US20250320041A1

US20250320041A1 - Systems and Methods for Packaging

Info

Publication number: US20250320041A1
Application number: US19/175,713
Authority: US
Inventors: Timothy Charles DZURIK
Original assignee: Plastek Industries Inc
Current assignee: Plastek Industries Inc
Priority date: 2024-04-11
Filing date: 2025-04-10
Publication date: 2025-10-16
Also published as: WO2025217429A1

Abstract

Systems and methods for providing tamper evident packaging are disclosed. The systems and methods include, for example, one or more structures that provide or generate a visual indicator of package tampering. In some implementations, the systems and methods described herein relate to a package system, the system including, for example, top/lid and base portions connected together by a tamper evident assembly. In some implementations, the systems and methods described herein also relate to a packaging system including, for example, nozzle and base portions that are snap or interference fit together.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/632,664, filed Apr. 11, 2024, and titled “Systems and Methods for Packaging,” which is hereby fully incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Packaging plays an important role in many industries. This includes, for example, industries related to consumer, industrial and medical goods. Packaging generally protects the goods so they can be safely transported from manufacturers to retailers and/or consumers.
In some cases, the packaging must facilitate distribution and storage in a manner that also preserves freshness, flavor, and nutritional value. The packaging protects against spoilage, contamination, and exposure to external factors such as, for example, light, air, and moisture. And, in certain cases, the packaging can include tamper evident indicator(s) that provide or generate a visual indication as to whether the packaging has been tampered with (e.g., opened).
What is desired are improvements in packaging technology including, for example, packaging technology having visual tamper indicators.

SUMMARY

This summary presents a simplified overview to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the systems and/or methods discussed herein. This summary is not an extensive overview of the systems and/or methods discussed herein. This summary is meant to provide some examples and is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosed subject matter in any way. For example, any feature included in an example of this summary is not required by the claims, unless the claims explicitly recite the feature. Also, the features, components, steps, concepts, etc. described in examples in this summary and elsewhere in this disclosure can be combined in a variety of ways. Various features and steps as described elsewhere in this disclosure can be included in the examples summarized here. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of such systems and/or methods. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
Systems and methods for providing tamper evident packaging are provided. The systems and methods include, for example, one or more structures that provide or generate a visual indicator of package tampering. In some implementations, the systems and methods described herein relate to a packaging system, the system including, for example, top/lid and base portions connected together. The top/lid portion being connected to the base portion by a tamper evident assembly.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system including: a lid and a base portion; and a tamper evident assembly including first, second and third portions, the first portion including a plurality of breakable structures connected to the lid portion; the second portion including a projecting bearing surface; the third portion including a hook portion; and wherein the tamper evident assembly includes a first state including the plurality of breakable structures being unbroken and a second state including the plurality of breakable structures being broken.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the hook portion includes a cam surface.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein base portion includes an opening for receiving the hook portion.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the tamper evident assembly is disposed in a recessed space of the lid portion.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the first, second and third portions are disposed on a body of the tamper evident assembly.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the tamper evident assembly is retained by the base portion after the plurality of breakable structures are broken.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system further including a nozzle portion connected to the base portion.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the second portion is disposed between the first and third portions.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the projecting bearing surface bears against a support surface of the base portion.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the tamper evident assembly includes an arcuate body.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system including: a base portion and a nozzle portion; the base portion including: an opening for receiving the nozzle portion and first and second nozzle mounting portions, the first nozzle mounting portion including a first wall that is received with a recess of the nozzle portion to orient the nozzle portion for insertion into the base portion; and the second nozzle mounting portion including a second wall that is received within a neck portion of the nozzle portion; and wherein the first nozzle portion and second nozzle portion include a snap fit connection that maintains the base portion and nozzle portion connected together.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the first wall includes an arcuate shape.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the recess of the nozzle portion includes an arcuate shape.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the nozzle portion includes a locking bead portion that bears against the second wall.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the nozzle portion further includes a dispensing portion and wherein the neck portion is at least partially recessed from the dispensing portion.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the opening of the base portion includes a first size and a second larger size during insertion of the nozzle portion.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein second nozzle mounting portion includes first orientation and second orientation that is a flexed orientation during insertion of the nozzle portion.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the nozzle portion includes a tapered surface that bears against the second nozzle mounting portion during insertion.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the first wall limits the insertion distance of the nozzle portion into the base portion.
In some aspects, the implementations described herein relate to a packaging system wherein the first wall limits rotation of the nozzle portion with respect to the base portion during insertion. Other implementations and examples are described throughout the disclosure and thus this summary is not intended to be limit the disclosure in any way.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

To further explain various aspects of examples in the present disclosure, a more particular description of certain examples and implementations will be made by reference to various aspects of the appended drawings. These drawings depict only example implementations of the present disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, while the figures can be drawn to scale for some examples, the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale for all examples. In the views shown, the scale and relative scale are intended as representative examples. Examples and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one implementation of a packaging system in the closed or visual untampered state.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the packaging system in the open or visual tampered state.

FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C show top, side and bottom views, respectively, of one implementation of a packaging system prior to initial assembly or closure.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C show side, top, and bottom views, respectively, of one implementation of a nozzle portion.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of one implementation of a base portion taken along section lines shown in FIG. 3C.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of one implementation of a nozzle portion taken along section lines shown in FIG. 4C.

FIGS. 7 and 8A, 8B, and 8C illustrate front, top, side, and bottom views, respectively, of the implementation of FIGS. 1-2 in the closed or visual untampered state.

FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional view taken through the section line shown in FIG. 8C.

FIG. 8E is a cross-sectional view taken along the second section line shown in FIG. 8C.

FIG. 8F is a perspective cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. 8E.

FIG. 9 is a magnified view of the section indicated in FIG. 8D.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, and 13 illustrate top, side, bottom and front views, respectively, of the implementation of FIGS. 1-2 in the open or visual tampered state.

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate cross-section and magnified views taken along the section line shown in FIG. 10C.

FIGS. 14, 15, and 16 are perspective, side and front views, respectively, of one implementation of an ornamental design for a packaging system.

DESCRIPTION

The following description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate example implementations of the present disclosure. Other implementations having different structures and operations do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure.
Various technologies pertaining to packaging systems and methods are now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of one or more aspects. It may be evident, however, that such aspect(s) may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a non-limiting description of one or more aspects of the disclosure. Further, it is to be understood that functionality that is described as being carried out by certain system or assembly components may be performed by multiple components. Similarly, for instance, a component may be configured to perform functionality that is described as being carried out by multiple components. Further, when two components are described as being connected, coupled, joined, affixed, in physical communication, etc., it is to be understood that one or more intervening components or parts can be included in such association.
Moreover, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from the context, the phrase “X employs A or B” (or other similar phrases) is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, the phrase “X employs A or B” is satisfied by any of the following instances: X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from the context to be directed to a singular form.
The terms “top” and “bottom,” or “upper” and “lower,” are used herein for identification purposes. Similarly, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. are used herein for identification purposes. It is contemplated that components disclosed herein can be oriented in substantially any manner or order consistent with the disclosure. For instance, a top surface need not be above a bottom surface, unless specifically identified in that spatial relationship by the disclosure. Similarly, a “first” component need not come before a “second” or “third” component. Further, as used herein, the term “exemplary” is intended to mean “serving as an illustration or example of something.”
Systems and methods for packaging are provided that include, for example, visual tamper indicator(s). In some implementations, the visual tamper indicator(s) are retained or tethered with the product (versus being separately discarded from the product or packaging). This helps to lower environmental waste and enhances recycling as the packaging components remain together. In other implementations, the visual tamper indicator(s) need not remain with the product.
In one implementation, the systems and methods include a tamper evident band or strip assembly. The assembly includes a visual untampered (or closed) state and a visual tampered (or open) state. In the visual untampered state, the assembly includes at least one band or strip body that is connected to a lid portion of the product packaging via one or more breakable tabs. In the unbroken tab state, the assembly provides or generates a visual untampered indicator state. Also in this state, in some implementations, the band or strip body includes a snap fit or snap lock (or interference fit) arrangement connecting the body to a base portion of the packaging that maintains the body with the base portion. The snap fit or snap lock arrangement can include, for example, one or more cantilevers, lugs, or projections having interlocking beads or bosses thereon. The beads or bosses can be in the form of, for example, projections such as hooks, channels, studs, etc., or any shape allows an interlocking snap fit arrangement. In this closed state, the packaging is maintained in an unopened and untampered state.
In the visual tampered state (or open state), the one or more breakable tabs are torn, broken, or disconnected, allowing the band or strip body to disengage or unlock from the lid portion. This frees or unlocks the lid portion of the packaging allowing it to open. The broken tabs provide or generate a visual tamper indication since the product packaging is no longer locked and can be opened. The band or strip body is retained or remains tethered or connected to the product packaging via, for example, the snap fit or snap lock arrangement with the base portion on the product packaging.
In another implementation, a dispensing or nozzle portion of the packaging is connected to the base portion via snap fit or snap lock arrangement. The nozzle and base portions are provided with interlocking bearing and guide surfaces or walls. This provides for a simpler assembly structure and correspondingly less complex molding and tooling for manufacturing the components of the assembly.
Referring now to FIG. 1 , one implementation of a packaging system 100 is shown in perspective view. Packaging system 100 is shown in the closed or visual untampered state. Packaging system 100 includes, for example, lid portion 102, base portion 104, and nozzle portion 106 (e.g., see FIG. 2 ). Packaging system 100 also includes tamper evident portion 108, which will be described in more detail. Packaging system 100 can be used, for example, to hold and dispense paste or other soft materials. This includes pastes such as toothpaste, gels, food products, cleaning products, hygiene products, adhesives, glues, etc. Other soft materials may also be packaged and dispensed.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of packaging system 100 in the open or visual tampered state. In this state, lid portion 102 has been opened by, for example, breaking the tabs in tamper evident portion 108. Lid portion 102 can be hinged to base portion 104 to allow lid portion 102 to pivot open for dispensing material and closed for withholding the material (e.g., see hinge 322 in FIGS. 3A-3C). In other implementations, lid portion 102 may screw on and off base portion 104 instead of a hinge connection. In any event, the broken tabs in tamper evident portion 108 provide a visual tamper indication because, once broken, the tabs cannot be reconnected to lid portion 102.
FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C show top, side and bottom views, respectively, of packaging system 100 prior to initial assembly or closure. Lid portion 102 includes a tamper evident assembly having first portion 303, second portion 305, and third portion 307. Second portion 305 includes a band or strip body 300 and third portion 307 includes a projecting portion 302. Base portion 104 includes a support or bearing surface 304 and an opening 306 for receiving at least a part of projecting portion 302. As will be described in more detail later, these components form a snap fit or snap lock arrangement that connects or fixates the tamper evident assembly to the base portion 104. In this implementation, band or strip body 300, projecting portion 302, support or bearing surface 304, and opening 306 are arcuate in shape. In other embodiments, they need not be arcuate but can be substantially straight. Moreover, the arcuate shape need not be smooth, but can include one more substantially straight sections with angles therebetween (e.g., partial polygon(s)) that approximate an arcuate shape. Other shapes and configurations are also possible.
Lid portion 102 includes a notch, cut-out or recessed space 316 where the tamper evident assembly (e.g., band or strip body 300, etc.) is initially placed or formed. Space 316 is bound by walls 318 and 320. Within space 316, the tamper evident assembly is connected or fixated to lid portion 102 by first portion 303, which includes one or more tabs or tab-like structures 314 a, 314 b, 314 c, and 314 d. While these structures are shown as tabs, they can be any structure or shape that can be broken or torn to release lid portion 102 so that it can open after assembly to base portion 104. In other implementations, band or strip body 300 can be connected to lid portion 102 via, for example, a row of breakable perforations. Lid portion 102 also includes an extension portion 312, which can be used to be pushed against to lift open the lid. A nozzle cap portion 310 can also be provided to close the dispensing nozzle when lid portion 102 is in the closed state (e.g., see cap wall 800 in FIGS. 8E and 8D). In one implementation, lid portion 102 is formed or molded (e.g., via, for example, plastic injection molding) with tamper evident portion 108 as a component thereof. In other implementations, tamper evident portion 108 can be formed separately from lid portion 102 and connected or affixed thereto via any suitable arrangement including adhesives, welding, interference fit, etc.
Base portion 104 includes support or bearing surface 304, opening 306, nozzle opening 308, and surface 324. As previously described, support or bearing surface 304 and opening 306 work with band or strip body 300 and projecting portion 302 to form one implementation of a tamper evident feature. Nozzle opening 308 allows a dispensing nozzle of nozzle portion 106 to project therethrough (e.g., see FIG. 2 ). Surface 324 is a tapered surface provided for ergonomics to facilitate a user's thumb or finger action in opening the lid portion 102 of packaging system 100. As previously described, base portion 104 can be connected to lid portion 102 via any number of arrangements including, for example, hinged connection 322. Hinge 322 can include one or more hinges made of thin plastic material which can flex or bend repeatedly without breaking to allow lid portion 102 to open and close with respect to nozzle portion 106 and/or base portion 104. In other implementations, base portion 104 and lid portion 102 can be connected together via a threaded arrangement whereby lid portion 102 can be unthreaded or unscrewed from base portion 104.
FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C show side, top, and bottom views, respectively, of nozzle portion 106. Nozzle portion 106 is connected to a container or package body having the substance to be dispensed. Nozzle portion 106 includes base or shoulder portion 400, neck portion 406, and nozzle 414. Base or shoulder portion 400 includes base wall 402 and tapered wall 404. Neck portion 406 includes wall 408, bearing recess 410, and extension wall 412. Nozzle 414 includes bearing surface 416, tapered surface 418, and opening 420 for dispensing material. Nozzle portion 106 also includes corresponding interior components including inner tapered wall 422, bearing wall 424, and inner tapered wall 426. As will be described in more detail, in one implementation, nozzle portion 106 and base portion 104 are configured to be connected to each other via a snap fit or snap lock arrangement. In other implementations, other connecting arrangements can be used including, for example, threaded connections, adhesives or glues, heat welding, etc.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of base portion 104 taken along section lines shown in FIG. 3C. As previously described, base portion 104 is arranged to connect or be fixated to nozzle portion 106 via, in one implementation, a snap fit or snap lock arrangement. Base portion 104 includes first nozzle mounting portion 500 and second nozzle mounting portion 508. In one implementation, first nozzle mounting portion 500 includes tapered wall 502, bearing wall 504 and wall 506. Second nozzle mounting portion 508 includes tapered wall 510 and bearing wall 512.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of nozzle portion 106 taken along section lines shown in FIG. 4C. In FIG. 6 , the exterior of nozzle portion 106 further includes guide wall 600 and bearing wall 602 in neck portion 406. The snap fit or snap lock arrangement between base portion 104 and nozzle portion 106 will be described more fully in connection with FIG. 8E.
FIGS. 7 and 8A, 8B, and 8C illustrate front, top, side, and bottom views, respectively, of the implementation of FIGS. 1-2 in the closed or visual untampered state. In this state, lid portion 102 is securely connected to base portion 104 via tamper evident portion 108 (e.g., band or strip body 300 and tab structures 314 a-314 d.) Band or strip body 300 is connected to lid portion 102 via tab structures 314 a-314 d and is securely connected to base portion 104 via the previously described snap fit or snap lock arrangement. Thus, lid portion 102 is closed and remains closed until tab structures 314 a-314 d are torn or broken, which then provides a visual indication of tampering (or opening lid portion 102).
FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional view taken through the section lines shown in FIG. 8C and FIG. 9 is a magnified view of the section indicated in FIG. 8D. Referring now to FIGS. 8D and 9 , the tamper evident assembly 108 will be described in connection with the closed or visual untampered state. In one implementation, band or strip body 300 includes a tab portion and a snap fit (or snap lock) portion. The tab portion includes body wall 900 from which tab structures 314 a, 314 b, 314 c, and 314 d extend and connect to wall 320 of lid portion 102. The snap fit or snap lock portion includes, for example, body wall 902 from which projects a bead or lug wall 904. Bead or lug wall 904, along with wall 906 and bearing wall 908, form a bead or lug that outwardly projects from the tamper evident assembly 108. Bearing wall 908 connects to extension wall 912, which in one implementation has a second bead or lug structure that can be in the form of a hook portion 916. The second bead or lug structure includes a cam or tapered wall 914 opposite the hook extension.
So formed, tamper evident portion 108 is inserted into opening 306 in base portion 104 by inserting the hook portion 916 therein. In order to form the snap fit or snap lock connection, opening 306 is sized slightly smaller than hook portion 916. As hook portion 916 is inserted into opening 306, cam or tapered wall 914 causes opening 306 to slightly expand until hook portion 916 passes therethrough. Once hook portion 916 passes through, opening 306 returns to its original size. The insertion depth of hook portion 916 is limited by bearing wall 908 of tamper evident portion 108 making contact with bearing wall 910 of base portion 104. Once inserted, hook portion 916 cannot be withdrawn because surface 918 of hook portion 916 bears against projecting surface 920 of base portion 104. Surface 920 of base portion 104 forms an opposite bead, lug or hook to lock or prevent hook portion 916 from withdrawal from base portion 104. In one implementation, lid portion 102, base portion 104, nozzle portion 106, and tamper evident portion 108 are made of a resilient material such as plastic or similar material, which can flex or bend without breaking and can accommodate the snap fit or snap lock arrangements disclosed herein. Thus, in this manner, lid portion 102 is initially closed against base portion 104 thereby presenting tamper evident portion 108 in the closed or visual untampered state.
FIG. 8E is a cross-sectional view of packaging system 100 taken along the section line shown in FIG. 8C. FIG. 8F is a similar cross-section but in perspective view. As previously described, base portion 104 and nozzle portion 106 are connected to each other. In one implementation, the connection is via a snap fit or snap lock (or interference fit) arrangement. This is accomplished by inserting nozzle 414 through opening 308 in base portion 104. Nozzle 414 is tapered via surface 418 and gets progressively larger away from the dispensing end of the nozzle. Nozzle opening 308 in base portion 104 is sized slightly smaller than the base portion of nozzle 414. However, as nozzle 414 is inserted, tapered surface 418 acts as a cam to flexibly widen nozzle opening 308 so nozzle 414 can pass therethrough and then return or snap back to its original size and shape thereafter. In one implementation, wall 512 (and second nozzle mounting portion 508) has a first orientation (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 8E and 8F) and a second, flexed orientation (e.g., flexed upward) whereby nozzle opening 308 is enlarged during insertion of nozzle portion 106. Nozzle 414 is retained in position by bearing surface 416 of nozzle 414 bearing against wall 512 of first nozzle mounting portion 500 of base portion 104. So formed, tapered surface 418 and surface 416 form a locking bead, projection or lug that connects with first nozzle mounting portion 500.
Further movement of nozzle portion 106 in the outward direction is restricted by second nozzle mounting portion 508 that includes bearing wall 504, which bears against wall 602 of nozzle portion 106. As shown particularly in FIG. 8F, walls 504 are received within bearing recesses 410. During nozzle portion 106 insertion, walls 504 and bearing recesses 410 also act as orientation and locating structures to orient and locate nozzle portion 106 with respect to base portion 104 to provide for proper insertion and snap fit/lock connection. Walls 504 and bearing recesses 410 also cooperate to limit the insertion distance of nozzle portion 106 into base portion 104 and the rotation of each component with respect to the other. In the implementation shown, walls 504 and bearing recesses 410 have curved or arched shapes. In other implementations, different shapes can be used including, for example, one or more structures that are straight (and/or channel-like), triangular, rectangular, partially polygonal. Further yet, walls 504 can include a projection (e.g., a bead, lug, hook, etc.) that is received within a space in bearing recesses 410 to form an (additional) snap fit/lock arrangement. Also, tapered wall 510 can be in the form of one or more braces or supports that structurally strengthen first nozzle mounting portion 500. Thus, first nozzle mounting portion 500 and second nozzle mounting portion 508 of base portion 104 cooperate with bearing surfaces in nozzle portion 106 to fixate nozzle portion 106 in position through a snap fit or snap lock (or interference fit) arrangement after the insertion process is complete.
During this insertion process, bearing recesses 410 on nozzle portion 106 contact correspondingly shaped projecting walls 506 on base portion 104 to guide and fixate the two components (i.e., nozzle portion 106 and base portion 104) as the insertion process is performed. In one implementation, bearing recesses 410 are recessed portions with elliptical or partially elliptical shapes and projecting walls 506 have a similar shape except they project in a manner so that they can be received partially or fully with recesses 410. Shapes other can elliptical can also be used including, for example, circular or partial circular, polygonal and partially polygonal, etc. The exact shape is not critical so long as a guiding, orientation, and/or fixation function is provided between the nozzle portion 106 and base portion 104.
FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, and 13 illustrate top, side, bottom and front views, respectively, of the implementation of FIGS. 1-2 in the open or visual tampered state. Prior to this state, lid portion 102 was closed and securely connected to base portion 104 via tamper evident portion 108 (e.g., band or strip body 300 and tab structures 314 a-314 d.) In order to open lid portion 102, tab structures 314 a-314 d have to be torn or broken thereby providing a visual tampered state indication.
FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate cross-section and magnified views of packaging system 100 taken along the section line shown in FIG. 10C with packaging system 100 in the open or visual tampered state. From FIGS. 11 and 12 , it can be seen that tamper evident portion 108 remains with base portion 104 after lid portion 102 has been opened. Tab structures 314 a, 314 b, 314 c, and 314 d have been torn or broken to allow lid portion 102 to open. Tamper evident portion 108 remains with base portion 104 by virtue of the previously described snap fit or snap lock (or interference fit) arrangement. Lid portion 102 can be returned to the closed state but tab structures 314 a, 314 b, 314 c, and 314 d will remain torn or broken so as to not change the visual tamper indication.
As previously described, the visual tamper indicator is retained or tethered with the product (versus being separately discarded from the product or packaging). This helps to lower environmental waste and enhances recycling as the packaging components remain together. In other implementations, the visual tamper indicator(s) need not remain with the product.
While packaging system 100 has been shown having substantially arcuate shapes and geometries, non-arcuate shapes and geometries can be used. For example, packaging system 100 and its components can have polygonal (e.g., triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, etc.) shapes and geometries. Further, while tamper evident portion 108 has been shown generally configured as arcuate in plan views and substantially straight in elevation views (e.g., see FIG. 7 ), other configurations are possible. For example, tamper evident portion 108 can also have an arcuate configuration/shape in elevational view. This arcuate shape in front elevational view can be, for example, a gently sloping U shape or inverted U shape (or sine shape), an undulating (or wavy) shape, etc. Tamper evident portion 108 can also have polygonal shapes that approximate arcs such as, for example, a partial pentagon or hexagon, etc.
Further yet, the various snap fit or snap lock (or interference fit) arrangements disclosed herein can be modified to include other such arrangements. For example, lugs, beads, or hooks can be cantilevered, complementary lug, bead, and/or hooking arrangements can be used, lug, bead, or hooks can be used with locking receptacles or recesses, etc. Hence, the exact form of snap fit or snap lock (or interference fit) configuration is not critical so long as it provides a connection or fixation of the components.
Still further yet, while the tamper evident portion 108 has been shown formed with lid portion 102 and snap fit or snap locked to base portion 104, the opposite configuration is also possible. That is, tamper evident portion 108 can be formed with base portion 104 and snap fit or snap locked to lid portion 102. The tab structures 314 a, etc. would still need to be torn or broken to release lid portion 102 to allow it to open and to provide a visual tampered state indication.
FIGS. 14, 15, and 16 are perspective, side and front views, respectively, of one implementation of an ornamental design for a packaging system. In this implementation, the broken or dashed lines represent environment and form no part of the design. In other implementations, one or more of the broken lines (including all broken lines) can be shown as solid lines representing parts of the design. For example, the lid portion or base portion can be shown in either solid or broken lines. Also, in other implementations, one or more of the solid lines in the tamper evident feature can be shown as dashed lines. For example, the tabs or tab structures can be shown in either broken or solid lines.
The following includes additional description of examples and implementations. The implementations are intended to illustrate examples of combinations of elements and are not intended to limit the scope of any particular example or implementation disclosed herein.
Implementation 1. A packaging system comprising: a lid and a base portion; and a tamper evident assembly comprising first, second and third portions, the first portion comprising a plurality of breakable structures connected to the lid portion; the second portion comprising a projecting bearing surface; the third portion comprising a hook portion; and wherein the tamper evident assembly includes a first state comprising the plurality of breakable structures being unbroken and a second state comprising the plurality of breakable structures being broken.
Implementation 2. The packaging system of implementation 1 wherein the hook portion comprises a cam surface.
Implementation 3. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-2 wherein base portion comprises an opening for receiving the hook portion.
Implementation 4. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-3 wherein the tamper evident assembly is disposed in recessed space of the lid portion.
Implementation 5. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-4 wherein the first, second and third portions are disposed on a body of the tamper evident assembly.
Implementation 6. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-5 wherein the tamper evident assembly is retained by the base portion after the plurality of breakable structures are broken.
Implementation 7. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-6 further comprising a nozzle portion connected to the base portion.
Implementation 8. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-7 wherein the second portion is disposed between the first and third portions.
Implementation 9. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-8 wherein the projecting bearing surface bears against a support surface of the base portion.
Implementation 10. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-9 wherein the tamper evident assembly comprises an arcuate body.
Implementation 11. A packaging system comprising: a base portion and a nozzle portion; the base portion comprising: an opening for receiving the nozzle portion and first and second nozzle mounting portions, the first nozzle mounting portion comprising a first wall that is received with a recess of the nozzle portion to orient the nozzle portion for insertion into the base portion; and the second nozzle mounting portion comprising a second wall that is received within a neck portion of the nozzle portion; and wherein the first nozzle portion and second nozzle portion comprise a snap fit connection that maintains the base portion and nozzle portion connected together.
Implementation 12. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-11.
Implementation 13. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-12 wherein the first wall comprises an arcuate shape.
Implementation 14. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-13 wherein the recess of the nozzle portion comprises an arcuate shape.
Implementation 15. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-14 wherein the nozzle portion comprises a locking bead portion that bears against the second wall.
Implementation 16. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-15 wherein the nozzle portion further comprises a dispensing portion and wherein the neck portion is at least partially recessed from the dispensing portion.
Implementation 17. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-16 wherein the opening of the base portion comprises a first size and a second larger size during insertion of the nozzle portion.
Implementation 18. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-17 wherein second nozzle mounting portion comprises first orientation and second orientation that is a flexed orientation during insertion of the nozzle portion.
Implementation 19. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-18 wherein the nozzle portion comprises a tapered surface that bears against the second nozzle mounting portion during insertion.
Implementation 20. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-19 wherein the first wall limits the insertion distance of the nozzle portion in to the base portion.
Implementation 21. The packaging system of any of implementations 1-20 wherein the first wall limits rotation of the nozzle portion with respect to the base portion during insertion.
As described herein, when one or more components are described as being connected, joined, affixed, coupled, attached, or otherwise interconnected, such interconnection can be direct as between the components or can be indirect such as through the use of one or more intermediary components. Also as described herein, reference to a “member,” “component,” or “portion” shall not be limited to a single structural member, component, or element but can include an assembly of components, members, or elements. Also as described herein, the terms “substantially” and “about” are defined as at least close to (and includes) a given value or state (preferably within 10% of, more preferably within 1% of, and most preferably within 0.1% of).
The various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the disclosures may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the examples herein, these various aspects, concepts, and features may be used in many alternative implementations, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present application. Still further, while various alternative implementations as to the various aspects, concepts, and features of the disclosures-such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, devices, and components, alternatives as to form, fit, and function, and so on—may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available implementations, whether presently known or later developed. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or more of the inventive aspects, concepts, or features into additional implementations and uses within the scope of the present application even if such implementations are not expressly disclosed herein.
Additionally, even though some features, concepts, or aspects of the disclosures may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. Still further, example or representative values and ranges may be included to assist in understanding the present application, however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges only if so expressly stated.
Moreover, while various aspects, features and concepts may be expressly identified herein as being inventive or forming part of a disclosure, such identification is not intended to be exclusive, but rather there may be inventive aspects, concepts, and features that are fully described herein without being expressly identified as such or as part of a specific disclosure, the disclosures instead being set forth in the appended claims. Descriptions of example methods or processes are not limited to inclusion of all steps as being required in all cases, nor is the order that the steps are presented to be construed as required or necessary unless expressly so stated. The words used in the claims have their full ordinary meanings and are not limited in any way by the description of the implementations in the specification or description.

Claims

1. A packaging system comprising:

a lid and a base portion; and

tamper evident assembly comprising first, second and third portions,

the first portion comprising a plurality of breakable structures connected to the lid portion;

the second portion comprising a projecting bearing surface;

the third portion comprising a hook portion; and

wherein the tamper evident assembly includes a first state comprising the plurality of breakable structures being unbroken and a second state comprising the plurality of breakable structures being broken.

2. The packaging system of claim 1 wherein the hook portion comprises a cam surface.

3. The packaging system of any of claim 1 wherein base portion comprises an opening for receiving the hook portion.

4. The packaging system of any of claim 1 wherein the tamper evident assembly is disposed in a recessed space of the lid portion.

5. The packaging system of any of claim 1 wherein the first, second and third portions are disposed on a body of the tamper evident assembly.

6. The packaging system of any of claim 1 wherein the tamper evident assembly is retained by the base portion after the plurality of breakable structures are broken.

7. The packaging system of any of claim 1 further comprising a nozzle portion connected to the base portion.

8. The packaging system of any of claim 1 wherein the second portion is disposed between the first and third portions.

9. The packaging system of any of claim 1 wherein the projecting bearing surface bears against a support surface of the base portion.

10. The packaging system of any of claim 1 wherein the tamper evident assembly comprises an arcuate body.

11. A packaging system comprising:

a base portion and a nozzle portion;

the base portion comprising: an opening for receiving the nozzle portion and first and second nozzle mounting portions,

the first nozzle mounting portion comprising a first wall that is received with a recess of the nozzle portion to orient the nozzle portion for insertion into the base portion; and

the second nozzle mounting portion comprising a second wall that is received within a neck portion of the nozzle portion; and

wherein the first nozzle portion and second nozzle portion comprise a snap fit connection that maintains the base portion and nozzle portion connected together.

12. The packaging system of claim 11 wherein the first wall comprises an arcuate shape.

13. The packaging system of any one of claim 11 wherein the recess of the nozzle portion comprises an arcuate shape.

14. The packaging system of any one of claim 11 wherein the nozzle portion comprises a locking bead portion that bears against the second wall.

15. The packaging system of any one of claim 11 wherein the nozzle portion further comprises a dispensing portion and wherein the neck portion is at least partially recessed from the dispensing portion.

16. The packaging system of any one of claim 11 wherein the opening of the base portion comprises a first size and a second larger size during insertion of the nozzle portion.

17. The packaging system of any one of claim 11 wherein second nozzle mounting portion comprises first orientation and second orientation that is a flexed orientation during insertion of the nozzle portion.

18. The packaging system of any one of claim 11 wherein the nozzle portion comprises a tapered surface that bears against the second nozzle mounting portion during insertion.

19. The packaging system of any one of claim 11 wherein the first wall limits the insertion distance of the nozzle portion in to the base portion.

20. The packaging system of any one of claim 11 wherein the first wall limits rotation of the nozzle portion with respect to the base portion during insertion.