U.S. patent application number 14/988799 was filed with the patent office on 2017-07-06 for soup box container.
The applicant listed for this patent is OTB Packaging, LLC. Invention is credited to Webb LeRon Hill.
Application Number | 20170190501 14/988799 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59226023 |
Filed Date | 2017-07-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170190501 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hill; Webb LeRon |
July 6, 2017 |
SOUP BOX CONTAINER
Abstract
A blank for a sleeve includes a plurality of panels, each of the
plurality of panels hingedly coupled to an adjacent one of the
plurality of panels. A top panel is hingedly coupled to an end of a
first one of the plurality of panels. The top panel includes a
first section and a second section hingedly coupled to the first
section. The first section has an aperture formed therein. The
aperture is configured to receive a portion of a container
therethrough. The second section has a recess formed in an edge
thereof. A first flap is hingedly coupled to an end of a second one
of the plurality of panels. A retaining tab is formed in in a least
one of the first flap and the second one of the plurality of
panels.
Inventors: |
Hill; Webb LeRon; (Toledo,
OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
OTB Packaging, LLC |
Toledo |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
59226023 |
Appl. No.: |
14/988799 |
Filed: |
January 6, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 77/06 20130101;
B65D 5/46024 20130101; B65D 5/106 20130101; B65D 5/5014 20130101;
B65D 77/245 20130101; B65D 81/3876 20130101; B65D 5/4266 20130101;
B65D 5/46008 20130101; B65D 77/0426 20130101; B65D 5/6608
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 81/38 20060101
B65D081/38; B65D 5/42 20060101 B65D005/42; B65D 5/46 20060101
B65D005/46; B65D 5/10 20060101 B65D005/10; B65D 77/06 20060101
B65D077/06 |
Claims
1. A blank for a sleeve comprising: a plurality of panels, each of
the plurality of panels hingedly coupled to an adjacent one of the
plurality of panels; a top panel hingedly coupled to an end of a
first one of the plurality of panels, the top panel including a
first section and a second section hingedly coupled to the first
section, the first section having an aperture formed therein, the
aperture configured to receive a portion of a container
therethrough, the second section having a recess formed in an edge
thereof; a first flap hingedly coupled to an end of a second one of
the plurality of panels; and a retaining tab formed in at least one
of the first flap and the second one of the plurality of panels, a
portion of the retaining tab detachable from the at least one of
the first flap and the second one of the plurality of panels.
2. The blank of claim 1, wherein a shape of the retaining tab
substantially conforms to a shape of the recess.
3. The blank of claim 1, wherein the retaining tab is formed in the
first flap and a perimeter of the retaining tab is defined by a
fold line and a perforated line.
4. The blank of claim 1, wherein the retaining tab is partially
formed in the second one of the plurality of panels and a perimeter
of the retaining tab is defined by a fold line and a perforated
line.
5. The blank of claim 1, wherein a third one of the plurality of
panels is disposed intermediate the first one of the plurality of
panels and the second one of the plurality of panels.
6. The blank of claim 5, wherein the third one of the plurality of
panels includes a second flap hingedly coupled to an end
thereof.
7. The blank of claim 1, wherein the first section of the top panel
includes a pair of slits and the second section includes a pair of
tabs extending from the edge thereof, the pair of tabs aligning
with the pair of slits, the recess formed intermediate the pair of
tabs.
8. The blank of claim 1, wherein the top panel includes a third
section and a fourth section hingedly coupled to and extending
laterally outwardly from the first section, each of the third
section and the fourth section having a first end adjacent the
plurality of panels and a second end opposite the first end,
wherein the first end is tapered.
9. The blank of claim 8, wherein the second end of each of the
third section and the fourth section is tapered.
10. A container assembly for use in containing a food product
comprising: a receptacle having a mouth defining an opening, the
receptacle configured to receive a liquid or semi-liquid food
product; a sleeve having a plurality of sidewalls forming a cavity,
the sleeve including a cover hingedly coupled to a first one of the
plurality of sidewalls and moveable from an open position to a
closed position, the cover including a top wall and plurality of
partitions extending outwardly from the top wall, a first one of
the plurality of partitions having a depression formed on an inner
surface thereof; and a retaining tab hingedly coupled to a second
one of the plurality of sidewalls, the retaining tab cooperating
with the depression in the closed position of the cover to maintain
the cover in the closed position.
11. The container assembly of claim 10, further comprising an
insulation layer at least partially enveloping the receptacle and
retained by the sleeve.
12. The container assembly of claim 10, wherein an edge of the
retaining tab engages a perimeter surface defining the depression
in the closed position of the cover.
13. The container assembly of claim 10, wherein the retaining tab
folds against an outer surface of the second one of the plurality
of sidewalls in the closed position of the cover.
14. The container assembly of claim 10, wherein the sleeve includes
a flap hingedly coupled to the second one of the plurality of
sidewalls, the flap configured to converge towards the receptacle,
the flap disposed beneath the cover in the closed position of the
cover.
15. The container assembly of claim 14, wherein an edge of the flap
has an arcuate shape.
16. The container assembly of claim 15, wherein the edge of the
flap has a linear portion.
17. A kit comprising: at least one blank formable into a sleeve,
the sleeve including a plurality of sidewalls and a cover hingedly
coupled to a first one of the plurality of sidewalls, the cover
including a plurality of partitions extending outwardly therefrom,
a first one of the plurality of partitions having a depression
formed on an inner surface thereof, a second one of the plurality
of sidewalls having a retaining tab hingedly coupled thereto, the
retaining tab cooperating with the depression to maintain the cover
in a closed position; at least one receptacle configured to contain
at least one of a liquid and a semi-liquid food product and having
a mouth defining an opening; and at least one insulation layer
configured to envelope the receptacle.
18. The kit of claim 17, further comprising a utensil.
19. The kit of claim 17, further comprising a handle.
20. The kit of claim 17, wherein the sleeve includes a flap
hingedly coupled to the second one of the plurality of sidewalls,
the flap configured to converge towards the receptacle, the flap
disposed beneath the cover in the closed position of the cover.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates to a container for transporting food
products and more particularly to a container assembly for
transporting and thermally insulating soup.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Many commercial prepared food retailers, restaurants,
catering services, and the like provide catering, delivery, or
to-go services for consumers for multi-person gatherings such as
meetings, parties, or other events. Due to factors such as speed,
affordability, and health, soup has become an increasingly common
and desired food option for consumers. In order to provide for
multi-person gatherings, portable bulk soup containers exist in
order to transport the soup from the food provider's facility to
the designated location of the gathering.
[0003] However, many problems exist in transporting soup.
Initially, certain soups must maintain a certain range of
temperatures for quality assurance and/or regulatory reasons.
Current containers are unable to substantially maintain the desired
range of temperatures of the soup. Additionally, soup ladles or
other similar serving utensils are the simplest and most efficient
means for serving soup from the container to an individual.
However, some hulk soup containers do not provide an opening that
is large enough or an ergonomic shape that is conducive to receive
the soup ladle or serving utensils while also providing an
efficient means for filling the container with the food product.
Furthermore, some bulk soup containers can be unwieldy and unable
to withstand the weight of the bulk soup. Certain containers can
also be difficult to assemble.
[0004] It would therefore be desirable to provide a portable
container assembly for transporting soup that is sturdy,
ergonomically configured, and substantially maintains a desired
temperature of the soup that can also be easily manufactured and
assembled.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Compatible and attuned with the present invention, a
portable container assembly and method of assembling a portable
container assembly for transporting soup that is sturdy,
ergonomically configured, and substantially maintains a desired
temperature of the soup that can also be easily manufactured and
assembled has surprisingly been discovered.
[0006] According to an embodiment of the invention a blank for a
sleeve is disclosed. The blank includes a plurality of panels each
hingedly coupled to an adjacent one of the plurality of panels. A
top panel is hingedly coupled to an end of a first one of the
plurality of panels. The top panel includes a first section and a
second section hingedly coupled to the first section. The first
section has an aperture formed therein. The aperture is configured
to receive a portion of a container therethrough. The second
section has a recess formed in an edge thereof. A first flap is
hingedly coupled to an end of a second one of the plurality of
panels. A retaining tab is formed in at least one of the first flap
and the second one of the plurality of panels. A portion of the
retaining tab is detachable from the at least one of the first flap
and the second one of the plurality of panels.
[0007] According to another embodiment of the invention a container
assembly for use in containing a food product is disclosed. The
container assembly includes a receptacle having a mouth defining an
opening. The receptacle is configured to receive a liquid or
semi-liquid food product. The container assembly includes a sleeve.
The sleeve has a plurality of sidewalls forming a cavity. The
sleeve includes a cover hingedly coupled to a first one of the
plurality of sidewalls and moveable from an open position to a
closed position. The cover includes a top wall and plurality of
partitions extending from the top wall. A first one of the
plurality of partitions has a depression formed on an inner surface
thereof. A retaining tab is hingedly coupled to a second one of the
plurality of sidewalls. The retaining tab cooperates with the
depression in the closed position of the cover to maintain the
cover in the closed position.
[0008] According to another embodiment of the invention, a kit
includes at least one blank formable into a sleeve. The sleeve
including a plurality of sidewalls and a cover hingedly coupled to
a first one of the plurality of sidewalls. The cover includes a
plurality of partitions extending therefrom. A first one of the
plurality of partitions has a depression formed on an inner surface
thereof. A second one of the plurality of sidewalls has a retaining
tab hingedly coupled thereto. The retaining tab cooperates with the
depression to maintain the cover in a closed position. The kit
includes at least one receptacle configured to contain at least one
of a liquid and a semi-liquid food product. The receptacle has a
mouth defining an opening. The kit further includes at least one
insulation layer configured to envelope the receptacle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The above, as well as other objects and advantages of the
invention, will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art
from reading the following detailed description of a preferred
embodiment of the invention when considered in the light of the
accompanying drawings which:
[0010] FIG. 1 is an assembled left side perspective view of a
container assembly according to an embodiment of the invention,
wherein a lid of the container is in a closed position;
[0011] FIG. 2 is an exploded left side perspective view of the
container assembly of FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 3 an assembled top perspective view of the container
assembly of FIGS. 1-2, wherein the lid of the container is in an
open position and portions of a sleeve of the container are
partially cut away;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the
container assembly of FIG. 1 taken along the line 4-4, wherein a
retaining tab is engaging with a depression formed in the lid of
the container;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of a blank for forming the outer
shell of the container assembly of FIGS. 1-4; and
[0015] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a blank for forming an outer
shell of a container assembly according to another embodiment of
the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0016] The following detailed description and appended drawings
describe and illustrate various embodiments of the invention. The
description and drawings serve to enable one skilled in the art to
make and use the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope
of the invention in any manner. The terms "bottom," "top," and
"side" are for purposes of relative orientation only and not as an
absolute position. In respect of the methods disclosed, the steps
presented are exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps
is not necessary or critical.
[0017] FIGS. 1-4 illustrate a portable container assembly 10
configured to contain and transport a liquid or semi-liquid food
product such as soup according to an embodiment of the invention.
However, it is understood the container assembly 10 can be used to
contain other food products such as sauces, gravy, dips, drinks, or
any other liquid, non-liquid, or semi-liquid food products, as
desired. The container assembly 10 includes a receptacle 12, an
insulation layer 14, and a sleeve 16.
[0018] The receptacle 12 is configured for receiving the food
product and may or may not include a handle. In certain
embodiments, the receptacle 12 is formed of plastic such as high
density polyethelyne configured to tolerate a food product with a
high temperature. Other materials such as polypropylene,
polycarbonate, polyethylene pterethalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride
(PVC), or other plastics can be employed depending on the desired
food product, and the temperature thereof, to be received in the
receptacle 12. However, it is understood the receptacle 12 can be
formed from any durable material as desired such as metal or foam,
for example, without departing from the scope of the instant
disclosure. In a non-limiting example, the receptacle 12 is a bulk
soup receptacle configured to contain soup in bulk such as a
receptacle configured to contain 64 ounces or 128 ounces. The
receptacle 12 is configured to contain food products having
temperatures of about 180 degrees Fahrenheit or 82.2 degrees
Celsius.
[0019] The receptacle 12 includes an annular mouth 17 defining an
opening 18 configured to receive the food product and a serving
utensil 15 therethrough. The mouth 17 can be any diameter as
desired. In a non-limiting example, the diameter of the mouth is 89
to 110 millimeters or greater to facilitate receiving the utensil
15. A lid 19 is coupled to the mouth 17 of the receptacle 12 to
selectively cover the opening 18 of the receptacle 12. The
receptacle 12 is any receptacle such as a bottle or pouch, for
example, configured to hold food products according to safety and
regulatory requirements.
[0020] The receptacle 12 is at least partially received by the
insulation layer 14. The insulation layer 14 is configured to
insulate the receptacle 12 containing the food product and
substantially maintain a temperature thereof. In certain
embodiments, the insulation layer 14 is configured to substantially
maintain the temperature of a cold food product or substantially
maintain the temperature of a hot food product. In certain
embodiments, the insulation layer 14 is a preformed, metallized,
single-bubble, Y-Fold wrap formed by a heat seal process that
envelopes a portion of the receptacle 12. However, the insulation
layer 14 can be any material configured to insulate the receptacle
12 such as a foam, an expanded polystyrene (EPS), a wood based
material, a foil, or any other material or combination of materials
configured to insulate the food product, for example. Additionally,
it is understood the insulation layer 14 can envelope an entirety
of the receptacle 12, if desired.
[0021] The receptacle 12 and the insulation layer 14 are received
within the sleeve 16, wherein the insulation layer 14 is interposed
between the receptacle 12 and the sleeve 16. The sleeve 16 is
collapsible and includes a bottom 25 having an automatic bottom
set-up, constructed by means of hinged-together bottom flaps
(further described hereinbelow), that securely closes the bottom 25
of the sleeve 16. However, it is understood the sleeve 16 can
include other types of bottoms now known or later discovered
without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The sleeve 16
is formed from a material such as solid bleached sulphate (SBS)
paperboard, E-flute natural kraft corrugated, or any other style
fiberboard. The sleeve 16 includes a first sidewall 26a, a second
sidewall 26b, a third sidewall 26c, and a fourth sidewall 26d
cooperating with each other to define a cavity 28 for receiving the
receptacle 12 and the insulation layer 14. It is understood, the
sleeve 16 can include any number of sidewalls such as more than
four sidewalls or fewer than four sidewalls, as desired.
[0022] The sleeve 16 includes a cover 20. The cover 20 has a top
wall 21, a first partition 30a, a second partition 30b, and a third
partition 30c. The top wall 21 is hingedly coupled to the fourth
sidewall 26d for movement between a closed position, as shown in
FIG. 1, and an open position, as shown in FIGS. 2-3. The partitions
30a, 30b, 30c extend from the top wall 21 and partially overlap the
first sidewall 26a, the second sidewall 26b, and the third sidewall
26c in the closed position. It is understood more than or fewer
than three partitions can be employed, as desired. In certain
embodiments, a slot 22 is formed in the top wall 21. The slot 22 is
configured for receiving the utensil 15. More than one slot 22 can
be formed in the cover 20, as desired, to receive various
utensils.
[0023] In the embodiment illustrated, the cover 20 further includes
a pair of tabs 32 cooperating with a pair of slits 34 configured to
facilitate forming and reinforcing the cover 20. The pair of slits
34 are formed adjacent an edge of the top wall 21 and the pair of
tabs 32 extend from the first partition 30a to engage with the pair
of slits 34.
[0024] The cover 20 includes a rim 23 defining an aperture 24
formed in the top wall 21 thereof. The aperture 24 is configured to
receive a portion of the receptacle 12. The aperture 24
substantially corresponds to a shape of the mouth 17 of the
receptacle 12. In the embodiment illustrated, the rim 23 includes a
substantially curvilinear portion 23a and a substantially linear
portion 23b to define a segmented circular shape of the aperture
24. The linear portion 23b is configured to engage with a portion
of the receptacle 12 to secure the cover 20 in the closed position.
However, it is understood the rim 23 can include any number of
curvilinear or linear portions to define any shape of the aperture
24, as desired, such as circular, ovular, polygonal, or any other
shape for example.
[0025] The sleeve 16 further includes a handle 36 coupled thereto
and configured to facilitate transporting the container assembly
10. The handle 36 shown is an elongate plastic rope handle having
substantially T-shaped ends. Each of the ends of the handle 36 is
inserted through a respective slot 38 formed in the second sidewall
26b and the third sidewall 26c of the sleeve 16. The ends of the
handle 36 engage with an interior surface of the sidewalls 26b, 26c
so that the handle 36 can support the container assembly 10 during
transportation thereof It is understood other handle types and
configurations can be used, as desired.
[0026] The sleeve 16 further includes a first flap 40a, a second
flap 40b, and a third flap 40c hingedly coupled to and extending
from the first sidewall 26a, the second sidewall 26b, and the third
sidewall 26c, respectively. The flaps 40a, 40b, 40c are configured
to converge inwardly towards the mouth 17 of the receptacle 12
retained in the sleeve 16. In the closed position, the flaps 40a,
40b, 40c are disposed beneath the top wall 21 of the cover 20,
wherein the cover 20 cooperates with the flaps 40a, 40b, 40c to
maintain an inwardly converging position of the flaps 40a, 40b, 40c
with respect to the sleeve 16. When the cover 20 is in the closed
position, the flaps 40a, 40b, 40c disposed beneath the top wall 21
are substantially concealed by the top wall 21. In the embodiment
shown, the sleeve 16 includes three flaps 401, 40b, 40c and the
edges 42 of the flaps 40a, 40b, 40c have an arcuate shape to
correspond to a substantially circular shaped mouth 17. It is
understood, the sleeve 16 can include any number of flaps 40a, 40b,
40c such as one flap, two flaps, four flaps, five flaps, six flaps,
eight flaps, etc. The flaps 40a, 40b, 40c cooperate with the cover
20 to facilitate improved insulation and durability of the
container assembly 10.
[0027] As more clearly illustrated in FIGS. 2-4, a depression 44 is
formed on an inner surface 45 of the first partition 30a of the
cover 20. The depression 44 is formed on the inner surface 45 of
the first partition 30a of the cover 20 at a distance from a distal
edge of the first partition 30a. It is understood the depression 44
can be formed on the second partition 30b or the third partition
30c, if desired. The depression 44 is configured to receive a
retaining tab 48 hingedly coupled to the first sidewall 26a of the
sleeve 16. In the embodiment illustrated, the retaining tab 48 is
hingedly coupled to an upper end of the first sidewall 26a.
However, it is understood the retaining tab 48 can be coupled to
the first sidewall 26a at a distance from the upper end of the
first sidewall 26a.
[0028] In the open position of the cover 20, the retaining tab 48
extends outwardly from the first sidewall 26a. In the closed
position of the cover 20, the retaining tab 48 folds against an
outer surface of the first sidewall 26a. Advantageously, in the
closed position, the retaining tab 48 cooperates with the
depression 44 to maintain the cover 20 in the closed position. An
edge 49 of the retaining tab 48 engages a perimeter surface 43
defining the depression 44 to prevent the cover 20 from pivotally
moving from the closed position. It is understood the retaining tab
48 can be coupled to the second sidewall 26b or the third sidewall
26c, if desired. Additionally, the depression 44 can be formed on
the second partition 30b or the third partition 30c to correspond
to the position of the retaining tab 48, if desired.
[0029] The depression 44 has a shape substantially corresponding to
a shape of the retaining tab 48. As shown, the depression 44 and
the retaining tab 48 have a substantially rectangular shape with a
pair of bevelled corners. However, the depression 44 and the
retaining tab 48 can have other shapes, if desired. The depression
44 has a depth substantially equal to a thickness of the retaining
tab 48 to militate against a movement of the first partition 30a
outwardly from the sleeve 16.
[0030] As shown in FIG. 5, the shell 16 is formed from a one-piece
blank 50 made from a corrugated material, flute styled corrugated
fiberboard, or any other style corrugated fiberboard. However,
similar paper-based materials, having similar performance
characteristics, may be employed if desired as well as corrugated
plastics or non-corrugated plastics, or other foldable material.
The blank 50 includes a first panel 52, a second panel 54, a third
panel 56, and a fourth panel 58 to form the respective sidewalls
26a, 26b, 26c, 26d. The panels 52, 54, 56, 58 are each hingedly
coupled to at least one adjacent panel 52, 54, 56, 58 along fold
lines 51. The fold lines 51 can be formed by perforations, scored
marks, or any other means to hingedly couple the panels 52, 54. 56,
58 to each other. A securement tab 59 is hingedly coupled to the
second panel 54 and configured to facilitate formation of the
sidewalls 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d.
[0031] The blank 50 further includes a first bottom flap 62
hingedly coupled to a first end of the first panel 52, a second
bottom flap 64 hingedly coupled to a first end of the second panel
54, a third bottom flap 66 hingedly coupled to a first end of the
third panel 56, and a fourth bottom flap 68 hingedly coupled to a
first end of the fourth panel 58. The bottom flaps 62, 64, 66, 68
cooperate with each other to form the bottom 25 of the sleeve 16.
The bottom flaps 62, 64, 66, 68 are each hingedly coupled to the
respective panels 52, 54, 56, 58 along fold lines 61. The fold
lines 61 can be formed by perforations, scored marks, or the like,
for example. In certain embodiments, the second bottom flap 64 and
the third bottom flap 66 can include securement tabs 69 hingedly
coupled thereto to facilitate formation of the bottom 25 of the
sleeve 16. Although, it is understand additional securement tabs 69
can be included on any of the bottom flaps, as desired.
[0032] The blank 50 further includes the flaps 40a, 40b, 40c as
described hereinabove. The first flap 40a is hingedly coupled to a
second end of the first panel 52, the second flap 40b is hingedly
coupled to a second end of the second panel 54, and the third flap
40c is hingedly coupled to a second end of the third panel 56. The
flaps 40a, 40b, 40c are each hingedly coupled to the respective
panels 52, 54, 56 along fold lines 41. The fold lines 41 can be
formed by perforations, scored marks, or the like, for example. The
retaining tab 48 is formed in the first flap 40a and is defined by
a portion of the fold line 41 and a perforated line 41a.
[0033] A top panel 70 configured to form the cover 20 of the shell
16 is hingedly coupled to a second end of the fourth panel 58 along
a fold line 71. The fold line 71 can be formed by perforations,
scored marks, or the like, for example. The top panel 70 is divided
into a first section 72, a second section 74, a third section 76,
and a fourth section 78. The sections 72, 74, 76, 78 are hingedly
coupled to each other along fold lines 81. The fold lines 81 can be
formed by perforations, scored marks, or the like, for example.
[0034] The first section 72 is disposed adjacent the fold line 71
and forms the top wall 21 of the cover 20. The first section 72
includes the aperture 24 and the pair of slits 34 for receiving the
pair of tabs 32 formed therein. In certain embodiments, the first
section 72 additionally includes a knock-out portion 80 for forming
the slot 22 of the cover 20 of the shell 16. The knock-out portion
80 is disposed adjacent the fold line 71 and is defined by a
portion of the fold line 71 and a perforated line 82. However, it
is understood, the knock-out portion 80 can be disposed at any
portion of the top panel 70 as desired and can be configured to be
completely removed or hingedly coupled to the first section 72.
[0035] The second section 74, the third section 76, and the fourth
section 78 form the partitions 30a, 30b, 30c, respectively. The
third section 76 and the fourth section 78 each extend laterally
from opposing sides of the first section 72. An engagement tab 90
is hingedly coupled to each of the third section 76 and the fourth
section 78 along fold lines 91. The engagement tabs 90 are
configured to facilitate formation of the cover 20. The second
section 74 extends from the edge of the first section 72 opposing
the fold line 71. Each of the third section 76 and the fourth
section 78 has a substantially constant width. A first end of each
of the third section 76 and the fourth section 78 adjacent the
panels 52, 54, 56, 58 is tapered, wherein the width decreases at a
constant rate towards the panels 52, 54, 56, 58. The tapered first
end militates against an interference of the third sub-section 76
and the fourth sub-section 78 with the respective flaps 40b,
40c.
[0036] The second section 74 is divided into a first sub-section 84
adjacent the first section 72, a second sub-section 86, and a third
sub-section 88. The sub-sections 84, 86, 88 are hingedly coupled to
each other along perforated fold lines 92. The first sub-section 84
and the third sub-section 88 each have a width substantially equal
to a second end of the third section 76 and the fourth section 78.
The second sub-section 86 is disposed intermediate the first
sub-section 84 and the third sub-section 88 and has a width
substantially equal to a thickness of the engagement tabs 90. The
pair of tabs 32 extend outwardly from a distal edge of the third
sub-section 88. The third sub-section 88 includes a recess 93
formed intermediate the pair of tabs 32 in the distal edge of the
third sub-section 88. It is understood the top panel 70 can include
other configurations as desired. For example, the top panel 70 can
include any number of sections and sub-sections to form the cover
20.
[0037] To assemble the shell 16 from the blank 50, the sidewalls
26a, 26b, 26c, 26d are formed by folding the panels 52, 54, 56, 58
along the fold lines 51 and securing the securement tab 59 to the
first panel 52. The bottom flaps 62, 64, 66, 68 are folded along
the fold lines 61 and cooperate with each other to form the bottom
25 of the sleeve 16. The flaps 40a, 40b, 40c are folded along the
fold lines 41 to converge inwardly with respect to the shell 16.
The top panel 70 is then manipulated to form the cover 20 of the
shell 16.
[0038] To form the cover 20, the second section 74, the third
section 76, and the fourth section 78 are folded along fold lines
81 towards the sidewalls 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d. The third section 76
and the fourth section 78 form the second partition 30b and the
third partition 30c, respectively. The engagement tabs 90 are then
folded along fold lines 91 towards each other to abut an inner
surface of the second section 74 at the first sub-section 84
thereof. The second section 74 is folded upon itself along the fold
lines 91 to envelope the engagement tabs 90 and form the first
partition 30a. The second section 74 envelopes the engagement tabs
90 so the first sub-section 84 is substantially parallel to the
third sub-section 88 and the second sub-section 86 is substantially
perpendicular to the first sub-section 84 and the third sub-section
88. The pair of tabs 32 cooperate with the pair of slits 34 to
maintain the second section 74 in a position enveloped about the
engagement tabs 90 to form and reinforce the first partition 30a.
The recess 93 of the third sub-section 88 cooperates with the first
sub-section 84 to form the depression 44 in the first partition 30a
of the cover 20.
[0039] Once formed, the cover 20 can then be folded about the fold
line 71 to move from the open position to the closed position as
desired. The retaining tab 48 can be detached along the perforated
line 41a to position the retaining tab 48 in a position extending
outwardly from the first sidewall 26a and the first flap 40a of the
sleeve 16. The knock-out portion 80 of the blank 50 can be
separated along the perforated lines 82 and folded along the fold
line 71 to form the slot 22 for receiving the utensil 15.
[0040] To assemble the container assembly 10, the receptacle 12 is
positioned within the insulation layer 14 so that the insulation
layer 14 either partially or entirely envelopes the receptacle 12.
The sleeve 16 can be stored flat and easily opened by forming and
securing the bottom 25. The receptacle 12 and insulation layer 14
are positioned within the sleeve 16 so the sleeve 16 covers a
substantial portion of the receptacle 12 and insulation layer 14.
The flaps 40a, 40b, 40c are folded about the fold lines 41 and are
urged to an inwardly converging position to engage with the mouth
17 of the receptacle 12 or the lid 19. The cover 20 is moved from
the open position to the closed position so that the mouth 17 and
the lid 19 are received through the aperture 24 formed therein. As
the cover 20 moves from the open position to the closed position,
the inner surface 45 of the first partition 30a contacts the
retaining tab 48 and applies force thereto. The force applied to
the retaining tab 48 causes the retaining tab 48 to pivot about the
fold line 41 and fold against the outer surface of the first
sidewall 26a of the sleeve 16. In the closed position, the
retaining tab 48 is received in the depression 44 of the cover 20.
The edge 49 of the retaining tab 48 engages the perimeter surface
43 of the depression 44 to prevent the cover 20 from moving towards
the open position and maintain the cover 20 in the closed position.
Additionally, in certain embodiments, the substantially linear
portion 23b of the rim 23 engages with the mouth 17 and/or the lid
19 to maintain the cover 20 in the closed position.
[0041] Each of the ends of the handle 36 are inserted through a
respective slot 38 formed in the second sidewall 26b and the third
sidewall 26c so that the container assembly 10 can be easily and
safely transported. The utensil 15 can be inserted through the slot
22.
[0042] In application, the receptacle 12 is filled with a food
product such as hot soup. The mouth 17 of the receptacle 12
facilitates quick transfer of the food product to the receptacle
12. The lid 19 is coupled to the receptacle 12 to close the opening
18. Advantageously, the insulation layer 14 insulates the food
product within the receptacle 12 thereby facilitating a minimal
temperature drop over a period of time such as the time of travel
from the food retailers to a designated delivery event location.
The sleeve 16 further facilitates insulation and provides a
portable containing means for transporting food products. The
configuration of the sleeve 16 is durable and easy to assemble.
[0043] In non-limiting examples, the container assembly 10 can
militate against a temperature drop of more than 5-10 degrees
Fahrenheit per hour. In certain embodiments, a kit can be provided,
manufactured, or sold that includes at least one blank 50 for
forming the shell 16, at least one insulation layer 14, and at
least one receptacle 12. The kit can include the blank 50
unassembled, fully assembled or partially assembled as the shell
16. The kit can also include the utensil 15, the handle 36, and
other component desired for transporting the food product.
[0044] It is understood that the container assembly 10 can be
assembled either prior to filling the receptacle 12 with the liquid
or semi-liquid food product or after filling the receptacle 12 with
the liquid or semi-liquid food product. In certain embodiments, the
container assembly 10 can be pre-assembled and packaged in bulk
shippers and delivered in units of six or twelve, for example, to
the food retailers, restaurants, caterers, etc.
[0045] According to this embodiment, the retail food providers only
are required to remove the lid 19, fill the receptacle 12 with the
food product, replace the lid 19, and provide the take-out,
delivery, or catered service.
[0046] FIG. 6 illustrates a blank 50 according to another
embodiment of the invention. The same reference numerals are used
in FIG. 6 to describe those components that are similar to the
components of FIG. 1 without further description with a leading
numeral "1". The blank 50 illustrated in FIG. 6 is substantially
similar to and assembled in substantially the same manner as
indicated hereinabove with reference to the blank 50 of FIG. 5,
except the position of the retaining tab 48 on the first sidewall
26a, the configuration of the third section 76 and fourth section
78 of the top panel 70 forming the cover 20, and the shape of the
edge 42 of the first flap 40a are different from the blank 50 of
FIG. 5.
[0047] As illustrated in FIG. 6, a first portion of the retaining
tab 48 is formed in the first panel 52 and a second portion of the
retaining tab 48 is formed in the first flap 40a. The retaining tab
48 is defined by a fold line 98 and the perforated line 41a. The
fold line 98 is formed in the first panel 52 at a distance from the
fold line 41. It is understood, the retaining tab 48 can be formed
entirely on the first panel 52, if desired. The position of the
retaining tab 48 on the blank 50 depends on the width of the first
sub-section 84 and the third sub-section 88 forming the first
partition 30a of the sleeve 16. The larger the width of the first
sub-section 84 and the third sub-section 88, the further the fold
line 98 can be positioned on the first panel 52 from the fold line
41.
[0048] In the embodiment illustrated, a second end of each of the
third section 76 and the fourth section 78 opposing the first end
adjacent the panels 52, 54, 56, 58 is also tapered, wherein the
width increases at a constant rate away from the panels 52, 54, 56,
58 towards the fold line 91. The tapered second end of each of the
third section 76 and the fourth section 78 accommodates an increase
in the width of the first sub-section 84 and the third sub-section
88. It is understood the width of third section 76 and the fourth
section 78 can be constant or varying at any portion thereof. For
example, the width of the third section 76 and the fourth section
78 can decrease at a constant rate from the fold line 91 to the
fold line 71.
[0049] The edge 42 of the first flap 40a is substantially arcuate
as described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 5 and includes a
linear portion 102. The linear portion 102 is configured to engage
with a portion of the receptacle 12 to maintain the inwardly
converging position of the first flap 40a with respect to the
sleeve 16. In the embodiment shown, the first flap 40a includes the
linear portion 102. However, it is understood the second flap 40b
and the third flap 40c can also include a linear portion to
maintain the inwardly converging positions thereof.
[0050] From the foregoing description, one ordinarily skilled in
the art can easily ascertain the essential characteristics of this
invention and, without departing from the spirit and scope thereof,
can make various changes and modifications to the invention to
adapt it to various usages and conditions.
* * * * *