US20210039843A1 - Tamper-evident packaging structure incorporated into a container cover and an assembly - Google Patents
Tamper-evident packaging structure incorporated into a container cover and an assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20210039843A1 US20210039843A1 US16/988,297 US202016988297A US2021039843A1 US 20210039843 A1 US20210039843 A1 US 20210039843A1 US 202016988297 A US202016988297 A US 202016988297A US 2021039843 A1 US2021039843 A1 US 2021039843A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- lid
- container cover
- base
- protrusion
- cover
- 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
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- 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
- B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D43/02—Removable lids or covers
- B65D43/0235—Removable lids or covers with integral tamper element
-
- 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
- B65D17/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions
- B65D17/28—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions at lines or points of weakness
- B65D17/401—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions at lines or points of weakness characterised by having the line of weakness provided in an end wall
- B65D17/4011—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions at lines or points of weakness characterised by having the line of weakness provided in an end wall for opening completely by means of a tearing tab
-
- 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
- B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D43/14—Non-removable lids or covers
- B65D43/16—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement
- B65D43/163—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement the container and the lid being made separately
- B65D43/169—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement the container and the lid being made separately the lid, the hinge and the element connecting them to the container being made of one piece
-
- 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
- B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D43/14—Non-removable lids or covers
- B65D43/22—Devices for holding in closed position, e.g. clips
-
- 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
- B65D55/00—Accessories for container closures not otherwise provided for
- B65D55/02—Locking devices; Means for discouraging or indicating unauthorised opening or removal of closure
- B65D55/024—Closures in which a part has to be ruptured to gain access to the contents
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2251/00—Details relating to container closures
- B65D2251/0003—Two or more closures
- B65D2251/0006—Upper closure
- B65D2251/0018—Upper closure of the 43-type
- B65D2251/0021—Upper closure of the 43-type of the B65D43/16-type
-
- 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
- B65D2251/00—Details relating to container closures
- B65D2251/0003—Two or more closures
- B65D2251/0068—Lower closure
- B65D2251/0081—Lower closure of the 43-type
-
- 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
- B65D2251/00—Details relating to container closures
- B65D2251/10—Details of hinged closures
- B65D2251/1016—Means for locking the closure in closed position
-
- 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
- B65D2251/00—Details relating to container closures
- B65D2251/10—Details of hinged closures
- B65D2251/1016—Means for locking the closure in closed position
- B65D2251/105—The closure having a part fitting over the rim of the container or spout and retained by snapping over integral beads or projections
-
- 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
- B65D2251/00—Details relating to container closures
- B65D2251/10—Details of hinged closures
- B65D2251/1016—Means for locking the closure in closed position
- B65D2251/1058—Latching mechanisms
-
- 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
- B65D2401/00—Tamper-indicating means
- B65D2401/15—Tearable part of the 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
- B65D2401/00—Tamper-indicating means
- B65D2401/15—Tearable part of the closure
- B65D2401/25—Non-metallic tear-off strips
-
- 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
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00018—Overall construction of the lid
- B65D2543/00064—Shape of the outer periphery
- B65D2543/00074—Shape of the outer periphery curved
- B65D2543/00092—Shape of the outer periphery curved circular
-
- 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
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00018—Overall construction of the lid
- B65D2543/00259—Materials used
- B65D2543/00296—Plastic
-
- 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
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00435—Lids secured to an intermediate ring or like annular member fixed to the container mouth
-
- 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
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00444—Contact between the container and the lid
- B65D2543/00564—Contact between the container and the lid indirect by means of a gasket or similar intermediate ring
-
- 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
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00824—Means for facilitating removing of the closure
- B65D2543/00833—Integral tabs, tongues, handles or similar
- B65D2543/00842—Integral tabs, tongues, handles or similar outside of the lid
-
- 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
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00953—Sealing means
- B65D2543/0099—Integral supplemental sealing lips
-
- 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
- B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D43/14—Non-removable lids or covers
- B65D43/16—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to product packaging and to tamper-evident packaging. More specifically, the present invention relates to a container cover that incorporates a tamper-evident structure to provide a limited barrier to entry into the container and, most importantly, provide visible evidence to a consumer that the product container has or has not been tampered with. Further, the present invention relates to such a tamper-evident structure that can be formed into a container cover using one-shot plastic injection molding fabrication.
- Tamper-evident packaging is well known. Such packaging is intended to provide at least one barrier of entry to a container, which barrier also provides visible evidence to a consumer that the product within the container has been accessed and that the product has, perhaps, been tampered with.
- tamper-evident packaging There are many other types of tamper-evident packaging available and the goal of each is to make the product protected, but not impenetrable.
- plastic shrink bands can provide security for certain types of lids and caps.
- Shrink-wrap films provide tamper-evidence for almost any product—from foods to software, toys, board games, cosmetics and other consumer goods.
- Button-top security lids provide similar security by providing an audible signal to a consumer that the vacuum seal of a food jar is intact. Once open, the food product in the jar is readily accessed by the consumer, often repeatedly. That is, such easy-open packaging must provide security as well as consumer-friendliness.
- tamper-evident packaging is advantageous to the packager by knowing that its product and product container has not been tampered during shipment.
- using tamper-evident packaging demonstrates a clear concern for the well-being of the consumer, thereby building consumer loyalty and deterring someone with a plan to harm others. Tamper-evident packaging provides many benefits to product sellers in almost any industry.
- the invention provides an improved tamper-evident structure that provides visible evidence to a consumer that a product container has or has not been tampered with.
- the structure is also formed using a one-shot plastic injection molding process. This fabrication method is desirable because it simplifies and speeds up the production process for manufacturing the container cover.
- the container cover (the “cover”) of the present invention comprises two halves that are integrally-molded.
- the two halves are connected by a common pivot point or hinge that is disposed to one side of each half which allows the halves to be folded over and onto one another.
- One half is a solid cover or lid structure (the “lid”) and one half is a ring-like base structure (the “base”), both of which are intended to be disposed atop a container, with the base in direct contact with the container although the lid and base could be modified the include other engaging structure.
- the lid is configured to fit with and engage the base via the common hinge or pivot point. Opposite the hinge point of each structure is part of a lock structure that provides the tamper-evident functionality when the lid is folded over and onto the base.
- FIG. 1 is a top and side perspective view of the cover as described herein and showing the base and lid thereof in the “open” position.
- FIG. 2 is the same view as that shown in FIG. 1 but showing the base and lid thereof in the “closed” position.
- FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the cover as shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is a side elevation and cross-section view detailing the unengaged sealing point interfaces of the cover shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 is a greatly enlarged cross-section view detailing the sealing point interface in the base of the cover taken along line 5 of FIG. 4 .
- FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the cover as shown in FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of the cover shown in FIG. 6 and illustrating the tamper-evident packaging structure prior to the lid structure being opened.
- FIG. 8 is a side elevational and cross-sectioned view detailing the engaged sealing point interfaces of the cover shown in FIG. 1 and taken along line 8 - 8 of FIG. 6 and also illustrating the tamper-evident packaging structure prior to the lid structure being opened.
- FIG. 9 is a greatly enlarged cross-sectioned view detailing the sealing point interface in the base and lid of the cover taken along line 9 - 9 of FIG. 8 .
- FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate the structure of the unitary cover of the present invention, generally identified 10 .
- FIG. 1 shows the cover 10 in an “open” position and
- FIG. 2 shows the cover 10 in a “closed” position.
- the cover 10 is comprised of two major structural elements. One is the base, generally identified 20 , and the other is the lid, generally identified 40 . See FIG. 3 .
- the base 20 and the lid 40 are connected by a flexible hinge 60 that is integrally-formed with those structures.
- the cover 10 is preferably a piece of plastic formed by injection molding.
- the plastic type and durometer are not limited, but the plastic should be of a type that has some inherent “memory” to it, i.e. where the plastic members can be flexed but then return to an original position. Further, and although illustrated to be cylindrical in shape, the base 20 and the lid 40 could be alternatively configured.
- FIGS. 4 and 5 show a cross-sectioned view of the cover 10 in its “open” position. Disposed substantially 180° from the point at which the base 20 and the lid 40 are connected by the hinge 60 are complementary portions of the tamper-evident packaging structure that is formed in accordance with the present invention.
- the collective structure of the base 20 , lid 40 and hinge 60 that form the tamper-evident structure is generally identified 100 , this structure 100 being best illustrated in FIG. 9 and will be discussed further below.
- the lid 40 comprises a circumferential lip 41 that engages a complementary circumferential receiver 21 that is defined within the base 20 .
- the lid 40 further comprises a covering 43 that extends across and within the entire perimeter 47 of the lid 40 . Once closed, it is this covering 43 that keeps the contents of any container that the cover 10 is attached to safe and secure.
- Other lid-cover interfaces other than the tamper-evident packaging structure 100 discussed above, may be employed without deviating from the scope of the present invention.
- a lid lift tab 44 disposed approximately 180° from the hinge 60 and extending outwardly from the perimeter 47 of the lid 40 .
- the lid lift tab 44 is configured so as to allow a consumer to grasp the tab 44 and pull the lid 40 upwardly and away from the base 20 .
- That portion of the tamper-evident packaging structure 100 that is formed into the lid 40 comprises three primary elements, all of which are preferably contained within the lid tab 44 .
- the lid lift tab 44 comprises a slot-like lid opening 42 . See FIG. 4 .
- At the outermost portion of the slot-like lid opening 42 i.e., that portion extending at the outermost edge of the lid lift tab 44 ) is an inwardly-extending “catch” or lip 45 .
- To the opposite side of the opening 42 is a lid protrusion 46 , the lid protrusion 46 having an outwardly-extending lip 48 as well.
- all of the foregoing structure is integrally formed as part of the cover 10 during the single-shot plastic injection-molding process.
- That portion of the tamper-evident packaging structure 100 that is formed into the base 20 comprises four primary elements.
- the base 20 comprises a flat base protrusion 22 and a void 28 disposed behind the base protrusion 22 . See FIG. 5 .
- the base protrusion 22 extends upwardly from the base 20 and comprises a lip 24 .
- the base protrusion lip 24 extends outwardly from the uppermost portion 23 of the base protrusion 22 .
- the base protrusion 22 further comprises a rearward facing surface 25 .
- the base protrusion 22 is actually a frangible pull structure having pull tabs 23 disposed to either side of the base protrusion 22 .
- the base protrusion 22 is removably attached to the base 20 via a plurality of breakable fingers 26 .
- all of the foregoing structure is integrally formed as part of the cover 10 during the single-shot plastic injection-molding process.
- the cover 10 is secured to a container (not shown) by engagement of the circumferential lip 41 of the lid 40 with the complementary circumferential receiver 21 that is defined within the base 20 . See FIGS. 2 and 6-9 . This can be done prior to engagement of the tamper-evident structure 100 or after. In other words, the cover 10 can be secured to a container prior to filling the container with product (also not shown), or after. Either process, i.e. placing product in the container prior to securement of the cover 10 to the container or securing the cover 10 to the container and then introducing product to the container via the cover opening 12 (see FIGS. 1 and 3 ), requires that the lid 40 be rotated upwardly (in the orientation illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 4 ) using the hinge 60 .
- the lid 40 overlays the base 20
- the uppermost portion 23 of the base protrusion 22 will extend upwardly and into the slot-like lid opening 42 .
- the catch 45 of the lid opening 42 will engage the lip 24 of the base protrusion 22 .
- the lid protrusion 46 will enter the void 28 defined within the base 20 , with the lip 48 of the lid protrusion 46 engaging the rearward facing surface 25 of the base protrusion 22 .
- the base protrusion 22 will be unable to be flexed inwardly or rearwardly to the point that the catch 45 of the lid opening 42 disengages the lip 24 of the base protrusion 22 .
- the cover 10 shows that the cover 10 has not been tampered with. See FIG. 7 .
- one side tab 23 of the frangible base protrusion 22 must be grasped by the consumer and pulled away from the base 20 . As this is done, the fingers 26 of the assembly 100 will break away, allowing the base protrusion 22 to be removed. At this point, the assembly 100 is defeated and the consumer can lift the lid 40 as desired or required, using the remaining portion of the lid lift tab 44 as a way to exert upward pressure on the lid 40 sufficient to disengage the circumferential lip 41 of the lid 40 from the complementary circumferential receiver 21 that is defined within the base 20 .
- This cover 10 when combined with a container (not shown), provides a tamper-evident assembly in accordance with the present invention.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Closures For Containers (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This application claims the benefit and priority of United States Provisional Patent Application No. 62/884,255 filed Aug. 8, 2019.
- The present invention relates generally to product packaging and to tamper-evident packaging. More specifically, the present invention relates to a container cover that incorporates a tamper-evident structure to provide a limited barrier to entry into the container and, most importantly, provide visible evidence to a consumer that the product container has or has not been tampered with. Further, the present invention relates to such a tamper-evident structure that can be formed into a container cover using one-shot plastic injection molding fabrication.
- Tamper-evident packaging is well known. Such packaging is intended to provide at least one barrier of entry to a container, which barrier also provides visible evidence to a consumer that the product within the container has been accessed and that the product has, perhaps, been tampered with.
- Perhaps the most familiar type of tamper-evident packaging is in the area of pharmaceuticals where a foil-covered blister pack will show if a pill, capsule or other medication has been compromised where the foil has been pierced or otherwise disturbed. Such packaging often includes a warning statement to the consumer to look for this and to not use the product if the seal is broken.
- There are many other types of tamper-evident packaging available and the goal of each is to make the product protected, but not impenetrable. For example, tamper-evident plastic shrink bands can provide security for certain types of lids and caps. Shrink-wrap films provide tamper-evidence for almost any product—from foods to software, toys, board games, cosmetics and other consumer goods. Button-top security lids provide similar security by providing an audible signal to a consumer that the vacuum seal of a food jar is intact. Once open, the food product in the jar is readily accessed by the consumer, often repeatedly. That is, such easy-open packaging must provide security as well as consumer-friendliness.
- Significantly, it is desirable for food product packagers to provide a visual seal, a visible description of how it works or what to look for in the case tampering of the package has occurred. Between the packaging step and the consumer's purchase of a product, tamper-evident packaging is advantageous to the packager by knowing that its product and product container has not been tampered during shipment. On the consumer's end, using tamper-evident packaging demonstrates a clear concern for the well-being of the consumer, thereby building consumer loyalty and deterring someone with a plan to harm others. Tamper-evident packaging provides many benefits to product sellers in almost any industry.
- Therefore, in the experience of the inventor, there is need for an improved tamper-evident structure that provides visible evidence to a consumer that a product container has been or has not been tampered with. There is also a need to provide such a structure that can be conveniently formed using a one-shot plastic injection molding process.
- In accordance with the foregoing, the invention provides an improved tamper-evident structure that provides visible evidence to a consumer that a product container has or has not been tampered with. The structure is also formed using a one-shot plastic injection molding process. This fabrication method is desirable because it simplifies and speeds up the production process for manufacturing the container cover.
- Generally speaking, the container cover (the “cover”) of the present invention comprises two halves that are integrally-molded. The two halves are connected by a common pivot point or hinge that is disposed to one side of each half which allows the halves to be folded over and onto one another. One half is a solid cover or lid structure (the “lid”) and one half is a ring-like base structure (the “base”), both of which are intended to be disposed atop a container, with the base in direct contact with the container although the lid and base could be modified the include other engaging structure.
- The lid is configured to fit with and engage the base via the common hinge or pivot point. Opposite the hinge point of each structure is part of a lock structure that provides the tamper-evident functionality when the lid is folded over and onto the base. The foregoing and other features of the tamper-evident packaging structure of the present invention will be will be apparent from the detailed description that follows.
-
FIG. 1 is a top and side perspective view of the cover as described herein and showing the base and lid thereof in the “open” position. -
FIG. 2 is the same view as that shown inFIG. 1 but showing the base and lid thereof in the “closed” position. -
FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the cover as shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is a side elevation and cross-section view detailing the unengaged sealing point interfaces of the cover shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 5 is a greatly enlarged cross-section view detailing the sealing point interface in the base of the cover taken alongline 5 ofFIG. 4 . -
FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the cover as shown inFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of the cover shown inFIG. 6 and illustrating the tamper-evident packaging structure prior to the lid structure being opened. -
FIG. 8 is a side elevational and cross-sectioned view detailing the engaged sealing point interfaces of the cover shown inFIG. 1 and taken along line 8-8 ofFIG. 6 and also illustrating the tamper-evident packaging structure prior to the lid structure being opened. -
FIG. 9 is a greatly enlarged cross-sectioned view detailing the sealing point interface in the base and lid of the cover taken along line 9-9 ofFIG. 8 . - Referring now to the drawings in detail, wherein like-numbered elements refer to like elements throughout,
FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate the structure of the unitary cover of the present invention, generally identified 10.FIG. 1 shows thecover 10 in an “open” position andFIG. 2 shows thecover 10 in a “closed” position. Thecover 10 is comprised of two major structural elements. One is the base, generally identified 20, and the other is the lid, generally identified 40. SeeFIG. 3 . Thebase 20 and thelid 40 are connected by aflexible hinge 60 that is integrally-formed with those structures. In production, thecover 10 is preferably a piece of plastic formed by injection molding. The plastic type and durometer are not limited, but the plastic should be of a type that has some inherent “memory” to it, i.e. where the plastic members can be flexed but then return to an original position. Further, and although illustrated to be cylindrical in shape, thebase 20 and thelid 40 could be alternatively configured. - Referring now to
FIGS. 4 and 5 , they show a cross-sectioned view of thecover 10 in its “open” position. Disposed substantially 180° from the point at which thebase 20 and thelid 40 are connected by thehinge 60 are complementary portions of the tamper-evident packaging structure that is formed in accordance with the present invention. The collective structure of thebase 20,lid 40 andhinge 60 that form the tamper-evident structure is generally identified 100, thisstructure 100 being best illustrated inFIG. 9 and will be discussed further below. - Referring again to
FIG. 3 , and in accordance with the present invention, thelid 40 comprises acircumferential lip 41 that engages a complementarycircumferential receiver 21 that is defined within thebase 20. Thelid 40 further comprises acovering 43 that extends across and within theentire perimeter 47 of thelid 40. Once closed, it is this covering 43 that keeps the contents of any container that thecover 10 is attached to safe and secure. Other lid-cover interfaces, other than the tamper-evident packaging structure 100 discussed above, may be employed without deviating from the scope of the present invention. Lastly, disposed approximately 180° from thehinge 60 and extending outwardly from theperimeter 47 of thelid 40 is alid lift tab 44. Thelid lift tab 44 is configured so as to allow a consumer to grasp thetab 44 and pull thelid 40 upwardly and away from thebase 20. - That portion of the tamper-
evident packaging structure 100 that is formed into thelid 40 comprises three primary elements, all of which are preferably contained within thelid tab 44. Specifically, thelid lift tab 44 comprises a slot-like lid opening 42. SeeFIG. 4 . At the outermost portion of the slot-like lid opening 42 (i.e., that portion extending at the outermost edge of the lid lift tab 44) is an inwardly-extending “catch” orlip 45. SeeFIG. 9 . To the opposite side of theopening 42 is alid protrusion 46, thelid protrusion 46 having an outwardly-extendinglip 48 as well. Again, all of the foregoing structure is integrally formed as part of thecover 10 during the single-shot plastic injection-molding process. - That portion of the tamper-
evident packaging structure 100 that is formed into thebase 20 comprises four primary elements. Specifically, thebase 20 comprises aflat base protrusion 22 and a void 28 disposed behind thebase protrusion 22. SeeFIG. 5 . Thebase protrusion 22 extends upwardly from thebase 20 and comprises alip 24. Thebase protrusion lip 24 extends outwardly from theuppermost portion 23 of thebase protrusion 22. Thebase protrusion 22 further comprises a rearward facingsurface 25. Referring now toFIG. 7 , it will be seen that thebase protrusion 22 is actually a frangible pull structure havingpull tabs 23 disposed to either side of thebase protrusion 22. Thebase protrusion 22 is removably attached to thebase 20 via a plurality ofbreakable fingers 26. Here too, all of the foregoing structure is integrally formed as part of thecover 10 during the single-shot plastic injection-molding process. - Once formed, the
cover 10 is secured to a container (not shown) by engagement of thecircumferential lip 41 of thelid 40 with the complementarycircumferential receiver 21 that is defined within thebase 20. SeeFIGS. 2 and 6-9 . This can be done prior to engagement of the tamper-evident structure 100 or after. In other words, thecover 10 can be secured to a container prior to filling the container with product (also not shown), or after. Either process, i.e. placing product in the container prior to securement of thecover 10 to the container or securing thecover 10 to the container and then introducing product to the container via the cover opening 12 (seeFIGS. 1 and 3 ), requires that thelid 40 be rotated upwardly (in the orientation illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 4 ) using thehinge 60. - As the
lid 40 overlays thebase 20, theuppermost portion 23 of thebase protrusion 22 will extend upwardly and into the slot-like lid opening 42. Thecatch 45 of thelid opening 42 will engage thelip 24 of thebase protrusion 22. At the same time, thelid protrusion 46 will enter the void 28 defined within thebase 20, with thelip 48 of thelid protrusion 46 engaging the rearward facingsurface 25 of thebase protrusion 22. In these positions, thebase protrusion 22 will be unable to be flexed inwardly or rearwardly to the point that thecatch 45 of thelid opening 42 disengages thelip 24 of thebase protrusion 22. At this point, thecover 10 shows that thecover 10 has not been tampered with. SeeFIG. 7 . In order to disengage thelip 24 of thebase protrusion 22, oneside tab 23 of thefrangible base protrusion 22 must be grasped by the consumer and pulled away from thebase 20. As this is done, thefingers 26 of theassembly 100 will break away, allowing thebase protrusion 22 to be removed. At this point, theassembly 100 is defeated and the consumer can lift thelid 40 as desired or required, using the remaining portion of thelid lift tab 44 as a way to exert upward pressure on thelid 40 sufficient to disengage thecircumferential lip 41 of thelid 40 from the complementarycircumferential receiver 21 that is defined within thebase 20. - This
cover 10, when combined with a container (not shown), provides a tamper-evident assembly in accordance with the present invention.
Claims (16)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US16/988,297 US20210039843A1 (en) | 2019-08-08 | 2020-08-07 | Tamper-evident packaging structure incorporated into a container cover and an assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201962884255P | 2019-08-08 | 2019-08-08 | |
US16/988,297 US20210039843A1 (en) | 2019-08-08 | 2020-08-07 | Tamper-evident packaging structure incorporated into a container cover and an assembly |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20210039843A1 true US20210039843A1 (en) | 2021-02-11 |
Family
ID=74501857
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/988,297 Abandoned US20210039843A1 (en) | 2019-08-08 | 2020-08-07 | Tamper-evident packaging structure incorporated into a container cover and an assembly |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20210039843A1 (en) |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20200359614A1 (en) * | 2019-05-17 | 2020-11-19 | Gary MCNIEL | Lure Containers |
USD964167S1 (en) * | 2018-08-09 | 2022-09-20 | Henkel Ag & Co. Kgaa | Closure |
US20240124200A1 (en) * | 2022-10-12 | 2024-04-18 | Altria Client Services Llc | Child-resistant lid for a container |
WO2024092104A1 (en) * | 2022-10-27 | 2024-05-02 | Berry Global, Inc. | Tamper evident flip top closure |
USD1036991S1 (en) * | 2020-06-30 | 2024-07-30 | SimpliWipe, LLC | Disinfection wipe dispenser device |
-
2020
- 2020-08-07 US US16/988,297 patent/US20210039843A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD964167S1 (en) * | 2018-08-09 | 2022-09-20 | Henkel Ag & Co. Kgaa | Closure |
US20200359614A1 (en) * | 2019-05-17 | 2020-11-19 | Gary MCNIEL | Lure Containers |
US12058991B2 (en) * | 2019-05-17 | 2024-08-13 | Solution Products, LLC. | Lure containers |
USD1036991S1 (en) * | 2020-06-30 | 2024-07-30 | SimpliWipe, LLC | Disinfection wipe dispenser device |
US20240124200A1 (en) * | 2022-10-12 | 2024-04-18 | Altria Client Services Llc | Child-resistant lid for a container |
US11975898B1 (en) * | 2022-10-12 | 2024-05-07 | Altria Client Services Llc | Child-resistant lid for a container |
WO2024092104A1 (en) * | 2022-10-27 | 2024-05-02 | Berry Global, Inc. | Tamper evident flip top closure |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20210039843A1 (en) | Tamper-evident packaging structure incorporated into a container cover and an assembly | |
US9676527B2 (en) | Tamper resistant container | |
EP1401719B1 (en) | Tamper resistant composite lids for food containers | |
US5249694A (en) | Tear strip container | |
US4487324A (en) | Tamper-evident dispensing closure | |
US4747500A (en) | Tamper indicating transparent closure | |
US9592937B1 (en) | Tamper-evident container structure | |
US4479585A (en) | Tamper resistant safety closure and closure-container combination | |
US5094357A (en) | Tamper evident seal | |
EP1966057B1 (en) | A packaging with lid sealable to container and a method of sealing the packaging | |
CA2931803C (en) | Tamper-evident container and method | |
US8276777B2 (en) | Closure with tamper evident strip for container | |
US20110108509A1 (en) | Container closure | |
CN101445175A (en) | Closure assembly | |
US20110174819A1 (en) | Tamper evident container | |
US20150344196A1 (en) | Closure with tamper evident secondary piece | |
US20180079568A1 (en) | Plastic packaging with tamper evidence | |
CA3020212A1 (en) | Containers | |
AU2015101728A4 (en) | Tamper-evident container structure | |
US4694971A (en) | Tamperproof package | |
JP6682140B2 (en) | Hinge cap with tamper-proof mechanism | |
US20060090671A1 (en) | Tamper-evident lid for container | |
US20230356897A1 (en) | Mold-material flip-top tamper evident closure | |
EP3507198A1 (en) | Plastic packaging with tamper evidence | |
EP0618146A2 (en) | Tamper-evident closure |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: DOCKETED NEW CASE - READY FOR EXAMINATION |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: RESPONSE TO NON-FINAL OFFICE ACTION ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NOTICE OF ALLOWANCE MAILED -- APPLICATION RECEIVED IN OFFICE OF PUBLICATIONS |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: BMO HARRIS BANK N.A., ILLINOIS Free format text: CONFIRMATORY PATENT SECURITY AGREEMENT IN U.S. PATENTS;ASSIGNOR:SCHOENECK CONTAINERS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:059265/0875 Effective date: 20220228 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SCHOENECK CONTAINERS, INC., WISCONSIN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:KOUBA, JOSHUA R.;DERN, LAUREN C.;REEL/FRAME:059170/0886 Effective date: 20220302 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONMENT FOR FAILURE TO CORRECT DRAWINGS/OATH/NONPUB REQUEST |