US20180334297A1

US20180334297A1 - Container systems

Info

Publication number: US20180334297A1
Application number: US15/595,996
Authority: US
Inventors: Vincent Hubert M. DE WILDE; Thierry Christian Francis Dagnelie; Lea NG PAK LEUNG Clara Sophie; Simone Pallotto
Original assignee: Procter and Gamble Co
Current assignee: Procter and Gamble Co
Priority date: 2017-05-16
Filing date: 2017-05-16
Publication date: 2018-11-22
Also published as: JP2020516551A; EP3625138A1; JP7183179B2; CN110536842B; CN110536842A; WO2018213002A1

Abstract

Container systems suitable for containing contents such as consumer products, closure systems, and methods related thereto, where the container systems and/or closure systems include hinged lids that are openable when first and second buttons located on a securing member are moved from respective first positions to respective second positions.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to container systems, closure systems, and methods related thereto.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Certain consumer products, such as unit dose detergent pouches, are often sold and stored in containers that have a secure closure system. The closure systems are intended to prevent or inhibit unintended openings of the container. In order to operate such closure systems, a user may have to manipulate the closure system in a particular fashion, such as by performing two separate actions at once or in a certain order. It is challenging to design a closure system that is both secure but also intuitive to use.
Many secure closure systems require the lid and/or frame around the lid to be directly manipulated and deformed, for example by pressing or pulling on tabs or latches, in order for the system to be unlocked and opened. However, upon repeated use, the lid and/or frame may suffer permanent deformation or loss or resiliency, resulting in less secure locking and/or a greater likelihood of accidental opening.
Furthermore, closure systems that require multiple actions to operate may often include multiple parts. Such systems may be costly and/or challenging for a manufacturer to assemble. There is a need for effective closure systems that are relatively easy to manufacture and/or assemble.
Additionally, product manufacturers prefer to sell their products in packaging that is aesthetically pleasing. However, effective closure systems are highly functional and are often unsightly. It is therefore desirable to provide a secure closure system that is well-integrated into the container system.
There is a need for container systems and/or closure systems that address one or more of the needs described above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to container systems, closure systems, and related methods.
For example, the present disclosure relates to container systems that include: a container body that includes walls that define an interior volume and an opening that provides throughaccess to the interior volume; a closure system that includes a hinged lid that is selectively moveable between a closed position that covers the opening and an open position that allows access to the interior volume, where the hinged lid is maintained in the closed position when at least a first interlocking member is engaged with a complementary interlocking member; and a securing member that is non-integral to the body and non-integral to the lid, the securing member including a first button and a second button that is spaced apart from, but joined to, the first button, each of the first and second buttons being biased to respective first positions and each being moveable to respective second positions, where when the first and second buttons are simultaneously in their respective second positions, the lid is able to be moved from the closed position to the open position because at least the first interlocking member disengages from the complementary interlocking member. The container system may contain consumer products, such as household care products, in the interior volume.
The present disclosure also relates to container systems that include: a container body that includes walls that define an interior volume and an opening that provides throughaccess to the interior volume; a closure system comprising a hinged lid that is selectively moveable between a closed position and an open position, the lid effectively blocking access to the interior volume when in the closed position and effectively allowing access to the interior volume when in the open position; a locking system including a securing member that is non-integral to the body and non-integral to the lid, the securing member including a first button and a second button that is spaced apart from the first button, each of the first and second buttons having a first position, each of the first and second buttons being moveable to a second position, each of the first and second buttons being resiliently biased to their respective first positions, and said first button being operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first and second buttons, where the first interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, where the lid is maintained in the closed position when the first interlocking member and the complementary interlocking member are engaged, and where the lid is moveable from the closed position to the open position when both the first and second buttons are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, resulting in disengagement of the first interlocking member and the complementary locking member.
The present disclosure also relates to methods of opening a container system, where the method includes the steps of: providing a container system as described herein, moving the first button and the second button so that the buttons are simultaneously located in their respective second positions, opening the hinged lid, and optionally accessing contents stored in the interior volume.
The present disclosure also relates to a closure system suitable for attachment to an open end of a container body, the closure system including a lid, a frame, and a securing member; the frame being configured to attach to an open end of a container body, the frame having an outer periphery and an inner periphery, the inner periphery defining a frame opening; the lid being hingedly connected to the frame, the lid being selectively moveable between a closed position and an open position, the lid effectively covering the frame opening when in the closed position and effectively allowing access through the frame opening when in the open position; the securing member being non-integral to the frame and non-integral to the lid, the securing member being connected to at least one of the frame and/or lid, the securing member including a first button and a second button that is spaced apart from the first button, each of the first and second buttons being moveable from a respective first position to a respective second position, each of the first and second buttons being resiliently biased the respective first positions, the first button being operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first and second buttons, where the first interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, where the lid is maintained in the closed position when the first locking member and the complementary locking member are engaged, and where the lid is moveable from the closed position to the open position when both the first and second buttons are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, resulting in disengagement of the first locking member and the complementary locking member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The figures herein are illustrative in nature and are not intended to be limiting.

FIG. 1 shows a container system according to the present disclosure, where the lid is in an open position.

FIG. 2 shows a container system according to the present disclosure, where the lid is in an closed position.

FIG. 3 shows a cross-section view of the container system of FIG. 2, viewed along line D-D.

FIG. 4 shows a closure system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows a top view of a securing member according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 shows a rear perspective view of a securing member according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 shows a bottom perspective view of a securing member according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 shows a rear top perspective view of a frame according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 shows a front bottom perspective view of a frame according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 shows a close-up view of portion C of FIG. 1, a spring system and its surrounding area.

FIG. 11 shows a view of substantially the same portion as shown in FIG. 10, as viewed from the rear of the container.

FIG. 12 shows a close-up view of portion A of FIG. 1, complementary interlocking members of the lid.

FIG. 13 shows a close-up view of cross-section portion E of FIG. 3, where an interlocking member of the securing system is engaged with a complementary interlocking system of the lid.

FIG. 14 shows a schematic top view of the interaction of the securing member, its interlocking members, and the complementary interlocking members on the lid, when the first and second buttons are in the first position.

FIG. 15 shows a schematic view similar to that of FIG. 14, but where the first and second buttons are in their respective second positions.

FIG. 16 shows a close-up view of portion B of FIG. 1, a biasing system.

FIG. 17 shows a representative elastic member according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 shows a configuration of the biasing system.

FIG. 19 shows a configuration of the biasing system.

FIG. 20 shows a configuration of the biasing system.

FIG. 21 shows a configuration of the biasing system.

FIG. 22 shows a cross-section of the biasing system located at portion F of FIG. 3.

FIG. 23 shows a cross-section of an alternative biasing system, as if located at portion F of FIG. 3.

FIG. 24 shows a container system according to the present disclosure, including a tamper-evident feature.

FIG. 25 shows a container system according to the present disclosure, where the securing member is secured to the container body.

FIG. 26 shows a container system according to the present disclosure, where the securing member is secured to the lid.

FIG. 27 shows a container system according to the present disclosure, where the securing member is secured to the lid.

FIG. 28 shows a container system according to the present disclosure, where the securing member is secured to the lid in an alternative configuration.

FIG. 29 shows a unit dose article according to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to container systems, closure systems, and related methods. More specifically, the closure systems of the present disclosure may include at least two buttons that must be operated, for example by sliding them towards each other, in order to open the closure system. The two buttons may be manipulated by a single adult hand, providing convenient and intuitive operability. The closure system may also be configured so that if only one button is operated and/or if the buttons are not operated simultaneously, the closure system will remain securely closed.
The two buttons may be part of a single, preferably monolithic, securing member that can be connected to the rest of the closure system and may even further include a spring system. When the securing member is a single piece having the at least two buttons (and optionally, a spring system), the closure system can be more conveniently assembled compared to a system having separate buttons.
Furthermore, it can advantageous having an actuatable securing member that is distinct from the body, lid, and/or frame. When the securing member is a separate pieces that is the part of the container system that is directly manipulated, it can save wear-and-tear on the body, lid, and/or frame so that they are not deformed, weakened, or otherwise made easier to become unsecured over the course of repeated uses.
The container systems, closure systems, and related methods of the present disclosure are described in more detail below.
As used herein, the articles “a” and “an” when used in a claim, are understood to mean one or more of what is claimed or described. As used herein, the terms “include,” “includes,” and “including” are meant to be non-limiting. The compositions of the present disclosure can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of, the components of the present disclosure.
The terms “substantially free of” or “substantially free from” may be used herein. This means that the indicated material is at the very minimum not deliberately added to the composition to form part of it, or, preferably, is not present at analytically detectable levels. It is meant to include compositions whereby the indicated material is present only as an impurity in one of the other materials deliberately included. The indicated material may be present, if at all, at a level of less than 1%, or less than 0.1%, or less than 0.01%, or even 0%, by weight of the composition.
As used herein the phrase “fabric care composition” includes compositions and formulations designed for treating fabric. Such compositions include but are not limited to, laundry cleaning compositions and detergents, fabric softening compositions, fabric enhancing compositions, fabric freshening compositions, laundry prewash, laundry pretreat, laundry additives, spray products, dry cleaning agent or composition, laundry rinse additive, wash additive, post-rinse fabric treatment, ironing aid, unit dose formulation, delayed delivery formulation, detergent contained on or in a porous substrate or nonwoven sheet, and other suitable forms that may be apparent to one skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. Such compositions may be used as a pre-laundering treatment, a post-laundering treatment, or may be added during the rinse or wash cycle of the laundering operation.
Unless otherwise noted, all component or composition levels are in reference to the active portion of that component or composition, and are exclusive of impurities, for example, residual solvents or by-products, which may be present in commercially available sources of such components or compositions.
All temperatures herein are in degrees Celsius (° C.) unless otherwise indicated. Unless otherwise specified, all measurements herein are conducted at 20° C. and under the atmospheric pressure.
In all embodiments of the present disclosure, all percentages are by weight of the total composition, unless specifically stated otherwise. All ratios are weight ratios, unless specifically stated otherwise.
It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitation given throughout this specification includes every lower numerical limitation, as if such lower numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout this specification will include every higher numerical limitation, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout this specification will include every narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.

Container Systems

The present disclosure relates to container systems. FIG. 1 shows an exemplary container system 1 according to the present disclosure. The container system 1 may include a container body 2 and a closure system 3.
The container body 2 may be made of a rigid material and/or be in the form of a tub; the rigid material may allow some degree of deformation or flex. The container body 2 may be made of a flexible material and/or be in the form of a bag. Any suitable polyolefins and/or polyesters may be used. The body 2, closure system 3, both, or portions thereof may be formed partially or wholly of a moldable thermoplastic material, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitryl butadiene styrene (ABS), polyester, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate or elastomer, or a blend of these materials. The container body 2 and/or closure system 3 may include laminated materials; for example, a flexible bag body may include a multilayer material comprising layers of PET and PE. The container system 1 or portions thereof may be partially or wholly formed of a clear, transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque material. The materials used to form the container system may have one or more colors.
The container body 2 may be in any suitable shape, for example a substantially rectangular prism or a cylinder. The container body 2 may include walls.
The container body may include a front wall 10, a rear wall 11, side walls 12, 13, and a bottom wall 14. The front, rear, and side walls 10, 11, 12, 13 may be joined at proximal ends to the bottom wall 14 to form a closed end of the container body 2. The container body 2 may include an open end, which may be opposite the closed end. The side walls 12, 13 may meet the front and rear walls 10, 11 at corners 15.
The container body 2 may be oriented on X-, Y-, and Z-axes. The bottom wall 14 may be substantially parallel to a plane formed by the X- and Z-axes. The front and rear walls 10, 11 may be substantially parallel to a plane formed by the X- and Y-axes. The side walls 12, 13 may be substantially parallel to a plane formed by the Y- and Z-axes. The container body 2 and/or container system 1 may be characterized by: a width measured along the X-axis; a height measured along the Y-axis; and/or a depth measured along the Z-axis.
At least some of the walls 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 may be flat. At least some may not be flat. At least some of the walls 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 may be curved. At least some of the walls 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 may be convex. At least some portions of the walls 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 may be concave. The front, rear, and side walls 10, 11, 12, 13 may form a cross-sectional shape that is substantially square, rectangular, elliptical, or octagonal.
The front, rear, and/or side walls 10, 11, 12, 13 may extend upwardly away from the bottom wall 14. The front, rear, and/or side walls 10, 11, 12, 13 may be substantially orthogonal to the bottom wall 14. The front, rear, and/or side walls 10, 11, 12, 13 may project outwardly from a central axis 21 of the container body 2.
The walls 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 may define an interior volume 17 of the container body. The interior volume 17 may be selected to adequately contain the desired contents. The interior volume 17 may have a volume of at least about 0.5 L, or at least about 1 L, or at least about 2 L, or at least about 3 L, or at least about 4 L, or at least about 5 L, or at least about 6 L. The interior volume 17 may have a volume no more than about 100 L, or no more than about 50 L, or no more than about 10 L, or no more than about 8 L, or no more than about 6 L, or no more than about 5 L, or no more than about 4 L, or no more than about 2 L, or no more than about 1 L. The interior volume 17 may have a volume of from about 0.5 L to about 5 L.
The walls 10, 11, 12, 13 may define an opening 16 that provides throughaccess to the interior volume 17. The opening 16 may be opposite the bottom wall 14 and/or the closed end of the container body 2. The opening 17 may be defined by distal ends of the front, rear, and/or side walls 10, 11, 12, 13.
As shown in FIG. 1, the closure system 3 may include a hinged lid 4. The hinged lid 4 may have an open position, as shown in FIG. 1, and a closed position, as shown in FIG. 2. The lid 4 may effectively block access to the interior volume 17 when the lid 4 is in the closed position. The lid 4 may effectively allow access to the interior volume when the lid 4 is in the open position. The hinged lid 4 may be selectively moveable between the closed position and the open position. A hinged lid 4 may be advantageous over a removeable lid because a hinged lid cannot be removed and subsequently misplaced, which may be particularly relevant when the contents of the container system 1, e.g., are water sensitive and/or comprise household chemicals that should be stored securely.
The lid 4 may be rotatably moveable between the closed position and the open position. The lid 4 may rotate around a hinge axis 36. The hinge axis 36 may be substantially parallel with the X-axis. A predetermined angle may be formed by the position of the lid 4 in the closed position and the position of the lid 4 in the open position. The predetermined angle may be from about 90° to about 270°, preferably from about 90° to about 180°, more preferably from about 110° to about 150°, or from about 110° to about 135°. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that when a lid 4 is at such an angle in the open position, it can provide a visual cue to remind the user to reclose the lid 4 after use. Furthermore, when the lid 4 is opened to a predetermined angle of greater than 90°, the tub may take up a larger 2-D footprint, making it more difficult for the user to put away for storage, which can also serve as a cue to remind the user to reclose the lid. Such cues may be particularly useful when the contents held inside the container system are sensitive, for example, to water, light, dirt, etc. Such a position may also be useful for displaying information located on the inner surface of the lid 4 to the user, such as branding, instructional, or safety information.
The closure system 3 may further include a frame 5. The frame 5 may be connectable to the container body 2 and to the lid 4. The frame 5 may be hingeably connectable to the lid 4.
The container system may include a locking system. The locking system may include at least one securing member 30. The securing member 30 may be a single piece and/or monolithic in nature. The securing member 30 may include multiple pieces (e.g., a button and a spring), which may be joined to each other. The securing member 30 may be non-integral to the container body 2, to the lid 4, and/or to the frame 5. The securing member 30 may be separate from but connected to the container body 2, to the lid 4, and/or to the frame 5. As configured in the container system 1 of FIG. 1, the securing member 30 is connected to the frame 5, but is non-integral to the frame 5.
The securing member 30 or parts thereof may have a color that contrasts with surrounding portions of the container system 1, e.g., the frame 5 and/or lid 4. A color contrast can draw the user's visual attention and signal the area of the container system 1 that needs to be operated in order for the system to be opened.
The securing member 30 may include a first button 31 and a second button 32 that is spaced apart from the first button 31. Each of the first and second buttons 31, 32 has a first position. Each of the first and second buttons 31, 32 are moveable to a second position. Each of the first and second buttons 31, 32 are resiliently biased to their respective first positions. A spring system 33 may resiliently bias the first and second buttons 31, 32 to their respective first positions.
The first button 31 may be operatively connected to a first interlocking member 50. The first interlocking member 50 may be an integral part of the securing member 30. The first locking member 50 may be located substantially between the first and second buttons 31, 32. The first interlocking member 50 may be selectively engageable with a complementary locking member 52. The complementary locking member 52 may be located on the lid 4. The lid 4 may be maintained in the closed position when the first locking member 50 and the complementary locking member 52 are engaged. The lid 4 may be moveable from the closed position to the open position when both the first and second buttons 31, 32 are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, which results in disengagement of the first locking member 50 and the complementary locking member 52.
FIG. 2 shows an exemplary container system 1 where the lid 4 of the closure system 3 is in the closed position. The lid 4 may have a top surface 34. The frame 5 may have an upper surface 35. The upper surface 35 of the frame 5 may be substantially coplanar with the top surface 34 of the lid 4 when the lid 4 is in the closed position, thereby providing a relatively smooth surface that may be conducive to stacking container systems.
The container system 1 may include a hinge 36 about which the lid 4 can hingeably rotate between the open and closed positions. The hinge 36 may be a living hinge, or it may include a pin. The hinge 36 may be present in one or more portions, e.g., two portions.
As shown in FIG. 1, the securing member 30 may be substantially visible when the lid 4 is in the open position. The lid 4 may include a lip 37 that substantially covers at least a portion of the securing member 30 when the lid 4 is in the closed position, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Covering at least a portion of the securing member 30 may minimize damage to, or loosening of, the securing member 30 that may result from various impacts that may be encountered during filling, sealing, storage, and/or transport processes. Covering at least a portion of the securing member 30 may also improve the aesthetics of the container system 1 when the lid 4 is in the closed position, for example when presented for sale on a store shelf. The lip 37 may be configured to extend outwardly (away from the central axis 21) and/or downwardly (toward the plane of the bottom wall 14). The lip 37 may be substantially curved and/or convex. The lip 37 may cover at least 50%, or at least 60% of the length of the securing member 30, where the length is measured from one end 80 to an opposite end 81.
When the lid 4 is in the closed position, the container system 1 may be relatively air-tight and/or water-tight, which may be particularly advantageous when the container system 1 contains water-sensitive contents. The container system 1 may include features that contribute to air-tight and/or water-tight qualities, such as sealing flanges and/or compressible surfaces that interact to form tight seals. The container system 1 may include a plug seal, a gasket seal, or a combination thereof. The container system 1 may comprise a hygroscopic material, e.g., a dessicant. When the lid 4 is in the closed position, the container system 1 may have a MVTR (moisture vapor transfer rate) measurement of less than about 2.0 grams per day per square meter of package surface (g/day/m̂2), or less than about 1.0 g/day/m̂2, or less than about 0.75 g/day/m̂2, or less than about 0.50 g/day/m̂2, or less than about 0.25 g/day/m̂2, at 35° C. and 65% relative humidity. MVTR is determined according to ASTM D7709.
FIG. 3 shows a cross-section view of the container system 1 as viewed along line D-D in FIG. 2, where the lid 4 is in the closed position. As shown in FIG. 3, the walls 10, 11, 12 (not shown), 13 (not shown), 14 of the container body 2 define the interior volume 17. The bottom wall 14 may have a concave portion 38 that extends towards the interior volume 17 of the container body 2. The concave portion 38 may add stability to the container body 2, may facilitate stable nesting with other container bodies, and/or result in minimal contact between the bottom wall 14 of the container system 1 and an upper portion of another container system when stacked.
The present disclosure further relates to closure systems 3. The closure system 3 may include a lid 4, a frame 5, and a securing member 30. The closure systems 3 of the present disclosure may be connected to a container body to form a container system 1. The closure systems 3 may be independent of container systems 1 and/or container bodies. It may be advantageous to manufacture, transport, and/or store closure systems 3 independently of the container bodies. Additionally, various shapes or volumes of container bodies may be sized and configured to fit a single closure system 3, resulting in manufacturing simplification and flexibility.
FIG. 4 shows a front top perspective view of a closure system 3 according to the present disclosure. As pictured, the closure system 3 includes a lid 4, a frame 5, and a securing member 30. The lid 4 is hingedly connected to the frame 5. The lid 4 is shown in the open position but is moveable about a hinge 36 to a closed position to cover an opening 139 of the frame 5. The frame 5 is configured to be capable of connecting to a container body 2, and the opening of the frame 5 is positioned to align with an opening 16 of the container body 2 to allow throughaccess to the interior volume of the container body 2 when so connected.
The securing member 30 may be connected to the frame 5. The securing member 30 includes a first button 31 and a second button 32. A spring system 33 biases the first and second buttons 31, 32 in a first position. The securing member 30 may include the spring system 33. Interlocking members 50, 51 on the securing member 30 (e.g., latches) can engage with complementary interlocking members 52, 53 (e.g., catches) on the lid 4 to maintain the lid 4 in the closed position.
The securing member 30 may be configured so that the buttons 31, 32, preferably the buttons 31, 32 and the interlocking members 50, 51, are substantially on the same axis (here, the X-axis) and/or the same plane (e.g., the X-Y plane). The securing member 30 may be substantially configured in the shape of an arc. The securing member 30 may be configured so that the buttons 31, 32, preferably the buttons 31, 32 and the interlocking members 50, 51, are located substantially on the same surface or face of the container system 1. The securing member 30 may be configured so that the buttons 31, 32, preferably the buttons 31, 32 and the interlocking members 50, 51, are simultaneously adjacent the same surface of the closure system 3 (e.g., the front wall 40 of the frame) and/or of the container system 1 (e.g., the front wall 10 of the container). The securing member 30 may be configured so that the buttons 31, 32, preferably the buttons 31, 32 and the interlocking members 50, 51, are substantially in the same plane as a wall 10, 11, 12, 13, preferably the front wall 10, of the container body 2. For example, in the closure system 3 of FIG. 4, the securing member 30 is configured so that the buttons 31, 32 and the interlocking members 50, 51 will be substantially in the same plane as the front wall 10 of the container body 2; see also FIGS. 1 and 2. The securing member 30 may have an aspect ratio of at least 5:1, preferably at least 7:1, more preferably at least 10:1, where the longer length is measured from the first end 61 of the securing member 30 to the second end 62.
The closure system 3 may include a biasing system 60. The biasing system 60 may bias the lid 4 toward the open position. The biasing system 60 may include an elastic member 61 that is deformed when the lid 4 is in the closed position and urges the lid 4 towards the open position when the interlocking locking members 50, 51 and complementary interlocking members 52, 53 are disengaged.
The present disclosure relates, for example, to a closure system 3 suitable for attachment to an open end of a container body 2, the closure system 3 comprising a lid 4, a frame 5, and a securing member 30, the frame 5 being configured to attach to an open end of a container body 2, the frame 5 having an outer periphery 140 and an inner periphery 150, the inner periphery 150 defining a frame opening 139; the lid 4 being hingedly connected to the frame 5, the lid 4 being selectively moveable between a closed position and an open position, the lid 4 effectively covering the frame opening 139 when in the closed position and effectively allowing access through the frame opening 139 when in the open position; the securing member 30 being non-integral to the frame 5 and non-integral to the lid 4, the securing member 30 being connected to at least one of the frame 5 and/or lid 4, the securing member 30 comprising a first button 31 and a second button 32 that is spaced apart from the first button 31, each of the first and second buttons 31, 32 being moveable from a respective first position to a respective second position, each of the first and second buttons 31, 32 being resiliently biased the respective first positions, the first button 31 being operatively connected to a first interlocking member 50 located substantially between the first and second buttons 31, 32, where the first interlocking member 50 is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member 52, where the lid 4 is maintained in the closed position when the first locking member 50 and the complementary locking member are engaged 52, and where the lid 4 is moveable from the closed position to the open position when both the first and second buttons 31, 32 are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, resulting in disengagement of the first locking member 50 and the complementary locking member 52. The second button 32 may be operatively connected to a second interlocking member 51 located substantially between the first and second buttons 31, 32, where the second interlocking member 51 is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member 53, preferably a second complementary locking member. The securing member 30 may be connected to the frame 5, and the complementary locking members 52, 53 are located on the lid 4.
The components of closure systems 3 according to the present disclosure, including the securing member 30, the frame 5, and the lid 4, are discussed in more detail below.
FIG. 5 shows a top view of an exemplary securing member 30, and FIG. 6 shows a rear perspective view of the same. The securing member 30 may be a single piece. The securing member may be monolithic in nature.
The securing member 30 includes a first button 31 and a second button 32. The second button 32 is spaced apart from the first button 31. The first button 31 may be located at or near a first end 80 of the securing member 30. The second button 32 may be located at or near a second end 81 of the securing member 30, where the second end 81 is opposite the first end 80. The first button 31 may be connected or joined to, directly or indirectly, to the second button 32. The first and second buttons 31, 32 may be part of the same molded component.
The buttons 31, 32 are sized and configured to be operable by adult human fingers, preferably by fingers on one hand. The buttons 31, 32 may be configured to conveniently receive a finger and may include one or more surfaces against which a force may be applied during operation of the securing member 30.
For example, the buttons 31, 32 may comprise a base wall 82, 83, which may be substantially in the X-Z plane. The buttons 31, 32 may comprise a first vertical wall 84, 85 extending from the base wall 82, 83; the first vertical wall 84, 85 may be substantially in the X-Y plane. The buttons 31, 32 may comprise a second vertical wall 86, 87 extending from the base wall 82, 83; the second vertical wall 86, 87 may be substantially in the Y-Z plane. The base wall 81, 82, the first vertical wall 84, 85, and/or the second vertical wall 86, 87 may be substantially orthogonal to each other. The walls 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87 of the buttons 31, 32 may be flat, or they may be contoured fit a finger. The buttons 31, 32 may have surface irregularities 125 to provide an improved gripping surface. One or more of the walls 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87 of the buttons 31, 32 may have an outer edge 88. It may be desirable for the outer edge 88 to be substantially rounded, as pointed corners may poke the user, risk puncturing a unit dose article, and/or be less aesthetically pleasing.
The first button 31 may be spaced apart from the second button 32 by a distance 89. The distance 89 may be selected to fit the maximum functional hand span of an average adult human hand. The distance 89 may be adjusted depending on the target population of container system users; for example, females tend to have smaller maximum functional hand spans than males. The distance 89 between the buttons 31, 32 is measured as the smallest distance between locations on the buttons where a user places his or her fingers in order to operate the securing member 30. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the distance 89 between the buttons is measured from the second vertical wall 86 of the first button 31 to the second vertical wall 87 of the second button 32. The distance 89 between the buttons 31, 32 may be from about 50 mm, or from about 70 mm, or from about 90 mm, or from about 105 mm, or from about 110 mm, to about 150 mm, or to about 130 mm, or to about 120 mm.
The buttons 31, 32 may comprise indicia 90. The indicia 90 may be molded integrally with, printed on, and/or affixed (such as by label or sticker) to the buttons. The indicia 90 may comprise text, a graphic, or a combination thereof. The indicia 90 may provide a safety indication, an instructional indication, a trademark or brand name, or combinations thereof. The instructional indication may indicate how to open the container system 1, for example with arrows indicating the direction to depress the buttons. Other parts of the closure system 3 (for example, the lid 4 or the container body) may comprise any of the indicia 90 described above.
The first button 31 is operably connected to a first interlocking member 50. The first interlocking member 50 may be located substantially between the first and second buttons 31, 32. In FIGS. 5 and 6, the first interlocking member 50 is a first latch having an inner edge 91 and an outer edge 92, the outer edge 92 being proximal to the first button 31 and the inner edge 91 being distal to the first button 31.
The second button 32 may be operably connected to a second interlocking member 51. The second interlocking member 51 is located substantially between the first and second buttons 31, 32. In FIGS. 5 and 6, the second interlocking member 51 is a second latch having an inner edge 93 and an outer edge 94.
The first interlocking member 50 may be located between the first button 31 and the second interlocking member 51. The second interlocking member 51 may be located between the second button 32 and the first interlocking member 50.
A first interlocking member 50 may be near a first spring portion 97 of the spring system 33, and/or the second interlocking member 51 may be near a second spring portion 98 of the spring system 33. The first and second interlocking members 50, 51 may be in the form of latches. The latch may have a downwardly facing flat surface 118, 119 (e.g., facing the bottom wall 14 of the container body 2), configured to engage with complementary interlocking members 52 located on the lid 4 in a manner that secures the lid 4 in the closed position. When the lid 4 is in the closed position, the flat surface 118, 119 of the interlocking member 50, 51 may face and engage with a flat face 54 of the complementary interlocking member 52, 53 so that the lid 4 cannot be opened.
The interlocking members 50, 51 may include an angled surface 120, 121. The angled surface 120, 121 may be configured to facilitate movement of the lid 4 to the closed position by engaging with a corresponding surface (e.g., an angled face 55 of a complementary interlocking member 52, 53) on the lid 4, encouraging at least a portion of the lid 4, securing member 30, frame 5, and/or body to flex or otherwise deform enough to allow lid 4 to move to the fully closed position. When the angled surface 120, 121 is no longer engaging the corresponding surface 55, the flexed or deformed portion returns to its original position, and the lid 4 is securely closed with the interlocking members 50, 51 and complementary interlocking members engaged 52, 53.
A latch 50, 51 may be characterized by a latch width 95, measured as the distance between the inner edge 91, 93 and the outer edge 92, 94 of the latch. The latch width 95 may relate to, and/or be substantially the same as, the distance that the latch 50, 51 must be moved in order to disengage from the complementary interlocking structure 52, 53, such as a catch. A latch 50, 51 having a larger width 95 may have to be moved a greater distance to disengage. Larger latches may provide a greater contact surface with the complementary interlocking structures, which may make the closure systems 3 more secure. One of ordinary skill may optimize the size of the latch, the distance 95 that the latch must be moved to disengage from a complementary interlocking structure, and/or the ratio thereof.
The outer edge 91 of the first latch 50 and the outer edge 93 of the second latch 51 may be spaced apart by a distance 96. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that providing a relatively small distance 96 between the two latches 50, 51 results in the two latches 50, 51 securing the lid 4 at effectively a single latch point. When two latches 50, 51 are substantially spaced apart, one end of the lid 4 maybe able to be pried open when one latch 50 is disengaged, even when the other latch 51 remains engaged. However, when two latches 50, 51 are closer and act substantially as a single latch, particularly when located near a central portion of a lid edge, the lid 4 is harder to pry open when only one latch is disengaged due to less leverage. Furthermore, where two latches 50, 51 are positioned to act substantially as one latch, there is less risk of believing that closure is fully closed and locked when it is in fact not, compared to a system where latches are located more distantly apart. Additionally, the described configuration requires two buttons 31, 32 to be operated in order open the lid 4, whereas a system comprising a single button operatively connected to a single latch is relatively easier to manipulate and therefore possibly less secure.
In view of the present disclosure, one of ordinary skill will be able to size, position, and configure the latches in a suitable fashion, preferable in a way so that the two latches 50, 51 operate at a de facto single latch point. For example, the manufacturer may manipulate the length of the latches 95, the depth of the latches, and/or the distance 96 between the latches. The distance 96 between the outer edges 92, 94 of the first and second interlocking members 50, 51 (e.g., the latches) may be from about 10 mm to about 60 mm, preferably from about 10 mm to about 40 mm, more preferably from about 10 mm to about 25 mm, when the first and second buttons 31, 32 are in their respective first positions.
The container system 1 and/or closure systems 3 of the present disclosure may comprise a spring system 33. As shown in FIG. 5, the spring system 33 may be part of, preferably integrally part of, the securing member 30. The spring system 33 may resiliently bias the first button 31 to its first position and the second button 32 to its first position.
The spring system 33 may comprise a resiliently flexible material, such as metal, silicone, or flexible plastic, preferably flexible plastic. Plastic is a readily recyclable material, which may thereby increase the environmental-friendliness of the container system.
The spring system 33 may have any suitable configuration or shape. The spring system 33 may be substantially in the shape of the letter M, N, S, U, V, or W. The spring system 33 may be in the shape of a coil. The spring system 33 may comprise a flange that is deformed under pressure and that biases the button to its first position when the pressure is released. Depending on the configuration, the spring system 33 may be compressed or stretched, and then return to its original shape to bias the buttons 31, 32 to their first positions. The spring system 33 illustrated in FIG. 5 is compressed when the buttons 31, 32 are moved from their respective first positions to their respective second positions.
The spring system 33 may resiliently bias the first and second buttons 31, 32 independently. For example, the spring system 33 may include a first spring portion 97 that biases the first button 31 to its first position. The spring system 33 may include a second spring portion 98 that independently biases the second button 32 to its first position. Thus, moving the first button 31 does not substantially move the second button 32, and moving the second button 32 does not substantially move the first button 31, resulting in that both buttons 31, 32 must be operated independently in order for the lid 4 to be opened.
The spring system 33 may be located between the first and second buttons 31, 32, as shown in FIG. 5. Alternative configurations, however, are also contemplated by the present disclosure. For example, the spring system 33 may comprise at least two parts located at or near the ends of the securing member 30, and the buttons 31, 32 may be between the two parts. In this configuration, which is not illustrated in the present figures, the spring system 33 may be anchored to the frame 5 or container body 2 and be stretched when the buttons 31, 32 are moved from their respective first positions to their respective second positions. When the moving force is removed, the springs may retract to their original form, pulling the buttons 31, 32 to their respective first positions.
When the buttons 31, 32 are located closely to the interlocking members 50, 51, the closure system 3 may be easier to open compared to when the buttons 31, 32 and interlocking members 50, 51 are spaced apart. Therefore, to provide for a more secure container system 1, the first button 31 may be spaced apart from the first interlocking member 50, and the second button 32 may be spaced apart from the second interlocking member 51. The buttons 31, 32 may be spaced apart from the respective interlocking members 50, 51 by at least about 0.5 cm, or at least about 1 cm, or at least about 2 cm, or at least about 3 cm, or at least about 4 cm, or at least about 5 cm. It may be desirable to select a configuration that spaces the buttons 31, 32 away from the interlocking members 50, 51, but that still allows the securing member to be operated with a single hand. This configuration may also allow the interlocking members 50, 51 to be spaced close together, so that they may effective operate as a single latch point.
The securing member 30 may include one or more intermediate portions 99, 100. The intermediate portions 99, 100 may be located between a button 31, 32 and an interlocking member 50, 51 such as a latch. The intermediate portion 99, 100 may act to space the buttons 31, 32 apart from the interlocking members 50, 51. The intermediate portion 99, 100 may operatively connect the button 31, 32 and the interlocking member 50, 51. The securing member 30 may include a first intermediate portion 99 located between a first button 31 and a first interlocking member 50. The securing member 30 may include a second intermediate portion 100 located between a second button 32 and a second interlocking member 51. The intermediate portion 99, 100 may comprise a top wall 101, a front wall 102, and a rear wall 103. The front and rear walls 102, 103 may depend, for example depend downwardly, from the top wall 101 of the intermediate portion 99, 100.
The securing member 30 may include a gap 104, 105 between at least a portion of the intermediate portion 99, 100 and the spring system 33. A first gap 104 may be located between the first intermediate portion 99 and the first spring portion 97. A second gap 105 may be located between the second intermediate portion 100 and the second spring portion 98. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the intermediate portions 99, 100 may be connected to the spring system 33 while still forming a gap 104, 105. A gap 106 may also be present between the first spring portion 97 and the second spring portion 98. The gaps 104, 105, 106 described herein can allow for movement and/or compression of the securing member 30.
The securing system 30 and/or spring system 33 may configured so as to require a predetermined minimum amount of force to be applied in order to move the first and second buttons 31, 32 from their respective first positions to their respective second positions. Requiring a predetermined minimum amount of force may help to prevent unintended opening of the closure system 3. The predetermined minimum amount of force required to move the buttons 31, 32 simultaneously from the respective first positions to the respective second positions may be: from about 1 pound to about 10 pounds, or from about 1 pound to about 5 pounds, or from about 1 pound to about 3.5 pounds. The predetermined minimum amount of force required may be from about 1.5N to about 45N, or from about 3N to about 22N, or from about 5N to about 20N, or to about 15N. The predetermined minimum amount of force may be adjusted by particular configurations of the spring system 33, selection of materials for the spring system, adjusting the frictional surfaces along which the buttons or other parts of the securing member 30 move when operated, or any other configuration or solution evident to one of ordinary skill in view of the present disclosure.
The securing member 30 may include one or more stopping structures 107, 108. The one or more stopping structures 107, 108 may be located on the intermediate portions 99, 100 of the securing member 30. The one or more stopping structures 107, 108 may be configured to limit the movement of the buttons 31, 32. For example, a stopping structure 107, 108 may project away from the securing member 30 and may include a stopping surface 109, 110. When a button 31, 32 is moved from the first position to the second position, the stopping surface 109, 110 may contact another surface, such as a stationary surface on the lid 4 (e.g., an edge of a complementary interlocking member 52, 53), the frame 5, or the container body 2, thereby limiting, slowing, or even stopping further movement of the buttons 31, 32. Stopping structures 107, 108 may be advantageous to limit wear and tear on the spring system 33 and/or to prevent the securing member 30 to be pressed so far as to become disconnected from the rest of the closure system 3.
The container system 1 may comprise one or more stability features. The stability features may be in addition to the interlocking and complementary interlocking members 50, 51, 52, 53. The one or more stability features may be configured to add additional stability and/or structural support to the closure system 3 when the lid 4 is in the closed position in order to further reduce the potential for unintended opening. The container system 1 may comprise at least two stability features, which may be located on opposite sides of the interlocking features 51, 52 when the lid 4 is in the closed position. The one or more stability features may include at least a pair, preferably two pairs, of complementary structures, for example an extending portion 164, 165 and a receiving portion 162, 163 configured to receive the extending portion 164, 165 when the lid 4 is in the closed position. When the extending portion 164, 165 is nested within or otherwise adjacent to the receiving portion 162, 163, the closure system 3 may be relatively more resilient to deforming forces that might otherwise unintendedly disengage the interlocking members 51, 52. Due in part to the stability features, the security of the closure system 3 is increased, and actuating the buttons 31, 32 may be the only feasible way to open the container system 1.
As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a receiving portion 162, 163 in the form of an open-ended pocket may be formed from the stopping structure 107, 108, including the stopping surfaces 109, 110, and the rear wall 103 of the securing member. The receiving portion 162, 163 may be configured to receive an extended portion 164, 165 located on the lid 4 (see, e.g., FIG. 12). When the lid 4 is closed, the stability features 160, 161 help to maintain engagement between the interlocking and complementary interlocking members 51, 52, 53, 54. This added support and security is particularly relevant when the front wall 10 flexes inwardly (for example, if the container system 1 were squeezed by forces along the Z axis) or outwardly (for example, if the container system 1 were squeezed by forces along the X axis). Thus, accidental opening (for example, when a container system 1 is dropped or stepped upon) may be avoided.
Other configurations of the stability features are contemplated by the present disclosure, even if not illustrated. For example: the receiving portion may be located on the frame; the extended portion may be located on the securing member or on the frame, and the receiving portion may be located on the lid; the extended portion may be in the form of a post or flange; the receiving portion may be in the form of a hole or slot.
FIG. 7 shows a bottom front perspective view of an exemplary securing member 30. The front wall 102, the rear wall 103, and the top wall 101 of the intermediate portions 99, 100 may substantially define an interior space 111. The intermediate portion 99, 100 may include support structures, such as ribs 112, to provide strength to the securing member 30, which may be useful in maintaining the securing member's general shape when force is applied to the buttons 31, 32. The support ribs 112 may extend between the front and rear walls 102, 103. The support ribs may extend between the top wall 101 and the front wall 102, the rear wall 103, or both.
The securing member 30 may comprise one or more connector portions 113, 114, 115, 116. The connector portions 113, 114, 115, 116 facilitate connection of the securing member 30 to another part of the container system 1 and securing it into place. The connector portions 113, 114, 115, 116 may be located on the intermediate portions 99, 100 of the securing member 30. As shown in FIG. 7, the connector portions 113, 114, 115, 116 may extend downwardly away from the top wall 101 of the intermediate potion 99, 100. The connector portion 113, 114, 115, 116 may include any suitable configuration that is complementary to a corresponding structure on another part of the container system 1. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the connector portion 113, 114, 115, 116 may be in the shape of a resiliently flexible hook. The hook may be deflected when the securing member 30 is being connected to another part of the closure system 3 (e.g., the frame 5) but then snap back into place once the hook moves past a corresponding structure, thereby connecting the securing member 30 to the part. Additionally or alternatively, a connector, for example, a hook on the other part of the container system 1 (e.g., the frame 5) may move past the connector portion, which may be a hook, a flange, or a rim around an opening, and then snap into place. Although the connector portion 113, 114, 115, 116 facilitates secure connection to another part of the container system 1, the connector portion 113, 114, 115, 116 may still allow movement of the securing member 30, for example when then buttons 31, 32 are moved from first positions to second positions. The connector portion 113, 114, 115, 116 may be configured to be able to slide relative to the corresponding structure on the other part while still generally securing the securing member 30 to the other part.
As described above, the lid 4 and/or securing member 30 may connect to the frame 5 of the closure system 3. FIG. 8 shows a rear top perspective view of a frame 5 according to the present disclosure. The frame 5 may have an outer periphery 140 that generally defines the footprint of the frame 5. An outer skirt 141 may downwardly depend from the periphery 140 of the frame 5; the outer skirt 141 may terminate in a distal lower edge 142. The outer skirt 141 may be configured to fit over the outside of a container body's walls 10, 11, 12, 13 that define the opening 16, as shown in FIGS. 1-2. The outer skirt 141 may be configured to fit inside of the walls 10, 11, 12, 13 that define the container body's opening 16, thereby being substantially inset relative to a rim 124 or mouth of the container body 2, as shown in FIG. 23. An inset configuration may be advantageous because the lower edge 142 of the frame 5 is effectively hidden to the interior of the container body 2 and inaccessible to outside forces that may result in the frame 5 being pried off of the container body 2.
The frame 5 may include an upwardly projecting wall 143 near the periphery 140 of the frame 5. The upwardly projecting wall 143 may generally follow the shape of the periphery 140 and may be continuous or discontinuous about the periphery 140. A valley 144 may be located between the upwardly projecting wall 143 and at least a part of the upper surface 35 of the frame 5. The upwardly projecting wall 143 and/or the valley 144 (or functionally similar features, such as indents or projections) may help with the nesting and/or stacking of closures systems 3 or container systems 1, resulting in more stable storage and/or transport.
The frame 5 may include guide structures 145 that project away from the frame 5. The guide structures 145 may be located and configured to guide the securing member 30 along a predetermined path when the first and/or second buttons 31, 32 are operated. The guide structures 145 may, for example, be in the form of posts, ribs, grooves, clips, or a mixture thereof.
The securing member 30 may be relatively elongated and may thus be prone to undesirable bending when force is applied at one or both ends. Therefore, the guide structures 145 may be configured to inhibit such flexure. For example, the guide structures 145 may form a continuous or discontinuous rib that the securing member 30 can slide next to or over (if, for example, the securing member 30 is configured with an interior space 111 suitable for receiving the guide structures 145). The guide structures 145 may form a slot or channel that can receive the securing member 30 and restrict undesirable flexure.
The frame 5 may include a connecting portion 146 that facilitates a secure connection between the securing member 30 and the frame 5 so that the securing member 30 does not fall off under normal usage conditions. The connecting portion 146 may be configured to engage with a connecting portion 113, 114, 115, 116 on the securing member 30. For example, the connecting portion 146 of the frame 5 may be configured to receive a hook 116 or latch of the securing member 30. The connecting portion 146 of the frame 5 should be configured to engage with the securing member 30, but to also allow relative movement of the buttons 31, 32 from the first to the second positions. The connecting portion 146 may have a width 147 that is at least as wide as the distance that the buttons 31, 32 move between the first and second positions, e.g., to allow the securing member 30 to freely slide between the two positions. The connecting portion 146 may be configured so that the securing member 30 may not be removed without damaging the securing member 30 or other parts of the container system 1, so that attachment of the securing member 30 is functionally permanent. In other configurations, other portions of the container system may comprise connector portions 146 so that the securing member 30 may be attached to those other parts, such as the container body 2 or the lid 4.
The frame 5 may include a wall, for example a front wall 40. The wall 40 may project upwardly from the frame 5. The wall 40 may be configured to visually occlude at least a portion of the securing member 30. Such a wall 40 can help to improve the overall aesthetics of the container system 1 and can help to protect the securing member 30 from impact or foreign bodies, such as dirt, thereby maintaining the integrity and functioning of the closure system 3.
The frame 5 may include structures that are part of a biasing system 60. The frame 5 may include first, second, and optionally third support portions 65, 66, 67 that are adapted to receive and/or hold an elastic member 61. The support portions 65, 66, 67 may include recessed portions 69 that forms a receiving channel 70. The support portions 65, 66, 67 may include clip portions 71 that help to secure the elastic member. Gaps 72, 73 may be present between the first, second, and optionally third support portions 65, 66, 67. Suitable biasing systems 60 are discussed in more detail below.
The frame 5 may comprise a portion of a hinge 36 that results in the frame 5 being hingedly connected to the frame 5. For example, the frame 5 may include a hinge pin receiving portion 148 that is adapted to receive a hinge pin. The hinge pin may be a separate piece, or it may be an integral part of the lid 4. In another configuration, it is contemplated that the frame 5 could include a hinge pin or a projection that operates as such to interact with a hinge pin receiving portion on the lid 4.
FIG. 9 shows a bottom front perspective view of a frame 5 according to the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 9, the first and second buttons 31, 32 of the securing member 30 are visible, but the front wall 40 of the frame 5 substantially covers other portions of the securing member 30 when viewed from the front. It is contemplated that a lip 37 on the lid 4 may rest to the radially inner to, or radially outer to, a front wall 40 of the frame 5, relative to the opening 139 of the frame 5.
The frame 5 may include an inner wall 149 that helps to define an inner periphery 150 of the opening 139 of the frame 5. The inner wall 149 may depend downwardly away from the frame 5. The frame 5 may include an inner skirt 151 that is spaced apart from and/or located radially inward of the outer skirt 141. The inner skirt 151 may facilitate assembly or connection of the closure system 3 to a container body 2, for example, by fitting on the inside of a rim 124 or upper portion of a container body 2 and helping to guide the frame 5 into place. A rim 124 or upper portion of a container body 2 may be located between the outer skirt of the frame 5 and the inner wall 149 or inner skirt 151 when the frame 5 is attached to the container body 2. The inner skirt 151 may intersect and/or join with the inner wall 149 at an intersection 152.
FIG. 10 is a close-up view of a portion of the container system 1, as highlighted by circle C of FIG. 1, viewed from a front perspective view, looking from the outside of the container system 1 inwardly. The securing member 30 is connected to the frame 5 of the closure system 3. A space 117 is present between the securing member 30 (namely, the front wall 102) and the frame 5 (namely, the rim 39). When the lid 4 is in the closed position, the lip 37 of the lid 4 may fit into this space 117. The lip 37 therefore would cover the securing member 30, and the front wall 40 and rim 39 of the frame 5 would effectively hide the lower edge 41 of the lip 37, preventing prying fingers from gaining leverage to force the lid 4 open.
FIG. 11 is substantially the same portion of the container system 1 as in FIG. 10, but viewed from the inside of the container system 1 looking outwardly (e.g., from the rear wall 11 towards the front wall 10). From this view, the interlocking members 50, 51 of the securing member 30 are visible.
The stopping structures 107, 108, including the stopping surfaces 109, 110, are also visible in FIG. 11, as is the spring system 33. Furthermore, a gap 122, 123 is present next to each interlocking member 50, 51. The gap 122, 123 may be between an interlocking member 50, 51 and a stopping structure 107, 108. The gaps 122, 123 may be sized and positioned so that the complementary interlocking members 52, 53 may be capable of passing through the gaps 122, 123.
FIG. 12 shows a close-up of the portion of the lid 4 highlighted by circle A of FIG. 1. Complementary interlocking members 52, 53 are shown as projecting away from an inner surface 42 of the lid 4. The complementary interlocking members 52, 53 may project substantially downwardly when the lid 4 is in the closed position, for example towards the bottom wall 14. The locking system may include more than one complementary interlocking member, for example a first complementary locking member 52 and a second complementary locking member 53. The first and second complementary interlocking members 52, 53 may be spaced apart.
The complementary interlocking members 52, 53 are configured to engage with the interlocking members 50, 51 of the securing member 30 in a manner that secures the lid 4 in the closed position. The complementary interlocking members 52, 53 may be in the form of a latch, a catch, and/or a hook. The complementary interlocking members 52, 53 may include a substantially flat face 54. The flat face 54 may face upwardly, e.g., towards the inner surface 42 of the lid 4, when the lid 4 is in the closed position. The flat face 54 may be configured to engage with a corresponding surface 118, 119 of an interlocking member 50, 51.
The complementary interlocking members 52, 53 may include an angled face 55. The angled face 55 may be configured to facilitate movement of the lid 4 to the closed position by engaging with a corresponding surface on the securing member 30, frame 5, or body 2 to encourage at least a portion of the lid 4, securing member 30, frame 5, and/or body 2 to flex or otherwise deform enough to allow lid 4 to move to the fully closed position. When the angled face 55 is no longer engaging the corresponding surface, the flexed or deformed portion returns to its original position, and the lid 4 is securely closed with the interlocking members 50, 51 and complementary interlocking members 52, 53 engaged.
The lip 37 of the lid 4 may include support structures, such as ribs 56. Support ribs 56 may provide strength and/or support to the lip 37 as the lip 37 covers and protects the securing member 30 when the lid 4 is in the closed position.
The lid 4 may include one or more extending portions 164, 165. The extending portions 164, 165 may be part of a stability feature of the container system 1. The one or more extending portions 164, 165 may be configured to be received by one or more receiving portions 162, 163 when the lid is in the closed position. As shown in FIG. 12, the extending portions 164, 165 are in the form of ribs that downwardly depend from the inner surface 42 of the lid 4. The extending portions 164, 165 may be countered, for example angled or rounded, to facilitate their entry and reception into the receiving portions 162, 163. Although shown as ribs, the extending portions 164, 165 may have any suitable configuration, e.g., one or more posts.
FIG. 13 shows a close-up view of the portion highlighted by circle E of FIG. 3. The lid 4 is in the closed position. The interlocking member 50 of the securing member 30, which may be one or more latches, is engaged with the complementary locking member 52 of the lid 4, which may be one or more catches. More specifically, a flat surface 118 of the interlocking member 50 is adjacent to and facially engaged with a flat surface 54 of the complementary interlocking member 52.
The lip 37of the lid 4 may cover at least a portion of the securing member 30 and/or the entire locking system. The frame 5 may include a rim 39 located near a periphery 140 of the frame 5. When the lid 4 is in a closed position, a lower edge 41 of the lip 37 may reside radially inward to the rim 39 of the frame 5 with respect to the central axis 21. When the lip 37 of the lid 4 is inset relative to the frame 5, the lid 4 is more difficult to pry open in a manner that would otherwise circumvent the intended usage of the container system's locking system.
To open the container system 1, a user moves the first and second buttons 31, 32 from their first respective positions to their second respective positions, thereby disengaging the interlocking members 50, 51 from the complementary interlocking members 52, 53. FIGS. 14-15 schematically illustrate this process. Lines G, H, I, and J are provided for reference to show relative differences in position as the buttons 31, 32 move from the first positions to the second positions.
FIG. 14 schematically shows, from a top view, the securing member 30. In this schematic view, the lid 4 (not shown) is closed and the interlocking members 50, 51 of the securing member 30 are engaged with the complementary interlocking members 52, 53 (hidden underneath the securing member 30's interlocking members). In this resting position, the buttons 31, 32 are in their respective first positions.
In FIG. 15, force is applied to the buttons 31, 32 in directions M and N, respectively, and the buttons 31, 32 have moved from their respective first positions to their respective second positions. Here, the buttons 31, 32 have moved closer to each other. The spring system 33 is compressed and stores potential energy. The interlocking members 50, 51 have slid past the complementary interlocking members 52, 53 so that the outer edges 92, 94 of the interlocking members 50, 51 has cleared an inner edge of the complementary interlocking member 53, 54. The lid 4 may now be opened. Furthermore, the stopping surface 109, 110 of the stopping structure 107, 108 may be soon in contact with an outer edge of the complementary interlocking member 51, 52. Due to this contact, the buttons 31, 32 cannot be moved any farther.
When the first and second buttons 31, 32 are released, the spring system 33 releases its potential energy and urges the buttons 31, 32 back to their respective first positions. With the lid 4 in the open position, the interlocking members 50, 51 no longer engage with the complementary interlocking members 52, 53.
FIG. 16 shows a close-up view of the portion of the container system 1 highlighted by circle B of FIG. 1, which includes a biasing system 60. The lid 4 is hingedly connected to the frame 5 at a hinge 36. The lid 4 may swivel about a hinge axis 20 from the closed position to the open position and vice versa.
The closure system 3 may include a biasing system 60. The biasing system 60 may be configured to bias the lid 4 toward the open position.
The biasing system 60 may include an elastic member 61. When the lid 4 is in the closed position, the elastic member 61 may be elastically deformed, thereby storing potential energy. When the interlocking members 50, 51 are disengaged from the complementary interlocking members 52, 54, the deformed elastic member 61 may return to its original shape and urge the lid 4 to, or at least towards, its open position.
As shown in FIG. 17, the elastic member 61 may include a first end 62, a second end 63, and a middle portion 64 disposed between the first and second ends 62, 63. At least one portion, for example, the first and/or second ends 62, 63, may be relatively enlarged so as to be better secured in a receiving channel 70 and/or by a clip 71, as described below. The elastic members 61 shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 are enlarged at both the first and second ends 62, 63, meaning that the average diameter of the member at the first and second ends 62, 63 is greater than the diameter at the middle portion 64. Thus, the elastic member 61 can be effectively secured at the two ends 62, 63, but be sufficiently deformed at the middle portion 64.
The configuration and material of the elastic member 61 may be selected by one of ordinary skill so as to provide desired properties. The elastic member 61may be characterized by a Tensile Elongation value (200 mm/min; Across Flow : Break; 2.00 mm) of about 300% to about 500%, or from about 350% to about 450%, or about 400%, as determined according to test method ISO 37. The elastic member 61 may be characterized by a Tensile Elongation (200 mm/min; Flow : Break; 2.00 mm) of about 300% to about 500%, or from about 350% to about 450%, or about 380%, as determined according to test method ISO 37. The elastic member 61 may be characterized by a Shore Hardness value (Shore A; 3 sec) of about 40 to about 100, or from about 50 to about 80, or from about 55 to about 65, or about 60, as determined according to test method ISO 868. The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) test methods are known and accessible to one of ordinary skill in the art.
The elastic member 61 may comprise any suitable resilient material, preferably silicone, rubber, or a thermoplastic elastomer.
The elastic member 61 may have any suitable shape. The elastic member 61 may have a substantially rectangular, circular, or ovular cross-section.
Returning to FIG. 16, the closure system 3 may include a first support portion 65 and a second support portion 66. The first and second support portions 65, 66 may be located on the frame 5. The first and second support portions 65, 66 may extend away from a base surface 68 of the frame 5, for example extend upwardly away from the base surface 68. There may be at least one gap 72, 73 between the first and second support portions 65, 66.
The first and/or second support portions 65, 66 may include a recessed portion 69 or otherwise concave area that forms a receiving channel 70 configured to receive and/or hold the elastic member 61. The recessed portion 69 may be in the shape of a “U” or at least part of a circle. The first and/or second support portions 65, 66 may include a clip portion 71 that helps to secure the elastic member 61 in place, for example by friction, particularly when at least a portion of the elastic member 61 is enlarged relative to another portion. The clip portion 71 may include a space that is narrower than the widest portion of the receiving channel 70, so that the elastic portion 61 may be pushed through the space in the clip portion 71 but be challenging to remove.
The closure system 3 may include at least a third support portion 67. The third support portion 67 may extend away from, for example upwardly away from, the base surface 68 of the frame 5. The third support portion 67 may include a recessed portion that is configured to align with the receiving channel 70. The third support portion 67 may be located between the first and second support portions 65, 66. A gap 72, 73 may be present between the third support portion 67 and either or both of the first and second support portions 65, 66. A first gap 72 may reside between the first and third support portions 65, 67; a second gap 73 may reside between the second and third support portions 66, 67. The third support portion 67 may or may not include a clip that helps to secure the elastic member 61.
The lid 4 may include at least one projection 74, 75 that extends away from the inner surface 42 of the lid 4. The at least one projection 74, 75 may be located at a position on the lid 4 so as to coincide and/or fit into the at least one gap 72, 73 located between the first and second support portions 65, 66 when the lid 4 is in the closed position. The at least one projection 74, 75 may include a receiving portion 76, 77 configured to contact the elastic member when the lid 4 is in the closed position. When the lid 4 is in the closed position, the projection 74, 75 contacts the elastic member 61, thereby deforming it. The receiving portion 76, 77 of the projection 74, 75 may be configured to fit the general shape of the elastic member 61 so that the elastic member 61 is relatively held in place while being deformed, rather than, e.g., rolling away from the projection 61. When the lid 4 is in a closed position, the projection 74, 75 may deform the elastic member 61 into the gap 72, 73 between the first and second support portions 65, 66. The lid 4 may include at least two projections 76, 77, where a first projection 74 is located at a position on the lid 4 so as to coincide and/or fit into a first gap 72, and a second projection 75 is located at a position on the lid 4 so as to coincide and/or fit into a second gap 73.
FIGS. 18-21 show schematic front-view representations of exemplary biasing systems 60 and the resulting deformation patterns of the elastic member 61 when the lid 4 is in the closed position.
FIG. 18 shows the elastic member 61 being deformed into a gap between first and second support structures 65, 66 by one projection 74 extending from the lid 4. Here, the elastic member is bent into a substantially U- or V-shape. The biasing system 60 of FIG. 19 is substantially similar to FIG. 18, but the projection 74 is relatively wider than in FIG. 18. The biasing system 60 of FIG. 20 includes two projections 74, 75 extending from the lid 4. As configured in FIG. 20, the elastic member 61 is deformed into substantially to the same shape as in FIG. 19, but at two smaller contact points instead of a single larger one. The biasing system of FIG. 21 includes first, second, and third support structures 65, 66, 67 and two projections 74, 75 extending from the lid 4. The two projections 74, 75 deform the elastic members into respective gaps 72, 73 between the support structures 65, 66, 67. Here, the elastic member 61 is bent into a substantially W-shape.
It is understood that the configurations shown and described herein are merely exemplary, and that one of ordinary skill is able to contemplate other configurations in light of the disclosure herein. For example, the support portion that hold the elastic member may be located on an inner surface of the lid and extend away therefrom, and the projections may be on the base surface of the plane. It is also contemplated that one or both ends of the elastic member will extend past either or both sides of one or more support portions, where they can be deformed by corresponding projections, for example into an upside-down U-shape. In such a configuration, the closure system may include only one support portion, the middle portion of the elastic member may be enlarged, e.g., so as to be better gripped or secured by the support portion) compared to the end portions, which may be relatively thinner so as to facilitate deformation.
FIG. 22 shows a cross-section view of the biasing system 60 as highlighted by circle F in FIG. 3. The elastic member 61 is shown as residing in the channel formed by a support structure 65.
FIG. 23 shows a cross-section view of an alternative biasing system 60 a that may be suitable for closure systems 3 and container systems 1 according to the present disclosure. The biasing system 60 a of FIG. 23 may be located at or near the hinge 36 of a container system 1, such as at the location of the portion highlighted by circle F in FIG. 3.
In the container system 1 of FIG. 23, the closure system 3, comprising a lid 4 hingedly attached to a frame 5, is connected to a container body 2. The lid 4 is in the closed position. The biasing system 60 a includes an elastic member 61 a that biases the lid 4 towards the open position. The elastic member 61 a is connected to the lid 4 at a first port 78 configured to receive the elastic member 61 a, and to the frame 5 at a second port 79 configured to receive the elastic member 61 a. When the lid 4 is in the closed position, the elastic member 61 a is deformed, for example into a C-shape, and stores potential energy. When the interlocking members 50, 51 are disengaged from the complementary interlocking members 52, 53 (not shown in FIG. 23), the deformed elastic member 61 a may return to its original shape, for example an L-shape or a substantially straight line, and bias the lid 4 to or towards its open position. In FIG. 23, the elastic member 61 a is shown as being substantially attached to outer surfaces of both the lid 4 and the frame 5, which may be advantageous as taking up less space in the interior volume. However, it is contemplated that the elastic member 61 a could be also attached to an inner surface 42 of the lid 4, the frame 5, or both.
The elastic member 61 a may be co-molded with one or more of the parts of the container system 1, for example by bi-injected molding. For example, the elastic member 61 a may be formed via co-molding (e.g., bi-injected molding) with the frame 5 and/or the lid 4. The elastic member 61 a may be a different material than the frame 5 and/or the lid 4. The elastic member 61 a may be a thermoplastic elastomer. Thermoplastic elastomers may be desirable compared to other materials such as metal springs, as thermoplastic elastomers will not corrode, do not have sharp edges that could puncture or abrade materials contained in the container system 1, and are typically recyclable.
The biasing system 60 may include a torsion, leaf, and/or compression spring. The biasing system 60 may include a coil spring (not shown), which may be made of metal or other suitable resilient material.
FIG. 24 shows additional or alternative features that may be included in the container systems 1 and/or closure systems 3 of the present disclosure. The lid 4 is in the closed position and has a generally oval shape. The lid 4 is hingedly connected to the frame 5 by two hinges 36 a, 36 b. The frame 5 is connected to the container body 2 and is inset relative to an upper edge 124 of the body 2. In this illustration, the lid 4 does not include a lip that covers the securing member 30, the intermediate portions 99, 100 of which are visible when the lid 4 is in the closed position. The buttons 31, 32 include surface irregularities 125 in the form of ribs and/or grooves to provide a more grippable surface.
The closure system 3 of FIG. 24 includes a tamper-evident feature 127. As illustrated, the tamper-evident feature 127 is a removeable tab. The removeable tab 127 is a rigid structure and is connected to the first and second intermediate portions 99, 100 of the securing member 30. When the tab 127 is in place and connected to the intermediate portions 99, 100, the buttons 31, 32 cannot be moved to their respective second positions and the lid 4 cannot be opened. However, the tamper-evident feature 127 includes a line of weakness 128, 129 where the removeable tab 127 is joined to the intermediate portions. The tab 127 may be removed by breaking the material (e.g., plastic) at the line of weakness 128, 129. Once the tab 127 is removed, the buttons 31, 32 may be moved, and the lid 4 may be opened.
FIG. 25 shows another suitable configuration of the container systems 1 described herein. Here, the securing member 30 is connected to the container body 2. The container body 2 includes a lip 130 that substantially covers the securing member 30, except for the first and second buttons 31, 32. The closure system 3 comprises a lid 4 and a frame 5. The frame 5 of the closure system 3 may be snapped onto the container body 2, the upper rim of which includes a plurality of slots, which may include major slots 132 and/or minor slots 131, configured to receive connecting tabs (not shown).
FIG. 26 shows another suitable configuration of the container systems 1 described herein. Here, the lid 4 is in a closed position. The securing member 30 is primarily connected to the lid 4. The frame 5 includes recesses 133, 134 that are configured to receive the buttons 31, 32 of the securing member 30. The hinge 36 has a low profile and is integrated into the closure system 3. The biasing system 60 includes an elastic member 61 a in the form of an insert that will bias the lid 4 towards the open position when the locking system disengages. The insert 61 a may be made, for example, of a thermoplastic elastomer.
FIG. 27 shows the container system 1 of FIG. 26 with the lid 4 in the open position. As described above, the securing member 30 is connected to the lid 4. The securing member 30 is a single piece and includes elbows 135, 136. The securing member 30 also includes a latch 50.
Guide structures in the form of posts 137, 138 project away from the inner surface 42 of the lid 4. The posts 137, 138 act as guides to direct the motion of the securing member 30 when the buttons 13, 32 are squeezed. The posts 137, 138 may also act as connecting portions, helping to secure the securing member 30 to the lid 4.
As the buttons are squeezed, the securing member 30 flexes primarily at the elbows 135, 136, which are configured to pull the latch 50 of the securing member 30 towards the hinge 36 and away from a catch located on the frame 5 (not shown). When the squeezing force is removed from the buttons 31, 32, the flexed elbows 135, 136, acting as the spring system 33, return to their original position and move the buttons 31, 32 to their respective first positions.
FIG. 28 shows an alternative configuration of the container system 1 of FIG. 26. Here, the securing member is present in two separate portions 30 a, 30 b. Posts 137, 138 that project downwardly away from the inner surface 42 of the lid 4 may act as guide structures directing the motion of the securing members 30 a, 30 b and/or as connecting portions to secure the securing members 30 a, 30 b to the lid 4. When the lid 4 is closed, the latches 50, 51 engage with a complementary interlocking member, which may be located on the frame 5. The posts 137, 138 may be configured so that when the buttons 31, 32 are pressed inwardly, the latches 50, 51 move away from the complementary interlocking member, allowing the lid 4 move to the open position. The posts 137, 138 may be configured so that when the buttons 31, 32 are operated, the latches 50, 51 move away from each other. The posts 137, 138 may be configured so that when the buttons are operated, the latches 50, 51 move towards each other.
As shown in FIG. 28, the securing member may be in at least two pieces, e.g., a first piece 30 a and a second piece 30 b. It is contemplated, however, that the securing member 30, when operated in this general configuration, could be formed as a single piece. For example, the two pieces 30 a, 30 b may include a flexible portion, e.g., in the shape of a “V” or a “W” (not shown), that may flex inwardly or otherwise become more narrow when the two buttons 31, 32 are operated. The flexible portion may be a spring system 33 that helps to bias the buttons 31, 32 to the respective first positions.
The present disclosure relates to a container system 1 comprising a container body 2 comprising walls 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 that define a closed end, an opening 16, and an interior volume 17; a closure system 3 comprising a hinged lid 4, and preferably a frame 5, where the lid 4 is selectively moveable between a closed position that covers the opening 16 and an open position that allows access to the interior volume 17, where the hinged lid 4 is maintained in the closed position when a first interlocking member 50 is engaged with a complementary interlocking member 52; and a securing member 30 that is non-integral to the body 2 and non-integral to the lid 4 (and preferably non-integral to the frame 5), the securing member 30 comprising a first button 31 and a second button 32 that is spaced apart from (but preferably joined to) the first button 31, each of the first and second buttons 31, 32 being biased to respective first positions and each being moveable to respective second positions, wherein moving the first and second buttons 31, 32 to their respective second positions results in at least the first interlocking member 50 disengaging from the complementary interlocking member 52 and enables the lid 4 to be moved from the closed position to the open position. When the first and second buttons 31, 32 are moved to their second positions, a second interlocking member 51 may disengage from a second complementary interlocking member 53, enabling the lid 4 to be moved to the open position. The first button 31 (and optionally the second button 32) may be operatively connected to the first interlocking member 50; the second button 32 may be operatively connected to the second interlocking member 51.

Contents

The container systems 1 may be adapted to contain, and may contain, any suitable contents, materials, or compositions. Typical materials and compositions include, but are not limited to, fabric care treatments, hard surface cleaners, soaps, shampoos, conditioning agents, pesticides, paint, solvents, industrial chemicals, industrial hardware (e.g., nails, screws, etc.), medicines, pills, food, and the like. The material may be water-sensitive material, meaning that the material has a tendency to dissolve or degrade when exposed to liquid water or water vapor.
The material may be a consumer product. Suitable consumer products may include, but are not limited to, compositions for treating hair (human, dog, and/or cat), including bleaching, coloring, dyeing, conditioning, growing, removing, retarding growth, shampooing, and/or styling; deodorants and antiperspirants; personal cleansing; color cosmetics; products, and/or methods relating to treating skin (human, dog, and/or cat), including application of creams, lotions, and other topically applied products for consumer use; products and/or methods relating to orally administered materials for enhancing the appearance of hair, skin, and/or nails (human, dog, and/or cat); shaving; body sprays; and fine fragrances like colognes and perfumes; compositions for treating fabrics, hard surfaces and any other surfaces in the area of fabric and home care, including: air care, car care, dishwashing, fabric conditioning (including softening), laundry detergency, laundry and rinse additive and/or care, hard surface cleaning and/or treatment, and other cleaning for consumer or institutional use; products relating to disposable absorbent and/or non-absorbent articles including adult incontinence garments, bibs, diapers, training pants, infant and toddler care wipes; hand soaps, shampoos, lotions, oral care implements, and clothing; products such as wet or dry bath tissue, facial tissue, disposable handkerchiefs, disposable towels, and/or wipes; products relating to catamenial pads, incontinence pads, interlabial pads, panty liners, pessaries, sanitary napkins, tampons and tampon applicators, and/or wipes.
The consumer product may be a household care product, preferably a cleaning composition, more preferably a cleaning composition in the form of a unitized dose article. The container system 1 may contain a household care composition in the interior volume. The household care composition may be selected from the group consisting of a fabric care treatment composition, a dish detergent composition, or a mixture thereof. The consumer product, the household care product and/or household care composition may be in the form of a water-soluble unit dose article.
Non-limiting examples of useful compositions include light duty and heavy duty liquid detergent compositions, hard surface cleaning compositions (such as dish care compositions, including compositions intended for use in an automatic dishwashing machine), detergent gels commonly used for laundry, bleach and laundry additives, shampoos, body washes, and other personal care compositions. Compositions may take the form of a liquid, gel, solid, a unitized dose article, or mixtures thereof. Liquid compositions may comprise a solid. Solids may include powder or agglomerates, such as micro-capsules, beads, noodles or one or more pearlized balls or mixtures thereof. Such a solid element may provide a technical benefit, through the wash or as a pre-treat, delayed or sequential release component; additionally or alternatively, it may provide an aesthetic effect.
In some aspects, the compositions may comprise one or more of the following non-limiting list of ingredients: opacifier; antioxidant; fabric care benefit agent; detersive enzyme; deposition aid; rheology modifier; builder; bleaching agent; bleach precursor; bleach catalyst; chelant; perfume; whitening agent; pearlescent agent; enzyme stabilizing systems; scavenging agents including fixing agents for anionic dyes, complexing agents for anionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof; optical brighteners or fluorescers; soil release polymers; dispersants; suds suppressors; dyes; colorants; hydrotropes such as toluenesulfonates, cumenesulfonates and naphthalenesulfonates; color speckles; colored beads, spheres or extrudates; clay softening agents; corrosion inhibitors and/or anti-tarnish agents; rinse aids. Additionally or alternatively, the compositions may comprise surfactants and/or solvent systems.
The composition may be a flowable composition that can be scooped, such as a free-flowing granular or powdered composition. In such cases, the container system 1 may further comprise a scoop adapted to fit into the container system 1 and to scoop the scoopable composition.
The container systems 1 described herein are particularly useful for containing compositions in the form of an article. FIG. 29 shows an example of a unitized dose article 600. The article 600 may be suitable to be grasped by an adult human hand. Such articles 600 may have an article width 602 of from about 10 mm to about 100 mm, or from about 20 mm to about 70 mm, or from about 35 mm to about 55 mm, or from about 40 mm to about 50 mm. If the article 600 is rectangular in shape, the article width 602 is measured as the greatest distance between two parallel sides. When an article 600 has a variable width, the article width 602 is the average of such widths. Such articles 600 may have a height 604, of from about 10 mm to about 100 mm, or from about 15 mm to about 70 mm, or from about 20 mm to about 50 mm, or from about 25 mm to about 35 mm. When an article 600 has a variable height, the article height 604 is measured at the maximum height of the article.
Typically, the container systems 1 described herein are useful for containing articles 600 of unitized doses of a composition (e.g., in counts of 15, 25, 50, 66, 77, etc.), typically of a cleaning composition, more typically of a laundry detergent or hard surface treatment composition. The unitized dose article 600 may be a pouch. The pouch may be formed from a water-soluble film 620, such as a polyvinyl alcohol film, including those available from MonoSol, LLC. The film 620 may encapsulate the composition in a compartment. The pouch may comprise a single compartment, or it or may comprise multiple compartments 630, 640, 650.
The pouch may contain various compositions, which may be of varying colors that may be seen from outside of the pouch. A multi-compartment pouch may contain the same or different compositions in each separate compartment. The compartments may be side-by-side or superposed, for example one or two smaller compartments 640, 650 superposed on one larger compartment 630. This multi-compartment feature may be utilized to keep compositions containing incompatible ingredients (e.g., bleach and enzymes) physically separated or partitioned from each other. It is believed that such partitioning may expand the useful life and/or decrease physical instability of such ingredients.
The compositions of the unitized dose articles 600 typically have low levels of water. In some aspects, the compositions 600 comprise less than about 50%, or less than about 30%, or less than about 20%, or less than about 15%, or less than about 12%, or less than about 10%, or less than about 8%, or less than 5%, or less than 2% water by weight of the composition 600. In some aspects, the composition 600 comprises from about 0.1% to about 20%, or from about 1% to about 12%, or from about 5% to about 10% water by weight of the composition 600.

Methods

The present disclosure relates to methods of assembling and using container systems 1 according to the present disclosure. Descriptions of suitable systems and features thereof are provided in more detail above and are incorporated here in full with regard to the methods that follow.
The present disclosure relates to a method of assembling a container system 1, where a closure system 3 according to the present disclosure is secured to a container body 2 according to the present disclosure.
The method of assembling a container system 1 may comprise the steps of providing a container body 2, the container body 2 comprising walls 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 that define an interior volume 17 and an opening 16 that provides throughaccess to the interior volume 17. The method may also comprise the step of securing a closure system 3 to the container body 2, the closure system 3 comprising a hinged lid 4 that is selectively moveable between a closed position and an open position. The lid 4 may effectively blocking access to the interior volume 17 when in the closed position and effectively allowing access to the interior volume 17 when in the open position.
The closure system 3 of the present methods may further comprise a locking system. The locking system may comprise a securing member 30 that is non-integral to the body 2 and non-integral to the lid 4, the securing member 30 comprising a first button 31 and a second button 32 that is spaced apart from the first button 31. Each of the first and second buttons 31, 32 may have a first position. Each of the first and second buttons 31, 32 may be moveable to a second position. Each of the first and second buttons 31, 32 may be resiliently biased to their respective first positions. The first button 31 may be operatively connected to a first interlocking member 50 located substantially between the first and second buttons 31, 32. The first interlocking member 50 may be selectively engageable with a complementary locking member 52. The lid 4 may be maintained in the closed position when the first locking member 50 and the complementary locking member 52 are engaged. The lid 4 may be moveable from the closed position to the open position when both the first and second buttons 31, 32 are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, resulting in disengagement of the first interlocking member 50 and the complementary interlocking member 52. The securing member may further comprise a second interlocking member 51; the second button 32 may be operatively connected to the second interlocking member 51.
The method of assembling the container system 1 may further comprise a filling step. The step may include providing contents, such as a consumer product (e.g., a water-soluble unit dose article 600, which may contain a detergent composition), to the interior volume of the container body. Providing the contents may occur before the step of securing the closure system 3 to the container body 2. Proving the contents before the securing step takes place may be advantageous because the opening 16 of the container body 2 may be relatively larger than the opening (e.g., the frame opening 139) of the closure system 3 when the lid 4 is in the open position. Additionally, providing the contents before securing the closure system 3 means that the closure system 3 can be provided with the lid 4 in the closed position, so that the process does not require an additional step of closing the lid 4 following the filling step.
Providing the contents may also occur after the step of securing the closure system 3 to the container body. This may be advantageous in that the container systems 1 could be assembled, stored, and then filled at a later time and/or at a different location to provide flexibility to the manufacturer.
The present methods also relate to methods of using container systems 1 and closures systems 3 of the present disclosure. For example, the present disclosure relates to a method of accessing the interior volume 17 of a container system 1. The container system 1 includes a securing member 30, as described herein. The method comprises the step of moving the first and second buttons 31, 32 of a securing member 30, which may be located on a frame 5, from respective first positions to respective second positions, thereby disengaging interlocking members 50, 51 of the securing member 30 from complementary interlocking members 52, 53 found elsewhere on the container system 1, e.g., on a lid 4. The disengagement allows the lid 4 to be moved from a closed position to an open position. A biasing system 60, which may comprise an elastic member 61, may urge the lid 4 towards the open position. The step of moving the first and second buttons 31, 32 from their respective first positions to their respective second positions may be performed with a single hand, for example, by placing a finger on each button and squeezing. The buttons may be sized, configured, and located to facilitate ease of use with a single hand, preferably an adult hand.

Combinations

Specifically contemplated combinations of the disclosure are herein described in the following lettered paragraphs. These combinations are intended to be illustrative in nature and are not intended to be limiting.
A. A container system comprising: a container body comprising walls that define an interior volume and an opening that provides throughaccess to the interior volume; a closure system comprising a hinged lid that is selectively moveable between a closed position that covers the opening and an open position that allows access to the interior volume, where the hinged lid is maintained in the closed position when at least a first interlocking member is engaged with a complementary interlocking member; and a securing member that is non-integral to the body and non-integral to the lid, the securing member comprising a first button and a second button that is spaced apart from, but joined to, the first button, each of the first and second buttons being biased to respective first positions and each being moveable to respective second positions, wherein when the first and second buttons are simultaneously in their respective second positions, the lid is able to be moved from the closed position to the open position because at least the first interlocking member disengages from the complementary interlocking member.
B. A container system according to paragraph A, wherein the container system further comprises a frame, the frame being connectable to the container body and hingeably connectable to the lid, where the securing member is also non-integral to the frame.
C. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-B, wherein the securing member is secured to the lid, the body, or the frame, preferably the frame.
D. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-C, wherein the first button and the second button are spaced apart by a distance of from about 50 mm to about 150 mm when in the respective first positions.
E. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-D, wherein the distance between the first and second buttons when the buttons are each in the respective second position is less than the distance between the buttons when the buttons are each in the respective first position.
F. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-E, wherein the first and second buttons are both near a front wall of the container body.
G. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-F, wherein the securing member is substantially parallel to a hinge axis about which the hinged lid rotatably opens.
H. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-G, wherein a spring system resiliently biases the first and second buttons to their respective first positions.
I. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-H, wherein the spring system resiliently biases the first button to its first position and independently resiliently biases the second button to its first position.
J. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-I, wherein the spring system is part of, preferably integrally part of, the securing member.
K. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-G, wherein the spring system comprises flexible plastic.
L. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-K, wherein the spring system is substantially in the shape of any of the letters M, N, S, U, V, or W.
M. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-L, wherein moving the first and second buttons from the first and second positions, respectively, does not deform the lid or the body.
N. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-M, wherein the second button is operatively connected to a second interlocking member.
O. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-N, wherein the first and second members each comprise an outer edge, wherein the distance between the outer edge of the first interlocking member and the outer edge of the second interlocking members is from about 10 mm to about 60 mm, preferably from about 10 mm to about 40 mm, more preferably from about 10 mm to about 25 mm, when the first and second buttons are in their respective first positions.
P. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-O, wherein the first interlocking member is located between the first button and the second interlocking member.
Q. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-P, wherein the second interlocking member is located between the first interlocking member and the second button.
R. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-Q, wherein the second interlocking member is selectively engageable with a second complementary locking member, wherein moving the first button from its respective first position to its respective second position results in disengagement of the first locking member and the first complementary locking member, and wherein moving the second button from its respective first position to its respective second position results in disengagement of the second locking member and the second complementary locking member.
S. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-R, wherein the securing member comprises an intermediate portion located between the first button and the first interlocking member, the intermediate portion comprising a connector portion configured to facilitate connection of the securing member to the body and/or closure system.
T. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-S, wherein the container system comprises a biasing system that biases the lid towards the open position.
U. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-T, wherein the biasing system comprises an elastic member.
V. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-U, wherein a projection located on the closure system, preferably on the lid, elastically deforms the elastic member when the lid is in the closed position.
W. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-V, wherein the interior volume comprises contents selected from the group consisting of: consumer products, pesticides, paint, solvents, industrial chemicals, industrial hardware, medicines, pills, food, and combinations thereof, preferably consumer products, more preferably a household care product.
X. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-W, wherein the contents comprise a consumer product comprising a household care product, where the household care product comprises a household care composition selected from the group consisting of a fabric care treatment composition, a dish detergent composition, or a mixture thereof.
Y. A container system according to any of paragraphs A-X, wherein the contents comprise a consumer product in the form of a water-soluble unit dose article.
Z. A method of opening a container system according to any of paragraphs A-Y, the method comprising the steps of: providing a container system according to any of paragraphs A-X, moving the first button and the second button so that the buttons are simultaneously located in their respective second positions, opening the hinged lid, and optionally accessing contents stored in the interior volume.
AA. A closure system suitable for attachment to an open end of a container body, the closure system comprising a lid, a frame, and a securing member, the frame being configured to attach to an open end of a container body, the frame having an outer periphery and an inner periphery, the inner periphery defining a frame opening; the lid being hingedly connected to the frame, the lid being selectively moveable between a closed position and an open position, the lid effectively covering the frame opening when in the closed position and effectively allowing access through the frame opening when in the open position; the securing member being non-integral to the frame and non-integral to the lid, the securing member being connected to at least one of the frame and/or lid, the securing member comprising a first button and a second button that is spaced apart from the first button, each of the first and second buttons being moveable from a respective first position to a respective second position, each of the first and second buttons being resiliently biased the respective first positions, the first button being operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first and second buttons, where the first interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, where the lid is maintained in the closed position when the first locking member and the complementary locking member are engaged, and where the lid is moveable from the closed position to the open position when both the first and second buttons are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, resulting in disengagement of the first locking member and the complementary locking member.
BB. A closure system according to paragraph AA, wherein the second button is operatively connected to a second interlocking member located substantially between the first and second buttons, where the second interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, preferably a second complementary locking member.
CC. A closure system according to any of paragraphs AA-BB, wherein the securing member is connected to the frame, and wherein the complementary locking member is located on the lid.
DD. A container system comprising: a container body comprising walls that define an interior volume and an opening that provides throughaccess to the interior volume; a closure system comprising a hinged lid that is selectively moveable between a closed position and an open position, the lid effectively blocking access to the interior volume when in the closed position and effectively allowing access to the interior volume when in the open position; a locking system comprising a securing member that is non-integral to the body and non-integral to the lid, the securing member comprising a first button and a second button that is spaced apart from the first button, each of the first and second buttons having a first position, each of the first and second buttons being moveable to a second position, each of the first and second buttons being resiliently biased to their respective first positions, and said first button being operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first and second buttons, where the first interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, where the lid is maintained in the closed position when the first interlocking member and the complementary interlocking member are engaged, and where the lid is moveable from the closed position to the open position when both the first and second buttons are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, resulting in disengagement of the first interlocking member and the complementary locking member.
EE. A method of assembling a container system (e.g., a container system according to any of paragraphs A-Z), the method comprising the steps of: providing a container body, the container body comprising walls that define an interior volume and an opening that provides throughaccess to the interior volume; securing a closure system to the container body, the closure system comprising a hinged lid that is selectively moveable between a closed position and an open position, the lid effectively blocking access to the interior volume when in the closed position and effectively allowing access to the interior volume when in the open position; the closure system further comprising a locking system, the locking system comprising: a securing member that is non-integral to the body and non-integral to the lid, the securing member comprising a first button and a second button that is spaced apart from the first button, each of the first and second buttons having a first position, each of the first and second buttons being moveable to a second position, each of the first and second buttons being resiliently biased to their respective first positions, and said first button being operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first and second buttons, where the first interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, where the lid is maintained in the closed position when the first locking member and the complementary locking member are engaged, and where the lid is moveable from the closed position to the open position when both the first and second buttons are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, resulting in disengagement of the first locking member and the complementary locking member.
The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm.”
Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.
While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A container system comprising:

a container body comprising walls that define an interior volume and an opening that provides throughaccess to the interior volume;

a closure system comprising a hinged lid that is selectively moveable between a closed position that covers the opening and an open position that allows access to the interior volume,

where the hinged lid is maintained in the closed position when at least a first interlocking member is engaged with a complementary interlocking member; and

a securing member that is non-integral to the body and non-integral to the lid,

the securing member comprising a first button and a second button that is spaced apart from, but joined to, the first button,

each of the first and second buttons being biased to respective first positions and each being moveable to respective second positions,

wherein when the first and second buttons are simultaneously in their respective second positions, the lid is able to be moved from the closed position to the open position because at least the first interlocking member disengages from the complementary interlocking member.

2. A container system according to claim 1, wherein the container system further comprises a frame, the frame being connectable to the container body and hingeably connectable to the lid, where the securing member is also non-integral to the frame.

3. A container system according to claim 2, wherein the securing member is secured to the lid, the body, or the frame, preferably the frame.

4. A container system according to claim 1, wherein the first button and the second button are spaced apart by a distance of from about 50 mm to about 150 mm when in the respective first positions.

5. A container system according to claim 1, wherein the distance between the first and second buttons when the buttons are each in the respective second position is less than the distance between the buttons when the buttons are each in the respective first position.

6. A container system according to claim 1, wherein the first and second buttons are both near a front wall of the container body.

7. A container system according to claim 1, wherein the securing member is substantially parallel to a hinge axis about which the hinged lid rotatably opens.

8. A container system according to claim 1, wherein a spring system resiliently biases the first and second buttons to their respective first positions.

9. A container system according to claim 8, wherein the spring system resiliently biases the first button to its first position and independently resiliently biases the second button to its first position.

10. A container system according to claim 8, wherein the spring system is part of, preferably integrally part of, the securing member.

11. A container system according to claim 8, wherein the spring system comprises flexible plastic.

12. A container system according to claim 8, wherein the spring system is substantially in the shape of any of the letters M, N, S, U, V, or W.

13. A container system according to claim 1, wherein moving the first and second buttons from the first and second positions, respectively, does not deform the lid or the body.

14. A container system according to claim 1, wherein the second button is operatively connected to a second interlocking member.

15. A container system according to claim 1, wherein the first and second members each comprise an outer edge, wherein the distance between the outer edge of the first interlocking member and the outer edge of the second interlocking members is from about 10 mm to about 60 mm when the first and second buttons are in their respective first positions.

16. A container system according to claim 14, wherein the first interlocking member is located between the first button and the second interlocking member.

17. A container system according to claim 16, wherein the second interlocking member is located between the first interlocking member and the second button.

18. A container system according to claim 14,

wherein the second interlocking member is selectively engageable with a second complementary locking member,

wherein moving the first button from its respective first position to its respective second position results in disengagement of the first locking member and the first complementary locking member, and

wherein moving the second button from its respective first position to its respective second position results in disengagement of the second locking member and the second complementary locking member.

19. A container system according to claim 1, wherein the securing member comprises an intermediate portion located between the first button and the first interlocking member, the intermediate portion comprising a connector portion configured to facilitate connection of the securing member to the body and/or closure system.

20. A container system according to claim 1, wherein the container system comprises a biasing system that biases the lid towards the open position.

21. A container system according to claim 20, wherein the biasing system comprises an elastic member.

22. A container system according to claim 21, wherein a projection located on the closure system, preferably on the lid, elastically deforms the elastic member when the lid is in the closed position.

23. A container system according to claim 1, wherein the interior volume comprises contents selected from the group consisting of: consumer products, pesticides, paint, solvents, industrial chemicals, industrial hardware, medicines, pills, food, and combinations thereof, preferably consumer products, more preferably a household care product.

24. A container system according to claim 23, wherein the contents comprise a consumer product comprising a household care product, where the household care product comprises a household care composition selected from the group consisting of a fabric care treatment composition, a dish detergent composition, or a mixture thereof.

25. A container system according to claim 23, wherein the contents comprise a consumer product in the form of a water-soluble unit dose article.

26. A method of opening a container system according to claim 1, the method comprising the steps of:

providing a container system according to claim 1,

moving the first button and the second button so that the buttons are simultaneously located in their respective second positions,

opening the hinged lid, and

optionally accessing contents stored in the interior volume.

27. A closure system suitable for attachment to an open end of a container body, the closure system comprising a lid, a frame, and a securing member,

the frame being configured to attach to an open end of a container body, the frame having an outer periphery and an inner periphery, the inner periphery defining a frame opening;

the lid being hingedly connected to the frame, the lid being selectively moveable between a closed position and an open position,

the lid effectively covering the frame opening when in the closed position and effectively allowing access through the frame opening when in the open position;

the securing member being non-integral to the frame and non-integral to the lid,

the securing member being connected to at least one of the frame and/or lid,

the securing member comprising a first button and a second button that is spaced apart from the first button,

each of the first and second buttons being moveable from a respective first position to a respective second position,

each of the first and second buttons being resiliently biased the respective first positions,

the first button being operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first and second buttons, where the first interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, where the lid is maintained in the closed position when the first locking member and the complementary locking member are engaged, and where the lid is moveable from the closed position to the open position when both the first and second buttons are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, resulting in disengagement of the first locking member and the complementary locking member.

28. A closure system according to claim 27, wherein the second button is operatively connected to a second interlocking member located substantially between the first and second buttons, where the second interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member, preferably a second complementary locking member.

29. A closure system according to claim 27, wherein the securing member is connected to the frame, and wherein the complementary locking member is located on the lid.

30. A container system comprising:

a closure system comprising a hinged lid that is selectively moveable between a closed position and an open position,

the lid effectively blocking access to the interior volume when in the closed position and effectively allowing access to the interior volume when in the open position;

a locking system comprising

a securing member that is non-integral to the body and non-integral to the lid, the securing member comprising a first button and a second button that is spaced apart from the first button,

each of the first and second buttons having a first position,

each of the first and second buttons being moveable to a second position,

each of the first and second buttons being resiliently biased to their respective first positions, and

said first button being operatively connected to a first interlocking member located substantially between the first and second buttons,

where the first interlocking member is selectively engageable with a complementary locking member,

where the lid is maintained in the closed position when the first interlocking member and the complementary interlocking member are engaged, and

where the lid is moveable from the closed position to the open position when both the first and second buttons are moved from the respective first positions to the respective second positions, resulting in disengagement of the first interlocking member and the complementary locking member.