Collapsible container for holding foodstuffs, and methods of using same

Abstract

A collapsible, disposable food container includes a main body which is selectively adjustable between an operative, open position and a collapsed, flat position thereof. The container is constructed from a unitary piece of flat stock material folded to define front, back, side, and bottom walls. The container includes a main body having a bottom portion which is shaped substantially as a truncated cone, when the container is in its operative position, such that the bottom portion may be inserted in and stably engage the walls of a circular opening, such as a vehicle cup holder. Most preferably, the lower portion of the main body fits within a circular area 2.75 inches in diameter. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each side wall includes an indentable gripping brace region, intermediate of upper and lower portions of the side wall, which can be flexed inwardly of the upper and lower portions of the side wall, when inwardly directed pressure is applied thereto. It is preferable that the indentable gripping brace regions be substantially football shaped. In an optional embodiment of the invention, the container further includes a secondary, body integrally formed with the main body, for holding auxiliary foodstuffs such as condiments. Where used, the secondary body defines a pocket connected to one of the front, back or side walls of the main body.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.