U.S. patent application number 12/830092 was filed with the patent office on 2010-12-02 for packaging and dispensing system for sandwich food products.
Invention is credited to Victor A. Grossman.
Application Number | 20100303980 12/830092 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38226944 |
Filed Date | 2010-12-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100303980 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Grossman; Victor A. |
December 2, 2010 |
PACKAGING AND DISPENSING SYSTEM FOR SANDWICH FOOD PRODUCTS
Abstract
A sealed dispensing apparatus suitable for packaging and
dispensing a single service portion of a food product. The food
product is contained within an inner container cavity formed by an
outer cover and a center member. Draw means are provided for
transferring a force from the user to the outer cover, whereby the
force peels the outer cover from the center section, thus folding
the outer cover over itself as it is removed from the center
section. The food product is dispensed when the inner container is
opened by removing the outer cover from the center member. An
optional outer container seals and holds portions of bread or other
sandwich portions while the inner container is located
therebetween. Box means holds the combination formed by the inner
container and the outer container as well as optional
condiments.
Inventors: |
Grossman; Victor A.; (Staten
Island, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Zaretsky Patent Group PC
13181 NW 11 CT
Sunrise
FL
33323-3909
US
|
Family ID: |
38226944 |
Appl. No.: |
12/830092 |
Filed: |
July 2, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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|
11825777 |
Jul 9, 2007 |
7757859 |
|
|
12830092 |
|
|
|
|
10353107 |
Jan 27, 2003 |
7240797 |
|
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11825777 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
426/389 ;
426/410 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10S 229/902 20130101;
Y10S 206/804 20130101; A47G 21/001 20130101; Y10S 229/904
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
426/389 ;
426/410 |
International
Class: |
B65B 25/06 20060101
B65B025/06 |
Claims
1-6. (canceled)
7. A method of packaging a sandwich, the method comprising: folding
a cover at a first fold to form a cavity between first and second
parts of the cover formed on opposite sides of the first fold;
placing a first food product in the cavity; folding at least one of
the first and second parts at respective second and at third folds,
wherein the first fold is located between the second and third
folds; and positioning a second food product on at least one
opposite side of the cover such that the cover is situated between
the first food product and the second food product.
8. The method of claim 7, further comprising holding the second
food product in position relative to the cover using a
container.
9. The method of claim 7, further comprising forming a container
which defines another cavity suitable for holding the cover or the
second food product.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the cover forms a container a
plurality of which are stacked upon each other.
11. The method of claim 7, further comprising forming one or more
weakened portions on the cover at which the cover separates during
opening of the cavity.
12. The method of claim 7, further comprising extending a portion
of first or second parts of the cover beyond a periphery of the
second food product.
13. The method of claim 7, further comprising removing at least
part of the cover to assemble a completed sandwich suitable for
consumption, wherein the removing causes the first food product and
the second food product to make contact.
14. A method of forming a sandwich, the method comprising: folding
a cover over itself at a first fold to form a cavity between first
and second parts of the cover formed on opposite sides of the first
fold; placing a first food product in the cavity; folding each
first and second parts at second and at third folds respectively,
such that the first fold is located between the second and third
folds; and positioning a second food product on at least one
opposite side of the cover such that the cover is situated between
the first and second food products.
15. The method of claim 14, further comprising holding the second
food product in position relative to the cover using a
container.
16. The method of claim 14, further comprising removing the cover
from the between the first and second food products to from a
completed sandwich suitable for consumption.
17. The method of claim 14, wherein the removing causes the first
food product and the second food product to make contact.
18. The method of claim 14, further comprising extending portions
of the first or second parts of the cover beyond a periphery of the
second food product.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein the cover forms a container a
plurality of which are stacked upon each other.
20. The method of claim 18, further comprising flushing the cavity
or other cavity to reduce oxygen content therein.
21. The method of claim 14, further comprising attaching ends of
the first and second parts of cover together to form a tab.
22. A method of packaging a sandwich, the method, comprising:
separating a first food product contained in a cavity from a second
food product using a cover which is: folded about itself at a first
fold to form a cavity between first and second parts of the cover,
the cavity configured to hold the first food product, folded at the
first and second parts at second and third folds respectively, such
that the first fold is located between the second and third folds,
and situated between at least one of the first and second food
products such that the cover separates the first and second food
products.
23. The method of claim 22, further comprising removing at least
part of the cover from between the first and second food products
so as to form a completed sandwich suitable for consumption,
wherein the removing causes the first food product and the second
food product to make contact.
24. The method of claim 23, further comprising moving the first or
second folds towards the first fold to open the cavity.
25. The method of claim 22, further comprising locating the second
food product relative to the cover using another cover.
26. The method of claim 22, wherein the other cover forms an other
cavity for containing the cover, the first food product, or the
second food product.
Description
[0001] This application is a Continuation of copending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/353,107, to Grossman, which was filed on
Jan. 27, 2003, entitled PACKAGING AND DISPENSING SYSTEM FOR
SANDWICH FOOD PRODUCTS," the contents of which are incorporated
herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to packaging and
dispensing systems for food products, and more particularly relates
to a single-step apparatus for storing, handling, and dispensing
individual sandwich-sized servings of food products, and a method
for the same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] There is currently an increasingly large consumer demand for
low-cost sanitary foods which are packaged and ready-to-eat. A
variety of techniques and materials have been used for packaging
various types of food products in order to provide for their safe
storage, shipping, and handling, as well as to provide for their
easy consumption.
[0004] One common type of ready-to-eat food is the sandwich (or
sandwich-type foods such as hamburgers, hotdogs, pita-sandwiches,
falafel sandwiches, gyros, subs, heros, tacos, burritos, etc.,
which will hereinafter be collectively referred to as sandwiches).
Sandwiches find widespread use in fast-food-type operations.
Additionally, sandwiches are commonly used for school lunches and
other packaged meals (e.g., in airline meals, and in vending
machines).
[0005] The bread in sandwiches usually absorbs moisture from the
sandwiches' fillings. This moisture adversely affects the
sandwiches' taste and texture. Accordingly, when moist fillings
such as egg salad or tuna salad are used, the sandwiches must be
consumed within a relatively short period of time, which is
inconvenient and uneconomical. Sandwiches which are intended to
last for several hours or more are generally made with relatively
dry fillings, such as turkey, salami, or ham.
[0006] In the airline industry, it is typical that from the time
the food is prepared by a caterer until the time the food is served
to passengers aboard an aircraft, four or more hours will have
passed. Because of this delay, airlines typically serve sandwiches
which have substantially dry fillings, and avoid sandwiches which
contain moist fillings such as tuna salad or egg salad.
[0007] A large number of moist and/or sticky products are commonly
used as sandwich fillers. Moist and/or sticky sandwich fillers
include egg salad, tuna salad, chicken salad, and peanut butter
and/or jelly, as well as various condiments such as mustard,
ketchup, and tomatoes. Sandwiches made using many of these products
require refrigeration or special handling to insure that they do
not spoil. However, refrigeration at times may be inconvenient or
unavailable. Moreover, refrigeration adversely affects the taste of
the bread and therefore may not be desirable or advantageous.
[0008] Although there are a number of prior art methods to deal
with the aforementioned problems associated with sandwiches
containing moist and/or sticky fillings, none of them provide for
an easily-dispensed, sanitary, long-lasting, fresh-tasting
sandwich.
[0009] One common prior art method requires that the sandwich
filler be packed separately from the bread. Although this method
does keep the bread from absorbing moisture from the filling, it
requires that the user make the sandwich after unpacking the bread
and unpacking the filler, which is inconvenient. Additionally, the
extra handling involved in making the sandwich increases the
likelihood that the sandwich will become contaminated, and requires
the use of utensils which may be unavailable.
[0010] Another method uses an array of chemicals to seal meat that
is used in sandwiches and to inhibit bacterial growth. The
completed sandwiches are then vacuum-sealed. However, because
chemicals are added to the food product, the flavor and/or
consistency of the food is altered. Additionally, this system does
not provide for individual selection of various combinations of
breads and fillers.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 4,653,685 to Leary, et al., entitled "Dual
compartment sandwich package," discloses a dual compartment
sandwich package fabricated of foamed polystyrene or the like and
adapted to retain therein in appealing and acceptable form a
sandwich including a hot meal portion, such as a hamburger, and a
cool trimmings portion, such as lettuce and tomato. The package
comprises two compartments, one for containing the hot meal portion
and the other to retain the cool trimmings portion. While this
product maintains the sandwich components in an acceptable
condition for a longer period of time than a fully assembled
sandwich would be, it requires a larger container (which is about
twice as large as a single-compartment container) and additional
materials, and also requires the user to assemble the sandwich
before use, thus adding inconvenience and increasing the likelihood
of contamination during assembly.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 5,312,641 to Castillo, entitled "Non-spread
peanut butter slices and method of making," discloses a non-spread,
sliced peanut butter product containing chunky peanut butter,
powdered egg white, flour, and an emulsifier. The ingredients are
mixed together, and pressed or extruded into sheets which are about
the length and width of a bread slice and about 0.2 inches thick.
However, this product has a different composition and texture from
conventional peanut butter and requires that the user handle the
product when applying it to the bread.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 6,165,521 to Mayfield, entitled "Food products
utilizing edible films and method of making and packaging same,"
discloses an edible material thin film which is applied to at least
one side of a sticky or moist food product. The food product with
edible material thereon may be used to make sandwiches, or stored
without additional protection. However, because this material is
added to the food product, it alters the flavor and/or consistency
of the food and is therefore not desirable. Additionally, the
invention does not provide for a sanitary holding means before the
food product is applied to a desired object, such as a slice of
bread. Moreover, the invention does not provide for the inclusion
of gravy or other liquids with the food product.
[0014] Thus, there is a need for an easy-to-use packaged food
dispenser which dispenses sandwiches that are fresh, sanitary and
that have bread that is not soggy. Additionally, there is a need
for a dispenser that can dispense packaged foods which does not
require the use of utensils to remove the food from the package and
apply it to the desired object. Furthermore, there is a need for a
dispenser which can dispense packaged foods (such as sandwiches)
from vending machines (and refrigerators and the like) while
extending the life of the food. Moreover, there is a need for a
package and dispenser which are ideally suited for fast-food meals,
airline meals, and meals for armed-forces personnel.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The present invention provides a packaging and dispensing
system that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art discussed
above. The packaging and dispensing system comprises a sealed
dispenser which keeps the food (hereinafter filler, sandwich
contents or simply contents) contained therein fresh and which
provides for easy application of the filler (without utensils) to a
desired surface (such as slices of bread or a plate), while
minimizing the possibility of contamination. The present invention
is ideally suited for the packaging and dispensing of sandwich
fillers, sandwiches, and the like. The sealed dispenser can be used
alone or can be used with other packaging means (e.g., an outer
container, an outer box means, etc.).
[0016] While the present invention can be used with many products
(e.g., deli meats, hotdogs, hamburgers, corn-on-the-cob, etc.), it
is particularly suited for packaging of single-serve portions of
moist and/or sticky foods (such as tuna salad or egg salad) within
sandwiches. Additionally, the present invention, or individual
units of it, may be used alone or in combination with each other to
dispense combinations of individual single-service portions.
Additionally, the present invention, when constructed utilizing
suitable materials, can be used to store foods when cooling and/or
warming them, during other phases of preparing and handling them,
and while serving them. For example, a hotdog vendor can use the
present invention to cook and dispense hotdogs (with or without the
buns) without coming into contact with, and possibly contaminating,
the hotdog filler and/or bun.
[0017] The current invention comprises an inner container and an
optional outer container. The inner container contains the filler
and comprises a center member, a holding means, an outer cover, and
one or more draw members. The outer cover has an inner periphery
and an outer periphery as well as one or more ends (e.g., a first
end and a second end). The outer periphery of the outer cover is
releasably attached to the center member so that the combination
formed by the outer cover and the center member forms a cavity for
holding the filler. The draw member(s) is/are attached to the
end(s) of the outer cover. One or more optional tab members,
suitable for grasping, are attached to the draw member. The draw
member transfers a force from the tab member to the outer cover or
from the user to the outer cover, which force peels the outer cover
from the center section, thus folding the outer cover over itself
as it is removed from the center section.
[0018] In alternative embodiments, the outer cover comprises at
least two sheets. For example, the outer cover can be comprised of
a first sheet and a second sheet. The first sheet and the second
sheet are releasably attached to each other, as described infra, so
as to form a continuous sheet which is shaped and sized similarly
to the single outer cover as discussed supra. The first sheet and
the second sheet have an inner and an outer periphery. An
attachment means sealably secures parts of the outer peripheries of
both the first sheet and the second sheet to the center member so
that the combination formed by the first sheet, the second sheet,
and the center member forms a cavity for holding the filler. A
first draw member is attached to the first end of the first sheet
and a second draw member is attached to the second end of the
second sheet (wherein the first end of the first sheet and the
second end of the second sheet when attached to each other
correspond to the corresponding parts of the outer cover). The
first draw member operates to transfer a force from the user to the
first sheet, which force peels the first sheet from the center
member (and optionally separates the first sheet from the second
sheet). Likewise, a second draw member is attached to the second
sheet and acts to transfer a force from the user to the second
sheet, which force peels the second sheet from the center
member.
[0019] In yet other alternative embodiments, the center member (or
parts thereof) is formed integrally with the outer cover from the
same sheet of material. The center member is attached to the outer
cover via one or more weakened lines. A holding means is attached
to the center member. The outer cover is folded over itself so as
to form a cavity for holding the filler. The center member is then
attached to itself and/or to the outer cover so as to seal the
cavity. In use, the outer cover is removed from the center member
(at the weakened lines). Alternatively, the outer cover can
comprise two or more portions. The first sheet and the second sheet
are releasably attached to each other as described infra, so as to
form a continuous portion which is shaped and sized similarly to
the single outer cover as discussed supra. The first sheet and the
second sheet have an inner and an outer periphery. The center
member is releasably attached to either or both the first sheet and
the second sheet so that the combination formed by the first sheet,
the second sheet, and the center member forms a cavity for holding
the filler. A first draw member is attached to the first sheet and
a second draw member is attached to the second sheet. The first
draw member operates to transfer a force from the user to the first
sheet, which force peels the first sheet from the center member.
Likewise, the second draw member is attached to the second sheet
and acts to transfer a force from the user to the second sheet,
which force peels the second sheet from the center member, thus
exposing the filler.
[0020] The optional outer container is suitable for holding the
combination that is formed by the slices of bread or other sandwich
portions (hereinafter, the sandwich halves), and the inner
container, which is located between the sandwich halves. Without
limitation, the outer container may be constructed from a flexible
material (e.g., paper, foil, plastic, laminates, suitable polymers,
or the like), a rigid or substantially rigid material (e.g.,
plastic, cardboard, foam, rigid polymers, etc.), or a combination
of these or similar materials.
[0021] Either or both the outer container and the inner container
can be held within an outer box means. The outer box means can also
hold additional items such as a drink container, a snack container
(e.g., one containing crackers or the like), and other desired
items as are common in prepackaged meals such as Lunchables.TM. by
Oscar Meyer Foods, Madison, Wis., Giggles to Go.TM. Sandwich Lunch
Kit by Venetian Bakery.TM., Northlake, Ill., or airline meals as
are commonly served aboard commercial flights. Without limitation,
the box means may be constructed from a non-rigid material (e.g.,
paper, foil-backed paper, plastic, solid polymers, or the like), a
rigid or substantially rigid material (e.g., plastic, cardboard,
foam, solid polymers etc.), or a combination of these or similar
materials.
[0022] In use, one or more inner containers are placed between the
sandwich portions (e.g., slices of bread, the sandwich halves,
etc.). The inner containers are then opened by removing the outer
cover from the center member as discussed supra, thereby opening
the cavity. The complete sandwich is then removed from the center
member.
[0023] Alternatively, one or more inner containers are placed in
proximity to a desired object (e.g., a plate or a single slice of
bread). The inner container(s) is (are) then opened by peeling the
outer cover from the center member thereby releasing the filler(s)
onto the desired object.
[0024] It is further contemplated that the outer cover may be
partially peeled away from the center member, thus partially
exposing the filler contained within the cavity. The filler is then
removed or eaten directly from the partially-opened cavity.
[0025] One method of this invention comprises the packaging of a
sandwich filler within the inner container and sealing the outer
cover of the inner container. The inner container is then
optionally placed between two sandwich portions for final assembly
of both the sandwich portions and the filler portion into a single
sandwich by the consumer, and for consumption by the consumer.
[0026] Another method of this invention comprises the packaging of
a sandwich filler within the inner container and securing the inner
container within the outer container for final assembly for use by
the consumer.
[0027] The inner container can be placed within the optional outer
container so that the combination formed by the sandwich slices and
the inner container is held in a desired position for storage,
shipping and/or dispensing.
[0028] The inner container is ideally suited for dispensing the
filling without the need for utensils, while minimizing the
possibility of contaminating the sandwich.
[0029] It is an object of the current invention to provide for a
sealed package which can be dispensed from vending machines and the
like.
[0030] It is a further object of the current invention to provide
for a sealed package which will keep a sandwich and its filling
fresh for a longer period of time than if the sandwich and its
filling were packaged with conventional methods.
[0031] It is a further object of the current invention to provide
for a sealed package for a filling or other food product without
the need for refrigeration.
[0032] It is a further object of the current invention to provide
for a sealed package for a filling which can be easily opened and
consumed.
[0033] It is a further object of the current invention to provide
for a sealed individual serving of a filling. The individual
serving which is contained within the inner container is then
easily combined with two slices of bread to form a sandwich. The
sandwich may be contained within an optional outer container.
[0034] It is a further object of the current invention to provide
for the ability to keep the filler separate from the bread, thus
preserving both the bread and the filler.
[0035] It is a further object of the current invention to provide
for a modular sealed dispenser system wherein a plurality of inner
containers can be stacked upon, and used with, other like inner
containers which hold various fillers.
[0036] It is a further object of the current invention to provide
for a sealed inner container with an outer cover which
substantially cleans itself upon removal of the outer cover from
the center member.
[0037] It is a further object of the current invention to provide
for a package means for sandwich fillers in which the package is
constructed from inexpensive materials and may be manufactured in
large quantities at low cost, is easy to open and use, and permits
the efficient utilization of the food product contained within the
package.
[0038] Additional objects and advantages of the current invention
will be set forth in the description which follows.
[0039] There is thus provided in accordance with the present
invention an apparatus for packaging a sandwich filler comprising a
center member adapted to provide space for the sandwich filler, an
outer cover having a first end and a second end, the outer cover
releasably attached to the center member so as to form a cavity for
the sandwich filler, and a removal means attached to the first end
and the second end of the outer cover such that pulling the removal
means away from the center member causes the separation and removal
of the outer cover from the center member, thereby exposing the
sandwich filler contained therein.
[0040] There is also provided in accordance with the present
invention an apparatus for packaging a sandwich filler comprising
an outer cover having a first end and a second end, the outer cover
folded over the sandwich filler forming a first portion and a
second portion, the first portion peripherally sealed to the second
portion so as to form a cavity for the sandwich filler and removal
means attached to the first end and the second end of the outer
cover such that pulling the removal means causes tearing of the
first portion from the second portion, thereby causing the removal
of a portion of the outer cover, thereby exposing the sandwich
filler contained therein.
[0041] There is further provided in accordance with the present
invention an apparatus for packaging a sandwich filler comprising a
first center member and a second center member arranged so as to
provide space for the sandwich filler, a first outer cover and a
second outer cover, the outer periphery of the first outer cover
releasably attached to a first side of the first center member and
the second center member, the outer periphery of the second outer
cover releasably attached to a second side of the first center
member and the second center member so as to form a cavity for the
sandwich filler, a removal means attached to the first outer cover
and the second outer cover such that pulling the removal means
causes the separation and removal of the first outer cover and the
second outer cover from the first center member and the second
center member, thereby exposing the sandwich filler contained
therein, a first holding means attached to the first center member,
and a second holding means attached to the second center member,
wherein once the first outer cover and the second outer cover are
removed, pulling the first holding means and the second holding
means in opposite directions causes the first center member to
separate from the second center member.
[0042] There is also provided in accordance with the present
invention an apparatus for packaging a filler comprising a center
member adapted to provide space for the filler, an outer cover
having a first end and a second end, the outer cover releasably
attached to the center member so as to form a cavity for the
filler, and a removal means attached to the first end and the
second end of the outer cover such that pulling the removal means
away from the center member causes the separation and removal of
the outer cover from the center member, thereby exposing the filler
contained therein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] The invention is herein described, by way of example only,
with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0044] FIG. 1 is a top-view illustration of a single-piece outer
cover and attached draw members according to a first embodiment of
the present invention;
[0045] FIG. 2 is a top-view illustration of an alternative
single-piece outer cover and attached draw members according to a
first embodiment of the present invention;
[0046] FIG. 3 is a side-view illustration of a first embodiment of
the inner container of the present invention having a single outer
cover;
[0047] FIG. 4 is a top-planar-view illustration of the first
embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as
shown in FIG. 3, having a single outer cover and a filler;
[0048] FIG. 5 is a side-view illustration of a second embodiment of
the inner container of the present invention, having a two-piece
outer cover;
[0049] FIG. 6A is a side-view illustration of a third embodiment of
the inner container of the present invention having a single outer
cover;
[0050] FIG. 6B is a top-planar-view illustration of a third
embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as
shown in FIG. 6A, having a single outer cover and a filler;
[0051] FIG. 7 is a perspective-view illustration of a fourth
embodiment of the inner container of the present invention with a
partial cutaway of the outer cover;
[0052] FIG. 8A is a perspective-view illustration of a fifth
embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a
two-part center member and using a two-part outer cover;
[0053] FIG. 8B is a perspective-view illustration of the fifth
embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as
shown in FIG. 8A, with the first outer cover and attached draw
member removed;
[0054] FIG. 8C is a perspective-view illustration of the fifth
embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, as
shown in FIG. 8A, with the outer covers removed and the center
sections separated from each other;
[0055] FIG. 9 is a top-view illustration of the single-piece outer
cover and attached draw members according to the sixth embodiment
of the present invention;
[0056] FIG. 10 is a top-planar-view illustration of a sixth
embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a
composite center member and a single-piece outer cover;
[0057] FIG. 11A is a sectional-view illustration of the sixth
embodiment of the present invention taken along line 11A-11A of
FIG. 10;
[0058] FIG. 11B is a sectional-view illustration of the sixth
embodiment of the present invention taken along line 11B-11B of
FIG. 10;
[0059] FIG. 11B is a sectional-view illustration of the sixth
embodiment of the present invention as shown in FIG. 11B, including
an optional blocking member;
[0060] FIG. 12 is a perspective-view illustration of a seventh
embodiment of the inner container of the present invention having a
composite center member and a single-piece outer cover;
[0061] FIG. 13 is a perspective-view illustration the inner
container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 12, as the
outer cover is separated from the center member;
[0062] FIG. 14A is a perspective-view illustration the inner
container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 12, having a
full-width draw member;
[0063] FIG. 14B is a perspective-view illustration of the inner
container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 14A, having a
holding means which is formed integrally with the outer cover;
[0064] FIG. 15 is a perspective-view illustration of an eighth
embodiment of the inner container of the present invention using a
composite center member;
[0065] FIG. 16 is a sectional-view illustration of the eighth
embodiment of the inner container as shown in FIG. 15;
[0066] FIG. 17 is a perspective-view illustration of a ninth
embodiment of the inner container of the present invention with a
partial cutaway of the outer cover and the first draw member;
[0067] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional-view illustration of the ninth
embodiment of the inner container of the present invention, taken
along line 18-18 of FIG. 17;
[0068] FIG. 19 is a side-view illustration of the ninth embodiment
of the inner container as shown in FIG. 18 inserted within a hotdog
bun, with the outer cover opened and removed;
[0069] FIG. 20 is a side-view illustration of the ninth embodiment
of the inner container as shown in FIG. 19 as it is removed by
rotating the inner container;
[0070] FIG. 21A is an exploded top-planar-view illustration of a
first embodiment of an outer container, with the inner container as
shown in FIG. 4;
[0071] FIG. 21B is an exploded bottom-planar-view illustration of
the outer container with the inner container as shown in FIG.
21A;
[0072] FIG. 22 is a perspective-view illustration of an opened
outer container with the attached inner container of FIG. 21A;
[0073] FIG. 23 is a perspective-view illustration of an opened
outer container with the attached inner container of FIG. 22 and
sandwich halves;
[0074] FIG. 24A is a perspective-view illustration of a second
alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a
box-type container;
[0075] FIG. 24B is a perspective-view illustration of the outer
container of FIG. 24A with the removable flap peeled back to expose
a common tab and minor opening;
[0076] FIG. 24C is a perspective-view illustration of the outer
container of FIG. 24B with the first and second flaps opened to
expose the completed sandwich contained within;
[0077] FIG. 24D is a perspective-view illustration of the outer
container of FIG. 24A before the front panel is closed;
[0078] FIG. 25A is a side-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 24A with the enclosed inner container and sandwich
halves;
[0079] FIG. 25B is a front-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 24A with the enclosed inner container and sandwich
halves;
[0080] FIG. 25C is a top-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 24A with the enclosed inner container;
[0081] FIG. 26A is a side-view illustration of a third alternative
embodiment of an outer container incorporating a clamshell-type
container;
[0082] FIG. 26B is a side-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 26A with the cover portion opened and including an attached
inner container and sandwich halves;
[0083] FIG. 26C is a side-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 26A with the cover portion opened showing the attachment of
the inner container;
[0084] FIG. 26D is a front-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 26A;
[0085] FIG. 26E a side-view illustration of an alternative
embodiment of the outer container of FIG. 26A with the cover
portion opened and showing the hingedly attached inner
container;
[0086] FIG. 27A is an exploded side-view illustration of an
alternative embodiment of the outer container of FIG. 26A with the
cover portion opened and including optional cavity seals;
[0087] FIG. 27B is a top-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 27A seen with pull transmitting members which are arranged
diagonally across the cavities;
[0088] FIG. 27C is a side-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 27A seen with a single pull transmitting member and a
single-piece cavity seal;
[0089] FIG. 28A is a side-view illustration of a fourth alternative
embodiment of an outer container incorporating a clamshell-type box
in the closed position;
[0090] FIG. 28B is a side-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 28A with the cover portion opened;
[0091] FIG. 28C is a front-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 28A with the cover portion in the closed position;
[0092] FIG. 28D is a side-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 28A with the front wall of the tray portion pulled back to
expose the common tab;
[0093] FIG. 29A is a partial-cutaway side-view illustration of the
inner container and outer container of the present invention, with
sandwich halves inserted;
[0094] FIG. 29B is a partial-cutaway side-view illustration of an
inner container and outer container of FIG. 29A, as the inner
container is opened and the outer cover removed;
[0095] FIG. 29C is a partial-cutaway side-view illustration of the
inner container and attached outer container of FIG. 29B, with the
outer cover removed;
[0096] FIG. 29D is a partial-cutaway side-view illustration of the
inner container and attached outer container of FIG. 29C, as the
sandwich halves and filler are pulled from the opened inner
container;
[0097] FIG. 30A is a perspective-view illustration of a fifth
alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a
tubular body;
[0098] FIG. 30B is a perspective-view illustration of the fifth
alternative embodiment of the outer container as seen in FIG. 30A,
incorporating a tubular body and a cover portion;
[0099] FIG. 31 is a cutaway side-view illustration taken along line
31-31 of the tubular outer container shown in FIG. 30A;
[0100] FIG. 32 is a perspective-view illustration of the inner
container of FIG. 7 contained within a flexible outer
container;
[0101] FIG. 33 is an exploded perspective-view illustration of the
inner container and flexible outer container of FIG. 32 and an
outer box means with the cover peeled back;
[0102] FIG. 34A is a side-view illustration of the outer box means
and inner container and flexible outer container of FIG. 33, with
the outer box means' cover partially opened;
[0103] FIG. 34B is a side-view illustration of the box means of
FIG. 34A with the cover opened, and the user pulling on the draw
members of the inner container; and
[0104] FIG. 34C is a side-view illustration of the box means of
FIG. 34B with the cover opened and the outer cover removed and
discarded, as the completed sandwich is being removed from the
inner container;
[0105] FIG. 35A is a perspective-view illustration of a sixth
alternative embodiment of an outer container incorporating a
box-type container; and
[0106] FIG. 35B is a rear perspective-view illustration of the
outer container of FIG. 35A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0107] The following terms and definitions apply throughout this
document.
[0108] The term "adhesive" is used to denote all suitable types of
adhesives, including but not limited to pressure-sensitive
adhesives, transfer adhesives, adhesive coatings, thermal
adhesives, cohesives, epoxies, and glues, as well as thermal
bonding, pressure bonding and other suitable methods of bonding the
desired materials together.
[0109] The term "weakened line" is used to denote perforated,
scored or other types of lines which are sufficiently weakened so
that a desired force will cause separation of the weakened line.
Additionally, tear strips, reinforcing cords or other suitable
objects can be placed in close proximity to the weakened line so as
to enhance the separation of the weakened line.
[0110] The terms "sandwich halves" and "sandwich portions" are used
to denote bread slices, pita slices, cut rolls, or other objects
which are placed on either side of the inner container and onto
which the filler is deposited. Moreover, when using pita slices,
the inner container may be placed within the pita slices or between
them.
[0111] The terms "draw means" and "removal means" refer to draw
members and/or other force-transmitting members for the removal of
the outer cover. For instance, a draw member may be replaced by a
rigid element which extends in any way, as desired, and which
transmits a force from a desired object to the outer cover. The
terms "filler," "sandwich contents" or "contents" refer to a
sandwich filler (e.g., a hamburger, hotdog, deli slices, peanut
butter, tuna, etc. as has been described elsewhere in this
document) or other desired object which is placed within the
dispenser's cavity and dispensed by the inner container.
[0112] The term "holding means" refers to holding members or other
means which are attached to either or both the center member and
the outer cover. The primary function of the holding means is to
keep the outer cover and the inner container in position during
removal of the outer cover from the inner container. Throughout
this document, in embodiments where the holding member(s) or
holding means is attached only to the center member, it will be
assumed that the holding members or holding means is attached to
the outer cover.
[0113] The term "tab member" refers to a tab or handle designed to
facilitate grasping and pulling the draw member (or other draw
means). The tab member can be made integrally with the draw member
from the same material as the draw member, or can be made of
another type of material, such as a rigid plastic or cardboard. The
tab member may be embossed, shaped, colored, or otherwise formed so
as to indicate its proper use and so as to enable the user easily
to grasp and pull it. Tab members include the first and second tab
as well as the jointly formed common tab, as will be discussed
infra.
[0114] In a majority of the embodiments, the adjacent interior
portions of the outer cover are either fixably or releasably
attached to each other except at those points where the center
member intervenes between them, at which points the outer cover is
either fixably or releasably attached to the center member.
Throughout this document, in embodiments that employ a center
member which is placed between and is releasably attached to the
first portion and the second portions of the outer cover, it will
be assumed that the first portion is attached to the second portion
of the outer cover. The one or more center members are placed at
selected locations or continuously along the outer perimeter of the
outer cover. Moreover, in some embodiments the center member can,
at select locations, be attached to the exterior surface of the
outer cover.
[0115] Note that throughout the present invention,
interchangeability of components is contemplated and the
corresponding terms throughout this specification including the
claims may therefore be substituted for one another as desired as
would be reasonable to one skilled in the art. For example, a first
sheet and a second sheet may be substituted for the outer cover, in
which case an attachment means must be included.
[0116] The present invention is applicable to food-storage
dispensers and the like, and is characterized by an inner container
which is comprised of a center member, one or more outer covers, at
least one draw member, and a holding means. It will be appreciated
that the filler is completely contained within the inner container
without the need for additional packaging.
[0117] It will be further appreciated by one skilled in the art
that the various embodiments of the present invention may be
constructed using different materials, such as paper, cardboard,
plastic, foam, aluminum foil, paperboards, laminates, other types
of solid polymers, and other materials of suitable
construction.
[0118] A top-view illustration of a single-piece outer cover and
attached draw members according to a first embodiment of the
present invention is shown in FIG. 1. The outer cover 30 has an
interior side 32 and an exterior side (not shown), an inner
periphery 36 and an outer periphery 38, opposed first and second
ends 40 and 42 respectively, mid fold 44, and folds 46 and 48. The
inner periphery and outer periphery are separated by line 37. A
removal means comprises two draw members, a first draw member 50,
and a second draw member 52, both of which are attached to the
outer cover 30. The first draw member 50 includes a first end 54,
an opposed second end 56, and an optional first tab 26 which is
located adjacent to the first end 54. The second end is attached to
the first end of the outer cover adjacent to fold 46. Likewise, the
second draw member includes a first end 58, an opposed second end
60, and an optional second tab 28 which is located adjacent to the
first end, the second end being attached to the second end of the
outer cover adjacent to fold 48. Ideally, the first draw member and
the second draw member are constructed from the same sheet of
material as the outer cover. But, without limitation, it is
contemplated that the first draw member as well as the second draw
member may be made separately from the outer cover and attached
thereto. Although the first draw member and/or the second draw
member may be constructed from a rigid or semi-rigid material, it
is preferred that the first draw member and the second draw member
be constructed from a flexible material which is sufficiently
strong so that it is not damaged during storage or use. The outer
cover 30 may be constructed from any flexible material (e.g.,
Mylar, polyester, other polymers, etc.) as desired, provided that
it has the desired characteristics. Those portions of the outer
cover which lie between the mid fold and the first end of the outer
cover are known as the first portion 41, while those portions of
the outer cover which lie between the mid fold and the second end
of the outer cover are to be known as the second portion 43.
[0119] A top-view illustration of an alternative single-piece outer
cover and attached draw members according to a first embodiment of
the present invention is shown in FIG. 2. This embodiment is
essentially similar to the embodiment shown and described in FIG. 1
and the accompanying text, a difference being that both the first
draw member 62 and the second draw member 64 are laterally
substantially the same width as that of the outer cover 30 at its
distal ends 40 and 42. Draw members which are substantially the
same width as that of the outer cover at its distal ends are also
known as full-width draw members throughout this document. The
first draw member includes a first end 66, an opposed second end
68, and a first tab 65 which is located adjacent to the first end.
The second end is attached to the first end of the outer cover
adjacent to fold 46. Likewise, the second draw member includes a
first end 70, an opposed second end 72, and a second tab 63 which
is located adjacent to the first end, the second end being attached
to the second end of the outer cover adjacent to fold 48.
[0120] When an inner container is placed between the sandwich
halves, full-width draw members prevent the lateral edges of either
or both the outer cover and the draw members from dragging on the
adjacent sandwich half during removal of the outer cover from the
center member. This is the preferred embodiment when using soft
breads for the sandwich halves and should be used when the lateral
edges of the outer cover stick to the sandwich halves.
[0121] A side-view illustration of a first embodiment of the inner
container of the present invention having a single outer cover is
shown in FIG. 3. The inner container, generally referenced 74, is
constructed so as to hold a desired quantity of filler 101. The
inner container is placed between two optional sandwich halves 103A
and 103B so that a complete and ready-to-eat sandwich is formed
after the inner container is opened (by removing the outer cover
76) and the center member and the sandwich halves (with the filling
therebetween) are separated from each other.
[0122] The inner container comprises the outer cover 76, a center
member 78, the first draw member 80, the second draw member 82, and
a holding member 84. The outer cover is folded back over itself in
the area that is adjacent to, and located along, the mid fold 86,
so that the interior side 88 of the outer cover faces itself and so
that the outer periphery of the outer cover is substantially
aligned with and superposes itself. Alternatively, the outer
periphery of the outer cover can be offset such that it does not
have to be substantially aligned with itself (this will be
desirable if using asymmetrically shaped center members). The outer
periphery of the outer cover is releasably attached to the center
member using a suitable sealing process (described infra) so as to
form a cavity for holding the filler. Suitable sealing methods
include thermal, pressure, adhesive, pressure-sensitive-adhesive,
and other suitable methods as are known in the art, or combinations
thereof, as will be discussed infra.
[0123] The outer cover is shaped and sized such that the outer
periphery of the outer cover covers that area of the center member
to which the outer cover is to be attached. In alternative
embodiments, the outer cover is shaped and sized such that its
outer periphery extends beyond the outer periphery of the center
member.
[0124] The center member has a height HHH which is preferably
sufficient so that the outer cover preferably does not bulge
substantially due to the thickness of the filler contained within
the inner container.
[0125] The first draw member and the second draw member are used as
a means for removing the outer cover from the center member. The
first end 90 of the first draw member extends far enough beyond the
edge of the combination formed by the center member and the outer
cover so that the first end is easily accessible to a user, and is
provided with an optional first tab 92. The first tab should be
shaped and sized such that a user may easily grasp the tab when
using the invention. The second end 98 of the first draw member is
attached to the first end 106 of the outer cover adjacent to fold
112.
[0126] The first end 94 of the second draw member extends beyond
the perimeter of the outer cover so that it is easily accessible to
a user, and is provided with an optional second tab 96. The second
tab should be shaped and sized similarly to the first tab such that
a user may easily grasp the tab when using the invention. The
second end 108 of the second draw member is attached to the second
end 110 of the outer cover adjacent to fold 114.
[0127] If desired, the lengths of the first draw member and the
second draw member can differ so that the first end of the first
draw member and the first end of the second draw member are offset
(as shown).
[0128] In alternative embodiments, the first draw member and the
second draw member are formed from a single sheet of material which
is folded at a location that is adjacent to the first end of the
first draw member so as to form a first draw member and a second
draw member.
[0129] In yet other alternative embodiments, the first draw member
and the second draw member are joined together in the area adjacent
to the first end of the first draw member and the first end of the
second draw member. Furthermore, if desired, the first tab and the
second tab may be attached to each other or combined so as to form
a single pull tab which is suitable for grasping. Such a pull tab
provides an easy way for a user to grab and remove the outer cover
thus exposing the sandwich contents to the bread.
[0130] A means for holding the inner container is provided. The
means for holding the inner container should be attached to the
center member (or, in alternative embodiments, can be releasably
attached to the outer cover itself) and should be capable of
maintaining a force which approximately is equal to the force
exerted by the draw members when the inner container is being
opened. In alternative embodiments, suitable holding means include
straps, tabs, or other protrusions which are attached to, or formed
integrally with, the center member, and which maintain the desired
position of the center member during use of the invention (e.g.,
during filling and/or dispensing). Other suitable holding means
include indentations (e.g., perforations, knurling, etc.) in (or
attached to) the center member which would enable the user to grasp
the center member. In yet other alternative embodiments, the
holding means can comprise an adhesive which is attached to the
inner container.
[0131] The holding means holds the inner container in a desired
position when the outer cover is removed from the center member of
the inner container (thus opening the inner container).
Additionally, the holding means can be used for storing (e.g.,
hanging on a refrigerator shelf), holding (e.g., when taking the
inner container out of a refrigerator etc.), and transporting the
inner container. Furthermore, the means for holding can be used to
hold those parts of the inner container which are still contained
within the two sandwich halves after the outer cover is removed
from the inner container.
[0132] A suitable holding means comprises a holding member 84. The
holding member is shaped and sized such that it can slide into an
optional opening or retention slot (as will be described infra) and
includes a locking means such as notches 116 which are shaped and
sized so as to lock the holding means into place for use, as will
be described infra. Moreover, if required, the holding member
should flex sufficiently to allow the notches to lock into place.
Additionally, in alternative embodiments, the holding member is
shaped and sized such that the user may grasp it for handling. In
alternative embodiments, the locking means is an adhesive or other
bond. In yet other alternative embodiments, the locking means may
be attached directly to the center member, in which case the
holding member is unnecessary.
[0133] The holding member is constructed from a flexible material
and is attached to the base member 104 of the center member using
pressure bonding, thermal bonding, adhesive, pressure-sensitive
adhesive, or other suitable bonding methods as are known in the
arts and which are compatible with the materials used. In
alternative embodiments, the holding member may be formed
integrally with the center member from the same sheet of material.
Alternatively, the holding member may be constructed from a rigid
material.
[0134] In other alternative embodiments, the holding means can be
located on the same side as either or both the first tab and the
second tab. In alternative embodiments, the first and second ends
of the outer cover can extend so that they touch each other and, if
desired, can also be releasably attached to each other, preferably
using a pressure-sensitive adhesive or other suitable bond as is
known in the art. In yet other alternative embodiments, one or more
center members may be combined and used jointly when forming the
inner container.
[0135] In other alternative embodiments, the center member is a
flat sheet of material and has no substantial height. For example,
parts of the center member (e.g., the side members) may be
partially made integrally with the outer cover from the same sheet
of material. The outer cover is separated from the center member by
a weakened line (e.g., a score, tear-strip or other suitable method
as is known in the art). The base member is then attached to the
outer cover, and during separation of the outer cover from the base
member, the side members are formed.
[0136] In use, the inner container is filled by attaching the lower
portion of the outer cover to the center member so as to form a
cavity for containing the filler. The filler is then placed on the
lower portion of the outer cover, and the outer cover is then
releasably attached to the center member. The optional upper and
lower sandwich halves are then placed adjacent to the upper and
lower sides of the inner container and, optionally, held in
position using an optional outer container or box means etc. as
will be described infra. Alternatively, the filler is placed on a
portion of the outer cover, and the outer cover is then releasably
attached to the center member. The optional sandwich halves are
then applied as described supra.
[0137] A top planar-view-illustration of the first embodiment of
the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 3,
having a single outer cover and a filler, is shown in FIG. 4. The
inner container 74 is shown with the filler 101 contained therein.
The center member 78 comprises a base member 104 and spaced-apart
side members 120A and 120B which extend outward from the base
member. The side members diverge slightly from each other as they
extend outward from the base member (so that they avoid contacting
the filler as much as possible when the center member is removed
from the optional sandwich). The side members have ends 122 which
are located opposite the base member. The ends of the side members
are rounded, or otherwise shaped, so as to allow a peel-stress-type
bond during removal of the outer cover 76 from the center member in
the area of the ends. Alternatively, the side members extend
outward parallel to each other or in other directions (e.g., the
side members can be semi rounded, etc).
[0138] The draw members which are used are depicted as shown in
FIG. 1 above. But, if bread or another soft substance is used for
the sandwich halves, then wider draw members or full-width draw
members (as shown in FIG. 2) should be used to provide for a
smoother opening of the inner container as described supra.
[0139] In alternative embodiments, the side members may extend
outward from the base member parallel to each other. In yet other
alternative embodiments, the side members join each other at both
ends so as to form a ring-like structure. In other embodiments,
either or both side members are eliminated. In yet other
alternative embodiments, one or more side members, or parts
thereof, may be removable from the center member. In other
alternative embodiments, a cross member is attached to the outer
cover adjacent to the outer cover fold 86, and extends between the
side members so as to provide additional rigidity to the outer
cover (especially in those embodiments which use a multipart outer
cover). The cross member can be optionally attached to either or
both the outer cover and the center member.
[0140] In alternative embodiments, the base member or the bond
between the base member and the outer cover, can be curved, "V"
shaped, or shaped in some other way that will reduce the force
required to break the bond between the outer cover and the base
member. For example, the side members may form a "V" shape meeting
at the center of the "V," in which case the base member is
eliminated.
[0141] A side-view illustration of a second embodiment of the inner
container of the present invention, having a two-piece (multipart)
outer cover, is shown in FIG. 5. The inner container, generally
referenced 130, is similar to the inner container as shown in FIG.
4 and described above, but has a two-piece outer cover 132 which
comprises a first sheet 134 and a second sheet 136. The outer cover
is attached to the center member 144 similarly to the way it is
attached in the first embodiment of the present invention. The
first sheet is attached to the second sheet using a
pressure-sensitive adhesive or other means (e.g., adhesives,
thermal bonding, pressure bonding, a weakened line such as a
perforated or scored line, etc.) as is known in the art. The first
sheet is preferably attached to the second sheet in the area that
is adjacent to the outer cover fold 142 so as to maintain a
peel-stress-type bond between the outer cover and the center member
144 during removal of the outer cover from the center member.
Alternatively, with adequate discretion, the first sheet is
connected to the second sheet in other locations. In use, the first
sheet is first separated and removed (to expose the filler 141)
from the center member, and then the second sheet is optionally
removed. In use, both the first sheet and the second sheet can be
removed from the center member without having to separate both
portions from each other. The inner container may also be used as a
plate by removing only the first sheet and eating out of the
container formed by the second sheet and the attached center
member.
[0142] A side-view illustration of a third embodiment of the inner
container of the present invention having a single outer cover is
shown in FIG. 6A. The inner container, generally referenced 150, is
essentially similar to the inner container which is shown in FIG. 3
above and described in the corresponding text, with a difference
being the inclusion of engaging tabs 152 which are attached to the
side members 154 of the center member 156. Additionally, an
optional weakened line 158 (e.g., a perforated or scored line),
which runs transversely across the width of the outer cover 162 so
that it extends to both side members, and is adjacent to the mid
fold 160 of the outer cover, is included so the outer cover may be
split or separated into two or more portions (e.g., a first sheet
and a second sheet) if desired. A filler 166 is contained within
the inner container.
[0143] A top-planar-view illustration of a third embodiment of the
inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 6A,
having a single outer cover and a filler, is shown in FIG. 6B. The
holding members are shaped such that they can lock into side
notches of an optional outer container, or can be held by the
user's hand.
[0144] A perspective-view illustration of a fourth embodiment of
the inner container of the present invention with a partial cutaway
of the outer cover is shown in FIG. 7. The inner container,
generally referenced 170, comprises a center member 172, an outer
cover 176, a holding member 180, a first draw member 174, and a
second draw member 178. The optional narrow-width draw members are
shown for clarity, and in actual embodiments, it is preferred that
full-width draw members be used. The outer periphery of the outer
cover is releasably attached to the center member using a
pressure-sensitive adhesive or other means (e.g., adhesives,
thermal bonding, pressure bonding, a weakened line such as a
perforated or scored line, etc.) as is known in the art. A flexible
holding member is attached to the center member. In alternative
embodiments, the holding member is formed integrally with the
center member from the same sheet of material. In yet other
alternative embodiments, the holding member is rigid. The holding
container should be sufficiently wide, and should be placed, so
that the center member does not significantly deform when the inner
container is opened. In alternative embodiments, the holding member
comprises a flexible section and a base section which is rigid. The
base section is attached to the center member. The first end of the
first holding member and the second end of the second holding
member are releasably attached to each other so as to form a common
tab 182.
[0145] A perspective-view illustration of a fifth embodiment of the
inner container of the present invention having a two-part center
member and using a two-part outer cover, is shown in FIG. 8A. The
inner container 190 comprises a first center section 191, a second
center section 196, a first outer cover 192, a second outer cover
193 (shown peeled back), a first draw member 196, a second draw
member 194, and a means for holding.
[0146] The first center section has distal ends 198. The second
center section has distal ends 199. The distal ends of the first
center section are located adjacent to the distal ends of the
second center section so that the first and second center sections
encircle the desired filler.
[0147] The first outer cover (seen with partial sections cut away)
has an interior side, an exterior side 200, an inner periphery 197,
an outer periphery 201, and a first end 202 which projects from the
outer perimeter of the outer periphery of the first outer cover.
The second outer cover (seen peeled away from the second center
section) is shaped and sized similarly to the first outer cover and
has an interior side, an exterior side, an inner periphery, an
outer periphery, and a second end which projects from the outer
perimeter of the outer periphery of the second outer cover.
[0148] The first draw member extends from the first end of the
first outer cover, and comprises a first end and an opposed second
end 151, and an optional first tab 203. The second end of the first
draw member is attached to a first end of the first outer cover.
Likewise, the second draw member 194 extends from the second end of
the second outer cover and comprises a first end 153, an opposed
second end, and a second tab 155. The second end of the second draw
member is attached to the second end of the second outer cover.
[0149] The outer periphery of both the first outer cover and the
second outer cover are releasably attached (e.g., using adhesive,
etc.) to both the first center section and the second center
section so that the interior sides of both the first outer cover
and the second outer cover face each other, and such that a cavity
suitable for holding a filling is formed. The first tab and the
second tab superpose each other and are attached to each other so
as to form a common tab.
[0150] The means for holding the first and the second center
sections comprises a first holding member and a second holding
member. The first holding member 204 is attached to the first
center section and provides a means for handling the inner
container both before and after use. A second holding member 206 is
provided for separating and removing the second center section from
the first center section after the first and second outer covers
are removed. After the first and second outer covers are removed
from the center member, the center sections are removed from each
other by pulling the holding members in opposite directions. If
desired, the center member is then slid away from the filler 157.
Narrow draw members are shown for clarity, and, in actual
embodiments, full-width draw members are preferred.
[0151] A locating means (e.g., a weakened line, a tab, a hinge, a
notch, a friction fitting, or other suitable locating method) is
used to positively locate the center sections relative to each
other so that after the outer covers are removed from the first and
second center sections, the center sections are held adjacent to
each other until they are separated from each other by the user.
For example, adhesive tape having a desired strength can be
attached to both the first center section and the second center
section adjacent to, and across, the distal ends of both center
sections. The tape should be sufficiently strong such that the
center sections remain attached to each other during removal of the
outer covers. After the outer covers have been removed, pulling the
first and second holding members in opposite directions will break
the tape and allow the center sections to be pulled apart from each
other.
[0152] In alternative embodiments, one side of the adjacent distal
ends of the first and second center sections are hingedly
connected, while the other side is releasably attached so that
after the first and second outer covers are removed from the first
and second center sections, the first and second center sections
can be pivoted (rather than separated) and then removed from the
filler.
[0153] In alternative embodiments, only a single outer cover is
used. This outer cover is wrapped around the second holding member
such that the mid fold of the outer cover is adjacent to the second
holding member.
[0154] In yet other alternative embodiments, the adjacent distal
ends of the first and second center sections are hingedly connected
to each other while the other pair of adjacent distal ends are
releasably attached to each other so that after the outer covers
are removed from the first and second center members, the first and
second center members can be pivoted and removed from the filler.
In yet other alternative embodiments, the first center member is
attached to the second center sections at a weakened line (e.g., a
score, perforation, etc.) and, if desired, they are separated from
each other by pulling their holding members in opposite directions.
In further alternative embodiments, the first and second center
members are releasably attached to each other using a friction fit
(e.g., a tab and a notch or other engaging means).
[0155] A perspective-view illustration of the fifth embodiment of
the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 8A,
with the first outer cover and attached draw member removed, is
shown in FIG. 8B. The lower sheet 193 is seen under the filler 157
(which is partially cut away).
[0156] A perspective-view illustration of the fifth embodiment of
the inner container of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 8A,
with the outer covers removed and the center sections separated
from each other is shown in FIG. 8C. The second center section is
held by the second holding member and is pulled in direction of
arrow WW away from the first center section. The filler is
partially cut away.
[0157] A top-view illustration of the single-piece outer cover and
attached draw members according to the sixth embodiment of the
present invention is shown in FIG. 9. The outer cover 212 has an
inner periphery 235, an outer periphery 236, and first and second
ends 228 and 229 respectively. The inner periphery and outer
periphery are separated by line 223. The side extensions 224A and
224B extend along the longitudinal edge of the outer cover between
the first and second ends of the outer cover. The side extensions
are releasably attached to a portion of the outer perimeter of the
outer cover at the weakened lines 226, and, preferably, run
parallel to each other but, in alternative embodiments, can assume
other shapes. The weakened lines can be formed by scoring (e.g.,
kiss cut, etc.), perforating, including a tear strip, or other
suitable method. For instance, depending upon the material used,
the weakened lines can be formed by the natural progression of a
tear line. For example, when using cellophane (such as is commonly
used in potato-chip packaging), a natural tear line will progress
from the separation notches to the midfold. Those portions of the
outer cover which lie between the mid fold and the first end of the
outer cover are known as the first portion 225, while those
portions of the outer cover which lie between the mid fold and the
second end of the outer cover are to be known as the second portion
227.
[0158] In alternative embodiments, the holding means is formed by
extending the side extensions at longitudinal edges 231 and 233
(which extend along the longitudinal length of the side extensions
between the first and second ends of the outer cover) by any
desired length.
[0159] A top-planar-view illustration of a sixth embodiment of the
inner container of the present invention having a composite center
member and a single-piece outer cover is shown in FIG. 10. The
inner container, generally referenced 210, comprises the outer
cover 212 (which will be described in more detail infra.), a
retained portion 214, a holding member 216, a first draw member
218, and a second draw member 220. The retained portion comprises a
base member 222 and two side members 224. The side members are
releasably attached to the outer cover at weakened lines 226 (e.g.,
by scoring, perforating, tear cord, etc.) and are attached to the
base member using any suitable bond (e.g., adhesives, thermal
bonding, pressure bonding, etc.) so that the side members do not
separate from the base member. The side members are formed from two
side extensions which are formed integrally with the outer cover
from the same sheet of material (as will be described infra.) and
extend between the first and second ends 228 and 229 of the outer
cover respectively, and the mid fold 230 of the outer cover.
[0160] Alternatively, the outer cover, holding member, retained
portion and first and second draw members are all formed integrally
from the same sheet of material. The different portions of the
single sheet of material are assigned different names to illustrate
the different functions performed by each portion. Further, the
weakened lines may be eliminated and optional `V` notches used to
direct the tearing forces along the length of the outer cover
(dashed lines 226). The forces are applied when the draw members
are pulled so as to remove most of the outer cover to expose the
sandwich filler therein while a small retained portion remains
behind.
[0161] The outer cover is folded over itself (at the mid fold) and
is releasably attached to the base member (which is formed
integrally with the holding member from the same sheet of
material--and is actually a part of the holding member) using any
suitable bond (e.g., adhesive, thermal bonding, pressure,
pressure-sensitive adhesive bonding, etc.). The adjacent opposed
surfaces of the side extensions are attached to each other using a
suitable bonding method (e.g., adhesives, thermal bonding,
pressure, pressure-sensitive adhesive bonding, etc.) so as to form
the completed side members. Optional separation notches 232 are
located adjacent to the ends of the outer cover and intersect the
weakened lines. The separation notches act to concentrate forces
transferred from the draw members to the weakened lines so as to
cause the weakened lines to tear. The separation notches are shown
as large V-shaped cutouts but, in actuality, can be any type of
weakened line. The holding member is attached to the center member.
The first and second draw members are formed integrally with the
outer cover from the same sheet of material. Optional tab means
suitable for grasping are attached to the first and second draw
members. Filler 236 is located within the inner container.
[0162] A sectional-view illustration of the sixth embodiment of the
present invention taken along line 11A-11A of FIG. 10 is shown in
FIG. 11A. The outer cover (and the attached side extensions) is
folded at the mid fold (which is actually a sharp fold and not a
gradually rounding fold as shown) and is attached to the base
member as described supra, thus forming two side members. The
adjacent interior portions of the side extensions are attached to
each other, thus forming the side members. Each side member extends
from the base member (to which it is attached) to the mid fold.
Each draw member includes a tab means 234 which is suitable for
grasping.
[0163] A sectional-view illustration of the sixth embodiment of the
present invention taken along line 11B-11B of FIG. 10 is shown in
FIG. 11B. The outer cover (and the attached side extensions) is
folded at the mid fold, and the adjacent interior portions of the
side extensions are attached to each other, thus forming the side
members. In alternative embodiments, the weakened lines can be
located closer to the interior portions of the container so that
the outer cover can fold neatly over itself as it is separated from
the side members. Additionally, an optional blocking member (not
shown) can be inserted within the cavity of the inner container so
as to equalize the exterior thickness and/or rigidity of the
package in desired areas. Blocking members are desirable when using
vacuum packaging and a thick filler. Blocking members can be placed
at selected locations or continuously along the outer perimeter of
the outer cover. Moreover, if desired, blocking members can be
attached to the center member and/or the outer cover so that they
can be removed when opening the package.
[0164] A sectional-view illustration of the inner container of the
present invention, as shown in FIG. 11B, with blocking members
inserted within the interior cavity, is shown in FIG. 11C. The
blocking members 213 are placed in the interior region of the inner
container and extend substantially along the length of the side
members so as to equalize the thickness of the package. The
blocking members may be shaped and sized as desired.
[0165] A perspective-view illustration of a seventh embodiment of
the inner container of the present invention having a composite
center member and a single-piece outer cover is shown in FIG. 12.
The inner container, generally referenced 630, comprises the outer
cover 212, the center member 634, a holding member 636, a first
draw member 218, and a second draw member 220. The center member
634 comprises a base member 642 and two center side members 644A
and 644B. The outer cover is the same as the outer cover as shown
and described in FIG. 9 above. The outer cover and the adjacent
side extension are partially cut away to view a side member and the
filler 648 contained within the inner container.
[0166] The outer cover 212 is folded over itself (at the mid fold)
and is releasably attached (in the area that lies between the
weakened lines 226 and is adjacent to the first and second ends 228
and 229 respectively) to the base member 634 using a suitable bond
(e.g., adhesive, thermal bonding, pressure, pressure-sensitive
adhesive bonding, etc.). The side extensions of the outer cover are
attached to the adjacent side member of the center member using a
suitable bond (e.g., adhesive, thermal bonding, pressure,
pressure-sensitive adhesive bonding, etc.) thus forming the
completed side members. In use, the outer cover separates from the
side members at the weakened lines.
[0167] A perspective-view illustration of the inner container of
the present invention, as shown in FIG. 12, as the outer cover is
separated from the center member, is shown in FIG. 13. The outer
cover is pulled in the direction of arrow JJ (by the draw members),
which causes the outer cover to separate from the center member and
to separate at weakened lines 226, and peel back over itself, thus
exposing the filler. Continued pulling on the draw members causes
the outer cover to fully separate from the center member. In
alternative embodiments, parts of the center member can be attached
to the exterior side of the outer cover adjacent to the side
members.
[0168] A perspective-view illustration of the inner container of
the present invention, as shown in FIG. 12, having full-width draw
members is shown in FIG. 14A. The inner container, generally
referenced 650, is essentially similar to the inner container which
is shown in FIG. 12 above and is described in the corresponding
text, with a difference being the substitution of full-width first
and second draw members 652 and 654 respectively, which are
attached to the outer cover 656. An additional difference is the
use of a hollowed-out (rather than solid) center member 658.
Optional tab means comprises a common tab 660. Filler 662 is
located within the inner container.
[0169] A perspective-view illustration of the inner container of
the present invention, as shown in FIG. 14A, having a holding means
which is formed integrally with the outer cover, is shown in FIG.
14B. The inner container, generally referenced 880, is essentially
similar to the inner container which is shown in FIG. 14A above and
is described in the corresponding text, with a difference being the
substitution of holding members 882 (shown with partial sections
cut away) which are attached to, and formed integrally with, the
side extensions of the outer cover 884 (which is also partially cut
away for better illustration).
[0170] A perspective-view illustration of an eighth embodiment of
the inner container of the present invention using a composite
center member is shown in FIG. 15. The inner container, generally
referenced 240, comprises an outer cover 242, a center member, a
holding means, and two draw members 250. The outer cover 242 is
similar to the outer cover as shown in other embodiments of the
present invention and has an inner periphery, an outer periphery,
an interior side, and a first end and a second end 252 and 253
respectively. The draw members are formed integrally with the outer
cover from the same sheet of material and are attached to the outer
cover. The center member comprises two side members 246A and 246B.
The side members are held in position relative to each other (when
the outer cover is removed) by the holding means. A suitable
holding means comprises a holding member 238 which is attached to
each of the side members and extends around the external perimeter
of the outer cover and center member. The holding means should be
sufficiently rigid so that the side members do not substantially
flex during opening of the inner container. The outer cover is
folded at mid fold 254 and is releasably attached (e.g., using
adhesive, thermal bonding, pressure bonding, pressure-sensitive
adhesive, etc.) to the side members so as to form a cavity for
containing the filler 260.
[0171] A sectional-view illustration of the eighth embodiment of
the inner container taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 15 is shown in
FIG. 16. The outer cover is folded at the mid fold and is
releasably attached to the side members as discussed above.
Portions of the interior side 256 of the outer cover which are
adjacent to each other at the first and second ends 252 and 253
respectively of the outer cover, are releasably attached to each
other at bond 258 using pressure sensitive adhesive bonding or
other suitable bonding method as discussed elsewhere in this
document so that pulling on the draw members separates the bond 258
and also causes the outer covers to separate from the side
members.
[0172] A perspective-view illustration of a ninth embodiment of the
inner container of the present invention with a partial cutaway of
the outer cover and the first draw member is shown in FIG. 17. The
inner container, generally referenced 600, is essentially similar
to the inner container which is shown in FIG. 3 above, and which is
described in the corresponding text, with a difference being the
use of an asymmetric center member rather than a symmetric or
substantially symmetric one. This embodiment is particularly
suitable for long items (e.g., hotdogs and the like) which are
placed within an opened bun in which each of the two sandwich
portions are connected to each other (as opposed to buns or other
types of bread or rolls in which each sandwich portion is fully
separated from the other). The center member 602 comprises a first
side member 604, a second side member 606, and a base member 608.
The first side member has a height HH and a length LL. The second
side member has a height H and a length L. Heights H and HH are not
equal to each other, so as to result in the inner container being
wedge-shaped (when viewed from the side member ends to the base
member as shown in FIG. 18 below). Additionally, lengths L and LL
are not equal to each other, so that the outer cover 610 can be
releasably attached to the center member without having to bend or
fold the outer cover. Alternatively, the outer cover can be folded
and attached to itself as desired. The base member is attached to
both the first side member and the second side member. In
alternative embodiments, the length of the first side member is
substantially the same as the length of the second side member.
[0173] The outer cover is shaped and sized such that its outer
periphery can be releasably attached to the center member (e.g., as
shown the outer cover has a slight V-bend which is centered on the
mid fold). A first draw member 612 and a second draw member 614 are
attached to the outer cover. The first tab of the first draw member
and the second tab of the second draw member are attached to each
other so as to form an optional common tab 616. A filler (e.g., a
hotdog as shown) 618 is contained within the inner container. A
holding means comprising a holding member 620 is attached to the
base member. The inner container is optionally heat stable and can
be placed in an oven or other suitable device to cook or warm the
filler if so desired. Additionally, the side members and/or the
outer cover can be made from an optional transparent material so
that the user can view the filler if so desired. In alternative
embodiments, the inner container includes an optional weakened area
or line which opens to release excess pressure when heating the
inner container.
[0174] A cross-sectional-view illustration of the ninth embodiment
of the inner container of the present invention, taken along line
18-18 of FIG. 17, is shown in FIG. 18. The inner container is
shaped so that it can be at least partially inserted into an opened
hotdog bun 622 as shown. The first side member has a height H and
the second side member has a height HH. Heights H and HH are
unequal, so as to result in the inner container being wedge-shaped.
The filler (e.g., the hotdog) is contained within the inner
container.
[0175] A side-view illustration of the ninth embodiment of the
inner container inserted within a hotdog bun, with the outer cover
opened and removed, is shown in FIG. 19. The hotdog bun is
optionally held with the open side facing up such that the filler
(hotdog) contained within falls into the bun when the outer cover
of the inner container is removed as shown.
[0176] A side-view illustration of the ninth embodiment of the
inner container as shown in FIG. 19 as it is removed by rotating
the inner container is shown in FIG. 20. In this embodiment, the
center member has rigid side members, allowing the center member to
be rotated about its longitudinal axis (such as in direction R) and
then removed from the filler and the bun by pulling in direction RR
after the outer cover is removed. Alternatively, the inner
container can be removed from the bun by pulling the inner
container and the combination formed by the filler and the bun in a
direction which is either parallel to, or substantially parallel
to, the longitudinal axis of the inner container as shown and
described elsewhere in this document.
[0177] An exploded top-planar-view illustration of a first
embodiment of an outer container, with the inner container as shown
in FIG. 4 above, is shown in FIG. 21A. The outer container 270 is a
pop-open box which is common in the art, and is shown folded flat.
The outer container is formed from a unitary blank of a semi-rigid
material (e.g., cardboard, treated-paper, plastic, solid polymers,
laminates, etc.) and includes a first side panel 272, a second side
panel 274, a bottom panel 276, and side panels 278. The bottom
panel is symmetrically folded about the bottom fold 280, and
terminates at the first fold 282 which is adjacent to the first
side panel, and on the other side terminates at the second fold
(which is superposed by the first fold 282 and is shown as 283 in
FIG. 21B infra), which is adjacent to the second side panel. An
optional retention slot 284 is provided to retain the holding
member 84 by engaging the notches 116 of the holding member.
Alternatively, retention slots can be located adjacent to the side
fold and retain holding members which are located on the side
members of the center member as shown elsewhere in this document.
Alternatively, adhesive or other suitable bonding method can be
used to attach the inner container to the outer container.
[0178] The side panels of the outer container include side folds
286. The side panels are folded about their side folds and
terminate on one side at the first fold 288 which is adjacent to
the first side panel, and on the other side, at the second fold
290, which is adjacent to the second side panel. The side panels
further include a side portion bottom 292 which is optionally cut
so that the outer container remains upright if placed in an upright
position and a side panel top 300, both of which extend from the
first fold to the second fold and are folded about the side fold
286. The first side panel has a free edge 294 which extends between
the first folds 288, and has an indentation which extends toward
the first fold. Likewise, the second side panel has a free edge 296
which extends between the first folds, and has an indentation which
extends toward the bottom panel. Alternatively, either or both of
the free edges can be shaped as desired. The outer container has an
opening which is located opposite the bottom panel, and which is
defined by the free edges 294 and 296 of the first side panel and
the second side panel respectively, and the side panel top 300 of
the side panels 278. The outer container should be sized such that
it holds the sandwich halves tightly and prevents the sandwich
halves from moving when the outer cover is removed from the center
member. Each second fold 290 extends from the adjacent side panel
top to the side panel bottom, running substantially parallel to the
adjacent first fold.
[0179] The inner container 74 is similar to the inner container
which is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, and is shown with narrow draw
members for illustrative purposes only. The outer container
receives and retains the inner container. The holding member 84 of
the inner container is received by and held in place by a retention
slot 284 which engages the notches 116 of the inner container. In
alternative embodiments, an optional adhesive (e.g., heat bonding,
etc.) can be used to attach the inner container to the outer
container. In alternative embodiments the holding members may
extend around the exterior portions of the outer container.
[0180] In one method of use, the inner container is filled and then
inserted into the opening of the outer container so that the
holding member slides into and engages the retention slot so that
the inner container is firmly attached to the outer container. The
outer container is then unfolded and the bottom panel is firmly
positioned to hold the outer container in the opened position.
Sandwich halves are then placed on either or both sides of the
inner container and are held in position by the outer
container.
[0181] An exploded bottom-planar-view illustration of the outer
container with the inner container as shown in FIG. 21A above, is
shown in FIG. 21B. Both the outer container 270 and the inner
container have been reversed so that the opposite sides are
shown.
[0182] A perspective-view illustration of an opened outer container
with the attached inner container of FIG. 21A is seen in FIG. 22.
The inner container contains a filler 101. In use, the inner
container may be removed and opened, so that the filler is
dispensed. Alternatively, sandwich halves can be inserted on either
or both sides of the inner container so as to form a complete,
ready-to-eat sandwich after removal of the outer cover.
[0183] A perspective-view illustration of an opened outer container
with the attached inner container of FIG. 22 and sandwich halves is
seen in FIG. 23. In use, the user holds the outer container and
pulls the tabs of the draw members in a direction opposite that of
the bottom panel, which causes the outer cover to peel away and
separate from the center member, thus forming a complete,
ready-to-eat sandwich which is removed from the outer container
before consumption.
[0184] A perspective-view illustration of a second alternative
embodiment of an outer container incorporating a box-type container
is shown FIG. 24A. The outer container 700 is a box-type outer
container which comprises a body portion 708 and a front portion
720, and is constructed from a unitary blank of a semi-rigid
material (e.g., cardboard, treated-paper, paperboard,
polypropylene, or foamed or other types of solid polymers,
plastics, laminates, etc.). The body portion comprises a top panel
710, a bottom panel, side panels 712, a rear panel, and a cavity.
The front portion comprises a first flap 704, a second flap 706, a
third flap (which is located directly behind the second flap), a
removable flap 702, and optional side flaps. The inner container
and sandwich halves are contained within the outer container. The
removable flap is constructed from the same sheet of material as
the outer container and is connected to the first and second flaps
via weakened lines 724 (e.g. perforated, scored, adhesives, etc.).
Alternatively, the removable flap is constructed from a separate
sheet of material and is releasably bonded to the body portion to
seal the cavity. The removable flap further comprises a removal tab
718 which is suitable for grasping.
[0185] A perspective-view illustration of the outer container of
FIG. 24A with the removable flap peeled back to expose a common tab
and a minor opening is shown in FIG. 24B. The removable flap is
removed to reveal a minor opening which is located on the front
portion and is defined by the inner perimeter of the opening formed
by the first flap, the second flap, and the side flaps 726. The
minor opening should be large enough so that the outer cover 740
can pass through it without requiring undue force when the inner
container 738 is opened, but should be small enough so that the
sandwich halves are contained within the cavity of the outer
container as the outer cover is removed. Peeling back and removing
the removable flap further exposes the common tab 730, the inner
container, and the side flaps. The side flaps and the first and
second flaps remain in the closed position until after the outer
cover is removed from the inner container. Portions of the first
and second flaps which face the side flaps are optionally
releasably attached to each other using an adhesive or other
suitable bond. If desired, an optional weakened line 725 (shown as
a semicircle for clarity but which can be shaped as desired) can be
placed on either or both the top panel and the side panels. The top
panel can thus be fully or partially separated at the weakened line
and peeled back over itself which would provide better access to
the sandwich contained within the body portion. In alternative
embodiments, only the body portion is used without the front
portion.
[0186] A perspective-view illustration of the outer container of
FIG. 24B with the first and second flaps opened to expose the
completed sandwich contained within is shown in FIG. 24C. After the
removable flap and outer cover have been removed, the first flap,
the second flap, and the side flaps are opened and folded back to
expose the completed sandwich contained within the cavity. The top
portion (with the attached first flap) can be peeled back and
partially or fully separated at the weakened line 725 to provide
better access to the sandwich contained within the body portion.
The user can then remove the completed sandwich from the inner and
outer container by reaching into the cavity of the outer container
and grasping the sandwich halves and pulling them away from both
the inner container and the outer container. The center member is
shown slightly separated from the side panels for clarity. In
alternative embodiments, the center member is in contact with the
side panels.
[0187] A perspective-view illustration of the outer container of
FIG. 24A before the front panel is closed is shown in FIG. 24D.
When sealing the package, the side flaps are closed first, after
which the bottom flap is closed. The combination formed by the
first flap, the removable flap, and the second flap is then closed.
The second flap 706 is then attached to the adjacent third flap
using an adhesive or other suitable bond so as to form a composite
second flap. The combination formed by the attached second and
third flaps is collectively referred to as the second flap.
[0188] The third flap is sized similarly to the second flap, but
may be larger or smaller than the second flap if desired. The first
and second flaps are sized such that they retain the sandwich
halves in position when the outer cover is removed from the inner
container. Additionally, the first and second flaps (as well as the
optional side flaps) should not interfere with the movement of the
outer cover as it is being removed from the inner container.
[0189] A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A
with the enclosed inner container and sandwich halves is shown in
FIG. 25A. A side panel has been removed for clarity. The inner
container is located between the sandwich halves 742 within the
outer container cavity. The holding means comprises a holding
member 736 which is attached to the body portion using an adhesive
or other suitable method (e.g., locking tabs, etc.). The
proportions of the inner container and the outer container should
be such that the sandwich halves are held adjacent to the inner
container and do not move excessively when the unopened outer
container is handled. The optional common tab is contained within
the outer container cavity and is resilient so that it extends
beyond the perimeter of the outer container when the removable flap
is removed. A filler 734 is contained within the inner container.
In alternative embodiments, the side flaps can have cutouts which
allow for the outer cover to be removed without undue friction. In
yet other alternative embodiments, the front portion can be
attached to the body portion using weakened lines which extend from
the front portion to the side panels, in which case the side flaps
are optional.
[0190] A front-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A
with the enclosed inner container and sandwich halves is shown in
FIG. 25B. The front portion has been removed for clarity. The inner
container is seen between the sandwich halves and is contained
within the outer container's cavity. The common tab is centrally
located.
[0191] A top-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 24A
with the enclosed inner container is shown in FIG. 25C. The top
panel and the adjacent sandwich half have been removed for clarity.
The holding member extends substantially around the inner container
so that the inner container is positively attached to the outer
container. Optional narrow-width draw members are shown for
illustration only.
[0192] A side-view illustration of a third alternative embodiment
of an outer container incorporating a clamshell-type container is
shown FIG. 26A. The outer container, generally referenced 750, is
generally square in shape, and is formed from a unitary blank of
material (e.g., polypropylene, foamed or other types of polymers,
paper, foils, laminates, or other suitable material). The outer
container has a tray portion 752 and a cover portion 754. The tray
portion is hingedly attached to the cover portion at hinge 780. A
locking means is incorporated to seal the cover portion to the tray
portion. Suitable locking means include, without limitation, tabs
and/or interference fits as are common in the art. The cover
portion comprises a top panel 756, a front panel 758, a rear panel
760, two side panels 762, a first rim, and a first cavity. The tray
portion comprises a bottom panel 764, a front panel 766, a rear
panel 768, two side panels 770, a second rim, and a second cavity.
The combined sizes of the top cavity and the bottom cavity should
be great enough to hold the inner container and sandwich halves but
not so great that the sandwich halves and the inner container move
around unnecessarily during handling. The first cavity is defined
by the top panel, the front panel, the rear panel, and the side
panel of the cover portion. The second cavity is defined by the
bottom panel, the front panel, the rear panel, and the side panels
of the bottom portion. The inner container is flexibly attached via
the holding means to the outer container. Suitable holding members
include flexible members and hinges as described elsewhere in this
document. For example, a suitable holding member comprises a
flexible member with a pair of notches which is attached to the
hinge. The inner container is attached to the outer container
either before or after the sandwich half is inserted into the
second cavity. The inner container is described elsewhere in this
document.
[0193] Clamshell-type containers are well-known in the art. See,
for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,131,551, to Wells, entitled "One-piece
merchandising container," U.S. Pat. No. 4,653,685, to Leary, et
al., entitled "Dual compartment sandwich package," and U.S. Pat.
No. 4,132,344, to Jewell, entitled "Foam sandwich package," all of
which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
[0194] A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 26A
with the cover portion opened and including an attached inner
container and sandwich halves is shown in FIG. 26B. The first rim
782 and second rim 786 define the opening to their respective
cavities, and are fitted with optional flanges which are suitable
for friction fitting the cover portion and the tray portion
together in the closed position. An optional common tab 772
protrudes beyond the perimeter of the outer container so that it
can be easily grasped. The inner container is between the sandwich
halves 774.
[0195] A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 26A
with the cover portion opened showing the attachment of the inner
container is shown in FIG. 26C. The sandwich halves are inserted
within the first and the second cavities. The inner container 776
is flexibly attached to the outer container (using a flexible
holding member 778) so that the completed sandwich can be removed
from the combination formed by the inner container and the outer
container after the outer cover is removed. The inner container can
optionally fit within the second cavity so that the completed
sandwich can be stored above the inner container and so that the
outer container with the attached inner container may be stacked
prior to inserting the sandwich halves.
[0196] A front-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 26A
is shown in FIG. 26D. The optional common tab is centrally located.
In use, the cover portion is partially opened to expose the common
tab. The outer cover is then removed by pulling on the common tab
with one hand while the other hand holds the outer container in
place. During removal of the outer cover, the cover portion and the
tray portion keep the sandwich halves in position relative to each
other and to the filler. After removal of the outer cover, the
cover portion is fully opened and the completed sandwich is removed
from the center member and the outer container. The center member
then optionally falls to the bottom of the second container so that
the completed sandwich can be partially placed within the second
cavity during consumption by the user.
[0197] A side-view illustration of an alternative embodiment of the
outer container of FIG. 26A with the cover portion opened and
showing the hingedly-attached inner container is shown in FIG. 26E.
This embodiment is similar to the inner container as shown in FIGS.
26A through 26D and described above, but uses an inner container
which is rotated so that it is flexibly attached to the outer
container at a location which is adjacent to the front panel 766
using a flexible holding member 763 so that the completed sandwich
can be removed from the combination formed by the inner container
and the outer container after the outer cover is removed. The inner
container can optionally fit within the second cavity so that the
completed sandwich can be stored above the inner container and so
that the outer container with the attached inner container may be
stacked prior to inserting the sandwich halves. The inner container
is rotated in the direction of arrow YYY and placed between the
sandwich halves. The optional common tab is located proximate to
the hinge 780. The center member of the inner container can be
optionally formed integrally with the outer container from the same
sheet of material. This embodiment is suitable for vacuum-formed
containers which are made from a semi-rigid material (e.g.,
polyethylene, polymers, or other suitable materials).
[0198] An exploded side-view illustration of an alternative
embodiment of the outer container of FIG. 26A with the cover
portion opened and including optional cavity seals is shown in FIG.
27A. This embodiment is suitable for warming the contents of the
inner container (e.g., the filler) using heat lamps as is common in
fast-food establishments. The first and second cavity seals 790 and
792 cover the first and second cavities, respectively. The cavity
seals comprise one or more tightly-fitting flexible sheets of
material (e.g., cellophane, mylar, polyester, etc.) which are
releasably attached to the rims (751 and 753) of the cover portion
and the tray portion respectively, so that the moistness (and
cleanliness) of the sandwich halves contained within the first and
second cavities is maintained during heating (and storage, if
desired). Optional pull transmitting members 793 and 795 are
attached to the cavity seals and transmit a force from the user to
the attached cavity seal, which force separates and removes the
cavity seals from the rim to which they are attached. The pull
transmitting members include a first end and a second end. The
first end of each pull transmitting member includes a tab 797 which
is suitable for grasping, while the second end of each pull
transmitting member is attached to the outer periphery of the
adjacent cavity seal. The pull transmitting members optionally
extend diagonally across the cavity seal so that only a small
portion of the cavity seal is separated from the body or cover
portion when the cavity seals are opened initially, thus reducing
the force necessary to separate and remove the cavity seals from
the outer container. In alternative embodiments, only a single pull
transmitting member is used. In other alternative embodiments, the
pull transmitting members are attached to each other. In yet
further alternative embodiments, the pull transmitting member(s)
are formed integrally with the cavity seals from the same sheet of
material.
[0199] In alternative embodiments, a heat pad like that disclosed
in U.S. Pat. No. 4,522,190, to Kuhn, et al., entitled "Flexible
electrochemical heater," can be placed proximate to, or
incorporated into, the inner container and can be activated before
use of the current invention, thus providing a portable heated
meal.
[0200] The inner container 776 (seen behind the partial cutaway
view of the side panel 770) should fit flush (below the rim) of the
second cavity in which it is placed, so that the second cavity seal
fits flush over the opening of the cavity. The cavity seals are
peeled off the tray portion and the cover portion before
consumption. Alternatively, a single cavity seal may be used to
seal both the first cavity and the second cavity. Suitable methods
of releasably attaching the cavity seal to the container include
thermal bonding, pressure bonding, adhesive bonding, or other
suitable methods of bonding. Alternatively, the cavity seal
comprises a semi-flexible sheet of material (e.g., polypropylene,
paper, foam, or other types of polymers, etc.) which is slidably
engaged with a flange around the entire outer container or with the
flange around each rim. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,213,256,
to Cyr, entitled "Container Assembly Having a Removable
Insert/Divider," incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
In yet other alternative embodiments, the cavity seal comprises a
semi-flexible sheet of material (e.g., polypropylene) which is
molded and friction fit to a flange (or other suitable member) of
the cover portion and tray portion. If using a molded cavity seal,
then the inner container does not have to fit flush within the
cavity in which it is placed.
[0201] The cavity seal and outer cover are made from a clear or
translucent material so that the customer can view the sandwich
halves and filler before purchase, if desired. Alternatively, the
opacity of the cavity seal and/or the outer cover can vary (e.g.,
the cavity seal can be reflective or opaque). For example, the
first cavity seal can be made from a reflective material to reflect
heat while the second cavity seal and the outer cover of the inner
container can be made of a clear material to transmit heat and
allow the user to view the filler contained within the inner
container. In order to provide for a hermetic seal of the second
cavity, the holding member 773 is optionally attached to the rear
panel so that it is contained entirely within the interior of the
second cavity.
[0202] In use, the cover portion is partially closed, the cavity
seals are removed to expose the common tab (or other tab means),
and the outer cover is removed from the inner container as
described elsewhere in this document. In alternative embodiments,
the cavity seals can be removed either when the clamshell is closed
or opened.
[0203] In alternative embodiments, the common tab extends through a
slot provided in the front panel. The slot should be shaped and
sized such that the outer cover can be pulled through the slot when
opening the inner container. The common tab is optionally
releasably attached to the front panel so as to seal the slot in
the second cavity. In use, the cover portion is folded upon the
tray portion before the cover portions and the outer cover are
removed from the inner container.
[0204] A top-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 27A
seen with pull transmitting members which are arranged diagonally
across the cavities is shown in FIG. 27B. The force transmitting
members are pulled in the direction indicated by arrows DDD and
DDDD, which are shown relative to the upper portion and the lower
portion so that when the outer container is closed the arrows DDD
and DDDD are superimposed upon each other.
[0205] A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 27A
seen with a single pull transmitting member and a single-piece
cavity seal is shown in FIG. 27C. The pull transmitting member 779
is substantially as wide as the cavity seal 777 and is attached to
the cavity seal at a location which is between the first and second
cavities and adjacent to the hinge. In use, the pull transmitting
member is pulled in a direction which is perpendicular to the hinge
(rather than diagonally across as in the embodiments shown in FIGS.
27A and 27B).
[0206] A side-view illustration of a fourth alternative embodiment
of an outer container incorporating a clamshell-type box in the
closed position is shown FIG. 28A. The clamshell-type outer
container (hereafter outer container) 800 comprises a tray portion
802, a lid portion (or cover portion) 804, and one or more inner
containers. The tray portion comprises a bottom wall 806, a front
wall 808, a rear wall 810, two side walls 812, and a pair of
latching detents 814. The cover portion comprises a top wall 816, a
front wall 818, a rear wall 820, two side walls 822, and a pair of
engaging tabs 824. The tray portion and the cover portion are
hingedly located relative to each other via a hinge 826. The inner
container(s) is (are) attached to the outer container via a holding
means (e.g., a flexible holding member) which is attached to the
outer container using an adhesive (or a friction/interference or
other suitable method). The inner container is placed within the
outer container such that the sandwich halves 828 can be placed on
either side of the inner container when the outer container is
closed (as shown) and such that the outer cover can be easily
removed from the inner container. A common tab 830 optionally
extends beyond the perimeter of the front wall of the tray portion
but is located under the front wall of the cover portion so that it
is not mistakenly pulled. A front wall fold line 834 extends across
the front panel of the cover portion.
[0207] The clamshell-type container and its structure are well
known in the art. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,205,476, to
Sorenson, entitled "Clamshell carton having an improved latching
mechanism," and U.S. Pat. No. 4,877,178, to Eisman, entitled
"Paperboard foldable carton," both of which are incorporated herein
by reference in their entirety.
[0208] A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 28A
with the cover portion opened is shown in FIG. 28B. The sandwich
halves are located adjacent to, and on each side of, the inner
container 832. The inner container is flexibly attached to the
outer container so that the completed sandwich can be removed from
the combination formed by the inner container and the outer
container after the outer cover is removed. The inner container can
optionally fit within the cavity formed within the tray portion so
that the completed sandwich can be stored above the inner container
and so that the outer container with the attached inner container
may be stacked prior to inserting the sandwich halves.
[0209] A front-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 28A
with the cover portion in the closed position is shown in FIG. 28C.
The optional common tab is centrally located under the front
wall.
[0210] A side-view illustration of the outer container of FIG. 28A
with the front wall of the tray portion pulled back to expose the
common tab is shown in FIG. 28D. In use, the user pulls up on the
bottom edge of the front wall of the tray portion so that the front
wall of the cover portion folds over itself at the front wall fold
line and exposes the optional common tab. This also creates an
opening which is shaped and sized such that it is large enough to
allow the outer cover of the inner container to pass through it as
the outer cover is removed from the inner container, but small
enough so that the front walls retain the sandwich halves in
position when the outer cover is removed from the inner container.
After the outer cover is removed, the user opens the cover portion
to expose the completed sandwich. The user then tilts the sandwich
and removes it from the inner container, thus forming a complete
sandwich.
[0211] A partial cutaway side-view illustration of the inner
container and outer container of the present invention, with
sandwich halves inserted, is shown in FIG. 29A. This embodiment is
similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 21 through 23 supra. The
outer container 500 is partially cut away to illustrate the inner
container 502 and the sandwich halves 508. The outer container is
constructed from a semi-rigid material (e.g., foam, cardboard,
plastic, laminates, etc.). The first and second draw members 504
and 514 respectively, extend beyond the perimeter of the inner
container. The outer cover mid fold 516 is shown for illustration.
In the embodiment shown, the draw members are attached to each
other adjacent to their first ends so that the first and second
tabs form a common tab 506.
[0212] A partial cutaway side-view illustration of an inner
container and outer container of FIG. 29A, as the inner container
is opened and the outer cover removed, is shown in FIG. 29B. The
outer container is held by the user. The user then pulls the common
tab away from the inner container, which causes the outer cover to
peel away from the center member. The outer cover separates from
the center member beginning at the base member and continues
separating until the outer cover fully detaches from the center
member. During the separation of the outer cover from the center
member, the outer cover folds over itself In optional embodiments
where the first ends of the pull members are not attached to each
other, the user may remove one side of the outer cover and then
remove the other side.
[0213] A partial cutaway side-view illustration of the inner
container and attached outer container of FIG. 29B, with the outer
cover removed, is shown in FIG. 29C. After the outer cover 510 and
the attached draw members are removed from the center member, they
are discarded. Because the outer cover folds over itself and
scrapes the sandwich halves as it is removed from the center
member, it tends to clean itself upon the sandwich halves, thus
preventing the filler 518 from sticking to the outer cover. This
minimizes wasted filler, minimizes the possibility of the filler
soiling the user, and also makes it easier for the user to dispose
of the outer cover. Additionally, because the outer cover peels
away from the filler, the outer cover tends not to pull the filler
apart.
[0214] A partial cutaway side-view illustration of the inner
container and attached outer container of FIG. 29C, as the sandwich
halves and filler are pulled from the opened inner container, is
shown in FIG. 29D. The sandwich halves and filler (i.e., the
completed sandwich) are pulled (in the direction as indicated by
arrow GG,) from the outer container and the opened inner container
contained therein.
[0215] A perspective-view illustration of a fifth alternative
embodiment of an outer container incorporating a tubular body is
shown in FIG. 30A. The outer container, generally referenced 850,
is tubular in shape with at least one opening, and is constructed
from a flexible material (e.g., aluminum foil, paper, cardboard,
other solid polymers, etc.). The outer container comprises a body
portion 852, a first side free edge 854, a second free edge 858, an
optional exterior holding portion 860, and a major opening. The
exterior holding portion is suitable for grasping, and is attached
to the inner container's holding member 620 using an adhesive or
other suitable method as discussed elsewhere in this document. In
alternative embodiments, the holding member 620 is optional as the
outer container is attached directly to the side members and/or the
base member of the inner container using an adhesive or other
suitable bonding method as discussed elsewhere in this document.
The first side free edge has two optional indentations 856 which
are sized such that the user can grasp the sandwich halves 622
while opening the inner container as well as remove the completed
sandwich once the outer cover has been removed. The completed
sandwich is removed from the outer container through the outer
container's major opening. The outer cover and the completed
sandwich are removed from the outer container by pulling the
completed sandwich in the direction indicated by arrow MM. In
alternative embodiments, the outer container is extended so that a
beverage or other desired object can be contained within the outer
container. In yet other alternative embodiments, a heating pad
(such as discussed supra) or other portable heating device can be
placed proximate to the inner container and provide a thermal
source for heating the filler. For example, a heating pad can be
placed on the exterior side of either or both side members.
[0216] In alternative embodiments, the outer container further
includes a minor opening located adjacent to the major opening. The
minor opening is shaped and sized such that the outer cover and the
attached draw members can pass through it when the package is
opened, but small enough so that the sandwich halves cannot pass
though it. The minor opening is removed or opened so that the
completed sandwich can pass through the major opening when the
sandwich halves are removed from the outer container. In yet other
alternative embodiments, the outer container is constructed from a
rigid or semi-rigid material.
[0217] A perspective-view illustration of the outer container with
a removable cover portion as shown in FIG. 30A is seen in FIG. 30B.
The removable cover portion 862 is attached to the body portion 852
and includes a minor opening 864 through which the tab means 616,
the draw members, and the attached outer cover can pass when the
inner container is opened, but which is small enough so that the
sandwich halves cannot pass through it as the inner container is
being opened. After opening the inner container (by pulling the
common tab 616 in the direction of line VV), the cover portion is
either torn open or fully removed from the body portion. The cover
portion is preferably made integrally with the body portion from
the same material as the body portion and is attached to the
tubular body portion using a weakened line (e.g., a weakened line
which coincides with the first side free edge, which defines the
major opening) or other suitable attachment means. Alternatively,
the removable cover portion can be slightly larger in diameter than
the tubular body portion, and secured to the body portion by
sliding it over the body portion and using an optional adhesive. In
other alternative embodiments, the minor opening of the cover
portion is sealed using an adhesive, a flap, etc.
[0218] A cutaway side-view illustration of the tubular outer
container shown in FIG. 30A is shown in FIG. 31. The outer
container should be shaped and sized such that the sandwich halves
are held within the inner container by friction but can be readily
removed from the outer container when desired. Although the tubular
outer container is shown as a substantially cylindrical shape, in
alternative embodiments it can be oval, square, or formed in other
shapes as desired.
[0219] A perspective-view illustration of the inner container of
FIG. 7 contained within a flexible outer container is shown in FIG.
32. The outer container 520 is constructed from a flexible material
(e.g., Mylar, plastic, paper, foil, cellophane, laminates, etc.)
and is attached to the inner container 522 via the holding member.
The holding member 528 is slid through an optional slot (not shown)
in the outer container before the outer container is folded and
wrapped around both the inner container and the sandwich halves
524. An optional adhesive or other suitable sealing method (e.g.,
thermal bonding, pressure bonding, tape, adhesive, etc.) is used to
hold the outer cover in position around the combination formed by
the sandwich halves and the inner container. The draw members 526
are attached to each other adjacent to their first ends so that the
first and second tabs form a common tab 552.
[0220] In alternative embodiments the outer container forms a
hermetic seal around the sandwich halves and optionally the inner
container, and has a removable cover section. In yet other
alternative embodiments, the outer container includes a cover
portion so as to fully conceal the sandwich halves contained
within. The cover portion is attached to the outer container via a
weakened line (e.g., scoring, perforating, adhesives, etc.). Before
the inner container is opened, the outer cover portion of the outer
container is removed. The outer cover should be shaped and sized
such that the sandwich can be readily removed from within.
[0221] An exploded perspective-view illustration of the inner
container and flexible outer container of FIG. 32 and an outer box
means with the cover peeled back is shown in FIG. 33. The outer box
means 530 comprises a box portion 548 and a box cover 532. The box
portion 548 comprises a primary cavity suitable for holding the
combination formed by the inner container, the optional outer
container, and the optional sandwich halves. The primary cavity is
defined, for the most part, by a first end wall 538, side walls
534, divider walls 540, and bottom wall 536A. The optional
secondary cavity is defined, for the most part, by second end wall
542, the divider walls 540, secondary side walls 546, and the
bottom wall 536B. The box portion 548 is constructed from a
semi-rigid material (e.g., polypropylene, cardboard, paper,
polystyrene, foamed polymers etc.) or other suitable material. The
secondary cavity is used for containing other food items (e.g.,
drinks, desserts, etc). The primary cavity should be shaped and
sized such that it is large enough so that a user can readily grasp
the sandwich for consumption.
[0222] The side walls 534 have optional concavities 544 which
protrude within the cavity so as to hold the sandwich firmly in
place within the cavity during shipping. The concavities allow the
user to readily grasp the sandwich by the sides for consumption. In
alternative embodiments, any suitable protrusion is used so as to
prevent the sandwich from moving substantially within the cavity
during shipping. Likewise, the bottom wall has one or more optional
concave regions which protrude within the cavity to hold the
sandwich in place during shipping but allow the user to readily
grasp the sandwich for consumption.
[0223] The inner container 520 is attached to the bottom wall 536
of the box means via the holding member 528 using an adhesive or
other suitable bonding method (e.g., pressure bonding, thermal
bonding, locking mechanisms, latches, notches, friction fit, etc.).
The holding member should allow the inner container and the
optionally attached outer container to move sufficiently so that
the outer cover can be removed from the inner container and so that
the sandwich can be removed for consumption. Alternatively, the
inner container can be (hingedly) attached to the box means using
hinges, tabs or other suitable friction-fit methods, or can be
formed integrally with the box means. The draw members are placed
within the cavity but, in alternative embodiments, the draw members
may extend through a slot in one of the adjacent side walls of the
cavity such that the draw members and the attached outer cover can
be removed from the inner container before the box means is opened.
Alternatively, a take-up-spool mechanism can be employed to accept
the draw members and the outer cover.
[0224] The box cover (only a partial section is shown) is
releasably attached to, or formed integrally with, the box portion
548 and hermetically seals the interior (e.g., the primary and the
secondary cavities) of the container. To open the outer box means,
the box cover is peeled away (e.g., as indicated by arrow T) from
the box portion to expose the outer container (and inner container
and sandwich halves) contained therein. The box cover is
constructed from a flexible material (e.g., Mylar, plastic,
cellophane, paper, foil, laminates, etc.) and is attached to the
outer box means using pressure bonding or other suitable methods
(e.g., thermal bonding, pressure bonding, adhesive bonding, etc.).
In alternative embodiments, the box cover can be constructed from a
semi-rigid or rigid material. In alternative embodiments, the draw
members are releasably attached to a take-up spool so that the draw
members and the attached outer cover can be taken up on the
spool.
[0225] A side-view illustration of the outer box means and inner
container and flexible outer container of FIG. 33, with the outer
box means' cover partially opened, is shown in FIG. 34A. The outer
box means 560 comprises a box portion 578 which is constructed from
a semi-rigid material as described elsewhere in this document and a
box cover 562 which is constructed from a flexible material as
described elsewhere in this document. The box portion comprises two
compartments: a primary compartment and an optional secondary
compartment. The primary compartment contains the combination
formed by the inner container, the sandwich halves, and the outer
container, while the secondary compartment contains one or more
optional condiments 574 (e.g., drink, snack, etc.). The outer
container is constructed from a flexible material (e.g., plastic,
Mylar, cellophane, paper, aluminum, laminates, etc.) which
partially encloses the combination formed by the inner container
and the sandwich halves contained therein. In use, the box cover is
peeled away from the box portion (as indicated by arrow TZ) to
expose the cavities and the optional common tab 564, which extends
(as indicated by arrow SZ), beyond the perimeter of the inner
container and the box portion.
[0226] A side-view illustration of the box means of FIG. 34A with
the cover opened, and the user pulling on the draw members of the
inner container, is shown in FIG. 34B. The common tab is pulled
away from the inner container 566 in the direction indicated by
arrow YY, which causes the outer cover to peel away from the center
member. The outer cover separates from the center member beginning
at the base member and continues separating until the outer cover
fully detaches from the center member. During the separation of the
outer cover from the center member, the outer cover folds over
itself. In alternative embodiments where the first ends of the pull
members are not attached to each other, the user may remove one
side of the outer cover (i.e., the upper sheet) and then remove the
other side (i.e., the lower sheet), which would reduce the amount
of force necessary to remove the outer cover from the center
member.
[0227] The primary cavity is large enough so that the inner
container, the outer container 570, and the sandwich halves 572 can
be positioned properly to remove the outer cover. After the outer
cover and the attached draw members are removed from the center
member, they are discarded.
[0228] A side-view illustration of the box means of FIG. 34B with
the cover opened and the outer cover removed and discarded, as the
completed sandwich is being removed from the inner container, is
shown in FIG. 34C.
[0229] The sandwich halves and filler 576 (i.e., the completed
sandwich) are pulled (in a direction indicated by arrow Z) from the
outer container and the opened inner container 566 contained
therein. The inner container 566 and the outer container 570 are
then left alone or folded into the cavity so that the user may
place the completed sandwich back into the primary cavity for
temporary storage. The optional condiments have been removed.
[0230] A perspective-view illustration of a sixth alternative
embodiment of an outer container incorporating a box-type container
is shown FIG. 35A. This embodiment is essentially similar to the
embodiment shown and described in FIG. 24A and the accompanying
text, a difference being that the body portion 908 is extended so
that optional objects (e.g., a beverage container 944, snacks,
and/or other desired objects) can be contained within the body
portion. The outer container 900 is a box-type outer container
which comprises a body portion 908 and a front portion 920, and is
constructed from a unitary blank of a semi-rigid material (e.g.,
cardboard, treated-paper, paperboard, polypropylene, foamed or
other types of solid polymers, plastics, laminates, etc.). The body
portion comprises a top panel 910, a bottom panel, side panels 912,
a rear panel, and a plurality of cavities. The front portion
comprises a first flap 904, a second flap 906, a third flap (which
is located directly behind the second flap), a removable flap 902,
and optional side flaps. The inner cavity comprises a primary
cavity and an optional secondary cavity which are not delineated by
any walls but, in optional embodiments, can be separated by
interior walls, etc. as desired. The inner container and sandwich
halves (the upper sandwich half 921 is shown) are contained within
the primary cavity of the outer container, while the optional
condiments (e.g., drinks, snacks, etc.) are contained within the
secondary cavity. The removable flap is constructed from the same
sheet of material as the outer container and is connected to the
first and second flaps via weakened lines 924 (e.g. perforated,
scored, adhesives, peel strip, etc.). Alternatively, the removable
flap is constructed from a separate sheet of material and is
releasably bonded to the body portion to seal the cavity. The
removable flap further comprises a removal tab 918 which is
suitable for grasping. An optional window 940 is located in the top
panel and allows for viewing of the contents of the package. An
optional weakened line 942 is located on the top panel and allows
the top panel (and the attached first flap) to be partially peeled
back and/or removed from the body portion so as to allow for more
convenient access to the sandwich contained within the body. An
optional beverage container (e.g., a Tetra Brick TM container
manufactured by the Tetra Pack Corp, Vernon Hills, Ill., a can,
and/or other desired object) is contained within the secondary
cavity. The beverage container is accessed and removed by opening
the rear panel. Alternatively, the beverage container is removed by
peeling back the top panel so as to provide access to the beverage
container.
[0231] A rear perspective-view illustration of the outer container
of FIG. 35A is shown in FIG. 35B. The rear portion 930 is
constructed similarly to the front portion and comprises a first
flap 934, a second flap 936, a third flap (which is located
directly behind the second flap), a removable flap 932, and
optional side flaps. Additionally, an optional weakened line 935 is
located on the bottom panel 933 and provides for easier access to
the sandwich contained within the body. In alternative embodiments,
the rear portion is constructed of a single flap which is
releasably attached to the body portion via weakened lines.
[0232] In alternative embodiments, the outer cover includes one or
more pockets which are formed integrally with it or are attached
thereto. The pockets are opened either before or during removal of
the outer cover from the center member such that the contents of
the pockets (e.g., salt, ketchup, etc.) are dispensed upon the
filler or other desired object. The pockets include weakened lines
which tear the pockets, thus opening them due to pressure within
the pockets as the outer cover is peeled back over itself.
[0233] There are numerous cohesive coatings which may be employed
in the practice of this invention to releasably cohere the numerous
elements of this invention to each other and especially the outer
cover to the center member and the box cover to the box portion.
The bond between the outer cover and the center member may be
continuous or interrupted.
[0234] In embodiments where it is desired to reduce friction
between the outer cover and/or the draw members and the sandwich
halves, a sheet of material which superposes the outer cover may be
placed between the outer cover, the draw member and the adjacent
sandwich half.
[0235] In all embodiments, the outer cover can be constructed from
a transparent material to allow the handler and/or consumer easily
to view and select the desired item. Similarly, the outer container
and/or the outer box can also be constructed from transparent
material. Moreover, the inner container can be provided with a
venting means so that the inner container can be vented if desired
during heating.
[0236] The packaging and dispensing system of the present invention
may be provided with any number of configurations and sizes. The
size and configuration will typically be determined by the
particular food product(s) contained within the inner container,
the optional sandwich halves, the outer container, and the box
means.
[0237] The materials used for the invention include, but are not
limited to, papers, foils, cellophane, Mylar, polyethylene,
polypropylene, polyester, foams, other types of polymers, or
composites of these or other suitable materials. The primary
requirements for the packaging materials are the ability to provide
a sealable package and compatibility with food products. If
desired, the materials should be compatible with optional
sterilization techniques and methods employed. Additionally, the
materials used for the package must, if required, be easily ripped
or torn, and the line of tearing must propagate in a desired
direction. In some instances, it might be desirable to add tear
strips or other guiding devices/coatings on or in the packaging
material to assist in a clean, linear tearing of the package
material. It will also be desirable to use materials such as
oriented fiber papers to assist in providing clean, linear edges in
the packaging material to be torn.
[0238] If desired, the cavity can be flushed using any known means
(as is known in the art) so as to reduce the oxygen content
contained within the cavity and thus extend the life of the
filler.
[0239] In various embodiments of the present invention, without
limitation, to enable the user more easily to use the present
invention, the first tab and the second tab (as well as the draw
members and other elements) may be colored to contrast with the
rest of the package, may be embossed to enhance user touch, feel,
and sight, may be cut in a way to indicate direction, and may be
numbered, embellished with arrows, or printed with directions to
indicate proper use.
[0240] It is intended that the appended claims cover all such
features and advantages of the invention that fall within the
spirit and scope of the present invention. As numerous
modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in
the art, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the
limited number of embodiments described herein. Accordingly, it
will be appreciated that all suitable variations, modifications and
equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the spirit and scope
of the present invention.
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