Refrigerator and removable refrigerator shelf assembly thereof

Abstract

A refrigerator including a removable refrigerator shelf assembly. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly includes a base portion, and a first side wall positioned opposite a second side wall, where the first side wall and the second side wall are connected to the base portion. The first side wall includes a handle attachment portion, a raised portion positioned below the handle attachment portion, and a recessed portion positioned below the raised portion, where a thickness of the recessed portion is less than the thickness of the raised portion. A refrigerator shelf support is positioned at least partially adjacent to the recessed portion and underneath the raised portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is mounted thereon. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly further includes a handle assembly rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion, where the handle assembly extends from the first side wall to the second side wall.

Description

REFRIGERATOR AND REMOVABLE REFRIGERATOR SHELFASSEMBLY THEREOFCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 573,419, filed April 2, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of kitchen appliances. Specifically, to refrigerators and attachments thereof. Depending on various factors, such as the layout of a kitchen or the busyness of the kitchen, constantly opening a refrigerator to remove ingredients is a hassle and can be an obstacle to cooking. Furthermore, many forms of cooking are done outdoors, using grills, flattop griddles, fire pits, smokers, pizza ovens, and other outdoor cooking appliances. It is inconvenient to bring refrigerated ingredients from the kitchen all the way outside to cook. Therefore, it would be advantageous to provide a convenient way to easily transfer refrigerated ingredients to an outdoor grill or cooking area for use in preparing food.SUMMARY10003] One embodiment relates to a refrigerator including a removable refrigerator shelf assembly. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly includes a base portion, and a first side wall positioned opposite a second side wall, where the first side wall and the second side wall are connected to the base portion. The first side wall includes a handle attachment portion extending from an uppermost edge of the first side wall toward the base portion, a raised portion positioned below the handle attachment portion, where a thickness of the raised portion is greater than a thickness of the handle attachment portion, and a recessed portion positioned below the raised portion, where a thickness of the recessed portion is less than the thickness of the raised portion. A refrigerator shelf support is positioned at least partially adjacent to the recessed portion and underneath the raised portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is mounted on the refrigerator shelf support. The removablerefrigerator shelf assembly further includes a handle assembly rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion, where the handle assembly extends from the first side wall to the second side wall.

[0004] In some embodiments, the handle assembly and the raised portion form a planar region parallel to the first side wall. In some embodiments, the raised portion includes a ridge extending a length along a bottom of the handle attachment portion. In some embodiments, the handle assembly is positioned to rest on the ridge of the raised portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is in a first position for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly. In some embodiments, the handle assembly is positioned perpendicular to the base portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is in a second position for holding the removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

[0005] In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion includes a first notch configured to lock the handle assembly in the second position. In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion includes a second notch configured to lock the handle assembly in a third position, where the handle assembly is positioned between the first position and the second position when in the third position.

[0006] In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly further includes a third side wall and a fourth side wall, wherein the third side wall and the fourth side wall are connected to the base portion. In some embodiments, the third side wall is positioned opposite to the fourth side wall. In some embodiments, the third side wall and the fourth side wall extend from the first side wall to the second side wall.

[0007] In some embodiments, the refrigerator includes the refrigerator shelf support including a base configured to support the removable refrigerator shelf assembly when mounted thereon, a raised edge around a perimeter of the base configured to at least partially retain the removable refrigerator shelf assembly, and a mounting portion including a cutout for connecting the refrigerator shelf support to an interior surface of the refrigerator. In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support is positioned on a refrigerator door assembly. In some embodiments, the mounting portion of the refrigerator shelf support is positioned at least partially adjacent to the recessed portion and underneath the raised portion of theremovable refrigerator shelf assembly when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is positioned on the base of the refrigerator shelf support.

[0008] Another embodiment relates to a removable refrigerator shelf assembly. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly includes a base portion, and a first side wall positioned opposite a second side wall, where the first side wall and the second side wall are connected to the base portion. The first side wall includes a handle attachment portion extending from an uppermost edge of the first side wall toward the base portion, a raised portion positioned below the handle attachment portion, where a thickness of the raised portion is greater than a thickness of the handle attachment portion, and a recessed portion positioned below the raised portion, where a thickness of the recessed portion is less than the thickness of the raised portion. A shelf support is positioned at least partially adjacent to the recessed portion and underneath the raised portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is mounted on the refrigerator shelf support. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly further includes a handle assembly rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion, where the handle assembly extends from the first side wall to the second side wall.

[0009] In some embodiments, the raised portion includes a ridge extending a length along a bottom of the handle attachment portion. In some embodiments, the handle assembly is positioned to rest on the ridge of the raised portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is in a first position for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly. In some embodiments, the handle portion is positioned perpendicular to the base portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is in a second position for holding the removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

[0010] In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion includes a first notch configured to lock the handle assembly in the second position. In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion includes a second notch configured to lock the handle assembly in a third position, where the handle assembly is positioned between the first position and the second position when in the third position. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly further includes a third side wall and a fourth side wall, where the third side wall and the fourth side wall are connected to the base portion. In some embodiments, the thirdside wall is positioned parallel to the fourth side wall, and the third side wall and the fourth side wall extend from the first side wall to the second side wall.(0011 ] In some embodiments, the handle assembly and the mounting portion form a planar region parallel to the first side wall. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly further includes a second handle assembly rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS[00121 FIG. l is a perspective view of one embodiment of a refrigerator including a removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

[0014] FIGS. 3a-3c are perspective views of another embodiment of a removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

[0016] FIGS. 5a-5c are perspective views of another embodiment of a removable refrigerator shelf assembly.10017 [ FIGS. 6a-6b are perspective views of the removable refrigerator assembly in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a front view of a removable refrigerator shelf assembly in accordance with another embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly including a handle assembly in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a refrigerator including a removable refrigerator shelf assembly and a refrigerator shelf support in accordance with an example embodiment.[00211 FIGS. lOa-b are detailed views of a refrigerator including a refrigerator shelf support in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 1 la is a perspective view of one embodiment of a refrigerator including a removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

[0023] FIG. 1 lb is a section view of a refrigerator including a removable refrigerator shelf assembly in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 11c is an exploded view of a refrigerator including multiple refrigerator shelf supports for mounting a removable refrigerator shelf assembly thereon, in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a removable refrigerator shelf assembly mounted on a refrigerator shelf support, in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a refrigerator shelf support in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 14 is a side view of a refrigerator shelf support in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

[0029] FIGS. 16a-b are perspective views of another embodiment of a removable refrigerator shelf assembly.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0031] In an embodiment of a refrigerator, the refrigerator includes a removable refrigerator shelf assembly. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly includes a base portion, and a first side wall positioned opposite a second side wall, where the first side wall and the second side wall are connected to the base portion. The first side wall includes a handle attachment portion extending from an uppermost edge of the first side wall toward the base portion, a raised portion positioned below the handle attachment portion, where a thickness of the raised portion is greater than a thickness of the handle attachment portion, and a recessed portion positioned below the raised portion, where a thickness of the recessed portion is less than the thickness of the raised portion. A refrigerator shelf support is positioned at least partially adjacent to the recessed portion and underneath the raised portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is mounted on the refrigerator shelf support. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly further includes a handle assembly rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion, where the handle assembly extends from the first side wall to the second side wall.

[0032] The removable refrigerator shelf assembly is configured for an individual to store perishable foodstuffs in the refrigerator and later transfer the foodstuffs to a second location (e.g., a grill, serving station, buffet line) by removing the removable refrigerator shelf assembly from the refrigerator and carrying the assembly to said second location. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly is configured to be stored in the refrigerator, for example, by the mounting portion interfacing with the refrigerator shelf support. Further, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is easily removable from the refrigerator and configured to be carried via the handle assembly of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly to the second location. For example, condiments (e.g., ketchup, mustard, etc.) are perishable, and therefore stored in a refrigerator, and often transferred from the refrigerator to another location, such as an outdoor grilling area and / or serving station. Condiments may be stored in the removable refrigerator shelf assembly and later easily transferred to the outdoor grilling area by removing the shelf assembly from the refrigerator and carrying the shelf assembly, via the handle assembly, to the outdoor grilling area.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, an embodiment of a refrigerator 10 is shown. The refrigerator 10 includes a removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the refrigerator10 may include multiple shelf assemblies 20. In some embodiments, the refrigerator 10 further includes a refrigerator door assembly 12. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is configured to be mounted in a refrigerator door assembly 12.

[0034] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, an embodiment of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is depicted. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes a base portion 21, a first side wall 22, a second side wall 23, and a handle assembly 24. The first side wall 22 includes a handle attachment portion 25 and a mounting portion 26. The first side wall 22 is positioned opposite the second side wall 23. The first side wall 22 and the second side wall 23 are connected to the base portion 21. The first side wall 22 further includes the handle attachment portion 25 extending from an uppermost edge 31 of the first side wall 22 toward the base portion 21. The first side wall 22 further includes the mounting portion 26, which is configured to interface with a refrigerator shelf support 11. The mounting portion 26 extends from a bottom of the handle attachment portion 32 to the base portion 21. The mounting portion 26 also extends outward from the handle attachment portion 25. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 further includes the handle assembly 24 rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion 25. The handle assembly 24 extends from the first side wall 22 to the second side wall 23.

[0035] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 10 is configured for a residential kitchen. In some embodiments, the refrigerator 10 includes a refrigerator door assembly 12. The refrigerator 10 may be a single-door refrigerator. In some embodiments, the refrigerator 10 includes multiple refrigerator door assemblies (e.g., double-door refrigerator). In some embodiments, the refrigerator 10 may include a freezer. The freezer may be a lower-door freezer. In other words, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be included in refrigerators of different sizes, models, styles, and / or configuration.

[0036] With reference to FIGS. 2 through 3c, the depicted embodiments show the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes a base portion 21. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes a first side wall 22 positioned opposite a second side wall 23. The first side wall 22 and the second side wall 23 are connected to the base portion 21. In some embodiments, the first side wall 22 includes a handle attachment portion 25 extending fromthe uppermost edge 31 of the first side wall 22 toward the base portion. In some embodiments, the first side wall 22 further includes a mounting portion 26 configured to interface with a shelf support. The mounting portion 26 extends from a bottom of the handle attachment portion 32 to the base portion 21. The mounting portion 26 also extends outward from the handle attachment portion 25. The handle attachment portion 25 extends between the uppermost edge 31 of the first side wall 22 and the mounting portion 26. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 further includes a handle assembly 24 rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion 25. The handle assembly 24 extends from the first side wall 22 to the second side wall 23.

[0037] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 through 3c, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes the base portion 21. In some embodiments, the base portion 21 is a flat surface. The base portion 21 may include a thickness that is configured to support objects (e.g., condiments, foodstuffs) when said objects are positioned on the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the base portion 21 is rectangular. In some embodiments, the base portion 21 may have any of various shapes (e.g., trapezoidal, oval shaped). In some embodiments, the base portion 21 is dimensioned to fit the refrigerator 10. The base portion 21 may be dimensioned 21 to fit the refrigerator door assembly 12. For example, the base portion 21 may be dimensioned to fit a width across the refrigerator door assembly 12. For example, the base portion 21 may have a length of the base portion corresponding to the width across the refrigerator door assembly 12. In some embodiments, the base portion 21 may also be dimensioned to fit a depth into the refrigerator door assembly 12 while dimensioned so the refrigerator 10 may be closed (e.g., shutting the door assembly of the refrigerator).

[0038] With reference to FIGS. 2 through 3c, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes a first side wall 22 positioned opposite a second side wall 23. The first side wall 22 and the second side wall 23 are connected to the base portion 21. In some embodiments, the first side wall 22 is positioned on a first end of the base portion 33. The second side wall 23 is positioned at a second end of the base portion 34. In some embodiments, the first side wall 22 is positioned parallel to the second side wall 23. In some embodiments, the first side wall 22 is not positioned parallel to the second side wall 23 (e.g., angled from each other).

[0039] With continued reference to FIGS. 2 through 3c, the first side wall 22 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes the mounting portion 26 configured to interface with the shelf support. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 is configured to interface with a refrigerator shelf support 11 (see FIG. 9). In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 is positioned on a refrigerator door assembly 12. In other words, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be positioned as a refrigerator door shelf assembly, with the mounting portion 26 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 mounted on the refrigerator shelf support 11.

[0040] In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 extends from a bottom 32 of the handle attachment portion 25 to the base portion 21. In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 extend from the uppermost edge 31 of the first side wall 22 toward the base portion 21. The handle attachment portion 25 extends between the uppermost edge 31 of the first side wall 22 and the mounting portion 26. In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 is configured for the handle assembly 24 to be rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion 25.[00411 In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 26 is an upper portion of the first side wall 22, while the mounting portion 26 is a lower portion of the first side wall 22. For example, the upper portion of the first side wall 22 may be configured for attachment of the handle assembly 24 and is therefore the handle attachment portion 25 of the first side wall 22. The lower portion of the first side wall 22 may be configured for mounting the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 on the shelf support and is therefore the mounting portion 26 of the first side wall 22.

[0042] In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 may be a side portion of the first side wall 22. For example, the mounting portion 26 may not be configured at the lower portion of the first side wall 22, and instead positioned as the side portion of the first side wall 22 for connecting to the refrigerator shelf support 11 (e.g., the removable refrigerator shelf assembly may connect to the refrigerator shelf support by latching on to a wall of the refrigerator). In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 may be the bottom portion of the first side wall 22. The handle attachment portion 25 may be the side potion of the first side wall22. In other words, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is configured for the first side wall 22 to attach to the handle assembly 24 and to mount on the shelf support.(0043] In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 is larger than the handle attachment portion 25. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 is smaller than the handle attachment portion 25. In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 and the mounting portion 26 are evenly proportioned on the first side wall 22. In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 and the mounting portion 26 may overlap. In other words, the portion of the first side wall 22 configured for mounting the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 on the refrigerator shelf support 11 is referred to as the mounting portion 26, while the portion of the first side wall 22 configured for attachment of the handle assembly 24 is referred to as the handle attachment portion 25.

[0044] In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 is a first surface 35 of the first side wall 22 and the mounting portion 26 is a second surface 36 of the first side wall 22. For example, the second surface 36 may be raised outward from the first surface 35 of the first side wall 22. In this way, space is created for the handle assembly 24 when it is positioned in a down or retracted location. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 is generally U-shaped. The U-shape may define an inset portion 27 of the mounting portion 26 for connecting to the refrigerator shelf support 11. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 is shaped to correspond to the refrigerator shelf support 11. In other words, the mounting portion 26 is shaped to correspond to the shape of the refrigerator shelf support 11 to facilitate mounting of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 onto the refrigerator shelf support 11.

[0045] In some embodiments, an opening 130 may be defined in the handle attachment portion 25 for connecting to the handle assembly 24 (see FIG. 8). In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 is connected to the handle assembly 24 by an intermediate member. In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 is generally curved. In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 has a height (e.g., a distance between a top edge surface of the handle attachment portion 25 and a lowest edge portion of the handle attachment portion) that is larger than a width of the handle assembly 24. In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 is angled. For example, the handleattachment portion 25 may be angled from a plane perpendicular 263 to the base portion 21 (see FIG. 6a). The handle attachment portion 25 may be symmetrical. In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 may be V-shaped. In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 is shaped to fit with the mounting portion 26. For example, the handle attachment portion 25 may be shaped to fit with an angle of a ridge 261 of the mounting portion 26 (see FIG. 3a). In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 and / or the mounting portion 26 may include chamfered and / or rounded edges (e.g., the uppermost edge 32 of the first side 22 wall may be rounded).

[0046] In some embodiments, mounting portion 26 extends outward from the handle attachment portion 25. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 may extend as far as the handle attachment portion 25 is thick. For example, a thickness of the mounting portion 26 may be equal to a thickness of the handle attachment portion 25. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 extends outward from the handle attachment portion 25, so the thickness of the mounting portion 26 is greater than the thickness of the handle attachment portion 25. The mounting portion 26 may extend outward from the handle attachment portion25, so the thickness of the mounting portion 26 is less than the thickness of the handle attachment portion 25. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 extends outward a distance from the handle attachment portion 25 equal to a thickness of the handle assembly 24, so the handle assembly 24 and the mounting portion 26 form a planar surface and / or region parallel to the first side wall 22.

[0047] In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 includes the inset portion 27. The inset portion 27 is configured for mounting the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 on the shelf support. Ins some embodiments, the inset portion 27 is configured for mounting the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 on the refrigerator shelf support 11. For example, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be mounted onto the refrigerator shelf support 11 using the inset portion 27 to connect to said refrigerator shelf support 11. In some embodiments, the inset portion 27 extends from the base portion 21 into the mounting portion26. In some embodiments, the inset portion 27 may extend into the mounting portion 26 from a bottom of the mounting portion 26. The inset portion 27 may extend into the mounting portion a distance into the mounting portion 26. In some embodiments, the inset portion 27extends the distance into the mounting portion 26 where the distance into the mounting portion 26 is less than a height of the mounting portion 26 (see FIG. 6a). In some embodiments, the inset portion 27 extends the distance into the mounting portion 26 where the distance into the mounting portion 26 is greater than the height of the mounting portion 26. In some embodiments, the inset portion 27 extends the distance into the mounting portion 26 where the distance into the mounting portion 26 is equal to the height of the mounting portion 26. In some embodiments, the inset portion 27 includes an upper edge 273 of the inset portion 27 (see. FIG. 6a). The upper edge 273 of the inset portion 27 may be positioned the distance into the mounting portion 26 away from the base portion 21.

[0048] In some embodiments, the inset portion 27 is shaped to generally correspond to the mounting portion 26. In some embodiments, the inset portion 27 is generally rectangular. For example, the inset portion 27 may be shaped as a rectangle with rounded comers. In some embodiments, the inset portion 27 may be generally U-shaped. The inset portion 27 and the handle attachment portion 25 may be a planar surface, where the mounting portion 26 is otherwise raised relative to the handle attachment portion 24.

[0049] With reference to FIGS. 6a-6b, in some embodiments, the inset portion 27 includes a height 274 of the inset portion 27, a width 275 of the inset portion 27, and a depth 276 of the inset portion 27. In some embodiments, the height 274 of the inset portion 24 is less than the width 275 of the inset portion 27. The height 274 of the inset portion 27 may be greater than the width 275 of the inset portion 27. The height 274 of the inset portion 27 may be equal to the width 275 of the inset portion 27. In some embodiments, the depth 276 of the inset portion 27 is less than the height 274 of the inset portion 27 and / or the width 275 of the inset portion 27. The depth 276 of the inset portion 27 may be greater than the height 274 of the inset portion 27 and / or the width 275 of the inset portion 27. The depth 276 of the inset portion 27 may be equal to the height 274 of the inset portion 27 and / or the width 275 of the inset portion 27. In some embodiments, the height 274 of the inset portion 27, the width 275 of the inset portion 27, and / or the depth 276 of the inset portion 27 are dimensioned so the inset portion 27 may couple to the refrigerator shelf support 11 (see FIG. 9).

[0050] With reference to FIGS 3a-3c, and 6a-6b, in some embodiments, mounting portion 26 includes a ridge 261 extending a length 262 along the bottom 32 of the handle attachmentportion 25. In some embodiments, the ridge 261 is angled from the plane perpendicular 263 to the base portion 21. The ridge 261 may be angled at 1, 2, 3, or 4 or more degrees from the plane perpendicular 263 to the base portion 21. The ridge 261 may be angled at 10, 20, 30, or 40 or more degrees from the plane perpendicular 263 to the base portion 21. In some embodiments, the ridge 261 extending a length 262 along the bottom 32 of the handle attachment portion 25 may include the length 262 along the bottom 32 of the handle attachment portion 25 being a full length of the handle attachment portion 25. In some embodiments, the length 262 along the bottom 32 of the handle attachment portion 25 may be a partial length of the handle attachment portion 25. For example, the length 262 may be roughly half the length of the handle attachment portion 25. The length 262 may be a different length of the handle attachment portion 25. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 includes a second ridge 264 extending a second length 265 along the bottom 32 of the handle attachment portion 25. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 is symmetrical (e.g., the first ridge 261 and the second ridge 264 are mirrored across the plane perpendicular 263 to the base portion 21).

[0051] With reference to FIG. 7, the side walls (e.g., the first side wall 22, the second side wall 23) may include additional portions. For example, the first side wall 22 may include a lower portion 127 positioned below the mounting portion 26 that extends from a first side to a second side of the shelf assembly 20 (including at least in some embodiments across an entire distance between the first side and the second side of the shelf assembly 20). The lower portion 127 and the handle attachment portion 25 may be a planar surface, where the mounting portion 26 is at least partially raised relative to the lower portion 127. The lower portion 127 may include one or more feet 128 configured for supporting the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 when rested on a surface (e.g., by the outdoor cooking area, in the refrigerator 10). For example, the feet 128 may extend to form a planar region with the base portion 21 and / or extend below the base portion 28. The first side wall 22 including additional portions (e.g., the lower portion 127) may be similarly formed as described herein.

[0052] With reference to FIGS. 2 through 3c, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes the handle assembly 24 rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion 25. The handle assembly 24 extends from the first side wall 22 to the second side wall 23. In someembodiments, the handle assembly 24 is configured to rotate from a direction facing a third side wall 28 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 to a direction facing a fourth side wall 29 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. The handle assembly 24 may be configured to rotate to either side of the plane perpendicular 263 to the base portion 21 (see FIG. 6a).

[0053] In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion 25 of the first side wall 22 using an intermediate member. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion 25 via a snap fit. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion 25 using a form fit. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion 25 using a fastener. In some embodiments, other techniques may be used to rotatably couple the handle assembly 24 to the handle attachment portion 25 of the first side wall 22.(0054] In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is assembled together with the base portion 21, the first side wall 22, and the second side wall 23 to form the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is attached to the handle attachment portion 25 of the first side wall 22. The handle assembly 24 may also be attached to the handle attachment portion 25 of the second side wall 23. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 may be attached to a different portion of the first side wall 22 (e.g. a side portion, a lower portion, an upper portion).

[0055] In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is configured to be carried. For example, the handle assembly 24 is strong enough to support a weight of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 and any objects (e.g., condiments) stored in the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 includes a grip. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 includes a hook portion configured for the hook portion to hang the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 off a holding support. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 includes a loop portion configured for the hook portion to hang the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 off the holding support. For example, the handle assembly 24 may be hung from an outdoor cooking appliance configuredwith the holding support (e.g., a hook and / or loop on the appliance) using the hook portion and / or the loop portion of the handle assembly 24.

[0056] In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes a second handle assembly. The second handle assembly may extend from the first side 22 wall to the second side wall 23. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is configured for a first handle assembly 24 and the second handle assembly to be rotated in opposite directions and meet approximately in the middle (e.g., at the plane perpendicular 263 to the base portion 21) of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 for carrying the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20.

[0057] In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is configured so the handle assembly 24 is positioned to rest on the ridge 261 of the mounting portion 26 when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is in a first position 40. The first position 40 may be for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is positioned on the second ridge 264 of the mounting portion 26. The handle assembly 24 being positioned on the second ridge 264 may be for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. For example, the handle assembly 24 may be configured for 180 degrees or more of rotation, being able to rest on either ridge (e.g., ridge 261 or second ridge 264) of the mounting portion 26 for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20.

[0058] In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 further includes a third side wall 28 and a fourth side wall 29. The third side wall 28 and the fourth side wall 29 are connected to the base portion 21. The third side wall 28 is positioned opposite to the fourth side wall 29. The third side wall 28 and the fourth side wall 29 extend from the first side wall 22 to the second side wall 23. In some embodiments, the third side wall 28 is positioned parallel to the fourth side wall 29. In some embodiments, the third side wall 28 may have a height that is smaller than a height of the first side wall 21. In some embodiments, the third side wall 28 and / or the fourth side wall 29 may be transparent. For example, the third side wall 28 may be transparent to assist in viewing the objects (e.g., condiments) stored within the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20.

[0059] With reference to FIGS. 3a-3c, the depicted embodiments show perspective views of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In the depicted embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is in the first position 40. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 being in the first position 40 may be for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be stored in the refrigerator 10. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is configured so the handle assembly 24 and the mounting portion 26 form a planar region parallel to the first side wall 22. In other words, the handle assembly 24 and the mounting portion 26 may be flush fit. The handle assembly 24 may include a thickness of the handle assembly 24 equal to the thickness of the mounting portion 26. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 may include the thickness of the handle assembly 24 greater and / or less than the thickness of the mounting portion 26.

[0060] With reference to FIGS. 2 through 3c, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be symmetrical. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may include the second side wall 23 being identical to the first side wall 22. In other words, the above embodiments describing the configuration of the first side wall 22 may also describe the configuration of the second side wall 23 when the first and second side walls are identical. For example, a handle attachment portion 25 of the second side wall 23 and / or a mounting portion 26 of the second side wall 23 may be configured identically to the handle attachment portion 25 and / or the mounting portion 26 of the first side wall 22, based on the disclosure herein. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may include the second side wall 23 where the second side wall 23 is configured differently than the first side wall 22.

[0061] With reference to FIGS. 4 through 5c, the depicted embodiments show the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes the handle assembly 24 positioned perpendicular to the base portion 21 when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is in a second position 41. The second position 41 may be for holding the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 may be rotated from the first position 40 to the second position 41 for holding and / or carrying the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. For example, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be in the first position 40 whilestored inside the refrigerator 10, and then the handle assembly 24 may be rotated into the second position 41 once the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is removed from the refrigerator 10 for carrying objects (e.g., condiments) to an outdoor cooking area.

[0062] With reference to FIG. 8, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes a first notch 131 configured to lock the handle assembly 24 in a set position (e.g., the second position 41). The opening 130 defined in the handle attachment portion 24 of the first side wall 22 for attaching the handle assembly 24 includes the first notch 131 positioned at a top of the opening 130 (e.g., aligned with the plane perpendicular 263 to the base portion 21 (see FIG. 6a)) to lock the handle assembly 24 in the second position 41.

[0063] The handle assembly 24 may include a handle 132, a protrusion 133 positioned on the handle, and a pin 134. The pin 134 may connect with the protrusion 133 to connect the handle assembly 24 to the first side wall 22. For example, the pin 134 may connect with the protrusion 133 through the opening 130. The protrusion 133 on the handle 132 is configured to rotate within the opening 130 when the handle assembly 24 is rotated. As depicted in FIG. 8, the opening 130 may include a generally circular shape aside from the first notch 131 to facilitate rotation of the protrusion 133 within the opening 130 and selective engagement of the protrusion 133 with the first notch 131. When the handle assembly 24 is rotated to the second position 41, the handle assembly 24 may be moved upwards, moving the protrusion 133 into the first notch 131, locking the handle assembly 24 into the second position 41. In other words, gravitational force is used to secure the handle assembly 24 within the first notch 131 when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is being carried via the handle assembly 24. Once the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is set down, the handle assembly 24 may be released from the first notch 131, allowing the handle assembly 24 to rotate (e.g., the protrusion 133 moves out of the first notch 131 via gravitational force).

[0064] In some embodiments, the first notch 131 may be differently configured (e.g., a lock and key mechanism, a latch, and / or a buttonhole-press configuration). The first notch 131 may also be configured to release the handle assembly 24 from the second position 41 (e.g., by releasing the locking mechanism). In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may include 1, 2, 3, or 4 or more notches. The removable refrigerator shelfassembly 20 may be configured for the one or more notches to lock the handle assembly 24 into place at multiple positions.(0065] In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes a second notch configured to lock the handle assembly 24 in a third position. The handle attachment portion 24 may include the second notch. For example, the second notch may also be a slit, a lock and key mechanism, a latch, and / or a buttonhole-press configuration. The second notch may be similarly configured to the first notch 131 (see FIG. 8). In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is positioned between the first position 40 and the second position 41 when in the third position. For example, the second notch may lock the handle assembly 24 in position parallel to the base portion 21 when in the third position. The third position may also be for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the third position is for locking the handle assembly 24 while the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is in the outdoor cooking area. For example, it may be convenient for the handle assembly 24 to be in the third position when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is in the outdoor cooking area for accessing condiments and / or preparing to take the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 back inside for storage in the refrigerator 10.

[0066] With reference to FIGS. 2 through 6b, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be made from a plastic material. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be made from metal. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be made from a combination of materials (e.g., plastic, metal, acrylic, glass, etc.). The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be made from a material (or materials) that is stain resistant. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be made from a material that is configured to be cold temperature resistant (e.g., configured for prolonged use in the refrigerator 10). The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be made from a material that is durable. In some embodiments, the components of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 (e.g., the base portion, the first side wall, the second side wall, the handle assembly) may all be made from the same material. In some embodiments, the components of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be made from different materials. In some embodiments, the components of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be painted and / or coated (e.g., coated to be stain resistant).

[0067] In some embodiments, the base portion 21, the first side wall 22, and the second side wall 23 are formed as a singular piece (e.g., via 3D printing, molding). Forming the base portion 21, the first side wall 22, and the second side wall 23 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 as a singular piece may be done by injection molding, 3D printing, and / or other known manufacturing methods. In some embodiments, the base portion 21, the first side wall 22, the second side wall 23, the third side wall 28, and the fourth side wall 29 are formed as a singular piece.

[0068] In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is formed as a separate piece. The handle assembly 24 is then assembled together with the base portion 21, the first side wall 22, and the second side wall 23 to form the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is assembled together with the base portion 21, the first side wall 22, the second side wall 23, the third side wall 28, and the fourth side wall 29 to form the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is attached to the handle attachment portion 25 of the first side wall 22. The handle assembly 24 may also be attached to the handle attachment portion 25 of the second side wall 23. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is made from the same material as the other components (e.g., the base portion 21, the first side wall 22) of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is made from a different material as the other components (e.g., the base portion 21, the first side wall 22) of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. The handle assembly 24 may be coated while the other components of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is not coated. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is manufactured using the same technique (e.g., 3D printing, molding) used to manufacture the other components of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20.

[0069] In some embodiments, the first side wall 22 is formed as a singular piece. For example, the first side wall 22 may be formed where the mounting portion 26 and the handle attachment portions 25 are defined areas on the first side wall 22. In other words, the handle attachment portion 25 and the mounting portion 26 are formed into the first side wall 22 when the first side wall 22 is formed as a singular piece. Forming the first side wall 22 as asingular piece may also be done by injection molding, 3D printing, and / or other known manufacturing methods.(0070] In some embodiments, the handle attachment portion 25 and the mounting portion 26 are formed as separate pieces. In some embodiments, the first side wall 22 may be assembled together. For example, the mounting portion 26 may be assembled onto the first side wall 22 (e.g., using adhesives, using mating portions, using fasteners), which also defines the handle attachment portion 25 on the first side wall 22.

[0071] In some embodiments, the base portion 21, the first side wall 22, the second side wall 23, and the handle assembly 24 are all formed as separate pieces. In some embodiments, the first side wall 21, the second side wall 23, and the handle assembly 24 are assembled together. In some embodiments, the third side wall 28 and the fourth side wall 29 are formed as separate pieces. The third side wall 28 and the fourth side wall 29 are assembled together with the other components of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is assembled together using adhesives. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is assembled using mating portions of individual pieces of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 (e.g., the first side wall, the base portion). In other words, individual pieces of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be configured to assemble together in a puzzle-like fashion. Adhesives may also be used to assemble the removable refrigerator shelf assembly when the components of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 are assembled together using mating portions. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is assembled using fasteners (e.g., screws, nails, bolts). For example, the base portion 21, the first side wall 22, and the second side wall 23 may be formed as separate pieces, where said components are fastened together using fasteners to form the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. Adhesives may also be used when assembling the removable refrigerator shelf 20 assembly together using fasteners.

[0072] With reference to FIG. 9, the depicted embodiments show the refrigerator 10 including the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 and the refrigerator shelf support 11. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is positioned on a refrigerator door assembly 12. In some embodiments, the refrigerator 10 includes arefrigerator shelf support 11. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is mounted on the refrigerator shelf support 11. The mounting portion 26 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may mount the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 on the refrigerator shelf support 11. The inset portion 27 of the mounting portion 26 may couple with the refrigerator shelf support 11 to mount the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 in the refrigerator 10. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is configured to store foodstuffs inside the refrigerator 10. For example, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may store condiments. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be removed from the refrigerator 10 and carried, via the handle assembly 24, to an outdoor cooking area to transport condiments to said outdoor cooking area.

[0073] With reference to FIGS. 9 and lOa-b, in some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be mounted in the refrigerator 10 in multiple directions. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is mounted on the refrigerator shelf support 11 in a first mounting direction. For example, the mounting portion 26 of the first side wall 22 may connect to the refrigerator shelf support 11. In the first mounting direction, the fourth side wall 29, and / or an outer surface thereof, may be facing outward (e.g., facing a viewer) when the refrigerator 10 is open or facing into the refrigerator 10 (e.g., facing toward a refrigerator wall) when the refrigerator 10 is closed. In the first mounting direction, the fourth side wall 29 may be facing into the refrigerator door assembly 12. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is mounted on the refrigerator shelf support 11 in a second mounting direction. For example, the mounting portion 26 of the second side wall 23 may connect to the refrigerator shelf support 11. In the second mounting direction, the third side wall 28, and / or an outer surface thereof, may be facing outward (e.g., facing a viewer) when the refrigerator 10 is open or facing into the refrigerator 10 (e.g., facing toward a refrigerator wall) when the refrigerator 10 is closed. In the second mounting direction, the third side wall 28 may be facing into the refrigerator door assembly 12. In other words, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be mounted on the refrigerator shelf support 11 using the mounting portion 26 of the first side wall 22 or the second side wall 23. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be symmetrical.

[0074] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 10 may include more than one refrigerator shelf support. The refrigerator 10 may include one, two, three, or four or more refrigerator shelf supports. In some embodiments, the refrigerator 10 includes a second refrigerator shelf support 110. The refrigerator shelf support 11 (e.g., a first refrigerator shelf support 109) may be positioned opposite the second refrigerator shelf support 110. In some embodiments, the first refrigerator shelf support 109 and the second refrigerator shelf support 110 make up a first set of refrigerator shelf supports 111, configured for mounting the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 onto the first set of refrigerator shelf supports 111. In some embodiments, the first set of refrigerator shelf supports I l l is configured so the first refrigerator shelf support 109 couples with the first side wall 22 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 and the second refrigerator shelf support 110 couples with the second side wall 23 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the first refrigerator shelf support 109 may couple with the second side wall 23 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 and the second refrigerator shelf support 110 may couple with the first side wall 22 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In other words, the first refrigerator shelf support 109 and the second refrigerator shelf support 110 are identical to each other so the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be mounted on the first set of refrigerator shelf supports 111 in multiple directions.

[0075] In some embodiments, the refrigerator 10 includes a second removable refrigerator shelf assembly 120. The refrigerator 10 may include one, two, three, or four or more removable refrigerator shelf assemblies. In some embodiments, the second removable refrigerator shelf assembly 120 is mounted on a second set of refrigerator shelf supports (e.g. a third refrigerator shelf support and a fourth refrigerator shelf support). In some embodiments, the second removable refrigerator shelf assembly 120 may be identical to the first removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20.

[0076] With reference to FIGS. lOa-b, the depicted embodiments show section views of the refrigerator 10 including a refrigerator shelf support 11. The refrigerator shelf support 11 is configured for connecting to the mounting portion 26 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. For example, the refrigerator shelf support 11 is configured to connect to the inset portion 27 of the mounting portion 26 to mount the removable refrigerator shelfassembly 20 in the refrigerator 10. In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 is positioned on the refrigerator door assembly 12. The refrigerator shelf support 11 may be formed on the refrigerator door assembly 12. In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 is a protrusion. In other words, the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be formed into the refrigerator 10 (e.g., formed into the refrigerator door assembly 12 when the refrigerator door assembly 12 is manufactured). In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 is assembled into the refrigerator 10. The refrigerator shelf support 11 may be assembled into the refrigerator 10 using fasteners, adhesives, and / or other method of assembling components together.

[0077] In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 is curved. In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 is U-shaped. In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 may have a lengthened portion and a curved portion. The refrigerator shelf support 11 may be generally rectangular with a rounded end (e.g., a rounded top). The refrigerator shelf support 11 may have rounded edges. In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be shaped for mounting of a removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20.

[0078] In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 is configured for mounting of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 on the refrigerator shelf support 11. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 connects to the refrigerator shelf support 11 via the mounting portion 26 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. The inset portion 27 of the mounting portion 26 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 connects to the refrigerator shelf support 11. In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 corresponds in shape to the mounting portion 26 of the removable refrigerator shelf support. The refrigerator shelf support 11 may correspond in shape to the inset portion 27 of the mounting portion 26 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20.

[0079] In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 may have a height 284 of the refrigerator shelf support 11, a thickness 286 of the refrigerator shelf support, and / or a length 285 of the refrigerator shelf support 11. The height 284, thickness 286, and / or length 285 of the refrigerator shelf support 11 may correspond to a height 274 of the inset portion 27, a width 275 of the inset portion 27, and / or a depth 276 of the inset portion 27 (see FIGS. 6a-b).For example, the height 284 of the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be equal to the height 274 of the inset portion 27. For another example, the length 285 of the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be equal to the width 275 of the inset portion 27. For yet another example, the thickness 286 of the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be equal to the depth 276 of the inset portion 27. In some embodiments, the height 284 of the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be less than the height 274 of the inset portion. In some embodiments, the height 284 of the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be greater than the height 274 of the inset portion 27. In some embodiments, the width 275 of the inset portion 27 may be less than the length 285 of the refrigerator shelf support 11. In some embodiments, the width 275 of the inset portion 27 may be greater than the length 285 of the refrigerator shelf support 11. In some embodiments, the depth 276 of the inset portion 27 may be less than the thickness 286 of the refrigerator shelf support 11. In some embodiments, the depth 276 of the inset portion 27 may be greater than the thickness 286 of the refrigerator shelf support 11. In other words, the dimensions of the refrigerator shelf support 11 may generally correspond to the dimensions of the inset portion 27 of the mounting portion 26 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 for mounting of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 on the refrigerator shelf support 11.

[0080] In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 connects with the inset portion 27 of the mounting portion 26 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 mounts on the refrigerator shelf support 11 via a vertical force. For example, the refrigerator shelf support 11 exerts the vertical force into the inset portion 27 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. The vertical force may be exerted into the upper edge 273 of the inset portion 27.

[0081] In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 may partially connect with the inset portion 27. When the refrigerator shelf support 11 partially connects to the inset portion 27, one or more of the dimensions (e.g., height 284, length 285, thickness 286) of the refrigerator shelf support 11 is different than the corresponding dimension (e.g., height 274, width 275, depth 276) of the inset portion 27. In other words, one or more of the dimensions (i.e., height 284, length 285, thickness 286) of the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be less than one of the corresponding dimensions (i.e., height 274, width 275, and depth 276) of the inset portion 27 of the mounting portion 26 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20so the inset portion 27 is only partially connected to the refrigerator shelf support 11. For example, the length 285 of the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be less than the width 275 of the inset portion 27 when the inset portion 27 is partially connected to the refrigerator shelf support 11. The refrigerator shelf support 11 may partially connect to the upper edge 273 of the inset portion 27 along a partial length of the upper edge 273 of the inset portion 27. The partial length along the upper edge 273 of the inset portion 27 is less than the width 275 of the inset portion 27.

[0082] In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 partially connects to the inset portion 27 with the inset portion 27 resting on the refrigerator shelf support 11, stably mounting the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 in the refrigerator 10 but allowing the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 to pivot. Allowing the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 to pivot may increase accessibility to objects (e.g., condiments) contained in the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is also mounted on the refrigerator shelf support 11 via a horizontal force. For example, when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is mounted on the refrigerator door assembly 12, the refrigerator door assembly 12 may swing when opened and / or close, so the refrigerator shelf support 11 exerts the horizontal force into the inset portion 27 to keep the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 stably mounted on the refrigerator shelf support 11 (e.g., so the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 does not fall out of the refrigerator 10).

[0083] In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 partially coupling to the inset portion 27 configures the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 to be removed and / or inserted into the refrigerator 10 by sliding the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 along an edge (e.g., a side edge) of the inset portion 27. For example, the edge of the inset portion 27 may be angled, allowing the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 to slide off the refrigerator shelf support 11. In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 is shaped as a wedge and / or inclined plane. For example, the refrigerator shelf support 11 shaped as the wedge and / or inclined plane configures the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 to be slid into the refrigerator 10 and mounted on the refrigerator shelf support 11, securing the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 stably in the refrigerator 11 byrequiring the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 to be lifted vertically when removing said shelf assembly off the refrigerator shelf support 11.

[0084] In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 couples to the refrigerator shelf support 11 via a mesh fit. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 couples to the refrigerator 10 via a friction fit with the refrigerator 10. The friction fit may be between the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 and the refrigerator door assembly 12. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may couple to the refrigerator shelf support 11 via a friction fit.

[0085] In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be a rail and / or a track (e.g., drawer style mounting). The refrigerator shelf support 11 being the rail and / or the track may be positioned on the refrigerator door assembly 12. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 26 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may include a rail and / or track, configured to slide along the rail and / or track of the refrigerator shelf support 11. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may have the rail and / or track positioned on the mounting portion 26. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 having the rail and / or track for sliding the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 onto the refrigerator shelf support 11 may replace the inset portion 27. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may include the rail and / or track positioned on the base portion 21 (e.g., underneath and / or on the bottom thereof) for mounting within the refrigerator 10.

[0086] In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 rests on the flat surface of the refrigerator shelf support 11. In some embodiments, the flat surface may be a refrigerator shelf. In some embodiments, the flat surface may be configured with a first side of the flat surface for the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 to rest. A second side of the flat surface may include mounts for refrigerator drawers and / or other refrigerator shelving.

[0087] In some embodiments, the refrigerator may include a third refrigerator shelf support 211. The third refrigerator shelf support 211 may include the flat surface configured for the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 to rest on the flat surface when mounted in the refrigerator 10. The base portion 21 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 rests onthe flat surface of the third refrigerator shelf support 211. In some embodiments, the first refrigerator shelf support 109, the second refrigerator shelf support 110, and the third refrigerator shelf support 211 form a refrigerator shelf support assembly. The first refrigerator shelf support 109, the second refrigerator shelf support 110, and the third refrigerator shelf support 211 may be connected. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is mounted on the refrigerator shelf support assembly. For example, the inset portion 27 of the mounting portion 26 of the first side wall 22 is connected to the first refrigerator shelf support 109, the inset portion 27 of the mounting portion 26 of the second side wall 23 is connected to the second refrigerator shelf support 110, and the base portion 21 rests on the flat surface of the third refrigerator shelf support 211. The refrigerator shelf support assembly stably mounts the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 in the refrigerator 10 when the refrigerator shelf support 11 is partially connected to the inset portion 27 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support assembly 20 is positioned on the refrigerator door assembly 12.

[0088] With reference to FIGS I la through 14, the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be separate from the refrigerator 10. For example, the refrigerator shelf support 11 may connect to the refrigerator door assembly 12 to support the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. The refrigerator shelf support 11 includes a base 302. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is positioned on the base 302 (e.g., on a surface thereof) when mounted on (e.g., retained by) the refrigerator shelf support 11. For example, the base 302 may be configured to correspond in size and / or dimension to the base 21 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 for mounting. The refrigerator shelf support 11 may include a raised edge 304 (e.g., a lip) around a perimeter of the base 302 of the refrigerator shelf support 11, where the raised edge 304 is includes a height 334 from the base 302 (e.g., is raised above the base 302). The raised edge 304 may at least partially retain the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 on the base 302 of the refrigerator shelf support 11.]0089] The refrigerator shelf support 11 may include a mounting portion 327 configured to connect to the refrigerator 10 and / or the refrigerator door 12. The mounting portion 327 may extend from the base 302 to a height 333 greater than a height 334 of the raised edge 304. The mounting portion 327 may be positioned on a side of the refrigerator shelf support 11.The mounting portion 327 may include a cutout 328 at least partially into the mounting portion 327, where the cutout 328 is configured to mate with a protrusion of the refrigerator 10 (e.g., on an interior surface thereof) and / or the refrigerator door 12. For example, the cutout 328 of the mounting portion 327 slides over and / or onto the protrusion of the refrigerator door 12 to mount the refrigerator shelf support 11. In some embodiments, the refrigerator shelf support 11 may include multiple mounting portions 327 for mounting the refrigerator shelf support 11 onto the refrigerator 10 and / or the refrigerator door 12. For example, the refrigerator shelf support 11 may include a second mounting portion 337 positioned on a side of the refrigerator shelf support 11 opposite the mounting portion 327. The second mounting portion 337 may be configured similarly to the mounting portion 327 (e.g., including a cutout to mount onto a second protrusion of the refrigerator door 12).

[0090] Referring to FIG. 11c, the refrigerator 10 may include a third refrigerator shelf support 311 (e.g., the refrigerator shelf support depicted in FIG. 13), where the third refrigerator shelf support 311 is mounted onto a first refrigerator shelf support 109 and / or a second refrigerator shelf support 110. For example, the first refrigerator shelf support 109 and / or the second refrigerator shelf support 110 may be protrusions on the refrigerator door assembly 12, as described herein (e.g., as the refrigerator shelf support 11 depicted in FIG. 10a). The refrigerator shelf support 11 may be positioned opposite the second refrigerator shelf support 110 to make up the first set of refrigerator shelf supports 111, where the third refrigerator shelf support 311 is mounted thereon. The mounting portion 327 of the third refrigerator shelf support 311 may be mounted onto the first refrigerator shelf support 109, and the second mounting portion 337 may be mounted onto the second refrigerator shelf support 110. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 327 of the third refrigerator shelf support 311 may be mounted onto the second refrigerator shelf support 110, and the second mounting portion 337 may be mounted onto the first refrigerator shelf support 109. The third refrigerator shelf support 311 is mounted onto the first set of refrigerator shelf supports 111 so the base 302 is substantially parallel (e.g., level) with a horizontal plane and / or a ground surface. In some embodiments, the cutout 328 of the third refrigerator shelf support 311 may be sized to generally correspond to the height 284 of the first refrigerator shelf support 109, the thickness 286 of the first refrigerator shelf support 109, and / or the length 285 of the first refrigerator shelf support 109 as depicted in FIG. 10a, for mounting thereon. In someembodiments, the second mounting portion 337 may include a cutout sized to generally correspond to the dimensions of the second refrigerator shelf support 110, for mounting of the third refrigerator shelf support 311 on the first set of refrigerator shelf supports 111.

[0091] Referring to FIGS 15 through 16b, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may includes a base portion 21, a first side wall 22, a second side wall 23, and a handle assembly 24. The first side wall 22 is positioned opposite the second side wall 23. The first side wall 22 and the second side wall 23 are connected to the base portion 21. The handle assembly 24 may extend from the first side wall 21 to the second side wall 23. The first side wall 22 includes a handle attachment portion 345 configured for the handle assembly 24 to be attached. The handle attachment portion 345 may be an uppermost potion of the first side wall 22 (e.g., positioned at or near a top of the first side wall 22). For example, the handle attachment portion 345 may be similar to the handle attachment portion 25, as described herein.(0092] The first side wall 22 further includes a raised portion 346 positioned adjacent to the handle attachment portion 345. The raised portion 346 may be immediately below the handle attachment portion 345. The raised portion 346 includes a thickness 356 greater than a thickness 355 of the handle attachment portion 345 (e.g., the raised portion 346 is raised compared to the handle attachment portion 345). The raised portion 346 forms a ridge 361 extending a length 362 along a bottom of the handle attachment portion 345 and / or a top of the raised portion 346. The ridge 361 may be configured similarly to the ridge 261, as described herein. For example, the ridge 361 is angled from the plane perpendicular 263 to the base portion 21. In some embodiments, the raised portion 346 forms a second ridge 364 extending a second length 365 along the bottom of the handle attachment portion 345 and / or the top of the raised portion 346. The raised portion 346 may be symmetrical (e.g., a first ridge 361 and the second ridge 364 are mirrored across the plane perpendicular 263 to the base portion 21).

[0093] The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 includes the handle assembly 24 connected to the handle attachment portion 345. The handle assembly 24 and the raised portion 346 form a planar region parallel to the first side wall. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is configured so the handle assembly 24 is positioned to rest on the ridge361 of the raised portion 346 when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is in a first position 40. The first position 40 may be for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 24 is positioned on the second ridge 364 of the raised portion 346 for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. For example, the handle assembly 24 may be configured for 180 degrees or more of rotation, being able to rest on either ridge (e.g., ridge 361 or second ridge 364) for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20.

[0094] The first side wall 22 further includes a recessed portion 347 positioned adjacent to the raised portion 346. The recessed portion 347 may be positioned immediately below the raised portion 346. The recessed portion 347 may be a lowermost portion of the first side wall 22 (e.g., positioned at or near a bottom of the first side wall 22). The thickness 356 of the raised portion 346 is greater than a thickness 357 of the recessed portion 347 (e.g., the raised portion 346 is raised compared to the recessed portion 347. In some embodiments, the thickness 355 of the handle attachment portion 345 is substantially equal to the thickness 357 of the recessed portion 347.

[0095] In some embodiments, the recessed portion 347 includes a height 358 greater than a height 333 of the mounting portion 327 of the refrigerator shelf support 11. In some embodiments, the recessed portion 347 includes the height 358 greater than a height of the mounting portion 327 of the third refrigerator shelf support 311. In some embodiments, a thickness 332 of the mounting portion 327 of the refrigerator shelf support 11 (see FIG. 13) is less than the thickness 356 of the raised portion 346 of the removable refrigerator shelf support 11. The thickness 332 of the mounting portion 327 may be less than or equal to a difference between the thickness 356 of the raised portion 346 and the thickness 357 of the recessed portion 347. For example, when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 is mounted on the refrigerator shelf support 11, the mounting portion 327 of the refrigerator shelf support 11 may be positioned adjacent to the recessed portion 347 and at least partially underneath the raised portion 346 of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. Thereby, the recessed portion 347 provides clearance for the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 to be mounted on the refrigerator shelf support 11.

[0096] With reference to FIGS. 2, 7, and 15, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be symmetrical. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may include the second side wall 23 being identical to the first side wall 22. In other words, the above embodiments describing the configuration of the first side wall 22 may also describe the configuration of the second side wall 23 when the first and second side walls are identical. For example, a handle attachment portion 25 of the second side wall 23 and / or a mounting portion 26 of the second side wall 23 may be configured identically to the handle attachment portion 25 and / or the mounting portion 26 of the first side wall 22, based on the disclosure herein. In some embodiments, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may include the second side wall 23 where the second side wall 23 is configured differently than the first side wall 22.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 15, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 further includes a third side wall 28 and a fourth side wall 29, wherein the third side wall 28 and the fourth side wall 29 are connected to the base portion 21. the third side wall 28 may be positioned opposite to the fourth side wall 29. The third side wall 28 and the fourth side wall 29 may extend from the first side wall 22 to the second side wall 23.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. I la through 16b, the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be mounted onto the refrigerator shelf support 11 for storage in the refrigerator 10. The handle assembly 24 may be in the first position 40 (see FIG. 3 a) during storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20 may be removed from the refrigerator 10 for transporting food products to another location (e.g., cooking area, outdoor cooking area, table, etc.). The handle assembly 24 may be rotated into the second position 41 (see FIG. 5a) for carrying the removable refrigerator shelf assembly 20, as described herein.

[0099] The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the elements (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein may beperformed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the claims unless otherwise stated. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential.

[0100] As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in the appended claims.

[0101] Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, Z, X and Y, X and Z, Y and Z, or X, Y, and Z (e.g., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each be present, unless otherwise indicated.

[0102] It should be noted that the terms “exemplary” and “example” as used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and / or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such term is not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).

[0103] The terms “coupled,” “connected,” and the like, as used herein, mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g.,permanent, etc.) or moveable (e.g., removable, releasable, etc.). Such joining may be achieved with the two members, or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another.[01041 References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” “between,” etc.) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the figures. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.[01051 As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, particularly in terms of providing a written description, all language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” and the like, include the number recited and may refer to ranges which may be subsequently broken down into subranges. As will be understood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member.

[0106] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the various example embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, various parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various example embodiments without departing from the scope of the concepts presented herein.

[0107] While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any inventions or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations of particular inventions. Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation.Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0108] Other embodiments are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A refrigerator, comprising: a removable refrigerator shelf assembly, comprising: a base portion; a first side wall positioned opposite a second side wall, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall are connected to the base portion, and wherein the first side wall comprises: a handle attachment portion extending from an uppermost edge of the first side wall toward the base portion; a raised portion positioned below the handle attachment portion, wherein a thickness of the raised portion is greater than a thickness of the handle attachment portion; and a recessed portion positioned below the raised portion, wherein a thickness of the recessed portion is less than the thickness of the raised portion; and wherein a refrigerator shelf support is positioned at least partially adjacent to the recessed portion and underneath the raised portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is mounted on the refrigerator shelf support; and a handle assembly rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion, wherein the handle assembly extends from the first side wall to the second side wall.

2. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the handle assembly and the raised portion form a planar region parallel to the first side wall.

3. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the raised portion comprises a ridge extending a length along a bottom of the handle attachment portion.

4. The refrigerator of claim 3, wherein the handle assembly is positioned to rest on the ridge of the raised portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is in a first position for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

5. The refrigerator of claim 4, wherein the handle assembly is positioned perpendicular to the base portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is in a second position for holding the removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

6. The refrigerator of claim 1 further comprising the refrigerator shelf support, wherein the refrigerator shelf support comprises: a base configured to support the removable refrigerator shelf assembly when mounted thereon; a raised edge around a perimeter of the base configured to at least partially retain the removable refrigerator shelf assembly; and a mounting portion comprising a cutout for connecting the refrigerator shelf support to an interior surface of the refrigerator.

7. The refrigerator of claim 6, wherein the refrigerator shelf support is positioned on a refrigerator door assembly.

8. The refrigerator of claim 6, wherein the mounting portion of the refrigerator shelf support is positioned at least partially adjacent to the recessed portion and underneath the raised portion of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is positioned on the base of the refrigerator shelf support.

9. The refrigerator of claim 5, wherein the handle attachment portion comprises a first notch configured to lock the handle assembly in the second position.

10. The refrigerator of claim 5, wherein the handle attachment portion comprises a second notch configured to lock the handle assembly in a third position, wherein the handle assembly is positioned between the first position and the second position when in the third position.

11. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the removable refrigerator shelf assembly further comprises a third side wall and a fourth side wall, wherein the third side wall and the fourth side wall are connected to the base portion, wherein the third side wall is positioned oppositeto the fourth side wall, and wherein the third side wall and the fourth side wall extend from the first side wall to the second side wall.

12. A removable refrigerator shelf assembly, comprising: a base portion; a first side wall positioned opposite a second side wall, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall are connected to the base portion, and wherein the first side wall comprises: a handle attachment portion extending from an uppermost edge of the first side wall toward the base portion; a raised portion positioned below the handle attachment portion, wherein a thickness of the raised portion is greater than a thickness of the handle attachment portion; and a recessed portion positioned below the raised portion, wherein a thickness of the recessed portion is less than the thickness of the raised portion; and wherein a shelf support is positioned at least partially adjacent to the recessed portion and underneath the raised portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is mounted on the shelf support; and a handle assembly rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion, wherein the handle assembly extends from the first side wall to the second side wall.

13. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly of claim 12, wherein the handle assembly and the raised portion form a planar region parallel to the first side wall.

14. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly of claim 12, wherein the raised portion comprises a ridge extending a length along a bottom of the handle attachment portion.

15. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly of claim 14, wherein the handle assembly is positioned to rest on the ridge of the raised portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is in a first position for storage of the removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

16. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly of claim 15, wherein the handle assembly is positioned perpendicular to the base portion when the removable refrigerator shelf assembly is in a second position for holding the removable refrigerator shelf assembly.

17. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly of claim 16, wherein the handle attachment portion comprises a first notch configured to lock the handle assembly in the second position.

18. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly of claim 16, wherein the handle attachment portion comprises a second notch configured to lock the handle assembly in a third position, wherein the handle assembly is positioned between the first position and the second position when in the third position.

19. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly of claim 12, further comprising a third side wall and a fourth side wall, wherein the third side wall and the fourth side wall are connected to the base portion, wherein the third side wall is positioned opposite the fourth side wall, and wherein the third side wall and the fourth side wall extend from the first side wall to the second side wall.

20. The removable refrigerator shelf assembly of claim 12, wherein a second handle assembly is rotatably coupled to the handle attachment portion.

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