U.S. patent application number 11/054046 was filed with the patent office on 2006-08-10 for paper containers and container assemblies with cohesive.
Invention is credited to Scott A. Hanson, H. Bernard Kirkland, Luba Lipkin.
Application Number | 20060175327 11/054046 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36498683 |
Filed Date | 2006-08-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060175327 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kirkland; H. Bernard ; et
al. |
August 10, 2006 |
Paper containers and container assemblies with cohesive
Abstract
A paper container assembly comprises first and second paper
containers. The first paper container includes a first continuous
body portion and a first rim having a first surface. The first rim
encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the first body
portion. The first surface of the first rim includes a first
cohesive. The second paper container includes a second continuous
body portion and a second rim having a second surface. The second
rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the second
body portion. The second surface of the second rim includes a
second cohesive. The first container and the second container are
adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the
first and second rims together such that the first cohesive and the
second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
Inventors: |
Kirkland; H. Bernard;
(Lindenhurst, IL) ; Lipkin; Luba; (Buffalo Grove,
IL) ; Hanson; Scott A.; (Grayslake, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JENKENS & GILCHRIST, P.C.
225 WEST WASHINGTON
SUITE 2600
CHICAGO
IL
60606
US
|
Family ID: |
36498683 |
Appl. No.: |
11/054046 |
Filed: |
February 9, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/4.21 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 2543/00351
20130101; B65D 43/161 20130101; B65D 77/2076 20130101; B65D
2543/00092 20130101; B65D 1/34 20130101; B65D 2543/00101 20130101;
B65D 2543/00268 20130101; B65D 43/0202 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/004.21 |
International
Class: |
B65D 6/28 20060101
B65D006/28 |
Claims
1. A paper container assembly comprising: a first paper container
including a first continuous body portion and a first rim having a
first surface, the first rim encompassing and projecting laterally
outwardly from the first body portion, the first surface of the
first rim including a first cohesive; and a second paper container
including a second continuous body portion and a second rim having
a second surface, the second rim encompassing and projecting
laterally outwardly from the second body portion, the second
surface of the second rim including a second cohesive, wherein the
first container and the second container are adapted to be
releasably attachable to each other by pressing the first and
second rims together such that the first cohesive and the second
cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
2. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein at least one of the
first and second containers comprises paperboard.
3. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and second
cohesives are the same.
4. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and second
cohesives are water-based cohesives.
5. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first rim forms at
least one recess therein, the at least one recess including the
first cohesive and wherein the second rim forms at least one recess
therein, the at least one recess including the second cohesive.
6. The container assembly of claim 5 wherein the first rim forms a
plurality of recesses and wherein the second rim forms a plurality
of recesses.
7. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and second
containers are bowls.
8. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and second
containers are plates.
9. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first container is
a bowl and the second container is a plate.
10. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first container
is shaped substantially the same as the second container.
11. The container assembly of claim 10 wherein the first container
is identical to the second container.
12. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first rim forms a
first plurality of ripples projecting generally upwardly therefrom
with a respective first space being formed between adjacent ones of
the first plurality of ripples, the respective first space
containing the first cohesive, wherein the second rim forms a
plurality of ripples projecting generally upwardly therefrom with a
respective second space being formed between adjacent ones of the
second plurality of ripples, the respective second space containing
the second cohesive, and wherein the first container and the second
container are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by
pressing the first rim and the second rim together such that the
first cohesive and the second cohesive contact and releasably
attach to each other.
13. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first rim has a
first plurality of upwardly-projecting features with first spaces
being formed between adjacent upwardly-projecting features, the
first spaces containing the first cohesive, wherein the second rim
has a second plurality of upwardly-projecting features with second
spaces being formed between adjacent upwardly-projecting features,
the second spaces containing the second cohesive, the second rim
and the first rim being shaped substantially the same, and wherein
the first container and the second container are adapted to be
releasably attachable to each other by pressing the first plurality
of upwardly-projecting features and the second plurality of
upwardly-projecting features together such that the first cohesive
and the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each
other.
14. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the first rim has a
first plurality of ribs projecting generally upwardly therefrom
such that first spaces are formed between adjacent ribs, the first
spaces containing the first cohesive, wherein the second rim has a
second plurality of ribs projecting generally upwardly therefrom
such that second spaces are formed between adjacent ribs, the
second spaces containing the second cohesive, and wherein the first
container and the second container are adapted to be releasably
attachable to each other by pressing the first plurality of
upwardly-projecting ribs and the second plurality of
upwardly-projecting ribs together such that the first cohesive and
the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each
other.
15. The container assembly of claim 14 wherein each of the first
plurality of upwardly-projecting ribs and the second plurality of
upwardly-projecting ribs includes at least about 3 ribs.
16. The container assembly of claim 14 wherein each of the first
plurality of upwardly-projecting ribs and the second plurality of
upwardly-projecting ribs includes at least about 40 ribs.
17. A method of forming a paper container assembly, the method of
comprising the acts of: providing a first paper container that
includes a first continuous body portion and a first rim having a
first surface, the first rim encompassing and projecting laterally
outwardly from the first body portion, the first surface of the
first rim including a first cohesive; providing a second paper
container that includes a second continuous body portion and a
second rim having a second surface, the second rim encompassing and
projecting laterally outwardly from the second body portion, the
second surface of the second rim including a second cohesive;
flipping one of the first container and the second container such
that the first container and second container are generally aligned
and the first rim and the second rim are adjacent to each other;
and pressing the first and second rims together such that the first
cohesive and the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to
each other.
18. The method of claim 17 further including placing a food article
on at least one of the first container and the second container
before pressing the first and second rims together.
19. The method of claim 17 wherein at least one of the first and
second containers comprises paperboard.
20. The method of claim 17 wherein the first and second cohesives
are the same.
21. The method of claim 17 wherein the first and second cohesives
are water-based cohesives.
22. The method of claim 17 wherein the first rim forms at least one
recess therein, the at least one recess including the first
cohesive and wherein the second rim forms at least one recess
therein, the at least one recess including the second cohesive.
23. The method of claim 17 wherein the first rim has a first
plurality of upwardly-projecting features with first spaces being
formed between adjacent upwardly-projecting features, the first
spaces containing the first cohesive, wherein the second rim has a
second plurality of upwardly-projecting features with second spaces
being formed between adjacent upwardly-projecting features, the
second spaces containing the second cohesive, the second rim and
the first rim being shaped substantially the same, and wherein the
first container and the second container are adapted to be
releasably attachable to each other by pressing the first plurality
of upwardly-projecting features and the second plurality of
upwardly-projecting features together such that the first cohesive
and the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each
other.
24. A paper container assembly comprising: a first paper container
including a first continuous body portion, a first handle and a
second handle, the first and second handles encompassing and
projecting laterally outwardly from the first body portion, the
first handle including a first cohesive, the second handle
including a second cohesive; and a second paper container including
a second continuous body portion, a third handle and a fourth
handle, the third and fourth handles encompassing and projecting
laterally outwardly from the second body portion, the third handle
including a third cohesive, the fourth handle including a fourth
cohesive, wherein the first container and the second container are
adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the
first handle and the third handle together such that the first
cohesive and the third cohesive contact and releasably attach to
each other and pressing the second handle and the fourth handle
together such that the second cohesive and the fourth cohesive
contact and releasably attach to each other.
25. The container assembly of claim 24 wherein at least one of the
first and second containers comprises a paperboard.
26. The container assembly of claim 24 wherein the first, second,
third and fourth cohesives are the same.
27. The container assembly of claim 24 wherein the first, second,
third and fourth cohesives are water-based cohesives.
28. The container assembly of claim 24 wherein the first container
has exactly a first handle and a second handle, the first and
second handles being located on opposite sides from each other and
wherein the second container has exactly a third handle and a
fourth handle, the third and fourth handles being located on
opposite sides from each other.
29. The container assembly of claim 24 wherein the first handle
forms a first recess therein and the second handle forms a second
recess therein, the first and second recesses including respective
first and second cohesives, and wherein the third handle forms a
third recess therein and the fourth handle forms a fourth recess
therein, the third and fourth recesses including respective third
and fourth cohesives.
30. The container assembly of claim 24 wherein the first handle
forms a plurality of first recesses therein and the second handle
forms a plurality of second recesses therein, the first and second
plurality of recesses including respective first and second
cohesives, and wherein the third handle forms a plurality of third
recesses therein and the fourth handle forms a plurality of fourth
recesses therein, the third and plurality of fourth recesses
including respective third and fourth cohesives.
31. The container assembly of claim 24 wherein the first and second
containers are bowls.
32. The container assembly of claim 24 wherein the first and second
containers are plates.
33. The container assembly of claim 24 wherein the first container
is a bowl and the second container is a plate.
34. The container assembly of claim 24 wherein the first container
is shaped substantially the same as the second container.
35. The container assembly of claim 34 wherein the first container
is identical to the second container.
36. A method of forming a paper container assembly, the method
comprising the acts of: providing a first paper container including
a first continuous body portion, a first handle, and a second
handle, the first and second handles encompassing and projecting
laterally outwardly from the first body portion, the first handle
including a first cohesive, the second handle including a second
cohesive; providing a second paper container including a second
continuous body portion, a third handle and a fourth handle, the
third and fourth handles encompassing and projecting laterally
outwardly from the second body portion, the third handle including
a third cohesive, the fourth handle including a fourth cohesive;
flipping one of the first container and the second container such
that the first and second handles of the first container are
generally aligned with respective third and fourth handles of the
second container; pressing the first and third handles together
such that the first cohesive and the third cohesive contact and
releasably attach to each other; and pressing the second and fourth
handles together such that the second cohesive and the fourth
cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
37. The method of claim 36 further including placing a food article
on at least one of the first container and the second container
before pressing the first and third handles together and before
pressing the second and fourth handles together.
38. The method of claim 36 wherein at least one of the first and
second containers comprises a paperboard.
39. The method of claim 36 wherein the first, second, third and
fourth cohesives are the same.
40. The method of claim 36 wherein the first, second, third and
fourth cohesives are water-based cohesives.
41. The method of claim 36 wherein the first container has exactly
a first handle and a second handle, the first and second handles
being located on opposite sides from each other and wherein the
second container has exactly a third handle and a fourth handle,
the third and fourth handles being located on opposite sides from
each other.
42. The method of claim 36 wherein the first handle forms a first
recess therein and the second handle forms a second recess therein,
the first and second recesses including respective first and second
cohesives, and wherein the third handle forms a third recess
therein and the fourth handle forms a fourth recess therein, the
third and fourth recesses including respective third and fourth
cohesives.
43. A hinged paper container comprising: a paper base including a
first continuous body portion and a first rim having a first
surface, the first rim encompassing and projecting laterally
outwardly from the first body portion, the first surface of the
first rim including a first cohesive; and a paper lid including a
second continuous body portion and a second rim having a second
surface, the second rim encompassing and projecting laterally
outwardly from the second body portion, the second surface of the
second rim including a second cohesive, the lid being hingedly
attached to the base, wherein the first rim and the second rim are
adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the
first and second rims together such that the first cohesive and the
second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
44. The container of claim 43 wherein at least one of the base and
the lid comprises paperboard.
45. The container of claim 43 wherein the first and second
cohesives are the same.
46. The container of claim 43 wherein the first and second
cohesives are water-based cohesives.
47. The container of claim 43 wherein the first rim forms at least
one recess therein, the at least one recess including a first
cohesive and wherein the second rim forms at least one recess
therein, the at least one recess including a second cohesive.
48. The container of claim 47 wherein the first rim forms a
plurality of recesses and wherein the second rim forms a plurality
of recesses.
49. The container of claim 43 wherein the first rim forms a first
plurality of ripples projecting generally upwardly therefrom with a
respective first space being formed between adjacent ones of the
first plurality of ripples, the respective first space containing
the first cohesive, wherein the second rim forms a plurality of
ripples projecting generally upwardly therefrom with a respective
second space being formed between adjacent ones of the second
plurality of ripples, the respective second space containing the
second cohesive, and wherein the base and the lid are adapted to be
releasably attachable to each other by pressing the first rim and
the second rim together such that the first cohesive and the second
cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
50. A method of using a hinged paper container, the method
comprising the acts of: providing a paper base including a first
continuous body portion and a first rim having a first surface, the
first rim encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the
first body portion, the first surface of the first rim including a
first cohesive; providing a paper lid including a second continuous
body portion and a second rim having a second surface, the second
rim encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the second
body portion, the second surface of the second rim including a
second cohesive, the lid being hingedly attached to the base; and
pressing the first and second rims together such that the first
cohesive and the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to
each other.
51. The method of claim 50 further including placing a food article
on at least one of the base and the lid before pressing the first
and second rims together.
52. The method of claim 50 wherein at least one of the base and the
lid comprises paperboard.
53. The method of claim 50 wherein the first and second cohesives
are the same.
54. The method of claim 50 wherein the first and second cohesives
are water-based cohesives.
55. The method of claim 50 wherein the first rim forms at least one
recess therein, the at least one recess including a first cohesive
and wherein the second rim forms at least one recess therein, the
at least one recess including a second cohesive.
56. A paper container comprising: a paper base including a first
continuous body portion and a first rim, the first rim encompassing
and projecting laterally outwardly from the first body portion; and
a paper lid including a second continuous body portion and a second
rim, the second rim encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly
from the second body portion, wherein either the base or the lid
forms a tab and the other of the base and the lid forms a slot, the
tab having a surface that includes a second cohesive, the other of
the base and the lid having a surface including a second cohesive,
the base and lid being releasably attachable to each other by
extending the tab into the slot such that the first cohesive and
the second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each
other.
57. The container of claim 56 wherein the lid forms a tab and the
base forms a slot.
58. The container of claim 57 wherein the first rim of the base of
forms a slot.
59. The container of claim 56 wherein the tab is adapted to bend
such that the first cohesive and the second cohesive contact and
releasably attach to each other.
60. The container of claim 56 wherein the tab is adapted to bend in
a clockwise direction such the first cohesive and the second
cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
61. The container of claim 56 wherein the tab is adapted to bend in
a counterclockwise direction such the first cohesive and the second
cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
62. The container of claim 56 wherein at least one of the base and
the lid comprises paperboard.
63. The container of claim 56 wherein the first and second
cohesives are the same.
64. The container of claim 56 wherein the first and second
cohesives are water-based cohesives.
65. A paper container assembly comprising: a first paper container
including a first continuous body portion and a first flap
integrally connected to and extending therefrom, the first
continuous body portion having a first surface located opposite of
the first flap, the first surface having a first cohesive, the
first flap having a first inner surface including a second
cohesive; a second paper container including a second continuous
body portion and a second flap integrally connected to and
extending therefrom, the second body portion having a second
surface located opposite of the second flap, the second surface
having a third cohesive, the second flap having a second inner
surface including a fourth cohesive; wherein the first paper
container and the second paper container are adapted to be
releasably attachable to each other by contacting the first and
fourth cohesives and contacting the second and third cohesives.
66. The container assembly of claim 65 wherein at least one of the
first and second containers comprises paperboard.
67. The container assembly of claim 65 wherein the first, second,
third and fourth cohesives are the same.
68. The container assembly of claim 65 wherein the first, second,
third and fourth cohesives are water-based cohesives.
69. The container assembly of claim 65 wherein the first container
is shaped substantially the same as the second container.
70. The container assembly of claim 69 wherein the first container
is identical to the second container.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to paper containers.
More particularly, the present invention relates to releasably
attaching container assemblies and containers therein with
cohesives.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The use of inexpensive paper packaging containers has become
popular, especially for preparing and serving various food
products. Paper containers have been used for heating the food
product(s) disposed therein.
[0003] It would be desirable to have a paper container that would
be easy for the customer to close and open. It would also be
desirable to provide a container that is releasably attachable and
prevents or inhibits material, such as liquid, from leaving the
container. It would be desirable for a container to function
without necessarily having a lid, but if a lid is desired to form a
container assembly, a customer would be able to form such an
assembly easily.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] According to one embodiment, a paper container assembly
comprises first and second paper containers. The first paper
container includes a first continuous body portion and a first rim
having a first surface. The first rim encompasses and projects
laterally outwardly from the first body portion. The first surface
of the first rim includes a first cohesive. The second paper
container includes a second continuous body portion and a second
rim having a second surface. The second rim encompasses and
projects laterally outwardly from the second body portion. The
second surface of the second rim includes a second cohesive. The
first container and the second container are adapted to be
releasably attachable to each other by pressing the first and
second rims together such that the first cohesive and the second
cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
[0005] According to one method, a paper container assembly is
formed by providing a first paper container that includes a first
continuous body portion and a first rim having a first surface. The
first rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the
first body portion. The first surface of the first rim includes a
first cohesive. A second paper container is provided that includes
a second continuous body portion and a second rim having a second
surface. The second rim encompasses and projects laterally
outwardly from the second body portion. The second surface of the
second rim includes a second cohesive. One of the first container
and the second container is flipped such that the first container
and second container are generally aligned and the first rim and
the second rim are adjacent to each other. The first and second
rims are pressed together such that the first cohesive and the
second cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
[0006] According to one embodiment, a paper container to be used in
a paper container assembly comprises a continuous body portion and
a rim having a first surface. The rim encompasses and projects
laterally outwardly from the body portion. The first surface of the
rim includes a first cohesive. The rim is adapted to be releasably
attachable by pressing the rim together with a rim having a second
cohesive of a second container such that the first and second
cohesives are in contact with each other.
[0007] According to another embodiment, a paper container assembly
comprises a first paper container and a second paper container. The
first paper container includes a first continuous body portion, a
first handle and a second handle. The first and second handles
encompass and project laterally outwardly from the first body
portion. The first handle includes a first cohesive. The second
handle includes a second cohesive. The second paper container
includes a second continuous body portion, a third handle and a
fourth handle. The third and fourth handles encompass and project
laterally outwardly from the second body portion. The third handle
includes a third cohesive, while the fourth handle includes a
fourth cohesive. The first container and the second container are
adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the
first handle and the third handle together such that the first
cohesive and the third cohesive contact and releasably attach to
each other and pressing the second handle and the fourth handle
together such that the second cohesive and the fourth cohesive
contact and releasably attach to each other.
[0008] According to another method, a paper container assembly is
formed using first and second paper containers. The first paper
container is provided that includes a first continuous body
portion, a first handle, and a second handle. The first and second
handles encompass and project laterally outwardly from the first
body portion. The first handle includes a first cohesive, while the
second handle includes a second cohesive. The second paper
container is provided that includes a second continuous body
portion, a third handle and a fourth handle. The third and fourth
handles encompass and project laterally outwardly from the second
body portion. The third handle includes a third cohesive, while the
fourth handle includes a fourth cohesive. One of the first
container and the second container is flipped such that the first
and second handles of the first container are generally aligned
with respective third and fourth handles of the second container.
The first and third handles are pressed together such that the
first cohesive and the third cohesive contact and releasably attach
to each other. The second and fourth handles are pressed together
such that the second cohesive and the fourth cohesive contact and
releasably attach to each other.
[0009] According to another embodiment, a paper container to be
used in a container assembly comprises a continuous body portion, a
first handle and a second handle. The first and second handles
encompass and project laterally outwardly from the body portion.
The first and second handles include a first cohesive. The first
and second handles are adapted to be releasably attachable to
another container by pressing the first and second handles with
respective third and fourth handles having a second cohesive of a
second container.
[0010] According to one embodiment, a hinged paper container
comprises a paper base and a paper lid. The paper base includes a
first continuous body portion and a first rim having a first
surface. The first rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly
from the first body portion. The first surface of the first rim
includes a first cohesive. The paper lid includes a second
continuous body portion and a second rim having a second surface.
The second rim encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from
the second body portion. The second surface of the second rim
includes a second cohesive. The lid is hingedly attached to the
base. The first rim and the second rim are adapted to be releasably
attachable to each other by pressing the first and second rims
together such that the first cohesive and the second cohesive
contact and releasably attach to each other.
[0011] According to one method, a hinged paper container is formed
by providing a paper base including a first continuous body portion
and a first rim having a first surface. The first rim encompasses
and projects laterally outwardly from the first body portion. The
first surface of the first rim includes a first cohesive. A paper
lid is provided that includes a second continuous body portion and
a second rim having a second surface. The second rim encompasses
and projects laterally outwardly from the second body portion. The
second surface of the second rim includes a second cohesive. The
lid is hingedly attached to the base. The first and second rims are
pressed together such that the first cohesive and the second
cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
[0012] According to a further embodiment, a paper container
comprises a paper base and a paper lid. The paper base includes a
first continuous body portion and a first rim. The first rim
encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the first body
portion. The paper lid includes a second continuous body portion
and a second rim. The second rim encompasses and projects laterally
outwardly from the second body portion. Either the base or the lid
forms a tab and the other of the base and the lid forms a slot. The
tab has a surface that includes a second cohesive. The other of the
base and the lid has a surface including a second cohesive. The
base and lid are releasably attachable to each other by extending
the tab into the slot such that the first cohesive and the second
cohesive contact and releasably attach to each other.
[0013] According to yet another embodiment, a paper container
assembly comprises a first paper container and a second paper
container. The first paper container includes a first continuous
body portion and a first flap integrally connected to and extending
therefrom. The first continuous body portion has a first surface
located opposite of the first flap. The first surface has a first
cohesive. The first flap has a first inner surface including a
second cohesive. The second paper container includes a second
continuous body portion and a second flap integrally connected to
and extending therefrom. The second body portion has a second
surface located opposite of the second flap. The second surface has
a third cohesive. The second flap has a second inner surface
including a fourth cohesive. The first paper container and the
second paper container are adapted to be releasably attachable to
each other by contacting the first and fourth cohesives and
contacting the second and third cohesives.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1a is an exploded view of a container assembly
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 1b is a view of the container assembly of FIG. 1a in a
closed position.
[0016] FIG. 1c is an enlarged partial view of the container
assembly of FIG. 1b.
[0017] FIG. 2 in an enlarged partial view of a container assembly
generally showing a rim region according to another embodiment in a
closed position.
[0018] FIG. 3 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly
generally showing a rim region according to a further embodiment in
a closed position.
[0019] FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly
generally showing a rim region according to a yet another
embodiment in a closed position.
[0020] FIG. 5a is a side view of a container to be used in a
container assembly according to one embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 5b is a top view of the container of FIG. 5a.
[0022] FIG. 5c is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken generally
along lines 5c-5c in FIG. 5b.
[0023] FIG. 6a is a side view of a container assembly in a
releasably lockable position using the container of FIG. 5a and a
second identical container of FIG. 5a according to one embodiment
of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 6b is a top view of the container assembly of FIG.
6a.
[0025] FIG. 6c is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken generally
along lines 6c-6c in FIG. 6b.
[0026] FIG. 7a is a top view of a container with a plurality of
handles to be used in a container assembly according to one
embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 7b is a side view of a container assembly in a
releasably lockable position using the container of FIG. 7a and a
second identical container of FIG. 7a according to one embodiment
of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 7c is an enlarged partial view of the container
assembly generally showing a handle region of FIG. 7b.
[0029] FIG. 8 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly
generally showing a handle region according to another embodiment
in a closed position.
[0030] FIG. 9 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly
generally showing a handle region according to a further embodiment
in a closed position.
[0031] FIG. 10 is an enlarged partial view of a container assembly
generally showing a handle region according to a yet another
embodiment in a closed position.
[0032] FIG. 11a is a perspective view of a hinged container
according to one embodiment of the invention in an open
position.
[0033] FIG. 11b is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 11a
in the closed position.
[0034] FIG. 11c is an enlarged partial view of the hinged container
of FIG. 11b.
[0035] FIG. 12a is a perspective view of a hinged container
according to another embodiment of the invention in an open
position.
[0036] FIGS. 12b-d are enlarged partial views of the hinged
container of FIG. 12a generally directed to the rims in open and
closed positions according to one embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 13a is a front view of a container with a flap to be
used in a container assembly according to one embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 13b is a side view of the container of FIG. 13a.
[0039] FIG. 13c is a side view of a container assembly in a
releasably lockable position using the container of FIG. 13a and a
second identical container of FIG. 13a according to one embodiment
of the present invention.
[0040] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown
by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in
detail. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended
to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed but, on
the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications,
equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope
of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1a-c, a paper container assembly 100
according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The
container assembly includes a container 10 and a second container
110. The containers 10, 110 may be substantially the same or,
alternatively, identical to the container 10 to form a container
assembly that is releasably lockable.
[0042] It is contemplated that other container assemblies may be
formed besides those in FIGS. 1a-c. For example, container
assemblies may be formed, but are not limited to, using plates,
bowls, platters, tubs, single-serve and family-size containers,
single-serve and family-size ovenware, and combinations thereof.
One such combination is a bowl and a plate that forms a container
assembly. The remainder of the application generally discusses
container and container assemblies with respect to plates although
it is recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art that other
container assemblies, such as those discussed above, may be
formed.
[0043] The height and shape of the container assemblies may vary
from that shown without departing from the scope of the invention.
For example, the container assembly of FIGS. 1a-c, as will be
discussed, is depicted as being generally circular. It is
contemplated that the container assemblies and containers used
herein may be other shapes such as rectangular, square, hexagonal,
octagonal, other polygonal shapes, or non-polygonal shapes such as
ovals.
[0044] The container assemblies and containers of the present
invention are typically used with respect to food, but may be used
in other applications such as to store household goods, medical
supplies, cosmetics or other items. Food container assemblies and
containers may be used for serving, storing, preparing and/or
re-heating the food.
[0045] Referring still to FIGS. 1a-c, the paper container 10
includes a continuous body portion 12 and a continuous rim 14
encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the body
portion 12. The body portion 12 includes a bottom 16 and a
continuous sidewall 18 encompassing and projecting upwardly and
outwardly from the bottom 16. It is contemplated that the sidewall
may project only upwardly from the bottom 16 or even project
upwardly and inwardly from the bottom 16. It is also contemplated
that the rim may not be continuous, although it is desirably
continuous.
[0046] As shown in FIGS. 1a,c, the rim 14 includes a surface 14a
(upper surface of container 10 in FIG. 1a). The rim 14 includes a
cohesive 20. Cohesive is defined herein as a material that will
adhere to itself. One example of a type of cohesive that may be
used is a water-soluble cohesive. One specific example of a
cohesive that may be used is Product No. C-2159P85, which is a
cohesive available from Ellsworth Adhesives. This particular
cohesive will stick to itself at temperatures of from about 20 to
about 400.degree. F.
[0047] The use of a cohesive negates the need for an external
latching mechanism. This is shown, for example, in the container
assembly 100 of FIGS. 1a-c. As will be discussed below in
connection with FIGS. 5a-c, 6a-c, the use of a cohesive may,
however, assist a mechanical locking feature created from the
container itself.
[0048] It is contemplated that other cohesives may be used. For
example, it is contemplated that a non-water soluble cohesive may
be used. Non-water soluble cohesives, however, may have
disadvantages such as (a) gaining FDA approval in applications
involving food, and (b) possible reactions with the paper
containers themselves.
[0049] The cohesives of the present invention generally have a pull
strength of greater than about 0.5 lb. and, typically, have a pull
strength of greater than 1.0 lb.
[0050] The cohesive 20 is shown in FIG. 1a as being continuously
applied around and in the general shape of the rim surface 14a. It
is contemplated that the cohesive may be applied to the entire
surface of the rim rather than a portion shown in, for example,
FIG. 1a. According to another embodiment, the cohesive is applied
to substantial portions of the rim surface. The cohesive may also
be applied intermittently around the rim such as in a pattern.
[0051] The cohesive 20 may be applied to the rim 14 by a variety of
methods. For example, the cohesive may be sprayed onto the rim. The
spraying may be performed in patterns to efficiently use the
cohesive, while still providing a desired holding strength.
According to another method, the cohesive may be printed onto the
rim. Non-limiting printing techniques that may be used include silk
screening, flexo printing, and electrostatic screen printing. Any
application method may be used for applying the cohesive 20 to the
rim 14 provided that it enables a sufficient amount of cohesive 20
to be applied to achieve the desired holding strength.
[0052] Referring still to FIGS. 1a-c, the paper container 110
includes a continuous body portion 112 and a continuous rim 114
encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the body
portion 118. The body portion 112 includes a bottom 116 and a
continuous sidewall 118 encompassing and projecting upwardly and
outwardly from the bottom 116. It is contemplated that the sidewall
may project only upwardly from the bottom 116 or even project
upwardly and inwardly from the bottom 116. It is also contemplated
that the rim may not be continuous, although it is desirably
continuous.
[0053] The rim 114 includes a surface 114a (bottom-most surface of
container 110 in FIG. 1a). The rim 114 includes a cohesive 120 (see
FIG. 1c). The cohesive may be the same as described above in
connection with cohesive 20. The cohesives 20, 120 are typically
the same. It is contemplated that the cohesives may be different as
long as the cohesives 20, 120 can releasably attach to each
other.
[0054] The paper containers 10, 110 are adapted to be releasably
attachable to each other by pressing the rims 14, 114 together such
that the cohesives 20, 120 contact and releasably attach to each
other.
[0055] As shown best in FIG. 1c, the rim 14 forms at least one
recess 30 therein. Similarly, the rim 114 forms at least one recess
130 therein. The recess 30 includes the cohesive 20, while the
recess 130 includes the cohesive 120. By using recesses 30, 130,
the paper containers 10, 110 are releasably attached only after the
rims 14, 114 are pressed together because the cohesives 20, 120 are
initially located only below a remaining surface of the rims 14,
114. FIG. 1c shows the attached paper containers 10, 110 after the
rims 14, 114 have been pressed together.
[0056] According to another embodiment, a container assembly may
include rims in which each rim forms a plurality of recesses. For
example, referring to FIG. 2, a rim 44 encompasses and projects
laterally outwardly from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12).
The rim 44 forms a plurality of recesses 46a,b in which each of the
recesses contains a respective one of cohesives 50a,b. The rim 44
is pressed together with a rim 144, which includes a plurality of
recesses 146a,b in which each of the recesses contains a respective
one of cohesives 150a,b. The rims 44, 144 function in a similar
manner as rims 14, 114 described above. It is contemplated that the
number of recesses and the dimensions of the recesses may vary from
that shown in FIG. 2.
[0057] According to a further embodiment, a container assembly may
include rims in which each rim forms a plurality of ripples. For
example, referring to FIG. 3, a rim 64 encompasses and projects
laterally outwardly from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12).
The rim 64 forms a plurality of ripples 66a-c projecting generally
upwardly therefrom with respective spaces 68a,b being formed
between adjacent ones of the plurality of ripples 66a-c. Each of
the spaces 68a,b contains a respective cohesive 70a,b. The rim 64
is pressed together with a rim 164, which forms a plurality of
ripples 166a-c projecting generally upwardly therefrom with
respective spaces 168a,b being formed between adjacent ones of the
plurality of ripples 166a-c. Each of the spaces 168a,b contains a
respective cohesive 170a,b.
[0058] The containers that contain the rims 64, 164 are releasably
attachable to each other by pressing the rims 64, 164 together such
that the cohesives 70a,b contact and releasably attach to the
respective cohesives 170a,b. It is contemplated that the number of
ripples may vary from that shown in FIG. 3.
[0059] According to a further embodiment, a container assembly may
include rims in which each rim has a surface that is generally
planar. For example, referring to FIG. 4, a rim 74 encompasses and
projects laterally outwardly from a body portion (e.g., body
portion 12). A cohesive 80 contacts a surface 74a of the rim 74
(upper surface of rim 74 as viewed in FIG. 4). The rim 74 is
pressed together with a rim 174, in which a cohesive 180 contacts a
surface 174a of the rim 174 (lower surface of rim as viewed in FIG.
4).
[0060] According to another embodiment and referring specifically
to FIGS. 5a-c, a paper container 210 includes a continuous body
portion 212 and a continuous rim 214 encompassing and projecting
laterally outwardly from the body portion 212. The body portion 212
includes a bottom 216 and a continuous sidewall 218 encompassing
and projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 216. It is
contemplated that the sidewall may project only upwardly from the
bottom 216 or even project upwardly and inwardly from the bottom
216. It is also contemplated that the rim may not be continuous,
although it is desirably continuous.
[0061] The continuous rim 214 includes a plurality of ribs 220 that
projects generally upwardly therefrom. The plurality of ribs 220 is
spaced around the general periphery of the paper container 210 and
assists in forming a releasably lockable container assembly. The
orientation of the plurality of ribs 220 creates a pattern that is
generally normal to the direction of the rim 214. More
specifically, the orientation of the plurality of ribs 220 may
create a pattern that is normal to the direction of the rim 14. In
a radial configuration with a pattern that is normal to the
direction of the rim, each of the plurality of ribs 220, if
extended inwardly, would pass through the general center of the
plate. It is contemplated that other features besides the plurality
of ribs may project upwardly from the continuous rim.
[0062] The plurality of ribs 220, however, may be formed in
different patterns than shown in FIG. 5b with respect to the rim
214 (e.g., diagonally). It may be desirable to form the plurality
of ribs 220 in a decorative pattern for aesthetic reasons. Such a
decorative feature may assist in "hiding" or disguising the
releasable lockable feature in the container 210. The container 210
of FIG. 5b has exactly 60 ribs formed in the continuous rim 214. It
is contemplated that the number of ribs may vary from that shown in
FIG. 5b. For example, a container may have from about 3 to about 10
ribs. A container may have greater than about 20 or about 40 ribs,
and may even have up to or greater than about 120 ribs. The number
of ribs is generally from about 20 to about 60 ribs.
[0063] Turning to FIG. 5c, the plurality of ribs 220 is shown in
greater detail. Specifically, a cross-sectional view of FIG. 5c
shows two adjacent ribs that project upwardly from the continuous
rim 214. FIG. 5c depicts a first rib 220a and a second rib 220b
with a space 222 being formed therebetween. The first rib 220a of
FIG. 5c comprises a generally flat surface 224 that bridges two
sidewalls 226, 228. The first rib 220a is shown as being generally
perpendicular to the plane of the remainder of the continuous rim
14. Specifically, the first rib 220a is shown as being generally
perpendicular to plane CC formed along the remainder of the rim 214
in FIG. 5c. More specifically, the rib may be perpendicular to the
plane of the remainder of the rim. The sidewalls 226, 228 are
spaced apart from each other and are shown as being generally
perpendicular to the plane CC of the remainder of the rim 214. The
sidewalls 226, 228, however, do not necessarily have to be
generally perpendicular or perpendicular to the remainder of the
rim 214.
[0064] Similarly, second rib 220b of FIG. 5c comprises a generally
flat surface 230 that bridges two sidewalls 232, 234. The second
rib 220b is also shown as being generally perpendicular to the
plane CC of the remainder of the rim 214. The sidewalls 232, 234
are spaced apart from each other and are shown as being generally
perpendicular to the plane CC of the remainder of the rim 14. The
sidewalls 232, 234, however, do not necessarily have to be
generally perpendicular or perpendicular to the remainder of the
rim 214.
[0065] To provide an improved locked container assembly, in one
embodiment, the cohesive is added in the spaces formed between the
ribs and added to a generally flat surface of the ribs themselves.
For example, in FIG. 5c, cohesives 240a,b are added to the spaces
formed between adjacent ribs. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 5c,
cohesives 242a,b are added to respective surfaces 224, 230. The
cohesives may be the same as described above in connection with
cohesive 20.
[0066] Additionally, to further provide an improved locked
container assembly, at least one of the rib sidewalls may have an
undercut. Such an optional undercut formed in the rib sidewall
engages a similar undercut in a corresponding space formed between
adjacent ribs of a second container when the container assembly is
formed. For example, in FIG. 5c, optional undercuts 226a, 228a are
formed in respective sidewalls 226, 228. It is contemplated that
the shape and size of the plurality of ribs 220 may vary from that
shown in FIGS. 5a-c.
[0067] A paper container assembly 300 according to one embodiment
of the present invention is depicted in FIGS. 6a-c. The paper
container assembly 300 includes the first container 210 and a
second container 310. In one embodiment, the second container 310
is shaped substantially the same as the first container 210.
Alternatively, the second container 310 may be identical to the
first container 210.
[0068] The paper container assembly 300 of FIGS. 6a,b may be formed
according to one method by providing the first container 210 and
the second container 310. The second container 310 includes a
continuous body portion 312 and a continuous rim 314 that
encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the body portion
312.
[0069] The second container 310 is flipped 180 degrees relative to
the first container 210 such that the containers 210, 310 are
generally aligned and the rims 214, 314 are adjacent to each other.
This flipped position of container 310 relative to the container
210 is shown in FIG. 6a. To fit the ribs into respective spaces,
the container 310 may have to be rotated slightly such that the
ribs are offset (i.e., the ribs and spaces are aligned). It is
desirable that the consumer can assemble the containers so as to
form a container assembly of the present invention.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 6c, adjacent ribs 320a, 320b of the
container 310 are fit into respective second spaces 222a, 222b of
the container 210 and ribs 220a, 220b of the container 210 are fit
into respective spaces 322a, 322b such that the container assembly
300 is releasably lockable. To fit the ribs into respective spaces,
the container 310 may have to be rotated slightly such that the
ribs are offset (i.e., the ribs and spaces are aligned). The
cohesives 240a,b releasably attach with respective cohesives
250a,b, while cohesives 242a,b releasably attach with respective
cohesives 252a,b. As discussed above, the cohesives 240,250 are
desirably the same, but may be different as long as they releasably
attach to each other. FIG. 6c also depicts interference areas 324a,
324b formed between the first rib 220a and the space 322a created
between ribs 320a, 320b of the container 310.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 7a, a paper container 410 includes a
continuous body portion 412 and a plurality of handles 424, 426
encompassing and projecting laterally outwardly from the body
portion 412. The body portion 412 includes a bottom 416 and a
continuous sidewall 418 encompassing and projecting upwardly and
outwardly from the bottom 416. It is contemplated that the sidewall
may project only upwardly from the bottom 416 or even project
upwardly and inwardly from the bottom 416. Each of the plurality of
handles 424, 426 includes a respective surface 424a, 426a (upper
surface in FIG. 7a). The surfaces 424a, 426a form respective
recesses that include a respective cohesive 420, 422 (see, e.g.,
recess 430 of FIG. 7c). The cohesives 420, 422 may be the same as
described above in connection with cohesive 20. The cohesives 420,
422 are typically the same. It is contemplated that the cohesives
may be different as long as the cohesives can releasably attach to
each other.
[0072] Referring to FIGS. 7b,c, a paper container assembly 400
includes the paper container 410 and a paper container 460. The
paper container 460 includes a continuous body portion 462 and a
plurality of handles 474, 476 encompassing and projecting laterally
outwardly from the body portion 462. The body portion 462 includes
a bottom 466 and a continuous sidewall 468 encompassing and
projecting upwardly and outwardly from the bottom 466. The
orientation of the container 460 in FIG. 7b is opposite from that
described above since the container 460 has been flipped 180
degrees. It is contemplated that the sidewall may project only
upwardly from the bottom 466 or even project upwardly and inwardly
from the bottom 466.
[0073] Each of the plurality of handles 474, 476 includes a
respective surface that forms a recess. Each of the recesses
contains a respective cohesive. For example, in FIG. 7c, the handle
476 includes a surface 476a (bottom surface of container 460 in
FIG. 7c) that forms a recess 480. The recess 480 contains cohesive
472. The cohesives used in the plurality of handles 424, 426, 474,
and 476 may be the same as described above in connection with
cohesive 20.
[0074] The paper container 410 and the paper container 460 are
adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing the
plurality of handles 424, 426, 474, and 476 together such that
respective cohesives contact and releasably attach to each other
(see FIG. 7c with cohesives 422 and 472).
[0075] As discussed above, each of the plurality of handles forms
at least one recess therein. For example, in FIG. 7c, the handle
426 forms a recess 430 that includes the cohesive 422 and the
handle 476 forms a recess 480 that includes the cohesive 472. By
using recesses 430, 480, the paper containers 410, 460 are
releasably attached only after the handles are pressed together
because the cohesives 422, 472 are initially located only below the
remaining surface of the handles 426, 476. FIG. 7c shows the paper
containers 410, 460 after the handles have been pressed together.
The other handles 424, 474 function in the same manner as the
handles 426, 476 shown in FIG. 7c.
[0076] According to another embodiment, a container assembly may
include a plurality of handles that forms a plurality of recesses.
For example, referring to FIG. 8, a container assembly 510 includes
a plurality of handles (handles 514, 524 are shown in FIG. 8). The
handle 514 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from a body
portion (e.g., body portion 12). The handle 514 forms a plurality
of recesses 516a,b in which each of the recesses contains a
respective one of the cohesives 520a,b. The handle 514 is pressed
together with the handle 524, which includes a plurality of
recesses 526a,b in which each of the recesses contains a respective
one of the cohesives 530a,b. The handles 514, 524 function in a
similar manner as handles 426, 476 described above. It is
contemplated that the number of recesses may vary from that shown
in FIG. 8.
[0077] According to a further embodiment, a container assembly may
include a plurality of handles in which each handle forms a
plurality of ripples. For example, referring to FIG. 9, a container
assembly 540 includes a plurality of handles (handles 544, 554 are
shown in FIG. 9). The handle 544 encompasses and projects laterally
outwardly from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12). The handle
544 forms a plurality of ripples 546a-c projecting generally
upwardly therefrom with respective spaces 548a,b being formed
between adjacent ones of the plurality of ripples 546a-c. Each of
the spaces 548a,b contains a respective cohesive 550a,b. The handle
544 is pressed together with the handle 554 of a second container.
The handle 554 forms a plurality of ripples 556a-c projecting
generally upwardly therefrom with respective spaces 558a,b being
formed between adjacent ones of the plurality of ripples 556a-c.
Each of the spaces 558a,b contains a respective cohesive
560a,b.
[0078] The containers that contain the handles are adapted to be
releasably attachable to each other by pressing the handles
together such that the cohesives 550a,b contact and releasably
attach to respective cohesives 560a,b. It is contemplated that the
number of ripples may vary from that shown in FIG. 9.
[0079] According to a further embodiment, a container assembly may
include a plurality of handles with surfaces that are generally
planar. For example, referring to FIG. 10, a container assembly 570
includes a plurality of handles (handles 574, 584 are shown in FIG.
10). The handle 574 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly
from a body portion (e.g., body portion 12). A cohesive 580
contacts a surface 574a of the handle 574. The handle 574 is
pressed together with the handle 584 of another container 580. The
handle 584 includes a surface 584a that includes a cohesive 590.
The cohesives 580, 590 contact each other and releasably attach to
form the container assembly 570.
[0080] According to another embodiment shown in FIG. 11a,b, a
hinged paper container 600 comprises a paper base 610 and a paper
lid 630 in which the lid 630 is hingedly attached to the paper base
610 via hinge 650. The paper base 610 includes a continuous body
portion 612 and a continuous rim 614 having a surface 614a. The rim
614 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from the body
portion 612. The surface 614a of the rim 614 includes a cohesive
620.
[0081] The paper lid 630 includes a continuous body portion 632 and
a continuous rim 634 having a surface 634a. The rim 634 encompasses
and projects laterally outwardly from the body portion 632. The
surface 634a of the rim 634 includes a cohesive 640. The cohesives
620, 640 may be the same as described above in connection with
cohesive 20. The cohesives 620, 640 are typically the same, but it
is contemplated that the cohesives may be different as long as the
cohesives can releasably attach to each other. The rims 614, 634
are adapted to be releasably attachable to each other by pressing
the rims 614, 634 together such that the cohesives 620, 640 contact
and releasably attach to each other.
[0082] According to one embodiment, the rims 614, 634 form a
respective recess therein in which each of the recesses contains a
cohesive. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11c, rims 614, 634 form
respective recesses 628, 648 therein. The recesses 628, 648 include
respective cohesives 620, 640. By using the recesses 628, 648, the
hinged paper container is placed in a closed position only after
the rims 614, 634 are pressed together because the cohesives 620,
640 are initially located below the remaining surfaces of the rims
614, 634. FIG. 11c shows the rims 614, 634 after they have been
pressed together.
[0083] The height and shape of the hinged paper container may vary
from that shown in FIGS. 11a,b without departing from the scope of
the invention. For example, the hinged paper container of FIGS.
11a,b is depicted as being generally square. It is contemplated
that the hinged paper container may be other shapes such as
circular, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, other polygonal
shapes, or non-polygonal shapes such as ovals.
[0084] The hinged paper container may contain the cohesives on rims
that are shaped differently than depicted in FIGS. 11a-c. For
example, in one embodiment, the hinged paper container includes
rims that form a plurality of recesses that contains cohesives such
as rims 44, 144 of FIG. 2. According to another embodiment, the
hinged paper container includes rims that form a plurality of
ripples that contains cohesives such as rims 64, 164 in FIG. 3.
According to a further embodiment, the hinged paper container
includes rims that has generally planar surfaces with cohesives
such as rims 74, 174 in FIG. 4.
[0085] According to another embodiment shown in FIGS. 12a-d, a
hinged paper container 700 comprises a paper base 710 and a paper
lid 730 in which the lid 730 is hingedly attached to the paper base
710 via hinge 750. The paper base 710 includes a continuous body
portion 712 and a continuous rim 714. The rim 714 encompasses and
projects laterally outwardly from the body portion 712. The paper
lid 730 includes a continuous body portion 732 and a continuous rim
734. The rim 734 encompasses and projects laterally outwardly from
the body portion 732.
[0086] According to one embodiment, the paper lid 730 forms a tab
760 and the paper base 710 forms a slot or opening 770 (see FIG.
12b). The tab 760 has a surface 760a that includes a cohesive 762.
The base 710 includes the rim 714 with a surface 714a that includes
a cohesive 772. The base 710 and lid 730 are releasably attachable
to each other by extending the tab 760 into the slot 770 such that
the cohesives 762, 772 contact and releasably attach to each other.
As shown in FIGS. 12b-d, the tab 760 extends through the slot 770
and is adapted to bend (in the counterclockwise direction of arrow
A) such that the cohesives 762, 772 contact and releasably attach
to each other.
[0087] The cohesives 762, 772 may be the same as described above in
connection with cohesive 20. The cohesives 762, 772 are typically
the same, but it is contemplated that the cohesives may be
different as long as the cohesives can releasably attach to each
other.
[0088] It is contemplated that the tab 760 may extend through the
slot 770 and be pushed upwardly in a clockwise direction (the
direction opposite of arrow A in FIG. 12c) such that cohesives
contact and relesably attach to each other. In such an embodiment,
a cohesive would be located on surface 760b as opposed to surface
760a (see FIG. 12b). The location of the cohesive on the paper base
would be located to the left of slot 770 as viewed in FIG. 12b. In
such an embodiment, the slot or opening may be relocated further to
the right as viewed in FIG. 12b to provide a greater surface area
for the cohesives to attach to each other.
[0089] The height and shape of the hinged paper container may vary
from that shown in FIGS. 12a-d without departing from the scope of
the invention. For example, the hinged paper container of FIGS.
12a-d is depicted as being generally square. It is contemplated
that the hinged paper container may be other shapes such as
circular, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, other polygonal
shapes, or non-polygonal shapes such as ovals. It is contemplated
that the cohesive may be included on the rims such as shown in
FIGS. 11a-c.
[0090] According to another embodiment shown in FIG. 13c, a paper
container assembly 800 comprises a paper container 810 (FIGS.
13a-c) and a paper container 850 (FIG. 13c). The paper container
810 includes a continuous body portion 812 and a flap 814
integrally connected to and extending therefrom. The body portion
812 has a surface 812a located opposite of the flap 814. The
surface 812a includes a cohesive 820. The flap 814 has a surface
814a that includes a cohesive 830.
[0091] The paper container 850 (FIG. 13c) includes a continuous
body portion 852 and a flap 854 integrally connected to and
extending therefrom. The body portion 852 has a surface 852a
located opposite of the flap 854. The surface 852a includes a
cohesive 870. The flap 854 has a surface 854a that includes a
cohesive 880. The containers 810, 850 are adapted to be releasably
attachable to each other by contacting the cohesives 820, 880 and
contacting the cohesives 830, 870 to each other.
[0092] The cohesives 820, 830, 870, and 880 may be the same as
described above in connection with cohesive 20. The cohesives 820,
830, 870, and 880 are typically the same, but it is contemplated
that the cohesives may be different as long as the cohesives can
releasably attach to each other.
[0093] It is contemplated that the container assembly may include a
plurality of flaps. For example, each of the paper containers
forming the container assembly may include two flaps with
cohesives. Each of these flaps is adapted to be releasably
attachable to the other container by contacting the cohesives to
each other.
[0094] The container and container assemblies of the present
invention (e.g., the containers discussed above in FIGS. 1-13) are
formed from paper materials. The paper containers and container
assemblies may be formed from materials such as paperboard,
laminated paper or molded fiber. It is contemplated that one of
ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other paper materials
or combination of paper materials may be used to form the
containers and container assemblies. The containers to be used in
forming the container assemblies of the present invention may be
formed, for example, by using conventional paper processing
techniques.
[0095] The containers and container assemblies of the present
invention are typically disposable, but it is contemplated that
they may be reused at a future time. The containers used in forming
the container assemblies (e.g., container 10) are shown as
including one compartment. It is contemplated that the containers
may be formed of multiple compartments. Such containers are
desirable for placing items (e.g., food items) in different
compartments to prevent or inhibit commingling of items. For
example, undesirable mixing of food items can corrupt the flavor
and the consistency of the food items.
[0096] The container assemblies and containers of the present
invention are typically used with respect to food, but may be used
in other applications such as to store household goods, medical
supplies, cosmetics or other items. Food container assemblies and
containers may be used for serving, storing, preparing and/or
re-heating the food.
[0097] A method of using such container assemblies includes placing
the food and locking the containers to form a container assembly
with food therein. The container assembly is then placed in a
heating apparatus and heated. Typical heating apparatuses include
microwaves and conventional ovens. The container assemblies may
contain solid food products. The container assemblies may be used
for storage in the refrigerator and/or the freezer.
[0098] While particular embodiments and applications of the present
invention have been illustrated and described, it is to be
understood that the invention is not limited to the precise
construction disclosed herein and that various modifications,
changes, and variations may be apparent from the foregoing
descriptions without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention as defined in the appended claims.
* * * * *