U.S. patent application number 14/871442 was filed with the patent office on 2017-03-30 for cable retainers for packaging and methods of packaging a cable.
The applicant listed for this patent is Apple Inc.. Invention is credited to Jinjing WANG.
Application Number | 20170088392 14/871442 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58406598 |
Filed Date | 2017-03-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170088392 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
WANG; Jinjing |
March 30, 2017 |
Cable Retainers for Packaging and Methods of Packaging a Cable
Abstract
Packaging and cable retainers for packaging wound cables are
provided. The packaging may include a cavity configured to receive
a wound cable held by a cable retainer. The cable retainer may be a
single foldable piece of material. The cable retainer may include a
plurality of fingers hingedly coupled to a panel and a plurality of
flaps cut from the panel and hingedly coupled to the panel. The
fingers may be attached to respective flaps to thereby define
passageways through which a wound cable may extend. Methods of
packaging wound cables are also discussed.
Inventors: |
WANG; Jinjing; (San Jose,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Apple Inc. |
Cupertino |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
58406598 |
Appl. No.: |
14/871442 |
Filed: |
September 30, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 85/671 20130101;
B65B 5/04 20130101; B65H 75/06 20130101; B65B 63/04 20130101; B65D
85/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65H 75/06 20060101
B65H075/06; B65B 5/04 20060101 B65B005/04; B65D 85/671 20060101
B65D085/671; B65B 63/04 20060101 B65B063/04 |
Claims
1. Packaging comprising: a base comprising a cavity; a cable
retainer disposed within the cavity, the cable retainer comprising:
a panel extending across the cavity, a plurality of fingers, each
finger hingedly coupled to the panel; a plurality of flaps cut from
the panel and hingedly coupled to the panel; wherein each finger is
attached to a flap to thereby together define a passageway.
2. The packaging of claim 1, wherein each finger is releasably
attached to the flap via an attachment member.
3. The packaging of claim 2, wherein the attachment members
comprise an adhesive.
4. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the passageways extend
parallel to a lower surface of the cavity.
5. The packaging of claim 4, further comprising a wound cable
extending through the passageways.
6. The packaging of claim 5, wherein the wound cable loops through
the passageways multiple times, and wherein each loop of the wound
cable that extends through the passageways is disposed on the same
plane parallel to the lower surface of the cavity.
7. The packaging of claim 5, wherein the cavity includes a corner,
and wherein a plug of the cable is positioned adjacent to the
corner outside of the loops of the wound cable, such that contact
between the plug and walls of the corner inhibits rotation of the
wound cable.
8. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the panel, the fingers, and
the flaps are a single integrally formed piece.
9. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the panel is disposed on a
lower surface of the cavity, and wherein the cable retainer has a
maximum thickness of less than or equal to 7 millimeters measured
perpendicularly from the lower surface of the cavity.
10. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the base comprises a product
surface for supporting a product, and wherein the cavity is formed
in the product surface.
11. The packaging of claim 10, wherein the cavity has a depth of
less than or equal to 7 millimeters measured from the product
surface to a lower surface of the cavity.
12. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the cable retainer is
completely disposed within the cavity.
13. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the hinged couplings between
each finger and the panel are defined by grooves on the cable
retainer.
14. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the hinged couplings between
each finger and the panel are defined by fold lines on the cable
retainer.
15. The packaging of claim 1, wherein each finger is hingedly
coupled to a segment that is hingedly coupled to the panel.
16. The packaging of claim 15, wherein the panel, the segments, the
fingers, and the flaps define the passageways.
17. The packaging of claim 1, wherein a free end of each finger
attached to a flap points in a direction opposite the direction
that a free end of the flap points.
18. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the cable retainer is
composed of a paper-based product.
19. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the cable retainer comprises
the same number of fingers as flaps.
20. The packaging of claim 1, further comprising a pull tab coupled
to the panel.
21. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the panel is releasably
coupled to a lower surface of the cavity.
22. A cable retainer for packaging a wound cable, the cable
retainer comprising: a single foldable piece of material configured
to fold from a flat configuration to a folded configuration, the
single foldable piece of material comprising: a panel, a plurality
of fingers, each finger hingedly coupled to the panel, and a
plurality of flaps cut from the panel and hingedly coupled to the
panel; wherein, in the folded configuration, each finger is folded
towards a geometric center of the panel and attached to a
respective flap to define a plurality of passageways for receiving
a wound cable.
23. The cable retainer of claim 22, wherein the attachment between
the fingers and respective flaps is a releasable attachment.
24. The cable retainer of claim 23, wherein the releasable
attachments comprise one or more of the following: an adhesive, a
tab and slot coupling, a snap-fit coupling, and a hook and loop
fastener.
25. The cable retainer of claim 22, further comprising a pull tab
hingedly coupled to the panel.
26. The cable retainer of claim 22, wherein the single foldable
piece of material is composed of a paper-based product.
27. The cable retainer of claim 22, wherein the single foldable
piece of material is a compostable material.
28. The cable retainer of claim 22, wherein the single foldable
piece of material is a recyclable material.
29. A packaged cable comprising: the cable retainer of claim 22 in
the folded configuration, and a wound cable extending through the
passageways defined by the cable retainer.
30. The packaged cable of claim 29, wherein the wound cable loops
through the passageways defined by the cable retainer multiple
times, wherein each loop of the wound cable that extends through
the passageways is disposed on the same plane parallel to a top
surface of the cable retainer panel, and wherein no loop of the
wound cable is disposed on top of another loop of the wound
cable.
31. Packaging comprising: a base comprising a cavity; the cable
retainer of claim 22 in the folded configuration disposed in the
cavity, and a wound cable extending through the passageways defined
by the cable retainer.
32. A method of assembling a packaged cable, the method comprising:
winding a cable to form a wound cable including a plurality of
cable loops; folding a cable retainer about the wound cable,
wherein the folding comprises: folding flaps cut from a panel of
the cable retainer, folding fingers hingedly coupled to the panel
of the cable retainer, and attaching the fingers to respective
flaps to thereby define a plurality of passageways through which
the loops of the wound cable extend; and positioning the cable
retainer and the wound cable in a cavity formed in a packaging
container.
33. The method of claim 32, wherein each loop of the wound cable is
disposed on the same plane parallel to a top surface of the cable
retainer panel.
34. The method of claim 32, wherein the cable is wound such that
each loop of the cable is in contact with immediately adjacent
loops along a majority of each loop.
35. A blank for forming a cable retainer, the blank comprising: a
central panel connected to a plurality of fingers by a first set of
upward fold lines; and a plurality of flaps cut from the central
panel and connected to the central panel by a second set of upward
fold lines; wherein each upward fold line in the first set of
upward fold lines is oriented parallel to an upward fold line in
the second set of upward fold lines.
36. The blank of claim 35, further comprising a plurality of
segments, each segment disposed between the central panel and a
respective finger; wherein the segments are connected to the
fingers by the first set of upward fold lines, and wherein the
segments are connected to the central panel by a third set of
upward fold lines.
37. The blank of claim 35, further comprising a pull tab connected
to the central panel by a fourth upward fold line.
Description
FIELD
[0001] The described embodiments relate generally to cable
retainers. More particularly, the described embodiments relate to
cable retainers for use in packaging.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Many products utilize cables in some form or another. For
example, an electronic device may utilize one or more cables to
receive or transmit power and/or data (e.g., audio or video
signals). In some instances, it may be desirable to store and/or
package the cable(s) (e.g., between uses, in transit, or while
presented for sale).
SUMMARY
[0003] Packaging for consumer products protects the products from
damage and facilitates brand recognition. Effective packaging can
be an important tool used to attract and retain customers. In some
embodiments, packaging can be used to engage the consumer's
attention and focus that attention on the product(s) rather than
the packaging itself. In some embodiments packaging is easily
undone for removal of a product or product component/accessory.
This can reduce frustration of a customer. In some embodiments
packaging, or portions thereof, may be reused by the consumer,
contributing to its overall utility.
[0004] While ease of operating packaging to access a packaged
product may be desirable from a consumer standpoint, efficiency and
cost in manufacturing and constructing (assembling) packaging may
be a consideration for manufactures and/or sellers of the
packaging. For example, environmental considerations may play a
role in developing packaging. Packaging made out of recyclable
and/or biodegradable material can reduce environmental impact.
Additionally, packaging that utilizes minimal resources, from a
material, energy, and/or labor perspective, may be desirable.
Further, packaging that requires a relatively small number of
manufacturing and/or assembly steps may reduce costs (e.g.,
manpower and machine costs) associated with the packaging.
Maintaining desired aesthetics and function of packaging in view of
such environmental and resource considerations can be a
challenge.
[0005] The packaging according to embodiments described herein, or
elements thereof, accomplish one or more of these and other
objectives.
[0006] Some embodiments are directed towards packaging having a
base including a cavity, a cable retainer disposed within the
cavity, the cable retainer including a panel extending across the
cavity, a plurality of fingers, each finger hingedly coupled to the
panel, and a plurality of flaps cut from the panel and hingedly
coupled to the panel, where each finger is attached to a flap to
thereby together define a passageway.
[0007] In some embodiments, each finger may be releasably attached
to the flap via an attachment member. In some embodiments, the
attachment members may include an adhesive.
[0008] In some embodiments, the passageways may extend parallel to
a lower surface of the cavity. In some embodiments, the packaging
may include a wound cable extending through the passageways. In
some embodiments, the wound cable may loop through the passageways
multiple times, and each loop of the wound cable that extends
through the passageways may be disposed on the same plane parallel
to the lower surface of the cavity. In some embodiments, the cavity
of the packaging may include a corner, and a plug of the cable may
be positioned adjacent to the corner outside of the loops of the
wound cable, such that contact between the plug and walls of the
corner inhibits rotation of the wound cable.
[0009] In some embodiments, the panel, the fingers, and the flaps
may be a single integrally formed piece.
[0010] In some embodiments, the panel of the cable retainer may be
disposed on a lower surface of the cavity, and the cable retainer
may have a maximum thickness of less than or equal to 7 millimeters
measured perpendicularly from the lower surface of the cavity.
[0011] In some embodiments, the base of the packaging may include a
product surface for supporting a product, and the cavity may be
formed in the product surface. In some embodiments, the cavity may
have a depth of less than or equal to 7 millimeters measured from
the product surface to a lower surface of the cavity. In some
embodiments, the cable retainer may be completely disposed within
the cavity.
[0012] In some embodiments, the hinged couplings between each
finger and the panel may be defined by grooves on the cable
retainer. In some embodiments, the hinged couplings between each
finger and the panel may be defined by fold lines on the cable
retainer.
[0013] In some embodiments, each finger may be hingedly coupled to
a segment that is hingedly coupled to the panel. In some
embodiments, the panel, the segments, the fingers, and the flaps
may define the passageways of the cable retainer.
[0014] In some embodiments, a free end of each finger attached to a
flap points in a direction opposite the direction that a free end
of the flap points.
[0015] In some embodiments, the cable retainer may be composed of a
paper-based product.
[0016] In some embodiments, the cable retainer may have the same
number of fingers as flaps. In some embodiments, the cable retainer
may include a pull tab coupled to the panel.
[0017] In some embodiments, the panel of the cable retainer may be
releasably coupled to a lower surface of the cavity.
[0018] Some embodiments are directed towards a cable retainer for
packaging a wound cable, the cable retainer including a single
foldable piece of material configured to fold from a flat
configuration to a folded configuration, the single foldable piece
of material including a panel, a plurality of fingers, each finger
hingedly coupled to the panel, and a plurality of flaps cut from
the panel and hingedly coupled to the panel, where, in the folded
configuration, each finger is folded towards a geometric center of
the panel and attached to a respective flap to define a plurality
of passageways for receiving a wound cable.
[0019] In some embodiments, the attachment between the fingers and
respective flaps may be a releasable attachment. In some
embodiments, the releasable attachments may include one or more of
an adhesive, a tab and slot coupling, a snap-fit coupling, and a
hook and loop fastener.
[0020] In some embodiments, the cable retainer may include a pull
tab hingedly coupled to the panel.
[0021] In some embodiments, the single foldable piece of material
may be composed of a paper-based product. In some embodiments, the
single foldable piece of material may be a compostable material. In
some embodiments, the single foldable piece of material may be a
recyclable material.
[0022] Some embodiments are directed towards a packaged cable
including a cable retainer in a folded configuration and a wound
cable extending through the passageways defined by the cable
retainer.
[0023] In some embodiments, the wound cable may loop through the
passageways defined by the cable retainer multiple times, each loop
of the wound cable that extends through the passageways may be
disposed on the same plane parallel to a top surface of the cable
retainer panel, and no loop of the wound cable may be disposed on
top of another loop of the wound cable.
[0024] Some embodiments are directed towards packaging including a
base having a cavity, a cable retainer in a folded configuration
disposed in the cavity, and a wound cable extending through the
passageways defined by the cable retainer.
[0025] Some embodiments, are directed towards a method of
assembling a packaged cable, the method including winding a cable
to form a wound cable including a plurality of cable loops, folding
a cable retainer about the wound cable, and positioning the cable
retainer and the wound cable in a cavity formed in a packaging
container, where folding the cable retainer includes folding flaps
cut from a panel of the cable retainer, folding fingers hingedly
coupled to the panel of the cable retainer, and attaching the
fingers to respective flaps to thereby define a plurality of
passageways through which the loops of the wound cable extend.
[0026] In some embodiments, each loop of the wound cable may be
disposed on the same plane parallel to a top surface of the cable
retainer panel. In some embodiments, the cable may be wound such
that each loop of the cable is in contact with immediately adjacent
loops along a majority of each loop.
[0027] Some embodiments are directed towards a blank for forming a
cable retainer, the blank including a central panel connected to a
plurality of fingers by a first set of upward fold lines and a
plurality of flaps cut from the central panel and connected to the
central panel by a second set of upward fold lines, where each
upward fold line in the first set of upward fold lines is oriented
parallel to an upward fold line in the second set of upward fold
lines.
[0028] In some embodiments, the blank may include a plurality of
segments, each segment may be disposed between the central panel
and a respective finger, the segments may be connected to the
fingers by the first set of upward fold lines, and the segments may
be connected to the central panel by a third set of upward fold
lines.
[0029] In some embodiments, the blank may include a pull tab
connected to the central panel by a fourth upward fold line.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] The disclosure will be readily understood by the following
detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements,
and in which:
[0031] FIG. 1 shows packaging according to an embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 2 shows a cable retainer in a flat configuration
according to an embodiment.
[0033] FIG. 3 shows a top view of a cable retainer in a partially
folded configuration according to an embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 4 shows a bottom view of a cable retainer in a
partially folded configuration according to an embodiment.
[0035] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view along the line 5-5' in
FIG. 1.
[0036] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a cable retainer folded
about a wound cable according to an embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 7 shows a bottom view of a cable retainer folded about
a wound cable according to an embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 8A shows a cable retainer blank according to an
embodiment.
[0039] FIG. 8B shows a cable retainer blank according to an
embodiment.
[0040] FIG. 8C shows a cable retainer blank according to an
embodiment.
[0041] FIG. 9 shows a cable retainer according to an
embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] Reference will now be made in detail to representative
embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be
understood that the following descriptions are not intended to
limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary,
it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and
equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the
described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.
[0043] References to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "some
embodiments," "an example embodiment," etc., indicate that the
embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure,
or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include
the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover,
such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment.
Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is
described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it
is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to effect such
feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other
embodiments whether or not explicitly described.
[0044] The packaging and cable retainers discussed herein may be
used to hold, display, and/or transport products, one or more
cables that receive or transmit power and/or data (e.g., audio or
video signals), or both. A cable (which may also be referred to as
a cord) typically has a length many times greater than its width.
For packaging, a cable may be coiled upon itself (i.e., wound) to
create a compact configuration to occupy a compact area, in order
to efficiently store/package the cable. A cable may be wound any
suitable number of times. Adjacent cable windings may be flush with
one another.
[0045] The packaging and cable retainers discussed herein may hold
and display wound cables in an aesthetically appealing and
consumer-friendly fashion. Packaging and cable retainers discussed
herein may maintain a wound cable in a compact configuration, which
may be aesthetically appealing to consumers. In some embodiments, a
cable retainer may be disposed in a cavity of a packaging container
and the cable retainer and cavity may work in concert to retain the
cable in a compact configuration. In some embodiments, a cable
retainer may be a standalone cable retainer provided to maintain a
wound cable in a compact configuration. Additionally, the
packaging, and in particular the cable retainer, may present a
wound cable in a fashion that facilitates easy removal of the cable
retainer and/or wound cable from the packaging by a consumer.
[0046] In some embodiments, the cable retainer may be presented in
such a way that a consumer intuitively knows how to remove the
cable retainer from a packaging container and/or undo the cable
retainer to free the retained cable. In some embodiments, a cable
retainer may be folded about the wound cable and secured to itself
(e.g., with an adhesive or other attachment member). The cable
retainer may present one or more free ends releasably attached to
other portions the cable retainer to a consumer. Pulling the free
ends may release the attachment between the cable retainer and the
packaging and/or between different portions of the cable retainer.
Pulling on the free ends may cause the cable retainer to unfold,
thereby allowing a wound cable to be removed from a packaging
container and/or the cable retainer. In some embodiments, the cable
retainer may be re-constructed (e.g., re-folded) by re-attaching
the free ends to respective portions of the cable retainer.
[0047] Additionally, the packaging and/or cable retainers may be
manufactured in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way.
In some embodiments, the cable retainer may be constructed of a
single integrally formed piece of material. The single integrally
formed piece of material may be a foldable material that is folded
into a configuration that holds and secures a wound cable, either
alone or within a cavity of a packaging container. In some
embodiments, the foldable material may be a single piece of
material that is cut by a single operation (e.g., a single die
cutting operation). In some embodiments, the foldable material may
be die cut from a stock material (e.g., a sheet or roll of
material). Single integrally formed pieces of material that are cut
by a single cutting operation may facilitate efficient and
reproducible manufacturing of cable retainers. Moreover, such
manufacturing may reduce waste by reducing waste material during
manufacturing.
[0048] Cable retainers discussed herein and features thereof may be
used to package merchandise other than wound cables. In such cases,
the cable retainer may be referred to as a "product retainer" or
"accessory retainer." For example, cable retainers discussed herein
may be used to package products having a cable (or cord) physically
attached to them, such as a wired headset, wired earphones, mouse,
keyboard, or other device. Also, packaging and cable retainers
discussed herein may be used to package non-wired products. For
example, the cable retainers discussed herein may be used to
package products/accessories with an opening or multiple
products/accessories such that the cable retainer may be folded
about the product(s)/accessory(ies). Such products/accessories may
include but are not limited to, wireless headphones, wireless
headsets, remote controls, or printed materials.
[0049] These and other embodiments are discussed below with
reference to the figures. However, those skilled in the art will
readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with
respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and
should not be construed as limiting.
[0050] Some embodiments include packaging 100 for protecting,
transporting, and/or displaying one or more consumer products.
Consumer products may be, but are not limited to, electronic
devices such as laptops, phones, multi-media devices, tablets,
gaming devices, keyboards, headsets, earphones, cameras, mice,
trackpads, remotes, and watches. Packaging 100 may also house one
or more wound cables (e.g., wound cable 160) associated with the
electronic device(s). A wound cable may be, for example, a power
cable (e.g., a 120/220 volt wall charger or inductive charger), or
a data cable. Data cables may include, but are not limited to, a
Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable (which may also deliver power), a
High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cable, or an Ethernet
cable. In some embodiments, packaging 100 may house only a wound
cable (i.e., the only merchandise within the packaging may be a
wound cable). Wound cable 160 may be held within a cavity (e.g.,
cavity 120) formed in packaging 100. In some embodiments, wound
cable 160 may be held and secured within cavity 120 with a cable
retainer (e.g., cable retainer 200).
[0051] As shown in FIG. 1, packaging 100 may include a base 110.
Base 110 includes sidewalls 112 defining a perimeter of base 110.
Base 110 may include a product surface 114 for supporting a product
(e.g., a consumer electronic device). In some embodiments, product
surface 114 may include a product cavity 116. Product cavity 116
may be sized and shaped to receive all or a portion of a product.
In some embodiments, product surface 114 and/or product cavity 116
may be sloped to accommodate the shape of a product. As shown in
FIG. 1, base 110 may include one or more cavities 120 formed
therein (e.g., in product surface 114). Each cavity 120 may be
defined by a vertical wall 122 extending from and surrounding a
horizontal wall 124. Horizontal wall 124 and/or vertical wall 122
may be configured to support a wound cable, a product, or a product
component/accessory within packaging 100. Horizontal wall 124
defines a lower surface 125 of cavity 120. In some embodiments,
horizontal wall 124 may be perpendicular to vertical wall 122.
[0052] Cable retainer 200 may be disposed in a cavity 120 and
configured to, among other things, hold wound cable 160 in place
within cavity 120, orient wound cable 160 within cavity 120, and
retain the winding of wound cable 160 such that adjacent cable
windings (loops) are flush with one another. Cable retainer 200 may
include a panel 210 that, when disposed within cavity 120, extends
across the cavity 120 (e.g., across lower surface 125 of cavity
120). In some embodiments, panel 210, or a portion thereof, may
extend completely across cavity 120 in one or more directions
(i.e., from one side of vertical wall 122 to an opposing side of
vertical wall 122). In such embodiments, panel 210 may hold wound
cable 160 in place within cavity 120 by preventing lateral movement
between opposing sides of vertical wall 122.
[0053] Cavities 120 may be sized and shaped to accommodate specific
products, product components/accessories, or wound cables. In other
words, vertical wall 122 and horizontal wall 124 may be sided and
shaped to accommodate specific products, product
components/accessories, or wound cables. In some embodiments, one
or more cavities 120 may have a depth 126 of less than or equal to
7 millimeters (e.g., measured from product surface 114 to lower
surface 125 of cavity 120). In some embodiments, cavity 120 with
cable retainer 200 disposed therein may have a maximum length 128
in the range of 95 millimeters to 105 millimeters. In some
embodiments, maximum length 128 may be 90 millimeters+/-2
millimeters. In some embodiments, cavity 120 with cable retainer
200 disposed therein may have a maximum width 130 in the range of
100 millimeters to 120 millimeters. In some embodiments, maximum
width 130 may be 109 millimeters+/-2 millimeters. In some
embodiments, vertical wall 122 may include a curved portion 132.
Curved portion 132 may have a curvature corresponding to an
exterior shape of wound cable 160 (or product, product
component/accessory). In some embodiments, a diameter of curved
portion 132 may equal length 128. In some embodiments, curved
portion 132 may aid in holding wound cable 160 within cavity 120
and may help inhibit undesired movement of wound cable 160 within
cavity 120.
[0054] In some embodiments, cavity 120 may include one or more
corners 134 defined by vertical wall 122 and configured to hold and
secure wound cable 160 within cavity 120. In such embodiments, a
plug 162 (e.g., USB plug) of wound cable 160 may be positioned
within cavity 120 such that plug 162 is adjacent to a corner 134
outside the loops 164 of wound cable 160. In such embodiments,
contact between plug 162 and portions of vertical wall 122 defining
the corner 134 may inhibit rotation of wound cable 160 within
cavity 120. In some embodiments, corner(s) 134 may be formed at
approximately a 90 degree angle.
[0055] In some embodiments, base 110 may be a single integrally
formed piece. In some embodiments, base 110 may include multiple
pieces. For example, in some embodiments, base 110 may include a
base box configured to receive all or a portion of a packaging
insert the same as or similar to the base boxes and packaging
inserts described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,011,
filed on Jun. 27, 2014, which is incorporated herein in its
entirety by reference thereto. In some embodiments, base 110 may
include a pedestal the same as or similar to the pedestals
described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/328,974, filed on
Jul. 11, 2014, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by
reference thereto.
[0056] Packaging may include a lid 150 having a top wall 152 and
sidewalls 154. When assembled in a closed configuration, lid 150
may be placed over base 110 and may receive at least a portion of
base 110. In some embodiments, lid 150 may receive the entire base
110. Lid 150 may be the same as or similar to the lids discussed in
U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 14/318,011 and 14/328,974.
[0057] In some embodiments, base 110 and/or lid 150 may be composed
of a recyclable and/or biodegradable (e.g., compostable) material.
In some embodiments, base 110 and/or lid 150 may be composed of a
paper-based product. Suitable paper-based products include, but are
not limited to, cardboard, paperboard (e.g., solid bleached sulfate
(SBS)), or molded fiber paper. In some embodiments, base 110 and/or
lid 150 may be composed of a molded fiber paper (e.g., a molded
fiber paper composed of 60 wt % to 70 wt % bamboo fibers and 30 wt
% to 40 wt % bagasse fibers). In some embodiments, base 110 and/or
lid 150 may be composed of one or more polymeric materials.
Suitable polymeric materials include, but are not limited to,
polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, polystyrene, polymer
blends including one or more of these polymers, or co-polymers
including one or more of these polymers.
[0058] As shown for example in FIGS. 2-4, cable retainer 200 may
include one or more fingers 220 hingedly coupled to panel 210 via a
hinged coupling 240. Hinged couplings 240 may include, but are not
limited to, structurally weakened regions on cable retainer 200.
Structurally weakened regions may include, but are not limited to,
grooves formed in cable retainer 200, fold lines, and perforated
lines. Grooves may be formed by removing material from a surface of
cable retainer 200. For example, grooves may be V-shaped or
U-shaped grooves formed in a surface of cable retainer 200. Fingers
220 may include a connection end 222 hingedly coupled to panel 210
at a hinged coupling 240 and a free end 224 not directly coupled to
panel 210. In some embodiments, fingers 220 may include an
attachment member 226. Attachment members 226 may be releasable
attachment members. In some embodiments, attachment members 226 may
be re-attachable attachment members. Attachment members 226 may
include an adhesive, a male or female portion of a mechanical
fastener (e.g., a hook portion of a hook and loop faster (e.g.,
Velcro.RTM.), or combination thereof. An attachment member 226 on a
finger 220 may be configured to attach to a flap 230 cut from panel
210 and/or a corresponding attachment member 236 located on flap
230.
[0059] Cable retainer 200 may also include one or more flaps 230
cut from panel 210 and hingedly coupled to panel 210. Flaps 230 may
be cut from panel 210 such that through holes 238 are formed in
panel 210 (see, e.g., FIGS. 3 and 4). Similar to fingers 220, each
flap 230 may be hingedly coupled to panel 210 via a hinged coupling
240. Also similar to fingers 220, flaps 230 may include a
connection end 232 hingedly coupled to panel 210 at a hinged
coupling 240 and a free end 234 not directly coupled to panel
210.
[0060] In some embodiments, flaps 230 may include an attachment
member 236. An attachment member 236 on a flap 230 may be
configured to attach to a finger 220 hingedly coupled to panel 210
and/or a corresponding attachment member 226 located on finger 220.
Attachment members 236 may be releasable attachment members. In
some embodiments, attachment members 236 may be re-attachable
attachment members. Attachment members 236 may include an adhesive,
a male or female portion of a mechanical fastener (e.g., a loop
portion of a hook and loop faster (e.g., Velcro.RTM.), or a
combination thereof. In some embodiments, attachment members
226/236 may include double-sided adhesive tape or other suitable
adhesive such as glue. In some embodiments, cable retainer 200 may
include the same number of flaps 230 as fingers 220. Each finger
220 of cable retainer 200 may be configured to attach to a
respective flap 230 via attachment members 226 and/or attachment
members 236. In some embodiments, cable retainer 200 may include
one finger 220 and one flap 230 configured to attach to each
other.
[0061] In some embodiments, one or more fingers 220 may be hingedly
coupled to a segment 250 that is hingedly coupled to panel 210. In
such embodiments, segment(s) 250 may include an interior end 252
hingedly coupled to panel 210 via a hinged coupling 240 and an
exterior end 254 hingedly coupled to finger 220. In some
embodiments, flaps 230 may be hingedly coupled to a segment 256
that is hingedly coupled to panel 210. Segments 256 may be the same
as or similar to segments 250. In some embodiments, segments 256
may have a length that is shorter than the length of segments 250.
In some embodiments, the difference between the length of segments
256 and the length of segments 250 may be equal to the thickness of
fingers 220. This may facilitate a flush attachment between fingers
220 and segments 230.
[0062] In some embodiments, cable retainer 200 may include a pull
tab 270. Pull tab 270 may include a connection end 272 hingedly
coupled to panel via a hinged coupling 240 and a free end 274 not
directly coupled to panel 210. In some embodiments, pull tab 270
may be coupled to panel 210 in the same or similar fashion as
finger(s) 220. In some embodiments, pull tab 270 may be cut from
panel 210 in the same or similar fashion as flap(s) 230.
[0063] In some embodiments, cable retainer 200 may be a single
foldable piece of material. In some embodiments, the single
foldable piece of material may be an integrally formed piece of
material (e.g., formed via injection molding, pressing, stamping,
and/or die cutting). In other words, panel 210, finger(s) 220,
flap(s) 230, segment(s) 250, segment(s) 256, and pull tab 270 may
be a single integrally formed piece. In some embodiments, the
foldable material may be a single piece of material that is cut
using a single processing step. For example, the foldable material
may be cut from a stock material (e.g., a sheet or roll of
material) by a single die cutting step.
[0064] In some embodiments, cable retainer 200 may be composed of a
recyclable material. In some embodiments, cable retainer 200 may be
composed of a biodegradable (e.g., compostable) material. In some
embodiments, cable retainer 200 may be composed of a paper-based
product. Suitable paper-based products include, but are not limited
to, cardboard or paperboard (e.g., solid bleached sulfate (SBS)).
In some embodiments, cable retainer 200 may be composed of a
polymeric material. Suitable polymeric materials include, but are
not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane,
polystyrene, polymer blends including one or more of these
polymers, or co-polymers including one or more of these polymers.
In some embodiments, all or some of the exterior surfaces of cable
retainer 200 may be laminated.
[0065] In operation, cable retainer 200 may be configured to fold
from a flat configuration (see e.g., FIG. 2) to a folded
configuration (see e.g., FIGS. 1, 6, and 7). In the folded
configuration, finger(s) 220, flap(s) 230, and segment(s) 250/256
may be folded about their respective hinged couplings 240 to folded
positions. When folded, each finger 220 may be folded towards a
center point 218 of panel 210 between fingers 220 (i.e., free ends
224 of each finger 220 may point towards center point 218). When in
the folded configuration, each flap 230 may be folded away from
center point 218 of panel 210 (i.e., free ends 234 of each flap 230
may point in the opposite direction as free ends 224 of fingers
220--away from center point 218). Center point 218 may be the
location on panel 210 around which fingers 220 and/or flaps 230 are
radially disposed.
[0066] When folded, fingers 220 may attach to flaps 230 via
attachment members 236 on flaps 230 and/or attachment members 226
on fingers 220 at attachment points 280 (see FIG. 5). In some
embodiments, the attachment between a finger 220 and a respective
flap 230 may be a releasable attachment. In some embodiments, the
attachment between a finger 220 and a respective flap 230 may be a
re-attachable attachment. The attachment between finger(s) 220 and
respective flap(s) 230 may include one or more of: an adhesive, a
tab and slot coupling, a snap-fit coupling, and a hook and loop
fastener (e.g., Velcro.RTM.).
[0067] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of cavity 120, cable
retainer 200, and wound cable 160 along the line 5-5' of FIG. 1
showing cable retainer 200 folded (i.e., in the folded
configuration) about wound cable 160 within cavity 120. When
disposed in cavity 120, panel 210 may be disposed on lower surface
125 of cavity 120. In some embodiments, a bottom surface 214 of
panel 210 may be in direct contact with lower surface 125 of cavity
120. In some embodiments, panel 210 may be attached to lower
surface 125 of cavity 120. In some embodiments, panel 210 may be
releasably attached to lower surface 125 of cavity 120 (e.g., via
an attachment member 216 disposed on bottom surface 214 of panel
210 (see e.g., FIG. 4)). In some embodiments, attachment member 216
may be disposed on lower surface 125 of cavity 120.
[0068] In the folded configuration, each finger 220 may be attached
to a respective flap 230 to, along with panel 210, define a
passageway 260. In embodiments including segments 250/256, segments
250/256 may also define a portion of passageway 260. In other
words, panel 210, finger(s) 220, flap(s) 230, and segment(s)
250/256 may define passageway(s) 260. In embodiments including
segments 250/256, segments 250/256 may define a vertical dimension
of passageway(s) 260 (i.e., in the vertical direction parallel to
vertical axis 600 in FIG. 6).
[0069] Passageway(s) 260 may be sized and shaped to receive a wound
cable 160 (e.g., a plurality of loops 164 of wound cable 160). In
some embodiments, segments 250 may abut an outermost loop 164 of
wound cable 160 and segments 256 may abut an innermost loop 164 of
wound cable 160 to aid in holding adjacent cable loops 164 flush
with one another in passageway 260. As used herein, cable loops 164
that are "flush" refers to adjacent cable loops 164 having
circumferential sidewalls 168 that are in contact with each other.
In some embodiments, segments 250 are the same length as a
thickness of cable 160, to define a height of passageway 260 that
is the same as the thickness of cable 160.
[0070] Panel 210, fingers 220, flaps 230, and segments 250/256 may
form passageways 260 that are closed except for in a radial
direction 602 around a vertical axis 600 extending through center
point 218 of panel 210 (see e.g., FIG. 6). In some embodiments,
passageways 260 may extend parallel to lower surface 125 of cavity
120, when a folded cable retainer 200 is disposed within a cavity
120 (i.e., lower surface 125 of cavity 120 may be parallel to
radial direction 602 when a folded cable retainer 200 is disposed
in a cavity 120).
[0071] In some embodiments, cable retainer 200 may be completely
disposed within cavity 120 in the folded configuration. In other
words, no portion of cable retainer 200 may extend from cavity 120
above product surface 114. In some embodiments, cable retainer 200
may have a maximum thickness 202 of less than or equal to 7
millimeters measured perpendicularly from lower surface 125 of
cavity 120 (see FIG. 5).
[0072] As shown in FIG. 5, wound cable 160 may extend through
passageways 260. In some embodiments, wound cable 160 may be looped
through passageways 260 multiple times (e.g., one or more loops 164
of wound cable 160 may extend though passageways 260). In some
embodiments, each loop 164 of wound cable 160 that extends through
passageways 260 is disposed on the same plane (e.g., plane 500 in
FIG. 5) parallel to lower surface 125 of cavity 120 (i.e., plane
502 in FIG. 5). In other words, the axial centers 166 of loops 164
may all be disposed on plane 500, which is parallel to plane 502.
In this configuration, no loop 164 of wound cable 160 is disposed
on top of another loop 164 of wound cable 160. Similarly, each loop
164 of wound cable 160 that extends through passageway 260 may be
disposed on the same plane 500 parallel to a top surface 212 of
panel 210 (i.e., axial centers 166 of loops 164 may all be disposed
on plane 500, which is parallel to top surface 212).
[0073] The length of fingers 220 may be such that, when folded, a
gap 228 is present between the free ends 224 of two or more fingers
220. Gap 228 may be sized such that the tip of a human finger may
fit in gap to facilitate gripping of a free end 224 of a folded
finger 220. For example, gap 228 may have a width of 15 millimeters
or more. In some embodiments, the free end 224 of one or more
fingers 220 may extend significantly beyond an attachment point 280
between finger 220 and a respective flap 230 (e.g., by 20
millimeters or more). In such embodiments, the portion of finger(s)
220 extending beyond attachment point 280 may provide a location
for a consumer to grip and pull finger 220. In this manner, fingers
220 may provide a visible and intuitive mechanism for undoing
(unfolding) cable retainer 200, thereby increasing the ease at
which a consumer may undo cable retainer 200. In a similar fashion,
pull tab 270 may provide a visible and intuitive mechanism for
removing cable retainer 200 from cavity 120.
[0074] FIGS. 8A-8C show cable retainer blanks 800, 810, and 820 for
forming a cable retainer according to various embodiments. Each
cable retainer blank 800/810/820 includes a central panel
802/812/822 with a center point 880. Similar to center point 218,
center point 880 of each cable retainer blank 800, 810, and 820 may
be located on central panel 802/812/822 at a point around which the
fingers and/or flaps of the cable retainer blank are radially
disposed. While FIGS. 8A-8C show embodiments with two, three, and
four fingers/flaps, cable retainer blanks may be used to form a
cable retainer with any number of finger/flap sets.
[0075] FIG. 8A shows cable retainer blank 800, which may be used to
form a cable retainer with two fingers the same as or similar to
cable retainer 200 discussed herein. Central panel 802 may be
connected to two fingers 804 by a first set of upward fold lines
830. Central panel 802 may also include two flaps 806 cut from
central panel 802 and connected to central panel 802 by a second
set of upward fold lines 840. Each upward fold line in the first
set of upward fold lines 830 may be oriented parallel to an upward
fold line in second set of upward fold lines 840. In some
embodiments, cable retainer blank 800 may include two finger
segments 805, each finger segment 805 being disposed between
central panel 802 and a respective finger 804. Finger segments 805
may be connected to central panel 802 by first set of upward fold
lines 830 and finger segments 805 may be connected to fingers 804
by a third set of upward fold lines 850. Each upward fold line in
the first set of upward fold lines 830 may be oriented parallel to
an upward fold line in the third set of upward fold lines 850.
[0076] In some embodiments, cable retainer blank 800 may include
two flap segments 807, each flap segment 807 being disposed between
central panel 802 and a respective flap 806. Each flap segment 807
may be connected to central panel 802 by second set of upward fold
lines 840 and flap segments 807 may be connected to flaps 806 by a
fourth set of upward fold lines 860. Each upward fold line in the
second set of upward fold lines 840 may be oriented parallel to an
upward fold line in the fourth set of upward fold lines 860.
[0077] In some embodiments, cable retainer blank 800 may include a
pull tab 803 connected to central panel 802 by a fourth upward fold
line 870. In some embodiments, fingers 804 may be located opposite
each other on opposite ends of central panel 802 (e.g., disposed
radially about center point 880 and separated by 180 degrees), as
shown in FIG. 8A. In some embodiments, fingers 804 may have
alternative arrangements. For example, fingers 804 may be disposed
radially about center point 880 such that they are separated by 90
degrees in one rotational direction and 270 degrees in the opposite
rotational direction.
[0078] FIG. 8B shows a cable retainer blank 810 that may be used to
form a cable retainer with three fingers. In some embodiments,
cable retainer blank 810 may have a central panel 812 that is
T-shaped, as shown in FIG. 8B. Central panel 812 may be connected
to three fingers 814 by a first set of upward fold lines 830.
Central panel 812 may also include three flaps 816 cut from central
panel 812 and connected to central panel 812 by a second set of
upward fold lines 840. Each upward fold line in the first set of
upward fold lines 830 may be oriented parallel to an upward fold
line in the second set of upward fold lines 840. In some
embodiments, cable retainer blank 810 may include three finger
segments 815, each finger segment 815 being disposed between
central panel 812 and a respective finger 814. Finger segments 815
may be connected to central panel 812 by first set of upward fold
lines 830 and finger segments 815 may be connected to fingers 814
by a third set of upward fold lines 850. Each upward fold line in
the first set of upward fold lines 830 may be oriented parallel to
an upward fold line in the third set of upward fold lines 850.
[0079] In some embodiments, cable retainer blank 810 may include
three flap segments 817, each flap segment 817 being disposed
between central panel 812 and a respective flap 816. Flap segments
817 may be connected to central panel 812 by second set of upward
fold lines 840 and flap segments 817 may be connected to flaps 816
by a fourth set of upward fold lines 860. Each upward fold line in
the second set of upward fold lines 840 may be oriented parallel to
an upward fold line in the fourth set of upward fold lines 860.
[0080] In some embodiments, cable retainer blank 810 may include a
pull tab 813 connected to central panel 812 by a fourth upward fold
line 870. In some embodiments, fingers 814 may be may be arranged
radially about center point 880 in a T-shaped fashion, as shown in
FIG. 8B. In some embodiments, fingers 814 may have alternative
arrangements. For example, fingers 814 may be connected to central
panel 812 such that each finger 814 is equilaterally arranged
radially about center point 880 (i.e., each finger 814 may be
separated from its neighbors by 120 degrees).
[0081] FIG. 8C shows a cable retainer blank 820 that may be used to
form a cable retainer with four fingers. In some embodiments, cable
retainer blank 820 may include a central panel 822 that is
cross-shaped, as shown in FIG. 8C. Central panel 822 may be
connected to four fingers 824 by a first set of upward fold lines
830. Central panel 822 may also include four flaps 826 cut from
central panel 822 and connected to central panel 822 by a second
set of upward fold lines 840. Each upward fold line in the first
set of upward fold lines 830 may be oriented parallel to an upward
fold line in the second set of upward fold lines 840. In some
embodiments, cable retainer blank 820 may include four finger
segments 825, each finger segment 825 being disposed between
central panel 822 and a respective finger 824. Finger segments 825
may be connected to central panel 822 by first set of upward fold
lines 830 and finger segments 825 may be connected to fingers 824
by a third set of upward fold lines 850. Each upward fold line in
the first set of upward fold lines 830 may be oriented parallel to
an upward fold line in the third set of upward fold lines 850.
[0082] In some embodiments, cable retainer blank 820 may include
four flap segments 827, each flap segment 827 being disposed
between central panel 822 and a respective flap 826. Flap segments
827 may be connected to central panel 822 by second set of upward
fold lines 840 and flap segments 827 may be connected to flaps 826
by a fourth set of upward fold lines 860. Each upward fold line in
the second set of upward fold lines 840 may be oriented parallel to
an upward fold line in the fourth set of upward fold lines 860.
[0083] In some embodiments, cable retainer blank 820 may include a
pull tab 823 connected to central panel 812 by a fourth upward fold
line 870. In some embodiments, pull tab 823 may be cut from central
panel 822 in the same or similar fashion as flaps 826. In some
embodiments, fingers 824 may be may be arranged about center point
880 in a cross-shaped fashion, as shown in FIG. 8C. In such
embodiments, each finger 824 may be equilaterally arranged radially
about center point 880 (i.e., each finger 814 may be separated from
its neighbors by 90 degrees).
[0084] FIG. 9 shows dimensions of a cable retainer 200 according to
an embodiment. In some embodiments, cable retainer 200 may have an
overall length 910 in the range of 175 millimeters to 155
millimeters. In some embodiments, overall length 910 may be
approximately 165 millimeters (as used herein in conjunction with a
stated value, "approximately" includes values within 5% of the
stated value). In some embodiments, panel 210 may have a panel
length 920 in the range of 80 millimeters to 100 millimeters. In
some embodiments, panel length 920 may be approximately 91
millimeters. In some embodiments, segments 250 may have a segment
length 930 in the range of 5 millimeters to 2.5 millimeters. In
some embodiments, segment length 930 may be approximately 3.5
millimeters. Segments 256 may have a segment length 940 the same as
or similar to segment length 930. In some embodiments, segments 256
may have a segment length 940 that is shorter than the segment
length 930 of segments 250. In some embodiments, the difference
between segment length 940 and segment length 930 may be equal to
the thickness of fingers 220. This may facilitate a flush
attachment between fingers 220 and segments 230. In some
embodiments, fingers 220 may have a thickness of approximately 0.4
millimeters. In some embodiments, panel 210, flaps 230, and
segments 250/256 may have the same thickness as fingers 220.
[0085] In some embodiments, flaps 230 may have a flap length 950 in
the range of 10 millimeters to 15 millimeters. In some embodiments,
flap length 950 may be approximately 12 millimeters. In some
embodiments, cable retainer 200 may have a passageway length 960 in
the range of 10 millimeters to 15 millimeters. In some embodiments,
passageway length 960 may be approximately 12 millimeters.
[0086] In some embodiments, cable retainer 200 may have a
panel/finger width 970 in the range of 10 millimeters to 20
millimeters. In some embodiments, panel/finger width 970 may be
approximately 15 millimeters. In some embodiments, pull tab 270 may
have a width 980 in the range of 10 millimeters to 20 millimeters.
In some embodiments, width 980 may be approximately 15 millimeters.
While FIG. 9 shows cable retainer 200 having two fingers 220, the
dimensions shown in FIG. 9 may apply to other cable retainer
embodiments (e.g., cable retainers with three or four fingers).
Additionally, the dimensions shown in FIG. 9 may be scaled up or
down depending on a specific cable, product, product component, or
product accessory. For example, the dimensions may be scaled up or
down depending on the length and diameter of cable to be wound and
packaged.
[0087] A wound cable (e.g., wound cable 160) may be packaged using
the following exemplary method. The order of the processes
discussed below is exemplary and may be rearranged depending on a
number of factors, for example, but not limited to, optimization of
the assembly process and the layout (e.g., the location of
equipment and/or process flow) of a production floor.
[0088] A cable may be wound to form a wound cable (e.g., wound
cable 160) with a plurality of cable loops (e.g., loops 164). In
some embodiments, the winding of the cable may be performed
manually. In some embodiments, the winding of the cable may be
performed using automated machinery. In some embodiments, the cable
is wound such that each loop of the cable is in contact with
immediately adjacent loops along a majority of each loop (i.e., the
circumferential sidewalls 168 of adjacent loops 164 are in contact
with each other along the majority of a loop 164). In some
embodiments, a temporary restraint may be applied to wound cable
160 to hold it in its wound configuration. In some embodiments, the
cable is wound from the outside in. An outside-in winding direction
can help ensure proper position of plug 162 within corner 134, as
described above, especially in the case where cable length may
vary.
[0089] After winding, a cable retainer blank (e.g., cable retainer
blank 800) may be folded about the wound cable, thereby forming a
cable retainer (e.g., cable retainer 200). The folding of the cable
retainer blank may include folding flaps (e.g., flaps 806) cut from
a panel (e.g., central panel 802) of the cable retainer blank,
folding fingers (e.g., fingers 804) hingedly coupled to the panel
of the cable retainer blank, and attaching the fingers to
respective flaps to thereby define a plurality of passageways
(e.g., passageways 260) through which the loops of the wound cable
extend. In some embodiments, an adhesive (e.g., double sided tape
or Velcro.RTM.) may be placed on the fingers and/or the flaps
before folding them. In some embodiments, the attachment between
the fingers and the flaps may be accomplished by features formed on
the fingers or the flaps (e.g., tabs and slots). In some
embodiments, the folding of cable retainer blank may be performed
manually. In some embodiments, the folding of the cable retainer
blank may be performed using automated machinery. After folding the
cable retainer about the wound cable, the temporary restraint, if
present, may be removed.
[0090] Once folded about the wound cable, the cable retainer and
the wound cable may be positioned within a cavity (e.g., cavity
120) formed in a packaging container (e.g., packaging 100). In some
embodiments, the cable retainer may be releasably attached to the
cavity (e.g., adhesively attached to a lower surface of the
cavity). In some embodiments, a plug (e.g., plug 162) of the wound
cable may be positioned adjacent to a corner (e.g., corner 134) of
the cavity outside of the wound cable's loops such that contact
between a plug and the walls of the corner inhibits rotation of the
wound cable within the cavity. This may help ensure that wound
cables are consistently positioned and oriented with cavities of
different packaging containers.
[0091] The foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments
described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and
description. These exemplary embodiments are not intended to be
exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms
disclosed. All specific details described are not required in order
to practice the described embodiments.
[0092] It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that
many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above
teachings, and that by applying knowledge within the skill of the
art, one may readily modify and/or adapt for various applications
such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, without
departing from the general concept of the present invention(s).
Such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the
meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments,
based on the teaching and guidance presented herein.
[0093] The Detailed Description section is intended to be used to
interpret the claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set
forth one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of the present
invention(s) as contemplated by the inventor(s), and thus, are not
intended to limit the present invention(s) and the appended
claims.
[0094] The present invention(s) have been described above with the
aid of functional building blocks illustrating the implementation
of specified functions and relationships thereof. The boundaries of
these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined
herein for the convenience of the description. Alternate boundaries
can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships
thereof are appropriately performed.
[0095] The phraseology or terminology used herein is for the
purpose of description and not limitation, such that the
terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be
interpreted by the skilled artisan.
[0096] The breadth and scope of the present invention(s) should not
be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but
should be defined only in accordance with the claims and their
equivalents.
* * * * *