Abstract:
The present invention, in one aspect, is directed to a system of containers having interchangeable container bodies ( 110, 210 ) and closures ( 150, 250 ). The system comprises at least two container bodies having different three-dimensional geometries and at least two closures having different three-dimensional geometries. Each of the closures comprises a fitment that can be coupled to a coupling structure ( 130, 230 ) of each of the container bodies, thereby affording each of the closures the ability to be coupled to each of the container bodies, and vice versa. As a result, the formation of only two different closures and two different container bodies results in the ability to create four different containers by simply rearranging the closure/container body combination.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates to containers, and specifically to containers that include separate components, such as a container body and a closure that are coupled together to create a desired aesthetic. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The distribution of personal care products, such as body washes, lotions, liquid soaps, and other flowable products in multi-component containers is known in the art. In one type of known multi-component container, the container comprises two separate components, namely a container body and a closure. The closure is coupled to the container body, typically through an operable mating between a coupling structure of the container body and a fitment of the closure. The closure often includes a lid for opening and closing a dispensing orifice that is in fluid communication with the passageway of the nozzle. 
         [0003]    In existing containers that include a container body and a closure, the coupling structure of the container body and the fitment of the closure are specifically designed to operably mate only with one another. As a result, the container body of any specific container can only be coupled with the single closure that is specifically designed for that particular container. Thus, existing containers do not allow manufacturers to provide aesthetically different containers without creating different molds and retooling. While efforts have been made to create aesthetically different closures that can be used on the same container body, these efforts fall short in that they are limited by the aesthetics of the single container body. As a result, the potential number of aesthetically different containers is limited. 
         [0004]    Therefore, a need exists for a system of containers that allows manufacturers to combine a plurality of aesthetically different closures with a plurality of aesthetically different container bodies, thereby maximizing the number of achievable aesthetically different containers. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0005]    The present invention, in one aspect, is directed to a system of containers having interchangeable container bodies and closures. The system comprises at least two container bodies having different three-dimensional geometries and at least two closures having different three-dimensional geometries. Each of the closures comprises a fitment that can be coupled to a coupling structure of each of the container bodies, thereby affording each of the closures the ability to be coupled to each of the container bodies, and vice versa. As a result, the formation of only two different closures and two different container bodies results in the ability to create four different containers by simply rearranging the closure/container body combination. 
         [0006]    In one embodiment, the invention can be a system of containers having interchangeable components comprising: a first container body comprising: a first product containing portion; a first shoulder portion having a first annular edge; and a first nozzle; a second container body comprising: a second product containing portion; a second shoulder portion having a second annular edge; and a second nozzle; a first closure comprising: a first closure body; and a first fitment, the first closure body comprising: a first closure wall having a first dispensing orifice; a first lid for opening and closing the first dispensing orifice; and a first annular skirt terminating in a third annular edge; a second closure comprising: a second closure body; and a second fitment, the second closure body comprising: a second closure wall having a second dispensing orifice; a second lid for opening and closing the second dispensing orifice; and a second annular skirt terminating in a fourth annular edge; each of the first product containing portion, the second product containing portion, the first closure body, and the second closure body having a three-dimensional geometry that is different from one another; and each of the first, second, third, and fourth annular edges having a configuration that is substantially identical to one another; the first fitment configured to: (1) couple the first closure to the first container body so that the first and third annular edges mate with one another and the first dispensing orifice is in fluid communication with a passageway of the first nozzle, thereby creating a first container; and (2) in the alternative, couple the first closure to the second container body so that the second and third annular edges mate with one another and the first dispensing orifice is in fluid communication with a passageway of the second nozzle, thereby creating a second container; and the second fitment configured to: (1) couple the second closure to the first container body so that the first and fourth annular edges mate with one another and the second dispensing orifice is in fluid communication with the passageway of the first nozzle, thereby creating a third container; and (2) in the alternative, couple the second closure to the second container body so that the second and fourth annular edges mate with one another and the second dispensing orifice is in fluid communication with the passageway of the second nozzle, thereby creating a fourth container. 
         [0007]    In another embodiment, the invention can be a system of containers having interchangeable components comprising: a first container body comprising: a first product containing portion having a first three-dimensional geometry; and a first nozzle; a second container body comprising: a second product containing portion having a second three-dimensional geometry; and a second nozzle; a first closure comprising: a first closure body having a third three-dimensional geometry; and a first fitment; a second closure comprising: a second closure body having a fourth three-dimensional geometry; and a second fitment; each of the first, second, third and fourth three-dimensional geometries being different from one another; the first fitment configured to: (1) couple the first closure to the first container body to create a first container; and (2) in the alternative, couple the first closure to the second container body to create a second container; and the second fitment configured to: (1) couple the second closure to the first container body to create a third container; and (2) in the alternative, couple the second closure to the second container body to create a fourth container. 
         [0008]    In yet another embodiment, the invention can be a system of containers having interchangeable components comprising: a first container body comprising: a first product containing portion having a first three-dimensional geometry; and a first coupling structure; a second container body comprising: a second product containing portion having a second three-dimensional geometry; and a second coupling structure that is substantially identical to the first coupling structure; a first closure comprising: a first closure body having a third three-dimensional geometry; and a first fitment; a second closure comprising: a second closure body having a fourth three-dimensional geometry; and a second fitment that is substantially identical to the first coupling structure; each of the first, second, third and fourth three-dimensional geometries being different from one another; and wherein each of the first and second fitments can be coupled to each of the first and second coupling structures. 
         [0009]    In still another embodiment, the invention can be a method of manufacturing four containers comprising: a) forming a plurality of first container bodies comprising: a first product containing portion having a first three-dimensional geometry; a first nozzle, and a first coupling structure; b) forming a plurality of second container bodies comprising: a second product containing portion having a second three-dimensional geometry; a second nozzle; and a second coupling structure; c) forming a plurality of first closures comprising: a first closure body having a third three-dimensional geometry; and a first fitment; d) forming a plurality of second closures comprising: a second closure body having a fourth three-dimensional geometry; and a second fitment; wherein each of the first, second, third and fourth three-dimensional geometries are different from one another; and (e) coupling one of the first and second closures to one of the first and second container bodies via operable mating between the first or second fitment and the first or second coupling structure to form a container. 
         [0010]    Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0011]    The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
           [0012]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a first container according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0013]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a second container according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0014]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a third container according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0015]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a fourth container according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0016]      FIG. 5  is a rear view of the universal shoulder portion that is provided on both container bodies that are used in the containers of  FIGS. 1-4  according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0017]      FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the universal shoulder portion of  FIG. 5 ; 
           [0018]      FIG. 7  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the first container of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0019]      FIG. 8  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the second container of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0020]      FIG. 9  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the third container of  FIG. 3 ; and 
           [0021]      FIG. 10  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fourth container of  FIG. 4 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0022]    The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses. 
         [0023]    The description of illustrative embodiments according to principles of the present invention is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description of embodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivative thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless explicitly indicated as such. Terms such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. Moreover, the features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference to the exemplified embodiments. Accordingly, the invention expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of the invention being defined by the claims appended hereto. 
         [0024]    In the description of embodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present invention. Moreover, the features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference to exemplified embodiments. Accordingly, the invention expressly should not be limited to such exemplified embodiments illustrating some possible but non-limiting combination of features that may be provided alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of the invention being defined by the claims appended hereto. 
         [0025]    Referring first to FIGS.  1  and  5 - 7  concurrently, a first container  100  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The first container  100  generally comprises a first container body  110  and a first closure  150 . The first closure  150  is coupled to the first container body  110  (as described in further detail below) to create the first container  100 . In the exemplified embodiment, the first container  100  is a self-standing elongated container that extends along a longitudinal axis A 1 -A 1 . 
         [0026]    The first container body  110  comprises a first product containing portion  111 , a first shoulder portion  112  and a first nozzle  113 . In the exemplified embodiment, the first product containing portion  111 , the first shoulder portion  112  and the first nozzle  113  are an integrally formed unitary structure. However, in alternate embodiments, the first product containing portion  111 , the first shoulder portion  112  and the first nozzle  113  can be formed as one or more separate components that are coupled together at a later stage of manufacturing via a thermal welding, sonic welding, adhesion, tight-fit assembly, or other coupling, fusion and/or bonding process. 
         [0027]    The first container body  110  is preferably formed of a thermoplastic, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polymethyl methacrylate, polystyrene, and polycarbonate, etc. The first container body  110  can be formed by standard thermoplastic forming techniques, such as blow-molding, injection molding, gas-assist injection molding, or combinations thereof. 
         [0028]    The first product containing portion  111  comprises a first upstanding wall  114  and a first lower end wall  115  that, together with the first shoulder portion  112 , collectively define a first product cavity  116  in which a first flowable product is stored. The first lower end wall  115  is a substantially flat wall that extends substantially normal to the longitudinal axis A 1 -A 1 . As a result, the first lower end wall  115  acts a support surface that allows the first container  100 , when positioned on a horizontal surface, to assume a self-supporting upright orientation. The first lower end wall  115  seals a bottom end of the first product cavity  116  so that the first flowable product contained within the first product cavity  116  does not leak therefrom. 
         [0029]    The first product containing portion  111  extends from a first lower end  117  to a first upper end  118 . The first lower end wall  115  is located at the first lower end  117  of the first product containing portion  111 . At the first upper end  118  of the first product containing portion  111 , the first container body  110  transitions into the first shoulder portion  112 . The first shoulder portion  112  extends radially inward from the first upper end  118  of the first product containing portion  111 . The first nozzle  113  protrudes from the first shoulder portion  112 , extending in a longitudinal direction away from the first product containing portion  111 . 
         [0030]    The first nozzle  113  is a tubular structure extending from a base  127  to a top edge  128  and defining a first passageway  119  that is in fluid communication with the first product cavity  116 . Thus, the first flowable product can be dispensed from the first product cavity  116  through the first passageway  119 . In one embodiment, the first upstanding wall  114  of the first product containing portion  111  is compressible radially inward so that the first product can be dispensed from the first container  100 . The first nozzle  113  comprises a first inner surface  120  that defines the first passageway  119  and a first outer surface  121 . 
         [0031]    The first shoulder portion  112  circumferentially surrounds and extends radially outward from the base  127  of the first nozzle  113 . The first shoulder portion  112  comprises a first annular edge  122 . In the exemplified embodiment, the first annular edge  122  is an annular transverse ledge that circumscribes the first shoulder portion  112 , thereby forming a step-like transition between the first shoulder portion  112  and the first product containing portion  111 . In other embodiments, the first annular edge  122  may simply be the annular periphery of the first shoulder portion  112 . The first annular edge  122  forms a closed-perimeter of the periphery of the first shoulder portion  112 . Conceptually, the first annular edge  122  can be thought of as delimiting the first product containing portion  111 . 
         [0032]    In the exemplified embodiment, the first annular edge  122  has a three-dimensional configuration. Thus, in reference to a Cartesian Coordinate System in which the Y-axis is coincident with the longitudinal axis A 1 -A 1 , the first annular edge  122  varies in the Y-direction in addition to forming a closed-perimeter geometry when viewed from the X-Z plane (shown in  FIG. 6 ). More specifically, in the exemplified embodiment, the first annular edge  122  undulates in the Y-direction so as to define peaks  123 A-B and valleys  124 A-B. In alternate embodiments, the first annular edge  122  may have a substantially two-dimensioned configuration, thereby lying substantially flat within a single plane. 
         [0033]    The first product containing portion  111  has a first inner surface  125  and a first outer surface  126 . The first inner surface  125  defines the first product cavity  116  while the first outer surface  126  is visible to the user. The first product containing portion  111  has a first three-dimensional geometry which is imparted by a combination of the surface contours of the first outer surface  126  and the shape/silhouette of the first product containing portion  111 . In the exemplified embodiment, the first three-dimensional geometry is a slender tubular structure having an oval transverse cross-sectional profile, having a tapered waist at a lower section thereof and a heart-like contouring of the first outer surface  126 . Of course, the invention is not so limited and the first three-dimensional geometry can take on a wide variety of embodiments, none of which are limiting of the present invention unless specifically claimed. 
         [0034]    The first container body  110  further comprises a first coupling structure  130 . The first coupling structure  130  is provided to: (1) operably mate with the first fitment  152  of the first closure  150  to effectuate the desired coupling between the first closure  150  and the first container body  110 ; and (2) in the alternative, operably mate with the second fitment  252  of the second closure  250  to effectuate the desired coupling between the first closure  150  and the second container body  210 . In the exemplified embodiment, the first coupling structure  130  is located on the first nozzle  113 . However, in other embodiments, the first coupling structure  130  can be located on the first annular shoulder  112  instead of or in addition to the first nozzle  113 . Further, in the exemplified embodiment, the first coupling structure  130  is in the form of a first annular groove  131  and a first annular flange  132  located on the first outer surface  121  of the first nozzle  113 . As discussed in greater detail below, the first annular groove  131  and the first annular flange  132  are designed to snap-lock into mating engagement with the first fitment  152 . In alternate embodiments, the first coupling structure  130  can take on a wide variety of structures and utilize a wide variety of mechanisms of action to operably mate with the first fitment  152 . For example, in certain alternate embodiments, the first coupling structure  150  could comprise threads, tangs, notches, ribs, cam surfaces, cam followers, pins and other structures/assemblies that are known in the art for coupling components together. 
         [0035]    Referring now to  FIGS. 1 and 7  concurrently, the structural details of the first closure  150  will be described in greater detail. In one embodiment, the first closure  150  can be constructed of a hard plastic. Suitable hard plastics include polymers and copolymers of ethylene, propylene, butadiene, vinyl compounds and polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate. Of course, other materials of construction can be utilized as desired. 
         [0036]    The first closure  150  generally comprises a first closure body  151  and a first fitment  152 . The first closure body  151  has a first outer surface  164 . The first closure body  151  has a third three-dimensional geometry which is imparted by a combination of the surface contours of the first outer surface  164  and the shape/silhouette of the first closure body  151 . In the exemplified embodiment, the third three-dimensional geometry is a rounded dome-like structure having an oval transverse cross-sectional profile. Of course, the invention is not so limited and the third three-dimensional geometry can take on a wide variety of embodiments, none of which are limiting of the present invention unless specifically claimed. 
         [0037]    The first closure body  151  comprises a first closure wall  153 , a first annular skirt  154  and a first lid  155 . The first closure wall  153  comprises a first dispensing orifice  156 . When the first closure  150  is coupled to the first container body  110  to form the first container  100 , the first dispensing orifice  159  is in fluid communication with the first passageway  119  of the first nozzle  113  so that the first flowable product within the first product cavity  116  can be dispensed therethrough during use. 
         [0038]    The first annular skirt  154  is a tubular structure that extends downward from the first closure wall  153 . The first annular skirt  154  terminates in a third annular edge  156 . The third annular edge  156  of the first annular skirt  154  has a configuration that is identical to the configuration of the first annular edge  122  of the first shoulder portion  112  of the first container body  110 . Thus, in the exemplified embodiment, the third annular edge  156  has a three-dimensional configuration that is identical to the three-dimensional configuration of the first annular edge  122 . Similar to the first annular edge  122 , the third annular edge  156  varies in the Y-direction in addition to forming a closed-perimeter geometry when viewed from the X-Z plane (using the Cartesian Coordinate System identified in  FIG. 6 ). More specifically, in the exemplified embodiment, the third annular edge  156  undulates in the Y-direction so as to define peaks  157 A-B and valleys  158 A-B. As with the first annular edge  122 , the third annular edge  156  may have a substantially two-dimensioned configuration in certain alternate embodiments, thereby lying substantially flat within a single plane. 
         [0039]    The first lid  155  is hingedly coupled to the first closure wall  153  so that the first lid  155  can be alternated between an open position (not shown) in which the first dispensing orifice  159  is open and a closed position (shown in  FIG. 1 ) in which the first dispensing orifice  159  is closed. While the hinge that couples the first lid  155  to the first closure wall  153  is not shown, the hinge may be a traditional pin-slot hinge or a living hinge. Moreover, while the first lid  155  is hingedly coupled to the first closure wall  153  in the exemplified embodiment, the first lid  155  can be hingedly coupled to other portions of the first closure  150  in alternate embodiments. In addition, in other embodiments, the first lid  155  may be coupled to the first closure  150  via snap-fit connection, frictional-fit connection, pivotal connection, slidable connection, and other suitable mechanical coupling means. 
         [0040]    In the exemplified embodiment, the first fitment  152  is in the form of an annular tubular structure  160  that circumscribes the first outer surface  121  of the first nozzle  113  when the first closure  150  is coupled to the first container body  110 . A first flange  161  protrudes radially inward from a first inner surface  162  of the annular tubular structure  160 . The first flange  161  snap-fits into the first groove  131  of the first coupling structure  130  of the first container body  110 . The first flange  161  can be an annular flange or can comprise a plurality of circumferentially spaced-apart flange segments. The annular tubular structure  160  can be a continuous annular structure or can be comprised of a plurality of annular segments that are circumferentially spaced-apart from one another. Further, in certain other embodiments, the annular tubular structure  160  can be located within the first nozzle  113  and comprise a radially outward extending flange. 
         [0041]    While the first fitment  152  is exemplified as a snap-fit annular structure  160 , the invention is not so limited. In alternate embodiments, the first fitment  152  can take the form of threads, tangs, notches, ribs, cam surfaces, cam followers, pins and other structures/assemblies that are known in the art for coupling components together and that would operably mate with the first coupling structure  130 . 
         [0042]    When the first closure  150  is coupled to the first container body  110  to form the first container  100 , the first annular edge  122  and the third annular edge  156  mate with one another and are in substantially continuous surface contact along their lengths. As a result, a first surface contact interface  163  is formed between the first annular edge  122  and the third annular edge  156 . Moreover, the first outer surface  164  of the first closure body  151  is substantially flush with the first outer surface  126  of the first product containing portion  111  at the interface  163 . 
         [0043]    Referring now to  FIGS. 2 ,  5 - 6  and  8  concurrently, a second container  200  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The second container  200  generally comprises a second container body  210  and a second closure  250 . The second closure  250  is coupled to the second container body  210  (as described in further detail below) to create the second container  200 . In the exemplified embodiment, the second container  200  is a self-standing elongated container that extends along a longitudinal axis A 2 -A 2 . 
         [0044]    The second container body  210  comprises a second product containing portion  211 , a second shoulder portion  212  and a second nozzle  213 . In the exemplified embodiment, the second product containing portion  211 , the second shoulder portion  212  and the second nozzle  213  are an integrally formed unitary structure. However, in alternate embodiments, the second product containing portion  211 , the second shoulder portion  212  and the second nozzle  213  can be formed as one or more separate components that are coupled together at a later stage of manufacturing via a thermal welding, sonic welding, adhesion, tight-fit assembly, or other coupling, fusion and/or bonding process. 
         [0045]    The second container body  210  is preferably formed of a thermoplastic, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polymethyl methacrylate, polystyrene, and polycarbonate, etc. The second container body  210  can be formed by standard thermoplastic forming techniques, such as blow-molding, injection molding, gas-assist injection molding, or combinations thereof. 
         [0046]    The second product containing portion  211  comprises a second upstanding wall  214  and a first lower end wall  215  that, together with the second shoulder portion  212 , collectively define a second product cavity  216  in which a second flowable product is stored. The first lower end wall  215  is a substantially flat wall that extends substantially normal to the longitudinal axis A 2 -A 2 . As a result, the first lower end wall  215  acts a support surface that allows the second container  200 , when positioned on a horizontal surface, to assume a self-supporting upright orientation. The first lower end wall  215  seals a bottom end of the second product cavity  216  so that the second flowable product contained within the second product cavity  216  does not leak therefrom. 
         [0047]    The second product containing portion  211  extends from a second lower end  217  to a second upper end  218 . The first lower end wall  215  is located at the second lower end  217  of the second product containing portion  211 . At the second upper end  218  of second product containing portion  211 , the second container body  210  transitions into the second shoulder portion  212 . The second shoulder portion  212  extends radially inward from the second upper end  218  of the second product containing portion  211 . The second nozzle  213  protrudes from the second shoulder portion  212 , extending in a longitudinal direction away from the second product containing portion  211 . 
         [0048]    The second nozzle  213  is a tubular structure extending from a base  227  to a top edge  228  and defining a second passageway  219  that is in fluid communication with the second product cavity  216 . Thus, the second flowable product within the second product cavity  216  can be dispensed through the second passageway  219 . In one embodiment, the second upstanding wall  214  of the second product containing portion  211  is compressible radially inward so that the second flowable product can be dispensed from the second container  200 . The second nozzle  213  comprises a second inner surface  220  that defines the second passageway  219  and a second outer surface  221 . 
         [0049]    The second shoulder portion  212  circumferentially surrounds and extends radially outward from the base  227  of the second nozzle  213 . The second shoulder portion  212  comprises a second annular edge  222 . In the exemplified embodiment, the second annular edge  222  is an annular transverse ledge that circumscribes the second shoulder portion  212 , thereby forming a step-like transition between the second shoulder portion  212  and the second product containing portion  211 . In other embodiments, the second annular edge  222  may simply be the annular periphery of the second shoulder portion  212 . The second annular edge  222  forms a closed-perimeter of the periphery of the second shoulder portion  212 . Conceptually, the second annular edge  222  can be thought of as delimiting the second product containing portion  211 . 
         [0050]    In the exemplified embodiment, the second annular edge  222  has a three-dimensional configuration (and is identical to the first annular edge  122 ). Thus, in reference to a Cartesian Coordinate System in which the Y-axis is coincident with the longitudinal axis A 2 -A 2 , the second annular edge  222  varies in the Y-direction in addition to forming a closed-perimeter geometry when viewed from the X-Z plane (shown in  FIG. 6 ). More specifically, in the exemplified embodiment, the second annular edge  212  undulates in the Y-direction so as to define peaks  223 A-B and valleys  224 A-B. In alternate embodiments, the second annular edge  222  may have a substantially two-dimensioned configuration, thereby lying substantially flat within a single plane. 
         [0051]    The second product containing portion  211  has a second inner surface  225  and a second outer surface  226 . The second inner surface  225  defines the second product cavity  216  while the second outer surface  226  is visible to the user. The second product containing portion  211  has a second three-dimensional geometry which is imparted by a combination of the surface contours of the second outer surface  226  and the shape/silhouette of the second product containing portion  211 . In the exemplified embodiment, the second three-dimensional geometry is a slender tubular structure having an oval transverse cross-sectional profile, having a tapered bottom end. Of course, the invention is not so limited and the second three-dimensional geometry can take on a wide variety of embodiments, none of which are limiting of the present invention unless specifically claimed. The second three-dimensional geometry of the second product containing portion  211  is different than first three-dimensional geometry of the first product containing portion  111 . 
         [0052]    The second container body  210  further comprises a second coupling structure  230 . The second coupling structure  230  is provided to: (1) operably mate with the first fitment  152  of the first closure  150  to effectuate the desired coupling between the first closure  150  and the second container body  210 ; and (2) in the alternative, operably mate with the second fitment  252  of the second closure  250  to effectuate the desired coupling between the second closure  250  and the second container body  210 . In the exemplified embodiment, the second coupling structure  230  is located on the second nozzle  213 . However, in other embodiments, the second coupling structure  230  can be located on the second annular shoulder  212  instead of or in addition to the second nozzle  213 . Further, in the exemplified embodiment, the second coupling structure  230  is in the form of a second annular groove  231  and a second annular flange  232  located on the second outer surface  221  of the second nozzle  213 . As discussed in greater detail below, the second annular groove  231  and the second annular flange  232  are designed to snap-lock into mating engagement with the second fitment  252 . In alternate embodiments, the second coupling structure  230  can take on a wide variety of structures and utilize a wide variety of mechanisms of action to operably mate with the second fitment  252  (or the first fitment  152 ). For example, in certain alternate embodiments, the second coupling structure  250  could comprise threads, tangs, notches, ribs, cam surfaces, cam followers, pins and other structures/assemblies that are known in the art for coupling components together. 
         [0053]    Referring now to  FIGS. 2 and 8  concurrently, the structural details of the second closure  250  will be described in greater detail. In one embodiment, the second closure  250  can be constructed of a hard plastic. Suitable hard plastics include polymers and copolymers of ethylene, propylene, butadiene, vinyl compounds and polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate. Of course, other materials of construction can be utilized as desired. 
         [0054]    The second closure  250  generally comprises a second closure body  251  and a second fitment  252 . The second closure body  251  has a second outer surface  264 . The second closure body  251  has a fourth three-dimensional geometry which is imparted by a combination of the surface contours of the second outer surface  264  and the shape/silhouette of the second closure body  251 . In the exemplified embodiment, the fourth three-dimensional geometry is a rounded dome-like structure having a multi-angled planar top surface. Of course, the invention is not so limited and the fourth three-dimensional geometry can take on a wide variety of embodiments, none of which are limiting of the present invention unless specifically claimed. 
         [0055]    The second closure body  251  comprises a second closure wall  253 , a second annular skirt  254  and a second lid  255 . The second closure wall  253  comprises a second dispensing orifice  256 . When the second closure  250  is coupled to the second container body  210  to form the second container  200 , the second dispensing orifice  259  is in fluid communication with the second passageway  219  of the second nozzle  213  so that the second product within the second product cavity  216  can be dispensed therethrough during use. 
         [0056]    The second annular skirt  254  is a tubular structure that extends downward from the second closure wall  253 . The second annular skirt  254  terminates in a fourth annular edge  256 . The fourth annular edge  256  of the second annular skirt  254  has a configuration that is identical to the configuration of the second annular edge  222  of the second shoulder portion  212  of the second container body  210  (and also identical to the configuration of the first annular edge  122  of the first shoulder portion  112  of the second container body  110  and the configuration of the third annular edge  156  of the first annular skirt  154 ). Thus, in the exemplified embodiment, the fourth annular edge  212  has a three-dimensional configuration that is identical to the three-dimensional configuration of the second annular edge  222 . Similar to the second annular edge  222  (and the first and third annular edges  122 ,  156 ), the fourth annular edge  256  varies in the Y-direction in addition to forming a closed-perimeter geometry when viewed from the X-Z plane (using the Cartesian Coordinate System identified in  FIG. 6 ). More specifically, in the exemplified embodiment, the fourth annular edge  256  undulates in the Y-direction so as to define peaks  257 A-B and valleys  258 A-B. As with the second annular edge  222 , the fourth annular edge  256  may have a substantially two-dimensioned configuration in certain alternate embodiments, thereby lying substantially flat within a single plane. 
         [0057]    The second lid  255  is hingedly coupled to the second closure wall  253  so that the second lid  255  can be alternated between an open position (not shown) in which the second dispensing orifice  259  is open and a closed position (shown in  FIG. 2 ) in which the second dispensing orifice  259  is closed. While the hinge that couples the second lid  255  to the second closure wall  253  is not shown, the hinge may be a traditional pin-slot hinge or a living hinge. Moreover, while the second lid  255  is hingedly coupled to the second closure wall  253  in the exemplified embodiment, the second lid  255  can be hingedly coupled to other portions of the second closure  250  in alternate embodiments. In addition, in other embodiments, the second lid  255  may be coupled to the second closure  250  via snap-fit connection, frictional-fit connection, pivotal connection, slidable connection, and other suitable mechanical coupling means. 
         [0058]    In the exemplified embodiment, the second fitment  252  is in the form of an annular tubular structure  260  that circumscribes the second outer surface  221  of the second nozzle  213  when the second closure  250  is coupled to the second container body  210 . A second flange  261  protrudes radially inward from a second inner surface  262  of the annular tubular structure  260 . The second flange  261  snap-fits into the second groove  231  of the second coupling structure  230  of the second container body  210 . The second flange  261  can be a continuous (i.e., non-segmented) annular flange or can comprise a plurality of circumferentially spaced-apart flange segments. The annular tubular structure  260  can be a continuous annular structure or can be comprised of a plurality of annular segments that are circumferentially spaced-apart from one another. Further, in certain other embodiments, the annular tubular structure  260  can be located within the second nozzle  213  and comprise a radially outward extending flange. 
         [0059]    While the second fitment  252  is exemplified as a snap-fit annular structure  260 , the invention is not so limited. In alternate embodiments, the second fitment  252  can take the form of threads, tangs, notches, ribs, cam surfaces, cam followers, pins and other structures/assemblies that are known in the art for coupling components together and that would operably mate with the second coupling structure  230 . 
         [0060]    When the second closure  250  is coupled to the second container body  210  to form the second container  200 , the second annular edge  222  and the fourth annular edge  256  mate with one another and are in substantially continuous surface contact along their lengths. As a result, a second surface contact interface  263  is formed between the second annular edge  222  and the fourth annular edge  256 . Moreover, the second outer surface  264  of the second closure body  251  is substantially flush with the second outer surface  264  of the second product containing portion  211  at the interface  263 . 
         [0061]    Referring now to  FIGS. 5-6  and  7 - 8  concurrently, it can be seen that both the first container body  110  and the second container body  210  utilize an identical design for the first and second shoulder portions  112 ,  212 . Moreover, the first and second annular edges  122 ,  222  are also identical to one another (i.e. have an identical three-dimensional configurations). Additionally, the first nozzle  113  of the first container body  110  and the second nozzle  213  of the second container body  210  are also substantially identical to one another. Furthermore, the first and second coupling structures  130 ,  230  are also substantially identical to one another. 
         [0062]    Regarding the first and second closures  150 ,  250 , it can also be seen that the first and second fitments  152 ,  252  of the first and second closures  150 ,  250  are also identical to one another. Moreover, the third and fourth annular edges  156 ,  256  have configurations that are also identical to one another. In fact, the configuration of all of first, second, third and fourth annular edges  122 ,  222 ,  156 ,  256  are substantially identical to one another. 
         [0063]    By designing: (1) the configurations of the first, second, third and fourth annular edges  122 ,  222 ,  156 ,  256  identical to one another; (2) the first and second fitments  130 ,  230  identical to one another; and (3) the first and second coupling structures  130 ,  230  identical to one another, each of the first and second container bodies  110 ,  210  can be coupled to each of the different closures  150 ,  250  to create a total of four containers, all of which have a sleek design that appears to be uniquely designed. Moreover, because each of the first, second and third three-dimensional geometries (discussed above) are different from one another, each of the first, second, third and fourth containers  100 ,  200 ,  300  and  400  have a different aesthetic appearance. As discussed above, the first container  100  is achieved by coupling the first container body  110  to the first closure  150  while the second container  200  is achieved by coupling the first container body  210  to the first closure  250 . The third container  300  ( FIG. 3 ) is achieved by coupling the first container body  110  to the second closure  250  while the fourth container  400  ( FIG. 4 ) is achieved by coupling the second container body  210  to the first closure  150 . 
         [0064]    Referring now to  FIGS. 3 and 9  concurrently, a third container  300  according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. As mentioned above, the third container  300  is formed by coupling the first container body  110  and the second closure  250  together. This is accomplished by the operable mating of the first coupling structure  130  and the second fitment  230 . 
         [0065]    Moreover, when the second closure  250  is coupled to the first container body  110  to form the third container  300 , the first annular edge  122  and the fourth annular edge  256  mate with one another and are in substantially continuous surface contact along their lengths. As a result, a third surface contact interface  363  is formed between the first annular edge  122  and the fourth annular edge  256 . Moreover, the second outer surface  226  of the second closure body  251  is substantially flush with the first outer surface  126  of the first product containing portion  111  at the interface  363 . Further, the second dispensing orifice  259  is in fluid communication with the first passageway  119  of the first nozzle  113 . 
         [0066]    Referring now to  FIGS. 4 and 10  concurrently, a fourth container  400  according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. As mentioned above, the fourth container  400  is formed by coupling the second container body  210  and the first closure  150  together. This is accomplished by the operable mating of the second coupling structure  230  and the first fitment  130 . 
         [0067]    Moreover, when the first closure  150  is coupled to the second container body  210  to form the fourth container  400 , the second annular edge  222  and the third annular edge  156  mate with one another and are in substantially continuous surface contact along their lengths. As a result, a fourth surface contact interface  463  is formed between the second annular edge  222  and the third annular edge  156 . Moreover, the first outer surface  164  of the first closure body  151  is substantially flush with the second outer surface  226  of the second product containing portion  211  at the interface  463 . Further, the first dispensing orifice  159  is in fluid communication with the second passageway  219  of the first nozzle  213 . 
         [0068]    As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range. In addition, all references cited herein are hereby incorporated by referenced in their entireties. In the event of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited reference, the present disclosure controls. 
         [0069]    While the foregoing description and drawings represent the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it will be understood that various additions, modifications and substitutions may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined in the accompanying claims. In particular, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, sizes, and with other elements, materials, and components, without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention may be used with many modifications of structure, arrangement, proportions, sizes, materials, and components and otherwise, used in the practice of the invention, which are particularly adapted to specific environments and operative requirements without departing from the principles of the present invention. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being defined by the appended claims, and not limited to the foregoing description or embodiments.