MXPA06006160A - Containers having one or more compartments and a handle - Google Patents

Abstract

Containers (2) having one or more compartments (4, 6), wherein said one or more compartments form a structure;at least one opening (14) fluidly connected to the one or more compartments;at least one void (22) formed within the structure;and at least one handle (8) functionally connected to the structure intersecting the void.

Description

CONTAINERS THAT HAVE ONE OR MORE COMPARTMENTS AND A HANDLE FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a container comprising one or more compartments, wherein one or more of said compartments form a structure; at least one opening with connection for fluids to one or more compartments; at least one recess extending at least partially through the structure; and at least one handle functionally connected to the structure that intersects the hollow and forms at least two openings. The present invention further relates to a container comprising two or more compartments, wherein said two or more compartments form a structure; at least one opening with connection for fluids to said two or more compartments; at least one recess extending at least partially through the structure; and at least one handle functionally connected to the structure that crosses the gap and forms at least two openings.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Containers that have handles are well known in the industry. Said containers have been used for a multiplicity of products that include containers for chemical products, food products, cleaning products, and the like. Although mangoes are well known in the industry, they still present continuing problems related to use. Frequently, these containers are difficult to control because of the poor location of the handles in the container. The location of the handle usually requires the use of both hands to control the container. Moreover, it is necessary to make an extra effort to work with these containers due to the poor location of the handle with respect to the center of gravity of the bottle. In addition, molding or joining the handle to the container is often difficult and expensive. Containers having two or more compartments are also known in the industry. These multi-compartment packages allow the joint packaging of compositions that can not be easily, stably or cost-effectively packaged in standard single-compartment packages. Sometimes, these containers or containers with multiple compartments allow the occurrence of foam when two separate substances are dispatched and react. Recently, some isolated examples of consumer products in double-compartment packaging have had some commercial success. Double compartment adhesives are particularly successful, especially those of the epoxy type. Other examples include U.S. Pat. no. 5,950,873, currently used for "Mentadent®", and U.S. Pat. no. D430,798, currently used for "Liquid Plumr®". Both products use containers that are dispensed from the top and do not have handles, spigots and / or mechanisms to dispatch. Both products are marketed to provide a single benefit when combining double compositions. When the "Liquid Plumr®" product is placed on a shelf in such a way that the title label (front) can be seen, it suggests a double compartment structure, but only because it is an opaque container; with both compartments of the same color, although the container is deeply grooved. While containers with two or more compartments may be relatively common in product areas outside the laundry area, these types of compartments are unusual in the field of laundry products and have not enjoyed wide commercial success. . The greatest difficulty in using containers with multiple compartments for laundry products consists of the capacity of the user of the container to pour the contents of said container without major difficulties. The difficulties associated with multi-compartment containers, as well as with single-compartment containers, consist of problems in using a handle that has a poor control capacity and involves higher expenses. Specifically, a convenient and simplified way to create a container that is inexpensive and easy to control for the consumer has not been achieved. Also, it has been difficult to form a container that, in addition to being easy to handle and inexpensive, could be configured to use one or more compartments.

Therefore, the need to provide a container that can have one or more compartments, can be manufactured at low cost and the consumer can handle it without too much difficulty.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a container comprising one or more compartments, wherein one or more of said compartments form a structure; at least one opening with connection for fluids to one or more compartments; at least one recess extending at least partially through the structure, and at least one handle operatively connected to the structure that intersects the recess and forms at least two openings. In one embodiment, the structure is made of plastic. In a more preferred embodiment, the plastic is selected from the group comprising high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and mixtures thereof.

In a still more preferred embodiment, the plastic is high density polyethylene. In one embodiment, the one or more compartments have a volume of about 10 mL to about 5000 mL. In another embodiment, said at least one handle is at least partially hollow. In a preferred embodiment, at least one handle is in continuous communication with the one or more compartments. In a more preferred embodiment, at least one handle comprises the center of gravity.

In one embodiment, the container is formed by blow molding. In another embodiment, the container is formed of a piece of plastic. In one embodiment, the container further comprises at least one sealant that is functionally connected to at least one opening. In a preferred embodiment, at least one sealant is selected from diaphragm valves, ball valves, slotted valves, pressure valves, self-draining peaks, traditional peaks, split peaks, screw caps, pull-off lids, snap-on lids, fliptop lids, vented lids, and combinations of these. The present invention also relates to a container comprising two or more compartments, wherein said two or more compartments form a structure; at least one opening with connection for fluids to said two or more compartments; at least one recess extending at least partially through the structure, and at least one handle operatively connected to the structure that crosses the recess and forms at least two openings. In one embodiment, the structure is made of plastic. In a preferred embodiment, the plastic is selected from the group comprising high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate and mixtures thereof. In a more preferred embodiment, the plastic is high density polyethylene. In one embodiment, said two or more compartments have a volume of about 10 mL to about 5000 mL. In another embodiment, at least one handle is at least partially hollow. In a preferred embodiment, at least one handle is in continuous communication with one or more compartments. In a more preferred embodiment, the location of at least one handle comprises the center of gravity. In one embodiment, the container is formed by blow molding. In another embodiment, the container is formed of a piece of plastic. In yet another embodiment, at least one opening is divided by a partition. In one embodiment, the container further comprises at least one sealant that is connected to at least one opening. In a preferred embodiment, at least one sealant is selected from diaphragm valves, ball valves, slotted valves, pressure valves, self-draining peaks, traditional peaks, split peaks, screw caps, pull-off lids, snap-on lids, fliptop lids, vented lids, and combinations of these. The present invention further relates to a container comprising two compartments, wherein said two compartments form a structure; at least one opening with connection for fluids to said two compartments; at least one recess extending at least partially through the structure; and at least one handle functionally connected to the structure that crosses the gap and forms at least two openings. In one embodiment, the structure is made of plastic. In a preferred embodiment, the plastic is selected from the group comprising high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and mixtures thereof. In a more preferred embodiment, the plastic is high density polyethylene. In one embodiment, the two or more compartments have a volume of about 10 mL to about 5000 mL. In another embodiment, at least one handle is at least partially hollow. In a preferred embodiment, at least one handle is in continuous communication with one or more compartments. In a more preferred embodiment, the location of at least one handle comprises the center of gravity. In one embodiment, the container is formed by blow molding. In another embodiment, the container is formed of a piece of plastic. In yet another embodiment, at least one opening is divided by a partition. In one embodiment, at least the sealant is connected to at least one opening. In another embodiment, said at least one sealant is selected from diaphragm valves, ball valves, slotted valves, pressure valves, self-draining peaks, traditional peaks, split peaks, screw caps, pull caps, - lids to fit , fliptop lids, vented lids, and combinations of these. The present invention further relates to a container comprising one or more compartments, wherein said one or more compartments form a structure; at least one opening with connection for fluids to said one or more compartments; at least one formed hollow extending at least partially through the structure, and at least one handle functionally connected to the structure that crosses the hollow, wherein the projection of the handle through hollow divides the latter into at least two openings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Figure 1 of the figures is a front view illustrating a modality of the container with double compartments. Figure 2 of the figures is a view of the base illustrating one embodiment of the container with double compartments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Although the specification concludes with the claims that particularly state and clearly claim the invention, it is believed that the present invention will be better understood from the following description. All documents cited herein are incorporated, in their relevant parts, as a reference; The mention of any document should not be construed as an admission that it is a prior industry with respect to the present invention. The compositions of the present invention can include, consist essentially of, or consist of the components of the present invention as well as other ingredients described herein. As used herein, the term "consists essentially of" refers to the fact that the composition or component may include additional ingredients, but only if these do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed compositions or methods. All percentages and proportions used herein are by weight of the total composition and all measurements were made at 25 ° C, unless otherwise indicated. All measurements used herein are expressed in metric units, unless otherwise specified. Surprisingly, it has now been proven that the container having one or more compartments can be manufactured at low cost, while maintaining the characteristics of being easy to handle and pour, as well as distributing the contents inside the container according to a relationship practically fixed. Moreover, the container is formed in such a way that the scale can be easily graduated to suit different internal volumes. The present invention also solves these problems by the discovery of a container comprising one or more compartments, wherein said one or more compartments form a structure; at least one opening with connection for fluids to one or more compartments; at least one recess extending at least partially through the structure; and at least one handle functionally connected to the structure that crosses the gap and forms at least two openings. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that the handle, the recess, the location of the handle and the recess inside the container, as well as the weight of the container act synergistically to produce a container that is easy to handle and pour. The handle, the hollow, the location of the handle and the hollow inside the container, as well as the weight of the container are located in such a way that the handle is located near or practically at the center of gravity of the container. This location of the handle, together with the location of the recess inside the container and the weight of the container create a "point of support effect" under which the container can be rotated about an axis passing through or near the handle and / or the hole. This support effect results in an improved capacity for the container, resulting in an improved pour. As used herein, "container" refers to any hollow or partially hollow container having one or more compartments and is "capable of containing a composition for an indefinite period." The container must stand on its own; rigid, flexible and malleable, be a malleable bag, a malleable sachet, a "pocket" or small malleable bag, and combinations of these forms.A preferred form is a container that stands on its own and has an opening for pouring or dispensing the compositions of the container by the effect of gravity The container is especially suitable for dispensing a plurality of doses of a liquid composition composed of two or multiple parts or another fluid composition.The container should preferably be able to open and close repeatedly through the opening, however, you can also use the containers that can only be opened once and can not be sealed again. entity.

Compartments The compartment can have any shape or size capable of containing a composition for an indefinite period. The dimensions of the compartments can vary depending on the final use, and the size and shape of the compartments can be modified to incorporate different dimensions and characteristics. Anyone with experience in the industry would easily perceive how to modify the compartments for a particular use. In one embodiment, the compartment has a volume ranging from about 10 mL to about 5000 mL, preferably from about 100 mL to about 4000 mL, more preferably from about 500 mL to about 3000 mL, even more preferably about 750 mL at approximately 2250 mL. In a second embodiment, the containers of the present invention are used for materials that are sold in large volumes, such as for "membership stores" or "discount stores". In such large-volume mode, the compartment volume is at least about 500 mL, preferably at least about 1000 mL, more preferably at least about 2000 mL, and even more preferably at least about 5000 mL. The container of the present invention can accommodate any fluid, including liquefiable solids (solid particles small enough to pour as a fluid, said particles generally having a diameter of less than about 2.6 cm). Anyone with experience in the industry would easily perceive how to modify the shape, size, materials and other properties of one or more compartments of the container to contain any fluid. The relative dimensions of the compartments within the container may also vary. For example, in the embodiment of the double compartment, although two compartments of the same dimension can be used, modalities in which the compartments have different dimensions are also contemplated. For example in a dual compartment mode, one compartment of the container is capable of containing 2500 mL of a composition, while the second compartment of the container is capable of containing 500 mL of a composition. In a double compartment mode where an even distribution is desired, the compartments and the opening or openings are similar in size, shape and cross section. Also, the cross-section of the container can have a significant impact on the ability of the consumer to deliver the compositions of the dual compartments with accuracy, according to a ratio of 1: 1. Without being limited by theory, it is estimated that certain cross sections reduce the user's tendency to rotate the container during pouring. Generally, the forms that provide the most consistency and dispatch accurately include those that have smooth, rounded surfaces such as ovals, ellipses and rounded pyramids. Surprisingly, however, containers having circular cross sections exhibit dispatch characteristics of less consistency and precision. The shapes of the containers having straight side walls such as rectangles, triangles and diamond shapes also present dispatch characteristics of less consistency and precision. While containers with circular cross sections and container shapes with straight side walls are not ideal, the present invention contemplates their use. In a preferred embodiment, the compartment or compartments are curved and have a shape such that they allow optimum drainage with a minimum of residence time within the container. One way to achieve such a shape is by bending or bending at least the inner surface of the container compartment such that the material inside the container is directed out of the container opening. Those with industry experience will readily perceive how to shape the container and / or compartment or compartments to facilitate such drainage characteristics. Hollow At least one hole is formed but not partially through the structure formed by said one or more compartments of the container. The hollow of the present invention provides an open volume in which a handle that intersects the hollow can be manipulated. Preferably, the hollow has a size and shape such that it is possible to manipulate the handle that is crossed with the hollow with one hand. The gap can be of any size and volume that allows the user to manipulate the handle in its space. The gap preferably has a volume, excluding the handle, which varies from about 50 cm3 to about 2000 cm3, preferably from about 100 cm3 to about 1000 cm3-; more preferably from about 150 cm3 to about 500 cm3; even more preferably from about 190 cm3 to about 300 cm3. Optionally, the gap extends completely through the structure in at least one direction. In one embodiment, the location of the gap comprises the center of gravity of the container. Without intending to be limited by theory, the gap provides a space to locate the handle, as well as the space necessary for a human being, an animal or a machine to manipulate the handle of the container. While the gap in one embodiment extends completely through the structure, in another embodiment the gap extends at least partially through said structure. The recess may be partially blocked by a label, one or more compartments of the invention, a portion for blocking the recess positioned in such a way that it can be removed, and the like. Without intending to be restricted by theory, the partial blockage of the hole on one side prompts the user to manipulate the container by the handle. In the present invention, the handle extending through the gap forms at least two openings. These openings provide areas to hold and manipulate the handle. Preferably, at least one of these. Openings is large enough for the hand of a human being. In one embodiment, the openings of the present invention are of equal size and shape. In another embodiment, the openings are of different size and shape. At least one opening of the present invention has an area ranging from about 1 cm2 to about 10 cm2, preferably from about 2 cm2 to about 8 cm2, more preferably from about 3 cm2 to about 7 cm2. In one embodiment, the handle intersects the recess wherein the projection of the handle through the recess divides said recess into at least two openings. The projection of the handle through the hole is a two-dimensional shadow that would be formed on a surface by a light that shines through the hole, where the handle, the compartments, etc., are not transparent to the effects of the projection and form a shaded region. For the purposes of a projection in modalities where the gap extends only partially through the structure; the portions that block the hole are transparent to such effects of the projection. In this way, the handles that curve out of the plane of the container still form a shadow of the projection such that the handle divides the gap into at least two openings. Handle The handle of the present invention is functionally connected to the structure formed by said one or more compartments of the container. The handle of the present invention is connected in such a way as to allow manipulation by a human being, an animal or a machine. The handle may be functionally connected to the structure formed by one or more compartments of the container by any method known in the industry. Such methods include molding, co-molding, welding, grafting, gluing, screwing, nailing, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the handle is co-molded with said one or more compartments of the container. By having the handle functionally connected to the structure that intersects the hollow, the balance and the pouring capacity of the container improve markedly. The preferred location of at least one handle comprises at least the center of gravity of the container. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that the improved equilibrium and pouring capacity of the container having at least one handle and encompassing at least the center of gravity of the container are derived from the proximity of the handle to the center of gravity of said container. The forces acting on the container and the compositions therein are distributed more evenly around the handle, which decreases the effort required to maneuver the container and minimize the force necessary for it to be manipulated by a human being or a device. In a modality having two or more compartments and one or more openings of similar size and shapes, the handle of the present invention is functionally connected to the structure formed by the two or more compartments of the container such that when at least one handle for pouring rheologically similar compositions (viscosity within about ± 15%) of the container, the compositions within one or more compartments of the container are released in accordance with a volumetric ratio ranging from about 1.25 to 1 and from about 1 to 1.25. In one embodiment, the handle of the container is at least partially hollow. In one embodiment, the handle is connected for fluid to pass into the compartment. The interior of a at least partially hollow handle can function as part of the compartment. The at least partially hollow handle provides a greater storage volume to the compartment by allowing the compositions in one or more compartments to have the additional storage capacity of the at least partially hollow handle. In a dual-compartment embodiment, the at least partially hollow handle can be divided such that each compartment experiences an increase in total volume by incorporating portions of the at least partially hollow handle volume. The internal volume of at least one handle in this embodiment is separated in such a way that it prevents any of the compositions from mixing with each other in the compartments or at least partially hollow handle. In another embodiment, at least one container handle does not have a fluid connection to the compartment. At least one handle of this embodiment can be solid, at least partially hollow, or totally hollow. When the handle is solid, it is preferably made of a single material. When the handle is at least partially hollow or totally hollow, the hollow area within at least one handle is preferably filled with a gas, such as air, nitrogen, and the like. The hollow area within at least one handle can also be filled with a colored liquid, a colorless liquid or be constituted by at least a partial vacuum. In one embodiment, the handle can be observed at least partially from the front, back and sides of the container. It is believed that such a handle easily communicates to the consumer the location and orientation of the handle, thereby improving the capacity of use of the bottle as well as the general experience of the consumer. Opening and sealant At least one or more openings have connection for fluids to one or more compartments. At least one or more openings function in such a way as to allow compositions within one or more compartments to exit one or more compartments and / or the container. In one embodiment, each individual compartment has an opening. This configuration allows greater control of the amount of composition that is released from one or more compartments. In a preferred embodiment, one or more compartments have an opening divided by a partition. The partition divided by a partition effectively channels the various compositions in one or more containers out of an opening while preferably keeping the compositions separated until they leave the container. The opening divided by a partition gives the ability to pour compositions from more than one compartment out of a single opening. This is achieved by placing a partition in the opening such that it does not allow the compositions in the various compartments to mix in the opening. Generally, an opening divided by a partition may be covered by a sealant that will not only be sealed with the sealant but also with the septum, in such a way that a sealant is provided that prevents loss of the container as well as contamination by losses of the compartments between yes. Optionally, the partition extends from the opening through the container to further delineate the separation of the compartments. Pollution is of the utmost importance, since it is foreseen, that the contents of the various compartments may be incompatible or tend to degrade or to react with each other. Any loss from one compartment to the other should be avoided. Moreover, unless a mixing compartment or chamber is integrated in said container, the fluid compositions should not come in contact with each other until they are dispensed from the bottle. Optionally, a sealant is functionally connected to the opening. The sealant seals, closes and / or locks the compositions within the container. Any type of sealant known in the industry can be used with the container. Such sealants include, but are not limited to, diaphragm valves, ball valves, slotted valves, pressure valves, self-draining spikes, traditional spikes, split spikes, screw caps, pull caps, snap-on caps, fliptop caps, covers with ventilation, and combinations of these. The sealants of the present invention maintain at least about 90%, preferably at least about 95%, and most preferably at least about 99% of the volume of the container when the sealants are operated. In one embodiment of two or more compartments, the sealant is preferably connected to the opening in such a way that it urges the user to orient the container in a particular direction. In a preferred double-compartment embodiment, the sealant is connected to the opening in such a way that it urges the user to orient the container so that the material that is poured from the double-compartment container exits according to an established ratio, preferably from about 1.5 to 1 to about 1 to 1.5, more preferably from about 1.25 to about 1 to 1.25, still more preferably from about 1.1 to 1 to about 1 to 1.1. For example, a fliptop lid can be attached to the opening of the container. In the open position, the lid of the fliptop lid is positioned in such a way that the user would be forced to orient the bottle in a particular direction to pour in such a way as not to cause the material to pour on the lid. In an embodiment of two or more compartments, the two or more compartments must have the ability to seal practically simultaneously. In such an embodiment, the actuation of a sealant seals, closes and / or locks the compositions within the two or more compartments. In another embodiment of two or more compartments, the sealant is capable of releasing one material at a time. In this embodiment, each compartment can be sealed independently, which allows materials to be released from any combination of containers at a time, while keeping any combination of containers sealed. By incorporating such a system, the user is free to dose the compositions contained within containers with two or more compartments.

Materials The container of the present invention can be made with any material known to those with experience in the industry, which is capable of maintaining the compositions in place for an indefinite period. Although soft, non-rigid materials can be used, materials with sufficient rigidity are preferred to remain practically upright. Such materials include, but are not limited to, metals, woods, plastics, ceramics, and combinations thereof. Especially plastics are preferred. Preferably, the plastics include thermoformed plastics and thermoset plastics. Such plastics include, but are not limited to, high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and mixtures thereof. In the same way, the materials can be processed in a single layer or multiple layers. Since a variety of different materials can be used to manufacture the containers of the present invention, the selected materials must be based on the intended end use and the characteristics required for the container in question. Those with knowledge in the industry will quickly perceive that the material used to make the container can have a wide range of colors and tones. Those with regular knowledge of the industry will know immediately how to color and process the materials to make the container in order to achieve color variations, as well as the degrees of transparency, including whether it is crystalline, translucent or opaque.

In one embodiment, the double-compartment package of the present invention may have two opaque color compartments, which are visually different from one another by color variation. Such a combination serves to further distinguish that the individual compartments of the double-compartment container house different compositions. In another embodiment, the container of the present invention is designed to be refillable. In such an embodiment, the container is not discarded with the use of all the compositions of its contents. After the use of these compositions, the container is filled with similar or different compositions, in accordance with the intended use. In yet another embodiment, it is conceived that the container of the present invention can be used with a label for electronic recognition systems. These labels, as used in the industry, are used for various activities including identification, price, communication with a central database, communication with a centralized source for filling as well as for other purposes and the like. The formation of the container will vary according to the material selected for the container. In one embodiment, the container of the present invention is formed of a plastic. An illustrative way to form the plastic is blow molding. Surprisingly, the containers of the present invention can be formed by blow molding in one step instead of, for example, first forming a portion and then transforming it into an additional "reforming" step. By blow molding in one step, the containers can be formed at a reduced cost and with the minimum ideal amount of process operations. The container of the present invention has proven to be easy and simple to produce as a container of equivalent size without the handle of the present invention, and at the same time without increasing the material and the processing time. Without intending to be restricted by theory, it is believed that the handle of the present invention is created by the effective use of variations of the pins and molds for blow molding. Form the containers by blow molding in a single step eliminates the addition of insertion of additional pieces or the gluing of the compartments together, all that represents steps of assembly and consumption of additional materials. More specifically, the container can be manufactured by simply adapting the ordinary manufacturing methods described in copending patent no. WO 02/22467 incorporated herein by reference; notably, the container can be blow molded in a single manufacturing step employing blow molding with conventional shuttle or wheel so that the container can incorporate a sealant. By means of blow molding in a single manufacturing step, the container can be blow molded without the need to reform and heat. While blow molding can be used to produce the container of the present invention, other methods can also be used, including other variants of blow molding. For example, the methods described in U.S. Pat. num. 5,882,574 and 5,928,681.

The container, by its form and general design, serves for diverse particular applications. In one embodiment, the container is packaged with at least one different product that can be separated from it. Preferably, such a product should be placed between the gap and the container. The product may be any product capable of being packaged within the container recess. For example, in a dual compartment mode, the compartment contains a third composition that is administered consecutively or concurrently. In another embodiment, the opening or the sealant of the container is adapted to install a dosing implement. A dosing implement is any device capable of containing a composition to release it-at a selected time or condition. In such an embodiment, the composition or compositions contained within the container are partially or fully transferred to the dispensing implement. Then, the dosing implement is configured to release the composition or compositions at a selected time or condition. As a non-restrictive example, a double-compartment container is adapted to contain both detergent and fabric softener. The detergent and fabric softener compositions are transferred to the dispensing implement. The dosing implement is then placed in an automatic washing machine where the detergent is released in the wash cycle, and the fabric softener in the rinse cycle. In yet another embodiment, the container of the present invention contains communication instructions with the user. The instructions may be printed directly on the container or may be placed on it in the form of a label. Those with knowledge in the industry will immediately know how to print instructions on a container made of a particular material. Likewise, those with regular industry knowledge will immediately know how to attach or affix a label to the container. In a preferred embodiment, the label extends around the circumference of the container. Composition for washing clothes One embodiment for use herein comprises dual component laundry washing compositions that simultaneously provide or provide more than one laundry washing benefit. The "laundry benefits" in general include cleaning the fabric and taking care of the fabric of consumer garments or finished textile items. For example one component can provide cleaning benefits, while the second component provides bleaching and / or softening benefits. In another embodiment for use herein, laundry compositions containing double components that provide a double benefit are employed. For example one component may provide cleaning benefits, while the second component provides bleaching or softening benefits. - In yet another embodiment, are dual compartment compositions having a first component wherein the first and second components are physically or chemically incompatible with each other and / or wherein the first and second components provide a foaming reaction when combined.

Laundry laundry compositions herein more specifically include heavy-duty laundry detergents (HDL), liquid detergents for laundry with bleach and / or bleach catalyst, compositions containing a component for the care of the fabric (for example an active softener, protector of the color, protector of the fabric and / or anti-wrinkle), compositions containing a component for the treatment of the fabric, liquid detergents containing a component for the care of the fabric, and the like. For examples of laundry detergent compositions and components thereof, see the publication Liquid Detergents, Vol. 67 Surfactant Science Series, edited by K. Y. Lai, published by Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1997. See in particular, chapter 8 on heavy-duty liquid detergents from page 261 to page 324 and the references cited therein. "Fabric cleaning" includes the benefits of the use of surfactants and / or detergents and may involve any known mechanism, such as reducing interfacial tension and / or collecting and emulsifying oily dirt and / or suspending dirt and / or anti-redeposition of dirt in the presence of surfactants optionally with polymers and / or electrolytes. The hydrolysis and / or depolymerization of the dirt may be involved, as is usual with detersive enzymes such as common hydrolases, more specifically including proteases, amylases, lipases and mixtures thereof. Dirt can vary widely and can include localized markings or spots, frequently very colored, grayish coloration or more generalized discoloration, oily marks, skin residues, the presence of smudged or clayey dirt and the like. "Fabric cleaning" in common laundry detergents includes the action of cleaning detergent ingredients such as the aforementioned surfactants, polymers and enzymes, as well as the action of bleaches, chelating agents and other ingredients. cleaning additives. "Fabric care" includes softening, anti-wrinkle, shape retention, anti-shrinkage, ease of ironing, prevention of dye transfer (or bleeding), color brightening, color rejuvenation, the prevention of abrasion of fabrics and other similar benefits that differ from the cleaning benefits in that the benefits for the care of the fabric maintain or add to the appearance, the aesthetic or physical properties of the fabrics without the existence of an element required to involve dirt. Sometimes the benefits of fabric care can be obtained through the inverse of cleaning, for example by depositing materials on the fabrics instead of removing them. In general, any combination of laundry ingredients, especially any combination of ingredients having different chemical structures or functions, may be able to provide different measurable benefits in the washing of the fabric. In one embodiment for use herein are compositions capable of providing at least two distinct benefits. As used herein, "distinct benefits" refers to selected benefits of bleaching or removal of stains, cleaning benefits, bleaching benefits, fabric care benefits and combinations of these, which are perceptible by the consumer (including, but not limited to). not limited to, what is perceptible in the standard tests of the textile institutes); preferably they involve a technical challenge. More preferably, "distinct benefits" are benefits that are difficult to achieve simply by mixing the combination of ingredients in a liquid unit cleaning product. Examples of preferred assemblies of at least two distinct benefits include: (a) simultaneously providing cleaning that is typical of an anionic detergent surfactant such as a linear sodium alkylbenzene sulphonate and fabric care that is typical of a fabric esterquat softener; (b) simultaneously providing cleaning that is typical of an enzymatic detergent such as one containing a protease, as well as cleaning which is typical of an enzyme reactive bleach, such as a peroxy acid bleach, including N, N-phthaloylaminoperoxycaproic acid. An example of a set of two distinct laundry benefits is to include a typical heavy-duty liquid detergent, or at least one surfactant and / or an enzyme in one compartment, and in the other compartment to include any chemicals for textile treatment. that under normal circumstances it would be considered chemically reactive with the contents of the first compartment or otherwise incompatible. These ingredients include all kinds of textile finishes, softeners, anti-shrinkage agents, color and fabric protection agents and the like, which are chemically reactive (especially with respect to textile fibers) and / or would normally be applied to fabrics. fabrics in textile finishing instead of laundry operations. Also available are dual compartment compositions having a first component wherein the first and second components are physically or chemically incompatible with each other and / or where the first and second components provide a foaming reaction when combined. For examples of dual-component compositions for laundry, see published PCT application WO 01/00765, DeBuzzacarini et al., Published on January 4, 2001, and see published PCT application WO 02/22772 of DeBuzzacarini et al. col., published March 21, 2002. For other examples of dual component laundry compositions, see U.S. patent application Ser. no. 10 / 679,578 to Scialla et al., Filed October 6, 2003, as well as the US patent application. no. 10 / 679,579 to Scialla et al., Filed October 6, 2003. Preferred laundry products herein are capable of providing at least two distinct laundry benefits and include a two-component composition for laundry. washing clothes, preferably having a fluid, packaged form, located or contained within a double compartment package, wherein a first component, preferably a fluid composition, is located within a first compartment, and a second component , also preferably a fluid composition, is located within a second compartment of the container. In this case the first composition can be for example a fully formulated heavy-duty liquid detergent (preferably a laundry detergent) without bleach and comprises at least one cleaning surfactant, and the second preferably includes a bleach, activator of bleach, bleach catalyst, bleach enhancer, or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the second component comprises an ingredient for the care of the fabric, more preferably that is free of cleaning ingredients. For a partially formulated bleach or a bleach catalyst in a fluid form, no other component than the bleach or bleach catalyst and a suitable solvent or suspending medium is required. In another suitable case the first fluid component can be a liquid laundry detergent that does not contain an esterquat softening agent or a silicone, while the second fluid component can be a fabric care composition comprising an esterquat softening agent and / or a commercially available silicone with a solvent or suspending medium so that the composition or component for the care of the fabric or component is fluid. The formulation of liquid laundry detergents, fabric softening agents, bleaches, and the like are well known in the industry.

Example A preferred container is illustrated in appended Figures 1-2. Figure 1 illustrates a double compartment container 2 having a first compartment 4 and a second compartment 6 separated by a partition 16. The partition 16 divides the total length of the double compartment container 2, isolating the compositions in the first compartment 4 of the second compartment 6. The handle 8 is made of a first handle portion 12 and a second handle portion 10. The first handle portion 12 is in continuous communication with the first compartment 4, and the second handle portion 10 is in continuous communication with the second compartment 6. The first handle portion 12 and the second handle portion 10 are also separated by a partition 16; the partition 16 also prevents any continuous communication between the first handle portion 12 and the second handle portion 10. The handle 8 divides the recess 22 forming a first opening 24 and a second opening 26. The unit opening 14 is in continuous communication with the first compartment 4 and the second compartment 6. In Figure 2, the relationship between the unit opening 14 and the double compartment container 2 is more easily determined. The unit opening 14 is separated with a partition 16 to form a first opening volume 18 and a second opening volume 20. The first opening volume 18 is in continuous communication with the first compartment 4, and the second opening volume 20 is in continuous communication with the second compartment 6. While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the industry that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It has been intended, therefore, to include in the appended claims all changes and modifications within the scope of the invention.

Claims (41)

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS

1. A container comprising: one or more compartments, wherein one or more compartments form a structure; at least one opening has connection for fluids to one or more compartments; at least one recess is formed that extends at least partially through the structure, and at least one handle functionally connected to the structure intersects the recess and forms at least two openings.

2. The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that the structure is made of a plastic.

3. The container according to claim 2, further characterized in that the plastic is selected from the group comprising high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and mixtures thereof.

4. The container according to claim 3, further characterized in that the plastic is high density polyethylene.

The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that one or more compartments have a volume ranging from about 10 mL to about 5000 mL.

6. The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that at least one handle is at least partially hollow.

The container according to claim 6, further characterized in that at least one handle is in continuous communication with the one or more compartments.

The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that the preferred location of the at least one handle comprises at least the center of gravity.

9. The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that it is formed by blow molding.

10. The package according to claim 1, further characterized in that the package is formed of a piece of plastic.

The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that it further comprises at least one sealant functionally connected to at least one opening.

The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that at least one sealant is selected from diaphragm valves, ball valves, slotted valves, pressure valves, self-draining peaks, traditional peaks, split peaks, screw caps , pull-off lids, snap-on lids, fliptop lids, vented lids, and combinations of these.

13. A package comprising: two or more compartments wherein the two or more compartments form a structure; at least one recess is formed that extends at least partially through the structure, and at least one handle functionally connected to the structure intersects the recess and forms at least two openings.

14. The container according to claim 13, further characterized in that the structure is made of plastic.

15. The container according to claim 14, further characterized in that the plastic is selected from the group comprising high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and mixtures thereof.

16. The container according to claim 15, further characterized in that the plastic is high density polyethylene.

17. The container according to claim 13, further characterized in that the two or more compartments have a volume ranging from about 10 mL to about 5000 mL.

18. The container according to claim 13, further characterized in that at least one handle is at least partially hollow.

The container according to claim 18, further characterized in that at least one handle is in continuous communication with the one or more compartments.

20. The container according to claim 13, further characterized in that the preferred location of the at least one handle comprises at least the center of gravity.

21. The container according to claim 13, further characterized in that it is formed by blow molding.

22. The package according to claim 13, further characterized in that the package is formed of a piece of plastic.

The container according to claim 13, further characterized in that it also comprises at least one sealant connected to at least one opening.

24. The container according to claim 24, further characterized in that at least one sealant is selected from diaphragm valves, ball valves, slotted valves, pressure valves, self-draining peaks, traditional peaks, split peaks, plugs a thread, pull-off lids, snap-on lids, fliptop lids, vented lids, and combinations of these.

25. The container according to claim 13, further characterized in that at least one opening is divided by a partition.

26. A container comprising: two compartments, wherein the two compartments form a structure; at least one hollow is formed that extends at least partially through the structure, and at least one handle functionally connected to the structure that intersects the hollow and forms at least two openings.

27. The container according to claim 26, further characterized in that the structure is made of plastic.

28. The container according to claim 27, further characterized in that the plastic is selected from the group comprising high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and mixtures thereof.

29. The container according to claim 28, further characterized in that the plastic is high density polyethylene.

30. The container according to claim 26, further characterized in that the two or more compartments have a volume ranging from about 10 mL to about 5000 mL.

31. The container according to claim 26, further characterized in that at least one handle is at least partially hollow.

32. The container according to claim 31, further characterized in that at least one handle is in continuous communication with one or more compartments.

33. The container according to claim 26, further characterized in that the preferred location of the at least one handle comprises at least the center of gravity.

34. The container according to claim 26, further characterized in that it is formed by blow molding.

35. The package according to claim 26, further characterized in that the package is formed of a piece of plastic.

36. The container according to claim 26, further characterized in that it additionally comprises at least one sealant connected to at least one opening.

37. The container according to claim 36, further characterized in that at least one sealant is selected from diaphragm valves, ball valves, slotted valves, pressure valves, self-draining peaks, traditional peaks, split peaks, screw caps , pull-off lids, snap-on lids, fliptop lids, vented lids, and combinations of these.

38. The container according to claim 26, further characterized in that the at least one opening is divided by a partition.

39. A package comprising: one or more compartments wherein said one or more compartments form a structure; at least one opening has connection for fluids to one or more compartments; at least one hollow is formed that extends at least partially through the structure, and at least one handle functionally connected to the structure that intersects the hollow, wherein the projection of the handle through the hollow divides the hollow in at least two openings.

40. The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises a first compartment and a second compartment, wherein the first compartment contains a first composition comprising a high performance liquid detergent and a second compartment contains a second composition comprising a bleach peroxyacid.

41. The container according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises a first compartment and a second compartment, wherein the first compartment contains a first composition comprising a high performance liquid detergent composition and a second compartment containing a second composition. comprising a fabric softener.