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
  • B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D25/02—Internal fittings
  • B65D25/10—Devices to locate articles in 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
  • B65D1/00—Containers having bodies formed in one piece, e.g. by casting metallic material, by moulding plastics, by blowing vitreous material, by throwing ceramic material, by moulding pulped fibrous material, by deep-drawing operations performed on sheet material
  • B65D1/22—Boxes or like containers with side walls of substantial depth for enclosing contents
  • B65D1/26—Thin-walled containers, e.g. formed by deep-drawing operations
  • B65D1/30—Groups of containers joined together end-to-end or side-by-side
• • 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
  • B65D21/00—Nestable, stackable or joinable containers; Containers of variable capacity
  • B65D21/02—Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together
  • B65D21/0209—Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together stackable or joined together one-upon-the-other in the upright or upside-down position
  • B65D21/0217—Containers with a closure presenting stacking elements
  • B65D21/0219—Containers with a closure presenting stacking elements the closure presenting projecting peripheral elements receiving or surrounding the bottom or peripheral elements projecting from the bottom of a superimposed container
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D25/02—Internal fittings
  • B65D25/04—Partitions
• • 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
  • B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D25/02—Internal fittings
  • B65D25/10—Devices to locate articles in containers
  • B65D25/108—Devices, e.g. plates, presenting apertures through which the articles project
• • 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
  • B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D25/20—External fittings
  • B65D25/22—External fittings for facilitating lifting or suspending of 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
  • B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D25/20—External fittings
  • B65D25/24—External fittings for spacing bases of containers from supporting surfaces, e.g. legs
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D43/14—Non-removable lids or covers
  • B65D43/16—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement
  • B65D43/162—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement the container, the lid and the hinge being made of one piece
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D55/00—Accessories for container closures not otherwise provided for
  • B65D55/02—Locking devices; Means for discouraging or indicating unauthorised opening or removal of closure
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
  • B65D81/32—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging two or more different materials which must be maintained separate prior to use in admixture
  • B65D81/3294—Thermoformed trays or the like with a plurality of recesses for different materials located in different recesses
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D2251/00—Details relating to container closures
  • B65D2251/10—Details of hinged closures
  • B65D2251/1016—Means for locking the closure in closed position
  • B65D2251/1025—Integral locking elements penetrating in an opening, e.g. a flap through a slit, a hook in an opening
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
  • B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D2543/00018—Overall construction of the lid
  • B65D2543/00064—Shape of the outer periphery
  • B65D2543/0012—Shape of the outer periphery having straight sides, e.g. with curved corners
  • B65D2543/00175—Shape of the outer periphery having straight sides, e.g. with curved corners four straight sides, e.g. trapezium or diamond
  • B65D2543/00194—Shape of the outer periphery having straight sides, e.g. with curved corners four straight sides, e.g. trapezium or diamond square or rectangular
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
  • B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D2543/00018—Overall construction of the lid
  • B65D2543/00259—Materials used
  • B65D2543/00296—Plastic
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
  • B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D2543/00444—Contact between the container and the lid
  • B65D2543/00481—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container
  • B65D2543/0049—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container on the inside, or a part turned to the inside of the mouth of the container
  • B65D2543/00527—NO contact
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
  • B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D2543/00444—Contact between the container and the lid
  • B65D2543/00481—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container
  • B65D2543/00537—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container on the outside, or a part turned to the outside of the mouth of the container
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
  • B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
  • B65D2543/00824—Means for facilitating removing of the closure
  • B65D2543/00944—Located only on the container, e.g. recesses

Definitions

• the present invention relates to a packaging container, more specifically, to clamshell-type packaging containers.
• Clamshell packaging is used for secure display or storage of items.
• a packaging container includes a base section defining a chamber with spaced apart inner and outer wall segments with the outer wall segment including at least one aperture formed therein and a laterally extending flange extending therefrom. At least one depression is formed within the outer wall segment with the at least one aperture formed within the at least one depression.
• the packaging container further includes a cover section having a side wall portion defining a cover; the cover section is pivotally coupled to the base section and configured to pivot between an open state and a closed state.
• At least one inwardly protruding section is formed in the side wall portion of the cover section and is shaped to correspond with the at least one depression formed within the outer wall segment of the base section.
• the at least one projection is formed within the at least one inwardly protruding section and extends inwardly from wall segment of the cover section for engaging the at least one aperture formed within the outer wall segment of base section, thereby retaining the cover section over the base section and securing the packaging container in a closed position.
• a recessed face formed in the cover section which extends towards the at least one first aperture formed within the inner wall segment of the base section when the packaging container is in a closed position such that movement of the inner wall segment is hindered by the recessed face when the deformable flange is depressed, preventing the projection from being released from the at least one first aperture and the at least one second aperture.
• FIG. 1 A is a perspective view of a packaging container according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which the packaging container is opened.
• FIG. IB is a front view of the packaging container of FIG. 1 A in an open configuration.
• FIG. 1C is an end view of the packaging container of FIG. 1 A in an open configuration.
• FIG. ID is a front view of the packaging container of FIG. 1 A, in which the packaging container is closed.
• FIG. IE is a side view the packaging container of FIG. 1 A in a closed state.
• FIG. IF is an end view of the packaging container of FIG. 1 A in a closed state.
• FIG. 1 G illustrates an end view of the packaging container of FIG. 1 A in a closed state with a flange depressed.
• FIG. 1H multiple packaging containers in a stacked configuration.
• FIG. 2 A is a front view of an alternate embodiment of a packaging container according to the present invention in an open configuration.
• FIG. 2B is an end view of the packaging container of FIG. 2A in an open configuration.
• FIG. 2C is a front view of the packaging container of FIG. 2A, in which the packaging container is closed.
• FIG. 2D is a side view the packaging container of FIG. 2A in a closed state.
• FIG. 2E is an end view of the packaging container of FIG. 2A in a closed state.
• FIG. 2F is a view of an alternate embodiment of the packaging container of FIG. 2A in an open configuration.
• FIG. 3 A is a perspective view of a packaging container according to another embodiment of the present invention, in which the packaging container is opened.
• FIG. 3B is a front view of the packaging container of FIG. 3 A in an open configuration.
• FIG. 3C is an end view of the packaging container of FIG. 3A in an open configuration.
• FIG. 3D is a front view of the packaging container of FIG. 3 A, in which the packaging container is closed.
• FIG. 3E is a side view the packaging container of FIG. 3 A in a closed state.
• FIG. 3F is an end view of the packaging container of FIG. 3 A in a closed state.
• FIGS 4A-4D illustrate assembled, bottom, cover, and assembled top views of an alternate embodiment of a packaging container.
• FIGS 5 A-5B illustrate side and enlarged side views of a locked packaging container according to an additional embodiment.
• FIGS 5C-5D illustrate perspective and side views of an alternate locked packaging container according to an embodiment of the invention.
• FIGS. 5E-5F illustrate enlarged views of a locking mechanism of the packaging container.
• FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate a perspective view of a packaging assembly having a dividing panel in an open state, a perspective view of a packaging assembly having a dividing panel in a partially closed state, and side view of the packaging assembly in a closed state.
• FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate a top open view, a perspective open view, and a closed view of a packaging assembly having multiple chambers.
• FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate an open perspective view, side view, and side display view of a packaging assembly with a stand.
• FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate an open perspective view, side open view, and side closed view of a packaging assembly.
• FIGS. 1 OA- IOC illustrate an open perspective view, side open view, and side display view of a packaging assembly with compartment and a stand.
• FIG. 1 A illustrates a perspective view of a packaging container 10, in which packaging container 10 is opened to accommodate desired contents.
• FIG. IB is a front view of the packaging container of FIG. 1 A in an open configuration.
• FIG 1C is an end view of the packaging container of FIG. 1 A in an open configuration.
• FIGs. ID, IE, and IF are front, side, and end views of packaging container 10 closed state.
• FIG. 1H illustrates multiple packaging containers 10 in a stacked configuration.
• Packaging container 10 includes a base section 20 having a chamber 25 defined by a peripheral wall 30.
• Peripheral wall 30 forms the perimeter of chamber 25 and is collectively formed by spaced-apart inner wall segment 30a and an outer wall segment 30b adjoined by a top ledge 30c.
• outer wall segment 30b includes at least one depression 40 formed therein. At least one aperture 42 is formed within depression 40 for engaging an inwardly protruding section formed on a cover section 50, as will be discussed in detail below. A plurality of apertures 42 may be included in some embodiments. At least one additional aperture 43, which aligns with aperture 42, may also be formed within inner wall segment 30a of peripheral wall 30. Top ledge 30c also includes a scalloped area 44 formed therein adjacent to depression 40 formed within outer wall segment 30b for facilitating release of cover section 50.
• a laterally extending flange 45 extends from outer wall segment 30b as show in FIG. lA.
• Packaging container 10 also includes a cover section 50 pivotally coupled to base section 20 at a hinge 52.
• Cover section 50 is configured to pivot about hinge 52 between an open state and a closed state.
• cover section 50 includes a top surface having a recessed face 77 and side wall portion 54, which is collectively formed by first and second lateral walls 55, 57 and first and second end walls 58, 59.
• Side wall portion 54 defines a cover compartment 60 that fits over base section 20.
• First lateral wall 55 includes at least one inwardly protruding section 65 shaped to correspond with depression 40 formed within outer wall segment 30b of peripheral wall 30.
• a post 67 projects from inwardly protruding section 65.
• post 67 includes an angled edge 67a and a top edge 67b. Post 67 is adapted to engage corresponding apertures 42 and 43.
• a peripheral flange 70 extends horizontally from a perimeter of cover section 50 such that, when packaging container 10 is in a closed position, peripheral flange 70 abuts flange 45 of base section 20.
• Peripheral flange 70 includes a cut out area 71 adjacent to inwardly protruding section 65, as will be discussed below.
• packaging container 10 includes features that allows for easy one-hand opening.
• laterally extending flange 45 is deformable such that when flange 45 depressed in a region 75 adjacent to depression 40 of outer wall segment 30b, outer wall segment 30b and inner wall segment 30a move inwardly, as shown in Fig. 1G, thereby releasing post 67 from apertures 42 and 43 and opening packaging container 10.
• Peripheral flange 70 includes a cut out area 71 at inwardly protruding section 65 of side wall portion 54, such as to provide unobstructed access for depressing deformable flange 45 at region 75 of base section 20 for opening packaging container 10.
• Scalloped area 44 facilitates the inward movement of outer wall segment 30b and inner wall segment 30a by ensuring movement is not obstructed by recessed face 76 of the top surface.
• Each of flanges 45 and 70 includes a hanger opening 72a, 72b formed at one side such that packaging container 10 can be hung on and kept in a display rack used for storage or selling of items contained in packaging container 10.
• hanger openings 72a and 72b align with one another.
• Hanger openings 72a and 72b are formed by a circular hole, a linear groove, or a combination such that packaging container 10 can be hung on any display rack having a circular rack rod or a thin plate-shaped rack rod.
• packaging container 10 can be suspended from a display rack through hanger openings 72a and 72b.
• packaging container may include only one hanger opening 72a.
• packaging container 10 includes a recessed face 76 which acts as a receiving area formed in a top surface of cover section 50. Recessed face 76 accepts and retains a bottom 77 of another packaging container 10 to allow for a stable stacking arrangement.
• FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate an additional embodiment of packaging container 10.
• packaging container is elongated in order to accommodate items such as fishing lures or the like.
• the dimensions of packaging container may be, for example, about 4.5' x 1" x 1", about 5.75" x 1 x 1, or about 7 x 1 x 1.
• FIG. 2A is a front view of packaging container 10 in an open position.
• FIG. 2B is an end view of packaging container 10, in which packaging container 10 is opened to accommodate contents.
• FIGs. 2C, 2D and 2E are front, side, and end views of packaging container 10 in a closed position.
• packaging container 10 may include a mating features, such as an O-shaped depression 172, formed in base portion 20 and a corresponding projection 173 formed in cover portion 50.
• the shape or configuration of the mating features can be varied and are surrounded by a space 174 such that when an item is positioned in container 10 a portion of the item can be held in place by the mating features.
• a packaging container 110 having a base section 120 having a chamber 125 defined by a peripheral wall 130.
• Peripheral wall 130 forms the perimeter of chamber 125 and is collectively formed by spaced-apart inner wall segment 130a and an outer wall segment 130b adjoined by a top ledge 130c.
• Peripheral wall 130 extends along three sides of base section 120 and includes an open end 132.
• chamber 125 includes a plurality of wells 123 formed within a bottom surface 126 for receiving items to be stored within packaging container 110.
• outer wall segment 130b includes at least one depression 140 formed therein.
• An aperture 142 is formed within depression 140 for engaging a projection formed on a cover section, as will be discussed in detail below.
• At least one additional aperture 143 which aligns with aperture 142, may also be formed within inner wall segment 130a of peripheral wall 130.
• a laterally extending flange 145 is extends from outer wall segment 130b.
• Packaging container 110 further includes a plate 146 pivotally attached to base section 120 at hinge or pivot axis 151.
• Plate 146 including a plurality of holes 148 formed therein for aligning with plurality of wells 123 formed in bottom surface 126.
• Plate 146 is adapted to secure items positioned in wells 123.
• Plate 146 may then be pivoted about hinge or pivot axis 151 such that it is parallel to bottom surface 126 and holes 148 are aligned with wells 123.
• plate 146 may be closed first allowing items, such as long cylindrical items, to be placed into through holes 148 and into wells 123.
• Plate 146 and holes 148 may provide support for holding such items within wells 123.
• Plate 146 includes a flange 149 which abuts ridges 124 of chamber 125, thereby holding plate 146 in a position parallel to a bottom surface of chamber 125. Once plate is in a closed position, cover section 150 may be pivoted over base section 120 as discussed below.
• Cover section 150 pivotally coupled to base section 120 at a hinge 152.
• Cover section 150 is configured to pivot about hinge 152 between an open state and a closed state.
• cover section 150 includes a side wall portion 154 collectively formed by first and second lateral walls 155, 157 and first and second end walls 158, 159.
• Side wall portion 154 defines a cover compartment 160 that fits over base section 120.
• First lateral wall 155 includes at least one inwardly protruding section 165 shaped to correspond with depression 140 formed within outer wall segment 130b of peripheral wall 130.
• a post 167 projects from inwardly protruding section 165. Post 167 is adapted to engage corresponding aperture 142.
• a peripheral flange 170 extends horizontally from a perimeter of cover section 150 such that, when packaging container 110 is in a closed position, peripheral flange 170 abuts flange 145 of base section 120.
• Peripheral flange 170 includes a cut out area 171 adjacent to inwardly protruding section 165, as will be discussed below.
• laterally extending flange 145 is deformable such that when flange 145 depressed in a region 175 adjacent to depression 140 of outer wall segment 130b, outer wall segment 130b moves inwardly, and thereby releasing post 167 from apertures 142 and/or 143 and opening packaging container 110.
• Peripheral flange 170 of cover section 150 includes a cut out area 171 at inwardly protruding section 165 of side wall portion 154, such as to provide unobstructed access for depressing deformable flange 145 of base section 120 for opening packaging container 110 when in a closed position.
• a scalloped area 144 is also formed adjacent to depression 140 formed within outer wall segment 130b for facilitating release of cover section 150, as shown in FIG. 3A.
• FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate assembled, bottom, cover, and assembled top views of packaging container 210.
• base portion 220 includes at least one depression 240 formed therein.
• An aperture 242 is formed within depression 240 for engaging a projection formed on cover section 250, as will be discussed in detail below.
• At least one additional aperture, which aligns with aperture 242, may also be formed within base portion 220.
• a laterally extending flange 245 is also provided.
• Cover section 250 includes a side wall portion 254 having at least one inwardly protruding section 265 shaped to correspond with depression 240 formed within a peripheral wall 230 of base portion 220.
• a post 267 projects from inwardly protruding section 265.
• Post 267 is adapted to engage corresponding aperture 242.
• a peripheral flange 270 extends horizontally from a perimeter of cover section 250, such that when packaging container 210 is in a closed position, peripheral flange 270 abuts flange 245 of base section 220.
• Peripheral flange 270 includes a cut out area 271 adjacent to inwardly protruding section 265, as shown in FIG. 4D.
• Laterally extending flange 245 is deformable such that when flange 245 is depressed in a region 275 adjacent to depression 240, outer and inner segments of peripheral wall 230 move inwardly, thereby releasing post 267 from aperture 242 (and any additional apertures) and opening packaging container 210.
• Peripheral flange 270 of cover section 250 includes a cut out area 271 at inwardly protruding section 265 of side wall portion 254, such as to provide unobstructed access for depressing deformable flange 245 of base section 220 for opening packaging container 210.
• packaging container 210 includes corresponding elements on each side thereof such that when both first and second regions 275 are depressed, cover section 250 is released from base section 220.
• FIGs. 5A-5B illustrate side and enlarged side views of a lockable packaging container 310 according to an additional embodiment.
• Packaging container 310 includes a mechanism for locking which does not allow for easy opening.
• packaging container 310 includes elements corresponding to those of packaging container 10.
• packaging container 310 includes at least one obstructive member for preventing the opening of packaging container 310.
• packaging container 310 includes an obstructive member in the form of a recessed face 376 formed in a cover section 350 which extends towards an aperture 343 formed in inner wall segment 330a of base section 320 when packaging container 310 is in a closed position.
• Laterally extending flange 345 is deformable such that when flange 345 is depressed in a region 375 of outer wall segment 330b adjacent to depression 340, outer wall segment 330b moves inwardly toward inner wall segment 330a.
• recessed face 376 is formed within the top surface and extends adjacent to aperture 342 of inner wall segment 330a, movement of inner wall segment 330a is hindered by recessed face 376. Therefore, post 367 is not released from apertures 342 and 343 and cover section 350 remains secured in a closed position over base section 320.
• lockable packaging container 310 may additionally include obstructive members in the form of protuberances 312 extending from the top surface or recessed face 376 adjacent to post 367 of cover section 350.
• FIGS 5C-5D illustrate perspective and side views of locked packaging container 310 according to an embodiment of the invention.
• FIGS. 5E-5F illustrate enlarged views of a locking mechanism of packaging container 310.
• laterally extending flange 345 is deformable such that when flange 345 is depressed in a region 375 of outer wall segment 330b outer wall segment 330b moves inwardly toward inner wall segment 330a.
• post 367 is not released from apertures 342 and 343 and cover section 350 remains secured in a closed position over base section 320. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5F, post 367 is longer such that movement of inner wall segment 330a is further restricted and packaging container 310 is prevented from opening.
• FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate perspective views of an additional embodiment of a packaging container 410 in an open state, a partially closed state, and a closed state.
• Packaging container 410 includes a base section 420 having a chamber 425 defined by a peripheral wall 430.
• Peripheral wall 430 forms the perimeter of chamber 425 and is collectively formed by spaced-apart inner wall segment 430a and an outer wall segment 430b adjoined by a top ledge 430c.
• Peripheral wall 430 extends along three sides of base section 420 and includes an open end 432.
• chamber 425 includes ridges 424 formed within inner wall segment 430a of packaging container 410.
• a divider plate 446 having a window 448 formed therein is pivotally attached to base section 420 at pivot axis 447.
• plate 446 When plate 446 is in an open position, items may be placed in chamber 425. Plate 446 may then be pivoted about pivot axis 447 such that it is parallel to a bottom surface 426 of chamber 425, as shown in FIG. 6B. Alternatively, plate 446 may be closed first allowing items to be placed through window 448 into chamber 425.
• Plate 446 includes a flange 449 which abuts ridges 424 of chamber 425, thereby holding plate 446 in a position parallel to a bottom surface of chamber 425.
• a cover section 450 may be pivoted over base section 420 at axis 452.
• plate 446 creates first and second chambers 471 and 472 within packaging container 410.
• packaging container 410 includes elements corresponding to those discussed with respect to FIGs. 1 A- IF. The closure and release operate in a corresponding manner as previously described.
• outer wall segment 430b includes at least one depression 440 formed therein.
• An aperture 442 is formed within depression 440 for engaging an inwardly protruding section formed on a cover section 450.
• At least one additional aperture 443, which aligns with aperture 442, may also be formed within inner wall segment 430a.
• a scalloped area 444 is also formed therein adjacent to depression 440 formed within outer wall segment 430b for facilitating release of cover section 450.
• Cover section 450 includes at least one inwardly protruding section 465 shaped to correspond with depression 440 formed within outer wall segment 430b.
• a post 467 projects from inwardly protruding section 465 for engaging corresponding apertures 442 and 443.
• a peripheral flange 470 extends horizontally from a perimeter of cover section 450 such that, when packaging container 410 is in a closed position, peripheral flange 470 abuts flange 445 of base section 420.
• packaging container 410 includes features that allows for easy one-hand opening.
• laterally extending flange 445 is deformable such that when flange 445 depressed in a region 475 adjacent to depression 440 of outer wall segment 430b, outer wall segment 430b and inner wall segment 430a move inwardly, thereby releasing post 467 from apertures 442 and 443 and opening packaging container 410.
• a packaging container 510 may include multiple chambers.
• FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate a top open view, a side open view, an end open view and a closed view of a packaging assembly having multiple chambers.
• Packaging container 510 includes a base section 520 including ridges 524.
• Peripheral wall 530 extends along three sides of base section 520 and includes an open end 532.
• a divider chamber 546 having a bottom surface 551 and a cover 560 hinged thereto at axis 548, is pivotally attached to base section 520 at pivot axis 547.
• Divider chamber 546 includes a flange 549 which abuts ridges 524 of base section 520, thereby holding divider chamber 546 in a position parallel to a bottom surface 526 of base section 520.
• a cover section 550 may be pivoted at axis 552 over base section 520. As shown in FIG.
• packaging container 510 includes elements corresponding to those discussed with respect to FIGs. 1 A- IF. The closure and release operate in a corresponding manner as previously described.
• outer wall segment 530b includes at least one depression 540 formed therein.
• An aperture 542 is formed within depression 540 for engaging an inwardly protruding section 565 formed on a cover section 550.
• At least one additional aperture 543 which aligns with aperture 542, may also be formed within inner wall segment 530a.
• a scalloped area 544 is also formed therein adjacent to depression 540 formed within outer wall segment 530b for facilitating release of cover section 550.
• Cover section 550 includes at least one inwardly protruding section 565 shaped to correspond with depression 540 formed within outer wall segment 530b.
• a post 567 projects from inwardly protruding section 565 for engaging corresponding apertures 542 and 543.
• a peripheral flange 570 extends horizontally from a perimeter of cover section 550 such that, when packaging container 510 is in a closed position, peripheral flange 570 abuts flange 545 of base section 520.
• packaging container 510 includes features that allows for easy one-hand opening.
• laterally extending flange 545 is deformable such that when flange 545 depressed in a region 575 adjacent to depression 540 of outer wall segment 530b, outer wall segment 530b and inner wall segment 530a move inwardly, thereby releasing post 567 from apertures 542 and 543 and opening packaging container 510.
• FIGs 8A-8C illustrates an embodiment of a packaging container 610 having a stand 615 for propping up packaging container 610.
• FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate an open perspective view, side view, and side display view of packaging container 610.
• the elements of packaging container 610 correspond to those described in connection with FIGs 1 A-IG.
• packaging container 610 includes base section 620 and cover section 650, which is configured to pivot about hinge 652 between an open state and a closed state.
• packaging container 610 includes features that allows for easy one-hand opening.
• a laterally extending flange 645 is deformable such that when flange 645 depressed in a region 675 adjacent to a depression 640 of outer wall segment 630b, outer wall segment 630b and inner wall segment 630a (shown in FIG. 8 A) move inwardly, thereby releasing post 667 from apertures 642 and 643 and opening packaging container 610.
• Peripheral flange 670 of cover section 650 includes an inwardly protruding section 665 coupling with depression 640 of base section 620.
• a scalloped area 644 facilitates the inward movement of outer wall segment 630b and inner wall segment 630a by ensuring movement is not obstructed by recessed face 676 formed within the top surface.
• Packaging container 610 further includes a stand 615 extending from and pivotally coupled to laterally extending flange 645 of base section 620 at hinge 647.
• Stand 615 includes a C-shaped portion 617 for engaging a notch 618 that extends from a bottom surface 626 of base section 620.
• stand 615 is rotated about hinge 647 such that notch 618 of packaging container 610 fits within C-shaped portion 617 of stand 615.
• a flange 619 extends around a perimeter of stand 615, thereby creating a stable base for stand 615.
• Packaging container 710 includes similar elements to those described in connection with the embodiment shown in FIGs 6A-6C.
• packaging container 710 includes a chamber 725 with ridges 724 formed therein.
• a divider plate 746 is pivotally attached to base section 720 at pivot axis 747.
• divider plate 746 may include a window formed therein.
• plate 746 may be closed first allowing items to be placed through a window into chamber 725.
• Plate 746 includes a flange 749 which abuts ridges 724 of chamber 725, thereby holding plate 746 in a position parallel to a bottom surface of chamber 725.
• a cover section 750 may be pivoted over base section 720 at axis 752.
• plate 746 creates first and second chambers 771 and 772 within packaging container 710.
• packaging container 710 includes elements corresponding to those discussed with respect to FIGs. 1 A- IF. The closure and release operate in a corresponding manner as previously described.
• outer wall segment 730b includes at least one depression 740 formed therein.
• An aperture 742 is formed within depression 740 for engaging an inwardly protruding section formed on a cover section 750.
• At least one additional aperture 743 which aligns with aperture 742, may also be formed within inner wall segment 730a.
• a scalloped area 744 is also formed therein adjacent to depression 740 formed within outer wall segment 730b for facilitating release of cover section 750.
• Cover section 750 includes at least one inwardly protruding section 765 shaped to correspond with depression 740 formed within outer wall segment 730b.
• packaging container 710 includes features that allows for easy one-hand opening.
• laterally extending flange 745 is deformable such that when flange 745 depressed in a region 775 adjacent to depression 740 of outer wall segment 730b, outer wall segment 730b and inner wall segment 730a move inwardly, thereby releasing post 767 from apertures 742 and 743 and opening packaging container 710.
• a stand 715 extends from and is pivotally coupled to laterally extending flange 745 of base section 720 at hinge 748 at an end opposite divider plate 746.
• Stand 715 includes a C-shaped portion 717 for engaging a notch 718 that extends from a bottom surface 726 of base section 720.
• Plate 746 may then be pivoted about pivot axis 747 such that it is parallel to a bottom surface of chamber 725.
• Plate 746 includes a flange 749 which abuts ridges 724 of chamber 725, thereby holding plate 746 in a position parallel to a bottom surface of chamber 725.
• a cover section 750 may be pivoted over base section 720, securing packaging container 710 in a closed position.
• Stand 715 may then be rotated about hinge 748 such that notch 718 of packaging container 710 fits within C-shaped portion 717 of stand 715.
• a flange 719 extends around a perimeter of stand 615, thereby creating a stable base for stand 715.
• packaging container 710 is securely supported in an upright position by stand 715 as shown in FIG. 9C.
• FIGS. 1 OA- IOC illustrate an open perspective view, side open view, and side display view of an additional embodiment of packaging container 810, including a stand 815 having a chamber 816 formed therein.
• the elements of packaging container 810 correspond to those described in connection with FIGs 1 A-IG.
• packaging container 810 includes base section 820 and cover section 850, which is configured to pivot about hinge 852 between an open state and a closed state.
• packaging container 810 includes features that allows for easy one-hand opening.
• a laterally extending flange 845 is deformable such that when flange 845 depressed in a region 875 adjacent to a depression 840 of outer wall segment 830b, outer wall segment 830b and inner wall segment 830a move inwardly, thereby releasing post 867 from apertures 842 and 843 and opening packaging container 810.
• Peripheral flange 870 of cover section 850 includes an inwardly protruding section 865 coupling with depression 840 of base section 820.
• a scalloped area 844 facilitates the inward movement of outer wall segment 830b and inner wall segment 830a by ensuring movement is not obstructed by recessed face 876.
• Packaging container 810 further includes a stand 815 extending from and pivotally coupled to laterally extending flange 845 of base section 820 at hinge 847.
• Stand 815 includes a C-shaped portion 817 for engaging a notch 818 that extends from a bottom surface 826 of base section 820.
• stand 815 includes a hollow interior portion forming a chamber 816 covered by a lid 812 pivotally coupled thereto.
• Lid 812 includes a depressed face portion 827 for mating with a perimeter 828 of chamber 816 to provide a secure closure of chamber 816.
• stand 815 When packaging container 810 and chamber 815 are in closed positions, stand 815 is rotated about hinge 847 such that notch 818 of packaging container 810 fits within C-shaped portion 817 of stand 815.
• a flange 819 extends around a perimeter of chamber 815 and lid 812, thereby creating a stable base for stand 815.
• packaging container 810 is supported in an upright position by stand 815 that further includes chamber 816 for storing additional items.
• Packaging container 10 may be formed completely or partially of a transparent material to allow a user to see the interior of the packaging container.
• packaging container 10 is manufactured using a therm of orming process.
• retractable tooling features are incorporated into a tool, which forms the package. These features can be of a variety of shapes and sizes.
• Packaging container 10 is formed from a preheated sheet of thermoplastic material that is drawn into, or over a mold to create the desired shape of the end product. After the material has reached a stable set point, where upon it is rigid enough to be removed from the mold without losing the shape of the mold upon which it was formed, the sheet is withdrawn in the opposite direction from which it entered the mold. Typically the sheet enters the mold and is removed from the mold in a vertical fashion.
• Posts 67 are formed utilizing retractable features, such as a round post, or pin. When the heated plastic sheet is drawn into the mold the post is in an extended position. The plastic forms around the post, adopting its shape. The post is then retracted until the face of the post is flush with the sidewall of the mold.
• the post is out of the way such that the plastic product can be removed from the mold.
• Mechanical linkages and drive mechanisms may be used. Alternately, magnetics, pneumatic cylinders or the like may be employed.
• the timing of the projection of the feature outbound from the sidewall of the mold may be fine-tuned by being in the fully extended position prior to the heated material entering the mold and being activated just after the material has entered the mold, but prior to the material cooling beyond the point where it will be able to form around the feature.
• Apertures 42 and 43 are formed within outer wall segment 30b and inner wall segment 30a of wall 30, which are vertical or nearly vertical surfaces.
• a punch and die mechanism is utilized to form apertures 42 and 43.
• the punch and die may mimic the profile of the formed post 67, but with a slightly larger profile to allow for clearance and ease of insertion of the formed posts 67 within apertures 43 and 43.
• the cutout may take a shape that is different from the formed projection.
• the formed projection could be a simple post, but the cutout could be oval in shape.
• the function of projections or posts 67 and cutouts or apertures 42, 43 is to prevent the vertical opening of cover section 50 of packaging container 10.
• apertures 42, 43 may be round and projections may be star, octagonal, or the like, in shape.
• Apertures 42 and 43 are formed after the forming of packaging container 10. Thus, the plastic has formed into the mold, the plastic has been demolded and then the apertures are cutout. In high volume production the cutting of the hole feature occurs at a station between a forming station and a die cutting station. It is in the die cutting station that the planer surfaces of the plastic container are trimmed from the surrounding web of material so that the container can be removed from a leftover perimeter sheet.
• Apertures 42 and 43 may also be formed following a die cutting step, i.e. after the formed and die cut plastic part has been removed from the surrounding left over plastic sheet.
• the last step in the process is to place the formed and die cut package into a mechanical device, which then punches out the holes.
• the holes may be formed by a manually actuated device punching one hole at a time or by a fully automated system punching all the holes in a package at once, with automated load and unload of the package into the punching mechanism.
• the holes may also be cut in the same station as where the planer die cut of the perimeter plastic occurs.
• an item or items is placed in chamber 25 of base section 20.
• Cover section 50 is then rotated to cover base section 20.
• post 67 and inwardly protruding section 65 engages depression 40 and corresponding aperture 42.
• post 67 of cover section 50 penetrates aperture 42 of base section 20, thereby securing cover section 50 to base section 20.
• Post 67 includes an angled edge 67a and a top edge 67b.
• Post 67 penetrates corresponding aperture 42 to prevent base section 50 from being pivoted open.
• Aperture 43 is provided in inner wall segment 30a such that post 67 may penetrate aperture 43 if first lateral wall 55 is pushed inwardly.
• the posts and apertures engage to form a locking feature that uses the shear strength of a post engaged against the wall of material through which the aperture is formed.
• the force required to separate the posts from the apertures is a function of the shear strength of the formed post, and or the tear strength of the punched hole, rather than the function of friction.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Ceramic Engineering (AREA)
• Closures For Containers (AREA)
• Cartons (AREA)

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• 2016
  • 2016-04-22 CN CN201680036578.XA patent/CN107848666B/zh active Active
  • 2016-04-22 CA CA2983653A patent/CA2983653C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
  • 2016-04-22 BR BR112017022718-5A patent/BR112017022718B1/pt active IP Right Grant
  • 2016-04-22 WO PCT/US2016/028996 patent/WO2016172592A1/en active Application Filing
  • 2016-04-22 EP EP16784003.2A patent/EP3286099B1/en active Active
  • 2016-04-22 MX MX2017013589A patent/MX2017013589A/es unknown
• 2018
  • 2018-09-20 HK HK18112161.8A patent/HK1252833A1/zh unknown

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