U.S. patent application number 12/315791 was filed with the patent office on 2010-06-10 for container with hang tab and method of forming the same.
Invention is credited to Peter Boback, Robert Sellari.
Application Number | 20100140267 12/315791 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42229929 |
Filed Date | 2010-06-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100140267 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sellari; Robert ; et
al. |
June 10, 2010 |
CONTAINER WITH HANG TAB AND METHOD OF FORMING THE SAME
Abstract
Disclosed is a product container that includes, inter alia, a
cover portion, a base portion, a hinge section and a hang tab. The
hinge section joins the cover portion with the base portion and
allows the cover portion to articulate between an open position and
a closed position. The cover portion and the base portion are
adapted and configured to engage about their periphery and form a
product storage compartment when the container is closed. The hang
tab projects from the base portion of the product container and
enables the closed clamshell container to be suspended from a hook
in a retail store. The hang tab is integrally formed, at least in
part, from material that is scavenged from the hinge section of the
container. In certain constructions, the container is
tamper-evident/resistant and the hinge section includes a frangible
strip for facilitating separation of the cover portion from the
base portion.
Inventors: |
Sellari; Robert; (Shelton,
CT) ; Boback; Peter; (Stratford, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
EDWARDS ANGELL PALMER & DODGE LLP
P.O. BOX 55874
BOSTON
MA
02205
US
|
Family ID: |
42229929 |
Appl. No.: |
12/315791 |
Filed: |
December 5, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/270 ;
220/751; 220/839 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B29C 53/063 20130101;
B65D 43/0241 20130101; B65D 2543/00092 20130101; B65D 75/566
20130101; B65D 85/36 20130101; B65D 2543/00731 20130101; B65D
2543/00685 20130101; B65D 2543/0062 20130101; B65D 2543/00351
20130101; B65D 2205/02 20130101; B65D 2543/00194 20130101; B65D
2543/00546 20130101; B26D 1/0006 20130101; B26D 2001/006 20130101;
B65D 2401/60 20200501; B65D 2543/00796 20130101; B26D 3/08
20130101; B65D 2543/00296 20130101; B65D 2575/565 20130101; B65D
2543/00509 20130101; B65D 2543/00842 20130101; B29L 2031/22
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/270 ;
220/839; 220/751 |
International
Class: |
B65D 17/34 20060101
B65D017/34; B65D 43/16 20060101 B65D043/16 |
Claims
1. A product container comprising: a) a cover portion; b) a base
portion, wherein the cover portion and the base portion are adapted
and configured to engage about their periphery and form a product
storage compartment; c) a hinge section joining the cover portion
with the base portion and allowing the cover portion to articulate
between an open position wherein the cover portion is spaced apart
from the base portion to a closed position wherein the cover is
engaged with the base portion; and d) a hang tab projecting from
the base portion or the cover portion of the product container and
including means for suspending the container from a hook when the
cover portion is in the closed position; wherein the hang tab is
formed at least in part from material scavenged from the hinge
section of the container.
2. A product container as recited in claim 1, wherein the hinge
section includes a frangible strip for facilitating separation of
the cover portion from the base portion.
3. A product container as recited in claim 1, wherein the hang tab
is connected to the base portion through a fold line.
4. A product container as recited in claim 2, wherein the cover
portion and the base portion are adapted and configured to lock
together about their periphery by way of a circumferential
engagement means which prevents the container from being opened
until the at least one frangible strip of the hinge section is
ruptured.
5. A product container as recited in claim 1, wherein the cover
section includes an outwardly extending flange and the base portion
includes an upwardly projecting bead extending substantially about
its perimeter and configured to render the outwardly extending
flange of the cover portion relatively inaccessible when the cover
is in the closed position.
6. A product container as recited in claim 1, wherein the hang tab
defines an aperture which is adapted and configured for receiving a
display hook.
7. A product container as recited in claim 1, wherein the hang tab
projects from the base section of the container and is formed from
material scavenged from the hinge section and the cover section of
the container.
8. A product container as recited in claim 1, wherein a skirt
depends downwardly from the upper peripheral edge of the base
portion, and the hinge section extends from a lower edge of the
skirt to an outwardly extending flange of the cover portion.
9. A product container as recited in claim 2, wherein the at least
one frangible strip of the hinge section is delimited at least in
part by a pair of parallel score lines.
10. A product container as recited in claim 1, wherein the cover
portion and the base portion have a generally circular
configuration.
11. A container comprising: a) a cover portion including an
outwardly extending peripheral flange; b) a base portion including
an upper peripheral edge; c) a hinge joining the outwardly
extending flange of the cover portion with the base portion; and a
hang tab projecting from the base section and including means for
suspending the container from a hook when the container is closed;
and wherein the hang tab is formed at least in part from material
scavenged from the hinge.
12. A container as recited in claim 11, wherein the upper
peripheral edge of the base portion further comprises an upwardly
projecting bead extending substantially about the perimeter of the
base portion configured to render the outwardly extending flange of
the cover portion relatively inaccessible when the container is
closed.
13. A container as recited in claim 11, wherein a skirt depends
downwardly from the upper peripheral edge of the base portion, and
the hinge extends from a lower edge of the skirt to the outwardly
extending flange of the cover portion.
14. A container as recited in claim 11, wherein the hinge includes
a frangible section, which upon severing facilitates the removal of
the cover portion from the base portion to open the container.
15. A container as recited in claim 14, wherein the frangible
section of the hinge is further delimited by a plurality of spaced
apart notches associated with score lines.
16. A container as recited in claim 11, wherein the cover portion
and the base portion have a generally circular configuration.
17. A container as recited in claim 11, wherein the cover portion
and the base portion have a generally rectangular
configuration.
18. A container as recited in claim 14, wherein the container is
capable of being resealed in a substantially leak resistant manner
after a portion of the frangible section of the hinge is removed to
open the container.
19. A tamper-resistant/evident container comprising: a) a cover
portion including an outwardly extending peripheral flange; b) a
base portion including an upper peripheral edge, wherein the cover
portion and base portion are adapted and configured to lock
together about their periphery by way of a circumferential
engagement means; c) a hinge joining the outwardly extending flange
of the cover portion with the base portion, the hinge including a
frangible section, which upon severing, provides an arm extending
outwardly from the base portion for facilitating removal of the
cover portion from the base portion to open the container; and d) a
hang tab projecting from the base section of the container and
defining an aperture for enabling the container to be suspended
from a hook when the cover portion is in the closed position;
wherein the hang tab is formed at least in part from material
scavenged from the hinge of the container.
20. A tamper-resistant/evident container as recited in claim 19,
further comprising an upwardly projecting bead extending
substantially about the perimeter of the base portion configured to
render the outwardly extending flange of the cover portion
relatively inaccessible when the container is closed.
21. A thermoformed plastic container comprising: a) a cover portion
including an outwardly extending peripheral flange; b) a base
portion including an upper peripheral edge; and c) a hinge joining
the outwardly extending flange of the cover portion with the base
portion, and d) a hang tab projecting from either the base portion
or the cover portion of the product container for use in displaying
the container when the cover section is in the closed position;
wherein the container is made from a unitary piece of polymeric
material and the hang tab is formed at least in part from material
scavenged from the hinge.
22. A thermoformed plastic container as recited in claim 21 wherein
the polymeric material is chosen from the group consisting of
polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene
terephtalate and combinations thereof.
23. A thermoformed plastic container as recited in claim 21,
wherein the polymeric material is a polylactic acid based material.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The subject invention is directed to containers and
packaging, and more particularly, to containers and packaging that
include an integrally formed hang tab for use in suspending the
container/package for display, and still more particularly to
tamper-resistant containers or packages that include an integrally
molded hang tab which can be removed when the package is initially
opened by the consumer.
[0003] 2. Background of the Related Art
[0004] Disposable containers for packaging, distributing,
displaying or otherwise housing consumer items, especially
perishable foods, are becoming increasingly important.
Historically, perishable products had to be brought to market and
sold quickly before exposure to the atmosphere caused the products
to lose their freshness.
[0005] The advent of plastics resulted in many products being
wrapped or packaged in plastic, both in the form of flexible
plastic bags and solid plastic containers. The use of plastics in
the modern-day convenience food industry has significantly improved
the "shelf life" of perishable products, allowing both merchants
and their customers to store the products for longer periods of
time, resulting in substantial savings.
[0006] It has been found that consumers like recloseable packages,
particularly for comestible products, especially in circumstances
where more than one serving of a comestible product is contained
therein, in order to reduce drying out or other deterioration of
the comestible food product. In addition, consumers prefer to
visually inspect the food product within such containers prior to
purchase. Thus, fabricating containers from clear see-through
plastics is desirable. For example, packaging provided for bakery
goods has often been in the form of clear, plastic clamshell
packaging, because, among other things, such clear, plastic
clamshell packaging provides a baked-on-the-premises image which
grocery retailers have found to be especially appealing to
consumers.
[0007] Typically, plastic containers will include a fairly rigid
lid and base, although they may be subject to some amount of
flexure. The lid provided must be capable of properly and
effectively sealing the container, yet the container must be
constructed so that the lid is relatively easy to remove, and even
replace, since it is expected that the container and lid would
normally be reused.
[0008] In addition to the aforementioned consumer design
preferences, it is desirable to fabricate containers that include
features which either deter unauthorized tampering or clearly
indicate whether unauthorized tampering has occurred, or both.
These tamper-resistant/evident features typically include
structural elements which, when the container is tampered with or
opened without authorization, enable the consumer to easily
visually recognize such tampering so that the product can then be
rejected. Such tamper-resistant/evident elements are important for,
among other things, deterring theft and preventing the loss of
product and income for the seller, as well as instilling consumer
confidence in the integrity of the contents within the container
and confidence in the ability of the seller and/or manufacturer to
provide and maintain quality goods.
[0009] Additionally, in many instances it is desirable to display
the products by hanging the packaging from a hook or hanger arm.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,899,882 discloses a combination transparent
container and hanging tag. The container has a hinged lid and a
product-receiving base. The hang tag is of one piece foldable
material and is dimensioned to be folded at one end within the
container and at its other end folded so as to pass outside of the
container between the lid and the base walls. Such a construction
is considered disadvantageous for several reasons. First, the
container assembly is a two-part construction and therefore must be
assembled prior to the insertion of the product, thereby increasing
packaging costs. Second, the cumbersome hang tag remains associated
with the container even after the sale of the product to a consumer
and the initial opening of the package.
[0010] Thus, there is a compelling interest in the development of
containers having consumer-preferable design elements, such as
recloseability features which are reliable and easy to operate,
along with tamper-resistant/evident features that deter tampering
and clearly indicate whether tampering has occurred, and which are
also reliable without being burdensome to the legitimate consumer.
Moreover, it is desirable to provide such containers with an
economical mechanism for displaying the product using a hook or
hanger. Accordingly, the present invention is directed to
containers that meets these needs.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0011] The present invention meets the aforementioned needs, while
also improving upon and solving problems associated with previous
containers by providing a product container that includes, inter
alia, a cover portion and a base portion, wherein the cover portion
and the base portion are adapted and configured to engage about
their periphery and form a product storage compartment. The
container also includes a hinge section that joins the cover
portion with the base portion and allows the cover portion to
articulate between an open position wherein the cover portion is
spaced apart from the base portion to a closed position wherein the
cover is engaged with the base portion.
[0012] The container further includes an integrally formed hang tab
which projects from either the base portion or the cover portion of
the product container and includes mechanism for suspending the
container from a hook when the cover portion is in the closed
position. The hang tab is formed at least in part from material
scavenged from the hinge section of the container. In certain
constructions the hang tab is formed exclusively from material
scavenged from the hinge section and in alternative constructions,
material can be scavenged from the base portion and/or the cover
portion. It is presently envisioned that the hang tab is connected
to the base portion through a fold line. In alternative
constructions, the hang tab connected to the base portion or cover
portion through a score line. Preferably, the hang tab defines an
aperture which is adapted and configured for receiving a display
hook.
[0013] In certain constructions of the present invention, the hinge
section includes at least one frangible strip for facilitating
separation of the cover portion from the base portion. It is
envisioned that the at least one frangible strip of the hinge
section is delimited at least in part by a pair of parallel score
lines.
[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the cover portion and the base
portion are adapted and configured to lock together about their
periphery by way of a circumferential engagement mechanism which
prevents the container from being opened until the at least one
frangible strip of the hinge section is ruptured.
[0015] It is presently envisioned that the cover section includes
an outwardly extending flange and the base portion includes an
upwardly projecting bead extending substantially about its
perimeter and configured to render the outwardly extending flange
of the cover portion relatively inaccessible when the cover is in
the closed position.
[0016] In a presently preferred embodiment, a skirt depends
downwardly from the upper peripheral edge of the base portion, and
the hinge section extends from a lower edge of the skirt to an
outwardly extending flange of the cover portion.
[0017] In certain constructions, the cover portion and the base
portion of the container have a generally circular configuration.
Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that other shapes
can be utilized for the container without departing from the
inventive aspects of the present invention.
[0018] The present invention is also directed to
tamper-resistant/evident container that includes, inter alia, a
cover portion that includes an outwardly extending peripheral
flange; a base portion having an upper peripheral edge; a hinge
that joins the outwardly extending flange of the cover portion with
the base portion; and a hang tab that projects from the base
section. The hang tab includes structure for suspending the
container from a hook when the container is closed; and the hang
tab is formed at least in part from material scavenged from the
hinge.
[0019] In certain constructions, the upper peripheral edge of the
base portion further includes an upwardly projecting bead extending
substantially about the perimeter of the base portion which is
configured to render the outwardly extending flange of the cover
portion relatively inaccessible when the container is closed.
[0020] Preferably, a skirt depends downwardly from the upper
peripheral edge of the base portion, and the hinge extends from a
lower edge of the skirt to the outwardly extending flange of the
cover portion.
[0021] In a preferred embodiment of the tamper-resistant/evident
container, the hinge includes a frangible section, which upon
severing facilitates the removal of the cover portion from the base
portion to open the container. Preferably, the frangible section of
the hinge is further delimited by a plurality of spaced apart
notches associated with the score lines.
[0022] It is envisioned that the cover portion and the base portion
can have a generally circular configuration. Alternatively, the
cover portion and the base portion can have a generally rectangular
configuration.
[0023] Preferably, the container is capable of being resealed in a
substantially leak resistant manner after a portion of the
frangible section of the hinge is removed to open the
container.
[0024] The present invention is also directed to a
tamper-resistant/evident container that includes a cover portion
having an outwardly extending peripheral flange; a base portion
having an upper peripheral edge, wherein the cover portion and base
portion are adapted and configured to lock together about their
periphery by way of a circumferential engagement mechanism.
[0025] The container further includes a hinge joining the outwardly
extending flange of the cover portion with the base portion, the
hinge including a frangible section, which upon severing, provides
an arm extending outwardly from the base portion for facilitating
removal of the cover portion from the base portion to open the
container.
[0026] A hang tab projects from the base section of the container
and defines an aperture for enabling the container to be suspended
from a hook when the cover portion is in the closed position;
wherein the hang tab is formed at least in part from material
scavenged from the hinge of the container.
[0027] It is envisioned that the container can further include an
upwardly projecting bead extending substantially about the
perimeter of the base portion configured to render the outwardly
extending flange of the cover portion relatively inaccessible when
the container is closed.
[0028] Still further, the present invention is directed to a
thermoformed plastic tamper-resistant/evident container the
includes, inter alia, a cover portion including an outwardly
extending peripheral flange; a base portion including an upper
peripheral edge; and a hinge joining the outwardly extending flange
of the cover portion with the base portion. The container further
includes a hang tab projecting from either the base portion or the
cover portion of the product container for use in displaying the
container when the cover section is in the closed position. In
certain constructions, the container is made from a polymeric
material and the hang tab is formed at least in part from material
scavenged from the hinge.
[0029] It is envisioned that the polymeric material can be chosen
from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl
chloride, polyethylene terephtalate and combinations thereof.
However other currently existing or newly created polymers or
synthetic materials can be used, such as polylactic acid based
polymers which include impact modifiers.
[0030] These and other aspects of the present invention will become
more readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art
from the following detailed description of the invention taken in
conjunction with the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0031] So that those having ordinary skill in the art to which the
subject invention pertains will more readily understand how to make
and use the tamper-resistant/evident package disclosed herein,
embodiments thereof will be described in detail below with
reference to the drawings, wherein:
[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tamper-resistant/evident
container constructed in accordance with the present invention in
an exemplary circular configuration having a base portion and cover
portion connected to each other by a hinge having a frangible
section;
[0033] FIG. 2 is a side view of the container shown in FIG. 1,
illustrating in particular the hinge having a frangible section or
strip, and a suitable location for indicia to be printed
thereon;
[0034] FIG. 3 is a partial top view of the container shown in FIG.
1, illustrating in particular the hinge having a frangible section
or strip and projection associated therewith that extends beyond
the upwardly projecting bead associated with the upper peripheral
surface of the base portion;
[0035] FIG. 4 is a partial cross sectional view of the container
shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2, illustrating in
particular the hinge having a frangible section and upper and lower
projections or arms extending from the cover portion and base
portion of the container;
[0036] FIG. 5 is a partial cross sectional view of the container
shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 8, illustrating in
particular the configuration of the base portion and the structural
elements that facilitate a releasable/recloseable engagement with
the cover portion;
[0037] FIG. 6 is a partial cross sectional view of the container
shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 8, illustrating in
particular the configuration of the cover portion and the
structural elements that facilitate a releasable/recloseable
engagement with the base portion;
[0038] FIG. 7 is a partial cross sectional view of the container
shown in FIG. 1, taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 3, illustrating in
particular the configuration of the base portion and cover portion
when the container is closed and including the structural elements
that facilitate a releasable/recloseable engagement between the
base and cover portions;
[0039] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the container
shown in FIG. 1, illustrating in particular the operative
association between the cover portion, base portion and frangible
section;
[0040] FIG. 9 is a side view of the container shown in FIG. 1, in
which the frangible section has been removed, illustrating the
manner in which the cover portion is separated from the base
portion and the upper and lower projections or arms associated with
the cover and base portions, respectively;
[0041] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of the container shown
in FIG. 1, illustrating in particular the manner in which the
upwardly projecting bead on the base portion physically prevents
access to the outer edge of the cover portion, making it difficult
to separate the cover portion from the base portion;
[0042] FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view of the container shown
in FIG. 1, illustrating in particular the manner in which the
frangible section can be removed from the hinge;
[0043] FIG. 12 is a partial perspective view of the container shown
in FIG. 1, illustrating in particular the upper and lower
projections formed by removal of the frangible section and the
manner in which the upper and lower projections facilitate
separation of the cover portion from the base portion;
[0044] FIG. 13 is a side view of a two blade knife that can be used
to form the frangible section of a container constructed in
accordance with the present invention;
[0045] FIG. 14 is a front plan view of a first blade of the two
blade knife of FIG. 13, illustrating the position of the nicks and
cutting surfaces that can form a first score line of a frangible
section of a container constructed in accordance with the present
invention;
[0046] FIG. 15 is a front plan view of a second blade of the two
blade knife of FIG. 13, illustrating the position of the nicks,
cutting surfaces and offset that can form a second score line of a
frangible section of a container constructed in accordance with the
present invention;
[0047] FIG. 16 is perspective view of a tamper-resistant/evident
container constructed in accordance with the present invention in
an exemplary rectangular configuration having a base portion and
cover portion connected to each other by a hinge having a frangible
section;
[0048] FIG. 17 is a side view of the container shown in FIG. 16,
illustrating in particular the hinge having a frangible section or
strip, patterned sections on opposing ends thereof, and tabs
defined by the frangible section score line;
[0049] FIG. 18 is a partial cross sectional view of the container
shown in FIG. 16, taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 17, illustrating
in particular the configuration of the hinge, upper and lower
projections and frangible section;
[0050] FIG. 19 is a partial cross sectional view of the container
shown in FIG. 16, taken along line 19-19 of FIG. 17, illustrating
in particular the configuration of the hinge, upper and lower
projections, frangible section, and score line defining a tab
associated with the lower projection;
[0051] FIG. 20 is a partial cross sectional view of the container
shown in FIG. 16, illustrating in particular the manner in which
the cover portion is closed on the base portion;
[0052] FIG. 21 is a partial perspective view of the container shown
in FIG. 16, illustrating in particular the manner in which the
frangible section is removed from the hinge;
[0053] FIGS. 22-23 are partial perspective views of the container
shown in FIG. 1, illustrating in particular the manner in which the
separation of the cover portion from the base portion is
facilitated by clasping the patterned section disposed on the upper
projection or arm associated with the cover portion which is formed
upon removal of the frangible section;
[0054] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
tamper-resistant/evident container constructed in accordance with
the present invention having an additional engagement mechanism and
support structure for providing enhanced structural integrity and
further securing the base portion and cover portion, among other
things; and
[0055] FIG. 25 is another perspective view of the
tamper-resistant/evident container shown in FIG. 24.
[0056] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
tamper-resistant/evident container similar to that depicted in
FIGS. 24-25, but including a further variation of a pattern of
reinforcing ribs.
[0057] FIGS. 27-28 are perspective views of another embodiment of a
tamper-resistant/evident container made in accordance with the
invention. FIG. 27 is a view of the interior of such an open
container, and FIG. 28 is a view of the exterior of the
container.
[0058] FIG. 29A is a perspective view of another
tamper-resistant/evident container constructed in accordance with
the present invention in an exemplary rectangular configuration
having a base portion and cover portion connected to each other by
a hinge which includes a frangible section and partially defines a
hang tab.
[0059] FIG. 29B is an exploded perspective view of a portion of
FIG. 29A illustrating the region of the container proximate the
hinge section.
[0060] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 29A
wherein the container is partially closed and the hang tab has been
separated from the cover portion.
[0061] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 29A
wherein the container is completely closed and the tang tab
projects perpendicularly from the hinge section.
[0062] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a device used to form the
hang tab and tear strip features of the tamper-resistant/evident
container of FIG. 29A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0063] The advantages of a tamper-resistant/evident container
constructed in accordance with the present invention will become
more readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art
from the following detailed description of certain preferred and
exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the drawings which
set forth representative embodiments thereof, but are not intended
to limit the scope of the present invention.
[0064] Unless otherwise apparent, or stated, directional
references, such as "right," "left," "upper," "lower," "outward,"
"inward," etc., are intended to be relative to the orientation of a
particular embodiment of the invention as shown in the first
numbered view of that embodiment. In addition, a given reference
numeral indicates the same or similar structure when it appears in
different figures and like reference numerals identify similar
structural elements and/or features of the subject invention.
[0065] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the subject
invention illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the container 10 includes a
generally circular cover portion 12 and a generally bowl-shaped
base portion 14 joined together by a hinge 16. Hinge 16 includes a
tamper-evident frangible section or pull strip 18, which, upon its
removal, severs the integral connection between cover portion 12
and base portion 14.
[0066] In use, container 10 would be filled with the contents for
which consumer protection is desired and cover portion 12 would be
engaged with base portion 14. In accordance with the present
invention, cover portion 12 and base portion 14 include structural
features that facilitate the formation of a non-permanent
engagement between cover portion 12 to base portion 14.
[0067] In this embodiment, the non-permanent engagement between
cover portion 12 and base portion 14 is facilitated by, among other
things, a peripheral locking shoulder 20 and an radially inward
circumferential groove 22 formed below an outwardly extending
peripheral flange 24 on cover portion 12, which can be seated
within a corresponding mating circumferential recess 26 on base
portion 14. Circumferential recess 26 on base portion 14 is formed
below an upper peripheral rim 28 and includes a radially inward
projecting rib 30 and a radially inwardly extending rim 32.
[0068] When cover portion 12 is closed on base portion 14,
projecting rib 30 mates with circumferential groove 22 on cover
portion 12 and extending rim 32 mates with locking shoulder 20 on
cover portion 12. In addition, outwardly extending peripheral
flange 24 on cover portion 12 abuts upper peripheral rim 28 on base
portion 14.
[0069] Container 10 incorporates features which are intended to
prevent and deter opening container 10 without first removing
frangible strip 18 from hinge 16. In this embodiment, container 10
includes an upwardly projecting bead 34 on base portion 14 that
extends substantially about the perimeter of peripheral rim 28 and
is positioned to surround the outer edge of flange 24 of cover
portion 12 when container 10 is closed. The position and upward
extension of bead 34 is configured to hinder the relatively easy
method of removing a cover from conventional containers that may
resemble or have characteristics in common with container 10. As
can be best viewed in FIG. 10, bead 34 physically blocks access to
the edge of peripheral flange 24 on cover portion 12 from fingers
or any other object that might normally be used for leverage to pry
cover portion 12 from base portion 14.
[0070] Hinge 16 includes an upper outwardly projecting arm 36
connected to base portion 14, and a similar lower outwardly
projecting arm 38, which is connected to cover portion 12. In
particular, upper arm 36 is connected with a skirt 40 that projects
downward from upper peripheral rim 28 and radially outward with
respect to base portion 14. Lower arm 38 is connected with the
peripheral flange 24. Upper and lower arms 36 and 38 are joined
together by a common attachment to frangible strip 18 to form hinge
16.
[0071] Preferably, frangible strip 18 is delimited at least in part
by a pair of parallel score lines 42a, 42b or areas that have been
weakened or stressed during the forming process. Frangible strip 18
may be further delimited by a plurality of spaced apart areas in
which material has been removed associated with the score lines, by
a plurality of spaced apart depressions associated with the score
lines, or by perforation lines. The width and depth of the areas
and/or depressions can vary to control the tear resistance offered
by frangible strip 18. Alternatively, the integral hinge 16 could
be formed with a single score line or perforation line, rather than
a pair of score lines. In this instance, the single score line
could be severed to create a pair of projections which would be
used to open the container.
[0072] In this embodiment, strip 18 includes laterally opposed
grasping tabs 44a and 44b to provide a convenient location for
gripping strip 18. Preferably, instructional indicia is imprinted
on strip 18 to facilitate its removal from hinge 16 and/or consumer
understanding of the significance of its removal as it relates to
product tampering. Strip 18 and/or the instructional indicia
preferably thereon can be colored or embossed, or otherwise
fabricated to direct attention thereto.
[0073] As can be best viewed in FIGS. 11 and 12, detaching
frangible strip 18 from hinge 16 of container 10 leaves behind
upper and lower arms 36 and 38 on cover portion 12 and base portion
14, respectively. Upper and lower arms 36 and 38 extend outwardly
from container 10 and can be used to facilitate removal of cover
portion 12 from base portion 14, once strip 18 has been removed, by
applying sufficient opposing force to disengage locking shoulder 20
from within circumferential recess 26.
[0074] The presence of bead 34 prevents unauthorized access to the
contents of container 10 by making it difficult to pull cover
portion 12 from base portion 14. If access to container 10 is
desired, strip 18 must be removed so that upper and lower arms 36
and 38 are free to be used to leverage cover portion 12 from base
portion 14. Cover portion 12 may be replaced on base portion 14
after container 10 is opened. Strip 18, however, once removed, is
not replaceable. Thus, removal of strip 18 functions as a clear
indicator of possible tampering, in that if strip 18 is partially
or fully removed prior to purchase, it is readily apparent to a
consumer that someone may have already gained access to the
contents of container 10.
[0075] FIGS. 13-15 illustrate an exemplary configuration for a
double scoring blade having blades 46a, 46b, which can be used in a
punch press system or the like to form score lines 42a, 42b in
accordance with the present invention. Various dimensions of blades
46a, 46b are also provided herein as a non-limiting example.
[0076] The lateral separation L1 between blades 46a, 46b is in this
embodiment about 0.36 inches. The length L2 of blades 46a, 46b is
about 2.25 inches. Blades 46a, 46b include an offset recessed
portion 48 with a series of substantially similar nicks 50 cut
therein between cutting edges 52. The width L3 of cutting edges 52
is preferably 0.36 inches. Preferably, the offset L4 between
recessed portion 48 and cutting edges 52 is approximately 0.001
inches.
[0077] In this embodiment, blade 46a includes seven (7) nicks 50
while blade 46b includes eight (8) nicks 50. The nicks 50 on blade
46a are offset with respect to the nicks 50 on blade 46b, which
results in a desirable zipper-like effect when removing strip 18.
Preferably, nicks 50 are triangular shaped, about 0.010 inches deep
and about 0.020 inches wide, and define an approximately 90 degree
angle at its deepest convergence point 54. The length L5 between
nicks 50, as measured between the respective convergence points 54
of adjacent nicks 50, is approximately 0.252 inches. The length L6
between the respective convergence points 54 of adjacent offset
nicks 50 on blade 46b is about 0.126 inches. The length L7 of
blades 46a, 46b is about 0.1 inches, and each blade edge defines an
angle of about 45 degrees.
[0078] It should be readily understood that a container constructed
in accordance with the present invention, which is preferably a
plastic container used for carrying edible items, can be
manufactured in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be formed
from resins or plastic materials such as polyethylene,
polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride or polyethylene terephthalate
("PETE"), as well as other suitable materials which are currently
existing or newly developed or combinations thereof. For example,
the container can be formed using a polylactic acid based material,
and preferable one that includes an impact modifier. The forming
process can also vary to include methods such as thermo-forming,
injection molding or blow molding. The container can be transparent
or translucent, and may be colored in either instance. Also, vents
can be provided in the container to promote airflow therethrough,
if appropriate based on the intended contents of the container.
[0079] Preferably, container 10 is formed from a roll of PETE
subjected to a vacuum and pressure mold with plug assist. During
manufacture, blades 46a, 46b of FIGS. 13-15 are preferably applied
to a newly formed container 10 to impart score lines 42a, 42b
thereon. Cutting edges 52 cut substantially through the material
used to make container 10. Preferably, the configuration of blades
46a, 46b are designed so that a desirable amount of force is
necessary to remove strip 18, as determined by consumer trials for
example. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the
configuration of blades 46a, 46b can be adjusted for a variety of
reasons, and the above dimensions are exemplary of one embodiment
of the present invention.
[0080] For example, various other methods can be employed to form
frangible strip 18 of hinge 16. For example, score lines, nicks or
penetrations can be created with the molding tool itself during the
forming step. Alternatively, a high die forming process can be
employed where, after the forming step, the container is indexed to
a trim station, where one or more knives liberate the container and
create the score lines or perforations. Also, an intermittent
cutter can be employed between the forming step or the trim step, a
progressive punch and die operation can be employed, or a
numerically controlled laser can be employed to create the nicks.
It is also envisioned that electro-mechanical, ultra-sonic or
hydrodynamic systems can be employed in the forming process.
[0081] Container 10 could also be formed with locking arrangements
known in the art other than the tamper-resistant/evident closure of
the subject invention, such as traditional male and female locking
features.
[0082] Referring to FIGS. 16-23, there is illustrated another
tamper-resistant/evident container constructed in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the subject invention and designated
generally by reference numeral 110. Container 110 is similar to
container 10 described above except that container 110 is
rectangular in configuration rather than circular. Container 110
thus includes a base portion 114 and a cover portion 112 joined
together by an integrally formed hinge 116 that defines a
tamper-evident frangible pull strip 118, which must be removed
before cover portion 112 can be readily removed from base portion
114.
[0083] Container 110 includes embossed or raised patterned sections
156a and 156b on opposing tabs 144a and 144b of strip 118,
respectively, to facilitate removal of strip 118. Patterned
sections 158a and 158b are also disposed on opposing sides of upper
arm 136 to facilitate separation of cover portion 112 from base
portion 114. Instructional indicia can be imprinted on upper arm
136 between patterned sections 158a and 158b.
[0084] In this embodiment, score line 142b is situated on hinge 116
to define two tabs 160a and 160b which are connected with lower arm
138. Tabs 160a, 160b remain in place on hinge 116 until strip 118
is removed, as can be best viewed in FIGS. 21-23. Tabs 160a, 160b
extend from lower arm 138 to further facilitate gripping lower arm
138 and separation of cover portion 112 from base portion 114.
[0085] FIGS. 24-26 illustrate other tamper-resistant/evident
containers constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the subject invention and designated generally by reference numeral
210. Container 210 is rectangular in shape, but may be formed in
other shapes, and has similar features to containers 10 and 110
described above. Container 210 includes, among other things, a base
portion 214 and a cover portion 212 joined together by an
integrally formed hinge 216 that defines a tamper-evident frangible
pull strip 218, which must be removed before cover portion 212 can
be readily removed from base portion 214. An upwardly projecting
bead 234 is disposed on peripheral rim 222 of base portion 214.
Bead 234 is positioned to substantially surround the outer edge of
flange 224 of cover portion 212 when container 210 is closed, thus
physically blocking access by fingers or any other object that
could be applied to the edge of peripheral flange 224 and rim 222
for leverage while attempting to pry cover portion 212 from base
portion 214.
[0086] In the embodiments of FIGS. 24-25 a plurality of supporting
ribs 262a-f, each extending from about the enclosed bottom of base
portion 214 to about extending rim 232 are positioned at the four
corners (ribs 262a-d, respectively) of base portion 214 and the
midpoints on hinge side wall 264 (rib 262e) and opposing side wall
266 (rib 262f) of base portion 214 to provide enhanced structural
integrity. Supporting ribs 262a-f generally consist of multiple
elongated, arcuate portions, each having a curved latitudinal
cross-sectional profile, positioned adjacently with respect to one
another.
[0087] In the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 26, a multiplicity of
ribs 262 are provided distributed about the bottom of base portion
214 as well as about the peripheral wall 214a of base portion 214.
Applicants have discovered that the disclosed arrangement of ribs
262 about base portion 214 provides particularly advantageous
performance. Over two dozen containers were tested having various
rib patterns. However, the container disclosed in FIG. 26 exhibited
the most superior performance. By way of illustration only, the
container depicted in FIGS. 24-25, without the rib pattern of the
container in FIG. 26 may be made, for example, from a
thermoformable material such as polyethylene terephthalate sheet in
a thickness range from about 12 mils to about 40 mils, and
preferably from about 14 mils to about 25 mils, depending on the
size of the container. For example, it may be desirable to form a
smaller container from a thinner gage material than a larger
container.
[0088] It has been discovered that the container depicted in FIG.
26 can be made from a substantially thinner gage of sheet material
than that depicted in FIG. 25. A 32 ounce container as depicted in
FIG. 25 made of polyethylene terephtalate, for example, can be made
from a 25 mil sheet. In contrast, an even stronger container as
depicted in FIG. 26 can be made from a 22 mil sheet. It is further
believed that such a container could be made of a 20 mil sheet of
polyethylene terephtalate. This accordingly may result in a 20%
material savings, which can result in significant cost reduction
for making a container of a given size.
[0089] As further disclosed in these embodiments, a circumferential
engagement sealing interface between cover portion 212 and base
portion 214 is defined in part by a plurality of outwardly bowed
arcuate portions 290. As depicted, outwardly bowed arcuate portions
290 are connected by rounded corner portions 292.
[0090] Container 210 may also include an additional independent,
engaging mechanism that provides even further structural integrity,
enhances security by urging flange 224 to remain in position
against peripheral rim 222, and facilitates the reattachment of
cover portion 212 to base portion 214, among other things. As
depicted in FIGS. 24 and 25, for example, male engaging member 268
projects upwardly from supporting rib 262f on side wall 266 which
is received by a correspondingly sized female engaging member 270
defined on cover portion 212.
[0091] Thus, when container 210 is closed, male engaging member 268
on base portion 214 and female engaging member 270 on cover portion
212 form an engagement which further secures base portion 214 to
cover portion 212. In addition to urging flange 224 against rim
222, the aforementioned features increase the amount of force that
would be necessary to pry cover portion 212 from base portion 214
in an unauthorized manner (i.e., without removal of strip 218).
[0092] Also, the aforementioned engagement facilitates the
reattachment of cover portion 212 with base portion 214 after
container 210 is opened legitimately by a consumer. Container 210
can be reclosed after purchase by urging cover portion 212 onto
base portion 214, and in particular, this can be accomplished by
pressing on the corners of cover portion 212, as indicated by
instructional indicia printed in the outer corner areas of cover
portion 212 in this embodiment. In reclosing container 210, the
initial engagement of male member 268 with female member 270
facilitates the subsequent step of applying pressure on the corners
of cover portion 212, making it easier to reattach cover portion
212 to base portion 214. It should be readily apparent to those
skilled in the art that other engagement mechanisms, devices,
engagements and container designs, and combinations thereof, could
be incorporated in any embodiment in accordance with the present
invention.
[0093] FIGS. 27-28 illustrate another tamper-resistant/evident
container constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the subject invention and designated generally by reference numeral
310. Container 310 is generally round in shape, but may be formed
in other shapes, and has similar features to containers 10, 110 and
210 described above. Container 310 includes, among other things, a
base portion 314 and a cover portion 312 joined together by an
integrally formed hinge 316 that defines a tamper-evident frangible
pull strip 318, which must be removed before cover portion 312 can
be readily removed from base portion 314. An upwardly projecting
bead 334 is disposed on peripheral rim 322 of base portion 314.
Bead 334 is positioned to substantially surround the outer edge of
flange 324 of cover portion 312 when container 310 is closed, thus
physically blocking access by fingers or any other object that
could be applied to the edge of peripheral flange 324 and rim 322
for leverage while attempting to pry cover portion 312 from base
portion 314.
[0094] In this embodiment, a plurality of supporting gussets
362a-h, each extending from about the enclosed bottom of base
portion 314 to about extending rim 332 are disposed proximate the
eight corners of base portion 314 to provide enhanced structural
integrity. Gussets 362 also define interior spaces 363 that can be
used to facilitate fingers of a user to remove an object (such as a
pie, for example) from container 310. Container 310 can also be
provided with lower and upper vents 364, 365 respectively, disposed
circumferentially proximate the top and bottom of the container 310
to facilitate defrosting or heating of the contents of container
310. In the case of a frozen pie, for example, warm air can be
drawn in through upper vents 365. As air enters through upper vent
365, it is cooled, and sinks out through lower vent 364. If
desired, vents 364 can be positioned proximate the lower portions
of gussets 362, whereby each gusset can act as an air duct to
facilitate transport of air through the container. It will be
appreciated that vents 364, 365 can also operate to cool the
contents of container 310, whereby relatively cool ambient air can
be drawn in through lower ducts 364 and out of upper ducts 365,
whereby the air is heated by the contents of the container to drive
the flow. It will be appreciated that the location of vents 364,
365 can be varied, as desired. As depicted, vents 365 are disposed
in welled recesses that form ribs 372 in cover portion 312 of
container 310.
[0095] It was discovered through experimentation that it is
desirable to have gussets 362 extend as close to the bottom 317 of
base 314 as possible. This spreads out the load of the contents of
container 310 over a larger area of containers 310 when containers
310 are stacked. It has also been discovered that it is desirable
to have gussets 362 extend up to flange 375 to prevent flexure of
container 310 to prevent flange 324 from being separated from bead
334. These design features significantly help make container 310
ore tamper resistant by making container 310 more resistant to
flexure.
[0096] As depicted, bottom 317 of base 314 is generally octagonal,
and is adapted and configured to nest within the octagonal recess
312a formed in cover portion 312. The octagonal features permit
directional stacking which can facilitate the alignment, transport,
display and merchandising of goods. It will be understood that
other shapes besides octagonal can be used, as understood by those
of skill in the art.
[0097] As depicted in FIG. 27, gussets 362 are adapted and
configured so that gussets 362 can act as guides for guiding
container between parallel rails (the locations of which being
represented by axes X) of a of a guiding device to move, stack,
fill and/or close containers 310, if desired.
[0098] As further disclosed in this embodiment, a circumferential
engagement sealing interface between cover portion 312 and base
portion 314 is defined in part by a rounded segment 390, a
relatively straight segment 392 and two rounded corner portions
394. The shape of interface is adapted and configured to provide
substantial resistance to ensure container 310 is relatively tamper
resistant.
[0099] Container 310 also includes an additional independent,
engaging mechanism that provides even further structural integrity,
enhances security by urging flange 324 to remain in position
against peripheral rim 322, and facilitates the reattachment of
cover portion 312 to base portion 314, among other things. A
plurality of male engaging members 368 project upwardly from base
portion 314 disposed circumferentially about container 310. Male
engaging members 368 actually cooperate to urge flange 324 against
peripheral rim 322. This advantageously helps prevent tampering
with the container. Members 368 also facilitate in guiding and
aligning cover portion 312 with base portion to facilitate the
reclosing of container 310 after it has been opened.
[0100] It will be understood that the cover portions 12, 112, 212
and 312 and base portions 14, 114, 214 and 314 can be made of
different colored materials. For example, all or a part of the
cover portions and/or base portions can be transparent while the
rest of the container can be translucent or opaque. In accordance
with one embodiment, two-tone sheeting is used (such as PET)
wherein a dark opaque material is mated adjacently to a transparent
segment. The separation between the two sections can be routed in
the machine direction of the thermoforming machine used to make the
containers. The transition area from transparent to opaque can be
aligned with the tamper evident strip of the container so that the
cover portion can be a different color than (or transparent or
translucent compared to) the base portion.
[0101] Referring now to FIGS. 29A-3 1, which illustrate a further
embodiment of the container of the present invention which has been
designated by reference numeral 410. Container 410 is similar in
structure and function to the previously described containers,
especially container 110.
[0102] Container 410 includes, inter alia, a cover portion 412, a
base portion 414 and a hinge section 416 joining the cover portion
412 with the base portion 414. The hinge section 416 allows the
cover portion 412 to articulate between an open position, wherein
the cover portion 412 is spaced apart from the base portion 414, to
a closed position, wherein the cover portion 412 is engaged with
the base portion 414. The cover portion 412 and the base portion
414 are adapted and configured to engage about their periphery and
form a product storage compartment when the container 410 is
closed.
[0103] The hinge section 416 includes first and second frangible
strips 418 for facilitating separation of the cover portion 412
from the base portion 414. The frangible strips 418 of the hinge
section 416 are delimited at least in part by a pair of parallel
score lines 442a (top) and 442b (bottom). As was discussed
previously, the frangible strips 418 of the hinge section 416 can
further be delimited by a plurality of spaced apart notches
associated with the score lines 442a and 442b.
[0104] Unlike the previously disclosed containers, container 410
includes a hang tab 450. As shown in FIG. 31, the hang tab 450
projects from the base portion 414 of the product container 410 and
allows the container 410 to be suspended from a hook when the cover
section 412 is in the closed position.
[0105] As shown in FIG. 29, the hang tab 450 is formed from
material scavenged from the hinge section 416 and the cover section
412 of container 410. Cut lines 452a, 452b, 454 and 456 along with
fold lines 458 define the shape of hang tab 450. Those skilled in
the art will readily appreciate that the height of hinge section
416 can be increased such that the hang tab 450 can be formed
exclusively from material scavenged from the hinge section 416.
[0106] Cut line 454 is used to define an aperture 460 in hang tab
450 which is adapted and configured for receiving, for example, a
product display hook or support arm. Those skilled in the art will
readily appreciate that the hang tab can be formed in the shape of
a hook which can be suspended from, for example, a hanger bar or
other display structure. In the embodiment shown herein, when the
container is opened by the consumer by removing tear strips 418,
the hang tab 450 remains connected to the base portion 414 of
container 410. However, in certain constructions, the hang tab and
hinge section of the container can be constructed such that when
the tear strips/frangible strips are removed the hang tab is also
removed from the container.
[0107] As previously described with respect to containers 10, 110,
210 and 310, the cover portion 412 and the base portion 414 of the
container are adapted and configured to lock together about their
periphery by way of a circumferential engagement mechanism which
prevents the container from being opened until the frangible strip
418 of the hinge section 416 is ruptured.
[0108] Like the previously described embodiments, the cover section
412 includes an outwardly extending flange 424 and the base portion
414 includes an upwardly projecting bead 434 that extends
substantially about its perimeter and is configured to render the
outwardly extending flange 424 of the cover portion relatively
inaccessible when the cover portion 412 is in the closed
position.
[0109] A skirt depends 440 downwardly from the upper peripheral
edge of the base portion 414 of the container 410, and the hinge
section 416 extends from a lower edge of the skirt 440 to the
outwardly extending flange 424 of the cover portion 412.
[0110] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a steel rule knife 470 used
to form the hang tab 450 and the tear strip features of the
tamper-resistant/evident container 410. As shown in this figure,
blade element 472 is used to form cut lines 452a, 452b and 454,
while blade elements 474a and 474b are used to form score lines
442a and 442b. The remaining blade segments are used to form the
outwardly extending flange 424 of the cover portion 412 and the
outwardly extending flange 482 of the base portion 414.
[0111] Although the previously described container 410 included a
tear strip feature, container with hang tabs can be constructed
without such a feature and these containers need not be tamper
evident.
[0112] Although exemplary and preferred aspects and embodiments of
the present invention and forming methods have been described with
a full set of features, it is to be understood that the disclosed
container and method of manufacture may be practiced successfully
without the incorporation of each of those features. The scope of
the present invention is not limited only to the
tamper-resistant/evident containers and methods of manufacture
disclosed herein. Thus, it is to be understood that modifications
and variations may be utilized without departure from the spirit
and scope of the invention and method disclosed herein, as those
skilled in the art will readily understand. Such modifications and
variations are considered to be within the purview and scope of the
appended claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *