JP2020536805A - Distributor - Google Patents

Abstract

The container for the product to be distributed takes the form of a body and a receptacle that is releasably coupled to the body and the body that define a compartment for storing frozen sugar confectionery such as ice cream and sorbet. The body has a lower region with an outlet through which the frozen sugar confectionery is dispensed from the compartment. The receptacle defines an open chamber when separated from the container to receive the frozen sugar confectionery that is distributed through the outlet. The outer contour of the body is configured to nest with the inner contour of the receptacle, and the outlet of the body is covered by the receptacle when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the body. The inner surface of the receptacle is configured to engage the outer surface of the body in order to releasably connect the receptacle to the body.

Description

The present invention relates to a type of container having an outlet through which a product to be distributed passes, for example, food products such as ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt.

From previous applications such as Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, a container having an outlet through which foods, especially ice cream and other frozen sugar confectionery (eg, sherbet or frozen yogurt), can be extruded. It is known to provide a container whose outlet cross section is smaller than the container cross section. Reducing the internal volume of a container can be done in a variety of different ways, such as by deforming the container or by using a piston inside the container. The container has an outlet through which the product is discharged, and the outlet serves to shape the product as it is discharged through the outlet.

Typically, the outlet is sealed with a removable tab or sticker to help seal the product in the container. Tabs or stickers must be removed before the product can be distributed through the exit. However, such placement configurations have proven to be problematic for use in fully automated distribution operations. Therefore, an alternative solution is needed.

International Publication No. 96/01224 Pamphlet International Publication No. 94/13154 Pamphlet International Publication No. 2014/184579 Pamphlet

A first aspect of the invention provides a container for the product to be distributed. The container comprises a body that defines a chamber for storing the product to be distributed, the body having an outlet in the lower region of the body through which the product is distributed from the chamber. become. The container further comprises a portion that is configured to move or deform in the direction of the outlet to reduce the volume in the chamber in order to distribute the product through the outlet, and the receptacle can be released from the body of the container. The receptacle defines an open chamber when detached from the container to receive the product that is coupled to and distributed through the outlet, and the outlet of the container allows the receptacle to release from the container body. Covered by the receptacle when possible combined.

The present invention provides an easy-to-use arrangement configuration for storing a product in a container and distributing the product from the container. The receptacle is releasably coupled to the container before, during, or after the filling operation, and the product can be stored in the container compartment with the receptacle releasably attached to the container. The receptacle is thereby arranged for ease of use in the dispensing operation through the outlet, and the receptacle can be released from the container body and used, for example, to collect products distributed through the outlet.

Advantageously, the engagement between the receptacle and the vessel body can be configured to form a seal between the receptacle and the vessel body, ie no protective tab or sticker is required at the outlet, in fact. Above, the receptacle is a closure to the exit.

In an exemplary embodiment, the container is a body portion having an upper region and a lower region that defines a compartment for storing products to be distributed, with an outlet provided within the lower region. And the product is intended to be dispensed from the compartment through the outlet when in use, to accommodate the product in which the receptacle is releasably coupled to the body and dispensed through the outlet. In addition, the receptacle defines an open chamber when detached from the body, and the lower region of the body penetrates into the chamber of the receptacle when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the body. However, the outlet of the main body is covered by the receptacle when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the main body, and the inner surface of the receptacle is the outer surface of the main body to releasably bond the receptacle to the container body. Configured to engage with, the container further comprises a portion configured to move or deform in the direction of the outlet to reduce the volume in the compartment in order to distribute the product through the outlet.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle has a base at the bottom of an open chamber, the base having an upper surface. The upper surface of the base comprises a convex portion that is concentric with the central axis of the receptacle. The convex portion engages with the outlet of the container body to help seal the outlet.

In an exemplary embodiment, the convex portion of the top surface of the base of the receptacle is formed as a result of the bottom surface of the base of the receptacle being concave.

In an exemplary embodiment, the inner contour of the receptacle is configured to nest with the outer contour of the container body. The term "nested" is intended to mean that a portion of the inner contour of the receptacle fits into the receptacle so as to follow a portion of the outer contour of the container body. When the receptacle is coupled to the container body, there is virtually no separation between the inner contour portion of the receptacle and the outer contour portion of the container body. In fact, most of the inner contour of the receptacle is in contact with the outer contour of the container body. This reduces the space envelope required for the container, reduces the storage space required, and facilitates the transport and delivery of multiple containers.

Preferably, the top surface of the base of the receptacle contacts the bottom surface of the body of the container.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle has a base at the bottom of an uncovered chamber, the base has a top surface, and the top surface of the base has a convex portion that is concentric with the central axis of the receptacle. Engages with the outlet of the container body to help seal the outlet.

In an exemplary embodiment, the body portion defines the lower region of the compartment, and the portion configured to move or deform in the direction of the exit defines the upper region of the compartment, thereby the body portion. The opposite end of the outlet so that the lower area of the compartment can be charged with the product before the body and parts that are configured to move or deform in the direction of the outlet are attached to each other during container assembly. It is open at.

In an exemplary embodiment, the portion that is configured to move or deform in the direction of the outlet is a lid that is configured to fit into the body of the container, preferably in a snap or tight fit.

Receptacle dimensions are dimensions that make it easier to ensure that the space envelope of the container does not increase significantly compared to a container without a receptacle, but the receptacle can still be used as a bowl by the user. It's big enough to do. In other words, the receptacle can be large enough to define a sufficient volume to accommodate a portion of the frozen product, which is suitable for the consumer and is suitable for use as a bowl.

The term "receptacle" as used herein refers to an uncovered "cup" that is suitable for the consumer and defines a sufficient volume that can accommodate a portion of the frozen product and is suitable for use as a bowl. It should be reiterated that it is specifically intended to mean. This receptacle is not suitable for use as a bowl and is completely different from prior art closures that require a separate bowl or cup to be provided to collect the product when distributed. In addition, the receptacle can be advantageously sized to match the capacity of the container, which helps to improve the appearance of the distributed product.

In an exemplary embodiment, the inner surface of the receptacle is configured to engage (eg, by snap or tight fit) the outer surface of the container body to releasably bond the receptacle to the container body. ..

In an exemplary embodiment, the product to be distributed is semi-solid, such as ice cream or other frozen food.

In some applications, for example, freezing may be present between the container and the receptacle as a result of storage in the frozen state, in which case heating or other, which may involve rotation of the container and / or receptacle. Some form of agitation may be required to crush or reduce the freeze, thereby ensuring a fully automatic disconnection of the receptacle from the container when the product is extruded from the container outlet. Will be understood.

In an exemplary embodiment, the underside of the receptacle defines an annular surface that is spaced apart from the central axis but is concentric with the central axis.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lower annular surface of the receptacle may be engaged with a suction device that forms part of the distributor, thereby assisting, for example, in separating the receptacle from the container. Position the receptacle in the desired position to receive the product from the container during the distribution operation, and / or send the receptacle to the user after the distribution operation.

In an exemplary embodiment, the container body is intended to define an outer step and the receptacle is intended to contact its upper end and the step when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the container body. Has a rim. In an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the base of the container and the step is less than the depth of the inner sidewall of the receptacle.

In an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the base of the container and the step is less than the depth of the outer sidewall of the receptacle. As a result, the receptacle increases the external area in which the product information can be displayed (ie, as opposed to the product information being displayed only in the lower part of the container).

In an alternative embodiment, the inner surface of the receptacle is configured to abut the radial outer surface of the container body when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the container body.

The engagement of these two surfaces helps ensure the radial placement of the receptacle with respect to the container. In other words, it helps ensure that the receptacle is centered and nested coaxially with the vessel body.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle has a rim at the upper end, which ridges radially outward from the container when the receptacle is coupled to the container body.

Advantageously, the top surface of the hem can be engaged so that the receptacle can be easily separated from the body when needed.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle is in the shape of a cup. In particular, the receptacle has a side wall extending upward from the base, defining an open chamber for receiving the product to be distributed from the container.

In an exemplary embodiment, the product is intended to be consumed directly from the receptacle after being distributed through an outlet without the need to transfer the product to a further container, eg, a bowl.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle is configured to be nestable with other receptacles of the same type and configuration, one after the other, inwardly.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle has an external lip portion at its open end, as this external lip portion may allow the receptacle to be easily gripped into a distributor, eg, an automated distributor. Is.

In addition or alternative, the receptacle is releasably attached to the vessel by one or more weld points. The weld point or each weld point may be configured to have a mounting strength that allows the container and receptacle to be easily separated at a particular force (ie, when distributing the product through the container outlet). .. In an exemplary embodiment, the weld point or each weld point is formed by one of spot welding, laser welding, or high frequency welding.

In addition, or alternatives, the receptacle can be releasably attached to the container using an adhesive suitable for allowing easy separation under typical distribution forces.

In addition or alternatives, the receptacle may be provided with an upright portion within an uncovered chamber, the upright portion being configured to engage the outlet of the container and allowing the product to pass through the outlet (eg, a predetermined force). Keep the receptacle loosely attached to the container until extruded (under).

In an exemplary embodiment, the upper portion of the container is dome-shaped and is configured to deform inwardly (ie, towards the outlet), reducing the volume in the container chamber and passing the product through the outlet. Push it out. In an exemplary embodiment, the container is a two-part structure having an upper portion and a lower portion, the outlet is formed within the lower portion, and the upper portion is for distributing the product through the outlet. It includes a portion that is configured to be deformed into a lower portion. In other embodiments (not shown), the container defines a conduit with an outlet at the lower end, and the lid or other portion is movable within the conduit (ie, towards the outlet). Yes, thereby reducing the volume within the container compartment, thereby pushing the product through the outlet.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the arrangement of the container and the receptacle is configured such that the receptacle is releasably detached from the container body as a result of the product being distributed through the outlet of the container. Such an arrangement configuration is particularly convenient for automated distribution operations, for example, the receptacle is configured to be detached into a seat located under the container to collect products extruded through the container outlet. Will be done.

In an exemplary embodiment, the container body has a central axis and the outlet is concentric with the central axis. Further, the receptacle has a central axis that is concentric with the outlet of the container when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the container body.

In an exemplary embodiment, the container further comprises a mechanical locking arrangement configuration for releasably fixing the receptacle with the container.

Advantageously, the mechanical locking arrangement configuration may be configured to prevent the receptacle from being undesirably detached from the container, for example, during transport from the filling arrangement to the distribution arrangement.

In an exemplary embodiment, the container body is provided with an outer peripheral recess and the receptacle is provided with an inner peripheral protrusion or vice versa, the protrusion having the mechanical locking arrangement of the container and the receptacle. It is configured to be accommodated in a recess by snap fitting or tight fitting for intervening.

In an exemplary embodiment, the outer recess is provided in the side wall of the container body and the internal protrusion is provided on the inner side wall of the receptacle.

In an exemplary embodiment, the external protrusions are provided on the outer side walls of the container body and the internal recesses are provided on the inner side walls of the receptacle.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle is configured to deform during the dispensing operation to aid in disconnection from the container. Advantageously, this configuration can help avoid the need for additional intervention (such as user intervention) during the distribution operation, thereby facilitating the improved automated distribution operation.

In an exemplary embodiment, the underside of the container body is a concave portion that is concentric with the outlet, is annular with respect to the outlet, and is intended to deform outward during the distribution operation. To be done. In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle defines a convex surface at the bottom of the uncovered chamber that is concentric with the central axis, and the concave portion of the container acts on this convex surface during outward deformation. Is intended to be. In an exemplary embodiment, the concave portion of the container is intended to nest with the convex surface of the receptacle when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the container body.

In an exemplary embodiment, the convex surface within the receptacle chamber is formed as a result of the recessed underside of the receptacle. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one reinforcing rib is provided in the lower concave portion of the receptacle. Reinforcing ribs that can form part of the radial array (ie, with respect to the central axis of the receptacle) form a support for the convex surface and are therefore convex when a force is applied through the deformation of the vessel during the distribution operation. It has the strength to remain in shape.

In an exemplary embodiment, the container compartment contains frozen sugar confectionery such as ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt.

A second aspect of the invention provides a container with a main body that defines a compartment for storing the product to be distributed, the main body providing an outlet through which the product is dispensed from the chamber. In the lower region of the body, the container further comprises a portion configured to move or deform in the direction of the outlet to reduce the volume in the chamber in order to distribute the product through the outlet. The container is further provided with a closure to the outlet, which is configured to be releasably coupled to the body of the container, the inner surface of the closure to releasably bond the receptacle to the container body. The container outlet is configured to engage with the outer surface of the container body (eg, with a snap or tight fit) and the container outlet is covered by the closure when the closure is releasably coupled to the container body. Be told.

The present invention provides an easy-to-use arrangement configuration for storing a product in a container and distributing the product from the container. The closure is releasably coupled to the container before, during, or after the filling operation, and the product can be stored in the container compartment with the closure releasably attached to the container.

Advantageously, the engagement between the closure and the container body can be configured to form a seal between the closure and the container body, ie no protective tab or sticker is required at the outlet. ..

In an exemplary embodiment, the container is a body that defines a compartment for containing frozen sugar confectionery selected from one of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt, the body of which is the upper region. The frozen confectionery has a lower region and an outlet is provided in the lower region, the frozen sugar confectionery is intended to be distributed from the compartment through the outlet during use, the closed portion comprises a body portion. , The lower region of the main body is releasably coupled to the main body, penetrates into the closed portion when the closed portion is releasably coupled to the main body, and the outlet of the main body is the closed portion with the main body. Covered by the closure when releasably coupled, the inner surface of the closure is configured to engage the outer surface of the body to releasably bond the closure to the container body, the container. Further comprises a portion configured to move or deform in the direction of the outlet to reduce the volume in the compartment in order to distribute the frozen sugar confectionery through the outlet.

In an exemplary embodiment, the container body defines the sidewalls formed by the steps or steps, and the receptacle is oriented when the container is oriented so that the outlet of the container is located at the bottom. , Releasably coupled to the container body in an arrangement under the steps or steps.

In an exemplary embodiment, the inner contour of the closure is configured to nest with the outer contour of the container body.

In an exemplary embodiment, the body comprises separate first and second portions that are configured to cooperate with each other (eg, by fitting) to define the compartment. The first portion defines the lower region of the compartment and comprises the outlet, the second portion defines the upper region of the compartment (eg, each of the first and second parts. 50% of the volume of the compartment), the second portion is configured to deform towards the outlet, thereby reducing the volume within the compartment and distributing the product through the outlet.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion defines a recess for receiving the product to be distributed during the charging operation, and the second portion surrounds the charged product in the first portion. The lid is defined (eg, using a snap fit or tight fit of the second portion on the first portion).

In an exemplary embodiment, the second portion is configured to nest within the first portion when the first and second portions work together to define the compartment. Will be done.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion is an inner surface comprising a step or step that allows the lower end of the second portion to be accepted when the second portion is nested within the first portion. Has.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lower region of the compartment nests within the closure when the closure is releasably coupled to the body.

In an exemplary embodiment, the inner surface of the closure is configured to engage the outer surface of the body in a snap fit and / or tight fit to releasably connect the closure to the body. ..

In an exemplary embodiment, the container is configured such that the inner contour of the closure engages the outer contour of the main body circumferentially when the closure is releasably coupled to the body.

In an exemplary embodiment, the main body has an outer peripheral protrusion, the closure has an inner peripheral recess, or vice versa, and the protrusion has a mechanical locking arrangement configuration with the main body and the closure. It is configured to cooperate with the recess by snap fitting or tightening fitting so as to be provided between and. Optionally, the body defines a bottom surface with the outlet and an additional side wall extending away from the bottom surface, the protrusion or recess being provided on the side wall.

In an exemplary embodiment, the closure has an inner contour that includes a base surface, and the container is such that the base surface contacts the underside of the body when the closure is releasably coupled to the body. It is configured as follows.

In an exemplary embodiment, the base surface is in contact with the peripheral edge of the outlet (eg, to seal the outlet) when the closure is releasably coupled to the body.

In an exemplary embodiment, the base surface is configured to engage said peripheral portion of the outlet when the closure is releasably coupled to the body portion to prevent leakage from the outlet. , And optionally, the protrusions define a convex contour, and optionally, the convex contours are the result of the concave portions being formed below the closure. In an exemplary embodiment, the container body defines an outer step, the closure contacts the upper end thereof, and the closure contacts the step when the closure is releasably coupled to the container body. Has the intended edge.

In an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the base of the container and the step is less than the depth of the inner sidewall of the closure.

In an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the base of the container and the step is less than the depth of the outer sidewall of the closure. As a result, the closure increases the external area where the product information can be displayed (ie, as opposed to the product information being displayed only in the lower part of the container).

In some applications, for example, freezing may be present between the container and the closure as a result of storage in the frozen state, in which case heating or other, which may involve rotation of the container and / or receptacle. Some form of agitation may be required to break or reduce the freeze, thereby ensuring a fully automatic disconnection of the closure from the container when the product is extruded from the container outlet. That will be understood.

In an exemplary embodiment, the underside of the closure defines an annular surface that is spaced apart from the central axis but is concentric with the central axis. In an exemplary embodiment, the lower annular surface of the closure may be engaged with a suction device that forms part of the distributor, thereby, for example, separating the closure from the container. Auxiliary, position the closure in the desired arrangement to receive the product from the container during the distribution operation, and / or send the closure to the user after the distribution operation.

In an exemplary embodiment, the closure has an external lip at its open end, which allows the closure to be easily gripped in a distributor, eg, an automated distributor, with this external lip. Because you get it.

In addition or alternative, the closure is releasably attached to the vessel by one or more weld points. The weld point or each weld point is configured to have a mounting strength that allows the container and closure to be easily separated at a particular force (ie, when distributing the product through the container outlet). obtain. In an exemplary embodiment, the weld point or each weld point is formed by one of spot welding, laser welding, or high frequency welding.

In addition or alternative, the closure can be releasably attached to the container using an adhesive suitable for allowing easy separation under typical distribution forces.

In addition or alternatives, the closure may include an upright portion within the uncovered chamber, which upright portion closes the closure until the product is pushed through the outlet (eg, under a given force). It is configured to engage the outlet of the container so that it remains openly coupled to the container.

In an exemplary embodiment, the upper portion of the container is dome-shaped and is configured to deform inwardly (ie, towards the outlet), reducing the volume in the container chamber and passing the product through the outlet. Push it out. In an exemplary embodiment, the container is a two-part structure having an upper portion and a lower portion, the outlet is formed within the lower portion, and the upper portion is for distributing the product through the outlet. It is configured to include a portion that is configured to be deformed within the lower portion. In other embodiments (not shown), the container defines a conduit with an outlet at the lower end, and the lid or other portion is movable within the conduit (ie, towards the outlet). Yes, thereby reducing the volume within the container compartment, thereby pushing the product through the outlet.

In an exemplary embodiment, the arrangement of the container and closure is configured such that the closure is releasably detached from the container body as a result of the product being distributed through the outlet of the container. Such an arrangement configuration is particularly convenient for automated distribution operations.

In an exemplary embodiment, the container body has a central axis and the outlet is concentric with the central axis. Further, the closure has a central axis that is concentric with the outlet of the container when the closure is releasably coupled to the container body.

In an exemplary embodiment, the closure is configured to be nestable with other containers of the same type and configuration, one after the other, inwardly.

In an exemplary embodiment, the underside of the container body is a recess that is concentric with the outlet, is annular with respect to the outlet, and is intended to deform outward during the distribution operation. To be done. In an exemplary embodiment, the closure defines a convex surface concentric with the central axis at the bottom of the uncovered chamber, with respect to the convex surface when the concave portion of the container is deformed outward. Intended to work.

In an exemplary embodiment, the concave portion of the container is intended to nest with the convex surface of the closure when the closure is releasably coupled to the container body.

In an exemplary embodiment, the container further comprises a mechanical locking arrangement configuration for releasably fixing the closure with the container.

Advantageously, the mechanical locking arrangement configuration may be configured to prevent the closure from being undesirably detached from the container, for example, during transport from the filling arrangement to the distribution arrangement.

In an exemplary embodiment, the container body is provided with an outer peripheral recess and the closure is provided with an inner peripheral protrusion or vice versa, the protrusion having the mechanical locking arrangement configuration of the container and the closure. It is configured to be accommodated in a recess by snap fitting or tight fitting to provide between and. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer recess is provided in the side wall of the container body and the internal protrusion is provided on the inner side wall of the closure.

In an exemplary embodiment, the closure is configured to deform during the dispensing operation to aid in disconnection from the container. Advantageously, this configuration can help avoid the need for additional intervention (such as user intervention) during the distribution operation, thereby facilitating the improved automated distribution operation.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lidless chamber comprises a bottom surface configured to be disposed adjacent to the underside of the container when the closure is releasably coupled to the container body. Often, when the closure is releasably coupled to the container body, at least a portion of the bottom surface is urged inward, projecting towards the container outlet, and urged inward at the base. The portion is configured to be deflected outward (ie, away from the outlet) as the product is distributed through the outlet, and the closure is configured to be detached from the container as a result of the deflection. To. In an exemplary embodiment, the inwardly urged portion is concentric with the outlet of the container.

In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the underside of the closure is configured to define a concave portion, thereby defining a convex surface within the closure that is concentric with the central axis. The convex surface is configured so that when the closure is releasably coupled to the container body, the product is distributed through the outlet of the container and deflected outward (ie, away from the outlet). The closure is configured to be detached from the container as a result of the deflection. In an exemplary embodiment, the underside of the container body is intended to nest with the convex surface of the closure when the closure is releasably coupled to the container body. It is concentric with and has a concave portion that is annular to the outlet.

In an exemplary embodiment, the container compartment contains a semi-solid product to be distributed, such as ice cream or other frozen food.

For all aspects of the invention, the outlet may comprise one or more movable elements that are moved outward (away from the internal compartment of the container body) during the dispensing operation through the outlet. .. These mobile elements load the receptacle / closure (eg, on the inner surface of the receptacle located adjacent to the outlet when the receptacle or closure is releasably coupled to the vessel body). It may assist in releasing the receptacle from the container during the hooking and distributing operation (ie, when the product is discharged through the outlet of the container body). Examples of such movable elements are known from previous patent applications, such as Patent Document 3, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Other aspects and advantageous features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments made with reference to the accompanying claims and the accompanying drawings.

It is a perspective view of the 1st container by one Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing of the container of FIG. 1 which is shown in the state which the container is separated. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 1 including the product stored in the container of the present invention. It is sectional drawing of the container of FIG. 1 which illustrates the piston which applies a force to a container of this invention. It is sectional drawing of the container of FIG. 1 which shows that the product of this invention is distributed from the outlet of a container. It is sectional drawing of the container of FIG. 1 which shows the product distributed in the receptacle of the container of this invention. It is a perspective view of the 2nd container in the separated state of this invention. It is sectional drawing of the container of FIG. 7 of this invention. It is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 7 in the combined state of this invention. It is sectional drawing of the container of FIG. 7 in the combined state of this invention.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 first, the container for the product to be distributed is indicated by 10. The container 10 has a main body 12 that defines a compartment 11 for storing products to be distributed. The outlet 14 is provided in the lower region of the main body 12, through which the product is distributed from the compartment 11.

In this embodiment, the main body 12 is a separate first configuration that is configured to cooperate with each other (eg, by fitting, as illustrated) to define the compartment 11. It takes the form of a portion 12A and a second portion 12B (ie, lower and upper portions).

The first or lower portion 12A defines the lower region of the compartment (also comprising the outlet 14). The second or upper portion 12B defines the upper region of the compartment 11. In this embodiment, each of the first portion 12A and the second portion 12B defines 50% of the capacity of the compartment 11. It will be appreciated that the first portion 12A, when separated from the second portion 12B, defines a recess for receiving the product to be distributed during the charging operation. The second portion 12B defines a lid for enclosing the charged product in the first portion 12A, as shown in FIG. 2 (eg, the second portion 12A on the first portion 12A). (Using snap-fitting or tight-fitting of part 12B).

The first portion 12A defines a concave portion for receiving the second portion 12B, and the second portion 12B is such that the first portion 12A and the second portion 12B cooperate with each other as illustrated. Then, when the compartment 11 is defined, it is configured to be nested in the first portion 12A. As can be seen in FIG. 2, the first portion 12A is a step in which the lower end of the second portion 12B is accepted when the second portion 12B is nested within the first portion 12A. Alternatively, it has an inner surface including a step portion 63C.

As most clearly shown in FIG. 2, the first portion 12A of the main body portion 12 has a tapered lower side wall portion 63A and an upper side wall portion 63B, and a step between the portions. A portion 63C is provided. The lower side wall portion 63A and the upper side wall portion 63B are provided with an axially outward taper that terminates at the upper edge within the lip portion 64. The taper angle is about 5 ° with respect to the longitudinal direction (although it may be in the range of 1 ° to 10 °).

The base surface 65 of the first portion 12A is generally planar and connects to the lower side wall portion 63A through the radial portion 66. An outlet 14 is formed at the center of the base 65.

The second portion 12B of the main body portion 12 is arranged so as to engage with the lip portion 64 of the first portion 12A in order to fix the second portion 12B to the first portion 12A. The lip portion 70 is provided. The fit between the lip 70 and the lip 64 is by snap fitting or clipping, as shown, by welding, heat sealing, or first portions 12A and second. Part 12B can be brought about by being tightly fitted to each other.

The lip portion 64 on the first portion 12A of the main body portion 12 is arranged and configured so as to fit in the downward annular channel flow path of the lip portion 70, and the second portion 12B is arranged as the first portion of the main body portion 12. It has a thickened region 77 that fits into a thickened region 76 when the first portion 12A and the second portion 12B of the main body 12 are attached so as to be fixed on the 12A.

The second portion 12B is generally a disk-shaped flat surface, has a central deformable region 71 that joins the foldable portions 73 and 74 that are deformable through the radial structure 72, and the lip portion 70 is folded. It is formed at the upper edge of the overlapping portion 74. At the joint between the downwardly folded portion 73 and the upwardly folded portion 74, when the second portion 12B is fixed to the first portion 12A, it is arranged in the middle below the main body portion 12. , There is a portion 75 that abuts on the step portion 63C. The portion 74 is tapered to match the taper of the side wall 63B of the first portion 12A.

At least regions 71, 72, and 73 of the second portion 12B are deformed as the second portion 12B distributes the product from compartment 11, for example by engaging the plunger with the central region 71 of the second portion 12B. It is formed from a flexible material so that it can be used.

In the assembled state (ie, the first portion 12A and the second portion 12B are coordinated with each other to define a compartment 11), the body portion 12 containing the product is frozen and transported. Can be and stored. Prior to dispensing the product from compartment 11 of the body portion 12, the product can be brought to an appropriate distribution temperature by temperature control in the case of ice cream or other frozen sugar confectionery products, or in some cases the body. The product in section 12 can be heated, for example, by microwave means.

The first portion 12A and the second portion 12B can be manufactured separately. In order to assemble the body portion 12, the second portion 12B is clipped onto the first portion 12A in this embodiment by a snap fitting arrangement configuration between the lip portion 70 and the lip portion 64. This assembly step can be performed at an assembly site away from one or more locations where the first portion 12A and the second portion 12B are manufactured. To allow the first and second portions to be transported easily and efficiently, each second portion 12B is the same as the other so as to form a stack of the second portions 12B. Can be nested with the second part 12B. Similarly, each first portion 12A can be nested with another identical first portion 12A to form a stack of the first portion 12A.

As can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the second portion 12B has at least one vertical rib 78 protruding radially inward from the inner surface of the folded portion 74. The first portion 12A also has at least one vertical rib 80 protruding from the radial outer surface. In this embodiment, the second portion 12B has a plurality of ribs 78 and the first portion 12A has a plurality of ribs 80. Preferably, the vertical rib 80 projects radially outward from the upper side wall portion 63B of the first portion 12A and extends vertically downward from the lip portion 64 to the lower half of the upper side wall portion 63B. Preferably, the vertical rib 78 projects radially inward from the folded portion 74 of the second portion 12B and extends vertically upward from the portion 75 to the upper half of the folded portion 74.

The vertical rib 78 of the second portion 12B has a function of engaging with a further second portion 12B when a plurality of second portions 12B are stacked together. This helps prevent the second portion 12B from being pushed too close to each other and thus reduces the risk that it will be difficult to separate the second portion 12B from each other at the assembly site. The vertical rib 80 of the first portion 12A has a function of engaging with a further first portion 12A when a plurality of first portions 12A are stacked together. This helps prevent the first portion 12A from being pushed too close to each other and thus reduces the risk of difficulty separating the first portion 12A from each other at the assembly site.

In fact, at the assembly site, the first portion 12A is removed from the stack of the first portion 12A and the product is charged. The second portion 12B is removed from the stack of the second portion 12B and fitted onto the first portion 12A by, for example, a snap fit arrangement configuration between the lip portion 70 and the lip portion 64.

The receptor 40 is releasably coupled to the body 12 of the container 10. To receive the product distributed through the outlet 14, the receptacle 40 defines an open chamber 41 when separated from the container body 12. The inner surface 42 of the receptacle 40 engages (eg, with a snap or tight fit) with the outer surface 18 of the lower region of the container body 12 to releasably connect the receptacle 40 to the container body 12. It is composed. The outlet 14 of the container 10 is covered by the receptacle 40 when the receptacle 40 is releasably coupled to the container body 12. The lower region of the main body 12 penetrates into the chamber 41 of the receptacle 40 when the receptacle 40 is releasably coupled to the main body 12 of the container 10.

The present invention provides a convenient arrangement configuration for storing a product in a container 10 and distributing the product from the container 10. The receptacle 40 is releasably coupled to the main body 12 before, during, or after the filling operation, and the product is in the main body compartment 11 with the receptacle 40 releasably attached to the main body 12. Can be stored. The receptacle 40 is thereby arranged for ease of use in the distribution operation through the outlet 14, and the receptacle 40 can be released from the container body 12 and used to collect products distributed through the outlet 14.

Advantageously, the engagement between the receptacle 40 and the container body 12 can be configured such that a seal is formed between the receptacle 40 and the container body 12, i.e., a protective tab or sticker at the outlet 14. Is not required, and the receptacle 40 is effectively a closure to the exit 14.

The arrangement of the main body 12 and the receptacle 40 may be configured such that the receptacle 40 is releasably separated from the container main body 12 as a result of the product being distributed through the outlet 14 of the container 10. Such an arrangement configuration is particularly convenient for automated distribution operations, for example, the receptacle 40 is detached into a seat located under the body 12 to collect products extruded through outlet 14. ..

The container body 12 has a central axis, and the outlet 14 is concentric with the central axis. The receptacle 40 also has a central axis that is concentric with the outlet 14 when the receptacle 40 is releasably coupled to the container body 12.

The receptacle 40 is configured to be nestable with other receptacles of the same type and configuration, one after the other, inwardly.

The receptacle 40 is releasably fixed to the main body 12 by, for example, a mechanical locking arrangement configuration. The mechanical locking arrangement configuration is configured to prevent the receptacle 40 from being undesirably detached from the main body 10, for example, during transport from the filling arrangement to the distribution arrangement. In this embodiment, the container main body 12 includes an outer peripheral recess 20, and the receptacle 40 includes an inner peripheral protrusion 44. The protrusion 44 is configured to be accepted in the recess 20 by snap fitting or tight fitting in order to provide the mechanical locking arrangement configuration between the container body 12 and the receptacle 40.

In this embodiment, the outer recess 20 is provided in the side wall 22 of the container body 12, and the internal protrusion 44 is provided on the inner side wall 46 of the receptacle 40.

The receptacle 40 may be deformed during the distribution operation to assist in disconnection from the container body 12. This configuration helps avoid the need for additional intervention (such as user intervention) during the distribution operation, thereby facilitating the improved automated distribution operation.

In an exemplary embodiment (eg, as illustrated in FIG. 2), the lower side of the container body 12 is concentric with the outlet 14, is annular with respect to the outlet 14, and distributes. The recess 24, which is sometimes intended to be deformed outward, is defined. For coordination, the base surface 55 of the receptacle 40 defines a protrusion configured to engage the peripheral edge of the outlet 14 when the receptacle 40 is coupled to the container body 12. In this embodiment, the receptacle 40 defines a convex surface 48, which is concentric with the central axis, at the bottom of the open chamber, and the concave portion 24 of the main body 12 is outside the convex surface. It is intended to act during orientation deformation. The concave portion 24 of the main body 12 is intended to nest with the convex surface 48 of the receptacle 40 when the receptacle 40 is releasably coupled to the container main body 12.

The convex surface 48 in the receptacle chamber 41 is formed as a result of the recessed portion 50 underneath the receptacle 40.

In this embodiment, at least one reinforcing rib 52 is provided in the recessed portion 50 on the lower side of the receptacle 40. Reinforcing ribs that can form part of the radial array (ie, with respect to the central axis of the receptacle) form a support for the convex surface 48 of the receptacle 40 and are therefore subject to force through deformation of the vessel 10 during the dispensing operation. It has the strength to remain convex even when it is squeezed.

In an exemplary embodiment, the engagement between the receptacle 40 and the container body 12 is configured such that a seal is formed between the receptacle 40 and the container body 12.

In an exemplary embodiment, the inner contour of the receptacle 40 is configured to nest with the outer contour of the container body 12.

The container body 12 defines the outer step surface 26, and the receptacle 40 is intended to contact the upper end thereof and the step surface 26 when the receptacle 40 is releasably coupled to the container body 12. It has an edge 54 that has been made.

The chamber 41 of the receptacle 40 is suitable for receiving an amount of product stored in the compartment of the main body 12. However, in use, the receptacle 40 can be easily disposed of by the user prior to the distribution operation. In such cases, the receptacle 40 acts only as a closure to protect the product stored in the body 12, and the product may be distributed in different containers.

For example, freezing may be present between the body 12 and the receptacle 40 as a result of storage in the frozen state, in which case heating or other, which may include rotation of the body 12 and / or the receptacle 40. Some form of agitation may be required to break or reduce the freeze, thereby ensuring a fully automatic disconnection of the receptacle 40 from the body 12 when the product is extruded from the outlet 14. It will be understood that there is.

The lower side of the receptacle 40 defines an annular surface 58 which is arranged at a distance from the central axis but is concentric with the central axis. The lower annular surface 58 of the receptacle 40 may be engaged with a suction device that forms part of the distributor, thereby assisting, for example, in disconnecting the receptacle 40 from the body 12. Position the receptacle 40 in the desired position to receive the product from the container 10 during operation and / or send the receptacle 40 to the user after the dispensing operation.

3 to 6 show an example of automatic distribution. When used in an automatic distributor, the piston 70 engages with a second portion 12B of the body portion 12 to deform the second portion 12B inward (ie, towards the outlet 14) and partition. The volume in 11 is reduced and the product is pushed out through the outlet 14.

As can be most clearly seen in FIG. 4, the concave portion 24 is deformed outward during the distribution operation by the force of pushing the product downward by the piston 70.

5 and 6 show how the force of outwardly deforming the concave portion acts on the convex surface 48 of the receptacle 40, and as a result, the receptacle 40 can be released from the container body 12. The product is separated and distributed from the container body 12 into the receptacle 40.

Then referring to FIGS. 7-10, 100 additional containers for the products to be distributed are shown.

The container 100 is very similar to the container 10 of FIGS. 1 to 6. The container 100 has a main body 112 that defines a compartment 111 for storing products to be distributed, the main body 112 has an upper region and a lower region, and an outlet 114 is in the lower region. A product provided (the product is intended to be distributed from compartment 111 through outlet 114 during use), the receptacle 140 is releasably coupled to the body 112 and distributed through the outlet 114. To accept, the receptacle 140 defined an open chamber 141 when detached from the body 112, and the lower region of the body 112 was releasably coupled to the receptacle 140 with the body 112. Sometimes it penetrates into the chamber 141 of the receptacle 140, the outlet 114 of the body 112 is covered by the receptacle 140 when the receptacle 140 is releasably coupled to the body 112, and the inner surface 142 of the receptacle 140 is the receptacle 140. The 140 is configured to engage the outer surface 118 of the body 112 in order to be releasably coupled to the container body 112, and the container 100 is oriented in the direction of the outlet 114 to distribute the product through the outlet 114. It further comprises a portion configured to move or deform to reduce the volume in the compartment 111.

As in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6, the body 112 provides compartments 111 for storing frozen sugar confectionery (eg, selected from one of ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt). It is defined by separate first and second portions 112A and second portions 112B that are configured to cooperate with each other (eg, by mating) to define.

The first portion 112A defines the lower region of the compartment 111, the outlet 114 is provided, and the second portion 112B defines the upper region of the compartment 111. Each of the first portion 112A and the second portion 112B defines 50% of the capacity of compartment 111.

In particular, the second portion 112B is configured to deform in the direction of the outlet 114, thereby reducing the volume within the compartment 111 and distributing the product through the outlet 114. To that extent, the second portion 112B may be manufactured in a manner that is the same as or substantially the same as the second portion 112B of the main body 12 in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6.

As in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, the first portion 112A defines a concave portion for receiving the product to be distributed during the charging operation, and the second portion 112B is the first portion 112B. A lid is defined at the portion 112A of the portion 112A to enclose the charged product (eg, using a snap fit or tight fit of the second portion 112B on the first portion 112A).

As in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, the first portion 112A and the second portion 112B cooperate with each other so that the second portion 112B is nested within the first portion 112A. It is configured to be performed when the compartment 111 is defined.

The first portion 112A has an inner surface comprising a step or step 163 that accepts the lower end of the second portion 112B when the second portion 112B is nested within the first portion 112A. ..

Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6, the lower region of compartment 111 is nested within chamber 141 of the receptacle 140 when the receptacle 140 is releasably coupled to the body 112.

As in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, the inner surface of the receptacle 140 is a snap fit and / or a tight fit to loosely connect the receptacle 140 to the outer surface of the main body 112. It is configured to engage with.

Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, in the container 100, when the receptacle 140 is releasably coupled to the main body 112, the inner contour of the receptacle 140 engages with the outer contour of the main body 112 on the circumference. It is configured to fit. The inner contour of the receptacle 140 has a diameter in the range of 70 to 100 mm. The circumferential engagement between the inner contour of the receptacle 140 and the outer contour of the body 112 extends axially along a distance within the range of 10 to 20 mm. The peripheral engagement extends axially along the complementary side wall portions 156A, 163A of the inner contour of the receptacle 140 and the outer contour of the body 112.

As in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, the main body 112 has an outer peripheral protrusion, and the receptacle 140 has an inner peripheral recess, or vice versa. The protrusions are configured to work together with the recesses in a snap fit or tight fit to provide a mechanical locking arrangement between the body and the receptacle. The main body 112 defines a bottom surface including the outlet 114 and a further side wall extending in a direction away from the bottom surface, and the protrusion or recess is provided on the side wall. In this embodiment, there is a protrusion 120 on the side wall 163B of the main body 112 and a recess 144 on the side wall portion 156B of the receptacle 140.

Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, the engagement between the receptacle 140 and the container body 112 is configured such that a seal is formed between the receptacle 140 and the container body 112. ..

Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6, the receptacle 140 has an inner contour with a base surface 155 at the bottom of the chamber 141. The container 100 is configured such that the base surface 155 comes into contact with the underside of the body 112 when the receptacle 140 is releasably coupled to the body 112. The base surface 155 is in contact with the peripheral edge of the outlet 114 (eg, to seal the outlet 114) when the receptacle 140 is releasably coupled to the body 112.

As in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, the base surface 155 is with the peripheral edge of the outlet 114 when the receptacle 140 is releasably coupled to the body 112 in order to prevent leakage from the outlet 114. Define protrusions that are configured to engage. The protrusions define a convex contour, which may be the result of the concave portion being formed on the underside of the receptacle 140.

Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, the main body portion 112 has a tapered lower side wall portion 163A and an upper side wall portion 163B, and a step portion 163C is provided between these portions. ing. The lower side wall portion 163A and the upper side wall portion 163B are axially tapered to terminate at the upper edge within the lip portion 164. The taper angle from the longitudinal direction is preferably between 1 ° and 10 °, and even more preferably between 4 ° and 6 °. In this embodiment, it is 4.5 °.

The base portion 165 of the main body portion 112 is generally planar and connects to the lower side wall portion 163A through the radial portion 166. An outlet 114 is formed at the center of the base 165.

The receptacle 140 has a rim 154 at its upper end and a substantially planar base 155 at its bottom end. There is a lower side wall 156A and an upper side wall 156B between the edge 154 and the base 155, and a stepped portion 156C between the lower side wall 156A and the upper side wall 156B. The upper side wall 156B defines a collar protruding from the step portion 156C in the axially upward projecting direction. The edges 154 and steps 156C are generally planar and extend radially, perpendicular to the central axis of the receptacle. The lower side wall 156A and the upper side wall 156B are tapered to match the lower side wall portion 163A and the upper side wall portion 163B of the main body 112 of the container 100, i.e., are tapered upward and terminated. .. The taper angle from the longitudinal direction is preferably between 1 ° and 10 °, and even more preferably between 4 ° and 6 °. In this embodiment, it is 4.5 °.

The upper side wall 156B defines the inner surface 156B'. The lower side wall 156A defines an inner surface 156A'. The step portion 156C defines the upper step portion surface 156C'. The base 155 defines the upper surface 155'. The edge 154 defines the upper surface 154'.

There is a radial structure between the inner surface 156A'and the base 155. It can be seen from FIG. 8 that the radial structure is only inside the receptacle 140. The outer surface of the lower side wall 156A extends downward and defines a skirt portion 157 between the lower side wall 156A and the bottom surface of the base 155. This helps maximize the outer surface area of the lower side wall 156A to provide more marketing space, eg, label on the outside of the receptacle. The skirt portion 157 projects further downward than the base portion 155 and circularly surrounds the base portion 155 together with a recess 159 defined by a curved transition between the skirt portion 157 and the bottom surface of the base portion 155.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 10, when the receptacle 140 is coupled to the container body 112, the taper of the receptacle 140 and the body 112 helps ensure that the receptacle 140 and the body 112 are in contact. You can see that. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the upper surface 155'of the base 155 of the receptacle 140 comes into contact with the bottom surface of the base 165 of the main body 112. Due to this contact, the receptacle 140 is correctly positioned in the vertical direction. The inner surface 156A'contacts the outer surface of the lower side wall 163A of the main body 112. The inner surface 156B'contacts the outer surface of the upper side wall 163B of the main body 112. The protrusion 120 comes into contact with the recess 144.

In this embodiment, the exact taper of the receptacle 140 and the body 112 is selected so that there is a tight fit between the receptacle 140 and the body 112. There is also a mechanical locking arrangement configuration in the form of a snap-type fitting arrangement configuration between the protrusion 120 of the main body and the recess 144 of the receptacle 140. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments there is only a mechanical locking arrangement configuration or a tight fit, not both.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, the mechanical locking arrangement configuration is arranged below the step 63C of the container body 12 when the container body 12 and the receptacle 40 are coupled. In this embodiment, the mechanical locking arrangement configuration is arranged on the stepped portion 163C of the container body portion 112 when the container body portion 112 and the receptacle 140 are coupled. As already mentioned, the arrangement of the mechanical locking arrangement configurations in each embodiment is interchangeable, or one above and / or below the steps 63C, 163C of the container bodies 12, 112. Alternatively, there may be multiple mechanical locking arrangement configurations. In other embodiments, there may be no steps on the container body. In such an embodiment, one or more mechanical locking arrangements may be provided between the container body and the receptacle. In such embodiments, as an alternative to or in addition to one or more mechanical locking arrangement configurations, there may be a tight fit between the container body and the receptacle. In such an embodiment, the axially circumferential engagement distance between the inner contour of the receptacle and the outer contour of the container body may be greater than 20 mm and the range may be, for example, 10. It can be from 30 mm.

In the current embodiment, the upper surface 156C'of the receptacle 140 is engaged with the upper surface 155' of the base 155 of the receptacle 140 and the bottom surface of the base 165 of the main body 112, so that when the receptacle 140 is combined with the main body 112. A space is provided from the bottom surface of the step portion 163C of the main body portion 112.

When the receptacle 140 is coupled to the main body 112, the edge 154 projects radially outward from the container main body 112. This is advantageous because the top surface 154'can be engaged so that the receptacle 140 can be easily separated from the body 112 when needed.

As described above, when the receptacle 140 is coupled to the container body 112, the inner surface 156B'of the receptacle 140 comes into contact with the outer surface of the upper side wall 163B of the container body 112. Advantageously, the circumferential engagement of the two surfaces helps to ensure the radial alignment of the receptacle 140 with respect to the container body 112, i.e., ensuring the coaxial nesting of the container body 112 within the receptacle 140. Help to do. For example, the receptacle 140 and the container body 112 are concentric, and thus the convex portion 148 helps ensure that it engages with the outlet 114 to seal the outlet 114.

In this embodiment, the body 112 is nested with the receptacle 140. As described above, the inner surfaces 155'and 156A' of the receptacle 140 come into contact with the outer surface of the base 165 and the lower side wall 163A of the container body 112. The radial portion 166 does not contact the radial structure between the inner surface 156A'and the base 155 and has different radii.

The chamber of the receptacle 140 is sized to be suitable for receiving the quantity of product stored in said compartment 111 of the container body 112.

As mentioned above, the diameter of the body 112 where the lower side wall 163A meets the step 163C should be between 70mm and 100mm. In this embodiment, the diameter of the main body 112 where the lower side wall 163A meets the step 163C is about 75 mm.

The diameter of the receptacle 140 where the lower side wall 156A meets the step 156C should also be between 70 mm and 100 mm. In this embodiment, the diameter of the receptacle 140 where the lower side wall 156A meets the step 156C is about 75 mm. In this embodiment, the diameter of the receptacle 140 where the edge 154 meets the upper side wall 156B is about 85 mm.

These dimensions of the container body 112 and the receptacle 140 help ensure that the receptacle 140 is ergonomically sized and optimal for the user to hold in one hand, eg, the user You can consume the product by holding a spoon in your hand.

The axial longitudinal distance between the step 156C and the base 155 of the receptacle 140 should be between 20 and 40 mm. In this embodiment, the vertical distance between the step portion 156C and the base portion 155 of the receptacle 140 is about 23 mm. The inner surface 156A'should be in contact with the outer surface of the lower side wall 163A over a longitudinal distance of 10 to 20 mm. In this embodiment, the inner surface 156A'contacts the outer surface of the lower side wall 163A over a longitudinal distance of about 12 mm.

Receptacles 40, 140 can be made from any suitable material. In the above embodiment, the receptacles 40 and 140 are injection molded from plastic. However, as an alternative, receptacles 40, 140 can be made from paper or cardboard material.

Claims (20)

A container for the product to be distributed,
A main body that defines a compartment for storing a product to be distributed, the main body having an upper region and a lower region, an outlet is provided in the lower region, and the product is: In use, it comprises a body that is intended to be distributed from the compartment through the outlet.
In order for the receptacle to be releasably coupled to the body and to receive the product distributed through the outlet, the receptacle defines an open chamber when detached from the body.
The lower region of the body penetrates into the chamber of the receptacle when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the body.
The outlet of the main body is covered by the receptacle when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the main body.
The inner surface of the receptacle is configured to engage the outer surface of the body in order to releasably bond the receptacle to the container body.
The container further comprises a portion configured to move or deform in the direction of the outlet to reduce the volume in the compartment in order to distribute the product through the outlet. The body comprises separate first and second portions that are configured to cooperate with each other (eg, by fitting) to define the compartment, said first portion. Defines the lower region of the compartment, comprises the outlet, the second portion defines the upper region of the compartment (eg, each of the first and second portions of the compartment The second portion is configured to deform in the direction of the outlet, thereby reducing the volume within the compartment and distributing the product through the outlet. The container according to claim 1. The first portion defines a recess for receiving the product to be distributed during the charging operation, and the second portion provides a lid for surrounding the charged product in the first portion. The container of claim 2 to be defined (eg, using a snap fit or tight fit of the second portion over the first portion). 2. Claim 2 in which the second portion is nested within the first portion when the first and second portions cooperate with each other to define the compartment. Or the container according to claim 3. Claim that the first portion has an inner surface comprising a step or step that allows the lower end of the second portion to be accepted when the second portion is nested within the first portion. The container according to 4. The container according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the lower region of the compartment nests in the chamber of the receptacle when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the body. 1. The inner surface of the receptacle is configured to engage the outer surface of the body with a snap fit and / or a tight fit to releasably couple the receptacle to the body. 6. The container according to any one of 6. Any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the container is configured such that the inner contour of the receptacle engages with the outer contour of the main body on the circumference when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the main body. The container described in item 1. The inner contour of the receptacle has a diameter in the range of 70 to 100 mm, and the circumferential engagement between the inner contour of the receptacle and the outer contour of the body is 10 to 20 mm. The container according to claim 8, which extends axially along a distance within the range. The container according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the engagement on the periphery extends axially along a complementary tapered side wall portion of the inner contour of the receptacle and the outer contour of the body. .. The inner contour of the receptacle comprises a stepped portion at the upper end of the open chamber and a collar protruding axially upward from the stepped portion, with an optional edge of the collar. The container according to any one of claims 8 to 10, which protrudes outward in the radial direction from the upper end portion. When the receptacle is releasably coupled to the main body, the container is snap-fitted or tightened between the radial inner surface of the collar and a portion of the outer contour of the container body. The container according to claim 11, which is configured as such. The main body has an outer peripheral protrusion, and the receptacle is provided with an inner peripheral recess or vice versa, and the protrusion has a mechanical locking arrangement configuration between the main body and the receptacle. To provide, the recess is configured to snap fit or snap fit together, and optionally, the body includes a bottom surface with the outlet and additional side walls extending away from the bottom surface. The container according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the protrusion or recess is provided on the side wall. The engagement between the receptacle and the container body is according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein a seal is formed between the receptacle and the container body. container. The receptacle has an inner contour with a base surface at the bottom of the chamber, and the container is such that the base surface is with the underside of the body when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the body. The container according to any one of claims 1 to 14, which is configured to be in contact. 15. The container of claim 15, wherein the base surface is in contact with the peripheral edge of the outlet (eg, to seal the outlet) when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the body. The base surface defines a protrusion configured to engage the peripheral edge of the outlet when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the body to prevent leakage from the outlet. The 16th aspect of the invention, wherein, optionally, the protrusion defines a convex contour, and optionally, the convex contour is the result of the concave portion being formed under the receptacle. container. The container according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the compartment contains frozen sugar confectionery such as ice cream, sherbet, or frozen yogurt. A container for the product to be distributed,
A main body that defines a compartment for containing frozen sugar confectionery selected from one of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt, the main body having an upper region and a lower region, and an outlet. Provided within the lower region, the frozen sugar confectionery comprises a body portion intended to be dispensed from the compartment through the outlet during use.
The receptacle defines an open chamber when detached from the body to receive the frozen sugar confectionery that is releasably coupled to the body and distributed through the outlet. ,
The lower region of the body penetrates into the compartment of the receptacle when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the body.
The outlet of the main body is covered by the receptacle when the receptacle is releasably coupled to the main body.
The inner surface of the receptacle is configured to engage the outer surface of the body in order to releasably bond the receptacle to the container body.
The container further comprises a portion configured to move or deform in the direction of the outlet to reduce the volume in the compartment in order to distribute the frozen sugar confectionery through the outlet. A container for the product to be distributed,
A main body that defines a compartment for containing frozen sugar confectionery selected from one of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt, the main body having an upper region and a lower region, and an outlet. Provided within the lower region, the frozen sugar confectionery comprises a body portion intended to be dispensed from the compartment through the outlet during use.
The closure is releasably coupled to the body
The lower region of the body penetrates into the closure when the closure is releasably coupled to the body.
The outlet of the body is covered by the closure when the closure is releasably coupled to the body.
The inner surface of the closure is configured to engage the outer surface of the body in order to releasably connect the closure to the container body.
The container further comprises a portion configured to move or deform in the direction of the outlet to reduce the volume in the compartment in order to distribute the frozen sugar confectionery through the outlet.

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