U.S. patent application number 10/629335 was filed with the patent office on 2005-02-03 for hermetically sealed container.
Invention is credited to Banik, Joachim, Pfister, William A..
Application Number | 20050023183 10/629335 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34103601 |
Filed Date | 2005-02-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050023183 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Banik, Joachim ; et
al. |
February 3, 2005 |
Hermetically sealed container
Abstract
A container for containing articles is disclosed. The container
comprises a first section and a second section. The first section
is capable of engaging the second section to form a hermetic seal.
The first section has a first cavity that is surrounded by a first
peripheral wall and a peripheral edge. The first peripheral wall
has a first surface that is angled toward the peripheral edge. The
second section has a second peripheral wall that is capable of
sliding between the first peripheral wall and the edge to form a
hermetic seal.
Inventors: |
Banik, Joachim; (Oconomowoc,
WI) ; Pfister, William A.; (Sussex, WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Scott M. Day
Foley & Lardner
Suite 3800
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee
WI
53202-5306
US
|
Family ID: |
34103601 |
Appl. No.: |
10/629335 |
Filed: |
July 29, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/581 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 77/0453 20130101;
B65D 2543/00296 20130101; B65D 2543/00537 20130101; B65D 43/162
20130101; B65D 2543/00685 20130101; B65D 77/0486 20130101; B65D
2543/0099 20130101; B65D 2543/00629 20130101; B65D 2543/0074
20130101; B65D 2543/00101 20130101; B65D 2543/00092 20130101; B65D
2543/00796 20130101; B65D 2543/00527 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/581 |
International
Class: |
B65D 069/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A cosmetic container comprising: a first section including a
first interface; and a second section for holding a cosmetic
substance, the second section including a second interface; wherein
one of the first interface and the second interface comprises a
groove and the other of the first and second interface comprises a
peripheral rim; and wherein the groove is defined by a peripheral
wall and a peripheral edge, the peripheral wall comprising a first
surface angled towards the peripheral edge.
2. The cosmetic container of claim 1, wherein the distance between
a first point and a second point of the first surface of the
peripheral wall is no less than the distance between a
corresponding first point and a corresponding second point of an
inner surface of the peripheral rim.
3. The cosmetic container of claim 2, wherein the first interface
and the second interface are circular.
4. The cosmetic container of claim 1, further comprising an outer
body coupled about the first section and second section.
5. The cosmetic container of claim 1, wherein the first surface is
at an angle of about 5 to 25 degrees with respect to the vertical
axis.
6. The cosmetic container of claim 5, wherein the first surface is
at an angle of about 12 to 16 degrees with respect to the vertical
axis.
7. The cosmetic container of claim 6, wherein the peripheral wall
further comprises a second surface that is substantially parallel
to the vertical axis.
8. The cosmetic container of claim 1, wherein the peripheral wall
further comprises a second surface, and wherein the first and
second surfaces are at angles of about 10 to 60 degrees with
respect to the vertical axis.
9. The cosmetic container of claim 1, wherein the peripheral edge
comprises a chamfered edge.
10. The cosmetic container of claim 1, wherein the peripheral wall
is substantially flexible.
11. The cosmetic container of claim 10, wherein the peripheral wall
is made from plastic.
12. The cosmetic container of claim 1, wherein the first section
and the second section are integral and joined by a living
hinge.
13. The cosmetic container of claim 1, wherein the peripheral edge
comprises one or more bulge.
14. The cosmetic container of claim 13, wherein the one or more
bulge extends circumferentially around the peripheral edge.
15. The cosmetic container of claim 13, wherein the one or more
bulge may be positioned at selective locations around the
peripheral edge.
16. A container for containing articles, the container comprising:
a first section; and a second section, the first section capable of
engaging the second section to form a hermetic seal; wherein the
first section has a first cavity, the cavity surrounded by a first
peripheral wall and a peripheral edge, the first peripheral wall
having a first surface that is angled toward the peripheral edge,
and wherein the second section has a second peripheral wall, the
second peripheral wall capable of sliding between the first
peripheral wall and the peripheral edge to form the hermetic
seal.
17. The container of claim 16, wherein the first peripheral wall
includes a first end.
18. The container of claim 17, wherein the first end is angled with
respect to the vertical axis.
19. The container of claim 17, wherein the peripheral wall is made
of a substantially flexible plastic material.
20. The container of claim 16, wherein the peripheral wall further
comprises a second surface that is substantially parallel to the
vertical axis.
21. The container of claim 16, wherein the first surface is at an
angle of about 5 to 25 degrees with respect to the vertical
axis.
22. The container of claim 16, wherein the distance between a first
point and a second point of the first surface of the first
peripheral wall is no less than the distance between a
corresponding first point and a corresponding second point of an
inner surface of the second peripheral wall.
23. A method of making a cosmetic container comprising: providing a
first section including a first interface; providing a second
section for holding a cosmetic substance, the second section
including a second interface; and providing a groove on one of the
first interface and the second interface and providing a peripheral
rim on the other of the first interface and the second interface,
the groove being defined by a peripheral wall and peripheral edge,
the peripheral wall comprising a first surface angled towards the
peripheral edge of the peripheral rim.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein the distance between a first
point and a second point of the first surface of the peripheral
wall is no less than the distance between a corresponding first
point and a corresponding second point of an inner surface of the
peripheral rim.
25. The method of claim 24, further comprising making the
peripheral wall flexible.
26. The method of claim 25, wherein the first interface and the
second interface are circular.
27. A container for cosmetic material comprising: a means for
containing at least one cosmetic material within a container that
may be selectively configured between an open position and a closed
position; a means for providing at least one interface capable of
creating a hermetic seal when the container is in the closed
position, the interface having an angled surface.
28. The container of claim 27, wherein the at least one interface
comprises a first interface and a second interface.
29. The container of claim 28, wherein one of the first interface
and the second interface comprises a groove and the other of the
first and second interface comprises a peripheral rim.
30. The container of claim 29, wherein the groove is defined by a
peripheral wall and a peripheral edge, and wherein the angled
surface is located on the peripheral wall.
31. The method of claim 30, wherein the distance between a first
point and a second point of the angled surface of the peripheral
wall is no less than the distance between a corresponding first
point and a corresponding second point of an inner surface of the
peripheral rim.
32. A container comprising: a first section; and a second section,
the first section capable of engaging the second section to form a
hermetic seal; wherein the first section has a cavity for
containing a substance comprising a volatile compound or a product
comprising a volatile component contained therein, the cavity
surrounded by a first peripheral wall and a peripheral edge, the
first peripheral wall having a first surface that is angled toward
the peripheral edge, and wherein the second section has a second
peripheral wall, the second peripheral wall capable of sliding
between the first peripheral wall and the edge to form a hermetic
seal.
33. The container of claim 32, wherein all components associated
with the seal are integral parts of the first section and the
second section.
34. The container of claim 32, wherein the distance between a first
point and a second point of the first surface of the peripheral
wall is no less than the distance between a corresponding first
point and a corresponding second point of an inner surface of the
peripheral rim.
35. The container of claim 34, wherein the first surface is at an
angle of about 5 to 25 degrees with respect to the vertical
axis.
36. The container of claim 35, wherein the first surface is at an
angle of about 12 to 16 degrees with respect to the vertical
axis.
37. The container of claim 34, wherein the peripheral wall further
comprises a second surface that is substantially parallel to the
vertical axis.
38. The container of claim 32, wherein the peripheral wall is
substantially flexible.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a sealed container. More
particularly, the present disclosure relates to a hermetically
sealed container, such as a hermetic cosmetic compact
container.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Various sealed containers or cases exist for storing and
holding different types of contents. Many of these containers are
designed for holding contents which are volatile and evaporate or
dry quickly when left exposed. Examples of such volatile contents
include moistened wipes, cosmetics, water, and/or other solvent
based products. In the cosmetic industry, manufacturers are
attempting to make a hermetic cosmetic container because the
cosmetic contents often contain a volatile chemical component that
requires hermetic storage to prevent or inhibit drying, hardening,
and cracking of the components.
[0003] In general, compact containers hold cosmetics including
makeups such as powders, crmes, eye shadows, eyeliners, lip-colors,
or other beauty aids. A base section of many compacts often
includes a metal pan for containing cosmetics. Alternatively, the
cosmetics can be directly stored in a cavity in the base section.
Some compacts are arranged as a one-piece unit so that one hand
opens and holds the compact, while the other hand applies the
cosmetic to the skin surface of the face. For example, some compact
containers include a lid or a cover section hingeably coupled to a
base or a container section. Either the cover section or the base
section can be pivoted about the hinge to obtain the closed
configuration of the compact, thereby providing a convenient
storage device.
[0004] Cosmetic containers may also be in the form of a container
with a screw-on cap. With a screw-on cap design, the user must
contend with two separate pieces, which can make applying the
cosmetic a difficult task. For example, the user must unscrew the
cap and place it somewhere so that one hand can hold the container
that stores the cosmetic, while the other hand is free to apply the
cosmetic to the skin surface of the face. The user has to either
hold the cap when applying the cosmetic or lay the screw-on cap
somewhere during the process of applying the cosmetic. A separate
cap also increases the probability for the cap to be misplaced or
lost. Without the screw-on cap, the unused portion of the cosmetic
remaining in the container will dry, harden and crack, generally
resulting in a product of deteriorated quality. As a result, the
user incurs additional expense by having to purchase replacement
cosmetic.
[0005] Another problem with existing screw-on cosmetic containers
is that a user may not be aware that the screw-on cap is not
properly closed, e.g., screwed on the container. If the cap is not
properly placed on the container, more air flow will be permitted
allowing volatiles to escape. This likely results in a low-quality
cosmetic that is dried, hardened, and/or cracked.
[0006] Another problem with existing cosmetic containers is that
some containers require complicated mechanisms to create a hermetic
seal. For example, instead of a seal being created substantially
between two surfaces, some cosmetic containers utilize the
interaction of numerous surfaces and angles to create a hermetic
seal. Some containers further require some type of curve or bend
along portions of the sealing surfaces to create a "snap-fit" to
secure a container in a closed configuration. Accordingly, a
significant amount of force is often required to open and close
certain cosmetic containers.
[0007] Thus, there is a need for an improved container that is
inexpensive and simple-to-use while being capable of effecting a
hermetic seal. Further, there is a need for an improved
hermetically sealed compact container that can be manufactured as a
one-piece unit and can be simply opened and closed. Further, there
is a need for an improved hermetically sealed container that does
not require complicated closing mechanisms involving multiple
surfaces or "snap-fits" to lock the container in a closed
configuration.
[0008] It would be desirable to provide a container having any one
or more of these or other advantageous features.
SUMMARY
[0009] The present disclosure relates to a cosmetic container. The
cosmetic container comprises a first section including a first
interface and a second section for holding a cosmetic substance.
The second section includes a second interface. One of the first
interface and the second interface comprises a groove and the other
of the first and second interface comprises a peripheral rim. The
groove is defined by a peripheral wall and a peripheral edge, the
peripheral wall comprising a first surface angled towards the
peripheral edge. The cosmetic container may include an outer body
coupled about the first section and second section. The first
section and the second section may be integral and joined by a
living hinge. Other coupling devices may be used.
[0010] The present disclosure further relates to a container for
containing articles. The container comprises a first section and a
second section. The first section is capable of engaging the second
section to form a hermetic seal. The first section has a first
cavity that is surrounded by a first peripheral wall and a
peripheral edge. The first peripheral wall has a first surface that
is angled toward the peripheral edge. The second section has a
second peripheral wall capable of sliding between the first
peripheral wall and the peripheral edge to form the hermetic seal.
The container may include a fist end on the first peripheral wall
wherein the first end is angled with respect to the vertical axis.
The peripheral wall may be made from a substantially flexible
plastic material.
[0011] The present disclosure further relates to a method of making
a cosmetic container. The method comprises providing a first
section including a first interface and providing a second section
for holding a cosmetic substance. The second section includes a
second interface. The method also comprises providing a groove on
one of the first interface and the second interface and providing a
peripheral rim on the other of the first interface and the second
interface. The groove is defined by a peripheral wall and
peripheral edge. The peripheral wall comprises a first surface
angled towards the peripheral edge of the peripheral rim. The
peripheral wall may be flexible and the first interface and the
second interface may be circular.
[0012] The present disclosure further relates to a container for
cosmetic material comprising a means for containing at least one
cosmetic material within a container that may be selectively
configured between an open position and a closed position, and a
means for providing at least one interface capable of creating a
hermetic seal when the container is in the closed position, the
interface having an angled surface.
[0013] The present disclosure further relates to a container
comprising a first section and a second section. The first section
is capable of engaging the second section to form a hermetic seal.
The first section has a cavity for containing a substance
comprising a volatile compound or a product comprising a volatile
component contained therein. The cavity is surrounded by a first
peripheral wall and a peripheral edge, the first peripheral wall
having a first surface that is angled toward the peripheral edge.
The second section has a second peripheral wall capable of sliding
between the first peripheral wall and the edge to form a hermetic
seal. The first and second sections may be integral and joined by a
living hinge.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a closed cosmetic compact
container according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the cosmetic compact
container illustrated in FIG. 1 in an open configuration,
demonstrating an integral two-piece insert contained therein;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the closed cosmetic
compact container illustrated in FIG. 1, taken along line 3-3;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the integral two-piece
insert illustrated in FIG. 2;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the integral
two-piece insert illustrated in FIG. 4;
[0019] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the insert illustrated
in FIG. 4 about line 6-6;
[0020] FIG. 7A is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of a
peripheral rim illustrated in FIG. 4;
[0021] FIG. 7B is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of a
lip according to an alternative embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 8A is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of a
groove illustrated in FIG. 4;
[0023] FIG. 8B is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of a
groove according to an alternative embodiment;
[0024] FIG. 9A is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of the
peripheral rim and groove illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 8A in a
closed configuration;
[0025] FIG. 9B is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of the
lip and groove illustrated in FIGS. 7B and 8B in a closed
configuration. [FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a cosmetic
container according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0026] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the cosmetic container
illustrated in FIG. 10 in an open configuration;
[0027] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the cosmetic container
illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 in a closed configuration; and
[0028] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a container in a partially
open configuration according to an exemplary embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0029] With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, a cosmetic container or
compact 10 is shown. Compact 10 is a cosmetic container for holding
a cosmetic substance, such as a powder, crme, foundation,
lip-gloss, eye shadow, eyeliner, or other beauty aid. In
particular, compact 10 is preferably a cosmetic container for
containing a color-fast, e.g., a nonfading and rub-resistant,
cosmetic with a hermetic seal.
[0030] Referring to FIG. 1, a compact 10 in a closed configuration
is shown according to a preferred embodiment. Compact 10 includes
an exterior shell which is comprised of a top or cover section 12
coupled (FIG. 2) to a bottom or a base section 14. The cover
section 12 may be permanently or removably coupled to the base
section 14. An example of a permanent coupling is the integrated
hinge shown in FIG. 2. Compact 10 also includes an opening
interface 16. Interface 16 includes a first member 18 and a second
member 20. Opening interface 16 facilitates opening of compact 10
when first member 18 engages second member 20. Alternatively,
opening interface 16 can include a pivoting member similar to
conventional shoe polish canisters.
[0031] As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 1, when an external
downward force is applied, such as, by hand, to cover section 12 to
effect pivotal motion in a direction toward base section 14,
compact 10 achieves a closed configuration. When a separate cover
section 12 and base section 14 are employed, compact 10 achieves a
closed configuration as the two pieces are brought together. It may
be desirable for compact 10 to emit the traditional snapping sound
associated with the closing of a conventional compact. Opening
interface 16 can also be configured to perform a latching operation
for compact 10. Although compact 10 is shown in a quadrangular
shape, other geometries, such as oval, circular, hexagonal, and so
forth, can also be used.
[0032] With reference to FIG. 2, compact 10 is shown in an open
configuration. Compact 10 further includes a two-piece insert 22.
Insert 22 preferably includes a first section 24 coupled to a
second section 26. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, first
section 24 of insert 22 is pivotally coupled to second section 26
via a living hinge 28. According to various alternative
embodiments, first section 24 and second section 26 may be formed
separately, integrally, etc. and be either permanently or removably
coupled together according to any suitable method (e.g., fasteners,
any variety of hinge mechanisms, screws, adhesives, etc.). Insert
22 can be shaped in accordance with compact 10 and sized to fit
within the combination of sections 12 and 14. Insert 22 is
preferably made of resins (plastic or otherwise), including
injection moldeable thermoplastic resin with relatively high
flexibility, such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE),
polyvinylchloride (PVC), or thermo-plastic elastomers (TPE).
Alternatively, any other suitable material may be used.
[0033] First section 24 of insert 22 may optionally include a
cavity 30 as shown in FIG. 4. In one embodiment, a mirror can be
disposed within cavity 30 for viewing the face when applying the
cosmetic. Similarly, second section 26 has a cavity 32 defined by a
peripheral surface 34. Peripheral surface 34 includes a peripheral
rim 36. Peripheral rim 36 may be attached to peripheral surface 34
according to any suitable method (e.g., fasteners, screws,
adhesives, etc.). According to a preferred embodiment, peripheral
rim 36 is integral with (e.g., continuous) with peripheral surface
34. This may be accomplished by a molding process. In FIG. 4, the
peripheral rim 36 circumferentially extends above a surface 35 of
second section 26. According to an exemplary embodiment, peripheral
rim melds into a terminal, outwardly-protruding lip 38. According
to various other embodiments, lip 38 is optional. Cavity 32 is
preferably configured to hold the color-fast cosmetic.
Alternatively, instead of cavity 32, second section 26 can include
an aperture configured such that a pan prefilled with cosmetic can
be disposed therein. Other embodiments may have alternative shaped
cavities other than circular including polygonal shapes such as
rectangular or square.
[0034] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of compact 10 in a closed
configuration, taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 1. Cavity 30 within
section 24 is shown with a mirror 37 disposed therein. Cavity 32 is
shown in an empty state. Compact 10 also includes interface gaps 40
and 42. Interface gap 40 is disposed between an internal surface 11
of cover 12 and an exterior surface 23 of first section 24 of
insert 22. Interface gap 42 is disposed between an internal surface
13 of base section 14 and an external surface 25 of second section
26 of insert 22. Interface gaps 40 and 42 are configured to be
large enough to allow expansion of first section 24 and second
section 26, respectively, of insert 22.
[0035] FIGS. 4 and 5 show insert 22 in a fully extended, opened
configuration. In particular, FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of
insert 22, whereas FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view. In this
embodiment, the first section includes a groove 48, although in
other embodiments, the second section may include the groove 48.
The groove 48 is defined between a peripheral edge 33 of cavity 30
and peripheral wall 44. Groove 48 is configured to receive
peripheral rim 36 when insert 22 is in a closed configuration
(e.g., when first section 24 engages second section 26), desirably
effecting a hermetic seal. Insert 22 may not require a clasp or
fastener to sustain a closed configuration because the hermetic
seal may be designed to maintain insert 22 in the closed
configuration
[0036] FIG. 5 shows the bottom perspective view of insert 22. The
perimeter of first section 24 and second section 26 is defined by a
continuous peripheral rim 50 that overhangs in the direction toward
external surfaces 23 and 25, respectively. Rim 50 can be utilized
to secure or snap insert 22 within sections 12 and 14. Rim 50 is
preferably configured to span a height of about 0.05 to about 0.5
inches. Other embodiments may not include this feature.
[0037] In one embodiment, when in the fully extended configuration,
insert 22 spans a length of approximately 2-12 inches, having a
respective approximate 1-6 inch length for both first section 24
and second section 26. Alternatively, insert 22 can have other
dimensions complementary to fit any sized compact 10.
[0038] With reference to FIG. 6, a cross-sectional view of insert
22 in the fully extended configuration is shown, taken about line
6-6 of FIG. 4. Living hinge 28 is shown fully extended and cavity
30 and cavity 32 both appear in an empty state. Lip 38 is shown
protruding outwardly from peripheral rim 36. With reference to
first section 24, groove 48 appears between peripheral wall 44 and
peripheral edge 33.
[0039] Both FIGS. 7A and 8A are enlarged, partial cross-sectional
views of different aspects of insert 22. More specifically, FIG. 7A
shows an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of peripheral rim
36. FIG. 8A is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view showing
groove 48 disposed between peripheral wall 44 and peripheral edge
33. FIG. 8A further shows that peripheral wall 44 terminates in a
free end 45.
[0040] In one embodiment, the height of peripheral rim 36 (FIG. 7A)
is sufficient to fit within the groove 48. For example, in a
commercial embodiment, peripheral rim 36 may have a height of about
0.1 to 0.5 inches, preferably about 0.12 inches, with a width of
about 0.02 to 0.1 inches, preferably about 0.035 inches. Groove 48
is defined by multiple surfaces and components including peripheral
wall 44, surface 64, and peripheral edge 33. The total area of
groove 48 is determined by the measurements and dimensions of these
components.
[0041] Peripheral wall 44 (FIG. 8A) may have a height of about 0.03
to 0.2 inches and a thickness of about 0.01 to 0.03 inches.
According to a preferred embodiment, peripheral wall 44 has a
height of approximately 0.07 inches and a thickness of
approximately 0.016 inches. A free end 45 of wall 44 may be angled
about 10 to 60 degrees with respect to the vertical axis. According
to a preferred embodiment, free end 45 is angled at a 30 degree
angle with respect to a vertical axis. The surface 49 of wall 44
bordering groove 48 may be angled toward groove 48 about 5 to 25
degrees, and more desirably 10 to 20 degrees. According to a
preferred embodiment, surface 49 is angled toward groove 48 at an
angle that is approximately 14 degrees with respect to the vertical
axis. A surface 51 may be at any angle or parallel to the vertical
axis.
[0042] Alternatively, other dimensions can be used. For example,
this disclosure contemplates various shapes for surface 64 (e.g.,
curved, rectangular, triangular, etc.). Accordingly, the given
dimensions and descriptions are exemplary only and do not limit the
scope of the claims.
[0043] The closing and opening of insert 22 is discussed as
follows. In one embodiment, insert 22 is closed by applying a
downward force, such as, by hand, to first section 24 to effect a
pivotal motion of first section 24 toward second section 26. More
specifically, as a result of the applied downward force on first
section 24, hinge 28 folds to close first section 24 onto second
section 26.
[0044] In the process of closing insert 22, groove 48 receives
peripheral rim 36 between peripheral wall 44 and peripheral edge 33
(FIGS. 4, 6, 8A, and 9A), thereby effecting a hermetic seal at the
interface (FIG. 9A). The seal can be formed between peripheral rim
36 and peripheral wall 44 and/or rim 36 and edge 33. According to a
preferred embodiment, the distance between a first point and a
second point of surface 49 of peripheral wall 44 is no less than
the distance between a corresponding first point and a
corresponding second point of peripheral surface 34 of peripheral
rim 36. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the distance between
points 47 on surface 49 may be greater than or equal to the
distance between two corresponding points 43 on peripheral surface
34. Moreover, peripheral wall 44 biases peripheral rim 36 against
peripheral edge 33. Peripheral rim 36 thereby fits into groove 48,
thus securing the hermetic seal and optionally maintaining insert
22 in the closed configuration.
[0045] The angle of surface 49 toward groove 48 creates an improved
hermetic seal. As rim 36 is moved into groove 48, rim 36 first
makes contact with free end 45 and chamfer edge 52. The angled
shape of free end 45 and the curved shape of chamfer edge 52 direct
rim 36 into position for placement within groove 48. As rim 36
continues to push upward against free end 45, wall 44 begins to
move outward away from groove 48. The angle of wall 44 helps create
biasing force between rim 36 and wall 44 that maintains a hermetic
seal.
[0046] Once rim 36 is positioned within groove 48, the angle of
wall 44 provides enough tension to keep rim 36 in groove 48.
Compact 10 may not require a latch to maintain insert 22 in the
closed configuration. For example, the angle of peripheral wall 44
holds peripheral rim 36 in place to maintain the seal. As insert 22
obtains the closed configuration, the evacuated air may make a
distinctive audible sound, indicating that the hermetic seal has
been established.
[0047] To open insert 22, a pushing or pulling force is applied,
such as, by hand, to first section 24 in a direction away from
second section 26. In the process of separating or disengaging
first section 24 from second section 26 from the closed
configuration of insert 22, peripheral rim 36 is removed from
within groove 48, thereby disrupting, e.g., breaking, the hermetic
seal formed at the interface between peripheral surface 34 and
peripheral wall 44. As first section 24 is disengaged from second
section 26, another audible sound may be emitted, indicating the
hermetic seal has been broken. As hinge 28 unfolds, first section
24 is further moved in a direction away from second section 26.
[0048] Both FIGS. 7B and 8B are enlarged, partial cross-sectional
views of another embodiment of insert 22. More specifically, FIG.
7B shows an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of lip 38
extending from peripheral rim 36. FIG. 8B is an enlarged, partial
cross-sectional view showing groove 48 disposed between peripheral
wall 44 and peripheral edge 33. FIG. 8B further shows that
peripheral wall 44 terminates in a free end 45.
[0049] As shown in FIG. 8B, peripheral edge 33 includes a chamfer
edge 52, a bulge 54 protruding in a direction toward groove 48, and
an indentation 56 pointed in a direction away from wall 44.
According to other embodiments, peripheral edge 33 may not include
chamfer edge 52 and/or indentation 56. According to an exemplary
embodiment, bulge 54 may extend circumferentially around peripheral
edge 33. According to various other embodiments, one or more bulges
54 may be located at selective locations around peripheral edge
33.
[0050] In one embodiment, lip 38 may have a width of about 0.02 to
0.1 inches, preferably about 0.045 inches and a height of about
0.02 to 0.1 inches, preferably about 0.05 inches. Lip 38 may also
be designed to be spherical with a radius of about 0.005 to 0.1
inches, preferably about 0.01 inches at an end 72. However, the lip
38 is not intended to be limited to such design. For example, a lip
38 may have a variety of other suitable dimensions.
[0051] According to an exemplary embodiment, bulge 54 of peripheral
edge 33 may be curved with a radius of about 0.005 to 0.03 inches.
According to a preferred embodiment, bulge 54 has a radius of
approximately 0.01 inches. A wall 62 associated with indent 56 may
be provided at an angle in the range of about 10 to 60 degrees from
the vertical axis. According to a preferred embodiment, wall 62 is
provided at an angle of about 30 degrees from the vertical axis.
According to an exemplary embodiment, groove 48 may have a width of
about 0.025 to 0.125 inches, preferably about 0.05 inches.
According to an exemplary embodiment, bulge 54 may be from about
0.03 to 0.1 inches from a surface 64 and terminates from about 0.06
to 0.25 inches from surface 64. According to a preferred
embodiment, bulge 54 is about 0.05 inches from surface 64 of groove
48 and terminates at a distance of about 0.11 inches from surface
64.
[0052] Alternatively, other dimensions can be used. For example,
this disclosure contemplates various shapes for surface 64 (e.g.,
curved, rectangular, triangular, etc.). Accordingly, the given
dimensions and descriptions are exemplary only and do not limit the
scope of the claims.
[0053] In the process of closing insert 22, groove 48 receives
peripheral rim 36 between peripheral wall 44 and peripheral edge 33
(FIGS. 4, 6, 8B, and 9B), thereby effecting a hermetic seal at the
interface (FIG. 9B). The seal can be formed between peripheral
surface 34 and peripheral wall 44 or rim 36 and edge 33. Moreover,
bulge 54 of peripheral edge 33 pushes peripheral rim 36 to bias
peripheral surface 34 towards peripheral wall 44. Even further, lip
38 of peripheral rim 36 fits into indentation 56 of peripheral edge
33, thus securing the hermetic seal and maintaining insert 22 in
the closed configuration.
[0054] Once lip 38 is positioned within groove 48, the angle of
wall 44 provides enough tension to keep lip 38 in groove 48.
Compact 10 may not require a latch to maintain insert 22 in the
closed configuration. As insert 22 obtains the closed
configuration, the evacuated air makes a distinctive audible sound,
indicating that the hermetic seal has been established.
[0055] According to an exemplary embodiment, insert 22 (shown in
FIG. 2) is manufactured using an injection-molding process. A
molten thermoplastic material is injected under high pressure into
a mold cavity. After a cooling cycle, the plastic material
solidifies, the mold opens, and the insert is ejected. Molds can be
single-cavity molds, producing one part per mold cycle, or
multi-cavity molds, producing multiple parts per mold cycle. The
molten plastic can be injected through only one injection point in
either first section 24 or second section 26 of insert 22, in which
case the material flows through a living hinge 28 into the other of
section 24 or section 26. According to other embodiments, each of
sections 24 and 26 may contain an injection point.
[0056] Polypropylene is the preferred material for this
application. Polypropylene has many advantages including the
following: (a) it flows easily during injection and fills thin
walls; (b) it forms living hinges capable of withstanding millions
of cycles; (c) it is flexible enough to allow deformation during
closing of the container; (d) it has a very low
water-vapor-transmission-rate (MVTR), which means that weight loss
of water and hydrophilic substances through the walls of the
container is minimal; (e) it has very good chemical resistance to a
wide range of chemicals used in cosmetic formulas; and (f) it is
inexpensive. However, according to other embodiments, other types
of materials may be used.
[0057] External components of the compact (such as the cover and
base) are typically also injection molded. Typical thermoplastic
materials used for the external components include styrenics (e.g.,
acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, styrene acrylonitrile,
polystyrene, medium impact polystyrene, high impact polystyrene),
acrylic (polymethylmethacrylate) or other suitable resins. The main
purpose of the external components is to provide stiffness to the
assembled compact and provide more esthetically pleasing surfaces
than can be achieved with polypropylene.
[0058] Referring to FIG. 10, a cross-sectional view of cosmetic
container 110 is shown. Container 110 preferably includes a first
section 124 coupled to a second section 126. As shown in the
illustrated embodiment, first section 124 of container 110 is
pivotally coupled to second section 126 via a living hinge 128.
According to various alternative embodiments, first section 124 and
second section 126 may be formed separately, integrally, etc. and
be either permanently or removably coupled together according to
any suitable method (e.g., fasteners, moldings, screws, adhesives,
etc.). Container 110 can be shaped and sized to fit within
containers of various sizes. Container 110 is preferably made of
resins (plastic or otherwise), including injection moldeable
thermoplastic resin with relatively high flexibility, such as
polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyvinylchloride (PVC), or
thermo-plastic elastomers (TPE). Alternatively, any other suitable
material may be used.
[0059] First section 124 of container 110 may optionally include a
cavity 130 as shown in FIG. 10. In one preferred embodiment, a
mirror can be disposed within cavity 130 for viewing the face when
applying the cosmetic. Similarly, second section 126 has a cavity
132 defined by a peripheral surface 134. Peripheral surface 134
includes a peripheral rim 136. Peripheral rim 136 may be attached
to peripheral surface 134 according to any suitable method (e.g.,
fasteners, screws, adhesives, etc.). According to a preferred
embodiment, peripheral rim 136 is integral with (e.g., continuous)
with peripheral surface 134. This may be accomplished by a molding
process. Cavity 132 is preferably configured to hold the cosmetic.
Alternatively, instead of cavity 132, second section 126 can
include an aperture configured such that a pan prefilled with
cosmetic can be disposed therein. Other embodiments may have
alternative shaped cavities other than circular including polygonal
shapes such as rectangular or square.
[0060] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of container 110. In this
embodiment, the first section 124 includes a groove 148, although
in other embodiments, the second section 126 may include the groove
148. The groove 148 is defined between a peripheral edge 133 of
cavity 130 and peripheral wall 144. Groove 148 is configured to
receive peripheral rim 136 when container 110 is in a closed
configuration (e.g., when first section 124 engages second section
126), desirably effecting a hermetic seal. Container 110 may not
require a clasp or fastener to sustain a closed configuration (as
shown in FIG. 12) because the hermetic seal can maintain container
110 in the closed configuration. In alternative embodiments, it may
be desirable to include a bulge, lip or indentation similar to what
is shown in FIGS. 7B, 8B, and 9B. Living hinge 128 is shown fully
extended and cavity 130 and cavity 132 both appear in an empty
state. With reference to first section 124, groove 148 appears
between peripheral wall 144 and peripheral edge 133.
[0061] In one embodiment, when in the fully extended configuration,
container 110 spans a length of approximately 2-12 inches, having a
respective approximate 1-6 inch length for both first section 124
and second section 126. Alternatively, container 110 can have other
dimensions complementary to fit any sized compact.
[0062] Referring to FIG. 13, a container 210 is shown according to
an exemplary embodiment. Container 210 is similar to compacts
described above except that container 210 may be used to hold or
contain any number of other articles requiring hermetic seals
(e.g., wetwipes, chemicals, food, photographs, etc.).
[0063] FIG. 13 shows container 210 in a partially open
configuration according to an exemplary embodiment. Container 210
includes an exterior shell which is comprised of a top or cover
section 212 hingeably coupled to a bottom member or a base section
214. In this embodiment, the top section 212 includes a groove 248,
although in other embodiments, the base section 214 may include the
groove 248. The groove 248 is defined between a peripheral edge 233
of cavity 230 and peripheral wall 244. Groove 248 is configured to
receive peripheral rim 236 when container 210 is in a closed
configuration (e.g., when top section 212 engages base section
214), desirably effecting a hermetic seal. Container 210 may not
require a clasp or fastener to sustain a closed configuration
because the hermetic seal can maintain container 210 in the closed
configuration. In alternative embodiments, it may be desirable to
include a bulge, lip or indentation similar to what is shown in
FIGS. 7B, 8B, and 9B. Living hinge 228 is shown partially extended
and cavity 230 and cavity 232 both appear in an empty state. With
reference to top section 212, groove 248 appears between peripheral
wall 244 and peripheral edge 233. Other types of containers are
also contemplated.
[0064] The advantages of the containers described herein are shown
in the following example. A 24-hour water weight loss test was
conducted on several known cosmetic containers. To begin the test,
the empty test engines were weighed. 10 grams of water was then
placed in the inserts (e.g., engines). The inserts were then closed
and weighed again. After that, the filled inserts were placed in a
humidity-controlled oven at 50 degrees Celsius and 60 percent
relative humidity. After 24 hours, the inserts were weighed again.
The 24-hour weight loss in percent is calculated as follows:
(initial filled weight-filled weight after 24 hours)/(initial
filled weight-empty weight).times.100%. The results of the test are
shown in the following table:
1 Product 24-Hour Weight Loss (%) Manufacturer A 0.55 Manufacturer
B 0.14 Manufacturer C 0.16 Disclosed Cosmetic Container
0.05-0.08
[0065] Furthermore, the disclosed cosmetic container showed a
decrease in the 24-hour weight loss to about 0.02 to 0.04 percent
when left in the oven over the course of about 1-2 weeks.
[0066] It is important to note that the above-described embodiments
are illustrative only. Although the invention has been described in
conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, those skilled in the
art will appreciate that numerous modifications are possible
without materially departing from the novel teachings and
advantages of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, all
other such modifications are intended to be included within the
scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.
The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied
or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. In the
claims, any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the
structures described herein as performing the recited function and
not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures.
Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be
made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the
preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from
the spirit of the present invention.
* * * * *