container

Abstract

A container for a plurality of articles includes a body, a hollow member fixedly coupled to an end of the body, and a cup member movably coupled to the hollow member. When the cup member is in an open position, the cup member and the hollow member are spaced apart, thereby defining an opening. A slider is movably coupled to the cup member. The slider has a spring such that when the slider is moved in a radial direction relative to the cup member, the slider carries an article toward the opening and the spring on the slider flexes. After dispensing, the spring gradually relaxes, thereby returning the slider.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a container, and more specifically to a container for a plurality of soluble articles. Background Technology

[0002] Some personal care products, including shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, facial cleansers, and hand soaps, are available in solid unit dosage forms. These products can include soluble films, compressed solid powders, fibrous structures, porous foams, soluble deformable solids, powders, sticks, or granules. Ideally, these products can be formulated to dissolve almost immediately upon exposure to liquid water. However, this presents challenges in product storage (as it is often most convenient to store personal care products where they are used (e.g., in the shower, bathtub, or near the sink)), protecting the product through the supply chain, and anticipating shelf life. These convenient storage locations are often very humid, and / or the product / manufacture may be accidentally splashed with water before use, causing it to dissolve into liquid personal care products and / or adhesives.

[0003] Currently, soluble unit-dose products are individually packaged. However, this is inconvenient because consumers must open each product before using and disposing of it, and consumers typically don't have trash cans or recycling containers in the shower. Alternatively, consumers can store the product away from the shower, bathtub, or sink, and then they must remember to bring the product to the place of use each time they need to wash it.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a container that can hold multiple doses of soluble unit-dose consumer products, enabling convenient and intuitive dispensing of the products, and allowing consumers to store the container in humid environments where they will use the product, such as in the shower, bathtub, or sink. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A container for stacking multiple articles on top of each other is disclosed, the container comprising: a body having a hollow shape and extending along a longitudinal axis, the body including a first closed end and a second open end opposite the first closed end; a hollow member fixedly coupled to the body at the second end; a cup member movably coupled to the hollow member, wherein in an open position the cup member and a bottom member are spaced apart to define an opening communicating with the second open end, wherein the cup member includes a base portion defining a closed bottom end of the container; a slider located opposite the opening and including a spring; wherein the slider is movably coupled to the cup member such that the slider is movable relative to the cup member in a radial direction between a spring-relaxed position and a spring-bent position; wherein in a closed position the opening is closed, wherein in an open position the movable opening is at least partially exposed to allow removal of the bottom article of the multiple articles from the container.

[0006] A container for stacking multiple articles on top of each other is disclosed, the container comprising: a body having a hollow tubular shape and extending along a longitudinal axis, the body including a first closed end and a second open end opposite the first closed end; a bottom member fixedly coupled to the body at the second open end; and a movable member movably coupled to the bottom member such that the movable member is movable relative to the bottom member between a closed position and an open position, wherein the movable member defines a movable opening communicating therethrough with the second open end, the movable opening extending at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis; wherein in the closed position the movable opening is closed, wherein in the open position the movable opening is at least partially exposed to allow removal of the bottom article of the multiple articles from the container, and wherein the movable member defines a closed bottom end of the container. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Although this specification concludes by the claims that specifically point out and clearly claim protection for the subject matter of the invention, it is believed that the invention will be more readily understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0008] Figure 1A This is a front perspective view of a container for multiple articles according to a first aspect of the present invention;

[0009] Figure 1B This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the container in Figure 1;

[0010] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the container in Figure 1;

[0011] Figure 3AThis is a side perspective view of the hollow component of the container in Figure 1;

[0012] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A Bottom perspective view of the hollow component;

[0013] Figure 4A This is a top perspective view of the cup component of the container in Figure 1;

[0014] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A Bottom perspective view of the cup component;

[0015] Figure 5A This is a top perspective view of the cam arm of the container in Figure 1;

[0016] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A Bottom perspective view of the cam arm;

[0017] Figure 5C It is along Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of the cam arm taken from line 2-2;

[0018] Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the container taken along line 1-1 in Figure 1;

[0019] Figure 7A This is a top view of the container in a closed configuration as shown in Figure 1, where some components of the container are not shown;

[0020] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A Top perspective view of the container;

[0021] Figure 7C yes Figure 7A The front perspective view of the container;

[0022] Figure 8A This is a top view of the container in the intermediate configuration shown in Figure 1, where some components of the container are not shown;

[0023] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A Top perspective view of the container;

[0024] Figure 9A This is a top view of the container in the open configuration shown in Figure 1, where some components of the container are not shown;

[0025] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A Top perspective view of the container;

[0026] Figure 10A This is a front perspective view of a container for multiple articles according to a second aspect of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 10B yes Figure 10A Bottom perspective view of the container;

[0028] Figure 11 yes Figure 10A An exploded perspective view of the container;

[0029] Figure 12A and Figure 12B It is along Figure 10A Cross-sectional views of containers with different configurations, taken from line 3-3;

[0030] Figure 13A This is a front perspective view of a container for a plurality of articles in an open configuration according to a third aspect of the invention;

[0031] Figure 13B yes Figure 13A Bottom perspective view of the container;

[0032] Figure 13C yes Figure 13A A front perspective view of a container in a closed configuration;

[0033] Figure 14 yes Figure 13A An exploded perspective view of the container;

[0034] Figure 15A yes Figure 13A A front view of a portion of a container, where some components of the container are not shown;

[0035] Figure 15B It is along Figure 15A A cross-sectional view of the container taken by line 5-5;

[0036] Figure 16A and Figure 16B It is along Figure 13A Cross-sectional views of containers with different configurations, taken from line 4-4;

[0037] Figure 17A and Figure 17B This is a front perspective view of containers for multiple articles in open and closed configurations, respectively, according to a fourth aspect of the invention;

[0038] Figure 18 yes Figure 17A An exploded perspective view of the container;

[0039] Figure 19A yes Figure 17A A front view of a portion of a container, where some components of the container are not shown;

[0040] Figure 19B It is along Figure 19AA cross-sectional view of the container taken by line 7-7;

[0041] Figure 20 It is along Figure 17A A cross-sectional view of the container taken by line 6-6;

[0042] Figure 21A and Figure 21B This is a front perspective view of containers for a plurality of articles respectively in a closed configuration and an open configuration according to the fifth aspect of the invention;

[0043] Figure 21C yes Figure 21A An exploded perspective view of the container;

[0044] Figure 22A and Figure 22B It is along Figure 21A The cross-sectional views of the containers in closed and open configurations, respectively, taken from line 8-8;

[0045] Figure 23A and Figure 23B This is a front perspective view of containers for multiple articles in open and closed configurations, respectively, according to the sixth aspect of the invention;

[0046] Figure 24 yes Figure 23A An exploded perspective view of the container;

[0047] Figure 25A yes Figure 23A Top perspective view of the movable components and sliders of the container;

[0048] Figure 25B yes Figure 25A Bottom perspective view of the movable components and sliders;

[0049] Figure 26A and Figure 26B They are Figure 23A Front and bottom perspective views of the container's slider;

[0050] Figure 27A and Figure 27B They are Figure 23A Front perspective and top view of a portion of a container, wherein some components of the container are not shown; and

[0051] Figure 28A and Figure 28B They are Figure 23A being in Figure 27A and Figure 27B Front perspective and top view of a portion of a container with different configurations, where some components of the container are not shown;

[0052] Figure 29It is a cross-sectional view of a container with fixed columns;

[0053] Figure 30A It is a perspective view of the cup component, slider, and hollow component in the closed position;

[0054] Figure 30B This is a perspective view of the slider in its closed and open / ready-to-dispense position;

[0055] Figure 30C This is a perspective view of the cup component, slider, and hollow component in the open / ready-to-dispense position;

[0056] Figure 30D It is a perspective view of the cup component, slider, and hollow component in the position where the bending / product is distributed;

[0057] Figure 30E This is a perspective view of the slider in the position where the bending / product is distributed. Detailed Implementation

[0058] Although the invention is specifically pointed out and clearly claimed by the claims at the end of the specification, it is believed that this disclosure will be better understood from the following description.

[0059] It should be understood that each maximum numerical limit given in this specification includes each lower numerical limit, as such lower numerical limits are explicitly stated herein. Each minimum numerical limit given in this specification will include each higher numerical limit, as such higher numerical limits are explicitly stated herein. Each numerical range given in this specification will include each narrower numerical range falling within such a wider numerical range, as all such narrower numerical ranges are explicitly stated herein.

[0060] This invention relates to a container for multiple arranged articles. The articles can be arranged in an ordered, semi-ordered / seemingly random, or random manner. In some examples, the articles can be stacked on top of each other. In other examples, the articles can be arranged side by side. The multiple articles can be, for example, personal care and other consumer products in solid form, including shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, hand soaps, and facial cleansers. The multiple articles can also be consumer products, including laundry detergents, fabric softeners, fabric softeners, household cleaners, dish soaps, dishwasher detergents, toothpaste, mouthwash, etc. The container can store and dispense multiple articles, and in some examples, the articles can be directly stacked on top of each other and / or arranged side by side without the intervention of materials.

[0061] The container includes a body having a hollow tubular shape and extending along a longitudinal axis. In some examples, the body can be any hollow shape. For example, the body can have a cross-section that can be any shape, including polygons, polygons with rounded corners, circles including ellipses, irregular shapes, etc. The body includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end. At least the second end can be open. The container also includes a hollow member fixedly coupled to the body at the second end and defining a first opening therethrough, the first opening extending at an angle about the longitudinal axis. The container also includes a cup member rotatably coupled to the hollow member, such that the cup member can rotate relative to the hollow member about the longitudinal axis. The cup member defines a second opening therethrough, the second opening extending at an angle about the longitudinal axis. The cup member includes a base portion defining a closed bottom end of the container and defining a recessed track facing the second end of the body. The container also includes a cam arm received within the hollow member and the cup member. A cam arm is movably coupled to the hollow member and includes a protrusion movably engaging the grooved track, such that the cam arm moves relative to the hollow member due to relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member. The body, the hollow member, and the cup member together receive the plurality of articles. The hollow member and the cup member are rotatable relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, a first opening and a second opening are at least partially aligned with each other to form a dispensing opening. In the closed configuration, the first opening and the second opening are not aligned with each other to close the dispensing opening. Due to relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member, the cam arm moves between an engagement position corresponding to the closed configuration and a dispensing position corresponding to the open configuration. In the engagement position, the cam arm can be configured to engage the bottom article of the plurality of articles. The cam arm can also be configured to move the bottom article due to relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member, such that in the dispensing position of the cam arm, the bottom article extends at least partially through the dispensing opening and is removable from the container.

[0062] This container reduces or prevents contact between multiple items stored within it and with moisture present in the external environment where it may be placed (e.g., in a shower, near a sink, or in a damp bathroom). Therefore, the container reduces or prevents external moisture from being absorbed by the multiple items stored inside. Furthermore, this container allows consumers to store or place the container containing multiple items in damp environments where they will use them, such as showers, bathtubs, or sinks.

[0063] In some cases, the body may be substantially plastic-free and may be made of paper, cardboard, and / or metal foil (e.g., aluminum or steel). Furthermore, the hollow component, cup component, and cam arm may be made of plastic. The relative dimensions and weight of the body, hollow component, cup component, and cam arm can be selected such that the body forms the majority of the container, and the total plastic content of the container can be lower compared to conventional containers made entirely of plastic. The body may be at least partially covered by packaging labels and / or coatings to protect it from moisture during use (e.g., from splashes, wet hands, etc.).

[0064] In some cases, a support member may be provided below the base portion of the cup member to separate the base portion from moisture (e.g., water) when the container is placed on a wet surface.

[0065] The container may also provide an easy-to-use, intuitive dispensing mechanism for dispensing bottom articles from the container. Specifically, relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member in a first direction about the longitudinal axis, from a closed configuration to an open configuration, causes the cam arm to move from an engaged position to a dispensing position. After removing the bottom articles from the container, relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member in a second direction opposite to the first direction, from an open configuration to a closed configuration, causes the cam arm to move from the dispensing position to an engaged position and engage the successive bottom articles among the plurality of articles. Thus, multiple articles can be easily and conveniently dispensed from the container. In some examples, the container may be stored horizontally. In other examples, top articles may be dispensed.

[0066] Therefore, the opening of the container and the dispensing of the bottom product can be achieved by the consumer in a single action. Specifically, the relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member from a closed configuration to an open configuration simultaneously exposes the dispensing opening and dispenses the bottom product, which at least partially passes through the dispensing opening. Furthermore, the consumer can also achieve the closing of the container and the filling of the container in another single action for the future dispensing of subsequent bottom products. Specifically, the relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member from an open configuration to a closed configuration closes the dispensing opening and causes the cam arm to engage subsequent bottom products for future dispensing.

[0067] The container may also include a lid attached to the body at a first end. The lid may be configured to close the first end of the body to define a closed top of the container. The lid prevents water from accumulating on the closed top of the container. In some cases, the lid may be made of paper and / or aluminum. In this case, a rigid or flexible plastic covering may be at least partially provided on the lid to prevent it from getting wet (e.g., to prevent splashing and water from a showerhead that may be located near the container).

[0068] The container may also include a follower slidably received within the body and configured to engage the plurality of articles such that the plurality of articles are at least partially received between the follower and the cam arm relative to the longitudinal axis. In the event of container tipping over, the follower can reduce or prevent misalignment of the plurality of articles. The follower may also provide a desiccant within the container. The desiccant may include an absorbent material (e.g., an absorbent gelling material), a desiccant, etc.

[0069] The hollow member may further include a first connecting portion fixedly connected to the body and a second connecting portion rotatably connected to the cup member. The second connecting portion may define the first opening as an angled cut. The hollow member may also include a protrusion disposed between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. The protrusion may engage with each of the body and the cup member such that the protrusion is disposed between the body and the cup member along the longitudinal axis. Specifically, the protrusion may engage with corresponding axial ends of the body and the cup member such that the cup member does not directly contact or engage with the body. This allows the cup member to rotate freely relative to the body. The cup member may include ridges or other textures, which may be made of the main material of the cup member or an additional material such as a low-hardness material that facilitates gripping and rotation.

[0070] The hollow member may also include a plurality of shaped portions disposed on the outer surface of the first connecting portion. The shaped portions may engage the body to rotatably and / or axially secure the body and the hollow member relative to each other. In some examples, the member may be permanently engaged to the body, such as by adhesive, crimping, and / or riveting. In other examples, the member may be temporarily engaged to the body.

[0071] The hollow member may also include an inclined protrusion disposed at an end of the hollow member. The cup member may also define an inclined slot that movably engages with the inclined protrusion of the hollow member to allow relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member.

[0072] The cup component may also include a portion defining the second opening as an inclined cut, which may be an annular portion, and a connecting portion connecting the circumferential edge of the base portion to this portion. The inclined slot may be defined between the circumferential edge of the base portion, the annular portion, and the connecting portion.

[0073] The cup member may also include a lip disposed at an end remote from the base portion. The hollow member may also include a groove that at least partially receives the lip of the cup member therein, such that the lip is rotatable relative to the groove.

[0074] The hollow member may also include a connecting feature extending from the inner surface of the hollow member. The cam arm may also include a connecting element received at least partially through the connecting feature to pivotally connect the cam arm to the connecting feature.

[0075] The connecting feature may include: a narrow aperture; a shoulder disposed adjacent to the narrow aperture; and a wide aperture disposed adjacent to the shoulder and opposite the narrow aperture. The connecting element of the cam arm may include: a narrow portion at least partially pivotally received within the narrow aperture; and a wide portion at least partially pivotally received within the wide aperture and engaging with the shoulder. The engagement between the wide portion of the connecting element and the shoulder of the connecting feature secures the connecting element to the connecting feature.

[0076] The cam arm may further include: a receiving portion configured to receive a bottom article thereon; and an engaging portion extending from and inclined toward the receiving portion. The engaging portion may be configured to engage with the bottom article and move it toward a dispensing opening. A protrusion may extend from the receiving portion. Specifically, the protrusion and the engaging portion may extend from opposing main surfaces of the receiving portion. Furthermore, as the cam arm moves from the engaging position to the dispensing position, the engaging portion allows the bottom article to reliably move toward the dispensing opening. Specifically, the engaging portion prevents considerable slippage between the bottom article and the cam arm. Thus, when the cam arm moves to the dispensing position, the engaging portion prevents the bottom article from remaining stationary within the container.

[0077] The cam arm may also include a curved portion extending from the engagement portion and away from the receiving portion. In the engagement position, the curved portion engages the inner surface of the hollow member.

[0078] The receiving portion of the cam arm may also define a V-shaped notch spaced apart from the engaging portion. In some cases, the V-shaped notch can serve as a rotation stop for the cam arm by selectively engaging with the connecting element. The V-shaped notch allows the cam arm to rotate freely about the connecting feature without interference. Furthermore, the V-shaped notch can reduce the plastic content of the container (in cases where the cam arm is made of plastic).

[0079] The grooved track extends from a first groove end to a second groove end. In the engaged position, the protrusion of the cam arm engages with the first groove end of the grooved track. In the dispensing position, the protrusion of the cam arm engages with the second groove end of the grooved track. The engagement between the protrusion and the first groove end serves as a first stop corresponding to the engaged position. Similarly, the engagement between the protrusion and the second groove end serves as a second stop corresponding to the dispensing position.

[0080] The base portion may include a first main surface and a second main surface opposite to the first main surface. A groove track may extend from the first main surface. A cam arm may be at least partially disposed on the first main surface and move along the first main surface between an engagement position and a dispensing position. In some cases, the cam arm may move substantially along the plane of the first main surface of the base portion.

[0081] The base portion may further include: a continuous sidewall extending from the first main surface beyond the second main surface; and a bottom wall connected to the continuous sidewall and located away from the first main surface. The continuous sidewall and the bottom wall may define a recessed track therebetween. The continuous sidewall may have a suitable height to facilitate reliable engagement between the protrusion and the recessed track.

[0082] The base portion may further include: a plurality of interconnecting ribs extending from the second main surface; and a rib extending from the second main surface and surrounding the plurality of interconnecting ribs. The rib may connect to at least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs. At least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs may define a plurality of hexagons. At least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs may connect to a continuous sidewall. The ribs and interconnecting ribs may provide additional stiffness to the cup member. Furthermore, the ribs and interconnecting ribs may minimize contact between the base portion and moisture (e.g., condensation) that may be present on the external surface on which the container is placed. In some cases, additional support members may be provided on the ribs to further minimize contact between the base portion and moisture present on the external surface.

[0083] Figure 1A and Figure 1B A front perspective view and a schematic cross-sectional view of a container 100 for stacking a plurality of arranged articles 10 on top of each other, according to a first aspect of the invention, are shown respectively. Furthermore, Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of container 100 is shown.

[0084] Multiple articles 10 may be consumer products in solid form. Specifically, multiple articles 10 may be personal care products in solid form, including but not limited to shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, facial cleansers, and hand sanitizers. For example, multiple articles 10 may be fibrous or porous foam structures that, upon hydration, become liquid shampoos, liquid conditioners, liquid shower gels, liquid facial cleansers, and / or liquid hand sanitizers, as described in U.S. Patent Nos. 2018 / 0333339, 2019 / 0282461, and 2020 / 0405587, which are incorporated herein by reference. In some cases, multiple articles 10 may be unit-dose solid products. Depending on the application requirements, multiple articles 10 may have any suitable shape, such as circular, triangular, rectangular, polygonal, hexagonal, etc. The shape of multiple articles may resemble the cross-section of a dispenser. Multiple articles 10 stacked on top of each other include a bottom article 10A. The bottom article 10A may be the lowest article among multiple articles 10.

[0085] refer to Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2Container 100 includes a body 110. Body 110 has a hollow shape. In some examples, the hollow shape may be tubular and / or may have an annular cross-section. In other examples, the hollow shape may have a cross-section of the following shapes: circular, including elliptical; rectangular, including square; hexagonal; another polygon; convex; concave; teardrop-shaped; flower-shaped; star-shaped; or any other suitable shape. The hollow tubular shape allows body 110 to accommodate some of the articles 10 therein. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2 As shown, the main body 110 may have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0086] The body 110 includes a first end 112 and a second end 114 opposite to the first end 112. In other words, the second end 114 is opposite to the first end 112. The body 110 extends along a longitudinal axis 111. Specifically, the body 110 may extend along the longitudinal axis 111 between the first end 112 and the second end 114. At least the second end 114 is open. In other words, the body 110 is open at its second end 114.

[0087] The first end 112 may be closed. For example, as shown in FIG1, the container 100 may also include a lid 180 coupled to the body 110 at the first end 112. The lid 180 may be configured to close the first end 112 of the body 110 to define a closed top 102 of the container 100. The lid 180 may, for example, prevent water from accumulating on the closed top 102 of the container 100 by having a curved concave shape. In other words, the lid 180 may prevent water from accumulating on the closed top 102 of the container 100. Alternatively, in some examples, the body 110 may include a top portion integral with the body 110 to close the first end 112 and define the closed top 102 of the container 100. In other words, the body 110 may be pre-closed. For example, the body 110 may resemble a cup or can (e.g., an aluminum can) whose top portion closes the first end 112 and defines the closed top 102 of the container 100. The top portion can be configured to prevent water from accumulating on the closed top 102 of the container 100, similar to the cap 180 described above.

[0088] Container 100 also includes a hollow component 120 (in) Figure 2(As shown more clearly in the diagram). The hollow member 120 may be at least partially received within the body 110. In other words, at least a portion of the hollow member 120 may be received within the body 110. The hollow member 120 may be fixedly coupled to the body 110 at a second end 114. The hollow member 120 may be immovable relative to the body 110. Specifically, the hollow member 120 may not be linearly and / or rotationally movable relative to the body 110. Therefore, the hollow member 120 may rotate with the body 110. The hollow member 120 defines a first opening 121 therethrough (in the diagram). Figure 2 As shown in the figure, the first opening extends at an angle around the longitudinal axis 111.

[0089] The container 100 also includes a cup member 140 rotatably coupled to the hollow member 120, such that the cup member 140 is rotatable relative to the hollow member 120 about a longitudinal axis 111. The cup member 140 defines a second opening 141 therethrough. Figure 2 As shown in the figure, the second opening extends at an angle around the longitudinal axis 111.

[0090] The second opening 141 of the cup member 140 may be substantially similar in shape and size to the first opening 121 of the hollow member 120, such that the second opening 141 and the first opening 121 may define a dispensing opening 106 when they are at least partially aligned. In other words, the cup member 140 and / or the hollow member 120 may rotate relative to each other about a longitudinal axis 111 such that the first opening 121 and the second opening 141 may be at least partially aligned with each other and define a dispensing opening 106. The dispensing opening 106 defined by the first opening 121 and the second opening 141 may have a suitable shape and size to allow at least one of the plurality of articles 10 (e.g., the bottom article 10A) to be dispensed through the dispensing opening.

[0091] The cup component 140 includes a base portion 142. The base portion 142 defines a closed bottom end 104 of the container 100. The closed bottom end 104 may be opposite to a closed top end 102 of the container 100. The base portion 142 also defines a grooved track 145 facing a second end 114 of the body 110.

[0092] The container 100 also includes a cam arm 160 received within the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140. The cam arm 160 is movably coupled to the hollow member 120. For example, the cam arm 160 may be pivotally coupled to the hollow member 120. The cam arm 160 includes a protrusion 162 (in... Figure 2As shown in the diagram, the protrusion 162 movably engages with the grooved track 145, causing the cam arm 160 to move relative to the hollow member 120 due to the relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140. Specifically, the protrusion 162, movably engaged with the grooved track 145, causes the cam arm 160 to move relative to the hollow member 120 due to the relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140. In other words, the protrusion 162 can be configured to travel along the grooved track 145, and cause the cam arm 160 to move relative to the hollow member 120 due to the relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140.

[0093] The relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140 can be achieved in any suitable manner. For example, the relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140 can be achieved by rotating the body 110 relative to the cup member 140 (since the hollow member 120 is fixedly connected to the body 110), by rotating the cup member 140 relative to the body 110, or by rotating the body 110 and the cup member 140 in opposite directions.

[0094] like Figure 1B As shown, a body 110, a hollow member 120, and a cup member 140 together receive a plurality of articles 10 therein. As discussed above, some of the plurality of articles 10 may be accommodated in the body 110. Furthermore, at least one of the plurality of articles 10 may be accommodated in the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140. As discussed above, the plurality of articles 10 may include a bottom article 10A. The container 100 may be configured to dispense at least the bottom article 10A through a dispensing opening 106 (shown in FIG. 1). In some cases, the container 100 may be configured to sequentially dispense successive bottom articles from a stack of the plurality of articles 10 through the dispensing opening 106.

[0095] Container 100 may also include a follower 185. The follower 185 may be slidably received within a body 110. Specifically, the follower 185 may slidably engage an inner surface of the body 110. The follower 185 may be configured to engage a plurality of articles 10 such that the plurality of articles 10 may be at least partially received between the follower 185 and a cam arm 160 relative to a longitudinal axis 111. The follower 185 may have a section slidably engaged with the body 110 and a base section disposed at an end of this section. The base section of the follower 185 may engage a top article 10B among the plurality of articles 10. The top article 10B may be the uppermost article among the plurality of articles 10 stacked on top of each other. The follower 185 may be configured to slide along the longitudinal axis 111 to maintain engagement with the plurality of articles 10. Advantageously, in the event of container 100 tipping over, the follower 185 may reduce or prevent misalignment of the plurality of articles 10. In other words, if container 100 tipped over, actuator 185 can keep multiple articles 10 in an aligned stack.

[0096] The body 110 may be configured to provide the container 100 with resistance to pressure and moisture. In other words, the body 110 protects the plurality of articles 10 from compression (e.g., external forces caused by the container 100 during transport or use) and reduces or prevents contact between the plurality of articles 10 stored within the container 100 and with moisture present in the external environment where the container 100 is placed (e.g., a shower room). Therefore, the container 100 reduces or prevents external moisture from being absorbed by the plurality of articles 10 stored within the container 100.

[0097] The body 110 may be made primarily of paper material and may be substantially free of plastic. Specifically, the body 110 may include 0% to 5% plastic by weight. The body 110, made of paper material, may include a barrier material to protect the body 110 from, for example, moisture, grease / oil, oxygen, etc. The barrier material may be a coating (applied before or after paper formation) or an additional structural layer, such as a film or aluminum foil. An example of a barrier material is... 2200R, which can be found in Cincinnati, Ohio. The company purchases the material. However, the barrier material may include any other printed, sprayed, or laminated barrier material.

[0098] In some examples, the paper material of the body 110 may be spirally wound. That is, the paper material may include an inner layer, an outer layer, and one or more inner layers disposed between the inner and outer layers. Furthermore, each of the inner layer, the one or more inner layers, and the outer layer may be wound around a mandrel. Each of the inner layer, the outer layer, and the one or more inner layers may be coated with a barrier material. In one example, the inner layer may be coated with a layer of aluminum foil. Additionally, in one example, the outer layer may be coated with... 2200R. Alternatively, the body 110 may be made of cardboard that can be formed into a generally cylindrical shape and include a barrier material for protection thereto.

[0099] The cap 180 may be made of plastic, for example, by injection molding. Alternatively, the cap 180 may be made of molded pulp, wherein a barrier material is applied to the molded pulp. Alternatively, the cap 180 may be made of metal (e.g., aluminum).

[0100] The follower 185 may be made primarily of paper material. Additionally, the follower 185 may provide a desiccant within the container 100. In other words, the follower 185 can absorb moisture that may enter the container 100 from the external environment.

[0101] Each of the hollow component 120, the cup component 140, and the cam arm 160 may be made of plastic. Alternatively, each of the hollow component 120, the cup component 140, and the cam arm 160 may be made of injection-molded pulp or a combination of injection-molded paper and plastic. In some examples, each of the hollow component 120, the cup component 140, and the cam arm 160 may be made of aluminum.

[0102] In addition, container 100 may be made primarily of paper and / or aluminum. In some examples, container 100 may contain less plastic per dose than current liquid shampoo bottles. In some examples, container 100 may contain less than 60%, less than 55%, or less than 50% plastic.

[0103] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Side perspective view and bottom perspective view of hollow member 120 are shown respectively. Hollow member 120 may include a first connecting portion 122 and a second connecting portion 124. Hollow member 120 may also include a protrusion 123 disposed between the first connecting portion 122 and the second connecting portion 124.

[0104] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3A and Figure 3B The first connecting portion 122 can be fixedly connected to the body 110. Specifically, the first connecting portion 122 can be fixedly connected to the body 110 at its second end 114. The first connecting portion 122 can be at least partially received in the body 110 at the second end 114 to fix the hollow member 120 to the body 110. In some cases, the first connecting portion 122 can be configured to form an interference fit with the body 110 at the second end 114.

[0105] like Figure 3A and Figure 3BAs shown, the hollow member 120 may further include a plurality of shaped portions 125 disposed on the outer surface 126 of the first connecting portion 122. In other words, the first connecting portion 122 may include a plurality of shaped portions 125. In some examples, the plurality of shaped portions 125 may be tapered. Furthermore, the shaped portions 125 may taper gradually from the protrusion 123. The plurality of shaped portions 125 may facilitate the formation of an interference fit between the first connecting portion 122 and the body 110 to securely connect the hollow member 120 to the body 110. Specifically, the shaped portions 125 may engage the body 110 to rotatably and / or axially fix the body 110 and the hollow member 120 relative to each other.

[0106] The second connecting part 124 can connect the first opening 121 (also in Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram) is defined as an angled cut. Furthermore, the second connecting portion 124 may be rotatably connected to the cup member 140. In other words, the cup member 140 may rotate about the second connecting portion 124. Specifically, the hollow member 120 may also include a groove 130. The groove 130 may be provided on the second connecting portion 124 and adjacent to the protrusion 123. The groove 130 may be configured to at least partially receive a portion of the cup member 140 therein, such that the cup member 140 is rotatable relative to the hollow member 120.

[0107] The hollow member 120 may further include an inclined protrusion 127 disposed at an end 128 of the hollow member 120. The end 128 may be located away from the first connecting portion 122. The inclined protrusion 127 may be movably engaged with a portion of the cup member 140 to enable relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140.

[0108] like Figure 3B As shown, the hollow member 120 may further include a connecting feature 132. The connecting feature 132 may extend from the inner surface 129 of the hollow member 120. Specifically, as Figure 3B As shown, the connecting feature 132 may extend from the inner surface 129 and may be accessible to the end 128 of the hollow member 120. The cam arm 160 may be pivotally connected to the hollow member 120 via the connecting feature 132.

[0109] The coupling feature 132 may include: a narrow aperture 134; a shoulder 135 disposed adjacent to the narrow aperture 134; and a wide aperture 136 disposed adjacent to the shoulder 135 and opposite to the narrow aperture 134. The narrow aperture 134 may have a narrow width 134W, while the wide aperture 136 may have a wide width 136W. In some examples, the wide width 136W may be about 1.1 to about 3 times the narrow width 134W. In some examples, the wide width 136W may be about 2 times the narrow width 134W. The narrow aperture 134, the shoulder 135, and the wide aperture 136 may be configured to receive a portion of a cam arm 160 to pivotally couple the cam arm 160 to the coupling feature 132.

[0110] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Top and bottom perspective views of the cup member 140 are shown, respectively. As discussed above, the cup member 140 includes a base portion 142. Furthermore, the base portion 142 defines a recessed track 145. The base portion 142 may also include a circumferential edge 142E.

[0111] The base portion 142 may further include a first main surface 144 and a second main surface 146 opposite to the first main surface 144. A groove track 145 may extend from the first main surface 144. In addition, the groove track 145 may extend from a first groove end 145A to a second groove end 145B.

[0112] refer to Figures 3A to 4B The cup member 140 may include a lip 143 disposed at an end 156 remote from the base portion 142. A groove 130 (in...) Figure 3A and Figure 3B (As shown in the figure) The lip 143 of the cup member 140 can be received at least partially in the recess 130, such that the lip 143 can rotate relative to the recess 130. As a result, the cup member 140 can rotate about the hollow member 120.

[0113] The base portion 142 may further include continuous sidewalls 147 and bottom wall 148. The continuous sidewall 147 may extend from the first main surface 144 beyond the second main surface 146. The bottom wall 148 may be connected to the continuous sidewall 147 and may be located away from the first main surface 144. The continuous sidewall 147 and bottom wall 148 may define a recessed track 145 therebetween. The continuous sidewall 147 may have a continuous curved shape and may define a first recessed end 145A and a second recessed end 145B of the recessed track 145.

[0114] like Figure 4BAs shown, the base portion 142 may further include ribs 149 extending from the second main surface 146. The base portion 142 may also include a plurality of interconnecting ribs 150 extending from the second main surface 146. Ribs 149 may surround the plurality of interconnecting ribs 150. Ribs 149 may connect to at least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs 150. At least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs 150 may connect to a continuous sidewall 147. Furthermore, at least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs 150 may define a plurality of hexagons 153. Alternatively, at least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs 150 may define a plurality of other shapes, including but not limited to circles, triangles, rectangles, and any suitable polygons.

[0115] In addition, such as Figure 4B As shown, the cup member 140 may further include a portion 152, which may be an annular portion, and a connecting portion 154. The portion 152 may define the second opening 141 as an angled cut. In addition, the connecting portion 154 may connect the circumferential edge 142E of the base portion 142 to the portion 152.

[0116] The cup member 140 may also define an inclined protrusion 127 that can be coupled with the hollow member 120 (in Figure 3A and Figure 3B (As shown in the figure) a movably engaged inclined slot 151 to allow relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140. In some examples, the inclined slot 151 may be defined between the circumferential edge 142E of the base portion 142, portion 152 and connecting portion 154.

[0117] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The top and bottom perspective views of the cam arm 160 are shown respectively. Figure 5C It shows along Figure 5A The cross-sectional view of the cam arm 160 cut by line 2-2.

[0118] refer to Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figures 3A to 5C The cam arm 160 may include a receiving portion 163 and an engaging portion 164. The receiving portion 163 may include a first main surface 165 and a second main surface 166 opposite to the first main surface 165. The receiving portion 163 may be configured to receive the bottom article 10A thereon. Figure 1B (As shown in the image). Specifically, as... Figure 5AAs shown, the receiving portion 163 can be configured to receive the bottom article 10A on its first main surface 165. The receiving portion 163 of the cam arm 160 may also define a V-shaped notch 167 spaced apart from the engaging portion 164. In some cases, the V-shaped notch 167 may serve as a rotation stop for the cam arm 160. The V-shaped notch 167 allows the cam arm 160 to rotate around the connecting feature 132 (in) without interference. Figure 3B (As shown in the diagram) it can rotate freely. In addition, the V-shaped notch 167 can reduce the plastic content of the container 100 (in the case that the cam arm 160 is made of plastic).

[0119] As discussed above, the cam arm 160 includes a protrusion 162. The protrusion 162 extends from the receiving portion 163. Specifically, the protrusion 162 extends from the second main surface 166 of the receiving portion 163. The protrusion 162 may be designed (e.g., the protrusion 162 may have a suitable width) such that the protrusion 162 engages the continuous sidewall 147 of the recessed track 145 (in... Figure 4A (As shown in the diagram), to force the protrusion to travel along the groove track 145 as it rotates relative to the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140. Figure 5B As shown, the protrusion 162 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. However, based on the cross-sectional shape and dimensions of the groove track 145, the protrusion 162 may have any suitable shape and size.

[0120] The engaging portion 164 may extend from the receiving portion 163. Specifically, the engaging portion 164 may extend from the first main surface 165 of the receiving portion 163. Furthermore, the engaging portion 164 may be inclined toward the receiving portion 163. Figure 5C As shown, the engagement portion 164 may define an angle θ relative to the first main surface 165 of the receiving portion 163. In some examples, the angle θ may be between about 60 degrees and about 120 degrees. In some examples, the engagement portion 164 may be substantially perpendicular to the receiving portion 163, that is, the angle θ may be about 90 degrees.

[0121] The joining portion 164 can be configured to engage with the bottom article 10A (in Figure 1B (as shown in the diagram) engage and move it toward the dispensing opening 106 (in Figure 1A (As shown in the diagram). For example, the engagement portion 164 may be configured to move only the bottom article 10A toward the dispensing opening 106. As the engagement portion 164 moves the bottom article 10A, subsequent articles 10 of a plurality of articles 10 disposed above the bottom article 10A may contact the top of the engagement portion 164. In some use cases, the engagement portion 164 may be configured to move two, three, four, or five articles of a plurality of articles 10 toward the dispensing opening 106.

[0122] refer to Figures 3A to 5C The cam arm 160 may also include a curved portion 168 extending from the engagement portion 164 and away from the receiving portion 163. The curved portion 168 may engage the inner surface 129 of the hollow member 120 (in... Figure 3B (as shown in the image).

[0123] The cam arm 160 may also include a connecting element 170. The connecting element 170 may be at least partially connected via the connecting feature 132 (in... Figure 3B (As shown in the diagram) The cam arm 160 is received to pivotally connect the cam arm 160 to the coupling feature 132. In other words, the cam arm 160 is pivotable about the coupling feature 132 when the coupling element 170 is received at least partially through the coupling feature 132. Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the connecting element 170 of the cam arm 160 may include a narrow portion 172 and a wide portion 174. The connecting element 170 will be referred to below. Figure 6 Further description.

[0124] Figure 6 A cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of container 100 taken along line 1-1 in Figure 1 is shown.

[0125] As discussed above, the connecting element 170 may be received at least partially through the connecting feature 132 of the hollow member 120 to pivotally connect the cam arm 160 to the connecting feature 132. Specifically, as Figure 6 As shown, the narrow portion 172 is at least partially pivotally received within the narrow aperture 134. The wide portion 174 is at least partially pivotally received within the wide aperture 136. Furthermore, the wide portion 174 can engage with the shoulder 135. In other words, the cam arm 160 is pivotally connected to the coupling feature 132 via the pivotal connection of the narrow portion 172 to the narrow aperture 134 and the wide portion 174 to the wide aperture 136. Furthermore, the cam arm 160 is at least partially disposed on the first main surface 144 and is movable along the first main surface 144. The engagement of the wide portion 174 of the coupling element 170 with the shoulder 135 of the coupling feature 132 ensures that the cam arm 160 is disposed on the base portion 142 and movable along the first main surface 144 of the base portion.

[0126] Furthermore, the protrusion 123 can engage with each of the body 110 and the cup member 140, such that the protrusion 123 can be disposed between the body 110 and the cup member 140 along the longitudinal axis 111.

[0127] The first connecting portion 122 can be fixedly connected to the body 110. Specifically, the forming portion 125 can engage the body 110 to fix the body 110 and the hollow member 120 relative to each other in a rotatable and / or axial manner.

[0128] The second connecting portion 124 can be rotatably connected to the cup member 140. Specifically, the groove 130 can at least partially receive the lip 143 of the cup member 140, such that the lip 143 is rotatable relative to the groove 130. The lip 143 of the cup member 140 can engage the groove 130 of the hollow member 120, such that the cup member 140 is rotatable relative to the hollow member 120. Furthermore, the inclined slot 151 can be movably engaged with the inclined protrusion 127 of the hollow member 120 to achieve relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140.

[0129] Figures 7A to 9B The illustration shows a container 100 with hollow member 120 and cup member 140 in different configurations. For illustrative purposes, Figures 7A to 9B Some components of the container 100, including the body 110, are not shown. Furthermore, some of the articles 10 are... Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figures 8A to 9B The middle part is indicated by a dashed line. Figure 7C Multiple products 10 are not shown in the figure.

[0130] Specifically, Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 7C Top view, top perspective view, and front perspective view of a container 100 with hollow member 120 and cup member 140 in a closed configuration 190 are shown, respectively. Furthermore, Figure 8A and Figure 8B A top view and a top perspective view of a container 100 with the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140 in an intermediate configuration 191 are shown, respectively. Furthermore, Figure 9A and Figure 9B A top view and a top perspective view of the container 100 in its open configuration 192 are shown, respectively, of the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140. For illustrative purposes, the grooved track 145 of the cup member 140 and the protrusion 162 of the cam arm 160 are shown... Figure 7A , Figure 8A and Figure 9A The middle part is indicated by a dashed line.

[0131] For descriptive purposes, in Figures 7A to 9BIn this configuration, the cup member 140 is rotatable relative to the hollow member 120. Therefore, the direction of rotation described herein corresponds to the rotation of the cup member 140 relative to the hollow member 120. Alternatively, the hollow member 120 is rotatable relative to the cup member 140. The hollow member 120 can be rotated relative to the cup member 140 by rotating the body 110 (shown in FIG. 1) relative to the cup member 140. The cup member 140 and the hollow member 120 can also rotate relative to each other. It can be noted that the relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140 to achieve the open configuration 192 is opposite to the relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140 to achieve the closed configuration 190.

[0132] Hollow member 120 and cup member 140 can be in open configuration 192 (in Figure 9A and Figure 9B (shown in) and closed configuration 190 (in) Figures 7A to 7C (as shown in the diagram) rotate relative to each other. Therefore, due to the relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140, the cam arm 160 is in the engagement position 195 corresponding to the closed configuration 190 (in...). Figure 7A (shown in) and the allocation position 197 corresponding to the open configuration 192 (in) Figure 9A and Figure 9B (as shown in the image) move between.

[0133] refer to Figures 7A to 7C In the closed configuration 190, the first opening 121 and the second opening 141 are not aligned with each other (in Figure 7C (As shown in Figure 1) to close the distribution opening 106. In addition, in the closed configuration 190, the cam arm 160 can be in the engaged position 195.

[0134] Specifically, in the closed configuration 190, the first opening 121 and the second opening 141 may be completely misaligned with each other, with zero overlap. For example, in the closed configuration 190, the first opening 121 and the second opening 141 may be offset from each other at an angle of approximately 180 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 111 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0135] like Figure 7B As shown, in the engagement position 195, the cam arm 160 can be configured to engage the bottom article 10A of the plurality of articles 10. Furthermore, in the engagement position 195, the bent portion 168 can engage the inner surface 129 of the hollow member 120. Additionally, in the engagement position 195, the protrusion 162 of the cam arm 160 can engage with the first groove end 145A of the groove track 145 (in... Figure 7A (As shown in the diagram) engagement. The bottom part 10A is received on the receiving portion 163 of the cam arm 160.

[0136] The cup member 140 is rotatable relative to the hollow member 120 about the longitudinal axis 111 along a first direction D1 (also shown in Figure 1). When the cup member 140 rotates relative to the hollow member 120 along the first direction D1, the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140 can achieve an intermediate configuration 191 (in... Figure 8A and Figure 8B (as shown in the image).

[0137] refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the intermediate configuration 191, the first opening 121 and the second opening 141 are at least partially aligned. Also... Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, in intermediate configuration 191, the bent portion 168 of the cam arm 160 can engage the inner surface 129 of the hollow member 120. In some other cases, in intermediate configuration 191, the bent portion 168 of the cam arm 160 may not engage the inner surface 129 of the hollow member 120. In intermediate configuration 191, the protrusion 162 of the cam arm 160 can engage the grooved track 145 between the first groove end 145A and the second groove end 145B.

[0138] Viewed from the intermediate configuration 191, the cup member 140 can rotate relative to the hollow member 120 along a second direction D2 (also shown in Figure 1) opposite to the first direction D1, such that the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140 achieve the following... Figures 7A to 7C The closed configuration 190 shown and described above.

[0139] Viewed from the intermediate configuration 191, the cup member 140 can also rotate relative to the hollow member 120 along the first direction D1. When the cup member 140 further rotates relative to the hollow member 120 along the first direction D1, the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140 can achieve a closed configuration 192 (in... Figure 9A and Figure 9B (as shown in the image).

[0140] Although the bottom article 10A and the article 10 located on top of the bottom article 10A are in Figure 8A and Figure 8B The bottom article 10A is shown as substantially aligned, but it may extend outward relative to the top article 10 based on the intermediate configuration 191.

[0141] refer to Figure 9A and Figure 9BIn the open configuration 192, the first opening 121 and the second opening 141 are at least partially aligned with each other to define the dispensing opening 106. In the open configuration 192, the degree of alignment between the first opening 121 and the second opening 141 can be at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95%. In some cases, in the open configuration 192, the first opening 121 and the second opening 141 can be fully aligned with each other (i.e., 100% aligned). Furthermore, in the open configuration 192, the cam arm 160 can be in the dispensing position 197.

[0142] The cam arm 160 may also be configured to move the bottom article 10A due to the relative rotation between the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140, such that in the dispensing position 197 of the cam arm 160, the bottom article 10A extends at least partially through the dispensing opening 106 and is removable from the container 100. That is, the cam arm 160 moves the bottom article 10A at least partially through the dispensing opening 106, such that the bottom article 10A is removable from the container 100. Specifically, in the dispensing position 197 of the cam arm 160, the bottom article 10A may extend at least partially through the dispensing opening 106 to facilitate manual removal of the bottom article 10A from the container 100.

[0143] Therefore, due to the movement of the cam arm 160 from the engagement position 195 to the dispensing position 197, in the dispensing position 197, the bottom article 10A can extend outward relative to the top article 10. During the movement of the cam arm 160 from the engagement position 195 to the dispensing position 197, the engagement portion 164 of the cam arm 160 can engage the bottom article 10A and push the bottom article 10A toward the dispensing opening 106. Furthermore, in the dispensing position 197, the protrusion 162 of the cam arm 160 can engage with the second groove end 145B of the groove track 145.

[0144] Relative rotation of the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140 from a closed configuration 190 to an open configuration 193 about the longitudinal axis 111 along a first direction D1 causes the cam arm 160 to move from an engaging position 195 to a dispensing position 197. After the bottom product 10A is removed from the container 100, relative rotation of the hollow member 120 and the cup member 140 from an open configuration 192 to a closed configuration 190 along a second direction D2 opposite to the first direction D1 causes the cam arm 160 to move from the dispensing position 197 to the engaging position 195 and engage the successive bottom products 10 of the plurality of products 10 (i.e., products 10 located on top of the bottom products 10A). Thus, after the bottom product 10A is removed from the container 100, the successive bottom products 10 can become the bottom products 10A. The successive bottom products 10 can be received on the receiving portion 163 of the cam arm 160 and can be engaged with the engaging portion 164 of the cam arm 160. In this way, container 100 allows sequential dispensing of successive bottom products 10A from a stack of multiple products 10. Therefore, container 100 provides an easy-to-use dispensing mechanism for dispensing bottom products 10A from container 100.

[0145] Figure 10A and Figure 10B The invention, according to a second aspect, illustrates a plurality of arranged articles 10 (in... Figure 12A and Figure 12B The front and bottom perspective views of container 200 are shown in the image. Figure 11 An exploded perspective view of container 200 is shown.

[0146] refer to Figure 10A , Figure 10B and Figure 11 The container 200 includes a body 210 having a hollow tubular shape. The hollow tubular shape allows the body 210 to accommodate multiple articles 10 therein. Figure 12A and Figure 12B (as shown in the image) at least some of the products.

[0147] The body 210 includes a first open end 212 and a second open end 214 opposite to the first open end 212. In other words, the second open end 214 may be opposite to the first open end 212. The body 210 extends along a longitudinal axis 211. Specifically, the body 210 may extend along the longitudinal axis 211 between the first open end 212 and the second open end 214.

[0148] The container 200 also includes a top member 220. The top member 220 may be at least partially received within the body 210. In other words, at least a portion of the top member 220 may be received within the body 210. The top member 220 may be fixedly coupled to the body 210 at a first open end 212. Furthermore, the top member 220 defines a top opening 221 through which it communicates with the first open end 212.

[0149] The top opening 221 is configured to open or close selectively. For example, the container 200 may also include a lid 230 to selectively open or close the top opening 221. Figure 10A As shown, the cover 230 can be detached or removed from the body 210 to selectively open the first opening end 212 and the top opening 221 of the top member 220. Furthermore, as... Figure 10B As shown, the lid 230 is removably attached to the body 210 and is configured to selectively close the first opening end 212 and the top opening 221 of the top member 220. The lid 230 may define a closed top end 202 of the container 200.

[0150] The top member 220 may include a portion 222, which may be annular, fixedly coupled to a first open end 212 of the body 210. The portion 222 may define a top opening 221 aligned with the first open end 212. The top member 220 may also include an engagement portion 224 coupled to the portion 222. In some examples, the engagement portion 224 may be integral with the portion 222. The engagement portion 224 may extend at least partially into the top opening 221. Specifically, the engagement portion 224 may extend from the inner surface 223 of the portion 222 and at least partially into the top opening 221.

[0151] The mating portion 224 may include an inclined planar surface 225 inclined toward the longitudinal axis 211. The inclined planar surface 225 may be configured to engage with the top article 10B (in Figure 12A and Figure 12B (As shown in the diagram) it joins and separates the top article 10B from the remaining portions of the plurality of articles 10. The inclined planar surface 225 can be angled α relative to the longitudinal axis 211 at an angle α (in Figure 12A and Figure 12B (As shown in the figure). In some examples, the angle α can be between about 10 degrees and about 60 degrees.

[0152] The container 200 also includes a thruster 240 slidably received within the body 210. The thruster 240 can slidably engage the inner surface of the body 210. The thruster 240 is movable along a longitudinal axis 211. The thruster 240 defines a movable closed bottom end 204 of the container 200. Figure 10B(As shown in the diagram). The body 210 may include any suitable features to retain the thruster 240 therein. For example, the body 210 may include one or more stop features 216 extending into the body 210 and approaching the second opening end 214 (in the diagram). Figure 12A and Figure 12B (As shown in the figure). One or more stop features 216 may include a continuous wall, such as an annular wall, extending into the body 210. The thruster 240 may engage one or more stop features 216 such that the thruster 240 can be retained within the body 210.

[0153] The body 210 can be configured to provide pressure resistance and moisture protection to the container 200. In other words, the body 210 can protect multiple articles 10 (in... Figure 12A and Figure 12B The container 200 is free from compression (e.g., external forces caused by the container 200 during transport or its use) and can reduce or prevent contact between the multiple articles 10 stored within the container 200 and moisture present in the external environment where the container 200 is placed (e.g., a shower room). Therefore, the container 200 can reduce or prevent external moisture from being absorbed by the multiple articles 10 stored within the container 200.

[0154] The body 210 may be made primarily of paper material and may be substantially plastic-free. Specifically, the body 210 may include 0% to 5% plastic by weight. The body 210, made of paper material, may include a barrier material to protect the body 210 from, for example, moisture, grease / oil, oxygen, etc. Furthermore, the cap 230 may be made of molded pulp, wherein the barrier material is applied to the molded pulp. Additionally, the top member 220 may be made of plastic. Alternatively, the top member 220 may be made of injection-molded pulp or a combination of injection-molded paper and plastic. Similarly, the propeller 240 may be made of plastic, injection-molded pulp, or a combination of injection-molded paper and plastic. Furthermore, the container 200 may be made substantially of paper and / or aluminum. In some examples, the container 200 may contain less plastic per dose than current liquid shampoo bottles. In some examples, the container 200 may contain less than 60%, less than 55%, or less than 50% plastic.

[0155] Figure 12A and Figure 12B It shows along Figure 10A A cross-sectional view of container 200 taken from line 3-3. Lid 230 (in...) Figure 11 (As shown in the diagram) can be removed from the main body 210, and Figure 12A and Figure 12B Not shown in the image. Thruster 240 is in... Figure 12A The first position is 242, while the thruster 240 is in the first position. Figure 12B It is in the second position, 244.

[0156] like Figure 12A As shown, a plurality of articles 10 may be received within the body 210 and adjacent to the thruster 240. In this example, the plurality of articles 10 are stacked on top of the thruster 240. At a first position 242 of the thruster 240, the plurality of articles 10 may be positioned along the longitudinal axis 211 between the top opening 221 of the top member 220 and the thruster 240. Furthermore, the plurality of articles 10 includes a top article 10B.

[0157] As discussed above, thruster 240 in Figure 12A The first position 242 may correspond to a storage configuration of the container 200. In the storage configuration of the container 200, the propeller 240 may be positioned close to the second open end 214 of the body 210. For example, the propeller 240 may engage with and rest on one or more stop features 216 of the body 210 in the first position 242.

[0158] When a force defined by the thruster 240 along direction D3 is applied to the movable closed bottom end 204 of the container 200, the thruster 240 can move to the second position 244 (in Figure 12B (As shown in the diagram). Direction D3 can be along the longitudinal axis 211 from the second opening end 214 of the body 210 toward the first opening end 212 and the top opening 221 of the top member 220. In some examples, the thruster 240 can be biased toward a first position 242 of the thruster 240. A biasing member such as a spring can bias the thruster 240 toward the first position 242.

[0159] like Figure 12B As shown, when a force is applied to the pusher 240 along direction D3, the pusher 240 can move to a second position 244. The second position 244 can be a position where at least one of the plurality of articles 10 (e.g., the top article 10B) can be removed from the top opening 221. Specifically, the pusher 240 can move along the longitudinal axis 211 toward the top opening 221 such that the top article 10B of the plurality of articles 10 can be removed from the top opening 221. When the pusher 240 is likely in the second position 244, the top article 10B can engage with the inclined planar surface 225 of the engagement portion 224. The inclined planar surface 225 engages with the top article 10B and separates the top article 10B from the remainder of the plurality of articles 10. The top article 10B can be tilted outward from the top opening 221 while engaged with the inclined planar surface 225 and can be removed from the container 200. Successive articles 10 can be removed from the stack similarly. In this way, container 200 allows sequential distribution of successive top products 10B from a stack of multiple products 10. Therefore, container 200 provides an easy-to-use distribution mechanism for distributing top products 10B from container 200.

[0160] Figure 13A , Figure 13B and Figure 13C The invention, according to a third aspect, illustrates a plurality of arranged articles 10 (in... Figure 16A and Figure 16B The container 300 shown in the image has a front perspective view, a bottom perspective view, and another front perspective view. Furthermore, Figure 14 An exploded perspective view of container 300 is shown.

[0161] refer to Figures 13A to 13C and Figure 14 The container 300 includes a body 310 having a hollow tubular shape. The hollow tubular shape allows the body 310 to accommodate multiple articles 10 therein. Figure 16A and Figure 16B (as shown in the image) at least some of the products.

[0162] The body 310 includes a first open end 312 and a second open end 314 opposite to the first open end 312. In other words, the second open end 314 may be opposite to the first open end 312. The body 310 extends along a longitudinal axis 311. Specifically, the body 310 may extend along the longitudinal axis 311 between the first open end 312 and the second open end 314.

[0163] Container 300 also includes a top member 320 (in Figure 14 (As shown more clearly in the diagram). The top member 320 may be at least partially received within the body 310. In other words, at least a portion of the top member 320 may be received within the body 310. The top member 320 may be fixedly coupled to the body 310 at a first opening end 312. Furthermore, the top member 320 defines a top opening 321 through which it communicates with the first opening end 312.

[0164] The container 300 may also include a movable member 330 rotatably coupled to the top member 320, such that the movable member 330 is rotatable relative to the top member 320 about a longitudinal axis 311. The movable member 330 may define a closed top end 302 of the container 300.

[0165] The movable member 330 may also define a movable opening 331 through which it passes. The movable opening 331 may be selectively aligned or misaligned with the top opening 321. The movable member 330 may rotate about the longitudinal axis 311 in direction D4 to align or misalign the movable opening 331 with the top opening 321 (e.g., to misalign the movable opening 331 and the top opening 321). The movable member 330 may also rotate about the longitudinal axis 311 in the opposite direction to D4 to align or misalign the movable opening 331 with the top opening 321 (e.g., to align the movable opening 331 and the top opening 321).

[0166] like Figure 13A and Figure 13B As shown, the movable opening 331 of the movable member 330 can be aligned with the top opening 321 of the top member 320. The movable opening 331 can be selectively and at least partially aligned with the top opening 321 of the top member 320 to allow removal of the top article 10B from the container 300. Figure 16A and Figure 16B (As shown in the image). Furthermore, as... Figure 13C As shown, when the movable opening 331 is not aligned with the top opening 321, the movable member 330 can close the top opening 321 (in...). Figure 13C (shown by dashed lines in the middle).

[0167] The container 300 also includes a thruster 340 slidably received within the body 310 and movable along the longitudinal axis 311. The thruster 340 can slidably engage the inner surface of the body 310. The thruster 340 defines a movable closed bottom end 304 of the container 300 (in... Figure 13B (As shown in the diagram). The body 310 may include any suitable features to retain the thruster 340 therein. For example, the body 310 may include one or more stop features 316 extending into the body 310 and approaching the second opening end 314 (in the diagram). Figure 16A and Figure 16B (As shown in the figure). One or more stop features 316 may include a continuous wall extending into the body 310. The pusher 340 may engage one or more stop features 316 such that the pusher 340 can be retained within the body 310.

[0168] The body 310 can be configured to provide pressure resistance and moisture protection to the container 300. In other words, the body 310 can protect multiple articles 10 (in... Figure 16A and Figure 16BThe container 300 is free from compression (e.g., external forces caused by the container during transport or its use) and can reduce or prevent contact between the multiple articles 10 stored in the container 300 and moisture present in the external environment where the container 300 is placed (e.g., a shower room). Therefore, the container 300 can reduce or prevent external moisture from being absorbed by the multiple articles 10 stored in the container 300.

[0169] The body 310 may be made primarily of paper material and may be substantially free of plastic. Specifically, the body 310 may include 0% to 5% plastic by weight. The body 310, made of paper material, may include a barrier material to protect the body 310 from, for example, moisture, grease / oil, oxygen, etc. Furthermore, the movable member 330 may be made of molded pulp, wherein the barrier material is applied to the molded pulp. Additionally, the top member 320 may be made of plastic. Alternatively, the top member 320 may be made of injection-molded pulp or a combination of injection-molded paper and plastic. Similarly, the propeller 340 may be made of plastic, injection-molded pulp, or a combination of injection-molded paper and plastic. Furthermore, the container 300 may be made substantially of paper and / or aluminum. In some examples, the container 300 may contain less plastic per dose than current liquid shampoo bottles. In some examples, the container 300 may contain less than 60%, less than 55%, or less than 50% plastic.

[0170] Figure 15A A front view of a portion of container 300 is shown. For illustrative purposes, Figure 15A Some components of container 300 are not shown in the diagram. Figure 15B It shows along Figure 15A The cross-sectional view of container 300 taken from line 5-5.

[0171] refer to Figure 15A and Figure 15B The top opening 321 may include two symmetrical portions 351A and 351B about a central axis 350. Each symmetrical portion 351A and 351B may extend from the central axis 350 to a recessed end 352. Each symmetrical portion 351A and 351B may have a minimum width W1 at the central axis 350 and a maximum width W2 defined by the recessed end 352. In some examples, the maximum width W2 may be twice the minimum width W1.

[0172] Similarly, the movable opening 331 may include two symmetrical portions 354A, 354B about a central axis 353. Each symmetrical portion 354A, 354B may extend from the central axis 353 to a recessed end 355. Each symmetrical portion 354A, 354B may have a minimum width W3 at the central axis 353 and a maximum width W4 defined by the recessed end 355. In some examples, the maximum width W4 may be twice the minimum width W3.

[0173] Therefore, each of the top opening 321 and the movable opening 331 may include two corresponding symmetrical portions about their respective central axes 350, 353 (i.e., symmetrical portions 351A, 351B of the top opening 321 and symmetrical portions 354A, 354B of the movable opening 331). Furthermore, each of the top opening 321 and the movable opening 331 may extend at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis 311. In some examples, each of the top opening 321 and the movable opening 331 may be oriented at a total angle β of at least 150 degrees about the longitudinal axis 311. In some examples, the total angle β may be between approximately 150 degrees and approximately 180 degrees.

[0174] Top opening 321 and movable opening 331 in Figure 15A and Figure 15B The top opening 321 and the movable opening 331 are shown aligned with each other, and therefore their corresponding central axes 350 and 353 are also aligned with each other. Furthermore, the top opening 321 and the movable opening 331 may have substantially similar shapes. In some examples, the minimum width W1 of the top opening 321 may be equal to the minimum width W3 of the movable opening 331. Furthermore, in some examples, the maximum width W2 of the top opening 321 may be equal to the maximum width W4 of the movable opening 331.

[0175] Figure 16A and Figure 16B It shows along Figure 13A The cross-sectional view of container 300 taken by line 4-4. The top opening 321 and the movable opening 331 are shown in the figure. Figure 16A and Figure 16B Center-aligned. Thruster 340 in Figure 16A The first position is 342, while the thruster 340 is in the first position. Figure 16B It is in the second position, 344.

[0176] like Figure 16A As shown, multiple articles 10 can be received within the body 310 and stacked on top of the thruster 340. The multiple articles 10 can be positioned between the movable member 330 and the thruster 340 along the longitudinal axis 311. Furthermore, the multiple articles 10 include a top article 10B.

[0177] As discussed above, thruster 340 in Figure 16A The first position 342 corresponds to a storage configuration of the container 300. In the storage configuration of the container 300, the propeller 340 can be positioned close to the second open end 314 of the body 310. For example, the propeller 340 can engage with and rest on one or more stop features 316 of the body 310 in the first position 342.

[0178] When a force defined by the thruster 340 along direction D5 is applied to the movable closed bottom end 304 of the container 300, the thruster 340 can move to the second position 344 (in Figure 16B (As shown in the diagram). Direction D5 can be along the longitudinal axis 311 from the second opening end 314 of the body 310 toward the first opening end 312. In some examples, the thruster 340 can be biased toward a first position 342 of the thruster 340. A biasing member such as a spring can bias the thruster 340 toward the first position 342.

[0179] like Figure 16B As shown, when a force is applied to the pusher 340 along direction D5, the pusher 340 can move to a second position 344. The second position 344 can be a position where at least one of the plurality of articles 10 can be removed from the top opening 321. Specifically, the pusher 340 can move along the longitudinal axis 311 toward the top opening 321 such that the top article 10B of the plurality of articles 10 can be removed from the top opening 321. In addition, the top article 10B of the plurality of articles 10 can be removed from a movable opening 331 aligned with the top opening 321.

[0180] The top article 10B can be manually removed by moving the pusher 340 to the second position 344 and then removing the top article 10B through each of the top opening 321 and the movable opening 331. The corresponding recesses 352, 355 of the top opening 321 and the movable opening 331, and their corresponding maximum widths W2, W4 (in...) Figure 15A (As shown in the diagram) This facilitates holding the top product 10B for manual removal via each of the top opening 321 and the movable opening 331. Successive products 10 can be similarly removed from the stack. In this way, the container 300 allows for the sequential dispensing of successive top products 10B from the stack of products 10. Therefore, the container 300 provides an easy-to-use dispensing mechanism for dispensing top products 10B from the container 300.

[0181] Figure 17A and Figure 17B This illustrates a plurality of articles 10 (in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention) for stacking on top of each other. Figure 20 The front perspective views of different configurations of container 400 are shown in the image. Furthermore, Figure 18 An exploded perspective view of container 400 is shown.

[0182] refer to Figure 17A , Figure 17B and Figure 18 The container 400 includes a body 410 having a hollow tubular shape. The hollow tubular shape allows the body 410 to accommodate multiple articles 10 therein. Figure 20 (as shown in the image) at least some of the products.

[0183] The body 410 includes a first closed end 412 and a second open end 414 opposite to the first closed end 412. In other words, the second open end 414 may be opposite to the first closed end 412. The body 410 extends along a longitudinal axis 411. Specifically, the body 410 may extend along the longitudinal axis 411 between the first closed end 412 and the second open end 414. The first closed end 412 may define a closed top 402 of the container 400.

[0184] Container 400 also includes a bottom member 420 (in Figure 18 (As shown more clearly in the diagram). The bottom member 420 may be at least partially received within the body 410. In other words, at least a portion of the bottom member 420 may be received within the body 410. The bottom member 420 may be fixedly coupled to the body 410 at a second opening end 414. Furthermore, the bottom member 420 may define a bottom opening 421 through which it communicates with the second opening end 414. The bottom opening 421 may extend at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis 411.

[0185] Container 400 also includes a movable member 430 movably coupled to the bottom member 420, such that the movable member 430 is in a closed position 432 relative to the bottom member 420. Figure 17B (shown in) and open position 434 (in) Figure 17A (as shown in the diagram) can move between. The movable member 430 defines the closed bottom end 404 of the container 400.

[0186] The movable member 430 can rotate about the longitudinal axis 411 in direction D6 to move the movable member 430 between a closed position 432 and an open position 434 (e.g., from the open position 434 to the closed position 432). The movable member 430 can also rotate about the longitudinal axis 411 in the opposite direction to D6 to move the movable member 430 between a closed position 432 and an open position 434 (e.g., from the closed position 432 to the open position 434).

[0187] In the closed position 432, the movable opening 431 can be closed. Specifically, in the closed position 432, the movable opening 431 may not be aligned with the bottom opening 421. In the open position 434, the movable opening 431 may be at least partially exposed to allow removal of the bottom article 10A (in) from the plurality of articles 10 of the container 400. Figure 20 (as shown in the diagram). Specifically, in the open position 434, the movable opening 431 can be at least partially aligned with the bottom opening 421.

[0188] The body 410 can be configured to provide pressure resistance and moisture protection to the container 400. In other words, the body 410 can protect multiple articles 10 (in... Figure 20 The container 400 is free from compression (e.g., external forces caused by the container during transport or its use) and can reduce or prevent contact between the multiple articles 10 and moisture present in the external environment (e.g., a shower room) where the container 400 is placed. Therefore, the container 400 can reduce or prevent external moisture from being absorbed by the multiple articles 10 stored within the container 400.

[0189] The body 410 may be made primarily of paper material and may be substantially plastic-free. Specifically, the body 410 may include 0% to 5% plastic by weight. The body 410, made of paper material, may include a barrier material to protect the body 410 from, for example, moisture, grease / oil, oxygen, etc. Furthermore, the movable member 430 may be made of molded pulp, wherein the barrier material is applied to the molded pulp. Additionally, the bottom member 420 may be made of plastic. Alternatively, the bottom member 420 may be made of injection-molded pulp or a combination of injection-molded paper and plastic. Furthermore, the container 400 may be made substantially of paper and / or aluminum. In some examples, the container 400 may contain less plastic per dose than current liquid shampoo bottles. In some examples, the container 400 may contain less than 60%, less than 55%, or less than 50% plastic.

[0190] Figure 19A A front view of a portion of container 400 is shown. For illustrative purposes, Figure 19A Some components of container 400 are not shown in the diagram. Figure 19B It shows along Figure 19A The cross-sectional view of container 400 taken from line 7-7.

[0191] refer to Figure 19A and Figure 19B The bottom opening 421 may include two symmetrical portions 451A, 451B about a central axis 450. Each symmetrical portion 451A, 451B may extend from the central axis 450 to a recessed end 452. In some examples, each symmetrical portion 451A, 451B may have a minimum width W5 at the central axis 450 and a maximum width W6 defined by the recessed end 452. In some examples, the maximum width W6 may be twice the minimum width W5. Furthermore, the bottom opening 421 may be oriented at a total angle γ1 of at least 150 degrees about the longitudinal axis 411. In some examples, the total angle γ1 may be between approximately 150 degrees and approximately 180 degrees.

[0192] Furthermore, the movable opening 431 may include two symmetrical portions 451C and 451D about the central axis 460. For example... Figure 19AAs shown, when the movable opening 431 and the bottom opening 421 are aligned with each other, the central axis 460 may coincide with the central axis 450. Each symmetrical portion 451C, 451D may extend from the central axis 460 to the recessed end 454. Furthermore, each symmetrical portion 451C, 451D may have a minimum width W7 at the central axis and a maximum width W8 defined by the recessed end 454. In some examples, the maximum width W8 may be twice the minimum width W7. Additionally, the movable opening 431 may be oriented at a total angle γ2 of at least 150 degrees around the longitudinal axis 411. In some examples, the total angle γ2 may be between approximately 150 degrees and approximately 180 degrees. In some cases, the movable opening 431 may have a shape substantially similar to the bottom opening 421.

[0193] Figure 20 It shows along Figure 17A The cross-sectional view of container 400 taken from line 6-6. Movable component 430 is in... Figure 20 The bottom opening 421 is at least partially exposed, allowing removal of the bottom article 10A from the plurality of articles 10 in the container 400, such that the bottom article 10A can be manually removed by gripping it through the bottom opening 421 and the movable opening 431. The concave ends 452, 453 and the maximum widths W4, W6 (in...) Figure 19A (As shown in the diagram) This can help to hold the bottom article 10A for manual removal through each of the bottom opening 421 and the movable opening 431. Alternatively, the bottom article 10A can be manually removed by shaking or tilting the container 400, such that at least the bottom article 10A moves through the bottom opening 421 and the movable opening 431 under the influence of gravity. Thus, the container 400 provides an easy-to-use dispensing mechanism for dispensing the bottom article 10A from the container 400.

[0194] Figure 21A and Figure 21B It is according to the fifth aspect of the invention for stacking multiple articles 10 on top of each other (in) Figure 22A and Figure 22B The image shows front perspective views of different configurations of container 500. Furthermore, Figure 21C An exploded perspective view of container 500 is shown.

[0195] refer to Figures 21A to 21C The container 500 includes a body 510 having a hollow tubular shape. The hollow tubular shape allows the body 510 to accommodate multiple articles 10 therein. Figure 22A and Figure 22B (as shown in the image) at least some of the products.

[0196] The body 510 includes a first closed end 512 and a second open end 514 opposite to the first closed end 512. In other words, the second open end 514 may be opposite to the first closed end 512. The body 510 extends along a longitudinal axis 511. Specifically, the body 510 may extend along the longitudinal axis 511 between the first closed end 512 and the second open end 514. The first closed end 512 may define a closed top 502 of the container 500.

[0197] The container 500 also includes a bottom member 520. The bottom member 520 may be at least partially received within the body 510. In other words, at least a portion of the bottom member 520 may be received within the body 510. The bottom member 520 may be securely connected to the body 510 at a second opening end 514. Furthermore, the bottom member 520 may define a bottom opening 521 through which it communicates with the second opening end 514. Figure 21B and Figure 21C (as shown in the figure). The bottom opening 521 may be aligned with and offset from the second opening end 514. The bottom member 520 may have a hollow tubular shape, wherein the bottom opening 521 is located away from the second opening end 514.

[0198] Container 500 also includes a movable member 530 movably coupled to the bottom member 520, such that the movable member 530 is in a closed position 532 relative to the bottom member 520. Figure 21A (shown in) and open position 534 (in) Figure 21B (as shown in the diagram) can move between. The movable member 530 defines the closed bottom end 504 of the container 500.

[0199] The movable member 530 may also define a movable opening 531 through which it communicates with the second opening end 514 (in Figure 21B (As shown in the diagram). The movable opening 531 extends at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis 511. The movable opening 531 may be similar in shape to Figure 19A The container 400 has a movable opening 431. Therefore, the movable opening 531 can be oriented at a total angle of at least 150 degrees around the longitudinal axis 511. Furthermore, the movable opening 531 may include two symmetrical portions (not shown) about a central axis (not shown). Each symmetrical portion may extend from the central axis to a recessed end (not shown). Each symmetrical portion may have a minimum width at the central axis and a maximum width defined by the recessed end.

[0200] The movable member 530 can slide relative to the bottom member 520 along the longitudinal axis 511 between a closed position 532 and an open position 534. The movable member 530 can slide along the longitudinal axis 611 in direction D7 to move the movable member 530 from the closed position 532 to the open position 534. The movable member 530 can slide along the longitudinal axis 611 in the opposite direction to D7 to move the movable member 530 from the open position 534 to the closed position 532.

[0201] In the closed position 532, the movable opening 531 can be closed. Specifically, in the closed position 532, the bottom member 520 can cover the movable opening 531. In the open position 534, the movable opening 531 can be at least partially exposed to allow removal of the bottom article 10A (in) from the plurality of articles 10 of the container 500. Figure 22A and Figure 22B (as shown in the figure). Specifically, in the open position 534, the movable opening 531 can be at least partially offset from the bottom member 520 relative to the longitudinal axis 511. In other words, in the open position 534, at least a portion of the movable opening 531 can be axially offset from the bottom member 520 relative to the longitudinal axis 511.

[0202] The body 510 can be configured to provide pressure resistance and moisture protection to the container 500. In other words, the body 510 can protect multiple articles 10 (in... Figure 20 The container 500 is free from compression (e.g., external forces caused by the container during transport or its use) and can reduce or prevent contact between the multiple articles 10 in the container 500 and moisture present in the external environment where the container 500 is placed (e.g., a shower room). Therefore, the container 500 can reduce or prevent external moisture from being absorbed by the multiple articles 10 stored in the container 500.

[0203] The body 510 may be made primarily of paper material and may be substantially plastic-free. Specifically, the body 510 may include 0% to 5% plastic by weight. The body 510, made of paper material, may include a barrier material to protect the body 510 from, for example, moisture, grease / oil, oxygen, etc. Furthermore, the bottom member 520 and the movable member 530 may be made of plastic. Alternatively, the bottom member 520 and the movable member 530 may be made of injection-molded pulp or a combination of injection-molded paper and plastic. Additionally, the container 500 may be made substantially of paper and / or aluminum. In some examples, the container 500 may contain less plastic per dose than current liquid shampoo bottles. In some examples, the container 500 may contain less than 60%, less than 55%, or less than 50% plastic.

[0204] Figure 22A and Figure 22B It shows along Figure 21A The cross-sectional view of container 500 taken from line 8-8. Movable component 530 can... Figure 22A The middle part is in the closed position 532, while the movable part 530 can be in the closed position 532. Figure 22B The middle is in the open position 534.

[0205] The movable member 530 is slidable along the longitudinal axis 511 relative to the bottom member 520 from a closed position 532 to an open position 534, such that the movable opening 531 is at least partially offset from the bottom member 520 relative to the longitudinal axis 511 to allow removal of the bottom product 10A from the plurality of products 10 of the container 500. For example, the bottom product 10A can be manually removed by gripping it through the movable opening 531. Alternatively, with the movable member 530 in the open position 534, the bottom product 10A can be manually removed by shaking or tilting the container 500, such that at least the bottom product 10A moves through the movable opening 531 under gravity. Thus, the container 500 provides an easy-to-use dispensing mechanism for dispensing the bottom product 10A from the container 500.

[0206] Figure 23A and Figure 23B It is according to the sixth aspect of the invention for stacking multiple articles 10 on top of each other (in) Figures 26A to 27B The front perspective views of different configurations of container 600 are shown in the image. Furthermore, Figure 24 An exploded perspective view of container 600 is shown.

[0207] refer to Figure 23A , Figure 23B and Figure 24 The container 600 includes a body 610 having a hollow tubular shape. The hollow tubular shape allows the body 610 to accommodate multiple articles 10 therein. Figures 26A to 27B (as shown in the image) at least some of the products.

[0208] The body 610 includes a first closed end 612 and a second open end 614 opposite to the first closed end 612. In other words, the second open end 614 may be opposite to the first closed end 612. The body 610 extends along a longitudinal axis 611. Specifically, the body 610 may extend along the longitudinal axis 611 between the first closed end 612 and the second open end 614. The first closed end 612 may define a closed top 602 of the container 600.

[0209] The container 600 also includes a bottom member 620. The bottom member 620 is securely coupled to the body 610 at a second open end 614. Furthermore, the bottom member 620 may define a bottom opening 621 through which it communicates with the second open end 614. The bottom opening 621 may extend at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis 611. The bottom opening 621 may be similar to... Figure 19A The container 400 has a bottom opening 421. Furthermore, the bottom opening 621 may be oriented at a total angle of at least 150 degrees around the longitudinal axis 611. Additionally, the bottom opening 621 may include two symmetrical portions (not shown) about a central axis (not shown). Each symmetrical portion may extend from the central axis to a recessed end (not shown). Each symmetrical portion may have a minimum width at the central axis and a maximum width defined by the recessed end.

[0210] Container 600 also includes a movable member 630 movably coupled to the bottom member 620, such that the movable member 630 is in a closed position 632 relative to the bottom member 620 (see [link]). Figure 23B ) and open position 634 (see Figure 23A The movable member 630 defines the closed bottom end 604 of the container 600.

[0211] The movable member 630 may further define a movable opening 631 through which it communicates with the second opening end 614. The movable opening 631 extends at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis 611. The movable opening 631 may be similar to Figure 19A The container 400 has a movable opening 431. Therefore, the movable opening 631 can be oriented at a total angle of at least 150 degrees around the longitudinal axis 611. Furthermore, the movable opening 631 may include two symmetrical portions (not shown) about a central axis (not shown). Each symmetrical portion may extend from the central axis to a recessed end (not shown). Each symmetrical portion may have a minimum width at the central axis and a maximum width defined by the recessed end.

[0212] The movable member 630 can rotate about the longitudinal axis 611 in direction D8 to move the movable member 630 between a closed position 632 and an open position 634 (e.g., from the open position 634 to the closed position 632). The movable member 630 can also rotate about the longitudinal axis 611 in the opposite direction to D8 to move the movable member 630 between a closed position 632 and an open position 634 (e.g., from the closed position 632 to the open position 634).

[0213] In the closed position 632, the movable opening 631 can be closed. Specifically, in the closed position 632, the movable opening 631 may not be aligned with the bottom opening 621. In the open position 634, the movable opening 631 may be at least partially exposed to allow removal of the bottom article 10A (in) from the plurality of articles 10 of the container 600. Figure 27B (as shown in the diagram). Specifically, in the open position 634, the movable opening 631 can be at least partially aligned with the bottom opening 621.

[0214] The movable member 630 may also include a bottom portion 636 defining a closed bottom end 604 of the container 600. The bottom portion 636 may define a slot 635 passing through it. The container 600 may also include a slider 640. The slider 640 may be received at least partially through the slot 635.

[0215] The body 610 can be configured to provide pressure resistance and moisture protection to the container 600. In other words, the body 610 can protect multiple articles 10 (in... Figures 27A to 28B The container 600 is free from compression (e.g., external forces caused by the container during transport or its use) and can reduce or prevent contact between the multiple articles 10 in the container 600 and moisture present in the external environment where the container 600 is placed (e.g., a shower room). Therefore, the container 600 can reduce or prevent external moisture from being absorbed by the multiple articles 10 stored in the container 600.

[0216] The body 610 may be made primarily of paper material and may be substantially plastic-free. Specifically, the body 610 may include 0% to 10% plastic by weight, or alternatively, 0% to 5% plastic. The body 610, made of paper material, may include a barrier material to protect the body 610 from, for example, moisture, grease / oil, oxygen, etc. Furthermore, the movable member 630 may be made of molded pulp, wherein the barrier material is applied to the molded pulp. Additionally, the bottom member 620 and the slider 640 may be made of plastic. Alternatively, the bottom member 620 and the slider 640 may be made of injection-molded pulp or a combination of injection-molded paper and plastic. Furthermore, the container 600 may be made substantially of paper and / or aluminum. In some examples, the container 600 may contain less plastic per dose than current liquid shampoo bottles. In some examples, the container 600 may contain less than 60%, less than 55%, or less than 50% plastic.

[0217] Figure 25A and Figure 25B Top and bottom perspective views of the movable member 630 and the slider 640 are shown respectively. Furthermore, Figure 26A and Figure 26B The front and bottom perspective views of the slider 640 are shown respectively.

[0218] refer to Figures 25A to 26B The slider 640 may include a sliding portion 642 (in Figure 26A and Figure 26B (As shown in the diagram), the sliding portion is slidably received via a slot 635. The slider 640 may also include an engagement portion 644 connected to the sliding portion 642. The engagement portion 644 may be disposed within the movable member 630. The engagement portion 644 may be configured to engage the bottom article 10A (in the diagram) of a plurality of articles 10. Figure 27A (As shown in the diagram). The slider 640 may also include a gripping portion 646, which is connected to the slider 642 opposite to the engaging portion 644. The gripping portion 646 may be disposed outside the movable member 630. Each of the engaging portion 644 and the gripping portion 646 may be wider than the slot 635 in order to secure the slider 642 within the slot 635. The slider 642 may be narrower than the slot 635, or may have a width substantially similar to that of the slot 635.

[0219] The engagement portion 644 may have a substantially planar shape. The slider 640 also includes an end portion 648 extending from the end of the engagement portion 644, which may be located away from the movable opening 631. The end portion 648 may be inclined toward the plane defined by the engagement portion 644. In some examples, the end portion 648 may be substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the engagement portion 644.

[0220] Figure 27A and Figure 27B The front perspective view and top view of a portion of container 600 are shown respectively. Furthermore, Figure 28A and Figure 28B They respectively show the state with Figure 27A and Figure 27B The images show front perspective and top views of portions of container 600 with different configurations. For illustrative purposes, Figures 27A to 28B Some components of container 600 are not shown. Additionally, multiple articles 10 are... Figures 27A to 28B The middle part is indicated by a dashed line.

[0221] The movable component 630 can be in Figures 27A to 28B The opening position 634 is located within the bottom opening. In other words, the movable opening 631 can be at least partially aligned with the bottom opening 621 to allow for removal. Figures 27A to 28B Bottom product 10A.

[0222] refer to Figures 26A to 28B In the open position 634 of the movable member 630, the gripping portion 646 can be configured to move toward the bottom opening 621, thereby allowing the sliding portion 642 (in) Figure 26A and Figure 26B (as shown in the diagram) along slot 635 (in) Figure 25B(As shown in the diagram) and the engagement portion 644 slide to move the bottom article 10A toward the bottom opening 621, such that the bottom article 10A extends at least partially through the bottom opening 621 for removal from the container 600. In some examples, the slider 640 may be biased away from the bottom opening 621. Specifically, the slider 640 may be toward the slot 635 (in the diagram). Figure 25B The end portion 648 (shown in the figure) is biased away from the bottom opening 621. The end portion 648 can engage and push the bottom article 10A toward the bottom opening 621.

[0223] Furthermore, after the bottom product 10A is removed from the container 600, the gripping portion 646 can be configured to move away from the bottom opening 621, such that the engaging portion 644 engages successive bottom products 10 among a plurality of products 10. The successive bottom products 10 may be products stacked on top of the bottom products 10A. As discussed above, the slider 640 may be biased away from the bottom opening 621. Therefore, in some examples, the slider 640 may automatically move away from the bottom opening 621 after the bottom product 10A is removed from the container 600. Furthermore, the container 600 may allow sequential dispensing of successive bottom products 10A from a stack of multiple products 10. Thus, the container 600 provides an easy-to-use dispensing mechanism for dispensing bottom products 10A from the container 600.

[0224] refer to Figure 29 The container 700 may include a column 710, which may optionally be included in any of the embodiments described herein. The column 710 may be positioned through at least one hole in each soluble article to help keep the soluble articles in line throughout the dispensing process. The column 710 may pierce the soluble articles, thereby creating a hole and / or the hole may be formed before packaging the articles. The column 710 may have a smooth texture to avoid or minimize tearing of the soluble articles. The column 710 may be positioned inside the container and may extend along the length of the container from the top end 702 (e.g., extending approximately at the center of the top end 702) to the bottom end 704. The distal end 715 of the column may not contact the bottom end 704. Instead, sufficient space may be required between the distal end 715 and the dispensed soluble articles so that one or more articles are not jammed during dispensing. Additionally, the distal end 715 cannot be too far from the bottom end 704, as this would cause the articles to twist or flip, making dispensing more difficult. The distal end can be positioned at a height that allows for smooth dispensing, ensuring that the dispensed item is not flipped, twisted, or otherwise obstructed, even when only one item remains in the container. It has been found that for fibrous items, the distal end of the post can be spaced apart from the top surface of the next item to be dispensed (e.g., an item located at the bottom of the dispenser), and in some examples, the distal end can be spaced apart from the top surface of the next item to be dispensed by approximately 1.5 item heights.

[0225] Figure 30A and Figures 30C to 30D Perspective views of the cup member 840, slider 850, and hollow member 820 are shown in closed, open / ready-to-dispense, and bent / dispense positions, respectively. A container like the container 100 described herein may also include a cup member 840 movably coupled to the hollow member 820 via one or more hinges 860, allowing the movable member to move relative to the bottom member between a closed and open position. The cup member is movable along a longitudinal axis z and / or about a radial axis z. When in the open or bent configuration, the space between the cup member 840 and the hollow member 820 defines an opening 841 through which the article can be dispensed.

[0226] Figure 30B and Figure 30E The slider 850 shown is movably connected to the cup member 840 and can be positioned opposite the opening 841. The slider 850 may include an engagement portion 853 configured to engage the bottom article of a plurality of articles. The engagement portion 853 may be positioned toward or at the end of the slider 850 and may be positioned such that the engagement portion 853 extends into the hollow member 820. The slider 850 may also include a grip portion 857 connected to the slider at the end of the slider 850 remote from the engagement portion 853. The grip portion 857 may be positioned substantially in line with the outer edge of the movable member 840; alternatively, the grip portion 857 may be positioned outside the outer edge of the movable member 840. A spring may be connected to the slider 850 at the same end but on the opposite side of the engagement portion 853. In some examples, the spring may be a leaf spring. In some examples, the spring may be made of the same material as the slider 850 and / or the cup member 840. In other examples, the spring may be made of a different material (e.g., metal) than the slider 850 and / or cup member 840. Figure 30B In the middle, the spring 855 of the slider 850 is relaxed a, which corresponds to Figure 30A Closed position and Figure 30C The location to open within. Figure 30E In the middle, spring 30E is bent, which corresponds to Figure 30D The curved position in the middle.

[0227] To dispense the product, the dispenser is opened, and then the slider 850 moves along a defined path along the diameter d of the cup member 840 generally toward the opening 841. The slider 850 can be moved by a user pushing the gripping portion 857 with one or more fingers. As the slider 850 moves, the engaging portion 853 moves radially toward the opening 841. Figure 30EAs shown, when the engaging portion 853 moves, it brings the article toward the opening 841 and presses the spring 855 into a bent position. In the bent position, the spring presses against the flange attached to the cup member, thereby bending the spring. In the bent position, as... Figure 30D and Figure 30E As shown, the user can easily grasp the product with two fingers, and the spring gradually returns to the open position, as... Figure 30B and Figure 30C As shown. The user can then close the dispenser by rotating the cup member 840 about the axis h defined by the hinge 860 until the dispenser is engaged with the hollow member 820.

[0228] combination :

[0229] A. A container for multiple articles, the container comprising:

[0230] A body having a hollow tubular shape and extending along a longitudinal axis, the body including a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, wherein at least the second end is open;

[0231] A hollow member, which is fixedly connected to the body at the second end and defines a first opening therethrough, the first opening extending at an angle about the longitudinal axis;

[0232] A cup member rotatably coupled to the hollow member such that the cup member can rotate relative to the hollow member about the longitudinal axis, the cup member defining a second opening therethrough, the second opening extending at an angle about the longitudinal axis, wherein the cup member includes a base portion defining a closed bottom end of the container and defining a grooved track facing the second end of the body; and

[0233] A cam arm received within the hollow member and the cup member, wherein the cam arm is movably coupled to the hollow member and includes a protrusion that movably engages with the groove track, such that the cam arm moves relative to the hollow member due to the relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member;

[0234] The main body, the hollow component, and the cup component together house the multiple articles;

[0235] The hollow member and the cup member are rotatable relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein in the open configuration, the first opening and the second opening are at least partially aligned with each other to define a dispensing opening, and wherein in the closed configuration, the first opening and the second opening are not aligned with each other to close the dispensing opening; and

[0236] The cam arm moves between an engagement position corresponding to the closed configuration and a dispensing position corresponding to the open configuration due to the relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member. In the engagement position, the cam arm is configured to engage the bottom product of the plurality of products, and the cam arm is also configured to move the bottom product due to the relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member, such that in the dispensing position of the cam arm, the bottom product extends at least partially through the dispensing opening and is removable from the container.

[0237] B. The container according to paragraph A, wherein relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member in a first direction about the longitudinal axis from a closed configuration to an open configuration causes the cam arm to move from the engagement position to the dispensing position, and wherein, after the bottom article is removed from the container, relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member in a second direction opposite to the first direction causes the cam arm to move from the dispensing position to the engagement position and engage the successive bottom articles among the plurality of articles.

[0238] C. The container according to paragraph A or B further includes a lid attached to the body at a first end, wherein the lid is configured to close the first end of the body to define a closed top of the container.

[0239] D. The container according to any one of paragraphs A to C, the container further comprising a follower slidably received within the body and configured to engage the plurality of articles such that the plurality of articles are at least partially received between the follower and the cam arm relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0240] E, a container according to any one of paragraphs A to D, wherein the hollow component comprises:

[0241] A first connecting portion is fixedly connected to the main body;

[0242] A second connecting portion, rotatably connected to the cup member, defines the first opening as an angled cut; and

[0243] A protrusion is disposed between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, and the protrusion engages with each of the body and the cup component such that the protrusion is disposed between the body and the cup component along the longitudinal axis.

[0244] According to paragraph F, the container further includes a plurality of shaped portions disposed on the outer surface of the first connecting portion, and wherein these shaped portions engage with the body to rotatably and / or axially fix the body and the hollow member relative to each other.

[0245] G is a container according to any one of paragraphs A to F, wherein the hollow member further includes an inclined protrusion disposed at an end of the hollow member, and wherein the cup member further defines an inclined slot that movably engages with the inclined protrusion of the hollow member to achieve relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member.

[0246] H is the container according to paragraph G, wherein the cup component further includes:

[0247] The second opening is defined as part of the inclined cut; and

[0248] A connecting portion that connects the circumferential edge of the base portion to the portion;

[0249] The inclined slot is defined between the circumferential edge of the base portion and the connecting portion.

[0250] I. A container according to any one of paragraphs A to H, wherein the cup member further includes a lip disposed at an end remote from the base portion, wherein the hollow member further includes a groove in which the lip of the cup member is received at least partially, such that the lip is rotatable relative to the groove.

[0251] J is a container according to any one of paragraphs A to I, wherein the hollow member further includes a coupling feature extending from the inner surface of the hollow member, and wherein the cam arm further includes a coupling element received at least partially by the coupling feature to pivotally couple the cam arm to the coupling feature.

[0252] K, according to the container described in paragraph J, wherein the connecting feature includes: a narrow orifice; a shoulder disposed adjacent to the narrow orifice; and a wide orifice disposed adjacent to the shoulder and opposite to the narrow orifice, and wherein the connecting element of the cam arm includes: a narrow portion at least partially pivotally received within the narrow orifice; and a wide portion at least partially pivotally received within the wide portion and engaging with the shoulder.

[0253] L is a container according to any one of paragraphs A to K, wherein the cam arm further includes: a receiving portion configured to receive the bottom article thereon; and an engaging portion extending from and inclined toward the receiving portion, the engaging portion being configured to engage with the bottom article and move it toward the dispensing opening, wherein the protrusion extends from the receiving portion.

[0254] M is the container according to paragraph L, wherein the cam arm further includes a curved portion that extends from the engagement portion and away from the receiving portion, and wherein, at the engagement position, the curved portion engages with the inner surface of the hollow member.

[0255] N is the container described in paragraph L or M, wherein the receiving portion of the cam arm further defines a V-shaped notch spaced apart from the engaging portion.

[0256] O is a container according to any one of paragraphs A to N, wherein the grooved track extends from a first groove end to a second groove end, wherein in the engagement position, the protrusion of the cam arm engages with the first groove end of the grooved track, and wherein in the dispensing position, the protrusion of the cam arm engages with the second groove end of the grooved track.

[0257] P is a container according to any one of paragraphs A to O, wherein the base portion includes a first main surface and a second main surface opposite to the first main surface, wherein the groove track extends from the first main surface, and wherein the cam arm is at least partially disposed on the first main surface and moves along the first main surface between the engagement position and the dispensing position.

[0258] Q, according to the container described in paragraph P, wherein the base portion further includes: a continuous sidewall extending from the first main surface beyond the second main surface; and a bottom wall connected to the continuous sidewall and located away from the first main surface, wherein the continuous sidewall and the bottom wall define the groove track therebetween.

[0259] R, according to the container described in paragraph Q, wherein the base portion further includes: a plurality of interconnecting ribs extending from the second main surface; and a rib extending from the second main surface and surrounding the plurality of interconnecting ribs, wherein the rib is connected to at least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs, wherein at least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs define a plurality of hexagons, and wherein at least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs are connected to the continuous sidewall.

[0260] S is a container according to any one of paragraphs A to R, wherein the body comprises 0% to 5% plastic by weight.

[0261] A container for multiple articles, the container comprising:

[0262] A body having a hollow tubular shape and extending along a longitudinal axis, the body including a first open end and a second open end opposite the first open end; a top member fixedly coupled to the body at the first open end, the top member defining a top opening through which it communicates with the first open end, wherein the top opening is configured to selectively open or close; and

[0263] A propeller, which is slidably received within the body and movable along the longitudinal axis, defines a movable closed bottom end of the container;

[0264] The plurality of articles are received within the body and stacked on top of the pusher, and the pusher is movable along the longitudinal axis toward the top opening such that the top article of the plurality of articles can be removed from the top opening.

[0265] According to paragraph T, the container also includes a lid that is removably attached to the body and configured to selectively close the first opening end and the top opening of the top member.

[0266] V is the container as described in paragraph T or U, wherein the top component includes:

[0267] The portion of the top opening is fixedly connected to the first opening end of the body and defines a portion of the top opening aligned with the first opening end;

[0268] A joining portion, which is connected to the portion and extends at least partially into the top opening, the joining portion including an inclined planar surface inclined toward the longitudinal axis, wherein the inclined planar surface is configured to engage with the top article and separate the top article from the remaining articles among the plurality of articles.

[0269] According to paragraph T, the container further includes a movable member rotatably coupled to the top member such that the movable member is rotatable relative to the top member about the longitudinal axis, wherein the movable member defines a movable opening therethrough, the movable opening selectively and at least partially aligned with the top opening of the top member to facilitate removal of the top article from the container, and wherein the movable member closes the top opening when the movable opening is not aligned with the top opening.

[0270] X is the container according to paragraph Y, wherein each of the top opening and the movable opening extends at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis and is oriented at a total angle of at least 150 degrees around the longitudinal axis, wherein each of the top opening and the movable opening includes two symmetrical portions about a central axis, each symmetrical portion extending from the central axis to a concave end, wherein each symmetrical portion has a minimum width at the central axis and a maximum width defined by the concave end.

[0271] Y A container for multiple articles, the container comprising:

[0272] A body having a hollow tubular shape and extending along a longitudinal axis, the body including a first closed end and a second open end opposite to the first closed end;

[0273] A bottom component, which is fixedly connected to the body at the second opening end;

[0274] A movable member movably coupled to the bottom member, such that the movable member is movable relative to the bottom member between a closed position and an open position, wherein the movable member defines a movable opening through which it communicates with the end of the second opening, the movable opening extending at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0275] In the closed position, the movable opening is closed, and in the open position, the movable opening is at least partially exposed to allow removal of the bottom article of the plurality of articles from the container, and the movable member defines the closed bottom end of the container.

[0276] Z is the container according to paragraph Y, wherein the bottom member defines a bottom opening that communicates with the second opening end therethrough, the bottom opening extending at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis, wherein the movable member is rotatable relative to the bottom member about the longitudinal axis between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the movable opening is not aligned with the bottom opening, and wherein in the open position the movable opening is at least partially aligned with the bottom opening.

[0277] AA, according to paragraph Z, describes a container in which the bottom opening faces at least 150 degrees around the longitudinal axis and includes two symmetrical portions about the central axis, each symmetrical portion extending from the central axis to a concave end, wherein each symmetrical portion has a minimum width at the central axis and a maximum width defined by the concave end.

[0278] According to paragraph Z, the container includes a bottom portion defining a closed bottom end of the container, the bottom portion defining a slot therethrough, and the container further includes a slider comprising:

[0279] A sliding portion, which is slidably received by the slot;

[0280] A joining portion, which is connected to the sliding portion and disposed within the movable member, wherein the joining portion is configured to engage the bottom article among the plurality of articles; and

[0281] A gripping portion, which is connected to the sliding portion opposite to the engaging portion, and is disposed outside the movable member;

[0282] Each of the engaging portion and the gripping portion is wider than the slot to secure the sliding portion within the slot;

[0283] In the open position of the movable member, the gripping portion is configured to move toward the bottom opening, thereby causing the sliding portion to slide along the slot and the engaging portion to move the bottom article toward the bottom opening, such that the bottom article extends at least partially through the bottom opening for removal from the container; and

[0284] After the bottom product is removed from the container, the gripping portion is configured to move away from the bottom opening, such that the engaging portion engages the successive bottom products among the plurality of products.

[0285] AC describes a container according to paragraph Y, wherein the movable member is slidable along the longitudinal axis relative to the bottom member between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the bottom member covers the movable opening, and wherein in the open position the movable opening is at least partially offset from the bottom member relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0286] AD is a container according to any one of paragraphs Y, Z, AA and AB, wherein the movable opening is oriented at a total angle of at least 150 degrees around the longitudinal axis and includes two symmetrical portions about the central axis, each symmetrical portion extending from the central axis to a concave end, wherein each symmetrical portion has a minimum width at the central axis and a maximum width defined by the concave end.

[0287] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, every reference cited herein, including any cross-references or related patents or patent applications, and any patent application or patent claiming priority to or benefiting from it, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Reference to any reference is not an endorsement of it as prior art to any disclosed or protected art herein, nor is it an endorsement of any such invention, either on its own or in combination with any one or more references. Furthermore, where any meaning or definition of a term in this invention conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in referenced documents, the meaning or definition given to that term in this invention shall prevail.

[0288] While specific embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described by way of example, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications falling within the scope of the invention be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A container for multiple articles, the container comprising: A body having a hollow tubular shape and extending along a longitudinal axis, the body including a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, wherein at least the second end includes an opening; A hollow member, which is fixedly connected to the body at the second end and defines a first opening extending through it at an angle about the longitudinal axis; A cup member rotatably coupled to the hollow member such that the cup member is rotatable relative to the hollow member about the longitudinal axis, the cup member defining a second opening extending through it at an angle about the longitudinal axis, wherein the cup member includes a base portion defining a closed bottom end of the container and defining a grooved track facing the second end of the body; and A cam arm, received within the hollow member and the cup member, wherein the cam arm is movably coupled to the hollow member and includes a protrusion movably engaging with the groove track, such that the cam arm moves relative to the hollow member due to relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member; The main body, the hollow component, and the cup component collectively house the plurality of articles therein; The hollow member and the cup member are rotatable relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the first opening and the second opening are at least partially aligned with each other to define a dispensing opening. In the closed configuration, the first opening and the second opening are not aligned with each other to close the dispensing opening. As a result of the relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member, the cam arm moves between an engagement position corresponding to the closed configuration and a dispensing position corresponding to the open configuration. In the engagement position, the cam arm is configured to engage with the bottom article of the plurality of articles. Furthermore, the cam arm is configured to move the bottom article due to the relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member, such that in the dispensing position of the cam arm, the bottom article at least partially extends through the dispensing opening and is removable from the container.

2. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member about the longitudinal axis in a first direction from the closed configuration to the open configuration causes the cam arm to move from the engagement position to the dispensing position, and wherein, after the bottom article is removed from the container, the relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member in a second direction opposite to the first direction from the open configuration to the closed configuration causes the cam arm to move from the dispensing position to the engagement position and engage the successive bottom articles among the plurality of articles.

3. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a cap attached to the body at the first end, wherein the cap is configured to close the first end of the body to define a closed top of the container.

4. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a follower slidably received within the body and configured to engage the inner surface of the body, such that the plurality of articles are at least partially received between the follower and the cam arm relative to the longitudinal axis.

5. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hollow component includes: A first connecting portion is fixedly connected to the main body; A second connecting portion, rotatably connected to the cup member, defines the first opening as a cut extending at an angle around the longitudinal axis; and A protrusion is disposed between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, the protrusion engaging with each of the body and the cup component, such that the protrusion is disposed between the body and the cup component along the longitudinal axis.

6. The container according to claim 5, characterized in that, The hollow component further includes a plurality of shaped portions disposed on the outer surface of the first connecting portion, wherein the shaped portions engage the body to rotate relative to each other and / or axially fix the body and the hollow component.

7. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hollow member further includes a protrusion extending at an angle around the longitudinal axis and disposed at an end of the hollow member, wherein the cup member further defines a groove extending at an angle around the longitudinal axis and movably engaging the protrusion of the hollow member to allow relative rotation between the hollow member and the cup member.

8. The container according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cup component further includes: The second opening is defined as a portion of a cut that extends at an angle around the longitudinal axis; and A connecting portion that connects the circumferential edge of the base portion to the portion; The groove is defined between the circumferential edge of the base portion, the portion, and the connecting portion.

9. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cup member further includes a lip disposed at the distal end of the base portion, wherein the hollow member further includes a groove that at least partially receives the lip of the cup member therein, such that the lip is rotatable relative to the groove.

10. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hollow member further includes a connecting feature extending from the inner surface of the hollow member, and wherein the cam arm further includes a connecting element that is at least partially received through the connecting feature to pivotally connect the cam arm to the connecting feature.

11. The container according to claim 10, characterized in that, The connection feature includes a narrow hole, a shoulder disposed adjacent to the narrow hole, and a wide hole disposed adjacent to the shoulder and opposite to the narrow hole, wherein the connection element of the cam arm includes a narrow portion at least partially pivotally received within the narrow hole and a wide portion at least partially pivotally received within the wide hole and engaging with the shoulder.

12. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cam arm further includes a receiving portion configured to receive the bottom article thereon and an engaging portion extending from and inclined toward the receiving portion, the engaging portion being configured to engage with the bottom article and move the bottom article toward the dispensing opening, wherein the protrusion extends from the receiving portion.

13. The container according to claim 12, characterized in that, The cam arm further includes a curved portion extending from the engagement portion and located at the distal end of the receiving portion, wherein, in the engagement position, the curved portion engages the inner surface of the hollow member.

14. The container according to claim 12, characterized in that, The receiving portion of the cam arm also defines a V-shaped notch spaced apart from the engaging portion.

15. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The grooved track extends from a first groove end to a second groove end, wherein, in the engagement position, the protrusion of the cam arm engages with the first groove end of the grooved track, and wherein, in the dispensing position, the protrusion of the cam arm engages with the second groove end of the grooved track.

16. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base portion includes a first main surface and a second main surface opposite to the first main surface, wherein the groove track extends from the first main surface, and wherein the cam arm is at least partially disposed on the first main surface and moves along the first main surface between the engagement position and the dispensing position.

17. The container according to claim 16, characterized in that, The base portion also includes a continuous sidewall extending beyond the second main surface from the first main surface and a bottom wall connected to the continuous sidewall and located at the distal end of the first main surface, wherein the continuous sidewall and the bottom wall define the groove track therebetween.

18. The container according to claim 17, characterized in that, The base portion further includes a plurality of interconnecting ribs extending from the second main surface and ribs extending from the second main surface and surrounding the plurality of interconnecting ribs, wherein the ribs are connected to at least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs, wherein at least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs define a plurality of hexagonal shapes, and wherein at least some of the plurality of interconnecting ribs are connected to the continuous sidewall.

19. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The body comprises 0% to 5% by weight of plastic.

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