Inverted dispensing container

Abstract

A container for dispensing a composition includes a container body extending along a longitudinal axis from a bottom end to a top end, the container body defining an interior cavity for holding the composition. The container body includes a neck having a container opening open to the interior cavity, a front wall, a back wall, and a pair of side walls extending between the front wall and the back wall, and a shoulder including a pair of first shoulder walls extending between the neck of the container body and the respective side walls, the first shoulder walls extending at a first non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis. The container further includes a shoulder mate attached to the neck, the shoulder mate extending over the first and second shoulders of the container body and including a nozzle extending therethrough, the nozzle open to the opening.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Containers and other types of packaging are known for retaining and displaying fluids or gels, such as cleaning products, fabric care products, oral care products, etc. Such containers are typically formed with a primary packaging container having a lid attached thereto, the lid having a dispensing opening. To dispense product from the container, the container is usually squeezed to force a certain amount of product out of the opening. However, in many cases, such dispensing results in container deformation, making it more difficult to apply further pressure to dispense additional amounts of product. Furthermore, there is a need for containers that facilitate the dispensing of all product within the dispenser. Summary of the Invention

[0002] In one aspect, the invention may relate to a container designed to hold and / or transfer one or more substances. The container includes a container body extending along a longitudinal axis from a bottom end to a top end, the container body defining an inner cavity for holding a composition. The container body also includes a neck having a container opening to the inner cavity; a front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls extending between the front and rear walls; and a shoulder including a pair of first shoulder walls extending between the neck and corresponding side walls of the container body, the first shoulder walls extending at a first non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis. The container also includes a shoulder fitting attached to the neck, the shoulder fitting extending over the first and second shoulders of the container body and including a nozzle extending therethrough, the nozzle opening to the opening.

[0003] In one aspect, the container may include a lid removably mounted on a container body, the lid being transparent. The lid may be fitted with a cover therein, the size and shape of which complement the size and shape of the shoulder fitting. In one aspect, the cover may be formed of an opaque material so that it is visible through the lid. In one aspect, the cover of the lid may be threadedly engaged with the shoulder fitting. When the lid is positioned on the container body, the end wall of the cover may abut against a nozzle opening in a closed configuration.

[0004] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a container for dispensing a composition, the container comprising a container body extending along a longitudinal axis from a bottom end to a top end, the container body defining an inner cavity for holding the composition. The container body also includes a neck having a container opening open to the inner cavity; a front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls extending between the front and rear walls; and a shoulder including a pair of first shoulder walls extending between the neck and corresponding side walls of the container body, the first shoulder walls extending at a first non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis. The container also includes a shoulder fitting attached to the neck, the shoulder fitting extending over a first shoulder and a second shoulder of the container body and including a nozzle extending therethrough, the nozzle being open to the opening. The container also includes a cap removably mounted on the container body and a cover attached to an inner surface of the cap, the size and shape of the cover being complementary to the size and shape of the shoulder fitting.

[0005] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a container for dispensing a composition, the container comprising a container body extending along a longitudinal axis from a bottom end to a top end, the container body defining an inner cavity for holding the composition. The container body includes a neck having a container opening open to the inner cavity; a front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls extending between the front and rear walls; and a shoulder including a pair of first shoulder walls extending between the neck and corresponding side walls of the container body, and a pair of second shoulder walls extending between the neck and a corresponding one of the front and rear walls, the first shoulder walls extending at a first non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis, and the second shoulder walls forming a second non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis, the second angle being different from the first angle. The container also includes a shoulder fitting attached to the neck, the shoulder fitting including a nozzle extending therethrough, the nozzle being open to an opening, wherein each of the first shoulder walls extends at an angle of 65 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis, wherein the shoulder also includes a pair of second shoulder walls extending between the neck and a corresponding one of the front and rear walls, wherein the second shoulder walls form a second non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis, the second angle being different from the first angle.

[0006] Other applications of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided below. It should be understood that while the detailed description and specific examples indicate preferred embodiments of the invention, they are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0007] The invention will be more fully understood through detailed description and accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0008] Figure 1 This is the front view of the example container as described in this article;

[0009] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The container shown is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the portion intercepted by line AA;

[0010] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A 3D view of the container shown;

[0011] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The side view of the container shown;

[0012] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 The rear view of the container shown;

[0013] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A front view of the container body in a state where it is separated from the shoulder fitting;

[0014] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A side view of the container body;

[0015] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A three-dimensional view of the container body;

[0016] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 An enlarged view of the neck section of the container body;

[0017] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A side view of the neck portion of the container body;

[0018] Figure 11 yes Figure 1 First perspective view of the shoulder fitting of the container;

[0019] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 Second perspective view of the shoulder fitting;

[0020] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 Top view of the shoulder fitting;

[0021] Figure 14 yes Figure 11 Side view of the shoulder fitting;

[0022] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A partial cross-sectional view of the shoulder fitting along axis AA;

[0023] Figure 16 yes Figure 13A cross-sectional view of the shoulder fitting along axis BB;

[0024] Figure 17 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the shoulder fitting according to another embodiment;

[0025] Figure 18 yes Figure 1 A top-view perspective of the container lid;

[0026] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A three-dimensional view of the lid from below;

[0027] Figure 20 yes Figure 18 Top view of the lid;

[0028] Figure 21 yes Figure 18 The cover along Figure 20 A partial cross-sectional view taken from the axis CC;

[0029] Figure 22 yes Figure 1 A top-view perspective of the container's lid;

[0030] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 A three-dimensional view of the cover from below;

[0031] Figure 24 yes Figure 22 A top view of the cover;

[0032] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of the cover taken along axis DD;

[0033] Figure 26 yes Figure 22 Side view of the cover;

[0034] Figure 27 This is a side view of the neck of the container body; and

[0035] Figure 28 It is the side of the neck of another container body. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The following description of preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or its uses.

[0037] The description of illustrative embodiments of the invention is intended to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are considered an integral part of the entire written description. Any references to direction or orientation in the description of embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are for convenience of description only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “upward,” “downward,” “top,” and “bottom,” and their derivatives (e.g., “horizontally,” “downward,” “upward,” etc.) should be understood to refer to the orientation as described later or shown in the accompanying drawings. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require the device to be constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless explicitly stated otherwise. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, terms such as “attached,” “joined,” “connected,” “linked,” “interconnected,” etc., refer to relationships in which structures are directly or indirectly fixed or attached to each other through intermediate structures, and attachments or relationships that are movable or rigid. Furthermore, features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference to exemplary embodiments. Therefore, the present invention should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments that show some possible non-limiting combinations of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0038] As used throughout, a range is used as a concise way to describe the individual values ​​within that range and each value. Any value within a range can be chosen as an endpoint of the range. Furthermore, all references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In the event of any conflict between the definitions in this disclosure and those in the cited references, this disclosure shall prevail.

[0039] The container described herein is configured for inverted storage, wherein the lid rests on a table, counter, or other flat or substantially flat surface. The container is configured with a geometry selected to facilitate the flow of the composition from the container at a predetermined flow rate. Furthermore, the container and its components, including but not limited to nozzle size and container shoulders and openings, are configured to control the flow rate of the composition from the container to a predetermined flow rate. This flow rate is selected to allow the dispensing of a specific amount of composition while preventing excessive flow that could lead to waste or accumulation of the composition in the lid. Additionally, the exemplary container minimizes the amount of physical force required to dispense the stated amount of composition. Conventional inverted storage containers attempt to address the problem of excessive or undesirable flow rates by including a one-way valve or a deflectable membrane that completely covers the nozzle opening. However, such containers suffer from negative pressure within the container because air is difficult to enter the one-way valve or deflectable membrane during or after dispensing. Such containers subsequently deform under negative internal pressure, causing instability in the container itself and making subsequent dispensing more difficult. That is, during subsequent use, the user may need to apply a greater amount of compressive force to expel the composition from the container. Furthermore, since air bubbles may be trapped within the composition itself, the dispensing force applied to the container may instead expel the bubbles, potentially causing the composition to splash or spray out of the container. The exemplary container described herein is configured to guide air through a dispensing nozzle during and / or after dispensing, wherein the container's construction guides the air along a path inconsistent with the flow path of the composition itself, as described in more detail later. This exemplary configuration also utilizes a nozzle configured to allow flow only when a compressive force is applied to the container, thereby preventing unwanted leakage. Specifically, the nozzle diameter and the length of the channel extending through the nozzle are selected to ensure the flow rate remains within a predetermined desired range. The exemplary nozzle does not require a membrane or one-way valve, thus reducing manufacturing costs and time. Furthermore, the exemplary container described herein is formed from components that are fully recyclable and acceptable to the current recirculated flow. Additionally, the exemplary container described herein is configured to allow the discharge of a larger volume of product stored therein compared to a standard container. That is, the exemplary shoulder and nozzle configuration of the container described herein allows the discharge of a larger volume of product, such that almost no product remains in the container when the consumer or other user finishes using the product. As those skilled in the art will understand, many current containers are configured such that a certain amount of product remains trapped within the container (e.g., trapped in the container shoulder, trapped in the nozzle, etc.). Current recycling facilities do not accept containers containing residual product. Therefore, even if a container is formed of recyclable material, it may be discarded from the recycling stream due to the presence of residual product. In contrast, the exemplary container described herein is not only formed of recyclable material but also designed to facilitate the discharge of all or virtually all of its contents, allowing the container to be accepted into the recycling stream.

[0040] Furthermore, while conventional containers include nozzles disposed on the opening, the exemplary container 100 described herein includes a shoulder fitting 154 resting on the entire end portion of the container body, including the opening and its shoulder. The exemplary shoulder fitting is configured to engage with a correspondingly formed cap in the lid to stably position the container body on the cap in an inverted configuration. By employing a separately formed shoulder fitting, the exemplary container 100 is able to incorporate more complex features compared to standard blow-molded bottles, features that allow for better control of the flow path therethrough. That is, the shoulder fitting is configured to attach to the container body after it has been filled with the desired product, thereby allowing for faster filling of the container during manufacturing steps. Exemplary shoulder fitting 154. Furthermore, while modern containers may be formed with nozzles disposed only above the opening in the container body, the exemplary shoulder fitting includes a shoulder fitting extending over both the opening and the shoulder of the container body.

[0041] Figures 1 to 26 An exemplary container 100 is shown in Figure 28. Container 100 may include a container body 102 having a top end 104, a bottom end 106 having an opening 103 formed therein, and a middle portion 108. The middle portion 108 may be located between the top end 104 and the bottom end 106. The container body 102 may extend along a longitudinal axis L from the bottom end 104 to the top end 106. The outer surface of the container body 102 may include a curved recess or indentation at the middle portion 108. Alternatively, the container body 102 may include a linearly tapered external geometry. The container body 102 may define an interior cavity, such as a cavity 110 for containing a large quantity of product (e.g., one or more fluid substances, gels, solids (e.g., powders and / or tablets), gases, combinations of one or more substances, etc.). In one embodiment, the product 112 stored in the cavity 110 may be an oral care composition having a paste or gel consistency. In other embodiments, the product 112 may be a liquid or a solid. The lid 200 can be removably attached to the container body 102, as will be discussed in more detail later.

[0042] Compared to Figures 6 to 9The container body 102 is discussed in more detail. The container body 102 includes an elongated body extending from a top end 104 to a bottom end 106, and has a front surface 116, a rear surface 118, and a pair of lateral side surfaces 120 extending between each of the front surface 116 and the rear surface 118. The bottom end 106 also includes a shoulder portion 122 and a neck 124 with a reduced diameter. The outer surface of the shoulder portion 120 is defined by a first curved cutout 126 formed on the front surface 116, the upper edge 128 of which follows a U-shaped curve, wherein the apex or peak 130 is aligned with the central longitudinal axis L on each of the front surface 116 and the rear surface 118. The upper edge 128 forms a valley 132 along each of the side surfaces 120, wherein each of the two valleys 132 of the upper edge 128 is closer to the top end 104 than the corresponding peak 130. Figure 6 Only one of them is shown in the image.

[0043] Container 100 (e.g., container body 102) may be formed from one or more polyolefins (polypropylene, low-density polyethylene, medium-density polyethylene, and high-density polyethylene). Container 100 may be formed from one or more of polyethylene terephthalate (“PET”) (e.g., formed by injection stretch blow molding) and / or elastomeric materials. Container 100 may be formed by one or more combinations of the above. In other examples, container 100 may be formed from one or more other materials.

[0044] The shoulder portion 122 also includes a pair of shoulders 134, 136, which have a reduced outer profile due to the cut 126 compared to the adjacent portion above the cut 126 of the container body 102. Each of the shoulders 134, 136 includes a first wall 138 extending aligned with the longitudinal axis L of the container body 102 and a second wall 140 connected to the first wall 138 along a shoulder edge 142. The shoulder edge 142 may be formed as a slope with a predetermined surface area. The first wall 138 may extend at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis L of the container body 102. For example, as Figure 9As shown in more detail below, the first wall 138 can form an angle α of 0° to 45° relative to the longitudinal axis L. The angle α is chosen to ensure a firm fit (e.g., friction fit) with the shoulder fitting 154 mounted on the shoulder portion 122. The second wall 140 is formed at a predetermined and precisely calculated angle to control the flow of both the product 112 and the air passing through it. Specifically, the first portion 140-1 of the second wall 140, located on each of the front surface 116 and the rear surface 118, is angled to form an angle β1 with a plane P extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. The angle β1 can range from 20° to 60°, and more specifically from 40° to 50°, and even more specifically from 47° to 50°. In other words, the first portion 140-1 can form an angle of 65° or approximately 65° relative to the longitudinal axis L. A portion 140-2 of the second wall extending along the side surface 120 forms an angle β2 with a plane P intersecting the longitudinal axis L, the plane P extending parallel to the surface on which the container 100 rests (i.e., the plane extending parallel to the plane extension of the planar surface 202 that receives the lid 200). That is, the exemplary container 100 has been found to provide a flow path of 25° angle β2 that facilitates the flow of product 112 from the container 100. In contrast, currently available containers are formed with shoulders extending perpendicular to the container's longitudinal axis, which causes product to be trapped inside the container and often requires excessive force to empty its contents. In many cases, such containers cannot empty all their contents due to the container geometry, particularly the geometry of the shoulders. Furthermore, the exemplary angle β2 of the present invention is chosen to allow air to flow into the container 100 along a desired flow path. That is, referring to… Figure 2When product 112 leaves the container in direction 1 (i.e., when a compressive force is applied to the outside of the container body 102), air is allowed to enter the container body 102 in direction 2. Angle β2 guides the air along the path indicated by directional arrow 2 towards the side wall of the container and into the container body 102. In contrast, currently available devices guide air into the container in direction 3, which directly enters the product contained within the container. When the product is not a liquid, such as in the current case, any air flowing into the container in direction 3 is trapped in the container body as bubbles. Such bubbles hinder further product dispensing, requiring excessive force (i.e., a force greater than that required for initial dispensing) to dispense a larger quantity of product. Furthermore, when subsequent quantities are dispensed, the trapped bubbles are pushed back from the nozzle, resulting in product ejection. An exemplary angled shoulder of container 100 is configured such that any air flowing into container 100 is directed away from the central longitudinal axis L of the container, resulting in the same flow rate as the initial dispensing and preventing product from splashing from the nozzle, thereby minimizing / avoiding product loss, preventing product from splashing onto unwanted surfaces, and avoiding the need to apply excessive force when dispensing subsequent amounts of product. Furthermore, the exemplary angle β2 allows product 112 to flow out of container 100 at a controlled rate, terminating when the compressive force on the outer surface of container body 102 is released. Specifically, although testing has determined that the shoulder extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of container 100, it has also been determined that simply incorporating a non-perpendicular angle is insufficient to produce the desired controlled flow rate. For example, an angle β2 that is too small (e.g., 15°) is insufficient to direct air along the desired path B. Similarly, a shoulder angle β2 that is too large (e.g., 75°) will result in excessive outflow from the container and impede air inflow into the container, resulting in a negative pressure within the container. Preferably, the angle β2 is 25° when measured relative to plane P. Angle β2 relative to plane P can alternatively range from 20° to 90°, and more specifically from 25° to 55°, and more specifically from 25° to 40°. In other words, wall 140-2 can be at an angle of 0° to 70° relative to the longitudinal axis L, and more specifically from 35° to 65°, and more specifically from 50° to 65°, and more specifically from 65°. According to an exemplary design, the diameter of opening 103 can be increased when the angle decreases, and decreased when the angle increases, to provide a controlled flow rate therefrom. Alternatively, the diameter of opening 103 can remain constant.

[0045] The neck 124 of the container body 102 is formed with an upwardly tapering beveled lip 144 extending from an elongated shaft 146, wherein the outer diameter of the tapering beveled lip 144 is larger than the outer diameter of the elongated shaft 146. A planar wall 148 is provided on the tapering beveled lip 144 opposite to the bottom end 106, and the combination of the tapering beveled lip 144 and the planar wall 148 allows the shoulder fitting 154 to lock onto the shoulder portion 122. The tapering beveled lip 144 also includes one or more slit tabs 150 extending at least partially therein, the slit tabs 150 allowing partial deformation of the lip 144 when the shoulder fitting 154 slides thereon. Although Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 The text describes a single incision flap 150, but imagine any plurality of flaps (e.g., two flaps 150, separated from each other by 180 degrees on the outer circumference of the lip 144, three flaps 150, each flap 150 separated from the adjacent flap by 120 degrees, four flaps 150, each flap 150 separated from the adjacent flap by 90 degrees, etc.).

[0046] A shoulder fitting 154 is configured and adapted to rest on a shoulder portion 122 of the container body 102. The shoulder fitting 154 extends from a first end 156 including a nozzle 158 to a second end 160 including a base 162. The nozzle 158 includes an opening 164 that opens to the product 112 stored therein when the shoulder fitting 154 is properly positioned on the container body 102. The diameter of the opening 164 is selected to allow a predetermined flow rate out of the container 100. Specifically, extensive testing was conducted to determine a nozzle opening diameter that allows the product 112 to flow out of the container at a desired flow rate while minimizing and / or preventing the formation of negative pressure within the container 100, as will be described in more detail later. The nozzle 158 includes a first portion 157 having a generally conical shape terminating at a slightly enlarged lip 161 and a second portion 159 having a cylindrical shape and one or more threads 163 formed on its outer surface. The threads 163 are sized, configured, and arranged to engage corresponding grooves 222 formed in the cap 200, as will be discussed in more detail later. The shoulder fitting 154 also includes one or more thread starters 166 configured to aid in the alignment of the threads 163 with the corresponding grooves 222 formed in the cap 200.

[0047] The base 162 includes a dome-shaped region 168 centered on the longitudinal axis L. The outer surface of the dome-shaped region 168 is configured to rest within a corresponding recess 230 formed in the cover 210 of the cap 200, as will be discussed in more detail later. The inner surface 169 of the dome-shaped region 168 includes a first circular rib 170 extending aligned with the longitudinal axis L, the first surface 171 of the first circular rib 170 including a protrusion 172. A circular recess 173 is defined between the first surface 171 of the first circular rib 170 and the second surface 175 of the second circular rib 174, in which the neck 124 of the container body 102 is placed. In the operational configuration, the shoulder fitting 154 is positioned and pressed onto the bottom end 106 of the container body 102, such that the tapered lip 144 rests within the circular recess 173. During the insertion, the engagement of the tapered wall of the lip 144 with the protrusion 172 can cause one or both of the radial outward deflection of the first circular rib 170 and the radial inward deflection of the lip 144. After the tapered lip has moved past the protrusion 172, the engagement of the planar wall 148 with the protrusion 172 locks the shoulder fitting 154 in place on the container body 102.

[0048] The base 162 also includes a belt 176 having an outer contour that substantially matches the cross-sectional shape of the container body 102, such that when the shoulder fitting 154 is locked onto the container body 102, the belt 176 is flush with the outer surface of the container body 102. The inner surface 177 of the belt 176 is configured and sized to contact the first wall 138 and the second wall 140 of the shoulders 134, 136.

[0049] Opening 164 opens to channel 178 extending through shoulder fitting 154. Optionally, channel 178 may include orifice throttle 179 restricting the flow of product 112. Orifice throttle may be formed of silicone, polyethylene, or any other known material. Orifice throttle 179 may be formed of the same material as or a different material from shoulder fitting 154. Orifice throttle 179 is spaced from opening 164 at the end of shoulder fitting nozzle 158 at a predetermined distance of 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably 2 mm to 3 mm. In one example, orifice throttle 179 may be spaced 2.3 mm from opening 164. Exemplary orifice throttle 179 is merely a narrow portion of channel 178 and allows bidirectional flow to allow product 112 to flow out of container 100 while also allowing airflow to enter to maintain pressure balance within the container. As will be described in more detail later, the construction of container 100 is specifically designed so that a one-way valve is not required at the nozzle, and container 100 allows a predetermined flow rate to flow out without problems of excessive flow and / or leakage. The orifice throttle 179 is separated from the nozzle opening by a minimum non-zero distance L2, such as... Figure 15As depicted. For example, distance L2 can be selected to provide a gap to allow easy removal of the shoulder fitting 154 from the mold during the molding process. Specifically, the distance L2 allows for some deflection of the nozzle during both manufacturing and use.

[0050] In another implementation scheme, such as Figure 16 As depicted, the shoulder fitting 154' can be formed substantially similarly to the shoulder fitting 154, except that the orifice throttle 179 is not included in the channel 178. The diameter D' of the opening 164' can be smaller than the diameter D of the opening 164. That is, while the diameter D can be in the range of 5 mm to 10 mm, preferably 7 mm to 8 mm, and more preferably 7.2 mm, the diameter D' can be in the range of 5 mm to 10 mm, preferably 6 mm to 7 mm, and more preferably 6.6 mm. The diameter DV of the opening 180 of the orifice throttle 179 can be about 2 mm to 3 mm, preferably 2.8 mm.

[0051] The nozzle length SL of the channel 178 of the shoulder fitting 154 is selected to ensure a predetermined flow rate out of the container 100 and to minimize product retention within the nozzle. Specifically, extensive testing has determined that longer nozzle lengths SL result in the undesirable effect of product (i.e., the oral care composition) adhering to the inner surface of the nozzle. For example, as will be described below, a nozzle length SL of 12.7 mm has been determined to be superior to a nozzle length SL of 15.3 mm. Different nozzle lengths ranging from 12.7 mm to 21.4 mm have been tested; nozzle lengths from 12.7 mm to 18.8 mm are preferred for optimizing product outflow and airflow, while also providing good visibility for the user when dispensing product 112.

[0052] An exemplary nozzle 158 is configured and sized to have a pre-selected inner surface area. The inner surface area of ​​nozzle 158 is defined as the portion of the inner surface of nozzle 158 that coincides with channel 178, such as... Figures 15-16 As depicted herein. In other words, the inner surface area is the portion of the inner surface of the nozzle 158 that contacts the product 112 when the product 112 is dispensed. The exemplary nozzle 158 is sized to have a length SL and a nozzle diameter D selected to produce the desired inner surface area. In a preferred embodiment where the nozzle diameter D is 7.2 mm and the length SL is 12.7 mm, the inner surface area is 468 mm². 2 Up to 470mm 2 In the embodiment where the orifice throttle 179 is provided, the diameter DV can be 2.8 mm and the inner surface area can be 456 mm². 2An exemplary nozzle 158 is configured to minimize the nozzle length SL and increase the nozzle diameter D to reduce the volume of product 112 in physical contact with the inner surface of the nozzle, thereby preventing product 112 from adhering to the inner surface of the nozzle. This configuration eliminates the need to apply a coating (e.g., LiquiGlide, etc.) to the inner surface of the nozzle, instead facilitating the flow of product 112 through the nozzle. In contrast, current containers are formed with an enlarged inner surface area, which often results in product being trapped inside the nozzle, thus hindering product dispensing. In one example, the nozzle is formed with a smaller diameter D of 6 mm and a longer length SL of 15.3 mm, producing 1426 mm. 2 The inner surface area. However, it was found that the nozzle caused the product to be trapped inside the nozzle or otherwise become adhered to the inner surface of the nozzle, thereby hindering product dispensing or unintentionally causing excessive product to be dispensed due to the increased compressive force required to dispense the product through the nozzle.

[0053] Furthermore, in conjunction with the aforementioned nozzle length SL, tests revealed that variations in the diameter D of the opening 164 affected the flow rate. In the current configuration, tests were conducted, where a diameter D of 6.0 mm was found to produce an excessively low flow rate, while increasing the diameter D to, for example, 7.2 mm produced a more desirable flow rate. The preferred flow rate in the exemplary configuration allows for controlled dispensing of product 112 from nozzle 158, while also allowing air to enter nozzle 158 (i.e., via opening 164) during and after dispensing to prevent the formation of negative pressure within container 100.

[0054] In addition, such as Figure 16 As depicted, the exemplary nozzle 158 is configured to provide a desired line of sight LS that facilitates visualization of the product within the nozzle 158 to aid in its dispensing. Specifically, the line of sight LS is defined as the angle at which a user orients the container 100 when dispensing the product 112 onto, for example, an oral care appliance. The exemplary nozzle diameter D, nozzle length SL, conical nozzle shape, and width of the band 176 together provide a line of sight LS of 29°, which allows the user to see at least a portion of the product 112 as it leaves the opening 164. The line of sight is the angle formed between the longitudinal axis L of the container body and the shoulder mating member and a tangential plane TP that extends tangentially to and intersects the shoulder mating member 154. This exemplary angle facilitates the dispensing of the product 112 and provides a greater degree of user control over dispensing compared to containers configured with a line of sight that does not allow visualization of the product when dispensing it from the container. In one embodiment, the angle LS can be any angle less than 30°. For example, the angle LS can be 29° or 17°. It should be noted that these values ​​are merely exemplary, and other values ​​less than 30° are also contemplated within the scope of this invention.

[0055] In one exemplary embodiment, the values ​​of the inner surface area SA of the nozzle 158 and the nozzle orifice diameter D are selected according to the following ratio R:

[0056]

[0057] For example, exemplary configurations of the present invention are detailed below:

[0058]

[0059] In another exemplary configuration, D is 5mm and SA is 385mm. 2 An R value of 0.0129 was obtained. This configuration produces a preferred flow that helps guide air into the nozzle as the product is dispensed, while also guiding air along the sides of the nozzle. Testing has determined that a D / SA ratio of less than 0.0100 causes air to enter the nozzle 158 along its central axis, resulting in cavitation that travels upward from the central longitudinal axis L of the container 100 and is trapped in the product 112. In contrast, the exemplary size of the nozzle described above guides air into the nozzle 158 along the outer periphery of the nozzle orifice, with cavitation further directed toward the angled second wall 140. As described earlier in more detail, the second wall 140 guides cavitation upward toward the sides of the container 100. This exemplary configuration allows the dispensing of viscous products 112, such as gels or pastes (i.e., non-liquid products), without encountering the problem of cavitation being trapped within the product. Those skilled in the art will understand that gel / paste products 112 have a higher viscosity than liquids such as water, which do not encounter the problem of cavitation being trapped during dispensing. The exemplary nozzles and containers described herein allow for the dispensing of higher viscosity products without encountering the problem of cavitation trapped within the product (which hinders proper dispensing). For example, for nozzles with an 830mm diameter... 2 The inner surface area and the orifice diameter D of nozzle 158 were tested.

[0060]

[0061] It was found that this configuration causes air to travel upwards from the central axis of the nozzle and container, resulting in cavitation in the product 112 when dispensing viscous products, and causing undesirable spraying effects.

[0062] Figures 18 to 21The illustration depicts a cover 200 without the cover 210. The cover 200 includes a planar surface 202 on which the container 100 rests in an operational configuration. The cover 200 is hollow and has an opening 204 formed therein, the size and shape of which are configured to securely hold the cover 210 therein. The cover 200 may be formed of polyethylene, and in one embodiment, the cover 200 may be formed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) with a smooth surface finish. In one instance, the cover 200 is transparent, but opaque materials are also contemplated. In the preferred embodiment where the cover 200 is transparent, the cover 210 is opaque.

[0063] for Figures 22 to 26 The cover 210 is described in more detail. The outer periphery 212 of the first end 214 of the cover 210 is configured to be flush-mounted within the cover 200, such that a portion of the cover 210 does not extend beyond the cover 200, for example... Figure 2 As can be seen from the image. The nozzle mounting portion 216 of the cover is configured to house the first portion 157 and the second portion 159 of the nozzle 158 therein, and the shape of the nozzle mounting portion 216 substantially matches the shape of the nozzle 158 (i.e., having a cylindrical component 218 and a substantially tapered portion 220). The inner surface of the nozzle mounting portion 216 includes one or more threaded grooves 222 configured to thread-engage threads 163.

[0064] The second end 213 of the cover 210 is closed via a wall 224. The inner surface of the wall 224 includes a component 226 with a diameter equal to, substantially equal to, or smaller than the diameter of the opening 164. In the operational configuration, when the container 100 is closed, the component 226 is received within the opening 164, thus sealing or blocking the passage 178 to prevent any unwanted leakage when the container 100 is in a closed, inverted configuration. The inner surface of the cover 216 also includes at least one recess 228 sized and shaped to accommodate a threaded initiation 166 and a curved recess 230 sized and shaped to accommodate a dome region 168.

[0065] like Figures 27 to 28As depicted, the container body 102 has an exemplary internal geometry designed to provide a transition wall 190 between the elongated axis 146 of the neck 124 and the second wall 140 of the shoulder 134. The transition wall 190 is formed to minimize any protrusions of the transition wall 190 toward the cavity 110 of the container body 102. Specifically, the transition wall 190 is configured such that a first tangential plane TP1 extending tangentially to the transition wall 190 is substantially aligned with a vertical plane PP extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and parallel to the surface on which the container 100 can rest. In this configuration, there is a smooth transition without bulges or protrusions extending between the inner surface of the neck and the inner surface of the shoulder. This configuration prevents obstruction of product flow. In contrast, Figure 28 A non-preferred transition wall 190' with a protrusion 191 formed thereon is depicted, the transition wall 190' being configured such that a second tangential plane TP2 extending tangentially to the transition wall 190' is substantially not aligned with the vertical plane PP. In a preferred embodiment, the angle γ1 formed between plane TP1 and PP is a negative angle, while the angle γ2 formed between plane TP2 and PP is a positive angle. The transition wall 190' results in the formation of the protrusion 191 within the container 102, which inhibits the flow of product 112 from the container 100 while also altering the path of airflow into the container. The exemplary container body 102 is formed of a predetermined amount of material such that no protrusion is formed at the transition wall 190 during the blow molding process.

[0066] During the manufacturing process, an exemplary container body 102 is formed and its inner surface is coated with a predetermined amount of coating 107. The coefficient of friction between the product 112 and the coating 107 may be less than the coefficient of friction between the product 112 and the inner surface of the body 102. The coating 107 prevents the product 112 from adhering to the inner surface of the body 102, thereby allowing the product 112 to slide, wobble, or otherwise move within the internal volume of the body 102 when a user rotates the container 100. In at least one embodiment, the coating 107 may be a liquid-impregnated surface or include a liquid-impregnated surface, as described in U.S. Patent No. 8,940,361. For example, the coating 107 may comprise a matrix of solid features spaced sufficiently close together to stably contain liquid therebetween or therein. In at least one embodiment, the coating 107 may be manufactured by LiquiGlide Inc. of Cambridge, Massachusetts. Or including those manufactured by LiquiGlide Inc. of Cambridge, Massachusetts. After applying coating 107, product 112 can be used to fill container body 102. Shoulder fitting 154 is then positioned on container body 102 and locked to it via snap-fit ​​or friction-fit lock. Cap 200 is separately assembled with cover 210, which is locked therein. Cap 200 is then threaded onto the container body 102 / shoulder fitting 154 assembly.

[0067] The container body 102, shoulder fitting 154, lid 200, and cover 210 may be formed from one or more of polyolefins (polypropylene, low-density polyethylene, medium-density polyethylene, and high-density polyethylene), PET, and / or elastomeric materials, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, lid 200 is formed of a transparent material, while the cover is opaque, allowing the cover 210 to be seen through lid 200. Shoulder fitting 154 may also be opaque, wherein at least band 176 is coated with a metallic layer to enhance the appearance of container 100.

[0068] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples including the currently preferred mode of implementation, those skilled in the art will understand that various variations and substitutions of the above-described system and techniques are possible. It should be understood that other embodiments can be utilized, and structural and functional modifications can be made, without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the invention should be interpreted broadly as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A container for dispensing a composition, the container comprising: A container body extending along a longitudinal axis from bottom to top, the container body defining an inner cavity for holding the composition, the container body comprising: The neck defines an opening into the cavity; A front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls extending between the front wall and the rear wall; The shoulder includes a pair of first shoulder walls extending between the neck and a corresponding sidewall of the container body, the first shoulder walls extending at a first angle of 35 to 65 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis; and A shoulder fitting, attached to the neck, extending on the first shoulder wall of the container body and including a nozzle extending therethrough, the nozzle opening to the opening.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein each of the first shoulder walls extends at an angle of 65 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

3. The container of claim 1, wherein the shoulder further comprises a pair of second shoulder walls extending between the neck and a corresponding one of the front wall and the rear wall, wherein the second shoulder walls form a second non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis, the second angle being different from the first angle.

4. The container of claim 1, wherein the channel extends through the nozzle and is open to a nozzle opening, the diameter of which is smaller than the diameter of the opening.

5. The container according to claim 4, wherein the ratio of the diameter of the nozzle opening to the inner surface area of ​​the channel is greater than or equal to 0.

01.

6. The container according to claim 5, wherein the length of the channel is 12.7 mm.

7. The container of claim 5, wherein the diameter of the nozzle opening is 5 mm to 10 mm, and wherein the inner surface area is 385 mm². 2 Up to 470 mm 2 .

8. The container of claim 7, wherein the diameter of the nozzle opening is 7.5 mm, and wherein the inner surface area is 456 mm². 2 .

9. The container of claim 1, further comprising a lid removably disposed on the container body, the lid being transparent, wherein the lid further comprises a cover disposed therein, the size and shape of the cover being complementary to the size and shape of the shoulder fitting.

10. The container of claim 9, wherein the cover of the lid is threadedly engaged with the shoulder fitting.

11. The container of claim 9, wherein when the cover is positioned on the container body, the end wall of the cover abuts against the nozzle opening in a closed configuration.

12. The container of claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the container body between the neck and the shoulder comprises a smooth surface without protrusions.

13. A container for dispensing a composition, comprising: A container body extending along a longitudinal axis from bottom to top, the container body defining an inner cavity for holding the composition, the container body comprising: A neck having a container opening that opens into the cavity; A front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls extending between the front wall and the rear wall; and The shoulder includes a pair of first shoulder walls extending between the neck and a corresponding sidewall of the container body, the first shoulder walls extending at a first angle of 35 to 65 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis. A shoulder fitting, the shoulder fitting being attached to the neck, the shoulder fitting extending on the first shoulder wall of the container body and including a nozzle extending therethrough, the nozzle being open to the opening; A lid, which is removably mounted on the container body; and A cover, which is attached to the inner surface of the cover, the size and shape of which are complementary to the size and shape of the shoulder fitting.

14. The container of claim 13, wherein the lid is transparent and the cover is opaque.

15. The container of claim 13, wherein each of the first shoulder walls extends at an angle of 65 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

16. The container of claim 13, wherein the shoulder further comprises a pair of second shoulder walls extending between the neck and a corresponding one of the front wall and the rear wall, wherein the second shoulder walls form a second non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis, the second angle being different from the first angle.

17. The container of claim 13, wherein the channel extends through the nozzle and is open to a nozzle opening, the diameter of which is smaller than the diameter of the container opening.

18. The container of claim 17, wherein the length of the channel is 12.7 mm, the diameter of the nozzle opening is 5 mm to 10 mm, and the inner surface area of ​​the channel is 385 mm². 2 Up to 470 mm 2 .

19. The container of claim 13, wherein when the cover is positioned on the container body, the end wall of the cover abuts against the nozzle opening in a closed configuration.

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