Child-resistant container for tobacco-containing products

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to child-resistant containers and methods of making same for oral products made or derived from tobacco, incorporate tobacco, or may be tobacco-free and are intended for human consumption. The child-resistant container may require both a horizontal force vector and a vertical force vector applied to the container to facilitate opening. The child-resistant container may also include two separate internal spaces configured for holding a product, with each internal space configured as child-resistant to opening.

Description

[0001] Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0002] CHILD-RESISTANT CONTAINER FOR TOBACCO-CONTAINING PRODUCTS

[0003] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0004] The present disclosure relates to child-resistant containers and methods of making same for oral products made or derived from tobacco, incorporate tobacco, or may be tobacco-free and are intended for human consumption.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Tobacco may be enjoyed in a so-called "smokeless" form. Particularly popular smokeless tobacco products are employed by inserting some form of processed tobacco or tobacco-containing formulation into the mouth of the user. See, for example, the types of smokeless tobacco formulations, ingredients, and processing methodologies set forth in U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,376,586 to Schwartz; 3,696,917 to Levi; 4,513,756 to Pittman et al.; 4,528,993 to Sensabaugh, Jr. et al.; 4,624,269 to Story et al.; 4,991,599 to Tibbetts; 4,987,907 to Townsend; 5,092,352 to Sprinkle, III et al.; 5,387,416 to White et al.; 6,668,839 to Williams; 6,834,654 to Williams; 6,953,040 to Atchley et al.; 7,032,601 to Atchley et al.; 7,694,686 to Atchley et al.; 7,810,507 to Dube et al.; 7,819,126 to Strickland et al.; 7,861,728 to Holton, Jr. et al.; 7,901,512 to Quinter et al.; 8,168,855 to Neilsen et al.; 8,336,557 to Kumar et al.; 8,469,036 to Strickland et al.; 8,627,828 to Strickland et al.; 8,940,344 to Crawford et al.; and 9,155,772 to Gao et al.; and U.S. Pat. Pub. Nos. 2004 / 0020503 to Williams; 2007 / 0062549 to Holton, Jr. et al.; 2008 / 0029116 to Robinson et al.; 2008 / 0029117 to Mua et al.; 2008 / 0173317 to Robinson et al.; 2008 / 0196730 to Engstrom et al.; 2009 / 0065013 to Essen et al.; and 2013 / 0206153 to Beeson et al.; PCT Pub. Nos. WO 04 / 095959 to Amarp et al.; and WO10 / 132444 to Atchley; each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0007] Representative smokeless tobacco products that have been marketed include those referred to as GRIZZLY® moist tobacco, KODIAK® moist tobacco, LEVI GARRETT™ loose tobacco and TAYLOR'S PRIDE® loose tobacco by American Snuff Company, LLC; KAYAK® moist snuff and CHATTANOOGA CHEW® chewing tobacco by Swisher International, Inc.; REDMAN® chewing tobacco by Pinkerton Tobacco Co. LP; COPENHAGEN® moist tobacco and RED SEAL® long cut by U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company.

[0008] Representative types of snuff products, commonly referred to as "snus," which may comprise pasteurized or heat treated tobacco products, are manufactured in Europe, particularly in Sweden, by or through companies such as Swedish Match AB, Fiedler & Lundgren AB, Gustavus AB, Skandinavisk Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0009] Tobakskompagni A / S and Rocker Production AB. Snus products available in the U.S.A, have been marketed under the trade names such as CAMEL® Snus Frost, CAMEL® Snus Original and CAMEL® Snus Spice by R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. Snus products, such as CAMEL® Snus Original, are commonly supplied in small teabag-like pouches. The pouches are typically a nonwoven fleece material and contain about 0.4 to 1.5 grams of pasteurized tobacco. These products typically remain in a user's mouth for about 10-30 minutes. Unlike certain other smokeless tobacco products, snus products typically do not require expectoration by the user. Other pouch types of smokeless tobacco products include those marketed as COPENHAGEN® Pouches, SKOAL® Bandits, SKOAL® Pouches, REVEL™ Mint Tobacco Packs by U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company; and MARLBORO® Snus by Philip Morris USA.

[0010] Various types of containers for dispensing moistened solid components, particularly components intended for human consumption, are known in the art. Such containers are often characterized by a hand-held size that can be easily stored and transported. For example, snus products have been packaged in tins, "pucks" or "pots" that are manufactured from metal or plastic. See, for example, those types of containers generally disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,098,421 to Foster; 4,190,170 to Boyd and 8,440,023 to Carroll et al.; and U.S. Patent Pub. Nos. 2010 / 0065076 to Bergstrom et al.; 2010 / 0065077 to Lofgreen-Ohm et al.; 2012 / 0024301 to Carroll et al. and 2012 / 0193265 to Patel et al.; each of which is incorporated by reference herein. Yet other types of containers for smokeless types of tobacco products are set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 8,458,996 to Bried et al.; D574,709 to Crotts et al. and D649,284 to Patel et al.; U.S. Patent Pub. Nos. 2008 / 0202956 to Welk et al., 2010 / 0012534 to Hoffman, 2010 / 0018883 to Patel et al., and 2014 / 0197054 to Pipes et al.; as well as the various types of containers referenced in U.S. Patent Pub. No. 2013 / 0206153 to Beeson et al.; each of which is incorporated by reference herein. Further, U.S. Patent No. 8,567,597 to Gibson et al. discloses a compartment container for snus and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0011] A desirable feature for certain containers is the incorporation of child-resistant features that make it difficult for children to open or otherwise access the contents of the container, thereby reducing the risk of poisoning in children via the ingestion of potentially hazardous items. However, such features may increase the cost and complexity of the container and the manufacturing thereof. Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0012] SUMMARY

[0013] In various implementations, the present disclosure relates to child-resistant containers having a base or body portion and a cover or lid, where the cover, the body portion, or both include structure to make it difficult for a child to separate the cover and the body portion, thereby reducing the risk of children accessing the contents of the container. However, typical adults will have sufficient strength to separate the cover and body portion. In addition, the container may include a visual and / or tactical cue to assist an adult with opening.

[0014] The present disclosure includes, without limitation, the following example implementations.

[0015] Example Implementation 1 : A child resistant container comprising a body portion defining an internal space accessible via an opening, the body portion comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall extending upwardly from a peripheral edge of the bottom wall, the sidewall extending along a perimeter of the bottom wall and having an inner surface and an outer surface and a top edge defining the opening. The container further comprises a first retention mechanism disposed about a perimeter of the outer surface of the sidewall proximate the top edge defining the opening; a button assembly disposed in the sidewall and configured to move the first retention mechanism inwardly upon application of a force to an outer surface thereof, wherein the top edge of the sidewall defines a first chamfered surface; a cover configured to securely and removably engage the body portion in a closed configuration, the cover comprising a top wall and a cover outer sidewall extending downwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the top wall, the cover outer sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface; a first mating retention mechanism comprising a plurality of tabs disposed about a perimeter of the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall proximate a lower edge of the cover outer sidewall and configured to removably engage the first retention mechanism when the cover is engaged with the body portion, wherein a bottom surface of the cover top wall comprises a downward projection extending at least partially about a perimeter of the top wall proximate / inward of the cover outer sidewall, the downward projection defining a second chamfered surface that abuts (or nearly so) the first chamfered surface of the body sidewall in the closed configuration. The button assembly is flexed inwardly to disengage the first retention mechanism from the first mating retention mechanism upon application of a first force to the button assembly and the first chamfered surface of the body portion sidewall engages the second chamfered surface of the downward projection when the outer sidewall flexes inwardly transferring a portion of the first force to the cover via the chamfered surfaces to release the cover from the body portion. Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0016] Example Implementation 2: The child resistant container of the preceding example implementation, wherein the body portion sidewall comprises an inner sidewall and an outer sidewall, each having an inner surface and an outer surface, and at least a portion of the outer sidewall is coupled to the outer surface of the inner sidewall.

[0017] Example Implementation 3 : The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the top edge defining the opening is the top edge of the inner sidewall and the first retention mechanism is disposed about a perimeter of the outer surface of the outer sidewall.

[0018] Example Implementation 4: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the outer sidewall is coupled to the inner sidewall via a lateral extension and the first retention mechanism is located above the lateral extension.

[0019] Example Implementation 5: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, further comprising a second retention mechanism disposed at the top edge of the body portion sidewall and a second mating retention mechanism defined by a receptacle in the bottom surface of the cover top wall configured to frictionally engage the second retention mechanism.

[0020] Example Implementation 6: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the button assembly is formed in the outer sidewall and defined by first and second vertical gaps in the outer sidewall.

[0021] Example Implementation 7: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the button assembly is coupled to the inner sidewall via a flexible linkage configured to return the button assembly to an unflexed orientation after the first force is removed.

[0022] Example Implementation 8: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the flexible linkage of the button assembly is configured to transmit a rotational force to the button assembly at the coupling point of the flexible linkage and the inner sidewall causing the button sidewall to move in a vertical direction when depressed. Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0023] Example Implementation 9: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the button assembly comprises two buttons disposed in direct opposition on the body portion.

[0024] Example Implementation 10 : The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, further comprising a removable lid disposed in the top wall of the cover. In some embodiments, the lid is hingedly coupled to the cover.

[0025] Example Implementation 11 : The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the cover further comprises a receptacle formed therein and accessible via removal of the lid.

[0026] Example Implementation 12 : The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the top edge of the sidewall defines a downward chamfered surface and the downward projection of the cover defines an upward chamfered surface, wherein the downward and upward chamfered surfaces comprise substantially mating or similar angles and are configured to engage when the button assembly flexes inwardly.

[0027] Example Implementation 13 : The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the substantially similar angles are about 10 degrees off of horizontal; however, the exact angle(s) may vary to suit a particular application.

[0028] Example Implementation 14: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the sidewall of the cover engages with at least a portion of the sidewall of the body portion such that the outer surface of the cover outer sidewall is configured to sit substantially flush with the outer surface of the sidewall of the body portion when engaged.

[0029] Example Implementation 15: A child resistant container comprising a body portion defining a first internal space accessible via an opening, the body portion comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall extending upwardly from a peripheral edge of the bottom wall, the sidewall extending along a perimeter of the bottom wall and having an inner surface and an outer surface and a top edge defining the opening. The container further comprising a first retention mechanism disposed about a perimeter of the outer surface of the sidewall proximate the top edge defining the opening; a cover configured to securely and removably engage the body Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) portion in a closed configuration, the cover comprising a top wall and a cover outer sidewall extending downwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the top wall, the cover outer sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface, and a bottom surface of the cover top wall comprising a downward projection extending at least partially about a perimeter of the top wall proximate the cover outer sidewall, the downward projection defining an angled surface that angles downwardly from proximate the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall and abuts or is proximate to the top edge of the body portion in the closed configuration; and a first mating retention mechanism disposed about a perimeter of the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall proximate a lower edge of the cover outer sidewall and configured to removably engage the first retention mechanism when the cover is engaged with the body portion. The at least one portion of the body portion sidewall is configured to be flexed inwardly to disengage the first retention mechanism from the first mating retention mechanism upon application of a force thereto, the top edge of the body portion configured to engage the downward projection when the body portion sidewall flexes inwardly transferring a portion of the force from the top edge to the downward projection to release the cover from the body portion.

[0030] Example Implementation 16: The child resistant container of the preceding example implementation, wherein the cover further comprises a cover inner sidewall extending upwardly from and about the peripheral edge of the top wall, wherein the top surface of the cover top wall and an inner surface of the cover inner sidewall defines a second internal space.

[0031] Example Implementation 17: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, further comprising a removable lid removably secured to the cover to enclose the second internal space.

[0032] Example Implementation 18: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the removable lid comprises a top wall and a lid sidewall extending downwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the lid top wall, the lid sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the lid includes a locking mechanism disposed at a distal end of the inner surface of the lid sidewall, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to engage a mating locking mechanism disposed about at least a portion of a perimeter of the cover, wherein the mating locking mechanism defines at least one opening for releasing the locking mechanism. Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0033] Example Implementation 19: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the first internal space comprises a first volume and the second internal space comprises a second volume that is less than the first volume.

[0034] Example Implementation 20: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the cover engages the body portion via an interference fit or a snap fit.

[0035] Example Implementation 21 : The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the sidewall of the body portion returns to an unflexed position after removal of the force.

[0036] Example Implementation 22: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein a lower edge of the cover abuts an upper edge of the outer sidewall of the body portion.

[0037] Example Implementation 23 : The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein an outer surface of the cover outer sidewall is configured to sit substantially flush with the outer surface of the outer sidewall of the body portion when engaged therewith.

[0038] Example Implementation 24: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the bottom surface of the cover top wall further comprises a rib extending downwardly and at least partially about a perimeter of the top wall inward of the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall, the rib defining at least one lateral opening therein, wherein the rib abuts or is proximate to the top edge of the body portion in the closed configuration and the downward projection is disposed within the lateral opening.

[0039] Example Implementation 25 : The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the at least one portion of the body portion sidewall configured to be flexed inwardly corresponds to the location of the lateral opening defined by the rib, while the remaining portion or portions of the body portion sidewall resist inward flexing via abutment with the rib. Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0040] Example Implementation 26: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the rib defines two lateral openings therein, and the downward projection comprises a first downward projection disposed within a first one of the lateral openings and a second downward projection disposed within a second one of the lateral openings.

[0041] Example Implementation 27 : The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the at least one portion of the body portion sidewall configured to be flexed inwardly comprises two portions of the body portion sidewall configured to be flexed inwardly, the two portions of the body portion sidewall correspond to the location of the two lateral openings defined by the rib.

[0042] Example Implementation 28: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the two lateral openings are oriented 180 degrees apart.

[0043] Example Implementation 29: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the downward projection comprises a plurality of ribs, which may be evenly spaced or not, terminate in a planar or curved surface, or any combination thereof.

[0044] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description together with the accompanying figures, which are briefly described below. The present disclosure includes any combination of two, three, four or more features or elements set forth in this disclosure, regardless of whether such features or elements are expressly combined or otherwise recited in a specific example implementation described herein. This disclosure is intended to be read holistically such that any separable features or elements of the disclosure, in any of its aspects and example implementations, should be viewed as combinable, unless the context of the disclosure clearly dictates otherwise.

[0045] It will therefore be appreciated that this Summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example implementations to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above described example implementations are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the disclosure in any way. Other example Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) implementations, aspects and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of some described example implementations.

[0046] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0047] Having thus described aspects of the disclosure in the foregoing general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying figures, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0048] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a child-resistant container for holding a tobacco-containing material according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0049] FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic, partially exploded perspective views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0050] FIG. 3 A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 1 taken at line C- C in FIG. 1 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0051] FIG. 3B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 1 taken at line C- C in FIG. 1 and partially exploded according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0052] FIG. 4A is a schematic cross-sectional exploded view of a portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 1 taken at line A-A in FIG. 1 according to some example implementations;

[0053] FIG. 4B is a schematic cross-sectional exploded view of a portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 1 taken at line B-B in FIG. 1 according to some example implementations;

[0054] FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic top views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 1 with its cover removed to illustrate the operation of the child resistant container according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0055] FIG. 5C is a schematic top perspective view of the container of FIG. 5B further illustrating the operation of the child resistant container according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0056] FIGS. 6A and 6B are schematic cross-sectional perspective views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 1 further illustrating the operation of the child resistant container according to some example implementations; Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0057] FIGS. 6C and 6D are schematic cross-sectional side views of a portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 1 further illustrating the operation of the child resistant container according to some example implementations;

[0058] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of an alternative child-resistant container for holding a tobaccocontaining material according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0059] FIG. 8 is a schematic top view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 7 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0060] FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 7 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0061] FIG. 10 is a schematic front view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 7 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0062] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 7 taken at line D- D in FIG. 8 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0063] FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 7 taken at line E- E in FIG. 8 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0064] FIG. 13 is an alternative schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 12 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0065] FIG. 14 is a schematic top perspective view of a body portion for use with the container of FIG. 7 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0066] FIG. 15 is a schematic top view of the body portion of FIG. 14 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0067] FIGS. 16A and 16B are schematic top perspective views of two different covers for use with the body portion of FIG. 14 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0068] FIGS. 17A and 17B are schematic top views of the covers of FIGS. 16A and 16B, respectively, according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0069] FIGS. 18A and 18B are schematic bottom views of the covers of FIGS. 16 A and 16B, respectively, according to some example implementations of the present disclosure; Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0070] FIGS. 19A and 19B are schematic bottom perspective views of the covers of FIGS. 16A and 16B, respectively, according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0071] FIGS. 20A-20C are enlarged, perspective views of portions of the cross-sectional views of FIGS. Ills, respectively, illustrating the operation of the container of FIG. 7 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0072] FIG. 21 is a schematic top perspective view of the container of FIG. 7 with the lid removed according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0073] FIG. 22 is a schematic bottom perspective view of a lid for use with the container of FIG. 7 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure; and

[0074] FIGS. 23A and 23B are enlarged, perspective cross-sectional views of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment of the container of FIG. 7 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0075] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] Some implementations of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures, in which some, but not all implementations of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, various implementations of the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the implementations set forth herein; rather, these example implementations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0077] Unless specified otherwise or clear from context, references to first, second or the like should not be construed to imply a particular order. A feature described as being above another feature (unless specified otherwise or clear from context) may instead be below, and vice versa; and similarly, features described as being to the left of another feature else may instead be to the right, and vice versa. Also, while reference may be made herein to quantitative measures, values, geometric relationships, or the like, unless otherwise stated, any one or more if not all of these may be absolute or approximate to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as those due to engineering tolerances or the like.

[0078] As used herein, unless specified otherwise or clear from context, the “or” of a set of operands is the “inclusive or” and thereby true if and only if one or more of the operands is true, as opposed to the “exclusive Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) or” which is false when all the operands are true. Thus, for example, “[A] or [B]” is true if [A] is true, or if [B] is true, or if both [A] and [B] are true. Further, the articles “a” and “an” mean “one or more,” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Additionally, where multiples of the same components are described, the multiples may be referred to individually (e.g., ##a, ##b, ##c, etc.) or collectively (##).

[0079] Example implementations of the present disclosure are generally directed to containers used to store various solid products, but are particularly well-suited for products designed for oral consumption. Exemplary consumable products that are often packaged in such containers include a wide variety of consumer products, including tobacco products of the type that have a smokeless form. Various forms of suitable smokeless tobacco products are those types of products set forth and described generally in U.S. Patent Pub. Nos. 2012 / 0193265 to Patel et al. and 2013 / 0206153 to Beeson et al.; which are incorporated by reference herein. Of particular interest, are exemplary tobacco products that include tobacco formulations in a loose form, such as moist snuff products. Other exemplary types of smokeless tobacco products include the types of products set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 2012 / 0024301 to Carroll et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Exemplary loose form tobacco used with the containers of the present disclosure may include tobacco formulations associated with, for example, commercially available GRIZZLY® moist tobacco products and KODIAK® moist tobacco products that are marketed by American Snuff Company, LLC. Exemplary snus forms of tobacco products are commercially available as CAMEL® Snus by R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company.

[0080] The shape of the outer surface of the containers of the disclosure can vary. Although the container embodiments illustrated in the drawings have certain contours and shapes, containers with other exterior and interior surface designs also can be suitably adapted and used. For example, the sides or edges of the containers of the disclosure can be flattened, rounded, or beveled, and the various surfaces or edges of the container exterior can be concave or convex. Further, the opposing sides, ends, or edges of the container can be parallel or non-parallel such that the container becomes narrower in one or more dimensions. See, for example, the types of containers, components, component arrangements and configurations, and constructions thereof set forth in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,458,996 to Bried et al., 8,910,781 to Pipes et al., and D649,284 to Patel et al.; U.S. Patent Pub. No. 2010 / 0018883 to Patel et al; as well as the various types of containers referenced in U.S.

[0081] Patent Pub. No. 2013 / 0206153 to Beeson et al.; each of which is incorporated by reference herein. Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0082] The shapes and sizes of the containers described herein can vary without departing from the disclosure. In some embodiments, the containers can be described as having a cylindrical shape suitable for handheld manipulation and operation; however, other multi-sided shapes (e.g., hexagonal, octagonal, etc.) are contemplated and considered within the scope of the disclosure. Exemplary dimensions for such handheld generally cylindrical embodiments include diameters in the range of about 50 mm to about 100 mm, and more typically about 60 mm to about 80 mm. Exemplary wall thicknesses include the range of about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, and more typically about 0.8 mm to about 1.4 mm. Exemplary depths for handheld container embodiments of the present disclosure range from about 5 mm to about 50 mm, more typically about 8 mm to about 30 mm, and most often about 15 mm to about 25 mm. An exemplary general outward appearance of the container is comparable in many regards to that which has been used for commercially available GRIZZLY® and KODIAK® products that are marketed by American Snuff Company, LLC.

[0083] Further, the size of the containers described herein may be changed. For example, the containers may be sized for promotional purposes by providing either increased or decreased dimensions. For example, the dimensions of the containers may be scaled upwardly or downwardly by certain multipliers. By way of further example, the dimensions of the container may be scaled upwardly or downwardly by a multiple of about 1 to about 10 times. In this regard, whereas a container according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured to store about 1.2 ounces of a tobacco-containing material, an oversized container may be configured to store, for example, 2.4 ounces or 7.2 ounces of the tobacco containing material. In specialty markets the containers may define a larger cylindrical configuration having a diameter from about 100 mm to about 125 mm (e.g., about 114 mm) and a depth from about 30 mm to about 50 mm (e.g., about 38 mm). Accordingly, the dimensions and capacities disclosed herein are provided for example purposes only and may be modified to suit particular applications.

[0084] FIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B depict a first example implementation of a child resistant container 100 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Generally, the container 100 includes a base or body portion 102 that may be configured to hold a consumer product and a lid and / or cover 104 configured to be securely, but removably, coupled to the body portion 102, each of which is described in greater detail below. As shown in FIG. 1, the cover 104 and body portion 102 may abut one another when engaged and their respective outer surfaces may be flush with one another, making it difficult to separate the Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) two parts. In some implementations, the cover 104 is secured to the body portion 102 via a snap or interference fit, which provides additional resistance to separating the two parts. The engagement of the cover 104 and body portion 102 are shown in greater detail and described with respect to FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5 A-5C, and 6A-6D below.

[0085] As shown in FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, the body portion 102 includes a bottom wall 108 and a sidewall 110 extending upwardly from, and about, a peripheral edge 106 of the bottom wall 108. The sidewall 110 has a top edge or upper rim 112 that in turn defines an opening through which the contents of the container 100 may be accessed. The bottom wall 108 and sidewall 110 define an internal space 140 that may be accessible via the opening when the cover 104 is removed therefrom. The internal space 140 of the body portion 102 may be configured to receive, for example, a fresh product, such as chewing tobacco, snus, or oral products or any of the other products / materials disclosed herein.

[0086] The sidewall 110 extends around the entire perimeter of the body portion 102 and has an inner surface and an outer surface. In some embodiments, the sidewall has an upper region and a lower region that may be separated horizontally by a ledge 138. In the embodiment shown, the outer surface of the upper region is recessed relative to the outer surface of the lower region of the sidewall. In some embodiments, this arrangement may be included to accommodate, for example, the various mechanisms described below for securing the cover 104 to the body portion 102. While the sidewall 110 introduced herein is initially described as having a single, contiguous circular wall, the sidewall 110 may comprise multiple wall portions or linear segments as would be necessary, for example, if the container 100 had a non-cylindrical shape (e.g., rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.) and may include inner and outer sidewalls as described below.

[0087] Generally, the sidewall 110 of the body portion 102 includes a first retention mechanism 134a disposed about a perimeter (or circumference depending on the shape of the body portion) of the outer surface of the upper region of the sidewall proximate a top edge thereof (e.g., top edge 112 defining the opening). The first retention mechanism 134a may have a concave or V-shape that extends along the entire perimeter / circumference of the body portion 102 or may comprise a series of first retention mechanisms spaced about the body portion sidewall. For example, the first retention mechanism 134a may be a continuous V or U-shaped groove running 360 degrees about the body portion or may include a plurality of separate grooves 134a spaced equidistant about the top edge 112 of the body portion 102 or located at only certain Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) location along the body portion. The specific configuration and number of mechanisms 134a may vary to suit a particular application (e.g., the size, shape, and structure of the container). In some embodiments, the retention mechanism(s) 134a are defined by an undercut in an outer surface of the sidewall that can be modified (e.g., change in depth or shape) to tune the amount of force required to remove the cover from the body portion. The specific vertical location of the mechanism 134a can be varied to tune the amount of travel required for the cover to disengage the body portion. In some embodiments, the foregoing may also or alternatively apply to a mating retention mechanism 134b in the cover 104. Additionally, the retention mechanisms may also be sized and shaped to accommodate a separate seal or gasket.

[0088] In some embodiments, the sidewall 110 includes a second retention mechanism 136a, disposed about a perimeter (or circumference depending on the shape of the body portion) of the sidewall. The second retention mechanism 136a may be disposed vertically above or below the first retention mechanism 134a. In some embodiments, the second retention mechanism 136a may be disposed on the top edge 112 of the sidewall and extend along the entire perimeter of the body portion 102, and may include ribs or a roughened surface to frictional engage a mating structure. The specific configuration and number of mechanisms 136a may vary to suit a particular application (e.g., the size, shape, and structure of the container).

[0089] The body portion 102 further comprises a button assembly 124 disposed in the sidewall thereof. In some embodiments, the button assembly 124 is disposed in the lower region of the sidewall 110. In some embodiments, the button assembly 124 is configured to flex upon application of a force to the outer surface thereof, thereby disengaging the cover 104 from the body portion as described in greater detail below.

[0090] As depicted in FIGS. 3 A, 3B, 4A, and 4B, the body portion sidewall 110 comprises an inner sidewall 110a and an outer sidewall 110b, each having an inner surface and an outer surface, and defining a channel 128 therebetween. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outer sidewall 110b is coupled to the outer surface of the inner sidewall 110 via, for example, a lateral extension 170 that may extend continuously about the perimeter of the body portion or comprise a plurality of discrete extensions spaced about the perimeter of the body portion 102. In some embodiments, lateral extensions 170 are spaced equidistant about the perimeter of the body portion, with the exception of where the button assembly 124 is located. Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0091] In the embodiment depicted, the top edge 112 defining the opening is the top edge of the inner sidewall 110a. In some embodiments, the second retention mechanism 136a is formed in the top edge 112 and may include a tapered edge configured to be received in a mating receptacle or groove in the cover 104, a plurality of horizontal ribs or nubs, and / or a high friction coating that assists in maintaining the second retention mechanism 136a in an engaged configuration. As shown in the figures, the first retention mechanism 134a is disposed about a perimeter of the outer surface of the outer sidewall 110b (forming the upper region of the sidewall) and slightly recessed relative to the outer surface of the outer sidewall and the ledge 138, which may assist with an outer surface of the cover 104 sitting flush with the outer surface of the outer sidewall when engaged with the body portion 102. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the outer sidewall 110b, the lateral extension 170, and the outer surface of the inner sidewall 110a define a receptacle 164 configured to receive a portion of the cover 104 when engaged with the body portion 102 as described in greater detail below.

[0092] As depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B, and in some embodiments, the button assembly 124 is disposed in the lower region of the outer sidewall 110b. In some embodiments, the button assembly 124 comprises two buttons 124a, 124b disposed in direct opposition (e.g., on opposite sides of, or spaced 180 degrees apart depending on shape of container) on the body portion 102 (see FIGS. 5A-5C). As can be seen in FIGS. 5A- 5C, the two buttons 124a, 124b are spaced about 180 degrees apart; however, the quantity and placement of the buttons may vary to suit a particular application (e.g., the size and shape of the container or the anatomy of a user’s hand). In some embodiments, the two buttons 124a, 124b are disposed about the body portion 102 so that a user may be able to open the container by squeezing the body portion with a single hand (e.g., between the thumb and a finger).

[0093] The button assembly 124, sometimes also referred to as a flex feature, is a resilient portion of the sidewall 110 that can be flexed inwardly to assist in separating the cover 104 and body portion 102, but provides sufficient resistance to the cover 104 and body portion 102 being separated by a child, along with the engagement of the retention mechanisms. The button assembly 124 will return to its unflexed configuration when the force thereon is removed. As depicted, each button 124a, 124b is formed in the outer sidewall 110b and defined by first and second vertical gaps 162 in the outer sidewall and coupled to the inner sidewall 110a via a flexible linkage 168 configured to return the button to an unflexed orientation Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) after the first force is removed. Generally, the flexible linkage behaves similar to a four-bar linkage insofar as the flexible linkage 168 is configured to transmit a rotational force to the button 124a, 124b at the coupling point of the flexible linkage and the inner sidewall causing the button (and associated section of the sidewall) to move in a vertical direction. The linkage 168 material, thickness, and pivot points can be modified to tune the amount of force (Fl) required to depress the button 124 far enough to disengage the cover from the body portion.

[0094] As shown, an upper region of the button / sidewall includes a portion of the first retention mechanism 134a extending along the outside surface of the button 124 / sidewall 110b proximate a top edge 132 thereof. The top edge 132 of the button 124 / sidewall 110b defines a first chamfered surface 166a, which is configured to interact with a mating chamfered surface on the cover as described in greater detail below.

[0095] The material of construction of the body portion 102 may vary to suit a particular application. Exemplary materials include metal, synthetic plastic materials, and cellulosic materials (e.g., cardboard). Polymeric materials that can be extruded and / or molded into desired shapes are typically utilized, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyamide, and the like. In some implementations, the body portion may comprise a transparent or translucent material that allows a user to detect a level of freshness, or other condition, of the product contained therein without the need for opening the container, which may negatively impact the freshness of the product depending on the frequency of opening. The body portion 102 may be manufactured via injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, extrusion, bonding, machining, or combinations thereof, as known to a person of skill in the art.

[0096] The cover 104 includes a top wall 116 and a sidewall 118 that extends downwardly, and about, a peripheral edge 120 of the top wall 116, the cover outer sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface. In some implementations, the top wall 116 spans the entire area bounded by its peripheral edge 120, while in other configurations, the top wall 116 does not span the entire area and forms a frame for accepting an outer lid 117 secured thereto, in which case the cover 116 defines an internal space 150 or receptacle accessible via removal of the lid 117. See FIG. 2B and 3B. In some embodiments, the lid 117 is removably coupled to the cover 104 or is coupled to the cover via a weak linkage insofar as the lid 117 would separate from the cover at a force less than that required to remove the cover from the body portion. The internal space 150 may be used to hold or store waste or spent materials. In some implementations, the cover 104 includes a recess 122 Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) or similar structure that may, for example, assist a user in handling the container 100 and / or manipulating the cover 104. For example, the recess 122 may allow a user to pry open the outer lid 117 (e.g., by using a tool or fingernail) to access the internal space 150 between the top wall 116 and outer lid 117.

[0097] As shown in FIGS. 3 A and 3B, the shape of the top wall 116 includes a generally planar central portion 116a and a non-planar border portion 116b surrounding the central portion 116a. In some embodiments, the border portion 116b includes a series of bends that define portions of the retention mechanisms. A first bend in the border portion 116b (relative to a center point of the cover top wall 116) defines a second mating retention mechanism 136b comprising a receptacle configured to frictional engage the second retention mechanism 136a on the body portion 104. In some embodiments, the receptacle is tapered, includes protuberances / ribs disposed therein, and / or includes a high friction coating. The second mating retention mechanism 136b may be disposed along the entire perimeter of the top wall 116 so as to engage the second retention mechanism 136a at any rotational orientation of the cover 104. Alternatively, the second mating retention mechanism 136b may be disposed along only portions of the perimeter of the top wall 116; however, that configuration may require indicia to assist with the proper positioning of the cover 104 relative to the body portion 102 for secure engagement therebetween.

[0098] The top wall border portion 116b may include a second bend that defines a projection 144 extending downwardly from a bottom surface of the cover top wall 116 that extends at least partially about a perimeter of the top wall proximate / inward of the cover outer sidewall 118. The downward projection 144 defines a second chamfered surface 166b that abuts (or nearly so) the first chamfered surface 166a of the body sidewall HOb / button 124 in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the downward projection 144 / second chamfered surface 166b extends along the entire perimeter of the top wall 116 so as to correspond with the first chamfered surface 166a at any rotational orientation of the cover 104.

[0099] The first chamfered surface 166a may be referred to as a downward chamfered surface as it slopes downwardly from the outer surface of the outer sidewall 110b, and the second chamfered surface 166b may be referred to as an upward chamfered surface as it slopes upwardly toward the perimeter of the top wall 116. The downward and upward chamfered surfaces 166a, 166b comprise substantially similar or complementary angles and are configured to engage when the buttons 124a, 124b are flexed inwardly. For example, a horizontal force applied to the button / sidewall generates an upward vector of force (F ) from the downward Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) chamfered surface to the upward chamfered surface at least partially disengaging the cover from the body portion.

[0100] In some embodiments, the angle of the downward chamfered surface 166a will vary to suit a particular application and may range from about 10 degrees to about 75 degrees, in some embodiments about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, and in some embodiments about 45 degrees + / - 5 degrees. The angle, along with the length thereof, may be selected to suit a particular application. For example, the angle and length of the chamfered surface can be varied to adjust the level of effort required to remove the cover (e.g., too difficult for a child to open, but still openable by a senior citizen. Similarly, the angle and length of the upward chamfered surface 166b will also vary to suit a particular application and may range from about 10 degrees to about 75 degrees, in some embodiments about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, and in some embodiments about 45 degrees + / - 5 degrees.

[0101] The downward and upward chamfered surfaces 166a, 166b may have substantially similar angles so as to engage one another when the buttons 124 flex inwardly; however, the angles of the chamfered surfaces do not need to be similar, or have similar lengths, as the angles and lengths can be selected to suit a particular application (e.g., amount of force required or manner of opening the container). In some embodiments, there may be a slight space between the chamfered surfaces 166a, 166b when the cover is engaged with the body portion, while in others, the chamfered surfaces about one another.

[0102] The cover 104 further includes a first mating retention mechanism 134b comprising a plurality of tabs or similar structures disposed about a perimeter of the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall 118 proximate a lower edge 142 of the cover outer sidewall 118 and configured to removably engage the first retention mechanism 134a when the cover 104 is engaged with the body portion 102. In some embodiments, the tabs (mating retention mechanism 134b) may have a convex or V-shaped projection configured to mate with the shape of the first retention mechanism 134a so as to securely engage the cover 104 to the body portion 102. In some embodiments, the tabs are spaced equidistant about the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall 118, although the first mating retention mechanism 134b may extend along the entire perimeter / circumference of the cover outer sidewall 118. Alternatively, in some embodiments, there may be only two tabs spaced 180 degrees apart so that the cover 104 needs to have a specific rotational orientation relative to the body portion 102 (e.g., tabs and buttons are aligned) to enable removal of the cover. The vertical orientation of the tabs is Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) selected so that the first mating retention mechanism 134b engages the first retention mechanism 134a in a snap fit configuration as shown in FIGS. 6A-6D. The specific configuration and number of retention mechanisms may vary to suit a particular application (e.g., the size, shape, and / or structure of the container).

[0103] In some embodiments, the cover 104 may be made of the same materials and by the same processes as the body portion 102. In some embodiments, the cover 104 may be formed from a metallic material, such as, for example, aluminum or tinplate. In implementations incorporating the outer lid 117, it may be manufactured separately from and of a different material than the remainder of the cover 104 to, for example, provide labeling or other indicia or to serve an aesthetic purpose.

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2B, 3A, 6A, and 6C, the engagement between the body portion 102 and cover 104 are clearly depicted. As shown and previously described, the body portion 102 includes a bottom wall 108 and a sidewall 110 extending upwardly therefrom and defining a button assembly 124, and the cover 104 includes a top wall 116 and a sidewall 118 extending downwardly therefrom. An upper region of the outer sidewall 110b is configured to engage with at least a portion of the cover outer sidewall 118. As shown, the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall 118 engages with the outer surface of the upper region of the outer sidewall 110b via an interference or snap fit. As can be seen, outer sidewall 110b and the cover outer sidewall 118, including their retention mechanisms 134a, 134b, 136a, 136b, enable the snap fit. In some embodiments, the bottom edge 142 of the cover outer sidewall 118 may abut against a top edge of the ledge 138 in the body portion outer sidewall 110b and, in some embodiments, the outer surface of the cover 104 sits flush with or slightly inward or outward of the outer surface of the lower region of the outer sidewall 110b to make it difficult to engage with and remove the cover 104 from the body portion 102. See FIG. 6 A.

[0105] Generally, to remove the cover 104, a user applies a force to the buttons 124a, 124b (i.e., depresses the outer sidewall 110b). The channel 128 allows the buttons to be flexed inwardly towards the inner sidewall 110a as shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C. Upon application of the force Fl to the buttons 124a, 124b, the first retention mechanism 134a is released from the first mating retention mechanism 134b of the cover, and a portion of the force (Fl’) is transferred to the downward projection 144 of the cover 104 via the engagement of the chamfered surfaces 166a, 166b, thereby applying an upward force on the cover 104 and at least partially disengaging the cover 104 from the body portion 102 (for example, by disengaging the second retention mechanism 136a from the second mating retention mechanism 136b). In some embodiments, partially raising Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) the cover may also provide access to the bottom edge 142 of the cover outer sidewall 118, so that a user can apply an additional force to the cover 104 (e.g., via the use of a tool or fingernail) sufficient to overcome any remaining resistance to separating the cover 104 from the body portion 102.

[0106] FIGS. 6A-6D are enlarged cross-sectional type views that illustrate the engagement of the cover 104 with the body portion 102 and how the button assemblies 124 (or “flex feature”) assist with removing the cover 104, as described in greater detail below. Generally, the cross-sections are taken vertically through the center of one of the button assemblies 124. As shown, the cover 104 and body portion 102 abut one another when engaged and their respective outer surfaces are substantially flush with one another, which makes it difficult to separate the two parts (see also FIGS. 1 and 2B).

[0107] When the buttons 124a, 124b are flexed inwardly (i.e., the application of a first force F 1 to the buttons 124a, 124b in a horizontal or inward direction to squeeze the buttons together) as shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C (FIG. 5A depicts the body portion without the force Fl applied), the first retention mechanism 134a disengages from the first mating retention mechanism 134b and, at essentially the same time, the first chamfered surfaces 166a of the body portion sidewall 110b engages the opposing second chamfered surfaces 166b of the downward projections 144 when the buttons 124a, 124b flex inwardly transferring a portion of the first force Fl (Fl’) upwardly to the cover 104 via the chamfered surfaces to disengage the second retention mechanism 136a from the second mating retention mechanism 136b, thereby releasing the cover 104 from the body portion 102. Typically, Fl is sufficient to overcome the holding force of the retention mechanisms (e.g., strength of the snap and / or interference fit) to at least partially separate the cover 104 from the body portion 102. However, in some embodiments, an additional application of force (vertical force F2) to the cover 104 is required to completely disengage the second retention mechanism 136a from the second mating retention mechanism 136b. In some embodiments, the second force F2is provided via manual application of a vertical force to the cover 104.

[0108] In some embodiments, the chamfered surfaces 166a, 166b may have an angle such that their engagement upon squeezing the buttons 124 only moves the cover 104 in an upward direction for some distance less that the distance required for the second retention mechanism 136a to completely exit the receptacle of the second mating retention mechanism 136b. In some embodiments, the button 124 tilts inwardly about 8 degrees; however, the amount of tilt may vary to suit a particular application (e.g., size and Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) shape of the container). Additionally, the flexible linkage 168 provides a certain amount of vertical movement of the first chamfered surface 166a relative to the second chamfered surface 166b, thereby further assisting with the disengagement of the second retention mechanism 136a. Generally, the vertical displacement of the button will also vary to suit a particular application. In some embodiments, (e.g., 8° of rotation on a 10 mm long L-shaped arm with a 1 mm wide face) actuation of the button 124 provides about a 1.07 mm vertical lift of the cover. The button 124 and linkage 168 arrangement allows for a complex motion of the button such that the arrangement will move in a 4-bar linkage type motion, and the resulting height change of the button could be as large as 3 mm.

[0109] Once the cover 104 has been released from the body portion (see FIG. 3B), the user can release (i.e., remove the applied force) the button assemblies 124 and the body portion 102 returns to its ncutral / normal or unflexed configuration. The cover 104 can be reattached to the body portion 102 by pushing the cover back onto the body portion with sufficient force to reengage the retention mechanisms, which should be evident once the cover and body portion are back in an abutting configuration as described above and / or due to an audible or haptic feedback.

[0110] FIGS. 7-10 depict an alternative child-resistant container 200 for holding a tobacco-containing material. The container 200 is similar to the container 100 described above insofar as it includes a base or body portion 202 that may be configured to hold a consumer product and a cover 204 configured to be securely, but removably, coupled to the body portion 202, and a lid 217 configured to be securely, but removably, coupled to the cover 204. In some embodiments, the body portion 202, cover 204, and lid 217 of the container 200 may be made of the same materials and by the same processes as the container 100 described above.

[0111] As shown in FIGS. 7-10 and 14-15, the body portion 202 includes a bottom wall 208 and a sidewall 210 extending upwardly from, and about, a peripheral edge 206 of the bottom wall 208. The sidewall 210 has a top edge or upper rim 212 that in turn defines an opening through which the contents of the container 200 may be accessed. The bottom wall 208 and sidewall 210 define an internal space 240 that may be accessible via the opening when the cover 204 is removed therefrom. The internal space 240 of the body portion 202 may be configured to receive, for example, a fresh product, such as chewing tobacco, snus, or oral products or any of the other products / materials disclosed herein. Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0112] The sidewall 210 extends around the entire perimeter of the body portion 202 and has an inner surface 210a and an outer surface 210b. In some embodiments, the sidewall has an upper region and a lower region that may be separated horizontally by a ledge 238. In the embodiment shown, the outer surface of the upper region is recessed relative to the outer surface of the lower region of the sidewall. In some embodiments, this arrangement may be included to accommodate, for example, the various mechanisms described below for securing the cover 204 to the body portion 202. While the sidewall 210 introduced herein is initially described as having a single, contiguous circular wall, the sidewall 210 may comprise multiple wall portions or linear segments as would be necessary, for example, if the container 200 had a non-cylindrical shape (e.g., rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.) and may include inner and outer sidewalls.

[0113] Generally, the sidewall 210 of the body portion 202 includes a first retention mechanism 234a disposed about a perimeter (or circumference depending on the shape of the body portion) of the outer surface of the upper region of the sidewall proximate a top edge thereof (e.g., the top edge 212 defining the opening). The retention mechanism 234a may have a convex or V-shape that extends along the entire perimeter / circumference of the body portion 202 or may comprise a series of retention mechanisms spaced about the body portion sidewall. For example, the retention mechanism 234a may be a continuous V or U- shaped groove running 360 degrees about the body portion or may include a plurality of separate grooves spaced equidistant about the body portion 202 or located at only certain locations along the body portion. The retention mechanism 234a is configured to engage a first mating retention mechanism in the cover 204 as described below. The specific configuration and number of retention mechanisms 234a may vary to suit a particular application (e.g., the size, shape, and structure of the container). In some embodiments, the retention mechanism(s) 234a are defined by an undercut in the outer surface 210b of the sidewall that can be modified (e.g., change in depth or shape) to tune the amount of force required to remove the cover from the body portion. The specific vertical location of the mechanism 234a can be varied to tune the amount of travel required for the cover to disengage the body portion. In some embodiments, the foregoing may also or alternatively apply to the mating retention mechanism 234b in the cover 204. Additionally, the retention mechanisms may also be sized and shaped to accommodate a separate seal or gasket. The containers 100, 200 described herein may be configured to improve shelf life, preserve freshness, and / or maintain or enhance flavor stability of the products contained therein; for example, via component materials and / or component interfaces. Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0114] In some embodiments, the body portion 202 includes an optional hinge mechanism 232, which may comprise a thinned wall portion located proximate the peripheral edge 206 of the body portion 202 that makes the sidewall 210 more flexible relative to the bottom wall 208. Additionally, in some embodiments, the outer surface 110b of the body portion sidewall may include an optional anti-rotation mechanism 278, which may include a series of protuberances, ribs, other structure to provide friction between the body portion 202 and the cover 204 when attached thereto. Removal of the cover from the body portion is described in greater detail below.

[0115] As shown in FIGS. 7-10 and 16-19, the cover 204, 204’ includes a top wall 216, 216’, having a top surface 216a, 216a’ and a bottom surface 216b, 216b’, and an outer sidewall 218, 218’ that extends downwardly, and about, a peripheral edge 220, 220’ of the top wall 216, 216’ the cover outer sidewall 218, 218’ having an inner surface 218a, 218a’ and an outer surface 218b, 218b’. The top wall 216, 216’ includes a generally planar central portion and a non-planar border portion surrounding the central portion that corresponds to the peripheral edge 220, 220’ of the cover 204, 204’. Generally, the border portion is similar to the border portion of the cover 116 described above insofar as it includes a series of bends that define portions of the retention mechanisms and / or opening mechanisms (see also FIGS. 11-13).

[0116] As shown in FIGS. 16A, 16B, 17A, and 17B, the cover 204, 204’ also includes an inner sidewall 242, 242’ that extends upwardly from the top surface 216a, 216a’ of the cover top wall and therewith defines an internal space or receptacle 250, 250’ accessible via removal of the lid 217, 217’. See FIGS. 11-13. The internal space 250, 250’ may be used to hold or store waste or spent materials. In some implementations, the cover 204, 204’ includes a recess 222, 222’ or similar structure that may, for example, assist a user in handling the container 200 and / or manipulating the cover 204, 204’. In some embodiments, the recess 222, 222’ provides a visual clue as to the location of a release mechanism for removing the lid 217, 217’ as described in greater detail below.

[0117] As shown in FIGS. 18A, 18B, 19A, and 19B, the cover 204 includes a first mating retention mechanism 234b disposed about a perimeter of the inner surface 218a of the cover outer sidewall proximate a lower edge of the cover outer sidewall and configured to removably engage the first retention mechanism 234a when the cover 204 is engaged with the body portion 202. In some embodiments, the first mating retention mechanism 234b comprises a plurality of tabs or similar structures sized and shaped to interface Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) with corresponding structure (e.g., a groove) of the first retention mechanism 234a. In some embodiments, the tabs (mating retention mechanism 234b) may have a convex or V-shaped projection configured to mate with the shape of the first retention mechanism 234a so as to securely engage the cover 204 to the body portion 202. In some embodiments, the mating retention mechanism 234b includes a series of tabs spaced equidistant about the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall 218, although the first mating retention mechanism 234b may also extend along the entire perimeter / circumference of the cover outer sidewall 218. Alternatively, in some embodiments, there may be only two tabs spaced 180 degrees apart so that the cover 204 needs to have a specific rotational orientation relative to the body portion 202 to enable removal of the cover. The vertical orientation of the first retention mechanisms (234 collectively) is selected so that the first mating retention mechanism 234b engages the first retention mechanism 234a in a snap fit configuration as shown in FIGS. 11-13 and 20A-20C. The specific configuration and number of retention mechanisms may vary to suit a particular application (e.g., the size, shape, and / or structure of the container).

[0118] Also shown in FIGS. 16A, 16B, 17A, and 17B is a locking mechanism 258, 258’ configured to retain the lid 217 and prevent inadvertent removal thereof. The locking mechanism 258, 258’ extends about the perimeter (or proximate thereto) and defines a groove 258, 258’configured to receive a mating locking mechanism disposed on the lid 217 as discussed in greater detail below. The locking mechanism 258, 258’ further defines two alignment slots 260, 260’ spaced 180 degrees apart in the perimeter of the locking mechanism. The alignment slots 260, 260’ are sized, shaped, and oriented to correspond to the mating locking mechanism of the lid 217.

[0119] Referring again to FIGS. 18 A, 18B, 19 A, and 19B, the underside of the cover 204 includes a groove or receptacle 246 extending about the perimeter of the cover 204 that is defined by an outer surface of the inner wall 242 and the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall 218. Generally, the groove 246 is configured to receive a portion of the sidewall 210 of the body portion (see, for example, FIGS. 12 and 20 A), which is described in greater detail below. Disposed within the groove 246, 246’ is a rib(s) 248, 248’ extending at least partially about the perimeter of the cover 204. The ribs 248, 248’ are configured to prevent the sidewall 210 of the body portion from being flexed inwardly at the locations defined by the ribs 248, 248’. See FIG. 20 A, which depicts that the application of a force Fx to the sidewall 210 fails to deflect the sidewall inwardly. Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0120] As shown in FIGS. 18A and 19A, there are two ribs 248 depicted that define two gaps 272 disposed 180 degrees apart. The gaps 272 define an area where the body portion sidewall 210 may be deflected inwardly by application of a force thereto, to assist in removal of the cover 204 from the body portion. The number and orientation of the ribs 248 may be selected to suit a particular application. As shown in FIGS. 18B and 19B, there is a single rib 248’ depicted that defines a single gap 272’. Generally, the locations of gaps 272, 272’ correspond to the locations of the recesses 222, 222’ disposed in the topside of the covers 204, 204’.

[0121] The underside of the cover 204 further includes one or more downward projections 266, 266’ extending at least partially about a perimeter of the cover top wall. Generally, the projections 266, 266’ define an angled surface that angles downwardly from proximate the inner surface 218a, 218a’ of the cover outer sidewall and abuts or is proximate to the top edge 212 of the body portion 202 in the closed configuration. See FIGS. 20B and 20C.

[0122] As shown in FIGS. 18A and 19A, the cover 204 includes two sets of downward projections 266 spaced 180 degrees apart and comprising a series of ribs 266a. The angled surface of the downward projections 266 has a slightly curved shape. As shown in FIGS. 18B and 19B, the cover 204’ include a single downward projection 266’ comprising a series of ribs 266a’. The angled surface of the downward projection 266’ has a steeper downward angle than the projection 266 of cover 204 so as require a greater force to remove the cover 204’ from the body portion as described in greater detail below. In some embodiments, the angle(s) of the projections 266, 266’ may be varied to tune the force required to remove the cover 204, 204’.

[0123] In some embodiments, the angled surfaces of the downward projections 266, 266’ may be configured as solid or continuous chamfered surfaces that may be referred to as a downward chamfered surface as it slopes downwardly from the inner surface 210b of the body sidewall towards a center point of the cover. In some embodiments, the top edge 212 of the body portion may have a slight chamfer with a substantially similar or complementary angle to the downward projections 266, 266’. In some embodiments, the angle of the downward projections 266, 266’ will vary to suit a particular application and may range from about 10 degrees to about 75 degrees, in some embodiments about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, and in some embodiments about 45 degrees + / - 5 degrees. The angle, along with the length thereof, may be Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) selected to suit a particular application. For example, the angle and length of the downward projections can be varied to adjust the level of effort required to remove the cover (e.g., too difficult for a child to open, but still openable by a senior citizen).

[0124] FIG. 22 depicts the underside of the removable lid 217 disclosed above. As shown, the lid 217 has a top wall 217a and a sidewall 254 extending downwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the lid top wall. The lid sidewall 254 has an inner surface and an outer surface and a mating locking mechanism 276 (e.g., a projection) disposed at a distal end of the inner surface of the lid sidewall and extending inwardly. As shown, the lid 217 includes two locking projections 276 disposed 180 degrees apart and each extending about or along a portion of the perimeter of the lid. The lid 217 further includes an inner wall 256 spaced inwardly from the sidewall 254 and defining a groove or receptacle 244 therebetween. In some embodiments, the groove 244 is configured to receive at least a portion of the cover 204, 204’ sidewalls or top wall boundary region. See FIG. 23 A. In some embodiments, a second retention mechanism 237b is disposed about an outer surface of the inner sidewall 256. As shown in FIG. 21, the cover 204 includes a second mating retention mechanism 237a, 237a’ disposed on the inner surface of the inner sidewall 242, 242’ of the cover. In some embodiments, the second retention mechanism 237b is a shallow projection extending about the entire perimeter of the inner lid sidewall 256, while the second mating retention mechanism 237a, 237a’ comprises a series of shallow projections equally spaced about the perimeter of the cover inner sidewall 242, 242’. The second retention mechanism (collectively 237) is configured to provide additional resistance to removing the lid 217 from the cover 204, 204’, in particular preventing inadvertent removal of the lid 217 when the locking mechanisms are in an unlocked orientation.

[0125] FIGS. 11-13, 20A-20C, and 23 A-23B further illustrate the operation of the child resistant container 200. FIGS. 11 and 20A depict an orientation of the body portion 202 and cover 204 where the cover is not removable if a user applies a force (Fx) at the depicted location of the body sidewall 210. As shown, the inner surface of the sidewall 210 presses against the rib 248 in the cover preventing removal of the cover.

[0126] FIGS. 12 and 20B depict the orientation of the body portion 202 and cover 204 where application of a force (F) to a specific location (i.e., flex zone or button) 224 allows the body sidewall 210 to deflect inwardly at least partially disengaging the first retention mechanism (collectively 234). This location 224 generally aligns with the recess 222 in the cover, which also aligns with the gaps 272 where the rib 248 is Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) not present. In some embodiments, the recess 222 provides an indication to a user as to where to press on the sidewall 210 to remove the cover. As shown in FIG. 12, there are two locations 224a, 224b spaced 180 degrees apart that may be flexed inwardly (i.e., the application of a force F to the locations 224 in a horizontal or inward direction to squeeze the sidewall 210 together). At the same time that the first retention mechanism 234 is beginning to disengage, the top edge 212 of the sidewall engages the downward projections 266, thereby transferring a portion of the force F upwardly to the cover 204 (force Fv) to further disengage the cover from the body portion. Specifically, the horizontal force F applied to the flex zones 224a, 224b generates an upward vector of force (Fv) from the top edge 212 of the body sidewall 210 to the cover 204 via engagement with the downward projections 266. Typically, force F, and by extension Fv, is sufficient to overcome the holding force of the retention mechanisms (e.g., strength of the snap and / or interference fit) to at least partially separate the cover 204 from the body portion 202. However, in some embodiments, an additional application of force may be required to completely disengage the cover from the body. For example, the recess 222 may allow a user to pry open the partially released cover 204 (e.g., by using a tool or fingernail).

[0127] FIGS. 13 and 20C depict the orientation of an alternative body portion 202’ and an alternative cover 204’ as disclosed above and essentially as described with respect to body portion 202 and cover 204 insofar as application of a force (F) to a specific location 224’ allows the body sidewall 210’ to deflect inwardly at least partially disengaging the first retention mechanism (collectively 234’). The alternative body portion 202 ’ can be used interchangeably with either cover 204, 204 ’ . As can be seen in FIG. 13 , the body portion 202’ is shorter then body portion 202, i.e., the body portion 202’ has a shallower internal space 240’. The cover 204’ differs from the cover 204 of FIG. 12 insofar as there is only a single downward projection 266’ and only a single location (i.e., flex zone) 224’ for removing the cover 204’ from the body portion 202’. Additionally, the single downward projection 266’ has a steeper downward angle so as to require a greater force F’ applied to the flex zone 224’ to disengage the cover 204’ from the body portion 202’. In some embodiments, an audible indication is generated when the cover 204’ “pops” free of the body portion 202, 202’. The lid 217 is interchangeable with both covers 204, 204’. The location 224’ generally aligns with the recess 222’ in the cover, which also aligns with the gap 272’ where the rib 248’ is not present. In some Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) embodiments, the recess 222’ provides an indication to a user as to where to press on the sidewall 210’ to remove the cover.

[0128] FIGS. 21, 22, 23 A, and 23B further illustrate the removal of the lid 217 from the cover 204 to access the second internal space 250. Removal of the lid 217 from the alternative cover 204’ operates in the same manner. As disclosed above, the lid 217 includes two mating locking projections 276. The projections 276 are sized, shaped, and oriented to engage with the alignment slots 260 in the locking mechanism 258 on the cover 204. Once the projections 276 are aligned with the slots 260, a downward force on the lid 217 engages the second retention mechanism 237 and the lid 217 can be rotated so that the locking projections 276 are disposed within the groove 258a of the locking mechanism 258, thereby preventing the lid 217 from being removed from the cover 204. As shown in FIG. 23B, the locking projection 276 is disposed within the groove 258a such that if a user attempted to lift of or otherwise remove the lid from the cover, the locking projection 276 butts up against a wall of the locking mechanism 258.

[0129] In some embodiments, it is not necessary to align the projections 276 and slots 260 to attach the lid to the cover, as the locking projections 276 may be configured to allow the lid to be forced or snapped onto the cover. In some embodiments, the projection 276 may be shaped to provide more deflection thereof in response to an upward force such as that generated when pushing the lid onto the cover. Additionally, or alternatively, a chamfered leading edge on the underside of the projection 276 and a corresponding chamfered leading edge on the top of the locking mechanism 258 may facilitate pushing the lid onto the cover.

[0130] To remove the lid 217, a user rotates the lid (arrow R in FIG. 23B) until the locking projections 276 are aligned with the slots 260 in the locking mechanism 258, and when aligned, the user applies an upward forced Fu (i.e., a pull) to the lid as shown in FIG. 23 A. The upward force Fu needs to be sufficient to overcome the mating second retention mechanism 237. In some embodiments, the upward force is provided by a fingernail or tool prying the lid upwardly at a recess proximate the ledge 238. Once lifted, the lid can be completely separated from the cover. While two projections and slots are depicted spaced 180 degrees apart, the number and location / orientation of the projections and slots can be varied to suit a particular application (e.g., size and shape of the container and / or desired complexity). In some embodiments, the lid may include, for example, depressions disposed on the top surface of the lid to assist with rotating the lid. Additionally, or Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) altematively, the cover and / or lid may include indicia to assist a user with properly aligning the locking projections 276 with the slots 260.

[0131] The amount of force required to remove the cover may vary to suit a particular application and may depend on, for example, the wall thicknesses, materials of construction, and / or the size of retention mechanisms. The container 100, 200 may be configured to meet any minimum force required to make the container child resistant, such as, for example, materials of construction and number of and location of certain structural features. Additionally, essentially any number of button assemblies 124 or flex locations 224 may be included and disposed about the perimeter of the body portion 102, 202, for example, they may be spaced equidistant about the body portion to suit a particular application (e.g., size and shape of the container, a righthand vs. lefthand operation, etc.). Furthermore, the size, shape, and visibility of the buttons 124, 224 may vary to suit a particular application. In addition, a tactile feature may be included on the button assembly, such as, for example, a protuberance or other minimally raised structure that a user can feel when gripping the container. Additionally, or alternatively, the sidewall 110, 210 of the body portion 102, 202 may include a structure that provides an audible cue when engaged, for example, a force is applied.

[0132] In addition, in embodiments including both internal spaces 140, 240, 150, 250 the sizes (i.e., volumes) thereof may be substantially equal or the volume of the cover internal space 150, 250 may be about 90%, about 80%, about 70%, about 60%, about 50%, about 40%, about 30%, about 20%, about 10% of the volume of the body portion internal space 140.

[0133] In various implementations of the containers described herein, the containers may include additional features, such as a barrier fdm or membrane configured to cover the opening in the body portion, thereby enclosing the internal space. By way of example, the barrier film may comprise a foil or a film (e.g., a polymer film) and / or may contain a material selected and configured to be substantially fluid-impervious so as to prevent the flow of fluids from the internal space to an external environment or allow the transmission of gasses therethrough (e.g., diffusion of oxygen into the internal space) to maintain the freshness of the tobaccocontaining material by supporting the health of aerobic microbes within the tobacco-containing material. Another feature that may be included is a vent mechanism disposed in the body portion, the cover, or both to help regulate an internal pressure or other environmental condition within the container. Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)

[0134] Many modifications and other implementations of the disclosure will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated figures. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific implementations disclosed herein and that modifications and other implementations are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A child resistant container comprising: a body portion defining a first internal space accessible via an opening, the body portion comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall extending upwardly from a peripheral edge of the bottom wall, the sidewall extending along a perimeter of the bottom wall and having an inner surface and an outer surface and a top edge defining the opening; a first retention mechanism disposed about a perimeter of the outer surface of the sidewall proximate the top edge defining the opening; a cover configured to securely and removably engage the body portion in a closed configuration, the cover comprising a top wall and a cover outer sidewall extending downwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the top wall, the cover outer sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface, and a bottom surface of the cover top wall comprising a downward projection extending at least partially about a perimeter of the top wall proximate the cover outer sidewall, the downward projection defining an angled surface that angles downwardly from proximate the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall and abuts or is proximate to the top edge of the body portion in the closed configuration; and a first mating retention mechanism disposed about a perimeter of the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall proximate a lower edge of the cover outer sidewall and configured to removably engage the first retention mechanism when the cover is engaged with the body portion, wherein at least one portion of the body portion sidewall is configured to be flexed inwardly to disengage the first retention mechanism from the first mating retention mechanism upon application of a force thereto, the top edge of the body portion configured to engage the downward projection when the body portion sidewall flexes inwardly transferring a portion of the force from the top edge to the downward projection to release the cover from the body portion.

2. The child resistant container of claim 1, wherein the cover further comprises a cover inner sidewall extending upwardly from and about the peripheral edge of the top wall, wherein a top surface of the cover top wall and an inner surface of the cover inner sidewall defines a second internal space.

3. The child resistant container of claim 2 further comprising a removable lid removably secured to the cover to enclose the second internal space.

4. The child resistant container of claim 3, wherein the removable lid comprises a top wall and a lid sidewall extending downwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the lid top wall, the lid sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the lid includes a locking mechanism disposed at aAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) distal end of the inner surface of the lid sidewall, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to engage a mating locking mechanism disposed about at least a portion of a perimeter of the cover, wherein the mating locking mechanism defines at least one opening for releasing the locking mechanism.

5. The child resistant container of claim 2, wherein the first internal space comprises a first volume and the second internal space comprises a second volume that is less than the first volume.

6. The child resistant container of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover engages the body portion via an interference fit or a snap fit.

7. The child resistant container of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a lower edge of the cover abuts an upper edge of the outer sidewall of the body portion.

8. The child resistant container of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer sidewall of the body portion returns to an unflexed position after removal of the force.

9. The child resistant container of any one of the preceding claims, wherein an outer surface of the cover outer sidewall is configured to sit substantially flush with the outer surface of the outer sidewall of the body portion when engaged therewith.

10. The child resistant container of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bottom surface of the cover top wall further comprises a rib extending downwardly and at least partially about a perimeter of the top wall inward of the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall, the rib defining at least one lateral opening therein, wherein the rib abuts or is proximate to the top edge of the body portion in the closed configuration and the downward projection is disposed within the lateral opening.

11. The child resistant container of claim 10, wherein the at least one portion of the body portion sidewall configured to be flexed inwardly corresponds to the location of the lateral opening defined by the rib, while the remaining portion of the body portion sidewall resists inward flexing via abutment with the rib.

12. The child resistant container of claim 10, wherein the rib defines two lateral openings therein, and the downward projection comprises a first downward projection disposed within a first one of the lateral openings and a second downward projection disposed within a second one of the lateral openings.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)13. The child resistant container of claim 12, wherein the at least one portion of the body portion sidewall configured to be flexed inwardly comprises two portions of the body portion sidewall configured to be flexed inwardly, the two portions of the body portion sidewall correspond to the location of the two lateral openings defined by the rib.

14. The child resistant container of claim 12 or 13, wherein the two lateral openings are oriented 180 degrees apart.

15. The child resistant container of any one of the preceding claims, where the downward projection comprises a plurality of ribs.

16. A child resistant container comprising: a body portion defining an internal space accessible via an opening, the body portion comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall extending upwardly from a peripheral edge of the bottom wall, the sidewall extending along a perimeter of the bottom wall and having an inner surface and an outer surface and a top edge defining the opening; a first retention mechanism disposed about a perimeter of the outer surface of the sidewall proximate the top edge defining the opening; a button assembly disposed in the sidewall and configured to move the first retention mechanism inwardly upon application of a force to an outer surface thereof, wherein the top edge of the sidewall defines a first chamfered surface; a cover configured to securely and removably engage the body portion in a closed configuration, the cover comprising a top wall and a cover sidewall extending downwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the top wall, the cover sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface; a first mating retention mechanism comprising a plurality of tabs disposed about a perimeter of the inner surface of the cover sidewall proximate a lower edge of the cover sidewall and configured to removably engage the first retention mechanism when the cover is engaged with the body portion, wherein a bottom surface of the cover top wall comprises a downward projection extending at least partially about a perimeter of the top wall proximate / inward of the cover sidewall, the downward projection defining a second chamfered surface that abuts the first chamfered surface of the body sidewall in the closed configuration; and wherein the button assembly is flexed inwardly to disengage the first retention mechanism from the first mating retention mechanism upon application of a first force to the button assembly and the first chamfered surface of the body portion sidewall engages the second chamfered surface of the downwardAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565) projection when the outer sidewall flexes inwardly transferring a portion of the first force to the cover via the chamfered surfaces to release the cover from the body portion.

17. The child resistant container of claim 16, wherein the body portion sidewall comprises an inner sidewall and an outer sidewall, each having an inner surface and an outer surface, and at least a portion of the outer sidewall is coupled to the outer surface of the inner sidewall.

18. The child resistant container of claim 17, wherein the top edge defining the opening is the top edge of the inner sidewall and the first retention mechanism is disposed about a perimeter of the outer surface of the outer sidewall.

19. The child resistant container of claim 18, wherein the outer sidewall is coupled to the inner sidewall via a lateral extension and the first retention mechanism is located above the lateral extension.

20. The child resistant container of claim 19, further comprising a second retention mechanism disposed at the top edge of the body portion sidewall and a second mating retention mechanism defined by a receptacle in the bottom surface of the cover top wall configured to frictionally engage the second retention mechanism.

21. The child resistant container of any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the button assembly is formed in the outer sidewall and defined by first and second vertical gaps in the outer sidewall.

22. The child resistant container of claim 21, wherein the button assembly is coupled to the inner sidewall via a flexible linkage configured to return the button assembly to an unflexed orientation after the first force is removed.

23. The child resistant container of claim 22, wherein the flexible linkage of the button assembly is configured to transmit a rotational force to the button assembly at the coupling point of the flexible linkage and the inner sidewall causing the button sidewall to move in a vertical direction when depressed.

24. The child resistant container of claim 23, wherein the button assembly comprises two buttons disposed in direct opposition on the body portion.

25. The child resistant container of claim 24, further comprising a removable lid disposed in the top wall of the cover.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 1210WO (01565)26. The child resistant container of claim 25, wherein the cover further comprises a receptacle formed therein and accessible via removal of the lid.

27. The child resistant container of any one of claims 16 to 26, wherein the top edge of the sidewall defines a downward chamfered surface and the downward projection of the cover defines an upward chamfered surface, wherein the downward and upward chamfered surfaces comprise substantially mating or similar angles and are configured to engage when the button assembly flexes inwardly.

28. The child resistant container of claim 27, wherein the substantially similar angles are about 10 degrees off of horizontal.

29. The child resistant container of any one of claims 16 to 28, wherein the sidewall of the cover engages with at least a portion of the sidewall of the body portion such that the outer surface of the cover sidewall is configured to sit substantially flush with the outer surface of the sidewall of the body portion when engaged.

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