Double ended cosmetic container

Abstract

A double-ended container is provided for use with a product, such as a cosmetic product or an applicator. More specifically, a double-ended container having a compact integrated mechanism is disclosed for selectively extending and retracting a first product or applicator while a second product or applicator does not move. The double-ended container includes: a first cup body; a second cup body, at least partially contained within the first cup body; and a drive member assembly, between the first cup body and the second cup body, including a first drive member and a second drive member. The first cup body has a first male thread, the second cup body has a second male thread, the first drive member has a first female thread, and the second drive member has a second female thread. The first male thread interacts with the first female thread to extend and retract the first cup body. The second male thread interacts with the second female thread to extend and retract the second cup body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to dual-ended containers for applying personal products, such as cosmetic products. More particularly, dual-ended containers having a compact integrated mechanism for selectively extending and retracting a first product without moving a second product are disclosed. Background Art

[0002] The cosmetics industry is a large industry and provides countless products to consumers. Many consumers use multiple cosmetic products in a day. Therefore, these consumers carry their preferred products in their personal belongings (such as handbags). Typically, each individual product is contained in its own container, but there are some containers that contain two or more cosmetic products.

[0003] However, conventional dual cosmetic containers are bulky because they require two different mechanisms, each of which takes up a significant amount of space in the container.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for improved double ended containers. Summary of the invention

[0005] In one example, a double-ended container includes: a first cup body; a second cup body, the first and second cup bodies facing in opposite directions and aligned along the longitudinal axis of the double-ended container; and a drive member assembly positioned between the first cup body and the second cup body and adapted to selectively move the first cup body and the second cup body, wherein the drive member assembly includes: a first drive member having a first threaded member connected to the first cup body, the first threaded member having an internal volume; and a second drive member having a second threaded member, the second threaded member connected to the second cup body and at least partially disposed within the internal volume of the first threaded member.

[0006] In another example, a double-ended container includes: a drive member assembly, including a first drive member and a second drive member, the first drive member having an internal volume with a first female thread formed therein, the second drive member having an internal volume with a second female thread formed therein, the second drive member being combined with the first drive member to form the drive member assembly; a first cup body connected to a first side of the first drive member, the first cup body having an internal volume and an outer surface, the outer surface having a first male thread formed thereon; and a second cup body connected to a second side of the drive member, the second cup body having an outer surface, the outer surface having a second male thread formed thereon, wherein a diameter of the outer surface of the second cup body is smaller than a diameter of the internal volume of the first cup body, and the second cup body is at least partially accommodated within the internal volume of the first cup body.

[0007] In yet another example, a method for filling a double ended container includes filling a first cup of a first double ended container portion with a first product; filling a second cup of a second double ended container portion with a second product; and coupling the first double ended container portion to the second double ended container portion.

[0008] In summary, the present disclosure generally relates to double-ended containers for products, such as cosmetic products. More specifically, a double-ended container having a compact integrated mechanism is disclosed for selectively extending and retracting a first product or product applicator while a second product or product applicator does not move. The double-ended container includes: a first cup body; a second cup body, at least partially contained within the first cup body; and a drive member assembly, between the first cup body and the second cup body. The first cup body has a first male thread, the second cup body has a second male thread, and the first drive member has a first female thread, and the second drive member has a second female thread. The first male thread interacts with the first female thread to extend and retract the first cup body. The second male thread interacts with the second female thread to extend and retract the second cup body. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] In order that the manner in which the features of the present disclosure are set forth above may be understood in detail, a more particular description of the present disclosure, briefly summarized above, may be obtained by reference to examples, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted, however, that the accompanying drawings illustrate only typical examples of the present disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, as the present disclosure may include other equally effective examples.

[0010] Figure 1A is a front view of a double-ended container according to one example.

[0011] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A Schematic cross-sectional view of a double-ended container.

[0012] Figure 2A yes Figure 1B Exploded cross-sectional view of a double-ended container.

[0013] Figure 2B yes Figure 1B Exploded isometric view of a double-ended container.

[0014] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the drive member is shown in FIG.

[0015] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a double-ended container according to another example.

[0016] Figure 4 is a front view of a double-ended container according to yet another example.

[0017] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a first cup and a second cup of a double-ended container according to yet another example.

[0018] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a double-ended container according to another example.

[0019] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Exploded cross-sectional view of a double-ended container.

[0020] To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. It is contemplated that elements and features of one example may be beneficially included in another example without further recitation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The present disclosure generally relates to a double-ended container for applying personal products, such as cosmetic products. The double-ended container has a compact integrated mechanism for selectively extending and retracting a first product or a first applicator from one end of the container, while a second product or a second applicator disposed at the opposite end of the container does not move, and vice versa. The double-ended container includes: a first cup body; a second cup body; and a drive member assembly disposed between the first cup body and the second cup body, including a first drive member and a second drive member. The first cup body has a first male thread, the second cup body has a second male thread, the first drive member has a first female thread, and the second drive member has a second female thread. The first male thread interacts with the first female thread to extend and retract the first cup body, while the second cup body does not move. The second male thread interacts with the second female thread to extend and retract the second cup body, while the first cup body does not move. This selective extension enables a consumer to select a product or applicator to be used and advance only that product or applicator without having to extend another product or applicator.

[0022] Figure 1A 1 is a front view of a double ended container 100 according to one example. The double ended container 100 is configured to contain a first product 124 and a second product 126. The double ended container 100 has a longitudinal axis 102.

[0023] Figure 1B yes Figure 1ASchematic cross-sectional view of a double-ended container 100. The double-ended container 100 includes a drive member 110, which is located between a first cup 112 and a second cup 114 along a longitudinal axis 102. A first shell 116 surrounds the first cup 112, and a second shell 118 surrounds the second cup 114. A first cap 120 is coupled to the first shell 116, and a second cap 122 is coupled to the second shell 118. The first cup 112 is configured to hold a first product 124, and the second cup 114 is configured to hold a second product 126. For example, the first cup 112 may include a product container portion 130 for holding the first product 124. Similarly, the second cup 114 may include a product container portion 132 for holding the second product 126.

[0024] The double-ended container 100 includes a threaded area 123 that enables one or both of the first cup 112 and the second cup 114 to move along the longitudinal axis 102 when relative movement is provided between the drive member 110 and the first cup 112 or the second cup 114. The first cup 112 is adapted to move along the longitudinal axis 102 within an enlarged interior area 125 of the first shell 116. Likewise, the second cup 114 is adapted to move along the longitudinal axis 102 within an enlarged interior area 127 of the second shell 118. The first shell 116 may include a stop mechanism, such as a first stop 128 that interacts with a shoulder 134 extending radially outward from the product container portion 130. When the first cup 112 moves away from the drive member 110 along the longitudinal axis 102, the shoulder 134 contacts the first stop 128 to prevent additional movement of the first cup 112 along the longitudinal axis 102. Likewise, the second housing 118 may include a stop mechanism, such as a second stop 129 that interacts with a shoulder 136 extending radially outward from the product container portion 132. When the second cup 114 moves along the longitudinal axis 102 away from the drive member 110, the shoulder 136 contacts the second stop 129 to prevent additional movement of the second cup 114 along the longitudinal axis 102.

[0025] Figure 2A yes Figure 1B An exploded cross-sectional view of a double-ended container 100 . Figure 2B yes Figure 1B An exploded isometric view of a double-ended container 100 . Figure 2C FIG. 1 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the driving member 110. Figures 2A-2CAs shown in FIG. 1 , the drive member 110 is a hollow body enclosing an interior volume 234 and having a groove / cutout 236 toward the proximal end. In addition, the drive member 110 has a first threaded member 230 near the proximal portion or first side and a second threaded member 232 near the distal portion or second side. A portion of the first cup 112 is received in the interior volume 234 in the proximal portion of the drive member, and a portion of the second cup 114 is received in the interior volume 234 in the distal portion of the drive member 110. Figure 2A-2B , the first cup 112 has an interior volume 213 and an exterior surface 215 having a first male thread 217 formed thereon. The second cup 114 has an interior volume 219 and an exterior surface 221 having a second male thread 223 formed thereon. The diameter of the exterior surface 221 is smaller than the diameter of the interior volume 213, so that the second cup 114 is at least partially accommodated within the interior volume 213 of the first cup 112. The first threaded member 230 is engaged with the first male thread 217, and the second threaded member 232 is engaged with the second male thread 223.

[0026] The first male thread 217 and the second male thread 223 may be right-handed threads, the first male thread 217 and the second male thread 223 may be left-handed threads, the first male thread 217 may be a right-handed thread and the second male thread 223 may be a left-handed thread, or the first male thread 217 may be a left-handed thread and the second male thread 223 may be a right-handed thread.

[0027] Each of the drive member 110, the first cup body 112, the second cup body 114, the first shell 116, the second shell 118, the first cap 120 and the second cap 122 can be made of plastic or any other suitable material. In one example, the first product 124 and the second product 126 can be cosmetic products, such as lipstick, lip gloss, foundation, mascara, eyeliner, eye shadow or blush. Additionally, one or both of the first product 124 and the second product 126 can be replaced with a cosmetic applicator, such as a sponge or a brush. In another example, the first product 124 and the second product 126 can be personal care products, such as deodorant. In yet another example, one or both of the first product 124 and the second product 126 can be skin care products. In an even further example, the first product 124 and the second product 126 can be hair care products or pet products. In a still further example, the first product 124 and the second product 126 can be dental products.

[0028] The first cap 120 and the second cap 122 are removable from the first shell 116 and the second shell 118, respectively. Figure 2A and Figure 2B, the first cap 120 has a flat top surface 120A, while the second cap 122 has a tapered top surface 122A. According to other optional examples, the first cap 120 and the second cap 122 may have other desired shapes. The first cap 120 may be sized to be removably snap-fitted to the first shell 116, or to be interference fit with the first shell 116. The second cap 122 may be sized to loosely cover the second shell 118. Because the second cap 122 loosely covers the second shell 118, the second cup 114 and therefore the second product 126 cannot be accidentally actuated when the second cap 122 is still on it. In order for the second product 126 to actuate and translate along the longitudinal axis 102 of the double-ended container 100, the consumer must intentionally remove the second cap 122.

[0029] The drive member 110 is engaged with the first housing 116 and the second housing 118 such that the drive member 110 is rotatable relative to the first housing 116 and the second housing 118, respectively. In operation, when the first housing 116 is rotated relative to the drive member 110 and the first cup 112 is rotationally restrained relative to the first housing 116, the first cup 112 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 102 of the double-ended container 100. Optionally, when the drive member 110 is rotated relative to the first housing 116 and the first cup 112 is rotationally restrained relative to the first housing 116, the first cup 112 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 102 of the double-ended container 100. More specifically, rotating the first housing 116 or the drive member 110 causes the first male thread 217 to engage with the first threaded member 230. In a first direction (e.g., toward the left side of the page, as shown in FIG. 2 ), the first male thread 217 is engaged with the first threaded member 230. Figures 1A-2C ) rotates the first housing 116 or the drive member 110 to extend the first cup 112 and the first product 124 longitudinally out of the double-ended container 100, and in a second direction (e.g., toward the right side of the page, as shown in Figures 1A-2C ) rotating the first housing 116 or drive member 110 causes the first cup 112 and the first product 124 to be longitudinally retracted into the double-ended container 100.

[0030] Similarly, when the second housing 118 is rotated relative to the drive member 110 and the second cup 114 is rotationally restrained relative to the second housing 118, the second cup 114 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 102 of the double-ended container 100. Optionally, when the drive member 110 is rotated relative to the second housing 118 and the second cup 114 is rotationally restrained relative to the second housing 118, the second cup 114 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 102 of the double-ended container 100. Rotating the second housing 118 or the drive member 110 causes the second male thread 223 to engage with the second threaded member 232. In a first direction, for example, clockwise (towards the left side of the page, as shown in FIG. 1 ), the second male thread 223 engages with the second threaded member 232. Figures 1A-2C) rotates the second housing 118 or the drive member 110 to cause the second cup 114 and the second product 126 to extend longitudinally out of the double-ended container 100, and in a second direction, for example, counterclockwise (toward the right side of the page, such as Figures 1A-2C ) rotating the second housing 118 or drive member 110 causes the second cup 114 and the second product 126 to be longitudinally retracted into the double-ended container 100.

[0031] One or more of the first stop 128, the second stop 129, and the groove 236 can prevent disassembly of the components of the double-ended container 100. When the first cup 112 is extended by the rotation of the first shell 116 relative to the drive member 110, the first cup 112 can be prevented from over-extending from the double-ended container 100 by the first stop 128 of the first shell 116. The first stop 128 is an inwardly extending protrusion of the first shell 116, and the first cup 112 cannot pass through the protrusion. Similarly, the second cup 114 can be prevented from over-extending from the double-ended container 100 by the second stop 129 of the second shell 118. The second stop 129 is an inwardly extending protrusion of the second shell 118, and the second cup 114 cannot pass through the protrusion. Additionally, Figure 2C The groove 236 shown in FIG. 2 weakens the reaction force of the first threaded member 230. In other words, the groove 236 prevents the first cup 112 from forcing the first housing 116 and the drive member 110 to separate.

[0032] Figure 3 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a double-ended container 300 according to another example. The double-ended container 300 is similar to the double-ended container 100, except that the second cup is replaced by a vial 340. Figure 3 , the first cup 312 holds a vial 340. The vial 340 can contain a second product. For example, the vial 340 can contain a lip gloss, perfume, skin care solution, dental solution, pet care solution, or other product. Optionally, the second cup 314 can be configured to hold a box for dispensing the product. The vial 340 or the optional box can be plastic, glass, or any other suitable material.

[0033] In operation, when the first housing 316 rotates relative to the drive member 310 and the first cup 312 is rotationally restrained relative to the first housing 316, the first cup 312 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 302 of the double ended container 300. Alternatively, when the drive member 310 rotates relative to the first housing 316 and the first cup 312 is rotationally restrained relative to the first housing 316, the first cup 312 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 302 of the double ended container 300. In this example, the vial 340 does not move axially along the longitudinal axis 302 of the double ended container 300. Instead, the vial 340 remains stationary in the double ended container 300, and the consumer can remove the second cap 322 disposed over the vial 340 to access the product contained within the vial 340.

[0034] Figure 4 is a front view of a double ended container 400 according to yet another example. The double ended container 400 is similar to the double ended container 100, except that the second cup is configured to hold an applicator 450. Examples of the applicator 450 include a sponge, a brush, a spatula, a flocked tip, a non-flocked tip, and the like.

[0035] Although the example described above contemplates that the first threaded member 230 and the second threaded member 232 are disposed on the drive member 110, in yet another example, the first threaded member 230 and the second threaded member 232 may be disposed in the first housing 116 and the second housing 118, respectively. Disposing the first threaded member 230 in the first housing 116 and the second threaded member 232 in the second housing 118 may result in a more integrated mechanism, which may further shorten the length of the double-ended container 100.

[0036] Figure 5 is a perspective view of another example of a first cup 512 and a second cup 514 that can be used in a double-ended container 100 according to yet another example. The first cup 512 has an interior volume 564 and an exterior surface 560 having a first male thread 517 formed thereon. The second cup 514 has an interior volume 566 and an exterior surface 562 having a second male thread 523 formed thereon. In one example, the first male thread 517 and the second male thread 523 are staggered. The diameter of the exterior surface 560 of the first cup 512 and the diameter of the exterior surface 562 of the second cup 514 are equal. The interior volume 564 of the first cup 512 and the interior volume 566 of the second cup 514 can also be equal.

[0037] In operation, the first male thread 517 of the first cup 512 interacts with a first threaded member of the drive member 110 (not shown), which may be modified to operate according to the configuration of the first cup 512 and the second cup 514, and the second male thread 523 interacts with a second threaded member of the drive member 110. When the first housing 116 (which is modified to accommodate the configuration of the first cup 512) is rotated relative to the drive member 110 and the first cup 512 is rotationally restrained relative to the first housing 116, the first cup 512 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 102 of the double-ended container 100. Alternatively, when the drive member 110 is rotated relative to the first housing 116 and the first cup 512 is rotationally restrained relative to the first housing 116, the first cup 512 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 102 of the double-ended container 100. More specifically, rotating the first housing 116 or the drive member 110 causes the first male thread 517 to engage with the first threaded member 230. In one example, the first threaded member 230 can be a first female thread. Rotating the first housing 116 or the drive member 110 in a first direction causes the first cup 512 and the first product 124 to extend longitudinally out of the double-ended container 100, while rotating the first housing 116 or the drive member 110 in a second direction causes the first cup 512 and the first product 124 to retract longitudinally into the double-ended container 100.

[0038] Similarly, when the second housing 118 (which is modified to accommodate the configuration of the second cup 514) is rotated relative to the drive member 110 and the second cup 514 is rotationally restrained relative to the second housing 118, the second cup 514 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 102 of the double-ended container 100. Alternatively, when the drive member 110 is rotated relative to the second housing 118 and the second cup 514 is rotationally restrained relative to the second housing 118, the second cup 514 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 102 of the double-ended container 100. Rotating the second housing 118 or the drive member 110 causes the second male thread 523 to engage with the second threaded member 232, which may be modified to accommodate the configuration of the second cup 514. Rotating the second housing 118 or drive member 110 in a first direction longitudinally extends the second cup 514 and the second product 126 out of the double ended container 100 , while rotating the second housing 118 or drive member 110 in a second direction longitudinally retracts the second cup 514 and the second product 126 into the double ended container 100 .

[0039] An advantage of the present disclosure is that the overall length of the double-ended cosmetic container is reduced due to the use of an integrated mechanism in which the second cup is partially contained within the first cup. In other words, by fitting the second extension and retraction mechanism therein, the present disclosure uses the space required for a single extension and retraction mechanism. These integrated mechanisms allow two cosmetic products to extend and retract from opposite ends of the container independently of each other. Another advantage of the present disclosure is that the mechanism described herein is designed to prevent accidental actuation of the cosmetic product. More specifically, the only shell and therefore the product that will be actuated and extended and retracted along the length of the container is the product desired by the consumer.

[0040] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a double-ended container 600 according to another example. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 600. The double ended container 600 is similar to the double ended container 100. However, the double ended container 600 includes a first drive member 607 and a second drive member 608, which when coupled together form a drive member assembly 611. In addition to the advantages described above, the use of separate and distinct first and second drive members 607, 608 allows each end of the double ended container 600 to be individually filled with product to reduce production time and protect the filled product during subsequent assembly.

[0041] The double-ended container 600 includes a first subassembly 671 and a second subassembly 673. The first subassembly includes a first cup 612 surrounded by a first shell 616 and a first drive member 607. A first cap 620 is coupled to the first shell 616. The second subassembly 673 includes a second cup 614 surrounded by a second shell 618 and a second drive member 608. A second cap 622 is coupled to the second shell 618. Figure 6-7 , the second housing 618 includes a first recessed channel 631 configured to receive a portion 669 of the second drive member 608. Additionally, the second drive member 608 is configured to surround a portion of the second cup 614 and thereby stabilize the second cup 614 within the second drive member 608 and the second housing 618 when the double-ended container 600 is in two subassemblies (the first subassembly 671 and the second subassembly 673).

[0042] When the first subassembly 671 and the second subassembly 673 are coupled together, as described in more detail below, the first drive member 607 and the second drive member 608 are located between the first cup 612 and the second cup 614 along the longitudinal axis 602. Each of the first drive member 607, the second drive member 608, the first cup 612, the second cup 614, the first shell 616, the second shell 618, the first cap 620 and the second cap 622 can be made of plastic or any other suitable material.

[0043] The first cup body 612 is configured to hold a first product 624. For example, the first cup body 612 generally includes a product container portion 630 for holding the first product 624. The second cup body 614 is configured to hold a second product 626. Similarly, the second cup body 614 generally includes a product container portion 632 for holding the second product 626. In one example, the first product 624 and the second product 626 include a cosmetic product, such as a lipstick, a lip gloss, a foundation, a mascara, an eyeliner, an eye shadow, or a blush. In another example, one or both of the first product 624 and the second product 626 can be replaced with a cosmetic applicator, such as a sponge or a brush. In yet another example, the first product 624 and the second product 626 are personal care products, such as deodorants. In still further examples, one or both of the first product 624 and the second product 626 are skin care products. In even further examples, the first product 624 and the second product 626 can be hair care products or pet products.

[0044] The double-ended container 600 includes a threaded region 639 that enables one or both of the first cup 612 and the second cup 614 to move along the longitudinal axis 602 when relative rotational movement is provided between the drive member assembly 611 and the first cup 612 or the second cup 614. The first cup 612 is adapted to move along the longitudinal axis 602 within the enlarged interior region 625 of the first shell 616. Likewise, the second cup 614 is adapted to move along the longitudinal axis 602 within the enlarged interior region 627 of the second shell 618.

[0045] like Figure 7, the first drive member 607 is a hollow body surrounding an internal volume 654 and has a slot portion 656, such as a T-shaped slot, groove or other cutout, toward a first end 657. The second end 659 is opposite the first end 657. In addition, the first drive member 607 has a first threaded member 651, which is a female threaded member. The second drive member 608 has an internal volume 667, which has a second threaded member 661 near the first end 658, which is a female threaded member. The second drive member 608 also includes a coupling member 663 near the first end 658. The coupling member 663 is configured to couple the second drive member 608 to the second housing 618, for example, by snapping into the first recessed channel 631, or otherwise coupling with the first recessed channel 631. A portion 675 of the first cup 612 is received in the internal volume 654. A portion 677 of the second cup 614 is received in the interior volume 667. The first cup 612 has an interior volume 613 and an outer surface 615 having a first male thread 617 formed thereon. The second cup 614 has an interior volume 619 and an outer surface 621 having a second male thread 623 formed thereon. The diameter of the outer surface 621 is smaller than the diameter of the interior volume 613, so that the second cup 614 is at least partially accommodated within the interior volume 613 of the first cup 612 when the double-ended container 600 is finally assembled. The first threaded member 651 of the first drive member 607 engages with the first male thread 617 of the first cup 612, and the second threaded member 661 of the second drive member 608 engages with the second male thread 623 of the second cup 614.

[0046] As shown, the first male thread 617 is a right-hand thread, and the second male thread 623 is a right-hand thread. In another example that may be combined with one or more examples described herein, the first male thread 617 and the second male thread 623 are left-hand threads. In another example that may be combined with one or more examples described herein, the first male thread 617 is a right-hand thread, and the second male thread 623 is a left-hand thread. In yet another example that may be combined with one or more examples described herein, the first male thread 617 is a left-hand thread, and the second male thread 623 is a right-hand thread.

[0047] The first cap 620 can be removed from the first housing 616 to expose the first product 624 for use. When the first product 624 is not in use, the first cap 620 is generally used to cover the first product 624. The second cap 622 can be removed from the second housing 618 to expose the second product 626 for use. When the second product 626 is not in use, the second cap 622 is generally used to cover the second product 626. Figure 6-7, the first cap 620 has a flat top surface 620A, and the second cap 622 has a flat top surface 622A. It is also contemplated that one or more of the top surfaces 620A, 622A are tapered. According to other optional examples, the first cap 620 and the second cap 622 may have other desired shapes. The first cap 620 may be sized to removably snap fit to the first housing 616, or to have an interference fit with the first housing 616. The second cap 622 may be sized to loosely cover the second housing 618.

[0048] By providing relative rotational movement between the first housing 616 and the drive member assembly 611, the first cup 612 can be moved along the longitudinal axis 602 of the double-ended container 600. By providing relative rotational movement between the second housing 618 and the drive member assembly 611, the second cup 614 can be moved along the longitudinal axis 602 of the double-ended container 600.

[0049] The first drive member 607 is engaged with the first shell 616 and the second shell 618. The first drive member 607 is rotatable relative to the first shell 616. The first drive member 607 is rotatable relative to the second shell 618. In operation, when the first shell 616 is rotated relative to the first drive member 607 and the first cup 612 is rotationally restrained relative to the first shell 616, the first cup 612 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 602 of the double-ended container 600. Optionally, when the first drive member 607 is rotated relative to the first shell 616 and the first cup 612 is rotationally restrained relative to the first shell 616, the first cup 612 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 602 of the double-ended container 600. More specifically, rotating the first shell 616 or the first drive member 607 causes the first male thread 617 to engage with the first threaded member 651. In a first direction (e.g., toward the left side of the page, as shown in FIG. 2 ), the first male thread 617 is engaged with the first threaded member 651. Figure 6-7 ) rotating the first housing 616 or the first drive member 607 to advance the first cup 612 and the first product 624 axially away from the second cup 614 to expose the first product 624 for use, while in a second direction (e.g., toward the right side of the page, as shown in Figure 6-7 ) rotating the first shell 616 or the first drive member 607 causes the first cup 612 and the first product 624 to longitudinally retract toward the second cup 614 of the double-ended container 600 to allow the first cap 620 to surround and cover the first product 624.

[0050] Similarly, when the second housing 618 is rotated relative to the first drive member 607 and the second cup 614 is rotationally restrained relative to the second housing 618, the second cup 614 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 602 of the double-ended container 600. Optionally, when the first drive member 607 is rotated relative to the second housing 618 and the second cup 614 is rotationally restrained relative to the second housing 618, the second cup 614 moves axially along the longitudinal axis 602 of the double-ended container 600. Rotating the second housing 618 or the first drive member 607 causes the second male thread 623 to engage with the second threaded member 661. In a first direction, for example, clockwise (towards the left side of the page, as shown in FIG. 1 ), the second male thread 623 is engaged with the second threaded member 661. Figure 6-7 ) rotate the second housing 618 or the first drive member 607 to advance the second cup 614 and the second product 626 axially away from the first cup 612 to expose the second product 626 for use, while in a second direction, such as counterclockwise (towards the right side of the page, such as Figure 6-7 ) rotating the second shell 618 or the first drive member 607 causes the second cup body 614 and the second product 626 to be longitudinally retracted toward the first cup body 612 to allow the second cap 622 to surround and cover the second product 626.

[0051] As described above, once finally assembled, the double-ended container 600 is similar to the double-ended container 100 disclosed herein. Similar to the double-ended container 100, the double-ended container 600 may also include various stop mechanisms and shoulders to prevent over-extension of the product and disassembly of the various components of the double-ended container 600. For example, the first housing 616 may include a stop mechanism, such as, Figures 1A-2B The first stop 128 shown in FIG. 1 , the stop mechanism interacts with the shoulder, such as, Figures 1A-2B 60. The shoulder 134 is shown extending radially outward from the product container portion 630. When the first cup 612 moves along the longitudinal axis 602 away from the first drive member 607, the shoulder contacts the first stopper to prevent additional movement of the first cup 612 along the longitudinal axis 602.

[0052] Likewise, the second housing 618 may include a stop mechanism, such as, Figures 1A-2B The second stop 129 shown in FIG. 1 interacts with the shoulder, such as, Figures 1A-2B 607. As the second cup 614 moves away from the first drive member 607 along the longitudinal axis 602, the shoulder contacts the second stopper to prevent additional movement of the second cup 614 along the longitudinal axis 602. Additionally, the slot portion 656 weakens the reaction force of the first threaded member 651. In other words, the slot portion 656 prevents the first cup 612 from forcing the first housing 616 and the first drive member 607 apart.

[0053] As discussed above, the first subassembly 671 and the second subassembly 673 of the double-ended container 600 are configured to be joined together. The first subassembly 671 and the second subassembly 673 may be joined by any suitable joining technique. Suitable joining techniques include, but are not limited to, snap fit, press fit, bonding, welding, threaded engagement, and quarterturned fastening. Figure 6-7 As shown in FIG. 6 , the first drive member 607 and the second drive member 608 are configured to be joined together to form a drive member assembly 611. For example, the second drive member 608 includes a recessed portion 665 configured to receive a portion of the first cup 612.

[0054] Thus, the product container portions 630 and 632 of the first cup 612 and the second cup 614 can each be filled separately, while the double-ended container 600 is divided into a first subassembly 671 and a second subassembly 673. Then, the first subassembly 671 and the second subassembly 673 can be joined together. The method of assembling a double-ended container according to the examples disclosed herein generally includes: forming a first double-ended container portion including a first cup, the first cup being coupled to a first housing and a first drive member; forming a second double-ended container portion including a second cup, the second cup being coupled to a second housing and a second drive member; filling the first cup with a first product; filling the second cup with a second product; and then coupling the first double-ended container portion to the second double-ended container portion after filling. In general, the filled product moves downward, and a cap is disposed above the filled product in each of the first double-ended container portions, after which the first double-ended container portions are joined together to protect the filled product. A mold can be used to fill and form a product in a desired shape for a double-ended container. For example, when the product is a cosmetic product such as lipstick or foundation, the mold is generally used to form the product into a bullet shape.

[0055] Separately filling the first cup 612 and the second cup 614 reduces production time and provides protection for the product during filling and assembly.

[0056] While the foregoing is directed to examples of the present disclosure, other and further examples of the disclosure may be envisaged without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope of which is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. Double-ended container, comprising: First cup body; a second cup, the first and second cups facing in opposite directions and aligned along a longitudinal axis of the double ended container; as well as a driving member assembly, positioned between the first cup body and the second cup body, and adapted to selectively move the first cup body and the second cup body, wherein the driving member assembly comprises: a first drive member having a first threaded member coupled to the first cup, the first threaded member having an interior volume; and a second drive member having a second threaded member coupled to the second cup and at least partially disposed within the interior volume of the first threaded member; Wherein, the second drive member includes a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the first cup body.

2. The double-ended container of claim 1, wherein: The first threaded member has a first female thread that engages a first male thread disposed on the first cup, and wherein the second threaded member has a second female thread that engages a second male thread disposed on the second cup.

3. The double-ended container of claim 1 , further comprising: A first shell is arranged on the first cup body; as well as The second shell is arranged on the second cup body.

4. A double-ended container according to claim 3, wherein: The second drive member is at least partially disposed in the second housing.

5. The double-ended container of claim 3, wherein: The first cup is movable along the longitudinal axis of the double ended container by providing relative rotational movement between the first housing and the drive member assembly.

6. The double-ended container of claim 1, wherein: The first drive member and the second drive member are separate and distinct to accommodate separate filling of the first cup and the second cup.

7. The double-ended container of claim 1, wherein: The first drive member and the second drive member are joined together.

8. Double-ended container, comprising: The drive component assembly comprises: a first drive member having an interior volume formed therein having first female threads; and a second drive member having an interior volume formed therein with a second female thread, the second drive member being coupled to the first drive member to form the drive member assembly; a first cup coupled to the first drive member, the first cup having an interior volume and an outer surface having a first male thread formed thereon; and a second cup coupled to the second drive member, the second cup having an outer surface with a second male thread formed thereon, the outer surface of the second cup having a diameter smaller than a diameter of the interior volume of the first cup, and the second cup being at least partially received within the interior volume of the first cup; Wherein, the second drive member includes a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the first cup body.

9. The double-ended container of claim 8, further comprising: A first shell is arranged on the first cup body; as well as The second shell is arranged on the second cup body.

10. A double-ended container according to claim 9, wherein: A portion of the second drive member is disposed within the interior volume of the first drive member, and wherein a portion of the second housing is disposed within the interior volume of the second drive member.

11. The double-ended container of claim 9, wherein: The second housing includes a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the second drive member.

12. The double-ended container of claim 8, wherein: The first drive member and the second drive member are joined by a snap fit, a press fit, bonding, welding, one or more screws, or quarter-turn fasteners.

13. The double-ended container of claim 8, wherein: The first male thread is engaged with the first female thread, and wherein the second male thread is engaged with the second female thread.

14. The double-ended container of claim 8, further comprising: a first product, coupled to the first cup; as well as A second product is coupled to the second cup.

15. A double-ended container according to claim 14, wherein: The first product and the second product are products selected from the group consisting of cosmetic products, skin care products, dental products, personal care products, cosmetic applicators, and pet products.

16. A method for filling a double-ended container according to any one of claims 1 to 15, comprising: filling a first cup of a first double-ended container subassembly with a first product; filling a second cup of a second double-ended container subassembly with a second product; and The first double ended container subassembly is coupled to the second double ended container subassembly.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein: The first double-ended container subassembly includes a first cup coupled to a first housing and a first drive member.

18. The method of claim 16, the second double ended container subassembly comprising a second cup coupled to a second housing and a second drive member.

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