PACKET DISPENSER

Abstract

Dispensing containers are taught which are strengthened by applying tape at certain locations of the containers. A dispensing container for housing and sequentially dispensing packets is taught. Also taught are the carton blanks for erecting the respective containers. A length of packets created by severably attaching sequential packets along respective tear lines is rolled or folded then positioned within the container for later dispensing. Child-resistance features that impede removal of each packet include routing the length of packets between opposing panels or between opposing panels and an edge of folded panels that exert a lateral pressure on the packets. In some embodiments the panels include apertures that catch or otherwise engage a feature of a packet, such as a blister, to further impede removal of each packet. To further impede removal of a packet, access notches that allow the user to grasp the packet are narrowly constructed. Also taught are dispensing containers with sleeves adapted to receive slidable trays therein. Reinforcing tape may be applied to the containers.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation-In-Part application U.S. application Ser. No. 12/295,377, filed Sep. 30, 2008, which is a National Phase application of PCT Application No. PCT/US07/007979 filed Mar. 30, 2007, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/787,298, tiled Mar. 30, 2006, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a package having improved child-resistance and adapted to dispense items or products, and more specifically, to a package housing a tray and/or blister containing product.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the personal care and health care industries, many types of containers have been developed for packaging a variety of items or products such as, unit dose medicants, pills, tablets, capsules, condoms, contact lenses, and the like. One typical type of packaging or packet is the conventional blister pack and another is the pouch. In a typical blister pack, a thermoforming technique is used to fabricate a plastic shell containing individual blisters or a tray of blisters for holding small consumable items. A backing sheet, generally comprising a foil material, is affixed to the back of the shell, thereby enclosing at least one item in a corresponding blister. To release an item from a blister, a user applies pressure to a blister forcing the item to rupture the backing sheet. The blister pack or a tray including items is often inserted within an outer sleeve for safely storing and protecting the items therein. The outer sleeve often includes child resistant features, such as, locking mechanisms that are configured to releasably remove the blister pack or tray from the sleeve. A drawback of the conventional blister package is that when the blister pack or tray is lockably removed from the outer sleeve, the entire contents of the package is exposed, making all of the items available at once. Similar drawbacks exist with other types of packets. Another drawback to the traditional blister pack is the difficulty in obtaining a child resistant package with an environmentally friendly substrate for the outer shell, such as paperboard.

Alternative dispensing containers have been designed for dispensing one or more packets. These conventional dispensing containers generally comprise a container including a chamber, a release slot, and a plurality of releasably attached packets that are folded or rolled and housed within the dispensing container. A packet is accessed by slideably removing the blister from the release slot. Generally, these dispensing containers are relatively expensive to manufacture because the containers generally include a plurality of complex parts that require additional time to manufacture and assemble. A further disadvantage of some dispensing containers is that they do not include child-resistant safety features. The packets can be continuously removed from the dispensing container and as a result, a child may continuously pull on the length of attached packets to gain access to all the packets at once.

It is desirable that packages holding consumable goods, such as pills or medicines packaged in packets, include child-resistant features that limit the amount of items being dispensed at one time. It is further desirable that the package be senior friendly to permit easy withdrawal of the package contents.

Accordingly, there remains, in the art a need for a dispensing container that is inexpensive, light-weight, simple and easy to manufacture and assemble, and includes child-resistant safety features that require multiple coordinated motions for dispensing in a regulated manner. There is also a need for an apparatus that is senior friendly to permit easy withdrawal of the package contents with little manipulation, even if the user's manual dexterity or strength is reduced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention overcomes the deficiencies of the known art and the problems that remain unsolved by providing a dispensing container including a thumb notch that engages one edge of a blister for preventing one or more blisters from being withdrawn from the container. The thumb notch is detachably removed, from the top of the dispensing container to expose one edge of a blister.

In another aspect, there is provided a dispensing container that meets the needs for child-resistance and senior friendliness by providing a dispensing container including a resilient panel and a blister aperture for receiving at least one blister of a blister strip. The resilient panel correspondingly aligns underneath the blister aperture to bias a blister through the blister aperture. An attempt to remove a blister from the dispensing container directs a blister to engage with an edge of the blister aperture, thereby frustrating the removal of the blister from the dispensing container. The blister strip includes a plurality of blisters including at least one item, each blister being connected to each other along a tear line for easily severing a blister from the blister strip. The blister strip is folded into an accordion and inserted within the dispensing container allowing a greater amount of blisters to be stored within the dispensing container, thereby utilizing less space. Pressure is applied to side panels of the dispensing container and a user simultaneously grasps and pulls the blister strip to sequentially dispense at least one blister at a time. The dispensing container includes security features which mandate the necessary coordination and combination of simultaneous actions by a user for removing at least one blister at a time.

In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a dispensing container comprising: a plurality of tabs and a plurality of panels operatively connected to each other to form a dispensing container, where a first panel includes a blister aperture, and where a second panel includes a thumb notch, a resilient panel and a third panel. The panels are foldably oriented so that the first panel is folded over the second panel so that the resilient panel correspondingly aligns with the blister aperture.

The dispensing container further includes a blister strip comprising a plurality of serially attached blisters where at least one blister contains at least one item, and where the blister strip is inserted between the first panel and the second panel so that one edge of a blister releasably engages with the thumb notch. The resilient, panel biases the at least one blister through the blister aperture.

Advantageously, the blister strip is folded into an accordion and housed within the dispensing container. At least one panel includes an access notch for easily grasping and pulling a blister from the dispensing container.

Regarding the embodiments described herein, as well as those covered by the claims, the dispensing container may or may not be at least partially laminated to provide tear resistance and may be constructed of a cardboard, paperboard, plastic, or tear-resistant paperboard material. In addition, the dispensing container may be configured to include a variety of shapes and sizes and may or may not be reusable. Further, alternative package embodiments may or may not include information that is printed on any surface of the dispensing container or the blister strip, or both. Alternatively, the dispensing container may include an external panel with a pocket for housing or accommodating an insert comprising information. An example of the information may include dosage or product information, compliance instructions, coupons, promotional material, date, time, or any other information.

The invention includes a method of packaging items. In one embodiment the first step is cutting a blank from a substrate material, the blank comprising a plurality of tabs, and a plurality of panels operatively connected to each other; and wherein a first panel includes a blister aperture; and further wherein a second panel includes a thumb notch, a resilient panel and a third panel. The blank is then folded to form a dispensing container. A first panel is folded over the second panel so that the resilient panel correspondingly aligns with the blister aperture. The next step is forming a blister strip including a plurality of serially attached blisters and loading at least one item into at least one blister.

The method of packaging also includes inserting the blister strip between the first panel and the second panel where at least one blister extends through the blister aperture and one edge of the blister releasably engages with the thumb notch for preventing access to the at least one blister. A further step includes folding the blister strip into an accordion and housing the accordion folded blister strip within the dispensing container.

Another embodiment, of the present invention, includes a method of dispensing at least one item from a dispensing container. The first step is folding a blister strip including a plurality of serially attached blisters into an accordion where at least one blister holds at least one item. A further step includes sealing the accordion folded blister strip into the dispensing container where one edge of a blister releasably engages with a thumb notch. The next step is removing the thumb notch from the dispensing container, along perforated scores, for exposing one edge of a blister. A first access step includes applying pressure on a plurality of panels of the dispensing container so that a first panel bows upwardly for allowing a blister to clear an edge of a blister aperture formed within the first panel. A next access step includes simultaneously grasping and pulling at least one blister from the dispensing container and tearing the at least first blister along a tear line. The access steps are repeated for sequentially dispensing at least one blister at a time.

Optionally, the dispensing container may include indicators indicia which may be printed on or formed within one or more of a plurality of panels for indicating to a user the location and/or direction a user should apply pressure on the dispensing container for withdrawing at least one blister from the dispensing container. Further, the dispensing container or blister strip may or may not include an indicator for indicating to a user when its time to consider replacing the container with additional blisters.

Additional child resistant benefits may result from the lamination of the board material; the use of tear-resistant board such as MeadWestvaco NATRALOCK®, and/or the lamination, treatment or placement of tape along the weak areas of the container, including but not limited to the corners, open ends, overlapping folds and/or stress points such as the package corners and exposed edges. It is to be understood that this technique may be applied to other paperboard packages than those previously disclosed to improve child resistance, including but not limited to outer sleeves to house trays or blister cards. It is to be understood that the tape could be placed on the interior of the package or the exterior. Tape and or lamination may be applied, to the blank prior to folding into a package. In the alternative, treated board may be used such as tear resistant board that is tear resistant over the entire package or just along the edges and corners.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a dispensing container blank, according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the partially erected blank of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a packet blank, according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of a folded packet strip being inserted within the dispensing container, according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the dispensing container of FIG. 3 including a thumb notch for releasably securing the packet strip therein, according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the dispensing container of FIG. 5 including the partially removed thumb notch, according to the present invention.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show perspective views of the dispensing container of FIG. 6, according to the present invention, showing a sequence of steps for dispensing one packet at a time.

FIG. 9 is a plan view of an exemplary embodiment of an alternative dispensing container blank, according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the partially erected blank of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the further erected blank of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the further erected blank of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the exemplary dispenser erected from the blank of FIG. 9, according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a plan view of the container blank of FIG. 1 having taped areas along the corners and edges.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the partially erected container of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a plan view of an alternate embodiment of the current invention showing a package blank having taped areas along the corners and edges.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the completed package of FIG. 16, having taped edges and corners.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the current invention showing a package blank having certain taped areas.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the partially erected package of FIG, 18.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the further erected package of FIG. 19.

FIG, 21 is a perspective view of the further erected package of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the finished package of FIG. 21, having taped edges and corners.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the current invention showing a package blank having certain taped areas.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the finished package of FIG. 23, having taped edges and corners.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a traveler used in conjunction with the package of FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the current invention showing a finished package having taped edges and corners.

FIG. 27 is a plan view a blank for a package similar to FIG. 26 having a transparent window, and also having taped edges and corners.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. It must he understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative farms, and combinations thereof. As used herein, the word “exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as an illustration, specimen, model or pattern. The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. In other instances, well-known components, systems, materials or methods have not been described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the present invention. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.

Further, it will be understood that the present invention is applicable to the packaging, storing and dispensing of various items or products. Accordingly, the terms, “item” or “product” as used herein includes all manner of small and portable items or products that are prepackaged or otherwise releasably attached that a user may wish to keep secure and dispense in a regulated manner.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like numbers represent like elements throughout, FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exemplary blank 10 for forming an embodiment of a dispensing container 12, best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Here, the illustrated blank 10 comprises an extension or glue panel 14, an inner panel 16, an inner side panel 18, a bottom panel 20, a first side panel 22, a top panel 24 and a second side panel 26. The panels 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, and 26 are hingedly connected along fold lines 28, 30 32, 34, 36, and 38, respectively.

The inner panel 16 is also hingedly connected to a first inner extension panel 40 and a second inner extension panel 42 along fold lines 44 and 46, respectively. The second inner extension panel 42 is severed from the inner side panel 18 along cut line 43. A first inner tab 48 and a second inner tab 50 are hingedly connected to the first inner extension panel 40 and the second inner extension panel 42 along fold lines 52 and 54, respectively. The inner panel 16 further includes a thumb notch 56 comprising a stop tab 59 that is defined by a full depth cut 60 and fold line 62. Thumb notch 56 is further defined by a frangible or severance line 58 for detachably removing the thumb notch 56. The inner panel 16 includes a feed aperture 64 that is defined by a full depth cut 66. Extending laterally from both sides of the feed aperture 64 are fold lines 69.

Each side panel 22, 26 includes a dust cover tab or top end tabs 70, 72 and a bottom end panel 74, 76 that are hingedly connected along fold lines 78, 80, 82 and 84, respectively. Each dust cover tab 70, 72 in the illustrated embodiment includes a recess 86 and 88, respectively.

Top panel 24 includes an access notch 90 that, here, correspondingly aligns with a blister aperture 92. As illustrated, blister aperture 92 extends completely through top panel 24. In alternative embodiments there is no blister aperture 92. The top panel 24 further includes a bottom extension panel 94. The bottom extension panel 94 is hingedly connected to the top panel 24 along fold line 100 and includes a bottom tab 102 that is hingedly connected along fold line 104.

The blank 10 may comprise paperboard, cardboard, plastic, tear-resistant paperboard or any combination thereof. The selection of this material may be made according to the packaging needs. At least a part of one or both side of the blank 10 may be laminated with a stiffing agent, such as a polymer film. In this manner, the exterior surface of the dispensing container is made more resistant to tearing. Optionally, this lamination may not extend over the entire surface of the blank 10 since only tear prone regions may require lamination. In certain embodiments, the material may be selected from biaxially oriented or cross-laminated polymeric films such as a high density polyethylene, polyolefins, polyesters or any combination thereof. In other embodiments, the lamination may be provided at stress points such as the package corners and exposed edges by applying one or more strips of the polymeric film, e.g. as a tape, over these areas.

Turning now to the erection of the blank 10, FIG. 2 represents a substantially erected dispensing container 12 as described immediately below. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the particular sequence of folds discussed below are neither limiting nor the only sequence of folds possible to erect the dispensing container 12 from the blank 10. With reference to both FIGS. 1 and 2, extension panel 14 is folded inwardly, that is, toward the reader along fold line 28. The inner panel 16, inner side panel 18, and bottom panel 20 are also folded inwardly along fold lines 30, 32, and 34, respectively. The back of extension panel 14 is then attached to the face of the first side panel 22 along the fold line 36, such that the fold lines 28, 36 are adjacent and parallel. The top panel 24 and the second side panel 26 are then folded inwardly along the remaining fold lines 36, 38 so that the faces of the top panel 24 and second side panel 26 can he attached to the backs of inner panel 16 and inner side panel 18. The panels may be attached using any suitable means for attaching including adhesive, interlocking panels, and mechanical fasteners, as understood by those skilled in the art.

Continuing the folding sequence of the illustrated dispensing container 12, the top dust covers 70, 72 are folded downwardly along fold lines 78, 80 and oriented in a general horizontal position thereby closing the void and partially forming the top end wall of dispensing container 12. The first inner extension panel 40 and the first inner tab 48 are likewise folded downwardly along fold lines 44 and 52, respectively. The first inner tab 48 is inserted within a recess defined by the edges of dust covers 70, 72 and a lateral top edge of bottom panel 20. Here, recesses 86 and 88 combine to form a semi-circular arch that correspondingly aligns with the semi-circular arch of thumb notch 56. The first inner extension panel 40, or the first inner tab 48, or both, may be adhesively attached to tabs 70, 72 or to the inner surface of bottom panel 20.

When erected, the back of the inner panel 16 rests against the face of the top panel 24 so that the feed aperture 64 is under the blister aperture 92. The inner panel 16 and the top panel 24 combine to form a channel 55 for slideably receiving a blister strip 108, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Before continuing with a description of the erecting of the dispenser 12, we turn to a description of the exemplary packet strip 108.

Referring now to FIG. 3 there is illustrated an embodiment of severably attached packets in the form of a blister strip blank 110, for forming an embodiment of a blister strip 108. The blister strip blank 110 comprises a back panel 112 that is hingedly connected to a front panel 114 along a longitudinal fold line 116. The front panel 114 includes a plurality of front sections 118 that are severably connected to each other along tear lines 120. Each front section 118 includes at least one aperture 122 for receiving an item-containing blister 124, best shown in FIG. 4.

Continuing with FIG. 3, the back panel 112 includes a plurality of back sections 126 that are severably connected to each other along tear lines 128. As shown, each back section 126 correspondingly aligns with the aperture 122 of the adjacent front section 118 along the fold line 116. Each back section 126 includes at least one dispensing aperture 130 that is defined by a plurality of perforated scores 132 formed within the substrate of back panel 112. Tear lines 120 and 128 combine to form a frangible line 129, best illustrated in FIG. 4. The width of the blister strip 108 is slightly smaller than the width of the feed aperture 64 so that the blister strips 108 can removably slide within dispensing container 12 and through the channel 55, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

Turning now to the configuration of the blister strip 108, one or more blisters 124 are disposed between a corresponding front section 118 and a corresponding back section 126. The one or more blisters 124 hold at least one or more items 121. Each blister 124 extends through a corresponding aperture 122. The back panel 112 is folded along fold line 116 and securely attached to the front panel 118. At least one blister 124 is securely sandwiched between a corresponding back section 126 and front section 118. The blister strip blank 110 may be fabricated from paperboard, cardboard, plastic, tear-resistant paperboard or any combination thereof, and the like. Each blister 124 may be transparent for allowing a viewer to easily identify the item disposed within the blister 124 or opaque for preventing a viewer from seeing the contents therein.

In some embodiments the severable attached packets are folded and inserted within the dispenser 12, while in other embodiments the packets are rolled and inserted within the dispenser 12.

Turning now to FIGS. 4 and 5, in loading the illustrated rolled or folded severably detached packets into the dispenser 12, the packets are inserted through the open end and the first packet or a leader of some kind is threaded through the back of the feed aperture 64 and placed so that the leading edge of the first packet or leader rests immediately below the thumb notch 56. The inner extension panel 42 and the bottom extension panel 94 can now be folded to form the bottom end wall and line the container 12.

Regarding those embodiments that arc loaded with a blister strip and include a blister aperture 92, the blister strip may be loaded outwardly such that a blister 124 is captured by the aperture 92, as best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Regarding those embodiments without a blister aperture, the blister strip may be loaded inwardly such that a blister 124 is captured by the feed aperture 64. Capturing a blister 124 with either the blister aperture 92 or feed aperture 64 creates a child resistant feature as explained below. In all embodiments, it is recommended that in loading the packets the leading portion or first edge 107, after being threaded through the aperture 64 and between the inner panel 16 and top panel 24, be positioned so that it is accessible after removing the thumb notch 56, as also explained immediately below.

Turning now to FIGS. 5 and 6, thumb notch 56 is detached along the severance lines 58, 60 thereby exposing an edge 107 of a blister 124, as illustrated in FIG. 6. Thumb notch 56 may comprise any shape or size and is aligned in combination with recesses 86, 88, and access notch 90 to form an access area for grasping and pulling a blister 124 from the dispensing container 12. In some embodiments where the blisters are loaded to face outwardly, an attempt to pull a blister 124 from the dispensing container 12 is frustrated by the blister 124 engaging with the edge of the blister aperture 92. Therefore, even if thumb notch 56 is torn open, removed or compromised, engagement of a blister 124 with the edge, of the blister aperture 92 provides a child-resistant feature that prevents a child from gaining immediate access to the items 121. Thus, thumb notch 56 and blister aperture 92 cooperate to provide a child-resistant feature. In other embodiments where the blisters are loaded to face inwardly an attempt to pull a blister 124 from the dispensing container 12 is frustrated by the blister 124 engaging the edge of the feed aperture 64. Thus, thumb notch 56 and feed aperture 64 cooperate to provide a child-resistant feature.

Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8 there is illustrated of a dispensing container 12, according to the present invention, showing a sequence of one method for dispensing at least one blister 124. To remove a blister 124 from the dispensing container 12, a user, using a finger and thumb of one hand, applies pressure along the first and second side panels 22, 26, near top edges 23, 25 of top panel 24. The applied pressure forces the top panel 24 to bow upwardly so that the blister 124 disengages with or clears the circumferential edge of the blister aperture 92. As pressure is being applied, the user simultaneously grasps a blister 124, using a finger and thumb of the other hand, via, access notch 90, and pulls the blister 124 outwards from dispensing container 12. As one blister 124 slides out of the dispensing container 12, a second, severably attached blister 124 moves forward. Another method for disengaging the blister 124 is to push inwardly on the face of the blister 124 until it is below the edge of the blister aperture 92. In those embodiments where the blisters 124 engage the feed aperture 64, the user inserts a finger through the thumb notch 56 to press the face of the blister 124 inwardly toward the top panel 24 while grasping the edge 107 or blister 124 and lifting or pulling the blister through the thumb notch 56.

The exposed blister 124 may then be severed or detached along a tear line 129. To remove an item 121 from the separated blister 124, pressure is applied to the blister 124 forcing the item 121 to tear the protective backing, as is well understood. The dispensing container 12 may or may not include a tear guide or blade that is connected to one of the panels 16 or 24 to help tear the blister 124 along the tear line 129.

Further, the dispensing container may or may not be transparent and may be reusable or disposable.

Next, and with reference to FIGS. 9-13, there is illustrated a second embodiment of the present invention. Because the first illustrated embodiment shares many common elements with the second illustrated embodiment, the common elements that appear in the second embodiment have been labeled with the same element numbers as the first illustrated embodiment except that the prefix “2” or “3” has been inserted. For example, the bottom panel 20 first shown in FIG. 1 is substantially the same element as bottom panel 220 first shown in FIG. 9 so both panels have in common the initial element designation of “20”. Use of this numbering convention should allow a quick and ready understanding of the second embodiment without unnecessary repetition of the teaching above.

Turning now to FIG. 9, there is shown a plan view of an exemplary blank 210 for forming an embodiment of a dispensing container 212, best shown in FIG, 13. Here the illustrated blank 210 comprises an extension or glue panel 214, an inner panel 216 including an inner wall section 217 and top wall section 219, a bottom panel 220, a first side panel 222, a top panel 224, and a second side panel 226. The panels 214, 220, 222, 224, 226 and 216 are hingedly connected along fold lines 228, 230, 232, 234 and 236, respectively. The inner wall section 217 is hingedly connected to the inner panel 216 along a first fold line 237 and along a second fold line 239 to the top wall section 219 that also includes a receiving notch 221.

The bottom panel 220 is hingedly attached to an outer end wall panel 240 along a receiving notch 241 and a fold line 244, which in turn is hingedly connected to an inner end wall panel 248 along a fold line 246. An engaging tab 249 is located at the distal edge of the inner end wall panel 248. The top panel 224 is hingedly attached to a removable top wall 225 along a severance line 262 and includes a removable thumb notch 256. Adjacent to the top wall 225 and top panel 224 are removed sections 223. An engaging tab 250 is positioned along the top wall 225. At the opposite end of the top panel 224 is foldably attached a bottom wall tab 294 along a fold line 300, and to the bottom wall tab 294 is foldable attached a bottom tab 302. The side panels 222, 226 are each hingedly connected to top dust cover tabs 270, 272 and bottom dust cover tabs 274, 276, along respective fold lines 278, 280, 282, 284. The inner panel 216 further includes an access notch 290, positioned to span both the inner wall section 217 and top wall section 219.

Turning now to an exemplary sequence for erecting the illustrated dispenser 212 from the illustrated blank 210, the inner panel 216 is folded and positioned substantially parallel to the top panel 224, as best illustrated in FIG. 10. Note that in FIG, 11 the inner wall section 217 has been folded inwardly such that the fold line 239 contacts the top panel 224 and forms an angled inner wall. Subsequently, the bottom panel 220 is folded and positioned to overlap the inner panel 216 and the glue panel 214 is attached to the side panel 226 to form a tubular carton. At this time or later, the severably attached packets 108 can be loaded into the cavity created by the opposing side walls 222, 226 and opposing inner panel 216 and top panel 224, and the leading edge 107 of the first packet can be threaded between the fold line 239 and top panel 224. Thereafter, the end can be closed by folding the bottom dust cover tabs 274, 276 and bottom wall tab 294 and bottom tab 302.

Turning now to FIG. 12, there is shown the top wall section 219 folded such that the respective receiving notches 221, 241 are immediately adjacent and positioned to collectively receive the respective engaging tabs 249, 259. This configuration of an angled inner wall section 217 and angled top wall section 219 urges the common edge, identified by the fold line 239, against the inside of the top panel 224 to hamper or otherwise restrict the withdrawal of a packet from the dispenser 212. The removable top wall 225 is then folded over the top wall section 219 and the engaging tab 259 is inserted in the receiving notch 241 so as to also matingly engage the receiving notch 221.

With reference now to FIGS. 12 and 13, the top end wall is completed and the dispenser 212 completely erected by folding the top dust tabs 270, 272 inwardly and then the outer end wall panel 240 downwardly to cover the dust tabs 270, 272. Thereafter, the inner end wall panel 248 is folded under the dust tabs 270, 272 and the engaging tab 249 inserted into the receiving notch 241 together with the removable top wall engaging tab 259.

In practice, a user accesses the contents of the dispenser 212 by severing the thumb notch 256 and pulling off the removable top wall 225 to expose the leading edge 107 of a packet 124 captured between the folded edge 239 and top panel 224. In some embodiments the top wall 225 can be configured to remain as an additional impediment to access. The amount of lateral force exerted by the folded edge 239 against the packet 124 is largely determined by the pressure exerted by the folded inner wall section 217 and top wall section 219. Removing a packet 124 requires the user to insert a finger or tool through the narrow access notch 290, grasp the small amount of exposed packet 124—typically, but not necessarily, between a finger positioned through the access notch 290 and a thumb position over the thumb notch 256, and pull the packet 124 with sufficient force to overcome the lateral pressure exerted by the folded edge 239 without allowing the packet 124 to slip. This combination of lateral pressure against the packet 124 and narrow access cooperate to provide a child-resistant feature.

As taught by the illustrated embodiments, the child-resistant features include coordinated motions to overcome the restricted dispensing of packets. Some embodiments include restricting access by capturing packets between adjacent panels and engaging a blister packet from a feed aperture 64 or blister aperture 92 while simultaneously pulling a blister 124 from the dispensing container 12 for sequentially dispensing one blister 124 at a time, while other embodiments include restricting access by capturing packets between adjacent panels that apply an external force—without fully engaging an adjacent packet—which frustrates removal of the packet from the dispenser 12. Other embodiments include combinations of these features.

Additional child resistant benefits may result from the lamination of the board material; the use of tear-resistant board and/or the lamination, treatment or placement of tape along the weak areas of the container, including but not limited to the corners, open ends, overlapping folds and/or stress points such as the package corners and exposed edges. It is to be understood that this technique may be applied to other paperboard packages than those previously disclosed to improve child resistance, including but not limited to outer sleeves to house trays or blister cards. It is to be understood that the tape could be placed on the interior of the package and/or the exterior. Tape and or lamination may be applied to the blank prior to folding into a package. In the alternative, treated board may be used such as tear resistant board that is tear resistant over the entire package or just along the edges and corners.

FIGS. 14 and 15 show one version of such a blank 10 and package container 12. Without going into the detail of the other features of the package as set forth above, tape or lamination or treatment lines 111 rest along the edges and corners of the blank. The tape or lamination or treatment lines 111 may be placed on the blank 10 before perforating or cutting out any functional elements of the package such as any locking/unlocking elements which may prevent the added strengthening elements from interfering with the function of the package. Any exposed flaps that represent a weak point of the erected package 12 may also have added tape lines or patches such as flaps 74, 94, and 76. Tape may also be applied after the package has been erected. For example, the end or ends of the package may be taped over after the package is folded. Likewise the edge of glued joints may be reinforced with tape after the package is finished.

FIGS. 16 and 17 show an alternate foldable container having improved child resistance. The container may comprise outer main panels 310, 320, and inner main panel 330 with release features 360; outer side panels 315 and inner side panels 325; retaining panels 340 with cutaways 355; and closed end panels 335 with locking features 350 and release features 345. Reinforcing tape may be added for example as with tape lines 365 (for example, at ends of the package) and tape lines 366 (for example at the corners of the package, and/or along the edges of the package, and especially along glued edges). Depending upon the location and upon manufacturing preference, reinforcing tape may be applied to the blank before folding, or to the partially assembled package, or to the finished package, or at several stages during package assembly. To avoid interfering with certain features such as release feature 360, the release feature may be die cut after applying the tape, or the tape may be sized or shaped to avoid interfering with the release feature or other feature.

FIGS. 18-22 show an alternate foldable container having improved child resistance with added tape lines reinforcement.

FIG. 18 is an illustration of a partly assembled paperboard container 401 according to an embodiment of the invention. The paperboard container is generally comprised of an outside top panel 410, an inside top panel 412, an outside bottom panel 414, and an inside bottom panel 416 laid out end to end. Also shown are a pair of top side panels 418, a pair of bottom side panels 420, and an end panel 422 that are configured as shown. Also included are a variety of cut out areas including a lock and stop cut out area 426 positioned on the inside top panel 412, a circular finger cut out area 428 that is bisected by an edge separating the inside top panel 412 and the outside top panel 410, a push button cut out feature 430 positioned on the outside top panel 410, and a pair of ramp cut out areas 424 positioned on the inside bottom panel 416.

The paperboard material is generally comprised of layers of paperboard that may be treated. The paperboard could be strengthened by coatings or by production processes. The paperboard could be improved for printing capabilities by coatings or production process steps. The inner structure may be made of molded plastic, injection molded, blow molded, thermoformed, or other similar means. In the alternative, the inner structure could be made of pressed paperboard, pressed metal, or pulped formed paper depending upon manufacturing preferences.

In FIG. 18, the inside top panel 412 is shown partially folded pivoting about the edge it shares with the outside top panel 410. This is the same edge that bisects the circular finger cut out area 428. Similarly, the inside bottom panel 416 is shown partially folded pivoting about the edge it shares with the outside bottom panel 414.

Reinforcing tape may be added for example as with tape lines 411 (for example, at ends of the package) and tape 413 (for example at the corners of the package, and/or along edges of the package as shown in FIG. 22, and especially along, glued edges). Depending upon the location and upon manufacturing preference, reinforcing tape may be applied to the blank before folding, or to the partially assembled package, or to the finished package, or at several stages during package assembly. To avoid interfering with certain features, including but not limited to release feature 430 or finger cut out area 428, these features may be die cut after applying the tape, or the tape may be sized, shaped and/or positioned to avoid interfering with the features.

FIGS. 19-21 are illustrations of the paperboard container 401 of FIG. 18 shown in partially assembled states with molded plastic components attached thereto. There is shown a lock and stop apparatus 432 comprised of molded plastic that is vacuum formed and attached to the surface of the outside top panel 410. The lock and stop apparatus 432 is comprised of a pair of thermoformed blister stops 436 and a thermoformed blister lock post 434. A more complete description of how the lock and stop apparatus functions relative to a blister package is set out below.

Also shown is a molded plastic guide apparatus 438 that is vacuum formed and adhered to the surface of the outside bottom panel 414. The plastic guide apparatus 438 is comprised of a pair of thermoformed blister ramps 440. A more complete description of how the guide apparatus functions relative to a blister package is set out below.

FIG. 20 illustrates the paperboard container 401 partially assembled wherein the inside top panel 412 has been folded completely over and on top of the outside top panel 410. Similarly, the inside bottom panel 416 has been folded completely over and on top of the outside bottom panel 414. The circular finger cut out area 428 now appears as a semicircle at one end of the paperboard package 401. The lock and stop cut out area 426 is positioned to allow the lock and stop apparatus 432 and its subcomponents (blister lock post 434 and blister stops 436) to show through the opening defined by the lock and stop cut out area 426. Similarly, the ramp cut out areas 424 are positioned to allow the guide apparatus 438 and its sub-components (blister ramps 440) to show through the opening defined by the ramp cut out areas 424. The top panel 412 and the bottom panel 416 may hold the plastic components (lock and stop apparatus etc) in place without the use of an adhesive. It is to be understood that manufacturing preferences will indicate what material is best suited for the additional components.

FIG. 21 illustrates the paperboard container 401 partially assembled wherein the top panels 410, 412 and the bottom panels 414, 416 are shown being folded toward one another. The top panels 410, 412 and the bottom panels 414, 416 are separated by end panel 422 which defines the height dimension of the assembled paperboard container 401. The left and right top side panels 418 and the left and right bottom side panels 420 will overlap one another respectively when the top panels 410, 412 and the bottom panels 414, 416 are fully folded. The side panels 418, 420 can then be adhered to one another in some fashion (e.g., gluing, adhesive tape, etc.) to form the assembled paperboard container 401.

In its assembled state, the blister ramps 440, the blister stops 436, the blister lock post 434 and the push button cut-out feature 430 become oriented such that a locking mechanism adapted to receive at least one blister package is formed.

FIG. 22 illustrates a view of an assembled paperboard container 401 with a blister package 450 contained therein. The blister package 450 is adapted to lockably fit within the paperboard container. The blister package 450 includes a leading edge (not shown) and a locking cut out area (not shown), and a plurality of individually sealed unit containers (not shown) as are typically associated with blister packaging.

In operation, a user would insert a blister package 450 into the open end of a chamber defined by the assembled paperboard container 401. The leading edge of the blister package 450 travels toward the far end of the paperboard container 401. Near the far end, the leading edge will encounter blister ramps 440 that are angled and oriented such that the leading edge will slide up and over the ramped surface. As the blister package 450 continues toward the far end of the paperboard container 401, it may next encounter the angled blister lock post 434. Angled blister lock post 434 may re-direct the leading edge back downward a bit until the locking cut out area of the blister package 450 clears the blister lock post 434 and hooks over it. The locking cut out area of the blister package 450 is aligned with the position of the blister lock post 434 when the blister package 450 is inserted into the paperboard container 401. Shortly after the locking cut out area of the blister package 450 clears the blister lock post 434 and hooks over it the leading edge will encounter the protruding blister stops 436. The blister package 450 is now fully inserted and locked within the paperboard container 1.

To release the locking mechanism and remove the blister package from the paperboard container, the user grasps the exposed portion (defined by the finger cut out area 426) of blister package 450 in one hand while holding the other end of the paperboard container 401 in their other hand. The user then depresses (usually with the thumb) the push button cut out feature 430 on the outside top panel 410 of the paperboard container 401. As the push button cut out feature 430 moves downward it contacts the surface of the blister package 450 also moving it downward. Once the blister package 450 has move sufficiently downward, the cut out area 454 of the blister package 450 will again clear and unhook from the blister lock post 434. Once this occurs the user can pull the blister package 450 out of the paperboard container 401 without it catching on the blister lock post 434.

As noted before, reinforcing tape may be added for example as with tape lines 411 (for example, at ends of the package) and tape lines 413 (for example at the corners of the package, and/or along edges of the package as shown in FIG. 22, and especially along glued edges). Reinforcing tape may be applied to the blank before folding, or to the partially assembled package, or to the finished package, or at several stages during package assembly. To avoid interfering with certain features such as release feature 430 or finger cut out area 428, these features may be die cut after applying the tape, or the tape may be sized or shaped to avoid interfering with the features.

FIGS. 23-25 show another embodiment of a packaging apparatus according to the disclosure. In this embodiment, a traveler clip 510 (FIG. 25) can be utilized with a paperboard sleeve. FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a traveler clip 510 designed to use with the packaging apparatus. The purpose of the traveler clip 510 is to (1) engage or bind one or more blister packages together, and (2) slidably and securely engage with a sleeve such that the one or more blister packages can be accessed by a user of the packaging apparatus.

The traveler clip 510 includes a pair of upper 511 and lower 515 panels connected together by a spine panel 513 to form a generally U-shaped frame structure. The traveler clip 510 is preferably formed of a hard plastic. Other suitable materials can be used such that the functionality of the traveler clip 510 is preserved. To achieve its first purpose, the traveler clip 510 includes an inclined dagger (inside, not shown) that extends upward and backward from the lower panel 515 so that the upper end of the dagger is positioned proximate the upper panel 511 with a small space retained between the upper panel 511 and the upper end of the dagger. The rear ends of blister packages (not shown) are inserted into that space one by one, or all at one time, till an aperture of each blister package clears the dagger, receives the dagger and becomes hooked thereon. The dagger is inclined to the lower panel 515 such that it defines an acute angle with respect to the lower panel 515. Such an inclined orientation of the dagger allows the blister packages to be retained and securely connected to the traveler clip 510 once the blister packages are engaged with the dagger.

To achieve the second purpose (that is, slidably and securely engage with a sleeve such that the one or more blister packages can be accessed by a user), the traveler clip 510 is constructed and U-shaped to fit within the chamber defined by the assembled sleeve 560 shown in FIG. 24. The traveler clip 510 is designed such that it allows itself and the attached blister packages to be seated within the chamber and to slide back and forth within the chamber. A locking lug 514 on the upper panel 511 of the traveler dip 510 is designed to engage portions of the sleeve 560 to prevent unintentional withdrawal of the traveler clip 510.

FIG. 23 illustrates a blank 560 of a paperboard sleeve in an early one of the folded stages for assembling an erected sleeve (FIG. 24) adapted to receive the traveler dip 510. The folding process progresses from a completely flat, unfolded form of blank (not shown) to a fully assembled three-dimensional form (FIG. 24) through intermediate in which the blank 560 is partially folded and/or glued.

The paperboard blank 560 is comprised of a top panel 562 with an end panel 568 hingedly connected along a fold line 582, a first side panel 566 hingedly connected to the top panel 562 along a fold line 585, a bottom panel 564 with end stop panels 570 hingedly connected to the bottom panel 564 along a fold line 591, and a second side panel 566 hingedly connected to the bottom panel 564 along a fold line 587. The side panels 566 are included to provide a height dimension once the paperboard blank 560 is fully assembled. To accommodate the sliding action of the traveler clip 510, a traveler guide section 572 comprised of three foldable panels 580, 581 and 583 is connected to the second side panel 566 as part of the paperboard blank 560. The first guide panel 580 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 566 along a fold line 588. The second guide panel 581 is hingedly connected to the first guide panel 580 along a fold line 589. The third guide panel 583 is hingedly connected to the second guide panel 581 along a fold line 590. Each of the first and third guide panels 580 and 583 includes a traveler guide slot 574, and a locking slot 575. Other cut out areas 576 and 592 also provided. One of the cutout areas 576 is defined at a location between the first 580 and second 581 guide panels such that it interrupts the fold line 589. The other cutout area 576 is defined at a location between the second 581 and third 583 guide panels such that it interrupts the fold line 590. The cutout area 592 is defined along the free longitudinal edge of the third guide panel 583. When the blank is set up, the guide panels 580, 581 and 583 form a layered structure in which the traveler guide slots 574 are substantially aligned along the thickness of the layered structure to define a lengthwise channel parallel to the tubular axis X-X of the sleeve formed from the blank 560 (see FIG. 24). The lengthwise channel can slidably receive a lug 514 of the traveler clip 510 and allows the traveler clip 510 to move in and out along the tubular axis X-X of the paperboard sleeve. The locking slots 575 are also aligned along the thickness of the layered structure of the sleeve to define a single locking stop (in the form of a channel) for receiving and engaging the locking lug 514 of the traveler clip 510. The lug 514 is received in the locking stop to retain the traveler clip 510 in a locked position when it is fully inserted into the paperboard sleeve.

FIG. 23 illustrates the blank 560 after the first step of assembly in which the third guide panel 583 is folded over the second guide panel 581. End stop panels 570 have also been folded over and glued or otherwise adhered down to the bottom panel 564 to form a tubular end barrier 570 for closing the rear end of the paperboard sleeve. Through several additional steps (not shown) the combined, layers 581, 583 of the second and third guide panels 581, 583 are folded onto the first guide panel 580. Eventually all of the guide slots 574 are aligned with each other while both the locking slots 575 are aligned with each other. The entire traveler guide section 572 eventually is folded over to form the interior layered structure of the paperboard sleeve. Traveler guide slots 574 form the guide channel for the traveler clip 510 while locking slots 575 form the locking stop for securing the traveler clip 510 within the paperboard sleeve. A stop portion is formed from the edges 569, 571, 579 (see FIG. 23) of the three guide panels 580, 581, 583 that have been aligned with each other. Another stop portion (hidden from view) is present on the right side of the layered structure 572. Such another stop portion is formed from the edges 573, 577 of the second and third guide panels 581, 583. These stop portions provide means for engaging shoulders 516, 516 of the traveler clip 510 to prevent the clip 510 from fully withdrawn from the sleeve.

FIG. 24 illustrates the paperboard sleeve 560 fully assembled with the top panel 562 folded up and over the layered structure or traveler guide section 572. The end panel 568 is folded over the end barrier 570 and secured thereto with an adhesive. The top panel 562 is also adhered to the traveler guide section 572 by means of an adhesive. The end result is a rectangular sleeve having one open end for receiving and seating a combination traveler clip 510 and blister packages.

When the assembled paperboard sleeve 560 has a traveler clip 510 contained therein, the traveler clip 510 may be released by depressing release button 567 defined by cut 563 in the top panel 662. The release button 567 sits directly above the locking stop provided by the locking slots 575 (see FIG. 23). The traveler clip 510 locking lug 514 extends upward from the upper panel 511 of the traveler clip 510 and will contact the front edge of the locking stop defined by the locking slots 575 if the traveler clip 510 is pulled toward the open end of the sleeve 560 without pressing on the release button 567. The cut or slit 563 allows a user to depress the release button 567, i.e., an area of the top panel 562 behind the slit 563, such that the release button 567 contacts and forces downward the locking lug 514 of the traveler clip 510. When the locking lug 514 is depressed sufficiently, it will clear the locking slots 575 and can be slid along the guide channel defined by the guide slots 574 by applying a pulling force on the blister package(s) attached to the traveler clip 510. The traveler clip 510 can continue to be withdrawn along the guide channel until the shoulders 516 and the locking lug 514 of the traveler clip 510 contact the stop portions 578 and the forward end of the guide slots 574 (channel) respectively. By this means, the traveler clip 510 is prevented from being completely removed from the paperboard sleeve. However, either of the shoulders 516 may be omitted along with its cooperating stopper, the stop portions 578. However, the shoulders 516 may be used to function as a locking lug when cooperating stopper and stop portion are provided by the sleeve. In such an embodiment, the locking lug 514 and its cooperating stopper, i.e., the guide channel 574, may be omitted instead of the shoulders and its cooperating elements. The side panels 566, in such an embodiment, provide a guide for the traveler clip 510 by slidingly contacting the opposite ends of the traveler clip 510.

Reinforcing tape may be added for example as with tape lines 512 (for example, at ends of the package) and tape lines 519 (for example at the corners of the package, and/or along the edges of the package as shown in FIG, 24, and especially along glued edges). Reinforcing tape may also be added for example with tape line or tape area 518 at the release feature 563 or other features of the package. Depending upon the location and upon manufacturing preference, reinforcing tape may be applied to the blank before folding, or to the partially assembled package, or to the finished package, or at several stages during package assembly. To avoid interfering with certain features such as release feature 563 or finger cut out area 565, these features may be die cut after applying the tape, or the tape may be sized or shaped to avoid interfering with the features.

FIG. 26 shows an alternate foldable container having improved child resistance. The container includes an inner tray 630 that fits within an outer sleeve 620. The sleeve 620 may have added tape reinforcement 611, 612.

The outer sleeve 620 may be comprised of paperboard, plastic, other suitable materials, or a combination of materials. The paperboard and/or plastic materials may be treated and or may be made of recycled materials. In particular, using tear resistance board may strengthen the durability and theft proof aspects of the package. Thermoformed board may be used to as well. Recycled plastic, such as RPET and PET, may provide environmental benefits and a plastic package and/or window may provide visibility of the product for the consumer.

The inner tray 630 may be a single compartment or multiple compartments. It also may be a blister or a tray component that may have a dagger component or other blister holding feature to hold multiple blisters in a single outer sleeve.

FIG. 26 shows the product container 610 including an outer sleeve 620 and an inner tray 630. The outer sleeve 620 may have one or more windows 622 to allow the consumer to view the one or more product(s) in one or more product cavities 660. The one or more windows 622 may be made of a variety of materials including but not limited to plastic, RPET, PET, PVC or other similar materials. It is to be understood a film covering could be used, but may not provide the strength in larger windows to keep their shape. It is to be understood that a re-sealable film covering could be used for the window. This might allow the window 622 to be the product access point should manufacturing preferences so prefer. The re-sealable film may be rolled back when the inner tray is slid to an open position within the outer shell. It is to be understood that an open window could be used with no covering should manufacturing preferences dictate. This may allow the consumer to touch and feel the product if so desired.

The outer sleeve may comprise at least one outer bottom panel, one or more side panels, at least one outer top panel, back end flaps and front end flaps or any combination of these. In addition the outer sleeve may have one or more inner panels.

The outer sleeve 620 may have one or more open ends 670 to allow the inner tray 630 to slide at least partially outside of the outer sleeve 620 and allow the consumer access to the product in the one or more product cavities 660. The opposite end 671 may be closed by end flaps (not shown) provided on outer sleeve 620. It is to be understood that the product cavity 660 in inner tray 630 may be molded or divided into compartments to fit the desired one or more product(s). One or more product cavities 660 may have depth 696 to hold one or more products. Manufacturing preferences may indicate how deep this cavity should be to sufficiently hold and protect the product. Manufacturing preferences or retail requirements may indicate the dimensions of the outer sleeve 620 and inner tray 630 may be designed to fit this outer sleeve size.

Hanging tab 632 on the top 640 of the inner tray 630 may be added to allow the product package 10 to hang for display. Hanging tab 632 may provide an area for the consumer to pull on the inner tray 630. It is noted a cut out area (not shown) in the outer sleeve 620 along open end 670 may also allow the consumer to grasp flange 682 and pull on the inner tray 630. It is noted instead of a flange the user could pull on any portion of the inner tray 630 reachable at this point. It is also to be understood that the outer sleeve 620 may be closed. One end of outer sleeve 620 may have a tear strip or other feature to indicate to the consumer that this end should be opened. Upon opening of the openable end, the inner function of the product package 610 may be substantially the same as that set forth herein.

Locking foot 638 may hold inner tray 630 in outer sleeve 620 when suspended from hanging tab 632. Locking foot 638 along front edge 636 may interact with cutout area 626, an example of an interference component, and may lock inner tray 630 within outer sleeve 620. To facilitate flexing of locking foot 638, as will be further explained herein, a cutout area 634 may be provided in the inner tray 630 adjacent the front edge 636 of locking foot 638. Locking foot 638 may be designed to be strong enough to support the weight of the one or more products in product cavity 660 when suspended from hanging tab 632. In addition, the material used to create cutout area 626 or the one or more interference component(s) may be strong enough support the weight of the one or more products as well. A treated paperboard such as a tear resistant board may provide the necessary strength to support the one or more products weight. It is to be understood that manufacturing preferences may determine what materials will work best for both the one or more inner tray locking components and the one or more outer tray interference components for the one or more products to be packaged.

Locking component 638 may have a lowering element 680 that positions the locking element low enough on the inner tray 630 to create a sufficiently small angle to provide the strength necessary to lock and retain the inner tray within the package in a larger outer sleeve 620. Lowering element 680 may place the locking element 638 even with or below the bottom of product cavity 660. Lowering element 680 acts as a false ceiling and initiates the locking angle 690 at a lower point within product container 610. Because lowering element 680 is utilized, the length of locking foot 638 may be independent of the depth of the product cavity 660 and/or inner tray 630. For example, locking foot 638 may be less than two inches long for a package two inches thick or a package three inches thick or even a package four inches or more think. This benefit reduces the material necessary for the length of both the inner tray and the outer sleeve as the package increases in depth. Locking foot 638 may be up to ½ an inch long, an inch long, 1.5 inches long, or it may be two inches long or greater should manufacturing preferences dictate. It is to be understood the shorter the locking foot 638 may be the shorter the lowering element 680 may be and the shorter the outer sleeve 620 may be.

In this example, the presence of lowering element 680 allows locking angle 690 to be formed about even with the bottom edge of the inner tray 630 and product cavity 660. The locking angle 690 may be formed approximately ½ inch or less from the bottom of product cavity 660 and/or inner tray 630. It is to be understood that the locking angle may be formed higher than ½ an inch from the bottom of the product cavity but that may affect the length of the locking foot 638 and or the degree of the locking angle 690. Product cavity 660 may be shaped to fit the product it will be containing to prevent product movement within the cavity.

It is to be understood that a lowering element 680 may be an extension of product cavity 660. Lowering element 680 may also be a separate compartment from product cavity 660. Furthermore, locking angle 690 may be formed off of the base of product cavity 660 itself such that lowering element 680 is not needed. It is to be noted that utilizing lowering element 680 may allow the consumer easier access to product cavity 660. A separate compartment or a dividing element between lowering element 680 and product cavity 660 may prevent the product from slipping into the locking element area and interfering with its function. It is to be understood that manufacturing preferences will indicate the most effective location for the foot based on the product being offered. By lowering the locking angle 690, a smaller angle may be created for locking foot 638 regardless of the size of outer sleeve 620.

Inner tray 630 may comprise one or more product cavities 660 and one or more lowering elements 680. It is understood that the locking foot may extend off of the product cavity itself and lowering element 680 may not be included in inner tray 630. The outer sleeve 620 and inner tray 630 should be approximately the same dimensions height, length and width to securely contain the product and allow the locking and retention features to effectively function. In addition, the outer sleeve may be up to 5% longer than the product cavity, up to 10% longer than the product cavity, or up to 20% longer than the product cavity to accommodate for lowering element 680. Lowering element 680 may be greater than a ½ inch long; it may be up to an inch long; it may be up to 2 inches long. Manufacturing preferences will dictate the length needed for lowering element 680 and thus, outer sleeve 620.

It is to be understood that instead of cutout area 626 another interference component may be used such as an extra panel that may be shortened such that it catches on locking component 638, embossing or debossing on the inner walls of outer sleeve 620, and/or the presence of a ledge or other similar features designed to interfere with the locking component in a manner to prevent the inner tray 630 from sliding out of outer sleeve 620 unless the locking component 638 is depressed in such a manner to avoid the interference feature 626. The one or more interference components 626 may be a separate piece added to the outer sleeve 620 or may be a part of a single piece outer sleeve 620 structure.

Reinforcing tape may be added for example as with tape lines 611 (for example, at ends of the outer sleeve 620) and tape lines 612 (for example at the corners or the outer sleeve, and/or along edges of the outer sleeve, and especially along glued edges). Depending upon the location and upon manufacturing preference, reinforcing tape may be applied to the blank before folding, or to the partially assembled package, or to the finished package, or at several stages during package assembly. To avoid interfering with certain features such as features 624, 626, 628, 672, 674, these features may be die cut after applying the tape, or the tape may be sized or shaped to avoid interfering with the features. Reinforcing tape (not shown) may also be applied around the perimeter of window 622.

In FIG. 26, the product container 610 has a retaining flap 684 on the front side of inner tray 630. The retaining flap 684 may be foldably or hingedly attached to inner tray 630 along crease or fold 688. Retaining flap 684 interacts with retention feature 674 on the inside of the front panel of the outer sleeve 620. Retention feature 674 may be a cut out like retention feature 672 on the inside of the back panel of the outer sleeve 620 or it may be a folded flap that may be adhered to the inside of outer sleeve 620. Retention feature 674 and retention feature 672 may be aligned. It is understood that the addition of a second retention feature may provide additional stability for the inner tray 630 when it is in its fully extended position. In addition retention feature 674 may provide additional support to prevent the inner tray 630 from being fully removed from outer sleeve 620. In particular, when a retention feature on the lower side of mouth 670 is aligned with a retention feature on the upper side of mouth 670, stability of the inner tray in its fully extended position may be improved. In addition, the pressure of retaining flap 684 on the top panel on the outer sleeve 620 may push the inner tray 630 lower in the outer sleeve 620 and may assist in leading edge 636 of locking element 638 catching on interference element 626 when the inner tray 630 is in its fully closed position.

It is to be further understood that the one or more interference components on the outer sleeve 620 may be about centrally located or may be located more to the sides or even along the side panels of the outer sleeve 620. In the situation where the one or more interference components and the one or more locking foot 638 are located towards the one or more sides of the inner tray 630 of the product package 610, one or more release points (not shown, located on the outside of sleeve 620, adjacent element 628) may be located on one or more sides of the outer sleeve 620 or product package 610 and a consumer pressing on these one or more release points may lift the outer sleeve and lift the one or more interference components away from the one or more locking foot 638.

It is to be understood that locking foot 638 may be a locking ledge or other such locking element. It may be flexible should package 610 be unlocked by pressure approximately adjacent to the positioning of locking component 638. Locking component 638 may be stronger if the outer sleeve 620 is to be flexed around locking component 638 by pressure on side pressure points on the outer sleeve 620. Is such a scenario, outer sleeve 620 may need to be made of flexible materials. Manufacturing preferences will indicate the appropriate type of locking and unlocking elements to use and the appropriate materials to use for each element.

FIG. 27 shows an example of a blank for an outer sleeve 620 similar in some aspects to the outer sleeve of FIG. 26, and provided with a window. The outer sleeve 620 may comprise at least one outer bottom panel 654, one or more side panels 656, at least one outer top panel 658, back end flaps 646, 648, 662 and front end flaps 644, 674, and 664 or any combination of these. In addition, the outer sleeve may have one or more inner panels 676. The one or more inner panels 676 may have a cut out 626 and/or a node 628 that may interact with the locking foot of the inner tray. In the alternative, the inner panel 676 may be a partial panel cut such that the shortened end is towards the end flap 646, 662, and 648 and is positioned such that it catches the locking foot of the inner tray. Alternate interference forms may also be used and positioned such that they catch the locking foot of the inner tray. Some alternate interference components could be ledges or ramps formed of paperboard or plastic, floating panels, embossing or debossing or any other such features.

The outer bottom panel 654 may have one or more release points 624. The release point 624 may be a push button cut out. The release point 624 may be an opening that allows the user to depress the locking foot. The release point 624 may have a dual function of providing an interference component in the form of an opening as well as allowing the user access to the edge of the locking foot such that when the user pushes the inner tray towards the closed end of the package the front edge of the locking foot clears the edge of the opening and the user may depress the locking foot such that the inner tray is now able to be slide out the front end of the package.

One or more retention means 672 may be positioned towards the open end of the outer sleeve 620. The retention means may be located on the inner panel 676 or it may be located (not shown) on the outer bottom panel 654 in the form of an opening or end flap that acts as a catch flap. The one or more retention means 672 may catch the locking foot such that the inner tray may not be fully removed from the package. An additional retention means may be provided such as using end flap 674 or a part thereof that may catch a retaining flap on the inner tray. The addition of both of these retention features 672, 674 may provide additional stability for the inner tray when it is in the open position extended fully outside of the outer sleeve. These retention features may take on a variety of forms such as loose end flaps folded inside the outer sleeve 620, adhered end flaps folded inside the outer sleeve 620, ramps, ledges, openings, extra panels, embossing or debossing and/or any combination of these or other similar features. It is generally beneficial to have these features located toward the open end of the outer sleeve.

A window 622 may be positioned on outer sleeve 620 to allow the consumer to view the product cavity of the inner tray. The window 622 may be covered by a transparent material 621.

The outer sleeve 620 may have at least one closed end formed from panels 646, 662, and 648 or other such similar panels. Outer sleeve 620 may have at least one open end formed from panels 644, 674 and 664 or any combination of these or other similar panels.

Reinforcing tape may be added for example as with tape lines 611 (for example, at ends of the outer sleeve 620) and tape lines 613 (for example around window 622) and also for example at the corners or the outer sleeve, and/or along edges of the outer sleeve, and especially along glued edges. Reinforcing, tape may be added as with tape lines or areas 618 to reinforce features such as retention or release features, for example at release point 624. Depending upon the location and upon manufacturing preference, reinforcing tape may be applied to the blank before folding, or to the partially assembled package, or to the finished package, or at several stages during package assembly. To avoid interfering with certain features such as features 624, 626, 628, 672, 674, these features may be die cut after applying the tape, or the tape may be sized or shaped to avoid interfering with the features. The reinforcing tape may take the form of a strip or ribbon of suitable length and width, or a rectangular or oblong area or patch, or an irregular shape to fit according to manufacturing preference. Reinforcing tape 613 may also be applied around the perimeter of window 622.

It is to be understood that the technique of strengthening the package by addition of tape will work for any foldable container particularly paperboard foldable containers and even more particularly for paperboard containers having child resistant elements such as locking, unlocking and retaining features. The paperboard containers may contain slide cards, blisters, or product tray(s). Some examples of packages that may be improved include but are not limited to those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,845,496; 7,798,328; 7,658,287; and U.S. Pat. application Ser. Nos. 09/042527; 11/470875; 12/517745; 61/442631; 61/453585; 61/261814; 61/245759.

It is to be understood that manufacturing preferences may dictate the type of reinforcing tape that will best work. A stretchable and/or flexible plastic tape might be beneficial as it will be more difficult to break or tear this type of tape. The reinforcing tape may be tear-resistant or tear-proof. The tape may be applied before the blank is cut or after the blank is cut. The reinforcing tape itself may be cut by a cutting operation. In addition, tape may be placed along the ends of the package, after it is erected to provide additional sealing and security. For some packages, reinforcing tape may be at least partly positioned on an external surface of the finished package. For some packages, reinforcing tape may be at least partly positioned on an internal surface of the finished package. In packages where panels overlap in two or more layers or plies, reinforcing tape may be at least partly positioned between the overlapping panels, layers or plies.

The law does not require and it is economically prohibitive to illustrate and teach every possible embodiment of the present claims. Hence, the above-described embodiments are merely exemplary illustrations of implementations set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the invention. Variations, modifications, and combinations may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the claims. All such variations, modifications, and combinations are included herein by the scope of this disclosure and the following claims.

Claims

1. A paperboard container comprising:

an outer sleeve having a plurality of panels operatively connected to each other to form a container having an open end and a closed end and a product cavity,

wherein at least one panel has a locking element and

wherein the container houses a product tray having one or more product units;

further wherein the outer sleeve has one or more unlocking elements that interact with the locking element to release the product tray and allow it to slide outside of the product cavity

and further wherein reinforcing tape is located along at least one of an edge of the sleeve, a corner of the sleeve, an end of the sleeve, an opening in the sleeve, the locking element, and the unlocking element.

2. The paperboard container of claim 1, wherein the reinforcing tape is tear-resistant or tear-proof.

3. The paperboard container of claim 1, wherein the reinforcing tape is flexible.

4. The paperboard container of claim 1, wherein the reinforcing tape is stretchable.

5. The paperboard container of claim 1, wherein the reinforcing tape is in the form of a ribbon.

6. The paperboard container of claim 1, wherein the reinforcing tape is in the form of a patch.

7. The paperboard container of claim 1, wherein the reinforcing tape comprises a plastic or polymer material.

8. The paperboard container of claim 1, wherein at least one die cut is made through the reinforcing tape.

9. The paperboard container of claim 1, wherein at least part of the reinforcing tape is located on the exterior of the container.

10. The paperboard container of claim 1, wherein at least part of the reinforcing tape is located on the interior of the container.

11. The paperboard container of claim 1, wherein the container comprises a first and second overlapping panel and at least part of the reinforcing tape is located between the first and second overlapping panels.

12. The paperboard container of claim 1, wherein at least part of at least one panel comprises a tear-resistant material.

13. A container comprising:

a plurality of panels and tabs operatively connected to each other to form a packet dispenser, wherein a first panel and at least a second panel are positioned to form a channel that restrictively receives a length of attached packets;

wherein at least one packet from said length of attached packets contains at least one item, wherein said packets are housed within said dispenser; and

a reinforcing tape placed along at least one of an edge of the container, a corner of the container, an end of the container, and an opening in the container.

14. The container of claim 13, wherein the reinforcing tape is tear-resistant or tear-proof.

15. The container of claim 13, wherein the reinforcing tape is flexible.

16. The container of claim 13, wherein the reinforcing tape is stretchable.

17. The container of claim 13, wherein the reinforcing tape is in the form of a ribbon.

18. The container of claim 13, wherein the reinforcing tape is in the form of a patch.

19. The container of claim 13, wherein the reinforcing tape comprises a plastic or polymer material.

20. The container of claim 13, wherein at least one die cut is made through the reinforcing tape.

21. The container of claim 13, wherein at least part of the reinforcing tape is located on the exterior of the container.

22. The container of claim 13, wherein at least part of the reinforcing tape is located on the interior of the container.

23. The container of claim 13, wherein the container comprises a first and second overlapping panel and at least part of the reinforcing tape is located between the first and second overlapping panels.

24. The container of claim 13, wherein at least one of the panels and tabs comprises a tear-resistant material.

25. A container comprising:

a plurality of panels and tabs operatively connected to each other to form a packet dispenser, wherein a first panel and at least a second panel are positioned to form a channel that restrictively receives a length of attached packets;

wherein at least one packet from the length of attached packets contains at least one item, wherein said packets are housed within said dispenser; and

wherein one or more of the plurality of panels is made of a treated paper board.

26. The container of claim 25 wherein the treated paper board is tear-resistant.