Container and seal assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to containers and container lids. In at least one embodiment, the disclosed containers and container lids provide a liquid-tight seal with the inclusion of a separately attached ring that generally eliminates material-trapping seams. For example, in certain embodiments, a container and a container ring for attaching to the rim of the container is disclosed. In these embodiments, the container ring attaches to the rim of the container such that a liquid-tight vertical seal is formed, thereby reducing or eliminating material-trapping seams.

Claims

1. A container assembly comprising: a container and a seal ring, wherein: a central vertical axis intersects a center point of a bottom of the container and a center point of a top of the container and a radial axis intersects the central vertical axis and is perpendicular to the central vertical axis; the container comprises a container sidewall comprising a ledge configured to engage at least a portion of the seal ring when the seal ring is in an attached configuration with respect to the container, the ledge comprising a u-shaped crevice that is (i) internally located within the container and (ii) configured to engage with at least a portion of a lower seal structure of the seal ring, wherein: the u-shaped crevice comprises a first crevice sidewall, a second crevice sidewall radially outward from the first crevice sidewall, and a crevice floor extending between the first crevice sidewall and the second crevice sidewall, and the first crevice sidewall and a portion of an interior surface of the container sidewall at least partially define a crevice arm projecting from the container sidewall; and the seal ring comprises: an outer sidewall comprising: an arcuate portion for interfacing with a corresponding semi-circular bead of a sidewall of a container in the attached configuration; an outer lip defining an annular channel having an upper closed end and a lower open end, the upper closed end being closer to the top of the container than the lower open end when the seal ring is in the attached configuration; and a seal ring protrusion for engaging with the semi-circular bead in the attached configuration, the seal ring protrusion opposite an undercut surface of the annular channel; a bottom surface extending from an inner sidewall toward the outer sidewall; the lower seal structure, wherein the lower seal structure is configured to engage with the u-shaped crevice of the container and comprises: a lower portion of the outer sidewall; a cavity defined by a bottom structure of the lower portion of the outer sidewall, wherein the cavity comprises: a first surface interfacing with a surface of the lower portion of the outer sidewall, the first surface extending at least partially in a vertical direction parallel to the central vertical axis; a second surface forming a rounded transition to the bottom surface, the second surface extending at least partially in the vertical direction, wherein at least a portion of the second surface faces at least a portion of the first surface; and an upper interior surface extending at least partially in a radial direction, the upper interior surface having a radially outermost edge intersecting the first surface and a radially innermost edge intersecting the second surface, when the seal ring is in the attached configuration with respect to the container, the radial axis simultaneously intersects (i) the first crevice sidewall of the container, (ii) the second crevice sidewall of the container, iii) the portion of the interior surface of the container sidewall, (iv) the crevice arm of the container, (v) a portion of an exterior surface of the container sidewall, (vi) the at least a portion of the first surface of the seal ring, (vii) the at least a portion of the second surface of the seal ring, and (viii) the bottom surface of the seal ring; and a latch portion defined by the lower portion of the outer sidewall and the cavity, the latch portion projecting outwardly from the seal ring.

2. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the bottom surface slopes radially outwardly and downwardly toward the bottom of the container when the seal ring is in the attached configuration, at an angle between 100 degrees and 130 degrees from the inner sidewall.

3. The container assembly of claim 2, wherein the inner sidewall comprises a ring bead for engaging with a corresponding component on a container lid, wherein the ring bead protrudes substantially perpendicularly to the inner sidewall.

4. The container assembly of claim 3, wherein the ring bead is trapezoidal in shape and further comprises: a front surface, wherein the front surface is parallel to an interior surface of the inner sidewall; a top surface, wherein the top surface slopes downwardly toward the bottom of the container when the seal ring is in the attached configuration, from the interior surface of the inner sidewall to the front surface; and a bottom surface, wherein the bottom surface slopes downwardly toward the bottom of the container when the seal ring is in the attached configuration, from the front surface to the interior surface of the inner sidewall.

5. The container assembly of claim 4, wherein a distance between the seal ring protrusion and the undercut surface is between 0.25 cm and 1.5 cm.

6. The container assembly of claim 5, wherein the annular channel, the seal ring protrusion, the arcuate portion, and the lower seal structure seal the seal ring with the container in the attached configuration.

7. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein: the u-shaped crevice is upwardly open toward the top of the container, the container comprises a container sidewall having a lower portion and an upper portion, at least some of the upper portion is configured to engage with at least some of the outer sidewall of the seal ring when the seal ring is in the attached configuration with respect to the container, the ledge is disposed between the lower portion and the upper portion, the container sidewall has a first thickness at a location within the lower portion and a second thickness at a location of the ledge, the second thickness being greater than the first thickness, and the container sidewall gradually increases in thickness from the first thickness to the second thickness.

8. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein when the seal ring is in the attached configuration with respect to the container, the cavity of the seal ring at least partially receives the crevice arm of the container and the u-shaped crevice of the container at least partially receives the latch portion of the seal ring to thereby form an interlocking seal between the seal ring and the container.

9. A container assembly comprising: a container and a seal ring configured to attach to the container in an attached configuration, wherein: the container comprises: a u-shaped crevice that is (i) internally located within the container, (ii) upwardly open toward a top opening of the container, and (iii) configured to engage with at least a portion of a lower seal structure of the seal ring; and0 a crevice arm positioned radially inward from the u-shaped crevice, the crevice arm projecting from a sidewall of the container; the seal ring comprises: an outer sidewall comprising: an arcuate portion for interfacing with a corresponding semi-circular bead of a sidewall of a container in the attached configuration; an outer lip defining an annular channel having an upper closed end and a lower open end, the upper closed end being closer to the top of the container than the lower open end when the seal ring is in the attached configuration; and a seal ring protrusion for engaging with the semi-circular bead in the attached configuration, the seal ring protrusion opposite an undercut surface of the annular channel; an inner sidewall comprising a ring bead for engaging with a corresponding component on a container lid; a floor extending from a first intersection between the floor and the inner sidewall to a second intersection between the floor and the outer sidewall; the lower seal structure, wherein the lower seal structure is configured to engage with the corresponding u-shaped crevice on the container and comprises: a lower portion of the outer sidewall; a cavity defined by a bottom structure of the lower portion of the outer sidewall, wherein the cavity comprises: a first surface interfacing with a surface of the lower portion of the outer sidewall; a second surface forming a rounded transition to an underside of the bottom structure; and an upper interior surface extending between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the cavity has a radially innermost edge that is bounded by a bottom surface that extends along at least a portion of the floor; and a latch portion defined by the lower portion of the outer sidewall and the cavity; and when the seal ring is in the attached configuration: the cavity of the seal ring at least partially receives the crevice arm of the container and the u-shaped crevice of the container at least partially receives the latch portion of the seal ring to thereby form an interlocking seal between the container and the lower seal structure of the seal ring; and a radial axis parallel to a bottom of the container simultaneously intersects the cavity of the seal ring, the crevice arm of the container, the u-shaped crevice of the container, the latch portion of the seal ring, and the bottom surface of the seal ring.

10. The container assembly of claim 9, wherein a width of the cavity is between 0.75 cm and 1.5 cm.

11. The container assembly of claim 10, wherein the bottom surface slopes radially outwardly and downwardly toward the bottom of the container when the seal ring is in the attached configuration, at an angle between 100 degrees and 130 degrees from the inner sidewall.

12. The container assembly of claim 11, wherein the ring bead protrudes substantially perpendicularly to the inner sidewall.

13. The container assembly of claim 12, wherein the ring bead is trapezoidal in shape and further comprises: a front surface, wherein the front surface is parallel to an interior surface of the inner sidewall; a top surface, wherein the top surface slopes downwardly toward the bottom of the container when the seal ring is in the attached configuration, from the interior surface of the inner sidewall to the front surface; and a bottom surface, wherein the bottom surface slopes downwardly toward the bottom of the container when the seal ring is in the attached configuration, from the front surface to the interior surface of the inner sidewall.

14. The container assembly of claim 13, wherein a distance between the seal ring protrusion and the undercut surface is between 0.25 cm and 1.5 cm.

15. The container assembly of claim 14, wherein the annular channel, the seal ring protrusion, the arcuate portion, and the lower seal structure seal the seal ring with the container in the attached configuration.

16. The container assembly of claim 15, wherein the seal ring is plastic.

17. A container comprising: a container body comprising a bottom, an uppermost end opposite the bottom and having a top opening, and an external wall extending from the bottom to the uppermost end and defining an interior cavity, the external wall comprising: an exterior wall surface; a container rim area proximate the uppermost end and comprising: a latch surface extending outwardly from the exterior wall surface; and a semi-circular bead formed by an interior wall surface; and a ledge area below the container rim area, the ledge area integrally formed with the external wall and defining a u-shaped crevice that is open in a generally upward direction toward the uppermost end of the container body and a container body arm for engaging with a corresponding lower seal structure of a seal ring, the container body arm extending at least partially in the generally upward direction toward the uppermost end of the container body; and the seal ring comprising: an outer sidewall comprising: an arcuate portion for interfacing with the semi-circular bead of the interior wall surface of the container body when the seal ring is in an attached configuration with respect to the container body; and a seal ring protrusion for engaging with the semi-circular bead in the attached configuration; an inner sidewall forming a seal structure for sealing the interior cavity of the container with a lid; and the lower seal structure for engaging with the u-shaped crevice on the container body and comprising: a cavity having a radially innermost edge that is bounded by a bottom surface extending from the radially innermost edge to the inner sidewall; and a latch portion defined by the outer sidewall and the cavity, wherein when the seal ring and the container body are in the attached configuration: the u-shaped crevice, the container body arm, the cavity, and the latch portion combine to form an interlocking seal between the container body and the lower seal structure of the seal ring; and each of (i) at least a portion of a radially outward wall surface of the u-shaped crevice, (ii) at least a portion of a radially inward wall surface of the u-shaped crevice, (iii) at least a portion of the container body arm, (iv) at least a portion of a radially outward wall surface of the cavity, (v) at least a portion of a radially inward wall surface of the cavity, (vi) at least a portion of the latch portion, and (viii) the bottom surface of the seal ring is intersected by a common radial axis that is perpendicular to a central vertical axis that passes through a center of the bottom of the container body, a center of the uppermost end of the container body, and a center of the seal ring.

18. The container of claim 17, wherein: the arcuate portion of the outer sidewall comprises a first thickness; and a lower portion of the outer sidewall comprises a second thickness greater than the first thickness of the arcuate portion of the outer sidewall, the lower portion of the sidewall being closer to the bottom of the container body than the arcuate portion when the seal ring is in the attached configuration.

19. The container of claim 18, wherein: the seal ring comprises an outer lip defining an annular channel having an upper closed end and a lower open end, the upper closed end being closer to the uppermost end of the container body than the lower open end when the seal ring is in the attached configuration; and the seal ring protrusion is configured to engage with the semi-circular bead in the attached configuration, the seal ring protrusion being opposite an undercut surface of the annular channel.

20. The container of claim 19, wherein the inner sidewall of the seal ring comprises a ring bead for engaging with a corresponding component on the lid to seal the interior cavity of the container.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The accompanying drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and/or aspects of the disclosure and, together with the written description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like elements of an embodiment, and wherein:

(2) FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an exemplary container and container ring, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

(3) FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary container, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

(4) FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary container ring, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

(5) FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary container ring and container in an attached configuration, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

(6) FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary container ring, container and container lid in an attached configuration, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

(7) FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary container ring, container and container lid in an attached configuration, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

(8) FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of an exemplary container stacked on top of a container, container ring, and container lid in an attached configuration, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

(9) FIG. 8 is an exploded view of an exemplary container and container ring, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

(10) FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of an exemplary container, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

(11) FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary container, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

(12) FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of an exemplary container ring, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

(13) FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary container ring, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and

(14) FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of an exemplary container and container ring in an attached configuration, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(15) For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will, nevertheless, be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended; any alterations and further modifications of the described or illustrated embodiments, and any further applications of the principles of the disclosure as illustrated therein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates. All limitations of scope should be determined in accordance with, and as expressed in the claims.

(16) Whether a term is capitalized is not considered definitive or limiting of the meaning of a term. As used in this document, a capitalized term shall have the same meaning as an uncapitalized term, unless the context of the usage specifically indicates that a more restrictive meaning for the capitalized term is intended. However, the capitalization or lack thereof within the remainder of this document is not intended to be necessarily limiting unless the context clearly indicates that such limitation is intended.

Overview

(17) The above and further features of the disclosed exemplary container, container ring, and container lid will be recognized from the following detailed descriptions and drawings of particular embodiments. In various embodiments, a container with a rim is disclosed. In particular embodiments, the container includes a container body (e.g., external wall) that forms the outer casing of the container. In some embodiments, the container includes bail ear assemblies to provide a mechanism for attaching a handle to the container. According to at least one embodiment, the container includes a bottom panel to provide stability and support for the container as well as an encasing for material stored in the container. In particular embodiments, the container (e.g., the container rim) includes one or more seal surfaces to provide enhanced sealing properties when engaged with a container ring and sealed with a container lid.

(18) In at least one embodiment, a container ring is disclosed for engaging with a container and container lid. In some embodiments, the container ring includes a u-shaped channel. In particular embodiments, the container ring includes one or more sidewalls including one or more seal surfaces for facilitating a liquid-tight seal when engaged with a container and/or container lid. In some embodiments, the container ring includes a ring bead for engaging with a corresponding structure on a container lid. In certain embodiments, the container ring includes an outer sidewall including a hook-shaped aperture for attaching to the container rim of a container. According to at least one embodiment, the container ring is circular in shape. In at least one embodiment, the container ring is square or rectangular in shape.

(19) Furthermore, a container lid is disclosed for engaging with a container ring. In various embodiments, the container lid includes one or more seal surfaces to provide enhanced sealing properties when sealing a container (e.g., container ring). In particular embodiments, the container lid includes an undercut for engaging with a corresponding ring bead on a container ring to facilitate a liquid-tight seal. In one or more embodiments, the container lid may be manufactured to fit any container shape (e.g., rectangular, ovoid, etc.). According to at least one embodiment, the container lid is circular in shape. In at least one embodiment, the container lid is square or rectangular in shape.

(20) The container, container ring, and container lid discussed herein may be formed in any suitable way. In various embodiments, the container, container ring, and container lid are formed by injection molding. In particular embodiments, the container, container ring, and container lid are 3D printed or created via other additive manufacturing technique. In further embodiments, various components of the container, container ring, and container lid are formed or created separately, and the various components of the container, container ring, and container lid are joined or otherwise suitably connected to form the container, container ring, and container lid. In one embodiment, the container, container ring, and/or container lid may each be one piece and unitary.

(21) The container, container ring, and container lid may be formed from any suitable material or materials for storing or transporting such materials. In various embodiments, the container, container ring, and container lid are manufactured from metal or composite material. In particular embodiments, the container, container ring, and container lid are manufactured from plastic (e.g., Polyethylene, High-Density Polyethylene, etc.).

(22) As will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, the container, container ring, and container lid discussed herein may be used for storing and sealing any variety of materials, including, but not limited to: paints, oils, food, consumer goods, construction materials, inks, chemicals, lubricants, adhesives, coatings, roofing mastics, driveway sealers, flavorings, sanitation supplies, building products, ice melt compounds, powders, pet food, and other such materials.

Exemplary Embodiments

(23) Turning now to FIG. 1, an exploded view of an exemplary container 1100 and container ring 1000 are shown, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the container ring 1000 and the container 1100 are circular in shape and have a substantially similar radius. In various embodiments, the container ring 1000 and container 1100 may be rectangular or square in shape. In various embodiments, the container ring 1000 attaches to the container 1100 to facilitate a liquid-tight seal. In one or more embodiments, the container ring 1000 attaches to the container 1100 by placing the bottom 1008 of the container ring 1000 snugly around the rim 1104 of the container 1100 (as further discussed herein). In certain embodiments, the container ring 1000 and the container are manufactured out of plastic (e.g., Polyethylene, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PP), etc.).

(24) In particular embodiments, the container ring 1000 may include various components to facilitate a seal with the container 1100. In at least one embodiment, and as will be further discussed herein, the container ring includes an inner sidewall 1004 and an outer sidewall 1016 connected by a floor 1020. In one or more embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 1, the distance between the inner sidewall 1004 and the outer sidewall 1016 may be any suitable distance (e.g., 0.8-1.2 cm, 4.8-5.2, cm, 9.8-10.2 cm, etc.). In some embodiments, and as will be further described herein, a container lid (e.g., a plug) includes corresponding sealing components, that may align and engage with the inner sidewall 1004 of the container ring 1000 to provide a liquid-tight seal when pressed together.

(25) In one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 1, the container 1100 includes a container body 1102. In particular embodiments, the container body 1102 includes an external wall 1110 to enclose the container 1100 and provide a solid base for stability. In some embodiments, the external wall 1110 may include graphical information (e.g., signage). In various embodiments, the container body 1102 terminates at an open end, whereby the open end includes a container rim 1104 around its circumference. In certain embodiments, and as will be further discussed herein, the container rim 1104 includes design features to facilitate a liquid-tight seal when engaged with a container ring 1000. Further, in various embodiments, the container 1100 includes a container bottom 1108 to provide stability and support for the container 1000 when resting on a surface.

(26) FIG. 2 shows an exemplary container 1100, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, plastic bail ears 1106 are included on the external wall 1110 of the container body 1102, such that a handle may be attached to the container 1100 to facilitate carrying or lifting of the container. In various embodiments, the bail ears 1106 may be circular, pentagonal, rectangular, or any suitable shape. In particular embodiments, the bail ears 1106 may be affixed to the external wall 1110 of the container body 1102, or, in one or more embodiments, the bail ears 1106 may be an integral component of external wall 1110 of the container body 1102.

(27) FIG. 3 shows an exemplary container ring 1000, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3, a top surface 1026 of the outer sidewall 1016 is at a higher elevation than a top surface 1010 of the inner sidewall 1004 relative to the container ring floor 1020. In certain embodiments, the thickness of the inner sidewall 1004 is less than the thickness of the outer sidewall 1016. As will be further discussed herein, in some embodiments, the outer sidewall 1016 includes an aperture 1012 beneath the top surface 1026 to facilitate attachment of the container ring 1000 to the rim of a container. In at least one embodiment, the outer sidewall 1016 extends upward at an angle greater than ninety degrees from the container ring floor 1020. In one or more embodiments, the inner sidewall 1004 has a smaller radius than the outer sidewall 1016, whereby the difference in radii is substantially equivalent to the width of the container ring floor 1020. In some embodiments, the width of container floor 1020 and the angle of the outer sidewall 1026 generally prevent liquid from getting trapped in the container ring 1000. In at least one embodiment, the floor 1020 of the container ring 1000 includes a generally smooth surface.

(28) Turning now to FIG. 4, a perspective view of an exemplary container ring 1000 attached to an exemplary container 1100 is shown, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In various embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 4, when the container ring 1000 is attached to the container 1100, the container rim 1104 of the container 1100 is substantially enveloped by the container ring 1000, such that an outer surface 1024 of the outer sidewall 1016 extends over the edge of the container rim 1104.

(29) FIG. 5 shows an exemplary container ring 1000, container 1100, and container lid 500 in an attached configuration, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular embodiments, and as will be discussed herein, various sealing components of the container lid 500 engage with the inner sidewall (not shown) of the container ring 1000 to facilitate a liquid-tight seal of the container 1100.

(30) Now referring to FIG. 6, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary container ring, container 1101, and container lid 501 in an attached configuration is shown, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In various embodiments, the container 1101 includes an external wall 1110 with an outer surface 1122 and an inner surface 1112. In certain embodiments, the external wall 1110 of the container 1101 extends upward from the container bottom and transitions into a container rim 1104 at the upper end of the container 1101. In at least one embodiment, the container rim 1104 extends outward from the outer surface 1122 of the external wall 1110 to form a latch surface 1032 for engaging with the container ring 1001, as will be further discussed herein. In certain embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 6, the upper portion 1116 of the inner surface 1112 of the external wall 1110 protrudes outwardly from the external wall 1110 and establishes a generally semi-circular bead 1118. In one or more embodiments, the bead 1118 may have a radius less than 1 cm. In particular embodiments, the generally semi-circular bead 1118 transitions downward to an exterior floor surface 1034. In one or more embodiments, the exterior floor surface 1034 may be substantially parallel to the external wall 1110 of the container 1101.

(31) In particular embodiments, the container ring 1001 includes a generally u-shaped channel 1052. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the u-shaped channel 1052 (from a cross-sectional perspective) includes two sidewalls 1004, 1016 connected by a floor 1020 that generally slopes from the inner sidewall 1004 downwardly to the outer sidewall 1016, whereby the outer sidewall 1016 and the floor 1020 form a substantially rounded connection 1018. In certain embodiments, the floor 1020 may slope at an angle between forty-five and ninety degrees, preferably at an angle between forty-five and fifty degrees, relative to the outer sidewall 1016. In one or more embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 6, the distance between the inner sidewall 1004 and the outer sidewall 1016 may be any suitable distance (e.g., 0.8-1.2 cm, 4.8-5.2, cm, 9.8-10.2 cm, etc.).

(32) As will be further discussed below, the inner sidewall 1004 includes seal surfaces 1002, 1008, and integrally formed protrusions (e.g., ring bead 1014) of the container ring 1000. In particular embodiments, the seal surfaces 1002, 1008 of the inner sidewall 1004 converge at an upper portion of the container ring 1001 into a substantially trapezoidal peak (e.g., top surface 1010), which fits into a corresponding trapezoidal cavity 622 on the container lid 501. In certain embodiments, top surface 1010 (and the corresponding cavity on the container lid) may be substantially rectangular. In particular embodiments, top surface 1010 (and the corresponding cavity on the container lid) may be substantially rounded. In some embodiments, the inner sidewall 1004 may include a notch (not shown) on the seal surface 1008 for engaging with a corresponding notch on a container lid. In one embodiment, the seal surfaces 1002, 1008 may be composed of an elastomer. In another embodiment, the seal surfaces 1002, 1008 are composed of plastic. In various embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 6, the seal surfaces 1002, 1008 of the container ring 1001 are substantially flush against the seal surfaces 654, 656 of the container lid 501 (including the trapezoidal cavity 622), such that a liquid-tight seal is facilitated.

(33) Continuing with the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the inner sidewall 1004 includes a ring bead 1014 (or other suitable protrusion) that protrudes into the u-shaped channel 1052 of the container ring 1001. In various embodiments, the ring bead 1014 may be substantially trapezoidal or substantially rounded in shape. In one or more embodiments, the ring bead 1014 (e.g., protrusion) engages with a corresponding seal structure on the container lid 501, such that a liquid-tight seal between the container ring 1001 and the container lid 501 may be formed. For example, in particular embodiments, the ring bead 1014 engages with a corresponding undercut 518 on the container lid, and, in combination with the seal surfaces 1002, 1008, facilitates a liquid-tight seal between the container ring 1000 and the lid 501. As will be understood from discussions herein, the inner sidewall 1004 is received within a generally u-shaped channel of a container lid 501, and the seal surfaces 1002, 1008 and ring bead 1014 help create a seal between the inner sidewall 1004 and the container lid 501, thereby sealing an interior/storage area of the container.

(34) Further continuing with the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the outer sidewall 1016 includes various features for engaging with, and sealing a container 1101. In certain embodiments, the outer sidewall 1016 may be substantially concave. In particular embodiments, the outer sidewall 1016 includes an upper portion 1028 that includes an aperture 1012, such that the upper portion 1028 of the outer sidewall 1016 is substantially hook-shaped. In at least one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 6, the aperture 1012 engages with the container rim 1104, whereby the bead 1118 on the upper portion 1116 of the inner surface 1112 of the external wall 1110 is flush against the outer sidewall 1016 of the container ring 1001, such that a liquid-tight seal is formed. In particular embodiments, the apex 1120 of the bead 1118 on the upper portion 1116 of the inner surface 1112 of the external wall 1110 makes contact with the outer sidewall 1016 of the container ring 1001. In these embodiments (and others), the exterior floor surface 1034 is flush against the inner surface 1112 or the external wall 1110 such that a liquid-tight seal is formed. In one or more embodiments, pressure exerted on the container lid 501 is transferred to the interface between the bead 1118 on the container 1101 and the hook and latch structure of the seal container ring 1001 and container 1101, such that sealing properties are increased.

(35) In one or more embodiments, the upper portion 1028 of the outer sidewall 1016 includes a top surface 1026. In particular embodiments, the top surface 1026 is substantially flat and substantially parallel to the container bottom. In certain embodiments, the top surface 1026 transitions down to a secondary surface 1030 of the outer sidewall 1016 via a vertical wall 1022. In one or more embodiments, the top surface 1026 of the upper portion 1028 is at a higher elevation from the bottom of the container than the secondary surface 1030 of the outer sidewall 1016. In at least one embodiment, the secondary surface 1030 is substantially flat and substantially parallel to the container bottom.

(36) In particular embodiments, the upper portion 1028 of the outer sidewall 1016 of the container ring 1001 includes a bottom surface 1027 that is substantially parallel to the top surface 1026. In some embodiments, the top surface 1026 and the bottom surface 1027 of the upper portion 1028 of the outer sidewall 1016 are integrally connected by an outer surface 1024 of the outer sidewall 1016. In some embodiments, the distance between the top surface 1026 of the upper portion 1028 and the bottom surface 1027 of the upper portion 1028 may be less than 30 mm.

(37) In at least one embodiment, the top surface 1026 of the upper portion 1028 of the outer sidewall 1016 is at a first distance from the bottom surface of the container ring 1001, and the top surface 1010 of the inner sidewall 1004 (e.g., the trapezoidal peak) is at a second distance from the bottom surface of the container ring 1001, where the first distance is greater than the second distance. In particular embodiments, the tiered elevation of the top surface 1026 of the outer sidewall 1016 and the top surface 1010 of the inner sidewall 1004 (e.g., the trapezoidal peak) may help increase stability and load distribution when two (or more) containers 1101 and container rings 1001 are stacked together (e.g., for shipping, without lids), as portions of the container bottom may match the tiered elevation of the sidewalls 1004, 1016 of the container ring 1001.

(38) Turning now to FIG. 7, a cross sectional view of an exemplary container 1103 stacked on top of a container 1101, container ring 1001, and container lid 501 in an attached configuration is shown, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in the present embodiment, a container bottom 301 sits on top of a container lid 501 engaged in a seal with a container ring 1001 attached to a container 1101. In various embodiments, the container bottom 301 includes legs 302, 304 to provide stability for the container 1103. In various embodiments, the upper leg 302 includes a base 324 and the lower leg 304 includes a base 322. In particular embodiments, the bases 322, 324 are substantially parallel to the container bottom and provide support when the container 1103 is rested on a surface.

(39) In various embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 7, the substantially flat shape of the top surface 1026 of the outer sidewall 1016 provides a level surface for the base 324 of the upper leg 302 to rest upon. In these embodiments (and others), the lower leg 304 and the upper leg 302 may straddle the secondary surface 1030 of the outer sidewall 1016.

(40) As discussed above, and shown in FIG. 7, the tiered elevation of the sidewalls 1004, 1016 of the container ring 1001 in combination with the vertical height of the lid 501, provides stability and load distribution when two (or more) containers 1101, 1103 with container rings 1001 attached are stacked together.

(41) Now referring to FIG. 8, an exploded view of an exemplary container 8100 and container ring 8000 is shown, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the container ring 8000 and the container 8100 are circular in shape and have a substantially similar diameter. In various embodiments, the container ring 8000 and container 8100 may be rectangular or square in shape.

(42) In some embodiments, the container ring 8000 attaches to the container 8100 to facilitate a liquid-tight seal. In one or more embodiments, the container ring 8000 attaches to the container 8100 by securing an aperture of the container ring 8000 over the rim of the container 8100, in combination with the engagement of the container's u-shaped crevice and the container ring's lower seal structure (as further discussed herein).

(43) The container ring 8000 and the container 8100 may be constructed of any suitable material or materials. In many embodiments, the container ring 8000 and the container 8100 are constructed of the same material. In some embodiments, the container ring 8000 and the container 8100 are constructed of different materials. In certain embodiments, the container ring 8000 and the container 8100 are manufactured out of plastic (e.g., Polyethylene, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PP), etc.).

(44) In particular embodiments, the container ring 8000 may include various components to facilitate a seal with the container 8100. In at least one embodiment, and as will be further discussed herein, the container ring includes a u-shaped channel 8052 formed by an inner sidewall 8004 and an outer sidewall 8016 connected by a floor 8020. As will be understood from discussions herein, in some embodiments, the u-shaped channel 8052 receives a portion of a lid (e.g., container lid 500 discussed herein). As also will be understood from discussions herein, a container lid may include corresponding sealing components that may align and engage with the inner sidewall 8004 of the container ring 8000 to cover the container 8100 and provide a liquid-tight seal when pressed together.

(45) In one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 8, the container 8100 includes a container body 8102. In particular embodiments, the container body 8102 includes an external wall 8110 extending from a circular bottom 8108. In at least one embodiment, the external wall encloses and/or forms an internal cavity (e.g., storage area) of the container 8100. In various embodiments, the container body 8102 terminates at a container rim 8104 formed around the container body 8102 circumference. In certain embodiments, and as will be further discussed herein, the external wall 8110 forms features to facilitate a liquid-tight seal when engaged with a container ring 8000.

(46) FIGS. 9 and 10 show a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view of exemplary container 8100, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the external wall 8110 may include graphical information (e.g., signage). As shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 9 and 10, the container 8100 may include one or more bail ears 8106 attached to the external wall 8110 of the container body 8102, such that a handle may be attached to the container 8100 to facilitate carrying or lifting of the container. In various embodiments, the bail ears 8106 may be circular, pentagonal, rectangular, or any suitable shape. In particular embodiments, the bail ears 8106 may be affixed to the external wall 8110 of the container body 8102, or, in one or more embodiments, the bail ears 8106 may be an integral component of external wall 8110 of the container body 8102. In certain embodiments, the container 8100 may include a container bottom 8108 for providing support for the container 8100. In various embodiments, the container bottom 8108 and external wall 8110 combine to form a cavity for storing things within the container 8100.

(47) Turning now to FIG. 11, this figure shows a top perspective view of an exemplary container ring 8000, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 11, a top surface 8026 of the outer sidewall 8016 is at a higher elevation than a top surface 8010 of the inner sidewall 8004 relative to the container ring floor 8020.

(48) As will be further discussed herein, in some embodiments, the outer sidewall 8016 forms an aperture 8012 beneath the top surface 8026 to facilitate attachment of the container ring 8000 to the rim of a container. In one or more embodiments, the inner sidewall 8004 has a smaller diameter than the outer sidewall 8016, whereby the difference in diameter is substantially equivalent to the width of the container ring floor 8020. In some embodiments, the width of container floor 8020 and the angle of the outer sidewall 8026 generally prevent liquid from getting trapped in the container ring 8000. In at least one embodiment, the floor 8020 of the container ring 8000 includes a generally smooth surface.

(49) FIG. 12 shows a bottom perspective view of an exemplary container ring 8000, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiment shown in FIG. 12 includes an aperture 8012 beneath the top surface 8026 of the container ring 8000. In particular embodiments, the aperture 8012 facilitates attachment to a container by providing a snug, liquid-tight connection to the rim of a container. In various embodiments, and as will be further described herein, the container ring 8000 includes various seal features (e.g., hooks, notches, protrusions, etc.) that engage with corresponding features on the container to provide a liquid-tight seal and prevent undesired exposure and/or degradation of a product being sealed.

(50) Turning now to FIG. 13, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary container 8100 and container ring 8000 in an attached configuration is shown, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular embodiments, the exemplary container 8100 and container ring 8000 include various seal features to facilitate formation of a liquid-tight seal when in an attached configuration. According to particular embodiments, the exemplary container 8100 and container/seal ring 8000 include: i) a u-shaped crevice (container 8100) for engaging with a lower seal structure (seal ring 8000); ii) a container rim area 8104 with latch-like features for engaging with hook-like features on a seal ring 8000; and iii) an inner sidewall 8004 (seal ring 8000) with various seal features (e.g., ring bead 8014) for engaging with corresponding seal features on a container lid (not shown).

(51) In various embodiments, the container 8100 includes an external wall 8110 with an outer surface 8122 and an inner surface 8112. In at least one embodiment, the distance (e.g., thickness) between the inner surface 8112 and the outer surface 8122 gradually increases from the bottom portion 8212 of the ledge area 8210 to the top of the ledge area (which forms the u-shaped crevice 8204). In particular embodiments, the bottom portion 8212 of the ledge area 8210 may be between about 7 and 30 cm from the container bottom (e.g., 7 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, 25 cm, etc.). In certain embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 13, the distance (e.g., thickness) between the inner surface 8112 and the outer surface 8122 abruptly decreases at the top of the ledge area 8210 and remains relatively consistent from the top ledge area to the bottom of the semi-circular bead 8118 (as will be further discussed herein).

(52) In certain embodiments, the external wall 8110 of the container 8100 extends upward from the container bottom and transitions into a container rim 8104 at the upper end of the container 8100 (e.g., above the semi-circular bead 8118). In at least one embodiment, the container rim 8104 extends outward from the outer surface 8122 of the external wall 8110 to form a latch surface 8032 for engaging with the container ring 8000, as will be further discussed herein.

(53) In certain embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 13, the upper portion 8116 of the inner surface 8112 of the external wall 8110 protrudes outwardly from the external wall 8110 and forms a generally semi-circular bead 8118. In one or more embodiments, the semi-circular bead 8118 may have a radius less than 1 cm. In particular embodiments, the semi-circular bead 8118 transitions downward to the top portion of the ledge area 8210.

(54) In particular embodiments, the container ring 8000 includes a generally u-shaped channel 8052. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the u-shaped channel 8052 (from a cross-sectional perspective) includes two sidewalls 8004, 8016 connected by a floor 8020 that generally slopes from the inner sidewall 8004 downwardly to the outer sidewall 8016, whereby the outer sidewall 8016 and the floor 8020 form a substantially rounded connection 8018. In certain embodiments, the floor 8020 (e.g., bottom surface) may slope at an angle between forty-five and ninety degrees. In some embodiments, the floor 8020 slopes at an angle between forty-five and fifty degrees, relative to the outer sidewall 8016. In particular embodiments, the floor 8020 (e.g., bottom surface) may slope at an angle between 95 and 150 degrees relative to the inner sidewall 8004. In one or more embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 13, the distance between the inner sidewall 8004 and the outer sidewall 8016 may be any suitable distance (e.g., 0.8-1.2 cm, 4.8-5.2, cm, 9.8-10.2 cm, etc.). In at least one embodiment, the floor 8020 of the container ring 8000 includes a generally smooth surface.

(55) In particular embodiments, the outer sidewall 8016 is substantially arcuate (e.g., concave) in shape. In certain embodiments, the outer sidewall 8016 is substantially arcuate such that it forms a flush connection with the semi-circular bead 8118 of a container 8100 when in an attached configuration. In at least one embodiment, the bottom portion of the outer sidewall 8016 is a greater thickness than the top portion of the outer sidewall 8016 (as shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 13). In various embodiments, a bottom portion of the outer sidewall 8016 transitions into a lower seal structure 8202 for engaging with a corresponding ledge area 8210 of a container 8100.

(56) As will be further discussed below, the inner sidewall 8004 includes seal surfaces 8002, 8008, and integrally formed protrusions (e.g., ring bead 8014) of the container ring 8000. In particular embodiments, the seal surfaces 8002, 8008 of the inner sidewall 8004 converge at an upper portion of the container ring 8000 into a substantially trapezoidal peak (e.g., top surface 8010), which fits into a corresponding trapezoidal cavity on a container lid (not shown). In certain embodiments, top surface 8010 may be substantially rectangular. In particular embodiments, top surface 8010 may be substantially rounded. In one embodiment, the seal surfaces 8002, 8008 may be composed of an elastomer. In another embodiment, the seal surfaces 8002, 8008 are composed of plastic. In various embodiments, the seal surfaces 8002, 8008 of the container ring 8000 are substantially flush against the seal surfaces of a container lid (including a trapezoidal cavity), such that a liquid-tight seal is facilitated.

(57) Continuing with the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the inner sidewall 8004 includes a ring bead 8014 (or other suitable protrusion) that protrudes into the u-shaped channel 8052 of the container ring 8000. In various embodiments, the ring bead 8014 may be substantially trapezoidal or substantially rounded in shape. In certain embodiments, the ring bead 8014 may include a front surface substantially parallel to the inner sidewall 8004. In certain embodiments, the ring bead 8014 may include a top surface that slopes downwardly from the inner sidewall 8004 to the front surface of the ring bead 8014. In these embodiments (and others), the ring bead 8014 may include a substantially concave bottom surface that slopes downwardly from the front surface of the ring bead 8014 to the inner sidewall 8004. In one or more embodiments, the ring bead 8014 (e.g., protrusion) engages with a corresponding seal structure on a container lid (not shown), such that a liquid-tight seal between the container ring 8000 and the container lid may be formed. For example, in particular embodiments, the ring bead 8014 engages with a corresponding undercut on the container lid, and, in combination with the seal surfaces 8002, 8008, facilitates a liquid-tight seal between the container ring 8000 and the lid. As will be understood from discussions herein, the inner sidewall 8004 is received within a generally u-shaped channel of a container lid, and the seal surfaces 8002, 8008 and ring bead 8014 help create a seal between the inner sidewall 8004 and the container lid, thereby sealing an interior/storage area of the container.

(58) Further continuing with the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the outer sidewall 8016 includes various features for engaging with, and sealing a container 8100. In certain embodiments, the outer sidewall 8016 may be substantially concave. In particular embodiments, the outer sidewall 8016 includes an upper portion 8028 that includes an aperture 8012, such that the upper portion 8028 of the outer sidewall 8016 is substantially hook-shaped.

(59) In particular embodiments, the outer surface of the outer sidewall 8016 includes a seal ring protrusion 8200 that engages with the semi-circular bead 8118 on the container 8100. In one or more embodiments, the seal ring protrusion 8200 is substantially triangular. In some embodiments, the semi-circular bead 8118 may include a corresponding notch (not shown) to facilitate engagement with the seal ring 8200. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the bead 8118 does not include a corresponding notch, such that when the container and container ring are engaged, the seal ring protrusion 8200 establishes a tighter connection with the semi-circular bead 8118, which further improves the sealing functionality of a connected container 8100 and container ring 8000. In particular embodiments, the seal ring protrusion 8200 is substantially opposite the latch surface 8032 (e.g., undercut surface) of the container rim 8104. In some embodiments, the distance between the seal ring protrusion 8200 and the latch surface 8032 is between 0.1 cm and 2.0 cm (e.g., 0.5 cm, 1.0 cm, etc.).

(60) In certain embodiments, the lower portion of the outer sidewall 8016 includes a lower seal structure 8202 to facilitate engagement with the u-shaped crevice 8204 on the container. In some embodiments, the lower seal structure 8202 includes a cavity 8214 between 0.3 cm and 2.0 cm in width (e.g., 0.5 cm, 1.0 cm, etc.). In at least one embodiment, the lower seal structure 8202 also includes an outer leg 8208, whereby the outer leg 8208 is an extension of the exterior sidewall 8110. In at least one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 13, the lower seal structure 8202 engages with the ledge area 8210 and u-shaped crevice 8204. In these embodiments (and others), an outer leg 8208 (e.g., latch portion) of the container ring 8000 engages with the u-shaped crevice 8204, and the inner crevice arm 8206 of the external wall 8110 of the container 8100 engages with the cavity 8214.

(61) In at least one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 13, the aperture 8012 engages with the container rim 8104. In various embodiments, the engagement of the aperture 8012 with the container rim 8104 and the lower seal structure 8202 with the u-shaped crevice 8204, and the engagement of the bead 8118 on the upper portion 8116 of the inner surface 8112 of the external wall 8110 with the outer sidewall 8016 of the container ring 8000 (including with the seal ring 8200), forms a liquid-tight seal. In particular embodiments, the apex 8120 of the bead 8118 on the upper portion 8116 of the inner surface 8112 of the external wall 8110 makes contact with the outer sidewall 8016 of the container ring 8000. In one or more embodiments, pressure exerted on the container lid is transferred to the interface between the bead 8118 on the container 8100 and the hook and latch structure of the seal container ring 8000 and container 8100, such that sealing properties are increased.

(62) In one or more embodiments, the upper portion 8028 of the outer sidewall 8016 includes a top surface 8026. In particular embodiments, the top surface 8026 is substantially flat and substantially parallel to the container bottom. In certain embodiments, the top surface 8026 transitions down to a secondary surface 8030 of the outer sidewall 8016 via a vertical wall 8022. In one or more embodiments, the top surface 8026 of the upper portion 8028 is at a higher elevation from the bottom of the container than the secondary surface 8030 of the outer sidewall 8016. In at least one embodiment, the secondary surface 8030 is substantially flat and substantially parallel to the container bottom.

(63) In particular embodiments, the upper portion 8028 of the outer sidewall 8016 of the container ring 8001 includes a bottom surface 8027 that angles upward to form a substantially triangular shape. In these embodiments (and others), the triangular shape of the bottom surface 8027 facilitates secure attachment between the container 8100 and container rim 8000 by forming a ledge-like structure for the container rim to latch onto. In some embodiments, the top surface 8026 and the bottom surface 8027 of the upper portion 8028 of the outer sidewall 8016 are integrally connected by an outer surface 8024 of the outer sidewall 8016. In some embodiments, the distance between the top surface 8026 of the upper portion 8028 and the bottom surface 8027 of the upper portion 8028 may be less than 30 mm.

(64) In at least one embodiment, the top surface 8026 of the upper portion 8028 of the outer sidewall 8016 is at a first distance from the bottom surface of the container ring 8000, and the top surface 8010 of the inner sidewall 8004 (e.g., the trapezoidal peak) is at a second distance from the bottom surface of the container ring 8000, where the first distance is greater than the second distance. In particular embodiments, the tiered elevation of the top surface 8026 of the outer sidewall 8016 and the top surface 8010 of the inner sidewall 8004 (e.g., the trapezoidal peak) may help increase stability and load distribution when two (or more) containers 8100 and container rings 8000 are stacked together (e.g., for shipping, without lids), as portions of the container bottom may match the tiered elevation of the sidewalls 8004, 8016 of the container ring 8000.

CONCLUSION

(65) Accordingly, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that, in view of the above detailed description of the various embodiments and articles of the present disclosure, the present disclosure is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many methods, embodiments, and adaptations of the present disclosure other than those herein described, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present disclosure and the above detailed description thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, while the present disclosure is described herein in detail in relation to various embodiments, it is to be understood that this detailed description is only illustrative and exemplary of the present disclosure and is made for purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present disclosure. The detailed description set forth herein is not intended nor is to be construed to limit the present disclosure or otherwise to exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is defined solely by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.