Reversible stacking mating interface

Abstract

A reversible locking plate and mating interface are provided for securing a first container relative to a second container in a stacked configuration in a stacking direction. The reversible locking plate includes: a planar body having a plurality of slots configured to receive respective portions of a first container; a hinge mechanism configured to rotate 180 degrees about a hinge axis; and at least one biasing member configured to apply a biasing force to the planar body in a first direction when the reversible locking plate is in the first orientation and to apply a biasing force to the planar body in a second direction when the reversible locking plate is in the second orientation. Actuation of the articulation mechanism may transition the reversible locking plate between a first orientation and a second orientation.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 622,937, filed on January 19, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 673,255, filed on July 19, 2024, the disclosures of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to storage containers, and more particularly, to a reversible mating mechanism for storage containers that are secured to each other in a stackable configuration. Background Art

[0004] Manual tools, power tools, and related accessories (such as light sources, batteries, tool heads, fasteners, etc.) may move frequently between storage spaces and work spaces. One aspect of accessibility is that the user can quickly store objects and remove or reposition objects from storage. Another aspect of accessibility is that the storage system can engage many objects through a standardized connection mechanism between the system and the objects. This can also allow the objects to engage the storage system at multiple locations. The storage system can also be used for expansion or augmentation.

[0005] However, existing storage systems for organizing tools and accessories for transport to a work site have many deficiencies. For example, open-volume and bag-style storage systems commonly used for transport may be chaotic and disorganized, without dedicated storage areas to hold each item in place. After transport to the "work site", the tool and accessory organization may be re-spread to create a usable work space. However, due to poor or non-existent organization solutions during transport, organization at the work site may also be difficult. In addition, mobile organization solutions for setting up a work site in a functional and usable work space may not be sufficient to provide easy functional access to tools and accessories while maintaining organization. For example, existing organization solutions (such as stackable containers) may only stack in a single stacking orientation. Thus, the user may not be able to arrange their storage solution in the exact orientation and position that provides optimal accessibility.

[0006] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for improved stackable storage systems. In particular, it would be advantageous to provide a stackable storage system that allows for multi-directional stacking. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Aspects and advantages of the invention in accordance with the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the technique.

[0008] According to one embodiment, a reversible locking plate is provided for securing a first container relative to a second container in a stacked configuration along a stacking direction. The reversible locking plate includes a planar body extending between a first side and a second side, a first raised button at the first side, a second raised button at the second side, and a plurality of slots configured to receive corresponding portions of the first container. The reversible locking plate further includes a hinge mechanism configured to rotate 180 degrees about a hinge axis and at least one biasing member. The at least one biasing member is configured to apply a biasing force to the planar body in a first direction when the reversible locking plate is in a first orientation and in a second direction when the reversible locking plate is in a second orientation. Actuation of the hinge mechanism causes the reversible locking plate to transition between the first orientation and the second orientation.

[0009] According to another embodiment, a mating interface is provided for selectively securing a first container relative to a second container in a stacked configuration along a stacking direction. The mating interface includes a protrusion located on one of the first container and the second container, the protrusion being spaced from a surface to form a gap that is open in a direction transverse to the stacking direction. The mating interface further includes a coupler movably mounted to the other of the first container and the second container, the coupler being movable between a first orientation and a second orientation and translatable between a first position and a second position in a direction transverse to the stacking direction. In the first position, a portion of the coupler is located within the gap, thereby preventing separation of the first container and the second container along the stacking direction. In the second position, the coupler is not positioned within the gap.

[0010] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the technology of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] A complete and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode of practicing the same for one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a first container and a second container stacked in a first orientation according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0013] Figure 1B is a perspective view of a first container and a second container stacked in a second orientation according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0014] Figure 2 is a partial side cross-sectional view of a first container and a second container stacked through a mating interface according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a reversible locking plate in a first orientation according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0016] Figure 3B is a perspective view of a reversible locking plate in a second orientation according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 4 is a top view of a storage container base according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 5 is a top view of a plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 6 is a top view of a hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 7 is a bottom perspective view of a hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a reversible locking plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 9 is a top view of a hinge mechanism of a reversible locking plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a rotary knob of a hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 11 is a top view of a storage container base according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0025] Figure 12 is a top view of a plate according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0026] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The term "exemplary" as used herein means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration". Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Further, each example is provided by way of explanation and not limitation of the technology. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made to the technology without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed technology. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield yet another embodiment. Accordingly, this specification is intended to cover such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. The detailed description uses numerical and alphabetical designations to refer to features in the drawings. The same or similar designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to the same or similar parts of the present invention.

[0027] As used herein, the terms "first", "second", and "third" are used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to denote the position or importance of individual components. Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents. Unless otherwise specified in the present invention, the terms "coupled", "fixed", "attached to", etc. refer to both direct coupling, fixing, or attachment and indirect coupling, fixing, or attachment through one or more intermediate components or features. As used herein, the term "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", "has", "having", or any other variation thereof is intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited to only those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or". For example, the condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or absent), A is false (or absent) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0028] Approximating terms, such as "about", "substantially", "approximately", or "essentially", include values within 10% greater than or less than the stated value. When used in the context of including an angle or direction, such terms include angles or directions within 10 degrees greater than or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, "substantially vertical" includes directions that deviate from the vertical direction by within 10 degrees in any direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise).

[0029] When used to describe a shape, the term "substantially" is used to describe an object having an overall appearance shape that may deviate slightly from the exact shape, such as including one or more protrusions or notches in the shape profile. For example, the term "substantially rectangular" can be used to describe an object having the overall appearance of a rectangle including two sets of parallel sides and four right angles, but may include one or more notches and / or protrusions along the parallel sides and / or slight variations in the right angles at the corners. For example, a rectangular shape with slightly rounded corners can be described as "substantially rectangular" as used in the present invention. As a further example, a "substantially lozenge" or "substantially rhombus" shape may have the characteristics of a lozenge or rhombus (a quadrilateral in which only opposite sides and opposite angles are equal), but may have additional smaller (e.g., shorter) sides inserted between the equal opposite angles and opposite sides.

[0030] Unless otherwise stated or limited, the terms "mounted", "connected", "supported" and "coupled" and their variants are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect mounting, connecting, supporting and coupling. Further, unless otherwise stated or limited, the terms "lower", "upper" and their variants are used extensively to describe the relative positions of elements in the illustrated embodiments.

[0031] Advantages, other advantages and problem solutions will be described below in connection with specific embodiments. However, advantages, advantages, problem solutions and any (one or more) features that may cause any advantage, advantage or solution to occur or become more prominent should not be construed as key, essential or necessary features of any or all claims.

[0032] Generally speaking, the present invention relates to a storage system having at least two stackable containers, and more particularly to a reversible locking plate for stackable containers, which enables stacking in a first direction and a second direction (e.g., opposite directions or orientations).

[0033] Now referring to the drawings, Figure 1A and Figure 1B a storage system 10 having a first container 12 and a second container 14 is shown. The first container 12 may also be referred to as the base container because it is the Figures 1A - 1B base or bottom in the stacking arrangement shown. The first container 12 includes a plurality of protrusions 16 extending upward from its upper surface 18. The first container 12 may have a front side 20. The front side 20 may include, for example, a handle, a locking mechanism (e.g., a latch) or other optional identification features. The second container 14 may be stacked on top of the first container 12 in the stacking direction (e.g., the vertical direction). The second container 14 may be stacked on top of the first container 12 in the Figure 1A first orientation shown. In the first orientation, the front side 22 of the second container 14 may be aligned with the first side 20 of the first container 12 (i.e., on the same side). Alternatively, the second container 14 may be alongFigure 1B The second orientation shown is stacked on top of the first container 12. In the first orientation, the rear side 24 (opposite the front side 22) of the second container 14 can be aligned (i.e., on the same side) with the first side 20 of the first container 12.

[0034] A mating interface is formed between the first container 12 and the second container 14 for selectively securing the first container 12 relative to the second container 14 in a stacked configuration along the stacking direction. Figure 2 A cross-section showing a portion of the mating interface is shown.

[0035] The second container 14 includes a base assembly 30 that forms the bottom portion of the container ( Figures 1A through 1B not visible in). Portions of the mating interface can be formed as part of the base assembly 30. The base assembly 30 includes a base 32 that can form the outermost surface of the bottom portion of the second container 14. The base assembly 30 can also include a reversible locking plate 70 coupled to the base 32.

[0036] As Figure 2 , Figure 3A and Figure 3B best shown in, the base 32 has an outer surface 34 facing the exterior of the second container 14 and an inner surface 36 opposite the outer surface 34. The bottom plate 38 of the base 32 can be surrounded by a sidewall 40 that extends around the perimeter 42 of the base 32. The sidewall 40 can extend in a direction generally perpendicular to the bottom plate 38. For example, the bottom plate 38 can be generally horizontal while the sidewall 40 can be generally vertical. In some aspects, the sidewall 40 can extend in the stacking direction. Portions of the sidewall 40 extend along the front side 22 and the rear side 24 of the container 14, respectively. Along the front side 22 and the rear side 24, the sidewall 40 can be interrupted by gaps 44. The gaps 44 can be disposed generally along the central portions of the first side 22 and the second side 24, respectively. As will be described in further detail, the gaps 44 can provide a passage for latches or buttons associated with the mating interface.

[0037] The bottom plate 38 can include at least one cavity or recess 46. For example, the (one or more) recesses 46 can extend toward the interior of the second container 14. As Figures 3A through 3B and Figure 4 shown, the bottom plate 38 can include a plurality (e.g., two) of recesses 46a having a complete geometric shape, and a plurality (e.g., four) of recesses 46b having a semi-geometric shape relative to the recesses 46a. The recesses 46a can be generally located at the center of the bottom plate 38, while the recesses 46b can be disposed closer to the perimeter 42 of the base 32, e.g., adjacent to the perimeter 42. In some aspects of the present invention, the recesses 46a and 46b can be arranged in a symmetric layout. For example, the recesses 46a and 46b can be symmetrically arranged about a first axis of symmetry Y. Additionally or alternatively, the recesses 46a and 46b can be symmetrically arranged about a second axis of symmetry X.

[0038] The outer surface 34 of the bottom 38 is configured to contact the upper surface of another container (e.g., the upper surface 18 of the first container 12), and at least one recess 46 is configured to receive at least one corresponding protrusion 16. The various complementary surfaces of the bottom plate 38 of the second container and the top of the first container 12 form at least a part of the mating interface between adjacent containers. The various complementary surfaces of the bottom plate 38 of the second container and the top of the first container 12 can also limit the relative movement of the first container 12 and the second container 14 with respect to each other in a direction parallel to the bottom plate 38 when stacked. In this way, the containers are more stable when stacked and are less likely to be disassembled during use and / or transportation.

[0039] The undercut 48 can extend along the perimeter of each recess 46. At least one tab 50 can couple each recess 46 to the bottom plate 38. In this way, each tab can terminate a part of the undercut 48, so that at least a part of the undercut 48 is closed in the stacking direction. For example, each undercut 48 can extend along the entire perimeter of each recess 46, except for each tab 50. Each tab 50 can extend in a direction generally parallel to the side wall 40 (e.g., in the stacking direction).

[0040] As Figure 4 best shown, an opening 52 can be formed through the bottom plate 38 from the outer surface 34 to the inner surface 36. The opening 52 can be generally located at the center of the base 32. For example, the opening 52 can surround the center point of the base 32. The opening 52 can be located between two recesses 46, e.g., between two recesses 46a. As will be described in further detail below, the opening 52 can have an oval shape, i.e., having a pair of opposite long sides and a pair of opposite rounded ends. The opening 52 can extend generally along an axis X. The axis X can generally bisect the base assembly 32. The axis X can also extend through the recess 46a and the gap 44.

[0041] Guide walls 54 can be provided on both sides of the opening 52 along the axis X. Each guide wall 54 can extend from the inner surface 36, e.g., in a direction generally perpendicular to the bottom plate 38. Each guide wall 54 can have a central portion 58 through which the axis X can extend and a side portion 60 offset from the central portion 58. As will be described in further detail below, the guide walls 54 can together form a brake 66 for receiving one or more components of the base assembly 30 and / or guiding one or more components of the base assembly 30 with respect to the base 32.

[0042] The base 32 may also include one or more guides 62 extending therefrom. For example, a plurality of guides 62 may extend from the inner surface 36 of the base 32. The guides 62 may extend in a direction generally perpendicular to the bottom plate 38, such as in a vertical direction. The guides 62 may have a generally cylindrical shape extending perpendicular to the bottom plate 38 or any other suitable shape. The guides 62 may be used to guide or limit movement of one or more components of the base assembly 30 relative to the base 32.

[0043] The base 32 may also include one or more ribs 64 extending upward from the inner surface 36. The one or more ribs 64 may serve as a support structure for the base 32 to maintain its shape and strength. For example, the base 32 may be molded as a single piece, and one or more ribs are typically provided in the molded structure to increase strength and support. In addition, the one or more ribs 64 may form a stop surface to guide or limit the movement of one or more components of the base assembly 30 relative to the base 32.

[0044] The base assembly 30 also includes a plate 70. The plate 70 may also be referred to as a reversible locking plate or coupler, because the plate 70 may be used to couple stacked containers together in a stacked manner to prevent the first container and the second container from separating in the stacking direction. The plate 70 includes a planar body 72. The plate 70 also includes a first raised button 74 and a second raised button 76. The first raised button 74 and the second raised button 76 may each extend from the planar body 72. For example, the first raised button and the second raised button 76 may extend from the planar body 72 in a substantially vertical direction. In addition, the first raised button and the second raised button 76 may each extend from the planar body 72 in a substantially lateral direction (e.g., along the axis X). The shape and size of the first raised button and the second raised button 76 may be designed to extend through the corresponding gap 44 of the side wall 40 of the base 32 when the plate 70 is operably coupled to the base assembly 30.

[0045] The planar body 72 of the plate 70 may have a plurality of holes extending therethrough. For example, a plurality of holes may be provided to allow portions of the base assembly 32 to extend through the planar body 72. The planar body 72 may have one or more polygonal openings 78 configured to receive the recess 46 of the base 30 therethrough. Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 5As shown, the planar body 72 may have two polygonal openings 78 to receive two corresponding protrusions 38a therethrough. Additionally, the planar body 72 may have a plurality of guide openings 80, each guide opening 80 configured to receive a corresponding one of the guides 62 therethrough. The guide openings 80 may each form a slot extending in a direction parallel to the axis X, for example, to permit relative movement between the plate 70 and the guides 62 in a direction parallel to the axis X. The central aperture 82 may extend through the planar body 72, for example, around the central point of the planar body 72. The central aperture 82 may be disposed between the polygonal openings 78. The central aperture 82 may be aligned with the axis X.

[0046] As Figures 3A through 3B shown, when the base assembly 30 and the plate 70 are operatively coupled, for example, the plate 70 rests on the inner surface 36 of the base 32, the plate 70 may move relative to the base 32 in a direction parallel to the axis X. For example, the plate 70 may translate along the axis X. The axis X may be transverse to the stacking direction of the containers 12 and 14.

[0047] The reversible locking plate 70 further includes a hinge mechanism 100. The hinge mechanism 100 may include a biasing member 102, such as a spring. The biasing member 102 may apply a biasing force to the plate 70 toward a first position. The first position may be an engagement position, i.e., when the storage containers 12, 14 are stacked, the locking plate 70 engages in a locking manner. In some embodiments, the biasing force applied by the biasing member 102 biases the locking plate 70 toward the first position regardless of whether the storage containers 12, 14 are stacked relative to each other.

[0048] The plate 70 may move (e.g., slide or translate) from the first position against the biasing force applied by the biasing member 102 to a second position. The second position may be a disengaged position, e.g., during the stacking or unstacking operation of the storage containers 12, 14, the locking function of the locking plate 70 is disengaged. For example, the first button 74 and / or the second button 76 may be moved in a direction against the biasing force, e.g., the first button 74 and / or the second button 76 may be pushed to move the locking plate 70 from the first position to the second position. When the plate 70 moves between the first position and the second position, each guide opening 80 may translate along the corresponding guide 62.

[0049] Figure 3A The locking plate 70 is shown in the first position and arranged in a first orientation. In the first orientation, the biasing member 102 may be oriented such that the biasing force on the locking plate 70 causes the first button 74 on the locking plate 70 to extend from the gap 44 to the first position along the front side 22. The first button 74 may be enabled to move the locking plate 70 from the first position to the second position.

[0050] Figure 3BShows a locking plate 70 in a first position and arranged in a second orientation. In the second orientation, the biasing member 102 can be oriented such that the biasing force on the locking plate 70 causes the second button 76 on the locking plate 70 to extend from the gap 44 along the rear side 24 to the first position. The second button 76 can be enabled to move the locking plate 70 from the first position to the second position. Thus, the second orientation can be described as a "reverse" orientation relative to the first orientation.

[0051] The hinge mechanism 100 can be configured to rotate relative to the planar body 72. The rotation of the hinge mechanism 100 can cause the locking plate 70 to transition between a first orientation ( Figure 3A ) and a second orientation ( Figure 3B ).

[0052] Figure 6 A top view of the hinge mechanism 100 with the biasing member 102 omitted is shown. The hinge mechanism 100 includes a biasing member housing 104 and a rotating member 106. The biasing member housing 104 can have a generally annular or circular body 108 and a biasing member track 110. The biasing member track 110 can extend through the circular body 108 and can project from the side surface of the circular body 108, for example, on one or both sides of the track 110. The track 110 can extend between a first end 112 and a second end 114 and can be configured to receive the biasing member 102 between the first end 112 and the second end 114. The track 110 can be surrounded by a side wall 116, which is configured to restrict the movement and / or placement of the biasing member 102. For example, a biasing member receiver 118 can be provided on the inner side of the side wall 116. For example, a biasing member receiver 118 can be provided at one end of the track 110 along the direction of the axis X.

[0053] The biasing member housing 104 can include alignment features 120. For example, the alignment features 120 can be provided on the inner side of the side wall 116 of the track 110. For example, the alignment features 120 can be provided at opposite ends of the track 110. The alignment features 120 can be configured to align with the rotating member 106, for example, through complementary engagement. Optionally, as Figure 6 shown, the biasing member track 110 can have a pointing shape 122 at one of its ends, which is configured to indicate the direction of the biasing member 102 to the user. The pointing shape 122 can be, for example, an arrow shape, a triangle, a V shape, or any other suitable shape that can indicate the direction to the user. The alignment features 120 can be provided at the same end of the track 110 as the pointing shape 122. In this regard, the user can determine whether the locking plate 70 is in the first orientation or the second orientation based on the pointing shape of the biasing member track 110.

[0054] As Figure 6As shown, the biasing member housing 104 may include an elongate opening 124 therethrough. The elongate opening 124 may extend generally within the biasing member track 110. For example, the elongate opening 124 may have an elongate dimension extending generally parallel to axis X. In some aspects of the present invention, the elongate opening 124 may form a translation channel to permit relative translational movement between at least a portion of the articulation mechanism 100, the base 30, and the plate 70.

[0055] The rotating member 106 may have a rotator 130 and an alignment body 132, the rotator 130 being configured to control rotation of the rotating member 106 and the alignment body 132 being configured to operatively couple with the biasing member housing 104. The rotator 130 may include an actuator 134 configured to be actuated by a user. For example, the actuator 134 may include a grip 136 configured to be gripped by a user's finger and / or tool (such as pliers) to rotate the rotator 130. The actuator 134 may optionally further include a groove 137, for example, along the grip 136 or a groove 137 different from the grip 136, the groove 137 being configured to receive a tool therein to rotate the rotator 130. The rotator 130 may rotate approximately 180 degrees in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. In some aspects of the present invention, the rotator 130 may rotate approximately 360 degrees in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Optionally, the rotator 130 may rotate approximately 360 degrees in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

[0056] The alignment body 132 of the rotating member 106 is configured to extend from the rotator 130, for example, in a generally vertical direction. In this manner, the alignment body 132 may be configured to extend into the biasing member track 110. At least a portion of the perimeter of the alignment body 132 may be configured to align with and / or contact the sidewall 116 of the track 110. The alignment body 132 may have a first side 138 configured to contact the biasing member 102 and a second side 140 configured to contact the alignment member 120 of the biasing member housing 104. For example, the second side 140 may have a receiver 142 configured to receive the alignment member 120. As Figure 6 shown, the receiver 142 may have a shape complementary to the alignment member 120.

[0057] A biasing member 102 (such as a coil spring) may be disposed within a biasing member track 110. For example, a first end of the biasing member 102 may be held in place relative to a biasing member receiver 118. The biasing member receiver 118 may be inserted into the biasing member 102 to hold the biasing member 102 in place against a sidewall 116. At an opposite end of the track, the biasing member 102 may contact a first side 138 of an alignment body 132. The biasing member 102 may be compressed (e.g., in a direction opposite the biasing direction) to be installed within the track 110. The biasing member 102 may be held in place, for example, by a biasing force exerted by the biasing member 102 between the sidewall 116, the biasing member receiver 118, and the first side 138 of the alignment body 132.

[0058] When the reversible locking plate 70 is assembled with the base assembly 30, the rotating member 130 is configured to be disposed along an outer surface 34 of the base 32. The rotating member 130 may be disposed along an outer side of an opening 52 of the base 32. In this regard, when assembling the container 14, a user may access the actuator 134. When moving the planar body 72 in a direction (e.g., translation) along the axis X, the rotating member 130 may be moved relative to the base 32 in the translation direction.

[0059] When assembling the reversible locking plate 70, an alignment body 132 of the rotating member 106 may extend through the opening 52 of the base 32 and a central hole 82 of the planar body 72. The alignment body 132 may rotate within the central hole 82. However, the alignment body 132 generally cannot move in either lateral direction within the central hole 82. When moving the planar body 72 in a direction (e.g., translation) along the axis X, the alignment body 132 may be moved in the translation direction. Thus, when moving the planar body 72 in a direction (e.g., translation) along the axis X, the alignment body 132 may move along the axis X within an elongated opening 124 of the biasing member housing 104. Similarly, when moving the planar body 72 in a direction (e.g., translation) along the axis X, the hinge mechanism 100 may be moved in a direction (e.g., translation) along the axis X within the opening 52 of the base 32.

[0060] In other aspects of the present invention, rather than being disposed generally centrally relative to the base 32 and the locking plate 70, the hinge mechanism 100 may be eccentrically disposed, e.g., eccentrically disposed relative to a first raised button 74 and a second raised button 76. Additionally or alternatively, as described in further detail below, the hinge mechanism 200 may be accessed from within the storage container. Compared to that described with respect to Figures 3A through 3B and Figure 4 the base and the locking plate may be modified to accommodate the modification of the hinge mechanism 200.

[0061] In Figures 8 through 12In the arrangement shown, the base 32 can be substantially the same as described above with respect to Figures 3A through 3B and Figure 4 except that the base 32 may not include the opening 52 between the recesses 46. Instead, the user can access the hinge mechanism 200 from within the storage container (e.g., above the locking plate 70), such that there is no need to provide an opening 52 through the base 32 for the hinge mechanism 200 to extend through.

[0062] The locking plate 170 can be provided together with the base 32. The locking plate 170 can be substantially similar to the locking plate 70, but instead of receiving the hinge mechanism between its polygonal openings, it can receive the hinge mechanism 200 towards the perimeter of the locking plate 170 and spaced from the axis X. However, the locking plate 170 includes polygonal openings 178 that are substantially the same in shape, guide openings 180 spaced from the axis X, and a first button 174 and a second button 176 disposed along the axis X. The locking plate 170 can also include a central portion 184 located between the polygonal openings 178, the central portion 184 having edges 184a and 184b respectively along the edges of the polygonal openings 178. The edges 184a and 184b can be disposed substantially perpendicular to the axis X and can be configured to abut the tabs 50 of the recesses 48 of the base 32 to limit the translation of the locking plate 170 in the direction of the axis X. In other words, the edges 184a and 184b limit the range of translational movement of the locking plate 170 when mounted on the base 32. The locking plate 170 also includes a housing 204 associated with the hinge mechanism 200, as described below.

[0063] The hinge mechanism 200 includes at least one biasing member 202, the biasing member 202 being configured to be located within the biasing member housing 204 of the locking plate 170. As Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, a first biasing member 202a and a second biasing member 202b parallel to the axis X can be provided at both ends of the hinge mechanism 200. The hinge mechanism 200 includes a biasing member housing 204 and a translation member 206. The biasing member housing 204 can have a generally polygonal body 208 and a biasing member track 210, and the body 208 has a shape similar to that of the translation member 206. The biasing member track 210 can pass through or extend along at least one side of the body 208 and can protrude from the side surface of the body 208, for example, on one or both sides of the track 210. The track 210 can extend between a first end 212 and a second end 214 and can be configured to receive the biasing member 202 between the first end 212 and the second end 214. For example, the first biasing member 202a can be received at the first end 212, while the second biasing member 202b can be received at the second end 214. The track 210 can be surrounded by a side wall 216, and the side wall 216 is configured to limit the movement and / or placement of the biasing member 202. For example, at least one biasing member receiver 218 can be provided on the inner side of the side wall 216. For example, biasing member receivers 218 can be provided at each end of the track 210 in a direction parallel to the axis X.

[0064] The biasing member housing 204 can include alignment features 220. The alignment features 220 can be provided, for example, on the inner side of the side wall 216 of the track 210. The alignment features 220 can be complementary shapes common to the translation member 206 and the biasing member housing 204, such as angled shapes. For example, as Figure 8 and Figure 9 shown, both the biasing member housing 204 and the translation member 206 include polygonal protrusions having edges parallel to the translation direction, edges perpendicular to the translation direction and extending from the track 210, and first and second angled edges extending between the corresponding perpendicular sides. In this way, the translational movement of the translation member 206 within the biasing member housing 204 is restricted.

[0065] The translation member 206 can have biasing member receivers 207. For example, the first biasing member receiver 207a can be configured to receive the first biasing member 202a, while the second biasing member receiver 207b can be configured to receive the second biasing member 202b. In this way, each biasing member 202 can be firmly received between the end of the track 210 and the translation member 206.

[0066] The articulated mechanism 200 includes a rotating member 230 (sometimes referred to as a knob) configured to translate a translation member 206 within a housing 204. The rotating member 230 may include a pin 232 extending therefrom, and the pin 232 is configured to be received by the translation member 206. The rotating member 230 may include an actuator 234 configured to be actuated by a user. For example, the actuator 234 may include a grip 236 configured to be gripped by a user's finger and / or a tool (such as pliers) to rotate the rotating member 230. The actuator 234 may optionally further include a groove, for example, along the grip 236 or a groove different from the grip 236, the groove being configured to receive a tool therein to rotate the rotating member 230.

[0067] The rotating member 230 can be rotated approximately 180 degrees in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. The rotation of the rotating member 230 can drive the translation member 206 to be biased to one side, such as to the first end 212 or the second end 214 of the track 210, through the pin 232. For example, the knob 230 can be rotated 180 degrees clockwise, driving the translation member 206 to be biased to the second end 214 of the track 210, compressing the second biasing member 202b slightly more than the first biasing member 202a, and causing the locking plate 170 to translate to the right. From this position, the knob 230 can be rotated 180 degrees counterclockwise to translate the locking plate 170 to the left (by being biased to the first end 212 of the track 210 and compressing the first biasing member 202a slightly more than the second biasing member 202b). When the knob 230 is rotated, the locking plate 170 translates to the right or left at the same rate as the translation member 206. The biasing members 202a and 202b hold the translation member 206 at an equilibrium point between the first end 212 and the second end 214. Depending on the position of the locking plate 170, the equilibrium point is slightly to the right or left of the center, i.e., slightly biased towards the first end 212 or the second end 214.

[0068] When the reversible locking plate 170 is assembled with the base assembly 30, the knob 230 can be configured to be located inside the base 32. In this regard, when the container 14 is assembled, the user can access the actuator 234 from inside the container 14. When the planar body 172 is moved (e.g., translated) in the direction of the axis X, the rotating member 230 can be moved relative to the base 32 in the translation direction. However, the inventors also envision other aspects of the present invention that incorporate Figure 6 the features of the rotating member 130 shown in, which extends outside the base assembly 30 having the eccentric articulated mechanism 200 described in the present invention.

[0069] Further aspects of the present invention are provided by one or more of the following embodiments:

[0070] A reversible locking plate for fixing a first container relative to a second container in a stacked configuration along a stacking direction, the reversible locking plate comprising: a planar body extending between a first side and a second side, a first raised button at the first side, a second raised button at the second side, a plurality of slots configured to receive corresponding portions of the first container; a hinge mechanism configured to rotate 180 degrees about a hinge axis; and a biasing member configured to apply a biasing force to the planar body in a first direction when the reversible locking plate is in a first orientation and in a second direction when the reversible locking plate is in a second orientation, wherein actuation of the hinge mechanism causes the reversible locking plate to switch between the first orientation and the second orientation.

[0071] The reversible locking plate according to any one or more embodiments, wherein the planar body is symmetric about a first axis of symmetry.

[0072] The reversible locking plate according to any one or more embodiments, wherein the first axis of symmetry extends through the first raised button and the second raised button.

[0073] The reversible locking plate according to any one or more embodiments, wherein the planar body is symmetric about a second axis of symmetry different from the first axis of symmetry.

[0074] The reversible locking plate according to any one or more embodiments, wherein the planar body, the first raised button, and the second raised button are formed as a single piece.

[0075] The reversible locking plate according to any one or more embodiments, wherein the hinge mechanism includes a rotating member configured to control the rotation of the hinge mechanism, the rotating member extending through a hinge hole in the planar body.

[0076] The reversible locking plate according to any one or more embodiments, the hinge mechanism includes a biasing member housing that is translatable relative to the rotating member along a first axis to allow compression and extension of the biasing member.

[0077] The reversible locking plate according to any one or more embodiments, wherein a biasing member coupler of the rotating member extends within a translation channel of the biasing member housing, wherein translation of the biasing member coupler in the first direction causes compression of the biasing member.

[0078] The reversible locking plate according to any one or more embodiments, wherein movement of the planar body in the first direction causes compression of the biasing member.

[0079] The reversible locking plate according to any one or more embodiments, wherein translation of one of the first raised button and the second raised button along the first axis causes translation of the planar body along the first axis.

[0080] A reversible locking plate according to any one or more embodiments, wherein the hinge mechanism is configured to rotate 360 degrees about the hinge axis, and optionally, wherein the hinge mechanism is configured to rotate 360 degrees about the hinge axis in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

[0081] A mating interface for selectively securing a first container relative to a second container in a stacked configuration along a stacking direction, the interface comprising: a protrusion located on one of the first and second containers, the protrusion being spaced from a surface to form a gap that is open in a direction transverse to the stacking direction; and a coupler movably mounted to the other of the first and second containers, the coupler being movable between a first orientation and a second orientation and translatable between a first position and a second position in a direction transverse to the stacking direction, in the first position, a portion of the coupler is located within the gap to prevent separation of the first and second containers along the stacking direction, and in the second position, the coupler is not positioned within the gap.

[0082] A mating interface according to any one or more embodiments, including a hinge mechanism rotatable 180 degrees about a hinge axis, wherein rotation of the hinge mechanism moves the coupler between a first orientation and a second orientation.

[0083] A mating interface according to any one or more embodiments, wherein the coupler is biased toward the first position by a biasing member.

[0084] A mating interface according to any one or more embodiments, wherein a tab terminates a portion of the gap such that a portion of the gap is closed along the stacking direction, and wherein the coupler is configured to engage and overlap the tab relative to the stacking direction in the first position.

[0085] A mating interface according to any one or more embodiments, wherein when the first container approaches the second container along the stacking direction, the coupler translates in a direction transverse to the stacking direction, and wherein once the coupler passes over the tab relative to the stacking direction, a biasing force pushes the coupler to the first position.

[0086] A mating interface according to any one or more embodiments, wherein in the first orientation, the coupler is biased toward a first side in the first position, and in the second orientation, the coupler is biased toward a second side in the first position.

[0087] A mating interface according to any one or more embodiments, wherein in the first orientation, the coupler is biased toward the second side in the second position, and in the second orientation, the coupler is biased toward the first side in the second position.

[0088] An apparatus as shown and described in one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0089] A system configured to operate in accordance with one or more embodiments disclosed herein.

[0090] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention (including the best mode), and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any included method. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. If these other examples include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims, then these other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A reversible locking plate for fixing a first container relative to a second container in a stacked configuration along a stacking direction, the reversible locking plate comprising: A planar body extending between a first side and a second side, a first raised button at the first side, a second raised button at the second side, and a plurality of slots configured to receive corresponding portions of the first container; A hinge mechanism configured to rotate 180 degrees about a hinge axis; And At least one biasing member configured to apply a biasing force to the planar body in a first direction when the reversible locking plate is in a first orientation and in a second direction when the reversible locking plate is in a second orientation, Wherein actuation of the hinge mechanism causes the reversible locking plate to switch between the first orientation and the second orientation.

2. The reversible locking plate according to claim 1, wherein, The planar body is symmetric about a first axis of symmetry.

3. The reversible locking plate according to claim 2, wherein, The first axis of symmetry extends through the first raised button and the second raised button.

4. The reversible locking plate according to claim 2, wherein, The planar body is symmetric about a second axis of symmetry different from the first axis of symmetry.

5. The reversible locking plate according to claim 1, wherein, The planar body, the first raised button, and the second raised button are formed as a single piece.

6. The reversible locking plate according to claim 1, wherein, The hinge mechanism includes a rotating member configured to control the rotation of the hinge mechanism.

7. The reversible locking plate according to claim 6, wherein the hinge mechanism includes a biasing member housing that is translatable relative to the rotating member along a first axis to allow compression and extension of the at least one biasing member.

8. The reversible locking plate according to claim 6, wherein A biasing member coupler of the rotating member extends within a translation channel of the biasing member housing, wherein translation of the biasing member coupler in the first direction causes compression of the at least one biasing member.

9. The reversible locking plate according to claim 6, wherein, Movement of the planar body in the first direction causes compression of the at least one biasing member.

10. The reversible locking plate according to claim 6, wherein, Translation of one of the first raised button and the second raised button along the first axis causes translation of the planar body along the first axis.

11. The reversible locking plate according to claim 1, wherein, The hinge mechanism is configured to rotate 360 degrees about the hinge axis, optionally, wherein the hinge mechanism is configured to rotate 360 degrees about the hinge axis in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction.

12. A mating interface for selectively fixing a first container relative to a second container in a stacked configuration along a stacking direction, the interface comprising: A protrusion located on one of the first container and the second container, the protrusion being spaced from a surface to form a gap that is open in a direction transverse to the stacking direction; And A coupler movably mounted to the other of the first container and the second container, the coupler being capable of moving between a first orientation and a second orientation and capable of translating between a first position and a second position in a direction transverse to the stacking direction, In the first position, a portion of the coupler is located within the gap, thereby preventing separation of the first container and the second container along the stacking direction, and In the second position, the coupler is not positioned within the gap.

13. The mating interface according to claim 12, comprising a hinge mechanism capable of rotating 180 degrees about a hinge axis, wherein, Rotation of the hinge mechanism moves the coupler between the first orientation and the second orientation.

14. The mating interface according to claim 12, wherein, The coupler is biased toward the first position by at least one biasing member.

15. The mating interface according to claim 12, wherein, The tab terminates a portion of the gap such that a portion of the gap is closed along the stacking direction, and wherein the coupler is configured to engage and overlap the tab relative to the stacking direction in the first position.

16. The mating interface according to claim 15, wherein, When the first container approaches the second container along the stacking direction, the coupler translates in a direction transverse to the stacking direction, and wherein once the coupler has passed over the tab relative to the stacking direction, a biasing force urges the coupler to the first position.

17. The mating interface according to claim 12, wherein, In the first orientation, the coupler is biased toward a first side in the first position, and in the second orientation, the coupler is biased toward a second side in the first position.

18. The mating interface according to claim 17, wherein, In the first orientation, the coupler is biased toward the second side in the second position, and in the second orientation, the coupler is biased toward the first side in the second position.

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