KR200175555Y1 - Compact disc storage package - Google Patents

Abstract

A storage package, such as a compact disc, has a plurality of non-plastic panels comprising a pair of end panels and optionally at least one panel connecting them in the middle of the end panels. The plurality of panels are movable between an open position and a folded position for storage for access to the contents of the package, each panel having a pair of opposite sidewalls, the plurality of panels having at least one dorsal portion in the folded position To form. A plastic holder is arranged in one of the panels to receive and protect the compact disc thereon. An end cap is disposed on one of the end panels or pivotally on the holder, the end cap being detachably coupled with the holder when the plurality of panels are in the folded position to prevent the plurality of panels from accidentally moving out of the folded position. prevent.

Description

Compact Disc Storage Package

The present invention relates to a package, more specifically, a package such as a compact disc.

U.S. Patent No. 4,709,812 discloses a plurality of interconnects that are movable between a compact disc (CD) and an open position accessible to a CD holder and any compact disc on the holder and a folded position to cover and protect the CD. A package, such as a compact disc, formed of a plastic CD holder that detachably houses and protects a non-plastic material (mainly cardboard) panel, has been described. The package uses less plastic than known jewel boxes (which are formed almost entirely of plastic), and both the cardboard and the plastic used in the package are either recycled or renewable. Nevertheless, this package has not proven completely satisfactory in use.

Since there is no means to secure the package in a closed state for storage, the package can be opened accidentally (ie, a plurality of panels are moved to its open state) to expose the compact disc to dust, fingerprints, etc. . In addition, since the holder is about the same dimension or even smaller than the cardboard panel, the cardboard is co-axial with the holder or even protrudes outward from the holder, so that the hand is folded or tattered along the dam. Tattered or otherwise prone to damage. Also, the spine of a package in its folded state is usually visible so that it can be seen if the package is properly displayed, such as the package where only the edge of the CD package can be seen (eg, from a subject recorded on a CD). Even if it contains important identifying information, such protection does not provide any safeguards on its back, so that by touching the package over and over, the back and, together with it, (This means that only the back part of a particular storage device is exposed to the observer, and therefore the observer has to use the part by holding the back hard to separate the necessary packages from the rest of the packages in the same storage device.) Is especially a problem). If the package has secondary backs on the other side of the primary back, the secondary backs rarely contain important recognition information for the user, so even if they are of less importance than in the primary backs, The secondary back is also likely to be damaged by folding.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a package, such as a compact disc, having means for keeping the package closed.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a package having means for preventing damage to the dorsal part such as being folded, tattered, or the like.

Yet another object is to provide such a package having means for preventing breakage of the exposed sidewall edges of the cardboard panel such as folding, tattering and the like.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide such an ecologically safe package consisting of substantially recycled or renewable plastic and cardboard.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a package that is simple and economical to produce.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a plan view of a blank useful as a package paperboard portion, such as a compact disc, according to a three panel embodiment, which is a first embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a plan view showing an open state of the package according to the present invention.

3 is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 2;

4 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of the package of FIG. 2 in slightly enlarged dimensions in an intermediate state between the open and closed states. FIG.

FIG. 6 is a side view corresponding to FIG. 5 in which the panel is shown in phantom lines in a partially but intermediately folded intermediate position; FIG.

7 is a plan view of a package in a closed state.

FIG. 8 is a side view corresponding to FIG. 7 in which the other panel is shown in phantom lines in a partially folded but intermediate position;

Figure 9 is a side view showing an open second panel embodiment of the second embodiment of the package of the present invention.

10 is a side view in a closed state of a two panel package, but shown in phantom in an intermediate position where one panel is not fully but partially folded over the other panel;

11, 12, 13 and 14 are enlarged cross sectional views taken along lines 11-11, 12-12, 13-13 and 14-14 of FIG. 8, respectively.

Figure 15 is a plan view of a blank useful as a cardboard part of a package for a four panel embodiment which is a third embodiment of a package according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a plan view of a package according to a three-pannel living hinge embodiment, which is a fourth embodiment of the present invention, with the package open and the folded portion of the folding blank shown in phantom; FIG. Top view.

17 is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 16 shown in an imaginary line in an intermediate position, but also not fully but partially folded, of the end panel;

19 is a plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 16 in a slightly enlarged dimension in a closed state.

FIG. 20 is a side view corresponding to FIG. 19 in which the two panels are shown in phantom in a partially folded but intermediate position; FIG.

FIG. 21 is a plan view of a package according to a two-panel pin-and-hole hinge embodiment as a fifth embodiment of the present invention, in which the package is in the open state and the blank before folding; The folded part is a plan view shown by an imaginary line.

22 is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 21;

23 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 21;

FIG. 24 is a plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 21 in a slightly enlarged dimension in a closed state, with a portion cut away to show its internal structure in detail; FIG.

FIG. 25 is a side view corresponding to FIG. 24; FIG.

Explanation of symbols for the main parts of the drawings

10: Package 12: Panel

14 holder 16 end cap

20 blank 24 strip

32, 34: spine 42, 70: recess

44: protection maintenance element 72: projection

80, 84: bracing

The above and related objects of the present invention now have a compact disc comprising a plurality of non-plastic panels comprising a pair of end panels and optionally at least one panel connecting them in the middle of the pair of end panels. It was found that this is accomplished as a package. The plurality of panels are movable between an open position and a folded position for storage for access to the contents of the package. Each panel has a pair of side walls on both sides, and the plurality of panels in the folded position form at least one dorsal portion. One of the panels is arranged with a holder made of plastic to receive and protect the compact disc. One end panel is provided with a plastic end cap, which is adapted to detachably engage the holder when the plurality of panels are in the folded position to prevent the plurality of panels from accidentally moving out of the folded position. prevent. The plurality of panels is preferably formed of cardboard.

In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of panels in the open position provide access to the holder and any compact disc mounted thereon, since there is no panel covering the panel on which the holder is placed, and in the folded position, each panel is covered with each other so as to be stored. Provides a compact package for The holder is disposed on a panel adjacent to one end panel in which the end cap is disposed. If the plurality of panels comprises at least one intermediate panel, the holder is disposed in one of the intermediate panels immediately adjacent to one end panel. When the plurality of panels are in the folded position, another end panel and some other intermediate panel are disposed between one end panel and one intermediate panel.

In a preferred embodiment, the end cap is generally U-shaped, having a pair of opposite upright walls forming a joining means and a bite or shank portion connecting it, the holder being generally flat and generally rectangular in shape. And a pair of opposite sidewalls that form a coupling means adapted to cooperatively engage the end cap coupling means.

If a plurality of panels are in the folded position, the bite portion of the end cap extends over one dome of the package to protect it, and the bite portion of the end cap extending over the dome is transparent so that any material printed on the dome portion Make it visible The end cap extends upwards from the panel in which it is disposed, overlapping with the holder when a plurality of panels are in the folded position, and also extending enough to cover and protect its adjacent edge from the panel in which it is placed. Therefore, the end cap extends up and down enough to cover and protect one end of the plurality of panels and adjacent portions of the opposite side wall when the plurality of panels are in the folded position.

The holder sidewall extends upwards over the plane of the holder body over most of its length (the holder engaging means is arranged in the remainder of its length), and downwards actually below its plane of the holder body. Extend across. More specifically, the holder sidewall extends downwardly below the plane of the holder body at least by the thickness of the panel in which the holder is disposed, and over the most length of the holder body, the plurality of panels are in the folded position. At least the thickness of the remaining panels extends upwardly from the holder body to cover and protect the side walls of the plurality of panels in the folded position. Therefore, the holder sidewalls extend upwardly and downwardly with respect to the plane of the holder body to cover both sidewalls of the panel on which the holder is placed, and in cooperation with the sidewall of its end cap, when the plurality of panels are in the folded position, Cover the side walls.

In addition, when the plurality of panels are in the open position, the holder sidewall extends sufficiently beyond the holder body and towards one end where the end cap is disposed, so that when the plurality of panels are in the folded position, the holder sidewall is defined by the end cap. Cover and protect the side walls of the uncovered back.

Each of the holder and the end cap preferably form a brace to limit the relative movement in a given direction by mutual support to limit the pressure that can be applied on the holder body. The brace means are preferably on the side walls of the holder and the end cap.

The present invention also encompasses a storage package such as a compact disc having an end cap with a hinge. The package includes a plurality of nonplastic panels, a plastic holder and a plastic end cap. The plurality of nonplastic material (usually cardboard) panels includes a pair of end panels and, optionally, at least one panel connecting them in the middle of the pair of end panels. The plurality of panels can be moved between an open position with access to the contents of the package and a folded position for storage purposes. Each panel has a pair of opposite sidewalls. The plastic holder is disposed in one of the end panels to receive and protect the compact disc thereon, the holder having one end remote from the other end panel when the plurality of panels are in the open position. The plastic end has one end pivoted directly to one end of the holder. The end cap also detachably engages the holder at a portion spaced from one end of the holder when the plurality of panels are in the folded position, thereby retaining the plurality of panels in the folded position, thereby allowing the plurality of panels to accidentally move out of the folded position. Have a portion (distant from the one end) to prevent the suffix.

In the form of an end cap with a hinge of the present invention, a plurality of panels in the open position generally do not have a panel covering the panel in which the holder is disposed so that the holder and the compact disc thereon are accessible, in the folded position, Each panel overlaps to provide a storage package. The end cap is generally U-shaped, having a pair of opposite sidewalls forming a joining means and a connecting portion connecting them, the holder adapted to interact with the generally flat and generally rectangular body and the joining means of the end cap. It has a pair of opposing side walls which form a joining means. Each of the holder and the end cap forms a brace means adapted to support each other, thereby limiting the pressure that can be applied on the holder body by limiting relative movement in a given direction. The brace means are preferably located on the side walls of the holder and the end cap.

In one variant, the side wall of the holder extends upward over most of its length over the plane of the holder body, and the engaging means of the holder is arranged on the remaining length portion of the holder body, but in another variant, The holder side wall extends in such a manner upwards over most of the length of the holder body and the coupling means of the holder is disposed on the side wall of the holder. The holder sidewall extends downwardly below the plane of the body over substantially the entire length of the holder body. More specifically, the holder sidewalls extend at least downwardly where the holder is disposed, and over the majority or the entire length of the holder body, the thickness of the remaining panels from the plane of the holder body when at least a plurality of panels are in the folded position. By extending upwards, the side walls of the plurality of panels in the folded position are covered and protected. Thus, the holder sidewall extends up and down with respect to the plane of the holder body to cover both sidewalls of the panel on which the holder is placed, and when a plurality of panels are folded, alone or in cooperation with the sidewall of the end cap, Cover the side walls of the panels to protect them.

In one embodiment, the end cap is pivotally secured directly to the holder by an active hinge extending substantially over the full width of the holder. The end cap and the holder are in a single forming operation, preferably a unitary structure formed of polypropylene.

In another preferred embodiment, the end cap is pivotally secured directly to the holder by a pair of spaced pin and hole hinges, each hinge being disposed on either side of the holder. The end cap may be a different color than the holder.

The end cap extends sufficiently up and down to cover and protect adjacent portions of opposite sidewalls of the plurality of panels when the plurality of panels are in the folded position.

The above and related objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be more fully understood with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the following detailed description of the presently preferred, but exemplary, embodiments of the present invention is given.

The present invention relates to a storage package such as a compact disk. The term "compact disc" and the like encompass CD-ROMs and diskettes that may be blank or pre-recorded, and such compact discs refer to music, words, images, binary data, and combinations thereof. It may be contained or contained.

Referring now to the drawings, in particular to FIGS. 2 to 8, there is shown a storage pack 10 according to the present invention. The storage pack 10 consists of a plurality of non-plastic panels 12, a plastic holder 14 and a plastic end cap 16. Unlike all plastic jewelry boxes commonly used for CD storage, the packages of the present invention are mostly formed of non-plastic panels, which easily rot under landfill conditions, and therefore are more ecological than plastic. It is desirable to be formed of more acceptable cardboard. Moreover, both the cardboard and plastic components of the present invention can be made from recycled materials and are themselves renewable, making the package both ecologically and economically suitable.

Figure 2 illustrates a three panel embodiment of a package according to the present invention, in which similar packages utilizing the principles of the present invention have fewer panels (see the second panel embodiment, which is the second embodiment of Figures 9 and 10); More panels may be formed (eg, see the four panel embodiment, which is the third embodiment of FIG. 15).

Referring now specifically to FIG. 1, a plurality of nonplastic panels 12 may be formed of a single blank or sheet 20 that has been pre-recorded and pre-printed. It is preferable to divide the blank 20 into several rows. The first row 22 has the same number of rectangular portions, that is, portions 22a, 22b, 22c as the number of plural (here three) panels. The three parts 22a, 22b, 22c of the first row 22 are separated from each other by a strip 24 having a smaller width than the width of the parts, the strip bordering the fold line 26. . As will be apparent later, the width of the strip 24 is determined by the need for the strip to accommodate the gap between adjacent rectangular portions 22 when the plurality of panels 12 are placed in the folded position for storage purposes. In this folded position, each panel 12 is in an overlapping relationship.

Aesthetic reasons are also required that both major surfaces of the panel 12 to be exposed to be seen should be multicolored, but for economic reasons, the blank 20 is usually multicolored on one side thereof. The opposite side of the blank 20 is usually kept in its original color or only printed in a single color. Thus, the blank 20 also preferably has a second row of one or more unconnected rectangular portions, such as portion 28a. Thus, when the rectangular portions 22a and 28a are both multicolored printed on only one side, one is folded at the fold line 30 between them, and the multicolored printed surface of the exposed portion and the non-multicolored glued together and visually hidden ( A panel having a non-multi-color printing surface (here, panel 12a of FIG. 2) is formed.

For various reasons, it is preferable that there is no part in the second row 28 adjacent to the part 22b intended to receive the holder 14. Firstly, since the panel portion 22 has one surface which is entirely covered by the holder 14, there is no aesthetic reason to have the adjacent portion in the row 28. Secondly, the non-colored or non-coated surface of the part 22b allows the holder to adhere better than the case of the multicolored printing surface. Third, because the portion 22b is substantially reinforced and reinforced by the presence of the holder 14 on that portion, no missing section is required to impart additional strength and stiffness to the portion 22b. Fourth, the invisible portion unnecessarily increases its thickness when the entire package is folded, so that the package occupies the same volume as a conventional jewelry box (eg, existing storage for a conventional CD package jewelry box). This is particularly problematic where it is intended to enable the use of the facility.

A rectangular portion similar to the portion 28a of the second row 28 can be located adjacent to the portion 22c of the first row in the second row and arrange a fold line 30 therebetween. In this case, the portion 28c can be folded at the fold line 30 and glued to the portion 22c adjacent to it in the same way as the portion 28a is folded to adhere to the adjacent portion 22a to form a panel. . However, since it is often necessary to place removable documents (such as pre-recorded content, production of contents, authors, instructions for use, etc.) in the CD package, part 28c may be placed at its two lateral ends (part 22b). Only at the end of the portion 22c and its free end) adjacent to) to form a panel 12c (see FIG. 2) having a top open pocket in which such a document or booklet can be stored. Can be.

Referring to FIG. 2, a plurality of non-plastic panels 12 formed from the blank 20 (after folding and bonding the parts of the second row 28 adjacent to the parts of the first row 22) are paired. End panels 12a, 12c and, optionally (as shown in FIG. 3), at least one panel 12b connecting them in the middle of the pair of end panels 12a, 12c. The plurality of non-plastic panels 12 also form a pair of opposing free ends 18 and a pair of opposing side walls 19. Panel 12b, of course, consists only of part 22.

Referring again to FIGS. 5-8, the plurality of panels 12 may be constructed from several of the panels (eg, panel 12b, as shown) from an open position (FIGS. 2-4) with access to the contents of the package. 12c) All of the panels 12a, 12b, 12c can be moved to the folded position for overlapping storage (see FIGS. 7-8) via this overlapping intermediate position (FIGS. 5-6). Since there is no panel overlapping with the panel 12b on which the holder 14 is disposed, it is possible to access the holder 14 and any compact disc mounted thereon, and in the folded position, each panel 12a, 12b, 12c mutually The plurality of panels 12 form a pair of opposed back portions 32, 34 (FIG. 8) of the package in the folded position, whereby the first back portion 32 Mainly composed of a fold line 24 in the middle of the panels 12a, 12b, the second dorsal part of the other end 34 is formed by the fold line 24 between the panels 22b and 22c and the free end of the panel 12a.

With particular reference to FIGS. 2-4, the holder 14 preferably includes, in certain respects, an injection molded plastic element different from the holder found in a conventional jewelry box. The holder 14 is disposed on a panel 12 adjacent to an end panel (here end panel 12a) in which the end cap 16 is disposed, wherein at least one intermediate panel (here intermediate panel 22b) is If present, the holder is disposed in one of the intermediate panels 22b immediately adjacent to the end panel 22a as long as the end cap 16 is fixed. When the plurality of panels 12 are in the folded position shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the other end panel 12c and any other intermediate panel (the three panel embodiment does not exist) bear the end cap 16. One end panel 12a and one intermediate panel 12b which hold the holder 14 are disposed in the middle.

In its typical aspect, the holder 14 is generally flat, forming a recess on the exposed surface that is dimensioned and structured to receive a centrally holed CD (usually about 4.7 inches in outer diameter). It has a rectangular body. The depth of the recess 42 is sufficient to ensure that the upper surface of the CD does not protrude above the holder body 40 surface around the recess 42. A retaining element 44 is disposed in the center of the recess 42 and projects upward therefrom to protect the CD in the holder 14. Any conventional element that provides a frictional bond between the protective retaining element 44 and the inner circumference of the CD-for example, a conventional jewelry box in frictional engagement with the inner circumference of the center hole of the CD to hold the CD in place. Upright flexible plastic tabs, such as those used as holders, may also be used. In addition, in order to facilitate the user to separate the CD from the protection retaining means and to remove the CD from the recess 42, apply a slight downward force on the protection retaining means 44 while simultaneously placing a finger under the edge of the CD. It is desirable to provide a plurality of finger grooves or recesses 46 (two are illustrated) for retraction. The finger recess 46 is preferably arranged at both ends of the holder recess 42 extending from the end to the end of the holder 14, for example in parallel with the side wall 50.

The holder 14 also has a pair of opposing side walls 50 disposed slightly outside from the side walls 19 on the panel 22b on which it is placed. Each holder sidewall 50 has a first portion 52 extending substantially upwards above the plane of the holder body 42 over most of its length (at least 1/2 of its length), and the holder sidewall. And a second portion 54 extending over the remainder of the length and extending at least slightly above the surface of the holder body 40. Each second portion 54 forms a coupling means 72 which detachably engages with the end cap 16 for reasons which will be apparent later. In addition, the holder side wall 50 extends somewhat below the plane of the holder body 42 substantially throughout its length. More specifically, as best illustrated in FIG. 8, the holder sidewall 50 extends downwardly below the plane of the holder body 40 by at least the thickness of the panel 12b on which the holder 14 is disposed, Over most of the length of, the thickness of at least the remaining panels 12a, 12b when the plurality of panels 12 are in the folded position extends upwardly from the plane of the holder body 40. Therefore, the holder side wall 50 overlaps with the side walls 19 of the plurality of panels 12a, 12b, 12c in the essentially folded position to protect them. As will be apparent later, only a portion of the panel sidewall 19 which is not protected by the holder sidewall 50 (because the protruding holder sidewall 52 extends only over the majority) is supported by the end cap 16. Protected. Thus, the holder side wall 50 extends upwards and downwards with respect to the plane of the holder body 40 (always) and covers both side walls 19 of the panel 12b on which it is disposed (multiple panels 12 ) Cooperates with the side wall of the end cap 16 and the side wall 19 of the other panels 12a, 12c).

Referring specifically to FIG. 2, when the plurality of panels 12 are in the open position, the holder sidewall 50 extends sufficiently toward the end panel 12 as long as the end cap 16 is disposed, and thus, FIG. 7 and When the plurality of panels are in the folded position as shown in FIG. 8, the holder side wall 50 covers and protects the side wall of the dorsal portion 32 not covered by the end cap 16.

The end cap 16 preferably consists of an injection molded plastic element disposed in one of the end panels (illustrated here as the panel 12). The end cap 16 is detachably coupled with the holder 14 when the plurality of panels 12 are in the folded position, thereby eliminating accidental movement of the plurality of panels away from the folded position. The end cap 16 is generally U-shaped and has a pair of opposing upright sidewalls 60 and a bite portion 62 connecting them. The bite portion 62 includes an upright end wall 64 that is of construction and dimension covering the back portion 34 when the plurality of panels 12 are in the folded position as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. Except for the upright end wall 64 of the bite portion 62 of the end cap 14, all plastic elements of the present invention may be opaque or translucent, usually black. However, the upright end wall 64 is preferably translucent so that any content printed or otherwise placed on the back, such as the recognition portion of the compact disc disposed within the package 10, can be seen. This allows the package contents to be known even if both sides of the package are covered by such a package, for example in a package storage device. Therefore, the end wall 64, although not necessarily, is usually formed of pure plastic to ensure the desired transparency.

The end cap side wall 60 and the bite end wall 64 extend upwards from the panel 12a in which the end cap 16 is disposed, covering the holder 14 when the plurality of panels 12 are in the folded position. . As a result, in that position, the end cap sidewall 60 is disposed in the same plane as the protruding holder sidewall portion 52 and both extend slightly beyond the panel sidewall 19. The length of the end cap sidewall 60 corresponds to the length of the non-protruding sidewall portion 54 of the holder sidewall 50, so that when the plurality of panels are in the folded position shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the end cap sidewall 60 cooperates with the holder side wall 50 to cover and protect the side wall 19 of the panels therebetween. In addition, the end cap 16 also extends sufficiently downwards from the panel 12a on which it is disposed to cover and protect its adjacent edge, ie the free end 18 and sidewall 19 portions of the panel 12a. . Therefore, the end cap extends sufficiently upward and downward to cover and protect not only the back part 34 but also the adjacent part of the opposing side wall 19 of the panel 12 when the plurality of panels 12 are in the folded position. .

The end cap side wall 60 forms a coupling means 70 adapted to detachably engage and interact with the coupling means 72 on the holder side wall portion 54. As shown, the engaging means 70 of the end caps are shown as recesses extending inwardly on the inner surface of each end cap side wall 60, and the engaging means 72 of the holder are formed as shown in FIG. 54, which is shown as a projection extending outward on the outer surface of the recess 70, the recess 70 is adapted to receive and secure the projection 72 therein so as to be detachably protected to prevent accidental opening of the package (i.e. a plurality of panels). Fields 12 are accidentally moved away from the folded position). Clearly, however, the recess 70 can be on the holder sidewall portion 54, and the projection 72 can be on the end cap sidewall portion 60, and in fact, is easily removable in addition to the recess and projection. It may be replaced by a coupling means.

In order to limit the pressure exerted by the end cap 16 on the holder body 40 and thus on any compact disc disposed in the holder recess 42, the holders 14 are each adjacent to its ends. Lug-shaped abutment means 80 extending outwardly from the sidewall portion 54 of the respective sidewalls 60 on the end cap 16. Form the means 84. The brace means 80 of the holder and the brace means 84 of the end cap are mutual support when the plurality of panels are in the folded position so that the holder 14 and the end cap 16 move relative to each other in a given direction. It is to be limited.

In order to use the package in the open state, the compact disc is placed on its protective holder 44 in the recess 42 of the holder 14, and then the package (shown in FIGS. 2-4). By moving the panel 12c in the direction of the arrow 90 from the open state to the intermediate state (shown in FIGS. 5 and 6), and finally by moving the panel 12a in the direction of the arrow 92 ( Is moved to the closed state (shown in FIGS. 7 and 8). In this closed state, the holder side wall 50 cooperates with the end cap 16 to protect the panel side wall 19 and the dorsal portions 32, 34. The transparent end cap wall 64 protects the dorsal portion 34 covered by the cap 16 while permitting the projection of the dorsal portion 32 and protrudes laterally beyond the holder body portion 40. End) protects the edge of the back portion 32 which is not covered by the end cap 16. The end cap 16 and the holder 14 cooperate with each other to keep the package folded, wherein the side walls of the various panels are sufficiently protected from damage such as folding or tattering.

Referring now to FIGS. 9 and 10, there is shown a second embodiment 10 ′ of the present invention with only two panels 12a ′, 12b ′ in their figures. The holder 14 'is disposed on the end panel 12b'. In its functional feature, the package 10 'can have a slightly reduced width of the strip 24 because there is no panel similar to the panel 12c to be received between the panels 12a', 12b ', and It is for this reason that the heights of the upstanding elements (side wall 60 'and end wall 64') of the end cap 16 and the upstanding elements (protruding side wall 52 ') of the holder 14' can be reduced. Except for the three panel embodiment (10).

Referring now to FIG. 15, there is shown a blank 20 ″ of the third embodiment used to form a four panel package according to the present invention. The rectangular portions 22a ″, 22b ″, 22c ″ of the first row 22 ″ and the rectangular portions 28a ″ of the second row 28 ″ are respectively formed of the blanks 20 of the first embodiment 10. Similar to portions 22a, 22b, 22c of the first row and portions 28a of the second row. The added panels 22d ″ in the first column and the panels 28c ″, 28d ″ in the second column are simply for more printing areas, e.g. for additional informational appendages on the subject of the compact disc or even simply for advertisements that are not properly relevant. Is provided to form-. Although the end portions 22a ″, 22d ″ of the first row are respectively shown having adjacent panels 28a ″, 28d ″ in the second row, as illustrated, the middle panel of the first row 22 ″ (E.g., 22 "), or alternatively, it is clear that adjacent portions (e. G., 28 ") can be provided in the second row 28 " except for the portion where the holder is preferably disposed. The holder is preferably arranged on the middle portion 22b ″ (adjacent to the end panel 22a ″) that receives the end cap, but may optionally be disposed. The width of each strip 24 ″ as well as the plurality of panels are appropriately adjusted to facilitate movement to the closed position.

In each of the three embodiments (10, 10 ', 10 ") described above, the holder 14 and the end cap 16 are separated, such that the end cap 16 is disposed on the end panel 12 and The holder 14 is arranged in a panel next to the end panel (which can itself be the end panel of the two panel embodiment). Therefore, there are serious limitations related to where to place the holder 14 and end cap 16. In addition, although in terms of production economy, the end cap 16 may be injection molded as part of the holder 14 during the injection molding process, thereafter, the end cap 16 is separated from the holder 14 for adhesion. It must be assembled separately to a plurality of panels. This additional operation increases product production costs and, although the cost of the additional adhesive used to attach the end cap 16 to one of the panels 12 is minor, the desired adhesive may adversely affect the ease of recycling the package. Since it is a hot melt adhesive, it is not desirable to add an amount of adhesive. Thus, the present invention also allows the plastic end caps to pivot directly to the plastic holder (rather than indirectly through the cardboard panel) so that the amount of adhesive used in the package is eliminated without the need to adhere the end caps to the panels. It is intended another embodiment to be written down. The manufacturing flexibility is now improved because the holder can now be placed on the end of the package (although there are multiple panels in the package), and the end cap and the holder can be separated and the end cap attached to one of the panels again. There is no need to reduce manufacturing costs.

Referring now to FIG. 16 where a fourth embodiment 100 of the present invention is shown, the end cap is pivotally attached directly to the holder by an active hinge. The elements of the fourth embodiment corresponding to the elements and structures and functions of the first, second or third embodiments are shown by adding 100 to the associated reference numerals. Since the holder 114 is disposed on the end panel 112a of the first row 122, there is no portion 128a adjacent to the portion 122a, and the second row 128 has no second portion 122b. There is an adjacent portion 128b. Although a three panel embodiment is illustrated, it will be appreciated that fewer panels or more panels may be used (as in the fourth embodiment described below). The panel 112 on which the holder 114 is disposed forms an extension 208 that passes through the end of the holder 114 so that the extension 208 of the end cap 116, as described in more detail below. It is desirable to be able to cover the back.

Although the top open pocket that protects the print or booklet is illustrated as being formed by the panel 112b, it is instead formed of the panel 112c or as a whole together (in this case, some portions 128 are usually in full dimensions). It is obvious that the opposite side of the portion 122b can be disposed completely. Of course, the panel 112a consists of only one portion 122a like the panel on which the holder 114 is to be placed.

Referring now specifically to FIGS. 16-18, holder 14 is an end panel (here end panel 112a but optionally disposed on end panel 112c). When in the folded position as shown, the other end panel 112c and some intermediate panel (here panel 112b) are portions of the end cap 112a and the end cap 116 that bear the end cap 12 ( 164) disposed in the middle. Unlike the sidewalls 50 of the holder 14, the sidewalls 150 of the holder 114 essentially include a first portion 152 (portion) extending substantially substantially over the holder body over the entire length of the holder. 54, there is no substantial side wall portion), and the first portion 152 forms a joining means shown by a hole 172 disposed over the plane of the end panel 112a, the joining means having an end portion. Removably engages and interacts with engagement means disposed on the cap 116. All portions of the end panel sidewall 118 are protected by the holder sidewall 150.

The plastic end cap 116 according to the fourth embodiment 100 is not disposed on one of the cardboard panels (as in the embodiments 10, 10 ', 10 " described above) but is more specific to the holder 114. In other words, it is directly pivoted to the adjacent end 114a of the holder 114 (in other words, the end cap 116 is from the middle panel 112b and the end panel 112c as shown in FIG. 17). It is disposed on the remote holder end 114c. The end cap 116 is fixed to the holder end 114a by an active hinge 200, which is a unitary structure with the holder 114, both of which are a single forming operation. The plastic used for the holder 114 and the end cap (and of course the active hinge 200) should be strong, but if thin, it should be substantially flexible to form the active hinge and polypropylene is preferred. The active hinge 200 has four side walls 150 of the holder 114. Extends over substantially the entire width of the active hinge 200. Preferably, the active hinge 200 is formed of a thin-walled line of plastic holder 114 and an end cap, with the opposite portions of those elements adjacent to the active hinge 200 being terminated. Preferably, the cap 116 is inclined to pivot at least 90 °, so that the end cap 116 is usually the same color as the holder 114, and unlike the holder 14 there is no transparent portion. .

End cap 116 is generally U-shaped and has a pair of opposing upright sidewalls 160 and a connection 201 connecting them. The connection portion 201 has a bite portion 162 as an L-shaped cross section and an upright end wall 164 perpendicular to the bite portion. The end wall 164 is of construction and dimension to act as a latch, and has a lip 202 at its free end to easily grip the cap 116 and provide a user-applicable lever action. It is desirable to improve. The end cap 116 is centered on the active hinge 200, with the bite portion 162 in substantially the same plane as the holder 114 (as shown in FIGS. 16-18) and the end wall 164 being In a non-latching orientation that intersects it (as shown in FIGS. 19-20), the bite portion 162 intersects the plane of the holder 114 and the end wall 164 is generally in line with the plane. It can pivot to a parallel latching position. The end cap side wall 116 is directly connected to both the bite portion 162 and the end wall 164 to detachably engage with corresponding mating means 172 illustrated as a hole or recess on the holder side wall 152. Engaging means 170 exemplified as lugs projecting outwardly.

As illustrated, the engaging means of the end cap is a lug projecting outwards on the outer surface of each end cap side wall 160, and the engaging means 172 of the holder receives therein the projecting lug 170 therein. It is a hole or recess on each holder sidewall 150 as a structure and dimension that keeps detachable to prevent the plurality of panels 112 from moving out of the folded position and accidentally moving. However, it is apparent that the hole 172 is on the end cap sidewall 160 and the protruding lug 170 may be on the holder sidewall 150. It is also possible to replace easily removable coupling means other than the hole lug system.

In order to limit the pressure exerted on the holder 114, and therefore on any compact disk disposed on the recess 142 of the holder, the end cap 116 extends outward from each sidewall portion 160. A stop which forms a protruding lug shaped brace means 180, each holder sidewall 160 engaging the lug 180 and restricting the end cap 116 from moving out of the latching position out of the latching position. It forms a fixed upper brace surface adapted to function as. Optionally, or in addition thereto, appropriately inclined faces of the end cap 116 and the holder 114 around the active hinge 200 are also applied on the holder 114 downwardly by the end cap latch 164. The pressure can be limited.

The side walls 160 of the end cap 116 are spaced apart so that they are easily received between the side walls 50 of the holder 114 when the end cap 116 is moved to the latching position, and the end cap 116 and the holder are The engaging means 170 and 172 of the 114 are respectively detachably coupled. In order to allow the end cap 116 to pivot easily to the latching position, the side wall 150 adjacent the active hinge 200 around the engagement means 172 is elastically outwardly flexible so that the lug 170 It is preferable to bend and accommodate the passageway of the lug 170 between the holder side walls 150 until it rests in the hole 172. Alternatively, or in addition thereto, the end cap sidewall 160 can be elastically inwardly flexible.

As described above, the panel 112a (formed from the portion 122a) preferably forms an extension 208 at its free end, the extension 208 being the bite portion of the end cap 116. 162) to the outer surface. The extension 208 is printed with recognition information about the CD in the embodiment 100. Preferably, the outer surface of the end cap bite portion 162 forms a recess adapted to receive the extension 208 therein to protect it from damage such as the edge of the extension 208 being bent or tattered. .

Referring now to FIGS. 21-25, those figures show a fourth embodiment 100 except that the end caps and holders are connected by pin-and-hole hinges rather than active hinges. A fifth embodiment similar to that is shown. Elements of the fifth embodiment that are structurally or functionally equivalent to the elements of the fifth embodiment are denoted by their prime numbers.

Referring specifically to FIG. 21, the blank used in the fifth embodiment 100 ′ is formed by the panel 112c (or the panel 112) since the embodiment is illustrated as a two-panel embodiment. It is substantially similar to the blank used in the fifth embodiment 100 'except that there is no panel corresponding to the portions 122c and 128c. However, it is obvious that the fifth embodiment 100 'may optionally have a larger number of panels 112. As shown in FIG. In addition, the extension 208 of the panel 112a is not bonded to the end cap (as in the fourth embodiment) but rather to the end 114a 'of the holder 114' adjacent to the end cap 116 '. The extension 208 may be partially or wholly hidden by the end cap 116 ′ when the plurality of panels are in the open position, but the plurality of panels are closed (as shown in FIGS. 24-25). When in, extension 208 is easily visible.

The holder 114 'of the fifth embodiment 100' is similar in most respects to the holder 114 of the fourth embodiment 100, but its raised sidewall portion 152 'has a holder edge 114a. ′), Thus leaving the sidewall portion 300 of the main holder body exposed. On each of the exposed holder sidewall portions 300 are illustrated coupling means 172 'in the form of recesses or holes adjacent the ends of the first portion 152' of the holder sidewall 150 'and the holder end wall 114a. ′), Therefore, a pin receiving hole or recess 302 adjacent the end cap 116 ′ is disposed.

The end cap of the fifth embodiment 100 'is generally similar to the end cap 116 of the fourth embodiment 100, but differs in certain critical respects. The end cap 116 'is generally U-shaped and forms a pair of upstanding sidewalls 160' and a connecting portion 202 'which connects it and acts as an end 164' (byte of the fourth embodiment 100) No part corresponds to part 162). The end cap sidewalls 160 'are further spaced apart to be in the same plane as the holder sidewalls 150'. Each end cap sidewall 160 'forms an inwardly projecting pin (best shown in FIG. 24), the pin being pivotally received in a holder hole or recess 302 to pin and hole Form a hinge. Two pin and hole assemblies 304, 302, one on each side of the holder 114 ′, allow the end cap 116 ′ to pivot between a non-latching and latching position with respect to the holder 114 ′. Form a pair of hinges to make it possible. When the package is in the closed position, it extends to or near the holder sidewall portions 152 (to cover the exposed holder sidewall portion 300), thereby interacting with the sidewall 118 of the panel 112b. Protects against damage such as folding or tattering.

The active hinge 200 of the fourth embodiment 100 connects the end cap 116 to the bottom of the holder 114 (ie the part of the holder 114 proximate to the panel to which the holder 114 is fixed). Although illustrated, alternatively, active hinge 200 may connect end cap 116 to the top of holder 114. Substantially, the active hinge 200 would then directly connect the upright end wall 164 of the holder 114 and the end cap 116, with the end cap sidewall 160 intersecting with the upright end wall 164. Extend it. In such a variant of the fourth embodiment 100, the holder 114 and the end cap 116 are the fifth embodiment except that an active hinge 200 is employed instead of the pin 304 and the hole. It is usually similar in structure to the corresponding elements 114 ', 116' of (100 ').

Indeed, in another variant of the fourth embodiment in which the active hinge connects the end cap 116 to the top (rather than the bottom of the holder 114), the sidewalls 160 of the end cap 116 are formed from the holder 114. Can be located closer than the sidewalls 150, and a downwardly extending slot is provided in the top surface of the holder 114 so that the end cap sidewall 160 is therein when the end cap 116 is in the latching position. I can receive it. Holes on one side of each slot receive the protruding lugs of the end cap sidewalls to keep the end cap 116 in a latched position.

Therefore, depending on the preferred variant, it will be appreciated that the side wall of the end cap may be arranged in the same plane as the side walls of the holder or closer to each other. Usually, the side wall of the end cap should not be disposed outside the sides of the side walls of the holder, because this increases the overall dimensions of the package without a corresponding benefit.

While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown in the drawings and described in detail, various modifications and improvements thereof will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the present invention should be construed broadly and should be limited only by the appended claims of utility model registration, not by the foregoing specification.

In summary, the present invention provides a package, such as a compact disc, having means for keeping the package folded and means for preventing damage such as folding or tattering the back and exposed sidewall edges of the cardboard panel. do. The package is not only conditionally safe but also simple and economical to manufacture because it can consist of substantially recycled or renewable plastics and cardboard.

Claims (23)

In the package for storing the recording medium, (A) a plurality of panels comprising a pair of end panels and movable between an open position and a folded position for storage for access to the contents of the package, the plurality of panels each having a pair of opposing sidewalls; Panels; (B) a plastics holder disposed on one of the end panels to receive and hold the recording medium thereon, the other end panel of the end panel when the plurality of panels are in the open position; Plastic holders with one end remotely located from; And (C) A plastic end cap in which one end of the end cap is directly pivoted to one end of the holder, wherein when the plurality of panels are in the folded position, the end cap is spaced from one end of the holder. A plastic material having a portion spaced from one end of the holder to releasably engage the holder and to hold the plurality of panels in the folded position to prevent accidental movement of the plurality of panels from the folded position End cap Package for storing the recording medium comprising a. The package of claim 1, wherein the end cap is pivoted directly to the holder by a living hinge. 3. The package according to claim 2, wherein the active hinge extends substantially over the entire width of the holder. 3. The package according to claim 2, wherein the end cap and the holder have a single integral structure formed in a single molding operation. The package according to claim 2, wherein the plastic material is polypropylene. The package according to claim 1, wherein the end cap is pivoted directly to the holder by a pair of spaced apart pin and hole hinges. 7. The package according to claim 6, wherein each of the hinges is disposed on an opposite side of the holder. 7. The body of claim 6, wherein the end cap is generally U-shaped and has a pair of opposing upright sidewalls forming an end cap coupling means and connecting portions connecting the sidewalls, wherein the holder is a generally flat and generally rectangular body. And a pair of opposing sidewalls forming a joining means for cooperatively joining said end cap joining means. 7. The package according to claim 6, wherein the end cap is a different color from the holder. The package according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of panels are formed of paperboard. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of panels in the open position do not have a panel covering the panel on which the holder is disposed, thereby making it possible to access the holder and any recording medium on the holder, And a plurality of panels in position, wherein the panels overlap each other to provide a compact storage package. 2. The holder according to claim 1, wherein said end cap is generally U-shaped and has a pair of opposing upright sidewalls forming an end cap coupling means and connecting portions connecting said sidewalls, said holder being generally flat and generally rectangular in shape. A package for storage of a storage medium having a main body and a pair of opposing holder sidewalls forming a holder engaging means for cooperatively engaging with the end cap engaging means. 13. The recording medium storage apparatus of claim 12, wherein the holder side wall extends over a plane of the holder body over a major length of the holder body, and the holder coupling means is disposed on the remaining length portion thereof. package. 13. The recording medium storage package according to claim 12, wherein the holder sidewall extends substantially below the plane of the holder body over the entire length of the holder body. The holder side wall extends below the plane of the holder body at least by a thickness of the panel on which the holder is disposed, and over the most length of the holder body, And a side of the plurality of panels in the folded position so as to overlap and protect the sidewalls of the plurality of panels in the folded position when at least in the folded position. The method according to claim 12, wherein the holder side wall extends upward and downward with respect to the plane of the holder body, covering both side walls of the panel on which the holder is disposed, and cooperating with the side walls of the end cap, And a sidewall of another panel of the panels when the plurality of panels are in the folded position. 13. The recording medium storage package according to claim 12, wherein the end cap extends sufficiently upward and downward to overlap and protect adjacent portions of opposing side walls of the plurality of panels when the plurality of panels are in the folded position. . 13. The recording medium of claim 12, wherein each of the holder and the end cap support each other to limit relative movement in a given direction to form a brace means for limiting the pressure that can be exerted on the holder body by the end cap. Package for storage. 19. The package according to claim 18, wherein the brace means is on sidewalls of the holder and the end cap. The package according to claim 1, wherein the panels are not plastics. The package according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of panels further comprise at least one panel in an intermediate position with respect to the pair of end panels and connecting the pair of end panels. In the package for storing the recording medium, (A) A plurality of paperboard panels comprising a pair of end panels and movable between an open position and a folded position for storage for access to the contents of the package, each of the plurality of panels facing one pair A plurality of cardboard panels having sidewalls, the plurality of panels in the folded position forming at least one spine portion; (B) a plastic having a pair of opposing holder sidewalls arranged on one of the end panels to receive and hold the recording medium thereon and forming a generally flat and generally rectangular holder body and engaging means; As a holder, the holder sidewall extends below the plane of the holder body at least by the thickness of the panel on which the holder is disposed, and over the length of the holder body, the plurality of panels are in a folded position. When there is at least the thickness of the remaining panels of the panels extending upward from the plane of the holder body to overlap and protect the side walls of the plurality of panels in the folded position, wherein the plurality of panels are in the open position Having one end remotely located from the other of said end panels Plastic holder; And (C) one end of the end cap is pivoted directly to one end of the holder and has a pair of opposing upright sidewalls, generally U-shaped, and a connecting portion connecting the sidewalls, the sidewalls comprising: the plurality of panels Cooperatively engages with a holder engaging means when in the folded position and maintains the plurality of panels in the folded position to form engaging means for preventing the plurality of panels from being accidentally moved from the folded position. A plastic end cap, which extends upwards and downwards sufficiently to overlap and protect adjacent portions of the plurality of opposing sidewalls. Wherein the holder sidewall overlaps and protects the sidewalls of the panels not covered by the end cap when the plurality of panels are in the folded position, wherein the plurality of panels in the open position have the holder on top By not having a panel covering the panel on which the panel is disposed, the holder and any compact disc on the holder can be accessed, and the plurality of panels in the folded position each overlap the panel to form a small storage package. Package for storing storage media provided. 23. The support of claim 22, wherein each of the holder and the end cap support each other to limit relative movement in a given direction to form a brace means on the sidewall to limit the pressure exerted on the holder body by the end cap. Package for recording media.