EP4526222A1

EP4526222A1 - Container with sliding cover

Info

Publication number: EP4526222A1
Application number: EP23808240.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Ser Chuan GOH; Ozgur Polat; Jovena LOON; Satawut NONGHARNPITAK; Vichai WORALERTPICHAN; Leonard Scarola; Paul Anthony Zerfas
Original assignee: Intercontinental Great Brands LLC
Current assignee: Intercontinental Great Brands LLC
Priority date: 2022-05-18
Filing date: 2023-05-17
Publication date: 2025-03-26
Also published as: WO2023225081A1; EP4526222A4; MX2024013429A; JP2025515353A; US20250313384A1; CN119053524A; AU2023273644A1

Abstract

A container for holding a comestible includes a container body defining a container cavity and a first cover positionable on the container body. The first cover includes a first opening and a second opening in communication with the container cavity. A second cover is engagable with an upper surface of the first cover. The second cover is moveable relative to the first cover to expose the first opening in a first dispensing position and to expose the second opening in a second dispensing position.

Description

CONTAINER WITH SLIDING COVER

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/343,258 filed on May 18, 2022 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/395010 filed on August 4, 2022. Both related applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

FIELD

[0002] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the art of packaging and more particularly to a package having a cover movable to access or dispense the comestible products stored therein.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Comestible products including confections, such as chewing gum and hard candies for example, are available to consumers in a variety of different formats. For example, chewing gum is available as stick gum, slab gum, pellet gum, extruded gum, and others. A variety of types of packaging also exist, including certain types of packaging used predominately for a specific format of such comestible products.

[0004] Packaging for comestible products is important not only to the storage of the comestible products, but also to the marketing thereof. In a package containing more than one ty pe of comestible product, it is desirable to allow a user to easily remove a desired number and type of pieces of comestible product therefrom. Further, it may be desirable to maintain the different types of comestible products separately within the package even after several comestible products have been removed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0005] According to an embodiment, a container for holding a comestible includes a container body defining a container cavity and a first cover positionable on the container body. The first cover includes a first opening and a second opening in communication with the container cavity. A second cover is engagable with an upper surface of the first cover. The second cover is moveable relative to the first cover to expose the first opening in a first dispensing position and to expose the second opening in a second dispensing position. [0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second cover is movable relative to the first cover in a first direction to expose the first opening and the second cover is movable relative to the second cover in a second direction to expose the second opening.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second direction is opposite the first direction.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first opening is diametrically opposite the second opening about the first cover.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second cover is positionable relative to the first cover in a neutral position and in the neutral position, the second cover seals the first opening and the second opening.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least one of the first cover and the second cover further comprises at least one stopper extending towards the other of the first cover and the second cover, the at least one stopper being configured to restrict unintentional movement of the second cover from the neutral position.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the other of the first cover and the second cover further comprises a lip extending therefrom, the lip being engagable with the at least one stopper to restrict the unintentional movement of the second cover from the neutral position.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second cover further comprises at least one wall extending from a lower surface, wherein a configuration of the at least one wall is identical to the first opening, the at least one wall being substantially aligned with the first opening when the second cover is in the neutral position.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one wall abuts the upper surface of the first cover.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a divider arranged within the container cavity to form a first compartment and a second compartment, the first opening being coupled to the first compartment and the second opening being coupled to the second compartment. [0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second cover is slidable relative to the first cover along a path of movement oriented perpendicular to the divider.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least one of the first cover and the second cover further comprises an indicator representative of a parameter of the comestible receivable within the first compartment.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the container cavity further comprises a third compartment and the container body further comprises a third opening in communication with the third compartment.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments including a guide structure disposed on an upper surface of the first cover, the second cover being engageable with the guide structure.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the guide structure defines at least one end position along a path of movement of the second cover relative to the first cover.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the guide structure further comprises a first guide and second guide oriented parallel to the first guide, at least one of the first guide and the second guide having a foot arranged at an end thereof, wherein the foot defines the at least one end position along the path of movement of the second cover.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second cover further comprises a lip extending therefrom, the lip being slidably engagable with the foot.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second cover is slidably engageable with the guide structure.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the guide structure further comprises a first guide and second guide oriented parallel to the first guide and the second cover further comprises a first guide protrusion and a second guide protrusion extending from a lower surface of the second cover, the first guide protrusion being slidably engagable with the first guide and the second guide protrusion being slidably engagable with the second guide. [0024] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least one of the first guide protrusion and the second guide protrusion includes an inward-facing portion such that a channel is formed between the second cover and the inward-facing portion, and at least one of the first guide and the second guide further comprise an outward-facing flange, the outward-facing flange being arranged within the channel.

[0025] According to an embodiment, a container for holding a comestible includes a container body defining a container cavity having at least a first compartment and a second compartment formed therein. A guide structure extends from the container body and a cover is movably coupled to the container body via the guide structure. The cover is movable to a first dispensing position to access the first compartment and being movable to a second dispensing position to access the second compartment.

[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the container body includes a first opening in communication with the first compartment and a second opening in communication with the second compartment.

[0027] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the cover further comprises a first notch and a second notch, the first notch being aligned with the first opening in the first dispensing position and second notch being aligned with the second opening in the second dispensing position.

[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the container cavity further comprises a third compartment and the container body includes a third opening in communication with the third compartment.

[0029] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the container body includes at least one sidewall and at least one of the first opening and the second opening is formed in the at least one sidewall.

[0030] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the cover includes a first portion and a second portion arranged at an angle to the first portion, wherein the second portion selectively seals the at least one of the first opening and the second opening formed in the at least one sidewall.

[0031] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the guide structure is located at the at least one sidewall. [0032] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the guide structure is located at a different surface of the container body or of the cover than the at least one sidewall.

[0033] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising an inner cover positionable on the container body, the first cover including a first opening in communication with the first compartment and a second opening in communication with the second compartment.

[0034] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a portion of the guide structure is arranged at the inner cover.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:

[0036] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a container according to an embodiment;

[0037] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a base of the container of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment;

[0038] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an inner cover of the container of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment;

[0039] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of a cover in a dispensing position relative to an inner cover of a container according to an embodiment;

[0040] FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of a cover in a neutral position relative to an inner cover of a container according to an embodiment;

[0041] FIG. 6 is a detailed cross-sectional view of an interface between the cover and the inner cover of a container according to an embodiment;

[0042] FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C are side views of a container having a cover in a neutral position, a first dispensing position, and a second dispensing position according to an embodiment;

[0043] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a container having a cover in a first dispensing position according to an embodiment;

[0044] FIG. 8B is a perspective view of a container having a cover in a second dispensing position according to an embodiment;

[0045] FIG. 9 is an end view of an interface between the cover and a guide structure of a container according to an embodiment; [0046] FIG. 10 A is a perspective view of a container body according to an embodiment; [0047] FIG. 1 OB is a perspective view of a container body according to an embodiment; [0048] FIG. 10C is an end view of a container having a container body as shown in either FIG. 10A or FIG. 10B according to end embodiment;

[0049] FIG. 11 A is a perspective view of a container according to an embodiment;

[0050] FIG. 11B is a top view of an inner cover of the container of FIG. 11A according to an embodiment; and

[0051] FIG. 11C includes top views of the container of FIGS. 11A and 11B with the cover in a neutral position and various dispensing positions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures.

[0053] With reference now to FIGS. 1-8B, an exemplary container 20 is illustrated. As shown, the container 20 includes a tray or container body 22, a first or inner cover 40 affixable to the container body 22, and a second or outer cover 24 movable relative to the container body 22 and the first cover 40. The container body 22 includes an open end 26, a closed bottom 28, and one or more sidewalls 30 extending from the bottom 28 to define a hollow container cavity 32 of the container body 22. Although only two sidewalls are visible in the FIG. 1, it should be understood that any suitable number of sidewalls, such as four sidewalls (FIG. 2) are within the scope of the disclosure. With the first cover 40 removed, the cavity 32 is openable to ambient environment at the open end 26 via an opening 33. In an exemplary embodiment, an outer surface of the bottom 28 has a generally planar configuration for positioning the package on a flat surface, such as a countertop. Although the container body 22 is illustrated as being generally square in shape with curved or rounded comers, it should be understood that a container body 22 having another shape, such as a circular, triangular, or rectangular base for example, is contemplated herein.

[0054] A plurality of consumable products, such as gum, candy, chocolates and other comestibles or confections may be arranged within the container cavity 32 of the container body 22. The plurality of consumable products within the container cavity 32 may be substantially identical, or alternatively, may be different. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one divider 34 is arranged within the hollow cavity 32 of the container body 22 to separate the container cavity 32 into a plurality of distinct compartments. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 1 -8B, a divider 34 extends from an inner surface of the bottom 28 of the container body 22, between a first sidewall 30a and a second, opposite sidewall 30b (see FIG. 2). As a result, a first compartment 36a is arranged adjacent a first side of the divider 34 and a second compartment 36b is arranged adjacent a second, opposite side of the divider 34. The divider 34 may be arranged at a center of the container cavity 32 such that the first compartment 36a and the second compartment 36b are substantially equal in size. However, in other embodiments the plurality of compartments 36a, 36b may vary in size.

[0055] Further, in other embodiments, the container cavity 32 may be separated by multiple dividers into a plurality of compartments. For example, in the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 11A-11B, the container body 22 includes a first divider 34a and a second divider 34b, separated from one another such that the container cavity 32 has three distinct compartments 36a, 36b, and 36c. It should be understood that a container cavity 32 having any number of dividers 34 is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0056] In embodiments that include multiple compartments, a consumable product may be arranged within some or all of the compartments. As best shown in FIG. 2, a first consumable product 38a, such as having a first flavor for example, may be arranged within a first compartment 36a and a second consumable product 38b, such as having a second flavor for example, may be arranged within a second compartment 36b. In such embodiments, the consumable products 38a, 38b within the plurality of compartments may be the same type of consumable product, or alternatively, may be different types of consumable products. In an embodiment, the flavor of the consumable products within the plurality of compartments, such as the first flavor of the first consumable products 38a and the second flavor of the second consumable products 38b, may be substantially the same; however, an intensity of the flavor of the products within one of the compartments may be different, for example greater, than the intensity of the flavor of the products within another of the plurality of compartments.

[0057] As is noted above, the container 20 includes the second cover 24 that is movably mounted to the container body 22 to selectively provide access to at least a portion of the hollow container cavity 32. In embodiments where the container cavity 32 includes a plurality of compartments, such as compartments 36a and 36b for example, the cover 24 may be movable, as will be described in more detail below, to selectively provide access to each of the plurality of compartments 36a, 36b, individually. [0058] The first cover or inner cover 40, best shown in FIG. 3, is affixed to the container body 22 in overlapping arrangement with the first open end 26 thereof. The size and shape of the inner cover 40 may be generally complementary to the open end 26 of the container body 22. In an embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 5, a ridge or connector 42 may protrude or extend from a first surface 44 of the inner cover 40 towards the container body 22. The connector 42 may be arranged about the substantial entirety of the perimeter of the inner cover 40 and is configured to contact a surface of the at least one sidewall 30 of the container body 22. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, an exterior of the connector 42 is configured to abut an interior surface of the at least one sidewall 30 such as to form a press-fit or snap-fit connection between the inner cover 40 and the container body 22. In such embodiments, the connector 42 may include at least one gap or break 46 formed therein, such as a pair of breaks 46 for example, within which the divider 34 is receivable when the inner cover 40 is coupled to the container body 22. The first cover 40 may be unitary with the container body 22, otherwise permanently affixed to the container body 22, or removably affixed to the container body 22 as shown in the exemplary embodiments of the Figures.

[0059] In the illustrated, non-hmiting embodiment of FIGS. 1-8B, the first cover 40 has at least one opening formed therein, and in embodiments where the container body 22 has a plurality of separate compartments, the first cover 40 has one or more openings associated with each of the plurality of compartments 36a, 36b. In the illustrated, non-hmiting embodiment, the inner cover 40 includes a first opening 48a associated with and in vertical alignment with the first compartment 36a and a second opening 48b associated with and in vertical alignment with the second compartment 36b.

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment, the inner cover 40 has an indicator 50 positioned at or near at least one of the openings 48a, 48b to indicate to a user one or more parameters of the products arranged within a corresponding compartment of the cavity 32. For example, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a word indicating the flavor of the products within each compartment 36a, 36b is positioned adjacent each opening 48a, 48b, and may be formed in a second, upper surface 52 of the inner cover 40 (see FIG. 3). However, it should be understood that another type of indicator, such as a symbol, color, or other marking for example, arranged at any suitable location is contemplated herein. Furthermore, it should be understood that the indicator need not be limited to the cover 40, and alternatively or additionally may be arranged at any suitable location, including on the container body 22 and the outer cover 24. [0061] Although the first opening 48a is arranged closest to a first sidewall 30a of the container body 22 and the second opening 48b is arranged closest to a second sidewall 30b of the container body 22, such that the openings 48a, 48b are diametrically opposite one another, embodiments where the first opening 48a and the second opening 48b are axially or otherwise aligned relative to a sidewall 30 are also contemplated herein. Further, it should be understood that the size and shape of the at least one opening 48a, 48b is selected based on the product located within the adjacent compartment 36a, 36b of the hollow cavity 32, the product being configured to pass through the opening 48a, 48b The first opening 48a and the second opening 48b are shown as being substantially identical in size and shape; however, embodiments where the configuration of the openings 48a, 48b vary are also contemplated herein.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1-8B, the upper surface 52 of the inner cover 40 includes a guide structure 54 configured to cooperate with the second cover 24, also referred to herein as the outer cover, to define a path of movement of the cover 24 relative to the container body 22. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the guide structure 54 includes a first guide 56 and a second guide 58 spaced apart and oriented generally parallel to one another, and in some embodiments perpendicularly to the divider 34. In an embodiment, the guide structure 54 is generally H-shaped. Further, a foot 60 may be arranged at one or both ends of the first guide 56 and the second guide 58, respectively. These feet 60 are configured to face inwardly towards the opposite guide 56, 58, and may function as a stop to define at least one end position along the path of movement of the cover 24 relative to the container body 22, as will be described in more detail below. The guide structure 54 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only, and it should be understood that a guide structure having another suitable configuration is also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0063] Further, it should be understood that in other embodiments all or at least a portion of the guide structure 54 may be mounted to another component of the container 20. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the guide structure 54 is located at at least one surface of the container body 22. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a portion of the guide structure, such as one or more guides 56, or alternatively, a first guide structure 54 is arranged at an exterior surface of a first sidewall 30a. Similarly, a portion of a guide structure, such as one or more guides 58, or alternatively, a second guide structure 54b is arranged at an exterior surface of a second sidewall 30b. As shown, the first and second guide structures 54a, 54b are substantially identical. However, embodiments where a configuration of the multiple guide structures 54 vary are also contemplated herein. [0064] With reference to FIG. 4, a portion of a first or lower surface 62 of the cover 24 is illustrated in more detail. As shown, the lower surface 62 of the second cover 24 has a lip 64 formed about at least a portion of its periphery and extending towards the inner cover 40. In an embodiment, at least one wall 66 having a configuration substantially identical to an adjacent opening 48a, 48b formed the inner cover 40 may extend from the lower surface 62 of the second cover 24 towards the inner cover 40. When the cover 24 is centered relative to the container body 22 and substantially aligned with the inner cover 40, also referred to herein as the neutral position, the wall 66 extending from the cover 24 is vertically aligned with a border of a respective opening 48a, 48b. In some embodiments, the at least one wall 66 may abut the upper surface 52 of the inner cover 40 or may be substantially proximate thereto such that a minimal axial space is formed between the wall 66 and the inner cover 40 adjacent to the openings 48a, 48b. Although the at least one wall 66 is illustrated and described herein as extending from the lower surface 62 of the outer cover 24, it should be understood that in other embodiments the at least one wall 66 may extend from any suitable surface of the outer cover 24 facing toward and in alignment with the opening 48.

[0065] In an embodiment, a surface of the outer cover 24, such as the lower surface 62 for example, additionally includes at least one guide protrusion arranged in engagement with the guide structure 54. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the cover 24 includes a first guide protrusion 70 and a second guide protrusion 72 arranged parallel to and spaced from the first guide protrusion 70 (see FIG. 4). A surface of each of the first guide protrusion 70 and the second guide protrusion 72 is slidably engagable with a surface of each of the first guide 56 and the second guide 58 of the inner cover 40, respectively. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, an inner surface of each guide protrusion 70, 72 is arranged in contact with an outer surface of a respective guide 56, 58. However, in other embodiments, the outer surface of each guide protrusion 70, 72 may be arranged in contact with an inner surface of a respective guide 56, 58.

[0066] With reference now to FIG. 6, an example of the interface between the guides 56, 58 and the guide protrusions 70, 72 is illustrated in more detail. It should be understood that the clearances shown between components in the FIG. are exaggerated for enhanced clarity. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, each of the first guide 56 and the second guide 58 has an outward-facing flange 74, such as at a distal end thereof. Similarly, each of the first and second guide protrusions 70, 72 has an inward-facing portion 76 which creates an under-cut channel 78 betw een the interior surface 62 of the cover 24 and the inward facing portion 76. As shown, the outwardly facing flanges 74 are receivable within the channel 78. For example, the outwardly facing flanges 74 may snap, slide, or otherwise move into and engage the channels 78 to create an interference fit while still allowing sliding movement between the guide protrusions 70, 72 and the guides 56, 58.

[0067] It should be understood that the interface between the guide structure 54 and the second cover 24 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only and that any suitable interface is contemplated herein. For example, in an embodiment, best shown in FIG. 10C, the guide structure 54 may include a single guide having a T-shaped flange engaged with the inward-facing portions 76 of both the first and second guide protrusions 70, 72. In other embodiments, the first and second guide protrusions 70, 72 may have outward-facing portions and the first guide 56 and the second guide 58 may have inward-facing flanges engaged with the outward facing portions, respectively. Alternatively, one of the second cover 24 and the guide structure 54 includes at least one groove and the other of the second cover 24 and the guide structure 54 has at least one protrusion receivable within the at least one groove. Any configuration that allows the second cover 24 to move relative to the first cover 40 or the container body 22 in a controlled manner to access the first and second openings 48a,48b is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0068] With reference now to FIGS. 7A-8B, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the path of movement defined by the engagement between the guide structure 54 and the guide protrusions 70, 72 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the divider 34 as shown. However, embodiments where the path of movement has another orientation relative to the divider 34, such as where the path of movement of the outer cover 24 is parallel to the divider 34 for example, are also contemplated herein. The second cover 24 is movable, for example slidable or translatable relative to the guide structure 54 of the inner cover 40, between a neutral position (FIG. 7A), a first dispensing position (FIGS. 7B and 8A), and a second dispensing position (FIG. 7C and 8B). From the neutral position in which both the first opening 48a and the second opening 48b are closed, the cover 24 is movable in a first direction DI to the first dispensing position to expose the at least one opening associated with a first compartment 36a of the container body 22. The cover 24 may be movable in the first direction DI until the lip 64 of the cover 24 abuts a foot 60 arranged at an adjacent end of the guide structure 54, stopping the second cover 24 from over-sliding or sliding off the first cover 40 and the container body 22 in direction DI. [0069] The cover 24 is similarly movable in a second direction D2 from the neutral position to the second dispensing position in which the at least one opening 48b associated with the second compartment 36b of the container body 22 is exposed. The cover 24 may be movable in the second direction D2 until the lip 64 of the cover 24 abuts a foot 60 arranged at an adj acent end of the guide structure 54, stopping the second cover 24 from over-sliding or sliding off the first cover 40 and the body 22 in direction D2.

[0070] Further, in an embodiment, the at least one stopper protrudes from one of the inner cover 40 and the outer cover 24 towards the other of the inner cover 40 and the outer cover 24. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the at least one stopper is arranged at the upper surface 52 of the inner cover 40 and is arranged along the path of movement of the cover 24. The at least one stopper is arranged adjacent a side of the inner cover 40, such as near the at least one opening. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, best shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, a first stopper 80a is arranged near the first opening 48a and a second stopper 80b is arranged near the second opening 48b. The stoppers 80a, 80b extend upwardly from the second surface such that the stoppers 80a, 80b engage or contact the lip 64 of the cover 24. Accordingly, the stoppers 80a, 80b are configured to restrict unintentional movement of the cover 24 from the neutral position However, the contour of the stoppers 80a, 80b is selected such that the lip 64 can traverse the stoppers 80a, 80b when a minimum force is applied to the cover 24 along the path of movement. The minimum force may correlate to a force typically applied by a user to the cover. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a height of the stopper relative to the inner cover 40 decreases along the path of movement from adjacent a side of the inner cover 40 towards a center of the inner cover 40 such that the stopper 80a, 80b has a sloped or downwardly curved configuration. In an embodiment, the stoppers 80a, 80b may have a two-sided configuration where both ends of the stopper 80a, 80b, are sloped towards a flat central location

[0071] With reference now to FIGS. 10A and 10B, in an embodiment, the at least one opening is formed in a portion of the container body 22. As shown a first opening 48a and a second opening 48b may be formed in a first sidewall 30a (see FIG. 10A) in alignment with the respective compartments 36a, 36b of the container cavity 32. However, in other embodiments as shown in FIG. 10B, a first opening 48a may be formed in the first sidewall 30a and a second opening 48b may be formed in a second, opposite sidewall 30b. Although the first and second sidewalls 30a, 30b are illustrated as being arranged opposite one another, embodiment where the first sidewall and the second sidewall are arranged directly adjacent to one another are also contemplated herein. It should be understood that in embodiments where one or more openings are formed at a sidewall of the container body 22, the first end 26 of the container body 22 may, but need not be open as previously described. Further, the guide structure 54 may be arranged at the first end 26, the inner cover 40, or alternatively, may also be arranged at the sidewall having an opening formed therein.

[0072] When the openings 48a, 48b are formed in one or more sidewalls 30 of the container body 22, the inner cover 40 may be substantially identical in size to the first open end 26 of the container body 22 as previously described such that the inner cover 40 seals the first open end 26. Further, the second cover 24, best shown in FIG. 10C, may include a first portion in overlapping arrangement with the inner cover 40 and a second portion extending at an angle to the first portion and in overlapping arrangement with the one or more sidewalls 30 including the at least one opening. In embodiments where the openings 48 are formed in opposite sidewalls 30a, 30b of the container body 22, as shown in FIG. 10C, the second portion includes a first flange 92a and a second flange 92b arranged at opposite sides of the first portion 90. An axial length of the one or more flanges 92a, 92b may be equal to the axial length of the container, or alternatively, may be shorter than the axial length thereof. In such embodiments, the inner cover 40 may include a guide structure 54 configured to cooperate with the second cover 24, such as previously described.

[0073] In embodiments where the plurality of openings 48a, 48b are formed in a single sidewall 30 of the container body 22, the container 20 may, but need not include an inner cover 40. Regardless of whether the container 20 includes an inner cover 40, the cover 24 may only be positioned adjacent to the sidewall 30 including the openings 48a, 48b. Although the openings 48a, 48b are described as being formed in a sidewall 30 extending between a first and second end 26, 28 of the container body 22, it should be understood that the surfaces that form the first end 26, the second end 28, and the sidewalls 30 of the container body 22 may vary based on an orientation of the container body 22. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that the first end 26 of the container body 22 in a first configuration may be a sidewall 30 in a second configuration, and therefore the cover 24 and/or inner cover 40 may be located adjacent any of the first end 26, the second end 28, and/or a sidewall 30.

[0074] With reference now to non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 11A-11C, as previously described, the container body 22 includes a first divider 34a and a second divider 34b such that the container cavity 32 has three distinct compartments 36a, 36b, and 36c. As a result, the inner cover 40 connectable to the first end of the container body 22 has a corresponding first opening 48a associated with the first compartment 36a, second opening 48b associated with the second compartment 36b, and third opening 48c associated with the third compartment 36c. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the body of the second cover 24 includes one or more notches or cutouts 100 formed therein. The cover 24 is movable between a plurality of positions such that the at least one cutout 100 is arranged in alignment w ith one of the plurality of openings 48a, 48b, 48c. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the cover includes three cutouts 100a, 100b, 100c. The first cutout 100a and the third cutout 100c may be arranged adjacent a first side of the cover 24, near the first and third openings 48a, 48c, respectively, and the second cutout 100b may be arranged at a second side of the cover 24, near the second opening 48b.

[0075] As best shown in FIG. 11C, the cover 24 is movable relative to the container body 22 and the inner cover 40, via the engagement with the guide structure 54, between a neutral position, and a plurality of dispensing positions. In the neutral position, each of the plurality of openings 48a, 48b, 48c is sealed by the cover 24. The cover 24 is movable, for example slidable, in a first direction, to a first dispensing position in which the first notch 100a is aligned with the first opening 48a. In the first dispensing position, the second opening 48b and the third opening 48c remain sealed by the cover 24. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the cover 24 is movable in the second, opposite direction from the neutral position to a second dispensing position in which the second notch 100b is aligned with the second opening 48b. In the second dispensing position, the first opening 48a and the third opening 48c remain sealed by the cover 24. As shown, the cover 24 is movable further in the second direction to a third dispensing position in which the third notch 100c is aligned with the third opening 48c. In the third dispensing position, the first opening 48a and the second opening 48b remain sealed by the cover 24. It should be understood that the configuration of the cover 24 as described herein is intended as an example only and that any suitable configuration that is movable to selectively access a single compartment of the container body 22 at a time is contemplated herein.

[0076] A container 20 as illustrated and described herein allows comestible products to be removed from a compartment of the container 20, while restricting movement of comestible products from another compartment of the base. Further, one or more components of the container 20 may be formed from a rigid plastic for ease of manufacturability and enhanced durability'. [0077] The term “about” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application.

[0078] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and/or groups thereof.

[0079] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment or embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A container for holding a comestible, the container comprising: a container body defining a container cavity; a first cover positionable on said container body, said first cover including a first opening and a second opening in communication with said container cavity; and a second cover engagable with an upper surface of said first cover, said second cover being moveable relative to said first cover to expose said first opening in a first dispensing position, and to expose said second opening in a second dispensing position.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein said second cover is movable relative to said first cover in a first direction to expose said first opening and said second cover is movable relative to said second cover in a second direction to expose said second opening.

3. The container of claim 2, wherein said second direction is opposite said first direction.

4. The container of claim 1, wherein said first opening is diametrically opposite said second opening about said first cover.

5. The container of claim 1, wherein said second cover is positionable relative to said first cover in a neutral position and in said neutral position, said second cover seals said first opening and said second opening.

6. The container of claim 5, wherein at least one of said first cover and said second cover further comprises at least one stopper extending towards the other of said first cover and said second cover, said at least one stopper being configured to restrict unintentional movement of said second cover from said neutral position.

7. The container of claim 6, wherein the other of said first cover and said second cover further comprises a lip extending therefrom, said lip being engagable with said at least one stopper to restrict said unintentional movement of said second cover from said neutral position.

8. The container of claim 5, wherein said second cover further comprises at least one wall extending from a lower surface, wherein a configuration of said at least one wall is identical to said first opening, said at least one wall being substantially aligned with said first opening when said second cover is in said neutral position.

9. The container of claim 8, wherein said at least one wall abuts said upper surface of said first cover.

10. The container of claim 1, further comprising a divider arranged within said container cavity to form a first compartment and a second compartment, said first opening being coupled to said first compartment and said second opening being coupled to said second compartment.

11. The container of claim 10, wherein said second cover is slidable relative to said first cover along a path of movement oriented perpendicular to said divider.

12. The container of claim 10, wherein at least one of said first cover and said second cover further comprises an indicator representative of a parameter of the comestible receivable within said first compartment.

13. The container of claim 10, wherein said container cavity further comprises a third compartment and said container body further comprises a third opening in communication with said third compartment.

14. The container of claim 1, further comprising a guide structure disposed on an upper surface of said first cover, said second cover being engageable with said guide structure.

15. The container of claim 14, wherein said guide structure defines at least one end position along a path of movement of said second cover relative to said first cover.

16. The container of claim 1 , wherein said guide structure further comprises a first guide and second guide oriented parallel to said first guide, at least one of said first guide and said second guide having a foot arranged at an end thereof, wherein said foot defines said at least one end position along said path of movement of said second cover.

17. The container of claim 16, wherein said second cover further comprises a lip extending therefrom, said lip being slidably engagable with said foot.

18. The container of claim 14, wherein said second cover is slidably engageable with said guide structure.

19. The container of claim 18, wherein said guide structure further comprises a first guide and second guide oriented parallel to said first guide and said second cover further comprises a first guide protrusion and a second guide protrusion extending from a lower surface of said second cover, said first guide protrusion being slidably engagable with said first guide and said second guide protrusion being slidably engagable with said second guide.

20. The container of claim 19, wherein at least one of said first guide protrusion and said second guide protrusion includes an inward-facing portion such that a channel is formed between said second cover and said inward-facing portion, and at least one of said first guide and said second guide further comprise an outward-facing flange, said outward-facing flange being arranged within said channel.

21. A container for holding a comestible, the container comprising: a container body defining a container cavity having at least a first compartment and a second compartment formed therein; a guide structure extending from said container body; and a cover movably coupled to said container body via said guide structure, said cover being movable to a first dispensing position to access said first compartment and being movable to a second dispensing position to access said second compartment.

22. The container of claim 21, wherein said container body includes a first opening in communication with said first compartment and a second opening in communication with said second compartment.

23. The container of claim 22, wherein the cover further comprises a first notch and a second notch, said first notch being aligned with said first opening in said first dispensing position and second notch being aligned with said second opening in said second dispensing position.

24. The container of claim 22, wherein said container cavity further comprises a third compartment and said container body includes a third opening in communication with said third compartment.

25. The container of claim 22, wherein said container body includes at least one sidewall and at least one of said first opening and said second opening is formed in said at least one sidewall.

26. The container of claim 25, wherein said cover includes a first portion and a second portion arranged at an angle to said first portion, wherein said second portion selectively seals said at least one of said first opening and said second opening formed in said at least one sidewall.

27. The container of claim 25, wherein said guide structure is located at said at least one sidewall.

28. The container of claim 25, wherein said guide structure is located at a different surface of said container body or of said cover than said at least one sidewall.

29. The container of claim 21, further comprising an inner cover positionable on said container body, said first cover including a first opening in communication with said first compartment and a second opening in communication with said second compartment.

30. The container of claim 29, wherein a portion of said guide structure is arranged at said inner cover.