US20080272252A1

US20080272252A1 - Stackable, modular and decorative bowl assembly

Info

Publication number: US20080272252A1
Application number: US11/799,755
Authority: US
Inventors: Joseph Conde
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2007-05-02
Filing date: 2007-05-02
Publication date: 2008-11-06

Abstract

A stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly. More particularly, the present invention is a tower or vertical pole which houses cylindrical containers of various sizes, shapes, and colors. In one mode of production, the bowl assembly is a floor-to-ceiling arrangement, while in an alternate embodiment, the bowl assembly is a countertop-to-ceiling arrangement. In either instance, several plastic bowls are attached to the vertical support, with the pole running through the center of the bowls, in the preferred mode. As such, each bowl may hold numerous small items to conserve space, or may hold decorative items such as plants and flowers. In total, the assembly forms an aesthetically pleasing and space-conscious display for many areas, including the home or office.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is a stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly. More particularly, the present invention is a floor to ceiling tower or vertical pole which houses cylindrical containers of various sizes, shapes, and colors. Specifically, several plastic bowls are attached to the vertical support, with the pole running through the center of the bowls, in the preferred mode. As such, each bowl may hold numerous small items to conserve space, or may hold decorative items such as plants and flowers. In total, the assembly forms an aesthetically pleasing and space-conscious display for the home or office.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Numerous innovations for container assemblies have been provided in the prior art that are described as follows. Even though these innovations may be suitable for the specific individual purposes to which they address, they differ from the present invention as hereinafter contrasted. The following is a summary of those prior art patents most relevant to the invention at hand, as well a description outlining the differences between the present invention and the prior art.
1. U.S. Pat. No. 5,715,954, invented by Zaremba, entitled “Removable Display Attachment For Vertical Rigid Cylindrical Supports”
In the patent to Zaremba, a spatially and mechanically independent donut bowl structure is provided. The preferred embodiment consists of a flat member surrounded by an upwardly rising rim and an upwardly protruding open tubular segment on the upper surface. The opening completely pierces the donut bowl, so that a pole or pipe can easily slide through the invention. The donut support can be used by itself as a small dish. It can also be used interchangeably as a versatile, lightweight, and inexpensive container or tray component to any variety of decorative displays using poles, pipes, or pedestals.
2. U.S. Pat. No. 5,458,243, invented by McBride, entitled “Multiple Stack-Tray Assembly”
In the patent to McBride, an adjustable assembly of multiple stack-trays is provided with a vertical support member, a multiplicity of stack-tray elements, and a multiplicity of split-collar elements which each frictionally and slidably engage the exterior surface of the support member and which each adjustable engage and support a respective one of said stack-tray elements.
3. U.S. Pat. No. 4,688,684, invented by Young et al., entitled “Vertical Display System”
In the patent to Young, a free-standing vertical display system for displaying merchandise, such as beverage containers, at the point of purchase, is described. The system includes a base and one or more trays which are slidably received on a center pole. In a first embodiment a merchandise-bearing tray rests on the merchandise on the tray beneath it. When the tray is empty, it may be stored on four screws protruding from the top of the center pole, allowing the customer to access the lower trays. A second embodiment of the invention provides a spring on the center pole, underneath each tray. When a tray is loaded with merchandise, the spring compresses and the tray rests on the merchandise on the tray beneath it. When a tray is emptied, the spring pushes the tray up, so that merchandise may be removed from the tray below. A third embodiment of the invention provides stationary spacer poles at the periphery of each tray to separate the trays, so that merchandise may be accessed from all trays simultaneously. All three embodiments of the invention can be provided with a cylindrical header positioned on top of the center pole and carrying product identification labels or other advertisements.
4. U.S. Pat. No. 4,561,208, invented by Schultz, entitled “Modular Planter System”
In the patent to Schultz, provided is a modular planter system for forming an variety of horizontal, vertical and spatial arrangements. The system includes three or more pot housings each capable of receiving a plant pot. One or more connecting members are attached to each of the pot housings at a plurality of radially spaced-apart locations. The connecting members mate together vertically in order to permit the interconnection of the pot housings in various angular orientations. The pot housings have hollow interiors to permit them to be filled with water and provide water to plants by means of a wick. At least one of the pot housings may alternatively be adapted to receive a light fixture to provide the planter system a source of artificial light. The system is supported by a variety of external support means including a floor support base, an adjustable length pole and a ceiling-mounted chain.
5. U.S. Pat. No. 4,546,730, invented by Holland, entitled “Tangle-Free Pet Hitch and Feeding Station”
In the patent to Holland, a circular dog-run and feeding station is provided with a shade so that the animal is free to exercise within a complete circle. There is a feeding bowl provided with a vertical bearing receiving an elongated stake that is driven into the ground where the bowl stabilizes the stake. An elongated pole is pivotally mounted to the stake above the bowl and a free end of the pole engages the ground. This free end of the pole is fitted with a flexible leash that is no longer in length than the pivoted pole. The free end of the leash is attached to the collar of the dog. An umbrella is mounted at the lower end of its vertical shaft to the upper end of the stake.
6. U.S. Pat. No. 5,312,003, invented by Domenig, entitled “Lazy Susan System”
The patent to Domenig describes an adjustable and alignable lazy susan system wherein the interior components are slidably mounted on and supported by a vertical tube and can be locked in the installed position or collapsed upon themselves at one end of the shaft and secured in that arrangement to avoid damage and misalignment during shipment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

As noted, the present invention is a stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly. More particularly, the present invention is a floor to ceiling tower or vertical pole which houses cylindrical containers of various sizes, shapes, and colors. Specifically, several plastic bowls are attached to the vertical support, with the pole running through the center of the bowls, in the preferred mode. As such, each bowl may hold numerous small items to conserve space, or may hold decorative items such as plants and flowers. In total, the assembly forms an aesthetically pleasing and space-conscious display for the home or office.
In light of the foregoing, it is generally an object of the present invention to provide a product that conserves space in a residential, commercial, or industrial setting.
It is an additional object of the invention to provide a product that may be used in any room of a home or office.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a product that may include a varying quantity of bowls, as desired by the user.
It is an additional object of the invention to provide a product that may include bowls of varying size and diameter, as desired by the user.
It is an additional object of the invention to provide a product of a variable height, so as to accommodate rooms of all types.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a product that is decorative in nature, offering an aesthetically-pleasing experience.
It is also an object of the invention to provide a product that is inexpensive to manufacture, produce, and distribute.
It is a further object of the invention to provide an item that may be constructed of a variety of previously-existing materials that are cost-effective and convenient for the purposes of manufacture.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a product that may bear a variety of text, graphics, or indicia thereon.
It is an additional object of the invention to provide an item that may be produced in a variety of sizes, including floor-to-ceiling or countertop-to-ceiling.
Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide an item that is durable and that maintains its effectiveness for extended periods of time.
The novel features which are considered characteristic for the invention are set forth in the claims. The invention itself, both as to its construction and its method of operation, together with additional objects and advantages thereof, will be best understood from the following description of the embodiments when read and understood in connection with accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of the stackable, modular and decorative bowl assembly, illustrating usage of lower base, upper base, two bowl members, and plurality of poles for the purposes of example only.

FIG. 2A is a three-quarter perspective view of the lower base member.

FIG. 2B is a plan view of the lower base member.

FIG. 2C is a side view of the lower base member.

FIG. 2D is a bottom view of the lower base member.

FIG. 3A is a three-quarter perspective view of a bowl member.

FIG. 3B is an upper view of a bowl member.

FIG. 3C is a side cutaway view of a bowl member.

FIG. 3D is a side view of a bowl member.

FIG. 4A is a three-quarter perspective view of the lower base member and first connection pole member.

FIG. 4B is a three-quarter exploded view of a bowl member with upper and lower connection poles, and fastening means therefor.

FIG. 4C is a three-quarter exploded view of the upper base member, connection pole, main support pole, and fastening means therefor.

FIG. 4D is a three-quarter exploded view of a bowl member with upper connection poles and fastening means therefore, and with lower plate member.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring to: FIG. 1, which is a front perspective view of the stackable, modular and decorative floor to ceiling bowl assembly, illustrating usage of lower base, upper base, two bowl members, and plurality of poles for the purposes of example only:
In the preferred mode, the stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly (10) first comprises a lower base member (12) which comprises a generally flat bottom placed against a flat surface.
More specifically, FIG. 2A is a three-quarter perspective view of the lower base member, FIG. 2B is a plan view of the lower base member, FIG. 2C is a side view of the lower base member, and FIG. 2D is a bottom view of the lower base member. As shown, in the preferred mode, the base member (12) is generally round and comprises multiple layers. A widest layer is at the bottom most portion, a layer of lesser diameter is above the bottom layer, and a layer of a still lesser diameter appears thereabove.
The lower base member (12) further comprises an aperture at the center of an upper portion thereof. An elongated, generally cylindrical pole (14) is removably inserted into the aperture of the lower base member (12). The pole (14) is removably attachable to a least one additional support pole (18).
A plurality of bowl members (16) are affixed to the pole (14) via a predetermined fastening means. The bowl members (16) function to contain many articles therein. To illustrate same, FIG. 3A is a three-quarter perspective view of a bowl member, FIG. 3B is an upper view of a bowl member, FIG. 3C is a side cutaway view of a bowl member, and FIG. 3D is a side view of a bowl member.
As shown, an uppermost bowl (16) is affixed to an upper telescopically adjustable pole member (20). In the preferred mode of manufacture, the upper telescopically adjustable pole member (20) comprises a tension spring assembly.
Above the uppermost bowl member (16) and affixed to the telescopically adjustable pole member (20) is an upper base member (22). Upper base member (22) comprises a generally flat top that is placed against a ceiling surface.
To further illustrate preferred embodiments, FIG. 4A is a three-quarter perspective view of the lower base member and first connection pole member; FIG. 4B is a three-quarter exploded view of a bowl member with upper and lower connection poles, and fastening means therefor; FIG. 4C is a three-quarter exploded view of the upper base member, connection pole, main support pole, and fastening means therefor; and FIG. 4D is a three-quarter exploded view of a bowl member with upper connection poles and fastening means therefor, and with lower plate member.
In total, the assembly functions to provide a convenient means to contain, store, and display a any of a variety of articles in a space-saving manner.
In the preferred mode, the assembly is a floor-to-ceiling assembly that may be conveniently placed in any area of a room, such as in a corner. In this instance, the assembly may comprise a total of six bowl members, which adequately fill out the space between the average floor and ceiling height.
In an alternate mode of production, the assembly is a countertop-to-ceiling assembly, which may be placed in a variety of areas such as a kitchen or bathroom. In this instance, the assembly may comprise a total of three bowl members, which adequately fill the space between the average counter and ceiling height.
It should also be noted that the bowls may be colored, and may also be transparent, translucent or opaque, depending on whether it is desirable for items contained therein to be easily seen.
In addition, the entire device may bear previously determined text, graphics, designs, colors, and corporate logos thereon. Such will enhance the appearance of the assembly, allow it to match the décor of the room or area in which it is placed, and also to add advertising type information, if appropriate.
In any embodiment, the bowl members may be manufactured of a material selected from the group consisting of plastic, metal, and glass. This allows for great versatility with regard to the appearance of the assembly, its cost, its ability to match the décor of the area in which it is placed, and its desired level of strength and durability.
Moreover, in any embodiment, the assembly may generally be of a size selected from the group consisting of small, medium, and large. For the purposes of example only, the bowl members may be of a diameter in the range of 6 to 12 inches. Such will allow for significant storage of a variety of items, without creating a cumbersome assembly that may interfere with persons or other objects.
In addition, in the preferred mode of production, the poles are of a width in the range of 1 to 4 inches. Such provides sufficient structural stability without becoming cumbersome and/or heavy in nature.
Regarding the versatility of the invention, the bowl members may be utilized to contain items selected from the group consisting of fruits, vegetables, flowers, plants, packaged foods, books, papers, keys, personal belongings, and decorations.
As such, the assembly may be utilized in an area selected from the group consisting of a kitchen, bathroom, den, hallway, bedroom, living room, basement, dining room, playroom, garage, and shed.
It is important to note that the assembly may be utilized in settings selected from the group consisting of residential, industrial, and commercial. In each instance, the invention is accordingly sized and manufactured of materials suitable for its intended purposes.
Importantly, the assembly is of a variable height, which allows it to be used in many areas, regardless of the exact height of the ceiling in question. Such is due to the usage of the telescopically adjustable pole member (20), as depicted in FIG. 1.
With regards to all descriptions and graphics, while the invention has been illustrated and described as embodied, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown, since it will be understood that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation can be made by those skilled in the art without departing in any way from the spirit of the invention.
Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention. What is claimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent is set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A stackable, modular, and decorative floor to ceiling bowl assembly comprising:

a lower base member comprising a generally flat bottom placed against a flat surface, and further comprising an aperture at the center of an upper portion thereof,

an elongated, generally cylindrical pole of a width in the range of 1 to 4 inches, removably inserted into the aperture, and extending upwardly therefrom, the pole of an adjustable length;

a plurality of bowl members functioning to contain articles therein, each bowl member of a diameter in the range of 6 to 12 inches and comprising a generally round aperture at a center portion thereof in which the generally cylindrical pole is inserted, the plurality of bowl members affixed to the pole via a fastening means,

an uppermost bowl affixed to an upper telescopically adjustable pole member, which comprises a tension spring assembly,

an upper base member affixed to a distal end of the telescopically adjustable pole member, the upper base member comprising a generally flat top placed against a ceiling surface,

the assembly functioning to provide a convenient means to contain, store, and display a plurality of articles in a space-saving manner.

2. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the device bears previously determined text, graphics, designs, colors, and corporate logos thereon.

3. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the bowl members are manufactured of a material selected from the group consisting of plastic, metal, and glass.

4. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the bowl members are utilized to contain items selected from the group consisting of fruits, vegetables, flowers, plants, packaged foods, books, papers, keys, personal belongings, and decorations.

5. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the assembly is utilized in an area selected from the group consisting of a kitchen, bathroom, den, hallway, bedroom, living room, basement, dining room, playroom, garage, and shed.

6. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the assembly is utilized in settings selected from the group consisting of residential, industrial, and commercial.

7. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the bowl members comprise a plurality of apertures thereon.

8. A stackable, modular, and decorative countertop to ceiling bowl assembly comprising:

an elongated, generally cylindrical pole removably inserted into the aperture, and extending upwardly therefrom; the pole of an adjustable length;

9. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 8, wherein the device bears previously determined text, graphics, designs, colors, and corporate logos thereon.

10. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 8, wherein the bowl members are manufactured of a material selected from the group consisting of plastic, metal, and glass.

11. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 8, wherein the bowl members are utilized to contain items selected from the group consisting of fruits, vegetables, flowers, plants, packaged foods, books, papers, keys, personal belongings, and decorations.

12. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 8, wherein the assembly is utilized in an area selected from the group consisting of a kitchen, bathroom, den, hallway, bedroom, living room, basement, dining room, playroom, garage, and shed.

13. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 8, wherein the assembly is utilized in settings selected from the group consisting of residential, industrial, and commercial.

14. The stackable, modular, and decorative bowl assembly as described in claim 8, wherein the bowl members comprise a plurality of apertures thereon.