PORTABLE LUNCHBOX

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to a lunchbox, in particular a portable lunchbox and especially for storing, transporting and preparing food. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Lunchboxes allow you to take your chosen food to work, school, or any other location and eat it as you wish. Some lunchboxes simply provide a sealed container for storage. Other types are insulated to keep food hot or cold. Lunchboxes with integrated heating elements are also available, allowing you to warm food on-site. More advanced lunchboxes even allow you to steam food.

[0003] WO 2020 / 064848 discloses such an advanced portable lunchbox for storing, transporting, and preparing food. It features a food compartment, a heating compartment for water, a heating element for warming the water, and a mechanical switching device that can be switched between two states. In the first state, the food can be warmed; in the second state, it can be steamed. This lunchbox has a base into which a food tray can be inserted, and a lid that tightly seals the base with the tray inside. Pivoting tabs, specifically flaps, are provided for a tight seal. Since they are located on the lid, they also serve to manually lift and remove the lid from the base.

[0004] WO 2015 / 177726 A1 describes a lunchbox for storing, transporting and heating food with a pressure equalization element in the top of the lid of the box.

[0005] WO 2015 / 096175 A1 shows a lunchbox for storing, transporting and heating food with a pressure relief valve located in a side wall of the base part.

[0006] EP 1 780 140 B1 discloses a container for storing and transporting foodstuffs, comprising a base and a tightly closing lid. The lid is locked by means of two U-shaped sliders. The two sliders are held on opposite sides by a circumferential rim of the lid. They engage a circumferential rim of the base and are slidable relative to each other, thus fixing the lid to the base.

[0007] EP 1 541 485 A1 shows a container, in particular for storing butter or cheese, with a base plate and a cover. The cover has a circumferential lower rim. A rocker mechanism with a locking element and two lever arms is molded onto the base plate. Pressing down on the locking element pushes the ends of the lever arms upwards and lifts the cover. This pushes the locking element outwards and releases the cover.

[0008] DE 94 08 536 U1 discloses a pressure cooker with a pressure relief opening arranged in a lid handle and adjustable by means of a sliding plate.

[0009] KR 2014 / 0076018 A discloses an airtight sealable food container with a liftable lid and a swiveling locking element.

[0010] An airtight lunchbox containing hot food isn't always easy to open, especially if the food inside has been heated. Upon opening, steam is the first thing that escapes, which at best fogs up the user's glasses and at worst scalds their fingers or other body parts. Furthermore, there's usually positive pressure inside the lunchbox, so opening it can cause liquid, especially grease, to spray out and scald the user or anyone nearby. It's also undesirable for steam or splashing liquid to soil a table surface or other items near the lunchbox.

[0011] Furthermore, the lunchbox must always be airtight during storage, transport and preparation of the food. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Therefore, one of the aims of the invention is to create a lunchbox that can be reliably sealed and opened safely and with minimal effort.

[0013] This task is solved by a lunchbox with the features of claim 1.

[0014] The lunchbox according to the invention comprises a base with a food cavity for holding food, a lid that tightly seals the base, and a closure for securing the lunchbox by fixing the lid to the base. The closure has at least one locking element that is slidable from a closed position to an open position relative to both the base and the lid. At least one lifting element is provided which, in a position of the locking element that is displaced relative to the closed position, lifts the lid from the base.

[0015] Thanks to the locking element, the lid can be securely fixed to the container. The locking element is preferably designed to exert a contact pressure, for example by pressing the lid downwards against the base. It can be designed, for example, as at least one latch or at least one hinged element.

[0016] Thanks to the lifting mechanism, the lid can be lifted, allowing it to be easily grasped by hand and the lunchbox to be fully opened. Depending on the design, this lifting occurs either when the lid is partially open or only when it is fully open. In some designs, the lifting mechanism is automatic, for example, by pivoting the lid under its own weight. Preferably, however, the lifting mechanism is manually pushed upwards or downwards to lift the lid.

[0017] In preferred embodiments, the closing element or the lifting element serves as a handle for further lifting and removing the lid. If the closing or lifting element is at least one lever, this has the advantage that the hands are further away from residual steam and hot condensation. If the closing elements, in particular the levers, are arranged on the lid, they can, in preferred embodiments, be used as handles for lifting and removing the lid.

[0018] In preferred embodiments, the locking element and the lifting element are as flush as possible with the outer contour of the rest of the lunchbox. The lunchbox preferably has no or hardly any protruding components. This makes it easy to store and transport in a bag or backpack. Furthermore, this gives the lunchbox an attractive design.

[0019] Preferably, the closing element and the lifting element are formed by the same component. In preferred embodiments, this single common component is a bracket. Preferably, two brackets are provided, each forming a closing element and a lifting element.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one closing element comprises a bracket with two arms and a bridge connecting the two arms. The bracket is displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the arms relative to the base part and the lid from the closed position to the open position. The at least one lifting element is also the bracket, wherein the bracket is pivotable in the position displaced relative to the closed position. Pivoting the bracket relative to the base part and the lid lifts the lid from the base part.

[0021] Depending on the embodiment, lifting the lid merely creates an opening between the interior of the lunchbox and the surrounding environment. In other embodiments, a gap is created between the base and the lid. In preferred embodiments, the lid, lifted by the base, at least partially releases the seal between the lid and the base, thus facilitating further lifting of the lid by hand.

[0022] If the lid is lifted while the seal is only partially open, the lunchbox cannot yet be fully opened; for example, the lid cannot yet be completely lifted from the base and removed. This has the advantage that any opening created can be kept precisely small. Any excess pressure in the container and / or steam can escape in a controlled manner until the container is fully opened, without the risk of scalding the user. Depending on the design, the steam escapes either exclusively through the released seal between the base and the lid, or, in other designs, exclusively through an air vent and / or a pressure relief valve. Further designs combine these two methods, allowing the steam to escape through various openings.

[0023] If the lid is only lifted when the lock is fully open, a clearly identifiable position is reached. The user can then wait until enough steam has escaped. However, if there is unheated food in the container and no overpressure or steam is present, the user does not need to wait unnecessarily but can remove the lid very quickly. Thanks to the lid's lifting mechanism, the lock allows it to be removed from the base with minimal effort.

[0024] In preferred embodiments, the lunchbox has at least one air passage opening that leads from an interior of the base part to the outside, wherein the at least one closing element in the closed position tightly closes the at least one air passage opening and wherein the at least one closing element in a position displaced with respect to the closed position releases the at least one air passage opening.

[0025] This air vent allows for an optimally tight seal of the lid. When closing the lid, even after it has been sealed with the sealing ring in place on the base, air can still escape from inside the lunchbox. This makes closing the lid easier.

[0026] Furthermore, thanks to this air vent, hot air or steam can escape even before the lid is lifted. Since the closing mechanism releases this opening, but the user's hands hold the closing mechanism in place while opening, scalding of the user is optimally prevented. This is especially true if the closing mechanism is a bar.

[0027] If there is a vacuum inside the lunchbox, the air vent allows pressure equalization before the lid is fully opened or removed.

[0028] Preferably, at least one air passage opening is arranged in the lid, preferably leading from the interior of the lunchbox to the outside. This creates a simple and easily closable connection between the inside and the environment.

[0029] In preferred embodiments, the lunchbox has, as an alternative or additional feature to the air vent, at least one pressure relief valve leading from an interior space of the base to the outside, wherein the pressure relief valve is covered by at least one closing element, at least in the closed position. Unlike the air vent, the pressure relief valve is preferably not tightly sealed, but merely covered. This ensures that it is always ready for use, even when the lunchbox is completely closed. However, it is protected by the closing element and cannot be damaged or soiled, particularly during transport of the lunchbox. Furthermore, escaping steam is distributed along the closing element and thus cannot scald a user carrying the lunchbox with a concentrated burst of steam. This is especially true if the closing element is a clasp.

[0030] Preferably, the at least one pressure relief valve is arranged in the lid and preferably leads from the food cavity to the outside.

[0031] In preferred embodiments, the at least one locking element, in particular the shackle, is held on the lid. The lid preferably has a guide that directs the displacement and pivoting of the at least one locking element. The guide is preferably formed by projecting ribs and / or grooves and / or ramps and / or projections.

[0032] The seal is improved and optimally ensured in embodiments where the at least one closing element, in particular the shackle, rests on a projection or step of the lid. This contact allows the lid to be pressed tightly onto the base part in the closed position.

[0033] A single locking element is sufficient, particularly, but not exclusively, if the lid is pivotally held on the base part on an opposite side. Preferably, however, the closure has two locking elements, in particular two clips, which are slidable along the longitudinal direction of their arms relative to the base part and the lid, with the locking elements sealingly fixing the lid to the base part when pushed towards each other. Preferably, the two locking elements are identical in shape and size and can preferably be pushed together to form a common rim around the lid and / or the base part, thus creating a circumferential band around the lunchbox. They can preferably be pulled apart in opposite directions, so that they preferably move simultaneously relative to the lid and the base part.The pivoting action also preferably occurs simultaneously, or, if generated manually, can preferably occur simultaneously. Preferably, they lift the lid together with their adjacent free ends, with their more distant webs preferably inclined downwards.

[0034] The use of two locking mechanisms, especially two latches, also allows the lunchbox to be opened safely, even when held in the hand and not resting on a surface. This makes it easier to use, for example, on a park bench, at a picnic, on a train, on an airplane, or in other means of transport.

[0035] The lunchbox, in its simplest form, is designed for storing and transporting food. Depending on the model, it is insulated and suitable for chilled and hot foods.

[0036] In preferred embodiments, the lunchbox is designed for heating, and even more preferably for preparing, food. In highly preferred embodiments, it is designed for storing, transporting, and preparing food, the preparation preferably being carried out either by heating alone or by steaming, i.e., by applying steam. Such a lunchbox is disclosed, for example, in WO 2020 / 064848 A1. The lunchbox according to the invention is preferably a further development of this and, apart from the closure and the elements functionally associated therewith, preferably has the same or similar components.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the lunchbox according to the invention therefore has a heating element for warming and / or preparing food. Preferably, it has a water cavity for filling with water, with the heating element acting on the water cavity. By heating water in the water cavity, the food in the food cavity can be warmed.

[0038] Preferably, a gap is formed between the food cavity and the base, allowing steam to pass from the water cavity into the food cavity and thus steam the food. The lunchbox therefore acts as a steamer. The gap or access point can preferably be opened and closed by the user at will.

[0039] The optional use as a steamer can be achieved, for example, by placing the lid in a first rotating position so that it seals the gap with respect to the food cavity when the closure is closed, and by placing the lid in a second rotating position so that it leaves the gap with respect to the food cavity open when the closure is closed.

[0040] Preferably, the food cavity is sealed against the water cavity in the first rotational position of the lid and connected to the water cavity in the second rotational position of the lid for the purpose of steaming the food.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the base part has a first and a second guide, wherein, when the at least one closing element, in particular the lever, is moved, the at least one closing element is guided by the first guide or by the second guide of the base part, depending on the rotational position of the lid. This ensures, in both rotational positions, that the lid is held tightly on the base part and, depending on the embodiment of the closure, that the desired contact pressure for a sufficient seal is present.

[0042] Further embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0043] In one embodiment, the lunchbox comprises a base with a food cavity for holding food, a lid that tightly seals the base, a closure for securing the lunchbox by fixing the lid to the base, and an air vent and / or a pressure relief valve. When the lunchbox is closed, the closure covers the air vent and / or the pressure relief valve, and when the lunchbox is open, it exposes the air vent and / or the pressure relief valve. This allows steam to escape and / or excess pressure to be released as soon as the closure is opened, i.e., before the lid is fully opened. This prevents steam or liquids from escaping uncontrollably, thus preventing splashes onto the user's hand and consequently, scalding.In the case of air passage openings, sealing the openings very late during the closing process allows for easy closing and an optimally tight seal of the lunchbox.

[0044] The sliding and swiveling handles described here are used in this lunchbox. The other preferred features mentioned above can also be implemented in this lunchbox.

[0045] Preferably, the lunchbox according to the invention is designed to be portable.

[0046] The following are terms used throughout this text. The term "preparation" generally refers to the heating of a finished dish. A dish can generally be heated by applying heat, either through heat transfer and / or by adding steam, such as steam. In a broader sense, "preparation" here also refers to cooking, or simmering, food, for example, boiling potatoes or vegetables until tender. Some embodiments of the invention only allow for heating the food, while others additionally allow for cooking or simmering.

[0047] Steaming, also known as steaming, is an increasingly popular cooking method, not only because of its health benefits. A steamer can be used to reheat food or, with a longer heat source, to cook it. This method is commonly called steam cooking. The main advantage of heating with a steamer is that the food doesn't dry out.

[0048] For the purposes of this text, a tight seal is one that is so liquid- and gas-tight that, depending on the intended use of the lunchbox, it meets the requirements for storing, transporting, and preparing food.

[0049] In preferred embodiments, the lunchbox lid has a tightly sealed opening to the food cavity. This opening can be opened to release any vacuum in the food cavity. Preferably, the tight seal can be opened manually and / or it opens automatically when a predetermined vacuum is reached in the food cavity. This ensures that the lunchbox lid can be lifted from the cavity even under vacuum, allowing access to the food. The seal is preferably a plug that can be removed manually or a valve that can be activated manually and / or automatically. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] A preferred embodiment of the invention is described below with reference to the drawings, which serve only for illustration and are not to be interpreted restrictively. The drawings show: Figure 1 is an exploded view of a lunchbox according to the invention; Figure 2 is a perspective view of the lunchbox according to the invention. Figure 1 in the closed state; Figure 3 shows a view of the lunchbox according to Figure 2 from the front; Figure 4 a side view of the lunchbox according to Figure 2 Figure 5 shows a section of the lunchbox according to Figure 3 along BB; Figure 6 shows a section of the lunchbox according to Figure 4 along CC; Figure 7, a perspective view of the lunchbox according to Figure 1 with the lid partially open; Figure 8 shows a view of the lunchbox according to Figure 7 From the front with the lid raised; Figure 9 shows a side view of the lunchbox according to Figure 7 Figure 10 shows a section of the lunchbox according to Figure 8 along BB; Figure 11 a section of the lunchbox according to Figure 9 along CC; Figure 12 a view of the lunchbox according to Figure 1 in a position for steaming; Figure 13 a side view of the lunchbox according to Figure 12Figure 14 shows a section of the lunchbox according to Figure 12 along BB; Figure 15 a section of the lunchbox according to Figure 13 along CC; Figure 16 a perspective view of the lunchbox according to Figure 1 in steam position with lid raised; Figure 17 an exploded view of a lid and a closure of the lunchbox according to Figure 1 Figure 18 shows a perspective view of a basic part of the lunchbox according to Figure 1 Figure 19 shows a perspective view of a detail of the base part according to Figure 18 Figure 20 shows a view of the base part according to Figure 18 From the front; Figure 21, a perspective view of a latch of the lunchbox closure according to Figure 1 Figure 22 shows another perspective view of a stirrup according to Figure 21 Figure 23: a perspective, partially glass-enclosed representation of the lunchbox according to Figure 8with only part of the closure; Figure 24 a perspective view of a detail of the lunchbox according to Figure 23 Figure 25 shows a view of a variant of the lunchbox according to Figure 2 From the front; Figure 26, a perspective view of a lunchbox plug according to Figure 25 and Figure 27 a side view of the plug according to Figure 26 . DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0051] Figure 1 Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a portable lunchbox according to the invention, which is suitable for storing, transporting and preparing food.

[0052] This lunchbox is a further development of the lunchbox according to WO 2020 / 064848 A1. With this inventive lunchbox, it is also possible to choose whether the food should merely be heated or additionally steamed.

[0053] The heating unit, electronics, and control system of the lunchbox according to the invention are preferably designed in the same way as described in WO 2020 / 064848 A1. This text explicitly refers to that design. Other parts of the lunchbox, which may not be described in detail here, are also preferably designed as described in WO 2020 / 064848 A1.

[0054] The lunchbox according to the invention, as shown in the figures, has a base part 2 that is open at the top and a lid 1 that closes this base part 2. A food cavity 40 is formed in the base part 2 for holding the food. The food cavity 40 can, as shown here, consist of a single compartment or it can be divided into two or more sections. The food cavity 40 is preferably formed by a tray 4 that is inserted into the base part 2. The tray 4 is preferably easily removable by hand from the base part 2, so that the food can be eaten directly from the tray after its removal.

[0055] Preferably, the shell 4 is designed as described in detail in WO 2020 / 064848 A1. The shell 4 preferably has a circumferential upper rim 41 which forms an outwardly projecting flange ( Figures 5 and 6 ).

[0056] The base part 2, if the lunchbox is also designed for heating and / or steaming, preferably has an operating button 250 and a function indicator 251, which are shown by way of example in Figure 1 shown are

[0057] The lid 1 can be placed on the base 2. The lid 1 can preferably be completely removed from the base 2. The base 2 is preferably approximately cuboid in shape. The lid 1 is as flat as possible. This allows several lunchboxes to be stacked on top of each other.

[0058] The lid 1 can be fixed to the container 2 by means of a closure 3. The closure 3 has two clips 30, 31. The clips 30, 31 can also be called clips.

[0059] The individual elements of the lid 1, the base part 2, and the closure 3 will be described later in the text using the following examples: Figure 1 and further characters.

[0060] In Figure 2The lunchbox is shown in its first tightly closed state. In this state, the lunchbox can be transported and the food stored inside can be kept warm or heated to a desired temperature. Figures 3 and 4 show the lunchbox in the same condition.

[0061] In the Figures 5 and 6 The internal structure of the lunchbox is visible. The base part 2 preferably has an almost flat underside and preferably feet 202. This ensures a secure stand on table surfaces or other flat surfaces.

[0062] As in Figure 1 As can be clearly seen, the base part 2 has a lower section 20 and an upper section 21 that is offset inwards by a step 200. The two sections 20, 21 are preferably formed together in one piece.

[0063] in the Figures 5 and 6 It is clearly evident that the base part 2 preferably has a double wall, with a space between the outer casing and an inner wall 26 preferably being hollow. This chamber is designated by reference numeral 260 in the figures. The inner wall 26 forms a receiving area for the shell 4. The shell 4 preferably rests in its lower region on ribs arranged in the base part 2, which are not visible here. Its upper edge 41 preferably terminates at a distance from the upper edge of the base part 2. The shell 4 extends at a distance from the inner wall 26, so that a space 270 is formed between the inner wall 26 and the shell 4.

[0064] The base part 2 forms a cavity beneath the shell 4, which serves as a water cavity 27. This water cavity 27 can be filled with water once the shell 4 has been removed from the base part 2. Depending on the embodiment, it can also be filled with the shell 4 in place.

[0065] The water cavity 27, also called the heating cavity, is closed at the bottom by an inner base which contains an electronics and heating unit 8. This arrangement is preferably identical or similar to that described in WO 2020 / 064848 A1 and is therefore not discussed in detail here. It comprises at least one heating element, a control unit, and preferably at least one temperature sensor 81, the temperature sensor 81 preferably projecting into the water cavity 27. It serves to monitor the water temperature in the water cavity 27. It transmits its measured values ​​to the control unit, which controls the heating element accordingly.

[0066] The cover 1 can be formed in one piece. Preferably, it has a frame 11 into which a cover plate 10 is inserted. The cover plate 10 is preferably flat, at least on its upper outer surface.

[0067] Below the cover plate 10, the frame 11 forms a wall 13, preferably curved downwards. The space between the cover plate 10 and the curved wall 13 forms a chamber 14, which is, for example, hollow. Alternatively, it is filled with an insulating material or an insulating gas, or it is evacuated.

[0068] Frame 11 has a horizontally extending, circumferential step 110. This is in the Figure 1Clearly visible. On the outside of each of the two longer side walls of the frame 11, a projecting ramp 12 is formed. The ramps 12 are mirror-symmetrical with respect to a central horizontal area. They thus form an ascending and a descending ramp area. The central horizontal area forms a groove 120. The ramp 12 is in Figure 1 The groove 120 is clearly visible in Figure 5 .

[0069] As in Figure 1 As can be seen, two protruding knobs 15 are arranged on the frame 11 below the ramp 12. Preferably, they are formed integrally with the frame 11, like the ramps 12.

[0070] Furthermore, on the shorter sides of the frame 11, two outwardly and downwardly projecting spacers 16 are arranged or molded on each side. The spacers 16 on the first side are not positioned in the same location as the spacers 16 on the opposite second side.

[0071] The base part 2 has 21 laterally projecting guide ribs 22, 23 in its upper region. The first guide ribs 22 are located centrally on the longer side. The second guide ribs are located in the rounded transition between the longer and shorter sides. The first and second guide ribs 22, 23 each form two guide channels, the use of which will be described later.

[0072] The second guide ribs 23 each have a break 230 in their upper channels in the upper region 21. The breaks 230 on one side are arranged at a different location than the breaks 230 on the other side. This is, for example, in the Figures 18 to 20 clearly visible.

[0073] The cover 1 can be placed on the base part 2 in two rotational positions. In the first rotational position, the spacers 16 engage in the recesses 230. The frame 11 of the cover 1 rests with its lower circumferential edge on the middle upper edge 231 of the second guide ribs 23. This is in Figure 6 clearly visible.

[0074] If the cover is rotated by 180°, the spacers 16 can no longer engage in the breaks 230 due to their different arrangement. They rest adjacent to these breaks on the upper edge of the second guide ribs 23. Preferably, the upper edge in this area 232 is slightly wider than the rest of the upper edge of the second guide rib 23. This wider design is in Figure 19 Clearly visible. In this second rotation position of the lid 1, the lower edge of the frame 11 ends spaced apart from the upper edge of the guide ribs 22, 23. The lid 1 is thus positioned higher than in the first rotation position, and the resulting chamber inside the lunchbox is therefore larger. This is shown in the Figures 12 to 15 depicted.

[0075] In other embodiments, the cutouts 230 and the spacers 16 can additionally or alternatively be formed on the longer sides of the base part 2 or the cover 1, respectively. In further embodiments, some or all of the cutouts are arranged in the cover and some or all of the spacers are arranged in the base part.

[0076] On the outside of the base part 2, a circumferential first seal 6 is arranged, here in the form of a sealing ring. A downward-facing, circumferential second seal 7, also here in the form of a sealing ring, is arranged in the lid 1. As shown in the Figures 5 and 6 As can be seen, the first seal 6 seals against the inner circumferential side wall of the frame 11. This applies not only to the ones in the Figures 5 and 6 The first rotational position of the lid 1 shown, but also the second rotational position, which is shown in the Figures 12 to 15 is shown.

[0077] The second seal 7 rests tightly on the upper edge 41 of the tray 4 in the first rotation position of the lid 1. This creates a sealed separation between the food cavity 40 and the free space 270, as well as the water cavity 27. In this state, the lunchbox serves to warm or heat food without the addition of steam, as well as for transport and storage. This is in the Figures 5 and 6 clearly visible.

[0078] In the second rotation position of the lid 1, the second seal 7 ends spaced from the upper edge 41 of the tray 4. This is in the Figure 14 and 15 It is evident that an open connection between water cavity 40 and food cavity 27 is created via the free space 270. In this second state, which remains tightly sealed to the outside, the lunchbox serves not only to heat the food but also to supply steam, i.e., to steam it.

[0079] By simply turning the lid 1, the user can choose whether to prepare the food by warming or heating it, or whether to steam it. The first turning position of the lid 1 also serves for storage and transport, as in this case the tray 4 is sealed from the rest of the interior of the lunchbox.

[0080] The rotation position can be labeled on the lid so that the user can easily identify the position. However, this is not strictly necessary. As can be seen by comparing the Figures 3 and 12 The user can also recognize the position and thus the operational readiness of the lunchbox by the distance of the brackets 30, 31 from the base part 2, i.e. by the presence or absence of a horizontally circumferential gap.

[0081] In Figure 7The inventive lunchbox is shown in its first rotation position and in a partially open state. To open it, the two handles 30, 31 are pulled in horizontal, opposite directions. To make it easy to grip the handles 30, 31 by hand, a recess 24 is provided in the base part 2 and a recess 300, 310 is provided in the handles. This is shown in the Figure 1 and 2 recognizable.

[0082] If the brackets 30, 31 are pulled out further, they reach a point where they can be tilted downwards by slight manual pressure. In other embodiments, they tilt downwards automatically due to their own weight. This is described in the Figures 8 and 9 recognizable. In Figure 16 The same situation is depicted, except that here the lid 1 is in the second rotation position.

[0083] As in the Figures 10 and 11As shown, the lid 1 is lifted due to the folding down of the brackets 30, 31. The brackets 30, 31 remain in this position due to their own weight. The lid 1 remains in the raised position because it rests against or against the seal. The user can now lift the lid 1 at a convenient time and expose the food cavity containing the prepared food. The lid 1 can preferably be completely removed from the base 2, and the tray 4 can then be lifted out of the base 2. The same applies to the lunchbox when the lid 1 is in the second rotation position, as shown in Figure 16 is shown.

[0084] As in Figure 1As shown, the lid 1 has two openings in the middle area of ​​one of its longer side walls. One of the openings is a simple through-hole into the interior of the lunchbox and serves as an air outlet 51. The other opening is equipped with a pressure relief valve 50. The pressure relief valve 50 has a Figure 17The visible valve seat 500 and a valve diaphragm 501 are shown. Preferably, the pressure relief valve 50 is a simple diaphragm umbrella valve. However, other valve types can also be used. In this example, the air passage opening 51 is arranged on a wedge formed on the cover 1, with the surface having the air passage opening 51 facing an end face of the first bracket 30. A seal 9, here in the form of a soft plug, is arranged in the first bracket 30. The second bracket 31 also has a seal 9, preferably of the same design. However, it is located on the opposite longitudinal side with respect to the cover 1. This is shown in the Figure 1 , 17 , 21 and 22recognizable. On the opposite longitudinal side of the cover 1, there is another wedge with an air passage opening 51, this opening facing the second bracket 31. In this example, there is no pressure relief valve 50 on this opposite side. This opposite side is in Figure 16 visible. Alternatively, more than two air passage openings 51 can be formed. Other embodiments have only a single air passage opening 51. Furthermore, there may be no pressure relief valve 50 or more than one pressure relief valve 50. If more than one pressure relief valve 50 is present, they can open at the same overpressure or, in other embodiments, they open at different overpressures, i.e., in stages.

[0085] When closing the latches 30, 31, the air passage openings 51 are preferably sealed only shortly before complete closure. This allows air to escape from the interior of the lunchbox during the closing process, thus facilitating the closing action.

[0086] As in the Figures 7, 8 and 16 As can be seen, the air passage openings 51 are released when the brackets 30, 31 are moved. In the closed state, the seals 9 held on the brackets 30, 31 are in a sealing position against the air passage openings 51. By releasing these air passage openings 51, steam and hot air can now escape from the interior of the lunchbox. This occurs even when the brackets 30, 31 are moved horizontally according to Figure 7 and especially if the lid 1 is folded down with the brackets 30, 31 according to the Figure 8 and 16The lid is held in the raised, but still closed, position. The air openings 51 are located at a distance from the area of ​​the handle 30, 31, which the user must grasp to operate. This minimizes the risk of scalding. People or animals nearby are also unlikely to be sprayed with steam or hot air, as the lid 1 is not lifted immediately, but rather the excess pressure is first released through the air openings 51.

[0087] Thus, with the bars pulled out or folded down, it is possible to wait until no steam or hardly any steam escapes from the air passage openings 51 before the lid 1 is removed from the base part 2 and the food cavity 40 is exposed.

[0088] The pressure relief valve 50 is always ready for use, even when the lunchbox is closed, provided the clips 30 and 31 are pushed together and preferably touching, as shown in Figure 2 The concealed arrangement of the pressure relief valve has the advantage that, with the lunchbox closed and the handles 30, 31 pushed together, the steam first enters the handles 30, 31 and thus spreads outwards. This prevents scalding.

[0089] The following description uses this exemplary embodiment to illustrate how the sliding and folding down of the brackets 30, 31 is made possible and how an enhanced seal of the lunchbox is ensured. These functions and properties can also be achieved individually, so that embodiments are also included in the description that do not have all of the features mentioned below, but only those features necessary to fulfill the respective function or property. Furthermore, such functions and properties can also be achieved by other means that are apparent to a person skilled in the art based on their expertise. This is also included in the description.

[0090] In the Figure 1 , 17 , 21 and 22The brackets 30 and 31 are clearly visible. The characteristics of the second bracket 31 are described below, along with their reference numerals. The first bracket 30 is preferably identical in shape and size. Therefore, the description of the second bracket 31 given in this text also applies to the first bracket 30, and the reference numerals 30x, where x is a number from 1 to 9, should be used instead of 31x. The same applies to the four-digit reference numerals.

[0091] The second bracket 31 is U-shaped. It has two legs and a connecting bridge. Except for the recess, the legs and the bridge preferably have the same height, which is also preferably approximately constant.

[0092] The upper surface of the bracket 31 has an inwardly projecting flange 318. This flange is bent downwards in a U-shape in the area of ​​the exposed ends of the legs, forming a downwardly open U-shaped groove. This groove serves as an upper guide 311. In the area of ​​the web, the flange 318 has at least one rib, preferably several downwardly directed ribs, which serve as retainers 3180. When the lunchbox is closed, the flange 318 rests on the step 11 of the lid 1. The retainers 3180 thereby press the lid 1 downwards towards the base part 2. The upper surface of the two brackets 30, 31 and the lid 1 preferably forms a flat surface, as shown in Figure 2 is shown.

[0093] On the inside of the two legs of each bracket 30, 31, an inwardly projecting locking block 303, 313 is formed below the upper guide 301, 311. It has a guide window 3030, 3130 with an insertion extension 3031, 3131. When assembling the lunchbox, the two brackets 30, 31 are pushed together parallel to the lid 1 until the lugs 15 of the lid 1 engage in the insertion extension 3031, 3131 and in the slightly narrower guide window 3030, 3130.

[0094] Above the locking block 303, 313, a receptacle 309, 319 is arranged for fastening the aforementioned seal 9 (see Figure 17 , 21 and 22 The seal 9 is preferably rod-shaped or button-shaped.

[0095] Below the locking block 303, 313, a lower guide 302, 312 is formed in the area of ​​the free ends of the legs of the brackets 30, 31. This guide also has the form of an upwardly open U-shaped groove. Following the lower guides 302, 312 is an extended, approximately horizontal plate 304, 314, which terminates in a rear wall 305, 315 via an inclined surface. A downwardly projecting lug 306, 316 is formed in the area of ​​the inclined surface. The inner wall of the legs in the area of ​​the plate 304, 314 forms an inwardly projecting area 3040, 3140. In the lower area of ​​the web of the brackets 30, 31, an inwardly projecting web runs, forming a rear guide 307, 317.

[0096] The lower guide 302, 312 engages in the first guide ribs 22 of the base part 2. Depending on the rotational position of the lid 1 relative to the base part 2, the lower guide 302, 312 slides along either the upper or the lower rib of the first guide ribs 22. In the steaming position, i.e., with the lid 1 slightly raised, it is in contact with the upper first guide rib 22; in the heating, transport, and storage positions, it is in contact with the lower first guide rib 22. Similarly, the rear guides 307, 317 interact with the second guide ribs 23. Here, too, there is interaction with either the upper or the lower rib of the second guide ribs 23. This can be seen from Figure 1 The incompletely shown sides of the base part 2 also have corresponding first and second guide ribs 22, 23.

[0097] The groove 120 of the cover 1 engages with the upper guide 301, 311 when the brackets 30, 31 are closed, i.e., when pushed together. The two grooves 120, 301, 311 interlock.

[0098] In the Figures 23 and 24 The situation with the bars 30, 31 pivoted downwards is shown, as occurs when opening to allow steam to escape or to cool heated food. They are shown here in the open position. Depending on the embodiment, pivoting is also possible in a position shifted towards the closed position, which is not yet the open position.

[0099] The knobs 15 are located at the foremost end of the guide window 3030, 3130. This thus forms a stop. The bracket 30, 31 cannot be pulled apart any further. Preferably, the foremost lower edge of the bracket rests on the first guide ribs 22. This facilitates subsequent sliding of the brackets 30, 31 together.

[0100] The step 200 has a vertical inclined surface 2010, which slopes towards the first guide ribs 22 from an outer edge of the step 200 to the outer wall of the upper area 21.

[0101] When the latches 30, 31 are closed, the nose 306, 316 slides along this inclined surface 2010. This ensures that the latch 30, 31 is not pushed outwards, but rather that the upper guide 301, 311 re-engages in the upper groove 120 of the ramp 12 of the cover 1 as desired. Pressing the latch 30, 31 downwards causes it to slide laterally away from the base part 2. The latch 30, 31 would then no longer rest on the base part 2. This is prevented by the nose 306, 316 and a recess.

[0102] When the lunchbox is closed, the locking block 303, 313 and / or the thickened, protruding area 3040, 3140 of the plate 304, 314 also press the side walls of the lid 1 inwards, thus increasing the seal. When the latches 30, 31 are closed, the front end of the plate 304, 314 and / or the thickened area 3040, 3140 forms a stop for the end face of the first guide ribs 22.

[0103] In other embodiments, the pivoting and / or the guiding when closing the brackets and / or the pressing down of the cover to ensure tightness is solved in a manner that is obvious to a person skilled in the art and is known, for example, from the prior art.

[0104] The second guide ribs 23 preferably each have a hook 233 at their free ends, which engages lightly in the rear guide 307, 317 and thus holds the brackets 30, 31 in the closed position. In other embodiments, other fixing means are provided, or the brackets 30, 31 are held in their position by frictional forces. This is described in the Figure 1 and 18 recognizable.

[0105] The design of the knobs 15 and the guide windows 3030, 3130 prevents the brackets 30, 31 from being removed from the cover 1 when pivoting or pulling it out. Removal is preferably only possible when the two brackets 30, 31 are pushed towards each other, i.e., when the brackets form a closed closure.

[0106] In Figure 25Figure 1 shows a variant of this embodiment. A plug 17 is arranged in a through-hole in the lid 1. This forms a tight seal to the food cavity 40 of the tray 4. However, it can be opened manually if necessary. This is necessary, for example, if a vacuum in the food cavity 40 makes it difficult or impossible to lift the lid 1 and thus open the lunchbox. Such vacuums can occur, for example, if heated contents of the tray 4 cool down again without the lid 1 being lifted or removed in the meantime.

[0107] The plug 17 is preferably designed such that it cannot lift off automatically and open the passage opening in the event of overpressure in the food cavity 40. Preferably, it has a shape such as that found in the Figures 26 and 27It is recognizable as having a head 170 in the form of a plate with a first base, a neck 171 adjoining it, which is preferably cylindrical, and a foot 172 arranged at the second end of the neck 171, which is also preferably plate-shaped with a second base. The first base is preferably the same size as or significantly larger than the second base.

[0108] As in Figure 25 As can be seen, the foot 172 rests against the underside, here the curved wall 13, of the lid 1 and thus prevents it from lifting automatically in case of overpressure in the cavity 40.

[0109] The head 170 either rests on the surface of the cover plate 10 of the lid 1 or it is arranged in a recess in the cover plate 10 corresponding to its shape. It can be lifted if necessary to release the seal and relieve the vacuum in the cavity. Depending on the embodiment, it can also be completely removed.

[0110] Preferably, the plug is made of an elastic material, for example silicone.

[0111] The plug can also have other shapes. Furthermore, instead of a plug, a valve can be arranged in the lid, which opens automatically when a predetermined negative pressure is reached in the cavity.

[0112] The inventive lunchbox allows the lid to be opened safely without risk of scalding the user and with minimal effort. It also provides an optimal seal. REFERENCE MARK LIST 1 Lid 15 knob 10 Cover plate 16 spacers 11 Frame 17 plug 110 Level 170 Head 12 ramp 171 Neck 120 Nut 172 Foot 13 curved wall 14 chamber 2 Base part 20 lower area 200 Level 31 second bracket 2010 inclined surface 310 Exclusion 202 Foot 311 upper guide 21 upper area 312 lower guide 22 first guiding ribs 313 Snap-in block 23 second guide ribs 3130 Guide window 230 Interruption 3131 Introduction extension 231 middle upper edge 314 plate 232 extended area 3140 above area 233 Hook 315 back panel 24 niche 316 Nose 250 Actuating button 317 rear lead 251 Advertisement 318 flange 26 inner wall 3180 hold-down device 260 chamber 319 Recording 27 Water cavity 270 open space 4 Peel 40 Food cavity 3 Closure 41 upper edge 30 first bracket 300 Exclusion 50 Overpressure valve 301 upper guide 500 valve seat 302 lower guide 501 Valve diaphragm 303 Snap-in block 51 air passage opening 3030 Guide window 3031 Introduction extension 6 first seal 304 plate 3040 above area 7 second seal 305 back panel 306 Nose 8 Electronics and heating unit 307 rear lead 81 temperature sensor 308 flange 3080 hold-down device 9 seal 309 Recording

Claims

1. Lunchbox comprising - a base part (2) having a food cavity (40) for receiving food, - a lid (1) sealingly closing the base part (2) and - a closure (3) for closing the lunchbox by fixing the lid (1) on the base part (2), wherein the closure (3) comprises at least one locking element (30, 31), the locking element (30, 31) being moveable from a closed position into an open position with respect to the base part (2) and the lid (1), wherein at least one lifting element is provided, said lifting element lifting the lid (1) from the base part (2) when the locking element is in a position in which it is moved with respect to the closed position.

2. Lunchbox as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one locking element (30, 31) comprises a clamp (30, 31) with two arms and a web connecting the two arms, wherein the clamp (30, 31) can be moved from the closed position into the open position with respect to the base part (2) and the lid (1), in the longitudinal direction of the arms, wherein the at least one lifting element is the clamp (30, 31) and wherein the clamp (30, 31) is pivotable when it is in the position in which it is moved with respect to the closed position, wherein a pivoting of the clamp (30, 31) with respect to the base part (2) and the lid (1) lifts the lid (1) from the base part (2).

3. Lunchbox as claimed in claim 2, wherein the closure (3) has two clamps (30, 31), which can be moved with respect to the base part (2) and the lid (1) in the longitudinal direction of their arms, wherein the clamps (30, 31) in a pushed-together state sealingly fix the lid (1) to the base part (2).

4. Lunchbox as claimed in one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the lunchbox has at least one air through-opening (51) which leads outwardly from an interior of the base part (2), wherein in the closed position the at least one locking element (30, 31) sealingly closes the at least one air through-opening (51), and wherein in a position in which it is moved with respect to the closed position the at least one locking element (30, 31) opens up the at least one air through-opening (51).

5. Lunchbox as claimed in claim 4, wherein the at least one air through-opening (51) is arranged in the lid (1) and wherein the air through-opening leads outwardly from the food cavity (40).

6. Lunchbox as claimed in one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the lunchbox has at least one pressure relief valve (50) which leads outwardly from an interior of the base part (2), wherein at least in the closed position the pressure relief valve is covered by at least one locking element (30, 31).

7. Lunchbox as claimed in claim 6, wherein the at least one pressure relief valve (50) is arranged in the lid (1) and wherein the pressure relief valve leads outwardly from the food cavity (40).

8. Lunchbox as claimed in one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one locking element (30, 31) is held on the lid (1) and wherein the lid (1) has a guide (120, 12, 15) which guides the movement of the locking element and a movement, in particular a pivoting, of the at least one lifting element (30, 31).

9. Lunchbox as claimed in one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one locking element (30, 31) is positioned on a projection or a step (110) of the lid (1) in order to push the lid (1) sealingly onto the base part (2) in the closed position.

10. Lunchbox as claimed in one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the lunchbox has a heating element for heating up and / or preparing food.

11. Lunchbox as claimed in claim 10, wherein the lunchbox has a water cavity (27) for filling with water and wherein the heating element acts on the water cavity (27).

12. Lunchbox as claimed in one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a gap is formed between the food cavity (40) and the base part (2), wherein the lid (1) is sealingly positioned on the base part (2) in a first rotary position, such that it seals the gap when the closure (3) is closed with respect to the food cavity (40), and wherein the lid (1) is positioned on the base part (2) in a second rotary position, such that it opens up the gap when the closure (3) is closed with respect to the food cavity (40).

13. Lunchbox as claimed in claims 11 and 12, wherein the food cavity (40) is sealed with respect to the water cavity (27) in the first rotary position of the lid (1) and wherein the food cavity (40) is connected to the water cavity (27) in the second rotary position of the lid (1), for the purpose of applying steam to the food.

14. Lunchbox as claimed in one of claims 12 or 13, wherein the base part (2) has a first and a second guide (22, 23) and wherein when the at least one locking element (30, 31) is moved the at least one locking element (30, 31) is guided by the first guide (22, 23) or by the second guide (22, 23) of the base part (2) as a function of the rotary position of the lid (1).

15. Lunchbox as claimed in one of claims 1 to 14, wherein a sealingly closed through-opening is arranged in the lid (1), the through-opening connecting the food cavity (40) to the outside and being able to be opened for releasing a negative pressure in the food cavity (40).