SUSTAINABLE AND RECYCLEABLE PACKAGING, PACKAGES, AND CONTAINERS
Disclosed herein are packages such as containers. A container includes a container body including at least one container body interlocking component, a closure configured to refittably attach to the container body, and a shell including at least one shell interlocking component configured to at least diametrically and vertically interference separably fit with the at least one container body interlocking component.
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This disclosure relates to packaging and in particular, containers having sustainability and built-in recyclability.
BACKGROUNDPlastic containers are difficult to recycle and use materials that are not environmentally friendly. Moreover, they are not easily separable for recycling processing.
SUMMARYDisclosed herein are methods and systems for sustainable and recyclable packaging and packages.
In implementations, a container includes a container body including at least one container body interlocking component, a closure configured to refittably attach to the container body, and a shell including at least one shell interlocking component configured to at least diametrically and vertically interference separably fit with the at least one container body interlocking component
The disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and are incorporated into and thus constitute a part of this specification. It is emphasized that, according to common practice, the various features of the drawings are not to-scale. On the contrary, the dimensions of the various features are arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity.
The figures and descriptions provided herein may be simplified to illustrate aspects of the described embodiments that are relevant for a clear understanding of the herein disclosed processes, machines, manufactures, and/or compositions of matter, while eliminating for the purpose of clarity other aspects that may be found in typical similar devices, systems, compositions and methods. Those of ordinary skill may thus recognize that other elements and/or steps may be desirable or necessary to implement the devices, systems, compositions, and methods described herein. However, because such elements and steps are well known in the art, and because they do not facilitate a better understanding of the disclosed embodiments, a discussion of such elements and steps may not be provided herein. However, the present disclosure is deemed to inherently include all such elements, variations, and modifications to the described aspects that would be known to those of ordinary skill in the pertinent art in light of the discussion herein.
Embodiments are provided throughout so that this disclosure is sufficiently thorough and fully conveys the scope of the disclosed embodiments to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth, such as examples of specific aspects, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. Nevertheless, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain specific disclosed details need not be employed, and that embodiments may be embodied in different forms. As such, the exemplary embodiments set forth should not be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. For example, as used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
The steps, processes, and operations described herein are thus not to be construed as necessarily requiring their respective performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as a preferred or required order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed, in place of or in conjunction with the disclosed aspects.
Yet further, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, steps or aspects, these elements, steps or aspects should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element or aspect from another. Thus, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, step, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, step, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.
The non-limiting embodiments described herein are with respect to packages, including but not limited to, containers. The packages and methods for making the packages may be modified for a variety of applications and uses while remaining within the spirit and scope of the claims. The embodiments and variations described herein, and/or shown in the drawings, are presented by way of example only and are not limiting as to the scope and spirit. The descriptions herein may be applicable to all embodiments of the packages and the methods for making the packages.
Disclosed herein are implementations of sustainable and recyclable packaging. The implementations shown are illustrative and other implementations are within the scope of the specification and claims described herein. For purposes of illustration, certain aspects, features, and the like are described with respect to implementations. These aspects, features, and the like are appropriately applicable to and interchangeable with other implementations described herein.
In implementations, the containers can use injection molding (IM), in-mold labeling (IML), die cutting, compression blow molding, thermoform molding, and the like processing (collectively “structure forming process”) to form a frame, ribbed frame, vertical frame, cap, closure, neck, collar structure, container body, container body liner, and the like (collectively “structure” or “molded part or portion”) of the container. In implementations, injection molding (IM), in-mold labeling (IML), heat, induction, mechanical, staking, ultrasonic, and adhesive or chemical bonding (collectively “join processing”) can be used to fuse, weld, or bond (collectively “fuse”) the structure with a label, film, shell, seal, and/or the like (collectively “flexible part’) to create a container which can hold content or materials. In implementations, the fusing can include application of pressure, temperature, and/or combinations thereof. In implementations, the container is an integrally, hermetically sealed package. In implementations, the container can be configured to contain liquid or non-dry content or materials.
In implementations, the structure is fused with the flexible part using the join processing to create the container. The fusing of the flexible part with the structure results in edge(s) of the flexible part being intermingled, impregnated, encapsulated, embedded, or coated with the material of the structure to form a sealed edge at junctions between the structure and the flexible part. The sealed edges prevent leakage of content from the container.
In implementations, the structure or molded part or portion can be made from polymers, sustainable materials, recyclable materials, biodegradable materials, bio-based resins, weight-optimized biodegradable plastic, paperboard, pressed pulp, fiber based, pressed fiber, paper, starch, cellulose, recycled plastic film, metals, metalized film, biodegradable resins such as Polylactic acid (PLA), Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), Polyethylene Furanoate (PEF), High Density Poly Ethylene (HDPE), and the like (collectively “structure forming materials”).
In implementations, the frame, ribbed frame, and/or vertical frame (collectively “frame”) can have a rectangular, square, oval, circular, and/or like profile or footprint. In implementations, the frame can have any number of legs or ribs connecting a base portion and a neck portion. In implementations, the shell can have a rectangular, square, oval, circular, and/or like profile or footprint.
In implementations, the flexible part can be or can be made from heavy film, paperboard, pressed pulp, compostable coated paper, recyclable materials, sustainable materials, degradable materials, biodegradable materials, fiber, compressed fiber, and the like (collectively “flexible forming materials”). In implementations, the flexible part can include a barrier layer or film on an internal or inside surface, where the barrier layer is substantially impervious to the content or material in the fusion package and substantially chemically inert with respect to the content or material in the container. In implementations, the barrier layer can be one or more of an oxygen barrier, a moisture barrier, a grease barrier, a gas barrier, an oil barrier, and other barrier relevant to the content or material. In implementations, the flexible part can be an integrated or integrally formed barrier layer or film with the flexible forming materials.
In implementations, the containers and/or the components of the containers can be of structure forming material and/or flexible material construction, which can be sustainable materials, recyclable materials, degradable materials, degradable plastic, biodegradable materials, bio-based resins, and/or weight-optimized biodegradable plastic. The containers and/or the components of the containers can efficiently use recyclable, biodegradable, and the like materials for improved sustainability.
The containers and components thereof described herein provide structural integrity to the package at minimal weight cost and permits the container to flex, stretch, and the like during pressure and temperature variations. The containers and components thereof are stackable and nestable during shipping. The containers can efficiently use recyclable, biodegradable, and the like materials for improved sustainability.
In implementations, the containers can implement any combination of interlocking elements or components described herein to mechanically fuse the container body and the shell. In implementations, one or more interlocking elements or components can be used to mechanically fuse the container body and the shell. In implementations, the containers can implement any combination of interlocking elements or components described herein to mechanically fuse the container body and the shell to enable separation for recycling and sustainability. That is, the containers or components thereof are separably fused.
The closure 1100 includes a threaded, interference fit, or press fit (collectively “refittable”) collar or closure collar 1110 and a lid 1120. The closure collar 1110 is a structure The lid 1120 can made from flexible forming materials as described herein. The lid 1120 can have a barrier layer on an internal surface or content facing surface as described herein. The lid 1120 can be fused to the closure collar 1110 as described herein. In implementations, the closure 1100 can be a tethered closure. In implementations, the closure 1100 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein.
The shell 1200 includes a side 1210 ending in a base 1220. In implementations, the base 1220 includes an interlocking aperture 1222. The interlocking aperture 1222 can be a n-sided polygon, a slot-type shape, or shapes which enable placement and anti-rotation or anti-torque with respect to the container body 1300 as described herein. In implementations, the shell 1200 can be made from flexible forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein.
The container body 1300 includes a frame 1310 and a sidewall 1320. The frame 1310 includes a base 1312, a neck 1314, and legs 1318 for connecting the base 1312 and the neck 1314. The base 1312 includes an interlocking protrusion 1313 matching or corresponding to the interlocking aperture 1222. The neck 1314 includes a counterpart refittable section 1315 for engaging with the closure collar 1110. In implementations, the neck 1314 includes a shelf section 1316 for vertical placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 1200 as described herein. In implementations, the neck 1314 includes protrusions 1317 for diametric placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 1200 as described herein. In implementations, the sidewall 1320 can be made from flexible forming materials as described herein. In implementations, the sidewall 1320 can include a barrier layer or film on an internal or inside surface. In implementations, the sidewall 1320 can include an integrated barrier layer, film, and/or material. In implementations, the frame 1310 can be made from structure forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein. In implementations, an interior or inner surface of the frame 1310 can be coated with a barrier layer. In implementations, the frame 1310 can be tapered as illustrated in
Operationally, join processing is used to fuse the frame 1310 and the sidewall 1320 to form the container body 1300. The container body 1300 and the shell 1200 are fused mechanically by diametric interference fit between the protrusions 1317 and the side 1210 of the shell 1200 and by vertical interference fit between the shelf section 1316 and the side 1210 of the shell 1200. In implementations, mechanical fusing is further provided by placement of the interlocking protrusion 1313 into the interlocking aperture 1222. In implementations, mechanical fusing is further provided by fusing the film 1400 to the interlocked interlocking protrusion 1313 as fitted with the interlocking aperture 1222 as shown in
The closure 4100 includes a threaded, interference fit, or press fit (collectively “refittable”) collar or closure collar 4110 and a lid 4120. The closure collar 4110 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The lid 4120 can made from flexible forming materials as described herein. The lid 4120 can have a barrier layer on an internal surface or content facing surface as described herein. The lid 4120 can be fused to the closure collar 4110 as described herein. In implementations, the closure 4100 can be a tethered closure. In implementations, the closure 4100 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein.
The shell 4200 includes a side 4210 ending in a base 4220. In implementations, the base 4220 includes an interlocking aperture 4222. The interlocking aperture 4222 can be a n-sided polygon, a slot-type shape, or shapes which enable placement and anti-rotation or anti-torque with respect to the container body 4300 as described herein. In implementations, the shell 4200 can be made from flexible forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein.
The container body 4300 includes a base 4310, a neck 4320, and a side 4330 for connecting the base 4310 and the neck 4320. The base 4310 includes an interlocking protrusion 4313 matching or corresponding to the interlocking aperture 4222. The neck 4320 includes a counterpart refittable section 4322 for engaging with the closure collar 4110. In implementations, the neck 4320 includes a shelf section 4324 for vertical placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 4200 as described herein. In implementations, the neck 4320 includes protrusions 4326 for diametric placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 4200 as described herein. In implementations, some of the protrusions 4326 are elongated protrusions 4327 which provide spacing between the shell 4200 and the container body 4300. In implementations, the container body 4300 can be made from structure forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein. In implementations, the container body 4300 can be coated with or include a barrier layer or film on an internal or inside surface. In implementations, the container body 4300 can include an integrated barrier layer, film, and/or material. In implementations, the container body 4300 can be tapered as illustrated in
Operationally, the container body 4300 and the shell 4200 are fused mechanically by diametric interference fit between the protrusions 4326 and the side 4210 of the shell 4200 and by vertical interference fit between the shelf section 4324 and the side 4210 of the shell 4200. In implementations, mechanical fusing is further provided by placement of the interlocking protrusion 4313 into the interlocking aperture 4222. In implementations, mechanical fusing is further provided by fusing the film 4400 to the interlocked interlocking protrusion 4313 as fitted with the interlocking aperture 4222 as shown in
The closure 7100 includes a threaded, interference fit, or press fit (collectively “refittable”) collar or closure collar 7110 and a lid 7120. The closure collar 7110 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The lid 7120 can made from flexible forming materials as described herein. The lid 7120 can have a barrier layer on an internal surface or content facing surface as described herein. The lid 7120 can be fused to the closure collar 7110 as described herein. In implementations, the closure 7100 can be a tethered closure. In implementations, the closure 7100 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein.
The shell 7200 includes a side 7210 ending in a base 7220. In implementations, the shell 7200 can be made from flexible forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein.
The container body 7300 includes a frame 7310 and a sidewall 7320. The frame 7310 includes a base 7312, a neck 7314, and legs 7318 for connecting the base 7312 and the neck 7314. The neck 7314 includes a counterpart refittable section 7315 for engaging with the closure collar 7110. In implementations, the neck 7314 includes a shelf section 7316 for vertical placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 7200 as described herein. In implementations, the neck 7314 includes protrusions 7317 for diametric placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 7200 as described herein. In implementations, the sidewall 7320 can be made from flexible forming materials as described herein. In implementations, the sidewall 7320 can include a barrier layer or film on an internal or inside surface. In implementations, the sidewall 7320 can include an integrated barrier layer, film, and/or material. In implementations, the frame 7310 can be made from structure forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein. In implementations, an interior or inner surface of the frame 7310 can be coated with a barrier layer. In implementations, the frame 7310 can be tapered as illustrated in
The interlocking band 7400 is an adhesive band which can be placed around and in the junction between the shell 7200 and the container body 7300 to adhesively fuse the shell 7200 and the container body 7300. The interlocking band 7400 can further provide anti-rotation and anti-torque as between the shell 7200 and the container body 7300.
Operationally, join processing is used to fuse the frame 7310 and the sidewall 7320 to form the container body 7300. The container body 7300 and the shell 7200 are fused mechanically by diametric interference fit between the protrusions 7317 and the side 7210 of the shell 7200 and by vertical interference fit between the shelf section 7316 and the side 7210 of the shell 7200. In implementations, mechanical fusing is further provided by the interlocking band 7400 which provides adhesive fusing between the shell 7200 and the container body 7300 as shown in
The closure 10100 includes a threaded, interference fit, or press fit (collectively “refittable”) collar or closure collar 10110 and a lid 10120. The closure collar 10110 is a structure The lid 10120 can made from flexible forming materials as described herein. The lid 10120 can have a barrier layer on an internal surface or content facing surface as described herein. The lid 10120 can be fused to the closure collar 10110 as described herein. In implementations, the closure 10100 can be a tethered closure. In implementations, the closure 10100 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein.
The shell 10200 includes a side 10210 ending in a base 10220. In implementations, the shell 10200 can be made from flexible forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein.
The container body 10300 includes a base 10310, a neck 10320, and a side 10330 for connecting the base 10310 and the neck 10320. The neck 10320 includes a counterpart refittable section 10322 for engaging with the closure collar 10110. In implementations, the neck 10320 includes a shelf section 10324 for vertical placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 10200 as described herein. In implementations, the neck 10320 includes protrusions 10326 for diametric placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 10200 as described herein. In implementations, the container body 10300 can be made from structure forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein. In implementations, the container body 10300 can be coated with or include a barrier layer or film on an internal or inside surface. In implementations, the container body 10300 can include an integrated barrier layer, film, and/or material. In implementations, the container body 10300 can be tapered as illustrated in
The interlocking band 12400 is an adhesive band which can be placed around and in the junction between the shell 12200 and the container body 12300 to adhesively fuse the shell 12200 and the container body 12300. The interlocking band 12400 can further provide anti-rotation and anti-torque as between the shell 12200 and the container body 12300.
Operationally, the container body 12300 and the shell 12200 are fused mechanically by diametric interference fit between the protrusions 12326 and the side 12210 of the shell 12200 and by vertical interference fit between the shelf section 12324 and the side 12210 of the shell 12200. In implementations, mechanical fusing is further provided by the interlocking band 12400 which provides adhesive fusing between the shell 12200 and the container body 12300 as shown in FIG. 12C, which shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the container 12000 in accordance with implementations. In implementations, the lid 12120 can be fused to the closure collar 12110 and the closure 12100 can be attached to the container body 12300 after placement of contents in the container 12000. In implementations, the closure 12100 can be attached to the container body 12300 and the lid 12120 can be fused to the closure collar 12110 after placement of contents in the container. After usage of the contents in the container 12000, the interlocking band 12400 can be pulled off, and the shell 12200 and the container body 12300 can be separated for recycling.
The closure 13100 includes a threaded, interference fit, or press fit (collectively “refittable”) collar or closure collar 13110 and a lid 13120. The closure collar 13110 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The lid 13120 can made from flexible forming materials as described herein. The lid 13120 can have a barrier layer on an internal surface or content facing surface as described herein. The lid 13120 can be fused to the closure collar 13110 as described herein. In implementations, the closure 13100 can be a tethered closure. In implementations, the closure 13100 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein.
The shell 13200 includes a side 13210 ending in a base 13220. In implementations, the shell 13200 can be made from flexible forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein.
The container body 13300 includes a frame 13310 and a sidewall 13320. The sidewall 13320 is internal to the frame 13310 to provide a smooth interior finish to the container 13000. The frame 13310 includes a base 13312, a neck 13314, and legs 13318 for connecting the base 13312 and the neck 13314. The neck 13314 includes a counterpart refittable section 13315 for engaging with the closure collar 13110. In implementations, the neck 13314 includes a shelf section 13316 for vertical placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 13200 as described herein. In implementations, the neck 13314 includes protrusions 13317 for diametric placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 13200 as described herein. In implementations, the sidewall 13320 can be made from flexible forming materials as described herein. In implementations, the sidewall 13320 can include a barrier layer or film on an internal or inside surface. In implementations, the sidewall 13320 can include an integrated barrier layer, film, and/or material. In implementations, the frame 13310 can be made from structure forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein. In implementations, an interior or inner surface of the frame 13310 can be coated with a barrier layer. In implementations, the frame 13310 can be tapered as illustrated in
The interlocking band 13400 is an adhesive band which can be placed around and in the junction between the shell 13200 and the container body 13300 to adhesively fuse the shell 13200 and the container body 13300. The interlocking band 13400 can further provide anti-rotation and anti-torque as between the shell 13200 and the container body 13300.
Operationally, join processing is used to fuse the frame 13310 and the sidewall 13320 to form the container body 13300. The container body 13300 and the shell 13200 are fused mechanically by diametric interference fit between the protrusions 13317 and the side 13210 of the shell 13200 and by vertical interference fit between the shelf section 13316 and the side 13210 of the shell 13200. In implementations, mechanical fusing is further provided by the interlocking band 13400 which provides adhesive fusing between the shell 13200 and the container body 13300 as shown in
The closure 16100 includes a threaded, interference fit, or press fit (collectively “refittable”) collar or closure collar 16110 and a lid 16120. The closure collar 16110 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The lid 16120 can made from flexible forming materials as described herein. The lid 16120 can have a barrier layer on an internal surface or content facing surface as described herein. The lid 16120 can be fused to the closure collar 16110 as described herein. In implementations, the closure 16100 can be a tethered closure. In implementations, the closure 16100 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein.
The shell 16200 includes a side 16210 ending in a base 16220. In implementations, the shell 16200 can be made from flexible forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein.
The container body 16300 includes a frame 16310 and a sidewall 16320. The frame 16310 includes a base 16312, a neck 16314, and legs 16318 for connecting the base 16312 and the neck 16314. The neck 16314 includes a counterpart refittable section 16315 for engaging with the closure collar 16110. The neck 16314 includes an interlocking shelf section 16316 for engaging and fitting with the shell 16200 as described herein. The interlocking shelf section 16316 provides both diametric and vertical interference placement and fit for the shell 16200. As shown in
In implementations, the label 16400 can be made from flexible forming materials as described herein. In implementations, the label 16400 can be adhesively fused to the shell 16200. In implementations, the label 16400 can be wrap fused to the shell 16200. In implementations, the label 16400 can be peelable from the shell 16200. In implementations, the label 16400 can include perforated lines 164100 for removal from the shell 16200. The label 16400 is applicable to each of the implementations described herein.
Operationally, join processing is used to fuse the frame 16310 and the sidewall 16320 to form the container body 16300. The container body 16300 and the shell 16200 are fused mechanically by fitting or snap fitting an upper lip 18400 of the shell 16200 into the interlocking shelf section 16316, where the upper lip 18400 folds into and between (folded upper lip 18400′) the base 18000, the side 18100 and the lip 18200 as shown in
The closure 19100 includes a threaded, interference fit, or press fit (collectively “refittable”) collar or closure collar 19110 and a lid 19120. The closure collar 19110 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The lid 19120 can made from flexible forming materials as described herein. The lid 19120 can have a barrier layer on an internal surface or content facing surface as described herein. The lid 19120 can be fused to the closure collar 19110 as described herein. In implementations, the closure 19100 can be a tethered closure. In implementations, the closure 19100 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein.
The shell 19200 includes a side 19210 ending in a base 19220. In implementations, the shell 19200 can be made from flexible forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein.
The container body 19300 includes a base 19310, a neck 19320, and a side 19330 for connecting the base 19310 and the neck 19320. The neck 19320 includes a counterpart refittable section 19322 for engaging with the closure collar 19110. The neck 19320 includes an interlocking shelf section 19324 for engaging and fitting with the shell 19200 as described herein. The interlocking shelf section 19316 provides both diametric and vertical interference placement and fit for the shell 19200. As shown in
In implementations, the label 19400 can be made from flexible forming materials as described herein. In implementations, the label 16900 can be adhesively fused to the shell 19200. In implementations, the label 19400 can be wrap fused to the shell 19200. In implementations, the label 19400 can be peelable from the shell 19200. In implementations, the label 19400 can include perforated lines 19410 for removal from the shell 19200.
Operationally, the container body 19300 and the shell 19200 are fused mechanically by fitting or snap fitting an upper lip 21400 of the shell 19200 into the interlocking shelf section 19316, where the upper lip 21400 folds into and between (folded upper lip 21400′) the base 21000, the side 21100 and the lip 21200 as shown in
The closure 22100 includes a threaded, interference fit, or press fit (collectively “refittable”) collar or closure collar 22110 and a lid 22120. The closure collar 22110 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The lid 22120 can made from flexible forming materials as described herein. The lid 22120 can have a barrier layer on an internal surface or content facing surface as described herein. The lid 22120 can be fused to the closure collar 22110 as described herein. In implementations, the closure 22100 can be a tethered closure. In implementations, the closure 22100 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein.
The shell 22200 includes a side 22210 ending in a base 22220. In implementations, the base 22220 includes an interlocking aperture 22222. The interlocking aperture 22222 can be a n-sided polygon, a slot-type shape, or shapes which enable placement and anti-rotation or anti-torque with respect to the container body 22300 as described herein. In implementations, the shell 22200 can be made from flexible forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein.
The container body 22300 includes a frame 22310 and a sidewall 22320. The frame 22310 includes a base 22312, a neck 22314, and legs 22318 for connecting the base 22312 and the neck 22314. In implementations, the base 22312 includes an interlocking protrusion 22313 matching or corresponding to the interlocking aperture 22222. The neck 22314 includes a counterpart refittable section 22315 for engaging with the closure collar 22110. In implementations, the neck 22314 includes a shelf 22316 for vertical placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 22200 as described herein. In implementations, the neck 22314 includes protrusions 22317 for diametric placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 22200 as described herein. In implementations, the sidewall 22320 can be made from flexible forming materials as described herein. In implementations, the sidewall 22320 can include a barrier layer or film on an internal or inside surface. In implementations, the sidewall 22320 can include an integrated barrier layer, film, and/or material. In implementations, the frame 22310 can be made from structure forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein. In implementations, an interior or inner surface of the frame 22310 can be coated with a barrier layer. In implementations, the frame 22310 can be tapered as illustrated in
Operationally, join processing is used to fuse the frame 22310 and the sidewall 22320 to form the container body 22300. The container body 22300 and the shell 22200 are fused mechanically by diametric interference fit between the protrusions 22317 and the side 22210 of the shell 22200 and by vertical interference fit between the shelf section 22316 and the side 22210 of the shell 22200 by mechanically crimping an upper lip portion 24400 of the shell 22200 such that the upper lip portion 24400 folds around the protrusions 22317 and is crimped between the protrusions 22317 and the shelf section 22316 as shown in
The closure 25100 includes a threaded, interference fit, or press fit (collectively “refittable”) collar or closure collar 25110 and a lid 25120. The closure collar 25110 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The lid 25120 can made from flexible forming materials as described herein. The lid 25120 can have a barrier layer on an internal surface or content facing surface as described herein. The lid 25120 can be fused to the closure collar 25110 as described herein. In implementations, the closure 25100 can be a tethered closure. In implementations, the closure 25100 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein.
The shell 25200 includes a side 25210 ending in a base 25220. In implementations, the base 25220 includes an interlocking aperture 25222. The interlocking aperture 25222 can be a n-sided polygon, a slot-type shape, or shapes which enable placement and anti-rotation or anti-torque with respect to the container body 25300 as described herein. In implementations, the shell 25200 can be made from flexible forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein.
The container body 25300 includes a base 25310, a neck 25320, and a side 25330 for connecting the base 25310 and the neck 25320. The base 25310 includes an interlocking protrusion 25313 matching or corresponding to the interlocking aperture 25222. The neck 25320 includes a counterpart refittable section 25322 for engaging with the closure collar 25110. In implementations, the neck 25320 includes a shelf section 25324 for vertical placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 25200 as described herein. In implementations, the neck 25320 includes protrusions 25326 for diametric placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 25200 as described herein. In implementations, the container body 25300 can be made from structure forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein. In implementations, the container body 25300 can be coated with or include a barrier layer or film on an internal or inside surface. In implementations, the container body 25300 can include an integrated barrier layer, film, and/or material. In implementations, the container body 25300 can be tapered as illustrated in
Operationally, the container body 25300 and the shell 25200 are fused mechanically by diametric interference fit between the shelf section 25324 and the side 25210 of the shell 25200 by mechanically crimping an upper lip portion 27400 of the shell 25200 such that the upper lip portion 27400 folds around the protrusions 25326 and is crimped between the protrusions 25326 and the shelf section 25324 as shown in
The closure 28100 includes a threaded, interference fit, or press fit (collectively “refittable”) collar or closure collar 28110 and a lid 28120. The closure collar 28110 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The lid 28120 can made from flexible forming materials as described herein. The lid 28120 can have a barrier layer on an internal surface or content facing surface as described herein. The lid 28120 can be fused to the closure collar 28110 as described herein. In implementations, the closure 28100 can be a tethered closure. In implementations, the closure 28100 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein.
The shell 28200 includes a side 28210 ending in a base 28220. In implementations, the base 28220 includes an interlocking aperture 28222. The interlocking aperture 28222 can be a n-sided polygon, a slot-type shape, or shapes which enable placement and anti-rotation or anti-torque with respect to the container body 28300 as described herein. In implementations, the shell 28200 includes a tearstrip 28230 on the side 28210 and the base 28220 for separating or removing the shell 28200 for recycling as described herein. The tearstrip 28230 can be implemented in any of the implementations described herein. In implementations, the shell 28200 can be made from flexible forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein.
The container body 28300 includes a base 28310, a neck 28320, and a side 28330 for connecting the base 28310 and the neck 28320. The base 28310 includes an interlocking protrusion 28313 matching or corresponding to the interlocking aperture 28222. The neck 28320 includes a counterpart refittable section 28322 for engaging with the closure collar 28110. In implementations, the neck 28320 includes a shelf section 28324 for vertical placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 28200 as described herein. In implementations, the neck 28320 includes protrusions 28326 for diametric placement and/or interference fitting with the shell 28200 as described herein. In implementations, the container body 28300 can be made from structure forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein. In implementations, the container body 28300 can be coated with or include a barrier layer or film on an internal or inside surface. In implementations, the container body 28300 can include an integrated barrier layer, film, and/or material. In implementations, the container body 28300 can be tapered, substantially straight, straight, or combinations thereof.
Operationally, the container body 28300 and the shell 28200 are fused mechanically by diametric interference fit between the protrusions 28326 and the side 28210 of the shell 28200 and by vertical interference fit between the shelf section 28324 and the side 28210 of the shell 28200. In implementations, mechanical fusing is further provided by placement of the interlocking protrusion 28313 into the interlocking aperture 28222. In implementations, mechanical fusing is further provided by fusing the film 28400 to the interlocked interlocking protrusion 28313 as fitted with the interlocking aperture 28222. In implementations, the film 28400 is fused to the interlocked interlocking protrusion 28313 as fitted with the interlocking aperture 28222 and not to the shell 28200 or base 28220. In implementations, the level of fusing between the film 28400 and the interlocked interlocking protrusion 28313 as fitted with the interlocking aperture 28222 is different than the fusing with respect to the shell 28200 or base 28220. That is, the fusing with the interlocking aperture 28222 is greater than the fusing with respect to the shell 28200 or base 28220. In implementations, the lid 28120 can be fused to the closure collar 28110 and the closure 28100 can be attached to the container body 28300 after placement of contents in the container 28000. In implementations, the closure 28100 can be attached to the container body 28300 and the lid 28120 can be fused to the closure collar 28110 after placement of contents in the container 28000. After usage of the contents in the container 28000, the film 28400 can be pulled off, the tearstrip 28300 can be pulled off and the shell 28200 and the container body 28300 can be separated for recycling.
The container 30000 includes a closure 30100, a shell 30200, and a container body 30300. In implementations, the container 300000 can include a film 30400. In implementations, the film 30400 is peelable.
The closure 30100 includes a threaded, interference fit, or press fit (collectively “refittable”) collar or closure collar 30110 and a lid 30120. The closure collar 30110 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The lid 30120 can made from flexible forming materials as described herein. The lid 30120 can have a barrier layer on an internal surface or content facing surface as described herein. The lid 30120 can be fused to the closure collar 30110 as described herein. In implementations, the closure 30100 can be a tethered closure. In implementations, the closure 30100 is a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein.
The shell 30200 includes a side 30210 ending in a base 30220. In implementations, the base 30220 includes an interlocking aperture 30222. The interlocking aperture 30222 can be a n-sided polygon, a slot-type shape, or shapes which enable placement and anti-rotation or anti-torque with respect to the container body 30300 as described herein. In implementations, the shell 30200 can be made from flexible forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein.
The container body 30300 includes a base 30310, a neck 30320, and a side 30330 for connecting the base 30310 and the neck 30320. The base 30310 includes an interlocking protrusion 30313 matching or corresponding to the interlocking aperture 30222. The neck 30320 includes a counterpart refittable section 30322 for engaging with the closure collar 30110. In implementations, the neck 30320 includes an annular ring 30324 for placement retention in the shell 30200 via diametric and/or interference fitting with the shell 30200 as described herein. The annular ring 30324 includes a protrusion 30325 extending substantially perpendicular from the neck 30320 and a tapered section 30326 extending downward from the protrusion 30325. The protrusion 30325 extends out a distance substantially in alignment with the side 30210 of the shell 30200. The tapered section 30326 extends angularly downward toward the shell 30200 and bends back toward the neck 30320, presenting a non-blunt surface 30327 for engagement with an inner surface 30212 of the side 30210 of the shell 30200. The non-blunt surface 30327 mitigates damage to the shell 30200. The tapered section 30326 is a malleable and flexible structure for interference fit with the shell 30200 and removal from the shell 30200. In implementations, the container body 20300 can be made from structure forming materials using the structure forming processes as described herein. In implementations, the container body 30300 can be coated with or include a barrier layer or film on an internal or inside surface. In implementations, the container body 30300 can include an integrated barrier layer, film, and/or material.
Operationally, the container body 30300 and the shell 30200 are fused mechanically by diametric interference fit between the annular ring 30324 and the side 20210 of the shell 30200 by having the tapered section 30326 flex inwardly toward the container body 30300. The diametric and interference fit results in a tight but releasable fit with the shell 30200. In implementations, mechanical fusing is further provided by placement of the interlocking protrusion 30313 into the interlocking aperture 30222. In implementations, mechanical fusing is further provided by fusing the film 30400 to the interlocked interlocking protrusion 30313 as fitted with the interlocking aperture 30222. In implementations, the film 30400 is fused to the interlocked interlocking protrusion 30313 as fitted with the interlocking aperture 30222 and not to the shell 30200 or base 30220. In implementations, the level of fusing between the film 30400 and the interlocked interlocking protrusion 30313 as fitted with the interlocking aperture 30222 is different than the fusing with respect to the shell 30200 or base 30220. That is, the fusing with the interlocking aperture 30222 is greater than the fusing with respect to the shell 30200 or base 30220. In implementations, the lid 30120 can be fused to the closure collar 30110 and the closure 30100 can be attached to the container body 30300 after placement of contents in the container. In implementations, the closure 30100 can be attached to the container body 30300 and the lid 30120 can be fused to the closure collar 30110 after placement of contents in the container. After usage of the contents in the container 30000, the film 30400 can be pulled off and the shell 30200 and the container body 30300 can be separated for recycling.
The construction and arrangement of the methods as 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 and components, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, 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. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
Although the figures may show a specific order of method steps, the order of the steps may differ from what is depicted. Also two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variation will depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.
While the disclosure has been described in connection with certain embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as is permitted under the law.
Claims
1. A container comprising:
- a container body including at least one container body interlocking component;
- a closure configured to refittably attach to the container body; and
- a shell including at least one shell interlocking component configured to at least diametrically and vertically interference separably fit with the at least one container body interlocking component.
2. The container of claim 1, wherein:
- the at least one container body interlocking component is an interlocking shelf; and
- the at least one shell interlocking component is an upper lip of the shell which fits and folds into the interlocking shelf.
3. The container of claim 1, wherein:
- the at least one container body interlocking component is a plurality of protrusions on a neck of the container body and a shelf extending from the neck; and
- the at least one shell interlocking component is an upper lip of the shell which is mechanically crimped between the plurality of protrusions and the shelf.
4. (canceled)
5. The container of claim 1, wherein:
- the at least one container body interlocking component is an interlocking protrusion extending from a base of the container body; and
- the at least one shell interlocking component is an interlocking aperture in a base of the shell where the interlocking protrusion fits within the interlocking aperture to prevent rotation and torque as between the container body and the shell.
6. The container of claim 5, wherein the interlocking protrusion and the interlocking aperture are an n-sided polygon.
7. The container of claim 5, wherein the interlocking protrusion and the interlocking aperture are a slot.
8. The container of claim 5, further comprising:
- an interlocking band for adhesively connecting the container body and the shell.
9. (canceled)
10. The container of claim 8, wherein the shell includes a tearstrip.
11. The container of claim 10, wherein the container body is a one piece structure.
12. The container of claim 10, wherein the container body includes a frame and a sidewall which is fused to the frame.
13. The container of claim 12, wherein the sidewall is fused to an external surface of the frame.
14. The container of claim 12, wherein the sidewall is fused to an internal surface of the frame.
15. The container of claim 14, further comprising:
- a label configured for attachment to the interconnected interlocking protrusion and the shell.
16. The container of claim 15, wherein content facing surfaces of the container include or are coated with a barrier layer substantially chemically inert with contents.
17. The container of claim 16, wherein the closure includes a closure collar and a lid which is fused to the closure collar.
18. The container of claim 16, wherein the closure is a one piece molded structure.
19. The container of claim 17, further comprising:
- a label configured to wrap around the shell, wherein the label is one of peelable or includes a tearstrip.
20. (canceled)
21. (canceled)
22. (canceled)
23. A container comprising:
- a container body including at least one container body interlocking component;
- a closure configured to refittably attach to the container body; and
- a shell,
- wherein a container body interlocking component of the at least one container body interlocking component is configured to at least diametrically and vertically interference separably fit against a side of the shell.
24. The container of claim 23, wherein the container body interlocking component is an annular ring which further comprises:
- a perpendicular protrusion extending outwardly from a neck of the container body; and
- a tapered section extending downwardly from the perpendicular protrusion,
- wherein the tapered section is configured to flex to diametrically and interference fit with the shell.
25. The container of claim 24, further comprises:
- another container body interlocking component which is an interlocking protrusion extending from a base of the container body; and
- a shell interlocking aperture in a base of the shell,
- wherein the interlocking protrusion is configured to fit within the interlocking aperture to prevent rotation and torque as between the container body and the shell.
26. (canceled)
27. The container of claim 25, further comprises:
- a label configured for attachment to the interconnected interlocking protrusion and the shell, wherein a level of adhesion as between the label and the interconnected interlocking protrusion and the label and the shell are different.
28. (canceled)
29. The container of claim 27, wherein the interlocking protrusion and the interlocking aperture are one of an n-sided polygon or a slot.
30. (canceled)
31. (canceled)
Type: Application
Filed: Aug 17, 2022
Publication Date: Oct 24, 2024
Applicant: Nypro Inc. (Clinton, MA)
Inventors: Jeffrey C. Minnette (Clinton, MA), Ryan P. Davidson (Clinton, MA), Julie Corbett (Clinton, MA), Romeo Graham (Clinton, MA), Eric Krost (Clinton, MA)
Application Number: 18/684,779