CA1309037C - Tamper-resistant container utilizing a flexible seal - Google Patents
Tamper-resistant container utilizing a flexible sealInfo
- Publication number
- CA1309037C CA1309037C CA000579838A CA579838A CA1309037C CA 1309037 C CA1309037 C CA 1309037C CA 000579838 A CA000579838 A CA 000579838A CA 579838 A CA579838 A CA 579838A CA 1309037 C CA1309037 C CA 1309037C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- container
- rib
- volatile material
- free
- sealing layer
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
- B65D77/10—Container closures formed after filling
- B65D77/20—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers, i.e. flexible membrane or foil-like covers
- B65D77/2024—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers, i.e. flexible membrane or foil-like covers the cover being welded or adhered to the container
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2577/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks, bags
- B65D2577/10—Container closures formed after filling
- B65D2577/20—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers
- B65D2577/2066—Means on, or attached to, container flange facilitating opening, e.g. non-bonding region, cut-out
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S261/00—Gas and liquid contact apparatus
- Y10S261/88—Aroma dispensers
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF DISCLOSURE
An open-ended tamper-resistant container having a flexible seal over the open end is disclosed. The tamper-resistant container is particularly suited for holding a volatile material for slow diffusion. The container has at least one free-standing rib which prevents downward pressure or squeezing on the flexible seal of the container which could otherwise rupture the seal and/or result in leakage of the material held in the container. The tamper-resistant container is suitable for independent use or use in conjunction with an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
(3346n)
An open-ended tamper-resistant container having a flexible seal over the open end is disclosed. The tamper-resistant container is particularly suited for holding a volatile material for slow diffusion. The container has at least one free-standing rib which prevents downward pressure or squeezing on the flexible seal of the container which could otherwise rupture the seal and/or result in leakage of the material held in the container. The tamper-resistant container is suitable for independent use or use in conjunction with an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
(3346n)
Description
~3~3~
J-1~7~
PATE~TS
A TAMPER-RESISTANT CONTAINE~
UTILIZING A FLEXIB~E SEAL
The present invention is directed to a tamper-resistant container utilizing a f lexible seal particularly suited for holding a volatile material to be dispensed by slow diffusion. More particularly, the tamper-resistant container utilizes one or more free-standing ribs to prevent the container's flexible seal from being ruptured. The tamper-resistant container i8 suitable for independent use or for use with an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
~3~91)37 BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
The prioL art aiscloses open-ended containers f or holding a volatile material which utilizes a plurality of layers to seal the container. Generally, one layer of material is permeable and pe~manently secured to ~he open end of the container and a second layer of material is impermeable and removable for when the container is utilized to dispense the volatile material. Thus. U.S. Patent No. 4,157,787 discloses an air freshene~ dispenser having a container with an opening at its u~per end surrounded by a peripheral flange. The open upper end of the container is covered with a porous layer secured to the upper surface of the flange and a re~ovable nonporous la~er which is ~emo~ably secured to the upper surface of the porou~ la~er. U.S. Paten~ No. 4,145.001 discloses a package utilizing a multi-layer sealing laminate. The innsr layer is permeable to a volatile material held within the package and the outer layer is i~permeable. The outer layer is removed to expose the inner layer when the package is ~o be used.
The prior art also discloses containers useful for variou~ puræose~ which have one or more upwardly directed pro-jec~ions in the base of the container. The pro jections, however. are not used in con3unction with a container seal.
Thus, U.S. Design Patent No. 135,588 discloses a ration container comprising a tray with upstanding sidewalls having a ridge extending upward from the bottom surface of the tray to a level just below the upper edge of the tray sidewalls. U.S.
Patent No. 2,422,814 discloses a sta~p pad having a bottom container divided into a plurality of ink containing reser-voirs. The reservoirs are separated by upstanding ridges. An ~3~ 3~
absorbent pad extends across the top of the reservoirs. When ink is to be absorbed into the pad from the reservoirs, the pad is pressed downward until it contacts the reservoirs between the rîdges. U.S. Patent No. 3,221,971 discloses a 2ackaging tray having a plurality of upwardly curving fingers around the edge of ~he tray and a rib means provided on the bottom of the tray. The rib means is disclosed as ~acilitating the placement of articles in the tray and en~uring that the articles remain properly eositioned during transportation. While the packaging tray is disclosed for use with an overwrap, the rib does not extend upward above the articles held in ~he tray. U.S. Patent No. 3,466.424 discloses a metallic cartridge for holding an eva~oratable material. The cartridge has an opening in the central upper region of the cartridge. The cartridge additionally has a sligh~ly raised portion in the bottom surface of the cartridge which reduces the amount of evaporatable material which can be d;sposed directly underneath the vaeor exit port, provides for a hotter region in the area of the exit po~t, and prevents clogging of the openings in the exit port during va~or deposition.
Various containers are also disclosed in the prior art which u~ilize ribs and a con~ainer seal. However. ~he ribs and seal are not disclosed as operating in conjunction with each other. The ribs are solely related ~o the bottom s~ructure of the containers and are utilized to provide strength, drainage or the like. For example, U.S. Patent No. 4.055,S72 discloses a package providing for a contLolled atmospheric condition through the use of permeable and impermeable films and a package bottom wall containing downwardly extending grooves.
The grooves provide a collection point for any fluid discharged from the material held within the package and also serve to enhance air circulation within the package once the outer impermeable layer i~ peeled away from the inner Rermeable layer.
The pLior art also discloses ~arious structures for electrically heated vapor dispensing ap~aratus which utilize containers or cartridges which are inserted into the a~paratus and which hold a,volatile ma~erial to be dispensed. ThUso U.S.
Patent No. 4,571,485 discloses an electrically heated aromatic generato~ utilizing a reelaceable aroma cube which is insectable into a well in the generator. The cube is an opan-ended chimney struc~ure having a shallow box supported therein at its lower end by means of spider ribs which extend between the cube walls. A porous pad having good wicking ~roeerties is held within the box and is impregnated with a volatile aromatic liquid. The pad is covered with a wire or pla~tic net which is secured to the box to retain the ~ad therein. A ~eel-off cover can be placed over the net to erevent vola~ili2ation of the liquid during prolonged storage of the cube. U.S. Patent Mo.
,4,3~3,377 discloses a hot air hand dryer having a housing which includes a perforated container or cue for holding a vaporizable deodori2ing material. The container or cup is screwed or snapped in place to the air dryer. The daodorizing material is in the ~orm of a stick or cake wh;ch is placed in the con~ainer or cup through a slot in ~he container. U.S.
Patent No. 3,990,R48 discloses a battery operated vapor ; dispensing de~ice utilizin~ a cartridge fo'r holding a vaporizable material. The cartridge inc'ludes a container having a number of holes in its top, bottom, and sides to facilitate the flo~ of air around a solid cylindrical block of va~orizable material which is held wi~hin the container. U.S.
Patent No. 4.629,604 discloses an aroma cartridge elayer ~3~g~;~7 --s--wherein each cartridge holds a plurali~y of fLagrances. The caLtridge has a rec~angular ~ulti-sectione~l ~ea~ework. The cartridge is in~erted into the cartridge p]ayer which utilizes heat to vaporize the volatile aromatic materials.
The prior art does not disclose the use of one or more free-standing ribs in conjunction with a flexible container seal to ~rovide a tamper-resista~t con~ainer. Further, the art does not disclose the use of such a container in combination with an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
A primary object of the present in~ention is to provide a container having a flexible seal and one or more free-standing ribs which is tamper-resistant.
~ further primary object o~ the present invention is to erovide a tamper-resistant container having a flexible seal and one or more free-standing ribs which i8 suitable for holding and dispensing a volatile material.
A further primary object of the present invention is to erovide a tamper-resistant container ~or holding a volatile material haYing a flexible seal and one or more free-standing ribs which is suitable for use with an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF I~VENTION
The tamper-resistant container of the present invention is preferably a thermoformed plastic container. More particularly, the plastic container is a tray-like structure ~3~ 37 having an open upper end surrounded by a peripheral flange.
The container can be filled with any desired material, but is particularly suited for holding and dispensing a volatile material. After the container is filled with a material, the open end of the container is sealed with a flexible seal. When the container is used to hold and dispense a volatile material, the seal preferably is multi-layered. The multi-layered seal has an inner non-removable layer of vapor permeable material and an outer removable layer of vapor impermeable material.
Whe~ the ~olatile material is to be dispensed fro~ the con~ainer, the outer vapor impermeable layer is peeled back from the container leaving the inner vapor permeable layer.
The inne~ layer maintains the volatile material inside the container and prevents the user of the container from contacting the material while simultaneously allowing the vapor from the material to be released into the surrounding atmosphere.
The tamæer-resistant feature of the package is in the form of a free-standing rib, or in the alternative a plurality of ribs, which are positioned within the container's walls, and which are integral with and extend upward from the container's bottom surface. Whether a single rib or a plurality of ribs are utili2ed, the rib or ribs do not extend from wall-to-wall in the interior of the container so that the rib or ribs do not divide the container into compartments. The rib(s) extend upward from the container's bottom surface to a level aeproximately coextensive with the peripheral flange surrounding the upper end of the container. The height of the rib(s) is such that it does not interfere with the attachment or placement of the container's seal. The rib(s) may also be a-t the same height as the flange and. less preferably, the ~3~37 bottom of the sealing layer may be adhered to the top of the rib to provide further s~reny~h to that layer. The free-standiny rib~s) provides tamper-resistance in that the rih~s) prevents downward pressure or squeezing on the container seal which could otherwise result in the rupture of the seal and leakage of the material held in the containec. The rib~s) additionally increase the container's strength. Since the rib(s) are free-standing, i.e. do not extend from one wall o~
the container to another. the filling of the container remains efficient in that separate compart~ents are not separate:Ly filled.
~ he tamper-resistant container of the invention can be used independently for dispensing a particular material or it can be utilized in conjunction with an electrically heated vapor dispensing appara~us. When the tamper-resistant container of the in~ention is utilized with an electrically heated vapoL dispensing apparatus, the rib(s) additionally serve ~o direct the hea~ generated by the apparatus. The rib(s) can also be provîded with a keyway at one end of the container so that when the container is u'ilized wi~h an electrically heated a~paratus, the k~yway, in conjunction with a projection in the ap~aratus. acts as a guide during insertion of the container into the apparatus and prevents the insertion of the container into the apparatus in the wrong direction.
FIGURFS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of the tamper-resistant container of this invention with the impermeable layer of the seal partly removed.
~L3~3~7 Figure 2 is a bottom view of the tamper-resistant container.
Figure 3 is a side view of the tamper-resistant container.
Figure 4 is a sectional view taken along line 4-4 of Figure 1.
Figure 5 is an end view of an embodiment of the ~amper~resistant container having a keyway.
Figure 6 is an end view of an e~bodiment of the tampee-resistant container without a keyway.
Figure 7 is a top view of the tamper-resistant container with the impermeable sealing layer partially cut-away but with the permeable sealing layer intact.
~ igure 8 illustrates the tamper-resistant container with the top impermeable layer removed being inserted into an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
Figure 9 is an end view of an embodiment of the electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus of Figure ~
through the end into which the tamper-resistant con~ainer is to be inser~ed.
-Figure 10 is a sectional view taken along line 10-10 of Figure 9 of the electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
3~
Figure 11 is a bottom view, similar to the view of Pigure 2, illustrating a plurality of free-standing ribs within the tamper-resistant container.
PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENT_OF INVENTION
The fea~ure of the present invention which provides tamper-resistant properties to an open ended container can be utilized with any cont~iner of a similar structure having a flexible closure seal without regard to the material held in the container or the method o~ dispensing the material. The tamper-resistant container of the present invention is particularly suitable, howe~er, for use in holding a v~latile material which is to be slowly diffused into the surrounding atmosphere. ~ccordingly, for simplification of discussion and without limiting the scope of the invention, the invention will be described in relation to a container useful for slow diffusion of a volatile material.
The tamper-resistant container 1 of the present invention has an open upper end surrounded by a peripheral flange 2. The interior 3 of the container 1 can be filled with any suitable air treating volatile material, such as an air deodorizer, insecticide, or the like. After the container is filled with a volatile material, the upper open end is sealed with at least one flexible layer of material. Any conventional seal known in the art can be utilized. However, the flexible seal is preferably a plural layered seal comprising an inner non-removable layer of vapor permeable material 4 and an outer removable layer of vapor impermeable material 5. When the container is ~o be used and the volatile material diffused into the sUrLOUnding atmosphere, the outer vapor impermeable layer S
~3glgi~37 is peeled away from the container's pelipheral flange 2 and removed. The non-removable inner layer ~ maintains the volatile material in the container 1 and prevents the user from contacting the ~aterial while simultaneously allowing the vapor from the material to be released into the surrounding atmosphere.
The flexible seal~ whether being a single layer or plural layers, can be attached to the peripheral flange ~ of the container 1 utilizing any conventional means, such as an adhesive, heat seal, crimping or the like.
Since the i~permeable layer of the container seal is meant to be easily removed by a consumer when the container is ~o be used, the seal is subject to being broken or tampered with by downward pressure on the seal or by the squeezing of the container and seal. In order to prevent the breaking of the container seal in this manner, a free-standing rib 6, or in the alternative a plurality of ribs 6a as shown in Figure 11, i5 or are formed as an integral part of the container. The rib or ribs may have any desired configuration consistent with the ~urpose described for them herein and could take the form of a raised logo or other design. In any case, the si2e of the rib should not take upp a significant portion of the internal volume of the interir 3 since that reduces the amount of material which can be placed therein.
The rib 6 or ribs 6a are free-standing within the walls or interior 3 of the containee and are, preferably, an integral part of the container outer wall, as best shown in FiguLes 2 and 4. The free-standing rib 6 extends upward from the container's bottom surface 7 to a level aeproxi~.ately ~3~3~
coextensive with the level of the peripheral flange 2 of the container. The top surface 8 of the rib 6 is located slightly below the bottom surface of the inner permeable sealing layer 4 so as not to in~e~fere with the attachment Ol placement of the sealing layer(s) on the container 1. While the rib 6 is substantially equal in height to the height of the container's sidewalls, the length of the rib 6 is preferably not equal to the length of the container's interior, i.e. the ribs 6 are wholely contained within the walls of container 1 without joining with the walls to form compartments within the container. The shortened length of the rib increases the container strength since it does not provide a crease line.
Further, the shortened length of the rib allows a one shot filling of the interior of the container rather than requiring multiple separate fillings of separate compartments which would be required if the rib extended the entile len~th of the container. When downward pressure is placed on the sealing layer(~) of the container or the sealing layer(s) are squeezed, the rib is contacted theLeby preventing the downward movement of the sealing layer~s) and any rupture o~ the sealing layer(s) and leakage o~ volatile material from the container is prevented.
The ratio of the height of the rib from the bottom surface of the container relative to the distance between the flange and bottom surface should be such that the sealing layer rests upon the top of the rib or ribs in response to pressure upon the sealing layer. This permits the rib or ribs to support the sealing layer(s) as described above. The above ratio is also dependent upon the degree to which interior 3 of the container is filled since filling interior 3 to a degree which does not permit the sealing layer(s) to contact the rib ~31)~7 after sealing will negate its purpose. Substantial overfilling should be avoided because it can a~low pressure to be placed upon the sealing layer without contact with the rib and thus caises the possibility that the sealin~ l,ayer(s) can rupture during handling.
When a plurality of ribs are utilized, the ribs can ex~end either lengthwiseO as shown in Figure 11, or across the width of the container. Preferably, however, as with a single rib, the ribs do not extend from wall to wall in the interior of the containec and thus do not foLm compartments in the container. The sa~e advantages as described above Wittl respect to a single rib also apply with respect to utilizîng a plurality of ~ibs.
The materials utilized for making ~he container and sealing layer~s) are dependent on the material being held in and dispensed from the container. The container is preferably formed utilizing a thermoformed plastic. This provides for the ea~y molding and incorporation of the rib or ribs into the container structure. A closure seal utilizing both a permeable and impermeable sealing layer as well as the material for the container itself can be of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,145,001.
A specific example of a volatile material suitable for dispensing from the tamper-resistant container of the present invention is a terpene-based fragrance. A suitable seal f or the container for use with the fragrance utilizes a low density polyethylene as the permeable non-remova'ble inner permeable layer and a coated aluminum foil as the impermeable outer removable layer. A semipermeable layer as well as a ,~. ;,S"
~3~3~7 micrvporous layer can be employed as the permeable layer.
wide variety of acceptable combinatîons depending on the volatile material used are known to those slcilled in the art as can be seen rom, for example, an examination of U.S. Pat.
No. 4,055,672 to Hirsch et al. and U.S. Pat~ No. 4,145,001 to Weyenberg et al.
The tamper-resistant container of the present invention can be utilized independently in any conventional manner of utilizing an open ended container having a flexible seal. ~s stated above, a preferred use is as a slow diff7lsion air treating material containing package which is placed in an appropriate location after re~oval of the impermeable sealing layer to allow the slow difusion of ~he volatile material into the suLrounding atmosphere.
Additionally, the tamper-resistant package of the present invention is particularly suitable for use as a single use cartridge for an electrically heated vapor dis2en6ing apparatus. When utilized wi~h an electrically heated vaeor dispensing aeparatus, ~he tamper-resistant container is maae in the shape of a cartridge which complemen~s the interior structure of the electrically heated apparatus. One example of such an electrically heated apparatus i5 shown in Figures 8-10. The apparatus 9 comprises a body 10 having a slot 11 extending through the body in which the tamper-resis~ant container 1 is insertable. The body 10 of apparatus 9 is ~referably ~hermoformed and has as an integral part thereof a heating element (not shown) and an electrical plug 12 which is to be inserted into an electric outlet during use of the aeparatus .
~3~g~3~
When the heating apparatus ls to be utilized to generate a ~apor, the impermeable seal of the volatile material holding container is removed and the container 1 inserted into slot 11 of apparatus 9. Ridges ~9 are formed as an integral part of body 10. Tha peripheral flange ~ of container 1 slides along the top of ridges 19 and are supported thereby when the container 1 is in place. The ends 20 of ~idges 19 are preferably rounded to aid insertion of co~ainer 1. Upper ridges 19' are also provided to guide the flange 2 and container 1 into apparatus 9. ~fter the container is inserted into apparatus 9, the electrical plug 12 of heating apparatus 9 is inserted into an electric outlet. The interior of the apparatus is heated thereby causing the material contained in the tamper-rasistant contai~er to be heated and diffused into the surrounding atmosphere through the permeable inner sealing layer 4 of the container 1 and the openings 13 in the outer wall of body 10 of the electrically heated apparatus.
Various modifications can be made to the tamper-resistant container. Yor example, when the containeL is utilized either independently or with an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus, one end of the peripheral flange surrounding the open end of the container can be extended in length. The extended portion 14 provides a gripping or holding area for the user. This ~urther aids in ~reventing the rupture of the container's flexible seal by providing an alternate place for holding the container. When utilized with an electrically heated apparatus, the extended portion 14 provides an area to hold during the insertion of the container 1 into the heating apparatus 9. The extended portion 14 can additionally have a projection or projections 15 protruding from at least one surface of the extended portion 14 in any 3~7 form, such as lines, bulbs, the name or logo of the seller in raised outline, or the like, which provide for better gripping of the extended portion of ~he flange. The projection or ~rojections are preferably on the underside of the extended portion if a fingerhold area is desired. Projections 15~ on the extended portion 14 are present if no other projections are present on the upper surface o~ the extended portion 14. The projections 15' serve to separate the laminate of layers ~ and 5 ~rom extended portion 14 so that the user can more easily grasp the end of the laminate and remove impermeable layer S
prior to use.
When the tamper-resistant container is utilized as a container or cartridge for insertion into an electrically heated va~or dispensing a2paratus, the cartridge can have as an integral ~art of the container walls a keyway 16 which is utilized in connection with a projection 18 in the form of an upraised knob or bar in the interior of the electrically heated apparatus 9. The keyway 16 is fo~med in the bottom surface wall 7 of the container 1 in the end of ~he container which is to be inserted first into the electrically heated apparatus.
The keyway 16 comprises a raised area in the container end wall, such as shown in Figures 2, 4, and 5, which allows the cartridge to ride over the projection 18 contained on the inner bottom surface of the electrically heated apparatus 9. If a bar 18, such as shown in Figure 10, is utilized rather than a knob, the bar only extends partway into the interior of the apparatus since the keyway lS and rib 6 of the container do not extend the total length of the container. Once the bar 1~
meets the bottom wall of the container, the forward motion of the container will be stopped. Whenever the cartridge is inserted keyway-containing end first, the projection acts as a guide for the cartridge. However, when the cartridge is inserted non-keyway containing end first, the erojection will strike the solid end wall of the container and block the insertion of the container into the apparatus. The use of the keyway and projection therefore ensures that the cartridge is inserted into the apparatus in the proper position enabling placement of the cartridge in the most advantageous position in relation to the heating element in the apparatus 9.
Additionally, eroper placement ensures easy removal of the cartridge from apparatus 9.
To further aid the proper insertion of the tamper-resistant container as a cartridge into an electrically heated apparatus, an arrow can be formed or imprinted in one end of the container's flexible seal, as illustrated for example in Figure 8, to show the proper direc~ion of insertion.
Additionally to aid in removal of the container from a heated apparatus, the container's shape can be formed to complement the a~paratus structure. For example, the container can have its end corners cut at an appropriate angle 21 or other shape to complement the electrically heated apparatus structure. When the container 1 has an angled end 2~, such as shown in Figure 8, the forward end of the container will project slight~y fro~ the opposite end 22 of the electrically heated apparatus 9 thereby providing a portion of the container which can be used by the consumer to push the container 1 outward from the electrically heated apparatus 9 when the container is to be removed from the apparatus 9. When the container is pushed outward, the extended portion 14 is easily gripped by the user and the container pulled out of the apparatus 9 without having to contact the portion of the container which held the volatile material.
13a~ 37 A tamper-lesistant container of the ty~e illustrated in Figure 1 wa~ construc~ed for use in an e:lectrically heated apparatus of the type illustrated in Figures 8-10~ ~
multilayer laminate of the ty2e described in U.S. Pat. No.
4,145,001 was employed as the sealing layer using aluminum foil as the i~ermeable layer adhesively lamina~ed to a coex~rusion of a transparent low density polyethylene per~eable layer and a polypropylene release layer, the la~ter to permit removal of the impermeable layer/relaase layer from the polyethylene permeable layer. The container was a thermoformed laminate of a thermoplastic acrylonitrile copolymer impermeable oute~ layer and an ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer inner layer separated by a nylon tie layer to pelmit the polyethylene layer to be heat-~ealed to the e~hylene~vinyl acet~te copolymer. The sealing layer is heat-sealed to the container using a hot die 60 that a chevrQn-shaped fron~ edge 40 is formed along which the remainder of the laminate, including the impermeable layer 5 a~d a small portion of the permeable layer designated 4' in the drawing~, is separated from the permeable layer 4 which retains the volatile material within the container.
The interior 3 ~ the thermoformed container was nominally 1.5 inches long ~y 1.06 inches wide and the overall height of the container from the bottom ~urface 7 of the ~ontainer ~o the top sur~ce of the flange was nominally 0.300 inches. The flat surface of rib 6 was 0.75 inches in it~
longest dimension and ta~ered outward toward the container bo~tom at a 15 an~le. The top su~face of rib 6 was nominally 0.020 inches below ~he upper surface of the flange of the 03~7 container. At i~s apex, keyway 16 was 0.090 inches from the bottom surface 7 of the container. The in~erior volume of the container was abou~ 6 cubic centimeters and the container was filled with about 5 grams ~out of about a 6 gram fill capacity) with a thixotropic gelled terpene based fragrance. The sealing layer rested upon the top of the rib 6 in response ~o finger pressure on the center of the cartridge. In this ca~e, the ratio of the height of the rib to the distance between the flange and the bottom of the container was ~0.3 - 0.02)t0.3 or O.g33:1.
As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, various modifications can be made within the scope of the aforesaid description. Such modifications being within the ability of one skilled in the ar~ form part of the present invention and are emb~aced by the appended claims.
J-1~7~
PATE~TS
A TAMPER-RESISTANT CONTAINE~
UTILIZING A FLEXIB~E SEAL
The present invention is directed to a tamper-resistant container utilizing a f lexible seal particularly suited for holding a volatile material to be dispensed by slow diffusion. More particularly, the tamper-resistant container utilizes one or more free-standing ribs to prevent the container's flexible seal from being ruptured. The tamper-resistant container i8 suitable for independent use or for use with an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
~3~91)37 BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
The prioL art aiscloses open-ended containers f or holding a volatile material which utilizes a plurality of layers to seal the container. Generally, one layer of material is permeable and pe~manently secured to ~he open end of the container and a second layer of material is impermeable and removable for when the container is utilized to dispense the volatile material. Thus. U.S. Patent No. 4,157,787 discloses an air freshene~ dispenser having a container with an opening at its u~per end surrounded by a peripheral flange. The open upper end of the container is covered with a porous layer secured to the upper surface of the flange and a re~ovable nonporous la~er which is ~emo~ably secured to the upper surface of the porou~ la~er. U.S. Paten~ No. 4,145.001 discloses a package utilizing a multi-layer sealing laminate. The innsr layer is permeable to a volatile material held within the package and the outer layer is i~permeable. The outer layer is removed to expose the inner layer when the package is ~o be used.
The prior art also discloses containers useful for variou~ puræose~ which have one or more upwardly directed pro-jec~ions in the base of the container. The pro jections, however. are not used in con3unction with a container seal.
Thus, U.S. Design Patent No. 135,588 discloses a ration container comprising a tray with upstanding sidewalls having a ridge extending upward from the bottom surface of the tray to a level just below the upper edge of the tray sidewalls. U.S.
Patent No. 2,422,814 discloses a sta~p pad having a bottom container divided into a plurality of ink containing reser-voirs. The reservoirs are separated by upstanding ridges. An ~3~ 3~
absorbent pad extends across the top of the reservoirs. When ink is to be absorbed into the pad from the reservoirs, the pad is pressed downward until it contacts the reservoirs between the rîdges. U.S. Patent No. 3,221,971 discloses a 2ackaging tray having a plurality of upwardly curving fingers around the edge of ~he tray and a rib means provided on the bottom of the tray. The rib means is disclosed as ~acilitating the placement of articles in the tray and en~uring that the articles remain properly eositioned during transportation. While the packaging tray is disclosed for use with an overwrap, the rib does not extend upward above the articles held in ~he tray. U.S. Patent No. 3,466.424 discloses a metallic cartridge for holding an eva~oratable material. The cartridge has an opening in the central upper region of the cartridge. The cartridge additionally has a sligh~ly raised portion in the bottom surface of the cartridge which reduces the amount of evaporatable material which can be d;sposed directly underneath the vaeor exit port, provides for a hotter region in the area of the exit po~t, and prevents clogging of the openings in the exit port during va~or deposition.
Various containers are also disclosed in the prior art which u~ilize ribs and a con~ainer seal. However. ~he ribs and seal are not disclosed as operating in conjunction with each other. The ribs are solely related ~o the bottom s~ructure of the containers and are utilized to provide strength, drainage or the like. For example, U.S. Patent No. 4.055,S72 discloses a package providing for a contLolled atmospheric condition through the use of permeable and impermeable films and a package bottom wall containing downwardly extending grooves.
The grooves provide a collection point for any fluid discharged from the material held within the package and also serve to enhance air circulation within the package once the outer impermeable layer i~ peeled away from the inner Rermeable layer.
The pLior art also discloses ~arious structures for electrically heated vapor dispensing ap~aratus which utilize containers or cartridges which are inserted into the a~paratus and which hold a,volatile ma~erial to be dispensed. ThUso U.S.
Patent No. 4,571,485 discloses an electrically heated aromatic generato~ utilizing a reelaceable aroma cube which is insectable into a well in the generator. The cube is an opan-ended chimney struc~ure having a shallow box supported therein at its lower end by means of spider ribs which extend between the cube walls. A porous pad having good wicking ~roeerties is held within the box and is impregnated with a volatile aromatic liquid. The pad is covered with a wire or pla~tic net which is secured to the box to retain the ~ad therein. A ~eel-off cover can be placed over the net to erevent vola~ili2ation of the liquid during prolonged storage of the cube. U.S. Patent Mo.
,4,3~3,377 discloses a hot air hand dryer having a housing which includes a perforated container or cue for holding a vaporizable deodori2ing material. The container or cup is screwed or snapped in place to the air dryer. The daodorizing material is in the ~orm of a stick or cake wh;ch is placed in the con~ainer or cup through a slot in ~he container. U.S.
Patent No. 3,990,R48 discloses a battery operated vapor ; dispensing de~ice utilizin~ a cartridge fo'r holding a vaporizable material. The cartridge inc'ludes a container having a number of holes in its top, bottom, and sides to facilitate the flo~ of air around a solid cylindrical block of va~orizable material which is held wi~hin the container. U.S.
Patent No. 4.629,604 discloses an aroma cartridge elayer ~3~g~;~7 --s--wherein each cartridge holds a plurali~y of fLagrances. The caLtridge has a rec~angular ~ulti-sectione~l ~ea~ework. The cartridge is in~erted into the cartridge p]ayer which utilizes heat to vaporize the volatile aromatic materials.
The prior art does not disclose the use of one or more free-standing ribs in conjunction with a flexible container seal to ~rovide a tamper-resista~t con~ainer. Further, the art does not disclose the use of such a container in combination with an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
A primary object of the present in~ention is to provide a container having a flexible seal and one or more free-standing ribs which is tamper-resistant.
~ further primary object o~ the present invention is to erovide a tamper-resistant container having a flexible seal and one or more free-standing ribs which i8 suitable for holding and dispensing a volatile material.
A further primary object of the present invention is to erovide a tamper-resistant container ~or holding a volatile material haYing a flexible seal and one or more free-standing ribs which is suitable for use with an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF I~VENTION
The tamper-resistant container of the present invention is preferably a thermoformed plastic container. More particularly, the plastic container is a tray-like structure ~3~ 37 having an open upper end surrounded by a peripheral flange.
The container can be filled with any desired material, but is particularly suited for holding and dispensing a volatile material. After the container is filled with a material, the open end of the container is sealed with a flexible seal. When the container is used to hold and dispense a volatile material, the seal preferably is multi-layered. The multi-layered seal has an inner non-removable layer of vapor permeable material and an outer removable layer of vapor impermeable material.
Whe~ the ~olatile material is to be dispensed fro~ the con~ainer, the outer vapor impermeable layer is peeled back from the container leaving the inner vapor permeable layer.
The inne~ layer maintains the volatile material inside the container and prevents the user of the container from contacting the material while simultaneously allowing the vapor from the material to be released into the surrounding atmosphere.
The tamæer-resistant feature of the package is in the form of a free-standing rib, or in the alternative a plurality of ribs, which are positioned within the container's walls, and which are integral with and extend upward from the container's bottom surface. Whether a single rib or a plurality of ribs are utili2ed, the rib or ribs do not extend from wall-to-wall in the interior of the container so that the rib or ribs do not divide the container into compartments. The rib(s) extend upward from the container's bottom surface to a level aeproximately coextensive with the peripheral flange surrounding the upper end of the container. The height of the rib(s) is such that it does not interfere with the attachment or placement of the container's seal. The rib(s) may also be a-t the same height as the flange and. less preferably, the ~3~37 bottom of the sealing layer may be adhered to the top of the rib to provide further s~reny~h to that layer. The free-standiny rib~s) provides tamper-resistance in that the rih~s) prevents downward pressure or squeezing on the container seal which could otherwise result in the rupture of the seal and leakage of the material held in the containec. The rib~s) additionally increase the container's strength. Since the rib(s) are free-standing, i.e. do not extend from one wall o~
the container to another. the filling of the container remains efficient in that separate compart~ents are not separate:Ly filled.
~ he tamper-resistant container of the invention can be used independently for dispensing a particular material or it can be utilized in conjunction with an electrically heated vapor dispensing appara~us. When the tamper-resistant container of the in~ention is utilized with an electrically heated vapoL dispensing apparatus, the rib(s) additionally serve ~o direct the hea~ generated by the apparatus. The rib(s) can also be provîded with a keyway at one end of the container so that when the container is u'ilized wi~h an electrically heated a~paratus, the k~yway, in conjunction with a projection in the ap~aratus. acts as a guide during insertion of the container into the apparatus and prevents the insertion of the container into the apparatus in the wrong direction.
FIGURFS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of the tamper-resistant container of this invention with the impermeable layer of the seal partly removed.
~L3~3~7 Figure 2 is a bottom view of the tamper-resistant container.
Figure 3 is a side view of the tamper-resistant container.
Figure 4 is a sectional view taken along line 4-4 of Figure 1.
Figure 5 is an end view of an embodiment of the ~amper~resistant container having a keyway.
Figure 6 is an end view of an e~bodiment of the tampee-resistant container without a keyway.
Figure 7 is a top view of the tamper-resistant container with the impermeable sealing layer partially cut-away but with the permeable sealing layer intact.
~ igure 8 illustrates the tamper-resistant container with the top impermeable layer removed being inserted into an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
Figure 9 is an end view of an embodiment of the electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus of Figure ~
through the end into which the tamper-resistant con~ainer is to be inser~ed.
-Figure 10 is a sectional view taken along line 10-10 of Figure 9 of the electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus.
3~
Figure 11 is a bottom view, similar to the view of Pigure 2, illustrating a plurality of free-standing ribs within the tamper-resistant container.
PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENT_OF INVENTION
The fea~ure of the present invention which provides tamper-resistant properties to an open ended container can be utilized with any cont~iner of a similar structure having a flexible closure seal without regard to the material held in the container or the method o~ dispensing the material. The tamper-resistant container of the present invention is particularly suitable, howe~er, for use in holding a v~latile material which is to be slowly diffused into the surrounding atmosphere. ~ccordingly, for simplification of discussion and without limiting the scope of the invention, the invention will be described in relation to a container useful for slow diffusion of a volatile material.
The tamper-resistant container 1 of the present invention has an open upper end surrounded by a peripheral flange 2. The interior 3 of the container 1 can be filled with any suitable air treating volatile material, such as an air deodorizer, insecticide, or the like. After the container is filled with a volatile material, the upper open end is sealed with at least one flexible layer of material. Any conventional seal known in the art can be utilized. However, the flexible seal is preferably a plural layered seal comprising an inner non-removable layer of vapor permeable material 4 and an outer removable layer of vapor impermeable material 5. When the container is ~o be used and the volatile material diffused into the sUrLOUnding atmosphere, the outer vapor impermeable layer S
~3glgi~37 is peeled away from the container's pelipheral flange 2 and removed. The non-removable inner layer ~ maintains the volatile material in the container 1 and prevents the user from contacting the ~aterial while simultaneously allowing the vapor from the material to be released into the surrounding atmosphere.
The flexible seal~ whether being a single layer or plural layers, can be attached to the peripheral flange ~ of the container 1 utilizing any conventional means, such as an adhesive, heat seal, crimping or the like.
Since the i~permeable layer of the container seal is meant to be easily removed by a consumer when the container is ~o be used, the seal is subject to being broken or tampered with by downward pressure on the seal or by the squeezing of the container and seal. In order to prevent the breaking of the container seal in this manner, a free-standing rib 6, or in the alternative a plurality of ribs 6a as shown in Figure 11, i5 or are formed as an integral part of the container. The rib or ribs may have any desired configuration consistent with the ~urpose described for them herein and could take the form of a raised logo or other design. In any case, the si2e of the rib should not take upp a significant portion of the internal volume of the interir 3 since that reduces the amount of material which can be placed therein.
The rib 6 or ribs 6a are free-standing within the walls or interior 3 of the containee and are, preferably, an integral part of the container outer wall, as best shown in FiguLes 2 and 4. The free-standing rib 6 extends upward from the container's bottom surface 7 to a level aeproxi~.ately ~3~3~
coextensive with the level of the peripheral flange 2 of the container. The top surface 8 of the rib 6 is located slightly below the bottom surface of the inner permeable sealing layer 4 so as not to in~e~fere with the attachment Ol placement of the sealing layer(s) on the container 1. While the rib 6 is substantially equal in height to the height of the container's sidewalls, the length of the rib 6 is preferably not equal to the length of the container's interior, i.e. the ribs 6 are wholely contained within the walls of container 1 without joining with the walls to form compartments within the container. The shortened length of the rib increases the container strength since it does not provide a crease line.
Further, the shortened length of the rib allows a one shot filling of the interior of the container rather than requiring multiple separate fillings of separate compartments which would be required if the rib extended the entile len~th of the container. When downward pressure is placed on the sealing layer(~) of the container or the sealing layer(s) are squeezed, the rib is contacted theLeby preventing the downward movement of the sealing layer~s) and any rupture o~ the sealing layer(s) and leakage o~ volatile material from the container is prevented.
The ratio of the height of the rib from the bottom surface of the container relative to the distance between the flange and bottom surface should be such that the sealing layer rests upon the top of the rib or ribs in response to pressure upon the sealing layer. This permits the rib or ribs to support the sealing layer(s) as described above. The above ratio is also dependent upon the degree to which interior 3 of the container is filled since filling interior 3 to a degree which does not permit the sealing layer(s) to contact the rib ~31)~7 after sealing will negate its purpose. Substantial overfilling should be avoided because it can a~low pressure to be placed upon the sealing layer without contact with the rib and thus caises the possibility that the sealin~ l,ayer(s) can rupture during handling.
When a plurality of ribs are utilized, the ribs can ex~end either lengthwiseO as shown in Figure 11, or across the width of the container. Preferably, however, as with a single rib, the ribs do not extend from wall to wall in the interior of the containec and thus do not foLm compartments in the container. The sa~e advantages as described above Wittl respect to a single rib also apply with respect to utilizîng a plurality of ~ibs.
The materials utilized for making ~he container and sealing layer~s) are dependent on the material being held in and dispensed from the container. The container is preferably formed utilizing a thermoformed plastic. This provides for the ea~y molding and incorporation of the rib or ribs into the container structure. A closure seal utilizing both a permeable and impermeable sealing layer as well as the material for the container itself can be of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,145,001.
A specific example of a volatile material suitable for dispensing from the tamper-resistant container of the present invention is a terpene-based fragrance. A suitable seal f or the container for use with the fragrance utilizes a low density polyethylene as the permeable non-remova'ble inner permeable layer and a coated aluminum foil as the impermeable outer removable layer. A semipermeable layer as well as a ,~. ;,S"
~3~3~7 micrvporous layer can be employed as the permeable layer.
wide variety of acceptable combinatîons depending on the volatile material used are known to those slcilled in the art as can be seen rom, for example, an examination of U.S. Pat.
No. 4,055,672 to Hirsch et al. and U.S. Pat~ No. 4,145,001 to Weyenberg et al.
The tamper-resistant container of the present invention can be utilized independently in any conventional manner of utilizing an open ended container having a flexible seal. ~s stated above, a preferred use is as a slow diff7lsion air treating material containing package which is placed in an appropriate location after re~oval of the impermeable sealing layer to allow the slow difusion of ~he volatile material into the suLrounding atmosphere.
Additionally, the tamper-resistant package of the present invention is particularly suitable for use as a single use cartridge for an electrically heated vapor dis2en6ing apparatus. When utilized wi~h an electrically heated vaeor dispensing aeparatus, ~he tamper-resistant container is maae in the shape of a cartridge which complemen~s the interior structure of the electrically heated apparatus. One example of such an electrically heated apparatus i5 shown in Figures 8-10. The apparatus 9 comprises a body 10 having a slot 11 extending through the body in which the tamper-resis~ant container 1 is insertable. The body 10 of apparatus 9 is ~referably ~hermoformed and has as an integral part thereof a heating element (not shown) and an electrical plug 12 which is to be inserted into an electric outlet during use of the aeparatus .
~3~g~3~
When the heating apparatus ls to be utilized to generate a ~apor, the impermeable seal of the volatile material holding container is removed and the container 1 inserted into slot 11 of apparatus 9. Ridges ~9 are formed as an integral part of body 10. Tha peripheral flange ~ of container 1 slides along the top of ridges 19 and are supported thereby when the container 1 is in place. The ends 20 of ~idges 19 are preferably rounded to aid insertion of co~ainer 1. Upper ridges 19' are also provided to guide the flange 2 and container 1 into apparatus 9. ~fter the container is inserted into apparatus 9, the electrical plug 12 of heating apparatus 9 is inserted into an electric outlet. The interior of the apparatus is heated thereby causing the material contained in the tamper-rasistant contai~er to be heated and diffused into the surrounding atmosphere through the permeable inner sealing layer 4 of the container 1 and the openings 13 in the outer wall of body 10 of the electrically heated apparatus.
Various modifications can be made to the tamper-resistant container. Yor example, when the containeL is utilized either independently or with an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus, one end of the peripheral flange surrounding the open end of the container can be extended in length. The extended portion 14 provides a gripping or holding area for the user. This ~urther aids in ~reventing the rupture of the container's flexible seal by providing an alternate place for holding the container. When utilized with an electrically heated apparatus, the extended portion 14 provides an area to hold during the insertion of the container 1 into the heating apparatus 9. The extended portion 14 can additionally have a projection or projections 15 protruding from at least one surface of the extended portion 14 in any 3~7 form, such as lines, bulbs, the name or logo of the seller in raised outline, or the like, which provide for better gripping of the extended portion of ~he flange. The projection or ~rojections are preferably on the underside of the extended portion if a fingerhold area is desired. Projections 15~ on the extended portion 14 are present if no other projections are present on the upper surface o~ the extended portion 14. The projections 15' serve to separate the laminate of layers ~ and 5 ~rom extended portion 14 so that the user can more easily grasp the end of the laminate and remove impermeable layer S
prior to use.
When the tamper-resistant container is utilized as a container or cartridge for insertion into an electrically heated va~or dispensing a2paratus, the cartridge can have as an integral ~art of the container walls a keyway 16 which is utilized in connection with a projection 18 in the form of an upraised knob or bar in the interior of the electrically heated apparatus 9. The keyway 16 is fo~med in the bottom surface wall 7 of the container 1 in the end of ~he container which is to be inserted first into the electrically heated apparatus.
The keyway 16 comprises a raised area in the container end wall, such as shown in Figures 2, 4, and 5, which allows the cartridge to ride over the projection 18 contained on the inner bottom surface of the electrically heated apparatus 9. If a bar 18, such as shown in Figure 10, is utilized rather than a knob, the bar only extends partway into the interior of the apparatus since the keyway lS and rib 6 of the container do not extend the total length of the container. Once the bar 1~
meets the bottom wall of the container, the forward motion of the container will be stopped. Whenever the cartridge is inserted keyway-containing end first, the projection acts as a guide for the cartridge. However, when the cartridge is inserted non-keyway containing end first, the erojection will strike the solid end wall of the container and block the insertion of the container into the apparatus. The use of the keyway and projection therefore ensures that the cartridge is inserted into the apparatus in the proper position enabling placement of the cartridge in the most advantageous position in relation to the heating element in the apparatus 9.
Additionally, eroper placement ensures easy removal of the cartridge from apparatus 9.
To further aid the proper insertion of the tamper-resistant container as a cartridge into an electrically heated apparatus, an arrow can be formed or imprinted in one end of the container's flexible seal, as illustrated for example in Figure 8, to show the proper direc~ion of insertion.
Additionally to aid in removal of the container from a heated apparatus, the container's shape can be formed to complement the a~paratus structure. For example, the container can have its end corners cut at an appropriate angle 21 or other shape to complement the electrically heated apparatus structure. When the container 1 has an angled end 2~, such as shown in Figure 8, the forward end of the container will project slight~y fro~ the opposite end 22 of the electrically heated apparatus 9 thereby providing a portion of the container which can be used by the consumer to push the container 1 outward from the electrically heated apparatus 9 when the container is to be removed from the apparatus 9. When the container is pushed outward, the extended portion 14 is easily gripped by the user and the container pulled out of the apparatus 9 without having to contact the portion of the container which held the volatile material.
13a~ 37 A tamper-lesistant container of the ty~e illustrated in Figure 1 wa~ construc~ed for use in an e:lectrically heated apparatus of the type illustrated in Figures 8-10~ ~
multilayer laminate of the ty2e described in U.S. Pat. No.
4,145,001 was employed as the sealing layer using aluminum foil as the i~ermeable layer adhesively lamina~ed to a coex~rusion of a transparent low density polyethylene per~eable layer and a polypropylene release layer, the la~ter to permit removal of the impermeable layer/relaase layer from the polyethylene permeable layer. The container was a thermoformed laminate of a thermoplastic acrylonitrile copolymer impermeable oute~ layer and an ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer inner layer separated by a nylon tie layer to pelmit the polyethylene layer to be heat-~ealed to the e~hylene~vinyl acet~te copolymer. The sealing layer is heat-sealed to the container using a hot die 60 that a chevrQn-shaped fron~ edge 40 is formed along which the remainder of the laminate, including the impermeable layer 5 a~d a small portion of the permeable layer designated 4' in the drawing~, is separated from the permeable layer 4 which retains the volatile material within the container.
The interior 3 ~ the thermoformed container was nominally 1.5 inches long ~y 1.06 inches wide and the overall height of the container from the bottom ~urface 7 of the ~ontainer ~o the top sur~ce of the flange was nominally 0.300 inches. The flat surface of rib 6 was 0.75 inches in it~
longest dimension and ta~ered outward toward the container bo~tom at a 15 an~le. The top su~face of rib 6 was nominally 0.020 inches below ~he upper surface of the flange of the 03~7 container. At i~s apex, keyway 16 was 0.090 inches from the bottom surface 7 of the container. The in~erior volume of the container was abou~ 6 cubic centimeters and the container was filled with about 5 grams ~out of about a 6 gram fill capacity) with a thixotropic gelled terpene based fragrance. The sealing layer rested upon the top of the rib 6 in response ~o finger pressure on the center of the cartridge. In this ca~e, the ratio of the height of the rib to the distance between the flange and the bottom of the container was ~0.3 - 0.02)t0.3 or O.g33:1.
As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, various modifications can be made within the scope of the aforesaid description. Such modifications being within the ability of one skilled in the ar~ form part of the present invention and are emb~aced by the appended claims.
Claims (17)
1. A tamper-resistant volatile material dispenser comprising an open-ended container having a peripheral flange surrounding an open end having a bottom surface and side walls, with at least one sealing layer attached to the top surface of said peripheral flange to form an interior region wherein at least one sealing layer is permeable to a volatile material enclosed within said interior region, and having at least one free-standing rib extending upward from the bottom surface of said container within said interior region to a level approximately coextensive with said peripheral flange, said container being impermeable to said volatile material.
2. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein said container has only one free-standing rib and said free-standing rib is contained within the walls of said container but not joined with said walls so as not to form separate compartments within said container.
3. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein said container has a plurality of said free-standing ribs and said free-standing ribs are contained within the walls of said container but not joined with said walls so as not to form separate compartments within said container.
4. A dispenser according to claim 1 having a keyway formed in one end only of said container.
5. A dispenser as claimed in claim 4 having a keyway formed in said bottom surface and being in contact with said rib.
6. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein said peripheral flange at one end of said container is extended in length.
7. A dispenser according to claim 6 wherein said extended portion of said peripheral flange has at least one projection protruding from at least one surface of said extended portion.
8. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein said sealing layer is multi-layered and further contains a removable layer which is impermeable to said volatile material .
9. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein the ratio of the height of the rib to the distance between the upper surface of the flange and the bottom surface ofthe container opposite the open end is such that said sealing layer rests upon said rib in response to pressure upon the sealing layer, the amount of volatile material present therein being such to permit such contact with said rib.
10. In combination, a tamper-resistant volatile material dispenser comprising an open-ended container having a peripheral flange surrounding an open end having a bottom surface and side walls, with at least one sealing layer attached to the top surface of said peripheral flange to form an interior region wherein at least one sealing layer is permeable to a volatile material enclosed within said interior region, and having at least one free-standing rib extending upward from the bottom surface of said container within said interior region to a level approximately coextensive with said peripheral flange, said container being impermeable to said volatile material: and an electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus constructed and arranged to receive said open-ended container and whereby said apparatus heats said volatile material contained in said container causing said volatile material to diffuse into the surrounding atmosphere.
11. A combination according to claim 10 wherein said container has only one free-standing rib and said free-standing rib is contained within the walls of said container but not joined with said walls so as not to form separate compartments within said container.
12. A combination according to claim 10 wherein said container has a plurality of said free-standing ribs and said free-standing ribs are contained within the walls of said container but not joined with said walls so as not to form separate compartments within said container.
13. A combination according to claim 10 wherein said container has a keyway formed in one end only of said container and said electrically heated vapor dispensing apparatus has a projection extending upward from the inner bottom surface of said apparatus which in conjunction with said keyway blocks said container from being inserted into said apparatus when said container is not inserted keyway containing end first.
14. A combination according to claim 10 wherein said peripheral flange at one end of said container is extended in length.
15. A combination according to claim 14 wherein said extended portion of said peripheral flange has at least one projection protruding from at least one surface of said extended portion.
16. A combination according to claim 10 wherein said sealing layer is multi-layered and further contains a removable layer which is impermeable to said volatile material .
17. A combination according to claim 10 wherein the ratio of the height of the rib to the distance between the upper surface of the flange and the bottom surface ofthe container opposite the open end is such that said sealing layer rests upon said rib in response to pressure upon the sealing layer, the amount of volatile material present therein being such to permit such contact with said rib.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US07/137,296 | 1987-12-23 | ||
| US07/137,296 US4849606A (en) | 1987-12-23 | 1987-12-23 | Tamper-resistant container utilizing a flexible seal |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1309037C true CA1309037C (en) | 1992-10-20 |
Family
ID=22476713
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000579838A Expired - Lifetime CA1309037C (en) | 1987-12-23 | 1988-10-07 | Tamper-resistant container utilizing a flexible seal |
Country Status (14)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US4849606A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0321729B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH01280463A (en) |
| AR (1) | AR244168A1 (en) |
| AT (1) | ATE73094T1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU627161B2 (en) |
| BR (1) | BR8806810A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1309037C (en) |
| DE (1) | DE3868891D1 (en) |
| ES (1) | ES2029872T3 (en) |
| MX (1) | MX167720B (en) |
| NZ (1) | NZ227165A (en) |
| PT (1) | PT89283B (en) |
| ZA (1) | ZA889607B (en) |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4849606A (en) * | 1987-12-23 | 1989-07-18 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Tamper-resistant container utilizing a flexible seal |
| US5111477A (en) * | 1990-05-07 | 1992-05-05 | Technical Concepts, L.P. | Fragrance diffuser |
| US5136684A (en) * | 1991-10-02 | 1992-08-04 | Certified Chemicals, Inc. | Heating device for volatilization of fragrant gel |
| US5262127A (en) * | 1992-02-12 | 1993-11-16 | The Regents Of The University Of Michigan | Solid state chemical micro-reservoirs |
| US5233680A (en) * | 1992-09-29 | 1993-08-03 | Ornamotor, Inc. | Wreath-shaped electrically activated aromatic ornament |
| DE4236886C2 (en) * | 1992-10-31 | 1997-11-20 | Klocke Verpackungs Service | Containers for aromatic substances |
| US5521357A (en) * | 1992-11-17 | 1996-05-28 | Heaters Engineering, Inc. | Heating device for a volatile material with resistive film formed on a substrate and overmolded body |
| US5379917A (en) | 1993-03-01 | 1995-01-10 | Fresh Products, Inc. | Dual soap and fragrance dispenser |
| GB2275608B (en) * | 1993-03-02 | 1997-04-02 | Johnson & Son Inc S C | A tamper-resistant electrically heated vapour dispensing apparatus |
| GB2275609B (en) * | 1993-03-02 | 1997-04-02 | Johnson & Son Inc S C | A tamper resistant electrically heated vapour dispensing apparatus |
| US5439100A (en) * | 1993-05-04 | 1995-08-08 | The Dial Corp. | Packaging system for dispensing cartridge for volatiles |
| US5407642A (en) * | 1993-06-14 | 1995-04-18 | Lord; Paul J. | Clip mount air freshener assembly |
| US5358147A (en) * | 1993-09-02 | 1994-10-25 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Spray dispensing package |
| FR2710495B1 (en) † | 1993-09-28 | 1995-10-27 | Celaflor Gmbh | Device for carrying out insecticide treatments, and their use in dwellings. |
| US5373581A (en) * | 1993-11-22 | 1994-12-13 | Smith; James S. | Automobile plug-in air freshener with rotatable switch and vaporizer |
| US5574821A (en) * | 1993-11-24 | 1996-11-12 | Babasade; Wolfgang | Plug in volatile substance dispenser and method for dispensing volatiles |
| US5431859A (en) * | 1993-12-30 | 1995-07-11 | Tobin; Jerry | Air freshener |
| US5522008A (en) * | 1994-03-16 | 1996-05-28 | Bernard; Costello J. | Device for heating and vaporizing a vaporizable module |
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| CH662736A5 (en) * | 1983-01-14 | 1987-10-30 | Firmenich & Cie | DEVICE FOR SCENTING AMBIENT AIR AND CLOSED ENCLOSURES. |
| US4629604A (en) * | 1983-03-21 | 1986-12-16 | Donald Spector | Multi-aroma cartridge player |
| DE3339832A1 (en) * | 1983-11-01 | 1985-05-09 | Reinhard 6361 Niddatal Napierski | ELECTRICAL DEVICE FOR EVAPORATING ACTIVE SUBSTANCES, IN PARTICULAR INSECTICIDES |
| FR2558697B2 (en) * | 1984-01-27 | 1990-01-05 | Seytier Andre | MEMORY DEVICE, ELSEWHERE CAPABLE OF DISPENSING A PERFUME, DEODORANT OR THE LIKE |
| US4653644A (en) * | 1984-06-18 | 1987-03-31 | Degesch Gmbh | Package for toxic fumigant material in pellet or tablet form and method of making same |
| US4583686A (en) * | 1984-08-27 | 1986-04-22 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Package for dispensing volatiles |
| US4544592A (en) * | 1984-10-01 | 1985-10-01 | Donald Spector | Aroma-generating capsule |
| US4571485A (en) * | 1984-10-25 | 1986-02-18 | Donald Spector | Cube type aroma generator |
| JPS61154566A (en) * | 1984-12-26 | 1986-07-14 | 株式会社 レナ−タ | Woody note release cartridge and air purifier equipped therewith |
| JPS6221349U (en) * | 1985-07-24 | 1987-02-09 | ||
| JPS6297647U (en) * | 1985-12-07 | 1987-06-22 | ||
| US4687904A (en) * | 1986-08-04 | 1987-08-18 | Gte Products Corporation | Electrically heated insecticide dispenser |
| US4724982A (en) * | 1986-12-18 | 1988-02-16 | Sanford Redmond | Asymmetric stress concentrator for a dispenser package |
| US4703155A (en) * | 1986-12-30 | 1987-10-27 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Electric fogger |
| US4849606A (en) * | 1987-12-23 | 1989-07-18 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Tamper-resistant container utilizing a flexible seal |
-
1987
- 1987-12-23 US US07/137,296 patent/US4849606A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1988
- 1988-10-07 CA CA000579838A patent/CA1309037C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1988-11-25 ES ES198888119702T patent/ES2029872T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1988-11-25 AT AT88119702T patent/ATE73094T1/en active
- 1988-11-25 EP EP88119702A patent/EP0321729B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1988-11-25 DE DE8888119702T patent/DE3868891D1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1988-12-01 NZ NZ227165A patent/NZ227165A/en unknown
- 1988-12-02 AU AU26499/88A patent/AU627161B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1988-12-21 PT PT89283A patent/PT89283B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1988-12-21 MX MX014276A patent/MX167720B/en unknown
- 1988-12-22 AR AR88312830A patent/AR244168A1/en active
- 1988-12-22 BR BR888806810A patent/BR8806810A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1988-12-22 ZA ZA889607A patent/ZA889607B/en unknown
- 1988-12-23 JP JP63325696A patent/JPH01280463A/en active Granted
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| ZA889607B (en) | 1989-11-29 |
| NZ227165A (en) | 1990-06-26 |
| AU2649988A (en) | 1989-06-29 |
| EP0321729A3 (en) | 1990-01-17 |
| ES2029872T3 (en) | 1992-10-01 |
| US4849606A (en) | 1989-07-18 |
| EP0321729A2 (en) | 1989-06-28 |
| JPH01280463A (en) | 1989-11-10 |
| AU627161B2 (en) | 1992-08-20 |
| JPH0414989B2 (en) | 1992-03-16 |
| MX167720B (en) | 1993-04-07 |
| PT89283A (en) | 1989-09-14 |
| EP0321729B1 (en) | 1992-03-04 |
| PT89283B (en) | 1993-12-31 |
| ATE73094T1 (en) | 1992-03-15 |
| BR8806810A (en) | 1989-08-29 |
| DE3868891D1 (en) | 1992-04-09 |
| AR244168A1 (en) | 1993-10-29 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |