JP2006504593A - Multifunctional compact with storage receptacle - Google Patents

Abstract

A container comprising one or more receptacles with trays (100, 110) formed attached to panels (3, 5).

Description

  The present invention relates to a container attached to a container, and more particularly to a hinged panel.

  Consumer products have traditionally been sold in containers of various shapes, sizes and configurations. The manufacturer desires to package the product in a manner that protects the product, often allows easy access to the product, and provides a printable surface. One problem faced by manufacturers is that containers that are strong enough to protect the product are made from a substrate with a configuration that does not give a printable surface. Thus, it can be appreciated that it would be useful to have a container for receiving multiple types of articles, from a single article to a composite type of material such as cosmetics. It can further be appreciated that it would be useful to have a container that provides easy access to the product. It can further be appreciated that it would be useful to have a container that protects the product while providing a printable surface area.

  Products are placed in containers using various packaging techniques. Cosmetics have been traditionally packaged and stored in a manner that must take into account the need to preserve the material stored from quality degradation while providing the package contents to consumers in an aesthetically pleasing manner. It was. At the same time, manufacturing costs are required to be economical. Another desirable feature is that it should be versatile enough to serve as a container for various types of cosmetic formulations and other materials. Regarding packaging of cosmetic preparations that are packaged in a compacted compact, "thermal preparation", which means a cosmetic ingredient that is heated during packaging and poured into a container in a fluid state and then allowed to cool, And what is known as a “cold formulation”, meaning a fluid or solid component that is not heated during packaging, may be desirable to package directly in the same container. This method of double wrapping has not previously been possible because the various elements of the compact molded to be able to be filled by different processes could not be separated.

  The container comprises at least one tray secured to the substrate. The substrate can be folded or grooved, or a combination thereof to form at least two panels. At least one tray is secured to at least one surface of the substrate. In one embodiment, the container comprises a first tray secured to the first substrate panel. The second tray is fixed to the second substrate panel. The hinge means fixes the first substrate panel to the second substrate panel. The second tray is aligned and formed to at least partially cover a portion of the first tray when the container is in the closed position.

  The container comprises at least one tray secured to the substrate. The substrate can be folded or grooved, or a combination thereof to form at least two panels. At least one tray is secured to at least one surface of the substrate. In one embodiment, the container comprises a first tray secured to the first substrate panel. The second tray is fixed to the second substrate panel. The hinge means fixes the first substrate panel to the second substrate panel. The second tray is aligned and formed to at least partially cover a portion of the first tray when the container is in the closed position.

  However, it has now been found that packages suitable for containing cosmetic formulations for storage and display can be constructed according to the present invention. Although the package is generally considered to be applicable to packaging cosmetic formulations, it may be used to include a variety of materials, including components, solid materials or separate articles, and as a specific application reference. The description should not be considered limiting.

  Packages typically include an outer cover formed on a front panel, rear panel and hinge panel from a flexible or bendable substrate formed by folding or scoring or a combination thereof. The outer cover has an inner surface and an outer surface. The flexible substrate can be any material that is angled for the outer cover and can be easily folded to give a box-like shape. Accordingly, the substrate may be selected from the group consisting of cardboard, synthetic and cardboard, cardboard cardboard, foldable textile laminate, other laminates, and various combinations thereof. A preferred substrate is cardboard, the basis weight of which can vary depending on the package dimensions and intended final weight. For example, solid bleached sulfate (SBS) coated on one or both sides (C1S or C2S, respectively) may be used. The flexible substrate can include a material that imparts certain desired properties to the package. For example, the barrier material may be used to cover one or both sides of the cardboard material that provides a substrate that prevents odor or fragrance transfer from one or the package contents to the outside.

  The surface of the cover may be printed with text, graphics or other suitable images. Printing can be done by any available method. Mirror panels can also be printed on one or more surfaces using metal powder ink.

  In one aspect of the invention, the outer cover may comprise a foldable extension from any free edge thereof. This extension may be dimensioned to be the same dimensions as the front or rear panel. In a preferred embodiment, the foldable extension is provided at the outer edge of the front panel and is folded inward toward the interior of the package to provide a panel that is twice the thickness of the front panel. . The foldable extension can also carry a printed design, color or information, and allows these additional features to be introduced inside the package without the need for duplex printing.

  In yet another aspect, the foldable extension of the front panel of the outer cover may itself fold into one or more panels that provide a closure means when folded around the outside of the rear panel. In this respect, the foldable extension is in a panel corresponding to the dimensions of the hinge panel of the outer cover and in a closing flap correspondingly overlying at least part of the rear panel and having its free edge. Folded. The free edge of the closure flap may terminate in a tab formed to engage a slit formed in the rear panel that provides a closure means.

  The formed plastic tray is secured to one or more of the surfaces of the outer cover. The attachment means may be an adhesive or an adhesive such as a hot melt polymer.

  Alternatively, the tray can be held in place against the cover by mechanical means. The tray comprises one or more receptacles of any suitable shape. Generally, the receptacle is in the form of a rounded recess that can be sized to receive a pan, which is an insert that holds the product, for direct filling with the product being packaged. Since both formulations are packaged in this way in a single package, the ability of the package to be configured to hold a bread each containing a hot or cold cosmetic formulation is a particular advantage of the present invention. The plastic tray is constructed of any plastic material that can be molded, for example, by injection molding or other suitable means. Transparent, opaque, colored or optically modified plastic materials are equally suitable.

  The plastic tray includes one or more receptacles that are shaped and dimensioned to receive the product to be packaged. For example, a single receptacle can be included to hold a compacted cosmetic product, or a single receptacle can be shaped to hold a compact disc. Two receptacles may be incorporated into the plastic trays of other embodiments so that complementary cosmetic shades or other products that are desirably packaged together may be included in the same package. In another aspect of the invention, the receptacle is hermetically sealed to protect its filling contents by either attaching a protective film to its edge or attaching a cover to the receptacle to provide a closure means. Can do. The cover can be fully removable or can be attached to the receptacle by a hinged connection that is configured to open and close in the tensioned position when the cover engages the top of the receptacle. .

  Each receptacle may be configured to hold a cassette carrying a product. This configuration allows cassettes to be selected and inserted into the receptacles of each package, thus making the package usable for different product combinations or allowing the package to be customized at a point of sale (POS). To do.

  In one aspect, the present invention is an outer cover formed of a flexible substrate and comprising a front panel, a rear panel, and a hinge panel, wherein each of the front panel and the rear panel includes an outer edge and a hinge panel. Forming plastic trays located on opposite sides of said outer cover with inner and outer surfaces, each having either a front panel or a rear panel. Attached to one of the inner surfaces and spatially opposite the corresponding formed plastic tray attached to the other panel, each against the outer edge of either the front panel or the rear panel Each of the plastic forming trays further including one or more receptacles formed therein, the outer trays having correspondingly oriented outer edges, and engaging the trays Comprising a package comprising a locking element consisting of the engaging elements corresponding provide reliable closure of the package, to when. The engagement element is preferably integrally formed with a plastic tray, but this is not necessarily so.

  In one preferred embodiment, the package comprises two oppositely formed plastic trays. Opposite plastic trays may be further formed to form a recessed area, each at or near its outer edge. This gives an access area for opening the package. Preferably, when the oppositely disposed plastic trays are folded toward each other to close the package, the recessed area is located on the opposite side so that the access area for opening the package is defined by the front panel and the rear panel. Formed on the outer edge of the tray.

  In another aspect, the oppositely formed plastic trays may be configured to form a recessed area in the center of each tray. The centrally facing recessed area is positioned on opposite sides to abut each other when the package is closed, forming a cavity in which the insert can be placed.

  In another preferred embodiment, at least one of the formed plastic trays further includes an extension formed along a portion of its outer edge such that the extension projects beyond the outer edge of the outer cover. Including. This extension provides gripping means for opening and closing the package and protects the outer edge of the outer cover from abrasion. In certain embodiments, the extended region may be formed along the entire length of the outer edge of the formed plastic tray. In other embodiments, it may be configured as one or more rigid tabs formed along only a portion of the length of the outer edge of the formed plastic tray.

  The formed plastic tray preferably comprises an engagement element formed integrally with the tray structure. In this regard, any engagement means that can be configured by a forming process is contemplated herein. Non-limiting examples of corresponding engagement elements that may be selected are ridges and grooves, nails and sockets, hooks and retainers, adhesive fabric parts, or grommets formed on at least a portion of the outer periphery of the tray. . In certain preferred embodiments, the corresponding engaging elements are nails and sockets or crosspieces that are correspondingly molded by a plastic tray formed in an injection molding process. The nail is preferably formed to have a slightly larger diameter than the socket at the bottom end. The engagement of the nail into the socket preferably closes the package by applying some pressure to insert the drooping end.

  The package of the present invention may incorporate electronic devices such as electronic article surveillance (EAS) tags, antennas, electronic security devices, or any combination thereof. One or more of these elements can be affixed or printed on any surface of the package.

  In another embodiment providing both a security means for detecting tampering as well as a display device for the package contents, the outer cover may include one or more cutouts in either or both of the front and / or rear panels. The cutout may be located on a region on the receptacle that provides, for example, a compact disc or a clear view of the product. The cutout can be covered by a transparent film on either the inner surface or the outer surface of the outer cover. For example, the transparent material can be secured around the edge of the cutout on the inner or outer surface of the outer cover, or the entire package can be wrapped with a transparent film.

  The various packaging embodiments of the present invention provide versatile, flexible and lightweight modes of packaging that are also economical to manufacture. Consumers, usually high-volume retailers, are also provided with greater ability to customize packaging without requiring the production of a new lot of packaging. For example, the present invention may allow a retailer to insert or remove cassettes containing various colors and mixes of products into individual packages and provide consumers with uniquely prepared packages that carry the manufacturer's trademark. The cosmetic packaging can be customized with POS. The same benefits will arise if the packaging is used in other retail markets such as the compact disc or digital video disc market.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the multifunction compact according to the present invention includes a first formed plastic tray 100, a second formed plastic tray 111, and an outer cover 1 composed of a cardboard substrate. The first formed plastic tray 100 includes a collar region 101 and a receptacle 104 formed as a recess therein. The first formed plastic tray 100 includes an upstanding side wall 112 and a front wall 114 formed perpendicular to the upstanding side wall 112. The first formed plastic tray 101 is beveled corresponding to a beveled edge 118 extending along each of the side walls 112 and extending along at least a portion of the front wall 114. It further includes a closed edge 117. The front wall 114 further comprises a recessed edge 103 that forms a recessed area 110 that provides an access area for the locking element and assists in opening the tray. The first formed plastic tray 101 includes an extension 102 that extends along the entire length of its outer edge. The recessed area 110 includes a socket 105 that serves as an engagement element that closes the package.

  The outer cover 1 of the package according to this embodiment of the present invention comprises a front panel 3, a hinge panel 4 and a rear panel 5 made of cardboard material such as C1S paperboard. As shown in FIG. 1, the first formed plastic tray 100 is fixed to the inside of the rear panel 5 by an adhesive means such as an adhesive or hot melt, and the second formed plastic tray is fixed to the inside of the front panel 3. Is done. The package configured as shown in FIG. 2 includes an adhesiveless hinge panel 4 that provides the desired flexibility to allow repeated folding and closing of the die.

  The second formed plastic tray 111 includes a panel region 106 surrounded by a side wall 107, a front wall 114, and a rear wall 116. The front wall 114 further includes an extension 108 thereof. The second formed plastic tray 111 includes raised portions 115 and 119 formed on the side wall 107 and the front wall 114, respectively.

  The recessed area 103 of the first formed plastic tray 100 corresponds in arrangement to the extended portion 108 formed in the second formed plastic tray 111. The first forming tray 100 and the second forming tray 111 are closed and fixed together, whereby an engaging element for closing the package is formed as a nail 109 formed in the extended portion 108. These dowels are arranged to cooperate correspondingly with the socket 105 in the recessed area 110.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the second formed plastic tray 111 further includes an extension 120 that extends along the entire length of its outermost edge.

  To close the package, the extensions 115 and 119 are pulled downward over the beveled edges 117, 118 of the first formed plastic tray 100. The extension 108 descends over the recessed area 110 and the dowel 109 fitted in the socket 105. A closed package showing the exposed printable outer cover surface formed by panel 3 is depicted in FIG.

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the internal aspect of the package showing the depth of the receptacle 14 with respect to the collar region 101 of the first formed plastic tray 100.

  Another embodiment of the present invention showing a compact with a single receptacle is illustrated in FIGS. FIG. 6 also shows another closure element. The package of this embodiment includes a first formed plastic tray 200 and an outer cover 6. The first formed plastic tray 200 includes a collar area 201, a receptacle 204 inserted into the collar area, a side wall 215, and a front wall 216. The front wall 216 includes a beveled edge 214 having slots 203 disposed therein at a predetermined interval and an extension 202 extending along the length of the outer edge. Prepare. The opening of the receptacle 204 is surrounded by a bib 208 that is recessed with respect to the plane of the collar region 201. The second formed plastic tray 211 includes a panel region 206, a side wall 207, a front wall 217, and a rear wall 218. The front wall 217 includes an extension portion 202 that protrudes along the length thereof, and tabs 205 that are arranged at predetermined intervals along the length. The tab cooperates with the slot 203 of the first formed plastic tray 200. The closure mechanism of the package of FIGS. 6-7 is engaged by inserting the tab 205 into the slot 203.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the closed package of this embodiment is formed with an extension 202 that extends beyond the outer edge of the cardboard cover. In this way, the cover is provided with a protection portion, and a gripping portion for separating the first formation tray 200 and the second formation tray 211 is also provided.

  FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing the arrangement of the first formed plastic tray 200 and the second formed plastic tray 211 with respect to the outer cover 6. The outer cover 6 is divided into a front panel 3, a hinge panel 4, and a rear panel 5 by a broken line. The first formed plastic tray 200 is injection molded to include a post 209 that provides structural support for the collar region 201 and the receptacle 204. FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the inverted package.

  FIG. 10 represents the fully configured, laterally opened package of FIGS.

  FIG. 11 gives a perspective view by package. In order to accommodate the desired product, the receptacle 204 is molded to have a sufficient depth, as provided by the outer receptacle wall 210. Desirably, the height of the receptacle wall 210 is approximately equivalent to the height of the post 209, as shown. The receptacle wall 210 provides additional support for the collar region 201 and the faucet 208 of the first formed plastic tray 200.

  FIG. 12 provides a flat end view of another embodiment of the present invention showing the relative height and placement of the receptacle wall 210 and post 209 in this embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment of the invention, each of the front panel 3 and the rear panel 5 has its outer edge at a predetermined distance from the back of the outer edge formed by the extension 202 located in each of the formed plastic trays 200 and 211. Cut from blanks that terminate at the edges. Accordingly, the extension portions 202 protrude beyond the outer edges of the front panel 3 and the rear panel 5, respectively. The advantage of this configuration is that the user can grip the extension 202. This extension has a rigid plastic construction and pulls and releases the engagement means without having to be gripped or otherwise handled, thus the cardboard part is less susceptible to handling damage.

  FIG. 13 provides a cross section of the package end face showing the engagement means. As shown, the front wall 217 of the second formed plastic tray 211 is molded on the side facing the interior to form a protruding tab 205. Also, the front wall 216 of the first formed plastic tray 200 is molded on the exterior facing side to form the slot 203. Tab 205 engages cooperatively within slot 203. Preferably, the tab 205 has an end configured slightly larger than the opening of the slot 203. As a result, the insertion of the tab 205 requires the application of pressure to insert the enlarged end into the slot 203. Similarly, pulling out the tab 205 requires applying a certain force to remove the tab from the opening of the slot 203. As shown in FIG. 13, a cavity 219 is formed between the first formed plastic tray 200 and the second formed plastic tray 211. The cavity 219 is formed by increasing the depth of the collar area 201 and the flat area 206 relative to the side walls 207, 215 and the front and rear walls 216, 217 and 218, 220. The cavity 219 is useful for containing inserts, product samples or other appropriately sized articles.

  FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a second formed plastic tray 211 according to the present invention comprising a ridge 212 around the inside of the tray that abuts the corner formed by the side wall 207, the front wall 217, and the rear wall 218. FIG. When the second formed plastic tray 211 is placed on the first formed plastic tray 200, the raised portions 212 extend longitudinally on the side walls 215, the front wall 216, and the top edge of the rear wall of the first formed plastic tray 200. Extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction. Correspondingly, as shown in FIG. 15, the top edge of the aforementioned wall of the first formed plastic tray 200 is beveled to form a groove 213 around the tray, and the two trays are The ridge 212 fits snugly in this groove when mated together.

  FIG. 16 shows the underside of a molded plastic tray 200 according to the present invention showing the molded post 209, the receptacle wall 210 and, in particular, the formation of the groove 213 along the side wall 207. FIG. As shown in FIG. 16 in the drawings, the grooves and corresponding ridges represented by elements 213 and 212 are discontinuous and along some walls rather than around the entire circumference of the formed plastic tray. Can only extend.

  FIG. 17 shows an embodiment of the invention in which the flat area 206 of the second formed plastic tray 211 is configured as a specular element by applying a layer of metal ink. A metal foil can also be laminated on the surface to give the same effect. Alternatively, an actual mirror can be inserted. This latter option is within the scope of the present invention but is undesirable due to the substantial increase in package weight associated with the use of glass elements. As shown in FIG. 18, the compact of the present invention may also include an insert or applicator such as a pad or sponge. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 19, the insert may be a booklet or a folded print.

  It should also be noted that the compact of the present invention is suitable for storage, transportation and commercialization of materials other than cosmetics. Accordingly, the package of FIG. 19 may be modified by incorporating conventional holding means into the collar area 201 and receptacle 204 for accommodating CDs or DVDs of varying shape or size.

  Yet another embodiment of the present invention is depicted in FIG. In this embodiment, the cutout portion 12 is included in the front panel 3 so that the inside of the package can be seen from the outside, for example, in order to see the product contained in the cutout portion, and is useful as a display mechanism. It is. In other embodiments, multiple cutouts may be incorporated. Also, overall, the cutout can be located on the front panel or rear panel of the cover. In FIG. 20, the transparent film is fixed on the cutout portion 12. Similar films or barrier materials can also be secured to the exterior of the package. Alternatively, the same protective effect can be achieved by partially covering the compact with film material.

  Yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. According to this embodiment, the single formed plastic tray 300 is covered by a cover 305. The cover 305 is molded integrally with the formed plastic tray 300. However, it is also understood that the cover can be configured separately and then removably secured to the formed plastic tray 300. The formed plastic tray 300 includes a recessed area 303 that allows a finger to enter the front wall 302 to remove the cover 305. A corresponding recess area 309 is placed in the collar area 304 of the formed plastic tray 300, which is placed close to the recess area 303. The cover 305 bifurcates into a flap that covers each of the receptacles 314 (shown in FIG. 21), and each flap includes a collar region 306 and a cutout 307. The flap of the cover 305 is dimensioned to snap fit onto the receptacle 314 to provide a tight closure and thus accommodate the product within the receptacle without the need for a corresponding molded plastic tray. In this embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 22, the cover 305 is molded integrally with the formed plastic tray 300 during the injection molding process. The die is configured so that the cover 305 is formed at a position where the die is opened and no tension is applied, and the cover is foldably connected to the edge of the formed plastic tray 300 by an integral hinge 308. The underside of the formed plastic tray 300 and cover 305 is shown in FIG. The receptacle 314 is molded with a wall 315 that provides structural support for the collar region 304. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 21 to 26, the cutout 307 is covered with a film material that protects the receptacle contents. In other embodiments, these cutouts can be removed from the package structure and can instead be replaced with a single molded flap of opaque or transparent material.

  In general, in such package embodiments, the cover 305 provides the primary closure means, although other closure means may be incorporated. As shown in FIG. 24, the foldably connected cover panels 310, 311, 312, 314, and 315 are divided by crease lines to form a cover that partially covers the formed plastic tray 300. Panel 312 terminates at a tab 316 corresponding to insertion into a slot 317 formed in panel 310. Therefore, when the cover panel is folded onto the forming plastic tray 300, the hinge panel 314 is placed on the rear wall (not shown) of the forming plastic tray 300. Also, the panel 312 partially covers the panel 301 when the tab 316 is inserted into the slot 317.

  In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 25-26, a bendable substrate is folded under a foldably divided panel 311 secured to the underside of the formed plastic tray 300, and directly beneath the panel 311. And a panel 312 that can be secured to the panel 311 by any suitable means. The crease line between the panel 311 and the panel 312 may also be perforated to allow the user to remove the panel 312.

  Another compact comprising the single receptacle 410 and the cover 405 hinged to the plastic tray 400 formed by an integral hinge 406 is represented by the embodiment of FIG. The formed plastic tray 400 includes a rectangular receptacle 410 and recessed areas 403, 409 that create entry points. The cover 405 has a spherical shape as a whole and includes a rim 413 fitted into the groove 414. The cover 405 includes a cutout 412 that forms a window for viewing the inside of the package. A panel 411 made of a flexible substrate is positioned below and secured to the formed plastic tray 400.

  The present invention can package packaging methods, and more particularly, heated and cooled formulations in the same package. In this method, first, a package comprising an outer cover made of a flexible substrate, which includes at least a front panel, a rear panel, and a hinge panel, and the hinge panel is interposed between the front panel and the rear panel. Forming a plastic tray attached to the inner surface of the outer cover and including one or more receptacles. Subsequently, either a heated or cooled cosmetic formulation can be filled into one or more receptacles of the formed plastic tray. In this manner, the receptacle on one tray can be filled with the heated formulation while the corresponding formed plastic tray can be filled with the cooled formulation. Alternatively, either heated or cooled cosmetic preparations can be filled into one or more cassettes that are sized to fit snugly within the receptacle. The order of filling the heated or non-heated formulation is not important. A filling cassette containing a heated or cooled formulation can be placed in one or more receptacles immediately after filling. Advantageously, the claimed invention of the present invention provides a means for packaging heated and cooled formulations in the same package. This is not possible when these formulations are filled directly into a fully molded compact receptacle. Here, the contents cannot be filled in a selective and efficient manner. While the present invention includes many other embodiments that may not be described in detail herein, it is nevertheless believed that one of ordinary skill in the art will understand the disclosed matter.

  Accordingly, this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the above-described examples only or to the preferred embodiments. 1-5 illustrate an exemplary container according to the present invention. The container will be exemplarily described by the first tray 100 and the second tray 111. The two trays 100 and 111 are fixed to each other by the substrates 3, 4 and 5. The substrate will be exemplarily described by the first panel 3, the hinge panel 4, and the second panel 5. It should be understood that the tray and substrate can be constructed of any suitable material and shaped in many ways. It should be understood that the tray or substrate can be partially transparent and that many other objects can be secured to the tray, the substrate, or both. For example, the mirror can be fixed to a substrate or tray. A pattern or reflection image can be printed on a substrate or tray, for example, a layer of metal ink can be applied, or a metal foil layer can be applied to the substrate or tray as a layered plate.

  Exemplary features according to the present invention will now be described. The first tray 100 is illustrated with a planar surface region 101 and side walls 112. Two exemplary and optional cavities 104 are illustrated on the tray 100. While cavities represent examples of product storage means, any suitable configuration including hubs, tabs, etc. may be within the scope of the present invention to include storing CD ROM and other media devices. Understood. The first tray 100 is also shown with optional beveled edges 117,118. A recessed edge 103 constituting the recessed area 110 is shown along one side of the first tray 100. An optional closure means 105 is also shown. Optional extension 102 is shown along a portion of tray 100. It is understood that the extension 102 can be formed in a number of ways, including extending along one or more sides of the tray 100.

  The second tray 111 is exemplarily shown fixed to the second panel 3. The tray 111 is exemplarily shown by a flat area 106, a side wall 107 and a front wall 114. An exemplary extension 108 is illustrated along the front wall 114. Closure means 109 is exemplarily shown along extension 108. The second tray 111 also includes exemplary bumps 115, 119.

  The first and second trays 100, 111 may be secured to the substrates 3, 4 by any suitable means including, but not limited to, adhesives or adhesives such as hot melt. It will be appreciated that the first and second trays 100, 111 may be aligned with each other by any suitable means including, but not limited to, the hinge panel 4. In the exemplary embodiment, recessed area 110 and extension 108 are formed in a closed container position (FIG. 4) and aligned with each other. Similarly, closure means 105, 109 are formed on the trays 100, 111 on opposite sides and aligned with the appropriate elements thereon. It will be appreciated that any suitable closure means 105, 109 may be utilized with the present invention.

  FIG. 3 illustrates that the container of FIG. 2 is partially closed. An optional extension 120 is shown along the second tray 111. FIG. 4 illustrates the container of FIGS. 2-6 in the closed position. In the exemplary method, the closing means 109 from the second tray 111 is placed in contact (not visible) with the closing means 105 of the first tray 100 by manually manipulating the substrate. In an ideal configuration, the extended portions 115, 119 of the second tray 111 fit tightly with the beveled edges 117, 118 of the first tray 100.

  FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of the present invention comprising a first tray 200 with a single cavity 204. An exemplary perimeter 208 is shown surrounding the cavity 204. The first tray 200 includes a planar region 201 having a side wall 215 and a front wall 216. Also shown is a beveled edge 214 with a closure device 203 such as a slot. The second tray 211 is illustrated with a planar area 206, side wall 207, and front wall 217. A closing means 205 such as a tab is shown along the front wall 217. An exemplary extension 202 is shown along the portion of trays 200, 211. It is understood that the extension 202 can be formed in many ways and can be on one or more sides of the trays 200, 211.

  FIG. 7 shows the container of FIG. 6 in the closed position. The closing hand 205 of the second tray 211 is in contact with the first tray 200 closing means 203 (not visible). FIG. 7A shows another embodiment of the closed container of FIG. 6 in which an exemplary extension 202 extends along at least two sides of the trays 200, 211. Extension portion 202 is shown extending beyond at least some portions of the substrate. The extension is illustratively configured to assist in opening and closing the container.

  FIG. 8 provides an exploded view of the container of FIG. In addition to the components described above, an exemplary post 209 is shown below the planar region 201. Post 209 provides structural support to tray 200. Further, the post 209 may assist in securing the tray 200 to the substrate 5 or may be supported by a container assembly.

  FIG. 13 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 6 in the closed position. An exemplary configuration for the closure means 203, 205 is illustrated. Preferably, the closing means 205 has a slightly larger shape than the closing means 203. In an ideal configuration, a force must be applied to secure and unlock the two closure devices 205 from each other. In addition, post 209 and exemplary cavity 219 are illustrated. The cavity 219 between the two trays 200, 211 can be configured in many ways as required for container applications. In the exemplary embodiment, cavity 219 may store an object such as an insert in a container, a product sample, or other suitable article. 18 and 19 show two exemplary objects for entering the cavity 219. FIG. 18 illustrates an exemplary cosmetic applicator 10, while FIG. 19 illustrates an exemplary booklet 11. It is understood that other media or digital recording devices can be stored in the container to include an electronic article monitoring device or other anti-theft detection device, or a deterrent device. Furthermore, the additional storage device may be fixed or formed on a tray or substrate for storing such objects in the container.

  FIG. 20 shows another embodiment according to the present invention. A cutout 13 with an outer periphery 12 is shown on the exemplary panel 3. It will be appreciated that the cutout 13 may extend partially or fully across the substrate 3. The cutout 13 may optionally cover the cutout 13 with a transparent film (not shown) or other suitable barrier means. Furthermore, when the second tray 211 is partially transparent, the inside of the container can be visually recognized from the outside of the container. It will be appreciated that a single cutout 13 along any portion of the substrate and configured in various ways is within the scope of the present invention.

  FIG. 22 shows another embodiment according to the present invention. The tray 300 is illustratively illustrated with two separate cover areas 305 that are secured to the tray 300 along an exemplary hinge line 308. Cover 305 may be constructed integrally with tray 300 using techniques well known in the art. Alternatively, the cover 305 can be separately formed and secured to the tray 300 using conventional techniques. The tray 300 is shown with a planar area 304, two cavities 314, a side wall 301, a front wall 302, and two recessed areas 303, 309. Cover 305 includes a planar region 306 and an exemplary cutout 307 as described above with respect to FIG. The flap of cover 305 is ideally configured and aligned to fit over cavity 314.

  FIG. 21 shows the container of FIG. 22 in the closed position. FIG. 23 shows another embodiment according to the present invention. The planar area 304 of the container of FIG. 22 is missing and the side wall 315 for the cavity 314 is shown.

  FIG. 25 shows another embodiment according to the present invention. Panels 310, 311, 312 are shown fixed to at least some portions of tray 300. The panels 310, 311 and 312 can be configured, folded and secured to the tray 300 in a number of ways.

  FIG. 24 shows another embodiment according to the present invention. Panels 310, 311, 312 are shown secured to one another by hinge panels 314, 315. An exemplary tab 316 is shown secured to the panel 312. In the exemplary embodiment, panels 310, 311, 312 can be folded in several ways (not shown) such that tabs 316 can be inserted into slots 317 of panel 310. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more panels 310, 311, 312 may comprise an assist device that assists in removing panels 311, 312 from tray 300.

  FIG. 28 shows another embodiment according to the present invention. A tray 400 having a single cavity 410 and cover 405 is secured to the tray 400 by hinge means 406. The tray 400 includes an outer perimeter 408 defined by a groove 414 around the rectangular cavity 410. The tray includes two exemplary recessed areas 403,409. The cover 405 includes a rim 413 exemplarily configured for the groove 414. Cover 405 optionally includes a cutout 412. The panel 411 is fixed to the tray 400 as an example.

  The present invention further comprises a method of packaging cosmetics using hot or cold packaging methods for the same container. This method comprises the steps of constructing a container as described above. Subsequently, either hot or cold cosmetics are placed in the container. Thereafter, a second hot or cold cosmetic is optionally placed in the container. Alternatively, the cosmetic product may be filled into one or more cassettes that are dimensioned to fit within the cavity of the container. It will be appreciated that the order in which hot or cold cosmetics are placed in the container is not critical, but can be optimized by the packaging operation.

  While the present invention may not be described in detail herein, it is nevertheless believed that it includes many embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art from the disclosed disclosure. Accordingly, this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the foregoing examples, nor are it limited to any particular preferred embodiment.

1 is an exploded perspective view of a compact comprising a large number of receptacles according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is an open compact perspective view. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a partially opened compact. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the closed compact of FIGS. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the compact of FIG. 3 showing a three-dimensional aspect of the formed plastic tray. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a compact with a partially opened and single receptacle according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the closed compact of FIG. 6. FIG. 6 shows another embodiment according to the present invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the relative shape structure of the compact component of FIG. It is a disassembled group perspective view from the compact lower side of FIG. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fully opened compact. FIG. 7 is a closed compact perspective view showing the internal shape configuration of the component when the package is closed. FIG. 7 is a closed compact plan view showing the internal shape configuration of the component when the package is closed FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a compact closed end in one embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a perspective view of a formed plastic tray according to the present invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a formed plastic tray according to the present invention. FIG. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the underside of the formed plastic tray of FIG. 15. It is a perspective view of the compact with a mirror by one Embodiment of this invention. 1 is a perspective view of a package according to the invention comprising a compact with mirror and an applicator. FIG. FIG. 2 represents a package according to the invention with an insert contained in a cavity in the package. FIG. 7 is a closed compact perspective view including a cutout in the front panel showing the package contents. FIG. 5 is a representation of a formed plastic tray with a cover on each receptacle according to one embodiment of the invention. It is a figure which shows the opened compact of FIG. It is a perspective view of the compact lower side of FIG. FIG. 3 represents a package according to the invention comprising a compact with an outer cover with a cover and a lockable foldable extension. FIG. 3 represents a package according to the invention comprising a compact with a cover and a foldable extension. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view showing the outer cover and compact component of a package with a folded extension according to the present invention. FIG. 3 represents a package according to the invention with the outer cover comprising an extended part folded. FIG. 4 represents a package according to the invention with a cover element configured differently. FIG. 6 shows another embodiment according to the present invention. FIG. 6 shows another embodiment according to the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 3 Front panel 4 Hinge panel 5 Rear panel 6 Outer cover 12 Cutout part 100 1st formation plastic tray 101 Color area 102 Extension part 103 Recessed edge 104 Receptacle 105 Socket 106 Panel area 107 Side wall 108 Extension part 109 Dowel 110 Place area 111 Second formed plastic tray 112 Upright side wall 114 Front wall 115, 119 Raised part 116 Rear wall 117, 118 Beveled edge 120 Extension part 200 First formation plastic tray 201 Color area 202 Extension part 203 Slot 204 receptacle 205 tab 206 panel area 207 side wall 208 faucet 209 post 210 receptacle wall 211 second formed plastic tray 213 groove 214 beveled edge 15 Side wall 216, 217 Front wall 218, 220 Rear wall 219 Cavity 300 Single formed plastic tray 301 Panel 302 Front wall 303 Recess area 304, 306 Color area 305 Cover 307 Cutout 308 Integrated hinge 309 Recess area 310, 311 , 312, 313, 315 Cover panel 314 Receptacle 316 Tab 317 Slot 400 Formed plastic tray 403, 409 Recessed area 405 Cover 406 Integrated hinge 408 Outer periphery 410 Rectangular receptacle 411 Panel 412 Cutout 413 Rim 414 Groove

Claims (10)

A complementary panel foldably coupled along the hinge member;
At least one tray configured to receive at least one article attached to each one of said complementary panels;
A locking mechanism for selectively holding the complementary panels in a facing relationship with each other. A complementary panel foldably coupled along the hinge member;
Complementary trays attached to each of the complementary panels arranged to align with each other when the complementary panels are folded into a facing relationship with each other;
A locking mechanism that selectively holds the complementary trays in a relationship facing each other.   The container of claim 2, wherein at least one of the complementary trays includes a compartment.   The container of claim 2, wherein the complementary trays include respective compartments arranged to define a cavity when the complementary trays are arranged in opposing relation to each other.   The locking mechanism comprises the complementary trays with respective engaging members configured to receive each other cooperatively when the complementary trays are biased into surface contact with each other. 2. The container according to 2.   6. A container according to claim 5, wherein each said engaging member comprises said complementary tray with corresponding male and female engaging elements.   The container of claim 2, further comprising a gripping element that facilitates separation of the complementary tray from a surface contact relationship.   8. A container according to claim 7, wherein the gripping element comprises at least one of the complementary trays having a recessed area.   8. A container according to claim 7, wherein the gripping element comprises at least one of the complementary trays comprising at least one flange extending along the respective edge of the complementary tray. 8. A container according to claim 7, wherein at least one of the complementary trays comprises at least one of the complementary trays, each comprising a flange extending along a respective non-hingeed outer peripheral edge.

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