MX2007009604A

MX2007009604A - Polymeric containers and container assemblies with cohesive.

Info

Publication number: MX2007009604A
Application number: MX2007009604A
Authority: MX
Inventors: H Bernard Kirkland; Luba Lipkin; Scott A Hanson
Original assignee: Pactiv Corp
Priority date: 2005-02-09
Filing date: 2006-02-01
Publication date: 2007-09-25
Also published as: CA2596643A1; WO2006086268A3; US20060175326A1; WO2006086268A2

Abstract

A polymeric container assembly comprises first and second polymeric containers. The first polymeric container includes a first continuous body portion and a first rim having a first surface. The first rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the first body portion. The first surface of the first rim includes a first cohesive. The second polymeric container includes a second continuous body portion and a second rim having a second surface. The second rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the second body portion. The second surface of the second rim includes a second cohesive. The first container and the second container are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the first and second rims together such that the first cohesive and the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.

Description

POLYMERIC CONTAINERS AND ASSEMBLY OF CONTAINER WITH ADHERENT Field of the Invention The present invention relates, in general, to polymer containers. More particularly, the present invention relates to container assemblies that are releasably attached and to containers therein with adherents.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The use of inexpensive polymeric packaging containers has become popular, above all, for preparing and serving various food products. The polymer containers have been used to heat the food product (s) located therein. It would be desirable to have a polymer container that could be easily opened and closed by the customer. It would also be desirable to provide a container that can be releasably attached and that prevents or prevents material, such as liquid, from leaking out of the container. It would be desirable for a container to function without necessarily having a lid, although if desired, for the lid to form the container assembly or assembly and for the customer to be able to form this assembly with ease.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to one embodiment, an assembly or assembly of a polymeric container comprises a first and a second polymer container. The first polymeric container includes a first continuous body portion and a first flange having a first surface. The first flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the first body portion. The first surface of the first flange includes a first adherent. The second polymeric container includes a second continuous body portion and a second flange having a second surface. The second flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly from the second body portion. The second surface of the second flange includes a second adherent. The first container and the second container are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the first and second flanges, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together releasably. According to one method, a polymeric container assembly is formed by supplying a first polymeric container that includes a first continuous body portion and a first flange having a first surface. The first flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the first body portion. The first surface of the first flange includes a first adherent. A second polymeric container is provided which includes a second continuous body portion and a second flange having a second surface. The second flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly from the second body portion. The second surface of the second flange includes a second adherent. One of the first container and the second container is turned, so that the first container and the second container are generally aligned and the first flange and the second flange are adjacent to each other. The first and second flanges are pressed together, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together releasably. According to one embodiment, the polymeric container that will be used in a polymeric container assembly or assembly comprises a continuous body portion and a flange having a first surface. The flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly from the body portion. The first surface of the flange includes a first adherent. The flange is adapted to be releasably joined by pressing the flange together with the flange having the second adhesive of the second container, so that the first and second adherents are in contact with each other.

According to another embodiment, a polymeric container assembly comprises a first polymeric container and a second polymeric container. The first polymeric container includes a first continuous body portion, a first handle and a second handle. The first and second handles include and protrude laterally outward of the first body portion. The first handle includes a first adherent. The second handle includes a second adherent. The second polymeric container includes a second continuous body portion and a third handle and a fourth handle. The third and fourth handles include and protrude laterally outward of the second body portion. The third handle includes a third adherent, while the fourth handle includes an adherent fourth. The first container and the second container are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the first and third handles, so that the first adherent and the third adherent make contact and join together in a releasable manner and pressing together the second handle and the fourth handle, so that the second adherent and the fourth adherent make contact and join together in a releasable manner. According to another method, an assembly or assembly of a polymer container is formed using the first and second polymer containers. The first is provided polymeric container including a first continuous body portion, a first handle and a second handle. The first and second handles include and protrude laterally outward of the first body portion. The first handle includes a first adherent, while the second handle includes a second adherent. The second polymer container is provided which includes a second continuous body portion, a third handle and a fourth handle. The third and fourth handles include and protrude laterally outward of the second body portion. The third handle includes a third adherent, while the fourth handle includes an adherent fourth. One of the first container and the second container is turned, so that the first and second handles of the first container are generally aligned with respect to the third and fourth handles of the second container. The first and third handles are pressed together, so that the first adherent and the third adherent make contact and join together in a releasable manner. The second and the fourth handles are pressed together, so that the second adherent and the fourth adherent make contact and join together in a releasable manner. According to another embodiment, the polymer container to be used in a container assembly comprises a continuous body portion, a first handle and a second handle. The first and second handles surround and protrude laterally outward from the body portion. The first and second handles include a first adherent. The first and second handles are adapted so that they can be releasably joined with another container by pressing the first and second handles with the respective third and fourth handles having a second adherent of a second container. According to one embodiment, a polymeric articulated container comprises a polymeric base and a polymeric cap. The polymer base includes a first continuous body portion and a first flange having a first surface. The first flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the first body portion. The first surface of the first flange includes a first adherent. The polymeric lid includes a second continuous body portion and a second flange having a second surface. The second flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly from the second body portion. The second surface of the second flange includes a second adherent. The cover is joined in articulated form with the base. The first flange and the second flange are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the first and second flanges, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together in a liberable way. According to one method, a polymeric articulated container is formed by providing a polymeric base that includes a first continuous body portion and a first flange having a first surface. The first flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the first body portion. The first surface of the first flange includes a first adherent. A polymeric lid is provided which includes a second continuous body portion and a second flange having a second surface. The second flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly from the second body portion. The second surface of the second flange includes a second adherent. The cover is joined in articulated form with the base. The first and second flanges are pressed together, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together releasably. According to a further embodiment, a polymeric container comprises a polymeric base and a polymeric lid. The polymer base includes a first continuous body portion and a first flange. The first flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the first body portion. The polymeric lid includes a second continuous body portion and a second flange. The second flange surrounds and protrudes laterally out of the second body portion. Either the base or the lid forms a tongue and the other one of the base and the lid forms a groove. The tongue has a surface that includes a second adhesive. The other of the base and the cover has a surface that includes a second adherent. The base and the cover can be releasably joined together by extending the tongue towards the groove, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together releasably. In accordance with yet another embodiment, an assembly or assembly of a polymer container comprises a first polymer container and a second polymer container. The first polymeric container includes a first continuous body portion and a first skirt integrally connected and extending therefrom. The first continuous body portion has a first opposite located surface of the first skirt. The first surface has a first adherent. The first skirt has a first interior surface that includes a second adhesive. The second polymeric container includes a second continuous body portion and a second skirt integrally connected and extending therefrom. The second body portion has a second opposing surface of the second skirt. The second surface has a t adherent. The second skirt has a second interior surface that includes a sticky room. The first polymeric container and the second polymeric container are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by contacting the first and fourth adherents and contacting the second and t adherents.

Brief Description of the Figures Figure 1 is an exploded view of a container assembly according to one embodiment of the invention. Figure lb is a view of the container assembly of figure la in a closed position. The Figure is an enlarged partial view of the container assembly of Figure lb. Figure 2 is an enlarged partial view of the container assembly showing, generally, a flange region according to another embodiment in a closed position. Figure 3 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly showing, generally, a flange region according to an additional embodiment in a closed position. Figure 4 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly showing, generally, a flange region still according to another embodiment in a closed position.

Figure 5a is a side view of a container that will be used in a container assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 5b is a top view of the container of Figure 5a. Figure 5c is an enlarged cross-sectional view that is generally taken along lines 5c-5c in Figure 5b. Figure 6a is a side view of a container assembly in a releasably closing position utilizing the container of Figure 5a and a second identical container of Figure 5a according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6b is a top view of the container assembly of Figure 6a. Figure 6c is an enlarged cross-sectional view that is generally taken along the lines 6c-6c in Figure 6b. Figure 7a is a top view of a container with a plurality of handles that will be used in a container assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 7b is a side view of a container assembly in a releasably closing position utilizing the container of Figure 7a and a second identical container of Figure 7a according to one embodiment of the invention. present invention. Figure 7c is an enlarged partial view of the container assembly showing, generally, a handle region of Figure 7b. Figure 8 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly showingPI. , generally, a handle region according to another embodiment in a closed position. Figure 9 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly showing, in general, a handle region according to an additional embodiment in a closed position. Figure 10 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly showing, generally, a handle region still according to another embodiment in a closed position. FIGURE LIA is a perspective view of an articulated container according to an embodiment of the invention in an open position. Figure 11b is a perspective view of the container of Figure 11a in the closed position. Figure llc is an enlarged partial view of the articulated container of Figure 11b. Figure 12a is a perspective view of an articulated container according to another embodiment of the invention in an open position. Figures 12b-d are enlarged partial views of the articulated container of Figure 12a generally directed to the flanges in the open and closed positions according to one embodiment. Figure 13a is a front view of a container with a skirt that will be used in a container assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 13b is a side view of the container of Figure 13a. Figure 13c is a side view of a container assembly in a releasably closing position utilizing the container of Figure 13a and a second identical container of Figure 13a according to one embodiment of the present invention. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, the specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the figures and will be described herein in detail. However, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms described, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by of the appended claims.

Description of Illustrative Modes With reference to Figures la-c, an assembly or assembly of polymer container 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The container assembly includes a container 10 and a second container 110. The containers 10, 110 could be substantially the same, or alternatively, identical to the container 10 to form a container assembly that can be releasably closed. It is contemplated that other container assemblies could be formed in addition to those in Figures la-c. For example, container assemblies could be formed, but not limited to, the use of plates, bowls, trays, buckets, single-serve and family-size containers, refractory tableware of family size and single service and combinations of same. A combination is a bowl and a plate that forms a container assembly. The remainder of the application discusses, generally, a container and container assemblies with respect to the dishes although it is recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art that other container assemblies, such as those discussed above, could be formed . The height and shape of container assemblies they could vary from those shown without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the container assembly of Figures la-c as will be discussed, is shown to be generally circular. It is contemplated that container assemblies and containers used herein could be of other shapes, such as rectangular, square, hexagonal, octagonal, other polygonal shapes and non-polygonal shapes such as ovals. The container assemblies and containers of the present invention are normally used with respect to the food, although they could be used in other applications such as for storing domestic goods, medical supplies, cosmetics and other products. The container assemblies and the food containers could be used for the service, storage, preparation and / or reheating of the food. Still with reference to Figures la-c, the polymer container 10 includes a continuous body portion 12 and a continuous flange 14 that surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly from the body portion 12. The body portion 12 includes a portion of the body portion 12. lower 16 and a continuous side wall 18 surrounding and projecting up and down from the lower part 16. It is contemplated that the side wall could protrude only upwards from the lower part 16 or even that it could protrude towards the lower part 16. upwards and inwards from the bottom part 16. It is also contemplated that the flange could not be continuous, although you want it to be continuous. As shown in Figures la, c, the flange 14 includes a surface 14a (the upper surface of the container 10 in Figure la). The flange 14 includes an adherent 20. The adherent is defined herein as a material that will be bonded by itself. An example of a type of tackifier that could be used is a water-soluble tackifier. A specific example of an adherent that could be used is Product No. C-2159P85 which is an adherent available from Ellswoth Adhesives. This particular tackifier will be bonded by itself at temperatures of approximately -6.67 to 204.44 ° C (20 to 400 ° F). The use of an adherent overrides the need for an external latching mechanism. This is shown for example in the container assembly 100 in Figures la-c. As will be discussed below in connection with Figures 5a-c, 6a-c, the use of an adherent could assist a mechanical fixing feature created from the container by itself. It is contemplated that other adherents could be used. For example, it is contemplated that an adherent not soluble in water could be used. However, adherents not soluble in water could have disadvantages such as (a) gain approval from the FDA in applications involving food, and (b) possible reactions with polymeric containers among themselves. The adherents of the present invention generally have a tensile strength greater than about 0.23 kilograms (0.5 pounds) and typically have a tensile strength greater than 0.45 kilograms (1.0 pounds). Adherent 20 is shown in the Figure which is applied continuously around and in the general shape of flange surface 14a. It is contemplated that the tackifier could be applied over the entire surface of the flange instead of the portion shown, for example, in Figure la. According to another embodiment, the adherent is applied in substantial portions of the flange surface. The tackifier could also be applied intermittently around the flange such as in a pattern. Adherent 20 could be applied to flange 14 through a variety of methods. For example, the adherent could be sprayed on the flange. Spraying could be done in patterns to efficiently use the adherent, while still providing a desired retention resistance. According to another method, the adherent could be printed on the flange. The non-limiting printing techniques that could be used include screen printing, flexo printing and electrostatic screen printing. Any method of application could be used for the placement of the adherent 20 on the flange 14 provided that it allows a sufficient amount of adherent 20 to be applied to achieve the desired retention strength. Still with reference to Figures la-c, the polymeric container 110 includes a continuous body portion 112 and a continuous rim 114 that surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the body portion 118. The body portion 112 includes a portion lower 116 and a continuous side wall 118 that surrounds and protrudes upwardly and outwardly from the lower part 116. It is contemplated that the side wall could protrude only upwardly from the lower part 116 or could even project upwardly and inwardly from the lower part 116. lower part 116. It is also contemplated that the flange could not be continuous, although it is desirable that it be continuous. The rim 114 includes a surface 114a (the lowermost surface of the container 110 in Figure la). The rim 114 includes an adherent 120 (see Figure 1). The adherent could be the same as described above in connection with the adherent 20. Adherents 20, 120 are usually the same. It is contemplated that adherents could be different on the condition that the adherents 20, 120 can be joined together in a releasable manner. The polymer containers 10, 110 are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the flanges 14, 114, so that the adherents 20, 120 contact and unite with each other in a releasable manner. As best shown in Figure 1, the flange 14 forms at least one recess 30 therein. Similarly, the flange 114 forms at least one recess 130 therein. The recess 30 includes the adherent 20, while the recess 130 includes the adherent 120. By using the recesses 30, 130 the polymeric containers 10, 110 are releasably attached only after the flanges 14, 114 are pressed together due to that the adherents 20, 120 are initially only located below the remaining surface of the flanges 14, 114. The Figure shows the polymeric bonded containers 10, 110 once the flanges 14, 114 have been pressed together. According to another embodiment, a container assembly could include ridges in which each flange forms a plurality of recesses. For example, with reference to Figure 2, a flange 44 surrounds and protrudes laterally outward from a body portion (e.g. the body portion 12). The flange 44 forms a plurality of recesses 46a, b in which each of the recesses contains one of the respective adherents 50a, b. The flange 44 is pressed together with the flange 144, which includes a plurality of recesses 146a, b in which each of the recesses contains one of the respective adherences 150a, b. The flanges 44, 144 operate in a similar manner as the flanges 14, 114 described above. It is contemplated that the number of recesses and the dimensions thereof could vary from what is shown in Figure 2. According to a further embodiment, a container assembly could include ridges in which each flange forms a plurality of corrugations. For example, with reference to Figure 3, a flange 64 surrounds and protrudes laterally outward from a body portion. (for example, body portion 12). The flange 64 forms a plurality of undulations 66a-c projecting generally upwards thereof with the respective spaces 68a, b which are formed between the adjacent undulations of the plurality of undulations 66a-c. Each of the spaces 68a, b contains a respective adherent 70a, b. The flange 64 is pressed together with the flange 164, which forms a plurality of corrugations 166a-c projecting generally upwards therefrom with the respective spaces 168a, b that are formed between the corrugations adjacent to the plurality of corrugations 166a-c. Each of the spaces 168a, b contains a respective adherent 170a, b. The containers containing the flanges 64, 164 can be releasably joined together by pressing together the flanges 64, 164, so that the adherents 70a, b contact and releasably join with the respective adherents 170a, b. It is contemplated that the number of corrugations could vary from what is shown in Figure 3. According to a further embodiment, a container assembly could include ridges in which each flange has a surface that is generally flat. For example, with reference to Figure 4, flange 74 surrounds and protrudes laterally outward from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12). An adherent 80 contacts the surface 74a of the flange 74 (the upper surface of the flange 74 as seen in Figure 4). The flange 74 is pressed together with the flange 174, in which an adherent 180 contacts the surface 174a of the flange 174 (the lower surface of the flange as seen in Figure 4). According to another embodiment and with specific reference to Figures 5a-c, a polymeric container 210 includes a continuous body portion 212 and a continuous flange 214 that surrounds and protrudes laterally outward from the body portion 212. The body portion 212 includes a lower portion 216 and a continuous side wall 218 that surrounds and protrudes up and out of the lower portion 216 It is contemplated that the side wall could protrude only upwardly from the bottom portion 216 or even protrude upwards and inwards from the bottom portion 216. It is also contemplated that the flange could not be continuous, although it is desirable to be continuous. The continuous flange 214 includes a plurality of edges 220 that project generally upward therefrom. The plurality of edges 220 is spaced around the general periphery of the polymer container 210 and helps form a container assembly that can be releasably closed. The orientation of the plurality of edges 220 creates a pattern that is generally perpendicular to the direction of the flange 214. More specifically, the orientation of the plurality of edges 220 could create a pattern that is perpendicular to the direction of the flange 14. In a radial configuration with a pattern that is perpendicular to the direction of the flange, each of the plurality of edges 220, if extended inward, would pass through the general center of the plate. It is contemplated that other features or configurations in addition to the plurality of edges could protrude upwardly from the continuous flange. However, the plurality of edges 220 could be formed in different patterns from those shown in Figure 5b with respect to the flange 214 (for example, in the diagonal direction). It may be desirable to form the plurality of edges 220 in a decorative pattern for aesthetic reasons. This decorative feature could help to "hide" or disguise the releasable closure feature in container 210. Container 210 of Figure 5b has exactly 60 edges formed in continuous flange 214. It is contemplated that the number of edges could vary from shown in Figure 5b. For example, a container could have approximately 3 to 10 edges. A container could have approximately more than 20 or approximately 40 edges, and could even have up to or more than 120 edges. Generally, the number of ridges is approximately 20 to 60 edges. With reference to Figure 5c, the plurality of edges 220 is shown in greater detail. Specifically, a cross-sectional view of Figure 5c shows two adjacent edges projecting upward from the continuous flange 214. Figure 5c depicts a first edge 220a and a second edge 220b with a space 222 that is formed therebetween. The first edge 220a of Figure 5c comprises a generally planar surface 224 joining two side walls 226, 228. The first edge 220a is shown to be generally perpendicular to the plane of the remainder of the continuous flange 14. Specifically, the first edge 220a is shown to be generally perpendicular to the CC plane formed along the remainder of the flange 214 in Figure 5c. More specifically, the edge could be perpendicular to the plane of the rest of the flange. The side walls 226, 228 are spaced from each other and are shown to be generally perpendicular to the CC plane of the remainder of the rim 214. However, the side walls 226, 228 do not necessarily have to be generally perpendicular or perpendicular to the remainder of the rim 214. Similarly, the second flange 220b of Figure 5c comprises a generally planar surface 230 joining two side walls 232, 234. The second edge 220b is also shown to be generally perpendicular to the plane CC of the remainder of the flange 214. The walls sides 232, 234 are spaced from one another and are shown to be generally perpendicular to the CC plane of the remainder of flange 14. However, side walls 232, 234 do not necessarily have to be generally perpendicular or perpendicular to the remainder of flange 214. A In order to provide an improved closure vessel assembly, in one embodiment the adherent is added in the spaces formed between the edges and is added on a generally flat surface of the edges by themselves. For example, in Figure 5c, the adherents 240a, b are aggregated in the spaces formed between the adjacent edges. In addition, as shown in Figure 5c, the adherents 242a, b are added to the respective surfaces 224, 230. The adherents could be the same as described above in connection with the adherent 20. In addition, in order to provide a Improved closure vessel assembly, at least one of the edge side walls could have a skewed cut. This optional undercut that is formed in the flange sidewall engages with a similar undercut in a corresponding space formed between the adjacent edges of the second container when the container assembly is formed. For example, in Figure 5c, the optional skew cuts 226a, 228a are formed in the respective side walls 226, 228. It is contemplated that the shape and size of the plurality of edges 220 could vary from what is shown in the Figures. 5a-c. A polymeric container assembly 300 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figures 6a-c. The polymeric container assembly 300 includes a first container 210 and a second container 310. In one embodiment, the second container 310 is formed, of substantially in the same manner as the first container 210. Alternatively, the second container 310 could be identical to the first container 210. The polymeric container assembly 300 of Figures 6a could be formed according to a method by providing the first container 210 and second container 310. Second container 310 includes a continuous body portion 312 and a continuous flange 314 that surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly from body portion 312. Second container 310 is turned 180 degrees with relation to the first container 210, so that the containers 210, 310 are generally aligned and the shoulders 214, 314 are adjacent to each other. This inverted position of the container 310 relative to the container 210 is shown in Figure 6a. To place the edges within the respective spaces, the container 310 may have to be rotated in a light manner, so that the edges are displaced (ie, the edges and spaces are aligned). It is desirable that the consumer be able to assemble the containers to form a container assembly of the present invention. With reference to Figure 6c, the adjacent edges 320a, 320b of the container 310 are placed within the respective second spaces 222a, 222b of the container 210 and the edges 220a, 220b of the container 210 are placed within the respective spaces 322a, 322b, so that the container assembly 300 can be releasably closed. To place the edges within the respective spaces, the container 310 may have to be rotated lightly, so that the edges are displaced (ie, the edges and spaces are aligned). The adherents 240a, b are releasably joined to the respective adherents 250a, b, while the adherents 242a, b are releasably joined to the respective adherents 252a, b. As discussed above, it is desirable that the adherents 240, 250 be the same, although they could be different provided they are joined together in a releasable manner. Figure 6c also depicts the interference zones 324a, 324b formed between the first edge 220a and the space 322a created between the edges 320a, 320b of the container 310. With reference to Figure 7a, a polymeric container 410 includes a continuous body portion. 412 and a plurality of handles 424, 426 that surround and protrude laterally outward from the body portion 412. The body portion 412 includes a lower portion 416 and a continuous side wall 418 that surrounds and protrudes upwardly and outwardly. from the bottom 416. It is contemplated that the side wall could only project upwards from the part lower 416 or could even protrude upwards and inwards from lower portion 416. Each of the plurality of handles 424, 426 includes a respective surface 424a, 426a (the upper surface in Figure 7a). The surfaces 424a, 426a form the respective recesses including a respective adherent 420, 422 (see for example, recess 430 of Figure 7c). Adhesives 420, 422 could be the same as described above in connection with adherent 20. Adherents 420, 422 are normally the same. It is contemplated that the adherents could be different on the condition that they can be linked together in a releasable manner. With reference to Figures 7b, c, a polymeric container assembly 400 includes the polymeric container 410 and the polymeric container 460. The polymeric container 460 includes a continuous body portion 462 and a plurality of handles 474, 476 that surrounds and protrudes in lateral direction outwardly of the body portion 462. The body portion 462 includes a lower portion 466 and a continuous side wall 468 that surrounds and protrudes upwardly and outwardly of the lower portion 466. The orientation of the container 460 in the Figure 7b is opposite from that described above because the container 460 has been flipped 180 degrees. It is contemplated that the side wall could only protrude upwards from the bottom 466 or even it could protrude upwards and inwards from the lower part 466. Each of the plurality of handles 474, 476 includes a respective surface forming a recess. Each of the recesses contains a respective adherent. For example, in Figure 7c, the handle 476 includes a surface 476a (the bottom surface of the container 460 in Figure 7c) that forms a recess 480. The recess 480 contains the adherent 472. The adherents used in the plurality of handles 424 , 426, 474 and 476 could be the same as described above in connection with the adherent 20. The polymeric container 410 and the polymer container 460 are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the plurality of handles 424, 426, 474 and 476, so that the respective adherents make contact and are releasably joined to each other (see Figure 7c with the adherents 422 and 472). As discussed previously, each of the plurality of handles forms at least one recess therein. For example, in Figure 7c, the handle 426 forms a recess 430 that includes the adherent 422 and the handle 476 forms a recess 480 that includes the adherent 472. By using the recesses 430, 480, the polymeric containers 410, 460 , they are only releasably joined once the handles are pressed together because the adherents 422, 472 are initially located below the remaining surface of the handles 426, 476. Figure 7c shows the polymeric containers 410, 460 once the handles have been pressed together. The other handles 424, 474 operate in the same way as the handles 426, 476 shown in Figure 7c. According to another embodiment, a container assembly could include a plurality of handles forming a plurality of recesses. For example, with reference to Figure 8, a container assembly 510 includes a plurality of handles (the handles 514, 524 are shown in Figure 8). The handle 514 surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12). The handle 514 forms a plurality of recesses 516a, b in which each of the recesses contains one of the respective adherences 520a, b. The handle 514 is pressed together with the handle 524, which includes a plurality of recesses 526a, b in which each of the recesses contains one of the respective adherents 530a, b. The handles 514, 524 function in a manner similar to the handles 426, 476 described above. It is contemplated that the number of recesses could vary from that shown in Figure 8. According to a further embodiment, a container assembly could include a plurality of handles in which each handle forms a plurality of corrugations. By example, with reference to Figure 9, the container assembly 540 includes a plurality of handles (the handles 544, 554 are shown in Figure 9). The handle 544 surrounds and protrudes laterally outward from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12). The handle 544 forms a plurality of corrugations 546a-c projecting generally upward thereof with the respective spaces 548a, b which are formed between the adjacent corrugations of the plurality of corrugations 546a-c. Each of the spaces 548a, b contains a respective adherent 550a, b. The handle 544 is pressed together with the handle 554 of a second container. The handle 554 forms a plurality of corrugations 556a-c projecting generally upward therefrom with the respective spaces 558a, b which are formed between the adjacent corrugations of the plurality of corrugations 556a-c. Each of the spaces 558a, b contains a respective adherent 560a, b. The containers containing the handles are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing the handles together, so that the adherents 550a, b contact and unite releasably with the respective adherents 560a, b. It is contemplated that the number of corrugations could vary from that shown in Figure 9. According to a further embodiment, a container assembly could include a plurality of handles with surfaces that are generally flat. For example, with reference to Figure 10, a container assembly 570 includes a plurality of handles (handles 574, 584 are shown in Figure 10). The handle 574 surrounds and protrudes laterally outward from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12). An adherent 580 contacts the surface 574a of the handle 574. The handle 574 is pressed together with the handle 584 of another container 580. The handle 584 includes a surface 584a comprising an adherent 590. The adherents 580, 590 make contact between yes and are releasably joined to form the container assembly 570. According to another embodiment shown in Figures lla, b, a polymeric articulated container 600 comprises a polymeric base 610 and a polymeric cap 630 in which the lid 630 is hingedly joined to the polymer base 610 by means of the link 650. The polymer base 610 includes a continuous body portion 612 and a continuous flange 614 having a surface 614a. The flange 614 surrounds and protrudes laterally outward from the body portion 612. The surface 614a of the flange 614 includes a tackifier 620. The polymeric cover 630 includes a continuous body portion 632 and a continuous flange 634 having a surface 634a . The flange 634 surrounds and protrudes in lateral direction outwardly of the body portion 632. The surface 634a of the shoulder 634 includes an adherent 640. The adherents 620, 640 could be the same as described above in connection with the adherent 620. Adherents 620, 640 are normally the same, although it is contemplated that the adherents could be different on the condition that the adherents can be linked together in a releasable manner. The flanges 614, 634 are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the flanges 614, 634, so that the adhesives 620, 640 contact and engage with each other releasably. According to one embodiment, the flanges 614, 634 form a respective recess therein, in which each of the recesses contains an adherent. Specifically, as shown in Figure lll, the ridges 614, 634 form the respective recesses 628, 648 therein. The recesses 628, 648 include the respective abutments 620, 640. By using the recesses 628, 648, the polymeric articulated container is placed in a closed position only after the flanges 614, 634 are pressed together because the adherents 620 , 640 are initially located below the remaining surfaces of the flanges 614, 634. Figure llc shows the flanges 614, 634 after they have been pressed together. The height and shape of the articulated container polymeric could vary from what is shown in Figures lla, b without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the polymeric articulated container of Figures lla, b is shown to be generally square. It is contemplated that the polymeric articulated container could be of other shapes, such as circular, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, other polygonal shapes, or non-polygonal shapes, such as ovals. The polymeric articulated container could contain the adherents on the flanges that are configured differently from those shown in Figures lla-c. For example, in one embodiment, the polymeric articulated container includes ridges forming a plurality of recesses containing tackifiers such as flanges 44, 144 of Figure 2. According to another embodiment, the polymeric articulated container includes ridges forming a plurality of undulations containing tackifiers such as flanges 64, 164 in Figure 3. According to a further embodiment, the polymeric articulated container includes ridges having generally planar surfaces with adherents such as flanges 74, 174 in Figure 4. according to another embodiment shown in Figures 12a-d, a polymeric articulated container 700 comprises a polymer base 710 and a polymeric cover 730 wherein the cap 730 is hingedly connected to the polymer base 710 by means of the joint 750. The polymer base 710 includes a continuous body portion 712 and a continuous flange 714. The flange 714 surrounds and protrudes laterally toward outside the body portion 712. The polymeric lid 730 includes a continuous body portion 732 and a continuous flange 734. The flange 734 surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the body portion 732. According to one embodiment, the polymeric lid 730 forms a tongue 760 and the polymeric base 710 forms a groove or hole 770 (see Figure 12b). The tongue 760 has a surface 760a including an adherent 762. The base 710 includes the flange 714 with a surface 714a including an adherent 772. The base 710 and the cover 730 can be releasably joined together by extending the tongue 760 within the groove 770, so that the adherents 762, 772 make contact and join together releasably. As shown in Figures 12b-d, the tongue 760 extends through the slot 770 and is adapted to be bent (in the counterclockwise direction of the arrow A) so that the adherents 762, 772 make contact and join together in a liberable way. Adherents 762, 772 could be the same as described above in connection with the adherent . The adherents 762, 772 are normally the same, although it is contemplated that the adherents could be different provided they can be releasably joined together. It is contemplated that the tongue 760 could extend through the slot 770 and be pushed upward in the clockwise direction (the opposite direction of the arrow A in Figure 12c) so that the adherents make contact with each other. and join together in a liberable way. In this embodiment, an adherent would be located on the surface 760b which is opposite the surface 760a (see Figure 12b). The location of the adherent on the polymer base would be located to the left of the slot 770 as seen in Figure 12b. In this embodiment, the slot or orifice could be relocated to the right as seen in Figure 12b in order to provide a larger surface area for the adherents to join together. The height and shape of the polymeric articulated container could vary from what is shown in Figures 12a-d without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the polymeric articulated container of Figures 12a-d is shown to be generally square. It is contemplated that the polymeric articulated container could be of other shapes, such as circular, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, other polygonal shapes, or non-polygonal shapes such as ovals. It is contemplated that the adherent could be included on the flanges as shown in Figures lla-c. According to another embodiment shown in Figure 13c, a polymeric container assembly 800 comprises a polymeric container 810 (Figures 13a-c) and a polymeric container 850 (Figure 13c). The polymeric container 810 includes a continuous body portion 812 and a skirt 814 integrally connected and extending therefrom. The body portion 812 has an opposite surface 812a located on the skirt 814. The surface 812a includes an adherent 820. The skirt 814 has a surface 814a that includes an adherent 830. The polymeric container 850 (Figure 13c) includes a continuous body portion. 852 and a flap 854 integrally connected and extending therefrom. The body portion 852 has an opposing surface 852a of the skirt 854. The surface 852a includes an adherent 870. The skirt 854 has a surface 854a that includes an adherent 880. The containers 810, 850 are adapted so that they can be joined together in releasable form by contacting the adherents 820, 880 and the contact of the adherents 830, 870 with each other. Adherents 820, 830, 870 and 880 could be the same as described above in connection with the adherent 20. Adherents 820, 830, 870 and 880 are normally the same, although it is contemplated that adherents could be different provided they can be joined together in a releasable manner. It is contemplated that the container assembly could include a plurality of skirts. For example, each of the polymer containers forming the container assembly could include two skirts with tabs. Each of these skirts is adapted so that it can be releasably joined to the other container by the contact of the adherents with each other. The container and container assemblies of the present invention (e.g., the containers discussed above in Figures 1-13) are formed from polymeric materials. The containers and the polymeric container assemblies could be formed from polyolefins. Typically, containers and polymeric container assemblies are formed from oriented polystyrene (OPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene and combinations thereof. The containers and container assemblies could be made from a polymeric material filled with mineral, such as, for example, talc or polyolefin filled with calcium carbonate. It is contemplated that a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that others Polymers or combination of polymers could be used to form containers and container assemblies. The containers and container assemblies could be formed by a polymeric foam. For example, containers and container assemblies could be formed by a polystyrene foam. An example of a polystyrene foam is a high impact polystyrene (HIPS). It is contemplated that a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other polymeric foams or a combination of polymeric foams could be used to form container and container assemblies. Typically, the containers and container assemblies of the present invention are disposable, although it is contemplated that they could be reused at a future time. The containers used to form the container assemblies (e.g., the container 10) are shown to include a compartment. It is contemplated that the containers could be formed from multiple compartments. It is desirable that these containers be used for placing products (eg, food products) in different compartments to avoid or prevent mixing of the products. For example, undesirable mixing of food products could contaminate the taste and consistency of food products.

The container assemblies and containers of the present invention are commonly used with respect to food, although they could be employed in other applications such as the storage of household goods, medical supplies, cosmetics and other products. The container assemblies and food containers could be used to serve, store, prepare and / or reheat the food. One method of using these container assemblies includes placing the food and closing the containers to form a container assembly with food therein. Next, the container assembly is placed in a hot apparatus and then heated. Common heating appliances include conventional microwave ovens and ovens. The container assemblies could contain solid food products. The container assemblies could be used for storage in the refrigerator and / or freezer. The containers that will be used to form the container assemblies of the present invention, could be formed using conventional thermoforming processes (e.g., by pressure, vacuum or combination thereof), injection molding, rotational molding. . According to a thermoforming method, the granules of a polymer resin and additives, if they exist, they are added in an extruder. The granules of the polymeric resin and additives, if any, are combined to form a mixture. The mixture is extruded through a matrix to form an extruded sheet. The extruded sheet is thermoformed into a desired configuration of the container that will be used to form the container assembly. The thickness of the container that will be used to form the container assemblies fluctuates, generally, from 0.01 centimeters (0.002 inches) to 0.38 centimeters (0.15 inches), although it is usually approximately 0.01 centimeters (0.005 inches) to 0.10 centimeters ( 0.04 inches). The container assemblies could be opaque or a variety of colors or color combinations. The container assemblies typically have at least one transparent container if it is desired for the customer to evaluate the nature of the accommodated product and the condition thereof without having to open the container assembly. While the particular embodiments and applications of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise construction described herein and that various modifications, changes and variations could be apparent from the above descriptions. without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A polymeric container assembly, characterized in that it comprises: a first polymer container including a first continuous body portion and a first flange having a first surface, the first flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the first portion of body, the first surface of the first flange includes a first adherent; and a second polymeric container including a second continuous body portion and a second rim having a second surface, the second rim surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the second body portion, the second surface of the second rim includes a second rim adhesive, wherein the first container and the second container are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the first and second flanges, so that the first adhesive and the second adhesive contact and bond with each other in releasable form.
2. The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises a polymeric foam.
3. The container assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that at least one of the The first and second containers comprise high impact polystyrene.
The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises oriented polystyrene (OPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene or combinations thereof .
The container assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises polypropylene filled with mineral.
6. The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second adherents are the same.
The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second adherents are water-based adherents.
The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first flange forms at least one recess therein, at least one recess includes the first adherent and wherein the second flange forms at least one recess therein, at least one recess includes a second adherent.
9. The container assembly in accordance with the claim 8, characterized in that the first flange forms a plurality of recesses and wherein the second flange forms a plurality of recesses.
10. The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second containers are bowls.
The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second containers are plates.
The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first container is a bowl and the second container is a plate.
The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first container is substantially configured in the same way as the second container.
14. The container assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that the first container is identical to the second container.
15. The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first flange forms a first plurality of corrugations that project generally upwards thereof with a first respective space that is formed between the adjacent corrugations of the first plurality of corrugations, the first space respective contains the first adherent, wherein the second flange forms a plurality of corrugations that project generally upwardly thereof with a second respective space that is formed between the adjacent corrugations of the second plurality of corrugations, the second respective space contains the second adherent, and wherein the first container and the second container are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the first flange and the second flange, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together in a releasable way.
16. The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first flange has a first plurality of configurations projecting upwards with the first spaces that are formed between the adjacent configurations projecting upwards, the first spaces contain the first adherent, wherein the second flange has a second plurality of configurations protruding upwardly with the second spaces being formed between adjacent configurations protruding upward, the second spaces containing the second adherent, the second flange and the first flange being substantially configured in the same way, and wherein the first container and the second container are adapted so that they can be joined together releasably pressing together the first plurality of protruding configurations upwards and the second plurality of configurations protruding upwards, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together releasably.
The container assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first flange has a first plurality of edges projecting generally upwards thereof, so that the first spaces are formed between the adjacent edges, the first spaces contain the first adherent, wherein the second flange has a second plurality of edges projecting generally upward thereof, so that the second spaces are formed between the adjacent edges, the second spaces contain the second adherent, and wherein the first container and the second container are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the first plurality of edges projecting upwards and the second plurality of edges projecting upwards, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together in a liberable way.
18. The container assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that each of the first plurality of edges projecting upwards and the second plurality of edges projecting upwards includes approximately at least 3 flanges.
19. The container assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that each of the first plurality of shoulders projecting upwardly and the second plurality of projecting shoulders projecting upwards includes at least about 40 beads.
20. A method of forming a polymeric container assembly, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: providing a first polymer container including a first continuous body portion and a first flange having a first surface, the first flange surrounds and protrudes in lateral direction outwardly of the first body portion, the first surface of the first flange includes a first adherent; providing a second polymeric container that includes a second continuous body portion and a second rim having a second surface, the second rim surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the second body portion, the second surface of the second rim includes a second rim adherent; turning one of the first container and the second container, so that the first container and the second container are generally aligned and that the first flange and the second flange are adjacent to each other; and press together the first and second flanges, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together in a releasable manner.
The method according to claim 20, further characterized in that it includes placing a food article on at least one of the first container and the second container before pressing together the first and second flanges.
22. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises a polymeric foam.
23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises high impact polystyrene.
The method according to claim 20, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises oriented polystyrene (OPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene or combinations thereof.
25. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises polypropylene filled with mineral.
26. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that the first and second adherents are the same.
27. The method of compliance with the claim 20, characterized in that the first and second adherents are water-based adherents.
The method according to claim 20, characterized in that the first flange forms at least one recess therein, at least one recess includes the first adherent and wherein the second flange forms at least one recess therein, at least A recess includes a second adherent.
29. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that the first flange has a first plurality of configurations protruding upwards with the first spaces that are formed between the adjacent configurations projecting upwards, the first spaces contain the first adherent, wherein the second flange has a second plurality of configurations protruding upwardly with the second spaces being formed between the adjacent configurations protruding upward, the second spaces containing the second adherent, the second flange and the first flange being substantially configured from same way, and wherein the first container and the second container are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the first plurality of protruding configurations upwards and the second plurality of configurations protruding upwards, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together in a releasable manner.
30. A polymeric container assembly, characterized in that it comprises: a first polymer container including a first continuous body portion, a first handle and a second handle, the first and second handle surround and protrude laterally outward of the first body portion, the first handle includes a first adherent, the second handle includes a second adherent; and a second polymer container including a second continuous body portion, a third handle and a fourth handle, the third and fourth handles surround and protrude laterally outwardly from the second body portion, the third handle includes a third adherent , the fourth handle includes an adherent room, wherein the first container and the second container are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the first handle and the third handle, so that the first adherent and the third adherent make contact and join together releasably and pressing together the second handle and the fourth handle, so that the second adherent and the fourth adherent make contact and join together in a releasable manner.
31. The container assembly according to claim 30, characterized in that at least one of the The first and second containers comprise a polymeric foam.
32. The container assembly according to claim 31, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises high impact polystyrene.
33. The container assembly according to claim 30, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises oriented polystyrene (OPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene or combinations thereof. .
34. The container assembly according to claim 33, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises polypropylene filled with mineral.
35. The container assembly according to claim 30, characterized in that the first, second, third and fourth adherents are the same.
36. The container assembly according to claim 30, characterized in that the first, second, third and fourth adherents are adherents based on water.
37. The container assembly according to claim 30, characterized in that the first container has exactly one first handle and a second handle, the first and second handles are located on opposite sides of each other and where the second container has exactly one third handle and one fourth handle, the third and fourth handles are located on opposite sides of each other.
38. The container assembly according to claim 30, characterized in that the first handle forms a first recess therein and the second handle forms a second recess therein, the first and second recesses include the respective first and second adherents, and wherein the third handle forms a third recess therein and the fourth handle forms a fourth recess therein, the third and fourth recesses include the respective third and fourth adherents.
39. The container assembly according to claim 30, characterized in that the first handle forms a plurality of first recesses therein and the second handle forms a plurality of second recesses therein, the first and second plurality of recesses include the first and second respective adherents, and wherein the third handle forms a plurality of third recesses therein and the fourth handle forms a plurality of fourth recesses therein, the third and fourth plurality of recesses include the respective third and fourth adherents.
40. The container assembly according to claim 30, characterized in that the first and second bowls are bowls.
41. The container assembly according to claim 30, characterized in that the first and second containers are plates.
42. The container assembly according to claim 30, characterized in that the first container is a bowl and the second container is a plate.
43. The container assembly according to claim 30, characterized in that the first container is substantially configured in the same way as the second container.
44. The container assembly according to claim 43, characterized in that the first container is identical to the second container.
45. A method of shaping a polymeric container assembly, characterized in that it comprises the actions of: providing a first polymer container including a first continuous body portion, a first handle, and a second handle, the first and second handles surround and projecting laterally outward from the first body portion, the first handle includes a first adherent, the second handle includes a second adherent; providing a second polymeric container that includes a second continuous body portion, a third handle and a fourth handle, the third and fourth handles surround and protrude in lateral direction outwardly of the second body portion, the third handle includes a third adherent, the fourth handle includes a fourth adherent; turning one of the first container and the second container, so that the first and second handles of the first container are generally aligned with respect to the third and fourth handles of the second container; press together the first and third handles, so that the first adherent and the third adherent make contact and join together in a releasable manner; and pressing together the second and fourth handles, so that the second adherent and the fourth adherent make contact and join together in a releasable manner.
46. The method according to claim 45, further characterized in that it includes placing a food article on at least one of the first container and the second container before pressing together the first and second handles and before pressing together the second and fourth handles .
47. The method according to claim 45, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises a polymeric foam.
48. The method according to claim 47, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises high impact polystyrene.
49. The method of compliance with the claim 45, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises oriented polystyrene (OPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene or combinations thereof.
50. The method of compliance with the claim 49, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises polypropylene filled with mineral.
51. The method according to claim 45, characterized in that the first, second, third and fourth adherents are the same.
52. The method according to claim 45, characterized in that the first, second, third and fourth adherents are adherents based on water.
53. The method according to claim 45, characterized in that the first container has exactly one first handle and a second handle, the first and second handles are located on opposite sides of each other and wherein the second container has exactly one third handle and a fourth handle, the third and fourth handles are located on opposite sides of each other.
54. The method according to claim 45, characterized in that the first handle forms a first recess therein and the second handle forms a second recess therein, the first and second recesses include the first and second respective adherences, and in where the third handle it forms a third recess in it and the fourth handle forms a fourth recess therein, the third and fourth recesses include the respective third and fourth adherents.
55. A polymeric articulated container, characterized in that it comprises: a polymeric base including a first continuous body portion and a first flange having a first surface, the first flange surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the first body portion, the first surface of the first flange includes a first adherent; and a polymeric lid including a second continuous body portion and a second rim having a second surface, the second rim surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the second body portion, the second surface of the second rim includes a second adherent , the cover is hingedly connected to the base, wherein the first flange and the second flange are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by pressing together the first and second flanges, so that the first adhesive and second adherent make contact and join together in a releasable way.
56. The container according to claim 55, characterized in that at least one of the base and the lid comprises a polymeric foam.
57. The container in accordance with claim 56, characterized in that at least one of the base and lid comprises high impact polystyrene.
58. The container according to claim 55, characterized in that at least one of the base and the lid comprises oriented polystyrene (OPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene or combinations thereof.
59. The container according to claim 58, characterized in that at least one of the base and the lid comprises polypropylene filled with mineral.
60. The container according to claim 55, characterized in that the first and second adherents are the same.
61. The container according to claim 55, characterized in that the first and second adherents are water-based adherents.
62. The container according to claim 55, characterized in that the first flange forms at least one recess therein, at least one recess includes the first adherent and wherein the second flange forms at least one recess therein, at least A recess includes a second adherent.
63. The container according to claim 62, characterized in that the first flange forms a plurality of recesses and wherein the second flange forms a plurality of recesses.
64. The container according to claim 55, characterized in that the first flange forms a first plurality of corrugations that project generally upwards therefrom with a first respective space that is formed between the adjacent corrugations of the first plurality of corrugations, the first respective space contains the first adherent, wherein the second flange forms a plurality of corrugations that project generally upwards therefrom with a second respective space that is formed between the adjacent corrugations of the second plurality of corrugations, the second space respective contains the second adhesive, and wherein the base and the lid are adapted so that they can be joined together releasably by pressing together the first flange and the second flange, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and unite with each other in a liberable way.
65. A method of using a polymeric articulated container, characterized in that it comprises the actions of: providing a polymeric base including a first continuous body portion and a first flange having a first surface, the first flange surrounds and protrudes in the radial direction outward of the first body portion, the first surface of the first flange includes a first adherent; providing a polymeric lid that includes a second continuous body portion and a second rim having a second surface, the second rim surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the second body portion, the second surface of the second rim includes a second adherent , the cover is joined in articulated form with the base; and pressing together the first and second flanges, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together releasably.
66. The method according to claim 65, further characterized in that it includes placing a food article on at least one of the base and the lid before pressing together the first and second flanges.
67. The method according to the claim 65, characterized in that at least one of the base and the lid comprises a polymeric foam.
68. The method according to claim 67, characterized in that at least one of the base and the lid comprises high impact polystyrene.
69. The method according to claim 65, characterized in that at least one of the base and the lid comprises oriented polystyrene (OPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene or combinations thereof.
70. The method according to claim 69, characterized in that at least one of the base and the lid comprises polypropylene filled with mineral.
71. The method according to claim 65, characterized in that the first and second adherents are the same.
72. The method according to claim 65, characterized in that the first and second adherents are water-based adherents.
73. The method of compliance with the claim 65, characterized in that the first flange forms at least one recess therein, at least one recess includes the first adherent and wherein the second flange forms at least one recess therein, at least one recess includes a second adherent.
74. A polymeric container, characterized in that it comprises: a polymeric base including a first continuous body portion and a first rim, the first rim surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the first body portion; and a polymeric cap that includes a second continuous body portion and a second rim, the second rim surrounds and protrudes laterally outwardly of the second body portion, wherein either the base or the cap forms one tab and the other of the base and the lid forms a groove, the tongue has a surface that includes a second adherent, the other of the base and the lid has a surface that includes a second adherent, the base and the lid can be releasably joined together by extending the tab within the slot, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together in a releasable way.
75. The container according to claim 74, characterized in that the lid forms a tongue and the base forms a groove.
76. The container according to claim 75, characterized in that the first flange of the base forms a groove.
77. The container according to claim 74, characterized in that the tongue is adapted to be bent, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together in a releasable manner.
78. The container according to claim 74, characterized in that the tongue is adapted to be bent in a direction of clockwise rotation so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together in a releasable
79. The container according to claim 74, characterized in that the tongue is adapted to bend in an opposite direction of clockwise rotation, so that the first adherent and the second adherent make contact and join together in a releasable manner.
80. The container according to claim 74, characterized in that at least one of the base and the lid comprises high impact polystyrene.
81. The container according to claim 74, characterized in that at least one of the base and the lid comprises oriented polystyrene (OPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene or combinations thereof.
82. The container according to claim 81, characterized in that at least one of the base and the lid comprises polypropylene filled with mineral.
83. The container according to claim 74, characterized in that the first and second adherents are the same.
84. The container according to claim 74, characterized in that the first and second adherents are water-based adherents.
85. A polymeric container assembly, characterized in that it comprises: a first polymer container including a first continuous body portion and a first skirt integrally connected and extending therefrom, the first continuous body portion has a first opposite located surface of the first skirt, the first surface has a first adherent, the first skirt has a first interior surface that includes a second adherent; a second polymer container includes a second continuous body portion and a second skirt integrally connected and extending therefrom, the second body portion has a second opposing surface of the second apron, the second surface has a third adherent, the second skirt has a second interior surface that includes an adherent room; wherein the first polymeric container and the second polymeric container are adapted so that they can be releasably joined together by contacting the first and fourth adherents and contacting the second and third adherents.
86. The container assembly according to claim 85, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises a polymeric foam.
87. The container assembly according to claim 86, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises high impact polystyrene.
88. The container assembly in accordance with the claim 85, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises oriented polystyrene (OPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene or combinations thereof.
89. The container assembly according to claim 88, characterized in that at least one of the first and second containers comprises polypropylene filled with mineral.
90. The container assembly according to claim 85, characterized in that the first, second, third and fourth adherents are the same.
91. The container assembly according to claim 85, characterized in that the first, second, third and fourth adherents are adherents based on water.
92. The container assembly according to claim 85, characterized in that the first container is substantially configured in the same way as the second container.
93. The container assembly according to claim 92, characterized in that the first container is identical to the second container.