FR2689100A1 - Container structure - has pivoting cover operated by flexible rod, whose reaction force maintains cover sealed on container body, and locking mechanism for closed position - Google Patents

Abstract

The container (10) has a body (12) forming a cavity (16) opening onto a lateral wall (18) extending along the periphery of the cavity. A movable cover (14) opens or closes the cavity opening. A tipping mechanism (34) connected to the cover is located at an end of the body. The mechanism comprises a deformable flexible tipping rod (40) which produces a reaction force. A locking mechanism (24) locks the cover (14) in the closed position. A projection (48) and one of the extensions (36,38) of the cover (14) cause a deformation of the rod (40) and holds the cover closed through the reaction force and maintains in sealed contact the body and cover surfaces. A contact line between the projection (48) and the container body causes the cover to pivot open. USE/ADVANTAGE - Cosmetic case which enables cover opening with minimal cover deformation and provides satisfactory sealing in closed position.

Description

CONTAINER STRUCTURE
The present invention generally relates to a container structure comprising a cover at one end and a ratchet at the other end for locking the cover in the closed position. More particularly, the present invention relates to a container structure suitable for example for a cosmetic case, in which the cover can be resiliently projected to facilitate its opening for use.

 As is well known, a container container for storing cosmetics and the like has a container body and a cover hinged on the container body for opening and closing the container.

 With regard to the articulation mechanisms of this type of container, various attempts have been made to provide them with additional functions. A typical attempt consists in providing a stress for the cover so that it can be projected elastically to facilitate its opening and for convenience of use.

 For example, Japanese Unexamined Utility Model Publication No. 59-13206 describes a container structure, in which a hinged rear end of the lid is slightly raised in the closed position of the lid by lifting means so that it is a single rod of articulation can be deformed by the accumulating stress which is transformed into a reaction actuating force to project the cover elastically upon opening, automatically. When the cover is held in the closed position, the reaction actuating force is retained by locking the cover in the closed position by a locking or latching mechanism. When the locking mechanism is released from the locking position, the actuating force acts on the cover which is released from its constraint in the closed position to slightly project elastically to facilitate the opening of the cover in use.

 However, in the conventional construction as described above, since the rear end of the cover is held in a slightly raised position relative to the container body to accumulate the reaction actuating force, a complete seal of the the internal space of the container for insulation from the external environment is not guaranteed. I1 may result in the penetration of dust, dirt, moisture etc. which may degrade the contents of the container. Furthermore, since the conventional structure also exerts a stress on the cover per se while it is kept in the closed position 7 permanent deformation can be exerted on the cover. In addition, the lifting means is disposed between the container and the lid with a substantial thickness, which increases the total thickness of the container. This increased thickness is a particular drawback with regard to use as a cosmetic case.

 Consequently, the object of the present invention is to provide a container structure which has a function of elastic projection upon opening while maintaining a satisfactory seal in the closed position.

 Another object of the present invention is to provide a container structure which minimizes the stress which otherwise causes deformation of the cover.

 Another object of the present invention is to provide a container structure which does not require an additional thickness for the elastic projection function and thus contributes to reducing the thickness of the container.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a container comprises
a container body forming a cavity open on one side within it by a side wall extending along the periphery of the cavity, the side wall having a first surface at its pointed end;
a cover for operatively closing the opening of the cavity of the container body, the cover being movable between an open position exposing the cavity through the opening for access from the outside and a closed position for closing the opening, lid having a second surface fitted closely to the first surface of the container body in the closed position of the lid;
an articulation mechanism disposed at one end of the container body for pivotally connecting the cover, the articulation mechanism comprising at least one elastically deformable articulation rod producing an elastic reaction force;
a locking mechanism for locking the cover in the closed position;
a first means, associated with the articulation mechanism, for causing a deformation of the articulation rod while the cover is held in the closed position to accumulate the elastic reaction force, by maintaining a close and tight contact between the first and the second surface; and
a second means, associated with the articulation mechanism, and serving to unlock the locking mechanism, to transform the elastic reaction force of the articulation rod into a pivoting force to pivot the cover in an opening direction.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a hinge mechanism for a container comprising a container body having a side wall with a first flat pointed end surface and forming an open cavity at one end therein and a closing lid functionally the open end of the cavity, the cover being movable between an open position and a closed position tightly and sealingly adjusting a second planar surface on the first surface of the container body, the articulation mechanism comprising:
a first articulation element formed integrally with the container body and extending towards the rear thereof;
a second articulation element formed integrally with the cover and extending towards the rear thereof, the second articulation element being designed to be aligned with the first articulation element in the open position of the cover;
pivot means extending through the first and second articulation elements to allow pivoting movement of the second articulation element relative to the first articulation elements, the pivot means being made of an elastically deformable material which can accumulate an elastic restoring force while the pivoting means is deformed from an initial configuration;
means active in the closed position of the cover to cause a rearward offset of the second extension relative to the first extension from the alignment position to cause deformation of the pivoting means while maintaining a tight and tight fit between the first and the second surface for accumulating an elastic force so as to rotate the cover in the opening direction when the cover is released from the closed position.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a hinge mechanism for a container comprising a container body having a side wall with a first flat pointed end surface and forming an open cavity at one end therein and a closing lid functionally the open end of the cavity, the cover being movable between an open position and a closed position tightly and sealingly adjusting a second planar surface on the first surface of the container body, the articulation mechanism comprising:
a first articulation element formed integrally with the container body and extending towards the rear thereof;
a second articulation element formed integrally with the cover and extending towards the rear thereof, the second articulation element being designed to be aligned with the first articulation element in the open position of the cover;
pivot means extending through the first and second articulation elements to allow pivoting movement of the second articulation element relative to the first articulation elements, the pivot means being made of an elastically deformable material which can accumulate an elastic restoring force while the pivoting means is deformed from an initial configuration;
means active in the closed position of the cover to cause a vertical offset of one extension between the first and the second extension relative to the other from the alignment position to cause a deformation of the pivoting means while maintaining a close fit and sealed between the first and second surfaces to accumulate an elastic force so as to rotate the cover in the opening direction when the cover is released from the closed position.

 The present invention will become apparent in light of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings of preferred embodiments of the present invention which, however, should not be considered as limiting the present invention but as being given for the purpose of explanation and understanding.

On the drawings
Figure 1 is a side elevation in section of the first embodiment of a container according to the present invention;
Figure 2 is a section of the first embodiment of the container according to line II-II of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a section on a larger scale illustrating a hinge portion of the container of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is an enlarged sectional plan view of the hinge portion of the container of Figure 1;
Figure 5 is an enlarged section similar to Figure 3 but illustrating a modification of the first embodiment of the container structure;
Figure 6 is a section on a larger scale similar to Figure 5 but illustrating the cover in the condition projected elastically ;;
Figures 7 and 8 are sectional plan views respectively illustrating other modifications of the hinge mechanisms to be used in the first embodiment of the container structure;
Figure 9 is a longitudinal section of the second embodiment of a container structure according to the present invention;
Figure 10 is a sectional plan view taken along line XX of Figure 9;
Figures 11 and 12 are enlarged sections illustrating modifications of the second embodiment of the container structure of Figures 9 and 10;
Figure 13 is a longitudinal section illustrating another modification of the second embodiment of the container structure of Figures 9 and 10;
Figure 14 is a sectional plan view of the container of Figure 13;
Figure 15 is a sectional plan view of yet another modification of the second embodiment of the container structure of Figures 9 and 10;
Figure 16 is an enlarged sectional view of the hinge mechanism to be used in the embodiment of Figure 15;
Figure 17 is an enlarged sectional plan view illustrating the part corresponding to Figure 16 in the modification of Figure 15;
Figure 18 is a longitudinal section of the third embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention;
Figure 19 is a sectional plan view along line XIX-XIX of Figure 18;
Figure 20 is an enlarged sectional view of a hinge mechanism employed in the third embodiment of the container structure of Figures 18 and 19;
Figure 21 is an enlarged plan view of the hinge mechanism of Figure 20;
Figure 22 is a longitudinal section illustrating the fourth embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention;
Figure 23 is a sectional plan view of the fourth embodiment of the container structure of Figure 22;
Figure 24 is an enlarged sectional view illustrating the hinge mechanism employed in the fourth embodiment of the container structure of Figures 22 and 23;
FIG. 25 is a section on a larger scale illustrating the main part of the articulation mechanism of the fourth embodiment of the container structure;
Figure 26 is a partial perspective view of the rear end portion of the container body illustrated with the cover removed;
Figure 27 is a longitudinal section of a modification of the fourth embodiment of the container structure of Figure 22;
Figure 28 is a sectional plan view of the embodiment of Figure 26; -
Figure 29 is a partial perspective view of the rear end portion of the container body of the embodiment of Figure 26, which is illustrated with the cover removed;
Figure 30 is a longitudinal section of the fifth embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention;
Figure 31 is a sectional plan view taken along line XXXI-XXXI of Figure 30;
Figure 32 is an enlarged sectional view of the hinge mechanism employed in the fifth embodiment of the container structure of Figures 29 and 30; ;
Figure 33 is a partial section illustrating the main part of the fifth embodiment of the container structure;
Figure 34 is a partial enlarged section showing the detail of the hinge mechanism in the fifth embodiment of the container structure;
Figure 35 is an enlarged section similar to Figure 33 but illustrating a modification of the fifth embodiment of the container structure of the present invention;
Figure 36 is a partial section of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 35;
Figure 37 is a partial section similar to Figure 36 but illustrating another modification of the fifth embodiment of the container structure;
Figure 38 is a longitudinal section of the sixth embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention;
Figure 39 is a sectional plan view of the sixth embodiment of the container structure of Figure 38;
Figures 40 and 41 are enlarged sections illustrating the hinge mechanism employed in the sixth embodiment of the container structure of Figures 38 and 39;
Figures 42 and 43 are enlarged sections similar to Figures 40 and 41 but illustrating a modification of the sixth embodiment of the container structure;
Figure 44 is a longitudinal section of the seventh embodiment of a container structure according to the present invention;
Figure 45 is a sectional plan view of the seventh embodiment of the container structure of Figure 44;
Figures 46 (A) and 46 (B) are enlarged sections illustrating the hinge mechanism employed in the seventh embodiment of the container structure in the closed position;
Figures 47 (A) and 47 (B) are enlarged sections illustrating the hinge mechanism employed in the seventh embodiment of the container structure in the open position;
Figures 48 (A) and 48 (B) are enlarged sections similar to Figures 46 (A) and 46 (B) but illustrating a modification of the seventh embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 49 (A) and 49 (B) are enlarged sections similar to Figures 46 (A) and 46 (B) but illustrating a modification of the seventh embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 50 is a longitudinal section of the eighth embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention;
Figure 51 is a sectional plan view of the eighth embodiment of the container structure of Figure 50;
Figures 52 (A) and 52 (B) are enlarged sections of the hinge mechanism employed in the eighth embodiment of the container structure, which illustrates the condition of the hinge mechanism while the cover is held in the closed position;
Figures 53 (A) and 53 (B) are sections similar to Figures 52 (A) and 52 (B), but illustrating the condition in which the cover is held in an open position;
Figure 54 is a partial perspective view of the container body used in the eighth embodiment of the container structure;
Figure 55 is a longitudinal section of a modification of the eighth embodiment of the container structure of Figures 50 and 51;
Figure 56 is an enlarged sectional view of the hinge mechanism employed in the embodiment of Figure 55; and
FIG. 57 is a partial perspective view of the container body used in the embodiment of FIG. 55.

 Referring now to the drawings, in particular to Figures 1 to 4, the first embodiment of a container structure according to the present invention will be described. It should be noted that, in the illustrated embodiment, the container is suitable for application in a case for storing cosmetics and the like. However, it should be noted that the application of the described embodiment of the container is not limited to a cosmetic case and can be any container requiring or wishing to be opened by elastic projection.

 It should be noted that, throughout the description, the parts having identical or practically identical constructions and functions are designated by the same references.

 As shown in Figure 1, a container 10 generally includes a container body 12 and a cover 14 for operatively closing the opening of the container body. The cover 14 is formed separately from the container body 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the container 10 has a substantially rectangular configuration, seen in plan. Thus, the container body 12 and the cover 14 have essentially respective configurations with the contours of the side edges mating so as to be able to form a level side surface once assembled.

 As shown in FIG. 1, the container body 12 forms a cavity 16 to receive a content, for example a cosmetic product or the like. Side walls 18 extending substantially perpendicular to the lower surface of the cavity 16 form an upper contact surface 18a matching a lower contact surface 14a of the cover 14 with a close fit therebetween. On the other hand, at the central main portion of the cover 14, a cavity 20 is formed to receive a rigidly fixed housing mirror 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the depth of the cavity 20 is selected at the depth of the mirror 22 so that the surface of the mirror is level with the general internal surface of the cover 14.

The container 10 has a locking mechanism 24 at the front end (left side end in FIG. 1) so as to maintain the cover 14 in the closed position relative to the container body 12. The locking mechanism comprises a projection of snap 26 extending forward from the container body 12, a snap hook 28 extending from the inner surface of the cover 14 to the position adjacent to the front end and corresponding to the position of the projection d 'snap 26, and an unlocking button 30 to remove the engagement by snap between the snap projection 26 and the snap hook 28. The snap hook 28 is provided with a cam face 32. release 30 has a substantially L-shaped configuration with a leg portion extending vertically which has a pointed end matching the cam face 32 of the snap hook in the longitudinal section and a configuration substantially in
U, seen in plan as shown in FIG. 2. In addition, the joining surfaces of the latching projection 26 and the latching hook 28, in which the latching engagement is established, are conical so that the hook snap 28 can be elastically deformed to disengage from the snap projection 26 when an upward force is exerted on it. In the illustrated construction, when the release button 30 is depressed, the tab extending vertically from the release button contacts the cam face 32 of the latch hook 28 to exert the upward force. Thus, an elastic deformation is caused on the latching hook 28 to remove the locking engagement with the latching projection 26.

 On the other hand, the container 10 is provided with an articulation mechanism 34 at the rear end to allow movement of the cover 14 between the open position and the closed position. The articulation mechanism 34 comprises first extensions 36 extending backwards from the rear end of the main portion of the container body 12, and a second extension 38 extending downwards from the rear end of the main portion of the cover 14, and a pair of articulation rods 40.

 The first extensions 36 are extended from the two transverse sides of the container body so as to form a recess 42 between. The second extension 38 is formed integrally with the cover 14 and extended rearward and downward from the central portion transversely of the rear end of the cover 14. The second extension 38 is received in 11 recess 42 with an overlap with the first extensions 36. The articulation rods 40 extend between the first extensions 36 and the second extension 38 respectively in rod receiving openings 44 formed in the respective extensions 36 and 38.

 As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the rod receiving openings 44 are positioned in the respective first and second extensions 36 and 38 so that they can be aligned on a common hinge pin while the cover 14 is held in the position opened. At this position, the rods 40 extending between the extensions are kept straight and aligned with the common axis of articulation. The articulation rods 40 are here made of a metallic material having a certain degree of elastic deformability, such as carbon steel, spring steel or the like.

 At the two transverse ends, the second extension 38 is provided with enlarged holes 46. Each of the enlarged holes 46 has a substantially frustoconical configuration for a reduction in diameter towards the end of the internal side communicating with the rod receiving opening 44. The hole enlarged frustoconical 46 allows elastic deformation of the articulation rod 40 within it.

 A projection 48 projects from the upper rear edge of the container body 12 towards the rear. The projection 48 is intended to come into contact with the front end of the second extension 38 during the movement of the cover 14 from the open position to the closed position.

By contacting the projection 48, the second extension 38 as well as the major part of the cover 14 is moved towards the rear with an offset of the rod receiving opening 44 proper to the common articulation axis of a magnitude f. As a result, the articulation rods 40 are deformed with an accumulation of stress which acts as an actuating force to resiliently project the cover over a small magnitude when the locking engagement of the locking mechanism 24 is removed.

The position of the cover moved backwards and the deformed condition of the articulation rods appear in FIGS. 1 and 2. It should be noted that the magnitude of the projection g of the projection 48 is determined so that the magnitude of the elastic deformation is caused on the articulation rod 40 in a range of elastic deformation and that the rear displacement stroke can correspond substantially to the displacement stroke of the latching hook 38 to establish the locking engagement. Also, it appears that the projection 48 is at a higher position than the position of the articulation rods 40, that is to say the pivot center of the cover 14.

 The projection 48 acting as described above forms a means for constraining the articulation rods 40 and therefore for accumulating an elastic reaction actuating force.

 Although in the illustrated embodiment the projection 48 is positioned substantially at the transverse center, the projection is not limited to this specific position but can be in any suitable position provided that it can contact the second extension 38 of the mechanism articulation 34 to cause a rearward movement of the cover 14 with a shift of its own rod receiving openings 44 of magnitude f. For example, it is possible to have a pair of projections in positions in the vicinity of two transverse ends of the recess 42. It is also possible that the projection 48 extends substantially over the entire transverse length of the recess 42.

 In the first embodiment of the container structure for a cosmetic case constructed as described above, the cover 14 is connected to the container body 12 to pivot via the articulation mechanism 34, in which a pair of articulation rods 40 extends over the first and second extensions 36 and 38, for movement between the open position and the closed position. As it appears clearly in FIGS. 1 and 2, while the cover 14 is kept in the closed position, the cover 14 is pressed backwards by means of the projection 48 which causes an elastic deformation of the articulation rods 40 When the cover 14 is closed, the snap hook 28 is brought into engagement with the snap projection 26 by moving the back cover 14 to establish a lock engagement. Thus, the cover 14 can be maintained in the closed position against the elastic force accumulated in the articulation rods 40. While the cover 14 is locked in the closed position, the articulation rods are therefore maintained in the stress condition with maintenance of the elastic reaction force for a return to the upright position. This elastic reaction force serves as an actuating force to actuate the cover 14 towards the open position over a small given magnitude.

 When the locking engagement of the locking mechanism 24 is removed by depressing the unlocking button 30, the elastic reaction force accumulated in the articulation rods 40 becomes active as an actuating force to cause a forward movement of the cover 14. While the cover 14 is moved forward, the second extension 38 is kept in contact with the projection 48. Thus, the cover 14 pivots along the line of contact between the second extension 38 and the projection 48 of a magnitude corresponding to the magnitude of deformation f of the articulation rods 40 to restore the initial straight configuration. Consequently, when the unlocking button 30 is pressed to open the cover 14, the cover 14 is elastically projected of a small magnitude to facilitate subsequent manual opening.

 In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating force to automatically open the cover 14 of a given magnitude in response to the depressing of the unlocking button 30, is produced by bringing the projection projecting backwards into contact 48 from the container body 12 with the second extension 38 of the lid 14 to cause the lid to move backwards while maintaining close contact with the side walls 18 of the container body, a space between the lid and the container body never formed in the closed position of the cover. Thus, the ingress of dust, dirt, moisture or the like can be satisfactorily prevented. In addition, the cover is only subjected to a tensile force of small magnitude and never to a significant stress which could cause deformation. Therefore, the durability of the container can be improved.

 Furthermore, since the projection 48 in the illustrated embodiment is positioned closer to the articulation mechanism 34 than the projection in the prior art, the space between the articulation rods 40 and the projection 48 can be decreases. This allows the pivoting magnitude of the cover 14 relative to the projection magnitude of the projection to be greater than in the prior art. Furthermore, since the projection 48 in the illustrated embodiment is projected horizontally in the rear direction, it never limits the decrease in thickness, that is to say the vertical size, of the container. This is particularly advantageous in the application of the container as a cosmetic box because it is then easier to transport.

 Figures 5 and 6 illustrate a modification of the first previous embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention. The illustrated modification differs from the first previous embodiment in that a projection 48a as a means for causing the rearward movement of the cover 14 is arranged on the cover 14 rather than at the rear end of the container body 12 as in the previous embodiment.

As shown, even in this modification, the projection 48a is in a position offset upwards relative to the axis of articulation of the articulation mechanism 34.

 Consequently, even in this embodiment, when the cover 14 pivots in the closed position, the cover is moved rearward under the effect of the projection 48a projecting towards the rear end of the container body 12 and maintained in contact with it. This results in elastic deformation of the articulation rods 40 with an accumulation of the elastic reaction force. It appears that even in this case, the enlarged holes 46 are used to allow elastic deformation of the articulation rods 40.

 When the locking engagement of the locking mechanism such as that illustrated in the previous embodiment is removed to release the cover 14 from any stress, the elastic reaction force of the articulation rods acts as an actuating force acts on the cover 14 to move it forward. During its forward stroke, the cover 14 pivots along the line of contact between the projection 48a and the rear end surface of the container body 12 towards the open position. Thus, even with the illustrated construction, an effect substantially equivalent to that in the previous embodiment can be obtained.

 Figures 7 and 8 respectively illustrate other modifications of the first previous embodiment of the container structure. The illustrated embodiments differ from the previous embodiments with respect to the construction of the enlarged holes to allow the deformation of the articulation rods 40. Thus, in the modification of FIG. 7, the enlarged holes 46a are formed in the first extensions 36 (only one being shown) rather than in the second extension 38.

In this case, the enlarged hole 46a has a substantially cylindrical configuration so as to have an equal diameter over its entire length. On the other hand, in the modification of Figure 8, the enlarged holes 46b are formed in both the first and second extensions 36 and 38. As above, even in this case, the enlarged hole 46b has a substantially configuration cylindrical to have an equal diameter over its entire length.

 The two modifications clearly make it possible to obtain an effect equivalent to that of the preceding embodiments.

 Figures 9 and 10 illustrate the second embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention. As best represented in FIG. 9, the illustrated embodiment is suitable for a container, for example a cosmetic case, comprising an auxiliary internal cover 50 between the container body 12 and the cover 14. In the illustrated construction, the internal cover 50 comprises a pair of third extensions 52 extending backwards which are arranged between the first and second extensions 36 and 38 so that they can be pivotally connected to the first extensions 36 of the container body coaxially with the second extension 38, by means of articulation rods 40. In addition, the internal cover 50 is provided with a through opening 54, in which the latching hook 28 of the cover 14 S t extends for locking engagement with the latching projection. 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the mirror 22 of the cosmetic case is rigidly mounted on the internal cover 50.

 As better represented in FIG. 10, in the illustrated embodiment, the first and second extensions 36 and 38 are only provided with rod-receiving openings 44 and no enlarged hole is formed within them.

On the other hand, in the third extensions 52 are formed through holes 46c of larger diameter extending transversely which serve as elements equivalent to the enlarged holes in the previous embodiment in that they allow elastic deformation of the rods of articulation 40 within them.

 It is clear that the illustrated construction of the second embodiment can produce and accumulate the elastic reaction force by deformation of the articulation rods 40 by the rearward movement of the cover 14 while the latter is maintained in the closed position. .

Consequently, when the locking engagement of the locking mechanism 24 is removed, the cover 14 can be thrown elastically by the effect of the elastic reaction force of the articulation rods 40.

 It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that although the illustrated embodiment has the projection 48 protruding rearward at the center of the rear end of the container body 12, it is possible to have a pair of equivalent projections in positions bordering the two transverse ends of the second extension 38. It is also possible to arrange the projections 48a so that they project forward from the second extension 38, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

 Figures 11 and 12 illustrate modifications of the second previous embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention. These modifications differ from the previous embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10 as regards the construction of the enlarged holes to allow the elastic deformation of the articulation rods 40.

 In the modification illustrated in FIG. 11, the substantially frustoconical enlarged holes 46d (only one being shown) are formed on the two transverse sides of the second extension 38. In this case, the openings formed in the third extensions 52 have a diameter substantially identical to that of the articulation rods 40.

In this case, the openings of the third extensions 52 are constantly kept aligned with the rod receiving openings 44 of the first extensions 36.

 With this construction, substantially the same effect as in the previous embodiment can be obtained.

 On the other hand, in the modification illustrated in FIG. 12, the frustoconical holes 46e (only one being shown) are formed in the third extensions 52 to allow the elastic deformation of the articulation rods 40. The frustoconical holes 46e end at midway through the transverse length of the third extension. In communication with the smallest internal diametral section of the frustoconical hole 46e is provided an opening having an internal diameter substantially equal to the external diameter to open at the end corresponding to the transverse end of the second extension 38. L the opening is constantly aligned with the rod receiving opening 44 of the second extension 38. Furthermore, in this modification, the projections 48 project at the positions corresponding respectively to the transverse positions of the third extensions 52. Consequently, in the closed position of the cover 14 and the internal cover 50, the internal cover and the cover 14 are moved rearward to cause deformation of the articulation rods 40 in order to create the elastic reaction force.

 With this construction, when the locking engagement is removed, the elastic force of the articulation rods 40 is exerted both on the internal cover 50 and the cover 14 to project them elastically, simultaneously.

 Figures 13 and 14 illustrate another modification of the second embodiment of the container structure. The modification illustrated has a construction similar to the previous embodiment of FIG. 11 as regards the articulation structure with the exception of the configuration of the enlarged hole 46f. Indeed, rather than using the enlarged frustoconical hole as in the embodiment of FIG. 11, the illustrated embodiment uses the enlarged hole 46f of generally cylindrical configuration. Furthermore, the modification illustrated differs from the previous embodiment as regards the construction of the locking mechanism 24.

 It should be noted that although the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12 use the enlarged frustoconical holes 46d and 46e, it is of course possible to provide the enlarged hole with any other configuration provided that it allows elastic deformation of the articulation rod 40 and therefore the rearward offset of the cover 14 and / or the internal cover 50 relative to the container body.

I1 appears in Figure 13 that the locking mechanism comprises the latching hook 28 extending from the lower surface of the cover 14, as in the previous embodiments. In contrast, a push piece 60 is used in the illustrated embodiment, in place of the push button of the previous embodiment, received within a cavity 61 receiving the push piece 61 formed by a wall of front end 12a and a partition 12b of the container body 12. The pushing piece 60 has a configuration substantially in the form of
T overturned comprising a sliding section 62 disposed horizontally on the lower surface 61a of the cavity 61 receiving the push piece for sliding, and a hooking section 63 extending vertically from the sliding section 62. comprises an attachment head 64 which can be engaged with the latching hook 28.

 The sliding section 62 of the pushing piece 60 has a front end portion 65 extending in a through opening 66 formed in the front wall 12a of the container body 12 to allow access from the outside. The sliding section 62 also includes a rear end portion 67 received in a recess 68 formed in the partition 12b. A biasing spring 69 can be disposed in the recess 68 for constant outward biasing in order to elastically maintain the locking engagement between the latching hook 28 and the latching head 64 of the latching section 63. In the locked condition of the locking mechanism 24, the front end portion 65 of the pushing piece 60 extends slightly outward from the front wall 12a of the container body 12 to facilitate access from the outside.

 With the illustrated construction, when the pushing piece 60 is pushed in via the front end portion 65 to remove the locking engagement between the latching hook 28 and the latching head 64, the cover 14 becomes free from any constraint. Thus, the elastic reaction force of the articulation rod 40 serves to pivot the cover towards the open position in substantially the same manner as that described in the previous embodiment.

 Figures 15 to 17 illustrate yet another modification of the second embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention. The illustrated embodiment uses the enlarged cylindrical holes 46g and 46h at the third extensions 52 and at the second extension 38. As shown in FIGS. 15 to 17, the enlarged hole 46g is formed on the side of the third extension near the first extension 36. Thus, the articulation rod 40 is elastically deformed into two spaced apart portions. In addition, the illustrated embodiment comprises an auxiliary projection 70 in addition to the projections 48 extending from the container body 12. The auxiliary projection 70 extends rearward from the rear end of the internal cover 50.

 In the illustrated construction, the projections 48 play substantially the role described in the previous embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12 to cause a rearward offset of the intermediate cover 50 by driving in the third extensions 52 and therefore exerting a stress on the articulation rod 40 to deform it elastically in the enlarged hole 46g in order to accumulate the elastic actuation force of the reaction to elastically project the intermediate cover 50 when the locking engagement is removed from the locking mechanism 24.

 On the other hand, the auxiliary projection 70 is adapted to contact the second extension 38 to urge it backwards when the cover 14 is closed.

Thus, the cover 14 is further offset backwards relative to the internal cover 50 with a rearward offset of the second extension 38 of the third extensions 52. Consequently, the articulation rods 40 are further deformed in the enlarged holes 46h to further accumulate the elastic reaction force.

 With the illustrated construction, the cover 14 and the internal cover 50 can be projected elastically, simultaneously. Thus, when the locking engagement of the locking mechanism 24 is removed, the internal cover 50 is biased by the elastic force accumulated in the articulation rods 40 for movement forward with pivoting along the line of contact. between the projections 48 and the third extensions 52. At the same time, the cover 14 is also stressed by the elastic force of the articulation rod 40 for a movement towards the front with pivoting along the line of contact between the projection 70 and the second extension 38.

 It should be noted that although the illustrated embodiment employs the auxiliary projection 70 projecting from the rear end of the internal cover 50, it is possible to arrange this projection at the second extension 38 in the same manner as that illustrated in the figures 5 and 6.

 Figures 18 to 21 illustrate the third embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention. It appears that the illustrated embodiment is similar to the first embodiment in FIGS. 1 to 4. The illustrated embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the rod-receiving openings 44a and the enlarged holes 46i formed in both transverse ends of the second extension 38 are oblique relative to a pivot axis C of the cover 14. The positions and angles of the oblique rod receiving openings 44a in the first and second extensions 36 and 38 are determined so that the axes of each pair rod receiving openings 44a of the first and second extensions 36 and 38 are aligned in the open position of the cover 14. In addition, the oblique angles of the enlarged holes 46i are equal to the associated rod receiving openings 44a so that their axis is aligned with the aligned axes of the rod receiving openings 44a in the open position of the cover 14.

 Even with the illustrated construction, the cover 14 can be moved backwards during the pivoting from the open position to the closed position by the effect of the projection 48. Consequently, in the closed position of the cover 14, the rods d The joint 40 is deformed with an accumulation of the elastic reaction force to resiliently project the cover when the locking engagement in the locking mechanism 24 is removed.

 With the illustrated embodiment, substantially the same effect as in the first previous embodiment can be obtained. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, since the rod receiving openings 44a and the enlarged holes 46i are oblique relative to the pivot axis C of the articulation mechanism 34 to pivot the cover 14, the magnitude of deformation of the articulation rods 44 to obtain the elastic reaction force necessary to project the cover elastically may be smaller than in the previous embodiment.

 Figures 22 to 26 illustrate the fourth embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention. The articulation mechanism 24 in the illustrated embodiment is substantially the same as in the first embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2. The illustrated embodiment includes an elastically displaceable projection 80. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the central portion of the rear side wall 18 is provided with a recess 81. At the rear end of the recess 81 or in the vicinity of this rear end, a vertical and elastically deformable tab 82 extends vertically from its base. The tab 82 is disposed far from the internal periphery of the recess 81 to leave a space 83 between them The tab 82 is flexible to be elastically deformed with an accumulation of the elastic restoring force in response to the external force exerted towards the inside on the projection 80. The width of the space 83 between the joining surfaces of the tab 82 and the internal peripheral wall of the recess 81 in the longitudinal direction is selected to project the projection 80 from the general rear end plane of the container body 12 even when the tab 82 is deformed to retract the projection towards the interior of the recess 81.

 With the construction illustrated, when the cover 14 pivots from the open position to the closed position, the projection acts on the second extension 38 to push the latter backwards so as to move the cover backwards, substantially from the same manner as in the previous embodiments. In this way, the articulation rods 40 are deformed with an accumulation of the elastic reaction force. At the same time, the depression, due to the reaction force, of the second extension 38 via the projection 80 is exerted on the tab 82 supporting the projection 80 to cause an elastic deformation towards the interior thereof. Thus, the tab 82 is deformed inward with the accumulation of the elastic reaction force and with the retraction of the projection 80 by the corresponding magnitude. As described above, since the projection 80 is kept in projection from the general rear end surface of the container body 12 even in the deformed position of the tab 82, it remains effective in retaining the elastic reaction force of the articulation rods 40 in order to project the cover 14 elastically during unlocking. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the elastic reaction force accumulated in the tab 82 reinforces the elastic projection action to lift or project the cover 14 automatically.

 With the foregoing construction, when the locking engagement between the latching hook 28 and the latching head 64 is removed by depressing the push piece 62, the cover 14 can be elastically thrown by pivoting with the composite force of the elastic force of the articulation rods 40 and the elastic force of the tab 82.

 FIGS. 26 to 28 illustrate a modification of the previous fourth embodiment of the container according to the present invention. In the illustrated modification, a decorative receptacle 85 is disposed in the cavity 16 of the container body 12. The decorative receptacle 85 comprises a flange 86 extending horizontally from the upper edge of the body of the receptacle. The flange 86 is mounted on the upper end surface of the side walls 18 to cover them. The projection 80 projects from the rear end of the collar 86, towards the rear. The projection 80 is carried by a pair of elastically deformable support pieces 87 which extend transversely and horizontally. The support pieces 87 are formed by a slot 88 formed in the rear face of the flange 86. The support pieces 87 are elastically deformable to retract the projection 80 inwards with accumulation of elastic reaction force.

 Even with the illustrated construction, substantially the same effect as in the previous embodiment of Figures 22 to 25 can be obtained.

 Figures 30 to 34 illustrate the fifth embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, a cylindrical bore 90 is formed on one side of the second extension 38. The diameter of the cylindrical bore 90 is much larger than that of the articulation rod 40.

Thus, the articulation rod 40 on the face corresponding to the cylindrical bore 90 is received with clearance in the cylindrical bore at its internal end. The second extension 38 also has an oblique bore 91 at the other end. The oblique bore 91 has an axis extending obliquely to the pivot axis C extending through the central axes of the rod receiving opening 44 formed in the first extensions 36. On the other hand, an opening rod receiver 44a formed in the second extension 38 in communication with the oblique bore 91 extends substantially in alignment with the oblique bore and is therefore oblique relative to the pivot axis C.

In the illustrated embodiment, the projection 48 to cause a rearward offset of the cover 14 in the closed position is arranged in a transverse position near the transverse end of the second extension 38 where the cylindrical bore 90 is form.

 In the closed position, the second extension 38 is moved rearward by the effect of the projection 48 in substantially the same manner as in the previous embodiment. At that time, since the diameter of the cylindrical bore 90 is much larger than that of the articulation rod 40 which is associated with it, the associated articulation rod is simply shifted forward relative to the cylindrical bore 90 to allow the rearward movement of the second extension 38 with the cover 14 without causing accumulated deformation of elastic reaction force. On the other hand, the articulation rod 40 on the opposite side and extending in the oblique bore 91 restricts movement relative to the second extension since it engages with the rod receiving openings 44 and 44a at both extremities. Consequently, by the rearward movement of the second extension, the articulation rod 40 on the other side is subjected to a stress to accumulate the elastic reaction force which serves as a force to project the cover 14 elastically during the unlocking the locking mechanism 24.

 When the locking mechanism 24 is actuated to remove the locking engagement, the elastic reaction force as an actuating force for the elastic projection function of the articulation rod 40 on the other side acts on the second extension 38 to drive it with the cover 14 forward. This forward biasing force of the articulation rod 40 is transformed into a pivoting force to resiliently project the cover 14 along the interface line between the projection 48 and the second extension 38.

 In the illustrated embodiment, substantially the same function of elastic projection of the cover as in the previous embodiments can be obtained. In addition, it appears that the point where the elastic reaction force of the articulation rod 40 is exerted on the second extension to drive the latter forward is distant from the interface line between the projection 48 and the second extension 38, much more than in the previous embodiments. This distance serves as a lever to amplify the actuating force to cause the pivoting of the second extension 38 with the cover 14.

Therefore, even with a relatively small deformation of the articulation rod which produces a smaller elastic reaction force, a sufficient magnitude of the elastic projection action can be obtained.

 Figures 35 and 36 illustrate a simple modification of the previous fifth embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated modification differs from the embodiment of FIGS. 30 to 34 in that the projection 48 is arranged on the second extension 38 rather than at the rear end of the container body 12.

 It appears clearly, with the illustrated construction, that an effect substantially identical to that of the previous embodiment of FIGS. 30 to 34 can be obtained.

 Figure 37 illustrates another modification of the previous fifth embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated modification, the articulation rod 40a is formed integrally with the first extension 36 and extends transversely from the internal surface. This modification also makes it possible to obtain the same effect as in the previous embodiments of FIGS. 30 to 36.

 Figures 38 to 41 illustrate the sixth embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention. The illustrated embodiment is practically similar to the third embodiment of Figures 18 to 21. The illustrated embodiment differs from the third embodiment in that the rod receiving openings 44 extending in the first extensions 36 are oriented substantially in the transverse direction along the pivot axis C. On the other hand, the rod receiving openings 44a and the enlarged holes 46i are formed to extend obliquely with respect to the pivot axis C. Consequently, in the initial condition and even without any constraint, the articulation rods 40 are maintained in the angular configuration.

 The illustrated embodiment provides substantially the same functions as in the previous embodiment. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, given that the internal end portion of the articulation rod 40 engaging with the rod receiving opening 44a of the second extension has its axis of rotation oblique with respect to the axis of its outer end portion engaging with the rod receiving opening 44 of the first extension, the inner end portion hardly causes relative angular displacement relative to the second extension. Thus, the relative rotation is caused only at the outer end portion. Consequently, the inner end portion of the articulation rod 40 can be rigidly fixed to the rod receiving opening 44a to prevent the rod. In addition, as described above, since the relative angular displacement is caused only between the rod receiving opening 44 and the external end portion of the articulation rod 40, it becomes easier to adjust the resistance to rotation. This facilitates the adjustment of the opening and closing force of the cover 14.

 It should be noted that although the illustrated embodiment uses the rod receiving openings 44a and the enlarged holes forming an angle outward towards the inner end> the direction of the angle is not limited to the direction illustrated but can be any suitable direction.

 Figure 42 illustrates a modification of the previous sixth embodiment of the present invention. In this modification, the hinge rod receiving opening 44b extending in alignment with the pivot axis is formed in the second extension 38. On the other hand, the hinge rod receiving opening 44a is extending obliquely to the pivot axis is formed in the first extensions 36.

 It appears that the illustrated construction allows to obtain substantially the same effect as in the previous embodiment of Figures 38 to 41. In addition, even in the sixth embodiment as described above, the projection 48 can be placed on the second extension 38, as shown in FIG. 43.

 Figures 44 and 45 illustrate the seventh embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention. In this embodiment, the upper surface 36a of the first extensions 36 practically level with the upper surface 18a of the side wall 18 of the container body 12 is ascending towards the rear end from the point P. The transverse lateral edge portions of the cover 14 are opposed to the ascending upper surface 36a with the formation of a substantially triangular space E between them in the closed position of the cover 14.

 As best shown in Figures 46 (A) and 46 (B), the rod receiving openings 100 formed in the first extensions 36 to receive the exit ends of the articulation rods 40 are formed to be placed in vertically offset positions vertical positions of the rod receiving openings 101 formed at the two transverse ends of the second extension 38 to receive the internal ends of the articulation rods, in the closed position of the cover 14. In practice, the rod receiving openings 101 of the second extension 38 are positioned higher than the rod receptor openings 100 of the first extensions 36. As in the previous embodiments, the vertical offset between the rod receptor openings 100 and 101 exerts a stress on the articulation rods 40 so that the elastic reaction force can be accumulated in the articulated rods lation 40.

 The elastic reaction force serves to pull the second extension 38 with the cover 14 downwards when unlocking the locking mechanism 24. Consequently, the second extension 38 with the cover 14 moves downwards. During this movement, given the presence of the ascending upper surface 36a of the first extensions 36, the downward movement is transformed into a pivoting movement according to the P-pivot. Thus, the cover 14 can pivot in the direction of the opening for be projected elastically, as shown in Figures 47 (A) and 47 (B).

 With the illustrated embodiment, the stress can be exerted on the articulation rod 40 to accumulate the elastic actuating force for the elastic projection without an additional element being necessary, for example the projections required in the embodiment previous.

 Figures 48 (A) and 48 (B) illustrate a modification of the previous seventh embodiment of the container structure. The illustrated embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that the rod receiving openings 100 and 101 are formed obliquely with respect to the pivot axis of the cover 14. As in the previous embodiment, the vertical positions rod receiving openings 101 are higher than those of the rod receiving openings 100 in the closed position of the cover 14.

 Therefore, the illustrated embodiment can achieve substantially the same elastic projection function as the previous embodiment. In addition, since the rods 40 are extended obliquely relative to the pivot axis of the cover, the magnitude of deformation of the articulation rods 40 required to obtain the desired magnitude of pivoting of the cover 14 in the projection action elastic can be reduced.

 Figures 49 (A) and 49 (B) illustrate another modification of the seventh embodiment of the present invention. In this modification, the rod receiving openings 100 in the first extensions 36 extend substantially in alignment with the pivot axis of the cover 14. On the other hand, the rod receiving openings 101 are formed obliquely with respect to the pivot axis.

 With this construction, substantially the same effect as in the previous embodiment of Figures 48 (A) and 48 (B) can be obtained. In addition, the effect described in relation to the embodiment of Figures 38 and 39 can be obtained.

 Figures 50 and 51 illustrate the eighth embodiment of the container structure according to the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, a projection 110 to serve as a pivot for the elastic projection action of the cover 14 is provided. On the other hand, as in the embodiment of FIGS. 44 to 49, the rod receiving openings 100 of the first extensions 36 and the rod receiving openings 101 of the second extension 38 are positioned so as to be aligned in the open position of the cover 14 and vertically offset by a given magnitude f to cause deformation of the articulation rods 40 in order to produce the elastic reaction force for the action of elastic projection, in the closed position of the cover 14. Conversely of the previous embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 43, the projection 110 in the illustrated embodiment exerts a downward force to cause a vertical offset between the first and second extensions 36 and 38 and so as to cause deformation of the articulation rods 40. On the other hand, to accommodate the projection 110 and maintain a close fit between the lower surface 14a of the cover 1 4 and the upper surface of the side walls 18 of the container body 12, a longitudinally extending slot 111 is formed in the rear side wall while retaining a relatively thin and flexible part 112. The flexible part 112 is arranged transversely in the corresponding position in the position of the projection 110 and designed to be elastically deformed by the downward force exerted via the projection 110 to accommodate the entire height of the projection in order to make a close fit between the lower surface 14a of the cover and the upper surface 18a of the side wall 18 of the container body.

 When the cover 14 pivots from the open position to the closed position, the projection 110 comes into contact with the flexible part 112 and causes an elastic deformation of the latter with an accumulation of elastic restoring force which contributes to the action of projection elastic cover. In the closed position, the rod receiving openings 101 of the second extension 38 are positioned higher than the rod receiving openings 100 of the first extensions 36, as best shown in Figures 52 (A) and 52 (B). By the vertical offset of the rod receiving openings 100 and 101, the articulation rods 40 are elastically deformed within the enlarged holes 46 with accumulation of the elastic reaction force.

 When the locking mechanism 24 is unlocked by actuation of the push button 30, the elastic return force of the articulation rods 40 acts on the second extension to pull it upwards with the cover 14. Simultaneously, the elastic return force of the flexible piece 112 acts on the projection 110 to push it upwards. Consequently, the pivoting movement towards the open position is caused in the cover 14 to resiliently project the cover 14 of a given magnitude, as shown in Figures 53 (A) and 53 (B).

 Although the illustrated embodiment uses the slot 111 extending across the width of the side wall, it is possible to terminate the slot 111 in the intermediate position in the width direction and to provide a vertical slot 116 to form the flexible part. This construction can be particularly advantageous in the case where the contents of the container, for example a cosmetic product, fear dirt, dust or humidity.

 Figures 55 to 57 illustrate a modification of the above eighth embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a receptacle or decorative tray 113 is received within the cavity 16 of the container body 12. The decorative receptacle 113 has a flange 114 extending horizontally outward from the upper edge of the receptacle. The flange 114 is adapted to be adjusted on the upper surface 18a of the side wall 18 of the container body 12. The flange 114 is provided with a tongue 115 which is elastically deformable with cutouts 116 formed on the two transverse sides of the tongue. The elastically deformable tongue 115 tends to project from the general plane of the upper surface of the flange 114, as shown in FIGS. 56 and 57.

 The elastically deformable tongue 115 has substantially the function corresponding to that of the projection 110 and of the flexible part 112 in the previous embodiment of FIGS. 50 to 53.

 Consequently, in the closed position of the cover 14, the elastically deformable tongue 115 is elastically deformed as shown in FIG. 55, with accumulation of the elastic restoring force. It appears that in this position the receiving openings of the articulation rod in the first and second extensions 36 and 38 are vertically offset as in the previous embodiment.

 When unlocking the locking mechanism 24, the tongue 115 exerts the elastic restoring force on the joining surface of the cover 14 to cause a slight upward movement of the cover 14. Simultaneously, the tongue 115 serves as a pivot for the pivoting movement of the cover 14 by the elastic actuating force exerted by the articulation rods 40.

 It is apparent from the above that the container structure according to the present invention provides the function of elastic projection during use without affecting the seal of the container in order to maintain close contact between the joining surfaces of the container body. and the cover. In addition, since the present invention does not exert a substantial force which constrains the cover per se, no deformation can be caused in the cover, which gives a long life to the container. Furthermore, according to the present invention, since an additional height for accommodating the projection intended to ensure the elastic projection function is not necessary, the thickness of the container is reduced.

 With the constructions illustrated, the container according to the present invention is particularly suitable for use as a cosmetic case. However, the construction illustrated here can also be applied to other containers which require an elastic projection of the cover on demand.

 Although the present invention has been illustrated and described in relation to a specific embodiment, it will appear to those skilled in the art that the foregoing transformations, omissions and additions as well as others can be made, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the present invention is not understood as being limited to the specific embodiment set out above but as being able to include all the possible embodiments and their equivalents which can be implemented with respect to the characteristics presented in the appended claims.

Claims (34)

1. Container (10) comprising  a container body (12) forming a cavity (16) open on one side within it by a side wall (18) extending along the periphery of said cavity, the side wall having a first surface (18a) at its pointed end;  a cover (14) for operatively closing said opening of said cavity (16) of said container body (12), said cover (14) being movable between an open position exposing said cavity through the opening for access from the outside and a closed position for closing said opening, said cover (14) having a second surface (14a) fitted closely to said first surface (18a) of said container body (12) in the closed position of the cover;  a hinge mechanism (34) disposed at one end of the container body (12) for pivotally connecting said cover thereto, said hinge mechanism comprising at least one elastically deformable hinge rod (40) producing a elastic reaction force;  a locking mechanism (24) for locking said cover (14) in the closed position;  first means, associated with said articulation mechanism (34), for causing a deformation of said articulation rod (40) while said cover (14) is held in the closed position to accumulate the elastic reaction force, retaining close and sealed contact between said first (18a) and second surface (14a); and  second means, associated with said articulation mechanism (34) and serving to unlock said locking mechanism (24), for transforming said elastic reaction force of said articulation rod (40) into a pivoting force for pivoting said cover (14) in an opening direction. 2. Container according to claim 1, wherein said articulation mechanism (34) comprises a pair of extensions (36) extending from the two transverse ends of said container body (12) and said cover (14) and at at least a second extension (38) extending from said container body (12) and said cover (14), said respective extensions being connected via said elastically deformable articulation rod (40) and said first means for shifting the 'one of said first and second extensions (36, 38) relative to the other to cause deformation of said articulation rod (40) disposed between. 3. Container according to claim 2> wherein said first means causes a relative horizontal displacement between said first and second extensions (36, 38) parallel to a plane, on which a close and sealed contact between said first (18a) and second ( 14a) surfaces is established. 4. Container according to claim 3, wherein said first means comprises a projection (48) projecting from said container body (12) and one of said first and second extensions (36, 38) extending from said cover ( 14) and positioned between, said projection contacting said container body (12) and one of said first and second extensions (36, 38) in the closed position of said cover (14) to cause a relative horizontal offset between. 5. Container according to claim 4, in which said said second means is established at a line of contact between said projection and said container body (12) and one of said first and second extensions (36> 38), said line of contact serving as a pivot for the pivoting movement of said cover (14) in the opening direction. 6. Container according to claim 2> wherein each of said articulation rods (40) has an internal end engaging with a first rod receiving opening (44) formed in said second extension (38) and an external end s' engaging with said second rod receiving opening (44) formed in said first extension (36), said first and second rod receiving openings being aligned with each other in the open position of said cover (14). 7. The container of claim 6, wherein at least one of said first and second extensions (36, 38) forms an enlarged hole (46) communicating with one of said first and second rod receiving openings (44) to allow elastic deformation of said articulation rod in the closed position of said cover. 8. The container of claim 7, wherein said enlarged hole (46) has a frustoconical configuration reducing the diameter to the position communicating with one of said first and second rod receiving openings (44). 9. The container of claim 6, wherein at least one of said first and second rod receiving openings (44) is oblique relative to a pivot axis of said hinge mechanism.  10 A container according to claim 5, wherein said first and second means are arranged in a position of transverse offset to one side relative to the transverse center, and said first and second means serving exclusively to cause deformation of one of said articulation rods (40) which is positioned on the other side relative to the transverse center. 11. Container according to claim 5, further comprising an internal cover (50) disposed between said cover (14) and said container body (12), said internal cover (50) comprising a pair of third extensions (52) forming a hinge mechanism with said first and second extensions (36, 38) of said cover (14) and said container body (12). 12. Container according to claim 2, further comprising an internal cover (50) disposed between said cover (14) and said container body (12), comprising a pair of third extensions (52), said first means comprising a projection is projecting from said container body and one of said first, second and third extensions (36, 38, 52) extending from said cover (14) or said internal cover (50) and being positioned between, said projection being in contact with said container body and one of said first, second and third extensions in the closed position of said cover (14) to cause relative horizontal offset therebetween. 13. Container according to claim 5, in which said projection is supported by means of an elastically deformable element for an elastic displacement from an initial position and a retracted position, said elastically deformable element being deformed from its initial position, said projection being placed at said retracted position in the closed position of said cover. 14. The container of claim 2, wherein said first means causes a relative vertical offset between said first and second extensions (36, 38) to cause deformation of said articulation rod (40) to produce the elastic reaction force. 15. The container of claim 14, wherein said second means comprises a projection projecting from said container body and one of said first and second extensions extending from said cover and positioned between said projection coming into contact with said body container and one of said first and second extensions for establishing a contact line between said projection and said container body and one of said first and second extensions, said contact line serving as a pivot for the pivoting movement of said cover in the direction opening hours. 16. Container according to claim 15, further comprising a third means for accommodating said projection so as to maintain close and sealed contact between said first (18a) and second (14a) surfaces in the closed position of said cover (14). 17. The container of claim 1 wherein said hinge mechanism (34) comprises  a first articulation element (36) formed integrally with said container body (12) and extending towards the rear thereof  a second articulation element (38) formed integrally with said cover (14) and extending towards the rear thereof, said second articulation element (38) being designed to be aligned with said first hinge member (36) in the open position of said cover (14)  pivot means (40) extending through said first and said second articulation elements (36, 38) to allow pivotal movement of said second articulation element relative to said first articulation element, said pivot means ( 40) being made of an elastically deformable material which can accumulate an elastic restoring force while said pivoting means is deformed from an initial configuration  means active at said closed position of the cover (14) for causing a rearward offset of said second extension (38) relative to said first extension (36) from said alignment position to cause deformation of the pivoting means ( 40) retaining a tight and tight fit between said first and said second surfaces (14a, 18a) to build up an elastic force to cause said cover (14) to pivot in the opening direction when said cover is released from the closed position. 18. The container of claim 17, wherein said means for causing a rearward offset of said second extension (38) relative to said first extension (36) establishes a pivoting liana to transform said elastic restoring force driving said cover (14) with said second extension forward in a pivoting force to cause a pivoting movement of said cover in the opening direction of a predetermined magnitude when said cover (14) is released from said closed position The container of claim 17, wherein said means for causing a rearward offset of said second extension (38) relative to said first extension (36) comprises a projection (48) disposed between said container body (12) and said second extension and extending horizontally, said projection being active in said closed position of the cover (14) to cause a rearward offset of said second extension relative to said first extension from said aligned position to cause deformation of said pivot means (40) maintaining a tight and sealed fit between said first and said second surfaces (14a, 18a), said projection (48) establishing a pivot line to transform said elastic restoring force driving said cover with said second forward extension in a pivoting force to cause a pivoting movement of said cover in the d opening irection of a predetermined magnitude when said cover is released from said closed position. 20. The container of claim 19, wherein said projection (48) is integrally formed with said container body (12).  21. The container of claim 19, wherein said projection (48) is formed integrally with said second extension (38). 22. Container according to claim 17, further comprising an internal cover (50) disposed between said cover (14) and said container body (12), which internal cover comprises a third articulation element (52) cooperating with said first and second articulation elements (36,38) to form the articulation mechanism (34), said means for causing a backward shift being active for said second and third extensions (38, 52) relative to said first extension ( 36) from said aligned position to cause deformation of said pivot means (40) by maintaining a tight and sealed fit between said first and said second surfaces (14a, 18a) in order to accumulate an elastic projection force to rotate said cover (14) in the opening direction when said cover is released from said closed position. 23. The container of claim 22, wherein said means for causing a rearward offset of said second and third extensions (38, 52) relative to said first extension (36) establishes a pivot line to transform said restoring force elastic driving said cover (14) and said inner cover (50) with said second extension (38) forward in a pivoting force to cause a pivoting movement of said cover (14) and said inner cover (50) in the direction opening of a predetermined magnitude when said cover (14) is released from said closed position. 24. The container of claim 23, wherein said means for causing a rearward offset of said second and third extensions (38, 52) relative to said first extension (36), comprises a projection (48) disposed between said body of container (12) and said second or third extensions and extending horizontally, said projection (48) being active in said closed position of the cover (14) to cause a rearward shift of said second and / or third extensions relative to said first extension from said aligned position to cause deformation of said pivot means (40) by maintaining a tight and sealed fit between said first and said second surfaces (14a, 18a), said projection (48) establishing a line of pivoting to transform said elastic restoring force driving said cover (14) with said second and / or third extensions towards the front into a f pivoting orce to cause a pivoting movement of said cover in the opening direction of a predetermined magnitude when said cover is released from said closed position. 25. The container of claim 17, wherein each of said articulation rods (40) has an internal end engaging with a first rod receiving opening (44) formed in said second extension (38) and an external end s' engaging with said second rod receiving opening (44) formed in said first extension (36), said first and second rod receiving openings (44) being aligned with each other in the open position of said cover (14) . 26. The container of claim 25, wherein at least one of said first and second extensions (36, 38) forms an enlarged hole (46) communicating with one of said first and second rod receiving openings (44) to allow elastic deformation of said articulation rod (40) in the closed position of said cover. 27. The container of claim 26, wherein said enlarged hole (46) has a frustoconical configuration reducing the diameter to the position communicating with one of said first and second rod receiving openings (44) 28. The container of claim 25, wherein at least one of said first and second rod receiving openings (44) is oblique relative to a pivot axis of said hinge mechanism (34). 29. The container of claim 17, wherein said means for causing a rearward offset of said second extension (38) is disposed in a position of transverse offset to one side relative to the transverse center, and said first and second means used exclusively for cause a deformation of one of said articulation rods (40) which is positioned on the other side relative to the transverse center. 30. The container of claim 24, wherein said projection (80) is supported by means of an elastically deformable element; (82, 87) for elastic displacement from an initial position and a retracted position, said elastically deformable element being deformed from its initial position, said projection (80) being placed in said retracted position in the closed position of said cover (14) 31. A container according to claim 1, wherein said articulation mechanism (34) comprises  a first articulation element (36) formed integrally with said container body (12) and extending towards the rear thereof  a second articulation element (38) formed integrally with said cover (14) and extending towards the rear thereof, said second articulation element being designed to be aligned with said first element hinge in the open position of said cover  pivot means (40) extending through said first and said second articulation elements (36, 38) to allow pivotal movement of said second articulation element relative to said first articulation element, said pivot means being made of an elastically deformable material which can accumulate an elastic restoring force while said pivoting means is deformed from an initial configuration  means active at said closed position of the cover (14) for causing a vertical offset of an extension among said first and said second extension (36, 38) relative to each other from said alignment position to cause deformation of said pivot means (40) maintaining a tight and sealed fit between said first and said second surfaces (14a, 18a) to accumulate elastic force so as to pivot said cover in the opening direction when said cover is released from the closed position. 32. The container of claim 31, further comprising means for transforming said restoring force to restore the initial aligned position between said first and second extensions (36, 38) into a pivoting force for pivoting said cover (14) toward the opening direction of a predetermined magnitude. 33. A container according to claim 32, wherein said processing means comprises a projection (lolo, 115) disposed between the rear end portion of said first surface (18a) of said container body (12) and the end portion rear of said second surface (14a) of said cover (14). 34. The container of claim 33, further comprising an elastically deformable means (112, 114) for accommodating said projection (110, 115) between said first and said second surfaces (14a, 18a) to maintain a tight and tight fit between said first and said second surfaces.