Reusable food container and method for cleaning a reusable food container

Abstract

The invention relates to a reusable food container (1) for receiving food, comprising: a container (10) and a lid (20) that closes the container in a leak-proof way; a container bottom (11); a container wall (12); a recess (30) formed in the container wall, the recess being formed by a bottom (37) and a wall (38, 38.1), and the wall and / or the bottom of the recess having one or more through-holes (34) in the region of the bottom of the recess; and a handle (60) for a reusable food container. The invention also relates to a method for cleaning a reusable food container.

Description

[0001] Reusable food container and method for cleaning a reusable food container - does not hold anything

[0002] The invention describes a reusable food container for holding food, comprising a container, a container base, a container wall, and a recess formed on the container wall, wherein the recess is formed by a base and a wall, and wherein the wall and / or the base of the recess has a passage in the region of the recess base. The invention further describes a method for cleaning a reusable food container.

[0003] State of the art

[0004] Reusable food containers are already well-known and are being used more and more. They are becoming increasingly popular, especially for food and in the catering sector, as demand and legal requirements are moving away from single-use packaging.

[0005] Since 2023, caterers, delivery services, and restaurants have been required to offer reusable packaging as an alternative to disposable containers for takeaway and delivery food and drinks. Exceptions are only made for small businesses that can fill customers' own containers with food and drinks.

[0006] The PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) is a proposed EU regulation intended to replace the 1994 Packaging Ordinance. Its aim is to reduce packaging waste, standardize recycling, and promote reusable and reused packaging across Europe. The goal is to significantly reduce packaging waste by 2040 and create a circular economy for packaging. For internal transport packaging between company sites, the rule is: it must be fully reusable – regardless of quotas. Internal transport packaging used to move goods between a company's own sites must be completely reusable according to the PPWR – single-use packaging is prohibited. Since these are closed-loop logistics systems, 100% reusability is automatically mandated, without any quotas.

[0007] Reusable food containers are collected after use, for example through a deposit system, and cleaned before being filled with food. The cleaning process must be designed in such a way that no food residue remains in the container and, in particular, does not provide a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and germs. Additionally, the cleaning process should be quick, energy-efficient, and cost-effective.

[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a reusable food container that is quick, energy-efficient and cost-effective to clean.

[0009] It is also an object of the invention to provide a method for cleaning a reusable food container that is fast, energy-efficient and cost-effective.

[0010] Description of the invention

[0011] The problem is solved by means of the reusable food container according to the invention for holding food. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are set out in the dependent claims.

[0012] The reusable food container according to the invention comprises a container. The container has the volume required to hold the food and is optionally closable with a lid.

[0013] The reusable food container has a base and a wall. The base is located at the bottom of the container and limits the volume available for holding food. The bottom of the container is the side opposite the side where an optional lid is located. The lid is therefore located at the top of the container. When the reusable food container is used as intended, the lid is at the top and the base is at the bottom.

[0014] The container wall is positioned on one side of the reusable food container and forms an angle with the container base. In another embodiment, the reusable food container has multiple container walls positioned on several sides of the reusable food container, forming angles with the container base.

[0015] The reusable food container has a recess formed in its wall. This recess allows the container to be transported by a user, for example, by placing their fingers into it or using a handle. The recess consists of a base and a wall. The wall at the base of the recess has a passage.

[0016] For cleaning the reusable food container, the container is positioned in a cleaning device such that the bottom of the recess is at the top and the sealing surface with the recess is at the bottom of the container. During cleaning, the reusable food container can be cleaned and dried inside and out with a cleaning fluid. During drying, the cleaning fluid flows out of the recess through the opening. Any remaining food residue and / or cleaning fluid is effectively removed by this flow, resulting in a more thorough and faster cleaning process.

[0017] In a further embodiment of the invention, part of the wall forming the trough is part of the container wall.

[0018] In a further development of the invention, the recess has a downward-facing opening in relation to the reusable food container standing on the container base. This opening allows the reusable food container to be easily and conveniently carried and transported by a user when used as intended, for example, by the user engaging the opening with the fingers of one hand or by using an aid such as a handle.

[0019] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the opening forms a drain for liquids located in the trough. Optionally, the opening is arranged at the lowest point of the trough during the cleaning process. Optionally, the opening can be arranged in a lateral corner of the trough. During cleaning, the cleaning fluid continuously drains from the trough through the opening. During drying, the cleaning fluid is therefore completely removed from the trough, and residues of food and cleaning agents are reliably eliminated.

[0020] In a further development of the invention, the trough has several openings. Optionally, one of the openings is arranged in a lateral corner of the trough. In an alternative embodiment, in addition to an opening located in the middle, two further openings are arranged in the outer lower corners of the trough.

[0021] In a further embodiment of the invention, the container on the upper side of the container wall and the lid on its underside each have a sealing surface, wherein the reusable food container can be closed along the sealing surfaces. The upper side of the container wall and the underside of the lid are arranged relative to each other for closing the reusable food container in such a way that the respective sealing surfaces touch and optionally create a watertight seal.

[0022] In a further embodiment of the invention, the passage forms a channel with a first opening arranged on the inside of the recess and a second opening arranged on the outside of the recess. The channel connects the two openings, and during the cleaning process, cleaning fluid flows out of the recess through the channel.

[0023] In a further embodiment of the invention, the passage from the first opening to the second opening of the trough forms a slope towards the outside of the trough with respect to the reusable food container standing on the sealing surface. The second and first openings are therefore not aligned. This ensures that during the cleaning of the reusable food container, which is standing on the sealing surface, the cleaning fluid flows continuously from the trough through the passage.

[0024] In a further embodiment of the invention, the second opening of the passage is arranged at a distance from the sealing surface of the container. This ensures that during the intended use of the reusable food container, which is standing on its base, the sealing surfaces of the lid and container can be arranged in a form-fitting manner and reliably close the reusable food container.

[0025] In a further embodiment of the invention, the second opening of the passage is arranged at the edge of the sealing surface of the container. This ensures that, during the intended use of the reusable food container, which is standing on its base, the sealing surfaces of the lid and container can be arranged in a form-fitting manner and reliably close the reusable food container.

[0026] In a further embodiment of the invention, the second opening of the passage is arranged on the sealing surface of the container, wherein the width of the passage is smaller than the width of the sealing surface of the container. This ensures that during the intended use of the reusable food container, which is standing on its base, the sealing surfaces of the lid and container can be arranged in a form-fitting manner relative to each other and can reliably close the reusable food container.

[0027] In a further embodiment of the invention, the width of the opening is less than 50%, preferably less than 70%, and particularly preferably less than 80% of the width of the sealing surface of the container. This ensures that, during the intended use of the reusable food container, which stands on its base, the sealing surfaces of the lid and container can be arranged in a form-fitting manner relative to each other and reliably close the reusable food container.

[0028] In another aspect of the invention, the passage is arranged at the lowest point of the trough. Optionally, the passage is positioned at the lowest point of the trough during the cleaning process. For cleaning the reusable food container, the reusable food container is arranged in a cleaning device such that the bottom of the trough is at the top and the sealing surface with the trough is at the bottom of the reusable food container. During cleaning, the cleaning fluid continuously flows out of the trough through the passage. During drying, the cleaning fluid is therefore completely removed from the trough, and residues of food and cleaning agents are reliably eliminated.

[0029] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the bottom of the trough forms a funnel for the passage. The funnel-shaped bottom directs the cleaning fluid to the passage in such a way that the cleaning fluid can flow out of the trough unhindered.

[0030] In a further embodiment of the invention, the passage has a diameter of at least 0.1 mm, preferably at least 0.5 mm, particularly preferably at least 1.5 mm, and most preferably at least 3 mm. The diameter of the passage is selected such that the cleaning fluid present in the recess during cleaning can flow through the passage unimpeded by, for example, surface tensions.

[0031] In a further embodiment of the invention, the wall and / or the bottom of the trough has several openings in the area of ​​the bottom of the trough. The arrangement of multiple openings improves the drainage of liquids from the trough during the cleaning process.

[0032] In a further development of the invention, the reusable food container is designed and suitable for holding a liquid. The reusable food container can be closed by means of the lid and suitably arranged sealing surfaces on the lid and container, e.g., by means of a snap-on and / or screw-on closure.

[0033] In another aspect of the invention, the reusable food container can be sealed leak-proof and / or airtight by means of the lid. The reusable food container is made watertight and / or airtight by the lid and suitably arranged sealing surfaces on the lid and container, e.g., by means of a snap-on and / or screw-on closure. In a further optional embodiment of the invention, the recess is designed as a handle recess. This has the advantage that the container can be handled without additional tools.

[0034] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the recess and / or the opening is designed as a receptacle for a handle. Optionally, a locking element can be provided into which the handle can lock. With the aid of a handle, the container can be easily transported, even with one hand, without being moved from a horizontal position. This prevents the contents of the container from spilling.

[0035] In a further embodiment of the invention, the reusable food container has a lid that seals the container in a leak-proof manner. This ensures that the food is safely stored in the container.

[0036] In a further embodiment of the invention, the lid can be detachably connected to the reusable food container. When connected to the container, the lid reliably seals the food inside. However, the lid can also be detached from the container, for example, to remove the food.

[0037] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the lid has a skirt which includes an engagement element designed and suitable for engaging with the outer edge of the reusable food container. The lid can be reliably connected to the container by means of the engagement element of the skirt. This engagement can be achieved, for example, by a snap-lock mechanism.

[0038] In a further embodiment of the invention, the bottom of the trough is spaced apart from a sealing surface of the container. The bottom of the trough and the sealing surface are typically arranged on opposite sides of a wall. The wall thickness is dimensioned such that a lid can be stably and securely attached to the sealing surface by means of the engagement element of the skirt. In another aspect of the invention, the distance between the sealing surface and the bottom of the trough is at least 5 mm. The bottom of the trough and the sealing surface are typically arranged on opposite sides of a wall. The wall thickness is dimensioned such that a lid can be stably and securely attached to the sealing surface.

[0039] In a further embodiment of the invention, the distance is at least the depth of the lid's skirt. When the lid is fastened, the skirt engages with its engagement element in the gap between the sealing surface and the bottom of the recess, thus holding the lid releasably in the closed position.

[0040] In a further embodiment of the invention, the upper edge of the trough and the bottom of the trough form a flat surface. The upper edge of the trough and the bottom of the trough are arranged parallel to each other.

[0041] In a further embodiment of the invention, the trough has a wall as part of the container wall, wherein the bottom of the trough has a continuous slope relative to this wall. Preferably, this continuous slope is funnel-shaped to ensure complete drainage of the cleaning fluid during the cleaning process of the container.

[0042] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the container wall has a recess in the area of ​​the trough. This allows for a high packing density of multiple reusable food containers arranged side by side, e.g., during storage.

[0043] The problem is further solved by means of the handle according to the invention for fastening to a container.

[0044] The handle according to the invention is detachably connectable to the reusable food container, the handle having a first engagement element and a second engagement element at each of its ends. Preferably, the handle is only connectable to the reusable food container for transport purposes. For storage of the reusable food container, the handle is removable. When the handle is attached, the engagement elements optionally engage in different areas of the container's recess, thus enabling secure attachment of the handle to the container.

[0045] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first engagement element is arranged at a distance from the second engagement element. This distance between the engagement elements ensures secure attachment of the handle to the container by preventing the handle from pivoting.

[0046] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first engagement element can be brought into engagement with a recess designed as a grip recess. For this purpose, the first engagement element is preferably designed in the shape of a hook. The hook surrounds the wall of the recess and is held in position by the weight of the container.

[0047] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first engagement element is designed in the shape of a hook. The hook surrounds the wall of the recess and is held in position by the weight of the container.

[0048] In a further embodiment of the invention, the second engagement element can be brought into engagement with a passage arranged in the recess. The second engagement element is fixed in the passage by tension on the handle and by the hook of the first engagement element.

[0049] In another aspect of the invention, the second engagement element is shaped like a nose. The second engagement element forms a projection on the handle and can be snapped into the opening of the recess.

[0050] The problem is further solved by means of the inventive method for cleaning a reusable food container with a container.

[0051] The inventive method for cleaning a reusable food container comprises three process steps: In the first process step, the container is positioned in a cleaning device, wherein the container has a container base, a surrounding container wall and a container opening, wherein the container opening is arranged opposite the container base, and wherein the container is positioned in the cleaning device with the container opening pointing downwards.

[0052] The base of the reusable food container is located at the bottom and limits the volume available for holding food. The surrounding walls are positioned along the sides of the reusable food container and form an angle with the base. The container opening allows the reusable food container to be filled with food and emptied again.

[0053] In the second process step, the reusable food container is automatically cleaned inside and out with a cleaning fluid. The reusable food container has a recess with a base on its surrounding wall, and the recess has an opening in its base. The recess allows the reusable food container to be transported by a user, for example, by placing their fingers into the recess or using a carrying handle. The recess is formed by a base and a surrounding wall.

[0054] In the third step of the process, the reusable food container is dried, during which cleaning fluid flows out of the container through the opening. Any remaining food residue and / or cleaning fluid are effectively removed by this flow, resulting in a more thorough and faster cleaning process.

[0055] In a further embodiment of the invention, the recess has a downward-facing opening in relation to the reusable food container standing on the container base, whereby cleaning fluid penetrates the recess through this opening during the cleaning process. This opening allows the reusable food container to be easily and conveniently carried and transported by a user when used as intended, for example, by the user engaging the opening with the fingers of one hand or by using an aid such as a handle. In a further embodiment of the invention, any liquids that have already penetrated the recess drain away through the opening before the drying process begins. During cleaning, the cleaning fluid continuously drains from the recess through the opening.During the drying process, the cleaning fluid is completely removed from the recess, reliably eliminating residues of food and cleaning agents.

[0056] In a further embodiment of the invention, the opening has a first opening located on the inside of the recess and a second opening located on the outside of the recess. The opening from the second opening to the first opening of the recess slopes downwards towards the inside of the recess with respect to the reusable food container standing on the base of the container. Thus, the first and second openings are not aligned. This ensures that, during the intended use of the reusable food container, which is standing on the base of the container, the sealing surfaces of the lid and container can be arranged in a form-fitting manner and reliably close the reusable food container.

[0057] In another aspect of the invention, the passage is arranged at the lowest point of the trough. Optionally, the passage is positioned at the lowest point of the trough during the cleaning process. For cleaning the reusable food container, the reusable food container is arranged in a cleaning device such that the bottom of the trough is at the top and the sealing surface with the trough is at the bottom of the reusable food container. During cleaning, the cleaning fluid continuously flows out of the trough through the passage. During drying, the cleaning fluid is therefore completely removed from the trough, and residues of food and cleaning agents are reliably eliminated.

[0058] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the bottom of the trough forms a funnel for the passage. The funnel-shaped bottom directs the cleaning fluid to the passage in such a way that the cleaning fluid can flow out of the trough unhindered.

[0059] In a further embodiment of the invention, the passage has a diameter of at least 0.1 mm, preferably at least 1.5 mm, particularly preferably at least 1 mm, and most preferably at least 3 mm. The diameter of the passage is selected such that the cleaning fluid present in the recess during cleaning can flow through the passage unhindered by, for example, surface tensions.

[0060] In a further optional embodiment of the invention, the recess is designed as a handle recess. This has the advantage that the container can be handled without additional aids.

[0061] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the recess is designed to accommodate a handle. Optionally, a locking element can be provided into which the handle can lock. With the aid of a handle, the container can be easily transported, even with one hand, without being tilted. This prevents the contents of the container from spilling.

[0062] Exemplary embodiments of the reusable food container according to the invention and of the method according to the invention for cleaning a reusable food container are shown schematically simplified in the drawings and are explained in more detail in the following description.

[0063] They show:

[0064] Fig. 1a: Top view of the inside of a container

[0065] Fig. 1b: Top view of the inside of a lid

[0066] Fig. 1c: Side view of a container

[0067] Fig. 2: Detail view of a container

[0068] Fig. 3: Detail view of a container

[0069] Fig. 4: Detail view of a container, funnel-shaped bottom

[0070] Fig. 5: Detail view of a container, funnel-shaped bottom

[0071] Fig. 6: Detail view of a container, two openings

[0072] Fig. 7: Detail view of a container with a side opening

[0073] Fig. 8: Side view of a cleaning device

[0074] Fig. 9: Detailed view of a container during the cleaning process

[0075] Fig. 10a Side view of the container with a recessed handle

[0076] Fig. 10b Side view of the container with a handle engaging in a recess. Fig. 11a Top view of the outside of a lid.

[0077] Fig. 11b Side view of the outside of a lid

[0078] Fig. 12: Detail view of a container

[0079] Fig. 13: Detail view of a container

[0080] Fig. 14: Detail view of a container

[0081] Fig. 15: Detail view of a container

[0082] Fig. 16: Detail view of a container

[0083] Fig. 17: Detail view of a container

[0084] Fig. 18: Detail view of a container

[0085] Fig. 19a: Detail view of a container

[0086] Fig. 19b: Detail view of a container

[0087] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of the reusable food container 1 according to the invention, preferably for holding foodstuffs. The reusable food container 1 has a container 10 (Fig. 1a, Fig. 1c) for holding the foodstuff and a matching lid 20 (Fig. 1b). The reusable food container 1 is suitable and intended for holding a liquid foodstuff (e.g., coffee, tea, milk, etc.).

[0088] The container 10 has a base 11 and a circumferential wall 12 with a circular cross-section. The container 10 can be filled with or emptied of food via the opening 13. The sealing surface 35 is located on the upper surface 36 of the container wall 12. The lid 20 also has a sealing surface 35.1 and is designed such that it reversibly seals the container 10 in an airtight and watertight manner, with the sealing surfaces 35 and 35.1 of the container 10 and the lid 20 being precisely aligned.

[0089] When the reusable food container 1 is used as intended, it is oriented, particularly by a user, such that the container base 11 is located on the underside and the sealing surface 35 on the top 36 of the reusable food container 1. The container wall 12 has two opposing recesses 30 on the side opposite the container base 11, each with an engagement 39. These recesses are dimensioned such that a user can manually, e.g., with their fingers, hold and / or transport the container 10 by the engagement 39, or an aid such as a handle can be inserted into the recess.

[0090] The container 39 is formed by two walls 38, 38.1 and a base 37. The recesses 30 each have a passage 34 that leads through the base 37 from the engagement 39 to the sealing surface 35 on the upper surface 36 of the container wall. In this embodiment, part of the wall 38.1 is formed by part of the container wall 12.

[0091] For the purpose of cleaning the reusable food container 1, particularly by machine (see Fig. 7), the reusable food container 1 is positioned in the cleaning device in such a way as to

[0092] 40 is arranged such that the container base 11 is located at the top and the sealing surface 35 with recess 30 is located at the bottom of the reusable food container 1. The container opening 13 is also oriented downwards. This arrangement ensures thorough cleaning, especially of the inside of the container 10.

[0093] The reusable food container 1 is then cleaned inside and out with a cleaning fluid 50 and subsequently dried, preferably by a stream of warm air. During drying, the cleaning fluid 50 flows out of the recess 30 through the opening 34. Any remaining residues of the food and / or the cleaning fluid 50 are effectively removed by flowing through the opening 34, resulting in more thorough and faster cleaning.

[0094] Fig. 2 shows a detailed view of an embodiment of a trough 30. The trough 30 has the recess 39, which is dimensioned such that a user can hold and / or transport the container 10 by hand at the recess 39, or an aid such as a handle can be inserted into the trough. The recess 39 is formed by two walls 38, 38.1 and a base 37. The trough 30 has a passage 34 that leads through the base 37 from the recess 39 to the sealing surface 35 on the upper surface 36 of the container wall. In this embodiment, the passage 34 is arranged in the middle between the two walls 38, 38.1. In this embodiment, part of the wall 38.1 is formed by part of the container wall 12.

[0095] Fig. 3 shows a detailed view of another embodiment of a trough 30. The trough

[0096] 30 corresponds to that presented in the preceding embodiments (see Fig. 1, Fig. 2); however, in this embodiment, the passage 34 is not arranged in the middle between the two walls 38, 38.1, but rather at the edge of the base 37 adjacent to a wall 38. In this embodiment, part of the wall 38.1 is formed by part of the container wall 12.

[0097] The passage 34 has the channel 33 with two opposing openings 31 ,

[0098] 32. The first opening 31 is located on the inside of the base 37 of the recess 30. The second opening 32 is located on the top 36 of the container wall and on the sealing surface 35. The channel 33 connects the two openings 31 and 32 and has a diameter of 2 mm. In further embodiments, the channel 33 has a diameter of at least 0.1 mm, preferably at least 1 mm, particularly preferably at least 2 mm, and most preferably at least 4 mm. The diameter of the channel 33 is selected such that the cleaning fluid present in the recess 30 during cleaning can flow through the channel 33 unimpeded by, for example, surface tensions.

[0099] Fig. 4 shows a detailed view of another embodiment of a trough 30. In this embodiment, the passage 34 is connected to the channel connecting the openings 31, 32.

[0100] 33 is arranged in the middle between the two walls 38, 38.1. In this embodiment, part of wall 38.1 is formed by part of the container wall 12. Furthermore, the bottom 37 is designed such that it forms a funnel for the passage 34. During the cleaning process (see Fig. 7), the upper surface 36 of the container wall faces downwards, and the passage 34 is then located at the lowest point of the recess 30. The funnel-shaped bottom 37 guides the cleaning fluid 50 to the passage 34 in such a way that the cleaning fluid 50 can drain freely from the recess 30.

[0101] Fig. 5 shows a detailed view of another embodiment of a trough 30. In this embodiment as well, the bottom 37 forms a funnel for the passage 34, and during cleaning, the passage 34 is also located at the lowest point of the trough 30. However, in this embodiment, the passage 34 is not located in the middle between the two walls 38, 38.1, but rather at the edge of the bottom 37 adjacent to a wall 38. In this embodiment, part of the wall 38.1 is formed by a portion of the container wall 12. The second opening 32 of the passage 34 is located on the sealing surface 35 of the container 10, with the width of the passage 34 being smaller than the width of the sealing surface 35 of the container 10. This ensures that during the intended use of the reusable food container 1, which is placed on the container base 11, the sealing surfaces 35, 35.1 of lid 20 and container 10 can be arranged in a form-fitting manner and can reliably close the reusable food container 1.

[0102] Fig. 6 shows a detailed view of another embodiment of a trough 30. The trough 30 shown here has two openings 34.1, 34.2. Each opening 34.1, 34.2 has a channel 33 with two openings 31, 32.

[0103] Fig. 7 shows a detailed view of another embodiment of a trough 30. The trough 30 shown here has a passage 34 in the outer wall 38 of the trough 30. The passage 34 is located approximately at the point of contact between the bottom 37 and the outer wall 38 of the trough 30. The passage 34 has a channel 33 with two openings 31, 32. In an alternative embodiment, the bottom 37 is formed at an angle between the wall 38 and the passage 34, so that, in the case of a reusable container with the opening facing downwards, the bottom 37 forms a plane inclined towards the passage 34.

[0104] Figures 8 and 9 show an embodiment of a cleaning device 40 and the cleaning process of the reusable food container 1 according to the invention. The cleaning device 40 (Figure 8) has a conveyor belt 41 on which four containers 10 are arranged. The containers 10 are arranged on the conveyor belt 41 with their opening 13 facing downwards. In another embodiment, lids 20 can also be placed inside the cleaning device 40, e.g., between the containers 10.

[0105] The cleaning device 40 has a watertight enclosure 44. The interior of the cleaning device 40 is divided into a cleaning area 42 and a drying area 43. During the cleaning process, the conveyor belt 41 transports the containers 10 from the cleaning area 42 to the drying area 43. In the cleaning area 42, a number of reusable food containers 1 are cleaned by applying a cleaning fluid 50 to the top and bottom of the containers 10. After washing with the cleaning fluid 50, the containers 10 are transported to the drying area 43, where they are dried by a stream of warm air flowing onto them from both the top and bottom.

[0106] During the cleaning process, the passage 34 is arranged at the lowest point of the trough 30 as shown (see Fig. 7), with the bottom 37 forming a funnel towards the passage 34 (Fig. 9). During cleaning, the cleaning fluid 50 flows continuously from the trough 30 through the passage 34. Therefore, during drying in the drying area 43, the cleaning fluid 50 is completely removed from the trough 30, reliably eliminating food and cleaning agent residues.

[0107] Figures 10a and 10b illustrate the various uses of the container 10. Figure 10a shows the recess 30 configured as a handle. In this form, the handle 30 provides sufficient space for four fingers of an average-sized hand. The handle 30 is formed on two sides of the container 10, allowing the container 10 to be lifted and transported with both hands. Figure 10b shows the recess 30 as a receptacle for an aid used with the container 10. In this embodiment, the aid is a handle 60 with an engagement element 61 that engages in the recess 30. Figures 10a and 10b also show the opening 34, the sealing surface 35, the upper surface of the container wall 36, the bottom of the recess 37, the wall of the recess as part of the container wall 38.1, and the engagement 39.

[0108] A further embodiment of a lid 20 according to the invention for sealing a reusable food container 1 in an airtight and watertight manner is shown in Fig. 11. In all further embodiments, the lid 20 has a square shape with rounded corners, and the upper edge of the container 10 to be sealed with the lid 20 is also square with rounded corners to match (Fig. 11a). The lid 20 has the sealing surface 35.1, which, when closed, rests on the sealing surface 35 of the container 10 (see Fig. 12). The lid 20 also has a skirt 21 around its outer edge (Fig. 11b), which has an engagement element that engages around the upper edge 36 of the container 10 and thus seals the container 10 in an airtight and watertight manner. Fig. 12 shows a further embodiment of the reusable food container 1 according to the invention, closed by means of the lid 20.The reusable food container 1 comprises the container 10 with a base 11 on its underside and walls 12 on its sides. The container 10 has a recess 30, which is bounded by the base 37 and the walls 38, 38.1. The recess 30 is open on one side; this open side serves as a grip 39, for example, for a hand. The outward-facing wall 38 of the recess 30 has a slot-shaped opening 34 through which the cleaning fluid 50 continuously flows out of the recess 30 during cleaning of the container 10.

[0109] An embodiment of a container 10 is shown in Fig. 13. The container 10 has a square base (in top view) and is therefore suitable for the lid 20 described in Fig. 11. The container 10 has a base 11 on its underside and walls 12 on its four sides. The container 10 has a recess 30, which is bounded by the base 37 and the walls 38, 38.1. The recess 30 is open on one side; this open side is designed as a recess 39. The outward-facing wall 38 of the recess 30 has a slot-shaped opening 34.

[0110] Fig. 14 shows a sectional drawing through the median plane of the area of ​​the trough 30. The container 10 corresponds to that described in the preceding embodiment (see Fig. 13). The trough 30 is located in the upper region of the container 10 near the top surface 36 of the container wall. The trough 30 is arranged in the recess 14 of the container wall 12 and is bounded at the upper region of the container 10 by the bottom 37 of the trough and by the wall 38.1.

[0111] Fig. 15 shows a further sectional drawing through the plane of the wall 38 of the recess 30. The container 10 corresponds to those described in the preceding embodiments (see Fig. 13, Fig. 14). The opening 34 has a locking lug 80 for receiving a second engagement element 61b (see Fig. 18). Fig. 16 shows a sectional drawing through the central plane of the container 10, with the recesses 30 shown from the side. The container 10 corresponds to those described in the preceding embodiments (see Fig. 13, Fig. 14, Fig. 15). Advantageously, a recess 30 is arranged on each of opposite side surfaces 12 of the container 10. The container 10 can therefore be carried and transported with two hands 70.

[0112] The container wall 12 has a recess 14 in the area of ​​each of the compartments 30, the width of which is essentially equal to the width of the compartment 30. The compartments 30 are arranged within the recess 14. This allows for a high packing density of multiple reusable food containers 1 arranged side by side, for example, during storage. The compartment (30) has a wall (38.1) as part of the container wall, with the bottom (37) of the compartment (30) having a continuous slope towards this wall (38.1). At the point of contact between the bottom and the outer wall 38 of the compartment, a lateral opening 34 is arranged in the outer wall 38 of the compartment.

[0113] Fig. 17 shows a side view of the reusable food container 1. The opening 13 of the container 10 is sealed airtight and watertight by the lid 20, and a handle 60 is attached to the container 10. Recesses 30 are arranged on opposite sides of the container. The handle 60 has a first engagement element 61a and a second engagement element 61b at each of its opposite ends; the first engagement element 61a engages in the recess 30 (see Fig. 18).

[0114] Fig. 18 shows a detailed drawing of the engagement of the handle 60 in the recess 30. The lid 20 is detachably connected to the container 10. The vertically arranged skirt 21 of the lid has the engagement element, which engages with the outer edge of the sealing surface 35 of the container wall 12. The outer edge forms a gap of at least 5 mm (6 mm in this embodiment) between the sealing surface 35 of the container wall and the bottom 37 of the recess 30. The bottom of the recess 37 and the sealing surface 35 are parallel. The skirt 21 is therefore shorter to allow the engagement element of the skirt 21 to fully engage with the outer edge of the sealing surface 35. In this embodiment, the skirt has a length of 4 mm. The handle 60 has the hook-shaped first engagement element 61a and the nose-shaped second engagement element 61b. Both intervention elements 61a, 61b are arranged apart from each other.The hook 61a engages with one leg in the recess 30, the curvature of the hook 61a engages around the outer wall 38 of the recess 30. The nose of the second engagement element 61b engages in the locking nose 80 of the passage 34.

[0115] The distance between the two engagement elements 61a, 61b is dimensioned such that the center of curvature of the hook 61a is located below and touches the outer wall 38 of the recess 30. When the reusable food container 1 is lifted, the outer wall 38 rests on the center of curvature of the hook 61a and is supported by it.

[0116] An embodiment of a container 10 is shown in Figs. 19a and b. The container 10 has a square base (in top view) and is therefore suitable for the lid 20 described in Fig. 11. The container 10 has a base 11 on its underside and walls 12 on its four sides. The container 10 has a recess 30, which is bounded by the base 37 (dashed line) and the walls 38, 38.1. The recess 30 is open on one side; this open side is designed as a recess 39. The outward-facing wall 38 of the recess 30 has two slot-shaped openings 34a, 34b in the rounded corners of the recess (Fig. 19a). In Fig. 19 b, the two slot-shaped openings in the rounded corners of the trough are combined with a further central opening 34 in the middle of the trough.

[0117] REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0118] Reusable food container

[0119] container

[0120] Container bottom

[0121] Container wall

[0122] Container opening

[0123] Recess in the container wall

[0124] Lid

[0125] Apron of the lid

[0126] trough

[0127] First opening

[0128] Second opening

[0129] Canal, 34.1, 34.2, 34a, passage b

[0130] Sealing surface .1 Sealing surface of the lid

[0131] Top of the container wall

[0132] floor of the hollow

[0133] Wall of the trough .1 Wall of the trough as part of the container wall

[0134] procedure

[0135] Cleaning device

[0136] conveyor belt

[0137] Cleaning area

[0138] Dry area

[0139] Enclosure

[0140] Cleaning fluid

[0141] Henkel 61, 61a, 61b Engagement element of the handle

[0142] 70 Hand

[0143] 80 Rastnase

Claims

PATENTA NSPRÜCHE 1. Reusable food container (1) for holding food with • a container (10) • a container bottom (11), • a container wall (12), • a recess (30) formed on the container wall (12), wherein the recess (30) is formed by a bottom (37) and a wall (38, 38.1), wherein the wall (38) has one or more openings (34) in the area of ​​the bottom (37) of the recess (30).

2. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to claim 1, characterized in that the recess (30) is located in relation to the reusable container standing on the bottom (11) of the container food container (1) has a downward-facing indentation (39).

3. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the opening(s) (34) form a drain for liquids (50) located in the recess (30).

4. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container (10) on the top (36) of the container wall (12) and the lid (20) each have a sealing surface (35, 35.1) on its underside, wherein the reusable food container (1) can be closed along the sealing surfaces (35, 35.1).

5. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the passage (34) forms a channel (33) with a first opening (31) arranged on the inside of the recess (30) and a second opening (32) arranged on the outside of the recess (30).

6. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to claim 5, characterized in that the passage from the first opening (31) to the second opening (32) of the recess (30) in relation to the reusable container standing on the sealing surface (35) The food container (1) forms a slope towards the outside of the trough (30).

7. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the second opening (32) of the passage (34) is arranged at a distance from the sealing surface (35) of the container (10).

8. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the passage (34) is arranged at the lowest point of the recess (30).

9. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bottom (37) of the trough (30) forms a funnel for passage (34).

10. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening (34) has a diameter of at least 0.1mm, preferably at least 0.5mm, particularly preferably at least 1mm and especially preferably at least 1.5mm.

11. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wall (38) and / or the bottom (37) of the trough (30) has several openings (34.1, 34.2) in the area of ​​the bottom (37) of the trough (30).

12. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reusable food container (1) is designed and suitable for holding a liquid.

13. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reusable food container (1) can be sealed watertight and / or airtight by the lid (20).

14. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recess (30) is designed as a handle recess.

15. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recess (30) and / or the opening (34) is designed as a receptacle for a handle (60).

16. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reusable food container (1) has a lid (20) that seals the container (10) in a leak-proof manner, 17. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to claim 16, characterized in that the lid (20) is detachably connectable to the reusable food container (1).

18. Reusable food container (1) for holding food according to Claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the lid (20) has a skirt (21) which has an engagement element which is designed and suitable for engaging with the outer edge of the reusable food container (1).

19. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bottom (37) of the recess (30) is arranged spaced apart from a sealing surface (35) of the container (10).

20. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to claim 19, characterized in that the distance between the sealing surface (35) and the bottom (37) of the recess (30) is at least 5 mm.

21. Reusable food container (1) for holding food according to Claim 19 or 20, characterized in that the distance is at least the depth of the apron (21) of the cover (20).

22. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper edge of the recess (30) and the bottom (37) of the recess (30) form a flat surface.

23. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recess (30) has a wall (38.1) as part of the container wall, wherein the floor (37) of the hollow (30) to this wall (38.1) of the hollow (30) a continuous shows a pattern.

24. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container wall (12) has a depression (14) in the area of ​​the recess (30), 25. Reusable food container (1) for holding foodstuffs according to claim 24, characterized in that the recess (30) is arranged in the depression (14).

26. Handle (60) for a reusable food container (1), characterized in that the handle (60) is detachably connectable to the reusable food container (1), wherein the handle has a first engagement element (61a) and a second engagement element (61b) at each of its ends.

27. Henkel (60) for a reusable food container (1) according to claim 26, characterized in that the first engagement element (61a) is arranged spaced apart from the second engagement element (61b).

28. Henkel (60) for a reusable food container (1) according to claim 26 or 27, characterized in that the first engagement element (61a) can be brought into engagement with a recess (30) designed as a grip recess.

29. Handle (60) for a reusable food container (1) according to claim 28, characterized in that the first engagement element (61a) is hook-shaped.

30. Henkel (60) for a reusable food container (1) according to one or more of claims 26 to 29, characterized in that the second engagement element (61b) can be brought into engagement with the passage (34) arranged on the recess (30).

31. Henkel (60) for a reusable food container (1) according to claim 30, characterized in that the second engagement element (61b) is nose-shaped.

32. Method for cleaning a reusable food container (1) with a container (10) and a lid (20) comprising the process steps • Positioning the container (10) in a cleaning device (40), wherein the container (10) has a container base (11), a circumferential container wall (12) and a container opening (13), wherein the container opening (13) is arranged opposite the container base (11), wherein the container (10) is positioned in the cleaning device (40) with the container opening (13) pointing downwards, • Automated cleaning of the reusable food container (1) from the inside and from the outside with a cleaning fluid, wherein the reusable food container (1) has a recess (30) with a bottom (37) on the surrounding container wall (12), wherein the recess (30) has a passage (34) in the area of ​​the bottom (37) of the recess (30), • Drying of the reusable food container (1), wherein during the drying of the reusable food container (1) cleaning fluid (50) flows out of the recess (30) through the passage (34).

33. Method for cleaning a reusable food container (1) according to claim 32, characterized in that the recess (30) has a downwardly pointing recess (39) in relation to the reusable food container (1) standing on the container base (11), wherein during the cleaning process cleaning fluid (50) penetrates into the recess (30) through the recess (39).

34. Method for cleaning a reusable food container (1) according to claim 32 or 33, characterized in that liquids (50) that have already entered the recess (30) before the start of drying drain through the passage (34).

35. Method for cleaning a reusable food container (1) according to one or more of claims 32 to 34, characterized in that the passage (34) has a first opening (31) arranged on the inside of the trough (30) and a second opening (32) arranged on the outside of the trough (30), wherein the passage (34) from the second opening (32) to the first opening (31) of the trough (30) forms a slope towards the inside of the trough (30) with respect to the reusable food container (1) standing on the container base (11).

36. Method for cleaning a reusable food container (1) according to one or more of claims 32 to 35, characterized in that the passage (34) is arranged at the lowest point of the recess (30).

37. A method for cleaning a reusable food container (1) according to one or more of claims 32 to 36, characterized in that the bottom (37) of the recess (30) forms a funnel for the passage (34).

38. A method for cleaning a reusable food container (1) according to one or more of claims 32 to 37, characterized in that the passage (34) has a diameter of at least 0.1 mm, preferably at least 0.5 mm, particularly preferably at least 1 mm, and especially preferably at least 1.5 mm.

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