U.S. patent application number 11/810732 was filed with the patent office on 2008-05-29 for product display systems.
Invention is credited to Jeff Leonard, Dennis Polvere.
Application Number | 20080121563 11/810732 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39462549 |
Filed Date | 2008-05-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080121563 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Polvere; Dennis ; et
al. |
May 29, 2008 |
Product display systems
Abstract
An adjustable display including a base and one or more gripping
portions for engaging and holding articles in the adjustable
display is disclosed. Articles of various sizes and shapes can be
accommodate in the same adjustable display. The display and the
gripping portions can be cut width-wise. A modular display system
and a product packaging system are also disclosed.
Inventors: |
Polvere; Dennis; (Cream
Ridge, NJ) ; Leonard; Jeff; (Princeton, NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WINSTON & STRAWN LLP;PATENT DEPARTMENT
1700 K STREET, N.W.
WASHINGTON
DC
20006
US
|
Family ID: |
39462549 |
Appl. No.: |
11/810732 |
Filed: |
June 6, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60811573 |
Jun 6, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/763 ;
206/561; 206/562; 206/564; 206/736 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47F 5/10 20130101; A47F
5/118 20130101; B65D 5/5021 20130101; B65D 25/06 20130101; B65D
25/108 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/763 ;
206/736; 206/561; 206/564; 206/562 |
International
Class: |
B65D 5/50 20060101
B65D005/50; B65D 6/04 20060101 B65D006/04 |
Claims
1. An display tray for holding an article comprising: a base for
supporting an article thereon; and a divider having: a mounting
portion that is securable to the base in a position protruding
therefrom by a mounting portion height, and a gripping portion
extending at an angle from the mounting portion longitudinally to
overlay an area of the base, the gripping portion configured for
flexing towards the mounting portion by amounts that are variable
along a lateral direction of the gripping portion for conforming to
variously sized and shaped articles for holding the articles with
respect to the base.
2. The tray of claim 1, wherein the mounting portion is securable
to the base at a mounted location, and the gripping portion extends
over the base remotely from the mounting element.
3. The tray of claim 2, wherein the base comprises a plurality of
mounting elements to which the mounting portion is selectively
securable for selectively configuring the tray by positioning the
divider at a desired mounting element.
4. The tray of claim 1, wherein the gripping portion comprises
flexible members that are flexible substantially independently from
each other and are disposed along the lateral direction for flexing
by different amounts according to a curvature of an article held
thereby.
5. The tray of claim 4, wherein the flexible members comprise a
plurality of spaced projections that are independently bendable
towards the base by varying amounts.
6. The tray of claim 5, wherein the gripping portion comprises a
flexible gripping layer connecting the flexible members to provide
a substantially continuous edge distal from the mounting
portion.
7. The tray of claim 6, wherein the flexible gripping layer is made
of an elastomeric material, and the flexible members are made of a
plastic material.
8. The tray of claim 4, wherein the flexible members comprise a
hinge that is spaced longitudinally from the mounting portion.
9. The tray of claim 8, wherein the hinge comprises a plurality of
hinges.
10. The tray of claim 4, wherein the flexible members comprise
first and second flexible element extending longitudinally and
connectors extending laterally to join adjacent flexible
elements.
11. The tray of claim 10, wherein the flexible elements have hinges
between the connectors.
12. The tray of claim 11, wherein the hinges comprise living
hinges.
13. The tray of claim 11, wherein the gripping portion comprises a
flexible gripping layer connecting the flexible members to provide
a substantially continuous edge distal from the mounting
portion.
14. The tray of claim 1, wherein the gripping portion comprises a
gripping portion extending laterally on opposing sides of the
mounting portion.
15. The tray of claim 1, wherein the divider is substantially L or
T-shaped.
16. The tray of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of the
dividers for holding articles between the dividers.
17. The tray of claim 1, wherein the divider has weakened zones
disposed and configured for facilitating splitting off a lateral
portion of the divider.
18. The tray of claim 17, further comprising a lateral sidewall
configured to engage to a lateral side of the base, wherein the
base comprises a plurality of attachment features configured for
engaging the sidewall upon removal of a lateral portion of the
base.
19. The tray of claim 1, further comprising at least one of a side
wall, a front wall, and a rear wall, and a partial cover that are
affixed with the base around the divider.
20. A modular display system, comprising: the tray of claim 1; and
a pair of rails, the tray and the rails comprising complementary
retention elements for supportively mounting the tray to the rails
at a selectable height.
21. The modular display system of claim 20, further comprising at
least one of a back wall secured with respect to the rails and
disposed behind the tray and a hanging device supporting the rails,
wherein the display system is a power wing display.
22. A tray for holding an article comprising: at least one recess
defining an article receiving cavity, the recess comprising a first
article receiving portion and a second article receiving portion;
and a support device placed on the base, the support device
surrounding at least a portion of the recess and comprising a tab
member extending inwardly towards the recess, wherein the first and
second article receiving portions have different general
configurations.
23. The tray of claim 22, wherein the first and second article
receiving portions are provided at different heights within the
tray.
24. The tray of claim 22, wherein the first and second article
receiving portions respectively comprise a generally arcuate
configuration and a generally rectangular configuration.
25. The tray of claim 22, wherein the tab member has sufficient
flexibility to bend around an article inserted in the recess.
26. The tray of claim 22, further comprising a front wall, a rear
wall, and side walls, wherein the rear wall has a height greater
than the front wall and the side walls in an undulating fashion
from a minimum height proximate the front wall to a maximum height
proximate the rear wall.
27. A combination of a article display case and a shipping carton
comprising: an article display case including: a support member for
receiving one of a plurality of articles of the same or different
sizes and shapes; an article engaging member which surrounds at
least a portion of one or more of the articles and which further
includes a plurality of tab members that extend toward the
article(s); wherein, the article engaging member accommodates
articles of different size or shape and is in sufficient contact
with the article(s) to assist in retaining the articles on the
support member, and wherein the tab members have sufficient
flexibility to bend to accommodate placement of the article(s) on
the tray member; and a shipping container that surrounds the
display case and retains the article(s) therein.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to Provisional Application
No. 60/811,573, filed Jun. 6, 2006, the entire content of which is
expressly incorporated herein by reference thereto.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to product display systems for
displaying articles of various configurations. The invention also
relates to a packaging system that provides stable transportation
of articles of various configurations.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Article display stands and systems are known for advertising
and merchandizing of products such as cosmetic products, perfumes,
and lotions to potential customers. An example of a conventional
display stand is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,774,774, in which
rows of pockets having uniform size and shape are arranged to
receive correspondingly sized and shaped articles. The pockets can
receive only articles of a specific size and shape, such as a
cylindrical shape, and cannot be used to hold articles of a
different size or shape. Another example of a conventional display
stand is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,336,564. This patent
discloses elements having apertures of various sizes and shapes for
receiving various cosmetic articles. Each aperture has a permanent,
pre-determined size and shape, and therefore can receive only an
article having the corresponding size and shape.
[0004] Although these conventional systems generally have been
considered satisfactory for their intended purpose, the utility of
such systems is limited to a single product line or article size.
Thus, it would be desirable to provide a display system that is not
limited to a predetermined product configuration but is capable of
displaying various product configurations.
[0005] Further, systems for packaging and shipping display stands
that can be converted to a display case at the retail location,
such as a convertible display case disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
4,116,330, are known. Conventional systems, however, generally
require complex assembly as well as significant counter or floor
space. Thus, an improved packaging system for containing display
stands that is more user-friendly and efficient is needed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In an embodiment, a display tray for holding an article is
provided. The display tray comprising a base for supporting an
article thereon and a divider having a mounting portion that is
securable to the base in a position protruding therefrom by a
mounting portion height and a gripping portion extending at an
angle from the mounting portion longitudinally to overlay an area
of the base. The divider can have weakened zones disposed and
configured for facilitating splitting off a lateral portion of the
divider.
[0007] The mounting portion is securable to the base at any mounted
location provided by mounting elements of the base. The mounting
portion is selectively securable for selectively configuring the
tray by positioning the divider at a desired mounting element. The
gripping portion is configured for flexing towards the mounting
portion by amounts that are variable along a lateral direction of
the gripping portion for conforming to variously sized and shaped
articles for holding the articles with respect to the base. The
gripping portion can comprise flexible members (e.g., a plurality
of spaced projections such as tabs or fingers) that are flexible
substantially independently from each other and are disposed along
the lateral direction for flexing by different amounts according to
a curvature of an article held thereby.
[0008] The tray can include retention elements and can be attached
to a pair of rails comprising complementary retention elements to
form a modular display system.
[0009] In an embodiment, a display tray comprises at least one
recess defining an article receiving cavity, the recess comprising
a first article receiving portion and a second article receiving
portion, and a support device placed on the base, the support
device surrounding at least a portion of the recess and comprising
a tab member extending inwardly towards the recess, wherein the
first and second article receiving portions have different general
configurations.
[0010] In another embodiment, a combination of a article display
case and a shipping carton is provided, wherein the shipping carton
surrounds the display case and retains the articles placed in the
display case.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitutes part of this specification, illustrate and provide a
further understanding of embodiments of the invention.
[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a display tray
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the tray, die cut insert, and
products shown in FIG. 1;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of a merchandising
display case according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of a tray according to
an embodiment of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 5A is a bottom view of a base of a tray according to an
embodiment of the invention, attached to a single side wall;
[0017] FIG. 5B is an illustration of a side wall of a tray
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0018] FIGS. 6A-6G are illustrations of gripping portion
configurations according to embodiments of the invention;
[0019] FIG. 7 illustrates attachment of a mounting portion and a
divider according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0020] FIGS. 8A-8B are illustrations of a tray according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0021] FIGS. 9A-9C are illustrations of display systems according
to embodiments of the invention; and
[0022] FIGS. 10-14 are illustrations of a shipping carton according
to an embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0023] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a display 10 (e.g., a
vacuum formed display stand) generally includes a tray 100 (e.g., a
vacuum formed tray) for receiving products 20. The tray is
typically formed from plastic and has a vertical rear wall 101, an
arcuate front wall 102, with two vertical side walls 103a, 103b
extending therebetween. The vertical rear wall (not shown) extends
to a predetermined height, for example, to a height approximately
1.5 times the height of the arcuate front wall 102. The side walls
103a, 103b extend in an undulating fashion to a maximum height
proximate the rear wall, and a minimum height proximate the front
wall, wherein the minimum height is equal to the height of the
front wall 102. An inner surface of each side wall contains one or
more protrusions 104, 105, whose function will be described
below.
[0024] As shown in FIG. 1, the tray 100 has two rows 110, 112
formed therein for receiving and products 20 for display. It will
be understood that the number of rows can be varied as desired.
Each row is defined by a cavity which extends between the side
walls 103a, 103b, an upstanding ledge 106 disposed between the
rows, and in the two-row configuration of FIG. 1, the front wall
102 or the rear wall (not shown), for the first 110 and second 112
rows respectively. In embodiments with more than two rows, the
middle rows will be defined by the side walls and ledges that
separate adjacent rows.
[0025] In a preferred embodiment, each row is sized and configured
to receive articles of various sizes and shapes (e.g., cylindrical,
rectangular, triangular, etc.). The second or upper row 112 can be
elevated with respect to the first row 110, such that a product
positioned in the second row is visible over a product in a
corresponding position in the first row 110. For embodiments
comprising more than two rows, the rows are preferably arranged in
an ascending fashion, such that the first, front-most row is the
lowest row and the last, back-most row is the highest row. The
heights of the rows can be varied as desired.
[0026] According to an embodiment, recesses 113 for receiving
articles are disposed within each row and define at least first and
second article receiving portions within the row. The first and
second article receiving portions are a shelf portion 107 and a
sunken base portion 108. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1,
there are four generally circular recesses disposed in each row,
which are sized to receive the footprint of products having various
arcuate configurations, e.g., circular, elliptical, oval, and the
like. It will be understood that the number of recesses can be
varied as desired.
[0027] The recesses 113 are sized such that they extend between the
upstanding ledge portion 106 and the boundary wall, i.e., the rear
wall 101 or the front wall 102, depending on which row the recess
is located in. In embodiments with more than two rows, recesses
disposed within the middle rows will extend between adjacent
upstanding ledge portions. The radius of curvature of each recess
113 is impressed upon or blended into the upstanding ledge portion
106 and the boundary wall, to facilitate receipt and retention of
arcuate products by conforming to their general arcuate shape and
contour. For example, when an arcuate product is inserted in the
first row 110, the footprint of the product engages the base
portion 108, the front of the product can engage a curved interior
surface 102a of the front wall, and the back of the product can
engage a curved surface 106a of the upstanding ledge portion.
[0028] In a further embodiment, the shelf portion 107 has a
non-arcuate shape to accommodate products of non-arcuate shape. In
the example shown in FIG. 1, the shelf portion 107 has a generally
rectangular shape, such that products having a generally
rectangular shape, which will not be received by recesses 113, can
be placed on the shelf portion 107. The base of the product sits on
and engage the shelf portions 107. As such, the tray accommodates
various arcuately and non-arcuately shaped products.
[0029] The tray can further comprise a support device, such as a
die cut insert 200 shown in FIGS. 1-2. The support device is placed
on and/or attached to the tray to aid in supporting and securing
the products placed on the tray. The support device has openings
that correspond to the rows and/or recesses of the tray so that
products can be inserted through the openings and placed into the
recesses. The openings substantially conform to the shape of the
uppermost part of the rows over which they are placed. A support
device is formed of any suitable material, including plastic,
rubber, and paper, that provides sufficient rigidity.
[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, the support device in the form of a die
cut insert has horizontal frame portions 210, 212, 214 that extend
along the width of the tray 100 and correspond to the rows 110, 112
defined in the tray. A pair of opposed side border portions 218a,
218b extend at the ends of the horizontal frame portions 210, 212,
214 and along the side walls 103a, 103b. The die cut insert further
comprises a transversely extending portion 216 at a midpoint of the
rows to define four cutouts or product receiving areas 240, 250,
260, 270. As such, the die cut insert surrounds the product
receiving cavities of the tray. The die cut insert can include
additional transversely extending portions as desired, depending on
the size of the tray and the configuration of its product receiving
cavities.
[0031] The die cut insert can further include one or more grooves
or notches 224, 225 along its side borders 218a, 218b. The grooves
or notches 224,225 are disposed to engage the protrusions 104, 105
of the tray side walls 103a, 103b to lock the die cut insert into
position on the tray. Additionally, an adhesive can be applied
between the die cut insert and the tray to further secure the die
cut insert on the tray and to prevent its displacement during the
insertion or removal of products from the tray.
[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the die cut insert is formed such
that it includes arcuate portions 220 in the horizontal frame
portions proximate the recesses, such that the curvature of the
arcuate portions 220 coincides with the curvature of the underlying
recesses 113 as illustrated in FIGS. 1-2. The curvature of the
arcuate portions 220 can further coincide with the blended or
impressed radius portions of upstanding ledge 106a and walls 101a,
102a. Thus, for example, when an arcuate product is inserted
through the die cut insert and into a recess 113 in the first row,
the outer contour of the product will engage the upstanding ledge
106a and the front wall 101a of the tray and the arcuate portion
220 of the die cut insert.
[0033] In a further embodiment, the support device comprises one or
more gripping portions, such as tab members, disposed around an
opening of the device. The gripping portion can be provided in the
form of a tab or as any suitable protruding member. The gripping
portion can be formed on the support device in any desired manner,
for example, integrally with the device or as a separate piece to
be attached to the device. When the gripping portion is provided as
a separate piece, any suitable means of attachment, such as
adhesives, pins, and clips, can be used to attach the gripping
portion to the support device. Preferably, the gripping portion is
formed as part of the support device and does not require separate
attachment. In such embodiments, the material forming the support
device and gripping portion should be sufficiently rigid while
allowing for a certain degree of flexibility and deformation.
[0034] When the support device is placed on the tray, the gripping
portion extends from the opening of the support device proximate
the corresponding recess of the tray, and engages the product
inserted into the opening to hold the product in place. The
gripping portion should have sufficient rigidity to support the
product but should also be sufficiently flexible such that it can
be deformed when pushed by the inserted product. The gripping
portion can be provided in any desired pattern or configuration.
For example, a plurality of gripping portions can be provided to
achieve a certain holding pattern or to provide a certain support
strength, or in a manner that visually optimizes product display,
e.g., by avoiding interference with or obstruction of advertising
labels or product descriptions on products.
[0035] In a preferred example, gripping portions are provided as
tabs 226 disposed proximate either edge of the arcuate portion 220
of the insert frame, and extend inwardly, towards the opening.
Depending on the size and shape of the product that is inserted
into the tray, the tabs remain in their undeformed state or are
deformed when the product is inserted. For example, when the
product has a size and shape sufficient to contact the tabs without
exerting deforming force, the tabs remain in their initial,
undeformed state, but can grasp and/or abut surfaces of the product
to provide stable alignment and retention of the product. When the
product has a size or shape sufficient to push the tabs downward
when being inserted into the tray, the tabs slope downward and abut
the product in a deformed configuration, thereby further securing
the product in place. For example, a rectangular product having a
size and shape that correspond to the opening of the insert will
push the tabs downward when being inserted into the tray. Tabs
therefore provide a primary retaining force to hold and secure
inserted products within the tray.
[0036] In another example, one or more tabs 227 are disposed
between arcuate portions 220 of the insert frame to maintain
products in place and prevent them from falling into an adjacent
receiving cavity. The tabs abut adjacent products and prevent
shifting of products during transport. In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 1-2, tabs 226, 227 are provided between arcuate portions 220
of the insert frame as well as at the edges proximate the arcuate
portions. If desired, tabs can be provided on other portions of the
insert openings, such as on the arcuate portions 220, side border
portions 218a, 218b, and/or transversely extending portion 216.
[0037] According to an embodiment, the display 10 comprising the
tray 100 and the die cut insert 200 is incorporated into a
merchandizing display case 30 as shown in FIG. 3. In the embodiment
shown in FIG. 3, the merchandizing display case 30 comprises two
display areas 32, 34 for receiving two trays. The number and size
of display areas for holding displays or trays can be varied as
desired.
[0038] The merchandizing display case 30 is typically formed from
plastic and has a vertical rear wall (not shown), a front wall 302,
and two vertical side walls 303a, 303b extending therebetween in an
undulating fashion. The front wall 302 can have a generally arcuate
shape. The vertical rear wall 301 extends to a predetermined height
greater than the front wall. For example, the vertical rear well
301 can extend to a height of approximately 1.5 times of the height
of the front wall 302. The side walls 303a, 303b extend to a
maximum height proximate the rear wall, and a minimum height
proximate the front wall, wherein the minimum height is equal to or
is substantially the same as the height of the front wall 102. A
dividing portion, such as a raised divider portion 304, extends
between the front and rear walls to define the two display areas
32, 34. In an example, the divider portion has an arcuate shape,
such as a convex shape, such that the curvature of the divider
portion blends into an arcuate front wall 302, as shown in FIG. 3.
A lip portion 306 extends around the periphery of the display
areas.
[0039] The merchandizing display case 30 can include markings,
graphics or such other features, e.g., advertisements such as
logos, slogans, and trademarks and product description, on any
suitable surface, including the front wall, the divider portion,
and the lip portion. Such features can be provided by any suitable
means, for example, by directly printing on the display case,
attachment, or etching. Further, the display case 30 can include a
designated area or structure for receiving advertisements or other
such materials. For example, a portion of the front wall can be
configured for receiving or attaching advertising materials.
[0040] The size, dimensions, and configuration of the merchandising
display case can be adjusted as desired. For example, the display
case can be designed and sized to fit on a typical shelf or
countertop at a retail location, such as pharmacies and
supermarkets. Further, the display case and its display areas can
be customized as desired. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the
lowest row 310 of the tray placed in the display area 34 can be
partially or entirely closed off from receiving products. Such
closure of the row 310 can be achieved by, for example, extending
the arcuate front wall of the tray and/or the display case over the
row 310 or by providing a separate cover structure over the row
310. Any of the rows in the display areas can be modified by
covering the row partially or entirely with a separate structural
insert or attachment or by extension of a portion of a proximate
wall of the display case, depending on the desired effect.
[0041] According to another embodiment of the invention, an
alternative adjustable tray is provided that allows for increased
flexibility in the configurations of products held therein as well
as in the sizing and arrangement of the tray. As illustrated in
FIG. 4, the adjustable tray 400 comprises a base 402 and a divider
404, which has a mounting portion 405 for engaging and securing the
divider to the base 402 and one or more gripping portions 406.
[0042] The base 402 includes a plurality of mounting elements
configured to receive the mounting portion of the divider. The
mounting elements selective positioning of the divider onto the
base for selectively configuring the tray. The tray can be
selectively configured by positioning the divider at a desired
mounting location by engaging the mounting portion of the divider
with the mounting element of the base. The mounting elements can
have any desired configuration that is capable of receiving and
engaging the mounting portion of the divider. For example, the
mounting element can extend a partial or the entire width of the
base, and can be continuous along the width of the base or can be
divided into separate sections. Further, the mounting elements can
be spaced in any desired manner, e.g., equidistant from one
another, at predetermined intervals, or randomly.
[0043] The variable divider positioning enabled by the use of the
mounting elements allows various tray configurations and
accommodates various product sizes and shapes. Because each divider
can be positioned at any one of the mounting locations, the
configuration of the tray can be easily altered by arranging the
dividers to conform to a particular product size and shape or to
achieve a desired display effect. In FIG. 4, for example, product
receiving areas of three different sizes are defined by four
dividers 404. The dividers 404 are positioned at intervals to
accommodate products of different sizes, such that tray holds both
small and large products simultaneously. Thus, the variability and
flexibility of the tray provides enhanced customization of product
positioning and display. Further, the base can receive, in addition
to dividers, any other structure that is configured to engage the
base, e.g., a longitudinal element that is configured to engage
with multiple mounting elements along a length of the base.
[0044] In an embodiment, the mounting elements of the base are
openings into which the mounting portion of the divider can be
inserted. The openings can have any size and shape, as long as they
are configured to receive and engage the mounting portion. In an
embodiment, the openings are slots along a width of the base. For
example, as shown in FIG. 5A, the openings can be elongated slots
411 that extend substantially the width of the base. Slots can
continuously run the width of the base or can be broken into
separate sections. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, slots 411 are
divided into sections by longitudinal attachment features 421. The
slots can have substantially the same size and/or width as shown in
FIG. 5A, or can have different sizes or widths.
[0045] In an alternative embodiment, the mounting elements are
indentations configured to receive and secure the mounting portion.
For example, the mounting elements can be a series of longitudinal
grooves or channels 412 that extend along the width of the base and
are sized to receive the divider 404 as shown in FIG. 4. While
individual mounting elements in the base can have different
configurations, the mounting elements preferably have a uniform
configuration. The indentations can extend along a partial or the
entire width of the base, and can be continuous or broken into
separate sections. For example, while continuous channels 412 are
shown in FIG. 4, the channels need not be continuous and can be
broken up into several separate sections. Also, while linear
channels 412 are shown an example in FIG. 4, the mounting elements
can have any of a variety of shapes as desired, including arched,
circular, and angled shapes.
[0046] Indentations can additionally include holes 413 which are
configured to receive and lockingly engage corresponding
protrusions or ledges extending from the mounting portion of the
divider. The holes 413 can have any desired or suitable
configuration, as long as they are capable of receiving and
engaging protrusions of the mounting portion.
[0047] The base 402 can further include one or more supporting
members 428 that are attached at one or more locations on the
bottom of the base to provide structure.
[0048] One or both lateral edges 415, 417 of the base 402 are
preferably configured to engage a side wall, so that a side wall
430, such as the one shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B can be attached to
the base 402. In the embodiment shown, the base 402 includes left
and right wings 419, 421 positioned at a distance away from the
left and right lateral edges 415, 417. The wings 419, 421 extend in
substantially parallel to the lateral edges 415, 417. The distance
between the respective lateral edge and the wing can be the same or
different, and is configured for engagement of the side wall 430.
The side wall 430 includes an engaging member 432 for engaging the
side wall 430 to the base 402. The engaging member 432 has a width
substantially corresponding to the distance between a lateral edge
and the corresponding wing, such that the engaging member 432
extends over the bottom portions of the lateral edge and the wing
upon attachment to the base. To attach the base 402 to the side
wall 430, the base is laterally inserted into a portion 436 of the
side wall configured to engage the base, such that the wing 421
intimately contacts the side wall. The engaging member 432 is
pivoted towards the bottom of the base, such that it extends over
the bottom portions of the wing 421 and the lateral edge 419. The
engaging member 432 preferably further includes a securing
structure, such as tabs or clips 434, that can secured, such as by
clipping, onto the lateral edge 419.
[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the base additionally includes at
the bottom, at a distance spaced apart from a lateral edge of the
base, attachment features 423 that are configured for engaging a
side wall. Such attachment features allows attachment of a side
wall to the base upon removal of a lateral portion of the base.
[0050] Shown in FIG. 5A is an embodiment of a base 402 that can be
laterally cut along the width. The base 402 includes at the bottom
a plurality of slots 411 for receiving the mounting portion of a
divider and a plurality of attachment features 423 located at a
distance apart from the lateral edges 415, 417. The attachment
features 423 include one or more protrusions 425, 427, each
extending toward a lateral edge of the base 402. Preferably, the
attachment features 423 include protrusions facing both lateral
edges of the base. The protrusions 425, 427 have substantially the
same width as the engaging member 432 of the side wall 430, and can
have any general shape and length that are suitable for engaging
the engaging member 432. For example, the protrusions 425, 427 can
have a U-shape configuration as shown in FIG. 5A. To adjust the
width of the base 402, the base is cut proximate one of the
attachment features 423, along a latitudinal line 429, such that
the projections 425 form a new lateral edge of the base. To attach
the side wall 430, the base 402 is inserted into a portion of the
side wall 430 such that the lateral edges of the protrusions 425
abut the side wall 430. The engaging member 432 is pivoted towards
the base to engage the attachment feature 423, and the securing
structures 434 of the engaging member 432 can be secured onto the
attachment feature 423. This way, a lateral portion of the base 402
can be removed to cut down the width of the base, and the base can
still be easily attached to a side wall.
[0051] The divider can be provided in any desired shape, but has a
mounting portion preferably extending generally upright from the
base and a gripping portion extending at an angle from the mounting
portion longitudinally. The mounting portion should preferably have
a bottom portion that substantially conforms to the configuration
of the mounting elements of the base. The divider can have
substantially the same or shorter width than the base. When the
divider has a shorter width than the base, multiple dividers can be
placed on the base, continuously or at an interval. The divider
preferably has a uniform thickness, but can be formed with varying
thickness and/or height. Further, the divider can include one or
more longitudinal weakened portions such that the divider can be
laterally separated along the weakened portions. In an embodiment,
the divider has weakened portions at intervals substantially
corresponding to the intervals of attachment features on the base,
such that a corresponding width of the divider can be removed when
the base is laterally cut.
[0052] The divider can be secured to the base by operably engaging
the mounting portion with the mounting element of the base, or by
any other suitable means of attachment that allows removal and
reattachment of the divider.
[0053] In an example, the mounting portion of the divider includes
one or more protrusions or ledges extending at the bottom part of
the mounting portion, to engage the mounting element of the base.
For example, the protrusions can be inserted into openings in the
mounting element to securely affix the divider to the base. The tip
of the protrusion can be tapered to facilitate its insertion into
the opening, and the top side of the protrusion can be angled to
resist pulling and disassembly. A stiffening rib can be provided
proximate the top part of the protrusion to provide support and
structure. When the protrusion is inserted into the opening, the
rib makes a tight fit with the base to securely engage the divider
with the base.
[0054] The divider includes a gripping portion extending at an
angle from the mounting portion longitudinally to overlay an area
of the base. The gripping portion extends preferably within about
45 degrees from the surface of the base, more preferably within
about 20 degrees from the surface of the base, and most preferably
substantially in parallel with the surface of the base. The
gripping portion is configured for deflecting or flexing towards
the mounting portion by amounts that are variable along a lateral
direction of the gripping portion, so that the gripping portion can
conform to variously sized and shaped articles for holding the
articles with respect to the base. When a product is inserted
between adjacent gripping portions, it exerts a downward force on
the gripping portions such that the gripping portions deflects
downward and the top surface of the deflected gripping portion
abuts the product with sufficient resistance to hold the product in
place. In a further embodiment, the gripping portion comprises one
or more flexible members that are substantially independently
flexible from one another and are disposed along the lateral
direction for flexing by different amounts according to a curvature
of the product held thereby.
[0055] The divider can include a gripping portion on one
longitudinal side or on opposing longitudinal sides. When the
divider has a gripping portion extending from one side, the divider
is substantially L-shaped. When the divider has gripping portions
extending from both sides, the divider is substantially T-shaped.
The gripping portion can be provided at any desired height along
the divider 404, preferably proximate the top of the divider 404.
If desired, multiple layers of gripping portions can be provided at
various heights of the divider. In a preferred example, the
gripping portion aids in gripping and retaining the product in
place with respect to the base without substantially interfering
with or obstructing any indicia on the product, such as
advertisements and product descriptions.
[0056] The gripping portion can be provided in any desired form and
configuration, such as a tab, a comb-like structure, a protrusion,
and a strip having a toothed or sawed edge, as long as the gripping
portion provides sufficient flexibility and resistance. The
material and configuration of the gripping portion preferably
provide inherent resistance to push against the product inserted
between adjacent gripping portions, so that the product can be held
in place. Multiple gripping portion configurations can be provided
on one divider. For example, one part of the divider can include a
gripping portion of a continuous strip configuration while another
part includes a plurality of individual flexible members, e.g., in
a comb-like structure.
[0057] Non-limiting examples of gripping portion configurations are
shown in FIGS. 6A-6G. Also shown in FIGS. 6D and 6F are ribbed
portions 442 of the preferred divider 404 that provide additional
stiffening and support and protrusions 444 extending from the
bottom of the mounting portion 405. The protrusions 444 are tapered
at the bottom to facilitate their insertion into the base.
[0058] FIG. 6A shows a gripping portion having a continuous,
generally rectangular strip configuration 450 with a straight outer
edge. Such gripping portion 450 is preferably made of a relatively
soft and flexible materials, preferably an elastomeric material
such as foam or rubber. In other embodiments, the outer edge can be
non-linear, e.g., curved or indented. For example, the outer edge
can have a rounded, wavy, or saw-toothed shape. Those skilled in
the art will appreciate that any shaped gripping portion can be
used so long as the gripping portion is sized and configured to
provide enough force or friction against a product to hold the
product in place (e.g., upright) while allowing the user to easily
insert and remove a product between the adjacent gripping
portions.
[0059] FIG. 6B shows a continuous, generally rectangular gripping
portion 452 having a straight outer edge. The gripping portion 452
has a series of weakened portions 454. A portion of the gripping
portion 452 can be separated or detached along a weakened portion
454, such that the length of the gripping portion 452 can be
reduced. The weakened portions 454 can have substantially the same
or different contours as the outer edge of the gripping portion
452, so that the shape of the gripping portion can be modified by
detachment along a weakened portion. For example, the gripping
portion 452 shown in FIG. 6B has weakened portions 454 having
curved shape, such that, when a part of the gripping portion is
detached along one of the weakened portions 454, the remaining
gripping portion would have a curved outer edge.
[0060] FIG. 6C shows a gripping portion 456 having a comb-like
configuration with individual flexible members such as tabs or
fingers 458. In the embodiment shown, the individual fingers are
tapered to provide flexibility. In another embodiment, the width of
the fingers are substantially the same through the entire length of
the tabs or fingers. The tips of the fingers can be rounded,
straight, or pointed. The tips can be curved upward, downward, or
inward. An example of a downwardly curving tip 460 is shown in FIG.
6D. Further, individual flexible members can have varying
thicknesses for varying rigidity. For example, as shown in FIG. 6D,
the tip portion can have a thickness greater than the other
portions of the finger for stiffness.
[0061] One or more protrusions 460, 462, 464 can extend from the
tip of the finger 458, for increased surface area and/or greater
resistance and gripping power. FIG. 6D shows a substantially
T-shaped divider 404, having gripping portions 406 extending from
opposing sides of the mounting portion 405. The gripping portions
include a series of fingers. Some of the fingers include two
upwardly extending protrusions 462, 464 at the tip, while the other
fingers include a downwardly extending tip 460.
[0062] Flexible members of a gripping portion can have
substantially the same configuration throughout as shown in FIG.
6C, or can have varying configurations as shown in FIG. 6D. It will
be appreciated that individual members of a comb-like gripping
portion configuration can have any desired shape or combinations of
shapes.
[0063] FIG. 6E shows a comb-like gripping portion having individual
flexible members, e.g., fingers, wherein the gripping portion
further comprises pieces of material 466, 468, 470 attached to some
of the flexible members. A piece of material can be attached to one
flexible member, or can be attached over or around a number of
flexible members. Two or more pieces of material can be attached to
one or more flexible members, e.g., over the top and bottom
surfaces of the flexible members, such that flexible members are
partially or completely wrapped with or enclosed by the pieces of
material. The attached pieces of material can completely enclose
one or more flexible members or partially cover the flexible
members such that certain portions of the flexible members (e.g.,
the tip or the base portion proximate the mounting portion) are
exposed. The pieces of material can be have any desired size,
shape, rigidity, and flexibility as desired. In a preferred
example, the pieces of material provides enhanced gripping or
stiffening characteristics or impart additional strength to the
flexible members.
[0064] In an embodiment shown in FIGS. 6F and 6G, a gripping
portion has a plurality of flexible members 472, which are
separated by spaces 474 having a certain configuration. Preferably
the spaces 474 extend longitudinally between the adjacent flexible
members 474 and include several laterally extending branches 475 to
provide hinge portions of the flexible members that have increased
flexibility compared to other portions of the flexible members. In
the embodiment shown, each space 474 has branches 475 extending on
both sides. The flexible members 472 can additionally include one
or more openings 476, 477, 478 disposed therein. An opening can be
configured to include a relatively large center portion, a
laterally extending branch that is narrower than the center
portion, or a combination thereof. The openings provide desired
thickness to various parts of the flexible members to help define
the hinges. In this embodiment, the openings 476, 477 have a
relatively large center portion, while the opening 478 is a narrow,
laterally extending slot that is preferably arcuate and curved away
from the mounting portion to facilitate conforming about a convexly
shaped article.
[0065] Further, as shown in dotted lines, the flexible member
comprises first and second flexible elements 492, 494 extending
longitudinally and connectors 496 extending laterally to join
adjacent flexible elements. The flexible member has hinges between
the flexible elements and the connectors. Preferably, the hinges
are living hinges, i.e., a hinge with no moving parts, to allow
deflection and flexure thereabout. The living hinges the flexible
members to deflect and curve around a curvature of the product held
thereby. Because living hinges are also generally resistant to
wearing, flexible members including living hinges can withstand
repetitive bending and use.
[0066] In a further embodiment, the gripping portion can include a
flexible gripping layer, such as a sheet of sufficiently flexible
material, connecting the flexible members to provide a
substantially continuous edge distal from the mounting portion. The
flexible gripping layer can extend partially or substantially
entirely over the flexible members, and can be provided on the top
surfaces of the flexible members, on the bottom surfaces of the
flexible members, or both. Preferably, the flexible gripping layer
is more flexible than the flexible members. For example, the
flexible gripping layer can be made of an elastomeric material,
while the flexible members are made of a more rigid plastic
material.
[0067] In an embodiment, the gripping portion is provided with
enhanced gripping characteristics. Such characteristics can be
provided by, for example, a certain structural configuration (e.g.,
a knurled surface), a separate structural addition or attachment
(e.g., a sleeve or attachment placed on the gripping portion), such
as those shown in FIG. 6E, or coating with a frictional material
(e.g., a coating that has a higher coefficient of friction than
that of the gripping portion). In an example, a piece of material
is placed around or over at least a portion of the gripping portion
to provide increased friction and/or grip, as well as increased
rigidity and support. Such material can be placed at an edge of the
gripping portion or can substantially surround the gripping
portion.
[0068] In another embodiment, the divider includes a stiffening
member that allows the gripping portion to bend only to a certain
extent, to prevent overflexing and weakening of the gripping
portion. For example, a stiffening member can be provided on the
divider such that it contacts the gripping portion that is bent
down and prevents further bending of the gripping portion. In
another example, a stiffening member is a piece of material
attached to or placed over the gripping portion. Such stiffening
member can be made of a material that provides both stiffening and
enhanced gripping characteristics.
[0069] The divider can be formed by any suitable method, including
injection molding, vacuum forming, extrusion, welding, die cutting,
heat bending, cold forming, and machining. The mounting portion and
the gripping portion of the divider can be made of the same or
different types of materials. Any material that provides the
desired rigidity and grip can be utilized. Examples include
plastic, rubber, foam, metal, paper, wood, and composite and
synthetic materials. Preferred materials include styrene,
polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride. While the
mounting portion should preferably be sufficiently rigid to provide
structure, the gripping portion can be more flexible and/or softer.
The gripping portion material should be capable of being deformed
upon insertion of a product into the display system.
[0070] In an embodiment, the divider is formed by molding, such as
over-molding or dual molding. In over-molding, two different
plastic materials are molded together to produce the divider. For
example, a first, relatively rigid material (e.g., rigid plastic)
is used to mold the a substrate, and a second, relatively softer
material (e.g., rubber-like elastomer) is molded over the
substrate. Preferably, the substrate formed from with the first
material is the mounting portion, and the gripping portion is
molded from the second material. In dual molding, also known as
dual-shot molding, different materials (e.g., hard and soft plastic
materials) are molded simultaneously. Preferably, the divider is
made by dual molding.
[0071] The mounting portion and the gripping portion can be
integral, e.g., one molded piece, or separate pieces that can be
attached to each other. Any suitable means of attachment can be
used to attach separate pieces, for example, adhesives, welding,
pins, clips, or snaps. In one embodiment, the mounting portion and
the gripping portion are two separate pieces that are attached
together by a plurality of snaps having a staggered configuration.
In this embodiment, a section of the gripping portion can be
positioned between the staggered snaps located on the mounting
portion. In another embodiment, the mounting portion 405 is
provided with a groove 498 having a plurality of holes 496 as shown
in FIG. 7. The gripping portion 406 is positioned against the
groove 498 and held therein with, for example, a securing member
494 such as a pin that engages the holes. The securing member 494
puncture the gripping portion 406 and engage the holes 496 in the
groove 498, thereby attaching the gripping portion to the
divider.
[0072] The divider can be provided in any desired dimension.
Referring to FIG. 6A, the divider has a width 491, a length 492,
and a height 493. For use with cosmetic, hygienic, pharmaceutical,
and such other consumer products such as lotions, lipsticks,
cleaners, and pharmaceutical tablet bottles and boxes, the divider,
the divider preferably extends up to about 5 inches from the base,
more preferably up to about 3 inches from the base, and most
preferably up to about 2 inches from the base. For use with such
products, the gripping portion extends from the mounting portion
preferably at least about 0.2 inches and at most about 3 inches. In
a preferred example, the gripping portion extends about 0.4 to 1
inch from the mounting portion.
[0073] The tray having a base and dividers can be incorporated into
a merchandizing display case or employed as an independent display
stand to be positioned on a counter or shelf at a retail
establishment. In the embodiment where the product retention tray
is incorporated into a merchandizing display case 30, such as the
one shown in FIG. 3, the retention tray is sized to correspond to
the display areas 32, 34, and can be fixedly attached to the case
with an adhesive.
[0074] The tray can be provided only as an exposed base portion as
shown in FIG. 4, i.e., without any walls enclosing the base, or can
be provided with one or more walls. For example, referring to the
tray 600 shown in FIGS. 8A-8B, a first side 620 wall can be
positioned on a first side of the base 602, a second side wall 622
can be positioned on the second side of the base 602, a front wall
624 can be positioned on a front side of the base 602, and a rear
wall 626 can be positioned on the rear side of the base 602. The
base and the walls are sized and configured to be joined together.
In an embodiment, the base and the walls include complementary
mounting elements (e.g., slots and protrusions) such that the base
and the walls can be affixed by engaging the complementary members.
For example, the base and the wall can include complementary
openings and extensions (e.g., L-shaped members and a series of
blocks fitting therein) or snap features. The base and the walls
are preferably configured such that each wall can be snap fit to
the base.
[0075] Depending on the desired configuration, the front and/or
rear walls can have a length that is the same as or different
(shorter or longer) from the length of the base. When the length of
the wall is greater than the length of the base, a plurality of
bases can be positioned between the rear and front walls. In this
way, multiple bases can be positioned in a side-by-side
configuration. The height of the four walls can also be adjusted as
desired. Preferably, the rear wall has a height greater than the
front wall, and the side walls have a height that extends in an
undulating fashion, increasing from a minimum height proximate the
front wall to a maximum height proximate the rear wall. The front
wall can have a generally curved or straight shape, and can be
provided in any desired configuration.
[0076] A cover or a partial cover can also be attached to a wall or
to the base, such that it can be positioned over preferably a
portion of the base. For example, FIG. 8A shows a cover 628 that is
attached to the front 624 and side walls 620, 622 in a slidable
fashion, such that it can be slid along the side walls to close
over the base 602. In an embodiment, the base and the cover are
configured such that the cover can be snap fit to the base. The
cover can further include one or more openings so that products can
be inserted therethrough even when the cover is closed.
[0077] The tray can be dimensioned as desired. For displaying
typical cosmetic, hygienic, or pharmaceutical products, such as
lotions, drug bottles or boxes, and lipsticks, the tray can have a
width of about 10 to 20 inches, a length of about 3 to 18 inches,
and a height of about 2 to 15 feet. In a further example, the tray
has a width of about 13 to 15 inches, a length of about 4 to 10
inches, and a height of about 3 to 7 inches.
[0078] Further, the adjustable tray can be mounted on a back and/or
side support, as shown in FIGS. 9A-9C, to form a display system.
The display system can be free-standing or can be configured to be
hooked onto a support structure, e.g., wire structure. The display
can be a "power wing" display. A power wing display is a type of
display that has dimensions typical in displays used at the end of
an isle in a pharmacy or supermarket.
[0079] Referring to FIG. 9A, the tray is attached to a back support
701 that includes attaching means (e.g., holes), which engage
complementary attaching means of the tray. A side support 703 can
be attached to the back support or to a side of the tray.
[0080] In another embodiment, a product display tray is laterally
engaged with a pair of rails to form a modular display system. For
example, the rails provide "power wings" around the tray.
[0081] As shown in FIG. 9B, the modular display system 700
comprises a display tray 600 and a pair of rails 702, 704, to which
the tray is attached. The tray 600 is attached to the rails 702,
704 at the back wall 626 and/or side walls 620, 622 and/or along
the edge where the back wall 626 and the side walls 620, 622
intersect. The tray is attached to the rails by any suitable means
of attachment. For example, the tray and the rails can include
retention elements that are complementary in shape such that the
elements can be mated or snapped together.
[0082] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A-9B, retention elements
are provided on a surface of each rail 702, 704 in the form of a
series of teeth 712, 714 extending through a length of the rail.
The teeth preferably extend continuously along a length of the
rail, but can be provided in fragments, i.e., on certain portions
along the rail, separated by non-teeth portions. In a further
preferred example, the teeth continuously extend substantially the
entire length of the rail. The teeth can have any desired
dimension. In an example, a set of indented and non-indented
portion can have a height of about 1/2 to 1 to inches, preferably
about 3/4 inches.
[0083] The tray 600 has openings 630, 632 that correspond to the
shape of the teeth 712, 714. Thus, the tray can be attached to the
rails by moving the rails laterally onto the tray and engaging the
teeth 712, 714 with the openings 630, 632. The tray can be attached
to the rails at any desired height of the rails that include teeth
portions, and multiple trays can be attached at various heights
along the rails as shown in FIGS. 9B-9C, thus providing a modular
system.
[0084] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9C, the modular system
further includes a back wall 730 having substantially the same
height as the rails and substantially the same width as the tray.
The back wall 730 is placed between the back wall 626 of the tray
600 and the rails 702, 704. For example, the back wall 730 is
placed behind the back wall 626 of the tray 600, and when the rails
702, 704 are moved laterally to engage the tray 600, the back wall
730 is secured between the tray and the rails. In addition to
providing structure to the system, the back wall 730 can keep the
rails from moving apart sideways.
[0085] The rails and/or the back wall can include additional
features. For example, the rail 702, 704 and/or the back wall 730
can define a receiving member 710 into which a hanger or a clip
(e.g., a peg board hanger) can be inserted, e.g., by being slid in
sideways, so that the system can be hung on a peg board or a wire
structure. Alternatively or additionally, the rail and/or the back
wall can include hangers, clips, or hooks 801, or other such
structures integrally formed with or adhesively attached to the
rail and/or back wall. It will be appreciated that various other
peripheral features can be formed on or attached to the rail, back
wall, or a surface of the tray. Also, while the modular display
system is illustrated in combination with an adjustable tray, it
will be understood that any tray or shelf structure having suitable
retention elements can be used.
[0086] The display system can have any desired dimension. In an
embodiment, the display has a width and a length that substantially
correspond to those of the tray. For example, the display can have
a width of about 10 to 20 inches, a length of about 3 to 18 inches,
and a height of about 1 to 3 feet. In a further example, the
display has a width of about 13 to 15 inches, a length of about 4
to 10 inches, and a height of about 1.5 to 2.5 feet.
[0087] In another embodiment, a shipping carton adapted to contain
a merchandising display case and products is provided. The shipping
carton is configured to maintain the products in place and to
prevent the products from being damaged during shipping. The
shipping carton also does not require manual removal and transfer
of individual products after shipping, since the products are
transported as placed in a merchandising display case.
[0088] In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, the shipping carton
is configured from a blank 500, which is typically formed from
cardboard. The shipping carton is adapted to receive and surround a
merchandising display case having products positioned therein. The
shipping carton 500 comprises a base portion 502 having two
upstanding flap members 503, 504 that engage the base of the
merchandizing tray. One flap member 504 extends to a height greater
than that of the other flap member 503 so as to tilt the
merchandizing display case 30 as illustrated in FIGS. 11-12, such
that the front wall 302 of the merchandising display case 30 is
elevated while the rear wall 301 of the merchandising display case
abuts the base portion of the carton 502.
[0089] This tilting of the merchandising display case within the
shipping carton is advantageous, especially when the tray placed on
the merchandising display case has a stepped-row configuration. The
tilting offsets the difference in height of the products created by
the stepped-row configuration and allows the products to remain at
a substantially uniform height, such that a flat or planar cover
can be used instead of a tiered-cover used in conventional
products.
[0090] The shipping carton 500 also includes side panels 505, 506
and front 507 and rear 508 panels, which are folded upwards to
engage the merchandizing display case 30. The side panels 505, 506
are sized to extend upwardly and fold over the merchandizing
display case 30, without covering the products positioned therein.
The front and rear panels 507, 508 are sized to extend upwardly and
fold over to define a recessed portion 509 that engages the
merchandizing display case 30 without covering the products 20, as
well as an extended portion 510 that covers the products. Disposed
within the recessed portion 509 are handles or cut out sections to
enable a user to grip and handle the shipping carton 500.
[0091] The extended portion 510 of front and rear panels 507, 508
has a planar top surface 511 covering the products, and a
downwardly extending wall 512 that is disposed between rows of
products. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 11-14, the
downwardly extending walls 512 from both the front and rear panels
serve to segregate the products to prevent displacement during
transport. The terminal ends of the downwardly extending walls 512
lockingly engage corresponding slots within the folded side panels
505, 506 to close and lock the shipping carton, as illustrated in
FIG. 14.
[0092] Slots 513 are disposed in the extended portion 510 of the
front and rear panels 507, 508 and are sized to receive positioning
blades 514 as illustrated in FIG. 13. The positioning blades 514
are inserted between products to maintain their alignment and
prevent shifting during transport. Preferably, the blades 514
extend through the front and rear panels 507, 508 of the shipping
carton to facilitate the insertion or removal of the blades by the
user. The blades 514 further provide enhanced structural rigidity
to the shipping carton.
[0093] In an embodiment, cut-outs or windows 515 are provided in
the planar extended portion 510 of front and rear panels that cover
the products as shown in FIGS. 13-14. Such windows 515 allow a user
to view the products during transport to check that the products
remain in place.
[0094] While illustrative embodiments of the invention are
disclosed herein, it will be appreciated that numerous
modifications and other embodiments may be devised by those skilled
in the art. For example, the features for the various embodiments
can be used in other embodiments. Therefore, it will be understood
that the appended claims are intended to cover all such
modifications and embodiments that come within the spirit and scope
of the present invention.
* * * * *