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US20100282750A1 - Product packaging with a tear strip - Google Patents

Product packaging with a tear strip Download PDF

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Publication number
US20100282750A1
US20100282750A1 US12/161,651 US16165107A US2010282750A1 US 20100282750 A1 US20100282750 A1 US 20100282750A1 US 16165107 A US16165107 A US 16165107A US 2010282750 A1 US2010282750 A1 US 2010282750A1
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US
United States
Prior art keywords
sleeve
end cap
opening
locking
package
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US12/161,651
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English (en)
Inventor
Richard Mazurek
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
HIP LIK PACKAGING PRODUCTS FTY Ltd
Original Assignee
Atlas AGI Holdings LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority to US12/161,651 priority Critical patent/US20100282750A1/en
Application filed by Atlas AGI Holdings LLC filed Critical Atlas AGI Holdings LLC
Assigned to MEADWESTVACO CORPORATION reassignment MEADWESTVACO CORPORATION ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: MAZUREK, RICHARD
Assigned to ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS, LLC reassignment ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS, LLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: MEADWESTVACO CORPORATION
Publication of US20100282750A1 publication Critical patent/US20100282750A1/en
Assigned to RBS BUSINESS CAPITAL, A DIVISION OF RBS ASSET FINANCE, INC. reassignment RBS BUSINESS CAPITAL, A DIVISION OF RBS ASSET FINANCE, INC. SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC
Assigned to RBS INVOICE FINANCE LIMITED reassignment RBS INVOICE FINANCE LIMITED SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC
Assigned to ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC reassignment ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC RELEASE OF SECURITY INTEREST IN PATENTS Assignors: RBS BUSINESS CAPITAL
Assigned to ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC reassignment ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: RBS INVOICE FINANCE LIMITED, AS SECURITY AGENT
Assigned to WELLS FARGO CAPITAL FINANCE, LLC, AS AGENT reassignment WELLS FARGO CAPITAL FINANCE, LLC, AS AGENT SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC, SHOREWOOD PACKAGING LLC
Assigned to ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC, SHOREWOOD PACKAGING LLC reassignment ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: WELLS FARGO CAPITAL FINANCE, LLC, AS AGENT
Assigned to ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC reassignment ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: WELLS FARGO CAPITAL FINANCE, LLC
Assigned to HIP LIK PACKAGING PRODUCTS FTY. LTD. reassignment HIP LIK PACKAGING PRODUCTS FTY. LTD. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC
Assigned to HIP LIK PACKAGING PRODUCTS FTY. LTD reassignment HIP LIK PACKAGING PRODUCTS FTY. LTD PURCHASE AGREEMENT Assignors: ATLAS HOLDINGS LLC
Assigned to HIP LIK PACKAGING PRODUCTS FTY. LTD reassignment HIP LIK PACKAGING PRODUCTS FTY. LTD PURCHASE AGREEMENT CORRECTION Assignors: ATLAS AGI HOLDINGS LLC
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D15/00—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, sections made of different materials
    • B65D15/02—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, sections made of different materials of curved, or partially curved, cross-section, e.g. cans, drums
    • B65D15/04—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, sections made of different materials of curved, or partially curved, cross-section, e.g. cans, drums with curved, or partially curved, walls made by winding or bending paper
    • B65D15/08—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, sections made of different materials of curved, or partially curved, cross-section, e.g. cans, drums with curved, or partially curved, walls made by winding or bending paper with end walls made of plastics material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D59/00—Plugs, sleeves, caps, or like rigid or semi-rigid elements for protecting parts of articles or for bundling articles, e.g. protectors for screw-threads, end caps for tubes or for bundling rod-shaped articles
    • B65D59/02—Plugs
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2301/00—Details of blanks
    • B65D2301/20—Details of blanks made of plastic material

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to the field of product packaging, and in particular to product packages that have a locking end cap that is released by partial destruction of the package using a tear strip.
  • Product packaging serves a number of different functions, including: protecting the packaged product from accidental damage, attractively displaying the packaged product and preventing theft or tampering. In addition, it is desirable for a package to be as inexpensive to manufacture as possible. Assignee's co-pending application, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/164,477 (filed on Jun. 6, 2002), the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference, discloses one such improved design.
  • a product package which includes a sleeve and at least one rigid end cap.
  • the sleeve has longitudinally opposed first and second ends, the first end of the sleeve defining an opening and having at least two locking tabs extending therefrom.
  • the first end of the sleeve also includes a tear strip positioned adjacent to the opening which has been formed using known techniques, such as, microperforation.
  • Each locking tab includes a locking edge and is folded inwards into the opening.
  • a rigid end cap is dimensioned to fit closely within the sleeve opening, the end cap including a rim that, when the end cap is inserted into the opening, engages the first end of the sleeve and prevents the end cap from being inserted further into the opening.
  • the end cap also includes at least one channel for receiving the pair of locking tabs, the at least one channel having a ledge that engages the locking edge of each locking tab to prevent the end cap from being removed from the sleeve opening.
  • the tear strip formed in the sleeve is adapted and configured such that pulling the tear strip allows the rigid end cap to be removed from the sleeve opening.
  • the tear strip can also include a finger tab that is accessible to a user.
  • the end cap can include a cavity shaped to receive an end of a product to be packaged. It is also contemplated that the end cap can include a plurality of cavities shaped to receive a product to be packaged.
  • the locking tabs of the first end of the sleeve can be dimensioned and configured to releasably engage an exterior surface of the peripheral wall of the first end cap. It is also contemplated that the locking tabs of the first end of the sleeve can be adapted and configured for folding into the sleeve to releasably engage the peripheral wall of the first end cap.
  • the sleeve and locking tabs can have a strength and resilience that combines with the dimensioning and angling of the ledges to produce a firm locking action when the locking tabs are engaged by the ledges.
  • Each of the locking tabs and the channels can be shaped such that the end cap is twistable to a position in which the locking tabs are clear of the ledges, thereby releasing the end cap from the sleeve.
  • Each of the locking tabs can be trapezoidal and have an acute vertex that rides up a side edge of the channel when the end cap is twisted relative to the sleeve, such that the end cap is released from the sleeve.
  • the channel can have at least one ramped side edge, such that when the end cap is twisted relative to the sleeve, the locking tab rides up the ramped side edge, such that the end cap is released from the sleeve.
  • the channels and locking tabs can be shaped such that the end cap is prevented from twisting and releasing the end cap from the sleeve.
  • the locking tabs and channels can be rectangular to prevent the locking tabs from riding up a side edge of the channel when the end cap is urged to twist relative to the sleeve, such that the end cap is prevented from being twisted and released from the sleeve.
  • the sleeve can include a second end defining a second opening
  • the package can further include a second locking tab and a second end cap.
  • the second locking tab can extend from the second end and can be folded inward into the second opening, the second locking tab having a locking edge.
  • the second end cap can have a substantially continuous outer surface dimensioned to fit closely within the second opening.
  • the second end cap can further include a rim overhanging the outer surface such that, when the second end cap is inserted into the second opening, the rim engages the second sleeve end and prevents the second end cap from being inserted further into the second opening.
  • the second end cap can further include a channel for receiving the second locking tab, the channel having a ledge that engages the locking edge of the second locking tab to prevent the second end cap from being removed from the second sleeve opening. It is also contemplated that the first and second end caps can each include a cavity shaped to receive an opposite end of a product to be packaged.
  • the sleeve can be defined by opposed first and second curved panels.
  • the first and second curved panels can be connected to one another along lateral edges of the sleeve.
  • the first and second curved panels can be integrally joined to one another along a first lateral edge of the sleeve.
  • the first and second curved panels can also be affixed to one another along a second lateral edge of the sleeve.
  • the invention also includes a package having a sleeve, a first rigid end cap, and a second rigid end cap.
  • the sleeve has longitudinally opposed first and second ends, the first and second ends of the sleeve each defining an opening and having at least two locking tabs extending therefrom.
  • the first end of the sleeve further includes a tear strip positioned adjacent to the opening.
  • Each locking tab includes a locking edge and can be folded inwards into the opening.
  • the first rigid end cap is dimensioned to fit closely within the sleeve opening.
  • the first end cap includes a rim that, when the first end cap is inserted into the first sleeve opening, engages the first end of the sleeve and prevents the first end cap from being inserted further into the first sleeve opening.
  • the first end cap further includes at least one channel for receiving the pair of locking tabs in the first end of the sleeve, the at least one channel having a ledge that engages the locking edge of each locking tab to prevent the end first cap from being removed from the first sleeve opening.
  • the second rigid end cap is dimensioned to fit closely within the second sleeve opening and can including a rim that, when the second end cap is inserted into the second sleeve opening, engages the second end of the sleeve and prevents the second end cap from being inserted further into the second sleeve opening.
  • the second end cap also includes at least one channel for receiving the pair of locking tabs in the second end of the sleeve, the at least one channel having a ledge that engages the locking edge of each locking tab of the second end cap to prevent the second end cap from being removed from the second sleeve opening.
  • the tear strip is adapted and configured such that pulling the tear strip allows the rigid end cap to be removed from the sleeve opening.
  • each of the locking tabs of the first end of the sleeve and the channels of the first end cap can be shaped such that the first end cap is twistable to a position in which the locking tabs are clear of the ledges, thereby releasing the first end cap from the sleeve.
  • the invention also includes a method for fabricating a package.
  • the method includes the steps of cutting and scoring a sleeve blank to create first and second panels, a glue flap extending from the first panel, locking tabs extending from each of the panels, and a tear strip proximate to one of the locking tabs.
  • the method further includes folding the second panel over the first panel, folding the glue flap and affixing it to the second panel so the first and second panels form a sleeve, folding the locking tabs inward into the sleeve, and inserting a rigid end cap into a first end of the sleeve, the end cap including at least one channel having a ledge that engages a locking edge of each locking tab extending from the first end of the sleeve.
  • the method also includes steps of loading a product into the sleeve and inserting a second rigid end cap into a second end of the sleeve, the second end cap including at least one channel having a ledge that engages a locking edge of each locking tab extending from a second end of the sleeve.
  • FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a product package constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 show front and rear views of the package shown in FIG. 1 ;
  • FIGS. 4 and 5 show left and right side views of the package shown in FIG. 1 ;
  • FIGS. 6 and 7 show top and bottom views of the package shown in FIG. 1 ;
  • FIGS. 5 and 9 show, respectively, elevational views of an upper and lower end cap according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10 shows a plan view of a blank for fabricating a sleeve according to an aspect of the invention
  • FIG. 11 shows a plan view of the blank shown in FIG. 10 , partially fabricated into a sleeve
  • FIG. 12A shows a plan view of the blank shown in FIG. 10 , fully assembled into a sleeve
  • FIG. 12B shows a side view of the blank shown in FIG. 12A ;
  • FIGS. 13A-D show a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of a locking mechanism according to an aspect of the invention
  • FIG. 14 shows a cutaway view of a sleeve and end cap illustrating the operation of a locking mechanism according to an aspect of the invention
  • FIG. 15 shows a cutaway view of a sleeve and upper and lower end caps illustrating the operation of a locking mechanism according to an aspect of the invention
  • FIGS. 16A-D and 17 A-D are a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of a release mechanism according to an aspect of the invention.
  • FIGS. 18A and 18B are diagrams illustrating the operation of the release mechanism illustrated in FIGS. 16A-D and 17 A-D;
  • FIGS. 19A-D and 20 A-D are a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of a release mechanism according to a further aspect of the invention.
  • FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of a package according to another aspect of the invention.
  • FIGS. 22 and 23 show front and rear views of the package shown in FIG. 21 ;
  • FIGS. 24 and 25 show left and rear side views of the package shown in
  • FIG. 21
  • FIGS. 26 and 27 show top and bottom views of the package shown in FIG. 21 ;
  • FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of a package according to another aspect of the invention.
  • FIGS. 29 and 30 show front and rear views of the package shown in FIG. 28 ;
  • FIGS. 31 and 32 show left and right side views of the package shown in FIG. 28 ;
  • FIG. 33 shows a top view of the package shown in FIG. 28 .
  • the presently disclosed embodiments are directed towards product packaging that includes, inter alia, a sleeve that has at least one end that is closed by inserting an end cap.
  • the sleeve comprises a tear strip which allows a user to disengage the end cap from the sleeve.
  • the tear strip is in communication with a tab wherein the tab is accessible to a user. Once the tear strip has been removed, a user may remove the end cap.
  • the sleeve may be closed with two non-releasable locking caps, two releasable locking caps, or one non-releasable locking cap and one releasable locking cap.
  • the sleeve may comprise a single tear strip located at a first opening or a first tear strip at a first opening and a second tear strip at a second opening.
  • the use of at least one tear strip may be desirable for a number of reasons.
  • use of a tear strip allows for increased theft prevention.
  • Use of the tear strip requires damage to the sleeve which is easier to detect by store personnel as opposed to the use of a twist off end cap.
  • a customer may find a twist off end cap to be cumbersome if the product is too large As such, removal of the tear strip provides a helpful alternative to a twist off releasable cap.
  • FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the presently disclosed product package 10 .
  • the package 10 includes a sleeve 12 having an upper opening at an upper end and a lower opening at a lower end.
  • the sleeve comprises a tear strip 52 engaged to a tab 50 .
  • the tear strip 52 is a perforated section of the sleeve which facilitates tearing of the sleeve along the perforated section.
  • the tear strip 52 is located in a position such that tearing along the perforation will allow for the release of the end cap. The mechanics of the end cap 14 will be discussed in detail below.
  • the tab 50 is accessible to a user so that the user may grab the tab 50 and exert a tearing force along the tear strip 52 . Once the user has torn the tear strip 52 along substantially a desired length of the tear strip, the end cap 14 may be easily removed by a user.
  • any shape tab is within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
  • the sleeve 12 may suitably be fabricated from a sheet of see-through plastic material, such as PVC, APET, PETG, polylith, PLA or the like.
  • the thickness of the sheet is selected based on a number of factors, including price and strength.
  • the sheet should be thick enough to provide structural support, but thin enough to allow the sheet to be flexed and folded, as described herein.
  • the sleeve 12 comprises a pair of locking tabs 18 adjacent to the upper opening.
  • the locking tabs 18 are secured in a channel 22 of the end cap 14 .
  • the end cap 14 may be a releasable locking mechanism or a non-releasable locking mechanism (will be discussed below). If a releasable locking mechanism, the end cap 14 may be released by applying a twisting motion to the end cap 14 .
  • Presently disclosed embodiments are directed towards the use of the tear strip 52 with either a releasable end cap or an unreleasable end cap. Tearing the tear strip 52 along the perforated edge allows for the user to remove an end cap 14 (either releasable or non-releasable) because once the tear strip has been ripped the user may easily disengage the locking tabs 18 from the channel 22 of the end cap 14 .
  • the tear strip 52 may be used in conjunction with a releasable end cap if the container 10 is too cumbersome to apply a twisting motion.
  • the sleeve 12 includes an upper pair of locking tabs 18 that are folded inwards into the interior of the sleeve 12 for securing the upper end cap 14 , and a lower pair of locking tabs 20 that are folded inwards into the interior of the sleeve 12 for securing the lower end cap 16 .
  • the upper end cap 14 includes a pair of channels 22 corresponding in position to the pair of upper locking tabs 18 .
  • the lower end cap 16 includes a single continuous channel 24 encircling the perimeter of the lower end cap 16 .
  • FIG. 1 shows an embodiment wherein the upper end cap 14 is secured with a releasable locking mechanism in association with a tear strip 52 and the lower end cap 16 is secured with a non-releasable locking mechanism.
  • the upper end cap 14 may be released by twisting the upper end cap 14 within the sleeve 12 . If a user finds the container too cumbersome too twist, the user may tear the tear strip 52 along the perforated edge in order to disengage the locking tabs 18 from the channel 22 and remove the end cap.
  • the upper end cap is a non-releasable end cap and the user must tear the tear strip along the perforated edge to remove the end cap.
  • the lower end cap 16 is not releasable, and cannot be removed without causing damage to the package 10 .
  • the lower end cap may also be associated with an additional tear strip.
  • top and bottom end caps 14 and 16 are provided with molded cavities 26 and 28 that are shaped to receive an item to be held in the package 10 . It will be appreciated that cavities 26 and 28 may be freely modified to accommodate differently shaped items.
  • FIGS. 2 through 7 show additional views of the package 10 shown in FIG. 1 .
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 show, respectively, front and rear views of the package.
  • FIGS. 4 and 5 show left and right side views of the package 10 .
  • FIGS. 6 and 7 show top and bottom views of the package 10 .
  • FIGS. 8 and 9 show elevation views of the upper and lower end caps 14 and 16 .
  • Each end cap 14 and 16 is a rigid body that may suitably be fabricated, for example, using an injection molding technique. Suitable materials for the end caps include PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene.
  • the upper end cap 14 shown in FIG. 8 provides a releasable locking mechanism for securing the end cap 14 to the sleeve.
  • the releasable locking mechanism includes a pair of rectangular channels 22 on opposite sides of the end cap 14 .
  • the pair of channels 22 is positioned to receive a corresponding pair of locking tabs 18 extending from the sleeve 12 .
  • the upper side of each channel 22 is defined by a rim 30 that is dimensioned to be slightly larger than the upper opening of the sleeve 12 , and to engage the upper sleeve end to prevent the end cap 14 from being inserted too far into the sleeve opening.
  • the lower side of each channel 22 is defined by a ledge 34 , which provides a surface for engaging a locking edge of each upper locking tab 18 .
  • the lower end cap 16 shown in FIG. 9 provides a non-releasable locking mechanism for securing the lower end cap 16 in the lower opening of the sleeve 12 .
  • the non-releasable locking mechanism includes a single channel 24 encircling the end cap 16 .
  • the lower side of the channel 24 is defined by a rim 32 that is dimensioned to be larger than the bottom sleeve opening.
  • the upper side of the channel 24 is defined by a ledge 36 that provides a surface for engaging a locked edge of each lower locking tab 20 extending from the sleeve 12 .
  • FIG. 10 shows a plan view of a blank 100 for forming a sleeve according to an aspect of the invention.
  • the blank 100 is die cut from a sheet of suitable material, such as PVC, APET, or PETG. If desired, textual or graphic matter may be printed directly onto the blank using a high-speed printing process.
  • a series of score lines 102 is fabricated into the blank 100 to divide the blank into a number of panels and tabs.
  • the blank 100 includes a first panel 104 and a second panel 106 that are folded towards each other to form the body of the finished sleeve.
  • a glue flap 108 extends upward from the first panel 104 , opposite the second panel 106 , and is used to attach the outside edges of the first and second panels 104 and 106 to each other. As shown, the tear strip 52 and tab 50 are manufactured on the first panel 104 .
  • a releasable locking tab 110 and 112 Extending from the right side of each of the first and second panels 104 and 106 is a releasable locking tab 110 and 112 .
  • the releasable locking tabs 110 and 112 are trapezoidal in shape. As discussed below, other shapes may be used for the releasable locking tabs 110 and 112 .
  • Non-releasable locking tabs 114 and 116 extend from the left side of the first and second panels 104 and 106 .
  • the non-releasable locking tabs 114 and 116 are rectangular in shape.
  • Each of the locking tabs 110 includes a respective locking edge 120 , 122 , 124 and 126 that, as described below, engages a ledge in an end cap, such as ledge 156 in end cap 150 illustrated in FIGS. 13A-D and described below, to lock the end caps in position in the sleeve ends.
  • locking tabs 112 and 116 will line up with locking tabs 110 and 114 .
  • other orientations for the locking tabs 110 , 112 , 114 and 116 may also be used without departing from the spirit of the invention.
  • the second panel 106 is folded over the first panel 104 .
  • the partially folded blank 100 is shown in FIG. 11 .
  • the glue flap 108 is then folded over the second panel 106 , and a suitable technique is employed to cause the glue flap 108 to adhere to the second panel 106 at the cross-hatched regions 128 and 130 . It will be seen that the bonding of the glue flap 108 to the second panel 106 creates a tube with openings at the left and right of the blank 100 .
  • FIG. 12A shows a plan view of the finished sleeve 100
  • FIG. 12B shows a right side view of the sleeve 100 .
  • the sleeve 100 may be readily popped opened for insertion of the end caps by applying gentle pressure to the sleeve in the direction of the arrows 132 shown in FIG. 12B .
  • the sleeve 100 it would be possible for a worker to hold the sleeve 100 in one hand, using the thumb and fingers to apply pressure to the side edges of the sleeve 100 . The worker could then pop the sleeve 100 open, and use the other hand to install an end cap into one of the two sleeve openings. Once the first end cap has been installed, the package is relatively stable, and can be stood on end, with the installed end cap acting as a base. Product can then be loaded through the other opening. If necessary, further pressure can be applied to the side edges of the sleeve to open the other opening for loading of the product and installation of the second end cap.
  • the above described manual operations may also be performed by machine.
  • releasable end caps at both openings of the sleeve, or non-releasable end caps at both openings.
  • releasable cap as the top cap or the bottom cap, as desired.
  • FIGS. 13A-D are cross section diagrams of an exemplary end cap 150 and sleeve end 170 illustrating the operation of a locking mechanism according to an aspect of the invention.
  • the drawing of sleeve end 170 includes a broken line 172 , which represents the perimeter of the sleeve opening.
  • the sleeve end 170 includes a pair of locking tabs 174 .
  • the locking tabs 174 extend upward from the sleeve 176 .
  • the locking tabs 174 Prior to the installation of the end cap 150 , the locking tabs 174 are folded into the sleeve opening, towards the inner surface of the sleeve 176 .
  • the locking tabs 174 have a tendency to unfold slightly. The slight unfolding of the locking tabs 174 has been exaggerated in FIGS. 13A-D for purposes of illustration. The unfolding of the locking tabs 174 is useful in ensuring a firm locking action.
  • the locking cap 150 includes a channel 152 at each side corresponding in position to the locking tabs 174 .
  • the channels 152 are not drawn to scale.
  • a single channel encircles the perimeter of the end cap.
  • separate channels are provided, corresponding in position to each of the locking tabs 174 .
  • the initial locking action is substantially similar.
  • the upper boundary of the channel 152 is defined by a rim 154 that, when the end cap 150 is seated in the sleeve end 170 , overhangs the sleeve end 170 to prevent the end cap 150 from being further inserted into the sleeve end.
  • the channel 152 further includes a ledge 156 that engages a locking edge of each of the locking tabs 174 .
  • the channel 152 is shown as having a rectangular profile, other channel profiles may also be used. For example, it may be desirable for the ledge to define a more acute angle, or for the channel to be deeper.
  • the ledge face 158 is dimensioned and shaped to fit closely within the sleeve.
  • FIG. 13B shows the end cap 150 that has been partially inserted into the sleeve end 170 .
  • the bottom circumference of the end cap 150 urges the locking tabs 174 downward, towards the inner walls of the sleeve 176 .
  • FIG. 13C shows the end cap 150 as the end cap 150 continues to be advanced downward, the locking tabs 174 are pressed against the inner walls of the sleeve 176 .
  • FIG. 13D when the end cap 150 reaches its final position, the locking tabs 174 , because of their resiliency, tend to unfold slightly, causing the locking tabs 174 to open up into the channel 152 .
  • the slight unfolding of the locking tabs 174 causes the locking edges of the locking tabs 174 to engage the ledge surface 156 , thereby preventing the end cap from being pulled upward out of the sleeve opening.
  • the end caps have a convexly curved outer perimeter
  • the insertion of the end cap into the sleeve causes corresponding curves to form in the sleeve 176 and locking tabs 174 . This curvature tends to increase the strength of the locking tabs 174 .
  • FIGS. 14 and 15 show cutaway views of a package 200 according to an aspect of the invention.
  • FIG. 14 shows a close-up view of a portion of the package 200 illustrating a single locking tab 202 seated in a channel 204 .
  • FIG. 15 shows a cutaway of the whole package 200 illustrating a pair of lower locking tabs 202 and a pair of upper locking tabs 206 .
  • FIGS. 16A-D and 17 A-D illustrate the operation of a release mechanism 250 according to an aspect of the invention.
  • FIG. 16A shows a diagram of a releasable locking tab 252 seated within a rectangular channel 254 in a finished package.
  • an upper end cap is shown.
  • the upper edge of the channel 254 is defined by the end cap rim
  • the lower edge of the channel is defined by a ledge.
  • the left and right edges of the channel are defined by surfaces 256 that are substantially continuous with the ledge face.
  • the releasable locking tab 252 has a trapezoidal shape.
  • an acute vertex 260 is presented to the side edge 258 .
  • the acute vertex 260 allows the locking tab 252 to ride up the side edge 258 of the channel 254 and onto surface 256 , starting with the point of the vertex 260 .
  • the movement of the locking tab 252 onto surface 256 can be seen in FIGS. 17A-D .
  • each locking tab 252 is seated in a channel 254 .
  • the locking tabs 252 are no longer in the channels 254 .
  • the end cap can now be removed.
  • the twist angle required to disengage the end cap 262 from the sleeve 264 can be adjusted by adjusting the dimensions of the channels 254 , the locking tabs 252 , or both.
  • the one-way release mechanism could be accomplished, for example, by using a locking tab having a first side with an acute vertex, and a second side with square vertices. It would be difficult, if not impossible, to twist the end cap off in the direction of the square vertices.
  • FIGS. 19A-D and FIG. 20A-D illustrate an alternative release mechanism.
  • a rectangular locking tab 272 may be used.
  • one side of the channel 274 is provided with a ramp 276 leading up to surface 278 .
  • the locking tab 272 rides up the ramp 276 and onto surface 278 to disengage the locking mechanism.
  • only one ramp 276 is provided.
  • the locking mechanism can only be released by twisting the end cap in the direction of the ramp 276 .
  • a second ramp can be added to the other side of the channel 274 to allow the locking mechanism to be released by twisting the end cap in either direction.
  • FIGS. 21 through 27 show a product package 300 according to another aspect of the invention.
  • a releasable end cap 302 is provided at the bottom end of sleeve 304
  • a non-releasable cap 306 is provided at the top of the sleeve.
  • the end caps 302 and 306 have been shaped to receive a different product, such as a bottle containing lotion or fragrance.
  • FIGS. 22 and 23 show front and rear views of the package 300 .
  • FIGS. 24 and 25 show left and right side views.
  • FIGS. 26 and 27 show top and bottom views of the package 300 .
  • FIGS. 28 through 33 show another package 350 according to an aspect of the invention.
  • FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of the package 350 .
  • the channels 352 in the end caps 354 are not rectangular, but instead are angled.
  • FIGS. 29 and 30 show front and rear views of the package.
  • FIGS. 31 and 32 show left and right side views, and
  • FIG. 20 shows a top view.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
US12/161,651 2006-01-20 2007-01-22 Product packaging with a tear strip Abandoned US20100282750A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US12/161,651 US20100282750A1 (en) 2006-01-20 2007-01-22 Product packaging with a tear strip

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US76072106P 2006-01-20 2006-01-20
PCT/US2007/001664 WO2007084772A2 (en) 2006-01-20 2007-01-22 Product packaging with tear strip
US12/161,651 US20100282750A1 (en) 2006-01-20 2007-01-22 Product packaging with a tear strip

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20100282750A1 true US20100282750A1 (en) 2010-11-11

Family

ID=38288319

Family Applications (1)

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US12/161,651 Abandoned US20100282750A1 (en) 2006-01-20 2007-01-22 Product packaging with a tear strip

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US20100282750A1 (pl)
EP (1) EP1981367B1 (pl)
CN (1) CN101472497B (pl)
CA (1) CA2657814A1 (pl)
PL (1) PL1981367T3 (pl)
WO (1) WO2007084772A2 (pl)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
USD696579S1 (en) 2012-04-10 2013-12-31 L. Perrigo Company Product container
USD696580S1 (en) 2012-04-10 2013-12-31 L. Perrigo Company Product container
USD704049S1 (en) 2012-04-10 2014-05-06 L. Perrigo Company Product container
US9776764B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2017-10-03 Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A. Packaging container, and blank usable in the production of such a packaging container

Families Citing this family (1)

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EP3074318B1 (en) * 2013-11-26 2018-04-18 The Procter and Gamble Company Packages for tooth treatment products

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US2442979A (en) * 1947-01-23 1948-06-08 Stein A & Co Belt package
US2974825A (en) * 1959-02-24 1961-03-14 J E Plastics Mfg Corp Container
US2975888A (en) * 1959-03-26 1961-03-21 Sr Harold G Paynton Archery package
US4024976A (en) * 1975-10-30 1977-05-24 Anchor Hocking Corporation Tamperproof molded package
US4051992A (en) * 1976-04-30 1977-10-04 Bergstein Packaging Trust Cylindrical display container formed from a flat blank
US5160687A (en) * 1988-04-01 1992-11-03 Alplast Spa Screw cap of thermoplastics material
US4802577A (en) * 1988-07-01 1989-02-07 Leary Dennis E O Display container for a plurality of belts
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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9776764B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2017-10-03 Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A. Packaging container, and blank usable in the production of such a packaging container
USD696579S1 (en) 2012-04-10 2013-12-31 L. Perrigo Company Product container
USD696580S1 (en) 2012-04-10 2013-12-31 L. Perrigo Company Product container
USD704049S1 (en) 2012-04-10 2014-05-06 L. Perrigo Company Product container

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1981367A2 (en) 2008-10-22
WO2007084772A2 (en) 2007-07-26
CN101472497B (zh) 2012-06-27
CA2657814A1 (en) 2007-07-26
WO2007084772A3 (en) 2008-12-18
CN101472497A (zh) 2009-07-01
EP1981367B1 (en) 2012-08-01
EP1981367A4 (en) 2009-12-23
PL1981367T3 (pl) 2013-06-28

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