US20100326848A1 - Clip Scoop - Google Patents

Clip Scoop Download PDF

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Publication number
US20100326848A1
US20100326848A1 US12/823,169 US82316910A US2010326848A1 US 20100326848 A1 US20100326848 A1 US 20100326848A1 US 82316910 A US82316910 A US 82316910A US 2010326848 A1 US2010326848 A1 US 2010326848A1
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US
United States
Prior art keywords
scoop
clip
handle
bowl
edge
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US12/823,169
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English (en)
Inventor
Raphael (Louis) Mangin
Wei Zhang
Guangyan Ding
Katy Saint-Ignan
Bin Chen
Yi Wei
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Procter and Gamble Co
Original Assignee
Procter and Gamble Co
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Procter and Gamble Co filed Critical Procter and Gamble Co
Priority to US12/823,169 priority Critical patent/US20100326848A1/en
Assigned to THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY reassignment THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CHEN, BIN, WEI, YI, ZHANG, WEI, DING, GUANGYAN, SAINT-IGNAN, KATY, MANGIN, RAPHAEL LOUIS
Publication of US20100326848A1 publication Critical patent/US20100326848A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D33/00—Details of, or accessories for, sacks or bags
    • B65D33/16—End- or aperture-closing arrangements or devices
    • B65D33/1658—Elements for flattening or folding the mouth portion
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
    • B65D77/22—Details
    • B65D77/24—Inserts or accessories added or incorporated during filling of containers
    • B65D77/245—Utensils for removing the contents from the package, e.g. spoons, forks, spatulas
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F19/00—Calibrated capacity measures for fluids or fluent solid material, e.g. measuring cups
    • G01F19/002—Measuring spoons or scoops

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a clip scoop for dosing products and fastening to a flexible package.
  • Scoops have been used in various fields. For example, scoops have been used in fabric and home care products such as detergents and fabric enhancers for dosing the correct amount.
  • Detergents are normally packed in a package such as cartons, hard plastic containers, and flexible packages. Flexible packages are useful in maintaining not only the freshness of the product stored, but also an aid in preventing moisture or air from entering the enclosed product.
  • a flexible package normally uses less material and costs less than a comparable carton or hard plastic container.
  • a scoop may be included with the product in the market.
  • Such a scoop is generally included with the product in a package such as a carton and a hard plastic container but the container is not typically a flexible package because such flexible containers are typically larger bags in which the scoop may be easily lost or buried therein. Accordingly, it is sometimes easy for a consumer to misplace or lose a scoop between uses. It may be especially difficult to find a scoop in a package when the consumer is again ready to use it, because the scoop can be buried in the product in between uses. Also, when a consumer retrieves the scoop buried in the product, the product may adhere to the hand. The consumer may dislike this because it feels messy.
  • the use of a clip may provide a closure mechanism to keep the products in the flexible package fresh without having to change the flexible package itself or the flexible package material.
  • the invention relates to a scoop having a bowl and a handle.
  • the bowl has a bowl edge and a bowl width.
  • the handle has a proximal handle edge connecting to the bowl edge.
  • the handle has a distal handle edge opposite the proximal handle edge.
  • the handle has a handle width.
  • the handle has a clip with a clip base which connects the clip base to the distal handle edge.
  • the clip protrudes from the distal handle edge toward the proximal handle edge.
  • the clip has a free edge opposite the clip base.
  • the handle width is at least about 50% of the bowl width.
  • the invention also relates to a kit having a flexible package containing a product therein, and a scoop as described above.
  • the clip can help the scoop be fastened to, for example, a flexible package.
  • the scoop of the present invention can be fastened to the external surface of the flexible package and the consumers may not need to return the scoop into the bag after use. Accordingly, the consumer can easily retrieve the scoop whenever it is needed with little chance of messiness.
  • the orientation of the clip with respect to the scoop may reduce the amount that the scoop protrudes from the package. This is especially useful in cases where the package is stored in a high-traffic area to reduce the chance that the scoop is knocked off of the package, and/or in a crammed area where there is little overhead space.
  • the large handle width of the scoop may help the scoop to securely connect to the bowl and resist bending when a large amount of solid is scooped.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a scoop of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the scoop of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 is a side view of the scoop of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the clip as seen along Line 4 - 4 in FIG. 2 ;
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a flexible package whose opening is folded and fastened by the scoop of the present invention
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the flexible package with the scoop of FIG. 5 seen from the opposite side;
  • FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the flexible package with the clip as seen along Line 7 - 7 in FIG. 6 ;
  • FIG. 8 is an embodiment of grippers protruding from the bottom surface of the clip
  • FIG. 9 is an embodiment of grippers protruding from the bottom surface of the clip.
  • FIG. 10 is an embodiment of grippers protruding from the upper surface of the handle.
  • FIG. 11 is a top view of the scoop of FIG. 1 .
  • the invention relates to a scoop having a bowl and a handle.
  • the bowl has a bowl edge and a bowl width.
  • the handle has a proximal handle edge connecting to the bowl edge, a distal handle edge opposite the proximal handle edge, and a handle width.
  • the handle has a clip with a clip base which connects the clip base to the distal handle edge. The clip protrudes from the distal handle edge toward the proximal handle edge.
  • the clip has a free edge opposite the clip base.
  • the handle width is at least about 50% of the bowl width.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a scoop of the present invention.
  • the scoop, 20 has a bowl, 21 , with a bowl edge, 22 .
  • the bowl, 21 has a bowl bottom, 24 .
  • the bowl, 21 has a bowl front wall, 25 , connected to the bowl bottom, 24 .
  • the bowl, 21 has a first bowl sidewall, 26 , connected to the bowl bottom, 24 , and the bowl front wall, 25 .
  • the bowl, 21 has a second bowl sidewall, 27 , opposed to the first bowl sidewall, 26 , and connected to the bowl bottom, 24 , and the bowl front wall, 25 .
  • the bowl, 21 has a bowl back wall, 28 , opposed to the bowl front wall, 25 , and connected to the bowl bottom, 24 , the first bowl sidewall, 26 , and the second bowl sidewall, 27 .
  • the bowl front wall, 25 , the first bowl sidewall, 26 , the second bowl sidewall, 27 , and the bowl back wall, 28 start at the bowl bottom, 24 , and terminate at a bowl top edge, 29 .
  • the scoop, 20 extends in a top side, T, and in a bottom side, B.
  • the bowl top edge, 29 faces the top side, T.
  • the handle, 30 has a proximal handle edge, 31 .
  • the handle, 30 has a distal handle edge, 32 , opposite the proximal handle edge, 31 .
  • the handle, 30 has a first side arm, 33 , and a second side arm, 34 , typically but not always substantially parallel to the first side arm, 33 , both of which extend perpendicular to the bowl, 21 in FIG. 1 .
  • the first side arm, 33 , and the second side arm, 34 start at the proximal handle edge, 31 , and join together and terminate at the distal handle edge, 32 .
  • the handle, 30 has a void, 35 .
  • the void, 35 is surrounded by the proximal handle edge, 31 , the distal handle edge, 32 , the first side arm, 33 , and the second side arm, 34 .
  • the handle, 30 has a clip, 40 therein.
  • the clip, 40 protrudes from the distal handle edge, 32 , toward the proximal handle edge, 31 .
  • the clip, 40 has a clip base, 41 , connecting to the handle, 30 , and a free edge, 42 .
  • the clip, 40 typically has an undulation, 43 , extending from the clip base, 41 , toward the free edge, 42 .
  • the clip, 40 together with the handle side arms, 33 and 34 , may serve as a fastening device when the scoop, 20 , is fastened to a flexible package.
  • the scoop does not need an extra material or device in order to fasten to the flexible package.
  • the clip protrudes from the distal handle edge toward the proximal handle edge and the bowl, when the scoop is fastened to the flexible package, the clip, the handle side arms and the bowl top edge may contact the external surface of the flexible package. It leads to increased stability of contact (see FIG. 6 ).
  • the phrase “protrudes from the distal handle edge toward the proximal handle edge” indicates that the clip, 40 , extends from the distal handle edge, 32 , generally towards the bowl, 21 (see also, FIG. 11 .).
  • the clip, 40 has an undulation, 43 , extending from the clip base, 41 , toward the free edge, 42 .
  • the undulation, 43 has a convex, 52 , adjacent to the clip base, 41 .
  • the clip, 40 has a concave, 56 , between the convex, 52 , and the free edge, 42 .
  • the undulation provides both a fastening force on the flexible material as well as a small space where the rolled up flexible material may be held by the clip. This undulation also reduces the chance that the clip will inadvertently fall or fly off of the flexible package during storage. It has been found that this type of undulation holds the scoop onto a flexible package significantly better than a straight clip, as the clip's force is not translated into as much lateral movement/force during storage, and/or when the flexible material is bunched up underneath the clip.
  • the clip, 40 has a top surface, 46 , and a bottom surface, 47 , on the opposite side of the top surface, 46 .
  • the top surface, 46 is on the top side, T, of the scoop, 20 while the bottom surface, 47 , is on the bottom side, B, of the scoop, 20 .
  • the convex, 52 is obliquely ascended in a top side direction from the clip base, 41 .
  • the concave, 56 is obliquely descended in a bottom side direction from the convex, 52 .
  • the free edge, 42 is again obliquely ascended in a top side direction from the concave, 56 .
  • On the bottom side, B, of the convex, 52 there is a reservoir space, 58 .
  • the shape of the undulation, 43 , on the top surface, 46 is also quite ergonomic in that it encourages a consumer to comfortably put his/her thumb on it and to hold the clip with the palm of the hand when the consumer dispenses the product using the scoop. This in turn provides a leverage point which makes scooping easier and reduces finger and wrist strain as compared to when a clip is held only by the fingertips.
  • the shape of the bottom surface, 47 , of the concave, 56 can serve as a fastening part to a flexible package when the scoop fastens the flexible package.
  • the bowl, 21 has optional measurement markings 70 , in the first bowl sidewall, 26 , the second bowl sidewall, 27 , and/or the bowl front wall, 25 .
  • the measurement markings, 70 can be used to enable the consumer to define the amount of the product to be used for different situations; e.g., for large laundry loads, for very dirty loads, etc.
  • the bowl, 21 may have one or more stacking tab, 72 , therein to allow easy stacking and unstacking of the scoops during manufacturing and/or storage.
  • the stacking tab, 72 may be located inside the bowl, 21 .
  • the bowl may have up to about 8 stacking tabs, from about 1 to about 6 tabs, or from about 2 to about 4 stacking tabs.
  • the stacking tab may be a small piece integrated with the bowl.
  • the stacking tab should be small enough not interfere with the dispensing effort and may be located protruding from the bowl bottom.
  • the stacking tab may have a height from about 3 mm to about 20 mm, from about 4 mm to about 15 mm, or from about 5 mm to about 10 mm.
  • the stacking tab may prevent sticking to the next one when a plurality of scoops is stacked together. It is especially important in the manufacturing process of the scoops because the manufactured scoops can be stacked in the manufacturing line.
  • a plurality of scoops may be stacked one after another when they are put into a package in the flexible package's filling process. The bottom of an upper scoop may be placed over the bottom of a lower scoop.
  • the stacking tab located inside the bowl may prevent sticking of two scoops because the stacking tab may provide a barrier so that the bottoms may not be contacted to each other.
  • the overflow volume of the bowl, 21 is typically from about 5 mL to about 450 mL, from about 20 mL to about 320 mL, or from about 30 mL to about 150 mL.
  • the overflow volume of the bowl, 21 can be measured by the maximum volume of water which can be stably held in the scoop.
  • the perimeter of the bowl top edge, 29 , of the scoop, 20 depicted in FIG. 1 , is approximately rectangular with rounded edge.
  • the perimeter of the bowl top edge, 29 viewed from the top side, T, may be approximately circular, approximately oval, approximately polygonal (e.g., triangle, quadrangle, pentagon, hexagon, etc.), etc. with sharp, or rounded corners as desired.
  • the scoop is included with granular detergent products in a flexible package.
  • a plurality of flexible packages can be stacked. Then the scoop included in the bottom flexible package may receive a heavy weight. Then the scoop inside the flexible package may tear the flexible package from inside.
  • a rounded corner shape may be gentle to the flexible package as the corner has less sharp edges.
  • a sharp cornered scoop may be preferable in order to match a certain package shape, and/or for greater structural rigidity.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a bottom view of the scoop of FIG. 1 .
  • the clip has a gripper, 60 , at or around the concave, 56 , of the clip, 40 .
  • the clip, 40 has three grippers, 60 , all of which are wavy lines.
  • the gripper has a height from the bottom surface, and it may be from about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm, from about 0.2 mm to about 3 mm, or from about 0.3 mm to about 2 mm.
  • the grippers, 60 are protruded from the bottom surface, 47 , of the clip, 40 , and have a height of about 0.5 mm.
  • the clip has at least one gripper on the bottom surface.
  • the gripper may be a rib, a line, and/or a dot, but it is not limited to them if the gripper protrudes out of the clip.
  • the clip may have from about 1 to about 20, from about 2 to 15 or from about 3 to about 10 grippers. The gripper increases the friction against the flexible package when the scoop is fastened thereto. This reduces accidental slipping of the clip and accidental opening of the package.
  • the bowl, 21 has a bowl width, W B .
  • the bowl width, W B is the largest distance between the first bowl sidewall, 26 , and the second bowl sidewall, 27 .
  • the handle, 30 has a handle width, W H .
  • the handle width, W H is the largest distance from the outer edge of the first sidearm, 33 , to the opposite outer edge of the second sidearm, 34 .
  • the bowl width, W B may be larger than the handle width, W H .
  • the handle width, W H is at least about 50%, from about 50% to about 150%, from about 60% to about 125%, or from about 70% to about 110% of the bowl width, W B . In the embodiment of FIG.
  • the handle width, W H is approximately 87% of the bowl width, W B
  • the scoop of the present invention may be more stable to hold, may be more resistant to bending under heavy loads, and may be easier to twist during use—as when using the scoop to dig or loosen up caked powder detergent from a bag.
  • the large handle width may serve to improve handling for consumers to grab and use the scoop easily, especially for older people whose hands may be arthritic.
  • Such an ergonomic, wider handle may also provide greater leverage when using the scoop which makes the entire use of the scoop more pleasant.
  • the handle may also have a minimum handle width, W MIN , which is the smallest width of the handle.
  • W MIN is located in between the proximal handle edge, 31 , and the distal handle edge, 32 .
  • the minimum handle width, W MIN may be more than about 75%, from about 75% to about 99%, or from about 80% to about 95% of the handle width, W H .
  • W MIN a handle with a narrower minimum handle width is more ergonomic and comfortable to hold than a handle whose width is constant along the entire length.
  • the minimum handle width, W MIN gets too small, consumers may start to have structural issues which may lead to breaking, or unacceptable bending of the handle.
  • the minimum handle width, W MIN herein balances ergonomics and structural stability to achieve optimized results.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the scoop of FIG. 1 .
  • the free edge, 42 is obliquely ascended from the concave, 56 , to the top side, T.
  • the top of the free edge, 42 may be separated from the plane formed by the top side of the handle, 30 , by height, h, which may be from about 2 mm to about 10 mm, from about 2.5 mm to about 8 mm, or from about 3 mm to about 7 mm. This significantly improves the usability of the scoop, as it allows one-handed clipping of the scoop onto the flexible package by simply sliding the top side of the handle down along the flexible package until the clip engages and securely clips the flexible package. See also the discussion of FIG. 5 , below.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the clip, as seen along Line 4 - 4 in FIG. 2 .
  • the clip, 40 has a clip base, 41 , connecting to the handle, 30 , and a free edge, 42 .
  • the clip base, 41 connects to the distal handle edge, 32 .
  • the clip, 40 has an undulation, 43 , extending from the clip base, 41 , toward the free edge, 42 .
  • the undulation, 43 has a sinusoidal shape containing a convex, 52 , and a concave, 56 , adjacent to the convex, 52 .
  • the convex, 52 is located adjacent to the clip base, 41 .
  • FIG. 5 at 100 When a flexible package, see FIG. 5 at 100 , is inserted into the scoop, 20 , it is slid between the clip, 40 , and the handle, 30 .
  • the free edge, 42 is above the handle, 30 , and therefore a consumer can easily slide a flexible package (see FIG. 5 at 100 ) under the clip, 40 , with one hand, and have it held in place by the clip, 40 , the handle, 30 , and/or the grippers, 60 .
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a flexible package whose opening is folded and fastened by the scoop of the present invention.
  • a consumer first opens the flexible package, 100 , containing a product inside, a part of the flexible package, 100 , is cut or torn away to form an opening at the perimeter, 102 .
  • the opening is large enough to use the scoop, 20 , to remove some product out of the flexible package, 100 .
  • the open flexible package, 100 may need reclosing to avoid spillage of the product inside and/or to avoid, moisture or air entering the opened flexible package, 100 .
  • the scoop, 20 may especially be fastened to a flexible package, 100 , whose perimeter, 102 , is rolled or folded over itself, at least once, twice, three times or four times in order to reclose the flexible package, 100 .
  • the perimeter, 102 is folded over itself three times.
  • a flexible package, 100 is brought close to the free edge, 42 , and the folded perimeter, 102 , is thereafter guided into the undulation, 43 , below the bottom surface, 47 , by sliding the flexible package, 100 , toward the clip base, 41 , past the free edge (see FIG. 6 at 42 ), the concave (see FIG.
  • this clip design reduces slipping of the scoop off of the flexible package during storage.
  • the scoop, 20 is slid into the folded perimeter, 102 , it prevents the folded perimeter, 102 , from re-opening.
  • the width of the fold may typically be from about 3 mm to about 30 mm, from about 4 mm to about 25 mm, or from about 5 mm to about 20 mm.
  • the scoop, 20 By fastening the folded perimeter, 102 , below the convex, 52 , the scoop, 20 , is fastened to the flexible package, 100 , and the closed status of the folded perimeter, 102 , is maintained by the scoop, 20 .
  • the scoop herein reduces protruding of the scoop during this process be keeping the top side of the scoop against the flexible package.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 5 , viewed from the opposite direction to show the clip, 40 .
  • the folded perimeter, 102 is fastened by the clip, 40 , of the scoop, 20 .
  • the convex, 52 provides a reservoir space, 58 , to accommodate the folded perimeter, 102 .
  • the undulation may serve for better fixation of the scoop to the flexible package.
  • the clip base, 41 , and the concave, 56 holds shut the folded perimeter, 102 .
  • the clip, 40 protrudes from the distal handle edge, 32 , toward the proximal handle edge, 31 .
  • the bowl top edge, 29 may contact the flexible package, 100 , leading to an elevated contact surface of the scoop, 20 , and the flexible package, 100 .
  • the clip herein further serves to stabilize the fastening of the scoop to the flexible package.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the flexible package with the clip as seen along Line 7 - 7 in FIG. 6 .
  • the gripper, 60 may more securely fasten the clip, 40 , to the flexible package, 100 , by increasing the friction between the scoop, 20 , and the flexible package, 100 . This may help reduce and/or avoid slipping of the scoop, 20 , from the flexible package, 100 .
  • the scoop, 20 is slid into the folded perimeter, 102 , between the clip, 40 , and the handle, 30 .
  • the scoop, 20 may contact an edge of the folded perimeter, 102 , at the clip base, 41 .
  • the folded perimeter, 102 may be locked between the convex, 52 , and the handle, 30 . Consequently, the perimeter, 102 , of the flexible package, 100 , is firmly held ensuring that the flexible package, 100 , will not open or allow moisture and air to enter.
  • the flexibility of the clip, 40 makes it easy for a user to slide a part of a flexible package, 100 , into the reservoir space, 58 , between the clip, 40 , and the handle, 30 .
  • the clip, 40 has three grippers, 60 , protruding from the bottom surface, 47 .
  • the clip base, 41 may be reinforced to prevent or reduce breakage at this point. Since the clip, 40 , flexes the most at the clip base, 41 , this is where much of the stress and strain is focused during use and storage. Therefore, the clip base may be reinforced, by, for example, making this portion thicker, of a different material (e.g., more elastic, more rigid, etc. as desired), making this portion thinner, and/or adding additional structural elements to address the stresses focused on this point.
  • the clip base, 41 is from about 1% to about 100% thicker, or from about 5% to about 50%, or from about 7% to about 25% thicker than the adjoining portion of the clip, 40 . In an embodiment herein, the clip base, 41 , is from about 1% to about 100% thicker, or from about 5% to about 50%, or from about 7% to about 25% thicker than the adjoining portion of handle, 30 .
  • FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of grippers protruding from the bottom surface, 47 , of the clip, 40 .
  • the grippers, 160 , of FIG. 8 are three raised dots arranged in a line.
  • the grippers, 160 are located at the peak of the concave, 56 , in order to maximize friction with the flexible package, see FIG. 7 at 100 .
  • These grippers, 160 may reinforce the contact of the scoop with the flexible package and may prevent slippage.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of grippers protruding from the bottom surface, 47 , of the clip, 40 .
  • the grippers, 260 , of FIG. 9 are four lines.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of grippers protruding from the upper surface, 46 , of the handle, 30 .
  • the grippers, 360 , of FIG. 10 are raised dots and are located on the handle, 30 , across from the peak of the concave, 56 of the clip, 40 . When the scoop is slid into the flexible package, this gripper location may also increase the friction between the scoop and the flexible package.
  • FIG. 11 illustrates a top view of the scoop of FIG. 1 .
  • the clip, 40 may be formed so that the clip orientation crosses a space above the bowl, 21 . More specifically, the clip, 40 , has an imaginary clip center line, L 1 , connecting the center of the free edge, 42 , and the center of the clip base, 41 . The imaginary center line, L 1 , may cross a space above the bowl, 21 . This configuration can help the scoop, 20 , better fasten to the flexible package because a large amount of the bowl top edge, 29 , may contact the flexible package.
  • the clip, 40 extends directly towards the bowl, 21 , and is substantially perpendicular thereto.
  • the scoop, 20 extends in a horizontal line, L H , and in a vertical line, L V , perpendicular to the horizontal line, L H .
  • the clip center line, L 1 is perpendicular to the vertical line, L V .
  • it is believed that such a perpendicular scoop may allow the most gripping, as the bowl top edge and the handle may exert the most friction on the flexible package so as to reduce slippage therefrom when the scoop is clipped thereupon.
  • the clip, 40 extends towards the bowl, 21 , but is offset at a minor angle of from less than about +/ ⁇ 15°, less than about +/ ⁇ 10°, or less than about +/ ⁇ 7° from the perpendicular.
  • the imaginary center line, L 1 may also be offset from perpendicular to the bowl edge. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that such a small angle may allow easier one-handed clipping and may be customized for either left or right-handed use.
  • the grippers may be located on either the clip or on the handle as desired, so that the grippers can contact the flexible bag and keep it from slippage.
  • the friction between the scoop and the flexible package may be increased by increasing the coefficient of friction therebetween, such as by modifying the scoop's surface finish and or by modifying the surface material of the clip and/or the handle.
  • at least a part of the flexible package may be coated by a material having a higher coefficient of friction than the unmodified flexible package, such as by adding rubber, a paraffin, a cellophane, etc. and may be added by a variety of processes known in the plastic-making art.
  • the gripper is made from rubber which is co-injection-molded into the scoop itself.
  • the surface material and/or the coating material may be selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene and polyesters.
  • the scoop herein may be fastened to a flexible package, and especially can maintain the rolled or folded shape of the perimeter of a flexible package. After opening the flexible package, the scoop can be fastened to the external surface of the flexible package. Thus, the consumers can take the scoop off the package and use it easily without putting the hand into the flexible package for the scoop inside.
  • the clip may have a length from the clip base to the free edge, where the length is from about 2 cm to about 10 cm, from about 3 cm to about 9 cm, or from about 4 cm to about 8 cm.
  • the scoop herein may be injection molded, which molding has the advantages of providing a finished product which is both durable and sturdy.
  • the present invention further relates to a kit containing the scoop as described above and a flexible package.
  • a consumer can use the scoop herein together with a flexible package. After opening the flexible package, the perimeter needs to be closed, e.g., by folding or rolling. The folded or rolled perimeter also needs fastening so that the product inside may not contact the external moisture or air.
  • the scoop herein can be used to fasten the perimeter.
  • the kit herein is subject to distribution (e.g., retail stores)
  • the scoop may be contained inside the flexible package. Otherwise, the scoop may be attached to the external surface of the flexible package.
  • the flexible package may have a zipper closure device for opening.
  • the zipper closure device can be opened or closed repeatedly without damaging the flexible package.
  • the flexible package can be completely closed and shut out of the external environment.
  • a zipper closure device it may be possible to protect the product contained in the package from moisture or air without folding or rolling the package.
  • the scoop herein may be formed of any suitable kind of material, typically a plastic material such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthrate, polyester, polychlorovinyl, and a combination thereof, or polyethylene, polypropylene and a combination thereof.
  • a plastic material such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthrate, polyester, polychlorovinyl, and a combination thereof, or polyethylene, polypropylene and a combination thereof.
  • the flexible package may have a thickness from about 0.01 mm to about 5 mm, from about 0.02 mm to about 4 mm, or from about 0.03 mm to about 3 mm.
  • the material used for the flexible package may include, but not limited to, a thermoplastic material (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyester, polychlorovinyl, etc.), a paper material (e.g., paper, cardboard. etc.), a rubber material, and the like.
  • the flexible package may contain a product selected from the group consisting of a solid product, a liquid product and/or a gel product.
  • the product herein may be a unitized dose product, such as a tablet, a geltab, a dissolvable pouch, and/or a combination thereof.
  • the product is a solid product, especially a granular product.
  • the product may include, e.g., a fabric detergent, a fabric enhancer, a hard surface detergent, a bleach, a coffee bean, a coffee powder, a milk powder, a pet food, etc.
  • the scoop herein may be transparent, translucent or opaque.
  • the scoop herein may contain at least one color, and may contain from two to five colors. Such colors may be indicate different parts of the scoop, different materials, indicate origin or branding, be purely for aesthetic reasons, etc.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
  • Table Equipment (AREA)
  • Food-Manufacturing Devices (AREA)
  • Supports Or Holders For Household Use (AREA)
  • Bag Frames (AREA)
US12/823,169 2009-06-30 2010-06-25 Clip Scoop Abandoned US20100326848A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US12/823,169 US20100326848A1 (en) 2009-06-30 2010-06-25 Clip Scoop

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US22158409P 2009-06-30 2009-06-30
US12/823,169 US20100326848A1 (en) 2009-06-30 2010-06-25 Clip Scoop

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20100326848A1 true US20100326848A1 (en) 2010-12-30

Family

ID=42735747

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US12/823,169 Abandoned US20100326848A1 (en) 2009-06-30 2010-06-25 Clip Scoop

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (1) US20100326848A1 (zh)
EP (1) EP2448836A1 (zh)
JP (1) JP2012530558A (zh)
CN (1) CN102470958B (zh)
BR (1) BRPI1015365A2 (zh)
MX (1) MX2011013922A (zh)
RU (1) RU2543464C2 (zh)
WO (1) WO2011002638A1 (zh)
ZA (1) ZA201108906B (zh)

Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20140265399A1 (en) * 2013-03-14 2014-09-18 Michael Young Materials Scoop
USD738228S1 (en) * 2013-06-26 2015-09-08 Leela Ivie Joshi Set of nested measuring cups
USD741112S1 (en) * 2014-03-14 2015-10-20 Brain Luzano-Belfield Tray for garnish and condiments
US20150308876A1 (en) * 2014-04-25 2015-10-29 Tailsco Ltd. Adjustable pet food scoop
WO2016078887A1 (en) * 2014-11-18 2016-05-26 Nestec S.A. Clip-scoop with anti-slipping functionalty
WO2018199836A1 (en) * 2017-04-25 2018-11-01 Å&R Carton Lund Aktiebolag An array of different types of metering scoops for dosing a consumer product
US10351321B1 (en) 2018-02-26 2019-07-16 Dean W. Wallwey Scoop holder
USD906772S1 (en) * 2018-12-20 2021-01-05 Tricorbraun Inc. Scoop for a container closure
RU222635U1 (ru) * 2023-03-09 2024-01-16 Общество с ограниченной ответственностью "БИОТРОФ" (ООО "БИОТРОФ") Мерная ложечка из картона
USD1022630S1 (en) 2022-04-13 2024-04-16 Yeti Coolers, Llc Scoop

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2014129887A1 (en) * 2013-02-22 2014-08-28 N.V. Nutricia Thermoformed container with lid
US20160267814A1 (en) * 2015-03-09 2016-09-15 Crystal Alicia Felton Cookie Chemistry Lab Kit
RU192171U1 (ru) * 2019-06-25 2019-09-05 Владимир Васильевич Галайко Ложка-контейнер
JP7351208B2 (ja) 2019-12-17 2023-09-27 凸版印刷株式会社 計量スプーン
KR102400857B1 (ko) * 2021-06-16 2022-05-23 조희윤 반려동물 간식용 스푼

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US3950823A (en) * 1975-06-06 1976-04-20 Schreter Arnold H Tie clasp
US5137316A (en) * 1991-04-05 1992-08-11 Plastofilm Industries, Inc. Stackable plastic scoop
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US5647413A (en) * 1996-02-13 1997-07-15 The Procter & Gamble Company Scoop assembly for granular materials and method of use
US5918922A (en) * 1997-12-29 1999-07-06 Lever Brothers Company Scoop
USD464994S1 (en) * 2002-01-14 2002-10-29 Rose Art Industries, Inc. Clamping push pin
US6516852B1 (en) * 2000-05-18 2003-02-11 Codax Technologies, Inc. Compact disc labeling apparatus and method
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US20060174493A1 (en) * 2005-02-05 2006-08-10 James Hsu Combination of spoon and clip
US20090140536A1 (en) * 2007-11-27 2009-06-04 Rubbermaid Incorporated One-Handed Ice Scoop
US20090167038A1 (en) * 2007-11-27 2009-07-02 Rubbermaid Incorporated Two-Handed Ice Scoop

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JPS5951736U (ja) * 1982-09-28 1984-04-05 テトラ・パツク・インタ−ナシヨナル・アクチボラグ スプ−ン付食品包装容器
DE69316192T2 (de) * 1992-02-03 1998-08-06 Procter & Gamble Vorrichtung zum aufnehmen und abgeben eines fliessfähigen produktes und zum schliessen eines flexiblen beutels
JPH08317848A (ja) * 1995-05-25 1996-12-03 Hinoya Boeki Kk 飲食用具
US5738444A (en) * 1996-10-03 1998-04-14 Conceptual Marketing & Development, Inc. Combination bag closure and scoop apparatus
JPH11152151A (ja) * 1997-11-18 1999-06-08 Takeshi Kameyama 袋状包装容器
DE29816772U1 (de) * 1998-09-18 1998-12-17 Melitta Haushaltsprodukte Entnahmegerät zur Entnahme von schüttfähigem Gut aus einer geöffneten Verpackung
RU33489U1 (ru) * 2002-10-23 2003-10-27 Аристакесян Георгий Арленович Ложка-клипса
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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US593117A (en) * 1897-11-02 Alexander e
US2795043A (en) * 1954-08-16 1957-06-11 Fleischer Ruth Device for administering medicine to be attached to a spoon handle
US3001404A (en) * 1959-01-29 1961-09-26 Borden Co Self-leveling measuring spoon
US3950823A (en) * 1975-06-06 1976-04-20 Schreter Arnold H Tie clasp
US5137316A (en) * 1991-04-05 1992-08-11 Plastofilm Industries, Inc. Stackable plastic scoop
US5347865A (en) * 1992-11-05 1994-09-20 Amway Corporation Measuring scoop with molded reusable fit clip
US5647413A (en) * 1996-02-13 1997-07-15 The Procter & Gamble Company Scoop assembly for granular materials and method of use
US5918922A (en) * 1997-12-29 1999-07-06 Lever Brothers Company Scoop
US6516852B1 (en) * 2000-05-18 2003-02-11 Codax Technologies, Inc. Compact disc labeling apparatus and method
US6973700B2 (en) * 2001-12-05 2005-12-13 Ray-Ling Hsiao Paper clip
USD464994S1 (en) * 2002-01-14 2002-10-29 Rose Art Industries, Inc. Clamping push pin
US20040099566A1 (en) * 2002-11-25 2004-05-27 Kipperman Stuart R. Container
US20060053638A1 (en) * 2004-09-10 2006-03-16 Carla Sumner-Trivisani Clip-on utensils and methods of use therefor
US20060156811A1 (en) * 2005-01-19 2006-07-20 Plastipak Packaging, Inc. Container with measuring device holding means
US20060174493A1 (en) * 2005-02-05 2006-08-10 James Hsu Combination of spoon and clip
US20090140536A1 (en) * 2007-11-27 2009-06-04 Rubbermaid Incorporated One-Handed Ice Scoop
US20090167038A1 (en) * 2007-11-27 2009-07-02 Rubbermaid Incorporated Two-Handed Ice Scoop

Cited By (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8967693B2 (en) * 2013-03-14 2015-03-03 San Jamar, Inc. Materials scoop
US20140265399A1 (en) * 2013-03-14 2014-09-18 Michael Young Materials Scoop
USD738228S1 (en) * 2013-06-26 2015-09-08 Leela Ivie Joshi Set of nested measuring cups
USD741112S1 (en) * 2014-03-14 2015-10-20 Brain Luzano-Belfield Tray for garnish and condiments
US9766108B2 (en) 2014-04-25 2017-09-19 Tailsco Ltd. Scoop for dispensing pet food
US20150308876A1 (en) * 2014-04-25 2015-10-29 Tailsco Ltd. Adjustable pet food scoop
US9625302B2 (en) * 2014-04-25 2017-04-18 Tailsco Ltd Adjustable pet food scoop
US10914624B2 (en) 2014-11-18 2021-02-09 Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A. Clip-scoop with anti-slipping functionality
RU2705615C2 (ru) * 2014-11-18 2019-11-11 Сосьете Де Продюи Нестле С.А. Зажим-ложка с защитой от соскальзывания
WO2016078887A1 (en) * 2014-11-18 2016-05-26 Nestec S.A. Clip-scoop with anti-slipping functionalty
EP3221669B1 (en) * 2014-11-18 2022-10-05 Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Clip-scoop with anti-slipping functionality
WO2018199836A1 (en) * 2017-04-25 2018-11-01 Å&R Carton Lund Aktiebolag An array of different types of metering scoops for dosing a consumer product
US10921170B2 (en) 2017-04-25 2021-02-16 Å&R Carton Lund Aktiebolag Array of different types of metering scoops for dosing a consumer product
US10351321B1 (en) 2018-02-26 2019-07-16 Dean W. Wallwey Scoop holder
USD906772S1 (en) * 2018-12-20 2021-01-05 Tricorbraun Inc. Scoop for a container closure
USD1022630S1 (en) 2022-04-13 2024-04-16 Yeti Coolers, Llc Scoop
RU222635U1 (ru) * 2023-03-09 2024-01-16 Общество с ограниченной ответственностью "БИОТРОФ" (ООО "БИОТРОФ") Мерная ложечка из картона

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ZA201108906B (en) 2022-11-30
EP2448836A1 (en) 2012-05-09
RU2543464C2 (ru) 2015-02-27
MX2011013922A (es) 2012-02-23
RU2011148014A (ru) 2013-08-10
CN102470958A (zh) 2012-05-23
JP2012530558A (ja) 2012-12-06
CN102470958B (zh) 2016-08-10
BRPI1015365A2 (pt) 2016-04-19
WO2011002638A1 (en) 2011-01-06

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