Connectable container and container assembly including the connectable container

Abstract

A container according to embodiments of the present disclosure is a container comprising a housing for receiving contents and a port connected to the housing, wherein the port comprises a main body portion, a connecting portion extending from below the main body portion and inserted into an opening of the housing, an inlet portion extending from above the main body portion and communicating with the main body portion and the connecting portion, and a cap covering the inlet portion, wherein the main body portion has a plug and a channel having a shape corresponding to the plug and located opposite the plug in a first direction intersecting a second direction which is the width direction of the housing, and the container may be coupled with another container by inserting the plug into the channel of another container or inserting the plug of another container into the channel.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a combinable container and a container assembly comprising the same. Background Technology

[0002] Among various types of containers, there are those made of deformable materials designed to store fluids (liquids, gels, pastes, etc.) or powders for convenient use, and which include a spout at the opening. These containers are used for a wide range of products, including beverages, food, cosmetics, and detergents, and are designed to allow for easy pouring of the contents. Therefore, unlike conventional containers with fixed shapes (such as glass, rigid plastic, or ceramics), these containers are made of deformable materials and have a flat shape, allowing the user to easily dispense the contents by applying pressure. However, such containers present the following problems during storage and use.

[0003] First, due to its shape, the container cannot be stood upright and must be stored lying down with the wider side facing down. This results in a large surface area in contact with contaminated or damp surfaces, which is unhygienic. Additionally, storing it horizontally can cause the container to tear or deform due to collisions with or pressure from other objects, and the contents may shift towards the opening, causing inconvenience for the user when holding the container to dispense the contents. Furthermore, when storing multiple containers, the movement of the contents causes the shapes to become uneven, resulting in unstable stacking that makes organization and storage difficult.

[0004] The information described above disclosed in the background technology of this invention is intended only to enhance understanding of the background of the present invention and may therefore include information that does not constitute prior art. Prior art literature

[0005] Korean Registered Patent Publication KR 2322750 B1 The problem to be solved

[0006] The present disclosure is intended to solve the aforementioned problems and can provide a container and a container assembly including the same, which can be used to store and use multiple containers by connecting them to each other and standing them upright by including a structure that can be connected to each other.

[0007] However, the technical problems that the embodiments of the present disclosure aim to solve are not limited to those described above, and other unmentioned problems can be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description of the invention below. means of solving the problem

[0008] A container according to embodiments of the present disclosure is a container comprising a housing for receiving contents and a port connected to the housing, wherein the port comprises a main body portion, a connecting portion extending from below the main body portion and inserted into an opening of the housing, an inlet portion extending from above the main body portion and communicating with the main body portion and the connecting portion, and a cap covering the inlet portion, wherein the main body portion has a plug and a channel having a shape corresponding to the plug and located opposite the plug in a first direction intersecting a second direction which is the width direction of the housing, and the container may be coupled with another container by inserting the plug into the channel of another container or inserting the plug of another container into the channel.

[0009] When the plug is inserted into the channel of another container, the outer surface of the plug can come into contact with the inner surface of the channel of another port and be fitted into the channel.

[0010] The plug includes one or more outer protrusions on its outer surface, and the channel includes one or more inner grooves on its inner surface, and the distance from the tip of the plug to the one or more outer protrusions may be equal to the distance from the inner end surface of the channel to the one or more inner grooves.

[0011] The above one or more external protrusions may include a plurality of external protrusions on the upper surface, lower surface, and both sides of the plug.

[0012] The above channel may have a cross-sectional shape of any one of polygonal, H-shaped, cross-shaped, circular, and elliptical.

[0013] The channel comprises a plurality of vertical openings spaced apart from each other and one or more horizontal openings connecting the plurality of vertical openings, and the channel comprises a plurality of insertion protrusions inserted between the plurality of vertical openings, and at least some of the one or more outer protrusions may be formed on a surface facing the insertion protrusion of the plug.

[0014] One or more of the above-mentioned outer protrusions may cross the outer surface of the plug.

[0015] The above plug has elasticity and includes a plurality of spaced-apart segments, and each of the plurality of segments may include a coupling projection on its outer surface.

[0016] The plug may include a plurality of slits on its outer surface, and the channel may include a plurality of connecting ribs on its inner surface corresponding to the plurality of slits.

[0017] A container assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is a container assembly comprising a plurality of containers, wherein each container comprises a housing for receiving contents and a port connected to the housing, and the port comprises a main body portion, a connecting portion extending from below the main body portion and inserted into an opening of the housing, an inlet portion extending from above the main body portion and communicating with the main body portion and the connecting portion, and a cap covering the inlet portion, wherein the main body portion has a plug and a channel having a shape corresponding to the plug and located opposite the plug in a first direction intersecting a second direction which is the width direction of the housing, and the container may be coupled with another container by inserting the plug into the channel of another container or inserting the plug of another container into the channel. Effects of the invention

[0018] A container and a container assembly including the same according to embodiments of the present disclosure can connect a plurality of containers to each other by including a channel included in the container that comprises a plug and a channel. Accordingly, a plurality of containers can be stored upright in a stable manner.

[0019] A container according to the embodiments of the present disclosure and a container assembly including the same can stack containers compactly by joining the containers together in a direction intersecting the width direction of the housing.

[0020] A container and a container assembly including the same according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include various shapes of plugs, channels, outer protrusions, and inner grooves to increase the bonding force between containers. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0021] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate embodiments of the present invention and serve to facilitate an understanding of the technical concept of the present invention in conjunction with the description of the invention provided below. The present invention is not to be interpreted as being limited to the matters described in the drawings. FIG. 1 shows a container according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 shows an exploded view of Figure 1. FIG. 3 shows a port according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4 shows a cross-section along IV-IV' of Figure 3. FIG. 5 shows a cap according to embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 shows the state of combining containers according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7 shows a container assembly in which the containers of Figure 6 are combined with each other. Figure 8 shows a cross-section of the port of Figure 7. FIG. 9 shows a container assembly in which containers according to embodiments of the present disclosure are combined with each other. FIG. 10 shows a channel and a plug according to embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 shows a plug and an outer projection according to embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 shows an outer projection and an inner groove, a connecting projection and an inner groove, a slit and a connecting rib according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0022] Embodiments of the present disclosure and methods for achieving them may be more easily understood by referring to the detailed description of the embodiments together with the accompanying drawings. Embodiments are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the described embodiments are subject to various modifications and may be implemented in different forms and are not to be interpreted as being limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, the features of each of the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be combined with one another wholly or partially, and technically, various interlocking and operation are possible. Each embodiment may be implemented independently of one another or combined and implemented together. The described embodiments are provided as examples to make the present disclosure complete and to fully convey the spirit of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. The present disclosure should be understood to include all variations and equivalents and substitutions are possible within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, processes, components, and techniques that are not necessary to a person skilled in the art for a complete understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure may not be described.

[0023] Unless otherwise noted, the same reference numerals, characters, or combinations thereof throughout the attached drawings and descriptions represent the same components, and descriptions thereof are omitted. Additionally, irrelevant parts may be omitted from the drawings to clarify the explanation when describing the embodiments.

[0024] The areas depicted in the drawings are schematic and their shapes do not represent or limit the actual shape of the device area. Relative sizes of elements, layers, and areas in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity. Additionally, the use of hatching and / or shading in the attached drawings may generally be provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Therefore, unless specifically limited, the presence or absence of hatching or shading does not indicate a preference or requirement for a particular material, material properties, dimensions, proportions, commonalities between the depicted elements, or other characteristics, attributes, properties, etc.

[0025] Various embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional examples, which are schematic examples of embodiments and / or intermediate structures. For example, the shapes in the drawings may vary as a result of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Furthermore, specific structural or functional descriptions disclosed herein are merely examples for explaining embodiments according to the concept of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed herein should be interpreted as not being limited to the shapes of the illustrated areas and including variations in shape due to manufacturing processes, etc.

[0026] Specific details may be provided in the specification to facilitate understanding of various embodiments. Alternatively, various embodiments may be implemented without specific details or with one or more details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices may be illustrated in the form of block diagrams to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various embodiments.

[0027] To facilitate explanation and to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as illustrated in the drawings, spatially relative terms such as "below," "above," "lower," and "upper" may be used. Spatially relative terms are intended to include various directions of the device in use or operation in addition to the directions depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings is inverted, another element or feature described as "below" or "lower" will face "above" the other element or feature. Thus, as exemplary terms, "below" and "lower" may include both upper and lower directions. The device may face other directions (e.g., a 90-degree rotation or other directions), and spatially relative descriptions used herein should be interpreted accordingly. Likewise, if it is stated that the first part is positioned "above" the second part, this means that the first part is positioned on the upper or lower side of the second part.

[0028] Additionally, the expression “viewed in plan” means the case where the object is viewed from above, and the expression “in a schematic section” means the case where a schematic section is taken by cutting the object vertically or horizontally. The term “viewed in side” means that the first object may be above, below, or to the side of the second object, and vice versa. Furthermore, the terms “overlap” or “superimposition” may include layer, stack, plane, extension, cover, or partial cover, or any other suitable term that a person skilled in the art understands and can understand. The expression “not overlapping” may include meanings such as “away from” or “separated from” and any other suitable equivalents recognized and understood by a person skilled in the art. The terms “plane” and “surface” may mean that the first object may be directly or indirectly opposite the second object. In the case where a third object is located between a first object and a second object, the first object and the second object may be understood as facing each other but indirectly opposing each other.

[0029] When an element, layer, region, or component (hereinafter also referred to as "element, etc.") is described as being "formed," "connected," or "combined" with another element, etc., this includes the possibility that it may be directly formed in the element, etc., formed in the other element, etc., indirectly formed in the other element, etc., connected, or combined. Furthermore, "formed," "connected," or "combined" may collectively refer to direct or indirect combination or connection of elements, etc., or integral or non-integral combination or connection, so that one or more elements, etc. may exist. For example, when an element, etc. is described as being "electrically connected" or "electrically combined" with another element, etc., this includes the possibility that it may be directly electrically connected or combined with the other element, etc., or that other elements, etc. exist. However, "direct connection" or "direct combination" means that one element, etc. is directly connected or combined with another element, etc., without an intermediate element, etc., or is located in another element, etc. Additionally, in this specification, when a part of a layer, film, region, guide plate, etc., is formed in another part, the direction of formation is not limited to the upward direction, but includes the possibility that the part is formed on the side or bottom. Conversely, when a part of a layer, film, region, guide plate, etc. is formed "below" another part, it includes not only the case where that part is "immediately below" the other part, but also the case where there is another part between the part and the other part. Meanwhile, other expressions describing the relationship of elements, such as "between," "immediately between," or "adjacent to" and "immediately adjacent to," may be interpreted similarly. Furthermore, when an element, etc. is referred to as being between two elements, etc., it may be the only element, etc. between the two elements, etc., or there may be another element, etc. between them.

[0030] Expressions such as “at least one” or “any one” do not limit the order of individual elements. For example, “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” “at least one of X, Y, or Z,” and “at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z” may include X alone, Y alone, Z alone, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z. Similarly, expressions such as “at least one of A and B” and “at least one of A or B” may include A, B, or A and B. In this specification, the term “and / or” generally includes any combination of one or more related list items. For example, expressions such as “A and / or B” may include A, B, or A and B.

[0031] Terms such as "first," "second," and "third" may be used herein to describe various elements, but such elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, etc. from another. Accordingly, the first element, etc. described below may be referred to as the second, etc. without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Describing an element as the "first" element does not require or imply the existence of a second element or other elements. Terms such as "first," "second," etc. may also be used in this specification to distinguish different categories or sets of elements, etc. For clarity, terms such as "first," "second," etc. may each represent "first category (or first set)," "second category (or second set)," etc.

[0032] The terms used herein are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the disclosure. Singular expressions used herein may include plural expressions, and plural expressions may include singular forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “include,” “comprising,” and “have” mean to specify the presence of the features, integers, and steps specified herein. These expressions do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other functions, steps, operations, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0033] Where one or more embodiments may be implemented differently, a specific process sequence may be performed differently from the described order. For example, two processes described consecutively may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of the described order.

[0034] The terms "substantially," "approximately," "roughly," and similar terms are used as terms of approximation rather than terms of degree, and signify satisfying the range of implied deviation of the measured or calculated value (e.g., the range of deviation due to the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "approximately" may mean within one or more standard deviations or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, or ±5% of the specified value.

[0035] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with that meaning in the context of the relevant technology and / or this specification, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0036] FIG. 1 shows a container (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of FIG. 1, FIG. 3 shows a port (10) according to embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 4 shows a cross-section according to IV-IV' of FIG. 3, FIG. 5 shows a cap (140) according to embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 6 shows a state in which containers (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure are joined together, FIG. 7 shows a container assembly (2) in which containers (1) of FIG. 6 are joined together, FIG. 8 shows a cross-section of the port (10) of FIG. 7, and FIG. 9 shows a container assembly (2) in which containers (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure are joined together.

[0037] A container (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure can receive and dispense contents. A container (1) can be combined with another container (1) to form a container assembly (2). When combined with another container (1), the container (1) can be maintained upright on a floor surface without other auxiliary devices or without being held by another user. For example, the container (1) may be a spout pouch. The container (1) may be used for cosmetics, food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, etc.

[0038] A container (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure comprises a housing (20) for receiving contents and a port (10) connected to the housing (20), wherein the port (10) comprises a main body portion (110), a connecting portion (130) extending from below the main body portion (110) and inserted into an opening (201) of the housing (20), an inlet portion (120) extending from above the main body portion (110) and communicating with the main body portion (110) and the connecting portion (130), and a cap (140) covering the inlet portion (120), wherein the main body portion (110) has a shape corresponding to the plug (114) and includes a channel (111) on the opposite side of the plug (114) in a first direction intersecting with a second direction which is the width direction of the housing (20), and wherein the container (1) is such that the plug (114) is inserted into the channel (111) of another container (1) or A plug (114) of another container (1) can be inserted into the channel (111) to enable combination with another container (1).

[0039] A container assembly (2) according to embodiments of the present disclosure is a container assembly (2) comprising a plurality of containers (1), a housing (20) for receiving contents, and a port (10) connected to the housing (20). The port (10) comprises a main body portion (110), a connecting portion (130) extending from below the main body portion (110) and inserted into an opening (201) of the housing (20), an inlet portion (120) extending from above the main body portion (110) and communicating with the main body portion (110) and the connecting portion (130), and a cap (140) covering the inlet portion (120). The main body portion (110) has a plug (114) and a channel (111) having a shape corresponding to the plug (114) and a first direction that intersects the second direction, which is the width direction of the housing (20), on the opposite side of the plug (114). The container (1) is such that the plug (114) is of another container (1). A plug (114) of another container (1) may be inserted into the channel (111) or inserted into the channel (111) to be combined with another container (1).

[0040] A container (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a port (10) and a housing (20).

[0041] First, the housing (20) is described as being capable of containing contents inside. The housing (20) may include a deformable material so that the user can press or deform the housing (20) to discharge the contents out of the port (10). For example, the receiving portion (200) may include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), nylon or polyamide (PA), aluminum foil, ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH), a multilayer film structure of one or more of these, or one or more of these. In addition, the housing (20) may include a flexible and deformable material depending on the characteristics of the contents and storage conditions.

[0042] The contents contained in the housing (20) may include food, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, health supplements, and other industrial or household products. For example, the contents contained in the housing (20) may include liquids or powders of various viscosities or small-sized pellets. The housing (20) may include an internal space for containing these contents.

[0043] The housing (20) can be connected to the port (10). The housing (20) may include an opening (201) at the top that is connected to the port (10). For example, the housing (20) may be formed by bonding two or more thin films together and may include an opening (201) at the top to which the port (10) is connected. The port (10) (e.g., the connecting part (130) of the port (10)) is inserted into the opening (201), and the opening (201) may communicate with the internal space of the housing (20).

[0044] The housing (20) may have a flat shape or at least a shape with a narrow surface that contacts the bottom. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the housing (20) may have a thin pouch shape that cannot be stood upright on the bottom surface by itself. The container (1) according to the embodiments of the present disclosure may be combined with another container (1) so that the housing (20) of this shape can also be stood upright on the bottom.

[0045] The port (10) can be connected to the housing (20) as a part from which the contents of the container (1) are discharged. The port (10) is connected to the opening (201) of the housing (20), and the contents can be discharged out of the port (10) by the user pressing the housing (20) or by turning the port (10) downward. The port (10) can be connected to the port (10) of another container (1). For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the port (10) contained in one container (1) can be connected to each of the ports (10) contained in one or more other containers (1). By doing so, multiple containers (1) can be combined with each other. With the ports (10) connected to each other, the containers (1) can be stood upright on the floor. Therefore, the user can use the container (1) by placing it on the floor and removing the cap (140) without having to hold the container (1) while using it. In addition, multiple containers (1) can be stored upright on the floor surface instead of lying down.

[0046] The port (10) may include a passage (101). As shown in FIG. 4, the passage (101) may include a first passage (118) of the main body part (110) described later, a second passage (121) of the inlet part (120), and a third passage (133) of the connecting part (130). The passage (101) communicates with the opening (201) of the housing (20), and contents may be discharged to the outside of the container (1) through the passage (101). Alternatively, an applicator (141) of the cap (140) may be inserted into the passage (101).

[0047] The port (10) may include a main body (110), an inlet (120), a connection (130), and a cap (140).

[0048] The main body (110) can support other components of the port (10) (e.g., the inlet part (120), the connection part (130), and the cap (140)). The main body (110) is located between the inlet part (120) and the connection part (130) and can be connected to the main body (110) of another port (10). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the inlet part (120) may be located on the upper surface of the main body (110) and the connection part (130) may be located on the lower surface.

[0049] The main body (110) may include a channel (111), a first guide (112), an inner groove (113), a plug (114), an outer projection (115), an upper support piece (116), a lower support piece (117), a first passage (118), and a second guide (119).

[0050] The channel (111) is an empty space formed inside the main body (110), and a plug (114) of a port (10) contained in another container (1) can be inserted into the channel (111). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the channel (111) is formed inside the main body (110), and a plug (114) contained in a port (10) of another container (1) can be inserted therein. The channel (111) and the plug (114) have corresponding shapes and sizes and can be fitted together. For example, the channel (111) and the plug (114) may have (substantially) the same cross-sectional shape (e.g., the ZX cross-section in FIG. 3). Therefore, when a plug (114) of another container (1) is inserted into a channel (111) of one container (1), the outer surface of the plug (114) comes into contact with the inner surface of the channel (111), so that the ports (10) can be connected to each other. The channel (111) may not be in communication with the passage (101). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the channel (111) may have a rectangular shape.

[0051] The first guide (112) is located on the inlet side of the channel (111) and can allow the plug (114) to be smoothly inserted into the channel (111). For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first guide (112) may be an inclined surface formed on the inlet side edge of the channel (111). When the plug (114) is inserted into the channel (111), the edge of the plug (114) or the second guide (119) may come into contact with the first guide (112). Thus, the plug (114) and the channel (111) are positioned, and the plug (114) can be stably inserted into the channel (111).

[0052] An inner groove (113) may be formed on the inner surface of the channel (111). When the plug (114) is inserted into the channel (111), the outer projection (115) of the plug (114) is seated in the inner groove (113), thereby preventing the plug (114) from being dislodged from the channel (111). The inner groove (113) may include one or more inner grooves (113). The number, location, size, and / or shape of the one or more inner grooves (113) may correspond to one or more outer projections (115) formed on the plug (114). As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the inner groove (113) may be formed on the inner upper surface and the inner lower surface of the channel (111), respectively.

[0053] The plug (114) is located on the opposite side of the channel (111) and may have a size and / or shape corresponding to the channel (111). For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the plug (114) may be on the opposite side of the channel (111) in the thickness direction of the port (10) (or the first direction or the Y-axis direction in FIGS. 3 and 4). The plug (114) extends in the first direction and may be inserted into the channel (111) of the port (10) contained in another container (1). The plug (114) and the channel (111) may be fitted together so that different containers (1) can be joined together. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the plug (114) may have a rectangular shape. When the plug (114) is inserted into the channel (111), the outer surface of the plug (114) (e.g., the top surface, bottom surface, two sides, and the front surface) may come into contact with the inner surface of the channel (111). When the plug (114) is inserted into the channel (111) of another container (1), the outer surface of the plug (114) may come into contact with the inner surface of the channel (111) of another port (10) to be fitted into the channel (111).

[0054] The outer projections (115) are formed on the plug (114) and may have a number, size, and / or shape corresponding to the inner groove (113). When the plug (114) is inserted into the channel (111) and reaches a predetermined position, the outer projections (115) are inserted into the inner groove (113) to prevent the plug (114) from coming out of the channel (111). The outer projections (115) may include one or more outer projections (115). For example, the outer projections (115) may be formed on the upper and lower surfaces of the plug (114), respectively. The combination of the outer projections (115) and the inner groove (113) may prevent the containers (1) from being separated along with the combination of the plug (114) and the channel (111). For example, the outer projections (115) may be hemispherical or dome-shaped.

[0055] The main body (110) may include a deformable material. Therefore, when the plug (114) is inserted into the channel (111) and fitted, it may be temporarily deformed by being pressed against the inner surface of the channel (111) by the outer projection (115). Additionally, movement of the plug (114) may be allowed so that the outer projection (115) is inserted into the inner groove (113).

[0056] The distance from the tip of the plug (114) to the outer projection (115) may be equal to the distance from the inner end surface of the channel (111) to the inner groove (113). That is, the distance from the end surface of the plug (114) to the outer projection (115) in the first direction in which the plug (114) is inserted into the channel (111) may be equal to the distance from the inner end surface of the deepest part of the channel (111) (or the side surface of the first passage (101)) to the inner groove (113). Therefore, when a user inserts the plug (114) of one container (1) into the channel (111) of another container (1), the tip of the plug (114) comes into contact with the inner end surface of the channel (111), and the outer projection (115) is also inserted into the inner groove (113). Therefore, the user can seat the outer projection (115) in the inner groove (113) simply by inserting the plug (114) all the way into the channel (111), without needing to finely adjust the insertion depth of the plug (114).

[0057] In another embodiment, one or more outer protrusions (115) may be formed on the front end surface of the plug (114). For example, as shown in FIG. 4, one or more outer protrusions (115) may be formed on the cross-section in the first direction. Additionally, one or more inner grooves (113) may be formed on the inner cross-section of the channel (111) to correspond to one or more outer protrusions (115). These one or more outer protrusions (115) and inner grooves (113) allow the channel (111) and the plug (114) to be easily positioned and increase the fastening force between the channel (111) and the plug (114).

[0058] The upper support piece (116) may extend from the upper surface of the main body (110) in the width direction of the port (10) (or the X-axis direction of FIG. 3 or the second direction). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the upper support piece (116) may extend from the upper surface of the main body (110) in the second direction and may protrude further than the side of the main body (110). The upper support piece (116) may allow the user to carry the container (1) by gripping the upper support piece (116) in addition to gripping the housing (20) when gripping the container (1).

[0059] The lower support piece (117) may extend from the lower surface of the main body (110) in the width direction of the port (10) (or the X-axis direction of FIG. 3 or the second direction). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the lower support piece (116) may extend from the upper surface of the main body (110) in the second direction and may protrude further than the side of the main body (110). The lower support piece (116) may come into contact with the upper end of the connecting part (130). The lower support piece (116) may allow the main body (110) to be supported by the connecting part (130), thereby preventing the main body (110) and the port (10) containing it from moving. As shown in FIG. 3, the lower support piece (117) may protrude further in the second direction than the upper support piece (116).

[0060] The upper support member (116) and the lower support member (117) may be spaced apart in the height direction of the port (10) (or in the Z-axis direction or third direction of FIG. 3). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, there may be a gap between the upper support member (116) and the lower support member (117). A support frame, etc., may be positioned in the gap to store and organize the container (1), or a user may insert their finger to grip the container (1).

[0061] The first passage (118) is an internal passage of the main body (110) and can communicate with the second passage (121) of the entrance part (120) and the third passage (133) of the connecting part (130). For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the first passage (118) may be below the second passage (121) and above the third passage (133).

[0062] The second guide (119) is located on the inlet side of the plug (114) and can allow the plug (114) to be smoothly inserted into the channel (111). For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the second guide (119) may be an inclined surface formed on the inlet side edge of the plug (114). The second guide (119) may have a shape corresponding to the first guide (112). When the plug (114) is inserted into the channel (111), the second guide (119) may come into contact with the first guide (112). Thus, the plug (114) and the channel (111) are positioned, and the plug (114) can be stably inserted into the channel (111).

[0063] The inlet portion (120) is located above the main body portion (110) and can be connected to a cap (140). For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the inlet portion (120) can extend upward from the upper surface of the main body portion (110) (or in the Z-axis direction of FIG. 2 or in a third direction). The inlet portion (120) may be hollow inside so that contents can move. The inlet portion (120) communicates with the main body portion (110) and the connecting portion (130), and contents can flow out from the housing (20), pass through the connecting portion (130) and the main body portion (110), and be discharged to the outside through the inlet portion (120). A cap (140) may be detachably connected to the inlet portion (120). For example, the inlet portion (120) may have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0064] The entrance portion (120) may include a second passage (121) and a screw thread (122).

[0065] The second passage (121) is partitioned by the inner surface of the entrance portion (120) and may be a passage through which contents move. The second passage (121) may be connected to the first passage (118) of the main body portion (110).

[0066] The screw thread (122) is on the outer surface of the inlet portion (120) and can be coupled with the screw thread of the cap (140).

[0067] The connecting portion (130) is located below the main body portion (110) and can be connected to the housing (20). For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the connecting portion (130) can extend downward from the bottom surface of the main body portion (110) (for example, in the Z-axis direction of FIG. 2). The connecting portion (130) may have a convex shape facing both sides of the housing (20) (for example, the front and rear sides in the Y-axis direction of FIG. 2 or both sides in the first direction). Thus, the contact area between the connecting portion (130) and the housing (20) can be widened so that the port (10) is firmly connected to the housing (20), and the connecting portion (130) can be subjected to uniform stress to prevent deformation or damage.

[0068] The connecting part (130) is inserted into the opening (201) of the housing (20) and can be connected to the housing (20) through heat fusion, ultrasonic welding, adhesive attachment, etc. After all or part of the connecting part (130) is inserted into the opening (201), the opening (201) can be in close contact with the connecting part (130). The opening (201) can be in communication with the passage (101) of the port (10).

[0069] The connecting portion (130) may include a plurality of protrusions (131) and grooves (132). As shown in FIG. 3, the plurality of protrusions (131) may be spaced apart in the height direction of the connecting portion (130) (e.g., front and back sides in the Y-axis direction of FIG. 3) and in the Z-axis direction of FIG. 3. A groove (132) may be formed between two adjacent protrusions (131). The plurality of protrusions (131) and grooves (132) can increase the contact area between the housing (20) and the connecting portion (130) so that the port (10) can be firmly connected to the housing (20).

[0070] The cap (140) can open and close the inlet portion (120) to control the discharge of contents from the inlet portion (120). The cap (140) can be detachably connected to the inlet portion (120). For example, the cap (140) may include a thread on its inner surface corresponding to the thread (122) of the inlet portion (120) and may be connected to the inlet portion (120).

[0071] As shown in FIG. 5, the cap (140) may further include an applicator (141). The applicator (141) extends downward from the inner surface of the cap (140) and may have contents applied or impregnated at its end. With the cap (140) connected to the inlet (120), the applicator (141) may be inserted into the housing (20). The user may detach the cap (140) from the inlet (120) to directly discharge contents to the outside through the inlet (120) or apply contents to a desired location using the applicator (141) of the cap (140).

[0072] The following describes the state in which a container (1) is connected according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 6 shows two containers (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The user can position the plug (114) of one container (1) so that it faces the channel (111) of the other container (1).

[0074] Next, the plug (114) of one container (1) is inserted into the channel (111) of another container (1). FIG. 7 shows the state in which two containers (1) are combined with each other. FIG. 8 shows the port (10) in the state in which two containers (1) are combined with each other. With the plug (114) inserted into the channel (111), at least one of the front surface, top surface, bottom surface, and both sides of the plug (114) may come into contact with the inner surface of the channel (111). The outer projection (115) of the plug (114) may be inserted into the inner groove (113) of the channel (111). As shown in FIG. 7, the two containers (1) are combined with each other and can be maintained in an upright position on the floor. The user can remove the cap (140) of the container (1) to be used and dispense the contents. The direction in which the container (1) is joined may be parallel to the thickness direction of the container (1) (e.g., the Y-axis direction or the second direction in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8). For example, the direction in which the container (1) is joined may be the first direction that intersects (or is perpendicular to) the second direction. Thus, not only can housings (20) having a shape that is thin in the thickness direction relative to the width direction be arranged more densely, but multiple containers (1) can also be stably erected.

[0075] Although only two containers (1) are shown in FIG. 6-8, the number of combined containers (1) may be three or more. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the channel (111) and plug (114) of the port (10) contained in one container (1) may be combined with the plug (114) of the port (10) contained in another container (1) and the channel (11) of the port (10) contained in another container (1).

[0076] FIG. 10 shows channels (111A, 111B, 111C, 111D, 111E) and plugs (114A, 114B, 114C, 114D, 114E) according to embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 shows a cross-section viewed, for example, from a first direction.

[0077] FIG. 10(a) shows an embodiment in which the channel (111A) and the plug (114A) have a square cross-section. Inner grooves (113A) may be formed on each of the four inner sides of the channel (111A), and outer protrusions (115A) may be formed on each of the four outer sides of the plug (114A).

[0078] FIG. 10(b) illustrates an embodiment in which the channel (111B) and the plug (114B) have an H-shaped cross-section. For example, the channel (111B) may include a plurality of (e.g., two) vertical openings (1111B) that are long in the height direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction of FIG. 10) and one or more (e.g., one) horizontal openings (1112B) that connect the plurality of vertical openings (1111B). Additionally, the plug (114B) may also have a shape corresponding to the channel (111B). In this case, the main body may include an insertion projection (102B) formed between the two vertical openings (1111B). Accordingly, multiple insertion protrusions (102B) located between multiple vertical openings (1111B) of the channel (111B) are respectively inserted into the upper and lower grooves of the plug (114B), so that the channel (111B) and the plug (114B) can be more firmly connected. The inner groove (113B) is formed on the upper and lower sides of the horizontal opening (1112B) and on both sides of the vertical opening (1111B), respectively, and the outer protrusion (115B) can be formed to correspond to the inner groove (113B). For example, at least some of the multiple outer protrusions (115B) can be formed on the surface facing the insertion protrusion (102B) of the plug (114B). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the outer projection (115B) may be formed on the upper and lower surfaces of the plug (114B), respectively, so as to face the insertion projection (102B). Thus, the fastening force between the insertion projection (102B) and the plug (114B) inserted between the plurality of vertical openings (1111B) can be further increased. Alternatively, the outer projection (115B) may be formed on the inner surface corresponding to the vertical opening (1111B) of the plug (114B), respectively, so as to face the insertion projection (102B).

[0079] FIG. 10(c) illustrates an embodiment in which the channel (111C) and the plug (114C) have cross-shaped cross-sections. For example, the channel (111C) may have an opening shape extending in the height direction (or third direction) and the width direction (or second direction). Additionally, the plug (114C) may also have a shape corresponding to the channel (111C). Thus, the contact area between the plug (114C) and the channel (111C) is widened, allowing the channel (111C) and the plug (114C) to be more firmly connected. The inner groove (113C) is formed on the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the channel (111C), respectively, and the outer projection (115C) may be formed to correspond to the inner groove (113C).

[0080] FIG. 10(d) illustrates an embodiment in which the channel (111D) and the plug (114D) have a circular cross-section. For example, the plug (114D) may have a cylindrical shape, and the channel (111D) may also have a corresponding shape. Thus, the plug (114D) may not have corners on its outer surface, allowing it to be inserted more smoothly into the channel (111D). The plug (114D) may include a plurality of outer protrusions (115D) on its outer surface. The channel (111D) may include a plurality of inner grooves (113D) corresponding to the outer protrusions (115D).

[0081] FIG. 10(e) shows an embodiment in which the channel (111E) and the plug (114E) have an elliptical cross-section. The plug (114E) may include a plurality of outer protrusions (115E) on its outer surface. The channel (111E) may include a plurality of inner grooves (113E) corresponding to the outer protrusions (115E).

[0082] FIG. 11 shows plugs (114F, 114G, 114H) and outer projections (115F, 115G, 115H) according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0083] FIG. 11(a) shows a plug (114F) viewed from a first direction (or front), illustrating an embodiment in which one outer projection (115F) is formed on each of the upper and lower surfaces and both sides of the plug (114F). Thus, the plug (114F) can be more firmly coupled to the channel (111) in the width direction of the port (10).

[0084] FIG. 11(b) shows a plug (114G) viewed from a first direction (or front), illustrating an embodiment in which two outer protrusions (115G) are formed on the upper and lower surfaces and on both sides of the plug (114G). Multiple outer protrusions (115G) may be arranged in a second direction (e.g., the X-axis direction in FIG. 11(b)) or a third direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction in FIG. 11(b)) for each surface of the plug (114G). Thus, the coupling force between the plug (114G) and the channel (111) can be further increased. Although the drawing shows two outer protrusions (115G) on each surface of the plug (114G), three or more outer protrusions (115G) may be formed on each surface.

[0085] FIG. 11(c) shows a plug (114H) viewed from a third direction (or top surface), illustrating an embodiment in which a plurality of outer protrusions (115H) are formed on the top surface and both sides of the plug (114H). Although obscured in the drawing, a plurality of outer protrusions (115H) may also be formed on the bottom surface of the plug (114H). A plurality of outer protrusions (115H) may be arranged in a first direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction in FIG. 11(c)) for each surface of the plug (114H). Thus, the bonding strength between the plug (114H) and the channel (111) can be further increased. The plurality of outer protrusions (115H) arranged on each surface of the plug (114H) may be arranged in a zigzag pattern so as to be staggered from each other. The drawing shows that five outer protrusions (115H) are formed on the upper surface of the plug (114H) and two outer protrusions (115H) are formed on both sides, but the number may vary.

[0086] FIG. 12 shows an outer projection (115I) and an inner groove (113I), a connecting projection (115J) and an inner groove (113J), a slit (115K) and a connecting rib (113K) according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 12(a), the outer projection (115I) may traverse the outer surface of the plug (114I). For example, the outer projection (115I) may be on the outer surface of the plug (114I) and may have a straight shape extending in one direction. For example, the outer projection (115I) may extend in a second direction from the upper and lower surfaces of the plug (114I), respectively. The inner groove (113I) may be formed on the upper and lower surfaces of the channel (111I), respectively, to correspond to the outer projection (115I). For example, the outer projection (115I) may extend across the entire width direction (or second direction) of the plug (114I). The outer projection (115I) and the inner groove (113I), formed integrally without segmentation, may provide greater bonding force. Although the drawing shows that an outer projection (115I) is formed on the upper and lower surfaces of the plug (114I), an outer projection (115I) may also be formed on both sides of the plug (114I), and the same applies to the inner groove (113I). Additionally, two or more outer projections (115I) may be formed. For example, one or more outer projections (115I) may be formed on at least one of the upper surface, lower surface, and both sides of the plug (114I). Multiple plugs (114I) formed on each surface may be spaced apart from each other.

[0088] Alternatively, the outer projection (115I) may extend in two different directions. For example, the outer projection (115I) may extend in a first direction and a second direction on the surface of the plug (114I). Alternatively, the outer projection (115I) may extend at an angle with respect to the first direction and the second direction on the surface of the plug (114I). For example, the outer projection (115I) may have a shape such as a cross, an X, or an L. Thus, the outer projection (115I) and the inner groove (113I) can be more firmly joined in several different directions.

[0089] Alternatively, the plug (114I) may have a cylindrical shape, and the outer projection (115I) may have a ring shape extending along the outer surface of the plug (114I).

[0090] As shown in FIG. 12(b), the plug (114J) may include a plurality of segments (1141J). The plurality of segments (1141J) may each extend from the main body and be spaced apart from each other. Each segment (1141J) may include a coupling projection (115J). The coupling projection (115J) is formed at the end of the segment (1141J) and may extend outward. For example, when the plug (114J) is inserted into the channel (111J), the coupling projection (115J) may protrude outward in a second direction toward the inner surface of the channel (111J). Each coupling projection (115J) may be inserted into an inner groove (113J). Although two segments (1141J) are shown in the drawing, there may be three or more segments (1141J). Additionally, the connecting projection (115J) may be formed on the upper and / or lower surface in addition to the outer surface of each segment (1141J).

[0091] As shown in FIG. 12(c), a slit (115K) may be formed at the end of the plug (114K). The slit (115K) may include a plurality of slits (115K) and may be spaced apart in the width direction of the plug (114K) (or the X-axis direction or second direction in FIG. 12(c)). The plurality of slits (115K) may be formed across the entire height direction of the plug (114K) or by cutting a portion of the upper and lower surfaces of the plug (114K). A plurality of ribs (113K) corresponding to the plurality of slits (115K) may be formed in the channel (111K). The plurality of ribs (113K) may be inserted between the plurality of slits (115K). Multiple ribs (113K) guide the insertion of the plug (114K) into the channel (111K) and can increase the bonding strength between the plug (114K) and the channel (114K). Slits (115K) may also be formed on both sides of the plug (114K), and ribs (113K) may be formed on the inner surface of the channel (111K) to correspond thereto.

[0092] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, this is merely illustrative. Those skilled in the art will fully understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible from the embodiments. Accordingly, the true technical scope of protection of the present invention should be determined based on the appended claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0093] 1: Courage 2: Container Assembly 10: Port 20: Housing 110: Main body 120: Entrance 130: Connection 140: Cap

Claims

Claim 1 A container comprising a housing for receiving contents and a port connected to the housing, wherein the port comprises: a main body; a connecting part extending from below the main body and inserted into an opening of the housing; an inlet part extending from above the main body and communicating with the main body and the connecting part; and a cap covering the inlet part; wherein the main body comprises: a plug; and a channel having a shape corresponding to the plug and located opposite the plug in a first direction intersecting a second direction which is the width direction of the housing; and wherein the container is capable of being combined with another container by inserting the plug into the channel of another container or inserting the plug of another container into the channel. Claim 2 A container according to claim 1, wherein, when the plug is inserted into the channel of another container, the outer surface of the plug contacts the inner surface of the channel of another port and is fitted into the channel. Claim 3 A container according to claim 1, wherein the plug comprises one or more outer protrusions on an outer surface and the channel comprises one or more inner grooves on an inner surface, and the distance from the tip of the plug to the one or more outer protrusions is equal to the distance from the inner end surface of the channel to the one or more inner grooves. Claim 4 In paragraph 3, the container comprises, wherein the one or more outer protrusions each include a plurality of outer protrusions on the upper surface, lower surface, and both sides of the plug. Claim 5 In paragraph 3, the channel is a container having a cross-sectional shape among polygonal, H-shaped, cross-shaped, circular, and elliptical. Claim 6 A container according to claim 5, wherein the channel comprises a plurality of vertical openings spaced apart from each other and one or more horizontal openings connecting the plurality of vertical openings, and the channel comprises a plurality of insertion protrusions inserted between the plurality of vertical openings, and at least some of the one or more outer protrusions are formed on a surface facing the insertion protrusion of the plug. Claim 7 In paragraph 3, the above one or more outer protrusions are a container that crosses the outer surface of the plug. Claim 8 A container according to claim 1, wherein the plug has elasticity and includes a plurality of segments spaced apart from each other, and the plurality of segments each include a coupling projection on their outer surface. Claim 9 A container according to claim 1, wherein the plug includes a plurality of slits on an outer surface and the channel includes a plurality of connecting ribs on an inner surface corresponding to the plurality of slits. Claim 10 A container assembly comprising a plurality of containers, wherein each container comprises a housing for receiving contents and a port connected to the housing, wherein the port comprises: a main body portion; a connecting portion extending from below the main body portion and inserted into an opening of the housing; an inlet portion extending from above the main body portion and communicating with the main body portion and the connecting portion; and a cap covering the inlet portion; wherein the main body portion comprises a plug; and a channel having a shape corresponding to the plug and located opposite the plug in a first direction intersecting a second direction which is the width direction of the housing; and wherein the container assembly is capable of being combined with another container by inserting the plug into the channel of another container or inserting the plug of another container into the channel.

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