PACKAGES AND PACKAGING KITS WITH DEACTIVATABLE AND ACTIVATABLE LOCKING FEATURES

Abstract

A package including an outer sleeve including a first locking structure, a lockable receptacle lockably retained within the outer sleeve for sliding movement between a fully inserted position and an outwardly extended position, the lockable receptacle comprising a second locking structure, and a deactivating component removably associated with the first locking structure of the outer sleeve. When the deactivating component associates with the outer sleeve, the first locking structure is prevented from engaging with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle such that the lockable receptacle is slidable to the outwardly extended position.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Nos. 61/799,617; 61/837,621; and 61/837,632, filed Mar. 15, 2013, Jun. 20, 2013 and Jun. 20, 2013, respectively, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present inventions, in various embodiments, relates generally to packages and packaging kits having deactivatable and activatable locking features. More particularly, the present inventions relates to child-resistant packages having deactivatable and activatable locking feature, to packaging kits for such child-resistant packages, and to methods for deactivating or activating locking feature of such child-resistant packages.

BACKGROUND

Releasably locking containers have many uses. One use for locking containers is to control the dispensing of medicines or medicaments in the form of pills and tablets. Locking caps on medicine bottles are well known. The typical locking cap mechanism requires a coordinated alignment and tipping, or axial pressure, or inward radial squeezing while turning the cap to remove it from the containers and access to medicaments. Child-resistant locking features have been used extensively in healthcare packaging applications to prevent an inadvertent dispersion of medicines or medicaments to children.

Medicines are commonly packaged in convenient paperboard (e.g., lockable cardboard) boxes, which are more difficult to secure with child-resistant locking feature compared to medicine bottles with locking caps. Many medicaments in the form of pills or tablets are available in blister lockable receptacles that are contained inside the lockable cardboard boxes. Once the lockable cardboard box is opened, the blister lockable receptacles are exposed, making all of the medication pills or tablets immediately accessible. Thus, children may open the cardboard box and gain access to a quantity of medication pills or tablets that are not intended for their consumption.

The child-resistant packages has been extensively designed and utilized for healthcare packaging applications. However, there have been increasing consumer requests for non-child-resistant packages or for child-resistant packages with the child-resistant feature being easily deactivated. Compared to the contain bottles with caps, it is more difficult to incorporate child resistant feature to paperboard box package. It is further more difficult to incorporate, to the paperboard box package, a child resistant feature that is activatable and deactivatable by end use consumers, since the deactivation of locking feature typically requires a destruction of the locking feature and the locking feature cannot be reactivated afterward.

Therefore, there are needs for child-resistant package with a locking feature that may be deactivated and reactivated by consumers many times to control access to the packaged product therein, without destruction of the locking feature.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

According to one aspect of the first invention for which protection is sought, there is provided a deactivating component for use with a package comprising an outer sleeve having a first part of a two-part locking structure, the deactivating component comprising a concealment portion coupled to an anchoring portion, wherein the concealment portion is structured and configured for insertion internally of the outer sleeve such that the concealment portion is sufficiently disposable between the first and second parts of the two part locking structure to prevent the second-part of the two-part locking structure engaging the first part of the two-part locking structure of the outer sleeve and wherein, in use, the anchoring portion is disposed externally of the outer sleeve.

Optionally, the anchoring portion of the deactivating component comprises an upper tab including a bumpy or roughened surface portion and the concealment portion is a lower tab having a greater length than the upper tab and being tapered to a free end to facilitate its insertion internally of the outer sleeve.

The thickness of the lower tab may decrease toward the free end such that the lower tab is tapered in three dimensions.

Optionally, the anchoring portion and concealment portion are formed as a unitary, substantially flat structure, wherein the anchoring portion is wider than the concealment portion, wherein the concealment portion tapers to a free end to facilitate its insertion internally of the outer sleeve and wherein at its opposite end the concealment portion comprises two shoulder portions which serve to temporarily latch the deactivating component to the outer sleeve.

The deactivating may be inwardly recessed and shaped between the anchoring portion and the concealment portion to limit the extent to which the deactivating component is insertable internally of the outer sleeve and wherein the deactivating component is generally tee-shaped, wherein a head of the tee defines the anchoring portion and wherein a leg of the tee defines the concealment portion.

The anchoring portion and concealment portion may be formed as a unitary, substantially tubular structure, wherein the anchoring portion is wider than the outer sleeve and wider than the concealment portion.

Optionally, the deactivating component is formed as a secondary sleeve comprising: a secondary sleeve top panel, a secondary sleeve bottom panel and secondary sleeve first and second side panels interconnecting and spacing the secondary sleeve top and bottom panels and wherein the concealment portion is formed as a shaped projection from the secondary sleeve top panel and wherein the remainder of the secondary sleeve top panel, secondary sleeve bottom panel and secondary sleeve first and second side panels together form the anchoring portion.

Optionally, the external width of the secondary sleeve in the erected tubular form is sufficiently greater than an external width of the outer sleeve such that the outer sleeve is at least partially receivable within the secondary sleeve and such that the secondary sleeve is attachable to the outer sleeve by a friction fit.

The deactivating component according to claim 8 wherein an edge of the secondary sleeve top panel from which the concealment portion is formed as a shaped projection is shaped either side of the concealment portion to limit the extent to which the deactivating component is insertable internally of the outer sleeve.

Optionally, the deactivating component is formed as a substantially flat flexible panel, wherein the concealment portion is defined by a substantially “U”-shaped aperture within said flexible panel and wherein the remainder of the flexible panel provides the anchoring portion.

The deactivating component may be substantially square-shaped and wherein the width of the deactivating component is less than the width of the outer shell and wherein the length of the deactivating component is less than the length of the outer shell.

The deactivating component may be formed as a substantially tubular secondary sleeve structure comprising: a secondary sleeve top panel, a secondary sleeve bottom panel and secondary sleeve first and second side panels interconnecting and spacing the secondary sleeve top and bottom panels and wherein the concealment portion is defined by a substantially “U”-shaped aperture formed within the secondary sleeve top panel and wherein the remainder of the secondary sleeve top panel, secondary sleeve bottom panel and secondary sleeve first and second side panels together form the anchoring portion.

Optionally, the external width of the secondary sleeve in the erected tubular form is sufficiently greater than an external width of the outer sleeve such that the outer sleeve is at least partially receivable within the secondary sleeve and such that the secondary sleeve is attachable to the outer sleeve by a friction fit and wherein the length of the deactivating component is similar or equal to the length of the outer shell.

The concealment portion optionally bends to cover the first-part of the locking structure comprised in the outer sleeve when the deactivating component is inserted internally of the outer sleeve.

According to another aspect if the first invention for which protection is sought, there is provided a package and a deactivating component, the package comprising: an outer sleeve including a first part of a two-part locking structure; and a lockable receptacle lockably retained within the outer sleeve for sliding movement between a fully inserted position and an outwardly extended position, the lockable receptacle comprising a second part of the two-part locking structure; the deactivating component being removably associated with the first part of the two-part locking structure of the outer sleeve, wherein when the deactivating component associates with the outer sleeve, the first part of the two-part locking structure is prevented from engaging with the second part of the two-part locking structure of the lockable receptacle such that the lockable receptacle is slidable to the outwardly extended position, and wherein when the deactivating component disassociates from the outer sleeve, the first-part of the two-part locking structure can re-engage with the second part of the two-part locking structure of the lockable receptacle to lock the lockable receptacle within the outer sleeve.

The deactivating component may be entirely formed of plastics material or may be formed of paperboard.

The first part of the two-part locking structure is optionally selected from the group comprising: a locking edge, an aperture, a cutout, a notch, a protrusion, and combinations thereof.

The second part of the two-part locking structure is optionally selected from the group comprising: of a protruding flap, an arc flap, a folded flap, an extension flap, a protruding bump, a protruding structure having an upper and a lower bumps wherein the upper bump releasably engages to the first locking structure, a protruding structure having a bump and a cut opening structure adjacent to the bump wherein the cut opening structure releasably engages to the locking edge, and a protruding structure having more than one bump.

The first part of the two part locking structure may be a locking edge and the second locking structure may be a locking tail flap configured to releasably engage with the locking edge.

The outer sleeve optionally further comprises a releasing structure substantially adjacent to the first locking structure, the releasing structure being selected from the group consisting of an opening flap or flexible tab, a perforated flap, a cut flap, and a cut structure.

According to yet another aspect if the first invention for which protection is sought, there is provided a method of deactivating or activating a package having a releasable locking feature, the method comprising: providing a package comprising: an outer sleeve including a first locking structure, a lockable receptacle lockably retained within the outer sleeve for sliding movement between a fully inserted position and an outwardly extended position, the lockable receptacle comprising a second locking structure configured to releasably engage with the first locking structure of the outer sleeve, a deactivating component removably associated with the outer sleeve, the deactivating component being configured to prevent the first locking structure of the outer sleeve from engaging with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle; associating the deactivating component with the outer sleeve to prevent the first locking structure of the outer sleeve from engaging with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle, such that the lockable receptacle is slidable to the outwardly extended position.

Another aspect relates to a packaging kit that includes a lockable receptacle having a second locking structure, an outer sleeve configured to receive the lockable receptacle and lockably retain the lockable receptacle within the outer sleeve for sliding movement between a fully inserted position and an outwardly extended position, the outer sleeve having a first locking structure configured to releasably engage with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle, and a deactivating component removably associated with the first locking structure of the outer sleeve. When the deactivating component associates with the outer sleeve, the first locking structure of the outer sleeve is prevented from engaging with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle such that the lockable receptacle is slidable to the outwardly extended position. When the deactivating component disassociates from the outer sleeve, the first locking structure of the outer sleeve engages with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle to prevent the slide movement of the lockable receptacle to the outwardly extended position.

According to an aspect of the second invention for which protection is sought, there is provided a package comprising a primary sleeve and an inner receptacle, the primary sleeve providing a cavity for the inner receptacle and having an open or openable end through which the inner receptacle is insertable and through which the inner receptacle is withdrawable, the package comprising a two-part locking mechanism for locking the inner receptacle within the cavity of the primary sleeve, the primary sleeve comprising a first part of the two-part locking mechanism and the inner receptacle comprising a second part of the two-part locking mechanism and the package comprising a secondary sleeve detachably attached to the primary sleeve by a frangible connection, which secondary sleeve is sized and arranged such that at least a portion of the primary sleeve is receivable within the secondary sleeve once the frangible connection is broken and the secondary sleeve is detached from the primary sleeve and is erected into a tubular form.

Optionally, the secondary sleeve is disposed in a folded flat-form when detachably attached to the primary sleeve, which flat-form of the secondary sleeve has a width that is equal to the width of the primary sleeve and wherein, once detached from the primary sleeve, the secondary sleeve is openable into a tubular form wherein the secondary sleeve has a cavity for the primary sleeve into which the primary sleeve can be inserted and from which the primary sleeve can be withdrawn.

Optionally, the primary sleeve comprises a release mechanism for the two-part locking mechanism and the secondary sleeve comprises a window for providing access to the release mechanism and/or the secondary sleeve comprises an auxiliary deactivation component for the two-part locking mechanism.

Optionally, the length of the secondary sleeve is equal to or less than the length of the primary sleeve.

The external width of the secondary sleeve in the erected tubular form may be sufficiently greater than the external width of the primary sleeve such that the primary sleeve is receivable within the secondary sleeve and such that the primary sleeve is held within the secondary sleeve by a friction fit.

The secondary sleeve may comprise a top panel, a first side panel, a bottom panel, a second side panel and a glue flap hinged one to the next in series, wherein the top panel is connected to the primary sleeve via said frangible connection and is coupled to the first side panel and wherein the bottom panel comprises a fold line formed such that a panel portion of the bottom panel is folded inwardly and into face contacting relationship with the first side panel and is disposed between the bottom panel and the top panel when the secondary sleeve is in its flat-form.

Optionally, the top panel of the secondary sleeve is disposed in flat face contacting relationship with a top panel of the primary sleeve when the secondary sleeve is attached to the primary sleeve and is disposed in a closed position.

Optionally, the second side panel of the secondary sleeve is disposed in a co-planar form with the bottom panel of the secondary sleeve when the secondary sleeve is in flat-form.

Optionally, the secondary sleeve comprises an auxiliary deactivation component for the two-part locking mechanism and wherein the deactivation component comprises a concealment defined by a cut out portion in either or both of the top panel and the bottom panel of the secondary sleeve. The concealment may be disposable in close proximity to the first part of the two-part locking mechanism in the primary sleeve such that the first part of the two-part locking mechanism is concealed and thereby prevented from engaging with the second-part of the two part locking mechanism and thereby the inner receptacle is at least partially withdrawable from the primary sleeve.

Optionally, the concealment is neighboured on each side by a recessed portion, such that the concealment is insertable through the release mechanism such that it can conceal the first part of the two part locking mechanism.

Optionally, the primary sleeve comprises one or more demarcated pressing zones and wherein the one or more demarcated pressing zones is configured and/or stylised and/or shaped and/or arranged to encourage a user to apply a force directed inwardly of the primary sleeve toward the cavity for deactivating the two-part locking mechanism to thereby release the inner receptacle for withdrawal of the inner receptacle at least partially from the primary sleeve. Except for said open or openable end, each other external surface of the primary sleeve may be free of a full-depth cut.

Optionally, the package comprises a single demarcated pressing zone, disposed on and/or within a top panel of the primary sleeve and wherein the demarcated pressing zone is for encouraging a user to apply a localised force and wherein the package is arranged such that a localised force applied in the region of said pressing zone causes disengagement of the two-part locking mechanism.

Optionally, each demarcated pressing zone may be: circular, irregular, square, rectangular, triangular, oval, elliptical or rounded in shape and/or is printed with graphical indicia to highlight the region where a user of the package should apply a force and/or comprises a physical formation selected from the group comprising: an embossment, a debossment, a groove, a compression, a half-depth cut, a raised button, a recessed button.

Preferably, the demarcated pressing zone does not overlap in super-position with a locking edge provided as the first part of the locking mechanism in the primary sleeve.

Each demarcated pressing zone may be positioned closer to a rear-end of the primary sleeve than the first part of the locking mechanism in the primary sleeve is.

Optionally, upon proper insertion of the inner receptacle within the cavity of the primary sleeve, the two-part locking mechanism is automatically activated and wherein the inner receptacle can be inserted into and withdrawn from the cavity via the open or openable end of the primary sleeve by deploying a release mechanism or by deactivating the first part of the locking mechanism.

Preferably, the first part of the locking mechanism is a projection or edge and wherein the second part of the locking mechanism is locking flap that can catch onto the projection or edge in order to lock the inner receptacle within the primary sleeve.

According to another aspect of the second invention for which protection is sought, there is provided a blank for forming a primary sleeve and a detachably connected secondary sleeve, the primary sleeve, once constructed from the blank being suitable for containing an inner receptacle and comprising a first part of a two-part locking mechanism for locking an inner receptacle within a cavity of the primary sleeve, the secondary sleeve being sized and arranged such that at least a portion of the primary sleeve is receivable within the secondary sleeve once the secondary sleeve is detached from the primary sleeve and is erected into a tubular form, the blank comprising a series of connected panels including: a primary sleeve inner top panel, a primary sleeve first side panel, a primary sleeve bottom panel, a primary sleeve second side panel, a primary sleeve outer top panel, a secondary sleeve top panel, a secondary sleeve first side panel, a secondary sleeve bottom panel, a secondary sleeve second side panel and a secondary sleeve glue flap, the primary sleeve outer top panel and secondary sleeve top panel being connected directly together along a frangible connection such that when formed, the secondary sleeve is detachably attached to the primary sleeve, and the secondary sleeve bottom panel comprising a fold line formed such that a panel portion of the secondary sleeve bottom panel is foldable inwardly and into face contacting relationship with the secondary sleeve first side panel and is foldable between the secondary sleeve bottom panel and the secondary sleeve top panel such that the secondary sleeve, in a flat-form, is formable from the blank, which secondary sleeve, in flat form has a width that is no greater than the width of the primary sleeve when formed from the blank.

Optionally, the primary sleeve comprises a release mechanism for the two-part locking mechanism and wherein the secondary sleeve comprises a window for providing access to the release mechanism and/or wherein the secondary sleeve comprises an auxiliary deactivation component for the two-part locking mechanism.

Optionally, one or more or all of the secondary sleeve panels comprise graphics which are not related to products contained in an inner receptacle to be held by the primary sleeve and wherein one or more or all of the primary sleeve panels comprise graphics that are related to products contained in an inner receptacle to be held by the primary sleeve.

Optionally, the secondary sleeve top panel and/or secondary sleeve bottom panel comprises an auxiliary deactivation component for the two-part locking mechanism and wherein the deactivation component comprises a concealment defined by a cut out portion in either or both of the top panel and the bottom panel of the secondary sleeve respectively.

The concealment may be neighboured on each side by a recessed portion, such that the concealment is insertable through the release mechanism such that it can conceal the first part of the two part locking mechanism.

Optionally, the primary sleeve outer top panel and/or primary sleeve bottom panel comprises one or more demarcated pressing zones and wherein the one or more demarcated pressing zones is configured and/or stylised and/or shaped and/or arranged to encourage a user to apply a force directed inwardly of the primary sleeve toward the cavity for deactivating the two-part locking mechanism to thereby release the inner receptacle for withdrawal of the inner receptacle at least partially from the primary sleeve.

Optionally, the maximum length of the secondary sleeve top panel and secondary sleeve bottom panel is equal to or less than the maximum length of the primary sleeve outer top panel and primary sleeve bottom panel.

Optionally, the maximum width of the secondary sleeve top panel and/or secondary sleeve bottom panel is greater than the maximum width of the primary sleeve outer top panel and/or primary sleeve bottom panel.

Within the scope of this application it is envisaged that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be taken independently or in any combination thereof. For example, features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is incompatibility of features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the first and second inventions will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1-1 shows a package according to one embodiment of the first invention including an outer sleeve, a lockable receptacle and an deactivating component;

FIG. 1-2 is a plain view of an outer sleeve blank according to one embodiment of the first invention;

FIGS. 1-3 to 1-5 are plain views of the outer sleeve blank of FIG. 1-2 being formed into an outer sleeve;

FIG. 1-6 is an isometric view of the lockable receptacle according to one embodiment of the first invention;

FIGS. 1-7 to 1-9 show steps of assembling the lockable receptacle and the outer sleeve of FIG. 1-1;

FIG. 1-10 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 10-10 in FIG. 1-9, of the package according to one embodiment without the deactivating component, wherein the first locking structure of the outer sleeve engages with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle to prevent the slide movement of the lockable receptacle to the outwardly extended position;

FIGS. 1-11 and 1-12 show steps of associating the deactivating component to the outer sleeve of FIG. 1-1;

FIG. 1-13 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 13-13 in FIG. 1-12, of the package according to one embodiment with the deactivating component associated with the outer sleeve, wherein the deactivating component prevents the first locking structure of the outer sleeve from engaging with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle;

FIG. 1-14 is a plain view taken from the interior of the outer sleeve of FIG. 1-13 showing the underside of top panel;

FIG. 1-15 is an isometric view of the deactivating component according to one embodiment;

FIG. 1-16 is a side view of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-15;

FIG. 1-17 is a plain bottom view of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-15;

FIGS. 1-18 and 1-19 show the association of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-15 to the outer sleeve;

FIG. 1-20 is a cross sectional view of the package of FIG. 1-19, taken along line 20-20 in FIG. 1-19;

FIG. 1-21 is a view taken from the interior of the outer sleeve of FIG. 1-20 showing the underside of top panel;

FIG. 1-22 is a plan view of a blank for forming a deactivating component according to another embodiment of the first invention;

FIG. 1-23 is a plan view from above of a deactivating component formed from the blank of FIG. 1-22;

FIGS. 1-24 and 1-25 show the association of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-25 to an outer sleeve;

FIG. 1-26 shows a cross-sectional view of an outer sleeve containing a lockable receptacle in a locked position and shows the placement of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-25 into the outer sleeve;

FIG. 1-27 shows a cross-sectional view of an outer sleeve containing a lockable receptacle in a released or unlocked position and shows the placement of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-25 completely into the outer sleeve such that a concealment of the deactivating component is obscuring a first-part of a two-part locking structure to deactivate that locking structure;

FIG. 1-28 is a plan view of a blank for forming a deactivating component according to yet another embodiment of the first invention;

FIG. 1-29 is a plan view from above of a part-formed deactivating component being constructed from the blank of FIG. 1-28;

FIG. 1-30 is a perspective view from above of a deactivating component formed from the blank of FIG. 1-28;

FIGS. 1-31 and 1-32 show the association of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-30 to an outer sleeve;

FIG. 1-33 shows a cross-sectional view of an outer sleeve containing a lockable receptacle in a released or unlocked position and shows the placement of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-30 completely into the outer sleeve such that a concealment of the deactivating component is obscuring a first-part of a two-part locking structure to deactivate that locking structure;

FIG. 1-34 shows a cross-sectional view of the outer sleeve of FIG. 1-33 wherein the lockable receptacle has been partial withdrawn from the outer sleeve;

FIG. 1-35 is a plan view from above of a deactivating component according to an even further embodiment of the first invention;

FIG. 1-36 is a perspective view from above of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-35;

FIG. 1-37 shows the association of the deactivating component of FIGS. 1-35 and 1-36 to an outer sleeve;

FIG. 1-38 shows a cross-sectional view of an outer sleeve containing a lockable receptacle in a released or unlocked position and shows the placement of the deactivating component of FIGS. 1-35 and 1-36 completely into the outer sleeve such that a concealment of the deactivating component is obscuring a first-part of a two-part locking structure to deactivate that locking structure;

FIG. 1-39 shows a cross-sectional view of the outer sleeve of FIG. 1-38 wherein the lockable receptacle has been partial withdrawn from the outer sleeve;

FIG. 1-40 is a plan view of a blank for forming a deactivating component according to yet another embodiment of the first invention;

FIG. 1-41 is a perspective view from an end of a fully-erected deactivating component formed from the blank of FIG. 1-40;

FIG. 1-42 shows the association of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-41 to an outer sleeve;

FIG. 1-43 is a perspective view from above of a deactivating component according to an even further embodiment of the first invention;

FIG. 1-44 shows the association of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-43 to an outer sleeve;

FIG. 1-45 is a plan view of a blank for forming a deactivating component according to a still further embodiment of the first invention;

FIG. 1-46 is a plan view of a blank for forming a deactivating component according to a still further embodiment of the first invention;

FIG. 2-1 is a plan view of a blank of foldable sheet material for forming a primary sleeve and a detachably attached secondary sleeve according to a first embodiment of the second invention;

FIG. 2-2A is a perspective view of an optional lockable receptacle that may be inserted and locked within the primary sleeve formed from part of the blank of FIG. 2-1;

FIG. 2-2B is a perspective view of a package comprising a secondary sleeve formed from the blank of FIG. 2-1, shown substantially in its flat-form and shown attached to a primary sleeve that has been erected from the same blank of FIG. 2-1 and is shown in its tubular erect form;

FIG. 2-3 is a cross-sectional view of part of the lockable receptacle of FIG. 2-2A shown in an inserted and locked position within part of the primary sleeve formed from part of the blank of FIG. 2-1 inserted within part of the secondary sleeve also formed from part of the blank of FIG. 2-1;

FIG. 2-4 is a plan view of a blank of foldable sheet material for forming a primary sleeve and a detachably attached secondary sleeve according to a second embodiment of the second invention wherein a top panel of the secondary sleeve comprises a window for providing access to a release mechanism formed within the primary sleeve;

FIG. 2-5A is a cross-sectional view of part of a lockable receptacle (such as that of FIG. 2-2A) shown in an inserted and locked position within part of the primary sleeve formed from part of the blank of FIG. 2-4;

FIG. 2-5B is a cross-sectional view of part of a lockable receptacle (such as that of FIG. 2-2A) shown in an inserted and locked position within part of the primary sleeve formed from part of the blank of FIG. 2-4 which is in turn disposed within the secondary sleeve formed from part of the blank of FIG. 2-4;

FIG. 2-6A is a perspective view of a secondary sleeve formed from the blank of FIG. 2-4, shown substantially in its flat-form and shown attached to a primary sleeve that has been erected from the same blank of FIG. 2-4;

FIG. 2-6B is a perspective view of the secondary sleeve of FIG. 2-6A being detached from the primary sleeve of FIG. 2-6A;

FIG. 2-7A is a perspective view of a secondary sleeve formed from the blank of FIG. 2-4, shown substantially in its erect tubular form, detached from the primary sleeve and shown ready for receiving the primary sleeve;

FIG. 2-7B is a perspective view of a package comprising the detached tubular secondary sleeve of FIG. 2-7A comprising the primary sleeve of FIG. 2-7A which contains a lockable receptacle such as that shown in FIG. 2-2A;

FIG. 2-8 is a plan view of a blank of foldable sheet material for forming a primary sleeve and a detachably attached secondary sleeve according to a third embodiment of the second invention wherein the secondary sleeve is a short-length sleeve and comprises a deactivation component for deactivating a first part of a two part locking mechanism, which first part is formed in the primary sleeve;

FIG. 2-9A is a perspective view of a detached tubular secondary sleeve formed from the blank of FIG. 2-8 comprising the deactivation component being positioned such that a portion of the primary sleeve is disposed within the secondary sleeve and is being relatively aligned such that the deactivation component will be correctly positioned for its effective use;

FIG. 2-9B is a cross-sectional view of a detached tubular secondary sleeve formed from the blank of FIG. 2-8 comprising the deactivation component being positioned such that a portion of the primary sleeve is disposed within the secondary sleeve and such that the deactivation component is correctly inserted into a release mechanism of the primary sleeve for its effective use at deactivating the two-part locking mechanism such that a lockable receptacle is at least partially withdrawable from the primary sleeve; and

FIG. 2-10 is a plan view of a blank of foldable sheet material for forming a primary sleeve and a detachably attached full-length secondary sleeve according to a fourth embodiment of the second invention wherein the secondary sleeve comprises a deactivation component for deactivating a first part of a two part locking mechanism, which first part is formed in the primary sleeve.

FIG. 2-11 is a plan view of a blank of foldable sheet material for forming a primary sleeve and a secondary sleeve, according to a fifth embodiment of the second invention, wherein the secondary sleeve is detachably attached along the longitudinal edge of the outer top panel of the primary sleeve wherein the secondary sleeve is a short-length sleeve and comprises a deactivation component for deactivating a first part of a two part locking mechanism, the first part being formed in the primary sleeve.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present inventions now will be described more fully hereinafter, but not all embodiments of the inventions are shown. While the inventions has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the inventions. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the inventions without departing from the essential scope thereof.

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the primary sleeves, secondary sleeves, lockable receptacles, packages and blanks are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the present inventions can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the inventions may be embodied. Indeed, it will be understood that the primary sleeves, secondary sleeves, lockable receptacles, packages and blanks described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present inventions. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the inventions.

In addition, the description provided herein may not describe all structures of the disclosed packages or packaging kits, or a complete process or method of deactivating or activating the package. Only those process acts and structures necessary to understand the embodiments of the present inventions are described in detail below.

The drawings accompanying the application are for illustrative purposes only, and are thus not necessarily drawn to scale. Elements common between figures may retain the same numerical designation.

As used herein, any relational terms, such as “first”, “second”, “upper”, “lower”, “top” and “bottom,” are used for clarity and convenience in understanding the present inventions and accompanying drawings and does not connote or depend on any specific preference, orientation or order. It is understood that although these terms “first”, “second”, “upper”, “lower”, “top” and “bottom” are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.

As used herein, the term “substantially,” in reference to a given parameter, property or condition, means to a degree that one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the given parameter, property, or condition is met with a small degree of variance, such as within acceptable manufacturing tolerances.

In one embodiment of the present inventions, the package may include an outer sleeve having a first part of a two-part locking structure, a lockable receptacle having a second part of the two part locking structure and lockably retained within the outer sleeve for sliding movement between a fully inserted position and an outwardly extended position, and a deactivating component removably associated with the first part of the two-part locking structure of the outer sleeve. When the deactivating component disassociates from the outer sleeve, the first part of the locking structure of the outer sleeve engages with the second part of the locking structure of the lockable receptacle to prevent the sliding movement of the lockable receptacle to the outwardly extended position. When the deactivating component associates with the outer sleeve, the first part of the locking structure is prevented from engaging with the second part of the locking structure of the lockable receptacle such that the lockable receptacle is slidable to the outwardly extended position.

The lockable receptacle includes at least one compartment to receive a product. In some embodiments, the lockable receptacle may have one compartment to receive product. In some embodiments, the lockable receptacle may have a plurality of compartments to receive products. A non-limiting example of such a lockable receptacle with a plurality of compartments may be a lockable card similar to typical blister package available on the market and may be made from any materials known to the art for blister packages. The lockable receptacle may include a pliable sheet material, such as plastic, into which one or more cavities are formed. The cavities are loaded with products and may be sealed with one or more layers of sheet material, such as aluminum or paperboard.

The outer sleeve may be formed from any known substrate including, but not limited to, paperboard and plastic. In some embodiments, the outer sleeve may be formed from a blank comprising paperboard. Non-limiting examples of suitable paperboard may include solid bleached sulphate (SBS), solid unbleached sulphate (SUS), or clay-coated newsback (CCNB). The paperboard may be coated or uncoated. In some embodiments, the paperboard may have clay coated on one side of the surface (CIS). In some embodiments, the paperboard may have clay coated on both sides of the surface (C2S). Various minerals may be used to coat the paperboard surface. Non-limiting examples may include clay, calcium carbonate, or titanium dioxide. The paperboard may be subjected to densification and polishing by calendaring finishes the mineral coated surface to achieve a higher degree of smoothness and superior graphic print surface. Although the drawings show the outer sleeve are formed from one piece of substrate blank, it is understood that the outer sleeve may be formed, folded or assembled from one or more pieces of material.

The deactivating component may be of any structure configured to releasably associate with the outer sleeve and prevent the first locking structure of the outer sleeve from engaging with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle.

The outer sleeve may further include a releasing structure substantially adjacent to the first part of the two-part locking structure. The releasing structure may be any structure on the outer sleeve facilitating the association of the deactivating component to the outer sleeve.

When desired, the outer sleeve may further include a lockable receptacle retaining structure configured to engage with the second part of the two-part locking structure of the lockable receptacle to prevent a complete separation of the lockable receptacle and the outer sleeve when the lockable receptacle is in the outwardly extended position.

Reference is now made to the accompanying Figures for the purpose of describing, in detail, preferred and exemplary embodiments of the present inventions. The Figures and detailed description are provided to describe and illustrate examples in which the disclosed package and its parts may be made and used, and are not intended to limit the scope thereof. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the disclosed containers can be used to store a variety of products. More specifically, the disclosed lockable receptacles can be used for the storage of products, such as for example, smokeless tobacco, cigarettes, confectionary, cigarettes, tea bags or any product stored in a pouch, mints, and the like without departing from the inventive aspects of the present inventions.

FIG. 1-1 shows one embodiment of the package of the first invention. The package includes an outer sleeve 200 having a releasing structure 211, a lockable receptacle 300, and a deactivating component 400 removably associated with the outer sleeve 200.

FIG. 1-2 shows one embodiment of a blank 500 suitable for forming the outer sleeve 200. Blank 500 may include a first auxiliary panel 510, a second auxiliary panel 560, a bottom 520, a top panel 530, a side panel 540 hingedly connected to the panels 560 and 520, a side panel 550 hingedly connected to the panels 520 and 530, extension panels 570a and 570b, cutout area 511 on the first auxiliary panel 510, cutout area 561 on the second auxiliary panel 560, cutout areas 512, 522, 532 and 562, nodes 513 and 563, end panels 580a and 580b, and a releasing structure 211. Cutouts may be constructed by any suitable cutting technique. The releasing structure 211 may be cut within the top panel 530 by any conventional technique. As used herein, the term “cutout structure” means and includes aperture, notch, cut structure, or perforated portion.

In FIG. 1-3, the first auxiliary panel 510 may be folded backward and behind the second auxiliary panel 560, and it may be adhesively attached to the second auxiliary panel 560 by any conventional technique. The extension panels 570a and 570b may be folded over the second auxiliary panel 560 and the bottom 520, respectively. Then, auxiliary panel 510/560 may be folded over the bottom panel 520 as denoted by arrow A30 in FIG. 1-3 and shown in FIG. 1-4. Then, the top panel 530 may be fold, as shown in FIG. 1-5, over the auxiliary panel 510/560 to provide an outer sleeve 200.

FIG. 1-5 shows one embodiment of the first part of the two-part locking structure of the outer sleeve 200, wherein the first locking structure includes a locking edge formed from the edges of cutout structures 511/561 (as shown in FIG. 1-10). It is understood that the first part of the locking structure may have other structures than the locking edge formed from the edges of cutout structures 511/561 as shown in FIG. 1-5. One of ordinary skill in the art can readily modify the first part of the locking structure without departing from the concept of the first invention. Non-limiting examples of such locking edge structure may include an aperture, a cutout, a notch, or a protrusion, as examples.

FIG. 1-5 shows one embodiment of the releasing structure of the outer sleeve 200, wherein the releasing structure includes a cut structure 211. It is understood that the releasing structure may have other structures than that shown in FIG. 1-5, and one of ordinary skill in the art can readily modify the releasing structure without departing from the concept of the first invention. The releasing structure may be any structure to facilitate the depression of the nodes 513/563 for releasing a lockable receptacle 300 from locking engagement with the outer sleeve 200. Additionally, the releasing structure, in part at least may facilitate the association of the deactivating component 400 to the outer sleeve 200. Non-limiting examples of the releasing structure may include an opening flap, a perforated flap, a cut flap, or a cut structure. In other envisaged embodiments, access to the first part of the two-part locking structure may be provided in the outer sleeve that is not associated directly with the release mechanism which is nevertheless suitable for insertion of the deactivating component 400 internally of the outer sleeve for interfering with the normal locking engagement of the first and second parts of the two-part locking structure.

FIG. 1-6 shows one embodiment of the lockable receptacle 300 suitable for use in the first invention. The lockable receptacle 300 may include a main panel 330 having at least one compartment 320 to receive a product, a retention panel 310 (also referred to as a locking tail flap) hingedly connected to the main panel 330 at a fold line 340, and optionally a plurality of auxiliary structures 350a, 350b and 350b′ adjacent to the fold line 340. As shown in FIG. 1-6, the retention panel (locking tail flap) 310 may be folded backward toward the main panel 330 along a fold line 340.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1-6, the second part of the locking structure is the retention panel 310 that may engage with the first part of the locking structure 511/561 of the outer sleeve 300. It is understood that the second part of the two-part locking structure may have other structures than that shown in FIG. 1-6, and one of ordinary skill in the art can readily modify the second locking structure without departing from the concept of the first invention.

In one embodiment, the first part of the locking structure may be a locking edge and the second part of the locking structure may be any structure capable of releasably engaging to the locking edge. Non-limiting examples of the second locking structure may include a protruding flap, an “arc flap”, a folded flap, an extension flap, a protruding bump, a protruding structure having an upper bump and a lower bump wherein the upper bump releasably engages to the locking edge, a protruding structure having a bump and an cut opening structure adjacent to the bump wherein the cut opening structure releasably engages to the locking edge.

The lockable receptacle 300 may include at least one compartment on the main panel 330 to receive a product. In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 1-6, the lockable receptacle 300 may include a plurality of unit dose dispensing structures 320 on the main panel 330. The lockable receptacle 300 of FIG. 1-6 may be used for unit dose packaging applications of healthcare products, such as medications. In some embodiments, the lockable receptacle 300 may include only one compartment for receiving a product, which may be used for the security packaging applications.

In one embodiment, the lockable receptacle 300 may be assembled to the outer sleeve 200 as shown in FIGS. 1-7 1-9 by inserting the lockable receptacle 300 into an interior of the outer sleeve 200. As shown, the lockable receptacle 300 may be retained within the outer sleeve 200 for sliding movement between an outwardly extended position (as shown FIG. 1-8) and a fully inserted position (as shown FIG. 1-9).

FIG. 1-10 is a cross sectional view of the assembled structure of the lockable receptacle 300 and the outer sleeve 200, taken along line 10-10 in FIG. 1-9. The cutout structures 511 and 561 on the first and second auxiliary panels (510, 560) of the outer sleeve 200 may form a recess R and a locking edge structure E, wherein the locking edge structure E functions as the first-part of the two-part locking structure of the outer sleeve 200. The releasing structure 211 on the top panel 530 of the outer sleeve 200 may substantially cover the locking edge structure E to prevent an inadvertent access of the locking edge structure E. The retention panel 310 of the lockable receptacle has a free end L, and may function as the second-part of the two-part locking structure. The free end L of the retention panel 310 may be received within a recess R defined in part by the cutouts (511, 561) on the first and second auxiliary panels (510, 560). The recess R may form a catch mechanism for locking the lockable receptacle 300 within the outer sleeve 200. The free end L of the retention tab 310 may engage with cut edge structure E (i.e., locking edge) defined by the edges of cutouts 511/561 on the first and/or second auxiliary panels 510/560. In this way, the lockable receptacle 300 is locked securely within the outer sleeve 200. The lockable receptacle 300 may be released from the outer sleeve 200 by stimulating (e.g., pressing) the releasing structure 211 so as to displace the retention panel 310 out of the recess R.

It is understood that FIG. 1-10 shows one embodiment of the first part and second part of the two-part locking structure and it is not intended to be limited. One of ordinary skill in the art can readily modify the first and second locking structures without departing from the concept of the first invention. Other known releasable locking structures may be used provided that the first part of the two-part locking structure is configured to releasably engage with the second-part of the locking structures. For example, when the first part of the two-part locking structure on the outer sleeve 200 is a locking edge E, the second part of the locking structure on the lockable receptacle 300 may be any of the following structures: a protruding flap, an “arc flap”, a folded flap, an extension flap, a protruding bump, a protruding structure having more than one bumps, a protruding structure having an upper and a lower bumps wherein the upper bump releasably engages to the locking edge, a protruding structure having a bump and an cut opening structure adjacent to the bump wherein the cut opening structure releasably engages to the locking edge, etc.

FIGS. 1-11 and 1-12 show one embodiment of associating the deactivating component 400 to the outer sleeve 200. As shown in FIG. 1-11, the deactivating component 400 may include a first anchoring portion 401 and a second concealment of interfering portion 402 connected or coupled to the first portion 401, wherein the second portion 402 may be inserted through the releasing structure 211 on the top panel 530 and into the interior of the outer sleeve 200 while the first portion 401 rests on the top panel 530. In FIG. 1-12, the deactivating component 400 completely associates with the outer sleeve 200.

FIG. 1-13 is a cross sectional view of the package of FIG. 1-12, taken along line 13-13 in FIG. 1-12. FIG. 1-14 is a view taken from the interior of the outer sleeve 200 showing the underside of top panel 530. As shown, the second concealment portion 402 of the deactivating component 400 has been inserted through the releasing structure 211 on the top panel 530 and internally of the outer sleeve 200, while the first anchoring portion 401 of the deactivating component 400 rests on the top panel 530. The second portion 402 of the deactivating component 400 may partially cover, conceal or otherwise interfere with the locking edge E (i.e., first part of the two-part locking structure) of the outer sleeve 200, such that the recess R is prevented from receiving the free end L of the retention panel 310 (i.e., second part of the two-part locking structure 310) of the lockable receptacle 300. Since the second part of the locking structure 310 of the lockable receptacle 300 is prevented from engaging with the first part of the locking structure 511/561 of the outer sleeve 200, the lockable receptacle 300 is no longer locked within the cavity of the outer shell 300 and may be slid to the outwardly extended position.

FIGS. 1-15 to 1-18 show another embodiment of the deactivating component. The deactivating component 400′ includes an upper tab 401′ with a bumpy/roughened surface 403′ to facilitate handling of the anchoring portion of the deactivating component 400′ by a user's finger, and a lower tab 402′ having a greater length than the upper tab 401′ and tapered to the free end 404′ to facilitate insertion into the outer sleeve 200. The thickness of the lower tab 402′ optionally reduces in the direction of the taper such that the free end 404′ is of narrowest thickness and narrowest width. This facilitates insertion of the deactivating component 400′ internally of the outer shell 200 (see FIGS. 1-16 and 1-17).

FIGS. 1-18 and 1-19 show the association of the deactivating component 400′ to the outer sleeve 200. As shown in FIG. 1-18, the second portion 402′ of the deactivating component 400′ may be inserted through the releasing structure 211 on the top panel 530 into the interior of the outer sleeve 200 while the first portion 401′ rests on the top panel 530. In FIG. 1-19, the deactivating component 400′ completely associates with the outer sleeve 200.

FIG. 1-20 is a cross sectional view of the package of FIG. 1-19, taken along line 20-20 in FIG. 1-19. FIG. 1-21 is a view taken from the interior of the outer sleeve 200 showing the underside of top panel 530. As shown, the second portion 402′ of the deactivating component 400′ may be inserted through the releasing structure 211 on the top panel 530 into the interior of the outer sleeve 200 while the first portion 401′ rests on the top panel 530. The second concealment portion 402′ of the deactivating component 400′ may partially cover the locking edge E (i.e., first part of the locking structure) of the outer sleeve 200, such that the recess R is prevented from receiving the free end L of the retention panel 310 (i.e., second part of the locking structure) of the lockable receptacle 300. Since the second part of the locking structure 310 of the lockable receptacle 300 is prevented from engaging with the first part of the locking structure (R, 511/561) of the outer sleeve 200, the lockable receptacle 300 may be slid to the outwardly extended position.

In one embodiment of the first invention, a method of deactivating or activating a package with releasable locking feature may include associating the deactivating component with the outer sleeve of the disclosed package to prevent the first locking structure of the outer sleeve from engaging with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle, such that the lockable receptacle is slidable to the outwardly extended position. The method may further include disassociating the deactivating component from the outer sleeve of the disclosed package, such that the first locking structure of the outer sleeve engages with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle to prevent the lockable receptacle from being slid outwardly from the outer sleeve.

In one embodiment of the first invention, a packaging kit may include a lockable receptacle having a second locking structure, an outer sleeve configured to receive the lockable receptacle and lockably retain the lockable receptacle within the outer sleeve for sliding movement between a fully inserted position and an outwardly extended position, the outer sleeve having a first locking structure configured to releasably engage with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle, and a deactivating component removably associated with the first locking structure of the outer sleeve. When the deactivating component associates with the outer sleeve, the first locking structure of the outer sleeve is prevented from engaging with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle such that the lockable receptacle is slidable to the outwardly extended position. When the deactivating component disassociates from the outer sleeve, the first locking structure of the outer sleeve engages with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle to prevent the slide movement of the lockable receptacle to the outwardly extended position.

In one embodiment of the disclosed packaging kit, the outer sleeve may further include a releasing structure substantially adjacent to the first locking structure. The releasing structure may be any structure on the outer sleeve facilitating the association of the deactivating component to the outer sleeve.

In one embodiment of the disclosed packaging kit, the outer sleeve may further include a lockable receptacle retaining structure configured to engage with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle to prevent a complete separation of the lockable receptacle and the outer sleeve when the lockable receptacle is in the outwardly extended position.

The deactivation component is insertable therein and shaped sized and configured to conceal the locking edge 272 of the two-part locking structure.

The secondary sleeve 292 in flat form is folded similarly to that described above. The secondary sleeve is also detachably attached to the primary sleeve 190, but in this embodiment, optionally, the third flap 36 is not provided and only a single detachable attachment 250 is provided between the primary 290 and secondary sleeves 294. Additionally, temporary adhesive may be used to reinforce the detachable attachment of the secondary sleeve in flat-form 292 to the primary sleeve 290.

Additional optional and exemplary embodiments of deactivating component are now described with reference to FIGS. 1-22 to 1-46, wherein like reference numerals are used where possible, albeit with the addition of “600”, “700”, “800”, “900”, “1000” and “1100”. For the conciseness of description only differences are described in detail.

In FIG. 1-22 a plan view of a blank 610 is shown. The blank 610 is for forming a two-ply deactivating component 600, which is shown in plan view in FIG. 1-23. The word “PRESS” is written on an anchoring portion 614/612 for illustrative and non-limiting purposes. The deactivating component 600 may be decorated or printed with any desired indicia and graphics, text and colors or it may be plain and is not limited in its appearance to that illustrated. Optionally, the deactivating component 600 is a two-ply structure to add to its strength. A single ply of thicker material may also be used to achieve the same benefit.

As shown in FIG. 1-22, the blank 610 comprises a pair of head or anchoring panels 612, 614 hinged along a fold line 616 and a pair of concealment panels 602a, 602b. Folding about fold line 616 brings the two halves of the blank 610 together which are secured together by any suitable method such as the use of hot melt adhesive. The deactivating component 600 having a flattish form and being to some extent flexible is thereby formed.

The concealment portion 602a/602b is shaped such that it tapers toward a free, blunt, end which end is optionally sized to facilitate its insertion internally of an outer sleeve 200 through a release mechanism 211 or other suitable slot provided thereon proximate to the first part 511/561 of the two-part locking structure. The insertion of the deactivating component 600 internally of an outer sleeve 200 is illustrated in FIGS. 1-24 to 1-27. At its opposite (non-free) end the concealment portion 602a/602b (also indicated as 602) comprises two shoulder portions 618a, 618b which can be pushed past at least part of the top wall 560/530/510 of the outer sleeve 200 to serve to temporarily latch the deactivating component 600 to the outer sleeve 200.

As can be seen in FIG. 1-23, the deactivating component 600 is inwardly recessed and shaped between the anchoring portion 614/612 and the concealment portion 602a/602b to limit the extent to which the deactivating component 600 is insertable internally of the outer sleeve 200. The anchoring portion 614/612 can then be grasped by a user to control the use of the deactivating component 600 and to ensure that it does not become “lost” within the outer sleeve 200. The deactivating component 600 is generally tee-shaped, wherein a head of the tee defines the anchoring portion 612/614 and wherein a leg of the tee defines the concealment portion 602.

Being formed from a flexible material, the concealment 602 bends underneath the locking edge or locking recess 561/511 formed in the outer shell 200 and thereby interferes with the normal operation of the two-part locking structure and prevents the locking tail flap 310 from engaging with the locking edge 511/561. In this way, when the deactivating component 600 is disposed with the anchoring portion 602 internally of the outer sleeve 200, the child-resistant locking feature is deactivated in a senior friendly way and the lockable receptacle 300 can be withdrawn (as is shown in FIG. 27).

Referring now to FIGS. 1-28 to 1-34, there is shown yet another embodiment of deactivating component 700 according to the first invention. A blank 710 for forming the deactivating component is shown in FIG. 1-28 and a step in its construction is shown in FIG. 1-29. The deactivating component 700 is formed as a substantially tubular structure and the concealment 702 and anchoring portion are integrally formed from the same sheet of foldable and to some extent flexible material, such as paperboard.

The deactivating component 700 is formed as a secondary sleeve comprising: a secondary sleeve top panel 712, a secondary sleeve bottom panel 716 and secondary sleeve first and second side panels 718, 714 interconnecting and spacing the secondary sleeve top and bottom panels 712, 716. Optionally, the secondary sleeve top panel 712, secondary sleeve bottom panel 716 and secondary sleeve first and second side panels 718, 714 and a glue flap 715 are hinged one to the next in series by fold lines 719, 713, 711 and 717 as is shown in FIG. 1-28. An optional reinforcement panel 712b is hinged along a fold line 701 to the secondary sleeve top panel 712 for optionally forming a two-ply concealment 702a/702b. Obviously, such a two-ply concealment portion 702 is formed by folding the reinforcement panel 712b about the fold line 711 into face-contacting arrangement with the underside (or inside surface) of the top panel 712. The sleeve is formed by folding the panels into a tubular arrangement and by using the glue flap 715 to secure the structure together. Alternatively, the glue flap 715 may be replaced by a locking tab of a sliding engaging-type locking mechanism. In such an alternative embodiment, the bottom panel 716 is provided with an associating locking slit for receiving and engaging the locking tab. Such a locking mechanism is described later more specifically with reference to FIG. 1-45 more specifically.

The deactivating component 700 in its erect tubular form is shown in FIG. 1-30. It can be seen that the concealment portion 702 is formed as a shaped projection extending contiguously from the secondary sleeve top panel 712 and reinforcement panel 712b. The remainder of the secondary sleeve top panel 712, reinforcement panel 712b, secondary sleeve bottom panel 716 and secondary sleeve first and second side panels 718, 714 essentially together form the anchoring portion of the deactivating component 700.

The deactivating component 700 has an external width that is sufficiently greater than an external width of the outer sleeve 200 such that the outer sleeve 200 is at least partially receivable within the secondary sleeve 700 and such that the secondary sleeve 700 is thereby attachable to the outer sleeve 200 by being slid onto it and being held by a friction fit. This is illustrated in FIGS. 1-31 and 1-32. It can also be seen that the anchoring portion is wider than the outer sleeve 200 and wider than the concealment portion 702. Conveniently, the sleeve structure allows the deactivating component 700 to be kept with the outer sleeve if required, whether in use or not. When not in use, it can be slid onto the outer sleeve 200 at the front end of the outer sleeve 200.

An edge of the secondary sleeve top panel 712/712b from which the concealment portion 702 is formed as a shaped projection is shaped either side of the concealment portion 702 to limit the extent to which the deactivating component is insertable internally of the outer sleeve. As can be seen in FIGS. 1-30 and 1-31 the blunt or straight edges catch against the slightly lifted edge of the release mechanism 211 that is lifted because of the concealment 702 being inserted into the outer shell 200.

As described, the deactivation component 700 comprises a concealment 702 which is a shaped projection, sized and shaped and configured such that it can be fitted into the slot formed by the cut end of the deflectable release tab 211. The secondary sleeve structure of the deactivating component 700 is shaped and sized such that once disposed upon the outer sleeve 200, the secondary sleeve first and second side panels 714, 718 abut the outer sleeve first and second side panels 540, 550 and in this way, at least the transverse or lateral positioning of the concealment 702 is controlled to ensure its registry with the release mechanism 211. By sliding the secondary sleeve 700 onto the primary sleeve 200 from the rear end of the outer sleeve 200 (see FIG. 1-31) the automatic positioning and registration of the concealment 702 is achieved.

It can be clearly seen in FIGS. 1-33 and 1-34 that the concealment 702 lays beneath the locking edge 511/561. This causes bending of the secondary sleeve top panel 712/712b above—below and then above the plane of the outer shell 200 top panels 510, 560, 530. This may cause the concealment 702 to be tensioned or biased towards the outer shell 200 top walls 510, 560, 530 and as such the concealment 702 may fit relatively tightly against the underside of the outer shell 200 top walls 510, 560, 530. The locking tail flap 310′ of a lockable receptacle 300′ can easily pass there beneath and is released by deactivation, by the concealment 702, of the first part of the two-part locking structure.

In envisaged embodiments, the secondary sleeve may be a full length sleeve and the concealment may be defined by an aperture rather than by a cut edge due to its being formed within a panel of material rather than at an edge thereof.

It should also be envisaged that the secondary sleeve 700 of this embodiment may have its flat end (i.e., the end defined by the longitudinal straight edge as viewed in FIG. 1-29) closed by an end closure wall. Such an end closure wall may be constructed from one or more flaps hingedly connected to the longitudinal straight edge as viewed in FIG. 1-29. For example, the reinforcing panel 712b may be replaced by an end closure flap hinged to the top panel 712 along the fold line 701. Such an end closure flap may be accompanied by a hinged glue tab designed to be secured to the inside or outside surface of the bottom panel 716. Alternatively, the bottom panel may be provided with another end closure flap to be secured to either the inside or outside surface of the end closure flap which is hinged to the top panel 712. Such an end closure wall makes it easier to control the positioning of the concealment portion 702 with respect to the release mechanism 211 during the inserting process of the concealing portion 702.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-35 to 1-39, there is shown yet a further illustrated embodiment of a deactivating component 800, which is formed from a single piece of flexible plastics material which is optionally a transparent material. The deactivating component 800 is planar or flat and to some extent flexible. The concealment 802 is formed in the substantially flat flexible panel and is defined by a substantially “U”-shaped aperture 803 within said flexible panel. The remainder of the flexible panel provides the anchoring portion (not numbered).

The deactivating component 800 is optionally, substantially square-shaped, optionally with rounded corners and has a width and length that are less than the width and length of the outer shell 200. As with the previous embodiments, the concealment is sized and configured to be inserted through the release mechanism 211, internally of the outer shell 200 to bend beneath the first part 511/561 of the two-part locking structure to interfere with the normal operation of the two-part locking structure and to thereby deactivate it. This is illustrated in FIGS. 1-38 and 1-39, wherein it can also be seen that the anchoring portion of the flexible panel 800 may also bend to facilitate the insertion of the deactivating component.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-40 to 1-42, there is shown a further embodiment of deactivating component 900 according to the first invention. A blank 910 for forming a deactivating component is shown in FIG. 1-40 and the deactivated component 900 formed from the blank 910 is shown in FIG. 1-41. Similarly to the deactivating component 700, the deactivating component 900 is also formed from a foldable sheet material and erected as a substantially tubular secondary sleeve; however the concealment 902 is different from that of the deactivating component 700.

The basic structure of the deactivating component 900 is similar, if not identical, to that of the deactivating component 700, and therefore the detailed description of the basic structure is omitted. It can be seen in FIG. 1-40 that the concealment portion 902 is formed as a shaped projection extending from the top panel 912. However, the concealment portion 902 is hingedly connected to the top panel 912 along a fold line 920. In an erected tubular form, the concealment portion 920 is folded about the fold line 920 into the tubular structure (or anchoring portion) as shown in FIG. 1-41. This deactivating component 900 may be slid onto an outer sleeve of a lockable package such as the outer sleeve 200 from either open end 592 or closed end 590 of the outer sleeve 200. FIG. 1-42 shows the deactivating component 900 having been slid onto the outer sleeve 200. When slid onto the outer sleeve 200, the free end of the concealment portion 902 is lightly pressed against the outside surface of the outer sleeve top panel 530 due to the natural resiliency of the paperboard or other foldable sheet material from which the component 900 is made. For that reason, while moved along the top panel 530 toward the release mechanism 211, the free end of the concealment portion 902 can automatically catch the U-shaped slit of the release mechanism 211 as soon as it is aligned with the release mechanism 211. As soon as aligned with the release mechanism 211, the component 900 is moved in the direction indicated by the arrow 922 regardless of which end of the outer sleeve 200 was the starting point of the sliding movement of the component 900. By such movement in the direction of the arrow 922, the concealment portion 902 is inserted into the outer sleeve 200 beneath the locking edge 511/561 to deactivate the locking mechanism of the lockable package.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-43 and 1-44, there is shown yet a further embodiment of a deactivating component. The deactivating component of FIGS. 1-43 and 1-44 are substantially the same as the deactivating component 800 except a fold line 805 along which the concealment portion 802 is foldably connected to the remainder of the deactivating component 800, i.e., the substantially rectangular frame. In use, the concealment portion 802 is folded about the fold line 805 away from the aperture 803 to take an angled position with respect to the remainder of the component 800. The angle between the concealment portion 802 and the adjacent portion of the rectangular frame is less than 90 degrees and optionally less than 60 degrees such that the free end of the concealment portion 802 is directed away from the portion of the rectangular frame located across the aperture 803 from the fold line 805. Because the component 800 is formed from a single piece of flexible plastics material which may be subject to plastic deformation, the folding of the portion 802 over 90 degrees may bring the plastic material outside its elastic limit and thus such folding may result in the portion 802 held in the folded position. The folded portion 802 may be pressed against the outside surface of the outer sleeve 200 and moved there along in the direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 1-44. As soon as, aligned with the release mechanism, the portion 802 will catch the U-shaped slit of the release mechanism. Therefore, further movement of the component 800 in the direction of the arrow allows the portion 802 to be inserted into the slit to deactivate the locking mechanism of the lockable package.

FIGS. 1-45 and 1-46 shows alternative embodiment of the deactivating components similar to that of FIGS. 1-40 to 1-41. These components 1010 and 1110 each employs a mechanical lock that replaces the glue tab 915.

The blank 1010 of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-45 has a mechanical lock comprising a locking tab 1022 and the associating locking slit 1024 for receiving the locking tab 1022. The locking tab 1022 project outward from a connector flap 1020 that is placed on the outside surface of the bottom panel 1016 when the blank 1010 is erected into the secondary sleeve. When inserted into the slit 1024, the tab 1022 is locked inside the slit 1024. By that means, the blank 1010 is held in a tubular form to be ready to use as a secondary sleeve or deactivating component.

The blank 1110 of the deactivating component of FIG. 1-46 has a pair of engaging slits 1122, 1124 in the bottom lap panels 1116, 1120. The slit 1122 extends from the lower longitudinal edge of the blank 1110 into the panel 1120 while the slit 1124 extends from the upper longitudinal edge of the blank 1110 into the panel 1116. To form a secondary sleeve from the blank 1110, the panels 1116, 1120 are brought into overlapping relationship such that the slits 1122, 1124 are mutually engaged to connect the panels 1116, 1120 together into one bottom panel. The fold line 1125 may be used to slightly fold the concealment portion to enhance the stiffness of the concealment portion so that the insertion process of the concealment portion may be facilitated.

The second invention is described herein after in reference to FIGS. 2-1 to 2-11. Generally the second invention teaches the provision of a secondary sleeve for use with a primary sleeve into which a lockable receptacle is receivable and lockable. The secondary sleeve may perform one or more or a combination of functions which may include: providing a disguising cover to occlude from view, the graphics and indicia printed upon the primary sleeve; protecting the primary sleeve; deactivating a two-part locking mechanism, a first part of which is provided in the primary sleeve; and enabling access to a release mechanism formed in the primary sleeve whilst at the same time occluding from view, graphics and indicia provided on the primary sleeve. Beneficially, notwithstanding the purpose of the secondary sleeve, which may be many and varied, the secondary sleeve is preferably formed from the same blank of sheet material as the blank for forming the primary sleeve. The secondary sleeve is detachably attached to that primary sleeve in a substantially flat-form such that the shipping size of the package thereby formed is not significantly increased and such that the primary sleeve, if containing graphics pertinent to the products contained by the intended lockable receptacle are readily visible for ensuring that the correct products are loaded into the primary sleeve.

According to a preferred aspect of the second invention, the externally facing walls or panels of the secondary sleeve are customized with graphics, indicia or other decorations, but may also be plain white or other colors in other embodiments. In some embodiments, the externally facing walls or panels of the secondary and/or primary sleeve are free from cut lines (that in the prior art are used to define and form unlocking mechanisms or release mechanisms). As such the externally facing panels of the secondary and/or primary sleeve of some embodiments of the second invention are uninterrupted or smooth or in other words retain their structural integrity. This is advantageous because cut-lines and moveable release tabs that can move relative to the plane of an external wall or panel provide an entry point for the ingress of air, dust or dirt. Where product freshness is a consideration, ingress of air, dust and dirt is a problem. Furthermore cut out release tabs provided on external walls or panels can become damaged and sometimes deliberately so prior to purchase of the package. As such, cut release tabs can provide a point of weakness in the package which may enable a thief to access the package contents prior to purchase.

Referring now to FIGS. 2-1 to 2-3, there is illustrated a blank 10 and a package 90 for storing a lockable receptacle 80 containing a product, such as medication in blisters 84, that have been constructed in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the second invention. The blank 10 is optionally formed from a foldable substrate, for example, paperboard, optionally having at least one coated and printed side. In other embodiments, the blank may be formed from any one or a combination of: paper, paperboard, fibreboard, plastics material, coated material, uncoated material, printed material.

The blank 10 comprises a primary sleeve forming portion 1 and a secondary sleeve forming portion 2. The blank 10 comprises a series of connected panels including: a primary sleeve inner top panel 12, a primary sleeve first side panel 14, a primary sleeve bottom panel 16, a primary sleeve second side panel 18, a primary sleeve outer top panel 20, a secondary sleeve top panel 22, a secondary sleeve first side panel 24, a secondary sleeve bottom panel 26, a secondary sleeve second side panel 28 and a secondary sleeve glue flap 30. The primary sleeve outer top panel 20 and secondary sleeve top panel 22 are connected directly together along a frangible connection 50 such that when formed, the secondary sleeve is detachably attached to the primary sleeve. Optionally and as shown, the frangible connection 50 is a series of perforations. The other panels are connected together by fold lines 42, 44, 46, 48, 52, 58a, 55 and 56.

First and second end closure flaps 38, 40 are connected via fold lines 67, 69 to the rear ends of the primary sleeve bottom panel 16 and the primary sleeve outer top panel 20 respectively. The first and second end closure flaps 38, 40 are foldable out of the plane of the primary sleeve bottom panel 16 and the primary sleeve outer top panel 20 and into flat face contacting relationship and affixed together to form a composite end wall of the primary sleeve that is formed from the primary sleeve forming portion 1 of the blank 10

Optionally, each of the front ends of the primary sleeve inner top panel 12, the primary sleeve bottom panel 16, and the primary sleeve outer top panel 20 are connected to first, second and third front end flaps 32, 34, 36 by connecting lines 61, 63, 65 respectively. Optionally, fold lines 61 and 63 are crease lines (also referred to as fold lines), whereas connection 65 may be a staggered perforation such that third flap 36 is readily detachable from the primary sleeve outer top panel 20. Optionally, an aperture, which is defined by each of a pair of arcuate cut lines 68a, 68b; 66a, 66b; 64a, 64b, interrupts each of the connecting lines 61, 63, 65 such that the front end of the primary sleeve comprises thumb or finger access apertures or recesses.

The primary sleeve inner top panel 12 comprises a first part of a two-part complementary locking mechanism in the form of an edge 72 which is defined by a cut-out or aperture. Preferably the cut-out or aperture is a horseshoe shaped aperture, struck from the primary sleeve inner top panel 12. The primary sleeve inner top panel 12 and primary sleeve outer top panel 20 each comprise part of a release mechanism 74, 70. The release mechanism 74, 70 is formed from foldable tabs which are integrally anchored at one end to the primary sleeve inner top panel 12 and primary sleeve outer top panel 20 respectively. The foldable tabs can flex or bend to displace their free ends out of the plane of the primary sleeve inner top panel 12 and primary sleeve outer top panel 20 so as to release a lockable receptacle from its engagement with the first part of the two-part locking mechanism—the engaging edge 72.

The primary sleeve portion 1 is foldable to form a tubular structure 90 (see FIGS. 2-2B and 2-3) which is closed at one end by the composite end wall 38/40 and which is open at its front end for receiving a lockable receptacle 80. The primary sleeve inner top panel 12 is disposed in flat-face contacting relationship and is affixed to the primary sleeve outer top panel 20 when the primary sleeve portion 1 is folded and assembled into the primary sleeve 90.

The secondary sleeve bottom panel 26 comprises a fold line 54 formed such that a panel portion 26a of the secondary sleeve bottom panel 26 is foldable inwardly and into face contacting relationship with the secondary sleeve first side panel 24. The panel portion 26a and the secondary sleeve first side panel 24 are foldable between the secondary sleeve bottom panel 26 and the secondary sleeve top panel 22 such that the secondary sleeve, in a flat-form, is formable from the blank 10. Optionally, in flat form, the secondary sleeve has a maximum width that is no greater than the width of the erect primary sleeve 90 or that is only slightly greater than the width of the primary sleeve.

Turning in more detail to the construction of the primary sleeve, first in its flat-form (not shown) and then in its tubular form 90, from the primary sleeve forming portion 1 of blank 10. Optionally, first and second flaps 32, 34 are folded about fold lines 61, 63 and affixed to the inside faces of the primary sleeve inner top panel 12 and the primary sleeve bottom panel 16 respectively. To affix the first and second flaps 32, 34 to the primary sleeve inner top panel 12 and the primary sleeve bottom panel 16, adhesive (such as hot melt glue) may be applied to one or both of the first flap 32 and the primary sleeve inner top panel 12; and to one or both of the second flap 34 and the primary sleeve bottom panel 16. The primary sleeve inner top panel 12 and primary sleeve first side panel 14 of the primary sleeve forming portion 1 of the blank 10 may then be folded together about fold line 44. This brings the primary sleeve inner top panel 12 and primary sleeve first side panel 14 into face contacting relationship with the primary sleeve second side panel 18 and the primary sleeve bottom panel 16. Adhesive or other affixing means may be used to securely affix the primary sleeve inner top panel 12 to the primary sleeve outer top panel 20, which primary sleeve outer top panel 20 is folded about fold line 48 to bring it into face contacting and affixed relationship with the primary sleeve inner top panel 12. The first and second flaps 32, 34 provide folded edges of the front open end of the primary sleeve 90 and one or both may additionally serve as a stopper to prevent or at least restrict the complete withdrawal of a lockable receptacle from the primary sleeve 90.

Folding of the primary sleeve outer top panel 20 about fold line 48 as described above, also causes the folding of the secondary sleeve forming portion 2 of the blank 10. At this point, construction of the primary sleeve 90 is not entirely completed since the end wall 38, 40 has not been assembled. In this state however, the primary sleeve is in its flat-form (not shown). It has been folded and part assembled and it is in this flat-form that the primary sleeve would preferably be shipped. As such, construction of the primary sleeve 90 may be fully completed at a converting plant, where at the primary sleeve is opened into a tubular form, loaded from one the front or rear end and then the rear end wall constructed by folding the first and second end panels 38, 40 about fold lines 67, 69 and into affixed and face contacting relationship. Prior to shipping, the secondary sleeve 92 is assembled into its flat-form.

Turning now to the construction of the secondary sleeve 92 in its substantially “flat-form” from secondary sleeve forming portion 2 of the blank 10 of FIG. 2-1, optionally the secondary sleeve forming portion 2 of the blank 10 is folded about frangible connection 50 such that the secondary sleeve top panel 22 and the primary sleeve outer top panel 20 are back-to-back. Optionally, then the glue flap 30 may be folded about fold line 56 to bring the glue flap 30 into face contacting relationship with part of the secondary sleeve second side panel 28 and with part of the secondary sleeve bottom panel 26. Optionally, at this point (or before folding of the glue flap 30), the third flap 36 of the primary sleeve forming portion 1 of the blank 10 may be folded about perforate line 65 and brought into flat face contacting relationship and affixed in contact with the inside surface of the secondary sleeve top panel 22. In this way, a further detachable connection between the primary sleeve 90 and secondary sleeve (in flat-form) 92 is formed.

The secondary sleeve forming portion 2 of the blank 10 is then further folded about fold line 52, to bring the secondary sleeve first side panel 24 and secondary sleeve bottom panel 26 and glue flap 30 into partial face contacting relationship with the secondary sleeve top panel 22 (and part of third flap 36). The secondary sleeve forming portion 2 is then folded back about fold line 58a such that the secondary sleeve first side panel 24 remains in flat face contacting relationship with the secondary sleeve top panel 22 and such that the panel portion 26a of the secondary sleeve bottom panel 26 is in face contacting relationship with the secondary sleeve first side panel 24.

Adhesive such as hot melt glue may be applied in the region 58b and then the remaining part of the secondary sleeve bottom panel 26 is folded back about fold line 54 and brought, together with the secondary sleeve second side panel 28 and glue flap 30 into face contacting relationship with part of the secondary sleeve top panel 22 and optionally with the third flap 36 (depending upon the shape and size of the glue flap 30 and third flap 36, the two panels 30, 36 may not in fact overlap).

The glue flap 30 is thereby sandwiched between and affixes together the secondary sleeve top panel 22 and secondary sleeve second side panel 28. Additionally, the secondary sleeve first side panel 24 and panel portion 26a are sandwiched between the secondary sleeve top panel 22 and the remaining part of the secondary sleeve bottom panel 26. The remaining part of secondary sleeve bottom panel 26 (without the panel portion 26a) is in co-planar relationship with the secondary sleeve second side panel 28; and the secondary sleeve top panel 22 is overlaid therewith. As such, the flat-form secondary sleeve has a maximum width which is substantially only the width of the secondary sleeve top panel 22. Optionally, the secondary sleeve top panel 22 may have a maximum width that is slightly less than the maximum width of the secondary sleeve bottom panel 26 (including the panel portion 26a). The glue flap 30 may be affixed to the secondary sleeve top panel 22 such that a thin strip of the glue flap 30 is not overlaid with the secondary sleeve top panel 22 and as such extends the width of the secondary sleeve top wall 22/30 thereby formed. In this way, in the erect tubular form of the secondary sleeve 94, the secondary sleeve top wall 22/30 and the secondary sleeve bottom wall 26 have the same maximum width, which width is sufficiently greater than the maximum external width of the primary sleeve 90 such that the primary sleeve 90 in an erect tubular form is receivable within the secondary sleeve 94 (this is illustrated in FIG. 2-2B and also in respect of a later embodiment in FIGS. 2-6A and 2-6B).

This part-assembled and flat-form primary and secondary sleeve 92 structure is transported to a converting plant as briefly described above. After the primary sleeve has been opened into a tubular structure 90 (by folding primary sleeve first side panel 14 and primary sleeve second side panel 18 out of the plane of the primary sleeve inner top panel 12 and primary sleeve bottom panel 18 respectively), the end wall 38, 40 is constructed and the primary sleeve 90 is assembled into its tubular erect form whilst the secondary sleeve 92 remains in its flat-form and remains detachably attached to the primary sleeve by means of frangible connection 50 and optional perforate connection 65. This further-assembled, tubular primary sleeve 90 and flat-form secondary sleeve structure 92 may be referred to as a second work product or when containing a lockable receptacle may be referred to as a package 96 and is shown in FIG. 2-2B.

Once a consumer or patient receives the package 96, they may deploy the secondary sleeve 94 by detaching the detachably attached secondary sleeve in flat-form 92 from the primary sleeve 90, and by forming it into a tubular structure 94, by folding panel portion 26a back into co-planar alignment with secondary sleeve bottom panel 26 and by folding the secondary sleeve first and second side panels 24, 28 out of the planes of the secondary sleeve top and bottom panels 22, 26 respectively. The separation of the secondary sleeve in flat form 92 from the primary sleeve in tubular form 90 is shown in respect of a later embodiment in FIG. 2-6B. The secondary sleeve in tubular form 94 is shown in cross-section in FIG. 2-3.

In this arrangement the secondary sleeve 94 serves to enhance the child-resistance feature of the primary package 90 by hiding the release mechanism 70 (see FIG. 2-3). Additionally, the use of the sleeve hides the graphics of the primary sleeve which may provide a more discrete package 96 for the user and/or by providing tailored or customized graphics on one or more or all panels 28, 26, 24, 22 of the secondary sleeve 94 additional information, advertising, or aesthetic graphical media can be provided which may further enhance the usefulness and/or pleasing appearance of the package 96 to promote its use by consumers.

The lockable receptacle 80 comprises a locking tail flap 82 which is folded relative to the main body of the lockable receptacle 80 in use. The locking tail flap 82 has a leading edge that is engageable with the engaging edge 72 provided by the primary sleeve inner top panel 12. The locking tail flap 82 provides the second part of the two-part locking mechanism. The lockable receptacle 80 in its locked position within the package 96 is shown in cross-section in FIG. 2-3. To release the lockable receptacle 80 a user needs to activate the release mechanism 70 which is occluded from view. As such the child resistance feature is enhanced because a non-authorised user would not readily see where the release mechanism 74 was located. Activation of the release mechanism 70 may be achieved by at least partially removing the secondary sleeve 94 such that the release mechanism 70 is exposed. It may be easier to fully remove the secondary sleeve 94 in order that access to the lockable receptacle 80 at the front open end of the primary sleeve 90 can be gained. The release mechanism 70 can then be directly depressed in order to sufficiently depress the locking tail flap 82 such that it is no longer in locking engagement with the first part 72 of the two-part locking mechanism. Simultaneously, the lockable receptacle 80 can be withdrawn from the primary sleeve 90. The thumb recesses 68a/68b, 66b/66a, 64a/64b may assist a user in grasping the lockable receptacle 80 even though it is disposed fully within the primary sleeve 90.

Alternatively, the secondary sleeve 94 may not need to be removed (partially or fully) in order for the release mechanism 70 to be activated. A user may learn the location of the release mechanism 70 or indicia may be provided on the secondary sleeve 94 to assist a user in the location of the release mechanism 70. The user thereby may be able to indirectly activate the release mechanism 70 by pressing on a release zone of the secondary sleeve 94, which in turn may depress the release mechanism 70 sufficiently to dislodge the locking tail flap 82 out of locking engagement. It is envisaged that in certain embodiments of the second invention, indicia provided on the secondary sleeve 94 to assist a user in the location of the release mechanism 70 may comprise any one or a combination of: a printed indicator such as a circle, arrow and/or colored region, an embossed, debossed, grooved or otherwise textured region, a label and a sticker.

Referring now to FIGS. 2-4 to 2-11, further embodiments of the second invention are illustrated. In the second, third and subsequent illustrated embodiments, like numerals have in some examples, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100” or “200” and so on to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment, third embodiment and so on. The further embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2-1 to 2-3 will be described in any greater detail.

In FIG. 2-4 a blank 110 is shown that differs from the blank 10 of FIG. 2-1 in that the release mechanism 170/174 comprises: in the primary sleeve outer top panel 120 only a pressing zone 170 rather than a deflectable tab 70; and, in the primary sleeve inner top panel 112, a foldable tab 174. The foldable tab 174 is integrally anchored at one end to the primary sleeve inner top panel 12 and can flex or bend such that its free end can be displaced out of the plane of the primary sleeve inner top panel 12 to cause the release of the lockable receptacle 180 from its engagement with the first part of the two-part locking mechanism, the engaging edge 172 of the primary sleeve inner top panel 112. When the pressing zone 170 in the primary sleeve outer top panel 120 is aligned above the deflectable tab 174 (see FIG. 2-5A), application of a downward or inward force in the direction F on the primary sleeve outer top panel 120 is sufficient to cause the tab 174 to deflect. Additionally, in applying the force F, a user is likely to additionally apply an oppositely directed force to the primary sleeve bottom panel 116 in vertical registry with the position at which the force F is applied to the primary sleeve outer top panel 120 and thereby squeeze the primary sleeve 190 which may further facilitate the release of the locking tail flap 180 from its locking engagement with the engaging edge 172.

The blank 110 optionally differs from the blank 10 of FIG. 2-1 in that a window, aperture or other demarcating element 181 is provided in the secondary sleeve top panel 122 (see FIGS. 2-4, 2-5B, 2-6A, 2-6B, 2-7A and 2-7B). The window, aperture or other demarcating element 181 is sized and arranged such that, when the erect tubular sleeve 194 is disposed over the primary sleeve 190, the window, aperture or other demarcating element 181 is aligned to highlight the location of the pressing zone 170 in the primary sleeve outer top panel 120 (see FIGS. 2-5B and 2-7B). Optionally, but nevertheless beneficially, in this arrangement, the thumb recess portions 160, 162 additionally serve as an alignment mechanism. The thumb recess portions 160, 162 of the secondary sleeve 194 when in tubular form, when positioned in registry with the thumb recess portions 164b, 168b respectively of the primary sleeve 190 ensure that the window, aperture or other demarcating element 181 is aligned to highlight the location of the pressing zone 170 in the primary sleeve outer top panel 120.

With the pressing zone 170 depressed into an unlocking or deflected state, the lockable receptacle 180 can be gripped and withdrawn from the primary sleeve 190. It is to be understood that a package 196 according to optional variations of the presently described embodiment may be designed to open by applying a force to the sides and/or bottom and/or top of the package 196 or any suitable combination in dependence upon the nature, size, orientation and configuration of two-part locking mechanism and its release mechanism. One or more pressing zones 170 demarcating an area for a user to either hold or press maybe provided. It is to be understood that the package may be designed such that other areas of pressure or any combination of these areas may be used to open the package 196 and that the design of such package 196 may be based on manufacturing preferences.

Optionally, the demarcated pressing zone 170 may be concavely curved, and rounded. Optionally however, other structures, methods and designs may be used to denote an area 170 to encourage a user to squeeze the primary sleeve 190 or otherwise apply a localized and inwardly focused force for unlocking the lockable receptacle 180 from its engagement with the engaging edge 172.

Optionally, each demarcated pressing zone 170 is circular in shape. Further optionally two demarcated pressing zones may be provided which may be similarly sized, have a similar radius and/or may be positioned such that in the primary sleeve the demarcated pressing zones are in super positioned, vertical spaced alignment. Further optionally, each demarcated pressing zone 170 may be formed by a circular depression made in the material from which the blank 110 is formed. Optionally this may be pressed into the material. Optionally the depression may be formed by compressing a shape, optionally circular, into the material, may be embossed, debossed or optionally scored, creased or partially cut (for example by a half-depth cut or series of interrupted nick cuts and creases). Preferably, the demarcated zone 170 is not formed by cutting completely through the material in order to avoid creating an entry point for the ingress of dirt and dusts and air. Optionally, graphical indicia may cover the demarcated pressing zone 170. Further optionally, graphical indicia may be provided, for example, the pressing zone 170 may be printed with colours, shapes and lettering. In other embodiments, a sticker, self-adhesive label or the like may be applied to the package to provide and/or embellish the demarcated pressing zone.

Release of the locking tail flap 182 is achieved by depression of the release tab 174. This is achieved by a user of the package 196 squeezing in the region of the demarcated pressing zone 170 and/or applying an appropriate downwardly directed force F. A user is encouraged to apply a localised squeezing force by the provision of at least one demarcated pressing zones. It is realised that in providing a location point in the form of a demarcated pressing zone 170 on the primary sleeve bottom panel 116 and/or primary sleeve outer top panel 120, that a user can comfortably grip the package 196 between a thumb and forefinger and conveniently, their thumb and forefinger are located to optimise the effectiveness of the force the user applies in disengaging the two-part locking mechanism. It will be recognised that the user cannot see the locking mechanism 172/182 though the package 196 and is not aware without investigation of its location or format. Therefore without a demarcated pressing zone 170 a user may not know how to disengage the internally disposed security lock. Furthermore, if a user attempts to squeeze the package in the incorrect locations, damage of the articles and products retained therein could result. As such, the demarcated pressing zone(s) 170 of the second invention guide a user to operate the package 196 correctly and effectively. To that end, in some envisaged embodiments, the physical format of the top wall demarcated pressing zone and the physical format of a bottom wall demarcated pressing zone may complement one another (for example corresponding recess or dish and bump or raised portion so that a user's thumb and forefinger can almost fit onto the package.

Turning now to a third embodiment of the second invention depicted in FIGS. 2-8, 2-9A and 2-9B, there is shown a blank 210, wherein the secondary sleeve provides a child resistant feature deactivation component. In this arrangement, the primary sleeve 290 again comprises a release tab 270 formed in the primary sleeve outer top panel 220. The deactivation component is insertable therein and shaped sized and configured to conceal the locking edge 272 of the two-part locking mechanism.

The secondary sleeve 292 in flat form is folded similarly to that described above. The secondary sleeve 292 is also detachably attached to the primary sleeve 190, but in this embodiment, optionally, the third flap 36 is not provided and only a single detachable attachment 250 is provided between the primary 290 and secondary sleeves 294. Additionally, temporary adhesive may be used to reinforce the detachable attachment of the secondary sleeve in flat-form 292 to the primary sleeve 290.

The deactivation component comprises a concealment 276 which is a shaped projection, sized and shaped and configured such that it can be fitted into the slot formed by the cut end of the deflectable release tab 270. The concealment 276 is neighboured on either side by a recess 275a, 275b to enhance the projected shaped of the tongue shaped concealment 276. The secondary sleeve 294 is shaped and sized such that once disposed upon the primary sleeve 290, the secondary sleeve first and second side panels 224, 228 abut the primary sleeve first and second side panels 214, 218 and in this way, at least the transverse or lateral positioning of the concealment 276 is controlled to ensure its registry with the release mechanism 270. By sliding the secondary sleeve 294 onto the primary sleeve 290 from the rear end of the primary sleeve 290 (see FIGS. 2-9A and 2-9B) the automatic positioning and registration of the concealment is achieved. It can be clearly seen in FIG. 2-9B that the concealment 276 lays beneath the locking edge 272. Because of the bending of the secondary sleeve bottom panel 226 above below and above the plane of the primary package outer top panel 220, the concealment 276 is tensioned or biased towards the primary package outer top panel 220 and as such fits relatively tightly against the underside of the primary package inner top panel 212. The locking tail flap 282 can easily pass there beneath and is released by deactivation by concealment of the first part of the two-part locking mechanism.

In a further envisaged embodiment, the “concealment” 276 could alternatively be used to highlight the location of a pressing zone 170 such as that shown in FIG. 2-4. In such an arrangement, the secondary sleeve 294 would not serve as a child resistant feature deactivation component necessarily, but rather the projecting tongue 276 may be shaped, optionally differently to that shown in FIG. 2-8 (for example may be arrow shaped or may comprise an aperture or window) for highlighting the position of a pressing zone 170.

In FIG. 2-10 a fourth illustrated embodiment is shown. The blank 310 of FIG. 2-10 differs from the blank 210 of FIG. 2-8 in that the secondary sleeve is a full length sleeve and in that the concealment 376 is formed in the secondary sleeve top panel 322 and in that the concealment 376 is defined by an aperture 375 rather than by a cut edge due to its being formed within a panel 322 of material rather than at an edge thereof.

Optionally, in some embodiments, the thumb recess notches 360, 362 of the secondary sleeve provide an additional advantage in that they serve as an alignment guide when the secondary sleeve is in tubular form (not shown) about the primary sleeve (not shown). When each of the thumb recess notches 360, 362 is positioned in registry with the respective thumb recess portion 364b, 368b of the primary sleeve the concealment 376 is longitudinally aligned and in registry with the release mechanism 370 in the primary sleeve outer top panel 320.

FIG. 2-11 shows a fifth embodiment of the second invention. FIG. 2-11 shows a blank 410 wherein the secondary sleeve blank portion 492 provides a child resistant feature deactivation component. In this arrangement, the primary sleeve blank portion comprises a release tab 470 formed in the primary sleeve outer top panel 420. The concealment portion 476 of the deactivation component is insertable into the slit that defines the release tab 470 and shaped, sized and configured to conceal the locking edge 472 of the two-part locking mechanism.

The secondary sleeve 492 in flat form is folded similarly to that described earlier. The secondary sleeve 492 is designed to provide a short sleeve similar to that shown in FIGS. 2-8 and 2-9A and it is detachably attached to the outer top panel 420 of the primary sleeve. However, in the fifth embodiment, the orientation of the secondary sleeve 492 in the blank form with respect to the primary sleeve differs from that in FIG. 2-8 or 2-10. The orientation of the secondary sleeve 492 as viewed in the blank form of FIG. 2-11 is such that the elongated blank 492 for the secondary sleeve is disposed along the longitudinal side edge of the outer top panel 420, and the elongated blank 492 is detachably connected entirely along the longitudinal side edge of the outer top panel 420 along a severance line 450. When the blank 410 is erected into a container, the secondary sleeve 492 yet remains non-erected but is detachably attached to the side of the primary sleeve along the side edge of the outer top panel 420 such that the elongated blank 492 of the secondary sleeve extends along the tubular axis of the primary sleeve.

To use the secondary sleeve, the blank 492 of the secondary sleeve in FIG. 2-11 is detached from the associated primary sleeve to obtain a free flat blank 429 of the secondary sleeve. The secondary sleeve blank 492 has a pair of engaging slits 430a, 430b in the bottom lap panels 422a, 422b respectively. The slit 430a extends from the outer longitudinal edge of the blank 492 into the panel 422a while the slit 430b extends from the inner longitudinal edge or severance line 450 into the panel 422b. To form a secondary sleeve from the blank 492, the panels 422a, 422b are brought into overlapping relationship such that the slits 430a, 430b are mutually engaged to connect the panels 422a, 422b together into one bottom panel. The fold line 498 may be used to slightly fold the concealment portion 476 to enhance the stiffness of the concealment portion 476 so that insertion process of the concealment portion 476 may be facilitated.

While the second invention has been described in terms of specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that no limitations are intended thereby to the details of construction or design, the second invention contemplating and including any novel feature or novel combination of features which are herein disclosed.

It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the second invention, for example, the size, number, configuration, position and relative placement, shape and physical formation of the or each demarcated pressing zone may be adjusted to suit the locking mechanism and/or size and/or color and/or design and/or intended purpose of the package. Preferably, the entire pressing zone does not overlap (in superposition) with the engaging edge or engaging mechanism provided, however, in some embodiments there may be an overlap. Preferably, the center (width-ways) of the demarcated pressing zone is aligned with the center (width-ways) of an internal release tab when provided.

Each demarcated pressing zone may comprise any one or more of: an embossment, debossment, crease, groove, compressed region of material, integrally formed raised button or recess. Optionally the demarcated region may be formed by any one or more or an appropriate combination of: thermo-forming, molded, blow-molded, pressed, grooved, engraved, cored, and hatched.

It will be understood that lockable receptacles 80, 180, 280, 380 may be contained within any suitable primary sleeve herein described.

In envisaged embodiments a window, display or other access aperture 181 such as that shown in FIGS. 2-4, 2-6A, 2-6B may be provided in a secondary sleeve used in conjunction with a primary sleeve that rather than having a pressing zone 170 has a release tab 70 such as that shown in the first embodiment of FIGS. 2-1 to 2-3.

It will be recognised that, as used herein, directional references such as “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, “end”, “side”, “inner”, “outer”, “upper” and “lower” do not limit the respective panels to such orientation, but merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another. Any reference to hinged connection should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed it is envisaged that hinged connection can be formed from one or more of the following, a short slit, a frangible line or a fold line without departing from the scope of the second invention.

The phrase “in registry with” as used herein refers to alignment of two or more elements in an erected package, such as a recess formed in a secondary sleeve and a notch formed in a primary sleeve. Those elements in registry with each other may be aligned with each other in the direction of the thickness of the overlapping panels of the primary and secondary sleeve. For example, when a notch in a primary sleeve is “in registry with” an recess in a secondary sleeve that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the primary sleeve, an edge of the notch may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the recess and may be aligned, in the direction of the thickness of the panels forming the primary and secondary sleeve.

While the inventions have been described by reference to various specific embodiments, it should be understood that numerous changes may be made within the spirit and scope of the inventive concepts described. The present inventions are not intended to be limited to the particular structures disclosed. Rather, the present inventions are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present inventions as defined by the following appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A deactivating component for use with a package comprising an outer sleeve having a first part of a two-part locking structure, the deactivating component comprising a concealment portion coupled to an anchoring portion, wherein the concealment portion is structured and configured for insertion internally of the outer sleeve such that the concealment portion is sufficiently disposable between the first and second parts of the two part locking structure to prevent the second-part of the two-part locking structure engaging the first part of the two-part locking structure of the outer sleeve and wherein, in use, the anchoring portion is disposed externally of the outer sleeve.

2. The deactivating component according to claim 2 wherein the anchoring portion of the deactivating component comprises an upper tab including a bumpy or roughened surface portion and wherein the concealment portion comprises a lower tab having a greater length than the upper tab and being tapered to a free end to facilitate its insertion internally of the outer sleeve.

3. The deactivating component according to claim 1 wherein the anchoring portion and concealment portion are formed as a unitary, substantially flat structure, wherein the anchoring portion is wider than the concealment portion, wherein the concealment portion tapers to a free end to facilitate its insertion internally of the outer sleeve and wherein at its opposite end the concealment portion comprises two shoulder portions which serve to temporarily latch the deactivating component to the outer sleeve.

4. The deactivating component according to claim 3 wherein the deactivating component is inwardly recessed and shaped between the anchoring portion and the concealment portion to limit the extent to which the deactivating component is insertable internally of the outer sleeve and wherein the deactivating component is generally tee-shaped, wherein a head of the tee defines the anchoring portion and wherein a leg of the tee defines the concealment portion.

5. The deactivating component according to claim 1, wherein the anchoring portion and concealment portion are formed as a unitary, substantially tubular structure, wherein the anchoring portion is wider than the outer sleeve and wider than the concealment portion.

6. The deactivating component according to claim 1, wherein the deactivating component is formed as a secondary sleeve comprising: a secondary sleeve top panel, a secondary sleeve bottom panel and secondary sleeve first and second side panels interconnecting and spacing the secondary sleeve top and bottom panels and wherein the concealment portion is formed as a shaped projection from the secondary sleeve top panel and wherein the remainder of the secondary sleeve top panel, secondary sleeve bottom panel and secondary sleeve first and second side panels together form the anchoring portion.

7. The deactivating component according to claim 1, wherein the deactivating component is formed as a substantially flat flexible panel, wherein the concealment portion is defined by a substantially “U”-shaped aperture within said flexible panel and wherein the remainder of the flexible panel provides the anchoring portion.

8. The deactivating component according to claim 7 wherein the deactivating component is substantially square-shaped and wherein the width of the deactivating component is less than the width of the outer shell and wherein the length of the deactivating component is less than the length of the outer shell.

9. The deactivating component according to claim 1, wherein the deactivating component is formed as a substantially tubular secondary sleeve structure comprising: a secondary sleeve top panel, a secondary sleeve bottom panel and secondary sleeve first and second side panels interconnecting and spacing the secondary sleeve top and bottom panels and wherein the concealment portion is defined by a substantially “U”-shaped aperture formed within the secondary sleeve top panel and wherein the remainder of the secondary sleeve top panel, secondary sleeve bottom panel and secondary sleeve first and second side panels together form the anchoring portion.

10. The deactivating component according to claim 1 wherein the concealment portion bends to cover the first-part of the locking structure in the outer sleeve when the deactivating component is inserted internally of the outer sleeve.

11. A combination comprising a package and a deactivating component, the package comprising:

an outer sleeve including a first part of a two-part locking structure; and

a lockable receptacle lockably retained within the outer sleeve for sliding movement between a fully inserted position and an outwardly extended position, the lockable receptacle comprising a second part of the two-part locking structure;

the deactivating component being removably associated with the first part of the two-part locking structure of the outer sleeve,

wherein when the deactivating component associates with the outer sleeve, the first part of the two-part locking structure is prevented from engaging with the second part of the two-part locking structure of the lockable receptacle such that the lockable receptacle is slidable to the outwardly extended position, and

wherein when the deactivating component disassociates from the outer sleeve, the first-part of the two-part locking structure can re-engage with the second part of the two-part locking structure of the lockable receptacle to lock the lockable receptacle within the outer sleeve.

12. The combination according to claim 11, wherein the deactivating component comprises a first portion and a second portion connecting to the first portion, wherein the second portion is configured to insert through the outer sleeve such that the deactivating component releasably engages to the first locking structure of the outer sleeve.

13. The combination according to claim 11 wherein the deactivating component is substantially square-shaped and wherein the width of the deactivating component is less than the width of the outer shell and wherein the length of the deactivating component is less than the length of the outer shell.

14. The combination according to claim 11 wherein the first part of the two-part locking structure is selected from the group comprising: a locking edge, an aperture, a cutout, a notch, a protrusion, and combinations thereof.

15. The combination according to claim 14 wherein the second part of the two-part locking structure is selected from the group comprising: of a protruding flap, an arc flap, a folded flap, an extension flap, a protruding bump, a protruding structure having an upper and a lower bumps wherein the upper bump releasably engages to the first locking structure, a protruding structure having a bump and a cut opening structure adjacent to the bump wherein the cut opening structure releasably engages to the locking edge, and a protruding structure having more than one bump.

16. The combination according to claim 15 wherein the outer sleeve further comprises a releasing structure substantially adjacent to the first locking structure, the releasing structure being selected from the group consisting of an opening flap or flexible tab, a perforated flap, a cut flap, and a cut structure.

17. A method of deactivating or activating a package having a releasable locking feature, the method comprising:

providing a package comprising: an outer sleeve including a first locking structure, a lockable receptacle lockably retained within the outer sleeve for sliding movement between a fully inserted position and an outwardly extended position, the lockable receptacle comprising a second locking structure configured to releasably engage with the first locking structure of the outer sleeve, a deactivating component removably associated with the outer sleeve, the deactivating component being configured to prevent the first locking structure of the outer sleeve from engaging with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle; associating the deactivating component with the outer sleeve to prevent the first locking structure of the outer sleeve from engaging with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle, such that the lockable receptacle is slidable to the outwardly extended position.

18. A packaging kit comprising: a deactivating component; a lockable receptacle including a second part of a two-part locking structure; and an outer sleeve configured to receive the lockable receptacle and lockably retain the lockable receptacle within the outer sleeve for sliding movement between a fully inserted position and an outwardly extended position, the outer sleeve comprising a first part of the two-part locking structure configured to releasably engage with the second locking structure of the lockable receptacle, wherein when the deactivating component associates with the outer sleeve, the first part of the two-part locking structure is prevented from engaging with the second part of the two-part locking structure of the lockable receptacle such that the lockable receptacle is slidable to the outwardly extended position.

19. The packaging kit of claim 18, wherein the first part of the two-part locking structure is selected from the group consisting of a locking edge, an aperture, a cutout, a notch, a protrusion, and combinations thereof.

20. The packaging kit of claim 19, wherein the second part of the two-part locking structure is selected from the group consisting of a protruding flap, an arc flap, a folded flap, an extension flap, a protruding bump, a protruding structure having a top and a bottom bumps wherein the upper bump releasably engages to the first locking structure, a protruding structure having a bump and an cut opening structure adjacent to the bump wherein the cut opening structure releasably engages to the locking edge, and a protruding structure having more than one bumps.