Patent Publication Number: US-8118040-B2

Title: Sifter device for container

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     The present disclosure relates generally to the field of containers for storing and dispensing materials. The present disclosure more specifically relates to containers for storing and dispensing particular matter, such as a loose powder material (e.g., a cosmetic loose powder, etc.) or any other particulate matter. 
     It is generally known to provide a container for storing loose powder. Such known containers typically include a receptacle for supporting the loose powder and a cover coupled to an open end of the receptacle for sealing the receptacle. Such known containers often include a sifter mechanism having a pattern of openings through which the loose powder can be dispensed. It is also known to provide a sifter mechanism comprising two or more parts, each having a pattern of openings. The parts are intended to be selectively moved relative to each other by a user in a manner that moves the patterns of opening into and out of alignment so as to move the container between an open and closed position. Such known containers are typically large and clumsy thereby making them difficult or burdensome to store in relatively limited spaces (e.g., bags, purses, pockets, etc.). Further, in known containers, the movement of the sifter mechanism is independent from the movement of the other portions of the container (e.g., the cover and/or the receptacle, etc.). As such, a user must separately actuate the sifter mechanism between the open and closed positions. 
     Thus there is a need for a conveniently sized container (such as a cosmetic compact) having a sifter mechanism that can substantially seal off a particulate matter, such as a loose powder, contained therein. There is also a need for a container having a sifter mechanism wherein actuation of a cover and/or base of the container actuates the sifter mechanism between an open and closed position. There is further a need for a container having a sifter mechanism to be capable of supporting an applicator used for applying a particulate matter stored within the container. The is further a need for a container for storing a particulate matter that can be moved to a latched or locked position. Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a container capable of accomplishing any one or more of these or other needs. 
     SUMMARY 
     An exemplary embodiment relates a container for supporting particulate matter. The container includes a base providing a chamber configured to receive particulate matter and a cover coupled to the base and movable relative to the base between a closed position and an open position. The container also includes a sifter supported at the base. The sifter includes a first member having at least one dispensing aperture extending therethrough and a second member having at least one dispensing aperture extending therethrough. The second member is movable between a first position in which the at one dispensing aperture of the first member is at least partially out of alignment with the at least one dispensing aperture of the second member and a second position in which the at one dispensing aperture of the first member is in greater alignment with the at least one dispensing aperture of the second member. The sifter also includes a biasing element coupled to the second member for moving the second member relative to the first member from the first position to the second position when the cover is moved to the open position. 
     Another exemplary embodiment relates to a cosmetic compact. The cosmetic compact includes a base at least partially defining a cavity, a cosmetic material stowed within the cavity and a cover coupled to the base and movable relative to the base between a closed position and an open position. The container also includes a sifter supported at the base. The sifter includes a first sifter plate having at least one dispensing aperture extending therethrough and a second sifter plate having at least one dispensing aperture extending therethrough. The second sifter plate is movable between a first position in which the at one dispensing aperture of the first sifter plate is at least partially out of alignment with the at least one dispensing aperture of the second sifter plate and a second position in which the at one dispensing aperture of the first sifter plate is in greater alignment with the at least one dispensing aperture of the second sifter plate. The sifter also includes a integrally formed with the second sifter plate as a one-piece member, the spring being configured to move the second sifter plate relative to the first sifter plate from the first position to the second position when a user moves the cover to the open position. 
     Another exemplary embodiment relates to a method of manufacturing a container for storing and dispensing a particulate matter. The method includes providing a cover that is coupled to a base and coupling a sifter mechanism into the base. The sifter mechanism includes a first member having at least one dispensing aperture extending therethrough and a second member having at least one dispensing aperture extending therethrough. The second member is movable between a first position in which the at one dispensing aperture of the first member is at least partially out of alignment with the at least one dispensing aperture of the second member and a second position in which the at one dispensing aperture of the first member is in greater alignment with the at least one dispensing aperture of the second member. The sifter also includes a biasing element coupled to the second member for moving the second member relative to the first member from the first position to the second position when the cover is moved to the open position. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is an isomeric view of a container shown according to an exemplary embodiment in an open position. 
         FIG. 2  is an isomeric view of the container of  FIG. 1  shown in a closed position. 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded isomeric view the container of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a detailed isomeric view of a sifter member of the container of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded isometric view of a sifter mechanism of the container of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is an isometric view of the sifter mechanism of the container of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 7  is a side cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 1  when in the open position. 
         FIG. 8  is a top plan view of the sifter mechanism when the container is in the open position. 
         FIG. 9  is a side cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 1  when in the closed position. 
         FIG. 10  is a top plan view of the sifter mechanism when the container is in the closed position. 
         FIG. 11  is an a container shown according to another exemplary embodiment in a open position. 
         FIG. 12  is an exploded isomeric view the container of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 13  is an isomeric view of a sifter member of the container of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 14  is a side cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 11  in an open position. 
         FIG. 15  is a side cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 11  in a closed position. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     A container for storing and dispensing a particulate matter (e.g., a cosmetic loose powder, etc.) is disclosed. The container comprises a first portion (e.g., a bottom, receptacle, base, jar, etc.), a second portion (e.g., a lid, closure, top, cover, etc.) and third portion (e.g., a sifter mechanism, dispensing assembly, etc.). The first portion and the second portion cooperate to provide a conveniently sized storage system suitable for holding the particulate matter. The second portion is coupled to the first portion and is selectively movable by a user relative to the first portion between a first position in which the container is opened and a second position in which the container is closed. The third portion, which is configured to at least partially assist in controlling how and/or when the particulate matter can be dispensed from the container (e.g., the third portion may control the amount of particulate matter that is dispensed, may selectively seal off the particular matter within the container and/or may control the direction or pattern in which particulate matter is dispensed, etc.), is configured to be actuated when the second portion is moved between the first position and the second position. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, the third portion comprises a first member (e.g., platform, sifter plate, etc.) and a second member (e.g., platform, sifter plate, etc.). The first member and the second member cooperate to define one or more dispensing apertures (e.g., an array or pattern of relatively small holes, etc.) through which the particulate matter is configured to be dispensed. According to an exemplary embodiment, the second member is disposed adjacent to the first member and is configured for movement relative to the first member between a first position (e.g., wherein one or more apertures in the first member are at least slightly out of alignment with one or more apertures in the second member) and a second position (e.g., wherein the one or more apertures in the first member are in greater alignment with the one or more apertures in the second member than when in the first position). According to an embodiment, the first member is coupled to the first portion in a manner that impedes the movement of the first member, at least relative to the second member. 
     To facilitate the movement of the second member from the first position to the second position, a biasing element is provided. The biasing element is provided for urging the second member towards the second position when a user selectively moves the second portion to the first position (e.g., when a user selectively opens the container, etc.). According to an exemplary embodiment, the biasing element is a spring that is coupled to the second member. For example, the spring may be integrally formed with the second member as a one-piece unitary body. The biasing element is moved to a loaded (e.g., compressed, etc.) state when the container is moved to the closed position. As the container is moved to the open position, the biasing element is at least partially released and acts against a portion of the container (e.g., a front portion of the second portion, etc.) for moving the second member relative to the first member to the second position. As such, inclusion of the biasing element may allow the movement of the third portion to be substantially synchronized to the opening of the container. 
     One advantageous feature of the third portion is that the container can provide a substantially sealed environment for particulate matter when the container is in the storage position (e.g., a closed and/or latched position, etc.). Providing a substantially sealed environment for particulate matter stored within the container may reduce the likelihood that such particulate matter will undesirably leak or otherwise spill from the container. Further, providing a substantially sealed environment for particulate matter stored within the container may assist in maintaining the freshness or effectiveness of such particulate matter. One advantageous feature of operatively coupling (e.g., linking, coordinating, synchronizing, etc.) the movement of the third portion to the movement of the second portion is that a user may simultaneously, or substantially simultaneously, move the third portion and the second portion to an opened position through a single actuation of the second portion. This may simplify opening and closing the container for a user since once the user moves the container from the closed position to the open position, the third portion is already in a dispensing position in which the particulate matter can be removed from the container. Likewise, to return the container to the closed position, a user only has to close the second portion relative to the first portion thereby causing the third portion to substantially seal the particulate matter without any additional effort on the part of the user. 
     It should be noted at the outset that while the container described herein will be described as a container configured to hold a cosmetic loose powder, the inventions disclosed herein have broad applicability to a variety of container. For example, the inventions disclosed herein may be suitable for with, but not limited to, containers used for holding foodstuff, cleaning products or any other container wherein it would be desirable to provide a sifter mechanism that can be controlled by the movement of the container between a closed position and an open position. Further, while the container described herein is preferably sized to fit conveniently into a user&#39;s bag, purse, pocket, etc., the present inventions are suitable for containers of any size. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1 through 10 , the container is shown according to a first nonexclusive exemplary embodiment as a container  100 . Container  100  is shown as being a substantially rectangular (e.g., square, etc.) container comprising a first portion, shown as a base portion  200 , a second portion, shown as a cover portion  300 , and a third portion, shown as a sifter mechanism  400 . Container  100  is configured as a cosmetic container or compact (e.g., makeup case, etc.) suitable for holding a cosmetic substance (e.g., loose powder, etc.) alone or in combination with a cosmetic accessory, tool or applicator (e.g., pad, sponge, cloth, puff pad, etc.). 
     Container  100  may be sized to conveniently fit into relatively small spaces (e.g., purses, handbags, pockets, briefcases, etc.). For example, container  100  (when closed) may have a width between approximately 1 inch and approximately 6 inches, a length between approximately 1 inch and approximately 6 inches, and a height or thickness between approximately 0.25 inches and approximately 2 inches. According to various alternative embodiments, container  100  may be sized larger or smaller then the dimensions provided above depending on the particular application, and may be provided in any of a variety of shapes (e.g., circular, triangular, etc.). 
     Container  100  is configured to be selectively moved by a user between an open position (shown in  FIG. 1 ) and a closed position (shown in  FIG. 2 ). According to the embodiment illustrated, container  100  is moved between the closed position and the open position by moving the cover portion  300  relative to the base portion  200  while cover portion  300  remains attached to base portion  200 . According to the various alternative embodiments, cover portion  300  may be configured to be detached from base portion  200  when container  100  is moved between the closed position to the open position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 through 3 , base portion  200  of container  100  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Base portion  200  is shown as having an end wall  202  (e.g., platform, bottom, bottom surface, etc.) and a peripheral side wall  204  extending upward therefrom at an orientation that is generally perpendicular to end wall section  202 . Peripheral side wall  204  is generally rectangular in shape and at least partially defines an outer periphery of container  100 . Peripheral side wall  204  is formed of a front wall  206 , a rear wall  208 , and side walls  210  and  212  that form an essentially square configuration. Peripheral side wall  204  may be substantially continuous (as shown), or alternatively, may comprise intermittent sections. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, rear wall  208  includes a cutout portion  214  that provides clearance so that sifter mechanism  400  can be engaged by another portion of container  100  when container  100  is moved towards the closed position. According to the embodiment illustrated, cutout portion  214  is centrally located along an upper portion of rear wall  208 . Cutout portion  214  is defined within rear wall  208  and is shown as being substantially continuous between a pair of side edges  216  and a bottom edge  220 . Configuring cutout portion  214  in such a manner allows a portion of cover portion  300  to engage sifter mechanism  400  when cover portion  300  is coupled to base portion  200  and moved towards the closed position, while still allowing container  100  to have a substantially continuous and uniform outer appearance when in the closed position. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, end wall  202  and peripheral side wall  204  are integrally formed as a single unitary body in a single mold by an injection molding operation to form base portion  200 . According to various alternative embodiments, the end wall section may be coupled to the side wall section in any suitable manner (e.g., snap-fit, welding, etc.). Depending on various design criteria, the profile of end wall  202  may vary. According to the embodiment illustrated, end wall  202  is a substantially planar or flat surface. According to various alternative embodiments, end wall  202  may include portions that are convex, concave, stepped, angled, sloped, etc. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, base portion  200  is configured to receive and support sifter mechanism  400 . Base portion  200  supports sifter mechanism  400  at an orientation spaced apart from end wall  202  a distance sufficient to provide a chamber (e.g., opening, etc.), shown as a cavity  222 , for storing the cosmetic material. The size and shape of cavity  222  may vary depending on a number of design criteria. According to an exemplary embodiment, cavity  222  has a volume between approximately 1.0 cubic inch and approximately 8 cubic inches. According to various alternative embodiments, cavity  222  may have a volume greater than or less than the range provided. Limiting the volume of cavity  222  allows the overall size of container  100  to be minimized, thereby allowing container  100  to be conveniently carried or stowed in relatively size restricted areas (e.g., pockets, purses, backpacks, etc.) by the user. According various alternative embodiments, cavity  222  may be divided into two or more compartments (e.g., storage wells, etc.) for separating multiple cosmetic materials. 
     To support sifter mechanism  400  in an orientation offset from end wall  202 , base portion  200  includes a support member (e.g., ledge, projection, etc.), shown as a plurality of posts  224 , provided along the interior of peripheral side wall  204 . According to an exemplary embodiment, an upper surface of each post  224  is the surface that supports sifter mechanism  400 . According to the embodiment illustrated, posts  224  are provided at a height that allows a bottom portion of sifter mechanism  400  (e.g., a first sifter plate  402 , etc.) to be substantially flush with or above bottom edge  220  of cutout portion  214 . Such a configuration provides an upper portion of sifter mechanism (e.g., a second sifter plate  404 , etc.) with sufficient clearance to pass over bottom edge  220  as sifter mechanism moves between the first and second positions. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 1 through 3 , cover portion  300  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Cover portion  300  is shown as having an end wall  302  (e.g., platform, top, top surface, etc.) and a peripheral side wall  304  (skirt, peripheral surface, etc.) extending downward therefrom at an orientation that is generally perpendicular to end wall  302 . Peripheral side wall  304  is generally rectangular in shape and at least partially defines the outer periphery of the container  100 . Peripheral side wall  304  is formed of a front wall  306 , a rear wall  308  and side walls  310  and  312  which cooperate to form a continuous sidewall. According to various alternative embodiments, peripheral side wall  304  may comprise one or more sections providing for a discontinuous or intermittent peripheral side wall. Peripheral side wall  304  is further shown as comprising a bottom face or surface  315  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) configured to interface (e.g., mate with, engage, contact, etc.) a corresponding structure on base portion  200 . According to various alternative embodiments, peripheral side wall  304  may be adapted to fit over and/or inside a structure surrounding an open end of base portion  200  such as a flange. According to further alternative embodiments, peripheral side wall  304  may be eliminated depending on the configuration of base portion  200 . 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, end wall  302  is orientated generally perpendicular to a central axis of peripheral side wall  304 . According to an exemplary embodiment, end wall  302  and peripheral side wall  304  are integrally formed as a single unitary body in a single mold by an injection molding operation to form cover portion  300 . According to various alternative embodiments, the end wall section may be coupled to the side wall section in any suitable manner (e.g., snap-fit, welding, etc.). Depending on various design criteria, the profile of end wall  302  may vary. According to the embodiment illustrated, end wall  302  is a substantially planar or flat surface. According to various alternative embodiments, end wall  302  may include portions that are convex, concave, stepped, angled, sloped, etc. 
     Cover portion  300  defines a cavity  314  with end wall  302  and peripheral side wall  304 . According to an exemplary embodiment, cavity  314  is sized to receive an accessory, such a mirror, coupled to the underside or inner surface of end wall  302 . The mirror may be coupled to the underside of end wall  302  using any of variety of suitable techniques (e.g., mechanical fasteners, adhesives, welding, etc.). According to another exemplary embodiment, cavity  314  may also be sized to at least partially receive an applicator when cover portion  300  is in the closed position that may be useful in applying a cosmetic substance stored within base portion  200 . For example, cavity  314  may be sized to at least partially receive a cloth, sponge, pad, puff pad or the like that is stored within container  100  when container  100  is in the closed position. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, cover portion  300  is configured to remain coupled to base portion  200  when container  100  is moved between the open and closed positions. According to the embodiment illustrated, cover portion  300  is coupled to the base portion  300  about a hinge  360 . Hinge  360  functions to allow cover portion  300  to be pivoted or rotated relative to base portion  200  between the open position and the closed position. According to an exemplary embodiment, hinge  360  generally comprises a first hinge portion  362  (e.g., projection, sleeve, knuckle, loop, joint, node, curl, etc.) provided at cover portion  300  and a second hinge portion  364  provided at base portion  300 . First hinge portion  362  and second hinge portion  364  cooperate to define one or more bores configured to receive pivot rods or pins  366  that are inserted within the bores to support cover portion  300  relative to base portion  200  and to define a rotational axis about which cover portion  300  rotates relative to base portion  200 . Any of a variety of known or otherwise suitable hinges may be used to pivotally couple cover portion  300  to base portion  200 . 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, base portion  200  and cover portion  300  are formed of resins (plastic or otherwise), including, but not limited to, injection moldeable thermoplastic resin, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer (SAN), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyvinylchloride (PVC), or thermo-plastic elastomers (TPE). According to various alternative embodiments, other suitable materials (e.g., metals, bimetals, composites, wood, etc.) or combinations materials may be used to form base portion  200  and cover portion  300 . 
     Container  100  may also include a latch mechanism to assist in retaining container  100  in the closed position. According to an exemplary embodiment, the latch mechanism may include a user interface, shown as a tab  250  in  FIG. 1 , provided on cover portion  300 , a first latching element provided on cover portion  300  and a corresponding second latching element provided on base portion  200 . According to the embodiment illustrated, the first latching element is a projection  252  that is configured to engage a corresponding recess or notch provided on base portion  200 . According to the various alternative embodiments, any of a variety of latch mechanisms may be provided for selectively securing container  100  in the closed position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 3 through 6 , sifter mechanism  400  of container  100  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Sifter mechanism  400  is configured to control how and/or when particulate matter stored within cavity  222  is dispensed from container  100 . Sifter mechanism  400  may function as a seal that substantially prevents or restricts particulate matter from leaving cavity  222 . Sifter mechanism  400  may also control the direction or pattern in which particulate matter is dispensed from container  100  and/or may control the amount of particulate matter (i.e., the flow rate) that is dispensed from container  100 . 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, sifter mechanism  400  generally includes a first member, shown as a first sifter plate  402 , and a second member, shown as a second sifter plate  404 . Sifter mechanism  400  is configured to move between a first position and a second position by having second sifter plate  404  move relative to first sifter plate  402 . According to the embodiment illustrated, sifter mechanism  400  is configured to substantially seal cavity  222  when in the first position such that the likelihood of leakage or spillage of particulate matter stored within base portion  200  from container  100  and/or into other portions within container  100  can be reduced. When in the second position, particulate matter stored within base portion  200  becomes accessible to a user. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, first sifter plate  402  is a substantially planar (e.g., flat, etc.) member including one or more sifter openings  406  (shown as forty-two relatively small circular openings arranged in a rectangular pattern). Each of sifter openings  406  extend through first sifter plate  402  for providing a conduit through which particulate matter stored within cavity  222  can be dispensed. According to the various alternative embodiments, sifter openings  406  may have any suitable shape, size, number and pattern. For example, first sifter plate  402  may include one sifter opening or it may include two or more sifter openings, and each sifter opening may have a shape and size that is suitable to the application in which the container will be used. For example, one or more of the sifter openings may be circular, rectangular, tear-drop shaped, crescent-shaped, or one of a variety of other suitable shapes. 
     According to the embodiment illustrated, first sifter plate  402  is a bottom sifter plate configured to be received within base portion  200  and supported on posts  224 . According to an exemplary embodiment, first sifter plate  402  is configured to be coupled to base portion  200  in a relatively fixed manner. For example, while first sifter plate  402  may be removable from base portion  200 , first sifter plate  402  is generally restricted from moving (e.g., sliding, etc.) when coupled to base portion  200 . While such coupling may be achieved using a snap-fit or a press-fit arrangement, other arrangements may be used including, but not limited to, an adhesive, a welding operation, a fastener, etc. According to the various alternative embodiments, first sifter plate  402  may be configured to coupled to base portion  200  in a releasable manner. Releasably coupling first sifter plate  402  to base portion  200  may allow a user to replenish (e.g., refill, etc.) cavity  222  with particulate matter. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, first sifter plate  402  includes a retaining structure for securing second sifter plate  404  within container  100 . According to the embodiment illustrated, the retaining structure includes one or more projections  408  provided along the lateral sides of first sifter plate  402 . Projections  408  are shown as substantially L-shaped members having a first portion extending upward from first sifter plate  402  in a substantially vertical direction and second portion extending inward from a distal end of the first portion in a substantially horizontal direction. A channel defined by projections  408  in combination with a top surface of first sifter plate  402  is configured to receive and trap a portion of second sifter plate  404  (e.g., the lateral edges of second sifter plate  404 ) when second sifter plate  404  is assembled with first sifter plate  404 . Projections  408  restrict the movement of second sifter plate  404  in a first direction (e.g., an upward vertical direction, etc.) while permitting movement of second sifter plate  404  in a second direction (e.g., front to back horizontal movement, etc.). As such, projections  408  not only provide a retaining function, but may also provide a guide function for second sifter plate  404  as it slides relative to first sifter plate  402  to move sifter mechanism  400  between the first position and the second position. 
     To further restrict the movement of second sifter plate  404  relative to first sifter plate  402 , first sifter plate  402  is also shown as including a stop member  410 . Stop member  410  is configured to limit how far second sifter plate  404  can move forward in a horizontal direction relative to first sifter plate  402 . According to the embodiment illustrated, stop member  410  is an upwardly extending projection provided at a front end of first sifter plate  402 . 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 3 through 6 , second sifter plate  404  is also shown as being a substantially planar (e.g., flat, etc.) member including one or more sifter openings  412  (shown as forty-two relatively small circular openings arranged in a rectangular pattern). Sifter openings  412  extend through second sifter plate  404  for providing a conduit through which particulate matter stored with cavity  222  can be dispensed when the sifter openings  412  are at least partially aligned with sifter openings  406  in first sifter plate  402 . According to an exemplary embodiment, sifter openings  412  are provided in the same pattern as sifter openings  406  in first sifter plate  402 . According to the various alternative embodiments, sifter openings  412  of second sifter plate  404  may have any suitable shape, size, number and pattern. Further, the configuration and/or layout of sifter openings  412  of second sifter plate  404  may be the same or different than the sifter openings in first sifter plate  402 . 
     According to embodiment illustrated, second sifter plate  404  is an upper sifter plate configured to be supported on first sifter plate  402 . Second sifter plate  404  includes an attachment structure, shown as cut-outs or notches  414 , configured to receive projections  408  provided on first sifter plate  402 , at least during an initial assembly of sifter mechanism  400 . According to an exemplary embodiment, second sifter plate  404  includes four notches  414  that are generally rectangular in shape and configured to receive projections  208  of first sifter plate  402 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6  in particular, to assemble sifter mechanism  400 , notches  414  are initially aligned with projections  408  and second sifter plate  404  is dropped in a substantially vertical direction onto first sifter plate  402 . After second sifter plate  404  is dropped onto first sifter plate  402 , second sifter plate  404  is moved (e.g., slid, etc.) in a substantially horizontal direction relative to first sifter plate  402  to misalign notches  414  and projections  408 . For example, second sifter plate  404  may be moved in a rearward direction until second sifter plate  404  snaps over stop member  410  and is restricted from moving in a forward direction by stop member  410 . With notches  414  misaligned from projections  408 , second sifter plate  404  is captured by first sifter plate  402 , at least in a vertical direction. During the manufacturing process of container  100 , the subassembly of first sifter plate  402  and second sifter plate  404  can be installed into base portion  200  as a single unit which may provide for a more efficient assembly. 
     To assist in moving second sifter plate  404  relative to first sifter plate  402  when container  100  is moved to the closed position, second sifter plate  404  includes a rear wall  416  that is shown as extending in a substantially upright direction relative to the rest of second sifter plate  404 . According to the embodiment illustrated, rear wall  416  is shown as being substantially perpendicular to the rest of second sifter plate  404 . Rear wall  416  is configured to be engaged by a portion of cover portion  300  as container  100  is moved to the closed position. According to the embodiment illustrated, rear wall  416  is configured to be engaged by first hinge portion  362 . The engagement between first hinge portion  362  and rear wall  416  causes second sifter plate  404  to slide forward relative to first sifter plate  402 . According to the various alternative embodiments, rear wall  416  may be eliminated and first hinge portion  362 , or another portion of cover portion  300 , may be configured to engage a rear edge of second sifter plate  404 . 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , second sifter plate  402  also includes a biasing element for moving second sifter plate  404  relative to first sifter plate  402  so that one or more of sifter openings  412  in second sifter plate  404  are in at least partial alignment with one or more of sifter openings  406  in first sifter plate  402  when a user has selectively moved container  100  to the open position. According to an exemplary embodiment, the biasing element is a spring  420  provided at a front portion of second sifter plate  404 . According to the embodiment illustrated, spring  420  is coupled to a front portion of second sifter plate  404  by being integrally formed (e.g., molded, etc.) with second sifter plate  404  to provide a unitary one-piece body. According to the various alternative embodiments, spring  420  may be coupled to second sifter plate  404  in positions other than the front portion and/or may be a separate member coupled to second sifter plate  404  using a suitable fastening technique (e.g., a fastener, press-fit, welding, adhesives, etc.). 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, spring  420  includes a first spring arm  422  and a second spring arm  424 . First spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  are both shown as including a first end that is coupled to second sifter plate  404  and a second end that is substantially free or unsupported. The first ends of first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  are shown as being coupled to a central portion of second sifter plate  404 . The space separating first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  is the portion of second sifter plate  404  that is configured to engage stop member  410 . According to the embodiment illustrated, first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  extend outward in opposite directions from their respective first ends and do not extend past the lateral side edges of second sifter plate  404 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 4  in particular, first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  have a height (e.g., thickness, etc.) that is substantially the same as the height of second sifter plate  404 . Such a configuration may allow first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  to have a top surface that is substantially coplanar with the top surface of the portion of second sifter plate  404  that defines sifter openings  412  and/or a bottom surface that is substantially coplanar with the bottom surface of the portion of second sifter plate  404  that defines sifter openings  412 . 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  extend outward from their respective first ends in a curved manner. For example, first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  are shown as being somewhat arcuate (e.g., bow-shaped, etc.) in shape. In such an embodiment, the inner portion of the curve faces the remainder of second sifter plate  404 . According to the various alternative embodiments, first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  may be provided in any of a variety of shapes (e.g., S-shaped, V-shaped, straight arms, etc.). 
     First spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  are configured to engage an inner surface of front wall  206  of base portion  200 . When container  100  is moved to the closed position, second sifter plate  404  is pushed (e.g., slid, etc.) forward relative to first sifter plate  402  to move sifter openings  412  of second sifter plate  404  out of alignment with sifter openings  406  of first sifter plate  402 . As second sifter plate  404  is moved forward, first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  are loaded (e.g., compressed, etc.) against the inner surface of front wall  206 . A space or gap behind first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  allows the spring arms to flex inward as they are being loaded. 
     First spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  are at least partially released when the force applied to second sifter plate  404  by cover portion  300  is removed. As such, when container  100  is moved to an open position, first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  are at least partially unloaded or released thereby causing first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  to push off of the inner surface of front side wall  206 . Such a reaction causes second sifter plate  404  to slide relative to first sifter plate  402  in a rearward direction so that sifter openings  412  in second sifter plate  404  are in at least partial engagement with sifter openings  406  in first sifter plate  402  and particulate matter can be removed from cavity  222 . According to an exemplary embodiment, the range of movement of first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  is approximately 0.100 inches between the loaded and unloaded states. According to the various alternative embodiments, this range of movement can be adjusted to accommodate different applications. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 7 through 10 , the operation of container  100  will be described according to one nonexclusive exemplary embodiment.  FIG. 7  shows container  100  in the open position (e.g., use position). To achieve the open position, a user must first rotate or pivot cover portion  300  about hinge  360  while holding or otherwise securing base portion  200 . Before rotating cover portion  300 , a user may first need to actuate latch mechanism  250  to release cover portion  300  from base portion  200 . 
     Once in the open position, sifter openings  412  of second sifter plate  404  are at least partially aligned with sifter openings  406  of first sifter plate  402  so that particulate matter can be dispensed from cavity  222 . Particulate matter can be dispensed from cavity  222  by using an applicator, such as a puff pad or cloth, that may be stored on top of second sifter plate  404 . If an applicator is not provided, the user may tilt container  100  to dispense such particulate matter through one or more of the sifter openings. 
     Referring to  FIG. 8 , in the open position, first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  engage the inner surface of front wall  206  to move second sifter plate  404  into this aligned position. As shown in this view, notches  414  are out of alignment with projections  408  so it is unlikely that second sifter plate  404  will become inadvertently disengaged from first sifter plate  402 . 
     To return container  100  to the closed position, the user rotates cover portion  300  downward until latch mechanism  250  is engaged. Referring to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , as cover portion  300  rotates downward, first hinge portion  362  engages rear wall  416  of second sifter plate  404  and pushes second sifter plate  404  forward relative to first sifter plate  402 . Second sifter plate  404  is moved forward a sufficient distance so that sifter openings  412  in second sifter plate  404  are at least partially misaligned with sifter openings  406  in first sifter plate  402 . As second sifter plate  404  is moved forward, first spring arm  422  and second spring arm  424  engage the inner surface of front wall  206  and are moved to a loaded or compressed position. 
     In the closed position, particulate matter stored within in cavity  222  is substantially sealed off from by sifter mechanism  400 . To seal off cavity, second sifter plate  404  is orientated relative to first sifter plate  402  such that sifter openings  412  in second sifter plate  404  are at least partially out of alignment with sifter openings  406  in first plate  402 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11 through 15 , the container is shown according to a second exemplary embodiment as a container  1100 . For brevity, the description of container  1100  will be generally limited to its differences relative to container  100  described above. For convenience, elements of container  1100  that are substantially similar to corresponding elements of container  100  will be identified by the same reference numerals but preceded by a “1.” 
     Container  1100  differs from container  100  described above in that spring  1420  provided on second sifter plate  1404  has been modified. As shown in  FIG. 13 , first spring arm  1422  and second spring arm  1424  are relatively straight arms that having first ends coupled to the lateral side edges of second sifter plate  1404  rather than at a central portion of second sifter plate  1404 . First spring arm  1422  and second spring arm  1422  also include engagement tabs  1423  provided at their respective second ends. Engagement tabs  1423  are shown as having an increased depth relative to the remainder of the spring arms and are the portion of spring  1420  that is configured to engage the inner surface of front wall  1206 . 
     Container  1100  also differs from container  100  described above in that container  1100  includes a trim piece (e.g., frame, etc.), shown as a bezel  1500 . Bezel  1500  is configured to be coupled to base portion  1200  over sifter mechanism  1400  to trap sifter mechanism  1400 . Bezel  1500  is a frame that surrounds the dispensing apertures of sifter mechanism  1400 . According to an exemplary embodiment, bezel  1500  is coupled to base portion  1200  via a snap-fit by engaging projections  1502  provided on base portion  1200 . According to the various alternative embodiments, bezel  1500  may be coupled to base portion  1200  using any of a variety of suitable techniques (e.g., press-fit, adhesives, welding, fasteners, etc.). Bezel  1500  includes an outer perimeter that is configured to conceal spring  1420  when installed onto base portion  1200 . Such a configuration may prevent spring  1420  from becoming contaminated or unintentionally interfered with by a user. At a front portion of the outer perimeter, bezel  1500  includes an aperture or cutout  1504  that provides clearance for latch mechanism  1250 . 
     Container  1100  further differs from container  100  described above in that container  1100  includes a projection, shown as a tab  1368 , provided on first hinge portion  1362  for engaging second sifter plate  1404 . Tab  1368  includes a camming surface configured to engage second sifter plate  1404  for pushing second sifter plate  1404  in a forward direction when cover portion  1300  pivoted downward relative to base portion  1200 . The camming surface is shaped to engage second sifter plate  1404  without engaging first sifter plate  1402 . The engagement of tab  1368  with second sifter plate  1404  is shown in  FIG. 15 . According to the embodiment illustrated, second sifter plate  1404  does not include a rear wall  1416  so tab  1368  is shown as engaging a rear edge of second sifter plate  1404  rather than a rear wall. 
     As one of skill in the art will appreciate from the foregoing disclosure, the present disclosure relates to a number of containers wherein the movement of a cover portion is used to control the movement of a sifter mechanism. It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the container as shown in the exemplary embodiment are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present inventions have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited in the claims. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Further, the container may be configured in a wide variety of shapes to accommodate varying design criteria. According to various alternative embodiments, the container may be configured into other sizes, as well as other well-known or otherwise suitable shapes having linear and/or nonlinear edges and surfaces. For example, the container may be a generally rectangular or octagonal container. Further, for purposes of this disclosure the term particulate matter is used broadly to refer to any particulate substance (e.g., powder-like substances, granular substances, or the like, etc.) including cosmetic substances, food substances, cleaning soaps, medical substances, etc. According to various other exemplary embodiments, the container may be configured to support a fluid. 
     Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.