Container system and assembly method thereof

Abstract

The present invention provides a container system, which includes: a first container, the first container having a first wall, the first wall defining a first opening therethrough; a second container, the second container having a second wall, the second wall defining a second opening therethrough; and a connecting member, the connecting member fixing the second container to the first container. The second wall is arranged adjacent to the first wall, and the second opening is aligned with the first opening. The connecting member includes: a narrow portion, the narrow portion is at least partially received in each of the first opening and the second opening; a first wide portion, the first wide portion is received in the first container, extends across the first opening, and engages the first wall on opposite sides of the first opening; and a second wide portion, the second wide portion is arranged adjacent to the second wall and extends across the second opening, so that the connecting member fixes the second container to the first container.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to container systems and methods of assembling container systems. Background Art

[0002] E-commerce, i.e., using the Internet to search for and purchase goods, is becoming an increasingly popular way of shopping for consumers. The continued growth of e-commerce has led to dynamic requirements regarding packaging and containers used for packaging. For example, it may be desirable to ship secondary products (such as free samples, gifts, etc.) with primary products for promotional purposes. Primary products are typically packaged in their own primary containers, while secondary products are typically packaged in their own secondary containers. In addition, secondary products may vary based on the primary product and / or applicable promotional offers at the time of purchase.

[0003] At present, the box-in-box method is a method for transporting a secondary product together with a primary product. In the box-in-box method, a primary container containing a primary product and a secondary container containing a secondary product are packaged together in a large container and transported to a consumer. However, such methods may have some disadvantages. For example, the box-in-box method may cause the package size to increase, thereby causing an increase in transportation costs. The box-in-box method may also need to use excessive packaging materials, such as filling materials (e.g., bubble film outer packaging materials, air pillows, air packaging bags, etc.), to protect primary containers and secondary containers from damage. Such packaging materials may be non-recyclable, and their excessive use may be harmful to environmental sustainability.

[0004] There remains a need to provide a container system that is adaptable to the dynamic requirements of e-commerce, is cost-effective, easy to assemble, environmentally friendly, and reduces packaging material requirements. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present invention provides a container system, which includes: a first container, the first container including a first wall, the first wall defining at least one first opening therethrough; at least one second container, the at least one second container including a second wall arranged adjacent to the first wall, the second wall defining at least one second opening therethrough, wherein the at least one second opening is aligned with the at least one first opening; and at least one connecting member, the at least one connecting member being at least partially received within the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening, the at least one connecting member including: a narrow portion extending between a first end and a second end opposite to the first end; a first wide portion, the first wide portion being arranged at the first end of the narrow portion; and a second wide portion, the second wide portion The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a container for a plurality of containers comprising: a container for housing a plurality of containers and a plurality of containers for housing a plurality of containers. The container for housing a plurality of containers is arranged at the second end of the narrow portion, wherein the width of the narrow portion is smaller than the width of each of the first wide portion and the second wide portion, wherein the width of the first wide portion is greater than the maximum width of the at least one first opening, and wherein the width of the second wide portion is greater than the maximum width of the at least one second opening; wherein: the narrow portion is at least partially received in each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening; the first wide portion is received in the first container, the first wide portion extends across the at least one first opening and engages the first walls on opposite sides of the at least one first opening; and the second wide portion is arranged adjacent to the second wall and extends across the at least one second opening, so that the at least one connecting member fixes the at least one second container to the first container.

[0006] The present invention also provides a method for assembling a container system, the method comprising: arranging a second wall of a second container adjacent to a first wall of a first container; aligning a first opening of the first wall with a second opening of the second wall; arranging a connecting member in a first orientation relative to the first opening and the second opening; inserting the connecting member through the first opening and the second opening in the first orientation; and rotating the connecting member from the first orientation to the second orientation so that at least a portion of the connecting member is not aligned with the first opening and the second opening.

[0007] The present invention also provides a container system, which includes: a first container, the first container including a first wall, the first wall defining a pair of first openings therethrough; a second container, the second container including a second wall arranged adjacent to the first wall, the second wall defining a pair of second openings therethrough, wherein each second opening from the pair of second openings is aligned with a corresponding first opening from the pair of first openings; a pair of connecting members, wherein each connecting member from the pair of connecting members is at least partially received in a corresponding first opening from the pair of first openings and a corresponding second opening from the pair of second openings, each connecting member including: a narrow portion between a first end and a second end opposite to the first end a first wide portion, the first wide portion being arranged at the first end of the narrow portion; and a second wide portion, the second wide portion being arranged at the second end of the narrow portion, wherein the width of the narrow portion of each connecting member is smaller than the width of each of the first wide portion and the second wide portion, wherein the width of the first wide portion of each connecting member is greater than the maximum width of the corresponding first opening, and wherein the width of the second wide portion of each connecting member is greater than the maximum width of the corresponding second opening; and a fixing member, the fixing member being arranged on the second wall and comprising: a longitudinal portion, the longitudinal portion extending at least partially along the second wall between opposite ends; a pair of end extensions, the pair of end extensions extending from opposite ends of the longitudinal portion; and an intermediate extension, the intermediate extension The extension extends from the longitudinal portion between the pair of end extensions so that the intermediate extension, the pair of end extensions and the longitudinal portion together define a pair of notches therebetween, wherein each of the pair of notches is aligned with a narrow portion of a corresponding connecting member from the pair of connecting members; wherein: the narrow portion is at least partially received within each of the corresponding first opening and the corresponding second opening; the first wide portion is received within the first container, the first wide portion extends across the corresponding first opening and engages the first wall on opposite sides of the corresponding first opening; the second wide portion is disposed adjacent to the second wall and extends across the corresponding second opening; each of the pair of notches is at least partially received therein The narrow portion of the corresponding connecting member; each of the pair of end extensions is at least partially received between the second wide portion of the corresponding connecting member and the second wall, and each of the pair of end extensions engages the narrow portion and the second wide portion of the corresponding connecting member with the second wall; and the intermediate extension at least partially extends between the pair of connecting members and is at least partially received between the second wide portion of each connecting member and the second wall, and the intermediate extension engages the narrow portion and the second wide portion of each connecting member with the second wall, so that the pair of connecting members and the fixing member fix the second container to the first container. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Although the specification ends with claims that specifically point out and clearly claim what is considered to be the subject matter of the present invention, it is believed that the invention can be more fully understood from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Some of these figures may have been simplified by omitting selected elements in order to more clearly show other elements. Such omissions of elements in certain figures do not necessarily indicate the presence or absence of a particular element in any exemplary embodiment unless such is clearly described in the corresponding text description. The drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0009] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a container system according to the present invention;

[0010] Figure 2A for Figure 1 A perspective view of a first container of the container system;

[0011] Figure 2B for Figure 2A a top view of a first container;

[0012] Figure 2C For along Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the first container taken along line 1-1;

[0013] Figure 3 According to the present invention, it can be assembled into Figure 1 A plan view of a foldable blank in a second container of the container system;

[0014] Figure 4 for Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a container system;

[0015] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A front view of a connecting member of a container system;

[0016] Fig. 6A for Figure 4 A perspective view of a container system of claim 1, wherein the connecting member is at least partially received within a first opening of a first container and a second opening of a second container;

[0017] Figure 6B For along Fig. 6A A cross-sectional view of the container system taken along line 2-2;

[0018] Fig. 7A for Fig. 6A A top view of a container system of FIG. 1 , wherein the connecting member is in a first orientation;

[0019] Figure 7B for Fig. 6A A top view of a container system with the connecting member in a second orientation;

[0020] Figure 7C For along Figure 7B A cross-sectional view of the container system taken along line 3-3;

[0021] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a container system according to the present invention having a fixing member in a disengaged state;

[0022] Fig. 9 for Figure 8 A top view of a fixing member of a container system;

[0023] Fig. 10A for Figure 8 A perspective view of a container system of FIG. 1 with the securing member in an engaged state;

[0024] Fig. 10B For along Fig. 10A A cross-sectional view of the container system taken along line 4-4;

[0025] Fig.11 for Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B A cross-sectional side view of a container system of , wherein the second container is in an assembled state;

[0026] Fig. 12A is a top perspective view of a first container before assembling the container system according to the present invention;

[0027] Fig. 12B is a plan view of a second container prior to assembly of the container system according to the present invention; and

[0028] Fig.13 is a flow chart illustrating the various steps of a method of assembling a container system according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The present invention relates to a container system. The container system includes: a first container, the first container includes a first wall, the first wall defines at least one first opening therethrough. The container system also includes at least one second container, the at least one second container includes a second wall, the second wall is arranged adjacent to the first wall. The second wall defines at least one second opening therethrough. The at least one second opening is aligned with the at least one first opening. The container system also includes at least one connecting member, the at least one connecting member at least partially received in the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening. The at least one connecting member includes: a narrow portion, the narrow portion extending between a first end and a second end opposite to the first end; a first wide portion, the first wide portion arranged at the first end of the narrow portion; and a second wide portion, the second wide portion arranged at the second end of the narrow portion. The width of the narrow portion is less than the width of each of the first wide portion and the second wide portion. The width of the first wide portion is greater than the maximum width of the at least one first opening. The width of the second wide portion is greater than the maximum width of the at least one second opening. The narrow portion is at least partially received in each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening. The first wide portion is received in the first container. The first wide portion extends across the at least one first opening and engages the first wall on opposite sides of the at least one first opening. The second wide portion is disposed adjacent to the second wall and extends across the at least one second opening so that the at least one connecting member secures the at least one second container to the first container.

[0030] The first container may contain one or more primary products therein, and the at least one second container may contain one or more secondary products therein. The first container may be customized based on the one or more primary products, and the at least one second container may be customized based on the one or more secondary products.

[0031] The container system can provide a modular design suitable for packaging different types of products (i.e., primary products and secondary products). Therefore, the container system can be adapted to the dynamic requirements of e-commerce. In addition, the container system can provide a higher filling efficiency compared to the box-in-box method. This can reduce the volume occupied during transportation, thereby reducing the transportation cost of the container system. The first container and / or the at least one second container can be standardized to facilitate automation in the assembly line or can be changed based on application requirements.

[0032] Compared to the box-in-box method, the container system can utilize less material (e.g., non-recyclable packaging materials such as cardboard). For example, as compared to the box-in-box method, the container system can reduce cardboard utilization by up to 50% or more and reduce total material costs by up to 25% or more. In addition, the container system can be partially or completely made of recyclable materials (e.g., corrugated cardboard). Therefore, the container system can be economical and environmentally friendly.

[0033] The container system can also provide improved protection for the products contained in the first container and the at least one second container while reducing the packaging material required for protection. For example, the container system can prevent collision between the one or more primary products contained in the first container and the one or more secondary products contained in the at least one second container.

[0034] Components of the container system, such as the at least one connecting member, can be constructed based on the one or more primary products to be contained in the first container and the one or more secondary products to be contained in the at least one second container. Specifically, the size of the at least one connecting member can be selected based on the total weight of the one or more primary products and the one or more secondary products. For example, the weight density (or thickness) of the at least one connecting member can be proportional to the total weight. Therefore, the container system can pass packaging tests such as ISTA 6A developed by Amazon.com, Inc., Seattle, Washington. Therefore, the container system can also provide improved shipping capabilities.

[0035] The container system may also have an aesthetically pleasing appearance while being easy to assemble / disassemble. The at least one second container may be easily attached to and detached from the first container via a connecting member. This may enhance customer experience and satisfaction. The container system may eliminate the need for conventional attachment methods such as adhesive tape, adhesive plastic wrap, or other materials and methods. Such fasteners are typically not easy to apply and remove, and may not provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0036] The at least one connecting member can be at least partially inserted through the at least one second opening and the at least one first opening in a first orientation, so that the narrow portion can be at least partially received in each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening, the first wide portion can be received in the first container adjacent to the first wall, and the second wide portion can be arranged adjacent to the second wall. Upon insertion, the at least one connecting member can be rotated from the first orientation to the second orientation, so that the at least one connecting member can fix the at least one second container to the first container when in the second orientation. Therefore, the container system can provide a simple mechanism (rotation of the at least one connecting member from the first orientation to the second orientation) to fix the at least one second container to the first container. By rotating the at least one connecting member from the second orientation to the first orientation, the at least one second container can be removed or released from the first container.

[0037] The at least one connecting member may define a connecting axis extending along the narrow portion.The at least one connecting member may be rotatable about the connecting axis between a first orientation and a second orientation.

[0038] Each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening may include a central opening portion and a pair of elongated opening portions extending from opposite sides of the central opening portion. The central opening portion may define a maximum width of each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening. The width of each of the pair of elongated opening portions may be less than the maximum width of the central opening portion. The width of the narrow portion may be less than or equal to the maximum width of the central opening portion, so that the at least one connecting member can be rotated between a first orientation and a second orientation relative to the central opening portion. The width of the narrow portion may be greater than the width of each of the pair of elongated opening portions, so that the narrow portion can be fixed within the central opening portion.

[0039] The central opening portion may be generally circular, such that the maximum width corresponds to the diameter of the central opening portion. In addition, each of the pair of elongated opening portions may be generally rectangular and have rounded ends. The central opening portion being generally circular may facilitate rotation of the at least one connecting member when received therein.

[0040] Each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening may define an opening axis along its length. In a first orientation, each of the first wide portion and the second wide portion may be aligned with the opening axis such that the first wide portion may be inserted through each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening. In a second orientation, at least a portion of the first wide portion and at least a portion of the second wide portion may be misaligned with the opening axis. Thus, due to the misalignment, the at least one connecting member may secure the at least one second container to the first container.

[0041] The first wall may define a longitudinal axis along its length. The opening axis may be inclined relative to the longitudinal axis at an opening angle. The opening angle may be any suitable angle, i.e., the opening angle may be from 0 degrees (i.e., substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis) to 90 degrees (i.e., substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis). The opening angle may preferably be less than 90 degrees (e.g., about 45 degrees) to allow the size of the first wall to be reduced along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0042] In the first orientation, each of the first wide portion and the second wide portion may be substantially parallel to the opening axis. In the second orientation, each of the first wide portion and the second wide portion may be inclined at a certain inclination angle relative to the opening axis. The inclination angle may be any angle that allows at least a portion of the first wide portion and / or at least a portion of the second wide portion to be misaligned with the opening axis. Preferably, the inclination angle is between about 15 degrees and 90 degrees. However, the inclination angle may be between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees or about 45 degrees.

[0043] The first wall may include a first main surface facing the second wall and a second main surface opposite the first main surface. The first wall may include at least one recessed portion arranged proximal to the at least one first opening and extending at least partially from the second main surface to the first main surface. The at least one connecting member may also include at least one end protrusion extending from the first wide portion toward the second wide portion. The at least one end protrusion may be at least partially received in the at least one recessed portion, thereby preventing the first wide portion from rotating relative to the first wall.

[0044] The at least one recessed portion may include a pair of recessed portions arranged on opposite sides of the at least one first opening. The at least one end protrusion may include a pair of end protrusions extending from corresponding opposite ends of the first wide portion toward the second wide portion. Each of the pair of end protrusions may be at least partially received in a corresponding recessed portion from the pair of recessed portions. The pair of end protrusions received in the pair of recessed portions may better prevent the first wide portion from rotating relative to the first wall.

[0045] The container system may further include a fixing member including at least one notch. The fixing member may be at least partially received between the second wide portion and the second wall. The narrow portion may be at least partially received within the at least one notch. The fixing member may engage the narrow portion, the second wide portion, and the second wall. The fixing member may prevent movement of the at least one connecting member and may fix the at least one connecting member in a second orientation. The fixing member may have a suitable size so that the fixing member itself is fixed in a fixed position relative to the at least one connecting member during transportation. It should be noted that the size of the fixing member may also be based on the total weight of the one or more primary products and the one or more secondary products.

[0046] The first container may also include at least one first closing member configured to close the at least one first opening. The at least one first closing member may, for example, be removably attached to the first wall of the first container. The at least one first closing member may be removed from the at least one first opening before the at least one second container is attached to the first container.

[0047] In addition, the at least one second container may further include at least one second closing member, which is configured to close the at least one second opening. The at least one second closing member may, for example, be removably attached to the second wall of the at least one second container. The at least one second closing member may be removed from the at least one second opening before the at least one second container is attached to the first container.

[0048] When the at least one first closure member and the at least one second closure member are not attached or fixed to each other, they can reduce or prevent the entry of undesired contaminants, insects, etc. into the first container and the at least one second container, respectively. This may be advantageous if the first container or the at least one second container are transported or stored independently of each other.

[0049] The first container may be in a closed configuration before the second wall of the at least one second container is arranged adjacent to the first wall of the first container. This may allow different second containers containing different products to be quickly attached to the first container based on requirements. Thus, the container system may provide a flexible mechanism to quickly attach different second containers to the first container based on application requirements.

[0050] definition :

[0051] As used herein, the term "at least one" is used to specify any number or range of numbers that is technically reasonable in a given context. The term "at least one" may be understood to mean one, two, three, four, five, etc. The term "at least one" may refer to a single component or a plurality of components.

[0052] As used herein, "foldably connected" refers to the connection of any two components so as to facilitate folding and / or rotation of either component relative to the other. Suitable folding features such as crease lines may be provided between the two components to facilitate folding and / or rotation relative to each other.

[0053] As used herein, the term "closed configuration" refers to a configuration of a container that prevents any product disposed within the container from escaping the container. A container in a closed configuration may not necessarily be hermetically sealed.

[0054] As used herein, the term "assembled state" refers to a state of the container in which the container defines a closed compartment. In the assembled state, the container may completely surround the product packaged in the closed compartment. The container may be suitable for shipping in the assembled state. The assembled state may correspond to a closed configuration of the container.

[0055] As used herein, the term "unassembled state" refers to a state of a container in which the container does not define a closed compartment. The container can be assembled from the unassembled state to the assembled state. An example of an unassembled state includes a foldable blank in an unfolded state. The foldable blank can be formed into a container from the unfolded state when assembled.

[0056] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 A perspective view of a container system 100 according to the present invention is shown. The container system 100 can define mutually orthogonal x, y, and z axes. The x-axis can be defined along the length of the container system 100, while the y-axis can be defined along the width of the container system 100. The z-axis can be defined along the height of the container system 100. Unless otherwise specified, the width of any component of the container system 100 is measured in the xy plane.

[0057] The container system 100 includes a first container 110 and at least one second container 120 fixed to the first container 110 . Figure 1 The container system 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes a single second container 120 secured to a first container 110 . However, the container system 100 may include a plurality of second containers 120 secured to a first container 110 .

[0058] The first container 110 and / or the at least one second container 120 according to the present invention may have various shapes, for example, a generally cubic shape. The first container 110 and / or the at least one second container 120 may have rounded edges and / or corners, and for the purposes of this document, are considered to be generally cubic. However, depending on the application requirements, the first container 110 and / or the at least one second container 120 may have any suitable three-dimensional shape.

[0059] Figure 1The at least one second container 120 shown in the figure is smaller than the first container 110. However, the at least one second container 120 can have any suitable size. Specifically, the at least one second container 120 can be smaller than, equal to, or larger than the first container 110. It should be noted that the size and dimensions of the first container 110 and the at least one second container 120 can be selected based on the one or more products to be packaged therein.

[0060] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C A first container 110 according to the present invention is shown. Specifically, Figure 2A shows a perspective view of a first container 110, Figure 2B A top view of the first container 110 is shown, and Figure 2C Shown along Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the first container 110 is shown along line 1-1. The x, y and z axes are also shown. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C middle.

[0061] refer to FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C , the first container 110 includes a first wall 112 defining at least one first opening 114 therethrough. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C The first wall 112 shown in FIG. 1 is a top wall of the first container 110. However, the first wall 112 may be one or more of a top wall, a bottom wall, a front wall, a rear wall, and a side wall of the first container 110. The first wall 112 may refer to one or more walls of the first container 110 that define the at least one first opening 114 therethrough.

[0062] The first wall 112 may define a single first opening 114 or a plurality of first openings 114 spaced apart from each other. In other words, the at least one first opening 114 may include a single first opening 114 or the plurality of first openings 114 spaced apart from each other. The plurality of first openings 114 may be similar or different in shape and size. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C The first wall 112 shown in FIG. 1 defines a pair of first openings 114 therethrough. The pair of first openings 114 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0063] The at least one first opening 114 may include a slot-like shape. Figure 2B As shown, the at least one first opening 114 may include a central opening portion 130 and a pair of elongated opening portions 132 extending from opposite sides of the central opening portion 130. The central opening portion 130 may define a maximum width 130W of the at least one first opening 114.

[0064] Figure 2BThe central opening portion 130 shown may be generally circular, such that the maximum width 130W corresponds to the diameter of the central opening portion 130. However, the central opening portion 130 may have any suitable shape, such as generally rectangular, polygonal, etc. In addition, Figure 2B Each of the pair of elongated opening portions 132 shown is generally rectangular and has rounded ends. However, each of the pair of elongated opening portions 132 may have any suitable shape, such as generally triangular, generally rectangular, polygonal, etc.

[0065] Each of the pair of elongated opening portions 132 may include a length 132L and a width 132W. The length 132L of each of the pair of elongated opening portions 132 may be greater than its width 132W. In some examples, the length 132L may be greater than or equal to twice the width 132W. In addition, the width 132W of each of the pair of elongated opening portions 132 may be less than the maximum width 130W of the central opening portion 130. In addition, the length 132L of each of the pair of elongated opening portions 132 may be greater than the maximum width 130W of the central opening portion 130.

[0066] The first wall 112 may also define a longitudinal axis 113 along its length. The longitudinal axis 113 may be substantially parallel to the x-axis. In addition, the at least one first opening 114 may define an opening axis 133 along its length. The opening axis 133 may be arranged in the xy plane. For example, Figure 2B As shown, the at least one first opening 114 may define an opening axis 133 extending substantially along the pair of elongated opening portions 132. The opening axis 133 may be inclined relative to the longitudinal axis 113 at an opening angle θ. The opening angle θ may be any suitable angle, i.e., the opening angle θ may be 0 degrees (i.e., substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 113) to 90 degrees (i.e., substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113). Figure 2B As shown, the opening angle θ may be about 45 degrees. The opening angle θ is preferably less than 90 degrees (e.g., about 45 degrees) to allow the first wall 112 to be dimensioned along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 ( Figure 2B The y-axis in the figure decreases.

[0067] The first wall 112 may include a first major surface 112A and a second major surface 112B (at the Figure 2C112B). Each of the first major surface 112A and the second major surface 112B can be substantially arranged in the xy plane. The first wall 112 can substantially define a thickness 112T between the first major surface 112A and the second major surface 112B along the z-axis. The thickness 112T can correspond to the maximum thickness of the first wall 112. As discussed above, the first wall 112 defines the at least one first opening 114 therethrough. That is, the at least one first opening 114 can extend completely from the first major surface 112A to the second major surface 112B.

[0068] The first wall 112 may further include at least one recessed portion 116 disposed proximal to the at least one first opening 114 (at Figure 2C ). Figure 2A In the embodiment, the at least one recessed portion 116 is indicated by a hidden line or a dashed line. The at least one recessed portion 116 may extend at least partially from the second major surface 112B to the first major surface 112A. Figure 2C As shown, the at least one recessed portion 116 may partially extend from the second major surface 112B to the first major surface 112A. Alternatively, the at least one recessed portion 116 may extend completely between the second major surface 112B and the first major surface 112A. The at least one recessed portion 116 may include a height 116H substantially along the z-axis.

[0069] Figure 2C The first wall 112 shown in FIG. 1 includes a pair of recessed portions 116 arranged on opposite sides of the at least one first opening 114. In other words, the at least one recessed portion 116 may include a pair of recessed portions 116 arranged on opposite sides of the at least one first opening 114. Specifically, Figure 2C The first wall 112 shown in includes two pairs of recessed portions 116 corresponding to the pair of first openings 114. Each pair of recessed portions 116 from the two pairs of recessed portions 116 is arranged on opposite sides of the corresponding first opening 114 from the pair of first openings 114. In addition, each recessed portion 116 may partially extend from the second major surface 112B to the first major surface 112A. Therefore, the height 116H of each recessed portion 116 along the z-axis may be less than the thickness 112T of the first wall 112. In some examples, the height 116H of each recessed portion 116 may be 20% to 90% of the thickness 112T of the first wall 112. However, it should be noted that the at least one recessed portion 116 is optional and may be omitted from the first container 110.

[0070] Figure 3 A plan view of a foldable blank 121 that can be assembled into the at least one second container 120 is shown. In other words, Figure 3A plan view of the at least one second container 120 is shown in an unassembled state. Figure 1 1 and 2. The at least one second container 120 in an assembled state is shown in FIG. The at least one second container 120 in an unassembled state is interchangeably referred to herein as a foldable blank 121.

[0071] The at least one second container 120 includes a second wall 122 defining at least one second opening 124 therethrough. The at least one second opening 124 may correspond to the at least one first opening 114 of the first container 110 (in Figures 2A to 2C ). Figure 3 The second wall 122 shown in the figure is the bottom wall of the at least one second container 120 (when assembled from the foldable blank 121). However, the second wall 122 can be any of the bottom wall, front wall, back wall and side wall of the at least one second container 120. The second wall 122 can refer to any wall of the at least one second container 120 that defines the at least one second opening 124 therethrough.

[0072] The second wall 122 may define a single second opening 124 or a plurality of second openings 124 spaced apart from each other. In other words, the at least one second opening 124 may include a single second opening 124 or the plurality of second openings 124 spaced apart from each other. The plurality of second openings 124 may correspond to the plurality of first openings 114 (in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C ). Figure 3 The second wall 122 shown in FIG. 1 defines a pair of second openings 124 therethrough.

[0073] The at least one second opening 124 may be substantially similar in shape and size to the at least one first opening 114 (in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C In some cases, the at least one second opening 124 can be the same as the at least one first opening 114. Figure 3 As shown, each second opening of the pair of second openings 124 may be substantially similar in shape and size to a corresponding first opening 114 from the pair of first openings 114 .

[0074] Specifically, the at least one second opening 124 may include a central opening portion 130 and the pair of elongated opening portions 132 extending from opposite sides of the central opening portion 130. The central opening portion 130 may also define a maximum width 130W of the at least one second opening 124.

[0075] Thus, each of the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124 may include a central opening portion 130 and the pair of elongated opening portions 132 extending from opposite sides of the central opening portion 130. In addition, the central opening portion 130 may define a maximum width 130W of each of the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124. In other words, the central opening portion 130 may define a maximum width 130W of the at least one first opening 114 and a maximum width 130W of the at least one second opening 124. Although referred to by the same reference character, the maximum width 130W of the at least one first opening 114 may be different from the maximum width 130W of the at least one second opening 124.

[0076] The second wall 122 may further define a longitudinal axis 123 along its length. The longitudinal axis 123 of the second wall 122 may be substantially parallel to the x-axis of the first wall 112 and the longitudinal axis 113 (at Figure 2B ). The at least one second opening 124 may also define an opening axis 133 along its length. That is, each of the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124 may define an opening axis 133 along its length. Therefore, the opening axis 133 may also be inclined relative to the longitudinal axis 123 at an opening angle θ. The opening angle θ may be 0 degrees (i.e., substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 123) to 90 degrees (i.e., substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 123). Figure 3 As shown, the opening angle θ may be about 45 degrees. The opening angle θ is preferably less than 90 degrees (e.g., about 45 degrees) to allow the size of the second wall 122 to be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 123 ( Figure 3 The y-axis in the figure decreases.

[0077] In addition, if Figure 3 As shown, the foldable blank 121 may also include a first bottom edge 125A, a second bottom edge 125B, a third bottom edge 125C, and a fourth bottom edge 125D. The first bottom edge, the second bottom edge, the third bottom edge, and the fourth bottom edges 125A to 125D may be jointly joined to the second wall 122. The foldable blank 121 may also include a first side wall 126A, a second side wall 126B, a third side wall 126C, and a fourth side wall 126D. The first side wall, the second side wall, the third side wall, and the fourth side wall 126A to 126D may be foldably connected to the second wall 122 at the corresponding first bottom edge, the second bottom edge, the third bottom edge, and the fourth bottom edge 125A to 125D.

[0078] Foldable blank 121 may also include a first flange 127A, a second flange 127B, a third flange 127C, and a fourth flange 127D. The first flange, the second flange, the third flange, and the fourth flange 127A to 127D may be foldably connected to the corresponding first side wall, the second side wall, the third side wall, and the fourth side wall 126A to 126D. Foldable blank 121 may also include a first wing 128A, a second wing 128B, a third wing 128C, and a fourth wing 128D. The first wing 128A and the second wing 128B may be foldably connected to the first side wall 126A at their opposite ends. The third wing 128C and the fourth wing 128D may be foldably connected to the third side wall 126C at their opposite ends. The first wing 128A and the fourth wing 128D may include corresponding first interlocking notches 129A. Additionally, the second wing 128B and the third wing 128C may include corresponding second interlocking notches 129B.

[0079] A method of assembling the at least one second container 120 from the foldable blank 121 may include the following steps.

[0080] First, the third wing 128C and the fourth wing 128D may be folded toward the third side wall 126C. Subsequently, the third side wall 126C may be folded toward the second wall 122.

[0081] Second, the first wing 128A and the second wing 128B can be folded toward the first side wall 126A. Subsequently, the first side wall 126A can be folded toward the second wall 122.

[0082] Third, by connecting the first interlocking notch 129A, the first wing 128A can be interlocked with the fourth wing 128D, and by connecting the second interlocking notch 129B, the second wing 120B can be interlocked with the third wing 128C. After interlocking the first wing 128A with the fourth wing 128D and interlocking the second wing 128B with the third wing 128C, each of the first side wall 126A and the third side wall 126C can be substantially perpendicular to the second wall 122.

[0083] Fourth, the second side wall 126B and the fourth side wall 126D may be folded toward the second wall 122. Subsequently, the second flange 127B and the fourth flange 127D may be folded toward the second wall 122.

[0084] Fifth, the first flange 127A and the third flange 127C may be folded toward the second wall 122 such that each of the first flange 127A and the third flange 127C partially overlaps the second flange 127B and the fourth flange 127D.

[0085] By performing the first to fifth steps, the at least one second container 120 may be assembled from the foldable blank 121. After the fifth step, the first flange 127A and the third flange 127C may be fastened, for example, by tape, staples, etc., so that the at least one second container 120 may maintain its assembled state.

[0086] Figure 4 An exploded perspective view of a container system 100 according to the invention is shown. The at least one second container 120 is shown in an unassembled state.

[0087] The container system 100 further includes at least one connecting member 140. The container system 100 may include a single connecting member 140 or a plurality of connecting members 140. In other words, the at least one connecting member 140 may include a single connecting member 140 or the plurality of connecting members 140. Figure 4 The container system 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes a pair of connecting members 140 .

[0088] Figure 4 The at least one connecting member 140 is shown in more detail in Figure 5 Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the at least one connecting member 140 includes a narrow portion 142 extending between a first end 142A and a second end 142B opposite the first end 142A. The at least one connecting member 140 also includes: a first wide portion 144, which is arranged at the first end 142A of the narrow portion 142; and a second wide portion 146, which is arranged at the second end 142B of the narrow portion 142. Therefore, the narrow portion 142 connects the first wide portion 144 to the second wide portion 146. The at least one connecting member 140 may define a minimum distance 145 between the first wide portion 144 and the second wide portion 146.

[0089] The narrow portion 142 includes a width 142W, the first wide portion 144 includes a width 144W, and the second wide portion 146 includes a width 146W. The width 142W of the narrow portion 142 is smaller than the widths 144W, 146W of each of the first wide portion 144 and the second wide portion 146. In other words, each of the width 144W of the first wide portion 144 and the width 146W of the second wide portion 146 is greater than the width 142W of the narrow portion 142.

[0090] refer to Figure 2B , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5, the width 144W of the first wide portion 144 is greater than the maximum width 130W of the at least one first opening 114. In addition, the width 146W of the second wide portion 146 is greater than the maximum width 130W of the at least one second opening 124. The width 142W of the narrow portion 142 may be less than or equal to the maximum width 130W of the central opening portion 130, and the width 142W of the narrow portion 142 may be greater than the width 132W of each of the pair of elongated opening portions 132.

[0091] The at least one connecting member 140 may define a connecting axis 143 extending along the narrow portion 142. The connecting axis 143 may be substantially parallel to the z-axis. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, each of the first wide portion 144 and the second wide portion 146 may extend substantially orthogonal to the connection axis 143. Alternatively, each of the first wide portion 144 and the second wide portion 146 may be obliquely inclined toward the connection axis 143 (eg, from 20 to 60 degrees).

[0092] The at least one connecting member 140 may further include at least one end protrusion 147 extending from the first wide portion 144 toward the second wide portion 146. The at least one end protrusion 147 may extend substantially along the connecting axis 143. Alternatively, the at least one end protrusion 147 may be obliquely inclined toward the connecting axis 143 (e.g., from 20 to 60 degrees). Figure 4 and Figure 5 The at least one connecting member 140 shown in the figure includes a pair of end protrusions 147 extending from corresponding opposite ends of the first wide portion 144 toward the second wide portion 146. In other words, the at least one end protrusion 147 may include the pair of end protrusions 147 extending from corresponding opposite ends of the first wide portion 144 toward the second wide portion 146. Specifically, Figure 4 Each connecting member 140 shown in FIG. 1 includes the pair of end protrusions 147 extending from corresponding opposite ends of the first wide portion 144 toward the second wide portion 146. Note that the at least one end protrusion 147 is optional and may be omitted from the at least one connecting member 140.

[0093] exist Figure 4 14A. The at least one connecting member 140 can be at least partially inserted through the at least one second opening 124 and the at least one first opening 114 in the first orientation 149A. Figure 4As shown, in the first orientation 149A, each of the first wide portion 144 and the second wide portion 146 may be aligned with the opening axis 133 such that the first wide portion 144 may be inserted through each of the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124 .

[0094] Fig. 6A A perspective view of the container system 100 is shown with the at least one connecting member 140 at least partially received within the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124 in a first orientation 149A. Figure 6B Shown along Fig. 6A A cross-sectional view of the container system 100 taken along line 2-2.

[0095] refer to Fig. 6A and Figure 6B , the second wall 122 is arranged adjacent to the first wall 112. Specifically, the second wall 122 may be arranged adjacent to the first major surface 112A of the first wall 112. Therefore, the first major surface 112A may face the second wall 122. Figure 6B As shown, in some cases, the second wall 122 can be disposed directly on the first major surface 112A of the first wall 112. Note that the first container 110 can be in a closed configuration before the second wall 122 of the at least one second container 120 is disposed adjacent to the first wall 112 of the first container 110. The second wall 122 can include a thickness 122T along the z-axis.

[0096] In addition, the at least one second opening 124 is aligned with the at least one first opening 114. That is, the second wall 122 can be arranged adjacent to the first wall 112 so that the at least one second opening 124 is aligned with the at least one first opening 114. In some examples, each second opening 124 from the plurality of second openings 124 can be aligned with a corresponding first opening 114 from the plurality of first openings 114. Specifically, as Fig. 6A and Figure 6B As shown, each second opening 124 from the pair of second openings 124 may be aligned with a corresponding first opening 114 from the pair of first openings 114 .

[0097] The at least one connecting member 140 can be at least partially inserted through the at least one second opening 124 and the at least one first opening 114 in the first orientation 149A, such that the narrow portion 142 is at least partially received within each of the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124, the first wide portion 144 is received within the first container 110 adjacent to the first wall 112, and the second wide portion 146 is disposed adjacent to the second wall 122. Additionally, in the first orientation 149A, each of the first wide portion 144 and the second wide portion 146 can be substantially parallel to the opening axis 133.

[0098] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B 149B. A top view of the container system 100 is shown, showing the rotation of the at least one connecting member 140 between the first orientation 149A and the second orientation 149B. Specifically, upon insertion, the at least one connecting member 140 can be rotated from the first orientation 149A to the second orientation 149B (e.g., along the Fig. 7A The at least one connecting member 140 can be rotated about a connecting axis 143 (in a rotation direction RD shown in FIG. 1 ) so that the at least one connecting member 140 fixes the at least one second container 120 to the first container 110 in a second orientation 149B. Fig. 6A 149A and the second orientation 149B. The at least one connecting member 140 can rotate between the first orientation 149A and the second orientation 149B around the z-axis.

[0099] refer to Figure 2B , Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Fig. 7A and Figure 7B , the width 142W of the narrow portion 142 may be less than or equal to the maximum width 130W of the central opening portion 130, so that the at least one connecting member 140 can rotate between the first orientation 149A and the second orientation 149B relative to the central opening portion 130. In addition, the width 142W of the narrow portion 142 may be greater than the width 132W of each of the pair of elongated opening portions 132, so that the narrow portion 142 can be fixed within the central opening portion 130 of each of the at least one first opening 114 and the second opening 124.

[0100] Figure 7C Shown along Figure 7B A cross-sectional view of the container system 100 taken along line 3-3 of FIG. Figure 7B and Figure 7C, in the second orientation 149B, each of the first wide portion 144 and the second wide portion 146 may be misaligned with the opening axis 133. Specifically, in the second orientation 149B, each of the first wide portion 144 and the second wide portion 146 may be tilted at a tilt angle α relative to the opening axis 133. The tilt angle α may be any angle that allows at least a portion of the first wide portion 144 and / or at least a portion of the second wide portion 146 to be misaligned with the opening axis 133. Preferably, the tilt angle α is between about 15 degrees and 90 degrees. However, the tilt angle α may be between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees. Figure 7B As shown, the tilt angle α may be approximately 45 degrees. Additionally, in some cases, the tilt angle α may be substantially equal to the opening angle θ.

[0101] In addition, if Figure 7B As shown, in the second orientation 149B, each of the first wide portion 144 and the second wide portion 146 can be arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis 123 and at an inclined angle α (in Figure 7B As discussed above, the longitudinal axis 123 of the at least one second container 120 may be parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the first container 110 (in Figure 4 Thus, in the second orientation 149B, each of the first wide portion 144 and the second wide portion 146 may also be arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the first wall 112 and be inclined at an inclination angle α relative to the opening axis 133. In addition, as discussed above, when in the second orientation 149B, the at least one connecting member 140 may secure the at least one second container 120 to the first container 110.

[0102] refer to Figure 7C , the at least one connecting member 140 is at least partially received in the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124. In some examples, each of the plurality of connecting members 140 may be at least partially received in a corresponding first opening 114 from the plurality of first openings 114 and a corresponding second opening 124 from the plurality of second openings 124. Figure 7C As shown, each connection member 140 from the pair of connection members 140 may be at least partially received within a corresponding first opening 114 from the pair of first openings 114 and a corresponding second opening 124 from the pair of second openings 124 .

[0103] The narrow portion 142 is at least partially received within each of the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124. Figure 7CAs shown, the narrow portion 142 of each connecting member 140 may be at least partially received within each of the corresponding first opening 114 and the corresponding second opening 124 .

[0104] The first wide portion 144 is received within the first container 110. The first wide portion 144 extends across the at least one first opening 114 and engages the first wall 112 on opposite sides of the at least one first opening 114. Figure 7C As shown, the first wide portion 144 of each connecting member 140 may extend across the corresponding first opening 114 and may engage the first wall 112 on opposite sides of the corresponding first opening 114 .

[0105] The second wide portion 146 is disposed adjacent to the second wall 122 and extends across the at least one second opening 124 such that the at least one connecting member 140 secures the at least one second container 120 to the first container 110. Figure 7C As shown, the second wide portion 146 of each connecting member 140 can be disposed adjacent to the second wall 122 and can extend across the corresponding second opening 124. The minimum distance 145 between the first wide portion 144 and the second wide portion 146 (also in Figure 5 ) may be greater than or equal to the sum of the thickness 112T of the first wall 112 and the thickness 122T of the second wall 122.

[0106] In the second orientation 149B, the first and second wide portions 144 and 146 may prevent each connection member 140 from being removed from the corresponding first and second openings 114 and 124. Thus, in the second orientation 149B, each connection member 140 may prevent the at least one second container 120 from being separated from the first container 110.

[0107] Additionally, the at least one end protrusion 147 can be at least partially received in the at least one recess 116, thereby preventing rotation of the first wide portion 144 relative to the first wall 112. Thus, the at least one connecting member 140 can be fixed in the second orientation 149B. Figure 7C As shown, when the at least one end protrusion 147 is received in the at least one recess 116, the connecting member 140 may define a gap 148 between the second wide portion 146 and the second wall 122. The gap 148 may include a length 148L substantially along the z-axis. The length 148L of the gap 148 may be substantially equal to the height 116H of the at least one recess 116.

[0108] like Figure 7CAs shown, each of the pair of end protrusions 147 can be at least partially received in a corresponding recessed portion 116 from the pair of recessed portions 116, thereby preventing the first wide portion 144 from rotating relative to the first wall 112. Therefore, when at least partially received in the pair of recessed portions 116, the pair of end protrusions 147 can rotationally lock the corresponding connecting member 140 in the second orientation 149B and prevent any undesirable or accidental rotation of the corresponding connecting member 140 from the second orientation 149B.

[0109] As discussed above, the at least one recess 116 and the at least one end protrusion 147 may be omitted from the container system 100. In examples where the at least one recess 116 and the at least one end protrusion 147 are omitted, the at least one connecting member 140 may not define the gap 148.

[0110] like Figure 8 As shown, the container system 100 may further include a fixing member 150. The fixing member 150 is Figure 8 Specifically, the fixing member 150 is shown in a disengaged state. Figure 8 140. The fixing member 150 may include at least one notch 158. The at least one notch 158 may correspond to the at least one connecting member 140. The fixing member 150 may include a plurality of notches 158 corresponding to the plurality of connecting members 140. In other words, the at least one notch 158 may include a single notch 158 for a single connecting member 140, or the plurality of notches 158 corresponding to the plurality of connecting members 140. Figure 8 The illustrated fixing member 150 corresponds to the pair of connecting members 140. Therefore, the at least one notch 158 may include a pair of notches 158 spaced apart from each other.

[0111] Figure 8 The fixing member 150 is shown in more detail in Fig. 9 Reference Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , the fixing member 150 may include: a longitudinal portion 152; a pair of end extensions 154 extending from opposite ends of the longitudinal portion 152; and an intermediate extension 156 extending from the longitudinal portion 152 between the pair of end extensions 154, such that the intermediate extension 156, the pair of end extensions 154 and the longitudinal portion 152 together define the pair of notches 158 therebetween. Each of the pair of notches 158 may be aligned with the narrow portion 142 of the corresponding connecting member 140 from the pair of connecting members 140.

[0112] Fig. 10AA perspective view of the container system 100 is shown with the securing member 150 in an engaged state. In the engaged state, the securing member 150 engages the at least one connecting member 140 and the second wall 122. Fig. 10B Shown along Fig. 10A A cross-sectional view of the container system 100 taken along line 4-4.

[0113] refer to Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B , the fixing member 150 may be disposed on the second wall 122. Specifically, the fixing member 150 may be at least partially received between the second wide portion 146 and the second wall 122. The fixing member 150 may be at least partially received in the gap 148 (at Figure 7C 148 ). The thickness of the fixing member 150 along the z-axis may be greater than or equal to the length 148L of the gap 148. It is noted that the fixing member 150 is optional and may be omitted from the container system 100. In the event that the fixing member 150 is omitted, the gap 148 may not exist, and the second wide portion 146 may directly engage the second wall 122.

[0114] In addition, the narrow portion 142 may be at least partially received within the at least one notch 158. Thus, the fixing member 150 may engage the narrow portion 142, the second wide portion 146, and the second wall 122. If a plurality of connecting members 140 are used, the narrow portion 142 of each of the plurality of connecting members 140 may be at least partially received within a corresponding notch 158 from the plurality of notches 158. Thus, the fixing member 150 may engage the second wall 122 and the narrow portion 142 and the second wide portion 146 of each of the plurality of connecting members 140.

[0115] like Fig. 10A As shown, each of the pair of notches 158 can at least partially receive therein the narrow portion 142 of the corresponding connecting member 140. Each of the pair of end extensions 154 can be at least partially received between the second wall 122 and the second wide portion 146 of the corresponding connecting member 140. Each of the pair of end extensions 154 can join the second wall 122 and the narrow portion 142 and the second wide portion 146 of the corresponding connecting member 140.

[0116] In addition, the intermediate extension 156 may extend at least partially between the pair of connecting members 140 and may be at least partially received between the second wall 122 and the second wide portion 146 of each connecting member 140. The intermediate extension 156 may engage the second wall 122 and the narrow portion 142 and the second wide portion 146 of each connecting member 140 so that the pair of connecting members 140 and the fixing member 150 fix the second container 120 to the first container 110.

[0117] Fig.11 1 shows a cross-sectional side view of the container system 100, wherein the fixing member 150 and the at least one second container 120 are in an assembled state. The at least one second container 120 can be assembled from a foldable blank 121 ( Figure 3 ), as shown above in reference Figure 3 Discussed.

[0118] The at least one connecting member 140 may be constructed based on one or more main products (not shown) to be contained in the first container 110 and one or more secondary products (not shown) to be contained in the at least one second container 120. Specifically, the size of the at least one connecting member 140 may be selected based on the total weight of the one or more main products and the one or more secondary products. For example, the weight density (or thickness) of the at least one connecting member 140 may be proportional to the total weight. Therefore, the container system 100 may pass a packaging test such as ISTA6A developed by Amazon.com, Inc., Seattle, Washington. In addition, the fixing member 150 may have a suitable size so that the fixing member 150 itself is fixed in a fixed position relative to the at least one connecting member 140 during transportation. It should be noted that the size of the fixing member 150 may also be based on the total weight of the one or more main products and the one or more secondary products.

[0119] Fig. 12A 1 shows a top perspective view of the first container 110 before being attached to the at least one second container 120. As shown, the first container 110 may also include at least one first closing member 118 configured to close the at least one first opening 114 (by Fig. 12A ). The at least one first closing member 118 may be removably attached to the first wall 112 of the first container 110. The at least one first closing member 118 may be removed from the first wall 112 to expose the at least one first opening 114. Specifically, the at least one first closing member 118 may be removed from the at least one first opening 114 before the first container 110 and the at least one second container 120 are attached to each other.

[0120] The at least one first closure member 118 can be integrally formed with the first container 110. For example, the first wall 112 of the first container 110 can be scored, perforated, or die cut to form the at least one first closure member 118. Alternatively, the at least one first closure member 118 can be formed separately from the first container 110 and removably attached to the first wall 112. The at least one first closure member 118 can be interchangeably referred to as "closure member 118".

[0121] Fig. 12B FIG. 1 shows a plan view of the at least one second container 120 before being attached to the first container 110. Fig. 12B The at least one second container 120 is shown in an unassembled state. The at least one second container 120 may also include at least one second closing member 119, the at least one second closing member being configured to close the at least one second opening 124 (by Fig. 12B ). The at least one second closing member 119 may be removably attached to the second wall 122 of the at least one second container 120. The at least one second closing member 119 may be removed from the second wall 122 of the at least one second container 120 to expose the at least one second opening 124. Specifically, the at least one second closing member 119 may be removed from the at least one second opening 124 before the first container 110 and the at least one second container 120 are attached to each other.

[0122] The at least one second closing member 119 may be integrally formed with the at least one second container 120. For example, the second wall 122 of the at least one second container 120 may be scored, perforated, or die cut to form the at least one second closing member 119. Alternatively, the at least one second closing member 119 may be formed independently of the at least one second container 120 and removably attached to the second wall 122.

[0123] refer to Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B Before the at least one second container 120 is attached or fixed to the first container 110, or when the at least one second container 120 is not attached or fixed to the first container 110 at all (for example, when the first container 110 is transported independently of the second container 120), the at least one first closing member 118 and the at least one second closing member 119 can reduce or prevent unwanted contaminants, insects, etc. from entering the first container 110 and the at least one second container 120, respectively.

[0124] Fig.13 The assembly of a container system according to the present invention (such as Figure 12. The method 200 of the container system 100 shown in FIG. 200 includes, at step 210, arranging a second wall of a second container adjacent to a first wall of a first container. For example, Figure 6B As shown, the method 200 may include arranging the second wall 122 of the at least one second container 120 adjacent to the first wall 112 of the first container 110 .

[0125] The first container may be in a closed configuration before the second wall of the second container is arranged adjacent to the first wall of the first container. Figure 4 As shown, the first container 110 may be in a closed configuration before the second wall 122 of the at least one second container 120 is arranged adjacent to the first wall 112 of the first container 110 .

[0126] The method 200 may include removing the closure member from the first container to expose the first opening before arranging the second wall of the second container adjacent to the first wall of the first container. For example, the method 200 may include removing the at least one closure member 118 (shown in FIG. 12 ) from the first container 110 to expose the at least one first opening 114 (shown in FIG. 12 ) before arranging the second wall 122 of the at least one second container 120 adjacent to the first wall 112 of the first container 110. Figure 2A-2C ).

[0127] At step 220, method 200 further includes aligning the first opening of the first wall with the second opening of the second wall. Figure 4 As shown, the method 200 may include aligning the at least one first opening 114 of the first wall 112 with the at least one second opening 124 of the second wall 122 .

[0128] At step 230, method 200 also includes arranging the connection member in a first orientation relative to the first opening and the second opening. Figure 4 As shown, the method 200 may include arranging the at least one connection member 140 in a first orientation 149A relative to the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124 .

[0129] When the connecting member is arranged in a first orientation relative to the first opening and the second opening, the first wide portion of the connecting member can be aligned with the first opening and the second wide portion of the connecting member can be aligned with the second opening. Figure 4 As shown, when the at least one connecting member 140 is arranged in the first orientation 149A relative to the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124, the first wide portion 144 of the at least one connecting member 140 can be aligned with the at least one first opening 114, and the second wide portion 146 of the at least one connecting member 140 can be aligned with the at least one second opening 124.

[0130] At step 240, method 200 further includes inserting the connection member through the first opening and the second opening in the first orientation. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the method 200 may include inserting the at least one connection member 140 through the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124 in the first orientation 149A.

[0131] When the connecting member is inserted through the first opening and the second opening in the first orientation, the first wide portion can be disposed adjacent to the first wall and the second wide portion can be disposed adjacent to the second wall. Figure 6B As shown, when the at least one connecting member 140 is inserted through the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124 in the first orientation 149A, the first wide portion 144 may be disposed adjacent to the first wall 112 and the second wide portion 146 may be disposed adjacent to the second wall 122 .

[0132] At step 250, method 200 further includes rotating the connection member from the first orientation to the second orientation such that at least a portion of the connection member is not aligned with the first opening and the second opening. 7A to 7C As shown, the method 200 may include rotating the at least one connection member 140 from the first orientation 149A to the second orientation 149B such that at least a portion of one connection member 140 is not aligned with the at least one first opening 114 and the at least one second opening 124 .

[0133] When the connecting member is rotated from the first orientation to the second orientation, the first wide portion may be misaligned with the first opening, and the second wide portion may be misaligned with the second opening. 7A to 7C As shown, when the at least one connecting member 140 is rotated from the first orientation 149A to the second orientation 149B, the first wide portion 144 may be misaligned with the at least one first opening 114 and the second wide portion 146 may be misaligned with the at least one second opening 124 .

[0134] The method 200 may also include receiving the end protrusion of the connecting member at least partially within the recessed portion of the first wall, thereby preventing the connecting member from rotating relative to the first wall. Figure 7C As shown, the method 200 may further include at least partially receiving the at least one end protrusion 147 of the at least one connecting member 140 within the at least one recess 116 of the first wall 112 to prevent rotation of the at least one connecting member 140 relative to the first wall 112 .

[0135] The method 200 may also include inserting a securing member between the connecting member and the second wall such that the recess of the securing member at least partially receives the connecting member therein and the securing member engages the connecting member and the second wall. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B As shown, the method 200 may also include inserting a fixing member 150 between the at least one connecting member 140 and the second wall 122, so that the at least one recess 158 of the fixing member 150 at least partially receives the at least one connecting member 140 therein, and the fixing member 150 engages the at least one connecting member 140 and the second wall 122.

[0136] The method 200 may further include assembling a second container from the foldable blank. For example, the method 200 may further include assembling the at least one second container 120 from the foldable blank 121 (in Figure 3 ).

[0137] The container system 100 according to the present invention can be adapted to the dynamic requirements of e-commerce. The container system 100 can also be economical and environmentally friendly. The container system 100 can also provide improved shipping capabilities. The container system 100 can also have an aesthetically pleasing appearance while being easy to assemble / disassemble. This can enhance customer experience and satisfaction. In addition, the method 200 of assembling the container system 100 according to the present invention can allow for easy assembly and disassembly of the container system 100.

[0138] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, each document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or patent application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or the benefit of, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any present invention disclosed or claimed herein, or that it alone or in combination with any other reference or references proposes, suggests or discloses any such invention. In addition, when any meaning or definition of a term in this invention conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this invention shall govern.

[0139] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A container system, comprising: a first container comprising a first wall defining at least one first opening therethrough; at least one second container, the at least one second container comprising a second wall disposed adjacent to the first wall, the second wall defining at least one second opening therethrough, wherein the at least one second opening is aligned with the at least one first opening; and at least one connecting member at least partially received within the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening, the at least one connecting member comprising: a narrow portion extending between a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a first wide portion disposed at the first end of the narrow portion; and a second wide portion disposed at the second end of the narrow portion, wherein a width of the narrow portion is smaller than a width of each of the first wide portion and the second wide portion, wherein the width of the first wide portion is greater than a maximum width of the at least one first opening, and wherein the width of the second wide portion is greater than a maximum width of the at least one second opening; in: the narrow portion being at least partially received within each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening; The first wide portion is received within the first container, the first wide portion extending across the at least one first opening and engaging the first wall on opposite sides of the at least one first opening; and The second wide portion is arranged adjacent to the second wall and extends across the at least one second opening, so that the at least one connecting member secures the at least one second container to the first container, wherein the at least one connecting member is at least partially insertable through the at least one second opening and the at least one first opening in a first orientation, so that the narrow portion is at least partially received within each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening, the first wide portion is received within the first container adjacent to the first wall, and the second wide portion is arranged adjacent to the second wall, and wherein upon insertion, the at least one connecting member is rotatable from the first orientation to a second orientation, so that the at least one connecting member secures the at least one second container to the first container when in the second orientation.

2. The container system of claim 1, wherein the at least one connecting member defines a connecting axis extending along the narrow portion, and wherein the at least one connecting member is rotatable about the connecting axis between the first orientation and the second orientation.

3. The container system of claim 2, wherein each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening comprises a central opening portion and a pair of elongated opening portions extending from opposite sides of the central opening portion, the central opening portion defining the maximum width of each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening, wherein the width of each of the pair of elongated opening portions is less than the maximum width of the central opening portion, wherein the width of the narrow portion is less than or equal to the maximum width of the central opening portion, such that the at least one connecting member can be rotated relative to the central opening portion between the first orientation and the second orientation, and wherein the width of the narrow portion is greater than the width of each of the pair of elongated opening portions, such that the narrow portion is fixed within the central opening portion.

4. The container system of claim 2 or 3, wherein each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening defines an opening axis along its length, wherein in the first orientation, each of the first wide portion and the second wide portion is aligned with the opening axis so that the first wide portion can be inserted through each of the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening, and wherein in the second orientation, at least a portion of each of the first wide portion and the second wide portion is not aligned with the opening axis.

5. The container system of claim 4, wherein in the first orientation, each of the first wide portion and the second wide portion is substantially parallel to the opening axis, wherein in the second orientation, each of the first wide portion and the second wide portion is inclined at a certain inclination angle relative to the opening axis, and wherein the inclination angle is between 15 degrees and 90 degrees.

6. The container system of claim 1 , wherein the first wall comprises a first major surface facing the second wall and a second major surface opposite the first major surface, wherein the first wall comprises at least one recessed portion, the at least one recessed portion being arranged proximal to the at least one first opening and extending at least partially from the second major surface to the first major surface, wherein the at least one connecting member further comprises at least one end protrusion extending from the first wide portion toward the second wide portion, and wherein the at least one end protrusion is at least partially received in the at least one recessed portion, thereby preventing rotation of the first wide portion relative to the first wall.

7. A container system according to claim 6, wherein the at least one recessed portion comprises a pair of recessed portions arranged on the opposite sides of the at least one first opening, wherein the at least one end protrusion comprises a pair of end protrusions extending from corresponding opposite ends of the first wide portion toward the second wide portion, and wherein each of the pair of end protrusions is at least partially received in a corresponding recessed portion from the pair of recessed portions.

8. The container system of claim 1 , further comprising a securing member comprising at least one notch, wherein the securing member is at least partially received between the second wide portion and the second wall, wherein the narrow portion is at least partially received within the at least one notch, and wherein the securing member engages the second wide portion and the second wall.

9. The container system of claim 8, wherein the securing member joins the second wide portion, the second wall, and the narrow portion.

10. The container system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one first opening comprises a plurality of first openings spaced apart from one another, wherein the at least one second opening comprises a plurality of second openings spaced apart from one another, wherein each second opening from the plurality of second openings is aligned with a corresponding first opening from the plurality of first openings, wherein the at least one connecting member comprises a plurality of connecting members, and wherein each connecting member of the plurality of connecting members is at least partially received within a corresponding first opening from the plurality of first openings and within a corresponding second opening from the second opening.

11. The container system of claim 10, further comprising a fixing member comprising a plurality of notches corresponding to the plurality of connecting members, wherein the fixing member is at least partially received between the second wide portion and the second wall of each of the plurality of connecting members, wherein the narrow portion of each of the plurality of connecting members is at least partially received within a corresponding notch from the plurality of notches, and wherein the fixing member engages the second wide portion and the second wall of each of the plurality of connecting members.

12. The container system of claim 11, wherein the securing member engages the second wide portion of each connecting member of the plurality of connecting members, the second wall, and the narrow portion of each connecting member.

13. The container system of claim 11, wherein the securing member is disposed on the second wall and comprises: a longitudinal portion extending at least partially along the second wall between opposite ends; a pair of end extensions extending from opposite ends of the longitudinal portion; and an intermediate extension extending from the longitudinal portion between the pair of end extensions such that the intermediate extension, the pair of end extensions and the longitudinal portion together define a pair of notches therebetween, wherein each notch in the pair of notches is aligned with the narrow portion of a corresponding connecting member from a pair of the connecting members; in: the narrow portion being at least partially received within each of the corresponding first opening and the corresponding second opening; the first wide portion being received within the first container, the first wide portion extending across the corresponding first opening and engaging the first wall on opposite sides of the corresponding first opening; the second wide portion being disposed adjacent the second wall and extending across the corresponding second opening; each notch of the pair of notches at least partially receiving the narrow portion of the corresponding connecting member therein; each of the pair of end extensions being at least partially received between the second wide portion of the corresponding connecting member and the second wall, each of the pair of end extensions engaging the narrow portion and the second wide portion of the corresponding connecting member with the second wall; and The intermediate extension extends at least partially between the pair of connecting members and is at least partially received between the second wide portion of each connecting member and the second wall, and the intermediate extension engages the narrow portion and the second wide portion of each connecting member with the second wall, so that the pair of connecting members and the fixing member fix the second container to the first container.

14. The container system of claim 1 , wherein the first container further comprises at least one closure member configured to close the at least one first opening and to be removably attached to the first wall, and wherein the at least one closure member is removed from the at least one first opening before the first container is attached to the at least one second container.

15. A method of assembling the container system of claim 1, the method comprising: placing the second wall of the second container adjacent to the first wall of the first container; aligning the first opening of the first wall with the second opening of the second wall; disposing the connection member in a first orientation relative to the first opening and the second opening; inserting the connecting member through the first opening and the second opening in the first orientation; as well as The connecting member is rotated from the first orientation to a second orientation such that at least a portion of the connecting member is not aligned with the first opening and the second opening.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising receiving an end protrusion of the connecting member at least partially within a recessed portion of the first wall, thereby preventing rotation of the connecting member relative to the first wall.

17. The method of claim 15 or claim 16, further comprising inserting a securing member between the connecting member and the second wall such that the recess of the securing member at least partially receives the connecting member therein and the securing member engages the connecting member and the second wall.

18. A method according to claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the first container is in a closed configuration prior to arranging the second wall of the second container adjacent the first wall of the first container.

19. The method of claim 15 or claim 16, further comprising removing a closure member from the first container to expose the first opening before arranging the second wall of the second container adjacent the first wall of the first container.

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