DRUM WITH SIDEWALL

Abstract

A container for shipping and/or storage includes a cylindrical sidewall extending from a first end to a second end and a bottom closure. The bottom closure is configured to be coupled to the second end of the cylindrical sidewall to close the second end of the cylindrical sidewall.

Description

BACKGROUND

Embodiments of the present invention relate to the field of relatively large containers such as drums or barrels used for shipping bulk dry and liquid goods. Embodiments of the present invention relate specifically to a container with a sidewall with at least one open end and a plastic bottom closure coupled to the sidewall closing the at least one open end.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An embodiment of a shipping drum is provided. The shipping drum includes a fibrous cylindrical sidewall extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end to a second end and having an inner surface and an outer surface. The shipping drum also includes a bottom closure. The bottom closure is formed from plastic and includes inner and outer walls proximate the radial periphery of the bottom closure. The inner and outer walls define a channel configured to receive the second end of the sidewall therein. The inner wall includes first discontinuous threading portions extending outwardly into the channel. The outer wall includes second discontinuous threading portions extending inwardly into the channel. The first and second discontinuous threading portions engage the sidewall wall to couple the bottom closure to the sidewall.

An embodiment of a drum is provided. The drum includes a cylindrical sidewall extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end to a second end. The cylindrical sidewall has an inner surface and an outer surface. The sidewall includes a plurality of apertures proximate the second end. The drum also includes a bottom closure. The bottom closure includes a first wall and a second wall spaced apart from the first wall. The first and second walls form a channel therebetween configured to receive the second end of the cylindrical sidewall. The first wall has a first surface proximate the channel and a first projection projecting from the first surface into the channel. The first projection includes a first engagement surface. The second wall has a second surface proximate the channel and a second projection projecting from the second surface into the channel. The second projection includes a second engagement surface. The first projection projects into one of the apertures of the sidewall. The first engagement surface engages the sidewall to couple the bottom closure to the sidewall. The second projection projects into another of the apertures of the sidewall. The second engagement surface engages the sidewall to couple the bottom closure to the sidewall.

Another embodiment of a drum is provided. The drum includes a cylindrical sidewall extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end to a second end. The drum has an inner surface and an outer surface. The sidewall includes a plurality of apertures proximate the second end. The drum includes a plastic bottom closure. The bottom closure includes a first wall and a second wall spaced apart from the first wall. The first and second walls form a channel therebetween configured to receive the second end of the cylindrical sidewall. The second wall includes a plurality of apertures therethrough. The drum includes a plurality of plastic fasteners each passing through an aperture and coupling the bottom closure to the sidewall.

Alternative exemplary embodiments relate to other features and combinations of features as may be generally recited in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

This application will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shipping and storage drum in accordance with the invention.

FIG. 2 is a partial, sectional view taken along the line 2-2 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken along the line 3-3 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a drum.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a drum.

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a chime.

FIG. 6A a perspective view of the bottom of an embodiment of a chime.

FIG. 6B is a detail view of the area 6B illustrated in FIG. 6A illustrating the channel of an embodiment of a chime illustrating a threading feature.

FIG. 6C is a detail view of the area 6C illustrated in FIG. 6A illustrating the channel of an embodiment of a chime illustrating another threading feature.

FIG. 6D is a perspective view of an embodiment of a chime with portions of the outer and inner walls shown transparently to illustrate features of the outer and inner walls.

FIG. 6E is a detail view of the area 6E illustrated in FIG. 6D.

FIG. 6F is a detail view of the area 6F illustrated in FIG. 6D.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a chime coupled to a sidewall (only a portion of which is illustrated in FIG. 7)

FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 7A-7A in FIG. 7 of an embodiment of a chime coupled to a sidewall.

FIG. 7B is a detail view of the area 7B illustrated in FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a top closure.

FIG. 8A is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a top closure.

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a top closure coupled to a chime coupled to a sidewall (only a portion of which is illustrated in FIG. 9).

FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 9A-9A in FIG. 9 of an embodiment of a top closure coupled to a chime coupled to a sidewall (only a portion of which is illustrated in FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9B is a detail cross-sectional view of the area 9B illustrated in FIG. 9A illustrating an embodiment of a top closure coupled to an embodiment of a chime coupled to a sidewall.

FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a bottom closure.

FIG. 10A is perspective view of the bottom of an embodiment of a bottom closure.

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of an embodiment of a bottom closure with portions of the outer and inner walls shown transparently to illustrate features of the outer and inner walls.

FIG. 10C is a detail view of the area 10C illustrated in FIG. 10B.

FIG. 10D is a detail view of the area 10D illustrated in FIG. 10 B.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a bottom closure coupled to a sidewall (only a portion of which is illustrated in FIG. 11).

FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 11A-11A in FIG. 11 of an embodiment of a bottom closure coupled to a sidewall (only a portion of which is illustrated in FIG. 11A).

FIG. 11B is a detail view of the area 11B shown in FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a drum.

FIG. 13 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a drum.

FIG. 13A is a detail view of the area 13A in FIG. 13.

FIG. 13B is a detail view of the area 13B in FIG. 13.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a chime.

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of the bottom of an embodiment of a chime.

FIG. 14B is a perspective view of an embodiment of a chime with portions of the outer and inner walls shown transparently to illustrate features of the outer and inner walls.

FIG. 14C is a detail view of the area 14C illustrated in FIG. 14B.

FIG. 14D is a detail view of the area 14D illustrated in FIG. 14B.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a chime coupled to a sidewall (only a portion of which is illustrated in FIG. 15).

FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 15A-15A in FIG. 15 of an embodiment of a chime coupled to a sidewall.

FIG. 15B is a detail view of the area 15B shown in FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a top closure.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a bottom closure.

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a bottom closure with portions of the outer and inner walls shown transparently to illustrate features of the outer and inner walls.

FIG. 17B is a detail view of the area 17B illustrated in FIG. 17A.

FIG. 17C is a detail view of the area 17C illustrated in FIG. 17A.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a bottom closure coupled to a sidewall (only a portion of which is illustrated in FIG. 18).

FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 18A-18A in FIG. 18 of an embodiment of a bottom closure coupled to a sidewall.

FIG. 18B is a detail view of the area 18B illustrated in FIG. 18A.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a drum.

FIG. 20 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a drum.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a chime.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view of the bottom of an embodiment of a chime.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a chime coupled to a sidewall (only a portion of which is illustrated in FIG. 22).

FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 22A-22A in FIG. 22 of an embodiment of a chime coupled to a sidewall (only a portion of which is illustrated in FIG. 22A).

FIG. 22B is a detail view of the area 22B illustrated in FIG. 22A.

FIG. 23 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a top closure.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a bottom closure.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a bottom closure coupled to a sidewall (only a portion of which is illustrated in FIG. 25).

FIG. 25A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 25A-25A in FIG. 25 of an embodiment of a bottom closure coupled to a sidewall.

FIG. 25B is a detail view of the area 25B illustrated in FIG. 25A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

Referring generally to the figures, embodiments of containers, illustrated as drums or barrels, e.g., for shipping and/or storage, etc., are provided. The structures of embodiments of fiber-wall drums disclosed herein are configured to permit relatively large drum capacities. In one embodiment, the structure also provides for at least one end closure which has an engagement ring (i.e., chime) which is engaged by a lid to close the respective end of the drum.

Embodiments of drums may include a sidewall formed from a first material and a closure formed from a second material. In one embodiment, a drum may include a cylindrical sidewall, a bottom closure sealing one end of the sidewall, and a chime coupled to the other end of the sidewall. The chime may provide access to the interior of the drum through the open end of the sidewall opposite the bottom closure. The drum may be filled with a material to be shipped and/or stored. A top closure may be provided. Upon filling the drum, the closure may be applied to the drum to seal the open end of the sidewall.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 of the drawings, a container in the form of a shipping and storage drum 10 includes a fibrous tubular sidewall 12, such as fiberboard. The sidewall 12 defines a right cylinder defining a peripherally closed space 14 and having an upper end 16 and a lower end 18. The sidewall 12 is formed by rolling paper layers around a forming tube with an adhesive between layers to bond the layers.

The space 14 is closed at a lower end by a bottom closure or base 20 fixedly secured to the sidewall lower end 18, as described below. The upper end of the space 14 is selectively closed by a second closure comprising a cover 22 removably secured to a chime 24. The chime 24 is fixedly secured to the sidewall upper end 16, as described below. Particularly, in accordance with the invention, the connection of the sidewall 12 to the base 20 and chime 24 comprises a threaded connection.

Referring particularly to FIG. 2, the chime 24 comprises a connecting ring 26 having a downwardly opening annular channel 28 receiving the tubular sidewall upper end 16. The connecting ring 26 comprises an inner wall 30 spaced from an outer wall 32 facing one another in the channel 28. A flange 34 extends outwardly from a top end of the outer wall 32. An annular ring 36 extends upwardly above the channel 28. The annular ring 36 includes a threaded outer wall 38 for threadably receiving the cover 22 in a conventional manner. A plurality of support ribs 40 are spaced about the circumference of the outer wall 32 below the flange 34.

Although the chime 24 is illustrated including a threaded connection with the cover 22, the interconnection could be a self-locking cover or use a locking band, as will be apparent.

In accordance with the invention, the connecting ring inner wall 30 includes an inner thread 42 disposed in the channel 28 facing the outer wall 32. Similarly, the outer wall 32 includes an outer thread 44 extending into the annular channel 28 facing the inner wall 30. The threads 42 and 44 are triangular in configuration to comprise a sharp thread. Each thread 42 and 44 extends about two revolutions of the annular channel 28 with the threads 42 and 44 being offset about 180° so that the threads of the inner thread 42 fall midway between threads of the outer thread 44, and vice versa, as is apparent.

The chime 24 is secured to the sidewall 12 by threading the sidewall 12 into the threaded annular channel 28. The threads 42 and 44 dig into the fiberboard sidewall 12 at the upper end 16. In the drawings, the channel 28 includes a draft for molding. However, the draft is somewhat exaggerated in the drawings.

A sealant of silicone or the like can be used to fill the channel 28, before or after threading, to create a water tight seal between the sidewall 12 and the chime 24.

Referring to FIG. 3, the base 20 comprises a circular center wall 50 connected at a peripheral edge to a connecting ring 52 having an upwardly opening annular channel 54. The connecting ring 52 comprises an inner wall 56 and an outer wall 58. The inner wall 56 includes an inner thread 60 in the annular channel 54 facing the outer wall 58. The outer wall 58 includes an outer thread 62 in the annular channel 54 facing the inner wall 56. The threads 60 and 62 are triangular in cross-section to comprise a sharp thread. The threads 60 and 62 are continuous and extend about two revolutions of the base 20 and are offset from one another, as with the threads of the chime 24, discussed above. The tubular sidewall lower end 18 is threaded into the annular channel 54 to close the lower end of the sidewall 18. As recited previously, a sealant could be used in the annular channel 54 before or after threading the sidewall 12 to the base 20.

In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the drum 10 comprises a shipping and storage drum with the sidewall 12 having a diameter in the range of about 12 to 30 inches. The base 20 and chime 24 are molded of a synthetic resin, such as high density polyethylene.

Thus, in accordance with the invention, a drum 10 is provided consisting of two component elements, namely plastic and fiber. After the drum 10 has completed its useful life, the plastic and fiber parts can be separated and recycled, as necessary.

The drum provides positive securement of the chime 24 and base 20 to the sidewall 12 without having to mold the same directly thereon. Moreover, the securement is accomplished with a simple threading operation which is optionally supplemented with a sealant.

With reference to FIGS. 4-24A generally, embodiments of containers, illustrated as drums or barrels, e.g., for shipping and/or storage, etc., are provided. In some embodiments, the structures of the fiber-wall drums disclosed herein are configured to permit relatively large drum capacities. The structure also provides for at least one end closure and an engagement ring (e.g., chime) which is engaged by a lid to close an end of the drum.

Embodiments of drums include sidewalls formed from a first material and closures formed from a second material. In one embodiment, a drum includes a cylindrical sidewall, a bottom closure sealing one end of the sidewall, and a chime coupled to the other end of the sidewall. The chime may provide access to the interior of the drum through the open end of the sidewall opposite the bottom closure. The drum may be filled with a material to be shipped and/or stored. A top closure may be provided. Upon filling the drum, the closure may be applied to the drum to seal the open end of the sidewall.

FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of a container, illustrated in FIG. 4 as a drum 100. The drum 100 includes a cylindrical sidewall 102. In one embodiment, the sidewall is formed of fibrous material such as, for example, fiberboard.

With reference to FIG. 5, the drum 100 is illustrated in an exploded configuration. In one embodiment, the drum 100 includes a chime 104, a top closure 106, and a bottom closure 108 (as will be described further below, features of the chime 104 and bottom closure 108 located in the channels of each are shown in dashed lines). The sidewall 102 extends from a first end 110 to a second end 112. The bottom closure 108 is configured to be coupled to the second end 112 of the sidewall 102, closing the second end 112 of the sidewall 102. The chime 104 is configured to be coupled to the first end 110 of the sidewall 102. When the chime 104 is coupled to the first end 110 of the sidewall 102, the first end 110 of the sidewall 102 remains open and material to be placed within the drum 100 may enter through the first end 110 of the sidewall 102. As will be further described below, the top closure 106 is configured to interact with the chime 104 to couple the top closure 106 to the chime 104, thereby closing the first end 110 of the sidewall 102.

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a chime 104. In one embodiment, the chime 104 is generally annular and defines a central aperture 114 through which material may be placed into the drum 100 when the chime 104 is coupled to the sidewall 102. The chime 104 includes a first portion 116 configured to be coupled to the sidewall 102, a second portion 118 to which the top closure 106 is configured to be coupled, and an radially outwardly extending ledge portion 117 located generally between the first 116 and second 118 portions. The second portion 118 includes discontinuous threading portions 120, spaced apart around the circumference of the second portion 118 of the chime 104.

The discontinuous threading portions 120 include an upper horizontally extending wall portion 122 and a lower horizontally extending wall portion 124 spaced apart from the upper horizontally extending wall portion 122 defining a horizontally extending upper channel 126 therebetween. The upper channel 126 extends from a first open end 128 to a second end 130 that is closed by a vertically extending wall portion 132 extending generally perpendicularly to the wall portions 122 and 124 from the ledge portion 117 to the upper horizontally extending wall portion 122. A horizontally extending lower channel 134 is defined between the lower horizontally extending wall portion 124 and the ledge portion 117. The lower channel 134 extends from a first open end 136 to a second end 138 closed by the vertically extending wall portion 132.

In one embodiment, the chime 104 includes eight discontinuous threading portions 120 spaced apart equally around the circumference of the chime 104. In other embodiments, the chime 104 may include other suitable numbers of discontinuous threading portions 120 spaced equally or unequally around its circumference. In one embodiment, the portions of the radially outer surface between the discontinuous threading portions are generally smooth and continuous.

FIG. 6A illustrates a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the chime 104. The first portion 116 of the chime 104 includes concentric inner 140 and outer 142 walls spaced apart and defining between them a channel 144 configured to receive the first end 110 of the sidewall 102 (not illustrated in FIG. 6A).

With reference to FIGS. 6-6C, projecting radially outwardly and into the channel 144 from the outer surface 146 of the inner wall 140 are upper discontinuous threading portions 148. The upper discontinuous threading portions 148 are spaced apart around the circumference of the inner wall 140 (shown in dashed lines in FIGS. 6 and 6A). In the illustrated embodiment, ten upper discontinuous threading portions 148 are illustrated. In other embodiments, other suitable numbers of upper discontinuous threading portions may be provided, spaced evenly or unevenly around the circumference of the inner wall 140. The upper discontinuous threading portions 148 each include a leg portion 150. The leg portion 150 extends angularly upwardly from locations proximate the entry of the channel 144 toward the second portion 118 of the chime 104 in a radially counterclockwise direction.

As is illustrated in FIGS. 6D and 6E, the leg portion 150 extends from a first end 151 to a rotation stopping feature illustrated as an end portion 135. In one embodiment, the leg portion 150 includes an angular leading edge portion 153 proximate the first end 151. In one embodiment, the angular leading edge portion 153 may be tapered to a minimum extension length in a direction radially into the channel 144 proximate the first end 151 which may allow for easy engagement of the leg portion 150 with the sidewall 102 as will be explained further below.

In one embodiment, the end portion 135 includes a rotation stopping face 154 adjacent the leg portion 150. The rotation stopping face 154 includes upper 159 and lower 161 surfaces extending above and below the leg portion 150 proximate the end portion 135 respectively. The end portion 135 extends both upwardly and downwardly above and below the portions of the leg portions 150 and 152 proximate the end portion 135 (e.g., the end portion 135 extends axially farther than the leg portion 150 proximate the end portion 135).

In one embodiment, the end portion 135 is configured to deter the chime 104 and the discontinuous threading portions 148 from backing off (e.g., unthreading from, disengaging by rotation, etc.) from the sidewall 102 after being engaged with the sidewall 102 (as will be further described below), and therefore may tend to keep the chime 104 coupled to the sidewall 102. In one embodiment, the end portion 135 deters additional rotation of the chime 104 about its longitudinal axis relative to the sidewall 102 once the chime 104 has been coupled to a sidewall 102 such that generally all of the leg portion 150 and/or has been engaged with the sidewall 102.

In one embodiment, the leg portion 150 is generally triangularly shaped when viewed in radial cross-section, with the leg portion 150 extending generally radially outwardly to a point distal from the outer surface 146 of the inner wall 140. In one embodiment, the leg portion 150 extends radially outwardly past the radial midpoint of the channel 144 (e.g., past the half-way point between the inner wall 140 and the outer wall 142) toward the outer wall 142. In another embodiment, the leg portion 150 extends radially outwardly to the midpoint of the channel 144. In another embodiment, the leg portion 150 extends radially outwardly, but terminates short of the midpoint of the channel 144. In one embodiment, the portions of the outer surface 146 of the inner wall 140 between the discontinuous threading portions 148 are generally smooth and/or continuous.

With further reference to FIGS. 6-6C, projecting radially inwardly and into the channel 144 from the inner surface 158 of the outer wall 142 are lower discontinuous threading portions 160. The lower discontinuous threading portions 160 are spaced apart around the inner surface 158 of the outer wall 142. In the illustrated embodiment, ten lower discontinuous threading portions 160 are illustrated (illustrated in dashed lines in FIGS. 6 and 6A). In other embodiments, other suitable numbers of lower discontinuous threading portions 160 may be provided, spaced evenly or unevenly around the circumference of the inner surface 158 of the outer wall 142. The lower discontinuous threading portions 160 each include a leg portion 162 extending angularly upwardly from a location proximate the opening of the channel 144 toward the second portion 118 of the chime 104 in a radially counterclockwise direction.

With reference to FIGS. 6D and 6F, the leg portion 162 extends from a first end 163 angularly upwardly and in a radially counterclockwise direction to a rotation stopping feature illustrated as an end portion 137. The end portion 137 includes a rotation stopping face 166 proximate the leg portion 162. In one embodiment, the leg portion 162 includes an angular leading edge portion 165 proximate the first end 163.

In one embodiment, the angular leading edge portion 165 may be tapered to a minimum extension length in a direction radially into the channel 144 proximate the first end 163 which may allow for easy engagement of the leg portion 162 with the sidewall 102, as will be explained further below.

In one embodiment, the rotation stopping face 166 of the end portion 137 includes upper 171 and lower 173 stopping surfaces extending above and below the leg portion 162 proximate the end portion 137 respectively. In one embodiment, the rotation stopping face 166 extends both upwardly and downwardly above and below the portion of the leg portion 162 proximate the end portion 166 (e.g., in one embodiment, the rotation stopping face 166 extends axially farther than the portion of the leg portion 162 proximate the rotation stopping face 166).

In one embodiment, the stopping surfaces 171 and 173 extend above and below the portion of the leg portion 162 proximate the end portion 137. In one embodiment, the end portion 137 deters the chime 104 and the discontinuous threading portions 160 from backing off (e.g., unthreading from, disengaging by rotation, etc.) from the sidewall 102 after being engaged with the sidewall 102, and therefore may tend to keep the chime 104 coupled to the sidewall. In one embodiment, the end portion 137 deters additional rotation of the chime 104 about its longitudinal axis relative to a sidewall 102 once the chime 104 has been coupled to a sidewall 102 such that generally all of the leg portion 162 has been engaged with the sidewall 102.

In one embodiment, the leg portion 162 is generally triangularly shaped when viewed in radial cross-section, with the leg portion 162 extending generally radially inwardly into the channel to a point distal from the inner surface 158 of the outer wall 142. In one embodiment, the leg portion 162 extends radially inwardly past the midpoint of the channel 144 (e.g., past the half-way point between the inner wall 140 and the outer wall 142) toward the inner wall 140. In another embodiment, the leg portion 162 extends radially inwardly to the midpoint of the channel 144. In another embodiment, the leg portion 162 extends radially inwardly but terminates short of the midpoint of the channel 144. In one embodiment, the portions of the inner surface 158 of the outer wall 142 between the discontinuous threading portions 160 are generally smooth and/or continuous.

As is illustrated in FIGS. 6-6C, in one embodiment, the upper and lower discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 are vertically offset, e.g., not directly across from one another, one being located higher on its respective wall than the other. In one embodiment, this may allow a chime to be engaged with a sidewall without the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 cutting (e.g., cutting completely through) the sidewall. In one embodiment, the upper and lower discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 are radially offset from one another. In another embodiment, the upper and lower discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 are radially aligned with one another.

With reference to FIGS. 7-7B, in one embodiment, the chime 104 may be coupled to the sidewall 102 by locating the first end 110 of the sidewall 102 in the channel 144. The chime 104 may be rotated clockwise relative to the sidewall 102 such that the threading portions 148 and 160 engage the inner and outer surfaces of the sidewall 102. In one embodiment, the threading portions 148 and 160 deform the inner and outer surfaces of the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the threading portions 148 and 160 puncture the inner and outer surfaces of the sidewall 102. In one embodiment, the threading portions 148 and 160 do not pass completely through the sidewall 102. The threading portions 148 and 160 interact with the sidewall 102 to retain the sidewall 102 in the channel 144 and to retain the chime 104 on the sidewall 102.

Additionally, in one embodiment, the configuration of the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 is such that the chime 104 and sidewall 102 may be rotatively displaced relative to one another (e.g., the chime 104 may be rotated relative to the sidewall 102, the sidewall 102 may be rotated relative to the chime 104, or the sidewall 102 and the chime 104 may both be rotated relative to one another) less than approximately 360° to engage the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 with the sidewall 102 and couple the chime 104 to the sidewall 102. Additionally, in one embodiment, force may be applied to the chime 104 and/or the sidewall 102 in a direction toward one another as the sidewall 102 and the chime 104 are rotatively displaced relative to one another to couple the chime 104 to the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the configuration of the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 is such that the chime 104 and the sidewall 102 may be rotatively displaced less than approximately 180° relative to one another to engage the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 with the sidewall and couple the chime 104 to the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the configuration of the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 is such that the chime 104 and the sidewall 102 may be rotatively displaced less than approximately 90° relative to one another to engage the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 with the sidewall and couple the chime 104 to the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the configuration of the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 is such that the chime 104 and the sidewall 102 may be rotatively displaced approximately 30° relative to one another to engage the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 with the sidewall and couple the chime 104 to the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the configuration of the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 is such that the chime 104 and the sidewall 102 may be rotatively displaced approximately 15° relative to one another to engage the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 with the sidewall and couple the chime 104 to the sidewall 102.

In one embodiment, once the discontinuous threading portions 148 and 160 are engaged with the sidewall 102, the end portions 135 and 137 deter rotation of the chime 104 and sidewall 102 relative to one another in a counterclockwise direction.

In one embodiment, adhesive may be applied to at least one of the outer and inner surfaces of a portion of the sidewall 102 proximate the first end 110 prior to engaging the threading portions 148 and 160 with the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied in the channel 144 prior to engaging the threading portions 148 and 160 with the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied both to the sidewall 102 and to the channel 134 prior to engaging the threading portions 148 and 160 with the sidewall 102. In various embodiments, adhesive may provide further coupling of the chime 104 to the sidewall 102.

With further reference to FIGS. 7-7B, in one embodiment, the portion 118 of the chime 104 to which the top closure 106 is configured to be coupled includes an upwardly extending wall 168 extending from a lower end 170 to an upper end 172. The discontinuous threading portions 120 are defined on the radially outer surface of the wall 168. Flange 117 projects radially outwardly from the wall 168 proximate its lower end 170.

In one embodiment, extending from the intersection of the flange 117 and the wall 168 is a generally C-shaped connecting portion 174, projecting concave radially inwardly. The connecting portion 174 extends from the lower end 170 of the wall 168 to the portion 116 configured to be coupled to the sidewall 102. The connecting portion 174, the flange 117, and the portion 116 configured to be coupled to the sidewall 102 together define a channel 176.

In one embodiment, with the chime 104 coupled to the sidewall 102, the drum 100 may be filled with material, e.g., material to be stored and/or transported, etc. Subsequently, the top closure 106 may be coupled to the chime 104 to seal the drum 100. In one embodiment, machinery including mechanical fingers may be used to lift and locate the drum 100, e.g., the mechanical fingers may be placed into the channel 176 and upwardly directed force may be applied to the chime 104, e.g., applied to the underside of the flange 117, etc., to lift and maneuver the drum 100 and its contents.

With reference to FIGS. 8 and 8A, an embodiment of the top closure 106 is illustrated. The top closure 106 includes a central, generally disc-shaped portion 178. With reference to FIG. 9B, in one embodiment, proximate the radial periphery of the disc-shaped portion 178, the top closure 106 includes a downwardly extending rib 180. In one embodiment, the rib 180 may act as a stiffening rib to stiffen and provide support for the top closure 106 against radially and/or axially directed forces.

With reference to FIG. 9B, in one embodiment, the top closure 106 also includes an upwardly extending wall portion 182 extending from the disc-shaped portion 178 proximate its radial periphery. The top closure 106 also includes a radially outwardly projecting portion 184 extending from the wall portion 182 distal from the disc-shaped portion 178. The top closure 106 also includes a downwardly projecting wall portion 186 extending downwardly from the radially outwardly projecting portion 184 distal from the wall portion 182.

With reference to FIGS. 8A and 9B, in one embodiment, the interior surface 188 of the wall portion 186 includes discontinuous threading portions 190 spaced apart around the circumference of the interior surface 188 of the wall portion 186. In the illustrated embodiment, eight discontinuous threading portions 190 spaced apart evenly around the interior surface 188 of the wall portion 186 are provided. In other embodiments, other suitable numbers of discontinuous threading portions 190 may be spaced apart evenly or unevenly around the interior surface 188 of the wall portion 186.

In one embodiment, between the discontinuous threading portions 190, the interior surface 188 of the wall portion 186 includes generally smooth and/or continuous portions.

With further reference to FIGS. 8A and 9B, the discontinuous threading portions 190 are configured to mate with the discontinuous threading portions 120 of the chime 104 to couple the top closure 106 to the chime 104. The discontinuous threading portions 190 include an upper horizontally extending wall portion 192 and a lower horizontally extending wall portion 194 spaced apart from the wall portion 192. To couple the top closure 106 to the chime 104, the threading portions 190 are located between the threading portions 120 of the chime 104 and the top closure 106 is rotated relative to the chime to place the upper discontinuous threading portions 192 in the upper channel 126 and the lower discontinuous threading portions 194 in the lower channel 134 until the upper and lower threading portions 192 and 194 contact the vertical wall 132 of the threading portions 120 of the chime 104.

In one embodiment, the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 are configured such that the top closure 106 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the sidewall 102 less than approximately 360 degrees to fully engage the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 to secure the top closure 106 to the chime 104. In another embodiment, the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 are configured such that the top closure 106 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the sidewall 102 less than approximately 180 degrees to fully engage the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 to secure the top closure 106 to the chime 104.

In another embodiment, the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 are configured such that the top closure 106 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the sidewall 102 less than approximately 90 degrees to fully engage the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 to secure the top closure 106 to the chime 104. In another embodiment, the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 are configured such that the top closure 106 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the sidewall 102 less than approximately 30 degrees to fully engage the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 to secure the top closure 106 to the chime 104.

Additionally, in one embodiment, the chime 104 and the top closure 106 may be formed by molding. In one embodiment, the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 are configured such that the chime 104 and the top closure 106 may be rotated relative to the respective molds less than 360 degrees to remove the chime 104 and the top closure 106 from the molds. In one embodiment, the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 are configured such that the chime 104 and the top closure 106 may be rotated relative to the respective molds less than 180 degrees to remove the chime 104 and the top closure 106 from the molds. In one embodiment, the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 are configured such that the chime 104 and the top closure 106 may be rotated relative to the respective molds less than 90 degrees to remove the chime 104 and the top closure 106 from the molds. In one embodiment, the discontinuous threading portions 120 and 190 are configured such that the chime 104 and the top closure 106 may be rotated relative to the respective molds less than 30 degrees to remove the chime 104 and the top closure 106 from the molds.

An embodiment of a bottom closure 108 is illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 10A. The bottom closure 108 includes a central generally disc-shaped portion 196, an inner wall 198 extending upwardly from the disc-shaped portion 196 proximate its radial periphery, and an outer wall 200 spaced apart from and extending generally parallel to the inner wall 198. The inner and outer walls 198 and 200 define a channel 202 between them.

With reference to FIGS. 10-11B, the inner wall 198 includes an outer surface 204 proximate the channel 202. The inner wall 198 includes a plurality of lower discontinuous threading portions 206 spaced apart around the circumference of the outer surface 204 of the inner wall 198. In the illustrated embodiment, ten lower discontinuous threading portions 206 generally evenly spaced around the circumference of the outer surface 204 of the inner wall 198 are provided. In other embodiments, other suitable numbers of lower discontinuous threading portions spaced evenly or unevenly around the circumference of the outer surface of the inner wall may be provided. In one embodiment, portions of the outer surface 204 of the inner wall 198 between the discontinuous threading portions 206 are generally smooth and/or continuous.

In one embodiment, the lower discontinuous threading portions 206 each include a leg portion 208. The leg portion 208 extends from a first end 209 to a second end 211 proximate a rotation stopping feature illustrated as the end portion 201. The end portion 201 includes a stopping face 212 proximate the leg portion 208. In one embodiment, the leg portion 208 includes an angular leading edge portion 213 proximate the first end 215. In one embodiment, the angular leading edge portion 213 may be tapered (e.g., decrease in extension length into the channel in the direction from the second end 211 toward the first end 209) from a maximum extension length in a direction radially into the channel 202 to a minimum proximate the first end 209 which may allow for easy engagement of the leg portion 208 with the sidewall 102, as will be explained further below.

In one embodiment, the stopping face 212 includes upper 219 and lower 221 surfaces extending above and below the leg portion 208 proximate the end portion 201 respectively. The end portion 201 extends both upwardly and downwardly above and below the portions of the leg portion 208 proximate the end portion 201. In one embodiment, the end portion 201 deters the bottom closure 108 and the discontinuous threading portions 206 from backing off (e.g., unthreading from, disengaging by rotation, etc.) from the sidewall 102 after being engaged with the sidewall 102, and therefore may tend to keep the bottom closure 108 coupled to the sidewall 102. In one embodiment, the end portion 201 deters additional rotation of the bottom closure 108 about its longitudinal axis relative to the sidewall 102 once the bottom closure 108 has been coupled to the sidewall 102 such that generally all of the leg portion 208 has been engaged with the sidewall 102.

In one embodiment, the leg portion 208 is generally triangularly shaped when viewed in radial cross-section, with the leg portion 208 extending generally to locations distal from the outer surface 204 of the inner wall 198. In one embodiment, the leg portion 208 extends radially outwardly past the midpoint of the channel 202 (e.g., half way between the inner wall 198 and the outer wall 200) toward the outer wall 200. In another embodiment, the leg portion 208 extends radially outwardly to the midpoint of the channel 202. In another embodiment, the leg portion 208 extends radially outwardly but terminates short of the midpoint of the channel 202.

With further reference to FIGS. 10-11B, the outer wall 200 includes an inner surface 214 proximate the channel 202. The outer wall 200 includes a plurality of upper discontinuous threading portions 216 spaced apart around the inner surface 214 of the outer wall 200. In the illustrated embodiment, ten upper discontinuous threading portions 216 generally evenly spaced around the inner surface 214 of the outer wall 200 are provided. In other embodiments, other suitable numbers of upper discontinuous threading portions spaced evenly or unevenly around the circumference of the outer surface of the inner wall may be provided. In one embodiment, the portions of the inner surface 214 of the outer wall 200 between the discontinuous threading portions 216 are generally smooth and/or continuous.

In one embodiment, the upper discontinuous threading portions 216 each include a leg portion 218. The leg portion 218 extends from a first end 223 angularly downwardly in a radially clockwise direction to a second end 225 proximate a rotation stopping feature, illustrated as the end portion 203. The end portion 203 includes a stopping face 222 proximate the leg portion 218. In one embodiment, the leg portion 218 includes an angular leading edge portion 227 proximate the first end 223.

In one embodiment, the angular leading edge portion 227 may be tapered (e.g., decrease in extension length into the channel 202 in the direction from the second end 225 toward the first end 223) from a maximum extension length in a direction radially into the channel 202 to a minimum proximate the first end 223 which may allow for easy engagement of the leg portion 218 with the sidewall 102, as will be explained further below.

In one embodiment, the stopping face 222 includes upper 235 and lower 237 stopping surfaces extending above and below the leg portion 218 proximate the end portion 203 respectively. The stopping face 222 extends from the inner surface 214 both upwardly and downwardly above and below the portions of the leg portion 218 proximate the end portion 203.

In one embodiment, the end portion 203 deters the bottom closure 108 and the discontinuous threading portions 216 from backing off (e.g., unthreading from, disengaging by rotation, etc.) from the sidewall 102 after the threading portions 216 are engaged with the sidewall 102, and therefore may tend to keep the bottom closure 108 coupled to the sidewall 102. In one embodiment, the end portion 203 deters additional rotation of the bottom closure 108 about its longitudinal axis relative to the sidewall 102 once the bottom closure 108 has been coupled to the sidewall 102 such that generally all of the leg portion 218 has been engaged with the sidewall 102.

In one embodiment, the leg portion 218 is generally triangularly shaped when viewed in radial cross-section, with the leg portion 218 extending generally radially into the channel 202 to locations distal from the inner surface 214 of the outer wall 200. In one embodiment, the leg portion 218 extends radially inwardly past the midpoint of the channel 202 (e.g., half way between the inner wall 198 and the outer wall 200) toward the inner wall 198. In another embodiment, the leg portion 218 extends radially inwardly to the midpoint of the channel 202. In another embodiment, the leg portion 218 extends radially inwardly but terminate short of the midpoint of the channel 202. In one embodiment, the portions of the inner surface 214 of the outer wall 200 between the discontinuous threading portions 216 are generally smooth and/or continuous.

In one embodiment, the upper and lower discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 are vertically offset, e.g., not directly across from one another, one being located higher on its respective wall than the other. In one embodiment, this may allow a chime to be engaged with a sidewall without the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 cutting the sidewall, e.g., cutting completely through the sidewall 102. In one embodiment, the upper and lower discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 are radially offset from one another. In another embodiment the upper and lower discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 proximate one another are radially aligned with one another.

While in the illustrated embodiment, the upper discontinuous threading portions 216 are illustrated projecting from the inner surface 214 of the outer wall 200 and the lower discontinuous threading portions 206 are illustrated projecting from the outer surface 204 of the inner wall 198, in other embodiments this may be reversed with upper discontinuous threading portions projecting from the outer surface of the inner wall and the lower discontinuous threading portions projecting from the inner surface of the outer wall. In other embodiments, the discontinuous threading portions projecting from the outer surface 204 of the outer and inner walls 200 and 198 may be vertically aligned, e.g., generally directly across from one another.

With reference to FIGS. 11-11B, in one embodiment, in an assembled configuration, the second end 112 of the sidewall 102 is located within the channel 202. In one embodiment, the bottom closure 108 may be coupled to the sidewall 102 by locating the second end of the sidewall 102 in the channel 202 and rotating the bottom closure 108 relative to the sidewall 102 about the longitudinal axis of the sidewall 102 such that the threading portions 206 and 216 engage the inner and outer surfaces of the sidewall 102 (e.g., the leading edges 219 and 233 first engage the sidewall 102 followed by the remainder of the leg portions 208 and 218).

For example, in one embodiment, when the bottom closure 108 is rotated relative to the sidewall 102, the leg portions 208 and 218 engage, e.g., deform, cut or otherwise engage with the inner and outer surfaces of the sidewall 102. In one embodiment, the threading portions 206 and 216 deform the inner and outer surfaces of the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the threading portions 206 and 216 puncture the inner and outer surfaces of the sidewall 102. In one embodiment, the threading portions 206 and 216 do not pass completely through the sidewall 102. The threading portions 206 and 216 interact with the sidewall 102 to retain the sidewall 102 in the channel 202 and to retain the bottom closure 108 on the sidewall 102.

In one embodiment, the bottom closure 108 may be rotated relative to the sidewall 102 until further rotation is prevented by the end portions 201 and 203. In one embodiment, the bottom closure 108 may be rotated relative to the sidewall 102 to couple the bottom closure 108 to the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the sidewall 102 may be rotated relative to the bottom closure 108 to couple the bottom closure 108 to the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the sidewall 102 and bottom closure 108 may be rotated relative to one another to couple the bottom closure 108 to the sidewall 102. In one embodiment, as relative rotation is being imparted (e.g., rotating the bottom closure 108, rotating the sidewall 102, or rotating the sidewall 102, and the bottom closure 108), force may be provided on the bottom closure 108, the sidewall 102 or both the bottom closure 108 and the sidewall 102 urging the sidewall 102 into the channel 202.

In one embodiment, the configuration of the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 is such that the bottom closure 108 and the sidewall 102 may be rotatively displaced less than approximately 360° relative to one another to engage the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 with the sidewall 102 and couple the bottom closure 108 to the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the configuration of the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 is such that the bottom closure 108 and the sidewall 102 may be rotatively displaced less than approximately 180° relative to one another to engage the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 with the sidewall 102 and couple the bottom closure 108 to the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the configuration of the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 is such that the bottom closure 108 and the sidewall 102 may be rotatively displaced less than approximately 90° relative to one another to engage the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 with the sidewall 102 and couple the bottom closure 108 to the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the configuration of the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 is such that the bottom closure 108 and the sidewall 102 may be rotatively displaced approximately 30° relative to one another to engage the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 with the sidewall 102 and couple the bottom closure 108 to the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, the configuration of the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 is such that the bottom closure 108 and the sidewall 102 may be rotatively displaced approximately 15° relative to one another to engage the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 with the sidewall 102 and couple the bottom closure 108 to the sidewall 102.

In one embodiment, once the discontinuous threading portions 206 and 216 are engaged with the sidewall 102, the end portions 201 and 203 deter rotation of the bottom closure 108 and sidewall 102 relative to one another.

In one embodiment, adhesive may be applied to at least one of the outer and inner surfaces of a portion of the sidewall 102 proximate the second end 112 prior to engaging the threading portions 206 and 216 with the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied in the channel 202 prior to engaging the threading portions 206 and 216 with the sidewall 102. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied both to the sidewall 102 and to the channel 202 prior to engaging the threading portions 206 and 216 with the sidewall 102. In various embodiments, adhesive may provide further coupling of the bottom closure 108 to the sidewall 102.

With reference to FIG. 11A, the central portion 196 of the bottom closure 108 includes a raised central portion 224. Extending from the raised central portion 224 proximate its radial periphery is a downwardly angled portion 226. The downwardly angled portion 226 extends between the raised central portion 224 and an outer portion 228. The outer portion 228 extends radially outwardly from the angled portion 226 to an outer upwardly extending portion 230. The outer upwardly extending portion 230 extends upwardly and radially outwardly from the outer portion 228 to the inner wall 198. Extending angularly downwardly and radially outwardly from the outer and inner walls 198 and 200 is a downwardly projecting flange 232. The flange 232 and the outer upwardly extending portion 230 define a channel 234. In one embodiment, the downwardly projecting flange 232 terminates at a location vertically higher than the lower axial periphery of the outer portion 228. The flange 232 is configured such that the channel 234 may be accessed, for example, by a moving apparatus, a user's hand, etc., underneath the axial peripheral end 236 (see FIG. 11B) of the flange 232 while the bottom closure 208 is located on a flat surface without lifting the bottom closure 108.

With reference to FIG. 12, another embodiment of a container, illustrated as a drum 300, is provided. In one embodiment, the drum 300 includes a fibrous cylindrical sidewall 302. In one embodiment, drum 300 is similar in many respects and includes many similar features to the embodiment of drum 100 described above. Therefore, the embodiment of drum 300 is described with reference generally to differences of drum 300.

With reference to FIG. 13, in one embodiment, a cylindrical sidewall 302, an engagement ring, illustrated as a chime 304, a top closure 306, and a bottom closure 308 are provided. The cylindrical sidewall 302 extends along a longitudinal axis from a first end 310 to a second end 312. The sidewall 302 includes a plurality of upper first, elongated 314 and second 316 pairs of apertures defined in the sidewall 102 spaced apart in alternating fashion around the circumference of the sidewall 302 proximate the first end 310. The first and second pairs of apertures 314 and 316 extend from locations (e.g., in one embodiment, locations axially offset from one another) proximate the first end 310 of the sidewall 302 downwardly generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the sidewall 302. In one embodiment, the first, elongated pairs of apertures 314 are longer in a direction, generally parallel with the longitudinal axis than the second pairs of apertures 316. In another embodiment, the apertures 314 and 316 extend approximately the same distance in a direction generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the sidewall 302.

With reference to FIG. 13A, in one embodiment, each of the apertures of the first, elongated pairs of apertures 314 is bounded on one end by an upper engagement surface 318. Additionally each of the apertures of the second pairs of apertures 316 is bounded on one end by an engagement surface 320.

With further reference to FIG. 13, in one embodiment, the cylindrical sidewall 302 also includes a plurality of lower first 322 and second, elongated 324 pairs of apertures defined in the sidewall 302 and spaced apart in alternating fashion around the circumference of the sidewall 302 proximate the second end 312. The lower first and second apertures 322 and 324 extend from locations (e.g., in one embodiment, locations axially offset from one another) proximate the second end 312 of the sidewall 302 upwardly generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the sidewall 302. In one embodiment, the second, elongated pairs of apertures 324 are larger in a direction generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the sidewall 102, than the first pairs of apertures 322

With reference to FIG. 13B, in one embodiment, each of the apertures of the lower first pairs of apertures 322 is bounded on one side by a lower engagement surface 326. Additionally, each of the apertures of the second, elongated pairs of apertures 324 is bounded on one side by a lower engagement surface 328.

With reference to FIGS. 14 and 14A, another embodiment of a chime 304 is illustrated. The chime 304 includes inner 330 and outer 332 walls defining a channel 334 between them. The channel 334 is configured to receive the first end 310 of the sidewall 302 therein.

FIG. 14B illustrates the embodiment of FIGS. 14 and 14A with portions of the inner 330 and outer 332 walls shown transparently (the borders of the portions shown transparently indicated with dashed lines) for clarity. The inner wall 330 includes an outer surface 336 proximate the channel 334. Extending from the outer surface 336 of the inner wall 330 are a plurality of projections, illustrated as first, elongated teeth 338 and second teeth 340. In one embodiment, the first, elongated teeth 338 and the second teeth 336 each extend from locations proximate the lower axial peripheral edge of the outer surface 336 of the inner wall 330 upwardly. In one embodiment, the first, elongated teeth 338 extend farther vertically, e.g., in a direction of the longitudinal axis L, than the second teeth 340. In other embodiments, the teeth 338 and 340 extend the same distance vertically, e.g., in a direction of the longitudinal axis L. The first 338 and second 340 teeth are spaced apart in an alternating configuration around the circumference of the inner wall 330.

With reference to FIG. 14C, in one embodiment, the first teeth 338 each include a first engagement surface 342 extending generally perpendicularly away from the inner surface 346 the outer surface 336 into the channel 334. In one embodiment, the distance that the first teeth 338 extend into the channel 334 is greatest at the engagement surface 342 and the distance that the first teeth 338 extend into the channel 334 decreases in a downward direction away from the engagement surface 342 to a minimum proximate the bottom axial periphery of the inner wall 330.

In one embodiment, the second teeth 340 also each include a second engagement surface 344 extending generally perpendicularly away from the inner surface 336 and into the channel 334. In one embodiment, the distance that the second teeth 340 extend into the channel 334 is greatest at the second engagement surface 344 and the distance that the second teeth extend 340 into the channel 334 decreases in a downward direction away from the engagement surface to a minimum proximate the bottom axial periphery of the inner wall 330. In one embodiment, the first engagement surface 342 is located axially higher than the second engagement surface 344. In other embodiments, the first and second engagement surfaces 342 and 344 may be located at generally the same axial height.

With further reference to FIG. 14B, as can be seen through the portion of the inner wall 330 shown transparently for clarity, the outer wall 332 includes an inner surface 346 proximate the channel 344. Extending from the inner surface 346 are a plurality of projections, illustrated as a plurality of first, elongated teeth 348 and a plurality of second teeth 350 spaced apart around the inner surface 346 of the outer wall 332 in an alternating configuration. In one embodiment, the first 348 and second 350 teeth extend from a location proximate the axial lower peripheral edge of the outer wall 332 upwardly generally parallel with the longitudinal axis L of the chime 304. In one embodiment, the first, elongated teeth 348 extend farther vertically, in a direction generally parallel with the longitudinal axis L, than the second teeth 350. In other embodiments, the teeth 348 and 350 extend the same distance vertically, generally parallel with the longitudinal axis L.

With reference to FIG. 14D, in one embodiment, the first teeth 348 each include a first engagement surface 352 extending generally perpendicularly away from the inner surface 346, the outer wall 332 into the channel 334. In one embodiment, the distance that the first teeth 348 extend into the channel 334 is greatest at the engagement surface 352 and the distance that the first teeth 348 extend into the channel 334 decreases in a downward direction away from the engagement surface 352 to a minimum proximate the bottom axial periphery of the outer wall 332.

In one embodiment, the second teeth 350 also each include a second engagement surface 354 extending generally perpendicularly away from the inner surface 346 of the outer wall 332 and into the channel 334. In one embodiment, the distance that the second teeth 350 extend into the channel 334 is greatest at the second engagement surface 354 and the distance that the second teeth 350 extend into the channel 334 decreases in a downward direction away from the engagement surface 354 to a minimum proximate the bottom axial periphery of the outer wall 332. In one embodiment, the first engagement surface 352 is located axially higher than the second engagement surface 354. In other embodiments, the first and second engagement surfaces 352 and 354 may be located at generally the same axial height.

With reference to FIGS. 14B and 15, in one embodiment, the first teeth 338 of the inner wall 330 and the first teeth 348 of the outer wall 332 are located proximate one another and the second teeth 340 of the inner wall 330 and the second teeth 350 of the outer wall 332 are located proximate one another. In one embodiment, the teeth of the inner wall 330 and the teeth of the outer wall 332 are radially offset relative to one another. Thus, in one embodiment, in a counterclockwise direction, the chime 304 includes a first tooth 338, a first tooth 348, a second tooth 340, a second tooth 350, a first tooth 338, a first tooth 348, a second tooth 340, a second tooth 350, etc., in a repeating pattern around the chime 304. In other embodiments, other suitable configurations of teeth may be provided.

With reference to FIGS. 14-15B, in one embodiment, to couple the chime 304 to the sidewall 302, the first end 310 of the sidewall 302 is located proximate the entrance of the channel 334. The first end 310 of the sidewall 302 is then moved into the channel 334 (in one embodiment, by applying axially directed force on the chime 304 toward the sidewall 302, in another embodiment, by applying axially directed force on the sidewall 302 toward the chime 304, in another embodiment, by applying both axially directed force on the chime 304 toward the sidewall 302 and axially directed force on the sidewall 302 toward the chime 304, etc.). The first teeth 338 and 348 are located in the apertures 314 (see FIG. 13) of the sidewall 302 and the second teeth 340 and 350 are located in the apertures 316 (see FIG. 13) of the sidewall 302. The first teeth 338 of the inner wall 330 extend into the apertures 314 from the interior side of the sidewall 302, while the first teeth 348 of the outer wall 332 extend into the apertures 314 from the exterior side of the sidewall 302. Similarly, the second teeth 340 of the inner wall 330 extend into the apertures 316 from the interior side of the sidewall 302, while the second teeth 350 of the outer wall 332 extend into the apertures 316 from the exterior side of the sidewall 302.

When the first teeth 338 and 348 are located in the apertures 314 of the sidewall 302, the engagement surfaces 342 and 352 of the first teeth 338 and 348 engage the upper engagement surfaces 318 of the sidewall 302 (upper portions of sidewall 302 defining apertures 314) and prevent upward movement of the chime 304 relative to the sidewall 302, coupling the chime 304 to the sidewall 302. When the second teeth 340 and 350 are located in the apertures 316 of the sidewall 302, the engagement surfaces 344 and 354 of the second teeth 340 and 350 engage the upper engagement surfaces 320 of the sidewall 302 (upper portions of sidewall 302 defining apertures 318) and prevent upward movement of the chime 304 relative to the sidewall 302, coupling the chime 304 to the sidewall 302. Additionally, in one embodiment, rotational displacement between the chime 304 and the sidewall 302 is prevented by interaction of the teeth 338, 348, 340, 350 and the portions of the sidewall 302 defining the apertures 314 and 316.

In one embodiment, adhesive may be applied to at least one of the outer and inner surfaces of a portion of the sidewall 302 proximate the first end 310 prior to locating the sidewall 302 in the channel 334. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied in the channel 334 prior to locating the sidewall 302 in the channel 334. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied both to the sidewall 302 and to the channel 334 prior to locating the sidewall 302 in the channel. In various embodiments, adhesive may provide further coupling of the chime 304 to the sidewall 302.

With reference to FIG. 16, in one embodiment, the drum 300 also includes a top closure 306 similar to the top closure of the previous embodiment.

With reference to FIG. 17, an embodiment of a bottom closure 308 is illustrated. The embodiment of the bottom closure 308 includes various features similar to features of the previous embodiment of a bottom closure. Therefore, the embodiment of the bottom closure 308 is described with reference generally to differences of bottom closure 308.

The bottom closure 308 includes an inner wall 309 and an outer wall 311 defining a channel 313 there between. With reference to FIGS. 17A-17C, in which portions of the inner wall 309 and outer wall 311 are shown transparently (with dashed lines indicating the borders of the transparent portions) for ease of reference and to further illustrate the portions of the inner wall 309 and outer wall 311 defining the channel 313, the inner wall 309 includes an outer surface 315 proximate the channel 313. Extending from the outer surface 315 are a plurality of projections, illustrated as a plurality of first, elongated teeth 317 and second teeth 319. In one embodiment, the first, elongated teeth 317 and the second teeth 319 each extend from locations proximate the upper axial peripheral edge of the outer surface 315 of the inner wall 309 downwardly into the channel 313. In one embodiment, the first, elongated teeth 317 extend farther vertically axially downwardly into the channel 313 than the second teeth 319. In other embodiments, the teeth 317 and 319 extend the same distance vertically axially downwardly into the channel 313. The first and second teeth 317 and 319 are spaced apart in an alternating configuration around the inner wall 309.

With reference to FIG. 17B, in one embodiment, the first teeth 317 each include a first engagement surface 321 extending generally perpendicularly away from the outer surface 315 of the inner wall 309 into the channel 313. In one embodiment, the distance that the first teeth 317 extend into the channel 313 is greatest at the engagement surface 321 and the distance that the first teeth 317 extend into the channel 313 decreases in an upward direction away from the engagement surface 321 toward the entrance to the channel 313 to a minimum proximate the upper axial periphery of the inner wall 309.

In one embodiment, the second teeth 319 also each include a second engagement surface 323 extending generally perpendicularly away from the outer surface 315 of the inner wall 309 into the channel 313. In one embodiment, the distance that the second teeth 319 extend into the channel 313 is greatest at the engagement surface 323 and the distance that the second teeth 319 extend into the channel 313 decreases in an upward direction away from the engagement surface 323 toward the entrance to the channel 313 to a minimum proximate the upper axial periphery of the inner wall 309. In one embodiment, the first engagement surface 321 is located axially lower than the second engagement surface 323. In other embodiments, the first and second engagement surfaces 321 and 323 may be located at generally the same axial height.

With reference to FIG. 17A, as can be seen through the portion of the inner wall 309 shown transparently for clarity, the outer wall 311 includes an inner surface 325 proximate the channel 313. Extending from the inner surface 325 are a plurality of projections, illustrated as a plurality of first, elongated teeth 327 and a plurality of second teeth 329 spaced apart around the inner surface 325 of the outer wall 311 in an alternating configuration. In one embodiment, the first 327 and second 329 teeth extend from locations proximate the axial upper peripheral edge of the inner surface 325 of the outer wall 311 downwardly into the channel 313. In one embodiment, the first, elongated teeth 327 extend farther vertically downwardly into the channel 313 than the second teeth 329. In other embodiments, the teeth 327 and 329 extend the same distance vertically downwardly into the channel 313. The first and second teeth 327 and 329 are spaced apart in an alternating configuration around the inner surface 325 of the outer wall 311.

With reference to FIG. 17C, in one embodiment, the first teeth 327 each include a first engagement surface 331 extending generally perpendicularly away from the inner surface 325 the outer wall 311 into the channel 313. In one embodiment, the distance that the first teeth 327 extend into the channel 313 is greatest at the engagement surface 331 and the distance that the first teeth 327 extend into the channel 313 decreases in an upward direction away from the engagement surface 331 upwardly toward the entrance of the channel 313 to a minimum proximate the upper axial peripheral edge of the inner surface 325 of the outer wall 311.

In one embodiment, the second teeth 329 also each include a second engagement surface 333 extending generally perpendicularly away from the inner surface 325 of the outer wall 311 and into the channel 313. In one embodiment, the distance that the second teeth 329 extend into the channel 313 is greatest at the second engagement surface 333 and the distance that the second teeth 329 extend into the channel 313 decreases in an upward direction away from the engagement surface 333 toward the entrance of the channel 313 to a minimum proximate the upper axial periphery of the inner surface 325 of the outer wall 311. In one embodiment, the first engagement surface 331 is located axially lower than the second engagement surface 333. In other embodiments, the first and second engagement surfaces 331 and 333 may be located at generally the same axial height.

With reference to FIGS. 17-18B, in one embodiment, the first teeth 317 of the inner wall 309 and the first teeth 327 of the outer wall 311 are located proximate one another and the second teeth 319 of the inner wall 309 and the second teeth 329 of the outer wall 311 are located proximate one another. In one embodiment, the teeth 317 and 319 of the inner wall 309 and the teeth 327 and 329 of the outer wall 311 are radially offset relative to one another. Thus, in one embodiment, in a counterclockwise direction, the bottom closure 308 includes a first tooth 317, a first tooth 327, a second tooth 319, a second tooth 329, a first tooth 317, a first tooth 327, a second tooth 319, a second tooth 329, etc., in a repeating pattern around the bottom closure 308. In other embodiments, other suitable configurations of teeth may be provided.

With reference to FIGS. 13-13B and 17-18B, in one embodiment, to couple the bottom closure 308 to the sidewall 302, the second end 312 of the sidewall 302 is located proximate the entrance of the channel 313. The second end 312 of the sidewall 302 is then moved into the channel 313 (in one embodiment, by applying axially directed force on bottom closure 308 toward the sidewall 302, in another embodiment, by applying axially directed force on the sidewall 302 toward the bottom closure, in another embodiment, by applying axially directed force both on the bottom closure 308 toward the sidewall 302 and on the sidewall 302 toward the bottom closure 308, etc.). The first teeth 317 and 327 are located in the apertures 324 of the sidewall 302. The first teeth 317 of the inner wall 309 extend into the apertures 324 from the interior side of the sidewall 302, while the first teeth 327 of the outer wall 3011 extend into the apertures 324 from the exterior side of the sidewall 302. The second teeth 319 and 329 are located in the apertures 322 of the sidewall 322. Similarly, the second teeth 319 of the inner wall 309 extend into the apertures 322 from the interior side of the sidewall 302, while the second teeth 329 of the outer wall 311 extend into the apertures 322 from the exterior side of the sidewall 302.

When the first teeth 317 and 327 are located in the apertures 324 of the sidewall 302, the engagement surfaces 321 and 331 of the first teeth 317 and 327 engage the lower engagement surfaces 328 of the sidewall 302 (lower portions of sidewall 302 defining apertures 324) and prevent downward movement of the bottom closure 308 relative to the sidewall 302, coupling the bottom closure 308 to the sidewall 302. When the second teeth 319 and 329 are located in the apertures 326 of the sidewall 302, the engagement surfaces 323 and 333 of the second teeth 319 and 329 engage the lower engagement surfaces 326 of the sidewall 302 (lower portions of sidewall 302 defining apertures 322) and prevent downward movement of the bottom closure 308 relative to the sidewall 302, coupling the bottom closure 308 to the sidewall 302. Additionally, in one embodiment, rotational displacement between the bottom closure 308 and the sidewall 302 is prevented by interaction of the teeth 317, 327, 319, and 329 and the portions of the sidewall 302 defining apertures 322 and 324.

In one embodiment, adhesive may be applied to at least one of the outer and inner surfaces of a portion of the sidewall 302 proximate the second end 312 prior to locating the sidewall 302 in the channel 313. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied in the channel 313 prior to locating the sidewall 302 in the channel 313. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied both to the sidewall 302 and to the channel 313 prior to locating the sidewall 302 in the channel. In various embodiments, adhesive may provide further coupling of the bottom closure 308 to the sidewall 302.

In various embodiments, teeth are sized and configured (e.g., axial length, radial width, etc.) to be located within their respective apertures in embodiments of sidewalls.

With reference to FIG. 19, another embodiment of a container, illustrated as drum 400, is provided. The drum 400 includes a sidewall 402. In one embodiment, drum 400 is similar in many respects and includes many similar features to previously described embodiments of drums. Therefore, the embodiment of drum 400 is described with reference generally to differences of drum 400.

In one embodiment, the sidewall 402 surrounds a longitudinal axis and extends from a first end 410 to a second end 412. A chime 404 and a bottom closure 408 are configured to be coupled to the first 410 and second 412 ends of the sidewall 402 respectively. In one embodiment, a top closure 406 is provided.

With reference to FIGS. 21 and 21A, in one embodiment, the chime 404 includes an inner wall 414 and an outer wall 416 defining a channel 418 therebetween. The channel 418 is configured to receive the sidewall 402. Defined in the outer wall 416 are a plurality of apertures 420 configured to receive fasteners therethrough. In one embodiment, extending radially outwardly from the outer wall 416 surrounding the apertures 420 are annular raised portions 422.

With reference to FIG. 22B, the annular raised portions 422 include an outer radially projecting portion 424 and a radially lower ledge portion 426 radially inward of the raised portion 424. In one embodiment, with the sidewall 402 located in the channel 418, apertures are formed in the sidewall aligned with the apertures 420 in the outer wall 416 of the chime 404 (e.g., by puncturing the sidewall 402 through the apertures 420, drilling apertures in the sidewall 402 through the apertures 420, or any other suitable mechanism of forming apertures in the sidewall 402 generally aligned with the apertures 420 in the outer wall 416 of the chime 404).

In another embodiment, apertures may be formed in the sidewall 402 proximate the first end 410 prior to the first end 410 of the sidewall 402 being placed in the channel 418. Either before or after the first end 410 of the sidewall 402 is located in the channel 418, the chime 404 and/or the sidewall 402 may be rotated and/or configured relative to one another such that the apertures in sidewall 402 are aligned with the apertures 420 in the outer wall 416 of the chime 404 when the first end 410 of the sidewall 402 is located in the channel 418.

With further reference to FIG. 22B, the annular raised portions 422 are configured such that a fastener 428, including a radially inwardly extending post portion 430 and a head portion 432 having a greater diameter than the post portion 430, may be received therein, with the post portion 430 passing through the aperture 420 and through the aperture in the sidewall 402 generally aligned with the aperture 420, and the head portion 432 resting on the radially lower ledge portion 426 retaining the head portion 432 in the annular raised portion 422. In one embodiment, the ledge portion 426 is configured such that the head portion 432 does not extend farther radially outwardly (relative to the chime 404) than the outer radially projecting portion 424, which may provide protection for the fastener 428. In one embodiment, the radial periphery of the head portion 432 may be flush with the radial periphery of the annular raised portions 422.

In one embodiment, the annular raised portions 422 are unitarily formed with the outer wall 416. In other embodiments, annular raised portions may be formed separately from the outer wall 416 and coupled to the outer wall 416 by any suitable mechanism. In one embodiment, the annular raised portions 422 may extend a distance, D, radially outwardly approximately 0.08 inches from the outer surface of the outer wall 416. In one embodiment, the annular raised portions 422 may have a diameter, D₂ of approximately 0.84 inches.

With reference to FIG. 22B, in one embodiment the post portions 430 of the fasteners 428 are displaced through the apertures formed in the sidewall 402 generally aligned with the apertures 420 in the outer wall 416 to the inner wall 414. In one embodiment, the diameter of the post portions 430 of the fasteners 428 is greater than the diameter of the apertures 420 in the outer wall 416, and the post portions 430 of the fasteners 428 are located within the apertures 420 (e.g., by any suitable mechanism), with the post portions 430 forming a friction fit in the apertures 420 of the chime 404 and being retained therein. In one embodiment, the post portion 430 of the fasteners 428 is of a length longer than distance from the radially inner periphery of the head portion 432 located at the ledge portion 426 to the inner wall 414, therefore, in one embodiment, the post portion 430 displaced through the aperture in the outer wall 416 and is deformed by and/or bonded to the inner wall 414.

In one embodiment, the fasteners 428 are coupled to the outer wall 416. In another embodiment, the fasteners 428 (e.g., the radially inner periphery of the post portions 430, etc.) are also coupled to the inner wall 414. In one embodiment, the fasteners 428 are coupled to the chime 404 by plastic joining (e.g., sonic welding, ultrasonic welding, spin welding, vibrational joining, rotational joining, etc.) In other embodiments, the fasteners 428 may be coupled to the chime 404 by any other suitable mechanism or method. In one embodiment, the head portions 432 are coupled to the ledge portions 426 and the post portions 430 are coupled to the portions of the outer wall 416 defining the apertures 420 and to the outer surface off the inner wall 414 by any suitable mechanism or method of coupling. In one embodiment, the fasteners 428 may be coupled to only one of the inner 414 and outer 416 walls. In another embodiment, the fasteners 428 may be coupled to both the inner and outer walls 414 and 416. In one embodiment, both the fasteners 428 and the chime 404 are formed from plastic.

In one embodiment, adhesive may be applied to at least one of the outer and inner surfaces of a portion of the sidewall 402 proximate the first end 410 prior to locating the sidewall 402 in the channel 418. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied in the channel 418 prior to locating the sidewall 402 in the channel 418. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied both to the sidewall 402 and to the channel 418 prior to locating the sidewall 402 in the channel. In various embodiments, adhesive may provide further coupling of the chime 404 to the sidewall 402.

With reference to FIG. 23, in one embodiment, the drum 400 includes a top closure 406 similar to embodiments of top closures described above.

With reference to FIG. 24, an embodiment of a bottom closure 408 is illustrated. The bottom closure 408 includes an inner wall 434 and an outer wall 436 defining a channel 438 therebetween configured to receive the second end 412 of the sidewall 402 therein. In one embodiment, a plurality of apertures 440 are defined in the outer wall 436, spaced apart around the outer wall 436, configured to receive fasteners therethrough. In one embodiment, extending radially outwardly from the outer wall 436 surrounding the apertures 440 are annular raised portions 442.

With reference to FIG. 25B, the annular raised portions 442 each include an outer radially projecting portion 444 and a radially lower ledge portion 446 radially inward of the raised portion 444. In one embodiment, with the second end 412 of the sidewall 402 located in the channel 438, apertures are formed in the sidewall 402 generally aligned with the apertures 440 defined in the outer wall 436 of the bottom closure 408 (e.g., by puncturing the sidewall 402 through the apertures 440, drilling apertures in the sidewall 402 through the apertures 440, or any other suitable mechanism of forming apertures in the sidewall 402 proximate the second end 412 generally aligned with the apertures 440 of the outer wall 436 of the bottom closure 408).

In another embodiment, aperture may be formed in the sidewall 402 proximate the second end 412 prior to the second end 412 of the sidewall 402 being placed in the channel 438. Either before or after the second end 412 of the sidewall 402 is located in the channel 438, the bottom closure 408 and/or the sidewall 402 may be rotated and/or configured relative to one another such that the apertures in the sidewall 402 proximate its second end 412 are aligned with the apertures 440 in the outer wall 436 of the bottom closure 408 when the second end 412 of the sidewall 402 is located in the channel 438.

With further reference to FIG. 22B, the annular raised portions 442 are configured such that fasteners 448, including a radially inwardly extending post portions 450 and head portions 452 having a greater diameter than the post portions 450, may be received therein with the post portions 448 passing through the apertures 440 and through the apertures in the second end 412 of the sidewall 402 aligned with the apertures 440 and the head portion 452 resting on the radially lower ledge portion 446 retaining the head portion 452 in the annular raised portion 442. In one embodiment, the ledge portion 446 is configured such that the head portion 452 does not extend farther radially outwardly than the outer radially projecting portion 444, which may provide protection for the fastener 448. In one embodiment, the radial periphery of the head portion 152 may be flush with the radial periphery of the annular raised portion 442.

In one embodiment, the annular radially projecting portions 442 are unitarily formed with the outer wall 436. In other embodiments, annular raised portions may be formed separately from the outer wall 436 and coupled to the outer wall 436 by any suitable mechanism. In one embodiment, the annular radially projecting portions 442 may extend radially outwardly a distance D₃ of approximately 0.08 inches from the outer surface of the outer wall 436. In one embodiment, the annular raised portions 442 may have an axial diameter D₄ of approximately 0.84 inches.

With further reference to FIG. 25B, in one embodiment the post portions 450 of the fasteners 448 are displaced through the apertures formed in the sidewall 402 generally aligned with the apertures 440 in the outer wall 436 to the inner wall 434. In one embodiment, the diameter of the post portions 450 of the fasteners 448 is greater than the diameter of the apertures 440 in the outer wall 436, and the post portions 450 of the fasteners 448 are located within the apertures 440 (e.g., by any suitable mechanism), with the post portions 450 forming a friction fit in the apertures 440 of the bottom closure 408 and being retained therein. In one embodiment, the post portion 450 of the fasteners is of a length longer than the distance from the radially inner periphery of the head portion 452 located at the ledge portion 446 to the inner wall 434, therefore, in one embodiment, the post portions 450 displaced through the apertures 440 in the outer wall 436 are deformed by and/or bonded to the inner wall 434.

In one embodiment, the fasteners 448 are coupled to the outer wall 436. In another embodiment, the fasteners 448 (e.g., the radially inner periphery of the post portion 450, etc.) are also coupled to the inner wall 434. In one embodiment, the fasteners 448 are coupled to the bottom closure 408 by plastic joining (e.g., sonic welding, ultrasonic welding, spin welding, vibrational joining, rotational joining, etc.). In other embodiments, the fasteners 448 may be coupled to the bottom closure 408 bay any other suitable mechanism or method. In one embodiment, the head portions 452 are coupled to the to the ledge portions 446 and the post portions 450 are coupled to the portions of the outer wall 436 defining the apertures 440 and/or to the outer surface of the inner wall 434 by any suitable mechanism for or method of coupling. In one embodiment, the fasteners 448 may be coupled to only one of the inner 434 and outer 436 walls. In another embodiment, the fasteners 448 may be coupled to both the inner and outer walls 434 and 436. In one embodiment, both the fasteners 448 and the bottom closure 408 are formed from plastic. In other embodiments, other suitable materials may be used.

In one embodiment, both the fasteners 448 and the bottom closure 408 are formed from plastic. In one embodiment, the sidewall 402 is a fibrous sidewall as described with respect to previous embodiments. In other embodiments, the sidewall may be formed from any other suitable material.

In one embodiment, adhesive may be applied to at least one of the outer and inner surfaces of a portion of the sidewall 402 proximate the second end 412 prior to locating the sidewall 402 in the channel 436. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied in the channel 436 prior to locating the sidewall 402 in the channel 436. In another embodiment, adhesive may be applied both to the sidewall 402 and to the channel 436 prior to locating the sidewall 402 in the channel 436. In various embodiments, adhesive may provide further coupling of the bottom closure 408 to the sidewall 402.

With reference to FIG. 6, while in one embodiment, the upper discontinuous threading portions 148 are described as projecting from the inner wall 140 and the lower discontinuous threading portions 160 are described as projecting from the outer wall 142, in other embodiments, upper projections may project from the outer wall and lower projections may project from the inner wall.

In one embodiment, different numbers of upper 148 and lower 160 discontinuous threading portions may be provided. In another embodiment, the same number of upper 148 and lower 160 discontinuous threading portions are provided.

With reference to FIGS. 13-13B, in one embodiment, the apertures in the sidewall 302 may be formed in pairs that are located spaced apart around the circumference of the sidewall 302. In another embodiment, the apertures in the sidewall 302 may be single apertures or sets of three apertures or any other suitable number of apertures located around the circumference of the sidewall 302. In another embodiment, the apertures in the sidewall 302 may be distributed in any other suitable configuration for engagement with the teeth of the chime and/or bottom closure.

In one embodiment, apertures in the sidewall 302 may be provided as perforations. In one embodiment, the perforations are generally square-shaped. In another embodiment, the perforations are round. In other embodiments, the perforations may be regular or irregular polygonal in shape. In other embodiments, the perforations may be of any other suitable shape with an engagement surface for engagement with the engagement surface of the teeth of the chime and/or bottom closure. In another embodiment, the sidewall 302 may be formed with apertures. In another embodiment, the apertures may be provided after the forming of the sidewall 302 by perforating the sidewall 302 or by any other suitable method. In one embodiment, all of the apertures are generally similar in shape. In other embodiments, the apertures may be of generally different shapes.

Embodiments of sidewalls described above may have various heights. In one embodiment, sidewalls have heights between approximately 15 inches and approximately 44 inches. In another embodiment, sidewalls have heights between approximately 33 inches and approximately 41 inches. In another embodiment, sidewalls have heights of approximately 37 inches.

Embodiments of sidewalls described above may have various diameters. In one embodiment, sidewalls have diameters between approximately 10 inches and approximately 30 inches. In another embodiment, sidewalls have diameters between approximately 15.5 inches and approximately 23 inches. In one embodiment, sidewalls have diameters of approximately 15.5 inches. In another embodiment, sidewalls have diameters of approximately 17 inches. In another embodiment, sidewalls have diameters of approximately 18.5 inches. In another embodiment, sidewalls have diameters of approximately 20 inches. In another embodiment, sidewalls have diameters of approximately 21.5 inches. In another embodiment, sidewalls have diameters of approximately 23 inches.

Embodiments of sidewalls described above may have various thicknesses. In one embodiment, sidewalls have thicknesses of between approximately 3 ply and approximately 13 ply (where a ply is approximately 0.0125 inches). In another embodiment, sidewalls have thicknesses of between approximately 4 ply and approximately 12 ply. In another embodiment, sidewalls have thicknesses of between approximately 5 ply and approximately 11 ply.

Embodiments of drums described above may have various volumes. In one embodiment, drums have a volume of between approximately 15 gallons and approximately 70 gallons. In another embodiment, drums have a volume of between approximately 50 galls and approximately 65 gallons. In another embodiment, drums have a volume of between approximately 55 gallons and approximately 60 gallons.

Embodiments of drums described above may be filled with food product, liquids, parts, medicine, edible or non-edible solids or liquids, powder, dry granular material, or any other suitable material. In one embodiment, drums are configured to hold between approximately 100 pounds and approximately 1000 pounds of material.

Embodiments of drums described above may be configured to be engaged and moved by machinery (e.g., an overhead hoist, etc.) with a grip contacting an area approximately 4 inches wide on opposite sides embodiments of drums, with the grips with approximately 4 inches wide contact with the embodiments of drums, each of the grips disposed in the channels of embodiments of chimes coupled to sidewalls (see, e.g., channel 176 in FIG. 7B, etc.), and configured to exert an upward force on ledge portions of embodiments of chimes (see, e.g., ledge portion 117 in FIG. 7B, etc.). In one embodiment, when embodiments of drums are filled with approximately 800 pounds of material, embodiments of chimes and sidewalls are coupled, e.g., by various embodiments of methods and mechanisms described above, and embodiments of bottom closures and sidewalls are coupled, e.g., by various embodiments of methods and mechanisms described above, such that embodiments of drums may be suspended by the approximately 4 inch wide grips disposed in the channels for at least approximately 2 minutes without failure.

In one embodiment, when embodiments of drums are filled with approximately 800 pounds of material, embodiments of chimes and sidewalls are coupled, e.g., by various embodiments of methods and mechanisms described above, and embodiments of bottom closures and sidewalls are coupled, e.g., by various embodiments of methods and mechanisms described above, such that embodiments of drums may be suspended by the approximately 4 inch wide grips disposed in the channels for at least approximately 5 minutes without failure of embodiments of drums.

In one embodiment, when embodiments of drums are filled with approximately 800 pounds of material, embodiments of chimes and sidewalls are coupled, e.g., by various embodiments of methods and mechanisms described above, and embodiments of bottom closures and sidewalls are coupled, e.g., by various embodiments of methods and mechanisms described above, such that embodiments of drums may be suspended by the approximately 4 inch wide grips disposed in the channels for at least approximately 10 minutes without failure of embodiments of drums.

Embodiments of sidewalls described above may be formed from various materials. In one embodiment, sidewalls may be formed from a suitable fibrous material. In one embodiment, the suitable fibrous material is fiberboard. In other embodiments, sidewalls may be formed from other suitable materials. In one embodiment, sidewalls are formed by rolling paper layers around a forming tube with an adhesive between layers to bond the layers. In other embodiments, sidewalls may be formed by any other suitable mechanism. In one embodiment, sidewalls may be lined with a liner. In one embodiment, the liner is formed from plastic. In one embodiment, the plastic is high density polyethylene (HDPE). In another embodiment, the plastic may be any suitable thermoplastic. In other embodiments, liners may be formed of any suitable material.

As discussed above, in various embodiments, adhesive may be used, in conjunction with embodiments of the mechanisms described above, to couple embodiments of chimes to sidewalls and embodiments of bottom closures to sidewalls. In one embodiment, the adhesive coupling embodiments of chimes and/or embodiments of bottom closures to sidewalls is a thermoplastic adhesive. In another embodiment, the adhesive coupling embodiments of chimes and/or embodiments of bottom closures to sidewalls is a structural adhesive. In another embodiment, the adhesive coupling embodiments of chimes and/or embodiments of bottom closures to sidewalls is an acrylic adhesive. In another embodiment, the adhesive coupling embodiments of chimes and/or embodiments of bottom closures to sidewalls is a two-part acrylic adhesive, such as, e.g., SCOTCH-WELD™ STRUCTURAL ADHESIVE DP 8005 (Translucent), produced by 3M Tapes & Adhesives Group and 3M Industrial Adhesives and Tapes Division. In other embodiments, other suitable types of adhesive may be used to couple embodiments of chimes and/or embodiments of bottom closures to sidewalls. In one embodiment, the adhesive chemically reacts with embodiments of chimes and/or embodiments of bottom closures prior to curing when placed in contact with the embodiments of the chimes and/or bottom closures. In one embodiment, adhesive chemically bonds with plastic such as, for example, high density polyethylene, prior to curing and when placed in contact with plastic. In one embodiment, a chime and/or a bottom closure are formed from plastic and adhesive chemically bonds with the chime and/or bottom closure.

In one embodiment, embodiments of adhesives described above may be configured to bond polyolefins and low surface energy materials, e.g., fibrous materials, fiberboard, etc. In one embodiment, the overlap shear strength of embodiments of adhesives at 75° Fahrenheit is greater than approximately 1000 psi. In another embodiment, the overlap shear strength of embodiments of adhesives at 75° Fahrenheit is greater than approximately 2000 psi. In another embodiment, the overlap shear strength of embodiments of adhesives at 75° Fahrenheit is approximately 2400 psi.

In one embodiment, embodiments of adhesives are configured to bond to, for example, polyolefins without surface preparation of the polyolefins.

In one embodiment of a method of providing a container, the embodiment of adhesive coupling the chime and bottom closure to the sidewall is a two-part adhesive and the method of providing the container includes mixing the two parts to form the adhesive. In one embodiment, the two parts are a methacrylate and an amine. In one embodiment, the adhesive is approximately 10 parts methacrylate to approximately 1 part amine. In another embodiment, the adhesive is approximately 9.16 parts methacrylate to approximately 1 part amine. In other embodiments, other suitable combinations may be used.

In various embodiments, sidewalls as described above may form various shapes. In one embodiment, the sidewall forms a right cylinder. In other embodiments, sidewalls may form various other suitable shapes.

In various embodiments, chimes as described above may be formed from plastic. In one embodiment, the plastic is high density polyethylene (HDPE). In another embodiment, the plastic is polypropylene. In other embodiments, the plastic may be any suitable polyolefin. In other embodiments, the plastic may be formed of any suitable synthetic resin. In other embodiments, the plastic may be any suitable type of thermosetting polymer or thermoplastic. In other embodiments, the chime may be formed of any suitable type of material. In one embodiment, the chime may be formed by molding. In other embodiments, the chime may be formed by any other suitable method.

In various embodiments, bottom closures as described above may be formed from plastic. In one embodiment, the plastic is high density polyethylene (HDPE). In another embodiment, the plastic is polypropylene. In other embodiments, the plastic may be any suitable polyolefin. In other embodiments, the plastic may be formed of any suitable synthetic resin. In other embodiments, the plastic may be any suitable type of thermosetting polymer or thermoplastic. In other embodiments, the bottom closure may be formed of any suitable type of material. In one embodiment, the bottom closure may be formed by molding. In other embodiments, the bottom closure may be formed by any other suitable method.

In various embodiments, top closures as described above may be formed from plastic. In one embodiment, the plastic is high density polyethylene (HDPE). In another embodiment, the plastic is polypropylene. In other embodiments, the plastic may be any suitable polyolefin. In other embodiments, the plastic may be formed of any suitable synthetic resin. In other embodiments, the plastic may be any suitable type of thermosetting polymer or thermoplastic. In other embodiments, the top closure may be formed of any suitable type of material. In one embodiment, the top closure may be formed by molding. In other embodiments, the top closure may be formed by any other suitable method.

In various exemplary embodiments, the relative dimensions, including angles, lengths and radii, as shown in the Figures are to scale. Actual measurements of the Figures will disclose relative dimensions, angles and proportions of the various exemplary embodiments. Various exemplary embodiments extend to various ranges around the absolute and relative dimensions, angles and proportions that may be determined from the Figures. Various exemplary embodiments include any combination of one or more relative dimensions or angles that may be determined from the Figures. Further, actual dimensions not expressly set out in this description can be determined by using the ratios of dimensions measured in the Figures in combination with the express dimensions set out in this description.

Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only. The construction and arrangements, shown in the various exemplary embodiments, are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Some elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm, or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the current application recites particular combinations of features in the claims appended hereto, various embodiments of the invention relate to any combination of any of the features described herein whether or not such combination is currently claimed, and any such combination of features may be claimed in this or future applications. Any of the features, elements, or components of any of the exemplary embodiments discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any of the features, elements, or components of any of the other embodiments discussed above.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” means the joining of two components directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional member being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature.

Claims

1. A shipping drum comprising:

a fibrous cylindrical sidewall extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end to a second end and having an inner surface and an outer surface; and

a bottom closure formed from plastic and including inner and outer walls proximate the radial periphery of the bottom closure, the inner and outer walls defining a channel configured to receive the second end of the sidewall therein, the inner wall including first discontinuous threading portions extending outwardly into the channel, the outer wall including second discontinuous threading portions extending inwardly into the channel, the first and second discontinuous threading portions engaging the sidewall wall to couple the bottom closure to the sidewall.

2. The shipping drum of claim 1, further comprising a chime including an inner wall having an outer surface including a first discontinuous threading portion and an outer wall having an inner surface including a second discontinuous threading portion, the outer wall and the inner wall defining a channel, the first and second discontinuous threading portions extending into the channel.

3. The shipping drum of claim 2, wherein the chime includes a top portion including third discontinuous threading portions, the shipping drum further comprising a top closure including fourth discontinuous threading portions, the third and fourth discontinuous threading portions configured to interact to couple the top closure to the chime.

4. The shipping drum of claim 1, configured to hold a volume of between approximately 55 gallons and approximately 60 gallons.

5. The shipping drum of claim 1, wherein the first and second discontinuous threading portions are configured to engage the sidewall to couple the bottom closure to the sidewall by rotating the chime less than 360° relative to the sidewall.

6. The shipping drum of claim 5, wherein the first discontinuous threading portion includes a leg portion and a rotation inhibiting portion, the leg portion extending angularly upwardly toward the rotation inhibiting portion located axially above and radially counterclockwise from the leg portion.

7. The shipping drum of claim 1, wherein the first and second discontinuous threading portions are offset relative to one another in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

8. A drum comprising:

a cylindrical sidewall extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end to a second end and having an inner surface and an outer surface, the sidewall including a plurality of apertures proximate the second end; and

a bottom closure including a first wall and a second wall spaced apart from the first wall, the first and second walls forming a channel therebetween configured to receive the second end of the cylindrical sidewall, the first wall having a first surface proximate the channel and a first projection projecting from the first surface into the channel, the first projection including a first engagement surface, the second wall having a second surface proximate the channel and a second projection projecting from the second surface into the channel, the second projection including a second engagement surface;

wherein the first projection projects into one of the apertures of the sidewall and the first engagement surface engages the sidewall to couple the bottom closure to the sidewall; and

wherein the second projection projects into another of the apertures of the sidewall and the second engagement surface engages the sidewall to couple the bottom closure to the sidewall.

9. The drum of claim 8, wherein the cylindrical sidewall includes a plurality of apertures proximate the first end, the drum further comprising a chime including a first wall and a second wall spaced apart from the first wall, the first and second walls including a channel therebetween configured to receive the first end of the cylindrical sidewall, the first wall having a first surface proximate the channel and a third projection projecting from the first surface into the channel, the third projection including a third engagement surface, the second wall having a second surface proximate the channel and a fourth projection projecting from the interior surface into the channel, the fourth projection including a fourth engagement surface;

wherein the third projection projects into one of the apertures proximate the first end of the cylindrical sidewall and the third engagement surface engages the sidewall to couple the chime to the sidewall; and

wherein the fourth projection projects into another of the apertures proximate the first end of the cylindrical sidewall and the fourth engagement surface engages the sidewall to couple the chime to the sidewall.

10. The drum of claim 9, further comprising a top closure configured to be coupled to the chime to close the first end of the cylindrical sidewall.

11. The drum of claim 8, wherein the first wall includes a third projection projecting from the first surface into the channel, the third projection including a third engagement surface, the third engagement surface being axially offset in a direction parallel with the longitudinal axis from the first engagement surface; and

wherein the second wall includes a fourth projection projecting from the second surface into the channel, the fourth projection including a fourth engagement surface, the fourth engagement surface being axially offset in a direction parallel with the longitudinal axis from the second engagement surface.

12. The drum of claim 11, wherein the second projection is located radially between the first projection and the third projection; and

wherein the third projection is located radially between the second projection and the fourth projection.

13. The drum of claim 12, wherein the first and second engagement surfaces are generally parallel and generally located in a first plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis;

wherein the third and fourth engagement surfaces are generally parallel and generally located in a second plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; and

wherein the first plane and the second plane are generally parallel and are non-co-planar.

14. The drum of claim 8, configured to hold a volume of between approximately 55 gallons and approximately 60 gallons.

15. The drum of claim 8, wherein the cylindrical sidewall is a fiberboard cylindrical sidewall; and

wherein the bottom closure is a plastic bottom closure.

16. The drum of claim 8, wherein the plastic bottom closure is a high density polyethylene bottom closure; and

wherein the fiberboard cylindrical sidewall has a diameter between approximately 15 inches and approximately 23 inches and a height of between approximately 30 inches and approximately 44 inches.

17. The drum of claim 16, wherein the diameter of the fiberboard cylindrical sidewall is between approximately 21 inches and approximately 22 inches.

18. The drum of claim 8, further comprising a portion of adhesive that chemically reacts with the bottom closure prior to curing, the adhesive bonding the bottom closure to the second end of the fiberboard cylindrical sidewall.

19. A drum comprising:

a cylindrical sidewall extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end to a second end and having an inner surface and an outer surface, the sidewall including a plurality of apertures proximate the second end;

a plastic bottom closure including a first wall and a second wall spaced apart from the first wall, the first and second walls forming a channel therebetween configured to receive the second end of the cylindrical sidewall, the second wall including a plurality of apertures therethrough; and

a plurality of plastic fasteners each passing through an aperture and coupling the bottom closure to the sidewall.

20. The drum of claim 19, further comprising annular radially projecting portions aligned with the apertures and projecting from an outer surface of the second wall;

wherein the fasteners do not extend farther radially outwardly than an outer radial periphery of the annular radially projecting portions; and

wherein the fasteners are sonically welded to the second wall.