WO2000075023A1

WO2000075023A1 - Canister for a particulate-type product

Info

Publication number: WO2000075023A1
Application number: PCT/US2000/016003
Authority: WO
Inventors: Patrick J. Sumpmann; Gordon H. Meier
Original assignee: General Mills, Inc.
Priority date: 1999-06-09
Filing date: 2000-06-08
Publication date: 2000-12-14
Also published as: AU5732500A; US6510981B1; US20010011678A1; US20030111522A1; US6484929B2

Abstract

A canister (10) for storing a particulate-type product (22). The canister comprises opposing face panels (12), opposing side panels (14), a bottom panel (16) and a top panel (18). The opposing side panels are integrally formed with the opposing face panels to define an upper opening and a lower opening. The bottom panel is connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the lower opening. The opposing face panels, the opposing side panels and the bottom panel combine to define an internal storage region (20). The top panel is similarly connected to the opposing face panels and side panels so as to encompass the upper opening. The top panel includes a body portion (40) and a lid (42). The lid is preferably movably secured to the body portion so as to provide selective access to the internal storage region. Finally, each of the panels are formed from a paper and plastic material configured to maintain integrity of the particulate-type product disposed therein. In one preferred embodiment, the canister is configured to store a food product, for example a ready-to-eat cereal.

Description

CANISTERFORA PARTICULATE-TYPE PRODUCT

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a canister for containing a particulate-type product. More particularly, it relates to a paper and plastic based canister for storing a particulate- type product, such as a ready-to-eat cereal, configured to satisfy consumer preferences.

An extremely popular form of packaging for dry, particulate-type products sold to consumers is a paper carton. A wide variety of different products are packaged in this form, ranging from consumable items such as cereals and baking goods to non- consumable items such as laundry detergents and de-icing salt pellets. Paper cartons present a number of advantages for manufacturers, retailers and ultimate consumers. For example, paper cartons are relatively inexpensive to manufacture and provide a number of flat surfaces onto which product or promotional information can be displayed. Further, paper cartons normally assume a rectangular, parallel-piped shape and are therefore readily stackable. Thus, a retailer can maximize shelf space while fully displaying the product. Obviously, consumers likewise find the stackability characteristic desirable for home storage. Finally, paper cartons are typically sized in accordance with consumer preferences such that a desired amount or volume of product is provided with each individual carton. Certain types of products are amenable to storage within a paper carton alone.

Generally speaking, however, a paper carton cannot, in and of itself, adequately maintain product integrity. For example, a paper carton likely will not prevent aroma, moisture, contaminants, small insects, etc. from passing through to the contained product. Thus, packaging for virtually all particulate-type products requires an additional container or liner disposed within the paper carton. This is especially true for consumable/food products. A widely accepted technique for maintaining product integrity is to place the product into an inner container or bag, that in turn is stored in the carton (commonly referred to as a "bag in a box"). The bag is typically made of a plastic or glassine material and is sealed about the product. In this sealed form, the bag maintains product freshness and protection against insect infestation, whereas the outer paper carton provides packaging strength and display. Alternatively, a double packaging machine (DPM) technique may be employed to form a plastic or glassine liner within a paper carton. Regardless of the exact manufacturing process, the resulting packaging configuration includes a box with an inner liner that serves as a barrier material. One readily available example of this packaging approach is a ready-to-eat cereal, although it should be understood that a wide variety of other products are similarly packaged. The box with an inner liner packaging approach is universally employed. In fact, from a manufacturer's standpoint, box with an inner liner packaging satisfies a number of important criteria including low cost, stackability, and large, flat surfaces for displaying product and promotional information. Unfortunately, however, consumers may encounter several potential drawbacks. These possible disadvantages are perhaps best illustrated by reference to a ready-to-eat cereal product.

Most ready-to-eat cereal products are sold to consumers with the with an inner liner box with an inner liner packaging format. Thus, to consume the cereal, the user must first open the paper carton. In this regard, a top portion of the carton typically forms at least two flaps folded on top of one another. The flaps are normally at least partially adhered to one another with an adhesive. By pulling or otherwise tearing one flap away from the other, a consumer can then access the inner bag. An all too common problem is that the selected adhesive creates too strong of a bond between the flaps, making flap separation exceedingly difficult. In fact, consumers may become frustrated with the separation process and resort to partially or completely tearing both flaps away from the carton. A related problem is found with a reclosure feature often times incorporated into the flaps. For example, one of the flaps may be provided with a tab, whereas the other flap includes a perforated slot positioned to receive the tab for reattachment of one flap to the other. Obviously, where the consumer has torn both flaps from the carton, the reclosure feature is unavailable. Additionally, the reclosure feature is sometimes difficult for a consumer to understand and properly use. For example, consumers often tear the flap in the region of the slot such that the slot can no longer maintain the tab.

Once the carton has been opened, the consumer must then open the inner bag. Once again, this may be a cumbersome procedure. More particularly, an elongated seal is typically formed and extends along a top portion of the bag. This seal is broken (or "opened") by pulling apart opposite sides of the bag. In some instances, the so-formed seal is too rigid for simple opening. Even further, a person with reduced dexterity and strength, such as a child or elderly individual, may have difficulty in breaking an even relatively light seal. As a result, attempts at opening the inner bag or liner often result in an undesirable tear along a side of the bag, causing unacceptable product displacement from the bag, or an uneven opening. The person may resort to using a knife or scissors, possibly resulting in bodily harm to the user.

Once the carton and bag or liner have been opened, the consumer is then ready to pour the contents from the package. Due to the flexible nature of the inner bag, the actual opening through which the product flows is unpredictable. That is to say, the opening formed in the bag is not uniform or fixed. As a result, a larger than expected volume of product may unexpectedly pour from the container. Alternatively, where the inner bag has not been properly opened, product flow may be too slow. Further, although the flaps will have been folded upwardly to allow for product flow, an inherent bias or bend typically causes the flaps to extend upwardly relative to a top of the carton. Thus, the flaps will^' impede a user from visually confirming acceptable product volume and flow. As a result, the user may not be able to visually identify an unacceptable product flow rate until after an undesirably large volume of product has been distributed from the package. Additionally, the inner bag typically is not secured to the carton. During a subsequent pouring operation, then, the entire bag may undesirably be released from the carton. Finally, a potential concern arises relating to the ease with which a user can handle the carton during the pouring operation. To this end, the carton is typically configured to form an elongated rectangular cylinder having four rigid, ninety-degree corners. This rigid construction can render grasping of the package difficult, especially for a user with limited hand dexterity, such as a child or elderly individual.

A further consumer concern relating to box with an inner liner with an inner liner packaging stems from attempts to reclose the package for subsequent storage of remaining product. Again with reference to widely employed ready-to-eat cereal packaging, following dispensing of a portion of the cereal from the package, the user is then required to roll or fold the top portion of the bag or liner over onto itself so as to "close" the bag. It is not uncommon for a user to simply forget to perform this operation. Alternatively, even where an attempt is made, the bag cannot be resealed and thus remains at least partially open. Similarly, the bag may subsequently unroll. Individual cereal pieces may then undesirably be released from the bag and/or contaminants can enter into the bag. Regardless, the above-described reclosure feature associated with the carton normally does not provide an effective barrier to unexpected product displacement and/or contamination due to removal, poor design, misuse, lack of use, etc. These concerns are exacerbated when attempting to store a previously-opened package on its side or when the package is accidentally dropped. In either case, because neither the carton nor the bag provides a complete closure, unanticipated release of cereal from the container may occur.

Viewed as a whole, concerns relating to standard box with an inner liner packaging present numerous opportunities for consumer dissatisfaction. Essentially, consumer preferences for improvements to particulate-type product packaging can be separated into four categories. Consumers prefer that the package be easy to open, easily and satisfactorily reclosed, facilitate consistent and easy pouring and is acceptable for "clean" use by a child or others with limited dexterity. Obviously, consumers further prefer that product costs be as low as possible, and that certain other beneficial attributes associated with the existing box with inner liner packaging continue to be implemented. These existing properties include package strength, product damage protection, use of high volume commercially available materials, visual display of product and promotional material, recycleability, stackability, and moisture, aroma, contaminant and insect protection. Certain packaging schemes are available that address, at least in part, several of the above-listed consumer preferences. Unfortunately, however, these packaging techniques entail other drawbacks, thereby limiting their usefulness. For example, rigid plastic containers having removable, sealable lids are available. The greatly increased costs associated with this packaging configuration prohibit its implementation on a mass production basis. Similarly, it may be possible to provide the inner bag with a "zip-lock" sealing feature. While this technique may alleviate several of the reclosure issues previously described, the zip-lock design is expensive and often times does not provide a complete seal.

Consumers continue to express a high demand for particulate-type products sold in a paper cartons. However, various problems associated with use of standard packaging, and in particular box with an inner liner packages, may diminish purchasing enthusiasm. In fact, any efforts to satisfy consumer preferences on a cost effective basis while maintaining the beneficial properties of current packaging, will likely result in heightened sales. Therefore, a need exists for a particulate-type product canister configured to address consumer use preferences.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention provides a canister for storing a particulate- type product. The canister includes opposing face panels, opposing side panels, a bottom panel and a top panel. The opposing side panels are integrally formed with the opposing face panels to define an upper opening and a lower opening. The bottom panel is connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the lower opening. The opposing face panels, the opposing side panels and the bottom panel combine to define an internal storage region. The top panel is similarly connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the upper opening. With this in mind, the top panel includes a body portion and a lid. The lid is movably secured to the body portion and is configured to provide selective access to the internal storage region. Finally, each of the panels are formed from a paper and plastic material configured to maintain the integrity of particulate-type product disposed within the internal storage region. In one preferred embodiment, the canister is configured to maintain a food product such as ready-to-eat cereal.

During use, a user opens the canister by moving the lid relative to the body portion. With the lid in an open position, the particulate-type product is distributed from the canister. Following distribution of a desired quantity of product, the lid is returned to a closed position, effectively resealing the canister. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a packaged good article comprising a canister and a particulate-type product. The canister includes opposing face panels, opposing side panels, a bottom panel and a top panel. The opposing side panels are integrally formed with the opposing face panels to define an upper opening and a lower opening. The bottom panel is connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the lower opening. The opposing face panels, the opposing side panels and the bottom panel combine to define an internal storage region. The top panel is connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the upper opening. The top panel includes a body portion and a lid. The lid is movably secured to the body portion such that upon final assembly, the lid is configured to provide access to the internal storage region. The particulate-type product is disposed and contained within the internal storage region. With the above combination in mind, each of the panels are formed from a paper and plastic material configured to maintain integrity of the particulate-type product disposed within the internal storage region. In one preferred embodiment, the particulate-type product is a dry, ready-to-eat cereal.

Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a canister for storing a particulate-type product. The canister includes opposing face panels, opposing side panels, a bottom panel and a top panel. The opposing side panels are integrally formed with the opposing face panels to define an upper opening, a lower opening and longitudinally extending corners. At least one of the longitudinally extending corners is arcuate in transverse cross-section. The bottom panel is connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the lower opening. The top panel is connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the upper opening. The panels combine to define an internal storage region. Further, each of the panels are formed from a paper and plastic material configured to maintain integrity of particulate-type product disposed within the internal storage region. In one preferred embodiment, the canister is configured to maintain a dry, ready-to-eat cereal food product.

By providing at least one arcuate-shaped corner, the canister facilitates handling by individuals with limited hand dexterity.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a canister in accordance with the present invention with a portion cut away;

FIG. 2 is a top view of the canister of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top view of the canister of FIG. 1 with a lid portion removed; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a canister in accordance with the present invention illustrating a movable lid portion;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a canister in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 6 is a top view of an alternative canister in accordance with the present invention with a portion removed; and

FIG. 7 illustrates a canister in accordance with the present invention in a pouring operation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

One preferred embodiment of a canister 10 is shown in FIG. 1. The canister 10 includes opposing face panels 12 (one of which is shown in FIG. 1), opposing side panels

14 (one of which is shown in FIG. 1), a bottom panel 16 (shown partially in FIG. 1) and a top panel 18. As described in greater detail below, the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 are preferably integrally formed. The bottom panel 16 is connected to the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 at a lower portion thereof. Similarly, the top panel 18 is connected to the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 at an upper portion thereof. This configuration provides for an internal storage region 20 (shown partially in FIG. 1 ) within which a particulate- type product 22 is disposed. Notably, directional terminology such as "bottom," "top," "upper" and "lower" are used for purposes of illustration and with reference to a desired upright orientation of the canister 10 as shown in FIG. 1. However, the canister 10 can be positioned in other orientations such that the directional terminology is in no way limiting. Each of the panels 12 -18 is formed from a paper and plastic material. For example, in one preferred embodiment, a layer of plastic is adhered or laminated to a layer of paper or paperboard to form each of the panels 12 - 18. Multiple layers of plastic and/or paper can also be employed. Alternatively, a plastic material or resin can be intertwined with the fibers of a paperboard. Regardless of exact construction, the resulting panels 12 - 18 are preferably formed to allow printing or similar displays on an outer surface 24 (shown generally in FIG. 1) thereof. Thus, the panels 12 - 18 are preferably highly similar in appearance to currently available box with an inner liner cartons. Further, the combination paper and plastic material is preferably recyclable and provides a functional barrier to at least one of flavor, aroma, moisture, oil, grease, other contaminants, insects, etc. The selected plastic must be suitable for contact with the particulate-type product 22. For example, where the particulate-type product 22 is a food product, the selected plastic material must be approved for food contact, as is well known in the art. Thus, for example, the plastic material can be polyethylene (low density or high density), chlorinated plastic, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyester, nylon, polypropylene, etc. Even further, the plastic can be various co-polymers, blends or a combination of plastic materials.

By forming the panels 12 - 18 from a combination of paper and plastic material, the resulting canister 10 is semi-rigid (due to the paper board material), and is able to serve as a functional barrier (via the plastic material) to aroma, moisture, oil, grease or other contaminants. Thus, the canister 10 can be used to maintain a wide variety of parti culate- type products. For example, the particulate-type product 22 can be a food product, and in particular a dry food product. One specific category of available food products is cereal- based products (e.g., formed from wheat, oats, rice, etc). These include ready-to-eat cereals such as puffs, flakes, shreds, and combinations thereof. Further, the ready-to-eat cereal product can include other ingredients such as dried fruits, nuts, dried marshmallows, sugar coatings etc. Alternatively, other particulate-type dry food products can be maintained by the canister 10 such as, for example, popcorn (popped or unpopped), dried pasta (e.g., spaghetti noodles), rice, beans, pretzels, potato chips, sugar, dried milk, flour, etc. Even further, other consumable items such as birdseed can be used as the particulate- type product 22. Yet even further, non-consumable particulate-type products can be stored including fertilizer pellets, dry laundry detergent, dry dishwashing detergent, plant or vegetable seeds, de-icing salt pellets, etc. Regardless of the exact product selected for the particulate-type product 22, the combination paper and plastic material comprising the panels 12 - 18 facilitates the canister 10 maintaining integrity of the product 22 independent of any additional liners or bags. That is to say, the panels 12 - 18 provide a barrier to moisture and contaminants, thereby protecting the product 22 and maintaining freshness.

With the above-described paper and plastic composition of the panels 12 - 18 in mind, the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 are preferably integrally formed. Alternatively, the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 can be independently formed and subsequently secured to one another. Regardless, the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 are preferably sized to maintain a preferred volume of the particulate-type product 22. To this end, a resulting shape of a combination of the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 preferably corresponds with a shape and size of "standard" packaging normally associated with the product 22. Thus, where the product 22 is a ready-to-eat cereal, the shape and size of the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 is preferably highly similar to the size and shape of a carton within which the cereal is normally provided. By employing a similar package size, consumers will be familiar with and readily identify contents of the canister 10. Thus, in one preferred embodiment, the opposing face panels 12 each have a height of approximately 12 inches and width of approximately 8 inches, whereas the opposing side panels 14 each have a width of approximately 2 ³Λ inches and a height of approximately 12 inches. Importantly, a wide variety of other sizes, either greater or smaller, and shapes are equally acceptable.

Regardless of the exact size and shape, the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 combine to form a plurality of longitudinally extending comers 30. In one preferred embodiment, four of the longitudinally extending comers 30 are provided (three of which are shown in FIG. 1). As illustrated in FIG. 1, each of the longitudinally extending comers 30 is preferably rounded. Each of the comers 30 is arcuate in transverse cross-section. By forming the comers 30 in this manner, the canister 10 facilitates easy handling by a user (not shown). Unlike a "standard" paper carton design in which the comers are formed as sharp, ninety-degree angles, the preferred arcuate configuration of the comers 30 comfortably fits within a user's hand. This preferred feature allows a user with limited hand dexterity (such as a child or elderly individual) to easily grasp and maneuver the canister 10. While all of the comers 30 are depicted in FIG. 1 as being rounded, as few as one of the comers 30 can be so-formed yet still provide a "easy-to-handle" characteristic. Even further, one or both of the opposing side panels 14 can be rounded or bowed to facilitate easy handling.

The bottom panel 16 is sized in accordance with a cross-sectional shape of the combination of the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14. Thus, the bottom panel 16 is preferably curvilinear, having relatively straight sides and arcuate or curved comers. The top panel 18 is similarly sized in accordance with a cross-sectional shape of the opposing face panels 12 in combination with the opposing side panels 14. As a result, the top panel 18 preferably has relatively straight sides and arcuate or curved comers. One preferred embodiment of the top panel 18 is shown in FIG. 2. The top panel 18 is depicted as including a body portion 40 and a lid 42. As a point of reference, the lid 42 is shown in

FIG. 2 in a closed position whereby the lid 42 is substantially contiguous with the body portion 40. In general terms, the lid 42 is preferably configured to be movable relative to the body portion 40. Thus, in one preferred embodiment, the lid 42 is pivotable relative to the body portion 40 along a pivot point 44. This pivoting relationship can be created by forming a bend into the top panel 18. Alternatively, an additional hinge body can be provided. Conversely, the lid 42 can be configured so as to be entirely removable from the body portion 40, such as along a perforation line. In this regard, the body portion 40 can be configured to include a ridge to which the lid 42 snap fits. Regardless of exact construction, however, the top panel 18 is preferably configured such that the lid 42 is maintained in a closed position (FIG. 2) by frictional engagement with the body portion

40.

By preferably providing the movable lid 42, access to the internal storage region 20, and thus the particulate-type product 22, of the canister 10 is easily gained as shown in FIG. 3 and 4. With respect to FIG. 3, movement of the lid 42 to an open position generates a pour opening 46 in the top panel 18. For ease of illustration, the canister 10 is shown in FIG. 3 with the lid 42 (FIG. 2) removed. The pour opening 46 provides access to the internal storage region 20 (shown generally in FIG. 3) of the canister 10, and thus to the particulate-type product 22 (FIG. 1). Due to the relatively rigid nature of the top panel 18, the pour opening 46 is fixed in terms of shape and size. The pour opening 46 is preferably configured to be relatively large. For example, the pour opening 46 preferably has a width approximating a spacing between the opposing face panels 12 and length of at least one-fourth a length of the top panel 18, more preferably one-third. Alternatively, other sizes can also be useful. By providing a fixed, relatively large configuration for the pour opening 46, regulated, consistent flow of product through the pour opening 46 can be achieved as described below. In other words, the fixed pour opening 46 will not change in shape or size, unlike the standard box with an inner liner package. FIG. 3 further depicts one preferred approach for selectively securing the lid 42 to the body portion 40. In particular, the top panel 18 is configured to provide a plurality of tabs 48 extending from the body portion 40. The tabs 48 are sized to extend inwardly from the body portion 40, so as to engage the lid 42 (FIG. 2) in the closed position. While three of the tabs 48 are shown, any other number, either greater or lesser, can be included.

Movement of the lid 42 to an open position is best shown with reference to FIG. 4. In one preferred embodiment, the top panel 18 is configured such that the lid 42 is independently maintained in the open position such as by friction or other mechanical means. In other words, a user (not shown) must purposely move the lid 42 back to the closed position (FIG. 1); the lid 42 will not unexpectedly "close" on its own. As further shown in FIG. 4, the canister 10 preferably includes indicia 50 providing visual guidance and/or instructions relating to proper operation of the movable lid 42. The indicia 50 can be formed on any of the panels 12 - 18, and can extend or be continuous from one panel, such as one of the opposing face panels 12, to another panel, such as one of the opposing side panels 14. The indicia 50 may assume a wide variety of forms, including words, symbols, illustrations, etc. In addition to providing instructions on operation of the movable lid 42, the indicia 50 can also be configured to draw a consumer's (not shown) attention to the movable lid feature, thereby potentially enticing a consumer to purchase the canister 10 and the product 22 disposed therein. Assembly of the canister is shown generally in FIG. 5. As previously described, the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 are preferably integrally formed. In this regard, a combination of the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 defines an upper opening 60 (shown partially in FIG. 5) and a lower opening 62 (shown partially in FIG. 5). The bottom panel 16 is connected to the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 so as to encompass the lower opening 62.

For example, in one preferred embodiment, the bottom panel 16 is sealed to the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 at the lower opening 62. Alternatively, a separate attachment body, such as an adhesive tape or laminant, or other mechanical device, can be used to affix the bottom panel 16. Once assembled, the opposing face panels 12, the opposing side panels 14 and the bottom panel 16 combine to define the internal storage region 20 (FIG. 1). A desired volume of the particulate-type product 22 is then disposed within the internal storage region 20. Finally, the top panel 18 is connected to the opposing face panels 12 and the opposing side panels 14 so as to encompass the upper opening 60. In one preferred embodiment, the top panel 18 is directly sealed to the panels 12, 14. Alternatively, a separate attachment body, such as an adhesive tape or laminant, or other mechanical device, can be used to affix the top panel 18. Upon final assembly, the particulate-type product 22 is sealed within the internal storage region 20.

During use, the lid 42 is maneuvered from the closed position (FIG. 1) to the open position (FIG. 4). For example, the lid 42 can be pivoted relative to the body portion 40 (FIG. 2). Alternatively, the lid 42 can be entirely removed from the canister 10. Importantly, the canister 10 does not include a separate inner liner that would otherwise require opening by a user. In one preferred embodiment, to enhance a perception of product freshness and to provide an indication of product tampering, the canister 10 can further include a membrane 70 as shown in FIG. 6. For ease of illustration, the canister 10 is shown in FIG. 6 with the lid 42 (FIG. 4) removed. The membrane 70 is preferably positioned beneath the top panel 18 and extends across the opening 46 generated by movement of the lid 42 to the open position. For example, the membrane 70 can be adhered to an inner surface of the top panel 18, or may extend between the opposing face panels 12 at the area of the opening 46. The membrane 70 is preferably a thin layer comprised of a plastic, paper or combination thereof. To facilitate removal of at least a portion of the membrane 70, the membrane 70 is preferably formed to include perforations

72. The perforations 72 can be imparted via any readily available manufacturing technique and can assume a wide variety of forms. Additionally, the membrane 70 can include indicia 74 configured to provide visual instructions to a user of membrane removal. For example, the indicia 74 can include words, symbols or illustrations describing to a user the necessary steps for removal of the membrane 70 from the canister

10. Regardless, the membrane 70 is either completely or partially removed to expose the opening 46.

Following opening of the canister 10, a user (not shown) is then able to pour a desired quantity of the particulate-type product 22 as shown in FIG. 7. During this pouring operation, the user is able to directly confirm product flow rate and volume. In other words, unlike a "standard" box with an inner liner design, the canister 10 of the present invention does not impede the user's view of the opening 46. In the open position, the canister 10 does not include any upwardly extending flaps or similar carton material that would otherwise obstruct viewing of the opening 46 and thus flow of the product 22 from the canister 10. Further, as previously described, the opening 46 is preferably fixed. Thus, a relatively consistent product flow and volume from the canister 10 can be achieved from use-to-use. Along these same lines, because the canister 10 does not require a separate liner or inner bag, the long standing problem of liner dislodgment during pouring will not occur. In short, the regulated product flow prevents an unexpectedly large volume of product from being distributed from the canister 10, and thereby minimizes spillage. As a point of reference with respect to FIG. 7, the lid 42 can be positioned or pivoted at a greater angle relative to the body portion 40 for pouring larger sized product particles.

Following distribution of a desired volume of the product 22 from the canister 10, the lid 42 is returned to the closed position (FIG. 1). Once again, the user is not required to fold or roll a separate inner liner or bag to effectuate closure. As previously described, the lid 42 is preferably frictionally secured in the closed position. Thus, following use and reclosure, the canister 10 provides a relatively complete functional barrier to flavor, aroma, moisture, contaminants, insects, etc., thereby giving a perceived increase in product freshness. Additionally, by selectively securing the lid 42 in the closed position, the canister 10 can be placed in any orientation, whether purposefully or accidentally, without undesired spillage of the product 22 from the canister 10. In other words, during normal storage, the canister 10 is typically placed upright, supported by the bottom panel 16. Alternatively, however, the canister 10 can be stored in a prone position whereby the canister is supported at one of the face panels 12, the opposing side panels 14 or the top panel 18. With any of these orientations, the lid 42 remains in the closed position, thereby preventing accidental release of the product 22. Similarly, in the event the canister 10 is inadvertently tipped from the upright position, the lid 42 will remain in the closed position, again preventing accidental product spillage.

The canister of the present invention provides a marked improvement over previous designs. Pointedly, the canister eliminates the need for, and associated problems found with, a separate plastic liner or bag required by currently used box with an inner liner packaging. Persons with limited hand dexterity are no longer required to use a hand tool, such as a knife or scissors, to open the packaging. At the same time, by utilizing a combination paper and plastic material for the various panels comprising the canister, product integrity is maintained. Further, preferred features of the canister directly address consumer preferences. For example, incorporating a movable lid renders the canister easy to open and reclose. Similarly, the movable lid preferably generates a fixed opening, thereby providing for consistent, regulated product flow. Additionally, the canister of the present invention can conveniently be handled by individuals with limited hand dexterity via the preferred rounded comers. Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the canister has been depicted as being generally rectangular in shape. Alternatively, other shapes are equally acceptable. Also, the canister can contain items in addition to the particulate-type product. For example, a coupon or premium can be placed within the canister along with the particulate-type product.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A canister for storing a particulate-type product, the canister comprising: opposing face panels; opposing side panels integrally formed with the opposing face panels to define an upper opening and a lower opening; a bottom panel connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the lower opening, wherein the opposing face panels, the opposing side panels and the bottom panel combine to define an internal storage region; and a top panel connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the upper opening, the top panel including: a body portion, a lid movably secured to the body portion, the lid being configured to provide selective access to the internal storage region; wherein each of the panels are formed from a paper and plastic material configured to maintain integrity of product disposed within the intemal storage region.

2. The canister of claim 1, wherein the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels combine to form longitudinally extending comers, and further wherein at least one of the longitudinally extending co ers is arcuate in transverse cross-section.

3. The canister of claim 2, wherein each of the longitudinally extending comers is arcuate in transverse cross-section.

4. The canister of claim 1, wherein the lid is configured to be movable from a closed position in which the lid is substantially contiguous with the body portion to prevent displacement of product from the internal storage region and an open position in which at least a portion of the lid is spaced from the body portion to allow passage of product from the internal storage region through a pour opening defined by a spacing of the lid from the body portion.

5. The canister of claim 4, wherein a size of the pour opening is substantially fixed in the open position.

6. The canister of claim 4, wherein the pour opening has a width approximating a spacing between the opposing face panels.

7. The canister of claim 4, wherein the pour opening is configured to regulate flow of product from the intemal storage region during a pouring operation.

8. The canister of claim 4, wherein the top panel does not obstruct viewing of the pour opening in the open position.

9. The canister of claim 4, wherein the top panel is configured such that the lid is frictionally securable to the body portion in the closed position.

10. The canister of claim 4, wherein the top panel is configured such that the lid is selectively securable in the open position.

11. The canister of claim 4, wherein the bottom panel is configured to support the canister in an upright position, and further wherein the top panel is configured such that the lid remains in the closed position when the canister is tipped from the upright position to prevent undesired release of product from the internal storage region.

12. The canister of claim 11, wherein the top panel is configured such that the lid remains in the closed position when the canister is orientated in a prone position.

13. The canister of claim 4, wherein the top panel further includes a plurality of tabs extending from the body portion for selectively securing the lid in the closed position.

14. The canister of claim 4, further comprising: a membrane extending beneath the top panel across the pour opening, the membrane forming perforations configured to facilitate selective removal of at least a portion of the membrane away from the pour opening.

15. The canister of claim 14, further comprising: indicia disposed on the membrane, the indicia configured to provide visual instructions for removal of at least a portion of the membrane away from the pour opening.

16. The canister of claim 4, further comprising: indicia disposed on an outer surface of at least one of the panels, the indicia being configured to provide visual instructions for moving the lid from the closed position to the open position.

17. The canister of claim 16, wherein the indicia is continuous from at least one of the opposing face panels to at least one of the opposing side panels.

18. The canister of claim 1, wherein the paper and plastic material forms a functional barrier.

19. The canister of claim 1, wherein the canister is configured to store a ready-to-eat cereal food product.

20. A packaged good article comprising: a canister including: opposing face panels, opposing side panels integrally formed with the opposing face panels to define an upper opening and a lower opening, a bottom panel connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the lower opening, wherein the opposing face panels, the opposing side panels and the bottom panel combine to define an internal storage region, a top panel connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the upper opening, the top panel including: a body portion, a lid movably secured to the body portion, the lid being configured to provide selective access to the internal storage region; and a particulate-type product disposed within the internal storage region; wherein each of the panels are formed from a paper and plastic material configured to maintain integrity of the particulate-type product within the internal storage region.

21. The packaged good article of claim 20, wherein the particulate-type product is dry.

22. The packaged good article of claim 20, wherein the particulate-type product is a food product.

23. The packaged good article of claim 22, wherein the food product is a cereal.

24. The packaged good article of claim 22, wherein the food product is a ready-to-eat cereal.

25. The packaged good article of claim 20, wherein the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels combine to form four longitudinally extending comers, and further wherein at least one of the longitudinally extending comers is arcuate in transverse cross- section.

26. The packaged good article of claim 25, wherein each of the longitudinally extending comers is arcuate in transverse cross-section.

27. The packaged good article of claim 20, wherein the lid is configured to be movable from a closed position in which the lid is substantially contiguous with the body portion to prevent displacement of the product from the internal storage region and an open position in which at least a portion of the lid is spaced from the body portion to allow passage of the product from the internal storage region through a pour opening defined by a spacing of the lid from the body portion.

28. The packaged good article of claim 27, wherein a size of the pour opening is substantially fixed in the open position.

29. The packaged good article of claim 27, wherein the pour opening has a width approximating a spacing between the opposing face panels.

30. The packaged good article of claim 27, wherein the pour opening is configured to regulate flow of the product from the internal storage region during a pouring operation.

31. The packaged good article of claim 27, wherein the top panel does not obstruct viewing of the pour opening in the open position.

32. The packaged good article of claim 27, wherein the top panel is configured such that the lid is frictionally securable to the base in the closed position.

33. The packaged good article of claim 27, wherein the top panel is configured such that the lid is selectively securable in the open position.

34. The packaged good article of claim 27, wherein the bottom panel is configured to support the canister in an upright position, and further wherein the top panel is configured such that the lid remains in the closed position when the canister is tipped from the upright position to prevent undesired release of the product.

35. The packaged good article of claim 34, wherein the top panel is configured such that the lid remains in the closed position when the canister is orientated in a prone position.

36. The packaged good article of claim 27, wherein the top panel further includes a plurality of tabs extending from the body portion for selectively securing the lid in the closed position.

37. The packaged good article of claim 27, further comprising: a membrane extending beneath the top panel across the pour opening, the membrane forming perforations configured to facilitate selective removal of at least a portion of the membrane away from the pour opening.

38. The packaged good article of claim 37, further comprising: indicia disposed on the membrane, the indicia configured to provide visual instructions for removal of at least a portion of the membrane away from the pour opening.

39. The packaged good article of claim 27, further comprising: indicia disposed on an outer surface of at least one of the panels, the indicia being configured to provide visual instructions for moving the lid from the closed position to the open position.

40. The packaged good article of claim 39, wherein the indicia is continuous from at least one of the opposing face panels to at least one of the opposing side panels.

41. The packaged good article of claim 27, wherein the paper and plastic material forms a functional barrier.

2. A canister for storing particulate-type product, the canister comprising: opposing face panels; opposing side panels integrally formed with the opposing face panels to define an upper opening, a lower opening and four longitudinally extending comers, wherein at least one of the longitudinally extending comers is arcuate in transverse cross-section; a bottom panel connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the lower opening; and a top panel connected to the opposing face panels and the opposing side panels so as to encompass the upper opening; wherein the panels combine to define an internal storage region, each of the panels being formed from a paper and plastic material configured to maintain integrity of product disposed within the intemal storage region.

43. The canister of claim 42, wherein each of the longitudinally extending comers is arcuate in transverse cross-section.

44. The canister of claim 42, wherein the top panel includes: a body portion; and a lid movably secured to the body portion, the lid being configured to provide selective access to the internal storage region.

45. The canister of claim 44, wherein the lid is configured to be movable from a closed position in which the lid is substantially contiguous with the body portion to prevent displacement of product from the intemal storage region and an open position in which at least a portion of the lid is spaced from the body portion to allow passage of product from the internal storage region through a pour opening defined by a spacing of the lid from the body portion.

46. The canister of claim 45, wherein the top panel is configured such that the lid is frictionally securable to the body portion in the closed position.

47. The canister of claim 45, wherein the bottom panel is configured to support the canister in an upright position, and further wherein the top panel is configured such that the lid remains in the closed position when the canister is tipped from the upright position.

48. The canister of claim 45, further comprising: a membrane extending beneath the top panel across the pour opening, the membrane forming perforations configured to facilitate selective removal of at least a portion of the membrane away from the pour opening.

49. The canister of claim 42, wherein the canister is configured to store a ready-to-eat cereal food product.

50. The canister of claim 42, wherein the paper and plastic material forms a functional barrier.