U.S. patent application number 16/048527 was filed with the patent office on 2018-11-22 for packaging system, sleeve and slide card.
The applicant listed for this patent is WestRock MWV, LLC. Invention is credited to Richard Alan Collins, Marty Jones, Tsugihiko Suzuki.
Application Number | 20180334300 16/048527 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51391978 |
Filed Date | 2018-11-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180334300 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Collins; Richard Alan ; et
al. |
November 22, 2018 |
PACKAGING SYSTEM, SLEEVE AND SLIDE CARD
Abstract
A primary package (10; 110; 210; 310; 510; 610; 810) for being
lockably received in an outer sleeve (700), the primary package
comprising a main body panel (12; 112; 212; 312; 512; 612; 812) and
a retention tab (14; 114; 214; 314; 512; 612; 812) hingedly
connected together along a fold line (17; 117; 217; 317; 517; 617;
817), the retention tab having at least one embossment (18; 118;
218; 318; 518; 618; 818), the fold line having been integrally
formed in the primary package.
Inventors: |
Collins; Richard Alan;
(Midlothian, VA) ; Suzuki; Tsugihiko; (Henrico,
VA) ; Jones; Marty; (Glen Allen, VA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
WestRock MWV, LLC |
Atlanta |
GA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51391978 |
Appl. No.: |
16/048527 |
Filed: |
July 30, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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14768255 |
Aug 17, 2015 |
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|
|
PCT/US14/18008 |
Feb 24, 2014 |
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16048527 |
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61768224 |
Feb 22, 2013 |
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61768273 |
Feb 22, 2013 |
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61768318 |
Feb 22, 2013 |
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61869597 |
Aug 23, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 2215/02 20130101;
B65D 5/38 20130101; B65D 75/327 20130101; B65D 5/0227 20130101;
B65D 2583/0454 20130101; B65D 75/36 20130101; B65D 73/0078
20130101; B65D 83/0463 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 73/00 20060101
B65D073/00; B65D 75/36 20060101 B65D075/36; B65D 5/38 20060101
B65D005/38; B65D 83/04 20060101 B65D083/04; B65D 5/02 20060101
B65D005/02; B65D 75/32 20060101 B65D075/32 |
Claims
1. A method of manufacturing a primary package for being lockably
received in an outer sleeve, the method comprising: thermally
forming at least one first embossment in a sheet of material; and
simultaneously thermally forming a fold line in the sheet of
material; wherein the primary package comprises a main body panel
and a retention tab, the retention tab being hingedly connected to
the main body panel along the fold line, wherein the at least one
first embossment is formed in one of the main body panel and the
retention tab wherein the at least one first embossment terminates
at a point at a first distance from the fold line, the first
distance being no greater than 2.5 mm.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the fold line is an
embossment or debossment within the sheet of material.
3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the fold line defines
an interface or demarcation between the retention tab and the main
body panel.
4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the primary package
comprises a first side and a second side and wherein a cover sheet
is mounted upon the first side and the at least one first
embossment projects from the second side, the primary package being
folded such that the first side of the retention tab is folded
towards the first side of the main body panel.
5. The method according to claim 4 wherein the fold line is shaped
and arranged to encourage folding of the first side of the
retention tab towards the first side of the main body panel.
6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first
embossment extends substantially from the fold line.
7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising thermally
forming at least one second embossment on the opposite side of the
fold line from the at least one first embossment.
8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the at least one second
embossment extends substantially from the fold line.
9. The method according to claim 7, wherein the at least one second
embossment terminates at a point at a second distance from the fold
line, the second distance being no greater than 2.5 mm.
10. The method according to claim 7, wherein the at least one
second embossment is co-formed simultaneously with the formation of
the fold line and the at least one first embossment.
11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the primary package
has first and second opposed sides, and wherein the fold line
comprises a ridge projecting from the first side.
12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the main body panel
comprises an article receiving area, wherein the article receiving
area comprises one or more cavities for receiving an item, and
wherein the primary package comprises a cover sheet enclosing an
article within said one or more cavities.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Divisional of U.S. application Ser.
No. 14/768,255 filed on Aug. 17, 2015, which is the National Phase
entry into the United States of International Application
PCT/US14/018008, filed Aug. Feb. 24, 2014, which claims the benefit
of priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119(e) of U.S. provisional
application Ser. No. 61/768,224 filed Feb. 22, 2013; 61/768,273
filed Feb. 22, 2013; 61/768,318 filed Feb. 22, 2013; and 61/869,597
filed Aug. 23, 2013. All of the above applications are herein
incorporated by reference in their entireties.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to lockable
packaging such as child-resistant, senior-friendly packages for
healthcare type applications, sleeve-and-drawer style packages for
consumer goods such as food, recreational drugs (for example,
tobacco, cigars, cigarettes, etc.), toys, hardware and electrical
items or the like and, more specifically but not exclusively, to a
lockable slide receptacle (for example, a blister card, a tray, a
box, etc.), an outer shell (or sleeve) and to a sleeve-and-drawer
style package having an internal slide receptacle, releasably
lockable within an outer shell. Typical examples of
sleeve-and-drawer packages where the present invention may be
employed include, but are not limited to, unit dose packages for
pharmaceutical tablets, capsules or lozenges, and security packages
to deter package pilferage for small high-value items, such as
consumer electronics.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In the field of packaging, particularly in the field of
healthcare and medication packaging, it is often required to
provide consumers or patients with secure packaging that has
child-resistant features to restrict or prevent access to the
package contents by a child. At the same time, it is useful for the
patient to be able to access their own medication with some degree
of ease; as such, it is beneficial if the packaging is also
"senior-friendly". Many packages are available that comprise an
inner slide card that holds articles such as medicaments, tablets
or vitamins in blisters. The blisters are sealed (often by a foil
layer or a polymeric film) to retain product freshness, and are
arranged in rows to encourage patients to take the appropriate dose
(it being readily visible how many items have been consumed, and
how many items are to be consumed). The blisters may be formed
directly within the slide card, or a separate blister strip may be
attached to a sheet of material to form an inner slide card. The
inner slide card, with the blisters of articles, is then slidable
inside an outer sleeve. The inner slide card is usually retained
and locked inside, the inner slide card providing a locking tail
flap that engages the outer sleeve. An unlocking mechanism is
usually provided on the outer sleeve to permit the release of the
inner slide card. Such unlocking mechanisms often require some
dexterity to operate, or require user realisation that co-ordinated
operation of more than one feature is required; this may make the
package child-resistant.
[0004] Further considerations in this technical field are the need
for such packages to be re-opened and re-locked many times without
failure. A course of medication may, for example, require
twenty-one or more doses to be taken over a period of time, and the
package must be useable to re-lock and release the blister
containing slide card repeatedly without failure. Equally, the cost
of providing healthcare products and medication must, as far as
possible, be minimised and as such it is desirable to keep the cost
of the packaging as low as possible whilst maintaining its
durability. Whilst it is also advantageous to provide clearly
printed information (such as pill calendars and/or other
patient-directed information) on the package, the size of the
package is preferably minimised, not only to reduce its production
costs by using less material, but also to reduce shipping costs. A
lightweight and compact package, with a locking feature that can
withstand repeated use, is therefore advantageous.
[0005] The present invention seeks to provide an improvement in the
field of packaging more specifically but not exclusively, in the
field of packaging comprising inner slide cards and outer
shells.
[0006] A package, or components of a package, of the invention may
include means for containing, displaying, locking, unlocking and
retaining an internally positioned blister slide card. A package
according to the invention may include an opening that allows the
insertion and partial extraction of an inner card, and may provide
means for positioning the card within the structure such that
elements of the inner slide card engage the outer structure to
mechanically lock the slide card in place, thereby preventing the
slide card (or blister strip) from being pulled or withdrawn from
the outer structure. Preferably, a package of the invention
provides means in the outer structure for disengaging the
mechanical locking features of the outer shell and inner slide card
such that the inner slide card can be pulled and/or at least
partially extracted from the outer structure. The outer shell may
be produced from clear, translucent and/or opaque materials.
SUMMARY
[0007] The present inventions seeks to overcome or at least
mitigate the problems of the prior art.
[0008] According to a first aspect of the first invention, there is
provided a primary package for being lockably received in an outer
sleeve, the primary package comprising a main body panel and a
retention tab, the retention tab being hingedly connected to the
main body panel along a fold line, the retention tab having at
least one first embossment, the fold line being an integral
formation of the primary package.
[0009] Optionally, the fold line is an embossment or debossment
within the material forming the primary package.
[0010] In some embodiments, the fold line may be co-formed
simultaneously with the formation of the at least one first
embossment.
[0011] In some embodiments, the fold line may define an interface
or demarcation between the retention tab and the main body
panel.
[0012] In some embodiments, the primary package may have first and
second opposed sides, the at least one first embossment comprises
at least one dummy blister projecting from the first side, and the
fold line comprises a channel formed in the second side.
[0013] In some embodiments, the primary package may comprise a
first side and a second side and wherein a cover sheet is mounted
upon the first side and the at least one first embossment projects
from the second side, the primary package being folded such that
the first side of the retention tab is folded towards the first
side of the main body panel.
[0014] Optionally, the fold line is shaped and arranged to
encourage folding of the first side of the retention tab which is
folded towards the first side of the main body panel.
[0015] In some embodiments, the at least one first embossment may
extend substantially from the fold line.
[0016] In some embodiments, the at least one first embossment may
terminate at a point at a first distance from the fold line, the
first distance being no greater than 2.5 mm. In other embodiments,
the first distance is equal to or less than 1 mm.
[0017] In some embodiments, the main body may comprise at least one
second embossment.
[0018] In some embodiments, the primary package may comprise a
first side and a second side, and the at least one second
embossment comprises at least one dummy blister projecting from the
first side of the primary package.
[0019] In some embodiments, the at least one second embossment may
extend substantially from the fold line.
[0020] Optionally, the at least one second embossment terminates at
a point at a second distance from the fold line, the second
distance being no greater than 2.5 mm.
[0021] In other embodiments, the second distance may be equal to or
less than 1 mm.
[0022] Optionally, the at least one second embossment is co-formed
simultaneously with the formation of the fold line and the at least
one first embossment.
[0023] The primary package may comprise a first side and a second
side, and the fold line may comprise a ridge projecting from the
first side.
[0024] Optionally, the main body comprises an article receiving
area.
[0025] In some embodiments the article receiving area may comprise
one or more cavities for receiving an item.
[0026] Optionally, the primary package comprises a cover sheet
enclosing an article within said one or more cavities.
[0027] According to a second aspect of the first invention, there
is provided a packaging system comprising a primary package
lockably received in an outer sleeve, the primary package
comprising a main body panel and a retention tab, the retention tab
being hingedly connected to the main body panel along a fold line,
the retention tab having at least one first embossment, the fold
line being an integral formation of the primary package, the outer
sleeve comprising a tubular structure having a recess defined in
one wall, the retention tab forming a latch and the recess forming
a keeper.
[0028] In some embodiments, the outer sleeve may comprise a release
mechanism for releasing the retention tab from the recess.
[0029] In some embodiments, the release mechanism may comprise a
release button formed in said one wall of the outer sleeve.
[0030] According to a third aspect of the first invention, there is
provided a method of manufacturing a primary package, as described
in the foregoing paragraphs, comprising: moulding at least one
embossment in a sheet of material; and simultaneously moulding a
fold line in the sheet of material.
[0031] According to a fourth aspect of the first invention, there
is provided a lockable slide card for being lockably received in an
outer sleeve, the lockable slide card comprising a main body panel
having an article receiving area and a retention tab connected
together along a notional line, the retention tab having at least
one first embossment terminating substantially on the notional line
and the main body panel having at least one second embossment
terminating substantially on the notional line such that a
continuous valley is defined between the at least one first
embossment and the at least one second embossment to serve as a
functional fold line.
[0032] According to a fifth aspect of the first invention, there is
provided a primary package for being lockably received in an outer
sleeve, the primary package comprising a main body panel and a
retention tab, the retention tab being hingedly connected to the
main body panel along a fold line, the retention tab having at
least one first embossment, wherein the fold line is interrupted by
one or more gaps to form a plurality of collinear fold lines, the
fold lines being an integral formation of the primary package.
[0033] In some embodiments, the fold lines may be an embossment or
debossment within the material forming the primary package.
[0034] In some embodiments, the fold lines may be co-formed
simultaneously with the formation of the at least one first
embossment.
[0035] In some embodiments, the fold lines may define an interface
or demarcation between the retention tab and the main body
panel.
[0036] According to a sixth aspect of the first invention, there is
provided a lockable slide card for being lockably received in an
outer sleeve, the lockable slide card comprising a main body panel
having an article receiving area and a retention tab connected
together along a notional line, the retention tab having at least
one first embossment terminating substantially on the notional line
and the main body panel having at least one second embossment
terminating substantially on the notional line such that a
continuous valley is defined between the at least one first
embossment and the at least one second embossment to serve as a
functional fold line.
[0037] According to a seventh aspect of the first invention, there
is provided a packaging system comprising a lockable slide card
lockably received in an outer sleeve, the primary package
comprising a main body panel and a retention tab, the retention tab
being hingedly connected to the main body panel along a hinge line,
the retention tab having at least one first embossment, wherein the
hinge line is interrupted by one or more gaps to form a plurality
of collinear fold lines, each of the plurality of collinear fold
lines being an integral formation of the primary package.
[0038] According to an eighth aspect of the first invention, there
is provided a primary package for being lockably received in an
outer sleeve, the primary package comprising a main body panel
having an article receiving area including a plurality of product
carrying embossments and a retention tab connected together, the
retention tab having a plurality of first embossments and the main
body panel having a plurality of second embossments, wherein the
plurality of product carrying embossments, the plurality of first
embossments and the plurality of second embossments are each
arranged in rows, the rows of the plurality of product carrying
embossments, the plurality of first embossments and the plurality
of second embossments being aligned with one another such that the
primary package comprises a plurality of embossment-free regions
extending across the main body panel and the retention tab.
[0039] In some embodiments, the primary package comprises a hinge
line hingedly connecting the retention tab to the main body panel,
wherein the fold line is interrupted by one or more gaps to form a
plurality of collinear fold lines, the fold lines being an integral
formation of the primary package, and wherein each gap in the hinge
line is aligned with a respective one of the plurality of
embossment free regions.
[0040] According to a ninth aspect of the first invention there is
provided a packaging system comprising a lockable slide card
lockably received in an outer sleeve, the lockable slide card
comprising a main body panel having an article receiving area
including a plurality of product carrying embossments and a
retention tab connected together, the retention tab having a
plurality of first embossments and the main body panel having a
plurality of second embossments, wherein the plurality of product
carrying embossments, the plurality of first embossments and the
plurality of second embossments are each arranged in rows, the rows
of the plurality of product carrying embossments, the plurality of
first embossments and the plurality of second embossments being
aligned with one another such that the lockable slide card
comprises a plurality of embossment free regions extending across
the main body panel and the retention tab.
[0041] According to an aspect of the second invention for which
protection is sought, there is provided a lockable receptacle for
use in a package comprising an outer shell. The lockable receptacle
has a first surface and a second surface. The lockable receptacle
comprises a main portion having at least one receiving cavity for
holding an article, the at least one receiving cavity being formed
as a protrusion of the first surface and as an indentation of the
second surface. A locking tail flap is hinged to the main portion
by a hinge connection; the locking tail flap has an engaging
portion shaped and formed such that a maximum width of the locking
tail flap proximate to the engaging portion is equal to or greater
than the maximum width of the main portion of the lockable
receptacle.
[0042] According to another aspect of the second invention for
which protection is sought, there is provided a lockable receptacle
for use in a package comprising an outer shell. The lockable
receptacle has a first surface and a second surface. The lockable
receptacle comprises a main portion having at least one receiving
cavity for holding an article; the at least one receiving cavity is
formed as a protrusion of the first surface, and as an indentation
of the second surface. A locking tail flap is hinged to the main
portion by a hinge connection; the locking tail flap has an edge, a
medial portion of which is shaped and arranged for engagement with
a locking feature of an outer shell, and has wing portions that are
disposed either side of the medial engaging portion.
[0043] Optionally, the wing portions are structured and arranged to
provide a brace between the side walls of an outer shell to
prevent, or at least mitigate against, unfolding of the locking
tail flap.
[0044] Optionally, a recess is provided between the wing portion
and the medial engaging portion of the locking tail flap.
Optionally, said recess is trapezoidal in shape.
[0045] Additionally, the locking flap comprises a series of
formations for adding rigidity to the locking tail flap. Each
formation of the series of formations is formed as a protrusion of
the first surface, and as an indentation of the second surface, and
one or more of the formations is disposed at an oblique angle
relative to the hinge connection, and extends from a location
proximate the hinge connection generally towards a corner portion
of the free edge of the locking tail flap.
[0046] Optionally, one or more of the formations each has a
non-uniform height. A first portion of each formation comprises a
maximum height, and a second portion of each formation comprises a
minimum height. The first portion, comprising the maximum height,
is disposed further from said engaging portion than the second
portion, comprising the minimum height, is disposed from said
engaging portion.
[0047] Optionally, two or more integral formations are provided and
are arranged substantially in parallel alignment with one another.
One or more of said one or more integral formations may have a
generally wedge-shaped structure, tapered from the first portion,
comprising the maximum height, towards the second portion,
comprising the minimum height. Optionally, there may comprise a
series of five substantially parallel integral formations. Each of
the five integral formations has the same length, the same maximum
height and the same angle of taper.
[0048] Optionally, there may further comprise two obliquely angled
integral formations, one disposed on either side of the series of
five substantially parallel integral formations. The two obliquely
angled integral formations have a greater length than the length of
the integral formations in said series.
[0049] According to another aspect of the second invention for
which protection is sought, there is provided a package comprising
an outer shell and a lockable receptacle. The outer shell has a
tubular structure for housing the lockable receptacle defined by
four walls and has an open end and a closed end. A composite front
wall of the tubular structure has a recess formed internally
therein. The lockable receptacle has a first surface and a second
surface; the lockable receptacle comprises a main portion having at
least one receiving cavity for holding an article. The at least one
receiving cavity is formed as a protrusion of the first surface and
as an indentation of said second surface. The lockable receptacle
comprises a locking tail flap hinged to the main portion by a hinge
connection, and is folded with respect to the main portion such
that the second surface of the locking tail flap is moved towards
the second surface of said main portion. An engaging portion of the
locking tail flap is locatable within the recess of the outer shell
for locking the lockable receptacle within the outer shell, and the
maximum width of the locking tail flap proximate the engaging
portion is dimensioned such that it is substantially equal to or
slightly less than the internal width of the outer shell and wise.
When less than the internal width of the outer shell, it is no more
than 2 mm, and preferably no more than 1 mm, smaller than the
internal width of the outer shell.
[0050] Optionally, the maximum width of the locking tail flap
proximate the engaging portion is dimensioned such that it is no
more than 5 mm smaller than the internal width of the outer
shell.
[0051] According to an aspect of the third invention, for which
protection is sought, there is provided a lockable receptacle for
use in a package comprising an outer shell, the lockable receptacle
having a first surface and a second surface and comprises a main
portion having at least one receiving cavity for holding an
article, the at least one receiving cavity being formed as a
protrusion of the first surface and as an indentation of the second
surface and a locking tail flap hinged to the main portion by a
hinge connection, the locking tail flap comprising: an engaging
portion that is engagable with an internal locking mechanism of an
outer shell, for locking the lockable receptacle within the outer
shell; and comprising one or more formations each formed as a
protrusion of the first surface and as an indentation of the second
surface and each have a non-uniform height, a first portion of each
formation comprises a maximum height, and a second portion of each
formation comprises a minimum height, wherein the first portion of
maximum height is disposed further from said engaging portion of
the locking tail flap than the second portion of minimum height, is
disposed from said engaging portion. In other words, the first
portion comprising the maximum height is disposed closer to the
hinge connection than the second portion comprising the minimum
height is disposed to the hinge connection.
[0052] Optionally, the one or more formations are integrally
formed, optionally by moulding, pressing or thermoforming.
[0053] Optionally, two or more integral formations are provided and
are arranged substantially in parallel alignment with one
another.
[0054] Optionally, two or more integral formations are provided and
are arranged at about 90.degree. relative to the hinge connection
between the locking tail flap and the main portion of the lockable
receptacle.
[0055] Optionally, one or more integral formations are provided and
are arranged at an oblique angle relative to the hinge connection
between the locking tail flap and the main portion of the lockable
receptacle.
[0056] Optionally, one or more of said one or more integral
formations has a generally wedge-shaped structure, and is being
tapered from the first portion, comprising the maximum height,
toward the second portion, comprising the minimum height.
[0057] Optionally, the upper surface of the one or more of said one
or more integral formations is flat. By flat, it is meant planar or
smooth and not stepped.
[0058] Optionally, one or more of the one or more integral
formations has a triangular cross-sectional shape.
[0059] Optionally, one or more of said one or more integral
formations has a stepped-shaped structure being tapered from the
first portion to the second portion and wherein the upper surface
of the one or more of said one or more integral formations
comprises two or more upper surface sections. Each of the two or
more upper surface sections may be flat, i.e., smooth or
planar.
[0060] Optionally, a length `L`, defined as the distance along the
base of an integral formation between an end of the first section
and an end of the second section, is between about 0.5 cm and about
2 cm.
[0061] Optionally, an angle between an upper surface and a base of
an integral formation is between about 5.degree. and about
20.degree..
[0062] Optionally, said one or more integral formations on the
locking tail flap all have substantially the same maximum
height.
[0063] Optionally, the lockable receptacle comprises two or more
integral formations and one or more of the two or more integral
formations on the locking tail flap has a maximum height that is
greater or lower than the maximum height of one or more of the
other two or more integral formations.
[0064] Optionally, a series of five, substantially parallel,
integral formations are provided, each of said five integral
formations having the same length, the same maximum height and the
same angle of taper.
[0065] Additionally, the lockable receptacle comprises two
obliquely angled integral formations, one disposed on either side
of the series of five substantially parallel integral formations
and wherein said two obliquely angled integral formations have a
greater length than the length of the integral formations in said
series. Optionally, the two obliquely angled integral formations
may have a length of about 1.5 cm, whereas the integral formations
of the series of five may have a length of about 1.1 cm.
[0066] Alternatively, the lockable receptacle comprises two shorter
integral formations, one disposed on either side of the series of
five substantially parallel integral formations and in parallel
alignment therewith, wherein said two shorter integral formations
have a lower length than the length of the integral formations in
said series. The shorter integral formations may have a length of
about 0.5 cm.
[0067] According to another aspect of the third invention for which
protection is sought, there is provided a package comprising an
outer shell and lockable receptacle, the outer shell having a
tubular structure defined by four walls, an open end and a closed
end for housing the lockable receptacle, a composite front wall of
the tubular structure having a recess formed internally therein,
the lockable receptacle having a first surface and a second
surface, the lockable receptacle comprising a main portion having
at least one receiving cavity for holding an article, said at least
one receiving cavity being formed as a protrusion of the first
surface and as an indentation of the second surface, and the
lockable receptacle comprising a locking tail flap hinged to the
main portion by a hinge connection, and being folded with respect
to the main portion such that the second surface of the locking
tail flap is moved towards the second surface of the main portion,
an engaging portion of the locking tail flap being locatable within
said recess of the outer shell for locking the lockable receptacle
within the outer shell, the locking tail flap comprising one or
more integral formations, each formed as a protrusion of the first
surface and as an indentation of said second surface of the
lockable receptacle, said one or more integral formations each
having a non-uniform height, a first portion of each integral
formation comprising a maximum height and a second portion of each
integral formation comprising a minimum height, wherein the first
portion is disposed further from said engaging portion of the
locking tail flap that is locatable within the recess of the outer
shell than the second portion of each formation is disposed from
said engaging portion of the locking tail flap.
[0068] Within the scope of this application it is envisaged and
intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features
and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims
and/or in the following description and drawings may be taken
independently or in any combination thereof. For example, features
described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all
embodiments unless there is incompatibility of features.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0069] Exemplary embodiments of the first through third inventions
will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings,
in which:
[0070] FIG. 1-1 is a plan view from above of a bumpy side of a
primary package according to a first embodiment of the first
invention;
[0071] FIG. 1-2 is a cross section, taken along line A-A in FIG.
1-1, of the rear end portion of the primary package of FIG.
1-1;
[0072] FIG. 1-3 is a plan view of a blank for making a sleeve;
[0073] FIG. 1-4 is a plan view of the sleeve made from the blank of
FIG. 1-4 during a stage of its assembly;
[0074] FIGS. 1-5 and 1-6 are perspective views of the sleeve during
additional stages of its assembly;
[0075] FIG. 1-7 is a perspective view of the assembled sleeve;
[0076] FIG. 1-8 is a cross section, taken along line B-B in FIG.
1-7, of a rear end portion of the assembled sleeve, showing the
sleeve includes the primary package of FIG. 1-1;
[0077] FIG. 1-9 is a cross section, taken along line B-B in FIG.
1-7, of the rear end portion of the assembled sleeve, showing the
sleeve including the primary package of FIG. 1-1 to which a pulling
force is applied;
[0078] FIG. 1-10 is a perspective view from above of the sleeve of
FIG. 1-8 and the primary package of FIG. 1-1 in which the primary
package has been extracted to a dispensing position;
[0079] FIG. 1-11 is a plan view from above of a primary package
according to a second embodiment of the first invention;
[0080] FIG. 1-12 a plan view from above of a bumpy side of a
primary package according to a third embodiment of the first
invention;
[0081] FIG. 1-13 is a cross section, taken along line C-C in FIG.
1-12, of the rear end portion of the primary package of FIG.
1-12;
[0082] FIG. 1-14 is a plan view from above of a bumpy side of a
primary package according to a fourth embodiment of the first
invention;
[0083] FIG. 1-15 is a cross section, taken along line D-D in FIG.
1-14, of the rear end portion of the primary package of FIG.
1-14;
[0084] FIG. 1-16 a plan view from above of a primary package
according to a further exemplary embodiment of the first
invention;
[0085] FIG. 1-17 is a cross section of the rear end portion of the
sleeve of FIG. 1-7 in which the primary package of FIG. 1-16 is
installed;
[0086] FIG. 1-18 is a plan view from above of a primary package
according to a fifth embodiment of the first invention;
[0087] FIG. 1-18A is an enlarged view of the portion within the
circle in FIG. 1-18;
[0088] FIG. 1-19 is a plan view from above of a primary package
according to a fifth embodiment of the first invention illustrating
a notional line along which the primary package folds;
[0089] FIG. 1-20A is a view taken along the line M-M of the primary
package shown in FIG. 1-18;
[0090] FIG. 1-20B is a view taken along the line A-A of the primary
package shown in FIG. 1-18;
[0091] FIG. 1-21 is a side view of the primary package of FIG. 1-12
taken along line CC;
[0092] FIG. 1-22 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the
primary package of FIG. 1-22 indicated by notional line F;
[0093] FIG. 1-23 is a plan view from above of a primary package
according to a sixth embodiment of the first invention;
[0094] FIG. 1-24 is a plan view from above of a primary package
according to a seventh embodiment of the first invention;
[0095] FIG. 1-25 is a plan view from above of a sheet of material
in which a plurality of primary packages of FIG. 1-23 is
formed;
[0096] FIG. 1-26A is a schematic plan view from above of the sheet
of material of FIG. 1-25 on a processing machine;
[0097] FIG. 1-26B is a schematic side view of the sheet of material
of FIG. 1-25 on a processing machine;
[0098] FIG. 2-1 is a perspective view from above of an open package
comprising an outer sleeve and a blister strip according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0099] FIG. 2-2 is a plan view from above of a blister strip
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0100] FIG. 2-3 is a perspective view from above of the blister
strip of FIGS. 2-1 and 2-2 in a flat, open condition;
[0101] FIG. 2-4 is a further perspective view from above of the
blister strip of FIGS. 2-1 to 2-3 wherein a locking tail flap of
the blister strip is folded relative to a main portion of the
blister strip;
[0102] FIG. 2-5 is yet another perspective view from above of the
blister strip of FIGS. 2-1 to 2-4 wherein a locking tail flap of
the blister strip is folded relative to a main portion of the
blister strip;
[0103] FIG. 2-6 is a plan view of the blank for forming the outer
shell of FIG. 2-1, which may be used in conjunction with the
blister strips of the present disclosure;
[0104] FIG. 2-7 is a further perspective view of the outer shell
shown in FIG. 2-1, which is formed from the blank of FIG. 2-6;
[0105] FIG. 2-8 is a perspective view of a package comprising the
outer shell of FIG. 2-7 containing the blister strip of FIGS. 2-1
to 2-4 wherein cross-sectional lines A-A and B-B have been marked
thereon;
[0106] FIG. 2-9 is a cross-sectional view, taken along the line A-A
shown in FIG. 2-8, of a rear end portion of the package of FIG.
2-8;
[0107] FIG. 2-10 is a cross-sectional view, taken along the line
B-B shown in FIG. 2-8, of a rear end portion of the package of FIG.
2-8;
[0108] FIG. 2-11 is a plan view from above of a blister strip
according to another embodiment of the disclosure;
[0109] FIG. 2-12A is a cut-away view of the outer shell of FIGS.
2-1, 2-6 and 2-7, showing a cross section of the outer shell,
slightly in front of the recess;
[0110] FIG. 2-12B is a cut-away view of the outer shell of FIG.
2-12A, showing the blister strip of FIG. 2-11 locked in the outer
shell;
[0111] FIG. 2-13 is a plan view from above of a blister strip
according to yet another embodiment of the disclosure;
[0112] FIG. 3-1 is a perspective view from above of an open package
comprising an outer sleeve and a blister strip (shown with the
bumpy side up) according to an embodiment of the third
invention;
[0113] FIG. 3-2 is a plan view from above of the bumpy side of a
blister strip according to an embodiment of the third
invention;
[0114] FIG. 3-3 is a perspective view from above of the blister
strip of FIGS. 3-1 and 3-2 in a flat, open condition;
[0115] FIG. 3-4 is a further perspective view from above of the
blister strip of FIGS. 3-1 to 3-3 wherein a locking tail flap of
the blister strip is folded relative to a main portion of the
blister strip;
[0116] FIG. 3-5 is yet another perspective view from above of the
blister strip of FIGS. 3-1 to 3-4 wherein a locking tail flap of
the blister strip is folded relative to a main portion of the
blister strip;
[0117] FIG. 3-6 is a plan view of blank for forming the outer shell
of FIG. 3-1, which may optionally be used in conjunction with the
blister strips of the third invention;
[0118] FIG. 3-7 is a further perspective view of the outer shell
shown in FIG. 3-1, which is formed from the blank of FIG. 3-6;
[0119] FIG. 3-8A is a view of the side of the blister strip of
FIGS. 3-1 to 3-5 illustrating how the locking tail flap is folded
relative to the main part of the blister strip;
[0120] FIG. 3-8B is an enlarged perspective view from above of a
generally wedge-shaped false blister (also referred to as integral
formation);
[0121] FIG. 3-9 is a view taken along the line IX-IX of FIG. 3-2,
showing a cross section of the rear end portion of the blister
strip and particularly showing the generally wedge-shaped false
blister formed on the locking tail flap and a false blister on the
main portion of the blister strip;
[0122] FIG. 3-10 shows a cross section of the rear end portion of
the package of FIG. 3-1, wherein the blister strip is disposed in a
locked position within the outer shell;
[0123] FIG. 3-11A shows a top view of part of a blister strip
according to another exemplary embodiment of the third invention;
and
[0124] FIG. 3-11B shows a perspective view of a false blister
according to yet another embodiment of the third invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0125] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the primary
package, packaging system, sleeves and method are disclosed herein.
It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely
examples of the way in which certain aspects of the inventions can
be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of
the ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word
"exemplary" is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve
as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will
be understood that the primary package, packaging system, sleeves
and method described herein may be embodied in various and
alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and
some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of
particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods
are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid
obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and
functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as
limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a
representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to
variously employ the invention.
[0126] Referring now to FIGS. 1-1 through 1-26B, the first
invention is described referring to several embodiments illustrated
in those figures.
[0127] Referring to FIGS. 1-1 and 1-2, there is shown a primary
package 10 in the form of a blister card for being received in a
sleeve 700 as shown in FIG. 1-7. The primary package 10 is formed
from a sheet of material which is moulded or pressed by, for
example but not limited to, blow moulding, compression moulding,
injection moulding, thermoforming or vacuum forming. The primary
package 10 may be formed from a polymer or plastics material or
paperboard material. The primary package 10 may comprise one or
more coating materials; such coating materials may be employed, for
example, for forming a hermetic seal or for adhesion of a cover
sheet.
[0128] The primary package 10 in the form of an inner slide card or
lockable slide card comprises a main body 12 having a plurality of
cavities or blisters 11 for receiving an article such as, but not
limited to, a medicament. FIG. 1-1 shows the bumpy side of the
primary package from which the blisters 11 protrude toward the
viewer of that figure. In the illustrated embodiment the primary
package 10 is a thermoformed plastic sheet (for example PVC) having
nine rows of eight cavities 11, each for receiving an article (not
shown). The main body 12 also comprises a first series of empty
cavities or false blisters 16 disposed at a first end thereof. The
empty cavities 16 may also be referred to as second embossments or
dummy blisters.
[0129] A retention tab 14, also known as a tail locking flap, is
hinged to the first end of the main body 12. The retention tab 14
is employed to lock the primary package 10 within the sleeve 700 in
a first position in which it is fully inserted into the sleeve 700,
as described in detail below. The retention tab 14 may also be
employed to restrict withdrawal of the primary package 10 from the
sleeve 700; the retention tab 14 is configured so as to engage with
a retention feature provided upon the sleeve 700.
[0130] The retention tab 14 comprises a second series of empty
cavities or false blisters 18. Optionally, a backing sheet or cover
sheet S is applied to an upper surface of the primary package 10 to
enclose the blisters 11, 16, 18 such that they are be lidded or
sealed. The cover sheet S may be formed from a material such as,
but not limited to, aluminium foil sheet, paperboard layer or other
perforable or peelable film. Whereas perforable films are often
used in pharmaceutical push-through packages where a tablet is
pushed out of the blister and this action breaks the backing film
to allow that tablet to exit the blister, in other embodiments the
backing film may, for example, be peelable and therefore not
necessarily of the push-through type. The embodiments described
having punch-through backing sheets are for illustrative purposes
only and are not limiting.
[0131] In other envisaged embodiments, the primary package 10 may
be formed of other sheet material, for example other plastics or
paperboard. In other arrangements, the primary package 10 may have
one or more blisters 11 integrally formed therein, and may only
optionally be formed by thermoforming. Alternatively or
additionally, the primary package 10 may comprise two parts, a
card-type element (not shown) and a blister strip, the blister
strip being attached to the card-type element such that the two
parts together form a unitary element that is capable of
accommodating one or more articles in individual cavities or
blisters 11, and that is capable of being withdrawn out of, and
pushed by relative sliding movement into, the sleeve 700. The
articles to be accommodated by the blisters 11 of the primary
package 10 may, for example, be tablets, pills, capsules or for
example any other form of medicament, healthcare item, personal
item, drug, vitamin, electrical component or other article. The
primary package 10 may be capable of holding one or more items or
articles. The terms "primary package", "inner slide card",
"lockable slide card" and "blister strip" are used to refer to
components that are placed inside the sleeve 700 and to which the
blisters or cavities 11 are attached, or within which the blisters
or cavities 11 are integrally formed. The terms "primary package",
"inner slide card" and "blister strip" may be used to refer to
components formed of paperboard, plastics material, or combinations
of material and such components may be formed from a single piece
of material or a composition of different materials.
[0132] The retention tab 14 is hinged to the main body 12 by a
hinged connection 17 that extends all the way across the width of
the retention tab 14 (or that of the main body 12). The hinged
connection 17 is integrally formed within the sheet of material
forming the main body 12 and retention tab 14, as best illustrated
in FIG. 1-2. The hinged connection 17 is a formed score line and is
an integral formation within the primary package 10. The sheet of
material, from which the retention tab 14 and the main body 12 are
both formed, is deformed during the moulding process such that a
formed score line having a substantially U-shaped cross section is
created. In other embodiments, the score line may take alternative
shapes for example, but not limited to, a V-shaped notch; a
V-shaped notch which may have a flat base portion between the side
walls; or a square notch having a flat base portion and upright
side walls.
[0133] FIG. 1-2 illustrates a cross section of the rear end portion
of the primary package 10. In FIG. 1-2, a first series of empty
blisters 16 are disposed at a distance "x" from a second series of
empty blisters 18. Optionally, the second series of blisters 18 are
substantially triangular or wedge-shaped in cross-section, whereas
the first series of blisters 16 are substantially rectangular or
trapezoidal in cross-section. In other embodiments the blisters 16,
18 may have alternative shapes. The first series of empty blisters
16 are separated from the second series of blisters 18 by a
distance "x". Optionally, the distance "x" is less than or equal to
about 5 mm, and more optionally equal to or less than 2 mm. Each
false blister 16, 18 is spaced a distance of about 2.5 mm or less,
and optionally about 1 mm or less, from the hinged connection
17.
[0134] The primary package 10 is formed by moulding a sheet of
material to simultaneously form (or co-form) the blisters 11 for
receiving the article, the first and second series of empty
blisters 16, 18, and the hinged connection 17. The sheet of
material is then cut to shape to form the primary package 10 shown
in FIG. 1-1. Optionally, a plurality of primary packages 10 is
moulded simultaneously from a single sheet of material and then
during the cutting process the plurality of primary packages 10 is
cut from the sheet of material. It will be appreciated that the
fold line or hinged connection 17 is an integral formation within
the material of the primary package 10.
[0135] The hinged connection 17 can be formed as a crease or fold
line, in the same processing step as forming the empty cavities 16,
18 provided on the retention tab 14 and main body 12. This allows
the edge of the cavities 16, 18 to be within one millimetre of the
hinged connection 17. The gap or area between the first series of
blisters 18 and the second series of blisters 16 can be minimised.
This increases the amount of force required to make the primary
package 10 fail and pull it out of the sleeve 700 without employing
a release mechanism on the sleeve 700, thereby increasing the child
resistance of the package. The hinged connection 17 is formed as an
embossment or debossment within the material forming the primary
package 10. The hinged connection 17 defines an interface or
demarcation between the panel forming the retention tab 14 and the
panel forming the main body 12.
[0136] Another advantage of simultaneously moulding, or otherwise
forming, the hinged connection 17 whilst forming the blisters 11,
16, 18 is that a processing stage such as perforating or cold
scoring the primary package 10 can be eliminated.
[0137] Turning to the construction of a sleeve 700 as illustrated
in FIGS. 1-3 to 1-7, it is envisaged that the sleeve 700 can be
formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight
line machine so that the sleeve 700 is not required to be rotated
or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is
not limited to that described below and may be altered according to
particular manufacturing requirements.
[0138] As shown in FIG. 1-3, the blank 709 has a series of foldably
attached panels including front panel 710, first side panel 715,
back panel 720, second side panel 725, first auxiliary panel 730,
and second auxiliary panel 740. The sleeve 700 may receive the
primary package 10 and together the sleeve 700 and the primary
package 10 form a packaging system P (FIGS. 1-8 and 1-9).
[0139] Front panel 710 may include a release button 717 in the form
of an area denoted by a cutline 718 which be generally U-shaped.
The release button 717 may have score lines 719 to provide
stiffness. A cutaway 716 may be provided which may coincide with
other cutaways in the finished sleeve 700.
[0140] Back panel 720 at one end may be hingedly attached to a
first or outer end closure flap 722, whose corners may also be
provided with perforations (not shown). Back panel 720 at its
opposite end may be provided with an inward facing flap 724 that
may be useful for retaining contents within the sleeve. A cutaway
726 may be provided which may coincide with other cutaways in the
finished sleeve 700.
[0141] The first auxiliary panel 730 at the one end may have an
aperture 739 shaped to engage a catch feature such as the edge of
retention tab 14 of the primary package 10. Release tongue 738 may
extend into the aperture 739 to act along with release button 717
and release tongue 748. At the other end of the first auxiliary
panel 730 may be provided an inward facing flap 734 that may be
useful for retaining contents within the sleeve 700. Inward facing
flap 734 provides a retention feature which engages with the
retention tab 14 of the primary package 10 to prevent unintentional
separation of the primary package 10 from the sleeve 700. A cutaway
736 may be provided which may coincide with other cutaways in the
finished sleeve 700.
[0142] The second auxiliary panel 740 at one end may have an
aperture 749 also shaped to engage the catch feature. Release
tongue 748 may extend into the aperture 749 to act along with
release button 717 and release tongue 738. For example the release
button 717, release tongue 738, and release tongue 748 may all
deflect inwardly when a user applies inward pressure to the release
button 717. Second auxiliary panel 740 at this end may be hingedly
attached to a second or inner end closure flap 742. At the opposite
end, which forms an open end O of the sleeve 700, cutaway 746 may
be provided which may coincide with other cutaways in the finished
sleeve 700. The distal long end of the second auxiliary panel 740
may be partially cut away as shown by cutaway 747.
[0143] In the blank 709 as shown in FIG. 1-3, the upward-facing
surfaces may comprise a heat-seal coating which may be located
generally on the inside surfaces of the finished sleeve 700. The
opposite surface of the blank may have a surface adapted
particularly for printing, and may be located generally on the
outside of the finished sleeve 700.
[0144] The blank shown in FIG. 1-3 may be folded such that the
second auxiliary panel 740 is folded backward and behind the first
auxiliary panel 730. The auxiliary panels 730, 740 may be attached
together for example by glue, hot melt glue, or heat sealable
coating. This results in the configuration shown in FIG. 1-4, where
the now hidden second auxiliary panel 740 is denoted by phantom
lines. The cutaways 736, 746 are seen to coincide along the edge of
the structure. Also release tongues 738, 748 generally overlap in
this configuration.
[0145] The inward facing flaps 724, 734 may now be folded inwardly
upon back panel 720 and first auxiliary panel 730, respectively.
These flaps 724, 734 may be held in place by the creased fold, or
may be glued against their respective panels, or heat sealed
thereto.
[0146] The structure shown in FIG. 1-4 may be folded as denoted by
arrow A30 with the auxiliary panels 730, 740 folded forwards and
over back panel 720. This results in the configuration shown in
FIG. 1-6, where the back panel 720, second side panel 725, and
auxiliary panels 730, 740 make up three walls of a tubular
structure. It should be noted that the use of tear resistant
materials, and/or more than one layer, help to improve the tamper-
and theft-resistance of the package. For example such a coating or
treatment may also be on the surface of the substrate that will
become the interior of the package. Alternately the inside surface
may be left untreated, which might still provide a better sealing
surface than some coated surfaces, for example those with coatings
optimized for printing, or glossy coatings.
[0147] To finish assembling the sleeve 700, as shown in FIG. 1-6,
the inner closure flap 742 is first folded downward. The outer
closure flap 722 may then be folded upwardly into facing contact
with the inner closure flap 742.
[0148] After the front panel 710 has been folded up and over
secondary auxiliary panel 740, these two panels may be sealed or
secured together giving the finished sleeve 700 seen in FIG.
1-7.
[0149] Cutaway 747 in second auxiliary panel 740 allows a portion
of the inner surface of front panel 710 to seal to a portion of the
surface of the first auxiliary panel 730.
[0150] As the front panel 710 is secured to both auxiliary panels
730, 740, the front panel 710 in effect has three plies of material
at least in part. This stiffens the front panel 710, which may help
prevent bowing of the sleeve 700 for example when squeezed
transversely by engaging the side panels 715, 725. It will be
appreciated that the sleeve 700 comprises a three ply front panel
710, 730, 740 and a single ply back panel 720. As illustrated in
FIGS. 1-8 and 1-9 the front panel 710, 730, 740 is disposed
uppermost and the back panel 720 is disposed lowermost. In FIG.
1-10 however the front panel 710, 730, 740 is disposed lowermost
and the back panel 720 is disposed uppermost.
[0151] Turning now to FIG. 1-8, there is shown a cross section,
taken along line B-B shown in FIG. 1-7, of the rear end portion of
the sleeve 700 including a primary package 10. The primary package
10 is slideably received in the sleeve 700. The retention tab 14 is
folded such that the portion of the cover sheet S disposed upon the
retention tab 14 is folded towards the portion of the cover sheet S
disposed upon the main body 12. In this way the first and second
series of blisters 16, 18 are arranged such that the cover sheet S
is disposed therebetween. As illustrated the second series of
blisters 18 is disposed uppermost facing the three ply front panel
710, 730, 740 and the first series of blisters 16 is disposed
lowermost facing the back panel 720. In this way the hinged
connection 17 is disposed in close proximity to both the rear wall
of the second series of blisters 18 and the front wall of the first
series of blisters 16. The free end edge 9 of the retention tab 14
is received within a recess R defined in part by the apertures 739,
749 struck from the first and second auxiliary panels 730, 740. The
recess R forms a catch mechanism for locking the primary package 10
within the sleeve 700. The free end edge 9 of the retention tab 14
is in engagement with an edge of the first and/or second auxiliary
panels 730, 740 defined by the respective apertures 739, 749. In
this way the primary package 10 is locked securely within the
sleeve 700. The primary package 10 can be released from the sleeve
700 by pressing upon the release button 717 so as to displace the
retention tab 14 out of the recess R. The primary package 10 can
then be slid out of the open end "0" of the sleeve 700 as shown in
FIG. 1-10. The contents of the blisters 11 can then be dispensed or
removed, for example by pressing upon the blisters 11 so as to push
the contents through the cover sheet S. In the closed or received
position, the retention tab 14 and the front panels 710, 730, 740
define angle .alpha. therebetween.
[0152] FIG. 1-9 illustrates a cross section, taken along line B-B
shown in FIG. 1-7, of the rear end portion of the sleeve 700
including a primary package 10 in which a pulling force is applied,
in the direction of arrow F, to the primary package 10, placing the
primary package 10 in a state of tension. This may be achieved for
example by grasping the main body 12 and pulling in a direction
outwardly of the open end "0" of the sleeve 700. The release button
717 has not been depressed to disengage the retention tab 14 from
the recess R. This simulates the child-resistant features of the
packaging system P in operation. The first series of blisters 16
have been displaced such that the blisters 16 contact the back
panel 720; this requires the main body 12 to deform slightly
between the first series of empty blisters 16 and the
content-holding blisters 11. Bringing the first series of blisters
16 into contact with the back panel 720 prevents the retention tab
14 from unfolding about hinge connection 17 or at least increases
the force which would need to be applied in order to unfold the
retention tab 14 and thus release the primary package 10 from the
sleeve without employing the release mechanism.
[0153] It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the first
series of blisters 16 may be dimensioned such that they are
substantially in contact with the back panel 720 when in an
untensioned or relaxed state, as illustrated in FIG. 1-8.
[0154] The retention tab 14 has been displaced such that it is
disposed at a greater inclination with respect to the front panel
710, 730, 740; that is to say the retention tab 14 and the front
panel 710, 730, 740 define angle .beta. therebetween, the angle
.beta. being greater than the angle .alpha. shown in FIG. 1-8. This
has the effect of directing the free edge 9 of the retention tab 14
further into the recess R, thereby improving the engagement between
the retention tab 14 and the recess R.
[0155] Referring now to FIGS. 1-11 to 1-15, there are shown
alternative embodiments of the present invention. In the second,
third and fourth illustrated embodiments, like numerals have, where
possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition
of the prefix "100", "200" or "300" and so on to indicate that
these features belong to the second, third or fourth embodiment.
The alternative embodiments share many common features with the
first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the
embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-1 to 1-10 will be described in
any greater detail.
[0156] FIG. 1-11 illustrates a primary package 110 according to a
second embodiment of the first invention. The package is shown with
its bumpy side facing the viewer of FIG. 1-11. The term "bumpy
side" used throughout this application refers to the side of a
primary package from which blisters, such as empty blisters 116,
118, protrude. The primary package 110 comprises a main body 112
having an item receiving area 113 for receiving an item to be
packaged such as, but not limited to, a syringe or other medical
device. The item receiving area 113 may comprise a moulded recess
or blister (not shown) which is shaped complementarily to the item.
The item may be sealed within the recess by a cover sheet. In
alternative embodiments the item receiving area 113 may be
substantially flat and the item may be attached to the receiving
area by an adhesive. In other embodiments the item may be placed
upon the receiving area 113 and a sheet of material or film (not
shown) may be applied to the item and the primary package 110 such
that the film holds the item upon the primary package 110. In yet
other embodiments, the receiving area 113 may comprise one or more
mechanical devices or clips either integrally formed therein or
secured thereto and the mechanical devices may be used to securely
hold the item to the primary package 110. The hinged connection 117
extends entirely across the width of the retention tab 114 (or that
of the main body 112). The hinged connection 117 is co-formed with
the empty blisters 116 and 118 (and optionally with the item
receiving area 113 if the area 113 includes, or by itself is, a
moulded portion). The primary package 110 can be employed in
combination with the sleeve illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 to 1-7, to
form a packaging system.
[0157] FIGS. 1-12 and 1-13 illustrate a primary package 210
according to a third embodiment. In FIG. 1-12, the primary package
is illustrated with its bumpy side facing the viewer of that
figure. The primary package 210 comprises a main body 212 having an
item receiving area 213 for receiving an item to be packaged. The
primary package 210 comprises a retention tab 214 hinged to the
main body 212 by a hinged connection 217. The hinged connection 217
is a formed hinge or score line integrally moulded between the main
body 212 and the retention tab 214. The hinged connection 217
extends entirely across the width of the retention tab 214 (or that
of the main body 212). The hinged connection 217 is co-formed with
the empty blisters 218 (and optionally with the item receiving area
213 if the area 213 includes, or by itself is, a moulded portion).
The retention tab 214 comprises a series of empty cavities or
blisters 218 which are arranged in a linear series transversely
across the retention tab 214. FIG. 1-13 shows a cross section of
the rear end portion of the primary package of FIG. 1-12. As shown
in FIG. 1-13, the empty blisters 218 are each spaced at a distance
"y" from the hinged connection 217. Optionally the distance "y" is
less than or equal to about 2.5 mm, and more Optionally less than
or equal to about 1 mm. Optionally, the blisters 218 are wedge
shaped or tapered such that they are deeper at an end adjacent to
the hinged connection 217 than they are at an end adjacent a free
end edge 209 of the retention tab 214. The free end edge 209 of the
retention tab 214 engages with an edge of the first and/or second
auxiliary panel 730, 740 defined by the aperture 739, 749. The
primary package 210 can be employed in combination with the sleeve
illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 to 1-7, to form a packaging system.
[0158] FIGS. 1-14 and 1-15 illustrate a primary package 310
according to a fourth embodiment. In FIG. 1-14, the primary package
is shown with its bumpy side facing toward the viewer. The primary
package 310 comprises a main body 312 having an item receiving area
313 for receiving an item to be packaged. The primary package 310
comprises a first series of empty blisters 316 arranged in a linear
series and spaced apart from one another transversely across the
primary package 310. The primary package 310 comprises a second
series of empty blisters 318 arranged in a linear series and spaced
apart from one another transversely across the primary package 310.
The first and second series of blisters 316, 318 are arranged so as
to be proximate a notional line N. In some embodiments the blisters
316, 318 of each of the first and second series of blisters 316,
318 are spaced at a distance of 1 mm or less from the notional line
N. In another embodiment the blisters 316, 318 of each of the first
and second series of blisters 316, 318 are spaced at a distance of
0.5 mm or less from the notional line N. In yet another embodiment
the blisters of each of the first and second series of blisters
316, 318 are arranged close to each other such that some or all of
the empty blisters 318 on the retention tab 314 terminate on the
single notional line N on which some or all of the empty blisters
316 on the main body 312 also terminate. Such an arrangement will
allow the retention tab 314 to be folded along the notional line N
with respect to the main body 312 when a folding force is applied
to the retention tab 314. The notional line N defines a region of
the primary package 310 along which it is folded, and as such
defines an interface between the retention tab 314 and the main
body 312. FIG. 1-15 shows a cross section, taken along line D-D in
FIG. 1-14, of the rear end portion of the primary package 310. In
the embodiment shown in FIG. 1-15, the front wall 307 of the
blister 318 is arranged so as to be inclined with respect to the
plane of the main body 312. The rear wall 305 of the blister 316
(it will be appreciated that the blister 316 is offset from the
blister 318) is also arranged to be inclined. The front wall 307 of
the blister 318 and the rear wall 305 of the blister 316 define an
acute angle therebetween. In other embodiments the front wall 307
of the blister 318 may be arranged to be substantially
perpendicular to the cover sheet S, and the rear wall 305 of the
blister 316 may also be arranged to be substantially perpendicular
to the cover sheet S. In some embodiments, at least a portion of
the front wall 307 of the blister 318 may be substantially in
contact with the rear wall 305 of the blister 316.
[0159] In other embodiments each blister 316 of the first series of
blisters 316 may be offset in a transverse direction with respect
to each blister 318 of the second series of blisters 318. The
primary package 310 can be employed in combination with the sleeve
illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 to 7, to form a packaging system.
[0160] Referring now to FIGS. 1-16 and 1-17, there is shown an
example of a primary package 410. In the example, like numerals
have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with
the addition of the prefix "400" to indicate that these features
belong to the example. The example shares many common features with
the first to fourth embodiments of the present invention and
therefore only the differences from the embodiments illustrated in
FIGS. 1-1 to 1-15 will be described in any greater detail.
[0161] FIG. 1-16 illustrates a plan view of an example of a primary
package 410 in which a main body 412 is hinged to retention tab 414
by a hinged connection 419. Hinged connection 419 is created by
perforating the material forming the primary package 410 with a
knife or other suitable tool. In other examples the hinged
connection 419 may be created by cold scoring the primary package
410.
[0162] The processing step of perforating or cold scoring the
primary package 410 is performed separately to the processing step
of forming the empty blisters 416, 418 and, when present, the
content-holding blisters 411. These methods require that the empty
cavities or blisters 416, 418, that are disposed on one or both
sides of the hinged connection 419, are disposed further away from
the hinged connection 419 than the false blisters 16, 18; 116, 118;
218; 316, 318 are spaced from the hinged connection 17; 117; 217;
317 in the foregoing embodiments, in which foregoing embodiments
the hinged connection 17; 117; 217; 317 is integrally formed during
the moulding processing step.
[0163] The first series of empty blisters 416 is disposed at a
distance "z" from the second series of blisters 418. The distance
"z" is greater than the distance "x", for example the distance "z"
is greater than 5 mm, with each of the first and second series of
blisters 416, 418 being disposed more than 2.5 mm from the hinged
connection 419. The increase in space between the first and second
series of blisters 416, 418 allows for manufacturing tolerances
when using the two stage manufacturing process. However, this
additional space can weaken the primary package 410 and reduces the
pull-out force F, thus reducing the strength of the child resistant
features of the packaging system P'.
[0164] The primary package 410 also includes a reinforcing
structure 415, formed as a unitary empty blister. The reinforcing
structure 415 is unitary with the first series of empty blisters
416 which are disposed adjacent to the hinged connection 419. An
elongate portion of the reinforcing structure 415 extends
longitudinally across the main body 412. Optionally, the elongate
portion is disposed centrally within the main body 412 and
content-holding blisters 411 are disposed on opposing sides
thereof. It is envisaged that the reinforcing structure 415 shown
in the example of FIG. 1-16 may be employed in the foregoing
embodiments. The primary package 410 can be employed in combination
with the sleeve illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 to 1-7, to form a
packaging system.
[0165] Turning now to FIG. 1-17, there is illustrated a cross
section, taken along line B-B shown in FIG. 1-7, of the rear end
portion of the sleeve 700 containing the primary package 410 shown
in FIG. 1-16, in which a force is applied, in the direction of
arrow F, to the primary package 410, placing the primary package
410 in a state of tension. The region of the primary package 410
between the first series of blisters 416 and the second series of
blisters 418 is deformed, such that rather than being folded along
the hinged connection 419 the primary package 410 has folded about
a first location disposed proximate to the front wall 405 of the
first blister 416 and has folded about a second location disposed
proximate the rear wall 407 of the second blister 418. This
deformation has the effect of moving the retention tab 414 in a
generally downward direction. That is, away from the front panel
710 and auxiliary panels 730, 740, thereby reducing the
effectiveness of the engagement between the retention tab 414 and
the recess R.
[0166] Furthermore, the displacement of the retention tab 414
increases the likelihood that retention tab 414 may unfold, as
indicated by direction arrow D1 since, as a result of the
deformation, the retention tab 414 is now pivotable about a
location disposed proximate the back panel 720. The deformation has
increased the headroom available to the retention tab 414 for
unfolding when compared to headroom available when in a relaxed or
untensioned state.
[0167] Referring now to FIGS. 1-18 to 1-24, there are shown further
alternative embodiments of the present invention. In the fifth,
sixth and seventh illustrated embodiments, like numerals have,
where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the
addition of the prefix "500", "600" or "800" and so on to indicate
that these features belong to the fifth, sixth or seventh
embodiment. The further alternative embodiments share many common
features with the foregoing embodiments and therefore only the
differences from the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1-1 to 1-17
will be described in any greater detail.
[0168] FIG. 1-18 illustrates a plan view of a primary package 510
according to a fifth embodiment; the primary package 510 can be
employed in combination with the sleeve 700 illustrated in FIGS.
1-3 to 1-7.
[0169] The primary package 510 in the form of an inner slide card
or lockable slide card comprises a main body 512 having a plurality
of cavities or blisters 511 for receiving an article such as, but
not limited to, a medicament.
[0170] A retention tab 514, also known as a tail locking flap, is
hinged to the first end of the main body 512. The retention tab 514
is employed to lock the primary package 510 within the sleeve 700
in a first position in which the primary package 510 is fully
inserted into the sleeve 700. The retention tab 514 may also be
employed to restrict withdrawal of the primary package 510 from the
sleeve 700; the retention tab 514 is configured so as to engage
with the retention feature 734 provided upon the sleeve 700.
[0171] A first series of empty blisters 516 are provided on the
main body 512. A second series of blisters 518 are provided on the
retention tab 514. The second series of blisters 518 are
substantially triangular or wedge-shaped in cross-section as
illustrated by FIG. 1-20A. Alternatively, the second series of
blisters 518 may be substantially triangular or wedge-shaped in
cross-section as illustrated by FIG. 1-20B.
[0172] An empty blister 530 is disposed at each end of the second
series of blisters 518. Each of the empty blisters 530 is
orientated at angle to the adjacent one of the empty blisters 518
of the second series. The angle is optionally between 40 and 50
degrees, for example 45 degrees. The empty blisters 530 are
substantially triangular or wedge shaped in cross-section as
illustrated by FIG. 1-20B. (Alternatively, the empty blisters 530
may be substantially triangular or wedge shaped in cross-section as
illustrated by FIG. 1-20A; all the blisters 518 of the second
series as well as the empty blisters 530 may have the same cross
section such as shown in either FIG. 1-20A or 1-20B. Otherwise, one
or some of the blisters 518 and 530 may be of the cross section of
one of FIGS. 1-20A and 1-20B while the other(s) of the blisters 518
and 530 may be of the cross section of the other of FIGS. 1-20A and
1-20B.) Each of the empty blisters 530, when viewed in plan view
from above, are substantially stadium shaped, that is to say a
rectangle with top and bottom lengths whose ends are capped off
with semicircles. A first end of each of the empty blisters 530 is
disposed adjacent to a respective one of the first series of empty
blisters 516; a second end of each of the empty blisters 530 is
disposed adjacent to a free end of the retention tab 514. The first
end of each of the empty blisters 530 is disposed in closer
proximity to the adjacent one of the empty blisters 518 of the
second series than the second end of the empty blister 530. In this
way the empty blisters 530 are convergent with respect to each
other towards the main body 512.
[0173] The first series of empty blisters 516 are disposed in close
proximity to the second series of blisters 518. In the illustrated
embodiment the blisters 518 of the first series are in contact
with, or touching, the adjacent blisters 518 of the second
series.
[0174] The first and second series of blisters 516, 518 are
arranged so as to be proximate a notional line N, shown in FIG.
1-19. In some embodiments the blisters 516, 518 of each of the
first and second series of blisters 516, 518 are spaced a distance
of 1 mm or less from the notional line N. In another embodiment the
blisters 516, 518 of each of the first and second series of
blisters 516, 518 are spaced a distance of 0.5 mm or less from the
notional line N. In yet another embodiment the blisters of each of
the first and second series of blisters 516, 518 are arranged close
to each other such that some or all of the empty blisters 518 on
the retention tab 514 terminate on the single notional line N on
which some or all of the empty blisters 516 on the main body 512
also terminate. Such an arrangement will allow the retention tab
514 to be folded along the notional line N with respect to the main
body 512 when a folding force is applied to the retention tab 514.
The notional line N defines a region of the primary package 510
along which it is folded, and as such defines an interface between
the retention tab 514 and the main body 512. In some embodiments at
least a portion of the rear wall of the blister 518 may be
substantially in contact with the front wall of the blister
516.
[0175] The primary package 510 comprises a pair of hinged
connections 517 in the form of formed or moulded score lines 517.
The hinged connections 517 extend respectively from the opposed
side edges of the retention tab 514 (or those of the main body 512)
and stop short of each other to leave a section between the hinged
connections 517 where there is no hinged connection. Both the
hinged connections 517 are co-formed with the blisters 511, 516,
518 and 530. The hinged connections 517 are integrally formed
within the sheet of material forming the main body 512 and
retention tab 514, as best illustrated in FIGS. 1-21 and 1-22. The
hinged connections 517 are each a formed score line and are each an
integral formation within the primary package 510. The sheet of
material, from which the retention tab 514 and main body 512 are
both formed, is deformed during the moulding process such that a
formed score line having a substantially U-shaped cross section is
created. In other embodiments the score line may take alternative
shapes, for example, but not limited to, a V-shaped notch; a
V-shaped notch which may have a flat base portion between the side
walls; or a square notch having a flat base portion and upright
side walls. A first of the hinged connections 517 extends from a
first free side edge of the primary package 510 partially across
the primary package 510. The first of the hinged connections 517 is
arranged to be substantially perpendicular to the first free side
edge of the primary package 510. A second of the hinged connections
517 extends from a second free side edge of the primary package
510; the second free edge opposes the first free edge partially
across the primary package 510. The second of the hinged
connections 517 is arranged to be substantially perpendicular to
the second free side edge of the primary package 510. The first and
second hinged connections 517 are arranged to be collinear with
each other.
[0176] The notional line N extends between the pair of hinged
connections 517 so as to form a continuous fold line when the
retention tab 514 is folded about the hinged connections 517 with
respect to the main body 512. The fold line, when fully formed, is
linear and extends transversely across the primary package 510. The
notional line N is collinear with the first and second hinged
connections 517. The notional line N interrupts the first and
second hinged connections 517.
[0177] Referring to FIG. 1-22 it can be seen that the empty
blisters 530 are disposed at a distance "y" from the centre of the
hinged connection 517. The empty blisters 516 are disposed at a
distance "z" from the centre of the hinged connection 517. The
empty blisters 516 are disposed at a distance equal to the sum of
the distance "y" and the distance "z" from the empty blisters
530.
[0178] Optionally, the distance "y+z" is less than or equal to
about 5 mm, and more optionally equal to or less than 2 mm. Each
false blister 516, 518 is spaced a distance of about 2.5 mm or
less, and optionally about 1 mm or less, from the hinged connection
517.
[0179] FIG. 1-23 illustrates a plan view of a primary package 610
according to a sixth embodiment; the primary package 610 can be
employed in combination with the sleeve 700 illustrated in FIGS.
1-3 to 1-7.
[0180] The primary package 610 in the form of an inner slide card
or lockable slide card comprises a main body 612 having a plurality
of cavities or blisters 611 for receiving an article such as, but
not limited to, a medicament.
[0181] A retention tab 614, also known as a tail locking flap, is
hinged to the first end of the main body 612. The retention tab 614
is employed to lock the primary package 610 within the sleeve 700
in a first position in which the primary package 610 is fully
inserted into the sleeve 700. The retention tab 614 may also be
employed to restrict withdrawal of the primary package 610 from the
sleeve 700; the retention tab 614 is configured so as to engage
with the retention feature 734 provided upon the sleeve 700.
[0182] A first series of empty blisters 616 are provided on the
main body 612. A second series of blisters 618 are provided on the
retention tab 614. The second series of blisters 618 are
substantially triangular or wedge-shaped when viewed from the
side.
[0183] An empty blister 630 is disposed at each end of the second
series of blisters 618. Each of the empty blisters 630 is
orientated at angle to the adjacent one of the empty blisters 618
of the second series of blisters 618. The angle is optionally
between 40 and 50 degrees, for example 45 degrees. The empty
blisters 630 are substantially triangular or wedge-shaped when
viewed from the side. Each of the empty blisters 630, when viewed
in plan view from above, are substantially stadium shaped, that is
to say a rectangle with top and bottom lengths whose ends are
capped off with semicircles. A first end of each of the empty
blisters 630 is disposed adjacent to a respective one of the first
series of empty blisters 616; a second end of each of the empty
blisters 630 is disposed adjacent to a free end of the retention
tab 614. The first end of each of the empty blisters 630 is
disposed in closer proximity to the adjacent one of the empty
blisters 618 of the second series of blisters 618 than the second
end of the empty blister 630. In this way the empty blisters 630
are convergent with respect to each other towards the main body
612.
[0184] A pair of recesses or cutaways C is struck from the
retention tab 614. Each of the recesses or cutaways C is disposed
between an empty blister 630 and the adjacent endmost blister 618
of the second series of blisters 618.
[0185] The first series of empty blisters 616 are disposed in close
proximity to the second series of blisters 618.
[0186] The retention tab 614 is hinged to the main body by a hinged
connection 617. The hinged connection 617 extends transversely
across the width of the retention tab 614 (or that of the main body
612). The hinged connection 617 is co-formed with the blisters 611,
616, 618 and 630. The hinged connection 617 is integrally formed
within the sheet of material forming the main body 612 and
retention tab 614. The hinged connection 617 is an interrupted
formed score line and is an integral formation within the primary
package 610. The sheet of material, from which the retention tab
614 and main body 612 are both formed, is deformed during the
moulding process such that a formed score line having substantially
U-shaped cross section is created.
[0187] In the illustrated embodiment the hinged connection 617 is
interrupted in three locations such that the hinged connection 617
forms a plurality of (four) spaced apart integrally formed score
lines 617.
[0188] The location of each of the interruptions corresponds with a
gap or void between two adjacent rows of blisters 611. The
interruptions each define a notional line N which is collinear with
the plurality of spaced apart integrally formed score lines. Each
notional line N extends between a pair of adjacent ones of the
plurality of spaced apart integrally formed score lines. The
blisters 611 are arranged in a matrix or array, so as to form rows
and columns. The blisters 611 in one row or column are spaced apart
from those in an adjacent row or column. This forms a plurality of
(three) longitudinally extending voids on the main body 612.
Optionally, a plurality of transversely extending voids is formed
on the main body 612. Each of the interruptions in the hinged
connection 617 is collinear with one of the plurality of
longitudinally extending voids defined upon the main body 612 by
the blisters 611.
[0189] FIG. 1-24 illustrates a plan view of a primary package 810
according to a seventh embodiment; the primary package 810 can be
employed in combination with the sleeve 700 illustrated in FIGS.
1-3 to 1-7.
[0190] The primary package 810 in the form of an inner slide card
or lockable slide card comprises a main body 812 having a plurality
of cavities or blisters 811 for receiving an article such as, but
not limited to, a medicament.
[0191] A retention tab 814, also known as a tail locking flap, is
hinged to the first end of the main body 812. The retention tab 814
is employed to lock the primary package 810 within the sleeve 700
in a first position in which the primary package 810 is fully
inserted into the sleeve 700. The retention tab 814 may also be
employed to restrict withdrawal of the primary package 810 from the
sleeve 700; the retention tab 814 is configured so as to engage
with the retention feature 734 provided upon the sleeve 700.
[0192] A first series of empty blisters 816 are provided on the
main body 812. A second series of blisters 818 are provided on the
retention tab 814. The second series of blisters 818 are
substantially triangular or wedge shaped when viewed from the
side.
[0193] The first series of empty blisters 816 are disposed in close
proximity to the second series of blisters 818.
[0194] The retention tab 814 is hinged to the main body by a hinged
connection 817. The hinged connection 817 extends transversely
across the width of the retention tab 814 (or that of the main body
812). The hinged connection 817 is co-formed with the blisters 811,
816 and 618. The hinged connection 817 is integrally formed within
the sheet of material forming the main body 812 and retention tab
814. The hinged connection 817 is an interrupted formed score line
and is an integral formation within the primary package 810. The
sheet of material from which the retention tab 814 and main body
812 are both formed, is deformed during the moulding process such
that a formed score line having substantially U-shaped cross
section is created.
[0195] In the illustrated embodiment the hinged connection 817 is
interrupted in eight locations such that the hinged connection 817
forms a plurality of (nine) spaced apart integrally formed score
lines.
[0196] The blisters 811 are arranged in a matrix or array, so as to
form rows and columns. The blisters 811 in one row or column are
spaced apart, by gaps, from the blisters 811 in an adjacent row or
column. This forms a plurality of longitudinally extending valleys
or voids V on the main body 812. Optionally, a plurality of
transversely extending voids is formed on the main body 812. It
will be appreciated that the longitudinally extending voids V are
elongate regions of the primary package 810 which are free from
blisters 811.
[0197] Each of the empty blisters 816 of the first series of empty
blisters 816 is configured so that it is in longitudinal alignment
with one of the rows of blisters 811 provided on the main body
812.
[0198] Each of the empty blisters 818 of the second series of empty
blisters 818 is configured so that it is in longitudinal alignment
with one of the rows of blisters 811 provided on the main body
812.
[0199] In this way the longitudinally extending voids V on the main
body 812 between the blisters 811 extend across the main body 812
and across the retention tab 814. The longitudinally extending
voids V are indicated in FIG. 1-24 by notional lines N1 to N8 shown
as phantom (dashed) lines
[0200] The location of each the interruptions of the hinged
connection 817 corresponds with one of the longitudinally extending
voids V. Each of the interruptions in the hinged connection 817 is
collinear with one of the plurality of longitudinally extending
voids V defined upon the main body 812 by the blisters 811.
[0201] Providing interruptions in an integrally moulded hinged
connection 517; 617; 817 is advantageous when handling the primary
packages 510; 610; 810. In some embodiments a plurality of primary
packages 510; 610; 810 are formed from a sheet of material and then
subsequently separated from each other by a cutting or separation
process. FIG. 1-25 illustrates an example in which a plurality of
primary packages 810 is formed from a sheet 1000. In the
illustrated example six primary packages 810 are formed from the
sheet 1000; however, in other embodiments other integer numbers of
primary packages 810 may be provided. FIGS. 1-26A and 1-26B
illustrate the sheet 1000 being conveyed to a roller device D of a
processing machine. At the roller device D the primary packages 810
are cut from the sheet of material 1000, or in alternative
embodiments the primary packages 810 are separated from each other,
by a cutting or separating device (not shown) whilst being bent or
deformed about the roller device D. The sheet of material 1000
which has been moulded with the blisters 811 and empty blisters
816, 818 and the hinged connections 817 is conveyed, as indicated
by direction arrow A1, to the roller device D such that that the
hinged connections 817 are orientated perpendicularly with respect
to a tubular axis L of the roller device D. The interruptions in
the hinged connections 817 facilitate bending of the sheet of
material S about the roller device D. It will be appreciated that
when the hinged connections 817 are solid, that is to say
uninterrupted, the hinged connections 817 encumber or resist
bending or deformation of the sheet of material 1000 about the
roller device D.
[0202] It is further advantageous for the empty or false blisters
816, 818 and the product carrying blisters 811 to be configured so
as to provide flat or unformed regions which extend across the
sheet of material 1000. These longitudinally extending voids V are
arranged to be parallel with the tubular axis L of the roller
device D and are arranged transversely with respect to the
direction of travel A1.
[0203] Yet a further advantage of aligning the interruptions in the
integrally moulded hinged connection 517; 617; 817 with the voids
between rows (or columns) of blisters 811, 816, 818 is that a
predefined bend region is provided such that the sheet of material
1000 is encouraged to bend in the predefined bend region and
discouraged from bending in the region where blisters 811, 816, 818
are provided. This is especially advantageous in embodiments in
which products are loaded into the product carrying blisters 811
and sealed therein with a cover sheet before being conveyed to a
roller device D, thereby preserving the integrity of the product
carrying blisters 811.
[0204] It will be appreciated that by providing an integrally
moulded hinged connection 17; 117; 217; 317; 517; 617; 817 that a
processing step is removed from the manufacturing process of the
primary package 10; 110; 210; 310; 510; 610; 810.
[0205] Additionally, the child resistant features of the primary
package 10; 110; 210; 310; 510; 610; 810 is enhanced since the
empty blisters 16, 18; 116, 118; 218; 316, 318; 516, 518, 530; 616,
618, 630; 816, 818 are disposed in close proximity to the hinged
connection 17; 117; 217; 317; 517; 617; 817 thereby reducing the
likelihood of deformation of the primary package 10; 110; 210; 310;
510; 610; 810 in the region of the hinged connection 17; 117; 217;
317; 517; 617; 817 or at least increasing the magnitude of the
force which must be applied to forcibly remove the primary package
10; 110; 210; 310; 510; 610; 810 from the sleeve 700 when in a
locked configuration, in other words without disengaging the
locking mechanism formed by the retention tab 14; 114; 214; 314;
514; 214; 814 and the recess R.
[0206] Referring now to FIGS. 2-1 through 2-13, the second
invention is described referring to multiple embodiments
illustrated in those figures.
[0207] The present invention provides a restricted access package
`P` comprising a lockable receptacle (e.g., a blister strip, an
inner slide card, a slidable tray or box, etc.) 10 and an outer
shell 700. The lockable receptacle 10 and outer shell 700 have
co-operative features which can lock the receptacle 10 within the
outer shell 700 to thereby allow only restricted access to the
receptacle 700. Additionally, the receptacle 10 and outer shell 700
of the present invention have co-operative features to enable the
receptacle 10 to be unlocked and at least partially withdrawn or
slid out from the outer shell 700 so that a user may access the
blisters `B` and articles held therein. In a locked configuration
of the package `P`, the receptacle 10 is stowed within the
respective outer shell 700 and locked in place by a mechanical
complementary locking mechanism such that the articles held in the
cavity or cavities `B` cannot be accessed. Operation of a release
mechanism is required in order to unlock the receptacle 10 from the
outer shell 700 and to allow its withdrawal from the outer shell
700.
[0208] Operation of the release mechanism requires knowledge of the
operation of the locking mechanism and some dexterity to operate
the unlocking features and, at the same time, withdraw the lockable
receptacle. In this way, access to the lockable receptacle may be
restricted to only those users of sufficient knowledge and
dexterity.
[0209] As a further optional aspect of the invention, it is
envisaged that in certain embodiments, the lockable receptacle 10
and outer shell 700 may have co-operative features to prevent,
restrict or otherwise mitigate against the receptacle 10 from being
completely removed from the outer shell 700. An unlocked
configuration is illustrated in FIG. 2-1, wherein the blister strip
10 is disengaged and withdrawn, albeit only to a permitted and
limited extent, from the outer shell 700.
[0210] It will be understood upon reading the foregoing that the
present invention provides an outer shell 700 with beneficial
features, and a lockable receptacle 10, 110 with beneficial
features. The outer shell 700 and lockable inner receptacle 10, 110
are usable with one another and optionally, benefit may be found by
utilising the outer shell with its beneficial features with other
lockable receptacles, and/or by utilising the lockable receptacle
with its beneficial features with other outer shells or outer
sleeves.
[0211] Referring now to FIG. 2-1, there is shown a perspective view
of a lockable receptacle in the form of a blister strip 10 or inner
slide card 10 that comprises a main portion 12. The blister strip
10 of the illustrated embodiment is a thermoformed plastic sheet
(for example PVC). A main portion 12 of the blister strip 10 has at
least one receiving cavity `B` for holding an article. The at least
one receiving cavity `B` is formed as a protrusion of a first
(upper) surface 15 and as an indentation of a second (lower)
surface 27. In the illustrated arrangement of FIGS. 2-1 to 2-5, the
blister strip 10 has twenty-eight blisters or cavities `B`, each
for receiving an article (not shown). Optionally, the inner slide
card 10 or blister strip 10 may be lidded or sealed with a backing
sheet `S`, such as an aluminium foil sheet, paperboard layer,
polymeric film and/or other perforable or peelable material (see
FIG. 2-9). Whereas perforable films are often used in
pharmaceutical push-through packages, where a tablet is pushed out
of the blister `B` and this action breaks the backing film to allow
that tablet to exit the blister `B`, in other embodiments the
backing film may, for example, be peelable and therefore not
necessarily of the push-through type. The embodiments described
having punch-through backing sheets are for illustrative purposes
only and are not limiting.
[0212] In other envisaged embodiments, the inner slide card 10 or
blister strip 10 may be formed of other sheet material, for example
other plastics or paperboard. In other arrangements, the blister
strip 10 may have one or more blisters `B` integrally formed
therein, and may only optionally be formed by thermoforming.
Alternatively or additionally, the inner slide card 10 may comprise
two parts, a card type element (not shown) and a blister strip 10,
the blister strip 10 being attached to the card-type element such
that the two parts together form a unitary element that is capable
of accommodating one or more articles in individual cavities, and
that is capable of being withdrawn from and pushed by relative
sliding movement into an outer shell 700. The articles to be
accommodated by the blisters `B` of the inner slide card 10 may,
for example, be tablets, pills capsules or, for example, any other
form of medicament, healthcare item, personal item, drug, vitamin,
electrical component or other article. The inner slide card 10 or
blister strip 10 may be capable of holding one or more items or
articles. The terms `inner slide card 10` and `blister strip 10`
are used to refer to components that are placed inside the outer
shell 700 and to which the blisters or cavities `B` are attached,
or within which the blisters or cavities `B` are integrally formed.
The terms `inner slide card 10` and `blister strip 10` may be used
to refer to components formed of paperboard, plastics material, or
combinations of material, and such components may be formed from a
single piece of material or a composition of different
materials.
[0213] In the illustrations accompanying the description, the
blister strip 10 is shown with a series of empty blisters `B`. It
will be understood that when reference to a package `P` is made
herein, it may mean a package `P` containing an inner slide card 10
having, or not having, articles disposed and sealed within the
blister cavities `B`.
[0214] Turning now in more detail to the structure of the blister
strip 10 or inner slide card 10 shown in FIGS. 2-1 to 2-5, the
inner slide card 10 comprises a main portion 12, in which article
holding cavities `B` are formed. In the illustrated inner slide
card 10, twenty-four cavities `B` are formed. The cavities `B`
project from an upper surface 15 (also referred to as `first
surface`) of the main portion 12. The underside 27 (also referred
to as `second surface`) of the main portion 12 can have a backing
sheet attached thereto to retain and seal an article within each
cavity `B` once the blister strip 10 has been loaded with
articles.
[0215] The leading edge 21 of the slide card 10 is the edge that
first exits the outer shell 700 when the slide card 10 is withdrawn
from the outer shell 700 (see FIG. 2-1). A locking tail flap 14 is
formed at the opposite end of the blister strip 10 and is connected
by a hinge 17 (optionally formed as a creased or demarcated or
perforated or otherwise weakened fold line 17) to a trailing end of
the main portion 12 of the blister strip 10 or slide card 10 (see
FIGS. 2-2 through 2-5). Opposite to the hinge 17 is a free edge of
the locking tail flap 14. The free edge comprises a medial engaging
portion 22. Disposed on either side of the medial engaging portion
22 are wing portions 20a, 20b. The maximum width W14 of the locking
tail flap 14 proximate the medial engaging portion 22 is
approximately the same width as the maximum width W12 of the main
portion 12 of the blister strip 10 (see dimension lines W14 and W12
in FIG. 2-2). Preferably, but nevertheless optionally, the maximum
width W14 of the locking tail flap 14 proximate the medial engaging
portion 22 is substantially equal to or slightly less than the
internal width W700 of an outer shell 700 (see FIG. 2-12A). When
less than the internal width W700, the maximum width W14 is no more
than 2 mm (and optionally no more than 1 mm) less than the internal
width W700. This arrangement may be represented by the following
formula F: W14+d=W700
[0216] In the above formula, "W14" is the maximum width of the
locking tail 14, "W700" is the internal width of the outer shell
700, and "d" is the difference in dimension between the maximum
width W14 and the internal width W700 where "d" may be represented
by the following formula: 0.ltoreq.d.ltoreq.2 mm
[0217] Optionally, the blister strip 10 and locking tail flap 14
may comprise complementarily shaped tapered edge portions 24a, 24b
proximate to and terminating on the hinge connection 17. When the
locking tail flap 14 is folded relative to the main portion 12, the
tapered portions 24a of the locking tail flap 14 are moved closer
to the tapered portions 24b of the blister strip 10. As a result of
the tapered portions 24a, 24b, the folded blister strip 10 has a
narrower width edge defined by hinge connection 17 that becomes the
leading edge when the blister strip 10 is being loaded into an
outer shell 700. The co-operatively tapered shaped portions 24a,
24b thereby assist with the easy installation of the folded blister
strip 10 into an outer shell 700. As such, the locking tail flap 14
has a region (along hinge connection 17) where the width of the
locking tail flap 14 may be less than the maximum end-to-end width
W14 between the side edges 33 (see FIGS. 2-2 and 2-3) of the
locking tail flap 14. Optionally, the side edges 33 each includes
at least a straight portion. Alternatively or more optionally, the
maximum end-to-end width of the locking tail flap 14 is equal to,
or greater than, the maximum end-to-end width W12 of the main
portion 12 of the blister strip 10. This preferred arrangement may
be represented by the following formula G: W14.gtoreq.W12
[0218] In the above formula, "W14" is the maximum width of the
locking tail flap 14 and "W12" is the maximum width of the main
portion 12 of the blister strip 10. The arrangement represented by
the above formula F and/or formula G effectively contributes to
providing a good bracing effect between side walls 715, 725 of an
outer shell 700 (which will be described below in reference to
FIGS. 2-12A and 2-12B), which beneficially may limit the risk of,
or prevent, the locking tail flap 14 from being unfolded relative
to the main portion 12. Prior art outer sleeves can suffer from a
bowing effect, wherein the front wall 740/730/710 and bottom wall
720 can bow outwardly (as viewed from the exterior of the outer
shell 700). To achieve this, the side walls 725 and 715 must be
able to move towards one another. If the outer shell 700 can be
distorted in this manner, and to a sufficient degree, the internal
height of the outer shell 700 can be increased to provide
sufficient headroom such that the locking tail flap 14 can be
unfolded. Once the locking tail flap 14 is unfolded, the blister
strip 10 can be withdrawn from the outer shell 700. Squeezing the
side wall 725, 715 and forcing the blister strip 10 out of the
sleeve 700 in such a manner avoids the use of the release
mechanism, and effectively overcomes the child-resistant features.
This is disadvantageous. Beneficially, however, in the blister
strips of the present invention, the locking tail flap 14 is shaped
such that its maximum width W14 and optional straight side edges 33
provide a brace or strut between the side walls 725, 715 of the
outer shell 700 and prevent the outer shell 700 from being
distorted as described. A package of the present invention may
therefore retain its child-resistant features and provide an
important improvement that could safeguard against a child gaining
unauthorized access to medication.
[0219] Optionally, the free-edge 20a/22/20b of the locking tail
flap 14 may be shaped to enhance the locking engagement of the
locking tail flap 14 with the outer shell 700.
[0220] Optionally, one or more integral formations 18a, 18b, each
formed as a protrusion of the first surface 15 and as an
indentation of the second surface 27 are provided on the locking
tail flap 14. The one or more integral formations each have a
non-uniform height. The one or more integral formations, which may
also be referred to as false blisters 18a, 18b herein, are provided
on or integrally formed within the locking tail flap 14. The one or
more false blisters 18a, 18b are configured such that they can each
provide a degree of reinforcement or rigidity to the locking tail
flap 14 to help prevent bowing of the tail flap and at the same
time fit within the outer shell 700 when the locking tail flap 14
is disposed in its locking position.
[0221] In use, the locking tail flap 14 is folded about hinge
connection 17 toward the underside (backed) surface of the main
portion 12 of the blister strip 10 and away from the false blisters
16. This folded configuration results in the false blisters 18a,
18b projecting above the locking tail flap 14 and between the upper
composite wall 730/740/710 of the outer shell 700 and the locking
tail flap 14. This is best illustrated in FIGS. 2-9 and 2-10, which
shows the locked configuration of the package `P`. In alternative
embodiment, however, the locking tail flap 14 may be folded about
hinge connection 17 toward the false blisters 16 and toward the
non-backing side of the main portion 12 opposite to the backing
side thereof where the backing sheet or foil is placed. This folded
configuration would result in the false blisters 18a, 18b
projecting from the locking tail flap 14 toward the false blisters
16 and located between the locking tail flap 14 and the false
blisters 16. In such an embodiment, the false blisters 18a, 18b
tend to be brought into direct contact with the false blisters 16
as the locking tail flap 14 is folded, and thereby function as a
spacer or even added spring between the locking tail flap 14 and
the main portion 12. As a result, the blisters 18a, 18b, 16 prevent
the locking tail flap 14 from being folded 180 degrees or all the
way to the non-backing side of the main portion 12. Such an
arrangement would be useful to reduce the chance of unintentional
disengagement of the locking tail flap 14 from a recess `R` of the
outer shell 700--the recess `R` will be discussed in more details
later.
[0222] In the illustrated embodiment, a series of further optional
false blisters, ribs, or other formations 16 are provided on the
main portion 12 of the blister strip 10.
[0223] The false blisters 18a, 18b, 16 are optionally press-formed
or moulded out of the locking tail flap 14 and main portion 12.
Optionally, the false blisters 18a, 18b, 16 may be integrally
formed with the locking tail flap 14 or affixed thereto. Where the
false blisters 18a, 18b are integrally moulded out of the locking
tail flap 14 the underside 27 of the locking tail flap 14 may have
indentations corresponding to the impression of the false blisters
18a, 18b.
[0224] The false blisters 18a may be disposed in series of one or
more, five for example, substantially parallel false blisters 18a.
These false blisters 18a may provide a degree of rigidity to the
locking tail flap 14, and may assist in the appropriate or desired
bending or flexing of the locking tail flap 14 when the locking
tail flap 14 is engaged with the outer shell 700, and/or deflected
to cause unlocking of the locking tail flap 14 from the outer shell
700. Optionally, one or more obliquely angled false blisters 18b
may be provided on the wing portions 20a, 20b of the locking tail
flap 14 and beneficially provide rigidity to the corner wing
portions 20a, 20b which may improve the strength of the brace
provided by the "full-width" locking tail flap 14. Optionally, the
obliquely angled false blisters 18b may be directed towards the
corners of the locking tail flap and may reinforce, strengthen or
otherwise enhance the rigidity of the corners of the locking tail
flap 14. In the illustrated configuration, two obliquely angled
false blisters 18b are provided on the locking tail flap 14, each
directed from proximate the hinge connection 17 and towards each
corner of the locking tail flap 14. At least one false blister is
optionally pressed or moulded out of the locking tail flap 14. The
number, size, and configuration of the false blisters 18a, 18b
provided on the locking tail flap 14 may be varied from that
illustrated. It should be readily understood that the closer the
false blisters 18a, 18b on the locking tail flap 14 are to the
false blisters 16, the greater the structural strength of the
locking tail flap 14. The greater the structural strength of the
locking tail flap 14, the more reliable the engagement of the
locking tail flap 14 with the outer shell 700. The false blisters
18a, 18b may be extended all the way to the free/engaging edge of
the locking tail flap; however, the arrangement wherein the false
blisters 18a, 18b stop in short of the engaging edge of the locking
tail flap and thereby a flat, no blister area is left between the
engaging edge and the false blisters may interact better with the
outer shell for the purpose of providing reliable engagement of the
locking tail flap and the outer shell.
[0225] In the present arrangement, the blister strip 10 is arranged
such that the locking tail flap 14 folds about hinge 17 and towards
the underside 27 of the main portion 12 of the blister strip 10.
This folded configuration is shown in FIGS. 2-4 and 2-5. As a
result of the locking tail flap 14 being folded relative to the
main portion 12 of the blister strip 10 in this way (rather than
the upper-side 15 of the locking tail flap 14 being folded towards
the upper side 15 of the main portion 12 of the blister strip 10),
the surface of the locking tail flap 14 that is closest to the
internal locking aperture 739/749 (described below) of the outer
shell or sleeve 700, is the upper-side surface 15, from which the
false blisters or reinforcing ribs 18a, 18b project upwardly. The
locked position of the blister strip 10 within the outer shell 700
is shown in FIG. 2-10, wherein the location of the false blisters
or reinforcing ribs 18a, 18b is shown.
[0226] In FIG. 2-7, there is shown a perspective view of an
optional and exemplary outer shell 700 capable of receiving the
blister strip 10 for forming a package `P` (see FIG. 2-1). The
outer shell 700 may be formed from a variety of materials, for
example, plastics material, paperboard material and/or combinations
of these and other materials.
[0227] Optionally, and as illustrated, the outer shell 700 may be
formed from foldable sheet material, for example paperboard. In
FIG. 2-6, an exemplary embodiment of a blank 709 is illustrated.
The blank 709 is for forming an exemplary outer shell 700 for use
with an exemplary blister strip 10.
[0228] As illustrated, the outer shell (also referred to as a
`sleeve`) 700 forms a generally tubular structure (see FIGS. 2-1
and 2-7) with a generally rectangular cross section. Blank 709 has
a series of foldably attached panels including: a front panel 710,
first side panel 715, back panel 720, second side panel 725, first
auxiliary panel 730, and second auxiliary panel 740.
[0229] Front panel 710 may include a release button in the form of
an area denoted by a cut line 718 which may be generally U-shaped.
The release button may have score lines, ribs, crease lines or
other formations 719 to provide stiffness to the release button. A
cut-away portion 716 may be provided which may coincide with other
cut-away portions 726, 736 in the finished sleeve 700.
[0230] Back panel 720 at a "closed" end may be hingedly attached to
a first or outer end closure flap 722. Back panel 720 at its
opposite "open" end may be provided with an inward facing flap 724
that may be useful for retaining contents within the sleeve (for
example, by its natural resilience causing the folded inward facing
flap 724 to be urged towards its unfolded position, in which it
releasably closes the "open" end of the outer shell 700). A cutaway
726 may be provided, which may coincide with other cutaways 716,
736 in the finished sleeve 700.
[0231] The first auxiliary panel 730, which becomes an innermost
ply of a composite front wall 710/740/730, comprises an aperture
739 shaped to engage at least part of the locking tail flap 14 of
the blister strip 10. Release tongue 738 may extend into the
aperture 739 to act along with release button 718 and a release
tongue 748 in releasing the engaged part of the locking tail flap
14. At the other end of the first auxiliary panel 730 an inward
facing flap 734 may be provided. The inward facing flap 734 may be
useful for retaining contents within the sleeve 700, optionally by
engagement of the locking tail flap 14 against an edge of that
inward facing flap 734. A cutaway 736 may be provided, which may
coincide with other cutaways 716, 726 in the finished sleeve
700.
[0232] The second auxiliary panel 740, which becomes an
intermediate-ply of the composite front wall 710/740/730, comprises
an aperture 749 shaped in correspondence with, and positioned in
alignment with, aperture 739. The aperture 749 is also arranged to
engage at least part of the locking tail flap 14 of the blister
strip 10. Release tongue 748 may extend into the aperture 749 to
act along with release button 718 and release tongue 738 in
releasing the engaged part of the locking tail flap 14. For example
the release button 718, release tongue 738, and release tongue 748
may all deflect inward when a user applies inward pressure to the
release button 718. Second auxiliary panel 740 at the "closed" end
may be hingedly attached to a second or inner end closure flap 742.
At the opposite "open" end, cutaway 746 may be provided which may
coincide with other cutaways in the finished sleeve 700. The free
side edge 747 of the second auxiliary panel 740 may be shaped such
that the second auxiliary panel 740 is not of a uniform width and
is partially cut away.
[0233] The blank shown in FIG. 2-6 may be folded with the second
auxiliary panel 740 folded backwards and behind the first auxiliary
panel 730. The auxiliary panels 730, 740 may be attached together,
for example by glue or hot melt glue. The release tongues 738, 748
generally overlap in this configuration.
[0234] The inward facing flaps 724, 734 may now be folded inwardly
upon back panel 720 and first auxiliary panel 730, respectively.
These flaps 724, 734 may be held in place by the creased fold,
and/or may be glued against their respective panels, or heat sealed
thereto. Optionally inward facing flap 734 is adhered to the first
auxiliary panel 730 and inward facing flap 724 is not affixed to
the back panel 720.
[0235] The part-formed structure may then be further folded, with
the auxiliary panels 730, 740 folded forward and over back panel
720. This results in a configuration where the back panel 720,
second side panel 725, and auxiliary panels 730, 740 make up three
walls of a tubular structure. (It should be noted that the use of
tear resistant materials, and/or more than one layer, helps to
improve the tamper- and theft-resistance of the package.) To finish
assembling the sleeve 700, the inner closure flap 742 is first
folded downward. The outer closure flap 722 may then be folded
upward into facing contact with the inner closure flap 742. The
facing surfaces of the outer closure flap 722 and inner closure
flap 742 are Optionally both heat seal coated, so that a very
strong seal may be created and a composite end closure wall formed
at the "closed" end of the outer shell 700.
[0236] After the front panel 710 has been folded up and over
secondary auxiliary panel 740, these two panels 710, 740 may be
affixed together, for example by heat sealing, to form the finished
sleeve 700 as shown in FIG. 2-7.
[0237] Cutaway 747 in second auxiliary panel 740 allows a portion
of the inner surface of front panel 710 (a surface optionally
having a heat seal coating) to seal to a portion of the surface of
the first auxiliary panel 730 (a surface that may not have the heat
seal coating).
[0238] As the front panel 710 is secured to both auxiliary panels
730, 740, a composite front wall is formed which has, at least in
parts, three plies of material. This creates a stiff composite
front wall which may help prevent bowing and enables a recess `R`
to be formed (see FIG. 2-10).
[0239] The outer shell 700 is configured to receive the blister
strip 10 or another suitable inner slide card 10 or blister card
10. As such the composite top wall 710/740/730 and bottom wall 720
of the outer shell 700 are spaced apart and are shaped and
dimensioned to create a cavity or inner housing, into which the
blister strip 10 can be placed. The blister strip 10 is optionally
slidably and reasonably tightly placed into the housing provided by
the outer shell 700 and in such a manner that the co-operative
mechanical lock between the locking tail flap 14 and engaging
apertures 739/749 is able to operate.
[0240] In FIG. 2-10, an illustration is provided of a side-view of
a cut-away portion of the outer shell 700. This shows how the
locking tail flap 14 of the folded blister strip 10 fits securely
within the housing provided by the outer shell 700 and how at least
part of an engaging portion (also referred to as `engaging edge`)
22 of the locking tail flap 14 is disposed within a recess `R`
formed within the three-plies of material of the composite front
wall 710/740/730 by the apertures 749 and 739 respectively. The
locking tail flap 14 has a degree of natural resilience and after
being folded about hinge 17, is biased to return to its unfolded
state. This degree of resilience causes at least part of the
engaging portion (leading edge) 22 of the locking tail flap 14 to
position itself within the recess `R` and optionally abut edges of
the apertures 739 and/or 749 respectively.
[0241] The internal height of the outer shell 700 between the
bottom wall and the composite front wall 710/740/730 is variable
across the outer shell 700 in the region of the locking apertures
749, 739. To illustrate this, FIG. 2-8 shows an illustration of the
outer shell 700 with a ghost outline of the general location of the
locking tail flap 14 in its locked state. Two longitudinal
reference lines A-A and B-B are also depicted. Along the line A-A,
the wing portion 20a of the locking tail flap 14 is disposed
beneath the lowermost panel--the first auxiliary panel 730 of the
composite front wall 710/740/730. This is depicted in FIG. 2-9,
which shows a partial cut-away side view of the outer shell 700 and
folded blister strip 10 taken generally along the line A-A. The
internal height between the bottom wall 720 and first auxiliary
panel 730 is indicated as dimension `X` in FIG. 2-9. However, along
the line B-B, the engaging portion 22 of the locking tail flap 14
is disposed within the recess `R` and is disposed immediately
beneath the front panel 710 of the composite front wall
710/740/730. This is depicted in FIG. 2-10, which shows a partial
cut-away side view of the outer shell 700 and folded blister strip
10 taken general along the line B-B. The internal height between
the bottom wall 720 and front panel 710 is indicated as dimension
`Y` in FIG. 2-10.
[0242] It will be understood, therefore, that the locking tail flap
14 is not flat or planar in its locked state. The addition of the
wing portions 20a, 20b and larger structured locking tail flap 14
give rise to a stronger locking mechanism that may provide a
greater degree of child resistance.
[0243] Each of the false blisters 18a, 18b provides a degree of
rigidity to the locking tail flap 14 and at the same time allows
for the unfettered engagement of the locking tail flap 14 and outer
shell 700. To facilitate this it is preferred, but is nevertheless
optional, that the false blisters 18a, 18b are tapered or
wedge-shaped or angled towards the furthermost end corners of
locking tail flap 14. The angle of false blisters 18b with respect
to the fold line 17 is Optionally approximately 45 degrees.
[0244] Second and third embodiments of blister strips 10 of the
second invention are illustrated in FIGS. 2-11 to 2-13. In the
second and third embodiments like reference numerals have been used
to denote like features, albeit with the addition of `100` and
`200` to distinguish those features as belonging to the second and
third embodiments. For conciseness of description, only the
differences between the embodiments of FIGS. 2-11 to 2-13 and those
of FIGS. 2-1 to 2-10 will be described in greater detail.
[0245] Referring to FIG. 2-11, the free edge 120a/122/120b of the
locking tail flap 114 is shaped such that the medial engaging
portion 122 projects further than the wing portions 120a, 120b. The
stepped formation of the free edge creates a more pronounced
engaging portion 122, which may be located within the recess `R` of
the outer shell 700 and allows for the wing portions 120a, 120b to
distort to a greater degree for fitting beneath the first auxiliary
panel 710. In FIG. 2-12A, the structure of the outer shell 700,
slightly in front of the recess `R` is shown by a cut-away view
from the outer shell 700. In this figure the internal width W700
between the side walls 725 and 715 is also illustrated. In FIG.
2-12B, a similar view of the outer shell 700 is shown.
Additionally, in FIG. 2-12B, the locking tail flap 114 is shown in
its locked position. It can be seen in FIG. 2-12B that the engaging
portion 122 of the locking tail flap 114 is disposed within the
recess `R`. The edge of the engaging portion 122 cannot be seen as
it abuts edges of the first and second auxiliary panels 730, 740
(which edges are defined by the apertures 739, 749). The location
of the wing portions 120a, 120b can also be seen. The wing portions
120a, 120b are disposed below the first auxiliary panel 730. As
such, the locking tail flap 114 is securely locked and located and
retained within the outer shell 700. The width W114 of the locking
tail flap 114 between its side edges is sufficiently sized such
that the locking tail flap can form a strut or brace between the
side walls 725, 715 of the outer shell 700 for at least mitigating
against, if not preventing, the locking tail flap 114 from
unfolding relative to the main portion 112 of the blister strip
110. This is because there is insufficient room and the outer shell
700 cannot be distorted (by bowing the front wall 710/740/730 and
bottom wall 720 away from one another) to create the headroom
required.
[0246] In the third embodiment of FIG. 2-13, the free edge
220a/222/220b of the locking tail flap 214 comprises more prominent
recesses 223 that optionally may be trapezoidal in shape, between
the wing portions 220a, 220b and the medial engaging portion 222.
The recesses 223 may serve to encourage the locking tail flap 214
to distort to a greater extent in the locked position and the
tension thereby created may further tighten and strengthen the
locking engagement between the locking tail flap 214 and the outer
shell 700.
[0247] It can be appreciated that various changes may be made
within the scope of the present invention. F or example, the size
and shape of the outer shell, blister strip or inner slide card,
the panels for forming the paperboard outer sleeves and the full
width locking tail flaps may be adjusted to accommodate differing
size and/or shape requirements. The size, shape, number and
configuration of the false blisters formed on the locking tail flap
14 may be altered from that illustrated.
[0248] Whereas the illustrated embodiment comprises blisters `B`
integrally formed within the main body panel 12, it is envisaged
that in other embodiments the article receiving blister `B` may be
replaced with an article receiving area to which one or more
articles is affixed, for example by means of adhesive and/or
wrapping film.
[0249] For example, the recesses 223 may be differently shaped and
positioned; the tapered edges 24a, 24b; 124a, 124b; 224a, 224b may
be omitted or, if present, differently shaped.
[0250] It will be recognized that the locking tail flaps 14, 114,
214 each may have no tapered edge portions 24a, 124a, 224a but have
a uniform width all the way along its length, according to the
present invention. Such an arrangement may increase the structural
strength of the respective locking tail flap. Those slide cards or
blister strips may be provided with tapered edge portions 28 (see
FIG. 2-2) at the leading end of the blister strip 10 and may
Optionally be loaded into the associated outer shell through the
rear end of the outer shell before the inner and outer end closure
flaps at that end are closed.
[0251] Referring now to FIGS. 3-1 through 3-11B, the third
invention is described referring to some embodiments illustrated in
those figures.
[0252] The present invention provides a restricted access package
`P` comprising a lockable receptacle (for example, a blister strip,
an inner slide card, a slidable tray or box, etc.) 10 and an outer
shell 700. The lockable receptacle 10 and outer shell 700 have
co-operative features which can lock the lockable receptacle 10
within the outer shell 700 to thereby allow only restricted access
to the receptacle 700 and its contents. Additionally, the
receptacle 10 and outer shell 700 of the present invention have
co-operative features to enable the receptacle 10 to be unlocked
and at least partially withdrawn or slid out from the outer shell
700, so that a user may access the blisters "B" and articles held
therein. In a locked configuration of the package `P`, the
receptacle 10 is stowed within the outer shell 700 and locked in
place by a mechanical complementary locking mechanism such that the
articles held in the cavity or cavities "B" cannot be accessed.
Operation of a release mechanism is required in order to unlock the
lockable receptacle 10 from the outer shell 700 and to allow its
withdrawal from the outer shell 700.
[0253] Operation of the release mechanism requires knowledge of the
operation of the locking mechanism and some dexterity to operate
the unlocking features and, at the same time, withdraw the lockable
receptacle 10. In this way, access to the lockable receptacle 10
may be restricted to only those users of sufficient knowledge and
dexterity.
[0254] As a further optional aspect of the third invention, it is
envisaged that in certain embodiments, the lockable receptacle 10
and outer shell 700 may have co-operative features to prevent,
restrict or otherwise mitigate against the lockable receptacle 10
being completely removed from the outer shell 700. An unlocked
configuration is illustrated in FIG. 3-1, wherein the blister strip
10 is disengaged and withdrawn, albeit only to a permitted and
limited extent, from the outer shell 700.
[0255] It will be understood upon reading the foregoing that the
present invention provides an outer shell 700 with beneficial
features and a lockable receptacle 10, 110 with beneficial
features. The outer shell 700 and lockable inner receptacle 10, 110
are usable with one another and optionally, benefit may be found by
utilising the lockable receptacle with its beneficial features with
other outer shells or outer sleeves.
[0256] Referring now to FIG. 3-1, there is shown a perspective view
of a lockable receptacle 10 in the form of a blister strip or inner
slide card 10 that comprises a main strip 12. The blister strip 10
of the illustrated embodiment is a thermoformed plastic sheet (for
example PVC). A main portion 12 of the blister strip 10 has at
least one receiving cavity "B" for holding an article. The at least
one receiving cavity "B" is formed as a protrusion of a first
(upper) surface 15 and as an indentation of a second (lower)
surface 27. In the illustrated arrangement of FIGS. 3-1 to 3-5, the
blister strip 10 has twenty-eight blisters or cavities "B", each
for receiving an article (not shown). Optionally, the inner slide
card or blister strip 10 may be lidded or sealed with a backing
sheet `S` such as; an aluminium foil sheet, paperboard layer,
polymeric film and/or other perforable or peelable film (see FIG.
3-9). Whereas perforable films are often used in pharmaceutical
push-through-packages where a tablet is pushed out of the blister
"B" and this action breaks the backing film to allow that tablet to
exit the blister "B", in other embodiments, the backing film "S"
may, for example, be peelable and therefore not necessarily of the
push-though type. The embodiments described having punch-through
backing sheets "S" are for illustrative purposes only and are not
limiting.
[0257] In other envisaged embodiments, the inner slide card 10 or
blister strip 10 may be formed of other suitable formable sheet
material, for example other plastics or paperboard. In other
arrangements, the blister strip 10 may have one or more blisters
`B` integrally formed therein, and may only optionally be formed by
thermoforming. Alternatively or additionally, the inner slide card
10 may comprise two parts, a card type element (not shown) and a
blister strip, the blister strip being attached to the card-type
element such that the two parts together form a unitary element
that is capable of accommodating one or more articles in individual
cavities and that is capable of being withdrawn out of and pushed
by relative sliding movement into an outer shell 700. The articles
to be accommodated by the blisters `B` of the inner slide card 10
may, for example, be tablets, pills capsules or for example any
other form of medicament, healthcare item, personal item, drug,
vitamin, electrical component or other article. The inner slide
card 10 or blister strip 10 may be capable of holding one or more
items or articles. The terms "inner slide card" and "blister strip"
are used to refer to components that are placed inside the outer
shell 700 and to which the blisters or cavities `B` are attached or
within which the blisters or cavities `B` are integrally formed.
The terms "inner slide card" and "blister strip" may be used to
refer to components formed of paperboard, plastics material, or
combinations of materials, and such components may be formed from a
single piece of material or a composition of different
materials.
[0258] In the illustrations accompanying the description, the
blister strip 10 is shown with a series of empty blisters `B`. It
will be understood that when reference to a package `P` is made
herein, it may mean a package `P` containing an inner slide card 10
having or not having articles disposed and sealed within the
blister cavities `B`.
[0259] Turning now in more detail to the structure of the blister
strip 10 or inner slide card 10 shown in FIGS. 3-1 to 3-5, the
inner slide card 10 comprises a main strip 12, in which article
holding cavities `B` are formed. In the illustrated inner slide
card, twenty-four cavities `B` are formed. The cavities `B` project
from an upper surface 15 (also referred to as "first surface") of
the main strip 12. The underside 27 (also referred to as "second
surface") of the main strip 12 can have a backing sheet attached
thereto to retain and seal an article within each cavity `B` once
the blister strip 10 has been loaded with articles.
[0260] The leading edge 21 of the slide card 10 is the edge that
first exits the outer shell 700 when the slide card 10 is withdrawn
from the outer shell 700 (see FIG. 3-1). A locking tail flap 14 is
formed at the opposite end of the blister strip 10 and is connected
by a hinge 17 (optionally formed as a creased or demarcated or
otherwise weakened fold line 17) to a trailing end of the main
strip 12 of the blister strip or slide card 10 (see FIGS. 3-2-3-5).
One or more integral formations 18a, 18b, each formed as a
protrusion of the first surface 15 and as an indentation of the
second surface 27 are provided on the locking tail flap 14. The one
or more integral formations 18a, 18b each have a non-uniform
height. The one or more integral formations 18a, 18b, which may
also be referred to herein as false blisters 18a, 18b, are provided
on or integrally formed within the locking tail flap 14. The one or
more false blisters 18a, 18b are configured such that they can each
provide a degree of reinforcement or rigidity to the locking tail
flap 14 to enhance its stiffness and at the same time fit within
the outer shell 700 when the locking tail flap 14 is disposed in
its locking position. A first portion 34 of each false blister
(formation) 18a, 18b comprises a maximum height of the false
blister 18a, 18b and a second portion 32 of each false blister
(formation) 18a, 18b comprises a minimum height of the false
blister 18a, 18b. The first portion 34 comprising the maximum
height is disposed further from an engaging portion 22 of the
locking tail flap 14 than the second portion 32 comprising the
minimum height is. The position of the maximum height of the
wedge-shaped false blister 18a, 18b is not necessarily at its end.
This is because the false blisters 18a, 18b are optionally formed
by moulding or thermoforming, and are rounded at their vertices and
extremities.
[0261] In use, the locking tail flap 14 is folded, about hinge
connection 17 towards the underside (backed) surface of the main
portion 12 of the blister strip 10, and away from the blisters `B`.
This folded configuration results in the false blisters 18a, 18b
projecting above the locking tail flap 14 and between the composite
front wall 730/740/710 of the outer shell 700 and the locking tail
flap 14. This is best illustrated in FIG. 3-10, which shows the
locked configuration of the package `P`.
[0262] In the illustrated embodiment, a series of further optional
false blisters, ribs, or other formations 16 are provided on the
main portion 12 of the blister strip 10.
[0263] The false blisters 18a, 18b, 16 are optionally press-formed
or moulded out of the locking tail flap 14. Optionally, the false
blisters 18a, 18b, 16 may be integrally formed with the locking
tail flap 14 or affixed thereto. Where the false blisters 18a, 18b
are integrally moulded out of the locking tail flap 14, the
underside 27 of the locking tail flap 14 may have indentations
corresponding to the impression of the false blisters 18a, 18b.
[0264] The false blisters 18a may be disposed in a series of one or
more, and optionally five, substantially parallel false blisters
18a. These false blisters 18a may provide a degree of rigidity to
the locking tail flap 14 and may assist in the appropriate or
desired bending or flexing of the locking tail flap 14 when the
locking tail flap 14 is engaged with the outer shell 700 and/or
deflected to cause unlocking of the locking tail flap 14 from the
outer shell 700. Optionally one or more obliquely angled false
blisters 18b may be provided on the locking tail flap 14.
Optionally the obliquely angled false blisters 18b may be directed
towards the corners of the locking tail flap and optionally may
reinforce, strengthen or otherwise enhance the rigidity of the
corners of the locking tail flap 14. In the illustrated
configuration, two obliquely angled false blisters 18b are provided
on the locking tail flap 14, each directed from proximate the hinge
connection 17 and towards a corner of the locking tail flap 14. At
least one false blister 18a, 18b is optionally pressed or moulded
out of the locking tail flap 14. The number, size, and
configuration of the false blisters 18a, 18b provided on the
locking tail flap 14 may be varied from that illustrated.
[0265] In the present arrangement, the blister strip 10 is arranged
such that the locking tail flap 14 folds about hinge 17 and towards
the underside 27 of the main portion 12 of the blister strip 10.
This folded configuration is shown in FIG. 3-4. As a result of the
locking tail flap 14 being folded relative to the main portion 12
of the blister strip 10 in this way (rather than the upper-side 15
of the locking tail flap 14 being folded towards the upper side 15
of the main portion 12 of the blister strip 10), the surface of the
locking tail flap 14 that is closest to the internal locking
aperture 739/749 (described below) of the outer shell or sleeve
700, is the upper-side surface 15 from which the false blisters or
reinforcing ribs 18a, 18b project upwardly. The locked position of
the blister strip 10 within the outer shell 700 is shown in FIG.
3-10, wherein the location of the false blisters or reinforcing
ribs 18a, 18b is shown.
[0266] In FIG. 3-7 there is shown a perspective view of an optional
and exemplary outer shell 700 capable of receiving the blister
strip 10 for forming a package `P` (see FIG. 3-1). The outer shell
700 may be formed from a variety of materials, for example,
plastics material, paperboard material and/or combinations of these
and other materials.
[0267] Optionally, and as illustrated, the outer shell 700 may be
formed from foldable sheet material, for example paperboard. In
FIG. 3-6 an exemplary embodiment of a blank 709 is illustrated. The
blank 709 is for forming an exemplary outer shell 700 for use with
an exemplary blister strip 10.
[0268] As illustrated, the outer shell (also referred to as a
sleeve) 700 forms a generally tubular structure (see FIGS. 3-1 and
3-7) with a generally rectangular cross section. Blank 709 has a
series of foldably attached panels including: a front panel 710,
first side panel 715, back panel 720, second side panel 725, first
auxiliary panel 730, and second auxiliary panel 740.
[0269] Front panel 710 may include a release button in the form of
an area denoted by a cutline 718 which be generally U-shaped. The
release button may have score lines, ribs, crease lines or other
formations 719 to provide stiffness to the release button. A
cut-away portion 716 may be provided which may coincide with other
cut-away portions 726, 736 in the finished sleeve 700.
[0270] Back panel 720 at a "closed" end may be hingedly attached to
a first or outer end closure flap 722. Back panel 720 at its
opposite "open" end may be provided with an inward facing flap 724
that may be useful for retaining contents within the sleeve (for
example, by its natural resilience causing the folded inward facing
flap 724 to be urged towards its unfolded position in which it
releasably closes the "open" end of the outer shell 700). A cutaway
726 may be provided which may coincide with other cutaways 716, 736
in the finished sleeve 700.
[0271] The first auxiliary panel 730, (which becomes an inner most
ply of a composite front wall 710/740/730), comprises an aperture
739 shaped to form a recess "R" and to engage an engaging portion
of the locking tail flap 14. Release tongue 738 may extend into the
aperture 739 to act, along with release button 718 and a release
tongue 748, in releasing the engaged part of the locking tail flap
14. At the other end of the first auxiliary panel 730 an inward
facing flap 734 may be provided. The inward facing flap 734 may be
useful for retaining contents within the sleeve 700, optionally by
engagement of the locking tail flap 14 against an edge of that
inward facing flap 734. A cutaway 736 may be provided which may
coincide with other cutaways 716, 726 in the finished sleeve
700.
[0272] The second auxiliary panel 740, which becomes an
intermediate-ply of the composite front wall 710/740/730, comprises
an aperture 749 shaped in correspondence with and positioned in
alignment with aperture 739. The aperture 749 is also arranged to
form a recess "R" and to engage an engaging portion of the locking
tail flap 14 of the blister strip 10. Release tongue 748 may extend
into the aperture 749 to act along with release button 718 and
release tongue 738 in releasing the engaged part of the locking
tail flap 14. For example, the release button 718, release tongue
738, and release tongue 748 may all deflect inward when a user
applies inward pressure to the release button 718. Second auxiliary
panel 740 at the "closed" end may be hingedly attached to a second
or inner end closure flap 742. At the opposite "open" end, cutaway
746 may be provided which may coincide with other cutaways in the
finished sleeve 700. The free side edge 747 of the second auxiliary
panel 740 may be shaped such that the second auxiliary panel 740 is
not of a uniform width and is partially cut away.
[0273] The blank shown in FIG. 3-6 may be folded and assembled into
an outer shell 700 as follows: the second auxiliary panel 740 may
be folded backwards and behind the first auxiliary panel 730. The
auxiliary panels 730, 740 may be attached together, for example by
glue or hot melt glue. The release tongues 738, 748 generally
overlap in this configuration.
[0274] The inward facing flaps 724, 734 may now be folded inward
upon back panel 720 and first auxiliary panel 730 respectively.
These flaps 724, 734 may be held in place by the creased fold,
and/or may be glued against their respective panels, or heat sealed
thereto. Preferably inward facing flap 734 is adhered to the first
auxiliary panel 730 and inward facing flap 724 is not affixed to
the back panel 720.
[0275] The part formed structure then may be further folded, with
the auxiliary panels 730, 740 folded forward and over back panel
720. This results in a configuration where the back panel 720,
second side panel 725, and auxiliary panels 730, 740 make up three
walls of a tubular structure. (It should be noted that the use of
tear resistant materials, and/or more than one layer, help to
improve the tamper- and theft-resistance of the package.) To finish
assembling the sleeve 700, the inner closure flap 742 is first
folded downward. The outer closure flap 722 may then be folded
upward into facing contact with the inner closure flap 742. The
facing surfaces of the outer closure flap 722 and inner closure
flap 742 are optionally both heat seal coated, so that a very
strong seal may be created and a composite end closure wall formed
at the "closed" end of the outer shell 700.
[0276] After the front panel 710 has been folded up and over
secondary auxiliary panel 740, these two panels 710, 740 may be
affixed together, for example by heat sealing, to form the finished
sleeve 700 as shown in FIG. 3-7.
[0277] Cutaway 747 in second auxiliary panel 740 allows a portion
of the inner surface of front panel 710 (a surface optionally
having a heat seal coating) to seal to a portion of the surface of
the first auxiliary panel 730 (a surface that may not have the heat
seal coating).
[0278] As the front panel 710 is secured to both auxiliary panels
730, 740, a composite front wall is formed which has, at least in
parts, three plies of material. This creates a stiff composite
front wall which may help prevent bowing and enables a recess `R`
to be formed (see FIG. 3-10).
[0279] The outer shell 700 is configured to receive the blister
strip 10 or another suitable inner slide card or blister card. As
such, the composite top wall 710/740/730 and bottom wall 720 of the
outer shell 700 are spaced apart and are shaped and dimensioned to
create a cavity or inner housing, into which the blister strip 10
can be placed. The blister strip 10 is preferably slideably and
reasonably tightly placed into the housing provided by the outer
shell 700 and in such a manner that the co-operative mechanical
lock, between the locking tail flap 14 and engaging apertures
739/749 is able to operate.
[0280] In FIG. 3-10 an illustration is provided of a cut-away
portion of the outer-shell 700. This shows how the folded blister
strip 10 fits securely within the housing provided by the outer
shell 700, and how at least part of an engaging portion (also
referred to as engaging edge) 22 of the locking tail flap 14 is
disposed within a recess "R" formed within the three-plies of
material making up the composite front wall 710/740/730 by the
apertures 749 and 739 respectively. The locking tail flap 14 has a
degree of natural resilience and after being folded about hinge 17,
it is biased to return to its unfolded state. This degree of
resilience causes at least part of the engaging portion (leading
edge) 22 of the locking tail flap 14 to position itself within the
recess `R` and optionally abut edges of the apertures 739 and/or
749 respectively. To facilitate proper location of the engaging
portion of the locking tail flap 14 within the recess `R`, for
secure locking engagement of the blister card 10 within the outer
sleeve 700, the false blisters 18a, 18b formed on the upper-side 15
of the locking tail flap 14 are shaped such that they are of a
non-uniform height (see FIG. 3-8B). The angle .alpha. of the taper
of the generally wedge-shaped false blister 18a, 18b may be defined
as the angle between the upper surface 30 of the false blister 18a,
18b and the backing film `S` on the underside of the locking tail
flap 14. This angle .alpha. may optionally be between about
5.degree. and about 20.degree. and preferably about 15.degree. (see
FIGS. 3-9 and 3-10).
[0281] The angle .alpha. of the taper of the generally wedge-shaped
false blister 18a, 18b is optionally formed generally or
substantially similarly to the angle adopted by the locking tail
flap 14 in its locked position (see FIG. 3-10). In this way, the
top face or upper surface 30 (see FIGS. 3-8B and 3-10) of the false
blister 18a may be generally aligned with or generally parallel to
the composite front wall 710/740/730 of the outer shell 700 (see
FIG. 3-10).
[0282] The false blisters 18a, 18b are preferably, but nevertheless
optionally formed for example by thermoforming, or moulding (for
example by press-moulding or blow-moulding), and as such have
rounded or radiused corners (as can be seen for example in FIGS.
3-3, 3-5 and 3-8B). The length `L` of the false blisters 18a, 18b
may be between about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm. The length `L` may be
defined as the length of a base 38 of the false blister 18a, 18b
between the tapered tip and the opposite end (see FIGS. 3-8B and
3-9). The obliquely angled false blisters 18b may be longer than
the other false blisters 18a.
[0283] In order for each false blister 18a, 18b to provide a degree
of rigidity to the locking tail flap 14 and, at the same time,
allow for the unfettered engagement of the locking tail flap 14 and
outer shell 700, it is preferred that a second portion 32 of the
false blister 18a having the minimum height of the false blister
18a, 18b is disposed closest to the engaging portion 22 of the
locking tail flap 14, compared to a first portion 34 of the false
blister 18a, 18b which has the maximum height (see FIG. 3-8B). As
such the false blister 18a, 18b is tapered away from the hinge
connection 17 and is higher closer to the hinge connection 17 and
lower further from the hinge connection 17.
[0284] An additional benefit of forming the false blister 18a, 18b
such that it does not have a uniform height, and/or optionally a
substantially square or rectangular form, is that the material from
which the tapered false blister is formed may be thicker in parts.
This is because the material will not have been stretched as much
as it otherwise would have been in order to form a rectangular or
square false blister having a uniform height equal to the maximum
height `d` of the tapered blister.
[0285] Further beneficially, the tapered, wedge-shaped and
generally triangular cross-sectional shape of the false blisters
18a, 18b that are formed on the upper-side of the locking tail flap
14 may be stronger than a false blister having a square or
rectangular-shaped cross-section. The false blisters 18a, 18b do
not contain articles and because they are empty they may be
vulnerable to being depressed or squashed. A square shaped or
rectangular false blister 16 may be more easily squashed or
depressed compared to a wedge-shaped false blister 18a, 18b. As
such, in other envisaged embodiments, the false blisters 16 on the
main portion 12 of the blister strip 10 may also be wedge-shaped or
tapered. In such an arrangement, it is envisaged that the false
blisters 16 would have their highest part closest to the hinge
connection 17.
[0286] It can be appreciated that various changes may be made
within the scope of the present invention, for example, the size
and shape of the outer shell, blister strip or inner slide card,
the panels for forming the paperboard outer sleeves and the
structure of the false blisters may be adjusted to accommodate
differing size and/or shape requirements. The size, shape, number
and configuration of the false blisters formed on the locking tail
flap 14 may be altered from that illustrated.
[0287] For example, the obliquely angled false blisters 18b may be
omitted in embodiments where the locking tail flap 14 has a
different shape. A second embodiment of the third invention is
shown in FIG. 3-11A, wherein like reference numerals have been used
to denote like features, albeit with the addition of `100` to
distinguish those features as being part of the second embodiment
of the third invention. In FIG. 3-11A it can be seen that the
locking tail flap 114 is slightly trapezoidal and the end most
false blisters 118b in a linear series of parallel blisters 118a,
118b are not obliquely angled, but are shorter in length than the
other blisters 118a.
[0288] In other envisaged embodiments, the false blisters formed on
the locking tail flap may be of similar or different lengths. All
the false blisters formed on the locking tail flap may be arranged
in parallel alignment. In other arrangements, two or more of the
false blisters formed on the locking tail flap may be in parallel
alignment with each other and/or at about 90.degree. relative to a
hinge connection between the locking tail flap and the main portion
of the blister strip. In some embodiments, one or more false
blisters formed on the locking tail flap may not be in parallel
alignment with the other false blisters. In some embodiments, one
or more of the false blisters formed on the locking tail flap may
be obliquely angled relative to a hinge connection between the
locking tail flap and the main portion of the blister strip. In
some arrangements, the false blisters formed on the locking tail
flap all may have substantially the same maximum height or one or
more of the false blisters formed on the locking tail flap may have
a greater or lesser maximum height compared to the other false
blisters.
[0289] It is further envisaged, and illustrated in FIG. 3-11B, that
the top surface 230a, 230b of the false blister 218a, which may be
integrally formed in a locking tail flap (not shown in FIG. 3-11B)
may be discontinuous and not smooth. In such an embodiment, one or
more of the integral formations may comprise two or more top
surface sections 230a, 230b. In other words, the top surface may
comprise a transition, such as a step, between two or more top
surface sections 230a, 230b. Nevertheless, in order for the false
blister 218a to provide a degree of rigidity to the locking tail
flap and at the same time allow for the unfettered engagement of
the locking tail flap and outer shell, it is preferred that the
second portion 232 of the false blister 218a having the minimum
height is disposed closest to an engaging portion of the locking
tail flap compared to the first portion 234 of the false blister
218a which has the maximum height.
[0290] In other embodiments, it is further envisaged that "each"
false blister comprises more than one distinctly formed portion,
each of gradually greater height such that a formation may be
considered as being made up of two or more "pillars", each of
different height, with the lowest pillar being disposed closest to
the engaging portion of the locking tail flap. In this way an
overall tapered structure may be formed that can provide a degree
of rigidity to the locking tail flap and at the same time permit
the unfettered engagement of the locking tail flap and the outer
shell.
[0291] It can be appreciated that various changes may be made
within the scope of the present inventions. For example, the size
and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to
accommodate articles of differing size or shape. In other
embodiments of the invention it is envisaged that rather than
provide a plurality of empty blisters arranged in a linear series
across the retention tab or main body, the retention tab or main
body may comprise a single empty blister extending substantially
across the primary package in a transverse direction. Optionally,
the rear wall of the blister provided on the retention tab will
extend linearly across the primary package, the rear wall being
arranged substantially perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis
(notional line D-D in FIG. 1-14 for example) of the primary
package. Optionally, the front wall of the blister provided on the
main body will extend linearly across the primary package, the
front wall being arranged substantially perpendicularly to a
longitudinal axis (notional line D-D in FIG. 1-14 for example) of
the primary package.
[0292] It will be recognized that as used herein, directional
references such as "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "end", "side",
"inner", "outer", "upper" and "lower" do not necessarily limit the
respective panels to such orientation, but may merely serve to
distinguish these panels from one another.
[0293] As used herein, the terms "blister" and "cavity" have been
used to describe an embossment or moulding formed in the primary
package whether provided for increasing the rigidity of the primary
package, or as a spacer element, or for forming a recess for
receiving an item. It will be appreciated that those embossments
which are provided for the function of increasing rigidity of the
primary package or as a spacer element, which are also referred to
herein as "false blisters" "empty cavities" or "dummy blisters",
may not be empty, or may not be configured with a recess or void;
such dummy blisters may be filled with a reinforcing material or
may be formed as a solid structure.
[0294] As used herein, the terms "hinged connection" and "fold
line" refer to all manner of lines that define hinge features of
the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to
one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations
for the blank. A fold line is typically a scored line, an embossed
line, or a debossed line. The preferred form of a "hinged
connection" useful with the invention is an embossed or debossed
line that has been formed by a vacuum-assisted thermoforming
process. Another preferred form of a "hinged connection" is a
groove or rib that has been formed by stamping or cold press
forming. Still another preferred form of a "hinged connection" is a
linear area thinned out by stamping or thermoforming. Such a
thinned out area should have a thickness less than at least the
area surrounding or otherwise adjacent to the thinned out area. In
short, the "hinged connection" that is useful with the invention
may be defined as a living hinge that is formed simultaneously
with, or at the same time with, one or more embossments located
adjacent to the hinged connection and formed from the same material
as that from which the one or more embossments are formed.
[0295] As used herein, the term "severance line" refers to all
manner of lines that facilitate separating portions of the
substrate from one another or that indicate optimal separation
locations. Severance lines may be frangible or otherwise weakened
lines, tear lines, cut lines, or slits.
[0296] As used herein, the word "co-formed" refers to simultaneous
moulding, or otherwise forming, of two or more three-dimensional
portions (e.g., debossments, embossments, blisters, cavities,
projections, protrusions, grooves, ribs, recesses, openings,
apertures, notches, cutouts, etc.) of a single integral member. For
example, "a fold line is co-formed with a blister" means that the
fold line is simultaneously moulded, or otherwise formed, together
with the blister.
[0297] As used herein, the term "moulded portion" refers to a
debossment, an embossment, a blister, a cavity, a projection, a
protrusion, a groove, a rib, a recess, an opening, an aperture, a
notch, a cutout or the like.
[0298] The preferred type of moulding used with the invention to
form the hinged connections and blisters is a
pressure/vacuum-assisted thermoforming and/or a plug-assisted
thermoforming. The plug-assisted thermoforming may utilize either
or both of stationary plugs and movable plugs.
[0299] It should be understood that hinged connection, severance
lines and fold lines can each include elements that are formed in
the substrate of the blank including perforations, a line of
perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single
half-cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut line, slits, scores, any
combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned
and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a
line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of
weakness to define a fold line and/or a severance line. The line of
perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist
breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more
effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.
* * * * *