Abstract: A plastic container comprising a base that is attached to a body section which is connected to a dome section by a circumferential ring is provided. The dome section comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced hydrostatic pressure absorption panels each located between vertically extending, circumferentially spaced ribs that absorbs at least a substantial portion of the external downwardly directed vertical forces exerted on the container and restores the container to its original shape. In addition, a method of absorbing a downward, vertical top-load is provided.

Abstract: A plastic container comprising a base that is attached to a body section which is connected to a dome section by a circumferential ring is provided. The dome section comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced hydrostatic pressure absorption panels each located between vertically extending, circumferentially spaced ribs that absorbs at least a substantial portion of the external downwardly directed vertical forces exerted on the container and restores the container to its original shape. In addition, a method of absorbing a downward, vertical top-load is provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates a carrier comprising: (a) a bottom wall; (b) two sidewalls; and (c) a top wall having a first edge that forms an edge of at least one collapsible tab when the tab is uncollapsed and a second edge that forms an edge of at least one other collapsible tab when the tab is uncollapsed, wherein the collapsible tabs are adapted to collapse downward and fold inward and out of the plane of the top wall. The carrier of the present invention provides a grasping and handling feature which eliminates the formation of concentrated stress areas while providing a comfortable grip for the consumer.

Abstract: A preform includes a tapered surface having projections formed thereon for contacting an adjacent, nested preform. The projections facilitate removal of a preform that has been inserted into an adjacent preform during shipping or handling prior to the reheat stage. A mold for forming the preforms all includes the projections.

Abstract: A bottle for storing and dispensing fluid comprises a side and at least one vertical rib section situated on the side for improving the bottle's vertical strength. Each vertical rib section comprises a plurality of vertical ribs being vertically and radially-outward extending projections, and panels that separate the vertical ribs. Preferably, the bottle further comprises at least two shoulders on the side, each shoulder being a radially-outward extending projection on the side and being centered at a height along the side of the bottle, wherein each shoulder and each rib section completely surround the side of the bottle such that the plurality of ribs are evenly spaced around the circumference of the bottle.