Plural Extensions Mechanically Interlocked With Each Other Patents (Class 229/155)
  • Patent number: 11745912
    Abstract: An exemplary, nonlimiting embodiment of the present disclosure provides a box, as well as a method of use for the box, which may be opened and closed without substantially damaging the structural integrity of the box. The box comprises a segmental lid, which comprises of a first, second, third, and fourth flap. The first and fourth flaps further comprise a first and second pivotable tab, respectfully. The pivotable tabs are pivotally configurable and are preferably configured to be oriented in substantially opposing directions, relative to one another when the first and fourth flap are disposed in the same plane. The pivotable to allow for the flaps to be disposed in a closed position without damaging the box. The method comprises disposing the flaps into their respectively closed positions such that they may be subsequently re-opened without compromising the structural integrity of the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2022
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Inventor: Tonya Richardson
  • Patent number: 10787307
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a dispensing assembly and method for manufacturing same. The dispensing assembly includes a container having a plurality of exterior panels that define an internal chamber. Further, the exterior panels include a top panel having an opening configured to dispense a plurality of articles therethrough. The dispensing assembly also includes an article dispensing component housed within the internal chamber. The article dispensing component includes a base panel arranged with the top panel of the container so as to form an article storage area. Thus, the article storage area is configured to receive the plurality of articles. Further, the base panel is biased towards the top panel via one or more flexible members that are secured to the top panel. Accordingly, the flexible members are configured to allow movement of the base panel toward to the top panel as each article is dispensed from the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: O&M Halyard, Inc.
    Inventors: Shantilal Hirjibhai Modha, Tantima Saelim, Khoa Tuan Lien
  • Patent number: 9914582
    Abstract: A packaging for a window comprising a folded sheet member and at least one fastener or bonder for interconnecting different sections of the sheet member for the formation of a box, where two lid sections are each connected to a side section of the sheet member. The sum of the widths of the lid sections is substantially equal to the width of a receiving section intended for carrying the window and the lid sections have different widths. The width of each lid section corresponds to at least ¼ of the width of the receiving section. Preferably, the packaging comprises an indication that it should be opened at the joint between the two lid sections and one of the lid sections preferably has a standard width regardless of the size of the packaging, preferably approximately 40 cm. A packed window and a method for packing a window is also part of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: VKR Holding A/S
    Inventor: Christian Taulov Jørgensen
  • Patent number: 9340347
    Abstract: A pack for smoking articles is disclosed. The pack comprises a lid (9) and a body (2) configured to move relative to one another. The lid has a front wall (13) with a lower front wall edge (15) and a tab (20) extending from the lower front wall edge which is adhered to a front panel (3) of the body. The tab (20) includes a line of weakening (23) that is broken to initially open the pack such that at least a portion of the tab remain adhered to the front panel of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: BRITISH AMERICAN TOBACCO (INVESTMENTS) LIMITED
    Inventor: Steven Holford
  • Patent number: 9272806
    Abstract: The storage box is formed from a sheet provided with a plurality of folding lines defining a parallelepiped provided with six faces. One of the faces is a hinged lid, and it is characterised in that the opposed face to the hinged lid comprises a first sector provided with an oblique folding line that defines a first joining zone. A second sector also provided with an oblique folding line that is joined to the first sector in the first joining zone; and a third sector is provided with an oblique folding line that defines a second joining zone; and a fourth sector that is joined to the third sector in the second joining zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: Embalajes Capsa, S.L.
    Inventor: Manuel Lopez Masague
  • Publication number: 20150115023
    Abstract: A blank of sheet material for forming a polygonal container is provided. The blank includes two end panels, two side panels, and four corner panels connected in series along a plurality of fold lines. The blank further includes a plurality of bottom panels each extending from one panel of the end panels and the side panels. The plurality of bottom panels is configured to define a locking slot and a locking tab that is insertable into the locking slot to form a bottom wall of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2015
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventors: David Joe Brundage, Kenneth Charles Smith
  • Patent number: 8931686
    Abstract: A blank of sheet material for forming a polygonal container is provided. The blank includes two end panels, two side panels, and four corner panels connected in series along a plurality of fold lines. The blank further includes a plurality of bottom panels each extending from one panel of the end panels and the side panels. The plurality of bottom panels is configured to define a locking slot and a locking tab that is insertable into the locking slot to form a bottom wall of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Rock-Tenn Shared Services LLC
    Inventors: David Joe Brundage, Kenneth C. Smith
  • Patent number: 8925795
    Abstract: A container having a locking closure and a method of forming the locking closure. The container includes bottom, side and top walls and at least one of the walls being an opening wall formed of panels which provide an opening to an interior of the container and which overlap to provide the locking a closure of the opening wall. In a closed condition of the container, a bottommost panel of the opening wall is partially overlapped by adjacent panels of the opening wall and a topmost panel of the opening wall located opposite the bottommost panel partially overlaps the adjacent panels and the bottommost panel. A tab of the bottommost panel is lifted upwardly to partially overlap the topmost panel to form the locking closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: York Container Company
    Inventor: Troy Little
  • Publication number: 20140263600
    Abstract: Disclosed are reclosable and stackable food trays formed from a single blank that are capable of being folded and glued on standard machinery. Embodiments of the invention include raised gussets that extend beyond the top edge of the side panels of the formed tray and beyond the top of the formed tray. In some embodiments, the raised gussets help prevent distortion in all dimensions and facilitate the stacking of multiple trays on top of one another such that the stacked trays cannot slide off the lower tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Rock-Tenn Shared Services,LLC.
    Inventor: John Valencia
  • Patent number: 8763887
    Abstract: An octagonal container for food, such as suitable for keeping or packaging tostadas, manufactured from a carton blank, is formed of eight sections or sides which includes at one end a flap with adhesion thereon that is joined to an opposite flap. The container also has edges located on top and bottom sides that are folded and joined towards the center of the container. The top part of the container is structured to form what appears to be a flower upon closure which provides a very attractive characteristic for the consumer. The container also has a practical, new, and easy closing system, so that when opening the container, it is only necessary to pull the opening flaps outward. To close the container, it is only necessary to press such flaps to the center and inwards and the container will be kept sealed. When closing the container, a “sinking” is formed in the top part of the container which acts as a cushion so that the product in the container is kept in good condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Grupo Fiesta Charra, S.A. DE C.V.
    Inventor: Ismael Palacios Nieto
  • Patent number: 8701975
    Abstract: A support mechanism for a container includes a container coupling mechanism, a flap overlap mechanism and an attachment mechanism. The container coupling mechanism is configured to couple to a distal end of a first flap of the container. The flap overlap mechanism is configured to overlap a second flap of the container when the first flap and the second flap are in a closed position, such that the second flap is between an interior portion of the container and the flap overlap mechanism in the closed position. The attachment mechanism is configured to selectively maintain the first flap and the second flap in the closed position. The support mechanism supports a greater force applied in a direction normal to a plane formed by the first flap and second flap in the closed position than a force supported by the first flap and the second flap without the support mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: Norma Farris
  • Patent number: 8668132
    Abstract: The storage box is formed from a sheet provided with a plurality of folding lines defining a parallelepiped provided with six faces, one of said face being a hinged lid (2), and it is characterized in that the opposed face to said hinged lid comprises a first sector (1a) provided with an oblique folding line (7a) that defines a first joining zone (8a); a second sector (1b) also provided with an oblique folding line (7b) that is joined to said first sector (1a) in said first joining zone (8a); a third sector (1c) provided with an oblique folding line (7c) that defines a second joining zone (8c); and a fourth sector (1d) that is joined to said third sector (1c) in said second joining zone (8c). It permits to obtain a box that can be mounted by itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Embalajes Capsa, S.L.
    Inventor: Manuel Lopez Masague
  • Patent number: 8490858
    Abstract: A reinforced cross laminated corrugated paperboard bulk container has an outer component with corrugations running in a first direction, and an inner liner laminated to the outer component, with the liner having corrugations extending perpendicular to the corrugations in the outer component. Reinforcing strands are in both the liner and the outer component, extending perpendicular to the respective corrugations thereof. Interlocking top flanges are on the top edges of the outer component, and interlocking bottom flanges are on the bottom edges thereof. The interlocking bottom flanges include a chevron shaped locking slot in one flange and a locking tab on an opposed bottom flange. Folds extend across the bottom flanges to enable them to deflect and slide relative to one another during set up of the container. Vertical scores in the liner are pre-broken prior to laminating it to the outer component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: International Paper Company
    Inventors: Ronald D. Timbrook, Ryan M. Myers, William F. Moss, Marty Patrickus
  • Patent number: 8469258
    Abstract: A reinforced cross laminated corrugated paperboard bulk container has an outer component and an inner liner laminated to the outer component with the liner having corrugations extending perpendicular to the corrugations in the outer component. The bottom edges of the sidewalls include a first pair of flaps and a second pair of flaps each of which foldably extend outwardly therefrom and wherein each of the second pair of flaps having a pair of spaced apart triangularly shaped slots formed therein and wherein each of the first pair of flaps includes a pair of locking tabs formed on opposed end of the respective first pair of flaps which are engaged with the slots on the second pair of the flaps to securely close the bottom of the container. Vertical scores in the liner are pre-broken prior to laminating it to the outer component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: International Paper Company
    Inventors: Ronald D. Timbrook, Ryan M. Myers, William F. Moss, Marty Patrickus
  • Patent number: 8459537
    Abstract: Easy reclosing system for a container (1) of dry foodstuffs comprising a first flap (2) and a second flap (3) designed to overlap at least partially to obtain the closure of the container (1), where the first flap (2) has a first hooking edge (2a) extending longitudinally and having a substantially rectilinear external profile, while the second flap (3) has a second hooking edge (3a) whereon a tongue (4) is formed along the external profile by means of two lateral notches (5) at the sides of the tongue, defining a respective lateral portion (6); the profile of the tongue (4), of the notches (5) and of the lateral portions (6) lying along the external perimeter profile of the hooking edge (3a) of the same second flap (3), said tongue (4) being configured in such a way as to overlay a corresponding portion of the first hooking edge (2a) of the first flap (2) with said lateral portions (6) arranged below said first edge (2a), when the two flaps (2,3) lie substantially on the same plane, so as to obtain a reusabl
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Barilla G. e R. Fratelli S.p.A.
    Inventors: Roberto Moglia, Michele Amigoni, Mario Innocente
  • Publication number: 20130032632
    Abstract: A shipping container has a lid locked using pressure, rather than friction. The container includes front and rear side panels and a lid. The lid has a positive locking tab for engaging with a slot in the front side panel. The tab has a greater length than the slot. An end of the tab and an edge of the lid form a notch therebetween. In an embodiment, a corrugated paperboard blank is folded to approximate the lid to the front side panel. The lid is folded along an angled score line, rotating the tab with respect to the slot so that an end of the tab engages the slot and the front panel at an end of the slot engages the notch. The lid is folded to rotate the tab in the opposite direction; the tab then engages with the slot, the end of the tab extending beyond the slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventor: Gerald Christopher Earnshaw
  • Patent number: 8079119
    Abstract: A disposable casket is made from a one piece unitary blank of a foldable sheet material. The blank is folded to form the disposable casket having a bottom wall, opposite side walls and opposite end walls. Each side wall has a top panel that folds inwardly where the outer edges overlap and interlock with each other. Each end wall has a side flap that is superimposed on a respective side wall. A top end panel is connected to each end wall by a fold line which folds over the respective end of the top panels and interlocks with the top panels to retain the top panels and top end panels in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Joseph G. Ferko, III
  • Patent number: 8061586
    Abstract: A package for comestible products is provided. The package includes a front wall having a slot, a rear wall, a bottom wall and opposing sidewalls. The walls define a package interior and the rear wall includes a movable flap having a protruding member extending from the rear wall. The protruding member is adapted to engage the slot on the front wall and enclose the package interior. The front wall may include a cut-out area to guide the protruding member into the slot. The package may include a debossed area and an embossed area adjacent to and surrounding the slot on the front wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company
    Inventors: Heather L. Fluegel, Jason Billig, Charles Curtiss, Stuart Leslie
  • Publication number: 20110192891
    Abstract: A support mechanism for a container includes a container coupling mechanism, a flap overlap mechanism and an attachment mechanism. The container coupling mechanism is configured to couple to a distal end of a first flap of the container. The flap overlap mechanism is configured to overlap a second flap of the container when the first flap and the second flap are in a closed position, such that the second flap is between an interior portion of the container and the flap overlap mechanism in the closed position. The attachment mechanism is configured to selectively maintain the first flap and the second flap in the closed position. The support mechanism supports a greater force applied in a direction normal to a plane formed by the first flap and second flap in the closed position than a force supported by the first flap and the second flap without the support mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Norma Farris
  • Publication number: 20110095074
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a polygonal container having at least five interconnected body panels and a blank for making the polygonal container. The ends of the polygonal container are provided with a plurality of pie-shaped triangular sections that can provide unique decorative experience to the user of a consumer product contained and dispensed from therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventor: Jerry Ray Stephens
  • Patent number: 7669753
    Abstract: The invention provides a foldable box design having a box flap locking system, comprising: a first flap having an edge with a generally trapezoidal shaped tab cut therein, wherein said generally trapezoidal shaped tab is defined by two inwardly projecting grooves; and a second flap that locks with the first flap, wherein the second flap includes an edge with a second generally trapezoidal shaped tab cut therein, and wherein said second generally trapezoidal shaped tab is defined by two outwardly projecting grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Norampac Schenectady, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas West
  • Patent number: 7597239
    Abstract: A paper box or carton includes front, rear and side panels with the upper portions of the side panels being configured to deform inwardly when the upper portions of said front and rear panels are brought together. In this way, a holding area is created between an inside face of a side panel and an inside face of the front panel. This holding area decreases in size as the front and rear panels are brought closer together. Each of the front and rear panels includes a flap adjacent the top portion thereof which are positionable in the holding area as the front and rear panels are moved toward each other. The flaps include distal edges that interlock with each other to maintain the upper portion of the front and rear panels together to form a closed tapered top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Dee Paper Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay M. Dee, Kevin Harrell
  • Patent number: 7565997
    Abstract: An apparatus for the containment of food items and for the optional transport of various types of beverage containers includes a bottom panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, a third side panel, a fourth side panel, a first top panel, a second top panel, a third top panel, and a fourth top panel that are formed of a single sheet of stock and which, when folded along predetermined crease lines, cooperate to provide a serving tray for the retention of the food items in an interior portion and, if desired, a soda can or other beverage container or object in the interior portion and, if desired, a tapered beverage container can be secured to the apparatus at an exterior location. The apparatus is able to secure certain types of beverage containers thereto while still providing a covering over the food items that are disposed in the interior portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventor: Edmond Heng Lim
  • Publication number: 20090072017
    Abstract: The invention provides a foldable box design having a box flap locking system, comprising: a first flap having an edge with a generally trapezoidal shaped tab cut therein, wherein said generally trapezoidal shaped tab is defined by two inwardly projecting grooves; and a second flap that locks with the first flap, wherein the second flap includes an edge with a second generally trapezoidal shaped tab cut therein, and wherein said second generally trapezoidal shaped tab is defined by two outwardly projecting grooves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas West
  • Patent number: 7407088
    Abstract: A cardboard blank for constructing a first larger size food storage box and also constructing a smaller size food storage box is provided. The blank includes a first plurality of panels foldably connected to one another along a plurality of primary fold lines in order to foldably construct the larger box, and further includes a series of tearable line elements for defining removable portions of the blank and a second smaller blank. The second smaller blank includes a second plurality of panels foldably connected to one another along a plurality of secondary fold lines in order to foldably construct the smaller box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Inventors: Amy Hafkin, David Ashen
  • Publication number: 20080035716
    Abstract: A cardboard blank for constructing a first larger size food storage box and also constructing a smaller size food storage box is provided. The blank includes a first plurality of panels foldably connected to one another along a plurality of primary fold lines in order to foldably construct the larger box, and further includes a series of tearable line elements for defining removable portions of the blank and a second smaller blank. The second smaller blank includes a second plurality of panels foldably connected to one another along a plurality of secondary fold lines in order to foldably construct the smaller box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Amy Hafkin, David Ashen
  • Patent number: 7278565
    Abstract: The invention provides a foldable box design having a box flap locking system, comprising: a first flap having an edge with a generally trapezoidal shaped tab cut therein, wherein said generally trapezoidal shaped tab is defined by two inwardly projecting grooves; and a second flap that locks with the first flap, wherein the second flap includes an edge with a second generally trapezoidal shaped tab cut therein, and wherein said second generally trapezoidal shaped tab is defined by two outwardly projecting grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Norampac Schenectady, Inc
    Inventor: Thomas West
  • Patent number: 7021525
    Abstract: A blank for forming a carton. The blank includes a first major panel, a second major panel, a first minor panel, a first closure flap, and a second closure flap. The first minor panel is connected between the first and second major panels. The first closure flap is connected to a first end of the first major panel and extends therefrom to a leading edge. The first closure flap includes a central region forming a tuck slot that is open relative to the leading edge. The second closure flap extends from a first end of the second major panel and forms a tab. The tuck slot is adapted to selectively receive the tab in a carton formed by the blank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: General Mills, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick T. Jouppi, Stephen J. Surmik
  • Patent number: 6926195
    Abstract: A retaining structure for securing first and second flaps of a box structure in an overlapping, closed condition comprising a first tab pliably coupled to the first flap and defining a free end having a substantially circular shape and an a complementary aperture having a shape and size substantially the same as the free end and disposed in substantial alignment with the free end when the first and second flaps are in the overlapping condition. The tab and aperture cooperate when the tab is pivoted so as to be retainably received by the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: World Kitchen (GHC), LLC
    Inventors: Edward Rhyne, Jonathan Videtti
  • Patent number: 6863212
    Abstract: A container is provided with a simple opening and closure mechanism which provides for easy reclosure of the container. A user may grasp a reclosable flap and move the flap between open and closed positions to effect opening and closure of the container. The reclosable flap may overlay a container lid such that the container lid is kept in a closed position when the reclosable flap overlays the container lid with the reclosable flap in its closed position. The container may be open and closed several times, and a seal may be maintained in the vicinity of the reclosable flap even after multiple uses of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Caraustar Custom Packaging
    Inventors: James L. Stone, Thomas J. Brink, Scott A. Lampe
  • Publication number: 20040182916
    Abstract: A reclosable food container is created from a unitary blank. The container includes a bottom panel, a first lateral side panel extending from the bottom panel; a first opposing side panel extending from the bottom panel on an opposing side to the first lateral side panel; a second lateral side panel extending from the bottom panel; a second opposing side panel extending from the bottom panel on an opposing side to the second lateral side panel; a plurality of foldable gussets, each gusset hingedly connecting two adjacent side panels; a first closure panel extending from the first lateral side panel, the first closure panel comprising a first hook closure device; and a second closure panel extending from the first opposing side panel, the second closure panel comprising a second hook closure device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventor: Steven H. Roseth
  • Publication number: 20030164397
    Abstract: An enhancement in disposable packaging for several types of food, made of a relatively hard laminate material, such as a plastic paper card in both sides. A series of cuts and creases form a pyramidal torso box with four upper closing brims. Two of the brims are folded over one another, with the other two likewise folded over one another. The brims comprise edges which present a crease and a tip in hook, respectively, corresponding to complete the closing of the pyramidal box. In addition, two equal triangular-shaped brims are formed in two opposite sides of the box, also assisting in completing the box configuration. In the preferred embodiment, the triangular brims comprise free edges folded by a vertical cut, so that such edges are juxtaposed when the two brims are lifted against the corresponding lateral wall of the box. At such point, each brim receives a soldering line or a thermo-soldered line along the side and upper edges thereof, creating a tight and secure closure and seal of such area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Shiba Robinson
  • Publication number: 20030155411
    Abstract: A blank is provided for the construction of a file storage box, the blank being formed from a single sheet of material, and having first and second substantially identical rectangular panels (1, 10) joined together by a third rectangular panel (8) at respective first and second fold lines (9, 11). Fourth and fifth substantially identical rectangular panels (2, 3) are joined to the first panel (1) at opposite sides thereof by third and fourth fold lines (4, 5) at right-angles to the first fold line (9). Sixth and seventh substantially identical rectangular panels (12, 13) are joined to the second panel (10) at opposite sides thereof by fifth and sixth fold lines (14, 15) at right-angles to the second fold line (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventors: Roberto Yango Soteriou, Piero Theodore Soteriou
  • Publication number: 20030111521
    Abstract: A package that is movable between a collapsed position and an uncollapsed position is formed from at least three panels coupled to one another to form a panel assembly. A series of lower flaps are coupled the lower edges of the panels and interlock to form a permanent closure at a lower end of the panel assembly. A foldable flap coupled to one of the panels and interlocking with another of the panels to form an openable closure at the upper end of the panel assembly. The enclosure formed by the panels, the lower flaps and the upper flaps is foldable into a generally flat collapsed configuration in a plane containing a folding axis that is provided in the permanent closure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventor: Gordon W. Holmes
  • Publication number: 20020170950
    Abstract: A self-locking gift box is disclosed, which includes a decorative element incorporated in the box closure. The unique box closure is adaptable to numerous shapes and sizes of gift boxes having a rectangular opening. The closure incorporates a pair of slotted and opposed, interlocking closure flaps, each of which has a decorative end portion. For one embodiment of the invention, the end portions are shaped so that, together, they form a generally circular bow-like pattern. The end portions may be printed with the image of a bow to enhance the effect. Additionally, the end portions can be die cut to provide multiple tabs, each of which can be bent upwardly to enhance the three-dimensional effect. For another embodiment, the end portions are shaped so that each includes one or more hearts. Other comparable patterns and designs are also contemplated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: Elias R. Escamila
  • Patent number: 6478216
    Abstract: Packaging suitable for food products has at least one wall which is formed in a semi-rigid material such as cardboard and has at least one edge defining an opening for inserting articles, in particular foods, and at least one first flap articulated to that edge along a folding line. The packaging can be conformed into a service configuration in which the flap uncovers the opening and a first storage configuration in which the flap closes the opening. The wall includes reversible deformation arrangements for conforming the packaging into a second storage configuration in which the first flap clamps the wall in a substantially sealed manner along the folding line and in the area of the edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Dailycer
    Inventor: Laurent Wiart
  • Patent number: 6394336
    Abstract: An adjustable container includes top, bottom and four side panels. Each of the four side panels is scored along at least one longitudinal score line extending substantially parallel to the top and bottom panels. Two of the opposing side panels are scored along oblique score lines, each oblique score line extending from one corner of the side panel toward and intersecting the longitudinal score line. The height of the container is adjustable by folding the side panels inwardly toward the interior of the container along the longitudinal and oblique score lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Motion Design, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Beneroff, Eric Kim, Jeffrey A. Smith
  • Patent number: 6386441
    Abstract: Embodiments of a pizza container are described using a container blank formed from a single piece of paperboard material. The container includes a bottom panel, first and second opposing side wall panels, and first and second opposing end wall panels. Each container further includes two top cover panels that fold over onto the container and act as lids. At least one U-shaped cut is formed along a hinge line connecting a top cover panel with an end wall panel. The U-shape has a closed side and an open side. The cut is oriented with the closed side extending into either the first end wall panel or the first top cover panel. The open side is positioned along the first hinge line. As assembled, the U-shaped portion is generally perpendicular with the panel from which it was formed. Various embodiment of lock mechanisms are described as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Weyerhaeuser Company
    Inventor: Nicholas A. Philips
  • Patent number: 6349876
    Abstract: This invention provides a collapsible box made of corrugated plastic, which has improved hinge line/score line configurations between walls and panels and improved hand holds. A plastic box of this invention preferably has an automatically lockable bottom to facilitate erection of the box, and can be easily collapsed for return shipment and reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Technology Container Corporation
    Inventor: Fred Dowd
  • Publication number: 20010032874
    Abstract: Embodiments of a pizza container are described using a container blank formed from a single piece of paperboard material. The container includes a bottom panel, first and second opposing side wall panels, and first and second opposing end wall panels. Each container further includes two top cover panels that fold over onto the container and act as lids. At least one U-shaped cut is formed along a hinge line connecting a top cover panel with an end wall panel. The U-shape has a closed side and an open side. The cut is oriented with the closed side extending into either the first end wall panel or the first top cover panel. The open side is positioned along the first hinge line. As assembled, the U-shaped portion is generally perpendicular with the panel from which it was formed. Various embodiment of lock mechanisms are described as well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Applicant: Weyerhaeuser Company
    Inventor: Nicholas A. Philips
  • Patent number: 6257484
    Abstract: A collapsible box made of corrugated plastic, which has improved hand holds in its side walls. The hand holds are formed by U-shaped lines cut through the plastic and having downwardly concave ends on the cut line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Technology Container Corporation
    Inventor: Fred Dowd
  • Patent number: 6237840
    Abstract: A fiberboard blank for making a container is disclosed. The blank has a first, a second, a third and a fourth side panel. A first, a second, and a third upper flap are foldably connected to the first, second, and third side panels respectively. The first and third side panels have a first and third hand hole and a first and second slot, respectively. The second upper flap has a second hand hole and a first projection. Upon assembly of the container, the first, second, and third hand holes align, the first and second slots align and the first projection is received in the first and second slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Prestolite Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph W. Grabowski, Timothy N. Berelsman, Wesley D. Wiegand
  • Patent number: 6206279
    Abstract: A reclosable, stackable, standable package for food products such as baked goods easily converts from a parallelepiped form to a widened shape on top for easy access to the snack which is contained within an inner liner bag. The package stays in a widened open configuration throughout hand-to-mouth snacking even while resting on its front or back panel. The outer carton of the package has score lines on the front and the back panels of the carton extending from the lower corners of the front and the back panels to the center of the upper edge of the front and the back panels. Score lines also extend across the center of the top front and back flaps. The score lines in combination with the disconnected top flaps design not only allows the top of the package to form a wide oval shaped opening for easy access to the packaged goods, but also allows the package to stay opened while snacking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Nabisco Technology Company
    Inventor: Joseph Countee
  • Patent number: 6189779
    Abstract: A latching mechanism is provided for a container such as a card wallet, folder, small box, small carton, etc. having a closure flap or lid overlying another panel of the container. The container is formed of stiff sheet material such as card stock. Interengaging parts of the latching mechanism are an embossed catch rising from a slit in an under panel and a debossed, stamped out, tongue to engage in the slit in the overlying flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventors: Richard Verdicchio, Michael Cranwell
  • Patent number: 6135347
    Abstract: A corrugated paperboard box has two opposed side panels, connected by two opposed end panels having oblong hand hold holes. The box has an automatic bottom for rapid assembly. Overlapping side top flaps extend from the side panels, and engage with one another to temporarily retain the side top flaps closed on the container. A closure flap extends from each side top flap to overlie portions of the other side top flap and the adjacent side panel. An oblong closure tab extends from a fold line from each closure flap and may be pressed through the hand hold hole to lock the side top flap in the closed condition. Each closure flap has two diagonal fold lines, and is larger than the hand hole into which it extends, such that, once fully inserted, the closure tabs are not readily extracted, thereby retaining the container in a securely closed condition without a requirement for tape, glue, or staples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventor: Charles J. Mueller
  • Patent number: 6109516
    Abstract: A rigid cigarette packet appears as a cupped container with one open end, surmounted by a hinged lid, and is stiffened by a frame anchored firmly to the inside of the container. The frame exhibits a front portion and two lateral portions projecting from the open end, of which the lateral portions are fashioned with respective flaps bent double and presenting a Vee profile when viewed in cross section; when the lid is lowered to cover the open end of the container, the two flaps engage in a snap fit with corresponding flaps incorporated into the flank faces of the lid, ensuring a stable closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: G.D. S.p.A.
    Inventors: Alberto Laghi, Chiara Colo, Fiorenzo Draghetti
  • Patent number: 6102279
    Abstract: This invention provides a collapsible box made of corrugated plastic, which has improved hinge line/score line configurations between walls and panels and improved hand holds. A plastic box of this invention preferably has an automatically lockable bottom to facilitate erection of the box, and can be easily collapsed for return shipment and reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Technology Container Corporation
    Inventor: Fred Dowd
  • Patent number: 6102280
    Abstract: This invention provides a collapsible box made of corrugated plastic, which has improved hinge line/score line configurations between walls and panels and improved hand holds. A plastic box of this invention preferably has an automatically lockable bottom to facilitate erection of the box, and can be easily collapsed for return shipment and reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Technology Container Corporation
    Inventor: Fred Dowd
  • Patent number: 6079616
    Abstract: An adjustable box formed from a blank is disclosed. The box has two rectangular sides; a front panel and a back panel. The front panel and back panel each have two pairs of vertical fold lines on one side thereof, the front pair of vertical fold lines being on the opposite side from the back pair of vertical fold lines. Cooperating flaps including a tongue and groove arrangement are provided to close the box at the top and an automatic setup construction is provided to close the box at the bottom. As a result, the box can be folded along an inner fold line of the front and rear pair of vertical fold lines so that the bottom of the box has a first width. Alternatively, the box can be folded along an outer fold line of the front and rear pair of vertical fold lines so that the bottom of the box has a second width which is smaller than said first width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Avmor Ltd.
    Inventors: Mattie Chinks, Koen De Winter
  • Patent number: 6050483
    Abstract: This invention relates to paperboard containers. Such structures of this type, generally, allow for the container to be formed into a self-locking, pail-like container for holding food stuffs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Westvaco Corporation
    Inventors: Rune Karl Haraldsson, Kenneth James Reeves, Arthur Winfield Twitchell