CN114173739A

CN114173739A - Child-resistant and airtight container

Info

Publication number: CN114173739A
Application number: CN201980098461.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: S·克诺贝尔; M·海斯; A·冈萨雷斯
Original assignee: Cr Packaging Co ltd
Current assignee: Cr Packaging Co ltd
Priority date: 2019-05-17
Filing date: 2019-05-17
Publication date: 2022-03-11
Also published as: EP3968933A1; WO2020236134A1; CA3140974A1; EP3968933A4

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a modular container system having a child-resistant container, a pallet insert, and a pallet rack. Also disclosed are methods of using the modular container system and methods of storing a substance within a container. The container has a container base and a container lid and is provided for a child-resistant container. The user can releasably remove the container lid from the container base in a squeeze and lift sequence. For example, a user squeezes the opposite side of the container base, releasing the locking mechanism and allowing the lid to be removed by lifting or pulling the container lid from the container base. The components of the modular container system are modular and stackable. The modular system allows organized, efficient access and storage of child-resistant containers. The modular container system also allows the containers to be easily counted, sorted, and handled.

Description

Child-resistant and airtight container

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a modular container system useful in storage and inventory systems, including child-resistant containers and methods of using the same.

Background

Containers for storing substances or materials that are harmful to children are typically designed to prevent opening by children, but may be manipulated by adults, including the elderly, to access the substances. These "child-resistant" containers are commonly used for over-the-counter and prescription medications. Other child-resistant containers are used for other household items that are toxic if swallowed or ingested, such as laundry detergents and cleaners. These systems are provided to prevent children from inadvertently accessing the contents of these containers.

Typically, child-resistant containers include a multi-step opening process or multiple steps that need to be completed simultaneously. Opening such containers requires a degree of mental and physical dexterity that makes it difficult for children to access the contents therein. For example, such containers are opened using a certain amount of pressure or force while the second action is required, thus preventing a child from being able to open and access the contents of the container.

One challenge in making child-resistant containers is making the containers sufficiently easy for the elderly and others to use. For example, some child-resistant containers provide screw-on caps or pop-up closures, which, while effective for child-resistance, cause some degree of difficulty for patients with inflamed wrist and finger joints or arthritis.

Currently available child-resistant containers are also often inadequate to protect the contents from degradation upon exposure to environmental factors, including, for example, moisture, temperature, bacteria, or air.

In addition, most screw-top medicine containers lack external features that facilitate counting, sorting, and stacking, as well as lack efficient inventory management.

In view of the foregoing, there remains a need for improved containers and systems that are easy to use by the elderly or disabled while providing child-resistant features. Furthermore, there remains a need for a container whose contents are protected to improve shelf life, such as liquid-tight, gas-tight, or both. Finally, there remains a need for containers that can accommodate efficient stacking and can be part of a larger storage and inventory system. These features allow the container to be used for automation in packaging and distribution centers. The containers are part of a storage system that may allow for ease of storage, inventory reconciliation, and bulk distribution.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure relates to a modular container system. The modular container system generally has a pallet rack, a pallet insert, and a container. The components of the modular container system, as well as the system itself, are modular, including components that can be stacked on top of each other, or a combination of stackable components. The modular container system can be used as an inventory system.

The containers described herein can be components of a modular container system. Embodiments of the container are configured to be child-resistant. The disclosed containers provide improved packaging and storage of substances or materials in a controlled environment, providing an environment such as airtight, liquid-tight, water-tight, humidity-controlled, light-controlled, or any combination thereof.

Accordingly, in one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a container comprising a base, a lid, and a hinge. The base includes a closed bottom end, a neck having an open top end, and a cap engagement element on a first side of the neck. The cover includes a base engagement element on an inner surface of the cover, wherein the base engagement element is configured to engage with the cover engagement element. A hinge attaches the base to the lid.

In certain aspects, the container further comprises one or more ramps located on an outer surface of the base.

In some aspects, the two bevels are located on a second side of the neck and the two bevels are located on a third side of the neck, wherein the second and third sides are opposite one another.

In certain aspects, the container is a child-resistant tubular container.

In certain aspects, the base, lid, hinge, or combination thereof comprises plastic.

In certain aspects, the container further comprises an annular sealing ring on the inner surface of the lid.

In certain aspects, the container further comprises a seat that positions the annular sealing ring within the cap.

In certain aspects, the container is substantially airtight, liquid-tight, water-tight, humidity-controlled, light-controlled (e.g., light-resistant to UV), or any combination thereof.

In certain aspects, the tubular container has a length of about 20mm to about 500 mm. In other aspects, the tubular container has a length of about 50mm to about 200 mm.

In certain aspects, the aspect ratio is from about 2:1 to about 15: 1. In other aspects, the aspect ratio is about 3:1 to about 12: 1.

In certain aspects, the hinge positions the cover at one or more locations relative to the base. In some aspects, the hinge positions the cover between 20 degrees and 140 degrees relative to the base.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method of implementing a container, the method comprising providing a container comprising a base, a hinge, and a lid, wherein the base comprises a closed bottom end, a neck having an open top end, and a lid engagement element, wherein the lid engagement element is disposed on an outer surface of the neck, wherein the lid comprises a base engagement element configured to couple with the lid engagement element, and moving the lid over the open end of the base, wherein the lid engagement element is coupled to the base engagement element or engaged with the base engagement assembly.

In certain aspects, the base further comprises a radially extending flange disposed on an outer surface of the base below the cap engagement element.

In certain aspects, the base further comprises one or more ramps disposed on an outer surface of the base.

In certain aspects, the method further comprises removing the lid by simultaneously applying an external force to the back of the lid and lifting the lid from the base.

In certain aspects, the method further comprises storing the consumable product, the pharmaceutical product, the nutraceutical product, the herbal material, the food product, the animal-based product, or the plant-based product in a container.

Accordingly, in another aspect, the present invention is directed to a modular container system. The modular container system includes a tray rack, a tray insert, and one or more child-resistant containers. The tray rack is sized and configured to receive a tray insert. The one or more child-resistant containers include a container base and a container lid with a hinge for tethering the base to the lid. In certain embodiments, the container lid can further comprise an annular sealing ring on an inner surface of the container lid.

In some embodiments, the tray insert is sized and configured to receive the one or more child-resistant containers. The tray insert also includes a plurality of recessed portions, wherein each recessed portion is configured to receive a single child-resistant container. Each recessed portion contains an identifying mark. For example, the identification mark is a number. The plurality of recessed portions are consecutively numbered, labeled or marked.

In certain embodiments, the tray insert has 1, 2, 4, 9, 16, 20, 25, 36, 42, 64, 81, 100, 121, or 144 recessed portions having a configuration of 1x1, 2x2, 3x3, 4x4, 5x5, 6x6, 7x7, 8x8, 9x9, 10x10, 11x11, or 12x 12.

In certain embodiments, the tray insert comprises a first locking mechanism disposed on a first side of the tray insert and a second locking mechanism disposed on a second side of the tray insert. The first and second locking mechanisms include male and female connectors such that the tray insert is configured to reversibly connect to a second tray insert. In certain embodiments, the tray insert comprises one or more locking mechanisms. The tray insert can, for example, have 1, 2, 3, 4 or more locking mechanisms.

In certain embodiments, a tray insert is configured to nest on top of another tray insert. The tray insert is also configured to stack on top of another tray insert having containers in substantially all of the recessed portions.

In certain embodiments, the receptacle into which the tray is inserted is plastic, recyclable material, or other suitable material. For example, the plastic is polypropylene, fluorinated ethylene propylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polystyrene, high impact polystyrene, or polyvinyl chloride.

Other materials or additives can be added to the container or tray insert. For example, the container and/or tray insert further comprises an antimicrobial additive.

In some embodiments, the tray support is made of cardboard, plastic, glass, recyclable materials, or a combination thereof.

In certain embodiments, the modular container system can include a tamper-evident element. For example, the tamper evident element is a seal, tape, or a combination thereof. Also, the modular container system can contain RFID tags.

In certain embodiments, each tray rack, tray insert, one or more child-resistant containers, or a combination thereof can contain a writing surface compatible with a pen, pencil, or marker.

In certain embodiments, the container base, the container lid, the hinge, or a combination thereof comprises a polymer. For example, the polymer comprises polypropylene, polypropylene copolymer, ultraclarified polypropylene, colored polypropylene, PET, PETE, polycarbonate, polystyrene, or a combination thereof.

In certain embodiments, the container lid further comprises an annular ring (e.g., an O-ring) on the inner surface of the top end of the lid. The annular ring assists in sealing the container. In certain embodiments, the child-resistant container is substantially air-tight, liquid-tight, light-resistant, temperature-resistant, moisture-resistant, antimicrobial, tamper-evident, or a combination thereof.

In certain embodiments, the method of effecting a child-resistant closure of a container further comprises removing the container lid by simultaneously applying an external compressive force of about 2 to about 6 pounds to opposing sides of the container base and pulling the container lid away from the container base.

Additional aspects of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows. The advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

Drawings

Features and advantages of the claimed subject matter will become apparent from the following description of embodiments consistent therewith, which description should be considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert for a tubular container.

Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert for a 15D container.

Fig. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert for a 45D container.

Fig. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert of a 145D container.

Fig. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert for a 25D container.

Fig. 6A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of the 25D tray insert of fig. 5. Fig. 6B illustrates a top view of an embodiment of two tray inserts for a 25D container. Fig. 6C illustrates a top view of an embodiment in which two trays for a 25D container are inserted in the locked configuration.

Fig. 7A illustrates a top view of an embodiment in which three tray inserts for a 25D container are arranged in a single row. Fig. 7B illustrates a top view of an embodiment in which three tray inserts for a 25D container are arranged in a single row. Fig. 7C illustrates a top view of an embodiment in which three tray inserts for a 25D container are arranged in a single row. Fig. 7D illustrates a top view of the embodiment of fig. 7A-7C in which the nine pallet inserts are arranged in a 3x3 square pattern. FIG. 7E illustrates a top view of an embodiment of eight tray inserts configured in a donut configuration.

Fig. 8A illustrates a bottom view of the 25D tray insert embodiment of fig. 5. Fig. 8B illustrates a front view of the 25D tray insert embodiment of fig. 5.

Fig. 9 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the 25D tray insert of fig. 5.

Fig. 10 illustrates a top view of the 25D pallet insert embodiment of fig. 5 in an embodiment of a pallet rack.

Fig. 11A illustrates a side view of a child-resistant tubular container. Fig. 11B illustrates a side view of the 15D child-resistant container. Fig. 11C illustrates a side view of a 25D child-resistant container. Fig. 11D illustrates a side view of a 45D child-resistant container. Fig. 11E illustrates a side view of the 145D child-resistant container.

Fig. 12A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a child-resistant tubular container having a base and a lid in an open state. Fig. 12B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a child-resistant tubular container having a base and a lid in an open state. Fig. 12C illustrates another perspective view of the embodiment of the child-resistant tubular container of fig. 12B. Fig. 12D illustrates a side view of the embodiment of the child-resistant tubular container of fig. 12B. Fig. 12E illustrates a front view of the embodiment of the child-resistant tubular container of fig. 12B. Fig. 12F illustrates a top view of the embodiment of the child-resistant tubular container of fig. 12B. Fig. 12G illustrates a bottom view of the embodiment of the child-resistant tubular container of fig. 12B. Fig. 12H illustrates a front view of the embodiment of the child-resistant tubular container of fig. 12B.

Fig. 13A illustrates an exploded view of the child-resistant container base and container lid. Fig. 13B illustrates a child-resistant container having a container base and container lid in a closed configuration. Fig. 13C illustrates a side view of a child-resistant container having a container base and container lid in a closed configuration.

Fig. 13D illustrates a side view of a child-resistant container having a container base and container lid in a closed configuration. Fig. 13E illustrates a bottom view of the container base. Fig. 13F illustrates a top view of the container base.

Fig. 14A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a container base. Fig. 14B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a container base.

Fig. 15A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a container lid. Fig. 15B illustrates a bottom view of an embodiment of a container lid. Fig. 15C illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a container lid.

Fig. 16A is a perspective view of two child-resistant containers stacked on top of each other. Fig. 16B is a side view of two child-resistant containers stacked on top of each other.

Fig. 17 illustrates an embodiment of a container base on top of a container lid.

Fig. 18 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert in a 10x10 configuration filled with an embodiment of a child-resistant container.

Fig. 19 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a tray insert in a 6x6 configuration filled with an embodiment of a child-resistant container.

Fig. 20 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a tray insert in a 4x4 configuration partially enclosing another embodiment of a child-resistant container.

Fig. 21 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a tray insert filled with another embodiment of a child-resistant container in a 3x3 configuration.

Fig. 22 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a tray insert filled with another embodiment of a child-resistant container in a 5x5 configuration.

Fig. 23 illustrates a perspective view of the tray insert of the embodiment of fig. 22 filled with child-resistant containers stacked on another tray insert filled with child-resistant containers, each in a 5x5 configuration.

Fig. 24A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a tray insert in a 5x5 configuration partially enclosing an embodiment of a child-resistant container. Fig. 24B illustrates a top view of an embodiment of two tray inserts, each partially enclosing an embodiment of a child-resistant container, the tray inserts being in a 1x2 configuration. Fig. 24C illustrates a top view of an embodiment when two tray inserts are locked, each partially enclosing an embodiment of a child-resistant container, the tray inserts being in a 1x2 configuration. Fig. 24D illustrates a top view of an embodiment of four tray inserts, each partially enclosing an embodiment of a child-resistant container, in a 2x2 configuration.

Fig. 25A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a tray insert with an embodiment of a child-resistant container in a 5x5 configuration. Fig. 25B illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a tray insert with an embodiment of a child-resistant container in a 5x5 configuration. Fig. 25C illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a tray insert with an embodiment of a child-resistant container in a 5x5 configuration.

Fig. 26 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a tray rack on top of another tray rack.

Fig. 27 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray rack stacked on top of another tray rack.

Fig. 28 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a modular container system with a tray rack, a tray insert, and a child-resistant container.

Fig. 29 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a modular container system with a tray rack, a tray insert, and a child-resistant container.

Fig. 30 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a modular container system with a tray rack, a tray insert, and a child-resistant container.

Fig. 31 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a modular container system with a tray rack, a tray insert, and a child-resistant container.

Fig. 32 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a modular container system with a tray rack, a tray insert, and a child-resistant container.

Fig. 33 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a modular container system with a tray rack, a tray insert, and a child-resistant tubular container.

Fig. 34A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a stacked modular container system having 5 tray racks each having a tray insert filled with an embodiment of a child-resistant container. Fig. 34B is a side view of the stacked modular container system of fig. 34A. Fig. 34C is another side view of the stacked modular container system of fig. 34A. Fig. 34D is a cross-sectional view of the stacked modular container system of fig. 34A.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure relates to modular container systems including tray racks (tray frames), tray inserts (tray inserts), and/or child-resistant containers. Aspects of the present disclosure also include a storage system and an inventory system. Other aspects include methods of using child-resistant containers (e.g., to create child-resistance and to store or retain materials). The modular container system can be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description of the invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "an element" includes two or more elements.

Ranges may be expressed herein as from one particular value and/or to another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. It will also be understood that a plurality of values are disclosed herein, and that each value is also disclosed herein as "about" that particular value, in addition to the value itself. For example, if the value "10" is disclosed, then "about 10" is also disclosed. It is also understood that each unit between two particular units is also disclosed. For example, if 10 and 15 are disclosed, then 11, 12, 13 and 14 are also disclosed.

As used herein, the terms "about" and "equal to or about" mean that the amount or value in question may be a value that is specified to be approximately or approximately the same as some other value. It is generally understood that, as used herein, unless otherwise specified or inferred, it is a nominal value indicating a ± 10% change. The term is intended to convey that similar values promote equivalent results or effects recited in the claims. That is, it is to be understood that quantities, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger or smaller, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, as desired, and other factors known to those of skill in the art. Generally, an amount, size, formulation, parameter or other quantity or characteristic is "about" or "approximately" whether or not explicitly stated to be so. It is understood that when "about" is used before a quantitative value, the parameter also includes the specific quantitative value itself, unless specifically stated otherwise.

The terms "first," "second," "first portion," "second portion," and the like, as used herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, and are used to distinguish one element from another unless specifically stated otherwise.

As used herein, the terms "optional" or "optionally" mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance can or cannot occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. For example, the phrase "optionally secured to a surface" means that it may or may not be secured to a surface.

Moreover, it should be understood that, unless explicitly stated otherwise, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a particular order. Accordingly, if a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is no way intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This applies to any possible non-explicit basis for interpretation, including logistical issues with respect to step arrangements or operational flows; simple meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of aspects described in the specification.

It should be understood that the modular container systems, materials, and devices disclosed herein have certain functionalities. Disclosed herein are certain structural requirements for performing the disclosed functions, and it is understood that there are a variety of structures that can perform the same functions associated with the disclosed structures, and that these structures will typically achieve the same results.

Modular container system

The modular container system disclosed herein generally has a pallet rack, a pallet insert, and a container. The components or assemblies of the modular container system, as well as the system itself, are modular. The components are stackable-they can be stacked on top of each other, or can be combined with other components of the system. The modular container system can be used as an inventory system.

Tray insert

In certain aspects of the present disclosure, the modular container system includes a tray insert. Referring to fig. 1-10, the pallet insert is sized and configured to fit within a pallet rack (described in detail below). Also, the tray insert is configured to specifically receive embodiments of the child-resistant container (described in detail below). The tray insert is also contemplated to be able to accommodate more than one type (e.g., size) of child-resistant container. As described herein, the tray insert can have any number of recessed portions (i.e., the number of child-resistant containers that can be retained). For example, a tray having 1 to 144 recessed portions. The tray insert can have 1, 2, 4, 9, 16, 20, 25, 36, 42, 64, 81, 100, 121, or 144 depressions symmetrically arranged in, for example, a 1x1, 2x2, 3x3, 4x4, 5x5, 6x6, 7x7, 8x8, 9x9, 10x10, 11x11, or 12x12 configuration. The tray insert can have recessed portions arranged asymmetrically, for example, in 1x2, 2x3, 3x4, 4x5, 5x6, 6x7, 7x8, 8x9, 9x10, or another configuration.

The tray insert has substantially the same planar area (footprint) regardless of the size of the container designed to be received therein. The tray insert has substantially the same area (width multiplied by length) for each container size. The tray insert can also have substantially the same depth for each container size.

Referring to fig. 1, the tray insert 100 has a plurality of recess portions 110. Each recessed portion 110 can include an identifying indicia 111 to facilitate the inventory method disclosed herein. For example, the identifying indicia 111 can be letters, numbers, or other symbols. The tray insert 100 also has a first locking mechanism 120 and a second locking mechanism 130. Each

locking mechanism

120, 130 has a

male connector

121, 131 and a

female connector

122, 132. The

locking mechanism

120, 130 is disposed at one side of the tray insert 100 and can mate with another tray insert 100 (or, for example, tray inserts 200, 300, 400, or 500). The locking

mechanisms

120, 130 arranged in this manner cause the tray insert to have to be guided to such a position to be able to fit another tray insert. The tray insert 100 is a 10x10 configuration with 100 recessed portions sized to receive an embodiment of a tubular container (described in detail below). The recess 110 is sized and configured to frictionally fit (split fit) the tubular container so that the tubular container does not fall out even after the tray is inserted.

Similarly, the tray insert 200 of fig. 2 has a plurality of recessed portions 210, each having an identification mark 211. The identification mark 211 is a number displayed at the bottom of each concave portion 210. The locking

mechanisms

220, 230 are disposed on opposite sides of the tray insert 200 and are capable of mating with another

tray insert

100, 200, 300, 400, or 500 (fig. 1-5). Although male and

female connectors

221, 222 are shown here; 231. 232, but other locking or engagement means can be used, such as rail-type systems, adhesives, glues,

Hook and loop fasteners, snap-fit mechanisms, pull rings, connectors, and the like. The tray insert 200 has a 6x6 configuration with 36 recessed portions 210. Each recessed portion 210 is sized and configured to receive an embodiment of a child-resistant container, such as a 15D container. The recessed portion 210 is sized and configured to frictionally fit the 15D container so that the 15D container does not fall out even after the tray is inserted upside down.

The tray insert 300 of fig. 3 has a 4x4 configuration sized to receive another embodiment of a child-resistant container (e.g., a 45D container). The tray insert 400 of fig. 4 has a 3x3 configuration sized to receive another embodiment of a child-resistant container (e.g., 145D container). The tray insert 500 of fig. 5 has a 5x5 configuration sized to receive another embodiment of a child-resistant container (e.g., a 25D container). Fig. 1-5 show various embodiments of tray inserts configured to fit a variety of child-resistant containers and tube containers. However, other configurations are also contemplated, including the use of more than one type of child-resistant container for a single tray insert.

The tray inserts of fig. 1-5 all have a universal locking mechanism that allows any type of tray insert to fit within the recess regardless of the size of the recess. To this end, the tray inserts 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 are substantially similar or equal in height, length, and/or width for such mating. The locking mechanisms 120/130, 220/230, 320/330, 420/430, 520/530 are placed on opposite sides of the tray insert (e.g., one on the left and one on the right). Other configurations and arrangements of the locking mechanism are also contemplated. For example, 1, 2, 3 or 4 locking mechanisms can be configured on a pallet plug. There can be one or more locking mechanisms on each side (e.g., left, right, top, and bottom sides) of the tray insert. A single locking mechanism can include one or more components or subassemblies, such as a male and female connector. Fig. 1 to 5 each show an embodiment with two locking mechanisms, one on the left side and one on the right side of the tray insert.

Fig. 6A to 6C and 8A to 9 show further views of the tray insert 500 as shown in fig. 5. An identification mark 511 is shown in each of the recessed portions 510. The identification mark 511 is a continuous number in order from number 0, starting from left to right, from top to bottom, from top to top left, and ending at number 24. However, other sequential numbering methods are also contemplated. For example, the numbers can be consecutive numbers starting from 0, starting from top to bottom and starting from top left, such that the pallet insert 500 has 25 recessed portions. When the tray insert 500 is fully filled with child-resistant containers, each identification mark is covered by an individual container. Once the container is removed from the tray, the identifying indicia 511 becomes visible. The number of remaining containers can be easily counted by removing the containers starting from the reverse order (i.e. starting at the lower right and moving right to left, bottom to top). For example, if a single container is removed from the lower right position of the tray insert 500, the identifying indicia 511 "24" will appear while the user knows that 24 containers remain in the tray insert 500.

Referring to fig. 6A, the tray insert 500 has locking

mechanisms

520, 530, the locking

mechanisms

520, 530 having

male connectors

521, 531 and

female connectors

522, 532. The locking mechanism 520 is located on the right side of the tray insert 500 and the locking mechanism 530 is located on the left side of the tray insert 500. The tray insert 500 has 25 recessed portions 510 configured to friction fit a 25D container.

As shown in fig. 6B and 6C, tray insert 500A is configured to attach to and connect to another tray insert 500B. The tray insert 500A is in close proximity to the tray insert 500B, wherein the locking mechanism 520 with the male 521 and female 522 connectors on the tray insert 500A can connect to the corresponding locking mechanism 500B with the male 531 and female 532 connectors on the tray insert 500B. Fig. 6C shows the locked configuration when the tray inserts 500A and 500B are connected. Tray insert 500A can be removed from tray insert 500B by lifting one tray insert relative to the other, disengaging

locking mechanisms

520 and 530 from each other.

Fig. 7A to 7C show another embodiment of how the trays are interconnected to each other. The tray inserts can be combined into a 3x3 grid and can be combined into any shape or pattern based on the configuration of the locking mechanism. The tray inserts 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708, 709 have sides 710A (top side), 710B (right side), 710C (bottom side), 710D (left side). Side 710A (top side) has a locking mechanism 720. Side 710B (right side) has a locking mechanism 730. Side 710C (bottom side) has a locking mechanism 740. Side 710D (left side) has a locking mechanism 750. Each locking mechanism has a male connector and a female connector. For example, the locking mechanism 720 has a male connector 721 and a female connector 722. The locking mechanism 730 has a male connector 731 and a female connector 732. The locking mechanism 740 has a male connector 741 and a female connector 742. The locking mechanism 750 has a male connector 751 and a female connector 752. Although a male-female type connector is shown, other locking or engagement means can be used, such as a track type system, adhesives, glues, adhesives, and the like,

Hook and loop fasteners, snap mechanisms, pull rings, connectors, and the like.

In fig. 7A to 7C, tray inserts 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708, 709 form a 3x3 grid (shown in fig. 7D). To configure this mode, the locking mechanism on each tray insert is different. Referring to fig. 7A, the tray insert 701 has locking

mechanisms

730 and 740. The tray insert 702 has locking

mechanisms

720, 730, and 740. The tray insert 703 has locking

mechanisms

720 and 730.

Referring to fig. 7B, tray insert 704 has locking

mechanisms

730, 740, and 750. The tray insert 705 has locking

mechanisms

720, 730, 740, and 750 (i.e., on all sides of the tray insert). The tray insert 706 has locking

mechanisms

720, 730, and 750.

Referring to fig. 7C, the tray insert 707 has locking

mechanisms

740 and 750. The tray insert 708 has locking

mechanisms

720, 740, and 750. Tray insert 709 has locking

mechanisms

720 and 750.

Various configurations of tray inserts 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708, 709 can be used to form tray inserts. The tray inserts 701, 703, 707, and 709 form "corners" in any arrangement. Zero, one, or more arbitrary tray inserts 702, 704, 705, 706, and 708 can be used to construct and configure any desired shape or pattern. One configuration can have 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 or more tray inserts. The configuration of the tray inserts can be arranged in a square (e.g., 2x2, 3x3, 4x4, 5x5, 6x6, 7x7, 8x8, etc.), a rectangle (e.g., 1x2, 1x3, 1x4, 1x5, 2x3, 2x4, 2x5, 3x4, 3x5), or any pattern. For example, a "donut" configuration with a hollow structure can be formed by using a pattern of 3x2x 3. See fig. 7E.

Referring to fig. 8A and 9, the tray insert 500 has

male connectors

521 and 531 and

female connectors

522 and 532. The

connectors

521, 522 form the locking mechanism 520 and the

connectors

531, 532 form the locking mechanism 530.

Non-slip material can be added or incorporated into the bottom of the tray insert 500. The non-slip material can be tape, fabric, tape, adhesive, pad, rubber, foam, cork, or other material that prevents the tray insert 500 from undesirably moving or sliding on a surface.

Referring to fig. 8B, the tray insert 500 has a top portion 544 and a bottom portion 542, the tray insert having a depth. The depth of each recessed portion 510 does not exceed the depth of the tray insert 500.

Fig. 10 shows a pallet insert 500 within a pallet rack 600 forming part of a modular container system 1000. Portions of the

male connectors

521, 531 and the

female connectors

522, 532 of the first and

second locking mechanisms

520 and 530 protrude from the tray frame 600.

Child-resistant container

Another aspect of a modular container system is a child-resistant container (e.g., a tube container). The child-resistant container is configured to store, retain, and/or preserve substances or materials, as well as provide a child-resistant mechanism.

Generally, the child-resistant containers disclosed herein include a container base and a container lid. The container base is engaged with the container lid when the container is in a closed configuration. In the closed configuration, the container is substantially child-resistant, meaning that it is difficult for a child to remove the container lid from the container base.

The container base has a closed bottom end, an open top end, and an outer surface. Embodiments of the container (including the container base) are substantially symmetrical in shape.

The container base can have indicia on one or more sides of the container. The mark can be used to extract the container base and/or to distinguish one side of the container from the other. The marking can be, for example, a slight protrusion from the outer surface of the base of the container. The user removes the container lid from the container base by squeezing or pressing the mark inward where it is while pulling the container lid upward.

The radially extending flange is a component of the base of the container. The flange structurally separates the neck and lower body portion of the base. The flange is disposed near and parallel to the top end of the container base. The flange aids in child-resistance of the container (e.g., preventing a child from taking under the lid and using fingernails/teeth to pry open). The flange prevents the container lid from over-squeezing the seal. The combination of the flange and the retaining feature creates a sufficient amount of compressive force.

The container lid has an outer surface and an inner surface. The container lid also has an open bottom end (base receiving end) and a closed top end. The top end of the container lid has a shoulder, a ramp, and a raised portion. The shoulder, ramp, and raised portion enable the container base to be stacked on top of the container lid (e.g., the containers are self-stacking) and the pallet insert or pallet rack to be stacked on top of the container lid. The container lid can have indicia on the inner and/or outer surfaces.

The container lid can have an annular seal or sealing ring (e.g., annular ring 1270 in fig. 12B; O-ring 2408 in fig. 15A). The annular seal is disposed on the inner surface at or near the top end of the container lid. The annular seal can help provide a barrier between the environment of the container and the external environment. The material stored in the container may be sensitive to air, water, oxygen, light, UV, temperature, bacteria, or combinations thereof.

The annular seal has a hardness of about 20 to about 70 to provide a water/liquid tight, gas tight, or both seal between the container lid and the container base. In certain embodiments, the annular seal has a hardness of 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, or 70. In another embodiment, the annular seal has a hardness of 25 to 40. In another embodiment, the annular seal has a hardness of 30 to 35. In one embodiment, the annular seal has a hardness of about 30. In another embodiment, the annular seal has a hardness of about 35.

The container lid has one or more base engagement elements. Each base engagement element is disposed on an interior surface of the container lid (e.g., on some or all sides of the container lid). Each base engagement element includes one or more rows of ridges, where each row has one or more (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more) ridges. In some aspects, the base engagement element has one or more ridges. In some aspects, the base engagement element has two ridges.

The ridges can be configured as an upper row of ridges as well as a lower row of ridges. There is a space between the two rows of ridges. The ridge is shaped to be slightly inclined. The ridge is sized and configured to slide and engage in the groove of the cover engagement member. In some aspects, the ridge is sized and configured to receive a (fit around) cover engagement element.

The child-resistant feature of the container relates to the engagement of the container base with the container lid. The one or more lid-engaging elements are part of the container base. The cover engagement element is formed by a raised surface or protrusion (ridge). The raised surface is disposed near or parallel to the top end of the base of the container. Directly above the radially extending flange and below the raised surface is a longitudinally extending ridge or ramp. The ridge extends from at or near the elevated surface toward the flange. A groove is formed between the two ridges (i.e. the space between the two ridges is the groove). The ridge and groove guide and align the container lid and provide a tight engagement with the container base. The lid engagement element prevents the container lid from being easily removed or improperly removed from the container base. Typically, the lid-engaging elements are disposed on opposite sides of the container base. However, a single cap engagement element can be provided on the container base (e.g., for a tubular container), or 3 or more cap engagement elements can be provided on the container base.

Fig. 11A-11E illustrate various embodiments of the child-resistant containers and tube containers disclosed herein. The child-resistant container 1100 and the

containers

1110, 1120, 1130, and 1140 have different shapes and sizes. Each of the

containers

1100, 1110, 1120, 1130, and 1140 is sized to engage a mating tray insert (see fig. 1-9). The containers disclosed herein are self-stackable (as in fig. 16A) and have features that make them child-resistant. Other features will be apparent in view of the above.

The child-resistant tubular container 1500 of fig. 12A has a container base 1520 and a container lid 1510. The container lid 1510 is attached to the container base 1520 by a hinge 1560. The container lid 1510 has a base engagement element 1505 located on the inner surface or inside surface 1504 of the container lid 1510. The base engagement member 1505 can mate or engage with the lid engagement member 1530 of the container base 1520. The container base 1520 includes a ramp 1550. Ramp 1550 is disposed substantially at the corner of the neck of the base.

The container base has an outer surface 1524, an open top end 1522 and a closed bottom end 1521, the bottom end 1521 serving as a receiving portion for receiving a container lid of another container. The lid engagement member 1530 is disposed on an outer surface 1524 of the container base 1520 between the top end 1522 and the flange 1523. The radially extending flange 1523 acts as a physical stop when the container lid is positioned on the container base. Embossed or gripping indicia 1540 and text 1541 on the outer surface 1524 assist in guiding a user in opening or closing the tubular container 1500.

Fig. 12B through 12H illustrate various views of another embodiment of a tubular container 1200. The tube container 1200 has a container cover 1210 and an elongate base 1220. The container cover 1210 is connected to the base 1220 by a hinge 1260. The base 1220 has an upper neck 1235 and a tube 1240. The cap 1210 is attached to the base 1220 at the neck 1235. Neck 1235 is sized and configured to receive cap 1210.

Referring to fig. 12B, 12C, and 12F, the cover 1210 has a base engagement element 1205 on the inner surface 1204. The base engagement member 1205 is sized and configured to mate and engage with the cover engagement member 1230. The base engagement elements are disposed on the inner surface 1204 of the inner wall on the front side of the cover 1210. The base engagement member 1205 has a ridge 1205A. The base engagement member can also have ridges 1205B, as shown in fig. 12B and 12C. Ridge 1205A slides over cap engagement element 1230 and locks cap 1210 in place at neck 1235 of base 1220. The

ridges

1205A and 1205B define a space or void therebetween that is sized and configured to engage the cover engagement member 1230. The base engagement element 1205 is disposed on one side (e.g., the front side) of the cover 1210, however the base engagement element 1205 can be configured to be disposed on the other interior side of the cover 1210.

The elongate base 1220 has a tube 1240 and a neck 1235, the tube 1240 having a closed bottom end 1221 and the neck 1235 having an open top end 1222. The tube 1240 and neck 1235 each have an outer surface 1224. The bottom end 1221 can serve as a receiving portion for the raised portion 1206 of the cover 1210, allowing one tubular container to be stacked on another tubular container. The bottom end 1221 is substantially flat and substantially parallel to the open top end 1222. The cavity defined by the tube 1240 can have a rounded or curved interior bottom end 1241 as shown in fig. 12H. The inner bottom end 1241 can also be flat or have other geometries.

The base has a cover engagement element 1230 disposed on an outer surface 1224 of the neck 1235. A cover engagement member 1230 is disposed between the top end 1222 and the radially extending flange 1223. The cap engagement elements 1230 are disposed on a single side (e.g., the front side) of the neck 1235, however the cap engagement elements 1230 can be disposed on one or more sides of the neck 1235. The lid engagement element 1230 engages with the base engagement element 1205 and provides the child-resistant tubular container 1200 in a closed state. The cover engagement member 1230 is substantially parallel to the flange 1223 and the open top end 1222. The cover engagement element 1230 has a ramp-like structure so that the base engagement element (particularly the ridge 1205A) can slide over the cover engagement element 1230 and seat directly below the cover engagement element 1230 (below). The ridge 1205B is seated directly above (e.g., above) the cover engagement element 1230.

A radially extending flange 1223 distinguishes the neck 1235 from the tube 1240 of the base 1220. The flange can act as a physical stop for the cap 1210 on top of the base 1220.

Ramps

1231 and 1232 are disposed on opposite sides of the neck of container base 1220.

Ramps

1231, 1232 abut lid engaging element 1230. The

bevels

1231 and 1232 may comprise a pair of bevels (e.g., bevel 1231 with bevel 1231A and bevel 1231B; bevel 1232 with

bevels

1232A and 1232B) or may comprise a single bevel (e.g., only 1231A or only 1231B). The

bevels

1231, 1232 can be disposed relative to one another (e.g., on opposite sides of the neck 1235) or on a single side of the neck 1235 (e.g., only the left or right side). The ramp 1231 is disposed on a first side (e.g., left side) of the base and the ramp 1232 is disposed on a second side (e.g., right side) of the base.

Ramps

1231, 1232 are sized and configured to help secure cover 1210 to base 1220.

Ramps

1231, 1232 provide additional support and a friction fit between cap 1210 and base 1220. 12B, 12C, 12D, 12E, and 12F illustrate ramp-like structures, other structures, sizes, and configurations are contemplated and substantially the same results are achieved.

To disengage the cover 1210 from the base 1220, a force is applied to the back 1261 of the cover 1210. The user pushes against the back 1261 and applies pressure directly above (i.e., above) the hinge 1260 and near the hinge 1260 to slide the lid slightly in a forward direction and disengage the base engagement element 1205 from the lid engagement element 1230. At about the same time, or at the same time, the user removes the cap from the base 1220 by grasping the opposite side of the cap and lifting the cap 1210 upward.

The size and shape of the

tubular containers

1200, 1500 can be shaped in a variety of ways. The

tubular containers

1200, 1500 are substantially rectangular with rounded corners. The cap 1210, base 1220, and neck 1235 and tube 1240 can each have a generally rounded square horizontal cross-section. Other geometries (e.g., rectangular, oblong, or polygonal) can be used for the

containers

1200, 1500.

The tubular container can have a larger inner or outer diameter at the top end of the base (e.g., at or near the neck) as compared to the bottom end of the base (e.g., at or near the bottom end). For example, as shown in fig. 12D and 12E, the tube 1240 of the vessel 1200 tapers from just below the flange 1223 to the closed bottom end 1221. The tubular container can be substantially linear, with an inside or outside diameter at its top end substantially equal to an inside or outside diameter at its bottom end.

The length (height) of a tubular container is typically greater than the depth and/or width of the container. The length measurement is from the closed bottom end to the top of the lid or to the open top end of the base. The depth and/or width can be measured at, near, at, or near the closed bottom end. The container has an aspect ratio of, for example, at least 2: 1. The aspect ratio can be from about 2:1 to about 15:1, from about 3:1 to about 12:1, from about 5:1 to about 10:1, from about 3:1 to about 5:1, from about 5:1 to about 7:1, from about 7:1 to about 9:1, from about 9:1 to about 11:1, from about 11:1 to about 13:1, or from about 13:1 to about 15: 1. The aspect ratio can be about 2:1, 2.5:1, 3:1, 3.5:1, 4:1, 4.5:1, 5:1, 5.5:1, 6:1, 6.5:1, 7:1, 7.5:1, 8:1, 8.5:1, 9:1, 10:1, 11:1, 12:1, 13:1, 14:1, 15:1, or more than 15: 1.

The length (height) of the tubular container 1200 can be about 20mm to about 500 mm. In one embodiment, the length is about 30mm to about 400 mm. In one embodiment, the length is about 40mm to about 300 mm. In one embodiment, the length is about 50mm to about 200 mm. In one embodiment, the length is about 60mm to about 150 mm. In one embodiment, the length is about 70mm to about 125 mm. In certain embodiments, the length is about 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145, 150, 155, 160, 165, 170, 175, 180, 185, 190, 195, 200, 205, 210, 215, 220, 225, 230, 235, 240, 245, or 250 mm.

The container cover 1210 can also have a gasket or annular seal 1270 disposed around the inner surface 1204 or on the inner surface 1204 as in fig. 12F. The annular seal 1270 is sized and configured to be disposed on a seat 1271 within the cover 1210 (as shown in fig. 12B). The annular seal 1270 assists the tubular container 1200 in establishing a substantially air-tight, fluid-tight, water-tight, humidity-controlled, or any combination thereof environment. Annular ring 1270 helps prevent air, liquid, water vapor, moisture, odors, and the like from flowing into or out of the container when the container is closed. The seat 1271 positions the annular sealing ring 1270 within the container cover 1210.

The tubular container 1200 also provides light (e.g., ultraviolet) protection, bacterial protection, mold protection, other microbial protection, and electrostatic protection.

The hinge 1260 connects or tethers the cover 1210 to the base 1220 and moves the cover 1210 into secure engagement over the base 1220. The hinge 1260 enables the cover to move about 0 (cover on base) to about 180 or more than 180. The hinge 1260 can be formed from a shape memory material and can therefore maintain one or more positions of the lid relative to the base. In some embodiments, the hinge 1260 preferably places the cover 1210 in one, two, three, or more than three positions. For example, hinge 1260 can preferably place lid 1210 at a position between 0 ° and 180 °, between 20 ° and 140 °, or between 45 ° and 120 °. In some embodiments, the lid is at a 45 ° position, a 90 ° position (e.g., the lid is perpendicular to the base), a 135 ° position, a 180 ° position, and/or a position greater than 180 ° in position. These positions relate to the position of the lid relative to the base such that the lid is on the base at 0 ° and the lid is off the base at 180 °, as shown in fig. 12D. Having a hinge 1260 to remember or maintain the position or positions of the lid relative to the base has a number of advantages. For example, container lids positioned less than 180 degrees can improve the manufacture and labeling of the tubular container 1200. The hinge 1260 can be reinforced with a material (e.g., plastic) at a particular location such that the container 1200 can withstand hundreds, thousands, or more cycles (e.g., opening and closing).

The child-resistant container 1600 of fig. 13A-13D illustrates another embodiment of the container disclosed herein. The container cover 1610 has a raised surface or portion 1601 and a ramp 1602 that slopes to a shoulder 1603. Each raised portion 1601, ramp 1602, and shoulder 1603 define a closed top end of the container cover 1610.

The container base 1620 has an open top end 1622, a closed bottom end 1621, and a radially extending flange 1623 disposed on an outer surface 1624. The container base 1620 also has a first cover engagement element 1630A and a second cover engagement element 1630B (fig. 13F). The

cover engagement elements

1630A, 1630B are disposed on the outer surface 1624 of the container base 1620, on opposite sides of the container base, and between the open top end 1622 and the flange 1623. The

cover engagement elements

1630A, 1630B each have a raised surface 1631 substantially parallel to the flange 1623, a plurality of ridges 1632 disposed between the raised surface 1631 and the flange 1623, the ridges defining at least one channel 1633 therebetween. The at least one channel 1633 is sized to receive the lower row of ridges on the inside surface of the vessel cover 1610. The container base 1620 also has one or

more anti-rotation locks

1650A and 1650B symmetrically and radially disposed on the outer surface 1624 on the adjacent side of the

lid engagement elements

1630A, 1630B in the container base, wherein the anti-rotation locks extend around the flange 1623. The container base 1623 also has a ramped surface 1660 symmetrically or radially disposed on the outer surface 1624 between the cover engagement element 1630 and the anti-spin lock 1650. The ramp 1660 assists in aligning the container cover 1610 with the container base 1620. The container base 1620 can also have grip marks 1640 and/or text 1641 to guide the user how and from where to open the container. Text 1631 can be any language, font, size, design, braille, and/or symbol.

The container base 1620 also has one or more protrusions 1670 that help to stabilize the container base 1620 when placed on top of, for example, the container lid 1610 (fig. 13E). The container base 1620 has a concave surface on the closed bottom end 1621 to allow it to be secured and fit to another container.

Fig. 14A and 14B illustrate additional features of one embodiment of a container base 2200. The container base 2200 has a closed bottom end 2221, an open top end 2222, a radially extending flange 2223, and an outer surface 2224. The container base 2200 also has a cover engagement element 2230 disposed on the opposite side of the container base, on the outer surface, between the flange 2223 and the open end 2222. The grip indicia 2240 and text 2241 are located directly below the flange 2223 on the same side of the cover engagement element 2230.

Fig. 15A and 15B show an inside view of the container cover 2400. The container cap 2400 has an outer surface 2406 and an inner (interior) surface 2407. One or more base engagement members 2401 are disposed on the inner surface 2407. The one or more base engagement elements 2401 comprise an upper row of ridges 2403 and a lower row of ridges 2402 (each row being opposite the container lid when positioned on the container base), each row of ridges having one or more ridges. The

base engagement elements

2401A, 2401B, 2401C and 2401D are disposed around an interior surface 2407 of the container cover 2400. The one or more base engagement elements may be lockable with the first and second lid engagement elements (e.g., 2230 of FIG. 14B) to provide the child-resistant container in a closed configuration.

Fig. 15C is a top view of a container lid 2400 having a raised portion 2401, a ramp 2402, and a shoulder 2403.

The child-resistant containers disclosed herein are stackable, as shown in fig. 16A and 16B. That is, one container 2700 having a container cover 2710 and a container base 2720 can be stacked on top of another container 2703 having a container cover 2710 and a container base 2720. The container cover 2710 includes a ramp 2702. The raised portion 1701 of the container cover 2710 of one container 2700 is configured to seat within a receiving portion defined by the concave surface of the closed bottom end 2721 of the container base 2720. The child-resistant container and the tubular container each have a similar configuration to enable self-stacking.

Containers

2700 and 2703 can include gripping marks 2740. Refer to fig. 11A to 11E.

Similarly, fig. 17 illustrates a container 2900 having a container lid 2910 that nests with the bottom end of the container base 2920. The raised portion (not shown) and the ramp (not shown) nest within the concave surface of the base 2920. The bottom end of the container base 2920 rests on a shoulder 2903 of the container lid 2910. As shown, the container base 2920 includes an open top end 2922, a radially extending flange 2923, an anti-rotation lock 2950, a lid engagement element 2930, a ramp 2960, and a gripping marker 2940.

As disclosed herein, the container lid is configured in relation to the container base. The container base forms an enclosed space for the contained material and the container lid closes the open top end of the base. The container base and container lid can be plastic, plastic composites, reinforced plastic, thermoplastic, metal composites, polypropylene copolymers, ultraclarified polypropylene, colored PP, PET, PETE, PS, PC, glass, or combinations thereof. The container base, container lid can be made, for example, from any of the following materials or combinations thereof: polypropylene, high density polyethylene, polystyrene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polychlorotrifluoroethylene, phenolic resin, polyaramid, polyethylene terephthalate, polychloroprene, polyamide, polyacrylonitrile, copolyimide, aromatic polyester, poly (xylylene 2, 6-benzobisoxazole); glass, plexiglass, resin, wood, rubber, elastomeric rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, fluorinated ethylene propylene, vulcanized rubber, metal.

Tray insert and container

As discussed above, the modular container system includes a tray insert and a child-resistant container, each of which is described in detail above. Fig. 18-22 illustrate various embodiments (3100, 3200, 3300, 3400, 3500) of tray inserts (3120, 3220, 3320, 3420, and 3520) and child-resistant containers (3110, 3210, 3310, 3410, and 3510). For example, referring to fig. 20, when the tray insertion 3220 is not completely filled with the containers 3210, the marks in the concave portion 3223 are displayed on the remaining number of the containers 3210 in the tray insertion 3220. The user can see the indicia "12" indicating the remaining 12 containers in the tray insert 3220. Other numbering or marking schemes can be used to achieve the same result (i.e., quickly and easily identifying the number of containers remaining, or alternatively, the number of containers removed).

Another aspect of the modular container system allows a pallet with containers to be stacked on another pallet with containers. Referring to fig. 23, a stack of two tray inserts/container "units" is shown at 3000. Although fig. 23 shows a stack of similar containers 3010 and tray inserts 3020, any of the tray inserts 3020 and child-resistant container embodiments disclosed herein can be stacked on another embodiment. The tray insert 3020 includes a female locking element 3022 and a male locking element 3021.

Fig. 24A is a top view of a tray insert 3620 partially enclosing a child-resistant container 3630. The containers 3630 are securely engaged within the recessed portion 3610 to prevent the containers from moving or sliding from the tray insert 3620. The identifying indicia 3611 assists in identifying how many containers 3630 remain in the tray insert 3620. The tray insert 3620 has two pairs of locking

mechanisms

3621, 3622. Male and

female locking mechanisms

3621 and 3622 are provided on opposite sides of the tray insert 3620. This locking mechanism configuration allows multiple tray inserts to be locked together in a side-by-side configuration such that the male portion 3621 on one tray insert mates to the female portion 3622 on another tray insert.

Fig. 24B and 24C show a side-by-side arrangement of tray inserts 3600A and 3600B. The locking mechanism 3620 of the tray insert 3600A engages with the locking mechanism 3620 of the tray insert 3600B (fig. 24C). As shown in fig. 24D, the plurality of tray inserts 3600A, 3600B, 3600C, 3600D can be arranged in a large tray insert shape, design, or pattern. Refer to fig. 7A to 7E. The locking mechanism 3620 can be found on one, two, three, or all four sides 3650A (top side), 3650B (right side), 3650C (bottom side), 3605D (left side) of the tray inserts 3600A, 3600B, 3600C, 3600D. Each locking mechanism 3620 has a male connector 3621 and a female connector 3622.

The container 3630 is friction fit in the recessed portion 3610 so that it does not drop out of the tray. For example, the tray insert can be hung or attached to a wall or ceiling without the container falling off.

Fig. 25A-25C are side views of a tray insert/child-resistant container combination 3700 with child-resistant containers 3710A-

E. Locking mechanisms

3721, 3722 are shown in figure 25B. A cross-sectional side view of the combination 3700 is shown in fig. 25C. The rows of ridges 3701 in the container lid include an upper row 3702 and a lower row 3703. The lower row 3703 engages the lid engagement element 3730 to provide a substantially child-resistant closed container. The container lid has a raised portion 3711, a ramp 3712 and a shoulder 3713.

Tray rack

Another component of the modular container system is a tray rack as shown in fig. 26 and 27. The tray shelf 5010 is sized and configured to nest within another tray shelf 5020 to form a stacked tray shelf 5000. Each

tray rack

5010, 5020 has one or

more slots

5011, 5012, 5021, 5022 disposed on the sides of the tray. The slot is sized to allow a locking mechanism of the pallet jack to protrude through the pallet rack. The slots 5011 of the tray holder 5010 are sized to allow the male connectors of the locking mechanism on which the tray is inserted to protrude from the tray holder. The slots 5012 of the tray holder 5010 are sized to allow the female connectors of the locking mechanism on which the tray is inserted to protrude from the tray holder.

Slots

5011 and 5012 are provided on the left and right sides of the tray rack corresponding to the first and second locking mechanisms into which the tray is inserted.

Fig. 27 shows the

tray racks

5110 and 5120 nested within one another to form a stacked tray rack 5100. Any number of tray racks can be stacked for storage or other purposes. The indent 5125 provides for proper positioning of the tray frame so that the plurality of tray frames are all aligned and in the same direction and orientation. The tray frames 5110, 5120 include

slots

5111, 5112, 5121, and 5122 configured to engage a locking mechanism of the tray insert.

The tray frame also has rounded feet or corners at its bottom (see fig. 34B, 4091). The corners 4091 each have radiused edges such that they can lock or mate with the outer diameter of a child-resistant container lid regardless of the container size (e.g., 15D, 25D, 45D, or 145D). The tray frame foot 4091 is configured so that the tray frame does not slide or move when placed on top of a container.

The present disclosure provides a single tray rack that universally mates with multiple tray receptacles. The tray insert, although of similar dimensions, is unique to the type of container it contains. Other embodiments include inserting the pallet rack and pallet into a single unit.

Other assemblies

The modular container system can include a tamper evident element. The tamper evident elements can be found on the pallet insert, pallet rack, and/or child-resistant container. For example, the tamper-evident element is a break-away component. The detachment assembly can comprise a seal, a tape, or a combination thereof.

The modular container system can further comprise product labeling, manufacturer instructions, RFID tags, NFC tags, bar codes, or combinations thereof.

In certain aspects, the components of the modular container system further comprise a writing surface compatible with a pen, pencil, or marker. In some aspects, the modular container system further comprises space available for special material or surface applications to easily remove stickers or logos without leaving a residue.

In certain aspects, the modular container storage system further comprises one or more sensors. For example, any sensor can be used in the modular storage system, such as environmental sensors (e.g., humidity sensors, oxygen sensors, temperature sensors, barometric sensors, light sensors), gyroscopes, accelerometers, GPS sensors, magnetometers, proximity sensors, fingerprint sensors, and retinal sensors.

Use and storage method

The present disclosure relates to a method for packaging and/or storing material. The packaging method includes providing a modular container system having a child-resistant container and introducing material into the container. The method includes loading the child-resistant containers into one or more tray inserts and then inserting the one or more trays into the tray racks.

The material being packaged may be a material that is sensitive to one or more environmental factors. Sensitivity includes, but is not limited to, air, water, oxygen, light, ultraviolet light, temperature, bacteria, or combinations thereof. For example, the material is a consumer product, a pharmaceutical, a nutraceutical, an herbal material, a plant material, a food product, an animal-based product, a plant-based product, or the like. Thus, some or all of the modular container system forms a substantially airtight seal, a liquid-tight seal, or both.

The cover engagement element and the base engagement element are configured to cooperatively engage in a locked position that releasably secures the container cover to the container base in a closed position in which the open end of the base is covered by the cover, thereby inhibiting access to the open cavity. Securing the container lid to the container base includes the steps of: the container lid is slid along the long axis of the container and pressed against the open end of the container base. The container is locked by sliding and depressing the lid over the raised surface of the container base until an audible noise is heard as well as a tactile click. In other words, the sides of the container lid must be pressed with sufficient force to overcome the obstruction of the raised surface and then secured in a secure base-lid engagement so that one end of the plurality of ridges on the inside of the container lid are pressed against the raised surface. At the same time, one or more ridges will pierce or engage into the groove of the lid-engaging member of the container base, and one or more ridges of the container base can pierce between the ridges on the container lid. This results in a secure coupling of the base engagement element of the container lid with the lid engagement element of the container base. Additional grooves and ridges can be included to increase the difficulty or complexity of accessing the contents or using the container.

In some embodiments, the full coupling of the base engagement element and the lid engagement element is designed to release an audible signal, a clicking sound, to inform the operator that the lid is secured to the base and thus the contained components are secured in the child-resistant container.

A visual signal is provided on the surface of the container corresponding to the location and direction of the external force to be applied. For example, indicia for grasping is provided on a surface of the container base indicating a side of the container base having the lid-engaging element therein. A second marking is provided on the cover, the second marking being generally located on a side not opposite but adjacent to the side containing the cover engaging element. Which corresponds to applying a pulling force on the container lid to disengage the lid from the base while the container base is held by the other hand.

To access the contents from the closed container, a predetermined degree of pressing force must be applied radially inward on the two opposite sides of the base. Two opposing sides of the base having the cover engagement element and indicated by the gripping indicia may be pressed with a finger to resiliently reduce the first width of the base along the pressing axis to a second width, which releases the cover engagement element from the base engagement element. This releases the cover from the pressure of the raised surface on the side of the cover. In one aspect, a predetermined degree of pressure can be applied to a location on the opposite lid side adjacent the lid engagement element. The marking constitutes a visual indicator on the side for applying a pressing force for opening the container. The container lid and container base may be separated from the closed position by axially pulling the container base and container lid away from each other along a longitudinal axis of the container. The pulling force can be applied with the engagement element in the unlocked position. The predetermined level of force can be between about 1 pound to about 9 pounds, or between about 2 pounds to about 8 pounds, about 2 pounds to about 6 pounds, or between 3 pounds to 5 pounds. The predetermined level of force is at least about 4 pounds.

The lid engagement element and the base engagement element can be configured to disengage from a locked position to an unlocked position, wherein the container lid and the container base can be unlatched from the closed position to an open position to enable access to the cavity of the container. The change from the locked position to the unlocked position is by applying a predetermined degree of pressing force radially inwardly on two opposite sides of the base to resiliently reduce a first width of the base along a pressing axis to a second width, wherein the second width is slightly less than the first width. In certain aspects, the predetermined degree of force can be applied at a location on opposing sides of a base, wherein at least one side of the base comprises the lid-engaging element. The lid may be separated from the base from the closed position by simultaneously applying a predetermined compressive force on two opposing sides of the base, at least one of which has a lid-engaging element, to pull the lid away from the base along the longitudinal axis of the container. In still other aspects, the lid can be pulled apart using the side of the lid corresponding to the axis of deployment. In some aspects, the pressure relief device reduces from a first width to a second width, wherein the second width is less than the first width, and the second width elastically expands to the first width upon release of the pressure.

In various aspects, the present disclosure relates to containers and devices for storing restricted use substances. The consumer safety committee (CSPC, www.cspc.gov) provides guidance for packaging of special child-resistant and senior-friendly packages (CRP) of pharmaceuticals and other controlled substances. CSPC also manages the poison prevention packaging method (PPPA) in 1970, article 1471-1476 of 15 U.S.C. Substances that are of limited use in this application include, but are not limited to, tobacco, pharmaceutical or federal regulation, nutrients and/or vitamins. The substance may be sensitive to environmental exposure and may easily decay, decompose, lose desirable properties during exposure, such as drugs, herbal products, plant products. Substances for storage in the containers of the present disclosure may include, but are not limited to, one or more ingredients or drugs (https:// www.dea.gov/drug/ds.shtml) classified in attached table I, II, III or attached table IV in Controlled Substances Act (CSA) by the united states drug bureau: a combination product containing less than 15 mg of hydrocodone (Vicodin), cocaine, methamphetamine, methadone, hydromorphone (Dilaudi), meperidine (Demerol), oxycodone (OxyContin), fentanyl, Dexedrine, Adderall and Ritalin per dosage unit; products containing less than 90 mg codeine (Tylenol with codeine), ketamine, anabolic steroids, testosterone per dosage unit; or products including Xanax, Soma, Darvon, Darvocet, Valium, Ativan, Talwin, Ambien, Tramadol.

The present disclosure provides a method of storing material in a child-resistant container. The method includes providing a child-resistant container including a container base having a lid-engaging element and a container lid having a base-engaging element, wherein the lid-engaging element is configured to matingly engage and reversibly couple to the base-engaging element; introducing a material into the base; and securing the lid to the base, wherein the lid-engaging elements engage and couple to the base-engaging elements to form the child-resistant container.

Fig. 28-34C illustrate various embodiments having a tray rack, a tray insert, and one or more child-resistant containers. For example, fig. 28 is an exploded view of a modular system 4900 having a child-resistant container 4910, a tray insert 4920, and a tray holder 4930. As disclosed herein, the tray insert 4920 corresponds to a particular size of container 4910. The tray insert 4920 is of a 5x5 configuration and therefore is capable of holding 25 containers 4910.

Fig. 29 illustrates an embodiment of a modular container system 4400 having a tray rack 4430, a tray insert 4420, and a plurality of containers 4410. A 6x6 configuration of the tray insert 4420 is sufficient to hold 36 containers 4410. The tray insert 4420 has a plurality of concave portions 4421 each having an identification number mark 4422. The male connector 4423 and the female connector 4424 of the first locking mechanism of the tray insert 4420 protrude from the groove of the tray holder 4430.

Fig. 30 illustrates another embodiment of a modular container system 4500 having a tray stand 4530, a tray insert 4520, and a plurality of containers 4510. The pallet insert 4520 is sufficient to hold 25 containers 4510 in a 5x5 configuration. The tray stand 4530 can include an indentation 4525. FIG. 31 shows another embodiment of a modular container system 4600 with a tray rack 4630, a tray insert 4620, and a plurality of containers 4610. The tray insert 4620 was 4x4 configured enough to hold 16 containers 4610. The tray support 4630 can include an indentation 4625. Fig. 32 illustrates another embodiment of a modular container system 4700 having a pallet rack 4730, a pallet insert 4720, and a plurality of containers 4710. The pallet rack 4730 can include indentations 4725. The pallet insert 4720 is a 3x3 configuration sufficient to hold 9 containers 4710. Fig. 33 shows another embodiment of a modular container system 4800 having a tray rack 4830, a tray insert 4820, and a plurality of tubular containers 4810. A 10x10 configuration for the pallet insert 4820 is sufficient to hold 100 tubular containers 4810. The tray support 4830 can include an indentation 4825.

Fig. 34A-34D illustrate various views of one embodiment of a modular container system 4000. Fig. 34A is a perspective view of a stack of pallet racks 4060, each having pallet inserts and

containers

4010, 4020, 4030, 4040, and 4050. The stacking or configuration of the pallet racks, pallet inserts, and container subunits does not affect the system in any way and can be in any order. Fig. 34B-34C show that the tray stand 4060 has a lip 4061 that can be used to grasp or carry the tray stand. A portion of the tray

rack locking mechanisms

4071, 4072 rest outside the tray rack. Fig. 34D is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the modular container system.

Method of manufacturing a modular container system

The assemblies disclosed herein include, but are not limited to, pallet inserts, child-resistant containers, child-resistant tubular containers, and pallet racks made of plastic or any other suitable material. For example, any of the components of the modular container system can be plastic, thermoplastic, cardboard, recyclable materials, glass, metal alloys, combinations thereof, or other suitable materials. For example, suitable plastics include, but are not limited to, polypropylene copolymers, ultraclarified polypropylene, colored polypropylene, PET, PETE, fluorinated ethylene propylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polystyrene, high impact polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, or combinations thereof.

Other materials or additives can be added to any of the components (e.g., tray insert, child-resistant container, tray holder). For example, antimicrobial additives can be added. Other additives can include oxidatively degradable additives, and biodegradable material substrate additives, UV protection additives, and antistatic additives.

The components of the modular container system, such as the container base and/or the container lid, can be of UV resistant or blocking material. The container base and/or the container lid can be composed of a material that is completely opaque. A fully opaque or opaque material as disclosed herein means that it exhibits 100% opacity, wherein the material is opaque. In some aspects, either the base or the cover, or both, can be composed of a material having less than complete opacity. This material can include a characteristic having 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or 0% opacity, or any range therebetween. In some embodiments, the container lid and/or base is completely opaque and light-proof. In certain aspects, the container lid and/or base is transparent, wherein the opacity is less than 100%. In certain aspects, the container lid and/or base is transparent, wherein the opacity is about 10% or about close to 0%.

In various aspects, components of the modular container system, such as the container lid and/or the container base, are protected by a removable sheath. The removable sheath may be opaque. The removable jacket can be UV resistant. In certain aspects, the removable sheath is moisture resistant. In certain aspects, the removable sheath is opaque. In certain aspects, the removable sheath comprises surface markings for product labeling, safety precautions, or combinations thereof.

The plastic can be injection molded, thermoformed, vacuum formed, or produced in any other manner sufficient to allow the components disclosed herein to perform their intended functions.

The teachings of all patents, published applications and references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

While the present invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention encompassed by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A container, comprising:

a base comprising a closed bottom end, a neck having an open top end, and a cap engagement element disposed on a first side of the neck;

a cover comprising a base engagement element on an inner surface of the cover; wherein the base engagement element is configured to engage the lid engagement element; and

a hinge attaching the base to the lid.

2. The container of claim 1, further comprising one or more ramps disposed on the outer surface of the neck.

3. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein two ramps are provided on a second side of the neck and two ramps are provided on a third side of the neck, wherein the second and third sides are opposite to each other.

4. A container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the container is a child-resistant container.

5. The container of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the base, the lid, the hinge, or a combination thereof comprises plastic.

6. The container of any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising an annular sealing ring on an inner surface of the lid.

7. The container of claim 6, further comprising a seat that positions the annular sealing ring within the cap.

8. The container of claim 7, wherein the container is substantially airtight, liquid-tight, water-tight, humidity-controlled, light-controlled, or any combination thereof.

9. The container of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the length of the container is from about 20mm to about 500 mm.

10. The container of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the length of the container is from about 50mm to about 200 mm.

11. The container of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the container has an aspect ratio of about 2:1 to about 15: 1.

12. The container according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the aspect ratio of the container is about 3:1 to about 12: 1.

13. The container of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the hinge positions the lid at one or more locations relative to the base.

14. A container according to claim 13, wherein the position is between 20 ° and 140 °.

15. A method of implementing a container, comprising:

providing a container comprising a base, a hinge, and a lid;

wherein the base comprises a closed bottom end, a neck having an open top end, and a cap engagement element;

wherein the cap engagement element is disposed on the outer surface of the neck;

wherein the cover comprises a base engagement element configured to couple with the cover engagement element; and

moving the cover over the open end of the base, wherein the cover engagement element is coupled to the base engagement element.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the base further comprises a radially extending flange disposed on the outer surface of the base below the cap engagement element.

17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the base further comprises one or more ramps disposed on the outer surface of the neck.

18. The method of any of claims 15 to 17, further comprising:

the lid is removed by simultaneously applying an external force to the back of the lid and lifting the lid from the base.

19. The method of any of claims 15 to 18, further comprising:

storing a consumable product, a pharmaceutical, a nutraceutical, a herbal material, a food product, an animal-based product, or a plant-based product in the container.