Containers, container components, container units, and portable container components

Abstract

This disclosure relates to containers, container assemblies, container units, and portable container assemblies. The container includes: a substrate and a plurality of sidewalls extending upward from the substrate, the substrate and the plurality of sidewalls defining an interior space; a skirt extending downward along a periphery of the substrate; a first edge extending outward along a periphery of a lower portion of the plurality of sidewalls; a second edge extending outward and away from the plurality of sidewalls, the second edge being configured to extend circumferentially along an upper portion of the plurality of sidewalls; and one or more stepped sections defined in an upper portion of at least one of the plurality of sidewalls, the stepped sections being configured to receive a latching unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a container, and more specifically to a container assembly comprising a set of containers that can be stacked and interlocked together. This disclosure also relates to a portable container assembly. Background Technology

[0002] WO2016142935 relates to a container assembly including a container for storing and transporting goods. The container includes at least one sidewall and a bottom wall that together define an internal space, and a cover having a top surface for closing an opening. The cover also includes at least one latching member movable between at least a first position and a second position. The container also includes a retaining member on at least one sidewall. The retaining member is positioned parallel to the latching member such that the latching member is configured to engage with a retaining member of another container to connect the container to at least one other container.

[0003] US6371320 relates to a portable workshop container assembly suitable for storing tools and other items. The assembly includes three main components stacked on top of each other. The lower component is a wheeled bucket, the middle component is a tray nested within the bucket and having a rim, and the third component is a toolbox resting on the rim. The assembly also includes a latching mechanism with a latch that pivots via a toggle member to the upper end of the bucket and engages with a first latching element mounted on the bottom of the toolbox and a second latching element mounted on the rim of the tray. When the toolbox is resting on the rim, the first and second latching elements are then adjacent to each other. In one mode of operation, the latch engages both the first and second latching elements simultaneously to interlock all three components to form the overall assembly. Utility Model Content

[0004] This disclosure relates to a container, and more specifically to a container assembly comprising a set of containers that can be stacked and interlocked together. This disclosure also relates to a latching unit for detachably engaging with a set of containers on top of each other.

[0005] The term “container” is used in its broad sense in this article and is intended to refer to a variety of items, such as storage containers of any shape and size, travel suitcases, toolboxes, organizers, storage boxes used in the kitchen, compact workbenches, cable storage, tool boxes, moving platforms, mobile containers, etc.

[0006] As used herein, the term "container assembly" refers to a group of containers configured for hinged together, which may be stationary or movable. Such assemblies can be used as tool carts, workshops, travel luggage, etc.

[0007] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a container including a substrate and a plurality of sidewalls extending upwardly from the substrate. The substrate and the plurality of sidewalls together define an interior space. The container also includes a skirt extending downwardly along a periphery of the substrate. The container also includes a first edge extending outwardly along a periphery of a lower portion of the plurality of sidewalls. The container also includes a second edge extending outwardly and away from the plurality of sidewalls and configured to extend circumferentially along an upper portion of the plurality of sidewalls. The container includes one or more stepped sections defined in the upper portion of at least one of the plurality of sidewalls, said stepped sections being configured to receive latching units.

[0008] In some embodiments, one or more stepped sections include a main flange that extends outward and is substantially perpendicular to a plurality of sidewalls.

[0009] In some embodiments, one or more stepped sections include one or more protrusions and at least one groove, both of which are defined on the upper surface of the main flange.

[0010] In some embodiments, one or more stepped sections include a pair of auxiliary flanges extending downward from the main flange and along at least one of a plurality of sidewalls. In such embodiments, one or more stepped sections may further include angled pins defined on the inner surface of each of the pair of auxiliary flanges. The angled pins of each of the pair of auxiliary flanges extend inward toward each other, and each such angled pin is configured to engage with a hole in the latching unit.

[0011] In some embodiments, the latching unit includes a housing that can be received in one or more stepped sections of a container. The housing includes a pair of parallel lips extending inwardly from the housing. Each pair of lips defines a hole configured to receive an angled pin.

[0012] In some embodiments, the latching unit includes an angled edge extending between a first end and a second end of the housing. The angled edge includes one or more locking tabs extending downward from a bottom surface of the angled edge. Furthermore, one or more locking tabs are configured to engage one or more protrusions defined on an upper surface of a main flange. The angled edge also includes a plurality of teeth extending downward from a bottom surface of the angled edge.

[0013] In some embodiments, the latching unit is rotatably coupled to one or more stepped sections and is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The latching unit is configured to secure another container to the container when in the engaged position.

[0014] In some embodiments, the container includes one or more extension members extending from a lower portion of the skirt. The one or more extension members extend substantially parallel to the first edge and away from the skirt. Each of the one or more extension members defines a slot configured to engage with a latching unit of another container.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first edge is a generally L-shaped edge and extends circumferentially along the lower portion of the plurality of sidewalls. Furthermore, the generally L-shaped edge includes a first portion extending substantially perpendicular to the plurality of sidewalls and a second portion extending substantially parallel to the plurality of sidewalls.

[0016] In some embodiments, one or more stepped sections are defined on a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall among a plurality of sidewalls.

[0017] In some embodiments, each of the one or more protrusions has a rounded corner defined around its periphery, the rounded corner being configured to facilitate sliding and engagement of one or more locking tabs with one or more protrusions.

[0018] In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of sidewalls includes at least one opening defined therein. The opening is configured to provide passageway to the interior space of the container.

[0019] On the other hand, a container assembly is provided comprising at least one first container and at least one second container resting and stacked on top of each other, each of the first and second containers being a container having the features described above. The first container is typically the bottom container in the stack, and the second container is stacked on top of it, such that a latching unit of the first container is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position to secure the second container to the first container in the engaged position.

[0020] In some embodiments, the latching unit includes a housing receivable within one or more stepped sections of a first container. The housing includes a pair of parallel lips extending inwardly from the housing. Furthermore, each pair of lips defines a hole configured to receive an angled pin of the first container. The latching unit also includes an angled edge extending between a first end and a second end of the housing, and includes one or more locking tabs extending downward from a bottom surface of the angled edge. One or more locking tabs are configured to engage with one or more protrusions defined on an upper surface of a main flange of the first container. The angled edge also includes a plurality of teeth extending downward from a bottom surface of the angled edge. At least one of the teeth covers and engages a groove defined in one or more extension members of a second container.

[0021] In some embodiments, the second container includes one or more extension members extending from a lower portion of the skirt, the extension members being substantially parallel to the first edge and extending away from the skirt. Each of the one or more extension members defines a slot configured to engage at least one of a plurality of teeth of a latching unit coupled to the first container.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first edge of each of the first container and the second container is a generally L-shaped edge extending circumferentially along the lower portion of a plurality of sidewalls. Each such L-shaped edge includes a first portion extending substantially perpendicular to the plurality of sidewalls and a second portion extending substantially parallel to the plurality of sidewalls.

[0023] In some embodiments, one or more stepped sections of each of the first container and the second container are defined on the first sidewall and the second sidewall, the second sidewall being positioned opposite the first sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls.

[0024] In some embodiments, one or more protrusions have rounded corners defined around their periphery, which are configured to facilitate sliding and engagement of one or more locking tabs of the latching unit with one or more protrusions.

[0025] In some embodiments, the second container has the same footprint as the first container and is configured to be the same as the first container.

[0026] In other embodiments, the second container has a different footprint than the first container.

[0027] In some other embodiments, the second container is essentially half the footprint of the first container. In some such embodiments, each of the first and second containers is configured to accommodate one or more half-footprint containers.

[0028] In some embodiments, each of the first container and the second container is configured to contain a plurality of smaller containers.

[0029] According to another aspect, this disclosure provides a container unit that includes a container as described herein and a lid configured to cover the interior space of the container when in a connected state.

[0030] In some embodiments, the cover includes a substrate, a skirt extending downward along the periphery of the substrate, a flange extending upward and outward from the substrate and along the periphery of the substrate, and one or more extension members extending from the lower portion of the skirt and configured to engage with a latching unit of the container.

[0031] In some embodiments, the cover includes a handle extending upward from the substrate.

[0032] The fifth aspect of this disclosure relates to a portable container assembly including at least one container as described herein, and a wheeled base connectable to the container to facilitate movement of the container in a connected state.

[0033] In some embodiments, the pulley base includes a base plate, a plurality of sidewalls extending from the base plate, an edge extending outward and away from the plurality of sidewalls and configured to extend circumferentially along the upper portion of the plurality of sidewalls, one or more stepped portions of a latching unit defined in the upper portion of at least one of the plurality of sidewalls and configured to receive the pulley base, and a plurality of grooves defined in the lower portion of the base plate, each of the plurality of grooves being configured to receive a pulley unit.

[0034] In some embodiments, the substrate includes a window defined in its central region. The window is defined by a collar extending circumferentially along the inner edge of the substrate.

[0035] In some embodiments, the plurality of sidewalls extend upward and downward relative to the substrate.

[0036] In some embodiments, the container includes one or more extension members extending from a lower portion of the skirt. The one or more extension members extend substantially parallel to the first edge and away from the skirt. Each of the one or more extension members defines a groove. The groove is configured to engage with a latching unit at the base of the pulley.

[0037] This disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the following provisions.

[0038] Clause 1. A container comprising:

[0039] A substrate and a plurality of sidewalls extending upward from the substrate, the substrate and the plurality of sidewalls defining an internal space;

[0040] A skirt portion that extends downward along the periphery of the substrate;

[0041] The first edge extends outward along the periphery of the lower portion of the plurality of sidewalls;

[0042] A second edge, extending outward and away from the plurality of sidewalls, is configured to extend circumferentially along the upper portion of the plurality of sidewalls; and

[0043] One or more stepped sections, defined in the upper portion of at least one of the plurality of sidewalls, the stepped sections being configured to receive latching units.

[0044] Clause 2. The container according to Clause 1, wherein the one or more stepped sections comprise:

[0045] A main flange that extends outward and is substantially perpendicular to the plurality of sidewalls;

[0046] Defined on the upper surface of the main flange one or more protrusions and at least one groove;

[0047] A pair of auxiliary flanges, the pair of auxiliary flanges extending downward from the main flange and along at least one of the plurality of sidewalls; and

[0048] An angled pin is defined on the inner surface of each of the pair of auxiliary flanges, the angled pin of each of the pair of auxiliary flanges extending inward toward each other, and the angled pin is configured to engage with a hole in the latching unit.

[0049] Clause 3. The container according to Clause 2, wherein the latching unit comprises:

[0050] A housing capable of being received within the one or more stepped sections of the container, the housing including a pair of parallel and inwardly extending lips, each of the pair of lips defining a hole configured to receive the angled pin; and

[0051] An angled edge extending between a first end and a second end of the housing, wherein the angled edge comprises:

[0052] One or more locking tabs, the locking tabs extending downward from the bottom surface of the angled edge, the locking tabs being configured to engage with one or more protrusions defined on the upper surface of the main flange; and

[0053] Multiple teeth, the multiple teeth extending downward from the bottom surface of the angled edge.

[0054] Clause 4. The container according to Clause 3, wherein the latching unit is rotatably coupled to the one or more stepped sections, the latching unit is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and the latching unit is configured to secure another container to the container in the engaged position.

[0055] Clause 5. The container according to Clause 1 includes one or more extension members extending from the lower portion of the skirt, the one or more extension members extending substantially parallel to the first edge and away from the skirt, and each of the one or more extension members defining a slot configured to engage with a latching unit of another container.

[0056] Clause 6. The container according to Clause 1, wherein the first edge is a generally L-shaped edge extending circumferentially along the lower portion of the plurality of sidewalls, the generally L-shaped edge including a first portion extending generally perpendicular to the plurality of sidewalls and a second portion extending generally parallel to the plurality of sidewalls.

[0057] Clause 7. The container according to Clause 1, wherein the one or more stepped sections are defined on a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls.

[0058] Clause 8. The container according to Clause 3, wherein the one or more protrusions have rounded corners defined around their periphery, the rounded corners being configured to facilitate sliding and engagement of the one or more locking tabs with the one or more protrusions.

[0059] Clause 9. A container component comprising:

[0060] A first container, wherein the first container is a container pursuant to any one of clauses 1 to 8; and

[0061] A second container, which is another container according to any one of clauses 1 to 8, is placed on and stacked on top of the first container;

[0062] The latching unit is rotatably coupled to one or more stepped sections of the first container and is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position to secure the second container to the first container in the engaged position.

[0063] Clause 10. The container assembly according to Clause 9, wherein the second container has the same footprint and configuration as the first container.

[0064] Clause 11. The container assembly as described in Clause 9, wherein the space occupied by the second container is substantially half that occupied by the first container.

[0065] Clause 12. The container assembly according to Clause 11, wherein each of the first container and the second container is configured to accommodate one or more half-occupied space containers.

[0066] Clause 13. The container assembly according to Clause 9, wherein each of the first container and the second container is configured to accommodate a plurality of smaller, space-consuming containers.

[0067] Clause 14. The container assembly according to Clause 9, wherein each of the first container and the second container is configured to accommodate at least one container with a different footprint and at least one container with a micro footprint.

[0068] Clause 15. A container unit comprising:

[0069] Containers according to any one of clauses 1 to 8; and

[0070] A lid, which is removably attached to the container and configured to cover the interior space of the container when attached.

[0071] Clause 16. The container unit according to Clause 15, wherein the lid comprises:

[0072] substrate;

[0073] A skirt that extends downward along the periphery of the substrate of the cover;

[0074] A flange extending upward and outward from the substrate of the cover, the flange of the cover extending along the periphery of the substrate of the cover; and

[0075] One or more extension members extend from the lower portion of the skirt of the cover, the one or more extension members of the cover being configured to engage with the latch unit of the container.

[0076] Clause 17. The container unit according to Clause 15, wherein the lid includes a handle extending upward from the substrate of the lid.

[0077] Clause 18. A portable container assembly comprising:

[0078] Containers according to any one of clauses 1 to 8; and

[0079] A pulley base that can be connected to the container, the pulley base being configured to facilitate movement of the container in the connected state.

[0080] Clause 19. The portable container assembly according to Clause 18, wherein the pulley base comprises:

[0081] A substrate and a plurality of sidewalls extending from the base of the pulley;

[0082] An edge that extends outward and away from the plurality of sidewalls of the pulley base, the edge being configured to extend circumferentially along the upper portion of the plurality of sidewalls of the pulley base;

[0083] One or more stepped sections, defined in the upper portion of at least one of the plurality of sidewalls of the pulley base, wherein the one or more stepped sections of the pulley base are configured to receive a latching unit of the pulley base; and

[0084] A plurality of slots are defined in the lower portion of the base plate of the pulley base, each of the plurality of slots being configured to receive a pulley unit.

[0085] Clause 20. The portable container assembly according to Clause 19, wherein the substrate of the pulley base includes a window defined in its central region, and wherein the window is defined by a collar extending circumferentially along the inner edge of the substrate of the pulley base.

[0086] Clause 21. The portable container assembly according to Clause 19, wherein the plurality of sidewalls of the pulley base extend upward and downward relative to the substrate of the pulley base.

[0087] Clause 22. The portable container assembly according to Clause 19, wherein the container includes one or more extension members extending from a lower portion of the skirt, the one or more extension members extending substantially parallel to the first edge and away from the skirt, and each of the one or more extension members defining a slot configured to engage with the latch unit of the pulley base. Attached Figure Description

[0088] To better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it can be implemented in practice, implementation methods will now be described by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0089] Figure 1 A top perspective view of a container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0090] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the container;

[0091] Figures 3A-3B It shows Figure 1 Top perspective view of the container ( Figure 3A A close-up view of the "P" at the bottom of the container. Figure 3B );

[0092] Figures 4A-4B It shows Figure 1Bottom perspective view of the container ( Figure 4A A close-up view of the "Q" on the lower part of the container. Figure 4B );

[0093] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 A close-up perspective view of the stepped section of the container;

[0094] Figures 6A-6B It shows Figure 1 Perspective view of the stepped section of the container ( Figure 6A A close-up view of the "R" area in the stepped section. Figure 6B );

[0095] Figures 7A-7B It shows Figure 1 Perspective view of the stepped section of the container ( Figure 7A A close-up view of the "S" area in the stepped section. Figure 7B );

[0096] Figures 8A-8B They are shown respectively Figure 1 Bottom perspective view of the stepped section of the container and Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the container shows an angled pin that engages with a hole in the container's latching unit;

[0097] Figure 8C The diagram shows Figure 8B A close-up view of the angled pin depicted in the image;

[0098] Figures 9A-9B It shows Figure 1 Perspective view of the stepped section of the container ( Figure 9A A close-up view of the "T" area in the stepped section. Figure 9B );

[0099] Figure 10 A top perspective view of the latching unit of the container of this disclosure is shown;

[0100] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 Bottom perspective view of the latch unit;

[0101] Figures 12A-12B The side and top perspective views of the container in which the latching unit is located in the engagement position are shown respectively;

[0102] Figures 13A-13B The side and top perspective views of the container in which the latch unit is in the disengaged position are shown respectively;

[0103] Figure 14 A container assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein a latching unit is disposed in an engaged position;

[0104] Figure 15 It shows Figure 14 The container assembly in which the latching unit is positioned in the disengaged position;

[0105] Figure 16A It shows Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the container assembly shows the engagement of the locking tab of the latch unit with the protrusion of the first container;

[0106] Figure 16B It shows Figure 14 Another cross-sectional view of the container assembly shows the engagement between the extension member of the second container and the teeth of the latch unit connected to the first container;

[0107] Figure 17A An example of a container component according to another embodiment of this disclosure is shown;

[0108] Figure 17B The latch unit is shown in the bottom perspective view. Figure 17A A close-up view of the interface area of ​​the second container of the component;

[0109] Figure 18 Another exemplary container component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0110] Figure 19 Another exemplary container component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0111] Figure 20 Another exemplary container component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0112] Figure 21 A top perspective view of another container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0113] Figures 22A-22B They are shown respectively Figure 21 Top and bottom perspective views of the container lid;

[0114] Figures 23A-23B It shows Figures 22A-22B Perspective view of the lid ( Figure 23A A close-up view of the "U" area of ​​the cover. Figure 23B );

[0115] Figures 24A-24B It shows Figures 22A-22B Top perspective view of the lid ( Figure 24A A close-up view of the "V" area of ​​the cover. Figure 24B );

[0116] Figures 24C-24D It shows Figures 22A-22BBottom perspective view of the lid ( Figure 24C A close-up view of the "W" area of ​​the cover. Figure 24D );

[0117] Figure 25 Another exemplary embodiment of the cover is illustrated;

[0118] Figure 26 Another container according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown;

[0119] Figure 27 It shows including Figure 26 Another example of a container component of a container;

[0120] Figure 28 A portable container component according to an example of this disclosure is shown;

[0121] Figure 29 It shows Figure 28 A perspective view of the pulley base of a portable container assembly;

[0122] Figures 30A-30B They are shown respectively Figure 29 Top and bottom perspective views of the pulley base;

[0123] Figures 31A-31B It shows Figure 29 Top perspective view of the pulley base ( Figure 31A A close-up view of the "L" area at the base of the pulley. Figure 31B );and

[0124] Figure 32 It shows Figure 29 Another bottom perspective view of the pulley base, including the wheel unit attached thereto. Detailed Implementation

[0125] Now for reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 This illustrates exemplary embodiments of the containers of this disclosure. For convenience, the containers are illustrated as receivers or crates configured to hold articles. The containers can be made of any suitable material, such as, but not limited to, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), or any other sufficiently rigid plastic. Furthermore, it should be understood that the containers can be of any type, shape, or size as discussed above and described herein.

[0126] Figure 1 and Figure 2A container 100 is shown in a top perspective view, and the container 100 has a substrate 101 forming a base of the container 100 and a plurality of sidewalls 102 extending upward from the substrate 101. The sidewalls 102 extend circumferentially (i.e., along the periphery of the substrate) of the substrate 101. The substrate 101, together with the sidewalls 102, defines an interior space. Therefore, it should be understood that the shape and profile of the interior space defined by the plurality of sidewalls 102 depend on the shape and profile of the substrate 101. The sidewalls 102 include sidewalls 102A, 102B, 102C, and 102D, which are collectively referred to as 102. Although the substrate is substantially rectangular in the illustrated embodiment, it should be understood that the substrate may include more than four edges, and correspondingly, the plurality of sidewalls may include more than four sidewalls.

[0127] Go to Figures 3A-3B The figures show a top perspective view of container 100 and a close-up view of a portion "P" of the container. Container 100 includes a skirt 103 that extends downward along the periphery of substrate 101 in a downward direction (e.g., in an orientation substantially perpendicular to substrate 101). This configuration of the skirt 103 ensures that direct contact between substrate 101 and the floor is avoided when container 100 is placed on a floor / ground.

[0128] The container 100 also includes a first edge 104 that extends outward along the lower portion of the periphery of the plurality of sidewalls 102, thereby defining a bead-like or band-like structure therearound. Figures 4A-4B As shown, the first edge 104 is generally L-shaped and extends circumferentially along the lower portion of the plurality of sidewalls 102. The generally L-shaped edge is typically formed by two portions perpendicular to each other: a first portion 104A, which extends substantially perpendicular to the plurality of sidewalls 102; and a second portion 104B, which extends from and substantially perpendicular to the first portion 104A. The first edge 104 is configured to support the container 100 when it is placed on and stacked on another container, wherein the other container has a configuration substantially similar to that of the container 100. The first edge 104 is configured to function as a load-bearing member when the container 100 is placed on and stacked on another container.

[0129] Container 100 also includes a second edge 105 defined along the upper portions of a plurality of sidewalls 102 and extending circumferentially outward from and away from the upper portions of the plurality of sidewalls. Typically, the second edge 105 is substantially perpendicular to the sidewalls 102. The second edge 105 is configured to support another container (of substantially a similar configuration to container 100) to rest and stack on container 100. During such stacking, the second edge 105 engages and supports a first edge of the other container when stacked on top of it. The second edge 105 may be planar in profile to support the resting of the first edge of the other container to be stacked thereon.

[0130] The container 100 also includes one or more stepped sections 106 defined in the upper portions of the plurality of sidewalls 102 and at the middle portion of the second edge 105. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, one or more stepped sections 106 are defined on a first sidewall 102A and a second sidewall 102B opposite to each other. However, in other arrangements (not shown), one or more stepped sections 106 may be defined on more than two sidewalls or all four sidewalls. The stepped sections 106 are configured to removably receive latching units 150, wherein such latching units 150 are configured to detachably attach another container to container 100 during container stacking, as will be further described below.

[0131] like Figure 5 As shown, each stepped section 106 includes a main flange 107 and a pair of auxiliary flanges 108. The main flange 107 extends outwardly from and perpendicular to a plurality of sidewalls 102. The auxiliary flanges 108 extend downward from the main flange 107 and along at least one of the sidewalls 102, defining a space between the main flange 107 and at least one of the sidewalls 102. The pair of auxiliary flanges 108 are suitably spaced apart to receive at least a portion of a latching unit 150 coupled to the container 100, as will be explained.

[0132] like Figures 6A-6B As shown, the main flange 107 includes one or more protrusions 109 and at least one groove 112 defined on the upper surface of the main flange 107. The protrusions 109 and the groove 112 may be capsule-shaped, and the groove 112 may be substantially longer than the length of the protrusions 109. The groove 112 may be configured as a hook or locking member for receiving a cap (not shown), which may be provided on the top of the container to restrict access to the interior space of the container.

[0133] like Figures 7A-7BAs can be seen more clearly, each protrusion 109 may have a rounded corner 109A, which is configured to facilitate the sliding and engagement of the locking tab 154 (attached to the latch unit 150 of the container 100) with the protrusion 109.

[0134] Figure 8A A bottom perspective view of the stepped section 106 of the container 100 is shown. Each stepped section 106 includes an angled pin 110 (in... Figure 8C (As seen in a close-up view), pins 110 are defined on the inner surface 115 of each auxiliary flange 108. Angled pins 110 extend inwardly from a pair of auxiliary flanges 108 toward each other, generally collinear (i.e., positioned along an imaginary straight line). Each pin 110 is configured to engage with a hole 151 in the latching unit 150, as shown in the close-up view. Figure 8B As shown in the figure. Pin 110 may include an inclined portion 110A and a flat portion 110B (as shown in the figure). Figure 8C (Best seen in the middle). These parts (110A, 110B) guide and facilitate the attachment of latch unit 150 to container 100, as will be explained below.

[0135] As in Figure 1 and Figure 2 As can also be seen, the container 100 includes one or more extending members 111 extending from the lower portion of the skirt 103. Figures 9A-9B As best seen, the extension member 111 extends away from the bottom portion of the skirt 103 and is substantially parallel to the first edge 104. The extension member 111 extends from a portion slightly above the bottommost edge of the skirt 103, thereby ensuring that the extension member 111 is placed on the floor when the container 100 is not under load. That is, the skirt 103 bears the load while protecting the extension member 111 from breakage, wear, and damage. Each extension member 111 defines a slot 111A, which is configured to engage with a latching unit 150 of another container, as explained in the following paragraphs. Although a pair of extension members are included in the illustrated embodiment of the container, it should be understood that a container may include only one extension member or more than two such extension members 111.

[0136] Figure 10 and Figure 11Top and bottom perspective views of the latching unit 150 are shown respectively. The latching unit 150 includes a housing 152 that can be received in a stepped portion 106 of the container 100. The length, width, profile, and other dimensional parameters of the latching unit 150 can be suitably configured to be received in the stepped portion 106 of the container 100. The housing 152 is a generally C-shaped elongated body extending between a first end 156A and a second end 156B, and includes an angled edge 156 that extends along the upper portion of the housing 152 between the two ends 156A, 156B. At least a portion of the angled edge 156 may have a generally V-shaped profile, such as... Figure 16A As shown; however, the portion with angled edge 156 may have any other suitable profile, such as, but not limited to, a U-shaped profile (not shown).

[0137] The housing 152 includes a pair of lips 153, each lip 153 defining a hole 151 configured to receive an angled pin 110 defined on the inner surface 115 of each of a pair of auxiliary flanges 108. During engagement of the latching unit 150 to the container 100, the angled portion 110A and the flat portion 110B of the pin 110 guide the lip 153 to curve slightly inward and slide smoothly over the angled pin 110. Upon contact with the flat portion 110B, the lip 153 gradually returns to its original position (curved backward) and snaps back into the locked state, thereby engaging the latching unit 150 to the container 100. This configuration of the angled pin facilitates attachment of the latching unit 150 to the container 100. The latch unit 150 is locked to the container 100, and more specifically, is rotatably coupled to the container 100 by means of a hole 151 connected to an angled pin 110.

[0138] Edge 156 includes one or more locking tabs 154 extending downward from the bottom surface of edge 156 and configured to engage a protrusion 109 defined on the upper surface of main flange 107. Thus, the number of locking tabs 154 may correspond to the number of protrusions 109. During engagement of latch unit 150 with container 100, the locking tabs 154 contact the outward face of protrusion 109, gradually slide over fillet 109A, and lock downward with the inward face of protrusion 109. Edge 156 also includes a plurality of teeth 155 extending downward from the bottom surface of edge 156. At least one tooth 155 is configured to cover and engage a groove 111A defined in an extension member 111 of another container, such that when latch unit 150 engages container 100, latch unit 150 is rotatably coupled to stepped section 106. In this rotatable engagement state, the latch unit 150 can move between the engaged position 113 and the disengaged position 114. Figures 12A-13B In engagement position 113, latch unit 150 detachably secures another container to container 100.

[0139] The container assembly 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is in Figures 14-15 The diagram shows, and includes, a first container 100A and a second container 100B stacked on top of container assembly 200. Containers 100A and 100B have a configuration similar to that of container 100 and, in this specific example, have the same footprint. As used herein, the term "footprint" refers to the dimensions of a container, which include, but are not limited to, parameters such as, but not limited to, length, width, height, and volume.

[0140] exist Figure 14 In the middle, latching units 150A and 150B are in the engaged position 113, while... Figure 15 In the middle, latching units 150A and 150B are in the disengaged position 114. Figure 14 In this configuration, the latching unit 150A is rotatably connected to the stepped section 106 of the first container 100A and is movable between an engaged position 113 and a disengaged position 114. For example... Figure 14 As shown, in engagement position 113, the detachably mounted latching unit 150A secures the second container 100B to the first container 100B. In assembly 200, latching unit 150A is mounted on the first container 100A by engaging an angled pin 110 of the first container 100A through a hole 151 of latching unit 150A. Similarly, latching unit 150B is mounted on the second container 100B by engaging an angled pin 110 of the second container 100B through a hole 151 of latching unit 150B. Latching unit 150B will be used when a third container (not shown) is stacked on top of the second container 100B. Latching units 150A and 150B have a configuration similar to that of latching unit 150 as described above.

[0141] The locking tab 154 of the latching unit 150A is configured to engage with one or more protrusions 109 defined on the upper surface of the main flange 107 of the first container 100A. This engagement... Figure 16A As shown in the cross-sectional view. Furthermore, at least one tooth 155 of the latching unit 150A covers and engages with the slot 111A, which is defined within the extension member 111 of the second container 100B, as... Figure 16BAs shown. The hinge between the latching unit 150A and the containers 100A, 100B (specifically, the engagement between the locking tab 154 of the latching unit 150A and the protrusion 109 of the first container 100A, and the engagement between the tooth 155 of the latching unit 150A and the slot 111A of the extension member 111 of the second container 100B) causes the second container 100B to be detachably stacked on the first container 100A.

[0142] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the container assembly 300 is in Figures 17A-17B As shown in the diagram. In this example, second containers 120A and 120B (collectively referred to as 120) are stacked on top of first container 100A and occupy approximately half the space of first container 100A. In assembly 300, locking tab 154 of latch unit 150A engages with protrusion 109 of first container 100A, as shown in the diagram. Figure 17B A close-up view is shown. Figure 17B Two locking tabs 154 visible in the middle engage with the protrusions 109 of the first container 100A, and the teeth 155 of the latching unit 150A engage with the grooves 111A of the extension members 111 of the second containers 120A and 120B.

[0143] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the container assembly 350 is in Figure 18 As shown in the diagram. In assembly 350, a second container 120, stacked on top of the first container 100A, occupies approximately half the space of the first container 100A and is centrally positioned on top of the first container 100A. In this position, in the engagement position 113 of the latch unit 150A, the locking tab 154 of the latch unit 150A engages with the protrusion 109 of the first container 100A, and the teeth 155 of the latch unit 150A engage with the slot 111A of the extension member 111 of the second container 120. More specifically, in the engagement position 113 of the latch unit 150A, while one tooth 155 on one side of the locking tab 154 engages with the slot 111A of the extension member 111 of the second container 120, another tooth 155 on the other side of the locking tab 154 engages with the slot 111A of the extension member 111 of the second container 120. Therefore, the remaining teeth 155 on both sides of the locking tab 154 will not engage with the second container 120. Furthermore, the groove 111A defined in the extension member 111 of the second container 120 will aid in the centering of the second container 120 when engaging with the teeth 155 (e.g., Figure 18 (as shown) or offset positioning (such as) Figure 17A (As shown).

[0144] In component 400, such as Figure 19As shown, each of the first container 100A and the second container 100B is configured to accommodate a plurality of smaller (“mini”) space-consuming containers 130. Figure 20 Another example of such an arrangement of containers with smaller footprints is shown, relating to container assembly 500 and various space-consuming containers 130, 140.

[0145] Figure 21 A container unit 600 is shown, comprising a container 100 and a lid 157 configured to be removably attached to the container to cover the interior space of the container 100.

[0146] Figures 22A-24D A lid 157 in a freestanding state is shown. The construction and configuration of lid 157 are similar to those of the lower portion of container 100, facilitating attachment of lid 157 to the second edge 105 of container 100. Similar to container 100, lid 157 includes a base plate 101A and a skirt 103A, the skirt 103A extending downwardly along the periphery of base plate 101A. Figures 23A-23B As can be seen, the cover 157 includes one or more extension members 111A' extending from the lower portion of the skirt 103A, and is configured to resemble the reference. Figures 14-16B The manner depicted and described engages with the latch unit 150 of the container 100. However, the cover 157 includes a flange 162 extending upward and outward from the substrate 101A and along the periphery of the substrate 101A. (As...) Figures 24A-24D As can be seen, flange 162 is substantially U-shaped and comprises three parts: a first part 162A extending upward from substrate 101A, a second part 162B extending outward from and substantially perpendicular to the first part 162A, and a third part 162C extending downward from the second part 162B. The third part 162C may be substantially parallel to the first part 162A. Flange 162 defines a bead-like or strip-like structure to facilitate a tight fit between flange 162 and the second edge 105 of container 100. Flange 162 may also include a plurality of ribs 162D extending between the first part 162A and the third part 162C for reinforcing flange 162.

[0147] Another configuration of the lid is in Figure 25 As shown in the figure. The cover 157A is similar in structure and configuration to the cover 157, but also includes an upwardly extending handle 158 to facilitate lifting the container unit 600 when the cover 157A is attached to the container 100. The handle 158 extends from a ridge 158A defined on the substrate 101A and can be centrally positioned on the substrate 101A.

[0148] Figures 26-27The container 650 shown is similar in construction and configuration to the container 100 as described above; however, it also includes an opening 167 (e.g., in the side wall 102D of the container). The inclusion of the opening 167 provides access to the interior space of the container 650 without having to remove the container 100.

[0149] Figure 28 A portable container assembly 700 is shown, wherein a second container 100B is mounted on a first container 100A and connected to the first container 100A via a latching unit 150A. The second container 100B is provided with a lid 157A, which is connected to the second container 100B by means of the latching unit 150B. The latching units 150A and 150B have a configuration similar to that of latching unit 150, as described herein. The portable container assembly 700 also includes a pulley base 159 connectable to the first container 100A, the pulley base 159 being configured to facilitate movement of the portable container assembly 700.

[0150] Figures 29-32 A pulley base 159 is shown. The pulley base 159 includes a base plate 101B and a plurality of sidewalls 102A', 102B', 102C', and 102D' extending from the base plate 101B. An edge 105B extends circumferentially outward along the upper portion of the sidewalls and away from the plurality of sidewalls 102A'-102D'.

[0151] from Figures 30A-30B As can be seen (showing pulley base 159 without latch unit 150B' and wheel), sidewalls 102A'-102D' extend upward and downward relative to substrate 101B. Substrate 101B may include window 163 defined in a central region of substrate 101B by a collar 164 extending circumferentially along inner edge 165 of substrate 101B. Pulley base 159 includes one or more stepped sections 106B defined in the upper portion of at least one of the sidewalls 102A'-102D' and may be defined at the middle portion of edge 105B. Stepped sections 106B are configured to removably receive latch unit 150B' during stacking of containers 100A, 100B to form portable container assembly 700. Latch unit 150B' has a configuration similar to latch unit 150, as described above.

[0152] The stepped section 106B of the pulley base 159 has a similar structure and configuration to the stepped section 106 of the container 100. The main flange 107B of the stepped section 106B includes one or more protrusions 109B defined on the upper surface of the main flange 107B.

[0153] The pulley base 159 also includes a plurality of grooves 161 defined in the lower portion of the base plate 101B. Each groove 161 is configured to receive a wheel 160. The pulley base 159 may also include one or more transverse members 166 extending between the collar 164 and each groove 161. The transverse members 166 may be configured to impart structural rigidity to the region of the pulley base 159 defining the grooves 161. The pulley base 159, including the wheel 160 housed therein, makes the portable container assembly 700 movable, and thus truly constitutes the portable container assembly 700.

Claims

1. A container, characterized in that, The container includes: A substrate and a plurality of sidewalls extending upward from the substrate, the substrate and the plurality of sidewalls defining an internal space; A skirt portion that extends downward along the periphery of the substrate; The first edge extends outward along the periphery of the lower portion of the plurality of sidewalls; A second edge, extending outward and away from the plurality of sidewalls, is configured to extend circumferentially along the upper portion of the plurality of sidewalls; and One or more stepped sections, defined in the upper portion of at least one of the plurality of sidewalls, are configured to receive latching units.

2. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more stepped sections include: A main flange that extends outward and is substantially perpendicular to the plurality of sidewalls; Defined on the upper surface of the main flange one or more protrusions and at least one groove; A pair of auxiliary flanges, the pair of auxiliary flanges extending downward from the main flange and along at least one of the plurality of sidewalls; and An angled pin is defined on the inner surface of each of the pair of auxiliary flanges, the angled pin of each of the pair of auxiliary flanges extending inward toward each other, and the angled pin is configured to engage with a hole in the latching unit.

3. The container according to claim 2, characterized in that, The latching unit includes: A housing capable of being received within the one or more stepped sections of the container, the housing including a pair of parallel and inwardly extending lips, each of the pair of lips defining a hole configured to receive the angled pin; and An angled edge extending between a first end and a second end of the housing, wherein the angled edge comprises: One or more locking tabs, the locking tabs extending downward from the bottom surface of the angled edge, the locking tabs being configured to engage with one or more protrusions defined on the upper surface of the main flange; and Multiple teeth, the multiple teeth extending downward from the bottom surface of the angled edge.

4. The container according to claim 3, characterized in that, The latching unit is rotatably connected to one or more stepped sections, the latching unit is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and the latching unit is configured to secure another container to the container in the engaged position.

5. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The container includes one or more extension members extending from the lower portion of the skirt, the one or more extension members extending substantially parallel to the first edge and away from the skirt, and each of the one or more extension members defining a slot configured to engage with a latching unit of another container.

6. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first edge is a generally L-shaped edge extending circumferentially along the lower portion of the plurality of sidewalls, the generally L-shaped edge including a first portion extending generally perpendicular to the plurality of sidewalls and a second portion extending generally parallel to the plurality of sidewalls.

7. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more stepped sections are defined on a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall.

8. The container according to claim 3, characterized in that, The one or more protrusions have rounded corners defined around their periphery, the rounded corners being configured to facilitate sliding and engagement of the one or more locking tabs with the one or more protrusions.

9. A container component, characterized in that, The container component includes: A first container, wherein the first container is a container according to any one of claims 1 to 8; and A second container, which is another container according to any one of claims 1 to 8, is placed and stacked on top of the first container; The latching unit is rotatably coupled to one or more stepped sections of the first container and is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position to secure the second container to the first container in the engaged position.

10. The container assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second container has the same footprint and configuration as the first container.

11. The container assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second container occupies approximately half the space of the first container.

12. The container assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, Each of the first container and the second container is configured to contain one or more half-occupied space containers.

13. The container assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, Each of the first container and the second container is configured to accommodate multiple smaller, space-consuming containers.

14. The container assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, Each of the first container and the second container is configured to contain at least one container with a different footprint and at least one container with a small footprint.

15. A container unit, characterized in that, The container unit includes: The container according to any one of claims 1 to 8; and A lid, which is removably attached to the container and configured to cover the interior space of the container when attached.

16. The container unit according to claim 15, characterized in that, The cover includes: substrate; A skirt that extends downward along the periphery of the substrate of the cover; A flange extending upward and outward from the substrate of the cover, the flange of the cover extending along the periphery of the substrate of the cover; and One or more extension members extend from the lower portion of the skirt of the cover, the one or more extension members of the cover being configured to engage with the latch unit of the container.

17. The container unit according to claim 15, characterized in that, The cover includes a handle extending upward from the base plate of the cover.

18. A portable container assembly, characterized in that, The portable container component includes: The container according to any one of claims 1 to 8; and A pulley base that can be connected to the container, the pulley base being configured to facilitate movement of the container in the connected state.

19. The portable container assembly according to claim 18, characterized in that, The pulley base includes: A substrate and a plurality of sidewalls extending from the base of the pulley; An edge that extends outward and away from the plurality of sidewalls of the pulley base, the edge being configured to extend circumferentially along the upper portion of the plurality of sidewalls of the pulley base; One or more stepped sections, defined in the upper portion of at least one of the plurality of sidewalls of the pulley base, wherein the one or more stepped sections of the pulley base are configured to receive a latching unit of the pulley base; and A plurality of slots are defined in the lower portion of the base plate of the pulley base, each of the plurality of slots being configured to receive a pulley unit.

20. The portable container assembly according to claim 19, characterized in that, The base plate of the pulley base includes a window defined in its central region, and wherein the window is defined by a collar extending circumferentially along the inner edge of the base plate of the pulley base.

21. The portable container assembly according to claim 19, characterized in that, The plurality of sidewalls of the pulley base extend upward and downward relative to the substrate of the pulley base.

22. The portable container assembly according to claim 19, characterized in that, The container includes one or more extension members extending from the lower portion of the skirt, the one or more extension members extending substantially parallel to the first edge and away from the skirt, and each of the one or more extension members defining a groove configured to engage with the latch unit of the pulley base.

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