A container for dispensing an appropriate amount of fluid solid.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2026092760
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2021-12-02
- Filing Date
- 2026-06-02
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-01
Smart Images
Figure 2026139754000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a container for storing and dispensing flowable solids (e.g., powders or granules). More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a container for dispensing consistent and accurate doses of flowable solids. [Summary of the Invention]
[0002] Some embodiments are directed to a container for dispensing flowable solids, the container comprising a body defining an interior space, the interior space comprising a storage space, an outlet passage, a metering chamber in communication with the storage space and the outlet passage, and a closure for sealing the container, the closure comprising: a lid rotatably coupled to the body, the lid comprising a lid configured to rotate about a first axis from a closed position to an open position; and a plunger rotatably coupled to the lid within an upper quarter of a height of the container, the plunger configured to move from a sealed position to an unsealed position along a direction of a second axis when the lid is rotated about the first axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis, the plunger extending into the outlet passage and forming a seal within a lower quarter of the height of the container when the plunger is in the sealed position, wherein the container is configured to dispense a dose of flowable solid when the plunger is in the unsealed position and the container is at least partially inverted, each dose having an equal volume.
[0003] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the container further comprises a partition separating the storage space from the outlet passage.
[0004] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the partition extends below a bottom of the plunger when the plunger is in the sealed position.
[0005] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the metering chamber is configured to receive one dose of the flowable solid.
[0006] In any of the various embodiments described herein, when the container is at least partially inverted and the plunger is in an unsealed position, only a portion of the fluid solid is dispensed.
[0007] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the storage space is configured to accommodate at least 10 doses of a fluid solid.
[0008] In any of the various embodiments described herein, when the plunger is in the unsealed position, a path is formed through the plunger to the outlet from the appropriate volume dispensing chamber.
[0009] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the plunger includes a sealing base configured to contact the wall of the outlet passage when the plunger is in the sealing position, so that the appropriate dispensing chamber is sealed.
[0010] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the width of the outlet passage increases along a second axis such that, when the plunger is in an unsealed position, the outlet path is defined by the outlet passage and the plunger.
[0011] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the body includes a stopper configured to restrict the rotation of the lid when the lid is in the closed position.
[0012] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the lid includes an opening configured to engage with a stopper when the lid is in the open position.
[0013] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the lid rotates from a closed position to an open position when a force is applied to the lid.
[0014] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the container further comprises a base attached to the main body, the base defining the floor of the storage space and the floor of the dispensing chamber.
[0015] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the base further comprises a partition extending into the storage space such that the partition restricts the flow of fluid solids from the storage space when the container is at least partially inverted.
[0016] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the container is recyclable in a single recycling stream.
[0017] Some embodiments relate to a container for dispensing a fluid solid, comprising a body, the body having an internal space comprising a storage space, an outlet passage, and a dispensing chamber, the dispensing chamber comprising an internal space communicating with the storage space and the outlet passage, a partition separating the storage space from the outlet passage, and a closure for sealing the container, the closure comprising a lid and a plunger, wherein in response to a force applied to the lid, the lid is configured to move from a closed position to an open position, the plunger moving upward from a sealed position to an unsealed position to expose the outlet passage, and when the outlet passage is exposed and the container is in an inverted orientation, the container is configured to dispense only a single dose through the outlet.
[0018] In any of the various embodiments described herein, when the plunger is in the sealing position, the plunger forms a seal within the lower quarter of the height of the container.
[0019] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the lid is configured to rotate from a closed position to an open position about a first axis, and the plunger is rotatably coupled to the lid within the upper quarter of the height of the container.
[0020] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the force is a downward force, and the plunger is configured to move upward along a second axis perpendicular to a first axis in response to the downward force applied to the lid.
[0021] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the container further comprises a base detachably coupled to a body, the base defining a storage space and a floor of a metering chamber.
[0022] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the base comprises a partition wall extending from the base into the storage space when the base is coupled to the body.
[0023] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the plunger comprises a protrusion that contacts a wall of an outlet passage to seal the metering chamber when the plunger is in a sealing position, and when the plunger is in a non-sealing position, a sealing base is spaced apart from the wall of the outlet passage to form a path through which a dose is dispensed.
[0024] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the plunger comprises a flange that contacts a side surface of a lid when the lid is in an open position.
[0025] In any of the various embodiments described herein, the plunger is integral with the lid, and the lid and the plunger are configured to move upward in response to an upward force applied to the lid. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of the present specification, illustrate the present disclosure and, together with the description, explain the principles of the present disclosure and further serve to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the present invention. [Figure 1] It is a perspective view of a container according to some embodiments. [Figure 2] It is an exploded view of the container of Figure 1. [Figure 3A] It is a cross-sectional view of the container of Figure 1 in a closed position, with a flowable solid inside the container. [Figure 3B] It is a cross-sectional view of the container of Figure 1 in an open position, with a flowable solid inside the container. [Figure 3C]It is a diagram showing the inclination of the container of Figure 1 for separating a dose from the remainder of a flowable solid. [Figure 3D] It is a diagram showing the inversion of the container of Figure 1 for dispensing the dose shown in Figure 3C into a drinking container. [Figure 4] A flowchart for dispensing a single dose of a flowable solid is shown. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0027] Flowable solids (e.g., powders and granules) may be used in beverage concentrates, sugar, and the like. Flowable solids are often sold in bulk in large containers. Not only is it difficult to accurately remove a fixed amount of flowable solid from these containers, but doing so can be cumbersome and time-consuming. For example, to accurately remove a single dose of powder, a user may be required to use a scoop to remove the powder. However, the scoop may remove an excessive amount of powder (the user needs to level the powder to obtain an accurate amount or dose of powder). Alternatively, the scoop may remove too little powder (the user needs to scoop again to obtain an accurate amount or dose of powder). Or alternatively, to achieve an accurate dose with a single scoop, the user may have to scoop an excess amount and then level the powder using another implement or the user's finger. These scoops are often stored inside the container itself, and thus may become covered by powder or other substances.
[0028] Other dispensers may allow users to dispense powder without a scoop, but they offer little control over the amount dispensed. For example, a container with a spout (e.g., a sugar dispenser) can dispense powder by pouring, but there is no reliable way to control the amount of sugar dispensed, apart from estimating how much has been poured. Also, the accuracy of the pour changes with the flow rate of the powder as the volume of powder remaining in the container decreases. Furthermore, the user may have to touch the spout to open it and allow the powder to flow.
[0029] Furthermore, the large containers mentioned above may not be easily transportable for use during transit. Existing transit applications often utilize individual packets, which are typically disposable packets containing small amounts of powder. However, these packets can become soiled and, in some cases, easily tear and spill. Disposable packets also generate waste after each use.
[0030] The embodiments described herein overcome these and other challenges, among other advantages, by providing a container that consistently dispenses accurate doses of powder without measurement, regardless of the amount of powder in the container, and keeps the internal dispensing mechanism clear when not in use, such as during transport, which may involve pressing in the bag or other unintended changes in orientation. To facilitate such transport, the container may be small enough to be carried in a pocket, purse, etc., for use on the go. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein allow for transport and storage of the container in any orientation when not in use.
[0031] As shown throughout the figures, some embodiments relate to containers for storing, portioning, and dispensing fluid solids. A fluid solid is a volume of material formed from solid fragments or lumps of material such that the volume of material is fluid (for example, when poured or when tilted sufficiently). Examples include powders or granules (e.g., granulated sugar or beverage concentrates).
[0032] For example, a container may include a closure and an internal space. A partition may separate the internal space into a storage space and a passage. The passage may connect the storage space to an outlet. The closure may include a lid and a plunger that can move from a closed position to an open position. The plunger may be rotatably mounted on the lid and extend deep into the passage. When the closure is moved from the closed position to the open position, the lid may rotate, and the plunger may move upward to open a passage through which the fluid solid can flow. The container may be used to dispense a fixed volume of powder through the outlet, regardless of the amount of powder remaining in the storage space. A partition may create an internal shape of the container that allows for the dispensing of a fixed volume of powder. The plunger may prevent fluid solid material from unintentionally entering the outlet passage when the lid is closed, in order to help maintain the accuracy of subsequent doses. The container may be small enough to be carried, or large enough to hold multiple doses of fluid solid, eliminating the need for single-dose packets.
[0033] A container according to some embodiments (e.g., container 100) may be designed for use in transit and may include a dispensing chamber (e.g., dispensing chamber 120) that contains a fixed volume of fluid solid (e.g., fluid solid 600) that is naturally refilled from storage space. However, since the dispensing chamber is refilled by gravity and the outlet is near the top, the fluid solid 600 must travel through a long passage (e.g., outlet passage 130) to be dispensed. If any fluid solid 600 unintentionally enters the outlet passage 130 before dispensing, the size of the dose may be altered. To prevent the fluid solid 600 from entering the outlet passage 130 prematurely or unintentionally during use in transit (e.g., when the container may be pushed or bumped during transport, such as in a wallet or backpack), the container may include a sealing mechanism controlled from the top of the container to seal the depths of the passage. The sealing mechanism may operate automatically in conjunction with the opening and closing of the lid, as will be described in more detail below.
[0034] Figure 1 shows a container 100 for dispensing powder. The container 100 may include a body 200, a lid 300, and a base 400. The walls 204 of the body 200 may include an internal space. The lid 300 may be rotatably coupled to the body 200 and may rotate from a closed position (as shown in Figure 1) to an open position. When the lid 300 is in the open position (see Figure 3B), the container 100 may include an outlet 150 defined by the body 200 and the lid 300. Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the container 100. Figures 3A to 3D show cross-sectional views of the container 100 along line 3-3. Figure 3A shows the container 100 with the lid 300 in the closed position, Figure 3B shows the container 100 with the lid 300 in the open position, Figure 3C shows the container 100 in the tilted position, and Figure 3D shows the container 100 in the inverted position, dispensing the powder into the drinking container 700.
[0035] As shown in Figure 2, the container 100 may include a body 200, a lid 300, a base 400, and a plunger 500. The container 100 and its components may include a height dimension extending in the Y direction, a length dimension extending in the X direction, and a width dimension extending in the Z direction.
[0036] Referring to Figures 2 and 3A, the body 200 may include a hole 202, a wall 204, a partition wall 206, a partition wall 208, a ledge 210, a lower portion 212, a stopper 214, and a rim 216. The body 200 may include a pair of holes 202 formed in the wall 204 and located on both sides of the body 200. The body 200 may include a lower portion 212 configured to fit with the base 400. Figures 3A to 3D show a cross-sectional view of the container 100 taken only along line 3-3. As shown in Figures 3A to 3D, the container 100 may include an internal space separated into a storage space 110, a dispensing chamber 120, and a passage 130.
[0037] The main body 200 may include partitions (e.g., partitions 206 and 208). The partitions (e.g., partitions 206 and 208) may be formed integrally with the wall 204 to form the main body 200. In some embodiments, partition 206 is oriented vertically (i.e., extending in the Y direction), and partition 208 is oriented such that partitions 206 and 208 form an acute angle A within the storage space 110. In some embodiments, the angle A is between 30 and 75 degrees (e.g., 45 and 65 degrees). In some embodiments, the angle A is approximately 65 degrees. Partition 206 may be positioned so that when the container 100 is at least partially tilted or inverted, partition 206 restricts the flow of fluid solid 600 (e.g., powder or granules) from the storage space 110 toward the passage 130. In some embodiments, the partition 206 restricts the flow of the fluid solid 600, so that when the lid 300 is in the open position, only one dose of the fluid solid 600 is dispensed from the container 100 each time the container 100 is inverted (i.e., rotated beyond approximately 115 degrees).
[0038] The storage space 110 may communicate with the outlet 150 via the passage 130. The storage space 110 may be configured to store powder or granules (for example, the fluid solid 600 shown in Figures 3A to 3D). In some embodiments, the storage space 110 has a volume of about 25 mL to about 150 mL (for example, about 35 mL to about 125 mL or about 50 mL to about 100 mL). In some embodiments, the storage space 110 has a volume of about 50 mL. In some embodiments, the storage space 110 is sized to accommodate at least 10 doses of the fluid solid 600. In some embodiments, the storage space 110 has a volume of at least 10 times the volume of the dispensing chamber 120.
[0039] The main body 200 may include a ledge 210 positioned to cooperate with the plunger 500 to seal the storage space 110 and the dispensing chamber 120 from the passage 130. The dispensing chamber 120 may hold a single dose of the fluid solid 600. The dispensing mechanism and structure may operate similarly to the dispensing mechanism and structure of a container described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 193,811, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For example, the dispensing mechanism and structure may operate similarly to the storage space 115, introduction passage 121, and dispensing chamber 122 described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 193,811. In some embodiments, as detailed below, the ledge 210 contacts the plunger 500 when the lid 300 is in the closed position to seal the storage space 110 and the dispensing chamber 120.
[0040] The body 200 may include a pair of retaining elements 214 that project inward from the walls 204 of the body 200. In some embodiments, the retaining elements 214 are positioned on both sides of the body 200 in the Z direction. In some embodiments, as will be described in more detail below, the retaining elements 214 are configured to engage with the holes 314 of the lid 300 when the lid 300 is in the open position.
[0041] The body 200 may include a rim 216 that projects inward from the wall 204 and extends at least partially around the top of the body 200. The rim 216 may be positioned to stop the rotation of the lid 300 when the lid 300 is rotated from a closed position to an open position. For example, in some embodiments, as will be described in more detail below, the flange 306 contacts the rim 216 to restrict the rotation of the lid 300.
[0042] The container 100 may include a lid 300 coupled to a body 200. As shown in Figure 2, the lid 300 may include a projection 302, a slot 304, an upper flange 306, an opening 308, a wall 310, a grip 312, a hole 314, a lower flange 316, and a front flange 318. The lid 300 may include a pair of projections 302 extending from the wall 310 and forming a pivot axis along the axis 1. The projections 302 may be located on both sides of the lid 300 along the axis 1. In some embodiments, the projections 302 engage with a hole 202 in the body 200. In some embodiments, the hole 202 is formed through both sides of the outer wall 204 of the body 200. In some embodiments, the hole 202 is located along the axis 1.
[0043] The lid 300 may be rotatably coupled to the body 200. In some embodiments, a projection 302 extends through a hole 202, rotatably coupling the lid 300 to the body 200. In some embodiments, the lid 300 rotates about axis 1 from a closed position (e.g., as shown in Figure 3A) to an open position (e.g., as shown in Figure 3B). The upper flange 306 and the lower flange 316 may each extend outward from the outer surface of the lid 300. In some embodiments, the upper flange 306 and the lower flange 316 extend from the lid 300 in a first direction, and the rim 216 extends from the body 200 in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The rim 216 may be positioned between the upper flange 306 and the lower flange 316 in the Y direction to stop the rotation of the lid 300. In some embodiments, when the lid 300 is in the closed position (for example, as shown in Figure 3A), the bottom surface of the rim 216 contacts the top surface of the lower flange 316 to prevent further rotation of the lid 300. In some embodiments, when the lid 300 is in the open position (for example, as shown in Figure 3B), the bottom surface of the upper flange 306 contacts the top surface of the rim 216 to prevent further rotation of the lid 300.
[0044] When the lid 300 is rotated from the closed position to the open position, the hole 314 may be releasably coupled to the retaining arm 214. In some embodiments, the hole 314 is releasably coupled to the retaining arm 214 to hold the lid 300 in the open position, allowing the user to dispense the fluid solid 600 without having to hold the lid 300 in the open position. In some embodiments, the hole 314 may be released from the retaining arm 214 by applying a downward force to the lid 300 adjacent to the flange 318. The lid 300 may include a pair of slots 304. In some embodiments, the slots 304 are located on both sides of the lid 300 to accommodate the rod 508 of the plunger 500.
[0045] The container 100 may include a base 400 that is coupled to or integrally formed with the body 200. In some embodiments, the base 400 is detachably coupled to the body 200 to allow the container 100 to be refilled. In some embodiments, the base 400 is fixedly coupled to the body 200. In some embodiments, the base 400 is integrally formed with the body 200. The base 400 may allow the container 100 to stand upright and improve the stability of the container 100 when not in use. The base 400 may include a wall 402 that connects the base 400 to the body 200. In some embodiments, the wall 402 surrounds the lower portion 212 of the body 200 when the body 200 is coupled to the base 400. The base 400 may include a surface 401 that defines the floor of the storage space 110 and the dispensing chamber 120. In some embodiments, the base 400 includes a partition wall 404 extending upward from the surface 401 and into the storage space 110. In some embodiments, the partition wall 404 extends higher than the bottom of the partition wall 206. The height and position of the partition wall may affect the size of the volume of the fluid solid. The partition wall 404 may be spaced apart from the partition wall 206 in the X direction. In some embodiments, the partition wall 404 extends across the entire width of the storage space 110. In some embodiments, the partition wall 404 includes a first side surface 406 that extends substantially vertically and a second side surface 408 that is angled relative to the first side surface 406. The angle of the second side surface 408 may help ensure that the fluid solid 600 does not stick behind the partition wall 404 when the container 100 dispenses the powder.
[0046] The container 100 may include a plunger 500 configured to seal the storage space 110 and the appropriate dispensing chamber 120 from the passage 130. In some embodiments, the plunger is located at least partially within the passage 130. A partition wall 206 may extend below the bottom surface 520 of the plunger 500. In some embodiments, the partition wall 206 extends about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm (e.g., about 1 mm to about 2 mm) below the bottom of the plunger 500. In some embodiments, the partition wall 206 extends at least 1 mm below the bottom of the plunger 500. The plunger 500 may have longitudinal dimensions in the Y direction. The plunger 500 may include a central column 502, ribs 504 and 506, a rod 508, a flange 510, a sealing base 512, and spacers 514, 516, and 518.
[0047] The plunger 500 may be configured to move up and down along the axis 2 within the passage 130 as the lid 300 moves between a closed position and an open position. For example, the plunger 500 may move from a sealed position when the lid 300 is in the closed position (e.g., as shown in Figure 3A) to an unsealed position when the lid 300 is in the open position (e.g., as shown in Figure 3B). The movement of the lid 300 may cause the movement of the plunger 500. For example, the rod 508 may extend through the slot 304 and be rotatably coupled to the lid 300. The rotational motion of the lid 300 may cause the vertical motion of the plunger 500. For example, when the lid 300 is rotated around axis 1, the slot 304 may move upward, which also raises the rod 508 extending through the slot 304. Thus, the plunger 500 may move upward when the lid 300 is rotated around axis 1 and the slot 304 moves upward. When the plunger 500 is in the unsealed position, a flow path through which the fluid solid 600 can pass may be exposed. For example, the plunger 500 may have a minimum width smaller than the minimum width of the passage 130 and a minimum length smaller than the minimum length of the passage 130, thereby forming a flow path from the appropriate dispensing chamber 120 to the outlet 150 when the lid 300 is in the open position.
[0048] The plunger 500 may include at least one central rib 504 extending perpendicularly along the central column 502 and at least one rib 506 parallel to the rib 504. In some embodiments, the plunger 500 includes a first rib 504 on a first side of the central column 502 and a second rib 504 on a second side of the first side of the central column 502. In some embodiments, the plunger 500 includes two ribs 506 located on the first side of the central column 502 and on both sides of the first rib 504. The plunger 500 may include a flange 510 configured to contact the inner surface of the lid 300 when the lid 300 is in the open position. This can help ensure that the fluid solid 600 is directed out of the outlet 150 and prevent the fluid solid 600 from entering the lid 300.
[0049] The main body 200 may include a ledge 210 and a lower portion 212 positioned inward relative to the wall 204 of the main body 200. This may form an opening between the dispensing chamber 120 and the passage 130 that is narrower than the passage 130. The plunger 500 may include a sealing base 512 having a size corresponding to the opening between the dispensing chamber 120 and the passage 130, so that when the lid 300 is in the closed position and the plunger 500 is in the sealing position, the sealing base 512 seals the dispensing chamber 120. In some embodiments, the plunger 500 is pushed into the dispensing chamber 120 at the ledge 210 to seal it. As the lid 300 moves to the open position and the plunger 500 moves to the unsealed position, the sealing base 512 may move upward enough to expose the exit from the dispensing chamber 120 to the passage 130.
[0050] The plunger 500 may include one or more spacers (e.g., spacers 514, 516, and 518) on the rib 504 or rib 506. These spacers may be configured to contact the inner wall of the body 200 within the passage 130. This contact helps restrict the lateral movement of the plunger 500 within the passage 130 and can facilitate proper and repeatable sealing of the dispensing chamber 120 when the lid 300 is in the closed position. For example, the spacers can ensure that the sealing base 512 remains aligned with the opening between the dispensing chamber 120 and the passage 130.
[0051] In some embodiments, the plunger 500 includes a first rib 504 on a first side surface of the central column 502, and the first rib 504 includes a spacer 514. In some embodiments, the plunger 500 includes a second rib 504 on a second side surface of the central column 502 opposite to the first side surface, and the second rib 504 includes spacers 516 and 518.
[0052] In some embodiments, the lid 300 is slidably coupled to the body 200 and does not rotate, and the plunger 500 is fixedly coupled to the lid 300. In some embodiments, the plunger 500 is integral with the lid 300. In some embodiments, the lid 300 may slide upward from a closed position to an open position, and the plunger 500 moves upward from a sealed position to an unsealed position as the lid 300 moves upward from a closed position to an open position. In some embodiments, the lid 300 is configured to slide upward in response to an upward force applied to the lid 300.
[0053] The container 100 may be a blow-molded container, or it may be composed of injection-molded or metal parts. The container 100 may be made from a variety of materials, including one or more of the following: thermoplastic resins (e.g., high-density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), polypropylene, polystyrene, copolyester, or bioplastics. In some embodiments, the container 100 and its components may be made from metal (e.g., aluminum or steel). In some embodiments, the container 100 may be made from a single material (e.g., HDPE or polypropylene). This allows the container 100 to be recycled in a single recycling flow without disassembling its components. In some embodiments, the container 100 is fully recyclable. In some embodiments, all components of the container 100 (e.g., body 200, lid 300, base 400, and plunger 500) are made from the same material. In some embodiments, all components of the container 100 are made from HDPE. In some embodiments, all components of the container 100 are made from polypropylene. In some embodiments, one or more components of the container 100 are made from a translucent material. For example, the main body 200 or a part thereof may be translucent so that the amount of fluid solid 600 remaining in the container 100 is visible.
[0054] The container 100 may be a blow-molded container or may be composed of injection-molded parts. Each component of the container 100 (e.g., body 200, lid 300, base 400, and plunger 500) may be a single, integrated structure. The container 100 may be filled with the fluid solid 600 by inverting the container 100 and adding the fluid solid 600 to the storage space 110 before the base 400 is attached. After filling, the base 400 may be coupled to the body 200 as described above. In embodiments where the container is not refillable, the base 400 may be permanently coupled to the body 200 after filling. In embodiments where the container is refillable, the base 400 may be used as a removable closure after filling.
[0055] The fluid solid 600 can be used to produce a beverage by mixing a single dose with water. For example, the fluid solid 600 may contain flavorings, electrolytes, nutritional supplements, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the fluid solid 600 is a beverage concentrate. In some embodiments, each dose of the fluid solid 600 has an equal volume. The fluid solid 600 may be a powder or granules (e.g., spices, sugar, salt, beverage concentrate, hydrated powder, electrolyte powder, etc.). Container 100 can be used to dispense equal doses. Each dose may have a predetermined volume that can be set between 0.1 mL and 60 mL. For example, a container for electrolyte powder may dispense doses having a predetermined volume of about 0.1 mL to about 0.5 mL, a container for beverage concentrate may dispense doses having a predetermined volume of about 1 mL to about 30 mL, and a container for hydrated powder may dispense doses having a predetermined volume of about 15 mL to about 60 mL.
[0056] In some embodiments, each dose of the fluid solid 600 has a predetermined volume of about 0.1 mL to about 60 mL (for example, about 0.1 mL to about 0.5 mL, about 1 mL to about 5 mL, about 2 mL to about 3 mL, about 15 mL to about 60 mL, or about 25 mL to about 35 mL). In some embodiments, each dose of the fluid solid 600 has a volume of about 2.5 mL. In some embodiments, each dose of the fluid solid 600 has a volume of about 30 mL.
[0057] The container 100 can dispense accurate and consistent doses of the fluid solid 600 by inverting the container 100 toward the outlet 150. The amount of powder dispensed is independent of the volume of powder remaining in the container (assuming there is enough powder for at least one full dose) and the speed at which the user inverts the container.
[0058] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating exemplary methods 1000 of how equal doses of powder are dispensed from container 100 according to several embodiments by opening container 100 and rotating container 100. Figures 3A–3D illustrate the process of dispensing the powder. Figure 3A shows container 100 in an upright orientation with lid 300 in the closed position. As shown in Figure 3A, the storage space 110 is partially filled with fluid solid 600. In step 1010, the user opens lid 300 by applying downward pressure to the top of lid 300 near flange 306 until lid 300 is in the open position and hole 314 engages with stopper 214. In step 1020, the user moves container 100 from an open upright orientation (Figure 3B) to an inclined orientation (Figure 3D) to separate a dose 610 of fluid solid 600 (previously in the appropriate dispensing chamber 120) from the remainder 620. The dose 610 separates from the remainder 620 at the corner 121 between the dispensing chamber 120 and the storage space 110. The partition 404 can also control the size of the dose 610. For example, the height and position of the partition 404 can prevent excess powder from flowing out of the container 100 when the container is rotated from an upright position to an inclined position. Flowable solids do not flow as easily as liquids, as they can accumulate without falling at various angles (i.e., the angle of repose of the flowable solid). Therefore, the flowable solid 600 has an angle of repose such that the flowable solid 600 separates easily at the corner 121 without significant variation in dose volume, regardless of the difference in the speed at which the container 100 is rotated. However, the angle of repose varies depending on the material being dispensed. In some embodiments, the flowable solid has an angle of repose of at least 30 degrees. In contrast, liquids can flow more easily and quickly so that the flow of the dispensed liquid does not separate, and the amount of dispensed liquid can vary widely depending on the speed at which the container 100 is rotated.
[0059] In step 1030, the user moves container 100 to an inverted orientation (Figure 3D) and dispenses a dose 610 of the fluid solid 600. The partition 204 holds the remainder 620 and prevents the remainder from entering the passage 130 in this orientation. As container 100 is rotated from the inclined orientation to the inverted orientation, the dose 610 of the fluid solid 600 moves along the exit passage 130 to the exit 150 and exits container 100 through the exit 150. As shown in Figure 3D, the dose 610 of the fluid solid 600 can be dispensed into container 700. Container 700 may be any type of container configured to receive the fluid solid 600 (e.g., a beverage container, a cooler, a food container, a bowl, or any other suitable food or beverage container). Container 700 may be configured to receive the closure 710. The dose 610 of the fluid solid 600 can be mixed with water in container 700 to make a beverage. Due to the structure of the container 100 and the relative positions of the partition wall 206, storage space 110, dispensing chamber 120, and outlet passage 130, only one dose of powder (e.g., dose 610 of the fluid solid 600) is dispensed each time the container is rotated from the upright position to the inverted position. To dispense the same dose of powder again, the user simply rotates the container back to the upright orientation (step 1040), thereby separating dose 610 from the remainder 620 of the fluid solid 600. After separation, dose 610 falls into the dispensing chamber 120, and the process of rotating the container to the inclined position (step 1020) and then to the inverted position (step 1030) is repeated. Each time the container 100 is returned to the upright position, one dose (e.g., dose 610) of the fluid solid 600 is placed into the dispensing chamber 120. By repeating this process, the user can consistently dispense equal doses of powder each time the process is repeated, until all the powder has been dispensed from container 100. Steps 1020-1040 can be repeated until storage space 110 is empty. In other words, the user can dispense equal doses of powder as long as storage space 100 is filled with an amount of fluid solid 600 between the amount of one dispensing and the capacity of storage space 110.
[0060] In some embodiments, the container 100 is in an inclined orientation when rotated from an upright position by more than 0 degrees and less than about 115 degrees. In some embodiments, the container 100 is in an inverted orientation when rotated from an upright orientation by more than about 115 degrees and less than about 180 degrees.
[0061] For convenience, container 100 is described in relation to dispensing powder or granules as a fluid solid 600, but it should be understood that container 100 may be filled with other products that can be dispensed in a similar manner. For example, container 100 can be filled with a fluid solid (e.g., a granular or powdered product) at any time to benefit from dispensing precise doses (e.g., beverage concentrates, hydrated powders, electrolyte powders, sugar, salt, space, etc.).
[0062] When used herein, terms such as “top” and “bottom,” and “summit” and “bottom” are intended to aid in understanding embodiments of the invention with respect to the orientation of the beverage closure shown, with reference to the accompanying drawings, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or limit its scope to embodiments shown in the drawings. The orientation terms are used for explanatory convenience, and it is understood that the systems disclosed herein may be arranged in any of the various orientations.
[0063] As used herein, the terms “equal volume” or “equal dose” include a tolerance for slight variations from the actual dose size. For example, “equal volume” or “equal dose” may include a tolerance of ±10% from the actual dose or volume.
[0064] Where a value is used as an endpoint of a range, this disclosure should be understood to include that specific value or endpoint. Where used herein, the term “about” with respect to a value or quantity includes ±10%.
[0065] It should be understood that the “Modes for Carrying Out the Invention” section, and any other sections, are not intended to be used to interpret the claims. Other sections may illustrate one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of the Disclosure as the inventors may have conceived, but are not in any way intended to limit the scope of the Disclosure and the accompanying claims.
[0066] This disclosure has been described above with the help of functional building blocks that illustrate the implementation of specific functions and their relationships. The boundaries of these functional building blocks are arbitrarily defined herein for the sake of explanation. Alternative boundaries may be defined, as long as the specific functions and their relationships are adequately performed.
[0067] The foregoing description of specific embodiments will allow others, by applying their knowledge, to readily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments to various uses, without excessive experimentation and without departing from the general concepts of the disclosure, fully illustrating the general nature of the disclosure. Such adaptations and modifications are therefore intended to be within the meaning and scope of the equivalent embodiments of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teachings and guidance presented herein. It should be understood that the expressions and terminology herein are for illustrative purposes only and not limiting, and consequently, the terms and expression herein should be interpreted by those skilled in the art in terms of teachings and guidance.
[0068] References herein such as "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an example embodiment," and "some embodiments" indicate that the embodiments described may include certain features, structures, or characteristics, but not all embodiments may necessarily include such features, structures, or characteristics. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments. Moreover, where certain features, structures, or characteristics are described in relation to an embodiment, whether explicitly stated or not, any impact of such features, structures, or characteristics on other embodiments is to be known to those skilled in the art.
[0069] The breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above, but should be defined solely in accordance with the claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. A container for dispensing a fluid solid, wherein the container is A main body that defines an internal space, wherein the internal space is Storage space and Exit passageway, A suitable amount dispensing chamber communicating with the storage space and the outlet passage, A closure for sealing the container, wherein the closure is A lid rotatably coupled to the main body, wherein the lid is configured to rotate from a closed position to an open position about a first axis, A closure comprising: a plunger rotatably coupled to the lid within the upper quarter of the height of the container, wherein the plunger is configured to move in the direction of a second axis from a sealed position to an unsealed position when the lid is rotated about a first axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis, the plunger extending into the outlet passage, and forming a seal within the lower quarter of the height of the container when the plunger is in the sealed position; The container is configured to dispense a single dose of the fluid solid when the plunger is in the unsealed position and the container is at least partially inverted. Each dose is contained in a container of equal volume.
2. The container according to claim 1, further comprising a partition wall separating the storage space from the outlet passage.
3. The container according to claim 2, wherein the partition wall extends below the bottom of the plunger when the plunger is in the sealing position.
4. The container according to claim 1, wherein the appropriate dispensing chamber is configured to contain a single dose of the fluid solid.
5. The container according to claim 4, wherein when the container is at least partially inverted and the plunger is in the unsealed position, only the amount of the fluid solid is dispensed.
6. The container according to claim 1, wherein the storage space is configured to accommodate at least 10 doses of the fluid solid.
7. The container according to claim 1, wherein when the plunger is in the unsealed position, a path is formed from the appropriate amount dispensing chamber to the outlet, passing through the plunger.
8. The container according to claim 7, wherein the plunger comprises a sealing base configured to contact the wall of the outlet passage when the plunger is in the sealing position so that the appropriate dispensing chamber is sealed.
9. The container according to claim 8, wherein the width of the outlet passage increases along the second axis such that when the plunger is in the unsealed position, the outlet path is defined by the outlet passage and the plunger.
10. The container according to claim 1, wherein the body includes a stopper configured to restrict the rotation of the lid when the lid is in the closed position, and the lid includes an opening configured to engage with the stopper when the lid is in the open position.
11. The container according to claim 1, wherein the lid rotates from a closed position to an open position when force is applied to the lid.
12. The container according to claim 1, further comprising a base attached to the main body, wherein the base defines the floor of the storage space and the floor of the appropriate-amount dispensing chamber.
13. The container according to claim 12, wherein the base further comprises a partition extending into the storage space such that the partition restricts the flow of the fluid solid from the storage space when the container is at least partially inverted.
14. The container according to claim 1, wherein the container is recyclable in a single recycling flow.
15. A container for dispensing a fluid solid, wherein the container is The main body comprises, An internal space comprising a storage space, an outlet passage, and a dispensing chamber for appropriate amounts, wherein the dispensing chamber for appropriate amounts is in communication with the storage space and the outlet passage, and the internal space is connected to the storage space and the outlet passage. A partition wall separates the storage space from the outlet passage, A closure for sealing the container, wherein the closure comprises a lid and a plunger, In response to a force applied to the lid, the lid is configured to move from a closed position to an open position, and the plunger moves upward from a sealed position to an unsealed position to expose the outlet path within the outlet passage. A container configured such that, when the outlet passage is exposed and the container is in an inverted orientation, the container dispenses only one dose through the outlet.
16. The container according to claim 15, wherein when the plunger is in the sealing position, the plunger forms a seal within the lower quarter of the height of the container.
17. The container according to claim 15, wherein the lid is configured to rotate about a first axis from the closed position to the open position, and the plunger is rotatably coupled to the lid within the upper quarter of the height of the container.
18. The container according to claim 17, wherein the force is a downward force, and the plunger is configured to move upward along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis in response to the downward force applied to the lid.
19. The container according to claim 15, further comprising a base detachably connected to the main body, wherein the base defines the storage space and the floor of the appropriate dispensing chamber.
20. The container according to claim 19, wherein the base is provided with a partition wall that extends from the base into the storage space when the base is connected to the main body.
21. The container according to claim 15, wherein the plunger includes a sealing base that contacts the wall of the outlet passage to seal the appropriate volume dispensing chamber when the plunger is in the sealing position, and the sealing base separates from the wall of the outlet passage when the plunger is in the unsealed position to form a path through which the volume is dispensed.
22. The container according to claim 15, wherein the plunger comprises a flange, the flange contacts the side surface of the lid when the lid is in the open position.
23. The container according to claim 15, wherein the plunger is integral with the lid, and the lid and the plunger are configured to move upward in response to an upward force applied to the lid.