Container device

Abstract

An apparatus and method, according to which a first container lid is sealingly engaged with a container body. Once so sealingly engaged, the container body is stacked on a second container lid such that a first three-dimensional profile of the second container lid matches a second three-dimensional profile of the container body located at the end of the container body opposite to the first container lid. In one or more embodiments, the second container lid is identical to the first container lid. In one or more embodiments, the stackable containers have respective removable and reattachable container lids. In one or more embodiments, each container body and its corresponding removable and reattachable lid are made of recyclable plastic.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 465,262, filed September 2, 2021, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This application relates to U.S. Application No. 29 / 806,332 (“332 Application”), filed September 2, 2021, Agent’s File No. 58822.9US01, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This application relates generally to containers, and more specifically, to stackable containers having removable and reattachable lids. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Figure 1 It is a top left front perspective view of a first container device in a first operating state or configuration according to one or more embodiments, the first container device including a container body and a container lid.

[0006] Figure 2A According to one or more embodiments Figure 1 Top-down left front perspective view of the main body of the container.

[0007] Figure 2B According to one or more embodiments Figure 1 The container body is viewed from below at the right rear perspective.

[0008] Figure 2C-1 According to one or more embodiments Figure 1 A front view of a portion of the container body.

[0009] Figure 2C-2 According to one or more embodiments Figure 2C-1 The rear view of this part of the container body.

[0010] Figure 2D According to one or more embodiments Figure 1 A top view of the container body.

[0011] Figure 2E According to one or more embodiments Figure 1 A bottom view of the container body.

[0012] Figure 2F It is according to one or more embodiments along Figure 2A The line 2F-2F cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the container body.

[0013] Figure 3AAccording to one or more embodiments Figure 1 Top-down left front perspective view of the container lid.

[0014] Figure 3B According to one or more embodiments Figure 1 A bottom view of the container lid.

[0015] Figure 3C-1 It is according to one or more embodiments along Figure 3B The line 3C-1-3C-1 cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the container lid.

[0016] Figure 3C-2 It is according to one or more embodiments along Figure 3B The line 3C-2-3C-2 cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the container lid.

[0017] Figure 3D According to one or more embodiments Figure 3C-1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the container lid.

[0018] Figure 4A It is in a second operating state or configuration according to one or more embodiments. Figure 1 Top left front perspective view of the first container equipment.

[0019] Figure 4B It is according to one or more embodiments along Figure 4A The line 4B-4B is cut off Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the first container equipment.

[0020] Figure 4C According to one or more embodiments Figure 4B An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the first container equipment.

[0021] Figure 4D It is in a third operating state or configuration according to one or more embodiments. Figure 4A The first container device (similar to) Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of the container equipment shown.

[0022] Figure 4E It is in a fourth operating state or configuration according to one or more embodiments. Figure 4A The first container device (similar to) Figure 4B and 4D A cross-sectional view of the container equipment shown.

[0023] Figure 5 According to one or more embodiments Figure 4A Cross-sectional views of the first and second container units. Detailed Implementation

[0024] refer to Figure 1 In one embodiment, the container device is generally indicated by reference numeral 100. The container device 100 includes a container body 105 and a container lid 110.

[0025] refer to Figures 2A to 2F In one embodiment, the container body 105 extends along a central axis 115 and defines an inner cavity 120. The container body 105 includes sidewalls 125, a neck 130, and a bottom wall 135. The sidewalls 125 are truncated spherical or truncated ellipsoidal, i.e., the shape of a truncated sphere or truncated spheroid (i.e., a spheroidal but not a perfect sphere). Alternatively or additionally, the sidewalls 125 (or a portion thereof) may be or include another curved shape, a cylindrical shape, a conical shape (e.g., a truncated conical shape), other shapes, or combinations thereof. The sidewalls 125 define axially opposed ends 140a and 140b. In one or more embodiments, the sidewalls 125 define a radius of curvature R1 at least at the end 140b (e.g., ...). Figure 2F (As shown). Alternatively or alternatively, at least a portion of the end 140b of the sidewall 125 may be a truncated cone. The end 140b of the sidewall 125 of the container body 105 and the bottom wall 135 together define, and may be referred to herein as, a “three-dimensional profile”; this three-dimensional profile reflects another three-dimensional profile defined by the container lid 110, which will be described in further detail below. In one or more embodiments, the neck 130 is cylindrical. The neck 130 defines an outer diameter D1, axially opposed ends 145a and 145b, and a spout 150 through which access to the cavity 120 of the container body 105 is possible. The end 145b of the neck 130 connects to the sidewall 125 at the end 145a of the sidewall 125. An outer retaining ring 155 extends around and outwardly from the neck 130. External threads 160a-b also extend around the neck 130. The external threads 160a-b are positioned relatively further away from the sidewall 125 than the outer retaining ring 155.

[0026] like Figure 2C-1As shown, external thread 160a defines circumferentially opposed ends 160aa and 160ab. Both ends 160aa and 160ab of thread 160a are tapered. Furthermore, external thread 160a extends helically around neck 130, causing the circumferentially opposed ends 160aa and 160ab to be axially spaced apart by a gap having an axial dimension A1. End 160aa of thread 160a extends relatively closer to end 145a of neck 130 than end 160ab of thread 160a, and end 160ab of thread 160a extends relatively closer to end 145b of neck 130 than end 160aa of thread 160a. External thread 160b extends through the gap between ends 160aa and 160ab of thread 160a.

[0027] like Figure 2C-2 As shown, the external thread 160b defines circumferentially opposed ends 160ba and 160bb. Both ends 160ba and 160bb of the thread 160b are tapered. Furthermore, the external thread 160b extends helically around the neck 130, causing the circumferentially opposed ends 160ba and 160bb to be axially spaced apart from each other by a gap having an axial dimension A2. In one or more embodiments, the axial dimensions A1 and A2 are the same. End 160ba of the thread 160b extends relatively closer to end 145a of the neck 130 than end 160bb of the thread 160b, and end 160bb of the thread 160b extends relatively closer to end 145b of the neck 130 than end 160ba of the thread 160b. The external thread 160a extends through the gap between ends 160ba and 160bb of the thread 160b.

[0028] like Figure 2C-1 and 2D As shown, a pair of circumferentially spaced gaps 165a-b axially pass through external threads 160a-b and are formed externally along the neck 130. More specifically, gap 165a defines a circumferential dimension C1 and is formed externally along the neck 130, axially passing through: the end 160aa of external thread 160a; and the intermediate portion of external thread 160b between opposite ends 160ba and 160bb. Similarly, gap 165b defines a circumferential dimension C2 and is formed externally along the neck 130 and axially passes through: the intermediate portion of external thread 160b between opposite ends 160ba and 160bb; and the end 160ab of external thread 160a. In one or more embodiments, circumferential dimensions C1 and C2 are the same.

[0029] like Figure 2C-2 and 2DAs shown, a pair of circumferentially spaced gaps 165c-d axially pass through external threads 160a-b and are formed externally along the neck 130. More specifically, gap 165c defines a circumferential dimension C3 and is formed externally along the neck 130, axially passing through: the end 160ba of external thread 160b; and the middle portion of external thread 160a between opposite ends 160aa and 160ab. Similarly, gap 165d defines a circumferential dimension C4 and is formed externally along the neck 130 and axially passes through: the middle portion of external thread 160a between opposite ends 160aa and 160ab; and the end 160bb of external thread 160b. In one or more embodiments, circumferential dimensions C3 and C4 are the same. In one or more embodiments, circumferential dimensions C1, C2, C3, and C4 are the same.

[0030] like Figure 2E As shown, the bottom wall 135 is connected to the side wall 125 at the end 140b of the side wall 125. An outer indentation pattern 170 is formed in the bottom wall 135. The outer indentation pattern 170 includes a central indentation 175a and petal indentations 175b-g distributed (e.g., uniformly distributed) around the central indentation 175a.

[0031] like Figure 2D and 2F As shown, the sidewall 125 of the container body 105 defines a maximum outer diameter D2. In one or more embodiments, a first ratio of the outer diameter D1 of the neck 130 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 exceeds a threshold or is within a certain range, making it difficult (at least more difficult than a conventional container cap-container body arrangement) to seal the gas pressure within the cavity 120 of the container body 110 from the atmosphere; this difficulty is addressed and overcome by various features / components of the container body 105 and the container cap 110, which will be discussed in further detail below.

[0032] For example, in one or more embodiments, the first ratio of the outer diameter D1 of the neck 130 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 is greater than or equal to 1:2. As another example, in one or more embodiments, the first ratio of the outer diameter D1 of the neck 130 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 is greater than or equal to 1:2 and less than or equal to 7:8. As another example, in one or more embodiments, the first ratio of the outer diameter D1 of the neck 130 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 is greater than or equal to 1:2 and less than or equal to 3:4. As another example, in one or more embodiments, the first ratio of the outer diameter D1 of the neck 130 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 is greater than or equal to 2:3. As another example, in one or more embodiments, the first ratio of the outer diameter D1 of the neck 130 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 is greater than or equal to 2:3 and less than or equal to 3:4.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the container body 105 is made of a suitable plastic / synthetic resin, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin. Alternatively or concurrently, the container body 105 may be or include polyamide resin, polycarbonate resin, polyacetal resin, polybutylene terephthalate resin, another synthetic resin having sufficient chemical resistance, etc., or any combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, the container body 105 is made of recyclable plastic. In one or more embodiments, the container body 105 may be formed by a molding process, such as biaxial blow molding, direct blow molding, injection blow molding, other molding processes, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0034] Reference Figures 3A to 3D In one embodiment, the container cap 110 extends along a central axis 180 and includes a sidewall 185 and a top wall 190. In one or more embodiments, the sidewall 185 is cylindrical. The sidewall 185 defines an inner diameter D3 and axially opposed ends 195a and 195b. The inner diameter D3 of the sidewall 185 is equal to or greater than the outer diameter D1 of the neck 130. Internal ridges or internal threads 200a-b extend circumferentially along the sidewall 185. In one or more embodiments, a second ratio of the inner diameter D3 of the sidewall 185 of the container cap 110 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 of the container body 105 exceeds a threshold or is within a range, making it difficult (at least more difficult than a conventional container cap-container body arrangement) to seal the gas pressure within the cavity 120 of the container body 110 from the atmosphere; this difficulty is addressed and overcome by various features / components of the container body 105 and the container cap 110, which will be discussed in further detail below.

[0035] For example, in one or more embodiments, the second ratio of the inner diameter D3 of the sidewall 185 of the container lid 110 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 of the container body 105 is greater than or equal to 1:2. As another example, in one or more embodiments, the second ratio of the inner diameter D3 of the sidewall 185 of the container lid 110 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 of the container body 105 is greater than or equal to 1:2 and less than or equal to 7:8. As yet another example, in one or more embodiments, the second ratio of the inner diameter D3 of the sidewall 185 of the container lid 110 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 of the container body 105 is greater than or equal to 1:2 and less than or equal to 7:8. 3 / 4. For example, in one or more embodiments, the second ratio of the inner diameter D3 of the sidewall 185 of the container lid 110 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 of the container body 105 is greater than or equal to 2:3. For example, in one or more embodiments, the second ratio of the inner diameter D3 of the sidewall 185 of the container lid 110 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 of the container body 105 is greater than or equal to 2:3 and less than or equal to 7:8. For example, in one or more embodiments, the second ratio of the inner diameter D3 of the sidewall 185 of the container lid 110 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 of the container body 105 is greater than or equal to 2:3 and less than or equal to 3:4.

[0036] like Figure 3C-1 and 3C-2 As shown, the internal thread 200a defines the circumferentially opposite ends 200aa (in Figure 3C-1 (visible in) and 200ab (in) Figure 3C-2 (As can be seen). The ends 200aa and 200bb of thread 200a are both tapered. Furthermore, the internal thread 200a extends helically along the sidewall 185, causing the circumferentially opposite ends 200aa and 200ab to be spaced apart from each other axially and circumferentially. End 200aa of thread 200a extends relatively closer to end 195a of sidewall 185 than end 200ab of thread 200a, and end 200ab of thread 200a extends relatively closer to end 195b of sidewall 185 than end 200aa of thread 200a.

[0037] Similarly, the internal thread 200b defines the circumferentially opposite end 200ba (in Figure 3C-2 (visible in) and 200bb (in) Figure 3C-1(As can be seen). The ends 200ba and 200bb of thread 200b are both tapered. Furthermore, the internal thread 200b extends helically along the sidewall 185, causing the circumferentially opposite ends 200ba and 200bb to be spaced apart from each other axially and circumferentially. End 200ba of thread 200b extends closer to end 195a of sidewall 185 than end 200bb of thread 200b, and end 200bb of thread 200b extends closer to end 195b of sidewall 185 than end 200ba of thread 200b.

[0038] like Figure 3B , 3C-1 As shown in 3C-2, a plurality of circumferentially spaced gaps 205a-d axially pass through the internal threads 200a-b and radially enter the sidewall 185. More specifically, gap 205a defines a circumferential dimension C5 and is formed radially inside the sidewall 185, and axially passes through: the end 200aa of the internal thread 200a; and the middle portion of the internal thread 200b between the opposite ends 200ba and 200bb.

[0039] The gap 205b defines a circumferential dimension C6 and is formed radially inwardly along the sidewall 185 and axially through the middle portion of the external thread 200b between the opposing ends 200ba and 200bb. Alternatively, the gap 205b may also be formed axially through the end 200bb of the internal thread 200b. In one or more embodiments, the circumferential dimensions C5 and C6 are the same.

[0040] The gap 205c defines a circumferential dimension C7 and is formed radially inside the sidewall 185 and axially through: the end 200ba of the internal thread 200b; and the intermediate portion of the internal thread 200a between the opposite ends 200aa and 200ab. In one or more embodiments, the circumferential dimension C7 is the same as the circumferential dimension C5, the circumferential dimension C6, or both.

[0041] The gap 205d defines a circumferential dimension C8 and is formed radially inside the sidewall 185, and axially passes through the middle portion of the external thread 200b between opposite ends 200ba and 200bb. Optionally, the gap 205d may also be formed axially through the end 200ab of the internal thread 200a. In one or more embodiments, the circumferential dimension C8 is the same as the circumferential dimensions C5, C6, C7, or any combination thereof.

[0042] like Figure 3A , 3C-1As shown in 3C-2, the top wall 190 is connected to the side wall 185 at end 195a. The seat belt 210 is detachably connected to the side wall 185 at end 195b. As a result, the side wall 185, the top wall 190, and the seat belt 210 together define an interior region 215. The top wall 190 includes a central portion 216a and an outer edge portion 216b. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the central portion 216a is planar. In one or more embodiments, the outer edge portion 216b extends circumferentially. The outer edge portion 216b connects the central portion 216a to the end 195a of the side wall 185. At least a portion of the central portion 216a and the outer edge portion 216b together define an outer recess 218 of the container lid 110.

[0043] Perforations 220a-b are formed radially through the container lid 110 at a circumferential boundary 225 between the seatbelt 210 and the end 195b of the sidewall 185, leaving a separable section 230 between the perforations 220a-b that detachably connects the seatbelt 210 to the end 195 of the sidewall 185. Perforation 220a is straight. Conversely, perforation 220b is serrated, forming opposing bevels 235a-b in the seatbelt 210 and the sidewall 185, respectively. In one or more embodiments, the perforations 220a-b include ten (10) straight perforations 220a and two (2) serrated perforations 220b, the two (2) serrated perforations 220b being circumferentially opposite each other, such that five (5) straight perforations 220a extend circumferentially between the two (2) serrated perforations 2220b on one side of the container cap 110, while another five (5) straight perforations 220a extend circumferentially between the two (2) serrated perforations 2220b on the other side of the container cap 110.

[0044] like Figure 3B , 3C-1 As shown in 3C-2, the inner ridges 240 extend radially inward from the seat belt 210, with gaps 245 between them. In one or more embodiments, the container seat belt 210 includes ten (14) circumferentially spaced inner ridges 240.

[0045] like Figure 3D As shown, the outer edge portion 216b of the top wall 190 includes outer surfaces 250a-b. The outer surface 250a extends circumferentially and radially inward, defining an outer recess 218 of the container lid 110 together with the central portion 216a of the top wall 190. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the outer surface 250a is curved. For example, at least a portion of the outer surface 250a may define a radius of curvature R2 (e.g., ...). Figure 3DAs shown), the radius of curvature R2 is the same as the radius of curvature R1. Alternatively, at least a portion of the outer surface 250a may be a truncated cone. The outer surface 250a of the central portion 216a of the top wall 190 of the container lid 110 and the outer edge portion 216b of the top wall 190 of the container lid 110 together define, and may be referred to herein as, a “three-dimensional profile”; as described above, this three-dimensional profile reflects the three-dimensional profile defined by the container body 105.

[0046] The outer surface 250b extends circumferentially and radially outward. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the outer surface 250b is curved. An inner retaining ring 255 extends inwardly from the outer edge portion 216b of the top wall 190, opposite the outer surface 250a, and into the inner region 215. The inner retaining ring 255 extends circumferentially and includes an inner surface 260a and an outer spherical protrusion 260b. In one or more embodiments, the inner surface 260a is cylindrical. An inner ridge 265 extends inwardly from the outer edge portion 216b of the top wall 190, opposite the outer surface 250b, and into the inner region 215. Alternatively or additionally, the inner ridge 265 may extend inwardly from the sidewall 185 of the container cap 110. The inner ridge 265 extends circumferentially and, together with the inner retaining ring 255, defines an inner annular groove 270 of the container cap 110 (i.e., the inner annular groove 270 extends between the inner retaining ring 255 and the inner ridge 265).

[0047] In one or more embodiments, the container lid 110 is made of the same resin material as the container body 105. Alternatively, the container lid 110 may be made of a different resin material than the container body 105. In one or more embodiments, the container lid 110 is made of a suitable plastic / synthetic resin, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin. Additionally or alternatively, the container lid 110 may be or include polyamide resin, polycarbonate resin, polyacetal resin, polybutylene terephthalate resin, another synthetic resin with sufficient chemical resistance, etc., or any combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, the container lid 110 is made of recyclable plastic. In one or more embodiments, both the container lid 110 and the container body 105 are made of recyclable plastic. In one or more embodiments, the container lid 110 may be formed by a molding process, such as biaxially oriented blow molding, direct blow molding, injection blow molding, other molding processes, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0048] refer to Figures 4A to 4C And continue to refer to Figures 1 to 3D In one embodiment, during operation, the container cap 110 can be attached to the container body 105 by screwing it onto the neck 130 of the container body 105, such as... Figure 4A and 4BAs indicated by arrows 275a-b in the diagram. Alternatively or concurrently, the container lid 110 may be attached to the container body 105 using another attachment mechanism, such as a "snap-on" feature, a locking feature, other attachment features, or any combination thereof. In any case, once so attached, the container lid 110 can be detached from the container body 105 and reattached to it, as shown by arrows 275a-b in the diagram. Figure 4D and 4E As shown (to be discussed in further detail below). More specifically, in order to attach (or reattach) the container cap 110 to the container body 105, the end 145a of the neck 130 of the container body 105 is received within the inner region 215 of the container cap 110, such that the internal threads 200a-b of the container cap 110 engage with the external threads 160a-b of the container body 105. Once engaged, the container cap 110 is rotated relative to the container body 105, such that the ends 200ab and 200bb of the internal threads 200a-b of the container cap 110 (as shown below). Figure 3C-1 and 3C-2 As shown, the ends 160aa and 160ba (as shown) of the external threads 160a-b of the container body 105 are accommodated. Figure 2C-1 and 2C-2 The container cap 110 is shown below and engages with the internal threads 200a-b of the container cap 110. Once the ends 200ab and 200bb of the internal threads 200a-b of the container cap 110 are thus received below and engaged with the ends 160aa and 160ba of the external threads 160a-b of the container body 105, the continuous rotation of the container cap 110 relative to the container body 105 screws the container cap 110 onto the container body 105 through a sliding engagement between the internal threads 200a-b of the container cap 110 and the external threads 160a-b of the container body 105. Although shown as screwed onto the container body 105 in a clockwise direction, in one or more embodiments, the threads of the container cap 110 and the threads of the container body 105 are alternatively helically formed in opposite directions, such that the container cap 110 is screwed onto the container body 105 in a counterclockwise direction.

[0049] In some embodiments, continuing to screw the container cap 110 onto the container body 105 results in an end-face engagement (e.g., a sealing engagement) defined by the end 145a of the neck 130 of the container 105 of the container cap 110, which is defined by the internal annular groove 270. Alternatively, continuing to screw the container cap 110 onto the container body 105 results in the internal retaining ring 255 moving toward the end 145a of the neck 130 of the container body 105, ultimately resulting in the end 145a of the neck 130 of the container body 105 being received within the internal annular groove 270 of the container cap 110, such that one or both of the external spherical protrusion 260b of the internal retaining ring 255 and the internal ridge 265 of the container cap 110 engage (e.g., a sealing engagement) with the end 145a of the neck 130 of the container body 105.

[0050] More specifically, in one or more embodiments, when the end 145a of the neck 130 of the container body 105 is received in the inner annular groove 270 of the container cap 110, the inner retaining ring 255 is bent radially inward, thereby applying a radially outward recoil force to the inside of the neck 130 at the end 145a, which causes the outer spherical protrusion 260b of the inner retaining ring 255 to engage (e.g., sealably engage) with the inside of the neck 130 at the end 145a. In such an embodiment, the engagement of the outer spherical protrusion 260b of the inner retaining ring 255 and the inner side of the neck 130 at the end 145a helps (optionally, in conjunction with the engagement of the inner ridge 265 of the container cap 110 and the outer side of the neck 130 at the end 145a, as described below) to seal and isolate the gas pressure within the cavity 120 of the container body 110 from the atmosphere, even if the first ratio of the outer diameter D1 of the neck 130 to the outer diameter D2 of the sidewall 125 is greater than or equal to 1:2; greater than or equal to 1:2 and less than or equal to 7:8; greater than or equal to 1:2 and less than or equal to 3:4; greater than or equal to 2:3; greater than or equal to 2:3 and less than or equal to 7:8; or greater than or equal to 2:3 and less than or equal to 3:4.

[0051] Alternatively or concurrently, in one or more embodiments, when the end 145a of the neck 130 of the container body 105 is received in the inner annular groove 270 of the container cap 110, the inner ridge 265 of the container cap 110 is radially outwardly bent, thereby applying a radially inward recoil force at the end 145a to the outer side of the neck 130, which causes the inner ridge 265 of the container cap 110 to engage (e.g., sealably engage) with the outer side of the neck. In such an embodiment, the engagement at end 145a between the inner ridge 265 of the container cap 110 and the outer side of the neck 130 helps (optionally, the sealing engagement at end 145a between the outer spherical protrusion 260b of the inner retaining ring 255 and the inner side of the neck 130) to seal off the gas pressure within the cavity 120 of the container body 110 from the atmosphere, even if the second ratio of the inner diameter D3 of the side wall 185 of the container cap 110 to the outer diameter D2 of the side wall 125 of the container body 105 is: greater than or equal to 1:2; greater than or equal to 1:2 and less than or equal to 7:8; greater than or equal to 1:2 and less than or equal to 3:4; greater than or equal to 2:3; greater than or equal to 2:3 and less than or equal to 7:8; or greater than or equal to 2:3 and less than or equal to 3:4.

[0052] Screwing the container cap 110 onto the container body 105 further causes the seat belt 210 to move toward the outer retaining ring 155 of the container body 105, eventually causing the inner ridge 240 of the seat belt 210 to slide past the outer retaining ring 155, thereby securing the seat belt 210 of the container cap 110 between the end 140a of the side wall 125 and the outer retaining ring 155 of the container body 105.

[0053] In several embodiments, a fluid (e.g., a beverage for human consumption) is disposed within the cavity 120 of the container body; in some embodiments, one or more of the aforementioned sealing connections seal against atmospheric pressure within the cavity 120 of the container body 110. In several embodiments, a fluid (e.g., alcohol, such as a flavoring wine) is disposed within the cavity 120 of the container body; in some embodiments, one or more of the aforementioned sealing connections seal against atmospheric pressure within the cavity 120 of the container body 110.

[0054] refer to Figure 4D and 4E And continue to refer to Figures 4A to 4C In one embodiment, when the container cap 110 is subsequently unscrewed from the container body 105 (i.e., by rotating the container cap 110 relative to the container body 105 in a direction opposite to direction 275b), the seat belt 210 is engaged between the end 140a of the sidewall 125 and the outer retaining ring 155 of the container body 105, causing the inner ridge 140 of the seat belt 210 to contact the outer retaining ring 155 of the container body 105. As a result of the container cap 110 being unscrewed from the container body 105, the inner ridge 240 of the seat belt 210 contacts the outer retaining ring 155 of the container body 105, applying tension to the separable section 230, thus separably attaching the container cap 110 to the seat belt 210. Furthermore, as a result, the rotational friction between the inner ridge 240 and the outer retaining ring 155 of the seat belt 210 causes relative rotation between the side wall 185 of the container lid 110 and the seat belt 210. This relative rotation causes the inclined surface 235a of the seat belt 210 to engage with the inclined surface 235b of the side wall 185 (in the inclined surface 235a-b). Figure 3A , 3C-1 (As shown in 3C-2 and 4A). As the container lid 110 continues to be unscrewed from the container body 105, it causes continued relative rotation between the side wall 185 of the container lid 110 and the seatbelt 210, causing the inclined surface 235b of the side wall 185 to slide along the inclined surface 235a of the seatbelt 210. This axially separates the container lid 110 from the seatbelt 210 by disconnecting the separable section 230 that severably connects the container lid 110 to the seatbelt 210, as shown in 3C-2 and 4A. Figure 4D As indicated by arrows 275c-d in the diagram. Once this axial separation occurs, as... Figure 4D As shown, the safety belt 210 is axially secured between the end 140a of the side wall 125 and the outer retaining ring 155 of the container body 105.

[0055] Furthermore, when the container cap 110 is unscrewed from the container body 105, the end 145a of the neck 130 is removed from the internal annular groove 270, causing the end 145a of the neck 130 to disengage in a sealing manner from one or both of the external spherical protrusion 260b of the internal retaining ring 255 and the internal ridge 265 of the container cap 110. This disengagement of the seal from the end 145a of the neck 130 to one or both of the external spherical protrusion 260b of the internal retaining ring 255 and the internal ridge 265 of the container cap 110 allows gas pressure within the cavity 120 of the container body 105 to be released. More specifically, gas pressure is allowed to flow: between the inner side of the internal retaining ring 255 of the container cap 110 and the end 145a of the neck 130 of the container body 105; between the inner ridge 265 of the container cap 110 and the outer side of the end 145a of the neck 130 of the container body 105; and through the gaps 205a-d formed along the container cap 110 (e.g., Figure 3B , 3C-1 (as shown in 3C-2); and through the gap 165a-d formed along the container body 105 (as shown in 3C-2). Figure 2C-1 , 2C-2 (As shown in 2D). The gas pressure is eventually released into the atmosphere near the end 195b of the side wall 185 of the container lid 110 and the end 145b of the neck 130 of the container body 105.

[0056] In several embodiments, a fluid (e.g., a beverage for human consumption) is disposed within the inner cavity 120 of the container body; in some embodiments, one or more of the aforementioned sealing engagements seal against atmospheric pressure within the inner cavity 120 of the container body 110; in several embodiments, when the container cap is removed from the container body 110, as... Figure 4D As shown, a person drinks fluid from the inner cavity 120.

[0057] like Figure 4E As indicated by arrows 275e-f, the container lid 110 can then be joined to the above. Figures 4A to 4C The same method is used to reattach and seal the container body 105, except that the seatbelt 210 is no longer connected to the rest of the container lid 110 (so it does not slip over the outer retaining ring 155, but remains axially engaged between the end 140a of the side wall 125 of the container body 105 and the outer retaining ring 155); therefore, the reattachment (and sealing) of the container lid 110 to the container body 105 will not be described in detail.

[0058] In several embodiments, a fluid (e.g., a beverage for human consumption) is disposed within the inner cavity 120 of the container body; in some embodiments, one or more of the aforementioned sealing engagements seal against atmospheric pressure within the inner cavity 120 of the container body 110; in several embodiments, when the container cap is removed from the container body 110, as... Figure 4D As shown, a person can drink fluid from the inner cavity 120 through the mouth 150; in several embodiments, after drinking some fluid, the person reattaches the container cap 110 to the container body 105, as... Figure 4E As shown, this prevents the remaining (unconsumed) fluid from overflowing from the inner cavity 120—in several embodiments, the person will again remove the container cap 110 from the container body 105 and drink the fluid from the inner cavity 120 through the mouth 150.

[0059] refer to Figure 5 And continue to refer to Figures 1 to 4C In one embodiment, container device 100 may be stacked with another container device that is substantially identical to container device 100, and therefore the same reference numerals are given except for the addition of an apostrophe “'”. Alternatively or additionally, container device 100' includes features / parts that are substantially identical to corresponding features / parts of container device 100', and these substantially identical features / parts have the same reference numerals except for the addition of an apostrophe “'”.

[0060] like Figure 5 As shown, when stacked in this manner, a portion of the container body 105' of the container device 100' engages with a portion of the container lid 110 of the container device 100. More specifically, the bottom wall 135' of the container body 105' is received by the central portion 216a of the top wall 190 of the container lid 110. Additionally, the end portion 140b' of the side wall 125' of the container body 105' is received by the outer surface 250a of the outer edge portion 216b of the top wall 190 of the container lid 110. For example, in embodiments where the end 140b' of the sidewall 125' of the container body 105' defines a radius of curvature R1' and the outer surface 250a of the outer edge portion 216b of the top wall 190 of the container lid 110 defines a radius of curvature R2 (the same as the radius of curvature R1'), the end 140b' of the sidewall 125' of the container body 105' matingly engages the outer surface 250a of the outer edge portion 216b of the top wall 190 of the container lid 110. As another example, in embodiments where the end 140b' of the sidewall 125' of the container body 105' defines a truncated cone shape and the outer surface 250a of the outer edge portion 216b of the top wall 190 of the container lid 110 defines a truncated cone shape, the end 140b' of the sidewall 125' of the container body 105' matingly engages the outer surface 250a of the outer edge portion 216b of the top wall 190 of the container lid 110.

[0061] In several embodiments, one or more embodiments of this application are provided, in whole or in part, as described and shown in application '332, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0062] In several embodiments, one or more embodiments described and illustrated in the '332 application are combined, in whole or in part, with one or more of the above-described embodiments and / or one or more other embodiments described and illustrated in the '332 application.

[0063] A first device has been disclosed. The first device typically includes: a container body defining an inner cavity, a first outer diameter, and a second outer diameter, the container body including: a first sidewall surrounding the inner cavity, the first sidewall defining a second outer diameter of the container body, the second outer diameter being the maximum outer diameter of the first sidewall; and a neck connected to and extending from the first sidewall, the neck defining the first outer diameter of the container body; and a container lid attached to and sealingly engaged with the neck of the container body; wherein the container lid is detachable from and reattached to the neck of the container body; wherein the first sidewall of the container body is truncated spherical or truncated ellipsoidal; and wherein the ratio of the first outer diameter to the second outer diameter is greater than or equal to 1:2. In one or more embodiments, the container lid defines an inner region, the container lid including: a second sidewall surrounding the inner region; and a top wall connected to the second sidewall. In one or more embodiments, the container lid further includes an inner ridge extending inward into the inner region, the inner ridge engaging an outer surface of the neck. In one or more embodiments, the container lid further includes an inner retaining ring extending from the top wall into the inner region, the inner retaining ring engaging an inner surface of the neck. In one or more embodiments, the internal retaining ring includes an external spherical protrusion that engages the inner surface of the neck. In one or more embodiments, the container cap further includes an internal ridge extending inward into an interior region, the internal ridge engaging the outer surface of the neck. In one or more embodiments, the container body defines a first three-dimensional profile at its end opposite the neck; and the top wall of the container cap defines a second three-dimensional profile adapted to matingly receive the first three-dimensional profile of the container body. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the first three-dimensional profile of the container body defines a first radius of curvature; and at least a portion of the second three-dimensional profile of the container cap defines a second radius of curvature, the second radius of curvature being the same as the first radius of curvature.

[0064] A first method is also disclosed. The first method generally includes: attaching a first container cap to the neck of a container body to achieve a sealing engagement between the first container cap and the neck of the container body; wherein the first container cap is detachable from and reattached to the neck of the container body; wherein the container body defines an inner cavity, a first outer diameter, and a second outer diameter, and the container body includes: a first sidewall surrounding the inner cavity, the first sidewall defining a second outer diameter of the container body, the second outer diameter being the maximum outer diameter of the first sidewall; and a neck connected to and extending from the first sidewall, the neck defining the first outer diameter of the container body; wherein the first sidewall of the container body is truncated spherical or truncated ellipsoidal; and wherein the ratio of the first outer diameter to the second outer diameter is greater than or equal to 1:2. In one or more embodiments, the first container cap defines an inner region, the first container cap including: a second sidewall surrounding the inner region; and a top wall connected to the second sidewall. In one or more embodiments, sealingly engaging the first container cap to the neck of the container body includes engaging an inner ridge of the first container cap with an outer surface of the neck; and the inner ridge extending inward and into the inner region. In one or more embodiments, sealingly engaging the first container cap to the neck of the container body includes engaging an internal retaining ring of the first container cap to an inner surface of the neck; and the internal retaining ring extends from the top wall and into an interior region. In one or more embodiments, sealingly engaging the internal retaining ring of the first container cap to the inner surface of the neck includes engaging an external spherical protrusion of the internal retaining ring to the inner surface of the neck. In one or more embodiments, sealingly engaging the first container cap to the neck of the container body further includes engaging an internal ridge of the first container cap to an outer surface of the neck; and the internal ridge extends inward and into an interior region. In one or more embodiments, the first method further includes stacking the container body onto the second container cap such that a first three-dimensional profile of the second container cap matches a second three-dimensional profile of the container body located at an end of the container body opposite the neck; wherein the second container cap is identical to the first container cap. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the second three-dimensional profile of the container body defines a first radius of curvature; and at least a portion of the first three-dimensional profile of the second container cap defines a second radius of curvature, which is the same as the first radius of curvature.

[0065] A second device is also disclosed. The second device typically includes: a container lid adapted to attach to and sealably engage with a container body, the container lid defining an interior region and an inner diameter, and the container lid including: a first sidewall surrounding the interior region, the first sidewall defining the inner diameter of the container lid; a top wall connected to the first sidewall; and an internal retaining ring extending from the top wall and into the interior region, the internal retaining ring including an external spherical protrusion adapted to engage an inner surface of the container body; and a container body; wherein, after the container lid is attached to and sealably engaged with the container body, the container lid is detachable from the container body and reattachable to the container body. In one or more embodiments, the container lid further includes an internal ridge extending inward into the interior region, the internal ridge being adapted to engage an outer surface of the container body. In one or more embodiments, the container body defines an interior cavity and an outer diameter, the container body including: a second sidewall surrounding the interior cavity, the second sidewall defining the outer diameter of the container body, the outer diameter being the maximum outer diameter of the second sidewall; and a neck connected to and extending from the second sidewall; and the container lid is adapted to seal onto the neck of the container body. In one or more embodiments, the second sidewall of the container body is truncated spherical or truncated ellipsoidal. In one or more embodiments, the ratio of the inner diameter of the container lid to the outer diameter of the container body is greater than or equal to 1:2. In one or more embodiments, the container body defines a first three-dimensional profile at its end opposite the neck; and the top wall of the container lid defines a second three-dimensional profile adapted to mateably receive the first three-dimensional profile of the container body. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the first three-dimensional profile of the container body defines a first radius of curvature; and at least a portion of the second three-dimensional profile of the container lid defines a second radius of curvature, which is the same as the first radius of curvature.

[0066] A second method is also disclosed. The second method typically includes: attaching a first container cap to a container body to achieve a sealing engagement between the first container cap and the container body, the first container cap defining an interior region and an inner diameter, and the first container cap including: a first sidewall surrounding the interior region, the first sidewall defining the inner diameter of the first container cap; a top wall connected to the first sidewall; and an internal retaining ring extending from the top wall and into the interior region, the internal retaining ring including an external spherical protrusion; wherein the first container cap is detachable from and reattached to the container body; and wherein sealingly engaging the first container cap to the container body includes engaging the external spherical protrusion with an inner surface of the container body. In one or more embodiments, sealingly engaging the first container cap to the container body further includes engaging an internal ridge of the first container cap with an outer surface of the neck; and the internal ridge extends inward and into the interior region. In one or more embodiments, sealingly engaging the first container cap to the container body includes sealingly engaging the first container cap to the neck of the container body; and the container body defines an inner cavity and an outer diameter, the container body including: a second sidewall surrounding the inner cavity, the second sidewall defining an outer diameter of the container body, the outer diameter being the maximum outer diameter of the second sidewall; and a neck connected to and extending from the second sidewall. In one or more embodiments, the second sidewall of the container body is a truncated spherical or truncated ellipsoidal shape. In one or more embodiments, the ratio of the inner diameter of the first container cap to the outer diameter of the container body is greater than or equal to 1:2. In one or more embodiments, the second method further includes: stacking the container body onto the second container cap such that a first three-dimensional profile of the second container cap matches a second three-dimensional profile of the container body located at an end of the container body opposite the neck; wherein the second container cap is identical to the first container cap. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the second three-dimensional profile of the container body defines a first radius of curvature; and at least a portion of the first three-dimensional profile of the second container cap defines a second radius of curvature, the second radius of curvature being identical to the first radius of curvature.

[0067] It should be understood that changes may be made to the foregoing without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0068] In one or more embodiments, elements and teachings of various exemplary embodiments may be combined wholly or partially in some or all of the exemplary embodiments. Furthermore, one or more elements and teachings of various illustrative embodiments may be omitted at least partially, or combined at least partially with one or more other elements and teachings of various illustrative embodiments.

[0069] Any spatial reference, such as "up", "down", "above", "below", "between", "bottom", "vertical", "horizontal", "tilted", "upward", "downward", "side to side", "left to right", "left", "right", "right to left", "upward to down", "bottom to top", "top", "bottom", "bottom to up", "top to down", etc., is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the specific direction or position of the above structure.

[0070] In one or more embodiments, although different steps, processes, and procedures are described as performing different actions, one or more steps, processes, or procedures may also be performed simultaneously or sequentially in different orders. In one or more embodiments, steps, processes, or procedures may be combined into one or more steps, processes, or procedures. In one or more embodiments, one or more operational steps in each embodiment may be omitted. Furthermore, in some cases, some features of this disclosure may be employed without correspondingly using other features. Additionally, one or more embodiments or variations thereof disclosed above and in '332 application may be combined, in whole or in part, with any one or more other embodiments or variations thereof described above and in '332 application.

[0071] Although one or more embodiments have been disclosed in detail above and in '332 application, the disclosed embodiments are exemplary and not restrictive, and those skilled in the art will readily understand that many other modifications, alterations, and substitutions are possible in the embodiments without departing from the novel teachings and advantages of this disclosure in essence. Therefore, all such modifications, alterations, and substitutions are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims. In the claims, the device plus function clause is intended to cover not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures as described herein. Furthermore, the applicant expressly intends not to invoke 35 U.S.SC §112(f) to impose any limitation on any of the claims herein, unless the claims expressly use the term "device" and the associated function.

Claims

1. A container device, comprising: A container body defining an inner cavity, a first outer diameter, and a second outer diameter, the container body comprising: A first sidewall surrounds the inner cavity, defining a second outer diameter of the container body, the second outer diameter being the maximum outer diameter of the first sidewall, and the first sidewall also defining axially opposed first and second ends; A neck, connected at a first end to and extending from a first sidewall, defines a first outer diameter of the container body; and The bottom wall, which is connected to and extends from the first sidewall at the second end opposite the neck; and A container lid, which is attached to and seals against the neck of the container body, the container lid comprising: Second sidewall; The top wall connected to the second side wall; The second sidewall and the top wall together define the internal area of ​​the container lid; The container lid also includes: An inner ridge extending inward and entering the inner region, which engages with the outer surface of the neck; and An internal retaining ring extends from the top wall and into the interior area, engaging with the inner surface of the neck; The top wall includes a central portion and an outer edge portion that connects the central portion to the second side wall; The outer edge portion includes the radially inward-facing outer surface adjacent to the central portion; The outer surface facing inward and the central portion together define the outer recess of the container lid that is opposite to the inner region. The container lid can be detached from the neck of the container body and reattached to the neck of the container body. Wherein, at least a portion of the second end of the first sidewall is adjacent to at least a portion of the bottom wall, such that the adjacent portions of the first sidewall and the bottom wall together define a first continuous three-dimensional profile of the container body. Wherein, at least a portion of the radially inward outer surface is adjacent to at least a portion of the central portion, such that the radially inward outer surface and the adjacent portion of the central portion together define a second continuous three-dimensional profile of the container lid. Wherein, when the container lid is detached from the neck of the container body, the second continuous three-dimensional profile of the container lid is adapted to match and receive the first continuous three-dimensional profile of the container body, such that: The bottom wall of the container body joins the central portion of the top wall of the container lid; and The second end of the first sidewall of the container body engages with the radially inward outer surface of the top wall of the container lid; The first sidewall of the container body is truncated spherical or truncated ellipsoidal; and The ratio of the first outer diameter to the second outer diameter is greater than or equal to 2:

3.

2. The container apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The internal retaining ring includes an external spherical protrusion that engages with the inner surface of the neck.

3. The container device according to claim 1, in, At least a portion of the first continuous three-dimensional contour of the container body defines a first radius of curvature; and Wherein, at least a portion of the second continuous three-dimensional profile of the container lid defines a second radius of curvature, which is the same as the first radius of curvature.

4. The container device according to claim 1, wherein, The external thread extends circumferentially around the outer surface of the neck.

5. The container device according to claim 1, wherein, The internal thread extends circumferentially around the inner surface of the second sidewall of the container lid.

6. The container device according to claim 5, wherein, The external thread extends circumferentially around the outer surface of the neck.

7. The container device according to claim 6, wherein, The sealing engagement of the container cap and the neck includes the engagement of the internal threads of the container cap with the external threads of the neck of the container body.

8. The container device of claim 1, further comprising a safety belt secured between a first sidewall of the container body and an external retaining ring, the external retaining ring extending circumferentially around the neck and radially outward from the neck.

9. The container device according to claim 8, wherein, The seat belt is detachably attached to the second side wall at the end opposite to the top wall.

10. The container device according to claim 1, wherein, The central portion of the top wall of the container lid is flat.

11. A method for stacking container devices, comprising: The first container lid is attached to the neck of the container body so that the first container lid is sealed to the neck of the container body. and The container body is stacked on the second container lid, such that the first continuous three-dimensional contour of the second container lid receives the second continuous three-dimensional contour of the container body in a matching manner, and the second container lid is the same as the first container lid. The first container lid can be detached from the neck of the container body and reattached to the neck of the container body. The container body defines an inner cavity, a first outer diameter, and a second outer diameter. The container body includes: A first sidewall surrounds the inner cavity, defining a second outer diameter of the container body, the second outer diameter being the maximum outer diameter of the first sidewall, and the first sidewall also defining axially opposed first and second ends; A neck connected to and extending from a first sidewall, the neck defining a first outer diameter of the container body; and The bottom wall is connected to and extends from the first sidewall at the second end opposite to the neck; The first and second container lids each include: Second sidewall; The top wall connects to the second side wall, such that the second side wall and the top wall together define the interior area. The top wall includes a central portion and an outer edge portion that connects the central portion to the second side wall. The outer edge portion includes the radially inward-facing outer surface adjacent to the central portion. The radially inward-facing outer surface and the central portion together define an outer recess opposite the inner region, and At least a portion of the radially inward-facing outer surface is adjacent to at least a portion of the central portion; The internal ridge extends into the inner region; and An internal retaining ring extends from the top wall and into the interior area; Attaching the first container cap to the neck of the container body to achieve a sealing engagement between the first container cap and the neck of the container body includes: Join the inner ridge of the first container lid to the outer surface of the neck; and Engage the inner retaining ring of the first container lid with the inner surface of the neck; The radially inward outer surface of the second container lid and the adjacent portion of the central part together define the first continuous three-dimensional profile of the second container lid. Wherein, at least a portion of the second end of the first sidewall is adjacent to at least a portion of the bottom wall, such that the adjacent portions of the first sidewall and the bottom wall together define a second continuous three-dimensional profile of the container body. The process of stacking the container body onto the second container lid, such that the first continuous three-dimensional contour of the second container lid matches and receives the second continuous three-dimensional contour of the container body, includes: Join the bottom wall of the main container body to the center portion of the top wall of the second container lid; and The second end of the first sidewall of the container body is joined to the radially inward outer surface of the top wall of the second container lid; The first sidewall of the container body is truncated spherical or truncated ellipsoidal; and The ratio of the first outer diameter to the second outer diameter is greater than or equal to 2:

3.

12. The stacking method according to claim 11, wherein, Engaging the inner retaining ring of the first container cap to the inner surface of the neck includes engaging the outer spherical protrusion of the inner retaining ring of the first container cap to the inner surface of the neck.

13. The stacking method according to claim 11, in, At least a portion of the second continuous three-dimensional contour of the container body defines a first radius of curvature; and Wherein, at least a portion of the first continuous three-dimensional profile of the second container lid defines a second radius of curvature, which is the same as the first radius of curvature.

14. The stacking method according to claim 11, in, An internal thread extends circumferentially around the inner surface of the second sidewall of the container lid, defining circumferentially opposed and axially spaced ends; and The external thread extends circumferentially around the outer surface of the neck, defining circumferentially opposite and axially spaced ends.

15. The stacking method according to claim 14, further comprising: The end of the internal thread of the container cap furthest from the top wall is engaged below the end of the external thread of the neck furthest from the first side wall; and Rotate the container lid relative to the container body to screw the container lid onto the container body.

16. The stacking method according to claim 11, wherein, The central portion of the top wall of the second container lid is flat.

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