Molded containers

Abstract

To provide a molding container which has a bottom plate member at the bottom part of an inner container for storing content and an elevator mechanism for moving the bottom plate member upwardly and which is capable of easily and smoothly pushing up the bottom plate member so as to completely use all of the content with simple assembly of components constituting the elevator mechanism.SOLUTION: A molding container 1 according to the present invention comprises: a bottomed cylindrical inner container 2 into which content can be inserted; a bottom plate member 3 which is arranged inside the inner container 2 and is movable upwardly; a cylindrical outer container 4 which inwardly stores the inner container 2; and an elevator mechanism 5 for moving the bottom plate member 3 upwardly. The elevator mechanism 5 comprises: a belt member 6 for pushing up the bottom plate member 3; an uneven part 9 which is formed on a surface of the belt member 6; a belt delivery part 7 for delivering the belt member 6; and a first hole part 8 which is provided at the bottom part center of the inner container 2 and through which one end side 6a of the belt member 6 passes.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a molded container that pushes up the contents contained inside an inner container.

Background Art

[0002] As a container for containing contents such as cosmetics, a double molded container including an inner container for containing the contents and an outer container for storing the inner container is often adopted. However, the contents such as cosmetics become more difficult to take out as they are closer to the bottom of the inner container, and it becomes necessary to purchase the next product before finishing using them up.

[0003] However, if it is discarded without being used up, there is a problem that the unused part remains and cannot be effectively utilized. Thus, from the aspects of resources such as materials and the environment of disposal, it is better to use up the contents such as cosmetics until the end. Therefore, conventionally, in order to use up the contents such as cosmetics until the end, a molded container provided with a mechanism for pushing up the contents has been provided. Examples of the molded container provided with a mechanism for pushing up the contents include those disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2.

[0004] Patent Document 1 improves the operability without increasing the number of components in a metering dispensing container. In addition, an information display part is provided on the outer surface, and it is possible to confirm the dispensed amount or the remaining amount of the contents. The technology of this Patent Document 1 uses the basic structure of a conventional dispensing container for the component configuration. That is, the metering dispensing container of Patent Document 1 has a simple device configuration that can be conceived by those skilled in the art (for example, refer to FIG. 1).

[0005] Patent Document 2 describes a dispensing container in which the contents between a fixed partition plate and a rotating partition plate provided inside the container are compressed by rotating the rotating partition plate, and an appropriate amount of contents is smoothly dispensed from a discharge port provided on the upper surface of the lid. Patent Document 2 is capable of rotating the rotating partition plate along the inner surface shape of the container while reliably maintaining airtightness. Furthermore, the dispensing container of Patent Document 2 can be assembled simply by fitting and fixing all the components together (see, for example, Figures 2 and 3). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-81188 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 4415412 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] Recently, due to environmental concerns, there has been an increasing demand for containers that allow for refilling or replacement of their contents. Refilling only the contents is time-consuming and inconvenient. Therefore, containers are being offered that consist of at least two parts, and when the contents run out, the empty inner container is replaced with an inner container containing new contents.

[0008] In other words, the inner container that holds the contents, such as cosmetics, can be a refillable container that can be detachably stored in the outer container. That is, a refillable container is a storage container that can be inserted into and removed from the outer container.

[0009] With this type of molded container equipped with a refillable container, after the contents are used up, the user removes the used refill container from the outer container and replaces it with a new refill container filled with contents, thereby enabling the reuse of the outer container. In other words, molded containers equipped with refillable containers can address environmental issues such as the mass disposal of plastic products.

[0010] Now, let me discuss the challenges of existing containers for dispensing high-viscosity contents. For example, products using a screw structure, such as the quantitative dispensing container disclosed in Patent Document 1 or screw-type containers for lip balm, allow for easy adjustment of the dispensing amount and enable dispensing of high-viscosity contents with minimal force.

[0011] However, the quantitative dispensing container in Patent Document 1 has a screw mechanism composed of spiral grooves and protrusions. This is a mechanism that dispenses the contents using [a specific method]. The assembly method for this quantitative dispensing container is as follows: (1) to (4). (1) Assemble the lifting plate and the inner cylinder. (2): Combine the parts assembled in (1) with the outer cylinder. (3): Assemble (2) with the outer container. (4): Set the nozzle.

[0012] Thus, in step (3), it is necessary to assemble the container by engaging the spiral groove of the outer container (guide sleeve) with the projection of the inner cylinder (lifter sleeve) that constitutes the screw mechanism and rotating it, which is a complicated process.

[0013] On the other hand, with screw-on containers such as lip balm, there is a concern that the contents may leak from the screw threads. In other words, the screw threads may become dirty. Also, due to manufacturing costs and other factors, there are few refillable containers available for containers that use a screw-on structure.

[0014] Products that use a belt to dispense their contents, such as those in which a flexible belt is attached to an inner container holding the contents and stored in an outer container so that the belt can bend, and by lowering a lever connected to the belt, the folded belt moves inside the outer container and pushes up the inner container to dispense the contents, are easy to assemble. However, these belt-type containers are often stick-shaped, and if the dispensing opening is small compared to the area being pushed up, the lever operation can become stiff and heavy, making them difficult to use.

[0015] Furthermore, products using partition plates, such as those described in Patent Document 2, have a simple container assembly. However, in containers using partition plates, the rotation of the inner stopper and the movement of the partition plate are linked, causing the contents to be dispensed all at once. This makes it difficult to adjust the amount of contents dispensed, and it is not possible to dispense the required amount.

[0016] Furthermore, the need to rotate the rotating partition plate to apply pressure between the two partition plates, and the need for airtightness between the partition plates, may result in the rotation operation not being smooth, potentially making the operation of dispensing the contents heavier.

[0017] As mentioned above, current high-viscosity dispensing containers come in a variety of specifications and configurations. Each of these products has its advantages and disadvantages, but challenges remain in either assembly or operation. There is a need for a container that overcomes these challenges and combines both ease of assembly and operation.

[0018] Therefore, in view of the above problems, the present invention aims to provide a molded container that has a bottom plate member at the bottom of the inner container for holding contents, and a lifting mechanism for moving the bottom plate member upward, and by simplifying the assembly of the parts constituting the lifting mechanism, the bottom plate member can be easily and smoothly pushed up, and all of the contents can be used up. [Means for solving the problem]

[0019] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention has taken the following technical means.

[0020] The shaping container according to the present invention has a bottomed cylindrical inner container into which contents can be filled, a bottom plate member disposed in the inner container and movable upward, an outer container that houses the inner container therein, and a lifting mechanism that moves the bottom plate member upward. The lifting mechanism includes a belt member that pushes up the bottom plate member and a belt feeding portion that feeds out the belt member, and is characterized by this.

[0021] Preferably, the lifting mechanism includes the belt member whose one end abuts on the bottom plate member and pushes up the bottom plate member by raising the one end, a first hole provided at the center of the bottom of the inner container through which one end of the belt member penetrates, uneven portions formed on the surface of the belt member, and the belt feeding portion that feeds out the belt member and raises the one end by engaging with the uneven portions.

[0022] Preferably, a second hole communicating with the first hole is provided at the center of the bottom of the outer container. The belt member has flexibility, one end projects from the first hole and the second hole and abuts on the bottom plate member, and is disposed curved in a side view outside the outer container. The belt feeding portion is formed outside the bottom of the inner container and is a single coil of helix in which one end and the other end are displaced by a certain amount to form a gap. The uneven portions are preferably formed in plural on the surface of the belt member and are provided so as to enter the gap of the belt feeding portion and engage with each other. The uneven portions are preferably formed in plural on the surface of the belt member and are provided so as to enter the gap of the belt feeding portion and engage with each other.

[0023] Preferably, the belt member is a long member whose middle portion in the longitudinal direction is bendable, and the bent portion is disposed so as to protrude from the first hole portion and the second hole portion so as to contact the bottom plate member. The concavo-convex portion has a first concavo-convex portion formed on one end side and a second concavo-convex portion formed on the other end side, with respect to the bent portion of the belt member. The first concavo-convex portion and the second concavo-convex portion preferably have different pitches shifted by one peak in a side view when the belt member is bent to provide the bent portion.

[0024] Preferably, when the inner container is not attached to the outer container, the belt member is in a free state with respect to the inner container, and the inner container is configured to be detachable.

[0025] Preferably, the belt member has flexibility, one end side protrudes from the first hole portion and contacts the bottom plate member, and is disposed in a curved manner between the inner container and the outer container. The belt feeding portion is formed on the inner wall surface of the outer container and has a plurality of downwardly wound spirals. The concavo-convex portion is preferably formed with at least one peak on the surface of the other end side of the belt member and is disposed so as to mesh with the belt feeding portion.

Effects of the Invention

[0026] According to the formed container of the present invention, a bottom plate member is provided at the bottom of the inner container for containing the content, and a lifting mechanism for moving the bottom plate member upward is provided. By simplifying the assembly of the components constituting the lifting mechanism, the bottom plate member can be easily and smoothly pushed up, and all of the content can be used up.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027] [Figure 1] It is an exploded view showing the outline of the formed container of the present invention (First Embodiment). [Figure 2] It is a cross-sectional view when the formed container of the present invention is disassembled (First Embodiment). [Figure 3]This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the assembled molded container of the present invention (first embodiment). [Figure 4] This diagram shows a schematic representation of the belt member and the uneven surface (belt peaks). [Figure 5] This figure shows that when the molding container of this embodiment is used, the uneven portion of the belt member and the belt feeding portion have a screw-like relationship. [Figure 6] This diagram shows a schematic representation of the assembly method for the molded container according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] This diagram shows a schematic representation of the operation method of the molding container according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows a schematic representation of a modified example of the first embodiment of the molded container of the present invention. [Figure 9] This figure shows a schematic representation of a modified example (belt member) of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This is an exploded view showing a schematic representation of a second embodiment of the molded container of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a schematic cross-sectional perspective view showing the molded container of the second embodiment assembled. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments of the molded container according to the present invention will be described with reference to the figures.

[0029] The embodiments described below are merely examples of the present invention and do not limit the configuration of the present invention by these specific examples. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, some components (such as the cap) have been omitted from the drawings, and dashed lines have been used.

[0030] In describing this embodiment, a molded container 1 (high-viscosity dispensing container 1) that dispenses high-viscosity contents will be used as an example. The contents may be viscous (for example, creamy). Alternatively, the contents may be solid. [First Embodiment] Figures 1 to 7 show a first embodiment of the molded container 1 according to the present invention.

[0031] As shown in Figure 1 and other figures, the molded container 1 of this embodiment is a bottomed cylinder, for example, formed by injection molding. It is a container formed in the shape of a wide-mouthed bottle. In other words, the molded container 1 is a container having a bottom and cylindrical side walls that surround the bottom, and with an open top.

[0032] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the molded container 1 according to the present invention is a sealable container and comprises an inner container 2 formed in the shape of a bottomed cylindrical container so that contents can be loaded into it, a bottom plate member 3 disposed inside the inner container 2 and movable upward, a cylindrical outer container 4 that houses the inner container 2 equipped with the bottom plate member 3, a cap body (not shown) that covers and seals the upper opening of the inner container 2, and a lifting mechanism 5 that moves the bottom plate member 3 upward.

[0033] The lifting mechanism 5 is a characteristic mechanism of the present invention and comprises a belt member 6 that pushes up the bottom plate member 3 and a belt feeding unit 7 that feeds out the belt member 6. Specifically, the lifting mechanism 5 comprises a belt member 6 whose one end 6a abuts against the bottom plate member 3 and pushes up the bottom plate member 3 by raising the one end 6a; a first hole 8 provided in the center of the bottom of the inner container 2 (refill container) through which one end 6a of the belt member 6 passes; an uneven surface 9 formed on the surface of the belt member 6; and a belt feeding unit 7 that engages with the uneven surface 9 to feed out the belt member 6 and raise the one end 6a. The lifting mechanism 5 of this embodiment is provided in the inner container 2 and the outer container 4, etc., and will be described in detail below.

[0034] As shown in Figure 1, the inner container 2 is formed in the shape of a large, wide-mouthed bottle and can contain semi-solid or paste-like cosmetics. In this embodiment, the inner container 2 is a replaceable refill container 2 that can be removed from the outer container 4.

[0035] The refill container 2 has a bottomed cylindrical body 10 for containing cosmetics and the like, and a flange 11 provided at the top of the body 10. The body 10 has a bottom, a cylindrical side wall (inner wall) provided to surround the bottom, and an upper opening 12 which is open at the top of the side wall.

[0036] The refill container 2 (body portion 10) has a certain depth to accommodate a predetermined amount of cosmetics or other substances. A male screw portion 13 is provided around the upper outer wall of the refill container 2. In addition, an annular groove portion 14 is formed on the outer circumferential wall of the refill container 2.

[0037] The groove 14 engages with a claw portion 26 formed on the inner wall surface of the housing 21, which will be described later. The engagement of the claw portion 26 with this groove 14 allows the refill container 2 to be rotatably supported within the outer container 4 (housing 21) when stored.

[0038] The flange portion 11 is provided to protrude outward from the upper opening 12. The flange portion 11 of the refill container 2 engages with the flange portion 24 provided on the housing 21 that constitutes the outer container 4, thereby supporting the refill container 2 on the housing 21.

[0039] In this embodiment, an inner lid 15 (internal stopper 15) is attached to the top of the refill container 2. A female screw portion 16 is formed around the inner wall of the inner lid 15. The male screw portion 13 provided on the refill container 2 is screwed into the female screw portion 16, thereby closing the upper opening 12 of the refill container 2. The inner lid 15 can be attached to and detached from the refill container 2 by unscrewing the male screw portion 13 and the female screw portion 16. However, the inner lid 15 can also be fixed to the refill container 2 by forced fitting or other means.

[0040] The inner lid 15 is provided with a discharge port 17 in the center, which connects the inside and outside of the refill container 2, allowing the contents to be dispensed to the outside.

[0041] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the bottom plate member 3 (lifting plate 3) is a disc-shaped member that is positioned at the bottom of the refill container 2 (body portion 10) and is movable upward. The bottom plate member 3 has approximately the same shape and area as the bottom of the refill container 2. More specifically, since the bottom plate member 3 is slidable upward inside the refill container 2, its outer diameter is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the bottom of the refill container 2.

[0042] A protruding convex portion 3a is provided in the center of the back surface of the bottom plate member 3. A recess 18 is provided in this convex portion 3a. This recess 18 is in contact with one end 6a of the belt member 6, which will be described later. When the belt member 6 is unwound, the belt member 6 passes through the first hole 8 and one end 6a rises, causing the bottom plate member 3 to move upward via the recess 18 and be pushed up by the belt member 6, thereby pushing the contents upward.

[0043] A first hole 8, which constitutes the lifting mechanism 5 of the present invention, is provided in the center of the bottom of the refill container 2. In this embodiment, a convex portion 19 that protrudes upward is formed in the center of the flat bottom of the refill container 2.

[0044] The protrusion 19 is shaped like a floating island with a predetermined outer diameter, and has a first hole 8 that penetrates through its center. In other words, the protrusion 19 is a cylindrical member with the first hole 8. The protrusion 19 also serves as a support portion 19 that supports the bottom plate member 3 at a predetermined height on the bottom side of the refill container 2.

[0045] The first hole 8 is a hole that penetrates the bottom of the refill container 2 in the vertical direction. The first hole 8 has a predetermined inner diameter. In other words, the first hole 8 communicates the inside of the refill container 2 with the housing 21 side of the outer container 4.

[0046] The first hole 8 is positioned so that one end 6a of the belt member 6 that constitutes the lifting mechanism 5 passes through it. Furthermore, when assembling the molded container 1, the second hole 31 (protrusion 33) provided at the bottom of the housing 21 (details will be described later) passes through the first hole 8.

[0047] On the other hand, a belt delivery section 7, which constitutes the lifting mechanism 5 of the present invention, is provided on the outer bottom of the refill container 2. This belt delivery section 7 has a roughly annular shape, like the base of a teacup, and is provided so as to surround the first hole 8. The belt delivery section 7 is formed to protrude downward from the outer bottom of the refill container 2 to a predetermined height.

[0048] The belt dispensing section 7 is spiral-shaped (spiral-shaped) with at least one turn in a plan view. In this embodiment, the belt dispensing section 7 is formed on the outside of the bottom of the refill container 2 (inner container 2) and is spiral-shaped with one turn.

[0049] The belt feeding section 7 has a roughly circular shape, like the base of a teacup, but has one end 7a and the other end 7b, and these two ends are offset by a certain amount. In this embodiment, one end 7a of the belt feeding section 7 is provided on the outside of the diameter (see Figure 5). The other end 7b of the belt feeding section 7 is provided on the inside of the diameter.

[0050] In other words, in this embodiment, the belt feeding section 7 is not an endless annular shape, but a single-turn helix whose diameter gradually decreases from one end 7a to the other end 7b. A gap 20 is formed between the one end 7a and the other end 7b. The size of the gap 20 is equivalent to one pitch of the uneven portion 9 formed on the belt member 6, which will be described later.

[0051] As shown in Figure 4, the belt member 6 is a flexible, elongated member. One end 6a of the belt member 6 is positioned to protrude from the first hole 8 and the second hole 31 (details will be described later). This one end 6a of the belt member 6 is positioned in contact with the bottom plate member 3.

[0052] Furthermore, the belt member 6 is positioned by passing through a side hole 30 (details described later) provided at the bottom of the housing 21. The other end 6b of the belt member 6 is bent upward and fitted into a belt groove 27a (details described later) provided on the outer wall surface of the housing 21. The other end 6b abuts against the lower surface of the flange 24 of the housing 21. In other words, the other end 6b is positioned vertically upward.

[0053] The belt member 6 is positioned on the outside of the housing 21 of the outer container 4, curved in a side view (in a U-shape). The belt member 6 pushes up the bottom plate member 3 from one end 6a. In other words, one end 6a of the belt member 6 is an extrusion portion 6a that pushes up the bottom plate member 3.

[0054] Multiple protrusions 9 are formed on the surface (inner surface) of the belt member 6. The protrusions 9 are positioned facing the side of the containment body 21 (the inner side of the outer container 4) which is located on the inside. The protrusions 9 (belt teeth) are positioned to fit into and interlock with the gaps 20 provided in the raised-base-shaped belt delivery section 7. The pitch of the protrusions 9 is arbitrarily determined by the amount that raises the bottom plate member 3, such as the amount of contents dispensed in one go. The height of the protrusions 9 (threads) is arbitrarily determined by the weight of the contents, the hardness of the material of the refill container 2 (belt delivery section 7), etc.

[0055] When the refill container 2 is rotated, the raised belt feed section 7 located at the bottom of the refill container 2 rotates accordingly. One end 7a (the outer end of the diameter) of the belt feed section 7 fits between the irregularities 9 formed on the inner surface (surface) of the belt member 6. The belt feed section 7 rotates It slides between the uneven parts 9 while rolling, and engages with the uneven parts 9.

[0056] When the belt feed unit 7 completes one rotation, the belt member 6 is fed out into the first hole 8 by one pitch of the uneven portion 9. One end 7a of the belt feed unit 7 enters between the next uneven portion 9. In this way, the belt feed unit 7 repeatedly engages with the uneven portion 9 of the belt member 6 while sliding between them. One end 6a (extrusion portion 6a) of the belt member 6 is pushed upward from the first hole 8, raising the bottom plate member 3 by one pitch of the uneven portion 9.

[0057] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the outer container 4 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape and has a wide-mouthed bottle shape into which the inner container 2 (in this embodiment, the refill container 2) is fitted and housed from the outside. In this embodiment, the outer container 4 is a divided body consisting of an inner and outer part, and has a housing 21 that houses the refill container 2 and a cover 22 that houses the housing 21. In this embodiment, the outer container 4 is a divided body, but it may be a one-piece housing container.

[0058] The container 21 is formed in the shape of a wide-mouthed bottle, larger than the refill container 2. The container 21 has a bottomed cylindrical body 23 that houses the refill container 2, and a flange 24 provided at the top of the body 23.

[0059] The body portion 23 has a bottom portion, a cylindrical side wall portion (inner wall) provided to surround the bottom portion, and an upper opening 25 with the upper side of the side wall portion open. The housing 21 has a certain depth to accommodate the refill container 2. The flange portion 24 is provided to protrude outward from the upper opening 25. The flange portion 24 supports the refill container 2 when it is housed in the housing by engaging with the flange portion 11 of the refill container 2.

[0060] Furthermore, claw portions 26 are formed at equal intervals on the inner wall surface of the housing 21. The claw portions 26 engage with annular groove portions 14 formed on the outer circumferential wall of the refill container 2. Because these claw portions 26 engage with the groove portions 14, the refill container 2 is supported so as to be rotatable within the outer container 4 (housing 21) when stored.

[0061] The outer circumferential wall of the housing 21 has vertically elongated protruding positioning portions 27. The length of the positioning portions 27 corresponds to the length of the elongated grooves 38 formed on the inner circumferential wall of the cover 22. In this embodiment, four positioning portions 27 are provided on the outer circumferential wall of the body portion 23 at equal intervals (every 90°). The positioning portions 27 are members that determine the position of the housing 21 when it is housed inside the cover 22. The positioning portions 27 are guided by the elongated grooves 38 of the cover 22, thereby determining the position of the housing 21 (its orientation within the cover 22).

[0062] As shown in Figures 1 and 5, one of the positioning sections 27 has a wider groove 27a than the other three. This wider, elongated groove 27a serves as a belt groove 27a that guides the belt member 6. The belt groove 27a is wide enough for the belt member 6 to fit into. Specifically, the belt groove 27a has a pair of protruding pieces provided on the left and right sides at predetermined intervals, and the belt member 6 is positioned in the groove between them so as to be able to slide vertically. The belt groove 27a fits into a guide groove 38a provided on the inner circumferential wall of the cover body 22.

[0063] In other words, the belt groove 27a has a groove that guides the belt member 6, which constitutes the lifting mechanism 5, when it is being unfurled. The belt groove 27a guides the belt member 6 downward when it is being unfurled. The belt groove 27a also serves as a positioning member for the housing 21.

[0064] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, when viewing the bottom of the housing 21 from the outside, an annular projection 28 is formed on the outside of the bottom. The outer diameter of the projection 28 is smaller than the outer diameter of the body 23, and when viewing the housing 21 from the side, the outside appears notched. This notched shape avoids contact with the rib-shaped guide piece 39a provided at the bottom of the cover 22.

[0065] The center of the protruding portion 28 is a recess 29. In other words, the protruding portion 28 is donut-shaped. The recess 29 avoids contact with the rib-shaped guide piece 39b provided at the bottom of the cover body 22. The protruding portion 28 is provided with a side hole 30 through which the belt member 6 passes.

[0066] The side hole 30 is located below the belt groove 27a, penetrates the projection 28 horizontally, and communicates with the recess 29 provided at the bottom of the housing 21. The side hole 30 also connects the outside of the housing 21 to the inside of the body 23 (annular groove 32).

[0067] On the other hand, when viewing the bottom from inside the housing 21, a second hole 31, which constitutes the lifting mechanism 5 of the present invention, is provided in the center of the bottom of the housing 21. In this embodiment, an annular groove 32 is provided in the bottom of the housing 21.

[0068] The annular groove 32 is designed to accommodate a raised, single-turn spiral (vortex) belt delivery section 7, which is located on the outer bottom of the refill container 2. In other words, the annular groove 32 has a larger diameter and depth (height) than the belt delivery section 7. The belt member 6 (protrusions and recesses 9) is positioned within this annular groove 32.

[0069] Furthermore, a protruding projection 33 is formed in the center of the annular groove 32 (the center of the bottom of the container 21). The projection 33 is shaped like a floating island, and a second hole 331 is provided through its center. In other words, the projection 33 is a cylindrical member with the second hole 31. The annular groove 32 is donut-shaped. The projection 33 also serves as a support for the refill container 2.

[0070] This protrusion 33 (at the center of the bottom of the outer container 4 (container 21)) is provided with a second hole 31 that communicates with the first hole 8. The second hole 31 is a hole that penetrates the bottom of the containment 21 in the vertical direction. The second hole 31 connects the inside of the containment 21 of the outer container 4 to the cover 22 side.

[0071] One end 6a (extruded portion 6a) of the belt member 6 is positioned to pass through this second hole 31. In other words, the protrusion 33 is positioned to pass through the first hole 8 when assembling the molded container 1. In this embodiment, the second hole 31 is a rectangular hole that is slightly larger than the belt member 6.

[0072] The cover 22 is formed in the shape of a wide-mouthed bottle, larger than the container 21. The cover 22 has a bottomed cylindrical body 34 that houses the container 21, and a shoulder portion 35 provided on the upper part of the body 34.

[0073] The body portion 34 has a bottom portion, a cylindrical side wall portion (inner wall) provided to surround the bottom portion, and an upper opening 36 with the upper side of the side wall portion open. The body portion 34 has a certain depth to accommodate the container 21. The shoulder portion 35 supports the refill container 2 when it is stored by engaging with the flange portion 24 of the container 21.

[0074] The cover 22 covers and houses the outer surface of the container 21. The outer container 4, consisting of the cover 22 and the container 21, becomes one unit by covering and housing the outer surface of the refill container 2. In other words, the molded container 1 of this embodiment is a container with a triple-wall structure.

[0075] A male threaded portion 37 is provided around the upper outer wall of the cover body 22. The male threaded portion 37 screws into a female threaded portion provided inside the cap body (not shown), thereby closing the inner lid body 15 (inner stopper 15) of the refill container 2 and maintaining the airtight seal of the molded container 1. Furthermore, by releasing the screwing of the male threaded portion 37 and the female threaded portion, the cap body (outer stopper) can be attached to and detached from the outer container 4 (molded container 1).

[0076] As shown in Figures 1 and 5, the inner circumferential wall of the cover body 22 has elongated grooves 38 formed in the vertical direction. Four elongated grooves 38 are provided at equal intervals (90° apart) on the inner circumferential wall of the body 34. The elongated grooves 38 guide the positioning portion 27 formed on the outer circumferential wall of the housing body 21, thereby determining the position of the housing body 21 (its orientation within the cover body 22). In other words, the elongated grooves 38 are positioning members when housing the housing body 21 inside the cover body 22.

[0077] Of the elongated grooves 38, one is wider than the other three, forming a groove 38a. This wider elongated groove 38a, together with the belt groove 27a provided on the outer wall surface of the housing 21, serves as a guide groove 38a that guides the belt member 6 when it is unwound. In other words, the guide groove 38a corresponds to the belt groove 27a and guides the belt member 6 downward when it is unwound. Furthermore, the guide groove 38a also serves as a positioning member for the housing 21 within the cover 22.

[0078] A rib-shaped guide piece 39 is provided at the bottom of the cover body 22. The guide piece 39 guides the belt member 6 when it is unrolled. In this embodiment, the guide piece 39 consists of a guide piece 39a formed on the guide groove 38a side and a guide piece 39b formed in the center of the bottom of the cover body 22. It consists of and .

[0079] More specifically, the guide piece 39a is formed to protrude from the lower part of the guide groove 38a corresponding to the belt groove 27a and from the bottom of the cover body 22 connected to the guide groove 38a. In side view, the guide piece 39a is roughly triangular in shape, and the slanted side that descends from the guide groove 38a towards the center of the bottom of the cover body 22 is curved downwards with a radius (R).

[0080] Guide piece 39b has the shape of a mirror image of guide piece 39a and is provided in the center of the bottom of the cover body 22, opposite to guide piece 39a. In side view, guide piece 39b is approximately triangular in shape, and the slanted edge that descends from the top of guide piece 39b to the outside of the bottom (towards the guide groove 39a) has a downward curve (R).

[0081] In other words, the guide pieces 39a and 39b are arranged to be approximately U-shaped. The guide piece 39 smoothly guides the belt member 6, which is arranged in a U-shape during the assembly of the molded container 1, when it is unwound.

[0082] The belt member 6 has one end 6a inserted into the side hole 30 and passes through the side hole 30 toward the recess 29. The belt member 6 is bent upward toward the second hole 31 provided in the convex portion 33 at the top of the recess 29, and one end 6a is positioned to protrude from the second hole 31.

[0083] The other end 6b of the belt member 6 is fitted into a belt groove 27a provided on the outer wall surface of the housing 21. When the housing 21 equipped with the belt member 6 is fitted into the cover 22, the belt member 6 is supported from the outside by the guide groove 38a and guide pieces 39a, 39b of the cover 22. In this way, the belt member 6 is arranged in a U-shape (at the start of use, a J-shape with one end 6a lower than the other end 6b) in a lateral cross-sectional view of the molding container 1.

[0084] The belt member 6 is positioned between the housing 21 and the cover 22 in a substantially U-shape by the belt groove 27a and side holes 30 of the housing 21, and the guide groove 38a and guide pieces 39a, 39b of the cover 22, and is smoothly guided when the belt member 6 is unwound. <About the function of screws> Here, with reference to Figure 5, we will explain how the uneven portion 9 of the belt member 6 and the belt feeding portion 7 have a screw-like relationship when the molding container 1 is used.

[0085] As shown in the left diagram of Figure 5, before the refill container 2 is set inside the housing 21 (outer container 4), the belt member 6 is sandwiched between the cover 22 and the housing 21, with a portion of the belt member 6 visible.

[0086] As shown in the center diagram of Figure 5, after the refill container 2 is set inside the housing 21 (outer container 4), the belt delivery section 7, which is shaped like a raised platform and is located at the bottom of the refill container 2, engages with the uneven portion 9 (belt peaks) of the belt member 6.

[0087] As shown in the right-hand diagram of Figure 5, when the refill container 2 is rotated, for example, the single-turn spiral belt feed section 7 provided at the bottom of the refill container 2 engages with the grooves 9 (belt peaks) of the belt member 6 at one end 7a located on the outer diameter. As the refill container 2 is rotated 180 degrees, the belt feed section 7 slides along the belt member 6, and one end 7a of the belt feed section 7 engages with the next groove 9, gradually feeding the belt member 6 to the second hole 31 and the first hole 8. This movement functions as a screw.

[0088] In other words, as the refill container 2 (belt feed unit 7) is rotated, the belt feed unit 7 located at the bottom of the refill container 2 engages with the uneven surface 9 of the belt member 6, causing the belt member 6 to gradually move toward the second hole 31 and the first hole 8. By repeatedly extending the belt member 6 in this manner, the belt feed unit 7 and the uneven surface 9 of the belt member 6 come to function as a screw.

[0089] The upward push of the extrusion portion 6a (one end 6a) of the belt member 6 causes the bottom plate member 3 (lifting plate 3) to rise. The contents of the refill container 2 are discharged to the outside through the discharge port 17 of the inner lid 15 as the bottom plate member 3 rises. Once all the contents have been discharged and the refill container 2 is used up, it is replaced with a new refill container 2 filled with contents.

[0090] In this way, the uneven portion 9 of the belt member 6 and the belt feeding portion 7 function as a screw, so that a strong force like that of a screw is applied when pushing up the bottom plate member 3 (lifting plate 3). As a result, the contents can be easily dispensed by simply rotating the refill container 2 with light force. This makes it possible to assemble the product more easily than conventional products (containers) that use a screw structure. Furthermore, replacing refills becomes simpler. [Operating mode] Next, the operation of the molding container 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to the figures. <Assembly method> Figure 6 shows (1) to (4) of the assembly method of the molded container 1 according to this embodiment.

[0091] (1) The belt member 6 is set by passing it through the side hole 30 of the housing 21. That is, one end 6a of the belt member 6 is placed in the side hole 30 provided at the bottom of the housing 21. The belt member 6 passes through the protruding portion 28 and heads toward the recess 29, and one end 6a is bent upward. The one end 6a of the belt member 6 passes through the second hole 31 provided in the convex portion 33 and is positioned vertically upward.

[0092] On the other hand, the other end 6b of the belt member 6 is bent upward and fitted into the belt groove 27a provided on the outer wall surface of the housing 21 and above the side hole 30. The other end 6b abuts against the lower surface of the flange 24 of the housing 21 and is positioned vertically upward.

[0093] (2) Set the housing 21 with the belt member 6 assembled in (1) into the cover 22. That is, fit the housing 21 with the belt member 6 assembled into the cover 22 from the upper opening 36. Note that the belt member 6 will try to return to its original straight shape, so hold down the other end 6b of the belt member 6 with your finger. In this embodiment, the belt member 6 is assembled while being held down with a finger, but it is possible to temporarily fasten it by attaching a projection or the like to the belt groove 27a. The same applies to the modified version of the first embodiment and the second embodiment described later.

[0094] Align the positioning portion 27 on the outer wall surface of the housing 21 with the elongated groove portion 38 on the inner wall surface of the cover 22. Also, align the belt groove 27a on the outer wall surface of the housing 21 with the guide groove 38a on the inner wall surface of the cover 22. In this state, insert the housing 21 into the cover 22. The housing 21 is then fixed in place, with its position (orientation) determined within the cover 22.

[0095] At this time, the belt member 6 is supported from the outside by the guide groove 38a and guide pieces 39a and 39b of the cover body 22. In this way, the belt member 6 is arranged in a U-shape (at the start of use, a J-shape where one end 6a is lower than the other end 6b) when viewed in a lateral cross-section of the molding container 1.

[0096] (3) Assemble the refill container 2. That is, insert the bottom plate member 3 into the refill container 2 and place it on the bottom of the body 10. The bottom plate member 3 has a convex portion 3a on the center of its back surface which is inserted into the first hole 8 in the center of the bottom of the refill container 2 and is supported by a convex portion 19 on the bottom of the body 10. Fill the refill container 2 with contents. Close the upper opening 12 of the refill container 2 with an inner lid 15 (inner stopper 15) equipped with a discharge port 17. After sealing with the inner lid 15, attach a seal to the top of the discharge port 17 to further seal the contents. Note that after setting the refill container 2, the seal should be removed before the user uses the contents.

[0097] (4) The refill container 2 (inner container 2) is set inside the housing 21 (outer container 4) to assemble the molded container 1. That is, the assembled refill container 2 is inserted into the housing 21 through the upper opening 25. As the refill container 2 is lowered, the belt feed section 7, which is shaped like a raised platform and is located at the bottom of the refill container 2, is inserted into the annular groove 32 located at the bottom of the housing 21.

[0098] The belt delivery section 7 contacts and engages with the uneven portion 9 of the belt member 6 located in the annular groove section 32. In addition, one end 6a of the belt member 6 contacts a recess 18 provided below the bottom plate member 3. The bottom plate member 3 is able to rise due to the contact with the belt member 6.

[0099] The refill container 2 is slidably positioned around the inner circumference and vertically within the housing 21 and is removable. A cap (outer stopper) is attached to the top of the outer container 4, but this is not shown in the illustration.

[0100] Thus, the belt member 6 is simply inserted into the container 21 and set, making the process easy. When assembling a container using a conventional screw structure, there is a step of assembly while rotating, but this step is unnecessary in this embodiment, improving ease of assembly. <How to operate> Figure 7 shows (1) to (4) the operation method of the molded container 1 according to this embodiment.

[0101] (1) The refill container 2, which is filled with contents, is set inside the housing 21, and the molded container 1 is assembled. The bottom plate member 3 is supported by a protrusion 19 provided on the bottom of the refill container 2.

[0102] The belt member 6 is positioned vertically, with one end 6a passing through the second hole 31 and continuing upward through the first hole 8. The one end 6a of the belt member 6 abuts against a recess 18 provided below the bottom plate member 3. The bottom plate member 3 is able to rise due to the contact with the belt member 6.

[0103] The belt dispensing section 7, which is shaped like a raised platform and is located at the bottom of the refill container 2, is inserted into the annular groove 32 located at the bottom of the housing 21. The belt dispensing section 7 is in contact with and engaged with the uneven portion 9 of the belt member 6 located in the annular groove 32. At this time, the belt member 6 is supported from the outside by the guide groove 38a and guide pieces 39a and 39b of the cover 22.

[0104] When the belt member 6 is first used, the other end 6b within the belt groove 27a is extended upward. That is, in a lateral cross-sectional view of the molding container 1, the belt member 6 is arranged in a J-shape (in the drawing, an inverted J-shape) where one end 6a is lower than the other end 6b.

[0105] (2) As the refill container 2, to which the inner stopper 15 (inner lid 15) is assembled, is rotated, the raised, single-turn spiral belt feed section 7, formed on the outside of the bottom of the refill container 2, rotates accordingly. One end 7a (the outer end of the diameter) of the belt feed section 7 fits between the grooves 9 formed on the inner surface (surface) of the belt member 6. More specifically, the belt feed section 7 slides on the belt member 6 while rotating, and fits between the grooves 9 (screw threads) and engages (functions of a screw).

[0106] As the refill container 2 continues to rotate, the belt feed unit 7 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the refill container 2, and one end 7a of the belt feed unit 7 enters between the grooves 9. When the belt feed unit 7 completes one rotation, it pushes the grooves 9 toward the first hole 8 of the refill container 2.

[0107] The belt member 6 is gradually unwound into the first hole 8 by one pitch of the uneven portion 9. The extrusion portion 6a (one end 6a) of the belt member 6 is pushed upward from the first hole 8, raising the bottom plate member 3 by one pitch of the uneven portion 9.

[0108] When the belt feed unit 7 completes one rotation, one end 7a enters the space between the next grooves 9. In this way, as the refill container 2 continues to rotate, each of the grooves 9 is continuously pushed by the belt feed unit 7 toward the first hole 8 of the refill container 2.

[0109] As a result, the rotating belt feed unit 7 engages with the uneven portion 9 while sliding, and the belt member 6 is repeatedly fed out toward the first hole 8 of the refill container 2. One end 6a of the belt member 6 (extrusion portion 6a) moves toward the communicating first hole 8 and second hole 31 and protrudes from the first hole 8.

[0110] As one end 6a of the belt member 6 protrudes from the first hole 8 of the refill container 2, the one end 6a (extrusion portion 6a) of the belt member 6 pushes up the bottom plate member 3. As the bottom plate member 3 (lifting plate 3) rises, the contents move upward within the container 21 and are discharged from the discharge port 17 of the inner stopper 15.

[0111] Furthermore, it is possible to provide a ratchet mechanism or the like at the bottom of the refill container 2 and the bottom of the container 21 to make it easier to adjust the amount of contents dispensed. The same applies to the modified version of the first embodiment described later.

[0112] In this configuration, the belt member 6, when viewed from the side, has a roughly U-shape with one end 6a raised between the housing 21 and the cover 22, due to the belt groove 27a and side hole 30 of the housing 21 and the guide groove 38a and guide pieces 39a, 39b of the cover 22. With this configuration, the belt member 6 is smoothly guided when unrolled.

[0113] (3) When all the contents have been dispensed, the bottom plate member 3 will be at the highest position (upper opening 12) inside the refill container 2. At this time, the belt member 6 has pushed the bottom plate member 3 (lifting plate 3) up to its maximum extent, and the belt member 6 and the bottom plate member 3 will not move. The belt member 6, having finished rising, will be at the end position, and the refill container 2 will be finished to use.

[0114] When use is finished, the belt member 6 has one end 6a side facing upward from the first hole 8 and the second hole 31. It is in a fully extended state. In other words, in a lateral cross-sectional view of the molded container 1, the belt member 6 has a J-shape where one end 6a is higher than the other end 6b.

[0115] (4) Remove the used refill container 2 from the container 21. The belt member 6 is designed to move freely in the vertical direction when free. It is also possible to prevent the belt member 6 from coming off when the user is using it by adding a projection to the other end 6b, etc. The same applies to the modified version of the first embodiment described later.

[0116] The new refill container 2 is placed directly into the housing 21 and set to replace it. When the new refill container 2 is pushed into the housing 21 from above, the refill container 2 is filled with contents, and the bottom plate member 3 does not move upward because the outlet 17 provided on the inner lid 15 attached to the top of the refill 2 is further sealed.

[0117] Therefore, as soon as the refill container 2 is set in the housing 21, one end 6a of the belt member 6 lowers, so the belt member 6 returns to its starting position. In other words, in a lateral cross-sectional view of the molded container 1, the belt member 6 is arranged in an inverted J shape, with one end 6a lower than the other end 6b. This is the starting position for the new refill container 2.

[0118] Thus, when the refill container 2 is not set in the housing 21, the belt member 6 (protrusions and recesses 9) does not function as a screw. In other words, when replacing the refill container 2, the belt member 6 is free (can move freely up and down). This makes it possible to easily set the new refill container 2 into the housing 21.

[0119] In summary, the belt member 6 (protrusions and recesses 9) and the belt delivery unit 7 function as a screw, allowing for easy assembly of the molded container 1 simply by inserting the belt member 6 into the housing 21. A strong force, similar to that of a screw, is applied when pushing up the bottom plate member 3 (lifting plate 3). As a result, the molded container 1 of this embodiment can be used with simple operation by rotating the refill container 2 with minimal force.

[0120] Furthermore, because the belt member 6 (protrusions 9) and the refill container 2 (belt dispensing section 7) have a screw mechanism, a strong screw-like force acts between the protrusions 9 and the belt dispensing section 7 when dispensing the contents, making it possible to dispense the contents easily and smoothly with minimal effort.

[0121] Furthermore, with the molded container 1 of this embodiment, the assembly process of rotating screws, as with conventional containers using a screw structure, is unnecessary. This improves the ease of assembly of the molded container 1. Also, when the refill container 2 is not set in the housing 21, the belt member 6 is free, making it easy to attach and detach the refill container 2. [Modified version of the first embodiment] Figure 8 shows a schematic of a modified example of the first embodiment of the molded container 1 of the present invention. Figure 9 shows a schematic of the modified belt member 6.

[0122] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, this modified example differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the lifting mechanism 5. Specifically, this modified example differs from the first embodiment in the shape of the belt member 6, including its length and pitch. The other configurations, assembly method, and operation method of the molding container 1 are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0123] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the belt member 6 in this modified example is a long member whose longitudinal portion is bendable. In this modified example, the belt member 6 is longer than that of the first embodiment (approximately twice as long). The belt member 6 is positioned so that its bendable portion 6c abuts against the bottom plate member 3, protruding from the first hole 8 and the second hole 31.

[0124] Furthermore, the belt member 6 is provided at the bottom of the housing 21 and is positioned to pass through each of the two opposing side holes 30. One end 6a of the belt member 6 is bent upward and fitted into the belt groove 27a provided on the outer wall surface of the housing 21. The other end 6a abuts against the lower surface of the flange 24 of the housing 21 and is positioned vertically upward.

[0125] Similarly, the other end 6b of the belt member 6 is bent upward and fitted into the belt groove 27a provided on the outer wall surface of the housing 21. The other end 6b abuts against the lower surface of the flange portion 24 of the housing 21. In other words, the other end 6b is positioned vertically upward.

[0126] The belt member 6 is positioned such that the bent portion 6c protrudes from the first hole 8 and the second hole 31. Furthermore, one end 6a and the other end 6b are curved (in a W shape) in a side view of the molded container 1 and positioned on the outside of the housing 21. In other words, in this modified example, the bent portion 6c of the belt member 6 is the extrusion portion 6c that pushes up the bottom plate member 3.

[0127] Multiple uneven surfaces 9 are formed on the inner surface (surface) of the belt member 6. In this modified example, the uneven surfaces 9 have a first uneven surface 9a formed on one end 6a side (tip side) from the bent portion 6c (extruded portion 6c) of the belt member 6, and a second uneven surface 9b formed on the other end 6b side (rear end side).

[0128] The first and second protrusions 9a and 9b have different pitches, offset by one ridge when the belt member 6 is bent to create a bent portion 6c, as seen from the side. In other words, the first and second protrusions 9a and 9b are formed to be staggered when viewed from the side with the bent portion 6c. In this modified example, the belt feeding section 7 and the protrusions 9 of the belt member 6 have a screw-like structure.

[0129] The belt member 6 has a bent portion 6c that protrudes from the first hole 8 and the second hole 31, and the bent portion 6c is in contact with the recess 18 of the bottom plate member 3. When the belt member 6 is first used, in a lateral cross-sectional view of the molded container 1, it is positioned in the container 21 (outer container 4) such that the bent portion 6c is lower than one end 6a and the other end 6b, forming a W shape.

[0130] Four positioning sections 27 are provided on the outer circumferential wall of the housing 21 at equal intervals (90° apart). In this modified example, two of the positioning sections 27 are wider grooves 27a than the other two. These wider, elongated grooves 27a serve as belt grooves 27a that guide the belt member 6. The belt grooves 27a are provided at opposing positions (on opposite sides) to accommodate the elongated belt member 6.

[0131] One of the belt grooves 27a allows the belt member 6 at one end 6a to slide freely into the bent portion 6c where the first uneven portion 9a is formed. The other belt groove 27a allows the belt member 6 at the other end 6b to slide freely into the bent portion 6c where the second uneven portion 9b is formed.

[0132] Four elongated grooves 38 are provided on the inner circumferential wall of the cover body 22 at equal intervals (90° apart). Similarly, in this modified example, two of the elongated grooves 38 are wider than the other two grooves 38a. These wider elongated grooves 38a serve as guide grooves 38a corresponding to the belt grooves 27a. The guide grooves 38a are provided at opposing positions (on opposite sides) to correspond to the belt grooves 27a.

[0133] A rib-shaped guide piece 39 is provided at the bottom of the cover body 22. The guide piece 39 consists of a guide piece 39a formed on the guide groove 38a side and a guide piece 39b formed in the center of the bottom of the cover body 22. In this modified example, there are two guide pieces 39a and two guide pieces 39b, and they are provided at opposing positions (on opposite sides) to correspond to the belt member 6. [Operating mode] Next, the operating mode of the molded container 1 of this modified example will be explained with reference to the figure. <Assembly method> As shown in Figures 8 and 9, in this modified example, the belt member 6 is set by passing it through the side hole 30 of the housing 21. One end 6a of the belt member 6 is inserted into the side hole 30 provided at the bottom of the housing 21. The belt member 6 passes through the protruding portion 28 and towards the recess 29, and is inserted into the other side hole 30. The other end 6a passes through the other side hole 30 and out to the outside.

[0134] The middle of the belt member 6 in the longitudinal direction is bent upward. The bent portion 6c protrudes from the first hole 8 and the second hole 31, and is positioned vertically upward. The bent portion 6c abuts against the recess 18 of the bottom plate member 3.

[0135] On the other hand, one end 6a and the other end 6b of the belt member 6 are bent upward and fitted into the respective belt grooves 27a provided on the outer wall surface of the housing 21 and above the side holes 30. The one end 6a and the other end 6b abut against the lower surface of the flange 24 of the housing 21 and are positioned vertically upward.

[0136] The belt member 6 is arranged such that, in a lateral cross-sectional view of the molding container 1, the bent portion 6c is lower than both the one end 6a and the other end 6b, forming a W-shape. The housing to which this belt member 6 is assembled Set 21 into the cover 22. It is also possible to provide undercuts or locking mechanisms in the housing 21 and cover 22 to prevent them from coming loose during use by the user.

[0137] Furthermore, since the belt member 6 will try to return to its original straight shape, hold down one end 6a and the other end 6b of the belt member 6 with your fingers.

[0138] The positioning section 27 is aligned with the long groove section 38, and the belt groove 27a is aligned with the guide groove 38a, and the housing 21 is inserted into the cover 22. The housing 21 is then fixed in place in its position (orientation) within the cover 22.

[0139] Assemble the refill container 2. Insert the bottom plate member 3 into the refill container 2. The protruding portion 3a of the bottom plate member 3 is inserted into the first hole 8 of the refill container 2. The bottom plate member 3 is supported by a protrusion 19 provided on the bottom of the refill container 2. Fill the inside of the refill container 2 with contents. Close the upper opening 12 of the refill container 2 with the inner lid 15 (inner stopper 15) equipped with a discharge port 17.

[0140] The refill container 2 is slidably positioned around the inner circumference and vertically within the housing 21 and is removable. The belt member 6 is supported by two guide pieces 39a and 39b.

[0141] The refill container 2 is set inside the housing 21 to assemble the molded container 1. As the refill container 2 is lowered, the belt delivery section 7, which is shaped like a raised platform and is located at the bottom of the refill container 2, is inserted into the annular groove 32 located at the bottom of the housing 21. In this modified example, one end of the belt delivery section 7 abuts against the first protrusion 9a and engages with it, while the other end abuts against the second protrusion 9b and engages with it. Also, the bent portion 6c (extruded portion 6c) of the belt member 6 abuts against the recess 18 located below the bottom plate member 3. The bottom plate member 3 can be raised due to the contact with the belt member 6. <How to operate> When the refill container 2 is rotated, the single-turn spiral belt feed section 7 formed on the outside of the bottom of the refill container 2 rotates. The belt feed section 7 engages with the first protrusion 9a provided on one end 6a side from the bent portion 6c of the belt member 6, and the second protrusion 9b provided on the other end 6b side from the bent portion 6c.

[0142] As the refill container 2 continues to rotate, the rotating belt feed unit 7 slides and engages with the first and second protrusions 9a and 9b respectively, causing the bent portion 6c (mid-length portion) of the belt member 6 to be fed out toward the first hole 8 of the refill container 2, and the bent portion 6c protrudes from the first hole 8. This feeding operation of the belt member 6 is repeated.

[0143] When viewed from the side, the belt member 6 has a W-shape with a raised central bent portion 6c. As the bent portion 6c of the belt member 6 protrudes from the first hole 8 of the refill container 2, the bent portion 6c (extruded portion 6c) of the belt member 6 rises upward, pushing up the bottom plate member 3.

[0144] Furthermore, when the refill container 2 (inner container 2) is not set in the housing 21 (outer container 4) and is in an unattached state, the belt member 6 is free from the refill container 2, making it easy to remove the refill container 2.

[0145] The above method of setting the belt member 6 is just one example, and it can be set in other ways as well. For example, the middle of the belt member 6 in the longitudinal direction can be bent upward, and the bent portion 6c can be made to protrude from the first hole 8 and the second hole 31, passing through the side hole 30 to the outside. [Second Embodiment] Figure 10 shows a schematic of a second embodiment of the molded container 1 of the present invention. Figure 11 shows a schematic of the molded container 1 of the second embodiment when assembled.

[0146] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the lifting mechanism 5. Specifically, this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the shape of the protrusions 9 provided on the belt member 6 and the shape of the belt feeding section 7. The parts of the configuration, assembly method, and operation method of the molding container 1 that are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment will be briefly explained.

[0147] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, in this embodiment, the inner container 2 fits into the outer container 4. The inner container 2 is formed in the shape of a large, wide-mouthed bottle and is capable of containing semi-solid or paste-like cosmetics.

[0148] The inner container 2 has a bottomed cylindrical body 10 for containing cosmetics and the like, a flange 11 provided on the upper part of the body 10, and an upper opening 12 on the upper side of the body 10. A male screw portion 13 is provided around the upper outer wall of the inner container 2.

[0149] The flange portion 11 is provided to protrude outward from the upper opening 12. The flange portion 11 of the inner container 2 engages with the shoulder portion 24 provided on the housing 21 that constitutes the outer container 4, thereby supporting the inner container 2 on the housing 21.

[0150] In this embodiment, an inner lid 15 (internal stopper 15) is attached to the upper part of the inner container 2. The inner lid 15 closes the upper opening 12 of the inner container 2. The inner wall of the inner lid 15 is formed with a female threaded portion 16 that encircles it, into which a male threaded portion 13 provided on the inner container 2 is screwed. A discharge port 17 is provided in the center of the inner lid 15, which allows the contents of the inner container 2 to be discharged to the outside.

[0151] The bottom plate member 3 (lifting plate 3) is a disc-shaped member positioned at the bottom of the inner container 2 (body portion 10) and is movable upward. A protruding convex portion 3a is provided in the center of the back surface of the bottom plate member 3. A recess 18 is provided in this convex portion 3a. One end 6a of the belt member 6, which will be described later, abuts against this recess 18. When the belt member 6 is unfurled, the belt member 6 passes through the first hole portion 8 and one end 6a rises, causing the bottom plate member 3 to move upward via the recess 18 and be pushed up by the belt member 6.

[0152] A first hole 8 is provided in the center of the bottom of the inner container 2. In this embodiment, a protrusion 19 that extends upward is formed in the center of the bottom of the inner container 2. The first hole 8 is provided through the center of the protrusion 19. In other words, the protrusion 19 is a cylindrical member with the first hole 8 provided in it. Furthermore, the protrusion 19 serves as a support portion 19 that supports the bottom plate member 3.

[0153] The first hole 8 is a hole that penetrates the bottom of the inner container 2 in the vertical direction. The first hole 8 communicates the inside of the inner container 2 with the housing 21 side of the outer container 4. One end 6a of the belt member 6 is positioned to pass through the first hole 8. In addition, a belt groove 27a for guiding the belt member 6 is provided at the lower part of the first hole 8.

[0154] In this embodiment, the belt groove 27a is provided from the outer wall surface of the inner container 2 to the bottom. The belt groove 27a is a long groove that runs from the outer wall surface of the inner container 2 around the bottom and reaches the first hole 8.

[0155] The belt groove 27a is wide enough for the belt member 6 to fit into. Specifically, the belt groove 27a has a pair of protruding pieces on the left and right sides at a predetermined interval, and the belt member 6 is positioned in the groove between them so as to be able to slide vertically.

[0156] In other words, the belt groove 27a has a groove that guides the belt member 6, which constitutes the lifting mechanism 5, when it is being unfurled. The belt groove 27a guides the belt member 6 downward when it is being unfurled.

[0157] In this embodiment, the belt groove 27a is designed to fit into a projection 40 provided on the guide piece 39a inside the cover 22. The position of the inner container 2 inside the cover 22 is determined by the belt groove 27a fitting into the projection 40. In this embodiment, the belt groove 27a serves as a positioning part. As a result, the inner container 2 is fixed in the circumferential direction.

[0158] The belt member 6 in this embodiment is a flexible, elongated member, similar to that in the first embodiment. The belt member 6 is positioned so that one end 6a protrudes from the first hole 8. This one end 6a of the belt member 6 is positioned in contact with a recess 18 provided in the convex portion 3a of the bottom plate member 3.

[0159] The other end 6b of the belt member 6 is bent upward and fitted into the belt groove 27a provided on the outer wall surface of the inner container 2. The other end 6b abuts against the lower surface of the flange 11 of the housing 21. In other words, the other end 6b is positioned vertically upward.

[0160] The belt member 6 is positioned between the inner container 2 and the housing 21 (outer container 4) in a curved shape (U-shaped in a side view of the molded container 1). The belt member 6 pushes up the bottom plate member 3 from one end 6a. That is, one end 6a of the belt member 6 pushes up the bottom plate member 3 through extrusion. This is part 6a.

[0161] Unlike the first embodiment, the uneven portion 9 in this embodiment is formed as at least one ridge on the surface of the other end 6b of the belt member 6. The uneven portion 9 is positioned facing the housing 21 which is located on the outside, and is arranged to interlock with the belt feeding portion 7. In this embodiment, the uneven portion 9 is formed as two ridges on the outer surface (surface) of the other end 6b of the belt member 6.

[0162] The protrusions 9 (belt grooves) are provided on the inner circumferential surface of the container 21 so as to engage with multiple spiral-shaped (internal thread-shaped) belt delivery sections 7. Since the protrusions 9 can consist of just one groove, the amount by which the bottom plate member 3 is raised can be changed by adjusting the screw pitch of the belt delivery section 7. Furthermore, the height of the protrusions 9 (screw grooves) is determined arbitrarily based on factors such as the weight of the contents and the hardness and material of the inner container 2 (belt delivery section 7).

[0163] The belt delivery section 7 is spiral-shaped (whirlpool-shaped) with at least one turn in a plan view. In this embodiment, the belt delivery section 7 is formed on the inner wall surface of the housing 21 (outer container 4) and is a spiral with multiple turns that radiate downwards.

[0164] The belt feeding section 7 in this embodiment has an internal thread and is formed on the inner wall surface of the housing 21. In other words, the housing 21 in this embodiment is a ring member equipped with an internal thread (belt feeding section 7).

[0165] More specifically, the belt feed section 7 is formed on the inner wall surface of the housing 21 and is a spiral with multiple turns that extend downwards (formed like a screw thread). The belt feed section 7 interlocks with two-pronged protrusions 9 (screw threads) formed on the other end 6b side (outer surface) of the belt member 6. The size of the gap between the multiple spiral belt feed sections 7 is equal to one pitch of the protrusions 9. In other words, the multiple-turn spiral belt feed section 7 and the protrusions 9 of the belt member 6 have a screw-like structure.

[0166] When the cylindrical housing 21 is rotated, multiple spiral-shaped (internal thread-shaped) belt feeding sections 7 provided on the inner circumferential surface of the housing 21 rotate. The protrusions and recesses 9 provided on the other end 6b of the belt member 6 engage with the belt feeding sections 7. As the cylindrical housing 21 rotates, the protrusions and recesses 9 slide along the spiral of the belt feeding section 7 and move downward along the belt groove 27a.

[0167] When the belt feed unit 7 rotates once, the grooves 9 move down by one pitch, or the length of one screw thread, and the belt member 6 is fed out into the first hole 8 by that amount. In this way, the grooves 9 (the other end 6b) of the belt member 6 engages with the multiple spiral-shaped (internal screw-shaped) belt feed units 7, and slides down on the belt feed units 7. Meanwhile, the other end 6a (the extrusion end 6a) of the belt member 6 is pushed upward from the first hole 8, raising the bottom plate member 3 inside the inner container 2 by one pitch of the grooves 9.

[0168] The outer container 4 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape and has a wide-mouthed bottle shape into which the inner container 2 is fitted and housed from the outside. In this embodiment, the outer container 4 is a divided body consisting of an upper and lower part, and has a housing 21 that houses the inner container 2 and a cover 22 that houses the housing 21. In this embodiment, the outer container 4 is a divided body, but it may be a one-piece housing container.

[0169] The container 21 is formed in the shape of a wide-mouthed bottle, larger than the inner container 2. The container 21 has a cylindrical body 23 that houses the inner container 2, a shoulder portion 24 provided on the upper part of the body 23, and an upper opening 25 which is open on the upper side of the body 23.

[0170] The container 21 has a certain depth to accommodate the inner container 2. The shoulder portion 24 is provided so as to protrude outward from the upper opening 25. The shoulder portion 24 supports the inner container 2 when it is contained by engaging with the flange portion 11 of the inner container 2.

[0171] The housing 21 of this embodiment is provided with a plurality of spiral-shaped (internal thread-shaped) belt feeding sections 7 on its inner circumferential surface. In other words, the housing 21 of this embodiment is a ring member equipped with internal threads (belt feeding sections 7). A grip 41 is provided on the outer wall surface of the housing 21 to facilitate rotation of the housing 21.

[0172] The protrusions and indentations 9 provided on the other end 6b of the belt member 6 engage with a plurality of spiral-shaped (internal thread-shaped) belt delivery sections 7 provided on the housing 21, thereby allowing the inner container 2 to rotate within the housing 21 when stored.

[0173] The cover 22 is formed in the shape of a wide-mouthed bottle, larger than the container 21. The cover 22 has a bottomed cylindrical body 34 that accommodates the lower part of the container 21, a shoulder portion 35 provided on the upper part of the body 34, and an upper opening 36 which is open on the upper side of the body 34.

[0174] The torso 34 has a certain size to accommodate the housing 21. The shoulder portions 35 slidably contact the grips 41 of the housing 21 and rotatably support the housing 21 when it is housed. The cover 22 covers the lower outer part of the housing 21 to house it.

[0175] The outer container 4, consisting of the cover 22 and the containment 21, becomes one unit by covering and containing the outer surface of the inner container 2. In other words, the molded container 1 of this embodiment is a containment container with a triple-wall structure.

[0176] A rib-shaped guide piece 39 is provided at the bottom of the cover body 22. The guide piece 39 guides the belt member 6 when it is being unwound. In this embodiment, the guide piece 39 consists of a guide piece 39a formed on the guide groove 38a side and a guide piece 39b formed in the center of the bottom of the cover body 22.

[0177] More specifically, the guide piece 39a is roughly triangular in side view, and the slanted side that descends from the lower part of the belt groove 27a towards the center of the bottom of the cover body 22 is curved downwards. The guide piece 39b is the mirror image of the guide piece 39a (with a curved slanted side), and is located in the center of the bottom of the cover body 22, opposite the guide piece 39a.

[0178] In other words, the guide pieces 39a and 39b are arranged to be approximately U-shaped. The guide piece 39 smoothly guides the belt member 6, which is arranged in a U-shape during the assembly of the molded container 1, when it is unwound.

[0179] The guide piece 39a is provided with a projection 40 into which the belt groove 27a fits. When the belt groove 27a fits into the projection 40, the position of the inner container 2 on the cover 22 is determined and the inner container 2 is fixed in the circumferential direction.

[0180] Now, one end 6a of the belt member 6 is guided into the belt groove 27a and bent upward toward the first hole 8, with the one end 6a protruding from the first hole 8. The other end 6b of the belt member 6 is fitted into the belt groove 27a provided on the outer wall surface of the inner container 2, with the two-peaked protrusion 9 facing outward (towards the container 21).

[0181] The container 21 is covered and fitted into the body 22. The two-pronged protrusions 9 (screw threads) are engaged with the multiple spiral-shaped (internal thread-shaped) belt delivery sections 7, and the inner container 2 equipped with the belt member 6 is fitted into the container 21.

[0182] The belt member 6 is supported from the inside by the belt groove 27a and from the outside by the guide pieces 39a and 39b of the cover body 22. In this way, the belt member 6 is arranged in a U-shape (at the start of use, a J-shape where one end 6a is lower than the other end 6b) when viewed in a lateral cross-section of the molding container 1.

[0183] The belt member 6 is positioned between the container 21 and the cover 22 in a roughly U-shape by the belt groove 27a of the inner container 2 and the guide pieces 39a and 39b of the cover 22. When the container 21 is rotated, the two-pronged groove 9 (screw threads) that engage with the internally threaded belt feed section 7 move downward along the belt groove 27a, thereby smoothly guiding the belt member 6 during its deployment. [Operating mode] Next, the operation of the molding container 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to the figures. <Assembly method> As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the inner container 2 is assembled. That is, the belt member 6 is curved by being aligned with the belt groove 27a. One end 6a of the belt member 6 is inserted into the first hole 8 in the center of the bottom of the inner container 2. In other words, one end 6a of the belt member 6 passes through the first hole 8 and is positioned vertically upwards.

[0184] The other end 6b of the belt member 6 is fitted into the belt groove 27a. The other end 6b abuts against the lower surface of the flange portion 11 of the inner container 2 and is positioned vertically upward. The bottom plate member 3 is inserted into the inner container 2 and placed on the bottom of the body portion 10.

[0185] The bottom plate member 3 has a convex portion 3a located in the center of its back surface, which is located in the first hole 8 in the center of the bottom of the inner container 2. It is inserted inside. The bottom plate member 3 is supported by a protrusion 19 provided on the bottom of the body 10. The contents are filled into the inside of the inner container 2. The upper opening 12 of the inner container 2 is closed with an inner lid 15 (inner stopper 15) equipped with a discharge port 17.

[0186] The inner container 2, with the belt member 6 attached, is set into the outer container 4, which is made by fitting the storage body 21 into the cover body 22. That is, the upper storage body 21 is inserted into the cover body 22 from the side opening 36. The belt member 6 is attached to the inner container 2. The two-pronged protrusions 9 (screw threads) are engaged with the multiple spiral-shaped (internal thread-shaped) belt feeding parts 7, and the inner container 2 with the belt member 6 is fitted into the storage body 21. Note that the belt member 6 tries to return to its original straight shape, so when fitting the inner container 2, hold down the other end 6b of the belt member 6 with your finger.

[0187] The belt groove 27a of the inner container 2 fits into the projection 40 provided on the guide piece 39a of the cover body 2, thereby determining the position of the inner container 2 on the cover body 22 and fixing it in the circumferential direction.

[0188] The belt member 6 is supported from the inside by the belt groove 27a and from the outside by the guide pieces 39a and 39b of the cover body 22. In this way, the belt member 6 is arranged in a U-shape (at the start of use, a J-shape where one end 6a is lower than the other end 6b) when viewed in a lateral cross-section of the molding container 1. <How to operate> When first used, the belt member 6 is positioned with its other end 6b extending upward within the belt groove 27a. In other words, in a lateral cross-sectional view of the molding container 1, the belt member 6 is arranged in a J-shape (inverted J-shape in the drawing) where one end 6a is lower than the other end 6b.

[0189] When the cylindrical housing 21 is rotated, the multi-turn spiral (internal thread) belt feed section 7 formed on the inner wall surface of the housing 21 rotates. The two-peaked protrusions 9 provided on the other end 6b of the belt member 6 engage with the internal thread belt feed section 7.

[0190] The uneven portion 9 rotates along the spiral of the belt delivery section 7 as the cylindrical housing 21 rotates, and moves downward along the belt groove 27a. The belt member 6 is guided to the first hole 8 by the belt groove 27a of the inner container 2 and the guide pieces 39a and 39b of the cover body 22.

[0191] When the cylindrical housing 21 rotates once, the grooves 9 that engage with the belt feed section 7 move down by one pitch, or the length of one screw thread, so that the belt member 6 is fed out into the first hole 8 by that amount.

[0192] As the housing 21 continues to rotate, the uneven portion 9 (the other end 6b) of the belt member 6 engages with the multiple helical (internal thread) belt feeding portions 7, and as a result, it slides along the belt feeding portions 7 and descends along the belt groove 27a.

[0193] On the other hand, one end 6a (extruded portion 6a) of the belt member 6 is pushed upward from the first hole 8 of the inner container 2, raising the bottom plate member 3 (lifting plate 3) inside the inner container 2 by one pitch of the uneven portion 9.

[0194] In this way, when the housing 21 is rotated, the two-pronged groove 9 (threads) that engage with the internally threaded belt feeding section 7 slide on the belt feeding section 7 and move downward along the belt groove 27a, thereby smoothly guiding the belt member 6 when it is fed out.

[0195] When use is finished, the belt member 6 is fully extended upward from the first hole 8 at one end 6a. In other words, in a lateral cross-sectional view of the molding container 1, the belt member 6 has a J-shape where one end 6a is higher than the other end 6b.

[0196] As described above, the molded container 1 of the present invention is provided with a bottom plate member 3 at the bottom of the refill container 2 (inner container 2) that contains the contents, and a lifting mechanism 5 that moves the bottom plate member 3 upward, and by simplifying the assembly of the parts that make up the lifting mechanism 5, the bottom plate member 3 can be easily and smoothly pushed up, and all of the contents can be used up.

[0197] In other words, the lifting mechanism 5 of the present invention includes a belt member 6 whose one end 6a abuts against the bottom plate member 3 and pushes up the bottom plate member 3 by raising the one end 6a; an uneven portion 9 formed on the surface of the belt member 6; a belt feeding portion 7 that engages with the uneven portion 9 to feed out the belt member 6 and raise the one end 6a; and a first hole portion 8 provided in the center of the bottom of the refill container 2 (inner container 2) through which the one end 6a of the belt member 6 is positioned.

[0198] As a result, the belt member 6 (protrusions 9) and the refill container 2 (belt dispensing section 7) function as a screw, and when dispensing the contents, a strong screw-like force acts between the protrusions 9 and the belt dispensing section 7, making it possible to dispense the contents easily and smoothly with minimal effort.

[0199] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. In particular, matters not explicitly stated in the embodiments disclosed herein, such as operating conditions, handling conditions, dimensions of components, and weight, do not deviate from what is normally practiced by those skilled in the art, and are matters that can be easily anticipated by those skilled in the art.

[0200] Furthermore, variations in the form of the molded container 1 of the present invention can be applied to, for example, jar containers, lipstick, lip balm, glue, and other stick-shaped containers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0201] 1 Molded container 2. Inner container (refill container) 3. Bottom plate component (lifting plate) 4 Outer container 5. Lifting mechanism 6 Belt component 6a One end (extruded portion) 6b other end 6c Bending section (extruded section) 7 Belt delivery section 7a One end 7b other end 8 First hole 9. Recessed parts (screw threads) 9a 1st uneven part 9b Second uneven part 15. Inner lid 17 Discharge port 20 gaps 21. Container (outer container) 22 Covering (outer container) 27 Positioning section 27a Belt groove 30 Side hole 31 2nd hole 32 Annular groove 38 Long groove part 38a Guide groove 39a Guide piece 39b Guide piece

Claims

1. A bottomed cylindrical inner container into which contents can be inserted, A bottom plate member, which is disposed inside the inner container and is movable upward, An outer container that houses the aforementioned inner container inside, It has a lifting mechanism that moves the bottom plate member upward. The lifting mechanism includes a belt member whose one end abuts against the bottom plate member and which pushes up the bottom plate member by raising that end, A first hole is provided in the center of the bottom of the inner container, through which one end of the belt member is positioned, The uneven surface formed on the belt member, The belt feeding unit engages with the aforementioned uneven portion to feed out the belt member and raise one end of it. A molded container characterized by the following features.

2. A second hole is provided in the center of the bottom of the outer container, communicating with the first hole. The belt member is flexible, with one end protruding from the first and second holes and in contact with the bottom plate member, and is arranged on the outside of the outer container in a curved shape when viewed from the side. The belt delivery section is formed on the outside of the bottom of the inner container and is a single spiral with a gap formed between one end and the other end, each being offset by a certain amount. The aforementioned protrusions and recesses are formed in multiple locations on the surface of the belt member and are arranged to fit into the gaps in the belt feeding section and interlock. The molded container according to feature 1.

3. The belt member is a long member whose longitudinal portion is bendable, and the bendable portion is positioned to protrude from the first hole and the second hole so as to abut against the bottom plate member. The aforementioned uneven portion has a first uneven portion formed on one end side of the bent portion of the belt member and a second uneven portion formed on the other end side. The first and second uneven portions are set to different pitches, offset by one ridge when the belt member is bent to form the bent portion, as seen from the side. The molded container according to feature 2.

4. When the inner container is not attached to the outer container, the belt member is free from the inner container, and the inner container is configured to be detachable. The molded container according to feature 2 or 3.

5. The belt member is flexible, with one end protruding from the first hole and in contact with the bottom plate member, and is positioned between the inner container and the outer container in a curved manner. The belt delivery section is formed on the inner wall surface of the outer container and is a spiral with multiple turns that extend downwards. The aforementioned uneven portion is formed on the surface of the other end of the belt member, with at least one ridge, and is arranged to engage with the belt feeding portion. The molded container according to feature 1.

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