阅读说明：本技术 具有模块化结构的用于颗粒材料的计量施配的设备 (Apparatus for metered dispensing of particulate material having a modular structure ) 是由 辛·斋 于 2018-04-11 设计创作，主要内容包括：提供一种用于颗粒材料的计量施配的设备。所述设备包含：容器单元,其具有限定储存室的基座；测量单元,其具有囊；保持单元,其可拆卸地联接到所述容器单元和测量单元；以及分割结构,其可调整地限定在此些单元之间。所述囊限定计量室,且所述保持单元包含环管部件,所述环管部件围绕所述容器单元和测量单元两者延伸以按彼此可成角度移位的方式保持所述容器单元和测量单元。所述容器单元和测量单元借此可互相移位以实现所述设备在计量配置和施配配置之间的选择性配置。所述计量配置中的所述分割结构被调整以打开所述储存室和计量室之间的连通以便在其间迁移颗粒材料。所述施配配置中的所述分割结构被调整以关闭此些室之间的连通并防止在其间迁移颗粒材料。(An apparatus for metered dispensing of particulate material is provided. The apparatus includes: a container unit having a base defining a storage chamber; a measurement unit having a bladder; a holding unit detachably coupled to the container unit and the measuring unit; and a partition structure adjustably defined between such cells. The bladder defines a metering chamber, and the holding unit includes a collar member extending around both the container unit and the measurement unit to hold the container unit and the measurement unit angularly displaceable relative to each other. The container unit and the measurement unit are thereby mutually displaceable to enable selective configuration of the apparatus between a metering configuration and a dispensing configuration. The dividing structure in the metering configuration is adapted to open communication between the storage chamber and the metering chamber for the migration of particulate material therebetween. The partition structure in the dispensing configuration is adapted to close communication between such chambers and prevent migration of particulate material therebetween.)

1. An apparatus for metered dispensing of particulate material, comprising:

a container unit having a base defining a storage chamber;

a measurement unit having a bladder defining a metering chamber;

a holding unit removably coupled to the container unit and measurement unit, the holding unit including a collar member extending around both the container unit and measurement unit to hold the container unit and measurement unit in an angularly displaceable manner relative to each other, whereby the container unit and measurement unit are mutually displaceable to enable selective configuration of the apparatus between a metering configuration and a dispensing configuration; and the number of the first and second groups,

a partition structure adjustably defined between the container unit and the measurement unit, the partition structure in the metering configuration being adapted to open communication between the reservoir chamber and the metering chamber so as to migrate particulate material therebetween, the partition structure in the dispensing configuration being adapted to close communication between the reservoir chamber and the metering chamber and prevent migration of particulate material therebetween.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bladder remains angularly displaceable relative to the holding unit and container unit.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the bladder includes a lower end portion formed with a peripheral flange extending radially outwardly therefrom, and the collar member of the retention unit is formed with an inner flange extending radially inwardly to capture the peripheral flange of the bladder to the container unit.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the partition structure comprises:

a dividing deck coupled to an upper end of the base, the dividing deck defining a first access opening in communication with the storage chamber; and the number of the first and second groups,

a secondary slice plane coupled to the bladder to partially enclose the metering chamber to define a second access opening in communication therewith, the secondary slice plane being angularly displaceable with the bladder to adjustably align the second access opening relative to the first access opening.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein:

the auxiliary slice plane slidably overlying a portion of the slice plane, the auxiliary slice plane including a leading edge and a trailing edge extending at an angular offset from one another, the auxiliary slice plane configured to completely cover the first access opening in the dispensing configuration; and the number of the first and second groups,

the dividing level includes stop members projecting upwardly therefrom and disposed adjacent to the first access opening, the leading and trailing edges of the auxiliary dividing level being stopped against opposite sides of the stop members when in the metering and dispensing configurations.

6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the retaining unit includes a threaded portion disposed along an interior sidewall surface of the collar member to threadably engage the base, the retaining unit including a ridge structure formed to protrude from the interior sidewall surface of the collar member to prevent over-tightening of the threaded portion to the base, the peripheral flange of the pocket thereby remaining slidably displaceable captured by the interior flange of the collar member.

7. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the retention unit includes a blocking lug protruding from an interior sidewall surface of the collar member for limiting axial advancement of the collar member and the container unit relative to one another, the blocking lug defining a wedge-shaped configuration having an upper lug surface and an angled blocking surface formed therebelow, the peripheral flange of the pocket being slidably displaceable disposed between the upper lug surface of the blocking lug and the interior flange of the collar member.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the retention unit includes a threaded portion disposed along the interior sidewall surface of the collar member below the blocking lug for threadably engaging the base, the blocking lug extending contiguously around the interior sidewall surface of the collar member to define an annular profile.

9. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein:

the holding unit comprises at least one knob protruding from an inner sidewall surface of the collar member;

the base of the container unit is formed with upper and lower bracket extensions extending radially outwardly therefrom to define a generally annular profile, the upper bracket extension having at least one notch formed therein providing clearance for the knob to pass therethrough for axial positioning between the upper and lower bracket extensions;

whereby said peripheral flange of said bladder is slidably displaceable captured between said upper bracket extension and said inner flange of said collar member; and the number of the first and second groups,

whereby, upon placement of said knob through said recess to be axially disposed between said upper and lower bracket extensions, said collar member is seated on said base, upon placement, said collar member is releasably locked to said base in an angularly displaceable manner to displace said knob from alignment with said recess.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the lower bracket extension extends radially beyond the upper bracket extension to support a bottom edge of the collar member when seated on the base.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, comprising a plurality of said knobs formed on said holding unit and a plurality of said notches formed in said upper bracket extension, respectively, wherein each said knob defines a wedge-shaped configuration having an upper ledge surface and an angled stop surface formed therebelow, said upper ledge surface retentively engaging a bottom of said upper bracket extension to releasably lock said collar member to said base.

12. An apparatus for metered dispensing of particulate material, comprising:

a container unit comprising a base defining a storage chamber and a first partition partially enclosing the storage chamber, the first partition extending around a first access opening in communication with the storage chamber;

a measurement unit comprising a bladder defining a metering chamber and a second partition partially enclosing the metering chamber, the second partition opposing the first partition and extending around a second access opening in communication with the metering chamber;

a holding unit removably coupled to the container unit and measurement unit, the holding unit including a collar member extending around both the container unit and measurement unit to hold the container unit and measurement unit in an angularly displaceable manner relative to each other, whereby the container unit and measurement unit are mutually displaceable to enable selective configuration of the apparatus between a metering configuration and a dispensing configuration;

wherein the bladder remains angularly displaceable relative to the holding unit and container unit; and the number of the first and second groups,

wherein the relative angular positions of the first and second dividing zones in the dosing configuration are mutually adjusted to at least partially align the first and second access openings so as to migrate particulate material therethrough between the storage chamber and the dosing chamber, the relative angular positions of the first and second dividing zones in the dosing configuration being mutually adjusted to fully offset the first and second access openings and prevent migration of particulate material therethrough between the storage chamber and the dosing chamber.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein:

the second partition slidably overlapping a portion of the first partition, the second partition including a leading edge and a trailing edge extending at an angular offset from one another, the second partition configured to completely cover the first access opening in the dispensing configuration; and the number of the first and second groups,

the first partition includes a stop member projecting upwardly therefrom and disposed adjacent to the first access opening, the leading and trailing edges of the auxiliary partition level being stopped against opposite sides of the stop member when in the metering and dispensing configurations.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the retaining unit includes a threaded portion disposed along an interior sidewall surface of the collar member to threadably engage the base, the retaining unit including a ridge structure formed to protrude from the interior sidewall surface of the collar member to prevent over-tightening of the threaded portion to the base, the peripheral flange of the pocket thereby remaining slidably displaceable captured by the interior flange of the collar member.

15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the retention unit includes a blocking lug protruding from an interior sidewall surface of the collar member for limiting axial advancement of the collar member and the container unit relative to one another, the blocking lug defining a wedge-shaped configuration having an upper lug surface and an angled blocking surface formed therebelow, the peripheral flange of the pocket being slidably displaceable disposed between the upper lug surface of the blocking lug and the interior flange of the collar member.

16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

the holding unit comprises at least one knob protruding from an inner sidewall surface of the collar member;

the base of the container unit is formed with upper and lower bracket extensions extending radially outwardly therefrom to define a generally annular profile, the upper bracket extension having at least one notch formed therein providing clearance for the knob to pass therethrough for axial positioning between the upper and lower bracket extensions;

whereby said peripheral flange of said bladder is slidably displaceable captured between said upper bracket extension and said inner flange of said collar member; and the number of the first and second groups,

whereby, upon placement of said knob through said recess to be axially disposed between said upper and lower bracket extensions, said collar member is seated on said base, upon placement, said collar member is releasably locked to said base in an angularly displaceable manner to displace said knob from alignment with said recess.

17. An apparatus for metered dispensing of particulate material, comprising:

a container unit comprising a base defining a storage chamber and a first partition partially enclosing the storage chamber, the first partition extending around a first access opening in communication with the storage chamber;

a measurement unit including a bladder defining a metering chamber and a second partition partially enclosing the metering chamber, the bladder having a lower end portion formed with a peripheral flange extending radially outwardly therefrom, the second partition disposed at the lower end portion to slidably overlap a portion of the first partition and extending about a second access opening in communication with the metering chamber;

a holding unit removably coupled to the container unit and measurement unit, the holding unit including a collar member extending around both the container unit and measurement unit to hold the container unit and measurement unit in angularly displaceable manner relative to each other, the container unit and measurement unit thereby being mutually displaceable to enable selective configuration of the apparatus between a metering configuration and a dispensing configuration, the collar member having an internal flange extending radially inwardly therefrom to capture the peripheral flange of the bladder to the container unit;

wherein the relative angular positions of the first and second dividing zones in the dosing configuration are mutually adjusted to at least partially align the first and second access openings so as to migrate particulate material therethrough between the storage chamber and the dosing chamber, the relative angular positions of the first and second dividing zones in the dosing configuration being mutually adjusted to fully offset the first and second access openings and prevent migration of particulate material therethrough between the storage chamber and the dosing chamber.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the retaining unit includes a threaded portion disposed along an interior sidewall surface of the collar member to threadably engage the base, the retaining unit including a ridge structure formed to protrude from the interior sidewall surface of the collar member to prevent over-tightening of the threaded portion to the base, the peripheral flange of the pocket thereby remaining slidably displaceable captured by the interior flange of the collar member.

19. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the retention unit includes a blocking lug protruding from an interior sidewall surface of the collar member for limiting axial advancement of the collar member and the container unit relative to one another, the blocking lug defining a wedge-shaped configuration having an upper lug surface and an angled blocking surface formed therebelow, the peripheral flange of the pocket being slidably displaceable disposed between the upper lug surface of the blocking lug and the interior flange of the collar member.

20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein:

the holding unit comprises at least one knob protruding from an inner sidewall surface of the collar member;

the base of the container unit is formed with upper and lower bracket extensions extending radially outwardly therefrom to define a generally annular profile, the upper bracket extension having at least one notch formed therein providing clearance for the knob to pass therethrough for axial positioning between the upper and lower bracket extensions;

whereby said peripheral flange of said bladder is slidably displaceable captured between said upper bracket extension and said inner flange of said collar member; and the number of the first and second groups,

whereby, upon placement of said knob through said recess to be axially disposed between said upper and lower bracket extensions, said collar member is seated on said base, upon placement, said collar member is releasably locked to said base in an angularly displaceable manner to displace said knob from alignment with said recess.

Technical Field

The present dispensing apparatus is generally directed to an apparatus for storing and dispensing metered portions of powder or other particulate material therefrom. More precisely, the dispensing device is a dispensing device that is simple in construction and manufacture and that can be quickly and conveniently reconfigured so as to allow reliable storage of the material and division of the material into portions for subsequent dispensing in predetermined batches.

Many applications require the storage of large quantities of material for later dispensing in finer metered portions. An exemplary application is the portable storage and dispensing of dry particulate materials such as infant formula. Typically, in this context, parents of infants store and carry a sufficient amount of infant formula in the form of a concentrated dry powder from which a batch can be taken and immediately mixed with warm water or other liquid before each feeding. For obvious nutritional and other health reasons, it is important to maintain a proper and accurate portioning of the formula to be mixed.

This is particularly true where infants have common fragility and craving. Not only may an improper split of portions result in an adverse physical response after ingestion, but a disproportionate mixture may prove to be totally unpalatable to even allow moderately critical infants to eat.

Of course, by carefully mixing the formula powder in advance in precisely premixed ready-to-eat batches, a suitably accurate portioning can be ensured. However, this is often impractical for several reasons. First, the added weight of the liquid premix batch will be quite large, as will the added volume; and their separate storage would require an additional number of containers. Second, depending on shelf life and other environmental factors, pre-mixed batches are not fresh enough or even their perishable nature is likely to become a real consideration, and more additional items (such as necessary ice packs, coolers, etc.) may be required to maintain freshness. These and other considerations render the premixing of ready-to-eat premixed formula batches a completely impractical choice in many cases.

Therefore, parents of nursing infants often find themselves temporarily in preparing batches of formula when the feeding time for their infants is up. Of course, a proper portioning can be achieved by taking very deliberate measures when preparing batches of formula. Parents almost always find themselves in a busy and disorderly state, often in a less than ideal state. They always face such a less crude and simpler task: a baby bottle with the appropriate amount of liquid is prepared, the liquid is heated if necessary, the concentrated formula is dispensed, the correct amount is measured out, and the measured amount is then poured into the prepared liquid for mixing. Not surprisingly, the task of preparing fresh batches of formula for each feed itself becomes a huge project, requires great care in accurately measuring and mixing, and must not allow the material to spill out resulting in excessive mess, inability to leave soiled utensils and utensils, and the like. This situation is exacerbated when one person must on the one hand clumsy handle a plurality of containers, materials and utensils on their own, while at the same time having to attend to a hungry and possibly very impatient infant.

Furthermore, in situations where such nursing infants must be fed, it is desirable to provide a device having a storage chamber containing infant formula (or other contents) coupled to a measuring unit sufficiently configured to receive metered amounts of infant formula in a simple yet effectively operable structure. Furthermore, once this chamber has been coupled to this unit, there is a need for an uncomplicated apparatus, whereby the desired amount of infant formula can be easily transferred from the storage chamber to the measuring unit.

Accordingly, there is a need for a storage device from which particulate material can be dispensed in batches that are dispensed quickly, conveniently, cleanly, and accurately for subsequent use. Furthermore, there is a need for an apparatus having a structure that is simple and inexpensive to produce, whereby materials such as infant formula can be conveniently dispensed for use in accurately metered portions. There is a need for an apparatus whose structural features allow simple, quick and convenient assembly and disassembly into and from their fully operational configuration.

Background

Dispensing devices for particulate materials are known in the art. The best prior art known to the applicant includes us patent #6,601,734; #6,550,640; #5,758,803; #5,601,213; #5,271,535; #4,961,521; #4,832,235; #4,560,092; #4,346,823; #4,345,700; #4,322,017; #3,893,592; #3,512,681; #3,446,403; #3,327,905; #3,308,995; #3,211,334; #3,207,371; #3,201,009; #3,179,303; #3,130,874; #3,129,853; #3,005,578; #2,985,343; #2,904,230; #2,887,254; #2,877,937; #2,815,154; #2,636,646; #2,579,388; #2,515,735; #2,393,454; #2,385,677; #2,315,473; #2,211,452; #2,207,395; #2,088,836; #1,291,804; #1,005,130; #928,052; #685,988; #614,646; #582,972; #152,909 and #7,748,579. There is no heretofore known device for dispensing dosing material in measured batches that provides a combination of simplicity, ease of use and efficacy provided by the present dispensing apparatus.

United states patent No. 7,748,579, issued to the applicant, is directed to a dispensing device for conveniently dispensing metered amounts of material stored therein. In addition to the operational advantages generally provided by the teachings of this' 579 patent, the present dispensing apparatus also incorporates structural features that, among other things, enhance the ability of a user to quickly, conveniently, and simply assemble and disassemble the apparatus into and from its fully operative configuration.

The present dispensing apparatus provides a simple and easily assembled structure. For example, the measuring unit may be reliably fixed to the container unit and remain smoothly rotatable with respect to the container for convenient handling. In one exemplary embodiment, the measurement unit is coupled to the receptacle unit in this regard by a threaded collar member (which securely receives the measurement unit) whose threaded portion engages the threaded portion of the receptacle unit to releasably secure the measurement unit to the receptacle unit. The collar member includes at least one stop feature, such as a transverse ridge, disposed on a given thread, for example, for limiting the advancement of one engagement member relative to another engagement member along the threaded coupling. This serves to prevent the collar member from being improperly screwed onto the threaded portion of the container unit, which could otherwise create excessive clamping force on the portion of the measurement unit captured between the collar member and the container unit. Thus, the measurement unit may be securely coupled to the container unit and may remain free to displace angularly relative to the container unit to enable unimpeded metering and dispensing operations, as described in the following paragraphs.

In certain other exemplary embodiments, the stop feature may be implemented in the form of an axial stop structure that is engaged by one engagement component to stop further axial advancement of the engagement component relative to the other engagement component. For example, lugs projecting radially inwardly from the sidewall portion of the collar member serve to block further axial advancement of the upper peripheral edge of the container unit relative to the collar member upon sufficient threaded engagement. Above the blocking lug a sliding space remains, which is isolated from the threaded coupling (between the collar member and the container unit), wherein a part of the measuring unit can be tightly and slidably held to couple the measuring unit to the container unit in an angularly displaceable manner.

Disclosure of Invention

A main object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for quickly and conveniently dispensing a predetermined quantity of material stored therein.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus whereby a predetermined amount of stored particulate material can be quickly and conveniently separated from the remainder of the stored material for dispensing.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus having a simple and easy to use construction whereby particulate material can be metered for dispensing in predetermined batches with reasonable accuracy.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an application device having a simple and easily assembled structure, the functional units of which can be reliably fixed and remain smoothly displaceable relative to each other to maintain convenient and efficient operation.

These and other objects are achieved by an apparatus for metered dispensing of particulate material, comprising: a container unit having a base defining a storage chamber; a measurement unit having a bladder; a holding unit detachably coupled to the container unit and the measuring unit; and a partition structure adjustably defined between the container unit and the measurement unit. The bladder defines a metering chamber, and the holding unit includes a collar member extending around both the container unit and the measurement unit to hold the container unit and the measurement unit angularly displaceable relative to each other. The container unit and the measurement unit are thereby mutually displaceable to enable selective configuration of the apparatus between a metering configuration and a dispensing configuration. The dividing structure in the metering configuration is adapted to open communication between the storage chamber and the metering chamber for the migration of particulate material therebetween. The partition structure in the dispensing configuration is adapted to close communication between the storage chamber and the metering chamber and prevent migration of particulate material therebetween.

A metering dispensing apparatus formed in accordance with certain embodiments and applications generally includes a container unit and a measuring unit coupled to be angularly displaceable relative to each other between an open position and a closed position. The container unit is formed with a base and a first divisional area substantially enclosing a storage chamber defined by the base, the first divisional area being formed with an opening communicating with the storage chamber. The measurement unit includes a bladder and a second partition connected to the bladder for substantially enclosing a metering chamber defined by the bladder and the second partition. The second partition is opposite the first partition and (in combination with the bladder) defines an opening in communication with the metering chamber. In the open position, the first partition openings are at least partially aligned with the openings defined by the second partition and the bladder, and in the closed position the openings are offset from one another. A collar releasably engages the receptacle unit, a flange formed on the collar to capture a portion of the bladder against the receptacle unit therein. The ridge defined by the collar ensures that the bladder is not too tightly coupled to the container unit to remain angularly displaceable relative to the container unit.

Preferably, the capsule of the measurement unit and the container unit are configured to be coaxially arranged. Once the bladder is coupled to the container unit, the bladder may be coaxially rotated relative to the container unit to displace the second compartment relative to the first compartment between the open and closed positions. In the open position, a predetermined amount of material stored in the storage chamber may be displaced through the aligned openings to substantially fill the metering chamber. This amount of material (defined by the volume/capacity of the metering chamber) in the closed position may then be isolated from the reservoir chamber for subsequent dispensing.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a dispensing apparatus formed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an assembled perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the grommet shown in the embodiment of FIG. 1;

fig. 4A is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the dispensing apparatus in the embodiment illustrated in fig. 1, shown in a disassembled state;

fig. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the portion of the dispensing apparatus illustrated in fig. 4A shown in an assembled state;

FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a dispensing apparatus formed in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, shown in a disassembled state;

FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the portion shown in FIG. 5A shown in an assembled but released state;

FIG. 5C is a cross-sectional view of the portion shown in FIG. 5A, illustrating a rotational transition of the collar from the assembled but released state of FIG. 5B to an assembled and locked state; and the number of the first and second groups,

fig. 5D is an exploded perspective view of a portion of a dispensing apparatus that is similar in many respects to the embodiment shown in fig. 5A-5C but incorporates modifications of certain features to illustrate another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

The apparatus enables rapid, convenient and accurate metered dispensing of various particulate materials. The dispensed material may be, for example, in the form of a powder having various degrees of fineness or coarseness, in the form of granules or crystals, or the like. The apparatus preferably has a generally modular structure with its main units simply constructed and simply coupled together for ease of assembly and disassembly and for proper and efficient use.

In short, the device is formed with a container unit to which the measuring unit is displaceably coupled by means of a holding unit. These units are releasably and removably coupled to each other and each unit can be replaced as needed or desired so long as the replacement unit maintains the inter-coupling features to remain modularly compatible with the other units. The container unit defines a storage chamber for particulate material to be dispensed. The measurement unit defines a metering chamber and is displaceable relative to the container unit to selectively open or close an access inlet or communication opening in a partition structure disposed between its metering chamber and the storage chamber of the container unit. The dividing structure may be formed by a separate unit interposed between the measuring unit and the receptacle unit, or otherwise by dividing measures integrated into one or both of the measuring unit and the receptacle unit at the junctions thereof.

The holding unit is coupled to both the measurement unit and the container unit to hold them together in a releasable but fixed manner. The holding unit holds the measurement unit and the container unit together such that they can be mutually displaced in an angular position with respect to each other such that one or both of the units can be easily and smoothly displaced to selectively place the apparatus in a metering configuration and a dispensing configuration. In the metering configuration, the communication inlet is at least partially open to transfer particulate material between the storage chamber and the metering chamber. In the dispensing configuration, the communication is completely closed to isolate the metering chamber from the storage chamber whereby the metering material may be dispensed from the measurement unit without migrating additional particulate material therefrom into the metering chamber. For example, the modularity of the units permits replacement of the measurement units or container units with replacement units defining metering and storage chambers of various sizes, respectively.

Turning now to fig. 1-4, an exemplary embodiment of the present dispensing apparatus 10 is illustrated. In this embodiment, the dispensing apparatus 10 generally comprises a container unit 100 and a measuring unit 200, which is preferably coaxially coupled to the container unit in an angularly displaceable manner by a holding unit 250, which is preferably formed as a collar member. The container unit 100 generally serves as a portable storage device for a large amount of specific particulate material, such as concentrated infant formula. The measurement unit 200 is angularly displaceable along a series of angular positions relative to the receptacle unit 100. The dispensing apparatus 10 is adjustably configured to operate thereby. The measuring unit 200 serves a metering function, wherein the batch of material stored in the container 100 is forced into the measuring unit 200 and then physically isolated from the rest of the material in the storage container 100, in order to dispense exactly said measured batch of material cleanly and accurately from the dispensing device 10.

The various operating configurations of the dispensing apparatus 10 preferably include at least one configuration in which the measurement unit 200 assumes an open position relative to the container unit 100, and at least another configuration in which the measurement unit 200 assumes a closed position relative to the container unit 100. In the open position, the measuring and container units 200, 100 are mutually arranged such that a given material can freely pass between the chambers respectively defined thereby. In the closed position, access to this material pathway between the two cells 200, 100 is substantially blocked. Other operating configurations preferably include a release position and a lock position. In the release position, the measurement unit 200 is released to be detached/disassembled from the container unit 100. In the locked position, the measurement unit and receptacle units 200, 100 are connected such that the measurement unit 200 is captured in engagement with the receptacle unit 100, preferably while remaining angularly displaceable relative to the receptacle unit 100.

The dispensing apparatus 10 enables a user to carry a sufficient amount of a given material in bulk to supply many batches for later consumption. When needed, a batch of material can be quickly, cleanly and accurately measured out by the following operations: the measuring unit 200 is properly adjusted relative to the container unit 100, the apparatus 10 is manipulated to cause sufficient stored material to migrate from the container unit 100 into the measuring unit 200 and fill the measuring unit to its capacity. The measuring cell 200 may then be reset in position relative to the container unit 100, and the resulting batch of material is then discharged from the measuring cell 200. The process may be repeated to dispense a subsequent consistently dispensed batch of stored material for consumption.

The container unit 100 is formed with a base 110 that defines an internal storage compartment 115 for a given material. The container unit 100 includes a sectioning assembly 135 that generally encloses a planar sectioning layer 140 enclosing a storage chamber 115 defined by a base 110. The dividing layer 140 has an opening 145 communicating with the reservoir 115. In the embodiment shown, the sectioning assembly 135 is integrally formed with the base 110; however, it may be suitably configured in other embodiments to be removably coupled to such a base. Also in the illustrated embodiment, the base 110 is formed with a generally cylindrical profile having an upper terminal end 111 and a lower terminal end 112. The division assembly 135 is integrally formed with the base 110 at the upper terminal end 111 thereof, and an opening 145 is formed through this division assembly to allow access to the storage chamber 115. In other embodiments, the segmentation assembly 135 may be formed with a removable configuration relative to the base 110, and thus the segmentation assembly is capped onto the base 110. In these embodiments, the partitioning assembly 135 can be removed by a user as needed for more convenient filling, emptying, or cleaning of the storage chamber 115, among other things.

The singulation assembly 135 shown in the illustrative embodiment is formed with a generally planar singulation level 140 in which an access opening 145, preferably wedge-shaped, is formed to enable open access to the storage chamber 115. In this embodiment, the measurement unit 200 serves as a cover and for the measurement/dispensing function of the container unit 100. The slice level 140, with the base 110 formed at its upper terminal end 111, remains fixed while the components of the measuring unit 200 are angularly displaced relative to the container unit 100 to adjust the operating configuration of the deployment apparatus 10.

The singulation assembly 135 preferably includes stops 150 that project upward from the singulation level 140. This stop 150 is suitably positioned relative to the opening 145 so as to limit the angular displacement of the measurement unit 200 in the fully closed and fully open positions (or other predetermined positions) relative to the container unit 100 for predictable adjustment of those positions or any angular position therebetween.

The base 110 of the container unit 100 is preferably formed with a threaded portion 125 at its upper terminal end 111. In the disclosed embodiment, this threaded portion 125 is formed along an outer surface of the base 110. The collar member 250 is formed with an upper end 251 and a lower end 260 and defines a generally annular profile. The collar member 250 is formed with a complementary threaded portion 253 extending along the inner sidewall surface thereof. Threaded portion 253 is suitably configured to engage (at the upper terminal end 111 of this base) threaded portion 125 extending along the outer surface of base 110 to thereby releasably couple collar 250 to base 110 in coaxial engagement. In the release position, collar 250 may be disassembled from base 110 for cleaning, refilling, etc. In the coupled configuration, threaded portion 253 of collar 250 engages threaded portion 125 of base 110 to adjustably secure the securement of the collar to base 110, and thus the capture of measurement unit 200 to container unit 100.

Preferably, this coupling is tight enough to hold the coupling securely, without capturing the measurement unit 200 so tightly that it is hindered from angular displacement relative to the container unit 100. The measuring unit 200 is preferably held such that it can undergo smooth rotation relative to the container unit between predetermined limits of its angular position without interference from undue frictional contact or restrictive clamping forces between the collar member 250 and the container unit 100.

In certain exemplary embodiments and applications, the stop feature is provided in the threads of collar member 250, and/or alternatively in the threads of container unit 200. In the example shown in fig. 3, the ridge structure 256 is formed to protrude from the inner side wall surface of the grommet member 250, for example. The ridge 256 traverses the space (or a portion of the space) between adjacent thread segments defined by the threaded portion 253 of the grommet 250. When collar 250 is coupled to base 110, once the front end of threaded portion 111 reaches ridge 256, the advancement of threaded portion 253 along its threaded engagement with threaded portion 111 of base 110 of the container unit stops. The ridge 256 is suitably configured and positioned at the threaded portion 253 such that at this point the measurement unit 200 is reliably secured to the container unit 100, but is not held so tightly against the container unit that it cannot freely rotate relative to the container unit 100.

Thus, the user does not have to guess the necessary tightness to achieve the desired balance between a sufficiently firm coupling and a sufficiently loose holding of the measuring unit 200 relative to the container unit 100. Furthermore, the threaded engagement between the collar member 250 and the container unit 100 is isolated from slidable displacement of the measurement unit 200 relative to the container unit 100. That is, angular displacement of the measurement unit 200 in a particular direction does not adversely affect the tightness of the collar-container threaded engagement.

This ridge-limited collar-container engagement also makes it easier for a user to couple and decouple the collar 250 to and from the base 110 of the container unit for disassembly. For example, if threaded portion 253 of collar 250 is over-tightened to threaded portion 125 of base 110, proportionally too much effort would be required to release the engagement. Among other potential accidents, the application of excessive torque/pressure may result in undesirable deflections and potentially damage the container unit 100.

Ridges 256 defined on threaded portion 253 thus ensure that collar 250 is prevented from further angular displacement in the tightening direction relative to base 110 after threaded portion 125 reaches ridges 256. In other words, collar 250 cannot be tightened further when threaded portion 125 of base 110 meets ridge 256 defined by threaded portion 253 of the collar. That is, threaded portion 125 cannot further engage threaded portion 253, thereby ensuring that collar 250 is not over-tightened to base 110 beyond a certain point.

The container unit 100 may be formed from any suitable material known in the art suitable for the particular requirements of a given application. In infant formula dispensing applications, materials such as plastic, plexiglass, pyrex, stainless steel, or other materials having suitable strength, rigidity, and durability for the application may be employed, for example. Other considerations such as thermal expansion characteristics and the ability to withstand a wide variety of temperatures may be particularly important in infant product applications, given the common practice of parents sterilizing vessels and utensils by immersion in boiling water. However, the particular choice of material actually employed is not critical to the present invention.

The measurement unit 200 includes a bladder 210 that extends above an auxiliary slice level 240 to define a metrology or measurement chamber 220 therein. The bladder 210 may be formed with any suitable profile necessary to produce a predetermined volumetric capacity of the metering chamber 220. Preferably, the entire bladder 210 or a portion thereof is formed of a transparent, translucent, or transparent material such that the degree of filling of the bladder is readily observable by a user.

The bladder 210 is formed at its upper end 212 with a dispensing opening 213 disposed in open communication with its metering chamber 220. A closure 270 is provided for closing this dispensing opening 213, preferably by engaging a catch portion 214 formed around the upper end 212 of the pouch 210. For simplicity and convenience of use, this closure 270 is preferably held with the measurement unit 200 by a flexible or semi-flexible (deflectable) tether 275 having any suitable configuration known in the art. This tether 275 in the disclosed embodiment is formed with a first end connected to the closure 270 and a second end connected to a retaining collar/ring 280 having a bore 285 extending therethrough.

The retaining ring 280 preferably fits over the upper end 212 of the bladder unit 210 much like a grommet and is deflected around and under the annular ridge by the capture portion 214. The closure 270 may then be capped over the dispensing opening 213. When a user wishes to access the measurement chamber 220, such as when a parent wishes to dispense the metered contents of the chamber 220 for use, the closure 270 may be removed from the dispensing opening 213 and simply released. The closure 270 is still attached by its tether 275 which remains engaged to the upper end 212 of the bladder, held there by the catch portion 214. Once the user no longer needs to access the chamber 220, the closure 270 is replaced over the dispensing opening 213 of the upper end 212.

The secondary dividing level 240 provides a partial floor for the metering chamber 220 that is otherwise open at its bottom. The opening formed beyond this portion of the floor of the chamber 220 may be partially or completely blocked by the segmented layer face 140 of the container unit 100, depending on the angular position of the bladder unit relative to the container unit 100.

In the release or disassembly configuration, a user may fill the storage chamber 115 of the base 110 with a particular predetermined amount of particulate material using the access opening 145 formed through the segmented layer face 140. Alternatively, when the apparatus is in a closed or assembled configuration, filling of the material may be effected by removing an end cap 180 that preferably covers the otherwise open bottom of the base 110, as described in the following paragraphs.

The access opening 145 extends between two ends, preferably terminating on one end at a stop portion 150 projecting upwardly from the slice level surface 145. In the disclosed embodiment, this stop portion 150 is integrally formed with the split level 140 and is positioned along one side in alignment with the terminal end of the access opening 145. In other embodiments, however, this stop portion 150 may be formed to be removably or adjustably coupled to the slice plane 140 such that it may be selectively positioned elsewhere relative to the end of the access opening 145. For example, the stop portion 150 in such alternative embodiments may even be selectively disposed at an intermediate position along the opening between the opposing ends.

Although the access opening 145 in the disclosed embodiment is formed with an arcuate shape spanning the angled region between the first and second radially extending ends, the access opening 145 may be formed with other shapes and sizes depending on the requirements of a particular desired application. In certain embodiments and applications, more than one access opening 145 may be formed in the partition level 140. Preferably, the shape, size and number of access openings 145 are determined in coordination with the shape and size of the auxiliary segmentation level 240 of the measurement unit 200 for a particular application.

As shown, the auxiliary deck 240 extends between a leading edge 241 and a trailing edge 242, preferably configured to completely cover the opening 145 to extend thereover when correspondingly angled with respect to the deck 140. In the disclosed embodiment, the auxiliary dividing layer 240 is releasably coupled to the bladder 210. In certain other embodiments, the auxiliary dividing layer 240 may be secured to or integrally formed with the balloon 210. A chamber 230 is defined within the inner surface of bladder 210 above the lower end 235 of this bladder; and an auxiliary dividing layer 240 is coupled to the bladder 210 to partially enclose this chamber 230. The lower end 235 of the bladder 210 is suitably configured to be tightly and securely coupled to the auxiliary dividing layer 240.

Preferably, the auxiliary dividing layer 240 is securely coupled to move with the bladder 210. Thus, when bladder 210 is angularly displaced relative to base 110, the auxiliary slice plane may be angularly displaced in unison with this bladder. That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the deck 240 and bladder 210 may be angularly displaced relative to the base 110 as a single unit for simplicity and ease of use.

Also in the illustrated embodiment, the bladder 210 is preferably formed with an opening at its lower end 235 to facilitate access and cleaning when disassembled from the secondary deck 240. In an alternative configuration in which the secondary dividing layers 240 and 210 are integrally formed, it is preferable to leave sufficient remaining portion 236 of the opening to allow easy access to the chamber 230 and its surrounding inner surface (for cleaning or other purposes).

When the measurement unit 200 is coupled to the base 110, the auxiliary slice plane 240 is disposed above the slice plane 140 in a substantially overlying manner, preferably coaxially rotatable with respect to the slice plane. Depending on the angular position of the measurement unit 200 relative to the partitioning assembly 135, the remaining opening 236 may or may not be aligned with some portion of the access opening 145. The configuration and sizing of the access opening 145 is defined by the slice plane 140, while the sizing and configuration of the remaining openings 236 is defined by the span of the bottom opening of the bladder 210 that assists the slice plane 240.

When the measurement unit 200 is disposed in an open angular position relative to the container unit 100, at least a portion of the remaining opening 236 is aligned with a portion of the container's access opening 145, thereby opening communication between the metering chamber 220 and the storage chamber 115. When the measurement unit 200 is disposed in its closed position relative to the container 100, the remaining opening 236 is sufficiently offset relative to the access opening 145 such that the partial floors defined by the slice plane 140 and the auxiliary slice plane 240 combine to completely enclose and isolate the chambers 220 and 115 from each other. More specifically, the access opening 145 is blocked or covered by the auxiliary slice layer 240, while the remaining openings 236 are blocked or covered by the slice layer 140. The reservoir chamber 115 and the metering chamber 220 are thereby separated and isolated from each other to a selective degree.

In the illustrated embodiment, the stop 150 is formed to project upwardly from the segmented layer 140 so as to extend into the remaining opening 236. When the measuring unit 200 is in its fully open position relative to the container unit 100, the rear edge 242 of the auxiliary dividing level 240 is positioned to abut a first side of the stop portion 150. The stop portion 150 acts just like a fort preventing the rear edge 242 from moving any further past it. In this metering configuration, the leading edge 241 is preferably positioned relative to the access opening 145 such that the opening 145 remains unobstructed by any portion of the auxiliary slice level 240. The stored material can then be freely delivered from the storage chamber 115 into the metering chamber 220 via the access opening 145, with the remaining opening 236 at that point in sufficient alignment therewith.

The angular displacement of the measuring unit 200 relative to the container unit 100 in other directions away from its fully open position can gradually block an increasing portion of the access opening 145 (with the auxiliary slice level 240). Thus, a user may adjust the apparatus 10 to control the size of the access opening 145 that remains open between the metering and storage chambers 220, 115, and thereby control the rate at which material flow is permitted therethrough. This adjustment may be made to the point where the remaining opening 236 no longer overlaps the access opening 145 (the remaining opening 236 is thereby effectively blocked by the slice plane 140), thereby completely partitioning and effectively isolating the metering chamber 220 from the storage chamber 115. At this point, the measurement unit 200 is disposed at its closed position, and the apparatus 10 is set to the dispensing configuration accordingly.

Preferably, the measuring unit 200 in this closed position is positioned at an angle relative to the container unit 100 such that the front edge 241 of the auxiliary slice plane 240 abuts the second side of the stop portion 150 of the slice plane 140. In this configuration, the access opening 145 is completely blocked by the auxiliary dividing level 240, and communication between the chambers 220 and 115 is jointly blocked by the dividing and auxiliary dividing levels 140, 240. The metering chamber 220 of the measurement unit is thus divided by a complete floor defined jointly by the auxiliary dividing level 240 extending across the access opening 145 and the dividing level 140 extending below across the remaining portion (beyond and near the access opening 145) -thereby effectively separating and isolating the storage chamber 115 from the measurement chamber 220.

The user may then return the measurement unit 200 to the at least partially open position by pivoting the measurement unit 200 back relative to the container unit 100 towards the fully open position, with the rear edge 242 abutting the second side of the stop portion 150. The limit of displacement provided by the stop portion 150 enables a user to conveniently reconfigure the apparatus 10 between the fully open and closed (or metering and dispensing) configurations by alternately positioning the rear edge 242 against the stop portion 150 or the front edge 241 against the stop portion 150.

As shown in fig. 1 and 3, the collar member 250 is formed at its upper end 251 with an inner flange portion 259 that projects radially inwardly into the central opening. The inner flange portion 259 defined by the collar 250 remains engaged with the peripheral flange 225 formed at the bottom end periphery (or base region) of the bladder 210 to capture the peripheral flange against a support surface defined below by the container unit 100. More specifically, the peripheral flange 225 extends adjacent the outer surface at the bottom end 235 of the bladder 210 and is held axially below against the corresponding portion of the segmented layer face 140 of the container unit 100 by the inner flange portion 259 of the collar 250.

When a user desires to fill the storage unit 115 of the base 110 with powder or other particulate material, the collar member 250 is decoupled from the base 110 of the container unit 100 to release the peripheral flange 225 of the pouch 210 from under the inner flange portion 259 of the collar 250. The user may then fill, clean, or stow the storage unit 115. Once the reservoir 115 is properly filled with particulate material for use, the user may reattach the capsule 210 to the container unit 100 and adjustably secure the capsule in place by using the collar 250. Collar 250 may be releasably coupled to container unit 100 by, for example, being advanced to tighten its threaded engagement to complementary threads formed around the mouth of container unit 100, as shown in the illustrated embodiment. When sufficiently secured, the collar 250 retains the peripheral flange 225 of the bladder with its inner flange portion 259.

As mentioned, bladder 210 is secured to base 110 in this exemplary embodiment through the use of threaded portion 253 of collar that cooperatively engages threaded portion 125 of base 110. The degree of engagement of the threaded portions 253 and 125 is: the collar 250 does not engage too tightly with the base 110. Preferably, the engagement is such that it permits the measurement unit 200 to rotate freely relative to the container unit 100. To this end, a ridge is formed at a predetermined point along at least one of the thread portions 125, 253. This is shown, for example, in the illustrated embodiment on threaded portion 253 of collar 250. After the threaded portion 125 of the base 110 meets the ridge 256, the threaded portion 125 is prevented from advancing further along the threaded portion 253, thereby ensuring that the collar 250 is not over-tightened beyond a certain point relative to the base 110. After collar 250 has been secured to base 110, bladder 210 thus remains angularly displaceable relative to segmented layer 135 between its open and closed positions without excessive user effort.

With particular reference to fig. 4A and 4B, a grommet member 250 formed in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this embodiment, collar 250 is again formed with threaded portion 253. But instead of a ridge portion, a stop feature is implemented using a stop lug 252, preferably formed to protrude radially into the central opening of collar 250, as shown. This blocking lug 252 may extend contiguously around the interior sidewall surface of the collar to define an annular profile, or alternatively project radially inward from one or more angularly offset sections of the interior sidewall surface of the collar. The stop lugs 252 are preferably formed to provide an angled wedge-shaped stop surface below to engage the upper edge of the base 110 of the container unit as it is threadably advanced to engage the collar 250. The stop surface of the lug 252 prevents the base 110 from being pushed axially further into the collar 250. Although not shown, in other alternative embodiments, a suitable stop lug structure may instead be formed on the base 110 to provide an over-tight engagement of the grommet 250 thereto.

Preferably, in this embodiment, the annular groove is defined generally above the stop lug 252 and below the inner flange portion 259 of the collar 250. This annular groove effectively acts as a slidable receiving track for the peripheral flange 225 of the bladder 210, as shown in fig. 4B. During assembly, the bladder 210 may be inserted into the collar 250 from bottom to top as shown until the peripheral flange 225 snap-fits into a slidably engaged position within this groove past the blocking lugs 252. The inclined wedge-shaped bottom surface of the stop lug 225 in this regard helps to guide the peripheral flange 225 radially and axially until it is in snap-fit engagement with the annular receiving groove.

Once so positioned, peripheral flange 225 remains permanently engaged to and retained in the collar, between peripheral flange 225 and stop lug 252. This retentive engagement of peripheral flange 225 remains constant, largely independent of the extent to which collar 250 and base 110 are tightly screwed into engagement with one another. Regardless of the tightness of the threaded engagement, the balloon 210 remains free and smoothly angularly displaceable relative to the segmented layer 140 of 135. Rather, angular displacement of the bladder in either direction does not undo, reinforce, or otherwise compromise this threaded, screw-on, engagement coupling of collar 250 to container unit 100.

As with the container unit 100, the measurement unit 200 may be formed of any material known in the art suitable for the intended application. Plastic, plexiglass, pyrex, steel, or other such materials having sufficient strength, rigidity, and durability for a given application may be employed for various portions of the measurement unit 200. Thermal characteristics may be of particular concern in infant formula dispensing applications of the illustrated embodiments.

As mentioned, in the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of the bladder 210 is preferably formed of a clear or at least partially transparent material to facilitate convenient visual determination of how full the bladder is filled with material delivered from the storage chamber 115 of the container unit base 110. Also, at least a portion of the base 110 is preferably formed of a material that is formed to be transparent or at least partially transparent to facilitate visual confirmation of the amount of material remaining within the storage chamber 115 of the base 110.

In addition, the base 110, with the lower terminal end 112 formed, also defines a fill opening 160. This fill opening 160 provides additional open access to the reservoir 115. The fill opening 160 may be closed during use by a removable end cap 180, for which purpose the end cap 180 may be releasably secured to the terminal end 112 using suitable securing means known in the art, such as respective threads 185, 170. The resulting structure permits a user to easily fill and empty the reservoir 115 of the container unit and to perform these operations very conveniently without having to detach the measuring unit 200 from the container unit 100.

When it is desired to dispense a batch of the stored material for use, the user simply configures the device 10 to place the measuring cell 200 in its open position and then inverts, shakes or otherwise manipulates the device 10 to force a portion of the stored material into the metering chamber 220 of the capsule 210. When the metering chamber 220 is substantially filled to its capacity, the apparatus 10 is again reconfigured to place the measurement cell 200 in its closed position, thereby completely separating the thus metered batch of material within the metering chamber 220 from the storage chamber 115. The user may then remove the closure 270 and dispense the batch of metered material through the dispensing opening 213. The closure 270 is replaceable and the process is quickly and conveniently repeated to dispense an extra batch of stored material.

Turning now to specific parts of fig. 5A-5C and 5D, a dispensing apparatus 10' formed in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown in fig. 5D (which shows an embodiment 10 "that differs in two respects but is identical in all other respects as described in the following paragraphs), the grommet 250' in this embodiment is formed with a generally annular configuration having upper and lower annular ends between which extend axially outer and inner wall surfaces 254', 255 '. In this embodiment, collar 250' is formed with at least one knob 257' that projects radially inward from inner wall surface 255' into the central opening.

In this embodiment, the container unit 100 'is formed with a generally barrel-shaped base 110' terminating at an upper end. The container unit 100' defines a storage space 115' surrounded by a base 110' and covered on top by a suitably configured slice level (not shown for clarity of the schematic description) very similar to the slice level 140 of the embodiment of fig. 1-3. At or near the upper end of the base 110', upper and lower stent extensions 111', 112 'are formed that extend radially outward from the base 110' to define a generally annular or ring-like profile. The lower bracket extension 112' is axially displaced from the upper bracket extension 111' by a predetermined interval to define therebetween an orbital annular track extending around the outer surface of the base 110 '. Preferably, one or more notches 116 'are formed in the upper bracket extension 111', wherein each notch 116 'is formed to provide sufficient clearance to pass a knob 257' (formed to project radially inward from the inner surface 255') of the collar 250' to axially pass therethrough when properly aligned with the clearance.

The collar 250 'can then be coupled to the container 100' by aligning its knob 257 'with a corresponding recess 116' of the container unit, and then locked by turning relative to the container unit such that the knob 257 'is angularly displaced out of alignment with the recess 116'. The knob 257 'is then used to retentively engage the uninterrupted portion of the upper bracket extension 111' from below, whereby the collar 250 'is releasably locked to the container unit 100' while remaining freely adjustable in angular position relative to the container unit.

One or more additional knob and notch combinations may be employed at suitable locations around the container unit 100' to increase the safety/stability of this retentive coupling, depending on the requirements of the particular desired application. In the particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, only one knob and notch combination 257'/116' is employed. In the alternative embodiment of fig. 5D, however, two knob and notch combinations 257'/116' are employed, disposed approximately at diametrically opposite angular positions. Except in this regard and others, the embodiment of fig. 5D has a similar structure and configuration as the embodiment of fig. 5A-5C. In certain other alternative embodiments, various other numbers of knob and recess combinations may be employed, with various angular orientations and arrangements, depending on the requirements of the particular desired application.

As shown, when the apparatus 10 'is assembled, the bladder 210' is captured between the inner flange portion 259 'of the collar 250' and the upper bracket extension 111 '(and/or a split layer surface embedded or formed thereon, but not shown for clarity of illustration) of the container unit 100'. Once the knob 257 'of the collar is positioned to retentively engage the upper bracket extension 111' from below, the bottom edge of the collar 250 'rides over the radially protruding portion of the lower bracket extension 112' to provide stable support. With such capture, the bladder 210' is then free to rotate relative to the container unit 100', with its peripheral flange 225' slidably received in the annular groove effectively defined by the inner flange portion 259' of the collar 250' and the upper bracket extension 111' of the container unit 100 '.

Thus, the bladder 210 'is secured within the inner surface 255' of the collar 250 'to remain angularly displaceable relative to the base 110' between its open and closed positions. The bladder 210' defines a metering chamber having a bottom opening that is partially covered by a secondary slice layer (not shown for clarity of description) much like the secondary slice layer 240 of the embodiment shown in fig. 1-3.

The resulting structure permits a user to easily secure the ring tube 250 'to the container unit 100' without having to bother with additional structure such as intermeshing threads. The user simply places the pouch 210' on the upper end of the base 110', slides the collar 250' over and around the pouch 210', aligns its knob 257' with the collar's notch 116', then pulls and turns downward to secure the assembly, securely yet rotatably capturing the collar 250' against the container unit 100 '. Then, when the user wishes to disassemble the device, he/she can very conveniently rotate collar 250' to realign knob 257' and recess 116', and then pull away the collar by lifting to release bladder 210' for removal from container unit 100 '.

The embodiment shown in fig. 5A-5C is reflected in part by fig. 5D, with like features shown with like reference numerals (but the embodiment of fig. 5D additionally includes certain alternative features as mentioned herein). As shown in fig. 5A-5C, in this particular embodiment, collar 250 'is defined to have a suitable configuration such that when collar 250' engages bladder 210', peripheral flange 225' extending radially from the bottom end of bladder 210 'remains radially captured within inner surface 255' of collar 250 'and is axially captured (against the upper end of container unit 100') by inner flange 259 'of collar 250'. Thus, the peripheral flange 225' nests within the collar 250' to sit above a dividing level suitably formed atop the upper end 111' of the base 110' of the container unit, where it is secured by the releasable coupling of the collar to the container unit 100 '.

After the peripheral flange 225 'of the pouch 210' is seated within the inner surface 255 'of collar 250', between its knob 257 'and inner flange 259' as shown in fig. 5C, collar 250 'may be rotated (relative to the container unit) to align its knob 257' with recess 116 'to axially enter the engaged position on container unit 100'. As illustrated in fig. 5B-5C, the knob 257 'is positioned in the annular space 146' at this point, between the upper and lower bracket extensions 111', 112' of the container unit base 110. The collar 250' can then be rotated relative to the container unit 100' to displace the knob 257' out of alignment with the recess 116', thereby retentively engaging the bottom surface of the upper bracket extension 111 '. As shown in fig. 5C, the collar 250 'may be rotated relative to the container unit 110' as desired in such a manner to selectively align or misalign its knob 257 'with the notch 116' (coupled or released position), thereby alternately releasing or locking the collar's engagement with the container unit 100'. This plug-in and rotational engagement avoids the need for threaded structures or ridges formed in or with such threaded structures to provide for over-tightening of the collar relative to the container unit 100'.

Turning to different aspects of the alternative embodiment of fig. 5D (as compared to the embodiment of fig. 5A-5C), like reference numerals refer to like features in the previous embodiments. In addition to employing multiple knob and recess combinations 257'/116' as noted in the previous paragraph, embodiments alternatively provide different configurations for the lower bracket extension 112 ". The lower bracket extension 112 "of the container unit base 110" as embodied in the apparatus 10 "does not extend radially beyond the upper bracket extension 111'. The use of at least one additional knob and recess combination 257'/116' in the manner shown may increase the stability and support of the engagement between the collar 250' and the container unit 100 "such that the lower bracket extension 112" does not have to provide vertical (axial) support for the lower annular end 260' of the collar 250 '.

Thus, the radial extent of this lower bracket extension 112 "is comparable to the upper bracket extension 111', and is preferably spaced relative to the upper bracket extension 111' to fit within and be enveloped by the inner surface 255 'of the grommet 250' when fully assembled. The configuration of the axial height/length of the grommet side wall (and thus its inner surface 255') may also be suitably expanded in this regard as needed, depending on the requirements of a particular desired application. The lower bracket extension 112 "may then provide internal radial support for the collar 250 'at or near its lower annular end 260' to prevent undue deflection at the free open end/edge structure therein.

While the present invention has been described in connection with the specific forms and embodiments thereof, it will be understood that various modifications in addition to those discussed above may be resorted to without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. For example, equivalent elements may be substituted for those specifically shown and described, certain features may be used independently of other features, and in certain instances, certain combinations of the disclosed steps may be reversed or intervening steps may be performed, all without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.