Replacement container with holder and replacement container

Abstract

To provide a replacement container having a simpler structure while enabling a user to easily replace a container holder, and a replacement container with a holder combining such a replacement container and a holder.SOLUTION: A replacement container with a holder comprises: a replacement container 11 made of a synthetic resin which is an elastic material and having an outer flange 14 outwardly provided around a container opening 11b, a fitting region 11d which is an annular region where a peripheral wall 11a is connected to the outer flange, and a first protrusion 15 disposed in the peripheral wall to protrude outward on a side opposite to the outer flange with respect to the fitting region; and a holder 13 configured to fit around the replacement container so as to detachably hold the container. The holder has a body part 13a configured to be placed over the replacement container.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a replacement container with a holder and a replacement container, and more particularly to a replacement container with a holder that includes a container and a holder to which the container can be attached in a removable manner, and a replacement container for reusing such a holder. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there are containers for storing contents and holders that can support the containers from the outside (Patent Document 1). These containers are also called replacement containers because they can be removed from the holder after the contents are removed and a new container containing the contents can be attached. Furthermore, while replacement containers must be repeatedly removed and attached, one holder can be used multiple times, which saves resources required to manufacture the holder and allows the contents to be handled hygienically by replacing the replacement container after one use.

[0003] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 19, such a conventional replacement container is attached to a conventional holder by its pressing portion (23) elastically deforming radially inward. This allows the replacement container to be attached to the holder without a lid or other covering from the outside. Furthermore, unlike a screw structure, there is no need to rotate the replacement container or holder. This allows users to easily replace conventional replacement containers. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-195484 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Such conventional replacement containers require a double structure consisting of a generally cylindrical peripheral wall portion (21) and a pressure portion hanging down from the outside of the peripheral wall portion. Therefore, when manufacturing such double-structure replacement containers using, for example, synthetic resin, complex molds must be used for molding them in large quantities.

[0006] Furthermore, the production of such double-walled replacement containers requires a larger amount of synthetic resin than the production of, for example, single-walled replacement containers, which means that disposing of these replacement containers after consumption is likely to place a greater burden on the global environment.

[0007] Therefore, in light of these challenges, the present invention aims to provide a replacement container that is easy for users to replace but has as simple a structure as possible, and a replacement container with a holder that combines such a replacement container with a holder. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] (1) The present invention provides a replacement container with a holder, which is formed from a synthetic resin, which is an elastic material, has an outward flange that is provided outward around the container opening, and a peripheral wall that has a fitting area that is a ring-shaped area that is continuous with the outward flange, and a first protrusion that protrudes outward on the peripheral wall on the opposite side of the outward flange from the fitting area, and a holder configured to fit over the replacement container and hold it in a removable manner, wherein the holder has a main body configured to cover the replacement container.

[0009] That is, the mating area of ​​the replacement container is sandwiched between the outward flange and the first protrusion. Even when an external force is applied to pull the replacement container toward its opening, the holder fitted onto the replacement container catches on the first protrusion, locking the replacement container in the opposite direction. Furthermore, because the replacement container is made of an elastic material, the first protrusion elastically deforms inward, allowing the replacement container to be both engaged and released. In this way, the replacement container with holder of the present invention allows users to easily replace the replacement container, despite its simple structure.

[0010] Furthermore, since the mating area is continuous with the outward flange, the user can easily determine the support position for the replacement container by aligning the part of the holder that fits onto the replacement container with the end face of the outward flange on the mating area side.

[0011] Furthermore, because the main body of the holder covers the replacement container, the user can grasp the main body with the fingers of one hand while removing the contents of the replacement container with the fingers of the other hand. Since the user does not directly grasp the replacement container, even if the replacement container is thin, the replacement container, which is made of an elastic material, is less likely to deform due to the force of the fingers. Furthermore, by changing the thickness of the replacement container during manufacturing, the degree of elastic deformation of the first convex portion can be adjusted. Furthermore, by making the replacement container thin, the amount of synthetic resin used can be reduced, thereby reducing the burden on the global environment.

[0012] Moreover, since the replacement container is detachably attached to the holder, the holder can be reused by simply replacing the replacement container even after the contents have run out.

[0013] (2) The main body portion may have an inward flange that is provided around the main body opening, which is the opening of the main body portion, and that protrudes inward. The replacement container may be configured to fit into the main body opening, with the outward flange overlapping the inward flange and the inner peripheral edge of the inward flange fitting into the fitting area.

[0014] That is, the inward flange is provided around the opening of the main body, and the replacement container fits into the holder so that the outward flange and the inward flange overlap, allowing the replacement container to freely move in and out of the main body. Furthermore, the replacement container can be easily positioned relative to the holder by simply inserting it until the outward flange overlaps the inward flange. In this way, the replacement container with holder of the present invention allows the user to easily replace the replacement container.

[0015] (3) The replacement container may be configured so that the container opening is closed by a seal attached to the outward flange.

[0016] That is, the replacement container with holder of the present invention can prevent dust, dirt, etc. from entering the inside of the replacement container by closing the lid with a seal. Furthermore, the seal is a simple closing means, and the replacement container can be easily covered with a lid.

[0017] Furthermore, by attaching the seal to the outward flange, the outward flange can serve both as the end surface on which the seal is attached and as the positioning device when the replacement container is supported by the holder, thereby simplifying the structure of the replacement container with holder.

[0018] (4) The first protrusions may be arranged at substantially equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0019] That is, because the first protrusions are provided in multiple locations, the force applied to each first protrusion when the holder locks the replacement container can be dispersed to multiple locations, eliminating the need for excessive strength of each first protrusion. Furthermore, the elastic deformation of each first protrusion can be minimized when locking and unlocking the replacement container. This allows users to easily replace replacement containers. Furthermore, the replacement container can be used without excessive force being applied, and the replacement container can be manufactured with a thin wall.

[0020] Furthermore, since these multiple first protrusions are arranged at approximately equal intervals, force is applied evenly to each first protrusion, allowing the holder to support and lock the replacement container in a balanced manner.

[0021] (5) Furthermore, a second convex portion that protrudes outward and has a protruding height smaller than that of the first convex portion may be arranged in the mating region, and the inward flange may have a plurality of recesses that are recessed outward on the inner peripheral edge, and at least some of the plurality of recesses may be arranged so as to face the second convex portion when the holder is holding the replacement container.

[0022] That is, the mating region is sandwiched between the outward flange and the first convex portion, which has a protruding height greater than that of the second convex portion, and the inner peripheral edge of the inward flange fits therein. The second convex portion is disposed in this mating region. At least some of the recesses are disposed so as to face outward from the second convex portion, allowing the second convex portion to fit into the corresponding recess. In this case, each second convex portion may fit partway into its corresponding recess, or may fit all the way into its respective recess. In this way, the fit of each second convex portion into its corresponding recess limits the rotation of the replacement container relative to the holder. Therefore, as long as the user holds the holder, the replacement container with holder of the present invention allows the user to efficiently scrape out the contents with their fingers without rotating the replacement container.

[0023] (6) The second protrusions may be arranged at substantially equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0024] That is, because the second protrusions are provided in multiple locations, the force applied to each second protrusion when the holder restricts the rotation of the replacement container can be distributed to multiple locations, eliminating the need for excessive strength for each second protrusion. Furthermore, because these multiple second protrusions are provided at approximately equal intervals, the force is applied evenly to each second protrusion, allowing the holder to restrict the rotation of the replacement container in a balanced manner. This allows the replacement container to be used without excessive force being applied, and also allows the replacement container to be manufactured with a thin wall.

[0025] (7) The main body may be a single-walled cylindrical body made of synthetic resin, with an outer surface exposed to the outside and a cavity formed inside between it and the replacement container.

[0026] In other words, because a cavity is formed between the main body and the replacement container, the holder-equipped replacement container can be made lighter than if that cavity were filled with the material of the holder. In addition, compared to filling that cavity with synthetic resin, for example, the amount of synthetic resin used can be reduced, thereby easing the burden on the global environment.

[0027] In addition, since the outer surface is exposed to the outside, the design of the replacement container with holder can be enhanced by decorating the outer surface. Moreover, since the holder can be reused, the decoration on the outer surface can be visible to users for a long time.

[0028] (8) The present invention provides a replacement container formed from a synthetic resin, which is an elastic material, having an outward flange arranged outward around the container opening, a peripheral wall having a mating area which is an annular area continuous with the outward flange, and a first protrusion which protrudes outward on the peripheral wall on the opposite side of the outward flange from the mating area.

[0029] That is, the mating area of ​​the replacement container is sandwiched between the outward flange and the first protrusion. Even when an external force is applied to pull the replacement container toward its opening, the member attempting to hold the replacement container will catch on the first protrusion, locking the replacement container in the opposite direction. Furthermore, because the replacement container is made of an elastic material, the first protrusion can elastically deform inward, thereby both engaging and releasing the replacement container. Thus, the replacement container of the present invention has a simple structure, yet allows users to easily replace it. [Effects of the Invention]

[0030] The present invention provides a replacement container that is easy for users to replace and has as simple a structure as possible, and a replacement container with a holder that combines such a replacement container with a holder.Furthermore, the present invention provides a replacement container that uses less synthetic resin and can reduce the burden on the local environment. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] 1A is a perspective view of a seal, a replacement container, and a main body according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the seal, replacement container, and main body assembled together. [Figure 2] 1A is a perspective view of a cap part showing a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view of a replacement container with a holder showing the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] (a) is a front view of the replacement container shown in Figure 1. (b) is a plan view of the replacement container. (c) is a side view of the replacement container rotated 18° counterclockwise in a plan view. (d) is a bottom view of the replacement container in the orientation shown in (c). [Figure 4] 1. (a) The left half shows the outer shape of the replacement container shown in FIG. 1 as seen from the front, and the right half shows the end face of a vertical cross section as seen from the front. (b) is a partially enlarged view of this end face. [Figure 5] (a) is a plan view of the main body shown in Figure 1, (b) is a front view of the main body, and (c) is a bottom view of the same. [Figure 6] 1. (a) The left half shows the outer shape of the main body shown in FIG. 1 as seen from the front, and the right half shows the end face of a vertical cross section as seen from the front. (b) is a partially enlarged view of this end face. [Figure 7] The left half shows the outer shape of the holder-equipped replacement container shown in FIG. 2(b) as viewed from the front, and the right half shows the end face of the vertical cross section as viewed from the front. [Figure 8] (a) is a partial enlarged view of the longitudinal cross section of the replacement container with holder shown in Figure 7, with the seal and cap portion omitted. (b) is a partial enlarged view of the same in a state rotated 18° counterclockwise around the holder axis from the state shown in (a). [Figure 9] 2(a) is a cross-sectional end view of the replacement container with holder shown in FIG. 2(b), and FIG. 2(b) is a partially enlarged view of this end view. [Figure 10] 1A is a plan view of a replacement container according to a first modification of the first embodiment of the present invention, in which the left half shows the outer shape of the replacement container shown in FIG. 1A in a front view, and the right half shows the end face of a vertical cross section taken along line AA′ shown in FIG. 1A, and in which FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the replacement container. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional end view of a replacement container with holder according to a first modification of the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 1A is a plan view of a replacement container according to a second modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention, in which the left half shows the outer shape of the replacement container shown in FIG. 1A in a front view, and the right half shows the end face of a vertical cross section taken along line AA′ shown in FIG. 1A, and in which FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the replacement container. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional end view of a replacement container with holder according to a second modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14]The left half shows the outer shape of a holder-equipped replacement container according to a third modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the front, and the right half shows the end face of a vertical cross section of the same as viewed from the front. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a replacement container showing a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] (a) is a plan view of the replacement container shown in Figure 15. (b) The left half shows the outer shape of the replacement container shown in (a) when viewed from the front, and the right half shows the end face of a vertical cross section taken along line AA' in (a). (c) The same replacement container shows the end face of a vertical cross section taken along line BB' in (a). [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a replacement container showing a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] 18(a) is a plan view of the replacement container shown in Fig. 17. (b) The left half shows the outer shape of the replacement container shown in (a) when viewed from the front, and the right half shows the end face of a vertical cross section when viewed from the front. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a conventional replacement container and holder. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] [First embodiment] A first embodiment of the replacement container with holder and the replacement container of the present invention is illustrated using FIGS. 1 to 14. In FIG. 1(a), 11 is a replacement container. The inside of the replacement container 11 is filled with a liquid, semi-solid, powder, or other content. A seal 12 is then affixed to the replacement container 11, thereby sealing the replacement container 11. The replacement container 11 is attached to the main body 13a of the holder 13 by fitting its bottom into the main body opening 13b. When the replacement container 11 is attached, the main body 13a covers the replacement container 11. At this time, the main body 13a covers the replacement container 11 radially inward. Furthermore, because the replacement container 11 is not fixed to the main body 13a, it can enter and exit through the main body opening 13b. In this way, the replacement container 11 is detachably attached to the holder 13. In the figure, the arrow U indicates the upward direction of the replacement container 11, and the arrow D indicates the downward direction.

[0033] The replacement container 11 has a bottom, a cylindrical peripheral wall 11a extending upward from the bottom, and a container opening 11b, which is an opening at the top. It also has an outward flange 14 extending outward from the container opening 11b. The outward flange 14 is formed in a brim-like shape with a circular outer periphery. The replacement container 11 has an axis in the vertical direction, and its cross sections at each height are all approximately circular. The replacement container 11 is made of a synthetic resin such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The bottom, peripheral wall 11a, and outward flange 14 are integrally formed by molding the synthetic resin material approximately simultaneously. For example, they are formed by vacuum forming, a molding method in which a single sheet of material is adhered to a mold using a vacuum. They may also be formed by injection molding.

[0034] Seal 12 is in the form of a sheet with a circular edge, and is attached by adhering the edge of its lower surface to the upper surface of outward flange 14. This allows the container opening 11b of replacement container 11 to be closed. Seal 12 may be adhered with an adhesive or may be welded by heat or the like. Before container opening 11b is closed with seal 12, the inside of replacement container 11 is filled with contents such as cosmetics, medicines, food, etc. in liquid, paste, semi-solid, powder, granular, etc. form. A user can open container opening 11b by peeling seal 12 from outward flange 14 and remove the contents filled in replacement container 11.

[0035] The seal 12 is formed from a single-layer or multi-layer synthetic resin sheet. For example, when the seal 12 is attached to the top surface of the flange 14 by thermal welding, the seal 12 has a multi-layer structure in which a sealant layer, an intermediate layer, and a substrate layer are laminated in this order from the side where the seal 12 is attached to the flange 14. The sealant layer is made of polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, etc.; the intermediate layer is made of ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer, metal foil, or vapor-deposited film made of aluminum or other materials; and the substrate layer is made of oriented films such as biaxially oriented nylon film, biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate film, or biaxially oriented polypropylene film. A vapor-deposited film on which a metal or inorganic material such as silica is vapor-deposited as the substrate layer may be used to form a sheet with barrier properties without the intermediate layer. The seal 12 may also be made of paper material in addition to synthetic resin.

[0036] FIG. 1(b) is a perspective view showing a state in which the replacement container 11, whose container opening 11b is closed by the seal 12, is attached to the main body 13a of the holder 13.

[0037] FIG. 2(a) shows a perspective view of the cap portion 13c of the holder 13. The cap portion 13c has a top plate and a cylindrical cap portion 13d extending downward from the top plate. A female thread 13e is formed on the inside of the cylindrical cap portion 13d. Also, in the perspective view of FIG. 2(b), reference numeral 101 denotes a replacement container with a holder obtained by assembling the cap portion 13c with the main body portion 13a to which the replacement container 11 is attached, as shown in FIG. 1(b). Therefore, the replacement container 11 with the sticker 12 attached is stored inside the main body portion 13a and the cap portion 13c. The holder 13 refers to the combination of the main body portion 13a and the cap portion 13c. The main body portion 13a and the cap portion 13c are joined vertically by threading the female thread 13e into a male thread 13f formed on the upper outer surface of the main body portion 13a.

[0038] 1(b) , the combination of the seal 12, the replacement container 11, and the holder 13 without the cap 13 may be called a replacement container with holder 101. In this case, only the main body 13a constitutes the holder 13.

[0039] FIG. 3(a) shows the front of the replacement container 11. FIG. 3(b) shows a plan view of the replacement container 11. In the figure, arrow L indicates the leftward direction of the replacement container 11, and arrow R indicates the rightward direction. Arrow F indicates the forward direction of the replacement container 11, and arrow B indicates the rearward direction. FIG. 3(c) shows a side view of the same replacement container 11 in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b) rotated 18° counterclockwise in a plan view. FIG. 3(d) shows a bottom view of the replacement container 11 oriented as shown in FIG. 3(c).

[0040] The area of ​​the peripheral wall 11a of the replacement container 11 that continues downward from the outward flange 14 is called the cylindrical container portion 11c. This cylindrical container portion 11c forms an annular shape centered on the container axis C1, which is the axis of the replacement container 11, and is formed in a roughly cylindrical shape with the upper diameter slightly larger than the lower diameter. Of the entire peripheral wall 11a, the portion other than the cylindrical container portion 11c is inclined so that the diameter increases toward the top. A step with a downward surface is formed at the boundary between the cylindrical container portion 11c and the portion other than the cylindrical container portion 11c.

[0041] A plurality of first protrusions 15 protruding radially outward are disposed on the lower portion of the container tubular portion 11c. Each first protrusion 15 is formed in a roughly semi-cylindrical shape with a cross section that is small in diameter at both ends in the circumferential direction about the container axis C1 and large in diameter in the circumferential center, bulging outward.

[0042] Additionally, a plurality of second protrusions 16 protruding radially outward are disposed on the upper portion of the container tubular portion 11c, i.e., adjacent to and above each of the first protrusions 15. Each of the second protrusions 16 has a smaller protrusion height than the first protrusions 15, and is formed in a roughly semi-cyanate cross section that bulges outward, with both ends in the circumferential direction about the container axis C1 being smaller in diameter and the center in the circumferential direction being larger in diameter.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 3(a) to 3(d), for example, ten first protrusions 15 and ten second protrusions 16 are provided per replacement container 11. These ten pairs of vertically adjacent first protrusions 15 and second protrusions 16 are arranged at the same pitch around the container axis C1. Therefore, one pair and the other pair adjacent to that pair are arranged at a pitch angle of 36° around the container axis C1. That is, the first protrusions 15 and the second protrusions 16 are all arranged at equal circumferential intervals. The angle of rotation of the replacement container 11 in FIGS. 3(c) and 3(d) (18°) corresponds to half of this pitch angle of 36°.

[0044] It is preferable that at least three first protrusions and three second protrusions are provided per replacement container 11. By providing three or more first protrusions and three or more second protrusions, when the replacement container 11, which is circular in plan view, is divided into a half semicircle and the other half semicircle, one set of first protrusions and second protrusions can be provided on one semicircle and the remaining two sets of first protrusions and second protrusions can be provided on the other semicircle. This allows the multiple protrusions to be arranged in a balanced manner, allowing the inward flange 17 of the holder 13 (described later) to lock the replacement container 11 facing downward and limit rotation. A first modification of this embodiment, in which three sets of first protrusions and second protrusions are provided, will be described later.

[0045] FIG. 4(a) shows the front of the replacement container 11, with the left half of the front showing the outer shape and the right half showing the end face of a longitudinal cross section. The circled portion of FIG. 4(a) is shown enlarged in FIG. 4(b). The first protrusion 15 and the second protrusion 16 shown in FIG. 4(b) both protrude rightward from the container axis C1. As shown in this figure, there is a protrusion height difference d between the protrusion heights of the first protrusion 15 and the second protrusion 16. The upper portion of the first protrusion 15 is inclined from the outer surface of the second protrusion 16 to the outermost surface of the first protrusion 15, forming an inclined surface 15a that gradually increases in diameter downward.

[0046] A mating region 11d is formed at the top of the cylindrical container portion 11c as an annular region sandwiched in the vertical direction between the outward flange 14 and each of the first protrusions 15. In other words, each of the first protrusions 15 is disposed on the opposite side of the mating region 11d from the outward flange 14. Each of the second protrusions 16 is disposed in the mating region 11d.

[0047] 5(a), (b), and (c) respectively show a plan view, a front view, and a bottom view of the main body 13a of the holder 13. These cross sections are formed in a substantially circular shape centered on the holder axis C2, which is the axis of the holder 13. The main body 13a is provided around the main body opening 13b and has an inward flange 17 that protrudes inward. That is, the inward flange 17 is formed in the shape of a brim that protrudes from the top of the main body 13a toward the holder axis C2. The main body 13a and the cap 13c of the holder 13 are both made of synthetic resin such as polypropylene, polyethylene (PE), or polyethylene terephthalate, and are formed by, for example, injection molding.

[0048] The inner peripheral edge 17a of the inward flange 17 is formed in a generally annular shape centered on the holder axis C2 and has a plurality of recesses 18 recessed outward. Although some of the recesses 18 are labeled with the reference numeral 18 in Figure 5(a), the recesses 18 are actually disposed over the entire circumferential direction of the inner peripheral edge 17a. Each recess 18 is formed in a generally arc shape such that both ends in the circumferential direction about the holder axis C2 are closer to the holder axis C2, and the center of the recess, which is the center in the circumferential direction, is farther from the holder axis C2 and recessed outward.

[0049] As shown in Figures 5(a) and 5(c), for example, 30 recesses 18 are provided per main body portion 13a. These 30 recesses 18 are arranged at equal pitches and continuously in the circumferential direction around the holder axis C2. Therefore, one recess 18 and another recess 18 adjacent to it are arranged at a pitch angle of 12° around the holder axis C2. In other words, the recesses 18 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. In Figures 5(a) and 5(c), the recesses 18 are arranged so that the leftmost recess 18 faces directly left and the rightmost recess 18 faces directly right.

[0050] In contrast, as described above, the pairs of first and second protrusions 15, 16 are arranged at a pitch angle of 36°, which is a multiple of 12°. This allows the user to select from multiple angles for the angle of inclination of the replacement container 11 relative to the front-to-back or left-to-right direction of the holder 13 when fitting the replacement container 11 into the main body opening 13b. The user does not need to precisely fit the replacement container 11 at a specific angle. That is, by rotating the replacement container 11 clockwise or counterclockwise by up to 12° as needed from the state in which each first protrusion 15 initially touches the inward flange 17, the ten first and second protrusions 15, 16 and the ten recesses 18 mate with each other. This allows the user to easily fit the replacement container 11.

[0051] FIG. 6(a) shows the front of the main body 13a of the holder 13, with the left half of the front showing the outer shape and the right half showing the longitudinal cross-sectional end face. FIG. 6(b) shows an enlarged view of the circular area of ​​FIG. 6(a) centered on the inward flange 17. The solid line in FIG. 6(b) represents the recess center 18a, which is the circumferential center of the recess 18, on the inner peripheral edge 17a of the inward flange 17. That is, the recess center 18a is the furthest from the holder axis C2. In contrast, the imaginary line in FIG. 6(b) represents the non-recessed portion 17b of the inner peripheral edge 17a, where the recess 18 is not provided. That is, the imaginary line represents the end face when rotated 6°, which is 1 / 2 of one pitch angle of 12°, around the holder axis C2 from the solid line state. In this case, the non-recessed portion 17b is closer to the holder axis C2 than the recess center 18a.

[0052] 7 shows the front view of the holder-equipped replacement container 101 equipped with a cap portion 13c. The left half of the front view shows the exterior shape, and the right half shows the end face of a vertical cross section. In the holder-equipped replacement container 101, the replacement container 11 is fitted into the main body opening 13b from above, with the outward flange 14 overlapping the inward flange 17. In the holder-equipped replacement container 101, the replacement container 11 and the holder 13 are fitted together with their respective mating regions 11d and inner peripheral edges 17a facing radially. Because the mating region 11d of the replacement container 11 is formed in a generally annular shape centered on the container axis C1 and the inner peripheral edge 17a of the holder 13 is formed in a generally annular shape centered on the holder axis C2, the container axis C1 and the holder axis C2 coincide with the common axis C, which is the axis of the holder-equipped replacement container 101.

[0053] In the holder-equipped replacement container 101, the main body 13a is a cylindrical body with a single structure, and its outer surface is exposed to the outside. In addition, since the diameter of the main body 13a is larger than the diameter of the replacement container 11, the main body 13a forms a cavity E between itself and the replacement container 11.

[0054] FIG. 8(a) is a partially enlarged view of the circular portion of FIG. 7, centered on the outward flange 14 and the inward flange 17, with the seal 12 and cap portion 13c omitted. Since FIG. 8(a) is a partially enlarged view of the front view of FIG. 7, the second protrusion 16 protrudes directly to the right in the mating region 11d. The first protrusion 15 also protrudes directly to the right. Furthermore, a recess 18 is recessed directly to the right on the inner peripheral edge 17a.

[0055] On the other hand, Figure 8(b) shows an end surface of the replacement container 11 and main body 13a rotated counterclockwise by 18°, which is half the 36° pitch angle of the first protrusion 15 and the second protrusion 16, about the common axis C from the state shown in Figure 8(a). This 18° angle corresponds to 1.5 times the 12° pitch angle of the recess 18. Therefore, at this end surface position, the second protrusion 16 is not provided in the mating region 11d, and the inner peripheral edge 17a facing this mating region 11d is a non-recess 17b. Furthermore, the first protrusion 15 is not provided on the underside of the container tubular portion 11c.

[0056] 8(a) and 8(b) show a state in which the inward flange 17 is fitted into the fitting region 11d and the replacement container 11 is attached to the holder 13. As shown in FIG. 8(a), the distance from the common axis C to the inner peripheral edge 17a of the inward flange 17 is shorter than the distance from the common axis C to the outermost side of each first protrusion 15. Therefore, when the inward flange 17 is fitted between the outward flange 14 and each first protrusion 15, the inward flange 17 abuts against the inclined surface 15a of each first protrusion 15, and even if the replacement container 11 attempts to come out of the holder 13 upward, the inward flange 17 prevents the inclined surface 15a from coming out of the holder 13 downward. This reduces the likelihood of the replacement container 11 coming out of the holder 13.

[0057] On the other hand, the replacement container 11 is made of synthetic resin, which is an elastic material, and the dimensions of the replacement container 11 and holder 13 are determined so that when the replacement container 11 undergoes elastic deformation, the distance from the container axis C1 to the outermost surface of each first protrusion 15 is shorter than the distance from the holder axis C2 to the inner peripheral edge 17a. As a result, when the user applies force, each first protrusion 15 undergoes elastic deformation inward, passing inside the inner peripheral edge 17a and allowing the replacement container 11 to be removed upward from the holder 13.

[0058] Figure 9(a) shows the end face of a cross section of the replacement container 11 and the main body 13a taken along the dashed line in Figures 8(a) and 8(b). Figure 9(b) shows a partial enlargement of Figure 9(a). The inner ring in Figures 9(a) and 9(b) represents the mating region 11d of the replacement container 11, and the outer ring represents the inward flange 17 of the main body 13a. The end face of the vertical section of the replacement container 11 and the main body 13a taken along the line AA' in Figure 9(a) corresponds to the end face shown in the enlarged view of Figure 8(a), and the end face of the vertical section taken along the line BB' corresponds to the end face shown in the enlarged view of Figure 8(b).

[0059] 9(a) and 9(b) illustrate an embodiment in which 30 recesses 18 are provided, similar to FIGS. 5(a) and 5(c). Also, an embodiment in which 10 second protrusions 16 are provided, similar to FIG. 1(a). Each second protrusion 16 is combined with every other one of the 30 recesses 18. Although not shown in the figures, 10 first protrusions 15 are provided adjacent to and below each of the second protrusions 16.

[0060] 9(a) and 9(b) show a state in which the inward flange 17 is fitted into the fitting region 11d and the replacement container 11 is attached to the holder 13. At this time, as shown in FIG. 9(b), the distance from the common axis C to each non-recessed portion 17b is shorter than the distance from the common axis C to the outermost surface of each second protrusion 16. Therefore, when the inward flange 17 is fitted between the outward flange 14 and each first protrusion 15, each second protrusion 16 abuts against the irregularities of the inner peripheral edge 17a, and even if the replacement container 11 attempts to rotate around the common axis C, the inward flange 17 stops the protrusion 16 in the opposite direction. This reduces rotation of the replacement container 11 relative to the holder 13.

[0061] With the above-described configuration, the engagement region 11d of the replacement container 11 is sandwiched between the outward flange 14 and the first protrusion 15 in the vertical direction. Even when an external force is applied to pull the replacement container 11 toward the container opening 11b, the inward flange 17 of the main body 13a fitted onto the replacement container 11 catches on the inclined surface 15a of the first protrusion 15, locking the replacement container 11 in the opposite, downward direction. This reduces the likelihood of the replacement container 11 coming off the holder 13. Furthermore, because the replacement container 11 is made of an elastic material, the user can apply force to elastically deform the first protrusion 15 inward and pass it over the inside of the inner peripheral edge 17a of the inward flange 17, thereby engaging and releasing the replacement container 11. In this way, the replacement container 11 and the replacement container with holder 101 can be easily replaced by the user, even though the replacement container 11 has a simple structure.

[0062] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4(b), since the mating area 11d is continuous with the outward flange 14, the user can support the replacement container 11 in a fixed position by aligning the inward flange 17 of the holder 13 with the lower end face of the outward flange 14.

[0063] Furthermore, because the main body 13a of the holder 13 covers the replacement container 11, the user can grasp the main body 13a with the fingers of one hand while removing the contents of the replacement container 11 with the fingers of the other hand. Since the user does not directly grasp the replacement container 11, even if the replacement container 11 is thin, the replacement container 11, which is made of an elastic material, is less likely to be deformed by the force of the fingers. Furthermore, by changing the thickness of the replacement container 11 during manufacturing, the degree of elastic deformation of the first protrusion 15 and the second protrusion 16 can be adjusted. Furthermore, by making the replacement container 11 thin, the amount of synthetic resin used can be reduced, thereby reducing the burden on the global environment.

[0064] Moreover, since the replacement container 11 is detachably attached to the holder 13, the holder 13 can be reused by replacing the replacement container 11 even after the contents have run out.

[0065] 5(a) and 8(a) and (b), the inward flange 17 is provided around the main body opening 13b, and the outward flange 14 overlaps the inward flange 17. Then, as shown in FIG. 1(a), the replacement container 11 fits into the holder 13. This allows the replacement container 11 to freely move in and out of the main body 13 from above. Furthermore, the replacement container 11 can be supported in a fixed position in the holder 13 simply by inserting it into the main body opening 13b until the outward flange 14 overlaps the inward flange 17. As such, the replacement container 11 and the replacement container with holder 101 allow the user to easily replace the replacement container 11.

[0066] Furthermore, the replacement container 11 and the replacement container with holder 101 can prevent dust, dirt, and the like from entering the inside of the replacement container 11 by closing the lid with the seal 12. The seal 12 is a simple closing means, and the replacement container 11 can be easily covered with the lid. Furthermore, by attaching the seal 12 to the outward flange 14, the outward flange 14 can serve both as a surface on which the upper surface of the seal 12 is attached and as a positioning role when the replacement container 11 is supported by the holder 13, as described above. This allows the structure of the replacement container with holder 101 to be simplified.

[0067] Furthermore, when the first protrusions 15 are provided at multiple locations as in this embodiment, the force applied to each first protrusion 15 when the holder 13 locks the replacement container 11 downward using the inward flanges 17 can be dispersed to multiple locations, eliminating the need for excessive strength for each first protrusion 15. Furthermore, when engaging and releasing the replacement container 11, the elastic deformation of each first protrusion 15 required to pass inside the inner peripheral edge 17a can be minimized. These features allow the user to easily replace the replacement container 11. Furthermore, the replacement container 11 can be used without excessive force being applied, and the replacement container 11 can be manufactured with a thin wall.

[0068] Furthermore, when these multiple first protrusions 15 are arranged at approximately equal intervals, as in this embodiment, force is applied evenly to each first protrusion 15, allowing the holder 13 to support and engage the replacement container 11 in a balanced manner.

[0069] Furthermore, the mating region 11d is sandwiched between the outward flange 14 and the first protrusion 15, which has a protruding height greater than that of the second protrusion 16, and the inner peripheral edge 17a of the inward flange 17 fits therein. The second protrusion 16 is disposed in this mating region 11d. Furthermore, for example, as in this embodiment, 10 of the 30 recesses 18 are disposed so as to face outwardly with the 10 second protrusions 16, thereby allowing the second protrusions 16 to fit into the corresponding recesses 18. At this time, each second protrusion 16 may fit partway into its corresponding recess 18, or may fit all the way into its deepest portion. Thus, the fit of each second protrusion 16 into its corresponding recess 18 limits rotation of the replacement container 11 around the common axis C relative to the holder 13. Therefore, as long as the user holds the holder 13, the contents can be efficiently scraped out with the fingers without rotating the replacement container 11.

[0070] Furthermore, because the second protrusions 16 are provided at multiple locations, the force applied to each second protrusion 16 when the holder 13 restricts the rotation of the replacement container 11 can be distributed to multiple locations, eliminating the need for excessive strength of each second protrusion 16. Furthermore, to strengthen the grip of each recess 18, it is not necessary to have each second protrusion 16 deeply recessed into each recess 18. Furthermore, because the multiple second protrusions 16 are provided at approximately equal intervals, force is applied evenly to each second protrusion 16, allowing the holder 13 to restrict the rotation of the replacement container 11 in a balanced manner. These features allow the replacement container 11 to be used without excessive force being applied, and the replacement container 11 can be manufactured with a thin wall.

[0071] In addition, when each second protrusion 16 is arranged adjacent to and above each first protrusion 15 in a one-to-one correspondence, as in the case of the first and second protrusions 15, 16 of this embodiment, the first protrusion 15 can first be passed through each of 10 recesses 18 out of the 30 recesses 18 of the holder main body 13a, and then each second protrusion 16 can be inserted successively into these 10 recesses 18 immediately thereafter.

[0072] Furthermore, because a cavity E is formed between the main body 13a and the replacement container 11, the holder-equipped replacement container 101 can be made lighter than if that portion were filled with the material of the holder 13. In addition, compared to filling that portion with synthetic resin, for example, the amount of synthetic resin used can be reduced, thereby reducing the burden on the global environment. Furthermore, because the outer surface is exposed to the outside, the design of the holder-equipped replacement container 101 can be improved by decorating the outer surface. Moreover, because the holder 13 can be reused, the decoration on the outer surface can be visible to users for a long time.

[0073] [First Modification] FIGS. 10(a)-(c) and 11 show a first modified example of the first embodiment of the holder-equipped replacement container and replacement container of the present invention. The replacement container 11 in this first modified example has three first protrusions 15, and each first protrusion 15 has a second protrusion 16 disposed adjacent thereto. FIGS. 10(a), 10(b), and 10(c) show a plan view, a front view, and a perspective view of the replacement container 11 as viewed from diagonally above, respectively. The left half of FIG. 10(b) shows the front view, and the right half shows the longitudinal cross-sectional end face of the replacement container 11 and the main body 13a of the holder-equipped replacement container 101, taken along the dashed line AA' in FIG. 10(a). Similar to FIG. 9(a), FIG. 11 shows the transverse cross-sectional end face of the replacement container 11 and the main body 13a of the holder-equipped replacement container 101, taken along the plane indicated by the dashed line in FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b). Fig. 11 shows the replacement container 11 shown in Fig. 10(a) to (c). Three pairs of first and second protrusions 15, 16 are arranged at a pitch angle of 120° around a common axis C.

[0074] The other configurations are the same as those of the holder-equipped replacement container and replacement container of this embodiment described above.

[0075] By providing the first and second protrusions 15, 16 in three locations, as in the holder-equipped replacement container and replacement container of this first modified example, when the replacement container 11 of Fig. 11 is divided into a front half and a rear half, for example, two sets of first and second protrusions 15, 16 can be provided in the front half and one set of first and second protrusions 15, 16 can be provided in the rear half. This allows the multiple protrusions 15, 16 to be arranged in a balanced manner. Furthermore, the inward flange 17 of the holder 13 can lock the replacement container 11 facing downward in a balanced manner and limit rotation.

[0076] [Second Modification] Figures 12 and 13 show a second modified example of the first embodiment of the holder-equipped replacement container and replacement container of the present invention. The replacement container 11 in this second modified example has 12 first protrusions 15, and each first protrusion 15 has a second protrusion 16 disposed adjacent thereto below. Figures 12(a), 12(b), and 12(c) show a plan view, a front view, and a perspective view of the replacement container 11 as viewed from diagonally above, respectively. The left half of Figure 12(b) shows the outer shape as viewed from the front, and the right half shows the end face of a vertical cross section taken along the indication line AA' shown in Figure 12(a).

[0077] 9(a) and 11, Fig. 13 shows a cross-sectional end view of the replacement container 11 and main body 13a of the holder-equipped replacement container 101 in a plane equivalent to the plane indicated by the dashed line in Fig. 8(a) and (b). The arrangement of the 12 pairs of first and second protrusions 15, 16 arranged on the replacement container 11 in Fig. 13 differs from the arrangement of the 12 pairs of first and second protrusions 15, 16 shown in Fig. 12. In the main body 13a shown in Fig. 13, 30 recesses 18 are arranged at a pitch angle of 12° around the holder axis C2.

[0078] The other configurations are the same as those of the holder-equipped replacement container and replacement container of this embodiment described above.

[0079] In the case of the holder-equipped replacement container 101 shown in FIG. 13, the 30 recesses 18 are arranged at a uniform pitch angle of 12°. Meanwhile, the pairs of first and second protrusions 15, 16 are not spaced evenly, but are spaced at intervals that are multiples of the 12° pitch angle of the recesses 18. The 12 pairs of first and second protrusions 15, 16 are arranged at positions that correspond to 12 of the 30 recesses 18. Therefore, even in the case shown in FIG. 13, when fitting the replacement container 11 into the main body opening 13b, the angle of inclination of the replacement container 11 relative to the front-to-back or left-to-right direction of the holder 13 can be selected from multiple angles. Furthermore, the user does not need to precisely fit the replacement container 11 at a specific angle. That is, by rotating the replacement container by an angle of up to 12° in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction as needed from the state where each first protrusion 15 initially touches the inward flange 17, the twelve first and second protrusions 15, 16 can be fitted into the twelve recesses 18. This allows the user to easily fit the replacement container 11.

[0080] [Third Modification] Figure 14 shows a third modified example of the first embodiment of the holder-equipped replacement container and replacement container of the present invention. The left half of Figure 14 shows a front view of the holder-equipped replacement container 101, and the right half shows a vertical cross-sectional end view of the front view. In this third modified example, a packing material 19 is sandwiched vertically between the cap portion 13c and the seal 12 of the holder-equipped replacement container 101. This packing material 19 is made of a synthetic resin material. For example, a multilayer material in which a cushioned low-foam polyethylene sheet is covered with a thin plastic film by lamination is used.

[0081] The packing material 19 is not bonded to the cap portion 13c or the seal 12, but is fitted inside the cap portion 13c. That is, from bottom to top, the outward flange 14 of the replacement container 11 is placed above the inward flange 17 of the main body portion 13a, the seal 12 is affixed to the upper surface of the outward flange 14, the packing material 19 is placed above the seal 12, and the packing material 19 and the cap portion 13c are engaged. At this time, when the cap portion 13c is rotated relative to the main body portion 13a, the female thread 13e on the inside of the cap cylindrical portion 13d and the male thread 13f on the upper outside of the main body portion 13a are tightened, the packing material 19 is pressed from above and below and compressed.

[0082] The other configurations are the same as those of the holder-equipped replacement container and replacement container of this embodiment described above.

[0083] When packing material 19 is pressed from above and below and compressed, the repulsive force can press seal 12 against outward flange 14. This further strengthens the sheet properties provided by seal 12 attached to replacement container 11, and more reliably prevents the contents of replacement container 11 from drying out, deteriorating in quality, or becoming tangled with foreign matter during storage, transportation, display, etc. Furthermore, even if seal 12 is removed after opening, packing material 19 can instead maintain the sheet properties.

[0084] [Second embodiment] A second embodiment of the replacement container with holder and replacement container of the present invention will be illustrated using Figures 15 and 16. In the perspective view of Figure 15, 21 is a replacement container. Figure 16(a) shows a plan view of the replacement container 21. The left half of Figure 16(b) shows an outline drawing of the replacement container 21 in plan view, and the right half shows the end face of a vertical cross section when cut along indication line AA' shown in Figure 16(a). Figure 16(c) shows the end face of a vertical cross section when cut along indication line BB' shown in Figure 16(a). Although not shown, 201 is a replacement container with holder, and the replacement container 21 with a sheet attached is stored in the replacement container with holder 201.

[0085] Of the peripheral wall 21a of the replacement container 21, the area continuing downward from the outward flange 24 is called the container cylindrical portion 21c. This container cylindrical portion 21c forms an annular shape centered on the container axis C1, which is the axis of the replacement container 21, and is formed in a roughly cylindrical shape with the upper diameter slightly larger than the lower diameter. Of the entire peripheral wall 21a, the portion other than the container cylindrical portion 21c is inclined so that the diameter increases toward the top. A step with a downward surface is formed at the boundary between the container cylindrical portion 21c and the portion other than the container cylindrical portion 21c.

[0086] The first protrusions 25 are arranged at the bottom of the container tubular portion 21c and protrude radially outward. Each first protrusion 25 has a generally semi-cylindrical cross section that bulges outward, with both ends in the circumferential direction around the container axis C1 being smaller in diameter and the center being larger in diameter.

[0087] Additionally, second protrusions 26 are disposed on the upper portion of the container tubular portion 21c, protruding radially outward. Each second protrusion 26 has a smaller protrusion height than the first protrusions 25, a smaller diameter at both circumferential ends centered on the container axis C1, a larger diameter at the circumferential center, and an outwardly bulging, generally semi-cylindrical cross section. In this embodiment, the positions of the first protrusions 25 and the second protrusions 26 are different in plan view.

[0088] The other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0089] In the example of this embodiment, the position of the first protrusion 25 and the position of the second protrusion 26 are different in plan view, so even if the first protrusion 25 is initially passed through the recess of the holder body of the holder-equipped replacement container 201, the position of the second protrusion 26 in plan view does not necessarily coincide with the position of the recess. Therefore, in order to fit the second protrusion 26 into the recess, the replacement container 21 may be rotated relative to the holder body after the first protrusion 25 has passed through the recess.

[0090] [Third embodiment] A third embodiment of the replacement container with holder and replacement container of the present invention will be illustrated using Figures 17 and 18. In the perspective view of Figure 17, 31 is a replacement container. Figure 18(a) shows a plan view of the replacement container 31. In Figure 18(b), the left half shows an outline view of the replacement container 31 in a plan view, and the right half shows an end face of a vertical cross section in a plan view. Although not shown, 301 is a replacement container with holder, and the replacement container 31 with a sheet attached is stored in the replacement container with holder 301.

[0091] Of the peripheral wall 31a of the replacement container 31, the area continuing downward from the outward flange 34 is called the container cylindrical portion 31c. This container cylindrical portion 31c forms an annular shape centered on the container axis C1, which is the axis of the replacement container 31, and is formed in a roughly cylindrical shape with the upper diameter slightly larger than the lower diameter. Of the entire peripheral wall 31a, the portion other than the container cylindrical portion 31c is inclined so that the diameter increases toward the top. A step with a downward surface is formed at the boundary between the container cylindrical portion 31c and the portion other than the container cylindrical portion 31c.

[0092] A first protrusion 35 protruding radially outward is disposed at the bottom of the container tubular portion 31c. Each first protrusion 35 is formed in a roughly semi-cylindrical cross section, with a small diameter at both circumferential ends centered on the container axis C1 and a large diameter at the circumferential center, bulging outward. In this embodiment, a second protrusion for preventing rotation as exemplified in the first and second embodiments is provided, and only a first protrusion 25 for preventing removal is disposed.

[0093] The other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0094] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0095] For example, the body and cap of the holder may be joined by means other than threading a female screw onto a male screw. For example, the cap may be made of an elastic material and slightly expanded to fit over the body.

[0096] Furthermore, the cylindrical container portion of the replacement container does not necessarily have to be formed in an approximately cylindrical shape with a difference in diameter between the top and bottom, and may be formed in a cylindrical shape with no difference in diameter between the top and bottom, for example, as long as it does not interfere with the molding of the replacement container.

[0097] In addition, although an example has been given in which more recesses than first convex portions and more recesses than second convex portions are arranged, the number of recesses may match the number of first convex portions or the number of second convex portions as long as the positions of the recesses match the positions of the first convex portions and the second convex portions in a planar view.

[0098] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, an example has been shown in which the same number of first convex portions and second convex portions are arranged alternately in a planar view, but in addition to these first or second convex portions, a second convex portion may be additionally arranged above a first convex portion, and a first convex portion may be additionally arranged below a second convex portion. [Industrial Applicability]

[0099] The replacement container or holder-equipped replacement container according to the present invention can be filled with contents such as cosmetics, medicines, food, etc. in liquid, paste, semi-solid, powder, granules, etc. The user can then remove and use these contents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 11, 21, 31 Replacement container 11d Engagement area 12 Seals 13 Holder 13a Main body 13b Main body opening 13c Cap 14, 24, 34 Outward flange 15, 25, 35 First convex part 15a Slope 16, 26, 36 Second convex part 17 Inward flange 17a inner edge 17b Non-recessed 18 Recess 18a Center of recess 19 Packing material 101, 201, 301 Replacement container with holder

Claims

1. a replacement container formed from a synthetic resin that is an elastic material, having an outward flange that is provided outward around a container opening, a peripheral wall having a fitting region that is an annular region continuous with the outward flange, and a first protrusion that protrudes outward on the peripheral wall on the opposite side of the outward flange from the fitting region; and a holder configured to fit over the replacement container and detachably hold it; The holder has a body portion configured to fit over the replacement container. A replacement container with a holder.

2. The main body portion has an inward flange that is provided around the main body opening, which is the opening of the main body portion, and that protrudes inward, The replacement container is configured to fit into the main body opening, with the outward flange overlapping the inward flange and the inner peripheral edge of the inward flange fitting into the fitting region.

2. The replacement container with holder according to claim 1.

3. The replacement container is configured to close the container opening with a seal attached to the outward flange.

2. The replacement container with holder according to claim 1.

4. The plurality of first protrusions are arranged at substantially equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

2. The replacement container with holder according to claim 1.

5. a second protrusion that protrudes outward and has a protrusion height smaller than that of the first protrusion is disposed in the mating region; The inward flange has a plurality of recesses recessed outward on the inner peripheral edge, At least some of the recesses among the plurality of recesses are arranged so as to face the second protrusions when the holder is in a state where the replacement container is held.

5. The replacement container with holder according to claim 2, wherein the replacement container has a holder.

6. The plurality of second protrusions are arranged at substantially equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

6. The replacement container with holder according to claim 5.

7. The main body is a single-walled cylindrical body made of synthetic resin, with an outer surface exposed to the outside and a cavity formed inside between it and the replacement container.

2. The replacement container with holder according to claim 1.

8. The container is made of synthetic resin, which is an elastic material, and has an outward flange that is provided outward around the container opening, a peripheral wall that has a fitting region that is an annular region that is continuous with the outward flange, and a first protrusion that protrudes outward is arranged on the peripheral wall on the opposite side of the outward flange from the fitting region. A replacement container characterized by:

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