The present application relates generally to a cosmetic compact, and in particular, to a compact including a wide angle lid.
Vessels exist that are portable, convenient to use, and designed to contain cosmetic products for use. These types of portable vessels usually consist of a jar and lid assembly, that when assembled together provide an effective barrier for containing the product. The jar and/or lid are typically made of a glass, a plastic, a metal, combinations of the foregoing, or the like, that when closed together create a seal that can contain the product. These jar and lid assemblies may typically be sealed by a thread fastening mechanism, a snap fastening mechanism, or a clamp fastening mechanism. Some assemblies, when fastened together, can compress an o-ring or a gasket interposed by the jar and the lid. Some assemblies include hinged compacts rather than separate jars and lids.
These vessels are used in the cosmetics and personal care industries for containing a product to be applied to a body. Exemplary products include creams, gels, loose or compressed powders, and various makeup products, such as lip balm, blush/rouge, tint, petroleum products, sunscreen, etc. Portable vessels have been developed to contain products in a compact and often substantially airtight assembly. These are often built with a plastic pot and a loose plastic lid that are housed by a protective shell. However, because these vessels have a loose lid, it is difficult to manage both the loose lid and the protective shell while applying the contained product to a body. Some vessels have addressed this problem by utilizing a hinge or a tether to keep the lid with the pot. Such is the case with traditional compacts. Although portable vessels and compacts exist, there remains a need for improved cosmetic containers.
This disclosure provides design, material, manufacturing methods, and use alternatives for cosmetic packaging.
A first illustrative, non-limiting example takes the form of a cosmetic container comprising a base assembly including a base housing having a bottom surface and one or more walls defining a cavity for holding a product, a first recess disposed along an edge of the base housing, and a second recess disposed along an edge of the base housing; a first lid assembly including a first lid housing having a top surface and a bottom surface, the first lid housing further including a third recess disposed along an edge of the first lid housing; a second lid assembly including a second lid housing having a top surface and a bottom surface, the second lid housing further including a fourth recess disposed along an edge of the second lid housing; a first hinge assembly disposed at least in part in the first recess and the third recess, the first hinge assembly coupled to the first lid assembly and the base assembly adjacent to the first recess and the third recess and configured to allow the first lid assembly to pivot relative to the base assembly to move the cosmetic container between a closed configuration and a plurality of open configurations; a second hinge assembly disposed at least in part in the second recess and the fourth recess, the second hinge assembly coupled to the second lid assembly and the base assembly adjacent to the second recess and the fourth recess and configured to allow the second lid assembly to pivot relative to the base assembly to move the cosmetic container between a closed configuration and a plurality of open configurations.
Additionally or alternatively, the first hinge assembly may comprise a hinge, a first pair of pins, and a second pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the first lid assembly may be rotatable about the first pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the first lid assembly may have a range of motion about the first pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 90°. Additionally or alternatively, the first hinge assembly may be rotatable about the second pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the first hinge assembly may have a range of motion about the second pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 180°.
Additionally or alternatively, the second hinge assembly may comprise a hinge, a first pair of pins, and a second pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the second lid assembly may be rotatable about the first pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the second lid assembly may have a range of motion about the first pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 90°. Additionally or alternatively, the second hinge assembly may be rotatable about the second pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the second hinge assembly may have a range of motion about the second pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 180°.
Additionally or alternatively, the first hinge assembly may comprise a generally u-shaped hinge defining a channel and having a pair of parallel legs and an interconnecting leg, a first pair of pins, and a second pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the first lid assembly may be rotatable about the first pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the first lid assembly may have a range of motion about the first pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 180°. Additionally or alternatively, the first hinge assembly may be rotatable about the second pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the first hinge assembly has a range of motion about the second pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 180°. Additionally or alternatively, the channel of the first hinge may be configured to receive a portion of the first lid assembly in at least one open configuration.
Additionally or alternatively, the second hinge assembly may comprise a generally u-shaped hinge defining a channel and having a pair of parallel legs and an interconnecting leg, a first pair of pins, and a second pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the second lid assembly may be rotatable about the first pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the second lid assembly may have a range of motion about the first pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 180°. Additionally or alternatively, the second hinge assembly may be rotatable about the second pair of pins. Additionally or alternatively, the second hinge assembly may have a range of motion about the second pair of pins in the range of about 0° to about 180°.
Additionally or alternatively, the channel of the first hinge may be configured to receive a portion of the first lid assembly in at least one open configuration.
Additionally or alternatively, the cosmetic container may further comprise a magnetic closure mechanism disposed in the first and second lid assemblies and the base assembly.
The above summary of some example embodiments is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the present disclosure. The Figures, and Detailed Description, which follow, more particularly exemplify these embodiments.
The foregoing and other aspects of the present invention are best understood from the following detailed description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is shown in the drawings embodiments that are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific instrumentalities disclosed. Included in the drawings are the following Figures:
The first lid assembly 14 may be pivotably coupled to the base assembly 12 via a first hinge assembly 18 such that the cosmetic container in an opened configuration can lie flat on surface. The first hinge assembly 18 may be further configured to allow the first lid assembly 14 to rotate underneath the base assembly 12 in another opened configuration. As shown in more detail with respect to
As will be described in more detail below, the first and/or second lid assemblies 14, 16 may be releasably secured to the base assembly 12 through a magnetic coupling between a portion of the respective lid assembly 14, 16 and the base assembly 12, although other coupling mechanisms are also contemplated. For example, a snap fit may be used as by having an upward extending lip or ring on the base assembly 12 that engages a corresponding edge or ring on one or both of the first and second lid assemblies 14, 16. The cosmetic container 10 in
In some embodiments, the cosmetic container 10 and/or the various components thereof may be made from a rigid material (e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, thermoplastics, other polymers, glass, metal, alloy, wood, and the like). Other embodiments may, however, include containers 10 made from a flexible or semi-rigid material, such as plastic. In some embodiments, the base and/or lid assemblies 12, 14, 16 may comprise a transparent or translucent material so that the cosmetic product within may be externally viewed.
The first lid assembly 14 may include a housing 15 having an inner or bottom surface 54, an outer or top surface 56, and one or more side walls 42. The second lid assembly 16 may include a housing 17 having an inner or bottom surface 88, an outer or top surface 90, and one or more side walls 50. Referring to
The base assembly 12 may include a first recess 32 configured to receive a portion of the first hinge assembly 18 and a second recess 34 configured to receive a portion of the second hinge assembly 20. The recesses 32, 34 may extend from a top edge or surface 36 to the bottom surface 26 of the base 24. This may allow the first and/or second hinge assemblies to rotate or pivot beyond 90° as will be described in more detail below. The first recess 32 may be generally defined by two side walls 64, 66 extending generally parallel to one another and a back wall 68 connecting the two side walls 64, 66. Similarly, the second recess 34 may be generally defined by two side walls 70, 72 extending generally parallel to one another and a back wall 74 connecting the two side walls 64, 66. The back walls 68, 74 may separate the recesses 32, 34 from the cavity 30 of the base 24.
In some cases, the recesses 32, 34 may be positioned diametrically opposite from one another. This may allow a free edge of the first lid assembly 14 and a free edge of the second lid assembly 16 to be positioned next to one another in a closed configuration and pivot away from one another in an open configuration. However, the recesses 32, 34 (and hence hinge assemblies 18, 20) may be positioned in any orientation desired.
The first lid assembly 14 may include a recess 38 configured to receive another portion of the first hinge assembly 18. The recess 38 may be generally defined by walls on four sides of the recess 38. The recess may include two side walls 76, 78 extending generally parallel to one another, a back wall 80 connecting the two side walls 64, 66, and a top wall 52. The top wall 52 may hide the hinge assembly 18 from view, when the container 10 is viewed from the top. In other words, the top surface 56 of the first lid assembly 14 may be generally planar. However, this is not required. In some cases, the recess 38 may extend from the bottom surface 54 of the lid assembly 14 to a top surface 56 of the first lid assembly 14. As will be described in more detail below, the recesses 32, 38 may generally align to form a combined recess for receiving the first hinge assembly 18.
The second lid assembly 16 may include a recess 40 configured to receive another portion of the second hinge assembly 20. The recess 40 may be generally defined by walls on four sides of the recess 40. The recess 40 may include two side walls 82, 84 extending generally parallel to one another, a back wall 86 connecting the two side walls 82, 84, and a top wall 58. The top wall 58 may hide the hinge assembly 20 from view, when the container 10 is viewed from the top. In other words, the top surface 90 of the second lid assembly 16 may be generally planar. However, this is not required. In some cases, the recess 40 may extend from the bottom surface 88 of the lid assembly 16 to a top surface 90 of the second lid assembly 16. As will be described in more detail below, the recesses 34, 40 may generally align to form a combined recess for receiving the second hinge assembly 20.
The first hinge assembly 18 may be positioned within the combined recesses 32, 38 such that an outer side wall 42 of the first hinge assembly 18 is generally aligned with an outer edge surface 44 of the base assembly 12 and an outer edge surface 46 of the first lid assembly 14 when the container 10 is in a closed configuration, as shown in
The first hinge assembly 18 may include a hinge 19 having a first end 21 and a second end 23. The hinge 19 may have a length extending between the first end 21 and the second end 23 that is about the same as, or slightly less than a length of the recesses 32, 38 in the base and lid assemblies 12, 14. The hinge assembly 18 may include a first pin 25a extending from the first end 21 and a second pin 25b extending from the second end 23 to form a first pair of pins 25a, 25b (collectively, 25). In some cases, the hinge assembly 18 may be considered a watch link style hinge. The first pair of pins 25 may be configured to be received within a first pair of apertures 29a, 29b (collectively, 29) formed in the housing 15 of the first lid assembly 14. The apertures 29 may be formed in the walls 76, 78 on either side of the recess 38. In some instances, the apertures may extend through the walls 76, 78 such that the apertures 29 are accessible from a location outside of the recess 38. In other cases, the apertures 29 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 38 and the outer surface of the housing 15. In some cases, the first pair of pins 25 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to, spring-loaded to the hinge 19 to allow the pins 25 to be depressed and placed within the apertures 29 in the first lid assembly 14. In other words, the pins 25 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 19 to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the first pin 25a to a tip of the second pin 25b) to be shortened for assembly. For example, a first pin 25a may be inserted into the first aperture 29a. Once the first pin 25a has been inserted into the first aperture 29a, the tip of the second pin 25b may extend beyond an opening of the aperture 29b in the recess 38. The second pin 25b may be pushed into a recess in the hinge 19 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the second pin 25b) to shorten an exposed length of the pin 25b and allow it to be inserted into the second aperture 29b. When the exerted force is released from the pin 25b, the pin 25b may return to its original length (shown in
The hinge assembly 18 may include a third pin 27a extending from the first end 21 and a fourth pin 27b extending from the second end 23 to form a second pair of pins 27a, 27b (collectively, 27). The second pair of pins 27 may be configured to be received within a pair of apertures 31a, 31b (collectively, 31) formed in the base 24 of the base assembly 12. The apertures 31 may be formed through a side wall on either side of the recess 32. In some instances, the apertures may extend through the walls 64, 66 such that the apertures 31 are accessible from a location outside of the recess 32. In other cases, the apertures 31 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 32 and the outer surface of the housing 24. In some cases, the second pair of pins 27 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to, spring-loaded) to the hinge 19 to allow the pins 27 to be depressed and placed within the apertures 31 in the base assembly 12. In other words, to the pins 27 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 19 to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the third pin 27a to a tip of the fourth pin 27b) to be shortened for assembly. For example, the third pin 27a may be inserted into an aperture 31a of the base. Once the third pin 27a has been inserted into the aperture 31a, the tip of the fourth pin 27b may extend beyond the aperture 31b opening in the recess 32. The fourth pin 27b may be pushed into a recess in the hinge 19 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the fourth pin 27b) to shorten an exposed length of the pin 27b and allow it to be inserted into the aperture 31b. When the exerted force is released from the pin 27b, the pin 27b may return to its original length (shown in
The pins 25, 27 may be secured to the hinge 19 to allow for movement along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 19 but to prevent rotational movement of the pins 25, 27 relative to the hinge 19. The pins 25, 27 may be positioned within the apertures 29, 31 such that the base and lid assemblies 12, 14 may rotate and/or pivot relative to the pins 25, 27. This may allow the base and lid assemblies 12, 14 to pivot open about the hinge assembly 18. In some embodiments, the hinge assembly 18 may pivot relative to the base and/or lid assemblies 12, 14. In some cases, the hinge assembly 18 may be removable through actuation of one or more of the pins 25, 27 through the corresponding apertures 29, 31.
The second hinge assembly 20 may include a hinge 33 having a first end 35 and a second end 37. The hinge 33 may have a length extending between the first end 35 and the second end 37 that is about the same as, or slightly less than a length of the recesses 34, 40 in the base and lid assemblies 12, 16. The hinge assembly 20 may include a first pin 39a extending from the first end 35 and a second pin 39b extending from the second end 37 to form a first pair of pins 39a, 39b (collectively, 39). In some cases, the hinge assembly 20 may be considered a watch link style hinge. The first pair of pins 39 may be configured to be received within a first pair of apertures 43a, 43b (collectively, 43) formed in the housing 17 of the second lid assembly 16. The apertures 43 may be formed in the walls 82, 84 on either side of the recess 40. In some instances, the apertures may extend through the walls 82, 84 such that the apertures 43 are accessible from a location outside of the recess 40. In other cases, the apertures 43 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 40 and the outer surface of the housing 17. In some cases, the first pair of pins 39 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to, spring-loaded to the hinge 33 to allow the pins 39 to be depressed and placed within the apertures 43 in the second lid assembly 16. In other words, the pins 39 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 33 to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the first pin 39a to a tip of the second pin 39b) to be shortened for assembly. For example, a first pin 39a may be inserted into the first aperture 43a. Once the first pin 39a has been inserted into the first aperture 43a, the tip of the second pin 39b may extend beyond an opening of the aperture 43b in the recess 40. The second pin 39b may be pushed into a recess in the hinge 33 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the second pin 39b) to shorten an exposed length of the pin 39b and allow it to be inserted into the second aperture 43b. When the exerted force is released from the pin 39b, the pin 39b may return to its original length (shown in
The hinge assembly 20 may include a third pin 41a extending from the first end 35 and a fourth pin 41b extending from the second end 37 to form a second pair of pins 41a, 41b (collectively, 41). The second pair of pins 41 may be configured to be received within a pair of apertures 45a, 45b (collectively, 45) formed in the base 24 of the base assembly 12. The apertures 45 may be formed through a side wall on either side of the recess 34. In some instances, the apertures may extend through the walls 70, 72 such that the apertures 45 are accessible from a location outside of the recess 34. In other cases, the apertures 45 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 34 and the outer surface of the housing 24. In some cases, the second pair of pins 41 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to, spring-loaded) to the hinge 33 to allow the pins 41 to be depressed and placed within the apertures 45 in the base assembly 12. In other words, to the pins 41 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 33 to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the third pin 41a to a tip of the fourth pin 41b) to be shortened for assembly. For example, the third pin 41a may be inserted into an aperture 45a of the base. Once the third pin 41a has been inserted into the aperture 45a, the tip of the fourth pin 41b may extend beyond the aperture 45b opening in the recess 34. The fourth pin 41b may be pushed into a recess in the hinge 33 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the fourth pin 41b) to shorten an exposed length of the pin 41b and allow it to be inserted into the aperture 45b. When the exerted force is released from the pin 41b, the pin 41b may return to its original length (shown in
The pins 39, 41 may be secured to the hinge 33 to allow for movement along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 33 but to prevent rotational movement of the pins 39, 41 relative to the hinge 33. The pins 39, 41 may be positioned within the apertures 43, 45 such that the base and lid assemblies 12, 16 may rotate and/or pivot relative to the pins 39, 41. This may allow the base and lid assemblies 12, 16 to pivot open about the hinge assembly 20. In some embodiments, the hinge assembly 20 may pivot relative to the base and/or lid assemblies 12, 16. In some cases, the hinge assembly 20 may be removable through actuation of one or more of the pins 39, 41 through the corresponding apertures 43, 45.
In the illustrated configuration of
In some cases, the first lid assembly 14 and the first hinge assembly 18 may be capable of pivoting in a range of about 0° to 180° about the second pair of pins 27 of the first hinge assembly 18, as indicated at θ2. The first hinge assembly 18 may be positioned at any location between and including a fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fully open (e.g., 180° or more) configuration. It is contemplated that the range of motion of the first lid assembly 14 and the first hinge assembly 18 may be limited by the back wall 68 of the recess 32. For example, further rotation of the first hinge assembly 18 about the second pair of pins 27 may be limited by the hinge 19 contacting the back wall 68. In some cases, the first hinge assembly 18 may be capable of pivoting beyond 180° (or less than 0°). For example, the back wall 68 may be angled or tapered to allow the first hinge assembly 18 to rotate to angles of upwards of 180°. In some cases, the second lid assembly 16 and the second hinge assembly 20 may be capable of pivoting in a range of about 0° to 180° about the second pair of pins 41 of the second hinge assembly 20. The second hinge assembly 20 may be positioned at any location between and including a fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fully open (e.g., 180° or more) configuration. It is contemplated that the range of motion of the second lid assembly 16 and the second hinge assembly 20 may be limited by the back wall 74 of the recess 34. For example, further rotation of the second hinge assembly 20 about the second pair of pins 41 may be limited by the hinge 33 contacting the back wall 74. In some cases, the second hinge assembly 20 may be capable of pivoting beyond 180° (or less than 0°). For example, the back wall 74 may be angled or tapered to allow the second hinge assembly 20 to rotate to angles of upwards of 180°.
In some cases, the base assembly 12 and the lid assemblies 14, 16 may be releasably coupled together using a magnetic closure. For example, the base assembly 12 may include one or more magnets disposed on, embedded in, attached to, or otherwise a part of the base 24. In some instances, the magnet(s) may be disposed within a side wall 28 of the base 24. The base assembly 12 may be include one or more magnets 102a, 102b (collectively, 102) configured to magnetically couple with one or more magnets 100a, 100b (collectively, 100) in the first lid assembly 14. Alternatively, or additionally, the base assembly 12 may be include one or more magnets 106a, 106b (collectively, 106) configured to magnetically couple with one or more magnets 104a, 104b (collectively, 104) in the second lid assembly 16. The lid assemblies 14, 16 may each include one or more magnets 100a, 100b, 104a, 104b disposed on, embedded in, attached to, or otherwise a part of the housings 15, 17 thereof. The magnets 100, 104 may be positioned to generally align with the magnet(s) 102, 106 in the base assembly 12. The position of the magnets 100, 102, 104, 106 is merely illustrative. For example, the magnets 100, 102, 104, 106 may be positioned closer to the hinge assemblies 18, 20 if so desired. In some cases, the cosmetic container 10 may include other latching mechanism such as but not limited to, push-buttons, a ball clasp, snap clasps, etc.
The base assembly 12 may have a generally circular cross-sectional shape. The lid assemblies 14, 16 may each have a generally half-circular cross-sectional shape such that together the lid assemblies 14, 16 have a generally circular cross-sectional shape. It should be understood that one “half” circle may be larger than the other. However, the base assembly 12 and the lid assemblies 14 may take any shape desired, including but not limited to, square, rectangular, triangular, half-ovoid, polygonal, etc.
The first lid assembly 204 may be pivotably coupled to the base assembly 202 via a first hinge assembly 208 such that the cosmetic container in an opened configuration can lie flat on surface. The first hinge assembly 208 may be further configured to allow the first lid assembly 204 to rotate underneath the base assembly 202 in another opened configuration. As shown in more detail with respect to
As will be described in more detail below, the first and/or second lid assemblies 204, 206 may be releasably secured to the base assembly 202 through a magnetic coupling between a portion of the respective lid assembly 204, 206 and the base assembly 202, although other coupling mechanisms are also contemplated. For example, a snap fit may be used as by having an upward extending lip or ring on the base assembly 202 that engages a corresponding edge or ring on one or both of the first and second lid assemblies 204, 206. The cosmetic container 200 in
In some embodiments, the cosmetic container 200 and/or the various components thereof may be made from a rigid material (e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, thermoplastics, other polymers, glass, metal, alloy, wood, and the like). Other embodiments may, however, include containers 200 made from a flexible or semi-rigid material, such as plastic. In some embodiments, the base and/or lid assemblies 202, 204, 206 may comprise a transparent or translucent material so that the cosmetic product within may be externally viewed.
The first lid assembly 204 may include a housing 224 having an inner or bottom surface 226, an outer or top surface 228, and one or more side walls 230. The second lid assembly 206 may include a housing 232 having an inner or bottom surface 234, an outer or top surface 236, and one or more side walls 238. Referring to
The base assembly 202 may include a first recess 244 configured to receive a portion of the first hinge assembly 208 and a second recess 246 configured to receive a portion of the second hinge assembly 210. The recesses 244, 246 may extend from a top edge or surface 248 to the bottom surface 218 of the base 216. This may allow the first and/or second hinge assemblies 208, 210 to rotate or pivot beyond 90° as will be described in more detail below. The first recess 244 may be generally defined by two side walls 250, 252 extending generally parallel to one another and a back wall 254 connecting the two side walls 250, 252. Similarly, the second recess 246 may be generally defined by two side walls 256, 258 extending generally parallel to one another and a back wall 260 connecting the two side walls 250, 252. The back walls 254, 260 may separate the recesses 244, 246 from the cavity 222 of the base 216.
In some cases, the recesses 244, 246 may be positioned diametrically opposite from one another. This may allow a free edge of the first lid assembly 204 and a free edge of the second lid assembly 206 to be positioned next to one another in a closed configuration and pivot away from one another in an open configuration. However, the recesses 244, 246 (and hence hinge assemblies 208, 210) may be positioned in any orientation desired.
The first lid assembly 204 may include a recess 262 configured to receive another portion of the first hinge assembly 208. The recess 262 may be generally defined by walls on four sides of the recess 262. The recess may include two side walls 264, 266 extending generally parallel to one another, a back wall 268 connecting the two side walls 250, 252, and a top wall 270. The top wall 270 may hide the hinge assembly 208 from view, when the container 200 is viewed from the top. In other words, the top surface 228 of the first lid assembly 204 may be generally planar. However, this is not required. In some cases, the recess 262 may extend from the bottom surface 226 of the lid assembly 204 to a top surface 228 of the first lid assembly 204. As will be described in more detail below, the recesses 244, 262 may generally align to form a combined recess for receiving the first hinge assembly 208.
The second lid assembly 206 may include a recess 272 configured to receive another portion of the second hinge assembly 210. The recess 272 may be generally defined by walls on four sides of the recess 272. The recess 272 may include two side walls 274, 276 extending generally parallel to one another, a back wall 278 connecting the two side walls 274, 276, and a top wall 280. The top wall 280 may hide the hinge assembly 210 from view, when the container 200 is viewed from the top. In other words, the top surface 236 of the second lid assembly 206 may be generally planar. However, this is not required. In some cases, the recess 272 may extend from the bottom surface 234 of the lid assembly 206 to a top surface 236 of the second lid assembly 206. As will be described in more detail below, the recesses 246, 272 may generally align to form a combined recess for receiving the second hinge assembly 210.
The first hinge assembly 208 may be positioned within the combined recesses 244, 262 such that the first hinge assembly 208 is generally positioned within with an outer edge surface of the base assembly 202 and an outer edge surface of the first lid assembly 204 when the container 200 is in a closed configuration, as shown in
The first hinge assembly 208 may include a hinge 282 having a generally u-shaped configuration and defining a channel 284 therein. The generally u-shaped hinge 282 may have a pair of generally parallel legs 281, 283 interconnected by a third leg 285. The hinge 282 may a length extending between a first end 287 and a second end 289 that is about the same as, or slightly less than a length of the recesses 244, 262 in the base and lid assemblies 202, 204. The hinge assembly 208 may include a first pin 286a extending from the first end 287 and a second pin 286b extending from the second end 289 to form a first pair of pins 286a, 286b (collectively, 286). In some cases, the hinge assembly 208 may be considered a watch link style hinge. The first pair of pins 286 may be configured to be received within a first pair of apertures 271a, 271b (collectively, 271) formed in the housing 224 of the first lid assembly 204. The apertures 271 may be formed in the walls 264, 266 on either side of the recess 262. In some instances, the apertures may extend through the walls 264, 266 such that the apertures 271 are accessible from a location outside of the recess 262. In other cases, the apertures 271 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 262 and the outer surface of the housing 224. In some cases, the first pair of pins 286 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to, spring-loaded to the hinge 282 to allow the pins 286 to be depressed and placed within the apertures 271 in the first lid assembly 204. In other words, the pins 286 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 282 to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the first pin 286a to a tip of the second pin 286b) to be shortened for assembly. For example, a first pin 286a may be inserted into the first aperture 271a. Once the first pin 286a has been inserted into the first aperture 271a, the tip of the second pin 286b may extend beyond an opening of the aperture 271b in the recess 262. The second pin 286b may be pushed into a recess in the hinge 282 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the second pin 286b) to shorten an exposed length of the pin 286b and allow it to be inserted into the second aperture 271b. When the exerted force is released from the pin 286b, the pin 286b may return to its original length (shown in
The hinge assembly 208 may include a third pin 288a extending from the first end 287 and a fourth pin 288b extending from the second end 289 to form a second pair of pins 288a, 288b (collectively, 288). The second pair of pins 288 may be configured to be received within a pair of apertures 273a, 273b (collectively, 273) formed in the base 216 of the base assembly 202. The apertures 273 may be formed through a side wall on either side of the recess 244. In some instances, the apertures may extend through the walls 250, 252 such that the apertures 273 are accessible from a location outside of the recess 244. In other cases, the apertures 273 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 244 and the outer surface of the housing 216. In some cases, the second pair of pins 288 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to, spring-loaded) to the hinge 282 to allow the pins 288 to be depressed and placed within the apertures 273 in the base assembly 202. In other words, to the pins 288 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 282 to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the third pin 288a to a tip of the fourth pin 288b) to be shortened for assembly. For example, the third pin 288a may be inserted into an aperture 273a of the base. Once the third pin 288a has been inserted into the aperture 273a, the tip of the fourth pin 288b may extend beyond the aperture 273b opening in the recess 244. The fourth pin 288b may be pushed into a recess in the hinge 282 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the fourth pin 288b) to shorten an exposed length of the pin 288b and allow it to be inserted into the aperture 273b. When the exerted force is released from the pin 288b, the pin 288b may return to its original length (shown in
The pins 286, 288 may be secured to the hinge 282 to allow for movement along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 282 but to prevent rotational movement of the pins 286, 288 relative to the hinge 282. The pins 286, 288 may be positioned within the apertures 271, 273 such that the base and lid assemblies 202, 204 may rotate and/or pivot relative to the pins 286, 288. This may allow the base and lid assemblies 202, 204 to pivot open about the hinge assembly 208. In some embodiments, the hinge assembly 208 may pivot relative to the base and/or lid assemblies 202, 204. In some cases, the hinge assembly 208 may be removable through actuation of one or more of the pins 286, 288 through the corresponding apertures 271, 273. In some embodiments a free end of the legs 281, 283 may have an increased thickness, as shown, sized and shaped to accommodate the pins 286, 288. However, this is not required. In some instances, the legs 281, 283 may have a uniform thickness along a length thereof. It is further contemplated that the free ends of the legs 281, 283 may have rounded edges to reduce and/or eliminate catch points during articulation of the lid assembly 204 and/or base assembly 202.
The second hinge assembly 210 may include a hinge 292 having a generally u-shaped configuration and defining a channel 294 therein. The generally u-shaped hinge 292 may have a pair of generally parallel legs 291, 293 interconnected by a third leg 295. The hinge 292 may a length extending between a first end 297 and a second end 299 that is about the same as, or slightly less than a length of the recesses 246, 272 in the base and lid assemblies 202, 206. The hinge assembly 210 may include a first pin 296a extending from the first end 297 and a second pin 296b extending from the second end 299 to form a first pair of pins 296a, 296b (collectively, 296). In some cases, the hinge assembly 210 may be considered a watch link style hinge. The first pair of pins 296 may be configured to be received within a first pair of apertures 275a, 275b (collectively, 275) formed in the housing 232 of the second lid assembly 206. The apertures 275 may be formed in the walls 274, 276 on either side of the recess 272. In some instances, the apertures may extend through the walls 274, 276 such that the apertures 275 are accessible from a location outside of the recess 272. In other cases, the apertures 275 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 272 and the outer surface of the housing 232. In some cases, the first pair of pins 296 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to, spring-loaded to the hinge 292 to allow the pins 296 to be depressed and placed within the apertures 275 in the second lid assembly 206. In other words, the pins 296 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 292 to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the first pin 296a to a tip of the second pin 296b) to be shortened for assembly. For example, a first pin 296a may be inserted into the first aperture 275a. Once the first pin 296a has been inserted into the first aperture 275a, the tip of the second pin 296b may extend beyond an opening of the aperture 275b in the recess 272. The second pin 296b may be pushed into a recess in the hinge 292 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the second pin 296b) to shorten an exposed length of the pin 296b and allow it to be inserted into the second aperture 275b. When the exerted force is released from the pin 296b, the pin 296b may return to its original length (shown in
The hinge assembly 210 may include a third pin 298a extending from the first end 297 and a fourth pin 298b extending from the second end 299 to form a second pair of pins 298a, 298b (collectively, 298). The second pair of pins 298 may be configured to be received within a pair of apertures 277a, 277b (collectively, 277) formed in the base 216 of the base assembly 202. The apertures 277 may be formed through a side wall on either side of the recess 246. In some instances, the apertures may extend through the walls 256, 258 such that the apertures 277 are accessible from a location outside of the recess 246. In other cases, the apertures 277 may terminate at a location intermediate the recess 246 and the outer surface of the housing 216. In some cases, the second pair of pins 298 may be movably attached, such as, but not limited to, spring-loaded) to the hinge 292 to allow the pins 298 to be depressed and placed within the apertures 277 in the base assembly 202. In other words, to the pins 298 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 292 to allow an overall length (e.g. from a tip of the third pin 298a to a tip of the fourth pin 298b) to be shortened for assembly. For example, the third pin 298a may be inserted into an aperture 277a of the base. Once the third pin 298a has been inserted into the aperture 277a, the tip of the fourth pin 298b may extend beyond the aperture 277b opening in the recess 246. The fourth pin 298b may be pushed into a recess in the hinge 292 (e.g. a force exerted on the tip of the fourth pin 298b) to shorten an exposed length of the pin 298b and allow it to be inserted into the aperture 277b. When the exerted force is released from the pin 298b, the pin 298b may return to its original length (shown in
The pins 296, 298 may be secured to the hinge 292 to allow for movement along a longitudinal axis of the hinge 292 but to prevent rotational movement of the pins 296, 298 relative to the hinge 292. The pins 296, 298 may be positioned within the apertures 275, 277 such that the base and lid assemblies 202, 206 may rotate and/or pivot relative to the pins 296, 298. This may allow the base and lid assemblies 202, 206 to pivot open about the hinge assembly 210. In some embodiments, the hinge assembly 210 may pivot relative to the base and/or lid assemblies 202, 206. In some cases, the hinge assembly 210 may be removable through actuation of one or more of the pins 296, 298 through the corresponding apertures 275, 277. In some embodiments a free end of the legs 291, 293 may have an increased thickness, as shown, sized and shaped to accommodate the pins 296, 298. However, this is not required. In some instances, the legs 291, 293 may have a uniform thickness along a length thereof. It is further contemplated that the free ends of the legs 291, 293 may have rounded edges to reduce and/or eliminate catch points during articulation of the second lid assembly 206 and/or base assembly 202.
In some cases, the first lid assembly 204 may be capable of pivoting beyond 180°. For example, in the absence of the top wall 270 (e.g., a configuration similar to the recess 244 in the base assembly 202), rotation of the first lid assembly 204 may rotate to angles of upwards of 180°. In some cases, the second lid assembly 206 may be capable of pivoting in a range of about 0° to 180° about the first pair of pins 296 of the second hinge assembly 210, in a similar manner to the first lid assembly 204. The second lid assembly 206 may be positioned at any location between and including a fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fully open (e.g., 180° or more) configuration. It is contemplated that the range of motion of the second lid assembly 206 may be limited by the top wall 280 of the recess 272. For example, further rotation of the second lid assembly 206 about the first pair of pins 296 may be limited by the top wall 280 contacting an inner surface of the first leg 291 of the hinge 292. In some cases, the second lid assembly 206 may be capable of pivoting beyond 180°. For example, in the absence of the top wall 280 (e.g., a configuration similar to the recess 246 in the base assembly 202), rotation of the second lid assembly 206 may rotate to angles of upwards of 180°.
In the illustrated configurations of
In some cases, the first lid assembly 204 and the first hinge assembly 208 may be capable of pivoting in a range of about 0° to 180° about the second pair of pins 288 of the first hinge assembly 208, as indicated at 02. The first hinge assembly 208 may be positioned at any location between and including a fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fully open (e.g., 180° or more) configuration. It is contemplated that the range of motion of the first lid assembly 204 and the first hinge assembly 208 may be limited by the interconnecting leg 285 of the hinge 282. For example, further rotation of the first hinge assembly 208 about the second pair of pins 288 may be limited by the interconnecting leg 285 of the hinge 282 contacting the base assembly 202. In some cases, the first hinge assembly 208 may be capable of pivoting beyond 180° (or less than 0°). In some cases, the second lid assembly 206 and the second hinge assembly 210 may be capable of pivoting in a range of about 0° to 180° about the second pair of pins 298 of the second hinge assembly 210. The second hinge assembly 210 may be positioned at any location between and including a fully closed (e.g., 0°) and a fully open (e.g., 180° or more) configuration. It is contemplated that the range of motion of the second lid assembly 206 and the second hinge assembly 210 may be limited by the interconnecting leg 295 of the hinge 292 contacting the base assembly 202. In some cases, the second hinge assembly 210 may be capable of pivoting beyond 180° (or less than 0°).
While not explicitly shown, in some cases, the base assembly 202 and the lid assemblies 204, 206 may be releasably coupled together using a magnetic closure. For example, the base assembly 202 may include one or more magnets disposed on, embedded in, attached to, or otherwise a part of the base 216. In some instances, the magnet(s) may be disposed within a side wall 220 of the base 216. The base assembly 202 may be include one or more magnets configured to magnetically couple with one or more magnets in the first lid assembly 204. Alternatively, or additionally, the base assembly 202 may be include one or more magnets configured to magnetically couple with one or more magnets in the second lid assembly 206. The lid assemblies 204, 206 may each include one or more magnets disposed on, embedded in, attached to, or otherwise a part of the housings 224, 232 thereof. The magnets may be positioned to generally align with the magnet(s) in the base assembly 202. In some cases, the cosmetic container 200 may include other latching mechanism such as but not limited to, push-buttons, a ball clasp, snap clasps, etc.
The base assembly 202 may have a generally circular cross-sectional shape. The lid assemblies 204, 206 may each have a generally half-circular cross-sectional shape such that together the lid assemblies 204, 206 have a generally circular cross-sectional shape. It should be understood that one “half” circle may be larger than the other. However, the base assembly 202 and the lid assemblies 204 may take any shape desired, including but not limited to, square, rectangular, triangular, half-ovoid, polygonal, etc.
Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous changes and modifications may be made to the preferred embodiments of the invention and that such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the true spirit of the invention. It is therefore intended that the appended claims be construed to cover all such equivalent variations as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
The present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/530,087, filed on Jul. 7, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
Number | Date | Country | |
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62530087 | Jul 2017 | US |