DUAL COMPARTMENT STORAGE APPARATUS

Abstract

A dual compartment storage apparatus includes a main compartment defining a first internal volume for holding a first good, a first closure member removably attached to the first end of the main compartment to selectively close the first internal volume, a secondary compartment defining a second internal volume for holding a second good, a second closure member hingedly attached to the secondary compartment, the second closure member operable to selectively open and close the second internal volume, and an attachment mechanism at a bottom end of the secondary compartment, the attachment mechanism configured to attach securely and removably onto the second end of the main compartment, wherein the main compartment and the secondary compartment are configured to be connected end-to-end, allowing separate access to the first and second internal volumes without interfering with each other.

Claims

1. A dual compartment storage apparatus, comprising: a main compartment being cylindrical and having a first end and a second end, the main compartment defining a first internal volume configured to hold a first good; a twist cap having internal threading configured to threadably engage with external threading on the first end of the main compartment to selectively close the first internal volume; a secondary compartment defining a second internal volume configured to hold a second good; a flip cap hingedly attached to the secondary compartment, the flip cap operable to selectively open and close the second internal volume; a ring at a bottom end of the cylindrical element, the ring configured to attach securely onto the second end of the main compartment via a friction fit connection; and wherein the main compartment and the secondary compartment are configured to be connected end-to-end, allowing separate access to the first and second internal volumes without interfering with each other.

2. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the external threading on the first end of the main compartment is located on a reduced diameter portion of the main compartment.

3. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flip cap of the secondary compartment includes a snap-fit mechanism to securely close the second internal volume.

4. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ring at the bottom end of the secondary compartment is configured with an internal diameter slightly smaller than the external diameter of the second end of the main compartment to achieve the friction fit connection.

5. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flip cap is hingedly attached to the secondary compartment via a living hinge integrally formed with the flip cap and the secondary compartment.

6. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a sealing element positioned between the twist cap and the first end of the main compartment to provide an airtight seal for the first internal volume.

7. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the main compartment and the secondary compartment are made from a material selected from the group consisting of plastic, metal, and biodegradable materials.

8. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flip cap of the secondary compartment includes a protruding tab to enhance grip during opening and closing of the flip cap.

9. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the main compartment and the secondary compartment are formed from a transparent or translucent material to allow visual inspection of the contents within the first and second internal volumes.

10. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the twist cap includes external knurling to facilitate easier gripping during opening and closing.

11. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first good is a pre-rolled cigarette and the second good is an edible item.

12. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the secondary compartment is detachable from the main compartment, allowing it to be used independently.

13. A dual compartment storage apparatus, comprising: a main compartment having a first end and a second end, the main compartment defining a first internal volume configured to hold a first good; a first closure member removably attached to the first end of the main compartment to selectively close the first internal volume; a secondary compartment defining a second internal volume configured to hold a second good; a second closure member hingedly attached to the secondary compartment, the second closure member operable to selectively open and close the second internal volume; and an attachment mechanism at a bottom end of the secondary compartment, the attachment mechanism configured to attach securely and removably onto the second end of the main compartment; wherein the main compartment and the secondary compartment are configured to be connected end-to-end, allowing separate access to the first and second internal volumes without interfering with each other.

14. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 13, wherein the first closure member comprises a twist cap.

15. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 14, wherein the second closure member comprises a flip cap.

16. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 15, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises a ring at a bottom end of the secondary compartment, the ring configured to attach securely onto the second end of the main compartment via a friction fit connection.

17. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 16, wherein the main compartment and the secondary compartment are made from a material selected from the group consisting of plastic, metal, and biodegradable materials.

18. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 17, wherein the main compartment and the secondary compartment are formed from a transparent or translucent material to allow visual inspection of the contents within the first and second internal volumes.

19. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 18, wherein the first good is a pre-rolled cigarette and the second good is an edible item.

20. The dual compartment storage apparatus of claim 19, wherein the secondary compartment is detachable from the main compartment, allowing the secondary compartment to be used independently.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the claimed subject matter and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the claimed subject matter. The embodiments illustrated herein are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the claimed subject matter is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown, wherein:

[0015] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of the dual compartment storage apparatus in an open configuration of use, in accordance with one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a top view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a side view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a front view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a rear view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the dual compartment storage apparatus in a closed configuration of use, in accordance with one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 8.

[0024] FIG. 10 is a top view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 8.

[0025] FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 8.

[0026] FIG. 12 is a front view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 8.

[0027] FIG. 13 is a side view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 8.

[0028] FIG. 14 is a rear view of the dual compartment storage apparatus of FIG. 8.

[0029] FIG. 15 is a side exploded view of the dual compartment storage apparatus in an open configuration of use, in accordance with one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of the secondary compartment of the dual compartment storage apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of the secondary compartment of the dual compartment storage apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While embodiments of the claimed subject matter may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed methods. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the claimed subject matter. Instead, the proper scope of the claimed subject matter is defined by the appended claims.

[0033] The claimed embodiments of the dual compartment storage apparatus improve over the prior art by addressing the limitations inherent in existing storage solutions. Traditional containers typically feature a single compartment, restricting users to carrying only one type of item at a time and necessitating multiple containers for different items. The claimed embodiments combine two separate storage compartmentsmain compartment 102 and secondary compartment 120within a single, compact unit, allowing users to store multiple items independently while maintaining their separation.

[0034] The claimed embodiments also overcomes the problem in the prior art where accessing one compartment often exposes the contents of another, risking contamination or environmental exposure. The claimed embodiments also introduce improved sealing mechanisms to protect the integrity of stored items. This feature addresses the inadequacies of prior containers that lack sufficient sealing, which can lead to degradation of perishable items and unintended spillage.

[0035] Material selection further distinguishes the claimed embodiments from existing solutions. By constructing both compartments from durable, food-grade materials like plastic, metal, or biodegradable substances, the claimed embodiments are suitable for storing a wide range of items, including consumables. This features enhances durability and ensures that the container is appropriate for items requiring specific storage conditions, a limitation often observed in prior art. Additionally, the claimed embodiments' compact and ergonomic design enhances portability without sacrificing storage capacity. The cylindrical shape and streamlined connection between the main compartment 102 and the secondary compartment 120 make it convenient for users to carry the apparatus in pockets, bags, or other confined spaces.

[0036] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate various example embodiments. The claimed dual compartment storage tube 100 will now be described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 17.

[0037] The dual compartment storage apparatus 100 provides a solution for separately storing multiple items within a single, compact unit. The apparatus comprises a main compartment 102 and a secondary compartment 120, each designed to securely hold different goods while preventing any interference between them.

[0038] The main compartment 102 is a cylindrical tube made from a durable material such as plastic or glass. The main compartment 102 may also be transparent or translucent to allow users to visually inspect the contents without opening it. This material selection ensures the container is sturdy enough to protect fragile items like pre-rolled cigarettes while also being suitable for various environmental considerations. In one embodiment, the main compartment measures approximately 5 and 2/16 inches in length and approximately one inch in diameter.

[0039] The main compartment 102 has a uniform diameter along its length, except at the first end 104, where it features a reduced diameter portion 105 with external threading 106. This external threading 106 is designed to engage with the internal threading of a twist cap 110, allowing the first internal volume 112 of the main compartment 102 to be selectively closed. The twist cap 110 may include external knurling 111 to facilitate easier gripping during opening and closing. A sealing element, such as an O-ring or a disc made from rubber or silicone or plastic, can be positioned between the twist cap 110 and the first end 104 of the main compartment 102 to provide an airtight seal, preserving the freshness and integrity of the first good stored within the internal volume 112.

[0040] The second end 114 of the main compartment 102 is configured to interact with the secondary compartment 120. The external surface at the second end 114 may have a smooth finish to facilitate a friction fit connection with the secondary compartment 120.

[0041] The secondary compartment 120 comprises a cylindrical element 122 with a floor 123 that together define a second internal volume 124 configured to hold a second good, such as an edible item. The cylindrical element 122 is made from materials similar to those of the main compartment 102, ensuring compatibility and durability. Attached to the top of the cylindrical element 122 is a flip cap 126, hingedly connected via a living hinge 127 integrally formed with the flip cap 126 and the cylindrical element 122. This design allows for easy opening and closing of the second internal volume 124 while maintaining structural integrity. The flip cap 126 may include a protruding tab 128 or external ridges to enhance grip during operation. A snap-fit mechanism within the flip cap 126 ensures that it remains securely closed when not in use, providing protection against contamination and spillage.

[0042] At the bottom of the cylindrical element 122 is a ring 131 designed for attachment to the main compartment 102. The ring 131 has an internal diameter slightly smaller than the external diameter of the second end 114 of the main compartment 102. This size difference creates a secure friction fit connection 132 when the secondary compartment 120 is attached to the main compartment 102. The friction fit connection 132 allows for easy attachment and detachment without the need for additional tools or mechanisms. This design ensures that the secondary compartment 120 can be used independently if desired, adding to the versatility of the apparatus.

[0043] The interaction between the main compartment 102 and the secondary compartment 120 is as follows. When connected end-to-end, the two compartments form a single, streamlined unit that is easy to carry and store. Despite being connected, each compartment maintains independent access through its respective closuresthe twist cap 110 for the main compartment 102 and the flip cap 126 for the secondary compartment 120. This independence ensures that accessing the contents of one compartment does not expose or affect the contents of the other, thereby preventing cross-contamination and preserving the integrity of both goods.

[0044] The apparatus works by providing secure, separate storage spaces within a single device, addressing the need for carrying multiple items without them interacting. For example, a user can store a pre-rolled cigarette in the main compartment 102 and an edible item in the secondary compartment 120. The airtight seals provided by the twist cap 110 and the snap-fit flip cap 126 ensure that odors do not escape and that the items remain fresh. The durable materials protect the contents from physical damage, and the compact design enhances portability.

[0045] By incorporating features such as the friction fit connection 132, the apparatus allows for modularity and user customization. Users can choose to attach or detach the secondary compartment 120 based on their needs. The transparent or translucent materials used for the compartments enable users to check the contents at a glance, adding to the convenience.

[0046] Referring now to FIG. 15, the dual compartment storage apparatus 100 is illustrated in an exploded, disassembled view, showcasing how the individual components fit together. The main compartment 102 is shown with its first end 104 and second end 114 clearly visible. The twist cap 110 is depicted separate from the main compartment 102, highlighting the external threading 106 on the reduced diameter portion 105 of the main compartment 102. This illustrates how the twist cap 110 threadably engages with the main compartment 102 to selectively close the first internal volume 112.

[0047] The secondary compartment 120 is also shown detached from the main compartment 102 in FIG. 15. The flip cap 126 is hingedly attached to the cylindrical element 122 of the secondary compartment 120 via the living hinge 127. The ring 131 at the bottom end 130 of the cylindrical element 122 is prominently displayed, emphasizing its role in attaching the secondary compartment 120 to the second end 114 of the main compartment 102. The ring 131, with its internal diameter 133 slightly smaller than the external diameter of the second end 114, ensures a secure friction fit connection 132 when assembled. This disassembled view effectively demonstrates the assembly process of the apparatus 100, showing the interaction and connectivity between the main compartment 102, the twist cap 110, and the secondary compartment 120.

[0048] Turning to FIG. 16, a cross-sectional view of the secondary compartment 120 is presented, focusing on the ring 131 and its inner diameter 133. The cross section reveals the internal structure of the ring 131, illustrating how the inner diameter 133 is precisely sized to fit snugly over the second end 114 of the main compartment 102. This snug fit comprises the friction fit connection 132 that securely attaches the secondary compartment 120 to the main compartment 102. The cross-sectional view also details the thickness and material composition of the ring 131, providing insight into its durability and strength when forming the connection.

[0049] FIG. 17 offers a bottom perspective view of the secondary compartment 120, highlighting the ring 131, the floor 123 of the cylindrical element 122, and the inner diameter 133. The floor 123 is visible through the open bottom of the cylindrical element 122, demonstrating how it encloses the second internal volume 124 from below. The ring 131 extends outward from the bottom end 130 of the cylindrical element 122, and its inner diameter 133 is shown, emphasizing its role in creating the friction fit connection 132 with the main compartment 102. This view underscores the alignment and integration of the ring 131 with the floor 123, ensuring that the secondary compartment 120 maintains its structural integrity when attached to or detached from the main compartment 102. The detailed depiction of the ring 131 and the floor 123 in FIG. 17 clarifies how these components function together to facilitate the secure attachment and proper sealing of the secondary compartment 120.

[0050] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.