CN110536842B - Container system with locking system for hinged lids - Google Patents

Abstract

A container system suitable for containing contents such as consumer products comprises a container body (2) and a closure system comprising a hinged lid (4) and a securing member (30). The cover (4) is openable when first and second buttons (31, 32) on the securing member (30) are moved from respective first portions to respective second positions, thereby disengaging the first interlocking member from the complementary second interlocking member.

Description

Container system with locking system for hinged lids

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to container systems, latching systems, and methods related thereto.

Background

Certain consumer products, such as unit dose detergent pouches, are often sold and stored in containers with a secure closure system. The latching system is intended to prevent or inhibit unintended opening of the container. To operate such a latching system, a user may have to manipulate the latching system in a particular manner, such as by performing two separate actions simultaneously or in a particular sequence. It is challenging to design a latching system that is both secure and intuitive for use.

Many secure latching systems require the lid and/or the frame surrounding the lid to be directly manipulated and deformed, such as by pressing or pulling on a tab or latch, in order for the system to be unlatched and opened. However, upon repeated use, the cover and/or frame may suffer permanent deformation or loss of resiliency, resulting in a less secure lock and/or a greater likelihood of accidental opening.

Furthermore, latching systems that require multiple actions to operate can generally include multiple components. Such systems can be expensive and/or challenging to assemble by the manufacturer. There is a need for an effective latching system that is relatively easy to manufacture and/or assemble.

In addition, product manufacturers preferably sell their products in aesthetically pleasing packaging. However, effective closure systems are highly functional and often unsightly. It is therefore desirable to provide a secure latching system that is well integrated into a container system.

There is a need for a container system and/or a latching system that addresses one or more of the above-mentioned needs.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure relates to container systems, latching systems, and related methods.

For example, the present disclosure relates to a container system comprising: a container body including a wall defining an interior volume and an opening providing access to the interior volume; a latching system comprising a hinged cover selectively movable between a closed position covering the opening and an open position allowing access to the interior volume, wherein the hinged cover remains in the closed position when at least a first interlocking member is engaged with a complementary interlocking member; and a securing member that is non-integral with the body and non-integral with the lid, the securing member comprising a first button and a second button spaced from but engaged to the first button, each of the first and second buttons being biased to a respective first position and each being movable to a respective second position, wherein when the first and second buttons are simultaneously in their respective second positions, the lid is movable from the closed position to an open position in that at least the first interlocking member is disengaged from the complementary interlocking member. The container system can contain a consumer product, such as a home care product, in an interior volume.

The present disclosure also relates to a container system comprising: a container body including a wall defining an interior volume and an opening providing access to the interior volume; a closure system including a hinged lid selectively movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein the lid is effective to block access to the interior volume when in the closed position and is effective to allow access to the interior volume when in the open position; a locking system comprising a securing member that is non-integral with the body and non-integral with the cover, the securing member comprising a first button and a second button spaced apart from the first button, the first button and the second button each having a first position, the first button and the second button each being movable to a second position, the first button and the second button each being resiliently biased to their respective first positions, and the first button being operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first button and the second button, wherein the first interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, wherein when the first interlocking member and complementary interlocking member are engaged, the cover is retained in a closed position, and wherein when both the first button and second button are moved from respective first positions to respective second positions, the cover is movable from a closed position to an open position causing the first interlocking member to disengage from the complementary locking member.

The present disclosure also relates to a method of opening a container system, wherein the method comprises the steps of: providing a container system as described herein, moving the first button and the second button such that the buttons are simultaneously in their respective second positions, opening the hinged lid, and optionally accessing the contents stored in the interior volume.

The present disclosure also relates to a closure system suitable for attachment to an open end of a container body, the closure system comprising a lid, a frame, and a securing member; the frame configured to be attached to an open end of a container body, the frame having an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter, the inner perimeter defining a frame opening; the cover being hingedly connected to the frame, the cover being selectively movable between a closed position and an open position, the cover being effective to cover the frame opening when in the closed position and being effective to allow access through the frame opening when in the open position; the securing member being non-integral with the frame and non-integral with the cover, the securing member being connected with at least one of the frame and/or the cover, the securing member comprising a first button and a second button spaced apart from the first button, the first button and the second button each being movable from a respective first position to a respective second position, the first button and the second button each being resiliently biased to a respective first position, the first button being operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first button and the second button, wherein the first interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, wherein the cover is retained in a closed position when the first locking member and the complementary locking member are engaged, and wherein when both the first button and the second button are moved from a respective first position to a respective second position, the cover is movable from a closed position to an open position, causing the first locking member to disengage from the complementary locking member.

Drawings

The drawings herein are exemplary in nature and are not intended to be limiting.

Fig. 1 illustrates a container system according to the present disclosure, wherein the lid is in an open position.

Fig. 2 illustrates a container system according to the present disclosure, wherein the lid is in a closed position.

Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the container system of fig. 2, viewed along the line D-D.

FIG. 4 illustrates a latching system according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 5 illustrates a top view of a fixation member according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 6 illustrates a rear perspective view of a fixation member according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 7 illustrates a bottom perspective view of a fixation member according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 8 illustrates a rear top perspective view of a frame according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 9 illustrates a front bottom perspective view of a frame according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 10 shows a close-up view of part C of fig. 1, which is a spring system, and its surrounding area.

Fig. 11 shows a view of substantially the same parts as shown in fig. 10, when viewed from the rear of the container.

Fig. 12 shows a close-up view of part a of fig. 1, which is a complementary interlocking member of the lid.

Fig. 13 shows a close-up view of cross-section portion E of fig. 3 with the interlocking members of the securing system engaged with the complementary interlocking system of the cover.

Fig. 14 shows a schematic top view of the interaction of the securing member, its interlocking member and the complementary interlocking member on the cover when the first and second push buttons are in the first position.

Fig. 15 shows a schematic view similar to fig. 14, but with the first and second buttons in their respective second positions.

Fig. 16 shows a close-up view of part B of fig. 1, which is a biasing system.

Fig. 17 illustrates a representative elastic member according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 18 shows the configuration of the biasing system.

Fig. 19 shows the configuration of the biasing system.

Fig. 20 shows the configuration of the biasing system.

Fig. 21 shows the configuration of the biasing system.

Fig. 22 shows a cross-section of the biasing system at section F of fig. 3.

Fig. 23 shows a cross-section of an alternative biasing system, as located at section F of fig. 3.

Fig. 24 illustrates a container system according to the present disclosure that includes a tamper evident feature.

Fig. 25 illustrates a container system according to the present disclosure in which a securing member is secured to a container body.

Fig. 26 illustrates a container system according to the present disclosure in which a securing member is secured to a lid.

Fig. 27 illustrates a container system according to the present disclosure in which a securing member is secured to a lid.

Fig. 28 illustrates a container system according to the present disclosure in which a securing member is secured to a lid in an alternative configuration.

Fig. 29 shows a unit dose article according to the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure relates to container systems, latching systems, and related methods. More specifically, the latching system of the present disclosure may include at least two buttons that must be operated, for example, by sliding them toward each other in order to open the latching system. Both buttons can be manipulated by a single adult hand, providing convenient and intuitive operability. The latching system may also be configured such that if only one button is operated and/or if the buttons are not operated simultaneously, the latching system will remain securely closed.

The two buttons may be part of a single, preferably monolithic, securing member which may be connected to the rest of the latching system, and may even further comprise a spring system. When the securing member is a single piece having at least two buttons (and optionally a spring system), the latching system can be more conveniently assembled than a system having separate, separate buttons.

Further, it may be advantageous to have actuatable fixation members that are distinct from the body, cover, and/or frame. When the securing member is a separate, separate piece (which is part of a directly handled container system), it can reduce wear and tear on the body, lid, and/or frame so that they do not deform, weaken, or otherwise become more easily unset during repeated use.

The container system, latching system, and related methods of the present disclosure are described in more detail below.

As used herein, the articles "a" and "an" when used in a claim are understood to mean one or more of what is claimed or described. As used herein, the terms "include," "comprises," and "comprising" are intended to be non-limiting. The compositions of the present disclosure may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of the components of the present disclosure.

The term "substantially free" may be used herein. This means that the referenced material is very small, is not intentionally added to the composition to form part of the composition, or preferably the referenced material is not present at analytically detected levels. This is meant to include compositions in which the material referred to is present only as an impurity in one of the other materials intentionally added. The referenced materials, if any, may be present at a level of less than 1%, or less than 0.1%, or less than 0.01%, or even 0%, by weight of the composition.

As used herein, the term "fabric care composition" includes compositions and formulations designed to treat fabric. Such compositions include, but are not limited to, laundry cleaning compositions and detergents, fabric softening compositions, fabric enhancing compositions, fabric freshening compositions, laundry pre-washes, laundry pre-treatments, laundry additives, spray-on products, dry washes or compositions, laundry rinse additives, wash additives, post-rinse fabric treatments, ironing aids, unit dose formulations, delayed delivery formulations, detergents contained on or in a porous substrate or nonwoven sheet, and other suitable forms apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the teachings herein. Such compositions may be used as laundry pre-treatment agents, laundry post-treatment agents, or may be added during the rinse cycle or wash cycle of a laundry washing operation.

Unless otherwise indicated, all component or composition levels are in terms of the active portion of the component or composition and are exclusive of impurities, e.g., residual solvents or by-products, which may be present in commercially available sources of such components or compositions.

All temperatures herein are in degrees Celsius (. degree. C.) unless otherwise indicated. All measurements herein are made at 20 ℃ and atmospheric pressure unless otherwise indicated.

In all embodiments of the present disclosure, all percentages are by weight of the total composition, unless specifically stated otherwise. All ratios are weight ratios unless otherwise specifically noted.

It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitation given throughout this specification includes every lower numerical limitation, as if such lower numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout this specification will include every higher numerical limitation, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout this specification will include every narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.

Container system

The present disclosure relates to container systems. Fig. 1 shows an illustrative container system 1 according to the present disclosure. The container system 1 comprises a container body 2 and a latching system 3.

The container body 2 may be made of a rigid material and/or in the form of a basin; rigid materials may allow for some degree of deformation or deflection. The container body 2 may be made of a flexible material and/or be in the form of a bag. Any suitable polyolefin and/or polyester may be utilized. The body 2, the latching system 3, both or portions thereof may be formed, in part or in whole, from a moldable thermoplastic material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene (PE), Polystyrene (PS), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), polyester, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate or an elastomer, or blends of these materials. The container body 2 and/or the closure system 3 may comprise a laminate material; for example, the flexible bag body may comprise a multi-layer material comprising layers of PET and PE. The container system 1, or portions thereof, may be formed partially or completely of clear, transparent, translucent, or opaque material. The material used to form the container system may have one or more colors.

The container body 2 may be of any suitable shape, for example a generally rectangular prism or cylinder. The container body 2 may comprise a wall.

The container body may comprise a front wall 10, a rear wall 11, side walls 12,13, and a bottom wall 14. The front, rear and side walls 10,11,12,13 may be joined at the proximal end to the bottom wall 14 to form a closed end of the container body 2. The container body 2 may include an open end, which may be opposite a closed end. The side walls 12,13 may contact the front and rear walls 10,11 at corners 15.

The container body 2 may be oriented in the X, Y and Z axes. The bottom wall 14 may be substantially parallel to a plane formed by the X-axis and the Z-axis. The front and rear walls 10,11 may be substantially parallel to a plane formed by the X and Y axes. The sidewalls 12,13 may be substantially parallel to a plane formed by the Y-axis and the Z-axis. The container body 2 and/or the container system 1 may be characterized by: a width measured along the X-axis; height measured along the Y-axis; and/or depth measured along the Z-axis.

At least some of the walls 10,11,12,13,14 may be flat. At least some may not be flat. At least some of the walls 10,11,12,13,14 may be curved. At least some of the walls 10,11,12,13,14 may be convex. At least some of the walls 10,11,12,13,14 may be concave. The front, rear and side walls 10,11,12,13 may form a generally square, rectangular, oval or octagonal cross-sectional shape.

The front, rear and/or side walls 10,11,12,13 may extend upwardly away from the bottom wall 14. The front, rear and/or side walls 10,11,12,13 may be substantially orthogonal to the bottom wall 14. The front, rear and/or side walls 10,11,12,13 may project outwardly from a central axis 21 of the container body 2.

The walls 10,11,12,13,14 may define an interior volume 17 of the container body. The interior volume 17 may be selected to adequately contain the desired contents. The internal volume 17 may have a volume of at least about 0.5L, or at least about 1L, or at least about 2L, or at least about 3L, or at least about 4L, or at least about 5L, or at least about 6L. The internal volume 17 may have a volume of no more than about 100L, or no more than about 50L, or no more than about 10L, or no more than about 8L, or no more than about 6L, or no more than about 5L, or no more than about 4L, or no more than about 2L, or no more than about 1L. The internal volume 17 may have a volume of about 0.5L to about 5L.

The walls 10,11,12,13 may define an opening 16 that provides access to an interior volume 17. The opening 16 may be opposite the bottom wall 14 and/or closed end of the container body 2. The opening 17 may be defined by the distal ends of the front, rear and/or side walls 10,11,12, 13.

As shown in fig. 1, the latching system 3 may include a hinged cover 4. The hinged lid 4 may have an open position as shown in fig. 1 and a closed position as shown in fig. 2. The lid 4 may effectively block access to the interior volume 17 when the lid 4 is in the closed position. The lid 4 may be effective to allow access to the interior volume when the lid 4 is in the open position. The hinge cover 4 is selectively movable between a closed position and an open position. Hinged lid 4 may be advantageous over a removable lid in that a hinged lid cannot be removed and subsequently misplaced, which is particularly relevant when the contents of container system 1 are, for example, water sensitive and/or contain household chemicals that should be safely stored.

The lid 4 is rotatably movable between a closed position and an open position. The lid 4 is rotatable about a hinge axis 36. The hinge axis 36 may be substantially parallel to the X-axis. The predetermined angle may be formed by the position when the cover 4 is in the closed position and the position when the cover 4 is in the open position. The predetermined angle may be about 90 ° to about 270 °, preferably about 90 ° to about 180 °, more preferably about 110 ° to about 150 °, or about 110 ° to about 135 °. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that when lid 4 is at such an angle in the open position, it may provide a visual cue to remind the user to reclose lid 4 after use. Furthermore, when lid 4 is opened to a predetermined angle greater than 90 °, the pot may occupy a larger 2-D footprint, making it more difficult for the user to put it away for storage, which may also serve as a cue to the user to reclose the lid. Such cues may be particularly useful when the contents held within the container system are sensitive to, for example, water, light, dirt, and the like. Such locations may also be used to display information to the user, such as branding, instructions, or security information, located on the inner surface of the lid 4.

The latching system 3 may also comprise a frame 5. The frame 5 may be connected to the container body 2 and the cover 4. The frame 5 may be hingedly connected with the cover 4.

The container system may include a locking system. The locking system may comprise at least one securing member 30. The securing member 30 may be one-piece and/or monolithic in nature. The securing member 30 may include multiple pieces (e.g., buttons and springs) that may engage one another. The securing member 30 may not be integral with the container body 2, the lid 4 and/or the frame 5. The securing member 30 may be separate from but connected to the container body 2, lid 4 and/or frame 5. As constructed in the container system 1 of fig. 1, the securing member 30 is connected to the frame 5, but is not integral with the frame 5.

The securing member 30 or components thereof may have a color that contrasts with surrounding portions of the container system 1 (e.g., the frame 5 and/or the lid 4). The color contrast may attract the visual attention of the user and indicate the area of the container system 1 that needs to be operated in order to open the system.

The fixing member 30 may include a first button 31 and a second button 32 spaced apart from the first button 31. The first and second buttons 31,32 each have a first position. The first and second buttons 31,32 are each movable to a second position. The first and second buttons 31,32 are each resiliently biased to their respective first positions. The spring system 33 may resiliently bias the first and second buttons 31,32 to their respective first positions.

The first button 31 may be operatively connected to the first interlocking member 50. The first interlocking member 50 may be an integral part of the fixing member 30. The first locking member 50 may be located substantially between the first and second buttons 31, 32. The first interlocking member 50 is selectively engageable with the complementary locking member 52. The complementary locking member 52 may be located on the lid 4. When the first locking member 50 and the complementary locking member 52 are engaged, the lid 4 may be held in the closed position. When both the first and second push buttons 31,32 are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, the lid 4 can be moved from the closed position to the open position, which causes the first and complementary locking members 50, 52 to disengage.

Fig. 2 shows an exemplary container system 1 with the lid 4 of the latching system 3 in a closed position. The lid 4 may have a top surface 34. The frame 5 may have an upper surface 35. When lid 4 is in the closed position, upper surface 35 of frame 5 may be substantially coplanar with top surface 34 of lid 4, thereby providing a relatively smooth surface that may facilitate stacking container systems.

The container system 1 may include a hinge 36 about which the lid 4 may hingedly rotate between an open position and a closed position. The hinge 36 may be a living hinge, or it may include a pin. The hinge 36 may be in the form of one or more portions (e.g., two portions).

As shown in fig. 1, securing member 30 may be substantially visible when lid 4 is in the open position. The lid 4 may include a lip 37 that substantially covers at least a portion of the securing member 30 when the lid 4 is in the closed position, as shown in fig. 2 and 3. Covering at least a portion of the fixation member 30 may minimize damage or loosening of the fixation member 30, which may be caused by various effects that may be encountered during the filling, sealing, storage, and/or transfer processes. Covering at least a portion of the securing member 30 may also improve the aesthetics of the container system 1 when the lid 4 is in the closed position, such as when displayed for sale on a store shelf. The lip 37 may be configured to extend outwardly (away from the central axis 21) and/or downwardly (toward the plane of the bottom wall 14). The lip 37 may be substantially curved and/or convex. The lip 37 may cover at least 50% or at least 60% of the length of the fixation member 30, where the length is measured from one end 80 to the opposite end 81.

When the lid 4 is in the closed position, the container system 1 may be relatively airtight and/or watertight, which may be particularly advantageous when the container system 1 contains water-sensitive contents. The container system 1 may include features that contribute to the airtight and/or watertight properties, such as sealing flanges and/or compressible surfaces that interact to form a tight seal. The container system 1 may include a plug seal, a gasket seal, or a combination thereof. The container system 1 may comprise a moisture absorbing material, such as a desiccant. The container system 1 may have an MVTR (moisture vapor transmission Rate) measurement of less than about 2.0 grams per day per square meter of packaging surface (g/day/m 2), or less than about 1.0 g/day/m 2, or less than about 0.75 g/day/m 2, or less than about 0.50 g/day/m 2, or less than about 0.25 g/day/m 2 at 35 ℃ and 65% relative humidity when the lid 4 is in the closed position. MVTR was determined according to ASTM D7709.

Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the container system 1, viewed along the line D-D in fig. 2, with the lid 4 in the closed position. As shown in fig. 3, the walls 10,11,12 (not shown), 13 (not shown), 14 of the container body 2 define an interior volume 17. The bottom wall 14 may have a concave portion 38 extending toward the interior volume 17 of the container body 2. The concave portion 38 may add stability to the container body 2, may facilitate stable nesting with other container bodies, and/or result in minimal contact between the bottom wall 14 of the container system 1 and an upper portion of another container system when stacked.

The present disclosure also relates to a latching system 3. The latching system 3 may include a cover 4, a frame 5, and a securing member 30. The latching system 3 of the present disclosure may be connected to a container body to form a container system 1. The closure system 3 may be independent of the container system 1 and/or the container body. It may be advantageous to manufacture, transport and/or store the closure system 3 independently of the container body. In addition, various shapes or volumes of container bodies may be sized and configured to fit a single latching system 3, resulting in manufacturing simplicity and flexibility.

FIG. 4 shows a front top perspective view of the latching system 3 according to the present disclosure. As shown, the latching system 3 includes a cover 4, a frame 5, and a securing member 30. The cover 4 may be hingedly connected to the frame 5. The cover 4 is shown in an open position, but is movable about the hinge 36 to a closed position to cover the opening 139 of the frame 5. The frame 5 is configured to be connectable to the container body 2, and the opening of the frame 5 is positioned to align with the opening 16 of the container body 2 to allow access to the interior volume of the container body 2 when so connected.

The fixing member 30 may be connected with the frame 5. The fixing member 30 includes a first button 31 and a second button 32. The spring system 33 biases the first and second buttons 31,32 to the first position. The fixation member 30 may comprise a spring system 33. Interlocking members 50,51 (e.g., latches) on the securing member 30 may engage with complementary interlocking members 52,53 (e.g., snaps) on the lid 4 to hold the lid 4 in the closed position.

The securing member 30 may be configured such that the push buttons 31,32, preferably the push buttons 31,32 and the interlocking members 50,51, are located substantially on the same axis (here, the X-axis) and/or the same plane (e.g., the X-Y plane). The fixing member 30 may be configured in a substantially arc shape. The securing member 30 may be configured such that the buttons 31,32, preferably the buttons 31,32 and the interlocking members 50,51 are located on substantially the same surface or face of the container system 1. The securing member 30 may be configured such that the buttons 31,32, preferably the buttons 31,32 and the interlocking members 50,51 are both adjacent to the same surface of the latching system 3 (e.g., the front wall 40 of the frame) and/or the container system 1 (e.g., the front wall 10 of the container). The securing member 30 may be configured such that the push buttons 31,32, preferably the push buttons 31,32 and the interlocking members 50,51 are substantially in the same plane as the walls 10,11,12,13, preferably the front wall 10 of the container body 2. For example, in the latching system 3 of fig. 4, the securing member 30 is configured such that the buttons 31,32 and the interlocking members 50,51 will be substantially in the same plane as the front wall 10 of the container body 2; see also fig. 1 and 2. The fixation member 30 may have an aspect ratio of at least 5:1, preferably at least 7:1, more preferably at least 10:1, with the longer length measured from the first end 61 to the second end 62 of the fixation member 30.

The latching system 3 may include a biasing system 60. Biasing system 60 may bias lid 4 toward the open position. The biasing system 60 may include a resilient member 61 that deforms when the lid 4 is in the closed position and urges the lid 4 toward the open position when the interlocking locking members 50,51 and the complementary interlocking members 52,53 are disengaged.

For example, the present disclosure relates to a closure system 3 suitable for attachment to an open end of a container body 2, said closure system 3 comprising a lid 4, a frame 5 and a securing member 30, the frame 5 being configured to be attached to the open end of the container body 2, the frame 5 having an outer periphery 140 and an inner periphery 150, said inner periphery 150 defining a frame opening 139; a cover 4 is hingedly connected to the frame 5, the cover 4 being selectively movable between a closed position and an open position, the cover 4 being effective to cover the frame opening 139 when in the closed position and effective to allow access through the frame opening 139 when in the open position; a securing member 30 is non-integral with the frame 5 and non-integral with the lid 4, the securing member 30 being connected with at least one of the frame 5 and/or lid 4, the securing member 30 comprising a first button 31 and a second button 32 spaced from the first button 31, the first and second buttons 31,32 each being movable from a respective first position to a respective second position, the first and second buttons 31,32 each being resiliently biased to a respective first position, the first button 31 being operatively connected to a first interlocking member 50 located substantially between the first and second buttons 31,32, wherein the first interlocking member 50 is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member 52, wherein the lid 4 is retained in a closed position when the first and complementary locking members 50, 52 are engaged, and wherein the lid 4 is movable from a closed position to an open position when the first and second buttons 31,32 are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, thereby causing the first locking member 50 to disengage from the complementary locking member 52. The second button 32 is operatively connected to a second interlocking member 51 located substantially between the first and second buttons 31,32, wherein the second interlocking member 51 is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member 53, preferably a second complementary locking member. The securing member 30 may be connected to the frame 5 and the complementary locking members 52,53 located on the cover 4.

The components of the latching system 3 according to the present disclosure, including the securing member 30, the frame 5 and the cover 4, will be discussed in more detail below.

Fig. 5 shows a top view and fig. 6 shows a rear perspective view of an exemplary fixation member 30. The securing member 30 may be a single piece. The securing member may be monolithic in nature.

The fixing member 30 includes a first button 31 and a second button 32. The second button 32 is spaced apart from the first button 31. The first button 31 may be located at or near the first end 80 of the stationary member 30. The second button 32 may be located at or near a second end 81 of the fixation member 30, where the second end 81 is opposite the first end 80. The first button 31 may be directly or indirectly connected or joined to the second button 32. The first and second buttons 31,32 may be parts of the same molded assembly.

The buttons 31,32 are sized and configured to be operable by an adult's fingers, preferably by a finger on one hand. The buttons 31,32 may be configured to conveniently receive a finger and may include one or more surfaces against which a force may be applied during operation of the fixation member 30.

For example, the buttons 31,32 may include bottom walls 82,83, which may be substantially in the X-Z plane. The buttons 31,32 may include first vertical walls 84,85 extending from the bottom walls 82, 83; the first vertical walls 84,85 may lie substantially in the X-Y plane. The buttons 31,32 may include second vertical walls 86,87 extending from the bottom walls 82, 83; the second vertical walls 86,87 may lie substantially in the Y-Z plane. The bottom walls 81,82, the first vertical walls 84,85, and/or the second vertical walls 86,87 may be substantially orthogonal to each other. The walls 81,82,83,84,85,86,87 of the buttons 31,32 may be flat or they may be contoured to fit the finger. The buttons 31,32 may have surface irregularities 125 to provide an improved gripping surface. One or more of the walls 81,82,83,84,85,86,87 of the buttons 31,32 may have an outer edge 88. It is desirable for the outer edge 88 to be generally rounded because sharp corners may puncture the user, risk puncturing the unit dose article, and/or be less aesthetically pleasing.

The first button 31 may be spaced a distance 89 from the second button 32. Distance 89 may be selected to accommodate the maximum functional hand span of an average adult hand. Distance 89 may be adjusted according to the target population of container system users; for example, women tend to have a smaller maximum functional hand span than men. The distance 89 between the buttons 31,32 is measured as the minimum distance between the locations on the buttons where the user places his fingers on in order to operate the fixation member 30. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the distance 89 between the buttons is measured from the second vertical wall 86 of the first button 31 to the second vertical wall 87 of the second button 32. The distance 89 between the buttons 31,32 may be about 50mm, or about 70mm, or about 90mm, or about 105mm, or about 110mm, to about 150mm, or to about 130mm, or to about 120 mm.

The buttons 31,32 may include indicia 90. The indicia 90 may be integrally molded with, printed on, and/or attached to the button (such as by a label or sticker). The indicia 90 may include text, graphics, or a combination thereof. Indicia 90 may provide a security indication, an instructional indication, a brand or brand name, or a combination thereof. The instructions may indicate how to open the container system 1, for example where the arrow indicates the direction of depressing the button. Other portions of the latching system 3 (e.g., the lid 4 or the container body) may include any of the above-described indicia 90.

The first push button 31 is operatively connected to the first interlocking member 50. The first interlocking member 50 may be located substantially between the first and second buttons 31, 32. In fig. 5 and 6, the first interlocking member 50 is a first latch having an inner edge 91 and an outer edge 92, the outer edge 92 being proximal to the first button 31, and the inner edge 91 being distal to the first button 31.

The second button 32 is operatively connected to the second interlocking member 51. The second interlocking member 51 is located substantially between the first and second buttons 31, 32. In fig. 5 and 6, second coupling member 51 is a second latch having an inner edge 93 and an outer edge 94.

The first interlocking member 50 may be located between the first button 31 and the second interlocking member 51. The second interlocking member 51 may be located between the second button 32 and the first interlocking member 50.

The first interlocking member 50 may be proximate to the first spring portion 97 of the spring system 33 and/or the second interlocking member 51 may be proximate to the second spring portion 98 of the spring system 33. The first and second interlocking members 50,51 may be in the form of latches. The latch may have downwardly facing planar surfaces 118,119 (e.g., facing the bottom wall 14 of the container body 2) configured to engage with complementary interlocking members 52 located on the lid 4 in a manner that secures the lid 4 in the closed position. When the lid 4 is in the closed position, the planar surfaces 118,119 of the interlocking members 50,51 may face and engage the planar faces 54 of the complementary interlocking members 52,53 such that the lid 4 cannot be opened.

The interlocking members 50,51 may include angled surfaces 120, 121. The angled surfaces 120,121 can be configured to facilitate movement of the cover 4 to the closed position by engaging corresponding surfaces on the cover 4 (e.g., the angled faces 55 of the complementary interlocking members 52, 53), thereby facilitating flexing or otherwise deforming of at least a portion of the cover 4, the securing member 30, the frame 5, and/or the body sufficient to move the cover 4 to the fully closed position. When the angled surfaces 120,121 no longer engage the corresponding surfaces 55, the flexed or deformed portion returns to its original position and the lid 4 is securely closed with the engagement of the interlocking members 50,51 and the complementary interlocking members 52, 53.

The latches 50,51 may be characterized by a latch width 95 measured as the distance between the inner edges 91,93 and the outer edges 92,94 of the latches. The latch width 95 may be related to and/or substantially the same as the distance the latches 50,51 must move in order to disengage from complementary interlocking structures 52,53, such as fasteners. Latches 50,51 having a larger width 95 may have to move a greater distance to disengage. A larger latch may provide a larger contact surface with the complementary interlocking structure, which may make the latching system 3 more secure. The size of the latch, the distance 95 the latch must move to disengage the complementary interlocking structure, and/or the ratio thereof, can be optimized by one of ordinary skill.

An outer edge 91 of the first latch 50 and an outer edge 93 of the second latch 51 may be spaced apart by a distance 96. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that providing a relatively small distance 96 between the two latches 50,51 results in the two latches 50,51 effectively securing the lid 4 at a single latch point. When the two latches 50,51 are substantially spaced apart, one end of the lid 4 can be pried open when one latch 50 is disengaged, even when the other latch 51 remains engaged. However, when the two latches 50,51 are closer and act essentially as a single latch, in particular when they are located near the central part of the lid edge, the lid 4 is more difficult to pry apart when only one latch is disengaged due to less leverage. Furthermore, where the two latches 50,51 are positioned to act substantially as one latch, the risk of the closure being fully closed and locking when it is not actually closed is believed to be less than in a system where the latches are positioned further apart. In addition, the configuration described requires the operation of two push buttons 31,32 in order to open the lid 4, however a system comprising a single push button operatively connected to a single latch is relatively easier to handle and therefore may be less robust.

In light of the present disclosure, one of ordinary skill will be able to set the size, location and configuration of the latch in a suitable manner, preferably in a manner that causes both latches 50,51 to operate at virtually a single latching point. For example, the manufacturer may manipulate the length of the latches 95, the depth of the latches, and/or the distance 96 between the latches. The distance 96 between the outer edges 92,94 of the first and second interlocking members 50,51 (e.g., latches) may be about 10mm to about 60mm, preferably about 10mm to about 40mm, more preferably about 10mm to about 25mm when the first and second buttons 31,32 are in their respective first positions.

The container system 1 and/or the latching system 3 of the present disclosure may include a spring system 33. As shown in fig. 5, the spring system 33 may be part of the fixation member 30, preferably an integrally formed part thereof. The spring system 33 may resiliently bias the first button 31 to its first position and the second button 32 to its first position.

The spring system 33 may comprise a resiliently flexible material such as metal, silicone or a flexible plastic, preferably a flexible plastic. Plastic is a material that is easily recycled, which may thus increase the environmental friendliness of the container system.

Spring system 33 may have any suitable configuration or shape. The spring system 33 may be substantially in the shape of the letter M, N, S, U, V or W. The spring system 33 may be in the shape of a coil. The spring system 33 may comprise a flange which deforms under pressure and biases the push button to its first position when the pressure is released. Depending on the configuration, the spring system 33 may be compressed or stretched and then return to its original shape to bias the buttons 31,32 to their first positions. The spring system 33 shown in fig. 5 is compressed when the push buttons 31,32 are moved from their respective first positions to their respective second positions.

The spring system 33 may independently spring bias the first and second buttons 31, 32. For example, the spring system 33 may include a first spring portion 97 that biases the first button 31 to its first position. The spring system 33 may include a second spring portion 98 that independently biases the second button 32 to its first position. Thus, moving the first button 31 does not substantially move the second button 32, and moving the second button 32 does not substantially move the first button 31, resulting in both buttons 31,32 having to be operated independently in order to open the lid 4.

The spring system 33 may be located between the first and second buttons 31,32, as shown in fig. 5. However, alternative configurations are also contemplated by the present disclosure. For example, the spring system 33 may comprise at least two parts at or near the ends of the fixation member 30, and the buttons 31,32 may be between the two parts. In such a configuration, not shown in the figures of the present invention, the spring system 33 can be anchored to the frame 5 or to the container body 2 and is stretched when the push- buttons 31,32 are moved from their respective first positions to their respective second positions. When the moving force is removed, the spring can retract to its original form, pulling the buttons 31,32 to their respective first positions.

When the push buttons 31,32 are positioned next to the interlocking members 50,51, the latch system 3 can be opened more easily than when the push buttons 31,32 and the interlocking members 50,51 are spaced apart. Thus, to provide a safer container system 1, the first button 31 may be spaced apart from the first interlocking member 50 and the second button 32 may be spaced apart from the second interlocking member 51. The buttons 31,32 may be spaced at least about 0.5cm, or at least about 1cm, or at least about 2cm, or at least about 3cm, or at least about 4cm, or at least about 5cm from the respective interlocking member 50, 51. It may be desirable to select a configuration that spaces the buttons 31,32 from the interlocking members 50,51, but still allows for one-handed operation of the securing member. This configuration may also allow the interlocking members 50,51 to be brought together in close proximity so that they can effectively operate as a single latching point.

The fixation member 30 may include one or more intermediate portions 99, 100. The intermediate portions 99,100 may be located between the buttons 31,32 and the interlocking members 50,51, such as latches. The intermediate portions 99,100 may be used to space the buttons 31,32 from the interlocking members 50, 51. The intermediate portions 99,100 operatively connect the buttons 31,32 and the interlocking members 50, 51. The securing member 30 may include a first intermediate portion 99 located between the first push button 31 and the first interlocking member 50. Securing member 30 may include a second intermediate portion 100 located between second button 32 and second interlocking member 51. The intermediate portions 99,100 may include a top wall 101, a front wall 102, and a rear wall 103. The front and rear walls 102,103 may depend, e.g., hang downwardly, from the top wall 101 of the intermediate portions 99, 100.

The fixation member 30 may include a gap 104,105 between at least a portion of the intermediate portion 99,100 and the spring system 33. A first gap 104 may be located between first intermediate portion 99 and first spring portion 97. A second gap 105 may be located between the second intermediate portion 100 and the second spring portion 98. As shown in fig. 5, the intermediate portions 99,100 may be connected to the spring system 33 while still forming the gaps 104, 105. A gap 106 may also exist between the first spring portion 97 and the second spring portion 98. The gaps 104,105,106 described herein may allow for movement and/or compression of the fixation member 30.

The securing system 30 and/or the spring system 33 may be configured such that a predetermined minimum amount of force needs to be applied in order to move the first and second buttons 31,32 from their respective first positions to their respective second positions. The need for a predetermined minimum amount of force may help prevent accidental opening of the latching system 3. The predetermined minimum amount of force required to simultaneously move the buttons 31,32 from the respective first positions to the respective second positions may be: from about 1 to about 10 pounds, or from about 1 to about 5 pounds, or from about 1 to about 3.5 pounds. The predetermined minimum amount of force required may be from about 1.5N to about 45N, or from about 3N to about 22N, or from about 5N to about 20N, or to about 15N. The predetermined minimum amount of force may be adjusted by the particular configuration of the spring system 33, the selection of the material of the spring system, adjusting the friction surface along which the button or other component of the fixation member 30 moves when operated, or any other configuration or solution that would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in light of this disclosure.

The fixation member 30 may include one or more stop features 107, 108. One or more stop features 107,108 may be located on the intermediate portions 99,100 of the fixation member 30. One or more stops 107,108 may be configured to limit movement of the buttons 31, 32. For example, the stop features 107,108 may project away from the fixation member 30 and may include stop surfaces 109, 110. When the buttons 31,32 are moved from the first position to the second position, the stop surfaces 109,110 may contact another surface, such as a fixed surface on the lid 4 (e.g., an edge of the complementary interlocking members 52, 53), the frame 5, or the container body 2, thereby limiting, slowing, or even preventing further movement of the buttons 31, 32. The stop features 107,108 may be advantageous to limit wear and tear on the spring system 33 and/or to prevent the securing member 30 from being pressed to the extent of disconnecting from the rest of the latching system 3.

The container system 1 may include one or more stability features. The stability feature may be in addition to the interlocking and complementary interlocking members 50,51,52, 53. The one or more stability features may be configured to add additional stability and/or structural support to the latching system 3 when the lid 4 is in the closed position to further reduce the likelihood of accidental opening. The container system 1 can include at least two stability features that can be located on opposite sides of the interlocking features 51,52 when the lid 4 is in the closed position. The one or more stability features may include at least one pair, and preferably two pairs, of complementary structures, such as extensions 164,165 and receiving portions 162,163 configured to receive extensions 164,165 when lid 4 is in the closed position. When the extension portions 164,165 are nested within the receiving portions 162,163 or otherwise adjacent to the receiving portions 162,163, the latching system 3 may have relatively greater resilience to deformation forces that may otherwise undesirably disengage the interlocking members 51, 52. Due in part to the stability feature, the security of the latching system 3 is increased and actuating the buttons 31,32 may be the only possible way to open the container system 1.

As shown in fig. 5 and 6, the receiving portions 162,163 in the form of open pockets may be formed by the stop structures 107,108 including the stop surfaces 109,110, and the rear wall 103 of the fixation member. The receiving portions 162,163 may be configured to receive extension portions 164,165 located on the cover 4 (see, e.g., fig. 12). The stability features 160,161 help to maintain engagement between the interlocking members and the complementary interlocking members 51,52,53,54 when the lid 4 is closed. This increased support and safety is particularly relevant when the front wall 10 flexes inwardly (e.g., if the container system 1 is squeezed by a force along the Z-axis) or outwardly (e.g., if the container system 1 is squeezed by a force along the X-axis). Thus, accidental opening (e.g., when the container system 1 is dropped or stepped on) may be avoided.

The present disclosure contemplates other configurations with stability features, even if not shown. For example: the receiving portion may be located on the frame; the extension portion may be located on the fixing member or the frame, and the receiving portion may be located on the cover; the extension may be in the form of a post or flange; the receiving portion may be in the form of a hole or slot.

Fig. 7 shows a bottom front perspective view of an exemplary fixation member 30. The front wall 102, rear wall 103, and top wall 101 of the intermediate portions 99,100 may substantially define an interior space 111. The intermediate portions 99,100 may include support structures, such as ribs 112, to provide strength to the securing member 30, which may be used to maintain the general shape of the securing member when a force is applied to the buttons 31, 32. The support ribs 112 may extend between the front wall 102 and the rear wall 103. The support ribs may extend between the top wall 101 and the front wall 102, the rear wall 103, or both.

The fixation member 30 may include one or more connector portions 113,114,115,116. Connector portion 113,114,115,116 facilitates connecting and securing member 30 in place to another portion of container system 1. The connector portion 113,114,115,116 may be located on the intermediate portions 99,100 of the fixation member 30. As shown in fig. 7, the connector portion 113,114,115,116 may extend downwardly away from the top wall 101 of the intermediate portions 99, 100. The connector portion 113,114,115,116 may include any suitable configuration that is complementary to a corresponding structure on another portion of the container system 1. For example, as shown in fig. 7, the connector portion 113,114,115,116 may be in the shape of a resiliently flexible hook. The hook may deflect when the securing member 30 is connected to another part of the latching system 3 (e.g., the frame 5), but retract to the proper position once the hook moves past the corresponding structure, thereby connecting the securing member 30 to the component. Additionally or alternatively, the connector (e.g., a hook on another portion of the container system 1 (e.g., the frame 5)) may be moved past a connector portion, which may be a hook, flange, or edge surrounding the opening, and then snapped into place. Although connector portion 113,114,115,116 facilitates secure connection to another portion of container system 1, connector portion 113,114,115,116 may still allow movement of securing member 30, such as, of course, when rear buttons 31,32 are moved from the first position to the second position. The connector portion 113,114,115,116 may be configured to slide relative to a corresponding structure on the other component while still substantially securing the fixation member 30 to the other component.

As mentioned above, the cover 4 and/or the securing member 30 may be connected to the frame 5 of the latching system 3. Fig. 8 illustrates a rear top perspective view of the frame 5 according to the present disclosure. The frame 5 may have an outer perimeter 140 that generally defines the footprint of the frame 5. An outer skirt 141 may depend downwardly from the perimeter 140 of the frame 5; the outer skirt 141 may terminate at a distal lower edge 142. The outer skirt 141 may be configured to fit within the outside of the container body walls 10,11,12,13 defining the opening 16, as shown in fig. 1-2. The outer skirt 141 may be configured to fit inside the walls 10,11,12,13 defining the opening 16 of the container body so as to be substantially inset relative to the rim 124 or mouth of the container body 2, as shown in fig. 23. The insertion configuration may be advantageous because the lower edge 142 of the frame 5 is effectively hidden to the interior of the container body 2 and is inaccessible to external forces that may cause the frame 5 to be pried away from the container body 2.

The frame 5 may include an upwardly projecting wall 143 near the perimeter 140 of the frame 5. The upwardly projecting wall 143 may generally follow the shape of the perimeter 140 and may be continuous or discontinuous about the perimeter 140. The recess 144 may be located between the upwardly projecting wall 143 and at least a portion of the upper surface 35 of the frame 5. The upwardly projecting walls 143 and/or recesses 144 (or functionally similar structures, such as indentations or protrusions) may facilitate nesting and/or stacking of the latching system 3 or container system 1, resulting in more stable storage and/or transport.

The frame 5 may comprise a guiding structure 145 protruding away from the frame 5. The guide structure 145 may be positioned and configured to guide the fixation member 30 along a predetermined path when the first and/or second buttons 31,32 are operated. The guide structure 145 may be in the form of, for example, a post, rib, groove, clamp, or mixture thereof.

Fixation member 30 may be relatively elongated and, thus, may be susceptible to undesirable bending when a force is applied at one or both ends. Accordingly, the guide structure 145 may be configured to inhibit such flexing. For example, the guide structure 145 can form a continuous or discontinuous rib about or over which the fixation member 30 can slide (if, for example, the fixation member 30 is configured with an interior space 111 adapted to receive the guide structure 145). The guide structure 145 may form a slot or channel that may receive the fixation member 30 and limit undesirable deflection.

The frame 5 may include a connection portion 146 that facilitates a secure connection between the fixation member 30 and the frame 5 such that the fixation member 30 does not fall out under normal use conditions. The connecting portion 146 may be configured to engage the connecting portion 113,114,115,116 on the fixation member 30. For example, the connecting portion 146 of the frame 5 may be configured to receive the hook 116 or latch of the fixation member 30. The connecting portion 146 of the frame 5 should be configured to engage with the fixation member 30, but also allow relative movement of the buttons 31,32 from the first position to the second position. The connecting portion 146 may have a width 147 that is at least as wide as the distance the buttons 31,32 move between the first and second positions, e.g., to allow the securing member 30 to slide freely between the two positions. The connecting portion 146 may be configured such that the fixation member 30 may not be removed without damaging the fixation member 30 or other components of the container system 1 such that the attachment of the fixation member 30 is functionally permanent. In other configurations, other portions of the container system may include connector portions 146 such that the securing member 30 may be attached to those other components, such as the container body 2 or the lid 4.

The frame 5 may include a wall, such as a front wall 40. The wall 40 may protrude upwardly from the frame 5. The wall 40 may be configured to visually enclose at least a portion of the fixation member 30. Such walls 40 may help improve the overall aesthetics of the container system 1 and may help protect the securing member 30 from impact or foreign objects (such as dirt), thereby maintaining the integrity and functionality of the latching system 3.

The frame 5 may include structure that is part of the biasing system 60. The frame 5 may comprise a first, a second and optionally a third support portion 65,66,67 adapted to receive and/or hold the resilient member 61. The support portions 65,66,67 may include recessed portions 69 that form receiving channels 70. The support portions 65,66,67 may include clip portions 71 that help secure the resilient members. Gaps 72,73 may be present between the first, second and optionally third support portions 65,66, 67. Suitable biasing systems 60 are discussed in more detail below.

The frame 5 may comprise a portion of a hinge 36 that results in the frame 5 being hinged to the frame 5. For example, the frame 5 may include a hinge pin receiving portion 148 adapted to receive a hinge pin. The hinge pin may be a separate piece or it may be an integral part of the cover 4. In another configuration, it is contemplated that the frame 5 may include a hinge pin or protrusion operable to interact with a hinge pin receiving portion on the cover 4.

Fig. 9 illustrates a bottom front perspective view of the frame 5 according to the present disclosure. As shown in fig. 9, the first and second buttons 31,32 of the fixation member 30 are visible, but the front wall 40 of the frame 5 substantially covers the rest of the fixation member 30 when viewed from the front. It is contemplated that the lip 37 on the cover 4 may rest radially inward or radially outward of the front wall 40 of the frame 5 relative to the opening 139 of the frame 5.

The frame 5 may include an inner wall 149 that helps define an inner perimeter 150 of the opening 139 of the frame 5. The inner wall 149 may depend downwardly away from the frame 5. The frame 5 may include an inner skirt 151 spaced from and/or radially inward of the outer skirt 141. The inner skirt 151 may facilitate assembly or attachment of the closure system 3 to the container body 2, for example by fitting on the inside of the rim 124 or upper portion of the container body 2 and helping to guide the frame 5 into position. When the frame 5 is attached to the container body 2, the rim 124 or upper portion of the container body 2 may be located between the outer skirt and the inner wall 149 or inner skirt 151 of the frame 5. The inner skirt 151 can intersect and/or engage the inner wall 149 at an intersection point 152.

Fig. 10 is a close-up view of a portion of the container system 1, as highlighted by circle C of fig. 1, from a front perspective view, looking inward from the exterior of the container system 1. The securing member 30 is connected to the frame 5 of the latching system 3. There is a space 117 between the fixing member 30 (i.e., the front wall 102) and the frame 5 (i.e., the edge 39). The lip 37 of the lid 4 may fit into this space 117 when the lid 4 is in the closed position. Thus, lip 37 will cover securing member 30 and front wall 40 and edge 39 of frame 5 will effectively conceal lower edge 41 of lip 37, thereby preventing a prying finger from gaining leverage to force lid 4 open.

Fig. 11 is substantially the same portion as the container system 1 of fig. 10, but viewed looking outward from the interior of the container system 1 (e.g., from the rear wall 11 toward the front wall 10). From this view, the interlocking members 50,51 of the securing member 30 are visible.

The stop structures 107,108 (including stop surfaces 109,110) are also visible in fig. 11, as is the spring system 33. Further, there is a gap 122,123 adjacent each interlocking member 50, 51. Gaps 122,123 may be interposed between the interlocking members 50,51 and the stop features 107, 108. The gaps 122,123 may be sized and positioned to enable the complementary interlocking members 52,53 to pass through the gaps 122, 123.

Fig. 12 shows a close-up view of a portion of the cover 4 highlighted by circle a of fig. 1. The complementary interlocking members 52,53 are shown projecting away from the inner surface 42 of the cover 4. The complementary interlocking members 52,53 may project substantially downward when the lid 4 is in the closed position (e.g., toward the bottom wall 14). The locking system may comprise more than one complementary interlocking member, such as a first complementary locking member 52 and a second complementary locking member 53. The first and second complementary interlocking members 52,53 may be spaced apart.

The complementary interlocking members 52,53 may be configured to engage with the interlocking members 50,51 of the securing member 30 in a manner that secures the lid 4 in the closed position. The complementary interlocking members 52,53 may be in the form of latches, fasteners and/or hooks. The complementary interlocking members 52,53 may include a substantially flat surface 54. The planar surface 54 may face upward, e.g., toward the inner surface 42 of the lid 4, when the lid 4 is in the closed position. The flat surface 54 may be configured to engage with corresponding surfaces 118,119 of the interlocking members 50, 51.

The complementary interlocking members 52,53 may include an angled surface 55. The angled surface 55 may be configured to facilitate movement of the cover 4 to the closed position by engaging with a corresponding surface on the stationary member 30, the frame 5, or the body 2 to facilitate flexing or otherwise deforming at least a portion of the cover 4, the stationary member 30, the frame 5, and/or the body 2 sufficiently to allow the cover 4 to move to the fully closed position. When the angled surface 55 no longer engages the corresponding surface, the deflected or deformed portion returns to its original position and the lid 4 is securely closed with the interconnecting members 50,51 and the complementary interlocking members 52,53 engaged.

Lip 37 of lid 4 may include support structures, such as ribs 56. The support ribs 56 may provide strength and/or support to the lip 37 when the lip 37 covers and protects the securing member 30 when the lid 4 is in the closed position.

The cover 4 may include one or more extensions 164, 165. The extensions 164,165 may be part of the stability features of the container system 1. The one or more extension portions 164,165 may be configured to be received by the one or more receiving portions 162,163 when the lid is in the closed position. As shown in fig. 12, the extensions 164,165 are in the form of ribs that depend downwardly from the inner surface 42 of the cover 4. The extensions 164,165 may be mesa-shaped, e.g., angled or rounded, to facilitate their entry and receipt into the receiving portions 162, 163. Although shown in the form of ribs, the extensions 164,165 may have any suitable configuration, such as one or more posts.

Fig. 13 shows a close-up view of the portion highlighted by circle E in fig. 3. The lid 4 is in the closed position. The interlocking member 50 (which may be one or more latches) of the securing member 30 engages with a complementary locking member 52 of the lid 4, which may be one or more fasteners. More specifically, the flat surface 118 of the interlocking member 50 is adjacent to and in confronting engagement with the flat surface 54 of the complementary interlocking member 52.

The lip 37 of the lid 4 may cover at least a portion of the securing member 30 and/or the entire locking system. The frame 5 may include an edge 39 located near the perimeter 140 of the frame 5. When the cover 4 is in the closed position, the lower edge 41 of the lip 37 may rest radially inward relative to the central axis 21 at the edge 39 of the frame 5. When the lip 37 of the lid 4 is inserted relative to the frame 5, the lid 4 is more difficult to pry open in a manner that would otherwise circumvent the intended use of the locking system of the container system.

To open the container system 1, the user moves the first and second buttons 31,32 from their first respective positions to their second respective positions, thereby disengaging the interlocking members 50,51 from the complementary interlocking members 52, 53. Fig. 14 to 15 schematically show this process. Lines G, H, I and J are provided for reference to show the relative difference in position as the buttons 31,32 move from the first position to the second position.

Fig. 14 schematically shows the fixing member 30 from a top view. In this schematic view, the cover 4 (not shown) is closed and the interlocking members 50,51 of the securing member 30 engage with complementary interlocking members 52,53 (hidden under the interlocking members of the securing member 30). In this rest position, the buttons 31,32 are in their respective first positions.

In fig. 15, forces are applied to the buttons 31,32 in the directions M and N, respectively, and the buttons 31,32 have moved from their respective first positions to their respective second positions. Here, the buttons 31,32 are moved closer to each other. The spring system 33 is compressed and stores potential energy. The interlocking members 50,51 have slid over the complementary interlocking members 52,53 such that the outer edges 92,94 of the interlocking members 50,51 have cleared the inner edges of the complementary interlocking members 53, 54. The lid 4 can now be opened. Furthermore, the stop surfaces 109,110 of the stop formations 107,108 may quickly contact the outer edges of the complementary interlocking members 51, 52. Due to this contact the buttons 31,32 can no longer move further.

When the first and second push buttons 31,32 are released, the spring system 33 releases its potential energy and urges the push buttons 31,32 to return to their respective first positions. When the lid 4 is in the open position, the interlocking members 50,51 are no longer engaged with the complementary interlocking members 52, 53.

Fig. 16 shows a close-up view of a portion of the container system 1, highlighted by circle B of fig. 1, including a biasing system 60. The cover 4 is hingedly connected to the frame 5 at hinge 36. The lid 4 is rotatable about the hinge axis 20 from a closed position to an open position and vice versa.

The latching system 3 may include a biasing system 60. Biasing system 60 may be configured to bias lid 4 toward the open position.

Biasing system 60 may include a resilient member 61. When the cover 4 is in the closed position, the elastic member 61 may be elastically deformed, thereby storing potential energy. When the interlocking members 50,51 are disengaged from the complementary interlocking members 52,54, the deformed resilient member 61 can return to its original shape and urge the lid 4 to, or at least towards, its open position.

As shown in fig. 17, the elastic member 61 includes a first end portion 62, a second end portion 63, and an intermediate portion 64 disposed between the first and second end portions 62, 63. For example, at least a portion of the first and/or second ends 62,63 may be relatively enlarged to better secure in the receiving channel 70 and/or by the clamp 71, as described below. The resilient member 61 shown in fig. 16 and 17 is enlarged at both the first and second ends 62,63, meaning that the member has an average diameter at the first and second ends 62,63 that is greater than the diameter at the middle portion 64. Thus, the elastic member 61 can be effectively fixed at the both end portions 62,63, but sufficiently deformed at the intermediate portion 64.

The configuration and material of the elastic member 61 may be selected by one of ordinary skill to provide the desired characteristics. The elastic member 61 may be characterized by the following tensile elongation values (200 mm/min; cross flow: break; 2.00 mm): from about 300% to about 500%, or from about 350% to about 450%, or about 400%, as determined according to test method ISO 37. The elastic member 61 may be characterized by the following tensile elongation (200 mm/min; flow: break; 2.00 mm): from about 300% to about 500%, or from about 350% to about 450%, or about 380%, as determined according to test method ISO 37. The elastic member 61 may be characterized by the following Shore hardness values (Shore A; 3 seconds): from about 40 to about 100, or from about 50 to about 80, or from about 55 to about 65, or about 60, as determined according to test method ISO 868. ISO (International organization for standardization) test methods are known and available to those of ordinary skill in the art.

The elastic member 61 may comprise any suitable elastic material, preferably silicone, rubber or thermoplastic elastomer.

The elastic member 61 may have any suitable shape. The elastic member 61 may have a substantially rectangular, circular or oval cross-section.

Returning to fig. 16, latching system 3 may include a first support portion 65 and a second support portion 66. The first and second support portions 65,66 may be located on the frame 5. The first and second support portions 65,66 may extend away from a base surface 68 of the frame 5, e.g., upwardly from the base surface 68. There may be at least one gap 72,73 between the first and second support portions 65, 66.

The first and/or second support portions 65,66 may include recessed portions 69 or otherwise recessed areas that form receiving channels 70 configured to receive and/or retain the resilient members 61. The recessed portion 69 may be in the shape of at least a portion of a "U" or a circle. The first and/or second support portions 65,66 may include a clamp portion 71 that helps to secure the resilient member 61 in place, for example by friction, particularly when at least one portion of the resilient member 61 is enlarged relative to another portion. The clip portion 71 may include a space narrower than the widest portion of the receiving channel 70 so that the resilient portion 61 may be pushed through the space in the clip portion 71, but is challenging to remove.

The latching system 3 may comprise at least a third support portion 67. The third support portion 67 may extend away (e.g., upwardly away) from the base surface 68 of the frame 5. The third support portion 67 may include a recessed portion configured to align with the receiving channel 70. The third support portion 67 may be located between the first and second support portions 65, 66. Gaps 72,73 may exist between the third support portion 67 and either or both of the first and second support portions 65, 66. The first gap 72 may rest between the first and third support portions 65, 67; the second gap 73 may rest between the second and third support portions 66, 67. The third support portion 67 may or may not include a clamp to help secure the elastic member 61.

The cover 4 may include at least one protrusion 74,75 extending away from the inner surface 42 of the cover 4. The at least one protrusion 74,75 may be located at a position on the lid 4 to coincide and/or fit into at least one gap 72,73 located between the first and second support portions 65,66 when the lid 4 is in the closed position. The at least one protrusion 74,75 may include a receiving portion 76,77 configured to contact the resilient member when the lid 4 is in the closed position. When the cover 4 is in the closed position, the protrusions 74,75 contact the elastic member 61, thereby deforming it. The receiving portions 76,77 of the protrusions 74,75 may be configured to fit the general shape of the resilient member 61 such that the resilient member 61 is relatively held in place while deforming, rather than rolling away from the protrusion 61, for example. The protrusions 74,75 may deform the resilient member 61 into the gaps 72,73 between the first and second support portions 65,66 when the cover 4 is in the closed position. The cover 4 may comprise at least two protrusions 76,77, wherein the first protrusion 74 is located at a position on the cover 4 so as to coincide and/or fit into the first gap 72, and the second protrusion 75 is located at a position on the cover 4 so as to coincide and/or fit into the second gap 73.

Fig. 18-21 show schematic front views representative of an exemplary biasing system 60, and the resulting deformation pattern of the resilient member 61 when the lid 4 is in the closed position.

Fig. 18 shows the resilient member 61 deformed into the gap between the first and second support structures 65,66 by one projection 74 extending from the cover 4. Here, the elastic member is bent into a substantially U-shape or V-shape. The biasing system 60 of fig. 19 is substantially similar to that of fig. 18, but the tab 74 is relatively wider than in fig. 18. The biasing system 60 of fig. 20 includes two protrusions 74,75 extending from the cover 4. As configured in fig. 20, the resilient member 61 deforms to substantially the same shape as in fig. 19, but deforms at two smaller contact points rather than a single larger contact point. The biasing system of fig. 21 comprises first, second and third support structures 65,66,67, and two protrusions 74,75 extending from the cover 4. The two protrusions 74,75 deform the resilient member into the respective gaps 72,73 between the support structures 65,66, 67. Here, the elastic member 61 is bent into a substantially W shape.

It should be understood that the configurations shown and described herein are merely exemplary, and that one of ordinary skill would be able to contemplate other configurations in light of the disclosure herein. For example, the support portion that retains the resilient member may be located on and extend away from the inner surface of the cover, and the protrusion may be located on the planar base surface. It is also contemplated that one or both ends of the resilient member will extend past either or both sides of one or more support portions, where they can be deformed into, for example, an inverted U-shape by corresponding protrusions. In such configurations, the latching system may include only one support portion, and the middle portion of the resilient member may be enlarged, e.g., to be better gripped or secured by the support portion, as compared to the end portions that are relatively thin to facilitate deformation.

Fig. 22 shows a cross-sectional view of biasing system 60 highlighted by circle F in fig. 3. The resilient member 61 is shown resting in the channel formed by the support structure 65.

Fig. 23 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternative biasing system 60a that may be suitable for use with the latching system 3 and container system 1 according to the present disclosure. The biasing system 60a of fig. 23 may be located at or near the hinge 36 of the container system 1, such as at the location of the portion highlighted by circle F of fig. 3.

In the container system 1 of fig. 23, a latching system 3 comprising a lid 4 hingedly attached to a frame 5 is connected to a container body 2. The lid 4 is in the closed position. Biasing system 60a includes a resilient member 61a that biases lid 4 toward the open position. The elastic member 61a is connected to the cover 4 at a first port 78 configured to receive the elastic member 61a and is connected to the frame 5 at a second port 79 configured to receive the elastic member 61 a. When the cover 4 is in the closed position, the elastic member 61a is deformed, for example, in a C-shape, and stores potential energy. When the interlocking members 50,51 are disengaged from the complementary interlocking members 52,53 (not shown in fig. 23), the deformed resilient member 61a may return to its original shape, e.g., an L-shape or a substantially straight line, and bias the lid 4 to or toward its open position. In fig. 23, the resilient member 61a is shown as being substantially attached to the outer surface of both the cover 4 and the frame 5, which may be advantageous as it occupies less space in the interior volume. However, it is contemplated that the resilient member 61a may also be attached to the inner surface 42 of the cover 4, the frame 5, or both.

The resilient member 61a may be co-molded with one or more components of the container system 1, for example, by bi-injection molding. For example, the elastic member 61a may be formed via co-molding (e.g., double injection molding) with the frame 5 and/or the cover 4. The elastic member 61a may be a different material from the frame 5 and/or the cover 4. The elastic member 61a may be a thermoplastic elastomer. Thermoplastic elastomers may be desirable compared to other materials, such as metal springs, because thermoplastic elastomers will not corrode, have sharp edges that may puncture or abrade the material contained in the container system 1, and are generally recyclable.

The biasing system 60 may include a torsion portion, a blade, and/or a compression spring. The biasing system 60 may include a coil spring (not shown) which may be made of metal or other suitable resilient material.

Fig. 24 illustrates additional or alternative features that may be included in the container system 1 and/or the latching system 3 of the present disclosure. The lid 4 is in the closed position and has a substantially oval shape. The cover 4 is connected to the frame 5 in an articulated manner by two hinges 36a,36 b. The frame 5 is connected to the container body 2 and is inserted with respect to the upper edge 124 of the body 2. In this illustration, the lid 4 does not include a lip covering the securing member 30, with the intermediate portions 99,100 being visible when the lid 4 is in the closed position. The buttons 31,32 include surface irregularities 125 in the form of ribs and/or grooves to provide a more grippable surface.

The latching system 3 of fig. 24 includes a tamper-evident feature 127. As shown, the tamper-evident feature 127 is a removable tab. The removable tabs 127 are rigid structures and are connected to the first and second intermediate portions 99,100 of the fixed member 30. When the tabs 127 are in place and connected to the intermediate portions 99,100, the buttons 31,32 cannot be moved to their respective second positions and the lid 4 cannot be opened. However, the tamper evident feature 127 includes lines of weakness 128,129, with the removable tab 127 joined to the intermediate portion. Tab 127 may be removed by breaking the material (e.g., plastic) at lines of weakness 128, 129. Once the tabs 127 are removed, the buttons 31,32 can be moved and the lid 4 can be opened.

Fig. 25 illustrates another suitable configuration of the container system 1 described herein. Here, the fixing member 30 is connected to the container body 2. The container body 2 includes a lip 130 that substantially covers the securing member 30, except for the first and second buttons 31, 32. The latching system 3 may include a cover 4 and a frame 5. The frame 5 of the latching system 3 may be snap-fit to the container body 2, the upper edge of which includes a plurality of slots, which may include primary slots 132 and/or secondary slots 131 configured to receive connection tabs (not shown).

Fig. 26 illustrates another suitable configuration of the container system 1 described herein. Here, the lid 4 is in the closed position. The fixing member 30 is mainly connected to the cover 4. The frame 5 includes recesses 133,134 configured to receive the buttons 31,32 of the fixation member 30. The hinge 36 has a low profile and is integrated into the latching system 3. The biasing system 60 comprises a resilient member 61a in the form of an insert which biases the lid 4 towards the open position when the locking system is disengaged. The insert 61a may be made of, for example, a thermoplastic elastomer.

Fig. 27 shows the container system 1 of fig. 26 with the lid 4 in an open position. As described above, the fixing member 30 is connected to the cover 4. The securing member 30 is a single piece and includes elbows 135, 136. The securing member 30 also includes a latch 50.

Guide formations in the form of posts 137,138 project away from the inner surface 42 of the lid 4. When the buttons 13,32 are pressed, the posts 137,138 act as guides to guide the movement of the fixation member 30. The posts 137,138 may also serve as attachment portions to help secure the securing member 30 to the cover 4.

Upon squeezing the button, the securing member 30 flexes primarily at the bends 135,136 configured to pull the latch 50 of the securing member 30 toward the hinge 36 and away from a catch (not shown) located on the frame 5. When the squeezing force is removed from the push buttons 31,32, the flexion bends 135,136, which act as spring systems 33, return to their initial positions and move the push buttons 31,32 to their respective first positions.

Fig. 28 shows an alternative configuration of the container system 1 of fig. 26. Here, the securing means are present in two separate parts 30a,30 b. The posts 137,138 projecting downwardly away from the inner surface 42 of the cover 4 may serve as guide structures that guide the movement of the securing members 30a,30b and/or as connecting portions to secure the securing members 30a,30b to the cover 4. When the lid 4 is closed, the latches 50,51 engage with complementary interlocking members, which may be located on the frame 5. The posts 137,138 may be configured such that when the buttons 31,32 are pressed inwardly, the latches 50,51 move away from the complementary interlocking members, allowing the lid 4 to move to the open position. The posts 137,138 may be configured such that when the buttons 31,32 are operated, the latches 50,51 move away from each other. The posts 137,138 may be configured such that when the button is operated, the latches 50,51 move toward each other.

As shown in fig. 28, the securing member may be in at least two pieces, e.g., a first piece 30a and a second piece 30 b. However, it is contemplated that the fixation member 30 may be formed as a single piece when operated in this general configuration. For example, the two pieces 30a,30b may include a flexible portion, e.g., in the shape of a "V" or "W" (not shown), that may flex inward or otherwise become narrower when the two buttons 31,32 are operated. The flexible portion may be a spring system 33 which helps to bias the buttons 31,32 to the respective first positions.

The present disclosure relates to a container system 1 comprising a container body 2 comprising walls 10,11,12,13,14 defining a closed end, an opening 16 and an interior volume 17; a latching system 3 comprising a hinged cover 4, and preferably a frame 5, wherein the cover 4 is selectively movable between a closed position covering the opening 16 and an open position allowing access to the interior volume 17, wherein the hinged cover 4 remains in the closed position when the first interlocking member 50 is engaged with the complementary interlocking member 52; and a securing member 30 that is non-integral with the body 2 and non-integral with the lid 4 (and preferably non-integral with the frame 5), the securing member 30 comprising a first button 31 and a second button 32 spaced from (but preferably engaged to) the first button 31, the first and second buttons 31,32 each being biased to a respective first position and each being movable to a respective second position, wherein movement of the first and second buttons 31,32 to their respective second positions causes at least the first interlocking member 50 to disengage from the complementary interlocking member 52 and enables the lid 4 to move from the closed position to the open position. When the first and second push buttons 31,32 are moved to their second positions, the second interlocking member 51 may disengage from the second complementary interlocking member 53, enabling the lid 4 to be moved to the open position. The first button 31 (and optionally the second button 32) is operatively connected to the first interlocking member 50; the second button 32 is operatively connected to the second interlocking member 51.

Content(s) therein

The container system 1 can be adapted to contain, and can contain, any suitable contents, materials or compositions. Typical materials and compositions include, but are not limited to, fabric care treatments, hard surface cleaners, soaps, shampoos, conditioners, insecticides, pigments, solvents, industrial chemicals, industrial hardware (e.g., nails, screws, etc.), pharmaceuticals, pills, foods, and the like. The material may be a water sensitive material, meaning that the material has a tendency to dissolve or degrade when exposed to liquid water or water vapor.

The material may be a consumer product. Suitable consumer products may include, but are not limited to, compositions for: treating hair (human, canine and/or feline) including bleaching, coloring, dyeing, conditioning, growing, removing, retarding growth, shampooing, and/or styling; deodorants and antiperspirants; personal cleansing; a color cosmetic; products and/or methods related to the treatment of skin (human, canine, and/or feline) including the application of creams, lotions, and other topically applied products used by consumers; and products and/or methods related to oral substances that enhance the appearance of hair, skin, and/or nails (human, canine, and/or feline); shaving; a body spray; and fine perfumes such as colognes and perfumes; a composition for treating fabrics, hard surfaces and any other surface in the fabric and home care field comprising: air care, automotive care, dishwashing, fabric conditioning (including softening), laundry detergency, laundry and rinse additive and/or care, hard surface cleaning and/or treatment, and other cleaning for consumer or business use; products related to disposable absorbent and/or non-absorbent articles, including adult incontinence garments, bibs, diapers, training pants, infant and baby care wipes; hand sanitizers, shampoos, lotions, oral care implements, and clothing; products such as wet or dry toilet tissue, facial tissue, disposable handkerchiefs, disposable towels and/or wipes; and related products to catamenial pads, incontinence pads, interlabial pads, pantiliners, pessaries, sanitary napkins, tampons and tampon applicators, and/or wipes.

The consumer product may be a home care product, preferably a cleaning composition, more preferably a cleaning composition in the form of a combined dose article. The container system 1 can contain a home care composition in an interior volume. The home care composition may be selected from a fabric care treatment composition, a dishwashing detergent composition, or mixtures thereof. The consumer product, home care product, and/or home care composition can be in the form of a water-soluble unit dose article.

Non-limiting examples of useful compositions include light duty and heavy duty liquid detergent compositions, hard surface cleaning compositions (such as dish care compositions, including compositions intended for automatic dishwashing), detergent gels commonly used for laundry washing, bleach and laundry additives, shampoos, body washes, and other personal care compositions. The composition may take the form of a liquid, gel, solid, combination dosage article, or mixtures thereof. The liquid composition may comprise a solid. The solids may comprise a powder or agglomerate, such as a microcapsule, a bead, a bar, or one or more pearlescent pellets, or a mixture thereof. Such solid ingredients may provide technical benefits by washing or as a pre-treatment, delayed or sequential release component; additionally or alternatively, it may provide an aesthetic effect.

In some aspects, the composition may comprise one or more of the following non-limiting list of ingredients: an opacifying agent; an antioxidant; a fabric care benefit agent; a detersive enzyme; depositing an auxiliary agent; a rheology modifier; a builder; bleaching agents (bleaching agents); a bleach precursor; a bleach catalyst; a chelating agent; a fragrance; a whitening agent; a pearlescent agent; an enzyme stabilizing system; a scavenger comprising a fixing agent for an anionic dye, a complexing agent for an anionic surfactant, and mixtures thereof; an optical brightener or fluorescent agent; a soil release polymer; a dispersant; a suds suppressor; a dye; a colorant; hydrotropes such as toluene sulfonate, cumene sulfonate and naphthalene sulfonate; colored patches; colored beads, spheres, or extrudates; a clay softener; corrosion inhibitors and/or antitarnish agents; a rinse aid. Additionally or alternatively, the composition may comprise a surfactant and/or a solvent system.

The composition may be a flowable composition capable of being scooped, such as a free-flowing granular or powdered composition. In such cases, the container system 1 may also include a scoop adapted to fit into the container system 1 and scoop the spoonable composition.

The container system 1 described herein may be particularly useful for containing compositions in the form of articles of manufacture. Fig. 29 shows an example of a combination dosage article 600. The article 600 may be adapted to be grasped by an adult human hand. Such articles 600 may have an article width 602 of about 10mm to about 100mm, or about 20mm to about 70mm, or about 35mm to about 55mm, or about 40mm to about 50 mm. If the article 600 is rectangular in shape, the article width 602 is measured as the maximum distance between two parallel sides. When article 600 has a variable width, article width 602 is an average of such widths. Such articles 600 may have a height 604 of about 10mm to about 100mm, or about 15mm to about 70mm, or about 20mm to about 50mm, or about 25mm to about 35 mm. When article 600 has a variable height, article height 604 is measured at the maximum height of the article.

Generally, the container system 1 described herein can be used to hold a composition, typically a cleaning composition, more typically a combined dose (e.g., numbered 15, 25, 50, 66, 77, etc.) of the article 600 of manufacture of a lichen detergent or hard surface treatment composition. The combination dosage article 600 may be a pouch. The pouch may be formed from a water-soluble film 620, such as a polyvinyl alcohol film (including those available from MonoSol, LLC). The film 620 may encapsulate the composition in the compartment. The pouch may comprise a single compartment, or it may comprise multiple compartments 630, 640, 650.

The pouch can contain various compositions that can have different colors visible from the exterior of the pouch. A multi-compartment pouch may contain the same or different compositions in each individual compartment. The compartments may be side-by-side or stacked, for example, with one or two smaller compartments 640, 650 stacked on one larger compartment 630. The multi-compartment feature can be utilized to keep compositions containing incompatible ingredients (e.g., bleach and enzyme) physically separate or isolated from each other. It is believed that such partitioning may extend the useful life and/or reduce the physical instability of such ingredients.

Composition 600 of the combination dose article typically has low levels of water. In some aspects, the composition 600 comprises less than about 50%, or less than about 30%, or less than about 20%, or less than about 15%, or less than about 12%, or less than about 10%, or less than about 8%, or less than 5%, or less than 2%, by weight of the composition 600, of water. In some aspects, the composition 600 comprises from about 0.1% to about 20%, or from about 1% to about 12%, or from about 5% to about 10%, by weight of the composition 600, of water.

Method

The present disclosure relates to methods of assembling and using container systems 1 according to the present disclosure. Descriptions of suitable systems and their features are provided above in greater detail and are fully incorporated herein with respect to the following methods.

The present disclosure relates to a method of assembling a container system 1, wherein a latching system 3 according to the present disclosure is secured to a container body 2 according to the present disclosure.

A method of assembling a container system 1 may include the step of providing a container body 2, the container body 2 including walls 10,11,12,13,14 defining an interior volume 17 and an opening 16 providing access to the interior volume 17. The method may further comprise the step of securing a closure system 3 to the container body 2, said closure system 3 comprising a hinged lid 4 selectively movable between a closed position and an open position. The lid 4 may be effective to block access to the interior volume 17 when in a closed position and to allow access to the interior volume 17 when in an open position.

The latching system 3 of the inventive method may also comprise a locking system. The locking system may comprise a fixing member 30, which is not integral with the body 2 and not integral with the cover 4, said fixing member 30 comprising a first push button 31 and a second push button 32 spaced apart from the first push button 31. The first and second buttons 31,32 may each have a first position. The first and second buttons 31,32 are each movable to a second position. The first and second buttons 31,32 may each be resiliently biased to their respective first positions. The first push button 31 may be operatively connected to a first interlocking member 50 located substantially between the first and second push buttons 31, 32. The first interlocking member 50 is selectively engageable with the complementary locking member 52. When the first locking member 50 and the complementary locking member 52 are engaged, the lid 4 may be held in the closed position. When both the first and second push buttons 31,32 are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, the lid 4 may be moved from the closed position to the open position, causing the first and complementary interlocking members 50, 52 to disengage. The fixation member may also include a second interlocking member 51; the second button 32 is operatively connected to the second interlocking member 51.

The method of assembling the container system 1 may further comprise a filling step. The steps may include providing contents, such as a consumer product (e.g., a water-soluble unit dose article 600, which may comprise a detergent composition), to the interior volume of the container body. The provision of the contents may be performed prior to the step of securing the closure system 3 to the container body 2. Providing the contents before the securing step is performed may be advantageous because the opening 16 of the container body 2 may be relatively larger than the opening of the latching system 3 (e.g., the frame opening 139) when the lid 4 is in the open position. In addition, providing the contents before securing the latching system 3 means that the latching system 3 can be provided with the lid 4 in the closed position, so that the method does not require an additional step of closing the lid 4 after the filling step.

The provision of the contents may also be carried out after the step of securing the closure system 3 to the container body. This may be advantageous because the container system 1 may be assembled, stored, and then filled at a later time and/or at a different location to provide flexibility to the manufacturer.

The present method also relates to methods of using the container system 1 and latching system 3 of the present disclosure. For example, the present disclosure relates to a method of accessing an interior volume 17 of a container system 1. The container system 1 includes a securing member 30 as described herein. The method comprises the following steps: the first and second push buttons 31,32 of the securing member 30, which may be located on the frame 5, are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, thereby disengaging the interlocking members 50,51 of the securing member 30 from the complementary interlocking members 52,53 present at other locations on the container system 1, such as on the lid 4. The disengagement allows the lid 4 to move from the closed position to the open position. Biasing system 60, which may include a resilient member 61, may urge lid 4 toward the open position. The step of moving the first and second buttons 31,32 from their respective first positions to their respective second positions may be performed with a single hand, for example by placing a finger on each button and squeezing. The button may be sized, configured and positioned to facilitate use with a single hand, preferably an adult hand.

Combination of

Specifically contemplated combinations of the present disclosure are described herein in the following alphabetic paragraphs. These combinations are exemplary in nature and not limiting.

A. A container system, comprising: a container body including a wall defining an interior volume and an opening providing access to the interior volume; a latching system comprising a hinged cover selectively movable between a closed position covering the opening and an open position allowing access to the interior volume, wherein the hinged cover remains in the closed position when at least a first interlocking member is engaged with a complementary interlocking member; and a securing member that is non-integral with the body and non-integral with the lid, the securing member comprising a first button and a second button spaced from but engaged to the first button, each of the first and second buttons being biased to a respective first position and each being movable to a respective second position, wherein when the first and second buttons are simultaneously in their respective second positions, the lid is movable from the closed position to an open position in that at least the first interlocking member is disengaged from the complementary interlocking member.

B. The container system of paragraph a, wherein the container system further comprises a frame connectable to the container body and hingeably connected to the lid, wherein the securing member is also not integral with the frame.

C. The container system according to any of paragraphs a to B, wherein the securing member is secured to the lid, the body or the frame, preferably the frame.

D. The container system of any of paragraphs a through C, wherein the first button and the second button are spaced apart by a distance of about 50mm to about 150mm when in the respective first positions.

E. The container system according to any of paragraphs a-D, wherein a distance between the first button and the second button when the buttons are each in the respective second position is less than a distance between the buttons when the buttons are each in the respective first position.

F. The container system of any of paragraphs a through E, wherein the first button and the second button are both proximate a front wall of the container body.

G. The container system according to any of paragraphs a through F, wherein the securing member is substantially parallel to a hinge axis about which the hinge cover is rotatable open.

H. The container system according to any of paragraphs a to G, wherein the spring system resiliently biases the first button and the second button to their respective first positions.

I. The container system according to any of paragraphs a to H, wherein the spring system resiliently biases the first button to its first position and the second button independently resiliently biases to its first position.

J. The container system according to any of paragraphs a to I, wherein the spring system is part of the securing member, preferably an integrally formed part thereof.

K. The container system according to any of paragraphs a through G, wherein the spring system comprises a flexible plastic.

L. the container system of any of paragraphs a through K, wherein the spring system is substantially in the shape of any of the letters M, N, S, U, V or W.

M. the container system of any of paragraphs a-L, wherein moving the first button and the second button from the first position and the second position, respectively, does not deform the lid or the body.

N. the container system according to any of paragraphs a-M, wherein the second button is operably connected to the second interlocking member.

O. the container system according to any of paragraphs a to N, wherein the first member and the second member each comprise an outer edge, wherein the distance between the outer edge of the first interlocking member and the outer edge of the second interlocking member is about 10mm to about 60mm, preferably about 10mm to about 40mm, more preferably about 10mm to about 25mm, when the first button and the second button are in their respective first positions.

P. the container system according to any of paragraphs a to O, wherein the first interlocking member is located between the first button and the second interlocking member.

O. the container system according to any of paragraphs a to P, wherein the second interlocking member is located between the first interlocking member and the second button.

R. the container system of any of paragraphs a through Q, wherein the second interlocking member is selectively engageable with a second complementary locking member, wherein moving the first button from its respective first position to its respective second position causes the first locking member and the first complementary locking member to disengage, and wherein moving the second button from its respective first position to its respective second position causes the second locking member and the second complementary locking member to disengage.

S. the container system according to any of paragraphs a-R, wherein the securing member comprises an intermediate portion between the first button and the first interlocking member, the intermediate portion comprising a connector portion configured to facilitate connection of the securing member to the main body and/or latching system.

T. the container system according to any of paragraphs a to S, wherein the container system comprises a biasing system that biases the lid towards the open position.

U. the container system according to any of paragraphs a to T, wherein the biasing system comprises a resilient member.

V. the container system according to any of paragraphs a to U, wherein a protrusion on the latching system (preferably on the lid) elastically deforms the resilient member when the lid is in the closed position.

W. the container system according to any of paragraphs a to V, wherein the internal volume comprises contents selected from the group consisting of: consumer products, pesticides, paints, solvents, industrial chemicals, industrial hardware, pharmaceuticals, pills, food products, and combinations thereof, preferably consumer products, more preferably home care products.

X. the container system of any of paragraphs a through W, wherein the contents comprise a consumer product comprising a home care product, wherein the home care product comprises a home care composition selected from the group consisting of: a fabric care treatment composition, a dishwashing detergent composition, or mixtures thereof.

Y. the container system according to any of paragraphs a to X, wherein the contents comprise a consumer product in the form of a water-soluble unit dose article.

Z. a method of opening a container system according to any of paragraphs a to Y, the method comprising the steps of: providing a container system according to any of paragraphs a to X, moving the first button and the second button so that the buttons are simultaneously in their respective second positions, opening the hinged lid, and optionally accessing the contents stored in the interior volume.

A closure system adapted for attachment to an open end of a container body, the closure system comprising a lid, a frame and a securing member, the frame configured to be attached to the open end of the container body, the frame having an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter, the inner perimeter defining a frame opening; the cover being hingedly connected to the frame, the cover being selectively movable between a closed position and an open position, the cover being effective to cover the frame opening when in the closed position and being effective to allow access through the frame opening when in the open position; a securing member that is non-integral with the frame and non-integral with the cover, the securing member connected with at least one of the frame and/or the cover, the securing member comprising a first button and a second button spaced apart from the first button, the first button and the second button each movable from a respective first position to a respective second position, the first button and the second button each resiliently biased to a respective first position, the first button operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first button and the second button, wherein the first interlocking member is selectively engaged with a complementary locking member, wherein the cover is retained in the closed position when the first locking member and the complementary locking member are engaged, and wherein the first button and the second button are retained in the closed position when moved from the respective first position to the respective second position, the cover is movable from the closed position to the open position, causing the first locking member to disengage from a complementary locking member.

BB. the latching system according to paragraph AA, wherein the second button is operatively connected to a second interlocking member located substantially between the first button and the second button, wherein the second interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, preferably a second complementary locking member.

A latching system according to any of paragraphs AA to BB, wherein the securing member is connected to the frame, and wherein the complementary locking member is located on the cover.

DD. a container system, comprising: a container body including a wall defining an interior volume and an opening providing access to the interior volume; a closure system including a hinged lid selectively movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein the lid effectively blocks access to an interior volume when in the closed position and effectively permits access to the interior volume when in the open position; a locking system comprising a securing member that is non-integral with the body and non-integral with a cover, the solid member comprising a first button and a second button spaced apart from the first button, the first button and the second button each having a first position, the first button and the second button each being movable to a second position, the first button and the second button each being resiliently biased to their respective first positions, and the first button being operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first button and the second button, wherein the first interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, wherein when the first interlocking member and complementary interlocking member are engaged, the cover is retained in the closed position, and wherein when both the first button and second button are moved from respective first positions to respective second positions, the cover is movable from the closed position to the open position, causing the first interlocking member to disengage from the complementary locking member.

A method of assembling a container system (e.g., a container system according to any of paragraphs a-Z), the method comprising the steps of: providing a container body comprising a wall defining an interior volume and an opening providing access to the interior volume; securing a closure system to the container body, the closure system including a hinged lid selectively movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein the lid effectively blocks access to an interior volume when in the closed position and effectively permits access to an interior volume when in the open position; the latching system further includes a locking system comprising: a securing member that is non-integral with the body and non-integral with the lid, the solid member comprising a first button and a second button spaced apart from the first button, the first button and the second button each having a first position, the first button and the second button each being movable to a second position, the first button and the second button each being resiliently biased to their respective first positions, and the first button being operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first button and the second button, wherein the first interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, wherein the lid is retained in the closed position when the first locking member and the complementary locking member are engaged, and wherein when both the first button and the second button are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, the cover is movable from the closed position to the open position, causing the first locking member to disengage from the complementary locking member.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

Each document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or patent application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or its benefits, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with any disclosure of the invention or the claims herein or that it alone, or in combination with any one or more of the references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims (22)

1. A container system, the container system comprising:

a container body including a wall defining an interior volume and an opening providing access to the interior volume;

a closure system including a hinged lid selectively movable between a closed position covering the opening and an open position allowing access to the interior volume;

wherein the hinge cover is retained in the closed position when at least a first interlocking member is engaged with a first complementary interlocking member; and

a securing member that is not integral with the container body and is not integral with the lid,

the securing member includes a first button and a second button spaced from but joined to the first button,

the first button and the second button are each biased to a respective first position, and are each movable to a respective second position,

wherein the cover is movable from the closed position to an open position when the first button and the second button are simultaneously in their respective second positions in that at least the first interlocking member is disengaged from the first complementary interlocking member,

wherein the container system further comprises a second interlocking member, and the first interlocking member and the second interlocking member each comprise an outer edge, wherein a distance between the outer edge of the first interlocking member and the outer edge of the second interlocking member is 10mm to 60mm when the first button and the second button are in their respective first positions.

2. The container system according to claim 1, wherein the container system further comprises a frame connectable to the container body and hingeably connected to the lid, wherein the securing member is also not integral with the frame.

3. The container system according to claim 1, wherein the first button and the second button are spaced apart by a distance of 50mm to 150mm when in the respective first positions.

4. The container system according to claim 1, wherein a distance between the first button and the second button when the buttons are each in the respective second position is less than a distance between the buttons when the buttons are each in the respective first position.

5. The container system of claim 1, wherein the first button and the second button are both proximate a front wall of the container body.

6. A container system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the securing member is substantially parallel to a hinge axis about which the hinge cover is rotatable open.

7. The container system according to claim 1, wherein a spring system resiliently biases the first and second buttons to their respective first positions.

8. The container system according to claim 7, wherein the spring system is part of the securing member.

9. The container system according to claim 7, wherein the spring system is an integrally formed part of the securing member.

10. The container system of claim 1, wherein moving the first button and the second button from the first position and the second position, respectively, does not deform the lid or the container body.

11. The container system according to claim 1, wherein the second button is operably connected to the second interlocking member.

12. The container system according to claim 1, wherein the first interlocking member is located between the first button and the second interlocking member.

13. The container system according to claim 12, wherein the second interlocking member is located between the first interlocking member and the second button.

14. The container system in accordance with claim 1,

wherein the second interlocking member is selectively engageable with a second complementary locking member,

wherein moving the first button from its respective first position to its respective second position causes the first interlocking member and the first complementary interlocking member to disengage, an

Wherein moving the second button from its respective first position to its respective second position causes the second interlocking member and the second complementary interlocking member to disengage.

15. The container system of claim 1, wherein the container system comprises a biasing system that biases the lid toward the open position.

16. The container system according to claim 15, wherein the biasing system comprises a resilient member.

17. The container system according to claim 16, wherein a protrusion on the latching system elastically deforms the resilient member when the lid is in the closed position.

18. The container system according to any one of claims 1-17, wherein the interior volume comprises contents selected from the group consisting of: consumer products, industrial chemicals, industrial hardware, pharmaceuticals, and combinations thereof.

19. The container system of claim 18, wherein the contents are consumer products.

20. The container system of claim 19, wherein the consumer product is a home care product.

21. The container system of claim 20, wherein the home care product comprises a home care composition selected from the group consisting of: a fabric care treatment composition, a dishwashing detergent composition, or mixtures thereof, optionally wherein the home care product is in the form of a water-soluble unit dose article.

22. The container system according to any one of claims 1-17, wherein the interior volume comprises contents selected from the group consisting of: insecticides, paints, solvents, pills, food products, and combinations thereof.

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