Container and latching system

Abstract

A container is provided having a base and a lid. The lid can be rotated about a hinge from a closed configuration to an open configuration and can be secured via one or more latch assemblies. The latch assemblies can include a latch body, a locking member, a biasing member, and an actuating member. Additional features of the container can include a handle and strength enhancing features. The base and the lid can also feature attachment points for various accessories. A carrying strap can be attached to the base of the container to allow a user to lift and carry the container. The container can also have wheels attached to the bottom portion and / or to one side of the sidewall structure. Further, in the example container with wheels, a handle can be attached to the side opposite the wheels. The lid can include a lid support member that can act as a modular panel to releasably secure items to the lid support member while also providing structural support to the lid.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing of related patent applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 123,746, filed December 16, 2020. U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 123,746 is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 828,282, filed March 24, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 16 / 006,344, filed June 12, 2018, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 518,358, filed June 12, 2017. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 839,311, filed April 3, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 735,013, filed January 6, 2020, claiming priority to both U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 788,886 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 788,888, filed January 6, 2019. U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 839,311 also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 830,203, filed April 5, 2019. The entire contents of all the applications cited above are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Various types of containers and latching systems exist. Containers can be used for food, beverages, and other materials or articles. Latching systems lock containers in a closed configuration. However, conventional containers and latching systems are often not very durable and may not be easy to use. For example, the container may not be strong enough to hold certain items, and may not be strong enough to keep items on top of the container. Additionally, some latching systems may be engaged in ways the user does not want to engage, and in other cases, these latching systems may not provide sufficient locking for the container. In such an arrangement, these and other defects may render the container and / or latching system virtually useless. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This summary is provided to introduce some concepts in a simplified form, which will be further described in the detailed embodiments below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a container comprising: (a) a base including: (1) a sidewall structure having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, wherein the sidewall structure has a first end and a second end; (2) a bottom portion connected to the first end of the sidewall structure; (3) an opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure opposite to the first end, wherein the opening is configured to allow access to an internal void formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion of the container; (4) a latch retainer extending from the sidewall structure, wherein the latch retainer has an upper surface, an inner surface and a lower surface; (b) a cap having an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein the cap is configured to cover the opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure when the container is in the closed configuration; and (c) a latch assembly having a locked position and an unlocked position. The latch assembly may include: (1) a latch body pivotally engaged with a cover; (2) a locking member slidably engaged with the latch body, the locking member being slidable between at least a first position and a second position, the locking member being configured to lock the cover in a closed configuration when the locking member is in the first position and to unlock the cover when the locking member is in the second position; (3) at least one biasing member engaged with the latch body and the locking member, the at least one biasing member biasing the locking member in the first position; and (4) an actuating member engaged with the latch body and configured to move the locking member from the first position to the second position, the actuating member including an actuating cylinder having a plurality of spaced-apart protrusions. When the latch assembly is in the locked position, a hook of the locking member may engage a latch retainer. The at least one biasing member may be laterally positioned between the plurality of protrusions. In some instances, the at least one biasing member may include two biasing members laterally positioned between the plurality of protrusions. The locking member may have at least one engaging member of one of the protrusions that contact the actuating cylinder. Furthermore, the at least one engaging member may include two engaging members spaced apart from each other, thereby forming an opening between the two engaging members. Each of the protrusions may have a substantially triangular shape. In some embodiments, the container may include a second latch assembly, wherein the second latch assembly may be located on the side of the container opposite to the latch assembly. Alternatively, the container may include a second latch assembly, wherein the second latch assembly may be located on the side of the container adjacent to the latch assembly.

[0006] Additional aspects of this disclosure may relate to a container comprising: (a) a base including: (1) a sidewall structure having a first side, a second side opposite to the first side, a third side between the first and second sides, and a fourth side opposite to the third side, the sidewall structure having a first end and a second end; (2) a bottom portion connected to the first end of the sidewall structure; and (3) an opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure opposite to the first end, the opening being configured to allow entry into the container via the sidewall structure. (a) an internal void formed by the structure and the bottom portion; (b) a first latch retainer extending from a second side of the sidewall structure; (c) a kick-out rib on the second side of the sidewall structure extending outward beyond the front surface of the first latch retainer; and (d) a second latch retainer extending from a third side of the sidewall structure, the second latch retainer having an upper surface, an inner surface, and a lower surface; and (e) a cap pivotally connected to the base by a hinge, wherein the cap has an open configuration and a closed configuration. The cap may be configured to cover the opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure when the container is in the closed configuration. The cap may have a plurality of latch assemblies, including a first latch assembly and a second latch assembly, wherein the first latch assembly and the second latch assembly each have a locked position and an unlocked position. When the first latch assembly is in the locked position, the first latch assembly can engage the first latch retainer. When the cap moves from the open position to the closed position, the kick-out rib can push the first latch assembly away from the base to prevent the first latch assembly from becoming stuck as the cap moves from the open configuration to the closed configuration. The kick-out rib may have an upper inclined surface extending outward and downward from the sidewall structure and a lower inclined surface converging at the upper inclined surfaces. A rounded edge may extend between the upper and lower inclined surfaces. When the cap is in the closed configuration, the kick-out rib can be fitted between a first protrusion of the sidewall structure and the first latch assembly. The base may also include a first inclined surface disposed adjacent to a first end of the first latch retainer and a second inclined surface disposed at a second end of the first latch retainer. The kick-out rib includes a first kick-out rib extending from the first inclined surface and a second kick-out rib extending from the second inclined surface.

[0007] Other aspects of this disclosure may relate to a container comprising: (a) a base including: (1) a sidewall structure having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, wherein the sidewall structure has a first end and a second end; (2) a bottom portion connected to the first end of the sidewall structure; (3) an opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure opposite to the first end, wherein the opening is configured to allow access to an internal void formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion of the container; (4) a pair of wheels connected to the second side of the sidewall structure; and (5) a handle assembly connected to the first side of the sidewall structure; and (b) a cap connected to the base, the cap having an open configuration and a closed configuration. The cap may be configured to cover the opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure when the container is in the closed configuration. The handle assembly may include: (1) a handle pivotally attached to a first side of a sidewall structure, (2) a main hinge plate pivotally attached to the handle, and (3) a secondary hinge plate pivotally attached to both the main hinge plate and the first side. The handle assembly may have: an extended configuration that allows a user to pull the container; and a nested configuration. In the nested configuration, the handle may be located within a recess on the first side of the sidewall structure. When the handle assembly is in the nested configuration, the upper surface of the handle may be arranged substantially parallel to the outward-facing surface of the first side. The handle may include a first handle end pivotally connected to the first side of the sidewall structure, a second handle end opposite the first handle end, and a handle body extending between the first handle end and the second handle end. The main hinge plate may be pivotally connected to the handle body at a location closer to the handle body than the second handle end. Furthermore, when the handle assembly is in a nested configuration, the secondary hinge plate may be located between the handle and a first side of the sidewall structure, and the secondary hinge plate may be located between the main hinge plate and a first side of the sidewall structure. Additionally, when the handle assembly is in a nested configuration, the secondary hinge plate and the main hinge plate may be substantially parallel to the upper surface of the handle. The sidewall structure may include a third side extending between the first and second sides and a fourth side opposite to the third side, wherein the third side includes a pair of tracks, and each of the tracks includes a cavity. The sidewall structure may also include a third side extending between the first and second sides and a fourth side opposite to the third side, wherein a first angle is formed at the intersection of the first and third sides, and a first angle support may extend inward from the first angle. The first angle support may include a cavity.

[0008] Additional aspects of this disclosure may relate to a container comprising: (a) a base including: (1) a sidewall structure having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, wherein the sidewall structure has a first end and a second end; (2) a bottom portion connected to the first end of the sidewall structure; (3) an opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure opposite to the first end, the opening being configured to allow access to an internal void formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion of the container; and (b) a cap connected to the base, wherein the cap has an open configuration and a closed configuration. The cap may be configured to cover the opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure when the container is in the closed configuration. A cap support member may be attached to the cap, wherein the cap support member may include: (1) a main wall having a front surface and a rear surface opposite to the front surface; (2) a peripheral wall connected to the main wall; and (3) a plurality of openings extending through the main wall, the openings being configured to receive strips for securing articles to the cap support member. The main wall may contact the inner surface of the cap at multiple locations, and the peripheral wall may contact the inner surface of the cap at multiple locations. Alternatively, the container may include a cap tie rod assembly extending between the base and the cap support member, wherein the cap tie rod assembly is pivotally attached to both the base and the cap support member. When the cap is in a fully open configuration, the cap tie rod assembly prevents the cap from closing. In some instances, the cap support member may include: (1) a front surface having a grid-like shape formed by a plurality of front ribs intersecting each other in a generally vertical orientation; and (2) a rear surface opposite the front surface, wherein a portion of the rear surface contacts the inner surface of the cap. The majority of the plurality of front ribs has openings. The rear surface may have a grid-like shape and may be formed by a plurality of rear ribs intersecting each other in a generally vertical orientation. The cap support member may further include an opening support rib extending behind each of a plurality of elongated openings. The cover support member may further include a plurality of connecting members located between the front and rear surfaces, and each connecting member is connected to and extends between the plurality of front ribs adjacent to the front ribs.

[0009] This disclosure relates to a strip for lifting a container, wherein the strip includes a base member having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and an elongated member extending between the first and second ends. The base member may be formed of a woven fibrous material. The strip may have a first end portion located at the first end, the first end portion having a first engaging member, wherein the first engaging member includes a first layered portion, and a second end portion located at the second end, wherein the second end portion includes a second engaging member having a second engaging member, which includes a second layered portion. The strip may also have a handle, the handle including a first opening and a second opening, wherein the elongated member extends through the first opening and the second opening. The base member may include a pair of overlapping regions arranged on both sides of the handle, wherein each overlapping region includes multiple layers of the base member and stitches the multiple layers together. The handle may be substantially centered along the entire length of the strip. Furthermore, both the first end portion and the second end portion include stitches connecting the first layered portion and the second layered portion. The suture of the first layer may be located at a fixed distance from the first end, defining an inner and outer portion of the first layer. The inner portion has a first length defined as the distance from the center line of the suture to the first end of the base member, and the outer portion has a second length defined as the distance from the center line of the suture to the end of the outer portion. The first length of the inner portion may be less than the second length of the outer portion. The base member may be a single integral member, and in some instances, the strip may have a variable width along the total length of the strip.

[0010] Other aspects of this disclosure describe a strap system for lifting a container, the container including a first side handle and a second side handle, the first side handle including a first elongated opening on a first side of the container, and the second side handle having a second elongated opening on a second side of the container opposite the first side, wherein the first elongated opening has a first opening width and the second elongated opening has a second opening width. The strap may include a base member having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, and an elongated member extending between the first and second ends, the base member having a strap width. The strap may also include a first end portion at the first end having a first engaging member including a first layered portion, and a second end portion at the second end, wherein the second end portion includes a second engaging member having a second layered portion. The strap may also include a handle having a first opening and a second opening opposite the first opening, wherein the elongated member extends through the first and second openings. The first end portion may extend through the first elongated opening, and the second end may extend through the second elongated opening and secure the strap to the container using a friction fit. The strap width of the base member at the first end portion may be greater than the width of the first elongated opening of the container. The strip width may be in the range of 1% to 10% larger than the width of the first opening. The first joining member may include an inner portion and an outer portion defining the first end portion at a fixed distance from the first end to the center line of the suture, wherein the inner portion has a first length defined as the distance from the center line of the suture to the first end of the strip, and the outer portion has a second length defined as the distance from the center line of the suture to the end of the outer portion, wherein the first length is less than the second length. The container may include a first recess offset below the first top surface of the first side handle, wherein the first recess has an inner recess portion extending from the first elongated opening toward the internal cavity of the container and an outer recess portion extending away from the first elongated opening in a direction away from the internal cavity of the container, and wherein the inner portion of the first end portion is received in the inner recess portion. The depth of the first recess may be greater than the thickness of the first end portion. A significant portion of the strip may extend below the first side handle.

[0011] Another aspect of this disclosure may relate to a method of attaching a strip to a container, the method comprising: (a) opening a cap from a base of the container, wherein the cap is rotatably coupled to the base; (b) inserting a first end portion of the strip into a first elongated opening in a first handle through the base, wherein the first end portion is inserted at a first acute angle to a first top surface of the first handle; (c) rotating a first inner portion of the first end portion onto the first top surface of the first handle; (d) rotating a first outer portion of the first end portion onto the first top surface of the first handle; (e) inserting a second end portion of the strip into a second opening in a second handle of the base, wherein the strip is inserted at a second acute angle to a second top surface of the second handle; (f) rotating a second inner portion of the second end portion onto the second top surface of the second handle; and (g) unfolding a second outer portion of the second end portion onto the second top surface of the second handle. In some instances, the method may further include: (a) placing a first inner portion into a first inner recess, wherein the first inner recess is offset below a first top surface of the first handle and extends from the first elongated opening toward the internal cavity of the container; (b) placing a first outer portion into a first outer recess, wherein the first outer recess is offset below a first top surface of the first handle and extends from the first elongated opening away from the internal cavity of the container; (c) closing the cap on the base; and (d) lifting the strip via a centrally located strip handle, wherein the base member of the strip extends around the first handle and contacts the outer surface of the first handle. The first acute angle may be between 1 degree and 55 degrees. The width of the first end portion may be greater than the width of the first elongated opening.

[0012] According to another aspect, a container is disclosed. The container may include: a molded base comprising: a sidewall structure having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a third side extending between the edges of the first and second sides, and a fourth side opposite the third side, the sidewall structure having a first end and a second end; a bottom portion connected to the first end of the sidewall structure and configured to support the container on a surface; and an opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure opposite the first end, the opening being configured to allow access to an internal void formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion of the container. The base may also include a latch retainer extending from the sidewall structure, wherein the latch retainer has an upper surface, an inner surface, and a lower surface. The container may also include a cap pivoting between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein the cap has a shape corresponding to the shape of the base and is configured to cover the opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure when the container is in the closed configuration. The hinge can be configured to attach the cover to the base, wherein the cover can rotate about the hinge from a closed configuration to an open configuration. The container may also include a latch assembly having a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0013] The latch assembly may include a latch body pivotally engaged with a cover, wherein the latch body has at least one engaging lug. The latch assembly may also include a locking member slidably engaged with the latch body, wherein the locking member is slidable between at least a downward position and an upward position. The locking member may be configured to lock the cover in a closed configuration when the locking member is in the downward position, and to unlock the cover when the locking member is in the upward position. Additionally, the latch assembly includes: a biasing member engaged with the latch body and the locking member, wherein the biasing member biases the locking member in the downward position; and an actuating member pivotally engaged with the latch body and the locking member, the actuating member being configured to move the locking member from the downward position to the upward position. The latch assembly can only move from the unlocked position to the locked position when the locking member is in the upward position. Another aspect of the latch assembly is that, when the latch assembly is in the locked position, at least one engaging lug of the latch body can engage with the lower surface of the latch retainer; and when the latch assembly is in the locked position, the hook of the locking member can engage with the upper surface of the latch retainer.

[0014] Other aspects of this disclosure may involve rotating the lid of the container from a closed configuration to an open configuration, which may include rotating the lid 90 degrees from the closed configuration. Additionally, the latch retainer may include a support rib extending from the outer surface of the base to the inner surface of the latch retainer, wherein the support rib may be centrally located relative to the upper surface of the latch retainer. The locking member may also include at least two hooks such that, when the latch assembly is in the locked position, the support rib is located between at least two hooks of the locking member. The base may also include at least one inclined surface adjacent to the latch retainer, such that the inclined surface extends downward at an angle away from the interface surface of the base. The at least one inclined surface forms an angle between 30 degrees and 60 degrees relative to the interface surface of the base. A gasket may be arranged in a groove formed in at least one of the base and the lid. As another feature, the base may also include a handle on each side of the container, wherein each handle is integrally formed with the base. The handle may have a curved profile below the outer surface of the handle, wherein the curved profile is formed by a plurality of ribs extending from one side of the sidewall structure to the inner surface of the handle.

[0015] Other aspects of this disclosure may relate to a container comprising: a base including: a sidewall structure having at least a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the sidewall structure having a first end and a second end; a bottom portion connected to the first end of the sidewall structure and configured to support the container on a surface; and an opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure opposite the first end, the opening being configured to allow access to an internal void formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion of the container. The base may also include a latch retainer extending from the sidewall structure, the latch retainer having an upper surface, an inner surface, and a lower surface. The container may also include a cap pivoting between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the cap having a shape corresponding to the shape of the base and being configured to cover the opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure when the container is in the closed configuration. A hinge may be configured to connect the cap to the base, and the cap may rotate about the hinge from the closed configuration to the open configuration, and a latch assembly has a locked position and an unlocked position. The latch assembly may include: a latch body pivotally engaged with a cover, wherein the latch body has at least one engaging lug; and a locking member engaged with the latch body, wherein the locking member is movable between a downward position and an upward position. The locking member may be configured to lock the cover in a closed configuration when the locking member is in the downward position, and to unlock the cover when the locking member is in the upward position. The latch assembly may also include: a biasing member engaged with the latch body and the locking member, wherein the biasing member biases the locking member in the downward position; and an actuating member pivotally engaged with the latch body and the locking member, wherein the actuating member is configured to move the locking member from the downward position to the upward position.

[0016] Additional aspects of this disclosure may relate to a base portion of a container including a plurality of tabs positioned along an inner surface of an internal cavity. Each of the plurality of tabs may extend from one of the inner surfaces and includes an upper support surface and an opening, wherein the opening of each tab has an elongated shape. The upper support surface may be located in an upper region of the internal cavity of the base, or at a height greater than fifty percent of the height of the internal cavity. Additionally, the base may include a pair of tracks positioned on at least an inner surface of at least one sidewall, wherein the track pair is positioned on at least an inner surface of at least two sidewalls. Similarly, the cap may include a plurality of clips positioned along an inner surface of the cap, wherein each clip includes an engaging member and an elongated opening, wherein the elongated opening of each of the plurality of tabs may have a width substantially the same as the elongated opening of each clip. The container may also have: a gasket disposed in a groove formed in at least one of the base and the cap; and a channel integrally formed with an outer surface of the base, wherein the channel extends around the entire outer surface of the base.

[0017] Other aspects of this disclosure may relate to a container comprising: a base having: a sidewall structure having at least a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the sidewall structure having a first end and a second end; a bottom portion connected to the first end of the sidewall structure and configured to support the container on a surface; and an opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure opposite to the first end, wherein the opening allows access to an internal void formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion of the container. The container may also include a lid pivotally between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the lid having a shape corresponding to the shape of the base and configured to cover the opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure when the container is in the closed configuration. The container may also include a latch assembly having a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the latch assembly includes a latch body pivotally engaged with the lid and a locking member engaged with the latch body, wherein the locking member is movable between a downward position and an upward position. The locking member is configured to lock the cover in a closed configuration when the locking member is in the downward position, and is configured to unlock the cover when the locking member is in the upward position. The actuating member can pivotally engage with the latch body and also with the locking member, wherein the actuating member moves the locking member from the downward position to the upward position.

[0018] Other aspects of the container described in this disclosure may include a latch assembly having a biasing member that engages with a latch body and a locking member, wherein the biasing member biases the locking member in a downward position. The locking member is slidable between a downward position and an upward position, wherein the latch assembly can only move from an unlocked position to a locked position when the locking member is in the upward position. The latch body may include an inner surface and at least one engaging lug, wherein a base includes a latch retainer including an upper surface, an inner surface, and a lower surface. When the latch assembly is in the locked position, at least one engaging lug of the latch body may engage the lower surface of the latch retainer, and wherein when the latch assembly is in the locked position, the lower surface of the hook portion of the locking member engages the upper surface of the latch retainer. Attached Figure Description

[0019] This invention is illustrated by way of example and is not limited to the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals indicate similar elements, and in the drawings:

[0020] Figure 1A This is a top perspective view of a container based on one or more aspects described herein.

[0021] Figure 1B For one or more aspects described herein, wherein the cap is in the open position Figure 1A Top perspective view of the container.

[0022] Figure 2A For one or more aspects described herein Figure 1A Bottom perspective view of the container.

[0023] Figure 2B For one or more aspects described herein Figure 1A A side sectional view of the container.

[0024] Figure 3 For one or more aspects described herein Figure 1A Top perspective view of the base portion of the container.

[0025] Figure 4A For one or more aspects described herein Figure 1A A bottom perspective view of a portion of the base of the container.

[0026] Figure 4B For one or more aspects described herein Figure 1A Top perspective view of the container handle.

[0027] Figure 4C This is a top perspective view of a portion of the handle according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0028] Figure 4D A side sectional view of a portion of the handle and container according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0029] Figure 5A For one or more aspects described herein Figure 1A Top perspective view of part of the lid of the container.

[0030] Figure 5B For one or more aspects described herein Figure 1A A top perspective view of a portion of the base of the container.

[0031] Figure 6A This is a bottom rear perspective view of a latch assembly according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0032] Figure 6B This is a top rear perspective view of a latch assembly according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0033] Figure 7A This is a top front perspective view of a latch assembly according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0034] Figure 7B This is a bottom front perspective view of a latch assembly according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0035] Figure 8 This is a rear perspective view of a latch assembly according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0036] Figure 9 This is a side sectional view of a latch assembly according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0037] Figures 10A to 10D A side sectional view of a latch assembly moving from a locked position to an unlocked position, according to one or more aspects described herein, is shown.

[0038] Figures 11A to 11C One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figures 10A to 10D A side sectional view of the latch assembly moving from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0039] Figures 12A to 12C A side sectional view of a latch assembly moving from a locked position to an unlocked position, according to one or more aspects described herein, is shown.

[0040] Figures 13A to 13C One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figures 13A to 13C A side sectional view of the latch assembly moving from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0041] Figure 14This is a top perspective view of a container based on one or more aspects described herein.

[0042] Figure 15 For one or more aspects described herein Figure 14 A side sectional view of the container.

[0043] Figure 16A For one or more aspects described herein Figure 14 A side sectional view of the container.

[0044] Figure 16B For one or more aspects described herein Figure 16A An enlarged view of a portion of the container shown.

[0045] Figure 17A A top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the container of FIG1, with the cap in the closed position, is shown according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0046] Figure 17B The image shows one or more aspects described herein in which the cap is in the open position. Figure 17A Top perspective view of the container.

[0047] Figure 18A This illustrates one or more aspects of the invention in which the cap is in the closed position. Figure 17A The front view of the container.

[0048] Figure 18B This illustrates one or more aspects of the invention in which the cap is in the closed position. Figure 17A The rear view of the container.

[0049] Figure 18C This illustrates one or more aspects of the invention in which the cap is in the closed position. Figure 17A A top view of the container.

[0050] Figure 18D This illustrates one or more aspects of the invention in which the cap is in the closed position. Figure 17A The bottom view of the container.

[0051] Figure 18E This illustrates one or more aspects of the invention in which the cap is in the closed position. Figure 17A The left-side view of the container.

[0052] Figure 18F This illustrates one or more aspects of the invention in which the cap is in the closed position. Figure 17A The right-side view of the container.

[0053] Figure 19A This illustrates one or more aspects described herein in which the cap has been removed. Figure 17A A top view of the base portion of the container.

[0054] Figure 19B One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 19A An enlarged view of the base portion of the container shown.

[0055] Figure 20A A bottom rear perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a latch assembly according to one or more aspects described herein is shown.

[0056] Figure 20B This shows one or more aspects of the subject matter in a locked position. Figure 20A A partial cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the latch assembly.

[0057] Figure 20C This shows one or more aspects of the subject matter in a locked position. Figure 20A A partial cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the latch assembly.

[0058] Figure 21 This shows one or more aspects of the document in the unlocked position. Figure 20A A partial cross-sectional view of the latch assembly.

[0059] Figure 22A One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 17A A side sectional view of the container.

[0060] Figure 22B This document illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Figure 17A An enlarged side sectional view of the container handle.

[0061] Figure 22C One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 17A A partial view of the bottom perspective of the container's handle.

[0062] Figure 23A One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 17A A partial top perspective view of the base portion of the container.

[0063] Figure 23B One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 23A A partial cross-sectional view of the partial top perspective view, showing Figure 17A The base of the container.

[0064] Figure 24AOne or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 17A Top perspective view of the inside of the container's lid.

[0065] Figure 24B One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 24A An enlarged view of the top perspective, showing Figure 17A Part of the container's lid.

[0066] Figure 25 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 17A A side view of the container.

[0067] Figures 26A to 26D One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 17A The container is in the top perspective view in the open position, with various accessories installed.

[0068] Figure 27A One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 17A Top perspective view of the container's attachments.

[0069] Figure 27B and Figure 27C For one or more aspects described herein Figure 27A Side sectional view of the attachment.

[0070] Figure 28 A partial top front perspective view of a carrying strap mounted on a container according to one or more aspects described herein is shown.

[0071] Figure 29 A partial top front perspective view shows a carrying strap partially mounted to a container according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0072] Figure 30 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 28 Top front perspective view of the carrying strap.

[0073] Figure 31 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 28 A top view of the carrying strap.

[0074] Figure 32 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 28 Bottom view of the carrying strap.

[0075] Figure 33 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 28 Front view of the carrying strap.

[0076] Figure 34 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 28 Side view of the carrying strap.

[0077] Figure 35 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 28 A top view of the alternative base component for the carrying strap.

[0078] Figures 36A to 36H One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 28 A top view of the alternative stitching options for the carrying strap.

[0079] Figure 37 The front and right perspective views of another exemplary container in a closed position are shown, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0080] Figure 38A One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 37 The container is in the open position, front and right perspective view.

[0081] Figure 38B One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 38A A magnified perspective view.

[0082] Figure 39 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 37 The container is in the open position, front and left perspective view, with various accessories installed.

[0083] Figure 40 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 37 An enlarged view of the container.

[0084] Figure 41 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 37 Front perspective view of the latch component of the container.

[0085] Figure 42 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 41 Rear perspective view of the latch assembly.

[0086] Figure 43 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 41 A front perspective view of the latch assembly, some of which have been removed.

[0087] Figure 44 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 41Rear perspective view of the latch assembly, some of which have been removed.

[0088] Figure 45 The front and right perspective views of another exemplary container in a closed position are shown, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0089] Figure 46 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 45 The container is in a closed position, front and bottom left perspective view.

[0090] Figure 47 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 45 The container is in the open position, front and right perspective view.

[0091] Figure 48 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 45 A top view of the base of the container.

[0092] Figure 49 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 48 A perspective view of the cross section along line 49-49 at the base.

[0093] Figure 50 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 48 A perspective view of the cross section along the base at 50-50 degrees.

[0094] Figure 51 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 47 A partial cross-sectional perspective view of the container along line 51-51.

[0095] Figure 52 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 47 A perspective view of the cross section of the container along line 52-52.

[0096] Figure 53 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 47 The container along Figure 47 Cross-sectional perspective view of centerline 52-52.

[0097] Figure 54A One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 47 Front perspective view of the container's lid support plate.

[0098] Figure 54B One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 54A Rear perspective view of the cover support plate.

[0099] Figure 54C One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 54A Enlarged view of the cover support plate.

[0100] Figure 55 A front view of a cover support plate with various attachments attached, according to one or more aspects described herein, is shown.

[0101] Figure 56 A front view of a cover support plate with various attachments attached, according to one or more aspects described herein, is shown.

[0102] Figure 57 The front and right perspective views of another exemplary container in the open position are shown, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0103] Figure 58 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 57 A partial front and right perspective view of an exemplary container.

[0104] Figure 59 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 57 A partial front and right perspective view of an exemplary container, some of which have been removed.

[0105] Figure 60 The front and left perspective view of another exemplary container in a closed position is shown, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0106] Figure 61 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 60 A partial front and left perspective view of the container, with some parts removed and the handle in a partially extended position.

[0107] Figure 62 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 60 A partial front and left perspective view of the container, with some parts removed and the handle in an extended position.

[0108] Figure 63 One or more aspects described herein are shown. Figure 60 A partial front and bottom left perspective view of the container, with some parts removed and the handle in an extended position.

[0109] Furthermore, it should be understood that the accompanying drawings may show the proportions of different components in a single embodiment; however, the disclosed embodiments are not limited to this particular proportion. Detailed Implementation

[0110] In the following description of various exemplary structures according to the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form part of the various exemplary structures and illustrate, by way of example, various exemplary devices, systems, and environments in which multiple aspects of the invention can be practiced. It should be understood that other specific arrangements of parts, exemplary devices, systems, and environments may be utilized, and structural and functional modifications may be made, without departing from the scope of the invention herein. Furthermore, while terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “side,” “rear,” etc., may be used in this specification to describe various exemplary structural features and elements of the invention, these terms are used herein for simplicity purposes, for example, based on the exemplary orientations shown in the figures or the orientations during conventional use. Additionally, the term “plural” as used herein means any number greater than 1, either separately or in combination, and may be up to an infinity if necessary. Nothing in this specification should be considered as requiring a specific three-dimensional dimensional orientation of the structure without departing from the scope of the invention. Additionally, the reader is advised that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0111] Generally, aspects of the present invention relate to containers and latching assemblies for containers. Depending on the aspects and embodiments, the containers and latching assemblies described herein can be formed from one or more of a variety of materials, such as metals (including metal alloys), polymers, and composites, and can be formed in a variety of configurations without departing from the scope of the invention. It should be understood that the containers and latching assemblies can comprise components made of several different materials. Furthermore, these components can be formed by various forming methods. For example, metal components can be formed by forging, molding, casting, stamping, machining, and / or other known techniques. Additionally, polymer components such as elastomers can be manufactured by polymer processing techniques, such as various molding and casting techniques and / or other known techniques.

[0112] The various figures in this application illustrate examples of containers and latching assemblies according to the invention. When the same reference numeral appears in multiple figures, that reference numeral is used consistently throughout this specification, and the figures always refer to the same or similar parts.

[0113] Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2AA perspective view of container 2 is depicted. In one example, container 2 may include a base portion 4 and a cap 5, which in some examples may be coupled together or, in some examples, may be non-destructively removably coupled together. The base portion 4 may be a structure forming a cavity for receiving articles, as will be discussed more fully herein. In some examples, the base portion 4 may be cubic or substantially cubic in shape. In other examples, the base portion 4 may be prismatic or substantially prismatic in shape (e.g., pentagonal prism, hexagonal prism, heptagonal prism, etc.). In still other examples, the base portion 4 may be substantially cylindrical or may have a substantially trapezoidal cross-section. Various other shapes may be used without departing from the invention.

[0114] The base portion 4 may include a sidewall structure 6 having a first side 8, a second side 10 opposite to the first side, a third side 12 extending between the edges of the first and second sides, and a fourth side 14 opposite to the third side. The sidewall structure 6 may also have a first end 16 and a second end 18. The sidewall structure 6 may also include a bottom portion 20 connected to the first end 16 and configured to support the container on a surface such as a workbench, floor, vehicle cargo box, etc. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 20 may also and / or alternatively include one or more legs 22 that can support the container 2 on a surface such as a workbench, floor, vehicle cargo box, etc. The legs 22 may be integrally formed with the base 4 or may be attached to the base 4 after it has been formed.

[0115] The base portion 4 also includes a second end 18, which defines an opening 19 (e.g. Figure 3 (As shown). The opening 19 is configured to allow access to the internal void 21 of the container 2 formed by the sidewall structure 6 and the bottom portion 20.

[0116] Container 2 may include a cap 5. The cap 5 is pivotable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In some embodiments, rotating the cap from a closed configuration to an open configuration includes rotating the cap from the closed configuration by about 90°, or about 180°, or about 270°. As shown in FIG1, when the container is in use (e.g., when the container is in a closed configuration), the opening 19 may be covered by the cap 5. In some arrangements, when in a closed configuration, the cap 5 may be attached to the base 4 using a press-fit. Additionally or alternatively, other securing systems or devices may be used to secure the cap 5 to the base 4, as will be discussed more fully herein.

[0117] In some instances, the cap 5 can be hinged such that it is attached (removably or permanently) to the base 4 at hinge 37 and can rotate about hinge 37. Hinge 37 can be one of various types of hinges, including continuous piano hinges, double hinges, ball joint hinges, movable hinges, etc. These and various other hinge arrangements can be discussed more fully herein. Hinge 37 allows the cap 5 to be opened and rotated away from the base portion 4 to allow access to the gap defined by the base portion 4 (e.g., via opening 19). That is, hinge 37 facilitates rotation of the cap 5 from the closed configuration of the container (e.g., when the cap is in place covering the gap 21 formed by the base 4, as...). Figure 1A (as shown) to the open configuration (e.g., when the cap does not cover the gap 21 formed by the base 4, as shown) Figure 1B (as shown), and vice versa.

[0118] Additionally, in some arrangements, container 2 may include a gasket 30 or other sealing device. Gasket 30 may be disposed in cap 5 or base 4 and may help seal cap 5 and base 4 when cap 5 is in a closed configuration. For example, in one embodiment, container 2 may be manufactured such that it is dustproof after an 8-hour test and / or waterproof after a 30-minute test underwater at a depth of 1 meter. In some embodiments, container 2 may be able to achieve an IP67 rating (as specified by the International Electrotechnical Commission), which specifies that no dust ingress or complete protection from dust occurs after an 8-hour test, and that no harmful amount of water can ingress when the package is immersed in water (up to 1 m) under defined pressure and time conditions. The IP67 dust test lasts for 8 hours and is conducted in a vacuum. The IP67 water test lasts for 30 minutes, and the lowest point of the package should be 1000 mm below the water surface, or the highest point should be 150 mm below the water surface (whichever is deeper).

[0119] In some instances, (and such as) Figures 10A to 11C As most clearly shown, gasket 30 can be placed in a groove 32 formed in at least one of the base 4 and the cap 5 and extending around the periphery of at least one of the base 4 or the cap 5. Additionally, in some embodiments, container 2 may include a ridge 34 opposite to the base 4 or the cap 5 and extending around the periphery of the base 4 or the cap 5. Gasket 30 can be placed between the groove 32 and the ridge 34. Gasket 30 can help maintain a seal between the interior and exterior environments of container 2, and in some embodiments, can help maintain the temperature of the items contained within container 2. Figures 10A to 11C An example gasket arrangement is shown, although this and various other gasket arrangements can be used in any container described herein.

[0120] As shown, the gasket 30 is disposed in a groove or channel 32 in the cap 5. Alternatively, the gasket 30 may be disposed in a groove or slot formed in the base 4. When the cap 5 is in a closed configuration, a ridge 34 having a shape corresponding to the groove 32 can contact and compress the gasket 30, and help to seal the cap 5 and the base 4 when in a closed configuration. In some instances, the gasket 30 may be a conventional gasket with a substantially circular cross-section. In other arrangements, the gasket 30 may include strategically placed cutouts that reduce or eliminate the need for vents (e.g., vents to prevent the cap from locking).

[0121] In some arrangements, container 2 may include additional features, such as one or more handles 40. As shown, handles may be arranged on one or more portions of the sidewall structure 6, including on opposite sides such as sides 12 and 14. Figures 4A to 4D As most clearly shown, the handle 40 may consist of a first arm 42 and a second arm 44 connected by a gripping member 46. The handle 40 may be pivotable about a hinge 43 that passes through a portion of the sidewall structure 6 and through each of the first arm 42 and the second arm 44. The handle 40 may also include features for reducing handle movement when not in use and for reducing any possible rattling sounds associated with the handle. Figures 4A to 4D As shown, one or both of the arms 42 and 44 may include a protrusion 48 at the distal end of the arm. In some embodiments, the protrusion 48 may be attached to the resilient member 50. Figure 4A and 4D As most clearly shown, container 2 may include a recess 52. When handle 40 is not in use, protrusion 48 may be configured to lie within the recess 52 of sidewall structure 6. This reduces movement of handle 40 when not in use. However, when a user moves handle 40 for use, resilient member 50 may retract and allow the user to rotate handle outward.

[0122] In other instances, such as Figures 14 to 16B As shown, and as will be discussed in more detail below, the handle 240 may be integrally formed with the base portion 204, and in some instances, the handle may generally be an undercut formed in the sidewall structure of the base portion 204. In some instances, the undercut forming the handle may include a groove that extends substantially all or most of the way along the sidewall structure 6. This makes it easy to manufacture the base 204 with an integrally formed handle 240. In some instances, the integrally formed handle 240 may be flush with the outer surface of the base 204 to reduce the risk of breakage.

[0123] In some arrangements, container 2 may also include one or more latching assemblies 100. Latching assembly 100 may have a locked position and an unlocked position, and may be configured to lock lid 5 when lid 5 is in a closed configuration. Latching assembly 100 may include one or more portions integrally formed with or otherwise attached to container 2. Figure 5B and Figure 9 As shown, container 2 may include a latch retainer 70. The latch retainer 70 may extend from the sidewall structure 6 and may form a recess within container 2. The recess of the latch retainer 70 is shaped to receive a portion of the locking member 130, as will be discussed in more detail below. The latch retainer may have an upper surface 72, an inner surface 74, and a lower surface 76. As will be discussed in more detail below, when container 2 is in a closed configuration, latch assembly 100 may engage the latch retainer 70 to lock the cap 5 to base 4.

[0124] Container 2 may also include various features to improve the strength and / or functionality of container 2. For example, the container may include various protrusions, wherein certain portions of the base 4 and / or the cap 5 extend outwards further than other portions of the base 4 and / or the cap. Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2A and Figure 2B As most clearly shown, the base 4 may include a J-shaped protrusion or wall 59 forming a channel 60, the protruding wall 59 engaging with the sidewall structure 6. The channel 60 may surround the entire periphery of the container 2. The channel 60 may also include reinforcing members 62 at various locations within the channel. The channel 60 formed by the J-shaped wall 59 can increase the strength of the container 2 or the base 4. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 2B As shown, the J-shaped wall 59 allows the base 4 to be configured such that the inner surface 6A of the sidewall structure 6 is substantially smooth throughout the entire interior of the container 2. Thus, for example, substantially all or all of the inner surface 6A of the sidewall structure 6 (including one or all of the first side 8, the second side 10 opposite the first side, and the third side 12) can be substantially flat and / or smooth.

[0125] The container 2 may also include protrusions 64 and 66 surrounding the latch assembly 100 and handle 40, respectively. As shown in FIG. 4, the protrusions 64 and 66 may be present on one or both of the base 4 or the cap 5. The protrusions 64 and 66 may protrude to a height equal to or greater than that of the latch assembly 100 and handle 40, such that the latch assembly 100 and / or handle 40 do not extend outward beyond the protrusions 64 and 66 of the container 2. This protects the latch assembly 100 and / or handle 40 and reduces the risk of breakage of these components during use.

[0126] Container 2 may be configured to contain, store, or carry articles (including food, beverages, or any other items). Additionally or alternatively, without departing from the scope of this disclosure as described herein, container 2 may be configured to store materials in solid or gaseous form or a combination thereof.

[0127] Container 2 (which includes a base 4 and a cap 5) can be formed from various materials, such as one or more metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics, or fiber-reinforced materials. In some instances, the base 4 and cap 5 can be formed from a plastic material such as polyethylene, which is molded to form both portions. In some arrangements, as those skilled in the art will understand, injection molding or rotational molding processes are used to form the shell of the base 4 and cap 5 portions. However, without departing from the invention, various other types of molding or other manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, casting, forging, etc.) can be used to form container 2.

[0128] In some arrangements described herein, the base 4 and the cap 5 may include an outer surface or shell surrounding and enclosing the insulating portion (not shown), thereby forming an insulated container. The shell can typically be formed of various materials, such as one or more metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics, or fiber-reinforced materials. In some instances, the shell may be formed of a plastic material such as polyethylene, which is molded to form both the base 4 and cap 5 portions. In some instances, the insulating portion (not shown) may be formed of an insulating material exhibiting low thermal conductivity. For example, the insulating portion may be formed (or filled) of a polymer foam such as polyurethane foam. Additional or other insulating materials, including, for example, vacuum-insulated panels, may be used without departing from the invention. In some arrangements, as those skilled in the art will understand, injection molding or rotational molding processes may be used to form the shell of the base 4 and cap 5 portions. However, various other types of molding or other manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, casting, forging, etc.) may be used to form the container without departing from the invention.

[0129] More specifically, now referring to latch assembly 100, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9 As most clearly shown, the latch assembly 100 may include a plurality of components, including a latch body 102, a locking member 130, a biasing member 150, and an actuating member 170. As described above, the latch assembly 100 may include a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0130] The latch body 102 can be pivotally engaged with the cover 5. For example... Figure 9As shown, the latch body can be pivotally engaged with the cap 5 using hinge 106, but any suitable pivot engagement may also be used. In some embodiments, hinge 106 can be removably engaged with the container 2. If the latch assembly 100 is damaged, hinge 106 allows the user to easily remove and replace the latch assembly. The latch body 102 may include an inner surface 108 and an outer surface 110. The outer surface may be curved and generally may follow the curve of the sidewall structure 6 of the container 2. As discussed above, in some instances, the outer surface 110 of the latch body 102 may not extend beyond the outer edge of the sidewall structure 6 of the container 2. The inner surface 108 may also be curved and may also include several different features. An exemplary feature that may be included on the latch body 102 may be one or more engagement lugs 112. As will be discussed in more detail below, engagement lugs 112 may engage the container base 4 or the latch retainer 70 and may help press the cap 5 against the base 4 of the container 2.

[0131] The latch body 102 can also engage with the locking member 130. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the locking member 130 can be slidably engaged with the latch body 102, such that the locking member 130 can move along a substantially linear path between an upward position and a downward position. The locking member 130 can be configured to lock the cover 5 in a closed configuration when the locking member 130 is in the downward position, and to unlock the cover 5 when the locking member 130 is in the upward position.

[0132] like Figure 8 As shown, the locking member 130 can be movably engaged with one or more guide members 132, such that the locking member 130 can slide up and down along the guide members 132. In one embodiment, the locking member 130 may include holes 134 through the locking member 130, and the guide members 132 may also pass through these holes. The guide members 132 may engage with the latch body 102 at a top end 136 and a bottom end 138. Figure 8 As shown, the guide member 132 is a cylindrical rod, but any suitable shape that allows the locking member 130 to move upward and downward may also be used. For example, the shape of the guide member 132 may be prismatic or substantially prismatic (e.g., a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism, a heptagonal prism, etc.). In other instances, the latch assembly 100 may include other means suitable for allowing generally linear movement between the locking member 130 and the latch body 102, including, for example, a track.

[0133] like Figure 8As shown, the latch assembly 100 may further include at least one biasing member 150 that engages with the latch body 102 and the locking member 130. As will be discussed in more detail below, the biasing member 150 is configured to bias the locking member 130 in a downward position. The biasing member 150 may be a compression spring, such as... Figure 8 As shown, but in alternative embodiments it can be any suitable means for biasing the locking member 130 in a downward position.

[0134] The locking member 130 may include a base portion 140 and a hook portion 142 extending inwardly from the base portion 140. The hook portion 142 may include a lower surface 144 and an inwardly facing surface 146. Figure 9 As shown, when the latch assembly 100 is in the locked position, the lower surface 144 of the hook portion 142 of the locking member 130 can engage the upper surface 72 of the latch retainer 70, and the inward-facing surface 146 of the hook portion 142 can engage the inner surface 74 of the latch retainer 70. Additionally, when the latch assembly 100 is in the locked position, the upper surface of the engaging lug 112 can engage the lower surface 76 of the latch retainer 70.

[0135] The latch body 102 can also be pivotally engaged with the actuating member 170. The actuating member 170 can also be engaged with the locking member 130 and can be configured to move the locking member 130 from a downward position to an upward position. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the actuating member 170 can be pivotally engaged to the latch body 102 via a hinge 172 extending through the latch body 102 and the actuating member 170. The actuating member 170 may include a gripping portion 174, an actuating cylinder 176, and one or more arms 178 connecting the gripping portion 174 and the actuating cylinder 176. Figure 9 As shown, the gripping portion 174 is spaced a certain distance from the side wall structure 6 of the container 2. This distance allows the user to place their fingers between the side wall structure 6 and the gripping portion 174 to grip the back surface 180 of the gripping portion 174. Figure 9 As shown, the actuation cylinder 176 of the actuation member 170 can engage the locking member 130. The actuation cylinder 176 may include a protrusion 182. As will be discussed in more detail below, a user can pull forward the gripping portion 174 of the actuation member 170, causing the protrusion 182 of the actuation cylinder 176 to rotate and lift the locking member 130. This movement causes the latch assembly 100 to unlock and allows the cover 5 to move from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

[0136] Now for reference Figures 10A to 10DThe illustration shows the process of moving an embodiment of the latch assembly 100 from a locked position to an unlocked position, as well as a side sectional view of the latch assembly 100 and the portions of the base 4 and the cover 5. Figure 10A A latch assembly 100 in the locked position is depicted. Figure 10B The latch assembly 100 is depicted being unlocked. Figure 10C The latch assembly 100 in the unlocked position is depicted. Figure 10D The latch assembly 100 in the unlocked position is depicted, and anti-rotation features are shown. (As shown) Figure 10A As shown, in the locked position, the lower surface 144 of the hook 142 engages with the upper surface 72 of the latch retainer 70; the inward-facing surface 146 of the hook 142 engages with the inner surface 74 of the latch retainer 70; and the engagement lug 112 engages with the lower surface 76 of the latch retainer 70.

[0137] like Figure 10B As shown, the latch assembly 100 can be moved to the unlocked position by rotating the actuating member 170, as indicated by arrow 190. This rotation can be achieved by the user pulling the back surface 180 forward. Figure 10B As shown, as the actuator cylinder 176 rotates, the protrusion 182 engages the locking member 130 and raises the locking member 130. Figure 10C As shown, the latch assembly 100 is in the unlocked position. As the locking member 130 protrudes above the latch retainer 70, the latch assembly 100 is unlocked, and the latch body 102 (which includes the locking member 130 and the actuating member 170) can rotate forward as indicated by arrow 194.

[0138] Figure 10D The anti-rotation features of the latch assembly 100 and the container 2 are depicted. For example... Figure 10D As shown, the latch assembly 100 is in the unlocked position and has been released from... Figure 10C The position shown is rotated further outward. To limit rotation of the latch assembly 100, the latch body 102 may include a back surface 187 configured to engage the anti-rotation surface 7 of the lid once the user has rotated the latch assembly 100 away from the locked position to a certain extent. For example, the back surface 187 may be configured to engage the anti-rotation surface 7 when the user has rotated the latch assembly 100 at least 20 degrees, or at least 30 degrees, or at least 45 degrees, or at least 90 degrees from the locked position. Advantageously, this anti-rotation feature also allows the user to use the latch assembly 100 as a handle to open the container 2.

[0139] Now for reference Figures 11A to 11CThe diagram shows the process of moving the latch assembly 100 from the unlocked position to the locked position, as well as a side sectional view of the latch assembly 100 and the various parts of the base 4 and the cover 5. Figure 11A The latch assembly 100 in the unlocked position is depicted. Figure 11B A latch assembly 100 that is locking is depicted. Figure 11C A latch assembly 100 in the locked position is depicted.

[0140] like Figure 11A As shown, and as arrow 196 indicates, in one embodiment, the user can return the latch assembly 100 to the locked position by pressing the latch body 102. Figure 11B As shown, pressing the latch body 102 inward can cause the locking member 130 to contact the latch retainer 70, which may cause the locking member 130 to bulge upward as indicated by arrow 198. In other instances, in addition to pushing the latch body 102 inward, the user must also pull the actuating member 170 outward to move the latch assembly 100 to the locked position. In this embodiment, it is advantageous that the latch assembly 100 can only move from the unlocked position to the locked position when the actuating member 170 moves the locking member 130 to the upward position. This reduces the possibility of the container 2 locking accidentally.

[0141] like Figure 11C As shown, once the hook 142 has moved behind the protrusion of the latch retainer 70, the biasing member 150 can push the locking member 130 in a downward direction. Figure 11C As shown, the latch assembly 100 is in the locked position and the lower surface 144 of the hook 142 engages with the upper surface 72 of the latch retainer 70; the inward-facing surface 146 of the hook 142 engages with the inner surface 74 of the latch retainer 70; and the engaging lug 112 engages with the lower surface 76 of the latch retainer 70. When in the closed position, the latch assembly 100 is positioned such that the cap 5 abuts against the base 4 of the container 2, thereby closing, securing, and / or sealing the container 2. Additionally, as the latch assembly moves from the unlocked position (… Figure 11A Move to the locked position ( Figure 11C The washer 30 is compressed between the cap 5 and the base 4 of the container 2. Therefore, when the latch assembly 100 is in the locked position, the washer 30 is compressed more than when the latch assembly 100 is in the unlocked position.

[0142] Figures 12A to 12C Depicting and Figures 10A to 10C The process shown is similar to that for moving the latch assembly 100 from the locked position to the unlocked position. Figures 13A to 13C Depicting and Figures 11A to 11CThe process shown is similar to that for moving the latch assembly 100 from the locked position to the unlocked position in some embodiments. In some embodiments, such as... Figures 10A to 11C As shown, after the user rotates the actuating member 170 outward, the actuating member can automatically return to its original position. Figure 10A The downward position is shown. However, in other embodiments, the actuating member can only move to the downward position when the user manually pushes the actuating member 170 inward. Additionally, in some embodiments, when the actuating member is in the downward position, the actuating member can extend further outward than the latch body 102.

[0143] The latch assembly 100 (which includes a latch body 102, a locking member 130, and an actuating member 170) can each be formed separately and can be formed from a material such as a plastic material or another suitable material that can be formed or molded into a desired shape. The latch assembly 100 can be made with sufficient dimensions, thickness, and construction material to withstand repeated stress cycles as the latch engages / disengages with the latch retainer 70 over time. The container described herein includes various features that ensure ease and efficiency in the manufacture of the container while providing durability and abrasion resistance.

[0144] Figures 14 to 16B Another example container 202 with latch assembly 100 is depicted, wherein similar reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements in container 2, but include reference numerals of the 200 series. Container 202 is substantially similar to container 2, therefore similar aspects of container 202 will not be discussed here. However, container 202 may differ from container 2. For example, container 202 includes handles 240, which may be integrally formed with base portion 204 in the sidewall structure of base 4. Figures 14 to 16B As shown, the one-piece handle 240 may be formed of and / or may include a portion of the J-shaped wall 259. Therefore, the one-piece handle 240 may include a portion of a channel 260 that extends around the periphery of the container 202.

[0145] Figures 17A to 26DAnother example container 302 with a latch assembly 400, discussed below, is depicted, wherein similar reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements in containers 2 and 202, but include reference numerals of the 300 series. Container 302 is substantially similar to containers 2 and 202, so similar aspects of container 302 will not be discussed here. However, container 302 may differ from containers 2 and 202. For example, container 302 includes handles 340 that may be integrally formed with the base portion 304 on each side 308, 310, 312, 314 of the sidewall structure 306 of the base portion 304. Additionally, container 302 may include a plurality of attachment points for positioning and supporting various attachments that can be attached to container 302. These attachment points will be described in more detail below.

[0146] like Figure 17B as well as Figure 19A and Figure 19B As shown, the base 304 may include a latch retainer 370. The latch retainer 370 may extend from the sidewall structure 306 and may form a recess within the base 304. The shape of the latch retainer 370 may be configured to receive part of the locking member 430, as will be discussed in more detail below. The latch retainer 370 may have an upper surface 372, an inner surface 374, a rib 375, and a lower surface 376. The rib 375 may extend from the sidewall structure 306 to the lower surface 376 of the latch retainer 370. Optionally, the rib 375 may also be connected to the upper surface 372 and lower surface 376 or the inner surface 374 of the latch retainer 370. The rib 375 may be substantially centrally located along the latch retainer 370. The rib 375 may provide structural support to the latch retainer 370 to improve durability. Alternatively, the latch retainer 370 may include a plurality of ribs 375 positioned on either side of the recess formed by the latch retainer 370 to provide additional support for the latch retainer 370. As will be discussed in more detail below, when the container 302 is in a closed configuration, the latch assembly 400 may engage the latch retainer 370 to lock the cap 305 to the base 304.

[0147] Additionally, the base 304 may include a plurality of ramps or tapered surfaces 371 located on either side of the latch retainer 370. The ramped surfaces 371 may be angled downwards from the interface surface 336 of the base 304, wherein the interface surface 336 may be substantially flat and may extend around at least three sides of the periphery of the base 304. When the container 302 is in the closed position, the interface surface 336 of the base 304 may contact the interface surface 335 of the cap 305. The ramped surfaces 371 may be angled downwards from the interface surface 336 at approximately 45 degrees, or in the range of 30 to 60 degrees, or in the range of 20 to 80 degrees. When the container 302 is closed, the ramped surfaces 371 may prevent the latch assembly 400 from jamming against the base 304, and as the cap 305 closes, the ramped surfaces may also contact the lower portion of the latch assembly 400 to push the latch assembly 400 out of the base when the cap 305 is closed, such as... Figure 21 As shown.

[0148] The base portion 304 may also include a plurality of engaging members 337 extending from the interface surface 336 of the base 304. The engaging members 337 may be positioned outside the ridge 334. The engaging members 337 may extend into recesses or cavities 339 on the cap 305. When the container 302 is in the closed position and when multiple containers are stacked or additional items are placed on top of the container 302, the interaction between the engaging members 337 and the recesses 339 can provide additional structural support to enhance the engagement between the cap 305 and the base 304. The base 304 may have any number of engaging members 337. For example, an exemplary embodiment shows four engaging members 337, but the base 304 may include two, three, five, or more engaging members. The number of recesses 339 on the cap 305 may be equal to the number of engaging members 337 and may be located on the cap 305 at positions corresponding to each engaging member 337 of the base 304. In an exemplary embodiment, the joining member 337 has a substantially square cross-sectional shape, but may also have any cross-sectional shape, such as a circle, triangle, or other polygon. The height of each joining member 337 may be less than or equal to the width of the joining member 337. Furthermore, although the joining member 337 and the groove 339 of the exemplary embodiment are located on the first side 308 of the container 302, the joining member 337 and the groove 339 may also be located on any side and embodiments may have them positioned on multiple sides.

[0149] As another feature, the base 304 may have a plurality of tabs 321 positioned along the inner surface 306A of the sidewall structure 306 of the base 304. For example, as Figure 17B and Figure 19AAs shown, tab 321A can be located at each corner of the sidewall structure 306. Additionally, tabs 321B and 321C can be positioned along the inner surfaces of the first side 308 and the second side 310. Tabs 321B and 321C can be positioned as follows: Figure 19A They are positioned relative to each other, such that they are aligned along the length of the first side 308. As shown... Figure 19A As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the internal portion may include eight tabs 321, with tabs 321A located at each corner, and tabs 321B and 321C positioned along the inner surfaces of sidewalls 308, 310. Tabs 321B and 321C may be substantially centrally located such that at least one tab 321B, 321C may be positioned near the centerline of container 302, but preferably on either side of the centerline. Alternatively, the tabs 321 may not be aligned with tabs 321 on opposite inner surfaces, but may have an alternating arrangement. Tabs 321 may provide attachment locations for various attachments, as discussed further below.

[0150] Each tab 321 may extend from the inner surface 306A of the sidewall structure 306 and may include an upper support surface 323, an opening 324 extending through the upper support surface 323, and a pair of side surfaces at either end of the tab 321. The upper support surface 323 of each tab may provide an engagement surface to support various attachments inside the container 302, such as the tray 500 discussed further below. The upper support surfaces 323 of the plurality of tabs 321 may be substantially coplanar with each other to allow the support surfaces 323 to hold attachments that may extend across the base 304 and be supported by the plurality of tabs 321. The upper support surface 323 of the tab 321 may be located in the upper region of the inner surface 306A, with a height greater than fifty percent of the height of the inner portion of the base portion. Alternatively, the upper support surface 323 of the tab 321 may be positioned at a height greater than sixty percent, or even greater than seventy percent of the height of the inner portion of the base portion. To minimize impact on the internal space, each tab 321 may have a low profile, such that each tab 321 extends from the inner surface by a distance of less than one inch, or less than 0.5 inches, or even less than 0.25 inches. Additionally, the opening 324 may have any shape, but is preferably elongated. The opening 324 may provide attachment points for strips or other attachment devices to further support various accessories.

[0151] Alternatively, a pair of tracks 326 may be positioned along at least two of the inner surfaces 306A of the sidewall structure 306. As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the pair of tracks may be located on each of the inner surfaces of the first side 308 and the second side 310. Each of the track pair 326 may be centrally located such that it is aligned with the track pair 326 on the opposing inner surface. Each of the tracks 326 may extend from the inner surface of the base 304 and may have a height extending along most of the height of the interior portion. To minimize impact on the interior space, each track 326 may have a low profile such that each track 326 extends from the inner surface 306A by a distance of less than one inch, or less than 0.5 inches, or even less than 0.25 inches. The track pair 326 may support a removable partition wall 510, which may also serve as a cutting board for dividing the interior of the container into two sections for better organization of the stored items. Each of the tracks 326 may have multiple stops or protrusions to securely hold the partition wall 510, thereby preventing the partition wall from moving and limiting any vibration.

[0152] Similar to the example container 302 discussed above, Figures 17 to... Figure 26D Embodiments may have integrally formed handles 340 positioned along each of the sidewalls 308, 310, 312, and 314. Each of the integrally formed handles 340 may be formed by and / or may include a portion of a J-shaped wall 359. Thus, the integrally formed handle 340 may include a portion of a channel 360 extending around the periphery of the container 302. Therefore, the example container 302 may include four handles 340. The handles 340 may be integrally formed with the base portion 304. In some instances, each handle 340 may be formed with an undercut and include a groove extending substantially all or most of the way along the sidewall structure 306. The integrally formed handle 340 may simplify the manufacturing process of the base 304. In some instances, the integrally formed handle may be flush with the outer surface of the base 304 to reduce the risk of breakage.

[0153] like Figures 22A to 22C As shown, each handle 340 may have a curved inner profile 345 to provide the user with an ergonomic and comfortable grip surface. The inner profile 345 of the handle may include a plurality of handle ribs 347 extending from the sidewall to the inner surface of the handle 340, wherein each handle rib 347 may have a curved profile such that the plurality of spaced-apart ribs 347 form the curved inner profile 345 of the handle 340. Each rib 347 may have a spacing between the ribs 347 that is less than the width of each rib 347. Alternatively, each rib 347 may have a spacing between the ribs 347 that is equal to or greater than the width of each rib 347.

[0154] Each handle 340 may have an opening 341 extending through a handle top surface 343, wherein each opening 341 may be aligned with an opening 349 of the cap 305. Thus, with the opening 341 of the handle aligned with the opening 349 of the cap 305, a strap or similar device is allowed to be positioned through the openings 341, 349 to anchor or fasten the container 302. Each opening 341, 349 may have an elongated shape and may all have substantially the same length and width. Therefore, these openings 341, 349 can provide the user with versatility regarding other operations, not just anchoring the container 302. To further facilitate anchoring or securing the container 302, the cap 305 may have a groove or channel 351 aligned with the opening 349 to provide a guiding surface for the strap to fasten the container 302. Alternatively, a clip 520 can be inserted through the opening 341 to provide additional positions for using hook-and-loop connectors to increase versatility of options, thereby retaining additional accessories, such as... Figure 23A and Figure 23B As shown.

[0155] The cap 305 of container 302 may also include a plurality of clips 315 positioned along the inner surface 309 of the cap 305. For example, as Figure 24A As shown, clip 315A may be centrally located on each of the inner surfaces 325, while a pair of clips 315B and 315C may be evenly spaced along each of the inner surfaces 327, 329. Each of the clips 315 may also extend onto or contact the lower inner surface 331 of the cover 305. Clips 315B and 315C may be aligned and positioned opposite each other. Figure 17B and Figure 24A As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the cover 305 may include six clips 315, although the cover 305 may include any number of clips 315. Alternatively, the multiple clips 315 may not be positioned opposite each other on the inner surface of the sidewall, but may have an interlaced arrangement. The clips 315 may provide attachment locations for various accessories such as nets or elastic cord nets 515 or straps 516, including additional hook points for securing any other items desired by the user.

[0156] Each clip 315 may extend from the inner surface of the cover 305 and may include an engaging member 317 and an opening 319 extending through the engaging member 317. The opening 319 may be elongated, or alternatively may have any shape. Additionally, the opening 319 of the clip 315 may have a similar width to the opening 324 of the tab 321. These openings 319 may provide attachment points for strips or other attachment devices to further support various accessories, such as... Figures 26B to 26D As shown.

[0157] As discussed above regarding cap 5, cap 305 may include a recess 332 for housing a gasket 330, wherein the recess 332 extends around the periphery of cap 305. The recess 332 may be located within the interface surface 335 of cap 305. The recess 332 may include a plurality of retaining members 333 extending from the sides of the recess 332, such as... Figure 24B As shown. The retaining member 333 can engage the washer 330 at multiple locations around the periphery of the recess 332 to secure the washer 330 within the recess 332. Each retaining member 333 may include at least one tapered surface such that the thickness of the retaining member 333 near its top is closer to the opening end of the recess 332 than the thickness of its central portion. Additionally, in some example embodiments, the container 302 may include a ridge 334 in its base 304, which opposes the recess 332 of the cap 305 extending around the periphery of the base 304. The ridge 334 may be located on the interface surface 336 of the base 304. When the cap 305 engages the base 304, the washer 330 may be positioned between the recess 332 and the ridge 334.

[0158] In some embodiments, the bottom portion 320 may also and / or alternatively include one or more feet 322 that can support the container 302 on a surface 1 such as a workbench, floor, vehicle cargo box, etc. The feet 322 may be formed separately from an anti-slip material such as rubber or elastomer and may be attached to the base 304 after formation. The height of the feet 322 can be considered a “low profile,” which allows the container 304 to slide along one of its edges when the container 302 is tilted at an angle greater than 15 degrees relative to the surface 1 supporting the container 302. Figure 25 As shown. Alternatively, the support leg 322 can be integrally formed with the base 304.

[0159] Figures 20A to 21 An example latch assembly 400 is depicted, wherein similar reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements in latch assembly 100, but include reference numerals of the 400 series. Latch assembly 400 is substantially similar to latch assembly 100, and therefore similar aspects of latch assembly 400 will not be discussed further herein. Figure 20A As shown, the latch assembly 400 may include multiple components, including a latch body 402, a locking member 430, a biasing member 450, and an actuating member 470. Similar to the latch assembly 100 discussed above, the latch assembly 400 may include a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0160] The locking member 430 may include a base portion 440 and a plurality of hooks 442 extending inwardly from the base portion 440. The plurality of hooks 442 may be spaced apart from each other by a gap 441. Each hook 442 may each include a lower surface 444 and an inwardly facing surface 446. Figure 20B As shown, when the latch assembly 400 is in the locked position, the lower surface 444 of each hook 442 can engage the upper surface 372 of the latch retainer 370, and the inward-facing surface 446 of each hook 442 can engage the inner surface 374 of the latch retainer 370. Furthermore, the ribs 375 of the latch retainer 370 can fit within the gaps 441 between each of the hooks 442, such as... Figure 20C As shown. Additionally, when the latch assembly 400 is in the locked position, the upper surface of the engagement lug 412 can engage the lower surface 376 of the latch retainer 370.

[0161] The latch body 402 may include a plurality of ribs 413 extending along an inner surface 408 from an upper portion toward the locking member 430. Each rib 413 may have a profiled height such that, as the rib extends toward the locking member 430, the height of each rib 413 in the upper region is lower than its height in the lower region. The ribs 413 help to reinforce the latch body 402 while reducing the overall weight of the latch assembly 400.

[0162] Similar to latch assembly 100, latch body 402 may also be pivotally engaged with actuating member 470. Actuating member 470 may also be engaged with locking member 430 and may be configured to move locking member 430 from a downward position to an upward position. Actuating member 470 may be pivotally engaged to latch body 402 via hinge 472 extending through latch body 402 and actuating member 470. Actuating member 470 may include gripping portion 474, actuating cylinder 476, and one or more arms 478 connecting gripping portion 474 and actuating cylinder 476, wherein actuating cylinder 476 may include protrusion 482. Protrusion 482 and actuating cylinder 476 may engage together along a substantially flat contact surface 483. To adequately support the actuating cylinder 476, the inner surface 408 of the latch body 402 in this region may be substantially parallel to the contact surface 483 to support the contact surface 483, thereby helping to support the actuating cylinder 476 and preventing the actuating member 470 from rotating rearward beyond the outer surface 410 of the latch body 402. Alternatively, the gripping portion 474 may include a ridge 475 extending along at least a portion of the length of the gripping portion 474 to further assist the user in gripping the gripping portion 474 without slipping.

[0163] As discussed above, the inclined surface 371 serves both to protect the latch assembly from getting stuck on the base 304 and to help position the latch assembly to properly engage the latch retainer 370.

[0164] Figures 26A to 26D illustrate a container 302 constructed with various accessories as described above. For example, Figure 26A An embodiment of a storage system is shown, which includes a container 302 and a mounted tray 500, wherein the tray 500 is supported by a plurality of tabs 321 and a partition wall 510 mounted between a pair of rails 326. Figure 26B It shows Figure 26A The system shown includes a mesh bag 515 attached to a clip 315 of a cap 305. Figure 26C Another embodiment of the storage system is shown, wherein container 302 includes two trays 500 supported by tabs 321 and a pair of utility strips 516 connected to clips 315 of cap 305 to provide multiple locations for a user to attach and organize any desired items into container 302. Figure 26D Another option is shown, in which the soft-edged storage bag 518 includes multiple zippered storage compartments. As discussed above, by providing multiple attachment points at the base and within the lid, the container 302 can be equipped with a variety of accessory options to provide a storage system, thereby offering users an organized storage solution.

[0165] Figures 27A to 27C Further details of the tray 500 are shown. The tray 500 may have a body 502 having a mounting surface 503 and a plurality of storage cavities 504. The storage cavities 504 may have any size and may be configured to have any number of cavities 504. For example, Figures 27A to 27C The exemplary embodiment shown includes three cavities, two of which are smaller than the third cavity. As another feature of the tray 500, the tray 500 may include a movable handle 505. The handle 505 can be... Figure 27B The unfolded position shown moves vertically to Figure 27C The tray 500 is shown in its retracted or stored position. In the extended position, the user can easily remove the tray 500 from the container 302, while in the retracted position, the tray 500 has a lower height profile or storage space. The handle 505 may have a U-shaped tubular structure with two ends 506 that engage in an opening 507 in the body 502 of the tray. Each end 506 of the tubular structure may have a tapered surface 508 that allows for mounting into the opening 507 and a retaining surface 509 to prevent the handle from being removed, and also provides a positive stop to limit the vertical movement of the handle 505.

[0166] As another option, such as Figures 28 to 3As shown in 6-H, a carrying strap 600 can be attached to container 302 to allow the user to easily lift and carry container 302. Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, the carrying strap 600 can be mounted by inserting the end portions 616 of each end 604, 606 into openings 341 on opposite side handles 340 of the base 304 of the container 302. The carrying strap 600 may include a base member 602 having a first end 604, a second end 606 opposite the first end 604, an elongated member 608 extending between the first end 604 and the second end 606, and a carrying strap 610. The first end 604 and the second end 606 may each have an end portion 616, which includes an engaging member 618 that facilitates securing the strap 600 to the handle 340 of the container 302 using a friction fit. As defined herein, the term "friction fit" may refer to a manner in which two components, when assembled together, are secured to each other solely by mechanical interference or mechanical contact generated by the two components. The handle 610 may include an opening 612 at each end 614 such that the elongated member 608 can extend through each opening 612.

[0167] like Figure 28 and 29As shown, a carrying strap 600 can be mounted to a container 302 by inserting one of the end portions 616 through an opening 341 of the handle 340 from below, wherein the end portion 616 can be rotated relative to the elongated member 608 onto the top surface 343 of the handle 340. As illustrated in the example, the side handle 340 may include a recess 342 offset below the top surface 343 receiving the engaging member 618. The engaging member 618 of each end portion 616 may include layered or folded portions 620. The elongated member 608 may fold onto itself and join together to form an inner portion 626 and an outer portion 628 of the engaging member 618. The folded portion 620 may include at least two layers of elongated members 608 and have at least one fold. As illustrated in the example, the folded portion 620 may include three layers of elongated members 608 and three folds. In other examples, the folded portion 620 may have more than three layers and three folds. The folded portion 620 can be joined using mechanical elements 622 such as stitches, grommets, or other methods of joining layers together known to those skilled in the art. In the illustrated example, the stitch 622 can be a reinforcing stitch, a lockstitch, or other stitches known to those skilled in the art. The stitch 622 can have a width of approximately 2 mm, or in the range of 1 mm to 3 mm, to provide sufficient strength to the joint. The stitch 622 can be located at a fixed distance 624 from the respective ends 604, 606 to the centerline 625 of the stitch 622, thereby forming an inner portion 626 and an outer portion 628. The joining member 618 can then be rotated relative to the elongated member 608 on either side of the stitch 622 to secure the strip 600 to the container 302. The reinforcing stitch 622 can also help increase the strength of the joint. Alternatively, the folded portion 620 can be joined using adhesives, tapes, or other methods known to those skilled in the art. Adhesives or tapes can be used alone or in combination with the stitch 622. Figure 28As shown, once the end portion 616 of the strip 600 extends through the top surface 343 of the handle 340, the engaging member 618 can rotate along the seam 622 such that the inner portion 626 can be accommodated in the inner recess portion 342A of the groove 342, and the outer portion 628 can be accommodated in the outer recess portion 342B of the groove 342. As described above, the seam 622 can be located at a fixed distance from the respective ends 604, 606, such that the inner portion 626 of the engaging member 618 has a shorter length than the outer portion 628. For example, the length of the inner portion 626 can be in the range of 60% and 66% of the length of the outer portion 628, or in the range of 55% and 70% of the length of the outer portion 628. The length of the inner portion 626 can be measured as the length of the engaging member 618 from the center line of the seam 622 of the engaging member 618 to its respective end. Similarly, the length of the outer portion 628 can be measured as the length of the joining member 618 from the center line of the seam 622 to the end 629 of the outer portion 628 located at the fold on the fold portion 620. For example, the length of the inner portion 626 can be approximately 7 mm, or in the range of 5 mm to 10 mm, and the length of the outer portion 628 can be approximately 11 mm, or in the range of 9 mm to 16 mm.

[0168] To enhance the frictional fit between the strip 600 and the opening 341, the elongated member 608 of the strip 600 may have a width at each end portion 616 greater than the width of the opening 341 on the handle 340. The width W1 of the elongated member 608 may be the distance from the first side 630 to the second side 632 of the elongated member 608, while the width W2 of the opening 341 may be measured as the through span between the smaller ends of the elongated opening 341. In some instances, the width W1 of the base member 602 may be approximately 5% larger than the width W2 of the opening 341, or may be in the range of 3% to 7% larger than the width W2 of the opening 341. The width W1 of the base member 602 may be a constant width, wherein the width W1 may be approximately 38 mm or in the range of 35 mm to 41 mm, or alternatively, the base member 602 may have a variable width, wherein... Figure 35 As shown, the width of the base member 602 may have a width in the central region extending through the handle 610 that is smaller than the width of the base member 602 at the end portion 616. In the illustrated example, the carrying strap 600 has a base member 602 with a constant width, and the elongated member 608 may be as follows: Figure 30 As shown, the handle 610 is curled or wrapped along its inner surface. This can result in the handle 610 having a width smaller than the width of the base member 602 at the end portion 616. In some instances, the width of the handle 610 can be in the range of 60% to 75% of the width of the base member 602 at the end portion 616.

[0169] As shown in Figures 28 and 29, to mount the strip 600 to the container 302, the first end 604 of the strip 600 can be inserted through an elongated opening 341 on the handle 340 located on the first side of the base 304 of the container 302. The end portion 616 extends through the opening 341 above the top surface 343, while most of the elongated member 608 remains below the handle 340. In some instances, the end portion 616 can be inserted through the opening 341 at an angle, whereby the end portion 616, when inserted into the opening 341, forms an acute angle with the top surface 343 of the handle 340. This acute angle can be in the range of 1 degree to 55 degrees. Next, the engaging member 618 can be rotated relative to the elongated member 608 such that the inner portion 626 of the engaging member 618 lies flat within the inner recessed portion 342A and the outer recessed portion 342B of the recess 342. The inner groove portion 342A may be the portion of the groove 342 extending from the elongated opening 341 into the internal void of the container 302, and the outer groove 342B may be the portion of the groove 342 extending from the elongated opening 341 away from the internal void of the container 302. The depth of the groove 342 may be greater than the thickness of both the inner portion 626 and the outer portion 328. Once the first end 604 of the strip 600 is engaged with the handle 340 on the first side of the base 304, the process is repeated by attaching the second end 606 of the strip 600 to the handle 340 on the second side of the base 304 opposite to the handle 340 to which the first end 604 is attached. For example, the second end 606 is inserted through the elongated opening 341 on the handle 340, which is located on the second side of the base 304 of the container 302, wherein the end portion 616 extends upward above the top surface 343, and most of the elongated member 608 is below the handle 340. Similar to the installation of the first end 604, a second end portion 616 can be inserted at end 606, wherein end portion 616, when inserted into opening 341, forms an acute angle with the top surface 343 of handle 340. This acute angle can be in the range of 1 degree to 55 degrees. Finally, the second engaging member 618 can be rotated relative to the elongated member 608 such that the inner portion 626 of engaging member 618 lies flat within the inner portion 342A and the outer portion 342B of recess 342. The strip 600 is then secured at both ends 604, 606 to their opposing handles 340 at base 304. Container 302 can be closed, and the strip 600 can be grasped by the user via strip handle 610 to lift container 302. When strip 600 is lifted, elongated member 608 can wrap around the outside of the bottom of handle 340 and contact the outer surface 346 of handle 340.

[0170] As described above, the carrying strap 600 may include a base member 602 having a first end 604, a second end 606, and an elongated member 608 extending between the first end 604 and the second end 606, and a handle 610. The handle 610 may be located substantially centrally along the total length L of the carrying strap 600. Furthermore, the strap 600 may include a pair of overlapping regions 634 arranged at a fixed distance from the end 614 of the handle 610. The overlapping regions 634 may include three layers of elongated members 608 that are folded and then joined together. In some instances, the overlapping regions 634 may include more than three layers. The overlapping regions 634 may be permanently joined using stitches 636, such as a box-x stitch extending near the periphery of the overlapping regions 634, having diagonal stitch regions extending between the corners of the stitches. The suture 636 may have a rectangular shape, such that the length of the box-x suture may be approximately 30 mm or in the range of 28 mm to 32 mm, and may have a width of approximately 34 mm or in the range of 32 mm to 38 mm.

[0171] As in Figures 28 to 34 Alternatives to the stitch 636 shown may be available in various shapes. For example, stitch 636 may take many forms, such as: (a) a regular or irregular backstitch that is substantially parallel to the webbing, such as in... Figure 36A (a) with reinforced box seams at the end closest to the crease, such as Figure 36B As shown; (c) reinforced with box-S stitching at the end closest to the crease, as shown. Figure 36C As shown; (d) a single reinforcement or a series of reinforcements substantially parallel to the fold arrangement, such as Figure 36D As shown; (e) regular or irregular backstitches that are substantially perpendicular to the webbing, such as in Figure 36E (f) such as Figure 36F As shown, the double W stitching pattern; (g) as Figure 36G As shown, the zigzag stitching pattern; and (h) as... Figure 36H As shown, circular or patterned reinforcement, where the patterned reinforcement can be any geometric shape, such as a triangle, quadrilateral, or shape containing more than four sides. Additionally, Figure 36H The reinforcement pattern can include different geometric shapes, such as having rectangular and triangular reinforcements together in the pattern.

[0172] In some instances, the overlapping areas 634 may be joined using stitching alone, or using adhesive, or a combination of stitching and adhesive. These overlapping areas 634 can provide additional strength to the carrying strap 600 while also keeping the handle 610 substantially centered along the length L of 600. The total length L of the carrying strap 600 may be long enough to allow the carrying strap to extend beyond the front side 308 or rear side 310 of the container 302 without obstructing the stacking of the second container 302 on top of the first container 302.

[0173] The handle 610 may be formed by winding a polymer around an elongated member 608, forming a smooth surface along the bottom side 638 and also having a slot 640 extending along the entire length of the handle 610 along the top side 642. Figure 33 As shown, the handle 610 may have a concave curvature on its bottom side 638. The base member 602 may be formed of woven fiber material or webbing. The woven fiber material or webbing may be a single integral component forming the base member 602 of the handle 600. In other examples, the base member 602 may be formed of multiple webbing or fabric strips. The strip material may be formed of nylon, polypropylene, polyester, or other polymer-based materials. The woven fiber material or webbing may be solution-dyed, piece-dyed, greige, or undyed.

[0174] Furthermore, as described above, the carrying strap 600 can be similarly mounted to container 202, or in alternative instances, the carrying strap 600 can include mechanical clips or similar mechanical structures to secure the carrying strap 600 to any of the containers 2, 202, and 302 described herein.

[0175] Figures 37 to 44 Another example container 702 with a latch assembly 800, discussed below, is depicted, wherein similar reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements in containers 2, 202, and 302, but include reference numerals of the 7XX series. Container 702 is similar to containers 2, 202, and 302 in many respects, and therefore similar aspects of container 702 will not be discussed here. Similar to the other containers disclosed herein, the cap 705 may be pivotally attached to the base 704. However, container 702 may differ from containers 2, 202, and 302. Figure 40 As shown, container 702, for example, includes a strip handle 780 attached to each end of container 702. Each strip handle 780 may be attached to a handle 740 on each end of container 702. Furthermore, container 702 may be larger than container 302 and may include multiple attachment points for positioning and supporting various attachments that can be mounted into container 702, such attachments being similar to... Figures 26A to 26D The accessory shown is installed in container 302.

[0176] Each strap handle 780 provides a flexible interface to allow a user to lift and move the container 702. Each strap handle 780 may include a strap portion 781 and a handle 782, wherein each end 783 of the strap portion 781 may have an overlapping area that forms an opening to receive a pin 784. To secure the strap handle 780 to the container 702, the pin 784 may extend through the opening in each end 783 of the strap portion 781 and be received in a U-shaped hook portion 785 disposed on either end of the handle 740. The strap portion 781 may be similar in material to the base member 602, and the handle 782 may be similar to the handle 610 of the carrying strap 600 described above.

[0177] Figures 41 to 44 Example latch assembly 800 is depicted, wherein similar reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements in latch assemblies 100 and 400, but include reference numerals of the 8xx series. Latch assembly 800 is similar to latch assemblies 100 and 400, and therefore similar aspects of latch assembly 800 will not be discussed herein. Figure 41 and Figure 42 As shown, the latch assembly 800 may include a plurality of components, including a latch body 802, a locking member 830, a biasing member 850, and an actuating member 870. Similar to the latch assemblies 100 and 400 discussed above, the latch assembly 800 may include a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking member 830 may be slidably engaged with the latch body 802 such that the locking member 830 can move along a substantially linear path between an upward or unlocked position and a downward or unlocked position. The locking member 830 may be configured to lock the cover 705 in a closed configuration when the locking member 830 is in the downward or locked position, and to unlock the cover 705 when the locking member 830 is in the upward or unlocked position. Alternatively, the latch assembly 800 may be configured such that the locking member 830 can be moved to an upward position corresponding to the locked position and can be moved to a downward position corresponding to the unlocked position.

[0178] The locking member 830 may include a base portion 840 and a plurality of hooks 842 extending inwardly from the base portion 840. The plurality of hooks 842 may be spaced apart from each other by a gap 841. Each hook 842 may each include a lower surface 844 and an inwardly facing surface 846. When the latch assembly 800 is in the locked position, the lower surface 844 of each hook 842 may engage the upper surface 772 of the latch retainer 770, and the inwardly facing surface 846 of each hook 842 may engage the inner surface of the latch retainer 770. In addition, a rib 775 of the latch retainer 770 may fit within the gap 841 between each of the hooks 842. Furthermore, when the latch assembly 800 is in the locked position, the upper surface of the engaging lug 812 may engage the lower surface 776 of the latch retainer 770. Similar to base 304, base 704 may include a plurality of ramps or tapered surfaces 771 located on either side of latch retainer 770. The ramped surfaces 771 may be angled downward relative to the interface surface 736 of base 704.

[0179] like Figure 41 As shown, the latch body 802 may include a plurality of ribs 813 along the inner surface 808 and may include a vertically oriented rib 813A located adjacent to the locking member 830. Ribs 813 may also include horizontally oriented ribs 813B that extend through a large portion or the entire inner surface 808. Furthermore, ribs 813C may be located below ribs 813B and extend intermittently through the inner surface 808 to act as vertical stops for the locking member 830 when it moves upward to the unlocked position. Ribs 813 may also help reinforce the latch body 802 while reducing the overall weight of the latch assembly 800. Ribs 813B may include a mount 814 supporting a guide member 832, from which the guide member 832 may be connected to the base 840 of the locking member 830. In some instances, the guide member 832 may extend through an opening in the base 840 of the locking member 830. A biasing member 850 may be arranged between the mounting member 814 of the latch body 802 and the base 840 of the locking member 830, and in some instances, a guide member 832 may cooperate with the biasing member 850 to allow smooth movement of the locking member 830 relative to the latch body 802. Figures 41 to 44 As shown in the example, the biasing member 850 may be a compression spring and the guide member 832 may have a cylindrical shape extending through an opening in the biasing member 850. Similar to latch assemblies 100 and 400, the biasing member 850 may be configured to bias the locking member 830 in a down position or a locked position. In alternative examples, the biasing member 850 may be any suitable means for biasing the locking member 830 in a down position. Figures 42 to 44As shown, each latch assembly 800 may include a pair of guide members 832 and a pair of biasing members 850.

[0180] Similar to latch assemblies 100 and 400, latch body 802 may also be pivotally engaged with actuating member 870. Actuating member 870 may engage with locking member 830 and is configured to move locking member 830 from a down or locked position to an up or unlocked position. Actuating member 870 may be pivotally engaged to latch body 802 via hinge 872 extending through latch body 802 and actuating member 870. In some instances, actuating member 870 may be slidably engaged with latch body 802. Actuating member 870 may include gripping portion 874, actuating cylinder 876, and one or more arms 878 connecting to gripping portion 874. Actuating cylinder 876 may include a pair of protrusions 882, each protrusion 882 engaging an engaging member 848 extending from the bottom surface of base 840 of locking member 830. Each protrusion 882 may have a substantially triangular shape, or in other instances, may have a different geometry. Each engaging member 848 may be spaced apart from each other, thereby forming an opening 849 between the bottom surface of the base 840 and the actuating cylinder 876. In some instances, the distance between the engaging members 848 (the distance through the opening 849) may be in the range of 30 mm to 40 mm. By spaced apart from each other, the latch 800 can be more robust and better able to remain closed during high-stress events such as drop impacts, as the load path through the latch 800 can be improved. A portion of each guide member 832 may extend into the opening 849 between the engaging members 848 of the locking member 830. Figure 43 and Figure 44 As shown, the biasing member 850 and the guide member 832 may be laterally positioned between a pair of protrusions 882. This arrangement of the protrusions 882 being located on the outer side and spaced apart from each other helps to improve the durability of the latch assembly 800 so that it remains in the locked position when subjected to different environmental stresses, such as large impact loads, such as being thrown into a corner of container 702. Similar to latch assemblies 100 and 400, when the actuating cylinder 876 rotates, the protrusions 882 contact and engage the engaging member 848 of the locking member 830, which raises the locking member 830. As the locking member 830 moves upward, the hook 842 disengages from the latch retainer 770, causing the latch assembly 800 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0181] Figures 45 to 56Another exemplary container 902 is shown, which may be similar in many respects to containers 2, 202, 302, and 702, but is described using similar reference numerals to refer to the same or similar elements in containers 2, 202, 302, and 702, but includes 9XX series reference numerals. Since container 902 is similar to containers 2, 202, 302, and 702 in many respects, similar aspects of container 902 will not be discussed here. For example, container 902 may include a strip handle 980, similar to a strip handle 780, at each end of the container. Container 902 may also include a plurality of latching assemblies 800, wherein the plurality of latching assemblies 800 may be located on adjacent sides of container 902. For example, container 902 includes three latching assemblies 800 on a front side 908 and a single latching assembly 800 on each side 912, 914 adjacent to the front side 908. The front side 908 may be longer than the right side 912 and the left side 914. However, container 902 may differ from containers 2, 202, 302, and 702. In particular, container 902 may be larger than containers 2, 202, 302, and 702 in length, width, and volume. Optionally, in some instances, containers 2, 202, 302, 702, and 902 may have a cover removably attached to the base, wherein latches may be arranged along each side of the body and the cover, such that the cover can be removed by unlocking the latches on all latches, such as latches arranged on the front side 908, the rear side 910 opposite the front side 908, the right side 912, and the left side 914 opposite the right side 912.

[0182] like Figure 45 and Figure 46 As shown, due to its large size, container 902 may include a pair of wheel assemblies 986 to assist a user in moving it easily. Wheel assemblies 986 may be attached to the bottom portion 920 of base portion 904 or to both the bottom portion 920 and the right side 912 of base portion 904. Wheel assemblies 986 may include wheel covers 987 and wheels 988, with each wheel 988 mounted before the wheel cover 987, which is mounted to base portion 904. Each wheel assembly 986 may be secured in a wheel recess 989 on base portion 904. Each wheel assembly 986 may be secured in the recess using at least one mechanical fastener.

[0183] The bottom portion 904 of container 902 may include a pair of tracks 926 positioned along at least two inner surfaces 906A of sidewall structure 906. Figures 47 to 49 As shown, the inner surface 906A may include two pairs of rails 926, which are arranged and aligned opposite to each other on each inner surface of the front side 908 and the rear side 910. Each pair of rails 926 may be spaced apart from each other, wherein each pair of rails may receive Figure 57The removable partition wall 525 is shown. The removable partition wall 525 for container 902 may be similar to partition wall 510, but larger to accommodate container 902. Each track 926 may also extend from the inner surface 906A of the sidewall structure 906 to the inner surface of the bottom portion 920. Furthermore, as shown... Figure 49 As shown, each track 926 may include a cavity 990 between the outward-facing surface 991 of each track 926 and the outward-facing surface of the sidewall structure 906 and / or the outward-facing surface of the bottom portion 920 of the container 902. The cavity 990 may be formed by a gas-assisted molding process when the base portion 904 is molded. The cavity 990 may allow each track 926 to have a substantially constant wall thickness. In some instances, the cavity 990 may have a length greater than its height, where the length is measured along the longest dimension of the container 902 and the height is measured in a top-to-bottom direction. The length of the cavity 990 may be approximately 3 times greater than the wall thickness of each track 926, or in the range of 2 to 4 times greater than the wall thickness of each track 926. The height of the cavity 990 may be within 1.5 to 2.5 times greater than the wall thickness of each track 926. As described above, track 926 can receive a removable divider, but can also act as a rib to structurally reinforce the sidewall structure 906 of container 902.

[0184] The base 904 may also include a plurality of tabs 921 similar to those discussed above, positioned along the inner surface 906A of the sidewall structure 906. For example, as Figure 48 As shown, tabs can be positioned along each inner surface 906A of the sidewall structure 906. Pairs of tabs 921 can be positioned opposite each other to support various attachments. Figure 48 As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the inner surface 906A may include twelve tabs 921; however, the number of tabs 921 may be more or less than twelve. Furthermore, the base 904 may include corner supports 992 at each corner of the inner surface 906A. Each corner support 992 may project inwardly from the inner surface 906A toward the internal cavity of the container 902. The corner support 992 may have an upper surface 993 that is substantially coplanar with the upper support surface 923 of each tab 921. These corner supports 992 may help support accessories, such as the tray 560 or other accessories, as needed. Figure 50As shown, each corner support 992 may include a cavity 994 located between the outward-facing surface 995 of the corner support 992 and the outward-facing surfaces of the sidewall structure 906 and the bottom portion 920. The cavity 994 may be formed using a gas-assisted molding process when the base portion 904 is molded similarly to the cavity 990. The cavity 990 allows each corner support 992 to have a substantially constant wall thickness. Furthermore, each corner support 992 may extend along most of the height of the base 904 and from the sidewall structure 906 to the inner surface of the bottom portion 920. The corner support 992 also helps to reinforce and strengthen the base 904.

[0185] In some instances, the track 926 and corner support 992 may be formed as an integral component with the sidewall structure 906. Alternatively, the track 926 and corner support 992 may be formed separately and use, for example, Polymer welding techniques such as bonding are used for permanent attachment, or adhesives or other permanent bonding techniques are used for attachment.

[0186] Similar to other containers disclosed herein, the cap 905 may be pivotally attached to the base 904. In some instances, the cap 905 may also have a cap support member 1000. The cap support member 1000 may be releasably or permanently attached to the inner surface 909 of the cap 905. A portion of the cap support member 1000 may contact the inner surface 909 of the cap 905 to provide additional flexural strength to the cap 905 during loading, such as when a heavy object is placed on top of the cap 905. Furthermore, the cap support member 1000 may act as a modular plate to allow various accessories 550 or other items to be releasably attached to the cap support member 1000 to allow easy user access to these items. Various accessories 550 may be secured to the cap support member 1000 using strips 1030 extending through openings in the cap support member 1000. Figures 55 to 56 As shown, various storage bags or other items can be releasably attached to the cap support member 1000 using the strip 1030.

[0187] like Figures 51 to 56As shown, the cap support member 1000 may include a main wall 1001 having a front surface 1002 formed by a plurality of front transverse ribs 1004 and a plurality of front longitudinal ribs 1006, wherein a large portion of the front transverse ribs 1004 and the front longitudinal ribs intersect each other in a generally perpendicular orientation, forming a mesh-like structure. The front surface 1002 may be substantially flat and have a mesh-like shape, wherein the front transverse ribs 1004 form wider portions on the front surface 1002 than the front longitudinal ribs 1006. The main wall 1001 may be connected to a peripheral wall 1008, wherein the peripheral wall 1008 may include holes 1010 to receive mechanical fasteners for attaching the cap support member 1000 to the cap 905. The main wall may also include a rear surface 1012 positioned opposite the front surface 1002, wherein the rear surface 1012 may be formed by a plurality of rear transverse ribs 1014 and a plurality of rear longitudinal ribs 1016. The rear surface 1012 may have a grid-like shape and may also be substantially flat and substantially parallel to the front surface 1002. Furthermore, the rear longitudinal ribs 1016 may be arranged in pairs 1018, spaced apart from each other, with greater space between adjacent pairs 1018 of the rear longitudinal ribs 1016. A portion of the rear surface 1012 may contact the inner surface 909 of the cap 905 to help provide additional support to the cap 905 when needed. Alternatively, the cap support member 1000 may have multiple contact members extending from the rear surface 1012 and contacting the inner surface 909 of the cap 905 to help provide additional support to the cap 905 when needed. These contact members may be rear ribs and / or bosses, which are releasably or permanently attached to the cap 905 using mechanical fasteners extending through the main wall 1001. The mechanical fasteners may be equidistant from each other or may be arranged in an asymmetrical pattern. Multiple connecting members 1020 may be located between the front surface 1002 and the rear surface 1012. Each connecting member 1020 may connect to and extend between adjacent pairs 1018 of adjacent rear transverse ribs 1014 and rear longitudinal ribs 1016. Each connecting member 1020 may also connect to and extend between adjacent front transverse ribs 1004 and adjacent front longitudinal ribs 1006. Each front rib 1004, 1006 may include a tapered region extending from the front surface 1002 to the adjacent connecting member 1020. In the illustrated example, the front lateral ribs 1004 and rear lateral ribs 1014 are oriented generally horizontally, while the front longitudinal ribs 1006 and rear longitudinal ribs 1016 are oriented generally vertically relative to the peripheral wall 1008. However, it is contemplated that the transverse ribs 1004, 1014 and the longitudinal ribs 1006, 1016 may be oriented at various angles relative to the edge of the peripheral wall 1008.Furthermore, the transverse ribs 1004 and 1014 can be oriented at various angles to their corresponding longitudinal ribs 1006 and 1016. In some instances, the front ribs 1004 and 1006 can be oriented at angles different from the rear ribs 1014 and 1016, while the rear ribs 1014 and 1016 are oriented toward each other.

[0188] Furthermore, a majority of the front transverse rib 1004 may have a transverse rib opening 1022 extending through the rib 1004. The transverse rib opening 1022 may be located between the front surface 1002 and the outward-facing surface 1024 of each connecting member 1020. In some instances, each of the front transverse ribs 1004 may have a transverse rib opening 1022. Each transverse rib opening 1022 may be elongated in shape and form a path guiding a strip 1030 through the rib opening 1022 to secure an article to the cap support member 1000. Similarly, a majority of the front longitudinal rib 1006 may have a longitudinal rib opening 1026 extending through the rib 1006. The longitudinal rib opening 1026 may be located between the front surface 1002 and the outward-facing surface 1024 of each connecting member 1020. In some instances, each of the front longitudinal ribs 1006 may have a longitudinal rib opening 1026. Each longitudinal rib opening 1026 may be elongated in shape and form a path to guide the strip 1030 through the longitudinal rib opening 1026 to secure the attachment 550 to the cap support member 1000. Multiple transverse and longitudinal rib openings 1022, 1026 form multiple paths to receive the strip 1030 in either the longitudinal or transverse direction to secure the attachment 550 to the cap support member 1000. To secure the attachment 550 to the cap support member 1000, the strip 1030 may be inserted into one of the transverse or longitudinal rib openings 1022, 1026, and then the strip 1030 may be wrapped around a portion of the attachment to be attached and secured to itself using a hook-and-loop connector or other type of connection. Alternatively, the attachment 550 may have an integral or detachable strip 1030 that can be guided through one of the rib openings 1022, 1026 to secure the attachment 550 to the cap support member 1000.

[0189] like Figures 57 to 59 Another form of the exemplary container 902 is shown, except that it has a cap support member 1100 instead of a cap support member 1000. Furthermore, Figures 57 to 59The container 902 may include a cap pull rod assembly 1140 and a kick-out rib 1170 as described below. Similar to other containers disclosed herein, the cap 905 may be pivotally attached to the base 904 via a hinge. In some instances, the cap 905 may also have a cap support member 1100. The cap support member 1100 may be releasably or permanently attached to the inner surface 909 of the cap 905. The cap support member 1100 may include a main wall 1102 having a front surface 1104 and a rear surface opposite to the front surface 1104. The main wall 1102 may be connected to a peripheral wall 1108, wherein the peripheral wall 1108 may include holes 1110 to receive mechanical fasteners 1112 to attach the cap support member 1100 to the cap 905. The main wall 1102 may contact the inner surface 909 of the cap 905 at multiple locations. For example, the main wall 1102 may include rear ribs or bosses extending from the rear surface to contact the inner surface 909 of the cap 905 and help support the cap 905. These rear ribs and / or bosses may be releasably or permanently attached to the cap 905 using mechanical fasteners 1112 extending through the main wall 1102. Figure 58 As shown, the mechanical fasteners 1112 may be spaced equidistant from each other or arranged in an asymmetrical pattern. The cap support member 1100 may provide additional flexural strength to the cap 905 during loading, such as when a heavy object is placed on top of the cap 905.

[0190] Multiple openings 1114 extend through the main wall 1102. These openings are configured to receive strips or other components for securing articles (such as storage bags 540) to the cap support member 1100. The openings 1114 may have an elongated shape. In some instances, the openings 1114 may have a rectangular shape, with a length that is two or three times the width. Furthermore, opening support ribs 1116 may extend through each opening 1114. The opening support ribs 1116 may extend behind each opening 1114 and may be spaced a predetermined distance from the rear surface 1106, thereby forming a gap 1118 between the edge 1120 of the opening support rib 1116 and the end 1122 of the opening 1114 to guide the strip of articles attached to the cap support member 1100. The gaps 1118 may be arranged near both ends 1122 of the openings 1114. Additionally, the cap support member 1100 may be used to allow for... Figures 55 to 56 The various accessories 550 or other items shown, such as in Figure 57 Storage bag 540 shown.

[0191] Alternatively, container 902 may have a cap lever assembly 1140 extending between base 904 and cap 905 to prevent cap 905 from accidentally closing when it is in a fully open configuration (i.e., cap 905 is oriented approximately perpendicular to base 904). Cap lever assembly 1140 may be a telescopic assembly that automatically locks into a rigid structure when cap 905 is opened to a fully open configuration. Cap lever assembly 1140 may require user activation of release mechanism 1142 to allow cap 905 to close. Cap lever assembly 1140 may be pivotally attached to cap 905 and base 904 to allow lever assembly 1140 to fold into a storage configuration when cap 905 is in a closed configuration. Cap lever assembly 1140 may be positioned near the right side 912 of sidewall structure 906. Alternatively, the cap pull rod assembly 1140 may be arranged on the left side 914 of the sidewall structure 906. Although shown in container 902, a similarly arranged cap pull rod assembly 1140 may be included in any container described herein.

[0192] As described above, container 902 may include a plurality of latching assemblies 800 positioned on cap 905 to engage latch retainers 970 positioned on the front side 908 and sides 912, 914 of sidewall structure 906. When cap 905 is pivotally connected to base 904 via a hinge, cap 905 may open in a similar arcuate motion as it pivots about the hinge. To ensure that the latching assemblies 800A arranged on sides 912, 914 do not restrict and / or inhibit the opening or closing of cap 905, sides 912, 914 of the sidewall structure may include kick-out ribs 1170. Similar to bases 304 and 704, base 904 may include a plurality of ramps or tapered surfaces 971 located on either side of latch retainer 970. The ramped surfaces 971 may be angled downwards with respect to interface surface 936 of base 904. The inclined surface 971 may include a first inclined surface 971 at a first end of an adjacent latch retainer 970A and a second inclined surface 971 at a second end of an adjacent latch retainer 970A. The kick-out rib 1170 may extend from the sides 912, 914 of the sidewall structure 906, or as... Figure 59 As shown, one or both of the inclined surfaces 971 located on either side of the latch retainer 970A may extend. A kick-out rib 1170 may be arranged on the outer portion of the inclined surface 971. The kick-out rib 1170 may push the latch assembly 800A away from the base 904 to prevent the latch assembly 800A from becoming locked when the cover 905 moves from an open configuration to a closed configuration, or when the cover 905 moves from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

[0193] As described above, each latch assembly 800 can be pivotally engaged with the cover 905 using a hinge or latch pin 806. When the latch assembly 800 is in the locked position, each latch assembly 800 can engage the latch retainer 970. Each latch retainer 970A can be disposed on sides 912 and 914 of the sidewall structure 906 and may include an upper surface 972, an inner surface, and a lower surface 976. In some instances, a kick-out rib 1170 may extend from the inclined surface 971 and may be disposed on opposite ends of the inclined surface 971. The inclined surface 971 may have the same characteristics as the inclined surface 371 described above. As shown in the examples illustrated, the kick-out rib 1170 may extend from the upper portion of the inclined surface 971 or may extend from the edge of the interface surface 936 of the base 904. Each kick-out rib 1170 may extend outward beyond the front surface 977 of the latch retainer 970. Each kick-out rib 1170 may have an upper inclined surface 1172 extending outwardly and downwardly from the inclined surface 971 and a lower inclined surface 1174 converging toward the upper inclined surface 1172. In some embodiments, the upper inclined surface 1172 may be substantially coplanar with the inclined surface 971. A rounded edge 1176 may extend between the upper inclined surface 1172 and the lower inclined surface 1174. Furthermore, when the cover 905 is in a closed configuration, the kick-out rib 1170 may be positioned between the latch body 802 of the latch assembly 800 and the protrusion 964 of the sidewall structure 906.

[0194] When the cover 905 moves from the open configuration to the closed configuration, the kick-out rib 1170 can contact the latch assembly 800 and push the latch assembly 800 away from the sidewall structure 906 to prevent the latch assembly 800 from locking or to prevent the cover 905 from closing. Similarly, when the cover 905 moves from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the latch assembly 800 can contact the kick-out rib 1170 to prevent the latch assembly 800 from locking or to prevent the cover 905 from opening. The kick-out rib 1170 may exist only on the sides 912, 914 of the sidewall structure 906.

[0195] Although the cap support members 1000, 1100, cap tie rod assembly 1140 and kick-out rib 1170 are described with respect to container 902, these features can be arranged on any container described herein.

[0196] Figures 60 to 63An alternative version of container 902 is shown, which, in addition to the strip handle 980, includes a handle assembly 1050 that allows a user to ergonomically manipulate container 902. The handle assembly 1050 provides assistance when container 902 is tilted to a rolling position and the end opposite the wheel 988 leaves the container's resting surface. The handle assembly 1050 can be attached to side 914 of sidewall structure 906, which is arranged opposite side 912 including wheel assembly 986. A user can grasp handle 1052 to lift side 914 upwards, transferring the weight of container 902 to wheel 988 and allowing the user to pull container 902. The handle assembly 1050 can have: an extended configuration that allows the user to pull container 902; and a nested configuration in which the handle assembly 1050 is located within a recess 996 on side 914. When the handle assembly 1050 is in a nested configuration, the upper surface 1058 of the handle 1052 can be substantially parallel to the outward-facing surface of the side 914.

[0197] The handle assembly 1050 may include a handle 1052 pivotally attached to side 914, a main hinge plate 1054 pivotally attached to handle 1052, and a secondary hinge plate 1056 pivotally attached to both main hinge plate 1054 and side 914. Handle 1052 may include a first handle end 1060 pivotally connected to side 914 of sidewall structure 906, a second handle end 1062 opposite to the first handle end 1060, and a handle body 1064 extending between the first handle end 1060 and the second handle end 1062. The first handle end 1060 may have a pair of engaging members 1066 received in a U-shaped hook portion 985 on either end of handle 940. The engaging members 1066 may be pivotally connected to the U-shaped hook portion 985 using a pin. The main hinge plate 1054 can be pivotally connected to the handle body 1064 at a position closer to the first handle end 1060 than the second handle end 1062. The main hinge plate 1054 and the secondary hinge plate 1056 can be nested together such that when the handle assembly 1050 is in the nested configuration, the main hinge plate 1054 is positioned between the handle 1052 and the secondary hinge plate 1056, and the secondary hinge plate 1056 is located between the main hinge plate 1054 and the side 914. A spring and a damper can be connected between the main hinge plate 1054 and the secondary hinge plate 1056 to bias the handle assembly 1050 into the nested position. Furthermore, when the handle assembly 1050 is in the nested configuration, the secondary hinge plate 1056 and the main hinge plate 1054 are substantially parallel to the handle 1052. As previously described, when container 902 is equipped with hinged handle assembly 1050, side 914 may include a recess 996 extending a large portion of the height of side 914 to allow handle assembly 1050 to be nested within recess 996.

[0198] The handle body 1064 may include at least one gripping opening 1068 extending through the handle body 1064 to allow a user to easily grip the handle 1052. In some instances, the handle body 1064 may include multiple gripping openings 1068 to allow a user to grip the handle body 1064 flexibly. Each opening 1068 may extend through a substantial length of the handle body 1064 and may have the same width or different widths. As shown in the illustrated example, each opening 1068 may be located closer to the first handle end 1060 than the second handle end 1062 on the handle body 1064. The main hinge plate 1054 may be attached to the handle body 1064 rearward of the openings 1068 (closer to the second handle end 1062 than the openings 1068).

[0199] also, Figures 60 to 63 The handle assembly 1050 is shown from Figure 60 The nested configuration shown is transformed to Figures 62 to 63 The extended position in the middle. Figure 61 A handle assembly 1050 in a partially extended condition is shown, wherein the handle 1052 is slightly raised and the main hinge plate 1054 forms an acute angle with the secondary hinge plate 1056. Figures 62 to 63 The handle assembly 1050 in an extended configuration is shown. When the handle 1052 is fully extended, the main hinge plate 1054 can form an acute angle with the secondary hinge plate 1056. The hinge plates 1054 and 1056 can be used to limit excessive rotation of the handle 1052, while also providing additional strength to the handle assembly 1050.

[0200] The cap support member 1000 and handle assembly 1050 can be formed from a polymeric material, which can be a filled or unfilled polymer. For example, the polymeric material can be PC-ABS (polycarbonate-acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer), polyethylene, or other similar materials. Furthermore, the cap support member 1000 and handle assembly 1050 can be manufactured using polymer processing techniques, such as various molding and casting techniques and / or other known techniques. Alternatively, the cap support member 1000 and handle assembly 1050 can be formed from a metallic material, such as aluminum alloy, magnesium alloy, or other metallic materials with a density less than 3 g / cc. As another option, container components such as the cap, body, cap support member, and handle assembly can include a structural foam having a composite polymer material with a low-density foam core and a higher-density polymer skin.

[0201] According to one aspect, a container is disclosed. The container may include: a molded base comprising: a sidewall structure having a first side, a second side opposite to the first side, a third side extending between the edge of the first side and the edge of the second side, and a fourth side opposite to the third side, the sidewall structure having a first end and a second end; a bottom portion connected to the first end of the sidewall structure and configured to support the container on a surface; and an opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure opposite to the first end, the opening being configured to allow access to an internal void formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion of the container. The container may also include: a latch retainer extending from the sidewall structure, the latch retainer having an upper surface, an inner surface, and a lower surface; a cap pivoting between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the cap having a shape corresponding to the shape of the base and configured to cover an opening formed at a second end of the sidewall structure when the container is in the closed configuration; and a hinge configured to connect the cap to the base, and the cap being rotatable about the hinge from the closed configuration to the open configuration. The container may further include: a latch assembly having a locked position and an unlocked position, the latch assembly comprising: a latch body pivotally engaged with a cap, the latch body having at least one engagement lug; a locking member slidably engaged with the latch body, the locking member being slidable between at least a downward position and an upward position, the locking member being configured to lock the cap in a closed configuration when the locking member is in the downward position and to unlock the cap when the locking member is in the upward position; a biasing member engaged with the latch body and the locking member, the biasing member biasing the locking member in the downward position; and an actuating member pivotally engaged with the latch body and engaged with the locking member, the actuating member being configured to move the locking member from the downward position to the upward position. The latch assembly can only move from the unlocked position to the locked position when the locking member is in the upward position. When the latch assembly is in the locked position, at least one engagement lug of the latch body can engage the lower surface of the latch retainer. When the latch assembly is in the locked position, the lower surface of the locking member engages the upper surface of the latch retainer.

[0202] Rotating the cap from a closed configuration to an open configuration may include rotating the cap 90° from the closed configuration. The container may include insulation within its sidewall structure. The container may include a second latch assembly. The container may include a gasket disposed in a groove formed in at least one of the base and the cap. The container may include a channel integrally formed with the outer surface of the base. The channel may extend around the entire outer periphery of the base. The container may also include at least one handle. The handle may include a first arm and a second arm, and each of the first and second arms may include a protrusion at its distal end.

[0203] According to another aspect, a container is disclosed. The container may include: a base comprising: a sidewall structure having at least a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the sidewall structure having a first end and a second end; a bottom portion connected to the first end of the sidewall structure and configured to support the container on a surface; an opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure opposite to the first end, the opening being configured to allow access to an internal void formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion of the container; and a latch retainer extending from the sidewall structure, the latch retainer having an upper surface, an inner surface, and a lower surface. The container may further include: a lid that pivots between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the lid having a shape corresponding to the shape of the base and configured to cover an opening formed at a second end of the sidewall structure when the container is in the closed configuration; a hinge configured to connect the lid to the base and the lid being rotatable about the hinge from the closed configuration to the open configuration; and a latch assembly having a locked position and an unlocked position. The latch assembly may include: a latch body pivotally engaged with a cover, the latch body having at least one engagement lug; a locking member engaged with the latch body, the locking member being movable between at least a downward position and an upward position, the locking member being configured to lock the cover in a closed configuration when the locking member is in the downward position and to unlock the cover when the locking member is in the upward position; a biasing member engaged with the latch body and the locking member, the biasing member biasing the locking member in the downward position; and an actuating member pivotally engaged with the latch body and the locking member, the actuating member being configured to move the locking member from the downward position to the upward position.

[0204] A locking member can slidably engage with a latch body, and the locking member can slide between a downward position and an upward position. The latch assembly can only move from an unlocked position to a locked position when the locking member is in the upward position. When the latch assembly is in the locked position, at least one engaging lug of the latch body engages the lower surface of the latch retainer. When the latch assembly is in the locked position, the lower surface of the locking member can engage the upper surface of the latch retainer. The container may also include a washer disposed in a groove formed in at least one of the base and the cap. The container may also include a channel integrally formed with the outer surface of the base, wherein the channel extends around the entire outer surface of the base. The container may also include at least one handle having a first arm and a second arm, wherein each of the first arm and the second arm includes a protrusion at a distal end of the arm.

[0205] According to another aspect, a latch assembly for a structure is disclosed. The structure can have an open configuration and a closed configuration, and includes: a first portion movable relative to a second portion; and a latch retainer engaged with the first portion. The latch assembly has a locked position and an unlocked position, and may include: a latch body pivotally engaged with the second portion; a locking member engaged with the latch body, movable between at least a downward position and an upward position, the locking member being configured to lock a cover in a closed configuration when in the downward position and to unlock the cover when in the upward position; and an actuating member pivotally engaged with the latch body and engaged with the locking member, the actuating member being configured to move the locking member from the downward position to the upward position.

[0206] The latch assembly may further include a biasing member that engages with the latch body and the locking member, biasing the locking member in a downward position. The locking member may slidably engage with the latch body and may slide between a downward position and an upward position. The latch assembly can only move from the unlocked position to the locked position when the locking member is in the upward position.

[0207] The latch body may include an inner surface, and the latch retainer may include an upper surface, an inner surface, and a lower surface. When the latch assembly is in the locked position, at least one engaging lug of the latch body may engage the lower surface of the latch retainer; and when the latch assembly is in the locked position, the lower surface of the hook of the locking member may engage the upper surface of the latch retainer.

[0208] The present invention has been disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various examples. However, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide examples of various features and concepts related to the present invention, and not to limit the scope of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications can be made to the above examples without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A container, the container comprising: Base, the base comprising: A sidewall structure having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, and having a first end and a second end; The bottom portion is connected to the first end of the sidewall structure; An opening is formed at the second end of the sidewall structure opposite the first end, the opening being configured to allow access to an internal void formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion of the container. A cap connected to the base, the cap having an open configuration and a closed configuration, the cap being configured to cover the opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure when the container is in the closed configuration, and A cap support member attached to the cap, wherein the cap support member includes: A main wall having a front surface and a rear surface opposite the front surface; a peripheral wall connected to the main wall; and a plurality of elongated openings extending through the main wall, the plurality of elongated openings being configured to receive strips to secure articles to the cap support member; and The main wall contacts the inner surface of the cap at a first plurality of locations, and the peripheral wall contacts the inner surface of the cap at a second plurality of locations.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the front surface of the main wall has a grid-like shape formed by a plurality of front ribs intersecting each other in a generally perpendicular orientation, and the plurality of elongated openings extending through most of the front ribs.

3. The container of claim 2, wherein the rear surface has a mesh-like shape and is formed by a plurality of rear ribs intersecting each other in a generally perpendicular orientation.

4. The container of claim 1, wherein the cap support member further comprises an opening support rib extending behind each of the plurality of elongated openings.

5. A container, the container comprising: Base, the base comprising: A sidewall structure having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, and having a first end and a second end; The bottom portion is connected to the first end of the sidewall structure; An opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure opposite the first end, the opening being configured to allow access to an internal void formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion of the container; and A cap connected to the base, the cap having an open configuration and a closed configuration, the cap being configured to cover the opening formed at the second end of the sidewall structure when the container is in the closed configuration, and A cap support member attached to the cap, wherein the cap support member includes: A main wall having a front surface and a rear surface opposite the front surface; a peripheral wall connected to the main wall; and a plurality of openings extending through the main wall, the plurality of openings being configured to receive strips to secure articles to the cap support member; and The main wall includes a plurality of contact members extending from the rear surface, wherein the plurality of contact members contact the inner surface of the cap.

6. The container of claim 5, wherein the front surface of the main wall is substantially flat and has a grid-like shape formed by a plurality of transverse ribs and a plurality of longitudinal ribs intersecting each other in a substantially perpendicular orientation.

7. The container of claim 6, wherein the plurality of transverse ribs form a wider portion on the front surface than the plurality of longitudinal ribs.

8. The container of claim 5, wherein the plurality of contact members are bosses releasably connected to the cap.

9. The container of claim 5, wherein each of the plurality of openings has a rectangular shape.

10. The container of claim 5, wherein the cap support member includes a plurality of holes configured to receive mechanical elements for attaching the cap support member to the cap.

11. The container of claim 5, wherein the base and the cap are formed of a molded polymeric material.

12. The container of claim 5 further includes a pair of wheels connected to the base.

13. The container according to claim 5, further comprising: A first latch assembly, having a locked position and an unlocked position, includes: A first latch body, the first latch body being pivotally engaged with the cover; and A first locking member is slidably engaged with the first latch body. The first locking member is slidable between at least a first position and a second position. The first locking member is configured to lock the cover in the closed configuration when the first locking member is in the first position, and is configured to unlock the cover when the first locking member is in the second position.

14. The container of claim 13, wherein the container includes a second latch assembly, wherein the second latch assembly is located on a side of the container adjacent to the side on which the first latch assembly is located.

15. The container of claim 14, wherein the base includes a handle positioned below the second latch assembly.

16. A cap for a wheeled container, comprising: A cap support member attached to the cap, wherein the cap support member includes: A main wall having a front surface and a rear surface opposite the front surface; a peripheral wall connected to the main wall; and a plurality of openings extending through the main wall, the plurality of openings being configured to receive strips to secure articles to the cap support member; and The main wall includes a plurality of contact members extending from the rear surface, wherein the plurality of contact members contact the inner surface of the cap; and The cap support member is configured to releasably secure one or more attachments to the cap support member via the plurality of openings.

17. The cap of claim 16, wherein the front surface of the main wall is substantially flat and has a grid-like shape formed by a plurality of transverse ribs and a plurality of longitudinal ribs intersecting each other in a substantially perpendicular orientation, and wherein the plurality of transverse ribs form a wider portion on the front surface than the plurality of longitudinal ribs.

18. The cap of claim 16, wherein the plurality of contact members are bosses releasably connected to the cap.

19. The cap of claim 16, wherein the front surface of the main wall is substantially flat and has a grid-like shape formed by a plurality of transverse ribs and a plurality of longitudinal ribs intersecting each other in a generally perpendicular orientation.

20. The cap of claim 16, wherein the cap support member includes a plurality of holes configured to receive mechanical elements for attaching the cap support member to the cap.

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