CN1474775A - Construction of the removable cover - Google Patents

Abstract

A membrane lid with a surface with a substantially triangular-shaped perimeter. The perimeter includes first, second and third corner portions, wherein each corner portion is bisected by an imaginary line. The membrane lid further includes a projection with a tab and adapted to initially direct a lifting force to at least one of the corner portions. The projection either extends outwardly from the perimeter such that the projection is non-symmetrically disposed with respect to the imaginary line of any adjacent corner portion, or the projection extends non-continuously from an adjacent corner portion and is substantially symmetrically disposed with respect to the imaginary line of the adjacent corner portion. Containers are also provided with a lip having a substantially triangular-shaped horizontal cross-section. The lip includes three corner portions and three sides, wherein the sides of the lip are structured differently than the corner portions of the lip to increase the relative rigidity of the sides with respect to the corner portions such that the corner portions and the sides are adapted to exhibit a substantially uniform reaction pressure when applying a membrane lid to the lip of the container.

Description

Construction of the removable cover

Cross References to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Applications 60/248,026 and 60/248,340, each filed on November 13, 2000, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

field of invention

The present invention relates to providing a closure for a container, and more particularly to providing a structure for a removable closure.

Background of the invention

Preformed snack pieces are typically fragile and may also be fragile and easily broken during packaging, shipping and/or other handling. Conventional packaging techniques provide bags and/or boxes that allow a large number of snack pieces to break or crush prior to consumption. Best known as the Pringles ^(R) shaped potato chips, a product of Procter & Gamble Company of Cincinnati, Ohio, these individual snack chips are "saddle" shaped and packaged in a manner that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. Pringles ^(R) snack chips are typically packaged in a single nested stack in a cylindrical container for added protection of the snack chips during packaging, shipping and/or other handling. Thus, the Pringles ^(R) snack chip can generally be presented to the consumer intact.

There is a continuing need for a user-friendly and relatively inexpensive container for packaging fragile snack pieces to provide protection during packaging, shipping, and/or other handling. It is further desirable to be able to provide caps for containers to protect a membrane lid and/or to provide closures to a container after at least partial removal of the membrane lid.

It would also be desirable to provide such inexpensive containers for other types of fragile and/or brittle articles in order to reduce breakage of the articles during shipping and/or other handling, to maintain the desirable properties of the articles, and to provide a convenient The package used by the user.

Summary of the invention

Accordingly, the present invention proposes various configurations for providing a removable closure suitable for a container.

In a first embodiment, a membrane cap is provided. The membrane cover includes a surface with a substantially triangular perimeter. The perimeter includes first, second, and third corner portions, each of which is bisected by an imaginary line. The membrane cover also includes a raised portion with a protrusion adapted to initially direct a lifting force towards at least one corner portion. The protrusion either extends outwardly from the periphery such that it is asymmetrically disposed relative to an imaginary line of any adjacent corner portion, or extends discontinuously from an adjacent corner portion such that it is disposed relative to any The imaginary lines of the adjacent corner portions are arranged symmetrically.

In another embodiment, a container having a lip having a substantially triangular horizontal cross-section is provided. The lip includes three corner portions and three sides, wherein the construction of the sides of the lip is different from that of the corner portions of the lip in order to increase the relative rigidity of the sides with respect to the corner portions so that when the membrane cover is applied to the container The edges and corners are adjusted to produce a substantially uniform reaction force when on the lip of the

The film lids, container lips and containers of the present invention are advantageous for packaging articles, for example, by preventing breakage of substantially triangular shaped products. For example, the structure of the present invention can be used to package tortilla chips and similar products to conveniently provide the consumer with the lowest breakage rate before consumption and to extend the shelf life of the product.

The membrane cap of the present invention allows the use of a cap with high reliability and minimal interference therewith. The film cover of the present invention can be easily removed when needed, but at the same time can prevent it from being accidentally removed during packaging, transportation or other handling processes. Furthermore, the container lip of the present invention also allows the formation of a reliable and durable vacuum seal with the membrane cap to help retain the cap, allowing the container to be used even in environments where pressure differentials exist, such as at high altitudes.

Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent with reference to the following detailed description.

Figure overview

Combined with graphics, the following detailed description will be easier to understand, where:

Figure 1 is a top plan view of a membrane cap in one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2A is a top plan view of a membrane cover according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

2B is a partial plan view of the membrane cover of the third embodiment of the present invention;

2C is a partial plan view of a membrane cover of a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

2D is a partial plan view of the membrane cover of the fifth embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2E is a partial plan view of the membrane cover of the sixth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2F is a partial plan view of the membrane cover of the seventh embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2G is a partial plan view of the membrane cover of the eighth embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2H is a partial plan view of the membrane cover of the ninth embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3 is an intersection of a stack of membrane covers, wherein each membrane cover includes at least one beveled portion to aid in alignment;

Figure 4 is a front view of an exemplary container of the present invention;

Figure 5 is a top plan view of the container in Figure 4;

Figure 5A is a partial sectional view taken along line 5A-5A in Figure 5;

Figure 5B is a partial sectional view illustrating the lip structure of the second embodiment;

Figure 5C is a partial sectional view illustrating the lip structure of the third embodiment;

Fig. 6 is an enlarged view at 6 places in Fig. 4;

Fig. 7 is the enlarged view of place 7 in Fig. 4;

Figure 7A is an enlarged view of a lip structure in a second embodiment;

Figure 7B is an enlarged view of the lip structure in the third embodiment;

Figure 8 is a top plan view of an exemplary overcap for use with a container according to the present invention;

Figure 9 is a front view of one side of the cap shown in Figure 8 .

Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments

The present invention is directed to providing a removable closure to allow packaging of one or more components (ie one or more articles), such as substantially triangular components. In one application, one or more snack pieces may be packaged, and in a particular embodiment, one or more substantially triangular-shaped snack pieces may be packaged to provide the consumer with a product that has the lowest breakage rate. The present invention contemplates that many types of snack chips can be packaged using this structure. For example, snack pieces having a substantially triangular, approximately circular, approximately oval, approximately rectangular, approximately square, or other shape such as a chip-like (e.g., tortilla, potato chip, vegetable chip, fruit chip , bagel wafers), crackers, snacks, biscuits, candy and similar items. Snack chip shapes of each of the above shapes can be packaged, for example, using containers having various shapes, such as approximately circular, approximately oval, approximately rectangular, approximately square, substantially triangular, or other shape container. Exemplary containers that may be used in accordance with the principles of the present invention are disclosed by Buisson et al. in U.S. Provisional Application 60/248,340, filed November 13, 2000, entitled "An Improved Plastic Packaging for Snack Chips" ( An Improved Plastic Package for Snack Pieces). In addition, other containers made according to the principles of the present invention and their structures are disclosed by Buisson et al. in U.S. provisional application 60/248,103, which was filed on November 13, 2000, and its patent application number is ___________, entitled "Container Container Bottom and Methods" (Container Bottom and Methods), attorney filing number 8331M filed herewith, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Although the exemplary structure of the present invention has only been described for use in edible snack chips, the structure of the present invention is also suitable for storing, packaging or transporting other items, including but not limited to multiple Fragile products (i.e., multiple breakable products).

Closure-providing structures may include film lids, container lips, and containers that are particularly suitable for packaging articles, such as substantially triangular articles. The membrane lid, container lip, and container of the present invention provide improvements that facilitate packaging, reduce the amount of damage to items during packaging, shipping, and/or other handling, and provide users with an easy-to-use and The optional removable membrane lid also helps maintain the vacuum tightness of the container. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the exemplary film lid, container lip, and container are all substantially triangular in shape and can be used to package substantially triangular shaped articles. In the context of the present invention, "substantially triangular" includes a generally three-sided polygon in which the sides are interconnected at respective corner portions, the sides including acute and obtuse angled portions. In an exemplary membrane cover (eg, shown in FIG. 1 ), the obtuse portion is joined by a straight or substantially straight side. In the present invention, "straight side" includes the distance between the corner portions and does not require any surface or cross-sectional configuration of the side.

One aspect of the invention includes a membrane lid structure that provides a closure for a container. For example, the membrane lid has a substantially triangular shape and fits into the substantially triangular opening of the container.

In an exemplary embodiment, the substantially triangular film has three sides and three corner portions, wherein each corner portion is bisected by an imaginary line. Exemplary membrane covers include one or more protrusions extending outwardly from a substantially triangular perimeter but not intersecting imaginary lines of any adjacent corner portions. Embodiments of the membrane cover also include one or more protrusions disposed asymmetrically with respect to an imaginary line of the corner portions adjacent thereto, and extending discontinuously from an adjacent corner portion substantially symmetrically disposed with respect to the imaginary line of the corner portion of the bulge. For example, the membrane cover may include one or more protrusions interrupted along an imaginary line at a corner portion adjacent thereto. Each exemplary protrusion of the present invention is configured to direct a lifting force in the direction of at least one corner portion, wherever that corner portion is located along the perimeter of the film.

Providing one or more protrusions of the above configuration reduces or prevents interference between the protrusions of the membrane lid and the container lip and/or the inner extension of the cap. After a membrane lid is sealed to a container, a cap is typically used over the membrane lid to protect the membrane lid and/or to selectively cap the container once at least a portion of the membrane lid is removed . Exemplary caps suitable for the principles of the present invention are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Application 60/248,089, filed November 13, 2000, U.S. Patent Application No. ________, entitled "Substantially Triangular Caps" -Shaped Over-Cap), the submitted lawyer record number is 8329M, and the entire disclosure content is incorporated into this article for reference.

Any interference between the projection of the membrane lid and the cap tends to reduce the reliability of the connection between the cap and the membrane-sealed container. For example, when caps are used on containers on a high-speed assembly line, the interference between the membrane cap protrusion and the cap can create a significant hindrance. Furthermore, any interference between the protrusion and the cap after use of the cap can result in the cap being unintentionally removed from the container. For example, the interference described above can cause problems when there is a change in atmospheric pressure or in a change in the pressure of the outside air causing a change in the pressure in the cavity of the container. If the external air pressure drops (as may occur, for example, at high altitudes), the container expands in response to the increased internal chamber pressure, causing the cap to come off.

Referring now in detail to the drawings, wherein like numerals refer to like elements throughout the views, FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary version of a membrane cover 10 including a generally horizontal surface 12 having a generally triangular perimeter 14 . The perimeter of the membrane includes three sides 16, at least one of which (eg "16a") can be indicated by a dashed line. The dashed lines throughout the figures represent the substantially triangular shape of the perimeter adjacent to the one or more protrusions and are not intended to represent perforations or other types of alterations in the generally horizontal surface 12 . In one embodiment, the membrane cover 10 has a perimeter of an approximately equilateral triangle, wherein the sides 16 of the triangle are equal or substantially equal in length.

Membrane cover 10 also includes corner portions 20a, 20b and 20c, which are shown as rounded corner portions in the drawings, but are more or less angled as desired, and each corner portion has an imaginary line 18a, 18b and 18c, which bisect their corresponding corner portions 20a, 20b and 20c. Membrane lid 10 is sized and dimensioned to cover the perimeter of a similar substantially triangular container, such as a container opening. In an exemplary embodiment, the membrane lid 10 may be used to attach to a container lip 54 located near one end of the container body 52 (see FIGS. 4 and 5 ). The length of the side 16 of the membrane lid 10 is designed to be able to cover the periphery of the opening and it can be sealed to the container lip if possible. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1 , the side length "L" of the membrane cover may be from about 4 cm to about 14 cm, such as from about 6 cm to about 9 cm. In certain exemplary embodiments, its side length "L" is from about 7.5 centimeters to about 8.5 centimeters. However, the above-mentioned lengths are for exemplary purposes only, and therefore, the side lengths may have different lengths depending on specific applications.

As shown in FIG. 1, the membrane cover 10 may include a protrusion 24 extending outwardly from its periphery 14 and not intersecting the imaginary lines 18a and 18b of the adjacent corner portions 20a and 20b. Although not shown, the membrane cover may have a plurality of protrusions, for example, may include any combination of exemplary protrusions described in this application or related documents. Each membrane cover projection described herein is sized and initially positioned to direct a lifting force toward at least one of the corner portions when the perimeter of the membrane cover is adhered to the surface.

As shown in FIG. 1, for example, protrusions 24 generally extend outwardly from at least one side 16a of perimeter 14 such that protrusions 24 are asymmetrically disposed relative to imaginary lines 18a and 18b of adjacent corner portions 20a and 20b. The protrusion may also comprise two protrusions 26a and 26b which may be arranged symmetrically along the periphery with respect to the imaginary line 18c of the corner portion 20c of the end. Having dual tabs allows for easy handling by a left-handed or right-handed person and assists in removing the remainder of the ruptured membrane cap that may remain after first removing the cap. Additionally, the one or more projections may include one or more protrusions extending from two or more sides of the substantially triangular-shaped membrane cap to provide the consumer with access to the protrusions at various locations on the container. to offer comfort. Also, although not shown, the protrusions described herein may include three or more protrusions extending from the periphery in accordance with the present invention. Each of 26a and 26b can be gripped by a consumer at lift point 28a or 28b to apply a lifting force to protrusion 24 to easily lift membrane cap 10 from a container lip or other surface to which the membrane cap is adhered. remove.

The raised structure of the present invention is designed to prevent the removal of the membrane lid from the surface to which it is attached (eg, the lip of a container) by applying a lifting force on at least one protrusion of the membrane lid by the consumer. Film torn. In one embodiment, a protrusion that substantially covers the lifting area defined by two imaginary lines extending from the points of tangency of two adjacent corner portions Extends to a lift point for gripping the membrane cap and applying lift. The lift point should be at a sufficient distance from the periphery of the membrane cap so that the consumer can grasp the protrusion enough to remove the membrane cap from the container. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the lift point is located at least about 4 millimeters from the perimeter of the membrane cover. In other embodiments, the lift point is located at least about 8 millimeters from the perimeter of the membrane cover. Other lifting point distances may also be used in accordance with the principles of the present invention without departing from the scope of the claims.

As shown in FIG. 1, for example, the first raised region 34a is at least partially or entirely formed by the perimeter 14, a first outer imaginary line 30a extending from the first raised point 28a to a circumscribed point of the first corner portion 20a and drawn from the first corner portion 20a. A lift point 28a is defined by a first interior imaginary line 32a extending to an exterior point of tangency of the second corner portion 20b. The second raised region 34b is at least partly or entirely formed by the perimeter 14, a second outer imaginary line 30b extending from the second raised point 28b to a point circumscribed to the second corner portion 20b and extending from the second raised point 28b to the second A second interior imaginary line 32b of a circumscribed point of the corner portion 20b is defined. Therefore, according to FIG. 1, the protrusion 26a of the protrusion 24 will at least substantially or completely cover the lifting area 34a defined by the periphery 14, the straight lines 30a and 32a, while the protrusion 26b of the protrusion 24 will at least or completely cover the lifting area 34a defined by the periphery 14, the straight lines 30a and 32a. Lines 30b and 32b define lift area 34b. Accordingly, projection 24 should be sized to substantially or completely cover each of the lift areas 34a and 34b, distributing the lift force within the lift area while initially directing the lift force toward at least one adjacent corner portion 20a or 20b, thereby passing Stress concentrations are minimized to reduce the possibility of film rupture.

Protrusion 24 can also be constructed in such a way that lifting regions 34a and 34b define overlapping region 36 to provide an additional support to further prevent rupture of the membrane, for example, when the full lifting force is applied on a single protrusion ( For example, protrusions 26a or 26b). This arrangement removes the sharp lifting force on the membrane at a point near the middle of the respective edge, thereby reducing the possibility of undesired membrane rupture.

FIG. 2A shows an alternative membrane cover 110 having a surface 112 and a generally triangular perimeter 114 . Perimeter 114 includes sides 116, at least one of which (eg, "116a") may be represented by a dashed line. Membrane cover 110 also includes corner portions 120a, 120b, and 120c that are bisected by imaginary lines 118a, 118b, and 118c, respectively. The exemplary membrane cover 110 includes a protrusion 124 with a single protrusion 126 . Protrusions 124 are disposed asymmetrically with respect to imaginary lines 118a and 118b of corner portions 120a and 120b. As noted above, embodiments of the present invention include a single or multiple protrusions extending from a side (e.g., from side "116a") along the perimeter relative to an imaginary line of terminal corner portion 120c. 118c may be symmetrically arranged. Optional dual protrusions can be used to distribute lifting force and facilitate grasping by a left-handed or right-handed person.

The protrusions of each of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention described in the application may be positioned near one or the other of the corner portions so that the protrusions are not symmetrically disposed with respect to any imaginary line.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the protrusion 124 includes a single protrusion 126 sized to be grasped by the consumer and capable of exerting a lifting force on the protrusion 124 at a lift point 128 to lift the membrane cap from the container lip or other Attached surfaces are removed. The size and configuration of the film cap 110 prevents rupture of the film when the consumer pulls on the tab 126 to remove the film cap from the container or other adhered surface. The structure of the protrusion 124 can be designed so that it can substantially or completely cover the lifting area 134 to reduce the occurrence of film rupture by changing the direction of the lifting force. The raised region 134 should be at least partially or entirely defined by the perimeter 114, a first imaginary line 130 extending from the raised point 128 to a circumscribed point of the first corner portion 120a, and a first imaginary line 130 extending from the raised point 128 to the second corner portion 120b. A second imaginary line 132 of circumscribed points is defined. Accordingly, the protrusion 124 should be sized to at least substantially or completely cover the lift area 134 so that it can distribute the lift force within the lift area when the protrusion initially directs the lift force toward at least one of the respective corner portions 120a and 120b. .

Also as shown in FIG. 2A , the outer periphery 127 of the protrusion 126 can be bent inwardly so that the protrusion 126 can use less material. Reducing the amount of material used reduces material costs while also preventing the protrusions from obscuring advertising or other informational displays on the exterior surface of the container to which the membrane lid is adhered. However, outer perimeter 127 is sized to allow protrusion 126 to at least substantially or completely cover at least some or all of lift area 134 defined by perimeter 114 , line 130 , and line 132 .

Figure 2B includes a membrane cover 210 similar to the membrane cover 110 described above. In fact, membrane cover 210 and membrane cover 110 may be identical unless otherwise noted. However, unlike the membrane cover 110, the membrane cover 210 includes a protrusion 224 having an outer perimeter 227 that has no reduced portion and is not bent inwardly. In fact, as shown in Fig. 2B, the outer perimeter 227 has a straight portion which, although not shown, may even be curved outwards. The outer perimeter is configured such that the protrusions also have no reduced portions (e.g., straight portions as shown), but include portions that can increase (e.g., outwardly curved portions), which can increase the protrusions 224 Structural strength to reduce stress concentration and rupture of the corresponding film.

Figures 2C to 2H illustrate several alternative embodiments of a protrusion extending discontinuously from an adjacent corner portion, which is symmetrically disposed with respect to an imaginary line bisecting the adjacent corner portion . When a discontinuous extension feature cannot be provided, a substantially symmetrical protrusion includes protrusions that are symmetrical about an imaginary line. Discontinuous extension of the protrusion as seen from the exterior plane of the protrusion or a section through the protrusion is due to alternative protrusion material configuration, structure, composition, discontinuity, or the like. For example, a raised area of weakness may result in a discontinuous extension. The area of weakness may include a portion of the raised portion or the entire raised portion, the area of weakness defining apertures, perforations, slits, scores, creases, cutouts, channels, or other irregularities. For example, the area of weakness may comprise the entire raised portion or a portion that is less than the entire raised portion. The area of weakness of the present invention is designed to reduce or prevent interference between the inner extension of the cap and the lip of the container after the cap is in use, and at the same time, when the cap is in use, the raised portion bends to conform to the exterior of the container It also reduces or prevents the bumps from being crimped when surfaced.

Figure 2C illustrates an exemplary membrane cover 310 wherein the perimeter includes sides 316, at least one of which (eg, "316a") can be represented by a dashed line. At least one corner portion 320 is bisected by an imaginary line 318 , wherein protrusions 324 extending outward from adjacent corner portions 320 of the perimeter 314 are disposed substantially symmetrically relative to the imaginary line 318 bisecting adjacent corner portions 320 . The protrusion 324 includes a single protrusion 326 which provides a lifting point 328 for the consumer. Protrusion 324 extends discontinuously from adjacent corner portion 320 and includes a region of weakness comprised of raised portions that also define one or more apertures 338 having closed perimeters 340 . Aperture 338 can be modified to prevent interference between the cap and container opening. For example, providing the aperture 338 may facilitate the interconnection of the inner extension 78 of the cap 70 and the lip 54 of the container 50 by limiting or preventing interference between the protrusion and the cap and lip interface. In fact, the aperture 338 may be located on the protrusion such that the inner extension 78 engages the lip 54 at least through the aperture 338 when the cap 70 is installed on the container 50 .

The symmetrical location of the aperture 338 along the imaginary line 318 is such that the aperture 338 interrupts the protrusion 324 along the imaginary line 318 . In another embodiment, the location of aperture 338 may be offset from imaginary line 318 and/or multiple apertures may be provided such that protrusion 324 is not interrupted on imaginary line 318 . For example, although not shown in the drawings, the exemplary embodiment includes a plurality of apertures that are symmetrically disposed away from the imaginary line 318 so that they do not intersect the imaginary line 318 so that the projections 324 are not disturbed along the imaginary line 318. interruption.

As shown in FIG. 2C , aperture 338 may be a half-moon shape or a "D" shape to further prevent interference between protrusion 324 and container 50 . Enhanced tear resistance of the protrusion 324 is required to prevent damage or tearing at the corner portion 342 where the angle of the aperture 338 is relatively small.

FIG. 2D depicts another embodiment of a membrane cover 410 similar to the membrane cover 310 described above, which may be identical unless otherwise stated. For example, membrane cover 410 also includes a generally triangular perimeter 414 having sides 416, at least one of which (eg, "416a") may be represented by a dashed line. At least one corner portion 420 is bisected by an imaginary line 418 . Extending outwardly from the perimeter 414 of the adjacent corner portion 420 is a protrusion 424 that is disposed substantially symmetrically about an imaginary line 418 that bisects the adjacent corner portion 420 . The protrusion 424 includes at least one protrusion 426 extending discontinuously from an adjacent corner portion 420, and includes a region of weakness comprising a portion of the protrusion defining one or more protrusions having a closed perimeter 440. Pores 438 . However, unlike the membrane cover 310 shown in FIG. 2C, the aperture 438 of the membrane cover 410 includes a perimeter 440 with a rounded portion 442 that reduces the pressure on the membrane when a lifting force is applied at the lifting point 428. stress concentration to reduce or prevent closure cracking.

As with the apertures in the projections of any of the embodiments of the present invention, the apertures 438 in Figure 2D may be approximately annular in shape. If necessary, the hole on any protrusion can also be nearly elliptical or other shapes to simplify the manufacturing process or improve the functional characteristics of the hole to prevent mutual interference between the cap and the container.

Like aperture 338 , aperture 438 is positioned symmetrically along imaginary line 418 such that aperture 438 interrupts protrusion 424 along imaginary line 418 . In alternate embodiments thereof, aperture 438 may be offset from imaginary line 418 or multiple apertures configured such that the protrusion is not interrupted on imaginary line 418 . For example, although not shown in the drawings, the exemplary embodiment includes a plurality of apertures that are offset from the imaginary line 418 and positioned symmetrically with respect to each other, they do not intersect the imaginary line 418 so that the protrusions are not interrupted on the imaginary line 418 .

Figure 2E depicts another embodiment of a membrane cover 510, still in accordance with the present invention. If not otherwise stated, the membrane cover 510 may be the same as the embodiments described in Figures 2C, 2D and in this application, including a protrusion with an aperture. For example, membrane cover 510 includes a generally triangular perimeter 514 having sides 516, at least one of which (eg, "516a") can be represented by a dashed line. At least one corner portion 520 is bisected by an imaginary line 518 . A protrusion 524 extends outwardly from the perimeter 514 of an adjacent corner portion 520 and is disposed substantially symmetrically with respect to an imaginary line 518 that bisects the corner portion 520 . The protrusion 524 includes at least one protrusion 526 intended to provide at least one lifting point 528a, 528b. Protrusion 524 extends discontinuously from adjacent corner portion 520 and includes a region of weakness comprising raised portions defining one or more apertures 538 to facilitate interconnection between the cap and the container.

As with apertures 338 and 438 described above, the symmetrical positioning of aperture 538 along imaginary line 518 is such that aperture 538 interrupts protrusion 524 along imaginary line 518 . In alternative embodiments, the aperture 538 may be offset from the imaginary line 518 or provide multiple holes to ensure that the protrusions are not interrupted along the imaginary line. For example, although not shown in the drawings, the exemplary embodiment includes a plurality of holes positioned symmetrically relative to each other offset from the imaginary line 518 , which do not intersect the imaginary line 518 so that the protrusion 524 is not interrupted on the imaginary line 518 .

As shown in FIG. 2E , aperture 538 , like each aperture described herein, includes an opening 541 providing aperture 538 with open perimeter 540 . The open perimeter allows the membrane cover to be combined with a separate perimeter that includes an outermost perimeter rather than a perimeter of an inner hole that is distinct from the outermost perimeter. Providing a separate outermost perimeter reduces manufacturing steps and/or reduces the cost of producing the membrane cap. The opening 541 can be a narrow or wide slit or the like. In one embodiment, the opening 541 extends along an imaginary line that bisects the corner portion 520 to ensure a symmetrical distribution of lifting force when simultaneously lifting the protrusion at the lifting points 528a and 528b.

Figure 2F depicts another embodiment of a membrane cover 610 of the present invention. If not stated otherwise, the membrane cap 610 may be the same as that described in Figures 2C to 2E and other embodiments of the invention. For example, membrane cover 610 includes a generally triangular perimeter 614 having sides 616, at least one of which (eg, "616a") can be represented by a dashed line. At least one corner portion 620 is bisected by an imaginary line 618 . Extending outwardly from the perimeter 614 of an adjacent corner portion 620 is a protrusion 624 that is substantially symmetrically disposed about an imaginary line 618 that bisects the adjacent corner portion 620 . Meanwhile, the protrusion 624 extends discontinuously from the adjacent corner portion 620 . A weakened area of the protrusion 624 includes a scratched portion, wherein the protrusion includes one or more slits 638 . One or more slits may be formed by cuts through the entire thickness of the protrusion. In other embodiments, the slit may be formed as a cut through only a portion of the thickness of the protrusion.

The symmetrical placement of the slot 638 along the imaginary line 618 is such that the protrusion 624 is interrupted on the imaginary line 618 . In alternative embodiments, the slit 638 may be offset from the imaginary line 618 or provide multiple slits so that the protrusion 624 is not interrupted on the imaginary line 618 . For example, although not shown in the figures, the exemplary embodiment includes a plurality of slits positioned symmetrically offset from the imaginary line 618 , which do not intersect the imaginary line 618 so that the protrusion 624 is not interrupted on the imaginary line 618 .

The one or more slots 638 can be formed in various shapes, such as wavy, sinusoidal, arcuate, and other shapes. Additionally, multiple slits may be provided to further weaken the protrusions. As shown in Figure 2F, one slit can be intersected by multiple intersecting slits. The larger arcuate slit should match the contact area between the inner extension of the cap and the lip to reduce or prevent interference between them. A single slit, rather than multiple slits, can be constructed to weaken the protrusion to reduce interference, but at the same time not weaken it to the point where it tends to tear or break when given a lifting force. In alternative embodiments, multiple slits may be provided to further minimize interference of the weakened area. In one embodiment, the slits may be formed as a cross (ie, two intersecting slits).

The slit 638 can be very narrow (as shown in FIG. 2F ) or slightly wider to enhance its functionality while reducing manufacturing costs. A very thin cut slit is easier to make than a slightly wider slit or slot and prevents the accumulation of bits and pieces of material. However, a slightly wider slot or groove can further reduce mutual interference. A wide slit can be in the form of a groove (ie, where the slit does not run through the entire thickness of the membrane cover) or an open slot (ie, where the slit runs through the entire thickness of the membrane cover).

Figure 2G illustrates another embodiment of a membrane cover 710 of the present invention. If not otherwise stated, the membrane cover 710 may be the same as that described in FIGS. 2C to 2F and other embodiments of the invention. For example, membrane cover 710 includes a triangular perimeter 714 having sides 716, at least one of which (eg, "716a") can be represented by a dashed line. At least one corner portion 720 is bisected by an imaginary line 718 . A protrusion 724 extends outwardly from the perimeter 714 of an adjacent corner portion 720 and is disposed substantially symmetrically about an imaginary line 718 that bisects the adjacent corner portion 720 . The protrusion 724 extends discontinuously from the corner portion 720 . A weakened area on protrusion 724 includes a scratched portion, wherein the protrusion includes perforations or slits 738 . The one or more perforations or slits may be fine perforations or cuts that extend through some or all of the thickness of the protrusion.

The perforations or slits 738 may be positioned symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to the imaginary line 718 . In one embodiment, one or more slits intersect the imaginary line, thereby causing the protrusion 724 to be interrupted on the imaginary line 718 . In alternative embodiments, each perforation or cutout 738 may be offset from the imaginary line 718 so that the protrusion 724 is not interrupted on the imaginary line 718 . For example, although not shown in the figures, the exemplary embodiment includes a plurality of perforations or slits 738 that are disposed substantially symmetrically with respect to, but do not intersect, the imaginary line 718 so that the protrusion 724 is on the imaginary line 718. It was not interrupted.

Perforations or cutouts 738 may be positioned along protrusions 724 in a variety of forms. In one embodiment, the perforations or cutouts 738 are positioned in an arcuate fashion to substantially match the interior extension 78 from the cap 70 while also minimizing interference between the cap and the container lip.

Figure 2H illustrates another embodiment of a membrane cover 810 of the present invention. If not otherwise stated, the membrane cover 810 can be the same as that described in Figures 2C to 2G and other embodiments of the invention. For example, membrane cover 810 includes a generally triangular perimeter 814 having sides 816, at least one of which (eg, "816a") can be represented by a dashed line. At least one corner portion 820 is bisected by an imaginary line 818 . A protrusion 824 extends outwardly from the perimeter 814 of an adjacent corner portion 820 and is disposed substantially symmetrically about an imaginary line 818 bisecting the adjacent corner portion 820 . The protrusion 824 extends discontinuously from this adjacent corner portion 820 . A weakened area on protrusion 824 includes a scratched portion, wherein the protrusion includes one or more corrugations 838 .

The corrugations 838 may be arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to the imaginary line 818 . In one embodiment, one or more corrugations intersect the imaginary line 818 resulting in a discontinuity of the protrusion 824 on the imaginary line 818 . In alternative embodiments thereof, each crease 838 may be offset from the imaginary line 818 such that the protrusion 824 is not interrupted on the imaginary line 818 . For example, although not shown in the Figures, the exemplary embodiment includes a plurality of corrugations that deviate from the imaginary line 818 and do not intersect the imaginary line 818 so that the protrusions 824 are not interrupted on the imaginary line 818 .

Corrugation 838 may be positioned along protrusion 824 in a variety of ways. In one embodiment, the corrugations 838 are arranged in an arcuate fashion to substantially match the interior extension 78 of the cap 70, thereby reducing interference between the cap and the lip of the container.

The above-described embodiments are exemplary in nature and may include other embodiments consistent with the principles of the invention. For example, any combination of the above features or their equivalents may be combined with each other in a non-continuous extension. In addition, while the discontinuous portion of the exemplary embodiment described above is associated with a protrusion disposed symmetrically with respect to an imaginary line of an adjacent corner portion, the protrusion may also extend discontinuously from the periphery in other embodiments to further limit the Or to prevent the projection from interfering with the connecting portion of the cap and the lip. For example, the protrusion may extend discontinuously from the periphery, while being disposed asymmetrically with respect to the imaginary line of any adjacent corner portion. Additionally, exemplary membrane covers of the present invention may include a plurality of protrusions as described herein or their equivalents (eg, one or more protrusions as shown in FIGS. 1 , 2A-2E and 3 ).

In any of the above-mentioned embodiments comprising a protrusion with a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions may be joined to a film portion having an outer periphery with a curved periphery or a periphery without sharp corners, which would otherwise have to be Potential stress concentration points for film rupture.

As noted above, a protrusion with protrusions can assist a left-handed or right-handed person in removing the membrane cap from the container. If the membrane lid breaks during removal from the container, the additional protrusion can also assist in the removal of residual membranes. For example, the first tab can be grasped to move the closure. After applying a lifting force, the film may be accidentally torn into two parts, only one of which is removed by the consumer. The second protrusion can then be used to remove the remainder of the closure.

In addition, it is desirable that the above membrane cover also minimizes the amount of material used to reduce material cost and minimizes the size of the raised overhang which would otherwise be unsightly or would cover the display surface portion of the container. The amount of overhang or excess film material around the remainder of the closure is typically proportional to the removal function of the membrane closure and they pass through a sealing point on the container lip. The margin of overhang can vary from 0 mm where the seal is just over the very edge of the membrane cap, and in other embodiments it can extend up to 3 mm from the seal between the container and the membrane cap. In another embodiment, the overhang of the membrane cover through the sealing strip is from about 0 mm to about 1 mm, or from about 0 mm to about 0.5 mm in other exemplary embodiments. In yet another embodiment, the overhang may be pre-wrapped under the lip to which the membrane cover is applied.

The membrane cover can be made of various materials. Membrane covers can consist of single or multiple layers of material. Typical multilayer materials consist of at least one layer of oxidation and moisture resistant material, such as a foil, and a sealing material, such as a thermoplastic polymer, that seals against the container lip. The layer of sealing material may be a coating or a continuous or discontinuous layer (eg, coating) to seal the appropriate surface. For example, the sealing material may be used as a discontinuous layer on a film or container lip prior to sealing to reduce the amount of sealing material used, thereby avoiding excessive waste of unused material. In other applications, it may also be desirable to simplify the composition of the membrane cover as a continuous layer instead of a continuous piece of material.

In one embodiment, the membrane cover is constructed of a multi-layer laminate consisting of an acrylic primer, a foil layer about 0.0015 inches (0.0381 mm) thick, and a layer of Composed of approximately 0.00125 inches (0.03175 mm) of ethylene vinyl acetate. An adhesive layer can be placed between the foil layer and the ethylene vinyl acetate layer if desired. The membrane structures covered here may also be used with other membrane materials without departing from the principles of the invention.

Figure 3 shows a stack of membrane caps 1000, wherein each membrane cap 1010 includes at least one beveled portion 1011 to assist in stacking and alignment of the membrane caps prior to use. For example, there may be a horizontal distance "b1" of 6.4 millimeters with a bevel end offset "b2" of about 1.5 millimeters. Accordingly, each of the embodiments described herein includes a membrane cover with at least one beveled portion to facilitate stacking and alignment of multiple membrane covers. In addition, this beveled portion may be on a projection or in other areas of the membrane cover, and in additional embodiments it may extend to the entire periphery of the membrane cover.

The membrane lid of the present invention can be applied to the container and to the opening adjacent to the container using a variety of different adhesive techniques. In an exemplary embodiment, the membrane lid is adhered to the container using heat sealing. In one embodiment, the membrane lid can be adhered to the container using a sealing element above 300 degrees Fahrenheit (149 degrees Celsius), for example, maintaining temperatures from about 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius) to about 450 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius 232 degrees) for a period of time, utilizing sufficient pressure to seal it against the lip of the container. In one embodiment, the sealing member acts on the membrane cap for 0.5 second to 1 second and applies a pressure of about 80 to about 100 psig thereto. While manufacturing a removable closure, the corresponding sealing method and structure are used to produce a hermetically sealed container, wherein the membrane closure can be lifted by the consumer with a small enough lifting force to be accepted. Remove from container.

Figure 4 shows a container which may be used with a membrane lid made according to the invention. A suitable container is disclosed in US Provisional Application 60/248,340 to Buisson et al., filed November 13, 2000, entitled "An Improved Plastic Packaging for Snack Chips," Attorney Docket No. 8332P. As in U.S. Provisional Application 60/248,103 of Buisson et al., filed November 13, 2000, and U.S. Application of Buisson et al., entitled "Container Bottom and Method," Attorney Docket No. 8331M, filed at the same time_ _________, the container may optionally include a container and a container bottom.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the container 50 includes a triangular shaped container body 52 and an outwardly extending lip 54 adjacent the upper end of the body 52 . FIG. 5 is a top plan view of container 50 illustrating that both lip 54 and container body 52 have a triangular horizontal cross-section.

It would be desirable to be able to construct a container with an opening that fits just above a membrane cap as described above, and then make a removable closure that the consumer can easily remove at will while still being able to seal the container well. In order to obtain a better sealing effect, generally higher pressure, temperature and/or adhesion between the membrane cap and the container opening are required to provide a sufficient sealing force to achieve a suitable sealing condition. However, increased sealing force results in greater force being required by the consumer to remove the membrane cap. In addition, improper sealing force can also cause the film to tear when the consumer applies pressure trying to break the seal or remove the film lid from the container. Therefore, it is desirable to produce a sealing material that can achieve a sealing condition and a membrane cover that is easy for the user to grasp and use, and can be easily removed when required.

As mentioned above, in the sealing process, the sealing force is usually determined by the action of pressure, temperature and adhesive. The inherent nature of the lip shape of a non-circular vessel may result in uneven vertical stiffness. Uneven stiffness generally produces different reaction forces at different locations around the lip. In order to ensure adequate sealing at all lip locations, the application force of the diaphragm cover must be increased to produce a minimum reaction force at all lip locations. Thus, the area of least rigidity requires the least reaction force to achieve the necessary seal, whereas the point of higher reaction force on the lip creates an excessive sealing force that is difficult for the consumer to overcome.

In order to be able to achieve a tightness within the required force range, it is advantageous to produce a container opening with a constant force so as to avoid sealing areas with excessive sealing force. Therefore, it is desirable to have a uniform reaction force at every point along the lip when the membrane cap is pressed onto the container during the sealing process. The uniform reaction force allows sufficient sealing force to meet minimum sealing requirements without unnecessarily strong sealing areas that are difficult to overcome.

Circular container structures with a circular horizontal section have a uniform lip that produces a uniform reaction force on the container lip when a membrane cap is sealed to the container. Thus, applying a sealing force to apply a membrane lid to a conventional round container produces a constant reaction force at all points of contact between the container lip and the membrane lid. However, a container lip having a substantially triangular cross-section does not produce a constant and uniform reaction force when the membrane cover is applied to the container lip. Furthermore, applying a sealing force to the membrane lid to seal it against the substantially triangular shaped container lip would create uneven reaction forces at different points on the container lip and also between the container lip and the membrane lid. Different sealing strength. Typically, a triangular container is inherently more rigid vertically at the corners than at the sides between the corners, so that when sealing forces are applied to the membrane lid, the sides of the container are stronger than at the corners. elastic. Thus, due to the inherent nature of the substantially triangular lip, a slightly higher sealing force applied to the corners produces a greater reaction force than a reaction force applied to the sides between the corners. In order to ensure sufficient sealing strength at the sides, a greater force must be exerted on the membrane cover, which also causes redundant reaction forces and corresponding redundant sealing forces at the corners. The increased sealing force of the corners makes it difficult for consumers to overcome when trying to remove the membrane cap, and may cause the membrane cap to rupture.

In accordance with the principles of the present invention, the lip of a substantially triangular container has a side configuration different from that of the corners, the side configuration of the lip being such that it increases its relative rigidity relative to the corners. In fact, their different configuration reduces or prevents the difference in vertical rigidity between the same sides of the corners, thus enabling a sealing force to produce a constant reaction force. Thus, in accordance with the principles of the present invention, a membrane closure can be sealed to the substantially triangular lip with a substantially constant sealing force on the container opening.

For example, Figures 5, 5A, 6, and 7 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a container 50 that includes a lip 54 that adjoins the opening of a container body 52, wherein for increased edge 58 relative to corner portion 56 The relative rigidity of the lip 54 is different from the configuration of the side 58 of the lip 54 and the configuration of the corner portion 56 thereof. In fact, the difference in configuration between side 58 and corner portion 56 is such that when a membrane cap is applied to lip 54 of container 50, a substantially uniform reaction force is produced on the lip.

6 is an enlarged side view at 6 of the exemplary corner portion 56 of the lip 54 in FIG. 4 , and FIG. 7 is an enlarged side view at 7 of the side 58 of the lip 54 in FIG. 4 . Additionally, FIG. 5A shows a cross-sectional view of the corner portion 56 and sides 58 of the lip 54 . The lip 54 has a top surface 60 , an outer wall surface 62 , 63 and a bottom surface 64 . In addition, the outer wall 62 of the corner portion 56 has a nearly "U" shaped, outwardly convex configuration with a rounded apex 68 . This configuration provides substantial structural integrity for the corner portion 56 to accept the membrane cover. In contrast, the side 58 of the lip 54 having a flat outer wall 63 is of a different configuration as compared to the "U" shaped outer wall 62 of the lip corner portion 56 . In this configuration, maintaining a uniform vertical height H1 between the top surface 60 of the lip 54 and its bottom surface 64 also results in the desired corner and side rigidity. As shown in FIG. 7 , outer wall 63 is substantially flat compared to the "U" shaped profile of outer wall 62 of corner portion 56 , although substantially flat outer wall 62 may have a lesser curvature. Trimming the outer wall 63 to be substantially flat rather than having a "U" profile increases the relative rigidity of the side 58 relative to the corner portion 56 . Thus, the combination of the "U" shaped outer wall 62 of the corner portion 56 and the flat outer wall 63 of the side 58 forms a substantially triangular container lip 54, a substantially triangular container lip of the same construction as the corner and side portions. Compared to a rim, it produces a substantially uniform reaction force when a membrane cap is placed on top of it.

Since the desired lip configuration can be obtained over a wide range of protruding lengths, Figure 6 shows that the lip of one embodiment of the container body protrudes beyond the length L1 of the container body and can be from about 0.03 to about 0.10 inches (0.762 to 2.54 mm) . In a particular embodiment, L1 is about 0.08 inches (2.032 mm). According to FIG. 7, the length L2 protruding from the lip of the container body may be about 0.01 inches to about 0.10 inches (0.254 to 2.54 millimeters). In a particular embodiment, L2 is about 0.06 inches (1.542 mm).

The container may have a variety of lip configurations. The lip should provide a substantially uniform reaction force when the membrane cap is applied to the container opening. Figures 5B and 7A illustrate an alternate embodiment of a container lip 154 consistent with an additional exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 5B, the construction of the corner portion 156 is similar to, or may be the same as, that of the corner portion 56 of FIGS. 5A and 6 . The container lip 154 includes a top surface 160 , a bottom surface 164 and an outer wall surface 162 having an outward, approximately "U" shaped convex configuration with a rounded apex 168 . 5B and 7A, the container lip 154 also includes a side 158 and a corner portion 156, which are of different configurations in order to increase the relative rigidity of the side 158 relative to the corner portion 156. Exemplary side 158 has an outwardly convex outer wall 163 in the shape of a "W", wherein an apex region 167 of the flat face 163 of the "W" extends from the container body and is located on the opposite side of a concave central portion 169 superior. The "W" shaped side 158 has a horizontal thickness T1 at the apex region 167 which is greater than either the horizontal thickness T3 of the recessed central portion 169 or the horizontal thickness T2 of the corner portions 156 . Such a large horizontal lip thickness of the apex region 167 can be obtained by blow molding the sides of the "W" shape. As shown in Figures 5B and 7A, a container lip 154 having a "W" shaped side 158, wherein the increased horizontal thickness _T1 of the side 158 at the apex region 167 enhances the relative rigidity of the side 158 relative to the corner portions, thus, and A corner portion has a substantially uniform reaction force when a membrane cap is applied to it compared to the lip of a triangular container having the same side configuration. Also, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 7 , the structural characteristics of the lip 154 can be achieved by having the corner and side walls have the same vertical height between the top surface 160 and the bottom surface 164 .

Figures 5C and 7B show an additional embodiment of a container lip 254 which includes a corner portion 256 having an outer wall 262 having a near "U" configuration with a rounded apex 268, It also includes side 258 also having an outer wall 263 with a similar or identical rounded apex 267 as outer wall 262 . Figure 5C further illustrates that the horizontal lip thickness _T1 of the edge 258 is greater than the horizontal thickness _T2 of the corner portion 256, which is to increase the relative rigidity of the edge 258 relative to the corner portion 256, so that when a membrane cover is added to the container When the lip is on, it may have a substantially uniform reaction force compared to the lip of a substantially triangular container having the same corner and side configuration. Additionally, as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 7 and 7A , the structural characteristics of the lip 254 can be achieved by having the corner and side walls have the same vertical height between the top surface 260 and the bottom surface 264 .

The above-described embodiments are exemplary. In addition, other structural differences between the side and corner portions of the present invention may exist as long as a substantially uniform reaction force is produced on the side when a membrane cap is used on the lip of the container. Also, "substantially uniform" includes the reaction forces on the corners and sides relative to the different reaction forces on the corners and sides when using a membrane cover on a uniform lip. uniform. Thus, a "substantially uniform pressure" may include varying pressures, but more uniform relative to the reaction forces on the corners and sides of substantially the same lip configuration.

In addition, the required rigidity of the side and corner portions can be obtained by combining the above-mentioned embodiments. For example, the horizontal thickness of the lip (as shown in Figure 5C) can be varied as can the profile of the outer wall (as shown in Figures 5A and 5B).

In an exemplary embodiment of the lip structure, the top surface of the lip may extend horizontally from the top end of the outer wall or at an upward angle relative to the horizontal. Thus, angle "c" (as in Figures 6, 7, 7A and 7B) may be from about 0 degrees to about 20 degrees, such as from about 5 degrees to about 18 degrees, and in one embodiment from about 8 degrees to about 12 degrees . By arranging the top surface horizontally or at an angle greater than 0 degrees, the container lip exhibits a spring-like movement when using a membrane closure, and can also provide a resistance to the membrane sealing force allowing the membrane closure to achieve a more Good sealing effect. The upward angle of the top surface also allows for a substantially uniform reaction force along the lip when the film is applied and mitigates the effects of imperfections caused by cleaning of weld trim, parting lines, and similar operations . Although the top surface is shown upwardly and inwardly, it could also extend upwardly or outwardly.

In one embodiment, a substantially uniformly angled top surface can be obtained by using a model that allows the top surface angle "c" at the edge of the lip to be greater than the top surface angle "c" at the corner portion of the lip. For example, a model may be constructed such that the top angle "c" of the side is 15 degrees relative to the horizontal, and the top angle "c" of the corner portion is 20 degrees relative to the horizontal.

As the membrane cap and lip structures described above are useful individually, they may be used in combination. For example, any of the membrane caps described herein can be used in combination with any configuration of the lip such that the cap can be removed by the consumer at will and a substantially uniform reaction force can be generated on the cap along the perimeter of the lip to achieve And maintain a good sealing effect. The sealing layer produced by the above-mentioned membrane cap can effectively prevent oxidation and moisture.

The container 50 of the present invention can be constructed using different methods. For example, container 50 may be formed from a thermoplastic material and may be blow molded, although other production methods may be used. Suitable thermoplastic materials include, but are not limited to, polyolefins such as polyethylene and polypropylene, vinyl polymers such as ethyl vinyl alcohol, and the like. These materials can be single layer and some can be combined together. For example, a multilayer material may include a polyolefin layer and an ethyl vinyl alcohol layer. In a particular embodiment, the container 50 is blow molded from a multilayer material comprising an ethyl vinyl alcohol interlayer sandwiched between two layers of high density polyethylene (HDPE).

In an embodiment of a special blow molding method, the multilayer plastic structure of the container is as follows: a neat polyolefin layer, a composite film tie layer, an ethyl vinyl alcohol layer, another composite film tie layer and another Pure polyolefin layer. Typically, container 50 will also have one or more layers of run-in material between the adhesive layer of the composite film and the neat polyolefin layer. The thickness of the ethyl vinyl alcohol layer is generally not less than 0.00005 inches (0.00127 mm) and not more than 0.006 inches (0.1524 mm), for example, not less than 0.00005 inches (0.00127 mm) and not more than 0.003 inches (0.0762 mm), In other instances it is no less than 0.0001 inches (0.00254 mm) and no more than 0.0012 inches (0.03048 mm).

In an even more specific example, the multilayer plastic structure includes a six-layer structure comprising the following layers (from outer to inner): about 9.31 grams or about 19.4% by weight of a high-density polyethylene layer; about 18.91 Grams or about 39.4% by weight of the vegetable run-in layer and the high-density polyethylene layer; about 0.62 grams or about 1.3% by weight of the composite tie layer; about 2.02 grams or about 4.2% by weight of ethyl vinyl alcohol layers; about 0.62 grams or about 1.3% by weight of a composite tie layer; and about 16.51 grams or about 34.4% by weight of a vegetal run-in layer and a high density polyethylene layer.

In another example of a six-layer structure, which includes (from outer layer to inner layer): about 10.7 grams or about 19.4% by weight of high-density polyethylene layer; about 21.66 grams or about 39.4% by weight of plant Run-in and high density polyethylene layer; about 0.69 grams or about 1.3% by weight composite tie layer; about 2.33 grams or about 4.2% by weight ethyl vinyl alcohol layer; about 0.69 grams or about 1.3% by weight and about 18.94 grams or about 34.4% by weight of the plant run-in and high density polyethylene layers.

Yet another example of a six-layer structure may include (from outer layer to inner layer): about 15.0% by weight of high density ethylene (HDEP) homopolymer and dye layer; about 63.3% by weight of plant run-in ( 60% by weight) and high density polyethylene homopolymer and dye (40% by weight) layer; about 1.4% by weight composite tie layer; about 3.6% by weight ethyl vinyl alcohol layer; about 1.4% by weight composite tie layer; and about 15.0% by weight vegetable run-in and high density polyethylene homopolymer and dye layer.

Typical container thicknesses are from about 0.005 inches to about 0.055 inches (0.127 to 1.397 millimeters), such as from about 0.010 inches to about 0.045 inches (0.254 to 1.143 millimeters). The body 52 and lip 54 are integrally formed, for example, by a blow molding process. Conveniently, the lip structure described herein is self-supporting on the underside of its top surface. Thus, the lip structure can be constructed by blow molding and can overcome many of the disadvantages of conventional lips that require a mechanical support for the application of the film.

In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the container may further include a cap 70, an exemplary sample is shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 . For example, cap 70 may be included in U.S. Provisional Application 60/248,089 to Buisson et al., filed November 13, 2000, entitled "Triangle Cap," as well as in concurrently filed "Triangle Cap," Attorney's Filing A cap is described in U.S. Application _________ to Buisson et al., Serial No. 8329M, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The exemplary cap 70 of FIGS. 8 and 9 includes a generally triangular top surface 72 and a skirt 74 extending downwardly from a perimeter 76 of the top surface 72 . As can also be seen in FIGS. 8 and 9 , skirt 74 includes substantially rounded corner portions and substantially straight sides extending from around perimeter 76 of top surface 72 . The corner portions of the skirt include inner extensions 78, whereas the sides of the skirt do not include inner extensions. As used herein, "substantially no internal extension" includes the case where the edge of the skirt has only a sufficiently small percentage of internal extension so that when an outward pressure is applied to the bottom surface of the cap, the internal extension of the corner portion is inward Move without being hindered. In one embodiment, the sides of the skirt do not include internal extensions. The skirt includes corner portions with internal extensions and skirt edges without internal extensions, which allows the cap to be securely adhered to the lip 54 of the container 50 described herein and prevents the internal edge of such a container from The pressure differs between the outer edges. Conveniently, this construction also allows the consumer to easily remove the cap from such a container when desired.

The specific embodiments and examples presented above are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the following claims. Other embodiments of the invention, and advantages thereby, will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art and are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (17)

1. membrane cover, it comprises:

A) surface, it comprises a periphery that is generally triangular, this periphery that is generally triangular has first, second, third angle part, it is characterized in that each angle part by an imaginary line to dividing;

B) projection, it comprises a protrusion, this projection initially is used for guiding a hoisting force, make this power towards at least one angle part, it is characterized in that, this projection or stretch out from periphery, the imaginary line right and wrong of adjacent angular part are symmetrically arranged with it with respect to any one like this; Or since a discontinuous extension in adjacent with it angle part, the imaginary line with respect to this adjacent angular part is symmetrically arranged like this.

2. membrane cover as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that above-mentioned projection stretches out from periphery, like this should projection for the imaginary line of any adjacent with it angle part right and wrong symmetrically arranged; Preferably but not necessarily, its feature further is: (i) this projection comprises a hoist point and a lifting region, this lifting region is limited by first and second imaginary lines, first imaginary line is the point of contact outside hoist point extends to of first angle part, second imaginary line is the point of contact outside hoist point extends to of second angle part, it is characterized in that this bossing has covered lifting region substantially; (ii) this projection comprises first hoist point and second hoist point and first lifting region and second lifting region, first lifting region by the first outer phantom line that extends to point of contact outside of first angle part from first hoist point and outside first hoist point extends to of second angle part first inner imaginary line at point of contact limit, second lifting region by the second outer phantom line that extends to point of contact outside of second angle part from second hoist point and outside second hoist point extends to of first angle part second inner imaginary line at point of contact limit, and it is characterized in that this projection has covered first and second lifting region substantially.

3. membrane cover as claimed in claim 1 it is characterized in that this projection since a discontinuous extension in adjacent with it angle part, and its imaginary line with respect to adjacent angle part is symmetrically arranged substantially.

4. membrane cover as claimed in claim 3 is characterized in that this projection comprises a weakness zone; Preferably, this weakness zone comprises the bossing that limits a hole; Preferably, this hole has the periphery of an opening; And preferably, this bossing combines with hole and limits a slit so that open periphery to be provided.

5. membrane cover as claimed in claim 4 is characterized in that above-mentioned weakness zone comprises the bossing that limits a hole, and this hole has an osed top periphery; Preferably but not necessarily, this hole by one in the above-mentioned imaginary line to dividing.

6. membrane cover as claimed in claim 4 is characterized in that above-mentioned weakness zone comprises a part that quilt is delineated of above-mentioned projection.

7. membrane cover as claimed in claim 6 is characterized in that above-mentioned projection is by crumpling, punch or cutting and delineated.

8. membrane cover as claimed in claim 7 is characterized in that above-mentioned projection delineates by cutting, so this otch should extend through the thickness of projection partially or completely.

9. as each described membrane cover in the claim 1 to 8, it is characterized in that above-mentioned periphery is equilateral triangle substantially.

10. as each described membrane cover in the claim 1 to 9, it is characterized in that this membrane cover is formed by a paper tinsel layer and a polymeric layer at least; Preferably, this membrane cover is to be formed by the layer laminates that comprises acrylic primer layer, paper tinsel layer and ethylene-vinyl acetate layer sealing layer.

11. as each described membrane cover in the claim 1 to 10, it is characterized in that above-mentioned projection stretches out from periphery, but do not have to intersect with the imaginary line of any part of adjacent angular with it.

12., it is characterized in that above-mentioned protrusion comprises a plurality of protrusions as each described membrane cover in the claim 1 to 11.

13., it is characterized in that above-mentioned projection comprises a plurality of projectioies as each described membrane cover in the claim 1 to 12.

14. container, it comprises an antelabium, this antelabium has the horizontal profile that is generally triangular, this antelabium comprises three angle parts and three limits, the structure that it is characterized in that the structure on limit of above-mentioned antelabium and angle part is different, this is in order to increase the relative rigidity of above-mentioned limit relative angle part, so that on the antelabium that a membrane cover is applied in container the time, can produce a basic reaction pressure uniformly.

15. container as claimed in claim 14 is characterized in that above-mentioned antelabium comprises an end face, an outer wall surface and a bottom surface, the angle part of above-mentioned antelabium has an exterior wall surface that is " U " shape substantially of outwards protruding.

16. container as claimed in claim 14, the above-mentioned limit that it is characterized in that above-mentioned antelabium have an outside wall that outwards protrudes, and this outside wall substantially flat, are " U " shape substantially or are " W " shape substantially.

17. container as claimed in claim 14 is characterized in that also comprising a membrane cover, it comprises:

A) surface, this surface comprise having periphery first, second, third angle part, that be generally triangular, it is characterized in that each angle part by an imaginary line to dividing;

B) projection, this projection comprises a protrusion, and this projection initially is used for guiding a hoisting force, makes this power towards at least one angle part, this projection or stretch out from periphery, the imaginary line right and wrong of adjacent angular part are symmetrically arranged with it with respect to any one like this; Or from a discontinuous extension in adjacent with it angle part, the imaginary line with respect to this adjacent angular part is symmetrically arranged like this.

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