Structural Shell Insert for Soft-Shell Lunchboxes

Abstract

The present invention is a lunchbox shell insert device to enhance the functionality of soft-shell lunchboxes by providing structural support, selectively preventing collapse, and ensuring food protection. The device includes a main body with a base and a plurality of walls extending upward to define an open top, which can be enclosed using a sealing lid with an airtight and leak-resistant seal. In one embodiment, the insert features accordion-style collapsible walls, enabling it to transition between an expanded state for food storage and a collapsed state for compact transport. In another embodiment, the insert incorporates a temperature sensor that detects internal food temperature and transmits alerts to a paired device. The device is designed for compatibility with standard soft-shell lunchboxes, offering a durable, spill-resistant, and versatile food storage solution for students, professionals, and outdoor users.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 747,495 which was filed on Jan. 21, 2025 and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention generally relates to lunchbox accessories and food storage solutions. More specifically, the invention relates to a removable shell insert for soft-shell lunchboxes. The lunchbox shell insert features a lightweight, box-like (i.e., rectilinear) structure that fits inside a conventional soft-shell lunchbox, preventing it from collapsing while providing a secure, upright compartment for food storage. In some embodiments, the insert includes a sealing lid with an airtight and leak-resistant seal to prevent spills and maintain food freshness. The insert may also incorporate insulated walls for temperature control, antimicrobial coatings for food safety, and a collapsible design for compact storage when not in use. The invention is designed to accommodate various lunchbox sizes and user needs. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.BACKGROUND

[0003] By way of background, individuals commonly carry their own meals in soft-shell lunchboxes made of polyester, fabric, or other flexible materials when going to work, school, or traveling. The soft-shell lunchboxes are popular due to their lightweight, portable, and insulated nature, which helps in maintaining food temperature. However, despite their advantages, soft-shell lunchboxes pose several challenges that affect the integrity of food storage and user convenience.

[0004] Soft-shell lunchboxes also lack structural support, making the lunchboxes susceptible to collapsing, folding, or being squished under external pressure. As a result, delicate food items such as sandwiches, fruits, or pastries can become crushed or deformed during transport. Additionally, when the lunchbox is compressed, liquid-containing items, such as juice boxes or containers with sauces, may spill, causing messes inside the lunchbox and potentially ruining other stored items. Furthermore, the soft material of the lunchbox itself can lose its shape over time, reducing its durability and making it less effective for long-term use. Individuals desire a structural device that enhances the functionality of soft-shell lunchboxes, providing stability, spill protection, and improved food safety.

[0005] Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a lunchbox shell insert that addresses the challenges associated with soft-shell lunchboxes lacking structural support. There is a long-felt need for a solution that functions as a storage box for lunch items like food and beverages, preventing any damage or spills to the items. Additionally, there is a long-felt need for a system that provides a secure and stable interior compartment, preventing spills and maintaining food integrity during transport. Furthermore, there is a long-felt need for a durable insert that enhances the longevity of soft-shell lunchboxes by reinforcing their structure. More specifically, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a lightweight, removable insert that can transform a soft-shell lunchbox into a sturdy, spill-resistant container while retaining its portability. Finally, there is a long-felt need for an innovative lunchbox insert that is easy to clean, customizable, and capable of addressing the limitations of traditional soft-shell lunchboxes.

[0006] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment, comprises a lunchbox system. The system comprises a soft-shell lunchbox having a top closure mechanism for enclosing a storage compartment, a removable hard-shell insert is configured to fit within the soft-shell lunchbox, the hard-shell insert comprises a main body having a base and a plurality of rigid walls extending from the base, defining an open top, a sealing lid is configured to be removably attachable to the open top of the main body, wherein the sealing lid includes a peripheral sleeve that forms an airtight and leak-resistant seal with a top edge of the main body, wherein the hard-shell insert provides structural support to the soft-shell lunchbox, preventing collapse and enhancing food protection while maintaining portability and flexibility.

[0007] In this manner, the lunchbox shell insert of the present invention fulfills the aforementioned needs by providing an effective and organized solution for enhancing the structure and functionality of soft-shell lunchboxes. The shell insert reinforces the lunchbox, preventing the lunchbox from collapsing and protecting food items from being crushed or damaged during transport. The insert features a secure, spill-resistant compartment that keeps food upright and minimizes leaks, ensuring a mess-free experience. Additionally, the insert is removable and easy to clean, enabling users to maintain hygiene without washing the entire lunchbox. In some embodiments, the insert includes insulated walls for temperature control and antimicrobial coatings for food safety. Furthermore, the insert is lightweight and designed to fit various soft-shell lunchbox sizes, making it ideal for students, professionals, travelers, and meal preppers.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0009] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a lunchbox shell insert device for use with a soft-shell lunchbox. The insert device comprises a main body having a base and a plurality of walls extending upwardly from the edges of the base, defining an open top, a sealing lid is removably attachable to the open top of the main body, wherein the sealing lid includes a peripheral sleeve configured to form an airtight and leak-resistant seal with a top edge of the main body, wherein the main body is dimensioned to fit within a soft-shell lunchbox to provide structural support, preventing the soft-shell lunchbox from collapsing.

[0010] In another aspect, a collapsible lunchbox shell insert device for use with a soft-shell lunchbox is disclosed. The insert device includes a main body having a base and a plurality of walls, wherein the walls include a plurality of accordion-style partitions that enable the main body to transition between an expanded state for food storage and a collapsed state for compact storage, a sealing lid is pivotally secured to the main body via at least one hinge, the lid is transitionable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the collapsible lunchbox shell insert device is configured to provide structural support within a soft-shell lunchbox when in the expanded state, and to be easily stored when in the collapsed state.

[0011] In one embodiment, a lunchbox shell insert device for use with a soft-shell lunchbox is disclosed. The lunchbox shell insert device includes a main body having a base and a plurality of walls, the main body defines an open top, a sealing lid is configured to be removably attachable to the main body to enclose the open top, a temperature sensor is disposed within the main body, the temperature sensor is configured to detect the temperature inside the main body and wirelessly transmit a temperature alert to a paired external device when the temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, wherein the lunchbox shell insert device is dimensioned to fit within a soft-shell lunchbox to provide structural support and maintain food safety by monitoring temperature conditions.

[0012] In yet another aspect, the accordion-style partitions secure the main body in the expanded state to prevent accidental collapse when in use.

[0013] In still another embodiment, the shell insert has an antimicrobial protection for food safety.

[0014] Numerous benefits and advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains upon reading and understanding of the following detailed specification.

[0015] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of lunchbox shell insert device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view showing how the hard-shell insert is placed within a soft lunchbox in accordance with the disclosed structure;

[0019] FIG. 3 illustrates an enlarged view of the peripheral sleeve of the sealing lid in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the hard-shell insert of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed structure; and

[0021] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view showing hard-shell inserts of different sizes and colors in accordance with the disclosed structure of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0022] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0023] As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a lunchbox shell insert that addresses the challenges associated with soft-shell lunchboxes lacking structural support. There is a long-felt need for a solution that functions as a storage box for lunch items like food and beverages, preventing any damage or spills to the items. Additionally, there is a long-felt need for a system that provides a secure and stable interior compartment, preventing spills and maintaining food integrity during transport. Furthermore, there is a long-felt need for a durable insert that enhances the longevity of soft-shell lunchboxes by reinforcing their structure. More specifically, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a lightweight, removable insert that can transform a soft-shell lunchbox into a sturdy, spill-resistant container while retaining its portability. Finally, there is a long-felt need for an innovative lunchbox insert that is easy to clean, customizable, and capable of addressing the limitations of traditional soft-shell lunchboxes.

[0024] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is a lunchbox shell insert device for use with a soft-shell lunchbox. The lunchbox shell insert device includes a main body having a base and a plurality of walls, the main body defines an open top, a sealing lid is configured to be removably attachable to the main body to enclose the open top, a temperature sensor is disposed within the main body, the temperature sensor is configured to detect the temperature inside the main body and wirelessly transmit a temperature alert to a paired external device when the temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, wherein the lunchbox shell insert device is dimensioned to fit within a soft-shell lunchbox to provide structural support and maintain food safety by monitoring temperature conditions.

[0025] Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts.

[0026] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of lunchbox shell insert device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The lunchbox shell insert device 100 of the present invention is an accessory designed to enhance the functionality of soft-shell lunchboxes. The lunchbox shell insert 100 is a lightweight, box-like (i.e., rectilinear) structure that fits inside a standard soft lunchbox and prevents the lunchbox from collapsing, enabling it to stand upright. More specifically, the lunchbox shell insert 100 includes a main body or shell 102 for storing, transporting, and for retaining the temperature of heated or chilled food. The main body 102 includes a plurality of rigid walls 104a-d, wherein each wall extends from the edges 108a-d respectively of a base 106 of the main body 102.

[0027] The main body 102 has an open top 110 which can be covered using a sealing lid 112 for securing the items stored inside the main body 102. The sealing lid 112 is preferably rectangular or square (i.e., rectilinear) and is dimensioned to secure to the top edge 114 of the main body 102. The top edge 114 of the main body 102 forms an airtight and leak-resistant seal with the peripheral sleeve 116 of the lid 112 to prevent the food items stored in the insert 100 from spilling. In the present embodiment, the lid 112 is designed to be completely removed from the main body 102 to provide access of the stored items to a user. The sealing lid 112 also helps keep the food fresh by minimizing air exposure.

[0028] The insert 100 can have insulated walls to keep the food hot or cold. The inner surface 118 of the walls 104a-d can have antimicrobial coating or embedded silver-ion embedded materials to prevent bacterial growth. In the preferred embodiment, a Bluetooth temperature sensor 120 is disposed in the main body 102 for detecting temperature of the main body 102 and the sensor 120 can further provide an alert to a paired device (not shown) such as a smartphone when temperature of the food inside (i.e., internal temperature of) the insert 100 becomes more or less than a predetermined threshold.

[0029] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view showing how the hard-shell insert is placed within a soft lunchbox in accordance with the disclosed structure. The lunchbox hard shell insert device 100 is dimensioned as per various lunchbox dimensions, thereby enabling a user to insert the lunchbox hard shell insert device 100 into a conventional lunchbox 202 for structural support and transforming the soft-shell lunchbox 202 into sturdy and spill-resistant containers.

[0030] In use, the main body 102 is put inside the soft-shell lunchbox 202 and any food item can be stored inside the main body 102. The lid 112 is used for closing the top opening of the main body 102 and the flap 204 of the lunchbox 202 can be fastened using zipper 206 or any other fastener. The lunchbox hard shell insert device 100 when placed inside the soft-shell lunchbox 202, prevents the lunchbox 202 from collapsing, enabling the lunchbox 202 to stand upright. The hard-shell insert 100 shields delicate food items (e.g., sandwiches, fruits) from getting crushed and helps maintain the shape of the main body 102 and integrity of pre-packed meals stored therein.

[0031] FIG. 3 illustrates an enlarged view of the peripheral sleeve of the sealing lid in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The peripheral sleeve 116 of the sealing lid 112 includes a continuous silicone gasket 302 disposed around the inner edge 304 of the sleeve 116. When the sealing lid 112 is pressed against the main body 102, the gasket 302 is compressed against the top edge 114 of the main body 102 for an airtight fit of the lid 112 and the main body 102 and transition the hard-shell insert 100 into a closed state.

[0032] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the hard-shell insert of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed structure. In the present embodiment, the hard-shell insert 400 is collapsible and includes a plurality of accordion style partitions 402 which enable the insert 400 to collapse when the top edge 404 is pressed. The collapsible structure of the hard-shell insert 400 enables users to conveniently store and transport the hard-shell insert 400 when the hard-shell insert 400 is not required to store food. The partitions 402 run across the walls of the main body 406 of the hard-shell insert 400 and can be designed based on shape and size of the soft-shell lunchboxes.

[0033] The lid 408 in the present embodiment is secured to the main body 406 using a pivoting hinges 410 that enable a user to transition the lid 408 from an open position where the lid 408 does not cover the main body 406 to a closed position where the lid 408 covers the main body 406.

[0034] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view showing hard-shell inserts of different sizes and colors in accordance with the disclosed structure of the present invention. The hard-shell insert 100, 400 of different embodiments are dimensioned to proper fit inside standard soft lunchboxes without adding excessive bulk. The set of inserts 500 can be designed in different sizes as illustrated in FIG. 5 for hard-shell insert of FIG. 1. The hard-shell inserts can be made in different designs and colors and can also be made BPA-free and food grade materials.

[0035] In some embodiments, the hard-shell insert of the present invention can have adjustable dividers therein that help separate different food items for better organization. The hard-shell insert for lunchboxes can be used by students, office workers, travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and meal preppers who require a durable and spill-resistant lunch storage solution.

[0036] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “hard-shell insert”, “lunchbox hard shell insert device”, “structural shell insert for soft-shell lunchboxes”, “collapsible and removable hard-shell insert”, and “insert” are interchangeable and refer to the lunchbox hard shell insert device 100, 400 of the present invention.

[0037] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the lunchbox hard shell insert device 100, 400 of the present invention can be of any suitable configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the lunchbox hard shell insert device 100, 400 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other configurations of the lunchbox hard shell insert device 100, 400 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the lunchbox hard shell insert device 100, 400 are important design parameters for user convenience, the lunchbox hard shell insert device 100, 400 may be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and / or that suits the user's needs and / or preferences.

[0038] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0039] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

1. A lunchbox device comprising:a soft-shell lunchbox; anda shell insert having a main body including a plurality of insulated walls;wherein said shell insert having a rectilinear structure for selectively fitting into said soft-shell lunchbox for providing structural support and standing said soft-shell lunchbox upright;wherein said plurality of insulated walls having a coating on an inner surface selected from the group consisting of an antimicrobial coating and embedded silver-ion materials;wherein said main body having a Bluetooth temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of said main body; andfurther wherein said Bluetooth temperature sensor sends an alert to a paired device when an internal temperature of said main body becomes more than a predetermined threshold temperature.

2. The lunchbox device of claim 1, wherein said main body having a plurality of insulated walls extending from edges of a base of said main body.

3. The lunchbox device of claim 2, wherein said insulated walls store, transport, and retain a temperature of contents within said main body.

4. The lunchbox device of claim 3, wherein said sealing lid selectively covers said main body for securing items stored inside said main body.

5. The lunchbox device of claim 4 further comprising a sealing lid, wherein said sealing lid is rectilinear including a peripheral sleeve for securing to a top edge of said main body for forming an airtight and leak-resistant seal with said peripheral sleeve.

6. The lunchbox device of claim 5, wherein said sealing lid selectively removable from said main body.

7. The lunchbox device of claim 6, wherein said plurality of insulated walls are rigid for maintaining a shape of said main body.

8. A lunchbox device comprising:a soft-shell lunchbox; anda shell insert having a main body including a plurality of insulated walls and a sealing lid;wherein said shell insert having a rectilinear structure for selectively fitting into said soft-shell lunchbox for providing structural support and standing said soft-shell lunchbox upright;wherein said plurality of insulated walls having a coating on an inner surface selected from the group consisting of an antimicrobial coating and embedded silver-ion materials;wherein said main body having a Bluetooth temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of said main body;wherein said sealing lid selectively covers said main body for securing items stored inside said main body;wherein said sealing lid is rectilinear including a peripheral sleeve for securing to a top edge of said main body for forming an airtight and leak-resistant seal with said peripheral sleeve;wherein said peripheral sleeve having a continuous silicone gasket disposed around an inner edge of said peripheral sleeve; andfurther wherein said continuous silicone gasket compresses against said top edge of said main body when said sealing lid is secured to said main body for transitioning said shell insert to a closed state.

9. The lunchbox device of claim 8, wherein said main body having a plurality of insulated walls extending from edges of a base of said main body.

10. The lunchbox device of claim 9, wherein said insulated walls store, transport, and retain a temperature of contents within said main body.

11. The lunchbox device of claim 10, wherein said Bluetooth temperature sensor sends an alert to a paired device when an internal temperature of said main body becomes more than a predetermined threshold temperature.

12. The lunchbox device of claim 11, wherein said sealing lid is selectively removable from said main body.

13. The lunchbox device of claim 12, wherein said plurality of insulated walls are rigid for maintaining a shape of said main body.

14. A lunchbox device comprising:a soft-shell lunchbox; anda shell insert having a main body including a plurality of collapsible walls and a sealing lid;wherein said shell insert having a rectilinear structure for selectively fitting into said soft-shell lunchbox for providing structural support and standing said soft-shell lunchbox upright;wherein said plurality of collapsible walls having a coating on an inner surface selected from the group consisting of an antimicrobial coating and embedded silver-ion materials;wherein said plurality of collapsible walls having a plurality of accordion style partitions for collapsing said main body when a top edge of said main body is pressed;wherein said sealing lid selectively covers said main body for securing items stored inside said main body;wherein said sealing lid is rectilinear including a peripheral sleeve for securing to said top edge of said main body for forming an airtight and leak-resistant seal with said peripheral sleeve;wherein said peripheral sleeve having a continuous silicone gasket disposed around an inner edge of said peripheral sleeve; andfurther wherein said continuous silicone gasket compresses against said top edge of said main body when said sealing lid is secured to said main body for transitioning said shell insert to a closed state.

15. The lunchbox device of claim 14, wherein said main body having a plurality of collapsible walls extending from edges of a base of said main body.

16. The lunchbox device of claim 15, wherein said collapsible walls store, transport, and retain a temperature of contents within said main body.

17. The lunchbox device of claim 16, said main body having a Bluetooth temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of said main body.

18. The lunchbox device of claim 17, wherein said Bluetooth temperature sensor sends an alert to a paired device when an internal temperature of said main body becomes more than a predetermined threshold temperature.

19. The lunchbox device of claim 18, wherein said sealing lid is selectively removable from said main body.

20. The lunchbox device of claim 19, wherein said plurality of collapsible walls are rigid for maintaining a shape of said main body.

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