FIBER PACKAGES, CONTAINERS, AND CLOSURES

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to packaging and in particular, fiber-based or pulp-formed containers and closures.

BACKGROUND

Fiber-based or pulp-formed containers are formed from two molded halves. This may lead to issues with sealing content in the containers, i.e., having no content leakage from the container.

Moreover, fiber-based or pulp-formed containers lack manufacturing tolerance. For example, plastic based containers have +/−7 thousandth of an inch tolerance whereas fiber-based or pulp-formed containers have +/−70 thousandth of an inch tolerance, a factor of 10 times looser tolerances. Consequently, measures have to be taken to address closure and sealing issues.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein are methods and apparatus for implementing fiber-based or pulp-formed containers, closures, and packages which can contain content without leakage therefrom.

In an aspect, a container includes a closure including a closure sealing surface, a molded fiber container body, and a collar bonded to the molded fiber container body, the collar configured to provide a sealing surface corresponding to the closure sealing surface to seal the container when the closure is attached to the bonded collar and molded fiber container body.

In another aspect, a container includes a pair of molded fiber container halves and an interconnection mechanism configured to bond the pair of container halves to form a molded fiber container body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and are incorporated into and thus constitute a part of this specification. It is emphasized that, according to common practice, the various features of the drawings are not to-scale. On the contrary, the dimensions of the various features are arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity.

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an example of a container in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container of FIG. 2 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along a seam of the container of FIG. 2 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 5A and 5B are diagrams of an example of a container in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 5C is a molded fiber container with container halves joined together as described with respect to FIG. 5A and 5B.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of an example of another interlocking tab in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of an example of another interlocking tab in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 8A is a diagram of an example of an outer flange in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 8B is a diagram of an example of the outer flange of FIG. 8A after bonded in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 9 is a diagram of an example of an inner flange in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 10 is a diagram of an example of an adhesive bath in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 11 is a diagram of an example of fusing in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example container with a middle latch in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along a seam of the container of FIG. 12 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container of FIG. 12 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 15 is an exploded cross-sectional view taken along an off-scam of the container of FIG. 12 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional top view of the container of FIG. 12 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an example container with a bottom latch in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along a seam of the container of FIG. 17 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container of FIG. 17 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 20 is an exploded cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container of FIG. 17 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional top view of the container of FIG. 17 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an example container with a folded bottom latch in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 23 is an exploded view taken of a folded tab of the container of FIG. 22 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along a seam of the container of FIG. 22 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container of FIG. 22 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 26 is an exploded cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container of FIG. 22 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional top view of the container of FIG. 22 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an example container with a middle latch and a bottom latch in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along a seam of the container of FIG. 28 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container of FIG. 28 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 31 is an exploded cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container of FIG. 28 in accordance with implementations.

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional top view of the container of FIG. 28 in accordance with implementations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The figures and descriptions provided herein may be simplified to illustrate aspects of the described embodiments that are relevant for a clear understanding of the herein disclosed processes, machines, manufactures, and/or compositions of matter, while eliminating for the purpose of clarity other aspects that may be found in typical similar devices, systems, compositions and methods. Those of ordinary skill may thus recognize that other elements and/or steps may be desirable or necessary to implement the devices, systems, compositions, and methods described herein. However, because such elements and steps are well known in the art, and because they do not facilitate a better understanding of the disclosed embodiments, a discussion of such elements and steps may not be provided herein. However, the present disclosure is deemed to inherently include all such elements, variations, and modifications to the described aspects that would be known to those of ordinary skill in the pertinent art in light of the discussion herein.

Embodiments are provided throughout so that this disclosure is sufficiently thorough and fully conveys the scope of the disclosed embodiments to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth, such as examples of specific aspects, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. Nevertheless, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain specific disclosed details need not be employed, and that embodiments may be embodied in different forms. As such, the exemplary embodiments set forth should not be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. For example, as used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

The steps, processes, and operations described herein are thus not to be construed as necessarily requiring their respective performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as a preferred or required order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed, in place of or in conjunction with the disclosed aspects.

Yet further, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, steps or aspects, these elements, steps, or aspects should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element or aspect from another. Thus, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, step, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, step, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.

The non-limiting embodiments described herein are with respect to fiber-based or pulp-formed packages including, but not limited to, containers and closures. The packages and methods for making the packages may be modified for a variety of applications and uses while remaining within the spirit and scope of the claims. The embodiments and variations described herein, and/or shown in the drawings, are presented by way of example only and are not limiting as to the scope and spirit. The descriptions herein may be applicable to all embodiments of the packages and the methods for making the packages.

Disclosed herein are implementations of fiber-based or pulp-formed packages, containers, and closures. The implementations shown are illustrative and other implementations are within the scope of the specification and claims described herein. For purposes of illustration, certain aspects, features, and the like are described with respect to implementations. These aspects, features, and the like are appropriately applicable to and interchangeable with other implementations described herein.

In implementations, injection molding (IM), die cutting, compression blow molding, thermoform molding, other like processing, and combinations thereof (collectively “structure forming process”) can be used to form container halves, cap, closure, collar or collar structure, container body, and the like (collectively “structure” or “molded part or portion”). In implementations, injection molding (IM), in-mold labeling (IML), heat, induction, mechanical, staking, ultrasonic, adhesive or chemical bonding, and combinations thereof (collectively “join processing”) can be used to fuse, weld, or bond (collectively “bond”) one structure with another structure and/or bond a label, tape, film, or the like with a structure to create a container which can hold content or materials. In implementations, the bonding can include application of pressure, temperature, and/or combinations thereof. In implementations, the container is an integrally, hermetically sealed package. In implementations, the container can be configured to contain liquid, powder, or non-dry content or materials.

In implementations, the bonding results in edge(s) of the tape, for example, being intermingled, impregnated, encapsulated, embedded, or coated with the material of the structure to form a sealed edge at junctions between the structure and the tape. The sealed edges prevent leakage of content from the container.

In implementations, the structure forming materials, such as a fiber or pulp slurry, can be embedded or impregnated with an adhesive or resin which during the join processing can bond the structure as described herein.

In implementations, the structure or molded part or portion can be made from sustainable materials, recyclable materials, biodegradable materials, bio-based resins, paperboard, pressed pulp, fiber based, pressed fiber, paper, starch, cellulose, biodegradable resins such as Polylactic acid (PLA), Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), Polyethylene Furanoate (PEF), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), and the like (collectively “structure forming materials”).

In implementations, a container, for example, can have an oval, circular, and/or like profile or footprint.

In implementations, the package, container, and/or closure is recyclable.

In implementations, a barrier layer or film can be provided on an internal or inside surface of a container, where the barrier layer is impervious to the content or material in container and chemically inert with respect to the content or material in the container. In implementations, the barrier layer or can be an integrated or integrally formed barrier layer or film with the structure forming materials.

In implementations, the containers can implement any combination of interlocking elements or components described herein to mechanically bond container halves.

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an example of a container 1000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the container 1000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container 1000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along a seam of the container 1000 in accordance with implementations. The container 1000 is a basic container absent the latching mechanisms described herein.

The container 1000 includes container halves 1100 and 1150, a collar 1200, and a cap or closure (collectively “closure”) 1300. In some implementations, the container 1000 includes a tape 1400. The closure 1300 is generally contoured to mate with a container body consisting of the bonded container halves and with the collar 1200 bonded to the container body. The container halves 1100, the collar 1200, and the closure 1300 can be a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. Each of the container halves 1100 can include interlocking components as described with respect to FIGS. 5-11. The container halves 1100 and 1150 each include a wall 1111 and 1151, respectively. The walls 1111 and 1151 can provide diametric alignment between the container body and the closure 1300 when latching the closure 1300 to the container body. The closure 1300 can be opened and latched multiple times and as needed. That is, the closure 1300 can be releasably attached to the collar 1200 bonded to the container body.

FIG. 5A and 5B are diagrams of an example of a container 5000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 5C is a molded fiber container 5050 with container halves joined together as described herein with respect to FIG. 5A and 5B.

The container 5000 includes container halves 5100 and 5200 which are mechanically bonded together with interlocking tabs 5300 interlocking with mated slots 5400, with interlocking tabs 5500 interlocking with mated slots 5600, and with a tab or tongue 5700 interconnected with a groove 5800. Each of the container halves 5100 and 5200 has an edge 5110 and 5210, respectively, which is formed with one of the interlocking tabs 5300 and 5500 and another edge 5120 and 5220, respectively, which is formed with a remaining one of the interlocking tabs 5300 and 5500. Each of the edges 5110 and 5210 is also formed with one of the mated slots 5400 and 5600 and each of the edges 5120 and 5220 is also formed with a remaining one of the mated slots 5400 and 5600. A base 5130 of the container half 5200 includes the tab or tongue 5700 with interconnects with the groove 5800 formed on a base 5140 of the container half 5100.

In some implementations, a tape, such as the tape 1400 is bonded to a seam or join area along respective edges 5110, 5120, 5210, and 5220 where the interlocking tabs 5300 arc interconnected to the mated slots 5400 and the interlocking tabs 5500 are interconnected to the mated slots 5600. The tape forms a seal which prevents leakage from the container 5000 from gaps present in the mechanical bond formed by the interlocking tabs 5300 and the mated slots 5400 and the interlocking tabs 5500 and the mated slots 5600. In some implementations, the tape can be bonded on an external seam area surface of the container 5000, an internal seam area surface of the container 5000, or combinations thereof. In some implementations, as described with respect to FIGS. 10 and 11, the interlocking tabs 5300, the mated slots 5400, the interlocking tabs 5500, and the mated slots 5600 can be impregnated with, bathed in, or coated with an adhesive, resin, or other sealant material (collectively “sealant material”). In this instance, the mechanical bond formed by the interlocking tabs 5300 and the mated slots 5400 and the interlocking tabs 5500 and the mated slots 5600 result in no gaps and the tape is not needed. Similarly, a seam area formed on the interconnected base 5130 and 5140 can be taped, impregnated, bathed, or coated as described herein.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of an example of a container 6000 using an interlocking step 6100 in accordance with implementations. The interlocking step 6100 enables container halves 6200 and 6250 to be mechanically bonded. In some implementations, a tape, such as the tape 1400 is bonded to a seam area associated with the interlocking step 6100 to form a seal which prevents leakage from the container 6000 from gaps present in the mechanically bonded interlocking step 6100. In some implementations, the tape can be bonded on an external seam area surface of the container 6000, an internal seam area surface of the container 6000, or combinations thereof. In some implementations, as described with respect to FIGS. 10 and 11, the interlocking step 6100 can be bathed in or coated with the sealant material. In this instance, the mechanically bonded interlocking step 6100 results in no gaps and the tape is not needed.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of an example of a container 7000 with angled interlocking tabs 7100 in accordance with implementations. The angled interlocking tabs 7100 enable container halves 7200 and 7250 to be mechanically bonded. In some implementations, a tape, such as the tape 1400 is bonded to a seam area associated with the angled interlocking tabs 7100 to form a seal which prevents leakage from the container 7000 from gaps present in the mechanically bonded angled interlocking tabs 7100. In some implementations, the tape can be bonded on an external seam area surface of the container 7000, an internal seam area surface of the container 7000, or combinations thereof. In some implementations, as described with respect to FIGS. 10 and 11, the angled interlocking tabs 7100 can be bathed in or coated with the sealant material. In this instance, the mechanically bonded angled interlocking tabs 7100 result in no gaps and the tape is not needed.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are diagrams of an example of a container 8000 with an outer flange 8100 in accordance with implementations. The outer flange 8100 enables container halves 8200 and 8250 to be mechanically bonded at seam or join area. A sealant material 8300 is inserted or placed in the outer flange 8100, which is formed when the container halves 8200 and 8250 are positioned adjacently. After insertion of the sealant material 8300, the outer flange 8100 is removed, for example, by cutting or by another mechanical action. The sealant material 8300 prevents leakage from the container 8000 at the seam or join area.

FIG. 9 is a diagram of an example of a container 9000 with an inner flange 9100 in accordance with implementations. The inner flange 9100 enables container halves 9200 and 9250 to be mechanically bonded at seam or join area. A sealant material 9300 is inserted or placed in the outer flange 8100, which is formed when the container halves 9200 and 9250 are positioned adjacently. The sealant material 9300 prevents leakage from the container 9000 at the seam or join area.

FIG. 10 is a diagram of an example of a sealant material bath 10000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 11 is a diagram of an example of bonding container halves 11000 and 11100 after placement in the sealant material bath 10000 in accordance with implementations. The sealant material bath 10000 includes sealant material 10100. In some implementations, a container half 10200 can be placed in the sealant material bath 10000 to coat edges 10300 with the sealant material 10100. The sealant material coated container halves, such as the container halves 11000 and 11100 are bonded together using the sealant material 10100.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-4 and the applicable interlocking mechanisms described in FIGS. 5-11, the container halves 1100 and 1150 can be mechanically bonded as described herein to form a container body. In some implementations, edges of the container halves 1100 and 1150 can coated with a sealant material as described herein. Accordingly, the mechanical bonding process also results in a sealant material bond. In these instances, no further action is needed to seal the resulting container against leakage. In some implementations, the tape 1400 is bonded to an external or internal seam or joint area as described herein to prevent leakage. The tape 1400 extends from a neck 1110 down one side of the container 1000, across a base 1130, up an opposite side of the container 1000, and back to the neck 1110.

The collar 1200 is bonded to the neck 1110 of the container 1000 using join processing. In some implementations, the collar 1200 has a s-shaped profile or cross-section. The collar 1200 can include a first horizontal section 1210, a vertical section 1220, and a second horizontal section 1230. The first horizontal section 1210 can provide a sealing surface 1212 for the closure 1300. In some implementations, a foil, paper liner, or like layer (collectively “paper liner”) can be bonded to the first horizontal section 1210 after placement of contents in the container 1000. Containers molded from fiber, pulp, and/or similar materials lack a smooth sealable surface against which the paper liner and/or the closure 1300 can seal. In some implementations, the vertical section 1220 can provide a secondary or redundant sealing surface for the closure 1300 as described herein. In some implementations, the second horizontal section 1230 can enable a latching mechanism for the closure 1300 as described herein.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example container 12000 with a middle latch in accordance with implementations. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along a seam or join area of the container 12000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container 12000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 15 is an exploded cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container 12000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional top view of the container 12000 in accordance with implementations. The container 12000 includes the description with respect to FIGS. 1-11 as appropriate and applicable in view of the context.

The container 12000 includes a container body 12100, a collar 12200, a closure 12300, and a tape 12400. In some implementations, the tape 12400 is not needed depending on the joining mechanism used, as described herein with respect to FIGS. 1-11, for joining the container halves that constitute the container body 12100. The container body 12100, the collar 12200, and the closure 12300 can each be a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The container body 12100 and the collar 12200 are bonded as described herein. The closure 12300 is generally contoured to follow or mate with the bonded combination of the container body 12100 and the collar 12200. The container body 12100 includes a pair of walls 12110 and 12112. The walls 12110 and 12112 can provide diametric alignment between the container body 12100 and the closure 12300 when latching the closure 12300 to the container body 12100.

As described herein, the collar 12200 has a s-shaped profile or cross-section which includes a first horizontal section 12210, a vertical section 12220, and a second horizontal section 12230. The closure 12300 includes a middle latch mechanism 12310, a first sealing surface 12320, a second or redundant sealing surface 12330, and finger grips 12340. The first sealing surface 12320 is configured to mate with the first horizontal section 12210 to provide a first seal when the closure 12300 is latched or attached to the container body 12100 (i.e., a closed container configuration). The second or redundant sealing surface 12330 is configured to mate with the vertical section 12220 when the closure 12300 is latched to the container body 12100. An inner surface of the second or redundant sealing surface 12330 is configured to diametrically seal with an outer surface of the vertical section 12220. In some implementations, the closure 12300 can exclude the second or redundant sealing surface 12330 (as shown for example in FIG. 3).

The middle latch mechanism 12310 is implemented with an inward contoured, recessed, or depressed section (collectively “middle latch section”) 12312 and 12314 in the closure 12300, which is configured to latch with the container body 12100 by fitting under the second horizontal section 12230 and above a respective wall 12110 and 12112 when the closure 12300 is latched to the container body 12100. In some implementations, the closure 12300 can be opened or unlatched from the container body 12100 (i.e., an open container configuration) by squeezing or pinching the finger grips 12340 toward each other. This causes the middle latch section 12312 and 12314 to disengage, unlatch, or move away (collectively “unlatch”) from the container body 12100 such that the closure 12300 can be lifted up without the middle latch section 12312 and 12314 hitting the second horizontal section 12230. In some implementations, the closure 12300 can be opened or unlatched from the container body 12100 by twisting the closure 12300 on the container body 12100, which causes the middle latch section 12312 and 12314 to cam or cantilever off of the container body 12100, and then by lifting the closure 12300 up and away from the container body 12100.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an example container 17000 with a bottom latch in accordance with implementations. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along a seam or join area of the container 17000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container 17000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 20 is an exploded cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container 17000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional top view of the container 17000 in accordance with implementations. The container 17000 includes the description with respect to FIGS. 1-11 and 12-16 as appropriate and applicable in view of the context.

The container 17000 includes a container body 17100, a collar 17200, a closure 17300, and a tape 17400. In some implementations, the tape 17400 is not needed depending on the joining mechanism used, as described herein with respect to FIGS. 1-11, for joining the container halves that constitute the container body 17100. The container body 17100, the collar 17200, and the closure 17300 can each be a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The container body 17100 and the collar 17200 are bonded as described herein. The closure 17300 is generally contoured to follow or mate with the bonded combination of the container body 17100 and the collar 17200. The container body 17100 includes a pair of walls 17110 and 17112. The walls 17110 and 17112 can provide diametric alignment between the container body 17100 and the closure 17300 when latching the closure 17300 to the container body 17100.

As described herein, the collar 17200 has a s-shaped profile or cross-section which includes a first horizontal section 17210, a vertical section 17220, and a second horizontal section 17230. The closure 17300 includes a bottom latch mechanism 17310, a first sealing surface 17320, a second or redundant sealing surface 17330, and finger grips 17340. The first sealing surface 17320 is configured to mate with the first horizontal section 17210 to provide a first seal when the closure 17300 is latched or attached to the container body 17100 (i.e., a closed container configuration). The second or redundant sealing surface 17330 is configured to mate with the vertical section 17220 when the closure 17300 is latched to the container body 17100. An inner surface of the second or redundant sealing surface 17330 is configured to diametrically seal with an outer surface of the vertical section 17220. In some implementations, the closure 17300 can exclude the second or redundant sealing surface 17330 (as shown for example in FIG. 3).

The bottom latch mechanism 17310 is implemented with an inward contoured, recessed, or depressed section (collectively “bottom latch section”) 17312 and 17314 of the closure 12700, which is configured to latch with the container body 17100 by fitting or mating with a corresponding wall bottom latch section 17111 and 17113 of respective walls 17110 and 17112 when the closure 17300 is latched to the container body 17100. In some implementations, the closure 17300 can be opened or unlatched from the container body 17100 (i.e., an open container configuration) by squeezing or pinching the finger grips 17340 toward each other. This causes the bottom latch sections 17312 and 17314 to unlatch from the container body 17100 such that the closure 17300 can be lifted up. In some implementations, the closure 17300 can be opened or unlatched from the container body 17100 by twisting the closure 17300 on the container body 17100, which causes the bottom latch section 17312 and 17314 to cam or cantilever off of the container body 17100, and then by lifting the closure 17300 up and away from the container body 17100.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an example container 22000 with a folded latch in accordance with implementations. FIG. 23 is an exploded view of an example of a folded tab in accordance with implementations. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along a seam or join area of the container 22000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container 22000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 26 is an exploded cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container 22000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional top view of the container 22000 in accordance with implementations. The container 22000 includes the description with respect to FIGS. 1-11, 12-16, and 17-21, as appropriate and applicable in view of the context.

The container 22000 includes a container body 22100, a collar 22200, a closure 22300, and a tape 22400. In some implementations, the tape 22400 is not needed depending on the joining mechanism used, as described herein with respect to FIGS. 1-11, for joining the container halves that constitute the container body 22100. The container body 22100, the collar 22200, and the closure 22300 can each be a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The container body 22100 and the collar 22200 are bonded as described herein. The closure 22300 is generally contoured to follow or mate with the bonded combination of the container body 22100 and the collar 22200. The container body 22100 includes a pair of walls 22110 and 22112. The walls 22110 and 22112 can provide diametric alignment between the container body 22100 and the closure 22300 when latching the closure 22300 to the container body 22100.

As described herein, the collar 22200 has a s-shaped profile or cross-section which includes a first horizontal section 22210, a vertical section 22220, and a second horizontal section 22230. The closure 22300 includes a folded latch mechanism 22310, a first sealing surface 22320, a second or redundant sealing surface 22330, and finger grips 22340. The first sealing surface 22320 is configured to mate with the first horizontal section 22210 to provide a first seal when the closure 22300 is latched or attached to the container body 22100 (i.e., a closed container configuration). The second or redundant sealing surface 22330 is configured to mate with the vertical section 22220 when the closure 22300 is latched to the container body 22100. An inner surface of the second or redundant sealing surface 22330 is configured to diametrically seal with an outer surface of the vertical section 22220. In some implementations, the closure 22300 can exclude the second or redundant sealing surface 17330 (as shown for example in FIG. 3).

The folded latch mechanism 22310 is implemented using a pair of folded tabs 22312 and 22314. Each folded tab 22312 and 22314 includes a contoured, recessed, or depressed latch section (collectively “latch section”) 22313 and 22315, respectively. The folded tabs 22312 and 22314 are folded inwardly with respect to the closure 22300 and are configured to latch with the container body 22100 by fitting or mating with a corresponding wall latch section 22111 and 22113 of respective walls 22110 and 22112 when the closure 22300 is latched to the container body 22100. The wall latch section 22111 and 22113 provide vertical alignment between the container body 22100 and the closure 22300 when latching the closure 22300 to the container body 22100, i.e., when each folded tab 22312 and 22314 fits with a respective wall latch section 22111 and 22113. In some implementations, the closure 22300 can be opened or unlatched from the container body 22100 (i.e., an open container configuration) by squeezing or pinching the finger grips 22340 toward each other. This causes the folded tab 22312 and 22314 to unlatch from the container body 22100 such that the closure 22300 can be lifted up. In some implementations, the closure 22300 can be opened or unlatched from the container body 22100 by twisting the closure 22300 on the container body 22100, which causes the folded tab 22312 and 22314 to cam or cantilever off of the container body 22100, and then by lifting the closure 22300 up and away from the container body 22100.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an example container 28000 with a middle and bottom latch in accordance with implementations. FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along a seam or join area of the container 28000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container 28000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 31 is an exploded cross-sectional view taken along an off-seam of the container 28000 in accordance with implementations. FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional top view of the container 28000 in accordance with implementations. The container 28000 includes the description with respect to FIGS. 1-11, 12-16, 17-21, and 22-27, as appropriate and applicable in view of the context.

The container 28000 includes a container body 28100, a collar 28200, a closure 28300, and a tape 28400. In some implementations, the tape 28400 is not needed depending on the joining mechanism used, as described herein with respect to FIGS. 1-11, for joining the container halves that constitute the container body 28100. The container body 28100, the collar 28200, and the closure 28300 can each be a structure formed from structure forming materials using structure forming processes as described herein. The container body 28100 and the collar 28200 are bonded as described herein. The closure 28300 is generally contoured to follow or mate with the bonded combination of the container body 28100 and the collar 28200. The container body 28100 includes a pair of walls 28110 and 28112. The walls 28110 and 28112 can provide diametric alignment between the container body 28100 and the closure 28300 when latching the closure 28300 to the container body 28100.

As described herein, the collar 28200 has a s-shaped profile or cross-section which includes a first horizontal section 28210, a vertical section 28220, and a second horizontal section 28230. The closure 28300 includes a middle latch mechanism 28310, a first sealing surface 28320, a second or redundant sealing surface 28330, finger grips 28340, and a redundant latch mechanism 28350. In some implementations, the redundant latch mechanism 28350 can be the bottom latch mechanism 17310 of FIG. 17. In some implementations, the redundant latch mechanism 28350 can be the folded latch mechanism 22310 of FIG. 22. The first sealing surface 28320 is configured to mate with the first horizontal section 28210 to provide a first seal when the closure 28300 is latched or attached to the container body 28100 (i.e., a closed container configuration). The second or redundant sealing surface 28330 is configured to mate with the vertical section 28220 when the closure 28300 is latched to the container body 28100. An inner surface of the second or redundant sealing surface 28330 is configured to diametrically seal with an outer surface of the vertical section 28220. In some implementations, the closure 28300 can exclude the second or redundant sealing surface 28330 (as shown for example in FIG. 3).

The middle latch mechanism 28310 is implemented with an inward contoured, recessed, or depressed section (collectively “middle latch section”) 28312 and 28314 in the closure 28300, which is configured to latch with the container body 28100 by fitting under the second horizontal section 28230 and above a respective wall 28110 and 28112 when the closure 28300 is latched to the container body 28100.

In the instance where the redundant latch mechanism 28350 is the bottom latch mechanism 17310 of FIG. 17, the redundant latch mechanism 28350 is implemented with a bottom latch section 28352 and 28354 of the closure 28700, which is configured to latch with the container body 28100 by fitting or mating with a corresponding wall bottom latch section 28111 and 28113 of respective walls 28110 and 28112 when the closure 28300 is latched to the container body 28100.

In some implementations, the closure 28300 can be opened or unlatched from the container body 28100 (i.e., an open container configuration) by squeezing or pinching the finger grips 28340 toward each other. This causes the middle latch section 28312 and 28314 to unlatch from the container body 28100 such that the closure 28300 can be lifted up without the middle latch section 28312 and 28314 hitting the second horizontal section 28230, and causes the bottom latch section 28352 and 28354 to unlatch from the container body 28100 such that the closure 28300 can be lifted up.

In some implementations, the closure 28300 can be opened or unlatched from the container body 28100 by twisting the closure 28300 on the container body 28100, which causes the middle latch section 28312 and 28314, and the bottom latch section 28352 and 28354 to cam or cantilever off of the container body 28100, and then by lifting the closure 28300 up and away from the container body 28100.

The described methods and devices for packaging and in particular, fiber-based or pulp-formed containers and closures can include a container which includes a closure including a closure sealing surface, a molded fiber container body, and a collar bonded to the molded fiber container body, the collar configured to provide a sealing surface corresponding to the closure sealing surface to seal the container when the closure is attached to the bonded collar and molded fiber container body.

In implementations, the closure includes another closure sealing surface, the closure sealing surface connected to the another closure sealing surface, and the collar configured to provide another sealing surface corresponding to the another closure sealing surface to seal the container when the closure is attached to the bonded collar and molded fiber container body, wherein the closure sealing surface and the another closure sealing surface are substantially perpendicular. In implementations, the container further includes a latching mechanism configured to releasably latch the closure to the bonded collar and molded fiber container body. In implementations, the latching mechanism further includes a pair of latch sections in the closure, each latch section configured to latch between the collar and a respective wall section of the molded fiber container body. In implementations, the latching mechanism further includes a pair of latch sections in the closure, each latch section is configured to latch by positioning between the collar and a respective wall of the molded fiber container body. In implementations, the latching mechanism further includes a pair of latch sections in the closure, wherein each latch section is configured to latch by fitting into a corresponding matching contour on a wall on the molded fiber container body. In implementations, the latching mechanism further includes a pair of foldable tabs in the closure, each tab configured to fold internally with respect to the closure, and each tab configured to latch by fitting into a corresponding matching contour on a wall on the molded fiber container body. In implementations, the molded fiber container body includes a pair of container halves, further includes a tape configured to be bonded on a seam area between the pair of container halves. In implementations, the molded fiber container body includes a pair of container halves, the pair of container halves including an interconnection mechanism configured to bond the pair of container halves. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is configured to bond the pair of container halves at least mechanically. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is configured to bond the pair of container halves at least mechanically and adhesively. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is interlocking tabs. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is a step mechanism. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is a pair of angled interlocking sections. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is an outer flange. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is an inner flange. In implementations, the container includes a barrier layer on an internal surface of the container body to create a seal.

The described methods and devices for packaging and in particular, fiber-based or pulp-formed containers and closures can include a container which includes a pair of molded fiber container halves and an interconnection mechanism configured to bond the pair of container halves to form a molded fiber container body.

In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is configured to bond the pair of container halves at least mechanically. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is configured to bond the pair of container halves at least mechanically and adhesively. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is interlocking tabs. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is a step mechanism. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is a pair of angled interlocking sections. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is an outer flange. In implementations, the interconnection mechanism is an inner flange. In implementations, the container includes a tape configured to be bonded on a seam area between the pair of container halves. In implementations, the container includes a barrier layer on an internal surface of the pair of molded fiber container halves. In implementations, the container includes a closure including a closure sealing surface, and a collar bonded to the molded fiber container body, the collar configured to provide a sealing surface corresponding to the closure sealing surface to seal the container when the closure is attached to the bonded collar and molded fiber container body. In implementations, the closure includes another closure sealing surface, the closure sealing surface connected to the another closure sealing surface, and the collar configured to provide another sealing surface corresponding to the another closure sealing surface to seal the container when the closure is attached to the bonded collar and molded fiber container body, where the closure sealing surface and the another closure sealing surface are substantially perpendicular. In implementations, the container includes a latching mechanism configured to releasably latch the closure to the bonded collar and molded fiber container body. In implementations, the container the latching mechanism further includes a pair of latch sections in the closure, each latch section configured to latch between the collar and a respective wall section of the molded fiber container body. In implementations, the container the latching mechanism further includes a pair of latch sections in the closure, each latch section is configured to latch by positioning between the collar and a respective wall of the molded fiber container body. In implementations, the container the latching mechanism further includes a pair of latch sections in the closure, wherein each latch section is configured to latch by fitting into a corresponding matching contour on a wall on the molded fiber container body. In implementations, the container the latching mechanism further includes a pair of foldable tabs in the closure, each tab configured to fold internally with respect to the closure, and each tab configured to latch by fitting into a corresponding matching contour on a wall on the molded fiber container body.

The construction and arrangement of the methods as shown in the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials and components, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Although the figures may show a specific order of method steps, the order of the steps may differ from what is depicted. Also two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variation will depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

While the disclosure has been described in connection with certain embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as is permitted under the law.

	Number	Date	Country
	63356311	Jun 2022	US
	63314751	Feb 2022	US

FIBER PACKAGES, CONTAINERS, AND CLOSURES

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