PACKAGE WITH IMPACT RESISTANT STRUCTURE

Abstract

An apparatus includes: a flexible extended holder having two opposing ends and capable of being taut; a container having two opposing walls and an adjacent wall connecting them; a first engagement device couplable to a first end of the flexible extended holder and configured to removably engage a first wall of the container; and a second engagement device couplable to a second end of the flexible extended holder and configured to removably engage a second wall of the container. In an assembled configuration, the first engagement device is coupled to the first end of the flexible extended holder and is engaged with the first wall of the container, the second engagement device is coupled to the second end of the flexible extended holder and is engaged with the second wall of the container, and the flexible extended holder tautly holds the object within the flexible extended holder.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/781,553, filed Apr. 1, 2025, and is a continuation-in-part of International Application No. PCT/US2024/052234, filed Oct. 21, 2024, which claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/591,947, filed Oct. 20, 2023. Each of the foregoing applications is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to the field of shipping cartons, and more particularly to a shipping box with modular components designed to use minimal packing material and provide protection for fragile items. The items are held in small holders connected to the outer box by flexible and impact resistant devices.

BACKGROUND

Shipping cartons require strength and durability to protect often fragile contents from damage during shipping. Single cartons shipped by courier companies must be designed with materials that can withstand impact. The carton materials are most often made of cardboard or other form of paper, and often coated with waterproofing chemicals. Multiple adhesives and tape must be used to wrap and seal the carton. Furthermore, an item normally cannot be allowed to move about within the carton. The packer will usually stuff the carton with cushioning materials such as polymer aircushions, paper, foam, or materials that provide cushioning for the fragile item. Most of the materials used in packing are not reused, nor reusable, and have either limited or no recyclability characteristics. This presents a problem in wastage as most of the materials end up in landfill or worse, directly thrown into the ocean, or alongside roads.

SUMMARY

The overall objective of this disclosure is to disclose a packaging device that utilizes a minimum of materials, provide protection from impact for the enclosed fragile items, and allows for some, if not all components of the device to be reused multiple times. Furthermore, the device components can be interchangeable with other components depending on the specific design requirements for sending a particular package.

After a receiver removes the shipped item from the package, they can reuse the package components for other items. For example, a particular box can be fitted to ship a single large item or, by switching components, multiple small components. The receiver can also return the empty shipping package to the supplier, or designated collection centers.

Existing challenges associated with the foregoing, as well as other challenges, are overcome by the presently disclosed multi-functional shipping/packaging apparatus by providing users with an apparatus that protects enclosed fragile items, by utilizing a flexible holding mechanism that is capable of being taut when coupled with a container. The apparatus has strength, durability, and reusability. It removes the need to pack in wasteful materials to cushion a fragile item and prevent it from hitting the side walls of the box, risking breakage. Thus, it allows for items to be secured in place and for users to maintain the quality of the item upon shipment.

An aspect of the present disclosure provides an apparatus, including: a flexible extended holder, configured to hold an object and comprised of two opposing ends and being capable of being taut; a container comprising two opposing walls and at least one adjacent wall connecting the two opposing walls; a first engagement device couplable to a first end of the two opposing ends of the flexible extended holder and configured to removably engage a first wall of the two opposing walls of the container; and a second engagement device couplable to a second end of the two opposing ends of the flexible extended holder and configured to removably engage a second wall of the two opposing walls of the container. In an assembled configuration, the first engagement device is coupled to the first end of the flexible extended holder and is engaged with the first wall of the container, the second engagement device is coupled to the second end of the flexible extended holder and is engaged with the second wall of the container, and the flexible extended holder tautly holds the object within the flexible extended holder.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the first engagement device may include a first clamp configured to removably couple to the first end of the flexible extended holder and the first wall of the container may comprise an outer surface and a first slot.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, in the assembled position, the first clamp may engage the outer surface of the first wall of the container, and the flexible extended holder may extend through the first slot of the first wall.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the second engagement device may comprise a second clamp configured to removably couple to the second end of the flexible extended holder and the second wall of the container may comprise an outer surface and a second slot.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, in the assembled position, the second clamp may engage the outer surface of the second wall of the container, and the flexible extended holder may extend through the second slot of the second wall.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the first clamp may be removable from the first wall and the second clamp may be removable from the second wall.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the second engagement device may comprise a tape having an end adhered to the second end of the flexible extended holder, the second wall of the container may comprise an outer surface and a second slot, and in the assembled position, the tape may extend through the second slot of the second wall and may contact the outer surface of the second wall of the container.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, a second flexible extended holder may be configured to hold an object, an end of the second flexible extended holder may be adhered to another end of the tape, the second wall of the container may comprise a further slot, and the tape may extend through the further slot of the second wall and contact the outer surface of the second wall of the container.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, a second clamp may be removably coupled to another end of the second flexible extended holder, the first wall may comprise a further slot, and the second clamp may engage the outer surface of the first wall and a portion of the second flexible extended holder may extends through the further slot of the first wall.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the first engagement device may comprise one of: a first clip or a first hook configured to removably couple to the first end of the flexible extended holder, the first wall of the container may comprise an outer surface and a first slot, and in the assembled position, the first clip or the first hook may engage the outer surface of the first wall of the container, and the flexible extended holder may extend through the first slot of the first wall.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the second engagement device may comprise one of: a second clip or a second hook configured to removably couple to the second end of the flexible extended holder, the second wall of the container may comprise an outer surface and a second slot, and in the assembled position, the second clip or the second hook may engage the outer surface of the second wall of the container, and the flexible extended holder may extend through the second slot of the second wall.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the first engagement device may further comprise a first tab connected to the first clamp by a first connector and the second engagement device may further comprise a second tab connected to the second clamp by a second connector.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the first wall of the container may comprise an outer surface and a first slot, the second wall of the container may comprise an outer surface and a second slot, and in the assembled position, the first connector may extend through the first slot of the first wall and the first tab may engage the outer surface of the first wall of the container, and the second connector may extend through the second slot of the second wall and the second tab may engage the outer surface of the second wall of the container.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the first tab may be removable from the first wall and the second tab may be removable from the second wall.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, a frame may be secured to a perimeter of the flexible extended holder, the frame may include the first engagement device and the second engagement device.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the container may comprise a second adjacent wall connecting the first wall and the second wall, and in the assembled position, the frame may engage an intersection of the first wall and the adjacent wall and may engage an intersection of the second wall and the second adjacent wall by friction.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the apparatus may further include a box, and the container may be configured to fit within the box.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, the container may be a carton insert and may be configured to be inserted into the box.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other features of this disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows the main components of one variation of the disclosure utilizing an extender holder.

FIG. 2 shows a sequence depicting how to insert and enclose an item within the extender holder using a clamp.

FIG. 3 shows a method to secure the item within the holder using upper and lower tape stays.

FIG. 4 shows how an extender holder is secured within a slotted insert.

FIG. 5 shows the sequence of inserting the packed extender holder into the slotted insert.

FIGS. 6a-6c shows the mechanics of how the disclosure works.

FIG. 7 shows the slotted insert placed into the outer carton.

FIG. 8 shows a version of the disclosure where the extender holder is inserted directly into the outer carton and secured with a flap.

FIGS. 9a and 9b show top and bottom views of a version of the disclosure where the extender holder consists of two sides, each able to receive an item.

FIG. 10 is a sequence showing how the extender holder is secured to the outer part of the slotted insert using a strip of tape.

FIG. 11 shows the main components of a version of the disclosure where the item is inserted into a pouch which is suspended between two sides of the insert by flexible connectors.

FIG. 12 shows one way in which an item is placed and secured within the pouch.

FIG. 13 is a sequence that shows how the pouch is placed inside a carton insert.

FIG. 14 shows the connector carton insert placed inside an outer carton.

FIG. 15 shows a version where the flexible connectors are attached between sides of an outer carton.

FIG. 16 shows the main components of a version of the disclosure in which the item is placed between two halves of a frame holder and then held between two opposite corners of an outer carton.

FIG. 17 shows how the item is enclosed by the frame holder.

FIG. 18 shows how the frame holder is inserted into the outer carton.

FIGS. 19a-19c show multiple designs of the above disclosure where multiple items, inserted into multiple holders are secured into an outer carton.

FIG. 20 shows a single frame structure attached to a hammock holder.

FIG. 21 shows multiple single frame structures each attached to a hammock holders.

FIG. 22 shows multiple single frame structures each attached to a hammock holder and supported by a pair of anchors.

FIGS. 23-26c show another variation of the disclosure.

Some embodiments of the disclosure are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the embodiments of the present disclosure only, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the disclosure. The description taken with the drawings makes it apparent to those skilled in the art how the various forms of the disclosure may be embodied in practice.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the drawings wherein like reference numerals identify similar or identical elements.

Although the present disclosure will be described in terms of specific aspects and examples, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in this art that various modifications, rearrangements, and substitutions may be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

For purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to exemplary aspects illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the present disclosure is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the novel features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the present disclosure as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the present disclosure.

An aspect of the disclosure describes a package composed of an outer container. A fragile item is stored in a holder located at a distance from the side walls of the outer container and is connected to the outer container by a flexible but taut, impact resistant flexible extended holder. This package requires a minimum of, or no additional cushioning within the outer or inner containers to prevent the item from breaking, relying instead on the relatively flexible connecting system to absorb stressful impacts to the package.

The connecting system is composed of two or more extenders that are affixed via connectors or frame structures to at least two sides of the package. The extender material is at least partially made of a relatively flexible and/or stretchable material. The item is enclosed in a holder that is connected to, or is a part of the extender, and is accessible through one or more openings built into either the extender or holder. The open utilizes an easily closed closure mechanism.

In one design, the extender is comprised of an extender that can be disconnected from the package's outer wall thereby allowing access through the orifice of a soft, flexible extender and into a soft or cushioned holder. Another version describes two rectangular frames hinged on one side like a sandwich. Inside each frame is stretched a relatively soft mesh whose center can act as a holder for the item. The frame is placed into the outer carton such that two sides are in contact with at least two of the outer carton side walls, or the walls of compartments within the box.

Various modular designs allow the connecting systems to be completely disconnected from the outer container or the frame insert. In this case the various components of the disclosure can be interchanged with other components whose dimensions allow it to function as described below. Various parts can be reused for shipping and protecting other items for further shipments. Also, all the componentry can be made from environmentally sustainable materials.

One application of this disclosure is as a shipper, into which a fragile item might be inserted such as perfume, a glass ornament, or an electronic device. Such boxes are used by courier services, including the postal service. The disclosure can also be designed as a larger carton box that can contain multiple items set in an array of extenders holding fragile items and separated by empty space.

Another market application could be for distribution of critical medical suppliers as they travel through difficult environments such as challenging terrains or even conflict zones where reusable, sturdy, and expensive wooden crates are required. Frequently such packaging would be airlifted to location and transported over rough roads. Embodiments described herein generally relate to a package holder or packaging device, and more particularly to a package holder or packaging device for items. Examples of items include, without limitation, fragile objects, electronics, and/or medical devices. For ease of description, a package holder and/or packaging device may be referred to herein as an apparatus.

The present disclosure describes an apparatus that includes a flexible extended holder, a container, a first engagement device, and a second engagement device. The flexible extended holder is configured to hold an object and includes two opposing ends. The container includes two opposing walls and at least one adjacent wall connecting the two opposing walls. The first engagement device and the second engagement device connect the flexible extender holder and the container. The first engagement device is couplable to a first end of the two opposing ends of the flexible extended holder and is configured to removably engage a first wall of the two opposing walls of the container. The second engagement device is couplable to a second end of the two opposing ends of the flexible extended holder and is configured to removably engage a second wall of the two opposing walls of the container.

In an assembled form, the first engagement device is coupled to the first end of the flexible extended holder and is engaged with the first wall of the container and the second engagement device is coupled to the second end of the flexible extended holder and is engaged with the second wall of the container. The flexible extended holder tautly holds the object within the flexible extended holder.

As used herein, the terms “item” and “object” may be used interchangeably.

FIGS. 1-10 describe an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, explained below, the container is a slotted carton insert and the flexible extended holder is an extender holder. The first engagement device and the second engagement device is a clamp. Generally, an engagement device as disclosed herein may be or include a clamp, a clip, a hook, Velcro-type device, a tab, and/or other types of engagement devices.

The disclosure may consists of two parts: an outer carton 401 that is constructed to be sent through a postal or courier network and an apparatus which holds a fragile item and is connected to the outer carton 401.

FIG. 1 shows the main components of one variation of the disclosure utilizing an extender holder 101. The extender holder may be or include a tube, a spring, or a cord with elastic attributes. There are one or more ITEMS 901 enclosed in a flexible and relatively soft EXTENDER HOLDER 101. The item 901 might be anything that is fragile or prone to damage when placed into a container and shipped to another location. The extender holder 101 in this example is shown to be a plastic net material. Alternatively, the extender holder 101 could be comprised of other flexible materials such as fabric, foam, or plastic. There is a SLOTTED CARTON INSERT 201 structure which is dimensioned to fit snuggly into a standard OUTER CARTON 401. The extender holders 101 are stretched between and through two sides of the SLOTTED INSERT INSIDE SURFACE 202 as described later. At least one end of the extender holder 101 extends outside the slotted carton insert 201 and is held in place against the SLOTTED INSERT OUTSIDE SURFACE 203 by a CLAMP 301. Though a clamp is suggested in this example, other closing methods can be used including adhesive, ties, or a simple knot.

The item 901 is held away from the bottom slotted insert inside surface 205 by a LOWER TAPE STAY 321. In the drawing, the lower tape stay 321 consists of two pieces of tape whose adhesive sides adhere to one another so that a support is formed to allow the item 901, encased in the extender holder 101 to be supported. The lower tape stay 321 can also be a stitched thread that is woven across the net material, or a region in which the net is fused together such that the sides of the extender holder 101 cannot be separated.

FIG. 2 shows a sequence depicting how to insert, and enclose an item 901 within the extender holder 101 using a clamp 301. The item 901 and two soft CUSHIONS 920 are inserted through the EXTENDER OPENING 121. As shown in FIG. 2(i), a cushion 920 is first placed in the bottom of the extender holder 101, followed by the item 901, and finally a second cushion 920. The bottom cushion 920 serves the same function as the lower stay tape 321, as described in FIG. 1. It keeps the item 901 away from the slotted insert inside surface 202 but still allows the extender holder 101 to move laterally as described in FIGS. 6a-6c. In FIG. 2(ii), the extender opening 121 is closed and a clamp 301 grips the extender holder 101 closed. In FIG. 2(iii) the extender holder 101 is closed and ready to be inserted into the slotted carton insert 201 as described below. The extender holder 101 can be clamped before or after being inserted into the slotted carton insert 201.

FIG. 3 shows a method to secure the item 901 within the extender holder 101 using upper tape stay 322 and lower tape stays 321. The lower tape stay 321 supports the item 901 from the bottom. The UPPER TAPE STAY 322 holds the item 901 in place from the top. The lower section of the extender holder 101 forms the LOWER EXTENDER RESISTANCE AREA 123. The upper section of the extender holder 101 forms the UPPER EXTENDER RESISTANCE AREA 124. The function of these areas will be described in FIGS. 6a-6c.

FIG. 4 shows how a extender holder 101 is secured within a slotted carton insert 201. There are various ways that this component can be designed. But the concept consists of a rigid insert with one or more sets of slots cut into the slotted carton insert 201. In this drawing, there is a set of UPPER SLOTS 211 and corresponding LOWER SLOTS 212. The filled extender holder 101 described in FIG. 3 are stretched between the paired slots. The lower part of the extender holder 130 is inserted into a lower slot 212. It could be affixed to the bottom by any number of means including adhesive, glue, or a clamp. The top part of the extender holder 126 extends through the upper slot 212 and is held in place with a clamp 301. The clamp 301 is slightly wider than the upper slot 212 so that it does not fall through the opening.

FIG. 5 shows a method for inserting the packed extender holder 101 into the slotted insert 201. FIG. 5(i) shows the empty extender holder 101 already inserted through the lower slot 212. The INSERT LID 214 is in an open position. In FIG. 5(ii) the extender holder 101 is open and an item 901 is about to be inserted through the extender opening 121. There is a lower tape stay 321 to hold the item 901 in place. The stay is not yet adhered together. The item 901 will be inserted into the extender holder 101 and will be followed by a cushion 920. After the insert lid 214 is closed, the top of the extender holder 126 will be inserted through the upper slot 211. As shown in FIG. 5(iii) the clamp 301 will then grip onto the extender holder 101. The lower tape stay 321 will be adhered together as shown in FIG. 5(iv).

FIGS. 6a-6c shows the mechanics of how the disclosure works. In all versions of the disclosure, the item is held within some sort of holding mechanism. That mechanism is either connected to the inside of a rigid insert which is then placed within an outer carton, or the holding mechanism is connected directly to the outer carton itself. The connector, or the connecting mechanism is flexible and/or stretchable, and can withstand external impacts to the outer carton. It does this by flexing and stretching in response to inertial impacts to the overall package. In this way, it absorbs the energy and trauma from external forces. In doing so, it serves the same purpose as that of filling material such as bubble wrap, crumpled paper, or foam would. In the event of trauma to the package, the item would be forced against the relatively soft inner surface of the holder and the stress of the trauma would be substantially absorbed by the flexible connections that attach the holding area immediately surrounding the item, to the rigid structure of either the insert, as is show in the figure, or the outer carton itself.

FIG. 6a shows a cross section of the item 901 enclosed by a EXTENDER CONTAINMENT AREA 125. This area could be the center portion of the extender holder 101 discussed previously or, the pouch discussed starting in FIG. 11, or center of the frame net discussed starting in FIG. 16. In this case the extender containment area is connected to the slotted carton insert 201 via a HIGHER EXTENDER RESISTENCE AREA 124 and a LOWER EXTENDER RESISTENCE AREA 123 through an upper slot 211 and a lower slot 212 respectively. The overall package is stationary and there are no inertial forces acting on the package, nor the item.

FIG. 6b shows the contents of the package accelerating toward the right. The item 901 is, through inertial forces, pushed against the left side of the extender containment area 125. The single arrow shows the inertia direction of the item. The upper and lower arrows show the directions of the forces of resistance created by the stretching and flexing of the higher extender resistance area 124 and lower extender resistance area 123.

FIG. 6c shows the contents of the package accelerating toward the left. The item 901 is, through inertial forces, pushed against the right side of the extender containment area 125. The single arrow shows the inertia direction of the item. The upper and lower arrows show the directions of the forces of resistance created by the stretching and flexing of the higher extender resistance area 124 and lower extender resistance area 123.

By this method, the item will be protected from trauma if the surrounding package is dropped or tossed about.

FIG. 7 shows the slotted carton insert 201 being placed into the outer carton 401. The slotted carton insert can be made sturdy enough to be reused by the receiver of the package or, can be folded and returned to the sender. The slotted carton insert 201, as other inserts that will be discussed below, add strength to the outer carton.

FIG. 8 shows a sequence i-ii version of the disclosure where extender holders 101 are inserted directly into the outer carton 401 and secured with an outer flap 413. In FIG. 8(i), the bottom of the extender holders 130 are secured within the FLAP OUTER CARTON 410. The top parts of the extender holders 126 extend through CARTON TOP OPENINGS 415 cut into the CARTON TOP 414. In this drawing, one of the extender holders 101 is open and an item 901 is being inserted through the extender opening 121. A flexible but tough OUTER FLAP 413 is attached on one side of the flap outer carton via FLAP ADHESIVE 416. FIG. 8(ii) shows the flap carton 410 with the outer flap 413 covering over the carton top 414 and affixed to both sides of the carton at areas of flap adhesive 416.

FIGS. 9a and 9b show top and bottom views of a version of the disclosure where DOUBLE EXTENDER HOLDER 135 consisting of two sides, each able to receive an item 901. The two sides are strung through a pair of lower slots 212 and whose ends can be threaded through a pair of upper slots 211. Each end of the double extender holder 135 can be filled with an item 901 and secured with a clamp 301, as described above. The two sides of the double extender holder 135 are connected by a DOUBLE EXTENDER STRIP 136.

FIG. 10 is a sequence showing how the extender holder is secured to the outer part of the slotted insert using a strip of tape. FIG. 10(i) through FIG. 10(iv) show a method of placing the extender holder 101 into the slotted carton insert 201 that is similar to that described in FIG. 5. In this case though, a clamp is not used to secure the top portion of a filled extender holder to the slotted insert outer surface 203. Instead, after the item 901 is placed into the extender holder 101 and the lower tape stay 321 and upper tape stay322 are applied, the EXTENDER UPPER SECTION 127 is threaded through the upper slot 211 and bent against the slotted insert outer surface 203 and adhered to the surface with a TAPE STRIP 910.

FIGS. 11-15 describe an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, explained below, the flexible extended holder is a pouch and the container is a connector carton insert. The first engagement device and second engagement device are or include tabs that are connected to an extended holder via clamps, clips, hooks, Velcro-type holder, or other mechanisms.

FIG. 11 shows main components of a version of the disclosure where a HAMMOCK HOLDER 500 containing an item 901 is inserted into a POUCH 501 which is stretched between the two sides of a CONNECTOR CARTON INSERT 231 via flexible CONNECTORS 523. The connectors have TABS 524 that can be inserted through CONNECTOR INSERT HOLES 234 cut through two sides of the connector carton insert 231.

FIG. 12 shows a sequence describing one way in which an item 901 is placed and secured within the pouch 501. FIG. 12(i) shows the pouch 501 attached to the connectors 532 via CLIPS 522. The tabs 524 can be rotated about the connectors 523 so that they may be inserted through the connector insert holes 234 in the connector carton insert 231 as described below. FIG. 12(ii) shows the item 901 inserted into the pouch 501 through the POUCH OPENING 521. FIG. 12(iii) shows the clips 522, attached to the pouch 501 so that the pouch is closed and the item 901 secured.

FIG. 13 is a sequence that shows how the hammock holder 500 is placed inside a connector carton insert 231. FIG. 13(i) shows the connector carton insert 231 with connector insert holes 234 on either side. These holes correspond to the tabs 524 on the hammock holder 500. FIG. 13(ii) shows the hammock holder 500 as it is lowered into the carton insert 231 and the tabs 524 rotated slightly so it can be threaded through the connector insert holes 234. FIG. 13(iii) shows the tabs 524 rotated horizontally so that it is flush against the CONNECTOR INSERT OUTER SURFACE 233. The hammock holder 500 is now locked into place. FIG. 13(iv) shows the connector carton insert 231, lowered into an outer carton 401.

FIG. 14 shows the connector carton insert 231 inside an outer carton 401.

FIG. 15 shows a version where the flexible connectors 523 are attached between sides of a CONNECTOR OUTER CARTON 420. The tabs 524 of the hammock holder 500 are inserted through the OUTER CARTON HOLES 430.

FIGS. 16-19 describe an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, explained below, the flexible extended holder is a framed holder, the first engagement device is a first frame border and the second engagement device is a second frame border.

FIG. 16 shows the main components of a version of the disclosure in which the item is placed between two halves of a frame holder 600 and then held between two opposite corners of an outer carton 401. The frame holder 600 includes a FRAME BORDER ONE 601 inside which is stretched a flexible FRAME NET ONE 603, and a FRAME BORDER TWO 602 in which is stretched a flexible FRAME NET TWO 604. An item 901 is shown about to be placed within this structure.

FIG. 17 shows a sequence i-iv of how an item 901 is placed within the frame structure. FIG. 17 (i) shows the closed FRAME HOLDER 600. The frame border one 601 and frame border two 602 are connected by a FRAME HINGE 605. FIG. 17 (ii) shows the frame holder 600 in an open position. FIG. 17 (iii) shows the item 901 being inserted into the frame holder 600. FIG. 17 (iv) shows the closed frame containing the item 901.

FIG. 18 shows a sequence i-ii of how the frame holder 600 is inserted into the outer carton 401. In this case the frame holder 600 is inserted diagonally. The frame holder 600 can also be inserted parallel to one pair of box sides or even askew.

FIGS. 19a-19c show multiple designs of the above disclosure where multiple items, inserted into multiple flexible extended holders are secured into an outer carton. FIG. 19a show a pair of HALF-SIZE FRAME HOLDERS 620 placed into an outer carton 401. FIG. 19b show a set of four SMALL FRAME HOLDERS 621 placed into OUTER CARTON COMPARTMENTS 440. FIG. 19c shows a set of four SMALL HAMMOCK HOLDERS 540 inserted into outer carton compartments 440 through holes that support the devices similar to those described in FIGS. 11-15.

FIG. 20 describe an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, explained below, the flexible extended holder is a pouch and the container is a single frame. The first engagement device and second engagement device are connectors.

FIG. 20 shows a SINGLE FRAME 606 structure with a hammock holder 500 stretched between opposite sides of the single frame 606. The hammock holder 500 can be attached to the single frame 606 by any number of means. In this case, the attachment is by a simple FRAME CONNECTION 530, such as a screw, nail, or any suitable means. The single frame 606 is then placed into the outer carton 401. The item 901 can be inserted into the hammock holder 500 by the same means as described in FIG. 12. The single frame 606 is then placed within an outer carton 401. Though the single frame 606 is oriented diagonally, it could be oriented parallel to the outer carton sides 401 or parallel to the bottom of the outer carton inner surface 402, and affixed to the side by such common means as glue or adhesive.

FIG. 21 shows the device described in FIG. 20 but with multiple single frame structures 606, each with multiple attached hammock holders 500. The single frame structures 606 are held in place within the outer carton 401 by ANCHORS 450 attached to the outer carton 401. An alternative design has the single frame structures 606 held in place within an insert which is in turn placed within the outer carton 401.

FIG. 22 shows multiple single frame structures 606, each with multiple attached hammock holders 500 supported by a pair of ANCHORS 450. In this example the sides of the frames are inserted into ANCHOR SLOTS 451. The anchor slots 451 are cut into the anchors 450. The anchors 450 are fitted into the outer carton 401 such that they are securely positioned and unable to move. Other methods to attach the single frames 606 to the side might include pegs, magnets, or adhesives.

FIG. 23 shows the main components of one variation of the disclosure utilizing a POUCH 1200, the bottom of which is connected to a CARTON BASE EXTENSION 1107 which in turn is connected to a CARTON BASE 1106. The upper portion of the POUCH is inserted though an INNER FLAP HOLE 1108 which is threaded through the INNER FLAP 1103. The INNER FLAP is folded over the top of the CARTON 1100. There is a FIGHT SIDE FLAP 1101 and a LEFT SIDE FLAP 1102 that will be folded over the inner flap. An OUTER FLAP 1104 that will then cover over the carton as will be shown in FIG. 26. This carton has four CARTON WALLS 1105 that surround the interior of the carton. An ITEM 1300, in this case shown as a bottle, is intended to be inserted into the pouch in a manner that will be described in FIG. 4. The drawing in this variation shows a pair of pouches. An number of pouches can be demonstrated, and in any number of orientations and sizes. Also, the pouch could be threaded through other portions of the carton.

FIG. 24 focuses on the parts of the CARTON 1100. In this case, the carton is a cuboid in shape. This disclosure could also pertain to cartons that are a cylinder, prism, or some three-dimensional irregular shape. The carton can be constructed of corrugated paper, wood, metal, or plastic. The carton here shows the INNER FLAP 1103. OUTER FLAP 1104, RIGHT SIDE FLAP 1101, and LEFT SIDE FLAP 1102 open and exposing the interior of the carton. A pair of INNER FLAP HOLES 1108 are cut into the inner flap. The carton is surrounded by four CARTON WALLS 1105. There is a CARTON BASE 1106 that will be detailed in FIG. 25.

FIG. 25 shows the parts of a typical CARTON BASE 1106 and one version of how the POUCH 1200 can be connected to it. This example shows a carton base that is composed of a CARTON BASE FIRST HALF 1109 and a CARTON BASE SECOND HALF 1110 connected together to form a CARTON EXTENSION 1107 into which are cut two CARTON BASE HOLES 1111. Two versions of the pouch are shown. It will be shown later how an item can be inserted into the pouch. But for now, assume that the pouches are empty. The pouch on the left shows a POUCH BODY 1201 constructed of a net material. There is an UPPER END 1202 on the top and an END FLAT 1204 in the bottom that is sandwiched between two sides of the carton extension.

The pouch on the right shows a POUCH BODY 1201 constructed of a net material. There is an UPPER END 1202 on the top and an END HOOK 1203 in the bottom that is hooked into the carton base hole. In both cases the pouches are connected to the carton base such that they cannot be easily dislodged.

Alternatively, the pouch could be made of plastic, a fabric material, or rubber. It is important that the pouch be able to expand and hold an item. Furthermore, the pouches could be connected to carton base via other means such as adhesive or tied by string or twine. In the latter case, the pouch could be a more rigid material. It is only important that what contains the item is connected to the carton base, and as will be shown below, the inner flap described in FIG. 24, such that the overall system allows for a measure of impact resistance by virtue of inherent flexibility of the combination of the pouch and connection methods.

FIGS. 26a-26c show how the top portion of the CARTON 1100 is connected to the POUCH 1200. FIG. 26a shows the CARTON 1100 where the top portion is open, exposing the interior. A pair of POUCHES 1200 are shown and attached to the CARTON BASE 1106 as described in FIG. 25. The pouch on the left is open and an ITEM 1300, in this case a glass bottle, is inserted into pouch on the right via a POUCH ENTRY 1205. It is assumed that the pouch on the left already contains a similar item. The carton is constructed as described in FIG. 24.

FIG. 26b shows the CARTON 1100 with the INNER FLAP 1103 closed over the top of the carton. The UPPER END 1202 portions of the POUCHES 1200 have been threaded through the INNER FLAP HOLES 1108. In this design, the lengths of the pouches are sufficient to attach to the carton outside.

FIG. 26c shows the CARTON 1100 completely closed with the OUTTER FLAP 1104 covering the other carton components. In this case, the POUCH 1200 extends out from the side where the outer flap meets the CARTON WALL 1105. The POUCH BODY 1201 is shown and attached to the carton wall via the UPPER END 1202. The upper end could have a coating of adhesive or glue that adheres to the carton wall. Alternatively, the upper end could be attached to the carton wall via mechanical means such as a slot through which the upper end is threaded.

FIGS. 26a-26c show one method by which the pouch can be connected to the upper portion of the box. It could be connected to the inner flap, outer flap, or the right or left side flaps by adhesive or hooks. What is important is that the pouch can be connected to components of the carton cover.

The embodiment of FIGS. 23-26c are illustrative, and variations are contemplated to be within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in various embodiments, the INNER FLAP HOLES 1108 may be located elsewhere, such as on a wall of the CARTON 1100, and can extend through such walls the same way as described in connection with FIGS. 23-26a. Such and other embodiments are contemplated to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

Certain aspects of the present disclosure may include some, all, or none of the above advantages and/or one or more other advantages readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the drawings, descriptions, and claims included herein. Moreover, while specific advantages have been enumerated above, the various aspects of the present disclosure may include all, some, or none of the enumerated advantages and/or other advantages not specifically enumerated above.

The aspects disclosed herein are examples of the disclosure and may be embodied in various forms. For instance, although certain aspects herein are described as separate aspects, each of the aspects herein may be combined with one or more of the other aspects herein. Specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present disclosure in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Like reference numerals may refer to similar or identical elements throughout the description of the figures.

The phrases “in an aspect,” “in aspects,” “in various aspects,” “in some aspects,” or “in other aspects” may each refer to one or more of the same or different example Aspects provided in the present disclosure. A phrase in the form “A or B” means “(A), (B), or (A and B).” A phrase in the form “at least one of A, B, or C” means “(A); (B); (C); (A and B); (A and C); (B and C); or (A, B, and C).”

It should be understood that the foregoing description is only illustrative of the present disclosure. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variances. The aspects described with reference to the attached drawing figures are presented only to demonstrate certain examples of the disclosure. Other elements, steps, methods, and techniques that are insubstantially different from those described above and/or in the appended claims are also intended to be within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A apparatus comprising:

a flexible extended holder configured to hold an object, the flexible extended holder comprising two opposing ends, wherein the flexible extended holder is capable of being taut;

a container comprising two opposing walls and at least one adjacent wall connecting the two opposing walls;

a first engagement device couplable to a first end of the two opposing ends of the flexible extended holder and configured to removably engage a first wall of the two opposing walls of the container; and

a second engagement device couplable to a second end of the two opposing ends of the flexible extended holder and configured to removably engage a second wall of the two opposing walls of the container,

wherein, in an assembled configuration, the first engagement device is coupled to the first end of the flexible extended holder and is engaged with the first wall of the container, the second engagement device is coupled to the second end of the flexible extended holder and is engaged with the second wall of the container, and the flexible extended holder tautly holds the object within the flexible extended holder.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first engagement device comprises a first clamp configured to removably couple to the first end of the flexible extended holder,

wherein the first wall of the container comprises an outer surface and a first slot, and

wherein, in the assembled position, the first clamp engages the outer surface of the first wall of the container, and the flexible extended holder extends through the first slot of the first wall.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the second engagement device comprises a second clamp configured to removably couple to the second end of the flexible extended holder,

wherein the second wall of the container comprises an outer surface and a second slot, and

wherein, in the assembled position, the second clamp engages the outer surface of the second wall of the container, and the flexible extended holder extends through the second slot of the second wall.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first clamp is removable from the first wall and the second clamp is removable from the second wall.

5. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the second engagement device comprises a tape having an end adhered to the second end of the flexible extended holder,

wherein the second wall of the container comprises an outer surface and a second slot, and

wherein, in the assembled position, the tape extends through the second slot of the second wall and contacts the outer surface of the second wall of the container.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising:

a second flexible extended holder configured to hold an object, wherein an end of the second flexible extended holder is adhered to another end of the tape,

wherein the second wall of the container comprises a further slot, and

wherein, the tape extends through the further slot of the second wall and contacts the outer surface of the second wall of the container.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising:

a second clamp removably coupled to another end of the second flexible extended holder,

wherein the first wall comprises a further slot, and

wherein the second clamp engages the outer surface of the first wall and a portion of the second flexible extended holder extends through the further slot of the first wall.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first engagement device comprises one of: a first clip or a first hook configured to removably couple to the first end of the flexible extended holder,

wherein the first wall of the container comprises an outer surface and a first slot, and

wherein, in the assembled position, the first clip or the first hook engages the outer surface of the first wall of the container, and the flexible extended holder extends through the first slot of the first wall.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the second engagement device comprises one of: a second clip or a second hook configured to removably couple to the second end of the flexible extended holder,

wherein the second wall of the container comprises an outer surface and a second slot, and

wherein, in the assembled position, the second clip or the second hook engages the outer surface of the second wall of the container, and the flexible extended holder extends through the second slot of the second wall.

10. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first engagement device further comprises a first tab connected to the first clamp by a first connector, and

wherein the second engagement device further comprises a second tab connected to the second clamp by a second connector.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the first wall of the container comprises an outer surface and a first slot,

wherein the second wall of the container comprises an outer surface and a second slot, and

wherein, in the assembled position, the first connector extends through the first slot of the first wall and the first tab engages the outer surface of the first wall of the container, and the second connector extends through the second slot of the second wall and the second tab engages the outer surface of the second wall of the container.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first tab is removable from the first wall and the second tab is removable from the second wall.

13. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a frame secured to a perimeter of the flexible extended holder, the frame comprising the first engagement device and the second engagement device.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the container comprises a second adjacent wall connecting the first wall and the second wall,

wherein, in the assembled position, the frame engages an intersection of the first wall and the adjacent wall and engages an intersection of the second wall and the second adjacent wall by friction.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a box,

wherein the container is configured to fit within the box.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the container is a carton insert configured to be inserted into the box.