EP2276678B1 - Powered toothbrush package - Google Patents
Powered toothbrush package Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2276678B1 EP2276678B1 EP08732459.6A EP08732459A EP2276678B1 EP 2276678 B1 EP2276678 B1 EP 2276678B1 EP 08732459 A EP08732459 A EP 08732459A EP 2276678 B1 EP2276678 B1 EP 2276678B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- package
- toothbrush
- demonstration
- oral care
- care implement
- 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.)
- Not-in-force
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Classifications
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- 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
- B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
- B65D75/28—Articles or materials wholly enclosed in composite wrappers, i.e. wrappers formed by associating or interconnecting two or more sheets or blanks
- B65D75/30—Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding
- B65D75/32—Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents
- B65D75/36—Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents one sheet or blank being recessed and the other formed of relatively stiff flat sheet material, e.g. blister packages, the recess or recesses being preformed
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- 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
- B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
- B65D75/52—Details
- B65D75/54—Cards, coupons, or other inserts or accessories
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- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
- G09F19/00—Advertising or display means not otherwise provided for
- G09F19/02—Advertising or display means not otherwise provided for incorporating moving display members
- G09F19/10—Devices demonstrating the action of an article to be advertised
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
- G09F19/00—Advertising or display means not otherwise provided for
- G09F19/12—Advertising or display means not otherwise provided for using special optical effects
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- 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
- B65D2201/00—Means or constructions for testing or controlling the contents
-
- 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
- B65D2203/00—Decoration means, markings, information elements, contents indicators
- B65D2203/12—Audible, olfactory or visual signalling means
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a package in general, and more particularly to a powered toothbrush package that visually demonstrates the functionality of a toothbrush.
- Consumers generally use various sensing capabilities including sight, sound and touch in making a determination as to the desirability of a product.
- sights including sight, sound and touch
- products may not be completely accessible to a consumer because the products may be housed, contained or otherwise wrapped in packaging to protect against loss or damage.
- US 20060207901 describes a toothbrush package including a liquid filled demonstration feature for demonstrating toothbrush functionality.
- WO02101669 describes a document authentication system using Moiré intensity profiles.
- the present invention provides a package according to claim 1.
- the present invention provides product packaging that can effectively convey features, components and/or potential uses of a product to a potential consumer at a point of sale. Hence, consumers will often feel more comfortable purchasing a product that they have seen demonstrated in an illustrative use environment. With the principles of the present invention, conveyance of product attributes and demonstration of the use of the product is possible utilizing product packaging.
- FIGS. 1-26 Several constructions of a package assembly are disclosed in FIGS. 1-26 .
- the constructions may include oral care implements, such as toothbrushes, tongue cleaners and other related apparatus, which are typically displayed for purchase within product packaging.
- the package assembly is used to contain a powered oral care implement such as a powered toothbrush.
- a powered oral care implement such as a powered toothbrush.
- the package assembly utilizes relative movement of indicia to provide unique visual features. It is understood that the principals of the present invention can also be used with various other types of products wherein the products utilize the indicia to provide visual effects.
- FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate a concept of superimposing a repetitive design (such as a grid of lines) on the same or a different design, to produce a pattern distinct from its separate component designs.
- An appearance of a new set of lines passing through the points where the original lines cross at small angles may be created so that the human eye is enabled to perceive a distortion or flickering of indicia, such as printed or displayed high-contrast images.
- a first set of lines 1 is superimposed over a second set of lines 2.
- a first set of lines 3 is superimposed over a second set of lines 4. It can be seen that the respective sets of lines in FIGS. 2 and 3 are in different forms. As is apparent from FIGS.
- each set of lines 1, 2, 3,4 positioned to create the Moiré effect 5 may be referred to as a Moiré pattern 6.
- the Moiré effect 5 can occur when two or more sets of lines, dots or related structures differ in relative size, angle, spacing or the like.
- the first set of lines 1 may be described as vertical lines in parallel, and the second set of lines 2 may be described as wavy lines.
- the first set of lines 1 is superimposed on the second set of wavy lines 2.
- This contrast in curvature creates the visual Moiré effect 5 as described.
- the Moiré effect 5 is also created in FIG. 3 when two sets of curved lines 3, 4 are superimposed on one another.
- both sets of lines 3,4 in FIG. 3 may generally be described as curved lines, the sets of lines 3, 4 possess different specific features including location and size of curvature. When these two sets of lines 3, 4 are superimposed on one another, this superimposed variance in features is detected by the human eye so as to create the Moiré effect 5 as is apparent when viewing FIG. 3 .
- This described Moiré effect 5 may in certain instances be generated in nature such as when an observer looks though a window screen and views another window screen or a background of a certain characteristic.
- the Moiré effect 5 may also be purposely generated using photographic, graphical and/or electronic reproduction means as is well known in the art.
- FIGS. 1 and 4-6 generally disclose an exemplary construction of a package assembly including features that may be present in embodiments of the present invention, generally designated with the reference numeral 10.
- the package assembly 10 may also be referenced as an oral care implement vibration demonstration assembly 10.
- the package assembly 10 includes a contained product 12 in the form of a powered oral care implement that may be in the form of a powered toothbrush, a package 14 and indicia 16 operably associated with the contained product 12 and/or the package 14.
- the indicia 16 can take many different forms including being included on additional members such as an insert or demonstration element as further described below.
- contained product 12 is an oral care implement.
- the oral care implement may take the form of a powered toothbrush.
- Various powered toothbrushes are well known in the art, including battery powered toothbrushes.
- the powered toothbrush 12 includes a head 18, a body 20 and a neck 22 connecting the head 18 to the body 20.
- the head 18 further includes a base support 24 and a cleaning member 26 including a plurality of cleaning elements 28.
- the cleaning elements 28 may include bristles or other known components used in cleaning the oral cavity.
- the cleaning elements 28 may be made of various polymers, nylons and/or other well known materials commonly used to assist in cleaning of an oral cavity including the teeth, gums and tongue.
- the base support 24 serves as a supporting structure for the cleaning elements 28.
- the base support 24 is configured to move the cleaning elements 28 in response to a user input provided to the toothbrush 12 as described below.
- Powered toothbrushes 12 may include cleaning members 26 that rotate, vibrate, oscillate or translate.
- the cleaning elements 28 may take the form of bristles such as in a standard toothbrush or bristles arranged on one or more rotating, vibrating, oscillating or translating components on the base support 24 as is known in the art.
- the cleaning member 26 such as the one shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 may be vibrated or moved in one or more axial directions. Combinations of translation, vibration and/or rotation may also be implemented.
- a powered drive mechanism and an associated power source are typically housed within the body 20 of the oral care implement.
- the toothbrush 12 may be compatible with and/or utilize one or more of alkaline or various types of known rechargeable batteries 30 ( FIG. 1 ) capable of powering the toothbrush 12.
- a motor or other known power generating mechanism (not shown) is linked to the cleaning member 26 and drives the cleaning member 26 in various manners as discussed. Accordingly, the cleaning member 26 may be rotated, vibrated, or oscillated for oral care instruments of varying types.
- the description of the movement capabilities of the oral care implement 12, including the movement characteristics of the cleaning member 26 and the cleaning elements 28, is for illustration and convenience in a non- limiting manner.
- the body 20 and the neck 22 of the toothbrush may be formed from a unitary piece or multiple components.
- the base support 24 of the head 18 may also be formed as part of a unitary toothbrush 12.
- a toothbrush grip may be part of the body 20 and formed of a number of features and further may have a surface that improves the ability of the toothbrush to be gripped by human fingers. Grip enhancing elements may also be applied including grip regions and roughened or grooved surfaces.
- a user input 32 in the form of a depressible button is utilized in turning the powered toothbrush 12 to the "On” position and the “Off” position as is known.
- the user input 32 may include depressible buttons, switches, dials, slides, knobs and numerous other activation components that may be utilized to change the state of a device between the "On” and “Off” positions.
- the package 14 is provided to contain the toothbrush 12.
- the package 14 can take various forms and generally has a housing to contain the product.
- the package 14 includes a base member 34 and a cover 36 in one exemplary construction.
- the base member 34 is a panel-like member and generally supports the toothbrush 12 by serving as a backing member for the toothbrush 12.
- the base member 34 may be formed of a number of shapes, dimensions and materials. In certain constructions, the base member 34 may include a cutout for the toothbrush 12 to permit tighter product packaging.
- the cover 36 of the package 14 is attached to the base member 34 to house or contain the toothbrush 12 in the package 14.
- the cover 36 may be of a translucent or transparent material wherein a purchaser can view the contents or at least a portion of the contents without opening or damaging the package 14.
- the cover 36 has an arched segment 38 to provide clearance to fit over the oral care implement 12 housed between the base member 34 and the cover 36.
- the cover 36 may take various specific shapes and configurations and may also be omitted from the product packaging.
- the cover 36 may also house or support portions of the indicia 16 as described in greater detail below. Further, instructional and informational materials may also be housed within the package 14 such as between the base member 34 and the cover 36 and particularly fit along an interior surface of the cover 36.
- the toothbrush 12 is contained within the package 14 and can be viewed by a consumer through the transparent cover 36.
- the indicia 16 may be operably associated with the package 14 including one or both of the base member 34 (in accordance with the invention of claim 1) and the cover 36.
- the powered toothbrush package 10 further includes the indicia 16.
- the indicia 16 are omitted from FIG. 4 but are shown in FIG. 5 .
- the indicia 16 can take many different forms and can be operably associated with various structures of the package assembly 10 including the base member 34 (in accordance with the invention of claim 1), the cover 36 and the toothbrush 12 depending on the desired visual effect to be produced.
- the indicia 16 may include a first demonstration element 40 having a first marking 42 and a second demonstration element 44 having a second marking 46. In this construction, the first demonstration element 40 is positioned on the cover 36 and in one preferred construction, this portion of the indicia 16 is printed directly onto the cover 36.
- This demonstration element 40 may be considered a visual demonstration reference element 40.
- the second demonstration element 44 is included on a separate member which may be referred to as an insert 48 as the insert 48 is a separate member from the basic package components.
- the insert 48 may be considered a visual demonstration insert 48.
- the insert 48 has a generally planar top panel 50 having the second marking 46 thereon.
- the insert 48 further has a pair of depending side panels 52.
- the side panels 52 have an inward arcuate shape to facilitate attachment to the head 18 as described in greater detail below.
- the second demonstration element 44 is operably associated with the toothbrush 12 and positioned beneath the first demonstration element 40.
- the demonstration elements 40, 44 can be positioned at different locations on the package 14. As can be appreciated from FIG.
- the first demonstration element 40 and the second demonstration element 44 have complementary markings 42,46 of similar design.
- the markings 42,46 making up the indicia 16 may be any visually perceivable elements including sets of lines, dots, symbols designs, figures, graphical illustrations, pictures, symbols, colored elements, and specific Moiré markings or Moiré patterns.
- the indicia 16 are structured to provide a visual effect to a consumer viewing the package assembly 10.
- the individual components are attached to form the package assembly 10.
- the second demonstration element 44 is operably associated with the toothbrush 12.
- the insert 48 is connected to the toothbrush 12 wherein the side panels 52 are attached to the head 18 via an adhesive or other known attachment methods.
- the insert 48 is removably attached wherein a consumer can remove the insert 48 after opening the package 14 after purchase.
- the top panel 50 is positioned over the cleaning member 26.
- the toothbrush 12 with the attached second demonstration element 44 is then attached or otherwise supported by the base member 34 of the package 14.
- the cover 36 is then positioned over the toothbrush 12 and attached to the base member 34 by known attachment methods. As can be appreciated from FIGS.
- the first demonstration element 40 with the first marking 42 is positioned over the second demonstration element 44 with the second marking 46.
- the markings 42,46 are in a visually overlapping configuration, or in superimposed relation.
- the markings 42, 46 can also be aligned or slightly offset or staggered if desired. More specifically, from at least one vantage point exterior to the package assembly 10, an observer would perceive at least a portion of the demonstration elements 40, 44 overlapping.
- the first marking 42 is complementary to the second marking 46, so that taken together, the elements 40, 44 provide a visual effect to a consumer viewing the package assembly 10.
- An enhanced visual effect and visual demonstration can be provided by moving the demonstration elements 40, 44 relative to one another thereby further manipulating the superimposed markings.
- the demonstration elements 40, 44 are moved relative to one another in various speeds, patterns and directions to create desired visual effects and, as later described, to include a visual effect that demonstrates features of an oral care implement.
- this relative movement may be accomplished by moving one of the demonstration elements 40, 44 and keeping the other element in a stationary position when viewed with the package 14 as a point of reference.
- both demonstration elements 40, 44 may be moved in relation to the package 14, often in associated or complimentary fashion.
- a visual effect produced from relative motion relies on a user input provided to the toothbrush 12 wherein the package assembly 10 may be referred to as an oral care implement vibration demonstration assembly 10.
- a consumer can press the user input 32 through the cover 36 to activate or vibrate the toothbrush 12. Vibration is one exemplary form of movement.
- the head 18 and cleaning member 26 vibrate and therefore move.
- the second demonstration element 44 is attached to the head 18, the second demonstration element 44 also moves from the vibration.
- the demonstration elements 40, 44 may be referred to as vibration demonstration elements.
- the first demonstration element 40 remains stationary, and this element is considered the visual demonstration reference element. This configuration could be reversed if desired wherein the first demonstration element 40 could be configured for movement while the second demonstration element 44 could become stationary as a reference element. It is also understood that both demonstration elements 40, 44 could be configured for movement if desired.
- the indicia 16 could also take the form of a single Moiré pattern (e.g., FIGS. 2 and 3 ) that is operably associated with the package 14.
- the indicia 16 in this form having overlapping designs could be printed on the base member 34 (in accordance with the invention of claim 1), or alternatively on the cover 36 to produce a visual effect for the viewer.
- FIGS. 7-11 disclose an exemplary construction of the present invention.
- the construction of FIGS. 7-11 is similar to the construction of FIGS. 4-6 and similar components will be designated using similar reference numerals in a 100 reference numeral series.
- a package assembly 100 generally includes a powered toothbrush 112, a package 114 and indicia 116 operably associated with the toothbrush 112 and the package 114.
- the indicia 116 can take many different forms and in this construction, the indicia 116 include additional features that produce further visual effects providing even greater impact to a viewer.
- the toothbrush 112 is substantially identical to the toothbrush 12 of FIGS. 4-5 and the above description is applicable to this construction.
- the package 114 is similar to the package 14 of FIGS. 4-6 and generally includes a housing formed by the base member 134 and the cover 136.
- the cover 136 is shaped and dimensioned to define a cavity 137 that generally corresponds to the shape of the toothbrush 112. As before, the cover 136 is generally transparent.
- FIGS. 7-9 further show the indicia 116 operably associated with the package assembly 100.
- the indicia 116 are associated with the base member 134 and the toothbrush 112.
- the indicia 116 includes a first demonstration element 140 having a first marking 142 and a second demonstration element 144 having a second marking 146.
- the first demonstration element 140 is positioned on the base member 134 and in one preferred construction, this demonstration element 140 is printed directly onto the base member 134.
- This demonstration element 140 may be considered a visual demonstration reference element 140.
- the first demonstration element 140 includes a first segment 150 and the first marking 142 includes a first design element 152.
- the indicia 116 can include many different elements.
- the first demonstration element 140 also includes a second segment 154 having a marking in the form of an oral cavity 156, specifically an open human mouth.
- the oral cavity 156 includes a depiction of teeth 157 and a tongue 159.
- the oral cavity 156 is printed directly onto the base member 134.
- the oral cavity 156 will cooperate with other demonstration elements as described in greater detail below.
- the indicia 116 also include the second demonstration element 144 as a separate member in the form of the insert 148.
- the insert 148 may be considered a visual demonstration insert 148.
- the insert 148 in this construction is a generally planar member 148 having the second marking 146 thereon.
- the insert 148 is generally transparent or translucent.
- the second demonstration element 144 includes a first segment 160 and the second marking 146 includes a second design element 162.
- the second demonstration element 144 also includes a second segment 164 having a marking in the form of a mini-toothbrush 166.
- the mini-toothbrush 166 will cooperate with the oral cavity 156 as described in greater detail below.
- the mini-toothbrush 166 may be integral with the design element 162.
- the insert 148 further includes a cut-out portion 168 dimensioned to receive the head 118 of the toothbrush 112.
- the cut-out portion 168 is generally hour-glass shaped.
- the cut-out portion is represented by boundary lines. The cut-out portion is made through a part of the first design element 152.
- the first design element 152 of the first demonstration element 140 and the second design element 162 of the second demonstration element 144 are generally complementary in shape.
- the design elements 152, 162 When the package assembly 100 is assembled, the design elements 152, 162 generally overlap and provide a visual effect in the form of a Moire effect.
- the oral cavity 156 and mini-toothbrush 166 also complement one another. As discussed below, these various components of the indicia 116 cooperate to produce visual effects to a consumer viewing the package assembly 100.
- the individual components are attached to form the package assembly 100.
- the second demonstration element 144 is attached to the toothbrush 112 wherein the cleaning member 126 is received by the cut-out portion 168 in an interference fit.
- the toothbrush 112 is generally attached or supported by the base member 134.
- the cover 136 is placed over the toothbrush 112 and attached to the base member 134, the toothbrush 112 being received in the cavity 137 of the cover 136. It is noted that the cover 136 is not shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 .
- the second demonstration element 144 is positioned over the first demonstration element 140.
- the second design element 162 overlaps the first design element 152 thereby producing a visual effect.
- the respective lines of the design elements may be considered to be Moiré designs that upon being placed in an overlapping fashion, provide a Moiré pattern. It is understood that the design elements 152,162 could be aligned or offset in FIG. 10 as desired.
- the mini-toothbrush 166 is positioned proximate the oral cavity 156. It is further understood that in FIG. 10 , the toothbrush 112 is in an inactivated state.
- a further enhanced feature is provided that relies on the user input 132.
- the toothbrush 112 upon pressing the user input 132 through the cover 136, the toothbrush 112 is activated and vibrates.
- the insert 148 is connected to the head 118 of the toothbrush 112, so that the first design element 152 moves relative to the stationary second design element 162 thereby producing a further visual effect.
- the mini-toothbrush 166 moves relative to and proximate the stationary oral cavity 156.
- this vibration produces a visual effect of the mini-toothbrush 166 moving towards the teeth 157 as shown by the arrow A.
- the mini-toothbrush 166 appears to moving within the oral cavity 157 and specifically brushing the teeth 157 in the oral cavity 159.
- This indicia 116 produces this active visual effect to effectively demonstrate use of the toothbrush 112.
- the visual effect (including the Moire effect may be designed and chosen so as to visually demonstrate and convey to a consumer the movement and vibration characteristics that may not otherwise be fully apparent to the consumer.
- the toothbrush 112 has specific movement, vibration and oscillation characteristics, Moiré patterns 20 are chosen such that a visual effect is apparent in the activated state as shown in FIG. 11 .
- the insert 148 including the second design element 162 and the mini-toothbrush 166 return to the position shown in FIG. 10 .
- FIGS. 12-24 disclose additional exemplary constructions of the package assembly of the present invention. These constructions generally have components similar to the package assemblies in FIGS. 1-13 and similar reference numerals will be used to designate similar components. These constructions also utilize indicia structured and configured to produce visual effects and include numerous variations as to the configurations of the respective package assemblies.
- FIGS. 12 and 13 disclose a packaging assembly 200 having a toothbrush 212, a package 214 and indicia 216.
- the indicia 216 include a first demonstration element 240 having a first marking 242 that is positioned on the base member 234.
- the indicia 216 also include an insert 248 having a second demonstration element 244 with a second marking 246 thereon.
- the insert 248 includes a cut-out portion 268 that is off-center on the insert 248.
- the demonstration elements 240, 244 have a generally square outer periphery but could have other shapes including a circular shape. Further, the markings 242, 246 are in the form of complimentary swirls or curved lines.
- the second demonstration element 244 is again attached to the head 218 wherein the cleaning member 226 is received in the cut-out portion 268 so as to frictionally engage the cleaning member 226.
- the toothbrush 212 is supported by the base member 234 and the cover 236 is attached to the base member 234.
- the second demonstration element 244 overlaps the first demonstration element 240 and produces a visual effect.
- the head 218 vibrates, oscillates, rotates or otherwise moves. Accordingly, the second demonstration element 244 moves relative to the first demonstration element 240 thereby providing additional visual effect.
- FIGS. 14 and 15 disclose a packaging assembly 300 having a toothbrush 312, a package 314 and indicia 316.
- the indicia 316 include a first demonstration element 340 having a first marking 342 that is positioned on the base member 334.
- the indicia 316 also include an insert 348 having a second demonstration element 344 with a second marking 346 thereon.
- the insert 348 includes a cut-out portion 368 that is generally centered on the insert 348.
- the demonstration elements 340, 344 have a generally oval outer periphery but could have other shapes as desired.
- the markings 342, 346 are in the form of complimentary swirls or curved lines.
- the second demonstration element 344 is again attached to the head 318 wherein the cleaning member 326 is received in the cut-out portion 368 so as to frictionally engage the cleaning member 326.
- the toothbrush 312 is supported by the base member 334 and the cover 336 is attached to the base member 334.
- the second demonstration element 344 overlaps the first demonstration element 340 and produces a visual effect.
- the head 318 vibrates. This vibration moves the second demonstration element 344 relative to the first demonstration element 340 thereby providing additional visual effect.
- FIGS. 16 and 17 disclose a packaging assembly 400 having a toothbrush 412, a package 414 and indicia 416.
- the indicia 416 include a first demonstration element 440 having a first marking 442 that is positioned on the base member 434.
- the indicia 416 also include an insert 448 having a second demonstration element 444 with a second marking 446 thereon.
- the second marking 446 is positioned on one segment 460 of the insert 448.
- An adjacent segment 462 has a plurality of folds defining an end leg 464.
- the markings 442, 446 are in the form of complimentary swirls or curved lines.
- the markings 442, 446 are similar in design to the markings in FIGS. 14 and 15 .
- the second demonstration element 444 is again attached to the head 418 wherein the end leg 464 is inserted and embedded into the cleaning member 426 and between the bristles 428.
- the toothbrush 412 is supported by the base member 434 and it is understood that a cover is attached to the base member 434.
- the second demonstration element 444 overlaps the first demonstration element 440 and produces a visual effect.
- the head 418 vibrates. This vibration moves the second demonstration element 444 relative to the first demonstration element 440 thereby providing additional visual effect.
- FIGS. 18 and 19 disclose another construction of a package assembly 500 having a toothbrush 512, a package 514 and indicia 516.
- the indicia 516 include similar elements as described above. In this construction, first indicia 516a are included on one side of the toothbrush 512 and second indicia 516b are included on the other side of the toothbrush 512. Nevertheless, the indicia can be on one side.
- the second demonstration element 544 is included on an insert 548.
- the insert 548 is folded along a length of the insert 548 to define a top panel 560 and side panels 562 that collectively define an insert cavity 570. Winged segments 564 extend from the side panels 562.
- the second demonstration elements 544 are positioned on the winged segments 564.
- the insert 548 is attached to the head 518 of the toothbrush 512 wherein the insert cavity 570 receives the cleaning member 526.
- the insert 548 can be removably attached to the head 518 such as at fold portions 572.
- the indicia 516 include the first demonstration elements 540 and the second demonstration elements 544 configured as described above in generally superimposed and overlapping fashion to produce a visual effect.
- the insert 548 moves thereby moving the second demonstration elements 544 relative to the first demonstration elements 540 to produce additional visual effect.
- FIGS. 20-23 illustrate further configurations of the package assembly of the present invention.
- the package assembly 600 includes an insert 648 having a central cut-out portion 660 that accommodates the head 618.
- the insert 648 is removably attached to the toothbrush 612.
- the insert has side panels 662 on opposite sides of the head 618 and the second demonstration element 644 thereon.
- the first demonstration elements 640 are positioned on the base 634 underneath the second demonstration elements 644.
- the base member 634 may also have a channel 670 formed therein that accommodates the toothbrush 612.
- the package assembly 700 shown in FIGS. 22 and 23 has structure similar to the package assembly 600 in FIGS. 20-21 .
- the insert 748 may include a plurality of stripes 760 on opposite sides of the head 718. It is understood that vibratory movement can be provided with the package assemblies 600, 700 in FIGS. 20-23 to produce visual effects as described above.
- FIG. 24 shows another package assembly 800 having an insert 848 configured similarly to the insert 548 in FIG.18 .
- the insert 848 can include a demonstration element 844 that could take the form of a dot design.
- the insert 848 can be constructed to have a plurality of particles housed therein. The particles are agitated upon activating the toothbrush 812 via the user input 832 thereby producing a visual effect.
- FIGS. 25 and 26 display additional patterns 1000,1100 having different visual illustration features that may be used with the package assemblies and oral care implement demonstration assemblies of the present invention.
- the patterns can provide a visual effect such a Moiré effect.
- Other visual effects can be provided that do not rely on a Moire effect, but may demonstrate features, traits or characteristics of the contained product.
- a visual effect can be produced by providing relative movement between the elements of patterns such as shown in FIGS. 25 and 26 .
- multiple visual effects can be produced simultaneously if desired such as when activating the user input 132 in FIG. 11 .
- the package assembly of the present invention can be utilized with a variety of contained products. An exemplary construction has been described herein taking the form of an oral care implement vibration demonstration assembly.
- the indicia is structured to produce a visual impact to a consumer viewing the package.
- the indicia can be further manipulated such as by providing relative movement between visual demonstration elements of the indicia, thus providing even greater impact and visual effect.
- the relative movement is achieved in response to a vibratory input to the contained product such as the toothbrush.
- the input could also take other forms to provide relative movement of the elements.
- user input 32,132, 232, 432, 532, 632 could be connected to a corresponding input device (e.g., button) provided off the toothbrush in a remote manner.
- the off-toothbrush button could be wired to the respective toothbrush to activate vibration aspect remotely.
- a point of display system could be used.
- the package assembly of the present invention demonstrates functionality of a contained product such as a powered toothbrush in a readily perceivable fashion.
- demonstrating use of the toothbrush is achieved by visually depicting a toothbrush moving proximate an oral cavity.
- This visual effect relates to the actual use environment of the toothbrush itself.
- Such an active demonstration provides enhanced package assembly features.
- the overall visual demonstration elements utilized provide a more dynamic visual impact for a consumer viewing the product in the package assembly.
Description
- The present invention relates to a package in general, and more particularly to a powered toothbrush package that visually demonstrates the functionality of a toothbrush. Consumers generally use various sensing capabilities including sight, sound and touch in making a determination as to the desirability of a product. However, at a point of purchase such as a retail location, products may not be completely accessible to a consumer because the products may be housed, contained or otherwise wrapped in packaging to protect against loss or damage.
- Furthermore, it is often difficult for consumers to understand and correlate how movement of a powered toothbrush head results in cleaning teeth. Hence, there is a need for product packaging and methods for demonstrating the functionality of a powered toothbrush to a consumer in an easily perceivable fashion.
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US 20060207901 describes a toothbrush package including a liquid filled demonstration feature for demonstrating toothbrush functionality.WO02101669 - The present invention provides a package according to claim 1.
- Optional features are recited in the dependent claims.
- Accordingly, the present invention provides product packaging that can effectively convey features, components and/or potential uses of a product to a potential consumer at a point of sale. Hence, consumers will often feel more comfortable purchasing a product that they have seen demonstrated in an illustrative use environment. With the principles of the present invention, conveyance of product attributes and demonstration of the use of the product is possible utilizing product packaging.
- Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the following drawings.
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FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a powered toothbrush package including features that may be present in embodiments of the present invention and that may take the form of an oral care implement demonstration assembly; -
FIG. 2 is an illustrative example of a Moiré pattern utilized in the present invention; -
FIG. 3 is an illustrative example of another Moiré pattern utilized in the present invention; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a toothbrush and components of a toothbrush package assembly including features that may be present in embodiments of the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the toothbrush and package assembly shown inFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 6 is an end view of the toothbrush and package assembly shown inFIG. 4 wherein the toothbrush is contained within the package; -
FIG. 7 is a front view of a construction of the present invention showing a toothbrush and components of a toothbrush package assembly; -
FIG. 8 is a base member of the toothbrush package assembly shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 9 is a movable element of the toothbrush package assembly shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 10 is a front view of the toothbrush and toothbrush package assembly shown inFIG. 7 that forms an oral care implement vibration demonstration assembly, the assembly being in a deactivated state; -
FIG. 11 is a front view of the assembly shown inFIG. 10 wherein the assembly is in an activated state to produce a visual effect; -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another construction of a toothbrush and package assembly of the present invention; -
FIG. 13 is an end view of the toothbrush and package assembly shown inFIG. 12 and including a cover; -
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another construction of a toothbrush and package assembly of the present invention; -
FIG. 15 is an end view of the toothbrush and package assembly shown inFIG. 14 and including a cover; -
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another construction of a toothbrush and package assembly of the present invention; -
FIG. 17 is an end view of the toothbrush and package assembly shown inFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another construction of a toothbrush and package assembly of the present invention; -
FIG. 19 is an end view of the toothbrush and package assembly shown inFIG. 18 ; -
FIG. 20 is a partial front view of another construction of a toothbrush and package assembly of the present invention; -
FIG. 21 is an end view of the toothbrush and package assembly ofFIG. 20 showing the toothbrush in a base member; -
FIG. 22 is a partial front view of another construction of a toothbrush and package assembly of the present invention; -
FIG. 23 is an end view of the toothbrush and package assembly ofFIG. 22 showing the toothbrush in a base member; -
FIG. 24 is a perspective view of another construction of a toothbrush and package assembly of the present invention; -
FIG. 25 shows a series of illustrative patterns that may be used in the toothbrush package assembly of the present invention; and -
FIG. 26 shows another series of illustrative patterns that may be used in the toothbrush package assembly of the present invention. - Several constructions of a package assembly are disclosed in
FIGS. 1-26 . The constructions may include oral care implements, such as toothbrushes, tongue cleaners and other related apparatus, which are typically displayed for purchase within product packaging. - In certain exemplary constructions such as shown in
FIG. 1 , the package assembly is used to contain a powered oral care implement such as a powered toothbrush. As described in greater detail below, the package assembly utilizes relative movement of indicia to provide unique visual features. It is understood that the principals of the present invention can also be used with various other types of products wherein the products utilize the indicia to provide visual effects. -
FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate a concept of superimposing a repetitive design (such as a grid of lines) on the same or a different design, to produce a pattern distinct from its separate component designs. An appearance of a new set of lines passing through the points where the original lines cross at small angles may be created so that the human eye is enabled to perceive a distortion or flickering of indicia, such as printed or displayed high-contrast images. InFIG. 2 for example, a first set of lines 1 is superimposed over a second set oflines 2. Similarly inFIG. 3 , a first set oflines 3 is superimposed over a second set oflines 4. It can be seen that the respective sets of lines inFIGS. 2 and 3 are in different forms. As is apparent fromFIGS. 2 and 3 , superimposition of these respective sets of lines creates a visual perception to the human eye. This visual perception or effect is commonly referred to as a Moiréeffect 5. Accordingly, each set oflines effect 5 may be referred to as a Moirépattern 6. The Moiréeffect 5 can occur when two or more sets of lines, dots or related structures differ in relative size, angle, spacing or the like. - In
FIG. 2 , the first set of lines 1 may be described as vertical lines in parallel, and the second set oflines 2 may be described as wavy lines. The first set of lines 1 is superimposed on the second set ofwavy lines 2. This contrast in curvature creates the visual Moiréeffect 5 as described. The Moiréeffect 5 is also created inFIG. 3 when two sets ofcurved lines lines FIG. 3 may generally be described as curved lines, the sets oflines lines effect 5 as is apparent when viewingFIG. 3 . It is understood that the respective sets oflines effects 5 as can be appreciated when viewingFIGS. 2 and 3 . It is further understood that other Moiréeffects 5 using other indicia in accordance with the present invention are possible, including other effects shown in the additional figures as described in greater detail below. - This described
Moiré effect 5 may in certain instances be generated in nature such as when an observer looks though a window screen and views another window screen or a background of a certain characteristic. TheMoiré effect 5 may also be purposely generated using photographic, graphical and/or electronic reproduction means as is well known in the art. - By causing and manipulating the
Moiré effect 5 and using other visualization principles and techniques, improved product packaging, demonstration and display is possible. Accordingly, preferred methods of demonstrating use of a product such as an oral care implement and preferred environments for demonstrating uses of the oral care implement are also possible. -
FIGS. 1 and4-6 generally disclose an exemplary construction of a package assembly including features that may be present in embodiments of the present invention, generally designated with thereference numeral 10. In certain constructions, thepackage assembly 10 may also be referenced as an oral care implementvibration demonstration assembly 10. As explained in greater detail below, thepackage assembly 10 includes a containedproduct 12 in the form of a powered oral care implement that may be in the form of a powered toothbrush, apackage 14 andindicia 16 operably associated with the containedproduct 12 and/or thepackage 14. Theindicia 16 can take many different forms including being included on additional members such as an insert or demonstration element as further described below. - As discussed, contained
product 12 is an oral care implement. The oral care implement may take the form of a powered toothbrush. Various powered toothbrushes are well known in the art, including battery powered toothbrushes. - The
powered toothbrush 12 includes ahead 18, abody 20 and aneck 22 connecting thehead 18 to thebody 20. Thehead 18 further includes abase support 24 and a cleaningmember 26 including a plurality of cleaningelements 28. Thecleaning elements 28 may include bristles or other known components used in cleaning the oral cavity. Thecleaning elements 28 may be made of various polymers, nylons and/or other well known materials commonly used to assist in cleaning of an oral cavity including the teeth, gums and tongue. Thebase support 24 serves as a supporting structure for thecleaning elements 28. In addition, thebase support 24 is configured to move thecleaning elements 28 in response to a user input provided to thetoothbrush 12 as described below. -
Powered toothbrushes 12 may include cleaningmembers 26 that rotate, vibrate, oscillate or translate. Thecleaning elements 28 may take the form of bristles such as in a standard toothbrush or bristles arranged on one or more rotating, vibrating, oscillating or translating components on thebase support 24 as is known in the art. Alternatively, the cleaningmember 26 such as the one shown inFIGS. 1 and4 may be vibrated or moved in one or more axial directions. Combinations of translation, vibration and/or rotation may also be implemented. - A powered drive mechanism and an associated power source are typically housed within the
body 20 of the oral care implement. For example, thetoothbrush 12 may be compatible with and/or utilize one or more of alkaline or various types of known rechargeable batteries 30 (FIG. 1 ) capable of powering thetoothbrush 12. A motor or other known power generating mechanism (not shown) is linked to the cleaningmember 26 and drives the cleaningmember 26 in various manners as discussed. Accordingly, the cleaningmember 26 may be rotated, vibrated, or oscillated for oral care instruments of varying types. The description of the movement capabilities of the oral care implement 12, including the movement characteristics of the cleaningmember 26 and thecleaning elements 28, is for illustration and convenience in a non- limiting manner. - The
body 20 and theneck 22 of the toothbrush may be formed from a unitary piece or multiple components. Thebase support 24 of thehead 18 may also be formed as part of aunitary toothbrush 12. A toothbrush grip may be part of thebody 20 and formed of a number of features and further may have a surface that improves the ability of the toothbrush to be gripped by human fingers. Grip enhancing elements may also be applied including grip regions and roughened or grooved surfaces. - As further shown in
FIGS. 1 and4 , auser input 32 in the form of a depressible button is utilized in turning thepowered toothbrush 12 to the "On" position and the "Off" position as is known. Theuser input 32 may include depressible buttons, switches, dials, slides, knobs and numerous other activation components that may be utilized to change the state of a device between the "On" and "Off" positions. - As further shown in
FIGS. 1 and4-6 , thepackage 14 is provided to contain thetoothbrush 12. Thepackage 14 can take various forms and generally has a housing to contain the product. Thepackage 14 includes abase member 34 and acover 36 in one exemplary construction. Thebase member 34 is a panel-like member and generally supports thetoothbrush 12 by serving as a backing member for thetoothbrush 12. Thebase member 34 may be formed of a number of shapes, dimensions and materials. In certain constructions, thebase member 34 may include a cutout for thetoothbrush 12 to permit tighter product packaging. - The
cover 36 of thepackage 14 is attached to thebase member 34 to house or contain thetoothbrush 12 in thepackage 14. Thecover 36 may be of a translucent or transparent material wherein a purchaser can view the contents or at least a portion of the contents without opening or damaging thepackage 14. As shown inFIGS. 4-6 , thecover 36 has anarched segment 38 to provide clearance to fit over the oral care implement 12 housed between thebase member 34 and thecover 36. Thecover 36 may take various specific shapes and configurations and may also be omitted from the product packaging. Thecover 36 may also house or support portions of theindicia 16 as described in greater detail below. Further, instructional and informational materials may also be housed within thepackage 14 such as between thebase member 34 and thecover 36 and particularly fit along an interior surface of thecover 36. - As can be appreciated from
FIGS. 4-6 , thetoothbrush 12 is contained within thepackage 14 and can be viewed by a consumer through thetransparent cover 36. As described in greater detail below, theindicia 16 may be operably associated with thepackage 14 including one or both of the base member 34 (in accordance with the invention of claim 1) and thecover 36. - As discussed, the
powered toothbrush package 10 further includes theindicia 16. For clarity, theindicia 16 are omitted fromFIG. 4 but are shown inFIG. 5 . Theindicia 16 can take many different forms and can be operably associated with various structures of thepackage assembly 10 including the base member 34 (in accordance with the invention of claim 1), thecover 36 and thetoothbrush 12 depending on the desired visual effect to be produced. As further shown inFIG. 5 , theindicia 16 may include afirst demonstration element 40 having afirst marking 42 and asecond demonstration element 44 having asecond marking 46. In this construction, thefirst demonstration element 40 is positioned on thecover 36 and in one preferred construction, this portion of theindicia 16 is printed directly onto thecover 36. Thisdemonstration element 40 may be considered a visualdemonstration reference element 40. Also, thesecond demonstration element 44 is included on a separate member which may be referred to as aninsert 48 as theinsert 48 is a separate member from the basic package components. Theinsert 48 may be considered avisual demonstration insert 48. Theinsert 48 has a generally planartop panel 50 having thesecond marking 46 thereon. Theinsert 48 further has a pair of dependingside panels 52. Theside panels 52 have an inward arcuate shape to facilitate attachment to thehead 18 as described in greater detail below. In this construction, thesecond demonstration element 44 is operably associated with thetoothbrush 12 and positioned beneath thefirst demonstration element 40. Thedemonstration elements package 14. As can be appreciated fromFIG. 5 , thefirst demonstration element 40 and thesecond demonstration element 44 havecomplementary markings markings indicia 16, however, may be any visually perceivable elements including sets of lines, dots, symbols designs, figures, graphical illustrations, pictures, symbols, colored elements, and specific Moiré markings or Moiré patterns. Theindicia 16 are structured to provide a visual effect to a consumer viewing thepackage assembly 10. - As shown in
FIGS. 5 and 6 , the individual components are attached to form thepackage assembly 10. As discussed with respect to this construction, thesecond demonstration element 44 is operably associated with thetoothbrush 12. In one exemplary configuration, theinsert 48 is connected to thetoothbrush 12 wherein theside panels 52 are attached to thehead 18 via an adhesive or other known attachment methods. Theinsert 48 is removably attached wherein a consumer can remove theinsert 48 after opening thepackage 14 after purchase. As shown inFIG. 6 , thetop panel 50 is positioned over the cleaningmember 26. Thetoothbrush 12 with the attachedsecond demonstration element 44 is then attached or otherwise supported by thebase member 34 of thepackage 14. Thecover 36 is then positioned over thetoothbrush 12 and attached to thebase member 34 by known attachment methods. As can be appreciated fromFIGS. 5 and 6 , thefirst demonstration element 40 with thefirst marking 42 is positioned over thesecond demonstration element 44 with thesecond marking 46. Thus, themarkings markings package assembly 10, an observer would perceive at least a portion of thedemonstration elements first marking 42 is complementary to thesecond marking 46, so that taken together, theelements package assembly 10. - An enhanced visual effect and visual demonstration can be provided by moving the
demonstration elements demonstration elements demonstration elements package 14 as a point of reference. Alternatively, bothdemonstration elements package 14, often in associated or complimentary fashion. - In one exemplary construction, a visual effect produced from relative motion relies on a user input provided to the
toothbrush 12 wherein thepackage assembly 10 may be referred to as an oral care implementvibration demonstration assembly 10. A consumer can press theuser input 32 through thecover 36 to activate or vibrate thetoothbrush 12. Vibration is one exemplary form of movement. Upon activation, thehead 18 and cleaningmember 26 vibrate and therefore move. Because thesecond demonstration element 44 is attached to thehead 18, thesecond demonstration element 44 also moves from the vibration. Thus, in response to the user input causing vibration, there is relative movement between thesecond demonstration element 44 and thefirst demonstration element 40. This relative movement between the components of theindicia 16 produces an active, dynamic visual effect to the consumer. In this configuration, thedemonstration elements first demonstration element 40 remains stationary, and this element is considered the visual demonstration reference element. This configuration could be reversed if desired wherein thefirst demonstration element 40 could be configured for movement while thesecond demonstration element 44 could become stationary as a reference element. It is also understood that bothdemonstration elements indicia 16 could also take the form of a single Moiré pattern (e.g.,FIGS. 2 and 3 ) that is operably associated with thepackage 14. Theindicia 16 in this form having overlapping designs could be printed on the base member 34 (in accordance with the invention of claim 1), or alternatively on thecover 36 to produce a visual effect for the viewer. -
FIGS. 7-11 disclose an exemplary construction of the present invention. The construction ofFIGS. 7-11 is similar to the construction ofFIGS. 4-6 and similar components will be designated using similar reference numerals in a 100 reference numeral series. As shown inFIG. 7 , apackage assembly 100 generally includes apowered toothbrush 112, apackage 114 andindicia 116 operably associated with thetoothbrush 112 and thepackage 114. As discussed, theindicia 116 can take many different forms and in this construction, theindicia 116 include additional features that produce further visual effects providing even greater impact to a viewer. - The
toothbrush 112 is substantially identical to thetoothbrush 12 ofFIGS. 4-5 and the above description is applicable to this construction. Likewise, thepackage 114 is similar to thepackage 14 ofFIGS. 4-6 and generally includes a housing formed by thebase member 134 and thecover 136. Thecover 136 is shaped and dimensioned to define acavity 137 that generally corresponds to the shape of thetoothbrush 112. As before, thecover 136 is generally transparent. -
FIGS. 7-9 further show theindicia 116 operably associated with thepackage assembly 100. Theindicia 116 are associated with thebase member 134 and thetoothbrush 112. As further shown inFIGS. 7 and8 , theindicia 116 includes afirst demonstration element 140 having afirst marking 142 and asecond demonstration element 144 having asecond marking 146. In this construction, thefirst demonstration element 140 is positioned on thebase member 134 and in one preferred construction, thisdemonstration element 140 is printed directly onto thebase member 134. Thisdemonstration element 140 may be considered a visualdemonstration reference element 140. In addition, thefirst demonstration element 140 includes afirst segment 150 and thefirst marking 142 includes afirst design element 152. As previously discussed, theindicia 116 can include many different elements. These elements can include visual illustrations including photographs, drawings, pictures, symbols, representations, color swaths, graphs and other designs. As further shown inFIGS. 7 and8 , thefirst demonstration element 140 also includes asecond segment 154 having a marking in the form of anoral cavity 156, specifically an open human mouth. Theoral cavity 156 includes a depiction ofteeth 157 and atongue 159. Theoral cavity 156 is printed directly onto thebase member 134. Theoral cavity 156 will cooperate with other demonstration elements as described in greater detail below. - The
indicia 116 also include thesecond demonstration element 144 as a separate member in the form of theinsert 148. Theinsert 148 may be considered avisual demonstration insert 148. Theinsert 148 in this construction is a generallyplanar member 148 having thesecond marking 146 thereon. Theinsert 148 is generally transparent or translucent. In addition, thesecond demonstration element 144 includes afirst segment 160 and thesecond marking 146 includes asecond design element 162. In addition, thesecond demonstration element 144 also includes asecond segment 164 having a marking in the form of a mini-toothbrush 166. The mini-toothbrush 166 will cooperate with theoral cavity 156 as described in greater detail below. The mini-toothbrush 166 may be integral with thedesign element 162. Theinsert 148 further includes a cut-outportion 168 dimensioned to receive the head 118 of thetoothbrush 112. In one construction, the cut-outportion 168 is generally hour-glass shaped. InFIG. 9 , the cut-out portion is represented by boundary lines. The cut-out portion is made through a part of thefirst design element 152. - As can be appreciated from
FIGS. 7-9 , thefirst design element 152 of thefirst demonstration element 140 and thesecond design element 162 of thesecond demonstration element 144 are generally complementary in shape. When thepackage assembly 100 is assembled, thedesign elements oral cavity 156 and mini-toothbrush 166 also complement one another. As discussed below, these various components of theindicia 116 cooperate to produce visual effects to a consumer viewing thepackage assembly 100. - As can be appreciated from
FIGS. 7 and10-11 , the individual components are attached to form thepackage assembly 100. Thesecond demonstration element 144 is attached to thetoothbrush 112 wherein the cleaningmember 126 is received by the cut-outportion 168 in an interference fit. Thetoothbrush 112 is generally attached or supported by thebase member 134. Thecover 136 is placed over thetoothbrush 112 and attached to thebase member 134, thetoothbrush 112 being received in thecavity 137 of thecover 136. It is noted that thecover 136 is not shown inFIGS. 10 and 11 . - As can be appreciated from
FIGS. 10 and 11 , thesecond demonstration element 144 is positioned over thefirst demonstration element 140. In particular, thesecond design element 162 overlaps thefirst design element 152 thereby producing a visual effect. The respective lines of the design elements may be considered to be Moiré designs that upon being placed in an overlapping fashion, provide a Moiré pattern. It is understood that the design elements 152,162 could be aligned or offset inFIG. 10 as desired. As further shown inFIG. 10 , the mini-toothbrush 166 is positioned proximate theoral cavity 156. It is further understood that inFIG. 10 , thetoothbrush 112 is in an inactivated state. - Similar to the previous construction, a further enhanced feature is provided that relies on the
user input 132. As shown inFIG. 11 , upon pressing theuser input 132 through thecover 136, thetoothbrush 112 is activated and vibrates. Theinsert 148 is connected to the head 118 of thetoothbrush 112, so that thefirst design element 152 moves relative to the stationarysecond design element 162 thereby producing a further visual effect. In addition, in response to the vibration, the mini-toothbrush 166 moves relative to and proximate the stationaryoral cavity 156. - In particular, this vibration produces a visual effect of the mini-toothbrush 166 moving towards the
teeth 157 as shown by the arrow A. Thus, when thetoothbrush 112 is activated, the mini-toothbrush 166 appears to moving within theoral cavity 157 and specifically brushing theteeth 157 in theoral cavity 159. Thisindicia 116 produces this active visual effect to effectively demonstrate use of thetoothbrush 112. As is done in this illustrative example, the visual effect (including the Moire effect may be designed and chosen so as to visually demonstrate and convey to a consumer the movement and vibration characteristics that may not otherwise be fully apparent to the consumer. Because thetoothbrush 112 has specific movement, vibration and oscillation characteristics,Moiré patterns 20 are chosen such that a visual effect is apparent in the activated state as shown inFIG. 11 . Upon placing thetoothbrush 112 in an inactivated state via theuser input 132, theinsert 148 including thesecond design element 162 and the mini-toothbrush 166 return to the position shown inFIG. 10 . -
FIGS. 12-24 disclose additional exemplary constructions of the package assembly of the present invention. These constructions generally have components similar to the package assemblies inFIGS. 1-13 and similar reference numerals will be used to designate similar components. These constructions also utilize indicia structured and configured to produce visual effects and include numerous variations as to the configurations of the respective package assemblies. -
FIGS. 12 and 13 disclose apackaging assembly 200 having atoothbrush 212, apackage 214 andindicia 216. Theindicia 216 include afirst demonstration element 240 having afirst marking 242 that is positioned on thebase member 234. Theindicia 216 also include aninsert 248 having asecond demonstration element 244 with asecond marking 246 thereon. Theinsert 248 includes a cut-outportion 268 that is off-center on theinsert 248. Thedemonstration elements markings second demonstration element 244 is again attached to thehead 218 wherein the cleaningmember 226 is received in the cut-outportion 268 so as to frictionally engage the cleaningmember 226. Thetoothbrush 212 is supported by thebase member 234 and thecover 236 is attached to thebase member 234. As shown, thesecond demonstration element 244 overlaps thefirst demonstration element 240 and produces a visual effect. In addition, in response to activating theuser input 232, thehead 218 vibrates, oscillates, rotates or otherwise moves. Accordingly, thesecond demonstration element 244 moves relative to thefirst demonstration element 240 thereby providing additional visual effect. -
FIGS. 14 and 15 disclose apackaging assembly 300 having atoothbrush 312, apackage 314 andindicia 316. Theindicia 316 include afirst demonstration element 340 having afirst marking 342 that is positioned on thebase member 334. Theindicia 316 also include aninsert 348 having asecond demonstration element 344 with asecond marking 346 thereon. Theinsert 348 includes a cut-outportion 368 that is generally centered on theinsert 348. Thedemonstration elements markings second demonstration element 344 is again attached to thehead 318 wherein the cleaningmember 326 is received in the cut-outportion 368 so as to frictionally engage the cleaningmember 326. Thetoothbrush 312 is supported by thebase member 334 and thecover 336 is attached to thebase member 334. As shown, thesecond demonstration element 344 overlaps thefirst demonstration element 340 and produces a visual effect. In addition, in response to activating the user input 332, thehead 318 vibrates. This vibration moves thesecond demonstration element 344 relative to thefirst demonstration element 340 thereby providing additional visual effect. -
FIGS. 16 and 17 disclose apackaging assembly 400 having atoothbrush 412, apackage 414 andindicia 416. Theindicia 416 include afirst demonstration element 440 having afirst marking 442 that is positioned on thebase member 434. Theindicia 416 also include aninsert 448 having asecond demonstration element 444 with asecond marking 446 thereon. Thesecond marking 446 is positioned on onesegment 460 of theinsert 448. Anadjacent segment 462 has a plurality of folds defining anend leg 464. Themarkings markings FIGS. 14 and 15 . Thesecond demonstration element 444 is again attached to thehead 418 wherein theend leg 464 is inserted and embedded into the cleaning member 426 and between thebristles 428. Thetoothbrush 412 is supported by thebase member 434 and it is understood that a cover is attached to thebase member 434. As shown, thesecond demonstration element 444 overlaps thefirst demonstration element 440 and produces a visual effect. In addition, in response to activating theuser input 432, thehead 418 vibrates. This vibration moves thesecond demonstration element 444 relative to thefirst demonstration element 440 thereby providing additional visual effect. -
FIGS. 18 and 19 disclose another construction of apackage assembly 500 having atoothbrush 512, apackage 514 andindicia 516. Theindicia 516 include similar elements as described above. In this construction, first indicia 516a are included on one side of thetoothbrush 512 and second indicia 516b are included on the other side of thetoothbrush 512. Nevertheless, the indicia can be on one side. Thesecond demonstration element 544 is included on aninsert 548. Theinsert 548 is folded along a length of theinsert 548 to define atop panel 560 andside panels 562 that collectively define aninsert cavity 570.Winged segments 564 extend from theside panels 562. Thesecond demonstration elements 544 are positioned on thewinged segments 564. Theinsert 548 is attached to thehead 518 of thetoothbrush 512 wherein theinsert cavity 570 receives the cleaning member 526. Theinsert 548 can be removably attached to thehead 518 such as atfold portions 572. It is understood that theindicia 516 include thefirst demonstration elements 540 and thesecond demonstration elements 544 configured as described above in generally superimposed and overlapping fashion to produce a visual effect. In addition, upon activation of thetoothbrush 512 by pressing theuser input 532, theinsert 548 moves thereby moving thesecond demonstration elements 544 relative to thefirst demonstration elements 540 to produce additional visual effect. -
FIGS. 20-23 illustrate further configurations of the package assembly of the present invention. InFIGS. 20-21 , thepackage assembly 600 includes aninsert 648 having a central cut-outportion 660 that accommodates thehead 618. Theinsert 648 is removably attached to thetoothbrush 612. The insert hasside panels 662 on opposite sides of thehead 618 and thesecond demonstration element 644 thereon. In addition, it is understood that thefirst demonstration elements 640 are positioned on thebase 634 underneath thesecond demonstration elements 644. As shown inFIG. 21 , thebase member 634 may also have achannel 670 formed therein that accommodates thetoothbrush 612. Thepackage assembly 700 shown inFIGS. 22 and 23 has structure similar to thepackage assembly 600 inFIGS. 20-21 . Theinsert 748 may include a plurality ofstripes 760 on opposite sides of thehead 718. It is understood that vibratory movement can be provided with thepackage assemblies FIGS. 20-23 to produce visual effects as described above.FIG. 24 shows anotherpackage assembly 800 having aninsert 848 configured similarly to theinsert 548 inFIG.18 . Theinsert 848 can include ademonstration element 844 that could take the form of a dot design. Alternatively, theinsert 848 can be constructed to have a plurality of particles housed therein. The particles are agitated upon activating thetoothbrush 812 via theuser input 832 thereby producing a visual effect. -
FIGS. 25 and 26 displayadditional patterns FIGS. 25 and 26 . It is further understood that multiple visual effects can be produced simultaneously if desired such as when activating theuser input 132 inFIG. 11 . It is also understood that the package assembly of the present invention can be utilized with a variety of contained products. An exemplary construction has been described herein taking the form of an oral care implement vibration demonstration assembly. A toothbrush has been used by way of example, but it is understood that the package assembly could be used with a variety of different types of oral care implements. The indicia is structured to produce a visual impact to a consumer viewing the package. The indicia can be further manipulated such as by providing relative movement between visual demonstration elements of the indicia, thus providing even greater impact and visual effect. - In one construction, the relative movement is achieved in response to a vibratory input to the contained product such as the toothbrush. The input could also take other forms to provide relative movement of the elements. For example, user input 32,132, 232, 432, 532, 632 could be connected to a corresponding input device (e.g., button) provided off the toothbrush in a remote manner. The off-toothbrush button could be wired to the respective toothbrush to activate vibration aspect remotely. In one example, a point of display system could be used. In addition, it is understood that the various features of the several different constructions disclosed can be combined.
- The package assembly of the present invention demonstrates functionality of a contained product such as a powered toothbrush in a readily perceivable fashion. In addition, with the particular indicia used, demonstrating use of the toothbrush is achieved by visually depicting a toothbrush moving proximate an oral cavity. Thus, this visual effect relates to the actual use environment of the toothbrush itself. Such an active demonstration provides enhanced package assembly features. The overall visual demonstration elements utilized provide a more dynamic visual impact for a consumer viewing the product in the package assembly.
- While the invention has been described with respect to specific examples including presently preferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of the above described systems and techniques. Thus, the scope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims.
Claims (15)
- A package (100) comprising:a housing (134,136) containing a powered oral care implement (112);an indicia (116) operably associated with the housing, the indicia having:a first element (140) containing a marking (142) forming a first pattern on a base member (134) of the housing (134, 136), and characterised by:a second element (144) containing a marking (146) forming a second pattern on a second member (148) detachably mounted to a portion of the powered oral care implement (112) for movement independent of the housing (134,136), the second member and second pattern being movable with respect to the base member and first pattern,wherein relative movement between the first and second elements (140,144) causes the first and second markings (142,146) to produce a visual effect to a viewer.
- The package (100) of claim 1 wherein the relative movement of the markings (142,146) is provided by an input provided by activating the powered oral care implement (112) contained by the housing (134,136).
- The package (100) of claim 1 wherein the second pattern (146) is maintained during movement of the second member (148).
- The package (100) of claim 1, wherein the relative movement of the markings (142,146) is provided by a vibratory input provided by vibration of the portion of the powered oral care implement (112) contained by the housing (134,136).
- The package (100) of claim 1, wherein the relative movement of the markings (142,146) causes the markings to produce a visual effect taking the form of motion.
- The package (100) of claim 1 wherein the second member (148) is a transparent insert mounted on the powered oral care implement (112), such that a cleaning element of the powered oral care implement projects through the insert, the insert being contained by the housing (134,136) for movement with cleaning elements of the powered oral care implement.
- The package (100) of claim 6 wherein the first element (140) is permanently affixed on the base member (134) and the second element (144) is permanently affixed on the second member (148).
- The package (100) of claim 6, wherein the visual effect is viewable through a cover (136) of the housing (134,136).
- The package (100) of claim 1 wherein the first element (140) is in the form of an oral cavity image (156) and the second element (144) is in the form of a toothbrush image (166) wherein the visual effect produced from the relative movement between the first and second elements (140,144) is the toothbrush image moving proximate the oral cavity image.
- The package (100) of claim 9 wherein the toothbrush image (166) overlays the oral cavity image (136).
- The package (100) of claim 1 wherein the second member (148) has an opening (168) adapted to receive a portion of the powered oral care implement (112).
- The package (100) of claim 1 wherein the indicia (116) further comprises a third demonstration element (134) on the base member (154) and a fourth demonstration element (164) mounted on the product (112) such that in response to a vibratory input provided by the powered oral care implement, the fourth demonstration element moves relative to the third demonstration element to produce a second visual effect.
- The package (100) of claim 12 wherein the fourth demonstration element (164) is integral with the second demonstration element (144).
- The package (100) of claim 1 wherein the first pattern (142) comprises a first set of lines and the second pattern (146) comprises a second set of lines superimposed over the first set of lines when the second member (148) is positioned to overlap the base member (134).
- The package (100) of claim 14 wherein the visual effect is a Moiré effect.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2008/057466 WO2009116997A1 (en) | 2008-03-19 | 2008-03-19 | Powered toothbrush package |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2276678A1 EP2276678A1 (en) | 2011-01-26 |
EP2276678B1 true EP2276678B1 (en) | 2015-12-02 |
Family
ID=39865712
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP08732459.6A Not-in-force EP2276678B1 (en) | 2008-03-19 | 2008-03-19 | Powered toothbrush package |
Country Status (8)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP2276678B1 (en) |
KR (1) | KR101205071B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN101977824B (en) |
AU (1) | AU2008352981B2 (en) |
BR (1) | BRPI0822258A2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2713160C (en) |
TW (1) | TWI372129B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2009116997A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CA2832274A1 (en) | 2011-04-08 | 2012-10-11 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care kit including visible sticker panel |
CA2834470A1 (en) | 2011-05-27 | 2012-12-06 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care kit for displaying a portion of a toothbrush |
TW201332857A (en) * | 2011-12-16 | 2013-08-16 | Colgate Palmolive Co | Packaged oral care implement |
WO2013168060A1 (en) * | 2012-05-08 | 2013-11-14 | Braun Gmbh | Powered oral care device package |
WO2015191070A1 (en) * | 2014-06-12 | 2015-12-17 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | System of packaged oral care implements |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5525383A (en) * | 1993-03-09 | 1996-06-11 | Witkowski; Daniel D. | Container for diplaying transitory moving images |
US6819775B2 (en) * | 1996-07-05 | 2004-11-16 | ECOLE POLYTECHNIQUE FéDéRALE DE LAUSANNE | Authentication of documents and valuable articles by using moire intensity profiles |
AUPO289296A0 (en) * | 1996-10-10 | 1996-10-31 | Securency Pty Ltd | Self-verifying security documents |
CN101137553B (en) * | 2005-03-07 | 2010-06-02 | 高露洁-棕榄公司 | Demonstration package and method |
US7416081B2 (en) * | 2005-03-07 | 2008-08-26 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Power toothbrush demonstration package |
JP2007030967A (en) * | 2005-07-29 | 2007-02-08 | Yoshino Kogyosho Co Ltd | Method of decorating container product |
-
2008
- 2008-03-19 BR BRPI0822258-4A patent/BRPI0822258A2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2008-03-19 CA CA2713160A patent/CA2713160C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2008-03-19 EP EP08732459.6A patent/EP2276678B1/en not_active Not-in-force
- 2008-03-19 KR KR1020107018398A patent/KR101205071B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2008-03-19 WO PCT/US2008/057466 patent/WO2009116997A1/en active Application Filing
- 2008-03-19 CN CN200880128167.9A patent/CN101977824B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2008-03-19 AU AU2008352981A patent/AU2008352981B2/en not_active Ceased
-
2009
- 2009-03-18 TW TW098108776A patent/TWI372129B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
TWI372129B (en) | 2012-09-11 |
CA2713160A1 (en) | 2009-09-24 |
CN101977824A (en) | 2011-02-16 |
EP2276678A1 (en) | 2011-01-26 |
WO2009116997A1 (en) | 2009-09-24 |
AU2008352981A1 (en) | 2009-09-24 |
KR20100107502A (en) | 2010-10-05 |
KR101205071B1 (en) | 2012-11-26 |
AU2008352981B2 (en) | 2011-09-01 |
TW200948680A (en) | 2009-12-01 |
CA2713160C (en) | 2013-07-23 |
CN101977824B (en) | 2015-06-17 |
BRPI0822258A2 (en) | 2015-06-23 |
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