WO2024201372A1

WO2024201372A1 - Multi-compartment storage container for oral products

Info

Publication number: WO2024201372A1
Application number: PCT/IB2024/053034
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nicholas H. Watson; Mark Shane Hatcher; Jared ALLER; Christina Tapp; Vic Pramono
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Current assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date: 2023-03-31
Filing date: 2024-03-28
Publication date: 2024-10-03
Anticipated expiration: 2025-09-30

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to containers and methods of making same for oral products made or derived from tobacco, incorporate tobacco, or may be tobacco-free and are intended for human consumption. The containers including multiple compartments that may be configured to receive fresh or waste products.

Description

MULTI-COMPARTMENT STORAGE CONTAINER FOR ORAL PRODUCTS

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to storage containers having multiple compartments and methods of making same for oral products made or derived from tobacco, incorporate tobacco, or may be tobacco-free and are intended for human consumption.

BACKGROUND

There are many categories of products intended for oral use and enjoyment. For example, oral tobacco products containing nicotine, which is known to have both stimulant and anxiolytic properties, have been available for many years. Conventional formats for so-called “smokeless” tobacco products include moist snuff, snus, and chewing tobacco, which are typically formed almost entirely of particulate, granular, or shredded tobacco, and which are either portioned by the user or presented to the user in individual portions, such as in single-use pouches or sachets. See for example, the types of smokeless tobacco formulations, ingredients, and processing methodologies set forth in US Pat. Nos. 6,668,839 to Williams; 6,834,654 to Williams; 6,953,040 to Atchley et al.; 7,032,601 to Atchley et al.; and 7,694,686 to Atchley et al.; 7,810,507 to Dube et al.; 7,819,124 to Strickland et al.; 7,861,728 to Holton, Jr. et al.; 7,901,512 to Quinter et al.; 8,627,828 to Strickland et al.; 11,246,334 to Atchley, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

In addition, traditional tobacco materials and non-tobacco materials have been combined with other ingredients to form product formats distinct from traditional smokeless products, with example formats including lozenges, pastilles, gels, and the like. See, for example, the types of products described in US Patent App. Pub. Nos. 2008/0196730 to Engstrom et al.; 2008/0305216 to Crawford et al.; 2009/0293889 to Kumar et al.; 2010/0291245 to Gao et al; 2011/0139164 to Mua et al.; 2012/0037175 to Cantrell et al.; 2012/0055494 to Hunt et al.; 2012/0138073 to Cantrell et al.; 2012/0138074 to Cantrell et al.; 2013/0074855 to Holton, Jr.; 2013/0074856 to Holton, Jr.; 2013/0152953 to Mua et al.; 2013/0274296 to Jackson et al.; 2015/0068545 to Moldoveanu et al.; 2015/0101627 to Marshall et al.; and 2015/0230515 to Lampe et al., each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

There is continuing interest in the development of new types of oral products that deliver advantageous sensorial or biological activity. Such products typically contain flavorants and/or active ingredients such as nicotine, caffeine, botanicals, or cannabidiol. The format of such products can vary, and include pouched products containing a powdered or granular composition, lozenges, pastilles, liquids, gels, emulsions, meltable compositions, and the like. See, for example, the types of products described in US Patent App. Pub. Nos. 2022/0160675 to Gerardi et al.; 2022/0071984 to Poole et al.; 2021/0378948 to Gerardi et al.; 2021/0330590 to Hutchens et al.; 2021/0186081 to Gerardi et al.; 2021/0177754 to Keller et al; 2021/0177043 to Gerardi et al.; 2021/0177038 to Gerardi et al.; 2021/0169867 to Holton, Jr. et al.; 2021/0169792 to Holton, Jr. et al.; 2021/0169132 to Holton, Jr. et al.; 2021/0169121 to St. Charles, and 2021/0169122 to St. Charles, each of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various types of containers for dispensing moistened solid oral components, particularly components intended for human consumption, are known in the art. Such containers are often characterized by a handheld size that can be easily stored and transported. For example, snus and nicotine pouch products have been packaged in tins, "pucks" or "pots" that are manufactured from metal or plastic. See, for example, those types of containers generally disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,098,421 to Foster; 4,190,170 to Boyd and 8,440,023 to Carroll et al.; and U.S. Patent Pub. Nos. 2010/0065076 to Bergstrom et al.; 2010/0065077 to Lofgreen-Ohm et al.; 2012/0024301 to Carroll et al. and 2012/0193265 to Patel et al.; each of which is incorporated by reference herein. Yet other types of containers for oral products are set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 8,458,996 to Bried et al.; D574,709 to Crotts et al. and D649,284 to Patel et al.; U.S. Patent Pub. Nos. 2008/0202956 to Welk et al., 2010/0012534 to Hoffman, 2010/0018883 to Patel et al., and 2014/0197054 to Pipes et al.; as well as the various types of containers referenced in U.S. Patent Pub. No. 2013/0206153 to Beeson et al.; each of which is incorporated by reference herein. Further, U.S. Patent No. 8,567,597 to Gibson et al. discloses a compartment container for snus and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In various implementations, the present disclosure relates to containers having abase or body portion, a cover portion, and a lid, where the cover portion, the body portion, or both include compartments for receiving the products.

The present disclosure includes, without limitation, the following example embodiments.

Embodiment 1: A container comprising a body portion defining a first internal space accessible via a first opening, the body portion comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall extending upwardly from a peripheral edge of the bottom wall; a top cover defining a second internal space via a second opening, the top cover comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall extending upwardly from a peripheral edge of the bottom wall, wherein a bottom surface of the top cover is configured to engage the body portion; and a lid defining a third internal space accessible via a third opening, the lid comprising a top wall and a sidewall extending downwardly from a peripheral edge of the top wall, wherein the lid is configured to engage the top cover.

Embodiment 2: The container of the preceding Embodiment, wherein the body portion sidewall comprises a thinned wall portion terminating at an upper edge defining the first opening, the thinned wall portion defining a groove configured to receive a gasket, the groove extending along a perimeter of the sidewall.

Embodiment 3: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 or 2, or any combination thereof, wherein the bottom surface of the top cover comprises a receptacle configured to securely and removably engage the body portion sidewall.

Embodiment 4: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, or any combination thereof, wherein the thinned wall portion is recessed inwardly from an outer surface of the body portion sidewall so as to define a ledge in the outer surface. Embodiment 5: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 4, or any combination thereof, wherein the thinned wall portion is received within the receptacle of the top cover when the top cover is engaged with the body portion and a lower edge of the top cover sidewall abuts the ledge.

Embodiment 6: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, or any combination thereof, wherein the receptacle is at least partially defined by a first portion and a second portion of the top cover sidewall.

Embodiment 7: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 6, or any combination thereof, further comprising the gasket, wherein the gasket comprises a cross-sectional profile at least partially defined by one or more polygonal or circular shapes.

Embodiment 8: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 7, or any combination thereof, wherein the top cover engages the body portion via an interference fit (aka a press or friction fit) or a snap fit.

Embodiment 9: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 8, or any combination thereof, wherein an outer surface of the top cover sidewall is configured to sit substantially flush with an outer surface of the body portion sidewall when engaged.

Embodiment 10: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 9, or any combination thereof, wherein the second internal space comprises a hinge mechanism configured to pivotally engage a portion of the lid. Alternatively, the lid is hingedly coupled to the top cover via a living hinge or a detachable hinge mechanism.

Embodiment 11: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 10, or any combination thereof, wherein the hinge mechanism comprises a support wall spaced inwardly from the top cover sidewall defining a groove therebetween, wherein the groove is configured to receive an edge or a portion of the lid sidewall when the lid is in an open configuration.

Embodiment 12: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 11, or any combination thereof, wherein the lid is pivotable between a closed configuration and the open configuration upon application of a force to the lid proximate the hinge mechanism.

Embodiment 13: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 12, or any combination thereof, wherein the lid sidewall is configured to securely and removably engage the second internal space of the top cover in the closed configuration.

Embodiment 14: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 13, or any combination thereof, wherein the lid sidewall defines a groove configured to receive a gasket, the groove extending along a perimeter of the lid sidewall.

Embodiment 15: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 14, or any combination thereof, further comprising the gasket.

Embodiment 16 The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 15, or any combination thereof, wherein the lid engages the top cover via an interference fit or a snap fit. Embodiment 17: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 16, or any combination thereof, wherein the lid is separable from the top cover. Alternatively, the lid may be hingedly coupled to the top cover and/or be detachable.

Embodiment 18: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 17, or any combination thereof, wherein the second internal space further comprises a plurality of supports disposed about a perimeter of the internal space and configured to support the lid when engaged with the top cover.

Embodiment 19: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 18, or any combination thereof, wherein the supports are spaced equidistant about the perimeter of the second internal space.

Embodiment 20: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 19, or any combination thereof, wherein a bottom edge of the top cover sidewall defines a recess oriented proximate the ledge in the body portion sidewall when the top cover and body portion are engaged.

Embodiment 21: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 20, or any combination thereof, wherein an outer surface of the lid is configured to sit substantially flush with an outer surface of the top cover sidewall when engaged.

Embodiment 22: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 21, or any combination thereof, wherein the first internal space comprises a first volume and the second internal space comprises a second volume that is less than the first volume.

Embodiment 23: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 22, or any combination thereof, wherein the third internal space is oriented within the second internal space when the top cover and lid are engaged.

Embodiment 24: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 23, or any combination thereof, wherein the body portion sidewall and the top cover sidewall define a polygonal shape of the container.

Embodiment 25: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 24, or any combination thereof, wherein the body portion, the top cover, and the lid each comprise a hexagonal shape.

Embodiment 26: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 25, or any combination thereof, wherein the body portion side wall and the top cover sidewall are beveled.

Embodiment 27: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 26, or any combination thereof, wherein the bottom wall of the top cover comprises a flexible material or membrane. For example, the bottom wall may comprise a resilient material that allows the volume of the second internal space to expand as it is filled (e.g., a waste compartment that expands into a body portion of the container as the amount of waste product increase and the fresh product decreases) and then return to its original shape/volume when emptied.

Embodiment 28: The container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 27, or any combination thereof, wherein the lid is hingedly coupled to the top cover via a living hinge.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description together with the accompanying figures, which are briefly described below. The present disclosure includes any combination of two, three, four or more features or elements set forth in this disclosure, regardless of whether such features or elements are expressly combined or otherwise recited in a specific example implementation described herein. This disclosure is intended to be read holistically such that any separable features or elements of the disclosure, in any of its aspects and example implementations, should be viewed as combinable, unless the context of the disclosure clearly dictates otherwise.

It will therefore be appreciated that this Brief Summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example implementations to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above described example implementations are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the disclosure in any way. Other example implementations, aspects and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of some described example implementations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Having thus described aspects of the disclosure in the foregoing general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying figures, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic front perspective view of a container for holding a tobacco-containing material according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1A is a schematic front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the container shown in FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a schematic bottom perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a schematic top view of the container of FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3A is a schematic top view of an alternative embodiment of the container shown in FIG. 3 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a schematic bottom view of the container of FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a schematic front, left side view of the container of FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5A is a schematic front, left side view of an alternative embodiment of the container shown in FIG. 5 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a schematic front, right side view of the container of FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a schematic side view of the container of FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure; FIG. 9A is a schematic exploded front, left side view of the container of FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9B is an alternative schematic exploded front, left side view of the container of FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 1 taken at line 10-10 in FIG. 3 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10B is an alternative schematic cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 1 taken at line 10- 10 in FIG. 3 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 1 taken at line 11-11 in FIG. 3 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 A is an enlarged portion of the cross-sectional view of FIG. 11 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1 IB is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the container shown in FIG. 11 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a schematic front perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 in a partially open configuration according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12A is a schematic front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the container shown in FIG. 12 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a schematic bottom perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 in a partially open configuration according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 A is a schematic bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the container shown in FIG. 13 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a schematic top view of the container of FIG. 1 in a partially open configuration according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14A is a schematic top view of an alternative embodiment of the container shown in FIG. 14 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a schematic front, left side view of the container of FIG. 1 in a partially open configuration according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 A is a schematic front, left side view of an alternative embodiment of the container shown in FIG. 15 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 is a schematic front, right side view of the container of FIG. 1 in a partially open configuration according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 A is a schematic front, right side view of an alternative embodiment of the container shown in FIG. 16 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is a schematic side view of the container of FIG. 1 in a partially open configuration according to some example implementations of the present disclosure; FIG. 17A is a schematic side view of an alternative embodiment of the container shown in FIG. 17 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 is a schematic front perspective view of a top cover of a container for holding a tobaccocontaining material according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18A is a schematic front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the top cover of the container shown in FIG. 18 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 is a schematic bottom perspective view of the top cover of FIG. 18 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 A is a schematic bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the top cover shown in FIG. 19 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 is a schematic top view of the top cover of FIG. 18 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 is a schematic bottom view of the top cover of FIG. 18 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 A is a schematic bottom view of an alternative embodiment of the top cover shown in FIG. 21 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22 is a schematic front, left side view of the top cover of FIG. 18 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22A is a schematic front, left side view of an alternative embodiment of the top cover shown in FIG. 22 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 23 is a schematic front, right side view of the top cover of FIG. 18 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 24 is a schematic front perspective view of a base portion of a container for holding a tobaccocontaining material according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 25 is a schematic bottom perspective view of the base portion of FIG. 24 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26 is a schematic top view of the base portion of FIG. 24 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27 is a schematic front, left side view of the base portion of FIG. 24 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 28 is a schematic front perspective view of a lid for a container for holding a tobacco-containing material according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 29 is a schematic bottom perspective view of the lid of FIG. 28 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

FIG. 30 is a schematic side view of the lid of FIG. 28 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure; and FIGS. 31A-J are schematic cross-sectional views of various gaskets for use with a container for holding a tobacco-containing material according to some example implementations of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some implementations of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures, in which some, but not all implementations of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, various implementations of the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the implementations set forth herein; rather, these example implementations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

Unless specified otherwise or clear from context, references to first, second or the like should not be construed to imply a particular order. A feature described as being above another feature (unless specified otherwise or clear from context) may instead be below, and vice versa; and similarly, features described as being to the left of another feature else may instead be to the right, and vice versa. Also, while reference may be made herein to quantitative measures, values, geometric relationships, or the like, unless otherwise stated, any one or more if not all of these may be absolute or approximate to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as those due to engineering tolerances or the like.

As used herein, unless specified otherwise or clear from context, the “or” of a set of operands is the “inclusive or” and thereby true if and only if one or more of the operands is true, as opposed to the “exclusive or” which is false when all the operands are tme. Thus, for example, “[A] or [B]” is true if [A] is true, or if [B] is true, or if both [A] and [B] are true. Further, the articles “a” and “an” mean “one or more,” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Furthermore, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified, the terms “data,” “content,” “digital content,” “information,” and similar terms may be at times used interchangeably. Additionally, where multiples of the same components are described, the multiples may be referred to individually (e.g., ##a, ##b, ##c, etc.) or collectively (##).

The shape of the outer surface of the containers of the disclosure can vary. Although the container embodiments illustrated in the drawings have certain contours and shapes, containers with other exterior and interior surface designs also can be suitably adapted and used. For example, the sides or edges (120a, 120b) of the containers of the disclosure can be flattened, rounded, chamfered, or beveled, and the various surfaces or edges of the container exterior can be concave or convex. Further, the opposing sides, ends, or edges of the container can be parallel or non-parallel such that the container becomes narrower in one or more dimensions. See, for example, the types of containers, components, component arrangements and configurations, and constructions thereof set forth in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,458,996 to Bried et al., 8,910,781 to Pipes et al., and D649,284 to Patel et al.; U.S. Patent Pub. Nos. 2010/0018883, 2023/0013978, and 2022/0104543, all to Patel et al; U.S. Appl. No. 29/794,622, filed 6/14/21 to Bailey et al.; U.S. Appl. No. 29/794,626, filed 6/14/21 to Bailey et al.; U.S. Appl. No. 29/801,745, filed 7/30/21 to Horton et al.; U.S. Appl. No. 29/806,411, filed 9/2/21 to Bailey et al.; as well as the various types of containers referenced in U.S. Patent Pub. No. 2013/0206153 to Beeson et al.; each of which is incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. The shapes and sizes of the containers described herein can vary without departing from the disclosure. In some embodiments, the containers can be described as having a cylindrical shape suitable for handheld manipulation and operation; however, other multi-sided shapes (e.g., rectangular, hexagonal, pentagonal, octagonal, oblong etc.) are contemplated and considered within the scope of the disclosure. Exemplary dimensions for such handheld generally cylindrical embodiments include diameters in the range of about 50 mm to about 100 mm, and more typically about 60 mm to about 80 mm. Exemplary wall thicknesses include the range of about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, and more typically about 0.8 mm to about 1.4 mm. Exemplary depths for handheld container embodiments of the present disclosure range from about 5 mm to about 50 mm, more typically about 8 mm to about 30 mm, and most often about 15 mm to about 25 mm. An exemplary general outward appearance of the container is comparable in many regards to that which has been used for commercially available GRIZZLY® and KODIAK® products that are marketed by American Snuff Company, LLC.

Further, the size of the containers described herein may be changed. For example, the containers may be sized for promotional purposes by providing either increased or decreased dimensions. For example, the dimensions of the containers may be scaled upwardly or downwardly by certain multipliers. By way of further example, the dimensions of the container may be scaled upwardly or downwardly by a multiple of about 1 to about 10 times. In this regard, whereas a conventional container according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured to store about 1.2 ounces of an oral product, an oversized container may be configured to store, for example, 2.4 ounces or 7.2 ounces of the oral product. In specialty markets the containers may define a larger cylindrical configuration having a diameter from about 100 mm to about 125 mm (e.g., about 114 mm) and a depth from about 30 mm to about 50 mm (e.g., about 38 mm). Accordingly, the dimensions and capacities disclosed herein are provided for example purposes only and may be modified to suit particular applications.

FIGS. 1-11, depict one example implementation of a container 100 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The container 100 includes a base or body portion 102 that is typically configured to hold the consumer product and a top cover 104 configured to be securely, but removably, coupled to the body portion 102. The top cover 104 and body portion 102 abut one another when engaged and their respective outer surfaces are substantially flush with one another, which makes it difficult to separate the two parts. In some implementations, the cover 104 is secured to the body portion 102 via a snap or interference fit, which provides additional resistance to separating the two parts. In some embodiments, the top cover 104 includes a recess 122 disposed along a perimeter thereof that provides a space to assist a user in removing the top cover 104 from the base 102. For example, the recess 122 may allow a user to pry open the top cover 104 by using a tool or fingernail. The container 100 further comprises a lid 106 that sits flush within the top cover 104. The various components 102, 104, 106 are depicted in greater detail in FIGS. 18-23 (top cover 104), FIGS. 24-27 (body portion 102), and FIGS. 28-30 (lid 106).

Referring to FIGS. 24-27, the body portion 102 includes a bottom wall 108 and a sidewall 110 extending upwardly from, and about, a peripheral edge of the bottom wall 108. The sidewall 110 has a top edge or upper rim 112 that in turn defines an opening 114 through which the contents of the container 100 may be accessed. In some embodiments, the peripheral edge or sidewall 110 comprises a beveled or chamfered surface 120a that transitions between the bottom wall 108 and the sidewall 110. The bottom wall 108 and sidewall 110 define an internal space 140, which may be accessible via the opening 114 when the top cover 104 is removed therefrom. The internal space 140 of the body portion 102 may be configured to receive, for example, a fresh product, such as chewing tobacco, snuff, snus, nicotine pouches, other tobacco-containing or nicotine-containing oral products (such as lozenges, pastilles, chews, melts, tablets, sticks, strips, orbs, etc.), tobacco- and nicotine-free alternative oral products, or any of the other products/materials disclosed herein.

The sidewall 110 depicted in the figures is a single, contiguous wall defining a hexagonal shape; however, the wall 110 may comprise multiple arcuate and/or linear segments as necessary to suit a particular application. For example, the container 100 may have a cylindrical shape, a polygonal shape (e.g., rectangular, octagonal, etc.) or a combination thereof. The sidewall 110 includes a thinned section 136 that terminates at the top edge 112. For example, an upper portion of the wall 110 may be recessed inwardly from an outer surface thereof 110a so as to form a ledge 138 as discussed in greater detail below. An inner surface 110b of the wall will be substantially planar. The thinned wall section 136 extends along the entire perimeter of the body portion 102, with an outer surface thereof defining a groove 126a therein that extends the entire perimeter of the wall section 136. The groove 126a is configured to receive a gasket therein as discussed in greater detail below.

The material of construction of the body portion 102 may vary to suit a particular application. Exemplary materials include metal (e.g., an anodized aluminum), synthetic plastic materials, cellulosic materials (e.g., cardboard), and combinations thereof. Polymeric materials that can be extmded and/or molded into desired shapes are typically utilized, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyamide, and the like. Various portions of the body portion 102 (and container 100) may comprise different types of materials and/or materials having different hardnesses (e.g., some portions may be more flexible than other portions to, for example, provide for expansion, enhanced grip, ease of opening, etc.). In some implementations, the body portion may comprise a transparent or translucent material that allows a user to detect a level of freshness, or other condition, of the product contained therein without the need for opening the container, which may negatively impact the freshness of the product depending on the frequency of opening. The body portion 102 may be manufactured via injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, extmsion, bonding, machining, or combinations thereof, as known to a person of skill in the art.

Referring to FIGS. 18-23, the top cover 104 includes a top wall 116 and a sidewall 118 that extends from a peripheral edge of the top wall 116. Generally, a first portion 118a of the sidewall extends upwardly from the top wall 116 to a top edge 134a defining an internal space 150 and an opening 152 through which the internal space 150 may be accessed. The internal space 150 may be used to hold or store waste or spent materials. A second portion 118b of the sidewall extends outwardly and downwardly from the top edge 134a and terminating at a lower edge 134b. In some embodiments, the lower edge 134b extends past (or below) a bottom surface 116b of the top wall 116. As can be seen in FIGS. 10A, 10B, 11 and 19, a receptacle 142 is defined by the first and second portions of the sidewall 118a, 118b as described in greater detail below.

The internal space 150 of the top cover 104 includes structure for engaging with the lid 106. Specifically, the top cover 104 includes a hinge mechanism 128 disposed within the internal space 150. The hinge mechanism 128 includes a hinge wall 130 spaced inwardly from the first portion of the sidewall 118a and defining a groove 132 therebetween. The ends 130a, 130b of the hinge wall 130 are connected to the first portion of the sidewall 118a via a dog-leg or similar structure. The top cover 104 further includes a plurality of supports 148 disposed about a perimeter of the internal space 150. The supports 148 may be evenly spaced along the first portion of the sidewall 118a and have a height or thickness equal or substantially equal to the height/thickness of the hinge wall 130, all of which are configured to support/receive the lid 106 so as to maintain the lid within the internal space 150 and flush with an outer surface of the top cover 104. In the depicted embodiment, the opening 152 has a hexagonal shape configured to receive a similarly shaped lid 106; however, the shape of the opening 152 and lid 106 may vary to suit a particular application, but will have complimentary shapes to allow for the lid 106 to engage the top cover 104 as described herein. Also in the depicted embodiment, there are four supports 148 shown; however, the number of supports 148 and their spacing will vary to suit a particular application (e.g., size and shape of the container).

In some implementations, the top cover 104 includes a recess 122 or similar structure that may, for example, assist a user in handling the container 100 and/or manipulating the top cover 104. For example, the recess 122 may allow a user to pry open the top cover 104 from the body portion 102 (e.g., by using a tool or fingernail) to access the internal space 140 of the body portion. In the depicted embodiment, the recess 122 is formed in the lower edge 134b of the sidewall 118 and oriented so as to expose a portion (e.g., less than about 1/16^th of an inch) of the ledge 138 of the body portion 102 (see FIGS. 1 and 5). The recess 122 as shown is oriented diametrically opposed to the hinge mechanism 128; however, the placement, shape, and size may vary to suit a particular application. In some implementations, the top cover 104 may be made of the same materials and by the same processes as the body portion 102.

Referring to FIGS. 28-30, the lid 106 includes a top wall 144 and a sidewall 146 that extends downwardly from a peripheral edge of the top wall 144 defining an internal space 160. Generally, the internal space 160 is a third internal space of the container 100 that is created by virtue of the structure of the lid 106. The internal space 160 is not configured to hold or store any particular material, but is actually subsumed within the second internal space 150 of the top cover 104. See, for example, FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 11.

The top wall 144 may be substantially planar or have a slight curvature or contour to suit the container (e.g., aesthetic purposes, ease of handling, etc.). An outer surface of the sidewall 146 defines a groove 126b therein that extends the entire perimeter of the sidewall 146. The groove 126b is configured to receive a gasket therein as discussed in greater detail below. In some implementations, the lid 106 may be made of the same materials and by the same processes as the body portion 102 and the top cover. In some implementations, the lid 106 may be manufactured separately from and of a different material than the top cover 104 to, for example, provide labeling or other indicia or to serve an aesthetic purpose. Referring back to FIGS. 1-11, the assembly and operation of the container is described in greater detail. FIGS. 1-7 depict the container 100 is an assembled and closed configuration. As can be seen, the body portion 102, top cover 104, and lid 106 are substantially flush with one another when assembled and has a “puck-like” appearance. The overall shape of the container 100 is hexagonal with the body portion sidewall 110 and the top cover sidewall 118 including a beveled edge that may provide a more comfortable carrying/holding experience and/or more aesthetic appearance.

FIGS. 8, 9A, and 9B are exploded views of the container depicting the gaskets 124a, 124b in addition to the body portion 102, the top cover 104, and the lid 106. Specifically, the groove 126a in the body portion 102 is configured to receive the larger gasket 124a, which provides sealing between the body portion 102 and the top cover 104 as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. The size and cross-sectional shape of the gasket 124a may vary to suit a particular application. For example, as shown in FIG. 9A, the groove 126a is relatively narrow with respect to the overall height of the thinned wall portion 136 and, therefore, receives a narrower gasket 124a. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 9B, the groove 126a’ is relatively wide and extends across a substantial portion of the wall 136’. In some cases, the groove 126a’ is not specifically provided. Instead, the wall 136’ is recessed relative to the top edge 112’ ofthe body portion 102’ (see, e.g., FIG. 11 A). The lid 106 also includes a groove 126b that is configured to receive a gasket 124b that provides sealing between the lid 106 and the top cover 104. The various gaskets are described in greater detail, below. In some embodiments, the gaskets 124a, 124b also provide for frictional engagement between the respective parts of the container 100.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 11 are enlarged cross-sectional views of the container with FIGS. lOA and 10B corresponding to FIGS. 9 A and 9B depicting the alternative body portion gaskets 124a, 124a’. As shown in FIG. 10A, the gaskets 124a, 124b have substantially circular cross-sectional shapes and may comprise a type of O-ring, while in FIG. 10B the gaskets 124a’, 124b’ have an almost pyramidal orfrusto-conical shape insofar as the gaskets 124a’, 124b’have a wider base which sits within the groove and a narrow extension therefrom that engages the inner wall of the top cover 104’.

As shown in the cross-sectional views, the top cover 104 engages with the body portion 102 via insertion of the body portion sidewall 110 into the receptacle 142 defined by the sidewall 118 of the cover 104. In some implementations, the top cover engages the sidewall 110 with an interference or frictional fit (e.g., via the gasket 124a). The bottom edge 134b of the top cover sidewall 118 may abut the ledge 138 about their peripheries and their sidewalls 110, 118 are substantially flush with the recess 122 providing a space to assist in separating the top cover 104 and the body portion 102 as described above. Additionally, the lid 106 engages the top cover 104 by being received within the internal space 150 of the top cover 104 so that the sidewall 146 and gasket 124b engage with the inner or first sidewall portion 118a. In some implementations, the lid 106 engages the sidewall 118a with an interference or frictional fit (e.g., via the gasket 124b) and sits flush within the top cover 104.

The cross-sectional views further depict the relationships between the internal spaces 140, 150, and 160. In some embodiments, the internal spaces 140, 150 may define substantially equal volumes or the volumes may differ to suit a particular application, e.g., the top cover internal space 150 may be about 90%, about 80%, about 70%, about 60%, about 50%, about 40%, about 30%, about 20%, about 10% of the volume of the body portion internal space 140. As further depicted, the internal space of the lid 160 becomes part of the top cover internal space 150 when assembled.

To remove the lid 106, a user applies a force (F) to the top wall 144 of the lid 106 (i.e., depresses the lid) at an area proximate the hinge assembly 128 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 17. FIGS. 12-17 depict various views of the container 100 with the lid in a partially open configuration. Generally, the lid 106 is in a fully open, but attached configuration that is referred to as partially open, while a fully open configuration would include removing the lid 106 so that the entire internal space 150 of the top cover 104 is exposed. FIG. 11 A provides an enlarged view of the lid 106 pivoting on the hinge mechanism 128 during application of the force (F) to the lid such that a portion (e.g., edge) of the lid moves into the hinge groove 132 while the opposite edge of the lid 106 rises relative to the top cover 104 (see FIGS. 12-17). In this configuration, a user may grasp the lid 106 to fully remove it from the container 100, although this is not required for access the internal space 150. Once the force is removed, the lid 106 falls back into place within the internal space 150 of the top cover 104. In some embodiments and depending on the nature of the fit between the lid and the top cover, a slight force may be applied to the lid 106 generally to fully seat the lid within the top cover 104. As can be seen in FIGS. 12-17, the lid 106 is shown in the partially open configuration depicting how a user may access the internal space 150 of the top cover 104 from different angles.

FIGS. 1A, 3A, 5A, 11B, 12A, 13A, 14A, 15A, 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A, 21 A, and 22A depict additional and/or alternative features of the containers 100 described above. For example, in some embodiments, the top cover 104’ and lid 106’ are a unitary piece, with the lid 106’ hingedly coupled to the top cover 104’. Additionally, the body portion 102’, top cover 104’, and lid 106’ can be assembled via a snap or interference fit without the use of gaskets, as described above. Furthermore, one additional feature can include making a wall or portion of the container of a flexible material that allows the material to “stretch” to accommodate additional products. For example, the bottom wall 116’ of the top cover 106’ may comprise a resilient material that allows the volume of the second internal space 150’ to expand as it is filled (thereby reducing the volume of the first internal space 140’ when assembled) and then return to its original shape/volume when emptied. And in the same manner, the flexible membrane that makes up the bottom wall 116’ allows for the expansion of the first internal space 140’ into the second internal space 150’. For example, see arrow X in FIG. 10B.

FIGS. 1A, 3A, and 5A are alternative views of the assembled containers 100’ in their closed configuration. It should be noted that the same parts utilize the same basic reference numerals and not every component may be labeled in the alternative views, but the numbering can be carried through from the original views (e.g., FIG. 1, 3, and 5) and may not be repeated in certain figures or in the specification. For example, the alternative container 100’ has the same basic stmcture of the container 100 described hereinabove; e.g., both include a body portion 102, 102’, a top cover 104, 104’, and a lid 106, 106’ and so forth. As shown, the base portion 102’ has a slightly larger and flatter shape as opposed to that shown in the earlier described figures. This increased surface area may be useful for labeling purposes. As can also be seen, the top cover 104’ includes a recess 122’ disposed along an upper perimeter thereof that provides a space to assist a user in removing or separating the lid 106’ from the top cover 104’. For example, the recess 122’ may allow a user to pry open the lid 104’ by using a tool or fingernail. In the depicted embodiment, the recess 122 disposed along the lower perimeter of the top cover (see, e.g., FIG. 5) is not included and the top cover 104’ and the body portion 102’ may still be separated by a tool of fingernail. For example, the tool or fingernail can be inserted into the thin gap disposed between the lower edge of the top cover 104’ and an upper edge of the body portion 102’ that is partially defined by the ledge 138’. Also, similar to lid 106, lid 106’ sits flush with the exterior of the top cover 104’ when closed.

FIGS. 11B, 12A, 13 A, 14A, 15A, 16A, and 17A are alternative views of the top cover 104’ and lid 106’ assembly of a container shown in their open configuration. Again, the same parts utilize the same basic reference numerals and not every component may be labeled in the alternative views and/or specifically cited in the specification. As can be seen, the lid 106’ is hingedly coupled to the top cover 104’ via a hinge 128’, such as a thin strip of material forming a living hinge. As can be seen in FIGS. 12 A and 14 A, the previously described hinge mechanism 128 is not included in the unitary top cover and lid assembly; however, in some embodiments, all or a portion of the hinge mechanism 128 may be included to suit a particular application (e.g., additional support to prevent the lid 106’ from being collapsed).

Further shown in these figures is the sidewall 146’ without the groove for a gasket. In this embodiment, the wall 146’ includes a series of protuberances 147a’ disposed thereabout that provide a snap- fit between the lid 106’ and the top cover 104’ when closed. FIG. 12A further depicts an optional mating protuberance(s) 147b’ disposed on the interior wall of the top cover 104 ’ for additional resistance to inadvertent opening of the lid 106’. As can be seen in FIG. 11B, the sidewall 146’ of the lid 106’, which partially defines the third internal space 160’, sits within the second internal space 150’. FIG. 13A provides a view of the underside of the top cover and lid assembly that provides a better view of the receptacle 142’ that is defined by the first or inner portion 118a’ of the top cover sidewall that extends upwardly from the top wall 116’ and reverses direction to form the second or outer portion 118b of the top cover sidewall. See, for example, FIGS. 10A, 10B, 11, 11A, 11B, and 19.

FIGS. 18A, 19A, 21A, and 22A are alternative views of the unitary top cover 104’ and lid 106’ assemblies in their closed configuration. FIGS. 18A and 22A illustrate that the lid 106’ sits flush in the top cover 104’ and can be opened via the gap 122’ provided in the upper perimeter of the top cover 104’. FIGS. 19A and 21 A provide additional views of the underside of the top cover and lid assembly illustrating the receptacle 142’ that is defined by the inner and outer sidewall portions 118a’, 118b’ and configured to receive an upper portion of the body portion sidewall. The top cover 104’ may include additional structures or support disposed within and along a perimeter of the receptacle 142’.

FIGS. 31A-31J depict a variety of gasket 224A, 324A, 424A, 524A, 624A, 724A, 824A, 924A, 1024 A, 1124A shapes that may be used to suit a particular application. Depending on the particular configuration of the container, the gasket may be optional or have any size or shape to suit that configuration. Generally, only the body portion gaskets are shown in their respective body portion grooves 226 A, 326 A, 426 A, 526 A, 626 A, 726 A, 826 A, 926 A, 1026 A, 1126 A; however, the lid gaskets and grooves can have the same shapes. In some embodiments, the gaskets have a base portion 262, 362, 1062, 1162 that sits within the groove and may be retained therein by an adhesive or the resiliency of the gasket from being stretched to fit within the groove. The gaskets can have a variety of shapes from conventional O-rings to rectangular bases with curved or frusto-conical extensions 264, 364, 1064, 1164 that extend slightly beyond the groove so as to engage and seal with the inner wall of the top cover. In some embodiments (e.g., FIGS. 31H-31 J), the gasket includes a flange 966, 1066, 1166 that may further secure the gasket within the groove. The gasket materials can also vary to suit a particular application and may include, for example, nitrile (Buna), neoprene, ethylene propylene (EPDM rubber), silicone, fluorocarbon (Viton), and PTFE (Teflon).

In various implementations of the containers described herein, the containers may include additional features, such as a barrier fdm or membrane configured to cover the opening in the body portion, thereby enclosing the internal space. By way of example, the barrier film may comprise a foil or a film (e.g., a polymer film) and/or may contain a material selected and configured to be substantially fluid-impervious so as to prevent the flow of fluids from the internal space to an external environment or allow the transmission of gasses therethrough (e.g., diffusion of oxygen into the internal space) to maintain the freshness of the oral product by supporting the health of aerobic microbes within the oral products. Another feature that may be included is a vent mechanism disposed in the body portion, the cover, or both to help regulate an internal pressure or other environmental condition within the container.

In some embodiments, the cover or lid portion sealingly engages with the body portion so as to enclose the internal space in a manner that helps alleviate moisture loss to any oral products housed inside the container. The sealed engagement may be via, for example, the inclusion of a seal arrangement or sealing member (e.g., an O-ring) disposed within the lid portion that abuts an upper edge or rim of a sidewall of the body portion (for example, a gasket within the receptacle 142). However, in some embodiments, the sealing engagement may be affected by the manner in which the lid portion and body portion engage (e.g., an interference fit or the coupling of complimentary structures), with or without an additional seal arrangement.

Many modifications and other implementations of the disclosure will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated figures. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific implementations disclosed herein and that modifications and other implementations are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A container comprising: a body portion defining a first internal space accessible via a first opening, the body portion comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall extending upwardly from a peripheral edge of the bottom wall; a top cover defining a second internal space via a second opening, the top cover comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall extending upwardly from a peripheral edge of the bottom wall, wherein a bottom surface of the top cover is configured to engage the body portion; and a lid defining a third internal space accessible via a third opening, the lid comprising a top wall and a sidewall extending downwardly from a peripheral edge of the top wall, wherein the lid is configured to engage the top cover.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the body portion sidewall comprises a thinned wall portion terminating at an upper edge defining the first opening, the thinned wall portion defining a groove configured to receive a gasket, the groove extending along a perimeter of the sidewall.

3. The container of claim 2, wherein the bottom surface of the top cover comprises a receptacle configured to securely and removably engage the body portion sidewall.

4. The container of claim 3, wherein the thinned wall portion is recessed inwardly from an outer surface of the body portion sidewall so as to define a ledge in the outer surface.

5. The container of claim 4, wherein the thinned wall portion is received within the receptacle of the top cover when the top cover is engaged with the body portion and a lower edge of the top cover sidewall abuts the ledge.

6. The container of claim 3 wherein the receptacle is at least partially defined by a first portion and a second portion of the top cover sidewall.

7. The container of claim 2 further comprising the gasket.

8. The container of claim 1, wherein the top cover engages the body portion via an interference fit or a snap fit.

9. The container of claim 8, wherein an outer surface of the top cover sidewall is configured to sit substantially flush with an outer surface of the body portion sidewall when engaged.

10. The container of claim 1, wherein the second internal space comprises a hinge mechanism configured to pivotally engage a portion of the lid.

11. The container of claim 10, wherein the hinge mechanism comprises a support wall spaced inwardly from the top cover sidewall defining a groove therebetween, wherein the groove is configured to receive an edge or a portion of the lid sidewall when the lid is in an open configuration.

12. The container of claim 11, wherein the lid is pivotable between a closed configuration and the open configuration upon application of a force to the lid proximate the hinge mechanism.

13. The container of claim 12, wherein the lid sidewall is configured to securely and removably engage the second internal space of the top cover in the closed configuration.

14. The container of claim 1, wherein the lid sidewall defines a groove configured to receive a gasket, the groove extending along a perimeter of the lid sidewall.

15. The container of claim 14 further comprising the gasket.

16. The container of claim 15, wherein the lid engages the top cover via an interference fit or a snap fit.

17. The container of claim 16, wherein the lid is separable from the top cover.

18. The container of claim 10, wherein the second internal space further comprises a plurality of supports disposed about a perimeter of the internal space and configured to support the lid when engaged with the top cover.

19. The container of claim 18, wherein the supports are spaced equidistant about the perimeter of the second internal space.

20. The container of claim 5, wherein a bottom edge of the top cover sidewall defines a recess oriented proximate the ledge in the body portion sidewall when the top cover and body portion are engaged.

21. The container of claim 1, wherein an outer surface of the lid is configured to sit substantially flush with an outer surface of the top cover sidewall when engaged.

22. The container of claim 1, wherein the first internal space comprises a first volume and the second internal space comprises a second volume that is less than the first volume.

23. The container of claim 1, wherein the third internal space is oriented within the second internal space when the top cover and lid are engaged.

24. The container of claim 1, wherein the body portion sidewall and the top cover sidewall define a polygonal shape of the container.

25. The container of claim 1, wherein the body portion, the top cover, and the lid each comprise a hexagonal shape.

26. The container of claim 1, wherein the body portion side wall and the top cover sidewall are beveled.

27. The container of claim 1, wherein the bottom wall of the top cover comprises a flexible material.

28. The container of claim 1, wherein the lid is hingedly coupled to the top cover via a living hinge.