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
  • B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D43/02—Removable lids or covers
  • B65D43/0202—Removable lids or covers without integral tamper element
• • 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
  • B65D1/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies formed in one piece, e.g. by casting metallic material, by moulding plastics, by blowing vitreous material, by throwing ceramic material, by moulding pulped fibrous material or by deep-drawing operations performed on sheet material
  • B65D1/34—Trays or like shallow 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
  • B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D43/14—Non-removable lids or covers
  • B65D43/16—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement
  • B65D43/161—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement comprising two or more cover sections hinged one to another
• • 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
  • B65D77/10—Container closures formed after filling
  • B65D77/20—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers, i.e. flexible membrane or foil-like covers
  • B65D77/2024—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers, i.e. flexible membrane or foil-like covers the cover being welded or adhered to the container
  • B65D77/2068—Means for reclosing the cover after its first opening
  • B65D77/2072—Mechanical means
  • B65D77/2076—Mechanical means provided by the cover itself
• • 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
  • B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
  • B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D2543/00018—Overall construction of the lid
  • B65D2543/00064—Shape of the outer periphery
  • B65D2543/00074—Shape of the outer periphery curved
  • B65D2543/00092—Shape of the outer periphery curved circular
• • 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
  • B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
  • B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D2543/00018—Overall construction of the lid
  • B65D2543/00064—Shape of the outer periphery
  • B65D2543/00074—Shape of the outer periphery curved
  • B65D2543/00101—Shape of the outer periphery curved square-like or rectangular-like
• • 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
  • B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
  • B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D2543/00018—Overall construction of the lid
  • B65D2543/00259—Materials used
  • B65D2543/00268—Paper
• • 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
  • B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
  • B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D2543/00342—Central part of the lid
  • B65D2543/00351—Dome-like

Definitions

• the present invention relates generally to paper containers. More particularly, the present invention relates to releasably attaching container assemblies and containers therein with cohesives.
• a paper container assembly comprises first and second paper containers.
• the first paper container includes a first continuous body portion and a first rim having a first surface.
• the first rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the first body portion.
• the first surface of the first rim includes a first cohesive.
• the second paper container includes a second continuous body portion and a second rim having a second surface.
• the second rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the second body portion.
• the second surface of the second rim includes a second cohesive.
• the first container and the second container are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the first and second rims together such that the first cohesive and the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
• a paper container assembly is formed by providing a first paper container that includes a first continuous body portion and a first rim having a first surface.
• the first rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the l first body portion.
• the first surface of the first rim includes a first cohesive.
• a second paper container is provided that includes a second continuous body portion and a second rim having a second surface.
• the second rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the second body portion.
• the second surface of the second rim includes a second cohesive.
• One of the first container and the second container is flipped such that the first container and second container are generally aligned and the first rim and the second rim are adjacent to each other.
• the first and second rims are pressed together such that the first cohesive and the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
• a paper container to be used in a paper container assembly comprises a continuous body portion and a rim having a first surface.
• the rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the body portion.
• the first surface of the rim includes a first cohesive.
• the rim is adapted to be releasably attachable by pressing the rim together with a rim having a second cohesive of a second container such that the first and second cohesives are in contact with each other.
• a paper container assembly comprises a first paper container and a second paper container.
• the first paper container includes a first continuous body portion, a first handle and a second handle.
• the first and second handles encompass and project laterally outwardly from the first body portion.
• the first handle includes a first cohesive.
• the second handle includes a second cohesive.
• the second paper container includes a second continuous body portion, a third handle and a fourth handle.
• the third and fourth handles encompass and project laterally outwardly from the second body portion.
• the third handle includes a third cohesive, while the fourth handle includes a fourth cohesive.
• the first container and the second container are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the first handle and the third handle together such that the first cohesive and the third cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other and pressing the second handle and the fourth handle together such that the second cohesive and the fourth cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
• a paper container assembly is formed using first and second paper containers.
• the first paper container is provided that includes a first continuous body portion, a first handle, and a second handle.
• the first and second handles encompass and project laterally outwardly from the first body portion.
• the first handle includes a first cohesive, while the second handle includes a second cohesive.
• the second paper container is provided that includes a second continuous body portion, a third handle and a fourth handle.
• the third and fourth handles encompass and project laterally outwardly from the second body portion.
• the third handle includes a third cohesive, while the fourth handle includes a fourth cohesive.
• One of the first container and the second container is flipped such that the first and second handles of the first container are generally aligned with respective third and fourth handles of the second container.
• the first and third handles are pressed together such that the first cohesive and the third cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
• the second and fourth handles are pressed together such that the second cohesive and the fourth cohesive contact and releas
• a paper container to be used in a container assembly comprises a continuous body portion, a first handle and a second handle.
• the first and second handles encompass and project laterally outwardly from the body portion.
• the first and second handles include a first cohesive.
• the first and second handles are adapted to be releasably attachable to another container by pressing the first and second handles with respective third and fourth handles having a second cohesive of a second container.
• a hinged paper container comprises a paper base and a paper lid.
• the paper base includes a first continuous body portion and a first rim having a first surface.
• the first rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the first body portion.
• the first surface of the first rim includes a first cohesive.
• the paper lid includes a second continuous body portion and a second rim having a second surface.
• the second rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the second body portion.
• the second surface of the second rim includes a second cohesive.
• the lid is hingedly attached to the base.
• the first rim and the second rim are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the first and second rims together such that the first cohesive and the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
• a hinged paper container is formed by providing a paper base including a first continuous body portion and a first rim having a first surface.
• the first rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the first body portion.
• the first surface of the first rim includes a first cohesive.
• a paper lid is provided that includes a second continuous body portion and a second rim having a second surface.
• the second rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the second body portion.
• the second surface of the second rim includes a second cohesive.
• the lid is hingedly attached to the base. The first and second rims are pressed together such that the first cohesive and the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
• a paper container comprises a paper base and a paper lid.
• the paper base includes a first continuous body portion and a first rim.
• the first rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the first body portion.
• the paper Hd includes a second continuous body portion and a second rim.
• the second rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the second body portion.
• Either the base or the lid forms a tab and the other of the base and the lid forms a slot.
• the tab has a surface that includes a second cohesive.
• the other of the base and the lid has a surface including a second cohesive.
• the base and lid are releasably attachable to each other by extending the tab into the slot such that the first cohesive and the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
• a paper container assembly comprises a first paper container and a second paper container.
• the first paper container includes a first continuous body portion and a first flap integrally connected to and extending therefrom.
• the first continuous body portion has a first surface located opposite of the first flap.
• the first surface has a first cohesive.
• the first flap has a first inner surface including a second cohesive.
• the second paper container includes a second continuous body portion and a second flap integrally connected to and extending therefrom.
• the second body portion has a second surface located opposite of the second flap.
• the second surface has a third cohesive.
• the second flap has a second inner surface including a fourth cohesive.
• the first paper container and the second paper container are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by contacting the first and fourth cohesives and contacting the second and third cohesives.
• FIG. Ia is an exploded view of a container assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. Ib is a view of the container assembly of FIG. Ia in a closed position.
• FIG. Ic is an enlarged partial view of the container assembly of FIG. Ib.
• FIG. 2 in an enlarged partial view of a container assembly generally showing a rim region according to another embodiment in a closed position.
• FIG. 3 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly generally showing a rim region according to a further embodiment in a closed position.
• FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly generally showing a rim region according to a yet another embodiment in a closed position.
• FIG. 5a is a side view of a container to be used in a container assembly according to one embodiment.
• FIG. 5b is a top view of the container of FIG. 5a.
• FIG. 5c is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken generally along lines 5c-5c in FIG. 5b.
• FIG. 6a is a side view of a container assembly in a releasably lockable position using the container of FIG. 5a and a second identical container of FIG. 5a according to one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 6b is a top view of the container assembly of FIG. 6a.
• FIG. 6c is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken generally along lines 6c-6c in FIG. 6b.
• FIG. 7a is a top view of a container with a plurality of handles to be used in a container assembly according to one embodiment.
• FIG. 7b is a side view of a container assembly in a releasably lockable position using the container of FIG. 7a and a second identical container of FIG. 7a according to one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 7c is an enlarged partial view of the container assembly generally showing a handle region of FIG. 7b.
• FIG. 8 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly generally showing a handle region according to another embodiment in a closed position.
• FIG. 9 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly generally showing a handle region according to a further embodiment in a closed position.
• FIG. 10 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly generally showing a handle region according to a yet another embodiment in a closed position.
• FIG. l la is a perspective view of a hinged container according to one embodiment of the invention in an open position.
• FIG. 1 Ib is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 Ia in the closed position.
• FIG. 1 Ic is an enlarged partial view of the hinged container of FIG. 1 Ib.
• FIG. 12a is a perspective view of a hinged container according to another embodiment of the invention in an open position.
• FIG. 12b-d are enlarged partial views of the hinged container of FIG. 12a generally directed to the rims in open and closed positions according to one embodiment.
• FIG. 13a is a front view of a container with a flap to be used in a container assembly according to one embodiment.
• FIG. 13b is a side view of the container of FIG. 13a.
• FIG. 13c is a side view of a container assembly in a releasably lockable position using the container of FIG. 13a and a second identical container of FIG. 13a according to one embodiment of the present invention.
• the container assembly includes a container 10 and a second container 110.
• the containers 10, 110 may be substantially the same or, alternatively, identical to the container 10 to form a container assembly that is releasably lockable.
• container assemblies may be formed besides those in FIGs. la-c.
• container assemblies may be formed, but are not limited to, using plates, bowls, platters, tubs, single-serve and family-size containers, single-serve and family-size ovenware, and combinations thereof.
• One such combination is a bowl and a plate that forms a container assembly.
• the remainder of the application generally discusses container and container assemblies with respect to plates although it is recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art that other container assemblies, such as those discussed above, may be formed.
• the height and shape of the container assemblies may vaiy from that shown without departing from the scope of the invention.
• the container assembly of FIGs. la-c as will be discussed, is depicted as being generally circular. It is contemplated that the container assemblies and containers used herein may be other shapes such as rectangular, square, hexagonal, octagonal, other polygonal shapes, or non- polygonal shapes such as ovals.
• the container assemblies and containers of the present invention are typically used with respect to food, but may be used in other applications such as to store household goods, medical supplies, cosmetics or other items.
• Food container assemblies and containers may be used for serving, storing, preparing and/or re-heating the food.
• the paper container 10 includes a continuous body portion 12 and a continuous rim 14 encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the body portion 12.
• the body portion 12 includes a bottom 16 and a continuous sidewall 18 encompassing and projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 16. It is contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly from the bottom 16 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the bottom 16. It is also contemplated that the rim may not be continuous, although it is desirably continuous.
• the rim 14 includes a surface 14a (upper surface of container 10 in FIG. Ia).
• the rim 14 includes a cohesive 20.
• Cohesive is defined herein as a material that will adhere to itself.
• a type of cohesive that may be used is a water-soluble cohesive.
• a cohesive that may be used is Product No. C-2159P85, which is a cohesive available from Ellsworth Adhesives. This particular cohesive will stick to itself at temperatures of from about 20 to about 400 0 F.
• Non-water soluble cohesives may have disadvantages such as (a) gaining FDA approval in applications involving food, and (b) possible reactions with the paper containers themselves.
• the cohesives of the present invention generally have a pull strength of greater than about 0.5 Ib. and, typically, have a pull strength of greater than 1.0 Ib.
• the cohesive 20 is shown in FIG. Ia as being continuously applied around and in the general shape of the rim surface 14a. It is contemplated that the cohesive may be applied to the entire surface of the rim rather than a portion shown in, for example, FIG. Ia. According to another embodiment, the cohesive is applied to substantial portions of the rim surface. The cohesive may also be applied intermittently around the rim such as in a pattern.
• the cohesive 20 may be applied to the rim 14 by a variety of methods.
• the cohesive may be sprayed onto the rim.
• the spraying may be performed in patterns to efficiently use the cohesive, while still providing a desired holding strength.
• the cohesive may be printed onto the rim.
• Non-limiting printing techniques that may be used include silk screening, flexo printing, and electrostatic screen printing. Any application method may be used for applying the cohesive 20 to the rim 14 provided that it enables a sufficient amount of cohesive 20 to be applied to achieve the desired holding strength.
• the paper container 1 10 includes a continuous body portion 112 and a continuous rim 1 14 encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the body portion 118.
• the body portion 112 includes a bottom 1 16 and a continuous sidewall 118 encompassing and projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 116. It is contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly from the bottom 1 16 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the bottom 116. It is also contemplated that the rim may not be continuous, although it is desirably continuous.
• the rim 1 14 includes a surface 1 14a (bottom-most surface of container 1 10 in FIG. Ia).
• the rim 1 14 includes a cohesive 120 (see FIG. Ic).
• the cohesive may be the same as described above in connection with cohesive 20.
• the cohesives 20, 120 are typically the same. It is contemplated that the cohesives may be different as long as the cohesives 20, 120 can releasably attach to each other.
• the paper containers 10, 1 10 are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the rims 14, 1 14 together such that the cohesives 20, 120 contact and releasably attach to each other.
• the rim 14 forms at least one recess 30 therein.
• the rim 114 forms at least one recess 130 therein.
• the recess 30 includes the cohesive 20, while the recess 130 includes the cohesive 120.
• the paper containers 10, 110 are releasably attached only after the rims 14, 1 14 are pressed together because the cohesives 20, 120 are initially located only below a remaining surface of the rims 14, 1 14.
• FIG. Ic shows the attached paper containers 10, 110 after the rims 14, 1 14 have been pressed together.
• a container assembly may include rims in which each rim forms a plurality of recesses.
• a rim 44 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12).
• the rim 44 forms a plurality of recesses 46a,b in which each of the recesses contains a respective one of cohesives 50a,b.
• the rim 44 is pressed together with a rim 144, which includes a plurality of recesses 146a,b in which each of the recesses contains a respective one of cohesives 150a,b.
• the rims 44, 144 function in a similar manner as rims 14, 1 14 described above. It is contemplated that the number of recesses and the dimensions of the recesses may vaiy from that shown in FIG. 2.
• a container assembly may include rims in which each rim forms a plurality of ripples.
• a rim 64 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12).
• the rim 64 forms a plurality of ripples 66a-c projecting generally upwardly therefrom with respective spaces 68a,b being formed between adjacent ones of the plurality of ripples 66a-c.
• Each of the spaces 68a,b contains a respective cohesive 70a,b.
• the rim 64 is pressed together with a rim 164, which forms a plurality of ripples 166a-c projecting generally upwardly therefrom with respective spaces 168a,b being formed between adjacent ones of the plurality of ripples 166a-c.
• Each of the spaces 168a,b contains a respective cohesive 170a,b.
• the containers that contain the rims 64, 164 are releasably attachable to each other by pressing the rims 64, 164 together such that the cohesives 70a,b contact and releasably attach to the respective cohesives 170a,b. It is contemplated that the number of ripples may vary from that shown in FIG. 3.
• a container assembly may include rims in which each rim has a surface that is generally planar.
• a rim 74 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from a body portion ( ⁇ ? g., body portion 12).
• a cohesive 80 contacts a surface 74a of the rim 74 (upper surface of rim 74 as viewed in FIG. 4).
• the rim 74 is pressed together with a rim 174, in which a cohesive 180 contacts a surface 174a of the rim 174 (lower surface of rim as viewed in FIG. 4).
• a paper container 210 includes a continuous body portion 212 and a continuous rim 214 encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the body portion 212.
• the body portion 212 includes a bottom 216 and a continuous sidewall 218 encompassing and projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 216. It is contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly from the bottom 216 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the bottom 216. It is also contemplated that the rim may not be continuous, although it is desirably continuous.
• the continuous rim 214 includes a plurality of ribs 220 that projects generally upwardly therefrom.
• the plurality of ribs 220 is spaced around the general periphery of the paper container 210 and assists in forming a releasably lockable container assembly.
• the orientation of the plurality of ribs 220 creates a pattern that is generally normal to the direction of the rim 214. More specifically, the orientation of the plurality of ribs 220 may create a pattern that is normal to the direction of the rim 14. In a radial configuration with a pattern that is normal to the direction of the rim, each of the plurality of ribs 220, if extended inwardly, would pass through the general center of the plate. It is contemplated that other features besides the plurality of ribs may project upwardly from the continuous rim.
• the plurality of ribs 220 may be formed in different patterns than shown in FIG. 5b with respect to the rim 214 ⁇ e.g., diagonally). It may be desirable to form the plurality of ribs 220 in a decorative pattern for aesthetic reasons. Such a decorative feature may assist in "hiding” or disguising the releasable lockable feature in the container 210.
• the container 210 of FIG. 5b has exactly 60 ribs formed in the continuous rim 214. It is contemplated that the number of ribs may vary from that shown in FIG. 5b. For example, a container may have from about 3 to about 10 ribs. A container may have greater than about 20 or about 40 ribs, and may even have up to or greater than about 120 ribs. The number of ribs is generally from about 20 to about 60 ribs.
• FIG. 5c the plurality of ribs 220 is shown in greater detail. Specifically, a cross-sectional view of FIG. 5c shows two adjacent ribs that project upwardly from the continuous rim 214.
• FIG. 5c depicts a first rib 220a and a second rib 220b with a space 222 being formed therebetween.
• the first rib 220a of FIG. 5c comprises a generally flat surface 224 that bridges two sidewalls 226, 228.
• the first rib 220a is shown as being generally perpendicular to the plane of the remainder of the continuous rim 14.
• the first rib 220a is shown as being generally perpendicular to plane CC formed along the remainder of the rim 214 in FIG.
• the rib may be perpendicular to the plane of the remainder of the rim.
• the sidewalls 226, 228 are spaced apart from each other and are shown as being generally perpendicular to the plane CC of the remainder of the rim 214.
• second rib 220b of FIG. 5c comprises a generally flat surface 230 that bridges two sidewalls 232, 234.
• the second rib 220b is also shown as being generally perpendicular to the plane CC of the remainder of the rim 214.
• the sidewalls 232, 234 are spaced apart from each other and are shown as being generally perpendicular to the plane CC of the remainder of the rim 14.
• the cohesive is added in the spaces formed between the ribs and added to a generally flat surface of the ribs themselves.
• cohesives 240a,b are added to the spaces formed between adjacent ribs.
• cohesives 242a,b are added to respective surfaces 224, 230.
• the cohesives may be the same as described above in connection with cohesive 20.
• At least one of the rib sidewalls may have an undercut.
• Such an optional undercut formed in the rib sidewall engages a similar undercut in a corresponding space formed between adjacent ribs of a second container when the container assembly is formed.
• optional undercuts 226a, 228a are formed in respective sidewalls 226, 228. It is contemplated that the shape and size of the plurality of ribs 220 may vaiy from that shown in FIGs. 5a-c.
• a paper container assembly 300 is depicted in FIGs. 6a-c.
• the paper container assembly 300 includes the first container 210 and a second container 310.
• the second container 310 is shaped substantially the same as the first container 210.
• the second container 310 may be identical to the first container 210.
• the paper container assembly 300 of FIGs. 6a,b may be formed according to one method by providing the first container 210 and the second container 310.
• the second container 310 includes a continuous body portion 312 and a continuous rim 314 that encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the body portion 312.
• the second container 310 is flipped 180 degrees relative to the first container 210 such that the containers 210, 310 are generally aligned and the rims 214, 314 are adjacent to each other. This flipped position of container 310 relative to the container 210 is shown in FIG. 6a.
• the container 310 may have to be rotated slightly such that the ribs are offset (i.e., the ribs and spaces are aligned). It is desirable that the consumer can assemble the containers so as to form a container assembly of the present invention.
• adjacent ribs 320a, 320b of the container 310 are fit into respective second spaces 222a, 222b of the container 210 and ribs 220a, 220b of the container 210 are fit into respective spaces 322a, 322b such that the container assembly 300 is releasably lockable.
• the container 310 may have to be rotated slightly such that the ribs are offset (i.e., the ribs and spaces are aligned).
• the cohesives 240a,b releasably attach with respective cohesives 250a,b, while cohesives 242a,b releasably attach with respective cohesives 252a,b.
• FIG. 6c also depicts interference areas 324a, 324b formed between the first rib 220a and the space 322a created between ribs 320a, 320b of the container 310.
• a paper container 410 includes a continuous body portion 412 and a plurality of handles 424, 426 encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the body portion 412.
• the body portion 412 includes a bottom 416 and a continuous sidewall 418 encompassing and projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 416. It is contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly from the bottom 416 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the bottom 416.
• Each of the plurality of handles 424, 426 includes a respective surface 424a, 426a (upper surface in FIG. 7a).
• the surfaces 424a, 426a form respective recesses that include a respective cohesive 420, 422 (see, e g , recess 430 of FIG. 7c).
• the cohesives 420, 422 may be the same as described above in connection with cohesive 20.
• the cohesives 420, 422 are typically the same. It is contemplated that the cohesives may be different as long as the cohesives can releasably attach to each other.
• a paper container assembly 400 includes the paper container 410 and a paper container 460.
• the paper container 460 includes a continuous body portion 462 and a plurality of handles 474, 476 encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the body portion 462.
• the body portion 462 includes a bottom 466 and a continuous sidewall 468 encompassing and projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 466.
• the orientation of the container 460 in FIG. 7b is opposite from that described above since the container 460 has been flipped 180 degrees. It is contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly from the bottom 466 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the bottom 466.
• Each of the plurality of handles 474, 476 includes a respective surface that forms a recess.
• Each of the recesses contains a respective cohesive.
• the handle 476 includes a surface 476a (bottom surface of container 460 in FIG. 7c) that forms a recess 480.
• the recess 480 contains cohesive 472.
• the cohesives used in the plurality of handles 424, 426, 474, and 476 may be the same as described above in connection with cohesive 20.
• the paper container 410 and the paper container 460 are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the plurality of handles 424, 426, 474, and 476 together such that respective cohesives contact and releasably attach to each other (see FIG. 7c with cohesives 422 and 472).
• each of the plurality of handles forms at least one recess therein.
• the handle 426 forms a recess 430 that includes the cohesive 422 and the handle 476 forms a recess 480 that includes the cohesive 472.
• recesses 430, 480 the paper containers 410, 460 are releasably attached only after the handles are pressed together because the cohesives 422, 472 are initially located only below the remaining surface of the handles 426, 476.
• FIG. 7c shows the paper containers 410, 460 after the handles have been pressed together.
• the other handles 424, 474 function in the same manner as the handles 426, 476 shown in FIG. 7c.
• a container assembly may include a plurality of handles that forms a plurality of recesses.
• a container assembly 510 includes a plurality of handles (handles 514, 524 are shown in FIG. 8).
• the handle 514 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12).
• the handle 514 forms a plurality of recesses 516a,b in which each of the recesses contains a respective one of the cohesives 520a,b.
• the handle 514 is pressed together with the handle 524, which includes a plurality of recesses 526a,b in which each of the recesses contains a respective one of the cohesives 530a,b.
• the handles 514, 524 function in a similar manner as handles 426, 476 described above. It is contemplated that the number of recesses may vary from that shown in FIG. 8.
• a container assembly may include a plurality of handles in which each handle forms a plurality of ripples.
• a container assembly 540 includes a plurality of handles (handles 544, 554 are shown in FIG. 9).
• the handle 544 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from a body portion ⁇ e.g., body portion 12).
• the handle 544 forms a plurality of ripples 546a-c projecting generally upwardly therefrom with respective spaces 548a,b being formed between adjacent ones of the plurality of ripples 546a-c.
• Each of the spaces 548a,b contains a respective cohesive 550a,b.
• the handle 544 is pressed together with the handle 554 of a second container.
• the handle 554 forms a plurality of ripples 556a-c projecting generally upwardly therefrom with respective spaces 558a,b being formed between adjacent ones of the plurality of ripples 556a-c.
• Each of the spaces 558a,b contains a respective cohesive 560a,b.
• the containers that contain the handles are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the handles together such that the cohesives 550a,b contact and releasably attach to respective cohesives 560a,b. It is contemplated that the number of ripples may vary from that shown in FIG. 9.
• a container assembly may include a plurality of handles with surfaces that are generally planar.
• a container assembly 570 includes a plurality of handles (handles 574, 584 are shown in FIG. 10).
• the handle 574 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12).
• a cohesive 5S0 contacts a surface 574a of the handle 574.
• the handle 574 is pressed together with the handle 584 of another container 580.
• the handle 584 includes a surface 5S4a that includes a cohesive 590.
• the cohesives 580, 590 contact each other and releasably attach to form the container assembly 570.
• a hinged paper container 600 comprises a paper base 610 and a paper lid 630 in which the lid 630 is hingedly attached to the paper base 610 via hinge 650.
• the paper base 610 includes a continuous body portion 612 and a continuous rim 614 having a surface 614a.
• the rim 614 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the body portion 612.
• the surface 614a of the rim 614 includes a cohesive 620.
• the paper lid 630 includes a continuous body portion 632 and a continuous rim 634 having a surface 634a.
• the rim 634 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the body portion 632.
• the surface 634a of the rim 634 includes a cohesive 640.
• the cohesives 620, 640 may be the same as described above in connection ⁇ vith cohesive 20.
• the cohesives 620, 640 are typically the same, but it is contemplated that the cohesives may be different as long as the cohesives can releasably attach to each other.
• the rims 614, 634 are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the rims 614, 634 together such that the cohesives 620, 640 contact and releasably attach to each other.
• the rims 614, 634 form a respective recess therein in which each of the recesses contains a cohesive.
• rims 614, 634 form respective recesses 628, 648 therein.
• the recesses 628, 648 include respective cohesives 620, 640.
• the height and shape of the hinged paper container may vary from that shown in FIGs. 1 la,b without departing from the scope of the invention.
• the hinged paper container of FIGs. l la,b is depicted as being generally square. It is contemplated that the hinged paper container may be other shapes such as circular, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, other polygonal shapes, or non-polygonal shapes such as ovals.
• the hinged paper container may contain the cohesives on rims that are shaped differently than depicted in FIGs. l la-c.
• the hinged paper container includes rims that form a plurality of recesses that contains cohesives such as rims 44, 144 of FIG. 2.
• the hinged paper container includes rims that form a plurality of ripples that contains cohesives such as rims 64, 164 in FIG. 3.
• the hinged paper container includes rims that has generally planar surfaces with cohesives such as rims 74, 174 in FIG. 4.
• a hinged paper container 700 comprises a paper base 710 and a paper lid 730 in which the lid 730 is hingedly attached to the paper base 710 via hinge 750.
• the paper base 710 includes a continuous body portion 712 and a continuous rim 714.
• the rim 714 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the body portion 712.
• the paper lid 730 includes a continuous body portion 732 and a continuous rim 734.
• the rim 734 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the body portion 732.
• the paper lid 730 forms a tab 760 and the paper base 710 forms a slot or opening 770 (see FIG. 12b).
• the tab 760 has a surface 760a that includes a cohesive 762.
• the base 710 includes the rim 714 with a surface 714a that includes a cohesive 772.
• the base 710 and Hd 730 are releasably attachable to each other by extending the tab 760 into the slot 770 such that the cohesives 762, 772 contact and releasably attach to each other.
• the tab 760 extends through the slot 770 and is adapted to bend (in the counterclockwise direction of arrow A) such that the cohesives 762, 772 contact and releasably attach to each other.
• the cohesives 762, 772 may be the same as described above in connection with cohesive 20.
• the cohesives 762, 772 are typically the same, but it is contemplated that the cohesives may be different as long as the cohesives can releasably attach to each other.
• the tab 760 may extend through the slot 770 and be pushed upwardly in a clockwise direction (the direction opposite of arrow A in FIG. 12c) such that cohesives contact and relesably attach to each other.
• a cohesive would be located on surface 760b as opposed to surface 760a (see FIG. 12b).
• the location of the cohesive on the paper base would be located to the left of slot 770 as viewed in FIGs. 12b.
• the slot or opening may be relocated further to the right as viewed in FIG. 12b to provide a greater surface area for the cohesives to attach to each other.
• the height and shape of the hinged paper container may vary from that shown in FIGs. 12a-d without departing from the scope of the invention.
• the hinged paper container of FIGs. 12a-d is depicted as being generally square. It is contemplated that the hinged paper container may be other shapes such as circular, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, other polygonal shapes, or non-polygonal shapes such as ovals. It is contemplated that the cohesive may be included on the rims such as shown in FIGs. l la-c.
• a paper container assembly 800 comprises a paper container 810 (FIGs. 13a-c) and a paper container 850 (FIG. 13c).
• the paper container 810 includes a continuous body portion 812 and a flap 814 integrally connected to and extending therefrom.
• the body portion 812 has a surface 812a located opposite of the flap 814.
• the surface S 12a includes a cohesive 820.
• the flap 814 has a surface 814a that includes a cohesive 830.
• the paper container 850 (FIG. 13c) includes a continuous body portion 852 and a flap 854 integrally connected to and extending therefrom.
• the body portion 852 has a surface 852a located opposite of the flap 854.
• the surface 852a includes a cohesive 870.
• the flap 854 has a surface 854a that includes a cohesive 880.
• the containers 810, 850 are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by contacting the cohesives 820, 880 and contacting the cohesives 830, 870 to each other.
• the cohesives 820, 830, 870, and 880 may be the same as described above in connection with cohesive 20.
• the cohesives 820, 830, 870, and 880 are typically the same, but it is contemplated that the cohesives may be different as long as the cohesives can releasably attach to each other.
• the container assembly may include a plurality of flaps.
• each of the paper containers forming the container assembly may include two flaps with cohesives.
• Each of these flaps is adapted to be releasably attachable to the other container by contacting the cohesives to each other.
• the container and container assemblies of the present invention are fo ⁇ ned from paper materials.
• the paper containers and container assemblies may be formed from materials such as paperboard, laminated paper or molded fiber. It is contemplated that one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other paper materials or combination of paper materials may be used to form the containers and container assemblies.
• the containers to be used in forming the container assemblies of the present invention may be formed, for example, by using conventional paper processing techniques.
• the containers and container assemblies of the present invention are typically disposable, but it is contemplated that they may be reused at a future time.
• the containers used in forming the container assemblies e.g., container 10) are shown as including one compartment. It is contemplated that the containers may be formed of multiple compartments.
• Such containers are desirable for placing items (e.g., food items) in different compartments to prevent or inhibit commingling of items. For example, undesirable mixing of food items can corrupt the flavor and the consistency of the food items.
• the container assemblies and containers of the present invention are typically used with respect to food, but may be used in other applications such as to store household goods, medical supplies, cosmetics or other items.
• Food container assemblies and containers may be used for serving, storing, preparing and/or re-heating the food.
• a method of using such container assemblies includes placing the food and locking the containers to form a container assembly with food therein.
• the container assembly is then placed in a heating apparatus and heated.
• Typical heating apparatuses include microwaves and conventional ovens.
• the container assemblies may contain solid food products.
• the container assemblies may be used for storage in the refrigerator and/or the freezer.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Ceramic Engineering (AREA)
• Cartons (AREA)
• Containers Having Bodies Formed In One Piece (AREA)
• Packages (AREA)
• Closures For Containers (AREA)
• Purses, Travelling Bags, Baskets, Or Suitcases (AREA)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Publications (1)

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• 2005
  • 2005-02-09 US US11/054,046 patent/US20060175327A1/en not_active Abandoned
• 2006
  • 2006-02-02 CA CA002596641A patent/CA2596641A1/en not_active Abandoned
  • 2006-02-02 EP EP06734382A patent/EP1851134A2/en not_active Withdrawn
  • 2006-02-02 JP JP2007555146A patent/JP2008531400A/ja not_active Withdrawn
  • 2006-02-02 WO PCT/US2006/004020 patent/WO2006086267A2/en not_active Ceased
  • 2006-02-02 MX MX2007009606A patent/MX2007009606A/es not_active Application Discontinuation

Non-Patent Citations (1)

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