U.S. patent application number 13/635839 was filed with the patent office on 2013-05-23 for multi-piece dispenser for use with a consumable product.
This patent application is currently assigned to Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company. The applicant listed for this patent is Shashi Mishra, Atanu Palit, Noah Pentelovitch, David R. Phillips, Neema Pourian, Vijender Singh, Vinod Vibhute. Invention is credited to Shashi Mishra, Atanu Palit, Noah Pentelovitch, David R. Phillips, Neema Pourian, Vijender Singh, Vinod Vibhute.
Application Number | 20130126548 13/635839 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43971251 |
Filed Date | 2013-05-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130126548 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pourian; Neema ; et
al. |
May 23, 2013 |
MULTI-PIECE DISPENSER FOR USE WITH A CONSUMABLE PRODUCT
Abstract
A multi-piece dispenser for confectionary products including a
housing defining an inner chamber for storing a multi-piece package
of confectionary product including a slot for receiving an end
portion of the multi-piece package for dispensing the confectionary
product and a retention member for retaining the end portion of the
package within the slot for further dispensing.
Inventors: |
Pourian; Neema; (Chicago,
IL) ; Mishra; Shashi; (Bangalore, IN) ; Palit;
Atanu; (Bangalore, IN) ; Vibhute; Vinod;
(Bangalore, IN) ; Singh; Vijender; (Bangalore,
IN) ; Phillips; David R.; (Chicago, IL) ;
Pentelovitch; Noah; (New York, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Pourian; Neema
Mishra; Shashi
Palit; Atanu
Vibhute; Vinod
Singh; Vijender
Phillips; David R.
Pentelovitch; Noah |
Chicago
Bangalore
Bangalore
Bangalore
Bangalore
Chicago
New York |
IL
IL
NY |
US
IN
IN
IN
IN
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company
Chicago
IL
|
Family ID: |
43971251 |
Appl. No.: |
13/635839 |
Filed: |
March 22, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
March 22, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2011/029367 |
371 Date: |
February 11, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61316052 |
Mar 22, 2010 |
|
|
|
61424391 |
Dec 17, 2010 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
221/70 ; 221/303;
53/467 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 75/527 20130101;
B65D 2583/0445 20130101; B65D 83/04 20130101; B65D 85/60 20130101;
B65D 83/0472 20130101; B65B 1/02 20130101; B65D 25/22 20130101;
B65D 83/0463 20130101; B65D 75/36 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
221/70 ; 53/467;
221/303 |
International
Class: |
B65D 83/04 20060101
B65D083/04; B65B 1/02 20060101 B65B001/02 |
Claims
1. A multi-piece dispenser for confectionary products, the
dispenser comprising: a housing defining an inner chamber for
storing a multi-piece package of a confectionary product, the
housing including a slot for receiving an end portion of the
multipiece package for dispensing the confectionary product; and a
retention member disposed within the housing for retaining the end
portion of the package within the slot for further dispensing.
2. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the housing and the slot are
integrally formed.
3. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the slot further includes an
opening defining an access portion for inserting an end portion of
the package within the slot.
4. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the slot is non-threading.
5. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the housing is further defined
by a plurality of wall members.
6. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein at least one wall or a portion
thereof is removable for accessing the inner chamber.
7. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein at least one wall member is
hingedly attached to the housing for providing access to the inner
chamber.
8. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the retention member
integrally formed as part of the housing.
9. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the retention member further
includes at least one retention tab for retaining a portion of the
multi-piece package.
10. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein a first retention tab and a
second retention tab are connected to the slot to define an access
channel.
11. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the housing further includes
a first portion and second portion that are hingedly coupled
together, therein allowing access to the inner chamber.
12. The dispenser of claim 11, wherein the housing further includes
a base portion that is hingely coupled to the first portion and the
second portion, wherein the base portion is stationary and the
first and second portion move relative to the base portion thereby
providing access to the inner chamber.
13. The dispenser of claim 12, wherein the first and second
portions are coupled together to form the slot.
14. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the multi-piece package of
confectionary product comprises a plurality of gum pieces disposed
within a material, each gum piece is separated by a tear line to
form a plurality of individual packages that are securely coupled
together.
15. The dispenser of claim 1, further including a tear member
coupled to the housing for separating the multi-piece package into
individual pieces.
16. A multi-piece dispenser for confectionary products, the
dispenser comprising: a housing defining an inner chamber for
storing a multi-piece package of confectionary product, the housing
including a slot for receiving a first end portion of the
multi-piece package for dispensing the confectionary product; and a
retention member further including a tension assembly disposed in
the inner chamber of the housing for securing the second end
portion of the multi-piece package within the inner chamber and
retaining the first end portion of the package within the slot for
further dispensing.
17. The dispenser of claim 16, wherein the housing includes a first
portion and a second portion that are coupled together.
18. The dispenser of claim 16, wherein the slot is integrally
formed within the first portion of the housing.
19. The dispenser of claim 16, wherein the tension assembly further
includes an outer body, a coupling member and securing assembly for
securing the second end portion of the multi-piece package within
the inner chamber and retaining the first end portion of the
package within the slot for further dispensing.
20. The dispenser of claim 16, wherein a bottom surface of the
outer body of the tension assembly engages a corresponding bottom
surface of the first portion of the housing to provide additional
friction in rotation of the tension assembly within the inner
chamber.
21. The dispenser of claim 16, wherein the package is a blister
package comprised of a strip of interconnected individual blister
packs.
22. The dispenser of claim 21, wherein the individual blister packs
are separated by a tear line.
23. The dispenser of claim 22, wherein the tear line is
perforated.
24. The dispenser of claim 16, further including a hanging member
attached to the housing of the dispenser.
25. The dispenser of claim 16, wherein the retention member further
includes guide members for guiding the package through the
slot.
26. A method of manufacturing a multi-piece package of
confectionary product comprising: providing a piece of film
material having a predefined length and width and a central axis
dividing the film into a first half and a second half; positioning
a plurality of gum pieces on the first half of the film, wherein
each gum piece is disposed adjacent to the central axis of the film
separated by a predetermined distance along the length of the film
material; folding the second half of the film material about the
central axis such that the second half is placed over the first
half of the film therein covering the plurality of gum pieces;
sealing the film material about the length and width of the
material and between each of the gum pieces, such that each of the
gum pieces are sealed therein forming a multi-piece confectionary
package.
Description
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/316,052 filed Mar. 22, 2010 and U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/424,391 filed Dec. 17, 2010, the contents of
each which are fully incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The disclosure relates to a dispenser for use with a
consumable product, such as a confectionery product. More
specifically, the disclosure is directed to a dispenser for use
with a multi-piece package of confectionary product, in particular,
chewing gum.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Packaging for consumable products, in particular,
confectionary products, such as for example chewing gum, come in
all sizes, shapes, and containers depending on the needs and
desires of the consumer. Moreover, the marketing of the product has
a great influence on the overall design and appearance of the
package. Even though the enjoyment of a confectionary product,
i.e., chewing gum, is an individual experience, it is often shared
with others, such as for example, by offering others a piece of gum
or candy.
[0004] Chewing gum is often carried by an individual in discrete
packages having a limited number of pieces. Although the individual
packages are convenient for transporting and storage, the limited
piece count and individual packages make it difficult to share in a
space where a number of individuals are present. Accordingly, it
would be desirable to have a dispenser that allows individuals the
ability to obtain pieces of chewing gum or other confections for
enjoyment, and to be able to share with others. Moreover, consumers
want flexibility in their packaging which can meet the needs of
various occasions depending on the situation.
[0005] Alternatively, in many retail locations where chewing gum is
sold, it is often desirable for a consumer to have the ability to
purchase a single or select number of confectionary pieces, instead
of purchasing an entire pack. Moreover, many retail locations have
limitations on space and do not have the ability to stock large
quantities of confections. Therefore, it would be desirable to have
the ability to easily sell to consumers a select number of
confectionary pieces, depending on the quantity requested by the
consumer.
[0006] Even though it is desirable to have a dispenser that allows
for sharing among a number of individuals or providing individual
pieces that may be purchased by different consumers, it is critical
to ensure that the gum pieces are protected from outside
environmental factors. Accordingly, it is desirable to have
individual pieces that are sealed, as to preserve the quality and
flavor of the confection, while at the same time protecting it from
the outside environment.
[0007] In order to provide a more sustainable dispenser, it is
further desirable to consider alternatives for packaging and
dispensing of consumable products. The ability to refill an outer
container or dispenser enables either a retail location or an
individual consumer to minimize the amount of waste that is
associated with consuming the products. In addition, the cost
associated with only purchasing refills instead of having to
purchase more costly outer containers is further benefit.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] A multi-piece dispenser for confectionary products including
a housing defining an inner chamber for storing a multi-piece
package of confectionary product. The housing further includes a
slot for receiving an end portion of the multi-piece package for
dispensing the confectionary product. A retention member may
further be provided for retaining the end portion of the package
within the slot for further dispensing. Moreover, the retention
member may be positioned within the inner chamber of the dispenser.
The housing is configured, such that the slot is non-threading for
receiving the package within the slot.
[0009] The disclosure further includes a multi-piece dispenser for
confectionary products including a housing defining an inner
chamber for storing a multi-piece package of confectionary product.
The housing including a slot for receiving one end portion of the
multi-piece package for dispensing the confectionary product. The
dispenser further includes a retention member. The retention member
may further include a tension assembly disposed in the inner
chamber of the housing for securing another end portion of the
multi-piece package within the inner chamber and retaining the
other end portion of the package within the slot for further
dispensing.
[0010] Moreover, the disclosure further includes a multi-piece
package containing a plurality of gum pieces, wherein the gum
pieces are enclosed within a material and sealed along three sides.
Alternatively, the gum pieces may be sealed individually within
blister-type packages that are interconnected with one another to
form a continuous coil or strip. The package allows for unique
dispensing and integration within an outer housing for dispensing
of confectionary products.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The present invention will now be described by way of
example, with reference to the accompanying drawings:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dispenser including a
multi-piece package in accordance with one embodiment of the
invention;
[0013] FIG. 2 is an alternate view of the dispenser and multi-piece
package as shown in FIG. 1;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the dispenser and
multi-piece package as shown in FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the dispenser and
multi-piece package in accordance with another embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a perspective partial view of a dispenser and a
multi-piece package in accordance with another embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance
with another embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance
with another embodiment of the invention;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a back perspective view of an alternate embodiment
of a dispenser, wherein the back wall portion is hingedly
attached;
[0020] FIG. 9 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternate
embodiment of a dispenser;
[0021] FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of a dispenser in
accordance with another embodiment of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of a dispenser in
accordance with another embodiment of the invention;
[0023] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance
with another embodiment of the invention;
[0024] FIG. 13 a side view of the dispenser as shown in FIG.
12;
[0025] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the dispenser as shown in
FIG. 12 in an opened position;
[0026] FIG. 15 a side view of the dispenser as shown in FIG.
14;
[0027] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance
with another embodiment of the invention;
[0028] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance
with another embodiment of the invention;
[0029] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance
with another embodiment of the invention;
[0030] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a multi-piece package in
accordance with embodiment of the invention; and
[0031] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a multi-piece package in
accordance with another embodiment of the invention;
[0032] FIG. 21 is a side perspective view of a dispenser in
accordance with another embodiment of the invention;
[0033] FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of the dispenser as
shown in FIG. 21;
[0034] FIG. 23A is perspective view of a portion of the dispenser
in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, wherein another
portion has been removed to show the interior of the dispenser;
[0035] FIG. 23B is a perspective view of another portion of the
dispenser that may be coupled with the portion in FIG. 23A to
provide the dispenser;
[0036] FIG. 24 is perspective view of a portion of the dispenser in
accordance with another embodiment of the invention, showing the
interior of the dispenser;
[0037] FIG. 25 is a front perspective view of the dispenser as
shown in FIG. 24, wherein a multi-piece package, in accordance with
an embodiment of the invention, has been inserted into the
dispenser;
[0038] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment
of a dispenser;
[0039] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a portion of the tension
assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0040] FIGS. 28A and 28B are perspective views of components of the
coupling member for use in the dispenser, such as shown in FIG. 25,
in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0041] FIGS. 29A and 29B are perspective views of a dispenser and
multi-piece package in accordance with an embodiment of the
invention; and
[0042] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a multi-unit dispenser in
accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0043] The present disclosure provides a multi-piece dispenser for
consumable products, such as for example, confectionary products.
In one aspect, the multi-piece dispenser may be used for dispensing
chewing gum. The disclosure further provides alternate embodiments
of a dispenser and a multi-piece package, as well as a method for
manufacturing the multi-piece package.
[0044] The dispenser 10, in accordance with one aspect of the
present invention, includes a housing 14 containing a multi-piece
package 12 of confectionary product, such as for example chewing
gum G. The term "multi-piece package" is herein used to mean a
strip-like structure having a plurality of individual pieces of
gum, wherein each individual piece of gum is sealed within a
material (e.g., film, blister package) and coupled together to form
the strip-like structure (i.e., a bandoleer). The multi-piece
package may have a predefined width and length. The individual
pieces may further be divided by a tear line, such that upon the
exertion of force, the individual pieces may be separated from one
another. The multi-piece package may be provided in a roll-like
configuration or an accordion style configuration, such as
discussed in further detail below. Alternate configurations may
also be used for packaging and dispensing depending on the type of
confectionary being used, such as for example, alternate
configurations and sizing may be used depending on if tab, stick or
pellet chewing gum is being packaged and sold for use with the
dispenser. Moreover, the multi-piece package may include a variety
of individual gum pieces in a number of different piece counts,
such as for example, 25, 30, 60, 90 or any number of pieces as
desired by the consumer.
[0045] Alternatively, the confectionary pieces may be oriented in
various configurations relative to one another. As shown, the
confectionary pieces may be oriented in a long side/edge
orientation. In another embodiment, the confectionary pieces may be
configured within the package such that the short side/edge is
leading (i.e., the individual pieces are positioned end to end)
within the bandoleer.
[0046] Although the Figures and related disclosure are directed to
packaging and dispensing of confectionary products, in particular
chewing gum, the present invention may be directed to various
applications, including but not limited to other consumable
products, alternate confectionary products such as mints, candy
(including hard, chewy or gummy candy), chocolate and/or any other
confectionary. Moreover, alternate configurations of the dispenser,
such as, for example, those discussed below, may be utilized
including but not limited to, cube shaped, rectangular shaped,
triangular shaped, bean shaped, circular shaped, clam shell shaped,
cone shaped, or any other shape suitable for use as a dispenser, or
combinations thereof. In addition, various combinations of
dispensers may be coupled together, such that a dual (double) or
triple dispenser may be provided. Accordingly, the Figures are
exemplary and illustrate various aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0047] In one embodiment, the dispenser of the present invention
may be designed to be a refillable dispenser. This allows for the
consumer to maximize the use of the dispenser and to not increase
the waste associated with discarding the entire dispenser. In
another embodiment, the dispenser may not be refillable. In the
event that the dispenser is not refillable, the consumer would
discard the dispenser upon using the entire contents of the
multi-piece package.
[0048] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the
dispenser has a housing defining an inner chamber for storing the
multi-piece package of confectionary product. The housing may
further include a plurality of wall members, as shown in the
provided Figures. In one embodiment, the wall members forming the
housing may be integrally formed together as one unitary piece or
part. Alternatively, in another embodiment the wall members may be
separately manufactured and then hingedly couple to one another
and/or fit together upon assembly (i.e., such as a lid or other
type configuration). Alternatively, in another embodiment, various
manufacturing and assembly methods may be used for the assembly of
the walls to form the housing. Accordingly, the housing of the
present disclosure may be configured in alternate ways depending on
the materials used for assembly of the dispenser. Moreover, the
wall members may further include structural elements, including for
example, but not limited to elements (i.e., ribs) to enhance or
increase strength and/or decrease thickness of the wall
members.
[0049] In general, the dispenser may be formed of various
materials, including for example but not limited to, plastic or
plastic-like material, molded pulp, paperboard, cardboard, any
other paper based compositions, metal or metal alloys, composites,
any other alternate suitable materials, or combinations thereof as
recognized by one of skill in the art. The plastic or plastic-like
material may be selected from those materials that may be injection
moldable, including for example, but not limited to polypropylene
and/or polyethylene.
[0050] In accordance with one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1-5,
the dispenser 10 includes a housing 14 that is generally
cube-shaped having a plurality of wall members 18 defining an inner
chamber 16. As previously suggested, the wall members 18 may be
integrally formed as a unitary piece. As shown in FIG. 1, the
housing 14 further includes a top wall member 18', a bottom wall
member (not shown) and side walls members 18'' integrally formed as
one unitary piece. Additional, wall members 18''' are provided to
form the entire housing 14 upon assembly. The wall members 18'''
may be separately manufactured components, such as for example, end
caps (as shown in FIG. 1). In another embodiment, at least one wall
members 18''' may be integrally formed with the other wall members
18' and 18''. Moreover, in another embodiment, at least one wall
member 18''' may be hingedly attached, H, along one side to the
housing 14, such as illustrated in FIG. 2, therein providing access
to inner chamber 16. In another embodiment, alternate wall members
may be hingedly attached, depending on the design of the housing
14. The hingedly attached wall members may be coupled through the
use of a mechanical hinge or living hinge, either molded out of
plastic or through the use of other mechanical type components.
Moreover, in another embodiment (not shown), the housing 14 may be
folded out of paperboard, such that all of the wall members are
integrally connected to one another as required to achieve a
foldable cube-like configuration. As a result, the folded
paperboard edges may act as a hinge-like member. In accordance with
one embodiment, the layout for the housing 14 may be punch stamped
from a paperboard material, and then assembled, thereby forming the
dispenser.
[0051] Upon the assembly of the dispenser, a slot 20 may be defined
by the housing 14 therein allowing an end portion 22 of the
multi-piece package 12 to be disposed outside of the housing 14 for
access by a consumer. "End portion" is herein used to mean the end
of the multi-piece package that remains accessible to the consumer
when the multi-piece package is configured for packaging, such as
for example, in a rolled or accordion type configuration. The
length (l) of the slot 20 is shaped to reflect the general width
(w) of the multi-piece package 12, such that the package may be
readily provided through slot 20. In general, the slot 20 is
configured to receive the end portion 22 of the multi-piece package
12 for continued consumer use. As the consumer removes individual
pieces from the end portion 22 of the package 12, the package 12
may be pulled and a remaining portion 24 of the package 12 is
advanced through the slot 20. The remaining portion 24 of the
package 12 remains disposed in the inner chamber 16 of the housing,
as can be seen in FIG. 2. The size and shape of the slot 20 may be
altered or specifically dimensioned depending on the design of the
multi-piece package 12, such as for example, for different forms of
gum, i.e., stick, tab, pellet, any other alternate forms,
configurations of the confectionary pieces (e.g., side to side or
end to end) or other combinations thereof.
[0052] The slot 20 may further define an opening 26 that defines an
access portion 28 for inserting package 12 into the slot 20. As a
result, the dispenser and corresponding package is non-threading.
"Non-threading" is herein used to mean that the package is inserted
directly into the slot through a side opening and as a result does
not have to be inserted through the entire length (l) of the slot
from the inner chamber. As a result the end portion 22 of package
12 is easily positioned within slot 20 for continued use.
[0053] A retention member 30 may be further disposed within housing
14 for retaining the multi-piece package within the slot 20 for
continued dispensing and/or access. In accordance with one
embodiment, the retention member 30 is integrally formed within the
housing 14. Moreover, in one embodiment, the retention member 30
includes at least one retention tab 32 for retaining a portion of
the multi-piece package 12. In another embodiment, the retention
member 30 includes two retention tabs 32 for retaining a portion of
the multi-piece package. In one aspect, the retention tab(s) 32 may
be coupled to the interior surface of the housing along the length
(l) of the slot 20. In an embodiment, the retention tab(s) 32 may
be integrally formed as part of the slot 20. The retention tab(s)
32 may be provided at a predefined angle relative to the slot
and/or housing, such that multi-piece package is retained within
the slot and does not fall back into the inner chamber 16 of the
housing 14. As further illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the retention
tab(s) 32 in combination with the slot 20 therein define an access
channel 34. The access channel 34 may further be defined through
the angling of the retention tabs 32, therein providing a narrower
inlet portion 36 compared to the outlet portion 38 defining slot 20
on the external surface of the housing. The narrow inlet portion 36
ensures that the multi-piece package does not re-enter the inner
chamber of the dispenser and is retained in position relative to
the slot 20. Alternate embodiments of the retention tabs and
related orientations to one another may be used depending on the
size of the multi-piece package and the overall dimensions of the
slot 20. Moreover, the retention tabs may be angled at varying
degrees and used individually or in combination with one another to
retain the multi-piece package 12. Different orientations of
retention member 30, in particular retention tab(s) 32, to slot 20
may be used depending on the configuration of the multi-piece
package 12, such as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 (i.e., a roll
assembly or an accordion assembly). Alternatively, the retention
tab(s) may be formed as part of the outer dispenser to properly
align the multi-piece package within the dispenser. The size and
angling of the retention tab(s) may be altered depending on the
type, size and shape of the confectionary provided in the
multi-piece package. As discussed in more detail below, at least
one of the retention tabs may be made of a material that provides a
relative amount of "flex" such that one or more retention tabs may
move slightly upon pressure being applied by the package.
[0054] Upon the dispensing of the gum pieces G, the individual gum
pieces may be separated (i.e., torn) from the remaining multi-piece
package 12, so that the gum pieces may be used by the consumer and
the remaining portion of the multi-piece package 12 is retained by
the dispenser 10. As shown in FIG. 5, in an alternate embodiment, a
tear member 40 may further be provided in connection with housing
14 to assist in separating the gum pieces along a tear line
provided between each of the individual compartments containing at
least one gum piece G. The tear member 40 may be integrally formed
with the housing. The tear member 40 may be disposed on the
housing, such as for example, on wall member 18', as shown in FIG.
5. Alternate locations and relative positions of tear member 40 may
be further provided depending on the design of the dispenser. The
tear member may further be configured to have different sizes,
shapes or orientations depending on the design of the dispenser and
the multi-piece package. Although not shown, the tear member may
further be included on any embodiment of the dispenser
considered.
[0055] As previously, suggested, alternate embodiments of the
dispenser may be used. Accordingly, the above-mentioned components
of dispenser 10 made be used either individually or in combination
with alternate embodiments of the dispenser. As previously
suggested, alternate configurations of package 12 may be used, such
as foil wrapped packaging or blister-type packaging, for use in
connection with tab, stick, pellet, sphere, or alternate gum form
pieces.
[0056] Alternate embodiments of the dispenser may further include a
housing comprised of a plurality of portions that are coupled
together and further define an inner chamber. In one embodiment,
the dispenser may include a cube or cube-like dispenser 110, as
shown in FIG. 6, that includes a portion 111 and a portion 113 that
a hingedly H coupled together to form housing 114 defining inner
chamber 116. Upon closing portion 111 and portion 113, slot 120 may
be defined for receiving the end portion of the multi-piece
package. The slot 120 is non-threading. Retention tab(s) 132 may
further be disposed along the length (l) of the slot. In one
embodiment, the retention tab(s) 132 are each integrally formed
each portion 111 and 113, respectively. When portion 111 and
portion 113 are joined to form dispenser 110, a retention member
130 is formed through the combination of retention tabs 132.
[0057] Alternate embodiments of the present invention further
include a dispenser having a triangular or pyramidal shape, as well
as other shapes/configurations, as further illustrated by
dispensers 210, and 310 in FIGS. 7-11.
[0058] The triangular or pyramid shaped dispenser 210 may be used
in combination with the multi-piece package 12 previously
discussed. In accordance with one embodiment, as shown in FIGS.
7-10, dispenser 210 includes a housing 214 defining an inner
chamber 216 for storing the multi-piece package of confectionary
products, i.e., chewing gum. A plurality of wall members 218 may be
used in combination to form the housing 214. The wall members 218
may be integrally formed as one unitary piece or separately
manufactured for assembly. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, wall
218 may be a separate end cap or hingedly coupled to form the
housing 214. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 8, back wall 218'' may
be hingedly coupled to form housing 214. More specifically, as
shown in FIG. 9, dispenser 210 may further include a hinge (H)
wherein wall member 218'' may be hingedly attached or coupled to
wall member 218. Accordingly, wall member 218'' may be de-coupled
(i.e., separated) from wall member 218' along line (L), therein
providing access to inner chamber 216. Each of these configurations
allow for the consumer to readily access inner chamber 216 for
placement of the package (not shown) within the dispenser.
[0059] Depending on the design of the dispenser, different walls
may be separated or hingedly coupled to allow access to the inner
chamber 216. A slot 220 is further provided for receiving the end
portion of the multi-piece package of confectionary. A tear member
240 may further be provided in connection with housing 214. As seen
in more detail in FIGS. 9 and 10, alternate embodiments of
retention member 230 may be provided, for retaining the multi-piece
package in position. As shown in FIG. 9, the retention member may
further include separate retention tabs 232 defining an access
channel 234 having an inlet portion 236 and an outlet portion 238.
Alternatively, one retention tab 232 may be provided in connection
with a wall portion 218'' to form access channel 234, as shown in
FIG. 10. The use of one retention tab minimizes the additional
components that are required and utilizes an interior portion of a
wall member to further retain the package within the dispenser. As
previously discussed, the retention tabs are designed to retain the
package within the access channel 234 leading to slot 220, such
that the package does not fall back within inner chamber 216.
[0060] Depending on the design of the dispenser, the retention tabs
may further include at least one slight curvature to facilitate the
relative movement of the package into the access channel 234. As
further shown in FIG. 10, retention tab 232 may have further
include a curved portion 233 that allows the package to readily
glide around the end of retention tab 232, such that the package or
confectionary pieces do not get caught on the end of the retention
tab.
[0061] An alternate embodiment of the dispenser 310 is shown in
FIG. 11, wherein a modified circular or tear-drop shaped outer
dispenser is provided. The dispenser 310 includes housing 314
defined by at least one outer wall 318, and side walls (not shown).
At least one side wall (not shown) may be removed to allow access
by the consumer to the inner chamber 316. As previously discussed,
a single retention tab 332 may be provided in combination with the
inner surface of the outer wall 318 to form retention member 330.
The retention tab 332 further includes a curved portion 333 that
facilitates the movement of the package (not shown) within the
dispenser 310 and through slot 320. An additional guide member 334
may be integrated within the inner chamber 316 of the housing 314.
The guide member 334 is provided to prevent the package from
becoming caught on retention member 332 within curved portion 333.
Guide member 334 may be designed in different lengths, forms or
configuration to facilitate the movement of the package within the
dispenser.
[0062] Additional embodiments of the dispenser may further include
alternate slot configurations. Such alternate slot configurations
provided additional access to the multi-piece package by the
consumer or provided alternate methods for tearing the individual
pieces from the multi-piece package.
[0063] Another embodiment of the present invention may include a
dispenser 510 having a multi-piece configuration (such as, for
example, the bean shaped configuration), wherein the pieces are
hingedly connected to one another, as further illustrated in FIGS.
12-15. As an example, the bean shaped dispenser 510 may be used in
combination with the multi-piece package 12 as previously
discussed. Accordingly, dispenser 510 includes a housing 514
defining an inner chamber 516 (as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15) for
storing the multi-piece package of confectionary products, i.e.,
chewing gum. A plurality of wall members 518 may be used in
combination to form the housing 514. The wall members 518 may be
integrally formed as one unitary piece or separately manufactured
for assembly. More particularly, in one embodiment, dispenser 510
may further include a side portion 511, a side portion 513, and a
base portion 515. Portions 511 and 513 may be hingedly attached (H)
to base portion 515. The base portion 515 is stationary, whereas
portions 511 and 513 move relative to the base portion thereby
providing access to the inner chamber, as illustrated in FIGS. 14
and 15. A slot 520 is further provided for receiving the end
portion of the multi-piece package of confectionary. A retention
member 530 may be provided, as partially shown in FIG. 12 within
slot 520, for retaining the multi-piece package in position. The
retention member may further include retention tabs 532, as further
illustrated in FIG. 14. Although not illustrated, a tear member may
further be provided in connection with the bean shaped
dispenser.
[0064] In another embodiment, dispenser 610 may further be provided
in a cube-like configuration, as illustrated in FIG. 16. The
dispenser 610 includes a housing 614 defining an inner chamber 616.
The housing 614 further includes a top portion 611 and a bottom
portion 613. The top portion 611 may be hingedly attached to bottom
portion 613, or alternatively may be a separate portion that is
detachably coupled. The top portion 611 further defines a slot 620
for receiving and retaining the multi-piece package. Alternate
openings may be integrated within the dispenser or slot opening
(e.g., for a finger to place through) for further assisting the
consumer in accessing the end portion of a multi-piece package. For
example, the slot 620 may further include a contact opening 642 for
further assisting the consumer in accessing the end portion of a
multi-piece package. At least one retention tab 632 may be further
included to assist in retaining the multi-piece package. The
retainer tab 632 (although not wholly visible) may be integrally
formed with top portion 611. Openings 650 may further be provided
by bottom portion 613. Openings 650 may be used for display
purposes, such as displaying a design provided on the multi-piece
package, or to allow the customer to access the multi-piece package
through the openings 650.
[0065] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, dispenser 710
may further be provided in a clam-shell configuration. The
dispenser 710 includes a housing 714 defining an inner chamber 716.
The inner chamber 716 is open on the sides and allows the consumer
to readily view the multi-piece package stored within the inner
chamber 716. An alternate configuration may further provide an
enclosed claim-shell design. Dispenser 710 further includes a
portion 711 and a portion 713 hingedly attached (H) to one another.
The combination of portion 711 and portion 713 form slot 720 for
receiving and retaining the multi-piece package. Although not
shown, a retention member, including at least one retention tab,
may be integrated and used in connection with slot 720.
[0066] Furthermore, in an alternate embodiment, dispenser 810 is
provided in a circular or ring shaped configuration. In one
embodiment the dispenser 810 may be hollow in the center, therein
providing a ring shaped configuration. Alternatively, the dispenser
may have full formed side portions, as shown in FIG. 18, therein
providing a circular shaped configuration. Moreover, in another
embodiment, a circular dispenser may be provided. In accordance
with an embodiment of the invention, dispenser 810 includes a
housing 814 defining an inner chamber (not shown). The housing 814
further includes a body portion 811 and a side portion 813. The
side portion 813 may be hingedly coupled to body portion 811, or
alternatively may be a separate portion that engagingly couples to
the body portion 811. The body portion 811 further defines a slot
820 for receiving and retaining the multi-piece package. The side
portion 813 is provided to enclose housing 814 and secure the
multi-piece package within the dispenser 810.
[0067] As previously discussed, the present invention is directed
to a dispenser for use with a multi-piece package. Moreover, the
disclosure relates to the multi-piece package and the method of
manufacturing the multi-piece package for dispensing. Overall, the
multi-piece package is directed to a strip-like structure
containing a plurality of individual pieces of confectionary
product, in particular, chewing gum. The individual pieces of gum
may be separately sealed but are coupled together to form the
multi-piece package, also referred to as a bandoleer. In order to
separate the individual pieces from one another, a tear line T may
be provided, such as those shown in FIGS. 19 and 20. As can be seen
in FIG. 19, the multi-piece package 12 includes individual gum
pieces G that enclosed by a material 13, such as for example, a
film that is used to seal the gum pieces. Alternative, the gum
pieces may be enclosed in individual blister-type packages that are
coupled together to form a roll-like bandoleer (as shown, for
example, in FIG. 21-22, 25). Each of the individual gum pieces are
separated by a tear line T. The tear lines may be perforated along
the entire length of the tear line or just a portion thereof.
Alternatively, tear notches T' may be provided along the tear line,
such that a tear member (i.e., tear member 40 shown in FIG. 5) may
further assist in separating the individual pieces from one
another. Alternatively, the tear notch T' may be offset from the
tear line T, such that the individual gum pieces may be separated
from one another and then a tear notch is provided within the
package to open the package. In general, the tear notch T' may be
provided throughout various locations of the package for opening
the package. Alternatively, a consumer may easily tear the
individual pieces apart based on either the perforated tear line T,
as shown in FIG. 19, or the additional tear notches T' provided on
the ends of the individual wrapped pieces, as shown in FIG. 20.
Although FIGS. 19 and 20 show the individual gum pieces coupled
together on the length of the gum pieces, alternate configurations
are considered, such that the tear line is repositioned and the gum
pieces are placed end to end within the package.
[0068] Alternate embodiments of the dispenser may further include
those shown having a blister-type multi-piece package, as shown for
example in FIGS. 21-30. As can be seen throughout the Figures,
dispenser 1110 may be configured to retain a multi-piece package
1112 designed to enclose individual pieces of pellet-type gum forms
within individual blister packages P. The individual gum pieces are
providing in package 1112 may be separated by a tear line T.
Alternatively, each of the gum pieces could be manually separated
by a consumer through mechanically severing (i.e., cutting) the
pieces apart. In accordance with an embodiment of the invention,
dispenser 1110 includes a housing 1114 having a body portion 1111
and a side portion 1113 (alternately, the side portion 1113 may be
considered the top portion depending on the orientation of the
dispenser, and the body portion may be considered the bottom
portion). The body portion 1111 and side portion 1113 may be
coupled together to form an inner chamber 1116, as partially shown
for example in FIGS. 23-25. Body portion 1111 and side portion 1113
may be coupled together through any type of coupling mechanism,
including for example, but not limited to, a snap-fit
configuration, an interlocking mechanism, a hook and loop mechanism
or any other type known by one of ordinary skill in the art.
Alternatively, side portion 1113 may be hingedly connected to body
portion 1111, as previously described in relation to other
configurations of dispensers.
[0069] In accordance with an embodiment, as shown more specifically
in FIGS. 23A and 23B, body portion 1111 is further defined by an
outer wall 1118 and bottom surface 1119 therein providing an inner
chamber 1116. Additional support members 1121 may be integrated
within the body portion 1111 to further reinforce the structure and
increase rigidity. Alternate support members may also be provided
depending on the design of the dispenser 1110. The support members
may further be configured to reflect the configuration of the
package 1112 or help facilitate movement of package 1112 within
inner chamber 1116, as more clearly shown in FIG. 25.
[0070] Dispenser 1110 may further include a hanging member 1123 to
enable the dispenser to be hung in various location or positions or
secured in position (either to a wall, counter, or any other
location that would be convenient to consumers or retail
locations). The hanging member 1123 may have alternate
configurations depending on the design of the dispenser. Moreover
the dispenser 1110 may be secured in position by either a fastener
(such as for example, screws/nails), a hooks/loop type mechanism or
any other type of coupling or securing mechanism that is known by
one of ordinary skill in the art.
[0071] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, body
portion 1111 and side portion 1113, as shown for example in FIGS.
23A and 23B, may be coupled together to form dispenser 1110. As
previously suggested, side portion 1113 and body portion 1111 may
be secured either though a snap-fit, locking or any other type of
connection means known by one of ordinary skill in the art (such as
for example, incorporating connection members 1125 in side portion
1113 for engagement with receiving portions 1127 provided by body
portion 1111). As a result, side portion 1113 and body portion 1111
may be separated for refilling of the dispenser and then
subsequently reconnected. Moreover, side portion 1113 may further
include alignment members 1128 that further help guide or align
side portion 1113 with body portion 1111 prior to attachment of the
two portions together.
[0072] As previously discussed, a slot 1120 may be integrated as
part of body portion 1111 allowing package 1112 to extend outside
of the housing 1114 resulting in end portion 1122 of package 1112
being readily accessible to either a consumer or vendor. Alternate
placements of slot 1120 may be considered within housing 1114
depending on the needs of the consumer and for manufacturing
capabilities. Slot 1120 may be configured as threaded (as shown in
FIGS. 23-25) but alternatively the slot may be non-threaded in
accordance with the previously described embodiments.
[0073] Dispenser 1110 may further include a retention member as
previously disclosed in relation to alternate embodiments wherein
various retention members (although not shown) may be integrated
with the slot 1120 to further support and retain package 1112
within the dispenser 1110. As shown in FIGS. 23A, 24-25, the
retention member may further include guide members 1131 to further
facilitate the movement of package 1112 into slot 1120. Alternate
configurations of guide members 1131, although not shown, may
further include for example, flexible members that allow for
flexing of the member 1131 relative to the package, as well as the
incorporation of foam or other related materials that would provide
the desired amount of friction and guidance but not inhibit the
movement of the package within the inner chamber 1116. Each of
these elements could be integrated within either body portion 1111
or side portion 1113 depending on the design and functionality of
the dispenser 1110.
[0074] In a further embodiment, the retention member of dispenser
1110 may further include a tension assembly 1150, as can be seen
for example in FIGS. 24-26. The tension assembly 1150 may be
further provided to ensure that the package 1112, as shown in FIG.
25, is retained within the inner chamber 1116 of dispenser 1110 and
does not inadvertently extend beyond the slot 1120 an amount which
is desired by the consumer. Although the tension assembly 1150 may
be placed in various locations within the inner chamber 1116 or
oriented in alternate configurations within dispenser 1114, it is
desirable to have the tension assembly 1150 positioned in a
relatively central location within inner chamber 1116 to optimize
the coiling of the package 1112 as seen in FIG. 25. The tension
assembly 1150 may further include an outer portion 1151, a coupling
member 1152 and a securing assembly 1153.
[0075] As suggested, and in accordance with an embodiment, the
tension assembly 1150 may be designed to couple and secure the
package 1112 to dispenser 1110 while maintaining the preferable
coiling of package 1112 within inner chamber 1116 (as more
specifically shown in FIG. 25). As can be seen in FIGS. 25 and 26,
the tension assembly includes an outer body 1151 that secures the
components of the tension assembly 1150 to the dispenser 1110 while
coupling package 1112 to the overall tension assembly 1150. An
alternate embodiment of the outer body 1151, as more shown in more
detail in FIG. 27, may further include a tongue/groove
configuration (i.e., teeth-like members) on the bottom 1155 to
interface with a corresponding portion 1156 of the bottom surface
1119 of body portion 1111 (as shown in FIG. 23A). The corresponding
teeth and relative interaction between the bottom 1155 of outer
body 1151 of tension assembly 1150 and portion 1156 increases the
friction between the dispenser and the tension assembly 1150 to
further control the movement of the tension assembly 1150 relative
to the housing 1114, in particular body portion 1111.
[0076] The tension assembly 1150 further includes a coupling member
1152. As shown in FIGS. 24-26. The coupling member 1152 may be
integrated as part of the outer body 1151 of tension assembly 1150.
The coupling member 1152 is used to interconnect the package 1112
to the tension assembly 1150, therein securing the package coil
within the inner chamber 1116 of dispenser 1110. As shown in FIG.
25, in accordance with one embodiment, the last blister P fits
within the coupling member and is therefore retained in position
due to the design of the coupling member. An alternate
configuration may be further considered wherein an extension member
1158 and coupler 1160 (as shown in FIGS. 28A and 28B) may be used
for coupling the package 1112 to tension assembly 1150. The
extension member 1158, as shown for example in FIG. 28A, provides a
connection end 1159 for coupling to a slot 1162 integrated within
the outer body 1151 of tension assembly 1150, as shown for example,
in FIG. 27. Depending on the design of the outer body 1151,
multiple slots 1162 may be formed. The opposite end of extension
member 1158 further provides a connection end 1161 that allows for
connection to the coupler 1160. Receiving slot 1163 is formed at
one end of the coupler 1160, such that connection end 1161 of
extension member 1158 is received within slot 1163 therein securing
the extension member 1158 to coupler 1160. Opening 1164 of coupler
1160 allows for the end of a package 1112 to be retained by the
coupler 1160 such that the last blister of the package 1112 is held
within receptacle 1165. Alternate configurations of coupling member
1152 may be used depending on the design of the dispenser 1110.
Although plastic or plastic-derived materials are preferred for the
design, various materials may be used to form each of these
components, including but not limited to plastic, paperboard or
other semi-durable type materials that are known by one of ordinary
skill in the art.
[0077] As previously suggested, a securing assembly 1153 is further
provided as part of the tension assembly 1150. As seen in FIGS.
24-26, in particular FIG. 26, the securing assembly 1153 is one
example of how to secure the tension assembly 1150 to body portion
1111, but alternate configurations of the securing assembly are
contemplated within the scope of the invention. The securing
assembly 1153 attaches the body portion 1111 of dispenser 1110 to
package 1112. In accordance with one embodiment, as seen in the
provided Figures, securing assembly 1153 includes a connection
member 1170 (such as for example, a screw) provided through the
bottom surface 1119 of body portion 1111 into inner chamber 1116
and through the center of outer portion 1151 of tension assembly
1150. A spring or spring-like member 1171 may be positioned over
the connection member 1170 and a securing member 1173 (such as for
example, a wing nut) is positioned over the spring to interconnect
and retain all of the components of the securing assembly 1153.
Although specific components of the securing assembly have been
described and shown, alternate components having similar or
equivalent functionality may be used to secure the tension assembly
1150 within dispenser 1110.
[0078] Alternate configurations of dispenser 1110 may further
provide other functional elements to be incorporated within the
outer surface of the housing 1114 of the dispenser 1110. Such
elements would include, for example but are not limited to, a clock
or any other type of display like window or area that would allow a
retailer to use the dispenser for additional purposes.
[0079] Another embodiment of the present invention further includes
an alternate form of a dispenser 1210, as shown in FIGS. 29A and
29B. Accordingly, one embodiment may further provide a hand-held or
personal configuration that incorporates a blister package. In
accordance with one of the embodiments of the present invention,
the handheld dispenser 1210 would include a coil-like configuration
of a blister package 1212 and an opening 1220 that would allow for
a consumer to access or withdraw a single blister. The opening 1220
could be defined by either a portion 1214a of the housing 1214
configured to either slide into the housing 1214 or be hingedly
connected to the housing 1214. The hand-held configuration allows
for increased sharing among individuals while at the same time
maintaining freshness of the product enclosed within the blister
package.
[0080] In another embodiment, the present invention further
includes a multi-unit dispenser 1300, as shown in FIG. 30, wherein
separate dispensers 1310a, 1310b, and 1310c may be coupled together
or integrated with one another to form a dispenser that has
multiple different packages 1312a, 1312b, and 1312c. The multi-unit
dispenser may be used to dispense different confectionary products
either having different forms, flavors, or any other combinations.
Accordingly, as an example, one dispenser could include a package
for stick gum, while another dispenser includes gum in pellet form,
and an additional dispenser could include an alternate
confectionary product. Alternatively, as shown, each of the
dispensers could include different pellet blister-type packages
that have different flavors or products within the packages. The
multi-unit dispenser may include at least one housing having
individual slots for the separate packages or alternatively
multiple housings may be provided that are coupled together, as
known by one of ordinary skill in the art. Although FIG. 30 shows
three individual dispensers coupled together, such representation
is exemplary by nature and alternate numbers of dispensers and
packages may be integrated together depending on the desired form
of the multi-unit dispenser. Moreover, the multi-unit dispenser may
be provided in alternate shapes and sizes depending on the desired
configuration of the dispenser.
[0081] The present invention further includes a method for
manufacturing the multi-piece package of confectionary product. The
multi-piece package includes a three-sided sealed configuration.
Accordingly, a piece of material is provided having a predefined
width and length. The material may include any type of material
that creates an adequate barrier for protecting the confection
product inside. Moreover, the material must also exhibit
attributes, such as for example, being sealable, tearable,
printable and cost effective. As a result, the material may include
but is not limited to, the use of orientated polypropylene film.
The piece of material is divided (although not physically divided)
in half by a central line thereby dividing the material into two
halves. A plurality of gum pieces are positioned on one half, such
that each of the ends of the individual gum pieces are disposed
adjacent to the central line of the film. The gum pieces are
separated by a predetermined distance along the length of the film.
Once the gum pieces are positioned, the other half (that does not
have the gum pieces) is folded about the central line such that the
folded half is placed on top of the half of the film that includes
the individual chewing gum pieces. Subsequently, the material is
sealed about the length and width of the material and between each
of the individual gum pieces, such that the gum pieces have a
three-sided seal. The fourth side is formed by the folding of the
material about the central line. As a result a multi-piece package
is created including individual pieces of gum having a three sided
seal. The multi-piece package may then be used in connection with
any of the various embodiments of the dispenser previously
disclosed.
[0082] While the invention has been described with respect to
certain preferred embodiments, as will be appreciated by those
skilled in the art, it is to be understood that the invention is
capable of numerous changes, modifications and rearrangements, and
such changes, modifications and rearrangements are intended to be
covered by the following claims. Moreover, the foregoing
descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have
been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They
are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the
precise forms disclosed, and various modifications and variations
are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were
chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the
invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others
skilled in the art to utilize the invention and various embodiments
with various modifications as are suited to the particular use
contemplated. The invention has been described in great detail in
the foregoing specification, and it is believed that various
alterations and modifications of the invention will become apparent
to those skilled in the art from a reading and understanding of the
specification. It is intended that all such alterations and
modifications are included in the invention, insofar as they come
within the scope of the appended claims. It is intended that the
scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto and
their equivalents.
[0083] All directional references (e.g., upper, lower, upward,
downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above,
below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are
only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's
understanding of the present invention, and do not create
limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use
of the invention. Joinder references (e.g., attached, coupled,
connected, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may
include intermediate members between a connection of elements and
relative movement between elements. As such, joinder references do
not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and
in fixed relation to each other. It is intended that all matter
contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying
drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not
limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made without
departing from the spirit of the invention as defined in the
appended claims.
* * * * *