Container with divider

Abstract

There is provided a container having a bottom wall and a sidewall extending from the bottom wall to define a storage area, and a divider wall disposed within the storage area. The divider wall has a double curvature comprising a first curved portion and a second curved portion, dividing the storage area into a first section and a second section. The first curved portion faces the first section and the second curved portion faces the second section, where each curvature may conform to and / or otherwise accommodate a scoop to facilitate retrieval of powdered substances while reducing gaps between the scoop and the divider wall during a scooping operation.

Description

Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009CONTAINER WITH DIVIDERCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.63 / 788,528 entitled “Container with Divider,” filed on April 14, 2025, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 809,926 entitled “Container with Divider,” filed on May 21, 2025, the contents of both are hereby incorporated by reference int their entireties.BACKGROUND1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present disclosure relates to storage containers. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to containers having internal divider walls for separating a storage area into a plurality of sections, and to methods of retrieving powdered substances from such containers.2. Technical Background

[0003] Storage containers are widely used for holding powdered substances such as nutritional supplements, protein powders, and other granular or powdered materials. It is often desirable to store multiple different powdered substances within a single container for convenience and efficient use of space. However, conventional containers typically provide an undivided interior volume, which may make it difficult to keep different powdered substances separated from one another without the use of separate containers or external packaging solutions.

[0004] Furthermore, retrieving a measured amount of a powdered substance from a container using a scoop can present difficulties. Powder may underfill or overfill the scoop, or fall from the scoop during retrieval, leading to inaccurate measurement and waste. These difficulties may be exacerbated when internal dividing structures do not conform to the geometry of common 14922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009scooping implements, resulting in gaps between the scoop and the divider surface through which powder may escape. There is accordingly a need for improved container configurations that facilitate both the separated storage of multiple powdered substances and the accurate retrieval of measured quantities thereof.SUMMARY

[0005] The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0006] According to a first aspect, there is provided a container, having a bottom wall and a sidewall extending from the bottom wall to define a storage area. A divider wall is disposed within the storage area and extends across the storage area to divide the storage area into a first section on a first side of the divider wall and a second section on a second side of the divider wall The divider wall includes a first curved portion and a second curved portion, the first curved portion having a first curvature and the second curved portion having a second curvature such that the divider wall has a double curvature. The first curved portion faces the first section and the second curved portion faces the second section.

[0007] According to a second aspect, there is provided a container having a bottom wall and a sidewall extending from the bottom wall to defining a storage area. A divider wall is disposed within the storage area and extends across the storage area to divide the storage area into at least two sections. The divider wall comprises at least one straight portion extending from a location on the sidewall to a second location on the sidewall or to a central junction point within the storage area.24922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009

[0008] Features that are described in the context of separate aspects and embodiments of the invention may be used together and / or be interchangeable. Similarly, features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which:

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a container having a curved divider wall disposed within a storage area, according to an embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the container having a curved divider wall disposed within a storage area, according to an embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a side view of a container, according to an embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the container, according to an embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a method of retrieving a powdered substance from a container having a divider with a double curvature, according to an embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a container having no divider and defining a singular undivided section, according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a container having a singular straight divider portion extending across the container and separating the storage area into two sections, according to an embodiment.34922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009

[0017] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a container having three straight divider portions extending halfway across the container and joining together at a center thereof to separate the storage area into three sections, according to an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a top plan view of a container having two straight divider portions extending across the container and intersecting at a center thereof to separate the storage area into four sections, according to an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of a container having five straight divider portions extending halfway across the container and joining together at a center thereof to separate the storage area into five sections, according to an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of a container having three straight divider portions extending across the container and intersecting at a center thereof to separate the storage area into six sections, according to an embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a container having seven straight divider portions extending halfway across the container and joining together at a center thereof to separate the storage area into seven sections, according to an embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a container having four straight divider portions extending across the container and intersecting at a center thereof to separate the storage area into eight sections, according to an embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 14 is a top plan view of a container having nine straight divider portions extending halfway across the container and joining together at a center thereof to separate the storage area into nine sections, according to an embodiment.44922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009

[0024] FIG. 15 is a top plan view of a container having five straight divider portions extending across the container and intersecting at a center thereof to separate the storage area into ten sections, according to an embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of a container having two substantially parallel curved dividers extending across the container and separating the storage area into three sections, according to an embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 17 is a top plan view of a container having two substantially parallel straight dividers extending across the container and separating the storage area into three sections, according to an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Before the present compositions, articles, devices, and / or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the aspects described below are not limited to specific methods as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0028] For purposes of reading the description of the various implementations below, the following descriptions of the sections of the Specification and their respective contents may be helpful:

[0029] FIGS. 1 and 2 is a perspective view and a top plan view, respectively, of a container 100 in which a divider 170 is employed and to be otherwise disposed within a storage area 200. The container 100 includes a bottom wall 110 and a sidewall 120 extending from the bottom wall 110 to define the storage area in which one or more powdered substances may be received and stored. The divider 170 is disposed within the storage area 200 and extends across the storage area to divide the interior of the container 100 into a first section 172 and a second section 174. In the54922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the divider 170 is formed having a double curvature, such that the divider 170 exhibits an S-shaped, sinusoidal, sigmoid, or double-bend profile when viewed from above. The container 100 may be embodied as a bottle, a tub, a cup, or another container configured to hold powdered substances including nutritional supplements, protein powders, and other granular materials.

[0030] The bottom wall 110 defines a perimeter 112 and provides a base surface upon which powdered substances rest within each of the first section 172 and the second section 174. The bottom wall 110 includes an inner surface 114 that faces the interior of the container 100 and is coupled to a bottom side of the divider 170. The sidewall 120 has a first end 122 coupled to and otherwise extending from the bottom wall 110 and an opposed second end 124 that defines an open upper extent of the container 100. The sidewall 120 extends upwardly from the perimeter 112 of the bottom wall 110 and circumscribes the storage area, thereby containing the powdered substances stored therein.

[0031] A rim 130 is disposed on the second end 124 of the sidewall 120. The rim 130 forms a lip or ridge at the upper circumference of the container 100 and provides a surface against which a cap (not illustrated) may seat to enclose the storage area. Threads 140 are disposed on an outer surface of the sidewall 120 below the rim 130 and are configured to threadingly engage the corresponding cap to selectively close the container 100. A bead 150 is provided on the sidewall 120 below the rim 130 region. The bead 150 extends circumferentially around the outer surface of the sidewall 120 and may serve as a retention feature or engagement interface in conjunction with a cap or closure member.

[0032] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, for example, the container 100 has a circular cross sectional area; however, it should be understood that the container cross section can be other shapes. For example, according to some embodiments, the container can be oval, square, rectangular, triangular, etc.64922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009

[0033] The divider 170 includes a first curved portion 180 and a second curved portion 190 that together define the double curvature of the divider 170. The first curved portion 180 has a first end 182 and a second end 184, and the second curved portion 190 has a first end 192 and a second end 194. The first end 182 of the first curved portion 180 is coupled to the first end 192 of the second curved portion 190 at a junction located within the interior of the container 100, such that the two curved portions join together to form a continuous divider structure. The second end 184 of the first curved portion 180 contacts and is formed integral with the sidewall 120 at one location along the inner circumference of the container 100, and the second end 194 of the second curved portion 190 contacts and is formed integral with the sidewall 120 at an opposing location along the inner circumference of the container 100. In a further embodiment, the divider 170 may be removable and reinsertable into the storage area rather than being integrally formed with the sidewall 120.

[0034] The first curved portion 180 faces the first section 172 on a first side 176 of the divider 170, and the second curved portion 190 faces the second section 174 on a second side 178 of the divider 170. The first curved portion 180 has a first curvature, and the second curved portion 190 has a second curvature. In one embodiment, the first curvature and the second curvature have a similar size and angle, such that both curved portions conform to a curvature of a single scoop. In some embodiments, the first curvature has a first size and a first angle and the second curvature has a second size and a second angle, where the first size and first angle differ from the second size and second angle. For example, the first curvature may be configured to fit a first scoop having a first angle and a first size, and the second curvature may be configured to fit a second scoop having a second angle and a second size. The conformance of the first curvature and the second curvature to respective scoop profiles facilitates retrieval of powdered substances by reducing gaps between a scoop and the surface of the divider 170, thereby guiding powder from each section into the scoop during a scooping operation.

[0035] According to a further embodiment, the divider 170 extends from the bottom wall 110 to the rim 130 of the sidewall 120, spanning the full height of the storage area. This full-height configuration of the divider 170 provides separation between the first section 172 and the second74922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009section 174 along the entire vertical extent of the container 100, which maintains distinct compartments for receiving different powdered substances on the first side 176 and the second side 178 of the divider 170.

[0036] According to some embodiments, the container 100 may be formed from a polymer material, a metal or alloy, glass, a ceramic material, or a composite material.

[0037] With specific reference to FIG. 2, the first curved portion 180 extends from the second end 184 at the sidewall 120 inwardly toward the center of the container 100, where the first end 182 of the first curved portion 180 meets the first end 192 of the second curved portion 190. The second curved portion 190 continues from this junction outwardly toward the opposing side of the sidewall 120, terminating at the second end 194 where the second curved portion 190 contacts the sidewall 120. The second end 184 and the second end 194 are located at diametrically opposed regions of the sidewall 120, such that the divider 170 spans across the storage area 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the first curved portion 180 curves concavely toward the first section 172 on the first side 176, and the second curved portion 190 curves concavely toward the second section 174 on the second side 178, together producing the double-curvature S-shaped profile of the divider 170 as observed from above.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first section 172 and the second section 174 are of equal size, as may be achieved when the first curvature of the first curved portion 180 and the second curvature of the second curved portion 190 are symmetric about a center point of the container 100. In a further embodiment, the first section 172 and the second section 174 have different sizes, which may be achieved by varying the respective curvatures, positions, or angular extents of the first curved portion 180 and the second curved portion 190. A first powdered substance may be disposed within the first section 172 on the first side 176 of the divider 170, and a second powdered substance may be disposed within the second section 174 on the second side 178 of the divider 170, such that the divider 170 maintains separation between the two powdered substances during storage and retrieval. The concave face of the first curved portion 180 presented to the first section84922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009172 and the concave face of the second curved portion 190 presented to the second section 174 each provide a surface against which a scoop may be drawn to collect powdered substance from the respective section, as the curvature of each portion conforms to a corresponding scoop profile to reduce gaps between the scoop and the divider 170 during a scooping operation.

[0039] FIG. 3 is a side view of the container 100 described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, illustrating, among other features, the threaded interface region of the container 100. The side view depicts the container 100 in elevation, revealing the vertical extent of the sidewall 120 extending from the bottom wall 110 at a lower region of the container 100 to the rim 130 at an upper region thereof. According to some embodiments, the container 100 has an overall height of 139.50 millimeters (mm), measured from the lowermost surface of the bottom wall 110 to the uppermost extent of the rim 130. In other embodiments, the container 100 may have a height in a range of 120 mm to 150 mm, 100 mm to 200 mm, 80 mm to 160 mm, 50 mm to 500 mm, or another range. The container 100 has a width, taken at the perimeter 112 of the bottom wall 110, of 116.34 mm, which corresponds to the outer diameter of the bottom wall 110 as annotated in FIG. 3. In other embodiments, the container 100 may have a width in a range of 100 mm to 130 mm, 50 mm to 200 mm, 30 mm to 500 mm, or another range. It should be understood that other sizes of the overall height and width may be utilized depending on the desired size.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the container 100 described with respect to FIGS.1 through 3, illustrating internal dimensional details of the container 100 including the height of the sidewall 120 and divider 170. The cross-sectional view is taken through the line 4 — 4 of FIG.1. The first end 122 of the sidewall 120 is coupled to the bottom wall 110 at the perimeter 112, and the sidewall 120 extends upwardly to the opposed second end 124 upon which the rim 130 is disposed. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the divider 170 extends in a vertical direction generally perpendicular to the bottom wall 110; however, it should be understood that the divider 170 can be otherwise angularly disposed with respect to the bottom wall 110. In addition, while the divider 170 is illustrated having a constant thickness, it should be understood that the divider 170 may have a varying thickness along its height.94922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009

[0041] FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a method 500 of retrieving a powdered substance from a container having a divider. The method 500 depicts a sequence of operations performed by a user to retrieve one or more powdered substances from the container 100 described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, leveraging the double-curvature profile of the divider 170 to facilitate controlled and accurate scooping of powder from the storage area 200.

[0042] The method 500 begins at step 510 where a container having a divider having a double curvature 510 is employed to advantage. At step 512 a user selects and accesses the container 100 having the divider 170 formed with the double curvature described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the user may remove a cap that threadingly engages the threads 140 on the outer surface of the sidewall 120 to expose the storage area 200. A first powdered substance is disposed on the first side 176 of the divider 170 within the first section 172, and a second powdered substance is disposed on the second side 178 of the divider 170 within the second section 174. The first powdered substance and the second powdered substance may each comprise a nutritional supplement, a protein powder, a dietary supplement, a food powder, a drink powder, or another granular or powdered material. For example, the first powdered substance may comprise whey protein and the second powdered substance may comprise creatine, peptides, or a plant-based protein powder, though other combinations of powdered substances are contemplated.

[0043] Following step 512, the method 500 proceeds to a retrieve a first powdered substance with a scoop. In carrying out step retrieve a first powdered substance, the user inserts the scoop into the first section 172 of the container 100 and collects the first powdered substance from the first side 176 of the divider 170. During the scooping operation, the user may draw the scoop against the first curved portion 180, and the conformance of the first curvature to the curvature of the scoop to reduce the gaps between the scoop and the surface of the divider 170, thereby guiding powder into the scoop and reducing spillage or underfilling of the scoop. The scoop may comprise a spoon, a ladle, a cup, or another scooping device configured for retrieving measured quantities of powdered substances.104922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009

[0044] According to a further embodiment, the method 500 can further optionally include retrieving the second powdered substance from the second section 174 of the container 100 with the scoop. In this operation, the user inserts the scoop into the second section 174 on the second side 178 of the divider 170 and draws the scoop against the second curved portion 190. A second portion of the double curvature, provided by the second curved portion 190, is configured to fit accommodate the curvature of the scoop, such that the second curvature conforms to the scoop profile and reduces gaps during retrieval of the second powdered substance. Where the first curvature and the second curvature have a similar size and angle, a single scoop may be used to retrieve powdered substances from both the first section 172 and the second section 174. According to embodiments disclosed herein, the powder in the first section 172 may have a first flavor and the powder in the second section 174 may have a second flavor. The powders can be used separately or if desired, and depending on the final flavor, mixed by the user. \

[0045] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment that includes no divider within the storage area. In contrast to the embodiment described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, in which the divider 170 partitions the storage area 200 into the first section 172 and the second section 174, the embodiment of FIG. 6 depicts the container 100 with an undivided interior. The container 100 retains the same structural body described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150. However, in the absence of a divider, the storage area defines a singular section 672 that occupies the entire interior volume bounded by the sidewall 120 and the bottom wall 110.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 6, the singular section 672 extends across the full cross-sectional area of the container 100 as viewed from above. The circular profile of the sidewall 120 circumscribes the singular section 672, and no internal partition or barrier subdivides the interior. The singular section 672 may receive and store a single powdered substance, such as a nutritional supplement, a protein powder, a dietary supplement, a food powder, a drink powder, or another granular material. In one embodiment, the container 100 of FIG. 6 is configured for use when storage of a single powdered substance is desired, rather than the multiple-substance storage arrangement114922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009facilitated by the divider 170 described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2. The embodiment of FIG. 6 illustrates that the container 100 may be provided with or without a divider, depending on the intended storage application, and provides a baseline configuration against which the divided embodiments of FIGS. 7 through 17 may be compared.

[0047] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment in which the divider 170 includes a singular straight portion 780 extending across the container 100 to separate the storage area into two sections. In contrast to the double-curvature embodiment described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, in which the divider 170 is formed with an S-shaped profile comprising the first curved portion 180 and the second curved portion 190, the embodiment of FIG. 7 depicts the divider 170 as having no curvature. The straight portion 780 extends linearly from a first location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 to a diametrically opposed second location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120, spanning the full diameter of the storage area. The container 100 retains the structural body described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 7, the straight portion 780 of the divider 170 partitions the storage area into a first section 772 and a second section 774. The first section 772 is disposed on one side of the divider 170 and the second section 774 is disposed on the opposite side of the divider 170. The first section 772 and the second section 774 each occupy a respective semicircular portion of the storage area as demarcated by the linear profile of the straight portion 780 and the inner circumference of the sidewall 120. In one embodiment, the first section 772 and the second section 774 are of equal size, with each section occupying one half of the total cross-sectional area of the storage area. In a further embodiment, the first section 772 and the second section 774 have different sizes. For example, the first section 772 may be twice the size of the second section 774, three times the size of the second section 774, 1.5 times the size of the second section 774, or may include other size relationships to the second section 774. Such different sizes may be achieved by positioning the straight portion 780 off-center relative to the diameter of the container 100, such that the divider 170 does not bisect the storage area into equal halves.124922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009

[0049] According to a further embodiment, a first powdered substance may be disposed within the first section 772 and a second powdered substance may be disposed within the second section 774, such that the divider 170 maintains separation between two different powdered substances during storage. The straight-wall configuration of the straight portion 780 provides a planar interface surface within the storage area against which a scoop or other retrieval implement may be positioned during powder retrieval. In some embodiments, the divider 170 of FIG. 7 is formed integral with the sidewall 120 at each end of the straight portion 780, with the bottom side of the divider 170 coupled to the bottom wall 110. In a further embodiment, the divider 170 may be removable and reinsertable into the storage area, consistent with the removable divider configuration described with respect to FIG. 1.

[0050] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment in which the divider 170 includes three straight portions extending halfway across the container 100 and joining together at a center thereof to separate the storage area into three sections. In contrast to the two-section straight divider embodiment described with respect to FIG. 7, in which a singular straight portion 780 extends across the full diameter of the storage area, the embodiment of FIG. 8 employs three radially-oriented straight portions that converge at a central junction point within the container 100. The divider 170 comprises a first straight portion 880, a second straight portion 882, and a third straight portion 884, each of which extends from the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 inwardly to a common meeting point located at or near the center of the storage area. The container 100 retains the structural body described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 8, the first straight portion 880, the second straight portion 882, and the third straight portion 884 are arranged in a radial configuration emanating from the central junction point of the divider 170. Each straight portion extends linearly from the central junction point outwardly to a respective location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120, where each straight portion terminates at and contacts the sidewall 120. The three straight portions are angularly spaced about the central junction point, and the angular separation between adjacent134922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009straight portions defines the angular extent of each of the three sections formed within the storage area. The bottom side of each of the first straight portion 880, the second straight portion 882, and the third straight portion 884 is coupled to the bottom wall 110, and each straight portion extends upwardly from the bottom wall 110 toward the rim 130.

[0052] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, each of the first section 872, the second section 874, and the third section 876 thus forms a wedge-shaped compartment when viewed from above, with the apex of each wedge located at the central junction point and the curved base of each wedge defined by a segment of the sidewall 120.

[0053] In one embodiment, the first section 872, the second section 874, and the third section 876 are of equal size, which may be achieved when the first straight portion 880, the second straight portion 882, and the third straight portion 884 are angularly spaced at intervals of 120 degrees about the central junction point. In a further embodiment, the sections have different sizes, which may be achieved by varying the angular spacing between adjacent straight portions such that one or more sections occupy a larger angular extent than the remaining sections. For example, the first section 872 may occupy a larger angular extent than each of the second section 874 and the third section 876, resulting in the first section 872 having a greater cross-sectional area than the other two sections.

[0054] According to a further embodiment, a first powdered substance may be disposed within the first section 872, a second powdered substance may be disposed within the second section 874, and a third powdered substance may be disposed within the third section 876, such that the divider 170 maintains separation among three different powdered substances during storage and retrieval. Each of the three sections provides an individual compartment accessible through the open top of the container 100 when a cap is removed from the threads 140. In some embodiments, the divider 170 of FIG. 8 is formed integral with the sidewall 120 at each termination point, with the first straight portion 880, the second straight portion 882, and the third straight portion 884 integrally joined to one another at the central junction point. In a further embodiment, the divider 170 may144922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009be removable and reinsertable into the storage area, consistent with the removable divider configuration described with respect to FIG. 1.

[0055] FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment in which the divider 170 includes two straight portions extending across the container 100 and intersecting at a center thereof to separate the storage area into four sections. In contrast to the three-section embodiment described with respect to FIG. 8, in which three straight portions extend halfway across the container and converge at a central junction point, the embodiment of FIG. 9 employs two fulldiameter straight portions that cross one another at the center of the storage area. The divider 170 comprises a first straight portion 980 and a second straight portion 982, each of which extends linearly from a first location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 to a diametrically opposed second location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120. The first straight portion 980 and the second straight portion 982 intersect at or near the geometric center of the storage area, forming a cross-shaped divider configuration when viewed from above. The container 100 retains the structural body described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 9, the first straight portion 980 extends horizontally across the container 100, spanning the full inner diameter of the sidewall 120, and the second straight portion 982 extends vertically across the container 100, likewise spanning the full inner diameter of the sidewall 120. The first straight portion 980 and the second straight portion 982 are oriented at an angle relative to one another, and in the depicted embodiment the two straight portions are disposed in a configuration where they intersect to form four quadrant-shaped regions within the storage area. Each of the first straight portion 980 and the second straight portion 982 terminates at opposing locations on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120, where each straight portion contacts and is coupled to the sidewall 120. The bottom side of each of the first straight portion 980 and the second straight portion 982 is coupled to the bottom wall 110, and each straight portion extends upwardly from the bottom wall 110 toward the rim 130.154922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009

[0057] The divider 170 of FIG. 9 partitions the storage area into a first section 972, a second section 974, a third section 976, and a fourth section 978. Each of the four sections is bounded by adjacent segments of the first straight portion 980 and the second straight portion 982 extending from the central intersection point to the sidewall 120, together with the arc of the sidewall 120 extending between the respective termination points of those two segments. The second section 974 is disposed in an upper-left quadrant of the storage area as viewed from above, the third section 976 is disposed in an upper-right quadrant, the first section 972 is disposed in a lower-left quadrant, and the fourth section 978 is disposed in a lower-right quadrant. Each of the four sections thus forms a quadrant-shaped compartment when viewed from above, with the apex of each quadrant located at the central intersection point of the first straight portion 980 and the second straight portion 982 and the curved base of each quadrant defined by a segment of the sidewall 120.

[0058] In one embodiment, the first section 972, the second section 974, the third section 976, and the fourth section 978 are of equal size, which may be achieved when the first straight portion 980 and the second straight portion 982 intersect at right angles and the intersection point coincides with the geometric center of the storage area. In a further embodiment, the four sections have different sizes, which may be achieved by varying the angular relationship between the first straight portion 980 and the second straight portion 982 such that the angle between adjacent segments is not 90 degrees, or by displacing the intersection point from the geometric center of the container 100. For example, one section may be larger than another by a selected ratio, such as twice the size, three times the size, or 1.5 times the size.

[0059] According to a further embodiment, a first powdered substance may be disposed within the first section 972, a second powdered substance may be disposed within the second section 974, a third powdered substance may be disposed within the third section 976, and a fourth powdered substance may be disposed within the fourth section 978, such that the divider 170 maintains separation among four different powdered substances during storage and retrieval. Each of the four sections provides an individual compartment accessible through the open top of the container 100 when a cap is removed from the threads 140. In some embodiments, the divider 170 of FIG. 9 is164922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009formed integral with the sidewall 120 at each termination point, with the first straight portion 980 and the second straight portion 982 integrally j oined to one another at the central intersection point. In a further embodiment, the divider 170 may be removable and reinsertable into the storage area, consistent with the removable divider configuration described with respect to FIG. 1.

[0060] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment in which the divider 170 includes five straight portions extending halfway across the container 100 and joining together at a center thereof to separate the storage area into five sections. In contrast to the four-section embodiment described with respect to FIG. 9, in which two full-diameter straight portions intersect at the center of the storage area, the embodiment of FIG. 10 employs five radially-oriented straight portions that converge at a central junction point within the container 100. The divider 170 comprises a straight portion 1080, a straight portion 1082, a straight portion 1084, a straight portion 1086, and a straight portion 1088, each of which extends from the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 inwardly to a common meeting point located at or near the center of the storage area. The container 100 retains the structural body described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 10, the straight portion 1080, the straight portion 1082, the straight portion 1084, the straight portion 1086, and the straight portion 1088 are arranged in a radial configuration emanating from the central junction point of the divider 170. Each straight portion extends linearly from the central junction point outwardly to a respective location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120, where each straight portion terminates at and contacts the sidewall 120. The five straight portions are angularly spaced about the central junction point, and the angular separation between adjacent straight portions defines the angular extent of each of the five sections formed within the storage area. The bottom side of each of the five straight portions is coupled to the bottom wall 110, and each straight portion extends upwardly from the bottom wall 110 toward the rim 130.174922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009

[0062] The divider 170 of FIG. 10 partitions the storage area into a section 1068, a section 1072, a section 1074, a section 1076, and a section 1078. Each of the five sections is bounded by two adjacent straight portions extending from the central junction point to the sidewall 120, together with the arc of the sidewall 120 extending between the respective termination points of those two straight portions. The section 1072 is disposed in a lower-left region of the storage area as viewed from above, bounded by the straight portion 1080 and the straight portion 1088. The section 1074 is disposed in an upper-left region, bounded by the straight portion 1080 and the straight portion 1082. The section 1076 is disposed in an upper-right region, bounded by the straight portion 1084 and the straight portion 1082. The section 1078 is disposed in a right region, bounded by the straight portion 1086 and the straight portion 1084. The section 1068 is disposed in a lower region, bounded by the straight portion 1088 and the straight portion 1086. Each of the five sections thus forms a wedge-shaped compartment when viewed from above, with the apex of each wedge located at the central junction point and the curved base of each wedge defined by a segment of the sidewall 120.

[0063] In one embodiment, the section 1068, the section 1072, the section 1074, the section 1076, and the section 1078 are of equal size, which may be achieved when the five straight portions are angularly spaced at intervals of 72 degrees about the central junction point. In a further embodiment, the five sections have different sizes, which may be achieved by varying the angular spacing between adjacent straight portions such that one or more sections occupy a larger angular extent than the remaining sections. For example, one section may be larger than another by a selected ratio, such as twice the size, three times the size, or 1.5 times the size.

[0064] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment in which the divider 170 includes three straight portions extending across the container 100 and intersecting at a center thereof to separate the storage area into six sections. In contrast to the five-section embodiment described with respect to FIG. 10, in which five straight portions extend halfway across the container and converge at a central junction point, the embodiment of FIG. 11 employs three fulldiameter straight portions that cross one another at the center of the storage area. The divider 170184922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009comprises a straight portion 1180, a straight portion 1182, and a straight portion 1184, each of which extends linearly from a first location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 to a diametrically opposed second location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120. The straight portion 1180, the straight portion 1182, and the straight portion 1184 intersect at or near the geometric center of the storage area, forming a six-pointed radial divider configuration when viewed from above. The container 100 retains the structural body described with respect to FIGS.1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 11, the straight portion 1180 extends across the container 100 from a location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 at the left side of the storage area to a diametrically opposed location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 at the right side of the storage area, spanning the full inner diameter thereof. The straight portion 1182 extends across the container 100 at an angle relative to the straight portion 1180, likewise spanning the full inner diameter of the sidewall 120. The straight portion 1184 extends across the container 100 at an angle relative to both the straight portion 1180 and the straight portion 1182, spanning the full inner diameter of the sidewall 120. The three straight portions are angularly spaced about the central intersection point, and each straight portion terminates at opposing locations on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 where each straight portion contacts and is coupled to the sidewall 120. The bottom side of each of the straight portion 1180, the straight portion 1182, and the straight portion 1184 is coupled to the bottom wall 110, and each straight portion extends upwardly from the bottom wall 110 toward the rim 130.

[0066] The divider 170 of FIG. 11 partitions the storage area into a section 1166, a section 1168, a section 1172, a section 1174, a section 1176, and a section 1178. Each of the six sections is bounded by adjacent segments of two of the three straight portions extending from the central intersection point to the sidewall 120, together with the arc of the sidewall 120 extending between the respective termination points of those two segments. The section 1166 is disposed in a right region of the storage area as viewed from above, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1180194922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009and the straight portion 1184. The section 1168 is disposed in a lower-right region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1180 and the straight portion 1184 on the opposite side of the central intersection point from the section 1166. The section 1172 is disposed in a lower-left region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1180 and the straight portion 1182. The section 1174 is disposed in a left region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1180 and the straight portion 1182 on the opposite side of the central intersection point from the section 1172. The section 1176 is disposed in an upper-left region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1182 and the straight portion 1184. The section 1178 is disposed in an upper-right region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1182 and the straight portion 1184 on the opposite side of the central intersection point from the section 1176. Each of the six sections thus forms a wedge-shaped compartment when viewed from above, with the apex of each wedge located at the central intersection point and the curved base of each wedge defined by a segment of the sidewall 120.

[0067] In one embodiment, the section 1166, the section 1168, the section 1172, the section 1174, the section 1176, and the section 1178 are of equal size, which may be achieved when the straight portion 1180, the straight portion 1182, and the straight portion 1184 are angularly spaced at intervals of 60 degrees about the central intersection point, such that each section occupies an equal angular extent of the storage area. In a further embodiment, the six sections have different sizes, which may be achieved by varying the angular relationship among the straight portion 1180, the straight portion 1182, and the straight portion 1184 such that the angles between adjacent segments are not all 60 degrees, or by displacing the intersection point from the geometric center of the container 100. For example, one section may be larger than another by a selected ratio, such as twice the size, three times the size, or 1.5 times the size.

[0068] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment in which the divider 170 includes seven straight portions extending halfway across the container 100 and joining together at a center thereof to separate the storage area into seven sections. In contrast to the six-section embodiment described with respect to FIG. 11, in which three full-diameter straight portions intersect at the center of the storage area, the embodiment of FIG. 12 employs seven radially-204922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009oriented straight portions that converge at a central junction point within the container 100. The divider 170 comprises a straight portion 1280, a straight portion 1282, a straight portion 1284, a straight portion 1286, a straight portion 1288, a straight portion 1290, and a straight portion 1292, each of which extends from the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 inwardly to a common meeting point located at or near the center of the storage area. The container 100 retains the structural body described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 12, the straight portion 1280, the straight portion 1282, the straight portion 1284, the straight portion 1286, the straight portion 1288, the straight portion 1290, and the straight portion 1292 are arranged in a radial configuration emanating from the central junction point of the divider 170. Each straight portion extends linearly from the central junction point outwardly to a respective location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120, where each straight portion terminates at and contacts the sidewall 120. The seven straight portions are angularly spaced about the central junction point, and the angular separation between adjacent straight portions defines the angular extent of each of the seven sections formed within the storage area. The bottom side of each of the seven straight portions is coupled to the bottom wall 110, and each straight portion extends upwardly from the bottom wall 110 toward the rim 130.

[0070] The divider 170 of FIG. 12 partitions the storage area into a section 1264, a section 1266, a section 1268, a section 1272, a section 1274, a section 1276, and a section 1278. Each of the seven sections is bounded by two adjacent straight portions extending from the central junction point to the sidewall 120, together with the arc of the sidewall 120 extending between the respective termination points of those two straight portions. The section 1264 is disposed in a right region of the storage area as viewed from above, bounded by the straight portion 1286 and the straight portion 1288. The section 1266 is disposed in a lower-right region, bounded by the straight portion 1288 and the straight portion 1290. The section 1268 is disposed in a lower region, bounded by the straight portion 1290 and the straight portion 1292. The section 1272 is disposed in a lower-left region, bounded by the straight portion 1292 and the straight portion 1280. The section 1274214922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009is disposed in an upper-left region, bounded by the straight portion 1280 and the straight portion 1282. The section 1276 is disposed in an upper region, bounded by the straight portion 1282 and the straight portion 1284. The section 1278 is disposed in an upper-right region, bounded by the straight portion 1284 and the straight portion 1286. Each of the seven sections thus forms a wedge-shaped compartment when viewed from above, with the apex of each wedge located at the central junction point and the curved base of each wedge defined by a segment of the sidewall 120.

[0071] In one embodiment, the section 1264, the section 1266, the section 1268, the section 1272, the section 1274, the section 1276, and the section 1278 are of equal size, which may be achieved when the seven straight portions are angularly spaced at intervals of approximately 51.4 degrees about the central junction point, such that each section occupies an equal angular extent of the storage area. In a further embodiment, the seven sections have different sizes, which may be achieved by varying the angular spacing between adjacent straight portions such that one or more sections occupy a larger angular extent than the remaining sections. For example, one section may be larger than another by a selected ratio, such as twice the size, three times the size, or 1.5 times the size.

[0072] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment in which the divider 170 includes four straight portions extending across the container 100 and intersecting at a center thereof to separate the storage area into eight sections. In contrast to the seven-section embodiment described with respect to FIG. 12, in which seven straight portions extend halfway across the container and converge at a central junction point, the embodiment of FIG. 13 employs four fulldiameter straight portions that cross one another at the center of the storage area. The divider 170 comprises a straight portion 1380, a straight portion 1382, a straight portion 1384, and a straight portion 1386, each of which extends linearly from a first location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 to a diametrically opposed second location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120. The straight portion 1380, the straight portion 1382, the straight portion 1384, and the straight portion 1386 intersect at or near the geometric center of the storage area, forming an eight-pointed radial divider configuration when viewed from above. The container 100 retains the224922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009structural body described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 13, the straight portion 1380 extends across the container 100 from a location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 to a diametrically opposed location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120, spanning the full inner diameter thereof. The straight portion 1382 extends across the container 100 at an angle relative to the straight portion 1380, likewise spanning the full inner diameter of the sidewall 120. The straight portion 1384 extends across the container 100 at an angle relative to both the straight portion 1380 and the straight portion 1382, spanning the full inner diameter of the sidewall 120. The straight portion 1386 extends across the container 100 at an angle relative to each of the straight portion 1380, the straight portion 1382, and the straight portion 1384, spanning the full inner diameter of the sidewall 120. The four straight portions are angularly spaced about the central intersection point, and each straight portion terminates at opposing locations on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 where each straight portion contacts and is coupled to the sidewall 120. The bottom side of each of the straight portion 1380, the straight portion 1382, the straight portion 1384, and the straight portion 1386 is coupled to the bottom wall 110, and each straight portion extends upwardly from the bottom wall 110 toward the rim 130.

[0074] The divider 170 of FIG. 13 partitions the storage area into a section 1362, a section 1364, a section 1366, a section 1368, a section 1372, a section 1374, a section 1376, and a section 1378. Each of the eight sections is bounded by adjacent segments of two of the four straight portions extending from the central intersection point to the sidewall 120, together with the arc of the sidewall 120 extending between the respective termination points of those two segments. The section 1362 is disposed in a right region of the storage area as viewed from above, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1384 and the straight portion 1386. The section 1364 is disposed in a lower-right region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1386 and the straight portion 1380. The section 1366 is disposed in a lower region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1380 and the straight portion 1382 on a lower side of the central intersection point. The section234922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-20091368 is disposed in a lower-left region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1382 and the straight portion 1380. The section 1372 is disposed in a left region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1380 and the straight portion 1382 on an upper side of the central intersection point. The section 1374 is disposed in an upper-left region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1380 and the straight portion 1382. The section 1376 is disposed in an upper region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1382 and the straight portion 1384. The section 1378 is disposed in an upper-right region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1384 and the straight portion 1386. Each of the eight sections thus forms a wedge-shaped compartment when viewed from above, with the apex of each wedge located at the central intersection point and the curved base of each wedge defined by a segment of the sidewall 120.

[0075] In one embodiment, the section 1362, the section 1364, the section 1366, the section 1368, the section 1372, the section 1374, the section 1376, and the section 1378 are of equal size, which may be achieved when the straight portion 1380, the straight portion 1382, the straight portion 1384, and the straight portion 1386 are angularly spaced at intervals of 45 degrees about the central intersection point, such that each section occupies an equal angular extent of the storage area. In a further embodiment, the eight sections have different sizes, which may be achieved by varying the angular relationship among the straight portion 1380, the straight portion 1382, the straight portion 1384, and the straight portion 1386 such that the angles between adjacent segments are not all 45 degrees, or by displacing the intersection point from the geometric center of the container 100. For example, one section may be larger than another by a selected ratio, such as twice the size, three times the size, or 1.5 times the size.

[0076]

[0077] FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment in which the divider 170 includes nine straight portions extending halfway across the container 100 and joining together at a center thereof to separate the storage area into nine sections. In contrast to the eight-section embodiment described with respect to FIG. 13, in which four full-diameter straight portions244922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009intersect at the center of the storage area, the embodiment of FIG. 14 employs nine radially-oriented straight portions that converge at a central junction point within the container 100. The divider 170 comprises a straight portion 1480, a straight portion 1482, a straight portion 1484, a straight portion 1486, a straight portion 1488, a straight portion 1490, a straight portion 1492, a straight portion 1494, and a straight portion 1496, each of which extends from the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 inwardly to a common meeting point located at or near the center of the storage area. The container 100 retains the structural body described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 14, the straight portion 1480, the straight portion 1482, the straight portion 1484, the straight portion 1486, the straight portion 1488, the straight portion 1490, the straight portion 1492, the straight portion 1494, and the straight portion 1496 are arranged in a radial configuration emanating from the central junction point of the divider 170. Each straight portion extends linearly from the central junction point outwardly to a respective location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120, where each straight portion terminates at and contacts the sidewall 120. The nine straight portions are angularly spaced about the central junction point, and the angular separation between adjacent straight portions defines the angular extent of each of the nine sections formed within the storage area. The bottom side of each of the nine straight portions is coupled to the bottom wall 110, and each straight portion extends upwardly from the bottom wall 110 toward the rim 130.

[0079] The divider 170 of FIG. 14 partitions the storage area into a section 1460, a section 1462, a section 1464, a section 1466, a section 1468, a section 1472, a section 1474, a section 1476, and a section 1478. Each of the nine sections is bounded by two adjacent straight portions extending from the central junction point to the sidewall 120, together with the arc of the sidewall 120 extending between the respective termination points of those two straight portions. The section 1460 is disposed in an upper-right region of the storage area as viewed from above, bounded by the straight portion 1486 and the straight portion 1484. The section 1462 is disposed in a right254922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009region, bounded by the straight portion 1488 and the straight portion 1486. The section 1464 is disposed in a lower-right region, bounded by the straight portion 1490 and the straight portion 1488. The section 1466 is disposed in a lower region, bounded by the straight portion 1492 and the straight portion 1490. The section 1468 is disposed in a lower-left region, bounded by the straight portion 1494 and the straight portion 1492. The section 1472 is disposed in a left region, bounded by the straight portion 1496 and the straight portion 1494. The section 1474 is disposed in an upper-left region, bounded by the straight portion 1480 and the straight portion 1496. The section 1476 is disposed in an upper region, bounded by the straight portion 1482 and the straight portion 1480. The section 1478 is disposed between the section 1476 and the section 1460, bounded by the straight portion 1484 and the straight portion 1482. Each of the nine sections thus forms a wedge-shaped compartment when viewed from above, with the apex of each wedge located at the central junction point and the curved base of each wedge defined by a segment of the sidewall 120.

[0080] In one embodiment, the section 1460, the section 1462, the section 1464, the section 1466, the section 1468, the section 1472, the section 1474, the section 1476, and the section 1478 are of equal size, which may be achieved when the nine straight portions are angularly spaced at intervals of 40 degrees about the central junction point, such that each section occupies an equal angular extent of the storage area. In a further embodiment, the nine sections have different sizes, which may be achieved by varying the angular spacing between adjacent straight portions such that one or more sections occupy a larger angular extent than the remaining sections. For example, one section may be larger than another by a selected ratio, such as twice the size, three times the size, or 1.5 times the size.

[0081] FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment in which the divider 170 includes five straight portions extending across the container 100 and intersecting at a center thereof to separate the storage area into ten sections. In contrast to the nine-section embodiment described with respect to FIG. 14, in which nine straight portions extend halfway across the container and converge at a central junction point, the embodiment of FIG. 15 employs five full-264922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009diameter straight portions that cross one another at the center of the storage area. The divider 170 comprises a straight portion 1580, a straight portion 1582, a straight portion 1584, a straight portion 1586, and a straight portion 1588, each of which extends linearly from a first location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 to a diametrically opposed second location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120. The straight portion 1580, the straight portion 1582, the straight portion 1584, the straight portion 1586, and the straight portion 1588 intersect at or near the geometric center of the storage area, forming a ten-pointed radial divider configuration when viewed from above. The container 100 retains the structural body described with respect to FIGS.1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 15, the straight portion 1580 extends across the container 100 from a location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 to a diametrically opposed location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120, spanning the full inner diameter thereof. The straight portion 1582 extends across the container 100 at an angle relative to the straight portion 1580, likewise spanning the full inner diameter of the sidewall 120. The straight portion 1584 extends across the container 100 at an angle relative to both the straight portion 1580 and the straight portion 1582, spanning the full inner diameter of the sidewall 120. The straight portion 1586 extends across the container 100 at an angle relative to each of the straight portion 1580, the straight portion 1582, and the straight portion 1584, spanning the full inner diameter of the sidewall 120. The straight portion 1588 extends across the container 100 at an angle relative to each of the other four straight portions, spanning the full inner diameter of the sidewall 120. The five straight portions are angularly spaced about the central intersection point, and each straight portion terminates at opposing locations on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 where each straight portion contacts and is coupled to the sidewall 120. The bottom side of each of the straight portion 1580, the straight portion 1582, the straight portion 1584, the straight portion 1586, and the straight portion 1588 is coupled to the bottom wall 110, and each straight portion extends upwardly from the bottom wall 110 toward the rim 130.274922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009

[0083] The divider 170 of FIG. 15 partitions the storage area into a section 1558, a section 1560, a section 1562, a section 1564, a section 1566, a section 1568, a section 1572, a section 1574, a section 1576, and a section 1578. Each of the ten sections is bounded by adjacent segments of two of the five straight portions extending from the central intersection point to the sidewall 120, together with the arc of the sidewall 120 extending between the respective termination points of those two segments. The section 1558 is disposed in an upper-right region of the storage area as viewed from above, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1584 and the straight portion 1586. The section 1560 is disposed in a right region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1586 and the straight portion 1588. The section 1562 is disposed in a lower-right region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1588 and the straight portion 1580. The section 1564 is disposed in a lower region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1580 and the straight portion 1582 on a lower side of the central intersection point. The section 1566 is disposed in a lower-left region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1580 and the straight portion 1582. The section 1568 is disposed in a left region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1580 and the straight portion 1582 on an upper side of the central intersection point. The section 1572 is disposed in an upper-left region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1580 and the straight portion 1582. The section 1574 is disposed between the section 1572 and the section 1576, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1580 and the straight portion 1582. The section 1576 is disposed in an upper region, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1582 and the straight portion 1584. The section 1578 is disposed between the section 1576 and the section 1558, bounded by segments of the straight portion 1584 and the straight portion 1586. Each of the ten sections thus forms a wedge-shaped compartment when viewed from above, with the apex of each wedge located at the central intersection point and the curved base of each wedge defined by a segment of the sidewall 120.

[0084] In one embodiment, the section 1558, the section 1560, the section 1562, the section 1564, the section 1566, the section 1568, the section 1572, the section 1574, the section 1576, and the section 1578 are of equal size, which may be achieved when the straight portion 1580, the straight portion 1582, the straight portion 1584, the straight portion 1586, and the straight portion 1588 are 284922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009angularly spaced at intervals of 36 degrees about the central intersection point, such that each section occupies an equal angular extent of the storage area. In a further embodiment, the ten sections have different sizes, which may be achieved by varying the angular relationship among the straight portion 1580, the straight portion 1582, the straight portion 1584, the straight portion 1586, and the straight portion 1588 such that the angles between adjacent segments are not all 36 degrees, or by displacing the intersection point from the geometric center of the container 100. For example, one section may be larger than another by a selected ratio, such as twice the size, three times the size, or 1.5 times the size. In other embodiments, the divider 170 forms eleven or more sections within the container 100, following the same radial divider arrangement with additional straight portions converging at or intersecting at the center of the storage area.

[0085] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment in which two curved dividers are disposed within the storage area to separate the storage area into three sections. In contrast to the single-divider embodiments described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2 and the straightdivider embodiments described with respect to FIGS. 7 through 15, the embodiment of FIG. 16 employs a plurality of curved dividers arranged within the storage area. The container 100 includes a first curved divider 1670 and a second curved divider 1672, each of which extends across the container 100 from a first location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 to an opposing second location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120. Each of the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 has a double curvature, such that each divider exhibits an S-shaped, sinusoidal, sigmoid, or double-bend profile when viewed from above, consistent with the double-curvature divider geometry described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2. The container 100 retains the structural body described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 16, the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 are disposed in a substantially parallel orientation relative to one another within the storage area. Each of the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 spans across the full diameter of the storage area, with opposed ends of each divider contacting and coupled to the sidewall 120294922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009at respective locations along the inner circumference thereof. The first curved divider 1670 is positioned in a lower region of the storage area as viewed from above, and the second curved divider 1672 is positioned in an upper region of the storage area, with the two dividers spaced apart from one another across the interior of the container 100. The double-curvature profile of each divider produces a pair of opposed concave surfaces on each divider, with each concave surface facing a respective section of the storage area. The bottom side of each of the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 is coupled to the bottom wall 110, and each divider extends upwardly from the bottom wall 110 toward the rim 130.

[0087] The first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 cooperate to partition the storage area into a section 1660, a section 1662, and a section 1664. The section 1660 is disposed in a lower region of the storage area as viewed from above, bounded by the first curved divider 1670 and the arc of the sidewall 120 extending below the first curved divider 1670. The section 1662 is disposed in a central region of the storage area between the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672, bounded on one side by the first curved divider 1670 and on the opposite side by the second curved divider 1672, with lateral boundaries defined by segments of the sidewall 120. The section 1664 is disposed in an upper region of the storage area, bounded by the second curved divider 1672 and the arc of the sidewall 120 extending above the second curved divider 1672. Each of the three sections thus provides an individual compartment within the container 100 configured to receive and store a respective powdered substance.

[0088] In one embodiment, the section 1660, the section 1662, and the section 1664 are of equal size. In a further embodiment, the three sections have different sizes, which may be achieved by varying the spacing between the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 or by varying the position of each divider relative to the geometric center of the container 100. For example, one section may be larger than another by a selected ratio, such as twice the size, three times the size, or 1.5 times the size. The double-curvature profile of each of the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 provides concave surfaces facing into adjacent sections,304922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009which conform to a curvature of a scoop in the manner described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, thereby facilitating retrieval of powdered substances from each of the three sections.

[0089] According to a further embodiment, the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 are disposed in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to one another, rather than the substantially parallel orientation depicted in FIG. 16. In yet a further embodiment, the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 are disposed diagonally relative to one another. In other embodiments, the container 100 may have three or more curved dividers, each having a double curvature and extending across the storage area to form additional sections within the container 100. Each of the three sections provides an individual compartment accessible through the open top of the container 100 when a cap is removed from the threads 140. In some embodiments, the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 are formed integral with the sidewall 120 at each termination point. In a further embodiment, one or both of the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 may be removable and reinsertable into the storage area, consistent with the removable divider configuration described with respect to FIG. 1.

[0090] FIG. 17 is a top plan view of the container 100 in an embodiment in which two straight dividers are disposed within the storage area to separate the storage area into three sections. In contrast to the two-curved-divider embodiment described with respect to FIG. 16, in which the first curved divider 1670 and the second curved divider 1672 each have a double curvature, the embodiment of FIG. 17 employs a pair of straight dividers that extend linearly across the container 100. The container 100 includes a first straight divider 1770 and a second straight divider 1772, each of which extends across the container 100 from a first location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 to an opposing second location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120. Each of the first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 has a planar, linear profile when viewed from above, in contrast to the S-shaped double-curvature profile of the curved dividers described with respect to FIG. 16. The container 100 retains the structural body described314922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, including the bottom wall 110, the sidewall 120, the rim 130, the threads 140, and the bead 150.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 17, the first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 are disposed in a substantially parallel orientation relative to one another within the storage area. The first straight divider 1770 is positioned in a lower region of the storage area as viewed from above, extending linearly from a location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 at one side of the container 100 to a location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 at the opposing side of the container 100. The second straight divider 1772 is positioned in an upper region of the storage area, likewise extending linearly across the full width of the storage area from one location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120 to an opposing location on the inner circumference of the sidewall 120. The first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 are spaced apart from one another across the interior of the container 100, such that the two dividers do not intersect. The bottom side of each of the first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 is coupled to the bottom wall 110, and each divider extends upwardly from the bottom wall 110 toward the rim 130.

[0092] The first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 cooperate to partition the storage area into a section 1760, a section 1762, and a section 1764. The section 1760 is disposed in a lower region of the storage area as viewed from above, bounded by the first straight divider 1770 and the arc of the sidewall 120 extending below the first straight divider 1770. The section 1762 is disposed in a central region of the storage area between the first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772, bounded on one side by the first straight divider 1770 and on the opposite side by the second straight divider 1772, with lateral boundaries defined by segments of the sidewall 120 extending between the respective termination points of the two dividers. The section 1764 is disposed in an upper region of the storage area, bounded by the second straight divider 1772 and the arc of the sidewall 120 extending above the second straight divider 1772. Each of the three sections thus provides an individual compartment within the container 100 configured to receive and store a respective powdered substance.324922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009

[0093] In one embodiment, the section 1760, the section 1762, and the section 1764 are of equal size. In a further embodiment, the three sections have different sizes, which may be achieved by varying the spacing between the first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 or by varying the position of each divider relative to the geometric center of the container 100. For example, one section may be larger than another by a selected ratio, such as twice the size, three times the size, or 1.5 times the size. The planar surfaces of each of the first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 provide flat interface surfaces within the storage area against which a scoop or other retrieval implement may be positioned during powder retrieval from each of the three sections.

[0094] According to a further embodiment, the first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 are disposed in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to one another, rather than the substantially parallel orientation depicted in FIG. 17. In yet a further embodiment, the first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 are disposed diagonally relative to one another. In other embodiments, the container 100 may have three or more straight dividers that are substantially parallel, diagonal, or perpendicular to each other, each extending across the storage area to form additional sections within the container 100. A respective powdered substance may be disposed within each of the section 1760, the section 1762, and the section 1764, such that the first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 maintain separation among three different powdered substances during storage and retrieval. Each of the three sections provides an individual compartment accessible through the open top of the container 100 when a cap is removed from the threads 140. In some embodiments, the first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 are formed integral with the sidewall 120 at each termination point. In a further embodiment, one or both of the first straight divider 1770 and the second straight divider 1772 may be removable and reinsertable into the storage area, consistent with the removable divider configuration described with respect to FIG. 1.334922-7136-9631.1

Claims

Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-2009CLAIMS1. A container, comprising:a bottom wall;a sidewall extending from the bottom wall and defining a storage area; anda divider wall disposed within the storage area and extending across the storage area, the divider wall dividing the storage area into a first section on a first side of the divider wall and a second section on a second side of the divider wall,wherein the divider wall comprises a first curved portion and a second curved portion, the first curved portion having a first curvature and the second curved portion having a second curvature, such that the divider wall has a double curvature, wherein the first curved portion faces the first section and the second curved portion faces the second section.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the first curvature and the second curvature have a substantially similar size and angle.

3. The container of claim 1 , wherein the first curvature has a first size and a first angle and the second curvature has a second size and a second angle, the first size being different from the second size.

4. The container of claim 1, wherein a first end of the first curved portion is coupled to a first end of the second curved portion at a junction within the storage area, and wherein a second end of the first curved portion contacts the sidewall and a second end of the second curved portion contacts the sidewall.

5. The container of claim 1 , wherein the divider wall extends from the bottom wall to a rim disposed on an upper end of the sidewall.

6. The container of claim 1, wherein the divider wall is removable from and reinsertable into the storage area.

7. The container of claim 1, wherein the sidewall forms a circular storage area.344922-7136-9631.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 640570-20098. The container of claim 1, further comprising a second divider wall disposed within the storage area, the second divider wall having a double curvature and extending across the storage area, the divider wall and the second divider wall together dividing the storage area into at least three sections.

9. The container of claim 8, wherein the divider wall and the second divider wall are substantially parallel to each other.

10. A container, comprising:a bottom wall;a sidewall extending from the bottom wall and defining a storage area; anda divider wall disposed within the storage area and extending across the storage area, the divider wall dividing the storage area into at least two sections, wherein the divider wall comprises at least one straight portion extending from a location on the sidewall to a second location on the sidewall or to a central junction point within the storage area.

11. The container of claim 10, wherein the divider wall includes a singular straight portion extending across the storage area from a first location on the sidewall to a diametrically opposed second location on the sidewall, dividing the storage area into two sections.

12. The container of claim 11, wherein the divider wall includes a plurality of straight portions extending halfway across the storage area and joining together at a central junction point, dividing the storage area into three or more sections.

13. The container of claim 12, wherein the divider wall includes a plurality of straight portions extending across the storage area and intersecting at a center of the storage area, dividing the storage area into four or more sections.

14. The container of 10, wherein the at least two sections are of different sizes.

15. The container of claim 10 wherein the divider wall is removable from and reinsertable into the storage area.354922-7136-9631.1

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