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WO2023122387A1 - A connected container system - Google Patents

A connected container system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2023122387A1
WO2023122387A1 PCT/US2022/079423 US2022079423W WO2023122387A1 WO 2023122387 A1 WO2023122387 A1 WO 2023122387A1 US 2022079423 W US2022079423 W US 2022079423W WO 2023122387 A1 WO2023122387 A1 WO 2023122387A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
container
recess
cap
contents
cavity
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2022/079423
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Grace BEHREND
Original Assignee
Glaxosmithkline Consumer Healthcare Holdings (Us) Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Glaxosmithkline Consumer Healthcare Holdings (Us) Llc filed Critical Glaxosmithkline Consumer Healthcare Holdings (Us) Llc
Publication of WO2023122387A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023122387A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D21/00—Nestable, stackable or joinable containers; Containers of variable capacity
    • B65D21/02—Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together
    • B65D21/0209—Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together stackable or joined together one-upon-the-other in the upright or upside-down position
    • B65D21/023—Closed containers provided with local cooperating elements in the top and bottom surfaces, e.g. projection and recess
    • B65D21/0231—Bottles, canisters or jars whereby the neck or handle project into a cooperating cavity in the bottom

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a connected container system including a first container and a second container, wherein the first container and the second container are removably connected to create a connected system.
  • Containers provide a hygienic and convenient way to dispense contents stored within the containers. Such containers are readily used with pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and the food industry. In conventional containers, a separate and independently operating container is required for each product or for each content.
  • aspects of the prevent invention are directed to a connected container system comprising: a first container having at least a top portion, a bottom portion, and a side wall portion defining a cavity wherein contents may be held, wherein the first container has a recess on the bottom portion, a second container having at least a top portion, a bottom portion, and a side wall portion defining a cavity wherein contents may be held, wherein a portion of the second container is accommodated in the recess of the first container, thereby removably connecting the first container and the second container into a connected system.
  • aspects of the present invention are further directed to the bottom portion of the second container including a protrusion that is accommodated in the recess of the first container to removably connect the first container and the second container.
  • aspects of the present invention are directed to the second container including an annular neck portion that serves as the sole opening for the passage of contents out of the cavity of the second container.
  • aspects of the present invention are directed to the next being accommodated in the recess of the first container to removably connect the first container and the second container.
  • aspects of the present invention are further directed to the first container including a first cap and the second container including a second cap, wherein the first cap and the second cap are provided over the cavity of the first container and the second container respectively.
  • aspects of the present invention are further directed to the second cap being accommodated in the recess of the first container to removably connect the first container and the second container.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a connected container system according to a first embodiment in a connected state
  • FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the connected container system according to the first embodiment in the connected state
  • FIG. 3 is a front view of a first container of the connected container system according to the first embodiment
  • FIG. 4 is front view of a second container of the connected container system according to the first embodiment
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a connected container system according to a second embodiment in a connected state
  • FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the connected container system according to the second embodiment in the connected state
  • FIG. 7 is a front view of a first container of the connected container system according to the second embodiment;
  • FIG. 8 is a front view of a second container of the connected container system according to the second embodiment;
  • FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a connected container system according to a third embodiment in a connected state
  • FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the connected container system according to the third embodiment in the connected state
  • FIG. 11 is a front view of a first container of the connected container system according to the third embodiment.
  • FIG. 12 is a front view of a second container of the connected container system according to the third embodiment.
  • aspects of the present invention are directed to a connected container system that conveniently stores two different contents via two separate connected containers.
  • the connected container system according to the invention includes at least two containers that are removably connected into a system.
  • the contents stored in the containers may be complementary and used together routinely.
  • the connected container system uses less material and is more sustainable as compared to two separate containers traditionally used to store and dispense two separate contents. Further, the connected container system allows a user to easily access both contents conveniently in one system. Therefore, the connected container system is a more convenient, user friendly, and sustainable packaging option. The connected container system also ensure compliance with a health regime where two complementary products are needed by storing the products conveniently in a single system.
  • Figures 1 - 12 are based upon engineering drawings used for the development and representation of a connected container system and represents the various embodiments of the present invention. Hence, the drawings are to scale and representative of the geometry of the connected container system.
  • Figures 1 and 2 illustrate an exemplary connected container system 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of the connected container system 10 in a connected state according to the first embodiment.
  • Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connected container system 10 in a connected state according to the first embodiment.
  • the connected container system 10 includes a first container 110 and a second container 150.
  • the first container 110 includes a bottom portion 112, a top portion 111, and a side wall portion 113 defining a cavity 117 wherein contents may be held.
  • the second container 150 includes a top portion 151, a bottom portion 152, and a side wall portion 153 defining a cavity 157 wherein contents may be held.
  • the top portion 111 of the first container 110 includes an annular neck 115 which is hollow and serves as the sole opening for the passage of contents out of the cavity 117 of the first container 110.
  • a first cap 114 may be provided on the neck 115 of the first container 110 so as to close the opening to the cavity 117.
  • the first cap 114 may be secured to the first container 110 in any manner known in the art. In an embodiment, the first cap 114 may be secured to the first container 110 by being screwed onto threads provided on the neck 115. In another embodiment, the first cap 114 may be snap fitted to the neck 115 of the first container 110.
  • the bottom portion 112 of the first container 110 includes a recess 116.
  • the recess 116 is a circular cavity.
  • the recess 116 includes a side wall 116a which extends down from the top of the recess 116 to the bottom 112 of the first container 110.
  • the bottom portion 152 of the second container 150 includes a protrusion 556 which corresponds in shape and size to the shape and size of the recess 116 of the first container.
  • the protrusion 556 extends downwards from the bottom portion 152 of the second container 150 when the second container 150 is right side up.
  • the top portion 151 of the second container 150 includes an annular neck 155 which is hollow and serves as the sole opening for the passage of contents out the cavity 157 of the second container 150.
  • a second cap 154 may be provided on the neck 155 of the second container 150 so as to close the opening to the cavity.
  • the second cap 154 may be secured to the second container 150 in any manner known in the art.
  • the second cap 154 may be secured to the second container 150 by being screwed onto threads provided on the neck 154.
  • the second cap 154 may be snap fitted to the neck of the second container.
  • the protrusion 156 of the second container 150 is accommodated in the recess 116 of the first container 110, thereby removably connecting the first container 110 and the second container 150 into a connected system.
  • the protrusion 156 and the recess 116 are connected by a snap fit mechanism.
  • the protrusion 156 and recess 116 are connected by a friction fit.
  • the connection between the first container 110 and the second container 150 is secure such that the containers will remain as a connected system during ordinary use.
  • the connection between the first container 110 and the second container 150 is not secure and is for stacking during storing.
  • the first container 110 In the connected state, in a first orientation, the first container 110 is provided on top of the second container 150 with respect to the vertical access. In this orientation, the first container 110 is right side up and the second container 150 is upside down. In a second orientation in the connected state, the second container 150 is provided on top of the first container 110 with respect to the vertical access. In this orientation, the second container 150 is right side up and the first container 110 is upside down.
  • the user may open the cap 114, 154 and access the contents of the container 110, 150 that is on top with respect to the vertical access. Thereafter, the user may rotate the connected container system 10 180° and open the cap 114, 154 to access the contents of the other container 110, 150.
  • the connected container system 10 may be stored in the first orientation or the second orientation when not in use. Storing the connected container system in the connected state provides easier storage and more convenient access to both contents in a single system.
  • Figures 3 and 4 illustrate a front view of the first container 110 and the second container 150 in a detached state according to the first embodiment.
  • the first container 110 and the second container 150 are removably connected such that protrusion 156 may be removed from the recess 116 to separate the first container 110 and the second container 150.
  • the containers 110, 150 may be separated with the use of ordinary force.
  • the detached state the first container 110 and the second container 150 may be stored independently, and the contents of each container may continue to be accessed independently.
  • the connected container system 10 may be stored in the connected state or in the detached state.
  • Figures 5 - 8 illustrate a connected container system 20 in a connected state according to a second embodiment.
  • Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the connected container system 20 in the connected state according to the second embodiment.
  • Figure 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connected container system 20 in the connected state according to the second embodiment.
  • the second embodiment includes a first container 210 having a top portion 211, a bottom portion 212, and a side wall portion 213.
  • the first container 210 includes a recess 216 in the bottom portion 212.
  • the second embodiment also includes a second container 250 having a top portion 251, a bottom portion 252, and a side wall portion 253.
  • the connected container system 20 according to the second embodiment further includes a first cap 214 provided on a neck 215 of the first container 210 and a second cap 254 provided on a neck 255 of the second container 250.
  • the second cap 254 in the connected state, is accommodated in the recess 216 of the first container 210, thereby removably connecting the first container 210 and the second container 250 into a connected system.
  • the size and shape of the second cap 254 corresponds to the size and shape of the recess 216.
  • the recess 216 is a circular or dome shape.
  • the second cap 254 and recess 216 are connected by a snap fit mechanism.
  • the second cap 254 and recess 216 are connected by a friction fit mechanism.
  • the second cap 254 and recess 216 are connected by being screwed together.
  • the second cap 254 is round with a flat top so as to fit securely within the recess 216.
  • the connection between the first container 210 and the second container 250 is secure such that the containers will remain as a connected system during ordinary use.
  • the connection between the first container 110 and the second container 150 is not secure and is for stacking during storing.
  • the connected container system 20 may be stored in the connected state or in the detached state.
  • the bottom portion 256 of the second container 250 includes a recess so that the first cap 214 can be accommodated in the recess of the second container 250.
  • the second container 250 is provided on top of the first container 210.
  • Figures 7 and 8 illustrate the first container 210 and the second container 250 in a detached state according to the second embodiment. In the detached state, the first container 210 is separated from the second container 250 with the use of ordinary force. The first container 210 and the second container 250 may be stored independently and the contents of each may be accessed independently in the detached state.
  • Figures 9-12 illustrates a connected container system 30 in a connected state according to a third embodiment.
  • Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of the connected container system 30 in the connected state according to the third embodiment.
  • Figure 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connected container system 30 in the connected state according to the third embodiment.
  • the third embodiment includes a first container 310 having a top portion 311 , a bottom portion 312, and a side wall portion 313.
  • the first container 310 includes a recess 316 in the bottom portion 312.
  • the third embodiment also includes a second container 350 having a top portion 351, a bottom portion 352, and a side wall portion 353.
  • the first container 310 includes a neck portion 315 wherein a first cap 314 may be provided.
  • the second container 350 includes a neck portion 355 wherein a second cap 354 may be provided.
  • the second cap 354 in the connected state, is accommodated in the recess 316 of the first container 310, thereby removably connecting the first container 310 and the second container 350 into a connected system.
  • the size and shape of the second cap 354 corresponds to the size and shape of the recess 316.
  • the recess 316 is a circular or dome shape.
  • the second cap 354 is round with a flat top so as to fit securely within the recess 316.
  • the second cap 354 and recess 316 are connected by a snap fit mechanism.
  • the second cap 354 and recess 316 are connected by a friction fit mechanism.
  • the second cap 354 and recess 316 are connected by being screwed together.
  • connection between the first container 310 and the second container 350 is secure such that the containers will remain as a connected system during ordinary use.
  • the connection between the first container 110 and the second container 150 is not secure and is for stacking during storing.
  • the second container 350 does not include a second cap 354.
  • the neck 355 of the second container 350 is accommodating in the recess 316 of the first container 310, thereby removably connecting the first container 310 and the second container 350 into a connected system.
  • the neck 355 may be connected to the recess 316 by a friction fit mechanism, a snap fit mechanism, or by bring screwed together.
  • the bottom portion 312 of the first container 310 serves to cover the cavity 357 of the second container 350. In this embodiment, less material is used to create both containers since a second cap354 is not required for the second container 350. Therefore, this is a more sustainable packaging option as compared to traditional containers that require more material and create more waste.
  • the contents of the first container 310 can be accessed by removing the first cap 314 and accessing the cavity 317 wherein the contents are held.
  • the contents of the second container 350 may be accessed by separating second container 350 and the first container 310, removing the second cap 354 if present, and accessing the cavity 357 wherein contents may be held.
  • a locking mechanism is provided in the connected container system 10, 20, 30 to prevent the containers from separating, turning, or misaligning at any point during storage or operation.
  • the locking mechanism includes a ridge on the second cap 154, 154, 354 on the second container 150, 250, 350 and a corresponding cut-out in the recess 116, 216, 316 in the bottom portion of the first container 110, 210, 310.
  • the ridge may be included on the neck 155, 255, 355. The ridge and the cut-out engage and create a mechanical stop to lock the containers together and prevent them from turning, separating, or misaligning during storage or operation.
  • first container 110, 120, 130 and the second container 150, 250, 350 are cylindrical with side walls that are straight. In another embodiment, the first container 110, 120, 130 and the second container 150, 250, 350 are circular and have curved or rounded side walls.
  • the first container 110, 210, 310 and the second container 150, 250, 350 may be rigid, and the side walls may maintain their shape when pressure is applied.
  • the first container 110, 210, 310 and the second container 150, 250, 350 may be flexible, and the side walls may be deformable and squeezed in order to dispense contents.
  • the containers 110, 150, 210, 250, 310, 350 may be any suitable shape and size to accommodate the contents held within.
  • the first container 110, 210, 310 may be the same shape or a different shape than the second container 150, 250, 350.
  • the contents may be in various forms and selected from group comprising tablets, gummies, gel, lotion, cream, oil, emulsion, ointment, and powder.
  • the contents held in the containers is a multivitamin or nutritional supplement product.
  • the contents in the first container 110, 210, 310 and the second container 150, 250, 350 may be AM and PM multivitamin or nutritional supplement products.
  • either the first or the second container holds the Centrum® AM product, and the other container holds the Centrum® PM formulation.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Stackable Containers (AREA)

Abstract

A connected container system comprising: a first container having at least a top portion, a bottom portion, and a side wall portion defining a cavity wherein contents may be held, wherein the first container has a recess on the bottom portion, a second container having at least a top portion, a bottom portion, and a side wall portion defining a cavity wherein contents may be held. a portion of the second container is accommodated in the recess of the first container in order to removably connect the first container and the second container into a connected system.

Description

A CONNECTED CONTAINER SYSTEM
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is related to and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63/292,071 filed December 21, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a connected container system including a first container and a second container, wherein the first container and the second container are removably connected to create a connected system.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Containers provide a hygienic and convenient way to dispense contents stored within the containers. Such containers are readily used with pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and the food industry. In conventional containers, a separate and independently operating container is required for each product or for each content.
[0004] Frequently, there are corresponding contents that may be related and used together as part of a single regime. For these products, it is convenient for the products to be provided in a single system while keeping the contents separate to prevent contamination. A single dispensing and storing system is more convenient for the user and would ensure greater compliance with the regime. Additionally, the combined system is easier to store and takes up less space during storage, while also using less material and being a more sustainable option. Therefore, there is a need for a connected container system that connects two separate containers for different contents into a single system.
SUMMARY
[0005] Aspects of the prevent invention are directed to a connected container system comprising: a first container having at least a top portion, a bottom portion, and a side wall portion defining a cavity wherein contents may be held, wherein the first container has a recess on the bottom portion, a second container having at least a top portion, a bottom portion, and a side wall portion defining a cavity wherein contents may be held, wherein a portion of the second container is accommodated in the recess of the first container, thereby removably connecting the first container and the second container into a connected system. [00061 Aspects of the present invention are further directed to the bottom portion of the second container including a protrusion that is accommodated in the recess of the first container to removably connect the first container and the second container. Aspects of the present invention are directed to the second container including an annular neck portion that serves as the sole opening for the passage of contents out of the cavity of the second container. Aspects of the present invention are directed to the next being accommodated in the recess of the first container to removably connect the first container and the second container.
[0007] Aspects of the present invention are further directed to the first container including a first cap and the second container including a second cap, wherein the first cap and the second cap are provided over the cavity of the first container and the second container respectively. Aspects of the present invention are further directed to the second cap being accommodated in the recess of the first container to removably connect the first container and the second container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0008} FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a connected container system according to a first embodiment in a connected state;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the connected container system according to the first embodiment in the connected state;
[0010] FIG. 3 is a front view of a first container of the connected container system according to the first embodiment;
[0011] FIG. 4 is front view of a second container of the connected container system according to the first embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a connected container system according to a second embodiment in a connected state;
[0013} FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the connected container system according to the second embodiment in the connected state;
[001 ] FIG. 7 is a front view of a first container of the connected container system according to the second embodiment; [0015[ FIG. 8 is a front view of a second container of the connected container system according to the second embodiment;
[0016| FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a connected container system according to a third embodiment in a connected state;
|0017[ FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the connected container system according to the third embodiment in the connected state;
[0018J FIG. 11 is a front view of a first container of the connected container system according to the third embodiment;
[00191 FIG. 12 is a front view of a second container of the connected container system according to the third embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00201 Aspects of the present invention are directed to a connected container system that conveniently stores two different contents via two separate connected containers. The connected container system according to the invention includes at least two containers that are removably connected into a system. The contents stored in the containers may be complementary and used together routinely.
[0021 [ The connected container system uses less material and is more sustainable as compared to two separate containers traditionally used to store and dispense two separate contents. Further, the connected container system allows a user to easily access both contents conveniently in one system. Therefore, the connected container system is a more convenient, user friendly, and sustainable packaging option. The connected container system also ensure compliance with a health regime where two complementary products are needed by storing the products conveniently in a single system.
[0022[ Figures 1 - 12 are based upon engineering drawings used for the development and representation of a connected container system and represents the various embodiments of the present invention. Hence, the drawings are to scale and representative of the geometry of the connected container system.
|0023] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate an exemplary connected container system 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of the connected container system 10 in a connected state according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connected container system 10 in a connected state according to the first embodiment. The connected container system 10 includes a first container 110 and a second container 150. The first container 110 includes a bottom portion 112, a top portion 111, and a side wall portion 113 defining a cavity 117 wherein contents may be held. The second container 150 includes a top portion 151, a bottom portion 152, and a side wall portion 153 defining a cavity 157 wherein contents may be held.
[00241 The top portion 111 of the first container 110 includes an annular neck 115 which is hollow and serves as the sole opening for the passage of contents out of the cavity 117 of the first container 110. A first cap 114 may be provided on the neck 115 of the first container 110 so as to close the opening to the cavity 117.
|0025[ The first cap 114 may be secured to the first container 110 in any manner known in the art. In an embodiment, the first cap 114 may be secured to the first container 110 by being screwed onto threads provided on the neck 115. In another embodiment, the first cap 114 may be snap fitted to the neck 115 of the first container 110.
[0026] The bottom portion 112 of the first container 110 includes a recess 116. In an embodiment, the recess 116 is a circular cavity. The recess 116 includes a side wall 116a which extends down from the top of the recess 116 to the bottom 112 of the first container 110.
[0027] The bottom portion 152 of the second container 150 includes a protrusion 556 which corresponds in shape and size to the shape and size of the recess 116 of the first container. The protrusion 556 extends downwards from the bottom portion 152 of the second container 150 when the second container 150 is right side up.
[0028] The top portion 151 of the second container 150 includes an annular neck 155 which is hollow and serves as the sole opening for the passage of contents out the cavity 157 of the second container 150. A second cap 154 may be provided on the neck 155 of the second container 150 so as to close the opening to the cavity. The second cap 154 may be secured to the second container 150 in any manner known in the art. In an embodiment, the second cap 154 may be secured to the second container 150 by being screwed onto threads provided on the neck 154. In another embodiment, the second cap 154 may be snap fitted to the neck of the second container. [0029] In the connected state, the protrusion 156 of the second container 150 is accommodated in the recess 116 of the first container 110, thereby removably connecting the first container 110 and the second container 150 into a connected system. In an embodiment, the protrusion 156 and the recess 116 are connected by a snap fit mechanism. In another embodiment, the protrusion 156 and recess 116 are connected by a friction fit. In an embodiment, the connection between the first container 110 and the second container 150 is secure such that the containers will remain as a connected system during ordinary use. In another embodiment, the connection between the first container 110 and the second container 150 is not secure and is for stacking during storing.
[0030] In the connected state, in a first orientation, the first container 110 is provided on top of the second container 150 with respect to the vertical access. In this orientation, the first container 110 is right side up and the second container 150 is upside down. In a second orientation in the connected state, the second container 150 is provided on top of the first container 110 with respect to the vertical access. In this orientation, the second container 150 is right side up and the first container 110 is upside down.
[0031 ] During use in the connected state, the user may open the cap 114, 154 and access the contents of the container 110, 150 that is on top with respect to the vertical access. Thereafter, the user may rotate the connected container system 10 180° and open the cap 114, 154 to access the contents of the other container 110, 150. The connected container system 10 may be stored in the first orientation or the second orientation when not in use. Storing the connected container system in the connected state provides easier storage and more convenient access to both contents in a single system.
[0032] Figures 3 and 4 illustrate a front view of the first container 110 and the second container 150 in a detached state according to the first embodiment. The first container 110 and the second container 150 are removably connected such that protrusion 156 may be removed from the recess 116 to separate the first container 110 and the second container 150. The containers 110, 150 may be separated with the use of ordinary force. In the detached state, the first container 110 and the second container 150 may be stored independently, and the contents of each container may continue to be accessed independently. When not in use, the connected container system 10 may be stored in the connected state or in the detached state.
[0033] Figures 5 - 8 illustrate a connected container system 20 in a connected state according to a second embodiment. Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the connected container system 20 in the connected state according to the second embodiment. Figure 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connected container system 20 in the connected state according to the second embodiment.
[0034] The second embodiment includes a first container 210 having a top portion 211, a bottom portion 212, and a side wall portion 213. The first container 210 includes a recess 216 in the bottom portion 212. The second embodiment also includes a second container 250 having a top portion 251, a bottom portion 252, and a side wall portion 253. The connected container system 20 according to the second embodiment further includes a first cap 214 provided on a neck 215 of the first container 210 and a second cap 254 provided on a neck 255 of the second container 250.
[0035] In this embodiment, in the connected state, the second cap 254 is accommodated in the recess 216 of the first container 210, thereby removably connecting the first container 210 and the second container 250 into a connected system. In an embodiment, the size and shape of the second cap 254 corresponds to the size and shape of the recess 216. In an embodiment, the recess 216 is a circular or dome shape. In an embodiment, the second cap 254 and recess 216 are connected by a snap fit mechanism. In another embodiment, the second cap 254 and recess 216 are connected by a friction fit mechanism. In another embodiment, the second cap 254 and recess 216 are connected by being screwed together. In an embodiment, the second cap 254 is round with a flat top so as to fit securely within the recess 216. In an embodiment, the connection between the first container 210 and the second container 250 is secure such that the containers will remain as a connected system during ordinary use. In another embodiment, the connection between the first container 110 and the second container 150 is not secure and is for stacking during storing.
[0036 [ The contents of the first container 210 can be accessed by removing the first cap
214 and accessing the cavity 217 wherein the contents may be held. The contents of the second container 250 may be accessed by separating the second container 250 and the first container 210, removing the second cap 254, and accessing the cavity 257 of the second container 250 wherein contents may be held. When not in use, the connected container system 20 may be stored in the connected state or in the detached state.
[0037] In an embodiment, the bottom portion 256 of the second container 250 includes a recess so that the first cap 214 can be accommodated in the recess of the second container 250. In this arrangement, the second container 250 is provided on top of the first container 210. [0038] Figures 7 and 8 illustrate the first container 210 and the second container 250 in a detached state according to the second embodiment. In the detached state, the first container 210 is separated from the second container 250 with the use of ordinary force. The first container 210 and the second container 250 may be stored independently and the contents of each may be accessed independently in the detached state.
[0039] Figures 9-12 illustrates a connected container system 30 in a connected state according to a third embodiment. Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of the connected container system 30 in the connected state according to the third embodiment. Figure 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connected container system 30 in the connected state according to the third embodiment.
[0040] The third embodiment includes a first container 310 having a top portion 311 , a bottom portion 312, and a side wall portion 313. The first container 310 includes a recess 316 in the bottom portion 312. The third embodiment also includes a second container 350 having a top portion 351, a bottom portion 352, and a side wall portion 353. The first container 310 includes a neck portion 315 wherein a first cap 314 may be provided. The second container 350 includes a neck portion 355 wherein a second cap 354 may be provided.
[0041 ] In an embodiment, in the connected state, the second cap 354 is accommodated in the recess 316 of the first container 310, thereby removably connecting the first container 310 and the second container 350 into a connected system. The size and shape of the second cap 354 corresponds to the size and shape of the recess 316. In an embodiment, the recess 316 is a circular or dome shape. In an embodiment, the second cap 354 is round with a flat top so as to fit securely within the recess 316. In an embodiment, the second cap 354 and recess 316 are connected by a snap fit mechanism. In another embodiment, the second cap 354 and recess 316 are connected by a friction fit mechanism. In another embodiment, the second cap 354 and recess 316 are connected by being screwed together.
[0042] In an embodiment, the connection between the first container 310 and the second container 350 is secure such that the containers will remain as a connected system during ordinary use. In another embodiment, the connection between the first container 110 and the second container 150 is not secure and is for stacking during storing.
[0043] In an embodiment, the second container 350 does not include a second cap 354. In this embodiment, the neck 355 of the second container 350 is accommodating in the recess 316 of the first container 310, thereby removably connecting the first container 310 and the second container 350 into a connected system. The neck 355 may be connected to the recess 316 by a friction fit mechanism, a snap fit mechanism, or by bring screwed together. In this embodiment, the bottom portion 312 of the first container 310 serves to cover the cavity 357 of the second container 350. In this embodiment, less material is used to create both containers since a second cap354 is not required for the second container 350. Therefore, this is a more sustainable packaging option as compared to traditional containers that require more material and create more waste.
[00441 In the connected state, the contents of the first container 310 can be accessed by removing the first cap 314 and accessing the cavity 317 wherein the contents are held. The contents of the second container 350 may be accessed by separating second container 350 and the first container 310, removing the second cap 354 if present, and accessing the cavity 357 wherein contents may be held.
[0045] In an embodiment, a locking mechanism is provided in the connected container system 10, 20, 30 to prevent the containers from separating, turning, or misaligning at any point during storage or operation. The locking mechanism includes a ridge on the second cap 154, 154, 354 on the second container 150, 250, 350 and a corresponding cut-out in the recess 116, 216, 316 in the bottom portion of the first container 110, 210, 310. In an embodiment, the ridge may be included on the neck 155, 255, 355. The ridge and the cut-out engage and create a mechanical stop to lock the containers together and prevent them from turning, separating, or misaligning during storage or operation.
[0046] In an embodiment, the first container 110, 120, 130 and the second container 150, 250, 350 are cylindrical with side walls that are straight. In another embodiment, the first container 110, 120, 130 and the second container 150, 250, 350 are circular and have curved or rounded side walls.
[0047] In an embodiment, the first container 110, 210, 310 and the second container 150, 250, 350 may be rigid, and the side walls may maintain their shape when pressure is applied. In another embodiment, the first container 110, 210, 310 and the second container 150, 250, 350 may be flexible, and the side walls may be deformable and squeezed in order to dispense contents. The containers 110, 150, 210, 250, 310, 350 may be any suitable shape and size to accommodate the contents held within. The first container 110, 210, 310 may be the same shape or a different shape than the second container 150, 250, 350. [0048 [ In an embodiment of the present invention, the contents may be in various forms and selected from group comprising tablets, gummies, gel, lotion, cream, oil, emulsion, ointment, and powder. In an embodiment, the contents held in the containers is a multivitamin or nutritional supplement product. In an embodiment, the contents in the first container 110, 210, 310 and the second container 150, 250, 350 may be AM and PM multivitamin or nutritional supplement products. In an embodiment, either the first or the second container holds the Centrum® AM product, and the other container holds the Centrum® PM formulation.
[0049[ Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:
1. A connected container system comprising: a first container having at least a top portion, a bottom portion, and a side wall portion defining a cavity wherein contents may be held, wherein the first container has a recess on the bottom portion; a second container having at least a top portion, a bottom portion, and a side wall portion defining a cavity wherein contents may be held, wherein a portion of the second container is accommodated in the recess of the first container, thereby removably connecting the first container and the second container into a connected system.
2. The connected container system according to claim 1, wherein the bottom portion of the second container includes a protrusion that is accommodated in the recess of the first container to removably connect the first container and the second container.
3. The connected container system according to claim 1, wherein the second container includes an annular neck portion that serves as the sole opening for the passage of contents out of the cavity of the second container.
4. The connected container system according to claim 1, wherein the neck is accommodated in the recess of the first container to removably connect the first container and the second container.
5. The connected container system according to claim 1, wherein the first container includes a first cap and the second container includes a second cap, wherein the first cap and the second cap are provided over the cavity of the first container and the second container respectively.
6. The connected container system according to claim 1, wherein the second cap is accommodated in the recess of the first container to removably connect the first container and the second container.
PCT/US2022/079423 2021-12-21 2022-11-08 A connected container system WO2023122387A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US202163292071P 2021-12-21 2021-12-21
US63/292,071 2021-12-21

Publications (1)

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WO2023122387A1 true WO2023122387A1 (en) 2023-06-29

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Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20060049127A1 (en) * 2004-09-09 2006-03-09 Liran Katz Container
US20130134161A1 (en) * 2011-11-30 2013-05-30 Lawrence Fogel Dual compartment package for dispensing fluids
US8544649B2 (en) * 2004-11-20 2013-10-01 Consolidated Container Company Lp Stackable containers and methods of manufacturing, stacking, and shipping the same
US10730682B2 (en) * 2015-06-16 2020-08-04 Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Gmbh Connecting and container system
WO2020192466A1 (en) * 2019-03-26 2020-10-01 曹致伟 Combined bottle set
WO2021148531A1 (en) * 2020-01-24 2021-07-29 Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Gmbh Connecting arrangement, connecting system, container and container system

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20060049127A1 (en) * 2004-09-09 2006-03-09 Liran Katz Container
US8544649B2 (en) * 2004-11-20 2013-10-01 Consolidated Container Company Lp Stackable containers and methods of manufacturing, stacking, and shipping the same
US20130134161A1 (en) * 2011-11-30 2013-05-30 Lawrence Fogel Dual compartment package for dispensing fluids
US10730682B2 (en) * 2015-06-16 2020-08-04 Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Gmbh Connecting and container system
WO2020192466A1 (en) * 2019-03-26 2020-10-01 曹致伟 Combined bottle set
WO2021148531A1 (en) * 2020-01-24 2021-07-29 Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Gmbh Connecting arrangement, connecting system, container and container system

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