Modular system for inventory and shipping efficiency of packages
阅读说明:本技术 针对包装的库存及运输效率的模块化系统 (Modular system for inventory and shipping efficiency of packages ) 是由 S·克诺贝尔 A·马科维茨 A·冈萨雷斯 R·埃尔韦尔 C·格兰杰 C·平托 于 2018-04-30 设计创作,主要内容包括:本文中披露具有防儿童容器、托盘插入件以及托盘框架的模块化容器系统。本文中还披露使用该模块化系统的方法以及在容器中储存物质的方法。该容器具有容器基座及容器盖,并提供防儿童容器。使用者可通过挤压然后提升的顺序而自容器基座可释放地移除该容器盖。例如,该使用者挤压该容器基座的相对侧,以释放锁固机制并允许通过自该容器基座提升或拉出该容器盖来移除该盖。该模块化容器系统的该些组件是模块化的且可堆叠的。该模块化系统允许有组织地、高效地、可访问地储存该防儿童容器。该模块化容器系统还允许方便地计数、分类及处理该容器。(Disclosed herein are modular container systems having a child-resistant container, a tray insert, and a tray frame. Methods of using the modular system and methods of storing a substance in a container are also disclosed herein. The container has a container base and a container lid and provides a child-resistant container. The user can releasably remove the container lid from the container base by a squeeze-then-lift sequence. For example, the user squeezes the opposite sides of the container base to release the locking mechanism and allow the lid to be removed by lifting or pulling the container lid from the container base. The components of the modular container system are modular and stackable. The modular system allows for organized, efficient, accessible storage of the child-resistant container. The modular container system also allows for convenient counting, sorting and handling of the containers.)
1. A modular container system, comprising:
a tray frame;
a tray insert, wherein the tray frame is sized and configured to receive the tray insert; and
one or more child-resistant containers;
wherein the tray insert is sized and configured to receive the one or more child-resistant containers and
wherein the one or more child-resistant containers include a container base and a container lid.
2. The modular container system of claim 1, wherein the tray insert comprises a plurality of recessed portions, wherein each recessed portion is configured to receive a single child-resistant container.
3. The modular container system according to claim 2, wherein each recessed portion includes an identification mark.
4. The modular container system of claim 3, wherein the identification indicia is a number.
5. The modular container system of claim 4, wherein the plurality of recessed portions are numbered sequentially.
6. The modular container system of claim 2, wherein the tray insert has 2, 4, 9, 16, 20, 25, 36, 40, or 100 recessed portions.
7. The modular container system of claim 6, wherein the tray insert is configured to nest on top of another tray insert.
8. The modular container system of claim 6, wherein the tray insert is configured to be stacked on top of another tray insert having containers in substantially all of the recessed portion.
9. The modular container system of claim 1, wherein the tray insert comprises plastic.
10. The modular container system of claim 9, wherein the plastic is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, fluorinated ethylene propylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polystyrene, high impact polystyrene, or polyvinyl chloride.
11. The modular container system of claim 10, wherein the tray insert further comprises an antimicrobial additive.
12. The modular container system of claim 1, wherein the container lid comprises an annular sealing ring on an inner surface of the container lid.
13. The modular container system of claim 1, wherein the tray insert comprises a first locking mechanism disposed on a first side of the tray insert and a second locking mechanism disposed on a second side of the tray insert.
14. The modular container system of claim 13, wherein the first and second locking mechanisms comprise male and female connectors such that the tray insert is configured to reversibly connect with a second tray insert.
15. The modular container system of claim 1, wherein the tray frame comprises cardboard, plastic, glass, or a combination thereof.
16. The modular container system of claim 1, further comprising a tamper evident element.
17. The modular container system of claim 16, wherein the tamper-evident element is a seal, tape, or a combination thereof.
18. The modular container system of claim 1, further comprising an RFID tag.
19. The modular container system of claim 1, wherein the tray frame, the tray insert, the one or more child-resistant containers, or a combination thereof further comprises a writing surface compatible with a pen, pencil, or marker.
20. A child-resistant container comprising:
a container base including a closed bottom end, an open top end, a radially extending flange disposed on an outer surface of the container base, a first cap engagement element, and a second cap engagement element; wherein the first cap engagement element and the second cap engagement element are disposed on the outer surface of the container base, opposite each other, and between the open top end and the flange; and
a container lid comprising one or more base engagement elements located on an inner surface of the container lid, wherein each of the one or more base engagement elements is configured to engage and reversibly couple to the first lid engagement element and the second lid engagement element of the container base.
21. The child-resistant container of claim 20, wherein each of the one or more base-engaging elements of the container lid comprises an upper ridge row and a lower ridge row, and wherein the upper ridge row and the lower ridge row are configured to engage with the radially-extending flange, the first lid-engaging element, the second lid-engaging element, or a combination thereof.
22. The child-resistant container of claim 21, wherein the first cap engagement element and the second cap engagement element of the container base each comprise:
a raised surface for receiving and engaging the base engaging element, wherein the raised surface is substantially parallel to the flange;
a plurality of protuberances disposed between the raised surface and the flange; and
at least one groove located between the plurality of ridges, wherein the at least one groove is configured to receive the ridges of the underlying ridge row.
23. The child-resistant container of claim 22, wherein engagement of the container base with the container lid enables the one or more base engagement elements to be lockably secured with the first lid engagement element and the second lid engagement element, thereby substantially providing a child-resistant container when in the closed configuration.
24. The child-resistant container of claim 23, wherein the container base further comprises one or more anti-rotation locks disposed radially symmetrically on the outer surface between the first cap engagement element and the second cap engagement element.
25. The child-resistant container of claim 24 further comprising gripping indicia on the outer surface directly below the radial flange on the same side of the lid-engaging element of the container base.
26. The child-resistant container of claim 24, wherein the container lid comprises 4 base engagement elements.
27. The child-resistant container of claim 20, wherein the container lid further comprises a riser at a top end of the lid; and wherein the container base further comprises a receptacle defined by the recessed bottom surface of the base; wherein the raised portion of the lid is adapted to engage the receiving portion of the container base such that the child-resistant container can be stacked on another child-resistant container.
28. The child-resistant container of claim 27, wherein the receptacle comprises a plurality of stacking elements disposed along an outer edge of the receptacle.
29. The child-resistant container of claim 20, wherein the container base, the container lid, or both comprise a polymer.
30. The child-resistant container of claim 29, wherein the polymer comprises polypropylene, polypropylene copolymer, ultraclarified polypropylene, colored polypropylene, PET, PETE, polycarbonate, polystyrene, or a combination thereof.
31. The child-resistant container of claim 29, wherein the container lid further comprises an annular sealing ring on an inner surface of the top end of the lid.
32. The child-resistant container of claim 31, wherein the container is substantially air-tight, liquid-tight, light-resistant, temperature-resistant, moisture-resistant, anti-bacterial, tamper-resistant, or a combination thereof.
33. The child-resistant container of claim 32, wherein the container base further comprises an insert to define two or more compartments within the container base.
34. A method of affecting child-resistant closure of a container, comprising:
providing a child-resistant container including a container base and a container lid;
wherein the container base comprises a closed bottom end, an open top end, a radially extending flange disposed on an outer surface of the container base, a first cap engagement element, and a second cap engagement element;
wherein the first cap engagement element and the second cap engagement element are disposed on the outer surface of the container base, opposite each other, and between the open top end and the flange;
wherein the container lid comprises one or more base engagement elements on an inner surface of the lid, each configured to engage and reversibly couple to the at least one lid engagement element of the base;
sliding the container lid over the open end of the container base, wherein the first lid engagement element and the second lid engagement element engage and couple to the one or more base engagement elements.
35. The method of claim 34, wherein each of the one or more base engagement elements of the container lid comprises an upper ridge row and a lower ridge row, and wherein the upper ridge row and the lower ridge row are configured to engage with the radially extending flange, the first lid engagement element, the second lid engagement element, or a combination thereof.
36. The method of claim 35, wherein the first and second lid engagement elements of the container base each comprise:
a raised surface for receiving and engaging the base engaging element, wherein the raised surface is substantially parallel to the flange;
a plurality of protuberances disposed between the raised surface and the flange; and
at least one groove located between the plurality of ridges, wherein the at least one groove is configured to receive the ridges of the underlying ridge row.
37. The method of claim 36, wherein sliding the container lid over the open end of the container base enables the lower ridge row to slide over and couple with the raised surface of the lid engagement element, and wherein the ridges of the lower ridge row are received within the at least one groove on the container base.
38. The method of claim 37, further comprising removing the container lid by simultaneously applying an external compressive force of about 2 pounds to about 6 pounds on opposing sides of the container base and pulling the container lid away from the container base.
Technical Field
The present disclosure relates to modular container systems for storage and inventory systems, including child-resistant containers and methods of using the same.
Background
Containers for storing substances or materials that may be harmful to children are designed to prevent children from opening, but may be manipulated by adults (including the elderly) to access the substance. These "child-resistant" containers are commonly used for over-the-counter and prescription medications. Other child resistant containers are used for other household items that are toxic if swallowed or ingested, such as laundry detergents, cleaners. These systems are intended to prevent children from inadvertently accessing the contents of these containers.
Generally, child-resistant containers include a multi-step opening process or require multiple steps to be performed simultaneously. A certain degree of physical and mental dexterity is required to open such containers, making it difficult for children to access the contents therein. For example, it may be desirable to use a certain amount of pressure or force while performing a second action to open such a container, thereby preventing a child from being able to open and access the contents of the container.
The challenge in creating child-resistant containers is to make the containers sufficiently easy for the elderly and other individuals to use. For example, some child-resistant containers provide screw-on or pop-top closures, which, while effective for child-resistance, cause some degree of difficulty for individuals suffering from inflammation or arthritis of the wrist and finger joints.
Currently available child-resistant containers also often do not adequately protect the contents from degradation when exposed to environmental factors such as humidity, temperature, bacteria, or air.
In addition, most screw-top drug containers lack external features that facilitate counting, sorting, stacking, and efficient inventory management.
Accordingly, there remains a need for improved containers and systems for use by elderly or disabled persons while providing child-resistant features. Furthermore, there remains a need for containers in which the contents are protected to enhance shelf life, e.g., liquid-tight, gas-tight, or both. Finally, there remains a need for containers that can be adapted for efficient stacking and can be part of a larger storage and inventory system. Such features allow the containers to be used for automation of packaging and distribution centers. The container is part of a storage system to allow convenient storage, inventory conditioning, and bulk distribution.
Disclosure of Invention
The present invention relates to a modular container system. The modular container system generally has a tray frame, a tray insert, and a container. The components of the modular container system, as well as the system itself, are modular, including stackable assemblies that can be stacked upon one another, or a combination of stackable assemblies. The modular container system may be used as an inventory system.
The containers described herein may be part of such a modular container system. Embodiments of the container are configured to be child-resistant. The disclosed containers provide improved packaging and storage of substances or materials in a controlled environment, providing an environment such as airtight, liquid-tight, water-tight, moisture-controlled, light-controlled, or any combination thereof.
Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention relates to a modular container system. The modular container system includes a tray frame, a tray insert, and one or more child-resistant containers. The tray frame is sized and configured to receive the tray insert. The one or more child-resistant containers include a container base and a container lid. In some embodiments, the container lid further comprises an annular sealing ring on an inner surface of the container lid.
In some embodiments, the tray insert is sized and configured to receive the one or more child-resistant containers. The tray insert also includes a plurality of recessed portions, wherein each recessed portion is configured to receive a single child-resistant container. Each recessed portion includes an identification mark. For example, the identification mark is a number. The plurality of recessed portions are sequentially numbered, labeled or marked.
In some embodiments, the tray insert has 1, 2, 4, 9, 16, 20, 25, 36, 42, 64, 81, or 100 recessed portions in, for example, a 1 × 1, 2 × 2, 3 × 3, 4 × 4, 5 × 5, 6 × 6, 7 × 7, 8 × 8, 9 × 9, or 10 × 10 configuration.
In some embodiments, the tray insert includes a first locking mechanism disposed on a first side of the tray insert and a second locking mechanism disposed on a second side of the tray insert. The first and second locking mechanisms include a male connector and a female connector such that the tray insert is configured to reversibly connect with a second tray insert.
In some embodiments, the tray insert is configured to nest on top of another tray insert. The tray insert is also configured to be stacked on top of another tray insert having containers in substantially all of the recessed portions.
In some embodiments, the tray insert is plastic, recycled material, or other suitable material. For example, the plastic is polypropylene, fluorinated ethylene propylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polystyrene, high impact polystyrene, or polyvinyl chloride.
Other materials or additives may be added to the tray insert. For example, the tray insert further includes an antimicrobial additive.
In some embodiments, the tray frame is made of cardboard, plastic, glass, recycled material, or a combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the modular container system may include a tamper evident (tamper event) element. For example, the tamper evident element is a seal, tape, or a combination thereof. Further, the modular container system may include an RFID tag.
In some embodiments, each of the tray frame, the tray insert, the one or more child-resistant receptacles, or a combination thereof may include a writing surface compatible with a pen, pencil, or marker.
In some embodiments, the child-resistant container includes a container base and a container lid.
In some embodiments, the container base comprises a closed bottom end, an open top end, a radially extending flange disposed on an outer surface of the container base, a first lid engagement element, and a second lid engagement element; wherein the first and second lid engagement elements are disposed on the outer surface of the container base, opposite each other, and between the open top end and the flange.
In some embodiments, the first and second lid engagement elements of the container base each comprise: a convex surface for receiving and engaging the base engaging element; a plurality of protuberances disposed between the raised surface and the flange; and at least one groove located between the plurality of ridges.
In some embodiments, the raised surface is substantially parallel to the flange. In some embodiments, the at least one groove is configured to receive the ridges of the underlying ridge row.
In some embodiments, the container base further comprises one or more anti-rotation locks disposed radially symmetrically on the outer surface between the first lid engagement element and the second lid engagement element.
In some embodiments, the container base further comprises an insert to define two or more compartments within the container base.
In some embodiments, the container lid comprises one or more base engagement elements on an inner surface of the container lid, wherein each of the one or more base engagement elements is configured to engage and reversibly couple to the first and second lid engagement elements of the container base.
Each of the one or more base engagement elements of the container lid includes an upper ridge row and a lower ridge row, and wherein the upper and lower ridge rows are configured to engage with the radially extending flange, the first lid engagement element, the second lid engagement element, or a combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the container lid comprises 1, 2, 3, or 4 base engagement elements.
In some embodiments, engagement of the container base with the container lid enables the one or more base engagement elements to be lockably secured with the first and second lid engagement elements, thereby substantially providing a child-resistant container when in the closed configuration.
In some embodiments, the child-resistant container further comprises gripping indicia on the outer surface directly below the radial flange on the same side of the lid-engaging element of the container base.
In some embodiments, the container lid further comprises a lift located at a top end of the lid; and wherein the container base further comprises a receptacle defined by the recessed bottom surface of the base; wherein the raised portion of the lid is adapted to engage the receiving portion of the container base such that the child-resistant container can be stacked on another child-resistant container.
In some embodiments, the receptacle of the container base includes a plurality of stacking elements disposed along an outer edge of the receptacle.
In some embodiments, the container base, the container lid, or both comprise a polymer. For example, the polymer includes polypropylene, polypropylene copolymers, ultraclarified polypropylene, colored polypropylene, PET, PETE, polycarbonate, polystyrene, or combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, the container lid further comprises an annular sealing ring on an inner surface of the top end of the lid. In some embodiments, the child-resistant container is substantially air-tight, liquid-tight, light-resistant, temperature-resistant, moisture-resistant, antibacterial, tamper-resistant, or a combination thereof.
Another aspect of the invention includes a method of effecting child-resistant closure of a container. The method includes providing a child-resistant container including a container base and a container lid, and sliding the container lid over the open end of the container base, wherein the first and second lid engagement elements engage and couple to the one or more base engagement elements.
In some embodiments, the container base includes a closed bottom end, an open top end, a radially extending flange disposed on an outer surface of the container base, a first lid engagement element, and a second lid engagement element.
In some embodiments, the first and second lid engagement elements are disposed on the outer surface of the container base, opposite each other, and between the open top end and the flange.
In some embodiments, the container lid includes one or more base engagement elements on an inner surface of the lid, each of the one or more base engagement elements configured to engage and reversibly couple to the at least one lid engagement element of the base.
In some embodiments, each of the one or more base engagement elements of the container lid comprises an upper ridge row and a lower ridge row, and wherein the upper and lower ridge rows are configured to engage with the radially extending flange, the first lid engagement element, the second lid engagement element, or a combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the first and second lid engagement elements of the container base each comprise: a convex surface for receiving and engaging the base engaging element; a plurality of protuberances disposed between the raised surface and the flange; and at least one groove located between the plurality of ridges, wherein the at least one groove is configured to receive the ridges of the underlying ridge row.
In some embodiments, the raised surface is substantially parallel to the flange.
In some embodiments, sliding the container lid over the open end of the container base enables the lower ridge row to slide over and couple with the raised surface of the lid engagement element. In some embodiments, the ridges of the lower ridge row are received in the at least one groove on the container base.
In some embodiments, the method of affecting child-resistant closure of a container further comprises removing the container lid by simultaneously applying an external compressive force of about 2 pounds to about 6 pounds on opposing sides of the container base and pulling the container lid away from the container base.
Additional aspects of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows. The advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed.
Drawings
Other features and advantages of the claimed subject matter will become apparent from the following description of embodiments consistent with the claimed subject matter, which description should be taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert for a tubular container.
Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert for a 15D container.
Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert for a 45D container.
Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert for a 145D container.
Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert for a 25D container.
Fig. 6 shows a top view of an embodiment of the 25D tray insert of fig. 5.
Fig. 7 shows a bottom view of an embodiment of the 25D tray insert of fig. 5.
Fig. 8 shows a front view of an embodiment of the 25D tray insert of fig. 5.
Fig. 9 shows a side view of an embodiment of the 25D tray insert of fig. 5.
Fig. 10 shows a top view of the embodiment of the 25D tray insert of fig. 5 positioned in an embodiment of a tray frame.
Fig. 11A to E show side views of embodiments of child-resistant containers: child-resistant tubes (11A), 15D containers (11B), 25D containers (11C), 45D containers (11D), and 145D child-resistant tubes (11E).
Fig. 12 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a child-resistant tubular container having a container base and a container lid in an open configuration.
Fig. 13A to 13F show different views of an embodiment of the child-resistant container. FIG. 13A shows an exploded view of the container base and container lid; FIG. 13B shows a child-resistant container with a container base and a container lid in a closed configuration; 13C and 13D show side views of a child-resistant container having a container base and a container lid in a closed configuration; FIG. 13E shows a bottom view of the container base; fig. 13F shows a top view of the container base.
Fig. 14A-14B show side views of embodiments of container bases.
Fig. 15A to 15C show different views of an embodiment of a container lid. FIG. 15A shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a container lid. Fig. 15B shows a bottom view of an embodiment of a container lid. Fig. 15C shows a top view of an embodiment of a container lid.
Fig. 16A-16B show different views of an embodiment of a child-resistant container stacked on top of another child-resistant container. FIG. 16A shows a perspective view of two child-resistant containers stacked on top of one another; fig. 16B shows a side view of the two child-resistant containers stacked on top of each other.
Fig. 17 shows an embodiment in which the container base is located on top of the container lid.
Fig. 18 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a tray insert filled with an embodiment of a child-resistant tubular container in a 10 x 10 configuration.
Fig. 19 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a tray insert filled with an embodiment of a child-resistant container in a 6 x 6 configuration.
Fig. 20 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a tray insert partially filled with another embodiment of a child-resistant container in a 4 x 4 configuration.
Fig. 21 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a tray insert filled with another embodiment of a child-resistant container in a 3 x 3 configuration.
Fig. 22 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a tray insert filled with another embodiment of a child-resistant container in a 5 x 5 configuration.
Fig. 23 shows a perspective view of the embodiment of fig. 22 stacked on another tray insert filled with a child-resistant container, each in a 5 x 5 configuration.
Fig. 24 shows a top view of an embodiment of a tray insert partially filled with an embodiment of a child-resistant container in a 5 x 5 configuration.
Fig. 25A-25C show different side views (25A-25B) and cross-sectional views (25C) of an embodiment of a tray insert with an embodiment of a child-resistant container in a 5 x 5 configuration.
Fig. 26 shows an exploded view of an embodiment where the tray frame is on top of another tray frame.
FIG. 27 shows a perspective view of an embodiment in which tray frames are stacked on top of one another.
Fig. 28 shows an exploded view of one embodiment of a modular container system with a tray frame, tray insert, and child-resistant container.
Fig. 29 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a modular container system with a tray frame, a tray insert, and a child-resistant container.
Fig. 30 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a modular container system with a tray frame, a tray insert, and a child-resistant container.
Fig. 31 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a modular container system with a tray frame, a tray insert, and a child-resistant container.
Fig. 32 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a modular container system with a tray frame, a tray insert, and a child-resistant container.
Fig. 33 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a modular container system with a tray frame, a tray insert, and a child-resistant container.
Fig. 34A-34D show different views of an embodiment of a stacked modular container system having 5 tray frames, each tray frame having a tray insert filled with an embodiment of a child-resistant container. Fig. 34A shows a perspective view of the stacked modular container system; fig. 34B shows a side view of the stacked modular container system; fig. 34C shows another side view of the stacked modular container system; fig. 34D shows a cross-sectional view of the stacked modular container system.
Detailed Description
The present invention relates to a modular container system including a tray frame, a tray insert, and/or a child-resistant container. Aspects of the disclosure also include a storage system and an inventory system. Other aspects include methods of using the child-resistant container (e.g., for creating child-resistance and for storing or preserving materials). The modular container system may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of the invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.
As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "an element" includes two or more elements.
Ranges may be expressed herein as from one particular value, and/or to another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. It will also be understood that several values are disclosed herein, and that each value is disclosed herein as "about" that particular value in addition to the value itself. For example, if the value "10" is disclosed, then "about 10" is also disclosed. It is also understood that each unit between two particular units is also disclosed. For example, if 10 and 15 are disclosed, 11, 12, 13 and 14 are also disclosed.
The terms "about" and "at or about" as used herein mean that the amount or value in question may be some other value specified that is approximately or approximately the same. It is generally understood that, as used herein, unless otherwise indicated or inferred, it is a nominal value representing a ± 10% change. The term is intended to mean that similar values promote equivalent results or effects as recited in the claims. That is, it is to be understood that the quantities, dimensions, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger or smaller, as desired, to reflect tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art. In general, an amount, dimension, formulation, parameter or other quantity or characteristic is "approximate" or "approximate," whether or not explicitly stated as such. It should be understood that when "about" is used before a quantized value, the parameter also includes the particular quantized value itself, unless specifically stated otherwise.
As used herein, unless otherwise specifically stated, the terms "first," "second," "first portion," "second portion," and the like do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.
The term "optional" or "optionally" as used herein means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. For example, the phrase "optionally attached to a surface" means that it may or may not be attached to a surface.
Moreover, it should be understood that any methods set forth herein are not intended to be construed as requiring that their steps be performed in a particular order, unless expressly stated otherwise. Accordingly, no attempt is made to infer any particular order, unless the method claims actually recite an order to be followed by their steps or otherwise specifically state in the claims or descriptions that the steps are limited to a particular order. This applies to any possible non-explicit basis for interpretation, including: logical issues regarding the arrangement of steps or operational flows; obvious meanings derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of aspects described in the specification.
It should be understood that the modular container systems, materials, and devices disclosed herein have particular functionality. Specific structural requirements are disclosed herein for performing the disclosed functions, and it is to be understood that there are various structures which can perform the same functions associated with the disclosed structures, and which will generally achieve the same results.
Modular container system
The modular container system described herein generally has a tray frame, a tray insert, and a container. The components or assemblies of the modular container system, as well as the system itself, are modular. The components are stackable-they can be stacked on top of each other or combined with other components of the system. The modular container system may be used as an inventory system.
The containers described herein may be part of a modular container system. Embodiments of the container are configured to be child-resistant. The disclosed containers provide improved packaging and storage of substances or materials in a controlled environment, providing an environment such as airtight, liquid-tight, water-tight, moisture-controlled, light-controlled, or any combination thereof.
Tray insert
In some aspects of the present disclosure, a modular container system includes a tray insert. Referring to fig. 1-10, the tray insert is sized and configured to fit within a tray frame (described in detail below). Further, the tray insert is configured to specifically accommodate embodiments of child-resistant containers (described in detail below). It is also contemplated that the tray insert may accommodate more than one type (e.g., size) of child-resistant container. As described herein, the tray insert may have any number of recessed portions (i.e., the number of child-resistant containers it can accommodate). For example, the tray insert has 1, 2, 4, 9, 16, 20, 25, 36, 42, 64, 81, or 100 recessed portions in, for example, a 1 × 1, 2 × 2, 3 × 3, 4 × 4, 5 × 5, 6 × 6, 7 × 7, 8 × 8, 9 × 9, or 10 × 10 configuration.
Referring to fig. 1, the
Similarly, the tray insert 200 of fig. 2 has a plurality of recessed portions 210, each having an identifying indicia 211. The identification mark 211 is a number displayed on the bottom of each concave portion 210. The locking mechanisms 220, 230 are provided on opposite sides of the tray insert 200 and allow mating with another
The
The tray inserts of fig. 1-5 all have a universal locking mechanism to allow for mating between any tray insert regardless of the size of the recessed portion. Accordingly, the tray inserts are substantially similar or equal in length and/or width to allow for such mating.
Fig. 6 to 9 show further views of the
The
Fig. 10 shows the
Child-resistant container
Another aspect of the modular container system is a child-resistant container and a tubular container. Child-resistant containers and tubular containers are configured to store, preserve, and/or hold substances or materials as well as provide a child-resistant mechanism.
Generally, the child-resistant container described herein includes a container base and a container lid. The container base engages the container lid when the container is in the closed configuration. In the closed configuration, the container is substantially child-resistant, that is, the child cannot or will have difficulty removing the container lid from the container base.
The container base has a closed bottom end, an open top end, and an outer surface. Embodiments of the container (including the container base) are substantially symmetrical in shape.
The container base may have indicia on one or more sides of the container. The indicia may be used to grip the container base and/or to distinguish one side of the container from another. The indicia may be slightly raised, for example, from the outer surface of the container base. The user squeezes or presses inward at the marked location while pulling the container lid upward to remove the container lid from the container base.
The radially extending flange is part of the base of the container. The flange structurally divides the container base into a lower body portion and an upper neck portion. The flange is adjacent and parallel to the top end of the container base. The flange increases child resistance of the container (e.g., to prevent a child from touching under the lid and prying open with fingernails/teeth). The flange structure and force ratio (force ratio) around a specific area of the container lid maintains an even distribution of the squeezing force, separates the lid from the base, and also prevents the lid from over-compressing the seal. The combination of the force of the flange and the retention feature creates the appropriate amount of compression.
The container lid has an outer surface and an inner surface. The container lid also has an open bottom end (container base receiving end) and a closed top end. On the top end of the container lid, there is a shoulder, a ramp and a lift. The shoulders, ramps, and lifts allow stacking of container bases on top of the container lid (e.g., the containers are self-stacking) and allow stacking of tray inserts or tray frames on top of the container lid. The container lid may have indicia on the inner and/or outer surfaces.
The container lid may have an annular seal (e.g., an o-ring) in the inner surface at or near the top end of the lid. The annular seal may help provide a barrier between the container environment and the external environment. The material stored in the container may be sensitive to air, water, oxygen, light, ultraviolet light, temperature, bacteria, or combinations thereof.
The container lid has one or more base engagement elements. Each base engagement element is located on the interior surface of the container lid, e.g., on some or all four sides of the container lid. Each base-engaging element includes one or more rows of bumps, where each row has a plurality (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more) of bumps.
The ridges may be arranged in an upper ridge row and a lower ridge row. With a space between the two raised rows. The ridges are shaped so that they are slightly inclined. The protuberance is sized and configured to slide and fit into the groove of the cover engagement element.
The child-resistant feature of the container relates to the engagement of the container base with the container lid. The one or more lid-engaging elements are part of the base of the container. The lid-engaging elements consist of raised surfaces or lugs (ridges). The raised surface is adjacent and parallel to the top end of the container base. Directly above the radially extending flange and below the raised surface is a longitudinally extending ridge or ramp. The protuberance extends from at or near the raised surface to the flange. A groove is formed between two ridges (i.e., the space between the ridges is a groove). In addition to providing a tight fit with the container base, the ridges and grooves also provide guidance and alignment of the container lid. The lid engagement element prevents the container lid from being easily removed or improperly removed from the container base. Generally, the lid-engaging elements are located on two opposite sides of the container base. However, a single cap engagement element may be located on the container base (e.g., for a tubular container), or 3 or more cap engagement elements may be located on the container base.
Fig. 11A-11E show different embodiments of the child-resistant container and tube container described herein. The child-resistant
The child-resistant tubular container 1500 of fig. 12 has a container base 1520 and a container lid 1510. The container cover 1510 is attached to the container base 1520 by a hinge 1560. The container lid 1510 has a base engagement element 1505 located on the inner surface 1504 of the container lid 1510. The base engagement member 1505 may mate or engage with a lid engagement member 1530 located on the container base 1520.
The container base has an outer surface 1524, an open top end 1522, and a closed bottom end 1521, the bottom end 1521 serving as a receiving portion for receiving the container lid. The lid engagement member 1530 is disposed on the outer surface 1524 of the container base 1520 between the top end 1522 and the flange 1523. The radially extending flange 1523 acts as a physical stop when the container lid is seated on the container base. Texture or gripping markings 1540 and text 1541 on the outer surface 1524 assist a user in opening and closing the tubular container 1500.
The child-
The
The
Fig. 14A and 14B show additional features of one embodiment of a
Fig. 15A and 15B show internal views of the
Fig. 15C shows a top view of the
The child-resistant containers described herein are stackable, as shown in fig. 16A. That is, one
Similarly, fig. 17 shows the
As described herein, the container lid is configured to be associated with a container base. The container base forms a closure to contain the material and the container lid closes the open top end of the base. The container base and container lid may be comprised of plastic, plastic composites, reinforced plastic, metal composites, copolymer polypropylene, ultraclarified polypropylene, colored PP, PET, PETE, PS, PC, glass, or combinations thereof. The container base, the container lid, can be prepared, for example, from a combination of any of the following materials: polypropylene, high density polyethylene, polystyrene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polychlorotrifluoroethylene, phenolic resin, para-aramid, polyethylene terephthalate, polychloroprene, polyamide, polyacrylonitrile, copolyamide, aromatic polyester, poly-p-phenylene-2, 6-benzobisoxazole; glass, plexiglass, resin, wood, rubber, elastomeric rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, fluorinated ethylene propylene, vulcanized rubber, metal.
Tray insert and container
As described above, the modular container system includes a tray insert and a child-resistant container, each described in detail above. Fig. 18-22 show different embodiments of tray inserts (3120, 3220, 3320, 3420, and 3520) and child-resistant containers (3110, 3210, 3310, 3410, and 3510). For example, referring to fig. 20, in instances where the
Another aspect of the modular container system allows for stacking of tray inserts with containers on other tray inserts with containers. Referring to fig. 23, a stack of two tray insert/container "units" is shown. Although fig. 23 shows stacking of similar containers and tray inserts, any of the tray insert and child-resistant container embodiments disclosed herein can be stacked on another embodiment.
Fig. 24 shows a top view of
Fig. 25A-25C show side views of a tray insert/child-
Tray frame
Another part of the modular container system is the tray frame shown in fig. 26 and 27. The
Fig. 27 shows the tray frames 5110 and 5120 nested within one another forming a
The tray frame also has rounded feet or corners located on the bottom of the tray frame (see fig. 34B, 4091).
The present disclosure provides a single tray frame that universally fits a variety of tray inserts. Although of similar size, the tray inserts are unique to the type of container that it contains. Other embodiments include forming the tray frame and the tray insert as a single unit.
Other assemblies
The modular container system may include a tamper evident (tamper event) element. Tamper evident elements may be found on tray inserts, tray frames, and/or child resistant containers. For example, the tamper-evident element is a detachable component. The detachable component may include a seal, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof.
The modular container storage system may also include product identification, manufacturer instructions, RFID tags, NFC tags, bar codes, or combinations thereof.
In some aspects, the portions of the modular container system further comprise a writing surface compatible with a pen, pencil, or marker. In some aspects, the modular container system further includes space available for special material or surface applications to facilitate removal of labels and markings without leaving a residue.
In some aspects, the modular container storage system further comprises one or more sensors. For example, any sensor may be used in the modular container storage system, such as environmental sensors (e.g., humidity sensors, oxygen sensors, temperature sensors, barometric pressure sensors, light sensors), gyroscopes, accelerometers, GPS sensors, magnetometers, proximity sensors, fingerprint sensors, and retinal sensors.
Method of use and storage
The present disclosure relates to methods for packaging and/or storing materials. The packaging method includes providing a modular container system having a child-resistant container and directing material into the container. The method includes adding a child-resistant container to one or more tray inserts and then adding the one or more tray inserts into a tray frame.
The material being packaged may be a material that is sensitive to one or more environmental factors. Sensitivity includes, but is not limited to, air, water, oxygen, light, ultraviolet light, temperature, bacteria, or combinations thereof. For example, the material is a medicinal, nutritional, herbal material, plant material, food, animal-based product, plant-based product, or the like. Thus, some or all of the modular container system creates a substantially airtight seal, a liquid-tight seal, or both.
The cover engagement member and the base engagement member are configured to cooperatively engage in a locked position to releasably secure the container cover to the container base in a closed position, wherein the open section of the base is covered by the cover to inhibit access to the open cavity. Securing the container lid to the container base includes the steps of: sliding along the long axis of the container and pressing the container lid over the open end of the container base. The container is locked by the following means: the lid is slid and pressed over the raised surface of the container base until the audible noise is heard as well as a tactile click. In other words, the sides of the container lid must be pressed with sufficient force to overcome the resistance of the raised surface and then secured in a secure base-lid engagement so that one end of the plurality of ridges on the inside of the container lid abut against the raised surface. At the same time, one or more ridges will reside or fit within the groove of the container base lid-engaging element, and one or more ridges of the container base may reside between the ridges on the container lid. This creates a secure coupling of the base engagement element of the container lid and the lid engagement element of the container base. Additional grooves and ridges may be included to increase the difficulty or complexity of accessing the contents or using the container.
In some embodiments, the full coupling of the base engagement element and the lid engagement element is designed to release an audible signal, a snap sound, to let the operator know that the lid is securely located on the base, and thus the contained elements are securely located in the child-resistant container.
A visual signal is provided on the surface of the container corresponding to the position and direction of the force to be applied. For example, gripping indicia is provided on the surface of the container base to identify the side of the container base having the lid engagement element. The second indicia is provided on the cover, typically on a side that is not opposite, but adjacent to the side containing the cover engaging element. Which corresponds to the application of a pulling force on the container lid to disengage the lid from the base while holding the container base with the other hand.
In order to access the contents from the closed container, a predetermined amount of compressive force needs to be applied radially inward on two opposing sides of the base. The individual will press with a finger on two opposing sides of the base having the cover engaging element and marked with the gripping indicia to resiliently reduce the first width of the base along the compression axis to a second width to release the cover engaging element from the base engaging element. This protects the cover from pressure from the raised surfaces on the sides of the cover. In one aspect, a predetermined amount of force may be applied at a location on the opposite lid side adjacent to the lid engagement element. The indicia constitute a visual indicator for applying a compressive force to open the sides of the container. The container lid and container base can be decoupled from the closed position by pulling the container base and container lid axially away from each other along the long axis of the container. The pulling may occur after the engagement member is in the unlocked position. The predetermined amount of force is between about 1 pound to about 9 pounds, alternatively between about 2 pounds to about 8 pounds, about 2 pounds to about 6 pounds, and alternatively between 3 pounds to 5 pounds. The predetermined amount of force is at least about 4 pounds.
The lid engagement element and the base engagement element may be configured to disengage from the self-locking position to an unlocked position, wherein the container lid and the container base may be decoupled from the closed position to an open position such that the open cavity of the container may be accessed. To effect a change from the locked position to the unlocked position, a predetermined amount of compressive force is applied radially inward on two opposing sides of the base to resiliently reduce a first width of the base along the compression axis to a second width, wherein the second width is slightly less than the first width. In some aspects, a predetermined amount of force may be applied at locations on opposing base sides, wherein at least one side of the base includes a cover engagement element. The lid is decoupled from the base in the closed position by simultaneously applying a predetermined compressive force on two opposing sides of the base, at least one of which includes a lid-engaging element, and pulling the lid away from the base along the long axis, pulling the lid along the long axis of the container. In other aspects, the cover may be pulled by using a cover side corresponding to a position parallel to the expansion axis. In some aspects, the reduction is from a first width to a second width, wherein the second width is less than the first width and the second width elastically expands to the first width upon release of the pressure.
In various aspects, the present disclosure relates to containers and devices for storing restricted use substances. Consumer Product Safety Commission (Consumer Product Safety Commission;
CSPC, www.cspc.gov) for specialized child-resistant and geriatric packaging (seniorfriendly packaging; CRP) provides guidance for packaging medications and other controlled substances. The CSPC also has been under the 1970 Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA), 15U.S.C. § 1471-. Substances intended to be of limited use in this application include, but are not limited to, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, or federal regulated substances, nutraceuticals, or vitamins. Substances may be sensitive to environmental exposure and may decay, decompose, lose desirable properties after exposure, e.g. drugs, herbal products, plant products. The Substance for storage in the container of the present invention may include, but is not limited to, one or more components or drugs (https:// www.dea.gov/drug info/ds.shtml) classified by the U.S. agency of law of Controlled Substances (CSA) according to Table I, II, III or Table IV: (ii) a combination product containing less than 15 mg hydrocodone per dosage unit (Vicodin), ***e, methamphetamine, methadone, hydromorphone (Dilaudi), meperidine (Demerol), oxycodone (OxyContin), fentanyl, Dexedrine, Adderall, and Ritalin; less than 90 mg codeine per unit of dose (codeine-containing Tylenol), ketamine, anabolic steroids, testosterone; or products including Xanax, Soma, Darvon, Darvocet, Valium, Ativan, Talwin, Ambien, Tramadol.
The present disclosure provides a method of storing material in a child-resistant container. The method includes providing a child-resistant container comprising a container base having a lid-engaging element and a container lid having a base-engaging element, wherein the lid-engaging element is configured to cooperatively engage and reversibly couple to the base-engaging element; directing material into the base; and securing a lid over the base, wherein the lid engagement element engages and couples to the base engagement element to form the child-resistant container.
Fig. 28-34C show different embodiments of modular container systems having a tray frame, a tray insert, and one or more child-resistant containers. For example, fig. 28 is an exploded view of child-
Fig. 29 shows an embodiment of a
Fig. 30 shows another embodiment of a
Fig. 34A-34D show different views of one embodiment of the modular container system. Fig. 34A shows a perspective view of a stack of
Method of manufacturing a modular container system
The components described herein include, but are not limited to, the tray insert, child-resistant container, child-resistant tubular container, and the tray frame may be formed of plastic or any other suitable material. For example, any of the components of the modular container system may be plastic, cardboard, recycled materials, glass, metal alloys, combinations thereof, or other suitable materials. For example, suitable plastics include, but are not limited to, polypropylene copolymers, ultraclarified polypropylene, colored polypropylene, PET, PETE fluorinated ethylene propylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polystyrene, high impact polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, or combinations thereof.
Other materials or additives may be added to any of the components (e.g., tray insert, child-resistant container, tray frame). For example, antimicrobial additives may be added. Other additives may include oxidative degradable additives, as well as biodegradable material matrix additives, ultraviolet resistant additives, and antistatic additives.
Portions of the modular container system, such as the container base and/or the container lid, have uv protective or barrier materials. The container base and/or the container lid are composed of a material having complete opacity. A fully opaque or opaque material is described herein as being 100% opaque, wherein the material is opaque to light. In certain aspects, the base or the cover, or both, are composed of a material that is not completely opaque. Such materials may include properties having 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or 0% opacity, or any range therebetween. In certain embodiments, the container lid and/or base is completely opaque and light-blocking. In some aspects, the container lid and/or base is transparent, wherein the opacity is less than 100%. In some aspects, the container lid and/or base is transparent, wherein the opacity is about 10% or about 0%.
In various aspects, portions of the modular container system, such as the container lid and/or the container base, are protected by a removable sleeve. The removable sleeve may be opaque. The removable sleeve may be uv-resistant. In some aspects, the removable sleeve is moisture resistant. In some aspects, the removable sleeve is opaque. In some aspects, the removable sleeve includes surface markings for product identification, security notification, or any combination thereof.
The plastic may be injection molded, thermoformed, vacuum formed, or manufactured in any manner suitable for manufacturing the components described herein to achieve the desired functionality.
The teachings of all patents, published applications and references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.
While the present invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention encompassed by the appended claims.
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