Abstract:
A storage system for single serve beverage devices is provided. The storage system includes a slidable rack, capable of being positioned or mounted within a variety of known or preexisting features and having a plurality of apertures for selectively storing the devices. Beverage devices include, for example, pods or K-Cups® for providing single-serve coffee, espresso, hot chocolate, or tea drinks.

Description:
[0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/550,758, filed Oct. 24, 2011, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention relates generally to storage systems. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention relates to a retractable device capable of storing a plurality of coffee, tea, espresso, or beverage features, such as “pods” or K-Cups® sold by Keurig, for example. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Single serve brewing and dispensing devices for beverages such as espresso, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and related products have become immensely popular. Many systems provide single serve drinks from individually sized cups or pods (hereinafter “pods”) containing a predetermined dosage of, for example, ground espresso or coffee. Such systems are disclosed, by way of example only, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,210,401 to Rolfes et al., which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. There is a need to provide an efficient storage system for the numerous pods that are typically kept on hand in the home or in an establishment which uses pod-based brewing systems. There has been a long felt need for a storage system for single serve pods and similar devices and products which is capable of effectively storing and/or concealing a number of pods such that the pods are readily available for use, disposed, and/or displayed in an orderly manner. None of the known storage systems provide a system that conceals pods and that also provides ease of access to the pods when desired. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention contemplate novel systems, methods, and devices for storing one or more espresso pods in an orderly manner. In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a substantially planar rack that is slidably mounted within various pre-existing cabinetry systems. For example, in a particular embodiment, the present invention comprises a slide-out rack having a predetermined length, width, and thickness wherein the thickness is relatively small or marginal compared to the overall length and width of the device. The length and width define a surface area which comprises an array or plurality of apertures for receiving pods. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the present invention comprises a slide-out rack for housing a plurality of pods, wherein the rack is slidably mountable within a preexisting cabinet or similar structure such that the device and any contents contained therein occupy a relatively small volume of the pre-existing cabinet or structure. The contemplated storage device thus allows for the device and its contents to be stored in a convenient and aesthetically pleasing manner, while allowing ease of access to device contents (e.g., K-Cups® or espresso pods) when desired. As used herein, the term “planar” or “substantially planar” refers to a surface that is generally flush, but may comprise undulations or surface contours that do not significantly alter the shape or functionality of the surface. Similarly, the term “substantially” as used herein is provided to specify that relatively minor variations in the size, shape, dimension, material property, etc. of a specific object are contemplated as within the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0005]    Slidable racks of embodiments of the present invention may be constructed of a variety of different materials as will be recognized by one of skill in the art. In one embodiment, a storage device is provided wherein a slidable rack for housing pods is of the same or similar material and/or appearance of material as the pre-existing cabinetry or associated structures. Where pre-existing cabinetry comprises, for example, a particular type of wood, the slidable rack of the present invention may comprise the same type of wood or comprise at least the same or similar appearance. However, the present invention is not limited to slide-out racks which comprise the same material, appearance, or properties as that of the surrounding cabinetry. Slide-out racks of the present invention may be comprised of any number of materials including, but not limited to various woods, rock, slate, Lucite, plastics, metals, glass, synthetics, and various other materials and combinations thereof. 
         [0006]    In various embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the storing of K-Cups® or espresso pods or similar devices. For example, it is contemplated that devices and systems of the present invention comprise functionality in addition to the storage of K-Cups® or espresso pods, including, for example, the ability to use a slide-out rack portion of the system as a cutting board or storage area to extend counter space. In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a system for storing espresso pods wherein a slide-out rack is provided with a plurality of predetermined apertures for storing the pods and an additional substantially planar cover for the slide-out rack upon which devices may be stored, chopped, etc. 
         [0007]    In one embodiment, the slide out rack of the present invention comprises a plurality of holes wherein the holes are of a predetermined size to store or house a pod of predetermined size. The holes have a diameter greater than the minimum diameter of the pod and less than the maximum diameter of the pod. In alternative embodiments, however, it is contemplated that the apertures of the present invention be of varying diameter. Alternatively, the apertures may receive spacers or inserts to vary the size thereof such that a variety of different sized pods may be held within an aperture. 
         [0008]    While some embodiments of the present invention contemplate a storage system comprising a retractable rack provided within pre-existing cabinetry, such as under-sink cabinetry, for example, alternative embodiments contemplate providing a rack or plurality racks in a standalone system. For example, in one embodiment, a counter-top device is provided having one or more slidable racks in accordance with present invention and adapted for storing and/or concealing a plurality of pods or K-Cups®. 
         [0009]    These and other advantages will be apparent from the disclosure of the invention(s) contained herein. The above-described embodiments, objectives, and configurations are neither complete nor exhaustive. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the invention are possible using, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below. Further, the summary of the invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. The present invention is set forth in various levels of detail in the summary of the invention, as well as, in the attached drawings and the detailed description of the invention and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended to either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this summary of the invention. Additional aspects of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the detailed description, particularly when taken together with the drawings. 
         [0010]    The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitation as to the scope of the present disclosure is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention. Additional aspects of the present disclosure will become more readily apparent from the Detailed Description, particularly when taken together with the drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0011]    Those of skill in the art will recognize that the following description is merely illustrative of the principles of the disclosure, which may be applied in various ways to provide many different alternative embodiments. This description is made for illustrating the general principles of the teachings of this disclosure invention and is not meant to limit the inventive concepts disclosed herein. 
           [0012]    The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the general description of the disclosure given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosures. 
           [0013]    It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein. 
           [0014]      FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of a retractable storage system of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0015]      FIG. 2  is a bottom perspective view of a retractable storage system of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0016]      FIG. 3  is a top plan view of a retractable storage system of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0017]      FIG. 4  is a front elevation view of a retractable storage system of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0018]      FIG. 5  is a right elevation view of a retractable storage system of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0019]      FIG. 6  is a bottom plan view of a retractable storage system of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0020]      FIG. 7  is a left elevation view of a retractable storage system of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0021]      FIG. 8  is a rear elevation view of a retractable storage system of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0022]      FIG. 9  is a front perspective view of a retractable storage system of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0023]      FIG. 10  is a front perspective view of a retractable storage system of one embodiment of the present invention; and 
           [0024]      FIG. 11  is a front perspective view of a retractable storage system of one embodiment of the present invention. 
       
    
    
       [0025]    The present invention has significant benefits across a broad spectrum of endeavors. It is the applicant&#39;s intent that this specification be accorded a breadth in keeping with the scope and spirit of the invention being disclosed despite what might appear to be limiting language imposed by the requirements of referring to the specific examples disclosed. To acquaint persons skilled in the pertinent arts most closely related to the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the method that illustrates the best mode now contemplated for putting the invention into practice is described herein by, and with reference to, the annexed drawings that form a part of the specification. The exemplary method is described in detail without attempting to describe all of the various forms and modifications in which the invention might be embodied. As such, the embodiments described herein are illustrative, and as will become apparent to those skilled in the arts, can be modified in numerous ways within the scope and spirit of the invention. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0026]    The detailed description is to be construed as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment since describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. Numerous alternative embodiments could be implemented, using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent. 
         [0027]    As shown in  FIGS. 1-8 , a storage system of the present disclosure is provided wherein a slidable storage rack  2  is depicted. The slidable rack  2  comprises a plurality of apertures  6  for storing pods (not shown). Pods, as contemplated for use with the present disclosure generally comprise a tapered geometry and/or a lid or top which is larger in diameter than the bottom of the pod. Accordingly, the apertures  6  allow for a pod to be dropped or placed in an aperture  6  from above and held therein by virtue of the pod&#39;s geometry and the fact that the diameter of the aperture  6  is less than a diameter of the pod. 
         [0028]    As shown in the figures, a preferred embodiment contemplates pods being placed or disposed in apertures  6  of the rack  2  with a portion of the height of the pod extending downwardly through the slidable rack  2 . However, it will be expressly recognized that various other arrangements and geometries are further contemplated as within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, it is contemplated that a slidable rack  2  be provided with a thickness (t) which is approximately equal to or greater than a height of a pod. It will further be recognized, therefore, that the overall and exact thickness (t) of the slidable rack  2  is not critical. Rather, embodiments of the present invention contemplate a unique and novel storage system wherein the slidable rack  2  comprises a thickness (t) that is substantially less than a length and/or width of the slidable rack. 
         [0029]    Various embodiments of the present invention comprise a system with a slidable rack  2  for storing pods, the slidable rack having a length (L) of between approximately 12 inches and approximately 36 inches, a width between approximately 12 inches and approximately 36 inches, and a thickness (t) of between approximately ½ inch and approximately 1.5 inches. In a preferred embodiment, the present disclosure comprises a storage rack  2  with a thickness (t) of approximately ⅝ inches, a length (L) of approximately 23.5 inches, and a width (W) of approximately 20 inches. It will be expressly recognized, however, that racks of some embodiments of the present invention are not limited to such dimensions. It is contemplated that racks comprising various features as shown and described herein may take on any suitable dimension as may be required for the rack(s) to fit within a cabinet, drawer, closer, shelf, etc. 
         [0030]    As further shown in the drawings, slidable racks of storage systems of the present disclosure preferably comprise sliding mechanisms. Sliding mechanisms similar to, but not being limited to, various known sliding drawer and/or roller bearing systems. For example, a track  4  may be provided and secured along peripheral edges of the slidable rack  2  for slidable communication with wheels or bearings in association with cabinetry systems and vice versa. Alternative embodiments of the present invention may employ simple tongue and groove and/or frictional sliding mechanism(s) wherein a slidable rack  2  is vertically supported by a portion of the existing cabinetry to the exclusion of elements such as wheels and/or bearings upon which the rack  2  is slidable. 
         [0031]    In various embodiments, and as shown in  FIG. 6 , a storage system comprising a slidable rack  2  is provided wherein the slidable rack  2  comprises a grip feature  8 , such as a recess in a lower or bottom portion of the rack. While  FIG. 8  depicts a grip feature  8  as shown in the bottom front portion of the rack  2 , it will be recognized that such a grip feature may be positioned in a variety of locations including, but not limited to, top and side portions of the rack  2 . Furthermore, grip features of the present disclosure are not limited to a singular recess but may comprise one or more of a variety of features such as recesses, frictional pads, protrusions, etc. 
         [0032]    In a preferred embodiment, a storage system is provided comprising a slidable rack  2  for housing a plurality of pods, the slidable rack  2  disposed in a generally upper portion of a cabinet, rack, closet, or similar feature. In such a preferred arrangement, it will be recognized that a slidable rack  2  and contents disposed therein will be positioned in an elevated manner such that the remainder of the storage volume of a cabinet, for example, is not substantially impeded. Furthermore, when access to pods or features contained within the slidable rack  2  is desired, the rack may be withdrawn or extracted from its stored position where it occupies a relatively small amount of space. 
         [0033]    In one embodiment, each of the apertures  6  for storing a pod comprises an extension or access point to enable a user to contact or grasp at least a portion of an underside of the lid or top of a pod, thereby facilitating removal of the pod from the rack  2 . 
         [0034]      FIGS. 7-8  provide a side elevation view and a front elevation view, respectively, of one embodiment of a rack  2  in accordance with the present disclosure. Relative length L, width W, and thickness t of the rack  2  is depicted. 
         [0035]      FIG. 9  is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present disclosure. In addition to various features as shown and described herein, the embodiment of  FIG. 9  comprises a frame member  10  with a removable inlay panel or insert  12 , the panel comprises apertures  6  for selectively storing features such as K-Cups® and pods. The frame  10  can be built or molded in any number of sizes and dimensions and may comprise slide features molded and/or built in. The inlay panel  12  can be customized with any number size/shape of holes  6  to accommodate any brand/size/shape pods or capsules. In various embodiments, the panel  12  is made of any material desired, such as wood, medium-density fiberboard (“MDF”), plastic, glass, acrylic, etc. and, in various embodiments, is customized by a consumer with pictures, laminate, etc. 
         [0036]    Although the inlay panel  12  of  FIG. 9  is provided as rectangular, any number of sizes and dimensions may be provided. In preferred embodiments, the panel  12  is selectively removable and may be replaced with, for example, a panel comprising different numbers and/or types of apertures  6 . The removable panel  12  may be removed for ease of cleaning and replacement. In various embodiments, a flush or solid insert is provided such that the system may be used as, for example, a cutting board or shelf. 
         [0037]    The insert  12  of the present disclosure can be built/molded in any size. The panel  12  can be customized by size/shape of holes to accommodate any brand/size/shape pods or capsules. Panel fasteners contemplated for use in securing the panel  12  include various known fasteners suitable for securing joining wood, plastic and various other known materials. 
         [0038]    One embodiment of the present invention includes a rack feature  2  with one or more rounded corners  14 . Rounded corners are provided to minimize scratching of cabinet features and reduce risk of injury to users. In yet another embodiment, substantially cylindrical rollers  16  are provided within or in connection with corners  14 . Rollers  16 , in at least one embodiment, comprise a substantially cylindrical structure comprised of scratch-resistant material and rotatable about an axis. The rollers  16  are provided within and/or partially recessed within the frame  10 , such that a portion of the circumference of the roller extends beyond the boundaries of the frame  10 . In such embodiments, rollers  16  provide scratch protection without occupying substantial amount of additional space within a cabinet. 
         [0039]    While a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an array of circular apertures  6  for storing pods, alternative embodiments of the present disclosure contemplate elongate or slot-like apertures  18  for storing a plurality of pods within a single aperture. One such embodiment is provided in  FIG. 11 . The elongate recesses  18  comprise at least one dimension (e.g., a width) that is less than a diameter of a pre-existing pod. Accordingly, a plurality of pods may be disposed and stored within the elongate slots  18 . In one embodiment, an inlet  12  or frame  10  is provided with a slight angle (e.g. between approximately 1 and 10 degrees off horizontal) to allow pods to be gravity fed or gravity-assisted toward a front end of the rack  2 . 
         [0040]      FIG. 11  depicts various features of embodiments of the present invention. It will be recognized, however, that these various feature are not limited to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 11 . Indeed, it is contemplated that any one or more of these features may be provided in alternative embodiments as shown and described herein. 
         [0041]    While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present invention. Further, the invention(s) described herein are capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purposes of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “adding” and variations thereof herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof, as well as, additional items.