EP3415444A1 - Container - Google Patents
Container Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3415444A1 EP3415444A1 EP18181217.3A EP18181217A EP3415444A1 EP 3415444 A1 EP3415444 A1 EP 3415444A1 EP 18181217 A EP18181217 A EP 18181217A EP 3415444 A1 EP3415444 A1 EP 3415444A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- container
- end portion
- valve
- retaining ring
- hinge
- 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.)
- Granted
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 13
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 description 19
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 7
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 7
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 6
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000004927 fusion Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- -1 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000000606 toothpaste Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229940034610 toothpaste Drugs 0.000 description 4
- 238000002788 crimping Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 229920002725 thermoplastic elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004952 Polyamide Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000013361 beverage Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 239000003623 enhancer Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011888 foil Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920002647 polyamide Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005034 decoration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000003599 food sweetener Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 229920001903 high density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004700 high-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002372 labelling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920001684 low density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004702 low-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001179 medium density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004701 medium-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002417 nutraceutical Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000021436 nutraceutical agent Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003765 sweetening agent Substances 0.000 description 1
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
- 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
- B65D35/44—Closures
- B65D35/46—Closures with valves
-
- 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
- B65D47/00—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
- B65D47/04—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
- B65D47/20—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps comprising hand-operated members for controlling discharge
- B65D47/2018—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps comprising hand-operated members for controlling discharge comprising a valve or like element which is opened or closed by deformation of the container or closure
- B65D47/2031—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps comprising hand-operated members for controlling discharge comprising a valve or like element which is opened or closed by deformation of the container or closure the element being formed by a slit, narrow opening or constrictable spout, the size of the outlet passage being able to be varied by increasing or decreasing the pressure
Definitions
- a container may be used to dispense a material.
- a tooth paste tube container may be used to dispense toothpaste.
- Some tooth paste containers are made using three separate components.
- the tooth paste container includes a tube portion, an upper portion and a cap.
- these parts are separately made and then assembled together.
- the tube portion is made, then the upper portion is made, such as by molding, and then the upper portion is attached to the tube portion, such as by sonic welding.
- a cap is molded and then attached to the upper portion, such as by threads. This process involves several separate parts which are separately formed and then assembled in several steps. There is a need for a container which has less parts and which is less expensive to manufacture.
- the invention provides a container which includes a body portion, an upper end portion, and a cap portion.
- the body portion may be a tube portion.
- the body portion, the end portion and the cap portion may be molded as one piece.
- the cap portion may be attached to the body portion with a hinge.
- the hinge may be a living hinge.
- the body portion may have a side wall.
- the side wall may have a thickness which allows the user to squeeze the side wall and dispense the product which is stored within the container.
- the upper end portion may be used to dispense the contents of the container.
- the end portion may include an opening.
- the container may include a valve.
- the valve will seal the opening.
- the valve may include an opening which allows the product to be dispensed.
- the valve may be attached to the container. In one embodiment, the valve may be attached to the end portion.
- the valve may be attached using a retention feature. In other embodiments, the valve may be attached using an adhesive or fusion such as sonic welding.
- the container may include a valve retaining ring.
- the retaining ring may engage the retention feature.
- the valve may be located between the retaining ring and the end portion.
- the retaining ring is a part which is separate from the valve.
- the valve may be molded onto the retaining ring.
- the container is filled with a product, such as, a liquid beverage enhancer.
- a product such as, a liquid beverage enhancer.
- the lower end portion is then closed.
- the lower end portion may be closed by using a heat seal.
- the heat seal may seal one portion of the side wall against another portion of the side wall.
- the heat seal may be sealed and trimmed to have various shapes.
- the container 100 includes a body portion 102, an upper end portion 104, and a cap portion 106.
- the body portion 102, the end portion 104 and the cap portion 106 may be molded as one piece.
- the body portion 102, the end portion 104 and the cap portion 106 may be molded on an injection molding machine.
- the body portion, the upper end portion and the cap portion may be made of polypropylene.
- the body portion, the upper end portion and the cap portion may be made of low density polyethylene, medium density polyethylene, or high density polyethylene.
- the body portion may be a tube portion.
- the cap portion 106 is attached to the body portion 102 with a hinge 108.
- the hinge 108 may be a living hinge.
- the hinge may be a three part hinge as shown in Fig. 16 .
- the hinge may be a butterfly hinge as shown in Fig. 17 .
- the body portion 102 may have a side wall.
- the side wall 110 may have a thickness 112 which allows the user to squeeze the side wall and dispense the product which is stored within the container.
- the side wall 110 may be deflected with the application of a force in the range of about 3 to about 15 pounds to cause the valve to actuate and to dispense a stream of liquid.
- the side wall 110 is thicker near the upper end portion 104 and thinner near the lower end portion 114.
- the thickness at location 116 may be 0.03 inches (0.076 cm)
- the thickness at location 118 may be 0.025 inches (0.064 cm)
- the thickness at location 120 may be 0.014 inches (0.036 cm).
- the thickness of the side wall may taper from the upper end portion 104 to the lower end portion 114.
- the outside surface 122 of the body portion may have an angle 124 with respect to the vertical axis in the range from about 1/32 (0.031) of a degree to about 1/4 (0.25) of a degree. In one example, the angle 124 may be 0.195 of a degree.
- the inside surface 126 of the body portion may have an angle 128 with respect to the vertical axis in the range from about 1/32 (0.031) of a degree to about 1/4 (0.25) of a degree. In one example, the angle 128 may be 1/16 (0.0625) of a degree.
- the taper may facilitate the removal of the body container from the mold.
- the body portion may include a location feature.
- the location feature may be a notch 129 as shown in Fig. 3 .
- the notch may be used to position the container in the proper position to receive a label.
- the assembly equipment may include a portion which would engage the notch to locate the container in a specific position.
- a label may be placed onto the container while the container is held in position. By holding the container in a specific position, the label may be placed in the proper orientation relative to the container.
- the proper orientation may be beneficial when the container has a specific orientation, such as, when the container is not symmetrical or when the hinge or other feature is in a specific location. For example, in one embodiment, the container is not symmetrical and the hinge is in a specific location as in Figs. 14 and 15 .
- the body portion may include an upwardly extending portion, such as a tab.
- the tab may engage a portion of the assembly equipment.
- the assembly equipment may use a sensor, such as an optical sensor or a displacement sensor, which can sense the location of a feature on the container, such as the hinge or the lift tab.
- a sensor such as an optical sensor or a displacement sensor, which can sense the location of a feature on the container, such as the hinge or the lift tab.
- the upper end portion 104 may be used to dispense the contents of the container.
- the end portion 104 may include an opening 130.
- the container 100 may include a valve 132. The valve 132 will seal the opening 130 and allow the contents to be dispensed from the container.
- the end portion 104 may include a retention feature.
- the retention feature 134 may be used to hold the valve 132 onto the end portion 104.
- the retention feature 134 may be a protrusion 136.
- the protrusion 136 may extend inwardly toward the center of the body portion.
- the end portion may include one, two, three, four or more protrusions.
- the end portion may include four protrusions 136. The retention feature 134 will engage the valve 132 in order to hold the valve 132 onto the container.
- the retention feature 134 may be located on an inner surface of the end portion.
- the retention feature may be located on a wall 138.
- the wall 138 may extend downwardly.
- the wall 138 may include a notch 140.
- the notch is U-shaped. In other embodiments, the notch may be other shapes, such as, V-shaped, square, or rectangular.
- the wall 138 may have one, two, three, four or more notches. In one embodiment, the wall 138 has four notches 140.
- the notch 140 may be located between a first protrusion 136 and a second protrusion 136. In an embodiment which includes more than two protrusions 136, a notch 140 may be located between each adjacent pair of protrusions.
- a first notch 140 may be located between the first protrusion and the second protrusion, a second notch may be located between the second protrusion and the third protrusion, a third notch may be located between the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion, and a fourth notch may be located between the fourth protrusion and the first protrusion.
- the notch 140 may facilitate the insertion of the valve.
- the notch 140 may allow the retention feature 134 to deflect so that the valve may be inserted.
- the notch may facilitate the removal of the container from a molding machine.
- the valve 132 may be made of a flexible material.
- the valve may be made of silicone.
- the valve may be made of a thermoplastic elastomer.
- the valve 132 may include an opening 142 which allows the contents to be dispensed.
- the opening 142 may be a slit 144.
- the opening may be two slits.
- the first slit may cross the second slit at an angle.
- the angle may be 90 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle may be between 1 degree and 89 degrees.
- the valve 132 may be attached to the container. Referring to Fig. 5 , in one embodiment, the valve 132 may be attached to the end portion 104. The valve 132 may be attached using the retention feature 134. In other embodiments, the valve may be attached using an adhesive, fusion (such as sonic welding) or deformation of the container (such as, by crimping with or without heating). In another embodiment, the valve 132 may be used with a retaining ring as discussed below.
- the valve 146 may include an opening 148.
- the opening 148 may be any one of the openings discussed above for valve 132.
- the valve 146 may include an outer portion 150, an intermediate portion 152, and an inner portion 154.
- the intermediate portion 152 and the inner portion 154 When pressure is applied to the exterior of the container, the interior pressure of the container will cause the intermediate portion 152 and the inner portion 154 to deflect outwards as shown in Fig. 10 and allow the contents to exit the opening 148.
- the intermediate portion 152 and the inner portion 154 return to the positions shown in Fig. 9 .
- the valve 146 may be attached using the retention feature 134.
- valve may be attached using an adhesive, fusion (such as sonic welding) or deformation of the container (such as, by crimping with or without heating).
- valve 146 may be used with a retaining ring 158 as discussed below.
- the container 100 may include a valve retaining ring.
- the retaining ring 158 may engage the retention feature 134.
- the valve 146 may be located between the retaining ring 158 and the end portion 104.
- the retaining ring 158 is a part which is separate from the valve 146.
- the retaining ring 158 may be made of a material which is harder than the valve 146.
- the valve may be made of silicone and the retaining ring may be made of polypropylene.
- the valve may be made of a thermoplastic elastomer.
- the ring may be made of nylon, or polyamide.
- valve 146 may be inserted into the container and then the retaining ring 158 may be inserted into the container. The retaining ring 158 may then engage the retention feature 134.
- valve may be molded onto the retaining ring as shown in Figs. 11 and 12 .
- the valve 160 may be molded onto a retaining ring 162.
- the retaining ring 162 may be made of a material which is harder than the valve 160.
- the valve may be made of silicone and the retaining ring may be made of polypropylene.
- the valve may be made of a thermoplastic elastomer.
- the ring may be made of nylon, or polyamide.
- the valve 160 may be attached using the retention feature 134.
- the valve 160 and retaining ring 162 may be inserted into the container. The retaining ring 162 may then engage the retention feature 134. Referring to Fig.
- the valve 160 may include an opening 164.
- the opening 164 may be any one of the openings discussed above for valve 132.
- the valve 160 may include an outer portion 166, an intermediate portion 168, and an inner portion 170.
- the intermediate portion 168 and the inner portion 170 When pressure is applied to the exterior of the container, the interior pressure of the container will cause the intermediate portion 168 and the inner portion 170 to deflect outwards and allow the product to exit the opening 164.
- the intermediate portion 168 and the inner portion 170 return to the positions shown in Fig. 12 .
- the retaining ring 162 may be larger than valve 160.
- the outer perimeter 172 of the retaining ring 162 may be greater than the outer perimeter 174 of the valve 160.
- the manufacturer can increase or decrease the outer perimeter 172 of the retaining ring to fit in several different sizes and types of containers without having to change the size of the valve 160.
- the manufacturer could also increase or decrease the thickness 176 of the retaining ring 162 in order to fit in several different sizes and types of containers without having to change the size of the valve 160.
- the outer perimeter 172 of the outer portion 166 of the valve may be increased or decreased in order to fit several different sizes and types of containers without having to change the size of the moving portions of the valve 160.
- the moving portions of the valve 160 are the intermediate portion 168 and the inner portion 170.
- the outer perimeter 174 of the outer portion 166 has been decreased as compared to Fig. 12 without changing the size of the intermediate portion 168 and the inner portion 170.
- the size of the moving parts of the valve can be increased or decreased.
- the size of the intermediate portion 168 and the inner portion 170 of the valve 160 may need to increase in order to accommodate a more viscous fluid.
- the size of the inner opening 178 of the retaining ring 162 can be increased or decreased to accommodate the increase or decrease of the intermediate portion 168 and the inner portion 170 of the valve, but the outer periphery 172 of the retaining ring 162 can remain the same.
- the manufacturer decides to change the viscosity of the fluid in the container, the manufacturer can increase or decrease the size of intermediate portion 168 and inner portion 170 of the valve, but the manufacturer can use the same container since the outer periphery 172 of the retaining ring 162 remains the same. In some situations the size of the outer portion 166 of the valve may change in size.
- the container 100 is filled with a product.
- the product may be a liquid beverage enhancer.
- the product may be sweeteners or nutraceuticals.
- the product may have a viscosity in the first range of about 1 to about 250 centipoise at room temperature, a second range of about 1 to about 90 centipoise at room temperature, and a third range of about 1 to about 50 centipoise at room temperature.
- the lower end portion 114 is then closed.
- the lower end portion 114 may be closed by using a heat seal 182.
- the heat seal 182 may seal one portion of the side wall 110 against another portion of the side wall 110.
- the heat seal 182 may be sealed and trimmed to have various shapes. For example, the heat seal may be trimmed to be straight, wavy, with an opening for hanging, a trademarked shape, trademarked opening, a decoration, or an opening for a lanyard.
- the lower end portion 114 may be closed with a plug or cap which may be attached to the end portion 114 with an adhesive, fusion (such as sonic welding) or deformation of the container (such as, by crimping with or without heating).
- the container may have product information.
- the product information may be a label 184.
- the label 184 may be applied with an adhesive.
- the label may be applied with shrink wrap.
- the product information may be placed on the container using other techniques.
- the product information may be printed onto the container.
- the product information may be embossed onto the container.
- the product information may be applied by in-mold labeling.
- the container may include a tamper evident feature.
- the tamper evident feature may be a band 186.
- the band 186 may be applied over a portion of the body and a portion of the cap. If a person breaks the band to open the cap, then a subsequent person would know that the container was previously opened.
- the band may be applied by heat shrinking. In other embodiments, the band may be applied with an adhesive.
- the label may extend over a portion of the cap and the label may provide a tamper evident feature.
- the band may not be needed.
- Fig. 16 shows a first embodiment of a hinge.
- the hinge 108 may be a three part hinge.
- the hinge 108 may include a center portion 274, a first outer portion 275, and a second outer portion 276.
- the center portion 274 may include a hinge 277.
- the first outer portion 275 may include an upper hinge 278 and a lower hinge 279.
- the second outer portion 276 may include an upper hinge 280 and a lower hinge 281.
- the center portion 274 and the first outer portion 275 may be separated by a first space 282.
- the center portion 274 and the second outer portion 276 may be separated by a second space 283.
- the upper hinges 278, 280, the lower hinges 279, 281 and the hinge 277 may bend.
- the outer portions 275, 276 may bend.
- Fig. 17 shows a second embodiment of a hinge.
- the hinge 284 may be a butterfly hinge.
- the hinge 284 may include a center portion 286, a first outer portion 288, and a second outer portion 290.
- the center portion 286 may include a hinge 291.
- the first outer portion 288 may include an upper hinge 293 and a lower hinge 294.
- the second outer portion 290 may include an upper hinge 295 and a lower hinge 296.
- the upper hinges 293, 295, the lower hinges 294, 296, and hinge 291 may bend.
- the outer portions 288, 290 may bend.
- the container may have other hinges, such as, a one part hinge, or a two part hinge.
- the cap 106 may include an annular wall 297.
- the annular wall 297 may include a rib 298.
- the cap 106 may also include a projection 299.
- Fig. 18 when the cap 106 is closed, the cap 106 may engage the end portion 104.
- the end portion 104 may have a ridge 205.
- the ridge 205 may engage the rib 298 in order to maintain the cap 106 in a closed position.
- the engagement may also provide an audible indication that the cap is in the closed position.
- the projection 299 extends downward toward the valve 146.
- the projection 299 may limit the outward deflection of the valve 146 and may not allow the opening 148 to open. Thus, the projection 299 may prevent the product from exiting the valve 146 when the cap 106 is in the closed position.
- the container may be designed to hold a specific amount of the product.
- the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 100 ml.
- the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 50 ml.
- the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 36 ml.
- the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 24 ml.
- the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 12 ml.
- the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 8 ml.
- the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 4 ml.
- the body portion may be attached to the upper end portion.
- the body portion 302 may be attached to the upper end portion 304 with fusion, such as, sonic welding.
- the body portion may be attached to the upper end portion with an adhesive, or with heat.
- the upper end portion 304 may include a cap portion 306.
- the cap portion 306 may be attached with a hinge 308.
- the hinge 308 may be one of the hinges noted herein.
- the container 400 may include a body portion 402, an upper end portion 404, and a plug seal 405.
- the container 400 may include a cap portion 406, a base portion 407, and a hinge portion 408.
- the hinge portion 408 may be one of the hinges noted herein.
- the base portion 407 may be attached to the end portion 404 with threads.
- the body portion 402 may be a tube and the lower end portion 414 may be closed as noted herein.
- the cap portion 406, a base portion 407, and a hinge portion 408 are shown.
- the base portion 407 includes threads 409.
- the threads 409 may engage threads 411 on the end portion 404.
- the plug seal 405 is also shown inserted into the base portion 407.
- the plug seal 405 may include a valve 460 and a retaining ring 462.
- the valve 460 may be molded onto the retaining ring 462.
- the valve 460 may be made of materials which are noted above for valve 160.
- the retaining ring 462 may be made of materials which are noted above for the retaining ring 162.
- the valve 460 may include an outer portion 466, an intermediate portion 468, and an inner portion 470.
- the intermediate portion 468 and the inner portion 470 may be the same as the intermediate portion 168 and the inner portion 170.
- the intermediate portion 468 and the inner portion 470 may operate in the same manner as the intermediate portion 168 and the inner portion 170.
- the retaining ring 462 may have an annular wall 472 which extends downwards.
- the wall 472 engages the interior of the container.
- the wall 472 makes a sealing engagement with the container.
- the wall 472 may make a sealing engagement with the end portion 404.
- FIG. 25 another embodiment of a container is shown.
- the container 500 is the same as container 400 except that the container 500 is a bottle with a closed lower end portion 514.
- the container 600 is the same as container 500 except that the container 600 has a body portion with a different shape.
- the container 600 may be a bottle with a closed lower end portion 614 or the container 600 may be a tube with a closed lower end portion 614.
- FIG. 27 another embodiment of a container is shown.
- the container 700 is the same as container 400 except that the container 700 has a snap attachment to connect the base portion 707 to the end portion 704.
- the end portion 704 includes one or more protrusions 711 which engage one or more protrusions 713 on the base portion 707.
- the cap portion 706, a base portion 707, and a hinge portion 708 are shown.
- the base portion 707 includes the one or more protrusions 713.
- the plug seal 705 is also shown inserted into the base portion 707.
- FIG. 29 another embodiment of a container is shown.
- the container 800 is the same as container 700 except that the container 800 is a bottle with a closed lower end portion 814.
- the container 900 is the same as container 400 except that the container 900 has a seal 906.
- the seal may be a plastic seal, a foil seal, a plastic seal with a paper backing, a foil seal with a paper backing, or other type of seal.
- FIG. 31 another embodiment of a container is shown.
- the container 1000 is the same as container 900 except that the container 1000 is a bottle with a closed lower end portion 1014.
Abstract
Description
- A container may be used to dispense a material. For example, a tooth paste tube container may be used to dispense toothpaste. Some tooth paste containers are made using three separate components. For example, the tooth paste container includes a tube portion, an upper portion and a cap. In addition, these parts are separately made and then assembled together. For example, the tube portion is made, then the upper portion is made, such as by molding, and then the upper portion is attached to the tube portion, such as by sonic welding. Finally, a cap is molded and then attached to the upper portion, such as by threads. This process involves several separate parts which are separately formed and then assembled in several steps. There is a need for a container which has less parts and which is less expensive to manufacture.
- The invention provides a container which includes a body portion, an upper end portion, and a cap portion. In one embodiment, the body portion may be a tube portion. The body portion, the end portion and the cap portion may be molded as one piece. The cap portion may be attached to the body portion with a hinge. The hinge may be a living hinge.
- The body portion may have a side wall. The side wall may have a thickness which allows the user to squeeze the side wall and dispense the product which is stored within the container.
- The upper end portion may be used to dispense the contents of the container. The end portion may include an opening. The container may include a valve. The valve will seal the opening. The valve may include an opening which allows the product to be dispensed. The valve may be attached to the container. In one embodiment, the valve may be attached to the end portion.
- The valve may be attached using a retention feature. In other embodiments, the valve may be attached using an adhesive or fusion such as sonic welding.
- The container may include a valve retaining ring. The retaining ring may engage the retention feature. The valve may be located between the retaining ring and the end portion. In one embodiment, the retaining ring is a part which is separate from the valve. In another embodiment, the valve may be molded onto the retaining ring.
- After the valve is assembled to the upper end portion, the container is filled with a product, such as, a liquid beverage enhancer. The lower end portion is then closed. In one embodiment, the lower end portion may be closed by using a heat seal. The heat seal may seal one portion of the side wall against another portion of the side wall. The heat seal may be sealed and trimmed to have various shapes.
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Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a container. -
Fig. 2 is a side view of the container inFig. 1 . -
Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 ofFig. 2 . -
Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of the end inFig. 3 . -
Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view similar toFig. 4 with a first embodiment of a valve. -
Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a valve. -
Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view ofFig. 6 . -
Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a valve retaining ring. -
Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the valve and retaining ring assembled onto the container. -
Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the valve inFig. 9 in the open position. -
Fig. 11 is a perspective of a third embodiment of a valve. -
Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view ofFig. 11 . -
Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a valve and retaining ring assembled onto the container. -
Fig. 14 is a front view of the container with a closed end. -
Fig. 15 is a side view of the container with a closed end. -
Fig. 16 is a rear view of the container showing a first embodiment of a hinge. -
Fig. 17 is a rear view of the container showing a second embodiment of a hinge. -
Fig. 18 is s cross-sectional view with the cap portion in a closed position. -
Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a container. -
Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a container. -
Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a base portion and a cap portion fromFig. 20 . -
Fig. 22 is a top perspective view of the plug seal. -
Fig. 23 is a bottom perspective view of the plug seal. -
Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the plug seal. -
Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a container. -
Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a container. -
Fig. 27 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a container. -
Fig. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a base portion and a cap portion fromFig. 27 . -
Fig. 29 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a container. -
Fig. 30 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a container. -
Fig. 31 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a container. - Referring to
Figs. 1 and2 , thecontainer 100 includes abody portion 102, anupper end portion 104, and acap portion 106. Thebody portion 102, theend portion 104 and thecap portion 106 may be molded as one piece. For example, thebody portion 102, theend portion 104 and thecap portion 106 may be molded on an injection molding machine. In one embodiment, the body portion, the upper end portion and the cap portion may be made of polypropylene. In other embodiments, the body portion, the upper end portion and the cap portion may be made of low density polyethylene, medium density polyethylene, or high density polyethylene. In one embodiment, the body portion may be a tube portion. - The
cap portion 106 is attached to thebody portion 102 with ahinge 108. Thehinge 108 may be a living hinge. In one embodiment, the hinge may be a three part hinge as shown inFig. 16 . In another embodiment, the hinge may be a butterfly hinge as shown inFig. 17 . - Referring to
Fig. 3 , thebody portion 102 may have a side wall. In one embodiment, theside wall 110 may have athickness 112 which allows the user to squeeze the side wall and dispense the product which is stored within the container. In one embodiment, theside wall 110 may be deflected with the application of a force in the range of about 3 to about 15 pounds to cause the valve to actuate and to dispense a stream of liquid. - In one embodiment, the
side wall 110 is thicker near theupper end portion 104 and thinner near thelower end portion 114. In one embodiment, the thickness atlocation 116 may be 0.03 inches (0.076 cm), the thickness atlocation 118 may be 0.025 inches (0.064 cm), and the thickness atlocation 120 may be 0.014 inches (0.036 cm). - In one embodiment, the thickness of the side wall may taper from the
upper end portion 104 to thelower end portion 114. In one embodiment, theoutside surface 122 of the body portion may have anangle 124 with respect to the vertical axis in the range from about 1/32 (0.031) of a degree to about 1/4 (0.25) of a degree. In one example, theangle 124 may be 0.195 of a degree. In one embodiment, theinside surface 126 of the body portion may have anangle 128 with respect to the vertical axis in the range from about 1/32 (0.031) of a degree to about 1/4 (0.25) of a degree. In one example, theangle 128 may be 1/16 (0.0625) of a degree. The taper may facilitate the removal of the body container from the mold. - The body portion may include a location feature. In one embodiment, the location feature may be a
notch 129 as shown inFig. 3 . The notch may be used to position the container in the proper position to receive a label. The assembly equipment may include a portion which would engage the notch to locate the container in a specific position. A label may be placed onto the container while the container is held in position. By holding the container in a specific position, the label may be placed in the proper orientation relative to the container. The proper orientation may be beneficial when the container has a specific orientation, such as, when the container is not symmetrical or when the hinge or other feature is in a specific location. For example, in one embodiment, the container is not symmetrical and the hinge is in a specific location as inFigs. 14 and 15 . - In other embodiments, other location features may be used. For example, the body portion may include an upwardly extending portion, such as a tab. The tab may engage a portion of the assembly equipment.
- In another embodiment, the assembly equipment may use a sensor, such as an optical sensor or a displacement sensor, which can sense the location of a feature on the container, such as the hinge or the lift tab.
- The
upper end portion 104 may be used to dispense the contents of the container. Theend portion 104 may include anopening 130. Referring toFig. 5 , thecontainer 100 may include avalve 132. Thevalve 132 will seal theopening 130 and allow the contents to be dispensed from the container. - Referring to
Figs. 4 and 5 , theend portion 104 may include a retention feature. Theretention feature 134 may be used to hold thevalve 132 onto theend portion 104. In one embodiment, theretention feature 134 may be aprotrusion 136. In one embodiment, theprotrusion 136 may extend inwardly toward the center of the body portion. The end portion may include one, two, three, four or more protrusions. In one embodiment, the end portion may include fourprotrusions 136. Theretention feature 134 will engage thevalve 132 in order to hold thevalve 132 onto the container. - In one embodiment, the
retention feature 134 may be located on an inner surface of the end portion. For example, referring toFig. 4 , the retention feature may be located on awall 138. Thewall 138 may extend downwardly. - Referring to
Fig. 4 , thewall 138 may include anotch 140. In one embodiment, the notch is U-shaped. In other embodiments, the notch may be other shapes, such as, V-shaped, square, or rectangular. Thewall 138 may have one, two, three, four or more notches. In one embodiment, thewall 138 has fournotches 140. In one embodiment, thenotch 140 may be located between afirst protrusion 136 and asecond protrusion 136. In an embodiment which includes more than twoprotrusions 136, anotch 140 may be located between each adjacent pair of protrusions. For example, in an embodiment which includes fourprotrusions 136, afirst notch 140 may be located between the first protrusion and the second protrusion, a second notch may be located between the second protrusion and the third protrusion, a third notch may be located between the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion, and a fourth notch may be located between the fourth protrusion and the first protrusion. - The
notch 140 may facilitate the insertion of the valve. Thenotch 140 may allow theretention feature 134 to deflect so that the valve may be inserted. In addition, the notch may facilitate the removal of the container from a molding machine. - Referring to
Fig. 5 , thevalve 132 may be made of a flexible material. In one embodiment, the valve may be made of silicone. In other embodiments, the valve may be made of a thermoplastic elastomer. Thevalve 132 may include anopening 142 which allows the contents to be dispensed. In one embodiment, theopening 142 may be aslit 144. In a second embodiment, the opening may be two slits. The first slit may cross the second slit at an angle. In one embodiment, the angle may be 90 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle may be between 1 degree and 89 degrees. - The
valve 132 may be attached to the container. Referring toFig. 5 , in one embodiment, thevalve 132 may be attached to theend portion 104. Thevalve 132 may be attached using theretention feature 134. In other embodiments, the valve may be attached using an adhesive, fusion (such as sonic welding) or deformation of the container (such as, by crimping with or without heating). In another embodiment, thevalve 132 may be used with a retaining ring as discussed below. - Referring to
Figs. 6 and 7 , a second embodiment of a valve is shown. Thevalve 146 may include anopening 148. Theopening 148 may be any one of the openings discussed above forvalve 132. Referring toFig. 7 , thevalve 146 may include anouter portion 150, anintermediate portion 152, and aninner portion 154. When pressure is applied to the exterior of the container, the interior pressure of the container will cause theintermediate portion 152 and theinner portion 154 to deflect outwards as shown inFig. 10 and allow the contents to exit theopening 148. When the pressure is removed, theintermediate portion 152 and theinner portion 154 return to the positions shown inFig. 9 . Thevalve 146 may be attached using theretention feature 134. In other embodiments, the valve may be attached using an adhesive, fusion (such as sonic welding) or deformation of the container (such as, by crimping with or without heating). In another embodiment, thevalve 146 may be used with a retainingring 158 as discussed below. - The
container 100 may include a valve retaining ring. Referring toFigs. 8 and 9 , the retainingring 158 may engage theretention feature 134. Thevalve 146 may be located between the retainingring 158 and theend portion 104. In one embodiment, the retainingring 158 is a part which is separate from thevalve 146. The retainingring 158 may be made of a material which is harder than thevalve 146. For example, the valve may be made of silicone and the retaining ring may be made of polypropylene. In other embodiments, the valve may be made of a thermoplastic elastomer. In other embodiments, the ring may be made of nylon, or polyamide. In one embodiment, thevalve 146 may be inserted into the container and then the retainingring 158 may be inserted into the container. The retainingring 158 may then engage theretention feature 134. In another embodiment, the valve may be molded onto the retaining ring as shown inFigs. 11 and 12 . - Referring to
Figs. 11 and 12 , a third embodiment of a valve is shown. Thevalve 160 may be molded onto a retainingring 162. The retainingring 162 may be made of a material which is harder than thevalve 160. For example, the valve may be made of silicone and the retaining ring may be made of polypropylene. In other embodiments, the valve may be made of a thermoplastic elastomer. In other embodiments, the ring may be made of nylon, or polyamide. Referring toFig. 13 , thevalve 160 may be attached using theretention feature 134. In one embodiment, thevalve 160 and retainingring 162 may be inserted into the container. The retainingring 162 may then engage theretention feature 134. Referring toFig. 12 , thevalve 160 may include anopening 164. Theopening 164 may be any one of the openings discussed above forvalve 132. Thevalve 160 may include anouter portion 166, anintermediate portion 168, and aninner portion 170. When pressure is applied to the exterior of the container, the interior pressure of the container will cause theintermediate portion 168 and theinner portion 170 to deflect outwards and allow the product to exit theopening 164. When the pressure is removed, theintermediate portion 168 and theinner portion 170 return to the positions shown inFig. 12 . - Referring to
Fig. 12 , the retainingring 162 may be larger thanvalve 160. For example, theouter perimeter 172 of the retainingring 162 may be greater than theouter perimeter 174 of thevalve 160. Thus, in situations which require a largeouter perimeter 172 for the retainingring 162, the size of theouter perimeter 172 can be increased but the size of thevalve 160 can remain the same. Therefore, the manufacturer can increase or decrease theouter perimeter 172 of the retaining ring to fit in several different sizes and types of containers without having to change the size of thevalve 160. In addition, the manufacturer could also increase or decrease thethickness 176 of the retainingring 162 in order to fit in several different sizes and types of containers without having to change the size of thevalve 160. - The
outer perimeter 172 of theouter portion 166 of the valve may be increased or decreased in order to fit several different sizes and types of containers without having to change the size of the moving portions of thevalve 160. In one embodiment, the moving portions of thevalve 160 are theintermediate portion 168 and theinner portion 170. For example, referring toFig. 13 , theouter perimeter 174 of theouter portion 166 has been decreased as compared toFig. 12 without changing the size of theintermediate portion 168 and theinner portion 170. - In another embodiment, the size of the moving parts of the valve can be increased or decreased. For example, the size of the
intermediate portion 168 and theinner portion 170 of thevalve 160 may need to increase in order to accommodate a more viscous fluid. In addition, the size of theinner opening 178 of the retainingring 162 can be increased or decreased to accommodate the increase or decrease of theintermediate portion 168 and theinner portion 170 of the valve, but theouter periphery 172 of the retainingring 162 can remain the same. Therefore, if the manufacturer decides to change the viscosity of the fluid in the container, the manufacturer can increase or decrease the size ofintermediate portion 168 andinner portion 170 of the valve, but the manufacturer can use the same container since theouter periphery 172 of the retainingring 162 remains the same. In some situations the size of theouter portion 166 of the valve may change in size. - After the valve is assembled to the
upper end portion 104, thecontainer 100 is filled with a product. The product may be a liquid beverage enhancer. In other embodiments, the product may be sweeteners or nutraceuticals. The product may have a viscosity in the first range of about 1 to about 250 centipoise at room temperature, a second range of about 1 to about 90 centipoise at room temperature, and a third range of about 1 to about 50 centipoise at room temperature. - After the container is filled with a product, the
lower end portion 114 is then closed. Referring toFigs. 14 and 15 , in one embodiment, thelower end portion 114 may be closed by using aheat seal 182. Theheat seal 182 may seal one portion of theside wall 110 against another portion of theside wall 110. Theheat seal 182 may be sealed and trimmed to have various shapes. For example, the heat seal may be trimmed to be straight, wavy, with an opening for hanging, a trademarked shape, trademarked opening, a decoration, or an opening for a lanyard. In other embodiments, thelower end portion 114 may be closed with a plug or cap which may be attached to theend portion 114 with an adhesive, fusion (such as sonic welding) or deformation of the container (such as, by crimping with or without heating). - In one embodiment, the container may have product information. Referring to
Figs. 14 and 15 , in one embodiment, the product information may be alabel 184. Thelabel 184 may be applied with an adhesive. In other embodiments, the label may be applied with shrink wrap. - In other embodiments, the product information may be placed on the container using other techniques. For example, the product information may be printed onto the container. In another example, the product information may be embossed onto the container. In a third example, the product information may be applied by in-mold labeling.
- In one embodiment, the container may include a tamper evident feature. In one example, the tamper evident feature may be a
band 186. Theband 186 may be applied over a portion of the body and a portion of the cap. If a person breaks the band to open the cap, then a subsequent person would know that the container was previously opened. In one embodiment, the band may be applied by heat shrinking. In other embodiments, the band may be applied with an adhesive. - In another embodiment, the label may extend over a portion of the cap and the label may provide a tamper evident feature. Thus, the band may not be needed.
-
Fig. 16 shows a first embodiment of a hinge. Thehinge 108 may be a three part hinge. Thehinge 108 may include acenter portion 274, a firstouter portion 275, and a secondouter portion 276. Thecenter portion 274 may include ahinge 277. The firstouter portion 275 may include anupper hinge 278 and alower hinge 279. The secondouter portion 276 may include anupper hinge 280 and alower hinge 281. Thecenter portion 274 and the firstouter portion 275 may be separated by afirst space 282. Thecenter portion 274 and the secondouter portion 276 may be separated by asecond space 283. When the cap portion is opened, the upper hinges 278, 280, the lower hinges 279, 281 and thehinge 277 may bend. In addition, when the cap is opened, theouter portions -
Fig. 17 shows a second embodiment of a hinge. Thehinge 284 may be a butterfly hinge. Thehinge 284 may include acenter portion 286, a firstouter portion 288, and a secondouter portion 290. Thecenter portion 286 may include ahinge 291. The firstouter portion 288 may include anupper hinge 293 and alower hinge 294. The secondouter portion 290 may include anupper hinge 295 and alower hinge 296. When the cap portion is opened, the upper hinges 293, 295, the lower hinges 294, 296, and hinge 291 may bend. In addition, when the cap is opened, theouter portions - In other embodiments, the container may have other hinges, such as, a one part hinge, or a two part hinge.
- Referring to
Fig. 1 , thecap 106 may include an annular wall 297. The annular wall 297 may include arib 298. Thecap 106 may also include aprojection 299. Referring toFig. 18 , when thecap 106 is closed, thecap 106 may engage theend portion 104. Theend portion 104 may have aridge 205. Theridge 205 may engage therib 298 in order to maintain thecap 106 in a closed position. The engagement may also provide an audible indication that the cap is in the closed position. Theprojection 299 extends downward toward thevalve 146. Theprojection 299 may limit the outward deflection of thevalve 146 and may not allow theopening 148 to open. Thus, theprojection 299 may prevent the product from exiting thevalve 146 when thecap 106 is in the closed position. - The container may be designed to hold a specific amount of the product. In a first embodiment, the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 100 ml. In a second embodiment, the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 50 ml. In a third embodiment, the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 36 ml. In a fourth embodiment, the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 24 ml. In a fifth embodiment, the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 12 ml. In a sixth embodiment, the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 8 ml. In a seventh embodiment, the container can hold no less than 2 ml and no more than 4 ml.
- In another embodiment, the body portion may be attached to the upper end portion. In one embodiment, referring to
Fig. 19 , thebody portion 302 may be attached to theupper end portion 304 with fusion, such as, sonic welding. In other embodiments, the body portion may be attached to the upper end portion with an adhesive, or with heat. In one embodiment, theupper end portion 304 may include acap portion 306. Thecap portion 306 may be attached with ahinge 308. Thehinge 308 may be one of the hinges noted herein. - Referring to
Fig. 20 , another embodiment of a container is shown. Thecontainer 400 may include abody portion 402, anupper end portion 404, and aplug seal 405. In one embodiment, thecontainer 400 may include acap portion 406, abase portion 407, and ahinge portion 408. Thehinge portion 408 may be one of the hinges noted herein. In this embodiment, thebase portion 407 may be attached to theend portion 404 with threads. In this embodiment, thebody portion 402 may be a tube and thelower end portion 414 may be closed as noted herein. - Referring to
Fig. 21 , thecap portion 406, abase portion 407, and ahinge portion 408 are shown. Thebase portion 407 includesthreads 409. Thethreads 409 may engagethreads 411 on theend portion 404. Theplug seal 405 is also shown inserted into thebase portion 407. - Referring to
Figs. 22-24 , theplug seal 405 is shown. Theplug seal 405 may include avalve 460 and a retainingring 462. Thevalve 460 may be molded onto the retainingring 462. Thevalve 460 may be made of materials which are noted above forvalve 160. The retainingring 462 may be made of materials which are noted above for the retainingring 162. - Referring to
Fig. 24 , thevalve 460 may include anouter portion 466, anintermediate portion 468, and aninner portion 470. Theintermediate portion 468 and theinner portion 470 may be the same as theintermediate portion 168 and theinner portion 170. In addition, theintermediate portion 468 and theinner portion 470 may operate in the same manner as theintermediate portion 168 and theinner portion 170. The retainingring 462 may have anannular wall 472 which extends downwards. Thewall 472 engages the interior of the container. In one embodiment, thewall 472 makes a sealing engagement with the container. For example, thewall 472 may make a sealing engagement with theend portion 404. - Referring to
Fig. 25 , another embodiment of a container is shown. Thecontainer 500 is the same ascontainer 400 except that thecontainer 500 is a bottle with a closedlower end portion 514. - Referring to
Fig. 26 , another embodiment of a container is shown. Thecontainer 600 is the same ascontainer 500 except that thecontainer 600 has a body portion with a different shape. Thecontainer 600 may be a bottle with a closedlower end portion 614 or thecontainer 600 may be a tube with a closedlower end portion 614. - Referring to
Fig. 27 , another embodiment of a container is shown. Thecontainer 700 is the same ascontainer 400 except that thecontainer 700 has a snap attachment to connect thebase portion 707 to theend portion 704. Theend portion 704 includes one ormore protrusions 711 which engage one ormore protrusions 713 on thebase portion 707. - Referring to
Fig.28 , thecap portion 706, abase portion 707, and ahinge portion 708 are shown. Thebase portion 707 includes the one ormore protrusions 713. Theplug seal 705 is also shown inserted into thebase portion 707. - Referring to
Fig. 29 , another embodiment of a container is shown. Thecontainer 800 is the same ascontainer 700 except that thecontainer 800 is a bottle with a closedlower end portion 814. - Referring to
Fig. 30 , another embodiment of a container is shown. Thecontainer 900 is the same ascontainer 400 except that thecontainer 900 has aseal 906. The seal may be a plastic seal, a foil seal, a plastic seal with a paper backing, a foil seal with a paper backing, or other type of seal. - Referring to
Fig. 31 , another embodiment of a container is shown. Thecontainer 1000 is the same ascontainer 900 except that thecontainer 1000 is a bottle with a closedlower end portion 1014. - This application incorporates by reference in its entirety
U.S. Design Patent Application number 29/450,116, filed on March 15, 2013 - All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.
- The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and "at least one" and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term "at least one" followed by a list of one or more items (for example, "at least one of A and B") is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising," "having," "including," and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
- Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
- Particular embodiments of the present invention are the following:
- 1. A container for dispensing a product comprising
an upper end portion,
a body portion, the body portion extends away from the upper end portion, a cap portion, the cap portion is attached with a hinge to one of the body portion and the upper end portion,
and a valve. - 2. The container of embodiment 1 wherein the body portion, the upper end portion and the cap portion are one piece.
- 3. The container of embodiment 1 wherein the upper end portion includes an opening, the valve is located over the opening.
- 4. The container of embodiment 1 wherein the container includes a retention feature to hold the valve.
- 5. The container of embodiment 4 wherein the retention feature is a protrusion.
- 6. The container of embodiment 1 wherein the container includes a lower end portion, the lower end portion is closed.
- 7. The container of embodiment 6 wherein the lower end portion is closed by a heat seal.
- 8. The container of embodiment 1 wherein the body portion includes a side wall, the container includes a lower end portion, the side wall has a first thickness near the upper end portion, the side wall has a second thickness near the lower end portion, the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.
- 9. The container of embodiment 1 wherein the body portion includes a side wall, the container includes a lower end portion, the side wall has a thickness, the thickness of the side wall tapers near the upper end portion toward the lower end portion.
- 10. The container of embodiment 2 wherein the container includes a valve retaining ring, the retaining ring holds the valve onto the container.
- 11. The container of embodiment 10 wherein the retaining ring is separate from the valve.
- 12. The container of embodiment 10 wherein the valve is molded onto the retaining ring.
- 13. The container of embodiment 10 wherein the container includes a retention feature, the retention feature engages the retaining ring.
- 14. The container of embodiment 1 wherein the body portion, the upper end portion, and the cap portion are made of polypropylene.
- 15. A method of making a container for dispensing a product comprising:
- providing a container including an upper end portion, a body portion, and a cap portion; the body portion extends away from the upper end portion; the cap portion is attached with a hinge to one of the body portion and the upper end portion;
- inserting a valve into the container;
- filling the container with the product; and
- closing the lower end portion.
- 16. The method of embodiment 15 wherein the closing the lower end portion is performed by heat sealing.
- 17. The method of embodiment 15 wherein the body portion, upper end portion, and the cap portion are one piece.
- 18. The method of embodiment 15 further comprising the step of inserting a valve retaining ring into the container.
- 19. The method of embodiment 18 wherein the valve is molded onto the retaining ring.
- 20. The method of embodiment 18 wherein the valve is molded separately from the retaining ring.
- 21. A container for dispensing a product comprising:
an upper end portion,
a body portion, the body portion extends away from the upper end portion, a base portion, the base portion attached to the upper end portion,
a plug seal, the plug seal connected to the upper end portion, the plug seal including a valve. - 22. The container of embodiment 21 wherein the plug seal includes a retaining ring.
- 23. The container of embodiment 21 wherein a cap portion is connected to the base portion with a hinge portion.
Claims (15)
- A container (400, 700) for dispensing a product comprising:
an upper end portion (404, 704),
a body portion (402), the body portion extends away from the upper end portion (404, 704),
a base portion (407, 707), the base portion attached to the upper end portion (404, 704),
a plug seal (405, 705), the plug seal connected to the upper end portion (404, 704), the plug seal (405, 705) including a valve (460). - The container as in claim 1 wherein the plug seal (405) includes a retaining ring (462).
- The container as in claim 1 wherein a cap portion (406, 706) is connected to the base portion (407) with a hinge portion (408).
- The container as in claim 2 wherein the retaining ring (462) creates a liquid seal with the upper end portion (404).
- The container as in claim 4 wherein the retaining ring (462) includes a wall (472), the wall creates a liquid seal with the upper end portion (404).
- The container as in claim 1 wherein the base portion (407) is attached to the upper end portion (404) with threads (409).
- The container as in claim 1 wherein the base portion (707) is attached to the upper end portion (704) with a snap attachment.
- The container as in claim 1 wherein the container includes a seal (906).
- The container as in claim 8 wherein the seal (906) is attached to the base portion.
- The container as in claim 1 wherein the container includes a lower end portion (414), the lower end portion is closed.
- A method of making a container (400, 700) for dispensing a product comprising:providing a container including an upper end portion (404, 704), a body portion (402), the body portion extends away from the upper end portion, a base portion (407, 707), the base portion is attached to the upper end portion;inserting a plug seal (405, 705) into the upper end portion, the plug seal
including a valve (460);filling the container with the product; andclosing the lower end portion (414). - The method of claim 11 wherein the closing the lower end portion (414) is performed by heat sealing.
- The method of claim 11 wherein the plug seal (405) includes a retaining ring (462).
- The method of claim 13 wherein the valve (460) is molded onto the retaining ring (462).
- The method of claim 13 wherein the valve (460) is molded separately from the retaining ring (462).
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PCT/US2014/029242 WO2014144714A1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-03-14 | Container |
EP14721135.3A EP2969813B1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-03-14 | Container |
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MX2013002374A (en) * | 2010-09-02 | 2013-04-03 | Kraft Foods Group Brands Llc | Containers and methods for mixing and dispensing beverage concentrates. |
MX365960B (en) * | 2013-02-08 | 2019-06-20 | Obrist Closures Switzerland | Lid with a double hinge for a spout. |
USD728378S1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2015-05-05 | Tc Heartland Llc | Container |
AU2014312045B2 (en) | 2013-08-30 | 2019-03-14 | Hollister Incorporated | Device for trans anal irrigation |
WO2015184365A1 (en) | 2014-05-30 | 2015-12-03 | Hollister Incorporated | Flip open catheter package |
CA2954015C (en) | 2014-07-08 | 2022-08-09 | Hollister Incorporated | Trans anal irrigation platform with bed module |
DK3166661T3 (en) | 2014-07-08 | 2019-04-23 | Hollister Inc | Portable transanal flushing device |
US11020561B2 (en) | 2016-04-22 | 2021-06-01 | Hollister Incorporated | Medical device package with a twist cap |
EP3445436A1 (en) | 2016-04-22 | 2019-02-27 | Hollister Incorporated | Medical device package with flip cap having a snap fit |
DK3481460T3 (en) | 2016-07-08 | 2020-06-22 | Hollister Inc | DESIGN OF A WIRELESS ELECTRONIC PUMP FOR A BODY IRRIGATION DEVICE |
US10392239B2 (en) * | 2016-07-29 | 2019-08-27 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Liquid dispenser |
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- 2014-03-14 BR BR112015022437-7A patent/BR112015022437B1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2014-03-14 KR KR1020157025029A patent/KR102295667B1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2014-03-14 EP EP14721135.3A patent/EP2969813B1/en active Active
- 2014-03-14 CN CN201480027897.5A patent/CN105473460A/en active Pending
- 2014-03-14 EP EP18181217.3A patent/EP3415444B1/en active Active
- 2014-03-14 JP JP2016503024A patent/JP2016515985A/en active Pending
- 2014-03-14 DE DE202014011235.5U patent/DE202014011235U1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2014-03-14 CA CA3166445A patent/CA3166445A1/en active Pending
- 2014-03-14 BR BR122020015648-1A patent/BR122020015648B1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2014-03-14 MX MX2015012174A patent/MX368881B/en active IP Right Grant
- 2014-03-14 WO PCT/US2014/029242 patent/WO2014144714A1/en active Application Filing
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2015
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Also Published As
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MX2015012174A (en) | 2016-05-16 |
AU2014228821A1 (en) | 2015-10-01 |
KR102295667B1 (en) | 2021-08-30 |
BR122020015648B1 (en) | 2022-05-17 |
EP2969813A1 (en) | 2016-01-20 |
DE202014011235U1 (en) | 2018-09-17 |
CN105473460A (en) | 2016-04-06 |
EP2969813B1 (en) | 2018-08-08 |
US20140263436A1 (en) | 2014-09-18 |
BR112015022437B1 (en) | 2021-02-09 |
EP3415444B1 (en) | 2021-01-06 |
BR112015022437A2 (en) | 2017-07-18 |
CA2905117A1 (en) | 2014-09-18 |
CA3166445A1 (en) | 2014-09-18 |
MX2019012345A (en) | 2019-12-02 |
JP2016515985A (en) | 2016-06-02 |
MX368881B (en) | 2019-10-21 |
KR20150139834A (en) | 2015-12-14 |
WO2014144714A1 (en) | 2014-09-18 |
CA2905117C (en) | 2022-09-06 |
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