APPARATUS FOR DISPENSING SEEDS AND RECEIVING SKINS

Abstract

A snack food container is configured with a container compartment and a receptacle compartment. The container compartment is configured to contain shelled foods such as sunflower seeds. The receptacle compartment is configured to receive discarded skins such as sunflower seed skins. The snack food container can have a rotatable lid with an aperture that is selectively alignable with either the container compartment or the receptacle compartment. The lid aperture can be sized and shaped in a manner to best assist in dispensing fresh seeds from the container compartment into a user's mouth, and to receive discarded skins from the user's mouth.

Description

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to the field of snack food containers and dispensers, and more particularly relates to a container that dispenses shelled seeds or nuts, but also receives and contains the discarded shells of such seeds or nuts.

Snack food products such as sunflower seeds, pistachios, peanuts, other shelled nuts and similar items are very popular. Consuming these snack food items generates waste, as each seed or the like must be removed from its shell or cover (collectively its “skin”). The skin is not eaten by the user, and is instead discarded. These types of snack foods often are consumed in outdoor locations that lack convenient access to a refuse container. As an example, sunflower seeds typically are sold as bags of such seeds still enclosed in their original skins. The user will pour several seeds into his mouth, remove the skins while the seeds are in his mouth, and eventually spit the unused skins onto the ground. As a result, consumption of snack food items such as sunflower seeds can leave a mess behind.

Conscientious consumers wish to avoid creating messes but have limited options, as current snack food containers do not provide an adequate skin receptacle combined with the container/dispenser. Efforts have been made to provide a snack food container that includes a receptacle for receiving used skins. However, such efforts have resulted in the creation of bulky, hard-to-use, overly-expensive or otherwise unacceptable designs.

Typical bags of snack foods such as sunflower seeds can also be difficult to work with. Such bags tend to tear unpredictably, often resulting in spillage. The bags also do not support themselves. Thus, the user must keep the bag in their hand or risk spillage. Bags can also be unpredictable and difficult to work with when pouring seeds into a user's hand or mouth.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a snack food container that can both dispense shelled snack food items and receive the spent skins, and which can be operated easily and manufactured inexpensively. There is also a need in the art for a snack food container that dispenses the snacks in a natural and easy manner, and also easily receives spent skins. There is a further need in the art for a snack food container that accomplishes such advantages while supporting itself when not being held in the user's hands.

In accordance with one embodiment, the present specification discloses a snack food container, comprising an elongated body, a divider, and a lid. The elongated body extends from a proximal end to a distal end. The body is closed at the distal end and has a proximal opening defined at the proximal end. The proximal end has a substantially circular circumferential rim, and the body defines a cavity. The divider is within the elongated body and divides the cavity into a first and a second compartment. The lid comprises a top portion and a flange that depends from an edge of the top portion, and the lid is removably attachable to the circumferential rim so that the flange engages the circumferential rim. An aperture is formed through the lid, and is defined by a back edge, a primary curved edge portion and a secondary curved edge portion. The primary curved edge portion is arcuate about a first radius of curvature, and the secondary curved edge portion is arcuate about a second radius of curvature. The aperture is sized and configured to align with one or the other of the first and second compartments.

In one such embodiment, the second radius of curvature is less than the first radius of curvature. In some such embodiments, the second radius of curvature is between 0.6 and 1.25 inches. In some embodiments, the second radius of curvature approximates the average curvature of a human bottom lip.

In additional embodiments, the primary curved edge portion comprises first and second primary curved edge portions, and the secondary curved edge portion is arranged between the first and second primary curved edge portions.

Further embodiments additionally comprise a removable flexible seal attached to the circumferential rim, wherein a portion of the seal is sandwiched between the flange and the circumferential rim. In some such embodiments the seal comprises a tab extending from an edge of the seal, and the seal is positioned on the circumferential rim so that the tab is aligned with the divider. In additional embodiments, a base of the seal is defined diametrically opposite the tab, and an adhesive layer is interposed between the circumferential rim and the seal to bond the seal to the rim, and the adhesive layer is configured to exert a stronger bond between the base of the seal and the circumferential rim than elsewhere between the seal and the circumferential rim.

In yet further embodiments, an upper edge of the divider extends proximally beyond the circumferential rim.

Still further embodiments additionally comprise an attachment member on the body, the attachment member comprising a hook. In some such embodiments, the hook is selectively movable relative to the body, and the hook is configured to be engageable with a structure so that the snack food container can be supported by the hook in a hanging configuration.

In accordance with another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a bag-based snack food container, comprising a main bag and a secondary bag. The main bag is formed of a flexible polymer and defines a primary compartment for containing seeds. The secondary bag is formed of a flexible polymer and is bonded to an outer surface of the main bag, the secondary bag having a tab that is releasably adhered to the outer surface of the main bag. In a first configuration the secondary bag is folded flat onto the outer surface of the main bag and the tab is adhered to the outer surface of the main bag. In a second configuration the tab is detached from the outer surface of the main bag and the secondary bag is unfolded so as to define a secondary compartment for containing skins, a secondary compartment opening being defined adjacent the tab. In a third configuration the secondary bag remains unfolded and the tab is adhered to the outer surface of the main bag so as to close the secondary compartment.

Some such embodiments additionally comprise a hanger member attached to the container, the hanger member comprising a hook portion configured to engaged a chain-link fence so the container can be hung from a chain-link fence.

In accordance with yet another embodiment the present disclosure provides a method of eating seeds and disposing of skins, comprising a user grasping an elongated body that encloses a cavity separated by a divider into a primary compartment and a secondary compartment. A plurality of seeds are provided in the primary compartment. The body has a circular proximal rim and a lid arranged atop the rim. The lid has an aperture defined by a back edge, a primary curved edge portion and a secondary curved edge portion. The primary curved edge portion is arcuate about a first radius of curvature. The secondary curved edge portion is arcuate about a second radius of curvature. The method additionally comprises the user aligning the aperture with the primary compartment, the user lifting the body and pressing the user's bottom lip to the lid adjacent the secondary curved edge portion, and the user tilting the body so that seeds dispense through the aperture into the user's mouth.

Further embodiments additionally comprise the user rotating the lid about the rim so that the aperture is aligned with the secondary compartment, the user lifting the body, and the user dispensing discarded skins from the user's mouth into the secondary compartment. Some such embodiments additionally comprise the user removing the lid, at least partially removing a flexible seal from the rim, and replacing the lid onto the rim. Further embodiments may additionally comprise the user removing the lid after dispensing discarded skins from the user's mouth into the secondary compartment, replacing the flexible seal onto the rim, and replacing the lid onto the rim so that at least a portion of the flexible seal is sandwiched between the lid and the rim.

In yet additional embodiments the body comprises a hook member, and the method additionally comprise extending the hook member onto a structure and hanging the body from the structure. Some such embodiments additionally comprise unfolding the hook member from the body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment having features in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an exploded side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows the embodiment of FIG. 1 with a lid removed and an upper seal partially removed;

FIG. 4 is a top view of a lid in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 depicted in a dispensing configuration;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 5 dispensing seeds into the user's mouth;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 5 depicted in a receiving configuration;

FIG. 8 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 7 with a user spitting skins into a waste compartment;

FIG. 9 shows a lid of the embodiment of FIG. 1 being placed atop a body of the container;

FIG. 10 is perspective view of another embodiment in which the upper seal is not completely removed so that it may easily be replaced after use;

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of another embodiment having features in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 shows a side view of another embodiment having a hook member attached to a body thereof;

FIG. 13 shows the embodiment of FIG. 12 hanging upon a fence;

FIG. 14 is a cutaway view of another embodiment having features in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a cutaway view of still another embodiment having features in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 is a side view of yet another embodiment having features in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 17-17 of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 16 with a waste compartment portion open and ready to receive discarded skins;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a lid for use with the present snack food container;

FIG. 20 is a side view of still another embodiment of a lid for use with the present snack food container.

DESCRIPTION

With initial reference to FIGS. 1-3, an embodiment of a snack food container 30 is shown. The illustrated snack food container 30 preferably is configured to contain and dispense snack foods, such as sunflower seeds, in which an edible fruit such as a seed or nut is enclosed within a skin or cover such as a shell. Although the snack food is provided with the fruit enclosed within its skin, typically the user will remove and discard the skin, and eat only the fruit. For purposes of this disclosure the fruit, such as the seed, nut or the like will be referred to as a “seed” 32, and the skin or cover, such as a shell, will be referred to as a “skin” 34.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, the illustrated snack food container 30 comprises a cup-shaped body 40 defined by a circumferential outer wall having bottom (distal) and top (proximal) edges 42, 46. The illustrated body 40 is generally cylindrical but tapered to decrease in diameter from the top edge 46 to the bottom edge 42. Preferably, a bottom wall 48 is arranged at or adjacent the bottom edge 42 so that the body 40 is enclosed except at a top opening 50 adjacent the top edge 46. As such, the body 40 defines an internal cavity 52.

Preferably, the body 40 is sized so as to be easily handled by a user and is formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as paper or plastic, so that it has sufficient rigidity to be handled in the same manner as a user typically handles a drinking cup. For example, a typical drinking cup can be used as the body 40, and can be provided in popular drinking cup sizes such as 8, 12, and 16 ounces.

A circumferential rim 60 is formed at the top edge 46 of the body 40. The rim 60 can be formed in many ways, such as by folding over the material at the top edge and/or providing extra or thickened material at the top edge 46. As such, the rim 60 has an increased outer diameter and increased rigidity relative to adjacent portions of the body 40.

Continuing with reference to FIGS. 1-3, an elongate divider 62 extends from the bottom wall 48 to at least the top edge 46 of the body 40 and extends diametrically across the internal cavity 52 of the body 40 so as to divide the cavity 52 into a first, or container, compartment 66 and a second, or receptacle, compartment 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the divider 62 extends diametrically across the cavity 52 at or near the middle of the cavity, which is the point of maximum diameter of the body 40. As such, the divider 62 divides the body opening 50 into a container compartment opening and a receptacle compartment opening. An upper edge 64 of the divider 62 preferably is aligned with or above (proximal of) the top edge 46 of the body 40. As shown, a snack food such as sunflower seeds 32 can be provided in the container compartment 66, while the receptacle compartment 68 is reserved for discarded skins 34. As such, the receptacle compartment 68 may be empty when the product is first sold. The divider 62 separates and prevents crossover of seeds 32 or skins 34 between the container and receptacle compartments 66, 68.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, an upper seal 70 comprising a flexible foil or film preferably is adhered to the circumferential rim 60 of the body 40. In some embodiments the upper edge 64 of the divider 62 is also adhered to the upper seal 70. Preferably, the upper edge 64 of the divider 62 is positioned so that, whether it is adhered or not, it is in contact with, and more preferably is biased against, the upper seal 70 so as to prevent seeds 32 or skins 34 from passing between the seal 70 and the upper edge 64 of the divider 62 and into the wrong compartment. In some embodiments, the upper edge 64 may extend a short distance proximal the rim 60 so that the upper edge 64 is biased against the seal 70.

In the illustrated embodiment, the upper seal 70 comprises an optional tab 72 to help the user remove the upper seal from the top edge 46. The tab 72 can be placed in any desired position about the circumference of the top edge 46. In the illustrated embodiment, however, the tab 72 is generally diametrically aligned with the divider 62 so that when the upper seal 70 is pulled back, as shown in FIG. 3, the last remaining portion of the upper seal 70 adhered to the top edge, defined as a base portion 74 of the upper seal, is at or adjacent a location where the divider 62 intersects the body inner surface.

A cap or lid 80 is configured to fit atop the body 40 to at least partially enclose the interior cavity 52 of the body 40. The lid 80 comprises a top portion 84, a circumferential edge 86, and a flange 88 depending from the circumferential edge 86. An inner diameter of the lid 80 at the flange 88 is configured to substantially match or be marginally smaller than the outer diameter of the circumferential rim 60. As such, the lid 80 fits relatively tightly onto the rim 60. Preferably, however, the size of the lid and material makeup of the lid are chosen so that the lid 80 engages the circumferential rim 60 of the body 40, but is readily rotated while engaged with the rim 60.

As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the upper seal 70 fits atop the circumferential rim 60 of the body, and the lid 80 fits over the upper seal. Preferably the diameter of the upper seal 70 is greater than a diameter of the rim 60 so that an edge portion 89 of the upper seal can partially wrap around the rim. As such, the upper seal is held in place not only by adhesive between the upper seal 70 and the rim 60, but also by the lid engagement with the rim, wherein the edge portion 89 of the upper seal 70 is sandwiched between the flange 88 of the lid 80 and the rim 60 of the body. When the upper seal 70 is in place as depicted in FIGS. 1-3, access to the container and receptacle compartments 66, 68 of the snack food container 30 is blocked. Similarly, as discussed above, preferably the upper edge of the divider 62 is biased against or at least in close enough proximity to the upper seal 70 so that seeds 32 and skins 34 are blocked from crossing between the seal 70 and the divider 62.

With additional reference to FIG. 4, an aperture 90 is formed through the top portion 84 of the lid 80. In the illustrated embodiment the lid 80 has a center point 92 or vertical axis. A back surface or back edge 94 of the aperture 90 is offset a first offset distance 96 from the center point 92 of the lid 80. Preferably, the back edge 94 is parallel to a diameter through the center point 92. A first curved edge 100 of the aperture 90 extends from each end of the back edge 94 and follows a first radius of curvature 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the first radius of curvature 102 is taken about the axis 92 of the lid 80. As such, a width of the lid top portion 84 between the aperture first curved edge 100 and the circumferential edge 86 of the lid 80 remains constant at a first width 104.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first curved edge 100 is interrupted by a second curved edge 110 of the aperture 90 interposed between first and second portions of the first curved edge 100A, B. The second curved edge 110 is curved about a second radius of curvature 112 that is smaller than the first radius of curvature 102. Further, a second center of curvature 114, or a second axis, of the second curved edge 110 is offset a second distance 116 from the lid axis, or center point 92. In a preferred embodiment, the second center of curvature 114 is diametrically aligned with the center point 92 along a diameter perpendicular to the back edge 94 so that the second curved edge 110 is generally centered between opposing portions 100A, B of the first curved edge.

Continuing with particular reference to FIG. 4, the width of the lid top portion 84 between the second curved edge 110 and the circumferential edge 86 of the lid 80 varies along the second curved edge. More specifically, the width decreases moving circumferentially from having the first width 104 at a point where the second curved edge 110 intersects the first portion of the first curved edge 100A to a second, or minimum, width 120, and then increases again to the first width 104 at another point where the second curved edge 110 intersects the second portion of the first curved edge 100B. The second width 120 is the minimum width of the lid top portion 84 between the aperture 90 and the circumferential edge 86. In a preferred embodiment, the location of the minimum width is centered between the first and second portions of the first curved edge 100A, B, and most preferably is centered between first and second ends of the back edge 94 of the aperture 90. The location of minimum width can also be considered to be along a line of symmetry dividing the aperture 90.

With additional reference to FIGS. 5-6, when the upper seal 70 has been removed from the body 40 and the lid 80 has been replaced onto the circumferential rim 60, the lid 80 can be rotated so as to align the aperture 90 with the container compartment 66. Preferably, and in a manner as discussed above, the aperture 90 through the lid 80 is sized and positioned so as to provide access only to the container compartment 66 of the body 40. However, in this configuration access to the receptacle compartment 68 is blocked. In a preferred embodiment, the divider 62 and lid 80 are configured so that the divider 62 engages a bottom surface of the lid top portion 84, blocking contents from passing between the container and receptacle compartments 66, 68 between the divider and the lid 80.

With particular reference to FIG. 6, in the illustrated embodiment the body 40 has a cup-like shape and is relatively rigid. For example, the body 40 is substantially more rigid than a typical snack food bag. Preferably the body is sufficiently rigid so that the user can handle the snack food container 30 like a drinking cup. In use, with the lid aperture 90 aligned with the container compartment 66, which is filled with fresh seeds 32, the user can pick up the snack food container 30 and pour seeds 32 into his mouth using a motion similar to the motion of pouring a drink from a cup into the user's mouth. Most preferably, the user will touch his bottom lip to the top portion 84 of the lid 80 at or adjacent the rim 60 and rotate the body 40 about the point of contact in order to pour seeds 32 into his mouth.

In a preferred embodiment, the second edge portion 110 of the aperture 90 is generally centered in the aperture 90 along the edge 86 of the lid 80. As such, the user is likely to align his mouth with the center of the second edge portion 110. Most preferably, the second radius of curvature 112 is selected to approximate the curvature of an average user's bottom lip engaging the edge 86 of the lid 80. Preferably, the second radius of curvature is between about 0.6-1.25 inches.

In one preferred embodiment, the second radius of curvature is between about ⅓-⅔ of the first radius of curvature. More preferably the second radius of curvature is between about ⅖-⅘ of the first radius of curvature. Even more preferably the second radius of curvature is between about 3/7- 4/7 of the first radius of curvature.

The first radius of curvature 102 provides an aperture 90 that is very large, providing sufficient access to the seeds 32. The second radius of curvature 112 provides a more focused zone for seed delivery, and as noted above the width of the lid top surface is reduced at the center of the second curved edge 110. As such, seeds 32 will preferentially dispense in the area of the second curved edge 110. The user will thus be better able to control dispensing of seeds 32, particularly pouring of seeds into his mouth, and to reduce the likelihood that seeds will be dispensed onto the user's cheeks rather than into the user's mouth. Since the second curved edge 110 approximates the curvature of the user's bottom lip, which is engaged with the top surface adjacent the second curved edge, seeds 32 are dispensed in an efficient and clean manner with minimal losses.

It is also anticipated that sometimes a user will touch his bottom lip to the flange 88 of the lid or body 40 of the container while pouring seeds into his mouth. In such a motion, the first and second curved edges 100, 110 still cooperate to preferentially direct fresh seeds into the user's mouth.

After dispensing fresh seeds 32 into his mouth, the user can then grasp the lid 80 and rotate the lid 80, while it is still engaged with the body rim, until the lid aperture 90 is aligned with the receptacle compartment 68 as shown in FIG. 7. In this position the receptacle compartment 68 is accessible, but access to the container compartment 66 is blocked. As discussed above, preferably the lid 80 and body 40 are configured so that the lid 80 fits snugly atop the rim 60, but sufficiently loose to enable the user to readily rotate the lid about the axis of the lid and body while the lid remains engaged with the rim.

With additional reference to FIG. 8, after the user has removed the skins 34 from the seeds 32 in his mouth, the user again lifts the container to his mouth as if handling a drink cup. The user again touches his bottom lip to the lid top surface adjacent the second curved edge 110 and spits the separated skins 34 into the receptacle compartment 68. Again, the second edge portion of the lid aperture provides a preferential entryway through the lid aperture 90, and is sized and shaped to approximate the user's bottom lip. In additional embodiments, the user may spit the discarded skins through the aperture 90 and into the receptacle compartment 68 without touching his lip to the lid 80. The relatively large size of the aperture 90 that is defined by the first and second curved edges 100, 110 enables such versatility. In yet additional embodiments the user may engage one or more of the edges of the aperture 90 to assist in dislodging a skin that may temporarily stick to his lip.

In a preferred embodiment, the snack food container 30 can be substantially resealed after use. For example, as depicted in FIG. 9, the film upper seal 70 can be replaced on the circumferential rim 60 of the body 40, and the lid 80 placed atop the seal 70. In the illustrated embodiment, once the seal has been initially removed from the circumferential rim 60, there is little or no remaining effective adhesive to hold the upper seal onto the rim. However the user may apply the lid 80 over the seal 70. As discussed above, preferably the flange 88 of the lid 80 will sandwich the seal 70 between it and the rim 60 sufficient to hold the upper seal in place.

In some embodiments, the adhesive applied to the rim to hold the upper seal 70 thereon may remain tacky after the upper seal is removed so as to more readily hold the upper seal in place when it is replaced on the rim. In one such embodiment the lid 80 can be configured so that when it is placed atop the body 40, the top of the lid is spaced from a top surface of the body rim so as to avoid engagement with any adhesive remaining on the top of the rim.

With reference next to FIG. 10, in some embodiments, the user may be directed to only partially remove the upper seal 70 from the rim 60 during use. For example, as shown, when initially removing the seal 70 the user pulls on the tab 72 to peel back the upper seal almost completely (as depicted in FIG. 3) so that only the base portion 74 of the upper seal remains attached to the circumferential rim 60. The user then replaces the lid 80 as depicted in FIG. 10 while the seal remains partially removed. The upper seal 70 is thus maintained in partial contact with the rim 60 but is out of the way of dispensing seeds 32 or receiving skins 34 during use of the container. When the user desires to reseal the container, the user may simply remove the lid 80, replace the upper seal 70 and replace the lid 80 to again secure the upper seal in place.

In some embodiments, a greater amount of adhesive, or a portion of a stronger adhesive, may be employed to attach the base portion 74 of the seal 70 to the rim 60 than is used elsewhere to attach the seal to the rim. This can reduce the risk that the seal will be inadvertently completely removed. Preferably, however, the adhesive still will allow complete removal of the upper seal from the rim 60 should it be desired by the user.

With reference next to FIG. 11, another embodiment is illustrated in which the divider 62 includes an extension member 130 along its top edge 64. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension member 130 extends transversely from the top edge of the divider 62 in a direction toward and above the container compartment 66 so as to partially close the container compartment 66, and reduce the effective size of the container compartment opening. The extension member 130 can be directed generally parallel to the upper seal 70 and lid 80 or can be biased upwardly generally into contact with the upper seal and/or lid in order to improve separation between the container and receptacle compartments 66, 68. In the illustrated embodiment, a side edge 132 of the extension 130 is displaced from a center, or point of maximum diameter, of the body opening 50 so that the container compartment opening comprises less than half of the body opening 50.

With reference next to FIGS. 12-13, in another embodiment, one or more attachment members 140 can be provided on the body 40. The attachment members can take various shapes and sizes. In the illustrated embodiment the attachment member 140 comprises is formed of a semirigid material such as cardstock or paper and has a base 142 that is glued to the outer wall of the body 40. Curved hook portions 144 extend in opposite directions relative to the base 142. The hook portions 144 preferably are not glued to the body 40. A fold zone is defined between the base 142 and each of the hooks 144. As such the hooks 144 can be folded so that the two hooks 144 extend away from the body 40. The hooks 144 can then be used to hang the container from various structures. For example, FIG. 13 depicts the hooks 144 extending through and engaging a chain-link fence 148 such as is often found in baseball or softball dugouts. As such, the container removably hangs from the fence 148 and is supported thereby. Other structures, such as nets, bars and the like can be engaged with such hooks 144. In this manner, when the snack food container 30 is not in use, it can be easily hung on a structure so that it is out of the way yet conveniently accessible.

With reference next to FIG. 14, in another embodiment, the divider 62 may be slanted so as to maximize the volume in one of the container or receptacle compartments 66, 68. More specifically, the upper or top edge 64 of the divider 62 may remain generally centrally located in the opening 50 of the body 40 but the divider 62 is angled relative to an axis of the body 40 so that the cross-sectional area of the container compartment 66 increases moving downward from the top edge 46 to the bottom wall 48. As such, the snack food container 30 becomes capable of containing more fresh seeds 32 while keeping the same proportions between the container compartment opening and the receptacle compartment opening.

With reference next to FIG. 15, in yet another embodiment, the divider 62 wall is offset from a center, or location of maximum diameter, of the body opening 50 along the length of the divider 62, and even at the top edge 64 of the divider 62. However, preferably the extension portion 130 of the divider wall extends from the top edge 64 of the divider 62 at least to the location of maximum diameter of the body opening 50, which is also halfway across the body opening 50. In some embodiments the extension member 130 may extend beyond the halfway point of the body opening so that the extension side edge 132 is disposed on the opposite side of the body opening 50 center that is the top edge 64 of the divider 62.

With reference next to FIGS. 16-18, another embodiment of a snack food container 149 comprises a main bag 150 having seal portions along its top and bottom edges 154, 156. The main bag 150 can be configured in a manner similar to typical snack food container bags such as bags in which sunflower seeds 32 are typically sold. The bag can be made of any of several flexible polymer materials. In the illustrated embodiment, a secondary bag 160 is attached to the main bag 150. As shown, the secondary bag 160 comprises a sheet of flexible polymer having opposing edges 162 that are attached such as by adhesive, heat seal, or the like to an outer surface of the main bag 150. In a first configuration as shown in FIGS. 16-17, the secondary bag 160 is folded over itself adjacent each opposing edge 162, thus creating folded portions 164 so that the secondary bag 160 is folded close to and generally in contact with the main bag 150. The bottom portion of the secondary bag 160 preferably is sealed with the bottom portion of the main bag 150.

With continued reference to FIGS. 16-18, in the illustrated embodiment a tab 170 is disposed at or adjacent an upper surface or upper edge of the secondary bag 160, and an adhesive layer 172, comprising for example a tacky, resealable adhesive, is provided on the outer surface of the main bag 150 adjacent the tab 170 or, in another embodiment, on the tab 170 itself. As such, the tab 170 can be releasably engaged with or releasably adhered to the main bag 150.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 16-17, when the bag-based snack container is initially sold, the folded portions 164 of the empty secondary bag 160 are in the folded condition and the tab 170 is closed so that the secondary bag 160 is folded close to and generally approximating the shape of the main bag 150, which preferably is filled with fresh seeds 32.

During use, the user opens the main bag 150 and dispenses seeds 32 into his mouth. As best shown in FIG. 18, the user may then engage and pull on the tab 170 so as to open the secondary bag 160 and to unfold the folded portions so that the secondary bag 160 defines a skin receptacle compartment 174 between the secondary bag 160 and the outer surface of the main bag 150. The user can spit discarded skins 34 and/or other refuse into the secondary bag 160 and, when desired, reengage the tab 170 with the adhesive layer 172 so as to close the receptacle compartment 174.

In the illustrated embodiment, the main bag 150 has a preferential tear zone 178 so that a user can open the main bag at the top edge 154 without necessarily opening the bag across its entire top edge. As depicted in FIG. 16, a preferential cut 180 is provided in a side of the main bag 150 spaced from the top edge 154. Preferably the sealed portion of the top edge 154 extends downwardly to surround the preferential cut 180 and maintain a seal about the cut 180. Another portion of the top edge seal spaced from the preferential cut 180 may depend from the top edge and be aligned with the cut 180 so as to function as a stop 182 when a user tears the bag transversely at the cut 180. As such, and as depicted in FIG. 18, the user can selectively open only a portion of the top edge of the main bag 150, thus providing a manageable opening through which fresh seeds 32 can be poured.

With continued reference to FIG. 16, in the illustrated embodiment the top edge 154 includes a hang aperture 188 through which a hanger member 190 extends. The hanger member 190 preferably has a block member 192 configured to prevent the hanger member 190 from sliding uninhibited through the aperture 188. The illustrated hanger member 190 has a first portion 194 and a second portion 194. The first hanger portion 194 is configured specifically to accommodate hanging the snack food container 149 from a hook or bar of a typical retail hanging display apparatus. The second hanger portion 196 preferably comprises an extension portion 198 that is relatively large compared to the first hanger portion 194 and a hook portion 200 depending from the extension portion 198. Although the hook portion 200 is depicted as straight in the illustrated embodiment, it is to be understood that various shapes, including a curved shape, can be employed in various embodiments as desired. The hook portion 200 can be configured to attach to various structures including, for example, a chain-link fence or the like. It is also to be understood that, in additional embodiments, a hanger member having similar or different structure can be attached to any part of the bag-based snack food container 149 as desired, such as by being adhered to the bag, and can also take on any of several shapes and sizes. In other embodiments an attachment member such as the attachment member discussed in connection with FIGS. 12 and 13 can be attached to the main bag.

With reference next to FIG. 19, in another embodiment the lid 80 may have a thickened portion 210 about its rim 60. More specifically, the thickened portion 210 about and adjacent the lid rim 60 may enhance rigidity of the lid 80 and snack food container 30 when the lid 80 is attached thereto. In the illustrated embodiment, the thickened portion 210 extends about the entire circumference of the lid 80 at and adjacent the circumferential edge 86. In the illustrated embodiment, the thickened portion 210 of the lid is offset upwardly from the rest of the lid top portion 84. As such an offset surface 212 is defined along an inner diameter of the thickened portion 210. Also in the illustrated embodiment, the offset surface 212 curves about the first radius of curvature 102 and is thus aligned with the first curved edge 100 of the lid aperture 90.

With reference next to FIG. 20, in another embodiment, the lid 80 may still include the aperture 90, but may also include a hinged door 220 for selectively closing the aperture. In some such embodiments, the snack food container can be provided without, for example, the upper seal. Alternatively, an embodiment employing such a lid 80 may be initially sold with an upper seal in place, but the closable lid will enable the snack food container to be closed without having to retain the upper seal. Although the door 220 can take on various shapes and sizes, in the illustrated embodiment the door 220 is co-formed with the polymer-based lid, and the aperture includes a seat 222 configured to receive the door 220, and preferably having one or more small tabs (not shown) for removably holding the door in a closed position.

It is to be appreciated that other embodiments may include lids having still further structural configurations. For example, in some embodiments the lid may include a second aperture, and the door (hinged, rotatable, removable, or otherwise configured) can alternatively close one or the other of the apertures. Also, in another embodiment, a lid aperture aligned with the container compartment opening can be smaller than a lid aperture aligned with the receptacle compartment opening.

The embodiments discussed above have disclosed structures with substantial specificity. This has provided a good context for disclosing and discussing inventive subject matter. However, it is to be understood that other embodiments may employ different specific structural shapes and interactions.

Although inventive subject matter has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred or illustrated embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the inventive subject matter extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number of variations of the disclosed embodiments have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of the inventive subject matter, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the inventive subject matter. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed inventive subject matter. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the inventive subject matter herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.

Claims

1. A snack food container, comprising:

an elongated body extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the body being closed at the distal end and having a proximal opening defined at the proximal end, the proximal end having a substantially circular circumferential rim, the body defining a cavity;

a divider within the elongated body, the divider dividing the cavity into a first and a second compartment;

a lid comprising a top portion and a flange that depends from an edge of the top portion, the lid being removably attachable to the circumferential rim so that the flange engages the circumferential rim; and

an aperture formed through the lid, the aperture defined by a back edge, a primary curved edge portion and a secondary curved edge portion, the primary curved edge portion being arcuate about a first radius of curvature, the secondary curved edge portion being arcuate about a second radius of curvature;

wherein the aperture is sized and configured to align with one or the other of the first and second compartments.

2. A snack food container as in claim 1, wherein the second radius of curvature is less than the first radius of curvature.

3. A snack food container as in claim 2, wherein the second radius of curvature is between 0.6 and 1.25 inches.

4. A snack food container as in claim 2, wherein the second radius of curvature approximates the average curvature of a human bottom lip.

5. A snack food container as in claim 2, wherein the primary curved edge portion comprises first and second primary curved edge portions, and wherein the secondary curved edge portion is arranged between the first and second primary curved edge portions.

6. A snack food container as in claim 1 additionally comprising a removable flexible seal attached to the circumferential rim, wherein a portion of the seal is sandwiched between the flange and the circumferential rim.

7. A snack food container as in claim 6, wherein the seal comprises a tab extending from an edge of the seal, and the seal is positioned on the circumferential rim so that the tab is aligned with the divider.

8. A snack food container as in claim 7, wherein a base of the seal is defined diametrically opposite the tab, and an adhesive layer is interposed between the circumferential rim and the seal to bond the seal to the rim, and wherein the adhesive layer is configured to exert a stronger bond between the base of the seal and the circumferential rim than elsewhere between the seal and the circumferential rim.

9. A snack food container as in claim 1, wherein an upper edge of the divider extends proximally beyond the circumferential rim.

10. A snack food container as in claim 1 additionally comprising an attachment member on the body, the attachment member comprising a hook.

11. A snack food container as in claim 10, wherein the hook is selectively movable relative to the body, and the hook is configured to be engagable with a structure so that the snack food container can be supported by the hook in a hanging configuration.

12. A bag-based snack food container, comprising:

a main bag formed of a flexible polymer and defining a primary compartment for containing seeds; and

a secondary bag formed of a flexible polymer and bonded to an outer surface of the main bag, the secondary bag having a tab that is releasably adhered to the outer surface of the main bag;

wherein in a first configuration the secondary bag is folded flat onto the outer surface of the main bag and the tab is adhered to the outer surface of the main bag;

wherein in a second configuration the tab is detached from the outer surface of the main bag and the secondary bag is unfolded so as to define a secondary compartment for containing skins, a secondary compartment opening being defined adjacent the tab; and

wherein in a third configuration the secondary bag remains unfolded and the tab is adhered to the outer surface of the main bag so as to close the secondary compartment.

13. A bag-based snack food container as in claim 12 additionally comprising a hanger member attached to the container, the hanger member comprising a hook portion configured to engage a chain-link fence so the container can be hung from a chain-link fence.

14. A method of eating seeds and disposing of skins, comprising:

a user grasping an elongated body that encloses a cavity separated by a divider into a primary compartment and a secondary compartment, a plurality of seeds being provided in the primary compartment, the body having a circular proximal rim and a lid arranged atop the rim, the lid having an aperture defined by a back edge, a primary curved edge portion and a secondary curved edge portion, the primary curved edge portion being arcuate about a first radius of curvature, the secondary curved edge portion being arcuate about a second radius of curvature;

the user aligning the aperture with the primary compartment;

the user lifting the body and pressing the user's bottom lip to the lid adjacent the secondary curved edge portion; and

the user tilting the body so that seeds dispense through the aperture into the user's mouth.

15. A method as in claim 14 additionally comprising the user rotating the lid about the rim so that the aperture is aligned with the secondary compartment, the user lifting the body, and the user dispensing discarded skins from the user's mouth into the secondary compartment.

16. A method as in claim 15 additionally comprising the user removing the lid, at least partially removing a flexible seal from the rim, and replacing the lid onto the rim.

17. A method as in claim 16 additionally comprising the user removing the lid after dispensing discarded skins from the user's mouth into the secondary compartment, replacing the flexible seal onto the rim, and replacing the lid onto the rim so that at least a portion of the flexible seal is sandwiched between the lid and the rim.

18. A method as in claim 14, wherein the body comprises a hook member, and additionally comprising extending the hook member onto a structure and hanging the body from the structure.

19. A method as in claim 19 additionally comprising unfolding the hook member from the body.