Food trays in the shape of a baseball stadium

Abstract

This invention pertains to a food serving apparatus designed in the shape of a baseball stadium, enhancing the presentation of snacks for sporting events and gatherings. The apparatus includes a central compartment for beverages or a main dish, surrounded by multiple tiers designed for a variety of snack items. The tiered design replicates the architecture of a stadium, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. The apparatus is customizable in size and materials, catering to both small gatherings and large events, while offering easy assembly and storage solutions.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application filed 2024 Dec. 2 by the present inventor.BACKGROUNDPrior Art

[0002] This following is a tabulation of some prior art that presently appears relevant:U.S. PatentsPatent NumberKind CodeIssue DatePatenteeU.S. Pat. No. 2,476,102A11949 Jul. 12LobellU.S. Patent Application PublicationsPublication Nr.Kind CodePubl. DateApplicantUS20060042989A12006 Mar. 2Suter

[0003] Traditional food containers for serving snacks and dips often lack thematic appeal, particularly for sports fans. Existing solutions do not incorporate the design elements and functionality necessary to enhance the experience of baseball gatherings.Field of the Invention

[0004] This invention pertains to food-grade containers, specifically designed to serve and display snacks and dips in a way that enhances the enjoyment of baseball events. The unique design features compartments arranged to resemble a baseball field, providing an engaging thematic experience.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention is a food tray designed in the shape of a baseball stadium. It includes multiple compartments that not only organize snacks and dips but also enhance the thematic presentation for users. The tray features a step-by-step assembly process with an accompanying instruction manual to facilitate optimal setup and use.DRAWINGS—FIGURES

[0006] FIG. 1: Fully assembled baseball stadium-shaped food tray.

[0007] FIG. 2: Base of the tray with tab inserts for compartment attachment.

[0008] FIG. 3: Attachment mechanism for compartments on the base.

[0009] FIG. 4A: Outer barrier design in the back, including adhesive points for stability.

[0010] FIG. 4B: Outer barrier design in the front, including adhesive points for stability.

[0011] FIG. 4C: Barrier design with adhesive points, showing the addition of compartments.

[0012] FIG. 5: Attachment components for reinforcing compartments.

[0013] FIG. 6: Decorative elements such as signage, enhancing thematic appeal.

[0014] FIG. 7: Field components such as field lights, completing the baseball stadium design.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] The food tray is designed to resemble a baseball stadium and is constructed with multiple functional components to enhance its utility and thematic appeal. The tray includes a base (FIG. 2) featuring pre-designed tab inserts that allow for secure attachment of the outer barriers and compartments, forming the stadium's perimeter and internal sections. These inserts ensure a sturdy foundation while providing flexibility in assembling and disassembling the tray. The outer barriers (FIG. 4A, 4B) are designed to form the stadium's back, and front walls. These barriers are equipped with adhesive points and interlocking tabs that attach securely to the base and each other. The use of adhesive points ensures structural stability while allowing for quick assembly. The additional barrier (FIG. 4C) create more compartments in design. These barriers also contribute to the stadium aesthetic by creating the iconic stadium diamond shape, enhancing the food tray's thematic appearance. The compartmental design allows for the organized display of snacks and dips, with compartments shaped like a baseball stadium (FIG. 1). Reinforcement pieces (FIG. 5) are included to form extra compartments. This design ensures that the tray remains functional and intact even during extended use at large gatherings. The tray also incorporates decorative elements (FIG. 6), such as signage and scoreboard replicas. These elements not only enhance the visual appeal of the tray but also allow users to customize the tray for specific teams or events. Field lights (FIG. 7) add a realistic touch, further immersing users in the baseball game experience. The central field area (FIG. 5) serves as a flexible space that can either hold additional snacks or be used as a decorative focal point. The tray is designed with user convenience in mind. The tab-and-slot assembly system (FIG. 3) ensures that the tray can be easily put together without the need for additional tools. The lightweight materials used in the construction of the tray make it easy to transport. Additionally, the tray offers customization options for event organizers or sports fans. Users can personalize the stadium with team colors, logos, or event-specific branding, making it a versatile product for various occasions. The combination of utility, durability, and aesthetic appeal makes this food tray an ideal choice for enhancing the snack experience at baseball-themed events.Advantages

[0016] 1. Thematic Appeal: The baseball stadium design adds excitement to events, serving as both a functional food tray and a decorative centerpiece.

[0017] 2. Functional Organization: Multiple compartments allow for a well-organized display of snacks and dips, mirroring the layout of a baseball field.

[0018] 3. User-Friendly Assembly: The tray can be easily assembled with clear instructions, ensuring a hassle-free experience for users.

[0019] 4. Customizable Options: The tray can be tailored to specific teams or events, enhancing its appeal for fans and event organizers.CONCLUSION

[0020] The present invention provides a novel and engaging solution for serving and displaying snacks and dips during baseball-themed events. By integrating the design of a baseball stadium into a functional food tray, the invention enhances the user experience with both aesthetic appeal and practical utility. The tray's easy assembly, structural stability, and customizable features make it a versatile centerpiece for sports gatherings, offering fans a unique way to celebrate their favorite pastime. This innovation not only organizes snacks efficiently but also elevates the overall ambiance of any baseball-themed event, providing a memorable experience for users.

Claims

1. A food tray designed for enhancing the presentation and serving of snacks and dips, comprising:a) a base configured to form the foundation of the tray;b) a plurality of fitted compartments formed on the base, each compartment corresponding to distinct sections of a baseball stadium, including infield, outfield, and stands or fan sections,c) wherein the food tray is constructed to visually and structurally resemble a baseball stadium, enhancing thematic engagement during events.

2. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) the compartments are specifically configured to hold and organize various types of snacks and dips, such as chips, salsa, popcorn, and candy, while preventing mixing between different food items.

3. The food tray of claim 1, further comprising:a) structural components designed to reinforce the stability of the tray, including vertical barriers and angled support tabs that mimic stadium walls and seating tiers.

4. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) the compartments are assembled using tab inserts that interlock with slots on the base, ensuring secure attachment and simplifying the assembly process for users.

5. The food tray of claim 1, further comprising:a) decorative elements such as signage and light towers that simulate features of an actual baseball stadium;b) said decorative elements being customizable to reflect specific teams, colors, or event branding.

6. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) adhesive strips are applied to secure the structural components to the base and ensure stability during use, even when fully loaded with snacks and dips.

7. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) an instruction manual is provided, detailing a step-by-step assembly process with visual guides, ensuring proper setup of both the structural and decorative components.

8. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) the tray is constructed from lightweight, food-safe materials that allow for easy portability while maintaining structural integrity during use.

9. The food tray of claim 1, further comprising:a) color and branding customization options, allowing users to tailor the tray's appearance to match specific baseball teams, events, or promotional themes.

10. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) the compartments include integrated separator barriers to maintain the distinct arrangement of different food items, reflecting the layout of a baseball field and stadium seating areas.

11. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) pre-cut tabs on the base are designed to fold upward, forming the outer stadium walls and internal compartments, streamlining the assembly process.

12. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) the light towers and scoreboard elements are formed through precision cuts and are attached using secure adhesive backing or slot mechanisms, enhancing the visual realism of the tray.

13. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) reinforcement tabs and structural supports are included to ensure the tray remains stable and durable under the weight of multiple snack items, providing a reliable serving experience.

14. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) locking tabs designed to securely engage with adhesive strips, reinforcing the stability and ensuring prolonged structural integrity under varying load conditions.

15. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) customizable decorative elements, such as pennants or team-specific logos, are inserted into pre-formed grooves and held in place with adhesive backing, allowing for interchangeable designs.

16. The food tray of claim 1, wherein:a) the tray is designed for efficient disassembly and storage, allowing for convenient transportation and reassembly as a compact, portable unit.

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