CONTAINER WITH LOCKING MECHANISMS

Abstract

A container including a removable top cap and a bottom lid. The top cap is configured to rotate about the base of the container from a locked position to an unlocked position. In an unlocked position side walls of the container may be deflected radially inward so that the top cap may be separated from the base of the container.

Claims

1. A container, comprising: a base including, a base bottom wall, and a base side wall extending vertically from the base bottom wall, the base side wall including, a flexible region configured to deflect radially inward with respect to the base side wall, the base side wall and the base bottom wall at least partially defining a first containment volume; a top cap configured to move between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration such that in the unlocked configuration, the top cap is configured to be separable from the base in response to the flexible region being deflected radially inward, the top cap including, a top wall extending parallel to the base bottom wall in the locked configuration, and a top cap side wall extending vertically from a bottom surface of the top wall; and a bottom lid connected to a bottom surface of the base bottom wall, the bottom lid including, a lid region, and a connecting region including a hinge, the bottom lid configured such that the lid region rotates about the hinge from an open configuration to a closed configuration, the lid region, the bottom surface of the base bottom wall, and the base side wall defining a second containment volume separate from the first containment volume.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the base side wall further includes first locking protrusions that extend radially outward from the base side wall.

3. The container of claim 2, wherein the top cap side wall further includes second locking protrusions extending radially inward from the top cap side wall.

4. The container of claim 3, wherein the first locking protrusions and the second locking protrusions are configured to lock the top cap to the base in the locked configuration.

5. The container of claim 4, wherein the top wall further includes third locking protrusions that extend vertically from the bottom surface of the top wall.

6. The container of claim 5, wherein the third locking protrusions are configured to reduce the flexible region from deflecting radially inward in response to the top cap being in the locked configuration.

7. The container of claim 6, wherein the first locking protrusions extend radially outward from the base side wall in a first locking region and a second locking region.

8. The container of claim 7, wherein at least one of the first locking region or the second locking region overlaps the flexible region.

9. The container of claim 8, wherein the first locking region and the second locking region are separated by spacing regions in which the first locking protrusions do not extend.

10. The container of claim 9, wherein the second locking protrusions include a plurality of first sub-locking protrusions that overlap the first locking region and the second locking region in the unlocked configuration.

11. The container of claim 10, wherein the second locking protrusions include a plurality of second sub-locking protrusions that overlap the spacing regions in the unlocked configuration.

12. The container of claim 11, wherein the first sub-locking protrusions and the second sub-locking protrusions are separated from each other.

13. The container of claim 12, wherein the top cap includes a first notch defined by an exterior surface of the top cap, the first notch overlapping the first sub-locking protrusions such that the first notch indicates an orientation of the first sub-locking protrusions.

14. The container of claim 13, wherein the top cap includes a second notch that extends vertically from a bottom surface of the top cap side wall such that the bottom surface of the top cap side wall is exposed.

15. The container of claim 14, wherein the third locking protrusions include a plurality of third sub-locking protrusions, each of the plurality of third sub-locking protrusions spaced apart from each other.

16. The container of claim 15, wherein the plurality of third locking protrusions include four third sub-locking protrusions spaced apart at 90 degree angles.

17. The container of claim 16, wherein the plurality of first sub-locking protrusions and the plurality of second sub-locking protrusions do not overlap the third locking protrusions in a radial direction.

18. The container of claim 1, wherein the container has a cylindrical shape.

19. The container of claim 18, wherein the top cap is configured to rotate about the base from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

20. A container, comprising: a base including, a base bottom wall, and a base side wall extending vertically from the base bottom wall, the base side wall including, a flexible region, a pair of slits on either side of the flexible region at least partially defining the flexible region such that the flexible region deflects radially inward from an initial position in response to an application of force to an external surface of the flexible region, and a first locking protrusion extending radially outward from the flexible region; a top cap arranged such that the top cap is secured to the base in a locked configuration, the top cap including, a top cap top wall extending parallel to the base bottom wall in the locked configuration; and a top cap side wall extending from a bottom surface of the top cap top wall, the top cap side wall surrounding a portion of the flexible region such that the top cap top wall, the base side wall, and a top surface of the base bottom wall collectively define a first containment volume in the locked configuration, a second locking protrusion extending radially inward from the top cap side wall such that the second locking protrusion vertically overlaps the first locking protrusion in the locked configuration, and a third locking protrusion extending from the top cap top wall, the third locking protrusion positioned radially inward with respect to the flexible region such that the third locking protrusions radially overlap the flexible region in the locked configuration; and a bottom lid attached to a hinge, the bottom lid, the base side wall, and a bottom surface of the base bottom wall collectively defining a second containment volume isolated from the first containment volume by the base bottom wall.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein may become more apparent upon review of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are merely provided for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. For purposes of clarity, various dimensions of the drawings may have been exaggerated.

[0047] FIG. 1A is a perspective view from below of a container in an open configuration, according to at least one example embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 1B is a top down view of the underside of a top cap, according to at least one example embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a container in a closed and unlocked configuration, according to at least one example embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a container in a closed and locked configuration with the top being see-through such that features of the locking protrusions may be visible, according to at least one example embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of a container along the A-A line of FIG. 2A.

[0052] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of a container along the B-B line of FIG. 2B.

[0053] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the container with the bottom lid in an open configuration, according to at least one example embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing example embodiments. Example embodiments may, however, be embodied in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to only the example embodiments set forth herein.

[0055] Accordingly, while example embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but to the contrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives thereof. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0056] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being on, connected to, coupled to, or covering another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being directly on, directly connected to, or directly coupled to another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term and/or includes any and all combinations or sub-combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0057] It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, regions, layers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.

[0058] Spatially relative terms (e.g., beneath, below, lower, above, upper, and the like) may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as below or beneath other elements or features would then be oriented above the other elements or features. Thus, the term below may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0059] It will be understood that elements and/or properties thereof (e.g., structures, surfaces, directions, or the like), which may be referred to as being perpendicular, parallel, coplanar, or the like with regard to other elements and/or properties thereof (e.g., structures, surfaces, directions, or the like) may be perpendicular, parallel, coplanar, or the like or may be substantially perpendicular, substantially parallel, substantially coplanar, respectively, with regard to the other elements and/or properties thereof.

[0060] Elements and/or properties thereof (e.g., structures, surfaces, directions, or the like) that are substantially perpendicular, substantially parallel, or substantially coplanar with regard to other elements and/or properties thereof will be understood to be perpendicular, parallel, or coplanar, respectively, with regard to the other elements and/or properties thereof within manufacturing tolerances and/or material tolerances and/or have a deviation in magnitude and/or angle from perpendicular, parallel, or coplanar, respectively, with regard to the other elements and/or properties thereof that is equal to or less than 10% (e.g., a. tolerance of 10%).

[0061] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms a, an, and the are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms includes, including, comprises, and/or comprising, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, and/or elements, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or groups thereof.

[0062] When the words about and substantially are used in this specification in connection with a numerical value, it is intended that the associated numerical value include a tolerance of 10% around the stated numerical value, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0063] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0064] Example embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of example embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, example embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. Elements referenced by common reference numeral may be substantially the same unless otherwise described.

[0065] At least some example embodiments are directed to packages and/or containers that are considered to be child-resistant packages (CR packages), from the standpoint that an opening of the packages requires a complex motion involving an application of different forces in different directions. In at least one example embodiment, CR packages are used to reduce a risk of children and/or the elderly accessing and ingesting, or being exposed to, substances or materials contained therein. In at least some example embodiment, the packages are tested under guidelines from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Poison Prevention Packaging Act and are certified under 16 CFR 1700.2 (Jan. 1, 2012), and/or the packages are tested as defined by Standard ISO 8317:2015, in order to ensure the packages are child-resistant and provide child-resistant access to one or more storage areas of the packages. In at least one example embodiment, the packages are tested under guidelines from Canadian standard CAN/CSA Z76.1-21.

[0066] In at least one example embodiment, the packages and/or containers include or can contain at least one substance. In at least one example embodiment, the at least one substance is a consumer product. In at least one example embodiment, the at least one substance and/or the consumer product includes an oral product. In at least one example embodiment, the oral product is one or more pouches.

[0067] In at least one example embodiment, the oral product is an oral tobacco product, an oral non-tobacco product, an oral cannabis product, or any combination thereof. The oral product may be in a form of loose material (e.g., loose cellulosic material), shaped material (e.g., plugs or twists), pouched material, tablets, lozenges, chews, gums, films, any other oral product, or any combination thereof.

[0068] The oral product may include chewing tobacco, snus, moist snuff tobacco, dry snuff tobacco, other smokeless tobacco and non-tobacco products for oral consumption, or any combination thereof.

[0069] Where the oral product is an oral tobacco product including smokeless tobacco product, the smokeless tobacco product may include tobacco that is whole, shredded, cut, granulated, reconstituted, cured, aged, fermented, pasteurized, or otherwise processed. Tobacco may be present as whole or portions of leaves, flowers, roots, stems, extracts (e.g., nicotine), or any combination thereof.

[0070] In at least one example embodiment, the oral product includes a tobacco extract, such as a tobacco-derived nicotine extract, and/or synthetic nicotine. The oral product may include nicotine alone or in combination with a carrier (e.g., white snus), such as a cellulosic material. The carrier may be a non-tobacco material (e.g., microcrystalline cellulose) or a tobacco material (e.g., tobacco fibers having reduced or eliminated nicotine content, which may be referred to as exhausted tobacco plant tissue or fibers). In some example embodiments, the exhausted tobacco plant tissue or fibers can be treated to remove at least 25%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% of the nicotine. For example, the tobacco plant tissue can be washed with water or another solvent to remove the nicotine.

[0071] In other example embodiments, the oral product may include cannabis, such as cannabis plant tissue and/or cannabis extracts. In at least one example embodiment, the cannabis material includes leaf and/or flower material from one or more species of cannabis plants and/or extracts from the one or more species of cannabis plants. The one or more species of cannabis plants may include Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and/or Cannabis ruderalis. In at least one example embodiment, the cannabis may be in the form of fibers. In at least one example embodiment, the cannabis may include a cannabinoid, a terpene, and/or a flavonoid. In at least one example embodiment, the cannabis material may be a cannabis-derived cannabis material, such as a cannabis-derived cannabinoid, a cannabis-derived terpene, and/or a cannabis-derived flavonoid.

[0072] The oral product (e.g., the oral tobacco product, the oral non-tobacco product, or the oral cannabis product) may have various ranges of moisture. In at least one example embodiment, the oral product is a dry oral product having a moisture content ranging from 5% by weight to 10% by weight. In at least one example embodiment, the oral product has a medium moisture content, such as a moisture content ranging from 20% by weight to 35% by weight. In at least one example embodiment, the oral product is a wet oral product having a moisture content ranging from 40% by weight to 55% by weight.

[0073] In at least one example embodiment, oral product may further include one or more elements such as a mouth-stable polymer, a mouth-soluble polymer, a sweetener (e.g., a synthetic sweetener and/or a natural sweetener), an energizing agent, a soothing agent, a focusing agent, a plasticizer, mouth-soluble fibers, an alkaloid, a mineral, a vitamin, a dietary supplement, a nutraceutical, a coloring agent, an amino acid, a chemesthetic agent, an antioxidant, a food-grade emulsifier, a pH modifier, a botanical, a tooth-whitening agent, a therapeutic agent, a processing aid, a stearate, a wax, a stabilizer, a disintegrating agent, a lubricant, a preservative, a filler, a flavorant, flavor masking agents, a bitterness receptor site blocker, a receptor site enhancers, other additives, or any combination thereof.

[0074] In at least one example embodiment, the package and/or container may contain any product or substance. For example, the package and/or container may contain confectionary products, food products, medicines, or any other product.

[0075] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a container 100, in accordance with at least one example embodiment.

[0076] FIG. 1B is a top down view of the underside of a top cap, according to at least one example embodiment.

[0077] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the container 100 includes a base 130 and a top cap 150. In at least one example embodiment the container may further include a bottom lid 170. In at least one example embodiment, the container 100 is substantially cylindrical in shape. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. For example, the container 100 may be any shape such that the top cap 150 may rotate about the base from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration as described in more detail below. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may be configured to rotate about a central axis of the base 130 extending in an axial (e.g., vertical) direction.

[0078] In at least one example embodiment, the base may include a bottom wall 132 and a base side wall 134 that extends vertically from a periphery of the base bottom wall 132. For example, the base side wall 134 may extend in a direction transverse to the base bottom wall 132. In at least some example embodiments, the base bottom wall 132 and the base sidewall 134 may be a single continuous structure (e.g., formed from a single composition). In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may extend vertically above the base bottom wall 132 and vertically below the base bottom wall 132.

[0079] In at least one example embodiment, the base bottom wall 132 may include a first portion 132A and a second portion 132B. In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 132B may be at a level vertically lower than the first portion 132A. For example, in at least one example embodiment, there may be a step connecting the first region 132A and the second region 132B. In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 132B may serve as a point of connection between the base 130 and the bottom lid 170 as described in greater detail below.

[0080] In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include a lower portion 134A and an upper portion 134B. In at least one example embodiment, the upper portion 134B may be separated from the lower portion 134A by a step or ridge such that an outer diameter of the lower portion 134A is greater than an outer diameter of the upper portion 134B. In at least one example embodiment, the step or ridge (e.g., a top surface of the lower portion 134A) may be parallel to an upper surface of the base bottom wall 132. In at least one example embodiment, the step or ridge may be inclined such that the step or ridge has an outer diameter that continuously and substantially changes from the outer diameter of the lower portion 134A to the outer diameter of the upper portion 134B. For example, the incline may a uniform or a non-unform change in outer diameter.

[0081] In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may define a pair of slits 136 (e.g., notches or recesses) in the base side wall 134. In at least one example embodiment, the pair of slits 136 may extend from the upper portion 134B into the lower portion 134A. In at least one example embodiment, the pair of slits 136 may define a flexible region 138 between the respective pair of slits 136. In at least one example embodiment, the pair of slits may extend only partially down the base side wall 134. For example, the pair of slits may extend through the upper portion 134B and only partially extend into the lower portion 134A.

[0082] In at least one example embodiment, the flexible region 138 is configured to deflect radially inward with respect to the base side wall 134 in response to external pressure applied to an outer surface of the flexible region 138. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the flexible region 138 may have a rigid lower portion that corresponds to the end of the pair of slits 136 in the lower portion 134A and the flexible region 138 may have a flexible upper region that corresponds to the upper portion 134B between the pair of slits 136 such that the flexible portion may flex radially inwardly about the rigid lower portion.

[0083] In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may define multiple pairs of slits 136 and multiple flexible regions 138. In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include two pairs of slits 136 corresponding to two flexible regions 138 on opposite sides of the base 130. For example, the two flexible regions may be arranged 180 degrees apart. In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include three flexible regions spaced 120 degrees apart or four flexible regions spaced 90 degrees apart. In at least one example embodiment, the flexible regions 138 are symmetrically arranged on the base 130. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include a single flexible region 138. In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include up to five flexible regions 138. For example, the flexible regions 138 may be asymmetrically arranged on the base side wall 134. For example, the base side wall 134 may include five flexible region 138 that are arranged to generally mirror the position of the finger of a hand of an adult consumer. In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include any number or arrangement of flexible regions 138 such that an adult consumer may be able to open the container 100 with a single hand.

[0084] In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include a first locking protrusion 140. In at least one example embodiment, the first locking protrusion 140 may extend radially outward from the base side wall 134. In at least one example embodiment, the first locking protrusion 140 may have a rectangular shape. In some example embodiments, the first locking protrusion 140 may have a triangular shape. In some example embodiments, the first locking protrusion 140 may have a rounded shape. In some example embodiments, the first locking protrusion 140 may have a top surface that is inclined with respect to the base side wall 134 and the first locking protrusion may have a bottom surface that is perpendicular to the base side wall 134. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto as the first locking protrusion 140 may be any such shape capable of making contact with the second locking protrusion 156 such that the first locking protrusion 140 and the second locking protrusion 156 hold the top cap 150 and the base 130 in contact in the closed configuration as described in further detail below.

[0085] In at least one example embodiment, the first locking protrusion 140 may extend radially outward from upper portion 134B. In at least one example embodiment, the first locking protrusion 140 may have an outer diameter that is less than the outer diameter of the lower portion 134A. For example, the first locking protrusion 140 may have an outer diameter that is less than the outer diameter of the lower portion 134A by a distance that is substantially the same as the thickness of the top cap side wall 154. In at least one example embodiment, the first locking protrusion 140 may have an outer diameter than is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the lower portion 134A.

[0086] In at least one example embodiment, the first locking protrusion 140 may extend radially outward from a flexible region 138. For example, the first locking protrusions 140 may extend radially outward from an upper portion of the flexible region 138 between the pair of slits 136. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. As described in more detail below, the first locking protrusions 140 may extend radially outward from a locking region 142 that extends beyond the flexible region 138 in a circumferential direction in the upper portion 134B.

[0087] In at least one example embodiment, an area of the base side wall 134 in which the first locking protrusions 140 extend radially outward may be considered a locking region 142. In at least one example embodiment, the locking region 142 may include the flexible region 138 and the pair of slits 136. The locking region 142 may extend in a circumferential direction about the upper portion 134B beyond the pair of slits 136. For example, in at least one example embodiment, an area of the base side wall 134 corresponding to a first pair of slits 136 and a first flexible region 138 may be a first locking region 142 and an area of the base side wall 134 corresponding to a second pair of slits 136 and a second flexible region 138 may be a second locking region 142.

[0088] For example, in at least one example embodiment in which the base side wall 134 includes two locking regions 142, the locking regions 142 may extend in an arc of about 90 to about 160 degrees about the upper portion 134B. In at least one example embodiment, the locking regions 142 may be spaced apart by spacing regions 144. The spacing regions 144 may be defined by the absence of first locking protrusions 140 therein. For example, in at least one example embodiment in which the base side wall include two spacing regions, the spacing regions may have an arc length of about 20 to about 90 degrees. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto.

[0089] For example, in at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include a single locking region 142. In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include up to five locking regions 142 (corresponding to five pairs of slits and five flexible regions defined by each of the five pairs of slits). In at least one example embodiment, the locking regions 142 are symmetrically spaced around the base side wall 134. For example, in at least one example embodiment including three locking regions 142, the three locking regions 142 may be arranged at 120 degree angles with respect to one another. In at least one example embodiment including four locking regions 142, the four locking regions 142 may be arranged at 90 degree angles with respect to one another. In at least one example embodiment, the locking regions are a-symmetrically spaced apart around the base side wall 134. In at least one example embodiment, the locking regions 142 are spaced apart around the base side wall 134 such that the locking regions 142 are arranged to match the spacing between the fingers of an adult consumer. In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include any number of locking regions 142 that correspond to the number of flexible regions 138. In at least one example embodiment, a locking region 142 may correspond to multiple flexible regions 138.

[0090] In at least one example embodiment, the first locking protrusion 140 may not extend continuously around the base sidewall 134. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the first locking protrusion 140 may be subdivided into multiple first locking protrusions 140. The first locking protrusion 140 may be subdivided into arcs in the circumferential direction about the upper portion 134A corresponding to the locking regions 142 described above. The subdivided arcs of the first locking protrusions 140 may have the same arc length or the arc length may vary between the subdivisions. The first locking protrusions may be spaced apart by spacing regions 144. The arrangement and orientation of the first locking protrusions 140 may be similar to the arrangement and placement of the first locking regions 142 described above. In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include any number of first locking protrusions 140 corresponding to the number of flexible regions 138.

[0091] In at least one example embodiment, the upper portion 134B extends vertically upward beyond the first locking protrusion 140 such that, in response to the flexible region 138 being deflected radially inward, the first locking protrusion 140 may separate from the second locking protrusion 156 and the upper portion 134B may contact the third locking protrusions 158 when the container is in the locked configuration as described in greater detail below. In at least one example embodiment, the upper portion 134B may include a recess extending around an outer surface of the upper portion beneath the first locking protrusion 140 so as to accommodate the second locking protrusion 156 described in greater detail below.

[0092] In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include a top wall 152 and a side wall 154. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 is configured to be separable from the base 130. In at least one configuration, the top cap 150 and the base 130, in a closed configuration, may define a first containment volume 110.

[0093] In at least one example embodiment, the top cap side wall 154 may extend vertically from the top wall 152. In at least some example embodiments, the top wall 152 and the top cap side wall 154 may be a single continuous structure (e.g., formed from a single composition). For example, in at least one example embodiment the top cap side wall 154 may extend in a direction transverse to the top cap top wall 152. In at least one example embodiment, an outer diameter of the top cap side wall 154 is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the lower portion 134A of the base side wall 134. In at least one example embodiment, a bottom surface of the top cap side wall 154 is substantially parallel to the top surface of the bottom portion 134A of the base side wall 134.

[0094] In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include a second locking protrusion 156 extending radially inward from the top cap side wall 154. In at least one example embodiment, the second locking protrusion 156 and the first locking protrusion 140 may be configured to lock (e.g., prevent from separating) the top cap 150 to the base 130 when the top cap 130 and the base 150 are in a closed (e.g., unseparated) configuration to be described in further detail below. In at least one example embodiment, the second locking protrusion 156 may extend radially inward from an inner surface of the top cap side wall 154. In at least example embodiment, the second locking protrusion 156 may not extend continuously around an entirety of the inner surface of the top cap side wall 154. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the second locking protrusion 156 may be subdivided into multiple sub-locking protrusions 156A and 156B.

[0095] For example, in at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include a number of second locking protrusions 156 that is greater than a number of first locking protrusions 140 on a base 130 corresponding to the top cap 150. For example, in at least one example embodiment the top cap 150 may include one set of first set of sub-locking protrusions 156A, a second set of second sub-locking protrusions 156B (see FIG. 1B), and the base may include two first sub-locking protrusions 140 (see FIG. 1A). In at least one example embodiment, the second locking protrusions 156 may have a rectangular shape. In some example embodiments, the second locking protrusions 156 may have a triangular shape. In some example embodiments, the second locking protrusions 156 may have a rounded shape. In some example embodiments, the second locking protrusions 156 may have a top surface that is perpendicular with respect to the top cap side wall 1354 and the first locking protrusion may have a bottom surface that is angled with respect to the top cap side wall 154. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto as the second locking protrusion 156 may be any such shape capable of making contact with the first locking protrusion 140 such that the first locking protrusion 140 and the second locking protrusion 156 hold the top cap 150 and the base 130 in contact in the closed configuration as described in further detail below.

[0096] In at least one example embodiment, the set of first sub-locking protrusions 156A and the set of second sub-locking protrusions 156B may be spaced apart in a circumferential direction around the inner surface of the top cap side wall 154. In at least one example embodiment, the number and arrangement of the first sub-locking protrusions 156A may correspond to the number and arrangement of the flexible regions 138 as described above. For example, the top cap 150 may include one or more first sub-locking protrusions 156A that may be spaced symmetrically or asymmetrically about the inner surface of the top cap side wall 154. In at least one example embodiment, the arc length of the first sub-locking protrusions 156A may be less than or equal to an arc length of the flexible regions 138. In at least one example embodiment, in the unlocked configuration, the first sub-locking protrusions 156A may be radially aligned with the flexible regions 138 as discussed in more detail below.

[0097] In at least one example embodiment, the number and arrangement of the second sub-locking protrusions 156B may correspond to the number and arrangement of the spacing regions 144 as described above. For example, the top cap 150 may include one or more first sub-locking protrusions 156b that may be spaced symmetrically or asymmetrically about the inner surface of the top cap side wall 154. In at least one example embodiment, an arc length of the second sub-locking protrusions 156B may be less than or equal to the arc length of the spacing region 144. In at least one example embodiment, in the unlocked configuration, the second sub-locking protrusions 156b may be radially aligned with the spacing regions 144 as discussed in more detail below. In at least one example embodiment, the arc length of the first sub-locking protrusion 156A and the arc length of the second sub-locking protrusion may be different. For example, the arc length of the first sub-locking protrusions 156A may be greater than the arc length of the first sub-locking protrusions 156B.

[0098] In at least one example embodiment including two flexible regions 138, the set of first sub-locking protrusions 156A and the set of second sub-locking protrusions 156B may be spaced apart at 90 degree angles. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. For example, in at least one example embodiment including only one flexible region 138, the first sub-locking protrusion 156A may be oriented 180 degrees about the top cap side wall 154 from the second sub-locking protrusion 156b. For example, in at least one example embodiment including four flexible regions 138, the top cap side wall 154 may include four first sub-locking protrusions 156A and four second sub-locking protrusions 156B arranged in an alternating fashion such that each first sub-locking protrusion 156A and second sub-locking protrusion 156B are positioned at a 45 degree angle with respect to adjacent second locking protrusions 156. For example, in at least one example embodiment including three flexible regions 1438, the top cap side wall 154 may include three first sub-locking protrusions 156A and three second sub-locking protrusions 156B arranged in an alternating fashion such that each first sub-locking protrusion 156A and second sub-locking protrusion 156B are positioned at a 60 degree angle with respect to adjacent second locking protrusions 156. In at least some example embodiments the first sub-locking protrusions 156A and the second sub-locking protrusions 156B may be arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to the top cap side wall 154. In at least some example embodiments, the first sub-locking protrusions 156A and the second sub-locking protrusion 156B may by arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to each other. That is to say, the first sub-locking protrusions 156A and the second sub-locking protrusions 156B may not be evenly spaced apart. In at least one example embodiment, the number of first sub-locking protrusions 156A may not be equal to a number of second sub-locking protrusions 156B. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the top cap side wall 154 may include four first sub-locking protrusions and only two second sub-locking protrusions. Suffice to say, the top cap 150 may include any number and arrangement of second locking protrusions 156 so long as the first sub-locking protrusions 156A may be aligned with the flexible regions 138 and the second sub-locking protrusions 156B may be aligned with the spacing regions 144 in the unlocked configuration.

[0099] In at least one example embodiment the top cap 150 may further include a third locking protrusion 158. In at least one example embodiment, the third locking protrusion 158 may have a rectangular shape. In some example embodiments, the third locking protrusion 158 may have a triangular shape. In some example embodiments, the third locking protrusion 158 may have a rounded shape. In some example embodiments, the second locking protrusion 158 may have an outer surface that is angled with respect to the top cap side wall 1354 and the third locking protrusion may have an inner surface that is parallel to the top cap side wall 154. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto as the third locking protrusion 158 may be any such shape capable of making contact with the upper portion 134B of a flexible region 138 should the flexible region 138 be deflected radially inward in the locked configuration as described in further detail below. In at least one example embodiment, the third locking protrusion may extend vertically from a periphery of the top cap top wall 152. For example, the third locking protrusion 158 may extend in the same vertical direction as the top cap side wall 154. For example, the third locking protrusion 158 may extend in a vertical direction from the top cap top wall 152 toward the second locking protrusion 156. In at least one example embodiment, the third locking protrusion may have a substantially circular or ring shape. In at least example embodiment, the third locking protrusion 158 may not extend continuously around a bottom surface of the top cap top wall 152. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the third locking protrusion 158 may be subdivided into multiple third sub-locking protrusions 158.

[0100] In at least one example embodiment, the third locking protrusion 158 may be subdivided into third sub-locking protrusions spaced apart as depicted in FIG. 1B. In at least one example embodiment, the third sub-locking protrusions may be arranged symmetrically around the top cap top wall 152. In at least one example embodiment, the third locking protrusions 158 may be arranged asymmetrically around the top cap. In at least one example embodiment, the third sub-locking protrusions may arranged at 90 degree angles. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include only two third locking protrusions 158 that extend around the ring shape of the third locking protrusions 158. For example, the two locking protrusions may each have an arc more than 90 degrees (e.g., extend more than one fourth of the way around the top cap 150, extend about 135 degrees around the top cap 150) and be spaced apart from each other. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include up to five or more third locking protrusions 158 being symmetrically or asymmetrically arranged about the top cap 150 having uniform or differing arc lengths of the third locking protrusions 158 such that the third locking protrusions 158 do not radially overlap the second locking protrusions 156. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include up to five or more third locking protrusions 158 being symmetrically or asymmetrically arranged about the top cap 150 having uniform or differing arc lengths of the third locking protrusions 158 such that the third locking protrusions 158 radially overlap the second sub-locking protrusions 156B but do not radially overlap the first sub-locking protrusions 156A.

[0101] In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include a notch 160 (e.g., a recess) defined by a bottom surface of the top cap side wall 154. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include multiple notches 160 (e.g., multiple recesses) defined by a bottom surface of the top cap side wall 154 such that in a closed configuration an adult operator may fit the tip of a finger in the notch 160 between the base 130 and the top cap 150. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the bottom surface of the top cap side wall 154 may be slanted and parallel to a top surface of the ridge or step on the base side wall 134, thereby allowing an adult operator may more readily separate the top cap from the base. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include two notches 160 defined by a bottom surface of the top cap side wall 154 that are positioned opposite one another. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include multiple notches 160 that are arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically about the bottom surface of the top cap side wall 154. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include multiple notches 160 that are arranged to correspond to the natural configuration of the hand of an adult operator. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include two notches that are spaced 180 degrees apart. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include three notches that are spaced 120 degrees apart. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include four notches spaced 90 degrees apart. In at least one example embodiment the top cap 150 may include any number or arrangement of notches 160 such that the notches 160 vertically overlap with the first sub-locking protrusions 156A.

[0102] In least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include a second notch 162 defined by an exterior surface of the top cap side wall 154 or the top cap top wall 152 that radially aligns with the notch 160. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include multiple second notches 162 defined by an exterior surface of the top cap side wall 154 or the top cap top wall 152 that are radially aligned with a respective notch 160. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include two second notches 162 defined by an exterior surface of the top cap side wall 154 or the top cap top wall 152. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include multiple second notches 162 that are arranged symmetrically about the top cap 150 each corresponding with a respective notch 160. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include multiple second notches 162 that are arranged to correspond to the natural configuration of the hand of an adult operator. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include two notches 162 that are arranged 180 degrees apart. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may include three notches 162 that are arranged 120 degrees apart. In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 may includes four notches 162 that are arranged 90 degrees apart. The second notches 162 may be any shape, size, or structure (for example a protrusion) such that they serve as a visual indicator to an adult operator as to the orientation of the top cap 150 with respect to the base 130 such that the adult operator may determine if the top cap 150 is in the locked or unlocked configuration when the base 130 and the top cap 150 are in the closed configuration. In at least one example embodiment the top cap 150 may include any number or arrangement of notches 162 such that they vertically overlap with the first sub-locking protrusions 156A.

[0103] In at least one example embodiment, the second locking protrusion 156 and the third locking protrusion 158 may be offset in a radial direction. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the second locking protrusion 156 may not radially overlap the third locking protrusion 158. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the third locking protrusions 158 may include two third locking protrusions 158 and the top cap 150 may include first sub-locking protrusions 156A and second sub-locking protrusions 156B. The third locking protrusions 158 may radially overlap the second sub-locking protrusion 156B and may not radially overlap the first sub-locking protrusions 156A. In such a configuration, the top cap 150 and the base 130 may have only two unlocked configurations as described in more detail below.

[0104] In at least one example embodiment, the second locking protrusions 156 may be between adjacent third locking protrusions 158 in a circumferential direction. In at least one example embodiment, the notch 160 may radially overlap with the second locking protrusion 156. In at least one example embodiment, the second notch 162 may radially overlap the second locking protrusion 156. In at least one example embodiment, the second notch 162 may radially overlap the notch 160. In at least one example embodiment, the second notch 162 may vertically (e.g., axially) overlap the notch 160.

[0105] In at least one example embodiment, the top cap 150 is configured to detach or separate from the base 130 in an open configuration. Additionally, when the top cap 150 is in a closed configuration (e.g., not separated from, in contact with the base 130) the top cap 150 is configured to rotate about the base from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration. For example, in the unlocked configuration, the third locking protrusions 158 may be radially offset from the flexible region 138, and therefore, the flexible region 138 may be deflected radially inward, thereby releasing the second locking protrusion 156 from the first locking protrusion 140. For example, in the locked configuration, the flexible region 138 may be radially overlapped by the third locking protrusion 158, and therefore, the flexible region 138 may not be deflected radially inward to the degree necessary to separate the first locking protrusion 140 from the second locking protrusion 156.

[0106] In at least one example embodiment, in the unlocked configuration, the second locking protrusion 156 may radially overlap the flexible region 138. In at least one example embodiment, in the unlocked configuration, the notch 160 may radially overlap the flexible region 138. In at least one example embodiment, in the unlocked configuration, the second notch 162 may radially overlap the flexible region 138. In at least one example embodiment, in the unlocked configuration, the third locking protrusion 158 may be radially off set from the flexible region 138. For example, in at least one example embodiment, in the unlocked configuration, the third locking protrusion 158 may not radially overlap the flexible region 138. For example, the third locking protrusion 158 may not radially overlap the flexible region 138 and the flexible region 138 may be deflected radially inward such that the first locking protrusions 140 does not vertically overlap the second locking protrusions 156, thereby allowing the top cap 150 to be separated from the base 130. In at least one example embodiment, in the unlocked configuration, second locking protrusions 156 that do not radially overlap the locking region 142 may radially overlap the spacing regions 144.

[0107] In at least one example embodiment, in the locked configuration, the second locking protrusion 156 may not radially overlap the flexible region 138. In at least one example embodiment, in the locked configuration, the second locking protrusion 156 may partially overlap the flexible region 138. In at least one example embodiment, in the locked configuration, the notch 160 may not radially overlap the flexible region 138. In at least one example embodiment, in the locked configuration, the notch 160 may partially overlap the flexible region 142. For example, in at least one example embodiment, in the locked configuration, the second locking protrusion 156, the notch 160, and the second notch 162 may be radially offset from the flexible region 138. For example, the third locking protrusion 158 may radially overlap (e.g., partially overlap) the flexible region 138. For example, the third locking protrusion 158 may radially overlap the flexible region 138 and prevent the flexible region 138 from deflecting inwardly such that the first locking protrusions 140 continue to vertically overlap the second locking protrusions 156 and thereby preventing the top cap 150 from separating from the base 130. Thus, in at least one example embodiment, when the flexible region 138 is deflected radially inward in the locked configuration, the flexible region may contact (e.g., directly contact) the third locking protrusion and thereby prevent the top cap 150 and the base 130 from separating.

[0108] In at least one example embodiment, the bottom lid 170 may be snap fit (e.g., friction fit) to the base 130. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the second portion 132B of the base bottom wall 132 may include a receptacle 146 (e.g. recess) configured to receive a connecting portion 172 (e.g., a protrusion) extending from the bottom lid 170. In at least one example embodiment, the receptacle 146 may be an aperture in which the connecting portion 172 extends therethrough. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the connecting portion 172 may extend vertically from a connecting region 174 of the bottom lid 170. In at least one example embodiment, the connecting portion 172 may be hollow such that it is flexible. In at least one example embodiment, the connecting portion 172 may be tapered such that an end of the connecting portion 172 may have an outer diameter that is less than an outer diameter of the connecting portion adjacent to the bottom lid 170. In at least one example, the connecting portion may have a flared end opposite the end of the connecting portion 172 connected to the connecting region 174. In at least one example embodiment, portion of the connecting region 174 may extend into a recess or aperture 176 in the base side wall 134. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. For example, the connecting region 174 may be arranged in a plurality of different configurations to form a snap fit or a friction fit connection between the connecting region 174 and the base 130.

[0109] In at least one example embodiment, the connecting region 174 may be connected to a lid region 178 by a hinge 180. For example, in at least one example embodiment the hinge 180 may be a living hinge. In at least one example embodiment, the connecting region 174, the lid region 178, and the hinge 180 may be a single continuous piece of material. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. In at least one example embodiment, the lid region 178 may pivot (e.g., rotate) about the hinge 180 from an open configuration to a closed configuration such that the lid region 178 contacts the base 130. In at least one example embodiment, in a closed configuration, the base bottom wall 132, the base side wall 134, and the bottom lid 170 may define a second containment volume 120 isolated from the first containment volume 110. In some example embodiments, the second containment volume 120 may be at least partially defined by an inner surface of the base side wall 134 that may have a planar surface extending from the base bottom wall 132 to a top of the base side wall 134.

[0110] In at least one example embodiment, the lid region 178 may include a skirt 182 that extends from the periphery of the lid region 178. In a closed configuration, the skirt 182 may contact a surface of the base side wall 134 and a surface of the base 130. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the skirt 182 may contact a surface of the ridge or step between the first portion 132A and the second portion 132B.

[0111] In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include a plurality of base protrusions 184 that extend radially inward from the base side wall 134. In at least one example embodiment, the base protrusions 184 may form a friction fit with the skirt 182 holding the lid region 178 in place in a closed configuration. However, the examples are not so limited thereto. In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include a plurality of recesses, such that each recess is between a respective base protrusion 184 and the base bottom wall 132. In at least one example embodiment, the skirt 182 may include protrusions that extend radially outward from the skirt 182. In at least one example embodiment, the skirt may include a plurality of recesses such that each recess is between a respective lid protrusion and the lid region 178. In at least one example embodiment, in the closed configuration, the lid protrusions may fit together with (e.g., be in contact with) the recess in the base side wall 134 between the base protrusion 184 and the base bottom wall 132. In at least one example embodiment, in the closed configuration, the base wall protrusion may fit together with (e.g., be in contact with) the recess in the skirt 182 between the lid protrusion and the lid region 178.

[0112] In at least one example embodiment, a portion of the lid region 178 may extend beyond the outer diameter of the base side wall 134. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may include a recess 148 (e.g., a notch) such that a portion of the lid region 178 may extend through the base side wall 134. For example, the lid region 178 may fit in the recess 148 such that a bottom surface of the lid region 178 is substantially coplanar with a lower surface of the base side wall 134. In at least one example embodiment an outer surface of the lid region 178 and the connecting region 174 may be substantially coplanar in the closed configuration. In at least one example embodiment, the base side wall 134 may not include a recess 148 and the lid region 178 may be on a lower surface of the base side wall 134. In some example embodiments, a bottom surface of the lid 178 may be coplanar with a bottom surface of the base side wall 134.

[0113] In at least one example embodiment, the container 100 may be formed from one or more polymers. In at least one example embodiment, the container 100 may be formed of one or more homopolymers, one or more copolymers, or any combination of one or more homopolymers and copolymers. In at least one example embodiment, the polymer may include a thermoplastic polymer. In at least one example embodiment, the polymer may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), a polyethylene (PE), or any combination thereof. In at least one example embodiment, the polymer may be suitable for storing an oral product having one or more flavorings and/or volatile agents therein. In some example embodiments, the container 100 may further include one or more coatings on an inner surface thereof, if desired. In at least one example embodiment, the container 100 may further include a seal around the base 130 and the top cap 150. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the container 100 may include a sticker wrapped around an exterior surface of the base 130 and the top cap 150.

[0114] In at least one example embodiment the container 100 may be formed by injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, compression molding, vacuum casting, 3D printing and/or any other any other suitable process.

[0115] In at least one example embodiment, the first containment volume 110 may include an oral product. In at least one example embodiment, the second containment volume 120 may be empty. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto.

[0116] In at least one example embodiment, the oral product is an oral tobacco product, an oral non-tobacco product, an oral cannabis product, an oral caffeine product, or any combination thereof. The oral product may include loose material (e.g., loose cellulosic material), shaped material (e.g., plugs or twists), pouched material, tablets, lozenges, chews, gums, films, any other oral product, or any combination thereof.

[0117] The oral product may include chewing tobacco, snus, moist snuff tobacco, dry snuff tobacco, other smokeless tobacco and non-tobacco products for oral consumption, or any combination thereof. In at least one example embodiment, the oral product may be a pouched oral product. In at least one example embodiment, the pouched oral product may include nicotine, tobacco, or caffeine.

[0118] In some example embodiments, the container 100 may include one or more breakable seals. For example, such one or more breakable seals may be a sticker or label on an exterior surface on the container 100. For example, in at least one example embodiment, a breakable seal may partially or completely cover an exterior surface of the base side wall 134 and the top cap top wall 154 such that the first containment volume 110 may be partially or completely isolated from an external environment. In at least one example embodiment, a breakable seal may partially or completely cover a bottom surface of the lid region 178 and a bottom surface of the base side wall 134 such that the second containment volume 120 may be partially or completely isolated from an external environment. In at least one example embodiment, one breakable seal isolates, either partially or completely, the first containment volume 110 and the second containment volume 120 from an external environment. In at least one example embodiment, the first containment volume is isolated, partially or completely, from an external environment by a first breakable seal and the second containment volume 120 is isolated, partially or completely, from an external environment by a second breakable seal. In at least one example embodiment in which the bottom surface of the base side wall 134 is coplanar with the bottom surface of the lid region 178, a breakable seal may be more easily and more uniformly be applied to a bottom surface of the container 100 thereby improving manufacturing quality and uniform appearance.

[0119] Example embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.