U.S. patent application number 11/366375 was filed with the patent office on 2006-10-12 for container having textured grip and enhanced wall integrity.
Invention is credited to Luis Alberto Amador, Thomas J. Hayes, H. Bernard Kirkland, Michael J. Maczuzak, David K. Orr, Jose Victor Rodriguez, Ashwin N. Shah.
Application Number | 20060226162 11/366375 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34966019 |
Filed Date | 2006-10-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060226162 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hayes; Thomas J. ; et
al. |
October 12, 2006 |
Container having textured grip and enhanced wall integrity
Abstract
A nestable or stackable container having at least one recess
formed in the sidewall of the container to improve wall strength
integrity. The surface of the recess further including texturing to
improve grippability such that the container can be grasped in any
direction while providing improved tactile engagement. An
anti-rotation element is formed in the sidewall of the container
and is configured to prevent rotation movement of the container
when in a stacked or nested arrangement with a second
container.
Inventors: |
Hayes; Thomas J.; (McHenry,
IL) ; Shah; Ashwin N.; (Fairport, NY) ; Orr;
David K.; (Seattle, WA) ; Maczuzak; Michael J.;
(Bratenahl, OH) ; Rodriguez; Jose Victor; (Zapopan
Jalisco, MX) ; Amador; Luis Alberto; (Zapopan
Jalisco, MX) ; Kirkland; H. Bernard; (Lindenhurst,
IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BAKER BOTTS, LLP
30 ROCKEFELLER PLAZA
NEW YORK
NY
10112-4498
US
|
Family ID: |
34966019 |
Appl. No.: |
11/366375 |
Filed: |
March 1, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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29240847 |
Oct 19, 2005 |
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11366375 |
Mar 1, 2006 |
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11069794 |
Mar 1, 2005 |
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11366375 |
Mar 1, 2006 |
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29215059 |
Oct 12, 2004 |
D515358 |
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11069794 |
Mar 1, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/791 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 1/40 20130101; B65D
1/265 20130101; B65D 25/2897 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/791 |
International
Class: |
B65D 39/00 20060101
B65D039/00 |
Claims
1. A container comprising: a base defining a closed bottom; and a
side wall extending upwardly from the base, the side wall having an
outer surface and at least one recess formed therein, the recessed
surface having a surface texture different than a surface texture
of the outer surface; and at least one anti-rotation interlock
element disposed on the sidewall of the container and capable of
engaging a similar anti-rotation interlock element of a second
container.
2. The container of claim 1 wherein the at least one anti-rotation
interlock element is disposed in a first or second portion of the
sidewall of the container, or between said first and second
portions.
3. The container of claim 1, wherein the at least one anti-rotation
interlock element includes a protruding shelf having a depth
varying along a height of the at least one anti-rotation interlock
element.
4. The container of claim 3, wherein the depth increases along the
height of the at least one anti-rotation interlock element.
5. The container of claim 3, wherein the depth decreases along the
height of the at least one anti-rotation interlock element.
6. The container of claim 1, wherein the base comprises a
circumferentially oriented basewall and at least one anti-rotation
interlock element disposed in the base wall of the container.
7. The container of claim 1, wherein the at least one anti-rotation
interlock element is axially aligned with the at least one
recess.
8. The container of claim 1, wherein the container includes at
least two recesses, and further wherein the at least one
anti-rotation interlock element is disposed between the at least
two recesses.
9. The container of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of
anti-rotation interlock elements.
10. The container of claim 9, wherein the plurality of
anti-rotation interlock elements includes a first anti-rotation
interlock element and a second anti-rotation interlock element, the
first anti-rotation interlock element being disposed on an opposite
side of the container than the second anti-rotation interlock
element.
11. The container of claim 1, wherein the at least one
anti-rotation interlock element comprises a depression or a
protuberance.
12. The container of claim 1, wherein the at least one
anti-rotation element includes a finger grip configured to receive
a finger.
13. The container of claim 12, wherein the finger grip has a
surface, the surface being indented or raised.
14. The container of claim 12, wherein the surface of the finger
grip includes texture.
15. The container of claim 1, wherein the at least one
anti-rotation interlock element has a curvilinear, polygonal, or
polyhedronal surface.
16. A container comprising: a base defining a closed bottom; a
sidewall extending upwardly from the base, the sidewall having an
outer surface; and at least one anti-rotation interlock element
formed in the sidewall, the anti-rotation interlock element
including at least one recess having a recessed surface and a
depth, the recessed surface having a surface texture different than
a surface texture of the outer surface.
17. The container of claim 16, wherein the at least one recess has
a curvilinear shape.
18. The container of claim 17, wherein the curvilinear shape is a
parabola.
19. The container of claim 16, wherein the sidewall has a first
portion proximate the base, and a second portion defining an open
mouth, the at least one recess defining a boundary edge that
extends at least partially into the second portion.
20. The container of claim 16, wherein the at least one
anti-rotation interlock element includes a protruding shelf having
a depth varying along a height of the at least one anti-rotation
interlock element.
21. The container of claim 16, wherein the depth increases along
the height of the at least one anti-rotation interlock element.
22. A stack of nestable containers, the stack comprising a first
container; and a second container received within the first
container; each of the first container and the second container
being substantially similar in shape and including a base defining
a closed bottom; and a side wall extending upwardly from the base,
the side wall having an outer surface and at least one recess
formed therein, the recessed surface having a surface texture
different than a surface texture of the outer surface; and at least
one anti-rotation interlock element disposed on the sidewall of the
container.
23. The stack of claim 22, wherein the at least one anti-rotation
interlock element includes at least one depression or at least one
protuberance formed in the container.
24. The stack of claim 22, wherein the at least one anti-rotation
interlock element includes a protruding shelf having a depth
varying along a height of the at least one anti-rotation interlock
element.
25. The stack of claim 24, wherein the depth increases along the
height of the at least one anti-rotation interlock element.
26. The stack of claim 24, wherein the depth decreases along the
height of the at least one anti-rotation interlock element.
27. The stack of claim 22, wherein the at least one anti-rotation
element includes a finger grip.
28. The stack of claim 27, wherein the finger grip has an indented
or raised surface.
29. The stack of claim 27, wherein the surface of the finger grip
includes texture.
30. The stack of claim 22, wherein the at least one anti-rotation
interlock element is configured as a curvilinear, polygonal,
polyhedronal, square, triangular, diamond, pyramidal, chevron, or
spherical shape.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/069,794, filed Mar. 1, 2005, and
U.S. Design Pat. Application No. 29/240,857, filed Oct. 18, 2005,
each of which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. D 515,358,
issued Feb. 21, 2006, the contents of each are incorporated herein
in their entirety by reference thereto.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to an improved nestable
container, such as for food or beverages. More particularly, the
present invention is directed to a nestable container having
enhanced wall integrity, increased rim strength, and improved
tactile engagement.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] A variety of thermoplastic containers, such as containers
for food and beverages, are well known in the art. Such
thermoplastic containers are relatively inexpensive and disposable;
and therefore are extremely popular. Such containers are often used
at parties, picnics, gatherings, and other occasions where little
or no clean-up is desired.
[0006] Although thermoplastic containers offer consumers many
benefits, there are certain drawbacks affiliated with manufacture
and use of thermoplastic containers. For instance, such a container
can have a weak or flimsy side wall, as well as a weak rim. For
instance, many consumers using thermoplastic drinking cups have
experienced collapsing or crushing of the side wall when the
container is grasped by the consumer. Similarly, the rim of such
container can flex inward when a cup is gripped around the
periphery of the rim. Conventional containers, which have side
walls and rims that exhibit little crush resistance, therefore can
cause messy spills and unwanted waste.
[0007] Another problem associated with thermoplastic containers is
the lack of grippability due to condensation forming on the
sidewall of the container, as well as the insufficient coefficient
of friction of the material of the container. Conventional
containers typically have a sidewall made of a smooth outer
surface. Such a smooth outer surface can be very slippery when wet,
for example, by condensation. Thus, it is difficult for a consumer
to obtain a comfortable and sufficient grip on a container having a
smooth outer surface, unless extra force is used to grip the
container. However, as mentioned above, the typical container can
have a sidewall that lacks sufficient crush resistance to withstand
the extra gripping force required.
[0008] Numerous attempts have been made to develop and improved
container having suitable crush resistance and improved tactile
engagement without increased manufacturing costs. For example, U.S.
Pat. No. 6,554,154, the contents of which is incorporated herein by
reference, discloses a container having a double set of annular
ribs to provide a side wall container. Although suitable for its
intended purpose, there remains a need for a container having the
desired characteristics without the limitation of required
ribs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The purpose and advantages of the present invention will be
set forth in and apparent from the description that follows, as
well as will be learned by practice of the invention. Additional
advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the
methods and systems particularly pointed out in the written
description and claims hereof.
[0010] Containers having enhanced wall integrity and improved
gripping features are disclosed herein. Generally, each of the
disclosed containers of the present invention has a base defining a
closed bottom and a side wall extending upwardly from the base. The
side wall has an outer surface and at least one recess formed in
the outer surface. The recessed surface has a texture that is
different than the surface texture of the outer surface of the side
wall.
[0011] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the at least
one recess is defined by a boundary edge. In one preferred
embodiment, the boundary edge has a curvilinear shape. In a further
preferred embodiment, the boundary edge has a parabolic shape.
However, the boundary edge can be configured to have alternative
shapes, if desired.
[0012] In one aspect of the invention, the container includes at
least three recesses formed in the side wall. For example and not
limitation, a preferred container has four recesses formed in the
side wall. The at least three recesses can be disposed equally
about the periphery of the side wall of the container. Each of the
at least three recesses can be defined by a boundary edge having a
similar curvilinear shape and size. However, it is to be understood
that at least some of the recesses can have a shape or size that is
different than another recess of the same container.
[0013] In one embodiment, the at least one recess forms a recessed
surface having a texture that increases tactile engagement.
Although a variety of textures can be used, a preferred texture has
a multidirectional surface pattern capable of increasing tactile
engagement generally in any direction. In a preferred aspect of the
invention, the multidirectional surface pattern includes an
irregular surface pattern of protrusions and/or indentations, such
as bumps, peaks and valleys. For example and not limitation, the
texture can extend circumferentially, axially, or diagonally across
the recessed surface. In accordance with a further preferred aspect
of the invention, the texture extends entirely across the recessed
surface.
[0014] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the
container is stackable with a second container of similar shape. In
this aspect of the invention, each container includes an abutment
portion to abut an adjacent container of similar shape, which is
received in the mouth of the first container. The abutment portion
is generally disposed proximate the base and includes a shoulder
defined between the upstanding basewall and the side wall of the
container. The shoulder defines a ledge along an inner surface of
the container, such that either the bottom wall or the shoulder of
an adjacent container, as desired, abuts the ledge of the first
container to maintain a defined spacing therebetween.
[0015] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the
container includes at least one anti-rotation interlock element.
The at least one anti-rotation interlock element is configured to
interlock with the adjacent container, which is received in the
mouth of a first container, and thus limit or inhibit the
independent rotation of each container, if necessary or desired. In
one embodiment, the at least one anti-rotation interlock element
includes a plurality of depressions disposed about the periphery of
the side wall of the container. In another embodiment, the at least
one anti-rotation interlock element includes a plurality of
protuberances disposed about the periphery of the sidewall of the
container. Alternatively, however, the at least one anti-rotation
interlock elements can be formed in the basewall of the container,
if desired.
[0016] The plurality of depressions or the plurality of
protuberances can be aligned with or disposed between adjacent
recesses. At least one anti-rotation interlock element can have a
height less than the height of the at least one recess. In this
regard, and in a preferred embodiment, the container includes
alternating recesses and depressions or protuberances along the
periphery of the side wall, the height of each anti-rotation
interlock element being less than the height of each adjacent
recess.
[0017] In another aspect of the invention, the base of the
container includes at least one indentation formed in the
upstanding base wall along a periphery of the closed bottom. In one
aspect, the indentation is axially aligned with a depression, if
provided.
[0018] In another aspect of the invention, a stack of nestable
containers is provided. The stack comprises a first container and a
second container received within the first container. Each of the
containers is substantially similar in shape and includes one or
more of the same features described above.
[0019] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general
description and the following detailed description are exemplary
and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention
claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0020] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a first
representative embodiment of a container in accordance with the
present invention;
[0021] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the container of FIG. 1
in accordance with the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 3 is a schematic top view of the container of FIG. 1 in
accordance with the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 4 is a schematic bottom view of the container of FIG. 1
in accordance with the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 5 is schematic perspective view of further embodiment
of a container in accordance with the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of the container of FIG. 5
in accordance with the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 7 is a schematic top view of the container of FIG. 5 in
accordance with the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 8 is a schematic bottom view of the container of FIG. 5
in accordance with the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross section view of the container in
accordance of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross section view of a first
representative embodiment of a stack of nested containers in
accordance with the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 11A is a schematic perspective view of a further
representative embodiment of a container including at least one
anti-rotation interlock element in accordance with the present
invention;
[0031] FIG. 11B is a schematic perspective view of a further
representative embodiment of a container including at least one
anti-rotation interlock element in accordance with the present
invention;
[0032] FIG. 12A is a schematic side view of a further
representative embodiment of a container in accordance with the
present invention;
[0033] FIG. 12B is a schematic side view of a further
representative embodiment of a container in accordance with the
present invention;
[0034] FIG. 12C is a schematic side view of a further
representative embodiment of a container in accordance with the
present invention;
[0035] FIG. 12D is a schematic side view of a further
representative embodiment of a container in accordance with the
present invention;
[0036] FIG. 12E is a schematic side view of a further
representative embodiment of a container in accordance with the
present invention;
[0037] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of further
representative embodiment of a container in accordance with the
present invention;
[0038] FIG. 14 is a schematic bottom view of the container of FIG.
5 in accordance with the present invention;
[0039] FIG. 15 is a schematic top view of a container in accordance
with the present invention;
[0040] FIG. 16 is a schematic cross section view of the container
of FIG. 11A in accordance with the present invention; and
[0041] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view of a further
representative embodiment of a container in accordance with the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0042] Reference will now be made in detail to the present
preferred embodiments of the invention, an example of which is
illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
[0043] The present invention provides for a container having
enhanced wall strength and improved tactile engagement such that
the container is configured to be capable of being gripped from
substantially any direction. Such containers generally include but
are not limited to beverage cups and food containers.
[0044] In accordance with the invention, a container is provided
having a base defining a closed bottom, and a side wall extending
upwardly from the base. The sidewall includes an outer surface and
an inner surface. The closed bottom and the sidewall extending from
the base define a receptacle space. The sidewall defines a mouth
formed opposite the closed bottom. In accordance with the
invention, the container further includes at least one recess
having a recessed surface formed in the sidewall of the container.
The recessed surface has a texture to increase tactile engagement
therewith. In accordance with a particular aspect of the invention,
the textured surface is configured to increase tactile engagement
when grasped from substantially any direction.
[0045] For purpose of explanation and illustration, and not
limitation, an exemplary embodiment of the container in accordance
with the invention is shown in FIG. 1 and is designated by
reference character 100. Additional features, aspects and
embodiments of a container in accordance with the invention are
provided in FIGS. 2-17, as will be described below.
[0046] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, as embodied
herein and as depicted in FIG. 1, the container 100 has a base 112
defining a closed bottom 103, and a base wall 112a extending
upwardly from the base. In one preferred embodiment, the base wall
112a has a reverse taper. That is, the basewall 112a has an
upwardly and inwardly taper. A mouth 105 is formed opposite the
closed bottom 103. The base 112 and sidewall 114 define a
receptacle space capable of holding contents in the container
100.
[0047] The sidewall, embodied herein, is substantially cylindrical,
and more preferably frustoconical, in shape, as shown generally in
FIGS. 1 to 4. However, the sidewall can be configured to have a
variety of other shapes, including but not limited to rectangular,
hexagonal, or octagonal polyhedronal shapes. In one preferred
embodiment, as depicted in FIGS. 2 and 4, the sidewall 114 has an
upwardly and outwardly taper. Accordingly, the diameter of the
mouth 105 is greater than the diameter of the closed bottom 103.
Alternatively, however, the sidewall 114 can be configured such
that the diameter of the mouth 105 can be substantially the same as
closed bottom 103, if desired.
[0048] The dimensions of sidewall 114 depend on the particular
application. For example and not limitation, if the container is an
18 ounce beverage cup, sidewall 114 can have a height approximately
4.5 inches, and a radius at the base of approximately 1 inch and a
radius at the mouth of approximately 2 inches.
[0049] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention,
container 100 further includes a first portion 130 and a second
portion 132, as depicted in FIG. 2. First portion 130 includes at
least a first section of sidewall 114a disposed proximate base 112
and extending upwardly to second portion 132 of container 100. The
second portion 132 includes at least a second section of sidewall
114b disposed proximate mouth 105. In one preferred embodiment,
sidewall 114a of first portion 130 has a shape different than
sidewall 114b of second portion 132 of container 100.
[0050] For the purpose of illustration and not limitation, and as
depicted in FIG. 2, sidewall 114a can have a substantially
frustoconical shape, and sidewall 114b can have a substantially
bowl-like shape. In this manner, sidewall 114a is proximate base
112 and extends upwardly at a constant taper or angle to a location
162 proximate second portion 132 of container 100. The portion of
sidewall 114b has a radius that extends outwardly greater than the
radius achieved by sidewall 114a. The greater radius of sidewall
114a thus can define in part a wider mouth 105 as well as a
contoured surface ergonomically shaped for a user's hand.
Preferably, the first portion extends between about 50% to about
75% the height of the sidewall. Although the shape of sidewall 114a
and sidewall 114b are at least in part dictated by the radii of
base 112 and mouth 105, respectively, sidewall 114a and sidewall
114b can have a variety of alternative shapes. Further, the shape
of sidewall 114a and sidewall 114b can have substantially the same
shape and radius to provide a continuous tapered or non-tapered
container, if desired.
[0051] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the
side wall 114 has at least one recess 120 formed in the side wall.
The at least one recess is configured to increase crush resistance
of the side wall 114. The term "crush resistance" as used herein
refers to the resistance to inward deflection of the sidewall of
the container. In particular, the wall integrity of the container
100 is increased by the recess, thereby reducing the occurrences of
sidewall collapse when container 100 is grasped. In a preferred
embodiment, container 100 can have a plurality of recesses. For
example and not limitation, in one preferred embodiment, container
100 has four recesses.
[0052] The at least one recess includes a recessed surface 121
defined by a boundary edge 122, as depicted in FIG. 1. In one
preferred embodiment, the boundary edge 122 has a curvilinear
shape, and more preferably a continuously curved shape.
Particularly, and in accordance with a preferred aspect of the
invention, the boundary edge defines a parabola with an apex
located opposite the base. Hence, the at least one recess has a
bottom portion and a top portion. The width of the bottom portion
of the at least one recess is greater than the width at the top
portion of the at least one recess, such that the width decreases
with increasing height along the container 100, and the top portion
of the at least one recess forms an apex. In this manner, recess
120 also has a curvilinear shape. However, boundary edge 122 can be
configured to have alternative shapes, for example and not
limitation, polygonal shapes, as deemed suitable or desirable for
the intended purpose.
[0053] In further accordance with an additional aspect of the
invention, the boundary edge 122 defines an edge surface 123
extending between the recessed surface 121 and the sidewall 114. As
depicted herein, the edge surface is parabolic in shape and angled
relative to the recessed surface and the sidewall,
respectively.
[0054] For the purpose of illustration and not limitation, as
embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 2, the at least one recess 120
has a height generally perpendicular to closed bottom 103 that is
between about 50% to about 80% of a height of sidewall 114. In one
preferred embodiment, the at least one recess extends upwardly from
base 112 and is formed in the first portion 130 of sidewall 114.
Further preferred, at least a portion of boundary edge 122 such as
the edge surface can extend to at least the second portion 132 of
sidewall 114 of container 100, as depicted in FIG. 2.
[0055] As described further below, and in accordance with another
aspect of the invention, the base 112 can include a base wall 112a
extending upwardly from the closed bottom. The base wall 112a and
the sidewall 114 define an annular shoulder 146 therebetween. As
embodied herein, and as depicted in FIG. 2, the at least one recess
can extend from the annular shoulder 146 upwardly of sidewall 114.
Alternatively, the at least one recess 120 can extend from closed
bottom 103 of container 100 upwardly along a height of sidewall
114, if desired or if no annular shoulder is provided.
[0056] In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, the
recessed surface can define a generally partial cylindrical,
frustoconical, or even-bowl shaped surface configuration, as
desired. For example, and as depicted in FIG. 2, the sidewall can
extend upwardly at a first angle to define a frustoconical surface
configuration, and the recessed surface of the at least one recess
can extend upwardly at a second different angle to define a portion
of a second frustoconical surface configuration. By providing
different angles or configurations therebetween the at least one
recess can be further defined from the sidewall and the strength of
the sidewall can be further enhanced. In yet another alternative,
the sidewall and the at least one recess can extend upwardly at
substantially the same angle in a spaced relationship. In this
manner, the at least one recess can be further defined from the
sidewall by providing a step in the sidewall.
[0057] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the
recessed surface of the at least one recess is configured for
increased tactile engagement by a user. Particularly, and as
embodied herein, the recessed surface 121 is provided with a
texture 124 to increase tactile engagement. A variety of textures
can be incorporated, either individually or in combination. Such
textures include ribs, protrusions and indentations. In accordance
with a preferred aspect of the invention, the textured surface is
configured to increase tactile engagement when gripped from
virtually any direction. The textured surface therefore is
preferably defined or formed by a multidirectional surface pattern
of protrusions and/or indentations, such as but not limited to a
regular or irregular pattern of protrusions defining peaks and
valleys. In a preferred embodiment, the multidirectional surface
pattern includes about 10 to 900 protrusions or peaks per square
inch of the textured surface, and more preferably about 100 to 700
protrusions or peaks per square inch of the textured surface.
[0058] In accordance with the invention, the multidirectional
surface patterns can extend circumferentially, axially, or
diagonally across the recessed surface 121. In accordance with yet
another aspect of the invention, the recessed surface can include a
combination of ribs and a multidirectional surface pattern texture.
For example and not limitation, the recessed surface can include
ribs or ridges having a textured surface thereon or therebetween.
The ribs or ridges can be arranged in any suitable pattern, for
example and not limitation, the ribs can form a linear array or
alternatively form a circular pattern, with the multidirectional
surface pattern extending circumferentially axially or
diagonally.
[0059] The multidirectional surface pattern enhances tactile
engagement and improves grippability of the container. For the
purpose of illustration and not limitation, the protrusions provide
greater surface area for tactile engagement by a user, and the
indentations can provide a plurality of troughs to house and wick
away condensation. In this manner, the multidirectional surface
pattern increases tactile engagement by reducing slippage when a
container in accordance with the present invention has condensation
formation on its outer surface. Further, the greater surface area
and/or coefficient of friction provided by the multidirectional
surface pattern enhances tactile engagement and improves
grippability of a container having a dry surface. Additionally,
because the texture is a multidirectional pattern of, for example,
bumps, protrusions, dimples, and indentations, or grid-like cross
hatching, the container is configured for increased tactile
engagement regardless of the direction in which it is grasped. That
is, a discrete pattern of ribs or ridges generally provides tactile
engagement in a single direction. In this regard, the particular
direction or orientation of the ribs or ridges on the surface of
the container dictate the direction in which the container should
be grasped if improved grippability is to be attained. By contrast,
the use of a multidirectional pattern in accordance with the
present invention provides a surface on the container for increased
tactile engagement despite the orientation of the container when
grasped. Further, the texture in accordance with the present
invention can be provided with an increased coefficient of friction
when measured in a variety of directions, unlike a discrete pattern
that may only provide an increased coefficient of friction in a
limited number of directions. The greater coefficient of friction
of the multidirectional pattern of protrusions and/or indentations
enhances tactile engagement and grippability when container 100 is
grasped by a consumer.
[0060] A variety of multidirectional patterns are suitable for the
present invention. For example, the multidirectional pattern can be
provided in the form of a regular pattern of offset bumps or
intersecting raised cross hatching. Alternatively, an irregular
pattern of bumps or protrusions can be used, as preferred and
embodied herein.
[0061] Additionally, the texture in accordance with this aspect of
present invention can provide the advantage of eliminating at least
one step in the manufacturing process, so as to provide a more
efficient and less costly procedure. By providing the texture with
an irregular pattern, for example, imperfections otherwise visible
with a regular or symmetrical pattern are not relevant. That is,
each irregular pattern is unique, and not limited by symmetry. In
this regard, the manufacturing process to form a container 100 in
accordance with the present invention does not require an
additional quality control inspection to ensure that each container
produced on the assembly line includes a texture having an
identical pattern. In contrast, the manufacturing process to form
containers having a regular pattern, such as a pattern including
ribs or ridges, generally requires a step in the process for visual
inspection of each container to ensure that the regular pattern is
maintained for each container. Other advantages of providing a
container having a texture in accordance with the present invention
is that the texturing eliminates blemishes from the moldings, so as
to conceal heat-check marks, sink marks, and flow marks.
[0062] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the
texture is coextensive with the entire recessed surface. In this
manner, and unlike a discrete or isolated raised rib, an increased
tactile engagement can be accomplished anywhere within the boundary
of the recessed surface. Such an arrangement increases the
predictability in grasping the container with the recesses
provided. The container can further include additional suitable
surface treatments as known in the art.
[0063] A variety of techniques can be used for forming the texture
on the recessed surface in accordance with the invention. For the
purpose of illustration and not limitation, container 100 can be
provided having texture 124 on a surface of recess 120 by a
textured mold. In this manner, a metal mold, for example but not
limitation, an aluminum mold body can be configured with a
multidirectional, and preferably, an irregular pattern in
accordance with the present invention. For example, but not
limitation, the metal mold can be acid etched to define a texture
pattern. In this regard, an acid can be applied to a portion of the
metal mold to degrade the metal material in a particular or desired
pattern. Alternatively, a hobbing process can be used, in which a
master having a particular texture is applied with force to a metal
mold, such as for example an aluminum mold. The particular pattern
on the master displaces portions of the metal mold to create the
desired texture. The textured mold is then used to fabricate the
container in accordance with the present invention. In a preferred
embodiment, the mold is configured to provide an irregular pattern
of protrusions, similar to that depicted in FIGS. 1 and 5, to
define a depth of approximately 0.008'' and a draft angle of
approximately 12.degree. minimum. Such textured molds can be formed
and provided by, for example, a variety of texturing suppliers
known in the art.
[0064] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the
container includes an abutment portion configured to abut a second
container of similar shape received in a nested relationship within
the mouth of the container. The abutment portion 140 is generally
disposed proximate the base 112. In accordance with one aspect of
the invention, and as previously described, base 112 can include an
upstanding base wall 112a extending from the closed bottom 103. As
shown in FIG. 2, abutment portion 140 includes shoulder 146 defined
between upstanding base wall 112a and the sidewall 114. The
shoulder defines a ledge on the inner surface of the container, as
depicted in FIG. 3 and in the cross section in FIG. 9. The ledge
can be configured to abut the bottom 103 of an adjacent container
received within the first container so as to maintain a spaced
relationship between the two containers as depicted in FIG. 10.
Alternatively, the ledge can be configured to abut the shoulder of
an adjacent container as described with regard to the embodiments
of FIG. 5 below.
[0065] In a further aspect of the invention, the container 100
further includes at least one anti-rotation interlock element 142
to prevent relative rotation between adjacent containers received
in a nested relationship. The at least one anti-rotation interlock
element is configured to limit or inhibit rotational movement of a
container when engaged with a second container of similar shape. In
this regard, the at least one anti-rotation interlock element 142
is configured to interlock with another anti-rotation interlock
element disposed on an adjacent container of similar shape when
received in the mouth of the first container. The at least one
anti-rotation interlock element 142 can include at least one
depression 142' (as shown for example in FIGS. 11A, 11B, 12A and
12B), at least one protuberance 142'' (as shown for example in
FIGS. 12C, 12D, and 12E) formed in the sidewall 114 of the
container, or a combination of at least one depression 142' and at
least one protuberances 142'' as shown for example in FIG. 17.
[0066] Alternatively, the at least one recess 120 can be configured
to prevent relative rotation between adjacent containers received
in a nested relationship. In this regard, no additional
anti-rotation interlock elements are required. In one preferred
embodiment, the container includes four recesses configured to
interlock with an adjacent container and limit or independent
rotation of each container.
[0067] The at least one anti-rotation interlock element can be
disposed in the first portion 130 of the container or the second
portion 132 of the container, as depicted in FIGS. 12B and 12A,
respectively. Alternatively, as embodied in FIG. 11A, the at least
one anti-rotation interlock element can be disposed between the
first and second portions of the container such as to span the
first portion 130 and the second portion 132 of the container 100.
If desired, the at least one anti-rotation interlock element can be
disposed in the base 1 12 of the container 100, as depicted in FIG.
5. Particularly, the at least one anti-rotation interlock element
142 can be disposed proximate base 112 as illustrated in FIGS. 1
and 2, proximate annular lip 150 as illustrated in FIG. 11B, or
formed in the base wall 112a as illustrated in FIG. 5.
[0068] Additionally, the at least one anti-rotation interlock
element can be disposed such that it is axially aligned with at
least one recess, axially misaligned with at least one recess, or
can be disposed such the at least one anti-rotation interlock
element is adjacent a recess 120 as illustrated in FIGS. 11B, 12A,
and 11A, respectively.
[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one anti-rotation
interlock element includes a plurality of anti-rotation interlock
elements disposed about a periphery of the container, which can be
disposed at regular or irregular angular intervals about the
periphery of the container. In this regard, the plurality of
anti-rotation interlock elements can be disposed about the
periphery of the container such that at least a first anti-rotation
interlock element formed in the sidewall at a first location is
diametrically opposed to a second anti-rotation interlock element
formed in the sidewall at a second location, if desired. For
example, and as embodied herein as depicted in FIG. 3, the at least
one anti-rotation interlock element 142 includes a plurality of
depressions 142' formed in the side wall proximate the base 112.
Particularly, and as embodied herein, the at least one depression
is disposed in the sidewall above the annular shoulder. As shown in
FIG. 4, the plurality of depressions are disposed about the
periphery of the side wall 114. For further example and as
illustrated in FIG. 11A, the at least one depression 142' can be
formed in the sidewall between two adjacent recesses 120.
Alternatively, however, the at least one depression 142' can be
configured to be in axial alignment with at least one recess
120.
[0070] The at least one anti-rotation interlock element is
configured to define a protruding shelf. In particular, the at
least one depression 142' extends inwardly to define or form a
protruding shelf 144' extending from an inner surface of sidewall
114 into the receptacle of container 100, as best can be viewed
from FIG. 3 and a cross section in FIG. 9. The at least one
protuberance extends outwardly to define or form a protruding shelf
144'' extending from an outer surface of sidewall 114 to the
exterior of the container 100, as depicted in FIGS. 12C-E. In this
manner, the at least one protuberance is formed in sidewall 114 of
container 100 such that a cavity is formed in the inner surface of
the sidewall 114 and a corresponding protrusion is formed in the
outer surface of sidewall 114 thereby defining the protruding shelf
144'' as illustrated in FIG. 12C.
[0071] Further, the at least one recess 120 can be configured to
interlock with an adjacent container received in the mouth of a
first container and limit or inhibit relative rotation between the
containers. In this regard, the boundary edge 123 can be configured
to define or form a protruding shelf extending from the inner
surface of sidewall 114 into the receptacle of the container, as
illustrated in FIG. 15.
[0072] The protruding shelf 144', 144'' formed or defined by the at
least one anti-rotation interlock element (or by the recess as the
case may be) includes a depth 170 measured from a phantom extension
188 of the circumference of the container, as illustrated in FIG.
14. Phantom extension 188 extends along a horizontal cross section
of container 100. As illustrated in FIG. 16, the protruding shelf
144', 144'' defines a draft angle 184 with respect to vertical axis
186 of the container. Vertical axis 186 is a central axis which is
preferably perpendicular with the bottom 103 of container 100.
Draft angle 184 is measured from the axis 186 to the protruding
shelf 144' at the apex of the protruding shelf. In a preferred
embodiment, draft angle 184 is about 5.degree. to about 85.degree.
degrees, and preferably about 20.degree. to 30.degree.. As further
illustrated in FIG. 16, a second draft angle 180 is defined by the
protruding shelf 144' and the sidewall 114 of container 100. In a
preferred embodiment, the depth 170 as shown in FIG. 14 and the
draft angle 180 as shown in FIG. 16 vary across a height of the at
least one anti-rotation interlock element 142, as discussed below.
Further draft angle 182 is defined between central axis 186 and the
sidewall 114 of container 100, as illustrated in FIG. 16. In a
preferred embodiment, draft angle 182 is at least about 0.degree.,
up to about 30.degree. and most preferably about 5.degree. to
15.degree..
[0073] In particular, and as discussed above, the at least one
depression 142' as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 16(or at least one
recess) includes a protruding shelf having a varied depth 170 and
draft angle 180 which increases with the height of the depression.
Conversely, the at least one protuberance includes a protruding
shelf having a varied depth and draft angle which decreases with an
increase in height of the protuberance. In a preferred embodiment,
the at least one anti-rotation element, i.e., the at least one
depression or the at least one protuberance, includes a protruding
shelf having a depth that varies from approximately 0.045 inch to
approximately 0.082 inch, and draft angle 180 can vary from
approximately 4.degree. to approximately 90.degree.. In this
manner, the at least one depression can have a continuously
increasing depth along the height of the depression and the at
least one protuberance can have a continuously decreasing depth
along the height of the protuberance. Alternatively, the at least
one depression (or the at least one recess) or the at least one
protuberance can be configured to include a step to define an
adjacent area of increased or decreased depth, respectively. As
will be recognized by one skilled in the art, the depth 170 of the
anti-rotation interlock element and the draft angles 182 and 184
can be optimized for ease of manufacturing, e.g., removal of
container from mold, and for desired stacking or nesting height of
a stack of containers. In a preferred embodiment, the portion of
the depression that is closest to the central axis 186 is disposed
at the bottom of the depression.
[0074] The protruding shelf of the anti-rotation interlock element
142 is capable of engaging a corresponding anti-rotation interlock
element of a second container of similar shape. The engagement
between the anti-rotation interlock elements or recesses of
adjacent containers thereby maintains proper alignment for stacking
and prevents rotation therebetween. Further, the anti-rotation
interlock element can be configured to maintain an axial spaced
relationship between the sidewall 114 of one container and a
sidewall of a second container when in a stacked or nested
orientation, if desired.
[0075] In one embodiment, as schematically shown in FIG. 4, the
container includes at least one recess and at least one depression.
The at least one depression has a height less than the height of
the at least one recess. Although the dimensions of the at least
one depression can depend on the particular application. For
example and not limitation, for a beverage cup, the at least one
depression can have a height of approximately 0.4 inch and a depth
of approximately 0.045 inch to about 0.082 inch.
[0076] In one embodiment, the at least one depression is formed in
the base wall 112a of base 112 below the annular shoulder 146, as
depicted in FIG. 5. As depicted in FIG. 6, and can be best viewed
in FIG. 7, the at least one depression extends radially inward
beyond the ledge formed by the annular shoulder. In this
embodiment, the base 112 of the container is configured to have a
smaller diameter than the internal diameter provided by the ledge
formed by the annular shoulder. In this regard, the shoulder of an
adjacent container that is inserted into the mouth of a first
container will abut the ledge formed by the shoulder of the first
container. The depression 142 therefore defines a shelf for
engagement by a corresponding depression in an adjacent container
that is inserted into the mouth of the first container to establish
the desired anti-rotation interlock and/or spacing features of the
engagement portion. The ledge formed by the annular shoulder also
can be configured to maintain a spaced relationship between the
sidewall of the container and a sidewall of a second container when
in a stacked orientation. Alternatively, the container can be
configured without an annular shoulder.
[0077] The at least one anti-rotation interlock element in
accordance with the invention can be configured to have a variety
of shapes. For example and not limitation, as described above, the
at least one anti-rotation element can be configured to have a
curvilinear shape, as depicted in FIG.2 Additionally or
alternatively, the at least one anti-rotation interlock element can
be configured to have other suitable shapes such as polygonal or
polyhedronal shapes. For the purpose of illustration and not
limitation, the at least one anti-rotation interlock element can be
formed in suitable shapes such as a diamond, square, rectangular,
triangular or other polygonal shape. Further, the at least one
anti-rotation interlock element can have a linear shape or can be
configured to represent a logo and can include alphanumeric
characters or variations thereof, if desired.
[0078] Further, the at least one anti-rotation interlock element
can be configured to include a finger grip 172 for ergonomic
comfort for the user, as depicted in FIG. 13. In this regard, the
finger grip can be an indent ergonomically configured to receive a
finger, for example the thumb, of the user. Alternatively, the
finger grip can be a raised surface. If desired, the finger grip
includes a textured surface for increased grippability.
[0079] Further, the base 112 can include indentation 116, which can
best be seen in FIG. 4, formed within the base wall 112a along a
periphery of the closed bottom 103. In one embodiment, indentation
116 is axially aligned with a corresponding depression 142,
although alternative arrangements can be provided.
[0080] Further in accordance with the invention, the mouth 105 of
container 100 includes an annular lip 150. In a preferred
embodiment, the lip has a substantially planar top surface 152, and
a flange 154 angle laterally from the substantially planar top
surface 152, as depicted in FIG. 1. The flange 154 is folded at
least partially under the substantially planar top surface 152 such
that the flange is configured at an angle of approximately
25.degree. and greater, for example and not limitation 45.degree.,
relative to the substantially planar top surface 152. The
configuration of the annular lip therefore can have a substantially
triangular configuration. In one preferred embodiment, the unique
annular lip configuration can be formed by known lip forming
techniques. In this manner, a lip forming machine is used to form a
lip on the rim of the thermoformed containers, such as disposable
cups, food packages, and the like. A stack of nested containers is
fed into a conveyor, which directs the containers into a space
between a set of rotating feed rollers. The feed rollers engage the
rim of the containers and rotate the stack of nested containers.
The containers are thereby advanced into the interior of a heating
oven having a heating source, such as for example a calrod. The
stack of nested containers are heated in the oven, and then are
directed to a set of rotating forming screws. The forming screws
engage the heated rims of the containers and progressively fold a
portion of the rim downward to create the triangular lip
configuration on the rim of each container. However, the annular
lip can also have other configurations, such as but not limited to
a rounded, rectangular, or square configuration, or can otherwise
be folded or rolled in a conventional manner.
[0081] The dimensions of the annular lip, including the
substantially planar top surface 152, and flange 154, as well as
the particular angle at which the flange is rolled will depend upon
the intended application of the container. For example and not
limitation, for a beverage container, such as a cup, the planar top
surface has a length of approximately 0.15 inch, the flange 152 has
a length of approximately 0.10 inch, and the flange is preferably
at an angle of approximately 28.degree. in relation to the planar
top surface 152.
[0082] As shown in FIG. 2, sidewall 114 can be configured to
include at least one ridge 160 disposed circumferentially about a
surface of the sidewall, if desired. For example and not
limitation, ridge 160 is disposed proximate to annular lip 150.
Alternatively, however, ridge 160 can be disposed at other
locations, if desired. Additionally, a plurality of ridges can be
disposed circumferentially about the sidewall 114 of container
100.
[0083] Particularly, an 18 oz. disposable beverage container in
accordance with the present invention, and having a configuration
similar to that of FIGS. 1 to 4, was formed with the following
relevant dimensions: height 4.75 in.; base diameter 2.33 in.; mouth
diameter 4.00 in.; number of recesses 4; recess height including
boundary edge 3.10 in.; and a formed lip including a top planar
surface having a length of 0.15 in., a flange having a length of
0.15 in., the flange forming an angle of 28.degree. relative to the
top planar surface.
[0084] As mentioned above, the container in accordance with the
present invention has improved sidewall crush resistance or
improved wall strength integrity, as well as improved lip strength.
To demonstrate the improvement in strength of a container in
accordance with the present invention a standard comparison
deflection test was performed on the sidewall and the lip of a
container in accordance with the present invention and of a
commercially available container of generally similar size. Each
container sample tested was an 18 oz. beverage cup. The results of
the comparative deflection test illustrated that the container in
accordance with the present invention has about an 8% increase in
sidewall strength as compared to the standard commercially
available container. The results also illustrated that the
container in accordance with the present invention has about a 31%
increase in lip strength as compared to the standard commercially
available container. Thus, the results of the comparative
deflection analysis illustrated the improvement in structural
integrity of both the sidewall and the lip achieved by the
container in accordance with the present invention.
[0085] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a stack
of nestable containers 110 is provided. The stack of nestable
containers includes a first container 100 and an adjacent container
101 received within the first container. Each stackable container
has a substantially similar shape as described above.
[0086] For the purpose of illustration and not limitation, and as
depicted in FIG. 10, in a preferred embodiment, a second container
100' is received within the mouth 105 of the first container 100
such that the body of the second container extends downwardly
through the mouth and into the receptacle of the first container.
As discussed above, and as depicted in FIG. 10, the annular
shoulder 146 of the first container 100 provides a ledge along an
inner surface of the first container, such that when the second
container 100' is disposed within the mouth 105 of the first
container and extends downwardly through its receptacle, the bottom
of the second container 100' abut the ledge on the inner surface of
the first container 100 to maintain a defined spacing therebetween.
Alternatively, and as previously noted with regard to the
embodiment of FIG. 5, the bottom can be dimensioned so as to be
smaller than the cross dimension of the ledge. In this manner, the
bottom of the second container will be disposed within the volume
defined by the upstanding base wall of the first container, and the
shoulder of the second container will abut the ledge of the first
container.
[0087] In accordance with one preferred embodiment, as depicted in
FIG. 10, the ridge 160 disposed circumferentially about the surface
of the sidewall 114 of the first container 100 engages at least a
portion of the annular lip 150 of the adjacent container 101 when
in a stacked orientation.
[0088] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the
engaging portion 140 of the first container includes at least one
depression to engage a corresponding engaging portion of the second
container. In one embodiment, the at least one depression 142 has a
substantially constant depth and provides a protruding shelf 144
that extends along an inner surface of the first container 100. In
this manner, the protruding shelf 144 provided by the at least one
depression 142 engages an outer surface of the at least one
depression 142 of the second container 100'. The at least one
depression 142 in conjunction with the protruding shelf 144 assist
in providing proper alignment of the nested first and second
containers. Further, the at least one depression and protruding
shelf also inhibit or limit independent rotation movement of each
container, if needed. The at least one anti-rotation feature
provides benefits during manufacturing, for example, during lip
forming, such that the stack of nested container maintain proper
alignment Further, the at least one depression is configured to
maintain a spaced relationship between the sidewall of the first
container and the sidewall of the second container. The spacing and
lack of rotation movement prevents extensive wear on the
containers.
[0089] Any of a variety of suitable polymers can be used for
container of the present invention, including but not limited to
polystyrenes and copolymers thereof, propylene polymers, such as,
for example polypropylene homopolymers, polypropylene random
copolymers, or polypropylene impact copolymers, ethylene polymers,
such as, for example, high density polyethylene, medium density
polyethylene, or low density polyethylene, polybutenes and
copolymers thereof, polyesters, and mixtures or copolymers
thereof.
[0090] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the container
material can include at least one colorant. The colorant can be any
suitable material capable of providing a vivid color, including,
but not limited to any color of the spectrum, as well as white and
black, to the material of the container. The colorants that can be
used in the present invention include, but are not limited to,
pigments or dyes. The colorants may be used in a variety of modes,
including but not limited to, dry color, conventional color
concentrates, liquid color and precolored resin. The colorant is
provided in a sufficient concentration to provide the desired
color.
[0091] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made in the method and system
of the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope
of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention
includes modifications and variations that are within the scope of
the appended claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *