MEAL KIT DELIVERY CONTAINER

A container for delivering ingredients of a meal kit to a consumer. The container comprises a main container and one or more cups removably locatable within the main container. The one or more cups may vary in size and shape. Various combinations of cups of different sizes and shapes can be located in the main container. In spite of the various sizes and shapes of cups that may be located in the main container, a lid may be provided that seals the main container and each of the one or more cups that are located within the main container for different selections and arrangements of the cups. In some embodiments, each of the one or more cups is supported above a base surface of the main container to create a space between the one or more cups and the base surface of the main container.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to containers for storing and transporting food. Particular embodiments provide containers for meal kit delivery services.

BACKGROUND

Meal kit delivery services deliver ingredients and corresponding recipes directly to consumers. Such ingredients may be pre-measured, pre-cut and/or pre-washed to save consumers' time and encourage consumers to cook. Consumers of meal kit delivery services do not need to purchase ingredients from a grocery store, do not need to worry about having too much or too little of any one ingredient and are encouraged to try new recipes.

Typically, each ingredient in a meal kit is individually packaged to ensure freshness. Often, such packaging is not recyclable or reusable. Even if such packaging is recyclable, it may not be properly recycled by consumers for various reasons. As such, many meal kits lead to undesirable waste and may be harmful for the environment.

There have been various attempts to employ reusable packaging for meal and meal kit delivery services. However, such packaging does not easily accommodate the variations in packaging needs (e.g. size, shape and number of ingredients) of the many different recipes that meal kit delivery services provide. Further, such packaging does not provide a sufficient seal for liquid ingredients.

There is a general desire for a compact, re-usable (and/or recyclable) meal kit delivery container that is configurable for many different recipes. There is a general desire for a compact, re-usable (and/or recyclable) meal kit delivery container that is configurable for ingredients of different shapes, sizes and consistencies (e.g. liquids and solids).

SUMMARY

One aspect of the invention provides a meal kit delivery container. The meal kit delivery container may comprise a main container comprising a base, first and second opposing sidewalls extending from the base and first and second opposing endwalls extending from the base, each of the first and second opposing endwalls extending from the first sidewall to the second sidewall to define a cavity. One or more cups may each cup removably supportable inside the cavity by at least one of a plurality of support features of the main container at a location wherein when supported inside the cavity such that a base of each cup is spaced apart from the base of the main container and a topmost opening-defining edge of each of the one or more cups is coplanar with each of the others of the one or more cups support inside the cavity.

In some embodiments, the plurality support features comprise one or more first support features protruding from the first sidewall. In some embodiments, the plurality of support features comprise one or more first support features protruding from the first sidewall and one or more second support features protruding from the second sidewall. In some embodiments, the one or more first support features protrude from a first shoulder of the first sidewall and the one or more second support features protrude from a second shoulder of the second sidewall. In some embodiments, an upper portion of the first sidewall extends from the first shoulder and an upper portion of the second sidewall extending from the second shoulder.

In some embodiments, a height of the upper portion of the first sidewall as measured from the first shoulder is greater than a height of each of the one or more first support features as measured from the first shoulder. In some embodiments a height of the upper portion of the second sidewall as measured from the second shoulder is greater than a height of each of the one or more second support features as measured from the second shoulder.

In some embodiments, each of the one or more first support features comprises a first reinforcement between the first support feature and the upper portion of the first sidewall and each of the one or more second support features comprises a second reinforcement between the second support feature and the upper portion of the second sidewall.

In some embodiments, an inner surface of each of the one or more first support features is substantially co-planar with an inner surface of the first sidewall and an inner surface of each of the one or more second support features is substantially co-planar with an inner surface of the second sidewall.

In some embodiments, each of the plurality of support features taper in width as the one or more tabs extend away from the base of the main container. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of support features taper in depth as the one or more tabs extend away from the base of the main container.

In some embodiments, a first cup of the one or more cups comprises a first lip and a first hook together defining a first recess for receiving the at least one of the plurality of support features. In some embodiments, the first cup is supported by one of the first support features and is spaced apart from each other first support feature. In some embodiments, the first cup is supported by two of the first support features and is spaced apart from each other first support feature. In some embodiments, the first cup is also supported by a portion of an inner surface of the first sidewall. In some embodiments, the first cup is supported by one or more of the first support features and the first cup is spaced apart from the second sidewall.

In some embodiments, the first cup comprises a second lip and a second hook together defining a second recess for receiving one or more of the second support features. In some embodiments, the first cup is supported by one of the second support features and is spaced apart from each other second support feature. In some embodiments, the first cup is supported by two of the second support features and is spaced apart from each of other second support features. In some embodiments, the first cup is also supported by a portion of an inner surface of the second sidewall.

In some embodiments, a second cup of the one or more cups comprises a third lip and a third hook together defining a third recess for receiving one or more of the second support features. In some embodiments, the second cup is supported by one of the second support features and is spaced apart from each other second support feature. In some embodiments, the second cup is supported by two of the second support features and is spaced apart from each other second support feature. In some embodiments, the second cup is also supported by a portion of an inner surface of the second sidewall. In some embodiments, when the second cup is supported by one or more of the second support features, the second cup is spaced apart from the first sidewall. In some embodiments, the first cup is supported opposite the second cup.

In some embodiments, each of the one or more cups has a length of na wherein n is an integer and each cup is supported by a number, i, of support features on first sidewall and i is equal to n. In some embodiments, n is equal to one for at least one cup. In some embodiments, n is equal to two for at least one cup. In some embodiments, n is equal to three for at least one cup.

In some embodiments, the meal kit delivery container comprises a lid and the lid comprises a gasket for sealing each of the one or more cups. In some embodiments, the gasket is removable. In some embodiments, the gasket comprises a plurality of inner gasket walls. In some embodiments, the gasket comprises a plurality of outer gasket walls. In some embodiments, each of edge of each cup is sandwiched at least in part between the inner gasket wall and the outer gasket wall.

In some embodiments, each of the one or more cups has a length of na wherein n is an integer and wherein the gasket comprises gaps between adjacent outer gasket walls and wherein an edge of a cup having n≥2 passes through one or more of the gaps. In some embodiments, each of the one or more cups has a width of mb wherein m is an integer and wherein the gasket comprises gaps between adjacent outer gasket walls and wherein an edge of a cup having m≥2 passes through one or more of the gaps.

In some embodiments, an edge of each cup comprises four or more protrusions complementary in shape to the gaps between the outer gasket walls. In some embodiments, the lip of each cup comprises four corners and one of the four or more protrusions protrudes from each of the four corners.

In some embodiments, at least two cups of the one or more cups have different heights and bases of the at least two cups are spaced apart from the base of the main container by different distances.

In some embodiments, the gasket is beveled. In some embodiments, the gasket is deformed by between 2 mm and 4 mm by contact with the one or more cups when the lid is installed on the main container. In some embodiments, a contact surface of the gasket is smooth. In some embodiments, a contact surface of the gasket is flat.

In some embodiments, an interior surface of the gasket defines one or more channels. In some embodiments, the one or more channels isolate deformation of the gasket due to interaction of the gasket with one of the one or more cups from deformation of the gasket due to interaction of the gasket with another one of the one or more cups.

In some embodiments, the gasket is integral to the lid. In some embodiments, the gasket sandwiched between the main container and the lid.

In some embodiments, attaching the lid to the main container causes deformation of the gasket. In some embodiments, the deformation of the gasket is caused by interaction of the main container with the gasket and the gasket applies restorative deformation forces against the main container. In some embodiments, the deformation of the gasket is caused by interaction of the one or more cups with the gasket and the gasket applies restorative deformation forces of the gasket against the one or more cups.

In some embodiments, the lid is attachable to the main container by a plurality of snaps.

DESCRIPTION

One aspect of the invention provides a container for storing food. This container may be employed for delivering ingredients of a meal kit to a consumer. In some embodiments, the container comprises a main container and one or more cups removably locatable within the main container. In some embodiments, the one or more cups vary in size and shape. In some embodiments, various combinations of cups of different sizes and shapes can be located in the main container. In spite of the many possible combinations of sizes and shapes of cups that may be located in the main container, a single lid may seal the main container and each of the one or more cups that are located within the main container for different selections and arrangements of the cups. In some embodiments, each of the one or more cups is supported above a base surface of the main container to create a space between the one or more cups and the base surface of the main container. Longer food items such as, but not limited to, raw spaghetti noodles, celery, carrots and the like can be stored in the space between the base surface of the main container and the cups located in the main container.

FIG. 1depicts a meal kit delivery container100according to one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the invention. Container100comprises a main container110, one or more cups140removably locatable (e.g. supportable) within a cavity112of main container110and a lid170. Lid170may seal main container110and/or each individual cup140located in main container110.

As shown inFIG. 1, meal delivery container100comprises a plurality of cups140. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, meal delivery container100comprises cups of different sizes and/or shape (e.g. cups240,340,440,540,640,740) that may collectively or generically be referred to as cups140. Cups140may comprise lips (e.g. lips252,352, etc.) that may be generically or collectively referred to herein as lips152, cavities (e.g. cavities243,343) that may be generically or collectively referred to herein as cavities143, bases (e.g. bases242,342) that may be generically or collectively referred to herein as bases142and recesses (e.g. recesses256,356,360, etc.) that may be generically or collectively referred to herein as recesses156as shown inFIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C.

FIG. 2depicts a main container110according to one non-limiting example embodiment. Main container110comprises a base114, a first sidewall116extending in the z-direction from base114, a second sidewall118extending in the z-direction from base114opposite first sidewall116and first and second opposing endwalls120,122extending in the z-direction from base114and at least partially in the y-direction between first and second opposing sidewalls116,118. Together, base114, first and second sidewalls116,118and first and second endwalls120,122define cavity112. Cavity112is accessible through opening124.

In some embodiments, first sidewall116comprises a shoulder116A extending at least partially outwardly in the y-direction from a lower portion116B of first sidewall116and an upper portion116C of first sidewall116extending in the z-direction from shoulder116A. This is not mandatory. Similarly, in some embodiments, second sidewall118comprises a shoulder118A extending outwardly at least partially in the y-direction from a lower portion118B of second sidewall118and an upper portion118C of second sidewall118extending in the z-direction from shoulder118A. This is also not mandatory.

As can be seen inFIG. 6B, shoulders116A,118A form a step that may extend outwardly from lower portions116B,118B of first and second sidewalls116,118respectively at angles, ϕ, where angles, ϕ, are between 90° and 110°. In some embodiments, angles, ϕ, are between 95° and 105°. First and second upper portions116C,118C of sidewalls116,118may extend at angles, δ, from first and second shoulders116A,118A respectively. In some embodiments angles, δ, are between 85° and 95°. In some embodiments angles, δ, are between 88° and 92°. In some embodiments angles, δ, are 90°.

In some embodiments, main container110is tapered (e.g. main container110may comprise a truncated rectangular pyramid shape) to allow multiple main containers110to be stacked. For example, as can be seen fromFIG. 8, first and second sidewalls116,118extend outwardly in the y-direction as they extend in the z-direction away from base114. Similarly, as can be seen fromFIG. 3, first and second endwalls120,122extend outwardly in the x-direction as they extend in the z-direction away from base114.

Cups140may be inserted into cavity112of main container110through opening124. In some embodiments, cups140are supported on base114of container110. This is not mandatory. In some embodiments, cups140are supported at locations spaced apart from base114of main container110.

Main container110may comprise one or more support features126for supporting one or more cups140inside cavity112. In some embodiments, support features126support each of the one or more cups140within cavity112at a location wherein a base142of each cup140is spaced apart in the z-direction from base114of main container110by a height, h1, as shown inFIG. 3. The portion112A of cavity112between base114of main container110and bases142of cups140may be used to store longer items such as, but not limited to, spaghetti, celery, carrots or the like since portion112A may extend up to the entire distance in the x-direction from first endwall120to second endwall122.

In some embodiments, support features126are arranged to support cups140such that a lip152of each cup140supported within cavity112is coplanar (in an xy-plane). Lips152of each cup140supported within cavity112may be coplanar (in an xy-plane) despite height, h1, being different for one or more cups140, as shown inFIG. 3. This may facilitate having a single lid170seal each cup140located in cavity112of main container110despite cups140being of different sizes and shapes. For example, despite cup240having a different length in the x-direction than cup340, lips152of each of cup240and340are coplanar (in an xy-plane). Similarly, despite cups240and740having different heights in the z-direction, lips152of each of cup240and740are coplanar (in an xy-plane).

In some embodiments, support features126comprise first support features128protruding from first sidewall116. In some embodiments, support features126comprise a linear array of first support features128protruding from first sidewall116. In some embodiments, support features126additionally or alternatively comprise second support features130protruding from second sidewall118. In some embodiments, support features126comprise a linear array of second support features130protruding from second sidewall118. First support features128and second support features130(collectively or generically referred to as support features126) may comprise tabs, hooks, recesses, loops or the like that mate with corresponding (e.g. complementary) features of cups140.

In some embodiments, support features126project in the z-direction. In some embodiments, first support features128protrude in the z-direction from first shoulder116A of first sidewall116. Similarly, in some embodiments, second support features130protrude in the z-direction from second shoulder118A of second sidewall118. This is not mandatory. Support features126could protrude from any portion of first and second sidewalls116,118. In some embodiments, first and second upper portions116C,118C of sidewalls116,118extend from first and second shoulders116A,118A in the y-direction more than first and second support features128,130extend from first and second shoulders116A,118A in the y-direction such that first and second support features128,130are located within cavity112of main container110.

As can be seen fromFIGS. 6A and 6B, support features126may protrude from shoulder116A (or shoulder118A as the case may be) such that a first surface126A of support feature126extends parallel or coplanar with at least a portion of the inner surface116D of lower portion116B of first sidewall116(or inner surface118D of the lower portion118B of second sidewall118as the case may be). This may facilitate installation of cups140by allowing support features126to slide into recesses156of cups without interruption.

In some embodiments, a width, w1, of each support feature126at a point closest to shoulder116A (or shoulder118A) may be greater than a width, w2, of each support feature126at a point distal to shoulder116A (or shoulder118A) such that the width of support feature126is tapered. Similarly, a depth, d1, of each support feature126at a point closest to shoulder116A (or shoulder118A) may be greater than a depth, d2, of each support feature126at a point distal to shoulder116A (or shoulder118A) such that the depth of each support feature126is tapered. Such a tapered width and/or tapered depth of support features126may facilitate alignment of cups140with support features126while mounting cups140on support features126. Such a tapered width and/or tapered depth of support feature126may create a friction fit, wedge fit or the like between recesses156of cups140and support features126to thereby reduce undesirable relative movement (in or about the x, y or z-directions) between support features126and cups140when cups140are supported by support features126.

In some embodiments, corners126B of support features126are rounded. Rounded corners126B may facilitate alignment of cups140with support features126while mounting cups140on support features126.

In some embodiments, support features126comprise reinforcements126C connecting a second surface126D of first support features126to upper portion116C of first sidewall116(or upper portion118C of second sidewall118as the case may be). Reinforcements126C may strengthen support features126and may provide additional surfaces against which recesses156of cups140may abut or wedge to thereby reduce undesirable relative movement (in the x, y and/or z-directions) between cups140and support features126when cups140are supported by support features126.

The number, arrangement, shape and size of cups140supported by support features126within main container110may be varied as desired. For example, different sizes, shapes, arrangements and numbers of cups140may be chosen based on the recipe of the meal being delivered in meal kit delivery container100.

FIG. 4shows an exemplary non-limiting combination of an exemplary number of cups140of different sizes and shapes. Cups140may have an x-direction dimension that is a multiple of a first unit dimension and a y-direction dimension that is a multiple of a second unit dimension. For example, referring toFIG. 4, each cup140may have an x-direction dimension that is a multiple, n, of a unit dimension, a, and a y-direction dimension that is a multiple, m, of a unit dimension, b. For example:for cup240n=1 and m=1;for cup340n=2 and m=1;for cup440n=3 and m=2;for cup540n=1 and m=2;for cup640, n=1 and m=1; andfor cup740, n=1 and m=1.
While the depicted embodiments only shows cups140of the above-noted dimensions, it should be understood that cups140having other combinations of n and m could be employed and other combinations and variations of cups140having various sizes and shapes could be fitted in main container110.

To allow for each cup140to fit within main container110, opening124of main container110may have a minimum x-direction dimension of at least Na where N is the larger of the sum of the multiples, n, of each cup140supported by first sidewall116and the sum of the of the multiples, n, of each cup140supported by second sidewall118. For example, in theFIG. 4embodiment, the sum of the multiples, n, of each cup140supported by first sidewall116is ten and the sum of the multiples, n, of each cup140supported by second sidewall118is six. Therefore, for theFIG. 4embodiment, N is equal to ten. While in the depicted embodiment, N=10, this is not necessary and N could equal any desirable integer.

To allow for each cup140to fit within main container110, opening124of main container110may have a minimum y-direction dimension of at least Mb where M is the largest of the sums of the multiples, m, of each cup140that overlaps in the y-direction within main container110, where two or more cups overlap in the y-direction if a single y-direction line can be drawn to intersect all of the two or more overlapping cups. Therefore, in theFIG. 4embodiment, since no cups overlap in the y-direction and the largest value of m is two, M is equal to two.

Where M is equal to two, it may be possible to install a first cup140having m=1 mounted on a first support feature128opposite a second cup140having m=1 mounted on second support feature130such that first and second cups140overlap in the y-direction. For example,FIG. 1depicts a pair of cups340mounted opposite one another such that they overlap in the y-direction. In this way, it is possible to increase the number of cups140. Further, it may be desirable to provide small cups that are not overly narrow (in the x-direction) to facilitate filling of cavities143. This may be particularly advantageous where there are a large number of ingredients in a recipe but the amounts of such ingredients are small enough to fit in relatively smaller cups like cups240,340,740.

It should also be understood that M could equal one. It should also be understood that M could equal more than two. For example, if M equals three, it would be possible to provide a first cup140having m=1 opposite and overlapping in the y-direction with a second cup140having m=1 or m=2. It would also be possible to have a cup having m=3.

To allow for each cup140to fit beside adjacent cups140, x-direction midpoints of adjacent support features126may be spaced apart by a minimum x-direction dimension of a-δ, where δ is a clearance factor to ease installation of cups140. In some embodiments, δ is between 0.02a and 0.04a. In some embodiments, δ is between 0.5 mm and 3 mm.

In some embodiments, the number of first support features128and the number of second support features130are each equal to N, where N is the larger of the sum of the multiples, n, of each cup140supported by first sidewall116and the sum of the of the multiples, n, of each cup140supported by second sidewall118.

Conversely, the sum of the multiples, n, of each of the maximum number of cups140supportable by first sidewall116is N*, where N* is the number of first support features128and the sum of the multiples, n, of each of the maximum number of cups140supportable by second sidewall118is N*, where N* is the number of second support features130. In some embodiments, N*=N. This is not mandatory.

FIGS. 7A to 7Cdepict an exemplary cup240. Cup240comprises a base242, a first sidewall244extending in the z-direction from base114, a second sidewall246extending at least in the z-direction from base242opposite first sidewall244and first and second opposing endwalls248,250extending in the z-direction from base242and at least partially in the x direction between first and second opposing sidewalls244,246. Together, base242, first and second sidewalls244,246and first and second endwalls248,250define cavity243.

In some embodiments, cup240is tapered to allow cups240to be stacked within each other (or other cups140) and/or to fit within the tapered shape of main container110. For example, as can be seen fromFIGS. 7A and 7B, first and second sidewalls244,246extend outwardly in the x-direction as they extend in the z-direction away from base242and first and second endwalls248,250extend outwardly in the y-direction as they extend in the z-direction from base242.

Cup240may comprise a lip252that extends outwardly (e.g. at least partially in the x or y-directions) around at least a portion of the perimeter of the opening of cup240. For example, lip252may extend outwardly from a top edge (e.g. an edge distal to base242) of first and second sidewalls244,246and/or a top edge (e.g. an edge distal to base242) of first and second endwalls248,250. As shown inFIG. 7A, lip252may be continuous around the perimeter of the opening of cup240. This is not mandatory.

A hook254may protrude from lip252. Hook254may comprise a hook endwall254A and opposing hook sidewalls254B,254C. Hook endwall254A, opposing hook sidewalls254B,254C and endwall250may together define a recess256for receiving one or more support features126.

Recess256may be complementary in shape to support features126. In particular, recess256may be tapered in length and depth similar to support features126. Hook endwall254A may define a cutout254D. Cutout254D may be complementary in shape to reinforcement126C such that reinforcement126C does not interfere with insertion of support features126into recess256. Moreover, the complementary shapes of cutout254D and reinforcement126C may reduce unwanted movement between cup240and container110.

FIG. 8depicts a cup240installed in a main container110. As cup240is lowered into cavity112, cup240is aligned such that a first support feature128is aligned with recess254of cup240. As first support feature128enters recess254, the tapered wedge-like shape of first support feature128may contact an inner surface of one or more of hook endwall254A, opposing hook sidewalls254B,254C and endwall250. Once cup240is installed on first support feature128, a top126E of first support feature128may contact a bottom252A of lip252. Furthermore, a bottom edge254E of hook sidewall254B and a bottom edge254F of hook sidewall254C may contact shoulder116A as shown inFIG. 8.

As best seen inFIG. 8, endwall250of cup240may contact inner surface116D of first sidewall116when cup240is installed on first support feature128. This is not mandatory. In particular, as weight is added to cup240(e.g. by placing meal ingredients in cavity243), endwall250of cup240may be forced (e.g. due to gravity) against lower portion116B of first sidewall116. First sidewall116may thereby support at least some weight of cup240and its contents (e.g. meal ingredients in cavity243). Contact of endwall250with first sidewall116may prevent or reduce movement of cup240.

In some embodiments, one or more secondary support features (e.g. ledges, bumps, grooves, indents, etc.) are provided on endwalls of cups140(e.g. endwall250) and/or inner surface116D of first sidewall116(or an inner surface118D of second sidewall118). Such features may improve alignment of cups140and main container110, further support at least some weight of cups140and/or prevent undesirable movement of cups140relative to main container110. In some embodiments, a secondary support feature of an endwall of a cup140could be complementary to a secondary support feature on inner surface116D of first sidewall116(or an inner surface of second sidewall118).

In some embodiments, endwalls of cups140(or one or more secondary support features thereof) may be shaped and sized such that contact of endwalls of a cup140(or one or more secondary support features thereof) with inner surface116D of first sidewall116causes said cup140to be angled upward away from first sidewall116such that a distal end of said cup140is slightly higher than a proximate (e.g. near first sidewall161) end of cup140. Such upward angling of cup140may improve the seal of cup140with lid170.

The weight of cup240and its contents may be supported by one or more of:contact of top126E of first support feature128and bottom252A of lip252;contact of bottom edge254E of hook sidewall254B and bottom edge254F of hook sidewall254C with shoulder116A;contact of first support feature128with one or more of hook endwall254A, opposing hook sidewalls254B,254C and endwall250;contact of the surfaces defining cutout254D with reinforcement126C; andcontact of endwall250of cup240with inner surface116D of first sidewall116.

While cup240is supported by a single first support feature128, this is not strictly necessary. A cup140could be supported by two or more first support features128. In some embodiments, each cup140is supportable by nm support features126. For example, cup340(as shown inFIG. 1) may be supported by two support features126since for cup340n=2 and m=1 and therefore nm=2. Cup340may be substantially similar to cup240except that the endwalls and recess156of cup340are wider. In particular, recess156of cup340is sufficiently large in the y-direction to receive two support features126and the cutout of the hook of cup340is sufficiently large in the x-direction to receive two reinforcements126C.

While cup240and cup340are supported by first support features128and not second support features130, this is not necessary. For example, cup240and cup340could each be supported by second support features130and not first support features128. Furthermore, a cup140could bridge across opening124of main container110and be supported by one or more first support features128and one or more second support features130like cups440,540,640shown inFIG. 1.

FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9Cdepict an exemplary cup440. Cup440may be substantially similar to cup240except that it is larger in the x and y-directions and is supportable in cavity112of main container110by two first support features128and two second support features130. Like cup240, cup440defines a cavity443. Cavity443is defined by a base442, first and second sidewalls444,446and first and second endwalls448,450.

In some embodiments, cup440is tapered to allow cups440to be stacked and/or to fit within the tapered shape of main container110. For example, as can be seen fromFIGS. 9A and 9B, first and second sidewalls444,446extend at least partially outwardly in the x-direction from base442and first and second endwalls448,450extend at least partially outwardly in the y-direction from base442.

Cup440may comprise a lip452that extends outwardly (e.g. at least partially in the x or y-directions) around at least a portion of the perimeter of the opening of cup440. For example, lip452may extend outwardly from a top edge (e.g. an edge distal to base442) of first and second sidewalls444,446and/or a top edge (e.g. an edge distal to base442) of first and second endwalls448,450. As shown inFIG. 9A, lip452may be continuous around the perimeter of the opening of cup440. This is not mandatory.

A first hook454may protrude from lip252. First hook454may comprise a hook endwall454A and opposing hook sidewalls454B,454C. Hook endwall454A, opposing hook sidewalls454B,454C and endwall448may together define a first recess456for receiving one or more support features126.

A second hook458may protrude from lip252. Second hook458may comprise a hook endwall458A and opposing hook sidewalls458B,458C. Hook endwall458A, opposing hook sidewalls458B,458C and endwall450may together define a second recess460for receiving one or more support features126.

First and second recesses456,460may be complementary in shape to one or more support features126. In particular, recesses456,460may be tapered in the x and y-directions along the z-direction similar to support features126. Hook endwalls454A,456A may define cutouts454D,456D respectively. Cutouts454D,456D may each be complementary in shape to reinforcements126C such that reinforcements126C do not interfere with insertion of support features126into recesses456,460. Moreover, the complementary shapes of cutouts454D,456D and reinforcements126C may reduce undesirable movement between cup440and main container110.

FIG. 10depicts a cup440installed in a main container110. As cup440is lowered into cavity114, cup440is aligned such that two first support features128are aligned with first recess456of cup440and two second support features130are aligned with second recess460of cup440. As first support features128enter first recess456, the tapered wedge-like shapes of first support features128may contact an inner surface of one or more of hook endwall454A, opposing hook sidewalls454B,454C and endwall448. Similarly, as second support features130enter second recess460, the tapered wedge-like shapes of second support features130may contact an inner surface of one or more of hook endwall458A, opposing hook sidewalls458B,458C and endwall450.

Once cup440is installed on first support features128, tops126C of first support features128may contact a first bottom portion452A of lip452and tops126C of second support features130may contact a second bottom portion452B of lip452. Furthermore, a bottom edge454E of hook sidewall454B and a bottom edge454F of hook sidewall454C of hook454may contact shoulder116A and a bottom edge458E of hook sidewall458B and a bottom edge458F of hook sidewall458C of hook458may contact shoulder118A as shown inFIG. 10.

As best seen inFIG. 10, endwall448of cup440may contact inner surface116D of lower portion116B of first sidewall116when cup440is installed on first support features128and endwall450of cup440may contact inner surface118D lower portion118B of second sidewall118when cup440is installed on second support features130. In particular, as weight is added to cup440(e.g. by placing meal ingredients in cavity443), endwall448of cup440may be forced (e.g. due to gravity) against lower portion116B of first sidewall116and endwall450of cup440may be forced (e.g. due to gravity) against lower portion118B of second sidewall118. Contact of endwalls448,450and first and second sidewalls116,118may prevent or reduce movement of cup440. First sidewall116and second sidewall118may also support at least some weight of cup440and its contents (e.g. meal ingredients in cavity443).

The weight of cup440and its contents may be supported by one or more of:contact of tops126E of first support features128and first bottom portion452A of lip452,contact of tops126E of second support features130and second bottom portion452B of lip452;contact of bottom edge454E of hook sidewall454B and bottom edge454F of hook sidewall454C with shoulder116A;contact of bottom edge458E of hook sidewall458B and bottom edge458F of hook sidewall458C with shoulder118A;contact of first support features128with one or more of hook endwall454A, opposing hook sidewalls454B,454C and first endwall448;contact of second support features130with one or more of hook endwall458A, opposing hook sidewalls458B,458C and second endwall450;contact of the surfaces defining cutout454D with reinforcement126C;contact of the surfaces defining cutout458D with reinforcement130C;contact of first endwall448of cup440with inner surface116D of first sidewall116; andcontact of second endwall450of cup440with inner surface118D of second sidewall118.

While cup440is supported by two first support features128and two second support features230, this is not strictly necessary. A cup140could be supported by three or more first support features128and three or more second support features130. For example, cup540(as shown inFIG. 1) may be supported by three first support features128and three second support features130. Cup540may be substantially similar to cup440except that the endwalls and recesses156of cup540are wider. In particular, the recesses156of cup540are sufficiently wide to receive three first support features128and three second support features130respectively and the cutouts of the hooks of cup440are sufficiently wide to receive three reinforcements126C.

A cup140could also be supported by one first support feature128and one second support feature130. For example, cup640(as shown inFIG. 1) may be supported by one first support feature128and one second support feature130. Cup640may be substantially similar to cup440except that the endwalls and recesses156of cup540are smaller in the x-direction. In particular, the recesses156of cup640are only sufficiently wide to receive one first support feature128or one second support feature130and the cutouts of the hooks of cup440are only sufficiently wide to receive one reinforcement126C.

Although not depicted, it should be understood that a cup140could be provided that is supportable by n first support features128and n* second support features130where n≠n*.

FIG. 11depicts a lid170according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. Lid170may be attached to main container110in any suitable manner. For example, as depicted, lid170may comprise a plurality of snaps172which may be snapped onto a lip132of main container110. This is not mandatory. Lid170could also be attached to main container110using a hinge, press-fit, screw-fit, clamp-fit or any other suitable mechanism.

In some embodiments, lid170comprises a plurality of plateaus174. This is not mandatory. Plateaus174may be arranged in a two-dimensional array. Each plateau174may have a similar size and shape. Each plateau may protrude in the z-direction from an inner surface170A of lid170. Each plateau174, on its own, or together with adjacent and/or opposing plateaus174may seal or partially seal each cup140(e.g. cups240,340,440,540etc.) within main container110when lid170is installed on main container110. As such, independent of what combination of shapes and sizes of cups140is installed within main container110, plateaus174may seal or partially seal each cup140.

For example, each plateau174may correspond generally in size and shape to one or more cups140. Specifically, plateau174-1may be complementary in size and shape to an opening of cavity243of a cup having n=1 and m=1 (e.g. cup240or cup740).

When combined, plateaus174may be complementary in size and shape to openings of cavities143of various cups140. In the illustrated embodiment, each pair of adjacent plateau's174may together be complementary in shape to a cup140having n=2 and m=1 (e.g. cup340). Specifically, adjacent plateaus174-1,174-2may together be complementary in size and shape to an opening of cavity343of cup340. Each pair of opposing plateau's174may together be complementary in shape to a cup140having n=1 and m=2 (e.g. cup640). Specifically, opposing plateaus174-1,174-4may together be complementary in size and shape to an opening of the cavity143of cup640. Two opposing pairs of adjacent plateau's may together be complementary in shape to a cup140having n=2 and m=2 (e.g. cup440). Specifically, plateau's174-1,174-2,174-3,174-4may together be complementary in size and shape to an opening of the cavity143of cup440.

To improve the seal between plateaus174and cups140, a gasket176may optionally be provided. Gasket176may fill a gap or gaps between plateaus174and cups140(e.g. lips152of cups140) to improve a seal between lid170and cups140.FIG. 12depicts a gasket176according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. Gasket176may be a single contiguous piece of material or gasket176may comprise a plurality of parts. Gasket176may be attached to lid170by friction, a deformation fit, glue, bonding or in any other suitable manner. In some embodiments, gasket176is co-molded with lid170. In some embodiments, gasket176is integral with lid170. In some embodiments, gasket176is integral to lid270. In some embodiments, gasket176is sandwiched between lid170and main container110.

Gasket176may comprise inner sealing features178and outer sealing features180. Together, inner and outer sealing features178,180may seal or substantially seal cups140and main container110such that solids and liquids do not leak out of (or enter) cups140or main container110when sealed container100is jostled, flipped upside down or shaken.

FIG. 13depicts gasket176and outlines of the endwalls (e.g. endwalls248,250, endwalls348,350, etc.) and sidewalls (e.g. sidewalls244,246, sidewalls344,346, etc.) at the opening of cavities143of cups140. As best seen inFIG. 13, when lid170(with gasket176) is locked on main container110, inner sealing features178may be located between one or more plateaus174and inner surfaces of the endwalls (e.g. endwalls248,250, endwalls348,350, etc.) and sidewalls (e.g. sidewalls244,246, sidewalls344,346, etc.) at the opening of cavities143of cups140.

Outer sealing features180comprise outer sealing wall180A, outer sealing walls180B and outer sealing walls180C, as shown inFIG. 12. When lid170(with gasket176) is locked on main container110, outer sealing features180may be located between outer surfaces of the endwalls (e.g. endwalls248,250, endwalls348,350, etc.) and sidewalls (e.g. sidewalls244,246, sidewalls344,346, etc.) at the opening of cavities143of cups140.

To allow for cups having n>1 (e.g. cups340,440, etc.), gaps182A are provided between outer sealing wall180A and outer sealing walls180B and gaps182C are provided between outer sealing walls180B and outer sealing walls180C. For example, as shown inFIG. 13, endwall348of cup340(which has n=2) passes through gap182A such that outer sealing features180do not interfere with endwall348.

Similarly, to allow for cups having m>1, gaps182B are provided between outer sealing wall180A and outer sealing walls180C and gaps182C are provided between outer sealing walls180B and outer sealing walls180C. For example, as shown inFIG. 13, sidewall346of cup340, which has m=2, passes through gaps182C such that outer sealing features180do not interfere with sidewall346.

To reduce a risk that gaps182A,182B,182C may hamper the sealing capabilities of gasket176, cups140may have one or more protrusions that fill one or more of gaps182A,182B,182C. In particular, cups140may comprise one or more corner protrusions. This is not mandatory—in some embodiments, corner protrusions164A are omitted. Corner protrusions164A may fill one or more of gaps182A,182B,182C. For example, as can be seen inFIGS. 7A and 7C, cup240comprises a corner protrusion164A protruding from and above lip252at each corner formed between sidewalls244,246and endwalls248,250. As can be seen inFIG. 13, corner protrusions164A fill gaps (e.g. are complementary to)182A,182B and182C around cup240. As such, corner protrusions164A may reduce the risk of leakage from cup240and improve the seal between cup240and lid170.

Cups140may also comprise one or more endwall protrusions164B to fill gaps182A,182C. This is not mandatory—in some embodiments, endwall protrusions164B are omitted. For example, in addition to corner protrusions164A, cup440also comprises endwall protrusions164B protruding from and above lip452along endwalls448,450. As can be seen inFIG. 13, endwall protrusions164A fill (e.g. are complementary to) gaps182A around cup340. As such, endwall protrusions164B may reduce the risk of leakage from cup340and improve the seal between cup440and lid170.

Cups140may also comprise one or more sidewall protrusions164C to fill gap182B,182C. This is not mandatory. For example, in addition to corner protrusions164A and endwall protrusions164B, cup340comprises sidewall protrusions164C protruding from and above lip452along sidewalls444,446. As can be seen inFIG. 13, sidewall protrusions164A fill (e.g. are complementary to) gaps182C around cup340. As such, sidewall protrusions164C may reduce the risk of leakage from cup440and improve the seal between cup340and lid170.

Protrusions164A,164B,164C may be rounded or squared as may be complementary to gaps182A,182B,182C. Protrusions164A,164B,164C may be coplanar (in an xy-plane) with a topmost edge of cups140such to provide a consistent seal between cups140and gasket176and/or lid170.

In some embodiments, gasket176is fabricated from a softer material than lid170. For example, in some embodiments, gasket176comprises rubber or an elastomeric material. In some embodiments, gasket176comprises a support structure such as an internal skeleton made of a relatively more rigid material.

When lid170is locked on main container110, gasket176may have an abutment fit with one or more of endwalls (e.g. endwalls248,250, endwalls348,350, etc.), sidewalls (e.g. sidewalls244,246, sidewalls344,346, etc.) and protrusions164A,164B,164C of cups140such that there is contact between the endwalls, sidewalls and protrusions of cups140with gasket176but gasket176is not substantially deformed.

Alternatively, gasket176may have a deformation fit with one or more of endwalls (e.g. endwalls248,250, endwalls348,350, etc.), sidewalls (e.g. sidewalls244,246, sidewalls344,346, etc.) and protrusions164A,164B,164C of cups140such that there is contact between the endwalls, sidewalls and protrusions of cups140with gasket176which cause gasket176to be deformed.

Alternatively, gasket176may have a restorative deformation fit with endwalls (e.g. endwalls248,250, endwalls348,350, etc.), sidewalls (e.g. sidewalls244,246, sidewalls344,346, etc.) and protrusions164A,164B,164C of cups140such that there is contact between the endwalls, sidewalls and protrusions of cups140with gasket176which causes gasket176to be elastically deformed. In this case, restorative deformation forces (associated with a bias of the material of gasket176to return to its non-deformed shape) apply pressure against endwalls, sidewalls and protrusions of cups140to thereby improve the seal between gasket176and cups140.

In some embodiments, lid170does not comprise plateaus174and gasket176may be sufficiently stiff to accommodate any structure that plateaus174may have otherwise provided.

In some embodiments, lid170is bowed across the y-direction (e.g. the midpoint of lid170as shown inFIG. 14is lower than the y-direction end points of lid170) to improve contact between lid170and/or gasket176of lid170with cups140. In particular, lid170may be bowed across the y-direction to improve contact between170and/or gasket176of lid170with cups140having m=1 since cups having m=1 may be more likely to flex or deflect downward at endwall248when mounted on support feature(s)126.

FIG. 15depicts a lid270according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention. Lid270may be substantially similar to lid170except as follows. For example, lid270may comprise snaps272and a plurality of plateaus274. Snaps272may be similar to snaps172. Plateaus274may be similar to plateaus174.

To improve the seal between plateaus274and cups140, a gasket276may be provided.FIG. 16depicts a gasket276according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. Gasket276may be a single contiguous piece of material or gasket276may comprise a plurality of parts. Gasket276may be attached to lid270by friction, a deformation fit, glue, bonding or in any other suitable manner. In some embodiments, gasket276is co-molded with lid270.

Unlike gasket176, gasket276does not comprise inner and outer sealing features. Instead, gasket276is configured to have a deformation fit (or restorative deformation fit) with one or more of endwalls (e.g. endwalls248,250, endwalls348,350, etc.), sidewalls (e.g. sidewalls244,246, sidewalls344,346, etc.) and protrusions164A,164B,164C of cups140such that there is contact between the endwalls, sidewalls and protrusions of cups140with gasket276which cause gasket276to be deformed. Such deformation of gasket276creates a seal between cups140and gasket276. In some embodiments, gasket276is sufficiently thick (e.g. in the z-direction) to allow gasket276to deform by between 1 mm and 6 mm in the z-direction when lid270is installed on main container110. In some embodiments, gasket276is sufficiently thick (e.g. in the z-direction) to allow gasket276to deform by between 2 mm and 4 mm in the z-direction when lid270is installed on main container110.

In some embodiments, to improve a seal between gasket276and cups140, cups140do not comprise one or more of protrusions164A,164B,164C.

In some embodiments, lid270is bowed across the y-direction like lid170, to improve contact between lid270and/or gasket276of lid270with cups140. In particular, lid270may be bowed across the y-direction to improve contact between lid270and/or gasket276of lid270with cups140having m=1 since cups having m=1 may be more likely to flex or deflect downward at endwall248when mounted on support feature(s)126.

In some embodiments, gasket276is beveled across the y-direction (e.g. the midpoint276A of lid gasket276as shown inFIG. 16is thicker in the z-direction than the y-direction end points of gasket276). Gasket276may be beveled such that a contact surface276B of gasket276is relatively flat (e.g. relatively un-curved) to mate with the relatively flat lips (e.g. lips252,352, etc.) of cups140. Gasket276may be beveled across the y-direction to improve contact between lid270and/or gasket276of lid270with cups140having m=1 since cups having m=1 may be more likely to flex or deflect downward at endwall248when mounted on support feature(s)126.

As shown, for example, inFIG. 17, lid270may comprise one or more ribs278. Ribs278may increase a stiffness of lid270in the x-direction and/or the y-direction. In some embodiments, lid270may comprise a spine280. Spine280may increase a stiffness of lid270in the x-direction and/or the y-direction. In some embodiments, an outer surface of base114comprises one or more features which can be mated with rib278and/or spine280to facilitate stacking of containers100.

FIGS. 18 and 19depict a gasket376according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. Gasket376is substantially similar to gasket276except as follows. Gasket376may be attached to a lid (e.g. lid170or lid270) by friction, a deformation fit, glue, bonding or in any other suitable manner. In some embodiments, gasket376is co-molded with a lid (e.g. lid170or lid270). In some embodiments, gasket376is integral to a lid (e.g. lid170or lid270).

Like gasket276, gasket376does not comprise inner and outer sealing features and gasket376is configured to have a deformation fit (or restorative deformation fit) with one or more of endwalls (e.g. endwalls248,250, endwalls348,350, etc.), sidewalls (e.g. sidewalls244,246, sidewalls344,346, etc.) and protrusions164A,164B,164C of cups140such that there is contact between the endwalls, sidewalls and protrusions of cups140with gasket376which cause gasket376to be deformed. Such deformation of gasket376creates a seal between cups140and gasket376.

However, unlike gasket276, gasket376comprises one or more interior channels376C defined by an interior surface376D of gasket376(e.g. a surface of gasket376that faces a lid such as lid170or lid270). Channels376C may extend in the gaps between plateaus174(or plateaus274). Channels376C may interconnect or criss-cross. While interior surface276D of gasket may define channels376C, an opposite exterior surface of gasket376may be substantially similar to that of gasket276, as shown inFIG. 15.

The interaction between cups140and gasket376may cause deformation of one or more portions of gasket376into interior channels376C. In this way, interior channels376C may facilitate deformation of gasket376by one or more of endwalls (e.g. endwalls248,250, endwalls348,350, etc.), sidewalls (e.g. sidewalls244,246, sidewalls344,346, etc.) and protrusions164A,164B,164C of cups140. Moreover, channels376C may allow for deformation of a portion of gasket376by a first cup140without such deformation affecting (or substantially affecting) the portion of gasket376that seals a second adjacent cup140. In this way, gasket376may be better suited to accommodate (e.g. seal) various combinations of cups140by allowing for independent (or substantially independent) deformative interaction between gasket376and each cup140.

In some embodiments, where plateaus (e.g. plateaus174) are not present on a lid (e.g. lid170or lid270), a gasket may have an outer surface (e.g. that contacts cups140) that is substantially uniform and flat (e.g. the outer surface does not define any apertures). In such an embodiment, the gasket may comprise one or more interior channels defined by an interior surface of the gasket (e.g. a surface of the gasket that faces a lid).

In some embodiments, in addition to (or in the alternative to) a gasket (e.g. gasket176or gasket276), lips152of cups140may comprise a sealing material (e.g. a rubber or elastomeric material). This sealing material may be bonded to lips152or co-molded with cups140or attached to cups140in any suitable manner. This sealing material may improve the seal of individual cups140with a lid (e.g. lid170or lid270). The sealing material may have a larger surface area that contacts the lid as compared to lips152to improve the seal between cups140and lid170.

In some embodiments, where a gasket (e.g. gasket176, gasket276or the like) is co-molded with a lid (e.g. lid170, lid270or the like), the gasket may extend from the lid in the z-direction but also (at least in part) in the x and or y-directions such that the gasket increases a contact surface area between the lid and cups140.

In some embodiments, a gasket (e.g. gasket176, gasket276or the like) may comprises multiple z-direction levels of sealing features. For example, the gasket may have features shaped and sized to fit a first size of cup140at a first z-direction location, features shaped and sized to fit a second size of cup140at a second z-direction location, features shaped and sized to fit a third size of cup140at a third z-direction location and so on. In this way, a gasket may have features specific to various sizes of cups without such features interfering with each other.

Interpretation of Terms

While a number of exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those of skill in the art will recognize certain modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations thereof. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claims hereafter introduced are interpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations as are consistent with the broadest interpretation of the specification as a whole.