Elevated storage for transportation and storage of food items

Abstract

ce protects food items from external elements during their storage and transport. The elevated storage device may comprise a base, one or more wheels, and a protective cover. The wheels allow the elevated storage device to be easily moved. In one embodiment, a hitch is attached to the base to allow the elevated storage device to be moved by a vehicle, person, or animal. The protective cover may comprise one or more layers of material, such as wire mesh or fabric, which form a compartment to protect food items from external elements, and may be supported by a skeleton. The protective cover may have one or more openings to allow food items to be placed therein and removed therefrom. In one embodiment, the protective cover is triangular in shape to better protect food items from weather such as rain and snow.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001]1. Field of the Invention

[0002]The invention relates to the transportation and storage of food items and specifically to a novel elevated storage device for transporting and storing one or more food items.

[0003]2. Related Art

[0004]Storage of food items can be a complex and expensive process. Traditional storage facilities are often designed for the storage and transportation of relatively large quantities of food items. Thus, they are not well suited for storing smaller quantities of food items like those associated with individuals or small businesses. Similarly, traditional storage facilities are generally not configured to allow food items to be easily transported from one location to another as food items must first be removed from the storage facility and placed in a vehicle for transport.

[0005]In many cases, the purchase or lease of a warehouse would not be appropriate in terms of size and cost for the storage of an individual's food items. An individual may of course use consumer storage facilities to store and transport food items. However, this may be insufficient. For example, food items may be stored in an individual's personal property, such as a room of their home or other dwelling or even a storage unit. However, this may not adequately protect the food items and is inconvenient due to the space requirements for the items.

[0006]Transporting food items with one's personal vehicle or even a rental vehicle may not be desirable especially for long distances. This is primarily because these vehicles are not designed to protect food items. Also, the storage of food items in a personal vehicle is inconvenient due to the space requirements for the items.

[0007]In addition, transportation and storage of food items traditionally requires a transport mechanism, such as a vehicle, as well as a storage mechanism, such as a storage facility. These separate mechanisms add additional cost and labor to the storage and transport of food items.

[0008]Thus, what is provided herein is a novel container elevated storage device for the storage and convenient transport of food items.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009]An elevated storage device for storage and transport of food items is provided herein. The elevated storage device protects the food items allowing them to be stored for long periods. In addition the food items are protected during transport and do not have to be unloaded for storage because they may be safely stored in the elevated storage device. It is contemplated that items other than food items may be stored and transported by the elevated storage device if desired.

[0010]In one embodiment, the elevated storage device comprises a base comprising a rigid frame, one or more wheels attached to the base, at least one hitch attached to the base, and a storage compartment. The storage compartment may comprise a triangular skeleton and a protective cover around the triangular skeleton, and may also be attached to the base. The protective cover may comprise an opening to allow access to the closed compartment for loading and unloading food items.

[0011]The protective cover may comprise one or more layers of material. For example, the protective cover may comprise an inner and outer layer, the inner layer being a flexible layer and the outer layer being a rigid mesh layer. The protective cover may also comprise an inner and outer layer where the inner layer is a fabric layer and the outer layer being is wire mesh layer. The protective cover may also comprise at least one insulating layer in one or more embodiments.

[0012]In one embodiment, the elevated storage device may comprise a skeleton, a protective cover around the skeleton, a base configured to support the skeleton and the protective cover whereby at least a portion of the protective cover is between the skeleton and the base, one or more wheels attached to the base, and at least one hitch attached to the base. The skeleton may have various shapes such as a triangular or semicircular shape in one or more embodiments. The protective cover will typically, but not always, have opening to allow one or more food items to be placed on the base of the elevated storage device.

[0013]Similar to the above, the protective cover here may also comprise one or more layers of material. For example, the protective cover may comprise a fabric layer and a rigid mesh layer. In addition, the protective cover may comprise a waterproof layer and a rigid mesh layer. Further, the protective cover may comprise an insulating layer and a rigid mesh layer. It is contemplated that the protective cover may comprise an outermost layer, the outermost layer being a wire mesh layer in one or more embodiments.

[0014]The elevated storage device may include a conveyer system to automate loading and unloading of the elevated storage device. In one embodiment the elevated storage device further comprises one or more guides having one or more channels, and a conveyer system comprising a plurality of rollers and a conveyer belt, the conveyer system retained in the one or more channels of the one or more guides. Typically, but not always, the one or more guides will be attached below the base.

[0015]A method for storing and transporting food items with an elevated storage device is also provided. In one embodiment the method comprises providing access to an interior portion of a protective cover by opening one or more layers of the protective cover, moving one or more food items to an elevated position corresponding to the base of the elevated storage device, placing one or more food items within the interior portion of the protective cover whereby the one or more food items are placed on top of at least a portion of the protective cover and the base, and closing the one or more layers of the protective cover such that the one or more food items are surrounded by the protective cover.

[0016]Depending on the embodiment, opening the one or more layers of the protective cover may comprise various steps. For example, opening the one or more layers of the protective cover may comprise opening a rigid mesh layer of the protective cover and a flexible layer of the protective cover. In addition, opening the one or more layers of the protective cover may comprise opening a wire mesh layer of the protective cover and a fabric layer of the protective cover. Further, opening the one or more layers of the protective cover may comprise opening an insulating layer of the protective cover.

[0017]The elevated storage device may be moved according to the method as well. For instance, in one embodiment, the method may include attaching a hitch of the elevated storage device to a vehicle, moving the elevated storage device to a delivery location, opening one or more layers of the protective cover to access the one or more food items, and removing the one or more food items.

[0018]Once delivered or when desired, food items may be removed from the elevated storage device according to the method. In one embodiment the method may include removing the protective cover from a supporting skeleton, inserting the skeleton into a new protective cover comprising at least one distinct layer whereby the at least one distinct layer is different from one or more of the one or more layers of the protective cover, and attaching the new protective cover to the base of the elevated storage device.

[0019]Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the invention will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020]The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

[0021]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an elevated storage device;

[0022]FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a base and top of an exemplary elevated storage device;

[0023]FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a base and open top of an exemplary elevated storage device;

[0024]FIG. 2c is a perspective view of a frame of an exemplary elevated storage device;

[0025]FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a single wheel and two hitch configuration of an exemplary elevated storage device;

[0026]FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a two wheel and single hitch configuration of an exemplary elevated storage device;

[0027]FIG. 3C is a perspective view of a four wheel and single hitch configuration of an exemplary elevated storage device;

[0028]FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the layers of an exemplary protective cover;

[0029]FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an open protective cover of an exemplary elevated storage device;

[0030]FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a closed protective cover of an exemplary elevated storage device;

[0031]FIG. 5c is a perspective view of a skeleton of an exemplary elevated storage device;

[0032]FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a retracted conveyer system of an exemplary elevated storage device;

[0033]FIG. 6B is a perspective view of an extended conveyer system of an exemplary elevated storage device; and

[0034]FIG. 6C is a front cross section view of a conveyer system of an exemplary elevated storage device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0035]In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.

[0036]In one or more embodiments, the elevated storage device herein provides protection, mobility, or both to one or more food items. As used herein, food items refers to edible matter. It is contemplated that the elevated storage device will be typically, but not always, configured to store food items comprising biological or natural material such as food products or other agricultural products. For example, some of the food items that may be transported and stored include but are not limited to as grain, wheat, barley, rye, maize, or rice, and potatoes. The food items may be transported and stored within an elevated storage device in their own packaging such as but not limited to sacks, boxes, bags, and crates. It is noted that non-food items may also be stored and transported with the elevated storage device herein as well.

[0037]Food items are vulnerable to a variety of external elements. For example, food items may rot, decay, or otherwise degrade when exposed to high humidity, heat, cold, or rain. Food items comprising biological material may be vulnerable to vermin, insects, rodents, or other animal life. In addition, these types of food items provide a nutrition source for other life forms, including mold and bacteria which can rapidly destroy a food item. The fact that the food items may be food products only increases the risk of damage to the items as it serves to attract destructive forces seeking a source of food. Worse yet, contamination of a portion of the food items may render all the food items undesirable, unusable, or even hazardous for human consumption.

[0038]In general, the elevated storage device protects food items by providing physical barriers to external elements which may damage the items. The elevated storage device also stores food items at an elevated position above the ground. This protects the food items from water damage that would ordinarily occur if the food items were stored low to the ground. It is contemplated that the elevated storage device may be configured such that food items are stored several feet off the ground. In this manner, food items may be protected even from large floods. Additionally, as will be discussed below, the elevated storage device allows food items to be transported while the food items remain protected. In this manner, the elevated storage device may provide both transportation and storage of food items in a convenient manner.

[0039]This is advantageous to individuals, small business, and others which may not have the quantities of food items sufficient to justify specialized equipment for the transport and storage of food items. In fact, the elevated storage device is very well suited for individuals, government entities, and small businesses having food items too numerous to be adequately stored or transported by make shift or consumer grade transportation and storage mechanisms.

[0040]To illustrate, a small farmer or distributor may produce a quantity of grain (or other food items) that is difficult to transport, let alone store, in his or her personal vehicle(s). Rather than purchase or lease a specially designed vehicle and storage facility, the small farmer may utilize the elevated storage device herein to safely store the grain (or other food items) conveniently and inexpensively.

[0041]It is contemplated that the elevated storage device may also be advantageous to larger businesses and others who have large quantities of food items. This is because a plurality of elevated storage devices may be used to store and transport large quantities of food items as will be described further below. The plurality of elevated storage devices, when combined, may be used as a warehouse to store numerous food items.

[0042]The elevated storage device will now be described with regard to the figures. FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary elevated storage device comprising a base 104, one or more wheels 108, and a protective cover 112. In one or more embodiments, the elevated storage device may include a hitch which allows the trailer to be pulled or otherwise moved. As will be described further below, the protective cover 112 may be used to protect the food items, while the one or more wheels 108 and hitch 316 allow the food items to be easily transported.

[0043]FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate various embodiments of a base 104 for the elevated storage device. The base 104 generally provides a structure to which other elements of an elevated storage device may be attached. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the protective cover 112, hitch 316, and wheels 108 are supported by the base 104. The base 104 also provides a structure which supports the one or more food items a user desires to place in the elevated storage device.

[0044]Typically, the base 104 will be constructed from one or more rigid materials to give the base 104 a rigid structure capable of supporting its elements as well as the food items. The rigid structure of the base 104 also may allow the elevated storage device to transport food items across rough terrain. In addition, the rigid structure adds to the reliability of the elevated storage device.

[0045]In one embodiment, the base 104 may be constructed from one or more metals. Typically, but not always, steel will be used to construct the base 104. It will be understood that other suitably rigid materials, such as but not limited to wood, plastic, carbon fiber, alloys, or a combination thereof may be used. It is noted that the material chosen may depend on the environment the elevated storage device is to be used in. For example, in high humidity areas, a rust resistant material may be used. The material chosen may also depend on the intended load of the elevated storage device. For example, if intended to transport a relatively small amount of material, wood or plastic may be used. Of course, though additional maintenance may be required, various materials may be used regardless of how or where the elevated storage device is intended to be used.

[0046]Though shown as rectangular in shape, it is noted that the base 104 may have various shapes. For example, the base 104 may have a rounded shape or a square shape. It is contemplated that the base 104 may be shaped according to its intended use in one or more embodiments. For example, if intended to be parked in a parking lot, the base 104 may be a rectangular shape corresponding to a parking space. If intended to store food items of a particular size, the base 104 may be shaped to allow a plurality of such items with little wasted space. It is noted that the shape of the base 104 generally defines the peripheral shape of the elevated storage device (when viewed from above) in one or more embodiments.

[0047]In some embodiments, the base 104 may have a planar top 208 such as shown in FIG. 2A. This allows various types of food items to be placed on the base 104. As will be described further below, FIG. 2c illustrates an exemplary base 104 without a top 208.

[0048]The top 208 of the base 104 may include one or more openings 212 in some embodiments. This is illustrated in FIG. 2B where the top 208 has a plurality of square openings 212. The openings 212 allow for ventilation and lighten the overall weight of the base 104 and the elevated storage device while allowing the top 208 to support food items. The ventilation may be desirable for certain food items where circulation of air helps prevent the rot, mold or bacterial growth, and other degradation of the items. The openings 212 may also allow any accumulated moisture to drain through the bottom of the elevated storage device further preventing degradation of the food items.

[0049]As stated, the openings 212 shown in FIG. 2B are generally square in shape. It is noted that openings 212 of other shapes may be used. In addition, the openings 212 may be various sizes. Openings 212 of various sizes and shapes allow the base 104 to support different food items. For example, some food items may undesirably protrude through an opening 212 if the opening is too large. In addition, some food items may fall through an opening 212. It is contemplated that the openings 212 may also be sized and shaped to prevent access to the food items by one or more insects, rodents, other animals, humans, or other external elements.

[0050]In one or more embodiments, the base 104 may comprise a frame 204 which forms a rigid structure to which other elements of the elevated storage device may be attached. An example of this is illustrated in FIG. 2C. As shown, the frame 204 comprises one or more elongated members which generally form the rectangular structure of the base 104. The frame 204 may be formed from rigid materials similar to those described above in one or more embodiments. It will be understood that the frame 204 may be configured in various shapes and sizes and formed with various connected members or structures in one or more embodiments.

[0051]In embodiments having a top 208, the top may be attached to the frame. It is contemplated that the top 208 may be removably attached in one or more embodiments to allow tops to be replaced when worn or with other tops better suited for the task at hand. Removable attachment may be accomplished by one or more fasteners such as but not limited to screws, nuts, bolts, clips, clamps, hook and loop, magnets, or a combination thereof. It is contemplated that the frame 204 may include one or more guides such as one or more protrusions or channels which help to properly locate and secure a top 208 in place. For example, the frame 204 may have one or more protrusions which correspond to openings or depressions on the bottom side of the top 208. Alternatively, or in addition, the frame 204 may include one or more channels which a top 208 may slide into. The top 208 may then be secured in place by one or more screws, bolts, or other fasteners if desired. Of course, the top 208 may be suitably secured without additional fasteners in one or more embodiments.

[0052]In one or more embodiments, wheels 108 may be attached to the base 104 to allow the elevated storage device to be moved. It is contemplated that the elevated storage device may comprise one or more wheels 108 such as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C. Typically, but not always, the elevated storage device will comprise at least two wheels 108. This increases stability of the elevated storage device as it is moved and when it is stationary. It is noted however that an elevated storage device with one wheel 108 may provide superior maneuverability at the cost of stability.

[0053]Various types of wheels 108, now known or later developed, may be used with the elevated storage device. For example, automobile, bicycle, motorcycle, and other vehicle wheels may be used with the elevated storage device. In one embodiment, a wheel 108 comprises a circular hub or center portion surrounded by a traction portion. For example, the wheel 108 may be a metal hub around which an inflatable rubber or other tire is attached for traction. In another embodiment, a wheel 108 may comprise a metal traction portion such as in the case of a wagon wheel or train wheel.

[0054]The wheel 108 or wheels may be mounted on one or more axles 304 attached beneath the base 104 in one or more embodiments. In some embodiments, however, the wheels 108 may be attached on the sides of the base 104 such as shown in FIG. 3A. It will be understood that the one or more wheels 108 and axles 304 may be attached at various other locations which allow the elevated storage device to move on its wheel(s). For example, one or more axles 304 may be mounted above (or below) the base 104 in a wheel well or the like in one or more embodiments.

[0055]In one or more embodiments, each wheel 108 may have its own axle 304 such as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C. In other embodiments axles 304 may be shared by a plurality of wheels 108 such as shown in FIG. 3B. An axle mount 312 may be used to secure an axle 304 to the base 104 of an elevated storage device in one or more embodiments. It is contemplated that an axle 304 may turn in one or more embodiments to allow one or more wheels 108 to be steerable.

[0056]It is noted that the wheels 108 raise the height of the base 104 such that the base does not touch the ground in one or more embodiments. This allows food items to be stored at an elevated position above the ground which provides protection from vermin rodents, water, dust, dirt, debris, and other external elements which may occur at ground level. The wheels 108 may thus be various diameters to raise the height of the base 104 as desired.

[0057]In one or more embodiments, the base 104 of the elevated storage device may include a hitch 316. It is noted that a hitch 316 is not required and thus may not be provided in all embodiments. It is also noted that in one or more embodiments, a hitch 316 may be provided as an add-on component. To illustrate, a hitch may be attached to the base 104 of the elevated storage device in FIG. 1.

[0058]Referring back to FIGS. 3A-3C, when attached, a hitch 316 generally provides a connection point through which a force may be applied to the elevated storage device to move the trailer. For example, the elevated storage device may be pulled, pushed, or otherwise moved through its hitch 316. A hitch 316 may also be used to attach a plurality of elevated storage devices together. In this manner, elevated storage devices may support one another, be moved together, or both.

[0059]A hitch 316 may also increase the stability of the elevated storage device when in motion and stationary. For example, one or more hitches 316 may be connected to a vehicle or a stationary structure to support and thus increase the stability of the elevated storage device. In one or more embodiments, a hitch 316 may be used to secure an elevated storage device in place. For example, the hitch 316 may include a locking mechanism which prevents the hitch from being released unless the proper key or code is used. In one embodiment, the elevated storage device may be locked with a chain and padlock.

[0060]This can be seen by the embodiments of FIGS. 3A and 3C, which may tilt when not connected to a supporting vehicle, structure, or object. As can be seen, the hitch of these figures is connected to a stationary object 308 by a rigid connector 324, such as a metal connector, or a flexible connector 320, such as a strap or tie. It is contemplated that a plurality of hitches 316, such as shown in FIG. 3C, may be provided in one or more embodiments to provide additional stability or to spread the load that would ordinarily be borne by a single hitch.

[0061]A hitch 316 may be any structure capable that allows a sufficiently strong physical connection to the elevated storage device. The strength of the connection may be determined by the load, weight, speed, stability and other characteristics of the elevated storage device when in use. In one embodiment, the hitch 316 comprises a hole or opening through which a screw, bolt, peg, strap, or other structure may be inserted to connect the elevated storage device to another object, such as a vehicle. In another embodiment, the hitch 316 comprises a protrusion that may be inserted or held by a portion of another object to connect the elevated storage device to such object. The hitch 316 may be various existing devices as well. For example, the hitch 316 may a trailer hitch which allows a connection to a vehicle such as a bicycle, car, truck, or the like. The hitch 316 may also be a harness attachment point which connects to a harness to allow one or more people or animals to move the elevated storage device.

[0062]It is contemplated that one or more handles may be provided in addition to or instead of a hitch in one or more embodiments to allow a person to move the elevated storage device. In addition, it will be understood that the elevated storage device may be pulled, pushed, or otherwise moved even if it does not include a hitch. For example, the elevated storage device may be pushed by its base.

[0063]The protective cover 112 may be configured in various ways to protect various food items from various external elements. In one or more embodiments, the protective cover 112 provides a physical barrier between external elements and the food items. In general, the protective cover 112 prevents external elements from reaching food items within the elevated storage device by providing a compartment in which food items may be placed. The compartment may protect food items from all directions in one or more embodiments. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the protective cover 112 provides a compartment which surrounds a volume of space on all sides. Food items placed within the compartment would thus be protected from all directions. As will be discussed further below, a protective cover 112 may be attached to the base 104, top, or both in one or more embodiments.

[0064]Referring to FIG. 1, the protective cover 112 may be formed from one or more materials capable of providing such a barrier between the external elements and the food items. In one embodiment, the protective cover 112 may be formed from natural or synthetic fabrics or sheets such as but not limited to plastic, canvas, burlap, nylon, denim, KEVLAR® (trademark of DuPont), TYVEK® (trademark of DuPont) or a combination thereof. The sheets will typically, but not always, be flexible. It is contemplated that fabric or other sheets may be treated or constructed such that it they are waterproof. This allows the fabric to prevent water from reaching the food items.

[0065]The protective cover 112 may also be formed from rigid or semi-rigid materials and structures as well. For example, the protective cover 112 may be formed from materials such as but not limited to wire, wood, metal, fiberglass, carbon fiber, cement board, foam, or a combination thereof. These materials may be treated or constructed such that they are waterproof as well.

[0066]The protective cover 112 may have one or more layers in one or more embodiments such as shown in FIG. 4. Each layer may comprise a particular material. Each layer may also be substantially solid, such as a plastic sheet or fabric, or may have an open configuration such as a mesh or web. The one or more layers of a protective cover 112 may be connected by one or more fasteners or adhesives. In one embodiment, the one or more layers may be sewn together. FIG. 4 shows a portion of an exemplary protective cover 112 having an inner layer 404 and an outer layer 408. In this embodiment, the inner layer 404 is a fabric material while the outer layer 408 is a mesh. As used herein, the outer or outermost layer 408 will refer to the layer of a protective cover not covered by any other layer. It is noted that there may be multiple inner layers and generally only one outer or outermost layer in one or more embodiments. It will be understood that a variety of different layers may be used to form a protective cover 112 in one or more embodiments.

[0067]The various layers of a protective cover 112 are advantageous in that each layer may be configured to protect the food items from one or more particular external elements. For example, a fabric layer may be used to protect from rain, humidity, wind, and UV light. A foam or other insulating layer may be used to protect from harmful temperatures. A wire or other mesh layer may be used to protect from physical damage caused by objects, animals, or people.

[0068]The protective cover 112 may be configured in various shapes and sizes. In one embodiment, the protective cover 112 has a triangular shape such as shown in FIGS. 5A-5B. This is advantageous in that the slanted shape of the protective cover 112 helps shed water, dust, and other external elements that may come into contact with the protective cover. In addition, the slanted shape prevents rain, snow, and the like from accumulating and potentially causing the protective cover 112 to sag or break. Of course, the protective cover 112 may come in other shapes as well. For example, the protective cover 112 may be rectangular, circular, semi-circular, round, or other shapes.

[0069]A portion of the protective cover 112 may be removable or may be configured to open to allow food items to be placed inside and removed from the elevated storage device. FIG. 5A shows a protective cover 112 with its front portion open. It is noted that a protective cover 112 may be configured to open in various ways.

[0070]In one or more embodiments, the protective cover 112 may have a portion held closed by, and thus may be opened through, one or more fasteners 512. As shown in FIG. 5A, fasteners 512 generally border the opening at the front portion of the protective cover 112 to allow the protective cover to be opened and closed. Various types of fasteners 512 may be used, including but not limited to, one or more zippers, buttons, snaps, hook and loop, or other fasteners, or a combination thereof to allow a portion of the protective cover 112 to be opened. As shown in FIG. 1, for example, a hook and loop fastener 120 is used to allow the protective cover 112 to be opened. In one embodiment, a fastener 512 may be locked to prevent the protective cover 112 from being opened without authorization. For example, a combination lock, padlock, or other lock may be used with a fastener 512 to prevent the fastener from being opened without a key or code. In one embodiment, a lock is used to prevent the slider of a zipper from moving thus preventing unauthorized opening.

[0071]Generally, opening the protective cover 112 includes opening a portion of each layer of the protective cover by undoing one or more fasteners 512. It is contemplated that each layer may have its own fasteners 512. For example, each layer may have its own zipper. It is also contemplated that the layers may share one or more fasteners 512. For example, multiple layers of the protective cover may be sewn or otherwise attached to a single zipper or other fastener 512. It is contemplated that the protective cover 112 may include one or more hinges to allow the protective cover to be opened.

[0072]When desired, the protective cover 112 may be closed as shown in FIG. 5B. In this manner, food items may be protected on all sides from external elements. The protective cover 112 may be closed by using the one or more fasteners 512 to secure the previously opened portion of the protective cover such that it is closed. For example, one or more zippers may be zipped to secure a previously opened portion of a protective cover.

[0073]The protective cover 112 may have a bottom portion 504 in one or more embodiments. In this way, the protective cover 112 may wrap around the bottom of the food items to protect the food items from all directions. In use, food items may be placed within the protective cover 112 on the bottom portion 504 of the protective cover. The base 104 may support the bottom portion 504 to prevent the bottom portion from sagging or breaking. It is noted that, in one or more embodiments, the protective cover 112 may not have a bottom portion 504 as the base of the elevated storage device may protect the bottom of the food items.

[0074]It is contemplated that in embodiments without a bottom portion 504, food items may be placed on the base of an elevated storage device and the protected by lowering a protective cover 112 over the food items. In these embodiments, the protective cover 112 does not need to be configured to open as it may be lifted off the base of the elevated storage device to allow one or more food items to be placed or removed in the elevated storage device.

[0075]In one or more embodiments, the protective cover 112 may be rigid or semi-rigid to allow it to hold its shape. One or more of layers of a protective cover 112 may configured to support the weight of the protective cover 112 allowing it to hold a shape. For example, the protective covers 112 of FIGS. 5A-5B include a wire or other mesh layer which allow the protective covers 112 to hold their triangular shapes.

[0076]In addition, or alternatively, a protective cover 112 may be supported by a skeleton 508 which allows or helps a protective cover 112 hold its shape. Generally, the skeleton 508 will be a rigid or semi-rigid structure capable of holding the shape of the protective cover 112. The skeleton 508 may comprise one or more elongated members in some embodiments. It will be understood that any suitably rigid material may be used to form the skeleton including but not limited to metal, plastic, wood, allows, carbon fiber, fiberglass, or a combination thereof. The skeleton 508 may be attached to the base of an elevated storage device by one or more fasteners including but not limited to nuts, bolts, screws, pins, clamps, clips, or a combination thereof. The skeleton 508 may also be welded to the base in some embodiments. It is contemplated that the skeleton 508 may not be attached to the base and instead be held to the base by a protective cover 112 which is attached to the base.

[0077]The protective cover 112 may be configured to generally conform to the shape of the skeleton 508 allowing the protective cover to be secured to the skeleton without fasteners and to take the shape of the skeleton. Of course, the protective cover 112 may also be secured by one or more fasteners if desired. For example, the protective cover 112 may be sewn, screwed, welded, tied, or otherwise attached to its skeleton 508. The skeleton 508 may be configured in various shapes to give the protective cover 112 various shapes. For instance, in FIG. 5c, the skeleton 508 is a triangular shape.

[0078]It is contemplated that the protective cover 112 may be removable in one or more embodiments. In these embodiments, a protective cover 112 may be replaced because it is worn or damaged, or may be replaced with a protective cover 112 better suited for the food items and external elements at hand. In general, the protective cover 112 may be made removable by utilizing one or more removable fasteners to attach the protective cover. For example, one or more nuts, bolts, screws, hook and loop fasteners, zippers, clips, clamps, ties, or a combination thereof may be used to attach the protective cover 112 to the base or top of an elevated storage device, a skeleton 508, or a combination thereof. These fasteners may then be removed to allow the protective cover 112 to be removed and replaced. It will be understood that the base, top, or skeleton 508 of the elevated storage device may include one or more attachment points such as but not limited to threaded or other holes, hooks, loops, or a combination thereof to allow the protective cover 112 to be more easily attached thereto. It will be understood that the protective cover 112 may be attached by fasteners which may not be removable or easily removable such as welds and adhesives in one or more embodiments.

[0079]In one or more embodiments, an elevated storage device may include a conveyer system to allow for rapid loading and unloading of food items. FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an elevated storage device including a conveyer system 604. It will be understood that the elevated storage device may be used with various other conveyer systems 604 in one or more embodiments.

[0080]As shown, the conveyer system 604 comprises a conveyer belt 608 supported by a plurality of rollers 612. The conveyer system 604 may be powered by a motor in one or more embodiments. It is contemplated that the elevated storage device may include its own power source to power the motor or that external power may be used such as power from a wall outlet, vehicle, or an engine. Food items may be placed on the conveyer system 604 and moved by the conveyer system toward or away from the elevated storage device.

[0081]FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate a conveyer system 604 that may extend and retract. This allows the conveyer system 604 to be stowed away such that it is unobtrusive. This is illustrated by FIG. 6A which shows a conveyer system 604 retracted beneath the base 104 of the elevated storage device. The conveyer system 604 may then extend when needed such as shown in FIG. 6B.

[0082]It is contemplated that, once extended, the conveyer system 604 may also tilt upwards and downwards relative to the elevated storage device. For example, the conveyer system 604, or a portion thereof, may be attached to the base of an elevated storage device by a swiveling or rotating hinge type structure. In this manner, the conveyer system 604 may be pointed towards an external object allowing food items to be conveniently loaded and unloaded from various locations outside the elevated storage device. For example, the conveyer system 604 may be rotated towards the bed of a truck or other vehicle. In this way, food items may be easily placed on the conveyer system 604 directly from the truck, or vice versa.

[0083]FIG. 6C is a front cross section view of the elevated storage device illustrating exemplary guides 616 attached to the base 104 of an elevated storage device which allow a conveyer system 604 to extend and retract. The guides 616 are generally formed as channels in this embodiment. The conveyer system 604 may include one or more extensions 620 which extend outward from the sides of the conveyer system. It is contemplated that the extensions 620 may extend outward from one or more of the rollers in some embodiments. The extensions 620 may be inserted into the guides 616 as shown in FIG. 6C. In this manner, the conveyer system 604 may slide along the guides 616 by their extensions 620.

[0084]The conveyer system 604 may be extended such as by pulling the conveyer system outward from the elevated storage device along the guides 616. Once extended, a set of extensions 612 may remain within the guides 616. In this manner, the conveyer system 604 may rotate about the extensions 612 within the guides 616 to be tilted upwards or downwards if desired. It is contemplated that various mechanisms may be used to allow the conveyer system 604 to extend and retract. In embodiments without a conveyer system 604, it is contemplated that one or more structures may be provided on the base 104 of the elevated storage device to allow a conveyer system 604 to be conveniently attached.

[0085]As stated above the elevated storage device provides both storage and transport for food items. It can be seen that the elevated storage device's protective cover and other components protect food items from external elements thus allowing food items to be safely stored for various periods of time. In one or more embodiments, the elevated storage device allows food items to be stored outside without any additional covering or protection.

[0086]It is contemplated that a plurality of elevated storage devices may be used to store large quantities of food items. The elevated storage devices may be organized, such as in one or more rows or columns, to allow for convenient access to the food items. This allows the elevated storage devices to provide mobile protected storage to a large quantity of food items. In this manner, a plurality of elevated storage devices may be used instead of more expensive storage apparatuses. For example, a plurality of elevated storage devices may be used instead of a warehouse building or the like. The elevated storage devices may thus provide the benefit of reduced cost. This is especially so when considering that the elevated storage devices may be parked of left outdoors in any lot or area. The elevated storage devices may also be connected to one or more stationary objects by their hitches to prevent them from moving or being moved while storing food items.

[0087]When needed, food items may be removed from the elevated storage devices, such as by removing or opening their protective covers. Alternatively, the elevated storage devices may be disconnected from any stationary object they may be hitched to and moved to a delivery location where the food items are desired. Once at the desired location the food items may be removed from the elevated storage devices.

[0088]It can thus be seen that the elevated storage devices also provide the benefit of allowing food items to be quickly moved to other locations. In most cases, the elevated storage device need only be connected to a vehicle, animal, person, or other mechanism and the pulled, pushed, or otherwise moved to the desired location.

[0089]Referring to FIG. 1, the elevated storage device may be used to store and transport food items in various ways. In one embodiment, the protective cover 112 may be opened such as by releasing one or more fasteners. In FIG. 1, for example, a hook and loop fastener 120 may be released to open the protective cover. Once open, one or more food items may be placed inside the protective cover 112. The food items will typically have to be lifted or otherwise moved to the elevated position of the protective cover 112 to allow them to be placed inside the protective cover. As can be seen from FIG. 5A, food items may be placed on a bottom portion 504 of the protective cover 112 which may be supported or reinforced by the base 104 of the elevated storage device.

[0090]Once the desired food items have been placed, the protective cover 112 may be closed such as shown in FIG. 5B. In one or more embodiments, closing the protective cover 112 includes closing or reconnecting one or more fasteners. For example, the fasteners 512 of FIG. 5B or the hook and loop fastener 120 of FIG. 1 may be reconnected to close the protective cover 112. The elevated storage device may then be left in position or may be moved to deliver the food items. In any case, the elevated storage device protects the food items during storage and transport. When desired, the protective cover 112 may be opened, such as described above, and the food items removed.

[0091]It is contemplated that the elevated storage device may be used to load and unload food items to and from other vehicles. For example, one or more elevated storage devices may be moved to a train, plane, boat, truck, or other vehicle and the food items in the elevated storage devices may be transferred to these vehicles for further transport. In addition, food items may be transferred from these vehicles to one or more elevated storage devices for safe storage. The elevated storage devices may then be moved to an individual's or entity's property or other location if desired while the food items remain protected in the elevated storage device.

[0092]While various embodiments of the invention have been described, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of this invention. In addition, the various features, elements, and embodiments described herein may be claimed or combined in any combination or arrangement.

Claims

1. An elevated storage device comprising:a base comprising a rigid frame;a closed compartment attached to the base, the closed compartment comprising:a triangular skeleton; anda protective cover around the triangular skeleton, the protective cover comprising one or more layers of material;one or more axles attached to the base;one or more wheels attached to the one or more axles; andat least one hitch attached to the base.

2. The elevated storage device of claim 1, wherein the protective cover comprises an inner and outer layer, the inner layer being a flexible layer and the outer layer being a rigid mesh layer.

3. The elevated storage device of claim 1, wherein the protective cover comprises an inner and outer layer, the inner layer being a fabric layer and the outer layer being a wire mesh layer.

4. The elevated storage device of claim 1, wherein the protective cover comprises at least one insulating layer.

5. The elevated storage device of claim 1, wherein the protective cover comprises an opening to allow access to the closed compartment for loading and unloading food items.

6. An elevated storage device comprising:a skeleton;a protective cover around the skeleton, the protective cover comprising one or more layers of material;a base configured to support the skeleton and the protective cover whereby at least a portion of the protective cover is between the skeleton and the base;one or more axles attached to the base;one or more wheels attached to the one or more axles; andat least one hitch attached to the base.

7. The elevated storage device of claim 6, wherein the skeleton is triangular in shape.

8. The elevated storage device of claim 6, wherein the skeleton is semicircular in shape.

9. The elevated storage device of claim 6, wherein the protective cover has an opening to allow one or more food items to be placed on the base of the elevated storage device.

10. The elevated storage device of claim 6, wherein the protective cover comprises a fabric layer and a rigid mesh layer.

11. The elevated storage device of claim 6, wherein the protective cover comprises a waterproof layer and a rigid mesh layer.

12. The elevated storage device of claim 6, wherein the protective cover comprises an insulating layer and a rigid mesh layer.

13. The elevated storage device of claim 6, wherein the protective cover comprises an outermost layer, the outermost layer being a wire mesh layer.

14. The elevated storage device of claim 6 further comprising:one or more guides comprising one or more channels, the one or more guides attached below the base; anda conveyer system comprising a plurality of rollers and a conveyer belt, the conveyer system retained in the one or more channels of the one or more guides.

15. A method for storing and transporting food items comprising:providing access to an interior portion of a protective cover by opening one or more layers of the protective cover, the protective cover attached on a base of an elevated storage device;moving one or more food items to an elevated position corresponding to the base of the elevated storage device;placing one or more food items within the interior portion of the protective cover whereby the one or more food items are placed on top of at least a portion of the protective cover and the base; andclosing the one or more layers of the protective cover such that the one or more food items are surrounded by the protective cover.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein opening the one or more layers of the protective cover comprises opening a rigid mesh layer of the protective cover and a flexible layer of the protective cover.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein opening the one or more layers of the protective cover comprises opening a wire mesh layer of the protective cover and a fabric layer of the protective cover.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein opening the one or more layers of the protective cover comprises opening an insulating layer of the protective cover.

19. The method of claim 15 further comprising:attaching a hitch of the elevated storage device to a vehicle;moving the elevated storage device to a delivery location with the vehicle;opening one or more layers of the protective cover to access the one or more food items; andremoving the one or more food items.

20. The method of claim 15 further comprising:removing the protective cover from a supporting skeleton;inserting the skeleton into a new protective cover comprising at least one distinct layer whereby the at least one distinct layer is different from one or more of the one or more layers of the protective cover; andattaching the new protective cover to the base of the elevated storage device.

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