BLANK WITH WIDE PANELS AND NARROW PANELS, AND PACKAGE WITH BLANK
The blank includes two or more wide panels, and at least two narrow panels attached to the two or more wide panels, each of the two or more wide panels being separated from each other by at least one of the at least two narrow panels, a first narrow panel, of the at least two narrow panels, defining a first tear strip, the first tear strip having a first longitudinal length that spans across a first width of the first narrow panel, the first longitudinal length being perpendicular to a second longitudinal length of the blank.
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Example embodiments generally relate to a package including one or more trays for a consumer product.
Description of Related ArtPackages can store and dispense consumer products that may be impacted by exposure to ambient air.
SUMMARYAt least one example embodiment is directed toward a blank.
In at least one example embodiment, the blank includes two or more wide panels; and at least two narrow panels attached to the two or more wide panels, each of the two or more wide panels being separated from each other by at least one of the at least two narrow panels, a first narrow panel, of the at least two narrow panels, defining a first tear strip, the first tear strip having a first longitudinal length that spans across a first width of the first narrow panel, the first longitudinal length being perpendicular to a second longitudinal length of the blank.
In at least one example embodiment, the blank is configured to be at least partially wrapped around an outer container, a first shape of the two or more wide panels being conformed to a second shape of two major surfaces on the outer container.
In at least one example embodiment, the two or more wide panels are configured to directly contact and at least partially cover the two major surfaces, the two major surfaces opposing each other on the outer container.
In at least one example embodiment, the at least two narrow panels are configured to at least partially cover an opening of the outer container to provide tamper resistance.
In at least one example embodiment, the first tear strip is configured to be aligned with and at least partially cover an opening of the outer container to provide tamper resistance.
In at least one example embodiment, an outer surface of the two or more wide panels includes indicia, the indicia including consumer information.
In at least one example embodiment, a first outer surface of the two or more wide panels and a second outer surface of the at least two narrow panels includes indicia, the indicia including consumer information.
In at least one example embodiment, each of the two or more wide panels have first major surfaces that are substantially rectangular in shape, the first major surfaces having first rounded corners.
In at least one example embodiment, each of the two or more wide panels have a second width that is about twice as wide as the first width.
In at least one example embodiment, the at least two narrow panels include a second narrow panel, the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel each having a same width that is the first width.
In at least one example embodiment, the blank is a single web of material.
In at least one example embodiment, the blank is mounted on a backing via at least one adhesive, the blank being configured to be peeled off of the backing prior to being connected to an outer container.
In at least one example embodiment, terminal panels on distal ends of the blank include the first narrow panel and a first wide panel of the two or more wide panels.
In at least one example embodiment, terminal panels on distal ends of the blank include a second narrow panel of the at least two narrow panels and a first wide panel of the two or more wide panels.
In at least one example embodiment, a tab extends from a distal end of the second narrow panel, the tab being configured to be adhesively connected to the first wide panel when the blank is wrapped around an outer container.
In at least one example embodiment, the first narrow panel is between the first wide panel and a second wide panel, the second wide panel being one of the two or more wide panels, the first wide panel and the second wide panel being equally sized panels.
In at least one example embodiment, side edges of the second narrow panel define a pair of alignment notches, the pair of alignment notches being aligned across a third width of the of the second narrow panel, the third width being perpendicular to the second longitudinal length.
In at least one example embodiment, terminal panels on distal ends of the blank include a first wide panel and a second wide panel of the two or more wide panels.
In at least one example embodiment, the first narrow panel is between the first wide panel and a third wide panel, and a second narrow panel of the at least two narrow panels is between the second wide panel and the third wide panel, the third wide panel being one of the two or more wide panels.
In at least one example embodiment, the two or more wide panels each have a second width, the first wide panel and the second wide panel each having a third longitudinal length, the third longitudinal length being shorter than a fourth longitudinal length of the third wide panel.
In at least one example embodiment, the first wide panel and the second wide panel define straight end edges on distal-most ends of the blank, the straight end edges being perpendicular to the second longitudinal length, the third wide panel having a first major surface that is substantially rectangular in shape.
In at least one example embodiment, the first major surface has first rounded corners with a first radius of curvature, the first wide panel and the second wide panel defining second rounded corners with a second radius of curvature on ends of the straight end edges, the second radius of curvature being is smaller than the first radius of curvature.
In at least one example embodiment, the first wide panel and the second wide panel each define a pair of opposing rounded corners that face the third wide panel, the pair of opposing rounded corners having a third radius of curvature that is equal to the first radius of curvature.
In at least one example embodiment, the second narrow panel defines a second tear strip.
In at least one example embodiment, the first tear strip is configured to be torn open in a first direction and the second tear strip is configured to be torn open in a second direction, the first direction being in a parallel and opposite direction relative to the second direction.
In at least one example embodiment, the first tear strip is defined at least in part by a pair of parallel rows of slits, a tear direction of the first tear strip being one or a single direction or bi-directional.
At least one example embodiment is directed toward a package.
In at least one example embodiment, the package includes an outer container; and the blank of claim 1 at least partially wrapped around the outer container.
In at least one example embodiment, a first shape of the two or more wide panels is conformed to at least a portion of a second shape of two major surfaces of the outer container.
In at least one example embodiment, each the two or more wide panels are configured to directly contact at least a portion of two opposing major surfaces on the outer container.
In at least one example embodiment, each of the two or more wide panels are adhesively connected to at least a portion of two opposing major surfaces on the outer container.
In at least one example embodiment, the two opposing major surfaces are equally sized, the two opposing major surfaces being in planes that are parallel to each other.
In at least one example embodiment, the outer container includes a first section and a second section that are joined together at a seam, wherein the first tear strip is aligned with and at least partially covers a portion of the seam to provide tamper resistance for the package.
In at least one example embodiment, the outer container includes a first section and a second section that are joined together at a seam that circumscribes the outer container, wherein the at least two narrow panels includes a second narrow panel, the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel each spanning across the seam.
In at least one example embodiment, the second narrow panel defines a second tear strip, the first tear strip and the second tear strip being aligned with and at least partially covering the seam to provide tamper resistance.
In at least one example embodiment, side edges of the second narrow panel define a pair of alignment notches, the first tear strip and the pair of alignment notches being aligned with and at least partially covering the seam to provide tamper resistance.
In at least one example embodiment, the blank circumscribes the outer container.
In at least one example embodiment, at least a portion of the two or more wide panels is adhesively connected to the outer container, the blank not fully encompassing the outer container.
In at least one example embodiment, the blank includes two terminal panels on distal ends of the blank, the two terminal panels each being one of the two or more wide panels, a gap existing between end edges of the two terminal panels that expose a section of the outer container that is viewable once the blank is connected to the outer container.
In at least one example embodiment, the outer container includes rounded side edges along a first end wall and a second end wall of the first section and the second section, the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel including fold lines that subdivide a portion of the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel into chamfered sections, the chamfered sections lying across and directly contacting at least portions of the rounded side edges.
The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein may become more apparent upon review of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are merely provided for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. For purposes of clarity, various dimensions of the drawings may have been exaggerated.
Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing example embodiments. Example embodiments may, however, be embodied in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to only the example embodiments set forth herein.
Accordingly, while example embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but to the contrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives thereof. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.
It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “covering” another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations or sub-combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, regions, layers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.
Spatially relative terms (e.g., “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like) may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, and/or elements, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or groups thereof.
When the words “about” and “substantially” are used in this specification in connection with a numerical value, it is intended that the associated numerical value include a tolerance of ±10% around the stated numerical value, unless otherwise explicitly defined.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
Example embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of example embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, example embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.
Package
In at least one example embodiment, the outer container 100 includes a first section 110 and a second section 120. In at least one example embodiment, the first section 110 is a lower section of the outer container 100 and the second section 120 is an upper section of the outer container 100. In at least one example embodiment, the first section 110 and the second section 120 combine to form a “clam shell” type configuration for the outer container 100. In at least one example embodiment, the first section 110 and the second section 120 are identical to each other and are therefore interchangeable with each other.
In at least one example embodiment, a ridge 130 of a first tray 500 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the outer surfaces 205 of the first section 110 and the second section 120 each have a flat major surface 140 (
In at least one example embodiment, the major elements 550 include the outer container 100 (the first section 110 and the second section 120), the first tray 500, a second tray 510 and a band 520. In at least one example embodiment, when the outer container 100 is in the “closed” configuration, the outer container 100 can contain both the first tray 500 and the second tray 510. In at least one example embodiment, the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are removable from the outer container 100, and the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are able to be inserted back into the outer container 100 after being removed from the outer container 100. In at least one example embodiment, the band 520 circumscribes at least a portion of the outer container 100 to form the package 4600 (see
In at least one example embodiment, the outer container 100, the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are made from a same material. In at least one example embodiment, the outer container 100, the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are made from a recyclable material. In at least one example embodiment, the outer container 100, the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are made from a cardboard material or a cardboard composite, PaperFoam®, industrial starch including potatoes or tapioca mixed with cellulose fibers, wood pulp, biopolymers, other suitable packaging materials, or combinations thereof. In at least one example embodiment, the outer container 100, the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are made from different materials.
In at least one example embodiment, the first section 110 includes an end wall (floor) 600, first sidewalls 610 and second sidewalls 620. In at least one example embodiment, the first sidewalls 610 have a longer longitudinal length relative to the second sidewalls 620 (as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, the first section 110 includes rounded corners 630 where the end wall 600 meets the first sidewalls 610 and the second sidewalls 620. In at least one example embodiment, the first sidewalls 610 and the second sidewalls 620 have a peripheral edge 640 that is a distal-most end of the first sidewalls 610 and the second sidewalls 620. In at least one example embodiment, the peripheral edge 640 of the first section 110 and the second section 120 grip the ridge 130 of the first tray 500 when the outer container 100 is in the closed position and contain the first tray 500 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, a first thickness 800 of the end wall 600 is the same as a second thickness 810 of the second sidewalls 620 and/or the first sidewalls 610, such that the first section 110 has a uniform thickness. In at least one example embodiment, the second sidewalls 620 and the first sidewalls 610 are the same second thickness 810. In at least one example embodiment, the first thickness 800 is larger than the second thickness 810. In at least one example embodiment, the first thickness 800 and the second thickness 810 are both in the range of about 1.5 mm to 3.5 mm, or about 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, or about 2 mm.
In at least one example embodiment, the second sidewalls 620 (and likewise the first sidewalls 610) are slightly flared outward, such that a first distance 820 across an interior longitudinal length of the first section 110 is smaller than a second distance 830 across the interior longitudinal length of the first section 110.
In at least one example embodiment, the first tray 500 includes an upper wall 900. In at least one example embodiment, the first tray 500 includes sidewalls 917 that circumscribe a periphery of an upper portion of the first tray 500. In at least one example embodiment, the ridge 130 divides the sidewalls 917 into upper sidewalls 920 and lower sidewalls 930. In at least one example embodiment, an upper ledge 915 and a lower ledge 925 are upper and lower surfaces that are defined by the ridge 130. In at least one example embodiment, the upper wall 900 defines rounded edges 945 where the sidewalls 917 meet an upper (top) surface 992 of the first tray 500 along a periphery of the first tray 500. In at least one example embodiment, the sidewalls 917 define rounded corners 905 on four corners of the first tray 500. In at least one example embodiment, the lower portion 940 of the rounded corners 905. In at least one example embodiment, the lower sidewalls 930 define lugs 935. In at least one example embodiment, the lugs 935 are substantially equally spaced along the lower sidewall 930 of the first tray 500, where the lugs are oriented vertically along the lower sidewall 930 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the upper wall 900 defines a depression 970. In at least one example embodiment, the depression 970 is a partial “impression” of a consumer product 1600 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the depression 970 includes sidewalls 910 that are substantially vertical. In at least one example embodiment, the sidewalls 910 included rounded corners 965. In at least one example embodiment, the depression 970 includes three minor depressions 990 which include: a first half-bowl 975, a second half-bowl 980 and a shelf 982. In at least one example embodiment, the first half-bowl 975 and the second half-bowl 980 have a half-oval footprint (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the first half-bowl 975 includes a pair of lugs 996 on upper side edges of the first half-bowl 975 (on an end of the first half-bowl 975 that is near the shelf 982). In at least one example embodiment, lugs 996 extend slightly from the sloped sidewalls 985 of the first half-bowl 975 and the second half-bowl 980 (see
In at least one example embodiment, the lower sidewalls 930 extend vertically downward to form a skirt 1240 at a lower portion of the first tray 500. In at least one example embodiment, the skirt 1240 has a varying depth, such that a distal end 1250 of the skirt 1240 extends to different elevations. In at least one example embodiment, the skirt 1240 has a first depth 1200 along end sections 1400 of the first tray 500 (see
In at least one example embodiment, and as shown in
As shown in
In at least one example embodiment, and as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, a second gap 1620 exists between a first end 1600a of the consumer product 1600 and the sloped sidewalls 985 of the shelf 982. In at least one example embodiment, a third gap 1630 and a fourth gap 1640 exist between the sloped sidewalls 985 of the second half-bowl 980 and first half-bowl 975, respectively, due in part to the placement of the lugs 996 (see
In at least one example embodiment, the sidewalls 917 are flared outward, such that a first internal width 1820 of the first tray 500 is smaller than a second interior width 1830 of the first tray 500. In at least one example embodiment, the sidewalls 917 are flared outward at a gradual angle 1800 that is about 1-2 degrees, relative to a vertical plane 1810 (i.e., relative to a direction that is plum with gravity when the first tray 500 is on a flat surface that is perpendicular with gravity).
In at least one example embodiment, the consumer product 1600 is an electronic device, and more particularly, a heat-not burn device (or alternatively an e-vaping device). In at least one example embodiment, the consumer product 1600 is an accessory or an element of an electronic device, and more particularly, a heat-not burn device (or alternatively an e-vaping device).
In at least one example embodiment, some electronic devices are configured to heat a plant material to a temperature that is sufficient to release constituents of the plant material while keeping the temperature below its ignition temperature so as to avoid a self-sustaining burning or a self-sustaining combustion of the plant material (i.e., in contrast to where a plant material is lit, such as lit-end cigarettes). Such devices may be characterized as generating an aerosol of constituents released by heating, and may be referred to as heat-not-burn aerosol-generating devices, or heat-not-burn devices.
It is understood that heating of a plant material below its ignition temperature may, in some circumstances, produce incidental and insubstantial levels of oxidized or other thermal decomposition byproducts. However, in some embodiments, the heating in aerosol-generating devices is below the pyrolysis temperature of the plant material so as to produce an aerosol having no or insubstantial levels of thermal decomposition byproducts of the plant material. Thus, in an example embodiment, pyrolysis of the plant material does not occur during the heating and resulting production of aerosol. In other instances, there may be incidental pyrolysis, with production of oxidized or other thermal decomposition byproducts at levels that are insignificant relative to the primary constituents released by heating of the plant material.
In at least one example embodiment, the raised ridge 950 holds a side/rear surface 1600b of the consumer product 1600 away from the floor 960 of the first tray 500, such that a gap 1900 exists between the side/rear surface 1600b and the floor 960 (see
In at least one example embodiment, portion of the depression 970 hug back surfaces of the consumer product 1600 along a longitudinal length of the consumer product 1600 (see
In at least one example embodiment, the first end 1600a of the consumer product 1600 is a mouth-piece end of a heat-not-burn device (or, alternatively an e-vaping device) and the second end 1600c is a base end (wide end) of the heat-not-burn device (or, alternatively e-vaping device).
In at least one example embodiment, the lower ledge 925 of the ridge 130 of the first tray 500 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the opening 955 of the first tray 500 allows the second tray 510 to be partially viewable when the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are in the outer container 100 and the second section 120 has been removed from the outer container 100 (as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, and as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, an upper wall 2300 of the second tray 510 defines major upper surfaces 2345, first (upper) inset surfaces 2350, second (lower) inset surfaces 2370, a first depression 2305 and a second depression 2310. In at least one example embodiment, the major upper surfaces 2345 constitute top-most (highest elevation) surfaces of the second tray 510. In at least one example embodiment, the first inset surfaces 2350 are at an elevation (vertical height) of the second tray 510 that is between the major upper surfaces 2345 and the second inset surfaces 2370.
In at least one example embodiment, opposing sidewalls 2375 bracket sides of the second inset surfaces 2370. In at least one example embodiment, the first depression 2305 is defined by sidewalls 2320 and a floor 2355. In at least one example embodiment, the second depression 2310 is defined by sidewalls 2325 and a floor 2360. In at least one example embodiment, the first depression 2305 and/or the second depression 2310 have a footprint that is substantially rectangular in shape (see an overhead view in
In at least one example embodiment, the first depression 2305 and/or the second depression 2310 have a footprint that is substantially square in shape (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the upper wall 2300 of the second tray 510 defines a cut-out 2315 with a lower surface (valley) 2335 that is between opposing sloped walls 2330. In at least one example embodiment, when the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are in the first section 110 (see
In at least one example embodiment, sidewalls 2340 extend vertically and downwardly from the upper wall 2300 to form a skirt 2385 along a lower periphery of the second tray 510. In at least one example embodiment, the skirt 2385 has a varying depth, such that a distal end 2380 of the skirt 2385 extends to different elevations. In at least one example embodiment, the skirt 2385 has a first depth 2720 along side sections 2725 of the second tray 510 and a second depth 2710 along rounded corners 2398 of the second tray 510 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the first inset surfaces 2350 of the second tray 510 can support and retain consumer products or accessories for consumer products. In at least one example embodiment, the first inset surfaces 2350 support and retain the consumer information material 3200 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, a length 2900 of the second tray 510 is in the range of about 135 mm to 155 mm, or about 140 mm to 150 mm, or about 146 mm. In at least one example embodiment, a height 2910 of the second tray 510 is in the range of about 10 mm to 20 mm, or about 14 mm to 18 mm, about 16 mm. In at least one example embodiment, a width 3000 of the second tray 510 is in the range of about 90 mm to 110 mm, or about 95 mm to 105 mm, or about 101 mm. In at least one example embodiment, an internal depth 3100 of the 2305 and 2310, from the first inset surfaces 2350 to the respective floors 2355/2360 is in the range of about 10 mm to 20 mm, or about 12 mm to 18 mm, or about 15 mm.
In at least one example embodiment, second tray 510 retains the added consumer products 3400. In at least one example embodiment, the added consumer products 3400 include the consumer information material 3200, a universal serial bus (USB) charger 3410 and an insert 4800. In at least one example embodiment, first depression 2305 is sized to contain the USB charger 3410 and the second depression 2310 is sized to contain the insert 4800. In at least one example embodiment, the first depression 2305 and the second depression 2310 are sized to contain one or more of the added consumer products 3400, while allowing the consumer information material 3200 to remain supported and lie flush on the first inset surfaces 2350. In at least one example embodiment, the added consumer products 3400 are accessories and/or replacement items for the consumer product 1600. In at least one example embodiment, the insert 4800 includes items, or replacement items, for the consumer product 1600, as described herein in more detail. In at least one example embodiment, the consumer product 1600 is a mouthpiece as disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 17/979,103 (“Replaceable Mouthpieces for Aerosol-Generating Devices”), filed Nov. 2, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
In at least one example embodiment, an outer periphery of the second tray 510 is conformed to an interior of the first section 110, so that the second tray 510 fits fully inside the first section 110 (see
In at least one example embodiment, and as shown in at least
In at least one example embodiment, and as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, a total height (stackable height) 3700 of the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 connected together, as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, the floor 2355 of the first depression 2305 and the floor 2360 of the second depression 2310 of the second tray 510 of the second tray 510 contact the end wall 600 of the first section 110 of the outer container 100 (see
In at least one example embodiment, a general shape of the first tray 500 is conformed to a general shape of the first section 110 and the second section 120. In particular, and in at least one example embodiment, the sidewalls 917 of the first tray 500 are conformed to an interior surface of the first section 110 and the second section 120. In at least one example embodiment, and as described above, the sidewalls 917 of the first tray 500 fit into the ravine 3610 that is defined by the first section 110 and the second tray 510, while the ridge 130 of the first tray 500 is gripped by the peripheral edges 640 of the first section 110 and the second section 120.
In at least one example embodiment, the outer container 100 holding the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 has a width 4200 in the range of about 95 mm to 115 mm, or about 100 mm to 110 mm, or about 107 mm, with a height 4210 in the range of about 40 mm to 60 mm, or about 45 mm to 55 mm, or about 51 mm, and a length 4300 in the range of about 145 mm to 165 mm, or about 150 mm to 160 mm, or about 153 mm. In at least one example embodiment, a height 4220 of the first section 110 and the second section 120 is in the range of about 15 mm to 30 mm, or about 20 mm to 25 mm, or about 22 mm.
In at least one example embodiment, and as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, an internal depth 4400 of the first tray 500 is in the range of about 10 mm to 20 mm or about 12.5 mm to about 17.5 mm, or about 15 mm.
In at least one example embodiment, the package 4600 includes the outer container 100 with the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 (see
Insert
In at least one example embodiment, the insert 4800 includes the base 4810 and a lid 4850. In at least one example embodiment, the lid 4850 is connected to a brim 4840 of the base 4810. In at least one example embodiment, the lid 4850 covers a top end of the base 4810. In at least one example embodiment, the base 4810 includes a depression 4820 that defines a cavity 4830. In at least one example embodiment, the depression 4820 extends from a lower surface 5000 of the brim 4840 (
In at least one example embodiment, the depression 4820 includes corners 4940 where the walls 4960 are joined (
In at least one example embodiment, the brim 4840 includes an upper surface 5010 and the lower surface 5000 (see
In at least one example embodiment, the walls 4960 are flared outward, from a lower elevation to an upper elevation of the depression 4820 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the base 4810 and/or the lid 4850 are made from a thermoform plastic that is heated and then molded or extruded during a manufacturing process. In at least one example embodiment, the base 4810 and/or the lid 4850 are made from high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), or combinations thereof. In at least one example embodiment, the base 4810 and/or the lid 4850 are made from a material that is recyclable.
In at least one example embodiment, and as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, the cavity 4830 of the insert 4800 contains the consumer product 5400. In at least one example embodiment, the consumer product 5400 is a single consumer product. In at least one example embodiment, the consumer product 5400 is more than one consumer product, or an element or an accessory for a consumer product. In at least one example embodiment, the consumer product 5400 is an accessory for the consumer product 1600 (
In at least one example embodiment, the depression 4820 defines the cavity 4830 so that the cavity 4830 is conformed to an outer shape of the consumer product 5400. In at least one example embodiment, the consumer product 5400 includes a nose 5500 with a first width 5535 that is flared out at a distal end 5505 of the nose 5500 (see
In at least one example embodiment, the consumer product 5400 includes feet 5420 on a top portion and a bottom portion of the consumer product 5400 (see
In at least one example embodiment, the walls 4960 of the depression 4820 cradle and protect the consumer product 5400 so that the consumer product 5400 is shielded from movement or vigorous incidental shaking (see
In at least one example embodiment, the frame 5410 of the consumer product 5400 is at least partially cradled by the floor 4950, the corners 4980, the first sidewall 4920 and the second wall 4930 (see
In at least one example embodiment, the nose 5500 of the consumer product 5400 remains in a horizontal (level) position with the imaginary horizontal plane 5800 being substantially parallel to the floor 4950 of the depression 4820, such that the nose 5500 appears to be “floating” within the cavity 4830, due at least due to the frame 5410 being held in a “stabilized” position (as described above), with the feet 5420 contacting the floor 4950 and the first end wall 4900 and the second end wall 4910 contacting the nose 5500 and the frame 5410 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the base 4810 is made from a transparent or translucent material 6600. In this example embodiment, the consumer product 5400 can be seen through the walls 4960 of the depression 4820. In at least one example embodiment, the transparent material is polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET).
In at least one example embodiment, and as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, a length 6700 of the insert 4800 is in the range of about 90 mm to 110 mm, or about 95 mm to 100 mm, or about 97 mm. In at least one example embodiment, a depth 6710 of the depression 4820 is in the range of about or about 8 mm to 17 mm, or about 10 mm to 15 mm, or about 13 mm. In at least one example embodiment, a width 6850 of the insert 4800 is in the range of about 30 mm to 40 mm, or about 35 mm to 37.5 mm, or about 36 mm.
In at least one example embodiment, the lid 4850 is bonded onto the upper surface 5010 (see
In at least one example embodiment, the lid 4850 covers the upper surface 5010, as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, the base 4810 includes two depressions 4820. In at least one example embodiment, the depressions 4820 are in an “opposing configuration” 7000 (as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, the base 4810 includes two depressions 4820. In at least one example embodiment, the depressions 4820 are in a “non-opposing configuration” 7300 (as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, and as shown in
Band for Package
In at least one example embodiment, the band 520 (as shown in at least
In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7705 is a single strip (web) of material. In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7705 includes wide panels 7710 that are connected to each other. In at least one example embodiment, the wide panels 7710 are connected together by narrow panels 7720. In at least one example embodiment, each of the wide panels 7710 is separated from each other by at least one of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one example embodiment, the wide panels 7710 have a first width 7735 that are wider than a second width 7745 of the narrow panels 7720.
In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7705 includes two of the wide panels 7710. In at least one example embodiment, one of the narrow panels 7720 of the blank 7705 is between the wide panels 7710 and connects the wide panels 7710 together. In at least one example embodiment, terminal panels 7715 are on opposing distal ends of the blank 7705. In at least one example embodiment, the terminal panels 7715 include one of the narrow panels 7720 and one of the wide panels 7710 (as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, first fold lines 7775 separate the wide panels 7710 from the narrow panels 7720. In at least one example embodiment, second fold lines 7750 run along a width of some or all of the narrow panels 7720, where the second fold lines 7750 are perpendicular to a longitudinal length 7725 of the blank 7705. In at least one example embodiment, the first fold lines 7775 and the second fold lines 7750 can be creases, embossed lines, scored lines, etc. In at least one example embodiment, the first fold lines 7775 and the second fold lines 7750 define (subdivide) the narrow panels 7720 into a center panel 7760 and side panels 7755. In at least one example embodiment, the first fold lines 7775 and the second fold lines 7750 allow the band 7700 to more easily be wrapped around the outer container 100 to form the package 4600 that is sealed by the band 7700 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7705 defines a tear strip 7730. In at least one example embodiment, the tear strip 7730 runs perpendicular to the longitudinal length 7725 of the blank 7705. In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7705 defines more than one tear strip 7730. In at least one example embodiment, the tear strip 7730 is defined by at least one of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one example embodiment, the tear strip 7730 is defined by the center panel 7760 of at least one of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one example embodiment, the tear strip 7730 is defined by at least one of the wide panels 7710.
In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7705 includes indicia 7770 (see
In at least one example embodiment, the indicia 7770 are on a first side (upper surface) 7780 of the blank 7705, where a second side (lower surface) 7785 of the blank 7705 is anticipated to be connected to the outer container 100 and would therefore be obscured (see
In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7705 is flexible and able to form the band 7700 into a shape that matches outer surfaces of the outer container 100 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, a longitudinal length 7726 and a width 7735 of the wide panels 7710 is sized to conform the wide panels 7710 to a length and a width of the flat major surface 140 of the first section 110 and/or the second section 120 of the outer container 100 (see
In at least one example embodiment, at least one of the terminal panels 7715 includes a tab 7765 on a distal end of the terminal panel 7715. In at least one example embodiment, one of the second fold lines 7750 divide the tab 7765 from the terminal panel 7715. In at least one example embodiment, the tab 7765 is on the distal end of the terminal panel 7715 that is the narrow panel 7720. In another example embodiment, the tab 7765 is on the distal end of the terminal panel 7715 that is the wide panel 7710 (not shown). In at least one example embodiment, the tab 7765 includes sides edges 7795 that are angled and taper toward each other as the side edges 7795 reach a distal-most end 7796 of the tab 7765.
In at least one example embodiment, the longitudinal length 7725 of the blank 7705 is in the range of about or about 390 mm to 410 mm, or about 395 mm to 405 mm, or about 397 mm. In at least one example embodiment, the length 7726 of the wide panels 7710 are about or about 120 mm to 140 mm, or about 125 mm to 135 mm, or about 128 mm. In at least one example embodiment, a length 7790 of the narrow panels 7720 is in the range of about 55 mm to 70 mm, or about 60 mm to 65 mm, or about 63 mm. In at least one example embodiment, a width 7735 of the wide panels 7710 is in the range of about 75 mm to 90 mm, or about 80 mm to 85 mm, or about 82 mm. In at least one example embodiment, a width 7745 of the narrow panels 7720 is in the range of about 30 mm to 45 mm, or about 35 mm to 40 mm, or about 38 mm. In at least one example embodiment, the width 7735 of the wide panels 7710 is about twice the width 7745 of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one example embodiment, each of the wide panels 7710 has the same width 7735 that is a common width, and each of the narrow panels 7720 has the same width 7745 that is a common width. In at least one example embodiment, a length 7728 of the tab 7765 is in the range of about 10 mm to 15 mm, or about 13 mm.
The blank 7805 of
In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7805 includes the tear strip 7730 on each one of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one example embodiment, a tear direction 7855 of the tear strip 7730 on each of the narrow panels 7720 is in a parallel and opposite direction relative to each other (as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7805 is in the form of a “sticker” with a temporary adhesive on the second side 7785 of the blank 7805 (i.e., the side of the blank that is not visible in
In at least one example embodiment, a longitudinal length 7825 of the blank 7805 is in the range of about 340 mm to 360 mm, or about 345 mm to 355 mm, or about 349 mm. In at least one example embodiment, the longitudinal length 7820 of the terminal panels 7715 (wide panels 7810) of the blank 7805 is in the range of about 40 mm to 55 mm, or about 45 mm to 50 mm, or about 47 mm. In at least one example embodiment, the longitudinal length 7820 of the terminal panels 7715 are half, or less than half, the longitudinal length 7726 of the wide panel 7710 that is the center panel 7840 of the blank 7805. In at least one example embodiment, the longitudinal length 7820 of the terminal panels 7715 are one third (33%) of the longitudinal length 7726 of the wide panel 7726 that is the center panel 7840 of the blank 7805.
The blank 7905 of
In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7905 defines a tear strip 7930. In at least one example embodiment, the tear strip 7930 runs perpendicular to the longitudinal length 7925 of the blank 7905. In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7905 defines more than one of the tear strips 7930. In at least one example embodiment, the tear strip 7930 is defined by at least one of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one example embodiment, the tear strip 7930 is defined by at least one of the wide panels 7710. In at least one example embodiment, a tear direction 7955 of the tear strip 7930 is bi-directional, such that the tear strip 7930 can be pulled open by starting on either side of the tear strip 7930.
In at least one example embodiment, the terminal panel 7715 that is the narrow panel 7720 defines alignment notches on either side of the narrow panel 7720. As shown in
In at least one example embodiment, a length 7935 of the tab 7915 is in the range of about 3 mm to 5 mm, or about 4 mm.
In at least one example embodiment, the blanks 7705/7805/7905 are made from cardboard, paper, paperboard, other suitable packaging materials, or combinations thereof. In another example embodiment, the blanks 7705/7805/7905 are made from plastic, one or more polymer layers, a foil, polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polypropylene (PP), or other layers or combinations of layers of material,
In at least one example embodiment, and as shown in
In at least one example embodiment, the tear strip 7730 includes slits 8000 aligned in a row on a first side 8015 and a second side 8025 of the tear strip 7730. In at least one example embodiment, the slits 8000 are “V”-shaped. In at least one example embodiment, the slits 8000 include a first portion 8005 and a second portion 8010, where the first portion 8005 of each of the slits 8000 are aligned to be co-linear with each other on the first side 8015 and the second side 8025 of the tear strip 7730, and the second portion 8010 extends toward a centerline 8055 of the tear strip 7730. In at least one example embodiment, the first portions 8005 of each of the slits 8000 extend from an apex 8070 of the slits 8000 in a direction that is parallel with, and in a same direction as, the tear direction 7855 of the tear strip 7730. In at least one example embodiment, a gap 8020 exists between the first portion 8005 of each of the slits 8000. In at least one example embodiment, the slits 8000 are equally spaced apart, such that the gap 8020 is a uniform gap between each of the slits 8000. In at least one example embodiment, a gap 8045 may exist between the first side edge 8050 of the blanks 7705/7805 and an end 8075 of the first portion 8005 of the slits 8000. In at least one example embodiment, the gap 8045 does not exist for some of the blanks 7705/7805 (for example, see the blank 7705 in
In at least one example embodiment, notches 8030 are defined by the second side edge 8060 of the blanks 7705/7805 on sides of the leading end 8035 of the tear strip 7730 to assist in initiating the tearing of the tear strip 7730.
In at least one example embodiment, the tear strip 7930 of the blank 7905 (
In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7705 is folded so that the tab 7765 reaches around and connects to the second side 7785 of the blank 7705 to configure the band 7700 to fit around a package (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the blank 7705 is formed into the band 7700 by connecting the tab 7765 to a portion of the wide panel 7710 using the added adhesive (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the band 7700 runs along a longitudinal length of the outer container 100, such that the narrow panels 7720 extend across the second sidewalls 620 of the outer container 100, where the second sidewalls 620 are shorter than the first sidewalls 610 of the outer container 100 (see
In at least one example embodiment, the band 7800 is connected to the outer container 100 in the same manner as the band 7700, with the following exceptions described herein. In at least one example embodiment, a gap 9100 exists between the end edges 7860 of the terminal panels 7715 of the band 7800, once the band 7800 is connected to the outer container 100 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the second side 7785 of the band 7800 is connected to the outer container 100 using the temporary adhesive and/or the added adhesive. In at least one example embodiment, the band 7800 hugs outer surfaces of the outer container 100, where the band 7800 hugs the rounded side edges 210 of the outer container 100 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the band 7900 is connected to the outer container 100 in the same manner as the band 7700, with the following exceptions described herein. In at least one example embodiment, the tab 7765 is connected to the second side 7785 of the blank 7905 to form the band 7900 (see at least
In at least one example embodiment, the band 7900 is not adhesively connected to the outer container 100. In at least another example embodiment, at least a portion of the second side 7785 of the band 7900 is connected to the outer container 100 using the temporary adhesive and/or the added adhesive. In at least one example embodiment, the first side 7780 and the second side 7785 of the band 7900 is interchangeable, such that the first side 7880 of the band 7900 can be connected to the outer container 100, once the band 7900 is on the outer container 100. In at least one example embodiment, the band 7900 hugs outer surfaces of the outer container 100, where the band 7900 hugs the rounded side edges 210 of the outer container 100 (see at least
Example embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.
Claims
1. A blank, comprising:
- two or more wide panels; and
- at least two narrow panels attached to the two or more wide panels, each of the two or more wide panels being separated from each other by at least one of the at least two narrow panels,
- a first narrow panel, of the at least two narrow panels, defining a first tear strip, the first tear strip having a first longitudinal length that spans across a first width of the first narrow panel, the first longitudinal length being perpendicular to a second longitudinal length of the blank.
2. The blank of claim 1, wherein the blank is configured to be at least partially wrapped around an outer container, a first shape of the two or more wide panels being conformed to a second shape of two major surfaces on the outer container.
3. The blank of claim 2, wherein the two or more wide panels are configured to directly contact and at least partially cover the two major surfaces, the two major surfaces opposing each other on the outer container.
4. The blank of claim 2, wherein the at least two narrow panels are configured to at least partially cover an opening of the outer container to provide tamper resistance.
5. The blank of claim 2, wherein the first tear strip is configured to be aligned with and at least partially cover an opening of the outer container to provide tamper resistance.
6. The blank of claim 1, wherein an outer surface of the two or more wide panels includes indicia, the indicia including consumer information.
7. The blank of claim 1, wherein a first outer surface of the two or more wide panels and a second outer surface of the at least two narrow panels includes indicia, the indicia including consumer information.
8. The blank of claim 1, wherein each of the two or more wide panels have first major surfaces that are substantially rectangular in shape, the first major surfaces having first rounded corners.
9. The blank of claim 1, wherein each of the two or more wide panels have a second width that is about twice as wide as the first width.
10. The blank of claim 9, wherein the at least two narrow panels include a second narrow panel, the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel each having a same width that is the first width.
11. The blank of claim 1, wherein the blank is a single web of material.
12. The blank of claim 1, wherein the blank is mounted on a backing via at least one adhesive, the blank being configured to be peeled off of the backing prior to being connected to an outer container.
13. The blank of claim 1, wherein terminal panels on distal ends of the blank include the first narrow panel and a first wide panel of the two or more wide panels.
14. The blank of claim 1, wherein terminal panels on distal ends of the blank include a second narrow panel of the at least two narrow panels and a first wide panel of the two or more wide panels.
15. The blank of claim 14, wherein a tab extends from a distal end of the second narrow panel, the tab being configured to be adhesively connected to the first wide panel when the blank is wrapped around an outer container.
16. The blank of claim 14, wherein the first narrow panel is between the first wide panel and a second wide panel, the second wide panel being one of the two or more wide panels, the first wide panel and the second wide panel being equally sized panels.
17. The blank of claim 16, wherein side edges of the second narrow panel define a pair of alignment notches, the pair of alignment notches being aligned across a third width of the of the second narrow panel, the third width being perpendicular to the second longitudinal length.
18. The blank of claim 1, wherein terminal panels on distal ends of the blank include a first wide panel and a second wide panel of the two or more wide panels.
19. The blank of claim 18, wherein the first narrow panel is between the first wide panel and a third wide panel, and a second narrow panel of the at least two narrow panels is between the second wide panel and the third wide panel, the third wide panel being one of the two or more wide panels.
20. The blank of claim 19, wherein the two or more wide panels each have a second width, the first wide panel and the second wide panel each having a third longitudinal length, the third longitudinal length being shorter than a fourth longitudinal length of the third wide panel.
21. The blank of claim 20, wherein the first wide panel and the second wide panel define straight end edges on distal-most ends of the blank, the straight end edges being perpendicular to the second longitudinal length, the third wide panel having a first major surface that is substantially rectangular in shape.
22. The blank of claim 21, wherein the first major surface has first rounded corners with a first radius of curvature, the first wide panel and the second wide panel defining second rounded corners with a second radius of curvature on ends of the straight end edges, the second radius of curvature being is smaller than the first radius of curvature.
23. The blank of claim 22, wherein the first wide panel and the second wide panel each define a pair of opposing rounded corners that face the third wide panel, the pair of opposing rounded corners having a third radius of curvature that is equal to the first radius of curvature.
24. The blank of claim 20, wherein the second narrow panel defines a second tear strip.
25. The blank of claim 24, wherein the first tear strip is configured to be torn open in a first direction and the second tear strip is configured to be torn open in a second direction, the first direction being in a parallel and opposite direction relative to the second direction.
26. The blank of claim 1, wherein the first tear strip is defined at least in part by a pair of parallel rows of slits, a tear direction of the first tear strip being one or a single direction or bi-directional.
27. A package, comprising:
- an outer container; and
- the blank of claim 1 at least partially wrapped around the outer container.
28. The package of claim 27, wherein a first shape of the two or more wide panels is conformed to at least a portion of a second shape of two major surfaces of the outer container.
29. The package of claim 27, wherein each the two or more wide panels are configured to directly contact at least a portion of two opposing major surfaces on the outer container.
30. The package of claim 29, wherein each of the two or more wide panels are adhesively connected to at least a portion of two opposing major surfaces on the outer container.
31. The package of claim 28, wherein the two opposing major surfaces are equally sized, the two opposing major surfaces being in planes that are parallel to each other.
32. The package of claim 28, wherein the outer container includes a first section and a second section that are joined together at a seam, wherein the first tear strip is aligned with and at least partially covers a portion of the seam to provide tamper resistance for the package.
33. The package of claim 28, wherein the outer container includes a first section and a second section that are joined together at a seam that circumscribes the outer container, wherein the at least two narrow panels includes a second narrow panel, the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel each spanning across the seam.
34. The package of claim 33, wherein the second narrow panel defines a second tear strip, the first tear strip and the second tear strip being aligned with and at least partially covering the seam to provide tamper resistance.
35. The package of claim 33, wherein side edges of the second narrow panel define a pair of alignment notches, the first tear strip and the pair of alignment notches being aligned with and at least partially covering the seam to provide tamper resistance.
36. The package of claim 33, wherein the blank circumscribes the outer container.
37. The package of claim 28, wherein at least a portion of the two or more wide panels is adhesively connected to the outer container, the blank not fully encompassing the outer container.
38. The package of claim 37, wherein the blank includes two terminal panels on distal ends of the blank, the two terminal panels each being one of the two or more wide panels, a gap existing between end edges of the two terminal panels that expose a section of the outer container that is viewable once the blank is connected to the outer container.
39. The package of claim 33, wherein the outer container includes rounded side edges along a first end wall and a second end wall of the first section and the second section, the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel including fold lines that subdivide a portion of the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel into chamfered sections, the chamfered sections lying across and directly contacting at least portions of the rounded side edges.
Type: Application
Filed: Nov 7, 2022
Publication Date: May 9, 2024
Applicant: Altria Client Services LLC (Richmond, VA)
Inventors: Andrew T Peeler (Richmond, VA), Christopher L. Simpson (Richmond, VA), Terrance T Bache (Richmond, VA), Evan A Hutker (Dedham, MA), Aniket K Warade (Boston, MA)
Application Number: 18/053,086