DISPLAY AND STORAGE CONTAINER

Abstract

A container can have a viewing end, a rear end, a top section, and a bottom section. The bottom section can be configured such that the top and bottom sections come together at a border and be attached by a hinge along one portion of the border at the viewing end. The border can be configured such that it is higher at the rear end and lower at the viewing end. Additionally, the hinge can be tearable and the border can form a seam that makes a free rim of the top section unavailable.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of copending application entitled DISPLAY AND STORAGE CONTAINER, Ser. No. 12/038,765, filed on 27 Feb. 2008, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

The disclosed subject matter relates to product packaging.

2. Description of the Related Art

Various food containers are known in the art, but many suffer from inconvenient design features that in many cases frustrate users and detract from the experience of those trying to access the food in these containers. Other containers are also known, but suffer from similar drawbacks.

SUMMARY

In accordance with some embodiments, a display container comprises a top portion, a bottom portion, and a hinge. The top portion can comprise generally triangular side walls, a front viewing face, and a top face. The bottom portion can comprise generally triangular side walls configured to be positioned in the same general plane as the triangular side walls of the top portion, a back face opposite the front viewing face, and a bottom face opposite the top face. The hinge can be provided between the top portion and bottom portion.

In some embodiments the display container can further comprise a securing feature on the bottom portion near the top of the back face and a corresponding securing feature on the top portion near the back of the top face, wherein the hinge is located at the base of the front viewing face. In further embodiments the securing feature on the bottom portion can comprise a receiving portion of a snap and the securing feature on the top portion can comprise an insert portion of a snap. In some embodiments the entire container can be molded as a single piece of plastic, or as separate pieces of plastic. Furthermore, some embodiments can comprise transparent plastic to advantageously allow display of products within the container. In some embodiments the bottom portion can comprise ridges inside the container along the bottom face, the ridges configured to support and space products within the container. In some embodiments the bottom portion can comprise a hinge and a securing feature that connects the top and bottom portions together, the securing feature located opposite the hinge. Furthermore, in some embodiments the securing feature can comprise a sticker that extends across a seam between the top and bottom portions. In some embodiments, the top and bottom portions further can comprise portions that flare out to create a contact interface between the top and bottom portions.

In some embodiments, a clamshell container can comprise a top and bottom section attached by a hinge on one end. The border between the top and bottom can be such that the border is higher at a rear end and lower at a viewing end. The hinge can be located at the viewing end. The bottom of the container can be shaped so as to present at least one product to be stored within the container at an angle. In some embodiments, the top and bottom portions can be connected by a sticker and/or at least one interlocking snap. The top and bottom portions can be connected along the rear end. The connection between the top and bottom portions can be reversibly connected along the rear end. In some embodiments, the container can be configured to hold baked goods. In some embodiments, the border between the top and bottom portions can be straight between the viewing and rear ends. The top and bottom portions further can flare outward where they meet.

In some embodiments, a container can comprise a first section and a second section. The first section can comprise a broad portion oriented horizontally with walls extending upward along its circumference, such that the walls' height is greatest at a rear end and lowest at a viewing end. The second section can comprise a broad portion oriented horizontally with walls extending downward along its circumference, such that the walls' height is greatest at a viewing end and lowest at a rear end. The walls and horizontal portions of the first and second sections can thus define a volume. Additionally, the sections can be attached by a hinge at the viewing end and an additional means to hold the sections together at at least one other point. The first section can be shaped so as to present at least one product to be stored within the container at an angle.

In some embodiments, a method of storing and presenting products can comprise placing products onto a first section. The first section can comprise a broad portion oriented horizontally with walls extending upward along its circumference, such that the wall's height is greatest at a rear end and lowest at a viewing end. A second section can be placed on top of the first section. The second section can comprise a broad portion oriented horizontally with walls extending downward along its circumference so as to meet the walls of the first section. The first and second sections can be attached by a hinge at the viewing end and by a connecting means to hold the sections together at least one other point. The formed container can then be displayed in an orientation such that the hinge is low and proximal to the viewer. In further embodiments, the formed container can be placed on shelves. Additionally or alternatively, the container can be stacked with similar containers.

In additional embodiments, a container can have a viewing end, a rear end, a top section, and a bottom section. The bottom section can be configured such that the top and bottom sections come together at a border and be attached by a hinge along one portion of the border at the viewing end. The border can be configured such that it is higher at the rear end and lower at the viewing end. Additionally, the hinge can be tearable and the border can form a seam that makes a free rim of the top section unavailable.

In another embodiment, a container can have a top and bottom section attached by a hinge on one end. The border between the top and bottom can be such that the border lies in a generally diagonal plane with a higher portion at a rear end and a lower portion at a viewing end. The hinge between the top and bottom sections can be tearable and located at the viewing end. The top and bottom can also form at least one snap adjacent the seam, wherein the snap is generally parallel to the bottom of the container and at an angle with the plane of the border.

In yet another embodiment, a container can have a top and bottom section attached by a hinge. The container can further have a border between the top and bottom such that the border is higher at a rear end and lower at a viewing end. The hinge can be tearable and be located at the viewing end. The top and bottom can have alignment ribs that engage to prevent sliding between two containers stacked on top of each other.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings and the associated descriptions are provided to illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and do not limit the scope of the claims.

FIG. 1 is an elevated perspective view of an embodiment of a container;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the container of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the container of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a side schematic view of how a container can be viewed;

FIG. 6 is a side view of an open container;

FIG. 7 is a side view of showing how a product can be removed from a container;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of another embodiment of an open container;

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of the container of FIG. 8 in a closed position;

FIG. 10 is a top view of the container of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side view of multiple stacked containers; and

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a container;

FIG. 13 is a plan view of the container of FIG. 12 in an open position;

FIG. 14 is a side view of the container of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14A is a side view of an alternative embodiment container, corresponding to FIG. 14;

FIG. 15 is a plan view of the container of FIG. 12;

FIG. 16 is a sectional view of the container of FIG. 15 at 16-16;

FIG. 17 is a sectional view of the container of FIG. 15 at 17-17;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an open container;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 18 in a closed position;

FIG. 20 is a top view of the container of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20A is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 20 at 20A-20A;

FIG. 20B is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 20 at 20B-20B;

FIG. 20C is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 20B at 20C-20C;

FIG. 21 is a bottom view of the container of FIG. 18;

FIG. 22 is a front view of the container of FIG. 18;

FIG. 23 is a rear view of the container of FIG. 18;

FIG. 24 is a side view of the container of FIG. 18;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 18 stacked;

FIG. 25A is a cross-sectional view of the stacked containers of FIG. 25 at 25A-25A;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an open container;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 26 in a closed position;

FIG. 28 is a top view of the container of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28A is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 28 at 28A-28A;

FIG. 28B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 28A at 28B-28B;

FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the container of FIG. 29;

FIG. 30 is a front view of the container of FIG. 26;

FIG. 31 is a rear view of the container of FIG. 26;

FIG. 32 is a side view of the container of FIG. 26;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an open container;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 33 in a closed position;

FIG. 35 is a top view of the container of FIG. 33;

FIG. 35A is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 35 at 35A-35A;

FIG. 35B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 35A at 35B-35B;

FIG. 35C is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 35 at 35C-35C;

FIG. 36 is a rear view of the container of FIG. 33;

FIG. 37 is a front view of the container of FIG. 33;

FIG. 38 is a bottom view of the container of FIG. 33;

FIG. 39 is a side view of the container of FIG. 33.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Although certain preferred embodiments and examples are disclosed below, inventive subject matter extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention, and to modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, the scope of the inventions herein disclosed is not limited by any of the particular embodiments described below. For example, in any method or process disclosed herein, the acts or steps of the method or process may be performed in any suitable sequence and are not necessarily limited to any particular disclosed sequence. For purposes of contrasting various embodiments with the prior art, certain aspects and advantages of these embodiments are described. Not necessarily all such aspects or advantages are achieved by any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, various embodiments may be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other aspects or advantages as may also be taught or suggested herein. The systems and methods discussed herein can be used anywhere.

Containers serve a number of functions aside from simply containing the products therein. Many useful containers allow their contents to be seen prominently. In the context of sales, useful containers present their contents in a flattering, beneficial light. Additionally, containers can provide a reliable means for protecting their contents, whether from external elements such as gases or extreme temperatures, from human elements such as thieves, or other undesirable agents. The embodiments disclosed herein provide many of these beneficial advantages.

FIG. 1 depicts an elevated perspective view of an embodiment of a product container 1. The container 1 comprises a top portion or section 2 and a bottom portion or section 3. The top portion 2 includes two substantially opposing side walls 21, and the bottom portion 3 also includes two substantially opposing side walls 31. The pairs of side walls 21, 31 can have a generally triangular shape, as illustrated. Although these triangular shapes are not pictured as right-triangles having an exact right angle, each still has a side that is longer than the other sides of that triangle and resembles a hypotenuse. On each side of the container 1, one of the side walls 21 can be positioned adjacent to one of the side walls 31 such that the “hypotenuses” of the two triangle shapes are aligned or positioned together. Thus, both full side walls of the container 1 resemble parallelograms formed from two triangles. FIG. 2 shows a plan view of one of the side walls depicting the generally triangular shapes discussed herein.

As further depicted in FIG. 1, the upper portion 2 has a viewing face 22 that extends between the two sides of the triangles forming the side walls 21. The viewing face 22 in the embodiment depicted is substantially rectilinear, but can also comprise other shapes such as a trapezoid, triangle, oval, or any other polyhedron or curved shape. Indeed, none of the shapes or configurations described herein are intended to be limiting, but only to provide example embodiments.

As further depicted in FIG. 1, the upper portion 2 also has a top face 23 forming a broad portion that extends between the side walls 21. The top face 23 can also comprise a rectilinear or non-rectilinear shape, as explained with respect to the viewing face 22.

As further depicted in FIG. 1, the bottom portion 3 also has a back face 33 that extends between the two triangles forming the side walls 31. The back face 33 can also comprise a rectilinear or non-rectilinear shape, as explained with respect to the viewing face 22. The bottom portion 3 can further comprises a base or broad portion. As illustrated, the base is generally opposite the top face 23.

A sticker 11 can be attached to the container 1. The sticker 11 can attach to the top face 23 and extend to the bottom portion 3. Thus, the sticker 11 can secure the top portion 2 and bottom portion 3 together. The top portion 2 can also comprise snaps 5 as a reversible means for securing the top portion 2 and the bottom portion 3. The snaps 5 comprise interlocking ridges that can easily be locked and unlocked by human hands. When combined, the top portion 2 and bottom portion 3 define a shape substantially similar to a parallelepiped. The closed container 1 can also substantially resemble other shapes, such as a cylinder, pyramid, or prism, and still be consistent with the disclosed inventions. Notably, when the closed container 1 does not resemble a parallelepiped, the faces 21-23, 31, 33 may comprise multiple planar sections (e.g. a square cupola) or unclear borders between the faces (e.g. a cylinder).

In some embodiments, the top portion 2 and bottom portion 3 flare out along the seams 6, along the hinge 4, and at the rear end near the snaps 5. When seated against each other, the flared sections of the top and bottom portion can create a seal or an interference fit separating the interior of the container 1 from external elements. Depending on how important it is to provide an air-tight environment in any particular container, the flared sections can be increased, reduced, or eliminated. Other mechanisms can also be used to create a substantial seal including further interlocking ridges and compressible materials.

At the viewing end of some embodiments of the container 1 (defined in this embodiment by the viewing face 22), the top portion 2 and bottom portion 3 are connected at a hinge 4. The hinge 4, the top portion 2, and the bottom portion 3 can all be molded from the same material. The hinge 4 can thus be formed upon folding together the simultaneously molded pieces 2 and 3. However, the hinge 4 can also comprise some other material or apparatus molded with, adhered to, or attached to the top portion 2 and the bottom portion 3. In some advantageous embodiments, the hinge 4 is sufficiently resilient to withstand multiple openings and closings of the container 1. In some embodiments the hinge 4 is advantageously located near the bottom of the container 1, so as not to obstruct the view of the products 8 through the viewing face 22, as shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 5.

At the rear end of the container 1 (opposite the viewing end) the top portion 2 and bottom portion 3 can be connected by a combination of snaps 5 and a sticker 11. A sticker is a desirable method for connecting the top portion 2 and bottom portion 3 because the integrity of the sticker indicates that a container 1 has not been opened since being initially loaded and closed. Thus, one can presume that no one has tampered with the contents of the container 1 and that the contents have not been exposed to external elements. The snaps 5 provide a convenient way to reseal the container 1 after opening it to remove something stored therein. This can allow a user to preserve the freshness of any remaining container contents. Other reversible and irreversible securing means and combinations thereof can be used, including staples, adhesives, Velcro®, or any other means known in the art.

FIG. 2 provides a side view of an embodiment of a container 1. In between the lower and upper corners the top portion 2 and the bottom portion 3 meet along a seam 6 that extends at an angle α relative to the top and bottom of the container 1. As shown a is non-zero and less than 90°. However, other angles are possible. The seam 6 need not comprise a straight line between the upper and lower corners, but can also be curved or bent. FIG. 2 also illustrates products 8 (shown here as cookies) inside the container 1. The container 1 can also be configured to hold various other products, including other baked goods such as slices of pound cake.

FIG. 2 also shows how the interior of the container 1 can be designed to present the products 8 at desirable angles. For example, cookies and other substantially planar products can be presented standing at a slight angle, allowing a viewer to see the top of a cookie 8 directly behind the viewing panel 22. To hold these products 8 in the desired position 81, the bottom portion 3 can contain ridges 7 shaped to support the products 8. Products 8 with other geometries can be held in similarly desirable positions with appropriately shaped ridges 7 or some other shape, including a flat bottom. The products 8 may also rest against each other and/or the walls of the container 1 to stay in the desired position 81.

When the products 8 rest against the walls of the container 1, the walls can be shaped to advantageously receive the products so as to prevent damage during transport. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, the walls 22, 33 are shaped to substantially match the products 8. Thus in the event of a sudden movement or impact, the forces on the products 8 can be more evenly distributed at the interface between the products and the walls 22, 33. This can vastly reduce the probability of loss of product integrity upon such sudden movements and impacts.

FIG. 3 illustrates how products 8 can be seen through the viewing face 22 of a container 2. As shown, one can choose to locate the securing means elsewhere on the container 2 so as to improve visibility of the products 8 from side viewing angles such as that depicted in FIG. 2, as well as front viewing angles 10 (see FIG. 5) such as the view depicted in FIG. 3. Placement of sticker 11 on the rear end obstructs views from the rear through the back face 33, but not from the front, top, or sides. The sticker 11 or other securing means need not be located along the rear end of the container 1, but instead can be located along the seams 6 or near the hinge 4. It may also be desirable to provide securing means along both the rear end and the seams 6 to create a better seal. As further illustrated in FIG. 3, the hinge 4 is preferably located at or near the bottom of the container 1. Importantly, placement of the hinge 4 along the bottom allows for clear viewing through viewing face 22 and through top face 23.

FIG. 4 illustrates a side elevational view of a container 1, where the view of the products 8 is substantially unobstructed by the sticker 11. However, the sticker 11 in this position, while not substantially obstructing the view of the products 8, can still remain prominent to a viewer. In some embodiments the sticker 11 can comprise printed text and/or graphics. Therefore, the sticker 11 in this position can simultaneously convey information and not obstruct the view of the products 8, a significant advantage over the prior art. Similar results can be accomplished with a sticker 11 provided at other parts of the container 1, as described herein.

FIG. 5 depicts containers 1 on shelves 9, where they are visible to a passer-by. The sight-lines 10 show how the viewing panel 22 (and products 8) can be seen. Some embodiments provide a method for displaying products in containers. FIG. 5 depicts containers 1 arranged on shelves 9, such as at a department store or grocery store. To allow space for more products it is often desirable to minimize space between shelves 9. Minimizing this space limits a potential customer's field of view to angles 10. In some embodiments, a vendor can display products 8 in containers 1 that provide a substantially unobstructed view of their contents in an orientation such that potential customers view said containers 1 at the appropriate angle. This disclosure and the described embodiments are not limited to use with compact shelving, but can also be used in other situations such as stacked containers or containers placed on tables.

When a potential customer views the products 8 from above, an unobstructed view 10 can be provided through a slanted wall 22, through a top wall 23, or through other walls present in embodiments with other geometries. When a potential customer views the products 8 from substantially straight-on, an unobstructed view 10 can be provided through a slanted wall 22, or alternatively a curved wall, a wall perpendicular to the base 21, 31, or other shapes. In either case, the hinge 4 can be provided toward the bottom of the container 1 so as not to obstruct the view 10 of the products 8, and thus increasing the probability of a sale.

However, in some embodiments it may be desirable to locate the hinge at a higher position. Providing the hinge at too low a position may allow the container 1 to comprise too low an opening. Thus, products 8 could undesirably fall out of the container 1 through a low opening near a low hinge 4. Similarly, such a low opening may allow undesirable dust and debris to easily enter the container 1 while open, spoiling the freshness and cleanliness of the products 8. In conformity with some of the inventions described herein, the container 1 can comprise a hinge 4 placed at a height chosen to balance the desired attributes described, along with other considerations. For example, this height may be approximately 3 inches. This height may be approximately 75% or greater of the total height of the container.

FIG. 6 depicts a side view of a container 1 opened. As shown, in some embodiments, the container 1 opens from the rear—opposite the viewing panel 22. The top portion 2 can rotate around the hinge 4, while the bottom portion 3 remains at rest, allowing the product to be stable as the container 1 is opened. The orientation of the viewing face 22 above the hinge 4 (and opposite the snaps 5) is not required.

The illustrated embodiments have further advantages. For example, if the snaps 5 are located at the rear of the container 1, they may be less likely to interfere with the view of the product 8. Moreover, the snap 5 may secure the top portion 2 and the bottom portion 3 together so effectively that to open the container 1, a user must grip the container 1 very firmly on the portion immediately adjacent the snaps 5. Positioning the snaps 5 in an elevated position can make the container 1 easier to open by providing ample space for a person to position his or her hand on a surface adjacent to the base of the container 1 with the thumb and forefinger gripping the container near the snap 5. The other hand can grip the upper portion 2 near the snap 5 and pull the upper portion 2 up to open the container. This way, one of the user's hands remains in place on the surface, along with the bottom portion 3 containing the products 8. Thus, this configuration provides a stable, convenient option for the mechanics of opening a container 1.

If the container 1 opens from a lower seam, a user may need to lift the container 1 so as to get their hand beneath the container to open it. This raising of the container 1 can make opening it substantially more difficult and/or inconvenient. For example, raising the container 1 while opening it enhances the probability of spilling the contained products 8 because (1) the container 1 is no longer stabilized against a lower surface upon which it could otherwise rest, and (2) if the container is lifted only on the opening end then it will be tilted, causing the products 8 to fall out on the opposite end.

To further improve the mechanics of opening a container 1, the portions immediately adjacent the snaps can protrude to form gripping portions 25, 35 such as tabs, for example. The gripping portions 25, 35 can be integral with the flared portions discussed above. Alternatively, the gripping portions can comprise handles, levers, or other protrusions specifically designed to improve grip, independent of the flared portions. In some embodiments, the gripping portions 25, 35 can further comprise a highly texturized and/or roughened surface to improve a user's ability to grip.

The illustrated configuration can also have useful attributes while the container 1 is being displayed in a store. For example, it can be more difficult for a thief to open a container and pilfer a product contained therein, without first reaching up and removing the container 1 from the shelf to make the snaps more accessible. Alternatively, a thief may have to turn the container around. Either of these actions can call unwanted attention to a potential thief. Thus, potential thieves may be deterred from opening containers in accordance with the described embodiments. Opening from the back will be even more difficult when the containers 1 are provided as in FIG. 5 with little clearance between shelves 9.

FIG. 7 illustrates how products 8 can be removed from an open container. When not on shelves 9, some embodiments provide a substantial advantage for accessing products 8 presented with a slight backward lean, as shown in FIG. 7. Products 8 in such a position are most easily picked up from the back. Containers that open from the front may require one to reach around the product 8 to pick it up. However, as depicted in FIG. 7, when the container 1 opens from the back a hand 11 can easily pick up any one of the products 8 while only slightly opening the container 1. This not only provides easier access to the products 8, but also allows access without unnecessarily exposing said products 8 to external elements, thus preserving the freshness of the products 8.

FIGS. 8-11 illustrate example embodiments of a container 1. The container 1 can comprise snaps 5. In contrast to FIG. 1, where the snaps 5 are located near the grip portions 25, 35, in this embodiment the snaps 5 are located farther away from the grip portions 25, 35. The snaps 5 can be positioned near the flared portion of the seam 6 (see FIGS. 9, 10) near the rear of the container 1, as shown. Further, the snaps 5 can be positioned within indentations 50, as shown most clearly in FIG. 10. Each indentation 50 can provide a substantially flat surface surrounding each snap 5. For example, as best shown in FIGS. 9 and 11, snaps located in the top surface 23 would not effectively meet their counterpart snaps 5 in the bottom portion 3 if the top surface 23 did not dip down at the indentations 50. Thus, the indentations 50 comprise a surface surrounding the upper half of the snaps 5, and that surface is substantially parallel to the surface 51 surrounding the lower half of the snaps 5. The indentation 50 can further provide sufficient finger and/or thumb access and space to pinch the snaps together.

As shown in FIG. 10, the grip portions 25, 35 can protrude at distinct angles. For example, the embodiment of FIG. 10 depicts the top grip portion 25 protruding at a diagonal angle from the corner of the top surface 23 while the bottom grip portion 35 extends substantially rearwardly from the rear panel 33. However, in other embodiments both grip portions 25, 35 protrude substantially rearwardly, but with the bottom grip portion offset inward from the top grip portion, or vice versa. This offset allows access to the grip portions 25, 35, and an easier grip of each portion 25, 35.

As further shown in FIGS. 8-11, the container 1 can comprise additional closure structures positioned generally along the seam 6. For example, elongated receiving ridges 26 can be configured to receive elongated insertion ridges 36. As shown, the receiving ridges 26 and the insertion ridges 36 can help provide a seal for the container 1, and in some embodiments, the ridges 26, 36 can be located at the corners and in the rear of the container 1, supplementing the closure function of the snaps 5. Additional or fewer snaps may be provided, and they may be positioned differently from the manner illustrated, depending, for example, on the desired strength of adherence between the top and bottom portions 2, 3.

The side faces 21 and 31 can comprise ribs 45. The back face 33 can comprise ribs 41. The ribs 45 can be oriented perpendicular to the intersecting seam 6, and can be positioned so as to avoid interference with other elements, such as the snaps 5. The size and number of ribs can be chosen according to desired strength, cost, appearance, spacing, and other characteristics of interest. Ribs can be especially useful in providing structural strength and rigidity for containers that may bear the weight of additional containers stacked on top (see, e.g., FIG. 11). The ribs can further improve the stackability of a container 1. As best shown in FIGS. 8A and 11A, the ribs 41 on the back face 33 can have a larger size. The ribs 41 can thus extend so as to also form part of the base of the bottom portion 3, providing a broader base of support for the container 1 in addition to adding structural strength. In some embodiments, to not interfere with a stop portion 43 (further described below), the ribs 41 can have a relatively larger size on the side regions.

As shown (for example, in FIG. 9), the container 1 can additionally comprise a raised portion 42 along the top face 23 of the top portion 2. The raised portion can be generally flat. The raised portion 42 can further comprise a message or logo molded in relief into the material of the container 1. Alternatively, the raised portion 42 can act as a convenient location for a sticker. In other embodiments, the raised portion 42 can be replaced by a lowered portion also comprising a message, logo, or location for a sticker. In other embodiments the raised portion 42 can be replaced by an angled portion, which can optionally be angled toward the viewing face 22. In some embodiments a raised or lowered portion can also be angled.

FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of two containers 1 stacked on top of each other. The top portion 2 can comprise holding portions 44. These holding portions can be shaped to interact with the bottom, inverse portion of the ridges 7. Thus, a second container 1B may be placed directly on top of a first container 1A, such that the ridges 7 of container 1B may interact with the holding portions 44 to keep the top container 1B from sliding off the bottom container. Additionally, the top portion 2 may comprise a stop portion 43 to interact with a final ridge 7′ of the container 1. Because the stop portion 43 in this embodiment abuts only one side of the final ridge 7′, it does not need to fit between adjacent ridges, and can thus be wider than the holding portions 44. In some embodiments, the space between the stop portion 43 and holding portion 44 can be shaped so as to fit precisely one ridge 7, that being the final ridge 7′. The final ridge 7′ may further be specially shaped larger than the other ridges, providing a potentially stronger stop against sliding between the stacked containers 1A, 1B. As shown, a similar front ridge(s) 7″ can be located toward the front and interact similarly with the holding portions 44. Further, the ridges 7 on the sides can be as tall as the final and front ridges 7′, 7″ such that the holding portions 44 and stop portion 43 prevent lateral sliding, as best shown in FIG. 11.

FIGS. 12-17 depict another embodiment of a container 101. As depicted, the container 101 can have substantially similar features to the containers depicted in FIGS. 1-11. For example, the container 101 can include a hinge 104. However, as depicted, the hinge 104 does not extend across substantially all of the front of the container 101. The hinge 104 can be configured such that a user can tear it apart, allowing the container 101 to then be opened from the front. In some embodiments, the hinge 104 can be perforated, have weakened material, have thinner material, or have any other property known in the art to enhance tearability. To facilitate tearing at the hinge 104, the container 101 can have tabs 125, 135 on the front of the top portion 102 and bottom portion 103. As depicted, the top tabs 125 can be integral with the hinge 104 and be offset from the bottom tabs 135. This offset can allow the tabs to be easily grasped separately, such that the top and bottom portions 102, 103 can be easily pulled apart to sever the hinge 104 and open the container 101. The tabs 125, 135 can include raised/depressed portions, ribbing, or other textural features to improve manual grip and/or provide greater structural integrity. Additionally, they can include indicia indicating, for example, how to open the container 101.

As depicted the hinge 104 can be located on outwardly extending flanges of the top and bottom portions 102, 103. These flanges can form snaps 127 that provide an enhanced interengagement near the hinge 104.

In addition to the snaps 105a (similar to the snaps 5 in FIGS. 8-11), the container 101 can include snaps 105b at the rear corners of the container 101. Like the snaps 105a, the snaps 105b can be provided at an angle generally parallel to that of the seam 106. Such snaps can provide improved stability when sealing the container 101, as discussed further below. However, as depicted in the alternative embodiment of FIG. 14A, the snaps 105b, 127, and 105a (not shown) can be provided parallel to the bottom of the container or at an angle from the seam. In such embodiments the snaps can be engaged by pressing directly downwards.

The container 101 can additionally include a continuous seal along its seam 106. Notably, in the container 101 the seam 106 can be continuous, extending along the sides and rear of the container 101. FIGS. 16 and 17 depict the seam 106 at different points on the container 101, as indicated on FIG. 15. As depicted in FIG. 16, the bottom portion 103 has a free rim 170 and a downwardly-facing shoulder 172. The top portion 102 has a free rim 174 and an upwardly-facing shoulder 176 that can abut the base shoulder 172 when one attempts to remove the top and bottom portions 102, 103. Additionally, the top and bottom portions can have sealing surfaces 180, 182 that interengage to seal the contents of the container 101. As depicted, the sealing surfaces 180, 182 can be curved, enhancing both the rigidity and the continuity of the seal. Further, the sealing surfaces 180, 182 can be configured to be biased toward each other when the container 101 is closed, further enhancing the seal by deflecting the surfaces together. Finally, as depicted in FIG. 16, the snap 105b can be generally adjacent and surrounded by generally flattened regions. As the snap 105b can provide a substantially strong force holding the top and bottom portions 102, 103 together, the bonding provided by the seam 106 may be reduced in this region.

The seam 106 can provide a stronger hold in regions such as that indicated in FIG. 17, away from the snaps 105a, 105b. As depicted, the sealing surfaces 180, 182 can form downwardly and upwardly facing shoulders 172′, 174′ similar to those described in relation to FIG. 16, but at an interior side of the sealing surfaces, as opposed to an exterior side. The downwardly and upwardly facing shoulders 172′, 174′ can be in contact while the container 101 is closed, providing an immediate force to hold the top and bottom portions 102, 103 together.

Notably, along the seam 106 the free end 174 of the top portion 102 can be unavailable when the container 101 is in a closed position. Accordingly, the container 101 cannot easily be opened without using the tabs 125, 135, as further described below. The overhang of the downwardly-facing shoulder 172 can hinder prying of the free end 174 of the top portion 102.

The container 101 can include a variety of additional structural features. For example, the back face can include extended ribs 137 that provide an increased base of support for the container 101, as best depicted in FIG. 14. Thus, the container 101 can be more stable and less likely to tip over. This feature, as one example, can be especially advantageous when multiple containers 101 are stacked.

The container 101 can additionally include ribbing 145, 146 on the bottom side walls 131 and on the viewing face 122. As depicted, in this embodiment the ribbing is minimized to only extend over the lower region of the side walls 131. Similarly, the ribbing 146 can be reduced to extend only in the lower portion of the viewing face 122, and only be located in between intended rows of products (as best indicated in FIG. 13). In some embodiments the ribbing 146 can extend over no more than half the height of the viewing face 122. The viewing face 122 can additionally have a slight bend 124 intersecting the ribbing 145. Thus, the container 101 can have further enhance structural stability, along with substantially unobstructed viewing of the products 8.

The container 101 can also have a generally flat raised portion along the top face 123. The raised portion can span generally over the entire top face 123, with ledges near the rim. As described above, the top face 123 can receive stickers, indicia, or other features.

In operation, the container 101 can be formed and provided to, e.g., a vendor in the configuration depicted in FIG. 13. The container 101, in this open position, can be loaded with products 8, as described above. The container 101 can then be closed by rotating the top portion 102 about the hinge 104. To further close the container 101, one can press the snaps 105a, 105b, 127 together to partially seal the container 101. In a preferred method, the snaps 105a, 105b can be applied first. As depicted, the snaps 105a, 105b can be partially inset into the top portion 102, facilitating a pinching force. Further, the snaps 105a, 105b can both include a male portion on the top portion 102 and a female portion on the bottom portion 103, further facilitating the application of force to a broader area when applied primarily from above. Next, the seam 106 can be pressed into engagement between the top and bottom portions 102, 103 and the snaps 127 near the hinge 104 can be activated.

Once the container 101 is sealed, it can be difficult to open the container 101 without using the tabs 125, 135 because the free rim 174 of the top portion 102 can be generally unavailable. However, opening the container 101 with the tabs 125, 135 can force the hinge 104 to tear. This tearing of the hinge 104 can be irreversible, allowing a potential customer to identify whether the container 101 has been previously opened. Nevertheless, the reversible attaching features can allow the container 101 to be resealed.

As depicted, the hinge 104 can be positioned a slight distance above the bottom of the container 101. This can allow a user to easily grasp the tab 135 on the bottom portion 103, and prevent the bottom portion 103 from tipping over when the top portion 102 is removed.

An additional embodiment of a container 201 is depicted in FIGS. 18-25A. As shown, the container 201 can be substantially similar to the container 1. However, as depicted, the container 201 can include a hinge 204 toward the rear of the container 201, or at an upper portion of the seam 206.

As another difference, the viewing face 222 of the container 201 can be substantially perpendicular to the bottom portion and have three bulge portions 222A, 222B, and 222C. The snaps 227 can then be inset, as best depicted in FIG. 19.

FIGS. 25, 25A depict the stacking features of two containers 201A, 201B. As shown, the container 201 can have stacking features similar to those described above.

FIGS. 26-32 depict yet another embodiment of a container 301. As shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 18-25A, the container 301 can include a hinge 304 toward the rear of the container. Further, the container 301 can include receiving and insertion ridges 326, 336, similar to those described regarding the embodiment of FIGS. 8-11. As best depicted in FIGS. 28, 28B, the gripping portions 325, 335 and their associated flanges can be provided without snaps, as a snap-fit function can be provided by the ridges 326, 336.

Notably, the container 301 can have only one distinct row for products 8. However, in other embodiments it can have a different number of rows, as can the other depicted embodiments.

FIGS. 33-39 depict yet another embodiment of a container 401. As depicted, the container 401 can include 2 rows for products, although a different number of rows is possible. Further, as depicted the container 401 can include a hinge 404 in the front portion and receiving and insertion ridges 426, 436 at the corners and the middle of the rear portion to provide snap-fit functionality. Additionally, as depicted in FIG. 39, the container 401 can include ribbing 445 on both the top and bottom portions 402, 403.

The containers 1, 101 can comprise materials such as polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene, terephthalate, polylactide, polyvinyl chloride, other plastics, other thermoplastic polymers, other polyester polymers, other biodegradable and/or compostable rigid polymers, or any other moldable material or combination thereof. It will often be desirable to choose a transparent material to maximize the clarity of the products 8 contained. However, in some embodiments it may desirable to include translucent or opaque materials for aesthetic or functional reasons.

Reference throughout this specification to “some embodiments” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least some embodiments. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in some embodiments” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

In the above description of embodiments, various features of the inventions are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more features than are expressly recited in that claim. Rather, inventive aspects lie in a combination of fewer than all features of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment.

Although the invention(s) presented herein have been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention(s) extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention(s) and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the invention(s) herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular embodiments described above.

Claims

1. A container comprising:

a viewing end;

a rear end;

a top section; and

a bottom section configured such that the top and bottom sections come together at a border, the bottom section attached to the top section by a hinge located along one portion of the border at the viewing end, and the border configured such that it is higher at the rear end and lower at the viewing end;

wherein the hinge is tearable, and

wherein the border forms a seam that makes a free rim of the top section unavailable.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the seam extends about substantially the entire periphery of the container not covered by the hinge.

3. The container of claim 1, wherein both the top and bottom sections comprise tabs generally adjacent the hinge.

4. The container of claim 2, wherein the tabs on the top and bottom sections are offset from each other.

5. The container of claim 1, wherein the container comprises at least one snap at a corner generally opposite the hinge.

6. The container of claim 5, wherein the snap is generally parallel to the border.

7. The container of claim 5, wherein the snap is inset.

8. The container of claim 1, wherein the container cannot be opened without tearing the hinge.

9. The container of claim 1, wherein the container comprises at least one snap generally adjacent the hinge.

10. The container of claim 1, wherein the container comprises shortened ribs on the top section extending from the hinge along the viewing end.

11. The container of claim 10, wherein the ribs extend across no more than half of the viewing end.

12. A container with a top and bottom section attached by a hinge on one end wherein:

the border between the top and bottom is such that the border is higher at a rear end and lower at a viewing end;

the hinge is tearable and located at the viewing end; and

the top and bottom comprise alignment ribs that interengage to prevent sliding between two containers stacked on top of each other.

13. The container of claim 12, wherein the bottom comprises a set of substantially identical and substantially identically space alignment ribs.

14. The container of claim 13, wherein the top comprises fewer alignment ribs than the bottom.

15. The container of claim 14, wherein the bottom comprises at least two enlarged alignment ribs to interengage with the alignment ribs on the top.

16. The container of claim 15, wherein the bottom comprises shortened alignment ribs substantially in the center configured to receive the alignment ribs on the top, the other alignment ribs on the bottom designed to abut the alignment ribs on the top and prevent sliding.

17. The container of claim 12, wherein both the top and bottom sections comprise tabs generally adjacent the hinge.

18. The container of claim 12, wherein the container comprises at least one snap at corners generally opposite the hinge.

19. The container of claim 18, wherein the snap is generally parallel to the border.

20. The container of claim 18, wherein the snap is inset.

21. The container of claim 12, wherein the container cannot be opened without tearing the hinge.

22. The container of claim 12, wherein the container comprises at least one snap generally adjacent the hinge.

23. The container of claim 12, wherein the container comprises shortened ribs on the top section extending from the hinge along the viewing end.

24. The container of claim 24, wherein the ribs extend across no more than half of the viewing end.

25. A container with a top and bottom section attached by a hinge on one end wherein:

the border between the top and bottom is such that the border lies in a generally diagonal plane with a higher portion at a rear end and a lower portion at a viewing end;

the hinge is tearable and located at the viewing end; and

the top and bottom form at least one snap adjacent the seam, wherein the snap is generally parallel to the bottom of the container and at an angle with the plane of the border.

26. The container of claim 25, wherein both the top and bottom sections comprise tabs generally adjacent the hinge.

27. The container of claim 25, wherein the snap is inset.

28. The container of claim 25, wherein the container cannot be opened without tearing the hinge.

29. The container of claim 25, wherein at least one snap is generally adjacent the hinge and the seam.