ES3054801T3 - Container and latching system - Google Patents

Abstract

A container with a base and lid is provided. The lid can pivot on a hinge, transitioning from a closed to an open configuration, and can be secured by one or more locking assemblies. The locking assembly may consist of a locking body, a locking element, a pressure element, and an activation element. The container may include handles and features that increase its strength. The base and lid may also include attachment points for various accessories. A carrying strap may be attached to the base of the container to allow the user to lift and transport it. The container may also have wheels attached to the bottom or along the bottom, on one side of the side frame. Additionally, on containers with wheels, a pull handle may be attached to the side opposite the wheels. The lid may include a bracket that acts as an anchor plate for releasably securing objects, while also providing structural support to the lid.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Container and closure system

[0003] PRIOR ART STATEMENT

[0004] There are various types of containers and locking systems. Containers can be used for food, beverages, and other materials or items. Interlocking systems exist to lock containers in a closed configuration. However, conventional containers and interlocking systems are often not very durable and may not be easy to use. For example, containers may not be strong enough to hold certain items or to support items on top of them. In addition, some interlocking systems may activate when a user does not intend for the system to be engaged, and in other cases, they may not provide sufficient locking for the container. In such arrangements, these and other shortcomings can render the container and/or interlocking system practically useless.

[0005] US Patent 2020/216224 A1 describes a container comprising a base portion and a lid. The base portion includes a side wall structure having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The side wall structure also has a first end, a second end, and a bottom portion connected to a first end of the side wall structure and configured to support the container on a surface. The second end defines an opening configured to allow access to an interior void of the container formed by the side wall structure and the bottom portion. The container includes a lid that can rotate between an open and a closed configuration and covers the opening when the container is in the closed configuration. The container may also include an interlocking assembly having a locked position and an unlocked position. The container includes a retainer extending from the side wall structure and forming a pocket within the container. The retainer has a top surface, an inner surface, and a bottom surface. The interlocking assembly includes a retainer body, a locking element, a deflection element, and an actuating element. The retainer body is pivotally attached to the lid. The locking element is slidably attached to the retainer body, allowing it to move between an up and a down position. The locking element is configured to lock the lid in a closed configuration when it is in the down position and to unlock the lid when it is in the up position. The deflection element is coupled to both the retainer body and the locking element. It is configured to deflect the locking element in the down position. The locking element may include a hook portion. When the interlocking assembly is in the locked position, a lower surface of the hook portion of the locking element may engage the upper surface of the retainer, and an inward-facing surface of the hook portion may engage the inner surface of the retainer. The actuating element is coupled to the locking element and is configured to move the locking element from the down position to the up position. The actuating element may include an actuating cylinder, which in turn may include a raised portion.

[0006] BRIEF SUMMARY

[0007] This Summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in a simplified form, which are described in more detail below in the Detailed Description. The Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential characteristics of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0008] The invention is defined in the appended independent claim, to which reference shall now be made. In addition, optional features are defined in the related dependent claims.

[0009] According to the invention, a container comprising: (a) a base including: (1) a side wall structure having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, wherein the side wall structure has a first end and a second end; (2) a bottom portion connected to the first end of the side wall structure; (3) an opening formed at the second end of the side wall structure, opposite the first end, wherein the opening is configured to allow access to an interior void of the container formed by the side wall structure and the bottom portion; (4) a retainer extending from the side wall structure, wherein the retainer has an upper surface, an inner surface, and a lower surface; (b) a lid, the lid having an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein the lid is configured to cover the opening formed at the second end of the side wall structure when the container is in the closed configuration; and (c) a retainer assembly, wherein the retainer assembly has a locked position and an unlocked position. The interlocking assembly comprises: (1) a retainer body pivotally coupled to the lid; (2) a locking element slidably coupled to the retainer body, the locking element being slidable between at least a first position and a second position, the locking element being configured to lock the lid in the closed configuration when the locking element is in the first position and configured to unlock the lid when the locking element is in the second position; (3) at least one deflector element coupled to the retainer body and the locking element, the at least one deflector element deflecting the locking element in the first position; and (4) an actuator element coupled to the retainer body and configured to move the locking element from the first position to the second position, the actuator element comprising an actuation cylinder with a plurality of raised portions that are spaced apart from each other. A hook portion of the locking element engages the retainer when the interlocking assembly is in the locked position. The at least one deflection element may be located laterally between the plurality of raised portions. In some examples, the at least one deflection element may include two deflection elements that are positioned laterally between the plurality of raised portions. The locking element may have at least one coupling element that contacts a raised portion of the plurality of raised portions of the actuating cylinder. In addition, the at least one coupling element may include two coupling elements that are spaced apart, creating an opening between them. Each raised portion of the plurality of raised portions may have a substantially triangular shape. In some embodiments, the container may include a second locking assembly, wherein the second locking assembly may be located on a side opposite the container to the first locking assembly. Alternatively, the container may include a second locking assembly, wherein the second locking assembly may be located on an adjacent side of the container to the first locking assembly.

[0010] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The present invention is illustrated by way of example, without limitation, in the accompanying figures, in which the same reference numbers indicate similar elements and in which:

[0012] Figure 1A is a top, perspective view of an exemplary container that is not part of the invention.

[0014] Figure 1B is a top perspective view of the container in Figure 1A with the lid in the open position. Figure 2A is a bottom perspective view of the container in Figure 1A.

[0015] Figure 2B is a side view, in cross section, of the container in Figure 1A.

[0016] Figure 3 is a top, perspective view of the base portion of the container in Figure 1A.

[0017] Figure 4A is a bottom, perspective view of a portion of the base part of the container in Figure 1A.

[0018] Figure 4B is a top, perspective view of a handle of the container in Figure 1A.

[0019] Figure 4C is a top, perspective view of part of a handle.

[0020] Figure 4D is a side, cross-sectional view of a portion of a handle and container.

[0021] Figure 5A is a top perspective view of a portion of the lid of the container in Figure 1A. Figure 5B is a top perspective view of a portion of the base of the container in Figure 1A.

[0022] Figure 6A is a bottom rear perspective view of an exemplary interlocking assembly that is not part of the invention.

[0023] Figure 6B is a top rear perspective view of an exemplary interlocking assembly that is not part of the invention.

[0024] Figure 7A is a top front perspective view of an exemplary interlocking assembly that is not part of the invention.

[0025] Figure 7B is a bottom front perspective view of an exemplary interlocking assembly that is not part of the invention.

[0026] Figure 8 is a rear, perspective view of an exemplary interlocking assembly that is not part of the invention.

[0027] Figure 9 is a side view, in cross section, of an exemplary interlocking assembly that is not part of the invention.

[0028] Figures 10A-10D illustrate side, cross-sectional views of the movement of an exemplary interlocking assembly not part of the invention from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0029] Figures 11A-11C illustrate side, cross-sectional views of the movement of the interlocking assembly of Figures 10A-10D from an unlocked position to a locked position.

[0030] Figures 12A-12C illustrate side, cross-sectional views of the movement of an interlock assembly from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0031] Figures 13A-13C illustrate side, cross-sectional views of the movement of the interlocking assembly of Figures 13A-13C from an unlocked position to a locked position.

[0032] Figure 14 is a top perspective view of an exemplary container that is not part of the invention. Figure 15 is a side cross-sectional view of the container of Figure 14.

[0033] Figure 16A is a side view, in cross section, of the container in Figure 14.

[0034] Figure 16B is an enlarged view of a portion of the container shown in Figure 16A.

[0035] Figure 17A illustrates a top, perspective view of an alternative example of the container in Figure 1 with the lid in a closed position.

[0036] Figure 17B illustrates a top, perspective view of the container in Figure 17A with the lid in an open position.

[0037] Figure 18A illustrates a front view of the container in Figure 17A with the lid in a closed position.

[0038] Figure 18B illustrates a rear view of the container in Figure 17A with the lid in a closed position. Figure 18C illustrates a top view of the container in Figure 17A with the lid in a closed position. Figure 18D illustrates a bottom view of the container in Figure 17A with the lid in a closed position.

[0039] Figure 18E illustrates a left side view of the container in Figure 17A in a closed position.

[0040] Figure 18F illustrates a right-side view of the container in Figure 17A in a closed position.

[0041] Figure 19A illustrates a top view of the base portion of the container in Figure 17A with the lid removed. Figure 19B illustrates an enlarged view of the base portion of the container shown in Figure 19A.

[0042] Figure 20A illustrates a bottom rear perspective view of an alternative exemplary interlocking assembly that is not part of the invention.

[0043] Figure 20B illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of an alternative example of the locking assembly of Figure 20A in a locked position.

[0044] Figure 20C illustrates a partial, cross-sectional view of an alternative example of a Figure 20A interlocking assembly in a locked position.

[0045] Figure 21 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the locking assembly of Figure 20A in an unlocked position.

[0046] Figure 22A illustrates a side, cross-sectional view of the container in Figure 17A.

[0047] Figure 22B illustrates a side, cross-sectional view enlarged through a handle of the container in Figure 17A.

[0048] Figure 22C illustrates a partial perspective view of the bottom of the container in Figure 17A. Figure 23A illustrates a partial perspective view of the base of the container in Figure 17A. Figure 23B illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the partial perspective view of the top of Figure 23A, which illustrates the base of the container in Figure 17A.

[0049] Figure 24A illustrates a top perspective view of the inside of the lid of the container in Figure 17A. Figure 24B illustrates an enlarged view of the top perspective view of Figure 24A showing a portion of the lid of the container in Figure 17A.

[0050] Figure 25 illustrates a side view of the container in Figure 17A.

[0051] Figures 26A-26D illustrate a top, perspective view of the vessel of Figure 17A in an open position with various fittings installed.

[0052] Figure 27A illustrates a top, perspective view of an accessory for the container of Figure 17A. Figures 27B and 27C illustrate side, cross-sectional views of the accessory of Figure 27A.

[0053] Figure 28 illustrates a partial top front perspective view of a conveyor belt installed on an exemplary container that is not part of the invention.

[0054] Figure 29 illustrates a partial top front perspective view of a conveyor belt partially installed in an exemplary container that is not part of the invention.

[0055] Figure 30 illustrates a top, perspective front view of the conveyor belt of Figure 28.

[0056] Figure 31 illustrates a top view of the conveyor belt of Figure 28.

[0057] Figure 32 illustrates a bottom view of the conveyor belt of Figure 28.

[0058] Figure 33 illustrates a front view of the conveyor belt of Figure 28.

[0059] Figure 34 illustrates a side view of the conveyor belt of Figure 28.

[0060] Figure 35 illustrates a top view of an alternative base element of the conveyor belt of Figure 28.

[0061] Figures 36A-H illustrate top views of alternative stitching options for the carrier strap in Figure 28.

[0062] Figure 37 illustrates a right front perspective view of a container according to the invention in a closed position.

[0063] Figure 38A illustrates a right front perspective view of the container in Figure 37 in an open position.

[0064] Figure 38B illustrates an enlarged perspective view of Figure 38A.

[0065] Figure 39 illustrates a left front perspective view of the container of Figure 37 in an open position with various accessories installed.

[0066] Figure 40 illustrates an enlarged view of the container in Figure 37.

[0067] Figure 41 illustrates a front, perspective view of an interlocking assembly of the vessel of Figure 37.

[0068] Figure 42 illustrates a rear, perspective view of the interlocking assembly of Figure 41.

[0069] Figure 43 illustrates a front, perspective view of the interlocking assembly of Figure 41 with some components removed.

[0070] Figure 44 illustrates a rear, perspective view of the interlocking assembly of Figure 41 with some components removed.

[0071] Figure 45 illustrates a right front perspective view of another exemplary container in a closed position. Figure 46 illustrates a lower left front perspective view of the container in Figure 45 in a closed position.

[0072] Figure 47 illustrates a right front perspective view of the container of Figure 45 in an open position. Figure 48 illustrates a top view of the base of the container of Figure 45.

[0073] Figure 49 illustrates a cross-section perspective view of the base along line 49-49 in Figure 48.

[0074] Figure 50 illustrates a cross-section perspective view of the base along line 50-50 in Figure 48.

[0075] Figure 51 illustrates a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the vessel in Figure 47 along line 51-51.

[0076] Figure 52 illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of the vessel in Figure 47 along line 52-52.

[0077] Figure 53 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of the vessel in Figure 47 along line 52-52 in Figure 47.

[0078] Figure 54A illustrates a front, perspective view of the support plate for the lid of the container in Figure 47.

[0079] Figure 54B illustrates a rear, perspective view of the lid support plate of Figure 54A. Figure 54C illustrates an enlarged view of the lid support plate of Figure 54A.

[0080] Figure 55 illustrates a front view of the lid support plate with various accessories attached.

[0081] Figure 56 illustrates a front view of the lid support plate with various accessories attached.

[0082] Figure 57 illustrates a right front perspective view of another exemplary vessel in an open position. Figure 58 illustrates a partial right front perspective view of the exemplary vessel in Figure 57. Figure 59 illustrates a partial right front perspective view of the exemplary vessel in Figure 57 with some components removed.

[0083] Figure 60 illustrates a left front perspective view of another exemplary container in a closed position. Figure 61 illustrates a partial left front perspective view of the container in Figure 60 with some components removed and the handle in a partially extended position.

[0084] Figure 62 illustrates a partial left front perspective view of the container in Figure 60 with some components removed and the handle in an extended position.

[0085] Figure 63 illustrates a partial left front bottom perspective view of the container in Figure 60 with some components removed and the handle in an extended position.

[0086] Furthermore, it should be understood that the drawings may represent the scale of different components of a single embodiment; however, the embodiments disclosed are not limited to that particular scale.

[0087] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0088] In the following description of various example structures, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form part hereof, and which illustrate various example devices, systems, and environments in which aspects of the invention may be practiced. It should be understood that other specific arrangements of example parts, devices, systems, and environments may be used, and that structural and functional modifications may be made. Furthermore, while the terms "top," "bottom," "front," "rear," "side," "back," and the like may be used in this specification to describe various example features and elements of the invention, these terms are used here for convenience, for example, in reference to the example orientations shown in the figures or the orientation during typical use. In addition, the term "plurality," as used herein, means any number greater than one, either disjunctively or conjunctively, as necessary, up to and including infinity. Nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring a specific three-dimensional orientation of the structures to be within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended independent claim. Furthermore, the reader is advised that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily to scale.

[0089] In general, aspects of this invention relate to containers and interlocking assemblies for containers. According to various aspects, examples, and embodiments, the containers and interlocking assemblies described herein may be formed from one or more of a variety of materials, such as metals (including metal alloys), polymers, and composites, and may be formed in one of a variety of configurations. It is understood that the containers and interlocking assemblies may contain components made of several different materials. Furthermore, the components may be formed by various forming processes. For example, metallic components may be formed by forging, molding, casting, stamping, machining, and/or other known techniques. In addition, polymeric components, such as elastomers, may be manufactured by polymer processing techniques, such as various molding and casting techniques and/or other known techniques.

[0091] The various figures in this application illustrate examples of vessels and interlocking assemblies. Where the same reference number appears on more than one drawing, that reference number is used consistently in this specification and the drawings refer to the same or similar parts in all of them.

[0093] Figures 1A, 1B, and 2A represent perspective views of a container 2. In one example, the container 2 comprises a base portion 4 and a lid 5, which, in some instances, may be attached, or in some instances may be nondestructively and detachably attached, to it. The base portion 4 may be a structure forming a void for containing articles, as will be discussed in more detail later. In some instances, the base section 4 may be cubic or essentially cubic. In other instances, the base portion 4 may be prismatic or substantially prismatic (e.g., a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism, a heptagonal prism, or the like). In still other instances, the base portion 4 may be substantially cylindrical or may have a substantially trapezoidal cross section. Various other shapes may be used.

[0094] The base portion 4 includes a side wall structure 6 having a first side 8, a second side 10 opposite the first side, a third side 12 extending between an edge of the first side and an edge of the second side, and a fourth side 14 opposite the third side. The side wall structure 6 also has a first end 16 and a second end 18. The side wall structure 6 may also include a bottom portion 20 connected to a first end 16 of the side wall structure 6 and configured to support the container on a surface such as a table, the floor, a vehicle platform, or the like. In some examples, the bottom portion 20 may also and/or alternatively include one or more legs 22 that can support the container 2 on a surface such as a table, the floor, a vehicle platform, or the like. The legs 22 may be integrally formed with the base 4 or may be attached to the base 4 after the base has been formed.

[0096] The base portion 4 further includes a second end 18 that defines an opening 19 (shown in Figure 3). The opening 19 is configured to allow access to an internal void 21 of the container 2 formed by the side wall structure 6 and the lower portion 20.

[0098] The container 2 includes a lid 5. The lid 5 can pivot between an open and a closed configuration. In some examples, rotating the lid from the closed to the open configuration includes rotating the lid approximately 90° from the closed configuration, or approximately 180° from the closed configuration, or approximately 270° from the closed configuration. As shown in Figure 1, the opening 19 can be covered by the lid 5 when the container is in use (e.g., when the container is in a closed configuration). In some arrangements, the lid 5 can be connected to the base 4 in a closed configuration using a snap fit. Additionally, or alternatively, other fastening systems or devices can be used to secure the lid 5 to the base 4, as will be discussed in more detail later.

[0100] In some examples, the lid 5 may be hinged so that it is connected to the base 4 (either detachably or permanently) by a hinge 37 and may rotate about the hinge 37. The hinge 37 may be of various types, including a continuous piano hinge, a double hinge, a ball-and-socket hinge, a swivel hinge, and the like. These and other various hinge arrangements may be discussed in more detail in this document. The hinge 37 may allow the lid 5 to open and rotate away from the base portion 4, to allow access to the void defined by the base portion 4 (for example, through the opening 19). That is, the hinge 37 can facilitate the rotation of the lid 5 from a closed configuration of the container (for example, when the lid is in place covering the void 21 formed by the base 4, as shown in Figure 1A) to an open configuration (for example, when the lid is not covering the void 21 formed by the base 4, as shown in Figure 1B), and vice versa.

[0102] In addition, in some arrangements, the enclosure 2 may include a gasket 30 or other sealing device. The gasket 30 may be arranged on the lid 5 or the base 4 and may help seal the lid 5 and base 4 when the lid 5 is in a closed configuration. For example, the enclosure 2 may be manufactured to be dust-tight when tested for 8 hours and/or watertight when tested for 30 minutes under 1 meter of water. In some examples, the enclosure 2 may be capable of achieving an IP67 rating (as established by the International Electrotechnical Commission), which specifies that there is no ingress of dust or complete protection against dust when tested for 8 hours and that no ingress of water in harmful quantities is possible when the enclosure is immersed in water under defined conditions of pressure and time (up to 1 m immersion). The IP67 dust test lasts for 8 hours, and the enclosure is tested under vacuum. The IP67 water test lasts 30 minutes and the housing is tested with the lowest point of the housing 1000 mm below the water surface, or the highest point 150 mm below the surface, whichever is deeper.

[0104] In some examples, (and as best shown in Figures 10A-11C) gasket 30 may be seated in a recess 32 formed in at least one of the base 4 and lid 5 and extending around a perimeter of at least one of the base 4 or lid 5. In addition, in some examples, the vessel 2 may include a ridge 34 on the opposite side of the base 4 or lid 5 and extending around a perimeter of the base 4 or lid 5. Gasket 30 may be positioned between the recess 32 and the ridge 34. Gasket 30 may help maintain a seal between the interior of vessel 2 and the outside environment, and in some examples, it may help maintain the temperature of the items contained within vessel 2. An example of a gasket arrangement is shown in Figures 10A-11C, although this and several other gasket arrangements may be used with any of the vessels described herein. document.

[0106] As shown, gasket 30 is disposed in a recess or channel 32 in the lid 5. Alternatively, gasket 30 may be disposed in a recess or channel formed in the base 4. When the lid 5 is in a closed configuration, the ridge 34, which has a shape corresponding to the recess 32, may contact gasket 30 and compress it, thus helping to seal the lid 5 and base 4 in the closed configuration. In some examples, gasket 30 may be a traditional gasket having a substantially circular cross-section. In other arrangements, gasket 30 may include strategically located cutouts that can reduce or eliminate the need for a vent (e.g., a vent to prevent lid blockage).

[0108] In some arrangements, the container 2 may include additional features, such as one or more handles 40. The handles may be arranged on one or more portions of the side-wall structure 6, even on opposite sides, such as sides 12 and 14, as shown. As best shown in Figures 4A-4D, the handles 40 may be constructed with a first and a second arm 42, 44 connected by a gripping element 46. The handle 40 may pivot about a hinge 43 that passes through a portion of the side-wall structure 6 and through each of the first and second arms 42, 44. The handle 40 may also include features to reduce movement and the possible rattling noise associated with the handle when the handle is not in use. As shown in Figures 4A–4D, one or both arms 42, 44 may include a raised portion 48 at a distal end of the arm. In some examples, the raised portion 48 may be attached to a spring element 50. As best shown in Figures 4A and 4D, the container 2 may include a recessed portion 52. The raised portion 48 may be configured to lie within the recessed portion 52 of the side wall structure 6 when the handle 40 is not in use. This may reduce the movement of the handle 40 when it is not in use. However, when a user moves the handle 40 for use, the spring element 50 may retract and allow the user to rotate the handle outward.

[0109] In other examples, as shown in Figures 14-16B and as will be discussed in more detail below, the handles 240 may be integrally molded with the base portion 204, and in some examples, they may generally be a cutout formed in the side wall structure of the base 204. In some examples, the cutout forming the handle may include a recess that extends along virtually all or most of the side wall structure 6. This may facilitate the manufacture of the base 204 with the integrally molded handles 240. In some examples, the integrally molded handles 240 may be flush with an outer surface of the base 204 to reduce the risk of breakage.

[0111] Vessel 2 also includes one or more interlock assemblies 100. The interlock assemblies 100 have a locked position and an unlocked position and are configured to lock the lid 5 when the lid 5 is in a closed configuration. The interlock assemblies 100 may include one or more portions integrally formed with or otherwise attached to the vessel 2. As shown in Figures 5B and 9, the vessel 2 includes a retainer 70. The retainer 70 extends from the side wall structure 6 and may form a pocket within the vessel 2. The pocket of the retainer 70 is shaped to receive a portion of the locking element 130, as will be discussed in more detail below. The retainer has an upper surface 72, an inner surface 74, and a lower surface 76. As will be discussed in more detail later, the interlocking assemblies 100 engage the retainer 70 to lock the lid 5 to the base 4 when the container 2 is in a closed configuration.

[0113] Vessel 2 may also include various features to improve the strength and/or performance of vessel 2. For example, the vessel may include several raised portions in which certain parts of the base 4 and/or lid 5 extend further outward than other parts of the base 4 and/or lid. As best shown in Figures 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B, the base 4 may include a J-shaped raised portion or wall 59 forming a channel 60, the raised wall 59 being coupled to the side wall structure 6. The channel 60 may surround the entire perimeter of vessel 2. The channel 60 may also include reinforcing elements 62 at various locations within the channel. The channel 60 formed by the J-shaped wall 59 can increase the strength of the vessel 2, or of the base 4. In some examples, and as shown for example in Figure 2B, the J-shaped wall 59 can allow the base 4 to be constructed such that the inner surfaces 6A of the side wall structure 6 are substantially smooth throughout the inner portion of the vessel 2. Thus, for example, substantially all or the entirety of the inner surface 6A of the side wall structure 6, including one or all of the first side 8, second side 10 opposite the first side, and third side 12, can be substantially flat and/or smooth.

[0114] Container 2 may also include raised portions 64, 66 surrounding the interlocking assemblies 100 and the handles 40, respectively. As shown in Figure 4, the raised portions 64, 66 may exist on one or both of the base 4 or the lid 5. The raised portions 64, 66 may be raised to a height equal to or greater than the height of the interlocking assemblies 100 and the handles 40, respectively, so that the interlocking assemblies 100 and/or the handles 40 do not extend outward beyond the raised portions 64, 66 of container 2. This may protect the interlocking assemblies 100 and/or the handles 40 and reduce breakage of these components during use.

[0115] Container 2 may be configured to contain, store, transport, etc., items including food, beverages, or any other item. Additionally or alternatively, container 2 may be configured to store materials in a solid or gaseous state, or combinations thereof.

[0116] The container 2, comprising the base 4 and lid 5, may be made of various materials, such as one or more metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics, or fiber-reinforced materials. In some examples, the base 4 and lid 5 may be made of a plastic material, such as polyethylene, molded to form both the base 4 and lid 5 parts. In some arrangements, the outer layers of the base 4 and lid 5 parts are formed using injection molding or rotational molding/rotomolding processes as understood by a person skilled in the art (not shown). However, other types of molding or other manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, casting, forging, and the like) may be used to form the container 2.

[0117] In some arrangements described herein, the base 4 and lid 5 may include an outer surface or outer layer that surrounds and encloses an insulating portion (not shown), thereby forming an insulating container. The outer layer may typically be made of various materials, such as one or more metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics, or fiber-reinforced materials. In some examples, the outer layer may be made of a plastic material, such as polyethylene, molded to form the base 4 and lid 5 portions. In some examples, the insulating portion (not shown) may be made of an insulating material that has low thermal conductivity. For example, the insulating portion may be made of (or filled with) a polymer foam, such as polyurethane foam. Additional or other insulating materials may be used, including, for example, vacuum-insulated panels. In some arrangements, the outer layers of the base 4 and lid 5 parts may be formed using an injection molding or rotational molding/rotomolding process as understood by someone skilled in the art (not shown). However, other types of molding or other manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, casting, forging, and the like) may be used to form the vessel.

[0118] Referring now more specifically to the interlock assembly 100, as best shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9, the interlock assembly 100 includes multiple components, including a retainer body 102, a locking element 130, a deflection element 150, and an actuating element 170. As discussed earlier, the interlock assembly 100 includes a locked position and an unlocked position. The retainer body 102 is pivotally coupled to the lid 5. As shown in Figure 9, the retainer body can be pivotally coupled to the lid 5 using hinge 106; however, any suitable pivoting coupling may be used. In some examples, hinge 106 may be removably coupled to the container 2. This hinge 106 may allow a user to easily remove and replace the interlock assembly 100 if it becomes damaged. The retainer body 102 may include an inner surface 108 and an outer surface 110. The outer surface may be curved and generally follows the curve of the side wall structure 6 of the vessel 2. As discussed earlier, the outer surface 110 of the retainer body 102 may, in some examples, not extend beyond the outer edge of the side wall structure 6 of the vessel 2. The inner surface 108 may also be curved and may, in addition, include several different features. One exemplary feature that may be included in the retainer body 102 is one or more coupling lugs 112. As will be discussed in more detail below, the coupling lugs 112 may engage the base 4 of the vessel or the retainer 70, and may help to compress the lid 5 against the base 4 of the vessel 2.

[0119] The retainer body 102 is coupled with the locking element 130. As shown in Figure 8, the locking element 130 can be slidably coupled with the retainer body 102 so that the locking element 130 can move between an up position and a down position in a substantially linear path. The locking element 130 can be configured to lock the cap 5 in a closed configuration when the locking element 130 is in the down position and unlock the cap 5 when the locking element 130 is in the up position.

[0120] As shown mainly in Figure 8, the locking element 130 can be movably coupled with one or more guide elements 132 so that the locking element 130 can slide up and down the guide elements 132. In one example, the locking element 130 can include openings 134 that pass through the locking element 130 and through which the guide elements 132 can also pass. The guide elements 132 can be coupled to the retainer body 102 at an upper end 136 and a lower end 138. As shown in Figure 8, the guide elements 132 are cylindrical rods, but any suitable shape that allows up-and-down movement of the locking element 130 can be used. For example, the guide elements 132 can be prismatic or substantially prismatic in shape (e.g., a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism, a prism heptagonal or similar). In other examples, the interlocking assembly 100 may include other devices suitable to allow generally linear movement between the locking element 130 and the retainer body 102, including, for example, rails.

[0122] As shown in Figure 8, the interlocking assembly 100 may also include at least one deflector element 150 coupled with the retainer body 102 and the locking element 130. As will be discussed in more detail below, the deflector element 150 is configured to deflect the locking element 130 to a downward position. The deflector element 150 may be a compression spring as shown in Figure 8, but in alternative examples it may be any device suitable for deflecting the locking element 130 to the downward position.

[0124] The locking element 130 may include a base portion 140. The locking element 130 includes a hook portion 142, which may extend inward from the base portion 140. The hook portion 142 may include a lower surface 144 and an inward-facing surface 146. As shown in Figure 9, when the locking assembly 100 is in the locked position, the lower surface 144 of the hook portion 142 of the locking element 130 may engage the upper surface 72 of the retainer 70, and the inward-facing surface 146 of the hook portion 142 may engage the inner surface 74 of the retainer 70. In addition, when the locking assembly 100 is in the locked position, the upper surface of the mating lugs 112 may engage the lower surface 76 of the retainer 70.

[0126] The retainer body 102 is coupled to an actuating element 170, for example, pivotally coupled to the actuating element. The actuating element 170 can also be coupled to the locking element 130 and is configured to move the locking element 130 from a first position to a second position (for example, from the down position to the up position). As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the actuating element 170 can be pivotally coupled to the retainer body 102 by means of a hinge 172 extending through the retainer body 102 and the actuating element 170. The actuating element 170 includes an actuating cylinder 176. The actuating element 170 can include a gripping portion 174 and one or more arms 178 connecting the gripping portion 174 and the actuating cylinder 176. As shown in Figure 9, the gripping portion 174 is separated by a distance from the side wall structure 6 of the container 2. This distance allows a user to grasp the rear surface 180 of the gripping portion 174 with their fingers positioned between the side wall structure 6 and the gripping portion 174. As shown in Figure 9, the actuating cylinder 176 of the actuating element 170 can be coupled to the element The actuating cylinder 176 includes a raised portion 182. The invention as defined in claim 1 requires that the actuating cylinder have a plurality of raised portions that are spaced apart from each other (for example, as shown in Figure 44). As will be explained in more detail later, a user can pull the gripping portion 174 of the actuating element 170 forward, causing the raised portion 182 of the actuating cylinder 176 to rotate and lift the locking element 130. This movement causes the locking assembly 100 to unlock and allows the cover 5 to move from the closed configuration to an open configuration.

[0128] Referring now to Figures 10A-10D, a procedure for moving an example of the interlocking assembly 100 from the locked position to an unlocked position is shown with side, cross-sectional views of the interlocking assembly 100 and portions of the base 4 and the cover 5. Figure 10A shows the interlocking assembly 100 in the locked position, Figure 10B shows the interlocking assembly 100 being unlocked, Figure 10C shows the interlocking assembly 100 in the unlocked position, and Figure 10D shows the interlocking assembly 100 in the unlocked position and illustrates an anti-rotation feature. As shown in Figure 10A, in the locked position, the lower surface 144 of the hook portion 142 engages with the upper surface 72 of the retainer 70; The inward-facing surface 146 of the hook portion 142 engages with the inner surface 74 of the retainer 70; and the coupling lugs 112 engage with the lower surface 76 of the retainer 70.

[0130] As shown in Figure 10B, the locking assembly 100 can be moved to the unlocked position by rotating the actuating element 170 as indicated by arrow 190. This rotation can be achieved when the user pulls forward on the rear surface 180°. As shown in Figure 10B, as the actuating cylinder 176 rotates, the raised portion 182 engages the locking element 130 and raises the locking element 130. As shown in Figure 10C, the locking assembly 100 is in an unlocked position. As the locking element 130 is raised above the retainer 70, the locking assembly 100 is unlocked, and the retainer body 102, including the locking element 130 and the actuating element 170, can be rotated forward as indicated by arrow 194.

[0132] Figure 10D represents an anti-rotation feature of the interlock assembly 100 and the container 2. As shown in Figure 10D, the interlock assembly 100 is in the unlocked position and has been rotated further outward from the position shown in Figure 10C. To restrict rotation of the interlock assembly 100, the retainer body 102 may include a rear surface 187 configured to engage with an anti-rotation surface 7 of the lid once a user has rotated the interlock assembly 100 a certain rotation away from the locked position. For example, the rear surface 187 can be configured to engage the anti-rotation surface 7 when a user has rotated the locking assembly 100 at least 20 degrees from the locked position, or at least 30 degrees from the locked position, or at least 45 degrees from the locked position, or at least 90 degrees from the locked position. Advantageously, this anti-rotation feature can also allow a user to use the locking assembly 100 as a handle to open the container 2.

[0134] Referring now to Figures 11A-11C, a procedure for moving the interlock assembly 100 from an unlocked position to a locked position is shown with side cross-sectional views of the interlock assembly 100 and parts of the base 4 and the cover 5. Figure 11A shows the interlock assembly 100 in an unlocked position, Figure 11B shows the interlock assembly 100 locked, and Figure 11C shows the interlock assembly 100 in the locked position.

[0136] As shown in Figure 11A, and as indicated by arrow 196, in one example a user can return the interlock assembly 100 to the locked position by pressing the retainer body 102. As shown in Figure 11B, as the retainer body 102 is pressed inward, the locking element 130 may contact the retainer 70, which may cause the locking element 130 to lift upward as indicated by arrow 198. In other examples, in addition to pushing the retainer body 102 inward, a user must also pull the activating element 170 outward to move the interlock assembly 100 to the locked position. In such an example, the interlock assembly 100 can advantageously move only from the unlocked position to the locked position when the locking element 130 is moved to the up position by the activating element 170. This can reduce the possibility of accidentally locking the container 2.

[0138] As shown in Figure 11C, once the hook portion 142 has moved behind the raised portion of the retainer 70, the deflection elements 150 can push the locking element 130 in a downward direction. As shown in Figure 11C, the locking assembly 100 is in the locked position, and the lower surface 144 of the hook portion 142 is engaged with the upper surface 72 of the retainer 70; the inward-facing surface 146 of the hook portion 142 is engaged with the inner surface 74 of the retainer 70; and the coupling lugs 112 are coupled with the lower surface 76 of the retainer 70. When in a closed position, the interlocking assembly 100 is positioned so that the lid 5 rests on the base 4 of the container 2, thereby closing, securing, and/or sealing the container 2. Furthermore, as the interlocking assembly moves from the unlocked position (Figure 11A) to the locked position (Figure 11C), the gasket 30 is compressed between the lid 5 and the base 4 of the container 2. Thus, when the interlocking assembly 100 is in a locked position, the gasket 30 is more compressed than when the interlocking assembly 100 is in an unlocked position.

[0140] Figures 12A-12C show a procedure similar to that shown in Figures 10A-10C for moving an example of the interlock assembly 100 from the locked position to an unlocked position, and Figures 13A-13C show a procedure similar to that shown in Figures 11A-11C for moving an example of the interlock assembly 100 from the locked position to an unlocked position. As shown, for example, in Figures 10A-11C, the actuator element 170 can automatically return to a down position, as shown in Figure 10A, after a user has rotated it outward. However, in other examples, the actuator element 170 can only move to the down position if a user manually pushes it inward. In addition, in some examples, the actuator element can extend further outward than the retainer body 102 when the actuator element is in the down position.

[0142] The interlocking assembly 100, comprising the retainer body 102, the locking element 130, and the activating element 170, can each be formed separately and can be made of materials such as plastic or other suitable formable or moldable materials. The interlocking assembly 100 can be made of a size, thickness, and construction material sufficient to withstand repeated cycles of stress as the retainer engages/disengages with the retainer 70 over time. The vessels described herein include several features that ensure easy and efficient manufacturing of the vessels while providing durability and wear resistance.

[0144] Figures 14-16B depict another example vessel 202 having an interlocking assembly 100, wherein the identical part numbers refer to the same or similar elements in vessel 2 but include part numbers from the 200 series. Vessel 202 is substantially similar to vessel 2, and therefore similar aspects of vessel 202 are not discussed again here. Vessel 202, however, may include some differences from vessel 2. Vessel 202, for example, includes handles 240 that may be integrally molded with the base portion 204 in the side wall structure of the base 4. As shown in Figures 14-16B, the integrally molded handles 240 may be formed by the J-shaped wall 259 and/or may comprise a portion of the J-shaped wall 259. Thus, the integrally molded handles 240 may comprise a portion of channel 260 that extends around a perimeter of vessel 202.

[0145] Figures 17A-26D depict another example vessel 302 having an interlocking assembly 400 discussed below, wherein the identical part numbers refer to the same or similar elements in vessels 2 and 202 but include part numbers from the 300 series. Vessel 302 is substantially similar to vessels 2 and 202, and therefore similar aspects of vessel 302 are not discussed again here. Vessel 302, however, may include some differences from vessels 2 and 202. Vessel 302, for example, includes handles 340 that may be integrally molded with the base portion 304 on each side 308, 310, 312, 314 of the sidewall structure 306 of the base 304. In addition, vessel 302 may comprise a plurality of attachment points for locating and supporting Various accessories can be attached to the 302 container. These attachment points will be described in more detail below.

[0147] As shown in Figures 17B, along with 19A and 19B, the base 304 may include a retainer 370. The retainer 370 may extend from the sidewall structure 306 and may form a pocket within the base 304. The retainer 370 may be shaped to receive a portion of the locking element 430, as will be discussed in more detail below. Retainer 370 may have a top surface 372, an inner surface 374, a rib 375, and a bottom surface 376. Rib 375 may extend from the sidewall structure 306 to the bottom surface 376 of retainer 370. Optionally, rib 375 may also connect to the top surface 372 and the bottom surface 376 or to the inner surface 374 of retainer 370. Rib 375 may be located substantially in the center along the length of retainer 370. Rib 375 may add structural support to retainer 370 to improve durability. Alternatively, the retainer 370 may include multiple ribs 375 that can be positioned on each side of the pocket formed by the retainer 370 to provide additional support to the retainer 370. As will be discussed in more detail later, the interlocking assembly 400 can engage the retainer 370 to lock the lid 305 to the base 304 when the vessel 302 is in a closed configuration.

[0149] In addition, the base 304 may include a plurality of ramped or tapered surfaces 371 positioned on each side of the retainer 370. The ramped surfaces 371 may angle downward from the interface surface 336 of the base 304, wherein the interface surface 336 may be substantially flat and extend around at least three sides of the perimeter of the base 304. The interface surface 336 of the base 304 may contact the interface surface 335 of the lid 305 when the container 302 is in the closed position. The ramped surface 371 may angle downward from the interface surface 336 at approximately 45 degrees or within a range of 30 to 60 degrees, or within a range of 20 to 80 degrees. The ramped surface 371 can prevent the interlock assembly 400 from getting stuck in the base 304 when the container 302 is closed and can also come into contact with the bottom of the interlock assembly 400 when the lid 305 is closed to push the interlock assembly 400 out of the way of the base when the lid 305 is closed as shown in Figure 21.

[0151] The base 304 may further include a plurality of coupling elements 337 extending from the interface surface 336 of the base 304. The coupling elements 337 may be positioned outside the ridge 334. The coupling elements 337 may extend into recesses or cavities 339 in the lid 305. The interaction between the coupling elements 337 and the recesses 339 may provide additional structural support to reinforce the joint between the lid 305 and the base 304 when the vessel 302 is in a closed position and when multiple vessels are stacked or additional items are placed on top of the vessel 302. The base 304 may have any number of coupling elements 337. For example, four coupling elements 337 are illustrated, but the base 304 may comprise two coupling elements, three coupling elements, five coupling elements, or more. The number of recesses 339 in the lid 305 may be equal to the number of coupling elements 337 and be located in the lid 305 in a position that corresponds with each coupling element 337 in the base 304. The coupling elements 337 in the example have a substantially square cross-sectional shape, but may have any cross-sectional shape, such as a circle, a triangle, or another polygon. Each coupling element 337 may have a height that is less than or equal to the width of the coupling element 337. Furthermore, while the coupling elements 337 and the recesses 339 in the example are located on the first side 308 of the vessel 302, the coupling elements 337 and the recesses 339 may be on any side and there may be examples in which they are positioned on multiple sides.

[0153] As another feature, the base 304 may have a plurality of tabs 321 positioned along the inner surfaces 306A of the sidewall structure 306 of the base 304. For example, as shown in Figures 17B and 19A, tabs 321A may be positioned at each of the corners of the sidewall structure 306. In addition, tabs 321B and 321C may be positioned along the inner surface of the first side 308 and the second side 310. Tabs 321B and 321C may be positioned opposite each other as illustrated in Figure 19A so that they are aligned along the length of the first side 308. As shown in the example in Figure 19A, the inner portion may comprise eight tabs 321, with tabs 321A located at each of the corners and The tabs 321B and 321C are located along the inner surface of the side walls 308, 310. The tabs 321B and 321C may generally be centrally located, such that at least one tab 321B, 321C may be positioned near a centerline of the vessel 302, but preferably located on each side of the centerline. Alternatively, the plurality of tabs 321 may not be aligned with a tab 321 on the opposite inner surface, but may be staggered. The tabs 321 may provide attachment locations for various accessories as discussed later.

[0154] Each tab 321 can extend from the inner surfaces 306A of the side wall structure 306 and include a top support surface 323, an opening 324 extending through the top support surface 323, and a pair of side surfaces at each end of the tab 321. The top support surface 323 of each tab can provide a mating surface to support various accessories within the interior of the vessel 302, such as a tray 500 as discussed later. The upper bearing surfaces 323 of the plurality of tabs 321 may be substantially coplanar with each other to allow the bearing surfaces 323 to support an accessory that can extend through the base 304 and be supported by multiple tabs 321. The upper bearing surfaces 323 of the tabs 321 may be positioned on a higher portion of the inner surfaces 306A at a height greater than fifty percent of the height of the inner portion of the base part. Alternatively, the upper bearing surfaces 323 of the tabs 321 may be positioned at a height greater than sixty percent of the height of the inner portion of the base part, or even greater than seventy percent of the height of the inner portion of the base part. To minimize the impact on interior space, each 321 tab can have a low profile so that each 321 tab extends less than one inch from the interior surface, or less than 0.5 inches, or even less than 0.25 inches. Additionally, the 324 openings can be any shape, but preferably elongated. The 324 openings can provide attachment points for straps or other fastening means to further support various accessories.

[0156] Alternatively, a pair of 326 tracks may be placed along at least two of the 306A interior surfaces of the 306 sidewall structure. As shown in the example, a pair of tracks may be placed on each of the first and second interior surfaces of the 308, 310 sides. Each track in the 326 track pair may be centrally located so that it is aligned with the 326 track pair on the opposite interior surface. Each 326 track may extend from the interior surfaces of the 304 base and have a height that extends along most of the height of the interior portion. To minimize the impact on interior space, each 326 track may have a low profile so that each 326 track extends a distance of less than one inch from the 306A interior surface, or less than 0.5 inches, or even less than 0.25 inches. Pairs of 326 tracks can support a removable 510 divider wall, which can also serve as a cutting board, to separate the interior of the container into two sections for better organization of stored items. Each 326 track can have multiple retainers or protrusions to securely hold the 510 divider wall in place, preventing movement and limiting vibration.

[0158] Similar to the example vessel 302 discussed above, the example in Figures 17-26D may have integrally molded handles 340 positioned along each of the side walls 308, 310, 312, and 314. Each of the integrally molded handles 340 may be formed by the J-shaped wall 359 and/or may comprise a portion of the J-shaped wall 359. The integrally molded handles 340 may thus comprise a portion of the channel 360 extending around a perimeter of the vessel 302. The example vessel 302 may thus comprise four handles 340. The handles 340 may be integrally molded with the base portion 304. In some examples, each handle 340 may be formed with a cutout and include a recess extending along substantially all or part of the most of the 306 sidewall structure. This integrally molded 340 handle can simplify the manufacturing process of the 304 base. In some examples, integrally molded handles may be flush with an outer surface of the 304 base to reduce the risk of breakage.

[0160] As shown in Figures 22A to 22C, each handle 340 can have a curved inner profile 345 to provide an ergonomic and comfortable gripping surface for the user. The handle inner profile 345 may comprise a plurality of handle ribs 347 extending from the side wall to an inner surface of the handle 340, wherein each handle rib 347 may have a curved profile such that the plurality of ribs 347 spaced from each other form the curved inner profile 345 of the handle 340. Each rib 347 may have a spacing between ribs 347 that is less than the width of each rib 347. Alternatively, each rib 347 may have a spacing between ribs 347 that is equal to or greater than the width of each rib 347.

[0162] Each handle 340 may have an opening 341 extending through the upper surface of the handle 343 of the handle 340, wherein each opening 341 may align with an opening 349 of the lid 305. In this manner, with the openings 341 of the handle and the openings 349 of the lid 305 aligned, locations are permitted for a strap or similar device to pass through the openings 341, 349 to anchor or tie down the container 302. Each opening 341, 349 may be elongated in shape and all may be substantially the same length and width. In this way, these openings 341, 349 can provide the user with versatility for operations beyond simply anchoring the container 302. To further aid in anchoring or securing the container 302, the lid 305 can have recesses or channels 351 that align with the openings 349 to provide guide surfaces for a strap to secure the container 302. Alternatively, clips 520 can be inserted through the openings 341 to provide an additional location for using a hook-and-loop connection, adding further versatility to the options for holding additional accessories, as shown in Figures 23A and 23B.

[0163] The lid 305 of the container 302 may further comprise a plurality of clips 315 positioned along an inner surface 309 of the lid 305. For example, as shown in Figure 24A, a clip 315A may be centrally located on each of the inner surfaces 325, while a pair of clips 315B and 315C may be evenly spaced along each of the inner surfaces 327, 329. Each of the clips 315 may also extend over or contact the lower inner surface 331 of the lid 305. Clips 315B and 315C may be aligned to face each other. As shown in the example in Figures 17B and 24A, the lid 305 may comprise six clips 315, although the lid 305 may comprise any number of clips 315. Alternatively, the plurality of clips 315 may not be positioned opposite each other on the inner surface of the side walls and may be staggered. The clips 315 may provide attachment points for various accessories such as a cargo net or bungee cord net 515, or straps 516 that include additional attachment points for securing any other items the user may wish.

[0165] Each clip 315 may extend from inner surfaces of the cap 305 and may include a mating element 317 and an opening 319 extending through the mating element 317. The openings 319 may be elongated or alternatively may be of any shape. In addition, the openings 319 of the clips 315 may have a width similar to that of the openings 324 of the tabs 321. These openings 319 may provide attachment points for straps or other fastening means to further support different accessories as shown in Figures 26B-26D.

[0167] As discussed above with respect to cap 5, cap 305 may include a recess 332 that can accommodate a gasket 330, wherein the recess 332 extends around a perimeter of cap 305. The recess 332 may be located within the interface surface 335 of cap 305. The recess 332 may include a plurality of retaining elements 333 extending from the sides of the recess 332 as shown in Figure 24B. Retaining elements 333 may be engaged with gasket 330 at multiple locations around the perimeter of recess 332 to secure gasket 330 in recess 332. Each retaining element 333 may include at least one tapered surface such that the retaining element 333 has a thickness near the top of the retaining element that is closer to the open end of recess 332 than the thickness in a central portion of the retaining element 333. In addition, in some examples, the vessel 302 may include a ridge 334 on the base 304 opposite the recess 332 of the lid 305 that extends around a perimeter of the base 304. The ridge 334 may be positioned on the interface surface 336 of the base 304. Gasket 330 may be positioned between recess 332 and ridge 334 when the lid 305 is engaged with the base. 304.

[0169] In some examples, the lower portion 320 may also and/or alternatively include one or more legs 322, which can support the container 302 on a surface 1 such as a table, floor, vehicle platform, or the like. The legs 322 can be formed separately from a non-slip material such as rubber or elastomer and attached to the base 304 after forming. The legs 322 can have a height considered "low profile" that allows the container 304 to slide along one of their edges when the container 302 is tilted at an angle greater than 15 degrees to the surface 1 supporting the container 302, as shown in Figure 25. Alternatively, the legs 322 can be integrally formed with the base 304.

[0171] Figures 20A through 21 represent an example of a 400 interlock assembly where the same part numbers refer to the same or similar elements in the 100 interlock assembly but include part numbers from the 400 series. The 400 interlock assembly is substantially similar to the 100 interlock assembly, and therefore similar aspects of the 400 interlock assembly are not discussed again here. The 400 interlock assembly, as shown in Figure 20A, may include multiple components, including a retainer body 402, a locking element 430, a diverter element 450, and an actuator element 470. Similar to the 100 interlock assembly discussed above, the 400 interlock assembly may include a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0173] The locking element 430 may include a base portion 440 and a plurality of hook portions 442 extending inward from the base portion 440. The plurality of hook portions 442 may be separated from each other by a gap 441. Each hook portion 442 may include a lower surface 444 and an inward-facing surface 446. As shown in Figure 20B, when the locking assembly 400 is in the locked position, the lower surface 444 of each hook portion 442 can engage with the upper surface 372 of the retainer 370, and the inward-facing surface 446 of each hook portion 442 can engage with the inner surface 374 of the retainer 370. In addition, the rib 375 of the retainer 370 can fit within the gap 441 between each of the portions. hook 442 as shown in Figure 20C. In addition, when the interlocking assembly 400 is in the locked position, the upper surface of the coupling lugs 412 can engage the lower surface 376 of the retainer 370.

[0175] The retainer body 402 may include a plurality of ribs 413 along the inner surface 408 from the upper portion of the inner surface 408 toward the locking element 430. The ribs 413 may each have a contoured height such that each rib 413 is lower in an upper area than in a lower area as the rib extends toward the locking element 430. The ribs 413 help to strengthen the retainer body 402 while reducing the overall weight of the interlocking assembly 400.

[0176] Similar to the interlocking assembly 100, the retainer body 402 can also be pivotally coupled to an actuating element 470. The actuating element 470 can also be coupled to the locking element 430 and can be configured to move the locking element 430 from the down position to the up position. The actuating element 470 may be pivotally coupled to the retainer body 402 by means of a hinge 472 extending through the retainer body 402 and the actuating element 470. The actuating element 470 may include a gripping portion 474, an actuating cylinder 476, and one or more arms 478 connecting the gripping portion 474 and the actuating cylinder 476, where the actuating cylinder 476 may include a raised portion 482. The raised portion 482 and the actuating cylinder 476 may be joined together along a substantially flat contact surface 483. To adequately support the actuating cylinder 476, the inner surface 408 of the retainer body 402 in that area may be substantially parallel to the contact surface 483 to support the contact surface 483 and thus help support the actuating cylinder 476 and prevent the actuating element 470 from rotating. back beyond the outer surface 410 of the retainer body 402. Alternatively, the gripping portion 474 may include a ridge 475 extending at least a portion of the length of the gripping portion 474 to further assist the user in gripping the gripping portion 474 without slipping.

[0178] As mentioned above, the ramped surface 371 acts both to protect the retainer assembly from getting stuck in the base 304 and to help position the retainer assembly so that it fits properly into the retainer 370.

[0180] Figures 26A-26D illustrate the 302 vessel as described above configured with various accessories. For example, Figure 26A illustrates a storage system that includes the container 302 and an installed tray 500, where the tray 500 is supported by a plurality of tabs 321 as well as by the divider wall 510 installed between the pair of tracks 326. Figure 26B illustrates the system shown in Figure 26A with a cargo net 515 attached to the lid clips 315. Another example of the storage system is illustrated in Figure 26C, where the container 302 includes two trays 500 supported by tabs 321 along with a pair of utility straps 516 connected to the lid clips 315 to provide multiple locations for a user to place and organize any desired item in the container 302. Figure 26D illustrates yet another option where a soft-sided storage bag 518 includes a plurality of zippered storage compartments. As discussed above, by providing multiple attachment points within the base and lid, the 302 container can be equipped with a variety of accessory options to provide a storage system to offer an organized storage solution for a user.

[0182] Figures 27A-27C illustrate further details of the tray 500. The tray 500 may have a body 502 with a mounting surface 503 along with a plurality of storage cavities 504. The storage cavities 504 may be of any size and may be configured to have any number of cavities 504. For example, the examples shown in Figures 27A-27C comprise three cavities, where two of the cavities are smaller than the third cavity. As another feature of the tray 500, the tray 500 may include a movable handle 505. The handle 505 may be moved vertically from an extended position shown in Figure 27B to a retracted or storage position shown in Figure 27C. In the extended position, a user can easily lift the tray 500 out of the container 302, while in the retracted position, the tray 500 has a lower height or storage profile. The handle 505 may have a U-shaped tube structure with two ends 506 that fit into openings 507 in the body 502 of the tray. Each end 506 of the tube structure may have a tapered surface 508 that allows installation in the openings 507 and a retaining surface 509 to prevent the handle from being removed and also provide a positive stop to limit the vertical movement of the handle 505.

[0184] As another option, as illustrated in Figures 28-36-H, a carrying strap 600 can be attached to the container 302 to allow a user to easily lift and carry the container 302. As shown in Figures 28 and 29, the carrying strap 600 can be installed by inserting an end portion 616 from each end 604, 606 into openings 341 in opposite side handles 340 of the base 304 of the container 302. The carrying strap 600 can include a base element 602 having a first end 604, a second end 606 opposite the first end 604, an elongated element 608 extending between the first end 604 and the second end 606, and a carrying handle 610. The first end 604 and the second end 606 can each have an end portion 616, which includes a coupling element 618, which helps secure the strap 600 to the handles 340 of the container 302 using a friction fit. As defined herein, the term "friction fit" may refer to a means by which two components are secured to each other using only mechanical interference or mechanical contact created by the two components when assembled together. The carrying handle 610 may include openings 612 at each end 614 so that the elongated element 608 can extend through each opening 612.

[0186] As shown in Figures 28 and 29, the conveyor belt 600 can be installed in the container 302 by inserting one of the end portions 616 through the opening 341 of the handle 340 from underneath the handle 340, where the end portion 616 can be rotated with respect to the elongated element 608 on the upper surface 343 of the handle 340. As shown in the illustrated example, the side handle 340 can include a recess 342 that is offset below the upper surface 343 that receives the coupling element 618. The coupling element 618 of each end portion 616 can include a layered or folded portion 620. The elongated element 608 can be folded back on itself and joined, creating an inner portion 626 and an outer portion 628 of the coupling element 618. The The folded portion 620 may include at least two layers of the elongated element 608 and have at least one fold. As shown in the illustrated examples, the folded portion 620 may include three layers of the elongated element 608 and three folds. In other examples, the folded portion 620 may have more than three layers and three folds. The folded portion 620 may be joined using a mechanical element 622 such as a seam, a buttonhole, or another means known to a person skilled in the art to join the layers together. In the illustrated examples, the seam 622 may be a backstitch, a loop stitch, or another seam known to a person skilled in the art. The seam 622 may have a width of approximately 2 mm, or within a range of 1 mm to 3 mm to provide adequate strength to the joining. The seam 622 may be located at a fixed distance 624 from the respective ends 604 and 606 to a centerline 625 of the seam 622, creating an inner portion 626 and an outer portion 628. The coupling element 618 may then be rotated relative to the elongated element 608 on each side of the seam 622 to secure the strap 600 to the container 302. The loop seam 622 may also help to increase the strength of the joint. Alternatively, the folded portion 620 may be joined using an adhesive, tape, or other means known to a person skilled in the art. The adhesive or tape can be used alone or in conjunction with the seam 622. As shown in Figure 28, once the end portion 616 of the strap 600 extends across the top surface 343 of the handle 340, the coupling element 618 can be rotated along the seam 622 so that the inner portion 626 can be received in an inner recess portion 342A of the recess 342 and the outer portion 628 can be received in an outer recess portion 342B of the recess 342. As discussed above, the seam 622 can be located at a fixed distance from the respective end 604, 606 such that the inner portion 626 of the coupling element 618 is shorter than the length of the outer portion 628. For example, the length of the inner portion 626 can be within a 60 percent range. to 66 percent of the length of the outer portion 628, or within a range of 55 percent to 70 percent of the length of the outer portion 628. The length of the inner portion 626 can be measured as the length of the coupling element 618 from a centerline of the seam 622 of the coupling element 618 to its respective end. Similarly, the length of the outer portion 628 can be measured as the length of the coupling element 618 from a centerline of the seam 622 to an end 629 of the outer portion 628 located at the fold of the folded portion 620. For example, the length of the inner portion 626 can be approximately 7 mm, or within a range of 5 mm to 10 mm, and the length of the outer portion 628 can be approximately 11 mm, or within a range of 9 mm to 16 mm.

[0188] To improve the friction fit between the strap 600 and the openings 341, the elongated element 608 of the strap 600 may have a width at each end portion 616 that is greater than the width of the opening 341 in the handle 340. The width, W1, of the elongated element 608 may be the distance from a first side 630 to a second side 632 of the elongated element 608, while the width, W2, of the opening 341 may be measured as the distance across the span between the smaller ends of the elongated opening 341. In some examples, the width, W1, of the base element 602 may be approximately 5 percent greater than the width, W2, of the opening 341, or it may be within a range of 3 percent to 7 percent greater than the width, W2, of the opening 341. The width, W1 of the base element 602 may be a constant width, where the width, W1, may be approximately 38 mm or within a range of 35 mm to 41 mm, or alternatively, the base element 602 may have a variable width where the width of the base element 602 may be less in a central zone extending through the carrying handle 610 than the width of the base element 602 in the end portions 616, as shown in Figure 35. In the illustrated examples, the carrying belt 600 has a base element 602 with a constant width, and the elongated element 608 may curve or wrap along an inner surface of the carrying handle 610, as shown in Figure 30. This may result in the carrying handle 610 having a width less than the width of the base element 602 in the end portions 616. In some examples, the width of the handle 610 may be within a range of 60 to 75 percent of the base element width 602 in the end portions 616.

[0190] As shown in Figures 28 and 29, to install the strap 600 to the container 302, the first end 604 of the strap 600 can be inserted through an elongated opening 341 in the handle 340, which is located on a first side of the base 304 of the container 302. The end portion 616 can extend through the opening 341 above the upper surface 343, with most of the elongated element 608 still below the handle 340. In some examples, the end portion 616 can be inserted at an angle through the opening 341, where the end portion 616 forms an acute angle with the upper surface 343 of the handle 340 as it is inserted into the opening 341. This acute angle can be within a range of 1 degree to 55 degrees. The coupling element 618 can then be rotated with respect to the elongated element 608 so that the inner portion 626 of the coupling element 618 lies flat within the inner recess portion 342A of the recess 342 and the outer recess portion 342B of the recess 342. The inner recess portion 342A can be the recess portion 342 extending from the elongated opening 341 into an interior void of the vessel 302, and the outer recess portion 342B can be the recess portion 342 extending from the elongated opening 341 away from the interior void of the vessel 302. The depth of the recess 342 can be greater than the thickness of both the inner portion 626 and the outer portion 328. Once a first end 604 of the belt 600 is coupled with the handle 340 on one side of base 304, the process is repeated by joining a second end 606 of strap 600 to handle 340 on the second side of base 304 opposite handle 340 with the first end 604 attached. For example, the second end 606 is inserted through an elongated opening 341 in the handle 340, which is located on a second side of the base 304 of the container 302, where the end portion 616 extends upward above a top surface 343 and most of the elongated element 608 is below the handle 340. As with installing the first end 604, the second end portion 616 on the end 606 can be inserted where the end portion 616 forms an acute angle with the top surface 343 of the handle 340 as it is inserted into the opening 341. This acute angle can be within a range of 1 degree to 55 degrees. Finally, the second coupling element 618 can be rotated with respect to the elongated element 608 so that the inner portion 626 of the coupling element 618 lies flat within the inner portion 342A of the recess 342 and the outer portion 342B of the recess 342. The strap 600 is then attached at both ends 604, 606 to their respective handles 340 on the base 304. The container 302 can be closed, and a user can grasp the strap 600 by the strap handle 610 to lift the container 302. When the strap 600 is lifted, the elongated element 608 can be wrapped around an outer portion of the lower part of the handle 340 and come into contact with the outer surface 346 of the handle 340.

[0192] As discussed above, the conveyor belt 600 may include a base element 602 having a first end 604, a second end 606, and an elongated element 608 extending between the first end 604 and the second end 606, and a carrying handle 610. The carrying handle 610 may be located in a substantially centered position along the total length, L, of the conveyor belt 600. In addition, the belt 600 may include a pair of overlap zones 634 arranged at a fixed distance from the ends 614 of the carrying handle 610. The overlap zones 634 may include three layers of the elongated element 608 folded over themselves and then joined together. In some examples, the overlap zones 634 may include more than three layers. Overlap areas 634 can be permanently joined using a 636 stitch, such as an x-stitch box stitch extending close to the perimeter of the overlap area 634, with a diagonal stitching area extending between the corners of the stitch. The 636 stitch can be rectangular in shape, so the x-stitch box stitch can be approximately 30 mm long or within a range of 28 to 32 mm and can be approximately 34 mm wide, or within a range of 32 to 38 mm.

[0194] As an alternative to the 636 stitch shown in Figures 28-34, the 636 stitch can have a variety of forms. For example, the 636 stitch can have several forms, such as: (a) regular or irregular backstitching that is substantially parallel to the tape, as shown in Figure 36A; (b) box stitch with loop reinforcement at the ends nearest the fold, as shown in Figure 36B; (c) s-shaped box stitch with loop reinforcement at the ends nearest the fold, as shown in Figure 36C; (d) one or more loops arranged substantially parallel to the fold, as shown in Figure 36D; (e) regular or irregular backstitching that is substantially perpendicular to the tape, as shown in Figure 36E; (f) a double W-stitch pattern, as shown in Figure 36F; (g) a zigzag stitch pattern, as shown in Figure 36G; and (h) a circular or patterned loop, as shown in Figure 36H, where the patterned loop can be any geometric shape, such as a triangle, a quadrilateral, or a shape with more than four sides. In addition, the loop pattern in Figure 36H can include different geometric shapes, such as having rectangular and triangular loops together in one pattern.

[0196] In some examples, the overlap zones 634 may be joined using only stitching, or they may be joined using an adhesive, or they may be joined using stitching in conjunction with an adhesive. These overlap zones 634 may provide additional strength to the conveyor belt 600 while also keeping the carrying handle 610 in a substantially centered location along the length, L, of the conveyor belt 600. The overall length, L, of the conveyor belt 600 may be of a length that allows the conveyor belt to pass over the front side 308 or the rear side 310 of the container 302 so as not to impede a second container 302 from being stacked on top of a first container 302.

[0198] The carrying handle 610 may be formed by a polymer wrap around the elongated element 608, forming a smooth surface along the lower side 638, and may also have a groove 640 extending the entire length of the handle 610 along the upper side 642. The carrying handle 610 may have a concave curvature on the lower side 638, as shown in Figure 33. The base element 602 may be formed from a woven fiber material or a webbing. The woven fiber material or webbing may be a single unitary element forming the base element 602 of the carrying belt 600. Alternatively, the base element 602 may be formed from a plurality of webbing or strips of fabric. The webbing material may be made of nylon, polypropylene, polyester, or another polymer-based material. The woven fiber material or tape can be solution-dyed, piece-dyed, raw, or undyed.

[0200] In addition, the 600 conveyor belt as described above can be mounted similarly to the container 202 or, in an alternative example, the 600 conveyor belt can include a mechanical clip or similar mechanical structure to secure the 600 conveyor belt to any of the containers 2, 202 and 302 described herein.

[0202] Figures 37-44 represent another example 702 vessel having an 800 interlocking assembly discussed below, wherein the same reference numbers refer to the same or similar items in vessels 2, 202, 302 but include reference numbers from the 7XX series. Container 702 is similar in many respects to containers 2, 202, and 302, and therefore, similar aspects of container 702 are not discussed again here. Similar to other containers disclosed herein, the lid 705 can be pivotally attached to the base 704. However, container 702 may include some differences from containers 2, 202, and 302. Container 702, for example, includes a strap handle 780 attached to each end of container 702 as shown in Figure 40. Each strap handle 780 can be attached to the handle 740 at each end of container 702. In addition, container 702 can be larger than container 302 and can include a plurality of attachment points for positioning and supporting various accessories that can be installed on container 702 in a manner similar to the accessories installed on container 302. 302 shown in Figures 26A-26D.

[0204] Each strap handle 780 may provide a flexible interface to allow a user to lift and move the container 702. Each strap handle 780 may include a strap portion 781 and a carrying handle 782, where each end 783 of the strap portion 781 may have an overlap zone forming an opening to receive a pin 784. To secure the strap handle 780 to the container 702, the pin 784 may extend through the opening at each end 783 of the strap portion 781 and be received in a fork portion 785 disposed at each end of the handle 780. The strap portion 781 may be similar in material to the base element 602, and the carrying handle 782 may be similar to the carrying handle 610 of the conveyor belt 600 described above.

[0206] Figures 41-44 represent an example of an 800 interlock assembly where the same part numbers refer to the same or similar elements as the 100 and 400 interlock assemblies, but include part numbers from the 8xx series. The 800 interlock assembly is similar to the 100 and 400 interlock assemblies, and therefore similar aspects of the 800 interlock assembly are not discussed again here. The 800 interlock assembly, as shown in Figures 41 and 42, may include multiple components, including a retainer body 802, a locking element 830, a diverter element 850, and an actuator element 870. Similar to the 100 and 400 interlock assemblies discussed above, the 800 interlock assembly may include a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking element 830 can be slidably engaged with the retainer body 802 so that the locking element 830 can move between an up or unlocked position and a down or unlocked position in a substantially linear path. The locking element 830 can be configured to lock the cover 705 in a closed configuration when the locking element 830 is in the down or locked position and to unlock the cover 705 when the locking element 830 is in the up or unlocked position. Alternatively, the interlocking assembly 800 can be arranged so that the slidably arranged locking element 830 can move to an up position corresponding to a locked position and to a down position corresponding to an unlocked position.

[0208] The locking element 830 may include a base portion 840 and a plurality of hook portions 842 extending inward from the base portion 840. The plurality of hook portions 842 may be separated from each other by a gap 841. Each hook portion 842 may include a lower surface 844 and an inward-facing surface 846. When the locking assembly 800 is in the locked position, the lower surface 844 of each hook portion 842 may engage with the upper surface 772 of the retainer 770, and the inward-facing surface 846 of each hook portion 842 may engage with the inner surface of the retainer 770. In addition, the rib 775 of the retainer 770 may fit within the gap 841 between each of the hook portions 842. Furthermore, when the assembly of When interlock 800 is in the locked position, the upper surface of the coupling lugs 812 can engage the lower surface 776 of the retainer 770. Similar to base 304, base 704 can include a plurality of ramped or tapered surfaces 771 positioned on each side of the retainer 770. The ramped surfaces 771 can angle downward from the interface surface 736 of base 704.

[0210] As shown in Figure 41, the retainer body 802 may include a plurality of ribs 813 along the inner surface 808 and may include vertically oriented ribs 813A located adjacent to the locking element 830. The ribs 813 may also include a horizontally oriented rib 813B that extends across most or all of the inner surface 808. In addition, rib 813C may be located below rib 813B and extend intermittently across the inner surface 808 to act as a vertical stop for the locking element 830 when the locking element 830 is moved upward to an unlocked position. The ribs 813 can also help reinforce the retainer body 802 while reducing the overall weight of the interlocking assembly 800. The rib 813B can include a bracket 814 supporting the guide element 832, where the guide element 832 can be connected from the bracket 814 to the base 840 of the locking element 830. In some examples, the guide element 832 can extend through an opening in the base 840 of the locking element 830. A deflector element 850 can be disposed between the bracket 814 of the retainer body 802 and the base 840 of the locking element 830, and in some examples, a guide element 832 can cooperate with the deflector element 850 to allow smooth movement of the locking element 830 relative to the retainer body 802. As shown in the illustrated example in Figure 41-44, the deflection element 850 can be a compression spring, and a guide element 832 can be cylindrical, extending through an opening in the deflection element 850. Similar to the interlocking assemblies 100 and 400, the deflection element 850 can be configured to deflect the locking element 830 to a down position or a locked position. In alternative examples, the deflection element 850 can be any device suitable for deflecting the locking element 830 to the down position. As shown in Figures 42-44, each interlocking assembly 800 can include a pair of guide elements 832 and a pair of deflection elements 850.

[0212] Similar to the interlocking assemblies 100 and 400, the retainer body 802 can also be pivotally coupled to an actuating element 870. The actuating element 870 can be coupled to the locking element 830 and configured to move the locking element 830 from the down or locked position to the up or unlocked position. The actuating element 870 can be pivotally coupled to the retainer body 802 by means of a hinge 872 that extends through the retainer body 802 and the actuating element 870. In some examples, the actuating element 870 can be slidably coupled to the retainer body 802. The actuating element 870 may include a gripping portion 874, an actuating cylinder 876, and one or more arms 878 connecting the gripping portion 874. The actuating cylinder 876 may include a pair of raised portions 882, where each raised portion 882 can be coupled to a coupling element 848 extending from a lower surface of the base 840 of the locking element 830. Each raised portion 882 may be substantially triangular in shape or, in other examples, may have a different geometric shape. Each coupling element 848 may be spaced apart, creating an opening 849 between the lower surface of the base 840 and the actuating cylinder 876. In some examples, the distance between the coupling elements 848 (distance across the opening 849) may be within a range of 30 mm to 40 mm. By spacing the coupling elements 848 apart, the retainer 800 can be made more robust and remain closed longer during a high-stress event, such as a drop impact, because the load path through the retainer 800 can be improved. A portion of each guide element 832 can extend into the opening 849 between the coupling elements 848 of the locking element 830. As shown in Figures 43 and 44, the deflection elements 850 and guide elements 832 can be positioned laterally between the pair of raised portions 882. This arrangement of outwardly positioned and spaced raised portions 882 can help improve the durability of the interlocking assembly 800 to remain in the locked position when subjected to various environmental stresses, such as large impact loads, like falling onto a corner of the vessel 702. Similar to the interlocking assemblies 100 and 400, as the actuating cylinder 876 rotates, the raised portions 882 make contact and engage with the coupling elements 848 of the locking element 830, raising the locking element 830. As the locking element 830 moves upward, the hook portions 842 disengage from the retainer 770, causing the interlocking assembly 800 to move from the locked to the unlocked position.

[0214] Figures 45-56 illustrate another exemplary container 902 that may be similar in many respects to containers 2, 202, 302, and 702, but described with similar reference numbers. These reference numbers refer to the same or similar elements as containers 2, 202, 302, and 702 but include reference numbers from the 9XX series. Since container 902 is similar in many respects to containers 2, 202, 302, and 702, the similar aspects of container 902 are not discussed again in this document. For example, container 902 may include a strap handle 980 at each end of the container similar to the strap handle 780. Vessel 902 may also include a plurality of interlocking assemblies 800, where the plurality of interlocking assemblies 800 may be located on adjacent sides of vessel 902. For example, vessel 902 includes three interlocking assemblies 800 on a front side 908 and a single interlocking assembly 800 on each side 912, 914 adjacent to the front side 908. The front side 908 may be longer than the right and left sides 912, 914. Vessel 902, however, may include some differences with respect to vessels 2, 202, 302, and 702. In particular, vessel 902 may be larger than vessels 2, 202, 302, and 702 in length, width, and volume. Optionally, in some examples, containers 2, 202, 302, 702, 902 may have a lid that is detachably connected to the base, where retainers may be arranged along each side of the body and lid, such that the lid may be removed by uncoupling the retainers on all retainers, such that the retainers are arranged on the front side 908, a rear side 910 opposite the front side 908, the right side 912 and the left side 914 opposite the right side 912.

[0216] Due to its larger size, the container 902 may include a pair of wheel assemblies 986 to assist the user in moving it easily, as shown in Figures 45 and 46. The wheel assemblies 986 may be attached to the lower portion 920 of the base portion 904 or may be attached to both the lower portion 920 and the right side 912 of the base portion 904. The wheel assemblies 986 may include a wheel housing 987 and a wheel 988, wherein each wheel 988 may be mounted in the wheel housing 987 before the wheel housing 987 is mounted to the base portion 904. Each wheel assembly 986 may be secured in a wheel recess 989 in the base portion 904. Each wheel assembly 986 may be secured within the recess using at least one mechanical fastener.

[0218] The base portion 904 of the vessel 902 may include a pair of tracks 926 positioned along at least two of the inner surfaces 906A of the side wall structure 906. As shown in Figures 47-49, the inner surfaces 906A may include two pairs of tracks 926 arranged and aligned opposite each other on each of the inner surfaces of the front and rear sides 908, 910. Each pair of tracks 926 may be spaced apart, where each pair of tracks may receive a removable partition wall 525 as shown in Figure 57. The removable partition wall 525 for the vessel 902 may be similar to the partition wall 510, but larger to accommodate the vessel 902. Each track 926 may also extend from the inner surfaces 906A of the side wall structure 906 into the inner surface of the lower portion. 920. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 49, each track 926 may include a hollow cavity 990 between an outward-facing surface 991 of each track 926 and the outward-facing surface of the side-wall structure 906 and/or the outward-facing surface of the lower portion 920 of the vessel 902. The hollow cavity 990 may be formed by a gas-assisted molding process when the base portion 904 is molded. The hollow cavity 990 may allow each track 926 to have a substantially constant wall thickness. In some examples, the hollow cavity 990 may have a length greater than its height, where the length is measured along the longer dimension of the vessel 902 and the height is measured in a top-to-bottom direction. The length of the hollow cavity 990 can be approximately 3 times the wall thickness of each track 926 or within a range of 2 to 4 times the wall thickness of each track 926. The height of the hollow cavity 990 can be between 1.5 and 2.5 times the wall thickness of each track 926. As discussed above, the tracks 926 can accommodate a removable divider, but they can also act as ribs to structurally reinforce the side wall structure 906 of the vessel 902.

[0220] The base 904 may also include a plurality of tabs 921 similar to the tabs 321 discussed above, located along the inner surfaces 906A of the side wall structure 906. For example, as shown in Figure 48, the tabs may be positioned along each inner surface 906A of the side wall structure 906. Pairs of tabs 921 may be positioned opposite each other to support a variety of fittings. As shown in the exemplary embodiment of Figure 48, the inner surfaces 906A may include twelve tabs 921; however, the number of tabs 921 may be more or less than twelve. In addition, the base 904 may include a corner bracket 992 at each corner of the inner surfaces 906A. Each corner bracket 992 can project inward from the inner surfaces 906A into the inner void of the container 902. The corner brackets 992 can have a top surface 993 that is substantially coplanar to a top support surface 923 of each flange 921. These corner brackets 992 can help support an accessory such as the tray 560 or other accessories as desired. As shown in Figure 50, each corner bracket 992 may include a hollow cavity 994 between an outward-facing surface 995 of the corner bracket 992 and the outward-facing surfaces of the side wall structure 906 and the bottom portion 920. The hollow cavity 994 may be formed by a gas-assisted molding process when the base portion 904 is molded similarly to the hollow cavity 990. The hollow cavity 990 may allow each corner bracket 992 to have a substantially constant wall thickness. In addition, each corner bracket 992 may extend along most of the height of the base 904 and extend from the side wall structure 906 to the inner surface of the bottom portion 920. The corner brackets 992 may also help to reinforce and stiffen the base 904.

[0222] In some examples, the 926 tracks and 992 corner brackets can be formed with the 906 sidewall structure as a single unit. Alternatively, the 926 tracks and 992 corner brackets can be formed separately and permanently joined using a polymer welding technique, such as Emabond®, or joined using an adhesive or other permanent bonding technique.

[0224] Similar to the other containers described herein, the lid 905 may be pivotally attached to the base 904. In some instances, the lid 905 may also have a lid support element 1000. The lid support element 1000 may be releasably or permanently attached to the inner surface 909 of the lid 905. Portions of the lid support element 1000 may contact an inner surface 909 of the lid 905 to provide additional flexural strength to the lid 905 during loading, such as when heavy items are placed on the lid 905. In addition, the lid support element 1000 may act as a MOLLE board to allow various accessories 550 or other items to be releasably attached to the lid support element 1000 to allow a user easy access to these items. The various 550 accessories can be secured to the lid support element 1000 using 1030 straps that extend through openings in the lid support element 1000. As shown in Figures 55-56, a variety of storage bags or other items can be releasably attached to the lid support element 1000 using 1030 straps.

[0226] As shown in Figures 51-56, the lid support element 1000 may include a main wall 1001 with a front surface 1002 formed by a plurality of front side ribs 1004 and a plurality of front longitudinal ribs 1006, wherein most of the front side ribs 1004 and the front longitudinal ribs intersect each other in a generally perpendicular orientation forming a grid-like structure. The front surface 1002 may be substantially flat and grid-shaped, where the front side ribs 1004 form wider portions on the front surface 1002 than the front longitudinal ribs 1006. The main wall 1001 may connect to a perimeter wall 1008, where the perimeter wall 1008 may include openings 1010 for receiving mechanical fasteners for joining the lid support element 1000 to the lid 905. The main wall may also include a rear surface 1012 located opposite the front surface 1002, where the rear surface 1012 may be formed by a plurality of rear side ribs 1014 and a plurality of rear longitudinal ribs 1016. The rear surface 1012 may be grid-shaped and may also be substantially flat and substantially parallel to the front surface 1002. Furthermore, the ribs Rear longitudinal ribs 1016 may be arranged in pairs 1018 that are spaced apart from each other with a greater spacing between the neighboring pair 1018 of rear longitudinal ribs 1016. A portion of the rear surface 1012 may contact the inner surface 909 of the lid 905 to help provide additional support to the lid 905 when required. Alternatively, the support element of the lid 1000 may have a plurality of contact elements extending from the rear surface 1012 and contacting the inner surface 909 of the lid 905 to help provide additional support to the lid 905 when required. These contact elements may be back ribs and/or projections that are releasably or permanently connected to the cover 905 by mechanical fasteners extending through the main wall 1001. The mechanical fasteners may be evenly spaced or arranged in an asymmetric pattern. Multiple connecting elements 1020 may be positioned between the front surface 1002 and the back surface 1012. Each connecting element 1020 may connect and extend between neighboring back side ribs 1014 and neighboring pairs 1018 of back longitudinal ribs 1016. Each connecting element 1020 may also connect and extend between neighboring front side ribs 1004 and neighboring front longitudinal ribs 1006. Each of the front ribs 1004, 1006 may include a tapered zone extending from the front surface 1002 to the adjacent connecting element 1020. In the illustrated examples, the front and rear side ribs 1004, 1014 are oriented in a generally horizontal direction, while the front and rear longitudinal ribs 1006, 1016 are oriented in a generally vertical direction with respect to the perimeter wall 1008. However, it is contemplated that the side ribs 1004, 1014 and the longitudinal ribs 1006, 1016 may be oriented at various angles with respect to the edges of the perimeter wall 1008. Furthermore, the side ribs 1004, 1014 may be oriented at various angles with respect to their corresponding longitudinal ribs 1006, 1016, where in some examples, the frontal ribs 1004, 1006 may be oriented at a different angle to each other than the posterior ribs 1014, 1016 are oriented to each other.

[0228] In addition, most of the front side ribs 1004 may have a side rib opening 1022 extending through the rib 1004. The side rib opening 1022 may be located between the front surface 1002 and an outward-facing surface 1024 of each connecting element 1020. In some examples, each of the front side ribs 1004 may have a side rib opening 1022. Each side rib opening 1022 may be elongated and create a pathway for passing a strap 1030 through the rib opening 1022 to secure an item to the lid support element 1000. Similarly, most of the front longitudinal ribs 1006 may have a longitudinal rib opening 1026 extending through the Rib 1006. The longitudinal rib opening 1026 may be located between the front surface 1002 and an outward-facing surface 1024 of each connecting element 1020. In some examples, each of the front longitudinal ribs 1006 may have a longitudinal rib opening 1026. Each longitudinal rib opening 1026 may be elongated and create a pathway for passing a strap 1030 through the longitudinal rib opening 1026 to secure a fitting 550 to the lid support element 1000. The plurality of side and longitudinal rib openings 1022, 1026 create multiple pathways for receiving a strap 1030 in a longitudinal or lateral direction to secure a fitting 550 to the lid support element 1000. To secure a fitting 550 to the lid support element 1000, a strap 1030 can be inserted into one of the side or longitudinal rib openings 1022, 1026 and then the strap 1030 can be wrapped around a portion of the accessory to be attached and then secured to itself with a hook-and-loop connector or other type of connection. Alternatively, the accessory 550 can have an integral or detachable strap 1030 that can be passed through one of the rib openings 1022, 1026 to secure the accessory 550 to the support element of the lid 1000.

[0230] Figures 57-59 illustrate another version of the exemplary vessel 902, except that it has the lid support element 1100 instead of the lid support element 1000. In addition, the vessel 902 of Figures 57-59 may include a lid support rod assembly 1140 and ejection ribs 1170, which are described below. Similar to the other vessels described herein, the lid 905 may be pivotally attached to the base 904 by a hinge. In some examples, the cover 905 may also have a cover support element 1100. The cover support element 1100 may be releasably or permanently attached to the inner surface 909 of the cover 905. The cover support element 1100 may include a main wall 1102 with a front surface 1104 and a rear surface opposite the front surface 1104. The main wall 1102 may connect to a perimeter wall 1108, wherein the perimeter wall 1108 may include openings 1110 for receiving mechanical fasteners 1112 for attaching the cover support element 1100 to the cover 905. The main wall 1102 may contact the inner surface 909 of the cover 905 in a plurality of locations. For example, the main wall 1102 may include back ribs or protrusions extending from the back surface to contact the inner surface 909 of the lid 905 and help support the lid 905. These back ribs and/or protrusions may be releasably or permanently connected to the lid 905 using mechanical fasteners 1112 that extend through the main wall 1102. The mechanical fasteners 1112 may be evenly spaced from each other as shown in Figure 58, or they may be arranged in an asymmetric pattern. The lid support element 1100 may provide additional bending strength to the lid 905 during loading, such as when heavy items are placed on top of the lid 905.

[0232] A plurality of openings 1114 extending through the main wall 1102 that are configured to receive a strap or other element used to secure an item, such as a storage bag 540, to the lid support element 1100. The openings 1114 may be elongated. In some examples, the openings 1114 may be rectangular with a length that may be two or three times the width. In addition, an opening support rib 1116 may extend across each opening 1114. The opening support rib 1116 may extend behind each opening 1114 and may be spaced a predetermined distance from the rear surface 1106, creating a gap 1118 between an edge 1120 of the opening support rib 1116 and an end 1122 of the opening 1114 for routing a strap from an item attached to the lid support element 1100. The gaps 1118 may be arranged near both ends 1122 of the openings 1114. Furthermore, the lid support element 1100 may act to allow for various accessories 550 shown in Figures 55-56 or other items such as the storage bag 540 shown in Figure 57.

[0234] Alternatively, the container 902 may have a lid-holding rod assembly 1140 that extends between the base 904 and the lid 905 to prevent the lid 905 from accidentally closing when it is in a fully open configuration (i.e., the lid 905 is oriented approximately perpendicular to the base 904). The lid-holding rod assembly 1140 may be a telescopic assembly that automatically locks into a rigid structure when the lid 905 is opened to the fully open configuration. The lid-holding rod assembly 1140 may require a user to activate a release mechanism 1142 to allow the lid 905 to close. The lid retaining rod assembly 1140 can be pivotally attached to both the lid 905 and the base 904 to allow the rod assembly 1140 to fold into a storage configuration when the lid 905 is in the closed configuration. The lid retaining rod assembly 1140 can be arranged near the right side 912 of the side wall structure 906. Alternatively, the lid retaining rod assembly 1140 can be arranged on the left side 914 of the side wall structure 906. Although shown on the vessel 902, a similarly arranged lid retaining rod assembly 1140 can be included on any of the vessels described herein.

[0235] As discussed above, the vessel 902 may include a plurality of interlocking assemblies 800 that are located on the lid 905 to engage with the retainers 970 located on the front side 908 of the side wall structure 906 and on the sides 912, 914 of the side wall structure 906. When the lid 905 is pivotally connected to the base 904 with a hinge, the lid 905 can be opened with an arc-like motion while rotating about the hinge. To ensure that the 800A interlocking assemblies arranged on sides 912, 914 do not jam and/or prevent the opening or closing of the cover 905, sides 912, 914 of the side wall structure may include an ejection rib 1170. Similar to bases 304 and 704, base 904 may include a plurality of ramped or tapered surfaces 971 positioned on each side of the retainer 970. The ramped surfaces 971 may angle downward from the interface surface 936 of base 904. The ramped surfaces 971 may include a first ramped surface 971 adjacent to a first end of the retainer 970A and a second ramped surface 971 adjacent to a second end of the retainer 970A. An ejection rib 1170 may extend from the sides 912, 914 of the sidewall structure 906 or may extend from one or both of the ramped surfaces 971 located on each side of the retainer 970A as shown in Figure 59. The ejection rib 1170 may be arranged on an outer portion of the ramped surfaces 971. The ejection rib 1170 may push the interlock assembly 800A away from the base 904 to prevent the interlock assembly 800A from jamming as the lid 905 moves from the open to the closed configuration or as the lid 905 moves from the closed to the open configuration.

[0237] As discussed above, each interlock assembly 800 can be pivotally coupled to the cover 905 using a hinge or retainer pin 806. Each interlock assembly 800 can be coupled to a retainer 970 when the interlock assembly 800 is in the locked position. Each retainer 970A can be arranged on the sides 912 and 914 of the side wall structure 906 and can include a top surface 972, an inner surface, and a bottom surface 976. In some examples, the ejection rib 1170 can extend from the ramp surfaces 971 and can be arranged at opposite ends of the ramp surfaces 971. The ramp surfaces 971 can have the same properties as the ramp surface 371 described above. As shown in the illustrated example, an ejection rib 1170 may extend from an upper portion of the ramped surface 971 or from an edge of the interface surface 936 of the base 904. Each ejection rib 1170 may extend outward beyond a front surface 977 of the retainer 970. Each ejection rib 1170 may have an upper ramped surface 1172 that extends outward and downward divergently from the ramped surface 971 and a lower ramped surface 1174 that converges toward the upper ramped surface 1172. In some examples, the upper ramped surface 1172 may be substantially coplanar with the ramped surface 971. A rounded edge 1176 may extend between the upper ramped surface 1172 and the lower ramped surface 1174. Furthermore, when the lid 905 is in the closed configuration, the ejection rib 1170 can be located between the body 802 of the interlock assembly retainer 800 and the raised portion 964 of the side wall structure 906.

[0239] When the lid 905 moves from the open to the closed configuration, an ejection rib 1170 can contact the interlock assembly 800 and push the interlock assembly 800 away from the side wall structure 906 to prevent the interlock assembly 800 from jamming or to prevent the lid 905 from closing. Similarly, as the lid 905 moves from the closed to the open configuration, the interlock assembly 800 can contact an ejection rib 1170 to prevent the interlock assembly 800 from jamming or to prevent the lid 905 from opening. Ejection ribs 1170 can only be present on sides 912, 914 of the side wall structure 906.

[0241] Although the lid support elements 1000, 1100, the lid retaining rod assembly 1140 and the ejection ribs 1170 are described with respect to the container 902, these features can be arranged on any of the containers described herein.

[0243] Figures 60-63 illustrate an alternative version of the container 902 except that instead of a strap handle 980, the container 902 includes a pull handle assembly 1050 that enables a user to ergonomically maneuver the container 902. The pull handle assembly 1050 can assist when the container 902 is tilted into a rolling position with the end opposite the wheels 988 off the container's resting surface. The pull handle assembly 1050 can be connected to side 914 of the side wall structure 906, which is arranged opposite side 912, which includes the wheel assemblies 986. A user can grasp the handle 1052 to lift side 914 upward, shifting the weight of the container 902 onto the wheels 988 and enabling the user to pull the container 902. The pull handle assembly 1050 can have an extended configuration that allows a user to pull the container 902 and a nested configuration where the pull handle assembly 1050 is located within a recess 996 in side 914. When the pull handle assembly 1050 is in the nested configuration, a top surface 1058 of the pull handle 1052 can be substantially parallel to an outward-facing surface of side 914.

[0245] The pull handle assembly 1050 may include a pull handle 1052 pivotally attached to side 914, a main hinge plate 1054 pivotally attached to the pull handle 1052, and a secondary hinge plate 1056 pivotally attached to both the main hinge plate 1054 and side 914. The pull handle 1052 may include a first handle end 1060 pivotally connected to side 914 of the side wall structure 906, a second handle end 1062 opposite the first handle end 1060, and a pull handle body 1064 extending between the first handle end 1060 and the second handle end 1062. The first handle end 1060 may have a pair of coupling elements 1066 that are received in the Fork portions 985 at each end of handle 940. Coupling elements 1066 can be pivotally connected to the fork portions 985 using a pin. The main hinge plate 1054 can be pivotally connected to the pull handle body 1064 at a location closer to the first handle end 1060 of the pull handle body 1064 than to the second handle end 1062. The main hinge plate 1054 and the secondary hinge plate 1056 can be nested together so that when the pull handle assembly 1050 is in the nested configuration, the main hinge plate 1054 is positioned between the pull handle 1052 and the secondary hinge plate 1056, and the secondary hinge plate 1056 is located between the main hinge plate 1054 and side 914. A spring and damper can be connected between the main hinge plate 1054 and the secondary hinge plate 1056 to deflect the pull handle assembly 1050 into a nested position. Furthermore, when the pull handle assembly 1050 is in the nested configuration, the secondary hinge plate 1056 and the primary hinge plate 1054 are substantially parallel to the pull handle 1052. As discussed previously, when the vessel 902 is fitted with the hinged pull handle assembly 1050, the side 914 may include a recess 996 that extends for most of the height of the side 914 to allow the handle assembly 1050 to be nested within the recess 996.

[0247] The pull handle body 1064 may include at least one gripping opening 1068 that extends through the pull handle body 1064 to allow a user to easily grip the pull handle 1052. In some examples, the pull handle body 1064 may include multiple gripping openings 1068 to allow the user flexibility in where they can grip the pull handle body 1064. Each opening 1068 may extend along most of the length of the pull handle body 1064 and may have the same width or different widths. As shown in the illustrated examples, each opening 1068 can be located closer to the first handle end 1060 than to the second handle end 1062 on the pull handle body 1064. The main hinge plate 1054 can be attached to the pull handle body 1064 behind the opening 1068 (closer to the second handle end 1062 than to the opening 1068).

[0249] In addition, Figures 60-63 illustrate the pull handle assembly 1050 as it transitions from a nested configuration shown in Figure 60 to an extended position in Figures 62-63. Figure 61 illustrates the pull handle assembly 1050 in a partially extended condition where the pull handle 1052 is slightly raised and the primary hinge plate 1054 forms an acute angle with the secondary hinge plate 1056. Figures 62-63 illustrate the pull handle assembly 1050 in an extended configuration. When the pull handle 1052 is fully extended, the main hinge plate 1054 can form an acute angle with the secondary hinge plate 1056. The hinge plates 1054, 1056 can act to limit the pull handle 1052 from rotating too much and at the same time provide additional strength to the pull handle assembly 1050.

[0251] The components of the lid support element 1000 and the pull handle assembly 1050 may be formed from polymeric materials, which may be filled or unfilled polymers. For example, the polymeric materials may be PC-ABS, polyethylene, or other similar materials. Furthermore, the components of the lid support element 1000 and the pull handle assembly 1050 may be manufactured using polymer processing techniques, such as various molding and casting techniques and/or other known techniques. Alternatively or optionally, the lid support element 1000 and the pull handle assembly 1050 may be formed from a metallic material such as an aluminum alloy, a magnesium alloy, or another metallic material with a density of less than 3 g/cc. Alternatively, the container components, such as the lid, body, lid support element, and pull handle assembly, may include a structural foam with a composite polymer material having a low-density foam core and a higher-density polymer layer.

[0253] The present invention has been previously disclosed and in the accompanying drawings with reference to a variety of examples. However, the purpose of disclosure is to provide examples of the various features and concepts related to the invention, not to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended independent claims. Anyone skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications can be made to the examples described above.

Claims (8)

1. CLAIMS 1. Container (2), comprising: a base (4) that includes: a side wall structure (6) having a first side (8), a second side (10) opposite the first side, the side wall structure having a first end (16) and a second end (18); a lower portion (20) connected to the first end of the side wall structure; an opening (19) formed at the second end of the side wall structure, opposite the first end, the opening being configured to allow access to an interior void (21) of the container formed by the side wall structure and the lower portion; a retainer (70) extending from the side wall structure, the retainer having an upper surface (72), an inner surface (74) and a lower surface (76); a lid (5), the lid having an open configuration and a closed configuration, the lid being configured to cover the opening formed at the second end of the side wall structure when the container is in the closed configuration; and an interlock assembly (100), the interlock assembly having a locked position and an unlocked position, the interlock assembly comprising; a retainer body (102) pivotally coupled to the lid; a locking element (130) slidably coupled to the retainer body, the locking element being slidable between at least a first position and a second position, the locking element being configured to lock the lid in the closed configuration when the locking element is in the first position and configured to unlock the lid when the locking element is in the second position; at least one deflection element (150) coupled with the retainer body and the locking element, the at least one deflection element being the one that deflects the locking element in the first position; and an actuating element (170) coupled to the retainer body and configured to move the locking element from the first position to the second position, the actuating element comprising an actuating cylinder (176) having a plurality of raised portions (882) that are separated from each other, and wherein a hook portion (142) of the locking element engages with the retainer when the retainer assembly is in the locked position. 2. Container, according to claim 1, wherein the at least one deflection element (850) is positioned laterally between the plurality of raised portions. 3. Container, according to claim 1, wherein the at least one deflection element comprises two deflection elements that are positioned laterally between the plurality of raised portions. 4. Container, according to claim 1, wherein the locking element has at least one coupling element (848) that comes into contact with a raised portion of the plurality of raised portions of the actuating cylinder. 5. Container, according to claim 4, wherein the at least one coupling element comprises two coupling elements that are spaced apart from each other creating an opening (849) between the two coupling elements. 6. Container, according to claim 1, wherein each raised portion of the plurality of raised portions has a substantially triangular shape. 7. Container, according to claim 1, wherein the container includes a second locking assembly, wherein the second locking assembly is located on an opposite side of the container than the first locking assembly. 8. Container, according to claim 1, wherein the container includes a second locking assembly, wherein the second locking assembly is located on an adjacent side of the container as the locking assembly.