Abstract:
A modular casket that is easy to assemble and can be assembled with few or no tools is disclosed. The casket comprises a number of injection molded plastic pieces that can be snap-fit together. The casket is relatively compact and lightweight and is conducive to shipping and storage, yet has sufficient strength for its intended purpose.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 11/297,864, filed on Dec. 9, 2005. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention generally relates to a modular casket or coffin. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Caskets or coffins are typically purchased during a stressful time shortly after the unfortunate need arises due to the death of a loved one. Although caskets have been traditionally purchased through a funeral home, caskets could be more available from alternative point of sale locations such as directly from a funeral supply stores, the internet, and retail locations. The available selection of caskets, however, is mostly limited to steel or wood caskets that are expensive. The bulky steel or wood caskets are also difficult to ship and prone to damage during shipment which increases the difficulty of using alternative point of sale locations. Caskets also occupy considerable space when stored and require climate controlled storage. Consequently, a need exists for a less expensive casket. A need also exists for a modular casket that can be easily shipped and assembled and can be stored in a non-climate controlled facility. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0004]    A more complete understanding of the method and apparatus of the present invention may be had by reference to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
           [0005]      FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of the casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0006]      FIG. 2  is a bottom perspective view of the casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0007]      FIG. 3  is an overall exploded perspective view of the casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0008]      FIG. 4  is a partial cutaway detailed view depicting the connection between a side panel, an end panel, and a base section in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0009]      FIG. 5   a  is an exploded perspective side view depicting the connection of two side panels by a wedge member in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0010]      FIG. 5   b  is an exploded perspective side view depicting the connection of two side panels by a wedge member in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0011]      FIG. 5   c  is an exploded perspective side view depicting the connection of two side panels by a twist lock fastener in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0012]      FIG. 6   a  is a perspective view showing how the base section can be further secured to a side panel in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0013]      FIG. 6   b  is a perspective view depicting a base section in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0014]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a partially constructed casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0015]      FIG. 8  is a perspective view depicting the pallbearer handrail in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0016]      FIG. 9   a  is a partial cutaway exploded view of the inside of one end of the casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0017]      FIG. 9   b  is an exploded perspective view depicting the hinge assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0018]      FIG. 9   c  is a partial exploded perspective view taken depicting the lid assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0019]      FIG. 9   d  is a partial cutaway view depicting the end of the casket from the inside in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0020]      FIG. 10   a  is a partial cutaway view of the portion labeled  FIG. 10A  in  FIG. 9   a  depicting the locking mechanism in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0021]      FIG. 10   b  is an alternative partial cutaway view depicting the locking mechanism depicted in  FIG. 10   a.    
           [0022]      FIG. 11  is a top perspective view of the casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0023]      FIG. 12  is a simplified perspective view illustrating the packing configuration of the kit for making a modular casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0024]      FIG. 13  is a partial exploded perspective view depicting various seal locations in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. 
           [0025]      FIG. 14   a  is a perspective view depicting a side panel to end panel seal in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. 
           [0026]      FIG. 14   b  is a perspective view depicting a side panel to side panel seal in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. 
           [0027]      FIG. 15   a  is a partial exploded perspective view depicting a support member in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. 
           [0028]      FIG. 15   b  is a partial exploded perspective view depicting a rod in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. 
       
    
    
       [0029]    Where used in the various figures of the drawing, the same numerals designate the same or similar parts. Furthermore, when the terms “top,” “bottom,” “first,” “second,” “upper,” “lower,” “height,” “width,” “length,” “end,” “side,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” and similar terms are used herein, it should be understood that these terms have reference only to the structure shown in the drawing and are utilized only to facilitate describing the invention. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0030]      FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of the casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As used herein, the term “casket” is synonymous with and meant to include the term “coffin.”  FIG. 2  is a bottom perspective view of the casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 3  is an overall exploded perspective view of the casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to  FIG. 3 , the casket comprises a pair of opposed sidewalls  110 . The same reference numbers are used to identify the same corresponding elements throughout all drawings unless otherwise noted. The sidewalls  110  comprise one or more side panels  120 . In one embodiment, each sidewall  110  comprises a pair of side panels  120  slidably connected together by a wedge member  130 . Each side panel  120  comprises a vertical side  122  designed to be slidably attached to a vertical end panel side  141   142 . It should be pointed out that the “vertical” end panel sides  141   142  do not need to be vertical and such sides can be rounded. The term “vertical” is simply used to denote the side  141   142  of the end panel  140  that is attached to the side panel  120 . Similarly, the vertical side  122  of the side panel  120  can be rounded or any other shape and is simply called “vertical” to denote the side  122  of the side panel  120  that is attached to the end panel  140 . The base section can comprise one or more pieces. In one embodiment, the base section comprises two base ends  210  and a middle base portion  220 . The base section can be attached to the opposed side panels  120  and/or said opposed end panels  140 . 
         [0031]    The lid can comprise one or more sections. In one embodiment, a first lid section  310  and a second lid section  320  can be attached to the sidewall  110 . In one embodiment, the first lid section  310  is attached to a first side panel  120  and the second lid section  320  is attached to an adjacent second side panel  120 . 
         [0032]    The base section, side walls, end panels, and lid can comprise a plastic composition. Although the base section, side walls, end panels, and lid components and the hinge assembly can be formed from a variety of different materials using different manufacturing techniques, in the subject embodiment, they are injection molded from a suitable plastic containing fibers for reinforcement. Plastics that can be used include, but are not limited to ABS, polycarbonate, fiberglass, metals, and mixtures thereof. Any injection molded composition can be used. As used herein, an “injection molded composition” is defined as any material, resin or composite that can be injection molded. It should be further noted that different additives can be used for different injection molded parts. Strengthening ribs and other complex structures can be provided to make the components more rigid. 
         [0033]    As shown in  FIG. 3 , each side panel  120  comprises one rounded edge near the end panel  140 . Such illustration is just one example of how a rounded corner can be provided. In one embodiment (not shown), the end panel comprises one or more rounded corners. In one embodiment (not shown), a side panel comprises a rounded corner. Some consumers deem rounded corners to be desirable in caskets and caskets having rounded corners are more expensive to manufacture and are consequently more expensive in the marketplace. For example, the expenses of making a metal or steel casket with a rounded edge are significant because of the forming/stamping/pressing operation that is required to form the metal or steel material. Such forming equipment is expensive. Consequently, steel and metal caskets are typically cut to length and welded together to form square corners. However, caskets made of sheet metal are still labor intensive because of the welding and grinding that is required in putting the caskets together. Wood caskets more typically have rounded corners, but wood is relatively heavy, bulky, and expensive to ship. Both metal and wood caskets, if not assembled prior to shipment, are difficult to assemble at a point of distribution or use, unlike the present invention, which is easy to assemble for reasons discussed in more detail below. 
         [0034]      FIG. 4  is a partial cutaway detailed view depicting the connection between a side panel  120 , an end panel  140 , and a base section  210  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiment shown, the end panel  140  is sized to be slidably connected into the side panel  120  receiving cavity  128 . As used herein the term “slidably connected” and the term “slidably attached” is defined by the attachment or connection of two pieces such that the pieces are pressure-fit together. “Pressure-fit,” is a term known to those skilled in the art. The term can refer to a bond caused by mutual pressure acting on the contact surfaces between two parts in contact, wherein the two parts require no weld, screw, or nail connection. Thus, in one embodiment, the side panel  120  and receiving cavity  128  are sized to maximize the contact between the side panel  120  outer periphery and receiving cavity  128  inner periphery. In addition, a male member  136  on the end panel  140  is located so as to snap-fit into a female member  138  located on the side panel  120 . Such members  136   138  help to further lock the two pieces together and secure the two pieces in place. Such members not only help hold the two pieces together, but they also further signal the assembler that the connection is complete. It should be pointed out that this specific connection is provided for purposes of illustration and not limitation. There can be any number of male and female pairs in any configuration. For example, in an embodiment not shown, similar male and female members are provided on the base section  210  and end panel  140  to further lock the end panel  140  and base section  210  together and/or signal the assembler that the connection is complete. In one embodiment not shown, similar male and female members are provided on the base section and side panel for similar reasons. 
         [0035]    It should also be pointed out that the panels can be designed such that a side panel is sized to be slidably connected to an end panel receiving cavity (not shown). Such embodiment can occur if the end panel  140  is rounded and the side panel  120  is flat at the corner connection. 
         [0036]    As shown in  FIG. 4 , in one embodiment, the base end  210  comprises L-shaped female side panel interlocking members  229  that can slidably connect to an L-shaped male side panel locking member  129 . Similarly, the base end  210  comprises an L-shaped female end panel interlocking member  249  that can slidably connect to an L-shaped male end panel locking member  149 . It should be pointed out that while the embodiment depicted and discussed with reference to  FIG. 4  is directed towards L-shaped slots, any shape (tapered or untapered, L-shaped, T-shaped, etc.), number, and combination (male member on base and female on panel or female on panel and male on base) of interlocking-shaped members that can be used to slidably connect the base section  210  to the side panel  120  and/or end panel  140  does not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention. 
         [0037]      FIG. 5   a  is an exploded perspective side view depicting the connection of two side panels  120  by a wedge member  130  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Although the wedge member  130  shown depicts three pair of T-shaped female slots  132 , the wedge member  130  can comprise any combination (number, shape, placement of male/female) of interlocking members. In one aspect, an interlocking member is a male member or a female member. Providing interlocking members as an integral part of the side panels, end panels, and base section allows the interlocking in as many places as is required without the need for a separate weld, nail, screw, nut, bolt, or adhesive. In one embodiment, the wedge member  130  comprises one or more female T-shaped slots. Further, the wedge member  130  can comprise one or more pairs of T-shaped male protrusions and/or one or more pairs of T-shaped female slots. Similarly, the side panels  120  can comprise one or more pairs of T-shaped male protrusions or female slots. In one embodiment the T-shaped female slots  132  and T-shaped male protrusions  134  disposed on the side panels  120  are tapered. Thus, in one embodiment, the male T-shaped protrusions  134  comprise a first distance D 1  at the inner portion of the side panel  120  and a second, larger distance D 2  at the outer portion of the side panel  120 . Similarly, in one embodiment, the female T-shaped slots  132  comprise a first distance D 1  at the inner portion of the female slot  132  and a second, larger distance D 2  at the outer portion of the female slot  132 . Of course, the tapering can be reversed resulting in a second, smaller distance D 2 . The male protrusions  134  and female T-shaped slots  132  slidably connect to adjoin the two side panels  120  in a sturdy fashion. In one embodiment, the wedge  130  and side panel are sized to maximize contact between the outer wedge periphery  131  and a portion of the inner side panel periphery  121 . Male  136  and female  138  locking members can be provided to lock the wedge member  130  into place between the two side panels  120 . 
         [0038]    Although not necessary, in one embodiment, the first side panel  120  comprises a plurality of tapered or non-tapered integral alignment protrusions  182  that can be aligned with a plurality of corresponding tapered or non-tapered alignment slots  184  integral to a second side panel  120 . A locking frame  135  on the wedge member  130  can be used to lock the alignment protrusions  182  and alignment slots  184  in place and help absorb any shock loads on the sidewall assembly. 
         [0039]    The above-described configuration is beneficial for several reasons. First, the wedge member  130  permits side panels  120  to be fastened together with virtually no tools. At most, a rubber mallet may be required to force the wedge member  130  into place between the two side panels  120 . Second, the configuration of the T-shaped protrusions and slots distributes any forces or tension placed on the wall joint over a larger area. Third, because the T-shaped protrusions and slots are oriented parallel to any normal forces exerted on the panels, e.g. forces that are perpendicular to the plane of the side panels, a sturdy connection can be made at the joint between the two side panels  120 . Thus, the T-shaped protrusions and slots provide a resistance to forces normal to the side panel connection. Fourth, because the connection is intuitive to the user, the design facilitates assembly. Fifth, because no screws or nails are required, the connection can be made relatively quickly leading to more efficient casket assembly. Further, such connection is superior to nuts, bolts, screws, or nails because the fastening force is distributed over a larger surface area. Sixth, the connection can also be disassembled with few or no tools. 
         [0040]    While several embodiments discussed above are directed towards T-shaped protrusions and slots, any type and number of tapered or non-tapered interlocking-shaped members can be used to slidably connect two side panels  120  together with a wedge member  130  without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example,  FIG. 5   b  is an exploded perspective side view depicting the connection of two side panels  120  by a wedge member  130  in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Referring to  FIG. 5   b , the I-shaped wedge member  130  comprises a hollow cylinder comprising a slot  132  in the center of the hollow cylinder. The side panel  120  comprises a smaller cylindrical protrusion  134  sized such that it can be snugly placed into the slot  132 . In one embodiment, the wedge  130  and an integral portion of the inner side panel periphery  121  are sized to maximize contact between the outer wedge periphery  131  and a portion of the inner side panel periphery  121 . The protrusion  134  and corresponding slot  132  can be tapered or non-tapered and may have male or female members (not shown) similar to those identified as numerals  136  and  138  in  FIG. 4  to help the wedge member snap into place. Further, in one embodiment, another fastening means including but not limited to a wingnut with or without a washer (not shown), cotter pin or other device can be inserted through the protrusion  134  and slot  132 . 
         [0041]    Further, other ways of fastening the side panels with minimal use of tools can also be provided without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In one embodiment, casket components such as two or more side panels are pressure fit together. In one embodiment, two or more side panels are pressure fit together by a twist lock fastener. For example,  FIG. 5   c  is an exploded perspective side view depicting the connection of two side panels  180  by a twist lock fastener in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 5   c , each side panel  180  can be molded to include a plurality of cam receiving housings  280 . An aperture  186  can be provided adjacent the housing  280  to permit placement of a dowel  284 . A first side panel  180  can comprise a plurality of tapered or non-tapered alignment protrusions  182  that can be aligned with a plurality of corresponding tapered or non-tapered alignment slots  184  integral to a second side panel  180 . The alignment slots  184  and alignment protrusions  182  can help to align the two side panels  180  during assembly. The first and second side panels  180  can then be pressure-fit and secured together by a twist lock fastener. In the embodiment shown, the twist lock fastener comprises two cams  282  and a dowel  284 . The dowel  284  is placed into a housing  280  and through the aperture  186  such that the dowel  284  resides partially in a housing  280  of each side panel  180 . A cam  282  can then be placed into each housing  280  over the dowel  284  and each cam  282  can then be turned in the direction of the arrow  286  to secure the side panels  180  together. Although the cam  282  can be configured such that it can be turned with a screwdriver as is depicted in  FIG. 5   c , the cam  282 , in an embodiment not shown, can also be configured to have an extension similar to a wing nut that can be hand-tightened to help reduce the number of or eliminate all tools required for assembly. In one embodiment, a single cam can be used with a dowel designed for single cam fastening. 
         [0042]      FIG. 6   a  is a perspective view showing how the base section can be further secured to a side panel in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As depicted in  FIG. 4 , the base section  210  slidably connects to the side panel  120  and the clip  240 , as depicted in  FIG. 6   a , can be used merely add support and help secure the connection under heavier loads. One or more clips  240  can be used to further secure each side of a base end  210  and/or a middle base portion  220  to the side panel  120  and/or the end panel  140 . In one embodiment, one or more clips  240  are used at or near joints between the base end  210  and the middle base portion  220 . Such configuration is beneficial for several reasons. 
         [0043]    First, the clips  240  permit the side panels  120  to be securely fastened to the base end  210  or middle base portion  220  with no tools. Second, because the connection is intuitive to the user, the design facilitates assembly. Third, because no screws or nails are required, the connection can be made relatively quickly leading to more efficient casket assembly. 
         [0044]    In one embodiment, the clip  240  mouth is designed to be slightly smaller than the ribs inside a side panel  120  or end panel  140  (not shown) or the base end  210  and/or base portion  220 . This enables the clip  240  to pressure-fit onto and retain the ribs of the side panel  120  and portion of the base end  210  and/or base portion  220  to better secure the connection between the side panel  120  and any base section  210   220 . Also depicted in  FIG. 6   a  is a side panel handrail receiving member  124  which is discussed in more detail below. 
         [0045]      FIG. 6   b  is a perspective view depicting a base section in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. A portion  612  of the base section  610  is disposed on the side panel ledge  232 . A stiffening bar  630 , made of metal or plastic, can be placed into a housing  632  disposed near the side panel ledge  232 . In one embodiment, the housing  632  is integral with the side panel  180 . A joint protrusion  640  can be provided to help hold the base section  610  in the proper position during and after assembly. 
         [0046]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a partially constructed casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, one or more side panel handrail receiving members  124  are formed integrally with each side panel  120 . In an alternative embodiment (not shown), one or more handrail receiving members are formed integrally with a base section. Thus, in one embodiment, at least one side panel or base section further comprises one or more handrail receiving members  124  wherein the handrail receiving member is integral to the side panel or base section. One advantage of an integral handrail receiving member  124  is that forces imparted through the hole to the handrail receiving member  124  by a handrail are spread more evenly over a larger area than would occur if the handrail receiving member  124  were attached by some type of fastener. Consequently, an integral handrail receiving member  124  has greater strength and can withstand a heavier load that a non-integral, fastened handrail receiving member. Another advantage is that the hole in the handrail receiving member can be formed at the same time as the side panel or base section resulting in less assembly to the end-user. 
         [0047]      FIG. 8  is a perspective view depicting the pallbearer handrail  160  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to  FIG. 7  and  FIG. 8 , the side panel handrail receiving members  124  each comprise a hole for insertion of the handrail  160 . In one embodiment, the handrail  160  comprises four separate rails; two long handrails disposed through the handrail receiving members  124  and two shorter handrails adjacent the end panels  140 . Once the casket in  FIG. 7  has been constructed, decorative handrail covers  126  can be snap-fit over the side panel  120  handrail receiving members  124 . The decorative handrail covers  126   146   156  can comprise any decorative design feature including a cross or other emblem. The long handrails can then be inserted through the holes in the receiving members  124 . The shorter handrails can then be inserted through the decorative end panel covers  146  and through the four corner handrail covers  156 . One advantage of such a configuration is that it permits attachment of a handrail without the use of tools. A coupling or corner union (not shown) inside the corner handrail covers  156  connects the shorter handrails to the longer handrails. Any of the decorative handrail covers  126   146   156  can be attached by any number of ways including a snap-fit connection, a fastener connection including a nut or bolt or screw, an adhesive such as double-sided tape, and/or can be held into place by the handrail  160  itself. In one embodiment, the handrail  160  comprises two separate rails adjacent the side panels  120 . 
         [0048]      FIG. 9   a  is a partial cutaway exploded view of the inside of one end of the casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 9   b  is an exploded perspective view depicting the hinge assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to  FIGS. 9   a  and  9   b , the hinge assembly  400  comprises a hinge base  410  slidably connected into a hinge slot  420 , wherein the hinge slot  420  is located on the top portion of the side panel  120 . Two pieces comprising a hinge pin  440  can be placed into a receiving hole in the hinge base  410  and press-fit together. In one embodiment, the entire hinge assembly  400  is made from an injection molded plastic. One or more hinge pin  440  receiving members  450  can be integral to the first lid section  310  and/or second lid section  320 . In one embodiment, screws  435  can be used to attach a hinge bracket  430  to the lid  310   320 . In one embodiment, only a screwdriver is needed to attach the hinge assembly  400  to the lid  310   320 . Consequently, in one embodiment of the present invention, the casket can be assembled with minimal tools, the only tools potentially necessary being a screwdriver and a rubber mallet. It should also be pointed out that the screws  435  can be replaced with a screw having a configuration that can permit the hinge to be fastened to the lid  310   320  in a manner that requires no tools. For example, a pair of screws  435  having an extension similar to a wing nut that can be hand-tightened can be used. In one embodiment, such extension does not exceed the diameter of the head of the screw  435 . In one embodiment, a cotter-pin type fastener is used. Thus, some embodiments of the present invention provide a modular casket that requires no tools for assembly. 
         [0049]      FIG. 9   c  is a partial exploded perspective view depicting the lid assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to  FIGS. 9   a  and  9   c , a lid frame  330  can be placed about the inner periphery of the lid  310 . The lid frame  330  can be injection molded such that a plurality of metal heart-shaped clips  314  can be snap-fit onto the lid frame  330 , as best shown by  FIG. 9   a . The mouth end of the metal clip  314  can engage a corresponding rib on the lid  310  to hold the lid frame  330  in place. Because the metal clip  314  comprises a sharp mouth surface, the mouth surface can grip an adjoining rib. A lid frame can similarly be joined to any other lid sections including a second lid section  320 . 
         [0050]      FIG. 9   d  is a partial cutaway view depicting the end of the casket from the inside in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to  FIGS. 9   a  and  9   d , in one embodiment, the casket comprises a casket frame  340  and gasket  350  disposed about the outer, upper perimeter of the side panels  120  and end panels  140 . The casket frame  340  can provide aesthetic features such as a lip  342 . The casket frame  340  can be attached to the side panels  120  and end panels  140  by a plurality of metal clips  344  in the same manner that the lid frame is attached to the lid  310  as discussed above. 
         [0051]    In one embodiment, a fabric covers the inside of the side panels  120  and end panels  140 . The fabric can be attached to the upper side panels  120  and end panels  140  by the metal clips  344 . In one embodiment, a pan  230  is placed in the bottom of the casket. A fabric material may or may not also cover the pan  230 . In one embodiment an inflatable air mattress is also placed into the casket to provide the desired elevation of the body in an open casket or other ceremony. The gasket  350  can be attached by an adhesive. A simple arm assembly  360  can be attached to the lid locking arm mount  362  and the end panel locking arm mount  364  to prevent the lid from opening too widely. Each of these arm mounts  362   364  can be integrally injection molded with their respective pieces. Also shown in  FIG. 9   d  are the wingnuts  148  used to fasten the decorative end panel handrail cover to the outside of the end panel  140 . 
         [0052]      FIG. 10   a  is a partial cutaway view of the portion labeled  FIG. 10A  in  FIG. 9   a  depicting the locking mechanism in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 10   b  is an alternative partial cutaway view depicting the locking mechanism depicted in  FIG. 10   a . Referring to  FIGS. 10   a  and  10   b , in one embodiment, a latch assembly comprises a clip  514 , a male latch  510 , and a female latch  530 . In one embodiment, the clip  514  comprises a raised collar  516  that can be press fit around the cylindrical tip  518  integral to the latch  510 . In one embodiment, the mouth of the clip  514  can then be press-fit onto a rib  312  integral to a lid section  310   320 . A female latch  530  can be slidably attached to the top portion of the sidewall  120 . A male latch ledge  512  mates with a female latch ledge  532  after insertion into the female latch  530 . One advantage of such configuration is that no latches are visible on the outside of the casket. Thus, the latch is not fastened to an outer periphery of the side panel or lid. 
         [0053]    To open, a rigid, flat card (e.g. a credit-card like object) can be placed between the lid frame  330  and the side panel  120  and can be used to push the male latch  510  inward to permit the lid  310  to open. In one embodiment a resilient, rubber-like L-shaped gasket  350  is about the upper perimeter of the side panel  120  and the credit card-like object can press a portion of the gasket  350  into the male latch  510  to permit the lid  310  to open. 
         [0054]    One skilled in the art would recognize that such feature could be reversed and in one embodiment the female latch portion  530  is attached to the lid  310   320  and the male portion  510  extends from the side panel  120 . Similarly, one skilled in the art would recognize that both the female latch  530  and male latch  510  can be attached to the lid  310   320  or the side panel  120  by a clip or by a pressure-fit mount. The present invention should therefore be construed to include all embodiments wherein male  510  or female latch  530  is attached to a lid  310   320 , and wherein further said male latch  510  or said female latch  530  removably fastens the lid  310   320  to the side panel  120 , wherein said latch assembly is snap-fit together. Another advantage of such configuration is that no tools are required to attach the latch assembly to the side panel  120  or lid  310   320 . In one embodiment, the male latch  510  is secured to the lid with one or more screws. 
         [0055]      FIG. 11  is a top perspective view of the casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Like traditional caskets, the present casket provides an open casket viewing option. 
         [0056]      FIG. 12  is a simplified perspective view of illustrating the packing configuration of the kit for making a modular casket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 12 , the various parts of the casket can be efficiently packaged as a kit in compact form for shipment or storage until partial or full assembly is desired. In one embodiment, the lid sections  310  can be adjacent one another and alternatively nested. The side panels  120  can be can be grouped together between the lid section  310  and a base pan  230 . Nested within the base pan  230  can be one or more nested base sections (not shown). Adjacent end panels  140  can be oriented perpendicular to the side panels  120  or lid  310 . In one embodiment (not shown), the kit comprises two end panels, two sidewalls and a base section. It should be pointed out that the exemplary packing configuration depicted in  FIG. 12  is for purposes of illustration and not for purposes of limitation. Any compact or efficient shipping configuration can be used that minimizes the storage volume required by a disassembled casket. In one embodiment, the stored or packaged volume of the casket is approximately 50% less than the assembled volume or volume of the casket when fully assembled. The disassembled casket comprising the kit for making the modular casket can then be placed into a shipping container to protect the casket from damage during shipment. 
         [0057]    In one embodiment, the present invention is directed towards a modular casket, wherein the cavity of the assembled modular casket is sealed to prevent gaseous and/or liquid fluids from leaking out of the casket through a seam that exists as a consequence of assembly. As used herein, a modular casket is a casket having one or more side panels, base sections, and end panels assembled to one another to define a cavity for placement of a deceased. 
         [0058]      FIG. 13  is a partial exploded perspective view depicting various seal locations in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment, once the base section has been attached to the opposed side panels  120  and opposed end panels  140 , a plurality of liquid seals can be placed at the various seams. As used herein, a liquid seal is defined as a seal that functions prevent liquid or gaseous fluids from leaking out a seam of a modular casket. The seals can be made of a plastic, rubber, or elastomeric material. In one embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 13 , the liquid seals are applied to seams that occur as a consequence of assembly of the various pieces. Consequently, in the embodiment depicted in  FIG. 13 , the liquid seals are applied after the pieces forming the seams have been assembled. In one embodiment, the liquid seals that seal the various seams between the base section and the side panels  120  and end panels  140  can comprise a pressure sensitive adhesive and/or tape that cover the seams of the assembly between the base section and sidewall and end panels. In one embodiment, the liquid seals comprise an elastomeric tape with glue on a first side. In one embodiment, the tape is about 40 mm in width and about 1 mm thick. In one embodiment, the area where the seal is to be applied is cleaned with or without a solvent and dried if necessary prior to applying a seal. In one embodiment, an epoxy, glue or other suitable material is placed into the seam prior to application of a seal comprising a pressure sensitive adhesive. In one embodiment, one or more of the seals depicted in  FIG. 13  comprises an epoxy, glue, or other suitable liquid sealant material. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 13 , the casket comprises at least two middle-to-base end seals  610  that provide a liquid seal between the base end  210  and the middle panel  220 . 
         [0059]    In one embodiment, the present invention comprises at least two middle-to-side panel seals  620  that provide a liquid seal between the middle panel  220  and at least a portion of one or more side panels comprising a sidewall. In one embodiment, the casket comprises at least two base end-to-side panel seal  630  that provides a seal between the base end  210  and at least a portion of at least one of the side panels  120  making up the sidewall. In one embodiment, the present invention comprises at least two base end-to-end panel seals  640  that provide a liquid seal between the base end  210  and the end panel  140 . 
         [0060]      FIG. 14   a  is a perspective view depicting a side panel-to-end panel seal  740  in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 14   a , prior to attaching the end panel  140  to a side panel  120 , the side panel-to-end panel seal  740  can be placed on the vertical sides  141   142  of the end panel  140  at least about the outer-most outward facing perimeter of the end panel  140 . In such embodiment, the side panel-to-end panel seal  740  preferably comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive on both a first side to facilitate bonding with an end panel  140  and on a second side to facilitate bonding with a side panel  120  upon slidable attachment of the end panel  140  and side panel  120 . 
         [0061]      FIG. 14   b  is a perspective view depicting a side panel-to-side panel seal  720  in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 14   b , a side panel to side panel seal  720  can be attached to the outer facing perimeter of at least one of the two side panels to provide a seal between the side panels once they have been slidably connected and pressure fit together by, for example, a wedge member or in any other way contemplated by the present invention. 
         [0062]      FIG. 15   a  is a partial exploded perspective view depicting a support member in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 15   a , at least one support member  810  and preferably a U-shaped support member  810  is attached to each sidewall that is shown in  FIG. 15   a  as opposing sidewalls and to each base section. Consequently, in one embodiment, a U-shaped support member  810  is attached in at least three places to the modular casket. In one embodiment, the support member  810  is substantially tubular in cross-section and can comprise a metal, a plastic or other suitable material. In one embodiment, the support is extruded as a round, square, or triangular hollow rod and then configured, through bending, into a U-shaped support adapted to attach within the cavity of the casket as shown in  FIG. 15   a . In one embodiment, each vertical side of the support member  810  is attached to a handrail receiving member  124  by a single screw that fastens both the handrail receiving member  124  and the support member  810  to the side panel  120 . In one embodiment each vertical side of a U-shaped support member  810  is attached to a handrail receiving member  124 . In one embodiment at least two support members  810  are attached to said modular casket and in one embodiment between about two and about four support members  810  are used. A screw or other fastening means well known in the art can be used. 
         [0063]      FIG. 15   b  is a partial exploded perspective view depicting a rod  820  in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment, each sidewall comprises one or more rods  820  secured along at least a portion of the length of the sidewall to provide reinforcement along the longitudinal axis of the casket. In one embodiment, placement of one or more rods  820  is achieved after casket assembly by removing a removable portion  830  of the end panel  140  and by placing the rod  820  through a plurality of apertures  840  placed into the ribs of the inner sidewall. Such embodiment advantageously permits easy removal of a metal rod  820  and permits the casket, made of entirely of plastic materials in one embodiment, to be recycled in regions where caskets are buried for a limited time. Further, if cremation occurs, the rods can be removed prior to cremation without disassembling the casket. In an alternative embodiment, one or more rods can be secured to a sidewall by a plurality of screws or other fastening means well known in the art. 
         [0064]    The rigidity of a modular plastic casket is greatly improved by the use of one or more rods  820  and one or more support members  810 . One way to measure rigidity improvement is to compare how much the casket flexes or the height that can be achieved when lifting a corner of the casket while at the same time keeping the two corners on the far opposite side tightly attached to the floor. In one embodiment, a modular casket made of thermoplastic components flexes up to two inches (e.g., a lifting corner can be lifted up to two inches while the far opposite corners are held down) without any rods  820  or support members  810 . The addition of two cylindrical 1-inch diameter support rods made from steel and placed into each sidewall and the addition of one U-shaped support member  810  attached to opposing sidewalls and a base section flexes only ¼-inches. Consequently, in one embodiment, use of support members  810  and rods  820  improves rigidity by a factor of eight. 
         [0065]    The present invention provides numerous advantages over the prior art. First, the plastic caskets of the present invention are less expensive to fabricate than the traditional wood or steel caskets. Second, the casket can be easily shipped as a more compact set of parts than a traditional wood or steel casket, or a non-modular casket fabricated from other materials. Further, because plastic is lighter than wood or metal, the casket of the present invention is not only less expensive to ship, but easier to handle, both in unassembled and assembled form. Further, the casket can be easily moved and stored. 
         [0066]    Third, the casket of the present invention can be quickly and easily constructed and assembled by a funeral home or by an individual with little or no assembly experience. The only tools that may be required include a rubber mallet and a screwdriver. The assembly of the snap-fit and pressure-fit pieces is intuitive in the way in which the pieces are put together. Such advantages can be useful in areas of natural disasters. Such advantage also provides the ability to direct-market the casket to consumers through a phone number or web-site without the added expense of a middle man. Further, the casket can be marketed to consumers through stores by-passing the traditional funeral home and resultant mark-up. 
         [0067]    Fourth, the casket is made of materials that is more durable than the prior art caskets. For example, unlike wood, plastic does not swell or deform. Unlike metal, plastic does not rust or dent. Further, when the casket of the present invention is packed, it can be shipped without worry of exposure to the elements. For example, the caskets and casket kits of the present invention can be stored outside with worry of exposure to the elements including, but not limited to temperature, humidity, moisture, blowing sand, etc. Such advantage can be useful in areas of natural disasters. Wood, on the other hand, must be stored in controlled climate conditions. Similarly, metal-type caskets, if subjected to high humidity or moisture conditions, are susceptible to rust, especially if any scratches were made through the painted metal during shipment. Thus, the present invention provides a casket that is more durable under both shipping and storage conditions. 
         [0068]    Fifth, the casket can be made to emulate the caskets of wood design or steel designs. For example, a wood grain finish can be imparted into the injection molded plastic. Further, rounded corners used in wood caskets can be provided in plastic caskets of the present invention. Further, the color of the plastic can be easily changed to emulate steel-type colors. Moreover, the casket of the present invention has the same accessories as caskets of the prior art. Consequently, the present invention provides a casket having a similar look and design as prior art caskets with lower costs. Thus, there is little or no stigma attached to using a casket made from less expensive plastic materials of the present invention. 
         [0069]    It will now be evident to those skilled in the art that there has been described herein a modular casket or coffin. The terms and expressions employed herein have been used as terms of description and not of limitation; and thus, there is no intent of excluding equivalents, but on the contrary it is intended to cover any and all equivalents that may be employed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 
         [0070]    In sum, while this invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.