Thin-Walled Metal Cup

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of metal containers. The present invention relates specifically to thin-walled metal cups such as short tumblers (i.e., lowball, rocks glass, etc.) or snack cups. A typical short tumbler is fabricated from a material like glass and is designed to contain a liquid. Although reusable, glass is brittle and therefore prone to breakage and can be expensive to manufacture because of material costs and the high energy requirements. Additionally, due to the heaviness or weight of the glass containers, there may be high transportation costs. Furthermore, it is not just the use of metal which is important, it is also the selection of the metal and particular configuration changes from a typical glass container which are important. In particular, the container must be configured to permit high speed, economical manufacturing, configured to permit dense packing for shipping, and configured to include a similar volume and/or have a volume indicator associated with the typical volume of liquid in a short tumbler.

Similarly, snack cups are frequently fabricated from materials like plastic and are designed to contain food (e.g., crackers, nuts, fruit, etc.). However, plastic snack cups are frequently designed for single use. The production of such plastic snack cups negatively impacts the environment because a large proportion of plastic cups are sent to landfills and may end up adding to pollution of the environment. Given the negative environmental impacts associated with single use plastic cups, metal would be a more desirable material from which to manufacture a reusable snack cup.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One embodiment of the invention relates to a metal tumbler. The metal tumbler includes a first end and a second end opposing the first end. The first end includes a bore. The metal tumbler further includes a rim and a sidewall. The rim extends between an outer edge and an inner edge. The rim is centered on a longitudinal axis. The sidewall extends between the first end and the second end of the tumbler and extends along the longitudinal axis. The sidewall includes an exterior surface, an interior surface, and a plurality of tapered sections. The plurality of tapered sections extend between the first end and the second end of the tumbler. The tumbler includes a bottom having a circular surface generally parallel to the rim and centered on the longitudinal axis. The circular surface connects to a trough at an outside edge of the circular surface. An upper edge of one of the plurality of tapered sections indicates a volume of 6 ounces.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a one-piece metal tumbler. The metal tumbler includes an open end with a bore and a closed end opposing the open end. The metal tumbler further includes a rim and a sidewall. The rim extends between an outside edge an inside edge and the rim is centered on a longitudinal axis. The sidewall extends between the open end and the closed end of the tumbler. The sidewall includes a first tapered section with a first upper edge, a second tapered section with a second upper edge, and a third tapered section coupled to the rim. The tumbler further includes a bottom with a circular surface generally parallel to the rim and centered on the longitudinal axis. The circular surface connects to a trough at an outside edge of the circular surface. The first tapered section is positioned between the bottom and the second tapered section. The first upper edge indicates a first volume and the second upper edge indicates a second volume.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a one-piece metal cup. The metal cup includes a first end having a bore and a second end opposing the first end of the cup. The cup further includes a rim and a sidewall. The rim defines a first width between an outer edge, an inner edge, and a flat portion positioned between the outer edge and the inner edge and having a second width. The sidewall extends between the first end and the second end of the cup and extends along a longitudinal axis. The sidewall includes an exterior surface, an interior surface, and a plurality of tapered sections. The plurality of tapered sections extend between the first end and the second end of the cup. The cup further includes a bottom having a circular surface generally parallel to the rim and centered on the longitudinal axis. The circular surface connects to a trough on an outside edge of the circular surface.

Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description or recognized by practicing the embodiments as described in the written description and/or shown in the accompany drawings. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary.

The accompanying drawings are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain principles and operation of the various embodiments. In addition, alternative exemplary embodiments relate to other features and combinations of features as may be generally recited in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

This application will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements in which:

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a short metal tumbler, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the short metal tumbler of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the short metal tumbler of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a rear view of the short metal tumbler of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a right side view of the short metal tumbler of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a left side view of the short metal tumbler of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the short metal tumbler of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the short metal tumbler of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of a metal snack cup, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a front view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a rear view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a right side view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a left side view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a top view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 9, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of a metal snack cup, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 17, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 17 and a lid, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of a metal snack cup, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a side view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 20, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 21 and a lid, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of a metal snack cup, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a side view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 23, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a top perspective view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 23 and a lid, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a top perspective view of a metal snack cup, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a side view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 26, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 28 is a top perspective view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 26 and a lid, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 29 is a top perspective view of a metal snack cup, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 30 is a side view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 29, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 31 is a top perspective view of the metal snack cup of FIG. 29 and a lid, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to the figures, various embodiments of a metal container, such as a short tumbler and/or a snack cup, are shown. In various embodiments, the short tumbler and snack cup are formed from a metal material. As discussed herein, Applicant has developed a multi-tapered metal tumbler with a number of improvements relative to glass tumblers and/or single-use plastic cups. In various embodiments, the short metal tumbler includes a wall thickness that is relatively small allowing for an overall smaller weight of the cup while the metal material creates a robust short tumbler suitable for multiple uses. The metal tumbler includes one or more tapered sections allowing both for dense packaging and provides one or more volume indicators associated with the typical volumes of liquid in a short tumbler.

Furthermore, the multi-tapered shape of the short tumbler allows for improved grasping for users.

As discussed herein, Applicant has developed a one-piece multi-tapered metal snack cup with a number of improvements. In various embodiments, the metal snack cup includes a wall thickness that is relatively small allowing for an overall smaller weight of the cup while the metal material creates a robust metal snack cup suitable for multiple uses. The metal snack cup includes one or more tapered sections allowing both for dense packaging and storage of the snack cups when empty. Furthermore, Applicant believes the use of common tapered sections, a common sealing ledge and/or lip and/or common geometries allow for easy height adjustment to meet specific volume requirements. In various embodiments, the metal snack cup includes a rim having a width that is relatively large to allow for easy application of a lid and/or sealing of a lid onto the metal snack cup. The metal material, the reusable nature of the metal snack cup, and the tapered shape contribute to decreased negative health and environmental impact (i.e., less chemical ingestion by users, pollution, dense packing, etc.) compared to conventional plastic snack cups.

Referring to FIGS. 1-2, a metal container, shown as a short metal tumbler 10, is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Metal tumbler 10 includes a body 12 coupled to a rolled top edge shown as rim 18. Body 12 extends along and is centered on a longitudinal axis, shown as a central axis 20 between a top end or first end 14 and a bottom or second end 16. The top end or first end 14 is positioned adjacent to a rim 18 and the bottom or second end 16 opposes the top end 14. Top end 14 of body 12 includes an opening or bore 22 centered around a longitudinal axis, shown as central axis 20.

Body 12 is at least partially defined by a sidewall 24. Body 12 further includes an exterior surface 28 and an interior surface 26. An inner edge 19 of rim 18 at least partially defines bore 22. Bore 22 extends along and is centered on longitudinal axis 20 between top end 14 and bottom end 16. In various embodiments, metal tumbler 10 may include a container lid or cover. The container cover may be any element that allows the metal tumbler 10 to be sealed such that the container is capable of enclosing a liquid (i.e., prevent spilling). In various specific embodiments, the cover is one of a snap top, cellulose, or foil cover.

In various specific embodiments, metal tumbler 10 is formed as a single, unitary, integral, or one-piece cup. In various embodiments, metal tumbler 10 is formed from metals such as steel, aluminum, aluminum alloys (e.g., 3104), etc. In a specific embodiment, metal tumbler 10 is formed from stainless steel. In various embodiments, metal tumbler 10 can be utilized with various laminate lids. For example, when heat sealing is used, a polypropylene (PP) laminate or organic coating is utilized with metal tumbler 10. As another example, when heat sealing is not used, a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) laminate is utilized with metal tumbler 10.

Referring to FIGS. 3-6, side views of metal tumbler 10 are shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. As noted above, body 12 and/or sidewall 24 include more than one taper or tapered section. In various embodiments, sidewall 24 includes a first tapered section 30, a second tapered section 32 and a third tapered section 34. First tapered section 30 extends generally upward from a bottom wall 40. Bottom wall 40 includes a bottom wall edge 39 at second end 16 of metal tumbler 10 and a trough 42 (see e.g., FIG. 2) at the periphery of bottom wall 40. First tapered section 30 is positioned between bottom wall 40 and second tapered section 32. Second tapered section 32 is positioned between first tapered section 30 and third tapered section 34. Third tapered section 34 is positioned between second tapered section 32 and rim 18.

Body 12 and/or sidewall 24 further includes one or more transition surfaces. Such transition surfaces or sections may be smooth continuous curved sections. A first transition section 36 connects first tapered section 30 and second tapered section 32. A second transition section 38 connects second tapered section 32 and third tapered section 34. In other embodiments, the thin-walled cup could include a body with a different number of sections and transition surfaces (e.g., 4 sections and 3 transition surfaces, 6 sections and 5 transition surfaces etc.).

Sidewall 24 includes an upper boundary or upper edge 46 of first tapered section 30. Upper boundary 46 is positioned between first tapered section 30 and second tapered section 32. Sidewall 24 further includes a lower boundary or edge 44 of second tapered section 32. An upper boundary or edge 50 of second tapered section 32 is positioned between second tapered section 32 and third tapered section 34. Sidewall 24 further includes a lower boundary or edge 48 of third tapered section 34. In various embodiments, the metal tumbler 10 is entirely stackable due to the taper.

In various specific embodiments, upper boundary 46 of first tapered section 30 is positioned to indicate a volume of about 6 oz (e.g., 6 oz plus or minus 0.25 oz). In various specific embodiments, upper boundary 50 of second tapered section 32 is positioned to indicate a volume of about 9 oz (e.g., 9 oz plus or minus 0.25 oz). In general, metal tumbler 10 and specifically bore 22 can contain about 12.5 oz. of liquid (e.g., 12.5 oz plus or minus 0.5 oz).

In various specific embodiments, the tapered sections 30, 32, 34, 36 and 38 of sidewall 24 may have varying angles relative to a reference parallel to longitudinal axis 20. In various embodiments, tapered section 30 has a height defined between bottom 40 and upper edge 46 that is greater than a height of second tapered section 32 and third tapered section 34. The height of second tapered section is defined between lower edge 44 and upper edge 50 of second tapered section 32. The height of third tapered section 34 is defined between lower edge 48 of third tapered section 34 and a bottom of rim 18. In various embodiments, a height of second tapered section 32 is the same as a height of third tapered section 34. In various other embodiments, the height of second tapered section 32 is different than the third tapered section 34.

Referring to FIG. 4, a first height, shown as H1 is defined between rim 18 and a lower boundary or edge 48 of third tapered section 34. In various specific embodiments, H1 is between. 60 and 0.90 inches and more specifically between 0.70 and 0.85 inches. A total height of metal tumbler 10, shown as H2 is defined between a top of rim 18 and a bottom edge 39 of trough 42. In a specific embodiment, H2 is between 2.8 and 3.5 inches and mores specifically between 3.1 and 3.4 inches. In such an embodiment, H2 is about 3.254 inches ±0.02 inches.

Referring to FIG. 5, metal tumbler and specifically rim 18 is tightly curved and includes a thickness, shown as T1. T1 is defined between a top of rim 18 and a bottom of rim 18. In a specific embodiment, T1 is between 0.05 and 0.09 inches, more specifically between 0.060 and 0.080 and in such an embodiment is about 0.07 inches ±0.01 inches. In various specific embodiments, T1 is less than 0.1 inches.

Referring to FIGS. 5-6, various diameters of metal tumbler 10 are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. At top end 14 of cylindrical wall 12, a first diameter shown as D1 is defined between outside edges of rim 18. In a specific embodiment, D1 is between 3.1 and 3.5 inches and more specifically between 3.2 and 3.4 inches. In such embodiments D1 is about 3.327 inches ±0.01 inches.

Bore 22 and interior surface 26 define a second diameter, shown as D2. In a specific embodiment, D2 is between 85% and 99% of D1, specifically between 90% and 99% of D2 and more specifically between 94% and 97% of D1. In a specific embodiment, D2 is between 3 and 3.3 inches and more specifically between 3.1 and 3.2 inches. In such embodiments D2 is about 3.187 inches ±0.01 inches.

At bottom end 16 of cylindrical wall 12, a third diameter shown as D3. D3 is defined as an outside diameter at first tapered section 30. In a specific embodiment, D3 is between 2.6 and 3.0 inches and in such embodiments D3 is about 2.818 inches ±0.01 inches. In a specific embodiment D3 is between 75% and 90% of D1, specifically between 80% and 90% of D1 and more specifically between 82% and 86% of D1. In a specific embodiment, D3 is about 84.7% of D1.

Referring to FIGS. 7-8, a top view and bottom view of metal tumbler 10 are shown. Trough 42 and specifically bottom edge 39 defines a lowermost point of bottom wall 40. Bottom wall 40 further includes an exterior bottom surface 37 connected to trough 42. As shown in FIG. 2, trough 42 includes a depth. The depth of trough 42 is defined between bottom surface 37 and bottom edge 39. In various specific embodiments, the depth of trough 42 is between 0.04 and 0.08 inches, more specifically between 0.050 and 0.070 inches, and in such an embodiment is about 0.06 inches ±0.01 inches.

Referring to FIGS. 9-10, a metal container, shown as a metal snack cup 110, is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Snack cup 110 is substantially the same as tumbler 10 except for the differences discussed herein. Snack cup 110 includes a body 112 coupled to a rolled top edge shown as rim 118. Body 112 extends along and is centered on a longitudinal axis, shown as a central axis 120 between a top end or first end 114 and a bottom or second end 116. The top end or first end 114 is positioned adjacent to a rim 118 and the bottom or second end 116 opposes the top end 114. Top end 114 of body 112 includes an opening or bore 122 centered around a longitudinal axis, shown as central axis 120.

Body 112 is at least partially defined by a sidewall 124. Body 112 further includes an exterior surface 128 and an interior surface 126. An inner edge 119 of rim 118 at least partially defines bore 122. Rim 118 extends between inner edge 119 and an outer edge 121. In various embodiments, rim 118 includes a flat and/or planar portion. In other words, in such embodiments rim 118 forms a flange. A width, W1, of rim 118 is defined between inner edge 119 and outer edge 121. In various embodiments, W1 is between 0.1 and 0.2 inches and more specifically between 0.15 and 0.19 inches. In a specific embodiment, W1 is about 0.169 inches ±0.02 inches.

Applicant believes having a flat or planar portion of the rim as discussed herein provides a surface that allows for improved coupling to a lid. For example, Applicant believes that the of a sealing a lid to snack cup 110 is improved by the flat and/or planar portion of the rim. In various embodiments, the planar or flat portion of rim 118 is between 30% and 50% of W1, specifically between 35% and 45% of W1 and more specifically between 38% and 42% of W1. In a specific embodiment, the flat or planar portion of rim 118 is between 0.05 and 0.08 inches and more specifically between 0.06 and 0.07 inches. In such embodiments, the flat or planar portion of rim 118 is about 0.067 inches ±0.01 inches.

Bore 122 extends along and is centered on longitudinal axis 120 between top end 114 and bottom end 116. In various embodiments, metal snack cup 110 may include a container lid or cover (see e.g., lid 242 in FIG. 19, etc.). The container cover may be any element that allows the metal snack cup 110 to be sealed such that the container is capable of enclosing solid food and/or a liquid. In various specific embodiments, the cover is one of a snap top, cellulose, films (e.g., PP laminate, PET laminate, etc.), organic coating systems or foil cover. In various embodiments, the cover is configured to be utilized with snack cup 110 having various volumes (e.g., height of snack cup varies) and/or rim 118 geometries (e.g., varied rim geometry).

In various specific embodiments, metal snack cup 110 is formed as a single, unitary, integral, or one-piece cup. In various embodiments, metal snack cup 110 is formed from metals such as steel, aluminum, aluminum alloys (e.g., 3104), etc. In a specific embodiment, metal snack cup 110 is formed from stainless steel. In various embodiments, metal snack cup 110 can be utilized with various laminate lids. For example, when heat sealing is used, a polypropylene (PP) laminate is utilized with metal snack cup 110. As another example, when heat sealing is not used, a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) laminate is utilized with metal snack cup 110.

Referring to FIGS. 11-14, side views of metal snack cup 110 are shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. As noted above, body 112 and/or sidewall 124 include more than one taper or tapered section. In various embodiments, sidewall 124 includes a first tapered section 130, a second tapered section 132 and a third tapered section 134. First tapered section 130 extends generally upward from a bottom wall 140. Bottom wall 140 includes a bottom wall edge 139 at second end 116 of metal snack cup 110 and a trough 142 (see e.g., FIG. 10) at the periphery of bottom wall 140.

Referring to FIG. 12, a height, shown as H3 is defined between rim 118 and a lower boundary or edge 148 of third tapered section 134. In various specific embodiments, H3 is between 0.60 and 0.90 inches and more specifically between 0.70 and 0.85 inches. A total height of metal snack cup 110, shown as H4 is defined between a top of lip 218 and a bottom edge 239 of trough 242. In a specific embodiment, H4 is between 2.8 and 3.5 inches and mores specifically between 3.1 and 3.4 inches. In such an embodiment, H4 is about 3.254 inches ±0.02 inches.

Referring to FIG. 13, rim 118 is tightly curved and includes a thickness, shown as T2. In a specific embodiment, T2 is between 0.05 and 0.09 inches, more specifically between 0.060 and 0.080 and in such an embodiment is about 0.07 inches ±0.01 inches. In various specific embodiments, T2 is less than 0.1 inches. In various specific embodiments, T2 is less than 0.08 inches.

Referring to FIGS. 13-14, various diameters of metal snack cup 110 are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. At top end 114 of cylindrical wall 112, a diameter shown as D4 is defined between outside edges 121 of lip 118. In a specific embodiment, D4 is between 3.2 and 3.6 inches and more specifically between 3.4 and 3.6 inches. In such embodiments D4 is about 3.525 inches ±0.01 inches.

Bore 122 and interior surface 126 define a second diameter, shown as D5. In a specific embodiment, D5 is between 85% and 99% of D4, specifically between 85% and 95% of D4 and more specifically between 88% and 92% of D4. In a specific embodiment, D5 is between 3 and 3.3 inches and more specifically between 3.1 and 3.2 inches. In such embodiments D4 is about 3.187 inches ±0.01 inches.

At bottom end 116 of cylindrical wall 112, metal snack cup 110 has a third diameter shown as D6. D6 is defined as an outside diameter at first tapered section 130. In a specific embodiment, D6 is between 2.6 and 3.0 inches and in such embodiments D6 is about 2.818 inches ±0.01 inches. In a specific embodiment D6 is between 70% and 86% of D4, specifically between 75% and 85% of D4 and more specifically between 78% and 82% of D4. In a specific embodiment, D6 is about 80% of D4.

Referring to FIGS. 15-16, a top view and bottom view of metal snack cup 110 are shown. Trough 142 and specifically bottom edge 139 defines a lowermost point of bottom wall 140. Bottom wall 140 further includes an exterior bottom surface 137 connected to trough 142.

Referring to FIGS. 17-19, a metal container, shown as a metal snack cup 210, is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Snack cup 210 is substantially the same as snack cup 110 except for the differences discussed herein. Snack cup 210 includes a body 212 coupled to a rolled top edge shown as rim 218. Body 212 extends along and is centered on a longitudinal axis, shown as a central axis 220 between a top end or first end 214 and a bottom or second end 216. The top end or first end 214 is positioned adjacent to a rim 218 and the bottom or second end 216 opposes the top end 214. Top end 214 of body 212 includes an opening or bore 222 centered around a longitudinal axis, shown as central axis 220.

Body 212 is at least partially defined by a sidewall 224. Body 212 further includes an exterior surface 228 and an interior surface 226. An inner edge of rim 218 at least partially defines bore 222. Rim 218 extends between an inner edge and an outer edge. In various embodiments, rim 218 includes a flat and/or planar portion. In other words, in such embodiments rim 218 forms a flange. In such embodiments, the size and/or shape of rim 218 allows for sealing a cover or lid 242 onto snack cup 210. In various specific embodiments, lid 242 includes a tab 244 to allow for opening and/or pealing lid 242 off of snack cup 210.

Sidewall 224 includes a first tapered section 230, a second tapered section 232 and a third tapered section 234. A first transition section 236 is positioned between first tapered section 230 and second tapered section 232. A second transition section 238 is positioned between second tapered section 232 and third tapered section 234. In various embodiments, the metal snack cup 210 is entirely stackable due to the tapered shaped. In various specific embodiments, metal snack cup 210 and specifically bore 222 is configured to contain about 3.5 oz of food (e.g., cookies, crackers, etc.). In other words, snack cup 210 is configured to hold 3.5 oz plus or minus 0.25 oz of food.

Referring to FIGS. 20-22, a metal container, shown as a metal snack cup 310, is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Snack cup 310 is substantially the same as snack cups 210, 110 except for the differences discussed herein. In various specific embodiments, metal snack cup 310 and specifically bore 322 is configured to contain about 8 oz of food (e.g., 8 oz plus or minus 0.25 oz).

Referring to FIGS. 23-25, a metal container, shown as a metal snack cup 410, is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Snack cup 410 is substantially the same as snack cups 310, 210, 110 except for the differences discussed herein. In various specific embodiments, metal snack cup 410 and specifically bore 422 is configured to contain about 5.3 oz of food (e.g., 5.3 oz plus or minus 0.25 oz).

Referring to FIGS. 26-28, a metal container, shown as a metal snack cup 510, is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Snack cup 510 is substantially the same as snack cups 410, 310, 210, 110 except for the differences discussed herein. In various specific embodiments, metal snack cup 510 and specifically bore 522 is configured to contain about 4 oz of food (e.g., 4 oz plus or minus 0.25 oz).

Sidewall 524 includes a first tapered section 530 and a second tapered section 532. A transition section 536 is positioned between first tapered section 530 and second tapered section 532. In various embodiments, the metal snack cup 510 is entirely stackable due to the tapered shaped.

Referring to FIGS. 29-31, a metal container, shown as a metal snack cup 610, is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Snack cup 610 is substantially the same as snack cups 510, 410, 310, 210, 110 except for the differences discussed herein. Sidewall 624 includes a first tapered section 630 and a second tapered section 632. A transition section 636 is positioned between first tapered section 630 and second tapered section 632. In various specific embodiments, metal snack cup 610 and specifically bore 622 is configured to contain about 3.5oz of food (e.g., 3.5 oz plus or minus 0.25 oz).

It should be understood that the figures illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, and it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only. The construction and arrangements, shown in the various exemplary embodiments, are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Some elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process, logical algorithm, or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is in no way intended that any particular order be inferred. In addition, as used herein, the article “a” is intended to include one or more component or element, and is not intended to be construed as meaning only one.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” means the joining of two components directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional member being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature. As used herein, “rigidly coupled” refers to two components being coupled in a manner such that the components move together in a fixed positional relationship when acted upon by a force.

While the current application recites particular combinations of features in the claims appended hereto, various embodiments of the invention relate to any combination of any of the features described herein whether or not such combination is currently claimed, and any such combination of features may be claimed in this or future applications. Any of the features, elements, or components of any of the exemplary embodiments discussed above may be used alone or in combination with any of the features, elements, or components of any of the other embodiments discussed above.

In various exemplary embodiments, the relative dimensions, including angles, lengths and radii, as shown in the Figures are to scale. Actual measurements of the Figures will disclose relative dimensions, angles and proportions of the various exemplary embodiments. Various exemplary embodiments extend to various ranges around the absolute and relative dimensions, angles and proportions that may be determined from the Figures. Various exemplary embodiments include any combination of one or more relative dimensions or angles that may be determined from the Figures. Further, actual dimensions not expressly set out in this description can be determined by using the ratios of dimensions measured in the Figures in combination with the express dimensions set out in this description.