Container for gaming accessories
The container design addresses the challenge of handling large gaming accessory collections by integrating a handle and magnetic flap closure, enhancing user experience through secure and stable storage solutions.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HEAVY PLAY LLC
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-15
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-25
AI Technical Summary
Existing gaming accessory containers, such as long boxes, are cumbersome and difficult to handle due to their size and weight when filled with large quantities of cards or other items, necessitating an improved design for enhanced user experience.
A container with a molded shell design featuring a handle, magnetic flap closure, and segmented sidewalls that allow for secure storage and easy transport of gaming accessories, including a receiving portion for cards and other items, with the ability to remain stable in both horizontal and vertical orientations.
The container provides secure storage and easy handling of gaming accessories, reducing the burden of transporting large quantities of items by incorporating a handle and magnetic flap closure, ensuring stability and ease of use.
Smart Images

Figure US2025059727_25062026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCTCONTAINER FOR GAMING ACCESSORIESCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 736,428; filed on December 19, 2024; and entitled CONTAINER FOR GAMING ACCESSORIES; the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.Technical Field
[0002] The present disclosure relates to gaming systems and containers therefore.BACKGROUND
[0003] Some games, such as trading card games or collectible card games, involve large quantities of playing and trading cards, in addition to other accessories like dice and other game pieces. Cards, dice, and other game pieces may be stored in containers, such as specialized boxes.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The disclosure includes a container including a receiving portion defining a base surface, a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a third sidewall, a fourth sidewall, and atop opening. In some embodiments, the container also includes a flap coupled to the first sidewall and configured to at least partially cover the top opening, the flap configured to magnetically couple to the second sidewall. The container may include a handle coupled to the third sidewall, the handle configured to enable a user to carry the container.
[0005] In some embodiments, the first sidewall extends from the base surface and the second sidewall extends from the base surface and is located opposite the first sidewall. The third sidewall may extend from the base surface and may be positioned substantially perpendicular to the first sidewall and the second sidewall, wherein the third sidewall may be located adjacent to a first end of the first sidewall and a first end of the second sidewall. In some embodiments, the fourth sidewall extends from the base surface and is positioned substantially perpendicular to the first sidewall and the second sidewall, wherein the fourth sidewall is located adjacent to a second end of the first sidewall and a second end of the second sidewall. The first end of the first sidewall may be located opposite the second end of the first sidewall, and the first end of the second sidewall may be located opposite the second end of the second sidewall. In somePCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT embodiments, the top opening is located opposite the base surface and is defined by the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the third sidewall, and the fourth sidewall.
[0006] The flap may include a first section, a second section, and a third section. In some embodiments, the second section is located between the first section and the third section. The first section of the flap may be coupled to the first sidewall. In some embodiments, the first section of the flap includes a first sub-section and a second sub-section. At least one of the first sub-section of the first section of the flap and the second sub-section of the first section of the flap may be coupled to the first sidewall. In some embodiments, the first sub-section of the first section of the flap is configured to move with respect to the second sub-section of the first section of the flap.
[0007] The third section of the flap may include a first sub-section and a second sub-section. In some embodiments, at least one of the first sub-section of the third section of the flap and the second sub-section of the third section of the flap is configured to couple to the second sidewall. The first sub-section of the third section of the flap may be configured to move with respect to the second sub-section of the third section of the flap.
[0008] In some embodiments, the container includes at least one magnet located within at least one of the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first section of the flap, and the third section of the flap. When the container is in a closed position, the second section of the flap may at least partially cover the top opening, and the third section of the flap may be magnetically coupled to the second sidewall.
[0009] In some embodiments, the container includes a groove extending along the second sidewall. The groove may be at least partially located adjacent to the base surface, such that when the container is in the closed position, the groove may be located between the third section of the flap and the base surface. In some embodiments, the groove is configured to receive a user’s finger to enable the user to lift the third section of the flap away from the second sidewall. The groove may define an indentation in the second sidewall. In some embodiments, the groove extends along substantially an entire length of the second sidewall. The groove may extend along a portion of a length of the second sidewall.
[0010] When the container is in an open position, the third section of the flap may be configured to magnetically couple to the first section of the flap. In some embodiments, when the container is in an open position, at least a portion of the third section of the flap is configured to magnetically couple to at least a portion of the first section of the flap. When the container is in an open position, the third section of the flap may be configured to magnetically couple to the first sidewall. In some embodiments, when the container is in an open position, at leastPCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT a portion of the third section of the flap is configured to magnetically couple to at least a portion of the first sidewall.
[0011] The container may be configured to magnetically couple to at least one secondary device. In some embodiments, the container defines a first container, and the at least one secondary device defines a device selected from the group consisting of a dice box, a deckbox, a second container, a playmat, and combinations thereof.
[0012] The receiving portion may be configured to receive at least one item. In some embodiments, the at least one item is selected from the group consisting of a playing card, a plurality of playing cards, a deckbox, a plurality of deckboxes, and combinations thereof.
[0013] The first sidewall may define a first end section, a second end section located opposite the first end section, and a middle section located between the first end section and the second end section. In some embodiments, the first end section of the first sidewall is located adjacent to the third sidewall, and the second end section of the first sidewall is located adjacent to the fourth sidewall. The first end section of the first sidewall and the second end section of the first sidewall may each define a first height, and the middle section of the first sidewall may define a second height. In some embodiments, the second height of the middle section of the first sidewall is less than the first height of the first end section and the second end section of the first sidewall. The middle section of the first sidewall may extend along substantially a majority of a length of the first sidewall.
[0014] In some embodiments, the second sidewall defines a first end section, a second end section located opposite the first end section, and a middle section located between the first end section and the second end section. The first end section of the second sidewall may be located adjacent to the third sidewall, and the second end section of the second sidewall may be located adjacent to the fourth sidewall. In some embodiments, the first end section of the second sidewall and the second end section of the second sidewall each define a first height, and the middle section of the second sidewall defines a second height. The second height of the middle section of the second sidewall may be less than the first height of the first end section and the second end section of the second sidewall. In some embodiments, the middle section of the second sidewall extends along substantially a majority of a length of the second sidewall.
[0015] The first end section of the first sidewall may be substantially aligned with the first end section of the second sidewall. In some embodiments, the second end section of the first sidewall is substantially aligned with the second end section of the second sidewall. The middle section of the first sidewall may be substantially aligned with the middle section of the second sidewall.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT
[0016] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the handle is configured to extend through at least one opening in the third sidewall. The third sidewall may include an outer surface and an inner surface, and at least a portion of the handle may be coupled to the third sidewall between the outer surface and the inner surface.
[0017] The container may define a molded shell including the base surface, the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the third sidewall, and the fourth sidewall.
[0018] In some embodiments, the container defines a substantially rectangular cross-section. The first sidewall and the second sidewall may define a first length, and the third sidewall and the fourth sidewall may define a second length that is different from the first length. In some embodiments, the first length is greater than the second length. The container may define a rectangular elongated shape.
[0019] The disclosure further includes a container including a base surface, a top opening located opposite the base surface, a first sidewall extending from the base surface, a second sidewall extending from the base surface and located opposite the first sidewall, a third sidewall extending from the base surface and located adjacent to the first sidewall and the second sidewall, and a fourth sidewall extending from the base surface and located opposite the third sidewall. The container may further include a receiving portion defined by the base surface, the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the third sidewall, and the fourth sidewall. In some embodiments, the container includes a flap coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall and configured to at least partially cover the top opening. The container may also include a handle coupled to the third sidewall, the handle configured to enable a user to carry the container.
[0020] In some embodiments, the flap is fixedly coupled to the first sidewall and removably coupled to the second sidewall. The flap may be configured to be magnetically coupled to the second sidewall via at least one magnet located within the second sidewall and at least one magnet located within the flap.
[0021] The flap may include a first section, a second section, and a third section. In some embodiments, the second section is located between the first section and the third section. The first section may be coupled to the first sidewall. In some embodiments, the second section is configured to extend at least partially over the top opening. The third section may be configured to magnetically couple to the second sidewall.
[0022] In some embodiments, the first section of the flap includes a first sub-section, a second sub-section, and a first flexible portion located between the first sub-section of the first section of the flap and the second sub-section of the first section of the flap. The first flexible portionPCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT may be configured to enable movement of the second sub-section of the first section of the flap with respect to the first sub-section of the first section of the flap.
[0023] The flap may also include a second flexible portion located between the second subsection of the first section of the flap and the second section of the flap. The second flexible portion may be configured to enable movement of the second section of the flap with respect to the second sub-section of the first section of the flap.
[0024] In some embodiments, the third section of the flap includes a first sub-section and a second sub-section. The second sub-section of the third section of the flap may be located adjacent to the second section of the flap. In some embodiments, the flap further includes a third flexible portion located between the second section of the flap and the second sub-section of the third section of the flap. The third flexible portion may be configured to enable movement of the second sub-section of the third section of the flap with respect to the second section of the flap.
[0025] In some embodiments, the flap includes a fourth flexible portion located between the second sub-section of the third section of the flap and the first sub-section of the third section of the flap. The fourth flexible portion is configured to enable movement of the first sub-section of the third section of the flap with respect to the second sub-section of the third section of the flap.
[0026] The receiving portion may be configured to receive at least one item. In some embodiments, the at least one item is selected from the group consisting of a playing card, a plurality of playing cards, a deckbox, a plurality of deckboxes, and combinations thereof.
[0027] The container may be configured to secure one or more items disposed within the receiving portion when the container is in the closed position. The one or more items may be secured within the receiving portion when the container is held in a vertical orientation, a horizontal orientation, or both.
[0028] The foregoing, and other features and advantages of the invention, will be apparent from the following, more particular description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, the accompanying drawings, and the claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0029] These and other features, aspects, and advantages are described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, the invention. In the drawings, like characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout similar embodiments.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a container in an open position and holding an item, according to some embodiments.
[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates a top perspective view of the container in an open position, according to some embodiments.
[0032] FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of the container in an open position, according to some embodiments.
[0033] FIG. 4 illustrates a first side view of the container in a closed position, according to some embodiments.
[0034] FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of the container in a closed position, according to some embodiments.
[0035] FIG. 6 illustrates a second side view of the container in a closed position, according to some embodiments.
[0036] FIG. 7 illustrates a view of a flap of the container in a flat position, according to some embodiments.
[0037] FIG. 8 illustrates a first side view of the container in a closed position, according to some embodiments.
[0038] FIG. 9 illustrates a second side view of the container in a closed position, according to some embodiments.
[0039] FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate the container coupled to at least one secondary device, according to some embodiments.
[0040] FIG. 12 illustrates a first end view of the container in an open position, according to some embodiments.
[0041] FIG. 13 illustrates a second end view of the container in an open position, according to some embodiments.
[0042] FIG. 14 illustrates a first side perspective view of the container in an open position, according to some embodiments.
[0043] FIG. 15 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the container in an open position, according to some embodiments.
[0044] FIG. 16 illustrates a top perspective view of the container in an open position, according to some embodiments.
[0045] FIG. 17 illustrates a second end and second side perspective view of the container in a closed position, according to some embodiments.
[0046] FIG. 18 illustrates a top perspective view of the container in an open position, according to some embodiments.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT
[0047] FIG. 19 illustrates a first side view of the container in an open position, according to some embodiments.
[0048] FIG. 20 illustrates a second side view of the container in an open position, according to some embodiments.
[0049] FIG. 21 illustrates a first end view of the container, according to some embodiments.
[0050] FIG. 22 illustrates a second end and second side perspective view of the container, according to some embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0051] Playing cards are a common feature in many types of games. Trading card games, in particular, involve the collection of a large quantity of cards, and users often turn to specialized boxes to ensure the safe storage of their cards. These specialized boxes, called “deckboxes,” are often designed to hold around one hundred cards, though the average collector may amass thousands of cards over time. Some users store multiple standard deckboxes or several hundred loose cards in larger storage boxes called “long boxes.” Long boxes can be cumbersome to handle and transport due to their size and weight when filled with cards. Therefore, there is a need for an improved long box design that upgrades the user experience.
[0052] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a container 10 in an open position 104. In some embodiments, the container 10 includes a receiving portion 102 configured to hold at least one item 20, as illustrated in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the at least one item 20 is a deckbox, multiple deckboxes, and / or one or more loose playing or trading cards. The item 20 may also be a different type of gaming accessory, such as a dice box.
[0053] FIG. 2 shows another perspective view of the container 10, but without anything located in the receiving portion 102. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the receiving portion 102 is defined by a first sidewall 202, a second sidewall 204, a third sidewall 206, and a fourth sidewall 208. The first sidewall 202 may be located opposite the second sidewall 204, and the third sidewall 206 may be located opposite the fourth sidewall 208. In some embodiments, the first and second sidewalls 202, 204 extend between the third and fourth sidewalls 206, 208. The third and fourth sidewalls 206, 208 may extend between the first and second sidewalls 202, 204.
[0054] In some embodiments, the first sidewall 202 is substantially perpendicular to the third sidewall 206 and the fourth sidewall 208, and is substantially parallel to the second sidewall 204. The second sidewall 204 may be substantially perpendicular to the third sidewall 206 and the fourth sidewall 208, and substantially parallel to the first sidewall 202. In somePCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT embodiments, the third sidewall 206 is substantially perpendicular to the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204, and is substantially parallel to the fourth sidewall 208. The fourth sidewall 208 may be substantially perpendicular to the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204, and substantially parallel to the third sidewall 206.
[0055] In some embodiments, the container 10 includes a top opening 210 defined by the first sidewall 202, the second sidewall 204, the third sidewall 206, and the fourth sidewall 208. The top opening 210 may be configured to receive the at least one item 20 into the receiving portion 102. The top opening 210 may also be configured to provide access to enable a user to insert and / or remove the at least one item.
[0056] The container 10 may also include a handle 212 coupled to the third sidewall 206, as shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the handle 212 enables a user to more easily carry the container 10, as compared to simply gripping a traditional long box along the sidewalls. In addition, the inclusion of the handle 212 may make it easier for a user to remove the container 10 from a bag or backpack, as compared to a long box without a handle. Further, the handle 212 may be used to hang the container 10 from a hook or similar mechanism for storage. It should be noted that the container 10 may be configured to securely retain the at least one item 20 when the container is in both horizontal and vertical orientations. Stated differently, in some embodiments, the container 10 is able to securely retain its contents both when resting on a surface (i.e., in a horizontal orientation) and when stood up or suspended, such as from the handle 212 (i.e., in a vertical orientation).
[0057] The handle 212 may be coupled to the fourth sidewall 208 rather than the third sidewall 206. In some embodiments, the container 10 includes more than one handle 212. The handle 212 may be made of a substantially stiff and / or thick material capable of maintaining its shape, as shown in FIG. 2, rather than drooping or collapsing under its own weight. For example, the handle 212 may be constructed of nylon or a similar material. The container 10 may include a different type of handle 212 than what is shown in the accompanying figures. In some embodiments, the handle 212 is a knob-like protrusion, rather than a loop. The container 10 may include a removable handle, or no handle at all.
[0058] In some embodiments, the container 10 is made of a molded shell 214. For example, the first sidewall 202, the second sidewall 204, the third sidewall 206, and the fourth sidewall 208 may define the molded shell 214, along with the base surface 302 (shown in FIG. 3). In some embodiments, the molded shell 214 is a rigid structure strong enough to support the weight of a large quantity of cards. For example, the molded shell 214 may be constructed of polycarbonate, fiberglass, or other strong materials. These base materials may be lined withPCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT different material, such as microfiber, polyurethane leather, or any suitable material that will not damage the card(s) or other items 20 held within the receiving portion 102. The lining materials may be located on the interior and / or exterior surface(s) of the container 10.
[0059] FIG. 3 shows a top view of the container 10, including the base surface 302. In some embodiments, the first sidewall 202, the second sidewall 204, the third sidewall 206, and the fourth sidewall 208 each extend from the base surface 302 toward the top opening 210. At least one of the first sidewall 202, the second sidewall 204, the third sidewall 206, and the fourth sidewall 208 may be coupled to the base surface 302.
[0060] In some embodiments, the first sidewall 202, the second sidewall 204, the third sidewall 206, and the fourth sidewall 208 are machined panels welded to the base surface 302. As previously mentioned, the panels may be made of polycarbonate or fiberglass covered in a nonslip polyurethane material. In some embodiments, the container 10 is formed from single-piece construction. For example, each of the base surface 302, the first sidewall 202, the second sidewall 204, the third sidewall 206, and the fourth sidewall 208 may be made of individual panels covered in a single piece of material, then folded and formed into the finished form and shape of the container 10. It should be noted that the construction of the container 10 is not limited to the exact materials listed in this disclosure.
[0061] In some embodiments, the first sidewall 202 includes a first end 306 and a second end 308 located opposite the first end 306. Similarly, the second sidewall 204 may include a first end 310 and a second end 312 located opposite the first end 310. The first end 306 of the first sidewall 202 may be substantially aligned with the first end 310 of the second sidewall 204. Similarly, the second end 308 of the first sidewall 202 may be substantially aligned with the second end 312 of the second sidewall 204.
[0062] In some embodiments, the first end 306 of the first sidewall 202 and the first end 310 of the second sidewall 204 are located adjacent to the third sidewall 206. The third sidewall 206 may be located and extend between the first end 306 of the first sidewall 202 and the first end 310 of the second sidewall 204. In some embodiments, the second end 308 of the first sidewall 202 and the second end 312 of the second sidewall 204 are located adjacent to the fourth sidewall 208. The fourth sidewall 208 may be located and extend between the second end 308 of the first sidewall 202 and the second end 312 of the second sidewall 204.
[0063] In some embodiments, the third sidewall 206 and the fourth sidewall 208 extend beyond the respective ends of the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204. Stated differently, the width of the third sidewall 206 and the fourth sidewall 208 may be greater than the distance between the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204. In addition, the height of the thirdPCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT sidewall 206 and the fourth sidewall 208 may be greater than that of the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204. Stated another way, the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204 may be thought of as inset with respect to the third sidewall 206 and the fourth sidewall 208.
[0064] Accordingly, the first end 306 of the first sidewall 202 and the first end 310 of the second sidewall 204 may not perfectly align with the edges of the third sidewall 206. Similarly, the second end 308 of the first sidewall 202 and the second end 312 of the second sidewall 204 may not perfectly align with the edges of the fourth sidewall 208. This intentional misalignment may allow room for a flap 304, discussed in greater detail below, to fit along the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204 within the confines of the third sidewall 206 and the fourth sidewall 208 to form a substantially flush surface with the third sidewall 206 and the fourth sidewall 208 (for example, a top (or outer) surface of the flap may be flush with a top edge of the third sidewall 206 and / or the fourth sidewall 208), when the flap is disposed over the opening).
[0065] Also illustrated in FIG. 3 is the flap 304 coupled to the first sidewall 202. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the flap 304 is coupled to at least a portion of the first sidewall 202. At least a portion of the flap 304 may be fixedly coupled to the first sidewall 202. For example, at least a portion of the flap 304 may be bonded to the first sidewall 202 via adhesive, welding, or any suitable form of fixed coupling. In some embodiments, the flap 304 is configured to at least partially cover the top opening 210 when the container 10 is in the closed position 402, as illustrated in FIG. 4. At least a portion of the flap 304 may be configured to detachably couple to at least a portion of the second sidewall 204 when the container 10 is in the closed position 402. The detachable coupling between the flap 304 and the second sidewall 204 may be made through a number of means including, but not limited to, hook-and- loop fastener, at least one snap, at least one button, and / or at least one magnet.
[0066] In some embodiments, the flap 304 includes a first section 404, as shown in FIG. 4. The first section 404 of the flap 304 may include a first sub-section 406 and a second sub-section 408. It should be noted that though the first sub-section 406 and the second sub-section 408 may be substantially the same size, as illustrated in FIG. 4, they are not limited to this embodiment. For example, the first sub-section 406 may define roughly 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 95% of the first section 404, while the second sub-section 408 defines roughly 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the first section 404. The inverse may also be true, where the second subsection 408 is larger than the first sub-section 406. The percentages cited herein are used as examples only and are not intended to limit the disclosure.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT
[0067] In some embodiments, at least one of the first sub-section 406 and the second subsection 408 is configured to couple to the first sidewall 202. At least one of the first sub-section 406 and the second sub-section 408 may removably couple to the first sidewall 202, such as via hook-and-loop fastener, magnetic coupling, or any number of removable coupling methods.
[0068] In some embodiments, as discussed above, at least one of the first sub-section 406 and the second sub-section 408 is fixedly coupled to the first sidewall 202, such as via an adhesive or similar bond. For example, the first sub-section 406 may be fixedly coupled to the first sidewall 202, but the second sub-section 408 may be configured to move (e.g., pivot, flex, fold, bend, or the like) with respect to the first sub-section 406, so as to move the container 10 between the open position 104 and the closed position 402. In some embodiments, both the first sub-section 406 and the second sub-section 408 are configured to move (e.g., pivot, flex, fold, bend, or the like) with respect to the first sidewall 20 to move the container 10 between the open position 104 and the closed position 402.
[0069] The flap 304 may also include a second section 502, as shown in FIG. 5. When the container 10 is in the closed position 402, the second section 502 of the flap 304 may be configured to extend across the top opening 210 such that the second section 502 substantially covers the top opening 210. In some embodiments, the second section 502 is configured to move (e.g., pivot, flex, fold, bend, or the like) with respect to the first section 404 to move the container 10 between the open position 104 and the closed position 402. In some embodiments, the second section 502 extends from the first section 404 (e.g., the second section 502 extends from the second sub-section 408).
[0070] Similar to the sidewalls 202, 204, 206, 208, the flap 304 may be made of individual panels. For example, the panels may be made of polycarbonate or fiberglass covered in a nonslip polyurethane material. In some embodiments, the flap 304 is formed from single-piece construction. For example, each of the first sub-section 406 of the first section 404, the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404, and the second section 502 may be made of individual panels covered in a single piece of material, thereby forming a single component of the container 10. The construction of the flap 304 will be discussed in greater detail with reference to FIG. 7.
[0071] The flap 304 may also include a third section 602, as illustrated in FIG. 6, at least a portion of which may be configured to removably couple to a portion of the second sidewall 204. In some embodiments, the third section 602 includes a first sub-section 604, and a second sub-section 606. At least one of the first sub-section 604 and the second sub-section 606 may be configured to removably couple to the second sidewall 204. In some embodiments, at leastPCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT one of the first sub-section 604 and the second sub-section 606 is configured to magnetically couple to the second sidewall 204. At least one of the first sub-section 604 and the second subsection 606 may be configured to removably couple to a portion of the second sidewall 204 via another mechanism, such as hook-and-loop fastener, at least one snap, at least one button, or any suitable mechanism.
[0072] It should be noted that though the first sub-section 604 is illustrated in FIG. 6 as smaller than the second sub-section 606, they are not limited to this embodiment. For example, the first sub-section 604 may define roughly 10%, 20%, 30%, or 40% of the third section 602, while the second sub-section 606 defines roughly 90%, 80%, 70%, or 60% of the third section 602. The inverse may also be true, where the first sub-section 604 is larger than the second subsection 606. The first sub-section 604 and the second sub-section 606 may define roughly the same size. The percentages cited herein are used as examples only and are not intended to limit the disclosure.
[0073] The first sub-section 604 may be configured to move (e.g., pivot, flex, fold, bend, or the like) with respect to the second sub-section 606. In some embodiments, the third section 602 of the flap 304 is configured to move (e.g., pivot, flex, fold, bend, or the like) with respect to the second section 502 of the flap 304 to move the container 10 between the open position 104 and the closed position 402. More specifically, the second sub-section 606 of the third section 602 may be configured to move (e.g., pivot, flex, fold, bend, or the like) with respect to the second section 502 of the flap 304 to move the container 10 between the open position 104 and the closed position 402. In some embodiments, the third section 602 extends from the second section 502 (e.g., the second sub-section 606 extends from the second section 502).
[0074] FIG. 7 illustrates the flap 304 laid out in a flat configuration, including the first section 404, the second section 502, and the third section 602. The flap 304 may be thought of as a segmented flap 304, or a flap 304 made up of many segments, for example, the various sections and sub-sections. Also shown in FIG. 7 are the sub-sections, namely the first sub-section 406 of the first section 404, the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404, the first sub-section 604 of the third section 602, and the second sub-section 606 of the third section 602. As discussed above, the various sections and sub-sections of the flap 304 may be configured to move (e.g., pivot, flex, fold, bend, or the like) with respect to one another. In some embodiments, this ability to move is due to the flexible portions located between each section and sub-section.
[0075] Each of the first sub-section 406 of the first section 404, the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404, the second section 502, the second sub-section 606 of the third sectionPCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT602, and the first sub-section 604 of the third section 602 may be made of individual panels covered in a single piece of material, with narrow spaces between each panel. These narrow spaces are formed by the panel overlay material, such as microfiber or polyurethane leather, and thus are flexible rather than rigid, like the panels themselves.
[0076] In some embodiments, the flap 304 includes a first flexible portion 702 located between the first sub-section 406 and the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404. The first flexible portion 702 may enable movement of the second sub-section 408 with respect to the first sub-section 406, and vice versa. In some embodiments, the flap 304 includes a second flexible portion 704 located between the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404 and the second section 502. The second flexible portion may enable movement of the second section 502 with respect to the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404, and vice versa.
[0077] In some embodiments, the flap 304 includes a third flexible portion 706 located between the second section 502 and the second sub-section 606 of the third section 602. The third flexible portion 706 may enable movement of the second sub-section 606 of the third section 602 with respect to the second section 502, and vice versa. In some embodiments, the flap 304 includes a fourth flexible portion 708 located between the second sub-section 606 of the third section 602 and the first sub-section 604 of the third section 602. The fourth flexible portion 708 may enable movement of the first sub-section 604 with respect to the second subsection 606, and vice versa.
[0078] In some embodiments, the container 10 includes at least one magnet 802, as shown in FIG. 8. The at least one magnet 802 may be located in at least one of the first sidewall 202, the second sidewall 204, the first section 404 of the flap 304, and the third section 602 of the flap 304. In some embodiments, the at least one magnet 802 is configured to couple the flap 304 to the container 10 when the container 10 is in the closed position 402. For example, the at least one magnet 802 located within the first section 404 of the flap 304 may couple to the at least one magnet 802 located within the first sidewall 202, as illustrated in FIG. 8. Accordingly, it is understood that the at least one magnet 802 located within the first section 404 of the flap 304 and the at least one magnet 802 located within the first sidewall 202 may be arranged such that the magnetic polarities are opposite, thus attracting the at least one magnet 802 in the first section 404 to the at least one magnet 802 in the first sidewall 202.
[0079] Further, the at least one magnet 802 may be used to couple the first sub-section 406 of the first section 404 to the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404. In some embodiments, the second sub-section 408 is configured to fold down, via the first flexible portion 702, and substantially cover the first sub-section 406. This folded orientation will bePCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT discussed further with reference to FIGS. 12-15. Accordingly, it is understood that the at least one magnet 802 located within the first sub-section 406 of the first section 404 and the at least one magnet 802 located within the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404 may be arranged such that the magnetic polarities are opposite, thus attracting the at least one magnet 802 in the first sub-section 406 to the at least one magnet 802 in the second sub-section 408.
[0080] The at least one magnet 802 located within the third section 602 of the flap 304 may be configured to couple to the at least one magnet 802 located within the second sidewall 204, as shown in FIG. 9, thereby maintaining the closed position 402 of the container 10. Accordingly, it is understood that the at least one magnet 802 located within the third section 602 of the flap 304 and the at least one magnet 802 located within the second sidewall 204 may be arranged such that the magnetic polarities are opposite, thus attracting the at least one magnet 802 in the third section 602 to the at least one magnet 802 in the second sidewall 204.
[0081] In some embodiments, the at least one magnet 802 includes four magnets located on the first sub-section 406 of the first section 404 of the flap 304. The at least one magnet 802 may include four magnets located on the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404 of the flap 304. The at least one magnet 802 may include two magnets located on the first sidewall 202. In addition, the at least one magnet 802 may include four magnets located on the first subsection 604 of the third section 602 of the flap 304. The at least one magnet 802 may include four magnets located on the second sub-section 606 of the third section 602 of the flap 304. In some embodiments, the at least one magnet 802 includes two magnets located on the second sidewall 204.
[0082] It should be noted that these quantities are included as non-limiting examples. The at least one magnet 802 may include more or fewer magnets than indicated in the accompanying figures. In addition, it should be noted that the at least one magnet 802 may be located “on” or at least partially within the first sidewall 202, the second sidewall 204, the first section 404 of the flap 304, and / or the third section 602 of the flap 304. The at least one magnet 802 may be fixedly coupled to the first sidewall 202, the second sidewall 204, the first section 404 of the flap 304, and / or the third section 602 of the flap 304, for example, via an adhesive. The at least one magnet 802 may be coupled to an interior portion of the aforementioned components. For example, in some embodiments, the at least one magnet 802 is coupled to the polycarbonate or fiberglass panel and is located beneath the material covering the panels. The at least one magnet 802 may be coupled to an exterior portion of any component, such as along the outer covering material. The at least one magnet 802 may include a neodymium magnet.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT
[0083] In some embodiments, the container 10 is configured to magnetically couple, via the at least one magnet 802, to a secondary device 1002, as shown in FIG. 10. Accordingly, the at least one magnet 802 may serve to couple the flap 304 to the container 10 in the closed position 402, and also may also serve to couple the container 10 to a secondary device 1002. The secondary device 1002 may be another container 10, as illustrated in FIG. 10. In some embodiments, the secondary device 1002 is another device, such as a playmat container, as illustrated in FIG. 11. As also shown in FIG. 11, the container 10 may be configured to couple to more than one secondary device 1002. The secondary device 1002 may be a different device such as, but not limited to, one or more of a deckbox, a dice box, a playmat, or the like. In some embodiments, the container 10 is configured to couple to a secondary device 1002 along both the first section 404 and the third section 602 of the flap 304 when the container 10 is in the closed position 402. When the container 10 is in an open position 104, the secondary device 1002 may be configured to couple along both the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204.
[0084] FIGS. 12 and 13 show end views of the container 10, and illustrate a configuration of the flap 304 when the container 10 is in the open position 104. The third section 602 of the flap 304 may be configured to magnetically couple to at least a portion of the first sidewall 202. In some embodiments, when the container 10 is in the open position 104, the third section 602 of the flap 304 is configured to magnetically couple to the first section 404 of the flap 304. More specifically, as demonstrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, the first sub-section 604 of the third section 602 may be configured to couple to the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404. Accordingly, it is understood that the at least one magnet 802 located within the first subsection 604 of the third section 602 and the at least one magnet 802 located within the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404 may be arranged such that the magnetic polarities are opposite, thus attracting the at least one magnet 802 in the first sub-section 604 of the third section 602 to the at least one magnet 802 in the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404.
[0085] This configuration may be enabled by the movable (i.e., foldable, bendable, pivoting, or the like) nature of the different sections of the flap 304, by virtue of the flexible portions 704, 706, 708. As previously stated, the second section 502 of the flap 304 may be configured to move with respect to the first section 404 of the flap 304, via the second flexible portion 704, and vice versa. Similarly, the second section 502 of the flap 304 may be configured to move with respect to the third section 602 of the flap 304, via the third flexible portion 706, and vice versa. In addition, the sub-sections of the first section 404 may be configured to movePCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT with respect to one another, via the first flexible portion 702, and the sub-sections of the third section 602 may be configured to move with respect to one another, via the fourth flexible portion 708.
[0086] For example, the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404 may be configured to fold down over, and couple to, the first sub-section 406, thereby revealing the top of the first sidewall 202, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. The third section 602 of the flap 304 may then be moved into the position illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, where the second sub-section 606 extends toward the first sidewall 202 and the first sub-section 604 is folded down with respect to the second sub-section 606 and couples to the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404, thereby securing the flap 304 to itself. In this way, the first sub-section 604 of the third section 602 is coupled to both the first sub-section 406 and the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404. This position may result in a substantially triangular shape of the flap 304, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. The “docked” position of the flap 304, when coupled to itself, may help keep the flap 304 out of the way when the container 10 is in use in the open position 104.
[0087] FIGS. 14 and 15 show additional views of the container 10 in the open position 104, with the flap 304 docked (i.e., coupled to itself). FIG. 14 shows a perspective view including the receiving portion 102, and FIG. 15 shows a perspective view including the base surface 302. It should be noted that the substantially triangular shape of the flap 304 in the docked position may be caused by the elongate rectangular shapes of each section and sub-section of the flap 304. In some embodiments, the sections and sub-sections of the flap 304 define different shapes and / or sizes, resulting in a different overall shape of the flap 304 in the docked position. The flap 304 may also include more sections and / or sub-sections than disclosed here, which may result in a rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, nonagonal, decagonal, or approximately circular shape of the flap 304 in the docked position.
[0088] FIG. 16 illustrates that, in some embodiments, the flap 304 is configured to lie flat when the container 10 is in the open position 104, and is not required to be placed in the docked position shown in FIGS. 12-15. As shown in FIG. 16, even when the flap 304 is laid out flat, the second sub-section 408 of the first section 404 may be configured to fold over and couple to the first sub-section 406 of the first section 404. In some embodiments, the first sub-section 406 is bonded to the first sidewall 202, and is not configured to move with respect to the first sidewall 202 or the rest of the flap 304. The second sub-section 408 may be configured to move, via the first flexible portion 702, with respect to the first sub-section 406 to achieve a number of configurations, such as docked or laid flat.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT
[0089] In some embodiments, the container 10 includes a groove 1702 extending along the second sidewall 204, as illustrated in FIG. 17. The groove 1702 may be located adjacent to the base surface 302, such that when the container 10 is in the closed position 402, the groove 1702 is located between the third section 602 of the flap 304 and the base surface 302. More specifically, the groove 1702 may be located between the first sub-section 604 of the third section 602 and the base surface 302. In some embodiments, the groove 1702 extends along substantially an entire length of the second sidewall 204. The groove 1702 may extend along only a portion of the second sidewall 204. Rather than a long groove, the groove 1702 may include one or multiple short segments extending along the second sidewall 204.
[0090] In some embodiments, the groove 1702 defines an indentation 1704 in the second sidewall 204 configured to receive a user’s finger to lift the third section 602 of the flap 304. The third section 602 may include at least one rounded comer. In some embodiments, the third section 602 is lifted along a rounded comer or edge adjacent to the groove 1702. Lifting the third section 602 of the flap 304 may include interrupting the magnetic coupling between the third section 602 and the second sidewall 204, thereby decoupling the flap 304 from the second sidewall 204. Once the third section 602 is no longer coupled to the second sidewall 204, the user can then move the container 10 from the closed position 402 to the open position 104.
[0091] FIG. 18 illustrates the container 10 in the open position 104. As discussed with reference to FIG. 3, the third sidewall 206 and the fourth sidewall 208 may extend beyond the respective ends of the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204, such that the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204 may be thought of as inset with respect to the third sidewall 206 and the fourth sidewall 208. This inset nature of the second sidewall 204 may create the indentation 1704 / groove 1702. Accordingly, it may be understood that the groove 1702 extends from just above the base surface 302 to a top portion of the second sidewall 204, as can be seen in FIG. 18.
[0092] It should be noted that the container 10 may include no groove 1702. Instead, a user may lift the third section 602 of the flap 304 along an edge or corner without the aid of the groove 1702 in the second sidewall 204. In some embodiments, the third section 602 includes a handle, strap, or similar protrusion to allow a user to lift the flap 304.
[0093] FIG. 19 shows a view of the container 10, including the first sidewall 202. In some embodiments, the first sidewall 202 includes a first end section 1902, a second end section 1904 located opposite the first end section 1902, and a middle section 1906 extending between the first end section 1902 and the second end section 1904. The first end section 1902 may bePCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT located adjacent to the third sidewall 206, and the second end section 1904 may be located adjacent to the fourth sidewall 208.
[0094] In some embodiments, the first end section 1902 and the second end section 1904 both define a first height 1908. The middle section 1906 may define a second height 1910. In some embodiments, the second height 1910 is less than the first height 1908, as shown in FIG. 19. The second height 1910 may be greater than the first height 1908. In some embodiments, the first height 1908 is about 108 millimeters. The second height 1910 may be about 73 millimeters. The first height 1908 may range from about 54 millimeters to about 162 millimeters. The second height 1910 may range from about 36 millimeters to about 110 millimeters.
[0095] In some embodiments, the middle section 1906 extends along substantially the majority of the length 1912 of the first sidewall 202. The middle section 1906 may extend along less than the majority of the length 1912 of the first sidewall 202. In some embodiments, the length 1912 of the first sidewall 202 is about 380 millimeters, and can range from about 190 millimeters to about 570 millimeters. The length of the middle section 1906 may be about 335 millimeters, and may range from about 167 millimeters to about 503 millimeters. Accordingly, the first end section 1902 and the second end section 1904 may each define a length of about 22 millimeters, and may range from about 11 millimeters to about 33 millimeters.
[0096] FIG. 20 shows a view of the container 10, including the second sidewall 204. In some embodiments, the second sidewall 204 includes a first end section 2002, a second end section 2004 located opposite the first end section 2002, and a middle section 2006 extending between the first end section 2002 and the second end section 2004. The first end section 2002 may be located adjacent to the third sidewall 206, and the second end section 2004 may be located adjacent to the fourth sidewall 208.
[0097] In some embodiments, the first end section 2002 and the second end section 2004 both define a first height 2008. The middle section 2006 may define a second height 2010. In some embodiments, the second height 2010 is less than the first height 2008, as shown in FIG. 20. The second height 2010 may be greater than the first height 2008. In some embodiments, the first height 2008 is about 108 millimeters. The second height 2010 may be about 73 millimeters. The first height 2008 may range from about 54 millimeters to about 162 millimeters. The second height 2010 may range from about 36 millimeters to about 110 millimeters.
[0098] In some embodiments, the middle section 2006 extends along substantially the majority of the length 2012 of the second sidewall 204. The middle section 2006 may extend along lessPCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT than the majority of the length 2012 of the second sidewall 204. In some embodiments, the length 2012 of the second sidewall 204 is about 380 millimeters, and can range from about 190 millimeters to about 570 millimeters. The length of the middle section 2006 may be about 335 millimeters, and may range from about 167 millimeters to about 503 millimeters. Accordingly, the first end section 2002 and the second end section 2004 may each define a length of about 22 millimeters, and may range from about 11 millimeters to about 33 millimeters.
[0099] In some embodiments, the first end section 1902 of the first sidewall 202 is substantially aligned with the first end section 2002 of the second sidewall 204. Similarly, the second end section 1904 of the first sidewall 202 may be substantially aligned with the second end section 2004 of the second sidewall 204. Further, the middle section 1906 of the first sidewall 202 may substantially align with the middle section 2006 of the second sidewall 204.
[0100] The middle sections 1906, 2006, may be shorter than the end sections 1902, 1904, 2002, 2004 to facilitate easy access to the at least one item 20 within the container 10. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the at least one item 20 may define a height less than the end sections 1902, 1904, 2002, 2004, so having shorter middle sections 1906, 2006, may make it easier for a user to insert and / or remove the at least one item 20. The end sections 1902, 1904, 2002, 2004 may define greater heights to provide a suitable place for the flap 304 to rest along the top of the container 10 without directly contacting the at least one item 20. The taller end sections 1902, 1904, 2002, 2004 may also provide greater stability to the container 10.
[0101] FIG. 21 shows the third sidewall 206 of the container 10, including the handle 212. In some embodiments, the handle 212 is coupled to the third sidewall 206. The handle 212 may extend through at least one opening 2102 in the third sidewall 206, as illustrated in FIG. 21. In some embodiments, the handle 212 is coupled to the container 10 within an interior portion of the container 10, and a portion of the handle 212 extends through the at least one opening 2102. The handle 212 may be coupled to an exterior portion of the third sidewall 206. In some embodiments, the handle 212 is coupled between an interior portion and an exterior portion of the third sidewall 206, such that at least a portion of the handle 212 is coupled within the third sidewall 206. The handle 212 may define a loop shape, with a portion of the loop coupled to the third sidewall 206. In some embodiments, the handle 212 defines discrete ends that are coupled to the third sidewall 206.
[0102] FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of the container 10. In some embodiments, the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204 each define a first length 2202. The third sidewall 206 and the fourth sidewall 208 may each define a second length 2204. In some embodiments, the first length 2202 is greater than the second length 2204, giving the container 10 an elongatedPCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT shape. For example, the first length 2202 may be about 380 millimeters, and the second length 2204 may be about 95 millimeters. The first length 2202 may range from about 190 millimeters to about 570 millimeters. The second length 2204 may range from about 47 millimeters to about 143 millimeters. Overall, the container 10 may define a rectangular elongated shape 2206, and a substantially rectangular cross-section.
[0103] The container 10 may be constructed of a number of suitable materials. For example, in some embodiments, a combination of polyurethane leather, microfiber, polycarbonate sheets, and fiberglass sheets is used to construct the container 10. The container 10 may include polycarbonate and / or fiberglass sheets covered with polyurethane leather. The container 10 may include an outer sleeve or carrying case in addition to, or instead of, the flap 304.
[0104] Some of the components listed herein use the same number from figure to figure. It should be appreciated these components use the same numbers solely for ease of reference and to facilitate comprehension for the reader. While these components may use the same numbers, differences may be present in these components as illustrated in the various figures in which they appear and as described in the specification herein.
[0105] None of the steps described herein is essential or indispensable. Any of the steps can be adjusted or modified. Other or additional steps can be used. Any portion of any of the steps, processes, structures, and / or devices disclosed or illustrated in one embodiment, flowchart, or example in this specification can be combined or used with or instead of any other portion of any of the steps, processes, structures, and / or devices disclosed or illustrated in a different embodiment, flowchart, or example. The embodiments and examples provided herein are not intended to be discrete and separate from each other.
[0106] The section headings and subheadings provided herein are nonlimiting. The section headings and subheadings do not represent or limit the full scope of the embodiments described in the sections to which the headings and subheadings pertain. For example, a section titled “Topic 1” may include embodiments that do not pertain to Topic 1 and embodiments described in other sections may apply to and be combined with embodiments described within the “Topic 1” section.
[0107] The various features and processes described above may be used independently of one another, or may be combined in various ways. All possible combinations and subcombinations are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure. In addition, certain method, event, state, or process blocks may be omitted in some implementations. The methods, steps, and processes described herein are also not limited to any particular sequence, and the blocks, steps, or states relating thereto can be performed in other sequences that are appropriate. For example,PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT described tasks or events may be performed in an order other than the order specifically disclosed. Multiple steps may be combined in a single block or state. The example tasks or events may be performed in serial, in parallel, or in some other manner. Tasks or events may be added to or removed from the disclosed example embodiments. The example systems and components described herein may be configured differently than described. For example, elements may be added to, removed from, or rearranged compared to the disclosed example embodiments.
[0108] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "could," "might," "may," “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and / or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements and / or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations and so forth. 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, or 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.
[0109] The term “and / or” means that “and” applies to some embodiments and “or” applies to some embodiments. Thus, A, B, and / or C can be replaced with A, B, and C written in one sentence and A, B, or C written in another sentence. A, B, and / or C means that some embodiments can include A and B, some embodiments can include A and C, some embodiments can include B and C, some embodiments can only include A, some embodiments can include only B, some embodiments can include only C, and some embodiments can include A, B, and C. The term “and / or” is used to avoid unnecessary redundancy.
[0110] The term “adjacent” is used to mean “next to” to “adjoining.” For example, the disclosure includes “. . .the first end section of the first sidewall is located adjacent to the thirdPCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT sidewall.” In this context, “adjacent to the third sidewall” means that the first end section of the first sidewall may be next to or adjoining the third sidewall.[oni] The term “substantially” is used to mean “completely” or “nearly completely.” For example, the disclosure includes, “The first end section of the first sidewall may be substantially aligned with the first end section of the second sidewall.” In this context, “substantially aligned with” means that the first end sections of the first and second sidewalls are completely or nearly completely aligned. However, the sections do not have to be perfectly aligned to fall into the understanding of “substantially aligned” as defined in this disclosure.
[0112] While certain example embodiments have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions disclosed herein. Thus, nothing in the foregoing description is intended to imply that any particular feature, characteristic, step, module, or block is necessary or indispensable. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the inventions disclosed herein.
Claims
PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCTCLAIMSI claim:
1. A container, comprising: a receiving portion defining: a base surface; a first sidewall; a second sidewall; a third sidewall; a fourth sidewall; and a top opening; a flap coupled to the first sidewall and configured to at least partially cover the top opening, the flap configured to magnetically couple to the second sidewall; and a handle coupled to the third sidewall, the handle configured to enable a user to carry the container.
2. The container of Claim 1, wherein the first sidewall extends from the base surface and the second sidewall extends from the base surface and is located opposite the first sidewall.
3. The container of Claim 2, wherein the third sidewall extends from the base surface and is positioned substantially perpendicular to the first sidewall and the second sidewall, wherein the third sidewall is located adjacent to a first end of the first sidewall and a first end of the second sidewall.
4. The container of Claim 3, wherein the fourth sidewall extends from the base surface and is positioned substantially perpendicular to the first sidewall and the second sidewall, wherein the fourth sidewall is located adjacent to a second end of the first sidewall and a second end of the second sidewall.
5. The container of Claim 4, wherein the first end of the first sidewall is located opposite the second end of the first sidewall and the first end of the second sidewall is located opposite the second end of the second sidewall.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT6. The container of Claim 1, wherein the top opening is located opposite the base surface and is defined by the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the third sidewall, and the fourth sidewall.
7. The container of Claim 1, wherein the flap comprises a first section, a second section, and a third section, wherein the second section is located between the first section and the third section.
8. The container of Claim 7, wherein the first section of the flap is coupled to the first sidewall.
9. The container of Claim 7, wherein the first section of the flap comprises a first subsection and a second sub-section.
10. The container of Claim 9, wherein at least one of the first sub-section of the first section of the flap and the second sub-section of the first section of the flap is coupled to the first sidewall.
11. The container of Claim 9, wherein the first sub-section of the first section of the flap is configured to move with respect to the second sub-section of the first section of the flap.
12. The container of Claim 7, wherein the third section of the flap comprises a first subsection and a second sub-section.
13. The container of Claim 12, wherein at least one of the first sub-section of the third section of the flap and the second sub-section of the third section of the flap is configured to couple to the second sidewall.
14. The container of Claim 12, wherein the first sub-section of the third section of the flap is configured to move with respect to the second sub-section of the third section of the flap.
15. The container of Claim 7, further comprising at least one magnet located within at least one of the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first section of the flap, and the third section of the flap.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT16. The container of Claim 15, wherein when the container is in a closed position, the second section of the flap at least partially covers the top opening, and the third section of the flap is magnetically coupled to the second sidewall.
17. The container of Claim 16, further comprising a groove extending along the second sidewall.
18. The container of Claim 17, wherein the groove is at least partially located adjacent to the base surface, such that when the container is in the closed position, the groove is located between the third section of the flap and the base surface.
19. The container of Claim 18, wherein the groove is configured to receive a user’s finger to enable the user to lift the third section of the flap away from the second sidewall.
20. The container of Claim 17, wherein the groove comprises an indentation in the second sidewall.
21. The container of Claim 17, wherein the groove extends along substantially an entire length of the second sidewall.
22. The container of Claim 17, wherein the groove extends along a portion of a length of the second sidewall.
23. The container of Claim 15, wherein when the container is in an open position, the third section of the flap is configured to magnetically couple to the first section of the flap.
24. The container of Claim 15, wherein when the container is in an open position, at least a portion of the third section of the flap is configured to magnetically couple to at least a portion of the first section of the flap.
25. The container of Claim 15, wherein when the container is in an open position, the third section of the flap is configured to magnetically couple to the first sidewall.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT26. The container of Claim 15, wherein when the container is in an open position, at least a portion of the third section of the flap is configured to magnetically couple to at least a portion of the first sidewall.
27. The container of Claim 15, wherein the container is configured to magnetically couple to at least one secondary device.
28. The container of Claim 27, wherein the container comprises a first container and the at least one secondary device comprises a device selected from the group consisting of a dice box, a deckbox, a second container, a playmat, and combinations thereof.
29. The container of Claim 1, wherein the receiving portion is configured to receive at least one item.
30. The container of Claim 29, wherein the at least one item is selected from the group consisting of a playing card, a plurality of playing cards, a deckbox, a plurality of deckboxes, and combinations thereof.
31. The container of Claim 1, wherein the first sidewall comprises a first end section, a second end section located opposite the first end section, and a middle section located between the first end section and the second end section.
32. The container of claim 31, wherein the first end section of the first sidewall is located adjacent to the third sidewall and the second end section of the first sidewall is located adjacent to the fourth sidewall.
33. The container of Claim 32, wherein the first end section of the first sidewall and the second end section of the first sidewall each define a first height, and the middle section of the first sidewall defines a second height.
34. The container of Claim 33, wherein the second height of the middle section of the first sidewall is less than the first height of the first end section and the second end section of the first sidewall.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT35. The container of Claim 31, wherein the middle section of the first sidewall extends along substantially a majority of a length of the first sidewall.
36. The container of Claim 31, wherein the second sidewall comprises a first end section, a second end section located opposite the first end section, and a middle section located between the first end section and the second end section.
37. The container of Claim 36, wherein the first end section of the second sidewall is located adjacent to the third sidewall and the second end section of the second sidewall is located adjacent to the fourth sidewall.
38. The container of Claim 37, wherein the first end section of the second sidewall and the second end section of the second sidewall each define a first height, and the middle section of the second sidewall defines a second height.
39. The container of Claim 38, wherein the second height of the middle section of the second sidewall is less than the first height of the first end section and the second end section of the second sidewall.
40. The container of Claim 36, wherein the middle section of the second sidewall extends along substantially a majority of a length of the second sidewall.
41. The container of Claim 36, wherein the first end section of the first sidewall is substantially aligned with the first end section of the second sidewall, wherein the second end section of the first sidewall is substantially aligned with the second end section of the second sidewall, and wherein the middle section of the first sidewall is substantially aligned with the middle section of the second sidewall.
42. The container of Claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the handle is configured to extend through at least one opening in the third sidewall.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT43. The container of Claim 42, wherein the third sidewall comprises an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein at least a portion of the handle is coupled to the third sidewall between the outer surface and the inner surface.
44. The container of Claim 1, wherein the container comprises a molded shell comprising the base surface, the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the third sidewall, and the fourth sidewall.
45. The container of Claim 1, wherein the container defines a substantially rectangular cross-section.
46. The container of Claim 45, wherein the first sidewall and the second sidewall define a first length, and the third sidewall and the fourth sidewall define a second length that is different from the first length.
47. The container of Claim 46, wherein the first length is greater than the second length.
48. The container of Claim 47, wherein the container defines a rectangular elongated shape.
49. A container, comprising: a base surface; a top opening located opposite the base surface; a first sidewall extending from the base surface; a second sidewall extending from the base surface and located opposite the first sidewall; a third sidewall extending from the base surface and located adjacent to the first sidewall and the second sidewall; a fourth sidewall extending from the base surface and located opposite the third sidewall; a receiving portion defined by the base surface, the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the third sidewall, and the fourth sidewall; a flap coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall and configured to at least partially cover the top opening; andPCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT a handle coupled to the third sidewall, the handle configured to enable a user to carry the container.
50. The container of Claim 49, wherein the flap is fixedly coupled to the first sidewall and removably coupled to the second sidewall.
51. The container of Claim 50, wherein the flap is configured to be magnetically coupled to the second sidewall via at least one magnet located within the second sidewall and at least one magnet located within the flap.
52. The container of Claim 49, wherein the flap comprises a first section, a second section, and a third section, wherein the second section is located between the first section and the third section.
53. The container of Claim 52, wherein the first section is coupled to the first sidewall, the second section is configured to extend at least partially over the top opening, and the third section is configured to magnetically couple to the second sidewall.
54. The container of Claim 52, wherein the first section of the flap comprises a first subsection, a second sub-section, and a first flexible portion located between the first sub-section of the first section of the flap and the second sub-section of the first section of the flap.
55. The container of Claim 54, wherein the first flexible portion is configured to enable movement of the second sub-section of the first section of the flap with respect to the first subsection of the first section of the flap.
56. The container of Claim 54, wherein the flap further comprises a second flexible portion located between the second sub-section of the first section of the flap and the second section of the flap, the second flexible portion configured to enable movement of the second section of the flap with respect to the second sub-section of the first section of the flap.
57. The container of Claim 56, wherein the third section of the flap comprises a first subsection and a second sub-section, wherein the second sub-section of the third section of the flap is located adjacent to the second section of the flap.PCT APPLICATION DOCKET NO. HEAVYPLAY-023PCT58. The container of Claim 57, wherein the flap further comprises a third flexible portion located between the second section of the flap and the second sub-section of the third section of the flap, the third flexible portion configured to enable movement of the second sub-section of the third section of the flap with respect to the second section of the flap.
59. The container of Claim 58, wherein the flap further comprises a fourth flexible portion located between the second sub-section of the third section of the flap and the first sub-section of the third section of the flap, the fourth flexible portion configured to enable movement of the first sub-section of the third section of the flap with respect to the second sub-section of the third section of the flap.
60. The container of Claim 49, wherein the receiving portion is configured to receive at least one item.
61. The container of Claim 60, wherein the at least one item is selected from the group consisting of a playing card, a plurality of playing cards, a deckbox, a plurality of deckboxes, and combinations thereof.
62. The container of any one of Claims 1-61, wherein the container is configured to secure one or more items disposed within the receiving portion, when the container is in the closed position.
63. The container of Claim 62, wherein the one or more items is secured within the receiving portion when the container is held in a vertical orientation, a horizontal orientation, or both.