Child resistant container

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to child-resistant containers (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500, 2600) 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 16960WO (01621)

[0002] ORAL PRODUCT CONTAINER WITH LOCKING WASTE COMPARTMENT

[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 etal.; 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 etal.; PCT Pub. Nos. WO04 / 095959 to Amarp etal.; 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 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,Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0009] 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.

[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 that defines an internal space accessible via an opening. The body portion comprises a bottom wall and a sidewall extending upwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the bottom wall, the sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface and a top edge defining the opening, wherein the outer surface of the side wall defines an inclined ramp extending at least partially about a perimeter of the outer surface of the sidewall. The container further comprises a retention mechanism disposed about a perimeter of the inner surface of the sidewall proximate the top edge defining the opening, a cover configured to securely and removably engage the body portion, 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 mating retention mechanism disposed in the cover sidewall or the cover top wall and extending at least partially about a perimeter of the cover and configured to removably engage the retention mechanism when the cover is engaged with the bodyAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0016] portion, and a button assembly disposed in the cover sidewall and comprising a flexible / resilient wall portion and a wedge disposed on the inner surface of the cover sidewall, wherein the wedge defines a gap between a distal (or inner) surface thereof and the outer surface of the body portion sidewall in an unflexed orientation and the wedge engages a top surface of the inclined ramp when the button is flexed / pressed, such that the wedge rides along a top surface of the inclined ramp when the cover is squeezed and rotated relative to the body portion so that the ramp provides an upward force to the cover via the interaction with the wedge to move the cover vertically with respect to the body portion and disengage the retention mechanism from the mating retention mechanism.

[0017] Example Implementation 2: The child resistant container of the preceding example implementation, wherein the inclined ramp extends about the entire perimeter of the outer surface of the sidewall.

[0018] Example Implementation 3: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the inclined ramp comprises a sawtooth wave pattern; and / or wherein the inclined ramp comprises a starting point and an end point and the starting point has a lower vertical orientation on the outer surface of the sidewall than the end point; and / or wherein the wedge engages the top surface of the inclined ramp only proximate the starting point of the inclined ramp; and / or wherein the button assembly comprises two buttons disposed in direct opposition, each button comprising a flexible / resilient wall portion and a wedge disposed on the inner surface of the cover sidewall; and / or wherein the inclined ramp comprises a plurality of inclined ramps and each opposing wedge engages a top surface of a corresponding one of the plurality of inclined ramps at a vertical low point of the corresponding inclined ramp; and / or wherein the cover is disengaged from the body portion by the application of a first / horizontal force applied to the cover via the button assembly and a second / vertical force applied to the cover via rotation of the cover relative to the body portion (i.e., a force vector is transferred from the engagement of the protuberance and inclined ledge); and / or wherein the body portion sidewall comprises a lower (horizontal) region and an upper (horizontal) region separated by a ledge; and / or wherein the outer surface of the upper region is recessed relative to the outer surface of the lower region and the inclined ramp is disposed about a perimeter of the outer surface of the upper region; and / or wherein the gap between the wedge(s) and the outer surface of the body portion sidewall is oriented between the distal / inner surface of the wedge(s) and the upper portion of the body portion sidewall in the unflexed orientation; and / or wherein the outer surface of the cover sidewall is configured to sit substantially flush with the outer surface of the lower region of sidewall of the body portion when engaged.

[0019] Example Implementation 4: The container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, further comprising a lid disposed in the top wall of the cover, wherein the lid is removable. In some embodiments, the lid is hingedly coupled to the cover.

[0020] Example Implementation 5: The 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.

[0021] Example Implementation 6: 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 extendingAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0022] upwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the bottom wall, the sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface and a top edge defining the opening. The container further comprising a button assembly disposed in the sidewall, wherein the button assembly is defined by a vertical gap in the sidewall at a first end and a pivot point at a second end thereof configured to allow a portion of the sidewall to flex relative to the pivot point in the sidewall; a first retention mechanism disposed on a top surface of the button assembly and extending upwardly therefrom, the first retention mechanism comprising a tang defining an abutment surface at a distal end thereof, wherein the button assembly is configured to move the first retention mechanism inwardly upon application of a force to an outer surface thereof; a cover configured to securely and removably engage the body portion, 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; and a first mating retention mechanism disposed on the inner surface of the cover sidewall and extending at least partially about a perimeter of the cover and recessed into the inner surface of the cover sidewall, the first mating retention mechanism defining a radial catch configured to removably engage the abutment surface of the first retention mechanism when the cover is engaged with the body portion, 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, thereby allowing the cover to rotate relative to the body portion.

[0023] Example Implementation 7: The child resistant container of the preceding example implementation, wherein the cover is configured to engage the body portion via a rotational force.

[0024] Example Implementation 8: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the abutment surface of the first retention mechanism is configured rotate past the first mating retention mechanism when the cover is rotated in the clockwise direction; and / or wherein the abutment surface of the first retention mechanism is configured engage the radial catch of the first mating retention mechanism when the cover is first rotated in the counter-clockwise direction preventing further counter-clockwise rotation of the cover relative to the body portion; and / or further comprising a second retention mechanism disposed about a perimeter of the outer surface of the sidewall and oriented vertically above the button assembly and a second mating retention mechanism disposed on and extending at least partially about the perimeter of the inner surface of the cover sidewall, the second mating retention mechanism configured to removably engage the second retention mechanism when the cover is engaged with the body portion; and / or wherein the second retention mechanism comprises a discontinuous thread extending about a perimeter of the outer surface of the sidewall; and / or wherein the second mating retention mechanism comprises a continuous thread having a mating thread pitch with the second retention mechanism; and / or wherein the corresponding thread extends about the entire perimeter of the inner surface of the cover sidewall; and / or wherein the second retention mechanism and the second mating retention mechanism are engaged via a clockwise rotation of the cover relative to the body portion and disengaged via a counter-clockwise rotation of the cover relative to the body portion while depressing the button assembly; and / or further comprising a third retention mechanism disposed about a perimeter of the top edge of the body portion sidewall defining the opening and a third mating retentionAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0025] mechanism defined by a receptacle in the bottom surface of the cover top wall and extending about a perimeter thereof, the receptacle coextensive with the top edge of the body portion sidewall and configured to frictionally engage the third retention mechanism when the cover is engaged with the body portion; and / or wherein the third retention mechanism and the third mating retention mechanism are engaged via the clockwise rotation of the cover relative to the body portion and disengaged via a counter-clockwise rotation of the cover relative to the body portion; and / or 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; and / or wherein the top edge defining the opening is the top edge of the inner sidewall and the first retention mechanism is disposed proximate to and partially about a perimeter of the outer surface of the outer sidewall; and / or wherein the pivot point of the button assembly comprises a vertical groove in the outer surface of the outer sidewall; and / or wherein the pivot point is configured to return the button assembly to an unflexed orientation after the first force is removed; and / or wherein the outer sidewall is coupled to the inner sidewall via a lateral extension; and / or wherein the button assembly comprises two buttons disposed in direct opposition, each button defined by a vertical gap in the sidewall at a first end and a pivot point at a second end thereof configured to allow a portion of the sidewall to flex relative to the pivot point in the sidewall; and / or wherein the outer sidewall and the inner sidewall define a channel therebetween, and the first end of each button comprises an inward radial projection that extends towards the inner sidewall and has a length less than a width of the channel; and / or wherein each button comprises a plurality of radial buttresses; and / or wherein the first mating retention mechanism comprises four radial catches spaced equidistant about a perimeter of the inner surface of the cover sidewall; and / or wherein the cover is disengaged from the body portion by the application of a first force applied to the cover via the button assembly and a second force applied to the cover via rotation of the cover relative to the body portion; and / or wherein the body portion sidewall comprises a lower (horizontally oriented) region and an upper (horizontally oriented) region separated by a ledge; and / or wherein the outer surface of the upper region is recessed relative to the outer surface of the lower region and the first retention mechanism is disposed on top of the ledge; and / or wherein the outer surface of the upper region is recessed relative to the outer surface of the lower region and the second retention mechanism is disposed about a perimeter of the outer surface of the upper region; and / or 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; and / or further comprising a lid disposed in the top wall of the cover, wherein the lid is removable. In some embodiments, the lid may be hingedly coupled to the cover; and / or wherein the cover further comprises a receptacle formed therein and accessible via removal of the lid.

[0026] Example Implementation 9: 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 and about a peripheral edge of the bottom wall, the sidewall 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; a second retention mechanismAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0027] disposed about a perimeter of the outer surface of the sidewall and oriented vertically above the first retention mechanism; a third retention mechanism disposed about a perimeter of the top edge of the body portion sidewall 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; a cover configured to securely and removably engage the body portion, 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 disposed on the inner surface of the cover sidewall and extending at least partially about a perimeter of the cover and configured to removably engage the first retention mechanism when the cover is engaged with the body portion; a second mating retention mechanism disposed on and extending at least partially about the perimeter of the inner surface of the cover sidewall and oriented vertically above the first mating retention mechanism, the second mating retention mechanism configured to removably engage the second retention mechanism when the cover is engaged with the body portion; and a third mating retention mechanism defined by a receptacle in the bottom surface of the cover top wall and configured to frictionally engage the third retention mechanism when the cover is engaged with the body portion, 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 allowing the cover to rotate relative to the body portion.

[0028] Example Implementation 10: 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 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 (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 16960WO (01621)

[0029] Example Implementation 11: 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.

[0030] Example Implementation 12: 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; and / or 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; and / or 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; and / or wherein the button assembly is formed in the outer sidewall and defined by first and second vertical gaps in the outer sidewall; and / or 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; and / or 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; and / or wherein the button assembly comprises two buttons disposed in direct opposition on the body portion; and / or further comprising a removable lid disposed in the top wall of the cover. In some embodiments, the lid is hingedly coupled to the cover; and / or wherein the cover further comprises a receptacle formed therein and accessible via removal of the lid; and / or 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; and / or wherein the substantially similar angles are about 10 degrees off of horizontal; however, the exact angle(s) may vary to suit a particular application; and / or 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.

[0031] Example Implementation 13: A child resistant container comprising a body portion that defines an internal space accessible via an opening, a cover configmed to securely and removably engage the body portion, and a removable lid configured to securely and removably engage the cover. The body portion comprises a bottom wall and a sidewall extending upwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the bottom wall. The cover comprises 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. The removable lid is disposed in the top wall of the cover and comprises a locking mechanism.

[0032] Example Implementation 14: The child resistant container of the preceding example implementation, wherein the cover further comprises a receptacle formed therein and accessible via removal of the lid.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0033] Example Implementation 15: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one of the locking embodiments disclosed herein.

[0034] Example Implementation 16: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the lid is disengaged from the cover by the application of a first force applied to the cover or lid via a button assembly and a second force applied to the lid via rotation.

[0035] Example Implementation 17: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the lid is configured to engage the cover via a rotational force.

[0036] Example Implementation 18: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the lid is configured to engage the cover via a snap fit.

[0037] Example Implementation 19: 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 and about a peripheral edge of the bottom wall, the sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface and a top edge defining the opening; a cover configured to securely and removably engage the body portion, 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; and a removable lid configured to securely and removably engage the cover, wherein the removable lid comprises a locking mechanism for engaging the cover.

[0038] Example Implementation 20: 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 a top surface of the cover top wall and an inner surface of the cover inner sidewall defines a second internal space.

[0039] Example Implementation 21: 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.

[0040] Example Implementation 22: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the locking mechanism comprises one or more locking projections that engage a channel in the mating locking mechanism, the one or more locking projections disposed about a perimeter of the lid sidewall.

[0041] Example Implementation 23: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the lockingAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0042] mechanism comprises three locking projections equally spaced about the lid (e.g., 120 degrees). In some embodiments, the quantity and locations of the projections may vary to suit a particular application.

[0043] Example Implementation 24: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the mating locking mechanisms comprises three openings equally spaced about the cover. Generally, the openings are sized and shaped to allow the projections to pass therethrough vertically when the lid and cover are properly aligned in their unlocked orientation.

[0044] Example Implementation 25: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the lid further comprises one or more push points (e.g., buttons or depressions) disposed on a surface thereof and configured to rotate the lid to align the locking mechanism and the mating locking mechanism into a locked or unlocked orientation.

[0045] Example Implementation 26: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein further comprising a spring mechanism configured to bias one or mating surfaces between the cover and the lid into frictional engagement.

[0046] Example Implementation 27: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the push points are further configured disengage the frictional engagement of the cover and the lid by application of a force thereto.

[0047] Example Implementation 28: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the locking mechanism comprises three locking projections non-equally spaced about the lid; however, the quantity and locations of the projections may vary to suit a particular application.

[0048] Example Implementation 29: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the mating locking mechanisms comprises three openings non-equally spaced about the cover.

[0049] Example Implementation 30: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the locking projections and the openings comprise corresponding orientations.

[0050] Example Implementation 31: 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.

[0051] Example Implementation 32: The child resistant container of any preceding example implementation, or any combination of any preceding example implementations, wherein the cover is removable from the body portion by flexing one or more portions of the body portion sidewall inwardly to disengage the first retention mechanism from the first mating retention mechanism upon application of a force thereto. For example, flexing one or more portions of the body portion sidewall inwardly exposes a lower edgeAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0052] of the cover to allow a user to apply an upward force to the cover to cause the first retention mechanism to disengage first mating retention mechanism.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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 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.

[0055] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0056] 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:

[0057] 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;

[0058] 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;

[0059] 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;

[0060] 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;

[0061] 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;

[0062] 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;

[0063] 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;

[0064] 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;Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0065] 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; and

[0066] 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.

[0067] FIG. 7 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;

[0068] FIGS. 8A - 8C are a series of schematic, partially exploded perspective views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 7 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0069] FIG. 9 A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 7 taken at line D-D in FIG. 7 and partially exploded according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0070] FIG. 9B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 9A rotated approximately 90 degrees and unexploded according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0071] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 7 with a portion of the cover removed according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0072] FIG. 10A is an enlarged top view of a portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 10 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0073] FIG. 11 is a schematic bottom perspective view of a cover for the child-resistant container of FIG. 7 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0074] FIG. 12 is a schematic top perspective view of a body portion for the child-resistant container of FIG.

[0075] 7 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0076] FIGS. 13A-13D are schematic bottom perspective views of a portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 7 illustrating the operation of the child resistant container according to some example implementations of the present disclosure; and

[0077] FIG. 14 is a schematic side perspective view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 7 in an actuated configuration according to some example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0078] FIG. 15 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;

[0079] FIGS. 16A-16D are a series of schematic, partially exploded perspective views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 15 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0080] FIG. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 15 taken at line E-E in FIG. 15 and partially exploded according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0081] FIGS. 18A and 18B are enlarged schematic cross-sectional exploded views of portions of the childresistant container of FIG. 17 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0082] FIG. 19A is a schematic bottom perspective view of a body portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 15 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0083] FIG. 19B is a schematic bottom perspective view of a cover for the child-resistant container of FIG.

[0084] 15 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0085] FIGS. 20A and 20B are schematic cross-sectional side views of a portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 15 taken at line E-E in FIG. 15 illustrating the operation of the child resistant container according to some example implementations;

[0086] FIG. 21 is a schematic top view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 15 illustrating the operation of the child resistant container according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0087] FIGS. 22A and 22B are schematic side views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 15 illustrating the operation of the child resistant container according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0088] FIGS. 23A-23C are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0089] FIG. 23D is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 23A depicting a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0090] FIG. 24A is schematic top perspective view of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0091] FIGS. 24B and 24C are schematic side views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 24A depicting operation of the locking secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0092] FIGS. 24D and 24E are schematic end views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 24A depicting a locking system for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0093] FIGS. 25A-25C are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0094] FIGS. 26A-26C are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0095] FIGS. 27A and 27B are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0096] FIG. 27C is an enlarged sectional portion of a portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 27A depicting a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0097] FIGS. 28A and 28B are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0098] FIG. 28C is a schematic top perspective view of a cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 28A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0099] FIG. 28D is another schematic top perspective view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 28A, rotated about 90 degrees, in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0100] FIG. 28E is a schematic top view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 28A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0101] FIGS. 28F is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 28E taken at line F-F of FIG. 28E according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0102] FIG. 28G is a schematic front view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 28A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a childresistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0103] FIG. 28H is a schematic side view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 28 A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0104] FIG. 281 is a partial schematic bottom view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 28A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0105] FIG. 28J is a schematic top perspective view of a lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG.

[0106] 28A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a childresistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0107] FIG. 28K is a schematic front view of the lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 28A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0108] FIG. 28L is a schematic side view of the lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 28A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0109] FIG. 28M is a schematic bottom view of the lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 28 A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0110] FIGS. 29A and 29D are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0111] FIGS. 29B and 29C are cross-sectional views of a cover portion and a lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 29A taken at line G-G in FIG. 29A and depicting a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0112] FIGS. 30A and 30C are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0113] FIG. 30B is a schematic top view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 30A depicting a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0114] FIGS. 31 A and 3 ID are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0115] FIG. 3 IB is a schematic side view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 31A depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0116] FIG. 31C is a schematic top view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 31A depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0117] FIGS. 32 A and 32B are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0118] FIG. 32C is a schematic top perspective view of a cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 31A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0119] FIG. 32D is schematic top view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 31A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0120] FIGS. 32E is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 31 Ataken at line H-H of FIG. 32D according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0121] FIG. 32F is a schematic bottom perspective view of a lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 31A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0122] FIG. 32G is a schematic side view of the lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 31A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0123] FIG. 32H is a schematic front view of the lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 31 A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0124] FIG. 33 A is a schematic top perspective view of a portion of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0125] FIG. 33B is a schematic front view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 33A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0126] FIG. 33C is a schematic top, exploded perspective view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 33A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a childresistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0127] FIG. 33D is a schematic top view of a cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 33A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0128] FIG. 33E is a schematic top perspective view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 33A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0129] FIG. 33F is a schematic front view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 33 A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0130] FIG. 33 G is a schematic side view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 33 A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0131] FIGS. 33H is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 33 A taken at line I-I of FIG. 33D according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0132] FIG. 331 is a schematic top view of a lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 33A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0133] FIG. 33J is a schematic top perspective view of the lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG.

[0134] 33A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a childresistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0135] FIG. 33K is a schematic front view of the lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 33A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0136] FIG. 33L is a schematic side view of the lid portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 33A in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0137] FIG. 34A is a schematic top perspective view of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0138] FIGS. 34B and 34C are schematic top views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 34A depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0139] FIGS. 35A and 35B are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0140] FIG. 35C is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 35A depicting a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0141] FIGS. 35D is a schematic perspective view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 35A depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0142] FIGS. 36A and 36B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0143] FIGS. 36C and 36D are cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 36A taken at line J-J in FIG. 36A and depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0144] FIGS. 37A and 37B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0145] FIGS. 37C and 37D are cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 37A taken at line K-K in FIG. 37A and depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0146] FIGS. 38A and 38B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0147] FIGS. 38C and 38D are cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 38A taken at line L-L in FIG. 38A and depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0148] FIGS. 39A and 39B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0149] FIGS. 39C and 39D are cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 39A taken at line M-M in FIG. 39A and depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0150] FIG. 39E is a schematic partially exploded perspective view of the child-resistant container of FIG.

[0151] 39A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0152] FIG. 39F is an enlarged bottom perspective view of the locking mechanism of the child-resistant container of FIG. 39A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0153] FIGS. 40A and 40B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0154] FIG. 40C is a top perspective view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 40A depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0155] FIG. 40D is a bottom perspective view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG.

[0156] 40A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0157] FIGS. 40E and 40F are cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 40A taken at line N-N in FIG. 40A and depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0158] FIGS. 41 A and 4 IB are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0159] FIGS. 41C-41E are cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 41A taken at line O-O in FIG. 41A and depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0160] FIG. 4 IF is a top perspective view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 41 A depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0161] FIG. 41G is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 41A depicting the locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0162] FIG. 41H is a bottom perspective view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG.

[0163] 41 A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0164] FIG. 411 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 41 A with an alternative body portion according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0165] FIGS. 42A and 42B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0166] FIGS. 42C and 42D are cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 42A taken at line P-P in FIG. 42A and depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0167] FIGS. 42E and 42F are schematic top perspective and side views, respectively, of the container body portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 42A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0168] FIGS. 42G and 42H are schematic top perspective views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 42A depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0169] FIGS. 421 and 42J are enlarged top perspective views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 42A depicting the locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0170] FIGS. 43A and 43B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0171] FIG. 43 C is a bottom perspective view of the cover portion of the child-resistant container of FIG.

[0172] 43 A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0173] FIGS. 43D and 43F are schematic top perspective views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 43 A depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0174] FIGS. 43E and 43G are enlarged cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container of FIGS. 43D and FIG. 43F, respectively, depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0175] FIGS. 43H and 431 are cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 43 A taken at line Q-Q in FIG. 43 A and depicting operation of a locking mechanism for the cover portion according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0176] FIGS. 43 J and 43K are schematic cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 43 A with an alternative body portion according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0177] FIG. 44A is a schematic perspective view of a child-resistant container for holding a tobaccocontaining material according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0178] FIG. 44B is a schematic perspective view of an alternative child-resistant container for holding a tobacco-containing material according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0179] FIGS. 45A and 45B are schematic top views of the child-resistant containers of FIGS. 44A and 44B, respectively, according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0180] FIG. 46 is a schematic front or rear view of the child-resistant container of either FIG. 44A or FIG.

[0181] 44B according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0182] FIG. 47 A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 44 A taken at line R-R in FIG. 45 A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0183] FIG. 47B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 44 A taken at line S-S in FIG. 45A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0184] FIG. 47C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 44B taken at line T-T in FIG. 45B according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0185] FIG. 48 is a schematic top perspective view of a body portion for use with the child-resistant container of FIG. 44A or 44B according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0186] FIG. 49 is a schematic top view of the body portion of FIG. 48 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0187] FIGS. 50A and 50B are schematic top perspective views of two different covers for use with the body portion of FIG. 48 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0188] FIGS. 51A and 5 IB are schematic top views of the covers of FIGS. 50A and 50B, respectively, according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0189] FIGS. 52A and 52B are schematic bottom views of the covers of FIGS. 50A and 50B, respectively, according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0190] FIGS. 53 A and 53B are schematic bottom perspective views of the covers of FIGS. 50A and 50B, respectively, according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0191] FIG. 54A is a schematic side view of the cover of FIG. 50A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0192] FIG. 54B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cover of FIG. 50A taken at line U-U in FIG. 51A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0193] FIG. 54C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cover of FIG. 50 A taken at line R-R in FIG. 45 A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0194] FIG. 55 is a schematic top perspective view of the container of FIG. 44A with the lid removed according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0195] FIG. 56A is a schematic bottom perspective view of a lid for use with the container of FIG. 44A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0196] FIG. 56B is a schematic bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the lid of FIG. 56 A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0197] FIG. 56C is a schematic bottom view of the lid of FIG. 56A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0198] FIG. 56D is a schematic front view of an alternative embodiment of the lid of FIG. 56A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0199] FIG. 56E is a schematic side view of an alternative embodiment of the lid of FIG. 56A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0200] FIG. 56F is a schematic cross-sectional view of the alternative embodiment of the lid of FIG. 56A taken at line V-V in FIG. 56A according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0201] FIG. 57A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a locking mechanism for a first internal compartment of the container of FIG. 44A or 44B taken as indicated in FIG. 47B according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0202] FIGS. 57B-57D are enlarged cross-sectional perspective views of the locking mechanism for the first internal compartment of the container of FIG. 44Aor44B taken as indicated in FIGS. 47Aand47C according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0203] FIGS. 57E and 57F are enlarged cross-sectional views of a locking mechanism for a second internal compartment of any of the containers disclosed herein and taken as indicated in FIG. 47B according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0204] FIG. 58 is a schematic top view of a child-resistant container in accordance with any of the example container implementations of the present disclosure with a child-resistant secondary compartment according to some example implementations;

[0205] FIG. 59 is a schematic, partially exploded perspective views of the child-resistant container of FIG.

[0206] 58 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0207] FIG. 60A is a schematic cross-sectional exploded view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 59 taken at line W-W in FIG. 58 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0208] FIG. 60B is a schematic cross-sectional exploded view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 59 taken at line X-X in FIG. 58 and partially exploded according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0209] FIG. 61 is a schematic top perspective view of a body portion of the child-resistant container of FIG.

[0210] 58 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0211] FIGS. 62A and 62B are schematic front and side views, respectively, of the body portion of the childresistant container of FIG. 58 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0212] FIG. 63 is a schematic top view of a cover of the child-resistant container of FIG. 58 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0213] FIG. 64 is a schematic top perspective view of the cover of FIG. 63 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0214] FIGS. 65 A and 65B are schematic front and side views, respectively, of the cover of FIG. 63 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0215] FIG. 66 is a schematic bottom view of the cover of FIG. 63 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0216] FIG. 67 is a schematic top perspective view of a lid of the child-resistant container of FIG. 58 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0217] FIG. 68 is a schematic bottom view of the lid of FIG. 67 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0218] FIGS. 69A and 69B are schematic bottom perspective views of the lid of FIG. 67 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure; andAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0219] FIGS. 70A and 70B are schematic front and side views, respectively, of the lid of FIG. 67 according to some example implementations of the present disclosure.

[0220] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0221] 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.

[0222] 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.

[0223] 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 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. Furthermore, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified, the terms “data,” “content,” “digital content,” “information,” and similar terms may be at times used interchangeably. Additionally, where multiples of the same components are described, the multiples may be referred to individually (e.g., ##a, ##b, ##c, etc.) or collectively (##).

[0224] 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.

[0225] 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.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0226] 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. Patent Pub. No. 2013 / 0206153 to Beeson et al.; each of which is incorporated by reference herein.

[0227] 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.

[0228] 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.

[0229] 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 theAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0230] 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.

[0231] 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.

[0232] 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.

[0233] 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 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.

[0234] 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 secondAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0235] 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).

[0236] 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.

[0237] 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.

[0238] 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.

[0239] 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).Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0240] 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 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.

[0241] 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.

[0242] 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.

[0243] 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 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 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.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0244] 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.

[0245] 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 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 to correspond with the first chamfered surface 166a at any rotational orientation of the cover 104.

[0246] 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 chamfered surface to the upward chamfered surface at least partially disengaging the cover from the body portion.

[0247] 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.

[0248] The downward and upward chamfered surfaces 166a, 166b may have substantially similar angles to engage one another when the buttons 124 flex inwardly; however, the angles of the chamfered surfaces do notAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0249] 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.

[0250] 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 sidewall 118 proximate a lower edge 142 of the cover 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 sidewall 118, although the first mating retention mechanism 134b may extend along the entire perimeter / circumference of the cover 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 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).

[0251] 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.

[0252] 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 sidewall 118. As shown, the inner surface of the cover 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 sidewall 118, including their retention mechanisms 134a, 134b, 136a, 136b, enable the snap fit. In some embodiments, the bottom edge 142 of the cover 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. 6A.

[0253] 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 firstAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0254] retention mechanism 134a is released from the first mating retention mechanism 134b of the cover, and a portion of the force (FT) 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 the cover may also provide access to the bottom edge 142 of the cover 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.

[0255] 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).

[0256] 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.

[0257] 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 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 liftAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0258] 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.

[0259] 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.

[0260] FIGS. 7-12 depict a first example implementation of a child resistant container 200 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Generally, the container 200 includes a base or body portion 202 that may be configured to hold a consumer product and a lid and / or cover 204 configured to be securely, but removably, coupled to the body portion 202, each of which is described in greater detail below. As shown in FIG. 6, the cover 204 and body portion 202 may abut one another when engaged and their respective outer surfaces may be flush with one another, making it difficult to separate the two parts. In some implementations, the cover 204 is secured to the body portion 202 via a snap or interference fit, which provides additional resistance to separating the two parts. The engagement of the cover 204 and body portion 202 are shown in greater detail and described with respect to FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 13A-13D below.

[0261] As shown, 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.

[0262] The sidewall 210 extends around the entire perimeter of the body portion 202 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 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 as described below.

[0263] As depicted in the figures, the body portion sidewall 210 comprises an inner sidewall 210a and an outer sidewall 210b, each having an inner surface and an outer surface, and defining a channel 228 therebetween. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outer sidewall 210b is coupled to the outer surface of the inner sidewall 210 via, for example, a horizontal extension 270 that may extend continuouslyAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0264] about the perimeter of the body portion or comprise a plurality of discrete extensions spaced about the perimeter of the body portion 202. In some embodiments, the horizontal extension 270 defines the ledge 238 upon which the retention mechanism is disposed. Alternatively, or additionally, the inner sidewall 210a and the outer sidewall may be coupled to one another by a series of vertical extensions 260 (see, e.g., FIG. 13 A).

[0265] The body portion 202 further comprises a button assembly 224, sometimes also referred to as a flex feature, which is a resilient portion of the outer sidewall 210b that can be flexed inwardly to assist in separating the cover 204 and body portion 202, but provides sufficient resistance to the cover 204 and body portion 202 being separated by a child, along with the engagement of the retention mechanisms. In some embodiments, the button assembly 224 is configured to flex upon application of a force to the outer surface thereof, thereby unlocking the cover 204 from the body portion 202 as described in greater detail below. The button assembly 224 will return to its unflexed configuration when the force thereon is removed. In some embodiments, the button assembly 224 comprises two buttons 224a, 224b disposed in direct opposition (e.g., on opposite sides of, or spaced 180 degrees apart depending on shape of container). As can be seen, the two buttons 224a, 224b 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 224a, 224b are disposed about the body portion 202 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). See, e.g., FIG. 12.

[0266] As shown, the button or button assembly 224 is defined by a vertical gap 262 in the sidewall 210b at a first end and a pivot point 248 at a second end thereof configured to allow that portion of the sidewall 210b to flex at the pivot point 248 and relative to the rest of the sidewall. In some embodiments, the pivot point 248 may comprise a vertical groove in the outer surface of the outer sidewall 210b (e.g., a scored line or other weakening in the sidewall) that allows the button portion of the sidewall 210b to flex inwardly upon application of a horizontal force (Fi) thereto and return the button assembly to its unflexed orientation after the force is removed (e.g., the pivot point acts as a living hinge). In some embodiments, the first end of the button portion of the button assembly includes an inward radial projection 264 that extends towards the inner sidewall 210a and has a length Xi less than a width (or depth) X2of the channel 228 (see FIG. 13 A). Generally, the projection 264 limits the range of motion of the button as described in greater detail below. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the buttons 224a, 224b includes one or more radial buttresses 266 disposed thereon to, e.g., provide stiffening to the button 224a, 224b and / or prevent over-compression of the button / button assembly 224.

[0267] The body portion 202 further includes a first retention mechanism 234a disposed on the body portion sidewall 210. In the embodiment shown, the first retention mechanism 234a is disposed on a top surface (ledge 238) of the button assembly 224 (outer sidewall) and extends upwardly therefrom. Generally, the first retention mechanism 234a includes a tang 235 that extends proximate to and partially along a perimeter of the outer sidewall / button assembly. One end of the tang 235 is also coupled to the outer surface of the inner sidewall 210a, while the opposite end defines an abutment surface 239 at a distal end thereof that is configured toAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0268] engage a mating retention mechanism on the cover, as described below. The button assembly 224 is configured to move the first retention mechanism 234a inwardly upon application of a force to an outer surface thereof.

[0269] In some embodiments, the sidewall 210 includes a second retention mechanism 236a disposed about a perimeter (or circumference depending on the shape of the body portion) of the sidewall. The second retention mechanism 236a may be disposed on the exterior of the upper region of the sidewall, vertically above the ledge 238 (and the button assembly 224). Generally, the second retention mechanism 236a comprises a discontinuous or intermittent thread (e.g., a series of vertically inclined ramps) extending at least partially about a perimeter of the outer surface of the inner sidewall 210a. For example, the second retention mechanism 236a may comprise three evenly spaced thread portions or ramps. However, in some embodiments, the second retention mechanism 236a is a continuous thread that extends about the entire perimeter of the body portion 202. The thread pitch and / or angle may vary to suit a particular application, for example, size of the container, necessary travel distance for the cover to disengage any retention mechanism. The second retention mechanism 236a is configured to engage a mating second retention mechanism in the cover 204 as described below.

[0270] In some embodiments, the body portion 202 includes a third retention mechanism 244a disposed about a perimeter (or circumference depending on the shape of the body portion) of the sidewall. In the embodiment depicted, the top edge 212 defining the opening is the top edge of the inner sidewall 210a. In some embodiments, the third retention mechanism 244a is formed in the top edge 212 and may include a tapered edge configured to be received in a mating receptacle or groove (e.g., frictionally engaged) in the cover 204. A plurality of horizontal ribs or nubs, and / or a high friction coating on the top edge 212 may assist in maintaining the third retention mechanism 244a in an engaged configuration. The specific configuration and number of mechanisms 244a may vary to suit a particular application (e.g., the size, shape, and structure of the container).

[0271] The material of construction of the body portion 202 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 202 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.

[0272] The cover 204 includes a top wall 216 and a sidewall 218 that extends downwardly, and about, a peripheral edge 220 of the top wall 216, the cover sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface. In some implementations, the top wall 216 spans the entire area bounded by its peripheral edge 220, while in other configurations, the top wall 216 does not span the entire area and forms a frame for accepting an outer lid 217 secured thereto, in which case the cover 216 defines an internal space 250 or receptacle accessible via removal of the lid 217. See FIGS. 2A-2C and 3A. In some embodiments, the lid 217 is removably coupled toAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0273] the cover 204 or is coupled to the cover via a weak linkage insofar as the lid 217 would separate from the cover at a force less than that required to remove the cover 204 from the body portion 202. The internal space 250 may be used to hold or store waste or spent materials. In some implementations, the cover 204 includes a recess 222 or similar structure that may, for example, assist a user in handling the container 200 and / or manipulating the cover 204. For example, the recess 222 may allow a user to pry open the outer lid 217 (e.g., by using a tool or fingernail) to access the internal space 250 between the top wall 216 and outer lid 217.

[0274] As shown in FIGS. 10, 10A, and 11, the inner surface of the cover sidewall 218 includes a first mating retention mechanism 234b disposed thereon and extending at least partially about a perimeter of the cover. Generally, portions of the inner surface of the cover sidewall project outwardly (i.e., inward towards internal space), thereby defining a series of recesses in the inner surface of the cover sidewall, each defining a radial catch 234b configured to removably engage the abutment surface 239 of 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 four radial catches spaced equidistant about a perimeter of the inner surface of the cover sidewall 218. In some embodiments, the container includes two first retention mechanisms 234a oriented 180 degrees apart and four first mating retention mechanisms 234b oriented 90 degrees apart so that the cover may be secured to the body portion at any of four orientations (1 / 4 turns).

[0275] In some embodiments, the cover 202 includes a second mating retention mechanism 236b disposed on and extending at least partially about the perimeter of the inner surface of the cover sidewall 218. In some embodiments, the second mating retention mechanism 236b comprises a continuous thread having a mating thread pitch with the second retention mechanism 236a and extending about the entire perimeter of the cover. Generally, the threads of the retention mechanisms 236a, 236b correspond insofar as they have the same thread pitch, major diameter, minor diameter, thread density, thread angle, etc. as necessary to be securely engaged. The cover 204 is configured to engage the body portion 202 via a rotational force (F2) (i.e., threaded engagement). Specifically, the second retention mechanism 236a and the second mating retention mechanism 236b are engaged via a clockwise rotation of the cover relative to the body portion and disengaged via a counter-clockwise rotation of the cover relative to the body portion while depressing the button assembly. When the cover is rotated in the clockwise direction, the abutment surface 239 of the first retention mechanism 234a is configured rotate past (over) the first mating retention mechanism 234b. In some embodiments, the first retention mechanism 234a flexes out of the way at the pivot point 248. However, the abutment surface 239 of the first retention mechanism 234a is configured engage the radial catch of the first mating retention mechanism 234b when the cover is first rotated in the counter-clockwise direction preventing further counterclockwise rotation (and thereby removal) of the cover relative to the body portion.

[0276] In some embodiments, the cover 202 also includes a third mating retention mechanism 244b disposed in the cover 204. Specifically, the third mating retention mechanism 244b is defined by a receptacle in the bottom surface of the cover top wall 216 and extends about a perimeter thereof. The receptacle is coextensive with the top edge 212 of the body portion sidewall and configured to frictionally engage the third retention mechanism 244a when the cover is engaged with the body portion.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0277] As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the shape of the top wall 216 includes a generally planar, central portion 216a and a non-planar border portion 216b surrounding the central portion 216a. In some embodiments, the border portion 216b includes a series of bends that define the receptacle of the third mating retention mechanism 244b. In some embodiments, the receptacle is tapered and configured to frictional engage the third retention mechanism 244a on the body portion 202. Additionally, the third retention and third mating retention mechanisms 244a, 244b may include protuberances / ribs and / or a high friction coating to enhance the coupling therebetween. The third mating retention mechanism 244b may be disposed along the entire perimeter of the top wall 216 to engage the third retention mechanism 244a at any rotational orientation of the cover 204. Alternatively, the mating retention mechanism 244b may be disposed along only portions of the perimeter of the top wall 216a. The top wall border portion 216b may include a second bend at the peripheral edge 220 thereof where the top wall transitions to the sidewall 218, which ends at a bottom or lower edge 242 thereof. The bottom edge 242 is configured to abut the body portion ledge 238 in a closed configuration. In some embodiments, the cover includes indicia 225 about the outer surface of the cover sidewall 218 to assist with the proper positioning and / or operation of the cover 204 relative to the body portion 202.

[0278] Generally, the third retention mechanism 244a and the third mating retention mechanism 244b are engaged via the clockwise rotation of the cover relative to the body portion, which provides the downward movement of the cover relative to the body portion (vertical displacement) causing the third mating retention mechanism 244b to frictionally engage with the third retention mechanism 244a. The third retention mechanisms 244a, 244b are disengaged via a counter-clockwise rotation of the cover relative to the body portion, which provides the upward movement of the cover relative to the body portion while depressing the button assemblies 224. The rotational force F2to unscrew the cover from the body portion (vertical displacement) includes the force required to overcome the frictional engagement of the third retention mechanisms 244a, 244b to separate the cover 204 from the body portion 202. As such, a user needs to apply the first force Fi to the button assemblies 224 to unlock the cover and the second force F2to remove the cover.

[0279] In some embodiments, the cover 204 may be made of the same materials and by the same processes as the body portion 202. In some embodiments, the cover 204 may be formed from a metallic material, such as, for example, aluminum or tinplate. In implementations incorporating the outer lid 217, it may be manufactured separately from and of a different material than the remainder of the cover 204 to, for example, provide labeling or other indicia or to serve an aesthetic purpose.

[0280] Referring to FIGS. 13A-13D and 14, the engagement and disengagement between the body portion 202 and cover 204 are clearly depicted. As shown and previously described, the body portion 202 includes a bottom wall 208 and a sidewall 210 extending upwardly therefrom and defining a button assembly 224, and the cover 204 includes a top wall 216 and a sidewall 218 extending downwardly therefrom. An upper region of the inner sidewall 210b is configured to engage with at least a portion of the cover top wall 216 (116b). As shown, the bottom edge 242 of the cover sidewall 218 may abut against a top edge of the ledge 238 in the body portion outer sidewall 210b and, in some embodiments, the outer surface of the cover 204 sits flush with or slightly inward or outward of the outer surface of the lower region of the outer sidewall 210b to make it difficult to engage with and remove the cover 204 from the body portion 202.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0281] FIG. 13 A depicts the cover 204 engaged with the body portion 202 and in a neutral configuration (i.e., the buttons 224 are not engaged) with the first retention mechanism 234a and the first mating retention mechanism 234b disposed proximate one another, but not engaged. FIG. 13B also depicts the cover 204 engaged with the body portion 202 in the neutral configuration, but with the cover slightly rotated counterclockwise as if to remove the cover. As shown, the first retention mechanism 234a and the first mating retention mechanism 234b are engaged (the abutment surface 239 of the tang 235 is butted up against the radial catch of the mating retention mechanism 234b) preventing further rotation of the cover 204 in the counter-clockwise direction and the removal of the cover from the body portion 202.

[0282] FIG. 13C depicts the initial actuation of the button / button assembly (i.e., application of the first / horizontal force Fi). Typically, actuation is performed by the user squeezing the opposing button assemblies 224 with their thumb and middle finger, which causes the portions of the body portion sidewall 210 corresponding to the button assemblies to flex inwardly about the pivot point (aka hinge) 248. As can be seen, as the button moves inwardly, the first retention mechanism 234a also moves inwardly and begins to clear the radial catch of the first mating retention mechanism 234b. At the same time, the radial projection 264 that extends towards the inner sidewall 210a moves towards the inner sidewall 210a. As noted above, the radial projection 264 extends Xi, which is less than a width or depth X2of the channel 228. The difference between Xi and X2is at least the distance required for the abutment surfaces 239 to clear the radial catches.

[0283] FIGS. 13D and 14 depict the button assemblies 224 fully actuated (i.e., the button portion of the outer sidewall 210b is flexed inwardly until the radial projection 264 contacts the inner sidewall 210a) to disengage the first retention mechanism 234a from the first mating retention mechanism 234b. In some embodiments, the force required to fully actuate the button assemblies 224 is about 10 to about 40 newtons (N), or about 12 to about 30 N, or about 15 to about 20 N. Specifically, the abutment surface 239 of the first retention mechanism 234a has moved inwardly the necessary distance to clear the radial catch of the first mating retention mechanism 234b, thereby allowing the cover 204 to rotate relative to the body portion 202. Once the user begins rotating the cover (F2), the radial catches of the first mating retention mechanism 234b move past the abutment surfaces 239 of the first retention mechanism 234a and the cover is essentially free to continue rotating without continuing to depress the button assemblies 224 (i.e., the cover is unlocked).

[0284] However, after the cover 204 is unlocked by the application of the first / horizontal force Fi applied to the cover via the button assemblies, it is still necessary to apply a second / vertical force F3to disengage the third retention mechanisms 244a, 244b. Specifically, the second / vertical force is applied to the cover 204 via the rotation force F2applied to the cover 204 relative to the body portion 202 (i.e., a force vector is transferred from the threaded engagement of the second retention mechanisms 236a, 236b). When the user rotates the cover 204 counter-clockwise, the second mating retention mechanism 236b rides along the second retention mechanism 236a via the threaded engagement therebetween to provide the upward force to the cover as it is rotated counter-clockwise. Rotation of the cover requires sufficient force F2to not just rotate the cover, but to overcome the engagement of the third retention mechanism 244a with the third mating retention mechanism 244b, thereby releasing the cover 204 from the body portion 202 (i.e., the threads provide a force multiplier to overcome the hold of the retention mechanisms 244a, 244b). The force F3required to disengage the thirdAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0285] retention mechanisms 244a, 244b may be tuned (e.g., via the strength of the snap and / or interference fit) to require sufficient force F2be applied to the cover 204, in addition to the force Fi applied to the button assemblies, to make it difficult for a child to separate the cover from the body portion.

[0286] In some embodiments, partially raising the cover may also provide access to the bottom edge 242 of the cover sidewall 218, so that a user can apply an additional force to the cover 204 (e.g., via the use of a tool or fingernail) sufficient to overcome any remaining resistance to separating the cover 204 from the body portion 202.

[0287] Once the cover 204 has been unlocked from the body portion 202, the user can release (i.e., remove the applied forces) the button assemblies 224 and the body portion 202 returns to its neutral / normal or unflexed configuration. The cover 204 can be reattached to the body portion 202 by pushing / rotating the cover back onto the body portion with sufficient force to reengage the retention mechanisms 234a, 234b, 236a, 236b, 244a, 244b, 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.

[0288] FIGS. 15, 16A-16D, 17, 18A, and 18B depict a first example implementation of a child resistant container 300 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Generally, the container 300 includes a base or body portion 302 that may be configured to hold a consumer product and a lid and / or cover 304 configured to be securely, but removably, coupled to the body portion 302, each of which is described in greater detail below. As shown in FIG. 15, the cover 304 and body portion 302 may abut one another when engaged and their respective outer surfaces may be flush with one another, making it difficult to separate the two parts. In some implementations, the cover 304 is secured to the body portion 302 via a snap or interference fit, which provides additional resistance to separating the two parts. The engagement of the cover 304 and body portion 302 are shown in greater detail and described with respect to FIGS. 18A, 18B, 20A, and 20B below.

[0289] As shown in FIGS. 15-17, the body portion 302 includes a bottom wall 308 and a sidewall 310 extending upwardly from, and about, a peripheral edge 306 of the bottom wall 308. The sidewall 310 has a top edge or upper rim 312 that in turn defines an opening through which the contents of the container 300 may be accessed. The bottom wall 308 and sidewall 310 define an internal space 340 that may be accessible via the opening when the cover 304 is removed therefrom. The internal space 340 of the body portion 302 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.

[0290] The sidewall 310 extends around the entire perimeter of the body portion 302 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 338. 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 304 to the body portion 302. While the sidewall 310 introduced herein is initially described as having a single, contiguous circular wall, the sidewall 310 may comprise multiple wall portions or linearAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0291] segments as would be necessary, for example, if the container 300 had a non-cylindrical shape (e.g., rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.) and may include inner and outer sidewalls as described below.

[0292] Generally, the sidewall 310 of the body portion 302 includes a retention mechanism 334a disposed about a perimeter (or circumference depending on the shape of the body portion) of the inner surface of the upper region of the sidewall proximate a top edge thereof (e.g., top edge 312 defining the opening). The retention mechanism 334a may have a convex or V-shape that extends along the entire perimeter / circumference of the body portion 302 or may comprise a series of retention mechanisms spaced about the body portion sidewall. For example, the retention mechanism 334a may be a continuous V or U-shaped projection running 360 degrees about the body portion or may include a plurality of separate projections 334a spaced equidistant about the top edge 312 of the body portion 302 or located at only certain locations along the body portion. The retention mechanism 334a is configured to engage a mating retention mechanism in the cover 304 as described below. The specific configuration and number of retention mechanisms 334a may vary to suit a particular application (e.g., the size, shape, and structure of the container). In some embodiments, the retention mechanism(s) 334a 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 334a 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 334b in the cover 304. Additionally, the retention mechanisms may also be sized and shaped to accommodate a separate seal or gasket.

[0293] In some embodiments, the sidewall 310 includes a removal mechanism 336a disposed about a perimeter (or circumference depending on the shape of the body portion) of the sidewall. The removal mechanism 336a may be disposed on the exterior of the upper region of the sidewall, vertically above the ledge 338. Generally, the removal mechanism 336a defines a vertically inclined ramp extending at least partially about a perimeter of the outer surface of the sidewall 310. The ramp is configured to engage a mating removal mechanism in the cover 304 as described below. In some embodiments, the ramp of the removal mechanism 336a extends about the entire perimeter of the outer surface of the sidewall and comprises a sawtooth wave pattern. The removal mechanism 336a may include a plurality of inclined ramps, for example, four equally spaced about the body portion 302. The inclined ramp(s) typically include a first or starting point and a second or end point, with the starting point having a lower vertical orientation on the outer surface of the sidewall. The inclined ramp(s) 336a provide an upward force to the cover 304 to move the cover vertically with respect to the body portion 302 and disengage the retention mechanism as described below. Further, the inclined ramp(s) may be oriented at various angles over a portion of or the entire circumference of the container to suit a particular application. In some embodiments, the angle is about 6 degrees for a ! turn to unlock the cover (about a 3 mm vertical lift), or about 1.5 degrees for a full rotation to obtain substantially the same amount of vertical lift. In some embodiments, the angle may be about 20 degrees to require only a short rotation of the cover (about a 1 / 16 turn) for a vertical lift of about 3mm up to 5 mm and may vary depending on, for example, the size of the container or desired force for removal.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0294] As depicted in FIGS. 17, 18A, and 18B, the body portion sidewall 310 comprises an inner sidewall 310a and an outer sidewall 310b, each having an inner surface and an outer surface, and defining a channel 328 therebetween (see also FIG. 19A). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outer sidewall 310b is coupled to the outer surface of the inner sidewall 310 via, for example, a lateral extension 370 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 302. In some embodiments, the lateral extension 370 defines the ledge 338 upon which the removal mechanism is disposed.

[0295] In the embodiment depicted, the top edge 312 defining the opening is the top edge of the inner sidewall 310a. As shown in the figures, the retention mechanism 334a is disposed about a perimeter of the inner surface of the inner sidewall 310a. In some embodiments, the outer sidewall 310b extends outwardly of the inner sidewall 310a via the ledge 338 / lateral extension 370 and is sized and shaped to sit flush with and abut a bottom edge of an outer surface of the cover sidewall when engaged with the body portion 302, thereby making the container harder to open (e.g., eliminating the use of a fingernail or tool to separate the cover 304 and body portion).

[0296] The material of construction of the body portion 302 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 302 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.

[0297] The cover 304 includes a top wall 316 and a sidewall 318 that extends downwardly, and about, a peripheral edge 320 of the top wall 316, the cover sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface. In some implementations, the top wall 316 spans the entire area bounded by its peripheral edge 320, while in other configurations, the top wall 316 does not span the entire area and forms a frame for accepting an outer lid 317 secured thereto, in which case the cover 316 defines an internal space 350 or receptacle accessible via removal of the lid 317. See FIGS. 16A-16D and 17. In some embodiments, the lid 317 is removably coupled to the cover 304 or is coupled to the cover via a weak linkage insofar as the lid 317 would separate from the cover at a force less than that required to remove the cover from the body portion. The internal space 350 may be used to hold or store waste or spent materials. In some implementations, the cover 304 includes a recess 322 or similar structure that may, for example, assist a user in handling the container 300 and / or manipulating the cover 304. For example, the recess 322 may allow a user to pry open the outer lid 317 (e.g., by using a tool or fingernail) to access the internal space 350 between the top wall 316 and outer lid 317.

[0298] As shown in FIGS. 17, 18A, and 18B, the shape of the top wall 316 includes a generally planar central portion 316a and a non-planar border portion 316b surrounding the central portion 316a. In some embodiments, the border portion 316b includes a series of bends that define portions of the retentionAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0299] mechanisms. A first bend in the border portion 316b (relative to a center point of the cover top wall 316) defines a mating retention mechanism 334b comprising a load bearing recess / ramp configured to engage the retention mechanism 334a on the body portion 304 (see FIG. 20A). In some embodiments, the recess is concave and comprises a shape configured to mate with (i.e., securely receive) the retention mechanism 334a. A transitional zone next to the mating retention mechanism 334b may include a thinned wall section that provides for a sliding movement between the retention mechanisms 334a, 334b allowing the mechanisms 334a, 334b to engage and disengage upon application of a sufficient force. Additionally, the retention and mating retention mechanisms 334a, 334b may include protub erance s / ribs and / or a high friction coating to enhance the coupling therebetween. The mating retention mechanism 334b may be disposed along the entire perimeter of the top wall 316a to engage the retention mechanism 334a at any rotational orientation of the cover 304. Alternatively, the mating retention mechanism 334b may be disposed along only portions of the perimeter of the top wall 316a. The top wall border portion 316b may include a second bend at the peripheral edge 320 thereof where the top wall transitions to the sidewall 318, which ends at a bottom or lower edge 342 thereof. The bottom edge 342 is configured to abut the body portion ledge 338 in a closed configuration.

[0300] The cover 304 further comprises a button assembly 324 disposed in the sidewall 318 thereof. In some embodiments, the button assembly 324 is configured to flex upon application of a force to the outer surface thereof, thereby disengaging the cover 304 from the body portion as described in greater detail below. As depicted in FIGS. 16C, 16D, 17, and 18B, and in some embodiments, the button assembly 324 comprises two buttons 324a, 324b disposed in direct opposition (e.g., on opposite sides of, or spaced 180 degrees apart depending on shape of container) (see FIG. 21). As can be seen, the two buttons 324a, 324b 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 324a, 324b are disposed about the body portion 302 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).

[0301] The button assembly 324, sometimes also referred to as a flex feature, is a resilient portion of the cover sidewall 318 that can be flexed inwardly to assist in separating the cover 304 and body portion 302, but provides sufficient resistance to the cover 304 and body portion 302 being separated by a child, along with the engagement of the retention mechanisms. The button assembly 324 will return to its unflexed configuration when the force thereon is removed. As depicted, each button 324a, 324b includes a mating portion of the removal mechanism in the form of a wedge 336b disposed on the inner surface of the sidewall 318 (see FIG.

[0302] 19B). In some embodiments, the cover sidewall 318 may include grooves or similar structures to assist with flexing the button assembly 324. In a closed configuration with the buttons 324a, 324b unflexed, the distal or inner surfaces of the wedges 336b define a gap with the body portion sidewall 310a, specifically the removal mechanism 336a, while when the buttons 324a, 324b are flexed inwardly, the wedges 336b engage the removal mechanisms 336a as described below.

[0303] In some embodiments, the cover 304 may be made of the same materials and by the same processes as the body portion 302. In some embodiments, the cover 304 may be formed from a metallic material, such as, for example, aluminum or tinplate. In implementations incorporating the outer lid 317, it may beAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0304] manufactured separately from and of a different material than the remainder of the cover 304 to, for example, provide labeling or other indicia or to serve an aesthetic purpose.

[0305] Referring to FIGS. 20A, 20B, 21, 22A, and 22B, the engagement between the body portion 302 and cover 304 are clearly depicted. As shown and previously described, the body portion 302 includes a bottom wall 308 and a sidewall 310 extending upwardly therefrom, and the cover 304 includes a top wall 316 and a sidewall 318 extending downwardly therefrom and defining a button assembly 324. An upper region of the inner sidewall 310b is configured to engage with at least a portion of the cover top wall 316 (316b). As shown, the bottom edge 342 of the cover sidewall 318 may abut against a top edge of the ledge 338 in the body portion outer sidewall 310b and, in some embodiments, the outer surface of the cover 304 sits flush with or slightly inward or outward of the outer surface of the lower region of the outer sidewall 310b to make it difficult to engage with and remove the cover 304 from the body portion 302. See FIG. 20 A.

[0306] FIGS. 20A and 20B are enlarged cross-sectional views that illustrate the engagement of the cover 304 with the body portion 302 and how the button assemblies 324 (or “flex feature”) assist with removing the cover 304, as described in greater detail below. Generally, the cross-sections are taken vertically through the center of one of the button assemblies 324. As shown, the cover 304 and body portion 302 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. 15 and 16B). When the buttons 324a, 324b are flexed inwardly (i.e., the application of a first force Fl to the buttons 324a, 324b in a horizontal or inward direction to squeeze the buttons together) as shown in FIG. 21, and rotated, a force F2 is transferred to the cover 304 to disengage the retention mechanism 334a from the mating retention mechanism 334b, thereby releasing the cover 304 from the body portion 302. Typically, F2 is sufficient to overcome the holding force of the retention mechanisms (e.g., strength of the snap and / or interference fit) to separate the cover 304 from the body portion 302.

[0307] Specifically, to remove the cover 304, a user applies a force to the buttons 324a, 324b (i.e., depresses the cover sidewall 318). Upon application of the force Fl to the buttons 324a, 324b, while the cover 304 is in the proper rotational orientation, the wedges 336b are moved inwardly towards the cover sidewall 310a so that a bottom surface of each wedge 336b will engage a top surface of one of the inclined ramps 336a. The cover 304 has a required rotational orientation relative to the body portion 302 to be able to remove the cover insofar as the wedges 336b can only engage the top surfaces of the inclined ramps 336a proximate the first or starting points of the inclined ramps. If not properly aligned, the wedges 336b will be pressed against the outer side walls of the ramps 336a and will fail to engage the top surfaces thereof. Additionally, FIG. 8A depicts one of the wedges 336b relative to the starting point of one of the ramps 336a such that the wedge 336b will engage the top surface of the ramp 336a when the buttons 324a, 324b are depressed.

[0308] After the wedges 336b are properly engaged with the ramps 336a, and while continuing to depress the buttons, the user twists the cover 304 such that the wedges 336b ride along the ramps 336a as the cover 304 is rotated relative to the body portion 302, thereby moving the cover upward relative to the body portion (see FIG. 22B). The ramps 336a provide an upward force to the cover via the interaction with the wedges 336b that is sufficient to disengage the retention mechanisms 334a, 334b (see FIG. 20B). Specifically, the rotationalAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0309] force F2 is translated to a vertical force vector F2Vapplied to the cover via rotation of the cover, where the inclined ramps 336b provide a force multiplier to overcome the hold of the retention mechanisms 334a, 334b. In some embodiments, for example, where the container 300 has a 70 mm diameter and removal of the cover 304 requires 3 mm of vertical lift over a ! turn, the ramp may be about 1.44 mm deep. As can be seen in FIGS. 22A and 22B, the cover can only be rotated in one direction (i.e., clockwise or counter-clockwise) to effectuate removal of the cover 304. If the cover is rotated in the opposite direction while depressing the buttons 324a, 324b, the cover will not move as the wedges 336b will butt up against the end points (e.g., vertical walls) of the ramps 336a. In some embodiments, partially raising the cover may also provide access to the bottom edge 342 of the cover sidewall 318, so that a user can apply an additional force to the cover 304 (e.g., via the use of a tool or fingernail) sufficient to overcome any remaining resistance to separating the cover 304 from the body portion 302.

[0310] Once the cover 304 has been released from the body portion, the user can release (i.e., remove the applied force) the button assemblies 324 and the body portion 302 returns to its neutral / normal or unflexed configuration. The cover 304 can be reattached to the body portion 302 by pushing the cover back onto the body portion with sufficient force to reengage the retention mechanisms 334a, 334b, 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.

[0311] FIGS. 23-43 depict various alternative cover embodiments for use with any of the bodies 102, 202, 302 described above, regardless of whichever body portion may be depicted in a particular figure. Generally, the alternative covers define a secondary or “waste” compartment that includes a child resistant lid as described below with respect to the various embodiments. Additionally, the materials and manufacturing processes described above are also suitable for the alternative cover embodiments.

[0312] FIGS. 23A-23C are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 400 including a body portion 402 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 404 including a child resistant lid 417. As shown in the figures, the cover 404 includes a top wall 416 and a sidewall 418 that extends downwardly, and about, a peripheral edge of the top wall 416, the cover sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface. In some implementations, the top wall 416 spans the entire area bounded by its peripheral edge, while in other configurations, the top wall 416 does not span the entire area and forms a frame for accepting the lid 417 secured thereto, in which case the cover 416 defines an internal space 450 or receptacle accessible via removal of the lid 417. The internal space 450 (i.e., secondary compartment) may be used to hold or store waste or spent materials. Generally, the cover 450 (and other covers disclosed below) may be similar or identical to any of the covers described hereinabove.

[0313] To remove the lid 417 from cover 404, a user presses down on two pins or recesses 468 on or in the lid 417 to disengage a locking mechanism 470 (FIG. 23D) on the lid 417 from a retention mechanism 472 on the cover 404. Once the mechanism 470, 472 are disengaged, the user twists the lid 417 until it clears the retention mechanism 472 and “pops” up as shown in FIG. 23 C, thereby exposing the secondary or waste compartment 450. In some embodiments, the cover 404 and / or lid 417 may include a leaf spring type mechanism, or other resilient element to provide an upwards force to the lid 417 once it is “unlocked” (i.e.,Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0314] pressed downwardly and rotated). The optional resilient member may include a compressible seal to prevent the waste compartment from leaking. In some embodiments, the locking system (the locking mechanism 470 and / or retention mechanism 472) may be configured to be a “smart” locking system where the rotation of the lid 417 (e.g., 90 degrees counter-clockwise as shown in FIG. 23 A) allows the lid 417 to lift slightly, then the lid 417 is rotated in the opposite direction (e.g., 90 degrees clockwise as shown in FIG. 23B) to fully release the lid 417 as shown in FIG. 23C. In some embodiments, the locking system may include alternating righthand and left-hand threads.

[0315] FIG. 23D is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the child-resistant container of FIG. 23A depicting the locking mechanism 470 in greater detail. As shown, when the press point(s) 468 is pressed, the locking mechanism (e.g., a pin) 470 moves out of the retention mechanism 472 allowing the lid to rotate so as to clear the retention mechanism 472. In some embodiments, when the lid 417 is replaced and then rotated, the locking mechanism 470 may slide over a ramp 471 or similar stmcture and then is biased back into the locked position within the retention mechanism 472.

[0316] FIG. 24A is schematic top perspective view of a child-resistant cover portion 504 for use with any of the container body portions described herein. FIGS. 24B and 24C are schematic side views of the childresistant cover portion 504 depicting operation of the locking secondary compartment 550 with FIG. 24B depicting the cover 504 in a closed configuration and FIG. 23 C depicting the cover 504 in an open configuration. FIGS. 24D and 24E are schematic end views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 24Afurther depicting a portion of the locking system for maintaining the lid 517 in the closed configuration.

[0317] As shown in FIGS. 24D and 24E, the lid 517 includes an interlocking clasp mechanism 575 extending downwardly therefrom and configured to engage with the wall of the cover 504, a slot 756 in the cover sidewall, and / or other mating structure within the secondary compartment 550 to maintain the lid in a locked orientation. To unlock the lid 517 from the cover 504, the user actuates the clasp type mechanism 575 manually (e.g., pulling the two pieces of the clasp together) to disengage the lid from the cover. The lid 517 is then movable through the slot 576 of the cover 504 to transition between the closed configuration (FIG. 24B) and the open configuration (FIG. 24C). In some embodiments, the clasp mechanism 575 can be used to pull the lid out of through the slot 576. The slot 576 is sized and shaped to at least one of sealingly engage the lid 517 and / or provide frictional engagement therewith to add to the child-resistance of the secondary compartment. Additionally, the lid 517 includes a stop mechanism 574 that prevents the lid 517 from completely separating from the cover 504.

[0318] As shown in FIGS. 24B and 24C, in some embodiments, to unlock the lid 517, a user presses down on one side of the cover 504 to release the clasp mechanism, thereby allowing the user to slide the lid 517 smoothly through the slot 576 exposing the secondary compartment 550. The lid 517 is free to slide though the slot 576 until the stop 574 engages with a wall 518 of the cover 504. To reclose the secondary compartment, the user pushes the lid 517 back into the closed configuration (e.g., via the projection that forms the stop 574 until the clasp mechanism reengages. The action to release the clasp may vary to suit different types of clasps and their orientations in the container.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0319] FIGS. 25A-25C are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 600 including a body portion 602 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 604 including a child resistant lid 617. As shown in the figures, the lid 617 includes a first alignment mechanism 680a, for example, a pin or other geometrically shaped projection, while the cover 604 includes a mating alignment mechanism 680b configured to receive the first alignment mechanism 680a. When the alignment mechanisms 680a, 680b are not aligned (FIG. 25 A), the lid 617 cannot be removed without a certain level of effort. As shown in FIG. 25B, the lid 617 is rotated relative to the cover 504 until the alignment mechanisms 680a, 680b engage or are otherwise are aligned unlocking the secondary compartment 650. As further depicted in FIG. 25B, the cover includes two press points 668 disposed in opposition to one another. When the user squeezes the cover 604 (i.e., pushes the press points 668 simultaneously) the inner lid 617 will “pop” off.

[0320] More specifically, when the press points or “buttons” 668 are flexed inwardly (i.e., the application of a first force Fl to the buttons 668 in a horizontal or inward direction to squeeze the buttons together), as shown in FIG. 25B, any additional retention mechanism (e.g., snap fit) will disengage. Typically, Fl is sufficient to overcome the holding force of any retention mechanisms (e.g., strength of the snap and / or interference fit) to at least partially separate the lid 617 from the cover portion 604. However, in some embodiments, an additional application of force (vertical force F2) to the lid 617 may be required to completely disengage the lid 617 from the cover 604. In some embodiments, the second force F2 is provided via manual application of a vertical force to the lid 617.

[0321] FIGS. 26A and 26B are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 700 in a closed configuration (FIG. 26A) and an open configuration (FIG. 26B), with the container 700 including a body portion 702 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 704 including a child resistant lid 717. FIG. 26C is an alternative embodiment of the container 700’ including a second cover portion 704’ on the opposite end of the body portion 702’. Similar to the previously described embodiments, the cover 704 includes two opposing press points or buttons 768 (768’ in FIG. 26C) that are pressed to unlock the lid 717 from the cover 704. The cover may include a spring mechanism 769 that provides an upward force to the lid 717.

[0322] Specifically, to remove the lid 717 from cover 704, a user presses in on the two buttons 768 simultaneously to engage an internal thread on the cover 704. Once the threads have been engaged, the user twists the lid 717 (e.g., via recesses 722 in the top of the lid 717) until the lid “pops” up as shown in FIG. 26B, thereby exposing the secondary or waste compartment 750. In some embodiments, the cover 704 and / or lid 717 may include a leaf spring type mechanism 769, or other resilient element to provide an upwards force to the lid 717 once it is “unlocked.” The optional resilient member may include a compressible seal to prevent the waste compartment from leaking.

[0323] FIGS. 27A and 27B are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 800 in a closed configuration (FIG. 27A) and an open configuration (FIG. 27B), with the container 800 including a body portion 802 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 804 including a child resistant lid 817. FIG. 27C is an enlarged side cross-sectional view of a portion of the cover depicting the locking mechanism for the secondary compartment 850.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0324] As depicted in the figures, the lid 817 includes a pin or push clip 884 that extends movably therethrough. The lid 817 and / or push clip 884 may be sealingly engaged to prevent leakage from the secondary compartment. The push clip 884 may also be spring-loaded to remain biased into a locked (upward) position. In use, a user presses down on the push clip 884 (Fl), which allows a distal end or pawl like portion of the clip to engage an internal thread 882 disposed in the wall of the cover 804. In some embodiments, the clip 884 may be movable in a vertical and horizontal direction to fully engage the thread 882 in the unlocking orientation. With the clip 884 is depressed, the user twists the lid 817 (either clockwise or counter-clockwise via a recess 822 in the top of the lid 817), thereby raising the lid 817 for ease of removal.

[0325] FIGS. 28A and 28B are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 900 in a closed configuration (FIG. 28A) and an open configuration (FIG. 28B), with the container 900 including a body portion 902 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 904 including a child resistant lid 917. Similar to previously described embodiments, the cover 904 includes two opposing press points or buttons 968 that are pressed to unlock the lid 917 from the cover 904, allowing the lid 917 to slide relative to the cover 904 to expose a secondary compartment 950 as described in greater detail below.

[0326] FIGS. 28C to 281 are various detailed views of the coverportion 904. As shown, the cover 904 defines the secondary compartment 950, the size and shape thereof may vary to suit a particular application and may correspond to or differ from the shape of the cover itself (e.g., a cylindrical cover and a cubic compartment. Extending from the sidewall 918 of the cover are two press points 968 disposed opposite one another. The locking system 990 is designed to frictionally engage with a mating rail 988 on the lid 917 as described in greater detail below. The locking system 990 includes a channel 993 extending through the wall 918 of the cover 904. As shown, the channel 993 is essentially oriented as a chord where both ends of the channel terminate at the outside surface of the cylindrical wall of the cover 904. The channel 993 leaves an outer portion of the wall 918 that can flex outwardly when the adjacent press point 968 is pressed. The top surface of the wall portion may include a rail or hook 991 that is designed to at least partially surround the rail 988 of the lid and frictionally engage therewith to prevent the lid from sliding when the press points 968 are not engaged.

[0327] FIGS. 28J to 28M are various detailed views of the lid portion 917 of the child-resistant container 900 of FIG. 28A. As shown, the lid 917 has a generally circular shape, although other shapes are contemplated and considered within the scope of the invention. The lid 917 includes two parallel rails 988 extending from a bottom surface 917b of the lid. Similar to the channels 993, the rails are essentially oriented as chords where both ends of each rail 988 terminate at the perimeter of the circular lid 917. The rails 988 a sized, shaped, and positioned on the lid 917 so that the perimeter of the lid is essentially flush with the outer surface of the cover sidewall 918 when engaged therewith. The lid 917 and cover 904 will typically have corresponding shapes; however, in some embodiments, it is possible that the shapes are complimentary. As shown in FIG. 28K, the rails 988 include an undercut 989 where they extend downwardly from the lid. The rail 988 and undercut 989 have a complimentary cross-sectional shape to the cross-sectional shape of the channel 993 in the cover 904 so as to securely engage the lid thereto.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0328] Operation of the locking system is described with respect to FIG. 28F. As shown, a user applies a force F 1 to the press point 968 simultaneously by squeezing the cover portion. The press points and sidewall portions are joined in such a way that pressing the press point 968 causes the cover rails 991 to pivot outwardly, which allows the rails 988 of the lid 917 to freely slide within the channels 993 so that the lid can slide in either direction to expose the secondary compartment 950. In some embodiments, the lid 917 and / or cover 904 include a stop mechanism to prevent the lid from being completely separated from the cover. Additionally, in some embodiments, the container 900 has only a single locking system (i.e., one channel and one rail) arranged on one side of the container.

[0329] FIGS. 29A and 29D are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 1000 in a closed configuration (FIG. 29A) and an open configuration (FIG. 29B), with the container 1000 including a body portion 1002 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 1004 including a child resistant lid 1017. FIGS. 29B and 29C are cross-sectional views of the cover 1004 and the lid 1017 of the child-resistant container 1000 taken at line G-G in FIG. 29A and depicting the container in a locked configuration (FIG. 29B) and an unlocked configuration (FIG. 29C).

[0330] The lid 1017 and cover 1004 configuration are similar to those described with respect to FIGS. 28A-28M insofar as the cover 1004 includes rails 1091 extending upwardly from a top surface thereof and the lid 1017 includes a mating pair of rails 1088 extending downwardly from the bottom surface thereof that frictionally engage therewith. The lid is configured to slide relative to the cover between the open and closed configurations when unlocked and may include a stop to prevent the lid from completely disengaging from the cover. In some embodiments, the container 1000 may include a single locking system disposed at one side thereof or extending centrally across the container 1000.

[0331] To unlock the lid 1017, a user pushes down (Fl) on a press point or button 1068 centrally located on top of the lid. The force causes the outer rails 1088 of the lid to pivot outwardly (see FIG. 29C) thereby disengaging from the cover rails 1091. The rails 1088 do not necessarily have to move much as long as the frictional engagement between the rails is broken. Once unlocked, the lid is free to slide open to expose the secondary compartment 1050.

[0332] FIGS. 30Aand 30C are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 1100 in a closed configuration (FIG. 30A) and an open configuration (FIG. 30C), with the container 1100 including a body portion 1102 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 1104 including a child resistant lid 1117. FIG. 30B is a schematic top view of the child-resistant container 1100 depicting a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment 1150, which includes one or more movable locks 1173. Three locks 1173 evenly spaced about the cover 1104 are shown in FIG. 30B ; however, the number and placement of the locks can vary to suit a particular application.

[0333] The locking mechanism relies on centrifugal force to unlock the lid 1117. As shown in FIG. 30B, a user holds the body portion 1102 stationary while spinning the cover portion 1104, which causes the locks to move outwardly into a space behind the outer wall of the cover 1104. Once the locks 1173 have moved outwardly, they disengage from the lid 1117 (e.g., an extension of the lock moves out of a receptacle on a bottom surface of the lid 1117) releasing the lid from the cover. In some embodiments, the locks are biasedAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0334] inwardly from the outer wall of the cover in a neutral position, where they engage the receptacles in the lid preventing it from being rotated and / or removed. The bottom surface of the lid may include a chamfer or similar structure that pushes the locks outwardly when replacing the lid with the locks biased back in the locked position when the lid is fully engaged with the cover and the lid oriented so that the locks and receptacles align. In some embodiments, spinning the cover 1140 forces the locks 1173 outwardly to engage a thread allowing the lid to be rotated off of the cover.

[0335] FIGS. 31 A and 3 ID are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 1200 in a closed configuration (FIG. 31 A) and an open configuration (FIG. 3 ID), with the container 1200 including a body portion 1202 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 1204 including a child resistant lid 1217. FIG. 3 IB is a schematic side view of the cover and lid portions of the child-resistant container 1100 depicting the operation thereof to access the secondary compartment 1250. FIG. 31C is a schematic top view of the cover and lid portions of the child-resistant container 1200 also depicting the operation thereof. The cover portion 1240 includes two opposing press points or buttons 1268 disposed thereon as described above.

[0336] Generally, the operation of the locking mechanism is similar to that of the container 300 described hereinabove with respect to FIGS. 15-22 and relies on a squeeze and twist motion to release the lid 1217 from the cover 1240. In some embodiments, the overall size of the container 1200 adds to the child resistance thereof as the distance between the two press points or buttons 1268 is greater than the size of a child’s hand. In operation, a user presses the two buttons 1268 simultaneously so as to engage a thread on the lid (e.g., a thread disposed on an inner surface of a sidewall of the lid) with a thread on the cover (e.g., a thread disposed on an outer surface of an upper portion of a sidewall of the cover) so that the lid may be rotated and lifted to remove the lid 1217 from the cover 1204. The lid may be further secured to the cover via a frictional engagement between the threads. Alternatively, pressing in on the buttons 1268 (Fl) frictionally disengages any retention mechanism (e.g., threads, interference fit), thereby allowing the lid to freely rotate for removal.

[0337] FIGS. 32A and 32B are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 1300 in a closed configuration (FIG. 32A) and an open configuration (FIG. 32B), with the container 1300 including a body portion 1302 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 1304 including a child resistant lid 1317.

[0338] FIGS. 32C to 32E are various detailed views of the cover portion 1304. As shown, the cover 1304 defines the secondary compartment 1350, the size and shape thereof may vary to suit a particular application and may correspond to or differ from the shape of the cover itself (e.g., a cylindrical cover and a cubic compartment. The cover 1304 includes one portion of the locking system, which includes a series of receptacles 1369 configured to receive a locking projection on the lid. As shown, there are four equally spaced receptacles disposed within an inner surface of the cover sidewall 1318; however, the exact number and placement will vary to suit a particular application.

[0339] FIGS. 32F to 32H are various detailed views of the lid portion 1317 of the child-resistant container 1300. As shown, the lid 1317 has a generally circular shape, although other shapes are contemplated and considered within the scope of the invention. The lid 1317 includes two hook shaped locking projections 1370 extending from a bottom surface of the lid and space 180 degrees apart. Two projections 1370 are depicted; however, the number and placement of the projections may vary to suit a particular application. TheAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0340] projections 1370 are sized and shaped to engage with the receptacles in the cover 1304. The receptacles 1364 are spaced 90 degrees apart, so that the lid 1317 may be in different orientations. Also extending downwardly from the lid 1317 is a leaf spring type mechanism 1369 that is configured to contact the bottom wall 1320 of the secondary compartment 1350 when the lid is secured to the cover. The spring tension of the leaf spring 1369 maintains the lid in its locked orientation.

[0341] To unlock the lid 1317, a user pushes down on the lid (and maintains the pressure thereon) (Fl) and then twists the lid until the locking projections 1370 disengage from the receptacles 1364. The spring force from the leaf spring 1369 lifts the lid 1317 slightly so as to enable its removal from the cover 1304. In some embodiments, pushing down on the lid causes the locking projections to disengage from the receptacles or other threaded retention mechanism 1364.

[0342] FIGS. 33 A and 33C are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 1400 in a closed configuration (FIG. 33A) and an open configuration (FIG. 33C), with the container 1400 including a body portion 1402 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 1404 including a child resistant lid 1417. FIG. 33B is a front schematic view of the container 1400 and depicts that the lid 1417 has a bulge or raised crease 1468 running across the lid that acts as a press point for unlocking the secondary compartment 1450 as described below. The container has a similar structure and operation as the containers 900 and 1000 described above.

[0343] FIGS. 33D to 33H are various detailed views of the cover portion 1404. As shown, the cover 1404 defines the secondary compartment 1450, the size and shape thereof may vary to suit a particular application and may correspond to or differ from the shape of the cover itself (e.g., a cylindrical cover and a cubic compartment. The cover 1404 includes one portion of the locking system, which, like in FIG. 28C-28I, is designed to fictionally engage with a mating rail 1488 on the lid 1417 as described in greater detail below. The locking system portion on the cover includes a channel 1493 extending through an outer surface of the wall 1418 of the cover 1404. As shown, the channel 1493 is essentially oriented as a chord where both ends of the channel terminate at the outside surface of the cylindrical wall of the cover 1404. The channels 1493 are sized and shaped to fictionally receive the rails 1488 of the lid 1417.

[0344] FIGS. 331 to 33L are various detailed views of the lid portion 1417 of the child-resistant container 1400 of FIG. 33 A. As shown, the lid 1417 has a generally circular shape, although our shapes are contemplated and considered within the scope of the invention. The lid 1417 includes two parallel rails 1488 extending from a bottom surface of the lid. Similar to the channels 1493, the rails are essentially oriented as chords where both ends of each rail 1488 terminate at the perimeter of the circular lid 1417. The rails 1488 are sized, shaped, and positioned on the lid 1417 so that the perimeter of the lid is essentially flush with the outer surface of the cover sidewall 1418. The lid 1417 and cover 1404 will typically have corresponding shapes; however, in some embodiments, it is possible that the shapes are complimentary.

[0345] As shown in FIGS. 33 J and 33K, the rails 1488 include an undercut (or hook-shape) 1489 where they extend downwardly from the lid. The rail 1488 and undercut 1489 have a complimentary cross-sectional shape to the cross-sectional shape of the channel 1493 in the cover 1404 to securely engage the lid thereto (see FIG.

[0346] 33B). In some embodiments, the undercut 1489 has a hook like shape that is designed to at least partiallyAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0347] surround the upper edge of the cover 1404 above the channel 1491 and frictionally engage therewith to prevent the lid from sliding when the press point 1468 is not engaged. Because the lid 1417 has a slight upward bulge to define the press point 1468, the lid includes downward panels 1469 to fully enclose the secondary compartment 1450 when engaged with the cover. In some embodiments, the panels 1469 include a break or slot 1471 therein to allow the lid 1417 to flex when pressed.

[0348] Operation of the locking system is described with respect to FIG. 33B. As shown, a user applies a force Fl to the press point 1468 by pushing down on the “crease” of the lid. Pressing down on the lid 1417 causes the lid rails 1488 to pivot outwardly, which allows the lid 1417 to freely slide along the channels 1493 so that the lid can be slid in either direction to expose the secondary compartment 1450. In some embodiments, the lid 1417 and / or cover 1404 include a stop mechanism to prevent the lid from being completely separated from the cover.

[0349] FIG. 34A is a schematic top perspective view of a child-resistant container 1500 including a body portion 1502 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 1504 including a child resistant lid 1517. As shown in the figures, the lid 517 includes a series of alignment mechanisms 1537a, for example, a pin or other geometrically shaped projection or even just a marking, while the cover 1504 includes a series of mating alignment mechanism 1573b configured to receive or at least visually align with the first alignment mechanisms 1573a. When the alignment mechanisms 1537a, 1537b are not aligned (FIG. 34A), the lid 1517 cannot be removed without a certain level of effort. FIGS. 34B and 34C are schematic top views of the childresistant container 1500 with the alignment mechanisms 1537 not aligned (locked in FIG. 34B) and aligned (unlocked in FIG. 34C) where the lid can be removed from the cover. As also shown, the lid 1517 includes two or more press points 1568 (e.g., pins, buttons, depressions to assist with pressing and twisting the lid).

[0350] To remove the lid 1517 from cover 1504, a user presses down on the two press points 1568 on or in the lid 1517 and rotates the lid until the alignment mechanisms 1537a, 1537b are aligned (e.g., alignment mechanism 1537a or other structure is clear of alignment mechanism 1537b or other retention mechanism), the lid 1517 is then free to be removed. In some embodiments, when the locking mechanism (i.e., alignment mechanisms are clear of one another) the lid may pop up making it easier to remove, thereby exposing the secondary or waste compartment.

[0351] FIGS. 35A and 35B are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 1600 in a closed configuration (FIG. 35A) and an open configuration (FIG. 35C), with the container 1600 including a body portion 1602 (102, 202, 302 as described above) and a cover portion 1604 including a child resistant lid 1617. FIG. 35C is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the child-resistant container depicting the locking mechanism 1677 between the locked and unlocked orientation. FIGS. 35D is a schematic perspective view of the lid 1617 depicting the relative movement of the locking mechanism 1617.

[0352] The locking mechanism 1677 is configured as a tab slidably disposed within the lid 1617 and positioned thereon so that when the locking mechanism 1677 is slid into the locked position (i.e., forward) a stepped down distal portion thereof frictional engages with an upper edge of the cover 1640 (see FIG. 35C). In some embodiments, the cover 1604 may include an additional retention mechanism to further grip the locking mechanism 1677 to prevent inadvertent unlocking. In some embodiments, the locking mechanismAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0353] 1677 may also include a biasing mechanism to assist in maintaining the locking mechanism in its forward or locked position.

[0354] To remove the lid 1617, a user slides the locking mechanisms 1677 into the unlocked position (i.e., backwards away from the perimeter of the cover 1604), which allows the user to remove the lid with a standard force (e.g., via recess 1622), thereby exposing the secondary compartment 1650. See FIG. 35D. In some embodiments where the locking mechanisms 1677 include biasing mechanisms, the user needs to hold both locking mechanisms in their unlocked position to remove the lid. In some embodiments, the lid 1617 and / or cover 1604 may include a biasing or resilient member that provides an upward force to the lid for ease of removal and / or to seal the compartment 1650 against leakage.

[0355] FIGS. 36-39 depict a series of alternative cover embodiments for use with any of the bodies described above, regardless of whichever body portion may be depicted in a particular figure where the covers include child resistant lids that rely on different latching mechanisms to secure the lids to the covers.

[0356] FIGS. 36A and 36B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container 1700 in a closed configuration (FIG. 36A) where the container 1700 includes abody portion 1702 (any of those described herein above) and a cover portion 1704 including a child resistant lid 1717. FIGS.

[0357] 36C and 36D are enlarged cross sectional views of a portion of the child-resistant container 1700 in a locked orientation (FIG. 36C) and unlocked orientation (FIG. 36D). The container 1700 includes a single latch mechanism 1733 on one side / end of the container. The opposite end of the lid 1717 will be hingedly or otherwise connected to the cover 1740 to prevent the lid from becoming separated from the cover. Generally, the latch mechanism 1733 may be a hook and eye type latch arrangement that includes a catch 1729 disposed on the cover and a latch arm 1731 on the lid that removably engages the catch. The latch arm 1731 includes an opening (or eye) 1727 that is sized and shaped to frictionally engage the catch 1729 and is held in place via the interference fit. In some embodiments, the lid and cover include mating snap fit retention members 1737a, 1737b to further secure the lid to the cover.

[0358] Referring to FIGS. 36C and 36D, to open the lid 1717 and access the secondary compartment 1750, a user pushes the catch 1729 inwardly while pulling up on the latch arm 1731 so that the catch clears the eye 1727, thereby raising the lid. In some embodiments, in addition to the force required to push the catch in, a certain amount of force is also required to pull the lid upwardly to overcome the interference between the catch and eye and the snap fit of the retention mechanisms 1737a, 1737b. The secondary compartment 1750 can be reclosed by pressing the lid back down and fully reengaging the latch mechanism.

[0359] FIGS. 37A and 37B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container 1800 in a closed configuration (FIG. 37A) where the container 1800 includes abody portion 1802 (any of those described herein above) and a cover portion 1804 including a child resistant lid 1817. FIGS.

[0360] 37C and 37D are enlarged cross sectional views of the child-resistant container 1800 in a locked orientation (FIG. 37C) and unlocked orientation (FIG. 37D). The container 1800 includes two latch mechanisms 1833, one on each side / end of the container. Generally, the latch mechanisms 1833 are hook and eye type latch arrangements that include catches 1829 on the cover and latch arms 1831 on the lid that removably engage the catches. The catches and latch arms are essentially coupled to the cover and lid via a cantilever arrangement.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0361] When the latch mechanisms are both disengaged, the lid 1817 is completely separable from the cover 1840. The latch arms 1831 include openings (or eyes) 1827 that is sized and shaped to frictionally engage the catches 1829 and are held in place via the interference fit. In some embodiments, the lid and cover include mating snap fit retention members as described elsewhere herein to further secure the lid to the cover.

[0362] Referring to FIGS. 37C and 37D, to remove the lid 1817 and access the secondary compartment 1850, a user pushes the catches 1829 inwardly while pulling up on the latch arms 1831 so that the catches clear the eyes 1827, thereby raising the lid. In some embodiments, in addition to the force required to push the catches in, a certain amount of force is also required to pull the lid upwardly to overcome the interference between the catches and eyes and the snap fit of any additional retention mechanisms. The secondary compartment 1750 can be reclosed by pressing the lid back down and fully reengaging the latch mechanism. In some embodiments, the recess 1822 can assist in removing the lid.

[0363] FIGS. 38A and 38B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container 1900 in a closed configuration (FIG. 38 A) where the container 1900 includes a body portion 1902 (any of those described herein above) and a cover portion 1904 including a child resistant lid 1917. FIGS.

[0364] 38C and 38D are enlarged cross sectional views of the child-resistant container 1900 in a locked orientation (FIG. 38C) and unlocked orientation (FIG. 38D). The container 1900 includes two latch mechanisms 1933, one on each side / end of the container. Generally, the latch mechanisms 1933 are hook and eye type latch arrangements that include catches 1929 disposed on the cover and latch arms 1931 disposed on the lid that removably engage the catches. When the latch mechanisms are both disengaged, the lid 1917 is completely separable from the cover 1940. The latch arms 1931 include protuberances 1929 located at the distal ends thereof and are sized and shaped to frictionally engage openings (or eyes) through the catches 1729. The lid is held in place via the interference fit between the protuberances and catches. In some embodiments, the lid and cover include mating snap fit retention members as described elsewhere herein to further secure the lid to the cover.

[0365] Referring to FIGS. 38C and 38D, to remove the lid 1917 and access the secondary compartment 1950, a user pushes the protuberances 1927 inwardly flexing the latching arms 1931 inwardly to clear the catches 1929, while prying or lifting the lid 1917 upwardly until the latching arm 1931, specifically the protuberance 1927, clears the catch 1929, thereby raising the lid. In some embodiments, in addition to the force required to push the latching arms inwardly, a certain amount of force is also required to pull the lid upwardly to overcome the interference between the catches and protuberances and the snap fit of any retention mechanisms that may be present. The secondary compartment 1950 can be reclosed by pressing the lid back down and fully reengaging the latch mechanisms 1933.

[0366] FIGS. 39A and 39B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container 2000 in a closed configuration (FIG. 39 A) where the container 2000 includes a body portion 2002 (any of those described hereinabove) and a cover portion 2004 including a child resistant lid 2017. FIGS.

[0367] 39C and 39D are enlarged cross sectional views of a portion of the child-resistant container 2000 in a locked orientation (FIG. 39C) and unlocked orientation (FIG. 39D). Generally, the latch mechanism 2033 may be aAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0368] hook and eye type latch arrangement that includes a catch 2029 disposed on the lid and a latch arm 2031 disposed on the cover that removably engages the catch.

[0369] The arrangement is like FIGS. 36A and 36B, where a single latching mechanism is disposed on one end / side of the container and the lid 2017 is hingedly coupled to the cover 2004 at the opposite end / side of the container 2000. In some embodiments, the lid and cover include mating snap fit retention members as described elsewhere herein to further secure the lid to the cover. The latch arm 2031 is pivotably coupled to the cover and includes a hook-like structure at its distal end that is configured to engage a mating hook-like end of the catch 2029 that extends downwardly from the lid (see FIG. 39F). Specifically, the latch arm 2031 is formed from a portion of the cover sidewall 2018 that is partially separated therefrom by a pair of horizontal slits 2062 that allow the latch arm to flex relative to the cover sidewall.

[0370] FIG. 39E is a partially exploded top perspective view of the container depicting the engagement mechanism between the body portion 2002 and the cover 2004, as described above with respect to FIG. 7. FIG. 39F is an enlarged bottom perspective view of the catch portion 2029 of the latch mechanism 2033. Referring to FIGS. 39C and 39D, to open the lid 2017 and access the secondary compartment 2050, a user pushes a lower end of the latch arm 2031 inwardly pivoting the upper end of the latch arm with the hook outwardly to disengage the hook from the catch 2029, thereby allowing the user to raise the lid 2017. The secondary compartment 2050 can be reclosed by pressing the lid back down and fully reengaging the latch mechanism.

[0371] FIGS. 40 and 41 depict two alternative cover embodiments for use with any of the bodies described above, regardless of whichever body portion may be depicted in a particular figure where the covers include child resistant lids that rely on different locking mechanisms to secure the lids to the covers.

[0372] FIGS. 40A-40C are schematic top perspective views of a child-resistant container 2100 in a closed configuration (FIG. 40 A) and an open configuration (FIG. 40C), with the container 2100 including a body portion 2102 and a cover portion 2104 including a child resistant lid 2117. FIG. 40B is an exploded view of the container 2100. FIG. 40D is a bottom perspective view of the cover portion 2104 of the child-resistant container of FIG. 40 A, depicting the arrangement of the outer sidewall 2118 of the cover, a cut-out portion 2165 of an inner sidewall of the cover, the void defined therebetween 2163 to receive the button portion of the sidewall that makes up the unlocking mechanism as described in greater detail below. FIGS. 40E and 40F are cross sectional views of a portion of the child-resistant container 2100 in a locked orientation (FIG. 40E) and unlocked orientation (FIG. 40F).

[0373] As depicted in FIG. 40C, a portion of the cover sidewall includes a slit 2162 that may or may not go all the way through the sidewall and forms a weakened area of the sidewall 2118 allowing it to be flex inwardly. A top surface of the sidewall 2118 also includes a cut-out 2163 to further enable the inward flexing of the sidewall, specifically pivoting inwardly at the ends of the cut-out forming a dual button arrangement 2124. To remove the lid 2117 and access the secondary compartment 2150, a user presses the “dual button” portion of the sidewall 2118 inwardly exposing an edge 2117c of the lid 2117 (see FIG. 40F). The user can then apply upward force to the lid 2117 to lift it way from the cover 2104. Sufficient force is required to lift the lid 2117Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0374] to overcome the mating snap fit retention members 2137a, 2137b used to secure the lid to the cover. The lid 2117 remains connected to the cover 2140 via a hinge 2148.

[0375] FIGS. 41 A and 4 IB are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container 2200 in a closed configuration (FIG. 41 A), with the container 2200 including a body portion 2202 and a cover portion 2204 including a child resistant lid 2217 hingedly coupled thereto. FIGS. 41Cto 41E are cross sectional views of a portion of the child-resistant container 2200 depicting the operation of the locking mechanism. FIG. 4 IF is a top perspective view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 41 A depicting the secondary compartment 2250 in a partially open configuration. FIG. 41G is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the child-resistant container of FIG. 41 A depicting the locking mechanism in a neutral position.

[0376] FIG. 41H is a bottom perspective view of the cover portion 2204 of the child-resistant container of FIG. 41A, depicting the arrangement of the outer sidewall 2218 of the cover, a cut-out portion 2165 of an inner sidewall of the cover, the void defined therebetween 2163 to receive the button portion 2224 of the sidewall that makes up the unlocking mechanism as described in greater detail below.

[0377] As depicted in FIG. 41F, a portion of the cover sidewall includes a slit 2162 through the sidewall 2218 that allows that portion thereof (button 2224) to be flex inwardly. A top surface of the sidewall 2218 also includes a cut-out 2263 to further enable the inward flexing of the sidewall, specifically pivoting inwardly at one end of the cut-out forming the button arrangement 2224. To remove the lid 2217 and access the secondary compartment 2250, a user presses the button portion 2224 of the sidewall 2218 inwardly exposing an edge 2217c of the lid 2217 (see FIG. 4 IE). The user can then apply upward force to the lid 2217 to lift it up from the cover 2204. Sufficient force is required to lift the lid 2217 to overcome the mating snap fit retention members 2237a, 2237b used to secure the lid to the cover. The lid 2217 remains connected to the cover 2240 via a hinge 2248.

[0378] FIG. 411 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the child-resistant container 2200 of FIG. 41A with an alternative body portion 2202’. The body portion can be in accordance with the body portion described hereinabove with respect to FIG. 15.

[0379] FIGS. 42A and 42B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container 2300 in a closed configuration (FIG. 42A), with the container 2300 including a body portion 2302 and a cover portion 2304 including a child resistant lid 2317. FIGS. 42C and 42D are cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container 2300 depicting the container in a locked configuration (FIG. 42C) and an unlocked configuration (FIG. 42D). The container 2300 is substantially similar to the containers described hereinabove with respect to FIGS. 7-14 insofar as the connection between the lid 2317 and cover 2304 operates on the same principle as the connection between the cover 2304 and the body portion 2302, which in turn operates on the same principle as the container 200.

[0380] FIGS. 42E and 42F are schematic top perspective and side views, respectively, of the container body portion 2302 of the child-resistant container 2300 of FIG. 42A depicting a portion of the interlocking / retention mechanisms 2336b used to secure the cover 2304 to the body portion 2302 as described above with respect to container 200. The body portion 2302 is slightly modified from the body portion 202 described above insofarAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0381] as the button portion 2324 is configured flex inwardly from the bottom wall of the body portion and the walls may be shorter to accommodate the similar mechanism on the cover 2304.

[0382] FIGS. 42G and 42H are schematic top perspective views of the child-resistant container 2300 depicting the operation of a locking mechanism for the secondary compartment 2350. Generally, a user presses in simultaneously on both press points 2368, which are resilient portions of the outer sidewall of the lid 2317 that can be flexed inwardly to assist in separating the lid from the cover, but provides sufficient resistance to being separated by a child, along with the engagement of the retention mechanisms. There are two press points 2368 disposed 180 degrees apart. Pressing the press points 2368 causes the portions of the lid sidewall corresponding thereto to flex inwardly to clear the radial catch(es) 2334b (see FIGS. 421 and 42J) and allow the lid 2317 to be twisted off via the threaded retention mechanisms 2336a, 2336b.

[0383] FIGS. 43A and 43B are schematic top perspective and exploded views, respectively, of a childresistant container 2400 in a closed configuration (FIG. 43 A) where the container 2400 includes a body portion 2402 (any of those described hereinabove) and a cover portion 2404 including a child resistant lid 2417. FIG.

[0384] 43C is abottom perspective view of the lid 2417 of the child-resistant container of FIG. 43 Adepicting a series of locking projections 2470 that are configured to engage a channel 2497 disposed about the perimeter of the secondary compartment 2450 (see FIG. 43B). Three projections are shown equally spaced about the lid (i.e., 120 degrees); however, the quantity and locations of the projections may vary to suit a particular application. As shown in FIG. 43B, the channel 2497 includes three receptacles 2464 equally spaced about the cover. The receptacles 2464 are sized and shaped to allow the projections 2470 to pass therethrough vertically when the lid and cover are in their unlocked orientation.

[0385] FIGS. 43D and 43F are schematic top perspective views of the child-resistant container of FIG. 43 A depicting the locked orientation of the cover 2404 and lid 2417 (FIG. 43D) and the unlocked orientation of the cover and lid (FIG. 43F). FIGS. 43E and 43G are enlarged cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container of FIGS. 43D and FIG. 43F, respectively, depicting the locking mechanism in greater detail.

[0386] Referring to FIGS. 43D-43G, the lid 2417 is removable by aligning the locking projections 2470 on the lid with the receptacles 2464 on the cover 2404. A user may use the depressions 2468 disposed on the outside surface of a sidewall of the lid 2417 to turn the lid until the projections and receptacles are aligned (FIGS. 43F and 43G). When the projections and receptacles are not aligned (FIGS. 43D and 43E) the channel 2497 overlays the projections 2470 preventing the lid from being removed. Once the projections and receptacles are aligned, the user can lift the lid 2417 off of the cover by overcoming the mating snap fit retention members 2437a, 2437b used to secure the lid to the cover. The recesses can assist a user in lifting the lid. Once lifted, the lid is completely separated from the cover.

[0387] FIGS. 43H and 431 are cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container 2400 depicting the container (specifically the cover 2404 and the body portion 2402) in a locked configuration (FIG. 43H) and an unlocked configuration (FIG. 431). The container 2400 is substantially similar to the containers described hereinabove with respect to FIGS. 7-14 insofar as the connection between the body portion 2402 and the cover 2404 operates on the same principle as the connection between the cover 204 and the body portion 202 described above.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0388] FIGS. 43 J and 43K are schematic cross-sectional views of the child-resistant container 2400 of FIG.

[0389] 43A with an alternative body portion 2402’. The body portion can be in accordance with the body portion described hereinabove with respect to FIG. 1.

[0390] FIGS. 44-57 depict two example implementations of a child resistant container 2500, 2500’ in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Generally, the containers 2500, 2500’ each include a base or body portion 2502 that may be configured to hold a consumer product and a cover 2504, 2504’ configured to be securely, but removably, coupled to the body portion 2502, each of which is described in greater detail below. As shown in FIGS. 44A and 44B, the covers 2504, 2504’ and body portions 2502 may abut one another when engaged and their respective outer surfaces may be flush with one another, making it difficult to separate the two parts. In some implementations, the covers 2504, 2504’ are secured to their respective body portions 2502 via a snap or interference fit, which provides additional resistance to separating the two parts. The engagement of the covers 2504, 2504’ and body portions 2502 are shown in greater detail and described with respect to FIGS. 47A-47C.

[0391] Generally, FIGS. 44A, 45A, and 47B depict a first example implementation where a first internal compartment of the child resistant container 2500 is only accessible via a single flex zone 2524, while FIGS.

[0392] 44B, 45B, and 47C depict a second example implementation where the first internal compartment of the child resistant container 2500 is accessible via two, opposing flex zones 2524a, 2524b. In some embodiments, the locations of the flex zones 2524 are dictated by the cover configurations as described below and can be associated with any location about the perimeters of the body portions 2502. Further, the description of one container and / or its individual components is applicable to the other container and / or components unless stated otherwise and the reference characters may be used interchangeably.

[0393] As shown in FIGS. 47A-47C, 48 and 49, the body portion 2502 includes a bottom wall 2508 and a sidewall 2510 extending upwardly from, and about, a peripheral edge 2506 of the bottom wall 2508. The same body portion 2502 is useable with either cover configuration. The sidewall 2510 has a top edge or upper rim 2512 that in turn defines an opening through which the contents of the container 2500 may be accessed. The bottom wall 2508 and sidewall 2510 define an internal space 2540 that may be accessible via the opening when the cover 2504, 2504’ is removed therefrom. The internal space 2540 of the body portion 2502 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.

[0394] The sidewall 2510 extends around the entire perimeter of the body portion 2502 and has an inner surface and an outer surface. In some embodiments, the sidewall has an upper region 2510a and a lower region 2510b that may be separated horizontally by a ledge 2538. 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 2504 to the body portion 2502. While the sidewall 2510 introduced herein is initially described as having a single, contiguous circular wall, the sidewall 2510 may comprise multiple wall portions or linear segments as would be necessary, for example, if the container 2500 had a non-cylindrical shape (e.g., rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.) and may include inner and outer sidewalls as described below.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0395] Generally, the sidewall 2510 of the body portion 2502 includes a first retention mechanism 2534a 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 2512 defining the opening). The first retention mechanism 2534a may have a concave or V-shape that extends along the entire perimeter / circumference of the body portion 2502 or may comprise a series of first retention mechanisms spaced about the body portion sidewall. For example, the first retention mechanism 2534a may be a continuous V or U-shaped groove running 360 degrees about the body portion or may include a plurality of separate grooves 2534a spaced equidistant about the top edge 2512 of the body portion 2502 or located at only certain location along the body portion. The specific configuration and number of retention mechanisms 2534a may vary to suit a particular application (e.g., the size, shape, and structure of the container). In some embodiments, the retention mechanism(s) 2534a 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 2534a 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 2534b in the cover 2504. Additionally, the retention mechanisms may also be sized and shaped to accommodate a separate seal or gasket.

[0396] In some embodiments, the body portion 2502 includes an optional hinge mechanism 2532, which may comprise a thinned wall portion located proximate the peripheral edge 2506 of the body portion 2502 that makes the sidewall 2510 more flexible relative to the bottom wall 2508. Additionally, in some embodiments, the outer surface of the body portion sidewall may include an optional anti-rotation mechanism 2566a, which may include a series of protuberances, ribs, other structure to provide frictional engagement between the body portion 2502 and the cover 2504 when attached thereto. Removal of the cover from the body portion is described in greater detail below.

[0397] As shown in FIGS. 50-54, the covers 2504, 2504’ each include a top wall 2516, 2516’, having a top surface 2516a, 2516a’ and a bottom surface 2516b, 2516b’, and an outer sidewall 2518, 2518’ that extends downwardly, and about, a peripheral edge 2520, 2520’ of the top wall 2516, 2516’ the cover outer sidewall 2518, 2518’ having an inner surface and an outer surface. The top wall 2516, 2516’ includes a generally planar central portion and a non-planar border portion 2516c surrounding the central portion that corresponds to the peripheral edge 2520, 2520’ of the cover 2504, 2504’. Generally, the border portions 2516c, 2516c’ include a series of bends that define portions of the retention mechanisms, opening mechanisms, and / or interfaces between the cover and body portion (see also FIGS. 47A-47C).

[0398] Referring again to FIGS. 50-54, the covers 2504, 2504’ each also includes an inner sidewall 2564, 2564’ that extends upwardly from the top surface 2516a, 2516a’ of the cover top wall and therewith defines an internal space or receptacle 2550, 2550’ accessible via removal of the lid 2517. See FIGS. 47A-47C and 57A-57F. The internal space 2550, 2550’ may be used to hold or store waste or spent materials. In some implementations, the covers 2504, 2504’ include a recess 2522, 2522’ or similar structure that may, for example, assist a user in handling the container 2500 and / or manipulating the cover 2504, 2504’. In someAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0399] embodiments, the recess 2522, 2522’ provides a visual clue as to the location of a release mechanism for removing the lid 2517 as described in greater detail below.

[0400] As shown in FIG. 54, the cover 2504 includes a first mating retention mechanism 2534b disposed about a perimeter of the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall 2518 proximate a lower edge 2542 of the cover outer sidewall and configured to removably engage the first retention mechanism 2534a when the cover 2504 is engaged with the body portion 2502. In some embodiments, the first mating retention mechanism 2534b comprises a plurality of tabs or similar structures sized and shaped to interface with corresponding structure (e.g., a groove) of the first retention mechanism 2534a. In some embodiments, the tabs (mating retention mechanism 2534b) may have a convex or V-shaped projection configured to mate with the shape of the first retention mechanism 2534a to securely engage the cover 2504 to the body portion 2502. In some embodiments, the mating retention mechanism 2534b includes a series of tabs spaced equidistant about the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall 2518, although the first mating retention mechanism 2534b may also extend along the entire perimeter / circumference of the cover outer sidewall 2518. Alternatively, in some embodiments, there may be only two tabs spaced 180 degrees apart so that the cover 2504 needs to have a specific rotational orientation relative to the body portion 2502 to enable removal of the cover. The vertical orientation of the first retention mechanisms (2534 collectively) is selected so that the first mating retention mechanism 2534b engages the first retention mechanism 2534a in a snap fit configuration as shown in FIGS. 47A-4C and 55. 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). Cover 2504’ has a substantially identical structure.

[0401] FIGS. 50A, 50B, 51 A, and 5 IB depict a locking mechanism, which includes a locking projection 2576 on the lid 2517 and a mating locking mechanism 2558, 2558’ configured to retain the locking projection 2576 of the lid 2517 and prevent inadvertent removal thereof. The mating locking mechanism 2558, 2558’ extends about the perimeter (or proximate thereto) of the cover 2504, 2504’ and defines a groove 2558a, 2558a’configured to receive one or more locking projections disposed on the lid 2517 as discussed in greater detail below. The mating locking mechanism 2558, 2558’ further defines two alignment slots 2560, 2560’ spaced 180 degrees apart in the perimeter of the locking mechanism. The alignment slots 2560, 2560’ are sized, shaped, and oriented to correspond to the locking projections of the lid 2517.

[0402] As shown in FIGS. 52A, 52B, 53A, and 53B, the underside of the covers 2504, 2504’ each includes a groove or receptacle 2544, 2544’ extending about the perimeter of the cover 2504, 2504’ that is defined by an outer surface of the inner wall 2564, 2564’ and the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall 2518, 2518’. Generally, the groove 2544, 2544’ is configured to receive a portion of the sidewall 2510 of the body portion (see, for example, FIGS. 47A-47C), which is described in greater detail below. Disposed within the groove 2544, 2544’ is a rib(s) 2548, 2548’ extending at least partially about the perimeter of the cover 2504, 2504’. The ribs 2548, 2548’ are configured to prevent the sidewall 2510 of the body portion from being flexed inwardly at the locations defined by the ribs 2548, 2548’. See FIG. 57C, which depicts that the application of a force to the sidewall 2510 fails to deflect the sidewall 2510 inwardly.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0403] As shown in FIGS. 52A and 53 A, there is a single rib 2548 depicted that defines a gap 2572. The rib extends about a substantial portion of the perimeter of the cover 2504, with the gap spanning approximately 30 degrees to about 45 degrees; however, the specific width of the gap 2572 can be varied to suit a particular application (e.g., the desired size of the flex zone 2524). The gap 2572 defines an area where the body portion sidewall 2510 may be deflected inwardly by application of a force thereto, to assist in removal of the cover 2504 from the body portion. Generally, the location of the gap 2572 corresponds to the locations of the recess 2522 disposed in the top side of the cover 2504.

[0404] As shown in FIGS. 52B and 53B, there are two ribs 2548’ depicted that define two gaps 2572’ disposed 180 degrees apart. The gaps 2572’ define an area where the body portion sidewall 2510 may be deflected inwardly by application of a force thereto, to assist in removal of the cover 2504 from the body portion. The number and orientation of the ribs 2548 may be selected to suit a particular application. In some embodiments, each gap 2572’ spans about 30 degrees to about 45 degrees. Generally, the locations of gaps 2572’ correspond to the locations of the recesses 2522’ disposed in the topside of the cover 2504’.

[0405] FIG. 56A depicts the underside of the removable lid 2517 disclosed above. As shown, the lid 2517 has a top wall 2517a and a sidewall 2554 extending downwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the lid top wall. The lid sidewall 2554 has an inner surface and an outer surface and a mating locking mechanism 2576 (i.e., the projections) disposed at a distal end of the inner surface of the lid sidewall and extending inwardly. As shown, the lid 2517 includes two locking projections 2576 disposed 180 degrees apart and each extending about or along a portion of the perimeter of the lid. The lid 2517 further includes an inner wall 2556 spaced inwardly from the sidewall 2554 and defining a groove or receptacle 2544 therebetween. In some embodiments, the groove 2544 is configured to receive at least a portion of the cover 2504, 2504’ sidewalls or top wall boundary region. See FIG. 57C. In some embodiments, a second retention mechanism 2537b is disposed about an outer surface of the inner sidewall 2556. As shown in FIG. 55, the cover 2504 includes a second mating retention mechanism 2537a, 2537a’ disposed on the inner surface of the inner sidewall 2564, 2564’ of the cover. In some embodiments, the second retention mechanism 2537b is a shallow projection extending about the entire perimeter of the inner lid sidewall 2556, while the second mating retention mechanism 2537a, 2537a’ comprises a series of shallow projections equally spaced about the perimeter of the cover inner sidewall 2562, 2564’. In some embodiments, the second retention mechanism 2537b’ comprises two symmetrical beads defining a gap 2539’ therebetween as shown in an alternative removable lid 2517’ shown in FIG. 56B. The second retention mechanism (collectively 2537) is configured to provide additional resistance to removing the lid 2517 from the cover 2504, 2504’, preventing inadvertent removal of the lid 2517 when the locking mechanisms are in an unlocked orientation. Removal of the lid 2517 is described below with reference to FIGS. 57E and 57F.

[0406] Removal of the cover 2504, 2504’ from the body portion 2502 is shown and described with respect to FIGS. 47A-47B and 57A-57F. As shown, the application of a force (Fi) to one or two locations (flex zones 2524) about the perimeter of the body portion, causes the body sidewall 2510 to deflect inwardly so as to expose the bottom edge 2542 of the cover 2504 and allow a user to pry open the cover 2504 (e.g., by using a tool or fingernail against the ledge 2538), thereby applying an upward force (Fv) to the cover 2504, 2504’ toAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0407] disengage the retention mechanisms 2534 and remove the cover from the body portion. Typically, force 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 2504, 2504’ from the body portion 2502. However, in some embodiments, an additional application of force may be required to completely disengage the cover from the body. For example, an upward pulling application by the user. In some embodiments, the recess(es) 2522 may provide additional structure that can further assist a user in prying the cover 2504, 2504’ from the body portion 2502 to access the internal space 2540.

[0408] As shown in FIG. 45 A, the container 2500 has a single flex zone 2524 that corresponds to the area of the body portion sidewall 2510 that aligns with the gap 2572 shown in FIG. 53 A. The absence of the rib 2548 in that area, allows the wall 2510 to flex inwardly (see FIG. 57B), while the body portion sidewall 2510 corresponding to the location of the rib(s) 2548 prevents the wall from flexing inwardly (see FIG. 57C). In some embodiments, the recess 2522 in the cover 2504 corresponds to where the gap 2572 is located and provides a visual cue to the user as to where the removal force (Fi) should be applied. FIG. 45B depicts the embodiment having two flex zones 2524a, 2524b that that correspond to the areas of the body portion sidewall 2510 that aligns with the gaps 2572’ shown in FIG. 53B. The absence of the rib 2548’ in those areas, allows the wall 2510 to flex inwardly (see FIGS. 57B and 57D), while the body portion sidewall 2510 corresponding to the location of the rib(s) 2548’ prevents the wall 2510 from flexing inwardly. As shown in FIG. 53B, the gaps 2572’ are oriented 180 degrees apart (e.g., at two opposed locations corresponding to a user’s thumb and forefinger); however, the number and orientation of the flex zones can vary to suit a particular application. Also, the width of the gaps can be varied to tune the amount of force (Fi) required to flex the body portion sidewall 2510 inwardly far enough to effectuate removal of the cover.

[0409] FIGS. 57E and 57F further illustrate the removal of the lid 2517 from the cover 204 to access the second internal space 250. Removal of the lid 2517 from the alternative cover 204’ operates in the same manner. As disclosed above, the lid 2517 includes two mating locking projections 2576. The projections 2576 are sized, shaped, and oriented to engage with the alignment slots 2560 in the mating locking mechanism 2558 on the cover 204. Once the projections 2576 are aligned with the slots 2560, a downward force on the lid 2517 disengages the second retention mechanism 2537 and the lid 2517 can be rotated so that the locking projections 2576 are disposed within the groove 2558a of the mating locking mechanism 2558, thereby preventing the lid 2517 from being removed from the cover 204. As shown in FIG. 57F, the locking projection 2576 is disposed within the groove 2558a such that if a user attempted to lift of or otherwise remove the lid from the cover, the locking projection 2576 butts up against a wall of the mating locking mechanism 2558. In some embodiments, the locking projections 2576 may comprise a level of flexibility that allows the locking projections to apply a slight spring force to mating locking mechanism 2558 (e.g., via an otherwise interference fit) to as to create frictional engagement between mating surfaces of the cover and lid, and by extension, enhance the child resistance thereof. In some embodiments, the lid 2517 may be depressed downwardly lessen or eliminate the frictionally engagement between the mating surfaces so that a user may more easily rotate the lid into its unlocked orientation.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0410] In some embodiments, it is not necessary to align the projections 2576 and slots 2560 to attach the lid to the cover, as the locking projections 2576 may be configured to allow the lid to be forced or snapped onto the cover. In some embodiments, the projection 2576 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 2576 and a corresponding chamfered leading edge on the top of the locking mechanism 2558 may facilitate pushing the lid onto the cover. In some embodiments, the lid 2517 can be engaged with the cover 2504 in any orientation, i.e., the relative locations of the projections and locking mechanism 2558 does not prevent the lid from engaging the cover.

[0411] To remove the lid 2517, a user rotates the lid (arrow R in FIG. 57E) until the locking projections 2576 are aligned with the slots or openings 2560 in the mating locking mechanism 2558, and when aligned, the user applies an upward forced Fu (i.e., a pull) to the lid as shown in FIG. 57E. The upward force Fu needs to be sufficient to overcome the mating second retention mechanism 2537. In some embodiments, the upward force is provided by a fingernail or tool prying the lid upwardly at a recess proximate the ledge 2538. 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 (see, e.g., FIGS. 23-27). Additionally, or alternatively, the cover and / or lid may include indicia to assist a user with properly aligning the locking projections 2576 with the slots 2560.

[0412] FIGS. 58-70 depict another example implementation of a child resistant container 2600, 2600’ in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Generally, the containers 2600, 2600’ each include a base or body portion 2602 that may be configured to hold a consumer product and a cover 2604, 2604’ configured to be securely, but removably, coupled to the body portion 2602. Various embodiments of the body portions and covers are generally described in greater detail elsewhere herein. As discussed generally throughout, the covers and the body portions may abut one another when engaged and their respective outer surfaces may be flush with one another, making it difficult to separate the two parts. In some implementations, the covers 2604 are secured to their respective body portions 2602 via a snap or interference fit, which provides additional resistance to separating the two parts. The engagement of the covers 2604 and body portions 2602 are shown in greater detail and described with respect to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 47A-47C, as the container 2600 is substantially similar to other containers described hereinabove.

[0413] As shown in FIGS. 60 A, 60B, 61, 62A, and 62B, the body portion 2602 includes a bottom wall 2608 and a sidewall 2610 extending upwardly from, and about, a peripheral edge 2606 of the bottom wall 2608. The sidewall 2610 has a top edge or upper rim 2612 that in turn defines an opening through which the contents of the container 2600 may be accessed. The bottom wall 2608 and sidewall 2610 define an internal space 2640 that may be accessible via the opening when the cover 2604 is removed therefrom. The internal space 2640 of the body portion 2602 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 16960WO (01621)

[0414] The sidewall 2610 extends around the entire perimeter of the body portion 2602 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 2638. 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 2604 to the body portion 2602. While the sidewall 2610 introduced herein is initially described as having a single, contiguous circular wall, the sidewall 2610 may comprise multiple wall portions or linear segments as would be necessary, for example, if the container 2600 had a non-cylindrical shape (e.g., rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.) and may include inner and outer sidewalls as described below.

[0415] Generally, the sidewall 2610 of the body portion 2602 includes a retention mechanism 2634a disposed about a perimeter (or circumference depending on the shape of the body portion) of the inner surface of the upper region of the sidewall proximate a top edge thereof (e.g., top edge 2612 defining the opening). The retention mechanism 2634a may have a convex or V-shape that extends along the entire perimeter / circumference of the body portion 2602 or may comprise a series of retention mechanisms spaced about the body portion sidewall. For example, the retention mechanism 2634a may be a continuous V or U-shaped projection running 360 degrees about the body portion or may include a plurality of separate projections 2634a spaced equidistant about the top edge 2612 of the body portion 2602 or located at only certain locations along the body portion. The retention mechanism 2634a is configured to engage a mating retention mechanism in the cover 2604 as described below. The specific configuration and number of retention mechanisms 2634a may vary to suit a particular application (e.g., the size, shape, and structure of the container). In some embodiments, the retention mechanism(s) 2634a 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 2634a 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 2634b in the cover 2604. Additionally, the retention mechanisms may also be sized and shaped to accommodate a separate seal or gasket.

[0416] Generally, FIGS. 58-62 depict an implementation of the container where a first internal compartment of the child resistant container 2600 is only accessible via a flex zone 2624, as described above with respect to the other containers 100-2500. Further, the description of one container and / or its individual components is applicable to the other container and / or components unless stated otherwise and the reference characters may be used interchangeably.

[0417] As shown in FIGS. 63-66, the cover 2604 includes a top wall 2616 having a top surface 2616a and a bottom surface 2616b, and an outer sidewall 2618 that extends downwardly, and about, a peripheral edge 2620 of the top wall 2616 the cover outer sidewall 2618 having an inner surface and an outer surface. The top wall 2616 includes a generally planar central portion and a non-planar border portion 2616c surrounding the central portion that corresponds to the peripheral edge 2620 of the cover 2604. Generally, the border portions 2616c include a series of bends that define portions of the retention mechanisms, opening mechanisms, and / orAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0418] interfaces between the cover and body portion as described elsewhere with respect to any of the containers described herein.

[0419] Referring again to FIGS. 63-66, the cover 2604 also includes an inner sidewall 2664 that extends upwardly from the top surface 2616a of the cover top wall and therewith defines an internal space or receptacle 2650 accessible via removal of the lid 2617. In the embodiment shown, the inner sidewall 2664 is disposed further inwardly from the outer sidewall 2618, thereby defining a smaller internal space then in some of the other embodiments described herein. See FIGS. 67-70. The internal space 2650 may be used to hold or store waste or spent materials. In some implementations, the cover 2604 includes a recess 2622 or similar structure that may, for example, assist a user in handling the container 2600 and / or manipulating the cover 2604. In some embodiments, the recess 2622 provides a visual clue as to the location of a release mechanism for removing the lid 2617 as described in greater detail below.

[0420] As shown in FIGS. 60A and 60B, the cover 2604 includes a first mating retention mechanism 2634b disposed about a perimeter of the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall 2618 proximate a lower edge 2642 of the cover outer sidewall and configured to removably engage the first retention mechanism 2634a when the cover 2604 is engaged with the body portion 2602. In some embodiments, the first mating retention mechanism 2634b comprises a plurality of tabs or similar structures sized and shaped to interface with corresponding structure (e.g., a groove) of the first retention mechanism 2634a. In some embodiments, the tabs (mating retention mechanism 2634b) may have a convex or V-shaped projection configured to mate with the shape of the first retention mechanism 2634a to securely engage the cover 2604 to the body portion 2602. In some embodiments, the mating retention mechanism 2634b includes a series of tabs spaced equidistant about the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall 2618, although the first mating retention mechanism 2634b may also extend along the entire perimeter / circumference of the cover outer sidewall 2618. Alternatively, in some embodiments, there may be only two tabs spaced 180 degrees apart so that the cover 2604 needs to have a specific rotational orientation relative to the body portion 2602 to enable removal of the cover. The vertical orientation of the first retention mechanisms (2634 collectively) is selected so that the first mating retention mechanism 2634b engages the first retention mechanism 2634a in a snap fit configuration. 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).

[0421] FIGS. 63, 64, 65A, and 65B depict a mating locking mechanism 2658 configured to retain the lid 2617 and prevent inadvertent removal thereof. The mating locking mechanism 2658 extends about the perimeter (or proximate thereto) of the cover 2604 and defines a groove 2658a, configured to receive a locking projection disposed on the lid 2617 as discussed in greater detail below. The mating locking mechanism 2658 further defines alignment slots or openings 2660 non-equally spaced about the perimeter of the mating locking mechanism. The alignment slots 2660 are sized, shaped, and oriented to correspond to the locking projections of the lid 2617. In the embodiment shown, the locking mechanism includes three locking projections non-equally spaced about the lid (see FIGS. 68 and 70) and three openings non-equally spaced about the cover. The openings are sized and shaped to allow the projections to pass therethrough vertically when the lid and cover are properly aligned in their unlocked orientation; however, the quantityAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0422] and locations of the projections / openings may vary to suit a particular application. For example, in some embodiments, there may be more than three locking projections and / or openings 2660 to add complexity to the alignment and removal of the lid 2617 from the cover 2604 and potentially improving child resistance. In some embodiments, the size (e.g., length) and shapes of the locking projections 2676 and openings 2660 may vary to further limit the orientations in which the lid and cover are unlocked. In the embodiment shown, locking projections 2676a, 2676b are longer (extend further circumferentially) than locking projection 2676c. See FIG. 68.

[0423] As shown in FIG. 66, the underside of the covers 2604 includes a groove or receptacle 2644 extending about the perimeter of the cover 2604 that is defined by an outer surface of the inner wall 2664 and the inner surface of the cover outer sidewall 2618. Generally, the groove 2644 is configured to receive a portion of the sidewall 2610 of the body portion, as described elsewhere herein. Disposed within the groove 2644 is a rib(s) 2648 extending at least partially about the perimeter of the cover 2604. The ribs 2648 are configured to prevent the sidewall 2610 of the body portion from being flexed inwardly at the locations defined by the ribs 2648. See FIG. 57C, which depicts that the application of a force to the body portion sidewall fails to deflect the body portion sidewall inwardly.

[0424] As shown in FIG. 66, there is a single rib 2648 depicted that defines a gap 2672. The rib extends about a substantial portion of the perimeter of the cover 2604, with the gap spanning approximately 260 degrees to about 45 degrees; however, the specific width of the gap 2672 can be varied to suit a particular application (e.g., the desired size of the flex zone 2624). The gap 2672 defines an area where the body portion sidewall 2610 may be deflected inwardly by application of a force thereto, to assist in removal of the cover 2604 from the body portion. In some embodiments, the location of the gap 2672 corresponds to the locations of the recess 2622 disposed in the topside of the cover 2604.

[0425] FIG. 67 is a top perspective view of a removable lid 2617 for use with the cover 2604 described above and is similar in structure as the lid 2517 described herein. FIGS. 68, 69A, and 69B depict the underside of the removable lid 2617 and FIGS. 70A and 70B depict the front and side views, respectively, of the lid 2617. As shown, the lid 2617 has a top wall 2617a and a sidewall 2654 extending downwardly from and about a peripheral edge of the lid top wall. The lid sidewall 2654 has an inner surface and an outer surface and a mating locking mechanism 2676 (e.g., a projection) disposed at a distal end of the inner surface of the lid sidewall and extending inwardly. As shown, the lid 2617 includes three non-equally spaced locking projections 2676, each extending about or along a portion of the perimeter of the lid. The lid 2617 further includes an inner wall 2656 spaced inwardly from the sidewall 2654 and defining a groove or receptacle 2646 therebetween. In some embodiments, the groove 2646 is configured to receive at least a portion of the cover 2604 sidewall or top wall boundary region. In some embodiments, a second retention mechanism 2637b is disposed about an outer surface of the inner sidewall 2656. As shown, the cover 2604 includes a second mating retention mechanism 2637a disposed on the inner surface of the inner sidewall 2664 of the cover. In some embodiments, the second retention mechanism 2637b is a shallow projection extending about the entire perimeter of the inner lid sidewall 2656, while the second mating retention mechanism 2637a comprises a series of shallow projections equally spaced about the perimeter of the coverAtty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)

[0426] inner sidewall 2664. In some embodiments, the second retention mechanism 2637b’ comprises two symmetrical beads defining a gap 2639 therebetween. The second retention mechanism (collectively 2637) is configured to provide additional resistance to removing the lid 2617 from the cover 2604, preventing inadvertent removal of the lid 2617 when the locking mechanisms are in an unlocked orientation. Removal of the lid 2617 is essentially identical to the operation described with respect to container 2500 and reference to FIGS. 57E and 57F.

[0427] The amount of force required to remove the lids and covers disclosed herein 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 containers 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 may be included and disposed about the perimeter of the body portion, 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 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 of the body portion may include a structure that provides an audible cue when engaged, for example, a force is applied.

[0428] In addition, in embodiments including both internal spaces, the sizes (i.e., volumes) thereof may be substantially equal or the volume of the cover internal space *50 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 *40.

[0429] 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.

[0430] 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 16960WO (01621)WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

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 and about a peripheral edge of the bottom wall; a cover configured to securely and removably engage the body portion, 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 removable lid disposed in the top wall of the cover, wherein the removable lid comprises a locking mechanism.

2. The child resistant container of claim 1, wherein the cover further comprises a receptacle formed therein and accessible via removal of the lid.

3. The child resistant container of claim 2, wherein the lid is disengaged from the cover by the application of a first force applied to the cover or lid via a button assembly and a second force applied to the lid via rotation.

4. The child resistant container of claim 1, wherein the lid is configured to engage the cover via a rotational force.

5. The child resistant container of claim 1, wherein the lid is configured to engage the cover via a snap fit.

6. 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 and about a peripheral edge of the bottom wall, the sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface and a top edge defining the opening;a cover configured to securely and removably engage the body portion, 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; anda removable lid configured to securely and removably engage the cover, wherein the removable lid comprises a locking mechanism for engaging the cover.

7. The child resistant container of claim 6, 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.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)8. The child resistant container of claim 7, 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.

9. The child resistant container of claim 8, wherein the locking mechanism comprises one or more locking projections that engage a channel in the mating locking mechanism, the one or more locking projections disposed about a perimeter of the lid sidewall.

10. The child resistant container of claim 9, wherein the locking mechanism comprises three locking projections equally spaced about the lid.

11. The child resistant container of claim 10, wherein the mating locking mechanisms comprises three openings equally spaced about the cover.

12. The child resistant container of claim 8, wherein the lid further comprises one or more push points disposed on a surface thereof and configured to rotate the lid to align the locking mechanism and the mating locking mechanism into a locked or unlocked orientation.

13. The child resistant container of claim 12, further comprising a spring mechanism configured to bias one or mating surfaces between the cover and the lid into frictional engagement.

14. The child resistant container of claim 13, wherein the push points are further configured disengage the frictional engagement of the cover and the lid by application of a force thereto.

15. The child resistant container of claim 9, wherein the locking mechanism comprises three locking projections non-equally spaced about the lid.

16. The child resistant container of claim 15, wherein the mating locking mechanisms comprises three openings non-equally spaced about the cover.

17. The child resistant container of claim 16, wherein the locking projections and the openings comprise corresponding orientations.

18. The child resistant container of claim 6, wherein the cover engages the body portion via an interference fit or a snap fit.Atty.Dkt.No. N106153 16960WO (01621)19. The child resistant container of claim 18, wherein the cover is removable from the body portion by flexing one or more portions of the body portion sidewall inwardly to disengage the first retention mechanism from the first mating retention mechanism upon application of a force thereto. EG flexing one or more portions of the outer sidewall of the body portion sidewall inwardly exposes a lower edge of the cover to allow a user to apply an upward force to the cover to cause the first retention mechanism to disengage first mating retention mechanism.

Images