US20170190501A1 - Soup box container - Google Patents
Soup box container Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170190501A1 US20170190501A1 US14/988,799 US201614988799A US2017190501A1 US 20170190501 A1 US20170190501 A1 US 20170190501A1 US 201614988799 A US201614988799 A US 201614988799A US 2017190501 A1 US2017190501 A1 US 2017190501A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- section
- cover
- panels
- flap
- retaining tab
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/38—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
- B65D81/3876—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation insulating sleeves or jackets for cans, bottles, barrels, etc.
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/02—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper by folding or erecting a single blank to form a tubular body with or without subsequent folding operations, or the addition of separate elements, to close the ends of the body
- B65D5/10—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper by folding or erecting a single blank to form a tubular body with or without subsequent folding operations, or the addition of separate elements, to close the ends of the body with end closures formed by inward-folding of self-locking flaps hinged to tubular body
- B65D5/103—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper by folding or erecting a single blank to form a tubular body with or without subsequent folding operations, or the addition of separate elements, to close the ends of the body with end closures formed by inward-folding of self-locking flaps hinged to tubular body one of the self-locking flaps having a tongue engaging into an opening of an opposite flap
- B65D5/106—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper by folding or erecting a single blank to form a tubular body with or without subsequent folding operations, or the addition of separate elements, to close the ends of the body with end closures formed by inward-folding of self-locking flaps hinged to tubular body one of the self-locking flaps having a tongue engaging into an opening of an opposite flap the opening being a slot
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/4266—Folding lines, score lines, crease lines
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/44—Integral, inserted or attached portions forming internal or external fittings
- B65D5/46—Handles
- B65D5/46008—Handles formed separately from the container body
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/44—Integral, inserted or attached portions forming internal or external fittings
- B65D5/46—Handles
- B65D5/46008—Handles formed separately from the container body
- B65D5/46024—Straps used as handles with anchoring elements fixed in slots
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/44—Integral, inserted or attached portions forming internal or external fittings
- B65D5/50—Internal supporting or protecting elements for contents
- B65D5/5002—Integral elements for containers having tubular body walls
- B65D5/5011—Integral elements for containers having tubular body walls formed by folding inwardly of extensions hinged to the upper or lower edges of the body
- B65D5/5014—Integral elements for containers having tubular body walls formed by folding inwardly of extensions hinged to the upper or lower edges of the body and with an integral end closure
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/64—Lids
- B65D5/66—Hinged lids
- B65D5/6602—Hinged lids formed by folding one or more extensions hinged to the upper edge of a tubular container body
- B65D5/6608—Hinged lids formed by folding one or more extensions hinged to the upper edge of a tubular container body the lid being held in closed position by self-locking integral flaps
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
- B65D77/04—Articles or materials enclosed in two or more containers disposed one within another
- B65D77/0413—Articles or materials enclosed in two or more containers disposed one within another the inner and outer containers being rigid or semi-rigid and the outer container being of polygonal cross-section formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks, e.g. carton
- B65D77/0426—Articles or materials enclosed in two or more containers disposed one within another the inner and outer containers being rigid or semi-rigid and the outer container being of polygonal cross-section formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks, e.g. carton the inner container being a bottle, canister or like hollow container
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
- B65D77/04—Articles or materials enclosed in two or more containers disposed one within another
- B65D77/06—Liquids or semi-liquids or other materials or articles enclosed in flexible containers disposed within rigid containers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
- B65D77/22—Details
- B65D77/24—Inserts or accessories added or incorporated during filling of containers
- B65D77/245—Utensils for removing the contents from the package, e.g. spoons, forks, spatulas
Definitions
- the invention relates to a container for transporting food products and more particularly to a container assembly for transporting and thermally insulating soup.
- soup ladles or other similar serving utensils are the simplest and most efficient means for serving soup from the container to an individual.
- some hulk soup containers do not provide an opening that is large enough or an ergonomic shape that is conducive to receive the soup ladle or serving utensils while also providing an efficient means for filling the container with the food product.
- some bulk soup containers can be unwieldy and unable to withstand the weight of the bulk soup. Certain containers can also be difficult to assemble.
- a portable container assembly and method of assembling a portable container assembly for transporting soup that is sturdy, ergonomically configured, and substantially maintains a desired temperature of the soup that can also be easily manufactured and assembled has surprisingly been discovered.
- a blank for a sleeve includes a plurality of panels each hingedly coupled to an adjacent one of the plurality of panels.
- a top panel is hingedly coupled to an end of a first one of the plurality of panels.
- the top panel includes a first section and a second section hingedly coupled to the first section.
- the first section has an aperture formed therein. The aperture is configured to receive a portion of a container therethrough.
- the second section has a recess formed in an edge thereof.
- a first flap is hingedly coupled to an end of a second one of the plurality of panels.
- a retaining tab is formed in at least one of the first flap and the second one of the plurality of panels. A portion of the retaining tab is detachable from the at least one of the first flap and the second one of the plurality of panels.
- a container assembly for use in containing a food product.
- the container assembly includes a receptacle having a mouth defining an opening.
- the receptacle is configured to receive a liquid or semi-liquid food product.
- the container assembly includes a sleeve.
- the sleeve has a plurality of sidewalls forming a cavity.
- the sleeve includes a cover hingedly coupled to a first one of the plurality of sidewalls and moveable from an open position to a closed position.
- the cover includes a top wall and plurality of partitions extending from the top wall.
- a first one of the plurality of partitions has a depression formed on an inner surface thereof.
- a retaining tab is hingedly coupled to a second one of the plurality of sidewalls. The retaining tab cooperates with the depression in the closed position of the cover to maintain the cover in the closed position.
- a kit includes at least one blank formable into a sleeve.
- the sleeve including a plurality of sidewalls and a cover hingedly coupled to a first one of the plurality of sidewalls.
- the cover includes a plurality of partitions extending therefrom.
- a first one of the plurality of partitions has a depression formed on an inner surface thereof.
- a second one of the plurality of sidewalls has a retaining tab hingedly coupled thereto.
- the retaining tab cooperates with the depression to maintain the cover in a closed position.
- the kit includes at least one receptacle configured to contain at least one of a liquid and a semi-liquid food product.
- the receptacle has a mouth defining an opening.
- the kit further includes at least one insulation layer configured to envelope the receptacle.
- FIG. 1 is an assembled left side perspective view of a container assembly according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein a lid of the container is in a closed position;
- FIG. 2 is an exploded left side perspective view of the container assembly of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 an assembled top perspective view of the container assembly of FIGS. 1-2 , wherein the lid of the container is in an open position and portions of a sleeve of the container are partially cut away;
- FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the container assembly of FIG. 1 taken along the line 4 - 4 , wherein a retaining tab is engaging with a depression formed in the lid of the container;
- FIG. 5 is a top plan view of a blank for forming the outer shell of the container assembly of FIGS. 1-4 ;
- FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a blank for forming an outer shell of a container assembly according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 1-4 illustrate a portable container assembly 10 configured to contain and transport a liquid or semi-liquid food product such as soup according to an embodiment of the invention.
- the container assembly 10 can be used to contain other food products such as sauces, gravy, dips, drinks, or any other liquid, non-liquid, or semi-liquid food products, as desired.
- the container assembly 10 includes a receptacle 12 , an insulation layer 14 , and a sleeve 16 .
- the receptacle 12 is configured for receiving the food product and may or may not include a handle.
- the receptacle 12 is formed of plastic such as high density polyethelyne configured to tolerate a food product with a high temperature.
- plastic such as high density polyethelyne configured to tolerate a food product with a high temperature.
- Other materials such as polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyethylene pterethalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or other plastics can be employed depending on the desired food product, and the temperature thereof, to be received in the receptacle 12 .
- PET polyethylene pterethalate
- PVC polyvinyl chloride
- the receptacle 12 can be formed from any durable material as desired such as metal or foam, for example, without departing from the scope of the instant disclosure.
- the receptacle 12 is a bulk soup receptacle configured to contain soup in bulk such as a receptacle configured to contain 64 ounces or 128 ounces.
- the receptacle 12 is configured to contain food products having temperatures of about 180 degrees Fahrenheit or 82.2 degrees Celsius.
- the receptacle 12 includes an annular mouth 17 defining an opening 18 configured to receive the food product and a serving utensil 15 therethrough.
- the mouth 17 can be any diameter as desired. In a non-limiting example, the diameter of the mouth is 89 to 110 millimeters or greater to facilitate receiving the utensil 15 .
- a lid 19 is coupled to the mouth 17 of the receptacle 12 to selectively cover the opening 18 of the receptacle 12 .
- the receptacle 12 is any receptacle such as a bottle or pouch, for example, configured to hold food products according to safety and regulatory requirements.
- the receptacle 12 is at least partially received by the insulation layer 14 .
- the insulation layer 14 is configured to insulate the receptacle 12 containing the food product and substantially maintain a temperature thereof.
- the insulation layer 14 is configured to substantially maintain the temperature of a cold food product or substantially maintain the temperature of a hot food product.
- the insulation layer 14 is a preformed, metallized, single-bubble, Y-Fold wrap formed by a heat seal process that envelopes a portion of the receptacle 12 .
- the insulation layer 14 can be any material configured to insulate the receptacle 12 such as a foam, an expanded polystyrene (EPS), a wood based material, a foil, or any other material or combination of materials configured to insulate the food product, for example. Additionally, it is understood the insulation layer 14 can envelope an entirety of the receptacle 12 , if desired.
- EPS expanded polystyrene
- the insulation layer 14 can envelope an entirety of the receptacle 12 , if desired.
- the receptacle 12 and the insulation layer 14 are received within the sleeve 16 , wherein the insulation layer 14 is interposed between the receptacle 12 and the sleeve 16 .
- the sleeve 16 is collapsible and includes a bottom 25 having an automatic bottom set-up, constructed by means of hinged-together bottom flaps (further described hereinbelow), that securely closes the bottom 25 of the sleeve 16 .
- the sleeve 16 can include other types of bottoms now known or later discovered without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- the sleeve 16 is formed from a material such as solid bleached sulphate (SBS) paperboard, E-flute natural kraft corrugated, or any other style fiberboard.
- the sleeve 16 includes a first sidewall 26 a , a second sidewall 26 b , a third sidewall 26 c , and a fourth sidewall 26 d cooperating with each other to define a cavity 28 for receiving the receptacle 12 and the insulation layer 14 . It is understood, the sleeve 16 can include any number of sidewalls such as more than four sidewalls or fewer than four sidewalls, as desired.
- the sleeve 16 includes a cover 20 .
- the cover 20 has a top wall 21 , a first partition 30 a , a second partition 30 b , and a third partition 30 c .
- the top wall 21 is hingedly coupled to the fourth sidewall 26 d for movement between a closed position, as shown in FIG. 1 , and an open position, as shown in FIGS. 2-3 .
- the partitions 30 a , 30 b , 30 c extend from the top wall 21 and partially overlap the first sidewall 26 a , the second sidewall 26 b , and the third sidewall 26 c in the closed position. It is understood more than or fewer than three partitions can be employed, as desired.
- a slot 22 is formed in the top wall 21 .
- the slot 22 is configured for receiving the utensil 15 . More than one slot 22 can be formed in the cover 20 , as desired, to receive various utensils.
- the cover 20 further includes a pair of tabs 32 cooperating with a pair of slits 34 configured to facilitate forming and reinforcing the cover 20 .
- the pair of slits 34 are formed adjacent an edge of the top wall 21 and the pair of tabs 32 extend from the first partition 30 a to engage with the pair of slits 34 .
- the cover 20 includes a rim 23 defining an aperture 24 formed in the top wall 21 thereof.
- the aperture 24 is configured to receive a portion of the receptacle 12 .
- the aperture 24 substantially corresponds to a shape of the mouth 17 of the receptacle 12 .
- the rim 23 includes a substantially curvilinear portion 23 a and a substantially linear portion 23 b to define a segmented circular shape of the aperture 24 .
- the linear portion 23 b is configured to engage with a portion of the receptacle 12 to secure the cover 20 in the closed position.
- the rim 23 can include any number of curvilinear or linear portions to define any shape of the aperture 24 , as desired, such as circular, ovular, polygonal, or any other shape for example.
- the sleeve 16 further includes a handle 36 coupled thereto and configured to facilitate transporting the container assembly 10 .
- the handle 36 shown is an elongate plastic rope handle having substantially T-shaped ends. Each of the ends of the handle 36 is inserted through a respective slot 38 formed in the second sidewall 26 b and the third sidewall 26 c of the sleeve 16 . The ends of the handle 36 engage with an interior surface of the sidewalls 26 b , 26 c so that the handle 36 can support the container assembly 10 during transportation thereof It is understood other handle types and configurations can be used, as desired.
- the sleeve 16 further includes a first flap 40 a , a second flap 40 b , and a third flap 40 c hingedly coupled to and extending from the first sidewall 26 a , the second sidewall 26 b , and the third sidewall 26 c , respectively.
- the flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c are configured to converge inwardly towards the mouth 17 of the receptacle 12 retained in the sleeve 16 .
- the flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c are disposed beneath the top wall 21 of the cover 20 , wherein the cover 20 cooperates with the flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c to maintain an inwardly converging position of the flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c with respect to the sleeve 16 .
- the flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c disposed beneath the top wall 21 are substantially concealed by the top wall 21 .
- the sleeve 16 includes three flaps 401 , 40 b , 40 c and the edges 42 of the flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c have an arcuate shape to correspond to a substantially circular shaped mouth 17 . It is understood, the sleeve 16 can include any number of flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c such as one flap, two flaps, four flaps, five flaps, six flaps, eight flaps, etc. The flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c cooperate with the cover 20 to facilitate improved insulation and durability of the container assembly 10 .
- a depression 44 is formed on an inner surface 45 of the first partition 30 a of the cover 20 .
- the depression 44 is formed on the inner surface 45 of the first partition 30 a of the cover 20 at a distance from a distal edge of the first partition 30 a . It is understood the depression 44 can be formed on the second partition 30 b or the third partition 30 c , if desired.
- the depression 44 is configured to receive a retaining tab 48 hingedly coupled to the first sidewall 26 a of the sleeve 16 .
- the retaining tab 48 is hingedly coupled to an upper end of the first sidewall 26 a .
- the retaining tab 48 can be coupled to the first sidewall 26 a at a distance from the upper end of the first sidewall 26 a.
- the retaining tab 48 In the open position of the cover 20 , the retaining tab 48 extends outwardly from the first sidewall 26 a . In the closed position of the cover 20 , the retaining tab 48 folds against an outer surface of the first sidewall 26 a .
- the retaining tab 48 in the closed position, cooperates with the depression 44 to maintain the cover 20 in the closed position.
- An edge 49 of the retaining tab 48 engages a perimeter surface 43 defining the depression 44 to prevent the cover 20 from pivotally moving from the closed position.
- the retaining tab 48 can be coupled to the second sidewall 26 b or the third sidewall 26 c , if desired.
- the depression 44 can be formed on the second partition 30 b or the third partition 30 c to correspond to the position of the retaining tab 48 , if desired.
- the depression 44 has a shape substantially corresponding to a shape of the retaining tab 48 . As shown, the depression 44 and the retaining tab 48 have a substantially rectangular shape with a pair of bevelled corners. However, the depression 44 and the retaining tab 48 can have other shapes, if desired.
- the depression 44 has a depth substantially equal to a thickness of the retaining tab 48 to militate against a movement of the first partition 30 a outwardly from the sleeve 16 .
- the shell 16 is formed from a one-piece blank 50 made from a corrugated material, flute styled corrugated fiberboard, or any other style corrugated fiberboard.
- the blank 50 includes a first panel 52 , a second panel 54 , a third panel 56 , and a fourth panel 58 to form the respective sidewalls 26 a , 26 b , 26 c , 26 d .
- the panels 52 , 54 , 56 , 58 are each hingedly coupled to at least one adjacent panel 52 , 54 , 56 , 58 along fold lines 51 .
- the fold lines 51 can be formed by perforations, scored marks, or any other means to hingedly couple the panels 52 , 54 . 56 , 58 to each other.
- a securement tab 59 is hingedly coupled to the second panel 54 and configured to facilitate formation of the sidewalls 26 a , 26 b , 26 c , 26 d.
- the blank 50 further includes a first bottom flap 62 hingedly coupled to a first end of the first panel 52 , a second bottom flap 64 hingedly coupled to a first end of the second panel 54 , a third bottom flap 66 hingedly coupled to a first end of the third panel 56 , and a fourth bottom flap 68 hingedly coupled to a first end of the fourth panel 58 .
- the bottom flaps 62 , 64 , 66 , 68 cooperate with each other to form the bottom 25 of the sleeve 16 .
- the bottom flaps 62 , 64 , 66 , 68 are each hingedly coupled to the respective panels 52 , 54 , 56 , 58 along fold lines 61 .
- the fold lines 61 can be formed by perforations, scored marks, or the like, for example.
- the second bottom flap 64 and the third bottom flap 66 can include securement tabs 69 hingedly coupled thereto to facilitate formation of the bottom 25 of the sleeve 16 .
- additional securement tabs 69 can be included on any of the bottom flaps, as desired.
- the blank 50 further includes the flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c as described hereinabove.
- the first flap 40 a is hingedly coupled to a second end of the first panel 52
- the second flap 40 b is hingedly coupled to a second end of the second panel 54
- the third flap 40 c is hingedly coupled to a second end of the third panel 56 .
- the flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c are each hingedly coupled to the respective panels 52 , 54 , 56 along fold lines 41 .
- the fold lines 41 can be formed by perforations, scored marks, or the like, for example.
- the retaining tab 48 is formed in the first flap 40 a and is defined by a portion of the fold line 41 and a perforated line 41 a.
- a top panel 70 configured to form the cover 20 of the shell 16 is hingedly coupled to a second end of the fourth panel 58 along a fold line 71 .
- the fold line 71 can be formed by perforations, scored marks, or the like, for example.
- the top panel 70 is divided into a first section 72 , a second section 74 , a third section 76 , and a fourth section 78 .
- the sections 72 , 74 , 76 , 78 are hingedly coupled to each other along fold lines 81 .
- the fold lines 81 can be formed by perforations, scored marks, or the like, for example.
- the first section 72 is disposed adjacent the fold line 71 and forms the top wall 21 of the cover 20 .
- the first section 72 includes the aperture 24 and the pair of slits 34 for receiving the pair of tabs 32 formed therein.
- the first section 72 additionally includes a knock-out portion 80 for forming the slot 22 of the cover 20 of the shell 16 .
- the knock-out portion 80 is disposed adjacent the fold line 71 and is defined by a portion of the fold line 71 and a perforated line 82 .
- the knock-out portion 80 can be disposed at any portion of the top panel 70 as desired and can be configured to be completely removed or hingedly coupled to the first section 72 .
- the second section 74 , the third section 76 , and the fourth section 78 form the partitions 30 a , 30 b , 30 c , respectively.
- the third section 76 and the fourth section 78 each extend laterally from opposing sides of the first section 72 .
- An engagement tab 90 is hingedly coupled to each of the third section 76 and the fourth section 78 along fold lines 91 .
- the engagement tabs 90 are configured to facilitate formation of the cover 20 .
- the second section 74 extends from the edge of the first section 72 opposing the fold line 71 .
- Each of the third section 76 and the fourth section 78 has a substantially constant width.
- a first end of each of the third section 76 and the fourth section 78 adjacent the panels 52 , 54 , 56 , 58 is tapered, wherein the width decreases at a constant rate towards the panels 52 , 54 , 56 , 58 .
- the tapered first end militates against an interference of the third sub-section 76 and the fourth sub-section 78 with the respective flaps 40 b , 40 c.
- the second section 74 is divided into a first sub-section 84 adjacent the first section 72 , a second sub-section 86 , and a third sub-section 88 .
- the sub-sections 84 , 86 , 88 are hingedly coupled to each other along perforated fold lines 92 .
- the first sub-section 84 and the third sub-section 88 each have a width substantially equal to a second end of the third section 76 and the fourth section 78 .
- the second sub-section 86 is disposed intermediate the first sub-section 84 and the third sub-section 88 and has a width substantially equal to a thickness of the engagement tabs 90 .
- the pair of tabs 32 extend outwardly from a distal edge of the third sub-section 88 .
- the third sub-section 88 includes a recess 93 formed intermediate the pair of tabs 32 in the distal edge of the third sub-section 88 . It is understood the top panel 70 can include other configurations as desired. For example, the top panel 70 can include any number of sections and sub-sections to form the cover 20 .
- the sidewalls 26 a , 26 b , 26 c , 26 d are formed by folding the panels 52 , 54 , 56 , 58 along the fold lines 51 and securing the securement tab 59 to the first panel 52 .
- the bottom flaps 62 , 64 , 66 , 68 are folded along the fold lines 61 and cooperate with each other to form the bottom 25 of the sleeve 16 .
- the flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c are folded along the fold lines 41 to converge inwardly with respect to the shell 16 .
- the top panel 70 is then manipulated to form the cover 20 of the shell 16 .
- the second section 74 , the third section 76 , and the fourth section 78 are folded along fold lines 81 towards the sidewalls 26 a , 26 b , 26 c , 26 d .
- the third section 76 and the fourth section 78 form the second partition 30 b and the third partition 30 c , respectively.
- the engagement tabs 90 are then folded along fold lines 91 towards each other to abut an inner surface of the second section 74 at the first sub-section 84 thereof.
- the second section 74 is folded upon itself along the fold lines 91 to envelope the engagement tabs 90 and form the first partition 30 a .
- the second section 74 envelopes the engagement tabs 90 so the first sub-section 84 is substantially parallel to the third sub-section 88 and the second sub-section 86 is substantially perpendicular to the first sub-section 84 and the third sub-section 88 .
- the pair of tabs 32 cooperate with the pair of slits 34 to maintain the second section 74 in a position enveloped about the engagement tabs 90 to form and reinforce the first partition 30 a .
- the recess 93 of the third sub-section 88 cooperates with the first sub-section 84 to form the depression 44 in the first partition 30 a of the cover 20 .
- the cover 20 can then be folded about the fold line 71 to move from the open position to the closed position as desired.
- the retaining tab 48 can be detached along the perforated line 41 a to position the retaining tab 48 in a position extending outwardly from the first sidewall 26 a and the first flap 40 a of the sleeve 16 .
- the knock-out portion 80 of the blank 50 can be separated along the perforated lines 82 and folded along the fold line 71 to form the slot 22 for receiving the utensil 15 .
- the receptacle 12 is positioned within the insulation layer 14 so that the insulation layer 14 either partially or entirely envelopes the receptacle 12 .
- the sleeve 16 can be stored flat and easily opened by forming and securing the bottom 25 .
- the receptacle 12 and insulation layer 14 are positioned within the sleeve 16 so the sleeve 16 covers a substantial portion of the receptacle 12 and insulation layer 14 .
- the flaps 40 a , 40 b , 40 c are folded about the fold lines 41 and are urged to an inwardly converging position to engage with the mouth 17 of the receptacle 12 or the lid 19 .
- the cover 20 is moved from the open position to the closed position so that the mouth 17 and the lid 19 are received through the aperture 24 formed therein.
- the inner surface 45 of the first partition 30 a contacts the retaining tab 48 and applies force thereto.
- the force applied to the retaining tab 48 causes the retaining tab 48 to pivot about the fold line 41 and fold against the outer surface of the first sidewall 26 a of the sleeve 16 .
- the retaining tab 48 is received in the depression 44 of the cover 20 .
- the edge 49 of the retaining tab 48 engages the perimeter surface 43 of the depression 44 to prevent the cover 20 from moving towards the open position and maintain the cover 20 in the closed position.
- the substantially linear portion 23 b of the rim 23 engages with the mouth 17 and/or the lid 19 to maintain the cover 20 in the closed position.
- Each of the ends of the handle 36 are inserted through a respective slot 38 formed in the second sidewall 26 b and the third sidewall 26 c so that the container assembly 10 can be easily and safely transported.
- the utensil 15 can be inserted through the slot 22 .
- the receptacle 12 is filled with a food product such as hot soup.
- the mouth 17 of the receptacle 12 facilitates quick transfer of the food product to the receptacle 12 .
- the lid 19 is coupled to the receptacle 12 to close the opening 18 .
- the insulation layer 14 insulates the food product within the receptacle 12 thereby facilitating a minimal temperature drop over a period of time such as the time of travel from the food retailers to a designated delivery event location.
- the sleeve 16 further facilitates insulation and provides a portable containing means for transporting food products.
- the configuration of the sleeve 16 is durable and easy to assemble.
- the container assembly 10 can militate against a temperature drop of more than 5-10 degrees Fahrenheit per hour.
- a kit can be provided, manufactured, or sold that includes at least one blank 50 for forming the shell 16 , at least one insulation layer 14 , and at least one receptacle 12 .
- the kit can include the blank 50 unassembled, fully assembled or partially assembled as the shell 16 .
- the kit can also include the utensil 15 , the handle 36 , and other component desired for transporting the food product.
- the container assembly 10 can be assembled either prior to filling the receptacle 12 with the liquid or semi-liquid food product or after filling the receptacle 12 with the liquid or semi-liquid food product.
- the container assembly 10 can be pre-assembled and packaged in bulk shippers and delivered in units of six or twelve, for example, to the food retailers, restaurants, caterers, etc.
- the retail food providers only are required to remove the lid 19 , fill the receptacle 12 with the food product, replace the lid 19 , and provide the take-out, delivery, or catered service.
- FIG. 6 illustrates a blank 50 according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the same reference numerals are used in FIG. 6 to describe those components that are similar to the components of FIG. 1 without further description with a leading numeral “1”.
- the blank 50 illustrated in FIG. 6 is substantially similar to and assembled in substantially the same manner as indicated hereinabove with reference to the blank 50 of FIG. 5 , except the position of the retaining tab 48 on the first sidewall 26 a, the configuration of the third section 76 and fourth section 78 of the top panel 70 forming the cover 20 , and the shape of the edge 42 of the first flap 40 a are different from the blank 50 of FIG. 5 .
- a first portion of the retaining tab 48 is formed in the first panel 52 and a second portion of the retaining tab 48 is formed in the first flap 40 a .
- the retaining tab 48 is defined by a fold line 98 and the perforated line 41 a.
- the fold line 98 is formed in the first panel 52 at a distance from the fold line 41 . It is understood, the retaining tab 48 can be formed entirely on the first panel 52 , if desired.
- the position of the retaining tab 48 on the blank 50 depends on the width of the first sub-section 84 and the third sub-section 88 forming the first partition 30 a of the sleeve 16 . The larger the width of the first sub-section 84 and the third sub-section 88 , the further the fold line 98 can be positioned on the first panel 52 from the fold line 41 .
- a second end of each of the third section 76 and the fourth section 78 opposing the first end adjacent the panels 52 , 54 , 56 , 58 is also tapered, wherein the width increases at a constant rate away from the panels 52 , 54 , 56 , 58 towards the fold line 91 .
- the tapered second end of each of the third section 76 and the fourth section 78 accommodates an increase in the width of the first sub-section 84 and the third sub-section 88 .
- the width of third section 76 and the fourth section 78 can be constant or varying at any portion thereof.
- the width of the third section 76 and the fourth section 78 can decrease at a constant rate from the fold line 91 to the fold line 71 .
- the edge 42 of the first flap 40 a is substantially arcuate as described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 5 and includes a linear portion 102 .
- the linear portion 102 is configured to engage with a portion of the receptacle 12 to maintain the inwardly converging position of the first flap 40 a with respect to the sleeve 16 .
- the first flap 40 a includes the linear portion 102 .
- the second flap 40 b and the third flap 40 c can also include a linear portion to maintain the inwardly converging positions thereof.
Abstract
A blank for a sleeve includes a plurality of panels, each of the plurality of panels hingedly coupled to an adjacent one of the plurality of panels. A top panel is hingedly coupled to an end of a first one of the plurality of panels. The top panel includes a first section and a second section hingedly coupled to the first section. The first section has an aperture formed therein. The aperture is configured to receive a portion of a container therethrough. The second section has a recess formed in an edge thereof. A first flap is hingedly coupled to an end of a second one of the plurality of panels. A retaining tab is formed in in a least one of the first flap and the second one of the plurality of panels.
Description
- The invention relates to a container for transporting food products and more particularly to a container assembly for transporting and thermally insulating soup.
- Many commercial prepared food retailers, restaurants, catering services, and the like provide catering, delivery, or to-go services for consumers for multi-person gatherings such as meetings, parties, or other events. Due to factors such as speed, affordability, and health, soup has become an increasingly common and desired food option for consumers. In order to provide for multi-person gatherings, portable bulk soup containers exist in order to transport the soup from the food provider's facility to the designated location of the gathering.
- However, many problems exist in transporting soup. Initially, certain soups must maintain a certain range of temperatures for quality assurance and/or regulatory reasons. Current containers are unable to substantially maintain the desired range of temperatures of the soup. Additionally, soup ladles or other similar serving utensils are the simplest and most efficient means for serving soup from the container to an individual. However, some hulk soup containers do not provide an opening that is large enough or an ergonomic shape that is conducive to receive the soup ladle or serving utensils while also providing an efficient means for filling the container with the food product. Furthermore, some bulk soup containers can be unwieldy and unable to withstand the weight of the bulk soup. Certain containers can also be difficult to assemble.
- It would therefore be desirable to provide a portable container assembly for transporting soup that is sturdy, ergonomically configured, and substantially maintains a desired temperature of the soup that can also be easily manufactured and assembled.
- Compatible and attuned with the present invention, a portable container assembly and method of assembling a portable container assembly for transporting soup that is sturdy, ergonomically configured, and substantially maintains a desired temperature of the soup that can also be easily manufactured and assembled has surprisingly been discovered.
- According to an embodiment of the invention a blank for a sleeve is disclosed. The blank includes a plurality of panels each hingedly coupled to an adjacent one of the plurality of panels. A top panel is hingedly coupled to an end of a first one of the plurality of panels. The top panel includes a first section and a second section hingedly coupled to the first section. The first section has an aperture formed therein. The aperture is configured to receive a portion of a container therethrough. The second section has a recess formed in an edge thereof. A first flap is hingedly coupled to an end of a second one of the plurality of panels. A retaining tab is formed in at least one of the first flap and the second one of the plurality of panels. A portion of the retaining tab is detachable from the at least one of the first flap and the second one of the plurality of panels.
- According to another embodiment of the invention a container assembly for use in containing a food product is disclosed. The container assembly includes a receptacle having a mouth defining an opening. The receptacle is configured to receive a liquid or semi-liquid food product. The container assembly includes a sleeve. The sleeve has a plurality of sidewalls forming a cavity. The sleeve includes a cover hingedly coupled to a first one of the plurality of sidewalls and moveable from an open position to a closed position. The cover includes a top wall and plurality of partitions extending from the top wall. A first one of the plurality of partitions has a depression formed on an inner surface thereof. A retaining tab is hingedly coupled to a second one of the plurality of sidewalls. The retaining tab cooperates with the depression in the closed position of the cover to maintain the cover in the closed position.
- According to another embodiment of the invention, a kit includes at least one blank formable into a sleeve. The sleeve including a plurality of sidewalls and a cover hingedly coupled to a first one of the plurality of sidewalls. The cover includes a plurality of partitions extending therefrom. A first one of the plurality of partitions has a depression formed on an inner surface thereof. A second one of the plurality of sidewalls has a retaining tab hingedly coupled thereto. The retaining tab cooperates with the depression to maintain the cover in a closed position. The kit includes at least one receptacle configured to contain at least one of a liquid and a semi-liquid food product. The receptacle has a mouth defining an opening. The kit further includes at least one insulation layer configured to envelope the receptacle.
- The above, as well as other objects and advantages of the invention, will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from reading the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment of the invention when considered in the light of the accompanying drawings which:
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FIG. 1 is an assembled left side perspective view of a container assembly according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein a lid of the container is in a closed position; -
FIG. 2 is an exploded left side perspective view of the container assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 an assembled top perspective view of the container assembly ofFIGS. 1-2 , wherein the lid of the container is in an open position and portions of a sleeve of the container are partially cut away; -
FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the container assembly ofFIG. 1 taken along the line 4-4, wherein a retaining tab is engaging with a depression formed in the lid of the container; -
FIG. 5 is a top plan view of a blank for forming the outer shell of the container assembly ofFIGS. 1-4 ; and -
FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a blank for forming an outer shell of a container assembly according to another embodiment of the invention. - The following detailed description and appended drawings describe and illustrate various embodiments of the invention. The description and drawings serve to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any manner. The terms “bottom,” “top,” and “side” are for purposes of relative orientation only and not as an absolute position. In respect of the methods disclosed, the steps presented are exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps is not necessary or critical.
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FIGS. 1-4 illustrate aportable container assembly 10 configured to contain and transport a liquid or semi-liquid food product such as soup according to an embodiment of the invention. However, it is understood thecontainer assembly 10 can be used to contain other food products such as sauces, gravy, dips, drinks, or any other liquid, non-liquid, or semi-liquid food products, as desired. Thecontainer assembly 10 includes areceptacle 12, aninsulation layer 14, and asleeve 16. - The
receptacle 12 is configured for receiving the food product and may or may not include a handle. In certain embodiments, thereceptacle 12 is formed of plastic such as high density polyethelyne configured to tolerate a food product with a high temperature. Other materials such as polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyethylene pterethalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or other plastics can be employed depending on the desired food product, and the temperature thereof, to be received in thereceptacle 12. However, it is understood thereceptacle 12 can be formed from any durable material as desired such as metal or foam, for example, without departing from the scope of the instant disclosure. In a non-limiting example, thereceptacle 12 is a bulk soup receptacle configured to contain soup in bulk such as a receptacle configured to contain 64 ounces or 128 ounces. Thereceptacle 12 is configured to contain food products having temperatures of about 180 degrees Fahrenheit or 82.2 degrees Celsius. - The
receptacle 12 includes anannular mouth 17 defining anopening 18 configured to receive the food product and a servingutensil 15 therethrough. Themouth 17 can be any diameter as desired. In a non-limiting example, the diameter of the mouth is 89 to 110 millimeters or greater to facilitate receiving theutensil 15. Alid 19 is coupled to themouth 17 of thereceptacle 12 to selectively cover theopening 18 of thereceptacle 12. Thereceptacle 12 is any receptacle such as a bottle or pouch, for example, configured to hold food products according to safety and regulatory requirements. - The
receptacle 12 is at least partially received by theinsulation layer 14. Theinsulation layer 14 is configured to insulate thereceptacle 12 containing the food product and substantially maintain a temperature thereof. In certain embodiments, theinsulation layer 14 is configured to substantially maintain the temperature of a cold food product or substantially maintain the temperature of a hot food product. In certain embodiments, theinsulation layer 14 is a preformed, metallized, single-bubble, Y-Fold wrap formed by a heat seal process that envelopes a portion of thereceptacle 12. However, theinsulation layer 14 can be any material configured to insulate thereceptacle 12 such as a foam, an expanded polystyrene (EPS), a wood based material, a foil, or any other material or combination of materials configured to insulate the food product, for example. Additionally, it is understood theinsulation layer 14 can envelope an entirety of thereceptacle 12, if desired. - The
receptacle 12 and theinsulation layer 14 are received within thesleeve 16, wherein theinsulation layer 14 is interposed between thereceptacle 12 and thesleeve 16. Thesleeve 16 is collapsible and includes a bottom 25 having an automatic bottom set-up, constructed by means of hinged-together bottom flaps (further described hereinbelow), that securely closes the bottom 25 of thesleeve 16. However, it is understood thesleeve 16 can include other types of bottoms now known or later discovered without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thesleeve 16 is formed from a material such as solid bleached sulphate (SBS) paperboard, E-flute natural kraft corrugated, or any other style fiberboard. Thesleeve 16 includes afirst sidewall 26 a, asecond sidewall 26 b, athird sidewall 26 c, and afourth sidewall 26 d cooperating with each other to define acavity 28 for receiving thereceptacle 12 and theinsulation layer 14. It is understood, thesleeve 16 can include any number of sidewalls such as more than four sidewalls or fewer than four sidewalls, as desired. - The
sleeve 16 includes acover 20. Thecover 20 has atop wall 21, afirst partition 30 a, asecond partition 30 b, and athird partition 30 c. Thetop wall 21 is hingedly coupled to thefourth sidewall 26 d for movement between a closed position, as shown inFIG. 1 , and an open position, as shown inFIGS. 2-3 . Thepartitions top wall 21 and partially overlap thefirst sidewall 26 a, thesecond sidewall 26 b, and thethird sidewall 26 c in the closed position. It is understood more than or fewer than three partitions can be employed, as desired. In certain embodiments, aslot 22 is formed in thetop wall 21. Theslot 22 is configured for receiving theutensil 15. More than oneslot 22 can be formed in thecover 20, as desired, to receive various utensils. - In the embodiment illustrated, the
cover 20 further includes a pair oftabs 32 cooperating with a pair ofslits 34 configured to facilitate forming and reinforcing thecover 20. The pair ofslits 34 are formed adjacent an edge of thetop wall 21 and the pair oftabs 32 extend from thefirst partition 30 a to engage with the pair ofslits 34. - The
cover 20 includes arim 23 defining anaperture 24 formed in thetop wall 21 thereof. Theaperture 24 is configured to receive a portion of thereceptacle 12. Theaperture 24 substantially corresponds to a shape of themouth 17 of thereceptacle 12. In the embodiment illustrated, therim 23 includes a substantiallycurvilinear portion 23 a and a substantiallylinear portion 23 b to define a segmented circular shape of theaperture 24. Thelinear portion 23 b is configured to engage with a portion of thereceptacle 12 to secure thecover 20 in the closed position. However, it is understood therim 23 can include any number of curvilinear or linear portions to define any shape of theaperture 24, as desired, such as circular, ovular, polygonal, or any other shape for example. - The
sleeve 16 further includes ahandle 36 coupled thereto and configured to facilitate transporting thecontainer assembly 10. Thehandle 36 shown is an elongate plastic rope handle having substantially T-shaped ends. Each of the ends of thehandle 36 is inserted through arespective slot 38 formed in thesecond sidewall 26 b and thethird sidewall 26 c of thesleeve 16. The ends of thehandle 36 engage with an interior surface of the sidewalls 26 b, 26 c so that thehandle 36 can support thecontainer assembly 10 during transportation thereof It is understood other handle types and configurations can be used, as desired. - The
sleeve 16 further includes afirst flap 40 a, asecond flap 40 b, and athird flap 40 c hingedly coupled to and extending from thefirst sidewall 26 a, thesecond sidewall 26 b, and thethird sidewall 26 c, respectively. Theflaps mouth 17 of thereceptacle 12 retained in thesleeve 16. In the closed position, theflaps top wall 21 of thecover 20, wherein thecover 20 cooperates with theflaps flaps sleeve 16. When thecover 20 is in the closed position, theflaps top wall 21 are substantially concealed by thetop wall 21. In the embodiment shown, thesleeve 16 includes threeflaps edges 42 of theflaps mouth 17. It is understood, thesleeve 16 can include any number offlaps flaps cover 20 to facilitate improved insulation and durability of thecontainer assembly 10. - As more clearly illustrated in
FIGS. 2-4 , adepression 44 is formed on aninner surface 45 of thefirst partition 30 a of thecover 20. Thedepression 44 is formed on theinner surface 45 of thefirst partition 30 a of thecover 20 at a distance from a distal edge of thefirst partition 30 a. It is understood thedepression 44 can be formed on thesecond partition 30 b or thethird partition 30 c, if desired. Thedepression 44 is configured to receive aretaining tab 48 hingedly coupled to thefirst sidewall 26 a of thesleeve 16. In the embodiment illustrated, the retainingtab 48 is hingedly coupled to an upper end of thefirst sidewall 26 a. However, it is understood the retainingtab 48 can be coupled to thefirst sidewall 26 a at a distance from the upper end of thefirst sidewall 26 a. - In the open position of the
cover 20, the retainingtab 48 extends outwardly from thefirst sidewall 26 a. In the closed position of thecover 20, the retainingtab 48 folds against an outer surface of thefirst sidewall 26 a. Advantageously, in the closed position, the retainingtab 48 cooperates with thedepression 44 to maintain thecover 20 in the closed position. Anedge 49 of the retainingtab 48 engages aperimeter surface 43 defining thedepression 44 to prevent thecover 20 from pivotally moving from the closed position. It is understood the retainingtab 48 can be coupled to thesecond sidewall 26 b or thethird sidewall 26 c, if desired. Additionally, thedepression 44 can be formed on thesecond partition 30 b or thethird partition 30 c to correspond to the position of the retainingtab 48, if desired. - The
depression 44 has a shape substantially corresponding to a shape of the retainingtab 48. As shown, thedepression 44 and the retainingtab 48 have a substantially rectangular shape with a pair of bevelled corners. However, thedepression 44 and the retainingtab 48 can have other shapes, if desired. Thedepression 44 has a depth substantially equal to a thickness of the retainingtab 48 to militate against a movement of thefirst partition 30 a outwardly from thesleeve 16. - As shown in
FIG. 5 , theshell 16 is formed from a one-piece blank 50 made from a corrugated material, flute styled corrugated fiberboard, or any other style corrugated fiberboard. However, similar paper-based materials, having similar performance characteristics, may be employed if desired as well as corrugated plastics or non-corrugated plastics, or other foldable material. The blank 50 includes afirst panel 52, asecond panel 54, athird panel 56, and afourth panel 58 to form therespective sidewalls panels adjacent panel panels securement tab 59 is hingedly coupled to thesecond panel 54 and configured to facilitate formation of the sidewalls 26 a, 26 b, 26 c, 26 d. - The blank 50 further includes a
first bottom flap 62 hingedly coupled to a first end of thefirst panel 52, asecond bottom flap 64 hingedly coupled to a first end of thesecond panel 54, a thirdbottom flap 66 hingedly coupled to a first end of thethird panel 56, and afourth bottom flap 68 hingedly coupled to a first end of thefourth panel 58. The bottom flaps 62, 64, 66, 68 cooperate with each other to form the bottom 25 of thesleeve 16. The bottom flaps 62, 64, 66, 68 are each hingedly coupled to therespective panels second bottom flap 64 and the thirdbottom flap 66 can includesecurement tabs 69 hingedly coupled thereto to facilitate formation of the bottom 25 of thesleeve 16. Although, it is understandadditional securement tabs 69 can be included on any of the bottom flaps, as desired. - The blank 50 further includes the
flaps first flap 40 a is hingedly coupled to a second end of thefirst panel 52, thesecond flap 40 b is hingedly coupled to a second end of thesecond panel 54, and thethird flap 40 c is hingedly coupled to a second end of thethird panel 56. Theflaps respective panels tab 48 is formed in thefirst flap 40 a and is defined by a portion of thefold line 41 and aperforated line 41 a. - A
top panel 70 configured to form thecover 20 of theshell 16 is hingedly coupled to a second end of thefourth panel 58 along afold line 71. Thefold line 71 can be formed by perforations, scored marks, or the like, for example. Thetop panel 70 is divided into afirst section 72, asecond section 74, athird section 76, and afourth section 78. Thesections - The
first section 72 is disposed adjacent thefold line 71 and forms thetop wall 21 of thecover 20. Thefirst section 72 includes theaperture 24 and the pair ofslits 34 for receiving the pair oftabs 32 formed therein. In certain embodiments, thefirst section 72 additionally includes a knock-outportion 80 for forming theslot 22 of thecover 20 of theshell 16. The knock-outportion 80 is disposed adjacent thefold line 71 and is defined by a portion of thefold line 71 and aperforated line 82. However, it is understood, the knock-outportion 80 can be disposed at any portion of thetop panel 70 as desired and can be configured to be completely removed or hingedly coupled to thefirst section 72. - The
second section 74, thethird section 76, and thefourth section 78 form thepartitions third section 76 and thefourth section 78 each extend laterally from opposing sides of thefirst section 72. Anengagement tab 90 is hingedly coupled to each of thethird section 76 and thefourth section 78 along fold lines 91. Theengagement tabs 90 are configured to facilitate formation of thecover 20. Thesecond section 74 extends from the edge of thefirst section 72 opposing thefold line 71. Each of thethird section 76 and thefourth section 78 has a substantially constant width. A first end of each of thethird section 76 and thefourth section 78 adjacent thepanels panels third sub-section 76 and thefourth sub-section 78 with therespective flaps - The
second section 74 is divided into afirst sub-section 84 adjacent thefirst section 72, asecond sub-section 86, and athird sub-section 88. Thesub-sections first sub-section 84 and thethird sub-section 88 each have a width substantially equal to a second end of thethird section 76 and thefourth section 78. Thesecond sub-section 86 is disposed intermediate thefirst sub-section 84 and thethird sub-section 88 and has a width substantially equal to a thickness of theengagement tabs 90. The pair oftabs 32 extend outwardly from a distal edge of thethird sub-section 88. Thethird sub-section 88 includes arecess 93 formed intermediate the pair oftabs 32 in the distal edge of thethird sub-section 88. It is understood thetop panel 70 can include other configurations as desired. For example, thetop panel 70 can include any number of sections and sub-sections to form thecover 20. - To assemble the
shell 16 from the blank 50, thesidewalls panels securement tab 59 to thefirst panel 52. The bottom flaps 62, 64, 66, 68 are folded along the fold lines 61 and cooperate with each other to form the bottom 25 of thesleeve 16. Theflaps fold lines 41 to converge inwardly with respect to theshell 16. Thetop panel 70 is then manipulated to form thecover 20 of theshell 16. - To form the
cover 20, thesecond section 74, thethird section 76, and thefourth section 78 are folded alongfold lines 81 towards thesidewalls third section 76 and thefourth section 78 form thesecond partition 30 b and thethird partition 30 c, respectively. Theengagement tabs 90 are then folded alongfold lines 91 towards each other to abut an inner surface of thesecond section 74 at thefirst sub-section 84 thereof. Thesecond section 74 is folded upon itself along thefold lines 91 to envelope theengagement tabs 90 and form thefirst partition 30 a. Thesecond section 74 envelopes theengagement tabs 90 so thefirst sub-section 84 is substantially parallel to thethird sub-section 88 and thesecond sub-section 86 is substantially perpendicular to thefirst sub-section 84 and thethird sub-section 88. The pair oftabs 32 cooperate with the pair ofslits 34 to maintain thesecond section 74 in a position enveloped about theengagement tabs 90 to form and reinforce thefirst partition 30 a. Therecess 93 of thethird sub-section 88 cooperates with thefirst sub-section 84 to form thedepression 44 in thefirst partition 30 a of thecover 20. - Once formed, the
cover 20 can then be folded about thefold line 71 to move from the open position to the closed position as desired. The retainingtab 48 can be detached along theperforated line 41 a to position the retainingtab 48 in a position extending outwardly from thefirst sidewall 26 a and thefirst flap 40 a of thesleeve 16. The knock-outportion 80 of the blank 50 can be separated along theperforated lines 82 and folded along thefold line 71 to form theslot 22 for receiving theutensil 15. - To assemble the
container assembly 10, thereceptacle 12 is positioned within theinsulation layer 14 so that theinsulation layer 14 either partially or entirely envelopes thereceptacle 12. Thesleeve 16 can be stored flat and easily opened by forming and securing the bottom 25. Thereceptacle 12 andinsulation layer 14 are positioned within thesleeve 16 so thesleeve 16 covers a substantial portion of thereceptacle 12 andinsulation layer 14. Theflaps mouth 17 of thereceptacle 12 or thelid 19. Thecover 20 is moved from the open position to the closed position so that themouth 17 and thelid 19 are received through theaperture 24 formed therein. As thecover 20 moves from the open position to the closed position, theinner surface 45 of thefirst partition 30 a contacts the retainingtab 48 and applies force thereto. The force applied to the retainingtab 48 causes the retainingtab 48 to pivot about thefold line 41 and fold against the outer surface of thefirst sidewall 26 a of thesleeve 16. In the closed position, the retainingtab 48 is received in thedepression 44 of thecover 20. Theedge 49 of the retainingtab 48 engages theperimeter surface 43 of thedepression 44 to prevent thecover 20 from moving towards the open position and maintain thecover 20 in the closed position. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the substantiallylinear portion 23 b of therim 23 engages with themouth 17 and/or thelid 19 to maintain thecover 20 in the closed position. - Each of the ends of the
handle 36 are inserted through arespective slot 38 formed in thesecond sidewall 26 b and thethird sidewall 26 c so that thecontainer assembly 10 can be easily and safely transported. Theutensil 15 can be inserted through theslot 22. - In application, the
receptacle 12 is filled with a food product such as hot soup. Themouth 17 of thereceptacle 12 facilitates quick transfer of the food product to thereceptacle 12. Thelid 19 is coupled to thereceptacle 12 to close theopening 18. Advantageously, theinsulation layer 14 insulates the food product within thereceptacle 12 thereby facilitating a minimal temperature drop over a period of time such as the time of travel from the food retailers to a designated delivery event location. Thesleeve 16 further facilitates insulation and provides a portable containing means for transporting food products. The configuration of thesleeve 16 is durable and easy to assemble. - In non-limiting examples, the
container assembly 10 can militate against a temperature drop of more than 5-10 degrees Fahrenheit per hour. In certain embodiments, a kit can be provided, manufactured, or sold that includes at least one blank 50 for forming theshell 16, at least oneinsulation layer 14, and at least onereceptacle 12. The kit can include the blank 50 unassembled, fully assembled or partially assembled as theshell 16. The kit can also include theutensil 15, thehandle 36, and other component desired for transporting the food product. - It is understood that the
container assembly 10 can be assembled either prior to filling thereceptacle 12 with the liquid or semi-liquid food product or after filling thereceptacle 12 with the liquid or semi-liquid food product. In certain embodiments, thecontainer assembly 10 can be pre-assembled and packaged in bulk shippers and delivered in units of six or twelve, for example, to the food retailers, restaurants, caterers, etc. - According to this embodiment, the retail food providers only are required to remove the
lid 19, fill thereceptacle 12 with the food product, replace thelid 19, and provide the take-out, delivery, or catered service. -
FIG. 6 illustrates a blank 50 according to another embodiment of the invention. The same reference numerals are used inFIG. 6 to describe those components that are similar to the components ofFIG. 1 without further description with a leading numeral “1”. The blank 50 illustrated inFIG. 6 is substantially similar to and assembled in substantially the same manner as indicated hereinabove with reference to the blank 50 ofFIG. 5 , except the position of the retainingtab 48 on thefirst sidewall 26 a, the configuration of thethird section 76 andfourth section 78 of thetop panel 70 forming thecover 20, and the shape of theedge 42 of thefirst flap 40 a are different from the blank 50 ofFIG. 5 . - As illustrated in
FIG. 6 , a first portion of the retainingtab 48 is formed in thefirst panel 52 and a second portion of the retainingtab 48 is formed in thefirst flap 40 a. The retainingtab 48 is defined by a fold line 98 and theperforated line 41 a. The fold line 98 is formed in thefirst panel 52 at a distance from thefold line 41. It is understood, the retainingtab 48 can be formed entirely on thefirst panel 52, if desired. The position of the retainingtab 48 on the blank 50 depends on the width of thefirst sub-section 84 and thethird sub-section 88 forming thefirst partition 30 a of thesleeve 16. The larger the width of thefirst sub-section 84 and thethird sub-section 88, the further the fold line 98 can be positioned on thefirst panel 52 from thefold line 41. - In the embodiment illustrated, a second end of each of the
third section 76 and thefourth section 78 opposing the first end adjacent thepanels panels fold line 91. The tapered second end of each of thethird section 76 and thefourth section 78 accommodates an increase in the width of thefirst sub-section 84 and thethird sub-section 88. It is understood the width ofthird section 76 and thefourth section 78 can be constant or varying at any portion thereof. For example, the width of thethird section 76 and thefourth section 78 can decrease at a constant rate from thefold line 91 to thefold line 71. - The
edge 42 of thefirst flap 40 a is substantially arcuate as described hereinabove with reference toFIG. 5 and includes alinear portion 102. Thelinear portion 102 is configured to engage with a portion of thereceptacle 12 to maintain the inwardly converging position of thefirst flap 40 a with respect to thesleeve 16. In the embodiment shown, thefirst flap 40 a includes thelinear portion 102. However, it is understood thesecond flap 40 b and thethird flap 40 c can also include a linear portion to maintain the inwardly converging positions thereof. - From the foregoing description, one ordinarily skilled in the art can easily ascertain the essential characteristics of this invention and, without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, can make various changes and modifications to the invention to adapt it to various usages and conditions.
Claims (20)
1. A blank for a sleeve comprising:
a plurality of panels, each of the plurality of panels hingedly coupled to an adjacent one of the plurality of panels;
a top panel hingedly coupled to an end of a first one of the plurality of panels, the top panel including a first section and a second section hingedly coupled to the first section, the first section having an aperture formed therein, the aperture configured to receive a portion of a container therethrough, the second section having a recess formed in an edge thereof;
a first flap hingedly coupled to an end of a second one of the plurality of panels; and
a retaining tab formed in at least one of the first flap and the second one of the plurality of panels, a portion of the retaining tab detachable from the at least one of the first flap and the second one of the plurality of panels.
2. The blank of claim 1 , wherein a shape of the retaining tab substantially conforms to a shape of the recess.
3. The blank of claim 1 , wherein the retaining tab is formed in the first flap and a perimeter of the retaining tab is defined by a fold line and a perforated line.
4. The blank of claim 1 , wherein the retaining tab is partially formed in the second one of the plurality of panels and a perimeter of the retaining tab is defined by a fold line and a perforated line.
5. The blank of claim 1 , wherein a third one of the plurality of panels is disposed intermediate the first one of the plurality of panels and the second one of the plurality of panels.
6. The blank of claim 5 , wherein the third one of the plurality of panels includes a second flap hingedly coupled to an end thereof.
7. The blank of claim 1 , wherein the first section of the top panel includes a pair of slits and the second section includes a pair of tabs extending from the edge thereof, the pair of tabs aligning with the pair of slits, the recess formed intermediate the pair of tabs.
8. The blank of claim 1 , wherein the top panel includes a third section and a fourth section hingedly coupled to and extending laterally outwardly from the first section, each of the third section and the fourth section having a first end adjacent the plurality of panels and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the first end is tapered.
9. The blank of claim 8 , wherein the second end of each of the third section and the fourth section is tapered.
10. A container assembly for use in containing a food product comprising:
a receptacle having a mouth defining an opening, the receptacle configured to receive a liquid or semi-liquid food product;
a sleeve having a plurality of sidewalls forming a cavity, the sleeve including a cover hingedly coupled to a first one of the plurality of sidewalls and moveable from an open position to a closed position, the cover including a top wall and plurality of partitions extending outwardly from the top wall, a first one of the plurality of partitions having a depression formed on an inner surface thereof; and
a retaining tab hingedly coupled to a second one of the plurality of sidewalls, the retaining tab cooperating with the depression in the closed position of the cover to maintain the cover in the closed position.
11. The container assembly of claim 10 , further comprising an insulation layer at least partially enveloping the receptacle and retained by the sleeve.
12. The container assembly of claim 10 , wherein an edge of the retaining tab engages a perimeter surface defining the depression in the closed position of the cover.
13. The container assembly of claim 10 , wherein the retaining tab folds against an outer surface of the second one of the plurality of sidewalls in the closed position of the cover.
14. The container assembly of claim 10 , wherein the sleeve includes a flap hingedly coupled to the second one of the plurality of sidewalls, the flap configured to converge towards the receptacle, the flap disposed beneath the cover in the closed position of the cover.
15. The container assembly of claim 14 , wherein an edge of the flap has an arcuate shape.
16. The container assembly of claim 15 , wherein the edge of the flap has a linear portion.
17. A kit comprising:
at least one blank formable into a sleeve, the sleeve including a plurality of sidewalls and a cover hingedly coupled to a first one of the plurality of sidewalls, the cover including a plurality of partitions extending outwardly therefrom, a first one of the plurality of partitions having a depression formed on an inner surface thereof, a second one of the plurality of sidewalls having a retaining tab hingedly coupled thereto, the retaining tab cooperating with the depression to maintain the cover in a closed position;
at least one receptacle configured to contain at least one of a liquid and a semi-liquid food product and having a mouth defining an opening; and
at least one insulation layer configured to envelope the receptacle.
18. The kit of claim 17 , further comprising a utensil.
19. The kit of claim 17 , further comprising a handle.
20. The kit of claim 17 , wherein the sleeve includes a flap hingedly coupled to the second one of the plurality of sidewalls, the flap configured to converge towards the receptacle, the flap disposed beneath the cover in the closed position of the cover.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/988,799 US20170190501A1 (en) | 2016-01-06 | 2016-01-06 | Soup box container |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/988,799 US20170190501A1 (en) | 2016-01-06 | 2016-01-06 | Soup box container |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20170190501A1 true US20170190501A1 (en) | 2017-07-06 |
Family
ID=59226023
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/988,799 Abandoned US20170190501A1 (en) | 2016-01-06 | 2016-01-06 | Soup box container |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20170190501A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20230046700A1 (en) * | 2017-05-31 | 2023-02-16 | Westrock Mwv, Llc | Tamper evident tuck end containers |
-
2016
- 2016-01-06 US US14/988,799 patent/US20170190501A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20230046700A1 (en) * | 2017-05-31 | 2023-02-16 | Westrock Mwv, Llc | Tamper evident tuck end containers |
US11939119B2 (en) * | 2017-05-31 | 2024-03-26 | Westrock Mwv, Llc | Tamper evident tuck end containers |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: OTB PACKAGING, LLC, OHIO Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HILL, WEBB LERON;REEL/FRAME:037793/0147 Effective date: 20160222 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |