US20160001918A1

US20160001918A1 - Container with separable components

Info

Publication number: US20160001918A1
Application number: US14/323,219
Authority: US
Inventors: Storm Orion; Mathew Clark
Original assignee: Performance Designed Products LLC
Current assignee: Performance Designed Products LLC
Priority date: 2014-07-03
Filing date: 2014-07-03
Publication date: 2016-01-07
Also published as: CA2896069A1

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a container for holding an object with separate components, each similar in construction. In some embodiments, the components of the container may be substantially identical with one another. A first component of the container may include a coupling region that is identical and complementary to the coupling region of a second component of the container. Coupling the components with one another (e.g., press fit) forms an enclosure for the object. In some embodiments, fastening members of a coupling region of a container component may extend along a distance smaller than a mating perimeter, defined by identical and complementary coupling regions, that extends along a transverse plane defining two halves of the container enclosure.

Description

BACKGROUND

1. Field
Aspects herein relate to packaging containers having separable components.
2. Discussion of Related Art
Containers come in multiple shapes and sizes, depending on the object(s) to be stored therein. As an example, for temporary storage of various items that are sold via vending machines, relatively small disposable containers are often used.
Some containers include multiple components. Accordingly, closure of the container may involve engaging the components with one another (e.g., placing a lid on a jar). And opening of the container involves separating the components from one another (e.g., removing the lid from the jar).
In some cases, various components of a container may have complementary parts (e.g., male and female, threaded, etc.) that allow the components to interlock when pressed or engaged together, for closure of the container. Accordingly, the container may be opened and closed by attaching and detaching the components from one another.

SUMMARY

Aspects described herein relate to a container that comprises separate components which are attachable to detachable from one another, and are similar in construction. In various embodiments, each of the components of the container may be fabricated according to a common process, which may simplify overall manufacture of the container components. Aspects of the present disclosure may provide improvements in the manufacturing of product packaging.
In some embodiments, a container for holding one or more objects includes two components that may or may not be substantially identical to one another in structure. Each of the components may have a coupling region and a shell that defines half of an enclosure for the object. The coupling regions of each of the components may be substantially identical and complementary to one another, for example, the coupling regions may have fastening members constructed and arranged for mutual engagement. The coupling regions may define a mating perimeter (e.g., circumference) that extends along a transverse plane defining two halves of the container. In some embodiments, a fastening member of a coupling region may extend along a distance (e.g., an arcuate distance) smaller than the perimeter defined by the coupling regions.
In an illustrative embodiment, a container for holding an object is provided. The container includes a first component having a first coupling region and a shell defining a first half of an enclosure. The container also includes a second component having a second coupling region substantially identical and complementary to the first coupling region and a shell defining a second half of the enclosure. The first and second components are constructed and arranged to couple with one another along the identical and complementary first and second coupling regions to form the enclosure for the object.
In another illustrative embodiment, a container for holding an object is provided. The container includes a first component having a first coupling region and a shell defining a first half of an enclosure, the first coupling region having a first fastening member and a second fastening member. The container also includes a second component having a second coupling region substantially identical and complementary to the first coupling region and a shell defining a second half of the enclosure, the second coupling region having a third fastening member and a fourth fastening member. The first fastening member is constructed and arranged to engage with the third fastening member and the second fastening member is constructed and arranged to engage with the fourth fastening member, to form the enclosure for the object. The first and second fastening members extend along a distance smaller than a perimeter, defined by the first and second coupling regions, that extends along a transverse plane defining two halves of the container.
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide certain advantages. Not all embodiments of the present disclosure share the same advantages and those that do may not share them under all circumstances. Various embodiments described may be used in combination and may provide additive benefits.
Further features and advantages of the present disclosure, as well as the structure of various embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various figures is represented by a like numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. Various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a container in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 2 depicts a side plan view of a component of the container of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates a side plan view of components of the container of FIG. 1, positioned in a coupled arrangement;

FIG. 4 depicts a side plan view of the container of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 5A-5B show close up cross-sectional views of two complementary components of a container in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 5C depicts a cross sectional view of components of a container in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 5D shows a cross sectional view of the container of FIG. 5C;

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of another container in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 7 illustrates a side plan view of components of the container of FIG. 6, positioned in a coupled arrangement;

FIG. 8 depicts a side plan view of the container of FIG. 6;

FIGS. 9A-9B show close up views of a cross-section of two complementary components of another container in accordance with an embodiment;

FIGS. 10A-10B depict perspective view of another container in accordance with an embodiment; and

FIG. 10C shows a side plan view of the container of FIGS. 10A-10B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates to containers that have components that are substantially similar in structure. In some embodiments, a container may include two components, or halves, that are identical in construction. The components may be coupled to one another to form an enclosure within which any suitable object(s) may be placed.
The overall process of manufacture for containers in accordance with the present disclosure may be comparatively simpler than that for conventional containers. For instance, while conventional containers may include two or more components that are complementary in structure, for mutual engagement thereof, such containers may require manufacture of components that are structurally different. Accordingly, conventional containers may require multiple sets of tooling and molds for manufacture thereof, as well as stocking of multiple different types of discrete components, for later use.
However, for embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure, container components may have substantially the same or duplicate structure. Accordingly, only one type of component needs to be fabricated and stocked. It follows that complete container sets, such as those described herein, may be fabricated by using only one type of mold, making manufacturing processes for such containers relatively simple in comparison to conventional processes.
FIG. 1 depicts a container 100 having components 110 a, 110 b each having the same structure. In some embodiments, as illustrated here, the components 110 a, 110 b of the container 100 are substantially identical with one another. The components 110 a, 110 b may further be configured to couple with one another to form an enclosure defining an internal volume within which one or more objects may be held. For example, the components 110 a, 110 b may have respective shells 112 a, 112 b which, when the components 110 a, 110 b are coupled together, provide a suitable enclosure for protecting any object(s) located with the volume defined therein.
The components 110 a, 110 b may have coupling regions that are identical in structure and, hence, are constructed to be able to interface with one another along a mating perimeter (e.g., circumference) so that the components are held together to form the container 100. In some embodiments, the coupling regions may have corresponding fastening regions or parts that, when suitably aligned, are able to be attached or otherwise coupled with one another. For instance, the component 110 a may have fastening regions 120 a, 130 a that have structural members which are able to physically engage with complementary structural members of respective fastening regions 130 b, 120 b of the component 110 b.
As shown in FIG. 1, an arcuate fastening member of the fastening region 120 a of the component 110 a is aligned with and coupled with a corresponding arcuate fastening member of the fastening region 130 b of the component 110 b; and similarly, an arcuate fastening member of the fastening region 130 a of the component 110 a is aligned with and coupled with a corresponding arcuate fastening member of the fastening region 120 b of the component 110 b. Accordingly, a suitable attachment coupling is formed between the components 110 a, 110 b.
In some cases, the fastening member(s) of a fastening region may extend entirely around the mating perimeter (e.g., circumference) defined by the coupling region of the component and, hence, be congruent with the coupling region. Though, in other cases, and as shown in FIG. 1, the respective fastening members of the fastening regions extend only partially along a distance of the mating perimeter of the coupling region. In some embodiments, this distance is an arcuate distance; though, it can be appreciated that for other embodiments, this distance is another type of distance (e.g., non-arcuate, straight, curved, jagged, angled, irregular, etc.) corresponding to the shape of the mating perimeter. Accordingly, other areas, which do not necessarily have structural fastening parts, may simply be brought together without mutual fastening.
For instance, each of the fastening regions 120 a, 130 a of component 110 a extend along an arcuate distance that is smaller than the circumference of the coupling region, and are aligned with complementary fastening regions 130 b, 120 b of component 110 b. Though, in between the fastening regions of the respective coupling regions are boundaries 140 a, 140 b that, in this embodiment, do not perform a fastening function. Thus, when the complementary components 110 a, 110 b are coupled together, the boundaries 140 a, 140 b may be brought closely together so as to be mutually facing one another while not mutually attached, yet forming a suitable enclosure for the container 100.
In this embodiment, when the components 110 a, 110 b are coupled to each other, a small gap 150 remains between the boundaries 140 a, 140 b. In some cases, as discussed further below, such a gap 150 may provide tolerance, for example, during manufacture and/or when the container 100 is subject to external stresses.
FIG. 2 illustrates one of the components of an embodiment of a container. Here, the component 110 has a shell 112 and a coupling region 114 (shown in FIG. 2 to be facing in a downward direction). The coupling region 114 has features that permit the component 110 to be coupled to another identically structured and complementary coupling region of another component. As shown, a substantial portion of the shell 112, up to the coupling region 114, extends in a radially symmetric manner, about a longitudinal axis A.
In some embodiments, the component 110 may be coupled to another component to form a suitably enclosed container, along a transverse plane P, as shown in FIG. 2. For embodiments where the container is substantially spherical, the transverse plane P may effectively extend along the equator of the sphere, dividing the enclosure formed by the container into halves.
As further shown in FIG. 2, the coupling region 114 includes a first fastening region 120, a second fastening region 130 and a boundary 140 that extends between the first and second fastening regions 120, 130.
The boundary 140 includes transverse surfaces 142, 146 that extend in a direction substantially parallel to the transverse plane P. As depicted, the transverse surface 142 is recessed or otherwise offset back from the transverse plane P, and the transverse surface 146 is offset in a direction opposite that of the transverse surface 142, extending past the transverse plane P. The boundary 140 also includes transition surfaces 144, 148 that extend between respective transverse surfaces 142, 146 and the transverse plane P. For certain embodiments, such surfaces may provide a contour for the coupling region 114 that is complementary in structure to an identical coupling region, for example, of an identical component. Though, it can be appreciated that boundaries of coupling regions may have other suitable configurations.
In this embodiment, the first fastening region 120 includes a wall 122 and a fastening member 124 that is located adjacent to the wall 122. In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, the fastening member 124 extends from the transverse surface 142 of the boundary 140 and, similarly to the transverse surface 142, is offset from the transverse plane P along a direction extending parallel to the longitudinal axis A (shown in FIG. 2 to be upward relative to the transverse plane P).
In some embodiments, and as shown, the wall 122 may have a thickness that is greater than the thickness of the shell 112, which extends away from the coupling region 114. Accordingly, the wall 122 may provide a suitable amount of additional mechanical support for the component during manufacture and use.
In various embodiments, during coupling of two suitable components to form an enclosed container, to accommodate engagement of the fastening member 124 with a complementary fastening member 134 or other part, the wall 122 may be subject to a variety of stresses. For example, for components to be coupled together, the wall 122 may be repeatedly deflected or otherwise flexed outward and/or inward. Accordingly, it may be preferable for the wall 122 to be able to suitably withstand repeated stresses and strains, while maintaining a sufficient amount of structural support for the container.
Similar to the first fastening region 120, the second fastening region 130 includes a wall 132 and a fastening member 134 located adjacent to the wall 132. As also shown in this embodiment, the fastening member 134 extends from the transverse surface 146 of the boundary 140 and is offset from the transverse plane P along a direction extending parallel to the longitudinal axis A (shown in FIG. 2 to be downward relative to the transverse plane P).
Also similar to that of the wall 122 of the first fastening region 120, the wall 132 may provide mechanical support for the component during manufacture and use. Otherwise, particularly when subject to repeated stresses and strains (e.g., back and forth deflection during attachment and detachment of the components), portions of the component may be more prone to breakage or failure.
As further discussed herein, for various embodiments, the first and second fastening regions 120, 130 may extend only partially around the circumference of the component 110, as defined by the coupling region 114. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the fastening regions 120, 130, including fastening members 124, 134, may be located on opposite sides of the component 110, and the surfaces of the boundary 140 may be located in between the fastening regions. That is, the portion of the boundary 140 located in between the fastening regions 120, 130 lacks a fastening member. Accordingly, when separate components are coupled together via the fastening members 124, 134, the boundary 140 of the component 110, including surfaces 142, 144, 146, 148, may be constructed to remain adjacent to a boundary of the opposing complementary component, with or without mutual contact therebetween.
As noted above, the surfaces 142, 144, 146, 148 of the boundary 140 may be shaped so as to provide a sufficient degree of closure of the component 110 with another similarly shaped and complementary coupling region of another component. Surfaces of the boundary 140 may also extend along, or substantially parallel to, the transverse plane P defined by the coupling of the component 110 with another component.
As shown in FIG. 2, the transverse surface 142 may extend substantially parallel to the transverse plane P, and be offset a distance D₁from the transverse plane P. The transverse surface 142 may then extend toward a transition surface 144 which provides a surface curvature that reaches the point of the component 110 where the longitudinal axis A and the transverse plane P intersect.
The transition surface 144 may be shaped in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the transition surface 144 may be curved in shape so as to have a suitable radius of curvature R₁.
On the opposing side of the coupling region 114, closer to the fastening region 130, the transverse surface 146 may be offset a distance D₂from the transverse plane P. Similar to that with respect to the opposing transverse surface 142, the transverse surface 146 may extend toward a transition surface 148 that provides a surface curvature that reaches the point of intersection between the longitudinal axis A and the transverse plane P.
The transition surface 148 may have any suitable shape. In some embodiments, similar to the transition surface 144, the transition surface 148 may be curved in shape and have a suitable radius of curvature R₂.
In various embodiments, the radius of curvature R₁of the transition surface 144 is smaller, equal to, or greater than the radius of curvature R₂of the transition surface 148. As discussed further below, the transition surfaces 144, 148 may be shaped so as to provide for a slight gap between components when coupled together.
FIG. 3 shows two identical components 110 a, 110 b of the container 100, each positioned so that coupling regions 114 a, 114 b, identical and complementary to one another, are mutually facing one another. That is, the first fastening member 124 a of the first component 110 a is positioned so as to face, and be in alignment with, the second fastening member 134 b of the second component 110 b; and the second fastening member 134 a of the first component 110 a is positioned so as to face, and be in alignment with, the first fastening member 124 b of the second component 110 b.
Similarly, the transverse surface 142 a and transition surface 144 a of the first component 110 a each align with the corresponding transverse surface 146 b and transition surface 148 b of the second component 110 b. Also, the transverse surface 142 b of the second component 110 b is aligned with the corresponding transverse surface 146 a of the first component 110 a, and the transition surface 144 b of the second component 110 b is aligned with the corresponding transition surface 148 a of the first component 110 a.
Accordingly, when the components 110 a, 110 b are fitted together (e.g., via pressing) along the direction indicated by the straight solid arrows shown in FIG. 3, the container 100, as illustratively depicted in FIG. 4, is assembled. As further shown, the first and second components 110 a, 110 b are coupled along the transverse plane P where contours of respective surfaces facing one another are complementary. Here, upon coupling of the first and second components 110 a, 110 b, the transition surfaces of the coupling regions form a substantially S-shaped curvature about the transverse plane P.
As discussed above, for some embodiments, certain portions of respective coupling regions of the components 110 a, 110 b may be slightly recessed such that when they are brought closer together for the fastening members to be mutually engaged, a suitably sized gap 150 may remain. For example, as noted above, the transverse surface 142 a may be formed at a distance D₁from the transverse plane P, and the transverse surface 146 b, which complements the surface 142 a, may be formed at a distance D₂from the transverse plane P. In this embodiment, to ensure that a gap will remain between the transverse surfaces 142 a and 146 b, the distance D₁may be greater than the distance D₂.
Further, in some embodiments, as illustrated here, the transition surface 144 a may have a comparatively sharper bend than the complementary transition surface 148 b. For example, in some cases, the radius of curvature R₁of the transition surface 144 a may be smaller than the radius of curvature R₂of the transition surface 148 b. Accordingly, upon coupling of the components 110 a, 110 b together, due to the variation in curvature of the transition surfaces 144 a and 148 b, a suitable gap may remain therebetween.
In some cases, as noted above, the gap 150 may provide for an appropriate degree of tolerance during manufacturing and use. For example, when a portion of one or more surfaces 142, 144, 146, 148 of one or both of the components 110 extend further out than otherwise desired, components of a container may prone to impinging one another. When appropriate portions of surfaces 142, 144, 146, 148 are recessed to an extent that the connection of components permits a slight gap 150 to remain, such impingement may be avoided. Though, it may be desirable for the respective surfaces 142, 144, 146, 148 to extend out sufficiently for structural integrity of the container and/or such that material stored within the container does not leak or otherwise fall out when components are coupled together.
Components 110 a, 110 b may be coupled together via any suitable arrangement. In some embodiments, respective fastening members of the components may be constructed so as to have complementary interlocking features.
For example, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5D, the fastening regions 120 a, 130 a of the component 110 a may have fastening members 124 a, 134 a each with a head 125 a, 135 a and a recess 126 a, 136 a. The fastening regions 130 b, 120 b of the component 110 b may have complementary fastening members 134 b, 124 b each with a head 135 b, 125 b and a recess 136 b, 126 b. Here, the respective heads 125 a, 135 a of the fastening members 124 a, 134 a are shaped for insertion into complementary shaped recesses 136 b, 126 b of the fastening members 134 b, 124 b. Similarly, the respective heads 135 b, 125 b of the fastening members 134 b, 124 b are shaped for insertion into complementary recesses 126 a, 136 a.
As noted above, and referring to FIGS. 5A-5B, the heads 125 a, 135 b may have respective surfaces that are shaped to accommodate mutual engagement of the fastening members 124 a, 134 b. For example, further to the heads 125 a, 135 b being able to fit within corresponding recesses 136 b, 126 a, as shown, the head 135 b may have a tapered surface that facilitates engagement and interlocking with the other head 125 a. Accordingly, when the components 110 a, 110 b are pressed together, the head 135 b slides past the corresponding head 125 a, resulting in entry of the head 135 b into the recess 126 a and entry of the head 125 a into the recess 136 b.
In some cases, one or both of the fastening members 124 a, 134 b deflect slightly away from one another as the respective heads 125 a, 135 b slide past each another, to accommodate mutual engagement thereof. For instance, the fastening member 134 b may deflect inward and/or the fastening member 124 a may deflect outward upon coupling therebetween.
FIG. 5B depicts components 110 a, 110 b coupled together. That is, fastening members 124 a, 134 b are placed in a locked configuration where the head 125 a is situated within the recess 136 b, and the head 135 a is situated within the recess 126 a. As the fastening member 134 b deflects inward and/or the fastening member 124 a deflects outward, the fastening members 124 a, 134 b may be slightly out of their natural equilibrium position. Hence, the fastening member 124 a may be biased inward and the fastening member 134 b may be biased outward, toward each other, resulting in pressing of the underside of each of the heads 125 a, 135 b against one another, providing a sufficient amount of frictional force to maintain closure of the container 100.
Accordingly, in this embodiment, uncoupling of the fastening members 124 a, 134 b and, hence, the components 110 a, 110 b, may involve pushing and/or pulling the fastening members 124 a, 134 b away from one another to disengage the surfaces thereof. Once the undersides of the respective heads 125 a, 135 b are clear of each other, the components 110 a, 110 b may be more easily separated or otherwise pulled apart.
FIG. 5C shows two identical components 110 a, 110 b of the container 100, each incorporating the fastening members shown in FIGS. 5A-5B. The components 110 a, 110 b are positioned so that identical and complementary coupling regions 114 a, 114 b are mutually facing and aligned with one another. When the components 110 a, 110 b are pressed and fitted together along the direction indicated by the straight solid arrows, the container 100, as illustratively depicted in FIG. 5D, is assembled.
It can be appreciated that the separate components may be coupled together by any suitable method. For instance, interlocking fastening members as discussed above and shown in the figures may be used to hold the complementary components together. Or, fastening members may couple via one or more other appropriate methods. For example, mutually complementary fastening members of the components may be coupled through an interference fit, snap fit, slotted arrangement, a protrusion biased into a corresponding recess, a threaded arrangement, bayonet-type configuration, etc.
As shown in FIG. 4, the fastening member 124 a defines a space within which the corresponding fastening member 134 b may be positioned, upon coupling therebetween. Accordingly, the fastening members 124 a, 134 b may have structural features that provide for mutual attachment and detachment. Similarly, the fastening members 134 a, 124 b on the opposite side of the coupling regions 114 a, 114 b may also be structurally configured for attachment and detachment of the respective components 110 a, 110 b.
As discussed above, the thickness of the wall of each of the components may suitably vary, within and between components. For example, as further shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, the thickness t₁of the respective walls of the shells 112 a, 112 b may be smaller than the thickness t₂of the wall at a portion of the fastening region 120 a and the thickness t₃of the wall at a portion of the fastening region 130 b. That is, the thicknesses t₂, t₃of the wall(s) at the fastening regions 120 a, 130 b of the first and second components 110 a, 110 b may be greater than the thickness t₁of the wall(s) of the components 110 a, 110 b away from the respective coupling regions.
As discussed above, an increased thickness of the walls at the fastening regions may provide enhanced mechanical support than would otherwise be the case for comparatively smaller thickness(es). Accordingly, relatively thicker fastening regions may be able to withstand increased repetition and levels of mechanical stress/strain applied thereto. Thus, when portions of the components are repeatedly deflected, for example, during coupling and uncoupling therebetween, fastening regions having relatively thick walls may be less prone to incurring damage or failure.
In some embodiments, it may be preferable for fastening regions, and fastening members thereof, to extend only partially along the coupling region. That is, for certain embodiments, the angle θ of the arcuate distance of the respective coupling region along which a fastening region extends may be less than 180 degrees. While possible for some embodiments, it is not necessary for a fastening region to extend the entire distance around a coupling region of a component. For instance, in some cases, when fastening regions extend only partially around the distance defined by a coupling region of a component, fewer structural complexities are likely to arise. For example, with smaller fastening regions, there may be less potential for the component to become dislodged pre-maturely or improperly from the mold during manufacture thereof.
For example, referring back to FIG. 1, the fastening regions 120 a, 130 a of component 110 a extend around an arcuate distance smaller than the circumference of the container 100, as defined by the transverse plane P. Similarly, the fastening regions 120 b, 130 b of component 110 b extend around the same arcuate distance of the container 100 as that of the fastening regions 120 a, 130 a, for alignment and coupling therewith.
As further shown, in this embodiment, each of the fastening regions 120 a, 130 a, 120 b, 130 b extends a suitable distance along the respective coupling regions; for example, an arcuate distance defined by an angle θ extending along the transverse plane P of the container 100, along which the components 110 a, 110 b are coupled. In some embodiments, a fastening region of a component for containers in accordance with the present disclosure may extend along an arcuate distance along the transverse plane of the container 100 defined by an angle θ of less than 180 degrees, less than 150 degrees, less than 120 degrees, less than 90 degrees, less than 60 degrees, less than 30 degrees, greater than 30 degrees, greater than 60 degrees, greater than 90 degrees, greater than 120 degrees, greater than 150 degrees, or greater than 180 degrees. Angles through which a fastening region of a container component extends may fall within ranges bounded by any of these limits, or outside of the above noted ranges. For example, the angle θ through which each of the fastening members 120 a, 130 a, 120 b, 130 b extends along the circumference of the container 100 may be approximately 30 degrees, 40 degrees, 50 degrees, 60 degrees, 70 degrees, 80 degrees, 90 degrees, etc.
Though, it can be appreciated that other arrangements are possible. For instance, in some embodiments, the fastening regions of respective components may extend completely around the circumference defined by the coupling regions, along the transverse plane of the container. Or, the respective distances around which the fastening regions extend may suitably vary. For example, in some embodiments, the distance that the fastening region 120 a extends along the circumference, or mating perimeter, of the coupling region may be greater, equal to, or less than the distance that the fastening region 130 a extends, at another location along the circumference, or mating perimeter, of the coupling region (e.g., located on the opposite side of the component 110 a). Accordingly, the fastening region 130 b of the component 110 b may extend a distance that is complementary to that of fastening region 120 a of the respective component 110 a, and similarly for the complementary fastening regions 120 b, 130 a.
Components of various embodiments of the present disclosure may have any suitable shape. In some embodiments, one or more cross-sections of a component for a container along a transverse direction may be circular, elliptical, polygonal (e.g., hexagonal, octagonal, rectangular, square, etc.), or any other appropriate shape. In some cases, the overall shape of a component may be such that the shape of its cross-section may change along its contour. Or, the shell of the component may have an irregular shape.
In some embodiments, a spherical container may be beneficial for applications where several containers are grouped together and it may be preferable for the shape of the container to be uniform. For example, when multiple containers are supplied within a vending machine, it may be desirable for the containers to be uniform in shape, regardless of their orientation, so that they can be consistently installed, processed and dispensed from the machine. Spherical or other relatively round-shaped containers may provide a suitable degree of uniformity in shape. Such uniformity may reduce the likelihood that the container will become trapped or wedged in an undesirable manner, for example, between machine parts of a vending machine. Though, it can be appreciated that other container shapes (e.g., non-spherical) may be employed.
While for some embodiments, containers include components that are substantially identical in structure, it can be appreciated that for other embodiments, the components need not be identical. In certain embodiments, separate components of a container may include coupling regions that are identical and complementary to one another, allowing the components to be mutually attached, yet other regions of the components may differ in structure.
For instance, one of the components may define a volume that is larger or different in shape as compared to the other component. As an example, one of the components of the container may be hemispherical in shape, similar to the component shown in FIGS. 1-4, and another of the components may have an elongated shape, similar to one of the components depicted in FIGS. 6-8. Yet, the coupling regions of the components may be substantially identical and complementary to one another, allowing for mutual attachment thereof.
In addition to many different shapes, containers may be formed from any of a number of different materials such as polyolefins, polystyrenes, polyacrylics, polyesters, polyethers, plastics, blends, copolymers, other suitable materials, and combinations thereof. Containers may also be formed of environmentally friendly materials such as recycled plastics or renewable cellulose composites.
FIGS. 6-9B shows another illustrative embodiment of a container 100. As shown, several of the features of this container are similar to the container depicted in FIG. 1, yet this container is elongated along the longitudinal axis A in comparison to the container shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 6 shows the container 100 with components 110 a, 110 b where each of the components have the same overall structure. The components 110 a, 110 b are also shaped so as to be able to suitably couple with each another to form an enclosure.
FIG. 7 shows two identical components 110 a, 110 b of the container 100 where respective coupling regions 114 a, 114 b are facing and mutually aligned with each other. Here, the fastening region 120 a of the first component 110 a is aligned with the corresponding fastening region 130 b of the second component 110 b; and the fastening region 130 a of the first component 110 a is aligned with the first fastening region 120 b of the second component 110 b. In addition, complementary transverse surfaces, as well as transition surfaces, of the boundaries of each of the components 110 a, 110 b are appropriately aligned with each other.
As a result, the components 110 a, 110 b may be pressed and fitted together along the direction indicated by the straight solid arrows, so as to assemble the container 100, as illustratively shown in FIG. 8. As shown, the components 110 a, 110 b are coupled along the transverse plane P, where complementary surfaces of the components facing one another are coupled or otherwise positioned adjacent one another.
FIGS. 9A-9B depict an illustrative embodiment where components 110 a, 110 b are interlocked together via fastening members 124 a, 134 b. Similar to that shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, the fastening member 124 a includes a head 125 a and a recess 126 a, complementary to the fastening member 134 b, which includes a head 135 b, shaped to fit in the recess 126, and a recess 136 b, which accommodates placement of the head 124 a.
The manner in which the fastening members 124 a, 134 b are engaged is similar to that described with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, the fastening member 134 b may deflect inward and/or the fastening member 124 a may deflect outward as the head 125 a is situated within the recess 136 b and the head 135 a is situated within the recess 126 a. When displaced from their respective equilibrium positions, such deflection may cause the fastening members 124 a, 134 b to be biased toward one another, resulting in relatively strong coupling therebetween.
FIGS. 10A-10C depict another illustrative embodiment of a container 100. Here, similar to that shown in FIGS. 6-8, the container 100 is elongated along the longitudinal axis A. Though, this container 100 has a hexagonal cross-section along a transverse direction. Further, the surface of each of the components 110 a, 110 b tapers inward as it extends closer to the ends thereof. As noted above, it can be appreciated that suitable components of containers in accordance with the present disclosure may have other appropriate shapes and structures.
As shown in FIG. 10A, the components 110 a, 110 b of the container 100 are duplicate in structure. Though, in accordance with the present disclosure, it can be appreciated that it is not required for components of the container to be identical in structure. The components 110 a, 110 b have coupling regions that are substantially identical and complementary to one another, each configured for mutual attachment to form an enclosure.
FIG. 10A depicts the components 110 a, 110 b facing each other such that the fastening region 120 a of the first component 110 a is aligned with the corresponding fastening region 130 b of the second component 110 b; and the fastening region 130 a of the first component 110 a is aligned with the corresponding fastening region 120 b of the second component 110b. The boundaries 140 a, 140 b are also aligned such that surfaces thereof are substantially flush upon coupling of the components 110 a, 110 b to form the enclosure.
As illustrated, a transverse plane P defines each half of the container 100. The fastening member 134 b extends away from the transverse plane P, and further includes a head 135 b that is shaped so as to couple with a complementary recess of a corresponding fastening member 124 a. Similarly, on the opposite side, the fastening member 134 b extends away from the transverse plane P, and the head 135 a is able to couple with the recess 126 b of the fastening member 124 b.
Accordingly, the components 110 a, 110 b may be fitted together to assemble the container 100, as depicted in FIGS. 10B and 10C. As shown, the components 110 a, 110 b are coupled along the transverse plane P, and held together on one side via complementary fastening members 124 a, 134 b and on another side via fastening members 134 a, 124 b.
Embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure may be used for any suitable application for holding objects within an enclosure. In some embodiments, containers described herein may be used as dispensing capsules, such as capsules that are employed in vending machines, or small packages (e.g., Easter eggs, toy boxes, vessels, etc.) that can be easily opened and closed. For example, one or more objects may be temporarily stored or otherwise held within the enclosure provided by a container, which may, in turn, be supplied within a vending machine. Such objects may include toys, food (e.g., snacks, drinks, non-perishables, confectionaries, etc.), computing equipment (e.g., headphones, cables, charging devices, ear buds, flash drives, etc.), articles of entertainment (e.g., CDs, DVDs, etc.), or any other suitable items.
Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is to be appreciated various alterations, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. For example, the devices described herein may be adapted for use in medical or non-medically related applications. Such alterations, modification, and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure, and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way of example only.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A container for holding an object, comprising:

a first component having a first coupling region and a shell defining a first half of an enclosure; and

a second component having a second coupling region substantially identical and complementary to the first coupling region and a shell defining a second half of the enclosure, wherein the first and second components are constructed and arranged to couple with one another along the identical and complementary first and second coupling regions to form the enclosure for the object, and wherein, when assembled, the first and second coupling regions extend perpendicular to a transverse plane defined between the first and second components.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the first component and the second component each have a substantially hemispherical shape such that, upon assembly of the first and second components together, the enclosure is substantially spherical.

3. The container of claim 1, wherein a cross-section of the first component and the second component is circular or elliptical.

4. The container of claim 1, wherein a cross-section of the first component and the second component is polygonal.

5. The container of claim 1, wherein, upon coupling of the first and second components with one another, the identical and complementary first and second coupling regions define a mating perimeter that extends along a transverse plane that defines two halves of the container.

6. The container of claim 5, wherein the mating perimeter comprises a circumference.

7. The container of claim 5, wherein each of the first and second coupling regions include a first fastening member and a second fastening member, the first fastening member of the first coupling region constructed and arranged to engage with the second fastening member of the second coupling region, and the second fastening member of the first coupling region constructed and arranged to engage with the first fastening member of the second coupling region.

8. The container of claim 7, wherein the first fastening member of the first coupling region is constructed and arranged to form an interlocking configuration with the second fastening member of the second coupling region, and the second fastening member of the first coupling region is constructed and arranged to form an interlocking configuration with the first fastening member of the second coupling region.

9. The container of claim 7, wherein the first and second fastening members of each of the first and second coupling regions extend along a distance smaller than the mating perimeter defined by the first and second coupling regions.

10. The container of claim 9, wherein at least one of the first fastening member and the second fastening member of the first or second coupling region extends along an arcuate distance defined by an angle of less than 180 degrees.

11. The container of claim 10, wherein the angle defining the arcuate distance of the at least one of the first fastening member and the second fastening member of the first or second coupling region is between 30 degrees and 90 degrees.

12. The container of claim 7, wherein at least one of the first fastening member and the second fastening member of the first or second coupling region is offset from the transverse plane along a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the container.

13. The container of claim 12, wherein the first fastening member is offset in a first direction from the transverse plane along the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container and the second fastening member is offset from the transverse plane of the container in a second direction opposite the first direction.

14. The container of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second coupling regions include a first transverse surface and a second transverse surface, and wherein at least one of the first transverse surface and the second transverse surface of the first or second coupling region is offset from a transverse plane defining two halves of the container along a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the container.

15. The container of claim 14, wherein the first transverse surface is offset in a first direction from the transverse plane along the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container and the second transverse surface is offset from the transverse plane of the container in a second direction opposite the first direction.

16. The container of claim 14, wherein a portion of at least one of the first and second transverse surfaces of the first or second coupling region is substantially parallel to the transverse plane of the container.

17. The container of claim 14, wherein, upon coupling of the first and second components, a gap remains between the first transverse surface of the first coupling region and the second transverse surface of the second coupling region.

18. The container of claim 14, wherein each of the first and second coupling regions includes a first transition surface extending between the first transverse surface and the transverse plane of the container and a second transition surface extending between the second transverse surface and the transverse plane of the container, and wherein the radius of curvature of the first transition surface is smaller than a radius of curvature of the second transition surface.

19. The container of claim 18, wherein the first transition surface and the second transition surface form a substantially S-shaped curvature.

20. The container of claim 18, wherein, upon coupling of the first and second components, a gap remains between the first transition surface of the first coupling region and the second transition surface of the second coupling region.

21. The container of claim 1, wherein a thickness of a wall of the first component at the first coupling region is greater than a thickness of the wall of the first component away from the first coupling region, and a thickness of a wall of the second component at the second coupling region is greater than a thickness of the wall of the second component away from the second coupling region.

22. The container of claim 1, wherein the first and second components are substantially identical in structure.

23. A container for holding an object, comprising:

a first component having a first coupling region and a shell defining a first half of an enclosure, the first coupling region having a first fastening member and a second fastening member; and

a second component having a second coupling region substantially identical and complementary to the first coupling region and a shell defining a second half of the enclosure, the second coupling region having a third fastening member and a fourth fastening member, wherein the first fastening member is constructed and arranged to engage with the third fastening member and the second fastening member is constructed and arranged to engage with the fourth fastening member, to form the enclosure for the object, wherein the first and second fastening members extend along a distance smaller than a mating perimeter, defined by the first and second coupling regions, that extends along a transverse plane defining two halves of the container, and wherein, when assembled, the first, second, third and fourth fastening members extend perpendicular to the transverse plane.

24. The container of claim 23, wherein the first and second components are substantially identical in structure.

25-41. (canceled)