Container for storage and shipping

Abstract

The invention is an article of manufacturing, being an improved design for a container that can be manufactured in a way that reduces an amount of material, and reduces an amount of monetary cost, time, human effort and risk of injury that are typically required for manufacturing and assembling together components that are required for constructing a traditional container. This improved container is also reusable and recyclable and can be disassembled and reassembled without requiring use of invasive methods or penetrating fasteners, so as to maximize reusability and to minimize space requirements when not in use. This improved container design also provides ecological benefits given that it reduces an amount of consumption of material resources in relation to that of more traditional container designs.

Description

[0001] This document (Docket No. SIP-001CIP) is a U.S. Non-provisional (continuation-in-part) utility patent application being filed under statute 35 U.S.C. 111(a), and that claims priority and benefit to, U.S. non-provisional patent application having Ser. No. (18 / 791,340) (Confirmation No. 9766) (Docket Number: SIP-001CV), that was filed on Jul. 31, 2024 and that is entitled “IMPROVED CONTAINER FOR STORAGE AND SHIPPING”, and which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The referred to U.S. non-provisional patent application having Ser. No. (18 / 791,340) (Confirmation No. 9766) (Docket Number: SIP-001CV), claims priority and benefit to Ser. No. (63 / 677,397), (Confirmation No. 7338), (Docket No. SIP-001P2), that was filed on Jul. 30, 2024, and that is entitled “Improved Container for Storage and Shipping”.

[0003] The referred to U.S. non-provisional patent application having Ser. No. (18 / 791,340) (Confirmation No. 9766) (Docket Number: SIP-001CV), also claims priority and benefit to Ser. No. (63 / 530,061), (Confirmation No. 8872), (Docket No. SIP-001P), that was filed on Jul. 31, 2023, and that is entitled “Improved Container”.

[0004] This document (Docket No. SIP-001CIP) also claims priority and benefit to a U.S. Provisional utility patent application with Ser. No. (63 / 741,808), (Confirmation No. 2861), (Docket No. SIP-001P3), that was filed on Jan. 3, 2025, and that is entitled “Improved Container for Storage and Shipping”. All of the above referred to documents (patent applications) are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, for any and all purposes.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention relates to improved containers for storage and shipping, and particularly to, containers for storage and shipping that each incorporate upper and lower walls that include a channel that is cut and routed to receive a plurality of side walls (and optionally corner components, and including a cavity for receiving side walls) that form the container without requiring installation of any penetrating types of fasteners or application of adhesive materials, but instead can rely upon at least one band or strap that applies a constricting tensile force looping around the container, and looping around the upper and lower walls and around two opposing side walls that structurally integrates and seals the container in a closed configuration.

[0006] In some embodiments of the container, the band makes no physical contact with opposing side walls, and in other embodiments, slots (holes, apertures) are provided through both upper and lower walls through which the band extends so that the band may optionally touch or contact such opposing side walls when looped there around, to seal a closed container. The containers of the present invention are useful as their walls can be made of rigid materials, such as of wood or rigid plastic, which can be reused and are recyclable as penetrating fasteners and adhesives are not required for assembly / construction of the container.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0007] A container is an object that can be used to enclose and / or transport something. Something that is enclosed (held) and / or transported by a container is also referred to as content of the container. Containers are designed to enclose / hold / store various types of content and can be transported via various types of methods between locations. Some containers are designed to be carried by fork-lift machines, and these types of containers are referred to as crates.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The invention is an article of manufacturing, being an improved design for a container. This container is designed to be re-usable, and can be disassembled and returned to its sender, and can be re-assembled without requiring use of tools, invasive methods, nor use of an adhesive, and without requiring use (installation) of penetrating fasteners, nor application of an adhesive, in order to maximize reusability of the container and to minimize space requirements when the container is not in use. This container can be employed in combination with a pallet to form a crate that in combination can be transported via a forklift machine. This improved container design also provides ecological benefits given that it is designed to reduce the amount of consumption of material resources in relation to that of more traditional container designs. This container can also be manufactured from a variety of materials, including recyclable material, yielding benefits to the environment.

[0009] Further, this container is designed so that it requires a reduced amount of material in relation to that of other traditional and / or typical container designs, and it can be almost entirely manufactured via computer numerical control (CNC) automatic cutting and routing machines, and further, requires a reduced amount of human effort for its manufacture, as compared to other typical container designs. And further, the type and amount of human effort currently required for its manufacture and use causes a reduced amount of risk of injury, and a relatively low risk of injury, as compared to that required of other traditional and / or typical container designs.

[0010] Briefly described, the present invention embodies a container for storing one or more items as content having a structure including a lower wall having a planar shape with two broad opposing sides, one of the broad opposing sides being an upward facing side, an upper wall having a planar shape with two broad opposing sides, one of the broad opposing sides being a downward facing side, and a plurality of side walls, each of the side walls having a planar shape, with two broad and opposing sides, and each side wall having a plurality of edge sides that are located in between the two broad opposing sides.

[0011] The upward facing side of the lower wall and the downward facing side of the upper wall, each including a channel that is preferably mirrored with respect to its location, shape and size relative to each other, each the channel configured for receiving an edge side of each one of the side walls, wherein the lower wall, upper wall and side walls are designed to be assembled to construct a container in order to receive and enclose one or more items for storage inside of the container, and wherein the container is designed to not require installation of any penetrating types of fasteners, and further designed to not require application of any type of adhesive. Preferably, the container has a band or strap that is employed to apply a constricting force upon the structure of the container.

[0012] The present invention also embodies a method for sending items from a first location to a second location, including actions of: providing an assembled container that is designed to be disassembled and reassembled and that requires no installation or removal of penetrating fasteners and that requires no application or removal of adhesive for assembly or disassembly of the assembled container; storing items within the container; closing and sealing the container with a band or strap; arranging for transportation of the container from a first location to a receiver at a second location; receiving the container in a disassembled form from the receiver at the second location; and reassembling the container for reuse of the container.

[0013] The present invention further embodies a method for receiving items being sent from a first location to a second location, including actions of: receiving at a second location from a sender at a first location, a container in assembled, closed and sealed form, the container designed to be disassembled and reassembled, and designed to require no removal of penetrating fasteners nor removal of adhesive for disassembly; unsealing and opening the container; removing items from within the container; disassembling the container; arranging for transportation of the container in disassembled form, from the second location to the sender at the first location; and receiving monetary credit from the sender in exchange for the transportation of the container in disassembled form to the sender.

[0014] This brief description of the invention is intended only to provide an overview of subject matter disclosed herein according to one or more illustrative embodiments and does not serve as a guide to interpreting the claims or to define or limit the scope of the invention, which is defined only by the appended claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] So that the manner in which the features of the invention can be understood, a detailed description of the invention to certain embodiments of the invention is provided herein, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only certain embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the scope of the invention, for the scope of the invention can encompass other effective embodiments.

[0016] The drawings are not necessarily to scale. The emphasis of the drawings is generally placed upon illustrating the features of certain embodiments of the invention. In the drawings, like numerals are used to indicate like parts throughout the various views. Differences between like parts may cause those parts to be indicated with different drawing reference numerals. Unlike parts, if indicated with drawing reference numerals, are to be indicated with different drawing reference numerals. Thus, for further understanding of the invention, reference can be made to the following detailed description, read in connection with the drawings in which:

[0017] FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C (FIGS. 1A-1C) each illustrate different viewing perspectives of an embodiment of a container and an embodiment of a lower wall within that container.

[0018] FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C (FIGS. 2A-2C) each illustrate different viewing perspectives of a partially constructed container of FIG. 1A.

[0019] FIGS. 3A and 3B (FIGS. 3A-3B) each illustrate different viewing perspectives of an upper wall of the container of FIG. 1A.

[0020] FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D and 4E (FIGS. 4A-4E) illustrates use of one or more bands to seal a constructed container of FIG. 1A.

[0021] FIGS. 5A and 5B (FIGS. 5A-5B) illustrate a top-down viewing perspective of a set of atypically shaped containers and their physical arrangement within a storage space.

[0022] FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, 6G, 6H, 6I, 6J (FIGS. 6A-6J) collectively illustrate various viewing perspectives of a corner component of a container and its incorporation into a container.

[0023] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D and 7E (FIGS. 7A-7E) collectively illustrate container design features for the accommodation of banding.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C (FIGS. 1A-1C) each illustrate different viewing perspectives of a first embodiment of a container, and an embodiment of a lower wall within that container.

[0025] FIG. 1A illustrates a horizontal side perspective view of an assembled (constructed) container 100. As shown, the container 100 includes an upper wall 310, four side walls 210a, 210b, 210c and 210d (210a-210d) and a lower wall 110. A broad side of side wall 210d is shown here. Broad sides of side walls 210a and 210c are not facing the viewer from the viewing perspective of this figure. A broad side of side wall 210b is obstructed by the broad side of the side wall 210d, and as a result, is not visible to the viewer from the viewing perspective of this figure.

[0026] FIGS. 1B-1C each illustrate different viewing perspectives of the lower wall 110 of an embodiment of a container of FIG. 1A. The lower wall 110 is also referred to herein as a bottom wall 110 or as a floor 110 of the container 100. The container 100 is also referred to herein as a structure, storage structure or storage box.

[0027] FIG. 1B illustrates a top-down viewing perspective of the lower wall 110 of the container 100. This viewing perspective requires that the upper wall 310 and the side walls 210a-201d, be removed from the assembled container 100 to expose an upward facing surface of the lower wall 110 of the container 100.

[0028] As shown, this lower wall 110 has a planar three-dimensional shape. This planar shape of the lower wall 110 having two broad opposing sides. These two broad opposing sides include an upward facing side (shown here) and a downward facing side (not shown here).

[0029] Referring to FIG. 1A, this upward facing side of the lower wall 110 is obstructed by the side walls 210a, 210b, 210c and 210d (210a-210d) of FIG. 1A, and consequently, not shown in FIG. 1A. This upward facing side has an outer perimeter, and this side includes a channel 120 (Best shown in FIG. 1B) that is cut into the lower wall 110, and more specifically cut into an outer surface of the upward facing side of the lower wall 110.

[0030] As shown here, the upward facing outer surface of the lower wall 110 is oriented substantially parallel to a plane defined by the X and Y axes, as shown in this figure. Also, the viewing perspective of this figure being in a direction that is substantially downward and parallel to the Z axis, and perpendicular to a plane defined by the X and Y axes for this figure.

[0031] As shown here, this channel 120 has a perimeter that forms a shape, being that of a rectangle. Likewise, the lower wall 110 also has a perimeter that forms a shape, being that of a rectangle. The shape formed by the channel 120 is also referred to herein as a shape of the channel perimeter, or as a shape characteristic of the channel 120, or as the channel perimeter shape. Likewise, the shape formed by the perimeter of the lower wall 110 is also referred to herein as a shape of the lower wall perimeter, or as a shape characteristic of the lower wall 110, or as a lower wall perimeter shape.

[0032] In this embodiment, the channel perimeter has a shape of a rectangle. Likewise, the outer perimeter of the lower wall 110, also has the shape of a rectangle. In this circumstance, both the shape characteristic of the perimeter of the lower wall 110 and of the shape characteristic of the perimeter of the channel 120, have the same type of shape, being that of a rectangle, and further, each having a same length and width proportion of the rectangular shape that is formed.

[0033] The portion of the upper surface of the lower wall 110 that is located between the outer perimeter of the lower wall 110 and the channel 120 of the lower wall 110, is referred to herein as a perimeter plateau 112 of the lower wall 110. Apart from the perimeter plateau 112, the upper surface portion of the lower wall 110 that is surrounded by and located inside of the channel 120 of the lower wall 110, is referred to herein as a center plateau 116 or as a central plateau 116 of the lower wall 110. This center plateau 116 includes a center point location 118.

[0034] The perimeter plateau 112 is also referred to herein as an outer (exterior) margin 112 of the lower wall 110, and an outer margin 312 of the upper wall 310. The outer (exterior) margin 112, 312 functions as a separator (bumper) between this container 100 and another object, such as a wall for example, and functions as a separator between two containers that are designed in accordance with the invention, where two or more containers 100 are arranged and abutting side by side to each other. The outer (exterior) margin 112 of the lower wall of each side by side arranged container 100 can abut the outer (exterior) margin 112 of a lower wall of another same designed container. Likewise, the upper wall 310 of the container 100 also includes a perimeter plateau (outer (exterior) margin) 312 that also functions as a separator (bumper) relative to other objects, including that of another container 100.

[0035] In accordance with the invention, the shape characteristic of the channel 120 and the shape characteristic of the lower wall 110, as shown here, are not required to be that of a rectangle, nor are these shapes required to be the same type of shape, nor are these shapes required to have same proportions if both have the same shape. Further, although the channel 120 is shown as having uniform width, which is desirable to receive (interface with) a side wall having a uniform width, there are other embodiments of the invention, (See FIG. 6F) for example, that are designed to include a channel 614 having a non-uniform width, as shown for example in FIG. 6F.

[0036] Other embodiments of the invention can include a lower wall 110 having an outer perimeter shape that is different than that of a rectangle, and likewise, the channel (groove) may also have a perimeter shape that is different than that of a rectangle. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the shape characteristic of the channel 120 and that of the lower wall 110 can be different from each other, or have the same shape characteristic, with different proportions and / or dimensions.

[0037] The channel 120 shown in this embodiment is referred to herein as a continuous channel, meaning that the channel forms a loop and consequently there is no physical location where the channel ends. To make a street analogy, there is no dead end within the channel. Essentially, the channel 120 forms a pathway, also referred to herein as a channel pathway, that is cut into a wall of the container, and that channel pathway forms a loop referred to herein as being continuous, because there is no definite end (no dead end) to this continuous channel. This continuous type of channel is also referred to herein as one continuous channel segment, and this type of channel segment, being a continuous channel segment, is a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0038] However, in other embodiments of the invention, this same channel can form a same shaped and sized pathway and can be modified and divided into separate segments, which are each referred to herein as channel segments, and where each channel segment has two definite end points (dead ends).

[0039] For example, if a one-inch length of the channel that is located midway between each corner of this rectangular shape continuous channel is essentially eliminated from this continuous channel 120, by this one inch segment not being cut into the wall of the container, then four (4) separate right-angled “L” shaped channel segments would be formed, and where each of these right-angled “L” shaped channel segments would include a corner of the continuous channel 120 that is being shown here, and each of these right-angled “L” channel segments would also include two end points (dead ends).

[0040] These four right-angle (“L”) shaped channel segments, of an alternative embodiment of the invention, are also each referred herein to as “channel slots” or “slots”. These channel clots would collectively continue to define (form) a same rectangular shaped pathway, also referred to herein as a channel segment pathway.

[0041] FIG. 1B further includes a horizontal dashed line 190 that indicates a cross-sectional viewing perspective 190 of the lower wall 110 of FIG. 1A, from a horizontal side viewing perspective that is shown in FIG. 1C. This cross-sectional and horizontal viewing perspective is in a direction that is substantially parallel to the Y axis, as shown here in FIG. 1B.

[0042] FIG. 1C illustrates a horizontal side cross-sectional viewing perspective of the lower wall 110 of FIGS. 1A and 1B, being indicated by the horizontal dashed line 190 of FIG. 1B. As shown, the channel itself 120 that is cut into the lower wall 110, has a cross-sectional profile 120a and 120b (120a-120b) that is also rectangular in shape. This cross-sectional profile 120a and 120b (120a-120b) of the channel 120 is dimensioned (shaped and sized) to receive an outer edge of a plurality of side walls (not shown here), that are each configured to be inserted into the channel 120. (Shown in FIG. 2A)

[0043] Preferably, the cross-section of the channel 120 is uniform and dimensioned so that each side wall that is inserted into the channel 120, is supported as standing in a vertically upright position (self-standing), and not requiring any additional support, for maintaining such a stationary and vertically upright position. In some embodiments, the width of the channel 120, as measured parallel to the X axis from this cross-sectional viewing perspective, is ½ ( 16 / 32 ) of an inch, which can receive a side wall that is 15 / 32 of an inch wide, as measured parallel to the X axis.

[0044] FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C (FIGS. 2A-2C) each illustrate different viewing perspectives of a partially constructed container of FIG. 1A.

[0045] FIG. 2A illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a lower edge of each of two side walls 210a, 210c being inserted into the lower wall 110 of FIGS. 1A-1C. The lower wall 110 of FIGS. 1A-1B is shown from the side cross-sectional viewing perspective of FIG. 1C. As shown, each of the side walls 210a and 210c is standing upright while being inserted into the channel 120 of the lower wall 110 of the container 100. Notice that, and preferably, no additional structure is required for each side wall 210a and 210c, to maintain a stationary and upright position, which is a preferred embodiment of the invention. Each of the side walls 210a-210d are rectangular and planar in shape, and each have two broad opposing sides, and each have a plurality of edge sides that are located in between each of their two broad opposing sides.

[0046] The embodiment of the lower wall 110 of FIGS. 1A-1B is configured to receive four (4) side walls 210a-210d. However, because FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of a partially constructed storage structure 100, the side walls 210a and 210c that are shown here are limited to being a cross-sectional view of two (2) of the four (4) side walls. The cross-sectional view of the side walls 210a and 210c that is shown in FIG. 2A, are side walls that each have a broad side (surface) that is oriented substantially parallel to a plane formed by the Y and Z axes. Side walls that are not shown here, being side walls 210b and 210d, each have a broad side (surface) that is oriented substantially parallel to the X and Z axis.

[0047] FIG. 2B illustrates a top-down view of a partially constructed container 100 with four (4) standing side walls, while each of the side walls 210a-210d are inserted into the channel 120 of the lower wall 110 of FIGS. 1A-1C. From this viewing perspective, a view of the channel 120 is obstructed by the side walls 210-210d that are inserted into the channel 120. The container 100 is partially constructed because the upper wall 310 of FIG. 1A is absent from this figure, because it has not yet been placed (attached) above the side walls 210a-210d, to form an enclosed container 100, like that shown in FIG. 1A. In this figure, all four (4) of the side walls 210a-210d are inserted into the channel 120 of the lower wall 110 of this container 100.

[0048] In this embodiment, notice that each of the side walls 210a-210d, makes physical contact with two other adjacent side walls 210a-210d along a beveled edge 212 of each side wall 210a-210d, making physical contact with another 210a-210d. Each beveled edge 212a-212d is a beveled side edge, as opposed to a lower or upper edge, of each side wall 210a-210d. Such a beveled side edge is optional, and the invention does not require a beveled edge 212a-212d for physical contact between the side walls 210a-210d.

[0049] In this example, the bevel edge 212a-212d has an angle equal to 45 degrees. A 45-degree bevel angle is preferred to physically interface a 90-degree corner angle. However, as will be shown in FIG. 5A, other container shapes, such as a triangle shaped container, will include corners that are not of a 90-degree angle. Such corners, if beveled, will likely have a bevel angle that is other than a 45-degree angle.

[0050] As shown, the lower wall 110 includes apertures, also referred to herein as openings, slots, holes, notches 170a and 170b that are each designed (configured) to receive a band 446 or strap 442 (not shown here), and where each opening, slot, hole or notch can be designed (sized and located) to constitute a portion of a passageway along which a band 446 or a strap 442 can be disposed in relation to a structure of a container 100. These apertures 170a-170b are also included in the upper wall 310, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3B. Such an aperture (opening, slot, hole) can also be implemented as a notch, preferably having a rectangular shape, that is cut (carved out of) an outside perimeter of the lower wall 110 or upper wall. (Not shown here).

[0051] Also notice that the aperture 170a-170b enables a band 446 or strap 442 to be disposed inside of the outer perimeter of both the lower wall 110 (FIG. 2B) and the upper wall 310 as shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, so that the band 446 or strap 442 does not protrude and is not disposed outside of the outer perimeter of the lower wall 110 and upper wall 310, reducing a likelihood that such a band 446 or strap 442 could become entangled or “snagged” with some other object that is located outside of the constructed container 100.

[0052] FIG. 2C illustrates examples of various types of physical contact that can be made between side walls 212a-212d of the container 100. In accordance with the design of the invention, physical contact between the side walls 212a-212d does not require installation (employment) of penetrating fasteners, which are types of hardware, such as for example, nails, screws, staples or rivets. And further, some embodiments of the invention do not require installation of non-penetrating fasteners, such as clamps, clips or bracing. However, some embodiments of the invention do require banding, which is arguably a non-penetrating fastener. And preferably, physical contact between the side walls 212a-212d do not employ fastener types of hardware, nor application of an adhesive.

[0053] A penetrating type of fastener, is invasive to the container 110, and can be such as a nail, screw, staple or rivet, for example. A non-penetrating type of fastener can be such as application of an adhesive, and / or installation of a clamp, clip or brace, for example. Although an adhesive is a non-penetrating type of fastener, it can interfere with disassembly of the container 100, and as a result, is undesirable with respect to reuse of the container 110.

[0054] Within this figure (FIG. 2C), an enlarged illustration of a beveled edge type of physical contact 212, between the side walls 210a-210d, like that shown in FIG. 2B, is also shown here. Also shown in this figure, is an abutting type of physical contact 214, between the side walls 212a-212d. Also shown in this figure, is a notched type of physical contact 216, between the side walls 212a-212d. The notch type of physical contact 216, is generally preferred over the other types of physical contact between the side walls 212a-212d shown here. The invention does not restrict other types of physical contact between the side walls 212a-212d of the container 100.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 3A, the viewing perspective of FIG. 3A is in an opposite direction relative to that of the viewing perspective of FIG. 2B. The viewing perspective of FIG. 2B is directed downward (top-down) and towards the lower wall 110 and the side walls 212a-212d that are attached to the lower wall 110. Conversely, the viewing perspective of FIG. 3A is directed upward (bottom-up) and towards the downward facing surface of the upper wall 310. This viewing perspective is in a direction that is generally parallel to the Z axis.

[0056] FIGS. 3a-3b each illustrate different viewing perspectives of an upper wall 310 of the container of FIG. 1A.

[0057] FIG. 3A illustrates an upward directed view of an inside surface of the upper (top) wall 310 of the storage structure 110. As shown, in this embodiment, the structure of the downward facing inside surface of the upper wall 310 mirrors the structure of the upward facing inside surface of the lower wall 110 that is shown in FIG. 1B. This upper wall 310, like the lower wall 110, is rectangular and planar in shape, and has two broad opposing sides. These two broad opposing sides of the upper wall 310 include a downwards facing side (shown here) and an upwards facing side (not shown here), but shown in FIG. 3B.

[0058] Like the upward facing side of the lower wall 110, this downward facing side of the upper wall 310 includes a channel (groove) 320 that is cut into the downward facing side (outer surface) of the upper wall 310. This channel 320 is located a fixed distance from an outer perimeter of this downward facing side of the upper wall 310.

[0059] Like the lower wall 110, this channel 320 of the upper wall 310 forms a continuous perimeter of a shape, having the same shape and dimensions as that of the channel perimeter of the lower wall 110. This same shape is that of a rectangle having the same dimensions (shape and size) as that of the channel 120 of the lower wall 110. The channel 320 of this upper wall 310 is designed to receive an upper side edge of the side walls 210a-210d. Like that of the lower wall 110, the portion of this upper wall 310 that resides between the channel 320 and the outer perimeter of this upper wall 310, is referred to herein as a perimeter plateau 312, or as a perimeter margin 312, or as the outer (exterior) margin 312 of the upper wall 310.

[0060] The channel 320 of the upper wall 310, and the channel 120 of the lower wall 110, are preferably designed to mirror each other. Such mirroring means that an outer perimeter 322a of the channel 320 and an outer perimeter 122a of the channel 120 are same dimensioned (shaped and sized) and same located, and an inner perimeter 322b of the channel 320 and an inner perimeter 122b of the channel 120 are same dimensioned (shaped, sized, and same located so that when the side walls 212a-212d are inserted into both the channel of the lower wall 120 and the upper wall 320, the side walls 212a-212d are oriented perpendicular to each of the upper wall 210 and the lower wall 120, while the upper wall 320 and the lower wall 120 are oriented parallel to each other.

[0061] Individual straight-line segments of the outer perimeter 322a of the channel 320 form a shape that is a rectangle. Likewise, individual straight-line segments of the inner perimeter 322b also form a shape that is a rectangle. Although mirroring of these channels 120, 320 is preferred, other embodiments could be implements that do not implement mirroring of these channels, and such embodiments are generally more complicated to implement and consequently, are not preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0062] A perpendicular closest distance, is a shortest length of a line that could be drawn between a point location along the outer perimeter 322a and a nearest point location along the inner perimeter 322b, and where such a shortest length of a line is perpendicular to both the outer perimeter 322a and the inner perimeter 322b when intersecting the two-point locations.

[0063] This perpendicular shortest distance (shortest length) is designed to be uniform in length across the entire channel 320, and it represents a uniform width of the channel 320. This uniform width of the channel 320 accommodates receiving an insertion of each of the side walls 210a-210d, each side wall 210a-210d having a thickness that is also uniform and dimensioned to fit into the individual line segments of the channel 320. This uniform width of straight-line segments applies to other embodiments of the invention, including the embodiments of FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, 6G, 6H, 6I, 6J (FIGS. 6A-6J).

[0064] Preferably, and in some embodiments, the width (thickness) of the channel 320 is dimensioned to be slightly more, such as 1 / 16 of an inch more, than the uniform thickness of each of the side walls 210a-210d, to accommodate insertion and a tight fit when inserting, each of the side walls 210a-210d into the channel 320. For example, in some embodiments, the width of each channel 120, 320 being equal to 16 / 32 of an inch, and the width (thickness) of each side wall 310a-210d being equal to 15 / 32 of an inch. The above-described design characteristic applies to other embodiments of the invention, including the channel 614 of the embodiments of FIGS. 6A-6J.

[0065] FIG. 3B illustrates a top-down view of the upper wall 310 as it is attached to the remainder of the container 100. Preferably, and as shown, the outer surface of the upward facing (exterior) side surface of the upper wall 310 has an even and level topology. The same is true for the outer surface of the downward facing (exterior) side of the lower wall 110 of FIGS. 1A-1C, 2A and 2B (2A-2B). Such an even and level outer (exterior) surface of the lower wall 110 and of the upper wall 310 accommodates stacking of multiple containers like the container 100 described herein, and accommodates sliding of this container 100 resulting from an intentional pushing force provided by warehouse personnel along a surface of a floor or along an exterior surface of another container 100, like that described herein.

[0066] Also, the perimeter of the lower wall 110 and of the upper wall 310 forms a rectangular shape having four (4) straight edges sides. These straight edged perimeter sides facilitates tight side to side lateral packing of a plurality of these designed containers into a matrix, such as into a 4×3 matrix, being 4 rows of 3 containers that are packed side by side, for example. These same stacking, packing and sliding features of the container 100, are also provided by other embodiments of the invention, such as for example, by provided by the container 600 that is described in FIGS. 6A-6J.

[0067] The container 100 and the container 600 shown in FIGS. 6I and 6J, and their respective container components that are incorporated into each container 110, 610, can be made from a variety of types of material, such as for example, from various types of wood (particle board (OSB), plywood, pine, Douglas fir, spruce, oak for example), plastic or metal, or from a composite type of material, for example. Preferably, the material having characteristics that enable it to be accurately cut, shaped and routed by computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines. And preferably material that can be recycled.

[0068] In one embodiment, the container 100 can be made from 15 / 32 inch-thick plywood, sometimes and nominally referred to as “one-half inch thick plywood”, where the lower wall 110, upper wall 310 and side walls 210a-210d are each cut from such one-half inch thick plywood. Typically, the channels 120, 320 are each cut at least one quarter inch deep into both the lower wall 110 and the upper wall 310, respectively. The uniform width of each channel 120, 320 being 16 / 32 inches wide and at least 1 / 32 of an inch wider than the 15 / 32 inch-wide uniform width of each of the side walls 210a-210d, in this embodiment.

[0069] For this embodiment, the dimensions of the outer perimeter of the lower wall 110 and of the upper wall being 16 by 12 inches, just for example. The outer (exterior) margin between the outer perimeter of the channels 120, 320 and the outer perimeter of the lower wall 110 and of the upper wall 310, being equal to approximately one-half inch, for example. These container dimensions can vary substantially between embodiments of the invention.

[0070] The above-described embodiment can be modified in a myriad of ways. The above embodiment can be made from particle board, referred to as OSB, instead of from plywood. Or can be made from a polymer (plastic) type of material. Alternatively, the side walls 210a-210d can be thinner and have a shorter uniform thickness, for example, where these side walls 210a-210d are instead ⅜ of an of thick, and the channels 120, 320 are 7 / 16 of an inch in width, to accommodate a tight (snug) insertion the thinner side walls 210a-210d.

[0071] The material and dimensions of a particular container 100 and 600 depend upon the type and amount of content the container is to contain (store and enclose). For example, heavier content requires stronger walls and / or stronger corner components to surround and to physically support such heavier content. The distribution and direction of the weight of the content needs to be anticipated so as to know what material and what proper thickness of the side walls 210, 630 and that of the lower wall 110, 610 should be, so as to sufficiently support such distribution and direction of weight, for when the container 100, 600 is stationary and for when the container 100, 600 is disposed upon a pallet and being accelerated and decelerated during its transport, via truck, train, ship and / or airplane.

[0072] FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D (FIGS. 4A-4D) illustrates use of one or more of a band or strap to seal a constructed container of FIG. 1A.

[0073] FIG. 4A illustrates a top-down viewing perspective of a band 440, also referred to herein as a strap 440, that forms a continuous loop that spans (straddles) across the exterior surface of the upper wall 310, the exterior surface of the side walls 210a and 210c and the exterior surface lower wall 110, to wrap around and surround the container of FIG. 1A.

[0074] A tensile force is applied to the band 440 as it surrounds the container 100, causing the band to apply a tensile (constricting / pressing / squeezing) force upon the container 100. This tensile force causes portions of the container 100, to press against each other, to better seal any content that is stored within the container 100. Essentially, the components of the container 110, such as the lower wall 110, upper wall 310 and side walls 210a-210d, are designed to connect and bond with each other to form an assembled (constructed) container 110. The additional force applied by the band 440 or strap 440 to the container 110, increases the bonding (joining) force, being a pressing (joining) force between adjacent components of the container 110, to strengthen the structure of the assembled (constructed) container 110.

[0075] The band or strap 440 is preferably made from a polymer-based material, also referred to herein as a plastic or rubber-based material. The band 440 can be made from other materials including metal, cloth, leather, nylon etc. Preferably, this strap 440 or band 440 is configured to withstand and maintain a tensile (constricting) force of at least 200 pounds or greater while being applied to the container 100, without further stretching or breaking. An actual tensile force applied by the band 440 to the container can be varied well below or well above this 200-pound tensile force and can vary based upon the circumstances of how the container is intended to be employed (used). A band 440 is typically ⅝ to 2.5 inches in width, but such a band 440 can be dimensioned outside of this range, and customized based upon how a container is expected to be employed (used).

[0076] For example, a tensile force applied by the band 440 to the container can range between 10 and 1000 pounds of force. However, this tensile force typically ranges between 50 and 500 pounds of force, depending upon the circumstances of how the container is intended to be employed (used).

[0077] FIG. 4A further includes a horizontal dashed line 430 that indicates a cross-sectional and horizontal viewing perspective of the container 100, and of the band 440 as it is wrapped around the container 100 of FIG. 4A. The container of FIG. 4A is standing upright relative to the surface of the earth and relative to the direction of gravity. This cross-sectional and horizontal viewing perspective is shown in FIG. 4B. This cross-sectional and horizontal viewing perspective is directed substantially parallel along the Y axis, and parallel to the surface of the earth, as shown here. The Z axis, which is perpendicular to the Y axis, is directed parallel to the direction of gravity, as shown here.

[0078] This band 440 is referred to herein as being vertically oriented, because when the band 440 is wrapped around the container as shown here, it forms a loop that is substantially oriented along (parallel to) a plane that is defined to be parallel to the X and Z axes, as shown here. This plane also intersects and is oriented perpendicular to the surface of the earth.

[0079] FIG. 4B illustrates a cross-sectional and horizontal view of the container 100 of FIG. 4A, this view being indicated by the horizontal dashed line 430 of FIG. 4A. In this circumstance, the band 440 is implemented as a ratchet strap 442. A ratchet portion 444 of the ratchet strap 442 is configured to apply a tensile (pulling) force to the strap portion of the ratchet strap 442, as it surrounds the container 100. In some embodiments, the ratchet strap 442 is designed to incorporate a lock, or locking mechanism, to provide further security towards protecting the content while sealing of the container 100, via the strap 442.

[0080] The tensile force that is applied to the ratchet strap 442 applies a constricting (pressing / queezing) force to the container 100. As shown here, the tensile (squeezing) force when applied to the container 100, essentially pulls the lower wall 110 and the upper wall 310 towards each other, to press against each other, and also pulls and presses the side walls 210a-210d into both the lower wall 110 and into the upper wall 310. As a result, this tensile force that is applied by the band 442 strengthens a force of bonding, at locations of physical contact, between the lower wall 110 and the side walls 210a-210d, and strengthens a bonding, at locations of physical contact, between the side walls 210a-210d and the upper wall 310 of the container 100. The lower wall 110, side walls 210a-210d and the upper wall 310 being components, and not fasteners, of the assembled (constructed) container 100.

[0081] Such strengthening of the forces of bonding caused by applying the tensile force to the container 100 via a band 440, regardless of whether the band 440 is a ratchet strap 442 or another type of band 440, can circumvent a need to employ traditional fasteners or adhesives to strengthen a bonding between various portions of the container 100. Adjacent the side walls 210a-210d, being pressed into the channels of the lower and upper walls, can circumvent a need to employ traditional fasteners between each of the side walls 210a-210d, and between the side walls 210a-210d and the lower wall 110 and / or the upper wall 310. Such traditional fasteners being hardware including penetrating or non-penetrating types of fasteners.

[0082] Furthermore, traditional fasteners often require penetration of the material from which the container 100 is made. For example, staples, rivets, nails and screws, which penetrate material from which the container 100 is made, can be employed to strengthen a bonding between portions of the storage structure 100. A traditional fastener typically requires a minimum required depth of material at a location where the fastener penetrates a portion of the container 100.

[0083] This minimum depth of material required for a penetrating fastener, may exceed a depth of the material at a location where the penetrating fastener is intended to penetrate the container 100, such a location being within a side wall 210a-210d of the container, for example. In this circumstance, a side wall needs to be strengthened with additional material to increase a depth of material to accommodate penetration of a screw or nail, at such a particular location within the container 100. This circumstance causes additional material to be required to exist within, or to be added to, the container 100.

[0084] Furthermore, use of traditional fasteners typically require workers to spend more labor and time to make use of fasteners while constructing a container. Such use of fasteners creates a risk of error and / or injury to workers during the construction of a container. This can especially be true when workers are required for installing one or more penetrating fasteners, such as a staples, screws and / or nails, into a container, for example.

[0085] The design of the embodiments of the invention that are described herein, do not require installation penetrating fasteners. This design avoids use of such penetrating fasteners, but however, this design does not prevent use of such penetrating fasteners. Use of such penetrating fasteners can interfere with the realization of the desired benefits (goals and objectives) of the invention, as described herein with respect to recyclability and reusability of the container 100, 600, and as a result, installation of such penetrating fasteners is not required, and not preferred to be incorporated into the herein described container embodiments of the invention 100, 600. While one band is shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 6J, additional bands or straps 440, 442, 446 may be installed as desired around the lower 110, 610, upper walls 310, 640 and side walls 210, 630 of each respective container 110, 610.

[0086] FIG. 4C illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the band 440 of FIG. 4A that is surrounding the container of FIGS. 4B-4C. In this embodiment, the band 440 is implemented as a heat bonded band 446, and not implemented as a ratchet strap 442. A specialized device, such as a battery powered Fromm Plastic Strapping device, Model P328S for example, is designed to apply both a tensile force to the band 446 and designed to apply heat to an overlapping region of two ends of material that will form a joined band via a melting together of the two ends of the overlapping region, followed by cooling and solidification of the joined band. The heat bonding of the heat bonded band 446 is performed while the heat bonded band 446 it is wrapped around the container 100, in order to bond the heat bonded band 446 in a loop formation while it (the band 446) is wrapped around and surrounding the container 100, and while the band 446 remains under tension.

[0087] An advantage of this type of heat bonded band 446 is that this type of band 446 is more tamper resistant than a ratchet strap 442 of FIG. 4B. In other words, this type of band 446 is required to be severed (cut) to terminate the application of the tensile force from the band 446, surrounding to the container 100, in order to obtain access to the content of the container 100. However, the cutting of the band 446 provides evidence of someone possibly having accessed the content of the container 100, and possibly having tampered with the container 100, and possibly tampered with the contents of the container 100. Upon cutting the heat bonded band 446, it is difficult for someone to re-seal the container 100 and difficult for someone to hide the evidence of cutting the heat bonded band 446 and hiding prior tampering of the container 100.

[0088] From the viewing perspective of this figure (FIG. 4C), notice that the lower wall 110 and the upper wall 310 each extend laterally (cantilever) beyond the side walls of the container 100 in both opposite directions along both the X and Y axes. This creates open volume of space 450a, 450c located outside of and around the container 100 through which a heat bonded band 446, or another type of constricting fastener, such as a ratchet strap 442 for example, can pass through this open volume of space 450a, 450c, so as to reduce a risk of the heat bonded band 446 or ratchet strap 442 colliding with a wall or other object, or colliding with a side wall of another same designed container 100.

[0089] Also, this lateral extension (cantilever) of the lower wall 110 and of the upper wall 310, creates a “bumper” effect, in that it prevents the side walls of the container 100 from colliding with side walls of other same designed containers 100 that are disposed (placed) laterally next to each other onto a floor or onto a large pallet. Also, notice that both the lower wall 110 and upper wall 310, each have external surfaces that are parallel with respect to each other, and further, having a flat and even surface topology, so as to facilitate convenient vertical stacking of this type of container 100 as it is designed. These above-described features are also provided by other embodiments of this invention, including such as, for example, the container 600, that is described in FIGS. 6A-6J.

[0090] FIG. 4D illustrates a horizontal (side) viewing perspective of a partially constructed container 100. The partially constructed container 100 is a container 100 that lacks an attached upper wall 310, but however, also has a band 448 wrapped horizontally around its side walls 210a-210d, to strengthen a bonding between the side walls 210a-210d of the fully assembled container, without the upper wall 310 being attached to the container 110, causing those side walls 210a-210d to be un-attached to an upper wall 310 of the container 100, in circumstances such as when loading content for storage into the container 100. The band 448 can be formed like that of a heat bonded band 446, or be installed as a ratchet strap 442.

[0091] In this circumstance, content that is being stored into the enclosed space of the container can stack, pile and / or lean against one or more side walls 210a-210d, causing a pushing force upon those side walls 210a-210d that is directed outward and away from the enclosed space and away from the leaning content that is being placed / stored within the enclosed space of the container 100.

[0092] For example, if someone were loading a pile of rocks into the container 100, such heavy and loose content would stack and / or pile and likely push the side walls 210a-210d and cause the side walls 210a-210d to bow away from the enclosed space and away from the content being stored within the enclosed space of the container 110. To counteract this risk of deforming the container 100, the band 448 is wrapped horizontally around the container 110, as shown in this FIG. 4D. This horizontally oriented band 448 is designed to constrict (pull) the walls 210a-210d towards each other, and to press these walls against each other, via the tensile force applied by the band 448, in order to create an additional bonding (joining) force between these walls and to hold these walls 210a-210d in a vertical and upright position, while content is leaning and pressing outwards against the walls 210a-210d of the container.

[0093] This band 448 is referred to herein as being horizontally oriented, meaning when the band 448 is wrapped around the container as shown here and in FIG. 4D, it forms a loop along a plane that is substantially parallel to a plane that is defined by the X and Y axes, and where this defined plane is oriented parallel to the surface of the earth, and perpendicular to the direction of gravity.

[0094] Upon filling the container 100 with content, the upper wall 310 can be placed upon and attached to the side walls 210a-210d, to provide a further bonding force from the upper wall 310 to each of the side walls 210a-210d, and a bonding force between the side walls 210a-210d, in addition to that provided by the horizontal oriented band 448. Optionally, the horizontal oriented band 448 can be removed from the container 100, prior to transporting the container to another location, or the horizontal oriented band can remain wrapped around the container 100 indefinitely.

[0095] A vertically oriented band 440, like that shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B or 4C, is preferably wrapped around the container 100 including an attached upper wall 310, and a tension applied to the vertically oriented band to further seal the container 100, prior to transporting the container, if applicable, to another location.

[0096] FIG. 4E illustrates a side (horizontal) cross-sectional view of an external band anchor 460 and an internal band anchor 462. Both external band anchor 460 and internal 462 band anchor are embedded into the lower wall 110 of the structure of the container 100. This cross-sectional viewing perspective is like that shown in FIG. 2A.

[0097] As shown, the external band anchor 460 is cylinder shaped object and attached to a section of band 456 (or ratchet strap 442) that protrudes externally away from a lower wall 110 of a container 100, and where the band 456 that is configured be bonded within another section of band (not shown here). This external band anchor 460 can also be employed inside of the lower wall 610 of the embodiment of FIGS. 6A-6J.

[0098] After bonding (heat binding or ratcheting) with the other section of band to form a combined band, the combined band applies a tensile force straddling the upper wall (not shown here), and surrounding the upper wall and side walls, and the outer edges of the lower wall 110 of the container 100, having a same squeezing (sealing) effect to the container 100, as that of that tensile force applied by the band 446 to the container 100 of FIG. 4C. Notice that the rachet strap 442 and band 446 each make physical contact with lower wall 110 and the upper wall 310, but the rachet 442 strap and band 446 does not make physical contact with any side wall 210a-210d of the container 100.

[0099] The band anchor 460, is also referred to and classified as an external band anchor, because the section of band 456 being anchored by the external band anchor 460, is protruding externally away from the container 100. This protruding section (portion) of band 456 is dimensioned (sized and shaped) so that it can make physical contact with, and overlap with, and be bonded (heat bonded or ratcheted) with another section of band (not shown here), to form a combined band that surrounds the container 100. The other (another) section of band is likewise anchored by another band anchor (not shown here) that is embedded at another location within the lower wall 110, and where the other location is proximate to another side wall 210a, that is located on an opposite side of the container 100, and having a broad side that is oriented parallel to the broad side of the side wall being shown here 210c.

[0100] The band anchor 460, being an optional (non-required) component within the container 100, is preferably made from a rigid and strong material, and optionally made from a metallic material, such as steel, for example. In some embodiments the band anchor which is shaped as a cylinder, is ⅛ inches in diameter and 2 inches in length. The diameter and length of the cylinder can vary substantially. The length of the band anchor 460 being greater than the width of a band that is attached to it.

[0101] In another embodiment of a band anchor 462, and as also shown in this figure, a band anchor being of an internal type, and referred to as an internal band anchor 462 is attached to a section of band 458 that is configured to be bonded within another section of band, to form a combined band (not shown here). In this embodiment, the band that is attached to the band anchor exits away from and above an upper surface of the lower wall 110, while the cavity that the band anchor resides within is located in in the lower wall 110.

[0102] The combined band, after bonding (fusing) two sections of band together, resides internal to the container 100, and it straddles an object being stored as content inside of the container 100, and applies a tensile force that presses the object against the lower wall 110 of the container 100, to arrest movement of, and to secure the object as content being stored inside of the container 100. This internal band anchor 462 can also be employed inside of the lower wall 610 of the embodiment of FIGS. 6A-6J.

[0103] The band anchor 462 shown in this figure, also referred to herein as a first band anchor 462, is also referred to and classified as an internal band anchor 462, because the section of band 458 being anchored by the internal band anchor 462, is protruding inside of (internally within) the container 100. Typically, a band or strap that is attached to each of two separate internal band anchors 462, are joined (overlapped) and tightened via a rachet device to press an object being stored as content inside of the container 100, 600 against the lower wall 110, 610 of the containers 100, 600, where the container 600 and its lower wall are shown in FIGS. 6I and 6J. This internal band anchor 462, like the external band anchor 460, is an optional (non-required) component within the container.

[0104] This protruding section of band 456 is dimensioned (shaped and sized) so that it can be bonded with another section of band that is likewise anchored by another second internal band anchor 462 (not shown here) that is embedded at another location into the lower wall 110, and where the other (another) location is preferably more proximate to another side wall 210a, having a broad side that is oriented parallel to the broad side of the side wall 210c. The first internal band anchor 462 that is shown here, being more proximate to the broad side wall 210c, than the second internal band anchor, not shown here.

[0105] Like the band anchor 460, the band anchor 462 is preferably made from a rigid and strong material, and optionally made from a metallic material, such as steel, for example. In some embodiments of the band anchor, which is shaped as a cylinder, is dimensioned to be ⅜ inches in diameter and 3 inches in length. The length of the cylinder shape of the band anchor 460 being greater than a width of a band for which it is attached.

[0106] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate a top-down viewing perspective of a set of atypically shaped containers and their physical arrangement within a storage space, in accordance with the invention.

[0107] FIG. 5A illustrates a top-down viewing perspective of containers 510a-510c that are dimensioned into atypical shapes. As shown, container 510a is dimensioned as an “L” shaped structure, and the container 510b is dimensioned as a “T” shaped structure, and the container 510c is dimensioned as a modified triangle shaped structure.

[0108] Container 510a is custom dimensioned to store an “L” shaped object as content for shipping. Such an object could be a device, such as an “L” shaped electrical bus bar, for example. The container itself 510a, can be dimensioned (tailored) to surround such content in a manner to minimize an amount of remaining excess storage space within the interior of the container 510a, so as to maximize the efficiency of the storage of content within the container 510a, with respect to a utilization of three-dimensional space within the container 510a.

[0109] The invention does not require that a container be dimensioned in a symmetrical way. For example, the “L” shape that is shown here is asymmetrical in shape. Like that shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, a tensile force can surround and be applied to the container 510a via one or more bands 440a-440b, to seal any content that is stored within the container 510a.

[0110] Container 510b is custom dimensioned to store a “T” shaped object as content for shipping. The container itself 510b, can be dimensioned (tailored) to surround such content in a manner to minimize an amount of remaining excess storage space within the interior of the container 510b, so as to maximize the efficiency of the storage of content within the container 510b, with respect to the utilization of three-dimensional space within the container 510b.

[0111] Although the “T” shape shown here happens to be a symmetrical shape, the invention can be practiced with non-symmetrical shapes, including with a non-symmetrical “T” like shapes. Like that shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C (FIGS. 4A-4C), a tensile force can surround and be applied to the container 510b via one or more bands 440c-440d, to seal any content that is stored within the container 510b.

[0112] Container 510c is custom dimensioned to store a triangle-like object as content for shipping. The container itself 510c, can be dimensioned (tailored) to surround such content in a manner to minimize and amount of remaining of excess storage space within the interior of the container 510c, so as to maximize the efficiency of the storage of content within the container 510c, with respect to the utilization of three-dimensional space within the container 510c.

[0113] As shown here, the actual shape of the container 510c is a modified equilateral triangle where one of the three corners of this triangle is cut away to create a short side that is oriented parallel to an existing and opposite side of this triangle. The existing and opposite side of this triangle being longer in length than the short side. This modification enables a band 440e to straddle these two opposite and parallel sides of this modified triangular shape, in order to surround both the upper wall 310 and lower wall 110 of this type of container 510c.

[0114] Although this modified triangular shape shown here happens to be a symmetrical shape, the invention can be practiced with shapes based upon non-equilateral triangles and / or non-symmetrical shapes, including such as a non-symmetrical triangle like shape. Such non-standard shapes can be modified, like shown here, to better accommodate wrapping of a band 440 or a belt to apply a tensile force to the non-standard shaped container. Like that shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, a tensile force can be applied to the container 510c via at least one band 440e, to seal the content within the container 510c.

[0115] FIG. 5B illustrates a top-down viewing perspective of containers 510a-510c that are arranged for efficient usage of three-dimensional space that is external to the containers. As shown, two “L” shaped containers 510a are spatially arranged to make efficient use of three-dimensional space that is external to these containers 510a. Likewise, three “T” shaped containers 510b are spatially arranged to make efficient use of three-dimensional space that is external to these containers 510b. And three modified triangle shaped containers 510c are spatially arranged to make efficient use of three-dimensional space that is external to these containers 510c.

[0116] Furthermore, these containers 510a-510c are stackable because the upper walls 310 and lower walls 110 are designed to be parallel to each other, and can be placed to lay upon a floor, and upon each other, within a volume of space between a floor and a ceiling within a volume of space within which these container 510a-510c are stored.

[0117] In one use scenario, apples are picked from trees and placed into baskets. These baskets, although useful for gathering apples, are generally not stackable. The picked apples can be transferred from the baskets and placed into one or more containers 100, 600 which are stackable. These containers 100, 600 can be placed upon a pallet to be transported via a forklift to a truck, train, ship and / or airplane, for example.

[0118] FIG. 6A illustrates a top-down cross-sectional viewing perspective of a container corner component 650, which is also referred to herein as a corner component 650. This corner component 650 is designed to construct a portion of a container and is designed to physically engage each of two adjacent side walls 630a-630b of a container. In some embodiments, each of the adjacent side walls 630a-630b, includes grooves 632aa-632bb, which are designed to engage a protrusion 656a-656b of and from the corner component 650 (Shown Here).

[0119] In other embodiments, the corner component lacks a protrusion 656a-656b, and each adjacent side wall 630a-630b is not required to include a groove 632aa-632bb. Each of the side walls 630a-630d are rectangular and planar in shape, and each have two broad opposing sides, and each have a plurality of edge sides that are located in between each of their two broad opposing sides.

[0120] This corner component 650, as well as the other components of the container 100, 600, are preferably made from a material that is recyclable and that is capable of being cut, milled, routed and / or carved from newly acquired raw stock or previously used material, and that via a computer numerical control (CNC) milling / cutting machine. Preferably the corner component material is a type of wood or wood-based material (for example, from cedar, cypress, hemlock, pine, Douglas fir, spruce, oak, plywood or a wood composite material such as particle board (OSB) etc. This is also true for the other components of the container 100, 600. Regardless, whatever material is selected to build an embodiment of a particular container 100, 600, such material is also referred to herein as “the container material” for that embodiment of the container 100, 600.

[0121] In other embodiments, the corner board 650 and / or other components of the container 600, could be made from other types of materials, including such as from a polymer-based material, such as from a plastic for example, or made from another non-wood composite type of material, for example. Making any of the container components from a polymer-based material is typically not preferable, because such a material typically requires employment of a mold or die, in order to shape and size such material from a molten state to a solid form, and which requires substantial time and expense, that is not required when alternatively employing a material that can be cut (carved) by a CNC milling / cutting machine.

[0122] Another advantage of employing a CNC cutting / milling machine is that it can be controlled by software that can be designed to direct cutting (carving) of components of various sizes and shapes, and further, such software can be modified, to make time efficient, reliable and accurate alterations, with respect to the manufacturing of such components. This advantage applies to the making of the corner component 650, where the embodiment shown here can be cut from 4×4 inch cross-sectioned lumber. This type of component 650 has a complex shape that can and will be altered to support prototyping and manufacturing of such corner components of various sizes and shapes, for incorporation into a plurality of differently customized containers 100, 600.

[0123] Preferably, this corner component 650 is designed to be, by itself, self-standing and tip (tilt) resistant, when it is initially joined to a lower wall component 610, during construction (assembly) of a container 600. The corner component being by itself self-standing and tip (tilt) resistant accommodates a predictable and time efficient procedure (method) for constructing (assembling) the container 600 (See FIGS. 6H-8J), by human hand(s) and without requiring use of machinery to perform such assembling of the container 600.

[0124] Also, notice that this corner component 650 is designed so that there is no requirement that there be direct physical contact between two adjacent side walls 630a-630d of the container 600, which is unlike that shown in FIG. 2C, for example. And further, this corner component 650 does not require employment of hardware and / or penetrating fasteners, such as for example, clamps, clips, staples, nails, screws, bolts or nuts to attach to or construct such a portion of a container 600. Such hardware fasteners are typically made from a metal alloy and typically introduce a variety of types of materials that are different from that of the container material, which is the material that is employed for constructing the remainder of the container 600 itself, and which is referred to herein as the container material. Such hardware and / or penetrating fasteners causing more complex circumstances for performing recycling of the material of the container 600.

[0125] FIG. 6B illustrates a more detailed top-down cross-sectional viewing perspective of a container corner component 650, relative to that of FIG. 6A. As shown, this corner component 650 has peripheral (outer) wall portion 652 that is separated into two separate portions 652a-652b that together form an ‘L’ shaped right angle, from this viewing perspective. Each portion of the outer wall 652a-652b of the corner component 650 has an exterior surface that faces away from the remaining portion of the corner component 650. Each of these exterior surfaces intersect each other at about (approximately) a 90-degree (right) angle.

[0126] This ‘L’ shaped (right angle intersecting) pair of exterior surfaces of the outer wall portion 652 of the corner component 650 is referred to herein as the outer or outside portion 652 of the corner component 650. A remaining portion of the corner component 650, referred to herein as an inner or inside portion 658 of the corner component 650, is joined to the outside portion 652 of the corner component 650. Preferably, the corner component 650 is cut from one piece of stock material, so that both the outer portion 652 and inner portion 658 of the corner component 650 reside as one whole single, rigid, integrated and uniform (monolithic) corner component 650.

[0127] This inner portion 658 of the corner component 650 has a surface 658a that is cut in a diagonal direction relative to the pair of exterior surfaces forming the ‘L’ shaped outer wall 652a-652b. As shown here, this surface 658a faces inward towards the interior of the container and towards a northeast direction. This northeast direction being directed towards about (approximately) a 45-degree angle relative to, the outward and south facing direction, and the outward and western facing direction, of the two exterior (outward and away from the container) facing surfaces of the outer wall 652a-652b of the outer portion 652 of the corner component 650.

[0128] As shown, the inner portion 658 of the corner component 650 further includes two cavities (slots) 654a-654b that are each designed for receiving and physically engaging an outer edge of a side wall 630a-630d (See FIG. 6C). A first cavity 654a has an opening that faces towards a north direction. This first cavity 654a is also located adjacent to a first protrusion 656a that protrudes towards a west direction. This first protrusion 656a is designed to be inserted into a channel groove 632aa that is cut into a side wall 630a that is designed to be inserted into the first cavity 654a. The south facing edge of the side wall 630a is designed to be inserted into the cavity 654a while being moved in a direction that is parallel to a Z axis, which is a direction that is perpendicular to a plane defined by the intersection of the X and Y axes, and that is also perpendicular to a plane defined by the surface of this drawing.

[0129] In other words, the side wall 630a is lifted and disposed above the slot 654a of the corner component 650, and then the side wall 630a is slid downwards (towards the direction of gravity) so that the south edge of the side wall 630a slides into the slot 654a of the corner component 650, and so that the protrusion 656a of the corner component 650 enters and physically engages the channel 632aa, of the side wall 630a. The side wall 630a, is designed (configured) to be slid further in a downward direction to be inserted into a channel 614, of the lower wall 610, as shown in FIG. 6C. This channel 614 of the lower wall 610 is designed (configured) to receive and restrict movement of a lower edge of the side wall 630a.

[0130] Likewise, a second cavity 654b has an opening that faces towards an east direction. This second cavity 654b is also located adjacent to a second protrusion 656b that protrudes in a south direction and that is designed to be inserted into a channel 632da that is cut into a side wall 630d that is configured to be inserted into the second cavity 654b.

[0131] Likewise, the side wall 630b is slid downwards (towards the direction of gravity) so that the west edge of the side wall 630b slides into the slot 654b of the corner component 650, and so that the protrusion 656b of the corner component 650 enters and physically engages the channel 632ba, of the side wall 630b. The side wall 630b, is designed (configured) to be slid further in a downward direction to be inserted into a channel 614, of the lower wall 610, as shown in FIG. 6C. This channel 614 of the lower wall 610 is designed (configured) to receive a lower edge of the side wall 630b.

[0132] The side walls 630a-630d are each modified to include a channel 632aa and 632da, respectively. The channels 632aa-632da are each located and sized and shaped (dimensioned) to receive each respective protrusion 656a-656b, when an edge of the side wall 630a-630b respectively, is inserted in (along) a direction that is parallel to the Z axis and passing (sliding) into each respective cavity 654a-654b parallel to that direction. The Z axis being towards the direction of gravity and directed perpendicular to a plane that is defined by the combination of the X and Y axes and defined by the surface of this drawing.

[0133] This engagement between the corner component 650 and a side wall 630a-630d is designed to cause restriction of movement of a side wall 630a-630d while it is engaged with the corner component 650, in order for the side wall 630a-630b to move (slide) in a direction (upwards / downwards) along an axis of gravity that is oriented parallel to the direction of gravity, and in order to restrict movement of the side wall 630a-630d in a direction that is other than a direction that is parallel to the axis of gravity, while the container 600 is standing (disposed) upright, with respect to the direction of gravity.

[0134] In this embodiment, the portions 652a-652b of the outer wall 650 are each approximately 15 / 32 of an inch in thickness, where the thickness of the portion 652a of the outer wall 652 is measured parallel to the X axis, and where the thickness of the portion 652b of the outer wall 652 is measured parallel to the Y axis. The outer surface of the portion 652a of the outer wall 652 measures about 2.5 inches as measured parallel to the Y axis. The outer surface of the portion 652b of the outer wall 630 measures about 2.5 inches as measured parallel to the X axis. The X-Y plane cross-sectional area of each of the portions 652a-652b is about (approximately) 2.34 squareinches.

[0135] The side walls 630a-630d are also each approximately 15 / 32 of an inch in thickness. The thickness of the side wall 630a is measured in a direction that is parallel to the X axis. The thickness of the side wall 630d is measured in a direction that is parallel to the Y axis. Notice that the side walls 630a-630d are each less thick, by ( 16 / 32 inch− 15 / 32 inch= 1 / 32 inch) a difference (margin) of one thirty-second ( 1 / 32) of an inch, than the thickness, being the short dimension of, each of the respective cavities 654a-654b, that they are configured (designed) to be inserted into.

[0136] Also in this embodiment, the first cavity 654a has a short (width) dimension, as measured parallel to the X axis, equal to 16 / 32 (0.5) inches. This short (width) dimension, is measured along a west facing inner wall of the cavity 654a that abuts the protrusion 656a that is located adjacent to the north facing opening of the first cavity 654a.

[0137] Also, for this embodiment, the first cavity 654a also has a long (length) dimension, as measured parallel to the Y axis, and as measured from the north facing back inner wall of the first cavity 654a to the opening of the first cavity 654a, where the opening of the first cavity is located adjacent to the protrusion 656a adjacent to the opening of the first cavity 654a. This long dimension is equal to ¾ (0.75) inches. This long dimension can also be measured along an inner wall which faces in a west direction and that abuts the back inner wall and abuts up to and not beyond the protrusion 656a.

[0138] As shown, the protrusion 656a has a short dimension, as measured parallel to the X axis, equal to 2 / 32 (0.625) inches, and has a long dimension, as measured parallel to the Y axis, equal to 4 / 32 (0.125) inches.

[0139] Likewise, in this embodiment, the second cavity 654b has a short (width) dimension, as measured parallel to the Y axis, equal to 16 / 32 (0.5) inches. This short dimension is measured along a short and east facing back inner wall within the second cavity 654b. The second cavity 654b also has a long (length) dimension, as measured parallel to the X axis, which is also equal to ¾ (0.75) inches. This long dimension is measured along a long inner wall which is south facing and that abuts the short back inner wall and abuts up to and not beyond the protrusion 656b. The protrusion 656b has a short dimension, as measured parallel to the Y axis, equal to 2 / 32 (0.625) inches, and has a long dimension, as measured parallel to the X axis, equal to 4 / 32 (0.125) inches.

[0140] The diagonal surface 658a of the inner portion 658 of the corner component 650 that faces in a northeast direction, has a horizontal (width) dimension, as measured along its surface in a northwest to southeast direction as shown here, equal to about (approximately) 2.75 inches. This surface has a long (length) dimension that is measured parallel to the Z axis, and parallel to a direction of gravity, when this corner component 650 is incorporated into a manufactured container that is being disposed and oriented in an upright manner, as it is designed. The X-Y plane cross-sectional area of the inner portion is about (approximately) 2.5 square inches.

[0141] The combination of the X-Y plane cross-sectional area of each of the outer portions 652a-652b (2.34 square inches) and the X-Y plane cross-sectional area of the inner portion 658 (2.5 square inches), of the corner component 650 sums to about (approximately) 4.84 square inches. The sized of this combined cross-sectional area is important, because this measure relates to the corner component's 650 resistance to bending or buckling in response to various forces being directed upon the corner component 650. Preferably, the cross-section of the corner component 650, is made from a soft wood, is at least 4.5 square inches.

[0142] The long dimension of this surface 658a is dependent upon a manufactured length of the long dimension of the corner component itself 650. The manufactured length of the corner component 650 depends upon the intended (designed) height of the container within which the corner component 650 is to be incorporated. In other words, the corner component 650 is designed to have a long dimension that is measured parallel to the direction of gravity, when the corner component 650 is incorporated into a container that is self-standing and disposed in an upright manner.

[0143] FIG. 6C illustrates a top-down viewing perspective of a partially constructed container, including one container corner component 650, that is attached to two side walls 630a-630d, and disposed (mounted) on an upper surface of a lower wall 610, being a type of lower wall 610 that is incorporated into a container including corner components 650.

[0144] The upper surface portion of the lower wall 610 that is located between the outer perimeter of the lower wall 610 and the channel 614 of the lower wall 610, is referred to herein as a perimeter plateau 612 of the lower wall 610. At least a portion of the perimeter plateau 612 being exposed outside of and extending away from the side walls 630a-630d, and this portion also being referred to as the outer (exterior) margin 612, which functions in the same manner as described in association with the outer (exterior) margin 112, 312 of the earlier described embodiments of the container of FIGS. 1A-4E.

[0145] Separately from the perimeter plateau 612, the upper surface portion of the lower wall 610 that is surrounded by and located inside of the channel 614 of the lower wall 610, is referred to herein as a center plateau 616 or as a central plateau 616 of the lower wall 610. This center plateau 616 includes a center point location 618.

[0146] As shown here, an outer perimeter of the outer wall 652 of the corner component 650 is disposed upon and aligned with, an outer perimeter of the southwest corner of the lower wall 610. Accordingly, the outer wall 652 of the corner component 650 is disposed upon and aligned with an inside boundary of the perimeter plateau 612 of the lower wall 610. The area disposed upon by the outer wall 652 is referred to as the inner portion of the perimeter plateau 612. Furthermore, each of the side walls 630a-630b are inserted into the channel 614, like that shown in FIG. 2A.

[0147] The channel 614 of the lower wall 610, is designed to receive a lower edge of a side wall 630, to restrict the side wall 630 from moving in a lateral direction, relative to a long dimension of the channel 614. This lateral direction is not parallel to a long dimension of the channel 614, within which the side wall 630 is inserted. The four corner posts 650a-650d, when inserted into the corners of the channel 614, obstruct movement of the side walls 630a-630d from moving in a direction that is parallel to a long dimension of the channel 614 within which, each side wall 630a-630d is inserted.

[0148] The channel 632 of the side wall 630, is designed to receive a protrusion 656 from the corner component 650, to restrict the side wall from moving away from the corner component 650, in a lateral direction and in a direction that is generally parallel to the long dimension of the channel 614, within which the side wall 630 is inserted.

[0149] FIG. 6D illustrates a top-down viewing perspective of a four-wall constructed container, including four container corner components 650a, 650b, 650c and 650d (650a-650d), that are each physically engaged with (attached to) a subset of two of four side walls 630a, 630b, 630c and 630d (630a-630d).

[0150] As shown here, side wall 630a is attached to corner components 650a-650b, side wall 630b is attached to corner components 650b-650c, side wall 630c is attached to corner components 650c-650d, and side wall 630d is attached to corner components 650d-650a, in the same manner as earlier described for corner component 650a in connection with side walls 650a and 650d. What is not shown here, is how the corner components 650a-650d are each physically engaged (attached) with the lower wall 610, as shown in FIGS. 6E-6H.

[0151] This lower wall 610, like the upper wall 640, is rectangular and planar in shape, and has two broad opposing sides, and it includes a perimeter plateau 612. These two broad opposing sides of the lower wall 610 include an upwards facing side (as shown here) and a downwards facing side (not shown here).

[0152] FIG. 6E illustrates a side viewing perspective of the corner component 650, like that corner component 650a shown in FIGS. 6A-6C. As shown, this embodiment of the corner component 650 is substantially taller than it is wide, from this viewing perspective. For example, to support typical shipping demands, the corner component is configured to typically be 2-8 feet in height. However, the height dimensions of this corner component can be configured to reside outside of this 2-8 foot range, and to be longer and above 8 feet or to be shorter and below 2 feet boundary of this range.

[0153] As shown, a long dimension length of the inner portion 658 of the corner component 650 is extended beyond a long dimension length of the outer portion 652a-652b of the corner component 650 in two opposite vertical directions, being extended in both a downwards 651x and an upwards 651y direction. An extension of an inner portion 658 of the corner component 650, in either direction, downwards or upwards, is also referred to herein as a vertical extension 651x-651y of the inner portion 658 of the corner component 650.

[0154] First, this inner portion is extended in a downward direction and below a central portion 651a of the corner component 650. This extension is referred to herein as an inner portion lower extension 651x, or as a lower extension 651x, of the corner component 650. Second, this inner portion is extended in an upward direction and above a central portion 651a of the corner component 650. This extension is referred to herein as an inner portion upper extension 651y, or as an upper extension 651y, of the corner component 650.

[0155] The lower extension 651x is designed (configured) to be inserted into a corner portion of the channel 614 of the lower wall 610, the topology of which is shown in detail in FIG. 6F. The upper extension 651y is designed (configured) to be inserted into a corner portion of the channel of an upper wall 640, the topology of which is the same as that of the lower wall 610, also shown in detail in FIG. 6F.

[0156] For this embodiment, the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640 share the same dimensions, being the same shape and size, and further share, the same three-dimensional topology, including the routed portions of each wall, being the channel portion 614, of each of the lower wall 610 and of the upper wall 640, which are designed and manufactured to mirror each other.

[0157] Such mirroring means that the channel 614 has a same shape, size and location for both the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640, so that when the side walls 630a-630d are inserted into both the channel 614 of the lower wall 610 and of the channel 614 of the upper wall 640, the side walls 630a-630d are oriented perpendicular to each of the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640, and while the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640 are oriented parallel to each other.

[0158] When the corner components 650a-650d are each attached to two of the side walls 630a-630d, and attached to a lower wall 610 and / or to an upper wall 640, movement of each side wall 630a-630d is further restricted along an axis that is parallel to the direction of gravity, while the container 600 is standing (disposed) upright with respect to the direction of gravity. This is because each of the lower wall 610 and upper wall 640, obstructs the sliding of each side wall 630a-630d along an axis that is parallel to the direction of gravity, and essentially, arresting the movement of the side wall 630a-630d in any direction when it is fully physically engaged with the remaining components of the container 600, being the lower wall 610, upper wall, and two adjacent corner components among the four (4) corner components 650a-650d.

[0159] FIG. 6F illustrates an unobstructed top-down viewing perspective of an embodiment of the lower wall 610 of the container of the invention. As shown, the lower wall 610, is generally rectangular in shape. However, this overall shape could be that of a square, or else that of another rectangle that has a more extreme difference between its long dimension (shown here as being parallel to the X axis) and its short dimension (shown here as being parallel to the Y axis).

[0160] As shown, the lower wall 610 has a perimeter plateau portion 612 that surrounds a channel portion 614 of the lower wall. The channel portion 614 surrounds a central plateau portion 616 of the lower wall. The perimeter plateau 612 and the central plateau 616 each have a higher elevation within the lower wall 610, while the channel portion 614, has a lower elevation within the lower wall 610, where the elevation is measured as a distance above the surface of the earth, when the lower wall is incorporated into a container 600 that is assembled and self-standing. In this embodiment, the lower wall 610 has an overall (maximum) thickness that is equal to about 15 / 32 of an inch. In this embodiment, the (floor of the) channel portion 614 has an elevation that is 8 / 32 inches lower than that of the perimeter plateau 612 and that of the central plateau 616, of the lower wall 610.

[0161] In this embodiment, the perimeter plateau 612 and floor of the channel 614 each have an elevation that is uniform, which is preferred but not required.

[0162] Also as shown, the channel 614 has four (4) corner portions that are each shaped and dimensioned to receive the lower extension 651x of inner portion 658 of the corner component 650 of FIG. 6E. These corner portions are located at the southwest, northwest, northeast and southeast corners of the channel 614 of the lower wall 610. Each of these corner portions of the channel 614 of the lower wall 610, and of the upper wall 640 which mirrors the lower wall 610, are configured (designed) for receiving an extended (inner) portion of a corner component 650.

[0163] Preferably, each corner portion of the channel 614 of the lower wall 610, is shaped and sized so that the lower extended portion 651x of each corner component 650 fits within, and preferably friction fits within, and into each corner portion of the channel 614 of the lower wall 610. Likewise, the channel 614 of the upper wall 640, is shaped and sized so that the upper extended portion 651y of each corner component 650 of FIG. 6E, fits within, and preferably friction fits within, and into each corner portion of the channel 614 of the upper wall 640.

[0164] In between each corner portion of the channel 614, there is a uniform width portion of the channel 614 that is located, shaped and sized to receive a lower edge of each side wall 630. Preferably, each side wall also friction fits into the channel 614 portion of the lower wall 610.

[0165] However, each corner portion of the channel 614 is modified and extended with respect to its width (width extended) and with respect to its size (size extended) in terms of an amount of square inches it occupies, and with respect to its shape (shape modified), relative to that of a uniform width portion of the channel 614, in order to adapt itself (corner portion) to receiving a cross-section of end portion of each of the one of the plurality of corner components 650a-650d.

[0166] Said another way, each corner portion of the channel 614 is modified relative to a uniform width portion of the channel 614, to accommodate receiving and joining with an extended end portion 651x-651y of each corner component 650a-650d. A perimeter of each corner portion of the channel 614 is actually contoured and beveled (angled) to accommodate a perimeter of a cross-section of an extended end portion 651x-651y of each corner component 650a-650d. diagonal edge of a cross-section of the extended end portion 651x-651y of each corner component 650.

[0167] The cross-section of each corner component 650a-650d being designed to provide substantial resistance to bending (bowing) when placed under stress from forces directed towards it 650a-650d, while each 650a-650d corner component receiving and joining with two of the plurality of side walls 630a-630d, and while the container 600 is being employed for shipping (transporting) stored content within it 600.

[0168] The ‘L’ shaped (right angled) outside portion of the central portion 651a of one end of the corner component 650, is designed to make physical contact with, and to be pressed against the upper surface of the perimeter plateau 612 of the lower wall 610. The right angled outside portion of one end portion of the corner component 650, surrounding a corner and extending along the perimeter plateau away in both right angle directions from that corner of a lower wall 610 or upper wall 640, when connecting the corner component 650 to the lower wall 610 or upper wall 640, respectively.

[0169] Alternatively, the inside portion 658 of the corner component 650 is designed to be pressed against and preferably friction fitted into a corner portion of the channel 614 of the lower wall 610 or of the upper wall 640, when joining (connecting) the corner component 650 to the lower wall 610 or to upper wall 640, respectively.

[0170] The above referred to physical characteristics of the corner component 650, and of the lower wall 610 or of the upper wall 640, enable a physical connection (joining) between an end of the corner component 650, and either the lower wall 610, or the upper wall 640, to be aligned perpendicular in relation to a long dimension of the corner component 650 and a plane defined by either the lower wall 610 or the upper wall 640, respectively.

[0171] Furthermore, the “L” (right angle) shaped outer portion of an end of the corner component 650, while physically connected to a lower wall 610 or an upper wall 640, surrounds and extends away from the vertex of the corner of either the lower wall 610 or the upper wall., respectfully. This feature of the invention enables such a physical connection to be aligned parallel to the direction of gravity, and to be tilt resistant from outside forces, including the force of gravity, while the components of the container 100 are being assembled (joined) together.

[0172] FIG. 6G illustrates an unobstructed perspective view of a second embodiment of the lower wall 610 including apertures (openings, slots / holes) 670a, 670b, 670c, 670d, 670e, 670f, 670g, 670h, 670i, 670j, 670k, 670l (670a -670l) that are designed (configured) to receive a band 446 or strap 442 (not shown here). This embodiment of the lower wall 610 is proportioned so that it is squarer in shape than the lower wall 610 of FIGS. 6C-6D and 6F, and further, this embodiment of the lower wall 610 is much larger in size in relation to the size of the embodiment of the lower wall 610, as it is shown in FIGS. 6C, 6D and 6F, for example.

[0173] Notice that there is no physical barrier in between the channel 614 and each aperture 670a-670l. This feature of the invention enables a band 440 or strap 440 to make physical contact with a side wall 630, when a container is fully assembled (constructed). Also notice that the band 440 or strap 440 resides inside of the outer perimeter of the lower wall 610, so that it is not disposed and does not protrude all the way to the perimeter of the constructed container 600, reducing a likelihood that such a band 440 or strap 440 could become entangled or “snagged” with some other object that is located outside of the constructed container 600.

[0174] FIG. 6H illustrates two corner components 650a, 650d that are disposed above the lower wall 610 of FIG. 6G. As shown, corner component 650a is positioned just prior to being inserted into a southwest corner of the channel 614 of the lower wall 610, while corner component 650d is likewise positioned just prior to being inserted into a southeast corner of the channel 614 of the lower wall 610. Actually, the lower extension 651x portion of each corner component 650a, 650d is inserted into each of the respective southwest and southeast corners of the channel 614 of the lower wall 610.

[0175] Preferably, the dimensions of the lower extension 651x and of each of the respective southwest and southeast corners of the channel 614 are located, shaped and sized so that the insertion of the lower extension 651x friction fits into the channel 614, and so that such a friction fitted insertion causes each corner component 650a-650b to stand upright by itself, and resistant to tipping over, while being inserted into each respective southwest and southeast corner of the channel 614, and while a plane defined by the lower wall 610 is oriented parallel to the surface of the earth and oriented perpendicular to the direction of gravity. Likewise, the corner components 650b-650c are inserted into the northwest and northeast corners respectively, in the same manner as described for corner components 650a-650d.

[0176] FIG. 6I illustrates an embodiment of an assembled (constructed) container 600 of the invention. This particular embodiment of the container 600 is referred to herein as a zero-fastener container and is also referred to herein as being a fastener-less container, meaning that the container 600 shown here, as assembled (constructed) includes only container components excludes fasteners.

[0177] As defined herein, fasteners are components that are other than the container components that are described herein as forming the structure of the container 600. For this embodiment of the container 600, these container components include a lower wall component 610, four (4) corner components 650a-650d, four (4) side wall components 630a-630d and an upper wall 640 component. Examples of fasteners include, but not limited to, penetrating fasteners, which include nails, screws, staples, rivets and the like, Fasteners can also include non-penetrating fasteners, such as clamps, clips, bands, straps and belts and the like. As shown and described here, this container 600 includes no installed fasteners, penetrating or non-penetrating, and in accordance with its design, there is no requirement to install any fasteners to assemble (construct) and use this container 600.

[0178] As shown here, this container 600 is shown in a closed configuration, meaning that the structure of this container 600 is closed, and enclosing its content. In this configuration, the upper wall 640 is attached to the remaining container components that are assembled together within this container 600. In this closed configuration, one or more items (content) may or may not be enclosed (stored) within this closed container 600.

[0179] As shown here, the constructed container includes four (4) corner components 650a-650d, of which three (3) of these corner components 650a-650b and 650d, are at least partially visible from this viewing perspective. The container 600 also includes (4) side walls 630a-630d, of which two of these side walls are visible 630a-630b from this viewing perspective. The container 600 further includes a lower wall 610 and an upper wall 640, each of the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640 having a same overall shape and size and each of these walls 610,640 including a channel 614 that mirrors the size, shape and relative location of the channel 614 of the other wall 640,610.

[0180] As a result, an entire outer edge of each of the side walls 630a-630d of this container 600 can be inserted into a channel of both the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640, and as designed and when inserted, these walls 630a-630d are each oriented perpendicular to both the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640, and oriented parallel to the direction of gravity, if and when the container 600 is standing (oriented) upright with respect to the direction of gravity. The direction of gravity being parallel to the Z axis.

[0181] Alternatively, when the upper wall 640 is removed from this container 600, this container is said to be in an open configuration. When in an open configuration, the interior of this structure (container) is visible from a viewing perspective above the container 600, and any items that are stored inside of the container 600 are visible from this viewing perspective.

[0182] FIG. 6J illustrates the assembled (constructed) container 600 of the invention of FIG. 6I, in combination with one installed band fastener 446. This particular embodiment of the invention is referred to herein as a one-fastener container, meaning that the container shown here, as constructed, includes only one installed band 446 under tension in combination with other container components. This one installed band 446 being a heat bonded band 446 that is installed under tension while surrounding the container 600. As shown, this band 446 is disposed along a passageway including the apertures (holes) 670c and 670i. There is an aperture (hole) 670c that is located along the western side in each of both of the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640. There is also an aperture (hole) 670i that is located along an eastern side of each of both the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640.

[0183] Hypothetically, in other banding scenarios, a set of one or more bands under tension could be applied to the container 600 to pass through the apertures (slots / holes) 670a-670b,670c, 670d, 670e, 670f, 670g, 670h, 670i, 670j, 670k and 670l (670a -670l) each within the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640.

[0184] Alternatively, a strap, including such as a ratchet strap 442 could instead be or additionally be installed around this container 600. Such a strap 442 could be installed parallel to the heat bonded band 446 or instead installed perpendicular and / or not parallel to the installed heat bonded band 446. As installed, this band 446 is vertically oriented and it encircles (surrounds) a periphery of the container 600 and it applies a constricting (pulling / pressing / queezing) force around at least a portion of the periphery of the container 600, to cause a forcing of the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640 towards each other. This constricting force strengthening the bonding forces between the components of the container 600.

[0185] These bonding forces include the bonding forces between the lower wall 610 and the side walls 630a-630d, and between the lower wall 610 and the corner components 650a-650d, and between the upper wall 640 and the side walls 630a-630d and between the upper wall 640 and the corner components 650a-650d. Notice that this band 446 is not required to surround or encircle in whole or in part, an object other than the assembled structure of the container 600. The band 446 is also not required to make physical contact with, nor apply a force towards or attach to, an object other than the assembled structure of the container 600.

[0186] As shown, this container 600 is shown in a closed and sealed configuration, meaning that the structure of this container 600 is closed, and it is closed because an upper wall 640 is attached to the remaining components that are assembled together within this container 600.

[0187] In this closed configuration, one or items (content) may or may not be enclosed within this closed container 600. Furthermore, this container 600 is in a sealed configuration, meaning that the container is sealed via the heat bonded band 446, and this heat bonded band is designed to be severed to be uninstalled (removed) from the container.

[0188] The embodiment of the container 600 as shown here, when incorporating the walls of the container 600, are made from 15 / 32 inches thick plywood, and the corner components are cut from 3×3 inch stock pine, having dimensions of 30×30×30 inches, with a plastic liner, is designed to be capable of storing and carrying content, when disposed onto a pallet, for example, of at least 2.5 cubic feet of sandy soil. Such content would weigh about 280 pounds.

[0189] Optionally, the lower wall 610, and other walls 630a-630d can be made from plywood and designed with wider dimensions, such as for example, ¾ inches thick plywood, which should enable this container 600 to carry at least 400 pounds. With respect to plywood, the thickness of at least some of the walls, for example the lower and / or upper walls, could be further widened to 9 / 8 inches, yielding an even greater content carrying capacity for this container 600. Even if the area of the lower wall 610 is reduced by a factor of 4, and the height of the container is reduced by a factor of 3, such a relatively small container with walls made of plywood that is 15 / 32 inches thick should be able to store and carry content, such as sandy soil, weighing at the very least, 70 pounds or more.

[0190] When the container 600 is shipped from a sender (sending entity) to a receiver (receiving entity), the receiver typically expects the container 600 to be sealed as evidence that the content was not tampered with during its transport (transit) from the sender to the receiver. If the heat bonded band has been severed, or another portion of the container has been damaged prior to the container 600 being received by the receiver, this indicates evidence that some type of tampering of the container and its content has occurred prior to being received by the receiver.

[0191] Installation of this type of fastener 446 under tension applies a constricting (pressing, squeezing) force to the container 600. As shown in FIGS. 6I and 6J, the assembled (constructed) container includes four (4) corner components 650a-650d, of which three (3) of these corner components 650a-650b and 650d, are at least partially visible from this viewing perspective. The container 600 also includes (4) side walls 630a-630d, of which two of these side walls are visible 630a-630b from this viewing perspective. The container 600 further includes a lower wall 610 and an upper wall 640, each of the lower wall 610 and the upper wall 640 having a same overall shape and size and each of these walls 610,640 including a channel 614 that mirrors (having a same location, shape and size of) the channel 614 of the other wall 640,610.

[0192] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D and 7E (FIGS. 7A-7E) collectively illustrate container design features for the accommodation of banding.

[0193] FIG. 7A illustrates a side viewing perspective of an assembled container 600 that is surrounded by and constricted by each of two horizontal bands (and / or straps) 720a-720b, and while this container 600 is disposed on top of a pallet 710. As shown from this viewing perspective, the container 600 is including a lower wall 610, and upper wall 640 that are each joined to a side wall 630d. The side wall 630d is being received and joined by corner components 650a and 650d. Three other side walls 630a-630c within this container 600 are not shown (visible) from this viewing perspective. Two other corner components 650b-650c are also not shown (visible) from this viewing perspective.

[0194] The corner components 650a-650d are collectively shown as each including apertures (openings) 770a, 770d and 772a, 772d that are designed to accommodate a band or strap 720a-720b. Each aperture (opening) constitutes a portion of a passageway within which a band or strap 720a-720b can be disposed to pass through. Each band or strap 720a-720b, is each shown here as being disposed and oriented to form a horizontal loop that surrounds a periphery of the container 600, and is configured for applying a constrictive force to the container 600. The apertures 770a, 770d are each implemented as a hole (tunnel opening) that is passing internally through a portion of each of the corner components 650a and 650d.

[0195] Each of the corner components is also shown as including an aperture (notch opening) 772a, 772d, and where each aperture (notch opening) constitutes a portion of a passageway for accommodating a band or strap 720b, that is oriented in a horizontal loop and that surrounds a periphery of the container 600, and that is applying a constrictive force to the container 600. The apertures 772a ,772d are each implemented as a notch that is cut into each of the corner components 650a, 650d. Each notch is cut into and along an outside perimeter of each of the corner components 650a and 650d. Corner components 650b-650c which are not shown from this viewing perspective, also include apertures 770b-770c and 772b-772c, being either a tunnel opening or a notch opening respectively, to form a passageway for each of the bands 720a-720b respectively.

[0196] Notice that each passageway guides (holds / contains / restrains) both bands (or straps) 720a-720b to being restricted (disposed / restrained) within each passageway. As a result, these bands or straps are disposed inside of an outer (external) side perimeter (invisible) boundary of the container 600, which is indicated by a dashed line that is shown in FIGS. 4B-4C. This outer (external) side perimeter is defined by an outer perimeter of the lower wall 610 and the outer perimeter of the upper wall 640, which in combination form an invisible outermost side wall around the container 600.

[0197] From this viewing perspective, a set of downward pointing arrows 730a, 730d each point to a location along the outer invisible side perimeter wall of the container 600. The outer invisible side perimeter wall of this container 600 can also be indicated by other downward pointing arrows 730b-730c (not shown here), but could be shown from other viewing perspectives of this container 600.

[0198] Furthermore, also notice that both bands 720a-720b are disposed further inside of another outer perimeter defined by each of the corner posts 650a-650d. The passageway for each of the bands or straps 720a-720b is provided by the design of the structure of the container 600. Each passageway enables (accommodates) each of these bands 720a-720b to be disposed (tucked) inside of the outer (external) side perimeter 730a and 730d and further tucked inside of the outer perimeter defined by each of the corner posts 650a-650d of the container 600, to reduce a likelihood of either band 720a-720b making some type of physical contact (including colliding, tearing, snagging contact) with another object that is located outside and separate from the container 600.

[0199] The design of the container 600 is not restricted to providing a passageway that includes entirely one type of aperture. For example, a passageway can be designed to include a mix of different types of apertures. For example, a passageway can include a mix of one or more notches (notch openings) and / or one or more holes (tunnel openings) to accommodate passage of a band to surround and / or to constrict the container 600.

[0200] Optionally, one or more additional bands or straps can be employed to surround and / or constrict a combination of the container 600 and the pallet 710 upon which the container 600 is disposed upon. The pallet 710 provides openings through which a pair of prongs that extend from a fork lift machine can be inserted, for the purpose of lifting and / or moving the container 600 to one or more locations.

[0201] FIG. 7B illustrates a side view of a container 600 like that shown in FIG. 7A, but instead this container 600 is not surrounded by the horizontal bands or straps720a-720b and is instead being surrounded and constricted by one vertical oriented band or strap 720c. Like the container 600 of FIG. 7A, this container 600 is being disposed above of a pallet 710. As shown, the container 600 is including a lower wall 610, and an upper wall 640 that are each joined to a side wall 630d. The side wall 630d is being received and joined by corner components 650a and 650d.

[0202] The lower wall 610 is including an aperture (opening), being a channel 774x (channel opening) that is cut into a lower outside surface of the lower wall 610 and cut in a direction that is parallel to the Y axis. The upper wall 640 also including an aperture (opening), being a channel 774y (channel opening) that is also cut in a direction that is parallel to the Y axis and into an upper outside surface of the lower wall 640. From this viewing perspective, an entrance of each channel that is bounding an end portion of each of these channels 774x-774y is shown here. The entrance (end portion) of each of these channels 774x-774y projects an appearance of a notch, from this viewing perspective.

[0203] The band or strap 720c is disposed within both of the channels 774x and 774y, and is disposed above the lower outside wall of the lower wall 610, and also disposed below the upper outside wall of the upper wall 640. Each of the apertures (channel openings) 774x, 774y constituting a portion of a passageway for the band or strap 720c. The band or strap 720c is oriented in a vertical loop and is surrounding a periphery of the container 600, and is applying a constrictive force to the container 600. The apertures 774x, 774y are each implemented as a channel, having a rectangular shaped cross-section, that is cut into an outside surface of each of the lower wall 610 and an upper wall 640, of the container 600. The channel 774y is also shown from a different viewing perspective as shown in FIG. 7C.

[0204] As a result, the band 720c is disposed inside of a lower external perimeter (being parallel to the lower outside wall of the lower wall 640) and also disposed inside of an upper external perimeter (being parallel to the upper outside wall of the upper wall 640).

[0205] The passageway for the band 720c enables the band 720c to be disposed (tucked) inside of the lower external perimeter and inside of the upper perimeter of the container 600, to reduce a likelihood of the band making some type of physical contact (including colliding, tearing, snagging) with another object that is located outside and separate from the container 600.

[0206] FIG. 7C illustrates a top-down view of the container 600 of FIG. 7B. This container 600 is being surrounded and optionally constricted with the one vertical oriented band or strap 720c, while this container 600 is being disposed on top of a pallet (As shown in FIG. 7B). As shown here, the channel 774y is cut into the thickness of the upper wall 640 of the container 640, and this channel spans across the upper outer outside surface of the upper wall 640 of the container 600, and this channel 774y spans in a direction that is parallel to the Y axis.

[0207] Preferably, this channel 774y is cut approximately half way through, and not entirely through, the thickness of this wall 640, where the thickness of this wall 640 is measured in a direction that is parallel to the Z axis. The thickness of this wall 640 also happens to be the shortest dimension of this wall 640.

[0208] As shown, the band or strap 720c is disposed within the channel 774y. Also as shown, a width of the channel 774y as measured in a direction that is parallel to the X axis, is wider than a width of the band or strap 720c that is disposed within the channel 774y. The width of the band or strap is also measured in a direction that is parallel to the X axis.

[0209] Also, as shown from this viewing perspective, the opposite ends (entrances) 776y, 776z of the channel 774y are each designed to provide a notched opening to the channel 774y. Each notched opening is cut entirely through the thickness of the upper wall 640 of the container 600.

[0210] Preferably, each of the notched openings is cut parallel to an outside surface of a side wall 630a-630d that is adjacent to the channel 774y so that the band or strap 720c can make continuous physical contact with and hug a side wall 630a-630d upon entering the channel 774y itself. This preferred embodiment of the notched opening 776y-776z reduces a likelihood of the band or strap 720c making physical contact (colliding, tearing or snagging) with an object, that is other than the container 600 itself.

[0211] Like the channel 774y itself, each notched opening constitutes a portion of a passageway within which the band or strap 720c resides. while surrounding the container 600 while oriented as a vertical loop, as also shown in FIG. 7B. This notched opening enables the band or strap 720c to be disposed inside of the most proximate external side perimeter where the external side perimeter is defined to be parallel to each one of edges of the outside perimeter of the upper wall 640 of the container 600.

[0212] As a result, the band 720c is disposed inside of both of two side external side perimeters (each being parallel to each one of two edges of the outside perimeter of the upper wall 640 that includes a notch 776y and 776z), as shown here.

[0213] This passageway for the band 720c enables the band 720c to be disposed (tucked) inside both of the aforementioned external side perimeters of the container 600, as shown here, to reduce a likelihood of the band 720c making physical contact (colliding, tearing or snagging) with another object.

[0214] FIG. 7D illustrates a side view of a container 600 similar to that shown in FIG. 7B, where the container is instead surrounded by a different band / strap configuration as compared to that of FIG. 7B.

[0215] As shown, this container is surrounded band / strap 720b like that shown in FIG. 7B. But however, this container 600 is instead also surrounded by one horizontal oriented band / strap 770c that is shown to not pass through an aperture from this viewing perspective. And further, this container 600 is surrounded by two vertical oriented bands / straps720d-720e that each tie (couple) the container 600 to the pallet 710, upon which the container 600 is disposed upon.

[0216] Practicing the invention does not necessarily require that each and every band / strap pass through an aperture, such as through tunnel opening or notch opening and / or channel, while bending around a corner or extending along an outside surface of the container 600. By not passing through an aperture, the band / strap 770c is not installed within nor passing through a passageway that is provided by the designed structure of the container 600.

[0217] But however, in accordance with the invention, it is preferred that a band or strap pass through an aperture when it is bending around a corner of the container 600. Each aperture is designed to restrict the movement of a band or strap, and further, each aperture is designed to restrict how far a band or strap can be located away from an outside surface of the container, in order to minimize a likelihood of that band or strap making physical contact with another object, such as physical contact via colliding with, tearing upon and / or snagging upon another object.

[0218] The pallet 710 provides a means for a fork lift to lift and move the container 600, that is disposed on top of the pallet 710. Furthermore, some containers, and especially larger containers, can store heavy content that can put a large downward force upon the lower wall 610 of the container 600.

[0219] In response to this type of circumstance, a pallet 710 can be placed below such a container to provide additional structural support to the lower wall of the container, as well as to provide a means for a fork lift to lift and move the container 600. Notice that the pallet 710 sits upon (3) feet (joists) 712a-712c that provide substantial additional strength and structural support to the lower wall 610 of the container 600 from the forces of gravity.

[0220] As shown, the vertically oriented band / straps 720d-720e tie (couple) the container 600 to the pallet 710. Notice that the band / straps 720d-720e do not pass through a channel aperture cut within the upper outside surface of the upper wall 640, like that shown in FIG. 7C. But however, as best shown in FIG. 7E, the upper wall 640 does instead provide apertures in the form of notch openings 772w-772x for each of these band / straps 720d-720e.

[0221] FIG. 7E illustrates a top-down view of the container 600 of FIG. 7D. This container 600 is surrounded by two vertical oriented bands / straps720d-720e that each tie (couple) the container 600 to the pallet 710, upon which the container 600 is disposed upon.

[0222] As shown, and unlike that shown in FIG. 7B, there is no channel cut into the upper outside surface of the upper wall 640 of the container 600, within which each band / strap 720d-720e can pass through. Instead, each band / strap 720d-720e hugs the upper outside surface of the upper wall 640. Also, each band / strap 720d-720e passes through the apertures, being the notch openings, 772w-772y for the band / strap 720d and notch openings 772x-772z for the band strap 720e.

[0223] The notch openings 772w-772z are each cut into the outer perimeter of the upper wall 640 of the container 600 and are preferably each cut flush with each respective side wall 630b, 630d that resides just below each notch opening, so than each band / strap 720d-720e can hug each side wall 630b, 630d and be disposed as maximally close as possible to each respective side wall 630b, 630d of the container 600.Materials

[0224] Types of wood are sourced from various types of tree species, and such types of wood can be divided into the two general categories, being that of hardwood and softwood. Hardwood, which is also referred to herein as “hard wood” or “harder wood”, includes such as ash, cherry, hickory, maple, oak, poplar and walnut, for example. Softwood, which is also referred to herein as “soft wood” or as“softer wood”, includes such as cedar, fir, hemlock, pine, spruce and redwood, as examples.

[0225] Plywood, having a name implying that it is another type of wood, is actually manufactured from a combination of wood and one or more other non-wood types of material. Also, particle board, is also manufactured from wood and one or more other types of non-wood material.

[0226] Within the scope of the description of this invention, a wood-based material is defined as a material that includes 30 percent or more of wood of any type, based upon a cumulative amount of volume and / or weight of any type of wood that is included within a material including one or more types of wood. Both plywood and particle board, fall within the above recited definition of a wood-based material. Plywood and particle board typically fall into the category of wood-based material.

[0227] Also, there is a class of material that possess similar characteristics of wood, such as known as composite material or wood based composite material. Such material may or may not include some form of wood within it, and this material is referred to herein as being wood-like material. Such wood-like material can often be cut via computer numerical control (CNC) machining and can be employed to manufacture components in accordance with the invention.

[0228] The hardness of a type of wood or of a wood-based material can be measured (rated) via Janka Wood Hardness Rating (JWHR). The JWHR employs a unit of measurement being “pounds-force”, which is also referred to as “LBF”, which is a measurement that quantifies an amount of force required to embed a steel ball into a sample of a particular type of wood. The higher the LBF required to embed a steel ball into a type of wood, the higher the hardness rating is for that type of wood.

[0229] Generally, working with harder wood can require a larger amount of cost and / or effort to cut and to dimension raw hard wood stock into components made from such hard wood, where to dimension means to cut, shape and size (manufacture) a component that is made from raw stock of hard wood, than an amount effort cost and / or effort required to cut and to dimension (manufacture) a component that is made from raw stock of soft wood. Also, hard wood is typically heavier (having a higher density) than soft wood and typically requires more effort and energy to lift and move between different locations. Furthermore, hard wood is generally desired to make finished (polished surface) components such as for fine furniture and other finished wood craft, and such hard wood is typically more expensive to purchase than soft wood.

[0230] In accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention, making containers from softer wood is generally preferred to reduce an amount of cost and effort to manufacture various types of container components. However, a disadvantage of selecting softer wood for manufacturing container components, is that softer wood generally possesses less strength than harder wood, and as a result, components that are made from such softer wood are more prone to and are less resistant to, bending and breaking.Structural Strength and Integrity

[0231] In accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention, a container that is designed to incorporate into its structure, one or more passageways for accommodating banding upon the container, such a container receives a beneficial effect of enhanced structural strength and structural integrity when sealed with such banding. Each passageway is designed to include within it, a mechanism for applying a constricting force, such as a band or a strap, upon the container.

[0232] This beneficial effect generally increases a capacity of such a (banded / strapped) container to provide a reliable enclosure for protection of its content, and especially in circumstances where the container is enclosing heavier and / or fragile content and / or in circumstances involving lifting, stacking, moving and / or shipping of the container and its enclosed content.

[0233] The structural strength of the container depends upon maintaining the constricting (tensile) forces that are applied to the container via the one or more bands / straps that were installed upon the container. Preferably, such bands / straps remain at the same locations upon the container as where they were originally installed upon the container.

[0234] In other words, a location of a band or strap surrounding a container could drift away from its original installed location upon the container, and especially if the band or strap is not installed within apertures (openings) provided by a passageway provided by the design of the container. Such an event could happen due to physical contact between the container and some other object.

[0235] For example, a horizontal oriented band or strap could be pulled by gravity and could drift (fall) downward due to a container side wall being pushed inwards, even slightly, causing a substantial reduction or elimination of the constricting tensile force between the band or strap and the container.

[0236] If this band or strap is installed upon the container outside of the apertures residing within any one passageway, there likely would be no other structural feature of the container that would prevent the band or strap from falling in the direction of gravity. Such an event can eliminate the constricting tensile force that was originally applied by that band or strap when it was installed upon the container, causing a reduction in the structural strength and integrity of that container.

[0237] Conversely, if that same band or strap is installed (restrained) within the apertures of a passageway that are designed (manufactured) into the container, then those apertures (openings), and especially such as tunnel apertures for example, more reliably retain and restrain the band or strap from drifting away from its original installed location upon the container.Container Size Considerations

[0238] Ideally, each component is constituted by one and only one whole unit, or else is cut from one and only one whole unit of material stock. For example, a lower wall can be constituted from one whole sheet of plywood, or else is cut from one whole sheet of plywood.

[0239] If a plywood sheet has broad side area dimensions of 4 foot by 8 foot and a thickness of one inch, then the lower wall could have a broad area size of 4 foot by 8 foot equaling 32 square feet.

[0240] Hypothetically for example, this lower wall could be oriented so that its longest dimension (8 foot length) is oriented parallel to an X axis, its shorter dimension (4 foot width) is oriented parallel to a Y axis, and its shortest (thickness) dimension is oriented parallel to the Z axis, like in accordance with the axes shown in FIG. 7A. Likewise a corresponding upper wall could be sized and oriented in the same manner.

[0241] Two side walls, each having a longest dimension oriented parallel to the X axis, would also each be constituted by one whole sheet of plywood of for example, one half inch thickness. The two remaining side walls of the same one-half inch thickness, would each have a broad side that is 4 foot by 4 foot in its broad area size, and each of these two remaining 4 foot by 4 foot side walls would be oriented with their broad sides being parallel to the Y axis. Four corner components, configured to receive an edge of each side wall, would each have a height dimension of 4 feet.

[0242] This hypothetical container would now have it outer dimensions equal to 8 foot by 4 foot by 4 foot along the X, Y and Z axes respectively. This hypothetical container would have a volume of 128 cubic feet, without requiring employment any penetrating fasteners or adhesives.

[0243] However, if desired, this container can be expanded in size by abutting another 8 foot by 4 foot by one-inch thick whole sheet of plywood, to extend the Y axis dimension of the container from 4 feet to 8 feet. The two abutting sheets of plywood, forming an enlarged lower wall, could be placed upon an 8 foot by 8 foot area pallet, to provide needed structural support to support the lower wall, and by increasing the side walls parallel to the Y axis to 8 feet in length, increasing the dimensions of this enlarged container to being 8 foot by 8 foot by 4 foot along X, Y and Z axes respectively, the volume of the hypothetical container to twice its original size, being now 256 cubic feet.

[0244] Likewise, another expansion can be performed to increase the height of the container along the Z axis, by abutting (stacking) side walls on top of each other and by increasing the height of the corner components to 8 feet in height, in a similar fashion, to create an 8 foot by 8 foot by 8 foot container, without requiring employment any penetrating fasteners or adhesives.

[0245] This written description uses example embodiments to disclose the invention, to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.PARTS LIST110 lower wall of a container 100

[0247] 112 perimeter plateau of lower wall 110

[0248] 114 channel (valley) of lower wall 110

[0249] 116 central plateau of lower wall 110

[0250] 118 center point location of lower wall 110

[0251] 120 channel of lower wall 110

[0252] 170 aperture (passageway / slot / hole) for receiving a band 446 or strap 442 for container 100

[0253] 190 horizontal cross-sectional viewing perspective of the lower wall

[0254] 210 side wall(s) of the container 100

[0255] 212 beveled edge type of physical contact between side walls 210

[0256] 214 abutting type of physical contact between side walls 210

[0257] 216 notched type of physical contact between side walls 210

[0258] 310 upper wall of the container 100

[0259] 316 central plateau of upper wall 310

[0260] 320 channel of upper wall 310

[0261] 322a outer perimeter of channel 320

[0262] 322b inner perimeter of channel 320

[0263] 430 horizontal cross-sectional viewing perspective of container and band

[0264] 440 band or strap

[0265] 440a vertical oriented band for “L” shaped container

[0266] 440b horizontal oriented band for “T” shaped container

[0267] 440c vertical oriented band for modified triangle shaped container

[0268] 442 ratchet strap

[0269] 444 ratchet portion of ratchet strap

[0270] 446 heat bonded band

[0271] 448 horizontally wrapped band

[0272] 452 locking (lockable) ratchet strap

[0273] 456 external section of band

[0274] 458 internal section of band

[0275] 460 external band anchor

[0276] 462 internal band anchor

[0277] 510a “L” shaped container

[0278] 510b “T” shaped container

[0279] 510c modified triangle shaped container

[0280] 600 container

[0281] 610 lower wall of container including corner components 610

[0282] 612 perimeter plateau of lower wall 610

[0283] 614 channel of lower wall 610

[0284] 616 central plateau of the lower wall 610

[0285] 618 center point location of the lower wall 610

[0286] 630 side wall of container including corner component(s) 650

[0287] 632 channel (groove) of side wall 630 of container 600 including a corner component(s)

[0288] 640 upper wall of container including corner components 610

[0289] 646 heat bonded band surrounding the container of FIGS. 6A-6J

[0290] 650 corner component of container 600

[0291] 651 vertical extension of the inner portion 658 of the corner component 650.

[0292] 652 outer wall of corner component 650

[0293] 654 cavity for receiving a side wall 630 of container 600

[0294] 656 protrusion of corner component 650 for engaging side wall 630

[0295] 658 inner portion of corner component 650

[0296] 658a diagonal surface of inner portion of corner component 650

[0297] 710 pallet

[0298] 712 feet (joists) of the pallet 710

[0299] 720 band or strap

[0300] 730a-730d arrows indicating outer side perimeter boundary (Like shown in FIGS. 4B-4C)

[0301] 770 aperture (opening) of the tunnel type

[0302] 772 aperture (opening) of the notch type

[0303] 774 aperture (opening) of the channel type

[0304] 776 entrance (opening) located at an end of an aperture of the channel type 774

Claims

1. A container made from a wood and / or a wood-based material, being designed for storing and / or shipping one or more items as content, and further designed to be assembled and disassembled without requiring employment of penetrating fasteners, the container including:a set of components that are each made from a wood and / or a wood-based material; said set of components including:a lower wall and an upper wall, a plurality of four side walls, and a plurality of four corner components;said lower wall and said upper wall each including a one or more channel segments and an outer margin surrounding said channel segments; and wherein each said channel segments is designed for receiving an edge portion of each of one said side walls, and further designed for receiving an end portion of each of one of said plurality of corner components, and whereinsaid lower wall and said upper wall, said side walls and said corner components being configured for joining together to form an assembled container, and wherein said joining together does not require employment of any type of penetrating fasteners; and whereinat least some of said set of components are designed to include one or more apertures, said apertures being designed to collectively form one or more constricting passageways within which a belt or strap can be disposed, said constricting passageways being designed for surrounding said assembled container.

2. The container of claim 1 wherein said at least some of said set of components including one or more apertures, include at least one of said lower wall and said upper wall.

3. The container of claim 1 wherein said at least some of said set of components including one or more apertures, include one or more of said corner components.

4. The container of claim 1 wherein said apertures include one or more channels that are cut into at least one of said lower wall and said upper wall.

5. The container of claim 1 wherein a band or strap is disposed into at least one of said one or more of said passageways formed within said assembled container.

6. The container of claim 5 wherein a tensile force is applied to said belt or strap to apply a constricting force to said assembled container.

7. The container of claim 6 wherein said constricting force is applied to said assembled container by pulling said lower wall and said upper wall towards each other.

8. The container of claim 7 wherein said constricting force is of an amount that is greater than or equal to 50 pounds of force.

9. The container of claim 1 wherein said container includes at least one internal band anchor.

10. The container of claim 1 wherein said container includes at least one external band anchor.

11. The container of claim 1 wherein at least one or more corner components are cut from a material that is classified as a type of wood.

12. The container of claim 1 wherein at least one of said lower wall, said upper wall or said side wall components are cut from a material that is classified as type of wood-based material.

13. The container of claim 1 wherein said container is configured for assembly by human hands, and while not requiring use of tools and without application of any adhesive and without requiring installation or removal of any penetrating fastener from any of said components.

14. The container of claim 1 wherein at least some of said plurality of components are manufactured by cutting raw stock via computer numerical controlled (CNC) machine.

15. A method for storing and / or shipping one or more items as content, the method including the actions of:providing or acquiring a set of components that are each made from a wood and / or a wood-based material; said set of components including;a lower wall and an upper wall, a plurality of four side walls, and a plurality of four corner components; and whereinsaid lower wall and said upper wall, said side walls and said corner components being configured for joining together to form an assembled container, and wherein said joining together does not require employment of any type of penetrating fasteners; and whereinat least some of said set of components are designed to include one or more apertures, said apertures being designed to collectively form one or more constricting passageways within which a belt or strap can be disposed, said constricting passageways being designed for surrounding said assembled container; andproviding or acquiring one or more bands or straps;joining together said components to form an assembled container;storing content within said assembled container;sealing said assembled container by installing said one or more bands or straps, and applying a tensile force to said one or more bands or straps.

16. A method for sending items from a first location to a second location, including actions of:providing an assembled container that is designed to be disassembled and reassembled and that requires no installation or removal of penetrating fasteners and that requires no application or removal of adhesive for assembly or disassembly of the assembled container; andstoring items within said container; andclosing and sealing said container with a band or strap;arranging for transportation of said container from a first location to a receiver at a second location; andreceiving said container in a disassembled form from said receiver at said second location; andreassembling said container for reuse of said container.

17. The method of claim 16 including the action of performing a repair upon said container in disassembled form, if applicable; after said step of receiving, and sending a monetary credit to said receiver in exchange for sending said container in disassembled form to said first location.

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