Foldable food or beverage container

Abstract

The invention relates to a foldable, disposable food or beverage container (2). The invention relates to a container (1) comprising: a housing (4) comprising: a first end (6) comprising a top portion (8) defining an outlet (10); a second end (12) opposite the first end, the second end comprising a bottom portion (14); and a side portion (16a), b, the side portion extending from the first end to the second end; wherein a cavity for accommodating food or beverage is formed among the first end part, the second end part and the side part of the shell; the cavity is in fluid communication with the outlet; a longitudinal axis is defined between the first end part and the second end part of the shell; the container is switchable between two configurations: a first folded configuration at which one end or side portion of the housing is located at or proximate to a corresponding opposing end or opposing side portion, and a second folded configuration at which one end or side portion of the housing is located at or proximate to a corresponding opposing end or opposing side portion; a second expanded configuration at which one end or side portion of the housing is spaced from a corresponding opposing end or opposing side portion, thereby forming the cavity; the shell is completely made of paper. The entire container is suitable for domestic compost processing and / or is biodegradable.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a collapsible, disposable food or beverage container. The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a collapsible, disposable food or beverage container. BACKGROUND

[0002] During long-haul flights, passengers are provided with up to three meals. Each meal is served with a bottle of plastic water or a plastic cup of water with an aluminium lid for each passenger. Using a Boeing 777-300 aircraft as an example, this aircraft typically carries 388 passengers and they consume a total of 388 bottles / cups of water during the entire flight, which amounts to 1164 bottles / cups of water per single flight. There are thousands of long-haul flights operating around the world every day. Since the waste in the cabin is not sorted, most of the waste cannot be recycled; the 1164 bottles / 1164 cups of water generated from each long-haul flight end up in landfills. It is known that plastic bottles take approximately 450 years to decompose in landfills. It is clear that the aviation industry generates a large amount of waste.

[0003] During the flight, passengers need more water than usual due to the dry air and high altitude. However, passengers must empty their liquid containers when boarding the aircraft as these liquid items are not allowed through security. Therefore, passengers are unable to obtain water for themselves after boarding the aircraft and can only drink the water provided with the meals.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to encourage passengers to drink more water during the flight while reducing the amount of waste generated, so that these wastes are not disposed of in landfills. SUMMARY

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a collapsible, disposable food or beverage container, the container comprising: a housing, the housing comprising: a first end portion, the first end portion comprising a top portion defining an outlet; a second end portion opposite the first end portion, the second end portion comprising a bottom portion; and a side portion extending from the first end portion to the second end portion; a cavity defined between the first end portion, the second end portion and the side portion of the housing for containing a food or beverage; the cavity being in fluid communication with the outlet; a longitudinal axis defined between the first end portion and the second end portion of the housing; the container being switchable between two configurations: a first collapsed configuration in which one end portion or side portion of the housing is located at or proximate to a corresponding opposite end portion or opposite side portion; and In the second unfolded configuration, one end or side portion of the outer shell maintains a distance from the corresponding opposite end or side portion, thereby providing the cavity; The outer shell is made entirely of paper, and the entire container is suitable for home composting and / or is biodegradable.

[0006] The container of the present invention can be folded when not in use (i.e., in a first folded state). Ideally, the container can be folded to less than half of its original size. For example, when measuring the distance between the two opposite ends of the container (the first end and the second end), the container can be folded to at least half of its original length (the "original length" here refers to the length of the container in its second unfolded state). In some embodiments, when measuring the distance between the two opposite side portions of the container, the container can be folded to at least half of its original width (the "original width" here refers to the width of the container in its second unfolded state).

[0007] By folding the container, users can easily carry it through security checks, thus meeting local and international airport security regulations. Furthermore, the container requires minimal storage space, enabling efficient storage and transportation on vehicles. For example, under the same space constraints, a greater number of containers can be transported from factories or distribution centers to destinations such as airports, effectively reducing transportation costs and minimizing the resulting time and environmental impact.

[0008] After passing through security, passengers can switch the container to its second unfolded form and fill it with liquid (such as water) before boarding. Carrying a container filled with water on board encourages passengers to drink more water and more frequently during the flight.

[0009] The container is easier to transport when folded, which again encourages users to empty the container during flight.

[0010] The user can adjust the size of the container (i.e., measured by the distance between two opposite sides of the container; for example, the length of the container is expressed as the distance between two opposite ends of the outer shell) according to the volume of fluid inside the outer shell cavity.

[0011] The container described in this invention can replace plastic containers. Preferably, the container is 100% recyclable, 100% biodegradable, or 100% suitable for home composting. Therefore, the container described in this invention does not increase the amount of waste in landfills, thereby significantly saving waste disposal costs during each long-haul flight.

[0012] As used here, “suitable for home composting” means that the container is capable of being completely decomposed or degraded into natural components through biological processes or specific environmental conditions within a specified time (e.g., 90 days), such as in a home compost bin, without producing any toxic byproducts.

[0013] The term "biodegradable" as used here means that the container can decompose naturally in a harmless manner without producing any toxic byproducts.

[0014] Preferably, the container of the present invention is made entirely of paper.

[0015] The paper material may be made from cardboard, paper, or a mixture of both. For example, the paper material may comprise kraft paper or unbleached paper. The paper material may be made from recycled paper material.

[0016] Preferably, the weight of the paper material does not exceed 200 grams per square meter (gsm). More preferably, the weight of the paper material is at least 100 grams per square meter (gsm). In some embodiments, the weight of the paper material is approximately 130 to 140 grams per square meter (gsm).

[0017] Preferably, the outer casing includes at least one crease line, which is designed to allow the casing to transition between a first folded state and a second unfolded state. The at least one crease line can be one or more creases.

[0018] In one embodiment, the container is movable along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outer shell, wherein: In the first folded configuration, the first end of the outer casing is located at or immediately adjacent to the second end; and In the second unfolded configuration, the first end and the second end of the outer shell are kept at a distance to form the cavity.

[0019] In one embodiment, the container is movable in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the outer shell, wherein: In the first folded configuration, the first side portion of the outer casing is located at or immediately adjacent to the opposing second side portion; and In the second unfolded configuration, the first side portion of the outer shell is spaced apart from the opposite second side portion to form the cavity.

[0020] By rotating the first end relative to the second end, the container can switch between a first folded state and a second unfolded state during use. For example, the container is configured such that, during use, the first end can rotate about the longitudinal axis of the outer shell relative to the second end.

[0021] Preferably, the opposite ends of a single sheet of paper are bonded together to provide an outer shell defining the cavity. Preferably, the opposite ends are provided from the same sheet of paper.

[0022] The inner surface of the outer casing, made of paper, may be coated with a waterproof coating. This waterproof coating may be wax, preferably candle wax or beeswax.

[0023] In one embodiment, the container further includes a liner located within the outer shell cavity. The liner is used to hold food or beverages. The liner may be made of plastic. Preferably, the liner has biodegradable or recyclable properties.

[0024] Preferably, the lining material may be composed of one or more of the following materials: seaweed plastic, natural plant latex and / or polylactic acid (PLA) layer.

[0025] The liner may be configured to be detachably connected to the housing. The liner may be secured to at least a portion of the inner surface of the housing. For example, the liner may be secured to at least a portion of the inner surface of the side portion and / or end portion of the housing.

[0026] Preferably, the outer casing includes at least one longitudinal crease that extends primarily between the first end and the second end. More preferably, the outer casing includes multiple evenly spaced longitudinal creases that extend primarily between the first end and the second end.

[0027] Preferably, the housing includes at least one transverse crease extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing. More preferably, the housing includes a plurality of evenly spaced transverse creases extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing.

[0028] In one embodiment, the container includes: Multiple evenly spaced longitudinal creases extend mainly between the first end and the second end; Multiple evenly spaced transverse creases, extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing; and There is at least one, preferably multiple, evenly spaced diagonal creases, which intersect the longitudinal crease and the transverse crease at a certain angle.

[0029] Preferably, the outer shell includes at least one mountain-shaped crease (i.e., a crease forming a ridge) and at least one valley-shaped crease (i.e., a crease forming a gully).

[0030] Preferably, at least one of the longitudinal crease, transverse crease, and diagonal crease is a mountain-shaped crease, and at least one of the longitudinal crease, transverse crease, and diagonal crease is a valley crease.

[0031] In one embodiment, the container includes: Multiple evenly spaced longitudinal creases extend mainly between the first end and the second end; Multiple evenly spaced transverse creases, extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing; and There is at least one, preferably multiple, evenly spaced diagonal creases, which intersect the longitudinal crease and the transverse crease at a certain angle; Among them, vertical creases are mountain-shaped creases, horizontal creases are mountain-shaped creases, and diagonal creases are valley creases.

[0032] In one embodiment, the container includes: Multiple evenly spaced longitudinal creases extend mainly between the first end and the second end; Multiple evenly spaced transverse creases, extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing; and There is at least one, preferably multiple, evenly spaced diagonal creases, which intersect the longitudinal crease and the transverse crease at a certain angle; Among them, vertical creases are mountain-shaped creases, horizontal creases are valley creases, and diagonal creases are mountain-shaped creases.

[0033] Preferably, the cross-section of the outer casing is polygonal. For example, the cross-section of the outer casing may be decagonal.

[0034] The housing may include a body, a top portion, and a bottom portion.

[0035] Preferably, the top portion and / or bottom portion are connected to the side portion of the main body of the housing by heat sealing.

[0036] Preferably, the top portion has a neck (e.g., a bottleneck-shaped portion), a nozzle, or a spout that defines the outlet; the neck, nozzle, and spout are all made of pulp material.

[0037] Preferably, the top portion includes a contact surface, from which the neck, nozzle, or outlet extends upward.

[0038] Preferably, the neck, nozzle, or spout has a first end near the contact surface of the top portion and a second free end opposite thereto.

[0039] Preferably, the neck, nozzle, or outlet portion defines an outlet at the second free end and has a fluid channel extending from the outlet to the first end; the fluid channel is in fluid communication with the cavity of the housing during use.

[0040] In one embodiment, the contact surface defines the outlet. The outlet may be located on or near the nozzle, neck, or mouthpiece. Preferably, the neck, mouthpiece, or nozzle defines a fluid passage to guide fluid flowing from the outlet to the user's mouth during use. Preferably, the mouthpiece or nozzle has a raised lip that guides fluid from the outlet to the user's mouth during use. Preferably, the lip extends around at least a portion of the periphery of the contact surface. In another embodiment, the lip extends around the entire periphery of the contact surface.

[0041] The neck, spout, or outlet portion may have a height, which refers to the distance measured between the first end and the second free end. The height of the neck, spout, or outlet portion may vary along the edge of the contact surface according to the relevant requirements of the container.

[0042] The container may further include a retaining member for holding the container in a first folded configuration. The container may be held in the first folded configuration by a strap-shaped retaining member; the retaining member is configured to connect a first end and a second end of the container to prevent the container from accidentally switching to a second unfolded configuration (e.g., the first end moving away from the second end).

[0043] Preferably, the fixing component is mainly made of paper. More preferably, the fixing component is made entirely of paper.

[0044] Preferably, the fixing component is movable between a first position and a second position; in the first position, the container is in a first folded state, at which time the fixing component can prevent the container from accidentally switching to a second unfolded state; in the second position, the fixing component is fixed to at least a portion of the outer shell, thereby enabling the user to carry the container using the fixing component.

[0045] In one embodiment, at least one end (preferably both ends) of the fixing component is fixed at or near the mouth of the housing.

[0046] Preferably, when in the second position, the fixing component forms a handle structure located at or near the top portion of the housing for the user to grip. When in the first position, the fixing component is configured to completely surround the housing when it is in the first folded state. For example, the fixing component can be switched between the first and second positions by rotation.

[0047] The container may also include an easy-tear section designed to facilitate user opening of the container (e.g., the outer shell). Specifically, the container may include an easy-tear section that allows the user to access the inner surface of the container. For example, the easy-tear section allows the user to access the inner surface of the container (e.g., the container body) to remove the liner from the outer paper material. This allows the user to separate the various components of the container and recycle them individually (i.e., the outer paper material and the waterproof liner).

[0048] The easy-tearable portion can be achieved through one or more weakening lines, such as one or more perforated lines.

[0049] The tear-away portion may include a pull tab that allows the user to separate the tear-away portion from the rest of the container.

[0050] The tear-off portion can be located at any suitable location on the container. The tear-off portion can be located at or near one end of the container, for example, at or near one end of the outer shell (e.g., at or near one end of the outer shell body).

[0051] The outer surface of the container may include one or more of the following elements: logo, pattern and / or text.

[0052] The container can be designed to allow a third party to observe the quantity of liquid or food stored inside. For example, the container may include one or more transparent or translucent sections.

[0053] The container may be equipped with an identification tag, such as a QR code. The identification tag can help users or third parties monitor the usage of the container, such as the number of times the container is replenished, the frequency of replenishment, and the specific location of replenishment.

[0054] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a foldable, disposable food or beverage container is provided, the method comprising the following steps: Obtain a mold for manufacturing a housing having a predetermined shape, size, and one or more indentation lines; Obtain the paper material and place it on the mold; An external force is applied to press the paper material onto a mold, thereby producing a shell with a predetermined shape, size, and one or more indentation lines.

[0055] Preferably, the outer shell is made of a single sheet of paper.

[0056] Preferably, the mold has one or more raised ridges and / or recesses at predetermined positions. The function of each raised ridge and / or recess is to form corresponding mountain-shaped or valley-shaped creases on the paper.

[0057] Preferably, the method further includes: applying a waterproof coating to the inner surface of the paper material before placing it on the mold.

[0058] In one embodiment, the method further includes fixing opposite ends of the paper to form a tubular structure before placing the paper on the mold.

[0059] Preferably, the method further includes connecting the top portion and the bottom portion to opposite ends of the housing, respectively. The top portion and the bottom portion may be fixed by heat sealing.

[0060] Preferably, the method further includes: using pulp to form a neck, nozzle, or spout that defines the outlet.

[0061] The method may further include: connecting the neck, the opening, or the nozzle to the top portion of the housing.

[0062] Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0063] Figure 1 A to 1D illustrate various embodiments of the container of the present invention transforming from a first folded form to a second unfolded form; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of paper material (with creases) used for making containers according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of paper material (with creases) used for making containers according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of paper material (with creases) used for making containers according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 A and 5B are photographs of the container in its second unfolded state and first folded state, respectively, in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 A and Figure 6 B shows schematic diagrams of the top and bottom portions of the container according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 A and Figure 7 B shows schematic diagrams of a container manufactured according to one embodiment of the present invention, the container having as follows: Figure 6 A and Figure 6 The top and bottom parts of B; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the bottleneck of a container according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is an exploded view of a container according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a method for manufacturing a container shell according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a method for manufacturing the bottom portion of a container according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a method for manufacturing a container bottle neck according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a method for manufacturing the top portion of a container according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a method for manufacturing a container according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of a container in use according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0064] Reference Figure 1 A-1D, the foldable, disposable food or beverage container 2 includes a housing 4, the housing 4 including: a first end 6, the first end 6 including a top portion 8 defining an outlet 10; a second end 12 opposite to the first end 6, the second end 12 including a bottom portion 14; and side portions 16a, 16b extending from the first end 6 to the second end 12. A cavity (not shown) for receiving food or beverage is formed between the first end 6, the second end 12, and the side portions 16a, 16b of the housing 4. The cavity is in fluid communication with the outlet 10. A longitudinal axis is defined between the first end 6 and the second end 12 of the housing 4. The container 2 can switch between two forms: a first folded form, in which the first end 6 / second end 12 is located at or near the position of the opposite second end 12 / first end 6, or the side portions 16a / 16b are located at or near the position of the opposite side portions 16b / 16a; and a second unfolded form, in which the first end 6 / second end 12, the side portions 16a / 16b, and their respective opposite second end 12 / first end 6, and opposite side portions 16b / 16a are spaced apart, thereby forming a cavity. The outer shell 4 is made of paper.

[0065] like Figure 1 As shown in Figure A, by moving (e.g., pulling) the side portions 16a and 16b of container 2 in a direction away from each other, container 2 can switch between a first folded state and a second unfolded state. Container 2 is configured to extend and retract in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0066] like Figure 1 As shown in Figure B, by moving (e.g., pulling) the two ends (first end and second end) 6, 12 of container 2 in directions away from each other, container 2 can switch between a first folded state and a second unfolded state. Container 2 is configured to extend and retract in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0067] like Figure 1 As shown in Figure C, by rotating the two ends (the first end and the second end) 6, 12 of container 2 relative to each other, container 2 can switch between a first folded state and a second unfolded state. The relative rotation of the two ends 6, 12 causes container 2 to extend or retract in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0068] like Figure 1 As shown in D, by moving (e.g., pulling) the two ends (first end and second end) 6, 12 of container 2 in directions away from each other, container 2 can switch between a first folded state and a second unfolded state. Container 2 is configured to extend and retract in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0069] Container 2 can be folded to less than half its original size. For example, when measuring the distance between the two opposite ends (the first end and the second end) 6, 12 of container 2 (see... Figure 1 (B-1D), container 2 can be folded to less than half its original length (the "original length" here refers to the length of the container in its second unfolded state). Figure 1 As shown in A, when the distance between the opposite side portions 16a and 16b of the container is measured, the container 2 can be folded to less than half of its original width (the “original width” here refers to the width of the container in the second unfolded state).

[0070] The main body of the outer casing 4 is made entirely of paper. In the described embodiment, the main body of the outer casing 4 is made of paper. However, it should be understood that the main body of the outer casing 4 may also be made of cardboard, paper, or a mixture of both.

[0071] The paper used to make the outer casing weighs approximately 130-140 grams per square meter (gsm). However, it should be noted that the weight of the paper should be at least 100 grams per square meter (gsm), and preferably not more than 200 grams per square meter (gsm).

[0072] In the described embodiment, opposite ends of a sheet of paper are glued together to form the body of the outer casing 4, thereby forming the cavity.

[0073] The inner surface of the outer casing, made of paper, may be coated with a waterproof coating. This waterproof coating may be wax, preferably candle wax or beeswax.

[0074] The outer shell 4 (e.g., the main body of the outer shell) contains multiple crease lines designed to allow the outer shell to transition between a first folded state and a second unfolded state. These crease lines can be one or more creases.

[0075] like Figure 2 As shown, container 2 includes an outer shell 4, the main body of which is made of a single sheet of paper. The main body of outer shell 4 contains multiple longitudinal creases 18, which extend primarily between the first end 6 and the second end 12 of the container. The spacing between the longitudinal creases 18 is uniform. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the spacing between these longitudinal creases 18 may not be uniform.

[0076] The main body of the outer casing 4 also includes a plurality of evenly spaced transverse creases 20, which extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing 4. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the spacing of these transverse creases 20 may not be uniform.

[0077] The main body of the outer casing 4 also includes a first set of evenly spaced diagonal creases 22a, which intersect the transverse crease 20 and the longitudinal crease 18 at certain angles. The main body of the outer casing 4 further includes a second set of evenly spaced diagonal creases 22b, which also intersect the transverse crease 20 and the longitudinal crease 18 at certain angles, and intersect the first set of diagonal creases 22a. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the spacing of these first set of diagonal creases 22a may not be uniform, and the spacing of these second set of diagonal creases 22b may not be uniform. Furthermore, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the main body of the outer casing 4 may only include one set of diagonal creases 22a and 22b (or may not include diagonal creases at all).

[0078] The longitudinal crease 18, the first group of diagonal creases 22a, and the second group of diagonal creases 22b are mountain-shaped creases (that is, they can form a raised ridge-like structure on the outer surface of the paper). The transverse crease 20 is a valley crease (that is, it will form a ravine-like structure on the outer surface of the paper).

[0079] The two opposite ends of the paper are connected together to form the tubular body of the outer shell 4.

[0080] like Figure 2 As shown, during use, when a force is applied to the first end 6 of the outer shell 4, the outer shell 4 will contract in a direction approximately parallel to its longitudinal axis, thereby entering the first folded state. At this time, the length of the outer shell is less than half of the original length of the container 2.

[0081] like Figure 3 As shown, container 2 includes an outer shell 4, the main body of which is made of a single sheet of paper. The main body of outer shell 4 has multiple longitudinal creases 18, which extend primarily between the first end 6 and the second end 12 of the container. The spacing between the longitudinal creases 18 is uniform. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the spacing between these longitudinal creases 18 may not be uniform.

[0082] The main body of the outer casing 4 also includes a plurality of evenly spaced transverse creases 20, which extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing 4. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the spacing of these transverse creases 20 may not be uniform.

[0083] The main body of the outer casing 4 also includes a set of evenly spaced diagonal creases 22, which intersect the transverse creases 20 and the longitudinal creases 18 at certain angles. However, it should be noted that in some embodiments, the spacing between these diagonal creases 22 may not be uniform.

[0084] The longitudinal crease 18 and the transverse crease 20 are mountain-shaped creases (i.e., these mountain-shaped creases create raised ridge-like structures on the outer surface of the paper). The diagonal crease 22, on the other hand, is a valley crease (i.e., these diagonal creases create recessed structures on the outer surface of the paper).

[0085] The two opposite ends of the paper are connected together to form the tubular body of the outer shell 4.

[0086] like Figure 3 As shown, during use, a rotational force is applied to cause the first end 6 of the outer shell 4 to rotate relative to the second end 12, thereby causing the outer shell to contract in a direction approximately parallel to its longitudinal axis, thus entering the first folded state. At this time, the length of the outer shell is less than half of the original length of the container 2.

[0087] Paper can be shaped into any suitable form. Figure 2 In the image, the paper can be seen to be rectangular; while... Figure 3 In the image, the paper appears to be rhomboid in shape. It should be noted that the paper can actually be any suitable polygonal shape.

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, with Figure 3 Similarly, container 2 is made of a single sheet of paper. The main body of the outer shell contains multiple longitudinal creases 18, which extend primarily between the first end 6 and the second end 12 of the container. The spacing between these longitudinal creases 18 is uniform. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the spacing between these longitudinal creases 18 may be non-uniform.

[0089] The main body of the outer casing 4 also includes multiple evenly distributed transverse creases 20, which extend approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing 4. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the spacing of these transverse creases 20 may not be uniform.

[0090] The main body of the outer casing 4 also includes a set of evenly spaced diagonal creases 22, which intersect the transverse creases 20 and the longitudinal creases 18 at certain angles. However, it should be noted that in some embodiments, the spacing of these diagonal creases 22 may not be uniform.

[0091] The longitudinal crease 18 and the transverse crease 20 are mountain-shaped creases (i.e., these mountain-shaped creases create raised ridge-like structures on the outer surface of the paper). The diagonal crease 22, on the other hand, is a valley crease (i.e., these diagonal creases create recessed structures on the outer surface of the paper).

[0092] The outer casing 4 also includes a top portion 24 attached at a first end 6 and a bottom portion 26 attached at a second end 12. Both the top portion 24 and the bottom portion 26 have additional longitudinal creases 28a and 28b aligned with the longitudinal crease 18. However, these longitudinal creases 28a and 28b on the top portion 24 and the bottom portion 26 are of the valley crease type.

[0093] The two opposite ends of the paper are joined together to form a tubular outer shell 4.

[0094] Figure 5 Showcased by Figure 4 The container 2 is formed by the outer shell 4. The container 2 has a rigid top portion 24 and a bottom portion 26 to enhance its strength and rigidity. When a compressive force is applied (such as...), Figure 5 As shown in B), container 2 will switch to the first folded form, and the length of container 2 will be shortened to less than half of its length in the second unfolded form (see Figure B). Figure 5 A).

[0095] like Figure 6As shown in Figure A, the container 2 may further include a top portion 28, which is a planar structure with a polygonal cross-section. The top portion 28 is provided with lugs 32 extending outward from each side of the polygon. In the illustrated embodiment, the top portion 28 is decagonal; however, it should be understood that the top portion 28 can actually have any suitable shape. The shape of the top portion 28 preferably matches the cross-section of the portion connected to the outer casing 4. In use, the top portion 28 is configured to be positioned and extend between opposite side portions 16a, 16b of the body of the outer casing 4 (i.e., one end for substantially sealing the body of the outer casing 4). In the illustrated embodiment, the top portion 28 is configured to extend along a longitudinal axis generally perpendicular to the outer casing 4. However, it should be understood that the top portion 28 is not necessarily planar, and / or the top portion 28 can extend at any suitable angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing 4. The lugs on the top portion 28 can be used to connect with corresponding portions on the body of the outer casing 4. The top portion 28 is provided with an opening 31, which can serve as an outlet for the container 2 or be configured to accommodate a bottleneck (not shown in the figure).

[0096] like Figure 6 As shown in Figure B, the container 2 may further include a bottom portion 30, which has a planar structure with a polygonal cross-section. The bottom portion 30 is provided with lugs extending outward from each side of the polygon. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom portion 30 is decagonal; however, it should be understood that the bottom portion 30 can actually have any suitable shape. The shape of the bottom portion 30 preferably matches the cross-section of the portion connected to the outer casing 4. In use, the bottom portion 30 is configured to be positioned and extend between opposite side portions 16a, 16b of the body of the outer casing 4 (i.e., one end for substantially sealing the body of the outer casing 4). In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom portion 30 is configured to extend along a longitudinal axis substantially perpendicular to the outer casing 4; however, it should be understood that the bottom portion 30 is not necessarily planar, and / or the bottom portion 30 can extend at any suitable angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing 4. The lugs on the bottom portion 30 can be used to connect with corresponding portions on the body of the outer casing 4.

[0097] The top portion 28 and the bottom portion 30 can be made of the same material or different materials. Similarly, the top portion 28, the bottom portion 30, and the outer casing 4 can also be made of the same material or different materials. The top portion 28, the bottom portion 30, and the outer casing 4 can be made of paper, such as cardboard and / or paper (e.g., recycled cardboard and / or recycled paper). The paper can be kraft paper and / or unbleached paper.

[0098] like Figure 7As shown in A and 7B, the top portion 28 or the bottom portion 30 (e.g., the lugs of the top portion 28 or the bottom portion 30) can be heat-sealed to the body of the housing 4. The top portion 28 or the bottom portion 30 can be heat-sealed to the inner surface of the body of the housing 4 (e.g., Figure 7 As shown in A), it can also be heat-sealed onto the outer surface of the main body of the outer casing 4 (as shown in A). Figure 7 (As shown in B). The top portion 28 or the bottom portion 30 can be secured to the body of the housing 4 by any suitable means, such as using adhesive.

[0099] Before the outer shell 4 is formed, the inner surface of the outer shell 4, the inner surface of the top portion 28, and the inner surface of the bottom portion 30 are pre-coated with a wax layer (e.g., beeswax or candle wax). In some embodiments, the container 2 may also include a liner (not shown in the figures) located within the cavity of the outer shell 4. The liner is waterproof and can adhere to the inner surface of the outer shell 4 and / or the top portion 28.

[0100] like Figure 8 As shown, the top portion 28 of container 2 has an opening 30 for accommodating a bottleneck 34. The bottleneck 34 includes: a first end 36 with an inlet 38; a second end 40 opposite to the first end 36 with an outlet 42; and a channel (not shown) connecting the inlet and outlet. The channel extends between the first and second ends. The bottleneck 34 also has an outwardly extending flange 44 located at or adjacent to the first end 36, extending from the outer surface 46 of the bottleneck 34. The flange 44 has a generally circular cross-section. A threaded portion 48 is provided on the outer surface 46 of the second end 40. Container 2 is also equipped with a lid 50, which also has a threaded portion (not shown) and can be connected to the threaded portion 48 on the bottleneck 34. It should be noted that this container lid can adopt any suitable design, as long as it allows for a detachable connection with the bottleneck, and does not necessarily need to use a matching threaded structure.

[0101] like Figure 9 As shown, the bottom portion 30, the top portion 28, and the bottleneck 34 are all connected to the outer casing 4.

[0102] The first end 36 is inserted into the opening 30 of the top portion 28. The inner surface (not shown) of the top portion 28 abuts against the flange 44 adjacent to the first end 36 of the bottleneck 34. The channel 42 of the bottleneck 34 is in fluid communication with the cavity (not shown) of the housing 4.

[0103] Bottleneck 34 is made of pulp material.

[0104] The container 2 described in this invention is foldable and disposable. The container 2 is made of 100% biodegradable or recyclable materials.

[0105] like Figure 10 As shown, the foldable, disposable food or beverage container is made from a single sheet of paper. The paper is provided in the form of a pre-coated roll, the surface of which is pre-coated with a suitable waterproof coating, such as wax (e.g., beeswax). This roll of pre-coated paper is cut into specific, pre-designed patterns, the patterns consisting of multiple closely arranged shapes (e.g., polygons such as rhombuses or rectangles) with minimal gaps between them (step 101). Next, the cut pieces of the single sheet of paper are spliced ​​together, and the opposite edges are glued together using adhesive (step 102) to form a tubular outer shell 4 body. Subsequently, the outer shell 4 is placed in a mold 52, the mold's function being to give the body of the outer shell 4 a predetermined shape and size, and to form one or more crease lines (i.e., folds) (step 103). Then, the mold 52 is operated to apply pressure to the paper, causing the paper to adhere tightly to the inner wall of the mold, thereby producing a container with a predetermined shape, size, and one or more crease lines (step 104). After the pressing process is completed, the mold 52 is opened (step 105), and the outer shell 4 body is removed (step 106). Subsequently, a clamping force is applied in a direction approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing 4 (step 107), thereby placing the outer casing 4 in a first folded state (step 108).

[0106] like Figure 11 As shown, a roll of paper is provided, and blanks of multiple polygonal (e.g., decagonal) bottom portions 30 are cut from the paper according to a mosaic pattern (step 201). Each bottom portion 30 includes multiple lugs 54, each lug extending outward from the edge of the polygon. These lugs 54 are used to connect with corresponding portions of the main body of the housing 4.

[0107] Then, each bottom portion 30 is folded using the mold 56 to ensure that the lug 54 extends upward from the plane defined by the bottom portion (step 202).

[0108] The bottom part 30 is aligned with one end of the main body of the outer casing 4, and the outer casing 4 is through Figure 10 The lug 54 is manufactured using the process shown. The lug 54 is then connected to the corresponding part of the outer casing 4 by heat sealing (step 203).

[0109] like Figure 12 As shown, first, a mold 58 is prepared for making the bottle neck 34 and the bottle cap 50 (step 301). Then, a slurry made of paper and hot water is poured into the mold 58 (step 302). Subsequently, the mold is removed, and the formed bottle neck 34 and bottle cap 50 are dried, for example, by drying in an oven (step 303), thereby producing the bottle neck 34 and bottle cap 50.

[0110] Figure 13 The method of manufacturing the top portion 28 of container 2 is shown. A roll of paper is provided, and the paper is cut into blanks of multiple polygonal (e.g., decagonal) top portions 28 according to a mosaic pattern (step 401). Each top portion 28 includes multiple lugs 32, each lug extending outward from the edge of the polygon. These lugs 32 are used for connection with corresponding portions of the body of the outer casing 4.

[0111] Subsequently, each top portion 28 is folded using the mold 60 to ensure that the lug 32 extends upward from the plane defined by the top portion 28 (step 402).

[0112] The top portion 28 is aligned with one end of the main body of the outer casing 4, which is achieved through... Figure 10 The lug 32 is manufactured using the process shown. The lug 32 is then connected to the corresponding part of the outer shell 4 by heat sealing (step 403).

[0113] like Figure 14 As shown, container 2 is assembled by heat-sealing the bottom portion 30 to one end of the outer shell 4 body (step 501). The bottleneck 34 is placed in the opening 31 of the top portion 28, so that the flange 44 abuts against the inside of the top portion 28 (step 502). The top portion 28 is heat-sealed to the other end of the outer shell 4 body (step 503). Container 2 is then switched to a first folded configuration by compression, as shown in step 504. Container 2 is held in the first folded configuration by a strap-shaped fixing member 62; the fixing member is configured to connect the first end and the second end of container 2, thereby preventing the first end of the container from accidentally moving away from the second end.

[0114] Figure 15This demonstrates the use of the container described in this invention in an aviation scenario. When passengers pass through airport security, all liquids (including water) must be discarded (step 601). After passing through security, staff will hand container 2 to the passenger, at which point the container is in its first folded state (step 602). The passenger then unfolds container 2 to its second unfolded state (step 603) and fills it with water at a water station before boarding (step 604). The passenger then boards the aircraft (step 605). During the flight, the passenger uses the water directly from container 2 without receiving a traditional plastic water bottle or cup (step 606). The passenger can refill container 2 multiple times as needed during the flight (steps 607 and 608). The passenger can also choose to only partially fill container 2, thus adjusting the container's length as needed (between the first folded state and the second unfolded state) (step 609). After the passenger has finished using container 2, it can be opened (step 610). In the illustrated embodiment, a tear-away portion (which may include a weakened line, such as a perforated line, or a tear-away portion formed by a pull tab) is provided at or near the bottom of container 2. When container 2 is fully opened, its inner surface is completely exposed (step 611). Furthermore, container 2 is provided with a waterproof liner (e.g., a plastic liner layer) 64. Passengers can peel off this liner (step 612), and then the paper and plastic materials can be recycled separately at the airport (step 613).

Claims

1. A collapsible, disposable food or beverage container, said container comprising: An enclosure, the enclosure comprising: A first end portion, the first end portion including a top portion defining an outlet; A second end opposite to the first end, the second end including a bottom portion; and The side portion extends from the first end to the second end; A cavity for containing food or beverage is defined between the first end, the second end, and the side portion of the outer casing; the cavity is in fluid communication with the outlet. A longitudinal axis is defined between the first end and the second end of the outer casing; The container can switch between two forms: In the first folded configuration, one end or side portion of the outer shell is located at or adjacent to the corresponding opposite end or side portion. In the second unfolded configuration, one end or side portion of the outer shell maintains a distance from the corresponding opposite end or side portion, thereby providing the cavity; The outer shell is made entirely of paper, and the entire container is suitable for home composting and / or is biodegradable.

2. The foldable, disposable food or beverage container according to claim 1, wherein the container is movable along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outer shell, wherein: In the first folded configuration, the first end of the outer casing is located at or immediately adjacent to the second end; and In the second unfolded configuration, the first and second ends of the outer shell are spaced apart to provide the cavity.

3. The foldable, disposable food or beverage container of claim 1, wherein the container is movable in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the outer shell, wherein: In the first folded configuration, the first side portion of the outer casing is located at or immediately adjacent to the opposing second side portion; and In the second unfolded configuration, the first side portion of the outer shell is spaced apart from the opposite second side portion to provide the cavity.

4. A foldable, disposable food or beverage container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container can be switched between a first folded form and a second unfolded form during use by rotating the first end relative to the second end.

5. The foldable, disposable food or beverage container of claim 4, wherein the container is configured such that, in use, the first end is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the outer shell relative to the second end.

6. The foldable, disposable food or beverage container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the outer shell comprises a body made of a single sheet of paper material; the opposite ends of the single sheet of paper material are fixed together to provide an outer shell body defining the cavity.

7. The foldable, disposable food or beverage container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the inner surface of the outer shell is coated with a waterproof coating.

8. The collapsible, disposable food or beverage container according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising an inner liner located within the outer shell cavity; the inner liner being for holding food or beverage.

9. The collapsible, disposable food or beverage container of claim 8, wherein the liner is made of a biodegradable or recyclable plastic material.

10. A foldable, disposable food or beverage container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the outer shell comprises a body having at least one longitudinal crease extending primarily between the first end and the second end.

11. The foldable, disposable food or beverage container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the outer shell comprises a body having at least one transverse crease extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the outer shell.

12. The foldable, disposable food or beverage container according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the body includes at least one oblique crease, the oblique crease intersecting the longitudinal crease and the transverse crease at a certain angle.

13. The collapsible, disposable food or beverage container according to any one of claims 12-14, wherein the container comprises: Multiple evenly spaced longitudinal creases extend mainly between the first end and the second end; Multiple evenly spaced transverse creases, extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing; and Multiple evenly spaced diagonal creases, which intersect the longitudinal and transverse creases at a certain angle.

14. The foldable, disposable food or beverage container according to claim 14, wherein, At least one of the longitudinal crease, transverse crease, and diagonal crease is a mountain-shaped crease, and at least one of the longitudinal crease, transverse crease, and diagonal crease is a valley crease.

15. The collapsible, disposable food or beverage container of claim 15, wherein the container comprises: Multiple evenly spaced longitudinal creases extend mainly between the first end and the second end; Multiple evenly spaced transverse creases, extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing; and Multiple evenly spaced diagonal creases, which intersect the longitudinal crease and the transverse crease at a certain angle; Among them, the longitudinal crease is a mountain-shaped crease, the transverse crease is a mountain-shaped crease, and the diagonal crease is a valley crease.

16. The collapsible, disposable food or beverage container of claim 15, wherein the container comprises: Multiple evenly spaced longitudinal creases extend mainly between the first end and the second end; Multiple evenly spaced transverse creases, extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the outer casing; and Multiple evenly spaced diagonal creases, which intersect the longitudinal crease and the transverse crease at a certain angle; Among them, the longitudinal crease is a mountain-shaped crease, the transverse crease is a valley crease, and the diagonal crease is a mountain-shaped crease.

17. A collapsible, disposable food or beverage container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container has a polygonal cross-section.

18. A collapsible, disposable food or beverage container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the top portion and / or bottom portion is heat-sealed to a side portion of the body of the outer casing.

19. A foldable, disposable food or beverage container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the top portion is provided with a neck, a nozzle, or a spout defining a channel that is in fluid communication with a cavity of the outer shell during use; the neck, nozzle, and spout are all made of pulp material.

20. The foldable, disposable food or beverage container according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a securing member for preventing the container from accidentally switching from a first folded configuration to a second unfolded configuration.

21. The foldable, disposable food or beverage container of claim 21, wherein the fixing component is made of paper.

22. The foldable, disposable food or beverage container of claim 21 or 22, wherein the securing member is movable between a first position and a second position; in the first position, the securing member is used to hold the container in a first folded configuration; and in the second position, the securing member is secured to at least a portion of the outer shell, thereby enabling a user to carry the container using the securing member.

23. A method for manufacturing a collapsible, disposable food or beverage container, comprising the following steps: Obtain a mold for manufacturing a housing having a predetermined shape, size, and one or more indentation lines; Obtain the paper material and place it on the mold; An external force is applied to press the paper material onto a mold, thereby producing a shell with a predetermined shape, size, and one or more indentation lines.

24. The method of claim 24, wherein a single sheet of paper is used to make the body of the outer casing.

25. The method according to claim 24 or 25, wherein the mold is provided with one or more protrusions and / or indentations at a predetermined position.

26. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 26, further comprising: Before placing the paper on the mold, apply a waterproof coating to the inner surface of the paper.

27. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 27, further comprising: Before placing the paper material on the mold, the opposite ends of the paper material are fixed to define the tubular outer shell body.

28. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 28, further comprising: The top and bottom portions are respectively connected to the opposite ends of the housing body.

29. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 29, further comprising: The bottleneck is attached to the top portion of the housing.

Images