With Yieldable Retainer Patents (Class 206/591)
  • Patent number: 8307984
    Abstract: A packaging container including a packaging insert suspending an article within an exterior box. The packaging insert is formed as a top portion overlying a bottom portion, each including a pair of side panels and a pair of end panels, corresponding top and bottom side panels being affixed together face-to-face such as with adhesive at manufacturing time, and corresponding top and bottom end panels being affixed together face-to-face at packaging time. The bottom end panels include bottom end panel extensions which trap the top end panels against the bottom end panels, and which include lock tabs engaging the bottom panel. The mated side panels are angled e.g. downward and the mated end panels are angled e.g. upward, to provide stand-off within an exterior box, protecting the packaged article. The top and/or bottom panels include break control means such as slotted holes, which control where each panel breaks when stressed around the packaged article by closure of the packaging insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Columbia Corrugated Box
    Inventor: Charles A. Collier
  • Publication number: 20120272621
    Abstract: A cushioning structure is provided for safely transporting goods, comprising a main frame with at least one bearing surface, carrier foil bonded to the bearing surface, fully covering the at least one bearing surface, and covering the area between the bearing surfaces as a carrying surface for the goods, wherein the main frame comprises multiple foldable inner and outer side flaps able to be folded into multiple supporting elements to support the bearing surface with a height defined by the dimensions of the outer side flaps, wherein the carrier foil comprises a first foil, preferably an urethane foil, and a second foil, preferably an urethane foil, and an air cushion between the first and the second foils. Further, a container is provided configured to be reducible in size, comprising the cushioning structure, a method to load the goods into the container and a method to collapse the empty container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Deutsche Post AG
    Inventors: Keinosuke Miyazaki, Keishi Yamada
  • Publication number: 20120273386
    Abstract: A cushioning structure is provided for transporting large fragile goods, comprising a main frame with contiguous bearing surface, carrier foil attached to the main frame fully covering the bearing surfaces and area enclosed by the bearing surface as a carrying surface for the goods main frame comprises multiple foldable inner and outer side flaps to be folded into multiple supporting elements of connected inner and outer side flaps to support the bearing surface of the main frame with a height defined by the dimensions of the outer side flaps and having a profile to increase resilience of the main frame for carrying goods with weights of more than 25 kg and collapsible into a two-dimensional structure. A container is also provided that is reducible in size comprising the cushioning structure, a method to load the goods into the container and a method to collapse the empty container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Deutsche Post AG
    Inventors: Keinosuke Miyazaki, Keishi Yamada
  • Patent number: 8272510
    Abstract: An inflatable structure generally includes a valve formed between a pair of edge portions and an internal edge portion formed of a flexible film such that an enclosed chamber of the inflatable structure substantially envelops the internal edge portion. The valve and remainder of the inflatable structure can be formed from a single piece of flexible film using a method of manufacturing an inflatable structure from a continuous web of flexible film. A corresponding inflation device fills the inflatable structure with air and may do so without requiring heat sealing or contact between the inflatable structure and outlet of the inflation device. The inflation device may include a mechanical registration device which can engage an optional locator aperture in the inflatable structure such as to assist in temporarily locating the outlet of the source of pressurized air proximate to the valve in the inflatable structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation (US)
    Inventors: Shawn Michael Frayne, Paul Chudy
  • Patent number: 8236254
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides test strip carriers for insertion into test strip vials and methods of making the same. Also provided are test strip vials including test strip carriers, and systems including test strip vials, test strip carriers and analytical test strips. The test strip carriers of the present disclosure are capable of engaging with the caps of test strip vials and thereby facilitating the retrieval of one or more test strips from the test strip vials upon opening of the test strip vials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Abbott Diabetes Care Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Myles, Cherie Bulala
  • Patent number: 8177067
    Abstract: A suspension packaging system can include a foldable member configured to form a cavity as well as a suspension device for suspending an article to be packaged within the cavity. The suspension portion can include foldable portions configured to cooperate with a retention member having pockets. The foldable portions can fit into the pockets and then be folded so as to generate tension in the retention member. The entire device, with the exception of the retention member, can be made from a single piece of material, such as corrugated cardboard, which thus reduces waste and simplifies bulk distribution of such a suspension packaging system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Clearpark, LLC
    Inventors: John McDonald, Frank Comerford, Myles Comerford
  • Publication number: 20120103864
    Abstract: Various techniques and designs for integrating protective packaging and shipping material within large objects such as computer systems are disclosed herein. This protective material, when exposed, allows the object it is coupled with to be safely transported and shipped. In one embodiment applicable to large machines such as computer mainframes, a protective shock-absorbent material such as foam is affixed to a first face of a reversible machine cover. The machine cover may be oriented to insert and hide the protective material within the machine and expose a cover on the second face. The cover then may be placed in a reverse orientation to expose the protective material on the first face. In this way, the protective material does not need to be separately stored or provided to the customer before transport. Further, the protective material is kept in a convenient location with the machine, and when deployed will provide shock protection according to original manufacturer specifications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Edward J. Grenchus, JR., Stephan G. Laforge
  • Patent number: 8146748
    Abstract: A packaging device is provided for an item of three-dimensional shape comprising a non-porous deformable outer wrap characterized in being deformable in three dimensions to at least partially surround the item of three-dimensional shape therein. The device includes a mass of loose fill elements disposed within the outer wrap and can occupy a first volume in a first storage state sufficient to permit the packaging device to be stored. The device further provides that the mass of elements disposed within the outer wrap can occupy a second volume in a second use state to shape about the item of three dimensional shape and to permit the elements to deform within the outer wrap to accommodate the three-dimensional shape of the item. The outer wrap and the elements disposed within the outer wrap are biodegradable. The elements are adapted to change from the first storage state of unpopped corn kernels to the second use state of popped popcorn kernels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Shurtech Brands, LLC
    Inventor: Brian Vulpitta
  • Patent number: 8127928
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a collapsible shipping container utilizing standard box making equipment manufactured from material such as paper, corrugated board, and corrugated plastic, and in particular, to a package that employs a tensioned film system, that holds a product hammock style, between two layers of film and/or between a film and a wall of the package. To use the box, the formed box which has been stored in a flat configuration, is unfolded to a substantially rectangular or square configuration by folding at least one flap panel about its fold line to a position superadjacent a central panel and conforming the container to a hexagonal cross-section. In this configuration the box retains its hexagonal cross-section and can be self supporting in a vertical position, in order to facilitate the filing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventors: Steven Michael Stack, Jr., David Goodrich
  • Patent number: 8061522
    Abstract: In an embodiment according to the invention, a reusable shipping container for shipping an item includes an outer clamshell carton and first and second convex pillows. The outer clamshell carton has first and second receptacles foldable toward each other along a hinge. The first convex pillow is foldable in and out of the first receptacle, and the second convex pillow is foldable in and out of the second receptacle. The first and second convex pillows face each other when they are folded into the respective first and second receptacles and the outer clamshell carton is closed. The first and second convex pillows are resilient to deflect into a concave shape with the item between them. The outer clamshell carton, the hinge, and the first and second convex pillows are integrally molded from one material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventors: Ken Eskenazi, Seri McClendon, Barent Roth, Anthony Guido
  • Patent number: 8047378
    Abstract: The present invention relates to shipping containers, and more particularly to a reusable shipping container with reusable cushioning. In one embodiment, a reusable shipping container for shipping an item includes first and second outer trays, and first and second cushions. Each cushion is received in one of the outer trays, and each cushion has an open, hollow dome. The dome extends substantially across the respective outer tray. The first and second outer trays are engageable to close the container, with the domes of the first and second cushions facing each other. Each dome is made of a resilient material that is deflectable into a substantially concave bowl to receive an item between the facing domes during shipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventors: Ken Eskenazi, Barent Roth, Anthony Guido
  • Publication number: 20110259787
    Abstract: A suspension packaging system can include a foldable member configured to form a cavity as well as a suspension device for suspending an article to be packaged within the cavity. The suspension portion can include foldable portions configured to cooperate with a retention member having pockets. The foldable portions can fit into the pockets and then be folded so as to generate tension in the retention member. The entire device, with the exception of the retention member, can be made from a single piece of material, such as corrugated cardboard, which thus reduces waste and simplifies bulk distribution of such a suspension packaging system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventors: John McDonald, Frank Comerford, Myles Comerford
  • Patent number: 8028838
    Abstract: A suspension package assembly can include a package member, a stretchable retention member, and a closure device disposed on the stretchable retention member. The package member and a stretchable retention member cooperate to suspend at least one article. At least one article can be held securely between the retention member and a base member of the foldable member. The pocket of the retention member can be positioned over the foldable portions of the package member. The foldable portions can fit into the pockets and then can be folded so as to generate tension in the retention member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Clearpak, LLC
    Inventors: John McDonald, Frank Comerford, Myles Comerford
  • Patent number: 8016112
    Abstract: To stably hold and pack a thin card-shaped article. A packing implement for article transportation includes a board 1 and a holding sheet 2. The board 1 is sectioned into a base 3 and a cover 4, and the cover 4 has a window hole 5, and the holding sheet 2 is stuck over the window hole 5. On the base 3, an article M is placed, and the cover 4 is folded double over the article, and further, the base 3 and the cover 4 are folded integrally along opening edges of the window hole 5 to build up a three-dimensional packing implement. By folding the base 3 and the cover 4, the holding sheet 2 facing the inside of the window hole 5 is tensioned, and the article M is pressed down by the holding sheet 2 and held at a fixed position on the base 3. The packing implement 8 packing the article M is housed as it is in an outer case 9.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Yamato Packing Technology Institute Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kouichi Kasiwabara
  • Patent number: 8011511
    Abstract: A packing material is made of a thin plastic bag with compressible beads inside, and with the pressure inside the bag being sufficiently less than the ambient pressure outside the bag to keep the beads in a non-free-flowing state, the packing material being generally flat, with a generally constant cross-sectional thickness and having at least one trough of lesser cross-sectional thickness to serve as a bend line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Simpak International LLC
    Inventors: Max D. Oyler, William Kennet Oyler, III, Michael J. Lyons, Ron Smith, Charles W. Woods, II
  • Publication number: 20110168603
    Abstract: A blank-folded box-shaped package includes a top, a bottom opposite the top, two opposite lateral walls (I) connecting the top and the bottom, two opposite ends walls (U) connecting the top and the bottom, and two opposite peripheral shock absorbing end zones (R). Each end zone (R) is defined by one of the opposite end walls and extensions of the top, bottom and two opposite lateral walls. Also, each end zone (R) defines an exposed cavity region with the end walls in a retracted position inwardly of the shock absorbing end zone (R) of doubled material. The package defines a package blank in an unfolded state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: Packsize LLC
    Inventor: Niklas PETTERSSON
  • Publication number: 20110108449
    Abstract: Packaging comprising a base having an interior space for receiving an item, wherein the base includes a bottom surface and one or more side surfaces; a ledge formed along a side surface; and a holder supported by the ledge, wherein the holder includes a retaining mechanism for retaining the item.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Bartley K. ANDRE, Daniel J. COSTER, Daniele DE IULIIS, Richard P. HOWARTH, Jonathan P. IVE, Steve JOBS, Duncan Robert KERR, Shin NISHIBORI, Matthew Dean ROHRBACH, Peter RUSSELL-CLARKE, Douglas B. SATZGER, Calvin Q. SEID, Christopher J. STRINGER, Eugene Antony WHANG, Rico ZORKENDORFER, Vincent Keane SEID
  • Patent number: 7931151
    Abstract: A suspension packaging system can include a foldable member configured to form a cavity as well as a suspension device for suspending an article to be packaged within the cavity. The suspension portion can include foldable portions configured to cooperate with a retention member having pockets. The foldable portions can fit into the pockets and then be folded so as to generate tension in the retention member. The entire device, with the exception of the retention member, can be made from a single piece of material, such as corrugated cardboard, which thus reduces waste and simplifies bulk distribution of such a suspension packaging system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Inventors: John McDonald, Frank Comerford, Myles Comerford
  • Patent number: 7913847
    Abstract: A packaging system in which an object can be maintained for shipping. The packaging system has a shell defining a space for reception of an object in a shipping state and an object engaging surface assembly that bounds at least a part of the space. The packaging system further has a fluid chamber assembly and a fluid within the fluid chamber assembly that has a variable pressure that is increased, thereby to cause the object engaging surface assembly to resiliently bear with increasing force against an object in the shipping state. The fluid within the fluid chamber assembly remains in a flowable state with the packaging system in a final state for shipping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: George Kasboske
  • Patent number: 7882956
    Abstract: A suspension packaging system can include a retention member having at least one pocket and a relatively more rigid member configured to be inserted into the pocket and folded into a state in which a tension in the retention member is increased. The more rigid member can be in the form of a tray and can include protrusions over which the pocket is placed. The protrusions can then be moved into engagement with apertures thereby engaging the resilient member between the protrusion and the aperture. Additionally, flaps of a box can be inserted into pockets of a resilient member and rotated so as to generate attention in the retention member so as to provide further cushioning of an article to be packaged therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventors: John McDonald, Frank Comerford, Myles Comerford
  • Publication number: 20100320116
    Abstract: A container insert for taking up extra space may be placed in a container intended for storage and/or shipment of material to an end user. The insert may be generally longitudinal having a helical configuration that may be expanded and constricted for taking up different volumes of space within the container respective of the amount of material stored therein. The insert may also be elastically deformable or generally pliable and may absorb impact forces for preventing or minimizing damage to the material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: LINCOLN GLOBAL, INC.
    Inventor: Paul A. Weissbrod
  • Patent number: 7854323
    Abstract: A container insert for taking up extra space may be placed in a container intended for storage and/or shipment of material to an end user. The insert may be generally longitudinal having a helical configuration that may be expanded and constricted for taking up different volumes of space within the container respective of the amount of material stored therein. The insert may also be elastically deformable or generally pliable and may absorb impact forces for preventing or minimizing damage to the material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul A. Weissbrod
  • Publication number: 20100276331
    Abstract: A spring type paper cushion having a columnar body, at least four cushioning recesses, at least four projections and a receiving portion. The columnar body has a columnar wall and an axis. The cushioning recesses and the projections are formed on the columnar wall. The projections are respectively located between two of the cushioning recesses. The receiving portion is recessed into the columnar wall and is located at one of the cushioning recess. The receiving portion has two receiving mountain-fold lines, two slits and a bottom. The slits are cut so that the two receiving mountain-fold lines can be folded allowing the bottom to sink into the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: YU-HAN FAN
  • Publication number: 20100276332
    Abstract: A suspension package assembly can include a package member, a stretchable retention member, and a closure device disposed on the stretchable retention member. The package member and a stretchable retention member cooperate to suspend at least one article. At least one article can be held securely between the retention member and a base member of the foldable member. The pocket of the retention member can be positioned over the foldable portions of the package member. The foldable portions can fit into the pockets and then can be folded so as to generate tension in the retention member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventors: JOHN MCDONALD, FRANK COMERFORD, MYLES COMERFORD
  • Publication number: 20100252458
    Abstract: A tubular container, closed at its top part by a closure means of the stopper type including with a hinge, for packaging unit products stacked axially or in bulk such as pallets, tablets, cachets or pills, and provided with a compensation device, positioned at the bottom of the container. The container optionally includes a desiccating means and the compensation device includes a compensation means and a fastening means. The fastening means is secured to the compensation means and has a shape memory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: AIRSEC (SOCIETE PAR ACTIONS SIMPLIFIEE)
    Inventors: Bruno GUILLON, Valere LOGEL
  • Patent number: 7789604
    Abstract: A reusable dunnage system employing a weatherproof outer cover is disclosed. The dunnage comprises specially manufactured high density foam that will return to its original condition after suffering compression forces and the required properties of the foam are given. The outer cover is, of necessity, fire retardant, biologically inert, hypoallergenic, and provides the required weatherproofing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas H. Rotche
  • Patent number: 7770734
    Abstract: To provide a packing implement for goods transportation that facilitates packing in the transportation of the goods and is a combination of a baseboard and a holding sheet. The baseboard is a rectangular board for supporting an article to be transported at a fixed position, and has rising parts, falling parts and shape retaining parts. The rising parts are folded back upward from both end edges of a short side of the baseboard, the falling parts are folded back downward from both side edges of a long side of the baseboard, respectively, the falling part is constituted by a leg part orthogonal to the baseboard and a bottom part which is bent parallel with the baseboard, and a buffer space corresponding to a rising height of the leg part of the falling part is formed by the leg part bent so as to be orthogonal to the baseboard and the bottom part bent parallel with the baseboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Yamato Packing Technology Institute Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeshi Saitou, Hisae Saitou, legal representative, Miho Ohno, legal representative, Kumi Suzuki, legal representative, Rie Kawasaki, legal representative, Kouichi Kasiwabara
  • Patent number: 7757861
    Abstract: A package assembly for a product includes a cushion pad and a retaining member engaged with the cushion pad for retaining the product on the cushion pad. The retaining member defines a plurality of expandable cuts therein so as to increase the elastic extendibility of the retaining member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Guan-Dong Wang, Xiang-Yu You, Gang Peng, Hsiang-Lung Hsu
  • Patent number: 7757850
    Abstract: Protective soft cushioned bag providing hand holds to safely contain, protect and carry a monitor or load of varying sizes and weights from the original site of the monitor or load to the rigid protective rectangular exoskeleton shell for transportation to another location or secure storage and vise versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventors: Dennis Theodore Krizan, Jon T. Erickson
  • Patent number: 7753209
    Abstract: A suspension packaging assembly includes a packaging member having a base member and at least one lateral support wall. Preferably, the packaging member includes a pair of opposing support walls. The base member is connected to the support walls through one or more compound joints, which are configured to permit displacement of the base member relative to the support walls. The packaging assembly may include a stretchable retention member, which cooperates with the packaging member to suspend at least one article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Inventors: John McDonald, Frank Comerford, Myles Comerford
  • Patent number: 7748539
    Abstract: A packaged body includes: a prism-shaped packaging box 1 having a bottom; a pair of top and bottom shock absorbers 30 accommodated inside packaging box 1 for sandwiching a substrate storage container 10; elastic members 50 disposed between substrate storage container 10 and each shock absorber 30; and reinforcements 60 for reinforcing each of shock absorbers 30. Further, shock absorber 30 is formed as a shock absorbing element 31 that fits substrate storage container 10, a surrounding wall 32 of the shock absorbing element 31 is constructed of an inner wall 35 that is bent and formed along the periphery of shock absorbing element 31, a protrusion 36 that is formed from inner wall 35 so as to project outwards and an outer wall 37 that is formed from protrusion 36 so as to be spaced from, and oppose, inner wall 35 of shock absorbing element 31.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Shin-Etsu Polymer Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takehito Onda, Seiya Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20100155291
    Abstract: A packaging component comprises a first block including a first support member having a first protective layer disposed on an external surface thereof and a second block opposite the first block and including a second support member having a second protective layer disposed on an external surface thereof. A spacer is coupled between the first block and the second block, and defines a longitudinal axis therebetween. The spacer is adjustable in length along the longitudinal axis so that the packaging component can be adjusted to a desired size within a range provided by the spacer to enable the packaging component to provide an interference fit within a product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Bruce Dunn
  • Patent number: 7731028
    Abstract: A product vulnerable to damage during shipping, such as an automobile windshield glass, for example, is mounted on a support pad and fixed onto the pad by wrapping a stretch wrapping film around the combination of the pad and glass. The borders of the pad extend beyond the borders of the glass so the package containing the glass can be stood on edge, but the edge of the glass is spaced away from the surface on which the package is stood. Thus the glass, secured to the pad, is suspended away from that surface. Multiple packages can be packed into a shipping container and the loaded container can be lifted and transported by a lift truck with lifting forks received in passageways formed in the container by notches in the bottom edges of the support pads. The pads and containers are made of die-cut corrugated fiberboard material although other material might also be used in the practice of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Inventor: Arch W. Carroll, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100101974
    Abstract: The present invention relates to shipping containers, and more particularly to a reusable shipping container with reusable cushioning. In one embodiment, a reusable shipping container for shipping an item includes first and second outer trays, and first and second cushions. Each cushion is received in one of the outer trays, and each cushion has an open, hollow dome. The dome extends substantially across the respective outer tray. The first and second outer trays are engageable to close the container, with the domes of the first and second cushions facing each other. Each dome is made of a resilient material that is deflectable into a substantially concave bowl to receive an item between the facing domes during shipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventors: Ken Eskenazi, Barent Roth, Anthony Guido
  • Patent number: 7654390
    Abstract: A unitary palletized packaging assembly for securing a packaged article to a wooden shipping pallet is provided. The article is assembled on a paperboard base and then after assembly enclosed in an open bottomed carton and placed on a shipping pallet. The transport base and carton each have bottom flaps that are folded downward and stapled to the sides of the shipping pallet in overlapping fashion to prevent lateral movement of the transport base and packaged article with respect to the shipping pallet. The transport base includes cushioning elements to cushion and support the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Sonoco Development Inc.
    Inventors: James R Baechle, Matthew Marrow, Edward L Lake
  • Patent number: 7648750
    Abstract: A cushion apparatus that may be advantageously utilized as an end cap for packaging shock sensitive products is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the cushion apparatus includes a base member having one or more side walls having inner product bearing surfaces defining a product receiving cavity. The product receiving cavity has an open bottom end through which the product is received and an opposing top end. An axial deflection member is disposed over the top end of the receiving cavity. The axial deflection member is an arc-shaped elastic material member arching over the top end of the product receiving cavity. In one embodiment, the cushion apparatus further includes multiple radial deflection members extending radially from the base member to define a multi-sided bearing support perimeter having multiple corners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher J. Sattora, Eric A. Stegner, Robert W. Stegner
  • Patent number: 7648031
    Abstract: The invention provides a symmetrical, corrugated fibreboard blank which can be folded into an insert configured to be received within a shipping container. A product can be protected and secured by the insert. The symmetrical design results in ease and speed of assembly regardless of the orientation of the blank along the end user's packaging assembly line. The 5-sided shape of the insert produces void spaces that the products cannot reach, thus creating natural air cells within the insert. The ends, tabs and panels of the insert also provide for minimal movement of the product within the insert and further provide layers of cushioning upon impact. The insert can secure a variety of different sized products, is environmentally friendly, inexpensive and space-saving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: International Paper Company
    Inventor: David F. Kari
  • Patent number: 7628277
    Abstract: A container according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention provides an outer shell and an insert, which is sized, shaped and configured to at least partially enclose an article secured thereto during shipping and storing. The outer shell is of a conventional box construction, preferably an FOL container. The insert is preferably constructed of corrugated paperboard and includes a bottom wall panel to which the article is secured, at least one endwall panel having at least one gusset-forming flap extending therefrom and at least one extension flap defining a fold-over flap which can be secured to a portion of the endwall flap for the purpose of enclosing the corner portions of the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: International Paper Company
    Inventor: Richard A. Zietlow
  • Publication number: 20090266739
    Abstract: A resiliently deformable shield is affixed to the exterior of an enclosure, housing one or more internal components. The resiliently deformable shield is fashioned with one or more recesses that allow the shield to deform and deflect impact force away from the enclosure walls. Apertures may be fashioned in the shield walls for receiving fasteners that are used affix the shield with respect to the enclosure housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: LINCOLN GLOBAL, INC.
    Inventor: Michael A. Kindig
  • Publication number: 20090260329
    Abstract: A packing insert for disc-shaped objects comprising a ring and a deformable contacting portion supported by the ring and extending from a circumference of the ring. The contacting portion can comprise one or more solid portions extending from the circumference. The solid portions can define a plurality of radially arranged members separated by a plurality of void regions, where the solid portions extending radially from a circumference of the ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventors: Rolando Ochoa, Ismael Tamez, Albert Winston Escusa
  • Patent number: 7584852
    Abstract: A bottle shipping protector employs a flexible flange member adapted to move as biased against a bottle to accommodate a wide variety of bottle configurations for shipping with minimal movement of the bottle relative to the shipping protector, minimizing abrasion of the bottle labels and capsules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Western Pulp Products Co.
    Inventors: Sean M O'Brien, Richard B Hurley, Mark W Betts
  • Patent number: 7566877
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which an impact absorbing material is affixed to a transportable device to protect the transportable device from impact with another object. In some embodiments, the impact absorbing material is a crumple zone material that has plastic deformation characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventor: Vivek Bhatt
  • Patent number: 7565998
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a container and container blank for shipping and displaying product that are generally flat and round. In accordance with the present invention, a single sheet of foldable material is cut and scored to define a container blank. The blank includes a variety of panels, flaps and tabs, that when erected, form a container that includes an interior volume having gussets in the corners. The gusseted corners provide a contact surface for product stability within the container. Likewise, the gussets provide overall stability and increased strength to the container. The container includes top panels that close the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: International Paper Company
    Inventor: Jack A McClure
  • Publication number: 20090184027
    Abstract: A protective container (10) wherein a flexible wall (14) is connected to a base (20) and a cap (26). Deflection of the flexible wall (14) buffers the contents of the container (10) against impacts and is limited by the rate of air flow between one end of the flexible wall (14) and a cap (26) that closes container (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: Rose Plastic USA, L.P.
    Inventors: Kevin W. Dawson, Peter Hess, Mathias L. Weinzen, JR.
  • Publication number: 20090078608
    Abstract: A container packing filler (1) includes an annular roll portion (3) formed by folding one of axially opposite end portions of a stretchable tubular net (2) radially outward and rolling the net (2) toward the other end portion of the net (2), and a rigid holder portion (4) provided at the other end portion of the net (2). The holder portion (4) has a necessary and sufficient axial length and a maximum width (W) greater than the diameter (R) of a center hole (5) of the annular roll portion (3) so that, when the holder portion (4) of the packing filler (1) is squeezed into the center hole (5) of the annular roll portion (3), the annular roll portion (3) is expanded from the inside thereof by the holder portion (4) and layers of the annular roll portion (3) are unitarily rolled inward. Therefore, the bulging of only the outermost layer of the annular roll portion is prevented which may otherwise occur when the holder portion is squeezed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventors: Shinji Hiramoto, Yasuyuki Shiraishi, Kenji Ohnishi, Kouichi Yoshimi
  • Publication number: 20090045097
    Abstract: A non-form fitting fabric pouch for protecting flat screens from damage white moving or shipping. A method for protecting flat screens from damage white moving or shipping, comprising placing a pouch of fabric over a flat computer monitor, and alternatively additionally comprising placing the covered screens on the shelf of a cart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Wayne Moss, Ken Pollock
  • Patent number: 7452316
    Abstract: A packing product and apparatus and method for manufacturing same are disclosed. The packing product includes at least one face sheet and at least one crumpled sheet pad attached to the face sheet. A package and method of packaging an article are also disclosed, the package including a container, one or more crumpled sheet pads positioned in the container, one or more face sheets positioned adjacent to the crumpled sheet pads, and an article positioned in the container in at least partial abutting relation to the one or more face sheets. The one or more face sheets may have portions that are folded to envelop the article. Also, the face sheet may include an opening having a pattern corresponding to a shape of the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Ranpak Corp.
    Inventors: Hubertus Y. M. Cals, Erwin R. J. Methorst, Koen Kuypers, Pierre H. G. Kobben
  • Patent number: 7448495
    Abstract: A cushion for use in the transportation of an article of electronic equipment in a carrying case includes a plurality of bolsters. A bolster is disposed so as to diagonally traverse the corner where the side wall of the carrying case meet to provide a shock absorbing bolster at each corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: BBS Licensing, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard D. Sadow
  • Patent number: 7395931
    Abstract: A device for extending an event time of a physical shock imparted on an electronic device. The device includes a rigid or semi-rigid frame and a resiliently elastic material coupled to the frame, the resiliently elastic material suspending an electronic device with respect to the frame. The resiliently elastic material may be in the form of a sheet, a strap, a rib, and combinations thereof. One preferred resiliently elastic material is a polymeric material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Hitachi Global Storage Technologies Netherlands B.V.
    Inventors: Donald Ray Gillis, Norbert A. Feliss, Andrei Khurshudov
  • Patent number: 7383953
    Abstract: Provided is a shipping container having a flexible outer casing, a shell insert that is removeably received within the casing's interior and a tillable insert removeably disposed within an interior of the shell for receiving a shipping parcel. The fillable insert structure may be filled with a medium, such as air, to provide a cushioned environment for the parcel, and the shell insert may include a shelf panel which supports an accessory compartment for receiving selected items to accompany the parcel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Eggs Overnight, Inc.
    Inventor: Kent H. Dickinson