US20230234761A1 - Locking packaging container - Google Patents
Locking packaging container Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20230234761A1 US20230234761A1 US18/192,117 US202318192117A US2023234761A1 US 20230234761 A1 US20230234761 A1 US 20230234761A1 US 202318192117 A US202318192117 A US 202318192117A US 2023234761 A1 US2023234761 A1 US 2023234761A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- outer sleeve
- panel
- sleeve
- inner sleeve
- locking 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.)
- Pending
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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
- B65D50/00—Closures with means for discouraging unauthorised opening or removal thereof, with or without indicating means, e.g. child-proof closures
- B65D50/02—Closures with means for discouraging unauthorised opening or removal thereof, with or without indicating means, e.g. child-proof closures openable or removable by the combination of plural actions
- B65D50/06—Closures with means for discouraging unauthorised opening or removal thereof, with or without indicating means, e.g. child-proof closures openable or removable by the combination of plural actions requiring the combination of different actions in succession
- B65D50/066—Closures with means for discouraging unauthorised opening or removal thereof, with or without indicating means, e.g. child-proof closures openable or removable by the combination of plural actions requiring the combination of different actions in succession whereby parts of the container or closure having to be deformed, i.e. bi-stable movement
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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
- 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
- B65D5/38—Drawer-and-shell type 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
- 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
- B65D5/5007—Integral elements for containers having tubular body walls formed by inwardly protruding of folded parts of the 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
- B65D2215/00—Child-proof means
- B65D2215/02—Child-proof means requiring the combination of simultaneous actions
-
- 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
- B65D2215/00—Child-proof means
- B65D2215/04—Child-proof means requiring the combination of different actions in succession
-
- 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
- B65D2255/00—Locking devices
- B65D2255/20—Locking devices with coacting elements, e.g. ratchet and pawl, formed integrally in the container and closure or dispensing device, e.g. spout, for permanently preventing removal of the latter
Definitions
- Cartons or other paperboard containers may be used for holding and storing items.
- the items held or stored in the containers may be harmful to certain users, such as children (e.g., a pharmaceutical drug, tobacco, etc.).
- a user may desire to hold or store items in a lockable, child-resistant container.
- the technology disclosed herein includes an environmentally friendly, re-lockable packaging apparatus comprising an outer sleeve, an inner sleeve, and at least one locking mechanism configured to lock the inner sleeve inside the outer sleeve, wherein a locking tab of the inner sleeve connected to a bottom panel of the inner sleeve is configured to move from a position in between and substantially parallel to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve and a middle panel of the outer sleeve to an angled position protruding into a first area of the outer sleeve proximate to a bottom panel of the outer sleeve and adjacent to the middle panel of the outer sleeve, and engage a locking ridge located on an end of the middle panel of the outer sleeve.
- the edge of the locking ridge and edge of the locking tab of the inner sleeve may be arc-shaped and the edge of the locking ridge and edge of the locking tab of the inner sleeve may be configured to oppose one another to form the first locking mechanism.
- the packaging apparatus includes an aperture located on the bottom panel of the outer sleeve wherein a user can access the locking tab of the inner sleeve when the inner sleeve is positioned inside the outer sleeve in a closed configuration.
- the user can press the locking tab of the inner sleeve into the outer sleeve via the aperture and disengage the locking tab of the inner sleeve from the locking ridge to unlock the packaging apparatus.
- the first locking mechanism locks the inner sleeve in its entirety inside the outer sleeve.
- the packaging apparatus includes a second locking mechanism of the packaging apparatus configured to lock the inner sleeve to the outer sleeve responsive to sliding the inner sleeve from the outer sleeve until the locking tab of the inner sleeve latches onto the locking tab of the outer sleeve.
- the locking tab of the inner sleeve and the locking tab of the outer sleeve may be angled in opposing directions.
- the second locking mechanism prevents the inner sleeve from sliding entirely out of the outer sleeve and/or locks the inner sleeve partially inside the outer sleeve.
- the packaging apparatus includes a storage compartment located in the inner sleeve.
- the packaging apparatus includes at least one perforated top panel in the storage compartment, which may be pressed into the storage compartment to serve as a cradle or holder to receive and hold a storage item in place.
- the packaging apparatus may include a pull tab for removal of the inner sleeve from inside the outer sleeve.
- the packaging apparatus may include a permanently fixed dog-eared tuck located on an end of the outer sleeve.
- the disclosed technology includes a packaging apparatus, which includes a method of sliding an inner sleeve into an outer sleeve of a packaging apparatus, moving a locking tab of the inner sleeve connected to a bottom panel of the inner sleeve from a position in between and substantially parallel to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve and a middle panel of the outer sleeve to an angled position protruding into a first area of the outer sleeve proximate to a bottom panel of the outer sleeve and adjacent to the middle panel of the outer sleeve, engaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve with a locking ridge located on an end of the middle panel of the outer sleeve, and locking the packaging apparatus responsive to engaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve with the locking ridge.
- the method may further include pressing the locking tab of the inner sleeve into the outer sleeve via an aperture located in a bottom panel of the outer sleeve and disengaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve from the locking ridge to unlock the packaging apparatus.
- the method may further include sliding the inner sleeve from the outer sleeve, latching the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve, and locking the inner sleeve to the outer sleeve responsive to latching the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve.
- latching the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve is responsive to the locking tab of the inner sleeve and the locking tab of the outer sleeve being angled in opposing directions.
- FIG. 1 A illustrates a perspective top view of an example packaging apparatus in a closed position.
- FIG. 1 B illustrates a perspective bottom view of an example packaging apparatus in a closed position.
- FIG. 1 C illustrates a perspective top view of an example packaging apparatus in an open position.
- FIGS. 2 A-D illustrates perspective views of an example packaging apparatus during assembly.
- FIG. 3 A illustrates a plan view of an unassembled example outer sleeve of a packaging apparatus.
- FIG. 3 B illustrates a plan view of an unassembled example inner sleeve of a packaging apparatus.
- FIGS. 4 A and 4 B illustrates side cross-sectional views of an example packaging apparatus during assembly and use.
- FIGS. 5 A and B illustrate two enlarged side cross-sectional view of an example packaging apparatus during use.
- FIG. 6 is a flowchart of example operations of using a packaging apparatus.
- substantially parallel refers to a position wherein a tab lies sufficiently flat in relation to a first surface in an effort to slide between the first surface and a second surface opposing the first surface.
- substantially parallel may be 0°-5° from the first surface.
- locking refers to a position wherein a tab is caught or latched onto another surface in an effort to prevent movement and create a locking mechanism as the tab is trapped in the latched position.
- “locking” may mean a tab, for example, is prevented from movement because the tab is fighting against another surface when it is being pulled against the surface.
- the disclosed technology includes packaging apparatuses configured to lock internally.
- the packaging apparatus may have a storage compartment, or an insert containing a compartment to hold, store, and secure an item.
- the packaging apparatus are child-resistant, easy to manufacture, and easy to use.
- the packaging apparatus are environmentally friendly and made of paperboard and have folding capabilities to reduce packaging.
- the packaging apparatus may be tamper-evident and/or senior-friendly.
- the packaging apparatus include panels, tabs, flaps, and apertures that may have various shapes (e.g., oval, rectangular, circular, etc.) depending on the intended use and manufacturing requirements (e.g., auto-erecting walls requirements).
- the panels, tabs, flaps, apertures, and other components of the packaging apparatus may have different locations in the packaging apparatus than what is shown in the figures. For example, a panel or tab may be moved in a packaging apparatus to accommodate better functioning of one of the disclosed locking mechanisms.
- the panels, tabs, flaps, apertures, and other components of the packaging apparatus may have memory properties.
- a locking tab may be able return to an original pre-bended shape or position after the locking tab is pressed in a certain direction. For example, if a paperboard locking tab has memory properties and is attached and extending from an end of a panel, and the paperboard locking tab is moved (or bended) around the end of the panel to be positioned substantially parallel on the panel and released, the locking tab will attempt to return or return to its original pre-bent shape or position.
- FIG. 1 A illustrates a perspective top view of an example packaging apparatus 100 .
- the packaging apparatus 100 has an outer sleeve 102 , an inner sleeve 104 , and a pull tab 106 .
- the pull tab 106 may be pulled by a user to pull the inner sleeve 104 from the outer sleeve 102 when the packaging apparatus 100 is in a closed position to open the packaging apparatus 100 .
- the pull tab 106 may be configured to have a ‘tear away’ function. Specifically, there may be a cut located on both sides of the pull tab 106 .
- the tab 106 is configured to rip off or tear away. As a result, the packaging apparatus 100 is then tamper-evident, and the child will not be able to pull the inner sleeve 104 from the outer sleeve 102 via the pull tab 106 .
- FIG. 1 B illustrates a perspective bottom view of the example packaging apparatus 100 .
- the outer sleeve 102 , the inner sleeve 104 , and the pull tab 106 are shown.
- An aperture 108 is located in a bottom panel 112 in the outer sleeve.
- the aperture is oval-shaped.
- the oval shape is intended to accommodate for a user's finger to access inside the outer sleeve and to prevent tampering, which may occur with a square shape, for example.
- the aperture 108 may be other shapes.
- the size of the aperture is configured to be small enough to prevent a user's finger or fingernails from tearing the packaging apparatus.
- the aperture 108 may be approximately 1 ⁇ 2-inch wide and approximately 1 ⁇ 4-inch tall, by way of example, but the sizes may vary.
- the packaging apparatus 100 When in the packaging apparatus 100 is in a closed position, the packaging apparatus 100 is locked, where the inner sleeve 104 is locked inside the outer sleeve 102 .
- a user can press downward on a locking tab on the inner sleeve 116 that is accessible via the aperture 108 .
- the locking tab 116 on the inner sleeve When the locking tab 116 on the inner sleeve is pressed downward, the locking tab 116 on the inner sleeve moves and disengages from a locking ridge located on an interior middle panel (or glue lap) of the outer sleeve (shown and described in detail in FIGS. 4 and 5 below), and unlocks the inner sleeve 104 from the outer sleeve 102 .
- the inner sleeve 104 can then be pulled from the outer sleeve 102 .
- the aperture 108 is located approximately 1 ⁇ 8 inch from an end of the outer sleeve 102 . While the exact location and measurement of the aperture may vary, the location of the aperture in the bottom panel 112 is far enough from the end of the outer sleeve 102 that the locking tab of the inner sleeve 116 can be accessed and disengaged from a locking ridge, and close enough to the end of the outer sleeve 102 that a user (e.g., a child) cannot see the locking mechanism (the end of the locking tab of the inner sleeve interfacing the locking ridge).
- the packaging apparatus 100 may have a second locking mechanism (described in detail in FIG. 4 B below) that prevents the inner sleeve 104 from being pulled out its entirety out of the outer sleeve 102 , and keeps the inner sleeve 104 connected to the outer sleeve 102 .
- a second locking mechanism described in detail in FIG. 4 B below
- the packaging apparatus 100 is shown in an open position where the inner sleeve 104 is connected to the outer sleeve 102 .
- the arrow shows the direction that the inner sleeve 104 may be moved in and out of the outer sleeve 102 .
- the inner sleeve 104 may be connected to the outer sleeve 102 via a second locking mechanism.
- the pull tab 106 connected to the inner sleeve 104 is shown.
- the inner sleeve 104 has an inner sleeve compartment 114 located in a top panel 130 which acts as a storage compartment for holding items in place and for storing items in the outer sleeve 102 .
- the inner sleeve compartment 114 can vary in design, size, and shape depending on the design and use of the packaging apparatus 100 , as well as the required design for desired items to be stored in the outer sleeve 102 .
- the inner sleeve compartment 114 may be designed to securely hold vials, bottles, a vape cartridge, electronic cigarettes, food products, other objects, etc. in place. In some implementations, there may be multiple compartments.
- the inner sleeve compartment 114 may be defined by a number of panels configured in a single sheet of stock or packaging that makes up the inner sleeve 104 (shown and described in FIG. 3 B ).
- the compartment panels are located adjacent to exterior inner sleeve panels in a sheet of stock and configure to make the inner sleeve compartment 114 .
- the compartment panels can form side walls, a top panel of the inner sleeve compartment 114 , and a bottom panel of the inner sleeve compartment 114 that are positioned over the middle panel of the inner sleeve.
- the two compartment side panels form partitions in the inner sleeve 104 that form three tube-like compartments that run the length of the inner sleeve as well as add two additional walls in the inner sleeve 104 for added structural integrity.
- One of the tube-like compartments becomes the inner sleeve compartment and the other two tube-like compartments are not accessible from the outside of the packaging apparatus.
- the inner sleeve does not have an end panel and the three compartments are open, to conserve on packaging material. This open end of the inner sleeve faces inside the outer sleeve when the inner sleeve is inserted into the outer sleeve.
- Contents or storage items are stored in the inner sleeve compartment 114 .
- contents may be kept in place by a perforated top panel (e.g., see perforated top panel 368 in FIG. 3 B ).
- the perforated top panel may be configured to separate in the middle (e.g., the line in the middle of the panel) into two separate pieces or panels and bend at various desired perforations (e.g., at one or more of the other six perforation lines shown) into the inner compartment 114 to create an automatic cradle and secure fitting for a content to be stored.
- top panel(s) 368 there may be one or more aperture located in the top panel(s) 368 to receive a storage item to further secure it in place in the inner sleeve compartment 114 .
- the top panel(s) 368 may be configured to move down into the inner sleeve compartment adjacent to the inner compartment sidewalls 376 a and 376 b, and in some implementations, contacting a bottom panel of the compartment 384 .
- the components of the packaging apparatus 100 can comprise of one or more materials (i.e., paperboard, wax paper, aluminum foil, cellophane, plastic, thermoformed plastic material such as polystyrenes, polypropylenes, polyethylenes, polyethylene terephthalates, polyvinyl chloride polystyrenes, polyvinylydene chlorides, fluoride resins, polycarbonates, polyamides, polyphenylene oxides, and combinations thereof, etc.), and of varying measurements, depending on the storage requirements for the storage items.
- all of the packaging apparatus 100 may be paperboard of varying thickness.
- the interior walls of the outer sleeve 102 may have a lining or tray made of a material different than the outer sleeve 102 .
- the outer sleeve 102 may be made of paperboard, and a lining on the interior walls of the outer sleeve 102 may be plastic or another material that cannot be ripped or torn, reinforcing the child-resistant nature of the packaging apparatus 100 .
- the inner sleeve 104 may be made of both a plastic material and a paperboard material to provide additional durability.
- the packaging apparatus may include silicone to minimize the risk of moisture build-up, or parchment paper if storage items are sticky, or other materials which may provide an airtight or moisture-free environment or prevent freezing or other temperature change. Other materials are contemplated that prevent against moisture and humidity, direct light, sources of heat, contamination, mildew or mold, and bugs.
- scoring of the components may allow for memory, and different thicknesses of material may be used for rigidity.
- plastic laminate may be included in the packaging apparatus so that the packaging is tear-proof.
- the packaging apparatus includes at least one additional interior locking mechanism (described in detail in FIG. 4 ) configured to lock the inner sleeve 104 to the outer sleeve 102 in both open and closed configurations.
- FIGS. 2 A-D illustrate perspective views of example packaging apparatus 200 during assembly.
- FIG. 2 A illustrates the outer sleeve 202 separated from the inner sleeve 204 before assembly.
- a locking tab 218 on the outer sleeve 202 is connected to an end of the bottom panel of the outer sleeve 212 .
- the inner sleeve 204 has an inner sleeve compartment 214 shown in the top panel of the inner sleeve 230 .
- a locking tab on the inner sleeve 216 is connected to an end of the inner sleeve 204 .
- a pull tab 206 is also shown on the inner sleeve 204 .
- FIG. 2 B illustrates that the locking tab of the inner sleeve 216 connected to the inner sleeve 204 may be pressed down and rotated around, or backward, in a direction to lay approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to an exterior surface of a bottom panel of the inner sleeve 204 .
- the locking tab of the outer sleeve 218 located on the end of the outer sleeve 202 may be moved upward and pressed into the inside of the outer sleeve 208 to lay approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to the interior surface of a panel (e.g., see a glue lap or middle panel 392 located on the bottom panel, shown in FIG. 2 A ) of the outer sleeve 202 .
- a first locking mechanism locks the inner sleeve 204 inside the outer sleeve 202 .
- FIG. 2 C illustrates the inner sleeve 204 being inserted into the outer sleeve 202 , as the locking tab of the inner sleeve 216 connected to the inner sleeve 204 is positioned approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to a bottom panel 232 of the inner sleeve 204 , and the locking tab of the outer sleeve 218 on the outer sleeve 202 is positioned inside the outer sleeve 202 approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to a glue lap or middle panel of the outer sleeve (not shown) located on the interior surface of a bottom panel of the outer sleeve 202 .
- FIG. 2 D illustrates the inner sleeve 204 inserted in the outer sleeve 202 .
- the locking tab of the inner sleeve 216 connected to the inner sleeve 204 is shown accessible through the aperture 208 located in the bottom panel of the outer sleeve 212 .
- a user can unlock the locking tab of the inner sleeve and pull the pull tab 206 of the inner sleeve 204 to slide the inner sleeve 204 from the outer sleeve 206 .
- FIG. 3 A illustrates a plan view of an unassembled example outer sleeve 302 of a packaging apparatus 300 .
- the plan view of the outer sleeve 302 is an example, and there may be variations on how the outer sleeve 302 is assembled.
- the outer sleeve 302 includes several panels that can be folded onto each other to create rectangular packaging with one open end.
- the unassembled example outer sleeve 302 is a single sheet of packaging material that includes panels, tabs and dust flaps.
- a first layer of adhesive of the outer sleeve 336 is shown as applied to a first glue lap 392 , an interior panel of the outer sleeve 302 .
- a “glue lap” may be referred to as a packaging panel or extra stock in which glue or other adhesive is applied in order to attach the glue lap to another panel or surface in the packaging apparatus 300 .
- Glue laps may be added to packaging for various reasons, including for extra reinforcement to packaging, to create compartments, and to act as locking mechanisms.
- a glue lap may also be defined as a particular panel.
- the first glue lap 392 is also the middle panel in the outer sleeve 302 .
- the first glue lap 392 folds onto the bottom panel 312 of the outer sleeve 302 and the first layer of adhesive of the outer sleeve 336 seals the first glue lap 392 onto the interior surface of the bottom panel of the outer sleeve 312 .
- a “layer of adhesive” is depicted as where the layer of adhesive is applied on a given panel of the single sheet of packaging material, and the area upon which the panel will seal to another panel or packaging surface.
- the locking tab of the outer sleeve 318 is connected to an end of the bottom panel of the outer sleeve 312 .
- the locking tab of the outer sleeve 318 has memory properties.
- the locking tab of the outer sleeve 318 may be moved inside the outer sleeve 302 to form part of a second locking mechanism when the inner sleeve 304 is moved from the outer sleeve 302 (described in detail in FIG. 4 B ).
- a reinforcement panel of the outer sleeve 338 may also be folded into the interior of the outer sleeve 302 .
- the reinforcement panel of the outer sleeve 338 is glued against the top panel outer sleeve 348 .
- the reinforcement panel of the outer sleeve 338 wraps around the end of the outer sleeve so that the edges of the outer sleeve 302 are rounded (rather than square), which prevents tampering of the packaging apparatus.
- Dust flaps 346 a and 346 b are located adjacent to the side panels 320 a and 320 b. As shown, the dust flaps 346 a and 346 b have cut-outs for die-cutting to provide for clearance with adjacent panels and to decrease any gap size between panels once the end panels are folded during assembly.
- the first glue lap of the outer sleeve 392 is folded into the outer sleeve 302 , where the first glue lap of the outer sleeve 392 is located opposite the top panel of the outer sleeve 348 and the side panel 120 b forms one side to the outer sleeve 302 .
- the bottom panel of the outer sleeve 312 is folded on top of the first glue lap of the outer sleeve 392 attaching via the first adhesive of the outer sleeve 336 .
- the side panel 120 a forms a second side to the outer sleeve 302 .
- the side panels 320 a and 320 b are perpendicular to the first glue lap of the outer sleeve 392 , the bottom panel of the outer sleeve 312 , and the top panel of the outer sleeve 348 .
- the dust flaps 346 a and 346 b are folded inside the outer sleeve 302 , and a first end flap 340 is folded to close an end of the outer sleeve 302 .
- a second glue lap 342 may be folded onto the first end flap 340 and secured to the first end flap 340 with a second layer of adhesive of the outer sleeve 344 .
- the dust flap 346 a and 346 b, fourth flap 340 , and second glue lap 342 in combination together, create a “dog-eared tuck” located on the end of the outer sleeve 302 , which is a permanently fixed and child-resistant end of the packaging, which requires tearing to open the packaging apparatus 300 once it is closed and locked.
- a locking ridge or edge 322 is configured on the first glue lap 392 .
- a locking ridge or edge 322 is an edge located on the end of the first glue lap 392 proximate to the bottom panel of the outer sleeve 312 .
- FIG. 3 B illustrates a plan view of an unassembled example inner sleeve of a packaging apparatus 300 .
- the plan view of the inner sleeve 304 is an example, and there may be variations on how the inner sleeve 304 is assembled.
- the inner sleeve 304 includes several panels that can be folded onto each other to create rectangular packaging. In some implementations, the inner sleeve has one open end.
- the unassembled example inner sleeve 304 is a single sheet of packaging material that includes panels, tabs, and dust flaps.
- a top panel of the inner sleeve 330 is shown with the bottom panel of the inner sleeve 332 with two side panels 372 a and 372 b.
- the bottom panel of the inner sleeve 332 is shown with a first adhesive of the inner sleeve 370 located on an end.
- the inner sleeve 304 has a pull tab 306 , and an end panel of the inner sleeve 386 .
- a locking tab of the inner sleeve 316 is shown attached to the end of the bottom panel of the inner sleeve 332 .
- the reinforcement panel of the inner sleeve 328 is shown attached to an end panel of the inner sleeve 386 , which is attached to the top panel of the inner sleeve 330 .
- a compartment panel 368 is located in the top panel of the inner sleeve 330 .
- the side panel of the inner sleeve 372 b is connected to components that make up the inner compartment 114 , shown in FIG. 1 C . Specifically, the side panel of the inner sleeve 372 b is connected to a middle panel of the inner sleeve 388 , which is shown with a second layer of adhesive of the inner sleeve 374 . The middle panel of the inner sleeve 388 is connected to a compartment side wall 376 a.
- the compartment side panel 376 a is connected to components compartment top panels 380 a and 380 b, which are separated from each other by a compartment aperture 390 .
- Third layers of adhesive of the inner sleeve 378 a and 378 b are located on top of the two compartment top panels 380 a and 380 b, respectively.
- the two compartment top panels 380 a and 380 b are attached to a compartment side panel 376 b, which is attached to a bottom panel of the compartment 384 .
- a fourth layer of adhesive of the inner sleeve 382 is located on the bottom panel of the compartment 384 .
- an inner sleeve compartment (e.g., inner sleeve compartment 114 shown in FIG. 1 C ) is created by the bottom panel of the compartment 384 folding or rolling into the inner sleeve 304 where the bottom panel of the compartment 384 attaches and seals via the fourth layer of adhesive of the inner sleeve 304 onto the middle panel of the inner sleeve 388 .
- the middle panel of the inner sleeve 388 is folded and sealed onto the interior surface of the bottom panel of the inner sleeve 332 via the second layer of adhesive of the inner sleeve 374 .
- the top panel of the inner sleeve 330 may be folded onto the top of the third layers of adhesive of the inner sleeve 378 a and 378 b securing the top panel of the inner sleeve 330 to the top panels of the compartment 380 a and 380 b.
- the bottom panel of the inner sleeve 332 folds and seals onto middle panel of the inner sleeve 388 via a second adhesive of the inner sleeve 374 .
- the tab or dust flap 346 is then folded in toward the inside of the inner sleeve 304 and the end panel 386 of the inner sleeve 332 wraps around the tab 346 .
- the reinforcement panel of the inner sleeve 328 wraps around to the exterior surface of the bottom panel of the inner sleeve attaching and sealing to the first layer of adhesive of the inner sleeve 370 , sealing the end of the inner sleeve 304 .
- the reinforcement panel of the inner sleeve 328 wraps around the end of the inner sleeve 304 so that the edges of the closed end of the outer sleeve 302 are rounded (rather than square), which prevents tampering of the packaging apparatus.
- the locking tab of the inner sleeve 316 and the locking ridge 322 are both arc-shaped.
- the arc-shaped end of the locking tab of the inner sleeve 316 and the arc-shaped end of the locking ridge 322 which are inverse cut-outs of each other, nest opposite one another and together are fighting edges that lock the packaging apparatus 300 .
- FIGS. 4 A and 4 B illustrate side cross-sectional views of an example packaging apparatus during various steps 452 - 462 of assembly and use.
- a step 452 the inner sleeve 404 is shown detached from the outer sleeve 402 prior to assembly of the packaging apparatus 400 .
- the locking tab on the inner sleeve 416 may be positioned approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to the exterior surface of the bottom panel 432 of the inner sleeve 404 .
- the locking tab of the outer sleeve 418 may be pushed inside the outer sleeve 402 and positioned approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to the first glue lap 492 located on the interior surface of a bottom panel 412 of the outer sleeve 402 .
- a step 454 the inner sleeve 404 is shown partially inserted into the outer sleeve 402 , where when the inner sleeve 404 enters the outer sleeve 402 , the locking tab on the inner sleeve 416 stays positioned approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to the exterior surface of the bottom panel 432 of the inner sleeve 404 and the locking tab of the outer sleeve 418 stays positioned approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to the first glue lap 436 located on the interior surface of a bottom panel 412 of the outer sleeve 402 .
- a step 456 the inner sleeve 404 is shown entirely inserted into the outer sleeve 402 in a locked position.
- the locking tab on the inner sleeve 416 which has moved past the first glue lap 436 of the outer sleeve 404 , springs into an area (shown in greater detail in FIG. 5 ) in the outer sleeve 402 adjacent the interior surface of a bottom panel 412 of the outer sleeve 402 due to its memory properties.
- the locking tab on the inner sleeve 416 moves past the first glue lap 436 , the locking tab on the inner sleeve 416 locks onto a locking edge 422 on the glue lap 436 .
- the inner sleeve 404 is locked inside the outer sleeve 402 .
- a step 458 the inner sleeve 404 is shown entirely inserted into the outer sleeve 402 in an unlocked position.
- a user can apply pressure to the locking tab on the inner sleeve 416 by inserting either a thumb, finger, key, or other instrument through the aperture 408 located in the bottom panel 412 of the outer sleeve 402 and push the locking tab on the inner sleeve 416 upward into the interior of outer sleeve 402 past the locking edge 422 .
- the inner sleeve 402 can be pulled by the pull tab 406 from the outer sleeve 402 , opening the packaging apparatus 400 .
- the inner sleeve 404 is shown partially pulled out of the outer sleeve 402 in an unlocked position. A user can access contents inside the inner sleeve 404 when the inner sleeve is partially pulled out of the outer sleeve 402 .
- the locking tab on the inner sleeve 416 which is facing in a direction opposite the direction that the locking tab of the outer sleeve 418 is facing, catches on the locking tab of the outer sleeve 418 .
- the end of the locking tab 416 slides in between the locking tab of the outer sleeve 418 and the middle panel of the outer sleeve 492 and hooks proximate to the interface where the end of the locking tab of the outer sleeve 418 is connected to the bottom panel of the outer sleeve 412 and adjacent to the middle panel of the outer sleeve 492 .
- the opposing locking tabs lock against each other, and the inner sleeve 404 is prevented from being entirely pulled out of the outer sleeve 402 .
- the inner sleeve 404 is shown partially pulled out of the outer sleeve 402 in a locked position in a step 462 .
- FIGS. 5 A and 5 B illustrate enlarged, side cross-sectional views of an example packaging apparatus during use in step 456 of FIG. 4 , where the packaging apparatus is in a closed configuration by the first locking mechanism.
- the inner sleeve 504 is shown entirely inserted into the outer sleeve 502 in a locked position.
- the locking tab on the inner sleeve 516 has moved past the first glue lap 592 of the outer sleeve 504 , into an area in the outer sleeve 502 adjacent the interior surface of a bottom panel 512 of the outer sleeve 502 because of its memory properties.
- the locking tab on the inner sleeve 516 has moved past the first glue lap 536 and locked onto a locking edge 522 on the glue lap 592 .
- the inner sleeve 504 is locked inside the outer sleeve 502 .
- a user presses down on the locking tab of the inner sleeve 516 via the aperture 508 and pushes the locking tab 516 into the outer sleeve, disengaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve 516 from the locking edge 522 .
- the inner sleeve can then be pulled from the outer sleeve by the pull tab 506 .
- FIG. 6 is a flowchart of example operations 600 during use of the packaging apparatus.
- An operation 602 slides an inner sleeve into an outer sleeve of a packaging apparatus.
- the inner sleeve may be partially inside the outer sleeve during operation 602 .
- a user can fold a locking tab of the outer sleeve located on an end of the bottom panel of the outer sleeve into the outer sleeve and to a position substantially parallel to a surface of a middle panel (or glue lap) of the outer sleeve attached the interior surface of the bottom panel of the outer sleeve, and fold a locking tab of the inner sleeve located on an end of the bottom panel of the inner sleeve around to a position substantially parallel to an exterior surface of the bottom panel of the inner sleeve before sliding the inner sleeve into the outer sleeve.
- the locking tab of the inner sleeve remains substantially parallel to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve
- An operation 604 moves a locking tab of the inner sleeve connected to an end of a bottom panel of the inner sleeve from a position in between and substantially parallel to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve and a middle panel of the outer sleeve to an angled position protruding into a first area of the outer sleeve proximate to a bottom panel of the outer sleeve and adjacent to the middle panel of the outer sleeve.
- An operation 606 engages the locking tab of the inner sleeve with a locking ridge located on an end of the middle panel of the outer sleeve.
- An operation 608 locks the packaging apparatus responsive to engaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve with the locking ridge.
- An operation 610 presses the locking tab of the inner sleeve into the outer sleeve via an aperture located in a bottom panel of the outer sleeve.
- An operation 612 disengages the locking tab of the inner sleeve from the locking ridge to unlock the packaging apparatus.
- An operation 614 slides the inner sleeve from the outer sleeve.
- An operation 616 latches the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve.
- An operation 618 locks the inner sleeve to the outer sleeve responsive to latching the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve.
- the locking tab of the inner sleeve and the locking tab of the outer sleeve are angled in opposing directions.
Abstract
The technology disclosed herein includes a re-lockable, environmentally friendly packaging apparatus including an outer sleeve, an inner sleeve, and at least one locking mechanism configured to lock the inner sleeve inside the outer sleeve. In some implementations, the locking mechanism is an interior mechanism, which locks the inner sleeve in its entirety in the outer sleeve. In some implementations, the locking mechanism is an interior sliding mechanism, which permits the inner sleeve to move partially out of the outer sleeve. In some implementations, the inner sleeve includes a pull tab for removal of the inner sleeve from inside the outer sleeve.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/071,884, entitled “LOCKING PACKAGING CONTAINER,” filed on Oct. 15, 2020, and U.S. Provisional patent application No. 62/915,602, entitled “LOCKING PACKAGING CONTAINER,” filed on Oct. 15, 2019, which are specifically incorporated by reference for all they disclose and teach.
- Cartons or other paperboard containers may be used for holding and storing items. In some implementations, the items held or stored in the containers may be harmful to certain users, such as children (e.g., a pharmaceutical drug, tobacco, etc.). A user may desire to hold or store items in a lockable, child-resistant container.
- The technology disclosed herein includes an environmentally friendly, re-lockable packaging apparatus comprising an outer sleeve, an inner sleeve, and at least one locking mechanism configured to lock the inner sleeve inside the outer sleeve, wherein a locking tab of the inner sleeve connected to a bottom panel of the inner sleeve is configured to move from a position in between and substantially parallel to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve and a middle panel of the outer sleeve to an angled position protruding into a first area of the outer sleeve proximate to a bottom panel of the outer sleeve and adjacent to the middle panel of the outer sleeve, and engage a locking ridge located on an end of the middle panel of the outer sleeve. The edge of the locking ridge and edge of the locking tab of the inner sleeve may be arc-shaped and the edge of the locking ridge and edge of the locking tab of the inner sleeve may be configured to oppose one another to form the first locking mechanism.
- In some implementations, the packaging apparatus includes an aperture located on the bottom panel of the outer sleeve wherein a user can access the locking tab of the inner sleeve when the inner sleeve is positioned inside the outer sleeve in a closed configuration. The user can press the locking tab of the inner sleeve into the outer sleeve via the aperture and disengage the locking tab of the inner sleeve from the locking ridge to unlock the packaging apparatus. In some implementations, the first locking mechanism locks the inner sleeve in its entirety inside the outer sleeve.
- In some implementations, the packaging apparatus includes a second locking mechanism of the packaging apparatus configured to lock the inner sleeve to the outer sleeve responsive to sliding the inner sleeve from the outer sleeve until the locking tab of the inner sleeve latches onto the locking tab of the outer sleeve. The locking tab of the inner sleeve and the locking tab of the outer sleeve may be angled in opposing directions. In some implementations, the second locking mechanism prevents the inner sleeve from sliding entirely out of the outer sleeve and/or locks the inner sleeve partially inside the outer sleeve.
- In some implementations, the packaging apparatus includes a storage compartment located in the inner sleeve. In some implementations, the packaging apparatus includes at least one perforated top panel in the storage compartment, which may be pressed into the storage compartment to serve as a cradle or holder to receive and hold a storage item in place. The packaging apparatus may include a pull tab for removal of the inner sleeve from inside the outer sleeve. The packaging apparatus may include a permanently fixed dog-eared tuck located on an end of the outer sleeve.
- In some implementations, the disclosed technology includes a packaging apparatus, which includes a method of sliding an inner sleeve into an outer sleeve of a packaging apparatus, moving a locking tab of the inner sleeve connected to a bottom panel of the inner sleeve from a position in between and substantially parallel to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve and a middle panel of the outer sleeve to an angled position protruding into a first area of the outer sleeve proximate to a bottom panel of the outer sleeve and adjacent to the middle panel of the outer sleeve, engaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve with a locking ridge located on an end of the middle panel of the outer sleeve, and locking the packaging apparatus responsive to engaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve with the locking ridge.
- The method may further include pressing the locking tab of the inner sleeve into the outer sleeve via an aperture located in a bottom panel of the outer sleeve and disengaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve from the locking ridge to unlock the packaging apparatus. The method may further include sliding the inner sleeve from the outer sleeve, latching the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve, and locking the inner sleeve to the outer sleeve responsive to latching the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve. In some implementations, latching the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve is responsive to the locking tab of the inner sleeve and the locking tab of the outer sleeve being angled in opposing directions.
- This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Other features, details, utilities, and advantages of the claimed subject matter will be apparent from the following more particular written Detailed Description of various implementations as further illustrated in the accompanying drawings and defined in the appended claims.
- These and various other features and advantages will be apparent from a reading of the following Detailed Description.
-
FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective top view of an example packaging apparatus in a closed position. -
FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective bottom view of an example packaging apparatus in a closed position. -
FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective top view of an example packaging apparatus in an open position. -
FIGS. 2A-D illustrates perspective views of an example packaging apparatus during assembly. -
FIG. 3A illustrates a plan view of an unassembled example outer sleeve of a packaging apparatus. -
FIG. 3B illustrates a plan view of an unassembled example inner sleeve of a packaging apparatus. -
FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrates side cross-sectional views of an example packaging apparatus during assembly and use. -
FIGS. 5A and B illustrate two enlarged side cross-sectional view of an example packaging apparatus during use. -
FIG. 6 is a flowchart of example operations of using a packaging apparatus. - In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without some of these specific details. For example, while various features are ascribed to particular implementations, it should be appreciated that the features described with respect to one implementation may be incorporated with some implementations as well. Similarly, however, no single feature or features of any described implementation should be considered essential to the invention, as some implementations of the invention may omit such features.
- For purposes of this disclosure, the term “substantially parallel” refers to a position wherein a tab lies sufficiently flat in relation to a first surface in an effort to slide between the first surface and a second surface opposing the first surface. For example, in some implementations, “substantially parallel” may be 0°-5° from the first surface.
- For purposes of this disclosure, the term “locking” refers to a position wherein a tab is caught or latched onto another surface in an effort to prevent movement and create a locking mechanism as the tab is trapped in the latched position. For example, in some implementations, “locking” may mean a tab, for example, is prevented from movement because the tab is fighting against another surface when it is being pulled against the surface.
- The disclosed technology includes packaging apparatuses configured to lock internally. In some implementations, the packaging apparatus may have a storage compartment, or an insert containing a compartment to hold, store, and secure an item. The packaging apparatus are child-resistant, easy to manufacture, and easy to use. In some implementations, the packaging apparatus are environmentally friendly and made of paperboard and have folding capabilities to reduce packaging. In some implementations, the packaging apparatus may be tamper-evident and/or senior-friendly. The packaging apparatus include panels, tabs, flaps, and apertures that may have various shapes (e.g., oval, rectangular, circular, etc.) depending on the intended use and manufacturing requirements (e.g., auto-erecting walls requirements). The panels, tabs, flaps, apertures, and other components of the packaging apparatus may have different locations in the packaging apparatus than what is shown in the figures. For example, a panel or tab may be moved in a packaging apparatus to accommodate better functioning of one of the disclosed locking mechanisms.
- In some implementations, the panels, tabs, flaps, apertures, and other components of the packaging apparatus may have memory properties. Specifically, a locking tab may be able return to an original pre-bended shape or position after the locking tab is pressed in a certain direction. For example, if a paperboard locking tab has memory properties and is attached and extending from an end of a panel, and the paperboard locking tab is moved (or bended) around the end of the panel to be positioned substantially parallel on the panel and released, the locking tab will attempt to return or return to its original pre-bent shape or position.
-
FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective top view of anexample packaging apparatus 100. Thepackaging apparatus 100 has anouter sleeve 102, aninner sleeve 104, and apull tab 106. Thepull tab 106 may be pulled by a user to pull theinner sleeve 104 from theouter sleeve 102 when thepackaging apparatus 100 is in a closed position to open thepackaging apparatus 100. In some implementations, thepull tab 106 may be configured to have a ‘tear away’ function. Specifically, there may be a cut located on both sides of thepull tab 106. If a child, for example, tries to get into thepackaging apparatus 100 and forcefully grabs or pulls thepull tab 106, thetab 106 is configured to rip off or tear away. As a result, thepackaging apparatus 100 is then tamper-evident, and the child will not be able to pull theinner sleeve 104 from theouter sleeve 102 via thepull tab 106. -
FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective bottom view of theexample packaging apparatus 100. Theouter sleeve 102, theinner sleeve 104, and thepull tab 106 are shown. Anaperture 108 is located in abottom panel 112 in the outer sleeve. As shown, the aperture is oval-shaped. The oval shape is intended to accommodate for a user's finger to access inside the outer sleeve and to prevent tampering, which may occur with a square shape, for example. However, in other implementations, theaperture 108 may be other shapes. The size of the aperture is configured to be small enough to prevent a user's finger or fingernails from tearing the packaging apparatus. In some implementations, theaperture 108 may be approximately ½-inch wide and approximately ¼-inch tall, by way of example, but the sizes may vary. - When in the
packaging apparatus 100 is in a closed position, thepackaging apparatus 100 is locked, where theinner sleeve 104 is locked inside theouter sleeve 102. To open thepackaging apparatus 100, a user can press downward on a locking tab on theinner sleeve 116 that is accessible via theaperture 108. When thelocking tab 116 on the inner sleeve is pressed downward, thelocking tab 116 on the inner sleeve moves and disengages from a locking ridge located on an interior middle panel (or glue lap) of the outer sleeve (shown and described in detail inFIGS. 4 and 5 below), and unlocks theinner sleeve 104 from theouter sleeve 102. Theinner sleeve 104 can then be pulled from theouter sleeve 102. - As shown in
FIG. 1B , theaperture 108 is located approximately ⅛ inch from an end of theouter sleeve 102. While the exact location and measurement of the aperture may vary, the location of the aperture in thebottom panel 112 is far enough from the end of theouter sleeve 102 that the locking tab of theinner sleeve 116 can be accessed and disengaged from a locking ridge, and close enough to the end of theouter sleeve 102 that a user (e.g., a child) cannot see the locking mechanism (the end of the locking tab of the inner sleeve interfacing the locking ridge). - In some implementations, the
packaging apparatus 100 may have a second locking mechanism (described in detail inFIG. 4B below) that prevents theinner sleeve 104 from being pulled out its entirety out of theouter sleeve 102, and keeps theinner sleeve 104 connected to theouter sleeve 102. - Referring to
FIG. 1C , thepackaging apparatus 100 is shown in an open position where theinner sleeve 104 is connected to theouter sleeve 102. The arrow shows the direction that theinner sleeve 104 may be moved in and out of theouter sleeve 102. In some implementations, theinner sleeve 104 may be connected to theouter sleeve 102 via a second locking mechanism. Thepull tab 106 connected to theinner sleeve 104 is shown. - The
inner sleeve 104 has aninner sleeve compartment 114 located in atop panel 130 which acts as a storage compartment for holding items in place and for storing items in theouter sleeve 102. Theinner sleeve compartment 114 can vary in design, size, and shape depending on the design and use of thepackaging apparatus 100, as well as the required design for desired items to be stored in theouter sleeve 102. For example, theinner sleeve compartment 114 may be designed to securely hold vials, bottles, a vape cartridge, electronic cigarettes, food products, other objects, etc. in place. In some implementations, there may be multiple compartments. Theinner sleeve compartment 114 may be defined by a number of panels configured in a single sheet of stock or packaging that makes up the inner sleeve 104 (shown and described inFIG. 3B ). - Specifically, the compartment panels (top compartment panels, a compartment bottom panel, compartment side panels, and a middle panel of the inner sleeve) are located adjacent to exterior inner sleeve panels in a sheet of stock and configure to make the
inner sleeve compartment 114. The compartment panels can form side walls, a top panel of theinner sleeve compartment 114, and a bottom panel of theinner sleeve compartment 114 that are positioned over the middle panel of the inner sleeve. Once theinner sleeve compartment 114 is constructed, the two compartment side panels form partitions in theinner sleeve 104 that form three tube-like compartments that run the length of the inner sleeve as well as add two additional walls in theinner sleeve 104 for added structural integrity. One of the tube-like compartments becomes the inner sleeve compartment and the other two tube-like compartments are not accessible from the outside of the packaging apparatus. In some implementations, the inner sleeve does not have an end panel and the three compartments are open, to conserve on packaging material. This open end of the inner sleeve faces inside the outer sleeve when the inner sleeve is inserted into the outer sleeve. - Contents or storage items are stored in the
inner sleeve compartment 114. In some implementations, contents may be kept in place by a perforated top panel (e.g., see perforatedtop panel 368 inFIG. 3B ). For example, the perforated top panel may be configured to separate in the middle (e.g., the line in the middle of the panel) into two separate pieces or panels and bend at various desired perforations (e.g., at one or more of the other six perforation lines shown) into theinner compartment 114 to create an automatic cradle and secure fitting for a content to be stored. - In some implementations, there may be one or more aperture located in the top panel(s) 368 to receive a storage item to further secure it in place in the
inner sleeve compartment 114. The top panel(s) 368 may be configured to move down into the inner sleeve compartment adjacent to the inner compartment sidewalls 376 a and 376 b, and in some implementations, contacting a bottom panel of thecompartment 384. - The components of the
packaging apparatus 100 can comprise of one or more materials (i.e., paperboard, wax paper, aluminum foil, cellophane, plastic, thermoformed plastic material such as polystyrenes, polypropylenes, polyethylenes, polyethylene terephthalates, polyvinyl chloride polystyrenes, polyvinylydene chlorides, fluoride resins, polycarbonates, polyamides, polyphenylene oxides, and combinations thereof, etc.), and of varying measurements, depending on the storage requirements for the storage items. For example, in some implementations, all of thepackaging apparatus 100 may be paperboard of varying thickness. In some implementations, the interior walls of theouter sleeve 102 may have a lining or tray made of a material different than theouter sleeve 102. For example, theouter sleeve 102 may be made of paperboard, and a lining on the interior walls of theouter sleeve 102 may be plastic or another material that cannot be ripped or torn, reinforcing the child-resistant nature of thepackaging apparatus 100. Or, in another implementation, theinner sleeve 104 may be made of both a plastic material and a paperboard material to provide additional durability. - In some implementations, the packaging apparatus may include silicone to minimize the risk of moisture build-up, or parchment paper if storage items are sticky, or other materials which may provide an airtight or moisture-free environment or prevent freezing or other temperature change. Other materials are contemplated that prevent against moisture and humidity, direct light, sources of heat, contamination, mildew or mold, and bugs.
- In some implementations, scoring of the components may allow for memory, and different thicknesses of material may be used for rigidity. In some implementations, plastic laminate may be included in the packaging apparatus so that the packaging is tear-proof.
- In some implementations, the packaging apparatus includes at least one additional interior locking mechanism (described in detail in
FIG. 4 ) configured to lock theinner sleeve 104 to theouter sleeve 102 in both open and closed configurations. -
FIGS. 2A-D illustrate perspective views ofexample packaging apparatus 200 during assembly.FIG. 2A illustrates theouter sleeve 202 separated from theinner sleeve 204 before assembly. Alocking tab 218 on theouter sleeve 202 is connected to an end of the bottom panel of theouter sleeve 212. Theinner sleeve 204 has aninner sleeve compartment 214 shown in the top panel of theinner sleeve 230. A locking tab on theinner sleeve 216 is connected to an end of theinner sleeve 204. Apull tab 206 is also shown on theinner sleeve 204. -
FIG. 2B illustrates that the locking tab of theinner sleeve 216 connected to theinner sleeve 204 may be pressed down and rotated around, or backward, in a direction to lay approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to an exterior surface of a bottom panel of theinner sleeve 204. The locking tab of theouter sleeve 218 located on the end of theouter sleeve 202 may be moved upward and pressed into the inside of theouter sleeve 208 to lay approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to the interior surface of a panel (e.g., see a glue lap ormiddle panel 392 located on the bottom panel, shown inFIG. 2A ) of theouter sleeve 202. Once theinner sleeve 204 is fully inserted into theouter sleeve 202, a first locking mechanism locks theinner sleeve 204 inside theouter sleeve 202. -
FIG. 2C illustrates theinner sleeve 204 being inserted into theouter sleeve 202, as the locking tab of theinner sleeve 216 connected to theinner sleeve 204 is positioned approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to abottom panel 232 of theinner sleeve 204, and the locking tab of theouter sleeve 218 on theouter sleeve 202 is positioned inside theouter sleeve 202 approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to a glue lap or middle panel of the outer sleeve (not shown) located on the interior surface of a bottom panel of theouter sleeve 202. -
FIG. 2D illustrates theinner sleeve 204 inserted in theouter sleeve 202. The locking tab of theinner sleeve 216 connected to theinner sleeve 204 is shown accessible through theaperture 208 located in the bottom panel of theouter sleeve 212. To open thepackaging apparatus 200, a user can unlock the locking tab of the inner sleeve and pull thepull tab 206 of theinner sleeve 204 to slide theinner sleeve 204 from theouter sleeve 206. -
FIG. 3A illustrates a plan view of an unassembled exampleouter sleeve 302 of apackaging apparatus 300. The plan view of theouter sleeve 302 is an example, and there may be variations on how theouter sleeve 302 is assembled. Theouter sleeve 302 includes several panels that can be folded onto each other to create rectangular packaging with one open end. As shown, the unassembled exampleouter sleeve 302 is a single sheet of packaging material that includes panels, tabs and dust flaps. - A first layer of adhesive of the
outer sleeve 336 is shown as applied to afirst glue lap 392, an interior panel of theouter sleeve 302. A “glue lap” may be referred to as a packaging panel or extra stock in which glue or other adhesive is applied in order to attach the glue lap to another panel or surface in thepackaging apparatus 300. Glue laps may be added to packaging for various reasons, including for extra reinforcement to packaging, to create compartments, and to act as locking mechanisms. For purposes of this disclosure, a glue lap may also be defined as a particular panel. For example, thefirst glue lap 392 is also the middle panel in theouter sleeve 302. As described below, during assembly, thefirst glue lap 392 folds onto thebottom panel 312 of theouter sleeve 302 and the first layer of adhesive of theouter sleeve 336 seals thefirst glue lap 392 onto the interior surface of the bottom panel of theouter sleeve 312. As shown in the figures and described herein, a “layer of adhesive” is depicted as where the layer of adhesive is applied on a given panel of the single sheet of packaging material, and the area upon which the panel will seal to another panel or packaging surface. - The locking tab of the
outer sleeve 318 is connected to an end of the bottom panel of theouter sleeve 312. The locking tab of theouter sleeve 318 has memory properties. During use of thepackaging apparatus 300, the locking tab of theouter sleeve 318 may be moved inside theouter sleeve 302 to form part of a second locking mechanism when theinner sleeve 304 is moved from the outer sleeve 302 (described in detail inFIG. 4B ). - A reinforcement panel of the
outer sleeve 338 may also be folded into the interior of theouter sleeve 302. In some implementations, the reinforcement panel of theouter sleeve 338 is glued against the top panelouter sleeve 348. The reinforcement panel of theouter sleeve 338 wraps around the end of the outer sleeve so that the edges of theouter sleeve 302 are rounded (rather than square), which prevents tampering of the packaging apparatus. - Dust flaps 346 a and 346 b are located adjacent to the
side panels - To assemble the
outer sleeve 302, the first glue lap of theouter sleeve 392 is folded into theouter sleeve 302, where the first glue lap of theouter sleeve 392 is located opposite the top panel of theouter sleeve 348 and the side panel 120 b forms one side to theouter sleeve 302. The bottom panel of theouter sleeve 312 is folded on top of the first glue lap of theouter sleeve 392 attaching via the first adhesive of theouter sleeve 336. The side panel 120 a forms a second side to theouter sleeve 302. Theside panels outer sleeve 392, the bottom panel of theouter sleeve 312, and the top panel of theouter sleeve 348. - Once the outer walls (e.g., top panel of the
outer sleeve 348, bottom panel of theouter sleeve 312,side panels outer sleeve 302, and afirst end flap 340 is folded to close an end of theouter sleeve 302. Asecond glue lap 342 may be folded onto thefirst end flap 340 and secured to thefirst end flap 340 with a second layer of adhesive of theouter sleeve 344. Thedust flap fourth flap 340, andsecond glue lap 342, in combination together, create a “dog-eared tuck” located on the end of theouter sleeve 302, which is a permanently fixed and child-resistant end of the packaging, which requires tearing to open thepackaging apparatus 300 once it is closed and locked. - A locking ridge or
edge 322 is configured on thefirst glue lap 392. A locking ridge oredge 322 is an edge located on the end of thefirst glue lap 392 proximate to the bottom panel of theouter sleeve 312. Once thepackaging apparatus 300 is assembled, after theinner sleeve 304 is inserted into theouter sleeve 302, and during use, the packaging apparatus is in a closed configuration. A locking tab of theinner sleeve 316 can latch, engage, or otherwise “lock” onto the lockingridge 322 and lock theinner sleeve 304 inside the outer sleeve 302 (described in more detail below). When the locking tab of theinner sleeve 316 of theinner sleeve 304 has latched onto the lockingridge 322, a user is prevented from pulling theinner sleeve 304 out of theouter sleeve 302. -
FIG. 3B illustrates a plan view of an unassembled example inner sleeve of apackaging apparatus 300. The plan view of theinner sleeve 304 is an example, and there may be variations on how theinner sleeve 304 is assembled. Theinner sleeve 304 includes several panels that can be folded onto each other to create rectangular packaging. In some implementations, the inner sleeve has one open end. As shown, the unassembled exampleinner sleeve 304 is a single sheet of packaging material that includes panels, tabs, and dust flaps. - A top panel of the
inner sleeve 330 is shown with the bottom panel of theinner sleeve 332 with twoside panels inner sleeve 332 is shown with a first adhesive of theinner sleeve 370 located on an end. Theinner sleeve 304 has apull tab 306, and an end panel of theinner sleeve 386. A locking tab of theinner sleeve 316 is shown attached to the end of the bottom panel of theinner sleeve 332. The reinforcement panel of theinner sleeve 328 is shown attached to an end panel of theinner sleeve 386, which is attached to the top panel of theinner sleeve 330. Acompartment panel 368 is located in the top panel of theinner sleeve 330. - The side panel of the
inner sleeve 372 b is connected to components that make up theinner compartment 114, shown inFIG. 1C . Specifically, the side panel of theinner sleeve 372 b is connected to a middle panel of theinner sleeve 388, which is shown with a second layer of adhesive of theinner sleeve 374. The middle panel of theinner sleeve 388 is connected to acompartment side wall 376 a. - The
compartment side panel 376 a is connected to components compartmenttop panels compartment aperture 390. Third layers of adhesive of theinner sleeve compartment top panels compartment top panels compartment side panel 376 b, which is attached to a bottom panel of thecompartment 384. A fourth layer of adhesive of theinner sleeve 382 is located on the bottom panel of thecompartment 384. - When assembled, an inner sleeve compartment (e.g.,
inner sleeve compartment 114 shown inFIG. 1C ) is created by the bottom panel of thecompartment 384 folding or rolling into theinner sleeve 304 where the bottom panel of thecompartment 384 attaches and seals via the fourth layer of adhesive of theinner sleeve 304 onto the middle panel of theinner sleeve 388. The middle panel of theinner sleeve 388 is folded and sealed onto the interior surface of the bottom panel of theinner sleeve 332 via the second layer of adhesive of theinner sleeve 374. The top panel of theinner sleeve 330 may be folded onto the top of the third layers of adhesive of theinner sleeve inner sleeve 330 to the top panels of thecompartment - The bottom panel of the
inner sleeve 332 folds and seals onto middle panel of theinner sleeve 388 via a second adhesive of theinner sleeve 374. - The tab or
dust flap 346 is then folded in toward the inside of theinner sleeve 304 and theend panel 386 of theinner sleeve 332 wraps around thetab 346. The reinforcement panel of theinner sleeve 328 wraps around to the exterior surface of the bottom panel of the inner sleeve attaching and sealing to the first layer of adhesive of theinner sleeve 370, sealing the end of theinner sleeve 304. The reinforcement panel of theinner sleeve 328 wraps around the end of theinner sleeve 304 so that the edges of the closed end of theouter sleeve 302 are rounded (rather than square), which prevents tampering of the packaging apparatus. - As shown in
FIGS. 3A and 3B , the locking tab of theinner sleeve 316 and the lockingridge 322 are both arc-shaped. When thepackaging apparatus 300 is assembled and in a closed configuration with theinner sleeve 304 entirely inserted into in theouter sleeve 302, the arc-shaped end of the locking tab of theinner sleeve 316 and the arc-shaped end of the lockingridge 322, which are inverse cut-outs of each other, nest opposite one another and together are fighting edges that lock thepackaging apparatus 300. -
FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate side cross-sectional views of an example packaging apparatus during various steps 452-462 of assembly and use. In astep 452, theinner sleeve 404 is shown detached from theouter sleeve 402 prior to assembly of the packaging apparatus 400. Prior to inserting theinner sleeve 404 into theouter sleeve 402 to assemble the packaging apparatus 400, the locking tab on theinner sleeve 416 may be positioned approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to the exterior surface of thebottom panel 432 of theinner sleeve 404. The locking tab of theouter sleeve 418 may be pushed inside theouter sleeve 402 and positioned approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to thefirst glue lap 492 located on the interior surface of abottom panel 412 of theouter sleeve 402. In astep 454, theinner sleeve 404 is shown partially inserted into theouter sleeve 402, where when theinner sleeve 404 enters theouter sleeve 402, the locking tab on theinner sleeve 416 stays positioned approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to the exterior surface of thebottom panel 432 of theinner sleeve 404 and the locking tab of theouter sleeve 418 stays positioned approximately adjacent or substantially parallel to the first glue lap 436 located on the interior surface of abottom panel 412 of theouter sleeve 402. - In a
step 456, theinner sleeve 404 is shown entirely inserted into theouter sleeve 402 in a locked position. The locking tab on theinner sleeve 416, which has moved past the first glue lap 436 of theouter sleeve 404, springs into an area (shown in greater detail inFIG. 5 ) in theouter sleeve 402 adjacent the interior surface of abottom panel 412 of theouter sleeve 402 due to its memory properties. Once the locking tab on theinner sleeve 416 moves past the first glue lap 436, the locking tab on theinner sleeve 416 locks onto a lockingedge 422 on the glue lap 436. As a result, theinner sleeve 404 is locked inside theouter sleeve 402. - In a
step 458, theinner sleeve 404 is shown entirely inserted into theouter sleeve 402 in an unlocked position. Specifically, a user can apply pressure to the locking tab on theinner sleeve 416 by inserting either a thumb, finger, key, or other instrument through theaperture 408 located in thebottom panel 412 of theouter sleeve 402 and push the locking tab on theinner sleeve 416 upward into the interior ofouter sleeve 402 past the lockingedge 422. - Once the locking tab on the
inner sleeve 416 clears the lockingedge 422, theinner sleeve 402 can be pulled by thepull tab 406 from theouter sleeve 402, opening the packaging apparatus 400. As shown instep 460, theinner sleeve 404 is shown partially pulled out of theouter sleeve 402 in an unlocked position. A user can access contents inside theinner sleeve 404 when the inner sleeve is partially pulled out of theouter sleeve 402. - As the user continues to pull the
inner sleeve 404 from theouter sleeve 402, the locking tab on theinner sleeve 416, which is facing in a direction opposite the direction that the locking tab of theouter sleeve 418 is facing, catches on the locking tab of theouter sleeve 418. Specifically, the end of thelocking tab 416 slides in between the locking tab of theouter sleeve 418 and the middle panel of theouter sleeve 492 and hooks proximate to the interface where the end of the locking tab of theouter sleeve 418 is connected to the bottom panel of theouter sleeve 412 and adjacent to the middle panel of theouter sleeve 492. As a result, the opposing locking tabs lock against each other, and theinner sleeve 404 is prevented from being entirely pulled out of theouter sleeve 402. Theinner sleeve 404 is shown partially pulled out of theouter sleeve 402 in a locked position in astep 462. -
FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate enlarged, side cross-sectional views of an example packaging apparatus during use instep 456 ofFIG. 4 , where the packaging apparatus is in a closed configuration by the first locking mechanism. Theinner sleeve 504 is shown entirely inserted into theouter sleeve 502 in a locked position. The locking tab on theinner sleeve 516, has moved past thefirst glue lap 592 of theouter sleeve 504, into an area in theouter sleeve 502 adjacent the interior surface of abottom panel 512 of theouter sleeve 502 because of its memory properties. The locking tab on theinner sleeve 516 has moved past the first glue lap 536 and locked onto a lockingedge 522 on theglue lap 592. As a result, theinner sleeve 504 is locked inside theouter sleeve 502. - To unlock the
packaging apparatus 500, a user presses down on the locking tab of theinner sleeve 516 via theaperture 508 and pushes thelocking tab 516 into the outer sleeve, disengaging the locking tab of theinner sleeve 516 from the lockingedge 522. The inner sleeve can then be pulled from the outer sleeve by thepull tab 506. -
FIG. 6 is a flowchart ofexample operations 600 during use of the packaging apparatus. Anoperation 602 slides an inner sleeve into an outer sleeve of a packaging apparatus. In some implementations, the inner sleeve may be partially inside the outer sleeve duringoperation 602. In other implementations, if the inner sleeve is not yet inside the outer sleeve, a user can fold a locking tab of the outer sleeve located on an end of the bottom panel of the outer sleeve into the outer sleeve and to a position substantially parallel to a surface of a middle panel (or glue lap) of the outer sleeve attached the interior surface of the bottom panel of the outer sleeve, and fold a locking tab of the inner sleeve located on an end of the bottom panel of the inner sleeve around to a position substantially parallel to an exterior surface of the bottom panel of the inner sleeve before sliding the inner sleeve into the outer sleeve. - As the inner sleeve enters the outer sleeve in
operation 602, the locking tab of the inner sleeve remains substantially parallel to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve - An
operation 604 moves a locking tab of the inner sleeve connected to an end of a bottom panel of the inner sleeve from a position in between and substantially parallel to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve and a middle panel of the outer sleeve to an angled position protruding into a first area of the outer sleeve proximate to a bottom panel of the outer sleeve and adjacent to the middle panel of the outer sleeve. - An
operation 606 engages the locking tab of the inner sleeve with a locking ridge located on an end of the middle panel of the outer sleeve. Anoperation 608 locks the packaging apparatus responsive to engaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve with the locking ridge. - An
operation 610 presses the locking tab of the inner sleeve into the outer sleeve via an aperture located in a bottom panel of the outer sleeve. Anoperation 612 disengages the locking tab of the inner sleeve from the locking ridge to unlock the packaging apparatus. - An
operation 614 slides the inner sleeve from the outer sleeve. Anoperation 616 latches the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve. Anoperation 618 locks the inner sleeve to the outer sleeve responsive to latching the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve. In some implementations, the locking tab of the inner sleeve and the locking tab of the outer sleeve are angled in opposing directions. - The above specification, examples, and data provide a complete description of the structure and use of exemplary embodiments of the disclosed technology. Since many embodiments of the disclosed technology can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed technology, the disclosed technology resides in the claims hereinafter appended. Furthermore, structural features of the different embodiments may be combined in yet another embodiment without departing from the recited claims.
Claims (20)
1. A method comprising:
sliding an inner sleeve into an outer sleeve of a packaging apparatus, wherein the outer sleeve comprises a bottom panel of the outer sleeve, a top panel of the outer sleeve, a middle panel of the outer sleeve, a locking tab of the outer sleeve, a first side panel of the outer sleeve, and a second side panel of the outer sleeve,
wherein, in an unassembled configuration, the bottom panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the first side panel of the outer sleeve, the first side panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the top panel of the outer sleeve, the top panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the second side panel of the outer sleeve, the middle panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the second side panel of the outer sleeve, the locking tab of the outer sleeve is attached to the bottom panel of the outer sleeve, and the top panel, the first side panel, and the second side panel separate and are positioned between the middle panel and the bottom panel,
wherein, in an assembled configuration, the middle panel of the outer sleeve forming a glue lap that is glued to the bottom panel of the outer sleeve;
moving a locking tab of the inner sleeve connected to a bottom panel of the inner sleeve from a position in between and substantially parallel to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve and a middle panel of the outer sleeve to an angled position protruding into a first area of the outer sleeve proximate to a bottom panel of the outer sleeve and adjacent to the middle panel of the outer sleeve;
engaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve with a locking ridge located on an end of the middle panel of the outer sleeve; and
locking the packaging apparatus responsive to engaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve with the locking ridge.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:
pressing the locking tab of the inner sleeve into the outer sleeve via an aperture located in a bottom panel of the outer sleeve; and
disengaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve from the locking ridge to unlock the packaging apparatus.
3. The method of claim 2 , further comprises:
sliding the inner sleeve from the outer sleeve;
latching the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve; and
locking the inner sleeve to the outer sleeve responsive to latching the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein latching the locking tab of the inner sleeve onto a locking tab of the outer sleeve is responsive to the locking tab of the inner sleeve and the locking tab of the outer sleeve being angled in opposing directions.
5. A method comprising:
providing an inner sleeve of a packaging apparatus comprising a bottom panel of the inner sleeve, a top panel of the inner sleeve, a first side panel of the inner sleeve, a second side panel of the inner sleeve, a middle panel of the inner sleeve, a locking tab of the inner sleeve, a first compartment side panel of the inner sleeve, two compartment top panels of the inner sleeve, and a second compartment side panel,
wherein, in an unassembled configuration, the bottom panel of the inner sleeve is attached to the first side panel of the inner sleeve, the first side panel of the inner sleeve is attached to the top panel of the inner sleeve, the top panel of the inner sleeve is attached to the second side panel of the inner sleeve, the middle panel of the inner sleeve attached to the second side panel of the inner sleeve, the locking tab of the inner sleeve is attached to the bottom panel of the outer sleeve, the first compartment side panel of the inner sleeve is attached to the middle panel of the inner sleeve, the two compartment top panels of the inner sleeve are attached to the first compartment side panel of the inner sleeve, and the second compartment side panel of the inner sleeve is attached to the two compartment top panels of the inner sleeve,
wherein, in an assembled configuration, the middle panel of the inner sleeve is attached to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve and the bottom panel of the inner sleeve, the middle panel of the inner sleeve, the two compartment top panels of the inner sleeve, the first compartment side panel of the inner sleeve, and the second compartment side panel of the inner sleeve at least partially define an inner compartment of the inner sleeve.
6. The method of claim 5 , further comprises:
providing an outer sleeve of the packaging apparatus comprising a bottom panel of the outer sleeve, a top panel of the outer sleeve, a middle panel of the outer sleeve, a locking tab of the outer sleeve, a first side panel of the outer sleeve, and a second side panel of the outer sleeve,
wherein, in an unassembled configuration, the bottom panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the first side panel of the outer sleeve, the first side panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the top panel of the outer sleeve, the top panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the second side panel of the outer sleeve, the middle panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the second side panel of the outer sleeve, the locking tab of the outer sleeve is attached to the bottom panel of the outer sleeve, and the top panel, the first side panel, and the second side panel separate and are positioned between the middle panel and the bottom panel,
wherein, in an assembled configuration, the middle panel of the outer sleeve forming a glue lap that is glued to the bottom panel of the outer sleeve.
7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the packaging apparatus comprises a first locking mechanism comprising the middle panel of the outer sleeve and configured to lock the inner sleeve inside the outer sleeve responsive to sliding the inner sleeve inside the outer sleeve.
8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the locking tab of the inner sleeve connected to an end of a bottom panel of the inner sleeve.
9. The method of claim 8 , further comprising moving the locking tab of the inner sleeve from a position in between and substantially parallel to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve and the middle panel of the outer sleeve to an angled position protruding into a first area of the outer sleeve proximate to an end panel of the bottom sleeve and the bottom panel of the outer sleeve and adjacent to the middle panel of the outer sleeve.
10. The method of claim 9 , further comprising engaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve with a locking ridge located on an end of the middle panel of the outer sleeve.
11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the packaging apparatus comprises a second locking mechanism configured to lock the inner sleeve to the outer sleeve responsive to sliding the inner sleeve from the outer sleeve until the locking tab of the inner sleeve latches onto the locking tab of the outer sleeve, the locking tab of the inner sleeve and the locking tab of the outer sleeve angled in opposing directions.
12. The method of claim 11 , wherein the packaging apparatus comprises an aperture located on the bottom panel of the outer sleeve wherein a user can access the locking tab of the inner sleeve when the inner sleeve is positioned inside the outer sleeve in a closed configuration.
13. The method of claim 12 , further comprising pressing the locking tab of the inner sleeve into the outer sleeve via the aperture and disengaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve from the locking ridge to unlock the packaging apparatus.
14. The method of claim 13 , further comprising preventing, with the second locking mechanism, the inner sleeve from sliding entirely out of the outer sleeve.
15. The method of claim 14 , further comprising locking, with the second locking mechanism, the inner sleeve partially inside the outer sleeve.
16. A method comprises:
providing an inner sleeve; and
providing an outer sleeve of the packaging apparatus comprising a bottom panel of the outer sleeve, a top panel of the outer sleeve, a middle panel of the outer sleeve, a locking tab of the outer sleeve, a first side panel of the outer sleeve, and a second side panel of the outer sleeve,
wherein, in an unassembled configuration, the bottom panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the first side panel of the outer sleeve, the first side panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the top panel of the outer sleeve, the top panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the second side panel of the outer sleeve, the middle panel of the outer sleeve is attached to the second side panel of the outer sleeve, the locking tab of the outer sleeve is attached to the bottom panel of the outer sleeve, and the top panel, the first side panel, and the second side panel separate and are positioned between the middle panel and the bottom panel,
wherein, in an assembled configuration, the middle panel of the outer sleeve forming a glue lap that is glued to the bottom panel of the outer sleeve.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the packaging apparatus comprises a first locking mechanism comprising the middle panel of the outer sleeve and configured to lock the inner sleeve inside the outer sleeve responsive to sliding the inner sleeve inside the outer sleeve.
18. The method of claim 17 , wherein a locking tab of the inner sleeve connected to an end of a bottom panel of the inner sleeve.
19. The method of claim 18 , further comprising moving the locking tab of the inner sleeve from a position in between and substantially parallel to the bottom panel of the inner sleeve and the middle panel of the outer sleeve to an angled position protruding into a first area of the outer sleeve proximate to an end panel of the bottom sleeve and the bottom panel of the outer sleeve and adjacent to the middle panel of the outer sleeve.
20. The method of claim 19 , further comprising engaging the locking tab of the inner sleeve with a locking ridge located on an end of the middle panel of the outer sleeve.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US18/192,117 US20230234761A1 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2023-03-29 | Locking packaging container |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
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US201962915602P | 2019-10-15 | 2019-10-15 | |
US17/071,884 US11628990B2 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2020-10-15 | Locking packaging container |
US18/192,117 US20230234761A1 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2023-03-29 | Locking packaging container |
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US17/071,884 Division US11628990B2 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2020-10-15 | Locking packaging container |
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US20230234761A1 true US20230234761A1 (en) | 2023-07-27 |
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US17/071,884 Active US11628990B2 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2020-10-15 | Locking packaging container |
US18/192,117 Pending US20230234761A1 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2023-03-29 | Locking packaging container |
US18/299,681 Pending US20230242308A1 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2023-04-12 | Systems and methods for locking packaging container |
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US17/071,884 Active US11628990B2 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2020-10-15 | Locking packaging container |
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US18/299,681 Pending US20230242308A1 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2023-04-12 | Systems and methods for locking packaging container |
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US (3) | US11628990B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP4045417A4 (en) |
CN (1) | CN115210146A (en) |
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USD867129S1 (en) * | 2016-04-14 | 2019-11-19 | All Packaging Company | Locking packaging container |
ES2961273T3 (en) * | 2019-08-16 | 2024-03-11 | Philip Morris Products Sa | Container with box and sleeve with locking mechanism |
USD956551S1 (en) * | 2020-04-16 | 2022-07-05 | Ripa, Llc | Child-resistant container assembly |
US11673707B2 (en) * | 2020-04-16 | 2023-06-13 | Ripa, Llc | Child-resistant container assembly |
US20230249870A1 (en) * | 2020-06-22 | 2023-08-10 | Shenzhen First Union Technology Co., Ltd. | Packing box |
USD1018274S1 (en) | 2020-07-24 | 2024-03-19 | All Packaging Company Llc | Packaging container |
USD1018273S1 (en) | 2020-07-24 | 2024-03-19 | All Packaging Company Llc | Packaging container |
USD993764S1 (en) * | 2020-07-24 | 2023-08-01 | All Packaging Company Llc | Locking packaging container |
US11787610B2 (en) * | 2020-11-05 | 2023-10-17 | Zenpack | Child-proof container |
USD969604S1 (en) * | 2020-11-12 | 2022-11-15 | Sunshine Enclosures LLC | Inviolate box |
US11447311B2 (en) * | 2020-12-04 | 2022-09-20 | Superior Bindery Inc. | Child-safe cannabis packaging |
CN218368814U (en) * | 2022-06-22 | 2023-01-24 | 深圳市裕同包装科技股份有限公司 | Packing box and paperboard structure |
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JP2007511433A (en) * | 2003-11-13 | 2007-05-10 | ミードウエストベコ・コーポレーション | Lockable container with inner tray |
BRPI0506728A (en) * | 2004-01-07 | 2007-05-02 | Meadwestvaco Corp | packing |
EP2576363A1 (en) * | 2010-06-01 | 2013-04-10 | MeadWestvaco Corporation | Single piece container for securing an insert card |
ITBO20100368A1 (en) | 2010-06-11 | 2011-12-12 | Gd Spa | PACKAGE OF SMOKE ARTICLES WITH SLIDING OPENING. |
US8342330B2 (en) * | 2010-07-19 | 2013-01-01 | Key-Pak Technologies, Llc | Child-resistant and senior-friendly eco-friendly pill dispenser blister package |
WO2012112538A1 (en) * | 2011-02-14 | 2012-08-23 | Meadwestvaco Corporation | Container with locking or retention feature |
US8499936B2 (en) * | 2011-03-15 | 2013-08-06 | Nosco, Inc. | Product packaging system with button lock release |
US9981788B2 (en) | 2014-07-01 | 2018-05-29 | Ingersoll Paper Box Co., Limited | Child-resistant package |
WO2016138305A1 (en) * | 2015-02-27 | 2016-09-01 | Everett Munson Whitman | Child-resistant packaging systems and methods |
US9783335B2 (en) * | 2015-02-27 | 2017-10-10 | Munson Whitman Everett | Child-resistant packaging systems and methods |
US10518927B2 (en) * | 2016-04-14 | 2019-12-31 | All Packaging Company | Locking packaging container |
US10479581B2 (en) * | 2016-04-14 | 2019-11-19 | All Packaging Company | Locking packaging container |
GB2566555A (en) | 2017-09-19 | 2019-03-20 | Multi Packaging Solutions Uk Ltd | Packaging |
CN109878854A (en) * | 2017-12-06 | 2019-06-14 | 尼克 | Packing box with retaining mechanism |
WO2019152763A1 (en) * | 2018-02-01 | 2019-08-08 | Westrock Mwv, Llc | Unit dose packaging system (udps) having child resistant locking feature with focused push button |
JP3216684U (en) | 2018-04-05 | 2018-06-14 | 富山スガキ株式会社 | Sliding packaging box with locking mechanism |
WO2020033044A1 (en) * | 2018-08-06 | 2020-02-13 | Diamond Packaging | Locking package |
US11345507B2 (en) * | 2019-07-21 | 2022-05-31 | 14Th Round Inc. | Biodegradable child resistant packaging container |
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- 2020-10-15 IL IL292301A patent/IL292301A/en unknown
- 2020-10-15 EP EP20876629.5A patent/EP4045417A4/en active Pending
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CN115210146A (en) | 2022-10-18 |
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US20210107712A1 (en) | 2021-04-15 |
US20230242308A1 (en) | 2023-08-03 |
IL292301A (en) | 2022-06-01 |
EP4045417A1 (en) | 2022-08-24 |
WO2021076803A1 (en) | 2021-04-22 |
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Owner name: ALL PACKAGING COMPANY LLC, COLORADO Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:ALL PACKAGING COMPANY;REEL/FRAME:065157/0648 Effective date: 20210205 Owner name: ALL PACKAGING COMPANY, COLORADO Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:CHAMBERS, CHRISTOPHER;REEL/FRAME:065139/0862 Effective date: 20191030 |