U.S. patent application number 16/599214 was filed with the patent office on 2020-06-25 for egg container and a method of removing one or more eggs from said egg container.
This patent application is currently assigned to All About Packaging, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is All About Packaging, Inc.. Invention is credited to Eric S. Hamberger, Brogan S. Schein.
Application Number | 20200198879 16/599214 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 71097310 |
Filed Date | 2020-06-25 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200198879 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Schein; Brogan S. ; et
al. |
June 25, 2020 |
EGG CONTAINER AND A METHOD OF REMOVING ONE OR MORE EGGS FROM SAID
EGG CONTAINER
Abstract
An egg container is disclosed which includes a hollow receptacle
having a pair of sidewalls connected to a first end wall, to a
second end wall, and to a bottom wall. The hollow receptacle has an
open top surrounded by a rim. The rim has a pair of folded flanges
formed thereon, each of which extends along at least a portion of
the length of each of the pair of sidewalls. The hollow receptacle
is capable of holding multiple eggs in a stationary and spaced
apart fashion. The egg container further includes a lid sized and
shaped to slide between the pair of folded flanges and completely
cover the open top of the hollow receptacle. A method of removing
one or more eggs from the egg container is also taught.
Inventors: |
Schein; Brogan S.; (Neenah,
WI) ; Hamberger; Eric S.; (Menasha, WI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
All About Packaging, Inc. |
Appleton |
WI |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
All About Packaging, Inc.
Appleton
WI
|
Family ID: |
71097310 |
Appl. No.: |
16/599214 |
Filed: |
October 11, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62783304 |
Dec 21, 2018 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 85/324 20130101;
B65D 43/12 20130101; B65D 1/36 20130101; B65B 69/00 20130101; B65D
85/32 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 85/32 20060101
B65D085/32; B65D 1/36 20060101 B65D001/36; B65D 43/12 20060101
B65D043/12; B65B 69/00 20060101 B65B069/00 |
Claims
1. An egg container comprising: a) a hollow receptacle having a
pair of sidewalls connected to a first end wall, to a second end
wall, and to a bottom wall, said hollow receptacle having an open
top surrounded by a rim, said rim having a pair of folded flanges
formed thereon, each of which extends along at least a portion of
the length of each of said pair of sidewalls, and said hollow
receptacle capable of holding multiple eggs in a stationary and
spaced apart fashion; and b) a lid sized and shaped to slide
between said pair of folded flanges and completely cover said open
top of said receptacle.
2. The egg container of claim 1 wherein said hollow receptacle is
constructed from polyethylene terephthalate or polyethylene
terephthalate with glycol.
3. The egg container of claim 2 wherein said hollow receptacle is
molded from polyethylene terephthalate having a thickness of from
between about 25 to about 35 millimeters.
4. The egg container of claim 1 wherein said pair of folded flanges
is aligned parallel to one another.
5. The egg container of claim 1 wherein said open top of said
hollow receptacle has a generally rectangular configuration, and
said hollow receptacle has a height of at least about 2.5
inches.
6. The egg container of claim 1 wherein said lid is planar and has
a first side, a second side, a first end and a second end, and said
lid has a generally rectangular configuration.
7. The egg container of claim 6 wherein each of said pair of folded
flanges has an upper surface, and said rim includes a pair of
spaced apart upward extending protrusions formed above said second
end wall, and each of said pair of upward extending protrusions
extends above said upper surface of each of said pair of folded
flanges, and said lid has a pair of apertures formed therethrough
adjacent to said second end which corresponds with said pair of
upward extending protrusions, and as said lid is slide between said
pair of folded flanges and covers said open top of said hollow
receptacle, said pair of apertures engage with said pair of
upwardly extending protrusions and lock said lid to said hollow
receptacle.
8. The egg container of claim 1 wherein said lid is constructed
from paperboard.
9. The egg container of claim 8 wherein said paperboard has a
thickness ranging from between about 0.01 inches to about 0.02
inches.
10. An egg container comprising: a) a hollow receptacle having a
pair of sidewalls connected to a first end wall, to a second end
wall, and to a bottom wall, said hollow receptacle having an open
top surrounded by a rim, said rim having a pair of folded flanges
formed thereon, each of which extends along at least a portion of
the length of each of said pair of sidewalls, said pair of folded
flanges having an upper plane, and said rim includes a pair of
spaced apart upwardly extending protrusions formed above said
second end wall, and each of said pair of spaced apart upwardly
extending protrusions extends above said upper surface of said pair
of folded flanges, and said hollow receptacle is capable of holding
multiple eggs in a stationary and spaced apart fashion; and b) a
lid having a first side, a second side, a first end and a second
end, and said lid having a generally rectangular configuration,
said lid having a pair of apertures formed therethrough adjacent to
said second end which corresponds with said pair of upwardly
extending protrusions, and as said lid is slid between said pair of
folded flanges it covers said open top of said hollow receptacle,
and said pair of apertures engage with said pair of spaced apart
upwardly extending protrusions to lock said lid to said hollow
receptacle.
11. The egg container of claim 10 wherein said hollow receptacle is
constructed of a recyclable, clear plastic material.
12. The egg container of claim 10 wherein said hollow receptacle
has stacking nubs formed in said bottom wall.
13. The egg container of claim 10 wherein said hollow receptacle
can nest with another hollow receptacle thereby saving floor space
at a packaging site.
14. The egg container of claim 10 wherein said rim contains a third
upwardly extending protrusion positioned above said second end
wall, and said third upwardly extending protrusion stops said lid
from sliding past said second end wall.
15. The egg container of claim 14 wherein said third upwardly
extending protrusion is positioned between said pair of spaced
apart upwardly extending protrusions.
16. The egg container of claim 10 wherein said lid is constructed
from cardboard and can be printed.
17. An egg container comprising: a) a hollow receptacle having a
pair of sidewalls connected to a first end wall, to a second end
wall, and to a bottom wall, said hollow receptacle having an open
top surrounded by a rim, said rim having a pair of folded flanges
formed thereon, each of which extends along at least a portion of
the length of each of said pair of sidewalls, said pair of folded
flanges having an upper plane, and said rim includes a pair of
spaced apart upwardly extending protrusions formed above said
second end wall and a third upwardly extending protrusion formed
between said pair of spaced apart upwardly extending protrusions,
each of said pair of spaced apart upwardly extending protrusions
and said third upwardly extending protrusion extends above said
upper surface of said pair of folded flanges, and said hollow
receptacle is capable of holding at least twelve eggs in a
stationary and spaced apart fashion; and b) a lid having a first
side, a second side, a first end and a second end, and said lid
having a generally rectangular configuration, said lid having a
pair of apertures formed therethrough adjacent to said second end
which corresponds with said pair of upwardly extending protrusions,
and as said lid is slid between said pair of folded flanges and
covers said open top of said hollow receptacle, said pair of
apertures engage with said pair of spaced apart upwardly extending
protrusions to lock said lid to said hollow receptacle, and said
third upwardly extending protrusion stops said lid from sliding
past said second end wall.
18. The egg container of claim 16 wherein each of said pair of
spaced apart upwardly extending protrusions has a ramp
configuration.
19. The egg container of claim 16 wherein each of said pair of
spaced apart upwardly extending protrusions and said third upwardly
extending protrusion terminate in a respective plane.
20. A method of removing one or more eggs from an egg container
after said egg container has been filled with multiple eggs, said
egg container including a hollow receptacle having a pair of
sidewalls connected to a first end wall, to a second end wall, and
to a bottom wall, said hollow receptacle having an open top
surrounded by a rim, said rim having a pair of folded flanges
formed thereon, each of which extends along at least a portion of
the length of each of said pair of sidewalls, said pair of folded
flanges having an upper plane, and said rim includes a pair of
spaced apart upwardly extending protrusions formed above said
second end wall, and each of said pair of spaced apart upwardly
extending protrusions extends above said upper surface of said pair
of folded flanges, and said hollow receptacle is capable of holding
said multiple eggs in a stationary and spaced apart fashion; and a
lid sized and shaped to slide between said pair of folded flanges
and completely cover said open top of said receptacle, said lid
having a pair of apertures formed therethrough adjacent to said
second end which corresponds with said pair of spaced apart
upwardly extending protrusions, and as said lid is slid between
said pair of folded flanges it covers said open top of said hollow
receptacle, and said pair of apertures engage with said pair of
upwardly extending protrusions to lock said lid to said hollow
receptacle, said method comprising the steps of: a) sliding said
lid in a direction away from said second end wall a sufficient
distance to expose one or more eggs; and b) turning said egg
container upside down to allow said one or more exposed eggs to
fall out into a person's hand.
21. The method of claim 19 further comprising sliding said lid
towards said second end wall of said receptacle; and allowing said
pair of apertures to again engage with said pair of spaced apart
upwardly extending protrusions to close said open top and lock said
lid to said hollow receptacle.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to an egg container and a method of
removing one or more eggs from the egg container.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Today, eggs are typically packaged in cardboard or
Styrofoam.TM. containers which usually can hold twelve or eighteen
eggs. Styrofoam is a trademark used for a light resilient
polystyrene plastic. Styrene is a colorless oily liquid,
C.sub.6H.sub.5CH:CH.sub.2, the monomer of polystryene. Polystyrene
is a rigid clear thermoplastic polymer that can be molded into
objects or be made into a foam used in packaging. The egg cartons
are filled with standard size eggs and are placed in coolers for
sale in various food stores, grocery stores and supermarkets. Most
such egg cartons consist of a clam shell design having an upper
portion hinged to a lower portion. The upper portion can swing open
at the hinge line to expose the eggs contained in the lower
portion. The materials from which these egg cartons are
manufactured completely hide the eggs from view when the egg
cartons are closed. In order for a prospective purchaser to view
the eggs therein, to see if any of the eggs are cracked or broken,
he or she has to physically open the egg carton. This is an
inconvenience to many purchasers. In addition, many of these clam
shell cartons exhibit weak points in their construction. They are
especially prone to side pressures which can cause the egg carton
to open and can cause one or more of the eggs housed therein to be
damaged or cracked during transport and storage. Broken and cracked
eggs mean less profit to the grocery store. A third disadvantage
with current egg cartons is that they cannot be easily printed and
when they are printed, the print quality is usually poor and
exhibits low resolution. This distracts from brand recognition and
limits the ability of the vendor to cross sell complementary
products.
[0003] Now, an improved egg container has been invented which
visibly displays the eggs contained therein and which is not
susceptible to egg breakage due to side pressures exerted thereon.
In addition, this improved egg container can be easily printed in
high resolution and/or in multiple colors. A method of removing one
or more eggs from the egg container is also disclosed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Briefly, this invention relates to an egg container and a
method of removing one or more eggs from the egg container. In one
embodiment, the egg container includes a hollow receptacle having a
pair of sidewalls connected to a first end wall, to a second end
wall, and to a bottom wall. The hollow receptacle has an open top
surrounded by a rim. The rim has a pair of folded flanges formed
thereon, each of which extends along at least a portion of each of
the pair of sidewalls. The hollow receptacle is capable of holding
multiple eggs in a stationary and spaced apart fashion. The egg
container further includes a lid sized and shaped to slide between
the pair of folded flanges and completely cover the open top of the
receptacle.
[0005] In a second embodiment, the egg container includes a hollow
receptacle having a pair of sidewalls connected to a first end
wall, to a second end wall, and to a bottom wall. The hollow
receptacle has an open top surrounded by a rim. The rim has a pair
of folded flanges formed thereon, each of which extends along at
least a portion of each of the pair of sidewalls. The pair of
folded flanges have an upper surface, and the rim includes a pair
of spaced apart upwardly extending protrusions formed above the
second end wall. Each of the pair of upwardly extending protrusions
extends above the upper surface of the pair of folded flanges. The
hollow receptacle is capable of holding multiple eggs in a
stationary and spaced apart fashion. The egg container further
includes a lid having a first side, a second side, a first end and
a second end and has a generally rectangular configuration. The lid
has a pair of apertures formed therethrough, adjacent to the second
end, which corresponds with the pair of upwardly extending
protrusions. As the lid is slid between the pair of folded flanges
it covers the open top of the hollow receptacle, and the pair of
apertures engage with the pair of upwardly extending protrusions to
lock the lid to the hollow receptacle.
[0006] In a third embodiment, the egg container includes a hollow
receptacle having a pair of sidewalls connected to a first end
wall, to a second end wall, and to a bottom wall. The hollow
receptacle has an open top surrounded by a rim. The rim has a pair
of folded flanges formed thereon, each of which extends along at
least a portion of each of the pair of sidewalls. The pair of
folded flanges has an upper surface. The rim includes a pair of
spaced apart upwardly extending protrusions formed above the second
end wall and a third upwardly extending protrusion formed between
the pair of upwardly extending protrusions. Each of the pair of
upwardly extending protrusions and the third upwardly extending
protrusion extends above the upper surface of the pair of folded
flanges, and the hollow receptacle is capable of holding at least
twelve eggs in a stationary and spaced apart fashion. The egg
container further includes a lid having a first side, a second
side, a first end and a second end, and has a generally rectangular
configuration. The lid has a pair of apertures formed therethrough,
adjacent to said second end, which corresponds with the pair of
upwardly extending protrusions. As the lid is slid between the pair
of folded flanges and covers the open top of the hollow receptacle,
the pair of apertures engages with the pair of upwardly extending
protrusions to lock the lid to the hollow receptacle, and the third
upwardly extending protrusion stops the lid from sliding past the
second end wall.
[0007] A method of removing one or more eggs from an egg container
after the egg container has been filled with multiple eggs, is also
taught. The egg container includes a hollow receptacle having a
pair of sidewalls connected to a first end wall, to a second end
wall, and to a bottom wall. The hollow receptacle has an open top
surrounded by a rim. The rim has a pair of folded flanges formed
thereon, each of which extends along at least a portion of each of
the pair of sidewalls. The hollow receptacle is capable of holding
multiple eggs in a stationary and spaced apart fashion. The egg
container further includes a lid sized and shaped to slide between
the pair of folded flanges and completely cover the open top of the
receptacle. The method includes the steps of sliding the lid in a
direction away from the second end wall a sufficient distance to
expose one or more eggs. The egg container is then turned upside
down to allow the one or more exposed eggs to fall out into a
person's hand.
[0008] The general object of this invention is to provide an egg
container. A more specific object of this invention is to provide
an egg container which visibly displays the eggs housed
therein.
[0009] Another object of this invention is to provide an egg
container that does not require a hinge.
[0010] A further object of this invention is to provide an egg
container formed from two distinct members, each of which can be
recycled.
[0011] Still another object of this invention is to provide an egg
container which includes a receptacle which can be nested and
stacked with like receptacles, prior to being filled with eggs at a
packaging site, thereby saving floor space.
[0012] Still further, an object of this invention is to provide a
method of removing one or more eggs from the egg container.
[0013] Still another object of this invention is to provide an egg
container that can be printed in high resolution and/or in multiple
colors.
[0014] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will
become more apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the
following description and the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an egg container which
includes a receptacle and a movable lid.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the receptacle shown in FIG.
1 which is capable of holding six eggs in a stationary and spaced
apart fashion.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a top view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 2.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a side view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 2.
[0019] FIG. 5 is an end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 2.
[0020] FIG. 6 is a top view of the egg container shown in FIG. 1
depicting the lid closing the open top of the receptacle.
[0021] FIG. 7 is a side view of the egg container shown in FIG. 6
showing the presence of the lid.
[0022] FIG. 8 is an end view of the egg container shown in FIG. 6
showing the presence of the lid.
[0023] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a receptacle capable of
holding twelve eggs.
[0024] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the receptacle shown in
FIG. 9 having a lid attached.
[0025] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a receptacle capable of
holding eighteen eggs.
[0026] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the receptacle shown in
FIG. 11 having a lid attached.
[0027] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative egg
container which includes a receptacle and a movable lid.
[0028] FIG. 14 is a top view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 13
without the lid.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] Referring to FIG. 1, an egg container 10 is shown. By
"container" it is meant a receptacle having raised sides and a
bottom used for holding or displaying articles. The egg container
10 is capable of retaining and holding one or more eggs in a
stationary and spaced apart fashion, By "stationary" it is meant
not moving, unchanging, By "spaced apart" it is meant that one egg
does not physically touch or contact another egg. The egg container
10 is designed to hold the eggs in such a fashion that breaking or
cracking of the eggs will be reduced during storage, transport,
while being displayed for sale in a cooler at a grocery store, and
while retained in a consumer's refrigerator after being purchased
from a retail store. The egg container 10 can hold multiple eggs.
By "multiple" it is meant consisting of more than one individual
egg. By "egg" it is meant the round or oval reproductive body of
various animals, consisting usually of an embryo surrounded by
nutrient material and a protective covering. A bird's egg
especially that of a hen, is commonly used as food by humans.
Commonly, four, six, twelve or eighteen eggs are retained in an egg
container 10, However, the egg container 10 can be sized to hold
any number of eggs. For example, the egg container 10 can hold as
few as four eggs, or as many as thirty eggs.
[0030] Referring to FIGS. 1-5, the egg container 10 includes a
hollow receptacle 12. By "hollow receptacle" it is meant a
container that holds items or matter. The hollow receptacle 12,
best shown in FIG. 2, is a one-piece structure. The hollow
receptacle 12 is capable of holding multiple eggs in a stationary
and spaced apart fashion. The hollow receptacle 12 can vary in
size, shape and configuration. The hollow receptacle 12 has a
length l, a width w and a height h, see FIGS. 2 and 4. The length
l, the width w and the height h of the hollow receptacle 12 can all
vary depending upon the number of eggs one wishes to retain in the
egg container 10. For example, for an egg container 10 which can
retain six large size eggs, the hollow receptacle 12 can have a
length l of about 6.3 inches, a width w of about 4.25 inches and a
height h of about 2.7 inches. For an egg container 10 which can
retain twelve large size eggs, the hollow receptacle 12 can have a
length l of about 12.5 inches, a width w of about 4.25 inches and a
height h of about 2.7 inches. For an egg container 10 which can
retain eighteen large size eggs, the hollow receptacle 12 can have
a length l of about 12.5 inches, a width w of about 6.5 inches and
a height h of about 2.7 inches. An egg container 10 designed to
hold "large eggs" can also hold "extra large eggs" without
necessitating an increase in overall dimensions.
[0031] The hollow receptacle 12 can be formed or molded from
various plastic materials. Desirably, the hollow receptacle 12 is
molded. The hollow receptacle 12 should be constructed from a clear
and/or transparent material, such that the eggs retained therein
are visible to a potential purchaser. A desired material from which
the hollow receptacle 12 can be formed is polyethylene
terephthalate (PET). PET is the chemical name for polyester. PET is
a clear, strong, and lightweight plastic that is widely used for
packaging foods and beverages, especially convenience-sized soft
drinks, juices and water. The basic building blocks of PET are
ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid, which are combined to form a
polymer chain. The resulting spaghetti-like strands of PET are
extruded, quickly cooled, and cut into small pellets. The resin
pellets are then heated to a molten liquid that can be easily
extruded or molded into items of practically any shape.
[0032] PET was first synthesized in North America in the mid-1940s
by DuPont chemists searching for new synthetic fibers. DuPont later
branded its PET fiber as "Dacron". Today, more than half of the
world's synthetic fiber is made from PET, which is called
"polyester" when used for fiber or fabric applications. When used
for containers and other purposes, it is called PET or PET
resin.
[0033] It should be understood that other thermoplastic materials,
known to those skilled in the art, can also be used. These include
but are not limited to: polyolefins, including polyethylene,
polypropylene or variations thereof. Polyethylene is a polymerized
ethylene resin, used especially for containers, kitchenware, and
tubing or in the form of films and sheets for packaging.
Polypropylene is any of various thermoplastic resins that are
polymers of polypropylene and are used to make molded articles and
fibers. However, when using polyethylene or polypropylene, one
should make sure that they are polymerized to produce a clear
plastic.
[0034] Other thermoplastic materials that can also be used include
polyethylene terephthalate with glycol (PETG), polyvinyl (PV) and
polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Polyethylene terephthalate with glycol
(PETG) is of the same chemical composition as PET but with the
addition of glycol. With just this one addition, the chemical
composition is completely changed, creating a whole new plastic.
The addition of glycol to create PETG removes the hazing effect
seen during heating and also prevents an undesirable
crystallization effect that causes standard PET to become brittle.
Additionally, the inclusion of glycol in this plastic will
transform the outer walls of a bottle into a softer and more
pliable material, making it easier and more comfortable to
grip.
[0035] Polyvinyl (PV) designates any of a group of polymerized
thermoplastic vinyls, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Polyvinyl
chloride (PVC) is a solid plastic made from vinyl chloride. It is
made softer and more flexible by the addition of phthalates, and
can contain traces of bisphenol A (BPA).
[0036] Recyclable thermoplastic materials can also be used. Such
recyclable thermoplastics include, but are not limited to:
recyclable PET, recyclable PETG, recyclable polyvinyl (PV),
recyclable PVC, as well as other recyclable plastics known to those
skilled in the art.
[0037] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the hollow receptacle 12 has a
pair of sidewalls, 14 and 16, see FIG. 5, connected to a first end
wall 18, to a second end wall 20, and to a bottom wall 22, see
FIGS. 4 and 5. The pair of sidewalls 14 and 16, the first end wall
18, the second end wall 20, and the bottom wall 22 can have the
same thickness or be of different thicknesses, Desirably, the pair
of sidewalls 14 and 16, the first end wall 18, the second end wall
20, and the bottom wall 22 will be formed to approximately the same
thickness. It has been found that a thickness ranging from between
about 25 millimeters (ml) to about 35 ml works well. Desirably, the
thickness of the pair of sidewalls 14 and 16, the first end wall
18, the second end wall 20, and the bottom wall 22 will be less
than about 35 ml. More desirably, the thickness of the pair of
sidewalls 14 and 16, the first end wall 18, the second end wall 20,
and the bottom wall 22 will be less than about 33 mL Even more
desirably, the thickness of the pair of sidewalls 14 and 16, the
first end wall 18, the second end wall 20, and the bottom wall 22
will be less than about 30 ml. Still more desirably, the thickness
of the pair of sidewalls 14 and 16, the first end wall 18, the
second end wall 20, and the bottom wall 22 will be less than about
28 ml.
[0038] It should be understood that the thickness of the pair of
sidewalls 14 and 16, the first end wall 18, the second end wall 20,
and the bottom wall 22 can vary over each particular surface area.
The thickness does not need to be uniform over the entire surface
area, if desired. For example, the thickness of the pair of
sidewalls 14 and 16, and the first end wall 18, the second end wall
20, could vary over the height h, see FIG. 4, Desirably, the
thickness of the pair of sidewalls 14 and 16, the first end wall
18, the second end wall 20, and the bottom wall 22 will be
uniform.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 2, the hollow receptacle 12 has an open
top 24 which is surrounded by a rim 26, The open top 24 can be
formed or molded to any known geometrical shape or configuration.
Desirably, the open top 24 has a generally rectangular
configuration. The size of the opening which forms the open top 24
can also vary. For example, for a hollow receptacle 12 which is
designed to hold and retain six eggs, the open top 24 can range
from about 6.2 inches by 4.1 inches.
[0040] Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 3, the size and shape of the
rim 26 can vary. The rim 26 does not need to exhibit a uniform
width around the periphery of the hollow receptacle 12. The rim 26
includes a finger indentation 27 located adjacent to the first end
wall 18. The finger indentation 27 can be a notch, a cutout or a
blank space formed in the rim 26, adjacent to the first end wall
18. The finger indentation 27 can vary in size, shape and
configuration. The finger indentation 27 should be sized to allow
the tip of a person's thumb and the tip of a person's index finger
to easily be positioned within the finger indentation 27, The
finger indentation 27 can be situated midway between the pair of
sidewalls 14 and 16. Alternatively, the finger indentation 27 could
be located closer to either of the pair of sidewalls 14 and 16, if
desired. The width of the rim 26 around the periphery of the hollow
receptacle 12 can vary to accommodate a locking mechanism, which
will be explained later. The width of the rim 26 can range from
between about 0.1 inches to about 1.0 inches around the periphery
of the hollow receptacle 12.
[0041] Desirably, the rim 26 is planar except for the presence of a
pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30. By "planar" it is meant of or
relating to, or situated in a plane, being relatively flat having a
two-dimensional quality. Each of the pair of folded flanges, 28 and
30, formed on the rim 26, extends along at least a portion of the
length l of the hollow receptacle 12. By "folded flange" it is
meant a folded protruding rim, edge, rib or collar used to receive
another object that can slide within the fold. The pair of folded
flanges, 28 and 30, is aligned above the pair of sidewalls 14 and
16, see FIG. 2. Each of the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, has
a length l.sub.1 and a width w.sub.1. The length l.sub.1 and the
width w.sub.1 can vary. For example, for a hollow receptacle 12
having a length l of about 6.3 inches, each of the folded flanges
28 and 30 can have a length l.sub.1 ranging from between about 2
inches to about 4.25 inches. The width w.sub.1 of each of the pair
of folded flanges, 28 and 30, can be about 0.15 inches or less.
Desirably, the width w.sub.1 of each of the pair of folded flanges,
28 and 30, can be about 0.125 inches or less. More desirably, the
width w.sub.1 of each of the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, can
be about 0.1 inches or less. Even more desirably, the width w.sub.1
of each of the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, can be at least
about 0.05 inches. Most desirably, the width w.sub.1 of each of the
pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, can range from between about
0.05 inches to about 0.15 inches.
[0042] The pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, can be aligned
parallel to one another or be formed at an angle relative to one
another. Desirably, the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, is
aligned parallel to one another. Each of the pair of folded
flanges, 28 and 30, can be linear in configuration, as is clearly
shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Alternatively, one or both of the pair of
folded flanges, 28 and 30, can have a non-linear profile. For
example, one or both of the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, can
have an arcuate, curved or scalloped appearance. By "scallop" it is
meant one of a series of curved or arcuate projections forming an
ornamental border.
[0043] Referring again to FIG. 5, each of the pair of folded
flanges 28 and 30 has an upper surface 32 which is located above
the rim 26. Each of the upper surfaces 32, 32 can be situated at a
distance d above the rim 26. The distance d can vary in dimension.
Desirably, the distance d is about 0.15 inches or less. More
desirably, the distance d is about 0.1 inches or less. Even more
desirably, the distance d is about 0.08 inches or less. Most
desirably, the distance d ranges from between about 0.05 inches to
about 0.15 inches.
[0044] Again referring to FIG. 2, each of the pair of folded
flanges, 28 and 30, is spaced away from the first end 18 of the
receptacle 12 by a distance d.sub.1. The distance d.sub.1 can vary
in dimension. For a six egg receptacle 12, having a length l of
about 6.3 inches, the distance d.sub.1 can be about 1 inch or less.
The reason for this setback will be explained shortly.
[0045] The opposite end of each of the pair of folded flanges, 28
and 30, can terminate approximate the second end 20 of the
receptacle 12. Alternatively, the opposite end of each of the pair
of folded flanges, 28 and 30, can terminate short of or be spaced
apart from the second end 20 of the receptacle 12. In FIG. 2, the
opposite end of each of the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30,
terminates just short of the second end 20 of the receptacle
12.
[0046] Referring now to FIGS. 2-5, the hollow receptacle 12 is
constructed such that it can easily nest with a like hollow
receptacle 12. The ability to nest multiple receptacles 12 after
they are molded and prior to being filled with eggs can greatly
reduce needed storage space, transportation cost and space needed
at the vendor's plant as the egg containers are waiting to be
filled with eggs, Proper nesting can also increase the number of
receptacles 12 stacked on a skid in preparation to be shipped to
the vendor.
[0047] Still referring to FIGS. 2-5, the hollow receptacle 12
includes multiple egg cavities 34. Six egg cavities 34 are shown in
FIGS. 2-5. Each egg cavity 34 is sized and shaped to receive an egg
(not shown). An egg has a generally oval shape with one end being
slightly narrower than the opposite end. By "oval" it is meant an
elliptical form or figure, resembling an egg in shape. Normally,
the narrower end of each egg is inserted downward into each egg
cavity 34. Each egg cavity 34 has an upper inside portion 36, a
lower inside portion 38, and a bottom inside surface 40. The upper
inside portion 36 and the lower inside portion 38 can vary in
configuration. As depicted, the upper inside portion 36 can have a
generally square shape while the lower inside portion 38 has a
conical shape. By "conical" it is meant relating to or shaped like
a cone. This conical configuration is slightly narrower than the
profile of an egg which would be inserted therein. This arrangement
means that the narrower end of the egg will be spaced away from the
bottom inside surface 40 of the receptacle 12. The distance from
the bottom of each egg to the bottom inside surface 40 of the
receptacle 12 can vary. Desirably, this distance is about 0.25
inches or less. More desirably, this distance is about 0.20 inches
or less. Even more desirably, this distance is about 0.15 inches or
less. Most desirably, this distance ranges from between about 0.05
inches to about 0.25 inches. The air space between the narrower end
of the egg and the bottom inside surface 40 of the receptacle 12
provides safety for the eggs and in the instance where weight
happens to be vertically imposed upon the egg container 10, the
hollow receptacle 12 would compress while leaving the eggs
unscathed. The air space functions as an impact bumper. By
preventing each egg from physically contacting the bottom inside
surface 40, one can decrease the number of eggs which may become
cracked or broken.
[0048] Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 3, each egg cavity 34 also
includes at least one bump out 42. The size, shape and
configuration of each bump out 42 can vary. Normally, all of the
bump outs 42, 42 are of the same size and configuration. Each bump
out 42 is formed adjacent to a side or end of the upper inside
portion 36 of each of the egg cavities 34. The bump out 42 creates
a space by moving a portion of the side walls, 14 and 16, and a
portion of the first end wall 18 and the second end wall 20,
outward away from the center of the hollow receptacle 12. Each of
the bump outs 42, 42 adds structural rigidity to the hollow
receptacle 12. This added structural rigidity increases the side
strength and end strength of the hollow receptacle 12. The bump
outs 42, 42 increase the ability of the hollow receptacle's 12 to
handle sideward forces and end forces that could be exerted on the
egg container 10. This protects the eggs from side impact and end
impact. In addition, each of the bump outs 42, 42 provides space
for a consumer to reach into the open top 24 of the hollow
receptacle 12, with his or her thumb and one or more fingers, and
readily grasp and remove an egg from the egg container 10.
[0049] Still referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, one can clearly see that
the egg cavities 34, 34 located at each corner of the hollow
receptacle 12 will have two bump outs 42, 42. The two bump outs 42,
42 are perpendicularly aligned relative to one another. The
combination of these two bump outs 42, 42, so aligned, provide for
very rigid corners on the hollow receptacle 12.
[0050] Referring again to FIGS. 2-4, the size, shape and
configuration of each of the bump outs 42, 42 can vary. Desirably,
each of the bump outs 42, 42 has the same overall shape and
dimensions. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, each of the bump outs 42 has
a length l.sub.3, a width w.sub.3 and a height h.sub.3, The length
l.sub.3, the width w.sub.3 and the height h.sub.3 can all vary. For
the egg container 10 shown in FIGS. 2-4, the length l.sub.3 can be
about 1.2 inches or less, the width w.sub.3 can be about 0.35
inches or less, and the height h.sub.3 can be about 1.5 inches or
less.
[0051] Still referring to FIGS. 2-5, the lower inside portion 38 of
each egg cavity 34 also includes a plurality of spaced apart ribs
44. The number of ribs 44 utilized can vary. Likewise, the
configuration of each of the ribs 44 can vary. In FIGS. 2-5, eight
vertically oriented ribs 44 are equally spaced around the conical
lower inside portion 38. In other words, each rib 44 is spaced 45
degrees from an adjacent rib 44. The size and shape of each of the
ribs 44 can vary. The plurality of vertically oriented ribs 44, 44
add structural integrity to the lower inside portion 38 of each of
the egg cavities 34, 34. In fact, the plurality of vertically
oriented ribs 44, 44 practically make the conical lower inside
portion 38 crush resistant. This design provides superior strength
to the lower inside portion 38 of each of the egg cavities 34, 34
and reduces the chance that an egg positioned in each of the egg
cavities 34, 34 will become broken or cracked during storage or
transport.
[0052] It should be noted that in FIGS. 2-5, each of the ribs 44,
44 is visible on the exterior surface of the hollow receptacle 12,
as well.
[0053] Referring now to FIGS. 1, 3, 4 and 5, the hollow receptacle
12 also includes one or more stacking nubs 46, 46. Desirably, four
stacking nubs 46, 46, 46 and 46 are formed in the bottom wall 22 of
the hollow receptacle 12 adjacent to each corner of the hollow
receptacle 12, Each stacking nub 46 is axially aligned with the
center of an egg cavity 34 which is located at a corner of the
hollow receptacle 12, Those egg cavities 34, 34 situated away from
a corner of the hollow receptacle 12 do not need to include a
stacking nub 46. Each stacking nub 46 can be formed or molded as
the hollow receptacle 12 is being formed or molded. Each stacking
nub 46 is integral with the bottom wall 22 of the hollow receptacle
12 and extends downward therefrom. Each stacking nub 46 has a
height h.sub.2, see FIG. 4. The height h.sub.2 can vary in
dimension. The height h.sub.2 of each stacking nub 46 should be the
same. The height h.sub.2 of each stacking nub 46 can be about 0.1
inches or less, Desirably, the height h.sub.2 of each stacking nub
46 can be about 0.09 inches or less. More desirably, the height
h.sub.2 of each stacking nub 46 can be about 0.08 inches or less.
Even more desirably, the height h.sub.2 of each stacking nub 46 can
be about 0.05 inches or less. Most desirably, the height h.sub.2 of
each stacking nub 46 can range from between about 0.01 inches to
about 0.1 inches.
[0054] The presence of the stacking nubs 46, 46, 46 and 46 is
optional and they could be eliminated, if desired. However, when
present, the four stacking nubs 46, 46, 46 and 46 on each hollow
receptacle 12 facilitate stacking one egg container 10, when
filled, on top of another filled egg container 10. The stacking
nubs 46, 46, 46 and 46 provide for a secure, non-skid fit with
another filled egg container 10. The stacking nubs 46, 46, 46 and
46 also provide stability when two or more filled egg containers
10, 10 are stacked vertically, one upon another, such as in an open
cooler at a grocery store. The shallow profile of the four stacking
nubs 46, 46, 46 and 46 allows a consumer to easily pull a filled
egg container 10 out of a cooler where multiple filled egg
containers 10, 10 are stacked for sale. However, the four stacking
nubs 46, 46, 46 and 46 have a sufficient depth so that minor
vibrations within a store will not cause the uppermost filled egg
container 10 to slide off of a filled egg container 10 positioned
below it. The four stacking nubs 46, 46, 46 and 46 formed on each
egg container 10 also aid in the transportation of the filled egg
containers 10, 10 from the packaging plant to the retail store.
[0055] The four stacking nubs 46, 46, 46 and 46 formed in the
bottom wall 22 of each hollow receptacle 12 are arranged and
designed to engage with corresponding apertures as will be
explained shortly.
[0056] Referring again to FIGS. 1-5, the hollow receptacle 12
further includes a pair of spaced apart, upwardly extending
protrusions 48, 48 formed on or molded into the rim 26. The pair of
spaced apart protrusions 48, 48 extends upward from the rim 26
approximately above the second end wall 20, The pair of spaced
apart protrusions 48, 48 can be formed or molded above the second
end wall 20. The pair of spaced apart protrusions 48, 48 can be
spaced any distance apart from one another. Desirably, the pair of
spaced apart protrusions 48, 48 is spaced at least about 0.5 inches
apart from one another. More desirably, the pair of spaced apart
protrusions 48, 48 is spaced at least about 0.6 inches apart from
one another. Even more desirably, the pair of spaced apart
protrusions 48, 48 is spaced at least about 0.75 inches apart from
one another. Most desirably, the pair of spaced apart protrusions
48, 48 is spaced from between about 0.5 inches to about 3 inches
apart.
[0057] As mentioned above, the rim 26 can vary in width. The rim 26
can be formed or molded such that it is wider at the second end 20
to accommodate the pair of spaced apart, upwardly extending
protrusions 48, 48, For example, the width of the rim 26,
approximate the second end 20, can range from between about 0.2
inches to about 0.75 inches. Desirably, the width of the rim 26,
approximate the second end 20, should be at least about 0.25
inches. More desirably, the width of the rim 26, approximate the
second end 20, should be at least about 0.3 inches, Even more
desirably, the width of the rim 26, approximate the second end 20,
should be at least about 0.35 inches. Most desirably, the width of
the rim 26, approximate the second end 20, should range from
between about 0.25 inches to about 0.7 inches.
[0058] Each of the pair of spaced apart, upwardly extending
protrusions 48, 48 can have almost any desired geometrical profile.
As depicted, each of the pair of spaced apart, upwardly extending
protrusions 48, 48 is formed or molded into a ramp 50 having an
inclined surface 52. The ramp 50 starts inclining upward from the
rim 26 and reaches an apex adjacent to an outer edge of the rim 26,
In other words, the incline 52 extends upward away from the first
end 18 of the hollow receptacle 12. The pair of spaced apart,
upwardly extending protrusions 48, 48 extends above the upper
surface 32 of the pair of folded flanges 28 and 30. The actual
distance that the pair of spaced apart, upwardly extending
protrusions 48, 48 extends above the upper surface 32 of the pair
of folded flanges 28 and 30 can vary. A distance of from between
about 1 millimeter to about 15 millimeters is usually
sufficient.
[0059] Referring again to FIGS. 1-8, the hollow receptacle 12 also
includes a third upwardly extending protrusion 54 formed between
the pair of spaced apart, upwardly extending protrusions 48, 48.
The third upwardly extending protrusion 54 can have almost any
desired geometrical profile. As depicted, the third upwardly
extending protrusion 54 is a polygon having six sides, commonly
referred to as a hexagon. The third upwardly extending protrusion
54 functions as an abutment or stop. The third upwardly extending
protrusion 54 extends above the upper surface 32 of the pair of
folded flanges, 28 and 30. Desirably, the pair of spaced apart,
upwardly extending protrusions 48, 48 and the third upwardly
extending protrusion 54 all extend above the upper surface 32 of
the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, by the same amount. In other
words, the pair of spaced apart, upwardly extending protrusions 48,
48, and the third upwardly extending protrusion 54 all terminate in
the same horizontal plane.
[0060] It should be understood that the hollow receptacle 12 is
washable and reusable. It can easily be washed out and be reused
even if an egg accidentally happens to crack while being stored in
it. This reusability factor is for the benefit of the end consumer,
Current cardboard egg cartons and porous egg cartons cannot be
washed and reused because a cracked or broken egg renders the egg
carton unsanitary and therefore it must be discarded.
[0061] The hollow receptacle 12 is also recyclable. This is
especially true when the hollow receptacle 12 is formed or molded
from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or from polyethylene
terephthalate with glycol (PETG). By recycling such egg containers,
a consumer helps to keep our planet environmentally safe for future
generations.
[0062] Referring now to FIG. 1 and to FIGS. 6-8, the egg container
10 further includes a lid 56, By "lid" it is meant a removal cover
for a hollow receptacle 12. The lid 56 is sized and shaped to slide
between the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, and completely cover
the open top 24 of the hollow receptacle 12, Alternatively, the lid
56 could be temporarily bowed or be made convex and be positioned
over the open top 24 and then be pressed downward so that it enters
the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, Desirably, the lid 56 is
planar and/or flat. The lid 56 has a first side 58, a second side
60, a first end 62 and a second end 64. The lid 56 can have almost
any desired shape or configuration depending on the configuration
of the open top 24 of the hollow receptacle 12.
[0063] In FIG. 6, the lid 56 is depicted as having a generally
rectangular configuration with four corners. The lid 56 can have
one or more square corners, rounded corners or have a radius formed
at one or more of the corners, if desired. The lid 56 can be
constructed from various types of paper, paste-board and cardboard
materials. An inexpensive material that works well as the lid 56 is
paperboard. By "paperboard" it is meant cardboard or paste-board,
or a stiff material made from pressed paper pulp or pasted sheets
of paper. Alternatively, the lid 56 could be constructed from
plastic, a thermoplastic or even a plastic film, Polypropylene,
polyethylene or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) could be used to
construct the lid 56.
[0064] Desirably, the lid 56 is constructed from a paperboard
material that can be printed on and will exhibit high print
resolution. It is advantageous to be able to print words, letters,
numbers, symbols, and/or graphics on the lid 56. The printing can
be in black and white ink or be in color, Multiple colors could be
employed.
[0065] Paperboard allows for high print resolution. Paperboard also
allows for smaller font size to be printed and still be legible.
This means that additional subject matter, such as nutritional
facts, cross-promotion selling information, date codes, bar codes,
QR codes, etc. can be printed on the lid 56. In addition, fine
details, such as is needed to print bar codes can be easily
accomplished. Furthermore, many food items sold in a retail
environment are required by Federal, state and/or local laws to
display certain information, including but not limited to: date
codes, bar codes, sales price, distributor information, health
information, expiration date of the product, etc. Such information
can be printed on the lid 56 quickly, effectively and cheaply. In
addition, most food vendors desire to display brand information and
graphics showing the product retained in the package or container.
If this information can be legibly printed onto the lid 56, it can
satisfy both the governmental requirements and the distributor's
desires.
[0066] It should be understood that the paperboard lid 56 is
capable of having a printed label or sticker adhered to it. This
means that a low price sticker or an eye catching label could be
secured to the lid 56, if desired. Alternatively, a removable,
discount coupon could also be temporarily adhered to the lid 56
which can be removed by the customer at the cash register and
scanned such that a discount can be obtained.
[0067] Referring to FIG. 7, the lid 56 is relatively thin. The lid
56 has a thickness t which can vary in dimension. Desirably, the
thickness t of the lid 56 ranges from between about 0.01 inches to
about 0.02 inches. More desirably, the thickness t of the lid 56 is
less than about 0.02 inches, More desirably, the thickness t of the
lid 56 is less than about 0.017 inches. Even more desirably, the
thickness t of the lid 56 is less than about 0.015 inches, Most
desirably, the thickness t of the lid 56 is less than about 0.013
inches.
[0068] Referring again to FIG. 6, the first end 62 of the lid 56
can be straight or linear. The opposite or second end 64 of the lid
56 can include a cutout 66. The cutout 66 can be located along the
longitudinal central axis X-X of the lid 56. Alternatively, the
cutout 66 could be offset from the longitudinal central axis X-X of
the lid 56, if desired.
[0069] The lid 56 also has a pair of apertures 68, 68 formed
therethrough. The pair of apertures 68, 68 is situated adjacent to
the second end 64 of the lid 56. The pair of apertures 68, 68 is
sized and arranged to correspond with the pair of spaced apart,
upwardly extending protrusions 48, 48 formed on the hollow
receptacle 12, As depicted, the pair of apertures 68, 68 have a
generally rectangular shape. The shape of the pair of apertures 68,
68 should correspond with the shape of the pair of spaced apart,
upwardly extending protrusions 48, 48. The actual size of the pair
of apertures 68, 68 can be equal to or be slightly larger than the
size of the pair of spaced apart, upwardly extending protrusions
48, 48. Each of the pair of apertures 68, 68 should be sized to run
up the ramp 50 of each of the pair of protrusions 48, 48 as the lid
56 is slid over the open top 24 and approaches the second end wall
20 of the hollow receptacle 12, The pair of apertures 68, 68 should
snugly fit over the pair of spaced apart, upwardly extending
protrusions 48, 48 and thereby temporarily lock the lid 56 to the
hollow receptacle 12. The third upwardly extending protrusion 54
functions as a stop to prevent the lid 56 from sliding beyond the
second end wall 20 of the hollow receptacle 12. The third upwardly
extending protrusion 54 engages the cutout 66. The cutout 66 can be
equal in size or be slightly larger than the size of the third
upwardly extending protrusion 54. The cutout 66 should have a shape
which allows the third upwardly extending protrusion 54 to fit
therein. As the lid 56 is slid between the pair of folded flanges,
28 and 30, it covers the open top 24 of the hollow receptacle 12,
thereby completely enclosing the eggs which were previously
inserted into the egg container 10.
[0070] It should be noted that the apex of each of the two ramps
50, 50 is at a height above the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30.
This height difference means that the lid 56 will not be able to
extend over the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, should the
hollow receptacle 12 be squeezed from the side.
[0071] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 6, the lid 56 also includes
four small apertures 70, 70, 70 and 70 which are sized and arranged
to correspond to the four stacking nubs 46, 46, 46 and 46 formed on
or molded into the bottom wall 22 of the hollow receptacle 12. As
the four stacking nubs 46, 46, 46 and 46 of each hollow receptacle
12 engages with the four small apertures 70, 70, 70 and 70 formed
on the lid 56 of a lower situated filled egg container 10, the four
stacking nubs 46, 46, 46 and 46 will lock to the four small
apertures 70, 70, 70 and 70 and prevent horizontal sliding
therebetween.
[0072] Still referring to FIGS. 1 and 6, the lid 56 can optionally
contain one or more perforations 72 formed between each of the pair
of apertures 68, 68 and the second end 64 of the lid 56. As stated
above, the pair of protrusions 48, 48 cooperate with the pair of
apertures 68, 68 to lock the lid 56 to the hollow receptacle 12.
The perforations 72, 72 facilitate removal of the lid 56 from the
pair of protrusions 48, 48. When the consumer initially wants to
open the egg container 10, he or she can grasp the lid 56 at the
first end 62, at the location of the finger indentation 27 formed
on the hollow receptacle 12, using his or her thumb and index
finger. As the consumer pulls the lid 56 away from the second end
wall 20, the lid 56 will tear at the pair of perforations 72, 72
and separate from the pair of protrusions 48, 48. After this
separation occurs, the lid 56 can be slid away from the second end
wall 20 of the hollow receptacle 12 thereby exposing the eggs
retained in the hollow receptacle 12. The lid 56 can be partially
slid away from the second end wall 20 of the hollow receptacle 12
to expose one or more eggs. Alternatively, the lid 56 can be slid
completely away from the open top 24 of the hollow receptacle 12,
whereby all of the eggs retained in the hollow receptacle 12 are
exposed.
[0073] After the consumer has withdrawn one or more eggs from the
hollow receptacle 12, the lid 56 can be slid back towards the
second end wall 20 which recluses the egg container 10. In this
position, the broken perforations 72, 72 will provide a visual
indication to the consumer that the egg container 10 has previously
been opened. This visual indication alerts the consumer that the
egg container 10 most likely contains fewer eggs than a newly
purchased egg container 10. In addition, when the consumer is at
the grocery store and notices that the perforations 72, 72 have
been broken, he or she should avoid purchasing that particular egg
container 10 for it means someone else has already tampered with
the lid 56.
[0074] The lid 56 can be easily separated from the hollow
receptacle 12 which makes it convenient to recycle. Since both the
hollow receptacle 12 and the lid 56 can be recycled, the egg
container 10 is environmentally friendly.
[0075] It should also be understood that the lid 56 will not impede
the ability of a consumer to view the eggs retained in the egg
container 10, to see if any are cracked, because the clear, one
piece hollow receptacle 12 allows for visible inspection of the
eggs. The use of two distinct and integral members, the one-piece,
hollow receptacle 12 and the movable lid 56, provides maximum
visibility of the eggs retained in the egg container 10. Even when
the egg container 10 has been purchased and is present in the
consumer's refrigerator, the consumer is not required to pick up or
open the egg container 10 to see how many eggs are present therein.
The one-piece, hollow receptacle 12 provides complete visibility of
the eggs retained in the egg container 10.
[0076] As mentioned earlier, the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30,
can be positioned inward from the first end wall 18 by the distance
d.sub.1. By employing this configuration, the rim 26 is exposed
adjacent to the first end wall 18. This allows the lid 56 to be
picked up by a suction cup mechanism (not shown) and be dropped or
deposited onto the rim 26 of the hollow receptacle 12 after the egg
cavities 34, 34 formed within the hollow receptacle 12 have been
filled with eggs. The suction cup mechanism can then slide the lid
56 horizontally on the rim 26, towards the second end wall 20,
between the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30. The lid 56 can be
slid over the open top 24 of the hollow receptacle 12 until the
pair of apertures 68, 68 engage with the pair of protrusions 48, 48
and the first end of the lid 56 contacts the third upwardly
extending protrusion 54. The third upwardly extending protrusion 54
acts as a stop and prevents the lid 56 from being slid any farther
relative to the hollow receptacle 12. Alternatively, the lid 56 and
the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, can be die cut with offset
curved or scallop shaped lines to enable the lid 56 to be dropped
into the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, and then be slid with
the suction cup mechanism towards the second end wall 20 until the
lid 56 is locked in place when the pair of apertures 68, 68 engage
with the pair of protrusions 48, 48.
[0077] As mentioned above, the egg containers 10 have been designed
to allow the empty egg containers 10, 10 to easily nest with one
another. Nesting reduces the space needed to store and/or transport
multiple empty egg containers 10. Proper nesting can increase the
number of empty egg containers 10 that can be loaded onto a
skid.
[0078] Current egg cartons require a distributor to have many
different pre-printed egg cartons on hand at the plant where the
egg cartons are to be filled with eggs. This increases the amount
of staging and floor space needed for the filling and packaging
operation. With the present egg containers 10, less floor space and
inventory is needed since the hollow receptacles 12 are identical
for all brands. The printed lid 56 is the only brand identifier
needed. It is more space effective and efficient to utilize several
different flat, printed lids 56, 56, each of which can be mated to
only one universal hollow receptacle 12, then to warehouse many
different pre-printed egg cartons for the different brands that
need to be filled and packaged. When one takes into account the
varied sizes that each brand has, this space saving is
tremendous.
[0079] It should be evident that our newly disclosed egg container
10 does not utilize a hinge design. Hinges are prone to breaking.
Therefore, there is no chance of a hinge breaking during
manufacturing of the egg container 10, filling of the egg container
10, shipping of the egg container 10, or storage of the egg
container in a consumer's refrigerator. This is another advantage
over currently available egg cartons constructed from cardboard or
Styrofoam.TM. Referring now to FIGS. 9 and 10, an egg container 10'
is shown which includes a receptacle 12' and a lid 56'. The
receptacle 12' is capable of holding a dozen (twelve) eggs. The
receptacle 12' has a length l' and a width w', see FIG. 9, In FIG.
2, the receptacle 12, which is capable of holding six eggs, has a
length l and a width w. The length l' of the receptacle 12' is
longer than the length l of the receptacle 12. The length l' of the
receptacle 12' can range from between about 11 inches to about 13
inches. Desirably, the length l' of the receptacle 12' is at least
about 12 inches. More desirably, the length l' of the receptacle
12' is at least about 12.25 inches. Even more desirably, the length
of the receptacle 12' is at least about 12.5 inches. Most
desirably, the length l' of the receptacle 12' ranges from between
about 12 inches to about 12.75 inches. The width w' of the
receptacle 12' is equal to the width w of the receptacle 12. Except
for the difference in length the receptacle 12' is identical in
construction to the receptacle 12.
[0080] Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, an egg container 10'' is
shown which includes a receptacle 12'' and a lid 56''. The lid 56''
has a longitudinal central axis X.sub.1-X.sub.1. The receptacle
12'' is capable of holding eighteen eggs. The receptacle 12'' has a
length l'' and a width w'', see FIG. 11. In FIG. 9, the receptacle
12', which is capable of holding twelve eggs, has a length and a
width w'. The length l'' of the receptacle 12'' is equal to the
length l' of the receptacle 12'. However, the width w'' of the
receptacle 12'' is wider than the width w' of the receptacle 12'.
The width w'' of the receptacle 12'' can range from between about 6
inches to about 8 inches. Desirably, the width w'' of the
receptacle 12'' is at least about 6 inches. More desirably, the
width w'' of the receptacle 12'' is at least about 6.5 inches. Even
more desirably, the width w'' of the receptacle 12'' is at least
about 6.75 inches. Most desirably, the width w'' of the receptacle
12'' ranges from between about 6 inches and about 7 inches. In
addition, one will notice that the receptacle 12'' also includes a
fourth upwardly extending protrusion 55. The fourth upwardly
extending protrusion 55 is identical in size and configuration to
the third upwardly extending protrusion 54. The fourth upwardly
extending protrusion 55 is located adjacent to the third upwardly
extending protrusion 54 and is positioned at the same end of the
receptacle 12'', The third and fourth upwardly extending
protrusions, 54 and 55 respectively, can be aligned an equal
distance apart from the longitudinal central axis X.sub.1-X.sub.1
of the lid 56''. The lid 56'' also differs from the lid 56 or 56'
in that it includes two spaced apart cutouts 66, 66 which are sized
and configured to accommodate the third and fourth upwardly
extending protrusions, 54 and 55 respectively. The third and fourth
upwardly extending protrusions, 54 and 55 respectively, act as
stops for the lid 56''.
[0081] Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14, an alternative egg
container 10''' is shown which is similar to the egg container 10,
shown in FIG. 1, except that each of the longitudinal folded
flanges 28 and 30 is formed from two or more short, individual
segments 28', 28' and 30', 30'. The individual segments 28', 28'
and 30', 30' allow the egg container 10''' to nest better with
another receptacle 12''' when empty. The number of individual
segments 28' and 30'' can vary. The size and shape of each
individual segment 28' and 30' can also vary, Desirably, each of
the individual segments 28' and 30' are constructed to have the
same dimensions and shape. Each individual segment 28' or 30' can
be formed having a length of less than about 1 inch. Desirably,
each individual segment 28' or 30' has a length of less than about
0.75 inches. More desirably, each individual segment 28' or 30' has
a length of less than about 0.5 inches. More desirably, each
individual segment 28' or 30' has a length ranging from between
about 0.25 inches to about 1 inch.
[0082] For an egg container 10''' having a length and a width which
can accommodate more than six egg cavities, the number of
individual segments 28' and 30' can increase as the length of the
egg container 10'' increases. It is possible to utilize 3, 4, 5, 6,
etc. individual segments 28' and a like number of individual
segments 30'. As shown in FIG. 13, for an egg container 10''' with
six egg cavities 34, two individual segments 28', 28' and 30', 30'
can be formed on each sidewall 14 and 16 of the receptacle 12''',
For an egg container 10' with twelve egg cavities 34, similar to
that shown in FIG. 9, five individual segments 28' and five
individual segments 30' can be formed on each sidewall 14 and 16
respectively. The individual segments 28' and the individual
segments 30' can be evenly spaced apart from an adjacent individual
segment 28' or 30'. Alternatively, the individual segments 28' or
30' can be spaced apart at varying distances from an adjacent
individual segment 28' or 30' respectively. Desirably, each of the
individual segments 28' will be evenly spaced apart from an
adjacent individual segment 28' and each of the individual segments
30' will be evenly spaced apart from an adjacent individual segment
30'. Furthermore, an individual segment 28', situated on the
sidewall 14, can be aligned opposite to one of the individual
segments 30', situated on the opposite sidewall 16. Alternatively,
an individual segment 28', situated on the sidewall 14, can be
offset from an individual segment 30', situated on the opposite
sidewall 16.
[0083] Referring to FIG. 14, the receptacle 12''' is similar to the
receptacle 12, shown in FIG. 3, except that each of the two corners
74, 74 of the receptacle 12''', located adjacent to the second end
wall 20, is formed at an angle. For example, each corner 74, 74 can
be die cut at a desired angle. A corner angle of about 45.degree.
is shown in FIG. 14, The angle of each corner 74, 74 can range from
between about 30.degree. to about 60.degree.. Desirably, the angle
of each corner 74, 74 can range from between about 35.degree. to
about 55.degree.. More desirably, the angle of each corner 74, 74
can range from between about 40.degree. to about 50.degree.. The
angled corner 74, 74 enables a user to easily grasp the lid 56 and
raise it upward away from the pair of protrusions 48, 48. With the
lid 56 raised, the user can then slide the lid 56 away from the
first end wall 18, thereby exposing the eggs contained within the
receptacle 12''.
Method
[0084] A method of removing one or more eggs from the egg container
10 after the egg container 10 has initially been filled with eggs
is also taught. The egg container 10 includes a hollow receptacle
12 having a pair of sidewalls, 14 and 16, connected to a first end
wall 18, to a second end wall 20, and to a bottom wall 22. The
hollow receptacle 12 has an open top 24 surrounded by a rim 26. The
rim 26 contains a finger indentation 27 formed adjacent to the
first end wall 18. The rim 26 has a pair of folded flanges, 28 and
30, formed thereon. Each of the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30,
extends along at least a portion of the length l of each of the
pair of sidewalls 14 and 16. The hollow receptacle 12 is capable of
holding multiple eggs in a stationary and spaced apart fashion. The
egg container 10 also includes a lid 56 sized and shaped to slide
between the pair of folded flanges, 28 and 30, and completely cover
the open top 24 of the hollow receptacle 10.
[0085] The method includes sliding the lid 56 in a direction away
from the second end wall 20 a sufficient distance to expose at
least one or more eggs. The egg container 10 is then flipped or
turned upside down to allow the one or more exposed eggs to fall
out into a person's hand. This method makes it less likely for a
person to crush an egg while trying to extract it which can happen
with a conventional egg carton. Alternatively, after the lid 56 is
slid away from the second end wall 20 of the hollow receptacle 12,
a person could reach into the egg container 10 with his or her hand
and grasp each egg for removal using his or her thumb and one or
more fingers. Normally, the thumb, index finger and middle finger
are used to remove an egg from the egg container 10. It should be
understood that the lid 56 can be partially slid away from the
second end wall 20 wherein only some of the eggs contained in the
egg container 10 are exposed. Alternatively, the lid 56 could be
completely slid back and/or be removed from the hollow receptacle
12. In this situation, all of the eggs retained in the egg
container 10 would be exposed.
[0086] The method further includes sliding the lid 56 back towards
the second end wall 20 of the hollow receptacle 12 and allowing the
pair of apertures 68, 68 to again engage with the pair of spaced
apart upwardly extending protrusions 48, 48. This action will cause
the lid 56 to close the open top 24 of the hollow receptacle 12. As
the pair of apertures 68, 68 engage with the pair of spaced apart
upwardly extending protrusions 48, 48, they will again lock the lid
56 to the hollow receptacle 12.
[0087] While the invention has been described in conjunction with
several specific embodiments, it is to be understood that many
alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to
those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description.
Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace all such
alternatives, modifications and variations which fall within the
spirit and scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *