EP1078860A1 - Containers with variable volume - Google Patents
Containers with variable volume Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP1078860A1 EP1078860A1 EP00202933A EP00202933A EP1078860A1 EP 1078860 A1 EP1078860 A1 EP 1078860A1 EP 00202933 A EP00202933 A EP 00202933A EP 00202933 A EP00202933 A EP 00202933A EP 1078860 A1 EP1078860 A1 EP 1078860A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- container according
- container
- sleeve
- volume
- flexible member
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/24—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D21/00—Nestable, stackable or joinable containers; Containers of variable capacity
- B65D21/08—Containers of variable capacity
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D11/00—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of plastics material
- B65D11/02—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of plastics material of curved cross-section
- B65D11/04—Bottles or similar containers with necks or like restricted apertures designed for pouring contents
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D21/00—Nestable, stackable or joinable containers; Containers of variable capacity
- B65D21/08—Containers of variable capacity
- B65D21/086—Collapsible or telescopic containers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D35/00—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor
- B65D35/24—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with auxiliary devices
- B65D35/28—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with auxiliary devices for expelling contents
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D35/00—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor
- B65D35/56—Holders for collapsible tubes
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D7/00—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of metal
- B65D7/12—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of metal characterised by wall construction or by connections between walls
- B65D7/24—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of metal characterised by wall construction or by connections between walls collapsible, e.g. with all parts detachable
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
- B65D77/04—Articles or materials enclosed in two or more containers disposed one within another
- B65D77/06—Liquids or semi-liquids or other materials or articles enclosed in flexible containers disposed within rigid containers
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a container wherein the volume of the container can be varied so as to minimise the amount of air in the container.
- Containers are generally of fixed volume. It is usually necessary to have a number of containers of different sizes as it is well known that food will last longer if its contact with air is minimised. Also having containers larger than is necessary sometimes presents a problem, especially when space is at a premium.
- a container comprising an inner flexible member substantially enclosed in a number of interlocking outer sleeves, wherein the volume of the inner flexible member container can be varied by moving at least one outer sleeve relative to another outer sleeve.
- the interlocking sleeves can be screw threaded together so that by twisting the sleeves relative to each other the volume of the member can be varied.
- the interlocking sleeves can alternatively move relative to each other by means of a ratchet.
- An upper sleeve can include at least two series of externally projecting teeth.
- a handle on a lower sleeve can be provided to act as a pawl for each series of externally projecting teeth.
- the upper sleeve can be pushed downwards towards and into the lower sleeve.
- the handles can be used, or the upper and lower sleeves can be rotated relative to each other.
- the interlocking sleeves can alternatively move relative to each other by means of a multi-level bayonet connection.
- the multi-level bayonet connection alternatively is formed by providing in either an upper or lower sleeve opposed grooves, each set of grooves comprising a plurality of transverse grooves connected by a longitudinal groove.
- At least two pin members can extend from the adjacent lower sleeve or upper sleeve to fit one into each set of grooves in the other sleeve.
- Rotation of the upper and lower sleeves causes the transverse pins to move in the transverse grooves to the longitudinal groove and hence to vary the volume of the container in a push/pull and twist action.
- the inner flexible member can be fixed to the base of the lower sleeve by means of a pin.
- the inner flexible member can be welded to the upper sleeve.
- a lip of the inner flexible member can protrude through an opening in the container, hence providing a seal between the inner flexible member and a cap. This allows the inner flexible member to be removed completely from the outer sleeves.
- the inner flexible member can be concertina or balloon-like.
- the container can be sealed by means of the cap, the cap including a threaded skirt with a float mounted therein.
- the float has a skirt mounted thereon or formed integrally therewith and a button section.
- variable volume container comprising an exterior casing with an inner flexible bladder, the internal volume of which is adjusted by moving one end of the bladder by any suitable means so that in use the volume of the flexible bladder and the volume of its contents are substantially the same.
- the container 10 includes an inner flexible member 1.
- This inner member 1 is concertina, and permanently attached to upper sleeve 14.
- the inner member 1 is attached by a pin 2 to the bottom sleeve 3, allowing the bottom sleeve 3 and inner member 1 to rotate independently.
- the bottom sleeve 3 and upper sleeve 14 have the same diameters, and both have an internal thread.
- the height of the bottom sleeve 3 and upper sleeve 14 is substantially one sixth of the height of the container when fully extended.
- Section 4 is threaded on both sides, so as to interlock with bottom sleeve 3 and centre section 5.
- a similar section 4' to section 4 fits between centre section 5 and upper sleeve 14. Sections 4 and 4' are substantially one sixth of the container height when fully extended, and centre section 5 is substantially one third of the height of the container when fully extended.
- the uppermost internal thread 6 in each section of sleeve 3 and 4 and the lower most internal thread 6' of each section 4' and 14 has a different smaller thread contour to the remaining thread.
- the lower most external thread 7 in each section 4 and 5 and the uppermost external thread 7' in each section 4' and 5 has greater thread contours. The combination of these contours prevents the threaded sections 3, 4, 4', 5 and 14 from separating because of frictional engagement therebetween.
- the threaded sections and sleeves 3, 4, 4', 5 and 14 can be screwed downwards to one third of the container's full height.
- the threaded sections 3, 4, 4', 5 and 14 are screwed upwards, the full container height is achieved and the sizes of threads 6 and 7 prevent the sections and sleeves 3, 4, 4', 5 and 14 coming apart.
- cap 9 At the top of upper sleeve 14, there is an external threaded opening 15, onto which a cap 9 fits.
- the cap 9 includes a threaded skirt 8, skirt 13 and float 11.
- the threaded skirt 8 interlocks with threaded opening 15.
- Figure 2 shows part of the cap 9.
- the sections and sleeves 3, 4, 4', 5 and 14 are screwed down to reduce the volume of the container 10, air can escape from the container 10 by way of passage 12 between threaded skirt 8 and skirt 13.
- the lowering of cap 9 causes float 11 to come into contact with and float on any liquids or other flowable material in the member 1.
- This gradual rising of float 11, and consequentially skirt 13, causes passage 12 to be blocked and the container 10 to be sealed. Any further internal pressure, either from further reducing the internal volume or gases escaping from the liquid, will increase the sealing effect of the cap 9.
- Figure 3 shows another embodiment of the invention, wherein the volume of the container is varied by means of a ratchet and pawl mechanism.
- the upper sleeve 14 has two sets of externally projecting teeth 16. It is to be appreciated that more than two sets may be provided.
- a pawl handle 17 is provided on the lower sleeve 3. To decrease the volume of the container, the upper sleeve is pushed downwards towards the lower sleeve. The pawl inner end of the pawl handle 17 locks in the teeth 16 to maintain a particular volume for the container. Movement of the handle 17 can release the ratchet mechanism, in order for the volume of the containers to be increased. Alternatively, rotation of the upper and lower sleeve 14, 3 may be used to release the ratchet, so as to increase the volume of the container.
- Figure 4 shows yet another embodiment of the invention, wherein the volume of the container is varied by means of multi-level bayonet type connections.
- the connection in the example has the lower sleeve 3 with two sets of shaped grooves, each set comprising a plurality of transverse grooves 19 connected by a longitudinal groove 20.
- Upper sleeve 14 has a pin member 21 which fits into grooves 19, 20. By moving (twisting and pushing/pulling) the upper sleeve 14 relative to lower sleeve 3, or vice versa, the member 21 can move between transverse grooves 19 by means of the longitudinal groove, and hence vary the volume of the container.
- the present invention provides a container wherein the volume of the container can be varied so as to minimise the amount of air in the container.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Food Science & Technology (AREA)
- Closures For Containers (AREA)
- Food-Manufacturing Devices (AREA)
- Endoscopes (AREA)
- Stabilization Of Oscillater, Synchronisation, Frequency Synthesizers (AREA)
- Fuel Cell (AREA)
- Confectionery (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a container wherein the volume of the container can be varied so as to minimise the amount of air in the container.
- Containers are generally of fixed volume. It is usually necessary to have a number of containers of different sizes as it is well known that food will last longer if its contact with air is minimised. Also having containers larger than is necessary sometimes presents a problem, especially when space is at a premium.
- Another problem often encountered is that of aerated drinks going "flat" or losing carbonation when stored. This is a result of the gas escaping from the drink into the neighbouring air.
- It is an object of this invention to provide a container having a variable volume which will attempt to overcome the above disadvantages, or which will at least provide the public with a useful alternative choice.
- According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a container comprising an inner flexible member substantially enclosed in a number of interlocking outer sleeves, wherein the volume of the inner flexible member container can be varied by moving at least one outer sleeve relative to another outer sleeve.
- The interlocking sleeves can be screw threaded together so that by twisting the sleeves relative to each other the volume of the member can be varied.
- The interlocking sleeves can alternatively move relative to each other by means of a ratchet. An upper sleeve can include at least two series of externally projecting teeth. A handle on a lower sleeve can be provided to act as a pawl for each series of externally projecting teeth. To decrease the volume of the container, the upper sleeve can be pushed downwards towards and into the lower sleeve. To release the sleeves and hence to increase the volume of the container, the handles can be used, or the upper and lower sleeves can be rotated relative to each other.
- The interlocking sleeves can alternatively move relative to each other by means of a multi-level bayonet connection. The multi-level bayonet connection alternatively is formed by providing in either an upper or lower sleeve opposed grooves, each set of grooves comprising a plurality of transverse grooves connected by a longitudinal groove. At least two pin members can extend from the adjacent lower sleeve or upper sleeve to fit one into each set of grooves in the other sleeve. Rotation of the upper and lower sleeves causes the transverse pins to move in the transverse grooves to the longitudinal groove and hence to vary the volume of the container in a push/pull and twist action.
- The inner flexible member can be fixed to the base of the lower sleeve by means of a pin. The inner flexible member can be welded to the upper sleeve.
- Alternatively, a lip of the inner flexible member can protrude through an opening in the container, hence providing a seal between the inner flexible member and a cap. This allows the inner flexible member to be removed completely from the outer sleeves.
- The inner flexible member can be concertina or balloon-like.
- The container can be sealed by means of the cap, the cap including a threaded skirt with a float mounted therein. The float has a skirt mounted thereon or formed integrally therewith and a button section. As the volume of the container is decreased by moving one outer sleeve relative to another outer sleeve, air can escape through a passage between the outer edge of the skirt and inner surface of the cap and threaded skirt. Once a liquid or other flowable material reaches the float, the float rises, gradually shutting off the escape of air when the skirt contacts the inner surface of the cap.
- According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a variable volume container comprising an exterior casing with an inner flexible bladder, the internal volume of which is adjusted by moving one end of the bladder by any suitable means so that in use the volume of the flexible bladder and the volume of its contents are substantially the same.
- Further aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
- Figure 1 shows a vertical sectional view of the container according to one embodiment of the present invention;
- Figure 2 shows a sectional view of one half of the cap according to one embodiment of the present invention;
- Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a container according to another embodiment of the invention; and
- Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a container according to a further embodiment of the invention.
-
- In the example seen in Figure 1, the
container 10 includes an innerflexible member 1. Thisinner member 1 is concertina, and permanently attached toupper sleeve 14. Theinner member 1 is attached by apin 2 to thebottom sleeve 3, allowing thebottom sleeve 3 andinner member 1 to rotate independently. Thebottom sleeve 3 andupper sleeve 14 have the same diameters, and both have an internal thread. The height of thebottom sleeve 3 andupper sleeve 14 is substantially one sixth of the height of the container when fully extended. -
Bottom sleeve 3 interlocks with section 4. Section 4 is threaded on both sides, so as to interlock withbottom sleeve 3 and centre section 5. A similar section 4' to section 4 fits between centre section 5 andupper sleeve 14. Sections 4 and 4' are substantially one sixth of the container height when fully extended, and centre section 5 is substantially one third of the height of the container when fully extended. - The uppermost
internal thread 6 in each section ofsleeve 3 and 4 and the lower most internal thread 6' of eachsection 4' and 14 has a different smaller thread contour to the remaining thread. Conversely, the lower mostexternal thread 7 in each section 4 and 5 and the uppermost external thread 7' in each section 4' and 5 has greater thread contours. The combination of these contours prevents the threadedsections - Thus, the threaded sections and
sleeves sections threads sleeves - At the top of
upper sleeve 14, there is an external threadedopening 15, onto which acap 9 fits. Thecap 9 includes a threadedskirt 8,skirt 13 andfloat 11. The threadedskirt 8 interlocks with threadedopening 15. - Figure 2 shows part of the
cap 9. When the sections andsleeves container 10, air can escape from thecontainer 10 by way ofpassage 12 between threadedskirt 8 andskirt 13. The lowering ofcap 9 causesfloat 11 to come into contact with and float on any liquids or other flowable material in themember 1. This gradual rising offloat 11, and consequentially skirt 13, causespassage 12 to be blocked and thecontainer 10 to be sealed. Any further internal pressure, either from further reducing the internal volume or gases escaping from the liquid, will increase the sealing effect of thecap 9. - If the
skirt 13 ever jams up againstclosure 8, finger pressure onbutton section 16 will open the cap and allow further air to escape. - Figure 3 shows another embodiment of the invention, wherein the volume of the container is varied by means of a ratchet and pawl mechanism. The
upper sleeve 14 has two sets of externally projectingteeth 16. It is to be appreciated that more than two sets may be provided. Apawl handle 17 is provided on thelower sleeve 3. To decrease the volume of the container, the upper sleeve is pushed downwards towards the lower sleeve. The pawl inner end of the pawl handle 17 locks in theteeth 16 to maintain a particular volume for the container. Movement of thehandle 17 can release the ratchet mechanism, in order for the volume of the containers to be increased. Alternatively, rotation of the upper andlower sleeve - Figure 4 shows yet another embodiment of the invention, wherein the volume of the container is varied by means of multi-level bayonet type connections. The connection in the example has the
lower sleeve 3 with two sets of shaped grooves, each set comprising a plurality oftransverse grooves 19 connected by alongitudinal groove 20.Upper sleeve 14 has apin member 21 which fits intogrooves upper sleeve 14 relative tolower sleeve 3, or vice versa, themember 21 can move betweentransverse grooves 19 by means of the longitudinal groove, and hence vary the volume of the container. - It will thus be seen that the present invention provides a container wherein the volume of the container can be varied so as to minimise the amount of air in the container.
- Where in the aforegoing description, reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents, then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.
- Although this invention has been described by way of example and with reference to possible embodiments thereof, it is to be appreciated that improvements and/or modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention, and in the appended claims.
- Further preferred aspects of the invention are set out in the following numbered paragraphs:
- 1. A container comprising an inner flexible member substantially enclosed in a number of interlocking outer sleeves wherein the volume of the inner flexible member can be varied by moving at least one outer sleeve relative to another outer sleeve.
- 2. A container according to
paragraph 1 including an upper outer sleeve and a lower outer sleeve. - 3. A container according to
paragraph 2 wherein the upper outer sleeve has an externally threaded opening. - 4. A container according to either
paragraphs - 5. A container according to any one of
paragraphs 2 to 4 wherein the inner flexible member is permanently secured to the upper outer sleeve. - 6. A container according to either
paragraphs 3 or 4 wherein a lip of the inner flexible member protrudes through the externally threaded opening, so as to provide a seal between the inner flexible member and a cap. - 7. A container according to any one of
paragraphs 1 to 6 wherein the outer sleeves are screw threaded together. - 8. A container according to any one of
paragraphs 2 to 6 wherein the outer sleeves move relative to each other by means of a ratchet. - 9. A container according to
paragraph 8 wherein the upper sleeve includes at least two sets of externally projecting teeth. - 10. A container according to
paragraph 9 wherein a pawl handle on the lower sleeve is provided for each series of externally projecting teeth. - 11. A container according to
paragraph 10 wherein movement of the handle between teeth causes the ratchet connection to be released, and hence the volume of the container to increase. - 12. A container according to
paragraph 9 wherein rotation of the upper and lower sleeves causes the volume of the container to vary. - 13. A container according to any one of
paragraphs 2 to 6 wherein the outer sleeves move relative to each other by means of a multi-level bayonet type connection. - 14. A container according to
paragraph 13 wherein the bayonet type connection is formed in either the lower or upper sleeve with at least two sets of shaped grooves, each set comprising a plurality of transverse grooves connected by a longitudinal groove. - 15. A container according to
paragraph 14 wherein at least two pin members extend from either the lower or upper sleeve and each pin member fits into a set of shaped grooves in the other sleeve. - 16. A container according to
paragraph 15 wherein rotation of the upper and lower sleeves causes the pin member to move in a twist or push/pull action between the transverse grooves by means of the longitudinal groove and hence to vary the volume of the container. - 17. A container according to any one of the preceding paragraphs wherein the container is sealed by means of a cap.
- 18. A container according to
paragraph 17 wherein the cap includes a closure with a skirt. - 19. A container according to paragraph 18 wherein the skirt has a float and a button section.
- 20. A container according to
paragraph 19 wherein as the volume of the container is decreased, air escapes through a passage between the outer edge of the skirt and inner surface of the closure. - 21. A container according to
paragraph 20 wherein when a flowable material reaches the float, the float rises, gradually shutting off the passage between the outer edge of the skirt and inner surface of the closure. - 22. A container substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- 23. A variable volume container comprising an exterior casing with an inner flexible bladder, the internal volume of which is adjusted by moving one end of the bladder by any suitable means, so that in use the volume of the flexible bladder and the volume of its contents are substantially the same.
- 24. A variable volume container substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
-
Claims (18)
- A container comprising an inner flexible member substantially enclosed in a number of interlocking outer sleeves wherein the volume of the inner flexible member can be varied by moving at least one outer sleeve relative to another outer sleeve, said container being sealable by means of a cap which comprises a closure with a skirt, said skirt having a float and a button section;
the arrangement being such that air can escape through a passage between an outer edge of the skirt and an inner surface of the closure as the volume of the container is reduced until flowable material within the flexible member reaches the float, whereupon the float will rise causing the skirt to gradually shut off the passage. - A container according to claim 1, wherein the adjacent outer sleeves are inseparable.
- A container according to claim 1, wherein adjacent outer sleeves are separable upon release of a locking mechanism.
- A container according to any preceding claim comprising an upper outer sleeve and a lower outer sleeve.
- A container according to claim 4, wherein the upper outer sleeve has an externally threaded opening.
- A container according to Claim 4 or 5, wherein the inner flexible member is fixed to the base of the lower outer sleeve.
- A container according to any of claims 4 to 6, wherein the inner flexible member is permanently secured to the upper outer sleeve.
- A container according to claim 5, wherein a lip of the inner flexible member protrudes through the externally threaded opening, so as to provide a seal between the inner flexible member and the cap.
- A container according to any preceding claim, wherein the outer sleeves are screw threaded together.
- A container according to any preceding claim, wherein the outer sleeves move relative to one another by means of a ratchet.
- A container according to claim 10, wherein the upper sleeve includes at least two sets of externally projecting teeth.
- A container according to claim 11, wherein a pawl handle on the lower sleeve is provided for each series of externally projecting teeth.
- A container according to claim 12, wherein movement of the handle between teeth causes the ratchet connection to be released, and hence the volume of the container to increase.
- A container according to claim 13, wherein rotation of the upper and lower sleeves causes the volume of the container to vary.
- A container according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the outer sleeves move relative to one another by means of a multi-level bayonet type connection.
- A container according to claim 15, wherein the bayonet type connection is formed in either the lower or upper sleeve with at least two sets of shaped grooves, each set comprises a plurality of transverse grooves connected by a longitudinal groove.
- A container according to claim 16, wherein at least two pin members extend from either the lower or upper sleeve and each pin member fits into a set of shaped grooves in the other sleeve.
- A container according to claim 17, wherein rotation of the upper and lower sleeves causes the pin member to move in a twist or push/pull action between the transverse grooves by means of the longitudinal groove and hence to vary the volume of the container.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
NZ27048895 | 1995-02-13 | ||
NZ27048895 | 1995-02-13 | ||
EP96902518A EP0809590B1 (en) | 1995-02-13 | 1996-02-13 | Containers with variable volume |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP96902518A Division EP0809590B1 (en) | 1995-02-13 | 1996-02-13 | Containers with variable volume |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP1078860A1 true EP1078860A1 (en) | 2001-02-28 |
Family
ID=19925141
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP96902518A Expired - Lifetime EP0809590B1 (en) | 1995-02-13 | 1996-02-13 | Containers with variable volume |
EP00202933A Withdrawn EP1078860A1 (en) | 1995-02-13 | 1996-02-13 | Containers with variable volume |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP96902518A Expired - Lifetime EP0809590B1 (en) | 1995-02-13 | 1996-02-13 | Containers with variable volume |
Country Status (10)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (2) | EP0809590B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JPH11500089A (en) |
KR (1) | KR19980702202A (en) |
CN (2) | CN1077066C (en) |
AT (1) | ATE207441T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU4680096A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2212876A1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE69616287D1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO1996025337A1 (en) |
ZA (1) | ZA961142B (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP1524194A1 (en) * | 2003-10-06 | 2005-04-20 | Masharu Tamashiro | Container for packing soft drinks with adjustment of the inside volume |
CN102935914A (en) * | 2012-11-22 | 2013-02-20 | 深圳市华星光电技术有限公司 | Packing case and retaining wall for same |
Families Citing this family (26)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE19742732C2 (en) * | 1997-09-26 | 2002-04-25 | Astrium Gmbh | transport container |
FR2781763B1 (en) * | 1998-07-31 | 2000-09-08 | Robert Planet | RECYCLABLE, RECYCLABLE RECESSABLE PLASTIC CONVERTIBLE PLASTIC BOTTLES OR PACKS, PACKS OF BUILT-IN LIQUIDS AND MULTI-PURPOSE CAPS |
DE10003421A1 (en) * | 2000-01-26 | 2001-08-02 | Heinrich Sauter Fabrik Tech Fe | Ornamental container is made up of cylindrical sections in form of spiral springs screwed into connecting components which are also spiral springs |
JP4800165B2 (en) * | 2006-09-29 | 2011-10-26 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Component supply device and surface mounter |
TWI408082B (en) * | 2010-12-31 | 2013-09-11 | Univ Shu Te | Pack container |
JP5059979B1 (en) * | 2012-01-23 | 2012-10-31 | 秀幸 今喜多 | Variable capacity container |
US20140305935A1 (en) * | 2013-04-16 | 2014-10-16 | Dart Industries Inc. | Expanding food storage container |
DK2904914T3 (en) | 2014-02-05 | 2017-01-30 | Imp Tobacco Ltd | Container for snuff, tobacco or smoking related products and methods |
JP5876604B1 (en) * | 2015-03-20 | 2016-03-02 | 涼 福田 | Food containers for viscous materials |
CN104787492A (en) * | 2015-04-24 | 2015-07-22 | 南京市妇幼保健院 | Rotary liquid discharge type container |
GB201510503D0 (en) | 2015-06-16 | 2015-07-29 | Fiedler & Lundgren Ab | Container |
GB201510505D0 (en) | 2015-06-16 | 2015-07-29 | Fiedler & Lundgren Ab | Container |
CN105772126B (en) * | 2016-04-26 | 2019-03-01 | 陶栋梁 | A kind of container of waterproof gas-tight |
CN106181936A (en) * | 2016-08-30 | 2016-12-07 | 安吉印象家具有限公司 | The most continuously adjustable box |
WO2018078502A1 (en) * | 2016-10-25 | 2018-05-03 | Alan Mark Crawley | Improvements in double-walled containers |
CN108146780A (en) * | 2017-10-30 | 2018-06-12 | 大连民族大学 | A kind of adjustable container in space |
CN108146782A (en) * | 2017-12-26 | 2018-06-12 | 湛江紫荆羽绒制品有限公司 | A kind of natural feather storage device convenient for change volume size |
CN108297481A (en) * | 2018-01-31 | 2018-07-20 | 六安维奥智能科技有限公司 | A kind of variable cup body dixie cup and its production method |
CN109630893B (en) * | 2019-01-11 | 2020-09-04 | 宁波润华全芯微电子设备有限公司 | Continuous stable liquid supply system |
CN109592180A (en) * | 2019-01-24 | 2019-04-09 | 河南憧椽商贸有限公司 | A kind of novel fruits transport case |
JP6716061B1 (en) * | 2019-03-19 | 2020-07-01 | 广州克力労保用品有限公司 | Capacity expansion package |
CN110723385A (en) * | 2019-07-02 | 2020-01-24 | 四川省阆中中学校 | Deterioration-proof beverage bottle |
CN110342064B (en) * | 2019-07-10 | 2021-06-04 | 绍兴市振尹纺织品有限公司 | Portable beverage bottle with variable volume |
CN111977130A (en) * | 2020-07-16 | 2020-11-24 | 灵璧县亨哼食品有限公司 | Telescopic food packaging barrel |
US20220281643A1 (en) * | 2021-03-08 | 2022-09-08 | Shih-Yao Chen | Retractable carrying container |
CN112938118B (en) * | 2021-05-17 | 2021-09-21 | 烟台华皓电子科技有限公司 | Magnetic repulsion type liquid container opened on basis of tilting |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4046279A (en) * | 1974-04-19 | 1977-09-06 | Hilti Aktiengesellschaft | Packing container for objects of variable lengths |
GB2127494A (en) * | 1982-08-18 | 1984-04-11 | Kwaun Peng Koh | Portable dispenser for semi-solids |
US4456134A (en) * | 1982-01-22 | 1984-06-26 | Leonard Cooper | Apparatus for containment of carbonated beverages |
GB2275675A (en) * | 1993-03-06 | 1994-09-07 | Stephen Graham Rutherford | Ventable closure for pressurized containers |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3955698A (en) * | 1975-01-13 | 1976-05-11 | Hammer Ilse M | Nursing bottle for collapsible liquid containers |
US4429811A (en) * | 1982-01-07 | 1984-02-07 | Bakeman Delbert C | Liquid storage container assembly and decanter |
US4450982A (en) * | 1982-07-22 | 1984-05-29 | Ferreira Americo S | Toothpaste dispenser |
AU549154B2 (en) * | 1982-12-07 | 1986-01-16 | Motion, J.A.C. | Collapsible tube expressor |
CH657354A5 (en) * | 1984-07-04 | 1986-08-29 | Battelle Memorial Institute | BEVERAGE DISPENSER CONTAINER LIKELY TO RELEASE GAS SOLUTION. |
DE3606711A1 (en) * | 1986-03-01 | 1987-09-03 | Bramlage Gmbh | DONOR |
US5238150A (en) * | 1991-02-01 | 1993-08-24 | William Dispenser Corporation | Dispenser with compressible piston assembly for expelling product from a collapsible reservoir |
US5356037A (en) * | 1993-06-21 | 1994-10-18 | Pakmax, Inc. | Lift and drop ratchet stick dispenser |
-
1996
- 1996-02-13 WO PCT/NZ1996/000008 patent/WO1996025337A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1996-02-13 KR KR1019970705597A patent/KR19980702202A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1996-02-13 JP JP8524862A patent/JPH11500089A/en active Pending
- 1996-02-13 EP EP96902518A patent/EP0809590B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1996-02-13 CA CA002212876A patent/CA2212876A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1996-02-13 DE DE69616287T patent/DE69616287D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1996-02-13 CN CN96192281A patent/CN1077066C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1996-02-13 AU AU46800/96A patent/AU4680096A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1996-02-13 AT AT96902518T patent/ATE207441T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1996-02-13 ZA ZA961142A patent/ZA961142B/en unknown
- 1996-02-13 EP EP00202933A patent/EP1078860A1/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2000
- 2000-12-08 CN CN00134970A patent/CN1295011A/en active Pending
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4046279A (en) * | 1974-04-19 | 1977-09-06 | Hilti Aktiengesellschaft | Packing container for objects of variable lengths |
US4456134A (en) * | 1982-01-22 | 1984-06-26 | Leonard Cooper | Apparatus for containment of carbonated beverages |
GB2127494A (en) * | 1982-08-18 | 1984-04-11 | Kwaun Peng Koh | Portable dispenser for semi-solids |
GB2275675A (en) * | 1993-03-06 | 1994-09-07 | Stephen Graham Rutherford | Ventable closure for pressurized containers |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP1524194A1 (en) * | 2003-10-06 | 2005-04-20 | Masharu Tamashiro | Container for packing soft drinks with adjustment of the inside volume |
CN102935914A (en) * | 2012-11-22 | 2013-02-20 | 深圳市华星光电技术有限公司 | Packing case and retaining wall for same |
CN102935914B (en) * | 2012-11-22 | 2015-06-10 | 深圳市华星光电技术有限公司 | Packing case and retaining wall for same |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN1177325A (en) | 1998-03-25 |
CN1077066C (en) | 2002-01-02 |
ATE207441T1 (en) | 2001-11-15 |
JPH11500089A (en) | 1999-01-06 |
KR19980702202A (en) | 1998-07-15 |
EP0809590B1 (en) | 2001-10-24 |
WO1996025337A1 (en) | 1996-08-22 |
MX9706444A (en) | 1998-07-31 |
DE69616287D1 (en) | 2001-11-29 |
ZA961142B (en) | 1996-10-23 |
CA2212876A1 (en) | 1996-08-22 |
EP0809590A1 (en) | 1997-12-03 |
EP0809590A4 (en) | 1998-05-27 |
AU4680096A (en) | 1996-09-04 |
CN1295011A (en) | 2001-05-16 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6484897B1 (en) | Containers with variable volume | |
EP1078860A1 (en) | Containers with variable volume | |
ES2372657T3 (en) | CONTAINER COVER FOR LIQUIDS WITH DISPENSING MECHANISM AND SEALED CLOSURE. | |
US4456134A (en) | Apparatus for containment of carbonated beverages | |
US6234338B1 (en) | Beverage container closures | |
US11224301B2 (en) | Beverage container open indicator | |
KR20070012341A (en) | Device for sealing food product container and food product container provided with such a device | |
US20050115632A1 (en) | Vacuum bottle cap | |
AU2004215419A1 (en) | Squeezable beverage bottle | |
CA2645002A1 (en) | Collapsible bottle | |
EP1049633A1 (en) | Closure cap with braking structure | |
AU724889B2 (en) | Containers with variable volume | |
CN1338906A (en) | Lid for recipients | |
US20230211937A1 (en) | Variable Volume Evacuable Container | |
AU5948799A (en) | Containers with variable volume | |
NZ335696A (en) | Container having variable volume and float for releasing gas and closed by rising fluid | |
MXPA97006444A (en) | Containers of volume varia | |
BRPI0715093A2 (en) | container and lid and necklace | |
US5385277A (en) | Carbonated beverage bottle handle, pour and storage device | |
KR100732866B1 (en) | cap of storage vessel | |
KR100755035B1 (en) | cap of storage vessel | |
KR200277791Y1 (en) | The tube continer which is forming airblock check valve on the outlet | |
KR100696676B1 (en) | Cap of storage vessel | |
RU2776053C1 (en) | Metal vessel with threaded capping means | |
KR200259351Y1 (en) | The receptacle with outlet structure of viscosity contents |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
AC | Divisional application: reference to earlier application |
Ref document number: 809590 Country of ref document: EP |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE |
|
AKX | Designation fees paid | ||
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20011112 |
|
RBV | Designated contracting states (corrected) |
Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: 8566 |
|
17Q | First examination report despatched |
Effective date: 20020117 |
|
GRAH | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA |
|
GRAS | Grant fee paid |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED |
|
18D | Application deemed to be withdrawn |
Effective date: 20040901 |
|
19U | Interruption of proceedings before grant |
Effective date: 20040602 |
|
D18D | Application deemed to be withdrawn (deleted) | ||
19W | Proceedings resumed before grant after interruption of proceedings |
Effective date: 20210601 |
|
PUAJ | Public notification under rule 129 epc |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009425 |
|
32PN | Public notification |
Free format text: COMMUNICATION PURSUANT TO RULE 142 EPC (RESUMPTION OF PROCEEDINGS UNDER RULE 142(2) EPC DATED 17.03.2021) |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION IS DEEMED TO BE WITHDRAWN |
|
18D | Application deemed to be withdrawn |
Effective date: 20211202 |