REUSABLE DECORATIVE CANISTER APPARATUS

Abstract

A reusable decorative canister apparatus includes a housing, an access element, and a separator element. The access element and the housing form a hollow interior space configured to receive a disposable wipe insert containing multiple disposable wipes. The access element includes a sidewall extending between a bottom edge and a top edge. The sidewall includes an elevated portion, a secondary portion opposite the elevated portion, and a height from the bottom edge to the top edge that decreases from the elevated portion towards the secondary portion. The separator element is coupled to an inside perimeter of the top edge adjacent to the elevated portion and is configured to receive one of the disposable wipes therethrough.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to containers. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to reusable canisters for dispensing sanitizing wipes.

BACKGROUND

As the demand for sanitizing wipes and disposable wipes continues to rise, the need for efficient storage and dispensing solutions has become increasingly evident. Traditional disposable wipe containers often lack aesthetic appeal and frequently lead to issues of untidiness and waste due to their design limitations.

For example, known disposable wipe containers tend to be unattractive and bulky, thereby resulting in unnecessary space consumption that detracts from surrounding aesthetics. Additionally, flawed and inefficient separator designs are commonly implemented in disposable wipe containers to facilitate separation and use of one of the disposable wipes. Using such a separator to separate and remove a disposable wipe tends to result in the remaining disposable wipes falling to the side or overhanging the top of the container. Often, this may prevent the container from closing. In addition to causing an untidy or disorganized appearance, an open container tends to cause remaining disposable wipes to dry out and be rendered unusable in short order, thereby causing unnecessary waste.

Accordingly, there is a need for a reusable canister for disposable wipes that elevates the aesthetics and functionality of disposable wipe storage by providing a slim-profile design that optimizes storage efficiency and disposable wipe access and use while maintaining a neat and organized appearance. Beneficially, such a reusable canister would be durable, easy to manufacture, and would enhance style and versatility.

BRIEF SUMMARY

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a reusable decorative canister apparatus configured to retain and dispense disposable wipes is presented. In some embodiments, the reusable decorative canister apparatus includes a housing, an access element, and a separator element. The housing extends between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis.

The access element is removably coupled to the first end of the housing such that the housing and the access element form a hollow interior space. In some embodiments, the hollow interior space is configured to receive a disposable wipe insert containing multiple disposable wipes. The access element includes a bottom edge, a top edge including an inside perimeter, and a sidewall extending between the bottom edge and the top edge in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. The sidewall includes an elevated portion, a secondary portion opposite the elevated portion, and a height from the bottom edge to the top edge. The height of the sidewall decreases from the elevated portion towards the secondary portion.

The separator element is coupled to the inside perimeter and disposed adjacent to the elevated portion. The separator element is configured to receive one of the disposable wipes therethrough and retain the disposable wipe within the hollow interior space. In some embodiments, the separator element is further configured to separate one of the disposable wipes from the plurality of disposable wipes in response to a lateral force and/or a longitudinal force.

In some embodiments, the second end includes a planar surface configured to support the housing in an upright position such that the first end is disposed above the second end. In certain embodiments, the first end and the second end are substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, the housing is substantially cylindrical.

In some embodiments, the housing includes an exterior surface and an interior surface. The entirety of the interior surface is disposed adjacent to the disposable wipe insert. In some embodiments, the exterior surface includes at least one decorative element.

In certain embodiments, the sidewall includes a slope from the elevated portion to the secondary portion. In some embodiments, the slope is 9.5 degrees.

In some embodiments, the reusable decorative canister apparatus further includes a lid coupled to the access element. The lid is configured to selectively cover the top edge. In some embodiments, the lid is configured to move between a closed position and an open position. The lid provides access to the hollow interior space in the open position.

In some embodiments, the reusable decorative canister apparatus further includes a securing element coupled to the lid and/or the access element. The securing element is configured to selectively secure the lid in the closed position.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a reusable decorative canister system includes a housing, an access element, a lid, and a securing element. The housing extends between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis. The second end is configured to support the housing in an upright position such that the first end is disposed above the second end. In some embodiments, the second end includes a substantially planar surface.

The access element is removably coupled to the first end such that the housing and the access element form a hollow interior space. The hollow interior space is configured to receive a disposable wipe insert containing multiple disposable wipes. The access element includes a bottom edge, a top edge, a sidewall, and a separator element. The bottom edge extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The top edge is disposed above the bottom edge in the upright position. The top edge includes an outside perimeter and an inside perimeter.

The sidewall extends between the bottom edge and the top edge in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. The sidewall includes an elevated portion, a secondary portion opposite the elevated portion, and a height that decreases from the elevated portion towards the secondary portion. The separator element is coupled to the inside perimeter of the top edge and is disposed adjacent to the elevated portion. The separator element is configured to receive one of the disposable wipes therethrough and to retain the disposable wipe within the hollow interior space.

The reusable decorative canister system further includes a lid and a securing element. The lid is configured to selectively move between an open position and a closed position. The lid covers the top edge and includes a downward slope in the closed position. The downward slope may be 9.5 degrees. In some embodiments, the lid provides access to the hollow interior space in the open position. In certain embodiments, the lid is coupled to the access element via a hinge disposed adjacent to the elevated portion.

The securing element is coupled to the access element and configured to selectively secure the lid in the closed position. In some embodiments, the securing element is disposed adjacent to the secondary portion. The securing element may be configured to engage at least a portion of the lid in the closed position. In some embodiments, the securing element includes a depressable button coupled to the access element. The lid may be biased with respect to the access element via a biasing element such that the depressable button automatically releases the lid to the open position in response to being depressed.

In some embodiments, the housing includes an exterior surface and an interior surface. An entirety of the interior surface may be disposed adjacent to the disposable wipe insert. In some embodiments, the exterior surface includes at least one decorative element.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, like elements are depicted by like reference numerals. The drawings are briefly described as follows.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a representative embodiment of a reusable decorative canister apparatus in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a representative reusable decorative canister apparatus in an open position in accordance some embodiments;

FIG. 3A is an exploded perspective view of a representative prior art disposable wipe insert;

FIG. 3B is an exploded perspective view of the prior art disposable wipe insert of FIG. 3A being received by a representative embodiment of a housing in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 3C is an exploded perspective view of the prior art disposable wipe insert of FIG. 3A inserted into the housing of FIG. 3B, as well as a representative embodiment of an access element and lid in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 3D is an exploded perspective view of a representative embodiment of an assembled reusable decorative canister apparatus incorporating the various components of FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C;

FIG. 4 is a side view of a representative embodiment of a reusable decorative canister system in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of a reusable decorative canister system in operation in accordance with certain embodiments; and

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of a reusable decorative canister system showing the lid in the open position in accordance with certain embodiments.

The present disclosure now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show various example embodiments. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure is thorough, complete and fully conveys the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As discussed above, traditional disposable wipe containers tend to lack aesthetic appeal as well as cause untidiness and waste. For example, known disposable wipe containers tend to be bulkier than their contents. In addition, known disposable wipe containers incorporate flawed and/or inefficient separator designs that cause remaining disposable wipes to fall to the side or overhang the container after a disposable wipe is removed. Remaining disposable wipes thus interfere with the container's ability to close, causing remaining wipes to dry out and become unusable. The present disclosure addresses these and other issues.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, a reusable decorative canister apparatus 10 configured to retain and dispense disposable wipes is presented. In some embodiments, for example, the reusable decorative canister apparatus 10 is constructed from one or more durable, aesthetically-pleasing materials such as stone, marble, wood, metal, and/or the like. In some embodiments, the reusable decorative canister apparatus 10 includes an exterior surface 66 having one or more decorative features or elements such as ridges, depressions, projections, grooves, ornamentation, color, graphics, and/or the like.

The reusable decorative canister apparatus 10 may include a housing 12 removably coupled to an access element 20. The housing 12 may extend between a first end 14 and a second end 16 along a longitudinal axis 18. In some embodiments, the second end 16 includes a planar surface 26 configured to support the housing 12 in an upright position such that the first end 14 is disposed above the second end 16. In certain embodiments, the first end 14 and the second end 16 are substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 18. In one embodiment, the housing 18 is substantially cylindrical. Of course the housing 12 may be substantially rectangular, polygonal, elliptical, and/or may include any other suitable shape and/or size.

In some embodiments, the housing 12 and the access element 20 form a hollow interior space 22 configured to receive and retain disposable wipes. In some embodiments, the housing 12 is removably coupled to the access element 20 via one or more mechanical devices or features such as a press fit, a threaded connection, a hinge, a clip, a snap, a clasp, a hook and loop material, and/or the like. In some embodiments, an external shape and/or contours of the housing 12 substantially match the external shape and/or contours of the access element 20 to enable the housing 12 and the access element 20 to form a substantially seamless, aesthetically pleasing connection.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3C while still referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the housing 12 includes a size and a shape configured to receive and retain a disposable wipe insert 100 containing multiple disposable wipes 102. The size and/or shape of the housing 12 may be selected to substantially match the size and/or shape of the disposable wipe insert 100. In some embodiments, the housing 12 may include a size and shape selected such that the disposable wipe insert 100 fits snugly inside the housing 12 and an airspace 24 between the disposable wipe insert 100 and the interior surface 68 of the housing 12 is minimized.

In some embodiments, an entirety of the interior surface 68 of the housing 12 is disposed adjacent to the disposable wipe insert 100 to minimize airspace 24 therebetween and thereby facilitate a slim profile of the reusable decorative canister apparatus 10. In some embodiments, the interior surface 68 includes a glaze, a lacquer, a texture, a liner, and/or another suitable feature to facilitate a snug fit between the interior surface 68 of the housing 12 and the disposable container 100.

In some embodiments, the access element 20 includes a bottom edge 28, a top edge 30, and a sidewall 44 extending between the bottom edge 28 and the top edge 30 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 18. The bottom edge 28 may be removably coupled to the first end 14 of the housing 12 by, for example, a threaded connection and/or any other suitable mechanical fastener or fastening mechanism. In some embodiments, the access element 20 may include a durable, aesthetically-pleasing material that is identical or complementary to the housing 12 material. For example, the access element 20 may include stone, marble, wood, metal, and/or the like. In some embodiments, the access element 20 also includes one more decorative features or elements such as ridges, depressions, projections, grooves, ornamentation, color, graphics, and/or the like.

Referring now to FIG. 4 while still referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the sidewall 44 of the access element 20 includes a height 50 from the bottom edge 28 to the top edge 30. In some embodiments, the height 50 of the sidewall 44 decreases from an elevated portion 46 towards a secondary portion 48 disposed opposite the elevated portion 46. For example, the height 50 difference between the extended position 52 and the secondary portion 48 may be about one-half inch (0.5 in.). Thus, in certain embodiments, the sidewall 44 includes a downward slope 32 from the elevated portion 46 to the secondary portion 48. In some embodiments, the slope 32 is about nine and a half degrees (9.5°). In other embodiments, the slope 32 is between about nine (9) and about ten degrees (9°-10°).

In one embodiment, for example, the height 50 decreases from 2.5 inches at the elevated portion 46 to 2.0 inches at the secondary portion 48. In other embodiments, the height 50 decreases from between two and three inches (2-3 in.) at the elevated portion 46 to between one and one-half and two and a half inches (1.5-2.5 in.) at the secondary portion 48.

In some embodiments, the reusable decorative canister apparatus 10 includes a lid 54 configured to selectively cover, entirely or partially, the top edge 30. In some embodiments, the lid 54 is coupled to the access element 20 via a hinge 56, a screw, a bolt, a rivet, a grommet, and/or any other suitable attachment device or mechanism. In some embodiments, the lid 54 is configured to move between a closed position 84 (shown in FIG. 1) and an open position 86 (shown in FIG. 2).

In the closed position 84, the lid 54 may be configured to cover at least a portion of the top edge 30. In some embodiments, the closed position 84 may create an airtight seal between the lid 54 and the access element 20. For example, in one embodiment, an inside surface 76 of the lid 54 includes a sealing component 58 configured to engage an inside perimeter 40 of the top edge 30 in the closed position 84, thereby creating an airtight seal.

In the open position 86, the lid 54 may be configured to provide access to the hollow interior space 22. For example, in some embodiments, the lid 54 may be lifted or otherwise removed from the access element 20 to permit access to the hollow interior space 22. In other embodiments, the lid 54 may be hingedly coupled to the access element 20 such that tilting or angling the lid 54 upward with respect to the access element 20 provides access to the hollow interior space 22.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 while still referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a biasing element 74 may be interposed between the lid 54 and the access element 20 and/or may be implemented in combination with a hinge 56 or other suitable coupling element to couple the lid 54 to the access element 20. In some embodiments, the biasing element 74 may include a compression spring, an extension spring, a torsion spring, a spiral spring, and/or any other suitable biasing element. Thus, in some embodiments, the lid 54 may be configured to automatically return to the open position 86 in response to a release of applied pressure.

Referring now to FIG. 5 while still referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in some embodiments, a securing element 80 is coupled to the lid 54 and/or the access element 20 to selectively secure the lid 54 in the closed position 84. In certain embodiments, the securing element 80 is configured to selectively engage at least a portion of the lid 54 to maintain the lid 54 in the closed position 84.

In some embodiments, the securing element 80 may include, for example, a depressable button 82 coupled to the top edge 30 of the access element 20. In one embodiment, the depressable button 82 is integrated into the top edge 30 at a position corresponding to the secondary portion 48. In these and other embodiments, the depressable button 82 may extend above the top edge 30 in an when not depressed. In some embodiments, the depressable button 82 includes a catch 88, recess, slot, groove, or other feature configured to engage a corresponding projection 64 or other suitable feature.

In some embodiments, a tooth or projection 64 is coupled to an outer edge 52 of the lid 54. In these and other embodiments, the outer edge 52 may include a recessed contour 53 substantially conforming to a shape or contour of the depressable button 82. The projection 64 may be disposed within the recessed contour 53 such that the projection 64 contacts an outside edge 78 of the depressable button 82 when the lid 54 is closed. In some embodiments, the projection 64 may be biased with respect to the outer edge 52 of the recessed contour 53 such that the projection 64 retracts into the outer edge 52 in response to applied force.

The catch 88 or other suitable feature may be integrated into an inside edge 78 of the depressable button 82. In some embodiments, the catch 88 includes a size and shape configured to automatically receive and retain the projection 64. Thus, in certain embodiments, the projection 64 of the lid 54 automatically engages the catch 88 of the depressable button 82 in response to the lid 54 moving to the closed position 84. In some embodiments, the depressable button 82 and/or the catch 88 may extend in a substantially transverse direction relative to the longitudinal axis 18.

In some embodiments, the depressable button 82 is biased against the top edge 30 of the access element 20 such that the depressable button 82 moves downward in a longitudinal direction in response to the depressable button 82 being depressed. Depressing the depressable button 82 in this manner may also move the catch 88 in a downward direction relative to the projection 64, thereby forcing the projection 64 into the outside edge 78 of the lid 54 such that the projection 64 disengages the catch 88. In this manner, depressing the depressable button 82 may release the lid 54 from the securing element 80, thereby permitting the lid 54 to move to the open position 86.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 6, in some embodiments, the top edge 30 of the access element 20 may include an inside perimeter 40 and an outside perimeter 42. In some embodiments, a distance 36 between the inside perimeter 40 and the outside perimeter 42 is about three-eighths of an inch (⅜ in.). The distance 36 between the inside perimeter 40 and the outside perimeter 42 may be consistent or may vary. In one embodiment, the inside perimeter 40 forms a circle. The outside perimeter 42, however, may be generally circular in shape with portions of the circle interrupted by the depressable button 82 on one side and the hinge 56 on the opposite side. As a result, in this embodiment, the distance 36 may be reduced at or along those areas. In other embodiments, the distance 36 may be reduced or increased along one or more portions of the top edge 30.

In some embodiments, the reusable decorative canister apparatus 10 includes a separator element 60 coupled to or contiguous with the inside perimeter 40 and disposed adjacent to the elevated portion 46. The separator element 60 may include a lightweight plastic, metal, composite, and/or other suitable material. In certain embodiments, the separator element 60 extends along a portion of the inside perimeter 40 disposed adjacent to the hinge 56 or other connection point between the lid 54 and the access element 20.

In some embodiments, the separator element 60 covers and/or obstructs a portion of the hollow interior space 22. In some embodiments, the separator element 60 is substantially planar and extends across a top plane 38 of the hollow interior space 22 defined by the inside perimeter 40. In certain embodiments, the separator element 60 occupies less than one-half of a diameter 94 of the inside perimeter 40. In other embodiments, the separator element 60 occupies less than one-third of the diameter 94 of the inside perimeter 40.

In some embodiments, the separator element 60 includes a crescent, semicircle or other suitable regular or irregular shape. In some embodiments, the opening 62 may be disposed in the separator element 60 adjacent to the inside perimeter 40 at a position corresponding to the elevated portion 46. Embodiments may thus maximize a distance between the opening 62 and the secondary portion 48 such that a single disposable wipe 108 retained through the opening 62 is disposed at or near a highest point of the slope 32. In this manner, the single disposable wipe 108 tends to falls forward into or toward the hollow interior space 22, rather than laterally toward a side of the top edge 30.

In some embodiments, the opening 62 includes a slot extending transversely across at least a portion of separator element 60. In other embodiments, the opening 62 includes an anchor shape, a cross shape, a V-shape, a star shape, and/or any other suitable shape. The opening 62 may include one or more edges, corners, arcs, or other suitable features to engage at least a portion of a single disposable wipe 108, thereby facilitate isolating the single disposable wipe 108 from the remaining disposable wipes 102 and/or separating and/or removing the single disposable wipe 108 from the remaining wipes 102.

In some embodiments, one or more perforations (not shown) between each single disposable wipe 108 and the remaining disposable wipes 102 further facilitate selection, separation, and/or removal of the single disposable wipe 108. In some embodiments, applying a lateral force and/or longitudinal force to the single disposable wipe 108 may cause at least a portion of the opening 62 to engage and/or separate the single disposable wipe 108 from the remaining disposable wipes 102.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, a reusable decorative canister system 90 may be assembled to retain and dispense dry or wet disposable wipes 102, such as cleaning wipes, disinfecting wipes, diaper wipes, polishing wipes, moist towelettes, and/or any other suitable disposable wipes. In some embodiments, the reusable decorative canister system 90 is configured to receive and retain a prior art disposable wipe insert 100 or canister that contains a roll, pile, stack, or other configuration of multiple disposable wipes 102.

As shown in FIG. 3A, in some embodiments, a disposable wipe insert 100 may include a lightweight container or enclosure constructed of plastic or another suitable material. The prior art disposable wipe insert 100 may extend along a longitudinal axis 18. In some embodiments, the disposable wipe insert 100 includes a cylindrical, rectangular, oblong, elliptical, or other suitable shape. Many disposable wipes 102 may be contained within the disposable wipe insert 100. A liquid cleaning solution may also be disposed within the prior art disposable wipe insert 100 and may be associated with the disposable wipes 102. Thus, in some embodiments, the disposable wipe insert 100 may include a material and/or coating that is impermeable to liquid.

In certain embodiments, each of the disposable wipes 102 contained within the disposable wipe insert 100 is attached to the remaining disposable wipes 102 via a perforated connection. In this manner, a single disposable wipe 108 may be separated and removed from the remaining disposable wipes 102 along one or more perforations.

In some embodiments, the disposable wipe insert 100 includes a removable lid 104. In certain embodiments, the removable lid 104 is attached to the disposable wipe insert 100 via a threaded connection, a hinge, or other suitable mechanical fastening technique or device. In some embodiments, the removable lid 104 may be removed from the disposable wipe insert 100 prior to assembling the reusable decorative canister system 90.

In some embodiments, a reusable decorative canister system 90 may include a housing 12, an access element 20, a lid 54, and a securing element 80. Referring now to FIG. 3B, while still referring to FIGS. 3A, 3C and 3D, the housing 12 may extend between a first end 14 and a second end 16 along a longitudinal axis 18. In some embodiments, the housing 12 includes a cylindrical, polygonal, rectangular, or any other suitable shape. In certain embodiments, the housing 12 includes a shape substantially similar to the shape of the disposable wipe insert 100.

The second end 16 of the housing 12 may be configured to support the housing 12 in an upright position such that the first end 14 is disposed above the second end 16. In some embodiments, the second end 16 includes a substantially planar surface 26. In certain embodiments, the housing 12 includes one or more walls 34 extending between the first end 14 and the second end 16. The walls 34 may be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 18. In some embodiments, one or more of the walls 34 tapers inward or outward towards the second end 16. In some embodiments, the second end 16 includes a smaller or larger diameter or other dimensions relative to the first end 14.

The housing 12 may be configured to receive the disposable wipe insert 100 therein such that the longitudinal axis 18 of the housing 12 substantially aligns with and/or is coaxial with a longitudinal axis 106 of the prior art disposable wipe insert 100. In some embodiments, the housing 12 includes a diameter 92 at least slightly larger than a diameter 98 of the disposable wipe insert 100 to facilitate insertion and retention of the disposable wipe insert 100. Further, in some embodiments, the housing 12 defines a hollow interior space 22 having dimensions at least slightly greater than dimensions of disposable wipe insert 100. In certain embodiments, an interior surface 68 of the housing 12 is disposed entirely adjacent to the disposable wipe insert 100 to minimize an airspace 24 between the two (as shown in FIG. 3C), thereby providing a slim profile for the housing 12.

In some embodiments, the housing 12 includes a height 96 extending between the first end 14 and the second end 16. As shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C, in certain embodiments, the height 96 of the housing 12 may be greater than a height 110 of the prior art disposable wipe insert 100 such that the prior art disposable wipe insert 100 may be completely contained within the housing 12. In some embodiments, an exterior surface 66 of the housing 12 includes one or more decorative features (not shown), such as ridges, grooves, depressions, projections, color, ornamentation, and/or the like. Such features may further enhance the aesthetic appeal of the reusable decorative canister system 90.

Referring now to FIGS. 3C and 3D, the access element 20 may include a bottom edge 28, a top edge 30, a sidewall 44 extending between the bottom edge 28 and the top edge 30, and a separator element 60. In some embodiments, the bottom edge 28 extends substantially perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axis 18. The top edge 30 may be disposed above the bottom edge 28 when the reusable decorative canister system 90 is in an upright position.

In some embodiments, the sidewall 44 of the access element 20 includes a height 50 between the bottom edge 28 and the top edge 30. In some embodiments, the height 50 of the sidewall 44 decreases from an elevated portion 46 on one side of the access element 20 towards a secondary portion 48 disposed on an opposite side of the access element 20. In certain embodiments, the sidewall 44 slopes in a downward direction from the elevated portion 46 to the secondary portion 48. In some embodiments, the slope 32 is about nine and a half degrees (9.5°).

In some embodiments, the bottom edge 28 of the access element 20 is removably coupled to the first end 14 of the housing 12 via a threaded connection, a press fit, a rivet, a grommet, stitching, an adhesive, a hook and loop material, and/or any other suitable mechanical connection. In some embodiments, the housing 12 and the access element 20 form a hollow interior space 22. The hollow interior space 22 includes dimensions and a shape configured to receive and retain an entirety of the disposable wipe insert 100 therein. In some embodiments, the first end 14 of the housing 12 may extend above the prior art disposable wipe insert 100 when the reusable decorative canister system 90 is assembled such that the prior art disposable wipe insert 100 is retained within the housing 12.

In some embodiments, an entirety of the interior surface 68 of the housing 12 is disposed adjacent to the disposable wipe insert 100 when the reusable decorative canister system 90 is assembled. This feature may facilitate a slim profile of the reusable decorative canister system 90 by minimizing airspace 24 between the prior art disposable wipe insert 100 and the interior surface 68 of the housing 12.

In some embodiments, the top edge 30 of the access element 20 may be coupled to a lid 54 such that the lid 54 is movable between an open position 86 and a closed position 84. In some embodiments, the lid 54 may be biased with respect to the access element 20 such that the lid 54 automatically moves to the open position 86 in response to a release of force or pressure.

In some embodiments, the lid 54 is configured to substantially cover the top edge 30 of the access element 20. In these and other embodiments, the lid 54 may be substantially planar and may be configured to substantially cover and/or obstruct access to the hollow interior space 22. In certain embodiments, the lid 54 may cover the top edge 30 of the access element 20 in an airtight manner.

In some embodiments, the lid 54 includes a downward slope 32 in the closed position 84. The downward slope 32 may be 9.5 degrees. The lid 54 may provide access to the hollow interior space 22 in the open position 86.

Referring now to FIG. 3D, while still referring to FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C, in some embodiments, the lid 54 renders the access element 20 and/or housing 12 airtight in the closed position 84. For example, in some embodiments, the lid 54 and/or the access element 20 includes a sealing component 58 configured to engage a corresponding feature of the lid 54 and/or the access element 20 in an airtight manner. In one embodiment, the sealing component 58 includes a rim 70 extending from an inside surface of the lid 54 and configured to contact and/or engage the inside perimeter 40 of the top edge 30 in an airtight manner. In some embodiments, the rim 70 and/or the inside perimeter 40 of the top edge 30 may include a silicone gasket. In one embodiment, the silicone gasket is a two millimeter (2 mm) silicone gasket. In other embodiments, the sealing component 58 includes rubber, plastic, silicone, and/or any other suitable material.

The access element 20 may be coupled to the lid 54 via a hinge 56, a threaded connection, a press fit, a mechanical device, or any other suitable mechanical device or mechanism. In some embodiments, the hinge 56 enables the lid 54 to be moved between a closed position 84 where the lid 54 is substantially aligned with the top edge 30 to an open position 86 where the lid 54 tilts upward such that the lid 54 is disposed on an angle relative to the longitudinal axis 18 and the projection 64 is retained away from the access element 20.

In some embodiments, the top edge 30 includes an outside perimeter 42 and an inside perimeter 40. In some embodiments, the inside perimeter 40 and the outside perimeter 42 include substantially congruent shapes where the outside perimeter 42 substantially circumscribes the inside perimeter 40.

In certain embodiments, a securing element 80 is coupled to the access element 20 and/or the lid 54 to selectively secure the lid 54 in the closed position 84, thereby preventing disposable wipes 102 from drying out or otherwise becoming contaminated and/or unusable. In one embodiment, the securing element 80 includes a depressable button 82 disposed along the outside perimeter 42 of the access element 20 at a position adjacent to the secondary portion 48. The depressable button 82 may be configured to engage a projection 64 or other feature of the lid 54 to secure the lid 54 in the closed position 84. The depressable button 82 may be disposed such that the depressable button 82 is easily accessible to a user when the lid 54 is in an open position 86 as well as when the lid 54 is in a closed position 84.

In some embodiments, the depressable button 82 includes a substantially rectangular or oblong shape having dimensions sufficient to accommodate a finger or fingertip of a user. In certain embodiments, the depressable button 82 may be coupled to the access element 20 such that the depressable button 82 and the lid 54 are substantially coplanar in the closed position 84. In one embodiment, for example, the lid 54 may include a recessed portion 53 or cutout configured to accommodate the depressable button 82 when the lid 54 is in the closed position 84. Of course, in other embodiments, the depressable button 82 may extend above the lid 54 or may be disposed below the lid 54 in the closed position 84. Depressing the depressable button 82 may release the lid 54 from the closed position 84 and/or may directly or indirectly move the lid 54 to the open position 86.

In some embodiments, the separator element 60 is coupled to the inside perimeter 40 of the top edge 30 and disposed adjacent to the elevated portion 46. The separator element 60 may be configured to receive one of the disposable wipes 108 therethrough. In one embodiment, for example, the separator element 60 includes an opening 62 having a size and shape configured to retain a single disposable wipe 108 in a ready position apart from the remaining disposable wipes 102 disposed within the hollow interior space 22.

In some embodiments, the separator element 60 includes an opening 62 and/or other feature configured to physically separate the single disposable wipe 108 from the remaining disposable wipes 102 in response to a lateral and/or longitudinal force applied to the single disposable wipe 108. For example, in some embodiments, a user may pull the single disposable wipe 108 in any direction relative to the separator element 60 to separate and remove the single disposable wipe 108, including in a forward, downward and/or lateral direction. In these and other embodiments, at least a portion of the opening 62 may engage the single disposable wipe 108 and/or a portion of the remaining disposable wipes 102 as the single disposable wipe 108 is pulled to facilitate isolating and removing the single disposable wipe 108. Further, in some embodiments, the opening 62 is disposed adjacent to the elevated portion 46 such that the remaining disposable wipes 102 tend to fall forward into the hollow interior space 22 after the single disposable wipe 108 is removed. In this manner, embodiments of the reusable decorative canister system 90 prevent waste and untidiness by preventing remaining disposable wipes 102 from interfering with the lid's 54 ability to close.

The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

In conclusion, the disclosure is illustrated by example in the drawing figures, and throughout the written description. It should be understood that numerous variations are possible, while adhering to the inventive concept. Such variations are contemplated as being a part of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A reusable decorative canister apparatus configured to retain and dispense disposable wipes, comprising:

a housing extending between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis;

an access element removably coupled to the first end, wherein the housing and the access element form a hollow interior space configured to receive a disposable wipe insert comprising a plurality of disposable wipes, the access element comprising a bottom edge, a top edge comprising an inside perimeter, and a sidewall extending between the bottom edge and the top edge in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, wherein the sidewall comprises an elevated portion, a secondary portion opposite the elevated portion, and a height from the bottom edge to the top edge, wherein the height decreases from the elevated portion towards the secondary portion; and

a separator element coupled to the inside perimeter and disposed adjacent to the elevated portion, wherein the separator element is configured to receive one of the plurality of disposable wipes therethrough and retain the one of the plurality of disposable wipes within the hollow interior space.

2. The reusable decorative canister apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second end comprises a planar surface configured to support the housing in an upright position such that the first end is disposed above the second end.

3. The reusable decorative canister apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first end and the second end are substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

4. The reusable decorative canister apparatus of claim 1, wherein the housing is substantially cylindrical.

5. The reusable decorative canister apparatus of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises an exterior surface and an interior surface, wherein an entirety of the interior surface is disposed adjacent to the disposable wipe insert.

6. The reusable decorative canister apparatus of claim 5, wherein the exterior surface comprises at least one decorative element.

7. The reusable decorative canister of claim 1, wherein the sidewall comprises a slope from the elevated portion to the secondary portion, wherein the slope is 9.5 degrees.

8. The reusable decorative canister apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a lid coupled to the access element and configured to selectively cover at least a portion of the top edge.

9. The reusable decorative canister of claim 8, wherein the lid is configured to move between a closed position and an open position, wherein the lid provides access to the hollow interior space in the open position.

10. The reusable decorative canister apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a securing element coupled to at least one of the lid and the access element, wherein the securing element is configured to selectively secure the lid in the closed position.

11. The reusable decorative canister apparatus of claim 1, wherein the separator element is further configured to separate one of the plurality of disposable wipes from the plurality of disposable wipes in response to at least one of a lateral force and a longitudinal force.

12. A reusable decorative canister system, comprising:

a housing extending between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis, wherein the second end is configured to support the housing in an upright position such that the first end is disposed above the second end;

an access element removably coupled to the first end, wherein the housing and the access element form a hollow interior space configured to receive a disposable wipe insert comprising a plurality of disposable wipes, the access element comprising: a bottom edge extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; a top edge disposed above the bottom edge in the upright position, the top edge comprising an outside perimeter and an inside perimeter; a sidewall extending between the bottom edge and the top edge in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, wherein the sidewall comprises an elevated portion, a secondary portion opposite the elevated portion, and a height that decreases from the elevated portion towards the secondary portion; and a separator element coupled to the inside perimeter and disposed adjacent to the elevated portion, wherein the separator element is configured to receive one of the plurality of disposable wipes therethrough and retain the one of the plurality of disposable wipes within the hollow interior space;

a lid configured to selectively move between an open position and a closed position, wherein the lid covers the top edge and comprises a downward slope in the closed position; and

a securing element coupled to the access element, wherein the securing element is configured to selectively secure the lid in the closed position.

13. The reusable decorative canister system of claim 12, wherein the second end comprises a substantially planar surface.

14. The reusable decorative canister system of claim 12, wherein the lid provides access to the hollow interior space in the open position.

15. The reusable decorative canister system of claim 12, wherein the lid is coupled to the access element via a hinge disposed adjacent to the elevated portion.

16. The reusable decorative canister system of claim 12, wherein the securing element is disposed adjacent to the secondary portion and wherein the securing element is configured to engage at least a portion of the lid in the closed position.

17. The reusable decorative canister system of claim 16, wherein the securing element comprises a depressable button coupled to the access element and wherein the lid is biased with respect to the access element via a biasing element, wherein the depressable button is configured to automatically release the lid to the open position in response to being depressed.

18. The reusable decorative canister system of claim 12, wherein the downward slope comprises 9.5 degrees.

19. The reusable decorative canister system of claim 12, wherein the housing comprises an exterior surface and an interior surface, wherein an entirety of the interior surface is disposed adjacent to the disposable wipe insert.

20. The reusable decorative canister system of claim 19, wherein the exterior surface comprises at least one decorative element.