US20240109683A1 - Container With Dividers - Google Patents
Container With Dividers Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20240109683A1 US20240109683A1 US18/372,207 US202318372207A US2024109683A1 US 20240109683 A1 US20240109683 A1 US 20240109683A1 US 202318372207 A US202318372207 A US 202318372207A US 2024109683 A1 US2024109683 A1 US 2024109683A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- panel
- divider
- central
- foldably connected
- end panel
- 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
Links
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- 235000012495 crackers Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000000994 depressogenic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- 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
- B65D5/48—Partitions
- B65D5/48002—Partitions integral
- B65D5/48018—Partitions integral formed by folding extensions of side panels of a "cross-like" body blank
-
- 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
- B65D5/20—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper by folding-up portions connected to a central panel from all sides to form a container body, e.g. of tray-like form
- B65D5/24—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper by folding-up portions connected to a central panel from all sides to form a container body, e.g. of tray-like form with adjacent sides interconnected by gusset folds
-
- 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
- B65D5/48—Partitions
- B65D5/48002—Partitions integral
- B65D5/48022—Partitions integral formed by two parallel panels located in the base of a tray being folded up towards each other
Definitions
- the present disclosure generally relates to cartons, containers, trays, and/or other constructs for holding food products and/or other types of articles and/or products. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to containers/trays with dividing features.
- one aspect of the disclosure is generally directed to a container for holding one or more products.
- the container can comprise a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the container.
- the plurality of panels can comprise at least a bottom panel.
- the container further can comprise one or more integrated dividers extending at least upwardly from the bottom panel to at least partially form a plurality of receiving spaces in the interior of the container.
- the disclosure is generally directed to a blank for forming a container for holding one or more products.
- the blank can comprise a plurality of panels comprising at least a bottom panel. Further, the blank can comprise a divider panel configured for forming an integrated divider extending at least upwardly from the bottom panel when the container is formed from the blank.
- the disclosure is generally directed to a method of forming a container for holding one or more products.
- the method can comprise obtaining a blank comprising a plurality of panels and a divider panel.
- the plurality of panels can comprise at least a bottom panel.
- the method further can comprise positioning the panels of the plurality of panels to extend at least partially around an interior of the container and forming an integrated divider by positioning the divider panel to extend upwardly from the bottom panel in the interior of the container.
- the integrated divider can at least partially form a plurality of receiving spaces in the interior of the container.
- FIG. 1 is an exterior plan view of a blank used to form a construct or tray according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a construct formed from the blank of FIG. 1 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the formation of a tray from the construct of FIG. 2 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the tray formed from the blank of FIG. 1 and the construct of FIG. 2 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.
- FIG. 5 is an exterior plan view of a blank used to form a construct or tray according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the formation of a tray from the blank of FIG. 5 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the tray formed from the blank of FIG. 5 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.
- FIG. 8 is an exterior plan view of a blank used to form a construct or tray according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the formation of a tray from the blank of FIG. 8 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the tray formed from the blank of FIG. 8 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.
- the tray of the present disclosure can be useful in containing one or more products (e.g., a food product) or other articles such as any suitable type of product that can be stored, transported, cooled, frozen, heated, and/or cooked (e.g., in a microwave oven).
- Some suitable products could comprise cookies, crackers, chips, sandwiches, hot dogs, French fries, nachos, fruits, vegetables, popcorn, cuts of meat, or any other suitable food product or other article.
- the tray of the present disclosure can be used for heating, cooking, browning, crisping, etc. the food product by use of a heating or cooking device such as a microwave oven. It is understood that food products (or non-food products) other than the food products listed herein may be contained in the package.
- containers can be formed from blanks by being glued or otherwise secured with multiple panels, portions, tabs, and/or flaps, which may be designated herein in terms relative to one another, e.g., “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., in sequential or nonsequential reference, without departing from the disclosure.
- FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blank, generally indicated at 103 , used to form a container or tray 105 ( FIG. 4 ) of an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.
- the tray 105 can include integrated dividers or partitions 107 (e.g., one or more dividers or a plurality of dividers) extending in an interior 109 of the tray 105 .
- the blank 103 can have an interior surface 101 ( FIG. 2 ) and an exterior surface 102 ( FIG. 1 ).
- the construct 105 is used to hold and/or support a food product (not shown), such as cookies, crackers, French bread pizzas, sandwiches, hot dogs, turnovers, burritos, meats, French fries, and/or any other food product, such as during storing, displaying, selling, serving, cooking, etc. of the food product.
- a food product such as cookies, crackers, French bread pizzas, sandwiches, hot dogs, turnovers, burritos, meats, French fries, and/or any other food product, such as during storing, displaying, selling, serving, cooking, etc. of the food product.
- at least a portion of the construct 105 may have an element (not shown) for use in cooking, heating, browning, and/or shielding (e.g., a microwave energy interactive element, such as, but not limited to, a susceptor) mounted thereto.
- a microwave energy interactive element can be omitted from the construct 105 .
- the construct 105 can hold and/or support a non-food item
- the blank 103 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a lateral axis L2.
- the blank 103 includes a bottom panel 110 foldably connected to a first side panel 112 at a first longitudinal fold line 114 .
- a second side panel 116 is foldably connected to the central panel 110 along a second longitudinal fold line 118 .
- a back panel or first end panel 120 is foldably connected to the central panel 110 along a first lateral fold line 122 at one longitudinal end of the central panel 110
- a front panel or second end panel 124 is foldably connected to the central panel 110 along a second lateral fold line 126 at another longitudinal end of the central panel 110 .
- the blank 103 can include apertures 128 (e.g., four apertures or any suitable number of apertures) for receiving fingers or pins (not shown) of a packaging machine (not shown) to facilitate erection of the tray from the blank 103 as described in more detail below.
- apertures 128 e.g., four apertures or any suitable number of apertures
- the blank 103 includes end flaps 130 , 132 foldably connected at respective ends of the back panel 120 along respective fold lines 134 , 136 .
- End flaps 138 , 140 are respectively foldably connected at respective ends of the front panel 124 along the respective fold lines 142 , 144 .
- the bottom panel 110 , the side panels 112 , 116 , the back panel 120 , the front panel 124 , and the end flaps 130 , 132 , 138 , 140 can cooperate to form a tray portion 148 of the blank 103 .
- the tray portion 148 including any of the bottom panel 110 , the side panels 112 , 116 , the back and front panels 120 , 124 , and/or the end flaps 130 , 132 , 138 , 140 could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.
- the end flaps 130 , 138 , 132 , 140 could be foldably connected to the respective side panels 112 , 116 .
- the blank 103 further can include a divider piece or inner structure 150 foldably connected to the tray portion 148 of the blank 103 along a lateral fold line 152 .
- the divider structure 150 can be foldably connected to the back panel 120 along the lateral fold line 152 or could be foldably connected to any other suitable panel of the remainder of the blank 103 .
- the inner structure 150 can include a central panel 154 , a first divider panel 156 and a second divider panel 158 respectively foldably connected to the central panel 154 along respective fold lines 162 , 164 .
- the inner structure 150 further can include a first inner end panel 166 connected to the divider panels 156 , 158 by webbed corners or gusset panels 170 and a second inner end panel 172 connected to the divider panels 156 , 158 by webbed corners or gusset panels 174 . As shown in FIG.
- the gusset panels 170 can be foldably connected to the first inner end panel 166 along respective oblique fold lines 176 and can be foldably connected to the respective divider panels 156 , 158 along respective lateral fold lines 178
- the gusset panels 174 can be foldably connected to the second inner end panel 172 along respective oblique fold lines 180 and can be foldably connected to the respective divider panels 156 , 158 along respective lateral fold lines 182 .
- the first inner end panel 166 can be foldably connected to the first end panel 120 along the lateral fold line 152 .
- cutouts 184 can be included in the inner structure 150 (e.g., so that at least the central panel 154 and the respective inner end panels 166 , 172 extend along each cutout 184 ).
- the fold lines 152 , 162 , 164 , 176 , 178 , 180 , 182 can be cut lines interrupted by nicks.
- the fold lines 152 , 162 , 164 , 176 , 178 , 180 , 182 could be any suitable line of weakening.
- the divider structure 150 including any of the central panel 154 , the divider panels 156 , 158 , the inner end panels 166 , 172 , the gusset panels 170 , 174 , and/or the cutouts 184 could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.
- the blank 103 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.
- different portions of the inner structure 150 could be foldably connected to different panels of the tray portion 148 or the inner structure 150 could be provided as a separate blank from the remainder of the blank 103 .
- the blank 103 can be formed into a flattened construct 190 (e.g., a partially formed tray) by folding the inner structure 150 along the lateral fold line 152 over the tray portion 148 .
- the central panel 154 and the divider panels 156 , 158 can overlap the bottom panel 110
- the first inner end panel 166 and the gusset panels 170 can overlap the first outer end panel 120
- the second inner end panel 172 and the gusset panels 174 can overlap the second outer end panel 124 .
- glue G can be applied to the central panel 154 and the inner end panels 166 , 172 on the inner surface 101 of the blank 103 (the glue G being shown in hidden lines in the exterior view of the blank 103 of FIG. 1 ).
- the glue can be used to adhere the inner surface 101 of the central panel 154 to the inner surface 101 of the bottom panel 110 and the inner surfaces 101 of the inner end panels 166 , 172 to the inner surfaces 101 of the respective outer end panels 120 , 124 .
- glue can be applied to any of the panels 110 , 120 , 124 , 154 , 166 , and/or 172 for adhering the inner structure 150 to the remainder of the blank.
- the divider panels 156 , 158 and the gusset panels 170 , 174 are not glued to the bottom panel 110 or the outer end panels 120 , 124 so that the divider panels 156 , 158 and the gusset panels 170 , 174 remain free to pivot with respect to a remainder of the construct 190 .
- the divider panels 156 , 158 can be aligned with the apertures 128 in the bottom panel 110 (e.g., the divider panels 156 , 158 can overlap the portions of the bottom panel 110 that include the apertures 128 and the divider panels 156 , 158 can extend over the apertures 128 ).
- the construct 190 can be a pre-glued, non-erected construct that can be stored and/or delivered to forming equipment (not shown) in a flat configuration.
- the construct 190 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.
- the construct 190 can be folded to form the tray 105 with the dividers 107 extending in the interior 109 of the tray 105 .
- the side panels 112 , 116 and the outer end panels 120 , 124 can be folded upwardly with respect to the bottom panel 110 so that the side panels 112 , 116 and the outer end panels 120 , 124 extend at least upwardly (e.g., extend vertically or substantially vertically) from the bottom panel 110 .
- at least the bottom panel 110 , the side panels 112 , 116 , and the end panels 120 , 124 can extend at least partially around the interior 109 of the tray 105 ( FIG. 4 ).
- the end flaps 130 , 138 , 132 , 140 can be folded over the respective side panels 112 , 116 (e.g., in face-to-face contact with the interior or the exterior surfaces of the side panels) and can be glued or otherwise secured to the side panels 112 , 116 to at least partially secure the tray 105 in its erected form ( FIG. 4 ).
- the side panels 112 , 116 , the end panels 120 , 124 , and the end flaps 130 , 138 , 132 , 140 can at least partially define a sidewall 194 extending around a perimeter of the bottom panel 110 .
- the inner end panels 166 , 172 are folded upwardly relative to the central panel 154 causing the gussets 170 , 174 to fold inwardly toward the respective inner end panels 166 , 172 (e.g., so that the gussets 170 , 174 are proximate to and/or in face-to-face contact with the respective inner end panel 166 , 172 .
- FIGS. 1-10 show that the gussets 170 , 174 are proximate to and/or in face-to-face contact with the respective inner end panel 166 , 172 .
- the inward folding of the gussets 170 , 172 can cause the divider panels 156 , 158 to fold upwardly relative to the central panel 154 and away from the bottom panel 110 so that the divider panels 156 , 158 extend at least upwardly (e.g., extend vertically or substantially vertically) with respect to the bottom panel 110 and the central panel 154 to form the dividers 107 ( FIG. 4 ).
- the folding of the divider panels 156 , 158 and the gusset panels 170 , 174 can be initiated and/or directed by fingers or pins (e.g., of a packaging machine or forming equipment; not shown) that can at least partially extend through the apertures 128 to engage the divider panels 156 , 158 and push the divider panels 156 , 158 upwardly away from the bottom panel 110 .
- the divider panels 156 , 158 can be folded to extend vertically (e.g., perpendicular to the bottom panel 110 ).
- the dividers 107 can at least partially form three receiving spaces 192 in the interior 109 of the tray 105 .
- each of the receiving spaces 192 can receive one or more food products, one or more sleeves, bags, or other suitable containers of food products, and/or other suitable products and/or articles.
- a row or stack of cookies or crackers could be arranged in each of the receiving spaces 192 .
- the tray 105 can be enclosed and/or sealed (e.g., by a film, a bag, an outer carton, etc.).
- the dividers 107 and/or the receiving spaces 192 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.
- the tray could have any suitable number of dividers 107 , such as by increasing or decreasing the size of the blank 103 and/or increasing or decreasing the number of dividers 107 .
- the tray 105 could be otherwise formed without departing from the disclosure.
- FIG. 5 shows a blank 303 for forming a container or tray 305 ( FIG. 7 ) according to a second embodiment of the disclosure.
- the second embodiment is generally similar to the first embodiment, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments have been given like or similar reference numbers.
- the blank 303 includes a central bottom panel 310 and outer bottom panels 310 a , 310 b that cooperate to form a bottom wall 396 ( FIG. 7 ) in the tray 305 . As shown in FIG.
- the bottom panel 310 is foldably connected to a first divider panel 356 and to a second divider panel 358 along respective longitudinal fold lines 362 , 364 , and the divider panels 356 , 358 are foldably connected to the respective bottom panels 310 a , 310 b along respective longitudinal fold lines 363 , 365 .
- a first side panel 312 can be foldably connected to the outer bottom panel 310 a along a lateral fold line 314
- a second side panel 316 can be foldably connected to the outer bottom panel 310 b along a lateral fold line 318 .
- the divider panel 356 can include divider sections 356 a , 356 b that are foldably connected to one another along a lateral fold line 357 .
- the divider panel 358 can include divider sections 358 a , 358 b that are foldably connected to one another along a lateral fold line 359 .
- the central bottom panel 310 is foldably connected to central end panels 320 , 324 along respective lateral fold lines 322 , 326 .
- the bottom panels 310 a , 310 b can be foldably connected to the respective end panels 320 a , 324 a , 320 b , 324 b along the respective lateral fold lines 322 , 326 .
- the central end panel 320 can be connected to the outer end panels 320 a , 320 b by gussets or folding panels 370 (e.g., webbed panels), which can be foldably connected to the central end panel 320 along respective lateral fold lines 376 and can be foldably connected to the respective outer end panels 320 a , 320 b along respective lateral fold lines 378 .
- gussets or folding panels 370 e.g., webbed panels
- the central end panel 324 can be connected to the outer end panels 324 a , 324 b by gussets or folding panels 374 (e.g., webbed panels), which can be foldably connected to the central end panel 324 along respective lateral fold lines 380 and can be foldably connected to the respective outer end panels 324 a , 324 b along respective lateral fold lines 382 .
- a cutout 384 can extend at each end of each of the divider panels 356 , 358 , between the central bottom panel 310 and the respective outer bottom panels 310 a , 310 b . As shown in FIG.
- the cutouts 384 can extend along edges of the respective central end panels 320 , 324 and the respective folding panels 370 , 374 .
- the cutouts 384 can be strategically placed for allowing or helping to allow the divider panels 356 , 358 to be erected to form the integrated dividers 307 ( FIG. 7 ).
- the apertures 384 could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.
- the end flaps 330 , 332 , 338 , 340 can be foldably connected to the respective outer end panels 320 a , 320 b , 324 a , 324 b along respective lateral fold lines 134 , 136 , 142 , 144 . As shown in FIG.
- the end flaps 330 , 332 , 338 , 340 can include locking features 402 (e.g., a projection 402 a and a recess 402 b ) that can engage respective slots 404 extending in the side panels 312 , 316 (e.g., the projections 402 a can be inserted into the respective slots 404 so that the recesses 402 b engage the side panels 312 , 316 at the slots) when the tray 305 is formed ( FIG. 7 ).
- the locking features 402 can be in the form of Kliklok tabs or other suitable locking features. As shown in FIG.
- the blank 303 further can include locking flaps 406 foldably connected to the outer end panels 320 a , 324 a , 320 b , 324 b along respective lateral fold lines 408 and can include locking tabs 410 (e.g., Walker lock flaps or other suitable locking features) for engaging respective slots 412 interrupting the respective lateral fold lines 322 , 326 (e.g., so that the outer end panels 320 a , 324 a , 320 b , 324 b are at least partially separable from the respective outer bottom panels 310 a , 310 b along the cuts/slots 412 ) when the tray 305 is formed ( FIG. 7 ).
- locking tabs 410 e.g., Walker lock flaps or other suitable locking features
- the blank 303 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.
- the tray 305 can be formed from the blank 303 by folding the divider panels 356 , 358 upwardly along the respective fold lines 357 , 362 , 363 and 359 , 364 , 365 so that the divider sections 356 a , 356 b and 358 a , 358 b extend upwardly from the bottom panels 310 , 310 a , 310 b to the respective fold lines 357 , 359 .
- the outer bottom panels 310 a , 310 b are brought closer to the central bottom panel 310 and the folding panels 370 , 374 are folded over the respective outer end panels 320 a , 320 b , 324 a , 324 b .
- the bottom panels 310 , 310 a , 310 b can cooperate to form a bottom wall 420 of the tray 305 ( FIG. 7 ).
- the tray 305 further can be formed by folding the side panels 312 , 316 and the end panels 320 , 320 a , 320 b , 324 , 324 a , 324 b upwardly relative to the bottom wall 420 and engaging the locking features 402 of the end flaps 330 , 332 , 338 , 340 with the respective slots 404 in the side panels 312 , 316 .
- the end flaps 330 , 338 and 332 , 340 can be folded to at least partially overlap the respective side panels 312 , 316 and the protrusions 402 a can be inserted into the respective slots 404 so that the recesses 402 b engage the respective side panels 312 , 316 at the respective slots 404 .
- the locking flaps 406 can be folded downwardly along the respective lateral fold lines 408 to at least partially overlap the respective end panels 320 , 320 a , 320 b , 324 , 324 a , 324 b with the folding panels 370 , 374 positioned between the respective end panels.
- the locking flaps 406 can help retain the end panels 320 , 320 a , 320 b , 324 , 324 a , 324 b and the folding panels 370 , 374 in respective end walls 422 , 424 ( FIG. 7 ).
- the tray 305 can be assembled and/or retained in its erected configuration without glue.
- the tray 305 can be formed from the blank 303 manually and/or by forming equipment (not shown) and can be delivered to the forming equipment in a flat configuration (e.g., the blank 303 ).
- the forming equipment can include fingers or pins (not shown) that can engage the divider panels 356 , 358 and push the divider panels upwardly to at least partially form the dividers 307 ( FIG. 7 ).
- the bottom wall 420 , the side panels 312 , 316 , and the end walls 422 , 424 can at least partially extend around the interior 309 of the tray 305 .
- at least the side panels 312 , 316 and the end walls 422 , 424 can at least partially define a sidewall 394 extending around a perimeter of the bottom wall 420 .
- the dividers 307 can extend in the interior 309 of the tray and can at least partially form three receiving spaces 392 in the interior 309 of the tray 305 . After loading products or articles into the receiving spaces 392 , the tray 305 can be enclosed and/or sealed (e.g., by a film, a bag, an outer carton, etc.).
- the dividers 307 and/or the receiving spaces 392 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.
- the tray 305 could have any suitable number of dividers 307 , such as by increasing or decreasing the size of the blank 303 and/or increasing or decreasing the number of dividers 307 .
- the tray 305 could be otherwise formed without departing from the disclosure.
- glue can be used to further secure features of the tray 305 .
- FIG. 8 shows a blank 503 for forming a container or tray 505 ( FIG. 10 ) according to a third embodiment of the disclosure.
- the third embodiment is generally similar to the prior embodiments, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments have been given like or similar reference numbers.
- the blank 503 is similar to the blank 303 of the second embodiment, except that the end flaps 330 , 338 , 332 , 340 are replaced by end flaps 530 , 538 , 532 , 540 , which are foldably connected to respective ends of the respective side panels 512 , 516 along lateral fold lines 534 , 542 , 536 , 544 .
- the locking features 402 and slots 404 of the blank 303 are not included in the blank 503 .
- the end flaps 530 , 532 , 538 , 540 are folded to extend between the respective outer end panels 320 a , 320 b , 324 a , 324 b and the respective locking flaps 406 . Accordingly, when the end walls 622 , 624 of the tray 505 are formed and the tabs 410 of the locking flaps 406 are engaged with the respective cuts 412 , the end flaps 530 , 532 , 538 , 540 can be at least partially retained by the locking flaps 406 to help hold the tray 505 in its erected configuration ( FIG. 10 ).
- the tray 505 can be assembled without glue.
- at least the side panels 512 , 516 and the end walls 622 , 624 can at least partially define a sidewall 594 extending around a perimeter of the bottom wall 420 .
- the tray 505 could be otherwise formed without departing from the disclosure.
- glue can be used to further secure features of the tray 505 .
- the trays of the present disclosure can provide advantages over containers, such as molded plastic containers while still providing the containment and/or separation of product placed in the trays.
- the trays of the present application can be made from renewable materials (e.g., paperboard and/or other suitable materials) rather than molded plastic.
- the blank may be constructed from paperboard having a caliper so that it is heavier and more rigid than ordinary paper.
- the blank can also be constructed of other materials, such as cardboard, or any other material having properties suitable for enabling the carton to function at least generally as described above.
- the blank can be coated with, for example, a clay coating.
- the clay coating may then be printed over with product, advertising, and other information or images.
- the blank may then be coated with a varnish to protect information printed on the blanks.
- the blank may also be coated with, for example, a moisture barrier layer, on either or both sides of the blanks.
- the blank can also be laminated to or coated with one or more sheet-like materials at selected panels or panel sections.
- a fold line can be any substantially linear, although not necessarily straight, form of weakening that facilitates folding therealong. More specifically, but not for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the present disclosure, fold lines include: a score line, such as lines formed with a blunt scoring knife, or the like, which creates a crushed or depressed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness; a cut that extends partially into a material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of cuts that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness; and various combinations of these features. In situations where cutting is used to create a fold line, typically the cutting will not be overly extensive in a manner that might cause a reasonable user to incorrectly consider the fold line to be a tear line.
- the above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels adhered together by glue during erection of the carton embodiments.
- glue is intended to encompass all manner of adhesives commonly used to secure carton panels in place.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Cartons (AREA)
Abstract
A container for holding one or more products. The container can comprise a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the container. The plurality of panels can comprise at least a bottom panel. The container further can comprise one or more integrated dividers extending at least upwardly from the bottom panel to at least partially form a plurality of receiving spaces in the interior of the container.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/411,888, filed on Sep. 30, 2022.
- The disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/411,888, which was filed on Sep. 30, 2022, is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if presented herein in its entirety.
- The present disclosure generally relates to cartons, containers, trays, and/or other constructs for holding food products and/or other types of articles and/or products. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to containers/trays with dividing features.
- In general, one aspect of the disclosure is generally directed to a container for holding one or more products. The container can comprise a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the container. The plurality of panels can comprise at least a bottom panel. The container further can comprise one or more integrated dividers extending at least upwardly from the bottom panel to at least partially form a plurality of receiving spaces in the interior of the container.
- In another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a blank for forming a container for holding one or more products. The blank can comprise a plurality of panels comprising at least a bottom panel. Further, the blank can comprise a divider panel configured for forming an integrated divider extending at least upwardly from the bottom panel when the container is formed from the blank.
- In another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a method of forming a container for holding one or more products. The method can comprise obtaining a blank comprising a plurality of panels and a divider panel. The plurality of panels can comprise at least a bottom panel. The method further can comprise positioning the panels of the plurality of panels to extend at least partially around an interior of the container and forming an integrated divider by positioning the divider panel to extend upwardly from the bottom panel in the interior of the container. The integrated divider can at least partially form a plurality of receiving spaces in the interior of the container.
- Those skilled in the art will appreciate the above stated advantages and other advantages and benefits of various additional embodiments reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the below-listed drawing figures.
- According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the disclosure.
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FIG. 1 is an exterior plan view of a blank used to form a construct or tray according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a construct formed from the blank ofFIG. 1 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the formation of a tray from the construct ofFIG. 2 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the tray formed from the blank ofFIG. 1 and the construct ofFIG. 2 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. -
FIG. 5 is an exterior plan view of a blank used to form a construct or tray according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the formation of a tray from the blank ofFIG. 5 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the tray formed from the blank ofFIG. 5 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. -
FIG. 8 is an exterior plan view of a blank used to form a construct or tray according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the formation of a tray from the blank ofFIG. 8 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the tray formed from the blank ofFIG. 8 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. - Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numbers throughout the drawings.
- The tray of the present disclosure can be useful in containing one or more products (e.g., a food product) or other articles such as any suitable type of product that can be stored, transported, cooled, frozen, heated, and/or cooked (e.g., in a microwave oven). Some suitable products could comprise cookies, crackers, chips, sandwiches, hot dogs, French fries, nachos, fruits, vegetables, popcorn, cuts of meat, or any other suitable food product or other article. In some embodiments, the tray of the present disclosure can be used for heating, cooking, browning, crisping, etc. the food product by use of a heating or cooking device such as a microwave oven. It is understood that food products (or non-food products) other than the food products listed herein may be contained in the package. Further, products contained in this package may be generally rectangular, triangular, round, square, irregular, or any other shape. In this specification, the terms “inner,” “interior,” “outer,” “exterior,” “lower,” “bottom,” “upper,” “top,” “front,” “forward,” “back,” “rear,” and “rearward” indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected and upright packages. As described herein, containers can be formed from blanks by being glued or otherwise secured with multiple panels, portions, tabs, and/or flaps, which may be designated herein in terms relative to one another, e.g., “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., in sequential or nonsequential reference, without departing from the disclosure.
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FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blank, generally indicated at 103, used to form a container or tray 105 (FIG. 4 ) of an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. Thetray 105 can include integrated dividers or partitions 107 (e.g., one or more dividers or a plurality of dividers) extending in aninterior 109 of thetray 105. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 103 can have an interior surface 101 (FIG. 2 ) and an exterior surface 102 (FIG. 1 ). Theconstruct 105 is used to hold and/or support a food product (not shown), such as cookies, crackers, French bread pizzas, sandwiches, hot dogs, turnovers, burritos, meats, French fries, and/or any other food product, such as during storing, displaying, selling, serving, cooking, etc. of the food product. In some embodiments, at least a portion of theconstruct 105 may have an element (not shown) for use in cooking, heating, browning, and/or shielding (e.g., a microwave energy interactive element, such as, but not limited to, a susceptor) mounted thereto. In some embodiments, a microwave energy interactive element can be omitted from theconstruct 105. In an alternative embodiment, theconstruct 105 can hold and/or support a non-food item or article. - The blank 103 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a lateral axis L2. The blank 103 includes a
bottom panel 110 foldably connected to afirst side panel 112 at a firstlongitudinal fold line 114. Asecond side panel 116 is foldably connected to thecentral panel 110 along a secondlongitudinal fold line 118. A back panel orfirst end panel 120 is foldably connected to thecentral panel 110 along a firstlateral fold line 122 at one longitudinal end of thecentral panel 110, and a front panel orsecond end panel 124 is foldably connected to thecentral panel 110 along a secondlateral fold line 126 at another longitudinal end of thecentral panel 110. Either or both of theend panels second side panels FIG. 1 , the blank 103 can include apertures 128 (e.g., four apertures or any suitable number of apertures) for receiving fingers or pins (not shown) of a packaging machine (not shown) to facilitate erection of the tray from the blank 103 as described in more detail below. - In the illustrated embodiments, the blank 103 includes
end flaps back panel 120 alongrespective fold lines End flaps front panel 124 along therespective fold lines bottom panel 110, theside panels back panel 120, thefront panel 124, and theend flaps tray portion 148 of the blank 103. Thetray portion 148, including any of thebottom panel 110, theside panels front panels end flaps end flaps respective side panels - As shown in
FIG. 1 , the blank 103 further can include a divider piece orinner structure 150 foldably connected to thetray portion 148 of the blank 103 along alateral fold line 152. In embodiments, thedivider structure 150 can be foldably connected to theback panel 120 along thelateral fold line 152 or could be foldably connected to any other suitable panel of the remainder of the blank 103. In the illustrated embodiments, theinner structure 150 can include acentral panel 154, afirst divider panel 156 and asecond divider panel 158 respectively foldably connected to thecentral panel 154 alongrespective fold lines inner structure 150 further can include a firstinner end panel 166 connected to thedivider panels gusset panels 170 and a secondinner end panel 172 connected to thedivider panels gusset panels 174. As shown inFIG. 1 , thegusset panels 170 can be foldably connected to the firstinner end panel 166 along respectiveoblique fold lines 176 and can be foldably connected to therespective divider panels lateral fold lines 178, and thegusset panels 174 can be foldably connected to the secondinner end panel 172 along respectiveoblique fold lines 180 and can be foldably connected to therespective divider panels inner end panel 166 can be foldably connected to thefirst end panel 120 along thelateral fold line 152. In embodiments,cutouts 184 can be included in the inner structure 150 (e.g., so that at least thecentral panel 154 and the respectiveinner end panels fold lines fold lines divider structure 150, including any of thecentral panel 154, thedivider panels inner end panels gusset panels cutouts 184 could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure. - The blank 103 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure. For example, different portions of the
inner structure 150 could be foldably connected to different panels of thetray portion 148 or theinner structure 150 could be provided as a separate blank from the remainder of the blank 103. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , the blank 103 can be formed into a flattened construct 190 (e.g., a partially formed tray) by folding theinner structure 150 along thelateral fold line 152 over thetray portion 148. In embodiments, thecentral panel 154 and thedivider panels bottom panel 110, the firstinner end panel 166 and thegusset panels 170 can overlap the firstouter end panel 120, and the secondinner end panel 172 and thegusset panels 174 can overlap the secondouter end panel 124. As schematically shown inFIG. 1 , glue G can be applied to thecentral panel 154 and theinner end panels inner surface 101 of the blank 103 (the glue G being shown in hidden lines in the exterior view of the blank 103 ofFIG. 1 ). In embodiments, the glue can be used to adhere theinner surface 101 of thecentral panel 154 to theinner surface 101 of thebottom panel 110 and theinner surfaces 101 of theinner end panels inner surfaces 101 of the respectiveouter end panels panels inner structure 150 to the remainder of the blank. In the illustrated embodiment, thedivider panels gusset panels bottom panel 110 or theouter end panels divider panels gusset panels construct 190. In embodiments, thedivider panels apertures 128 in the bottom panel 110 (e.g., thedivider panels bottom panel 110 that include theapertures 128 and thedivider panels construct 190 can be a pre-glued, non-erected construct that can be stored and/or delivered to forming equipment (not shown) in a flat configuration. Theconstruct 190 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure. - As shown in
FIGS. 3 and 4 , theconstruct 190 can be folded to form thetray 105 with thedividers 107 extending in theinterior 109 of thetray 105. For example, theside panels outer end panels bottom panel 110 so that theside panels outer end panels bottom panel 110. In the illustrated embodiments, at least thebottom panel 110, theside panels end panels interior 109 of the tray 105 (FIG. 4 ). In embodiments, as theouter end panels respective side panels 112, 116 (e.g., in face-to-face contact with the interior or the exterior surfaces of the side panels) and can be glued or otherwise secured to theside panels tray 105 in its erected form (FIG. 4 ). In exemplary embodiments, theside panels end panels sidewall 194 extending around a perimeter of thebottom panel 110. - In the illustrated embodiment, as the
outer end panels inner end panels central panel 154 causing thegussets inner end panels 166, 172 (e.g., so that thegussets inner end panel FIGS. 3 and 4 , the inward folding of thegussets divider panels central panel 154 and away from thebottom panel 110 so that thedivider panels bottom panel 110 and thecentral panel 154 to form the dividers 107 (FIG. 4 ). - In exemplary embodiments, the folding of the
divider panels gusset panels apertures 128 to engage thedivider panels divider panels bottom panel 110. In exemplary embodiments, thedivider panels - As shown in
FIG. 4 , thedividers 107 can at least partially form three receivingspaces 192 in theinterior 109 of thetray 105. In embodiments, each of the receivingspaces 192 can receive one or more food products, one or more sleeves, bags, or other suitable containers of food products, and/or other suitable products and/or articles. For example, a row or stack of cookies or crackers could be arranged in each of the receivingspaces 192. After loading products or articles into the receivingspaces 192, thetray 105 can be enclosed and/or sealed (e.g., by a film, a bag, an outer carton, etc.). Thedividers 107 and/or the receivingspaces 192 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure. For example, the tray could have any suitable number ofdividers 107, such as by increasing or decreasing the size of the blank 103 and/or increasing or decreasing the number ofdividers 107. Further, thetray 105 could be otherwise formed without departing from the disclosure. -
FIG. 5 shows a blank 303 for forming a container or tray 305 (FIG. 7 ) according to a second embodiment of the disclosure. The second embodiment is generally similar to the first embodiment, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments have been given like or similar reference numbers. In the second embodiment, the blank 303 includes acentral bottom panel 310 and outerbottom panels FIG. 7 ) in thetray 305. As shown inFIG. 5 , thebottom panel 310 is foldably connected to afirst divider panel 356 and to asecond divider panel 358 along respectivelongitudinal fold lines divider panels bottom panels longitudinal fold lines first side panel 312 can be foldably connected to the outerbottom panel 310 a along alateral fold line 314, and asecond side panel 316 can be foldably connected to the outerbottom panel 310 b along alateral fold line 318. - As shown in
FIG. 5 , thedivider panel 356 can includedivider sections lateral fold line 357. Similarly, thedivider panel 358 can includedivider sections lateral fold line 359. In the illustrated embodiment, thecentral bottom panel 310 is foldably connected tocentral end panels lateral fold lines bottom panels respective end panels lateral fold lines - As shown in
FIG. 5 , thecentral end panel 320 can be connected to theouter end panels central end panel 320 along respectivelateral fold lines 376 and can be foldably connected to the respectiveouter end panels central end panel 324 can be connected to theouter end panels central end panel 324 along respectivelateral fold lines 380 and can be foldably connected to the respectiveouter end panels cutout 384 can extend at each end of each of thedivider panels central bottom panel 310 and the respective outerbottom panels FIG. 5 , thecutouts 384 can extend along edges of the respectivecentral end panels respective folding panels cutouts 384 can be strategically placed for allowing or helping to allow thedivider panels FIG. 7 ). Theapertures 384 could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure. - In the illustrated embodiment, the end flaps 330, 332, 338, 340 can be foldably connected to the respective
outer end panels lateral fold lines FIG. 5 , the end flaps 330, 332, 338, 340 can include locking features 402 (e.g., aprojection 402 a and arecess 402 b) that can engagerespective slots 404 extending in theside panels 312, 316 (e.g., theprojections 402 a can be inserted into therespective slots 404 so that therecesses 402 b engage theside panels tray 305 is formed (FIG. 7 ). For example, the locking features 402 can be in the form of Kliklok tabs or other suitable locking features. As shown inFIG. 5 , the blank 303 further can include lockingflaps 406 foldably connected to theouter end panels lateral fold lines 408 and can include locking tabs 410 (e.g., Walker lock flaps or other suitable locking features) for engagingrespective slots 412 interrupting the respectivelateral fold lines 322, 326 (e.g., so that theouter end panels bottom panels tray 305 is formed (FIG. 7 ). - The blank 303 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.
- As shown in
FIGS. 6 and 7 , thetray 305 can be formed from the blank 303 by folding thedivider panels respective fold lines divider sections bottom panels respective fold lines divider panels bottom panels central bottom panel 310 and thefolding panels outer end panels bottom panels bottom wall 420 of the tray 305 (FIG. 7 ). - In the illustrated embodiments, the
tray 305 further can be formed by folding theside panels end panels bottom wall 420 and engaging the locking features 402 of the end flaps 330, 332, 338, 340 with therespective slots 404 in theside panels respective side panels protrusions 402 a can be inserted into therespective slots 404 so that therecesses 402 b engage therespective side panels respective slots 404. The locking flaps 406 can be folded downwardly along the respectivelateral fold lines 408 to at least partially overlap therespective end panels folding panels tabs 410 are engaged with therespective cuts 412, the locking flaps 406 can help retain theend panels folding panels respective end walls 422, 424 (FIG. 7 ). Accordingly, in embodiments, thetray 305 can be assembled and/or retained in its erected configuration without glue. In exemplary embodiments, thetray 305 can be formed from the blank 303 manually and/or by forming equipment (not shown) and can be delivered to the forming equipment in a flat configuration (e.g., the blank 303). In embodiments, the forming equipment can include fingers or pins (not shown) that can engage thedivider panels FIG. 7 ). - As shown in
FIG. 7 , thebottom wall 420, theside panels end walls interior 309 of thetray 305. In exemplary embodiments, at least theside panels end walls sidewall 394 extending around a perimeter of thebottom wall 420. In the illustrated embodiments, thedividers 307 can extend in theinterior 309 of the tray and can at least partially form three receivingspaces 392 in theinterior 309 of thetray 305. After loading products or articles into the receivingspaces 392, thetray 305 can be enclosed and/or sealed (e.g., by a film, a bag, an outer carton, etc.). - The
dividers 307 and/or the receivingspaces 392 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure. For example, thetray 305 could have any suitable number ofdividers 307, such as by increasing or decreasing the size of the blank 303 and/or increasing or decreasing the number ofdividers 307. Further, thetray 305 could be otherwise formed without departing from the disclosure. For example, glue can be used to further secure features of thetray 305. -
FIG. 8 shows a blank 503 for forming a container or tray 505 (FIG. 10 ) according to a third embodiment of the disclosure. The third embodiment is generally similar to the prior embodiments, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments have been given like or similar reference numbers. In the third embodiment, the blank 503 is similar to the blank 303 of the second embodiment, except that the end flaps 330, 338, 332, 340 are replaced byend flaps respective side panels lateral fold lines slots 404 of the blank 303 are not included in the blank 503. - As shown in
FIGS. 9 and 10 , when thetray 505 is formed from the blank 503, the end flaps 530, 532, 538, 540 are folded to extend between the respectiveouter end panels end walls tray 505 are formed and thetabs 410 of the locking flaps 406 are engaged with therespective cuts 412, the end flaps 530, 532, 538, 540 can be at least partially retained by the locking flaps 406 to help hold thetray 505 in its erected configuration (FIG. 10 ). Accordingly, in embodiments, thetray 505 can be assembled without glue. In exemplary embodiments, at least theside panels end walls sidewall 594 extending around a perimeter of thebottom wall 420. Thetray 505 could be otherwise formed without departing from the disclosure. For example, glue can be used to further secure features of thetray 505. - The trays of the present disclosure can provide advantages over containers, such as molded plastic containers while still providing the containment and/or separation of product placed in the trays. For example, the trays of the present application can be made from renewable materials (e.g., paperboard and/or other suitable materials) rather than molded plastic.
- Any of the features of the various embodiments of the disclosure can be combined with, replaced by, or otherwise configured with other features of other embodiments of the disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In addition, the panels, flaps, and other features shown and described in conjunction with the
blanks trays - In general, the blank may be constructed from paperboard having a caliper so that it is heavier and more rigid than ordinary paper. The blank can also be constructed of other materials, such as cardboard, or any other material having properties suitable for enabling the carton to function at least generally as described above. The blank can be coated with, for example, a clay coating. The clay coating may then be printed over with product, advertising, and other information or images. The blank may then be coated with a varnish to protect information printed on the blanks. The blank may also be coated with, for example, a moisture barrier layer, on either or both sides of the blanks. The blank can also be laminated to or coated with one or more sheet-like materials at selected panels or panel sections.
- In accordance with the exemplary embodiments, a fold line can be any substantially linear, although not necessarily straight, form of weakening that facilitates folding therealong. More specifically, but not for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the present disclosure, fold lines include: a score line, such as lines formed with a blunt scoring knife, or the like, which creates a crushed or depressed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness; a cut that extends partially into a material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of cuts that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness; and various combinations of these features. In situations where cutting is used to create a fold line, typically the cutting will not be overly extensive in a manner that might cause a reasonable user to incorrectly consider the fold line to be a tear line.
- The above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels adhered together by glue during erection of the carton embodiments. The term “glue” is intended to encompass all manner of adhesives commonly used to secure carton panels in place.
- The foregoing description of the disclosure illustrates and describes various exemplary embodiments. Various additions, modifications, changes, etc., could be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Additionally, the disclosure shows and describes only selected embodiments of the disclosure, but the disclosure is capable of use in various other combinations, modifications, and environments and is capable of changes or modifications within the scope of the inventive concept as expressed herein, commensurate with the above teachings, and/or within the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. Furthermore, certain features and characteristics of each embodiment may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiments of the disclosure.
Claims (47)
1. A container for holding one or more products, the container comprising:
a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the container, the plurality of panels comprising at least a bottom panel; and
one or more integrated dividers extending at least upwardly from the bottom panel to at least partially form a plurality of receiving spaces in the interior of the container.
2. The container of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a first end panel foldably connected to the bottom panel and a second end panel foldably connected to the bottom panel opposite to the first end panel, and wherein the one or more integrated dividers extends from the first end panel to the second end panel.
3. The container of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of panels comprises a side panel extending at least partially parallel to the one or more integrated dividers, and wherein the one or more integrated dividers is spaced apart from the side panel.
4. The container of claim 2 , further comprising an interior structure comprising at least a first inner end panel in an overlapping relationship with the first end panel, a second inner end panel in an overlapping relationship with the second end panel, and a divider panel, and wherein the one or more integrated dividers comprises at least the divider panel.
5. The container of claim 4 , wherein the divider panel is connected to the first inner end panel and the second inner end panel by respective gusset panels.
6. The container of claim 5 , wherein the interior structure comprises a central panel in an overlapping relationship with the bottom panel, and wherein the divider panel is foldably connected to the central panel along a fold line.
7. The container of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises an outer bottom panel, and wherein the one or more integrated dividers comprises at least a divider panel foldably connected to each of the bottom panel and the outer bottom panel along respective fold lines.
8. The container of claim 7 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a first outer end panel and a second outer end panel each foldably connected to the outer bottom panel, the first outer end panel and the second outer end panel being connected to the respective first end panel and second end panel by a respective first folding panel and second folding panel.
9. The container of claim 1 , further comprising an interior structure comprising a central panel and a divider panel foldably connected to the central panel, the central panel being in an overlapping relationship with the bottom panel, and the one or more integrated dividers comprising the divider panel.
10. The container of claim 9 , wherein the divider panel is a first divider panel, the interior structure further comprises a second divider panel foldably connected to the central panel opposite to the first divider panel.
11. The container of claim 10 , wherein the interior structure further comprises a first inner end panel connected to each of the first divider panel and the second divider panel by respective first folding panels and a second inner end panel connected to each of the first divider panel and the second divider panel by respective second folding panels opposite to the first inner end panel.
12. The container of claim 11 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a first end panel and a second end panel each foldably connected to the bottom panel, and wherein the first inner end panel and the second inner end panel are in overlapping relationship with the respective first end panel and second end panel.
13. The container of claim 9 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises an end panel foldably connected to the bottom panel, and wherein the interior structure comprises an inner end panel in at least partially overlapping relationship with the end panel, the inner end panel being foldably connected to the end panel along a fold line.
14. The container of claim 13 , wherein the inner end panel is connected to the divider panel by a folding panel.
15. The container of claim 1 , wherein the bottom panel is a central bottom panel, the plurality of panels further comprises an outer bottom panel, and the one or more integrated dividers comprises a divider panel foldably connected to the central bottom panel and the outer bottom panel.
16. The container of claim 15 , wherein the divider panel comprises a first divider section foldably connected to the outer bottom panel along a first fold line and a second divider section foldably connected to the central bottom panel along a second fold line, and wherein the first divider section and the second divider section are foldably connected to one another along a third fold line.
17. The container of claim 15 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a central end panel foldably connected to the bottom panel and an outer end panel foldably connected to the outer bottom panel, the central end panel and the outer end panel are connected to one another by a folding panel.
18. The container of claim 17 , wherein each of the outer end panel and the central end panel is in an at least partially overlapping relationship with the folding panel.
19. The container of claim 18 , wherein a locking flap is foldably connected to the outer end panel and is folded over the outer end panel to at least partially overlap a portion of the central end panel.
20. The container of claim 1 , wherein the bottom panel is a central bottom panel, the plurality of panels further comprises a first outer bottom panel and a second outer bottom panel, and the one or more integrated dividers comprises a first divider panel foldably connected to the central bottom panel and the first outer bottom panel and a second divider panel foldably connected to the central bottom panel and the second outer bottom panel.
21. The container of claim 20 , wherein the plurality of panels comprises a central end panel foldably connected to the central bottom panel, a first outer end panel foldably connected to the first outer bottom panel, and a second outer end panel foldably connected to the second outer bottom panel, the first outer end panel and the second outer end panel being connected to the central end panel by respective folding panels.
22. A blank for forming a container for holding one or more products, the container comprising:
a plurality of panels comprising at least a bottom panel; and
a divider panel configured for forming an integrated divider extending at least upwardly from the bottom panel when the container is formed from the blank.
23. The blank of claim 22 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a first end panel foldably connected to the bottom panel and a second end panel foldably connected to the bottom panel opposite to the first end panel, and wherein the integrated divider formed from the divider panel is for extending from the first end panel to the second end panel when the container is formed from the blank.
24. The blank of claim 23 , wherein the plurality of panels comprises a side panel extending at least partially parallel to the divider panel, and wherein the divider panel is spaced apart from the side panel.
25. The blank of claim 23 , further comprising an interior structure comprising at least a first inner end panel, a second inner end panel, and the divider panel extending at least partially from the first inner end panel to the second inner end panel, and wherein the first inner end panel and the second inner end panel are for being in an overlapping relationship with the respective first end panel and second end panel when the container is formed from the blank.
26. The blank of claim 25 , wherein the divider panel is connected to the first inner end panel and the second inner end panel by respective gusset panels.
27. The blank of claim 26 , wherein the interior structure comprises a central panel for being positioned in an overlapping relationship with the bottom panel when the container is formed from the blank, and wherein the divider panel is foldably connected to the central panel along a fold line.
28. The blank of claim 23 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises an outer bottom panel, and wherein the divider panel is foldably connected to each of the bottom panel and the outer bottom panel along respective fold lines.
29. The blank of claim 28 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a first outer end panel and a second outer end panel each foldably connected to the outer bottom panel, the first outer end panel and the second outer end panel being connected to the respective first end panel and second end panel by a respective first folding panel and second folding panel.
30. The blank of claim 22 , further comprising an interior structure comprising a central panel and the divider panel, wherein the divider panel is foldably connected to the central panel, and the central panel is for being positioned in an overlapping relationship with the bottom panel when the container is formed from the blank.
31. The blank of claim 30 , wherein the divider panel is a first divider panel, the interior structure further comprises a second divider panel foldably connected to the central panel opposite to the first divider panel.
32. The blank of claim 31 , wherein the interior structure further comprises a first inner end panel connected to each of the first divider panel and the second divider panel by respective first folding panels and a second inner end panel connected to each of the first divider panel and the second divider panel by respective second folding panels opposite to the first inner end panel.
33. The blank of claim 30 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises an end panel foldably connected to the bottom panel, and wherein the interior structure comprises an inner end panel foldably connected to the end panel along a fold line, the inner end panel for being positioned in at least partially overlapping relationship with the end panel when the container is formed from the blank.
34. The blank of claim 33 , wherein the inner end panel is connected to the divider panel by a folding panel.
35. The blank of claim 22 , wherein the bottom panel is a central bottom panel, the plurality of panels further comprises an outer bottom panel, and the divider panel is foldably connected to the central bottom panel and the outer bottom panel.
36. The blank of claim 35 , wherein the divider panel comprises a first divider section foldably connected to the outer bottom panel along a first fold line and a second divider section foldably connected to the central bottom panel along a second fold line, and wherein the first divider section and the second divider section are foldably connected to one another along a third fold line.
37. The blank of claim 35 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a central end panel foldably connected to the bottom panel and an outer end panel foldably connected to the outer bottom panel, the central end panel and the outer end panel are connected to one another by a folding panel.
38. The blank of claim 37 , wherein a locking flap is foldably connected to the outer end panel and is for being folded over the outer end panel to at least partially overlap a portion of the central end panel when the container is formed from the blank.
39. The blank of claim 22 , wherein the bottom panel is a central bottom panel and the divider panel is a first divider panel, and wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a first outer bottom panel and a second outer bottom panel and the blank further comprises a second divider panel, the first divider panel being foldably connected to the central bottom panel and the first outer bottom panel and the second divider panel being foldably connected to the central bottom panel and the second outer bottom panel.
40. The blank of claim 39 , wherein the plurality of panels comprises a central end panel foldably connected to the central bottom panel, a first outer end panel foldably connected to the first outer bottom panel, and a second outer end panel foldably connected to the second outer bottom panel, the first outer end panel and the second outer end panel being connected to the central end panel by respective folding panels.
41. A method of forming a container for holding one or more products, the method comprising:
obtaining a blank comprising a plurality of panels and a divider panel, the plurality of panels comprising at least a bottom panel;
positioning the panels of the plurality of panels to extend at least partially around an interior of the container; and
forming an integrated divider by positioning the divider panel to extend upwardly from the bottom panel in the interior of the container, the integrated divider at least partially forming a plurality of receiving spaces in the interior of the container.
42. The method of claim 41 , wherein the blank further comprises an interior structure comprising a central panel and the divider panel, wherein the divider panel is foldably connected to the central panel, and wherein the method further comprises positioning the inner structure so that the central panel is in an overlapping relationship with the bottom panel, and the forming the integrated divider comprises folding the divider panel upwardly relative to the central panel.
43. The method of claim 42 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises an end panel foldably connected to the bottom panel, wherein the interior structure comprises an inner end panel foldably connected to the end panel along a fold line, and wherein the positioning the interior structure comprises folding the interior structure relative to the end panel along the fold line and positioning the inner end panel in an at least partially overlapping relationship with the end panel.
44. The method of claim 42 , wherein the folding the divider panel upwardly comprises engaging the divider panel with one or more pins via one or more apertures extending in the bottom panel to push the divider panel upwardly.
45. The method of claim 41 , wherein the bottom panel is a central bottom panel, the plurality of panels further comprises an outer bottom panel, and the divider panel is foldably connected to the central bottom panel and the outer bottom panel.
46. The method of claim 45 , wherein the divider panel comprises a first divider section foldably connected to the outer bottom panel along a first fold line and a second divider section foldably connected to the central bottom panel along a second fold line, wherein the first divider section and the second divider section are foldably connected to one another along a third fold line, and wherein the positioning the divider panel comprises moving the central bottom panel and the outer bottom panel closer together while moving the third fold line upwardly so that the first divider section and the second divider section extend at least upwardly from the respective central bottom panel and outer bottom panel to the third fold line.
47. The method of claim 45 , wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a central end panel foldably connected to the bottom panel and an outer end panel foldably connected to the outer bottom panel, the central end panel and the outer end panel are connected to one another by a folding panel, and wherein the positioning the panels of the plurality of panels comprises folding the central end panel, the folding panel, and the outer end panel to be in an at least partially overlapping relationship.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US18/372,207 US20240109683A1 (en) | 2022-09-30 | 2023-09-25 | Container With Dividers |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US202263411888P | 2022-09-30 | 2022-09-30 | |
US18/372,207 US20240109683A1 (en) | 2022-09-30 | 2023-09-25 | Container With Dividers |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20240109683A1 true US20240109683A1 (en) | 2024-04-04 |
Family
ID=90471434
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US18/372,207 Pending US20240109683A1 (en) | 2022-09-30 | 2023-09-25 | Container With Dividers |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20240109683A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2024072720A1 (en) |
Family Cites Families (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2011207482A (en) * | 2010-03-29 | 2011-10-20 | Kawabata Danbooru Kk | Assembly partition made of paper |
SI3095722T1 (en) * | 2015-05-19 | 2019-07-31 | Andek Beheer Bv | Packaging for foodstuffs, more in particular for snacks, and method for the manufacture thereof |
JP7258588B2 (en) * | 2019-02-15 | 2023-04-17 | 朝日印刷株式会社 | trays and boxes |
CA3169493A1 (en) * | 2020-02-25 | 2021-09-02 | Caleb S. Loftin | Package, article carrier and blank therfor |
CA3111820A1 (en) * | 2020-03-13 | 2021-09-13 | Westrock Shared Services, Llc | Partition insert and associated container system and method |
-
2023
- 2023-09-25 US US18/372,207 patent/US20240109683A1/en active Pending
- 2023-09-25 WO PCT/US2023/033574 patent/WO2024072720A1/en unknown
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Publication number | Publication date |
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WO2024072720A1 (en) | 2024-04-04 |
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