Interlocking Tab And Slot Patents (Class 493/137)
  • Patent number: 11932451
    Abstract: Methods and systems for integrating multiple portions of a container are provided. The method and system are specifically designed for integrating multiple shell portions with ear lobe-shaped tabs. The method comprises: providing a first set of retention structures to be associated with a plurality of inter-connecting features formed on an edge of a first shell part, wherein the first set of retention structures comprise at least a lead-in feature and a retention feature; providing a second set of retention structures to be associated with a plurality of inter-connecting features formed on an edge of a second shell part, wherein the second set of retention structures comprise at least a deflection feature and a retention feature; and engaging the two shell parts with aid of the retention structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: ECO.LOGIC BRANDS INC.
    Inventors: Julie Corbett, Gregory Rodrigues, Romeo Graham, Robert Watters, Philip Streets, Luc Boucher
  • Patent number: 11628644
    Abstract: A case erector may operate in multiple modes. In a slotted-case mode, the case erector may accept and erect slotted cases, while various plunger-case erection components are deactivated. In a plunger-case mode, the case erector may accept and erect plunger cases, while various slotted-case erection components are deactivated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2023
    Assignee: Fallas Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Maeyaert, David Fallas, Jacob Cox
  • Patent number: 11383887
    Abstract: Methods and systems for integrating multiple portions of a container are provided. The method and system are specifically designed for integrating multiple shell portions with ear lobe-shaped tabs. The method comprises: providing a first set of retention structures to be associated with a plurality of inter-connecting features formed on an edge of a first shell part, wherein the first set of retention structures comprise at least a lead-in feature and a retention feature; providing a second set of retention structures to be associated with a plurality of inter-connecting features formed on an edge of a second shell part, wherein the second set of retention structures comprise at least a deflection feature and a retention feature; and engaging the two shell parts with aid of the retention structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: ECO.LOGIC BRANDS INC.
    Inventors: Julie Corbett, Gregory Rodrigues, Romeo Graham, Robert Watters, Philip Streets, Luc Boucher
  • Patent number: 11192321
    Abstract: A rigid sheet blank includes a first section configured to be bent about a first axis and a second section configured to be bent about a second axis. The first section has a peripheral edge and at least one tab extending from the peripheral edge. The at least one tab is bendable by hand. The second section defines at least one opening configured for receiving a respective one of the at least one tab during bending of the rigid sheet blank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: OVH
    Inventor: Jules Hermann Bonenfant
  • Publication number: 20150060537
    Abstract: In one aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a carton for holding at least one product. The carton includes a plurality of panels that extends at least partially around the interior of the carton. The plurality of panels includes a front panel, a top panel, and a lid panel foldably connected to the top panel. The carton includes a lid pivotably attached to the carton. The lid includes the lid panel and the top panel and is moveable between a closed position wherein the lid panels is positioned in face-to-face contact with the front panel and an open position allowing access to the interior of the carton. The carton includes locking features for releasably attaching the reclosable lid in the closed position. The locking features include at least one male locking portion in the front panel and at least one female locking portion in the lid panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventors: Ronald E. Hajek, Bradley J. Burke
  • Publication number: 20150021227
    Abstract: A packaging tray configured for assembly without staples or other fasteners is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Matthew Coon, Robert J. Fuerst, Brian Mellor
  • Publication number: 20150021226
    Abstract: A packaging box, cutouts, method and device for producing corrugated cardboard boxes comprising walls, a base (6) and a cover (7), the inner face of the base being provided with at least two recesses (33) and the cover comprising at least two tabs (38) adhered to the upper face thereof, directly above the recesses of complementary shape. The recesses and/or the tabs are situated fully inside the corresponding face or faces (31, 32).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Sebastien Jacomelli, Gerard Mathieu
  • Publication number: 20140367458
    Abstract: A blank of sheet material for forming a polygonal container is provided. The blank includes a bottom panel, two opposing side panels, and two opposing end panels. Each side panel extends from a side edge of the bottom panel, and each end panel extends from an end edge of the bottom panel. Each end panel includes at least one major stacking extension extending from a top edge thereof. The blank further includes a reinforcing panel assembly extending from a first side edge of a first end panel of the two end panels. The reinforcing panel assembly includes an inner end panel having a minor stacking extension extending from a top edge thereof. The minor stacking extension is configured to align with a respective major stacking extension to form a stacking tab.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventor: Kenneth Charles Smith
  • Patent number: 8840009
    Abstract: A carton for containing a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels that extends at least partially around an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises a first top panel, a second top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel. The first top panel and the second top panel are at least partially overlapped to form a top wall of the carton. A handle extends in at least the top wall. The handle can comprise at least a first handle portion of the first top panel and a second handle portion of the second top panel. The first handle portion can at least partially overlap the second handle portion, and the second handle portion can comprise a notch that is at least partially overlapped by an overlay portion of the first handle portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignees: Graphic Packaging International, Inc., Adalis Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond R. Spivey, Sr., Robert L. Sutherland, Ronnie J. Huff
  • Patent number: 8800853
    Abstract: A carton for containing a plurality of articles. The carton comprises panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the carton. The panels comprise a top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel. At least one divider panel is in the interior of the carton. The divider panel is attached to at least one of the panels. A dispenser is for allowing access to the articles in the carton. The dispenser is for separating the carton into a first portion and a second portion. At least one of the first portion and the second portion is at least partially closed by the at least one divider panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Graphic Packaging International, Inc.
    Inventor: Kirsten L. Brand
  • Publication number: 20130161378
    Abstract: A gift box for gift cards provides a presentation appearing like gift boxes for other high value products, such as jewelry. With strength, durability, three full dimensions, colors, quality, and design options, it can receive decorations, ribbons, and bows, a to/from card, and the like. Requiring no assembly of components, a single, integrated box includes all parts and configures simply. An interior panel presents a gift card, a debit card pre-loaded with a purchased value. A front flap of the interior panel may tuck down into the box. Alternatively, the panel may be pushed down at the front, leaving the front flap extending straight up, holding the front of the panel downward in place while also serving as an interior, front, wall liner for the box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Inventors: Michael S. Nebeker, Barton J. Seliger, Myla B. Thorn, Ashton J. Seliger
  • Publication number: 20130146649
    Abstract: A carton for containing a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels that extends at least partially around an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises a first top panel, a second top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel. The first top panel and the second top panel are at least partially overlapped to form a top wall of the carton. A handle extends in at least the top wall. The handle can comprise at least a first handle portion of the first top panel and a second handle portion of the second top panel. The first handle portion can at least partially overlap the second handle portion, and the second handle portion can comprise a notch that is at least partially overlapped by an overlay portion of the first handle portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicants: Adalis Corporation, Graphic Packaging International, Inc.
    Inventors: Graphic Packaging International, Inc., Adalis Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130146650
    Abstract: A carton for containing a plurality of articles. The carton comprises panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the carton. The panels comprise a top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel. At least one divider panel is in the interior of the carton. The divider panel is attached to at least one of the panels. A dispenser is for allowing access to the articles in the carton. The dispenser is for separating the carton into a first portion and a second portion. At least one of the first portion and the second portion is at least partially closed by the at least one divider panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: Graphic Packaging International, Inc.
    Inventor: Graphic Packaging International, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130112695
    Abstract: An insulating shipping system may include a container and an insert assembly which may include an insert configured to be inserted into the container. The insert may have a first blank that may include a center panel, two bottom panels emanating from opposite side edges, wherein each bottom panel has at least one slot, at least one top panel emanating from a top edge of each of the bottom panels, wherein each top panel has at least one tab or flange, and at least one foldable line of weakness disposed between each top panel and bottom panel, wherein the at least one slot is sized to receive the at least one tab or flange. The insert further may include a second blank have a center panel, wherein the center panel is configured to couple to the center panel of the first blank to form at least one walled cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: ALPINE THERMAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Christopher E. Hall
  • Publication number: 20120318857
    Abstract: A recyclable container includes a hollow body having an outer surface and an inner surface. The hollow body includes a top end, a bottom end, and at least one side panel. The at least one side panel defines a fitted cutout, and the hollow body defines a cavity interior to the hollow body and about continuous from the top end to the bottom end. The fitted cutout defines an opening from the outer surface to the cavity. A top panel contacts the top end of the hollow body, and a bottom panel contacts the bottom end of the hollow body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: PRATT INDUSTRIES (U.S.A.), INC.
    Inventor: Brandon Charles Miller
  • Patent number: 8323164
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a process for manufacturing sleeves, in particular paper sleeves for the production of paper cups, comprising a take-up mandrel for taking up a sleeve, whereby the take-up mandrel comprises a circumferential recess, also comprising a press roller for placing on an outer side of the sleeve and for forming at least one circumferential projection in the recess of the take-up mandrel. In accordance with the present invention, the recess is designed in the form of a shoulder. Application for example for the production of stackable double-walled paper cups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Michael Hoerauf Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Uwe Messerschmid
  • Publication number: 20120285855
    Abstract: A carton for carrying a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels at least partially extending around an interior of the carton, the plurality of panels comprising at least one bottom panel and at least one side panel foldably connected to the bottom panel. The carton further comprises at least one retention tab foldably connected to the at least one bottom panel. The at least one retention tab is for engaging at least a portion of an article of the plurality of articles, and the at least one retention tab comprises a first portion foldably connected to the bottom panel at a first fold line and a second portion foldably connected to the first portion at a second fold line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Raymond R. Spivey, SR.
  • Publication number: 20120267426
    Abstract: A carrier for holding a plurality of articles. The carrier comprises a plurality of panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises a first bottom panel and a second bottom panel. At least one locking feature comprises a female locking feature in the first bottom panel and a male locking feature in the second bottom panel. The female locking feature comprises a locking flap, and the male locking feature comprises a retention feature. At least a portion of the male locking feature engages the female locking feature, and at least a portion of the locking flap at least partially engages the retention feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Inventors: Timothy W. Hendricks, Raymond R. Spivey, SR.
  • Publication number: 20110294638
    Abstract: A machine to fold a cardboard blank into an open tray, the machine including means to displace a blank from a stack of blanks to a table, means to clamp the blank in a fixed position to the table, folding means to fold up sides and ends of the blank into vertically extending walls, consolidation means to urge overlapping flaps of the sides or ends into slots in the base of the blank and, means to eject the open tray from the machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2009
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Dimitri Tosevski
  • Publication number: 20110272312
    Abstract: A box for holding a book or object having orthogonal corners wherein each corner includes a first surface having a bent ear, a second surface having a fold over flap and a third surface that is formed when the fold over flap of the second surface is folded over the bottom and top edges of the bent ear. The end of the fold over flap has tabs at its end which engage tab receptors which are located in the third surface before it folds over the bottom edge of the bent ear. The tab receptors are cavities which extend only partially through the third surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Dale Clifford Kramer
  • Publication number: 20110259948
    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: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: YORK CONTAINER COMPANY
    Inventor: Troy LITTLE
  • Publication number: 20110210028
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a glyphosate formulation with enhanced viscosity, said formulation containing a thickening composition comprising at least one nitrogen-containing surfactant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventor: Shawn Zhu
  • Publication number: 20110204131
    Abstract: A blank of sheet material for forming a container is provided. The blank includes a first reinforcing end panel extending from a first end panel, a first corner post panel extending from a first edge of the first reinforcing end panel, and a first top end panel defined within the first reinforcing end panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventors: David Joe Brundage, John Robert Huston, Kenneth C. Smith
  • Publication number: 20110072719
    Abstract: A foldable pot cover provides a foldable die cut pattern which can be imprinted on its exterior surfaces with any of a number of designs. The pot cover is formed from a die cut pattern which can be folded into overlapping flaps and tabs which are folded and interlocked to define a generally trapezoidal pot cover which can receive a variety of different pot sizes and types and resists moisture. The die cut pattern forming the pot cover can be of a universal shape but formed in a variety of different sizes to accommodate different sized potted plants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: The John Henry Company, A Multi Packaging Solutions Company
    Inventors: Dennis M. Kaltman, Richard C. Thibault, John R. Widener, Carol J. Moore
  • Publication number: 20100089988
    Abstract: A carton for carrying a plurality of articles and a blank for forming the carton generally include a top panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the top panel, a second side panel foldably connected to the top panel, a first bottom panel foldably connected to the first side panel, the first bottom panel comprising a plurality of female locking openings and having opening flaps adjacent the female locking openings. The opening flaps are foldably connected to the first bottom panel at respective first arcuate fold lines. A second bottom panel is foldably connected to the second side panel. The second bottom panel comprises a plurality of male locking projections. The male locking projections are foldably connected to the second bottom panel at respective second arcuate fold lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Kirsten L. Brand
  • Patent number: 7640775
    Abstract: A sheet of material formed for folding into a three-dimensional structure. The sheet has edges formed with joinder structures, such as dovetails, and a plurality of folding structures, such as slits, grooves or displacements, that control folding of the sheet in a manner causing the joinder structures to be folded into interlocking interengagement. The folding structures are configured for very precise folding of the sheet so that the folding structures will be in precise registered juxtaposition. Additionally, the sheet of material includes a retention structure, such as a retention fold or a retention deformation, which will prevent unfolding of the sheet. A method for fastener-free joining of sheet edges together also is disclosed, as are the resulting three-dimensional structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Industrial Origami, Inc.
    Inventor: Max W. Durney
  • Publication number: 20090173772
    Abstract: This invention is a paperboard box and a lid having a paper with a design placed on the outside surface. The paper is held in position by being glued to the inside of the finished carton. The box or lid has four squared corners. The finished decorative box has adhesive on the interior panels and may be shipped in flat form and erected at or near the point of use. Because the paper is thick it is difficult to form square corners on the box or lid. The box or lid has a paperboard web between a side panel and an end panel which is folded to make a square corner. It has been found that a slit can be cut in the paper bisecting the corner which will allow the paper to be folded without bunching and making an attractive square corner. Once the slit is cut in the paper the side and end panels can be folded to produce a square corner without any bulging paper. The bulging paper is not attractive as a gift-wrap box and also may prevent the locking of the corner as required to form a box and lid with square corners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventor: Timonthy A. Canning
  • Publication number: 20080312054
    Abstract: A stackable and collapsible storage box (100) comprising a foldable wrapper (10) having side wall and end wall panels which are releasably retained within a peripheral channel (30a) on a separate base portion (30). The wall panels have lower extension portions (11, 12) that are folded upwardly to provide a double thickness and these lower extension portions have an upper edge (12a) or apertures (37) that engage with short protrusions (33) formed on an inner wall (32) of the channel to retain the panels. The end wall panels have upper first and second extensions portions (14a, 16) that are respectively folded inwardly and upwardly to provide a support edge (16a) to support hangers for hang files. The support edge can be strengthened with a channel section (19). The box can have a lid (50) has a ridge (53) to compliment channel (36) on the base portion to allow stacking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Brian Timothy Boland
  • Publication number: 20080290149
    Abstract: A carton for containing a plurality of articles. The carton has a plurality of panels end at least partially around an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels at least a first side panel and a second side panel. At least one end flap is connected to the first side panel. The end flap is for folding relative to the first el to at least partially close an end of the carton. At least one locking flap is connected to the at least one end flap. A locking aperture is in the second side r receiving at least a portion of the locking flap when the end flap at least forms the closed end of the carton.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Applicant: Graphic Packaging International, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael D. Sweet
  • Publication number: 20080116199
    Abstract: A collapsible cargo container is configurable into an erected condition and a collapsed condition. The container comprises a base, a pair of opposed side walls hinged to the base, a top hinged to the side walls joined in a unitary ring, a front wall hinged to the base, a back wall hinged to the base, flaps hinged to the side walls and top, and a door formed in one of the walls. Fasteners secure the flaps to the front and back walls when the container is in the erected condition. The front and back walls are collapsible upon the base and the side walls and top are collapsible upon the front and back walls when the container is in the collapsed condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Applicant: BRADFORD COMPANY
    Inventors: Timothy A. Bublitz, Brian T. Dobrinski
  • Patent number: 7278249
    Abstract: An integral, generally rectangular corrugated fibreboard blank folds to form an insert having three air cells for cradling and protecting a product. Two of the air cells stand vertically generally on top of the third air cell at ends thereof. A product rests on the third air cell and is received and captured between the two vertical air cells. The insert, with the product in place, fits into a box where tabs projecting from the insert cooperate with the box to form two more air cells at the opposite ends of the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Fidelity Container Corporation
    Inventor: David F. Kari
  • Patent number: 7021024
    Abstract: An integral, generally rectangular corrugated fibreboard blank folds to form an insert having three air cells for cradling and protecting a product. Two of the air cells stand vertically with the third air cell suspended between them. A product rests on the third air cell and is received and captured between the vertical air cells. The insert, with the product in place, fits into a box where tabs projecting from the insert cooperates with the box to form two more air cells at the opposite ends of the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Fidelity Container Corporation
    Inventor: David F. Kari
  • Patent number: 6849037
    Abstract: A symmetrical preform that provides protection to an equipment component (or other fragile or breakable item), provides ease in use during pre-packing and packing of an equipment component for transport, does not require the need for additional packing components in combination with the packaging assembly, and is economically suited for its end use, is provided for. Accordingly, the present invention provides a method for making an integral, one piece packing assembly having symmetrical characteristics and being comprised of a flexible, corrugated-shaped material that is capable of protectively encapsulating, in a predetermined arrangement, a fragile component to ready for further movement, transport or packaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Robert T. Sanders, Eric A. Stegner, Robert W. Stegner, Robert F. Weisser
  • Patent number: 6802802
    Abstract: A carrier for beverage containers formed of a sheet material such as plastic or paperboard which includes a bottom panel attached to side panels, a pair of opposed end panels connected to the bottom and side panels, and a central handle formed of two halves folded together in a first position for ease in carrying. The handle is pivotal to an open position along its top fold line, allowing the carrier to spread outwardly to form a central cavity capable of holding ice for the purpose of cooling the beverage containers. The top panels are provided with a plurality of openings, for example, six or eight, each of which is adapted to receive a beverage container. The method for forming the beverage container is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: USI International, Inc.
    Inventor: Gunter Woog
  • Patent number: 6689033
    Abstract: Disclosed is a new machine for forming containers of the type described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,497,939 without the use of glue or nails. The machine utilizes a mandrel movably mounted on a path for oscillation between retracted and extended positions. As the mandrel cycles forward, it first receives two synthetic sidewalls and then a deformable body panel of the container to be formed. Then a set of moveable upper and lower rockers containing unique pressure mechanisms press tabs on the horizontally oriented portion of the wrap into corresponding locking slots on the ends of the sidewalls. When the mandrel is fully extended, pressure is applied to the tabs on the vertically oriented middle section of the wrap using a pair of hinge-mounted pressure plates fitted with unique biased brackets. The resulting container is removed from the machine, which is then ready to begin another cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventors: William E. Plemons, Richard Bowers, Ezra E. Theys, Ronald E. Heiskell
  • Publication number: 20040023771
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for pre-fastening disposable absorbent articles having a slot-and-tab fastening system during manufacturing of the pre-fastened disposable articles, such as diapers, pull-on diapers, training pants, adults incontinence pads and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: George S. Reising, Michael D. Trennepohl, Darrell Ian Brown, John Carroll Molander, Jason Matthew Prosek
  • Patent number: 6443308
    Abstract: A two-piece collapsible carrier for food and beverages. The lower carrier has a bottom and four side walls particularly adapted to carrier beverages in different sized containers. The side walls have uppermost edges higher than the tallest beverage containers to be normally carried. An upper food top having a bottom and side walls is carried over said lower carrier with the bottom of said upper tray resting on the uppermost edges of said lower carrier so that in normal use, the attitudes of the tray and beverage carrier remain the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Easy Carry LLC
    Inventor: Paul S. V. Davis
  • Patent number: 6312369
    Abstract: Disclosed is a new machine for forming strong, durable and recyclable containers of the type described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,497,939 without the use of glue or nails which are ready to be loaded, closed, stacked and shipped. The machine utilizes a mandrel movably mounted on a path between retracted and extended positions. As the mandrel cycles forward, it first receives two synthetic sidewalls of the container to be formed, which are firmly compressed against the sides of the mandrel as it moves forward. The mandrel next encounters the body panel or wrap of the container to be formed, said wrap including a plurality of tabs along the edges of its two longer sides which correspond to locking slots on the sidewalls. As the mandrel moves forward, it pushes into the middle of the wrap whereupon a set of plows and shoes bend the upper and lower portions of the wrap into a more horizontal orientation, leaving the middle of the wrap in a vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventors: William E. Plemons, Richard Bowers, Ezra E. Theys, Ronald E. Heiskell
  • Patent number: 6289651
    Abstract: Panel interlocking means secures together first and second panels in overlapping relationship. The first panel comprises a locking tab struck therefrom adjacent the free edge thereof The locking tab extends away from the free edge of the first panel and defines a first aperture in the first panel. The locking tab has a neck portion hinged at its base to the first panel and terminates in its shoulder portion. The second panel includes a second aperture struck therefrom adjacent the free edge thereof. The second aperture receives the locking tab such that when the panels are locked together, the free edge of the second panel is located along the locking tab between the base of the neck portion and the shoulder portion, and the locking tab is engaged with an edge of the first aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: The Mead Corporation
    Inventor: Philippe Le Bras
  • Patent number: 6186931
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus that can erect a tray from a generally flat, rectangular blank. The tray erector incorporates an inventory section, a transfer section, a construction section and an exit section. The inventory section has a hopper with flanges and tab stops, which hopper stores an inventory of stacked, flat blanks that will eventually become the trays. In the transfer section, a blank is transferred from the inventory section to the construction section of the present erector. The construction section includes a setup assembly and a locking assembly. The setup assembly folds the pre-cut and scored end and side panels of the tray blank up into approximately perpendicular planes in relation to the plane of the bottom panel of the blank. The end and side panels are folded up from the plane of the bottom panel of the blank in preparation for the locking of the corner webs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Laminating Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Rodney K. Calvert, Robert L. Dover
  • Patent number: 6012587
    Abstract: A corner protector for protecting a load of products stacked on a pallet. The corner protector includes an upper end and a lower end. The corner protector further comprises first and second panels hingedly connected to each other along a central fold line and disposed generally perpendicular to each other. Each of the first and second panels include an inner layer and an outer layer. The inner layer of the first panel forms a first hinged locking flap disposed generally perpendicular to a remainder of the first panel and the inner layer of the second panel forms a second hinged locking flap disposed generally perpendicular to a remainder of the second panel. The first and second locking flaps are located at approximately the same distance from the upper end and are engaged to one another to maintain the first and second panels generally perpendicular to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Tenneco Packaging Inc.
    Inventor: Larry S. McCullough
  • Patent number: 5868308
    Abstract: An interlocking paperboard carton blank (10) is disclosed. The carton blank has at least one flap (19) projecting from a side dge of a first base panel (14), the flap having a leading portion (20) which is folded about a scored waist section score line (23) back onto the remainder of the flap to double the thickness of the flap. The leading portion of the flap includes at least one, and preferably two laterally projecting portions (21). The flap is inserted folded end first into at least one correspondingly positioned opening (27) defined in a second base panel (15) of the carton blank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Riverwood International Corporation
    Inventor: Nathalie Briand
  • Patent number: 5729964
    Abstract: Flap tucker assembly and cam actuators for tucking and/or closing a box container flap. One or more flap tucker assemblies, the major elements of which include a slider body, a pivotable tucker blade and a face closer assembly, are carried by a tucker transporter system which presents members of the tucker assembly to be reciprocatingly actuated by cam operators to horizontally and transversely actuate the slide body, to vertically actuate the pivotable tucker blade, and to horizontally and transversely actuate the face closer assembly in sequence as the flap tucker assembly is carried parallel to a box container conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Thiele Engineering Company
    Inventor: Barry W. Palmer
  • Patent number: 5662508
    Abstract: A toy building block is constructed by folding an integral paperboard blank. The toy building block includes locking tabs and complementary-shaped openings, with the tabs of one toy building block received in the openings of another toy building block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Assignee: Inland Container Corporation
    Inventor: Mark Andrew Smith
  • Patent number: 5632713
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) is provided for erecting boxes from blanks (11) having sides panels (13) with three score lines (20, 22 and 24). The apparatus has a base plate (40), two side folding mechanisms (44) and two end folding mechanisms (45). The side folding mechanisms have a proximal plate (51) pivotally mounted to the base plate, an intermediary plate (53) pivotally mounted to the proximal plate, and a distal plate (55) pivotally mounted to the intermediary plate. Linkage (68) coupled to a handle (76) actuates the movement of the proximal, intermediary and distal plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Inventors: Timothy A. Canning, Andrew F. Hartman, Ken Williams, Harry R. Elliot, Quentin J. Hendricks
  • Patent number: 5624031
    Abstract: A tray-type package for receiving a series of articles is constructed from a blank which enables the user to vary the size of the horizontal surface on which the articles are placed. The blank includes a bottom panel and a series of side walls which are interconnected with the bottom panel via connection structure which defines a series of fold locations, and the user selects the appropriate fold location according to the size of articles being packaged such that, when a predetermined number of articles are placed on the tray, the outer articles are in close proximity to, or engage, the tray side walls. When the tray side walls are folded at the different fold positions, the position of the adjacent side wall ends varies, and retainer structure is interposed between the side wall ends which accommodates such variation and which secures the side walls together. The retainer structure is an extension section formed on one of the side walls which overlaps the other side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Assignee: Green Bay Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Fowler, Charles E. Wood
  • Patent number: 5613933
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming a shipping and display box of the type having diverter tabs that extend outwardly from the box walls is provided that has a guide plate for supporting a blank used for forming the shipping and display box, a catcher plate used for holding the blank on the forming apparatus, a diverter tab lever for extending the diverter tabs outwardly from the box walls, and an actuator for urging the diverter tab lever against the diverter tabs, the actuator allows the catcher plate to be released after the diverter tabs have been extended from the box walls so that the blank can be removed from the forming apparatus. A method of forming the blank into the shipping and display box is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Assignee: Advanced Container Corporation
    Inventors: Chester J. Pierce, Jr., Ronald E. Heiskell, Ezra E. Theys
  • Patent number: 5611425
    Abstract: A carrier for a plurality of objects arranged in at least two rows includes substantially parallel first and second side walls, substantially parallel first and second end walls interconnecting the side walls, a medial panel extending between and connected to the first and second end walls, the medial panel being disposed between and substantially parallel to the first and second side walls, a primary bottom wall connected and extending between lower portions of said first and second side walls, and a lock for maintaining the carrier in an erect condition, the lock including a lock body connected to a lower edge of the medial panel and depending downwardly therefrom, a first retention tab disposed along a first side edge of the lock body spaced from the medial panel, and a second retention tab disposed along a second side edge of the lock body spaced from the medial panel, whereby the first and second retention tabs define a retention width for the lock extending between the outermost portions of the first an
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Assignee: The Mead Corporation
    Inventor: John M. Holley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5487505
    Abstract: An arrangement in a box is disclosed, the box being, in the initial position, in the form of a sheet-like blank having a bottom (2), first and second sidewalls (4, 6) which are connected to the bottom (2) via fold lines (8, 10) and are substantially parallel panels which are connected to one of the sidewalls (4, 6). The arrangement is characterized in that a flap (32) is formed at a second panel (20) which, via a second fold line (18), is connected to a first, inner panel (16) which is connected to one of the sidewalls (4, 6) via an inner fold line (14), and that a slot (34) is formed in one sidewall (6) connected to the inner panel (16), the slot engaging the flap (32) when the box is erected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Assignee: Bjorkebo Gaard AB
    Inventor: Bo-Arne Nilsson
  • Patent number: 5472138
    Abstract: A wrap-around carrier capable of being tightly drawn about the packaged articles. Locking tabs on the outer bottom panel flap and locking opening flaps on the inner bottom panel flap are folded back to provide surfaces against which oppositely directed forces can push to move the bottom panel flaps into final partially overlapped condition. The locking tabs include a base locking portion which engages an edge of the locking openings and an outer secondary locking portion which extends through an opening in the inner bottom panel flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: Riverwood International Corporation
    Inventor: Steve Ingram