Liquid dispensing container

Abstract

A container for storing and dispensing a liquid. The container includes one or more features for controlling the flow of the liquid through a dispensing outlet.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PKLIQUID DISPENSING CONTAINERCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of priority to United States Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 734,851, filed December 17, 2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] Previous liquid dispensing containers have included a flip-top cap, for example, that had to be manually opened by the user prior to dispensing. Containers of this type have often suffered from undesirable attributes such as a lack of control over the dispensing volume, spillage, and / or consumer inconvenience. Additionally, should a user inadvertently leave the cap open, any product in the container exposed to the environment could dry out. Thus, a need exists for an improved container and / or a dispensing cap for easier use and control.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0003] The present invention, in one form, comprises a liquid dispensing container. The container comprises a cap and a dispensing system configured to hold a quantity of liquid adjacent the cap. The dispensing system comprises an openable valve that permits the quantity of liquid to exit the container when the container is squeezed by a user. Such an arrangement can reduce the possibility of a “dry squeeze” when the container is initially squeezed. The dispensing system also comprises a shield configured to inhibit the liquid stored in the container from impacting the valve in the event that the container is dropped on the ground, for example.

[0004] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK

[0006] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a container including a container body and a dispensing cap in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0007] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 1 taken along line II-II of FIG. 1;

[0008] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the dispensing cap of FIG. 1 that illustrates a dispensing assembly of the dispensing cap;

[0009] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the dispensing cap of FIG. 1, also illustrating the dispensing assembly of the dispensing cap;

[0010] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a cap component of the dispensing assembly illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4;

[0011] FIG. 5B is another perspective view of the cap component of FIG. 5 A;

[0012] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a base component of the dispensing assembly illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4;

[0013] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing assembly of FIGS. 3 and 4 taken along line VII- VII of FIG. 4;

[0014] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing cap of FIG. 1 taken along line VIII- VIII of FIG. 3;

[0015] FIG. 9 is a close-up view of area IX of FIG. 2;

[0016] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a dispensing cap in accordance with an alternative embodiment;

[0017] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI of FIG. 10;

[0018] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a dispensing assembly of a dispensing cap in accordance with an alternative embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a container including a container body and a dispensing cap in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the dispensing cap of FIG. 13 attached to a portion of the container body of FIG. 13;

[0021] FIG. 15 is a plan view of the dispensing cap and container body portion of FIG. 13;

[0022] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing cap and container body portion of FIG. 13;

[0023] FIG. 17 is a detail view of a dispensing assembly of the dispensing cap of FIG. 13;

[0024] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the dispensing cap and container body portion of FIG. 13;Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK

[0025] FIG. 19 is another exploded view of the dispensing cap and container body portion of FIG. 13;

[0026] FIG. 20A is a perspective view of a base component of the dispensing assembly of FIG. 17;

[0027] FIG. 20B is an elevational view of the base component of FIG. 20A;

[0028] FIG. 20C is a cross-sectional view of the base component of FIG. 20A taken along line 20C-20C in FIG. 20A;

[0029] FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a basket component of the dispensing assembly of FIG. 17;

[0030] FIG. 2 IB is an elevational view of the basket component of FIG. 21 A;

[0031] FIG. 21C is a cross-sectional view of the basket component of FIG. 21A taken along line 21C-21C in FIG. 21A;

[0032] FIG. 22A is a perspective view of a valve component of the dispensing assembly of FIG. 17;

[0033] FIG. 22B is an elevational view of the valve component of FIG. 22A; and

[0034] FIG. 22C is a cross-sectional view of the valve component of FIG. 22A taken along line 22C-22C in FIG. 22A.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

[0036] The description of illustrative embodiments according to principles of the present invention is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description of embodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless explicitly indicated as such. TermsAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. Moreover, the features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference to the exemplified embodiments. Accordingly, the invention expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of the invention being defined by the claims appended hereto.

[0037] Referring first to FIGS. 1 and 2, a container 1000 is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The container 1000 generally comprises a container body 100 and a dispensing cap 200. The container body 100 comprises or defines an interior cavity 101. A liquid 102 may be stored or held in the interior cavity 101. The liquid 102 may be configured to be dispensed from the container body 100 via the dispensing cap 200, as described in more detail below. The container body 100 may be formed from any material commonly used as a liquid container, such as plastics including polyethylene (including high-density polyethylene and low- density polyethylene), polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyvinylchloride, polyethylene terephthalate, other thermoplastic polymers, or blends or multilayer structures thereof. The container body 100 may be formed from a flexible plastic material. The container body 100 may be capable of being compressed when squeezed, and such compressing / squeezing action may be used to dispense the contents from the interior cavity 101 of the container body 100.

[0038] The container body 100 may comprise a body portion 110 and a neck portion 111. The container body 100 may comprise a connection portion 112 that allows for a connection between the container body 100 and the dispensing cap 200. The connection portion 112 may be located along the neck portion 111 of the container body 100. The connection portion 112 may comprise threads on an exterior surface of the neck portion 111. Other features may be used as the connection portion 112, including snap-fit features like protuberances or grooves, friction fit features, or the like.

[0039] The body portion 110 of the container body 100 may have any desired shape, thus the invention is not limited to the shape of the container body 100, the volume of the interior cavity 101, or other related characteristics. The container body 100 may comprise a first end 113 and a second end 114. A distal end of the neck portion 111 may form the second end 114 of the containerAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK body 100. The second end 114 of the container body 100 may comprise an opening 115 through which the liquid 102 may be dispensed from the container body 100, as described further below.

[0040] The liquid 102 may be any liquid commonly stored in a container of the type described herein for dispensing therefrom. The liquid 102 may be a dishwashing liquid, a laundry detergent liquid, a hand soap, or the like. The liquid 102 may be a consumer product, a personal care product, a food product, an industrial or household cleaning product, or other compositions. The liquid 102 may have a variety of different viscosities, colors, densities, and other characteristics. The liquid 102 may be configured to be dispensed from the interior cavity 101 of the container body 110 via the opening 115 in the second end 114 of the container body 100 through the dispensing assembly 200, as described further herein.

[0041] The dispensing cap 200 may comprise a body component 210 and a dispensing assembly 300. The dispensing cap 200 may comprise an engagement feature 201 that is configured to mate with the connection portion 112 on the neck portion 111 of the container body 100. In an embodiment, the engagement feature 201 may comprise threads that mate with the threads on the neck portion 111 of the container body 100. However, other features may be used depending on the nature of the connection, which may be a friction fit, an interference fit, a snap fit, or the like instead of a threaded screw connection. The dispensing cap 200 may be coupled to the second end 114 of the container body 100 to close the opening 115 in such a manner that a user is required to compress / squeeze the container body 100 to dispense the liquid 102 therefrom.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 8, the dispensing cap 200 will be further described. As noted, the dispensing cap 200 comprises the body component 210 and the dispensing assembly 300. The dispensing assembly 300 may be coupled to the body component 210. In some embodiments, the dispensing assembly 300 may be detachably coupled to the body component 210. The body component 210 may be a monolithic structure formed from a hard plastic material. The body component 210 may comprise a floor portion 211 having an inner surface 212 and an outer surface 213. The inner surface 212 of the floor portion 211 may face the interior cavity 101 of the container body 100 when the dispensing cap 200 is coupled to the container body 100.

[0043] The body component 210 may comprise an outer annular wall 214 having a first portion 215 that protrudes from the inner surface 212 of the floor portion 211 and a second portion 216 that protrudes from the outer surface 213 of the floor portion 211. The outer annular wall 214 may comprise an outer surface 217 that forms an outer surface of the body component 210 and an innerAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK surface 218 opposite the outer surface 217. The outer annular wall 214 may be arcuate such that the outer surface 213 is concave and the inner surface 218 is convex. However, the outer annular wall 214 need not be arcuate in all embodiments and may be planar, including being vertically oriented or being oriented at an angle to a vertical plane. The body component 210 may further comprise a connecting collar 220 extending from the floor portion 211. More specifically, the connecting collar 220 may extend from the inner surface 212 of the floor portion 211. The connecting collar 220 may comprise an annular wall which is surrounded by the outer annular wall 214 in a spaced apart manner. The connecting collar 220 may comprise an outer surface 221 that faces the outer annular wall 214 and an inner surface 222 that is opposite the outer surface 221. The connecting collar 220 may comprise the engagement feature 201. More specifically, the connecting collar 220 may comprise threads 223 on its inner surface 222, with the threads 223 forming the engagement feature 201 that is configured to mate with the threads on the container body 100. Thus, the body component 210 may be configured to be screwed to the container body 100 via engagement between the threads 223 of the connecting collar 220 and the connecting portion (e.g., threads) 112 of the container body 100.

[0044] The base component 200 may comprise a dispensing basin 225 that is defined by and between the inner surface 212 of the floor portion 211 and the inner surface 222 of the connecting collar 220. The connecting collar 220 may further comprise an annular channel 226 defined between the inner surface 218 of the outer annular wall 214 and the outer surface 221 of the connecting collar 220. When the dispensing cap 200 is coupled to the container body 100, the neck portion of the container body 100 may nest within the dispensing basin 225 so that the liquid in the container body 100 flows into the dispensing basin 225 for later dispensing upon a squeezing action being applied by the user as described herein.

[0045] The base component 200 further comprises an outlet opening 230 that is formed through the floor portion 211 from the inner surface 212 to the outer surface 213. The outlet opening 230 may be located within the dispensing basin 225. The outlet opening 230 may therefore be surrounded by the connecting collar 220. The outlet opening 230 may form an outlet through which the liquid may be dispensed from the dispensing cap 200 for use by the consumer. The floor portion 211 of the base component 200 may comprise an annular groove 240 that surrounds the outlet opening 230. The annular groove 240 may be defined by a groove floor 241, a groove inner wall 242 that extends from the groove floor 241 to a distal end 243, and a groove outer wallAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK244. The groove floor 241 may face the same direction as the inner surface 212 of the floor portion 211, with the groove floor 241 being recessed relative to the inner surface 212 of the floor portion 211.

[0046] Referring now to FIGS. 4-7, the dispensing assembly 300 will be described. As noted, the dispensing assembly 300 is configured to be coupled to the body component 200. The dispensing assembly 300 may comprise a base component 310, a cap component 350 that is configured to be coupled to the base component 310, and a valve component 390.

[0047] The base component 310 may comprise a first end 311, a second end 312, an inner surface 313, an outer surface 314, and a cavity 315 that is bounded by the inner surface 313. The cavity 315 may comprise a first opening 326 at or in the first end 311 and a second opening 327 at or in the second end 312. Thus, the cavity 315 may essentially be a through-hole that extends from the second end 312 to the first end 311. The cavity 315 therefore forms a passageway through which the liquid can flow when the liquid is being dispensed as described herein.

[0048] The base component 310 may comprise a first wall portion 316 that comprises the first end 311 and a second wall portion 317 that comprises the second end 312. Each of the first and second wall portions 316, 317 may be annular portions of the base component 310. The base component 310 may comprise an annular flange portion 318 that protrudes from the first wall portion 316 at the first end 311. The first wall portion 316 may have a greater outer diameter than the second wall portion 317. The first wall portion 316 may also have a greater inner diameter than the second wall portion 317. The base component 310 may comprise a shoulder 319 that extends between the first and second wall portions 316, 317. The shoulder 319 may be formed by an end of the second wall portion 317. The shoulder 319 may face downwardly towards the first end 311 of the base component 310. The shoulder 319 may be angled relative to a horizontal plane as shown, or the shoulder 319 may be oriented horizontally.

[0049] The base component 310 may comprise an engagement feature 320 to facilitate attachment of the base component 310 to the cap component 350. The engagement feature 320 may comprise an annular lip 321 protruding from the inner surface 313 of the base component 310 at a position adjacent to the second end 312 of the base component 310. Of course, the engagement feature 320 may take on other forms, such as being a groove that receives a protuberance of the cap component 350 or the like. The engagement feature 320 may be a snap-fit feature in some embodiments.Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK

[0050] The valve component 390 may be a flexible, resilient slit-type valve. Other types of valves 390 may be used in other embodiments. The valve component 390 may be formed from an elastomeric material. The valve component 390 may comprise a peripheral portion 391 and a central portion 392. The central portion 392 may comprise one or more slits 393 that are selfclosing and are biased into a closed state, with the slits 393 separating to create an opening through the valve 390 when a pressure is applied onto the container body 110 to which the dispensing cap 200 is configured to be connected. The valve component 390 may be located within the cavity 315 of the base component 310. Specifically, the valve component 390 may be positioned so that the peripheral portion 391 of the valve component 390 is in contact with the shoulder 319 of the base component 310. The valve component 390 may be wholly located within the cavity 315 of the base component 310 such that no portion of the valve component 390 protrudes from the ends 311 , 312 of the base component 310.

[0051] With reference to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 7, the cap component 350 will be described. The cap component 350 may comprise an end wall 351 having a first surface 352 and a second surface 353 and an annular sidewall 355 that extends from the first surface 352 of the end wall 351. The annular sidewall 355 and the first surface 352 of the end wall 351 may collectively define a cap cavity 354 of the cap component 350. The cap component 350 may further comprise a plurality of engagement elements 360 that protrude from the first surface 352 of the end wall 351 into the cap cavity 354. Each of the engagement elements 360 may be spaced inwardly of the annular sidewall 355 of the cap component 350. In the exemplified embodiment, there are three of the engagement elements 360 positioned in a spaced apart manner relative to one another.

[0052] Each of the engagement elements 360 may comprise a spacer element 361 that extends from the first surface 352 of the end wall 351 to a contact surface 362 that forms a distal surface of the spacer element 361 and a connector tab 363 that extends from the first surface 352 of the end wall 351 to a distal end 364. For each of the engagement elements 360, the connector tab 363 protrudes further from the first surface 352 of the end wall 351 than the spacer elements 361. Thus, the distal end 364 of the connector tab 363 is located further from the first surface 352 of the end wall 351 than the contact surface 362 of the spacer element 361. Thus, the contact surface 362 is recessed relative to the distal end 364. For each of the engagement elements 360, the spacer element 361 and the connector tab 363 may be integrally connected as a unitary structure.Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PKAlternatively, the spacer elements 361 and the connector tabs 363 may be separate structures that are not connected. In an embodiment, the spacer elements 361 may be omitted.

[0053] For each of the engagement elements 360. the connector tab 363 comprises a stem portion 365 having an inner surface 366 and an outer surface 367 and an engagement portion 368 on the inner surface 366 adjacent to the distal end 364. The spacer element 361 may extend from the inner surface 365 of the connector tab 363. The engagement portion 368 may comprise a protuberance that protrudes from the inner surface 366 adjacent to the distal end 364. The engagement portion 368 may be configured to mate or engage with the engagement feature 320 (or annular lip 321) of the base component 310 to facilitate the coupling of the cap component 350 to the base component 310.

[0054] FIG. 7 illustrates the dispensing assembly 300 in its assembled state. As mentioned, the valve component 390 is located within the cavity 315 of the base component 310. Furthermore, the engagement portion 368 of the connector tab 363 of the cap component 350 engages the engagement feature 320 of the base component 310 to couple the cap component 350 to the base component 310. The cap component 350 may be coupled to the second end 312 of the base component 310 to extend across the second opening 327 in the top end 312 of the base component. The cap component 350 may have an inner diameter that is greater than an outer diameter of the second wall portion 317 of the base component 310. As such, the annular sidewall 355 of the cap component 350 may overlap with a portion of the second wall portion 317 of the base component 310 in a spaced apart manner. That is, the annular sidewall 355 of the cap component 350 is positioned around and surrounds a portion of the second wall portion 317 of the base component 310. A horizontal axis or plane would intersect the annular sidewall 355 of the cap component 350 and the second wall portion 317 of the base component 310 due to this overlapping relationship. Furthermore, a first gap G1 may be present between the inner surface of the annular sidewall 355 of the cap component 350 and the outer surface 314 of the base component 310 to allow the fluid 102 to flow from the internal cavity 101 into the cavity 315 of the dispensing assembly 300. The size, or width, of the first gap G1 (i.e.. the distance measured between the inner surface of the annular sidewall 355 of the cap component 350 and the outer surface 314 of the base component 300) may be adjusted by modifying the dimensions of the cap component 350 and / or the dimensions of the base component 310.Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK

[0055] Furthermore, when the cap component 350 is coupled to the base component 310, the second end 312 of the base component 310 abuts against the contact surface 362 of the spacer element 361. Thus, the cap component 350 is prevented from being translated / moved further towards the first end 311 of the base component 310 due to the abutment / contact between the second end 312 of the base component 310 and the contact surface 362 of the spacer element 361. As such, a second gap G2 is present between the second end 312 of the base component 310 and the first surface 352 of the end wall 351 of the cap component 350. The size, or width, of the second gap G2 (i.e., the distance measured from the first surface 352 of the end wall 351 of the cap component 350 to the second end 312 of the base component 310) may be adjustable by modifying the height of the spacer element 361 as measured from the first surface 352 of the end wall 351 to the contact surface 362 of the spacer element 360. If the spacer element 361 has a greater height, than the height / size of the second gap G2 will be increased.

[0056] The first and second gaps Gl, G2 may collectively form an inlet passageway 370 that extends from an exterior of the dispensing assembly 300 into the cavity 315 of the base component 310 via the opening 327 in the second end 312 of the base component 310. Specifically, the liquid may be capable of flowing through the first gap Gl and into the second gap G2, and from the second gap G2 into the cavity 315 through the second opening 327 in the second end 312 of the base component 310. Upon a sufficient force being applied onto the container body 100 as described herein, the liquid may then be forced from the cavity 315 through the opening in the valve 390 for dispensing.

[0057] The dispensing assembly 300 may comprise a height Hl measured between the second end 312 of the base component 310 and a distal end 356 of the annular sidewall 355 of the cap component 350. The height Hl may be adjustable by adjusting the length of the annular sidewall 355, the length of the upper wall portion 317 of the base component 310, or both.

[0058] The dimensions of the first and second gaps Gl. G2 may be optimized depending on certain characteristics and / or properties of the liquid to be dispensed through the dispensing assembly 300. For example, the dimensions / size of the gaps Gl, G2 and / or the height Hl may be adjusted based on the viscosity of the liquid contained in the container body 100 to ensure that a sufficient volume of the liquid will be dispensed in response to a given squeezing force being applied onto the container body 100. This may be achieved by modifying or adjusting the dimensions of various parts of the base component 310 and / or the cap component 350. In various embodiments, theAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK width of the first gap G1 and / or the second gap G2 is between .001” and .070”, for example. In at least one embodiment, the width of the first gap G1 and / or the second gap G2 is .002”, for example, and. in such instances, the dispensing assembly 300 may be suitable for dispensing water, for example. In at least one embodiment, the width of the first gap G1 and / or the second gap G2 is .060”, for example, and, in such instances, the dispensing assembly 300 may be suitable for more viscous concentrates, for example. In various instances, the first gap G1 and the second gap G2 create a pressure drop suited for the viscosity of the fluid in the container. The above being said, the width of the first gap G1 and / or the second gap G2 may be any suitable width.

[0059] Referring again to FIG. 8, the relationship between the body component 210 and the dispensing assembly 300 of the dispensing cap 200 will be described. The dispensing assembly 300 may be coupled to the body component 210 and located within the dispensing basin 225 of the body component 210. The dispensing assembly 300 may be positioned so as to be aligned with and / or overlie the outlet opening 230 of the body component 210. The dispensing assembly 300 may be coupled to the body component 210. In the exemplified embodiment, a portion of the base component 310 of the dispensing assembly 300 may nest within the annular groove 240 in the floor portion 211 of the body component 210. Thus, the dispensing assembly 300 may be positioned so as to surround the outlet opening 230. The entirety of the dispensing assembly 300, including the base component 310, the cap component 350, and the valve component 390, may all be located on the same side (i.e., on the inner surface side 212) of the floor portion 211 of the body component 210. The peripheral portion 391 of the valve component 390 may be positioned within the cavity 315 of the base component 310 and may be sandwiched between the shoulder 319 of the base component 310 and the distal end 243 of the groove inner wall 242 of the annular groove 240. The central portion 392 of the valve component 390 may extend across the outlet opening 230 of the body component 210. Thus, unless the valve component 390 is opened (such as due to a compression force being applied onto the container body 100), the liquid will be unable to flow through the valve component 390 and through the outlet opening 230 for dispensing. The inlet passageway 370 of the dispensing assembly 300 may be fluidly coupled to the dispensing basin 225 so that liquid that flows from the container body 100 into the dispensing basin 225 may flow through the inlet passageway 370 and into the cavity 315.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 9. a close-up cross-sectional view of a portion of the container 1000 is illustrated showing the dispensing cap 300 coupled to an end of the container body 100. TheAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK threads on the neck portion 11 1 of the container body 100 are engaged with the threads on the connecting collar 221 of the body component 210 of the dispensing cap 200 to couple the dispensing cap 200 to the container body 100. The neck portion 111 of the container body 100 nests within the dispensing basin 225 of the body component 210 of the dispensing cap 200. Thus, when the container 1000 is held in an inverted orientation, the liquid 102 in the interior cavity 101 of the container body 100 is in fluid communication with the inlet passageway 370 of the dispensing assembly 300. This is shown in FIG. 9, such that the liquid 102 flows through the inlet passageway 370 of the dispensing assembly 300 and into the cavity 315 of the base component 310 of the dispensing assembly 300. The liquid then rests atop of the valve component 390, which forms a barrier between the cavity 315 of the base component 310 and the outlet opening 230 of the body component 210. If a user were to squeeze the container body 100 with sufficient force, the valve component 390 will open and the liquid 102 will flow from the cavity 315 of the base component 310, through the opening in the valve component 390, and through the outlet opening 230 of the body component 210.

[0061] In the assembled container 1000 with the dispensing cap 200 coupled to the container body 100, the dispensing assembly 300 may not protrude into the interior cavity 101 of the container body 100 further than the neck portion 111. Thus, the dispensing assembly 300 may be located entirely within the neck portion 111 of the container body 100.

[0062] The inlet passageway 370 may comprise an inlet 371 and a vertical portion 372 that extends from the inlet 371 to the second gap G2. The inlet passageway 370 may further comprise a horizontal portion that extends from an end of the vertical portion 372 over the second end 312 of the base component 310 to align with the second opening 327 in the second end 312 of the base component 310. The vertical portion 372 requires the liquid to flow vertically from the inlet 371 to the second end 312 of the base component 310. The horizontal portion then requires the liquid to flow horizontally over the second end 312 of the base component 310 prior to the liquid flowing through the second opening 327 in the second end 312 of the base component 310 and into the cavity 315 of the base component 310. That is, when the container 1000 is held in the inverted orientation (e.g., when it is being used), the liquid 102 must flow vertically upwardly within the vertical portion 372 of the inlet passageway 370 (in a direction which is opposite gravity or the gravity vector) prior to being dispensed through the outlet opening 230. Thus, the structure of the dispensing assembly 300 forms a sort of dam feature that requires the liquid to flow up and overAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK the dam (formed by the upper wall portion 317 of the base component 310 of the dispensing assembly 300) prior to entering the cavity 315 from which the liquid 102 may be dispensed. The liquid may flow in a first vertical direction through the vertical portion 372 of the inlet passageway 370 and in a second vertical direction from the cavity 315 of the dispensing assembly 300 through the outlet opening 230, the first and second vertical directions being opposite one another. The liquid may be configured to flow in a U-shaped path when flowing through the inlet passageway 370 from the interior cavity of the container body 100 to the outlet opening 230 of the dispensing cap 200.

[0063] FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate a dispensing cap 400 in accordance with an alternative embodiment, the dispensing cap 400 comprises a body component 410 and a dispensing assembly 420. The dispensing assembly 420 is identical to the dispensing assembly 300, and thus the description of the dispensing assembly 300 above is completely applicable to the dispensing assembly 420. The body component 410 differs from the body component 210 previously described only with regard to the shape of the outer annular wall. In this embodiment, the outer annular wall of the body component 410 is vertically oriented and planar, as opposed to the arcuate and slightly angled outer annular wall 214 of the previously described above. Thus, FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate a slightly modified overall shape for the dispensing cap, although the function and operation remains the same and consistent with the previously described embodiment.

[0064] In the exemplified embodiment, there is no closure member placed over the free end of the dispensing cap 200. Thus, there is no need for a user to open a cap or closure member prior to inversion and subsequent squeezing of the container body 100 to dispense the liquid therefrom. Rather, the dispensing cap 200 is generally leak-proof such that the liquid does not leak out therefrom without a user applying a squeezing force to the container body 100 to dispense the liquid therefrom. To use the container 1000 and dispense the liquid 102 therefrom, a user simply needs to grab the container body 100 to take hold of the container 1000 and apply a squeezing force onto the body portion 110 of the container body 100 to dispense the liquid 102 through the dispensing assembly 300 and the outlet opening 230.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 12, an alternative embodiment of a dispensing assembly 300a will be described in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The dispensing assembly 300a is very similar to the dispensing assembly 300, and thus a similar numbering scheme will be used except the suffix “a” will be included at the end of the numeral. The discussion of theAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK dispensing assembly 300 and its component parts above is applicable to the dispensing assembly 300a, except for the differences specifically described and readily shown in the FIG. 12 illustration. The dispensing assembly 300a is configured to be coupled to the body component 210 or to the body component 410 in the same manner as the dispensing assemblies 300, 420.

[0066] The dispensing assembly 300a generally comprises a base component 310a, a cap component 350a, and a valve component 390a that are coupled together. The dispensing assembly 300a may comprise a longitudinal axis A- A. The base component 310a may be identical to the previously described base component 310, except that the base component 310a comprises a second wall portion 317a that is angled inwardly towards the longitudinal axis A-A. The cap component 350a comprises an end wall 351a and an annular sidewall 352a that extends in a outwardly angled manner from the end wall 351a. That is. the annular sidewall 352a is angled so as to diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A with increasing distance from the end wall 351a.

[0067] The dispensing assembly 300a comprises an inlet passageway 370a that forms a path for liquid to flow from outside of the dispensing assembly 300a into a cavity 315a that is formed between the inner surface of the base component 310a, a surface of the valve component 390a, and a surface of the end wall 351a of the cap component 350a. In this embodiment, there may be a first gap G3 located between the annular sidewall 352a of the cap component 350a and the second wall portion 317a of the base component 310a. Furthermore, there may be a second gap G4 located between the inner surface of the end wall 351a of the cap component 350a and the distal end of the upper wall portion 317a. The first and second gaps G3, G4 may be comparable to the first and second gaps Gl, G2 of the previous embodiment, and may collectively form the inlet passageway 370a. In various embodiments, the width of the first gap G3 and / or the second gap G4 is between .001” and .070”, for example. In at least one embodiment, the width of the first gap G3 and / or the second gap G4 is .002”, for example, and, in such instances, the dispensing assembly 300a may be suitable for dispensing water, for example. In at least one embodiment, the width of the first gap G3 and / or the second gap G4 is .060”, for example, and, in such instances, the dispensing assembly 300a may be suitable for more viscous concentrates, for example. In various instances, the first gap G3 and the second gap G4 create a pressure drop suited for the viscosity of the fluid in the container. The above being said, the width of the first gap G3 and / or the second gap G4 may be any suitable width.Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK

[0068] In this embodiment, the cap component 350a may be coupled to the base component 310a in an adjustable manner. That is, the cap component 350a may be coupled to the base component 310a in a variety of different positions by moving the cap component 350a in the direction of the longitudinal axis A-A relative to the base component 310a. Adjusting the position of the cap component 350a relative to the base component 310a will adjust the size of the first and second gaps G3, G4. This can allow for variations in the sizes of the first and second gaps G3, G4 in dependence on characteristics or properties of the liquid to be dispensed through the inlet passageway 370a, such as viscosity. For example, the first and second gaps Gl, G2 may be smaller for lower viscosity liquids and larger for higher viscosity liquids. Thus, rather than having to create different base and cap components for different liquids, the same base and cap components 310a, 350a may be used and their relative positions adjusted to allow for proper dispensing.

[0069] A container 2000 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 13. The container 2000 comprises a container body 100’ and a dispensing cap 500 attached to the container body 100’. The dispensing cap 500 is illustrated in FIGS. 13-18. The dispensing cap 500 comprises a cap body 510 and a dispensing assembly 600. The cap body 510 comprises a floor 511, an outer wall 512, and a connecting collar 520 extending from the floor 511 that is configured to attach the dispensing cap 500 to the container body 100’. The connecting collar 520 has one or more gaps 521 defined therein that permit the connecting collar 520 to resiliently flex radially outwardly, or laterally outwardly, when the dispensing cap 500 is assembled to the container body 100’, as discussed further below. In other embodiments, the connecting collar 520 can be contiguous, i.e., have a continuous perimeter therearound. When the dispensing cap 500 is attached to the container body 100’. referring primarily to FIG. 16, a proximal edge 519 of the dispensing cap 500 is received within a recess 109 defined in the top end 114 of the container body 100’ which can prevent, or at least inhibit, the rotation of the dispensing cap 500 relative to the container body 100’. The distal end of the dispensing cap 500 comprises an edge 516 having a wavy, undulating profile including notches and / or grooves defined therein. That said, the edge 516 can comprise any suitable configuration.

[0070] Further to the above, referring primarily to FIGS. 18 and 19, a neck portion 111 of the container body 100’ comprises an opening 115 defined therein that is configured to receive at least a portion of the dispensing assembly 600 therein. The dispensing assembly 600 comprises a base component 650, a basket component 610, and a valve component 690. The base component 650Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK comprises a cylindrical body, or plug, 651 configured to be closely received in the opening 115 to create a seal interface between the base component 650 and the container body 100’. In various instances, the outside surface of the cylindrical body 651 is in line-to-line contact with the interior surface of the opening 115. In some instances, the cylindrical body 651 is in a compression fit with the sidewall of the opening 115. The cylindrical body 651 further comprises a retention flange 658 extending circumferentially therearound that is positioned within a retention recess 108 extending circumferentially around the proximal side of the opening 115 when the base component 650 is fully seated in the opening 115. As a result of the above, the liquid in the container body 100’ does not flow between, or at least substantially flow between, the base component 650 and the container body 100’. Moreover, the interface between the retention flange 658 of the base component 650 and the container body 100’ holds the base component 650 in position including when the container body 100’ is squeezed to dispense the contents of the container body 100’ through the dispensing assembly 600, as discussed further below.

[0071] Further to the above, referring primarily to FIGS. 18, 19, and 20A-20C, the base component 650 further comprises an outer rim 652 extending around the cylindrical body 651 and a connecting flange 653 that connects the outer rim 652 to the cylindrical body 651. When the base component 650 is fully seated in the opening 115 in the container body 110’, as illustrated in FIG. 16, the outer rim 652 extends around the neck portion 111 of the container body 110’. In fact, in such instances, the outer rim 652 extends around at least a portion of a thread 112 defined on the outside of the neck portion 111. That said, embodiments are envisioned without a thread 112 defined on the outside of the neck portion 111. In at least one embodiment, the neck portion 111 can have a ridge and / or shoulder which is configured to be engaged by the outer rim 652 and retain the base component 650 to the container body 100’. When the dispensing cap 500 is assembled to the container body 100’, the dispensing cap 500 engages the outer rim 652 of the base component 650. The outer rim 652 comprises a ring of teeth 652’ extending therearound that are engaged by a mating set of teeth 522 defined on the inside of the connecting collar 520 of the cap body 510. The teeth 522 and 652’ are configured to retain the dispensing cap 500 to the container body 100’ via the base component 650 and inhibit the rotation of the dispensing cap 500 relative to the container body 100’. In at least one embodiment, the neck portion 111 of the container body 100’ can further comprise a ridge and / or shoulder which is configured to be engaged by the dispensing cap 500 and retain the dispensing cap 500 to the container body 100’.Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK

[0072] Further to the above, the base component 650 further comprises a proximal cavity 659 that faces the interior of the container body 100’ and is configured to receive the contents of the container body 100’ when the container 2000 is inverted to dispense the contents of the container 2000. Referring primarily to FIGS. 16 and 17, the proximal cavity 659 is defined by the cylindrical body 651 and a floor 654. The base component 650 further comprises an outlet aperture 655 that extends through the base component 650 and is in communication with the proximal cavity 659. The proximal end of the outlet aperture 655 is circumscribed, or surrounded, by a circular trough, or catch groove, 654a defined in the floor 654 that extends around the outlet aperture 655. The catch groove 654a is configured to receive a portion of the liquid in the container 2000 when the container 2000 is inverted to dispense the liquid and / or when the container 2000 is dropped on the ground with the dispending cap 500 facing downwardly. In various instances, the catch groove 654a can inhibit or prevent the sloshing of the fluid around the outlet aperture 655. The outlet aperture 655 comprises a first, or proximal, portion 655a and a second, or distal, portion 655b where the proximal portion 655a is defined by a first diameter and the distal portion 655b is defined by a second diameter that is larger than the first diameter. The distal portion 655b of the outlet aperture 655 is defined within a cylindrical wall 656 extending from an opposite side of the floor654. As discussed in greater detail below, the basket component 610 is positioned in the proximal and distal portions 655a, 655b of the outlet aperture 655.

[0073] Further to the above, referring primarily to FIGS. 21A-21C. the basket component 610 is positioned entirely in the outlet aperture 655 of the base component 650. That said, embodiments are envisioned in which the basket component 610 is not entirely positioned in the outlet aperture655. The basket component 610 comprises a first cylindrical portion 611, a second cylindrical portion 612 that extends around the first cylindrical portion 611, and connecting flanges 613 that connect the second cylindrical portion 612 to the first cylindrical portion 611. Referring primarily to FIG. 17. the first cylindrical portion 611 of the basket component 610 is positioned within the first portion 655a of the outlet aperture 655 and the second cylindrical portion 612 of the basket component 610 is positioned within the second portion 655b of the outlet aperture 655. The second cylindrical portion 612 of the basket component 610 is sized and configured such that it is closely received within the second portion 655b to create a seal interface between the second cylindrical portion 612 of the basket component 610 and the base component 650. In various instances, the outside surface of second cylindrical portion 612 is in line-to-line contact with the interior surfaceAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK of the second portion 655b of the outlet aperture 655. Tn some instances, the second cylindrical portion 612 is in a compression fit with the sidewall of the second portion 655b of the outlet aperture 655. On the other hand, the first cylindrical portion 611 of the basket component 610 is sized and configured such that an annular gap 601 is present between the first cylindrical portion 611 and the first portion 655a of the outlet aperture 655. The annular gap 601 extends around the first cylindrical portion 611 and is in communication with the proximal cavity 659 of the base component 650. Moreover, as discussed in greater detail below, the annular gap 601 provides a path, or supply channel, for the contents of the container body 100’ to flow into the basket component 610.

[0074] Further to the above, referring primarily to FIGS. 17 and 21A-21C, the basket component 610 further comprises apertures, or slots, 614 extending through the second cylindrical portion 612 of the base component 610. Each aperture 614 comprises an arcuate configuration extending between adjacent connecting flanges 613 of the basket component 610; however, the apertures 614 can comprise any suitable configuration. The connecting flanges 613 are positioned against a floor 656a of the second portion 655b of the outlet aperture 655 which co-operatively define arcuate gaps 602 between the basket component 610 and the second portion 655b of the outlet aperture 655. The arcuate gaps 602 are aligned with the arcuate apertures 614 and place the arcuate apertures 614 in communication with the annular gap 601. As a result of this arrangement, the contents of the container body 100’ can flow through the annular gap 601 into the arcuate gaps 602, through the arcuate apertures 614, and into a dispensing cavity 617 defined in the basket component 610. The distal end of the dispensing cavity 617 is defined by a valve component 690 which prevents, or at least inhibits, the contents in the basket component 610 from leaking out of the dispensing cavity 617 into the dispensing opening, or outlet, 530 defined in the cap body 510 of the dispensing cap 500, as discussed further below.

[0075] In various embodiments, the width of the annular gap 601 is between .001” and .070”, for example. In at least one embodiment, the width of the annular gap 601 is .002”, for example, and, in such instances, the dispensing assembly 600 may be suitable for dispensing water, for example. In at least one embodiment, the width of the annular gap 601 is .060”, for example, and, in such instances, the dispensing assembly 600 may be suitable for more viscous concentrates, for example. In various instances, the annular gap 601 creates a pressure drop suited for the viscosityAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK of the fluid in the container. The above being said, the width of the annular gap 601 may be any suitable width.

[0076] Further to the above, referring primarily to FIGS. 17 and 22A-22C, the valve component690 comprises a domed valve element 691, a circumferential seal element 692 extending around the domed valve element 691, and a connecting flange 693 that connects the circumferential seal element 692 to the domed valve element 691. The valve component 690 is comprised of a unitary piece of material comprised of silicone, for example; however, the valve component 690 can comprise an assembly of components and / or can be comprised of any suitable material, such as float silicone and / or one or more thermoplastic elastomers, for example. The domed valve element691 defines a rounded vault 696 and includes one or more slits defined therein which are configured to open when the domed valve element 691 is sufficiently deflected by a pressure, for example, being applied to the valve component 690, as discussed further below. The proximal side of the circumferential seal element 692 comprises a proximal seal interface 695 that is compressed against an angled seal interface 615 defined on the distal end of the basket component 610. The proximal seal interface 695 of the valve component 690 and the seal interface 615 of the basket component 610 extend at the same angle; however, the proximal seal interface 695 and the seal interface 615 can extend at different angles in other embodiments, hi at least one embodiment, the angled seal interface 615 and / or the proximal seal interface 695 extend at a 45 degree angle, for example. In various embodiments, the angled seal interface 615 and / or the proximal seal interface 695 extend at an angle between 40 degrees and 50 degrees, for example. In at least one such embodiment, the proximal seal interface 695 extends at a 40 degree angle and the angled seal interface 615 extends at a 50 degree angle, for example. In various embodiments, the angled seal interface 615 and / or the proximal seal interface 695 extend at an angle between 30 degrees and 60 degrees, for example. In various embodiments, the angles of the seal interfaces 615 and 695 are complementary; however, other embodiments are envisioned in which the angles of the seal interfaces 615 and 695 are not complementary.

[0077] Further to the above, the distal side of the circumferential seal element 692 comprises a distal seal interface 694 that is compressed against a seal interface, or ring, 542 that extends around the dispensing opening 530 of the cap body 510. When the cap body 510 is attached to the container body 100’, as described above, the seal ring 542 pushes against the valve component 690 and compresses the valve component 690 against the basket component 610. To the extentAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK that the basket component 610 is not already positioned against the floor 656a of the outlet aperture 655, as described above, the basket component 610 is moved into contact with the floor 656a and then the valve component 690 is compressed between the basket component 610 and the cap body 510 to create a liquid-tight, or an at least substantially liquid-tight, interface between the cap body 510 and the basket component 610 such that the contents in the container body 100’ do not escape, or at least substantially escape, from the interface between the basket component 610 and the valve component 690.

[0078] Further to the above, referring to FIG. 17, the base component 650 further comprises an annular bump, or ridge, 657 extending around the inner perimeter of the cylindrical wall 656 that defines the outlet aperture 655. The ridge 657 is sized and configured to support the circumferential seal element 692 of the valve element 690 when the valve element 690 is compressed between the cap body 510 and the basket component 610 as described above. Moreover, the interface between the ridge 657 and the circumferential seal element 692 cooperatively create a sealed interface between the valve element 690 and the base component 650 to prevent, or at least inhibit, the contents of the container body 100’ from bypassing the valve element 690.

[0079] Further to the above, referring again to FIG. 17, the dispensing cavity 617 is defined between the basket component 610 and the valve component 690. The basket component 610 comprises a basket, or cup, 616 defined in the first portion 611 thereof that is configured to hold therein a quantity of the liquid stored in the container 2000. In various instances, the container 2000 can become inverted when the container 2000 is transported, and / or otherwise handled, for example, thereby causing the liquid stored in the container 2000 to flow, via the force of gravity, through the arcuate apertures 614 defined in the basket component 610 into the dispensing chamber 617. When the container 2000 is dis-inverted and placed on a shelf, for example, a majority of the fluid in the container 2000 will fall to the bottom end 113 of the container body 110’; however, a quantity of the liquid can be captured by and retained within the cup 616 even though the container 2000 has been dis-inverted. Absent this quantity of liquid stored in the cup 616, an initial squeeze of the container body 100’ may result in a “dry squeeze”. Stated another way, it may take too long for the fluid in the bottom of the container body 110’ to flow through the arcuate apertures 614 into the dispensing cavity 617 before the user squeezes the container body 100’ after inverting the container 2000. Owing to the quantity of fluid stored in the cup 616,Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK however, an initial supply of liquid immediately flows onto the valve component 690 as soon as the container 2000 is inverted thereby providing a quick and ready supply of liquid to the valve component 690 such that the initial squeeze of the container body 100’ dispenses a satisfactory amount of liquid. In various instances, the cup 616 is sized and configured such that the quantity of liquid stored in the cup 616 comprises a serving size, or single use size, of the liquid. In such instances, the user may only need to squeeze the container body 100’ once to provide all the liquid needed. Such an arrangement can provide for a quick and satisfactory experience for the user.

[0080] When the container body 100’ is squeezed, further to the above, the contents of the container 2000 are forced through the arcuate apertures 614 to fill the dispensing cavity 617 if the dispensing cavity 617 has not already been filled. Such squeezing of the container body 100’ also pressurizes the fluid in the dispensing cavity 617 against the valve component 690. When the pressure against the valve component 690 exceeds a predetermined transition pressure, the deflection of the domed valve element 691 is sufficient to open up the one or more slits in the domed valve element 691 which allows the pressurized contents in the base component 610 to flow out of the container 100 through the dispensing opening 530. When the pressure against the valve component 690 begins to fall, the valve component 690 starts to resiliently return to its undeformed state. When the pressure against the valve element 690 drops below the predetermined transition pressure, the one or more slits in the domed valve element 691 close to re-seal the valve component 690 and the container 2000.

[0081] In various instances, further to the above, the container 2000 may unintentionally fall on the ground. When the container 2000 falls such that the bottom end 113 of the container body 100’ impacts the ground, the liquid in the container 2000 will impact the bottom end 113 of the container body 100’. When the container 2000 falls such that dispensing cap 500 impacts the ground, the liquid in the container 2000 will impact the dispensing assembly 600. In such instances, absent more, the liquid would impact the valve component 690 and burst through the slits defined in the domed valve element 691 thereby resulting in a spill. The basket component 610 of the dispensing assembly 600, however, comprises a shield that prevents, or at least inhibits, the liquid in the container body 100’ from directly impacting the domed valve element 691 in such instances. More specifically, the cup 616 of the basket component 610 is positioned vertically above the domed valve element 691 when the container 2000 is in an inverted orientation and, when the container 2000 impacts the ground in an inverted orientation, the fluid in the containerAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK body 100’ impacts the back side of the cup 616 instead of the domed valve element 691. As a result of this arrangement, the possibility of the slits in the domed valve element 691 opening up when the container 2000 falls on the ground is reduced.

[0082] Moreover, the arcuate slots 614 defined in the basket component 610 are vertically aligned with, or positioned above, the connecting flange 693 of the valve component 690 when the container 2000 is in an inverted orientation. Thus, when the container 2000 impacts the ground in an inverted orientation, the liquid in the container body 100’ that passes through the slots 614 impacts the connecting flange 693 of the valve component 690, i.e., at a location disposed laterally relative to the slits defined in the domed valve element 691. As a result of this arrangement, the impact force from the liquid stored in the container body 100’ does not act directly on the slits defined in the domed valve element 691. Moreover, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the domed valve element 691, the circumferential seal element 692, and the connecting flange 693 define an annular catch groove 699 therebetween that is vertically aligned with the slots 614 when the container 2000 is in an inverted orientation. Notably, the catch groove 699 is positioned vertically below the slits in the domed valve element 691, in such instances, such that the catch groove 699 can reduce the possibility of the fluid impacting the connecting flange 693 sloshing through the slits. As a result of this arrangement, the unintentional leakage of the contents in the container 2000 through the valve component 690 is prevented, or at least inhibited.

[0083] Further to the above, the dispensing cap 500 does not comprise a lid. As a result, the container 2000 is in an easy, ready-to-use state without having to manually open a lid. In various instances, a cover and / or seal, for example, can be attached to the lid-less dispensing cap 500 to protect the container 2000 and / or the contents of the container 2000 during shipping, for example. In such instances, the cover and / or seal can be removed before the first use of, or first dispensement from, the container 2000. In various other embodiments, the dispensing cap 500 could comprise a lid which may be desired for some applications.

[0084] In various embodiments, as discussed herein, a container can be configured to store and dispense a liquid. All of the containers disclosed herein can be adapted to store and dispense any suitable mixture, solution, single phase liquid system, multiple phase liquid system, slurry, and / or semiliquid, for example. Moreover, the liquid can have any suitable viscosity. In various embodiments, the liquid comprises a liquid soap, for example. Moreover, in various embodiments, the liquid comprises a cleansing and / or emulsifying agent made by the action of alkali on fat orAttorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK fatty acids and includes sodium or potassium salts of such acids, for example. The above being said, an interface that is said to be sealed or fluid-tight, can be sealed or made tight for any suitable mixture, solution, single phase liquid system, multiple phase liquid system, slurry, and / or semiliquid, for example, that is stored in the container. Moreover, for any interface that is said to be sealed or fluid-tight it should be understood that some leakage can occur owing to, among other things, the materials and / or manufacturing tolerances employed to create the container.

[0085] As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range. In addition, all references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. In the event of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited reference, the present disclosure controls.

[0086] While the invention has been described with respect to specific examples including presently preferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of the above described systems and techniques. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Thus, the spirit and scope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PKCLAIMS1. A container comprising: a container body, comprising: an interior cavity for storing a liquid; a top end comprising a connection portion, wherein the connection portion defines an outlet aperture in communication with the interior cavity; and a bottom end configured to support the container body in an upright position on a support surface with the top end positioned vertically above the bottom end; a dispensing assembly, comprising: a base component positioned in the outlet aperture, wherein the base component comprises a cavity; a basket component positioned in the cavity of the base component, wherein the basket component comprises a receptacle configured to hold a quantity of the liquid therein when the container body is in the upright position; and a valve configurable in a closed state and an open state, wherein the basket component is aligned with the valve such that the quantity of liquid in the receptacle is readily dispensable through the valve when the valve is in its open state; and a cap, wherein a portion of the valve is compressed between the cap and the basket component, wherein the cap comprises a dispensing aperture, and wherein liquid passing through the valve can exit the container through the dispensing aperture.

2. The container according to claim 1, wherein the basket component is entirely positioned in the cavity of the base component.

3. The container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the cap is affixed to the base component of the dispensing assembly.

4. The container according to any one of claim 1 to claim 3, wherein the receptacle is positioned vertically below the valve when the container body is in its upright position.Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK5. The container according to claim 4, wherein the valve and the basket component define a dispensing cavity between the valve and the receptacle of the basket component.

6. The container according to claim 5, wherein the basket component comprises a basket housing and an array of inlets surrounding the basket housing, and wherein the dispensing cavity is in communication with the interior cavity of the container body through the inlets.

7. The container according to claim 6, wherein the dispensing cavity is only in communication with the interior cavity of the container body through the inlets.

8. The container according to claim 6, wherein a supply channel is defined between the basket housing and a sidewall of the outlet aperture of the base component, and wherein the supply channel connects the interior cavity of the container body with the inlets.

9. The container according to claim 8, wherein the valve comprises an openable slit that opens when the valve transitions from its closed state to its open state, wherein the slit is vertically aligned with the basket when the container body is in its upright position, and wherein the slit is not vertically aligned with the inlets or the supply channel when the container body is in its upright position.

10. The container according to claim 9, wherein the valve comprises a catch groove vertically aligned with the array of inlets and the supply channel when the container body is turned upside down.

11. The container according to claim 10, wherein the catch groove is positioned vertically below the slit when the container body is turned upside down.

12. The container according to claim 8, wherein the base component further comprises a catch groove extending around the supply channel.Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK13. The container according to claim 12, wherein the catch groove is positioned vertically above the inlets when the container is turned upside down.

14. The container according to claim 6, wherein the valve comprises a catch groove vertically aligned with the array of inlets when the container body is turned upside down.

15. A container comprising: a container body, comprising: an interior cavity for storing a liquid; a dispensing end comprising an outlet aperture in communication with the interior cavity; and a base end configured to support the container body in an upright position on a support surface with the dispensing end positioned vertically above the base end; a dispensing system, comprising: a base positioned in the outlet aperture, wherein the base comprises a cavity; a cup positioned in the cavity of the base, wherein the cup is configured to hold a quantity of the liquid therein when the container body is in the upright position; and a valve configurable in a closed state and an open state, wherein the cup is positioned vertically below the valve when the container body is in the upright position such that the quantity of liquid in the cup is readily dispensable through the valve when the valve is in its open state; and a cap comprising a dispensing aperture, and wherein liquid passing through the valve can exit the container through the dispensing aperture.

16. The container according to claim 15, wherein a portion of the valve is compressed between the cap and the cup.

17. The container according to claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the valve and the cup component define a dispensing cavity between the valve and the cup.Attorney Docket No. 931767-Ol-WO-Ol-PK18. A container comprising: a container body, comprising: an interior cavity for storing a liquid; a dispensing end comprising an outlet aperture in communication with the interior cavity; and a second end positionable on a support surface that can support the container body in an upright position; a dispensing system, comprising: a base positioned in the outlet aperture, wherein the base comprises a cavity; a shield positioned in the cavity of the base; and a valve configurable in a closed state and an open state, wherein a dispensing cavity is defined between the valve and the shield that can hold a quantity of the liquid that is readily dispensable through the valve when the valve is in its open state, and wherein the shield is configured to inhibit the liquid in the interior cavity from impacting against the valve when the container is dropped onto a support surface; and a cap comprising a dispensing aperture, and wherein liquid passing through the valve can exit the container through the dispensing aperture.

19. The container according to claim 18, wherein the dispensing system further comprises an array of inlets that place the interior cavity in communication with the dispensing cavity.

20. The container according to claim 18, wherein the quantity of the liquid comprises a recommended usage size.

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