U.S. patent application number 12/019105 was filed with the patent office on 2008-05-22 for container for liquids, including sealing mechanisms.
Invention is credited to Simon Buckley, Douglas M. McLelland, David J. Pritchett.
Application Number | 20080116203 12/019105 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 30772530 |
Filed Date | 2008-05-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080116203 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McLelland; Douglas M. ; et
al. |
May 22, 2008 |
CONTAINER FOR LIQUIDS, INCLUDING SEALING MECHANISMS
Abstract
A container for storage and dispensing of paint includes a
unitary, molded plastic container body defining an interior volume
and including an annular container opening through which the
contents are dispensed. Included as part of the paint container is
a dispensing spout which is positioned within the container opening
and includes a pouring lip. The dispensing spout includes a
threaded portion which receives a removable closing cap. The cap is
constructed and arranged to close the container opening. A
transporting handle is provided and is attached directly to the
container body.
Inventors: |
McLelland; Douglas M.; (Fort
Wayne, IN) ; Buckley; Simon; (Fort Wayne, IN)
; Pritchett; David J.; (Fort Wayne, IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
James M. Durlacher, Esquire;Woodard, Ernhardt, Naughton, Moriarty & McNett
LLP
Bank One Center/Tower
111 Monument Circle, Suite 3700
Indianapolis
IN
46204-5137
US
|
Family ID: |
30772530 |
Appl. No.: |
12/019105 |
Filed: |
January 24, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10287915 |
Nov 5, 2002 |
7347343 |
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12019105 |
Jan 24, 2008 |
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10199590 |
Jul 19, 2002 |
7040509 |
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10287915 |
Nov 5, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/212.5 ;
220/288; 222/566 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 2543/00296
20130101; B65D 25/32 20130101; B65D 2543/00972 20130101; B65D
25/2897 20130101; B65D 43/0231 20130101; B65D 2543/00851 20130101;
B44D 3/12 20130101; B65D 2543/00092 20130101; B65D 2543/00527
20130101; B65D 25/205 20130101; B65D 47/122 20130101; B65D
2543/00564 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/212.5 ;
220/288; 222/566 |
International
Class: |
B65D 25/00 20060101
B65D025/00; B65D 41/04 20060101 B65D041/04; B65D 25/40 20060101
B65D025/40 |
Claims
1. A container assembly for storage and dispensing of a fluid
substance, said container assembly comprising: a container body
defining an interior volume and including a threaded wall defining
an annular container opening, said threaded wall having an inner
surface; a spout that is inserted into said annular container
opening, said spout including a tapered, annular sidewall that is
constructed and arranged with a first portion having an outer
peripheral size that fits against said inner surface with an
interference fit for sealing against said annular container opening
and a second portion that is externally threaded, said spout
further including a brush receptacle and said annular sidewall
forming a portion of said brush receptacle, the spout and container
body combination forming a dispensing container; and a removable
cap constructed and arranged to close said dispensing container by
threaded engagement to said second portion.
2. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein said container body is
injection molded.
3. The container assembly of claim 1 which further includes a
gripping island as part of said removable cap.
4. The container assembly of claim 3 wherein said gripping island
includes a plurality of finger recesses.
5. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein said spout including a
pouring lip that is radially opposite to said brush receptacle.
6. The container assembly of claim 1 wherein the spout further
includes an internally threaded wall radially outwardly of said
tapered, annular sidewall, said internally threaded wall being
constructed and arranged for connection to said threaded wall of
said container body.
7. A container assembly for storage and dispensing of a fluid
substance, said container assembly comprising: a container body
defining an interior volume and including a threaded wall defining
an annular container opening, said threaded wall having an inner
surface; a spout that is inserted into said annular container
opening, said spout including a tapered, annular sidewall that is
constructed and arranged with an outer peripheral size that fits
against said inner surface for sealing against said annular
container opening, said spout further including an
internally-threaded wall radially outwardly of said tapered,
annular sidewall constructed and arranged for connection to said
threaded wall of said container body, the spout and container body
combination forming a dispensing container, said spout including a
brush receptacle and radially opposite thereto a pouring lip, said
annular sidewall forming a portion of said brush receptacle; and a
removable cap constructed and arranged to close said dispensing
container.
8. The container assembly of claim 7 which further includes a
gripping island as part of said removable cap.
9. The container assembly of claim 7 wherein said gripping island
includes a plurality of finger recesses.
10. A container for storage and dispensing of a fluid substance,
said container comprising: a container body defining an interior
volume and an annular container opening; a spout member having an
annular sidewall, said spout member being inserted into said
annular container opening, said annular sidewall having an inner
surface, a portion of said inner surface including a pouring
recess; and a removable cap constructed and arranged to close said
dispensing opening, said removable cap including an annular sealing
lip constructed and arranged for a leak-free fit against said inner
surface, wherein said spout member further includes a brush
receptacle, said annular sidewall forming a portion of said brush
receptacle.
11. The container of claim 10 wherein said container body is
injection molded.
12. The container of claim 10 wherein said brush receptacle defines
a drain-back aperture.
13. The container of claim 12 which further includes a gripping
island as part of said removable cap.
14. The container of claim 13 wherein said gripping island includes
a plurality of finger recesses.
15. A unitary spout for a container assembly for storage and
dispensing of a fluid substance, said spout comprising: a sidewall
constructed and arranged with a first threaded portion for threaded
connection to a container, a second threaded portion for threaded
receipt of a closing cap, and a pouring lip; and a brush
receptacle, wherein said sidewall forming a portion of said brush
receptacle.
16. The unitary spout of claim 15 wherein said brush receptacle
includes a bottom wall, said bottom wall defining at least one
aperture for fluid drain-back.
Description
REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation application of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/287,915, filed Nov. 4, 2002,
entitled CONTAINER FOR LIQUIDS, INCLUDING SEALING MECHANISMS, which
is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/199,590, filed Jul. 19, 2002 by McLelland, et al., now
U.S. Pat. No. 7,040,509.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates in general to portable,
hand-held, liquid-storage containers which may be used to store
(and dispense) various liquid substances such as paint, household
cleaners, laundry products, and beverages, to name a few.
[0003] More specifically, the present invention relates to
portable, hand-held, liquid-storage containers which include a
pouring (dispensing) spout and one or more sealing mechanisms or
structures positioned at the interface between two members or
portions of the container. The sealing mechanisms may either be
shaped portions of the members defining the interface to be sealed
or separate components added to the members or a combination of
both.
[0004] While the use of a pouring spout as part of a liquid-storage
container is now commonly used for liquid laundry detergents and
fabric softeners, the present invention is directed to how this
broad concept can be adapted to other liquid-product containers,
specifically containers for paint. While the preferred embodiment
of the present invention is described in the context of a molded
plastic, one-gallon paint container, the present invention is not
size restrictive. In one embodiment of the present invention, the
paint container is a shaped and contoured structure which is
fabricated by a blow-molding process. In another embodiment of the
present invention, the paint container retains a generally
cylindrical form which is fabricated by an injection-molding
process.
[0005] Currently used metal paint cans include a generally
cylindrical can body with a circular upper opening configured with
a generally U-shaped peripheral channel which captures the outer
peripheral lip or protrusion of a circular lid. The lid-to-can
interface is often referred to as having a sealing system called a
"triple-tight seal". A wire-like metal handle is provided and
hinged at opposite ends to the paint can body. Anyone who has done
any painting using such a paint can is no doubt familiar with the
many problems in the sense of wasted and splattered paint. The
awkwardness of pouring paint from the can into a tray for a roller
is also seen as a drawback with this particular design. Dipping a
paint brush into the can and then using the can edge as a wiping
edge also creates a mess and causes paint to be deposited in the
annular U-shaped channel. As paint collects in this peripheral
channel, resealing the lid becomes particularly messy as the
captured paint is pushed out and may either splatter or run down
the side of the paint can. Aside from the mess, the current metal
paint can design results in wasted paint, not only from what drips,
splatters, or runs down the side of the can, but also from not
being able to tightly reseal the lid onto the can body. If the lid
is not tightly resealed on the can body, the paint can dry out or
skin over, causing obvious problems of continued use and often
resulting in the leftover portion of paint being discarded. Another
consideration with the use of metal paint cans is the level or
extent of damage returns. Cans which become rusted or dented are
unlikely to be sold by the store. If the paint cans are supplied to
the store in this condition, they are typically returned to the
supplier. On an annual basis, it is estimated that such returns
amount to approximately seven percent (7%) of the total number of
cans supplied to the stores. Plastic paint cans/containers do not
have rusting and/or denting problems.
[0006] By designing a paint container with a screw-on lid and a
pouring spout with an excess paint drain-back feature, a number of
the disadvantages with metal paint cans and the use of such cans
can be eliminated. Even if only molding the conventional paint can
out of plastic and adding a pouring spout or lip, there are
advantageous improvements over current metal paint can designs.
While plastic containers with pouring spouts are now in use for
laundry products, there are a number of reasons why these styles of
containers are not suitable for paint and why significant design
changes must be invented to be able to create a suitable paint
container with these structural features. For example, the size of
the opening in the container body needs to be expanded for a paint
container as compared to a liquid laundry detergent and, as such,
the spout design must change. As this occurs, the sealing
mechanisms or structures have to be considered. If there is a
desire to have a wiping edge for the paint brush as part of the
molded paint container, a factor which is not a consideration with
a liquid laundry detergent, this has to be factored into the new
(plastic) design. The attempt to incorporate this type of wiping
edge as part of the pouring spout presents additional design
challenges. A paint drain-back feature may also be considered an
important part of any new and improved paint container. Any paint
which is wiped off of the brush or drips from the brush and any
paint which might run down the lip of the pouring spout would
preferably have a path to reenter the body of the paint
container.
[0007] A further consideration for a suitable paint container is
the overall shape and balance, not only for handling and
transporting convenience, including the possibility of stacking,
but also for the practical consideration of being able to tint to a
particular color by adding pigment to a base color, such as white.
This tinting requires access to the interior of the paint container
body and also requires some type of vibratory shaking of the paint
container. This in turn focuses some attention on the design in
terms of the size and shape of the container as well as the design
of the sealing mechanisms which are employed as part of the paint
container at those interfaces where leakage could conceivably
occur.
[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the paint
container is blow-molded and presents a more unique contoured
shape. While this design has various advantages as will be
explained herein, there are differences between a blow-molded
container and an injection-molded container. In another embodiment
of the present invention, an injection-molded paint container is
provided which in part simulates the general shape and style of a
(current) metal paint can. One important improvement is the
addition of a pouring spout, something which is not a part of the
design of current metal paint cans.
[0009] In the design of liquid-storage containers, a first location
to incorporate some type of sealing mechanism or structure is at
the interface between the body of the container and the closing
lid. Whether the lid snaps into or onto or in some fashion over the
upper opening of the container neck portion, or whether the lid
threads into or onto the neck, some type of sealing mechanism or
gasket would likely improve the sealed integrity of that interface.
Depending on the size and shape of the container and depending on
the material to be placed in the container, the choice for the
preferred style of sealing mechanism may change. Another factor in
the selection or design of the preferred sealing mechanism or
structure is the frequency of opening and closing the
container.
[0010] When the liquid-storage container includes a pouring spout,
additional sealing considerations come into play. How the spout is
positioned in the container body will dictate to some extent what
sealing mechanisms may be required and what type of sealing
mechanisms or structures would be possible to employ and which
types would be preferred.
[0011] The present invention focuses on various sealing mechanisms
which offer a variety of design options for a variety of
applications and interfaces. These various sealing mechanisms of
the present invention have a general applicability for sealing
between two (or more) members. However, these sealing mechanism are
also described in the context of molded plastic paint containers
with a screw-on lid and a pouring spout. As described, the sealing
mechanisms of the present invention may be configured using shaped
portions of the members which define the interface to be sealed, or
may be provided by the use of separate sealing components, or may
be a combination of both.
[0012] The present invention provides an improvement to the current
designs in this field of art in a novel an unobvious manner.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0013] A container for storage and dispensing of a fluid substance
such as paint according to one embodiment of the present invention
includes a container body defining an interior volume and including
an annular neck portion which defines a container opening, a
dispensing spout positioned in the annular neck portion, the
dispensing spout secured to the container body and being
constructed and arranged for pouring out the fluid substance from
the interior volume, a removable cap constructed and arranged to
close the container opening by threaded engagement with the
dispensing spout and a transporting handle attached to the
container body.
[0014] One object of the present invention is to provide an
improved container for storage and dispensing of a fluid
substance.
[0015] Related objects and advantages of the present invention will
be apparent from the following description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] FIG. 1 is a right side elevational view of a paint container
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 2 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 1 paint
container.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the FIG. 1 paint container.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a left side elevational view, in full section, of
the FIG. 1 paint container as viewed along line 4-4 in FIG. 2.
[0020] FIG. 5 is a partial, enlarged detail view, in full section,
of the spout connection of the FIG. 1 paint container.
[0021] FIG. 6 is a right side elevational view of a paint container
according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 7 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 6 paint
container.
[0023] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the FIG. 6 paint container.
[0024] FIG. 9 is right side elevational view of a paint container
according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 10 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 9 paint
container.
[0026] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the FIG. 9 paint
container.
[0027] FIG. 12 is a left side elevational view, in full section, of
the FIG. 9 paint container as viewed along line 12-12 in FIG.
10.
[0028] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the spout of the FIG. 1 and
FIG. 6 paint containers.
[0029] FIG. 14 is a partial, front elevational view of a pivot post
comprising one portion of the FIG. 13 spout.
[0030] FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view of the handle of the
FIG. 1 and FIG. 6 paint containers.
[0031] FIG. 16 is a partial, side elevational view, in full
section, of a sealing mechanism for use with a container according
to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 17 is a partial, side elevational view, in full
section, of a sealing mechanism for use with a container according
to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 18 is a partial, side elevational view, in full
section, of a sealing mechanism for use with a container according
to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 19 is a partial, side elevational view, in full
section, of a sealing mechanism for use with a container according
to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 20 is a partial, side elevational view, in full
section, of a sealing mechanism for use with a container according
to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 21 is a partial, side elevational view, in full
section, of a sealing mechanism for use with a container according
to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 22 is a partial, side elevational view, in full
section, of a sealing mechanism for use with a container according
to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 23 is a partial, side elevational view, in full
section, of a sealing mechanism for use with a container according
to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 24 is a partial, side elevational view, in full
section, of a sealing mechanism for use with a container according
to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 25 is a partial, side elevational view, in full
section, of a sealing mechanism for use with a container according
to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 26 is a front elevational view of a paint container
according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of the FIG. 26 paint
container.
[0043] FIG. 28 is a top plan view of the FIG. 26 paint
container.
[0044] FIG. 29 is front elevational view, in full section, of the
FIG. 26 paint container, as viewed along line 29-29 in FIG. 27.
[0045] FIG. 30 is an exploded view of the FIG. 26 paint
container.
[0046] FIG. 31A is a partial, enlarged detail, in full section, of
the connections between the various components which comprise the
FIG. 26 paint container.
[0047] FIG. 31B is a partial, enlarged detail, in full section, of
the closing lid of the FIG. 26 paint container.
[0048] FIG. 32A is a perspective view of a dispensing spout
comprising one component of the FIG. 26 paint container.
[0049] FIG. 32B is a partial, enlarged detail, in full section, of
the FIG. 32A dispensing spout.
[0050] FIG. 33A is a perspective view of a lift handle comprising
one component of the FIG. 26 paint container.
[0051] FIG. 33B is a side elevational view of the FIG. 33A lift
handle.
[0052] FIG. 34 is a front elevational view of a paint container
according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0053] FIG. 35 is a side elevational view of the FIG. 34 paint
container.
[0054] FIG. 36 is a top plan view of the FIG. 34 paint
container.
[0055] FIG. 37 is front elevational view, in full section, of the
FIG. 34 paint container, as viewed along line 37-37 in FIG. 35.
[0056] FIG. 38 is an exploded view of the FIG. 34 paint
container.
[0057] FIG. 39 is a partial, enlarged detail, in full section, of
the connections between the various components which comprise the
FIG. 34 paint container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0058] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the
embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will
be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood
that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby
intended, such alterations and further modifications in the
illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles
of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would
normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention
relates.
[0059] The present invention relates to the design and construction
of a molded plastic paint container with a pouring spout and is
described in combination with various sealing mechanisms.
[0060] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, there is illustrated a
molded plastic paint container 20 according to one embodiment of
the present invention. Paint container 20 includes a blow-molded
contoured body 21, pouring spout 22, and threaded lid or cap 23. A
hinged, bail-like handle 24 is attached to the pouring spout 22. In
the illustrated embodiment, the spout 22 includes a lower threaded
portion 25 which threads onto the neck portion 26 of body 21 and an
upper threaded portion 27 to which the cap 23 is threaded.
[0061] FIGS. 6, 7, and 8 illustrate a second configuration for the
blow-molded contoured body 30 of paint container 31 and a second
configuration for the cooperating cap 32. The spout and handle
which are used in container 31 are identical to spout 22 and handle
24. The only difference between these first and second paint
container designs resides in the shape and contouring of the
container body and in the shape and contouring of the cooperating
cap.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 9, 10, 11, and 12, a third configuration
for the blow-molded contoured body 35 of paint container 36 is
illustrated. Included is a third configuration for the cooperating
cap, though in many respects cap 37 is similar to cap 32. The spout
22' which is used in container 36 is substantially identical to
spout 22. However, due to the molded-in handle 35a as part of the
contoured body 35, a separate handle 24, as might be hinged to the
spout 22, is not included. Accordingly, the spout of the FIGS. 9-12
embodiment has been referenced as 22' to reflect the design change
to omit the two pivot posts for handle 24. Other differences
between the first, second and third paint container designs reside
in the shape and contouring of the container body and the shape and
contouring of the cooperating cap. Additionally, the third paint
container design omits the hinged, bail-like handle 24 from spout
22' in exchange for the molded-in handle 35a. Additional details of
spout 22 (and in part spout 22') are illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14
and these drawings should be referred to for a more complete
understanding of the paint container 20 of FIGS. 1-5. These spout
details are also part of paint containers 31 and 36. Similarly,
additional details of the handle 24 and its connection to the pivot
posts of spout 22 are illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15 and these
drawings should be referred to for a more complete understanding of
the paint container 20 of FIGS. 1-5. These handle details are also
part of paint container 31.
[0063] With continued reference to FIGS. 1-5, paint container 20 is
a molded plastic container with a blow-molded contoured body 21
sized to hold approximately, but at least, one gallon of paint
within the defined interior volume. The contoured body 21 includes
a base 40, sidewall 41, and a series of external threads 42 on neck
portion 26 which defines a circular opening 43. The circular
opening 43 provides the means to initially fill the container 20
with paint. Thereafter, the spout 22, handle 24, and cap 23 are
attached to securely close the circular opening 43 and thus
securely close paint container 20. It is envisioned that the
internally-threaded cap 23, via threaded outer wall 23a, will be
threaded onto the upper threaded portion 27 of the spout and that
the handle 24 will be attached to the spout, by means of two pivot
posts 44, before threading the spout to the neck portion 26 by way
of threads 42. In this way the cap, spout, and handle can be
preassembled as a cap subassembly and attached as a single
subassembly unit directly to the contoured body 21 as the lower
threaded portion 25 of the spout 22 threads onto the neck portion
26 of the contoured body 21.
[0064] If the initial fill of paint is of the final color or tint
which is desired, such that it is ready to be used as initially
packaged, then the preassembled subassembly of the cap 23, spout
22, and handle 24, would not need to be removed from the contoured
body 21 prior to first use. The purchaser/end user would then
merely unscrew the cap 23 in order to gain access to the paint.
However, if the initial fill of paint is a base color or tint which
is going to be further colored or tinted by the addition of other
pigment, then the store personnel would typically remove the
preassembled subassembly of the cap 23, spout 22, and handle 24 in
order to gain access to the paint in the body 21 in order to add
the required pigment to create the selected color. After adding the
pigment, the container body 21 is closed by (re)attaching the spout
22 to the neck portion 26, while the cap and handle remain
assembled to the spout. The paint mixture is then blended by a
vibratory shaking process. One advantage of attaching the
transporting handle 24 directly to an exterior wall surface of the
spout is to simplify the container body 21 design. The handle 24 in
this location does not interfere with the equipment for the
vibratory shaking process. Also, by raising the handle pivot
location to an upper location as compared to the body of the
container, the balance of the container when dispensing paint is
improved.
[0065] In describing the interior volume of contoured body 21 as
being designed to hold at least one gallon of paint, two important
points need to be made. First, the details of the present invention
are not size restrictive nor size limited. Whether considering the
inventive features relating to the container structure or the
inventive features relating to the various sealing mechanisms, the
present invention details can be incorporated into virtually any
size of container which can be used for virtually any type of
product, most likely a liquid product. A one-gallon paint container
was selected as the preferred embodiment to be used to describe the
container structure and to describe the various sealing mechanisms
disclosed herein and comprising part of the present invention. In
this context, the purchaser/end user expects to receive at least
one gallon of paint since that is how the package is marked and
that is what is advertised. Secondly, some clearance space (air
volume) is required inside of the closed container after it is
initially filled with paint so that there will be some space left
in order to permit movement of the paint during any vibratory
mixing. Further, space needs to be provided so that if pigment is
added, there is space to do so while still having some clearance
space left so that the vibratory mixing can be performed in order
to blend the added pigment into the base paint color.
[0066] Continuing with FIGS. 1-5, contoured body 21 includes three
recessed portions 46a, 46b, and 47. The size, shape, and location
of these three recessed portions are important in view of their
described functions. Portions 46a and 46b are best illustrated in
FIG. 2 and are seen as being virtually identical to each other and
symmetrically positioned on opposite sides of contoured body
centerline 48. The depth of each recessed portion 46a and 46b is
approximately 1/2 inch at its deepest location, noting that there
is a smooth and gradual transition by means of the rounded
peripheral edges 49a and 49b which connect the interior of portions
46a and 46b, respectively, to the outer surface of sidewall 41.
[0067] The area of each recessed portion 46a and 46b, as well as
the depth of each portion, is adequate for the fingers on one side
and the thumb on the other side of the end user to be placed on
opposite sides of land portion 50 for gripping of the contoured
body via land portion 50, to assist in pouring paint from the body
21 by way of spout 22. The symmetrical design and the virtually
identical configuration of portions 46a and 46b allows the paint
container to be used in an equally convenient manner by both
right-handed and left-handed end users.
[0068] It should also be noted that centerline 48 is the lateral
centerline for handle 24 and for spout 22, especially the pouring
lip portion of spout 22 which will be described in greater detail
later. In this way, the container 20 can be lifted by the handle 24
by one hand and the body gripped by the other hand for tilting the
body, with the cap 23 removed, in order to pour out paint by way of
the pouring spout. Since the handle is attached to the spout as
opposed to the container body, it moves the handle support line
location closer to the pouring location and this yields better
control and balance. If done correctly, the pouring paint is not
able to contact any part of the handle and this lessens any
spillage or mess. Further, there is an ergonomic balance and
convenience to this method of use and container manipulation in
view of the way the hands of the end user are positioned relative
to the container body (land portion 50) and relative to the handle
24. This enables a more controlled dispensing of the paint, not
only due to the addition of the pouring spout, but also due to the
design of the handle, the design of the contoured body, and the
centerline positioning of these structural features. The recessed
portions 46a and 46b provide the necessary clearance for the hand
of the end user to be able to grip around land portion 50 as part
of the overall handling and manipulation of the container 20.
[0069] Recessed portion 47 is continuous from one side of contoured
body 21 to a corresponding location on the opposite side such that
portion 47 is substantially symmetrical, in size, shape and
location, relative to centerline 48 and effectively located
opposite to portions 46a and 46b. As will be noted from the edge
views, the depth of portion 47 is relatively shallow, approximately
1/16 inch in depth, and is generally uniform throughout and is
separated from the outer surface of sidewall 41 by a substantially
flat, lateral peripheral edge 53 which surrounds and helps to
define recessed portion 47. This recessed portion 47 is used to
receive a product label. Whether the product label is applied by
adhesive or some other technique, possibly a molded-in-place design
to be described later, the label thickness is such that it fits
within recessed portion 47 below the outer surface of sidewall 41.
In this way, by actually recessing the label in portion 47, the
outer peripheral edge 53 which surrounds the label protects and
guards the peripheral edge of the label such that the label edge
will not be caught or contacted in such a way that the label might
either tear or begin to peel off from the container.
[0070] The base 40 is contoured with a recessed circular portion 55
which is sized, shaped, and positioned so as to be compatible with
the size, shape and position of raised portion 56 of cap 23. In
this way, it is possible to safely stack one paint container 20 on
top of another, similarly styled paint container 20. Although the
raised portion 56 is uniquely contoured for easier gripping of cap
23, the outer peripheral shape is part cylindrical and is capable
of being inserted into a cylindrical recess, so long as the
cylindrical recess is slightly larger and slightly deeper. By
sizing the recessed circular portion 55 in this manner, the outer
portion 57 of base 40 that surrounds recessed circular portion 55
then actually rests on the radial collar 58 of cap 23 so as to give
added support to the weight of the upper paint container. The stack
of two or more paint containers 20 thus utilizes the interfit of
portion 56 into portion 55 to help steady and stabilize the stacked
combination.
[0071] The contoured body 21 extends above the recessed portions
46a, 46b, and 47 into a curved portion 61 extending around the
periphery of the upper part of the contoured body 21. The curved
portion 61 then extends inwardly in a radial direction, at which
point it joins neck portion 26. The neck portion 26 is annular with
a substantially cylindrical inner surface 62, terminating at top
edge 63 which is substantially flat but which includes a slight
unevenness and slight surface irregularities due to the molding
process. Top edge 63 defines circular opening 43. The exterior of
the neck portion 26 is externally threaded with threads 42. With
added reference to FIG. 3, the overall outer shape of body 21
includes four sides for sidewall 41 and the rounded "corners"
64a-64d between adjacent sides 65a-65d. This top plan view also
helps to illustrate the location of land portion 50 as well as the
contoured and tapered sides of the land portion 50 which helps
(ergonomically) with the comfort of the grip by the hand of the
user.
[0072] With continued reference to FIG. 3, it will be seen that the
interior region of the top surface of cap 23 is recessed with an
annular channel 68 which surrounds a gripping island 69 which is
shaped with a series of three finger recesses 70 used to receive
the first three fingers of the end user's hand for opening and
closing the paint container by unscrewing (opening) the cap and by
screwing the cap back in place in order to close the container.
Since container 20 is designed for paint and since this suggests
the value of a large opening in the neck portion, i.e., circular
opening 43, the ergonomics of opening and closing the container by
removing and reapplying the cap must be factored into the final
design. Recognizing that the outside diameter size of cap 23 is
approximately 6 3/16 inches, it is awkward to try and unscrew the
cap from a tightly closed container with only one hand. Using two
hands to grip a larger diameter cap precludes the ability to also
hold the container body stationary with the other hand. The
awkwardness of trying to single-handedly manipulate a larger
diameter cap exists whether the cap is being removed or is being
reapplied. In order to help solve this problem, as provided by this
embodiment of the present invention, cap 23 is contoured with a
smaller gripping portion in the form of gripping island 69.
Additionally, land portion 50 is provided and is able to be held
with one hand when unscrewing the cap (and reapplying it) in order
to hold the contoured body 21 relatively stationary. The other hand
grasps gripping island 69 and uses finger recesses 70 to manipulate
the cap 23.
[0073] Although the pouring spout 22 will be described in greater
detail later, a few brief remarks are appropriate here in the
context of generally describing paint container 20. The pouring
spout 22 includes an annular sidewall 73 which is slightly tapered
in its lower portion, leading away from annular collar 74 in a
downward axial direction toward lower edge 75. The exterior surface
of sidewall 73 above collar 74 provides the upper threaded portion
27. The outer annular wall 76, depending from the radial wall 74a
of collar 74, is internally threaded and provides the lower
threaded portion 25. The pouring spout includes an interior opening
77, a wiping edge 78, and a brush receptacle 79 which defines a
series of apertures in bottom wall 80 for the drain-back of surplus
paint into the interior volume 81 of the contoured body 21. The
pouring lip 82 is positioned opposite to the brush receptacle 79
and extends in an upwardly direction as illustrated in FIG. 4.
[0074] By sizing the annular sidewall 73 with a gradual taper and
with an interference fit relative to inner surface 62 at an upper
location adjacent collar 74, a sealed interface by means of this
interference fit can be created between spout 22 and neck portion
26 of the contoured body. This interference fit also helps secure
the pouring spout 22 within the neck portion 26 of container 21. By
having an interference fit, there is less tendency for the spout to
back off of or out of the threaded engagement to the neck portion
26. The threading of the spout onto the neck portion 26 begins with
what can best be described as interference free fit due to the
taper adjacent lower edge 75. However, as the threaded advancement
continues, an interference fit gradually begins to occur. The
threading of the spout onto the neck portion continues until the
top edge of the neck portion seats against the underside surface of
the radial wall 74a. As the threaded advancement occurs, the degree
of interference between sidewall 73 and inner surface 62
progressively becomes tighter and tighter in an effort to try and
achieve or facilitate achieving a sealed interface at that location
between the two members. This interference fit is also intended to
help hold the spout 22 in position in the container body 21 while
cap 23 is removed and reapplied.
[0075] Sealing of the interface between the spout 22 and neck
portion 26 can be provided by the interference fit between sidewall
73 and inner surface 62, or at the interface between the radial
wall 74a of collar 74 and top edge 63 of the neck portion, or at
both locations. While the achievement of suitable sealing can be
attempted by merely surface-to-surface contact, the degree of
tightness of the fit and the force required for tightly screwing
the spout onto the neck, can be a consideration. To lessen the
reliance on only the surface-to-surface contact between these two
members, one or more sealing mechanisms can be incorporated into
the design of paint container 20. Since many of the sealing
mechanisms or structures disclosed herein as part of the present
invention can be used in cooperation with other types of containers
and enclosures, these sealing structures are disclosed in a more
generic form relative to the two (or more) corresponding members
which define the interface to be sealed. More specifically, the
structural members which are disclosed generically represent any
two (or more) structural members which have an interface where some
degree of sealing is desired. In the context of the preferred paint
container embodiments of the present invention, one interface for
sealing is between the spout and the contoured body. Another
interface to be sealed is between the spout and the cap. It would
also be possible to consider a secondary seal between the cap 23
and the collar 74 of the spout 22, as a back up if the primary
spout-to-cap sealed interface would be prone to exhibit leakage.
While the preferred embodiments of the sealing mechanisms of the
present invention utilize formed portions of the members which
define the interface to be sealed, other techniques can be used,
such as the use of separate sealing components or a combination of
formed portions and separate components.
[0076] As should be understood, paint container 20 is generally
symmetrical about centerline 48 and thus includes the associated
component parts. The spout 22 includes a pouring lip 82 which is
centered on centerline 48, while the handle 24, land portion 50,
and recessed portion 49 are also entered in centerline 48. The
centerline alignment of the various portions and components of
paint containers 20, 31, and 36 is important for several reasons.
From the standpoint of stacking and arranging the paint containers
on a store shelf, it is preferable to have some uniformity as to
the location or orientation of handle 24 and preferably to have it
centered on the sides of the container so that the product label in
the front is unobstructed. The threading of the spout is also an
important consideration as a way to properly orient the spout
relative to the corresponding container body with a minimum of
handling machinery complexity.
[0077] When lifting and tilting the paint container in order to
pour out an amount of paint, the centerline of the pouring lip 82
is preferably coincident with the centerline of handle 24 and with
the centerline of land portion 50 or alternatively the molded-in
handle 35a. While the unitary construction of spout 22 (or spout
22') can guarantee pouring lip 82 and handle 24 alignment, their
centerline alignment to land portion 50 or handle 35a depends on
the position of the spout 22 within the container body 21. If a
spout is merely inserted into a container neck portion without any
specific detents, indentations, keys, or some other indexing means
to guarantee proper alignment, then the handling machinery which is
used to deliver the various components to the installation location
and the machinery used to actually install one component into the
other must be arranged in some manner so as to either recognize and
then orient the components in the proper alignment prior to
assembly or deliver the components to the assembly location in the
properly aligned orientation.
[0078] In contrast, the present invention uses the threaded
engagement between the spout 22 and neck portion 26 as well as the
configuration of the threads on the neck portion and/or the
configuration of the threads on the spout in order to guarantee the
desired centerline alignment. The circumferential starting location
for the threaded engagement can be controlled based on the mold
design for the container neck portion and/or based on the mold
design for the spout. The thread pitch and thread length can also
be controlled and effectively these can be used to control the
number of turns or revolutions of the spout 22 as it threads onto
the neck portion 26. A fixed position stop can also be used as part
of one or both sets of threads to precisely control where the
threading of the spout onto the neck portion will stop. Given the
starting location of threaded engagement, the number of turns or
revolutions or fractions thereof, and the precise stopping
location, it is possible to guarantee centerline alignment between
the pouring lip 82 and land portion 50. In practical terms, with
any type of automated filling and capping procedure, the container
body will be provided in an upright orientation with the cap,
spout, and handle removed. Paint is then added to the interior
volume and the container body moves down the assembly line to the
location where the cap, spout, and handle subassembly will be
assembled. Regardless of how the container body might be turned at
the point where the spout is to be assembled and to some extent
regardless of how the spout might be rotated or turned when it is
lowered into engagement with the neck portion, threaded engagement
will begin at a precise location and the number of turns or
portions thereof prior to stopping the threaded engagement will
enable the spout to be assembled to the neck portion such that the
centerline of the pouring lip 82 is coincident with the centerline
of land portion 50 or handle 35a.
[0079] While paint container 20 and the other two paint container
embodiments disclosed herein are not illustrated with any specific
sealing mechanisms or structures, this was done to create a more
generic container structure. It should be understood that one or
more of those sealing mechanism embodiments disclosed herein can be
used and preferably will be used as part of container 20 when
container 20 is used for a liquid such as paint. The disclosed
sealing mechanisms of the present invention can also be used as
part of other container designs, even those that would not be
directed to the storing and dispensing of paint. The structure of
container 20 or either of the other two embodiments (containers 31
and 36) can be used for storing and dispensing other product, such
as fine granular material which is pourable. For such materials, no
further sealing would be required beyond what is illustrated for
the container embodiments of FIGS. 1-2. The various sealing
mechanisms of the present invention and how they can be adapted
into paint container 20, into the other two paint container
embodiments, or into other container designs will be described
herein.
[0080] With references to FIGS. 6, 7, and 8, a second embodiment
for a paint container 31 is illustrated. To begin, it should be
understood that the same style of pouring spout 22 and handle 24
are used in this embodiment (container 31) and their attachment or
engagement with the cap 32 and neck portion 26 are the same as that
illustrated as part of paint container 20. The interior size and
shape of the neck portion 26 of the FIGS. 6-8 container embodiment
is substantially the same as the neck portion 26 of the FIGS. 1-5
container embodiment. As such, with the identical spout being used,
the threaded engagement is the same and the surface-to-surface
interference fit on the interior of the neck portion is the
same.
[0081] The overall design of cap 32 is different from the overall
design of cap 23, but the size, shape and arrangement of the
interior of threaded outer wall 32a of cap 32 is virtually
identical to the size, shape and arrangement of the interior of
threaded outer wall 23a of cap 23. As such, the threaded engagement
between the internal threads on the cap 32 and the upper threaded
portion 27 on the spout 22 is virtually the same in paint
containers 20 and 31. The differences between paint container 20
and paint container 31 are found in the shaping and contouring of
contoured body 30 and in the shaping and contouring of the exterior
of cap 32.
[0082] Referring first to contoured body 30, it includes recessed
portion 88a, 88b, and 89. Portions 88a and 88b are similarly
configured as hand gripping recesses on opposite sides of land
portion 90 and are symmetrically arranged relative to centerline
91. The peripheral edges 92a and 92b of each recessed portion 88a
and 88b, respectively, are smoothly contoured and curved as they
extend from the base or bottom of each recessed portion upwardly
and outwardly to outer surface 93 of contoured body 30.
[0083] Land portion 90, which is centered in centerline 91, is
contoured and tapered along its (longitudinal) sides for easy
gripping by the hand of the user. While the actual shapes of
recessed portions 88a, 88b, and 89 are different from portions 46a,
46b, and 47, they are intended to function and perform in virtually
the same manner. This includes recessed portion 89 which is
intended to receive a product label. The same is true for land
portion 90 as compared to land portion 50. While the corresponding
shapes of these two land portions are slightly different, albeit in
fairly minor ways, these two land portions 90 and 50 are intended
to function and perform in virtually the same manner.
[0084] With regard to cap 32, it includes a generally cylindrical
outer wall 32a which defines a series of equally spaced, recessed
pockets 95 which serve as finger indents to facilitate gripping of
cap 32 by the hand of the user. The raised upper portion 96 of cap
32 is generally cylindrical and cooperates with a recessed circular
portion (not illustrated) in base 97 so as to enable to one (or
more) paint containers 31 to be stacked by placing portion 96 of
one container into portion 97 of another container.
[0085] The upper surface of the raised upper portion 96 is
contoured with two recessed segment-shaped pockets 100 and 101
which are separated by dividing ridge 102. The peripheral edges 103
of each pocket 101, 102 are smoothly contoured and curved as they
extend from the bottom of each pocket to the outer surface of
portion 96. These two recessed pockets 100 and 101 in cooperation
with the dividing ridge 102 enable the cap 32 to be grasped in an
ergonomically-convenient manner so as to more easily remove the cap
32 from the spout 22 in order to open container 31 and also to more
easily reapply cap 32 to spout 22 to close container 31.
[0086] With reference to FIGS. 9, 10, 11 and 12, a third embodiment
for a paint container 36 is illustrated. To begin, it should be
understood that virtually the same style of pouring spout 22' is
used in this embodiment (container 36) and its engagement with the
cap 37 and with neck portion 26 is basically the same as that
illustrated for spout 22 as part of paint containers 20 and 31. The
one difference between spout 22' and 22 is the elimination of pivot
posts 44 from spout 22'. With regard to paint container 36, a
hinged, bail-like handle is not used and thus there is no need for
the handle pivot posts 44 as part of the annular collar 106. While
this third preferred embodiment for a paint container includes a
molded-in handle 35a, and thus the decision to not include a
separate hinged, bail-like handle 24, spout 22' could be replaced
by spout 22 if such a handle might be desired as part of the
overall container 36 design. Closing cap 37 of container 36 is
virtually identical to closing cap 32 of container 31.
[0087] The interior size and shape of the neck portion 26 of the
FIGS. 9-12 paint container embodiment is substantially the same as
the neck portion 26 of the FIGS. 1-5 and FIGS. 6-8 embodiments. As
such, with virtually the identical spout being used, the threaded
engagement between the cap 37 and spout 22' is the same as in the
prior two embodiments using spout 22. Likewise, the threaded
engagement between the spout 22' and container body 35 is the same
as in the prior two embodiments. Further, the surface-to-surface
interference fit on the interior between the neck portion 26 and
spout inner sidewall 73 is the same as in the prior two
embodiments.
[0088] As noted, the overall design of cap 37 is virtually
identical to the design of cap 32. The same recessed pockets 95 are
included as part of cap 37 as well as the two recessed
segment-shaped pockets 100 and 101 and dividing ridge 102. The
contouring of the pockets 100 and 101 is the same between cap 37
and cap 32, including the same contoured peripheral edges 103.
[0089] In addition to the removal of handle 24 from the FIGS. 9-12
embodiment of paint container 36, the most noticeable change with
respect to either of the other two embodiments is the replacement
of the recessed portions 46a, 46b, 88a, and 88b and replacement of
the land portions 50 and 90, by the molded-in handle 35a. Handle
35a is centered on parting centerline 108 and is bounded on
opposite sides by clearance spaces 109a and 109b. These clearance
spaces help to provide hand clearance for the hand of the user to
be able to reach around and fully grasp handle 35a, allowing the
fingers to extend into aperture 110. The handle 35a clearance
spaces 109a and 109b and aperture 110 are smoothly shaped and
contoured for ergonomic comfort and convenience. In view of the
fact that this handle 35a is intended to be used to lift the filled
paint container 36 and to pour out paint by way of spout 22', the
circumferential size of handle 35a is ergonomically important, as
is the contoured shape, including ridge 107, in order to handle the
weight and to dispense paint smoothly and in a controlled
fashion.
[0090] The single recessed portion of the prior two embodiments
which is designed to receive a product label has been replaced with
two recessed portions 111a and 111b located symmetrically on
opposite sides of centerline 108. The addition of handle 35a and
its configuration, as part of contoured body 35, requires that for
the most cost effective mold design, the mold parting line
coincides with centerline 108. With this parting line, any attempt
to incorporate a molded-in label would not be possible with a
single, wrap-around, recessed portion for the product label, as
shown in the first two embodiments, noting portions 47 and 89. In
those embodiments using the referenced centerline (48 and 91,
respectively) as the mold parting line would mean that the mold
parting line would pass through the center of the label.
Accordingly, this third embodiment for paint container 36 discloses
another feature of the present invention. Specifically, this
embodiment discloses the concept and structure of two separate
recessed portions for product labeling which portions are on
opposite sides of the mold parting line such that molded-in-place
labels can be used.
[0091] The base 114 of contoured body 35 is contoured with a
recessed pocket 115 which is sized and shaped to receive the raised
upper portion 116 of cap 37 for achieving the stackable capability
for paint container 36. The configuration of base 114 including
pocket 115 and the configuration of upper portion 116 are such that
the stacking of paint container 36 can be achieved in basically the
same manner as achieved for the first two paint container
embodiments.
[0092] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the details of handle 24 and
its connection to spout 22 are illustrated. In the context of
handle 24 and its attachment to spout 22, FIGS. 13 and 14
illustrate the details of the pair of oppositely-disposed pivot
posts 44. In the context of the description of these components, it
should be understood that each of the basic structural elements
that are part of each paint container described herein, including
paint containers 20, 31, and 36, are molded out of plastic as
unitary members. This means that each contoured body, each spout,
each cap, and each separate handle, is a unitary, molded plastic
member. It is intended that the selected materials will be
recyclable materials. Suitable materials for the contoured body
include various grades of polyethylene, ranging from medium to
high-density resins. Suitable materials for the spout and cap
include a high-density, injection-molding grade, polyethylene
resin. Suitable materials for the handle include a low to medium
density polyethylene resin.
[0093] Returning to the description of the handle 24 and pivot
posts 44, it will be seen that each pivot post 44 includes an
enlarged cylindrical head 125 and a concentric, reduced diameter
stem 126 integrally connecting the head 125 to the outer
cylindrical surface of spout 22. The cooperating handle 24 includes
a wider gripping portion 127 which connects to the
oppositely-disposed, open sockets 128 by more narrow, tapered
portions 129. Each socket 128 is substantially cylindrical with a
pivot post entry opening 130 and a part-cylindrical groove 131. The
axial height or width of groove 131 in each socket 128 is sized and
arranged to receive the enlarged cylindrical head 125 of the
corresponding pivot post 44.
[0094] In order to initially attach handle 24 to spout 22, the
preferred approach is to do so with the spout separated from the
remainder of the corresponding paint container. By orienting the
body of handle 24 below the spout, the handle 24 is able to snap
onto the two pivot posts 44 by first positioning the sockets above
the posts such that each opening 130 is aligned with its
corresponding pivot post 44. Then, by pulling the handle down in
the direction of the posts, the heads 125 are able to slide into
the corresponding opening 130 and from there into the corresponding
groove 131. The handle body is then pivoted upwardly to a generally
horizontal orientation. When the spout is attached to the container
body, the handle is able to rest in this horizontal orientation by
actually resting on a portion of the container body. However, the
handle is able to freely pivot on pivot posts 44 from its
horizontal, stowed condition to a vertical, dispensing condition.
In order to separate handle 24 from the pivot posts 44, the handle
has to be moved so that the enlarged cylindrical head 125 of each
pivot post can slide out of the receiving groove 131.
[0095] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the details of spout 22 are
illustrated. Included as part of spout 22 are a pouring lip 82, a
brush-wiping edge 78, a brush-holding receptacle 79, and drain-back
apertures in bottom wall 80. The pouring lip 82 and brush-wiping
edge 78 cooperate to define interior opening 77. It should be
understood that spout 22' is identical to spout 22 except for the
elimination of pivot posts 44 from spout 22'. Spout 22 has a
substantially annular form for ease of insertion into neck portion
26 and for the described interference fit (around the entire
circumference) due to the annular form of neck portion 26. The
interior opening 77 is sized to receive a paint brush for dipping
the brush into the paint contained within the interior volume 81.
As the paint brush is withdrawn, it can be rubbed across wiping
edge 78 in order to wipe the excess paint from the brush bristles.
The brush-wiping edge 78 is actually part of blade 140 which is
inclined with edge 78 being the lower point. Blade 140 is of a
unitary construction with the inner surface of spout 22 and
separates the interior opening 77 from the brush-holding receptacle
79.
[0096] The pouring lip 82 includes a contoured center portion 82a
in order to help center the dispensing flow of paint and control
the size and location of the existing stream of paint. Bottom wall
80 is substantially flat and defines three drain-back apertures
141. These apertures 141 allow any paint that drips or runs off of
the paint brush when placed or stored in the receptacle 79 to
return to the interior volume 81 of the container body. As the
brush is wiped across edge 78 so as to remove excess paint, it is
anticipated that some excess paint will actually collect on the
surface of blade 140. Due to the inclined nature of blade 140 which
is directed toward interior opening 77, any excess paint that
collects on the surface of blade 140 is able to run down and back
into the interior volume 81 by way of interior opening 77. If the
volume of paint being collected on blade 140 is such that some of
the paint actually cascades over the opposite edge of blade 140
into receptacle 79, this excess paint is also able to return to the
interior volume 81 by way of drain-back apertures 141. By locating
posts 44 in a location which is axially close to pouring lip 82 and
in particular portion 82a, an improved balance for container 20 is
achieved and this helps to smoothly dispense paint from container
20 by tilting and pouring.
[0097] As explained herein, it is contemplated, as part of the
present invention, that one or more sealing mechanisms or
structures will be arranged as part of paint containers 20, 31, and
36. Since these sealing mechanisms according to the present
invention have a broad application to other types of containers and
for sealing an interface between two or more members, they are
described in a more generic manner. In the context of the present
invention, the locations within paint containers 20, 31, and 36
where one or more of the sealing mechanisms can be utilized are
identified. Any minor details of exactly how to configure the two
(or more) cooperating sealing portions of the two (or more)
interface members in the context of the three paint container
embodiments should be clear to one of ordinary skill in the
art.
[0098] Continuing with the description of the various sealing
structures or mechanisms of the present invention, reference will
be made to FIGS. 16-25.
[0099] Referring first to FIG. 16, there is illustrated sealing
mechanism 160 which includes an annular container neck finish 161
fabricated from a mono block tool design with buttress threads 162
and squared, annular land area 163 at the upper surface. An
integrated spout 164 includes an outer radial projection 165 which
rests on the inside edge of the land area 163. The upper land
portion 166 of the spout is angled to allow minimal clearance
between the spout outer surfaces of upper land portions 166 and 168
and the inside cap surfaces 169 and 170, respectively. The cap 175
includes an outer collar 176 with an angled portion 176a which,
when tightened onto a container (via surface 169), contacts the
outer, upper edge 177 of the upper land area 163 with
surface-to-surface interference. Sealing is achieved by deforming
the upper edge 177 of land area 163 at an angle of between
approximately 15 and 85 degrees. This may be accomplished either
with a single angled surface or with a compound angled surface. As
deformation continues to increase following multiple uses, the
spout 164 is compressed onto the upper, annular land area 163 of
the container, thereby providing additional sealing. The spout 164
also serves to provide structural support for the corresponding
container by preventing collapse of the neck as the cap is
tightened. The spout is retained in the container by a small raised
rib 178, which may preferably be either solid or segmented, located
on the outer surface 179 of wall 180 below the radial projection
165. The combination of materials between cap 175 and container
neck 161 is such that one component has a lower modulus of
elasticity relative to the other. This difference permits material
deformation more readily of the component with the lower modulus in
order to achieve sealing.
[0100] Referring to FIG. 17, sealing mechanism 190 is illustrated.
Sealing mechanism 190, which includes cap 189, spout 192, and
annular container neck 193, is similar in certain respects to
sealing mechanism 160. One difference between these two designs
relates to the fact that the radial lip 191 of the spout 192 is
located below the upper surface 196 of the container neck 193 and
is retained by a raised rib 194 formed by a choker ring from the
mono block tool design. Sealing is achieved by deforming the upper
outer edge 195 at an angle of between approximately 15 and 85
degrees, either with a single angled surface as part of cap 189 or
with a compound angled surface. By locating the spout 192
(including lip 191) below the upper surface 196 of the container
neck 193, radial deformation of the container neck is permitted and
provides a means of conforming to inconsistent surfaces and
ovality.
[0101] Referring to FIG. 18, there is illustrated a sealing
mechanism 200 which has similarity to sealing mechanism 190.
Sealing mechanism 200 includes cap 189, spout 192, and annular
container neck 201. Container neck 201 is designed with an annular
undercut groove 202 formed into the outer surface 203 of the
container neck finish 201. The undercut groove 202 forms a more
conforming and flexible sealing lip 204 to the angled surface 205
of the cap 189. This sealing mechanism 200 would preferably require
the spout 192 to be located below the upper surface of the
container neck finish 201.
[0102] Referring to FIG. 19, there is illustrated sealing mechanism
210 which is similar to what is illustrated in FIG. 18 for sealing
mechanism 200. Sealing mechanism 210 includes a cap 211 with an
angled groove 212 therein which is provided to locate and form
multiple sealing edges with container neck 214. Sealing is achieved
by wedging the upper lip portion 213 of the container neck 214 into
a groove 212 which is located generally at the same diameter as
that of container neck 214. The groove 212 is designed with angled
side walls 215 and 216, allowing optimal engagement and compression
to the lip portion 213 of container neck 214 within the desired
rotation and axial travel of caps 211. The spout 217 has a design
which is substantially the same as spout 192.
[0103] Referring to FIG. 20, there is illustrated sealing mechanism
220 which includes closing cap 221, annular container neck 222, and
spout 223. Sealing mechanism 220 further includes a flexible,
annular lip 224 (or alternatively a plurality of annular lips) as
part of cap 221. The flexible lip 224 is oriented in a slanting,
inward direction and is constructed and arranged so as to sealingly
contact the upper land surface 225 of the container neck 222. The
flexible lip 224 is constructed and arranged to deform as the cap
221 is tightened onto the container neck, forming a concentrated
sealing force applied onto the upper land surface 225.
[0104] Referring to FIG. 21, there is illustrated sealing mechanism
230 which includes closing cap 231, annular container neck 232, and
spout 233. The uniform container neck finish 232 is formed from a
mono block tool design with buttress threads 234 and squared,
annular land area 235 at the upper surface. The integrated spout
233 is constructed and arranged to cover the upper surface of land
area 235 of the container neck 232. Cap 231 includes an inner
angled surface 237a on annular protrusion 237 which, when tightened
onto a container, creates contact with the inner edge 236 of the
spout. Sealing is achieved by means of short flat land seals 238
and 239 which make contact with the upper surface 240 of the spout
233. The cap has an inner angled surface 237a which deforms the
inner edge 236 of the spout and container to form a complying
sealing surface at that interface. Spout 233 is preferably made
from a material having a lower modulus of elasticity than that of
annular protrusion 237 so as to bias sealing deflection into the
spout. There are though cases when annular protrusion 237 is
preferred to be biased and create sealing through deformation using
a lower modulus material than that of spout 233.
[0105] Referring to FIG. 22, there is illustrated sealing mechanism
244 which includes closing cap 245, annular container neck 246, and
spout 247. Sealing mechanism 244, which has a number of
similarities to sealing mechanism 230, further includes a flexible,
annular member 248 which acts as a secondary seal and replaces the
inner annular protrusion 237. Container neck 246 includes a uniform
container neck finish fabricated from a mono block tool design with
buttress threads 249 and squared land area 250 at the upper
surface. Spout 247 is constructed and arranged to cover the upper
surface of the container neck. The flexible member 248 protrudes
downward from the deck of the cap which, when tightened onto a
container, yields contact with the inner surface 251 of the spout.
Sealing is achieved by means of short, flat land seals 252 and 253
which make contact with the upper surface 254 of the spout and from
the flexible member 248 in contact with the spout. An additional,
axially protruding, annular member 255 is located radially inwardly
of the flexible member 248 and extends axially below the flexible
member 248. This additional member 255 provides protection
(preventing damage) for the flexible member 248 during
manufacturing, handling, and shipping and assembly. Means for
preventing spout rotation may be employed with this sealing
mechanism design. Member 255 also provides a product baffle or
shield that limits direct product influence when being shaken
vigorously.
[0106] Referring to FIG. 23, there is illustrated sealing mechanism
260 which includes closing cap 261, annular container neck 262, and
spout 263. The container neck 262 of sealing mechanism 260 includes
a uniform neck finish fabricated from a mono block tool design with
buttress threads 264 and squared, land area 265 at the upper
surface. The spout 263 is constructed and arranged to cover the
upper land area 265 of the container neck 262. The cap 261 extends
over and around spout 263 and thus the outer radial collar 266 of
the spout is sandwiched between the neck 262 and cap 261. Sealing
is achieved by means of tapered and projecting land seals 267 and
268 which are in the form of "V"-beads and which make contact with
the land area 265 of the spout. The cap 261 will also seal to the
spout by means of flat, land seal 270. The preferred embodiment is
to have the "V"-beads 267 and 268 of a softer material so as to
achieve deformation and provide sealing relative to container neck
262.
[0107] Referring to FIG. 24, there is illustrated sealing mechanism
275 which includes closing cap 276, annular container neck 277, and
spout 278. Sealing mechanism 275 is similar to sealing mechanism
260 with the lone exception of including flexible member 279
protruding downwardly from the deck of cap 276. Member 279 is used
to establish a sealed interface against the inner surface 280 of
spout 278. As the cap is tightened onto the neck 277 of the
container, the size, shape and location of member 279 relative to
the spout causes member 279 to deflect due to the interference
which is experienced and this in turn creates a contact seal.
[0108] Referring to FIG. 25, there is illustrated sealing mechanism
285 which includes closing cap 286, annular container neck 287, and
spout 288. The container neck 287 includes a uniform bottle neck
finish fabricated from a mono block tool design with buttress
threads 289 and squared land area 280 at the upper surface. The
spout 288 includes a radial lip 288a which is located below the
upper surface 290 of the container neck and is retained by raised
rib 291 formed by a choker ring from the mono block tool design.
The upper inside surface of the cap includes (and defines) and
annular groove 292 which receives a flexible, annular, square-cut
gasket 293. Alternatively the gasket 293 shape could be round in
lateral section or O-ring shaped. Sealing is achieved by means of
compressing the gasket 293 against the upper surface 290 of the
container neck in order to form a complying sealing surface at
reduced torque amounts over other sealing means. The key to
effective sealing is to select a gasket material which is compliant
relative to sealing surface 290.
[0109] The sealing mechanisms disclosed as part of the present
invention (see FIGS. 16-25) are illustrated, in one general
application, as they can be used for sealing an interface or
interfaces between two or more structural members. As should be
understood, the structural members selected as one means to
describe the specifics of each sealing mechanism include a
container body with a threaded neck portion, a pouring spout
inserted into the neck portion, and a removable closing cap which
is threadedly attachable to the container neck portion. However,
one or more of the disclosed sealing mechanisms can also be used as
part of other container configurations, including the paint
container embodiments of FIGS. 1-15, as one example of other
compatible container configurations which are suitable to be
configured with one or more of the disclosed sealing
mechanisms.
[0110] As one example of how one or more of the sealing mechanisms
disclosed herein can be adapted for use with one of the disclosed
paint container embodiments, consider the sealing mechanism 210 of
FIG. 19. If we consider only the cap 211 and the container neck
214, these two structural members have a wedge-type seal between
lip portion 213 and groove 212. This type of sealing mechanism
could be used in paint container 20 by shaping cap 23 with groove
212 and spout 22 with lip portion 213. In addition, or
alternatively, this type of sealing mechanism could be used in
paint container 20 by shaping spout 22 with groove 212 and the
container neck portion 26 with lip portion 213.
[0111] The sealing mechanism 220 of FIG. 20 can also be adapted for
use with paint container 20. In this arrangement, one location for
sealing is between the cap 23 and the upper edge (land area) of
spout 22. In order to incorporate the design principles of sealing
mechanism 220, the cap 23 needs to be shaped so as to include
flexible lip 224. In addition or alternatively, another location
for sealing is between the spout 22 and the top edge (land area) 63
of neck portion 26.
[0112] In a similar manner, the sealing mechanism 230 of FIG. 21
can be adapted to be incorporated into paint container 20 at the
location between the upper edge of the spout 22 and cap 23. The
improvement of sealing mechanism 244 of FIG. 22 in the form of
protective member 255 can be included as part of the modification
of paint container 20 in order to incorporate this sealing
mechanism.
[0113] With reference now to FIGS. 26-33B, another embodiment of
the present invention is illustrated. Paint container 300 includes
an injection-molded, generally cylindrical container body 301, a
pouring spout 302 that is secured to container body 301, a closing
lid 303 and a lift handle 304. The closing lid 303 is constructed
and arranged for threaded engagement with the pouring spout 302 for
closing the generally annular container opening 305. The lift
handle 304 snaps onto a pair of oppositely-disposed hinge posts 306
which are injection molded as part of container body 301 which is a
unitary member, including the two hinge posts 306. The pouring
spout 302, closing lid 303, and lift handle 304 are each injection
molded out of a suitable plastic. The preferred material for the
container body 301, the pouring spout 302, and closing lid 303, and
the lift handle 304 is a high density polyethylene.
[0114] Container body 301, excluding for now the two hinge posts
306, has the unitary shape of a straight cylinder with a
cylindrical sidewall 310 and a closed circular base 311. The upper
edge 312 of the sidewall 310 defines the circular container opening
305. The two hinge posts 306 which are injection molded as part of
sidewall 310 each have a larger cylindrical head portion 313 and a
reduced diameter stem portion 314.
[0115] Pouring spout 302 is a unitary, injection-molded component
which is welded to the upper edge 312 of sidewall 310, as
illustrated in FIG. 31A. The outer periphery of pouring spout 302
defines an inverted U-shaped channel 318 with base 318a, inner wall
318b, and outer wall 318c. Base 318a rests on upper edge 312 and is
used to set the axial depth of the pouring spout 302 into the
container body 301. The U-shaped channel 318 is used to provide
welding surfaces to securely attach the pouring spout 302 directly
to the container body 301.
[0116] Pouring spout 302 further includes a curved dispensing
portion 319, centered pouring recess 320, upper cylindrical wall
321, and external threads 322. The inset nature of wall 321
provides sufficient clearance space for the internally-threaded,
generally cylindrical skirt 325 of closing lid 303 without
interference with lift handle 304. The geometry of the curved
dispensing portion 319 and its cooperative arrangement with drip
channel 319a is illustrated in FIG. 32B. Any paint which drips from
the lip of recess 320 or runs down the outer surface is intended to
be "caught" by the drip channel 319a. The elevated nature of
channel 319a at the location of recess 320 is important because it
enables an inclined return path along the outer surface of
dispensing portion 319. The collected paint is able to run back
into the container, exiting the pouring spout at edges 319b.
[0117] The closing lid 303 further includes an upper gripping
portion 326 which is substantially cylindrical and generally
concentric with skirt 325, offset from one another by portion 327.
The upper gripping portion 326 includes an evenly-spaced series of
finger grooves 326a to facilitate gripping of the closing lid for
threadedly advancing it and removing it from the pouring spout. The
upper surface 328 is configured with a dividing ridge 329 and two
recessed, segment-shaped pockets 330 and 331, similar in several
respects to cap 32. These two pockets 330 and 331 in cooperation
with ridge 329 can also be used to facilitate the gripping and the
manual removal (unscrewing) of the closing lid 303 from the
remainder of the container, specifically from the
externally-threaded wall 321 of the pouring spout 302.
[0118] The lift handle 304 is a unitary, injection-molded plastic
component including a wider gripping portion 334, connecting band
portions 335, and connection sockets 336, each of which slides onto
a corresponding one of the hinge posts 306. The styling of the
sockets 336 and their connection to hinge posts 306 is similar to
that type of connection used in the earlier embodiment of the
present invention.
[0119] The inner surface of each socket 336 is configured with a
receiving pocket 340 which is defined in part by an outer wall 341.
The outer wall 341 defines a wider entry slot 342 and a more narrow
clearance slot 343. By positioning the handle horizontally, the
entry slots 342 are lined up with the hinge posts 306. The enlarged
head 313 is able to fit within the receiving pocket 340 while the
stem portion 314 extends through slot 343. Pulling horizontally on
the handle seats each hinge post 306 in the closed base of each
socket 336. In the normal lifting or carrying orientation, the
weight of the container 300 (and its contents) are transmitted
through hinge posts 306 to the closed base of each socket 336. A
small deflection tab 344, which is integral with each socket 336,
captures the head 313 in order to prevent release of the lift
handle 304.
[0120] Referring to FIG. 31A, the assembly and connection of the
container body 301, pouring spout 302, closing lid 303, and lift
handle 304 are illustrated. The connection of lift handle 304 to
hinge post 306 has already been described. The connection between
the inverted U-shaped channel 318 of the pouring spout and the
upper edge 312 of the container body is designed for welding (spin
or ultrasonic) in order to establish a securely joined, air-tight
interface. The upper edge 312 is pointed to further facilitate the
welding process. The lower portion 318d of inner wall 318b is
tapered (angled) inwardly so as to provide a guiding function for
the pouring spout 302 as it is applied to the container body
301.
[0121] The closing lid 303 includes an inner axial sealing wall 350
which extends in a direction which is substantially parallel to
cylindrical skirt 325. The spacing between skirt 325 and wall 350
is sufficient to provide clearance for the upper cylindrical wall
321 of the pouring spout. While the referenced "clearance" enables
the secure threaded engagement between the closing lid 303 and the
pouring spout 302, there is no clearance between sealing wall 350
and the inner surface of wall 321. The degree of interference
between wall 321 and sealing wall 350 results in a liquid-tight
sealed interface at the point of contact. This prevents the leakage
of paint.
[0122] In comparing some of the more practical aspects between
blow-molded containers and containers which are injection-molded,
one of the first differences which comes to mind is their
comparative stacking strength. As is generally well known, a
blow-molded bottle or container does not have particularly high
stacking strength. In comparison, the injection-molding of a
container into a generally cylindrical shape allows one to maximize
the stacking strength which may be as high as 1400 or 1500 pounds
of force. In the context of the present invention for paint
container 300, it should be noted that the welding of two plastic
components together requires a relatively high force and this would
be applicable to the welding of the disclosed pouring spout 302
directly to the upper edge of container body 301. It is anticipated
that as much as 700 to 800 pounds of force will be required and
this force will be transmitted to the paint container body 301. A
blow-molded container will not withstand this level of force while
the generally cylindrical container body 301, which is
injection-molded, will support or hold this level of force.
[0123] Another difference between blow-molded container technology
and injection-molded container technology relates to the overall
shape of the container and for this specific application, the
direction or manner in which paint is to be poured from the
container. For a variety of design reasons and consistent with
blow-molded container technology, a portion of the container body
(i.e., a front portion) actually extends out such that it falls in
line with the pouring direction or pouring line when dispensing
paint out of the container. This particular item is not an issue
with an injection molded container due to the ability to create a
true or straight cylindrical shape which is inset from the pouring
line.
[0124] The diameter size of the dispensing opening in the container
body also presents another technology difference between
blow-molded designs and injection-molded designs. It is possible to
create a larger opening with the injection-molded container and
this can provide certain advantages for paint and for painting.
[0125] A further difference between blow-molded containers and
injection-molded containers relates to the existence of parting
lines and the amount or extent of flash which remains after
molding. It is a fact that even with post processing of the
blow-molded container, it will still not likely have the same
quality level as one would receive with an injection-molded
container. Any remnants of flash on a critical surface, such as the
opening which has to be sealed, will present difficulties and
design challenges. If this flash interferes such that air is able
to leak past the seal into the container, this air will promote
"skinning" of the paint which is generally regarded as being
undesirable, if not unacceptable, when trying to apply paint. With
an injection-molded seal design, it is believed that an air tight
seal can be obtained and thereby eliminate the "skinning"
problem.
[0126] Another point to recognize with regard to the
injection-molded, generally cylindrical container body 301 is its
compatibility with existing filling equipment and its compatibility
with existing labeling machines, both of which would otherwise be
expensive to replace. The different and contoured shape of certain
blow-molded containers will not be compatible with existing
equipment. Related to this issue of compatibility is the design of
current or existing paint can shaking equipment for use during a
tinting process at the retailer. The generally cylindrical
configuration of container body 301 is compatible with existing
shakers and thus such equipment does not have to be replaced or
supplemented with new equipment.
[0127] If it is desired to have external hinge posts such as hinge
posts 306 on the outer surface of the container body, it is
extremely difficult to even attempt such a molding task with a
blow-molded container. However, with an injection-molded container
body, the hinge posts 306 can very easily be incorporated into the
mold design for a unitary combination with the remainder of the
container body.
[0128] While the blow-molded container designs, as disclosed
herein, are believed to have a valuable use and market,
particularly on a large scale, there are clearly benefits to be
derived from a more simplistic styling whereby a more conventional
metal paint can be replaced by an injection-molded paint can which
precludes the aforementioned problems of rusting and denting and
which provides a lighter weight and more convenient package while
still incorporating all of the benefits of an integral pouring
spout.
[0129] With reference now to FIGS. 34-39, another embodiment of the
present invention is illustrated. Paint container 400 includes an
injection-molded, generally cylindrical container body 401, a
pouring spout 402 that is secured to container body 401, a closing
lid 403 and a lift handle 404. The closing lid 403 is constructed
and arranged for threaded engagement with the pouring spout 402 for
closing the generally annular container opening 405. The lift
handle 404 snaps onto a pair of oppositely-disposed hinge posts 406
which are injection molded as part of container body 401 which is a
unitary member, including the two hinge posts 406. The pouring
spout 402, closing lid 403, and lift handle 404 are each injection
molded out of a suitable plastic. The preferred material for the
container body 401, the pouring spout 402, and closing lid 403, and
the lift handle 404 is a high density polyethylene.
[0130] Container body 401, excluding for now the two hinge posts
406, has the unitary shape of a straight cylinder with a
cylindrical sidewall 410 and a closed circular base 411. The upper
edge 412 of the sidewall 410 defines the circular container opening
405. The two hinge posts 406 which are injection molded as part of
sidewall 410 each have a larger cylindrical head portion 413 and a
reduced diameter stem portion 414.
[0131] Pouring spout 402 is a unitary, injection-molded component
which is welded to the upper edge 412 of sidewall 410, as
illustrated in FIG. 39. The small radial lip 418 which rests on
upper edge 412 is used to set the axial depth of the pouring spout
402 into the container body 401. This radial lip 418 is also used
as a welding surface to securely attach the pouring spout 402
directly to the container body 401.
[0132] Pouring spout 402 further includes a curved dispensing
portion 419, centered pouring recess 420, upper cylindrical wall
421, and external threads 422. The inset nature of wall 421
provides sufficient clearance space for the internally-threaded,
generally cylindrical skirt 425 of closing lid 403 without
interference with lift handle 404.
[0133] The closing lid 403 further includes an upper gripping
portion 426 which is substantially cylindrical and generally
concentric with skirt 425, offset from one another by portion 427.
The upper surface 428 is configured with a dividing ridge 429 and
two recessed, segment-shaped pockets 430 and 431, similar in
several respects to cap 32. These two pockets 430 and 431 in
cooperation with ridge 429 can also be used to facilitate the
gripping and the manual removal (unscrewing) of the closing lid 403
from the remainder of the container, specifically from the
externally-threaded wall 421 of the pouring spout 402.
[0134] The lift handle 404 is a unitary, injection-molded plastic
component including a wider gripping portion 434, connecting band
portions 435, and connection sockets 436, each of which slides onto
a corresponding one of the hinge posts 406. The styling of the
sockets 436 and their connection to hinge posts 406 is similar to
that type of connection used in the earlier embodiment of the
present invention.
[0135] While the invention has been illustrated and described in
detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be
considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it
being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown
and described and that all changes and modifications that come
within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.
* * * * *