PRODUCT PACKAGING WITH TEAR STRIP

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of product packaging, and in particular to product packages that have a locking end cap that is released by partial destruction of the package using a tear strip.

2. Background of the Related Art

[0002] Product packaging serves a number of different functions, including: protecting the packaged product from accidental damage, attractively displaying the packaged product and preventing theft or tampering. In addition, it is desirable for a package to be as inexpensive to manufacture as possible. Assignee's co-pending application, U.S. Patent Application No. 10/164,477 (filed on June 6, 2002), the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference, discloses one such improved design.

[0003] However, there is an ongoing need in the packaging industry for new package designs which can be more readily manufactured and require less material than conventional packaging and also provide tamper resistant features.

[0004] FR 2,666,566 discloses a packaging box having a lockable closure, the packaging box comprising a sleeve having overlapping end edges and a tab extending from an outermost end edge.

[0005] WO 2004/018301 discloses a package including a sleeve having locking tabs received in a channel of a rigid end cap.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Disclosed is a product package which includes a sleeve and at least one rigid end cap. The sleeve has longitudinally opposed first and second ends, the first end of the sleeve defining an opening and having at least two locking tabs extending therefrom. The first end of the sleeve also includes a tear strip positioned adjacent to the opening which has been formed using known techniques, such as, microperforation. Each locking tab includes a locking edge and is folded inwards into the opening. A rigid end cap is dimensioned to fit closely within the sleeve opening, the end cap including a rim that, when the end cap is inserted into the opening, engages the first end of the sleeve and prevents the end cap from being inserted further into the opening. The end cap also includes at least one channel for receiving the pair of locking tabs, the at least one channel having a ledge that engages the locking edge of each locking tab to prevent the end cap from being removed from the sleeve opening. The tear strip formed in the sleeve is adapted and configured such that pulling the tear strip allows the rigid end cap to be removed from the sleeve opening. The tear strip also includes a finger tab extending from the first end of the sleeve such that it is accessible to a user for extending a tearing force along the tear stip.

[0007] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the end cap can include a cavity shaped to receive an end of a product to be packaged. It is also contemplated that the end cap can include a plurality of cavities shaped to receive a product to be packaged.

[0008] In another aspect in further accordance with the invention, the locking tabs of the first end of the sleeve can be dimensioned and configured to releasably engage an exterior surface of the peripheral wall of the first end cap. It is also contemplated that the locking tabs of the first end of the sleeve can be adapted and configured for folding into the sleeve to releasably engage the peripheral wall of the first end cap.

[0009] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the sleeve and locking tabs can have a strength and resilience that combines with the dimensioning and angling of the ledges to produce a firm locking action when the locking tabs are engaged by the ledges. Each of the locking tabs and the channels can be shaped such that the end cap is twistable to a position in which the locking tabs are clear of the ledges, thereby releasing the end cap from the sleeve. Each of the locking tabs can be trapezoidal and have an acute vertex that rides up a side edge of the channel when the end cap is twisted relative to the sleeve, such that the end cap is released from the sleeve. It is also contemplated that the channel can have at least one ramped side edge, such that when the end cap is twisted relative to the sleeve, the locking tab rides up the ramped side edge, such that the end cap is released from the sleeve.

[0010] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, the channels and locking tabs can be shaped such that the end cap is prevented from twisting and releasing the end cap from the sleeve. The locking tabs and channels can be rectangular to prevent the locking tabs from riding up a side edge of the channel when the end cap is urged to twist relative to the sleeve, such that the end cap is prevented from being twisted and released from the sleeve.

[0011] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the sleeve can include a second end defining a second opening, and the package can further include a second locking tab and a second end cap. The second locking tab can extend from the second end and can be folded inward into the second opening, the second locking tab having a locking edge. The second end cap can have a substantially continuous outer surface dimensioned to fit closely within the second opening. The second end cap can further include a rim overhanging the outer surface such that, when the second end cap is inserted into the second opening, the rim engages the second sleeve end and prevents the second end cap from being inserted further into the second opening. The second end cap can further include a channel for receiving the second locking tab, the channel having a ledge that engages the locking edge of the second locking tab to prevent the second end cap from being removed from the second sleeve opening. It is also contemplated that the first and second end caps can each include a cavity shaped to receive an opposite end of a product to be packaged.

[0012] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, the sleeve can be defined by opposed first and second curved panels. The first and second curved panels can be connected to one another along lateral edges of the sleeve. The first and second curved panels can be integrally joined to one another along a first lateral edge of the sleeve. The first and second curved panels can also be affixed to one another along a second lateral edge of the sleeve.

[0013] The invention also includes a package having a sleeve, a first rigid end cap, and a second rigid end cap. The sleeve has longitudinally opposed first and second ends, the first and second ends of the sleeve each defining an opening and having at least two locking tabs extending therefrom. The first end of the sleeve further includes a tear strip positioned adjacent to the opening. Each locking tab includes a locking edge and can be folded inwards into the opening. The first rigid end cap is dimensioned to fit closely within the sleeve opening. The first end cap includes a rim that, when the first end cap is inserted into the first sleeve opening, engages the first end of the sleeve and prevents the first end cap from being inserted further into the first sleeve opening. The first end cap further includes at least one channel for receiving the pair of locking tabs in the first end of the sleeve, the at least one channel having a ledge that engages the locking edge of each locking tab to prevent the end first cap from being removed from the first sleeve opening. The second rigid end cap is dimensioned to fit closely within the second sleeve opening and can including a rim that, when the second end cap is inserted into the second sleeve opening, engages the second end of the sleeve and prevents the second end cap from being inserted further into the second sleeve opening. The second end cap also includes at least one channel for receiving the pair of locking tabs in the second end of the sleeve, the at least one channel having a ledge that engages the locking edge of each locking tab of the second end cap to prevent the second end cap from being removed from the second sleeve opening. The tear strip is adapted and configured such that pulling the tear strip allows the rigid end cap to be removed from the sleeve opening. It is also contemplated that each of the locking tabs of the first end of the sleeve and the channels of the first end cap can be shaped such that the first end cap is twistable to a position in which the locking tabs are clear of the ledges, thereby releasing the first end cap from the sleeve.

[0014] The invention also includes a method for fabricating a package. The method includes the steps of cutting and scoring a sleeve blank to create first and second panels, a glue flap extending from the first panel, locking tabs extending from each of the panels, and a tear strip proximate to one of the locking tabs. The method further includes folding the second panel over the first panel, folding the glue flap and affixing it to the second panel so the first and second panels form a sleeve, folding the locking tabs inward into the sleeve, and inserting a rigid end cap into a first end of the sleeve, the end cap including at least one channel having a ledge that engages a locking edge of each locking tab extending from the first end of the sleeve. The method also includes steps of loading a product into the sleeve and inserting a second rigid end cap into a second end of the sleeve, the second end cap including at least one channel having a ledge that engages a locking edge of each locking tab extending from a second end of the sleeve.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The presently disclosed embodiments will be further explained with reference to the attached drawings, wherein like structures are referred to by like numerals throughout the several views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, the emphasis having instead been generally placed upon illustrating the principles of the presently disclosed embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a product package constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] FIGS. 2 and 3 show front and rear views of the package shown in FIG. 1;

[0018] FIGS. 4 and 5 show left and right side views of the package shown in FIG. 1;

[0019] FIGS. 6 and 7 show top and bottom views of the package shown in FIG. 1;

[0020] FIGS. 8 and 9 show, respectively, elevational views of an upper and lower end cap according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] FIG. 10 shows a plan view of a blank for fabricating a sleeve according to an aspect of the invention;

[0022] FIG. 11 shows a plan view of the blank shown in FIG. 10, partially fabricated into a sleeve;

[0023] FIG. 12A shows a plan view of the blank shown in FIG. 10, fully assembled into a sleeve;

[0024] FIG. 12B shows a side view of the blank shown in FIG. 12A;

[0025] FIGS. 13A-D show a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of a locking mechanism according to an aspect of the invention;

[0026] FIG. 14 shows a cutaway view of a sleeve and end cap illustrating the operation of a locking mechanism according to an aspect of the invention;

[0027] FIG. 15 shows a cutaway view of a sleeve and upper and lower end caps illustrating the operation of a locking mechanism according to an aspect of the invention;

[0028] FIGS. 16A-D and 17A-D are a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of a release mechanism according to an aspect of the invention;

[0029] FIGS. 18A and 18B are diagrams illustrating the operation of the release mechanism illustrated in FIGS. 16A-D and 17A-D;

[0030] FIGS. 19A-D and 20A-D are a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of a release mechanism according to a further aspect of the invention;

[0031] FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of a package according to another aspect of the invention;

[0032] FIGS. 22 and 23 show front and rear views of the package shown in FIG. 21;

[0033] FIGS. 24 and 25 show left and rear side views of the package shown in FIG. 21;

[0034] FIGS. 26 and 27 show top and bottom views of the package shown in FIG. 21;

[0035] FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of a package according to another aspect of the invention;

[0036] FIGS. 29 and 30 show front and rear views of the package shown in FIG. 28;

[0037] FIGS. 31 and 32 show left and right side views of the package shown in FIG. 28; and

[0038] FIG. 33 shows a top view ofthe package shown in FIG. 28.

[0039] While the above-identified drawings set forth presently disclosed embodiments, other embodiments are also contemplated, as noted in the discussion. This disclosure presents illustrative embodiments by way of representation and not limitation. Numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art which fall within the scope and spirit of the principles of the presently disclosed embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0040] The presently disclosed embodiments are directed towards product packaging that includes, inter alia, a sleeve that has at least one end that is closed by inserting an end cap. In addition, the sleeve comprises a tear strip which allows a user to disengage the end cap from the sleeve. The tear strip is in communication with a tab wherein the tab is accessible to a user. Once the tear strip has been removed, a user may remove the end cap.

[0041] Depending upon the use for the package, the sleeve may be closed with two non-releasable locking caps, two releasable locking caps, or one non-releasable locking cap and one releasable locking cap. In addition, the sleeve may comprise a single tear strip located at a first opening or a first tear strip at a first opening and a second tear strip at a second opening.

[0042] The use of at least one tear strip may be desirable for a number of reasons. First, use of a tear strip allows for increased theft prevention. Use of the tear strip requires damage to the sleeve which is easier to detect by store personnel as opposed to the use of a twist offend cap. In addition, a customer may find a twist off end cap to be cumbersome if the product is too large As such, removal of the tear strip provides a helpful alternative to a twist off releasable cap.

[0043] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the presently disclosed product package 10. The package 10 includes a sleeve 12 having an upper opening at an upper end and a lower opening at a lower end. The sleeve comprises a tear strip 52 engaged to a tab 50. The tear strip 52 is a perforated section of the sleeve which facilitates tearing of the sleeve along the perforated section. The tear strip 52 is located in a position such that tearing along the perforation will allow for the release of the end cap. The mechanics of the end cap 14 will be discussed in detail below.

[0044] The tab 50 is accessible to a user so that the user may grab the tab 50 and exert a tearing force along the tear strip 52. Once the user has tom the tear strip 52 along substantially a desired length of the tear strip, the end cap 14 may be easily removed by a user. Those skilled in the art will recognize that any shape tab is within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0045] The sleeve 12 may suitably be fabricated from a sheet of see-through plastic material, such as PVC, APET, PETG, polylith, PLA or the like. The thickness of the sheet is selected based on a number of factors, including price and strength. The sheet should be thick enough to provide structural support, but thin enough to allow the sheet to be flexed and folded, as described herein.

[0046] As will be discussed in detail below, the sleeve 12 comprises a pair of locking tabs 18 adjacent to the upper opening. As the end cap 14 is pushed into the upper opening of the sleeve 12, the locking tabs 18 are secured in a channel 22 of the end cap 14. Depending on the length, position and number of locking tabs 18 relative to the channel 22, the end cap 14 may be a releasable locking mechanism or a non-releasable locking mechanism (will be discussed below). If a releasable locking mechanism, the end cap 14 may be released by applying a twisting motion to the end cap 14. Presently disclosed embodiments are directed towards the use of the tear strip 52 with either a releasable end cap or an unreleasable end cap. Tearing the tear strip 52 along the perforated edge allows for the user to remove an end cap 14 (either releasable or non-releasable) because once the tear strip has been ripped the user may easily disengage the locking tabs 18 from the channel 22 of the end cap 14. The tear strip 52 may be used in conjunction with a releasable end cap if the container 10 is too cumbersome to apply a twisting motion.

[0047] As stated, the sleeve 12 includes an upper pair of locking tabs 18 that are folded inwards into the interior of the sleeve 12 for securing the upper end cap 14, and a lower pair of locking tabs 20 that are folded inwards into the interior of the sleeve 12 for securing the lower end cap 16. As further described below, the upper end cap 14 includes a pair of channels 22 corresponding in position to the pair of upper locking tabs 18. The lower end cap 16 includes a single continuous channel 24 encircling the perimeter of the lower end cap 16.

[0048] As described below, different channel arrangements are used to create, respectively, a releasable locking mechanism and a non-releasable locking mechanism. FIG. 1 shows an embodiment wherein the upper end cap 14 is secured with a releasable locking mechanism in association with a tear strip 52 and the lower end cap 16 is secured with a non-releasable locking mechanism. In this embodiment, the upper end cap 14 may be released by twisting the upper end cap 14 within the sleeve 12. If a user finds the container too cumbersome too twist, the user may tear the tear strip 52 along the perforated edge in order to disengage the locking tabs 18 from the channel 22 and remove the end cap. In another embodiment, the upper end cap is a non-releasable end cap and the user must tear the tear strip along the perforated edge to remove the end cap. As shown in FIG. 1, the lower end cap 16 is not releasable, and cannot be removed without causing damage to the package 10. In an embodiment, the lower end cap may also be associated with an additional tear strip.

[0049] As further shown in FIG. 1, the top and bottom end caps 14 and 16 are provided with molded cavities 26 and 28 that are shaped to receive an item to be held in the package 10. It will be appreciated that cavities 26 and 28 may be freely modified to accommodate differently shaped items.

[0050] FIGS. 2 through 7 show additional views of the package 10 shown in FIG. 1. FIGS. 2 and 3 show, respectively, front and rear views of the package. FIGS. 4 and 5 show left and right side views of the package 10. FIGS. 6 and 7 show top and bottom views of the package 10.

[0051] FIGS. 8 and 9 show elevation views of the upper and lower end caps 14 and 16. Each end cap 14 and 16 is a rigid body that may suitably be fabricated, for example, using an injection molding technique. Suitable materials for the end caps include PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene.

[0052] The upper end cap 14 shown in FIG. 8, as mentioned above, provides a releasable locking mechanism for securing the end cap 14 to the sleeve. The releasable locking mechanism includes a pair of rectangular channels 22 on opposite sides of the end cap 14. The pair of channels 22 is positioned to receive a corresponding pair of locking tabs 18 extending from the sleeve 12. The upper side of each channel 22 is defined by a rim 30 that is dimensioned to be slightly larger than the upper opening of the sleeve 12, and to engage the upper sleeve end to prevent the end cap 14 from being inserted too far into the sleeve opening. The lower side of each channel 22 is defined by a ledge 34, which provides a surface for engaging a locking edge of each upper locking tab 18.

[0053] The lower end cap 16 shown in FIG. 9 provides a non-releasable locking mechanism for securing the lower end cap 16 in the lower opening of the sleeve 12. The non-releasable locking mechanism includes a single channel 24 encircling the end cap 16. The lower side of the channel 24 is defined by a rim 32 that is dimensioned to be larger than the bottom sleeve opening. The upper side of the channel 24 is defined by a ledge 36 that provides a surface for engaging a locked edge of each lower locking tab 20 extending from the sleeve 12.

[0054] The operation of the locking and release mechanisms is now described with respect to an exemplary container and exemplary fabrication technique. It will be apparent that the described container and fabrication technique may be modified without departing from the spirit of the invention. FIG. 10 shows a plan view of a blank 100 for forming a sleeve according to an aspect of the invention. The blank 100 is die cut from a sheet of suitable material, such as PVC, APET, or PETG. If desired, textual or graphic matter may be printed directly onto the blank using a high-speed printing process.

[0055] A series of score lines 102 is fabricated into the blank 100 to divide the blank into a number of panels and tabs. The blank 100 includes a first panel 104 and a second panel 106 that are folded towards each other to form the body of the finished sleeve. A glue flap 108 extends upward from the first panel 104, opposite the second panel 106, and is used to attach the outside edges ofthe first and second panels 104 and 106 to each other. As shown, the tear strip 52 and tab 50 are manufactured on the first panel 104.

[0056] Extending from the right side of each of the first and second panels 104 and 106 is a releasable locking tab 110 and 112. According to an aspect of the invention, the releasable locking tabs 110 and 112 are trapezoidal in shape. As discussed below, other shapes may be used for the releasable locking tabs 110 and 112.

[0057] Non-releasable locking tabs 114 and 116 extend from the left side of the first and second panels 104 and 106. According to an aspect ofthe invention, the non-releasable locking tabs 114 and 116 are rectangular in shape. Each of the locking tabs 110 includes a respective locking edge 120, 122, 124 and 126 that, as described below, engages a ledge in an end cap, such as ledge 156 in end cap 150 illustrated in FIGS. 13A-D and described below, to lock the end caps in position in the sleeve ends.

[0058] It will be seen that when the second panel 106 is folded over the first panel 104, locking tabs 112 and 116 will line up with locking tabs 110 and 114. However, other orientations for the locking tabs 110, 112, 114 and 116 may also be used without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0059] In fabricating a finished sleeve from the blank 100, the second panel 106 is folded over the first panel 104. The partially folded blank 100 is shown in FIG. 11. The glue flap 108 is then folded over the second panel 106, and a suitable technique is employed to cause the glue flap 108 to adhere to the second panel 106 at the cross-hatched regions 128 and 130. It will be seen that the bonding of the glue flap 108 to the second panel 106 creates a tube with openings at the left and right of the blank 100.

[0060] Prior to the attachment of the end caps, the locking tabs 110, 112, 114 and 116 are folded inward towards the interior of the sleeve. FIG. 12A shows a plan view of the finished sleeve 100, and FIG. 12B, not drawn to scale, shows a right side view of the sleeve 100. The sleeve 100 may be readily popped opened for insertion ofthe end caps by applying gentle pressure to the sleeve in the direction of the arrows 132 shown in FIG. 12B.

[0061] Depending on the dimensions of the finished sleeve 100, it would be possible for a worker to hold the sleeve 100 in one hand, using the thumb and fingers to apply pressure to the side edges of the sleeve 100. The worker could then pop the sleeve 100 open, and use the other hand to install an end cap into one of the two sleeve openings. Once the first end cap has been installed, the package is relatively stable, and can be stood on end, with the installed end cap acting as a base. Product can then be loaded through the other opening. If necessary, further pressure can be applied to the side edges ofthe sleeve to open the other opening for loading of the product and installation of the second end cap. The above described manual operations may also be performed by machine.

[0062] Once the package has been loaded and closed, it would still be possible to adjust or rework the contents of the package by using the twist-off release mechanism described below to remove the releasable end cap without damaging the sleeve.

[0063] As mentioned above, it would also be possible to use releasable end caps at both openings of the sleeve, or non-releasable end caps at both openings. Also, in a container having one releasable end cap and one non-releasable end cap, it would be possible to use the releasable cap as the top cap or the bottom cap, as desired.

[0064] FIGS. 13A-D are cross section diagrams of an exemplary end cap 150 and sleeve end 170 illustrating the operation of a locking mechanism according to an aspect of the invention. The drawing of sleeve end 170 includes a broken line 172, which represents the perimeter of the sleeve opening.

[0065] As described above, the sleeve end 170 includes a pair of locking tabs 174. The locking tabs 174 extend upward from the sleeve 176. Prior to the installation of the end cap 150, the locking tabs 174 are folded into the sleeve opening, towards the inner surface of the sleeve 176. However, because of the resilience of the material used to fabricate the sleeve 176 and locking tabs 174, the locking tabs 174 have a tendency to unfold slightly. The slight unfolding of the locking tabs 174 has been exaggerated in FIGS. 13A-D for purposes of illustration. The unfolding of the locking tabs 174 is useful in ensuring a firm locking action.

[0066] The locking cap 150 includes a channel 152 at each side corresponding in position to the locking tabs 174. The channels 152 are not drawn to scale. As discussed above, in a non-releasable end cap, a single channel encircles the perimeter of the end cap. In a releasable end cap, separate channels are provided, corresponding in position to each of the locking tabs 174. However, in either type of end cap, the initial locking action is substantially similar.

[0067] The upper boundary of the channel 152 is defined by a rim 154 that, when the end cap 150 is seated in the sleeve end 170, overhangs the sleeve end 170 to prevent the end cap 150 from being further inserted into the sleeve end. The channel 152 further includes a ledge 156 that engages a locking edge of each of the locking tabs 174. Although the channel 152 is shown as having a rectangular profile, other channel profiles may also be used. For example, it may be desirable for the ledge to define a more acute angle, or for the channel to be deeper. The ledge face 158 is dimensioned and shaped to fit closely within the sleeve.

[0068] FIG. 13B shows the end cap 150 that has been partially inserted into the sleeve end 170. As shown in FIG. 13B, the bottom circumference of the end cap 150 urges the locking tabs 174 downward, towards the inner walls of the sleeve 176. In FIG. 13C, as the end cap 150 continues to be advanced downward, the locking tabs 174 are pressed against the inner walls of the sleeve 176. In FIG. 13D, when the end cap 150 reaches its final position, the locking tabs 174, because of their resiliency, tend to unfold slightly, causing the locking tabs 174 to open up into the channel 152. The slight unfolding of the locking tabs 174 causes the locking edges of the locking tabs 174 to engage the ledge surface 156, thereby preventing the end cap from being pulled upward out of the sleeve opening. Where the end caps have a convexly curved outer perimeter, the insertion of the end cap into the sleeve causes corresponding curves to form in the sleeve 176 and locking tabs 174. This curvature tends to increase the strength of the locking tabs 174.

[0069] FIGS. 14 and 15 show cutaway views of a package 200 according to an aspect of the invention. FIG. 14 shows a close-up view of a portion of the package 200 illustrating a single locking tab 202 seated in a channel 204. FIG. 15 shows a cutaway of the whole package 200 illustrating a pair of lower locking tabs 202 and a pair of upper locking tabs 206.

[0070] FIGS. 16A-D and 17A-D illustrate the operation of a release mechanism 250 according to an aspect of the invention. FIG. 16A shows a diagram of a releasable locking tab 252 seated within a rectangular channel 254 in a finished package. For the purposes of discussion, an upper end cap is shown. As discussed above, the upper edge of the channel 254 is defined by the end cap rim, and the lower edge of the channel is defined by a ledge. The left and right edges of the channel are defined by surfaces 256 that are substantially continuous with the ledge face.

[0071] As described above, the releasable locking tab 252 has a trapezoidal shape. Thus, as the locking tab 252 is urged against a side edge 258 of the channel, it will be seen that an acute vertex 260 is presented to the side edge 258. The acute vertex 260 allows the locking tab 252 to ride up the side edge 258 of the channel 254 and onto surface 256, starting with the point of the vertex 260. The movement of the locking tab 252 onto surface 256 can be seen in FIGS. 17A-D.

[0072] Because the sleeve is flexible and resilient, the end cap can be freely twisted within the sleeve opening, even when the end cap does not have a circular perimeter. Twisting the end cap causes a movement of the channel relative to the tab. As described above, this movement causes the locking tab to ride up onto a surface next to the channel, causing the locking tab to become disengaged from the channel and ledge. The disengagement of the locking mechanism is illustrated in FIGS. 18A and 18B. In FIG. 18A, each locking tab 252 is seated in a channel 254. In FIG. 18B, after the locking cap 262 has been twisted, the locking tabs 252 are no longer in the channels 254. The end cap can now be removed. The twist angle required to disengage the end cap 262 from the sleeve 264 can be adjusted by adjusting the dimensions of the channels 254, the locking tabs 252, or both.

[0073] It would be possible to create a one-way release mechanism, in which the end cap can be released only by twisting it in one direction. The one-way release mechanism could be accomplished, for example, by using a locking tab having a first side with an acute vertex, and a second side with square vertices. It would be difficult, if not impossible, to twist the end cap off in the direction of the square vertices.

[0074] FIGS. 19A-D and FIG. 20A-D illustrate an alternative release mechanism. According to this aspect of the invention, a rectangular locking tab 272 may be used. As shown in FIGS. 20A-D, one side of the channel 274 is provided with a ramp 276 leading up to surface 278. When the end cap is twisted, the locking tab 272 rides up the ramp 276 and onto surface 278 to disengage the locking mechanism. In this example, only one ramp 276 is provided. Thus, the locking mechanism can only be released by twisting the end cap in the direction of the ramp 276. If desired, a second ramp can be added to the other side of the channel 274 to allow the locking mechanism to be released by twisting the end cap in either direction.

[0075] It should be noted that it would be possible to use other configurations of locking tabs and channels without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, it would be possible to use more than two locking tabs per opening. Also, different shapes may be used for the end caps and the sleeve.

[0076] FIGS. 21 through 27 show a product package 300 according to another aspect of the invention. In this package 300, a releasable end cap 302 is provided at the bottom end of sleeve 304, and a non-releasable cap 306 is provided at the top of the sleeve. The end caps 302 and 306 have been shaped to receive a different product, such as a bottle containing lotion or fragrance. FIGS. 22 and 23 show front and rear views of the package 300. FIGS. 24 and 25 show left and right side views. FIGS. 26 and 27 show top and bottom views of the package 300.

[0077] FIGS. 28 through 33 show another package 350 according to an aspect of the invention. FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of the package 350. As shown in FIG. 28, the channels 352 in the end caps 354 are not rectangular, but instead are angled. FIGS. 29 and 30 show front and rear views of the package. FIGS. 31 and 32 show left and right side views, and FIG. 20 shows a top view.

[0078] While the foregoing description includes details which will enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should be recognized that the description is illustrative in nature and that many modifications and variations thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of these teachings. It is accordingly intended that the invention herein be defined solely by the claims appended hereto and that the claims be interpreted as broadly as permitted by the prior art.

[0079] All patents, patent applications, and published references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. It will be appreciated that various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

1. A package (10), comprising:

a sleeve (12) having longitudinally opposed first and second ends, the first end of the sleeve defining an opening and having at least two locking tabs (18; 110, 112) extending therefrom, the first end of the sleeve further including a tear strip (52) positioned adjacent to the opening, each locking tab including a locking edge and being folded inwards into the opening;

a rigid end cap (14) dimensioned to fit closely within the sleeve opening, the end cap including a rim (30) that, when the end cap is inserted into the opening, engages the first end of the sleeve and prevents the end cap from being inserted further into the opening, the end cap including at least one channel (22) for receiving the pair of locking tabs, the at least one channel having a ledge (34) that engages the locking edge of each locking tab to prevent the end cap from being removed from the sleeve opening; and

wherein the tear strip is adapted and configured such that pulling the tear strip allows the rigid end cap to be removed from the sleeve opening, characterised by the tear strip being engaged to a tab extending (50) from the first end of the sleeve such that it is accessible to a user for exerting a tearing force along the tear strip.

2. A package as recited in claim 1, wherein the end cap includes one or more cavities (26, 28) shaped to receive an end of a product to be packaged.

3. A package as recited in any preceding claim, wherein the tear strip includes a finger tab accessible to a user when opening the package.

4. A package as recited in any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve and locking tabs have a strength and resilience that combines with the dimensioning and angling of the ledges to produce a firm locking action when the locking tabs are engaged by the ledges, each of the locking tabs and the channels being shaped such that the end cap is twistable to a position in which the locking tabs are clear of the ledges, thereby releasing the end cap from the sleeve.

5. A package as recited in claim 4, wherein each of the locking tabs is trapezoidal and has an acute vertex (260) that rides up a side edge (258) of the channel when the end cap is twisted relative to the sleeve, such that the end cap is released from the sleeve.

6. A package as recited in either 4 or claim 5, wherein the channel has at least one ramped side edge (276), such that when the end cap is twisted relative to the sleeve, the locking tab rides up the ramped side edge, such that the end cap is released from the sleeve.

7. A package as recited in any preceding claim, wherein the channels and locking tabs are shaped such that the end cap is prevented from twisting and releasing the end cap from the sleeve.

8. A package as recited in claim 7, wherein the locking tabs and channels are rectangular to prevent the locking tabs from riding up a side edge of the channel when the end cap is urged to twist relative to the sleeve, such that the end cap is prevented from being twisted and released from the sleeve.

9. A package as recited in any preceding claim, wherein the locking tabs of the first end of the sleeve are dimensioned and configured to releasably engage an exterior surface of the peripheral wall of the first end cap.

10. A package as recited in any preceding claim, wherein the locking tabs of the first end of the sleeve are adapted and configured for folding into the sleeve to releasably engage the peripheral wall of the first end cap.

11. A package as recited in any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve includes a second end defining a second opening, and wherein the package further comprises:

a second locking tab (20; 114, 116) extending from the second end and folded inward into
the second opening, the second locking tab having a locking edge; and

a second end cap (16) having a substantially continuous outer surface dimensioned to fit closely within the second opening, the second end cap including a rim (32) overhanging the outer surface such that, when the second end cap is inserted into the second opening, the rim engages the second sleeve end and prevents the second end cap from being inserted further into the second opening, the second end cap including a channel (24) for receiving the second locking tab, the channel having a ledge (36) that engages the locking edge of the second locking tab to prevent the second end cap from being removed from the second sleeve opening.

12. A package as recited in claim 11, wherein the first and second end caps each include a cavity shaped to receive an opposite end of a product to be packaged.

13. A package as recited in claim 11, wherein the sleeve is defined by opposed first and second curved panels.

14. A package as recited in claim 13, wherein the first and second curved panels are connected to one another along lateral edges of the sleeve.

15. A package as recited in claim 14, wherein the first and second curved panels are integrally joined to one another along a first lateral edge of the sleeve.

16. A package as recited in claim 15, wherein the first and second curved panels are affixed to one another along a second lateral edge of the sleeve.

17. A method for fabricating a package according to claim 1, comprising the steps of:

a) cutting and scoring a sleeve blank to create first and second panels, a glue flap extending from the first panel, locking tabs extending from each of the panels, and a tear strip proximate to one of the locking tabs;

b) folding the second panel over the first panel;

c) folding the glue flap and affixing it to the second panel, the first and second panels forming a sleeve;

d) folding the locking tabs inward into the sleeve;

e) inserting a rigid end cap into a first end of the sleeve, the end cap including at least one channel having a ledge that engages a locking edge of each locking tab extending from the first end of the sleeve;

f) loading a product into the sleeve; and

g) inserting a second rigid end cap into a second end of the sleeve, the second end cap including at least one channel having a ledge that engages a locking edge of each locking tab extending from a second end of the sleeve.

Ansprüche

1. Verpackung (10), die umfasst:

eine Hülse (12), die in Längsrichtung entgegengesetzte erste und zweite Enden aufweist, wobei das erste Ende der Hülse eine Öffnung definiert und wenigstens zwei Verriegelungslaschen (18; 110, 112) aufweist, die sich hiervon erstrecken, und das erste Ende der Hülse weiterhin einen Abreißstreifen(52) umfasst, der benachbart zu der Öffnung angeordnet ist, wobei jede Verriegelungslasche eine Verriegelungskante beinhaltet und nach innen in die Öffnung gefaltet ist;

eine steife Endkappe (14), die so dimensioniert ist, um passgenau in die Hülsenöffnung zu passen, wobei die Endkappe einen Rand (30) beinhaltet, der, wenn die Endkappe in die Öffnung eingeführt wird, das erste Ende der Hülse in Eingriff nimmt und verhindert, dass die Endkappe weiter in die Öffnung eingeführt wird, wobei die Endkappe wenigstens einem Kanal (22) zum Aufnehmen des Paares der Verriegelungslaschen beinhaltet, der wenigstens eine Kanal eine Leiste (34) aufweist, der die Verriegelungskante der Verriegelungslasche in Eingriff nimmt, um zu verhindern, dass die Endkappe aus der Hülsenöffnung entfernt wird; und

wobei der Abreißstreifen so ausgebildet und konfiguriert ist, dass es der steifen Endkappe ermöglicht wird, aus der Schachtelhülsenöffnung entfernt zu werden, wenn an dem Abreißstreifen gezogen wird, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der in Eingriff genommene Abreißstreifen sich als Lasche (50) von dem ersten Ende der Hülse derart erstreckt, dass sie für einen Benutzer zum Anwenden einer Abreißkraft entlang des Abreißstreifens zugänglich ist.

2. Verpackung gemäß Anspruch 1, wobei die Endkappe eine oder mehrere Kavitäten (26, 28) beinhaltet, die so geformt sind, um ein Ende eines zu verpackenden Gegenstands aufzunehmen.

3. Verpackung gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, wobei der Abreißstreifen eine Fingerlasche beinhaltet, die für einen Benutzer beim Öffnen der Verpackung zugänglich ist.

4. Verpackung gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, wobei die Hülse und die Verriegelungslaschen eine Festigkeit und Elastizität aufweisen, die in Kombination mit der Dimensionierung und dem Abwinkeln der Leisten eine feste Verriegelungsaktion erzeugen, wenn die Verriegelungslaschen durch die Leisten in Eingriff genommen werden, wobei jede Verriegelungslasche und jeder Kanal so geformt sind, dass die Endkappe in eine Position drehbar ist, in der die Verriegelungslaschen frei von den Leisten sind, und dadurch die Endkappe von der Hülse freigegeben wird.

5. Verpackung gemäß Anspruch 4, wobei jede Verriegelungslasche trapezförmig ist und einen spitzen Scheitelpunkt (260) aufweist, der auf einer Seitenkante (258) des Kanals liegt, wenn die Endkappe relativ zu der Hülse derart verdreht wird, dass die Endkappe von der Hülse freigegeben wird.

6. Verpackung gemäß entweder Anspruch 4 oder 5, wobei der Kanal wenigstens eine abgeschrägte Seitenkante (276) aufweist, derart, dass, wenn die Endkappe relativ zu der Hülse verdreht wird, die Verriegelungslasche derart auf der abgeschrägten Seitenkante liegt, dass die Endkappe von der Hülse freigegeben wird.

7. Verpackung gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, wobei die Kanäle und die Verriegelungslaschen derart geformt sind, dass die Endkappe daran gehindert wird sich zu drehen und die Endkappe von der Hülse freizugeben.

8. Verpackung gemäß Anspruch 7, wobei die Verriegelungslaschen und die Kanäle rechteckig sind, um die Verriegelungslaschen daran zu hindern auf einer Seitenkante des Kanals zu liegen, wenn die Endkappe gezwungen wird, sich relativ zur Hülse zu verdrehen, derart, dass die Endkappe daran gehindert wird, verdreht und von der Hülse freigegeben zu werden.

9. Verpackung gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, wobei die Verriegelungslaschen des ersten Endes der Hülse so dimensioniert und konfiguriert sind, um eine Außenfläche der Umfangswand der ersten Endkappe lösbar in Eingriff zu nehmen.

10. Verpackung gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, wobei die Verriegelungslaschen des ersten Hülsenendes so angepasst und konfiguriert sind, um in die Hülse gefaltet zu werden, und die Umfangswand der ersten Endkappe lösbar in Eingriff zu nehmen.

11. Verpackung gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, wobei die Hülse ein zweites Ende beinhaltet, das eine zweite Öffnung definiert, und wobei die Verpackung weiterhin umfasst:

eine zweite Verriegelungslasche (20; 114, 116), die sich von dem zweiten Ende erstreckt und nach innen in die zweite Öffnung gefaltet wird, und wobei die zweite Verriegelungslasche eine Verriegelungskante aufweist; und

eine zweite Endkappe (16), die eine im Wesentlichen kontinuierliche Außenfläche aufweist, die so dimensioniert ist, um passgenau in die zweite Öffnung zu passen, und wobei die zweite Endkappe einen Rand (32) beinhaltet, der über die Außenfläche hinausragt, derart, dass, wenn die zweite Endkappe in die zweite Öffnung eingefügt wird, der Rand das zweite Hülsenende in Eingriff nimmt und verhindert, dass die zweite Endkappe weiter in die zweite Öffnung eingeführt wird, wobei die zweite Endkappe einen Kanal (24) zum Aufnehmen der zweiten Verriegelungslasche beinhaltet, wobei der Kanal eine Leiste (36) aufweist, die die Verriegelungskante der zweiten Vernegelungslasche in Eingriff nimmt, um die zweite Endkappe daran zu hindern, von der zweiten Hülsenöffnung entfernt zu werden.

12. Verpackung gemäß Anspruch 11, wobei die erste und zweite Endkappe jeweils eine Kavität beinhaltet, die so geformt ist, um ein entgegengesetztes Ende eines zu verpackenden Gegenstandes aufzunehmen.

13. Verpackung gemäß Anspruch 11, wobei die Hülse durch entgegengesetzte erste und zweite jeweils gekrümmte Wandflächen definiert ist.

14. Verpackung gemäß Anspruch 13, wobei die erste und zweite gekrümmte Wandfläche jeweils entlang seitlicher Kanten der Hülse verbunden sind.

15. Verpackung gemäß Anspruch 14, wobei die erste und zweite gekrümmte Wandfläche integral miteinander entlang einer ersten Seitenkante der Hülse verbunden sind.

16. Verpackung gemäß Anspruch 15, wobei die erste und zweite gekrümmte Wandfläche miteinander entlang einer zweiten Seitenkante der Hülse miteinander befestigt sind.

17. Verfahren zur Herstellung einer Verpackung gemäß Anspruch 1, das die Schritte umfasst:

a) Schneiden und Ritzen eines Hülsenzuschnitts, um erste und zweite Wandflächen, eine Klebelasche, die sich von der ersten Wandfläche erstreckt, Verriegelungslaschen, die sich von jeder Wandfläche erstrecken, und einen Abreißstreifen, der proximal zu einer der Verriegelungslaschen ist, zu erzeugen;

b) Falten der zweiten Wandfläche über die erste Wandfläche;

c) Falten und Befestigen der Klebelasche an der zweiten Wandfläche, so dass die erste und zweite Wandfläche eine Hülse ausbilden;

d) Falten der Verriegelungslaschen in das Innere der Hülse;

e) Einführen einer starren Endkappe in ein erstes Ende der Hülse, wobei die Endkappe wenigstens einem Kanal beinhaltet, der eine Leiste aufweist, die eine Verriegelungskante jeder Verriegelungslasche, die sich von dem ersten Ende der Hülse erstreckt, in Eingriff nimmt;

f) Einlegen eines Gegenstands in die Hülse, und

g) Einfügen einer zweiten steife Endkappe in ein zweites Ende der Hülse, wobei die zweite Endkappe wenigstens einen Kanal beinhaltet, der eine Leiste aufweist, die eine Verriegelungskante jeder Verriegelungslasche, die sich von einem zweiten Ende der Hülse erstreckt, in Eingriff nimmt.

Revendications

1. Emballage (10) comprenant :

une pochette (12) ayant des première et deuxième extrémités longitudinalement opposées, la première extrémité de la pochette définissant une ouverture et comportant au moins deux pattes de verrouillage (18 ; 110, 112) s'étendant depuis celle-ci, la première extrémité de la pochette comprenant en outre une bande à déchirer (52) en position adjacente à l'ouverture, chaque patte de verrouillage comprenant un bord de verrouillage et étant pliée vers l'intérieur dans l'ouverture ;

un couvercle d'extrémité rigide (14) dimensionné pour être logé de façon serrée dans l'ouverture de pochette, le couvercle d'extrémité comprenant un bord (30) qui, quand le couvercle d'extrémité est inséré dans l'ouverture, se met en contact avec la première extrémité de la pochette et empêche le couvercle d'extrémité d'être inséré davantage dans l'ouverture, le couvercle d'extrémité comprenant au moins un canal (22) destiné à recevoir la paire de pattes de verrouillage, ledit au moins un canal comportant un rebord (34) qui se met en contact avec le bord de verrouillage de chaque patte de verrouillage pour empêcher le couvercle d'extrémité d'être retiré de l'ouverture de pochette ; et

dans lequel la bande à déchirer est adaptée et configurée de telle manière qu'une traction sur la bande à déchirer permet de retirer le couvercle d'extrémité rigide de l'ouverture de pochette, caractérisé en ce que la bande à déchirer est couplée à une patte (50) s'étendant depuis la première extrémité de la pochette, de manière telle qu'elle est accessible à un utilisateur pour exercer une force de déchirement le long de la bande à déchirer.

2. Emballage selon la revendication 1, dans lequel le couvercle d'extrémité comprend une ou plusieurs cavités (26, 28) ayant une forme prévue pour recevoir une extrémité d'un produit à emballer.

3. Emballage selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel la bande à déchirer comprend une patte pour doigt accessible à un utilisateur pour ouvrir l'emballage.

4. Emballage selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel la pochette et les pattes de verrouillage ont une résistance et une résilience qui se combinent avec le dimensionnement et l'inclinaison des rebords pour produire une action de verrouillage ferme quand les pattes de verrouillage sont accrochées par les rebords, chacune des pattes de verrouillage et les canaux ayant une forme telle que le couvercle d'extrémité peut être tordu pour être mis dans une position dans laquelle les pattes de verrouillage sont écartées des rebords, ce qui libère le couvercle d'extrémité de la pochette.

5. Emballage selon la revendication 4, dans lequel chacune des pattes de verrouillage est trapézoïdale et a un sommet aigu (260) qui monte sur un bord latéral (258) du canal quand le couvercle d'extrémité est tordu par rapport à la pochette, de sorte que le couvercle d'extrémité est libéré de la pochette.

6. Emballage selon la revendication 4 ou 5, dans lequel le canal a au moins un bord latéral incliné (276), de sorte que lorsque le couvercle d'extrémité est tordu par rapport à la pochette, la patte de verrouillage monte sur le bord latéral incliné, de sorte que le couvercle d'extrémité est libéré de la pochette.

7. Emballage selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel les canaux et les pattes de verrouillage ont une forme prévue pour empêcher le couvercle d'extrémité de se tordre et de se libérer de la pochette.

8. Emballage selon la revendication 7, dans lequel les pattes de verrouillage et les canaux sont rectangulaires pour empêcher les pattes de verrouillage de monter sur un bord latéral du canal quand le couvercle d'extrémité est poussé pour se tordre par rapport à la pochette, de sorte que le couvercle d'extrémité est empêché d'être tordu et libéré de la pochette.

9. Emballage selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel les pattes de verrouillage de la première extrémité de la pochette sont dimensionnées et configurées pour se mettre en prise de façon libérable avec une surface extérieure de la paroi périphérique du couvercle de première extrémité.

10. Emballage selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel les pattes de verrouillage de la première extrémité de la pochette sont adaptées et configurées pour se plier dans la pochette afin de se mettre en prise de façon libérable avec la paroi périphérique du couvercle de première extrémité.

11. Emballage selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel la pochette comprend une deuxième extrémité définissant une deuxième ouverture, et dans lequel l'emballage comprend en outre :

une deuxième patte de verrouillage (20 ; 114, 116) s'étendant depuis la deuxième extrémité et pliée vers l'intérieur dans la deuxième ouverture, la deuxième patte de verrouillage comportant un bord de verrouillage ; et

un deuxième couvercle d'extrémité (16) ayant une surface extérieure substantiellement continue, dimensionnée pour se loger de façon serrée dans la deuxième ouverture, le deuxième couvercle d'extrémité comprenant un bord (32) situé au-dessus de la surface extérieure de telle manière que, quand le deuxième couvercle d'extrémité est inséré dans la deuxième ouverture, le bord vient en contact avec la deuxième extrémité de pochette et empêche le deuxième couvercle d'extrémité d'être inséré davantage dans la deuxième ouverture, le deuxième couvercle d'extrémité comprenant un canal (24) destiné à recevoir la deuxième patte de verrouillage, le canal comportant un rebord (36) qui vient en contact avec le bord de verrouillage de la deuxième patte de verrouillage pour empêcher le deuxième couvercle d'extrémité d'être retiré de la deuxième ouverture de pochette.

12. Emballage selon la revendication 11, dans lequel les premier et deuxième couvercles d'extrémité comprennent chacun une cavité ayant une forme prévue pour recevoir une extrémité opposée d'un produit à emballer.

13. Emballage selon la revendication 11, dans lequel la pochette est définie par des premier et deuxième panneaux courbés opposés.

14. Emballage selon la revendication 13, dans lequel les premier et deuxième panneaux courbés sont connectés entre eux le long des bords latéraux de la pochette.

15. Emballage selon la revendication 14, dans lequel les premier et deuxième panneaux courbés sont liés d'un seul tenant entre eux le long d'un premier bord latéral de la pochette.

16. Emballage selon la revendication 15, dans lequel les premier et deuxième panneaux courbés sont fixés l'un à l'autre le long d'un deuxième bord latéral de la pochette.

17. Procédé de fabrication d'un emballage selon la revendication 1, comprenant les étapes suivantes :

a) couper et encocher une découpe de pochette pour créer des premier et deuxième panneaux, un rabat de colle s'étendant depuis le premier panneau, des pattes de verrouillage s'étendant depuis chacun des panneaux, et une bande à déchirer à proximité de l'une des pattes de verrouillage ;

b) plier le deuxième panneau sur le premier panneau ;

c) plier le rabat de colle et le fixer sur le deuxième panneau, les premier et deuxième panneaux formant une pochette ;

d) replier les pattes de verrouillage vers l'intérieur, dans la pochette ;

e) insérer un couvercle d'extrémité rigide dans une première extrémité de la pochette, le couvercle d'extrémité comprenant au moins un canal ayant un rebord qui vient en contact avec un bord de verrouillage de chaque patte de verrouillage s'étendant depuis la première extrémité de la pochette ;

f) introduire un produit dans la pochette ; et

g) insérer un deuxième couvercle d'extrémité dans une deuxième extrémité de la pochette, le deuxième couvercle d'extrémité comprenant au moins un canal ayant un rebord qui vient en contact avec un bord de verrouillage de chaque patte de verrouillage s'étendant depuis une deuxième extrémité de la pochette.

Drawing