MX2014012874A - Consumer product package. - Google Patents

Abstract

A consumer product package comprising a tub (372) comprising a base and a perimeter wall defining a cavity, the base comprising at least two projections (373, 374) extending from the base within the cavity, the at least two projections (373, 374) spaced apart from the perimeter wall; and a consumer product disposed within the cavity such that each of the at least two projections define a recessed portion to receive the consumer product, wherein the base comprises a secondary projection (376) having a height different than a height of each of the at least two projections (373, 374), the secondary projection free of contact from the consumer product.

Description

PACKAGING FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to display packages for consumer products.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Bubble-type packaging is popular for storing and displaying items for sale. The two primary components of a bubble-type package are the cavity or void made of a moldable material (eg, plastic) and a lid (eg, cardboard or plastic). The cavity or hollow formed contain the product and the lid is hermetically sealed on the product that is inside the cavity. Other types of bubble-type packaging may consist of packaging with cardboard sheets, where the products are contained between a transparent preformed plastic sheet and cardboard (eg, polyvinyl chloride). The consumer can easily examine the product through transparent plastic. The plastic cover is formed in a vacuum around a mold in such a way that it can comfortably contain the article. The cardboard can be bright colors and have a design suitable for the item it contains. The preformed plastic is fixed to the cardboard board with heat and pressure to activate an adhesive (heat seal coating) which is on the bubble type plate. The adhesive is strong enough for the package to hang from a dowel, and weak enough so that it can be easily opened. The cardboard board can also have a perforated window that allows access. A safer packaging is the so-called 'clam type'.

It is used, generally, to prevent theft of packaging with small items of great value such as consumer electronics. It consists of two sheets of preformed plastic or a sheet folded on itself and cast at the edges. They are designed, usually, in such a way that they are difficult to open manually, to prevent the content from being altered. A pair of scissors or a sharp knife is often required to open them. Care must be taken to open some of these packages safely.

Bubble-type packages are typically thermoformed. Thermoforming is a manufacturing process that involves heating a plastic sheet until it reaches a forming temperature that allows it to be folded, shaped into a specific mold and cut to create a usable product. The sheet (or film, in the case of thinner grades and certain types of materials) is heated in an oven until it reaches a temperature high enough to stretch it inside or on a mold, and it is cooled until it reaches the finished form . For large volume applications, very large production machines are used to heat and shape the plastic sheet and cut the formed parts of the sheet in a continuous high speed process. The machines are capable of producing several thousand finished parts per hour according to the size of the machine and the mold, and the size of the parts to which they are shaped.

Consumers are asking for environmentally friendly changes in the packaging of consumer products, such as the reduction in the use of plastic and other non-renewable materials. Many consumers are concerned about the environmental impact of packaging. Researchers believe that global ecological initiatives have strongly influenced this attitude in the consumer. Researchers also believe that this new consumer attitude will continue to pressure packaging manufacturers to find packaging alternatives that respect the environment. Typical plastics take an extended period of time to become compost (decompose) in landfills. The new packaging materials that respect the environment are made of renewable materials that can be grown quickly (unlike most trees). The renewable materials can be recyclable and / or biodegradable. Various plastics alternatives have been developed for thermoformed packaging and bubble trays such as cardboard and renewable paper fiber. Despite the environmental advantages of these materials, current manufacturing processes (eg, thermoforming) often limit the design and functionality of the final packaging. For example, bubble-type packaging may require multiple angular sides due to the requirements of the draft angle to remove the package from a mold or tool during manufacture. In another example, fiber trays with multiple demolding angles and / or reverse demolding areas are difficult to feed, automatically, on automated packaging machines, among others, because the surface energy of a fiber tray tends to adhere the trays while the walls of the fiber tray come into contact during stacking, in this way, it hinders the disengagement of the trays. It requires, then, a packaging that respects the environment that is profitable, easier and faster to manufacture, and / or easier and faster to assemble with more precision.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION One aspect of the present invention provides a package for consumer product comprising a package comprising a base and a perimeter wall defining a cavity. The base comprises at least two projections extending from the base inside the cavity, at least two projections remote from the perimeter wall. The packaging for consumer products also includes a consumer product disposed within the cavity so that each of at least two projections define a recessed portion for housing the consumer product, wherein the base comprises a secondary projection having a different height than a height of each of minus two projections, the secondary projection free of contact of the consumer product.

The above aspect may include any one or more of the following characteristics. The secondary projection can be formed, integrally, with the base. The secondary projection can comprise a plurality of secondary projections, a height of each of the secondary projections is equal in height. Each of the pluralities of the secondary projections can move away from each other. The packaging may further comprise a top surface and the perimeter wall may comprise an outer surface, the outer surface comprising opposite side walls, each forming an angle not perpendicular to the top surface. The opposite side walls can be, generally, parallel. An interior side wall of the perimeter wall may be non-linear. One side of the perimeter wall may comprise a recessed portion having a lower height than a top surface of the packaging. Each interior side wall of the perimeter wall may be non-linear. The packaging can be made of fiber.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a packaging for consumer product comprising a packaging comprising a top surface, a base and a perimeter wall defining a cavity. The perimeter wall has at least one portion that extends into the cavity, at least the portion comprises a recessed portion, the recessed portion has a lower height than the upper surface.

This aspect may include any one or more of the following characteristics. The recessed portion can be formed, integrally, with the perimeter wall. The base can comprising at least two projections extending from the base inside the cavity, at least two projections remote from the perimeter wall, where at least two projections can be integrally formed with the base. The package for consumer product may further comprise a consumer product disposed within the cavity so that each of at least two projections may define a recessed portion for housing the consumer product. The base may further comprise a secondary projection having a different height than a height of each of at least two projections, the secondary projection may be free of contact with the consumer product and may be formed, integrally, with the base and with at least two projections. The secondary projection may comprise a plurality of secondary projections; a height of each of the secondary projections is equal in height. Each of the pluralities of the secondary projections can move away from each other. The perimeter wall may comprise an outer surface, the outer surface comprising opposite side walls, each forming an angle not perpendicular to the top surface. The opposite side walls can be, generally, parallel. An interior side wall of the perimeter wall may be non-linear. Each interior side wall of the perimeter wall may be non-linear. The packaging can be made of fiber.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for processing packaging for consumer product packaging, the method comprises making a plurality of integrally formed fiber packages for a package for consumer product, each fiber package comprises a top surface, a base and a perimeter wall defining a cavity, the perimeter wall comprises side walls, wherein each side wall is non-linear, a side wall has a reverse demolding angle, and a portion of the fiber packaging has a high height from the base and less than a height of the upper surface; and stacking the plurality of fiber packages integrally formed, wherein a vertical surface of the fiber packaging portion is free of contact with any portion of another of the plurality of integrally formed fiber packages.

This aspect may include any of the following characteristics. The method for packaged processing may further include separating each of the plurality of integrally formed fiber packages. The separation stage can be achieved by automation and free from human manipulation.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a package for a package for consumer products, the method comprising tilting a pair of tools at an angle not parallel to the horizontal plane; molding a fiber package for a package for consumer product between the pair of tools, fiber packaging comprising a base and a perimeter wall defining a cavity, the perimeter wall comprises an outer surface with side walls, wherein one of the side walls are formed with a reverse demolding angle; and separate the fiber package from the pair of tools.

This aspect may include the following feature. The inclination of the pair of tools can allow the separation of the formed side wall with the reverse demolding angle to separate, vertically, from the pair of tools.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Other features and advantages of the present invention, as well as the invention itself, can be fully understood from the following description of the various embodiments, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a package that can be incorporated into a package for consumer product according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 is a simplified cross-sectional view of the laminate substrate suitable for forming a package, taken along line of sight A-A of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a perspective view of a package for consumer product according to an embodiment of an invention; Figures 4A-4C are several perspective and detailed views of a package for consumer product according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 is a top view of a packaging according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 is a top view of a packaging according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 is a side view of the packaging of Figure 6; Figure 8A is a perspective view of a package stack of the Figures 5 and 6; Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of the package stack taken along the line of view B-B of Figure 8A; Figures 9A and 9B are top and perspective views of a package according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 is a top view of a packaging according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 is a side view of the packaging of Figure 10; Figure 12A is a perspective view of a package stack of Figures 9A, 9B and 10; Figure 12B is a cross-sectional view of the package stack taken along the line of view CC of Figure 12A; Figures 13A and 13B are side views of the location of a package during manufacture according to one embodiment of the present invention; Y Figures 14A and 14B are side views of the location of a packaging during manufacture according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Except when indicated otherwise, the articles "a" "ones" and "the", "the", "the", "the" refer to "one or more".

With reference to Figure 1, a perspective view of a packaging 12 is shown. The packaging 12 may have a base 20 and a perimeter wall 22 defining a cavity 74. The base 20 may be, generally, flat. The perimeter wall 22 may have a plurality of socket members 24. For example, the socket members 24 may include recesses and / or protrusions located in a splice of the base 20 and the perimeter wall 22. The socket members 24 may provide a space between the packages 12 when they are stacked together during shipping and storage. The space allows the packages 12 to be separated, easily, with minimal damage to the packaging 12. The perimeter wall 22 of the packaging 12 can define an opening 30 that is dimensioned to house a structure support to support a packaging for consumer product in a substantially right and vertical position (eg, independent) on a support surface (such as in a product display or on a store shelf).

An inner and / or outer surface of the base 20 can also house the graphics and labeling of the package. The base 20 may have a generally flat rear exterior surface 75 to facilitate stacking of consumer product packages on top of each or on a flat shelf. However, the rear exterior surface 75 does not need to be flat, because the packaging 12 can be supported, vertically, by a stabilizing structure or suspended from a hook using a pendant member 14. An exterior projecting member 76 can extend over the perimeter wall 22 of the packaging 12. The outer protruding member 76 may extend continuously around the perimeter wall 22 or may extend only along a portion of the perimeter wall 22. In certain embodiments, the outer protruding member 76 may be, generally, parallel to the base 20 and provide an area for attaching a cover. The outgoing outer member 76 may be laminated with the same polymeric material or the like (eg, polyethylene terephthalate) as a cover for an improved seal (eg, a required removal force greater than 10 newtons). The outer projecting member 76 may extend outwardly beyond the perimeter wall 22 by approximately 2 mm, 4 mm or 6 mm to approximately 8 mm, 10 mm or 12 mm.

The perimeter wall 22 may be, generally, transverse to the base 20. For example, the perimeter wall 22 may taper inwardly from the outer protruding member 76 toward the base 20 at an angle greater than zero at about 3 degrees per side. However, it is understood that a larger conical angle can be used if desired. The narrowing of the perimeter wall 22 can improve the manufacturing capacity of the packaging 12 (i.e., improved release of the packaging 12 of a mold or tool). The perimeter wall 22 may define one or more openings 30 that are in communication with the cavity 74. In some embodiments, the opening 30 may be located in a lower portion (eg, an end wall 80) of the packaging 12 opposite the member. pendant 14 and transverse to the base 20. The opening 30 can be sized to receive a stabilizing structure. The opening 30 can be die cut or laser cut in the lower portion 80 of the packaging 12 (eg, the end wall 82). Although only one opening 30 is shown, it is understood that the package 12 may have a plurality of apertures 30 each sized which houses one or more stabilizing structures.

In certain embodiments, the package 12 may have a pendant member 14 to facilitate the display (eg, centering) of the consumer product package in a hanging display. Showcases for hanging products, such as pegboards, offer greater versatility for presenting items to consumers. For example, rotating peg boards are very useful for stores that have limited space. The pendant member 14 may have an opening 16 extending therethrough and having the dimensions suitable for receiving the pin or the hook of a pinboard-type showcase. The opening 16 may be circular, a slot or any other shape known to those skilled in the art, for easy arrangement of the packaging 12 on a pin or hook. The hanging member 14 may have other configurations such as a hook, to facilitate assembly of the consumer product package to a rope or wire. The pendant member 14 can be integrated into the packaging 12 or it can be a separate member that joins (eg, adhesives) to the packaging 12. Although the opening 16 extending through the pendant member 14 is shown, it is understood that the hanging member 14 is part of the packaging 12 and the opening 16 can extend directly through the packaging 12. In other embodiments, the packaging for consumer product may not have a hanging member 14 (eg, the packaging for product of consumption can be displayed on a store shelf and not on a pegboard).

The packaging for consumer product may have the advantage of not requiring any additional assembly by the store employees which places the package 12 in a substantially upright vertical position. For example, some self-supported packages such as the packaging generally described in US Pat. UU no. 3,785,546, requires that the store employee deploys a fixed support structure to a wall of the package. These types of packaging depend on the store employee assembling, correctly, (eg, deployment) the support structure. The support structure can also be damaged during assembly or while possible consumers manipulate the product. Additionally, these types of support structure occupy additional space in the store shelf and do not allow packaging to self-index. For example, typical support structures do not allow for consistent space because the front of a package may not directly contact the back face of an adjacent package. In addition, a pressure applicator can contact and deform the folded support structure.

Referring now to Figure 2, taken along the line of view A ~ A of Figure 1, the packaging 12 is shown to comprise a laminar structure formed of a substrate based on cellulose 200 and polymeric laminate 100. The structure Laminar forms the packaging having a base 20 and a perimeter wall 22. The packaging also forms an outer projection formed by said laminar structure. The portions of the laminar structure that form the outer projection include a cellulose-based substrate of exterior projection 276 and polymeric laminate of exterior projection 176. A cover can be removably attached to said polymeric laminate of exterior projection 176. As shown in FIG. In the present description, the polymeric laminate layer is intermediate to the cellulose-based substrate and the cavity formed in the packaging. In one embodiment, the packaging forms a interior surface that defines the cavity. The inner surface can be partially coated, at least with the polymeric laminate layer, preferably completely coated. Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that adding the specific polymeric laminate layer to the cellulose based substrate of the present invention allows the structure to be conveniently strong and resistant to collapse under applied pressure. In addition, it is believed that the present laminar structure can provide an air and / or water seal sufficiently tight to protect the contents stored inside. In one embodiment, the cavity can be sealed, hermetically. Furthermore, it is believed, importantly, that in selecting a cellulose-based substrate that is somewhat porous with sufficiently large interstitial spaces formed by the fibers, the amounts of polymeric laminate can fill the voids formed in the cellulose-based substrate, that way, they improve the adhesion between the two layers and fortify, in addition, the laminate compared with the similar non-lamellar structures or those that use cellulose pulps that form more closed cell surfaces. In an alternative mode to a laminar structure, the two layers can be adhered to another by means of UV adhesive, cold glue, hot melt, etc.

One embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for forming a laminated substrate, the method comprising the steps of: forming a pulp mixture comprising: a pulp feed derived from bamboo; a pulp feed derived from sugar cane; a feeding of pulp derived from totora; and a soda ash feed; molding said pulp mixture in a cellulosic substrate with an optional coloring additive; and laminating at least a portion of said cellulosic substrate with a layer of polymeric laminate. Each of the feeds can include the cellulose-based material in varying concentrations, since they are commercially available as a material premium such as, for example, bagasse from 0.3% to 0.4% by weight with water. The soda ash can be added in a range of 7% to 8% by weight in water. The relative feeding intervals can be several, depending on the desired amounts of each pulp. The molding step can be by thermoforming said pulp mixture. In one embodiment, said step of forming said slurry mixture is carried out at an elevated temperature of from about 35 C to about 60 C, or from about 50 C to about 55 C. In another embodiment, said molding step comprises molding by thermoforming said pulp mixture at a temperature of about 180 C to about 220 C, or about 200 C and a pressure of about 28 tons to about 32 tons, or about 30 tons.

The laminar structure of the present invention comprises: a substrate based on cellulose and a polymeric laminate. The cellulose-based substrate comprises a mixture of grass-based pulp materials such as pulp derived from bamboo, pulp derived from sugarcane (commonly referred to as bagasse pulp), pulp derived from totora and mix of these. In one embodiment, the cellulose-based substrate comprises from about 50% to about 75%, or from about 60% to about 70%, or about 65% of a pulp derived from bamboo; from about 15% to about 35%, or from about 20% to about 30%, or about 25% of a pulp derived from sugar cane; and up to about 25%, or from about 5% to about 15%, or about 10% of a pulp derived from totora. Other pulps may also be included as needed (eg, wheat ears, rice husk, etc. and combinations thereof available from BeGreen Packaging LLC, Santa Barbara, CA). Without intending to be limited by the In theory, it is believed that this mixture of grass-based pulps provides desired container strength and flexibility. For example, if insufficient quantities of pulps derived from bamboo are used, the container may not be rigid enough. If used too much, the container can not be flexible enough.

The polymeric laminate layer at least partially coats said cellulose-based substrate, said polymeric laminate layer having a thickness of about 0.02 mm to about 0.1 mm, or from about 0.025 mm to about 0.05 mm, or about 0.035 mm to approximately 0.04 mm, or approximately 0.038 mm. In one embodiment, the polymeric laminate layer has an average thickness of about 0.02 mm to about 0.1 mm. The polymeric laminate layer can be made of a transparent polymeric material including, but not limited to, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high polyethylene. density (HDPE, for its acronym in English), and low density polyethylene (LDPE, for its acronym in English), polypropylene (PP, for its acronym in English), or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the laminate is made of PET. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that although thicker laminate layers can be applied, the thickness of the polymeric laminate layer of the present invention provides, in a significant way, sufficient air resistance and / or water and hardness of load without being so rigid so that the laminate releases the cellulose-based substrate when the package is deformed during handling or manufacture. In addition, by providing a thin enough laminate thickness, the polymeric material can decompose in a similar time with the cellulose based substrate. Water resistance or water proof means that water will not enter and pass easily through the laminar structure during handling and normal conditions of use. Those with experience in the art will understand that due to sufficient time and pressure of deformation or structural damage to the laminated substrate, water and air will be able, eventually, to enter and pass, probably. It is understood by water resistance or waterproof that certain embodiments of the present invention can withstand the entry of water after manufacture and before the package is opened by the user, during the normal course of transport, handling and storage.

In certain embodiments, the packaging can be manufactured from a cellulosic material such as cardboard and / or renewable materials as described above. The packaging may be of the natural color of the carton and / or of the renewable material or may alternatively contain a dye (eg, orange or blue) for an improved consumption appearance. The cover can be transparent and / or translucent so that a consumer can see the articles arranged within the packaging. In certain embodiments, the cover can be injection molded or thermoformed from a transparent polymeric material including, but not limited to, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET). in English), high density polyethylene (HDPE), and low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), or any combination of these. Alternatively, the cover may include a flat or formed board, or polymeric material with a heat-sealable coating and / or an anti-theft coating. The cover may also include thin polymeric films that are sealed to the package. The packaging may comprise similar or different materials such as cover 18. In one embodiment, the package may be formed to include a release flap by including a cut in the outer projection so that the cover is easily exposed and detachable from packaging.

Other suitable methods for providing a detached tab can deliberately include not sealing a region other than the cover and the outer projection. These and other easy opening mechanisms are known and suitable for use in the present disclosure.

What is shown in Figures 3, 4A, 4B, and 4C are embodiments of a package for assembled consumer product. The consumer product packaging can be mounted in a hanging display (eg, a peg board) and / or displayed on a store shelf. It is believed that the packaging for consumer product may include any type of bubble type packaging including, but not limited to, card-type and clam-type packaging. The packaging for consumer product includes a package 302 for holding and displaying one or more consumer products and a cover 304 fixed to the packaging 302. In the embodiment shown in Figures 3, 4A, 4B and 4C, the cover 304 is a packaging bubble type The package 302 is attached to a bubble-type package 304, and the package 302 and the cover 304 define a cavity for housing a consumer product 306. The consumer product 306 may include one or more items, for example, the consumer product 306 may include a shaver 308, a shaving tray 310, a cartridge organizer 312 and, optionally, a display card 314. At least a portion of the shaver 308 may be removably attached to the shaving tray 310 and / or the shaving tray 310 can be removably attached to the cartridge organizer 312. The cartridge organizer 312 can hold and / or display one or more shaving cartridges. The optional display card 314 may be located between the shaving tray 310 and the cartridge organizer 312 or, alternatively, the display card 314 may be located on or extended over the consumer product 306. The display card 314 may have several elements of graphic design and relevant information on the consumer product.

In an embodiment in which the consumer product package is displayed on a shelf, a portion of the bottom surface of the cover 304 may be flat to assist the packaging for consumer product on display. Additionally or alternatively, a lower surface of the package 302 may be, only partially, in contact with a surface when the packaging for the consumer product is intended to be displayed on a shelf to further assist the packaging for consumer product in the display. . At least a portion of the lower surface of the package 302 is flat.

In one embodiment, the package 302 may have portions configured to join the consumer product. For example, a projection from the base of the package may include a recess for housing a handle of a shaver 308. Additionally or alternatively, another projection from the base of the package may be configured to attach the cartridge organizer 312 and / or the shaving tray 310. Said projections from the base of the packaging extend into the packaging cavity. The recessed portions of a perimeter wall (in which the portions are recessed compared to an upper surface of the packaging) can optionally be put in contact with the cartridge organizer 312 and / or the shaving tray 310 when the packaging for product Consumption is assembled. When the packaging for consumer product is assembled, the packaging 302 and the cover 304 try to secure the consumer product to avoid shoving or damage to the consumer product. In one embodiment, the packaging 302 is formed, integrally, with the materials described in the present disclosure. Additionally or alternatively, the projections within the package that extend into the cavity can be seen as recesses when the packaging is viewed from the outside, with the cavity removed from the viewer.

Referring now to Figures 5-12B, various modes of packaging are shown. What is shown in Figure 5 is a packaging 322 with top surface 324, a base 326 and a perimeter wall 328 defining a cavity. The base 326 includes a plurality of projections. In one embodiment, a first projection 328 may include a recessed portion for housing a portion of a consumer product. The first projection 328 may, optionally, include at least one secondary projection 330 in which a height of the upper surface of the at least one secondary projection 330 is less than a height of an upper surface of the first projection 328. The height of the upper surface of the at least one secondary projection 330 may optionally be about 15% to 30% of the height of the top surface 324, preferably, about 20% to about 25%. In one embodiment, there may not be at least one secondary projection 330 or there may be more secondary projections 330 than the ones shown. Additionally or alternatively, the base 326 includes a second projection 332. The second projection 332 may include a recessed portion and / or ends for attaching a consumer product. The perimeter wall 328 may include portions that extend into the cavity. Such a portion may include at least a recessed portion 334 in which a height of the recessed portion is less than a height of the upper surface 324. The height of the recessed portion may, optionally, be approximately 15% to 30% of the height of the top surface 324, preferably, from about 20% to about 25%. In one embodiment, there may not be at least one recessed portion 334 or there may be more recessed portions 334 than shown. In one embodiment, a package 322 may include one or more secondary projections 332 and / or one or more recessed portions 334 of the perimeter wall 328.

In one embodiment, what is shown in Figure 6 is a packaging 342 with a secondary projection 344 having an upper surface with a lower height than an upper surface of a first projection 346. In addition, two recessed portions 348 of a perimeter wall 350 are shown in which the recessed portions have a lower height than a lower surface 352 of the packaging 342. The height of the upper surface of a secondary projection 344 and / or the height of the surface The upper portion of the two recessed portions 348 may, optionally, be about 15% to 30% of the height of the top surface 352, preferably, from about 20% to about 25%. In one embodiment, packaging 342 may have less (such as none) or more secondary projections 344 and / or recess portions 348 than those shown. In one embodiment, the perimeter wall 350 is not linear so that the perimeter wall 350 has indentations and / or portions extending into the cavity. Additionally or alternatively, each side wall of the perimeter wall 350 is non-linear.

In one embodiment, shown in Figure 7, a first projection 352 of a base of a packaging 354 has a higher height than an upper surface 356 of the packaging 354 so that the first projection 352 extends out of the packaging 354.

With reference to Figures 8A and 8B, the packages can be stacked and unstacked for processing. The secondary projections 332 and / or recessed portions 334 of the packaging 322 shown in Figure 5 and the secondary projections 344 and / or recessed portions 348 of the packaging 342 shown in Figure 6 can help stacking or unstacking the packages. Without intending to be limited by the theory, it is believed that said characteristics can help with the disengagement of said stacked structures, since without said disengagement characteristics the surface energy of said Packaging made from the materials described in the present description (eg, packaged fiber) is sufficient or high enough to cause the packages to stick during stacking or unstacking. Similarly, without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that fiber packages without adequate disengagement characteristics add complexity and cost to manufacturing and / or processing since manual intervention is required for processing. This is believed to be true since packaging such as that described in the present disclosure has many stripping angles, positive and / or reverse / negative stripping angles, thereby causing the proper stripping characteristics to be an important consideration. It is believed that the unlocking characteristics of the present invention can facilitate automated processing, since automation will allow packaging to be processed, such as stacking and unstacking the packages. Automated processing can reduce the cost and make use of more environmentally friendly fiber trays that are more attractive for use. Said fiber trays will be fed from the collection and placement loader, as is known in the art, with vacuum and suction devices which produces a more efficient processing and assembly. Additionally or alternatively, the use of manual feeding of said fiber trays can also provide an easier separation to material manipulators, thereby accelerating manual feeding operation and making it more efficient. In one embodiment shown in Figure 8B, the packaging 322 shown in Figure 5 can be stacked and / or unstacked with the packaging 342 shown in Figure 6. Additionally, other packages with unlocking characteristics can be stacked or unstacked. Preferably, the unlocking characteristics of a package are not in the same location as the unlocking characteristics of another package in the upper part or in the lower part of another package. It is believed that when the packages are stacked, the projections secondary portions 332, 344 and / or recessed portions 334, 348 help to disengage, since portions of these characteristics do not come into contact with the package stacked above and / or below. Said contact-free portions can help to mitigate the surface energy of fiber packages to facilitate easier processing. In one embodiment, when the packages 322, 342 are stacked, a portion (eg, a vertical surface and / or a horizontal surface, and / or a portion of a vertical surface and / or a portion of a horizontal surface) of the unlocking characteristics is free of contact of any portion of a package stacked up or down. In one embodiment, when stacked, a vertical portion closer to the pendant member of the second projection 332 of the packaging 322 moves away from a vertical portion closer to the pendant member of a similarly shaped packaging projection 342, optionally, spaced from about 0.2. mm to about 2.5 mm, preferably, from about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that one or both of the unlocking characteristics and / or the portions remote from the packaging projections facilitate easier packaging manufacturing, assembly, and / or processing.

What is shown in Figures 9A-12B are several other packaging modalities. With reference to Figures 9A and 9B, a package 352 has a first projection 354. The first projection 354 includes a recessed portion configured to accommodate a consumer product. The first projection 354 may optionally also include secondary projections 356 in which a height of the secondary projections 356 is less than a height of the upper surface of the first projection. Additionally or alternatively, the height of the secondary projections 356 is less than a height of the lower surface of the recessed portion. In one embodiment, the packaging 352 may have fewer or more secondary projections disposed around several portions of the first projection 354, than those shown. The packaging 352 may also have a second projection 358 configured to be joined with a consumer product. The second projection 358 includes additional 360 secondary projections. A height of the additional secondary projections 360 may be less than a height of an upper surface of the second projection 358. In one embodiment, the packaging 352 may have more or fewer additional secondary projections 360 arranged around several portions of the second projection 358. , which are shown. Additionally or alternatively, a perimeter wall of the packaging 352 may include a recessed portion 362 in which a height of the recessed portion 362 is smaller than a top surface of the packaging 352. The recessed portion 362 may be elongated and may, optionally, be so long as the first projection 354, the second projection 358, and / or any other projection extending from a base of the packaging 352. The height of the upper surface of the secondary projections 356 of the first projection 354, the height of the top surface of the additional secondary projections 360, and / or the height of the recessed portion 362 may, optionally, be from about 15% to 30% of the height of the top surface of the packaging 352, preferably, from about 20% to about 25% .

In one embodiment, for example, shown in Figure 10, a package 372 has a first projection 373 including a recess for housing a consumer product, for example, a handle of a shaver. The first projection 373 may, optionally, not include any of the secondary projections. The packaging 372 has a second projection 374 configured to join the consumer product, for example, a cartridge organizer. The second projection 374 includes secondary projections 376 in which a height of the secondary projections is less than a height of the second projection 374. In one embodiment, the second projection 374 may have less or more secondary projections 376, arranged around several portions of the second projection 374, than those shown. The package 372 further includes a third projection 378 configured to join a consumer product, for example, a cartridge and / or shaver organizer. The third projection 378 includes additional secondary projections 380 in which a height of the additional secondary projections 380 is less than a height of the third projection 378. Additionally or alternatively, the packaging 372 may include a perimeter wall having a recessed portion in the wherein a height of the recessed portion is less than an upper surface of the packaging 372. The height of the upper surface of the secondary projections 376 of the second projection 374, the height of the upper surface of the additional secondary projections 380, and / or the height of the recessed portion of the perimeter wall may, optionally, be about 15% to 30% of the height of the top surface of the packaging 372, preferably, from about 20% to about 25%.

In one embodiment shown in Figure 11, a package 382 has a first projection (not shown) in which the first projection includes a recessed portion for receiving a consumer product, for example, a handle of a shaver. The first projection does not extend outside the packaging 382 so that a height of the first projection is less than a top surface of the packaging 382.

In one embodiment, the packages 352, 372, 382 can be stacked and unstacked for processing. The unlocking characteristics of the packages 352, 372, 382 can facilitate automated processing. What is shown in Figures 12A and 12B is a package stack 352, 372. Additionally, other packaged with disengagement characteristics can be stacked or unstacked. It is believed that when the packages are stacked, the secondary projections 356, 360, 376, 380 and / or the recessed portions 362 help to disengage, since the portions of these characteristics do not come into contact with the stacked packaging above and / or down. Said contact-free portions can help to mitigate the surface energy of fiber packages to facilitate easier processing. In one embodiment, when the packages 352, 372 are stacked, a portion (eg, a vertical surface and / or a horizontal surface, and / or a portion of a vertical surface and / or a portion of a horizontal surface) of the unlocking characteristics is free of contact of any portion of a package stacked up or down. In one embodiment, when stacked, a vertical portion closer to the hanging member of the first projection 354 of the packaging 352 moves away from a vertical portion closer to the hanging member of the first projection 373 of the packaging 372, optionally, spaced approximately 0.2 mm to about 2.5 mm, preferably, from about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that one or both of the unlocking characteristics and / or the portions remote from the packaging projections facilitate easier packaging manufacture, assembly, and / or processing.

In one embodiment, the packages of the present invention are molded, preferably integrally, for example, so that the peel characteristics described in the present description can be molded integrally with the packaging. Additionally or alternatively, the packages can be formed from molding with additional features manufactured by secondary operation (s). Referring now to Figures 13A and 13B, a package 382 can be formed by molding a material, as described in the present description, between a pair of tools, for example, a male tool and a female tool. He package 382 can be molded so that a lower outer surface 384 of the package has a reverse draft angle. In one embodiment, the reverse demolding angle is about minus 5 degrees to about minus 15 degrees, preferably, about minus 7 degrees to about minus 10 degrees, and, more preferably, about minus minus 8 degrees. The reverse draft angle of the lower outer surface 384 can assist a consumer product package to be located when placed on a shelf, optionally together with a flat portion of a lower surface of a cover (e.g. bubble type packaging). Additionally or alternatively, an upper outer surface 386 is generally parallel to the lower surface 384. In one embodiment, the upper surface 388 of the packaging is generally formed parallel with the horizontal plane. For example, the pair of tools can be oriented, generally, parallel with the horizontal plane. One skilled in the art can understand that the cavity of a package can be oriented up or down depending on whether the male tool or the female tool is used on the side in which the cavity is formed. With reference now to Figures 14A and 14B, the package 382 is molded, preferably, for example, molded, integrally, so that a pair of tools are at an angle. Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that forming the package 382 at an angle can facilitate easier separation of the package 382 from the mold, particularly for a package 382 having a reverse draft angle for the bottom surface 384. That is, it is believed that forming the package 382 at an angle can allow a machine or a user to separate the package 382 directly from a tool, vertically up or down. Said separation can be made, easier, to minimize the surface energy or forces required to lift the packaging 382 with a reverse demolding angle of the tool. What is shown in the Figure 14A is a package 382 with an upwardly directed cavity in which the package 382 can be formed at an angle at which an angle 390 between a plane of an upper outer surface 386 and the horizontal plane is approximately 65 degrees to approximately 85 degrees, preferably, about 75 degrees to about 80 degrees and, even more preferably, about 78 degrees. In addition, an angle 392 formed between a plane of the lower outer surface 384 and the horizontal plane can be about 85 degrees to about 100 degrees, preferably, about 90 degrees to about 97 degrees and, even more preferably, about 95 degrees. What is shown in Figure 14B is a package 382 with a downwardly directed cavity in which the package 382 can be formed at an angle at which an angle 394 between a plane of the upper surface 388 and the horizontal surface is approximately 5 degrees to about 25 degrees, preferably, about 10 degrees to about 13 degrees and, even more preferably, about 13 degrees. In addition, an angle 396 formed between a plane of the lower outer surface 384 and the horizontal may be about 85 degrees to about 100 degrees, preferably, about 90 degrees to about 97 degrees and, even more preferably, about 95 degrees.

The demand for recyclable packaging materials increases, constantly. Currently, it is difficult to manufacture packages (eg, bubble-type packaging) of recyclable packaging materials (eg, cardboard or renewable flat fibers) with characteristics to support the package in a vertical and substantially straight position. Unlike polymeric materials, materials such as cardboard or renewable plant fibers have manufacturing limitations that limit the shape and design of the package.

In one embodiment, the cover is sealed, directly, in the portion of the outer projection formed by the polymeric laminate layer that partly forms the inner surface of the packaging. Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that by removably sealing the cover in the polymeric laminate layer, a strong seal that is sufficiently resistant to the passage of air and water can be achieved. In one embodiment, the strength of the seal between the cover and the polymeric laminate layer of the outer projection that is formed is from about 6 to about 10 newton, or from about 7 to 8 newton, preferably, at least 6 newton. It is believed that comparable seals made directly to the cellulose-based substrate may not provide the strength of up to 6 newtons, possibly even less than 3 newtons. In addition, it may be preferable to use embodiments where the entire inner surface is formed of said polymeric laminate layer, since it may allow better sealing since any tensile force on the cover will be transferred to the polymeric laminate layer of outer projection in contact and at least in part transferred along other portions of the laminate layer that forms the remainder of the inner surface. It is believed that the remainder of the polymeric laminate layer would provide an additional "anchoring" effect, since it increases the amount of contact between the polymeric laminate layer and the cellulose-based substrate. Of course, it is also within the scope of the present invention that the portions of the inner surface are not coated with said laminate. In one embodiment, at least 50% per area, or at least 75%, or at least 95%, or at least 99%, up to 100% per area of the cellulose-based substrate portion facing the inner surface is coated with said polymeric laminate layer. In another embodiment, the entire outer surface of the cellulose-based substrate is coated in this manner, or any of the ranges previously described in the preceding paragraph. In an alternative mode to a laminar structure, any of the two or more layers can adhere to each other by means of UV adhesive, cold glue, hot melt, etc.

The embodiments detailed in the present invention may further combine elements or components of the invention which are generally described but not expressly exemplified in combination unless otherwise mentioned in the present description.

All parts, ratios and percentages used herein, in the specification, examples and claims, are expressed by weight and all numerical limits are used to the normal degree of accuracy permitted by the technique, unless otherwise indicated.

The dimensions and values set forth herein are not to be construed as strictly limited to the exact numerical values mentioned. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each of the dimensions is meant to mean both the aforementioned value and a functionally equivalent range encompassing that value. For example, a dimension described as "40 mm" refers to "approximately 40 mm".

It will be understood that each maximum numerical limitation given in this specification will include any lower numerical limitation, as if the lower numerical limitations had been explicitly annotated herein. All minimum numerical limits cited in this specification shall include all major numerical limits, as if such numerical major limits had been explicitly quoted herein. All numerical ranges cited in this specification shall include all minor intervals that fall within the larger numerical ranges, as if all minor numerical ranges had been explicitly quoted herein.

All document cited in the present invention, including any Patent or correlated or related patent application, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, unless they have been expressly excluded or limited in some other way. The citation of any document is not an admission that said document is prior industry with respect to any invention described or claimed herein or by itself, or in combination with any reference or references, principles, suggestions or descriptions of any invention. Furthermore, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document contradicts any meaning or definition of the term in a document incorporated as a reference, the meaning or definition assigned to the term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those with experience in the industry that other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It has been intended, therefore, to cover all the changes and modifications within the scope of the invention in the appended claims.

Claims (10)

REINVIDICATIONS

1. A package for consumer products that includes: a package comprising a base and a perimeter wall defining a cavity, the base comprising at least two projections extending from the base within the cavity, at least two projections remote from the perimeter wall; Y a consumer product disposed within the cavity, so that each of at least two projections defines a recessed portion for housing the consumer product, characterized in that the base comprises a secondary projection having a different height than a height of each of at least two projections, the secondary projection free of contact of the consumer product.

2. The packaging for consumer product according to claim 1, further characterized in that the secondary projection is formed, integrally, with the base.

3. The packaging for consumer product according to any of claims 1 or 2, further characterized in that the secondary projection comprises a plurality of secondary projections, a height of each of the secondary projections is equal in height.

4. The packaging for consumer product according to claim 3, further characterized in that each of the pluralities of the secondary projections moves away from each other.

5. The packaging for consumer product according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized by the packaging further comprises an upper surface and the perimeter wall comprises an outer surface, the outer surface comprising opposite side walls, each forming an angle not perpendicular to the upper surface.

6. The packaging for consumer product according to claim 5, further characterized in that the opposite side walls are generally parallel.

7. The packaging for consumer product according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized in that an interior side wall of the perimeter wall is non-linear.

8. The packaging for consumer product according to claim 7, further characterized in that one side of the perimeter wall comprises a recessed portion having a lower height than an upper surface of the packaging.

9. The packaging for consumer product according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized in that each inner side wall of the perimeter wall is non-linear.

10. The packaging for consumer product according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized in that the packaging is made of fiber.