Reusable storage container

Abstract

A storage container is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the storage container includes a lower portion defining a first opening and capable of containing a liquid. The storage container includes an upper portion defining a second opening and received by a lower portion, and the upper portion is in fluid communication with the lower portion. The storage container comprises a liquid outlet extending from the upper portion, and at least one part of the liquid can be poured out of the liquid outlet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to storage containers and methods of using storage containers. Background Art

[0002] Many consumables such as food and beverages are preferably stored in containers. The containers can be stored in refrigerators, for example, to slow down the growth of bacteria associated with the consumables. Storage in refrigerators can extend the freshness and quality of consumables compared to when the consumables are stored at higher temperatures (e.g., room temperature).

[0003] It can be a tricky thing to load consumables into a container, because overflow and dripping everywhere often occur. Usually a separate tool (such as a funnel) is required to load consumables into a storage container. In addition, many storage containers (such as milk cartons) require specific and separate machines to load milk during the production process. Due to these limitations on site, the container may include a large hole to minimize overflow and the need for a separate tool during the filling process. However, the large hole on the container with the consumables can make the distribution of the stored consumables a tricky thing. For example, if the user wishes to distribute the consumables into, for example, a different container, the user is usually required to distribute the consumables into an opening larger than the storage container opening, or the user is required to use a separate tool (such as a funnel). Alternatively, the container can include a spigot for distributing consumables.

[0004] However, relying on a separate tool such as a funnel can be time consuming and require the user to clean additional utensils. Additionally, containers with plugs can be inefficient because the container needs to be positioned so that the plug is over an edge, the plug prevents other containers from being stored near the container, and the flow rate of dispensing consumables decreases as more consumables are dispensed. Therefore, there is a need for improved methods and systems to provide containers that more efficiently store and dispense consumables. Utility Model Content

[0005] A storage container is disclosed. The storage container includes a lower portion defining a first opening. The lower portion can hold a liquid. The storage container includes an upper portion defining a second opening. The upper portion can be received by the lower portion and is in fluid communication with the lower portion. The storage container includes a liquid spout extending from the upper portion. When the upper portion and the lower portion are coupled together in an assembled configuration, at least a portion of the liquid can be poured from the liquid spout of the storage container.

[0006] Optionally, in some embodiments, the first opening and the second opening are threaded openings.

[0007] Optionally, in some embodiments, the storage container includes a cap, such as a removable cap. The cap can cover the liquid outlet to prevent the liquid from pouring out through the liquid outlet.

[0008] Optionally, in some embodiments, the storage container includes a customized surface. The customized surface can be located on at least one of the upper portion and the lower portion. The customized surface can display information related to the liquid.

[0009] Optionally, in some embodiments, the storage container is reusable and the lower portion can receive different liquids.

[0010] Optionally, in some embodiments, the lower portion can receive liquid via the first opening. The upper portion can dispense liquid via the liquid outlet. The first opening can be larger than the liquid outlet.

[0011] Optionally, in some embodiments, the first opening may be larger than the liquid outlet. The storage container may be operable between a first use and a second use. The first use may be defined as: the lower portion may receive liquid through the first opening when the upper portion is disconnected from the lower portion. The second use may be defined as: the upper portion may dispense liquid through the liquid outlet when the upper portion is coupled to the lower portion.

[0012] Optionally, in some embodiments, the storage container can be operated between a loading configuration and a storage configuration. The loading configuration can be defined as the lower portion being able to receive liquid through the first opening with the upper portion disengaged from the lower portion. The storage configuration can be defined as the upper portion being coupled to the lower portion.

[0013] A reusable storage container is disclosed. The reusable storage container includes a lower portion. The lower portion may define a first opening for receiving a liquid. The reusable storage container includes an upper portion coupled to the lower portion. The upper portion may define a second opening in fluid communication with the first opening. The second opening may dispense a liquid.

[0014] Optionally, in some embodiments, the reusable storage container can be operated between a first use and a second use. The first use can be defined as: the reusable storage container can receive liquid in the lower portion through the first opening. The second use can be defined as: the reusable storage container can dispense liquid through the liquid outlet extending from the upper portion.

[0015] Optionally, in some embodiments, the reusable storage container can be operated between a loading configuration and a storage configuration. The loading configuration can be defined as: the lower portion can receive liquid through the first opening. The storage configuration can be defined as: the upper portion is coupled to the lower portion, and at least a portion of the liquid is stored in the lower portion.

[0016] Optionally, in some embodiments, the reusable storage container may include a liquid outlet. The liquid outlet may extend from the upper portion. The liquid outlet may allow fluid communication between the second opening and the first opening. In addition, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the liquid may be poured from the liquid outlet of the storage container.

[0017] Optionally, in some embodiments, the reusable storage container may include a cap. The cap may cover the liquid outlet when the reusable storage container is in a storage configuration. The storage configuration may be defined as: at least a portion of the liquid is stored in the lower portion.

[0018] A method of using a storage container is disclosed. The method includes placing a liquid in a lower portion of the storage container. The liquid can be placed in through a first opening. The method includes connecting an upper portion and a lower portion of the storage container. The method includes pouring the liquid from the upper portion of the storage container.

[0019] Optionally, in some embodiments, the method may include opening the lower portion before loading the liquid into the lower portion. The lower portion may be opened by disengaging the upper portion from the lower portion. Disengaging the upper portion from the lower portion may expose the first opening.

[0020] Optionally, in some embodiments, the method may include storing the storage container in an environment wherein at least a portion of the liquid is stored in the lower portion.

[0021] Optionally, in some embodiments, the method may include pouring the liquid from the storage container. The liquid may be poured from the storage container via a liquid outlet. The liquid outlet may extend from the upper portion.

[0022] Optionally, in some embodiments, the method may include customizing a custom surface. The custom surface may be at least one of an upper portion and a lower portion. The customizing may include information related to the liquid.

[0023] Other embodiments and features will be described in part in the following description, and those skilled in the art will find these embodiments and features obvious after reviewing the specification and can understand these embodiments and features through practice of the disclosed subject matter. The nature and advantages of the present disclosure can be further understood by reference to the remainder of the specification and the accompanying drawings that form a part of the present disclosure. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that each of the various aspects and features of the present disclosure can be advantageously used alone in some cases, or can be used in combination with other aspects and features of the present disclosure in other cases. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 The storage container is shown in an assembled configuration.

[0025] Figure 2The storage container is shown in a disassembled configuration.

[0026] Figure 3A The storage container is shown in a stowed configuration.

[0027] Figure 3B The storage container is shown in a dispensed configuration.

[0028] Figure 4A The storage container is shown in a storage configuration.

[0029] Figure 4B The storage container is shown in a storage configuration.

[0030] Figure 4C The storage container is shown in a storage configuration.

[0031] Figure 5 A customized surface of a storage container is shown.

[0032] Figure 6 Storage containers are shown in a storage configuration in an example environment.

[0033] Figure 7 A method of using a storage container is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Disclosed are systems and methods for storing consumables. The disclosed system includes a storage container. The storage container may include two parts: a lower portion and an upper portion. The consumables may be loaded into the lower portion via a first opening when the lower portion and the upper portion are disengaged. Then, when the lower portion and the upper portion are connected, the consumables may be dispensed through a second opening defined by the upper portion and a liquid outlet extending from the upper portion. The lower opening may be larger than the liquid outlet, which is advantageous because the consumables may be loaded into the lower portion without an additional tool (such as a funnel). In addition, since the liquid outlet is relatively small (e.g., compared to the lower opening), the consumables may be more easily consumed and / or poured into different containers, such as containers for consumable consumption, than when the liquid outlet and the lower opening are as large. For example, the consumables may be dispensed from the storage container without a separate tool, such as a funnel. Therefore, the storage container provides an efficient way for users to load and dispense consumables. Advantageously, the storage container may also be reusable. It may be made of food grade plastic or other suitable materials and may be safe for use in dishwashers and refrigerators.

[0035] In some embodiments, the upper portion can be located above the lower portion. With this "stacked" configuration of the storage container, consumables can be effectively stored in a refrigerator or similar storage environment without the need for a plug, which would take up additional storage space in the refrigerator. In some embodiments, when the storage container is in the storage configuration, the storage container can include a cap to cover the liquid outlet and prevent bacteria from contacting the consumables, spills, etc. The cap can be removed to dispense the consumables without the flow rate dropping as quickly as dispensing the consumables from the plug.

[0036] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a storage container 105 is disclosed. Figure 1 In FIG, storage container 105 is depicted in assembled configuration 100. Figure 2 , the storage container 105 is depicted in a disassembled configuration 200. Figure 3A As shown, the storage container 105 can store consumables 305. For example, the storage container 105 can store consumables 305 greater than or equal to about 6 ounces and less than or equal to about 70 ounces. The consumables 305 can be liquids and / or solids. For example, the consumables 305 can be edible food and / or beverages, for example, the consumables 305 can be for people and / or animals to drink, such as juice, water, milk, coffee, lemonade, tea, fruit for flavoring water, soup that may contain potatoes and meat, and the like. For example, the storage container 105 can store lemonade and store the storage container 105 in a refrigerator. The storage container 105 and the components of the storage container 105 discussed herein can be or can include any combination of food-grade plastics (such as low-density polyethylene and polypropylene), cardboard, glass, silicone, double-walled stainless steel, or similar materials. For example, the components of the storage container 105 discussed herein can be clear or transparent, or can include slight coloring, or can be completely opaque. The storage container 105 can be reusable. For example, the storage container 105 can be cleaned or otherwise sterilized (e.g., dishwasher safe) to remove the consumable 305, and the user can store another consumable in the storage container 105. Because the storage container 105 is reusable, the user can reduce waste because the user does not need to obtain a new storage container for each consumable stored.

[0037] The storage container 105 may include a lower portion 110, which may also be referred to as a body 110. The lower portion 110 may be formed by a plurality of panels. For example, the lower portion 110 may be formed by a front panel 130 and an opposing rear panel 140, a first side panel 135 and an opposing second side panel 145, a bottom panel 150 and an opposing top panel 205 (the top panel 205 may also be referred to as a lower surface 205 and a body surface 205). The panels 130, 135, 140, 145, 150, 205 may together form an internal compartment of the lower portion 110. Consumables 305 may be stored in the internal compartment of the lower portion 110. For example, the internal compartment of the lower portion 110 may hold 64 ounces of liquid. In other embodiments, the internal compartment may hold consumables 305 greater than or equal to about 62 ounces and less than or equal to about 66 ounces. In this configuration, the storage container 105 may hold multiple consumables 305.

[0038] The lower portion 110 may define a first opening 210. The first opening 210 may be defined by any panel 130, 135, 140, 145, 150, 205 of the lower portion 110. For example, the lower surface 205 (e.g., the top panel 205) may define the first opening 210. The diameter of the first opening 210 may be between about (+ / - 10%) 1.5 inches and 4 inches. For example, the diameter of the first opening 210 may be 2 inches. The first opening 210 may be a threaded opening. Similarly, the lower portion 110 may include an attachment member 225, which may also be referred to as a throat or collar 225. For example, the lower surface 205 may include the attachment member 225. The attachment member 225 may extend from the lower surface 205. The attachment member 225 may define the first opening 210. The attachment member 225 may have a threaded surface. For example, the outer surface of the attachment member 225 may be threaded.

[0039] The storage container 105 may include an upper portion 115, which may also be referred to as a cap 115. The upper portion 115 may be of any shape, such as a pyramid, a dome, a cube, etc. For example, the upper portion 115 may resemble the top of a 64-ounce milk or juice carton. The upper portion 115 may include a bottom panel 215, a top panel 235, a front panel 240, a rear panel 245, and a side panel 250, corresponding to the same panels 130, 135, 140, 145, 150, and 205 of the lower portion. The upper portion 115 may define a second opening 212. The size of the second opening 212 may be similar to the first opening 210 and may be configured to be received by the first opening 210. For example, the diameter of the second opening 212 may be slightly (+ / - 5%) larger than the diameter of the first opening 210 so as to fit snugly on the first opening 210. The diameter of the second opening 212 may be between approximately (+ / - 10%) 1.5 inches and 4 inches. For example, the diameter of the second opening 212 can be 2.1 inches. The second opening 212 can be a threaded opening. Similar to the first opening 210, the second opening 212 can include an attachment surface 220, which can also be a collar or a throat. The attachment member 225 of the first opening 210 is configured to receive the attachment surface 220 of the second opening 212.

[0040] The storage container 105 may include a liquid outlet 120, such as a third opening 120. For example, the upper portion 115 may include the liquid outlet 120. The liquid outlet 120 may be or may define a hole and / or channel in the upper portion 115. The liquid outlet 120 may extend from the upper portion 115. The liquid outlet 120 may also be at least partially inserted from the upper portion 115. For example, a portion of the liquid outlet 120 may be partially inserted from the upper portion 115 (e.g., extending below the top panel 235 of the upper portion 115), and another portion of the liquid outlet 120 (e.g., a lip) may extend from the upper portion 115 (e.g., extending above the top panel 235 of the upper portion). The diameter of the liquid outlet 120 may be smaller than the diameter of the first opening 210 and the second opening 212, for example, the diameters of the openings 210, 212 may both be larger than the diameter of the liquid outlet 120. The diameter of the liquid outlet 120 may be between approximately (+ / -10%) 0.5 inches and 2 inches. For example, the diameter of the outlet port 120 may be 1 inch. The outlet port 120 may include an outer surface that is threaded and configured to receive a cap.

[0041] The storage container 105 can include a cap 125. The cap 125 can have a threaded surface. For example, the inner surface of the cap 125 can be threaded. The diameter of the cap 125 can be slightly (+ / - 5%) larger than the diameter of the outlet 120 so as to fit snugly on the outlet 120. The diameter of the cap 125 can be between approximately (+ / - 10%) 0.5 inches and 2 inches. For example, the diameter of the cap 125 can be 1.1 inches.

[0042] The upper portion 115 may define an interior space 230. The interior space 230 may be formed by any shape, such as a dome, a pyramid, a cube, or the like. For example, the interior space 230 may be formed by a dome shape within the upper portion 115, and the upper portion 115 may be pyramid-shaped. In this configuration, the interior space 230 may be referred to as an interior dome 230. In addition, in this configuration, the bottom of the interior dome 230 (e.g., in the operational orientation of the storage container 105) may be formed by the second opening 212 of the upper portion 115. For example, the attachment surface 220 may be partially formed or defined in the interior space 230. Therefore, the diameter of the bottom of the interior dome 230 (e.g., in the operational orientation of the storage container 105) may be similar or the same as the second opening 212. The diameter of the bottom of the interior dome 230 (e.g., in the operational orientation of the storage container 105) may be between approximately (+ / -10%) 1.5 inches and 4 inches. For example, the bottom of the interior dome 230 (eg, in the operative orientation of the storage container 105 ) may be 2.1 inches in diameter. The surface of the upper portion 115 of the storage container 105 forming the interior space 230 may also define the aperture of the outlet 120 .

[0043] In the assembled configuration 100, the lower portion 110 and the upper portion 115 can be coupled or otherwise attached. In the assembled configuration 100, the top panel 205 of the lower portion 110 can correspond to the bottom panel 215 of the upper portion 115. For example, the upper portion 115 can be pyramid-shaped, and the perimeter of the base of the pyramid shape can have the same size as the perimeter of the lower surface 205, for example, the base of the pyramid shape and the lower surface 205 can be a square of 2.5 inches x 2.5 inches. In the assembled configuration 100, the attachment member 225 and the attachment surface 220 can be invisible. For example, the lower portion 110 and the upper portion 115 of the storage container 105 can be or can include an opaque material, such as cardboard or stainless steel. However, in an example where the lower portion 110 and the upper portion 115 of the storage container 105 include a transparent material (such as glass or plastic), the lower portion 110 and the upper portion 115 can be visible in the assembled configuration 100.

[0044] The lower part 110 and the upper part 115 can be connected to each other by the attachment member 225 and the attachment surface 220. Since the surfaces of the attachment member 225 and the attachment surface 220 are threaded, the threads of the attachment member 225 can correspond to or otherwise engage with the threads of the attachment surface 220. For example, the upper part 115 can be placed on the lower part 110 so that the first opening 210 and the second opening 212 are aligned. Since the diameter of the second opening 212 can be slightly larger than the diameter of the first opening 210, the attachment surface 220 can be tightly engaged with the outer surface of the attachment member 225. The upper part 115 can be twisted relative to the lower part 110 to promote the engagement between the threads of the attachment surface 220 and the threads of the attachment member 225. The upper part 115 and the lower part 110 can be configured to facilitate the connection to each other via other mechanical methods other than threads. For example, the attachment surface 220 can be snapped onto the attachment member 225. Additionally or alternatively, rather than including the attachment surface 220 and the attachment member 225 , the lower portion 110 and the upper portion 115 may include magnetic components to facilitate magnetic coupling thereof.

[0045] The liquid outlet 120 and the cap 125 can be connected to each other. Since the surfaces of the liquid outlet 120 and the cap 125 are both threaded, the thread of the liquid outlet 120 can correspond to or otherwise engage with the thread of the cap 125. For example, the cap 125 can be placed on the liquid outlet 120 to align with the hole of the liquid outlet 120. Since the diameter of the cap 125 can be slightly larger than the diameter of the liquid outlet 120, the cap 125 can be tightly engaged with the outer surface of the liquid outlet 120. The cap 125 can be twisted or rotated to promote the engagement between the thread of the liquid outlet 120 and the thread of the cap 125. The cap 125 and the liquid outlet 120 can be configured to facilitate being connected to each other via other mechanical methods except the thread. For example, the cap 125 can be snapped onto the liquid outlet 120.

[0046] In the disassembled configuration 200, the lower portion 110 and the upper portion 115 are separated or otherwise disengaged. In addition, the liquid outlet 120 and the cap 125 may also be separated or otherwise disengaged. In the disassembled configuration 200, the first opening 210 may be exposed. In addition, in the disassembled configuration 200, the liquid outlet 120 may also be exposed.

[0047] refer to Figure 3A and Figure 3B , showing other configurations of the storage container 105. Figure 3A The storage container 105 is shown in a loading configuration 300 , which may also be referred to as a first use 300 . Figure 3B300 and the dispensing configuration 310. The storage container 105 is shown in the dispensing configuration 310, which may also be referred to as the second use 310. The storage container 105 may be operated or converted between the loading configuration 300 and the dispensing configuration 310. For example, a user may operate or convert the storage container 105 between the loading configuration 300 and the dispensing configuration 310.

[0048] In the loading configuration 300, the storage container 105 can receive the consumables 305 in the lower portion 110 through the first opening 210. For example, the lower portion 110 can receive the consumables 305 via the first opening 210 when the upper portion 115 is disengaged from the lower portion 110. The consumables 305 can be poured or otherwise distributed into the storage container 105, such as the lower portion 110 of the storage container 105. For example, the consumables 305 greater than or equal to about 62 ounces and less than or equal to about 66 ounces can be poured into the lower portion 110. The storage container 105 can be in the disassembled configuration 200 so as to expose the first opening 210. With the first opening 210 exposed, the consumables 305 can be poured through the first opening 210. Since the diameter of the first opening 210 can be approximately 2 inches (for example), additional tools such as a funnel may not be required. For example, the diameter of the first opening 210 can be large enough to pour the consumables 305 into the lower portion 110 without spilling. In addition, since the diameter of the first opening 210 can be approximately 2 inches (for example), solid consumables 305 such as fruit, ice cubes, etc. can be dispensed into the lower portion 110. Since the diameter of the first opening 210 can be large enough to allow the solid consumables 305 to pass through, the user can have more various options than if the solid consumables cannot be loaded into the storage container 105 through the opening.

[0049] In the dispensing configuration 310, the storage container 105 can dispense the consumable product 305 via the outlet 120. For example, the upper portion 115 can dispense the consumable product 305 via the outlet 120 when the upper portion 115 is coupled to the lower portion 110. In the dispensing configuration 310, the upper portion 115 is received by the lower portion 110, and the lower portion 110 and the upper portion 115 are in fluid communication with each other. For example, the second opening 212 of the upper portion 115 is in fluid communication with the first opening 210 of the lower portion 110. The second opening 212 can dispense the consumable product 305. For example, the second opening 212 can dispense at least a portion of the consumable product 305 from the lower portion 110 to the outlet 120, and then the outlet 120 can dispense at least a portion of the consumable product 305 from the storage container 105. Therefore, the second opening 212 can allow fluid communication between the outlet 120 and the first opening 210.

[0050] The liquid outlet 120 can be large enough to allow solid consumables 305 to pass through. For example, a user can pour soup containing ground beef through the liquid outlet 120. In another example, the diameter of the liquid outlet 120 can prevent the passage of solid consumables 305. For example, the diameter of the liquid outlet 120 can be large enough to allow liquids (such as water) to pass through, but small enough to prevent solids (such as lemon wedges) from passing through.

[0051] The interior space 230 of the upper portion 115 can help guide the consumables 305 from the openings 210, 212 to the liquid outlet 120. For example, the surfaces defining and / or forming the interior space 230 can help prevent the consumables 305 from spreading into other portions and / or spaces of the upper portion 115. In this example, because the interior space 230 provides a path for the consumables 305 to travel, the interior space 230 can help keep the storage container 105 clean or otherwise sanitary.

[0052] refer to Figures 4A-4C and Figure 6 , a storage configuration 400 of a storage container 105 is disclosed. Figure 6 Also shown is a storage container 105 in a storage configuration 400 in an environment 605. The environment 605 can be a freezer, a refrigerator, a cabinet, a countertop, or the like. For example, the storage container 105 can be stored at various temperatures from frozen to high temperatures (e.g., the storage container 105 can be heated by a microwave), including at room temperature. For the storage container 105 in the storage configuration 400 in the environment 605, the lower portion 110 and the upper portion 115 can be "stacked" so that the storage container 105 and the consumables 305 can be stored more efficiently. For example, the storage container 105 can require less space than a container including a plug, which would take up additional storage space in the environment 605 (such as a refrigerator).

[0053] The storage configuration 400 is similar to the assembly configuration 100 and the dispensing configuration 310 because the lower portion 110 and the upper portion 115 can be coupled. In the storage configuration 400, the consumables 305 can be stored in the storage container 105. For example, the consumables 305 can be stored in the lower portion 110 of the storage container 105. For example, the internal compartment of the lower portion 110 formed by the panels 130, 135, 140, 145, 150, 205 can accommodate the consumables 305. In addition, the liquid outlet 120 and the cap 125 can be coupled in the storage configuration 400. In the case where the cap 125 and the liquid outlet 120 are coupled, the cap 125 can cover the liquid outlet 120 and prevent the consumables 305 from being poured out through the liquid outlet 120 or otherwise dispensed from the storage container 105.

[0054] The storage container 105 can be operated or converted between the loading configuration 300 and the storage configuration 400. For example, the user can operate or convert the storage container 105 from the loading configuration 300 to the storage configuration 400. The lower portion 110 can receive the consumables 305 via the first opening 210 when the upper portion 115 is disengaged from the lower portion 110 (for example, the user can pour the consumables 305 into the lower portion 110). Then, in the storage configuration 400, the upper portion 115 is coupled to the lower portion 110. At least a portion of the consumables 305 can be stored in the lower portion 110. In addition, the cap 125 can be coupled to the liquid outlet 120. The user can place the storage container 105 in the environment 605, wherein the storage container 105 is in the storage configuration 400. For example, when the storage container 105 is in the storage configuration 400, the cap 125 can cover the liquid outlet 120, wherein in the storage configuration 400, at least a portion of the consumables 305 is stored in the lower portion 110.

[0055] like Figures 4A-4C As shown, the storage container 105 can receive different consumables. For example, the lower portion 110 of the storage container 105 can receive different consumables. The ability of the lower portion 110 to receive and thus store different consumables facilitates the reusability of the storage container 105. For example, in Figure 4A In the embodiment, the lower portion 110 of the storage container 105 can receive and store the first consumable 405. The first consumable 405 can include food such as fruit (e.g., lemon, cucumber, strawberry), soup, milkshake, etc. Figure 4B In the embodiment, the lower portion 110 of the storage container 105 can receive and store the second consumable 410. The second consumable 410 can include liquids such as water, milk, tea, alcohol, etc. Figure 4C , the lower portion 110 of the storage container 105 can receive and store a third consumable 415. The third consumable 415 can include solids such as ice cubes, plastic ice cubes, vibration balls, etc. The storage container 105 can receive, store and / or dispense consumables 305, first consumables 405, second consumables 410, third consumables 415, and / or any combination thereof. For example, consumables 305 can include any or all of the characteristics of the first consumable 405, the second consumable 410, and the third consumable 415, and can therefore be referred to interchangeably.

[0056] Figure 5 Customizable surfaces of storage container 105 are shown. Storage container 105 may include at least one customized surface 505. Storage container 105 and its surface (e.g., customized surface 505) may include customization 510 or be customized in other ways. For example, a user may add customization 510 to storage container 105.

[0057] The customized surface 505 can be located or otherwise disposed on any surface of the storage container 105. For example, the customized surface 505 can be at least one of the upper portion 115 and the lower portion 110. For example, the customized surface 505 can be located on a tab of the upper portion 115, such as Figure 5 on the front panel 130 of the lower portion 110; and / or on both the tab and the front panel 130. For example, the storage container 105 can include a plurality of customized surfaces 505.

[0058] Customization 510 may be related to information about consumable 305. For example, customization surface 505 may display information about a liquid stored in lower portion 110 of storage container 105. Customization 510 may include a best before / expiration date, a description of consumable 305 (e.g., "lemonade"), the source of consumable 305 (e.g., "Grandma's lemonade"), or similar information.

[0059] Figure 7 A method 700 of using a storage container is shown. It is not necessary to include reference Figure 7 Each method step of the method 700 is described. In addition, the method steps of the method 700 may be performed out of order or in a different order.

[0060] The storage container can be similar or identical to the storage container 105. The method 700 can include opening the lower portion 110 (step 705). Step 705 can facilitate and / or cause the storage container 105 to be operated to the disassembled configuration 200. The lower portion 110 can be opened by disengaging the upper portion 115 from the lower portion 110. Disengaging the upper portion 115 from the lower portion 110 can expose the first opening 210. For example, a user can twist or pull the upper portion 115 and / or the lower portion 110 to disengage the attachment surface 220 from the attachment member 225.

[0061] Method 700 includes loading a lower portion of a storage container (step 710). Step 710 may be similar or identical to loading configuration 300, and the lower portion may be similar or identical to lower portion 110. For example, method 700 may include loading a liquid (e.g., consumables 305) into lower portion 110 of storage container 105 via first opening 210. For example, lower portion 110 may receive consumables 305 via first opening 210 when upper portion 115 is disengaged from lower portion 110. Since the diameter of first opening 210 may be approximately 2 inches (for example), additional tools such as a funnel may not be required. For example, the diameter of first opening 210 may be large enough to pour consumables 305 into lower portion 110 without spilling.

[0062] The method 700 includes coupling the upper portion of the storage container to the lower portion (step 715). Step 715 can facilitate and / or cause the storage container 105 to be operated to the assembled configuration 100 and / or the storage configuration 400. The upper portion can be similar or identical to the upper portion 115. For example, the lower portion 110 and the upper portion 115 can be coupled to each other through the attachment member 225 and the attachment surface 220. Therefore, the method 700 can include placing the upper portion 115 on the lower portion 110 so as to align the first opening 210 and the second opening 212. Since the diameter of the second opening 212 can be slightly larger than the diameter of the first opening 210, the attachment surface 220 can be closely engaged with the outer surface of the attachment member 225. The method 700 can include twisting the upper portion 115 so as to facilitate the engagement between the threads of the attachment surface 220 and the threads of the attachment member 225. In addition, the upper portion 115 and the lower portion 110 can be configured to facilitate coupling to each other via other methods other than threads. For example, the method 700 may include snapping the attachment surface 220 onto the attachment member 225 .

[0063] Method 700 includes pouring liquid from the upper portion of the storage container (step 720). Step 720 can be similar or identical to dispensing configuration 310. For example, upper portion 115 can dispense consumables 305 via liquid outlet 120 when upper portion 115 is coupled to lower portion 110. Method 700 can include pouring liquid from storage container 105 via a liquid outlet extending from upper portion 115. The liquid outlet can be similar or identical to liquid outlet 120. For example, liquid outlet 120 can extend from upper portion 115 and be in fluid communication with first opening 210 and second opening 212. Liquid outlet 120 can be large enough to allow solid consumables 305 to pass through.

[0064] Method 700 may include storing the storage container (step 725). Step 725 may facilitate and / or result in the storage container 105 being manipulated into the storage configuration 400. For example, method 700 may include storing the storage container 105 in an environment in which at least a portion of the consumables 305 are stored in the lower portion 110. The environment may be similar or identical to the environment 605. For example, the storage container 105 may be stored at various temperatures ranging from frozen to high temperatures (e.g., the storage container 105 may be microwaved), including at room temperature.

[0065] Method 700 may include customizing a customized surface of at least one of the upper portion and the lower portion (step 730). The customized surface may be similar or identical to customized surface 505. For example, customized surface 505 may be located or otherwise disposed on any surface of storage container 105 and may include customization 510 or otherwise be customized. Customization 510 may be related to information of consumable 305, such as an expiration date, instructions, source, or similar information.

[0066] The descriptions of specific embodiments included herein are merely exemplary in nature and are in no way intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure or its application or use. In the included detailed description of the embodiments of the present system and method, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part of the present invention, which diagrammatically show specific embodiments in which the system and method can be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to implement the system and method disclosed in the present invention, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be used and that structural and logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. In addition, for the sake of clarity, when certain features are obvious to those skilled in the art, these features will not be described in detail so as not to obscure the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the included detailed description should not be regarded as restrictive, and the scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

[0067] From the foregoing it will be appreciated that, although specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0068] The specific details shown herein are only examples and are used to illustratively discuss the preferred embodiments of the utility model, and the purpose is to provide the most useful and easily understood description of the principles and concepts of various embodiments of the utility model. In this regard, no attempt is made to show the structural details of the utility model in more detail than is necessary for a basic understanding of the utility model, and the description combined with the drawings and / or examples makes it clear to those skilled in the art how several forms of the utility model are embodied in practice.

[0069] Unless otherwise stated, the words "a" and "an" as used herein should be understood as "single", "at least one" or "one or more". Unless the context requires otherwise, singular terms used herein should include the plural, and plural terms should include the singular. Unless otherwise stated, the word "about" herein should be interpreted as + / -10%. Each numerical range disclosed herein (in the form of "from about a to about b", or equivalently, "from approximately a to b", or equivalently, "from approximately ab") should be understood to set forth each number and range contained in the wider numerical range.

[0070] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the words "including", "consisting of", etc. should be understood to have an inclusive meaning, rather than an exclusive or exhaustive meaning; that is, they should be understood to mean "including but not limited to". Words using the singular or plural number also include the plural and singular, respectively. In addition, the words "herein", "above" and "below" and words of similar meaning used in this application shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular part of this application.

[0071] Of course, it should be understood that any one of the examples, embodiments, or processes described herein may be combined with one or more other examples, embodiments, and / or processes, or separated and / or performed between separate devices or device portions according to the present systems, devices, and methods.

[0072] Finally, the above discussion is intended to illustrate the present system only and should not be construed as limiting the appended claims to any particular embodiment or set of embodiments. Therefore, although the present system has been described in particular detail with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should also be understood that many modifications and alternative embodiments may be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the broader and intended spirit and scope of the present system as set forth in the claims that follow. Accordingly, the specification and drawings should be regarded in an illustrative manner and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A storage container, comprising: comprising a lower portion of a top panel, the top panel defining a first opening, the lower portion being configured to receive a liquid; an upper portion received by and in fluid communication with the lower portion, the upper portion comprising a bottom panel defining a second opening, wherein a perimeter of the bottom panel is the same size as a perimeter of the top panel; and A liquid spout extends from the upper portion, wherein when the upper and lower portions are coupled together in an assembled configuration, the bottom panel abuts against and corresponds to the top panel, and at least a portion of the liquid contained in the lower portion can be poured from the liquid spout extending from the upper portion of the storage container.

2. The storage container according to claim 1, wherein: The first opening is a threaded opening.

3. The storage container according to claim 1, wherein: The second opening is a threaded opening.

4. The storage container according to claim 1, wherein: include: A cap covers the liquid outlet, and the cap prevents liquid from pouring out through the liquid outlet.

5. The storage container according to claim 1, wherein: include: A customized surface of at least one of the upper portion and the lower portion, the customized surface being used to display information related to the liquid.

6. The storage container according to claim 1, wherein: The storage container is reusable and the lower portion is configured to receive different liquids.

7. The storage container according to claim 1, wherein: The lower portion receives liquid through the first opening; The upper portion distributes liquid through a liquid outlet; The first opening is larger than the liquid outlet.

8. The storage container of claim 1, wherein: The first opening is larger than the liquid outlet, and the storage container can be operated between the following two uses: A first use, wherein the lower portion receives liquid through the first opening when the upper portion is detached from the lower portion; and The second use, wherein, when the upper part is coupled to the lower part, the upper part distributes the liquid through the liquid outlet.

9. The storage container of claim 1, wherein: The storage container is capable of operating between the following two configurations: a loading configuration wherein, with the upper portion disengaged from the lower portion, the lower portion receives liquid through the first opening; and A storage configuration wherein the upper portion is coupled to a lower portion.

10. A reusable storage container comprising: including a lower portion of a top panel, the top panel defining a first opening to receive liquid; as well as an upper portion coupled to the lower portion, the upper portion comprising a bottom panel defining a second opening in fluid communication with the first opening, the second opening being for dispensing liquid, wherein a perimeter of the bottom panel is of the same size as a perimeter of the top panel, the bottom panel abuts against and corresponds to the top panel, and at least a portion of the liquid contained in the lower portion is capable of being poured out of the upper portion of the storage container.

11. The reusable storage container of claim 10, wherein: The reusable storage container is capable of operating between the following two uses: a first use, wherein the reusable storage container receives liquid in the lower portion through the first opening; and A second use, wherein the reusable storage container dispenses liquid through a liquid outlet extending from an upper portion.

12. The reusable storage container of claim 10, wherein: The reusable storage container is capable of operating between the following two configurations: a loading configuration, wherein the lower portion receives liquid through the first opening; and A storage configuration wherein the upper portion is coupled to a lower portion and at least a portion of the liquid is stored in the lower portion.

13. The reusable storage container of claim 10, wherein: include: A liquid outlet extends from the upper portion, and the second opening is configured to allow fluid communication between the liquid outlet and the first opening.

14. The reusable storage container of claim 13, wherein: At least a portion of the liquid can be poured out from the liquid outlet of the storage container.

15. The reusable storage container of claim 13, wherein: include: A cap is provided for covering the liquid outlet when the reusable storage container is in a storage configuration in which at least a portion of the liquid is stored in the lower portion.

16. The reusable storage container of claim 13, wherein: The first opening and the liquid outlet have different sizes.

17. A storage container comprising: a lower portion defining a first opening, the lower portion being configured to receive a liquid; an upper portion received by and in fluid communication with the lower portion, the upper portion defining a second opening; as well as a liquid outlet extending from the upper portion, wherein at least a portion of the liquid contained in the lower portion is pourable from the liquid outlet extending from the upper portion of the storage container when the upper and lower portions are coupled together in an assembled configuration; The upper portion defines an internal space, and the internal space guides the consumables from the lower portion through the upper portion to the liquid outlet, thereby preventing the liquid from diffusing into other parts of the upper portion outside the internal space.

18. The storage container of claim 17, wherein: The first opening and the liquid outlet have different sizes.

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