Cap and container assemblies

A cap and container assembly includes a container having a base and a side wall extending upward from the base. The base and the side wall define an interior, and the side wall defines an opening leading to the interior. A cap moves with respect to the container between an opened position in which the opening is exposed, and a closed position in which the cap covers the opening. A tab projects outward from the cap and has a bottom surface. A spacer projects from the container side wall at a location beneath the tab when the assembly is in the closed position. The spacer bends inward towards the container in response to application of a sufficient force, to move from a locked position that blocks the bottom surface of the tab, to an unlocked position to expose at least a portion of the bottom surface of the tab.

BACKGROUND

There is an increasing awareness of the need to protect children from inadvertently gaining access to medications and other potentially harmful products. Ingestion of only one or two pills of a prescribed medication can prove fatal to a child. There is a further increasing awareness of the necessity to provide containers that are readily and easily opened by an adult, that is, any person having the cognitive ability to understand the instructions for opening a container, which requires certain manipulation and manual dexterity. Such persons are assumed to have the ability to understand that the act of opening such a container to gain access to the contents is a deliberate action, and is only undertaken when there is a necessity to attain access to such contents.

There are several conventional, so-called, “childproof” or “child-resistant” containers in the market, which are generally employed by dispensing pharmacists for use in filling prescriptions, where the prescription requires that the pharmacist dispense one or more of a plurality of pills, tablets, gel-caps, capsules, or the like. For example, the container may include a “push-and-turn” closure for pill containers, or an “arrow-alignment” closure for pill containers.

The “push-and-turn” system for containers conventionally refers to a system in which the closure or cap for the container must be pushed axially downwardly and rotated at the same time to open the container. The “arrow alignment” system for containers conventionally refers to a system in which an arrow on the closure or cap must be aligned with an arrow on the container, such as one which is embossed on the container, in order to open the container. However, these containers are often complicated for adults to use.

Conventional container assemblies of the type where the cap or closure is integral with the container may include a hinge that pivotally affixes the cap and the container, and in some cases have a fixed protrusion (also referred to as a “thumb tab”) attached to the cap that is configured to assist in the opening of the cap. This fixed protrusion is typically opposite the hinge, and thus acts as a lever to allow the intended user to open the container when a sufficient force is applied under the fixed protrusion. Such containers can often easily be opened by children.

Therefore it is an object of the invention to provide an improved cap and container system that is child resistant, yet easily opened by an adult.

SUMMARY

The present invention relates to various embodiments of cap and container assemblies and methods for opening such assemblies. In one embodiment, the cap and container assembly includes a container having a base and a side wall extending upward from the base. The base and the side wall define an interior, and the side wall defines an opening leading to the interior. A cap moves with respect to the container between an opened position in which the opening is exposed, and a closed position in which the cap covers the opening. A tab projects outward from the cap and has a bottom surface. A spacer projects from the container side wall at a location beneath the tab when the assembly is in the closed position. The spacer bends inward towards the container in response to application of a sufficient force, to move from a locked position in which the spacer is outwardly oriented and blocks the bottom surface of the tab, to an unlocked position in which the spacer is inwardly bent to expose at least a portion of the bottom surface of the tab.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Certain terminology is used in the foregoing description for convenience and is not intended to be limiting. Words such as “front,” “back,” “top,” and “bottom” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. This terminology includes the words specifically noted above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. General references to the inventions disclosed herein, when using these or similar terms, shall be considered made with respect to the assemblies in the closed and locked position, unless otherwise specified. Additionally, the words “a” and “one” are defined as including one or more of the referenced item unless specifically noted. The phrase “at least one of” followed by a list of two or more items, such as “A, B or C,” means any individual one of A, B or C, as well as any combination thereof.

A first embodiment of a container assembly10according to the invention is shown inFIGS. 1-5. As shown, the assembly10includes a container20having a base28and a tubular side wall26extending upward from the base28. The side wall26defines an opening22at an upper edge thereof, and the opening22leads to an interior27of the container20. The assembly10has a front12, a rear16, and first and second sides14A,14B joining the front12and rear16.

Still referring toFIGS. 1-5, the assembly10further includes a cap30. The cap30includes a top wall31and a skirt33that extends downward, substantially perpendicularly around the outer periphery of the top wall31. The cap30moves between a closed position, in which the cap30covers the opening22, as shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, and an opened position, in which the opening22is exposed, as shown inFIGS. 3 and 5. The cap30of the illustrated embodiment is pivotally affixed to the container by a hinge40, which allows the cap30to pivot between the opened and closed positions. The cap30of the illustrated embodiment further includes a thumb tab36for facilitating the opening and closing of the container. The thumb tab36extends radially outward from the cap30, and in particular from a lower edge of the skirt33in the embodiment shown, at a location directly opposite the hinge40.

The container20may further include a radially outwardly projecting flange24. As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, the flange24is formed slightly below the upper edge of the side wall26, such that the upper portion of side wall26located between the flange26and opening22forms an upper container rim25. A bottom edge of the skirt33rests on an upper surface of the flange24when the assembly10is in the closed position, as shown inFIGS. 1 and 2.

The skirt33surrounds the rim25when the assembly10is in the closed position. In some embodiments, a moisture-tight seal may be formed between the skirt33and the rim25. As used herein, the term “moisture-tight” is defined as indicating that the moisture ingress of the container (after three days) is less than about 1500 micrograms of water, in another embodiment, about 500 micrograms of water, in a further embodiment, about 300 micrograms of water, in yet another embodiment, about 150 micrograms of water, determined by the following test method: (a) place one gram plus or minus 0.25 grams of molecular sieve desiccant in the container and record the weight; (b) fully close the container; (c) place the closed container in an environmental chamber at conditions of 80% relative humidity and 72 F; (c) after one day, weigh the container containing the molecular sieve; (d) after four days, weigh the container containing the molecular sieve; and (e) subtract the first day sample from the fourth day sample to calculate the moisture ingress of the container in units of micrograms of water.

In the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-5, a recess32is formed on an inner surface35of skirt33, as shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, and the rim25includes a sealing projection34formed at an upper edge thereof. The sealing projection34is located within the recess32when the assembly10is in the closed position. An interference fit may be formed between the rim22and the skirt33, and in some embodiments between the sealing projection34and the recess32. Such an interference fit may result in a moisture-tight seal between the container20and the cap, as described above, and may also or alternatively function to retain the cap30on the container in a closed position. In some embodiments, the assembly10can be closed and sealed by applying, in a singular motion, downward pressure on the thumb tab36or the top wall31of the cap30, to pivot the cap to the closed position on the container20.

The hinge40may be attached to the container flange24. As shown inFIG. 4, the hinge40includes a container hinge element40A that is affixed to the container20, and in particular to the flange24in this embodiment, and a hinge cap element40B that is affixed to the cap30, and in particular to the skirt33in this embodiment. A recess42is formed as a relatively thinner section of material joining the two hinge elements40A,40B and forms a bending point during the opening and closing of the container20.

A spacer44is attached to an outer surface of the container side wall26. The spacer44is positioned near the container opening22, such that an upper surface thereof is level with an upper surface of the flange26. When the cap30is in the closed position, the spacer44is located under the thumb tab36, as shown inFIGS. 1 and 2. The spacer44may be substantially the same shape and size as the thumb tab, as shown in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-5, such that the spacer44covers the entire bottom surface of the thumb tab36, making it inaccessible to a user without displacing the spacer44in the manner described below. In another embodiment, the spacer40may be larger than the thumb tab36, which also results in the lower surface of the thumb tab36being inaccessible to a user without displacing the spacer44.

Referring in particular toFIG. 5, the spacer44is an elongate body having a first end43and a second end45, each affixed to the side wall26and defining spacer opening52between the spacer44and side wall26. The spacer44may be constructed of first side segment46, second side segment47, and front segment48. The first46and second47side segments extend outward from the side wall26, away from the container20. The front segment48extends between and joins the first46and second side segments47. The spacer44may further include connecting segments48b,48c. First connecting segment48bextends between and joins first side segment46with front segment48, and second connecting segment48cextends between and joins second side segment47with front segment48. Accordingly, the spacer44of the illustrated embodiment has a substantially five-sided configuration. In other embodiments, the connecting segments48b,48ccould be omitted and the spacer44could have a substantially three-sided configuration. In other embodiments, the number of segments could be increased or decreased, or the spacer44could be provided as a single, continuous curved strip. In each of the embodiments, an opening52is formed between the spacer44and the outer surface of the container side wall26.

Each of the segments46,47,48,48b,48chas a thickness and a height. The height of each segment extends between upper spacer end44A to lower spacer end44B, as shown inFIG. 3.

The spacer44or a portion thereof may be constructed of a material that bends when a sufficient force is applied thereto. As used in this application, “sufficient force” is defined as a degree of force above a preselected threshold that causes bending. In one embodiment, the entire spacer44bends when a sufficient force is applied thereto. In other embodiments, one or more portions or segments of the spacer44may bend when a sufficient force is applied thereto. In some embodiments, at least the front segment48bends when a sufficient force is applied thereto.

Children who are of an age at which they cannot comprehend the dangers of taking medicines unintended for them or large doses of medicines typically possess a lower degree of strength than adults. The sufficient force may be selected to be above the strength capabilities of such children.

The spacer or segments thereof that bend when a sufficient force is applied may be dimensioned and formed of a material selected to permit bending when the sufficient force is applied. For example, the spacer44or segment or segments thereof may be formed of a material having a lower degree of stiffness than the container or other segments of the spacer44, such as a material containing a thermoplastic elastomer. Alternatively or additionally, the spacer44or segments thereof may be thickness configured to permit bending when the sufficient force is applied. A person of ordinary skill in the art would be capable of selecting a material and/or thickness to allow bending under application of the sufficient force.

As noted above, the spacer44is located below the thumb tab36, and the thumb tab36may in turn rest on the spacer44when the assembly10is in the closed position. Accordingly, the spacer44, when in a normal state, blocks access to the underside of the thumb tab36, to substantially prevent access thereto. In such a state, the spacer44is in a locked position. As used herein, the term “substantially prevent” does not encompass instances of product misuse, such as by wedging a tool between the cap and spacer44in order to pry the cap30off of the container20, or moving the spacer44inward by stepping on it. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface of the skirt33is substantially flush with that of the flange, substantially preventing access to the underside of flange24. In this embodiment, the cap30has a greater area than the container20. In other embodiments, the cap30and container20could have substantially equal surface areas. In either configuration, access to the underside of skirt33is substantially prevented, so that the assembly10can only be opened in the manner described below.

To open the assembly10, a user applies sufficient force to the spacer44in an inward direction D of the assembly10, towards the container side wall26. The sufficient force may be applied to the entire spacer44, or to just the portion designed to bend under application of a sufficient force, such as the front segment48. Application of the sufficient force results in the spacer44or portion thereof moving inwards with respect to the container20, moving the spacer44into an unlocked position, in which at least a portion of the underside of thumb tab36is exposed. An upward force can then be applied to the underside of thumb tab36, driving the cap30in an upward direction to displace it from the container20and uncover the opening22, in order to open the assembly10.

The spacer44may be biased towards the locked position, for example, by being formed of a material having a degree of stiffness so as to cause the spacer44to unbend and return to the locked position upon release of the sufficient force.

In some embodiments, the cap30, container20and hinge40may be integrally molded of a plastic material. The assembly10may be, for example, molded in accordance with the mold similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,783,056 and 4,812,116, respectively or may be produced in accordance with U.S. Pat. No. 5,723,085. The disclosures of these patents are incorporated by reference herein as if fully set forth.

Another embodiment of a container assembly10according to the invention is shown inFIGS. 6, 6A and 6B. The assembly ofFIGS. 6, 6A and 6Bis similar to that ofFIGS. 1-5, and only the differences will be described in detail. The same reference numbers as those used inFIGS. 1-5will be used to designate the same or analogous elements of the assembly ofFIG. 6, unless otherwise specified.FIG. 6Ashows the rim25of this embodiment in detail. As shown, sealing projection34and the smooth transition surface at upper edge62of the container20form an annular region for interlocking with the cap30. In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the sealing projection34is greater than the inner diameter of container side wall26. In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the sealing projection34is about 0.025″ greater than the outer diameter of side wall26. The sealing projection34includes an outer projection surface65, which has the maximum outer diameter of the sealing projection34. The outer diameter of the outer projection surface65may be constant. In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the outer projection surface65is constant for a length of 0.033″ in an axial direction of the assembly10. Adjacent the outer projection surface65, a lower projection surface67tapers downward and inward toward the side wall26. In one embodiment, the lower projection surface extends for a distance of about 0.030″ in an axial direction of the assembly10and tapers at an angle Θ of 21° with respect to the side wall26and outer projection surface65.

The assembly ofFIG. 6further includes an inner sealing ridge74, as shown in detail inFIG. 6B. Sealing ridge74is positioned on a lower surface of the top wall31, extending downward and substantially perpendicularly therefrom, and is disposed radially inward with respect to skirt33. The sealing ridge74is disposed within the container opening22and abuts an inner surface87of the side wall26when the assembly10is in the closed position. An outer surface77of the sealing ridge74and inner surface35of skirt33define a gap81into which rim25fits, to form a seal when the cap30is in the closed position. The rim25is configured to sealingly fit within the gap81, for example, by way of an outer surface77of the sealing ridge74being in continuous contact with an inner surface87of the rim25along the entire annular extensions thereof, or by way of an outer surface of the rim25, for example, a surface of the sealing projection34, being in continuous contact with an inner surface35of the skirt33, such as an inner surface of recess32, along the entire annular extensions thereof.

The sealing ridge74may further include a bottom surface76, which may be curved, angled, or both, to form a smooth transition surface to facilitate guiding the sealing ridge74into the container opening22.

The sealing ridge74may take on other configurations or include other features known in the art. For example, the sealing ridge74could take on all or part of any of the configurations disclosed in any of U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,537,137, 7,213,720 or 8,528,778, each of which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth.

Another embodiment of a container assembly10according to the invention is shown inFIG. 7. The assembly10ofFIG. 7is similar to that ofFIG. 6, and only the differences will be described in detail. The same reference numbers as those used inFIG. 6will be used to designate the same or analogous elements of the assembly ofFIG. 6, unless otherwise specified.

In the embodiment ofFIG. 7, the container20further includes a pin90that extends outward from the side wall26at an upper portion of the container20.

The cap30includes a latch92extending downward from the skirt33. The latch92includes an aperture94. When the assembly10is in the closed position, pin90is retained within the aperture94to retain the cap30over the opening22in the closed position. In order to displace the cap30and move the assembly into an opened position, the latch92can be pulled away from the pin, releasing the pin90from the aperture to allow opening and closing of the assembly10.

The features and functionality of the above-described embodiments will be better understood with reference to the following examples, which set forth the results of tests conducted on container assemblies according to the invention. These examples are for illustrative purposes and should not be considered limiting the scope of the invention.

A container assembly having the features described with reference toFIG. 6was provided to panelists. The assembly was empty and was opened and closed ten (10) times prior to testing. Directions to open the package read: TO OPEN: PUSH IN AND FLIP UP WITH THUMB.

Panelists

In the child testing phase of this study, the panelists included twenty (20) children between the ages of forty-two (42) months and fifty-one (51) months, and were distributed into three age groups (42-44, 45-48, and 49-51 months, evenly distributed by sex).

In the senior phase of this study, the panelists include twenty (20) seniors between the ages of fifty (50) years and seventy (70) years of age, and were distributed into three age groups (50-54, 55-59, and 60-70 years, with 75% female).

Test Supervisory

Test supervisor(s) were instructed to conduct the evaluation of the packaging in strict accordance with the 16 CFR 1700.

Results and Discussion

Results of this study appear in the Tables 1 and 2. These tables represent a compilation of all data obtained during the study. For clarity in presentation and discussion this information, the following features will be used as the major points of discussion: Child-resistant effectiveness, senior-use effectiveness, and compliance with the Code of Federal Regulations Title 16, Part 1700.

Results of the package evaluation by the twenty (20) child panelists appear in Table 1, below. From Table 1 it will be noted that no children were successful in opening the package before demonstration, and one (1) child was successful in opening the package following a demonstration, for a total of one (1) successful child panelist. This represents a child-resistant effectiveness rate of 95%.

The senior panel consisted of fifteen (15) females and five (5) males from sixty (60) to seventy (70) years of age. Nineteen (19) of the twenty (20) seniors were successful in opening the package, representing a senior use effectiveness of 95%.

TABLE 2Package opening test evaluated by adults of sixty (60) toseventy (70) years of age for senior use-effectiveness.SUCCESSFUL PANELISTSPanelistsFirstSecond OpeningTOTALTestedOpeningand Second ClosingFailures60-70 years old:Females1514141Males5550Subtotal2019191TOTAL2019191
Compliance with 16 CFR 1700

The tested containers fulfill the standards for poison prevention packaging under 16 CFR 1700.

A container assembly having the latch and pin features described with reference toFIG. 7was provided to panelists. The assembly was empty and was opened and closed ten (10) times prior to testing. Directions to open the package did not appear on any of the test units.

Panelists

In the child testing phase of this study, the panelists included fifty (50) children between the ages of forty-two (42) months and fifty-one (51) months, and were distributed into three age groups (42-44, 45-48, and 49-51 months, evenly distributed by sex).

Test supervisor(s) were instructed to conduct the evaluation of the packaging in strict accordance with the 16 CFR 1700.

Results and Discussion

Results of this study appear in Table 3, which represents a compilation of all data obtained during the study. For clarity in presentation and discussion of this information, the following features will be used as the major points of discussion: Child-resistant effectiveness and compliance with the Code of Federal Regulation Title 16, Part 1700.

Results of the package evaluation by the fifty (50) child panelists appear in Table 3, below. From Table 3 it will be noted that no children were successful in opening the packaging before demonstration, and one (1) child was successful in opening the packaging following a demonstration for a total of one (1) successful child panelist. This represents a child-resistant effectiveness of 98%.

TABLE 3Package opening test evaluated by children aged forty-two (42)to fifty-one (51) months of age for child resistant effectiveness.Table 3. Package opening test evaluated by children aged 42to 51 months of age for child resistant effectiveness.Successful PanelistsBeforeAfterDemonstrationDemonstrationAge inFe-Fe-Fe-MonthsMalesmalesTotalMalesmalesMalesmalesTotal42-4478150000045-481010200000049-51871500101Totals25255000101CHILD-RESISTANT EFFECTIVENESS = 98.00%
Compliance With 16 CFR 1700

The tested containers fulfill the standards for poison prevention packaging under 16 CFR 1700.

FIGS. 8-11show anther embodiment of a cap and container assembly10in accordance with the present invention. The assembly10ofFIGS. 8-11is similar to that ofFIGS. 1-5, and only the differences will be described in detail. The same reference numbers as those used inFIGS. 1-5will be used to designate the same or analogous elements to the assembly ofFIGS. 1-5, unless otherwise specified.

As shown, the assembly10ofFIGS. 8-11includes a ramp29protruding from a lower surface37of the thumb tab36. When the assembly10is in the closed position as shown inFIGS. 10 and 11, the ramp29protrudes into the opening52of the spacer44. When a sufficient force is applied to the spacer44in an inward direction D towards the container20, the spacer44contacts inclined surface38of the ramp29, which extends, generally, in an angled direction downwards towards the bottom of the container20and inwards towards the center of the container20. As the spacer44continues to move in direction D, the incline of surface32forces thumb tab36, and in turn the cap30, in an upward direction, causing the cap30to lift off of the container20. According to such an embodiment, a separate action of applying pressure to the thumb tab36to open the assembly10may be eliminated, as the application of a sufficient force itself to the spacer44itself results in lifting of the cap30. Alternatively, the assembly10could be configured such that some pressure must be applied to the thumb tab36in order to open the assembly, with the ramp29serving merely to reduce the necessary amount of pressure and assist in lifting of the cap30.

Another embodiment of a cap and container assembly110according to the invention is shown inFIGS. 12 and 13. The assembly110ofFIGS. 12 and 13is similar to that ofFIGS. 8-11, and only the differences will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the same reference numbers as those used inFIGS. 8-11will be used to designate the same or analogous elements to the assembly ofFIGS. 8-11, increased by100.

In the embodiment ofFIGS. 12 and 13, the cap130and container120both have substantially rectangular shapes with rounded sides and corners. The side wall126has a height H, which extends upward with respect to the assembly110and perpendicular to the base128. The base128has a width W running parallel to hinge140and a length L running perpendicular to hinge140. The height H of the side wall126of this embodiment is substantially less the width W and length L of the base128, which can be advantageous for transport and storage of the assembly110, for example in the pocket of a user. The width W is shorter than the length L in the embodiment ofFIGS. 12 and 13, giving the assembly110a substantially rectangular shape.

The embodiment ofFIGS. 12 and 13further includes an inner sealing ridge174extending downward from a lower surface of top wall131and located interior to the133skirt. The inner sealing ridge174, with the exception of having a substantially rectangular shape, may take on a configuration similar to that of the sealing ridge shown in and described with respect toFIGS. 6 and 7, as well as other configurations known in the art, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,537,137, 7,213,720 or 8,528,778, each of which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth.

The embodiment ofFIGS. 12 and 13, like those described above, includes a spacer144that must be pressed inward with a sufficient force in order to open the assembly110. As shown inFIG. 12, the spacer144of this embodiment has a substantially three sided shape, including first side segment146, second side segment147, and front segment148. First and second connecting segments48b,48cextend in substantially curved paths, such that the spacer144extends in a path matching the substantially rectangular outer perimeter of the container base120and cap130, with rounded corners. In other embodiments the spacer144could take on other configurations.

Referring in particular toFIG. 13, the spacer144of this embodiment includes an upper inclined surface154extending in an angled path, generally upwards and outwards, away from the container120. The inclined surface154engages the tab inclined surface138, as described in detail below.

The tab136of the assembly110ofFIGS. 12 and 13is formed as an extension of the skirt133. In particular, a portion of skirt133extends downward from the front edge of cap133, forming tab136. Ramp129, having inclined surface138, extends downward from a bottom edge137of thumb tab136. Ramp inclined surface138is complimentary to the spacer inclined surface154. When spacer144is pushed in an inward direction D, spacer inclined surface154slides against ramp inclined surface138, to facilitate upward driving of tab136and in turn lid130in the manner described above with respect toFIGS. 8-11.

The embodiment of the assembly shown inFIGS. 12 and 13includes a two part cap130. As shown, such a two part cap130includes a front portion156and a rear portion158. The hinge140divides the cap130into the front portion156and rear portion. As shown, the front portion156is pivotally affixed to the container120at the hinge140, permitting the front portion156to pivot between an opened position in which the opening122is exposed, as shown inFIGS. 12 and 13, and a closed position, in which the front portion156covers the opening122and is located substantially in alignment with the rear portion158. The front portion156extends from the hinge140towards the front112of the assembly110, and includes tab136.

Rear portion158of the cap130extends between hinge140and the rear side116of the assembly. The rear portion158remains in a fixed position upon the assembly in the embodiment shown, and does not pivot about the hinge140. In other embodiments, rear portion158could pivot about hinge140to expose a second opening or a rear portion of opening122. In other embodiments, opening122could be located beneath rear portion158and front portion156could be affixed in position upon the container120. In yet other embodiments, the lid130could be formed as unitary structure that pivots with respect to the hinge140.

FIG. 14shows a container220of yet another embodiment of the cap and container assembly210of the present invention. The container220shown inFIG. 14can be used in an assembly that incorporates a cap similar to that shown inFIGS. 12 and 13, as well as other embodiments of the assembly described herein and other cap and container assemblies known in the art.

The container220ofFIG. 14includes a plurality of flexible fingers250for retaining products212within the interior227of the container220. The fingers250can be made of any material that permits a sufficient degree of flexibility to allow repositioning thereof to permit placement of products212therebetween. For example, the fingers250could be formed of a resilient polymeric material, which could be, for example, an elastomeric material. The fingers250could also be formed of a flexible material with a lower degree of resiliency, so that they are easily deformed but retain their positions.

The container220ofFIG. 14further includes a gripping surface282on the exterior thereof. The gripping surface282could be a surface formed of a material having a high coefficient of friction, such as an elastomeric material. Alternatively, or in addition, the gripping surface282could include texturing elements, such as scoring, as shown inFIG. 14, to facilitate gripping by a user. In other embodiments a gripping surface282similar to that shown inFIG. 14could be incorporated into containers having other configurations, such any other container assembly disclosed herein, as well as other cap and container assemblies known in the art.

The container220ofFIG. 14further includes a seal286. The seal286extends about the perimeter of the upper edge of the container220side wall226such that it is contacted by the cap when closed over the opening222. The seal286may be formed of any suitable material known in the art for producing seals, such as an elastomeric material. In other embodiments, a seal such as that shown inFIG. 14could be incorporated into containers having other configurations, such as other embodiments of cap and container assemblies disclosed herein, or other cap and container assemblies known in the art. The seal286could be included in an assembly with or without an inner sealing ridge174such as that shown inFIGS. 12 and 13, for example, acting as a secondary seal in embodiments of assemblies having such an inner sealing ridge174.

FIGS. 15-18show another embodiment of a cap and container assembly according to the invention. The assembly310ofFIGS. 15-18is similar to that ofFIGS. 12 and 13, and only the differences will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the same reference numbers will be used to designate the same or analogous elements to the assembly ofFIGS. 12 and 13, increased by200.

As shown, the assembly310ofFIGS. 15-18has a substantially rectangular shape. The side wall326has a height H, which extends upward with respect to the assembly and perpendicular to the base328. The base328has a width W running parallel to hinge340and a length L running perpendicular to hinge340. The height H of the side wall326of this embodiment is substantially less than the width W and length L of the base328, which can be advantageous for transport and storage of the assembly310, for example in the pocket of a user. The width W is longer than the length L in the embodiment ofFIGS. 15-18, giving the assembly310a substantially rectangular shape.

The embodiment ofFIGS. 15-18includes a front guard wall333. The front guard wall333extends in a substantially perpendicular and downward direction from an outer edge of the top wall331, similarly to the skirt33,133of the previously described embodiments, but only along the front side314of top wall331, opposite hinge340, and part way along the sides314A,314B, towards the rear316of the assembly310. Guard wall333defines openings371A,371B that receive container buttons370A,370B to retain the assembly310in a closed position, as described in detail below. In other embodiments of the invention, an assembly such as that shown inFIGS. 15-18could be provided with a skirt that extends around the entire perimeter of the top wall331.

Referring in particular toFIG. 16, the hinge340of this embodiment is a double hinge. A hinge strip372is formed between the cap330and an upper edge of side wall326. Specifically, an upper edge of hinge strip372joins with cap330to form a first bending line342A, and a lower edge of hinge strip372joins with side wall326to form a second bending line342B. First bending line342A pivotally affixes the cap330with the hinge strip372, and second bending line342B pivotally affixes the container320with the hinge strip372. First and second bending lines342A,342B can be formed as recesses, such as the recess42in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-5. Alternatively, first and second bending lines342A,342B could be formed as mechanical hinges, or by other means of forming hinges known in the art. The inclusion of two bending lines between the cap330and container320allows for greater mobility in pivoting between the two elements.

The embodiment ofFIGS. 15-18further includes an inner sealing ridge374extending downward from a lower surface of top wall331. The inner sealing ridge374, may take on a similar configuration to that of the sealing ridge shown in and described with respect toFIGS. 6 and 7, as well as other configurations known in the art, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,537,137, 7,213,720 or 8,528,778, each of which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth.

Two openings371A,371B are formed in the guard wall333, along the front side312of the assembly. As shown inFIGS. 16-18, two spacers344A,344B extend out from the container side wall326along the front side312of the assembly310, at locations in alignment with the openings371A,371B. Buttons370A,370B are formed on the front sides of spacers344A,344B. As shown inFIGS. 15-17, buttons370B,370B extend into openings371A,371B when the assembly310is in the closed position, to prevent the cap330from moving from its position over the opening322, to maintain the assembly310in the closed position. The spacers344A,344B are in the locked positions in such a configuration.

In order to open the assembly310, a sufficient force is applied to both of the spacers344A,344B in inward direction D of the assembly, so as to displace the buttons370A,370B from within the openings371A,371B, placing the spacers344A,344B in the unlocked positions. The cap330can then be pivoted with respect to the container320to move the assembly310from the closed position to the opened position.

Two spacers344A,344B having buttons370A,370B and associated openings371A,371B are provided in the illustrated embodiment. Such a configuration is advantageous because it requires a user to simultaneously apply sufficient force to both spacers344A,344B in order to unlock and in turn open the assembly, yet can easily be performed by adults by using two hands to open the assembly, for example by gripping the assembly310lengthwise using both hands and depressing both buttons370A,370B simultaneously using both thumbs. In other embodiments, more than two, as well as a single spacer344and button370with an associated opening could be provided, and the invention should not be viewed as limited to a specific number of spacers344, buttons370or openings.

Referring toFIGS. 16-18in particular, guide strips323A,323B extend downward from the bottom surface of cap top wall331at locations behind openings371A,371B. As shown inFIGS. 16 and 17, guide strips323A,323B include ramps329A,329B facing outward with respect to the assembly and located at the bottom edges of guide strips323A,323B. Ramps329A,329B have curved surfaces, which curve outward between the front and bottom surfaces of guide strips323A,323B. In other embodiments, the ramps329A,329B could have inclined flat surfaces. Ramps329A,329B extend downward to vertical positions just lower than the upper edges of buttons370A,370B when the assembly310is in the closed position. Buttons370A,370B have button ramps373A,373B which face guide strip ramps329A,329B when the assembly310is in the closed and locked position. In particular, button ramps373A,373B have curved surfaces, which curve outward between the rear and top surfaces of buttons370A,370B. Button ramps370A,370B contact corresponding guide strip ramps329A,329B when the assembly is in the closed position in the illustrated embodiment, but button ramps370A,370B and guide strip ramps329A,329B could also be displaced from each other.

Button ramps370A,370B and corresponding guide strip ramps329A,329B contact each other when the buttons370A,370B are displaced inward in direction D, to move the spacers344A,344B into the unlocked positions. As buttons370A,370B move in direction D, button ramps373A,373B contact guide strip ramps329A,329B, to drive guide strips323A,323B and in turn the entire cap330upward, away from the container320, moving the assembly into the opened position. The curved surfaces of button ramps373A,373B and guide strip ramps329A,329B facilitate smooth gliding between the buttons370A,370B and guide strips323A,323B during this transition.

FIGS. 19-22show another embodiment of a cap and container assembly410according to the invention. The assembly410ofFIGS. 19-22is similar to that ofFIGS. 15-18, and only the differences will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the same reference numbers will be used to designate the same or analogous elements to the assembly ofFIGS. 15-18, increased by100.

The assembly410ofFIGS. 19-22includes a skirt433extending downward from and substantially perpendicular to the cap top wall430. The skirt433surrounds the entire perimeter of the top wall431, and functions similarly to the guard wall333of the previously described embodiment, and may be considered a guard wall that extends around the entire perimeter of the top wall341. When the assembly430is in the closed position, as shown inFIG. 19, the bottom edge of skirt433sits on an upper surface of container base428.

Spacers444A,444B protrude from opposite sides of side wall426in the embodiment ofFIGS. 19-22. Accordingly, openings471A,471B are formed on opposite sides of skirt433, in alignment with buttons470A,470B. Buttons470A,470B are retained within openings471A,471B when the assembly410is in the closed position. In order to move the assembly into the opened position, buttons470A,470B are depressed inward with respect to the assembly410, towards each other, in directions D1and D2, to displace buttons470A,470A from within openings471A,471B, so that the cap430can be displaced from the container420to move the assembly410into the opened position.

The placement of buttons470A,470B on opposite sides of the assembly410allows a user to open the assembly410using a single hand, by, for example, simultaneously depressing the buttons470A,470B using the thumb and forefinger. The width W of the assembly410may be selected to permit a typical user to grasp the assembly410with a single hand while placing the thumb and forefinger over opposite buttons470A,470B in this manner.

FIGS. 23-26show another embodiment of a cap and container assembly510according to the invention. The assembly ofFIGS. 23-26is similar to that ofFIGS. 12 and 13, and only the differences will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the same reference numbers as those used inFIGS. 12 and 13shall be used to designate the same or analogous elements, increased by100.

In the embodiment ofFIGS. 23-26, the cap530and container520both have substantially square shapes. The side wall526has a height H, which extends upward with respect to the assembly and perpendicular to the base528. The base528has a width W running parallel to hinge540and a length L running perpendicular to hinge540. The height H of the side wall526of this embodiment is substantially less the width W and length L of the base528, which can be advantageous for transport and storage of the assembly510, for example in the pocket of a user. The width W and the length L are substantially equal in the embodiment ofFIGS. 23-26, giving the assembly510a substantially square shape. The front side514of this embodiment of the assembly510has an outwardly bowed extension.

Referring toFIGS. 24-26, this embodiment further comprises an inner lip578. The inner lip578extends upward from a top surface of the base528and is radially inwardly disposed with respect to the side wall526. In use, products housed within the container would sit on the top surface of the base528within the inner lip578.

The embodiment ofFIGS. 23-26further includes an inner sealing ridge574. The inner sealing ridge574is radially inwardly disposed with respect to the skirt533and extends downward from a bottom surface of the top wall531. Referring in particular toFIG. 25, the inner sealing ridge574engages the inner lip578of the container520when the assembly510is in the closed position. As shown, an outer surface of the inner sealing ridge574abuts an inner surface of the inner lip578, and may form a substantially moisture-tight seal therebetween. The inner sealing ridge574may include a sealing bead575, formed as a projection on the outer surface thereof, in order to ensure sufficient contact between the inner sealing ridge574and the inner lip578to form such a moisture-tight seal. The inner sealing ridge574can take on any of the configurations previously described herein, as well as other configurations known in the art, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,537,137, 7,213,720 or 8,528,778, each of which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth.

The embodiment ofFIGS. 23-26includes a spacer544that must be depressed inward with a sufficient force in order to open the assembly510. As shown inFIGS. 23, 24 and 26, the spacer544of this embodiment has a substantially three sided shape, including first side segment546, second side segment547, and front segment548. First side segment546and second side segment547may be slightly outwardly curved, as shown in the illustrated embodiment. Front segment548may be slightly inwardly curved, as shown in the illustrated embodiment. Such a configuration creates a convenient indentation for a user's finger when applying sufficient force to move the spacer544from the locked to the unlocked configuration.

As shown inFIG. 23, the top wall531of the cap530may have a profile matching the inward and outward curvatures of the spacer segments546,547,548, so that the top wall531, and in particular the front portion, forming a tab536is substantially flush with the outer surface of the spacer544. In other embodiments, the spacer544could extend further outward than the top wall531. In either configuration, the spacer544blocks the bottom surface of537of tab536.

Referring toFIGS. 24 and 26, springs553may be provided to bias the spacer544to the locked position. In the illustrated embodiment, two springs553A,553B are provided. The springs553A,553B may traverse spacer opening552, between the spacer and the container side wall526. In the illustrated embodiment, springs553A,553B comprise hinges555A,555B that permit bending of the springs553A,553B during depression of the spacer544. Springs553A,553B of this configuration further serve to guide the front segment548of spacer544in direction D during movement of the spacer544from the locked to the unlocked position. Springs553A,553B can be, for example, made of a material that resists bending to a degree that requires application of a sufficient force in order to allow movement of front segment548in direction D, and which is resilient enough to return springs553A,553B and in turn spacer544to their original positions upon removal of the sufficient force.

A gripping surface557may be formed on an outer surface of spacer544, on the front segment548in the illustrated embodiment, to facilitate gripping of a user's finger when moving the spacer544inward in direction D. In the illustrated embodiment, the gripping surface557comprises a plurality of ridges, though other means of forming a high friction surface known in the art could be employed as well.

The embodiment ofFIGS. 23-26includes a double hinge540, similar to the double hinge ofFIGS. 15-18, and including a hinge strip572, first bending line542A between hinge strip572and cap530, and second bending line542B between hinge strip572and base520. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 23-26, second bending line542B is formed on a lower portion of side wall526, rather than at the upper edge, as in the embodiment ofFIGS. 15-18. Side wall526includes an indentation559located on the rear516of the assembly510. When the assembly510is in the closed configuration, hinge strip572rests within the indentation559, as shown inFIGS. 25 and 26.

FIGS. 27-30show another embodiment of a cap and container assembly610according to the invention. The assembly610ofFIGS. 27-30is similar to that ofFIGS. 23-26and only the differences will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the same reference numbers will be used to designate the same or analogous elements to the assembly ofFIGS. 23-26, increased by100.

The assembly ofFIGS. 27-30includes two spacers644A,644B, located on opposite sides614A,614B of the assembly610. Referring in particular toFIGS. 28 and 30, the assembly has a generally rectangular configuration, with the height H being less than both the length L and width W, and the width W being greater than the length L. Side portions636A,636B of the cap top wall631function similarly to the front portion or tab536of FIGS.23-26. In particular, the side portions636A,636B are located directly over spacers644A,644B and substantially flush therewith. In other embodiments, the side portions636A,636B could extend beyond spacers644A,644B. In either configuration, the lower surfaces637A,637B of side portions636A,636B are blocked by spacers644A,644B and generally inaccessible to a user of the assembly, when the spacers644A,644B are in the locked positions.

The spacers644of this embodiment include latches660, and the cap side portions include catches662that engage the latches when the spacers644are in the locked positions, to help retain the assembly610in the closed position.

As shown, the latches660A,660B are formed as hooks that extend upwardly from the spacers644A,664B and in opposite outward directions with respect to the assembly610. The latches660A,660B of the illustrated embodiment extend from within the spacer openings652A,652B, each being affixed therein to the spacer front segments648A,648B by a pair of supports661that extend into each of the openings652A,652B from an inner surface of the front segment648. In other embodiments, the latches660could be affixed to other portions of the spacer644. For example, the latches660could be formed integrally with any of the segments646,647,648.

The catches662A,662B are formed as tabs that project in opposite inward directions of the assembly610from a lower edge of skirt633. As shown inFIGS. 29 and 29A, when the assembly610is in the closed position and the spacers644A,644B are in the locked positions, each of the latches660A,660B hooks on to an associated one of the catches662A,662B, such that a top surface663of each catch662A,662B abuts a bottom surface664of each latch660A,660B, blocking the catch662and in turn the entire cap630from moving away from the container620in an upward direction, to help retain the assembly610in the closed position.

In order to open the assembly610, a sufficient force is simultaneously applied to both spacers644A,644B in opposite inward directions D1, D2of the assembly610. When this occurs, latch660is displaced from catch662, allowing catch662and the entire cap630to move freely away from the container620, so that the assembly610can move to the opened position. While this is occurring, the lower tab surfaces637A,637B become exposed, due to the inward movement of spacers644A,644B, so that a user can apply pressure to thereto in order to drive the cap630away from the container620.

The embodiment ofFIGS. 27-30may optionally include corner tabs680A,680B to facilitate opening of the assembly610. Corner tabs680A,680B may extend outwardly from the corners of the cap660, for example at the region at which the front of cap630joins the side portions636, and may optionally extend beyond spacers644, as in the illustrated embodiment. A user may grip one or both of the corner tabs680A,680B and draw the cap630away from the container620, after moving the spacers644A,644B to the unlocked positions, to move the assembly610into the opened position. Alternatively, tabs having a similar configuration to corner tabs680A,680B could be provided at other locations on the cap630, a single tab could be provided, or the tabs could be omitted, and a user could utilize the lower surfaces637A,637B of side portions636A,636B to displace the cap630from the container620in opening the assembly610.

The placement of spacers644A,644B on opposite sides of the assembly610allows a user to open the assembly610using a single hand, by, for example, simultaneously depressing the spacers644A,644B in directions D1and D2using the thumb and forefinger. The width W may be selected to permit a typical user to grasp the assembly610with a single hand while placing the thumb and forefinger over opposite spacers644A,644B in this manner.

FIGS. 31-34show another embodiment of a cap and container assembly710according to the invention. The assembly ofFIGS. 31-34is similar to that ofFIGS. 27-30and only the differences will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the same reference numbers will be used to designate the same or analogous elements to those ofFIGS. 27-30, increased by100.

The container720of this embodiment includes an inner lip778and an inner sealing ridge774. As shown inFIG. 33, the inner sealing ridge774of this embodiment sits outside of the inner lip778, such that an inner surface of the inner lip774abuts an outer surface of the inner sealing ridge, and may form a moisture-tight seal therewith. Alternatively, this embodiment of the assembly710could be provided with any of the seal configurations previously described herein, and any other embodiment of the assembly could be provided with the seal arrangement shown inFIGS. 31-34.

The spacers744A,744B are located on opposite sides714A,714B of the assembly710. As shown, the spacers744A,744B of this embodiment each have a first end743located towards the rear716of the assembly710and a second end745located towards the front712of the assembly710. As best shown inFIGS. 32 and 34, the first end743is affixed to the side wall726, while the second end745is detached from the side wall726. As a result, the spacers744A,744B are formed as arms that extend from the sides714A,714B of the assembly710. First ends743A,743B at which the spacers744A,744B are attached to the assembly710act as pivot points, such that the spacers744A,744B pivot inward about first ends743, towards the assembly710in directions D1, D2when a sufficient force is applied thereto.

The spacers744A,744B, as shown inFIGS. 31-34, do not include springs, but may be formed of a material having a sufficient degree of stiffness and resiliency so as to bias the spacers744A,744B to the unlocked positions so that they can only be moved inward in directions D1and D2upon application of a sufficient force. Alternatively, the spacers744A,744B of this embodiment could be provided with springs such as those shown inFIGS. 27-30.

Still referring toFIGS. 32 and 34, the side wall726includes side recessed portions749A,749B. Side recessed portions749A,749B extend inwards towards the center of the container720to accommodate spacers744A,744B. This allows spacers744A,744B to extend generally in alignment and flush with the sections of side wall726surrounding side recessed portions749A,749B.

In the illustrated embodiment, the edges forming the front712and rear716of the assembly710are parallel, while the edges forming sides714A,714B extend at angles away each other as they extend from the rear716to the front712of the assembly710, such that the assembly710has a substantially trapezoidal shape. Accordingly, the spacers744A,744B extend at angles away from each other in the rear to frontward direction of the assembly710, to match the extension of sides714A,714B. In other embodiments, the assembly710could take on other shapes, such as the square or rectangular shapes of the other embodiment described above.

The spacers744A,744B of this embodiment include latches760A,760B, which are similar in configuration to the latches692ofFIGS. 27-30. The latches760A,760B of this embodiment engage apertures762A,762B formed in the cap730. As shown, apertures762A,762B are formed within indented regions769A,769B of the cap top wall731. Indented regions769A,769B are vertically aligned with spacers744A,744B and apertures762A,762B are vertically aligned with latches760A,760B when the assembly is in the closed position. As a result, latches760A,760B extend through and engage apertures762A,762B when the assembly710is in the closed position to help retain the cap730over the container720. In particular, latches760A,760B hook into apertures762A,762B, such that a top surface763of the indented region769abuts a bottom surface764of each latch760, preventing the cap730from moving away from the container720in an upward direction, to help retain the assembly710in the closed position.

The side wall726of this embodiment further includes a front recessed portion739. The front recessed portion739, like the side recessed portions749A,749B, is formed as a portion of side wall726that dips inward, toward the center of the assembly710. When the assembly710is in the closed position, as shown inFIG. 31, a portion of top wall731overlaps recessed portion739, leaving a front area737of the bottom surface of the top wall exposed.

In order to open the assembly710, a user applies sufficient force to the spacers744A,744B simultaneously in inward directions D1and D2. This moves latches760A,760B inward within apertures762A,762B. Latches remain within apertures762A,762B during this process, due to the fact that apertures762A,762B have a greater extension in the width W direction of the assembly, but the inward movement of the latches760A,760B displaces bottom surfaces764of the latches from top surfaces763of indented regions769A,769B. The cap730can then be moved away from the container720, and a user may use the portion of the cap730lower surface737that is exposed by front recess739in order to achieve this.

Another embodiment of a cap and container assembly810according to the invention is shown inFIGS. 35-39. The assembly810of this embodiment is similar to that ofFIGS. 31-34and only the differences will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the same reference numbers will be used to designate the same or analogous elements to those ofFIGS. 31-34, increased by100.

This embodiment of the assembly810has a generally rectangular shape, with the width W, extending parallel to hinge840being greater than the length L, extending perpendicular to the hinge840, and the height H, extending perpendicular to both the length L and width W being less than the length L and width W. It should be understood that this embodiment of the assembly could take on other shapes, such as a trapezoidal shape such as that of the embodiments ofFIGS. 31-34, or a square shape.

The spacers844A,844B of this embodiment include latches860A,860B that engage apertures862A,862B formed within the skirt833. As shown inFIGS. 35 and 37, latches860A,860B are horizontally aligned with apertures862A,862B when the assembly810is in the closed position. The hook portions884of latches extend into the apertures862A,862B when the assembly810is in the closed position and the spacers844are in the locked positions, to prevent the cap830from moving away from the container820to expose the opening822.

As best shown inFIG. 36, the skirt833of this embodiment includes a front section833C and opposite side sections833A,833B. The front section833C extends across the entire front side812of the assembly810and wraps around the corners880A,880B towards the sides814A,814B. The front section833C has a greater extension in the vertical or height H direction of the assembly810, such that it covers the entire portion of the side wall826extending along the front812of the assembly810. The side portions833A,833B pick up where front portion833C terminates and extend along the entire sides814A,814B of the assembly810. The side portions833A,833B have a smaller extension in the vertical or height H direction of the assembly, extending downward from the edges of top wall831to a height just below hook portions880A,880B when the assembly is in the closed position, leaving the lower portions of spacers844A,844B exposed.

In another embodiment, the front833C and side portions833A,833B could have equal vertical extensions, for example, each of these portions could have vertical extensions equal to those of the side portions833A,833B of the illustrated embodiment. In such an embodiment the spacers844A,844B would remain exposed, as they are in the illustrated embodiment, allowing the assembly810to be opened in the manner described below.

In order to move the assembly from the closed position to the opened position, a user applies sufficient force to the spacers844A,844B, inward in directions D1and D2, to displace the hook portions884A,884B from apertures862A,862B, moving the spacers844A,844B into the unlocked positions, so that the cap830can be displaced from the container820to move the assembly810into the opened position.

FIGS. 40-46show another embodiment of a cap and container assembly1010according to the invention.

As shown, the assembly1010includes a container1020having a base1028and a tubular side wall1026extending upward from the base1028. The side wall1026defines an opening1022at an upper edge thereof, and the opening1022leads to an interior1027of the container1020.

Still referring toFIGS. 40-46, the assembly1010of this embodiment further includes a cap1030. The cap1030includes a top wall1031and a skirt1033that extends downward, substantially perpendicularly around the outer periphery of the top wall1031. The cap1030moves between a closed position, in which the cap1030covers the opening1022, as shown inFIGS. 40 and 42, and an opened position, in which the opening1022is exposed, as shown inFIG. 41. The cap1030of the illustrated embodiment is pivotally affixed to the container by a hinge1040, located at the rear1016, which allows the cap1030to pivot between the opened and closed positions.

The assembly1010has a width W extending horizontally and generally parallel to the hinge1040, a length L, extending horizontally and generally perpendicular to the hinge1040, and a height H extending vertically and generally perpendicular to the hinge1040. The assembly1010of the illustrated embodiment has a generally rectangular shape, with the height H having a smaller extension than the length L and width W, and the width W having a greater extension than both the length L and the height H. The assembly could be provided in any other suitable configuration known in the art or disclosed herein, taking on, for example, a cylindrical or square shape.

The cap1030of this embodiment includes an inner sealing ridge1074extending downward from a bottom surface of the top wall and located inward with respect to the skirt1033. The container1020includes an inner lip1078extending upward from a bottom surface of the base1028and located inward with respect to the side wall1026. The inner sealing ridge1074and the inner lip1078may engage to form a moisture-tight seal. As shown inFIG. 42, when the assembly1010is in the closed position, an inner surface of the inner sealing ridge1074abuts an outer surface of the inner lip1078to form a moisture-tight seal therebetween. The inner lip1078of this embodiment includes a sealing projection1034at the upper edge and on an outer surface thereof, to ensure complete contact with the inner sealing ridge1074. In an alternative embodiment, the sealing projection1034could be omitted or provided on an inner surface of the inner sealing ridge1074.

A bottom edge of the skirt1033contacts a top edge of the side wall1026when the assembly1010is in the closed position. In some embodiments, a moisture-tight seal may be formed between the skirt1033and the rim side wall1026, which can be an additional or alternative moisture-tight seal to that formed between inner sealing ridge1074and inner lip1078.

Referring in particular toFIGS. 41 and 42, the hinge1040of this embodiment is a double hinge. A hinge strip1072is formed between the cap1030and an upper edge of side wall1026. Specifically, an upper edge of hinge strip1072joins with cap1030to form a first bending line1042A, and a lower edge of hinge strip1072joins with side wall1026to form a second bending line1042B. First bending line1042A pivotally affixes the cap1030with the hinge strip1072, and second bending line1042B pivotally affixes the container1020with the hinge strip1072. First and second bending lines1042A,1042B can be formed as recesses, such as the recess42in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-5. Alternatively, first and second bending lines1042A,1042B could be formed as mechanical hinges, or by other means of forming hinges known in the art. The inclusion of two bending lines between the cap1030and container1020allows for greater mobility in pivoting between the two elements.

The assembly1010ofFIGS. 40-46includes a slider1044that moves between a locked position, which retains the cap1030over the opening1022of the container1020, and an unlocked position, which allows the cap1030to move away from the container1020to move the assembly1010from the closed position to the opened position.

As shown, in particular inFIGS. 45 and 46, the slider1044includes a body1048. The body1048is formed of an elongate front wall1050and an elongate rear wall1052extending parallel to and directly behind the front wall1050. Opposite side walls1054A,1054B join the front wall1050and the rear wall1052. An opening1056is formed between the front wall1052, rear wall1054and side walls1056A,1056B. A top ledge1058extends horizontally forward from an upper edge of the front wall1050. A latch1060extends upwards from the upper surface of top ledge1058. The latch1060includes a forwardly extending hook1064. An actuation portion1046is affixed to the slider1044slightly forward of front wall1050and extending downward from a front edge of the top ledge1058. A grip1066projects forward from the front of actuation portion1046. In the illustrated embodiment, the grip1066is a vertical ridge that can easily be gripped by a user, for example between the thumb and forefinger, during sliding of the slider1044between the unlocked and locked positions, as described in detail below. At least one spring1068may be included to bias the slider1044to the locked position. Two springs1068A,1068B are provided in the illustrated embodiment, projecting from opposite sides of the actuation portion1046.

Referring toFIG. 42, the body1042sits slidably within a gap1024between the container side wall1026and the inner lip1078on the front side1012of the assembly1010. An elongate divider1080extending in a width-wise direction of the assembly1010projects upward from the top surface of the base1028within the gap1024, and extends into the opening1056of slider body1048. A flange1082projects rearwardly from the top edge of divider1080, and extends overtop of slider body rear wall1052to retain the slider1044within the gap1024.

The side wall1026includes a horizontally extending slot1032on the front side1012of the assembly. Slider grip1066projects through the slot1032. Latch1060projects upward, above the upper edge of side wall1026. Referring toFIGS. 41, 41A and 42, an indentation1084is formed in an inner surface of the skirt1033located on the front1012of the assembly. Indentation1084extends upward from the bottom edge of skirt1033. A projection1086extends inwardly from the inner surface of skirt1033within the indentation1084, forming a groove1036. The groove1036is in alignment with the hook1064of latch1060when the assembly1010is in the closed position, and as shown inFIGS. 40 and 42, hook1064is located within the groove1036when the assembly1010is in the closed and locked position.

In order to open the assembly1010, the slider1044is slid from a centrally located, locked position, as shown inFIG. 40, in direction D1or D2, to an unlocked position. To achieve this, a user can grip the grip1066and slide it within the slot1032in direction D1or D2by applying a sufficient force to overcome the bias of the springs1076, to move the hook1064out from the groove1036, so that the cap1030can be removed from the container1020to open the assembly1010.

As shown inFIG. 43, two tabs1038A,1038B extend inward from an inner surface of the side wall1026on the front side1012of the assembly1010. The tabs1038A,1038B are located on opposite sides of the slider1044, directly outside the ends1070A,1070B of springs1068A,1068B. The tabs1038A,1038B extend inward only to distance approximately equal to the thickness of springs1068in the length L direction of the assembly. Accordingly, springs1068A,1068B are prevented from sliding past tabs1038A,1038B during sliding of the slider1044in directions D1and D2, while slider body1048, which is located rearward of tabs1038A,1038B, can slide freely past tabs1038A,1038B in directions D1and D2. During sliding, whichever of the spring arms1076A,1076B that is located towards the direction of sliding will undergo compression between the slider actuation portion1046and the adjacent tab1038. When the slider1044is released, the spring1068urges the slider1044back to the centrally located, locked position.

Another embodiment of a cap and container assembly1110according to the invention is shown inFIGS. 47-53. This embodiment of the assembly1110is similar to that ofFIGS. 40-46and only the differences will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the same reference numbers will be used to designate the same or analogous elements to those of the embodiment ofFIGS. 40-46, increased by100.

The side walls1126along sides1114A,1114B of the assembly1110ofFIGS. 47-53extend at angles towards each other as they extend between the front1112and rear1116of the assembly1110, such that the assembly1110has a substantially trapezoidal shape. The assembly1110also includes angled front corners1118A,1118B, that extend at angles between the front1112and opposite sides1114A,1114B of the assembly1110. Openings1132A,1132B are formed in the side wall1126at the angled front corners1118A,1118B, to facilitate sliding and actuation of the slider1144, as described in detail below. In other embodiments, an assembly1110having the features shown inFIGS. 47-53could take on a square or rectangular shape, such as any of those shown or described herein with respect to other embodiments of the assembly1110.

Referring in particular toFIGS. 48, 52 and 53, the slider1144of this embodiment includes an elongate body1148. A recess1156is formed in the front surface of the slider body1148, as shown inFIG. 52, the recess1156extending inward from the front surface and upward from the bottom surface of the body1148, leaving a top ledge1158extending over the recess1156. A latch1160is formed on the body1148as a protuberance1164extending forward and upward from the top surface of the ledge1158. At least one spring1168may be included to bias the slider1144to the locked position. Two springs1168A,1168B are provided in the illustrated embodiment, projecting from the inner side surfaces defining the recess1156, inwards towards each other and the center of the recess1156. A channel1188having an inverted “L” shape extends between the rear surface and the bottom surface of the body1148. The channel1188has a width-wise extension approximately equal to that of the recess1165. A horizontal leg1190of the channel1188extends inward from the rear surface of the body1148, and a vertical leg1192of the channel1188extends upward from the bottom surface of the body1148to meet the horizontal leg1190. The channel1188may be connected with the recess1156by a slot1194formed in the bottom surface of the body1148and extending in a length-wise direction of the assembly1110. First and second actuation portions1146A,1146B are formed at opposite ends of the body1148and are accessible through front corner openings1132A,1132B of the side wall1126. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuation portions1146A,1146B are angled surfaces configured to be substantially flush with angled corners1118A,1118B of the assembly1110, and are exposed through openings1132A,1132B. In other embodiments, the actuation portions1146A,1146B could project outward from openings1132A,1132B for access by a user. In yet other embodiments, actuation portions1146A,1146B could be located on an interior1127of the assembly1110, requiring a user to reach into the assembly1110and access the actuation portions1146A,1146B through openings1110.

Referring toFIGS. 48 and 49, the slider1144sits slidably with a gap1124formed between the container side wall1126and the inner lip1178on the front side1112of the assembly1110. An elongate divider1180extending in a width wise direction of the assembly1110projects upward from the top surface of the base1128within the gap1124and extends into the vertical leg1192channel1188of slider body1148. A flange1182projects rearwardly from the top edge of divider1180, and extend into the horizontal leg1190of channel1188, to retain the slider1144within the gap1124. A rail1196extends upward from the top surface of container base1128, in a length-wise direction of the assembly1110, between the side wall1126and divider1180. The rail1196extends through the slot1194and between springs1168A,1168B, forming abutment surfaces for springs1168A,1168B, during sliding of the slider1144between the locked and unlocked positions, as described in detail below.

Referring toFIG. 51, an indentation1184is formed in an inner surface of the skirt1133, located on the front side1112of the assembly1110. Indentation1184extends upward from the bottom edge of skirt1133. A projection1186extends inward from the inner surface of the skirt1133within the indentation1184, forming a groove1136. The groove1136is in alignment with the latch1160when the assembly1110is in the closed position, as shown inFIGS. 47 and 48. Protuberance1164is located within the groove1136when the assembly1110is in the closed and locked position.

In order to open the assembly1110, the slider1144is slid from a centrally located, locked position, as shown inFIG. 47, in direction D1or D2, to an unlocked position. To achieve this, a user can press on one of the actuation portions1146in direction D1or D2, using a sufficient force to overcome the bias of spring1168, in turn moving the entire slider in direction D1or D2, to move the latch1160out from groove1136, so that the assembly1110is in the unlocked position and the cap1130can be removed from the container1120to expose the opening1122.

The inclusion of two actuation portions1146A,1146B having the configuration described above permits a user to open the assembly by, for example, holding the assembly in a first hand, and gripping the actuation portions1146A,1146B between the thumb and forefinger of a second hand, and sliding the second hand in direction D1or D2. In some embodiments, the assembly1110could be dimensioned so as to permit gripping in this manner by a typical-sized hand of an adult user.

During sliding of the slider1144from the locked to the unlocked position, as described above, one of the springs1168A,1168B will undergo compression. Springs1168A,1168B each have ends1170A,1170B located on opposite sides of rail1196. During sliding in direction D1, spring1168A comes into abutment with rail1196and is compressed between rail1196and a first inner surface1198A of indentation1194. Likewise, during sliding in direction D2, springs1168B comes into abutment with rail1196and is compressed between rail1196and a second inner surface1198B of indentation1184. This compression of springs1168A,1168B biases the slider1144to the locked position, and returns the slider1144to the locked position when the actuation portion(s)1146A,1146B are released by a user.

Referring toFIG. 48, all or part of the side wall1126and skirt1133may include interlocking steps that engage when the assembly1110is in the closed position. In the illustrated embodiment, such steps are formed on the front side1112of the assembly. The side wall1126of this embodiment includes an inwardly facing step1162that engages an outwardly facing step1163formed on the skirt1133. An outwardly projecting tab1135may be included, to facilitate removal of the cap1130form the container1120during opening. In the illustrated embodiment, the tab1135projects forwardly from a bottom edge of the skirt1133at a location opposite the hinge1140.

FIGS. 54-60show another embodiment of a cap and container assembly1210according to the invention.

As shown, the assembly1210includes a container1220having a base1228and a tubular side wall1226extending upward from the base1228. The side wall1226defines an opening1222at an upper edge thereof, and the opening1222leads to an interior1227of the container1220.

Still referring toFIGS. 54-60, the assembly1210of this embodiment further includes a cap1230. The cap1230includes a top wall1231and a skirt1233that extends downward, substantially perpendicularly around the outer periphery of the top wall1231. The cap1230moves between a closed position, in which the cap1230covers the opening1222, as shown inFIGS. 54 and 55, and an opened position, in which the opening1222is exposed, as shown inFIG. 57. The cap1230of the illustrated embodiment is pivotally affixed to the container by a hinge1240, located at the rear1216of the assembly1210, which allows the cap1230to pivot between the opened and closed positions.

The assembly1210has a width W extending horizontally and generally parallel to the hinge1240, a length L, extending horizontally and generally perpendicular to the hinge1240, and a height H extending vertically and generally perpendicular to the hinge1240. The assembly1210of the illustrated embodiment has a generally rectangular shape, with the height H having a smaller extension than the length L and width W, and the width W having a greater extension than both the length L and the height H. The assembly1210could be provided in any other suitable configuration known in the art or disclosed herein, taking on, for example, a cylindrical or square shape.

The cap1230of this embodiment includes an inner sealing ridge1274extending downward from a bottom surface of the top wall1231and located inward with respect to the skirt1233. The container1220includes an inner lip1278extending upward from a bottom surface of the base1228and located inward with respect to the side wall1226. The inner sealing ridge1274and the inner lip1278may engage to form a moisture-tight seal. As shown inFIG. 55, when the assembly1210is in the closed position, an inner surface of the inner sealing ridge1274abuts an outer surface of the inner lip1278to form a moisture-tight seal therebetween. The inner lip1278of this embodiment includes an outer projection1234at the upper edge and on an outer surface thereof, and the sealing ridge1274includes an inner projection1276at the upper edge and on an inner surface thereof. The outer projection1234and inner projection1276interlock to retain the assembly1210in the closed position, and may be used to form a moisture-tight seal between the cap1220and container1230.

A bottom edge of the skirt1233contacts a top edge of the side wall1226when the assembly1210is in the closed position. As shown inFIGS. 54 and 55, the outer surfaces of the skirt1233and side wall1226are substantially flush when the assembly1210is in the closed position. Alternatively, the side wall1226could extend further out than the skirt1233. In either embodiment, the bottom surface of the skirt1233is covered by the side wall1226and generally inaccessible to a user, preventing opening of the assembly1210unless unlocked using the method described below. In some embodiments, a moisture-tight seal may be formed between the skirt1233and the container side wall1226, which can be an additional or alternative moisture-tight seal to that formed between inner sealing ridge1274and inner lip1278described above.

Referring in particular toFIGS. 55 and 58, the hinge1240of this embodiment is a double hinge. A hinge strip1272is formed between the cap1230and an upper edge of side wall1226. Specifically, an upper edge of hinge strip1272joins with cap1230to form a first bending line1242A, and a lower edge of hinge strip1272joins with side wall1226to form a second bending line1242B. First bending line1242A pivotally affixes the cap1230with the hinge strip1272, and second bending line1242B pivotally affixes the container1220with the hinge strip1272. First and second bending lines1242A,1242B can be formed as recesses, such as the recess42in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-5. Alternatively, first and second bending lines1242A,1242B could be formed as mechanical hinges, or by other means of forming hinges known in the art. The inclusion of two bending lines between the cap1230and container1220allows for greater mobility in pivoting between the two elements.

The assembly ofFIGS. 54-60further includes a locking insert1244. As shown, the locking insert1244sits within the container1220, within a gap1224formed between the side wall1226and the inner lip1278, completely surrounding the inner lip1778in the illustrated embodiment.

Referring toFIGS. 59 and 60, the locking insert1244is shown in detail. As shown, the locking insert1244comprises a body1248that extends in a closed loop around the inner lip1278.The body1248has a shape that generally conforms to that of the inner lip1278, which is rectangular in the illustrated embodiment, but could take on other shapes in embodiments in which the assembly1210takes on other shapes. A portion of the body1248extending along the front side1212of the assembly1210forms a front body1262portion of the body1248.

A top ledge1258extends across the top of front body1262, and forms a top surface thereof. Actuation portions1246A,1246B project outwardly from corners1260A,1260B of locking insert1244located between the front1212and sides1214A,1214B of the assembly1210. Two channels1288A,1288B having inverted “L” shapes extend between the front surface and the bottom surface of the front body1262. Each channel1288A,1288B has a horizontal leg1290extending inward from the front surface of the front body1262and a vertical leg1292extending upward from a bottom surface of the front body1262, to meet the horizontal leg1290.

As shown inFIG. 59, the ledge1258includes a hinge axis1250at the center thereof, with first and second hinge legs1252A,1252B located on opposite sides of the hinge axis1250, between actuation portions1246A,1246B. Hinge legs1252A,1252B each have bottom surfaces1254A,1254B that taper upwards as they extend away from actuation portions1246A,1246B and towards axis1250.

Referring toFIGS. 54-58, the container1220includes openings1232A,1232B located at opposite corners between the front1212and sides1214A,1214B of the assembly1210. Actuation portions1246of the locking insert1244project through openings1232A,1232B. The container further includes first and second dividers1280A,1280B extending in a width-wise direction of the assembly and projecting upward from a top surface of the container base1228within the gap1224and each projecting into an associated one of the vertical legs1292A,1292B of channels1288A,1288B. Each divider includes a forward projecting flange1282A,1282B extending into the associated horizontal leg1290A,1290B, to retain the locking insert1244in place within the container base1228.

In order to open the assembly1220, a user applies inward pressure in directions D1and D2to the actuation portions1246A,1246B, using a sufficient force so as to drive the actuation portions1246A,1246B inward, towards each other, causing pivoting of hinge legs1252A,1252B towards each other in directions R1and R2, driving hinge axis1250upward in direction D3, as shown inFIG. 59. Hinge axis1250then contacts the bottom edge of cap inner sealing ridge1274and pushes it in an upward direction, driving the cap1230away from the container1220to move the assembly1210from the closed position to the opened position.

FIGS. 61-65show another embodiment of a cap and container assembly1310according to the invention.

As shown, the assembly1310includes a container1320having a base1328and a tubular side wall1326extending upward from the base1328. The side wall1326defines an opening1322at an upper edge thereof, and the opening1322leads to an interior1327of the container1320.

Still referring toFIGS. 61-65, the assembly1310of this embodiment further includes a cap1330. The cap1330includes a top wall1331and moves between a closed position, in which the cap1330covers the opening1322, as shown inFIG. 61, and an opened position, in which the opening1322is exposed, as shown inFIG. 64. The cap1330of the illustrated embodiment is pivotally affixed to the container by a hinge1340, located at the rear1316, which allows the cap1330to pivot between the opened and closed positions.

The assembly1310has a generally elliptical shaped cross section, with the side wall1326having a tubular configuration with an elliptical cross section, and the base1328and top wall1331being substantially flat. The assembly1310could be provided in any other suitable configuration known in the art or disclosed herein, taking on, for example, a square, rectangular or cylindrical shape such as those of any of the previously described embodiments.

The cap1330of this embodiment includes an inner sealing ridge1374extending downward from a bottom surface of the top wall1331and located inward with respect to the outer edge1333of the top wall1331. The inner sealing ridge1374and the side wall1326may engage to form a moisture-tight seal. As shown inFIGS. 62 and 63, when the assembly1310is in the closed position, an inner surface of the side wall1326abuts an outer surface of the inner sealing ridge1374to form a moisture-tight seal therebetween. The inner sealing ridge1374of this embodiment includes an outer sealing projection1334at the lower edge and on an outer surface thereof. The outer sealing projection1334and inner surface of the side wall1326form a continuous annular abutment and interference fit to form a moisture-tight seal between the cap1320and container1330.

The cap1330further includes a forwardly extending tab1334, located on the front side1312of the assembly1310, opposite the hinge1340. The tab1334is formed as an extension of the cap top wall1331and extends over a spacer1344formed on the container1320, as described in detail below.

An outer edge1333of cap top wall1331contacts a top edge of the side wall1326when the assembly1310is in the closed position. As shown inFIGS. 61-61, the outer edge of the cap1330and outer surface of side wall1326are substantially flush when the assembly1310is in the closed position. The outer edges of tab1336are flush with the outer surface of the spacer1344. In other embodiments, the side wall1326could extend further out than the cap1330. In any case, the bottom surface of the top wall1331and tab1336are covered by side wall1326and spacer1344, and generally inaccessible to a user when the assembly1310is in the closed position, preventing opening of the assembly1310unless unlocked using the method described below. In some embodiments, the outer edge1333of cap top wall1331could contact the top edge of side wall1326all the way around the perimeter of top wall1331and a moisture-tight seal could be formed between the top wall1331and the container side wall1326, which could be an additional or alternative moisture-tight seal to that formed between inner sealing ridge1374and side wall1326, described above.

The spacer1344is positioned on the container side wall1326, near the opening1322, such that an upper edge of the spacer1344thereof is level with an upper edge of side wall1326. As shown, the spacer1344is formed as a strip that extends outward from the side wall1326and has a first end1343affixed to the side wall1326at a first position directly below the opening1322and a second end1345affixed to the side wall1326at a second position directly below the opening1322. The spacer1344extends outward from the side wall1326in a path conforming to the shape of the outer edge of the tab1336. An opening1352is formed between the spacer1344and the side wall1326, as shown inFIGS. 64 and 65. A cutout1346is defined in a lower section of the spacer1344, forming a portion of the bottom edge thereof. The cutout1346extends upward in a curved path and is configured to accommodate an actuation portion1342of a lock1338affixed to the cap1330, as described in detail below. First and second notches1348A,1348B are cut into the spacer, between the upper surface and opposite ends1343,1345thereof, and thus between the spacer ends1343,1345and side wall1326.

Referring toFIGS. 62-65, the cap1330includes a lock1338. The lock1338is formed as a wall that extends downwardly from the front of tab1336and into the spacer opening1352when the assembly is in the closed position. An actuation portion1342is formed on a front surface of the lock1338, at a bottom edge thereof. The actuation portion1342can be formed as any suitable forward projection, such as a button. When the assembly1310is in the closed position, the actuation portion1342projects outward from the cutout1346of the spacer1344.

The cap1330of the illustrated embodiment further includes a strip1350that extends downwardly from a bottom surface of the tab1336, at a location rearward of the lock1338. The strip1350extends into the spacer opening1352when the assembly1310is in the closed position, and abuts an outer surface of the container side wall1326located rearward of spacer1344. Opposite side edges1354A,1354B of the strip1350protrude out from the notches1348formed at the ends1343,1345of spacer1344. As shown inFIGS. 62 and 62, a portion of side wall1326is retained between strip1350and inner sealing ridge1374when the assembly1310is in the closed position.

When the assembly1330is in the closed and locked position, as shown inFIGS. 61-63, the spacer1344, and in particular spacer cutout1346, interferes with upward movement of the actuation portion1342of spacer1344, which protrudes from beneath cutout1346, and in turn prevents the cap1330from being moved away from the container1320to move the assembly1310into the opened position. In order to open the assembly1310, actuation portion1342must be moved inward with respect to the assembly, by application of sufficient force in direction D. Once the actuation portion1342has been moved inward in direction D to a sufficient extent so as to clear the spacer cutout1346, the assembly1310is in the unlocked position, and the lock1338can be moved through spacer opening1352as the cap1330moves in an upward direction, away from the container1320.

During movement of the cap1330from the closed to the opened position, as described above, the user must also overcome any force retaining the cap1330on the container by way of the interference fit between inner sealing ridge1374and side wall1326. Strip1350helps prevent any inadvertent disengagement between the inner sealing ridge1374and side wall1326during movement between the locked and unlocked position. Inward movement of the spacer1344in direction D could result in some bending of the tab1336and top wall1331, resulting in rotation of the inner sealing ridge1374away from side wall1326, breaking any moisture-tight seal therebetween, as well as the interference fit that helps to retain the cap1330on the container1320. In embodiments including strip1350, the strip1350rotates along with, and to a greater degree than inner sealing ridge1374, due to its closer proximity to spacer1344. During this rotation, strip1350pushes side wall1326inward, so that contact with inner sealing ridge1374may be maintained. According to such an embodiment, a user must first unlock the assembly as described above, and then move the cap1330away from the container1320before the moisture-tight seal is broken.

Each embodiment of the cap and container assembly described herein could be provided with a desiccant, which may be in the form of a desiccant plastic including a base polymer, channeling agent, and desiccant. Such materials are described in, for example U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,911,937; 6,214,255; 6,130,263; 6,080,350; 6,174,952; 6,124,006; and 6,221,446, all to Hekal, and which are incorporated herein by reference. The descant plastic could be provided as a liner, puck, or other type of insert.

Each of the cap and container assemblies described herein could be provided in various sizes as well as various shapes, including the square, rectangular and cylindrical shapes of the other assemblies described herein. The size and shape of any assembly according to the invention may depend on the intended use of the assembly, and the assemblies described herein should not be viewed as having the specific size and/or shape disclosed with respect to that particular embodiment of the assembly. Likewise, the features of each assembly described herein could be combined with the features of any other assembly described herein. An assembly having any combination of the features described herein shall be considered within the scope of the invention.

Any of the assemblies disclosed herein could be provided in a variety of materials, including polymeric materials such as polypropylene. Additionally, different components of any of the assemblies described herein could be formed of the same or different materials. For example, in an assembly having a cap and container with a sealing element, the cap and container could be formed of a rigid polymeric material such as polypropylene, and the sealing element could be formed of an elastomeric material such as rubber.

Any of the cap and container assemblies described herein could be used to house a variety of products including pharmaceuticals, food products, confections, supplements, tobacco products, and nicotine replacement products. The invention should not be viewed as limited to use with any particular type of product.

While the preferred embodiments of the invention have been described in detail above, the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described, which should be considered as merely exemplary.