US20040084348A1

US20040084348A1 - Tortilla-packaging box and support apparatus

Info

Publication number: US20040084348A1
Application number: US10/288,247
Authority: US
Inventors: Jonathan Nash; Aaron Easley
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2002-11-04
Filing date: 2002-11-04
Publication date: 2004-05-06

Abstract

The present invention comprises a tortilla housing and support apparatus, configured to be manipulated so that the housing performs as a tortilla support device that provides vertical support to at least one tortilla. The tortilla housing and support apparatus is initially used as a tortilla-packaging box, such as tortilla boxes currently in use at supermarkets for housing tortillas. The tortilla housing has a configuration so that it may be manipulated from serving as packaging so that it performs as a tortilla support device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application generally relates to food packaging configured to be manipulated so that the packaging performs as a dinning support apparatus for transporting and supporting in an upright position tacos, tortillas, fajitas, burritos, wraps, gorditas, chalupas and the like.

BACKGROUND

Mexican food, particularly those dishes that utilize tacos and tortillas, has become very popular in the United States. The Mexican foods market, including the fast food, dine-in/sit down restaurant and the home production and consumption segments, has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry. Many individuals enjoy the fast food and restaurant version of Mexican taco and tortilla-based dishes, while many others prefer to construct their taco and tortilla-based dishes at home using fresh ingredients. However, the nature of many popular taco and tortilla dishes present several undesirable problems for taco and tortilla preparers and consumers.

One such problem encountered in preparation of tacos and tortillas is that, since taco shells have a rounded base and tortillas revert to a flat disc shape when not held in hand, it is very difficult to support taco shells and tortillas in an upright or manageably stable position while filling the taco and tortilla, respectively, with the desired ingredients, such as meat, beans, vegetables, and/or salsa, etc. Unfortunately, the taco and tortilla builder's effort often results in a mess wherein many of the taco ingredients end up outside the taco shell or in unmanageable proportions on tortillas during the construction process. There is therefore a need for a taco shell and tortilla support device, which will support tacos and tortillas in a position to reduce waste and mess and simplify the taco and tortilla filling process.

Moreover, following preparation of tacos and tortillas, tacos are presented on their side on a plate. This can lead to much of the taco filling falling out of the taco shell onto the plate. When tortillas are presented on a plate, they lay open and are presented as a mound of ingredients that tend to distribute all over the tortilla, thus causing the loss of tortilla fillings when the consumer picks up the tortilla filled with ingredients. Tacos and tortillas are currently transported and supported by plates, papers or an apparatus such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,019,224. When paper or plates are used as transport or support devices, they yield the undesirable need for action by the food consumer to replace or redistribute the taco and tortilla fillings in the tortilla shell. Further, the presentation of tacos and tortillas on paper or plates is not the most aesthetically pleasing method and could subtract from the entire eating experience.

Another problem that is occurring in the Mexican foods market, including the fast food, dine-in/sit down restaurant and the home production and consumption segments, is that there is substantial waste occurring as a result of the inefficient use of packaging and support materials. In the fast food, dine-in/sit down restaurant segment, tacos and tortillas are packaged and provided to the customer wrapped in paper. The paper is then discarded and the tacos and/or tortillas are supported and presented on a plate. In the home production and consumption segment, taco and tortilla kits are sold in boxes filled with taco and/or tortilla shells and fillings, including meat seasoning. In this environment the box used as packaging is discarded. The tacos and tortillas are then prepared and presented on their side on paper or a standard dinner plate. There is a need for taco and tortilla packaging that can serve as initial packaging and as the transport and support apparatus in the fast food, dine-in/sit down restaurant and the home production and consumption segments. The packaging needed would prevent waste associated with having separate packaging and support apparatuses.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved tortilla packaging and support apparatus. The present invention provides a solution to many problems, such as those discussed above, currently faced in the industry.

SUMMARY

The present invention comprises a tortilla housing and support device configured to be manipulated so that the housing, which initially performs as packaging, performs as a tortilla support device that provides vertical support to at least one tortilla. In one embodiment of the invention the tortilla housing and support device comprises a substantially rectangular box, which has four sidewalls, a base plate and a top wall. The top wall includes perforated regions that are configured to be manipulated to create tortilla-receiving chambers accessed through the top wall. The tortilla receiving chambers provide vertical support to tortillas positioned therein. In one embodiment, the perforated regions provide for the complete removal of a section of the top wall, thereby creating an opening to a chamber for positioning tortillas therein. In another embodiment, the perforated regions are in an “I” shape and the tortilla-receiving chambers that are accessed through the top wall are created by placing downward pressure on the perforations and thereby creating tortilla receiving chambers in the tortilla housing that provide vertical support to tortillas. The tortilla receiving chambers include sidewalls that are created from the portions of the top wall that are folded downward into the tortilla receiving chambers. Another embodiment of the tortilla housing and support device comprises a tortilla housing having a tortilla support device configured into the bottom plate of the tortilla support device.

These and various other features as well as advantages which characterize the present invention will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description and a review of the associated drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [0009]
FIG. 2 illustrates another embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention; [0010]
FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus, having an interior non-collapsible tortilla support device, according to another embodiment of the present invention; [0011]
FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus, having an interior non-collapsible tortilla support device, according to another embodiment of the present invention; [0012]
FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus, having an interior collapsible support device, according to another embodiment of the present invention; [0013]
FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment tortilla housing and support apparatus, having an interior non-collapsible tortilla support device, according to another embodiment of the present invention; [0014]
FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment tortilla housing and support apparatus, having an interior collapsible support device, according to another embodiment of the present invention; [0015]
FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus, having an interior accordion style collapsible support device, according to another embodiment of the present invention; and [0016]
FIG. 9 illustrates the embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus, illustrated in FIG. 8, showing the interior accordion style collapsible support device in its fully collapsed position.[0017]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is a tortilla packaging that is configured such that it may be manipulated to perform as a tortilla support apparatus that provides vertical support to tortillas. As used herein, the definition of the term “tortilla” refers to and comprises hard u-shaped shells, soft taco shells, fajitas, burritos, wraps, gorditas, chalupas and any other edible soft or hard shell food support device resembling hard and soft shell tacos, fajitas, burritos, wraps, gorditas, chalupas and wraps. In one embodiment of the invention, the tortilla packaging housing initially performs as a tortilla packaging that houses the tortillas, such as the tortilla boxes (“tortilla housings”) used in the sale of tortillas in supermarkets. The tortilla housing is configured such that it may be converted into a tortilla support apparatus whereby tortillas may be supported in an upright position allowing the tortilla ingredients to be added and supported without spilling. In other embodiments the tortilla support apparatus is configured directly into the bottom of the tortilla housing as a collapsible or non-collapsible support device. [0018]
FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the invention, illustrating a [0019] tortilla housing 100 configured for conversion to a tortilla support apparatus. In this embodiment, the tortilla housing initially performs as a tortilla packaging that houses the tortillas, such as the tortilla boxes (“tortilla housings”) used in the sale of tortillas in supermarkets. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the tortilla support apparatus 100 comprises a substantially rectangular box, which has four sidewalls (only two shown 102, 104), a base plate (not shown) and a top wall 130 with three perforated regions 110, 111 and 112. It is to be understood that the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is not in anyway intended to limit the number of perforated regions to three. The present invention contemplates the use of any number of perforated regions so long as the regions are of a size allowing for creation of tortilla receiving chambers of a size sufficient to receive tortillas. FIG. 1 further shows rectangular tear- away segments 120, 121 and 122. The rectangular tear- away segments 120, 121 and 122 have perforated edges, which engage and couple to the perforated regions 110, 111 and 112. Only one rectangular tear-away segment 120 is shown removed, creating an opening in the top wall 130 and thereby a tortilla-receiving chamber 140A, in the tortilla support apparatus 100. It is to be understood that the embodiment shown is not in anyway intended to limit the tear away segments to being rectangular in shape. The present invention contemplates the use of oval tear away segments, oval tortilla-receiving chambers and tear away segments that create tortilla-receiving chambers of any shape that can receive tortillas.
A user would place the [0020] tortilla support apparatus 100 on a surface then detach the desired number of tear- away segments 120, 121 and 122 from the top wall 130 of the support apparatus 100, along the perforated regions 110, 111 and 112. As a result, tortilla-receiving chambers 140 are formed. The user of the tortilla support apparatus 100 may now position tortillas within the tortilla-receiving chambers 140A, 140B, and 140C. While tortillas are positioned in a tortilla receiving chambers 140A, 140B, and 140C, the tortillas enjoys lateral support from the lengthwise portions 150, 152 and 154 of the perforated regions 110, 111 and 112. In another embodiment of the present invention, one of the side walls separating the top wall 130 from the bottom wall, or base plate (not shown), provides a means to access the interior of the tortilla support apparatus 100 to securely close it again. In an alternative embodiment, the structure illustrated in FIG. 1 would be a support apparatus only and not a tortilla package or housing. The embodiment would simply perform the tortilla support and transportation features and would not serve as a package. In such an embodiment, the height of the tortilla housing 100 would be shortened such that the height prevents the tortilla housing 100 from having a size sufficient to perform as packaging for tortillas. However, the height would be set high enough so that the tortilla housing 100 performs as a support apparatus.
FIG. 2 illustrates another embodiment of a tortilla housing and [0021] support apparatus 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The tortilla housing and support apparatus 200 comprises a generally rectangular housing having four sidewalls (only two are shown 202, 204), a base plate (not shown) and a top wall 230. The top wall 230 is configured with perforated regions defined by intersecting perforation sets configured to form a shape similar to the letter “I.” When downward force is applied to the “I” shaped intersecting perforation sets, tortilla-receiving chambers 206, 208 and 210 are created. Tortilla receiving chamber 206 is created after applying downward force on intersecting perforation sets 210, 212 and 214. Tortilla receiving chamber 208 is created after applying downward force on intersecting perforation sets 216, 218 and 220. Tortilla receiving chamber 210 is created after applying downward force on intersecting perforation sets 222, 224 and 226. FIG. 2 illustrates that there are only three “I” shaped perforated regions. However, one skilled in the art could appreciate that one could implement a tortilla housing and support apparatus 200 with more or less “I” shaped perforated regions, and still be within the scope of the present invention.
A user would begin utilizing the tortilla housing and [0022] support apparatus 200 by placing it 200 on a surface, and then depressing, or applying vertical downward force upon the “I” shaped intersecting perforation sets. FIG. 2 illustrates how tortilla-receiving chamber 208 is created after applying downward force on the “I” shaped intersecting perforation sets 216, 218 and 220. As a result, the first 240 and second 242 portions derived from the “I” shaped intersecting perforation sets 216, 218 and 220 of the top wall 230 would separate and move below the plane of the top plate 230. First 240 and second 242 portions derived from the “I” shaped intersecting perforation sets 216, 218 and 220 of the top wall 230 would inwardly deflect about the hinged region 244 and 246, respectively, into the interior of the tortilla housing and support apparatus 200. Thus, a tortilla-receiving chamber 208 is created. The first 240 and second 242 portions derived from the “I” shaped intersecting perforation sets 216, 218 and 220 of the top wall 230 then function as interior vertical support to a tortilla that the user positions in the tortilla receiving chamber. In another embodiment of the present invention, one of the side walls separating the top wall 230 from the bottom wall, or base plate (not shown), provides a means that functions to provide access to the interior of the tortilla housing and support apparatus 200 and to securely close it 200 again. In an alternative embodiment, the structure illustrated in FIG. 2 would be a support apparatus only and not a tortilla package or housing. The embodiment would simply perform the tortilla support and transportation features and would not serve as a package. In such an embodiment, the height of the tortilla housing 200 would be shortened such that the height prevents the tortilla housing 200 from having a size sufficient to perform as packaging for tortillas. However, the height would be set high enough so that the tortilla housing 200 performs as a support apparatus.
FIG. 3 illustrates yet another embodiment of a tortilla housing and [0023] support apparatus 300, having an interior non-collapsible tortilla support device 310, according to another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus 300, according to the present invention, comprises a generally rectangular housing having a first 320, second 322, third 324 and fourth 326 sidewalls, a base plate 380 and a top wall 330. The top wall 330 is configured to partially detach and permit a top wall portion 331 to hingedly move from the original plane of the top wall. In one embodiment the top wall portion 331 is outlined with perforations, by which a user may detach the top wall portion 331 as discussed above. The top wall portion 331 is integrally coupled to a detachable portion 321 of the first sidewall 320, or flap, 321, which also can be outlined with perforations operative to permit its detachment. In another embodiment of the present invention the detachable portion 321 of the first sidewall 320 provides a securement means so that it can securely re-engage the non-detachable portion of the first sidewall 320. The securement means may comprise an adhesive having the ability to re-attach the detachable portion 321 to the first sidewall 320. The securement means may also be a slot (not shown) positioned on the first sidewall 320, wherein the slot is structured to receive the flap 320.
Within the tortilla housing and [0024] support apparatus 300, a tortilla support device 310 is integrally disposed within the interior of the generally rectangular housing. The tortilla support device 310 comprises a first wall 360 (partially removed to show certain interior features), a second wall 362, a third wall 364, a fourth wall 366, a top wall 350 and a bottom wall 380 respectively. The tortilla support device 310 shares a common bottom surface with the generally rectangular housing, whereby the base plate 380 of the tortilla housing and support apparatus 300 serves as the bottom wall 380 to the tortilla support device 310. Thus, the sidewalls 360, 362, 364 and 366 are integrally coupled directly to the base plate 380. The manner in which sidewalls 360, 362, 364 and 366 are coupled to the base plate 380 in the present embodiment is by flaps (not shown) extending from each sidewall 360, 362, 364 and 366. The flaps are permanently connected to the base plate 380. The method of attaching the tortilla support device 310 to the base plate 380, described herein is not intended to limit the myriad of methods of attaching the tortilla support device 310 to the base plate 380. One skilled in the art could appreciate that the present invention contemplates other methods of connecting the tortilla support device 310 to the base plate 380. Further, the top wall 350 is integrally coupled to the sidewalls 360, 362, 364 and 366 and positioned above and parallel to the base wall 380. The top wall 350 is configured to provide a plurality of tortilla-receiving chambers 340, 342, 344 and 346. The tortilla support device 310 is shown with the tortilla-receiving chambers 340, 342, 344 and 346 disposed parallel to the first wall 320, however, one skilled in the art could appreciate there are a number of applicable positions that are still within the scope of the present invention. Also, FIG. 3 shows a tortilla support device 310 that is rigid (i.e., non-collapsible), thus when the contents of the housing are removed, the support device 310 is standing in operational position, or tortilla support position.
A user begins to operate the tortilla housing and [0025] support apparatus 300, by placing it on a surface, then detaching the top wall portion 331. The user now has access to the interior of the tortilla housing and support apparatus 300 and thus the tortilla support device 310. The user would then place tortillas within the tortilla-receiving chambers 340, 342, 344 and 346. As a result, tortillas are secured in the tortilla-receiving chambers 340, 342, 344 and 346, thereby providing lateral support from the lengthwise portions of the tortilla support device 310.
FIG. 4 illustrates yet another embodiment of a tortilla housing and [0026] support apparatus 400, having an interior non-collapsible tortilla support device 410, according to another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus 400, according to the present invention, comprises a generally rectangular housing having a first 420, second 422, third 424 and fourth 426 sidewalls, a base plate 480 and a top wall 430. The top wall 430 is configured to partially detach and permit a top wall portion 431 to hingedly move from the original plane of the top wall 430. In one embodiment the top wall portion 431 is outlined with perforations, by which a user may detach the top wall portion 431 as discussed above. The top wall portion 431 is integrally coupled to a detachable portion 421 of the first sidewall 420, or flap, 421, which also can be outlined with perforations operative to permit its detachment. In another embodiment of the present invention the detachable portion 421 of the first sidewall 420 provides a securement means so that it can securely re-engage the non-detachable portion of the first wall 420. The securement means may comprise an adhesive that provides for the re-attachment of the detachable portion 421. The securement means may also be a slot (not shown) positioned on the first sidewall 420, wherein the slot is structured to receive the flap 420.
Within the tortilla housing and [0027] support apparatus 400, a tortilla support device 410 is integrally disposed within the interior of the generally rectangular housing. The tortilla support device 410 comprises a first wall 470 (partially removed to show certain interior features), a second wall 460, a top wall 450 and a bottom wall 480 respectively. The tortilla support device 410 shares a common bottom surface with the generally rectangular housing, whereby the base plate 480 of the tortilla housing and support apparatus 400 serves as the bottom wall 480 to the tortilla support device 410. Thus, the sidewalls are integrally coupled directly to the base plate 480. The manner in which sidewalls 470 and 460 are coupled to the base plate 480 in the present embodiment is by flaps (not shown) extending from each sidewall 470 and 460. The flaps are permanently connected to the base plate 480. The method of attaching the tortilla support device 410 to the base plate 480, described herein, is not intended to limit the myriad of methods of attaching the tortilla support device 410 to the base plate 480. The present invention contemplates other methods of connecting the tortilla support device 410 to the base plate 480. Further, the top wall 450 is integrally coupled to the sidewalls 460 and 470 and positioned above and parallel to the base wall 480. The top wall 450 is configured to provide a plurality of tortilla-receiving chambers 440, 442, 444 and 446. The tortilla support device 410 is shown with the tortilla-receiving chambers 440, 442, 444 and 446 disposed parallel to the first wall 420, however, one skilled in the art could appreciate there are a number of applicable positions that are still within the scope of the present invention. Also, FIG. 4 shows a tortilla support device 410 that is rigid (i.e., non-collapsible), thus when the contents of the housing are removed, the support device 410 is standing in operational position, or tortilla support position.
A user begins to operate the tortilla housing and [0028] support apparatus 400, by placing it on a surface, then detaching the top wall portion 431. The user now has access to the interior of the tortilla housing and support apparatus 400 and thus the tortilla support device 410. The user would then place tortillas within the tortilla-receiving chambers 440, 442, 444 and 446. As a result, tortillas are secured in the tortilla-receiving chambers 440, 442, 444 and 446, thereby providing lateral support from the lengthwise portions of the tortilla support device 410.
FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of a tortilla housing and [0029] support apparatus 500, having an interior collapsible tortilla support device 510, according to another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus 500, according to the present invention, comprises a generally rectangular housing having a first 520, second 522, third 524 and fourth 526 sidewalls, a base plate 580 and a top wall 530. The top wall 530 is configured to partially detach and permit a top wall portion 531 to hingedly move from the original plane of the top wall 530. In another embodiment, the top wall portion 531 is outlined with perforations, by which a user may detach the top wall portion 531 as discussed above. The top wall portion 531 is integrally coupled to a detachable portion 521 of the first wall 531, or flap, 521, which also can be outlined with perforations operative to permit its detachment. In another embodiment of the present invention the detachable portion 521 of the first wall 531 provides a securement means so that it can securely re-engage the non-detachable portion of the first wall 531.
A [0030] tortilla support device 510, configured to be collapsible is shown in FIG. 5 in a generally flat storage position. The tortilla support device 510 is integrally disposed within the interior of the generally rectangular housing 502. The tortilla support device 510 comprises a first wall 560, a second wall 570, a top wall 550 and a bottom wall 580, respectively. The tortilla support device 510 shares a common bottom surface 580 with the generally rectangular housing, whereby the base plate 580 of the housing also serves as the bottom wall 580 to the tortilla support device 510. Thus, the sidewalls 560 and 570 of the tortilla support device 510 are integrally coupled directly to the base plate 580. The top wall 550 is configured to provide a plurality of tortilla-receiving chambers 540, 542, 544 and 546.
In order to properly secure the [0031] tortilla support device 510 in its upright tortilla support position, the fourth wall 570 is hingedly connected to the top wall 550 and extends downward there from. A hinged fold 571 connects the top wall 550 and the fourth wall 570, operating to allow the fourth wall 570 to rotate towards the bottom wall 550. Foldably connected to the fourth wall 570 is a tab 575 which is operative to extend through a tab-receiving slot (not shown) formed in the second outer wall 570A adjacent base wall 580 and be releasably secured in the slot (not shown). When the tortilla support device 510 is expanded from its current flat storage position to its upright tortilla support position (shown, for example, in FIG. 3), foldable tab 575 is bent inwards towards the second outer wall 570A and extended through the tab-receiving slot, thereby securing the tortilla support device 510 in its generally upright tortilla support position. The double wall formed by second outer wall 570A and flap 570 acts to prevent the tortilla support device 510 from pivoting about any of the hinged folds 561, 563, and 571. If and when, it is desired to collapse the tortilla support device 510 back to its generally flat storage position, show in FIG. 5, foldable tab 575 would be removed from the slot and the top wall 550 would be brought into contact with base wall 580 as hinged folds 561, 563, and 571 are pivoted. It is in this generally flat storage position that the tortilla support device 510 of this embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus 500, according to the present invention, would be stored and likely sold as an element of a box of packaged tortillas such as that commonly found in supermarkets.
Once an individual purchases a box of tortillas, the individual would take the tortillas to his or her domicile, prepare the tortillas according to the instructions provided by the tortilla manufacturer and prepare the tortilla filling ingredients, such as meat, refried beans, lettuce, onions, etc. As the tortillas are being cooked, the [0032] tortilla support device 510 of the present invention would be expanded from its generally flat storage position to the upright tortilla support position. Foldable tab 575 would then be folded towards the interior of the box and inserted into the receiving slot to support the box in the upright tortilla support position. Once all of the tortillas have been consumed, the tortilla support device 510 of the present invention may be returned to its generally flat storage position for later use, or the entire no-mess tortilla housing and support apparatus 500 maybe discarded.
FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of a tortilla housing and [0033] support apparatus 600, having an interior collapsible support device 610, according to another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus 600, according to the present invention, comprises a generally rectangular housing having a first 620, second 622, third 624 and fourth 626 sidewalls, a base plate 680 and a top wall 630. The top wall 630 is configured to partially detach and permit a top wall portion 631 to hingedly move from the original plane of the top wall 630. In one embodiment the top wall portion 631 is outlined with perforations, by which a user may detach the top wall portion 631 as discussed above. The top wall portion 631 is integrally coupled to a detachable portion of the first sidewall, or flap, (not shown), which also can be outlined with perforations operative to permit its detachment. In another embodiment of the present invention the detachable portion of the first wall (not shown) provides a securement means so that it can securely re-engage the non-detachable portion of the first wall 620.
A rigid, [0034] tortilla support device 610, in a generally upright tortilla support position, is integrally disposed within the interior of the generally rectangular housing. The tortilla support device 610 comprises a first wall 670, a second wall 672, a third wall 674, a fourth 676, a top wall 650 and a bottom wall 680, respectively. The tortilla support device 610 shares a common bottom surface with the generally rectangular housing. In other words, the base plate 680 of the housing also serves as the bottom wall 680 to the tortilla support device 610. Thus, the sidewalls are integrally coupled directly to the base plate 680. The top wall 650 is configured to provide a plurality of tortilla-receiving areas 640.
The [0035] tortilla support device 610 has a top wall 650 that is curved to provide additional support for a tortilla supported therein. Each of the tortilla-receiving areas 640 will be formed in the top wall 650 and would act to provide improved support for a tortilla supported therein as the edges of each tortilla receiving area 640 would engage the tortilla at a higher point, thus increasing the stability of support for the tortilla. Side walls 660 and 670 would provide additional support for the curved top wall 650 with 671, 672, and 673 on side wall 670 extending through slots 650A, 650B, and 650C formed in top wall 650 to secure the side wall 670 to top wall 650. Sidewall 660 would be secured to the top wall 650 in the same manner.
FIG. 7 illustrates yet another embodiment of a tortilla housing and [0036] support apparatus 700, having an interior collapsible support device 710. This embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus 700 comprises a generally rectangular housing having a first 720, a second 722, third 724 and fourth 726 sidewalls, a base plate 780 and a top wall 730. The top wall 730 is configured to partially detach and permit a top wall portion 731 to hingedly move from the original plane of the top wall 730. In another embodiment, the top wall portion 731 is outlined with perforations, by which a user may detach the top wall portion 731 as discussed above. The top wall portion 731 is integrally coupled to a detachable portion of the first sidewall 720, or flap, (not shown), which also can be outlined with perforations operative to permit its detachment. In another embodiment of the present invention the detachable portion of the first wall 731 provides a securement means so that it can securely re-engage the non-detachable portion of the first wall 731.
A [0037] tortilla support device 710, in a generally flat storage position, is integrally disposed within the interior of the generally rectangular housing. The tortilla support device 710 comprises a first wall, a second wall 760, a third wall, a fourth 770, a top wall 750 and a bottom wall 780, respectively. The tortilla support device 710 shares a common bottom surface with the generally rectangular housing. In other words, the base plate 780 of the housing also serves as the bottom wall 780 to the tortilla support device 710. Thus, the sidewalls are integrally coupled directly to the base plate 780. The top wall 750 is configured to provide a plurality of tortilla-receiving areas 740, 742 and 744.
In order to properly secure the [0038] tortilla support device 710 in its upright tortilla support position, the fourth wall 770 is hingedly connected to the top wall 750 and extending downwards there from. The hinged fold 776 connecting top wall 750 and fourth wall 770 operates to allow the fourth wall 770 to rotate towards the bottom wall 750. Foldably connected to the fourth wall 770 is a tab 775 which is operative to extend through a tab-receiving slot (not shown) formed in the second outer wall 770A adjacent base wall 780. Tab 775 may be releasably secured in the tab-receiving slot (not shown).
When the [0039] tortilla support device 710 is expanded from its current flat storage position to its upright tortilla support position (shown, for example, in FIG. 6), foldable tab 775 is bent inwards towards the second outer wall 770A and extended through the tab-receiving slot, thereby securing the tortilla support device 710 in its generally upright tortilla support position. The double wall formed by second outer wall 770A and flap 770 acts to prevent the tortilla support device 710 from pivoting about any of the hinged folds 761, 763, and 771. Sidewalls 760 and 770 provide additional support for the curved top wall 750 and are secured to the top wall 750 in the same manner as that described for curved top wall 650 in FIG. 6. If, and when, it is desired to collapse the tortilla support device 710 back to its generally flat storage position, show in FIG. 7, foldable tab 775 would be removed from the slot and the top wall 750 would be brought into contact with base wall 780 as hinged folds 761, 763, and 771 are pivoted. It is in this generally flat storage position that the tortilla support device 710 of this embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus 700, according to the present invention, would be stored and likely sold as an element of a box of packaged tortillas such as that commonly found in supermarkets.
FIG. 8 illustrates yet another embodiment of a tortilla housing and [0040] support apparatus 800, having an interior collapsible tortilla support device 810, according to another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment of a tortilla housing and support apparatus 800, according to the present invention, comprises a generally rectangular housing having a first 820, second 822, third 824 and fourth 826 sidewalls, a base plate 880 and a top wall 830. The top wall 830 is configured to partially detach and permit a top wall portion 831 to hingedly move from the original plane of the top wall 830. In one embodiment the top wall portion 831 is outlined with perforations, by which a user may detach the top wall portion 831 as discussed above. The top wall portion 831 is integrally coupled to a detachable portion 821 of the first sidewall 820, or flap, 821, which also can be outlined with perforations operative to permit its detachment. In another embodiment of the present invention the detachable portion 821 of the first sidewall 820 provides a securement means so that it can securely re-engage the non-detachable portion of the first wall 820. The securement means may comprise an adhesive that provides for the re-attachment of the detachable portion 821. The securement means may also be a slot (not shown) positioned on the first sidewall 820, wherein the slot is structured to receive the flap 820.
Within the tortilla housing and [0041] support apparatus 800 is a collapsible tortilla support device 810 integrally disposed within the interior of the generally rectangular housing. The tortilla support device 810 collapses laterally as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9. Lateral collapsing of the tortilla support device 810 provides for efficient storage of the tortilla support device 810 and provides the user with maximum usage of the tortilla-housing interior as a packaging storage device. The tortilla support device 810 comprises a first wall 870, a second wall 860, a top wall 850 and a bottom wall 880 respectively. The top wall 850, of the tortilla support device 810, is pleated and collapses laterally in an accordion style until the tortilla support device 810 is laterally compressed compactly up against the fourth sidewall 826 as illustrated in FIG. 9. The tortilla support device 810 shares a common bottom surface with the generally rectangular housing, whereby the base plate 880 of the tortilla housing and support apparatus 800 serves as the bottom wall 880 to the tortilla support device 810. When the top plate 850 is completely extended, the tortilla support device 810 resembles the tortilla support device illustrated in FIG. 4. With the top plate 850 completely extended, the first wall 870 of the tortilla support device 810 is connected to the base plate 880 by way of latching a connection flap 874 into a connection slot 872 configured into the base plate 880. The second wall 840 in one embodiment is permanently abutted up against the fourth sidewall 826 of the tortilla housing. In an alternative embodiment, the second wall 860 of the tortilla support device 810 is connected to the base plate 880 and the first wall 870 is permanently abutted up against the second sidewall 822 of the tortilla housing. The method of attaching the tortilla support device 810 to the base plate 480, and the tortilla housing 800 described herein, is not intended to limit the myriad of methods of attaching the tortilla support device 810 to the base plate 880 and tortilla housing 800. The present invention contemplates other methods of connecting the tortilla support device 810 to the base plate 880 and tortilla housing 800. Further, the top wall 850 is integrally coupled to the sidewalls 860 and 870 and positioned above and parallel to the base wall 880 when the top wall 850 is fully extended. The tortilla support device 810 is shown partially extended in FIG. 8. When fully extended, the top wall 850 of the tortilla support device 810 is configured to provide a plurality of tortilla-receiving chambers 840, 842, 844 and 846 disposed parallel to the first wall 820. However, one skilled in the art could appreciate there are a number of applicable positions for the tortilla-receiving chambers 840, 842, 844 and 846 that are still within the scope of the present invention.
A user begins to operate the tortilla housing and [0042] support apparatus 800, by placing it on a surface, then detaching the top wall portion 831. The user now has access to the interior of the tortilla housing and support apparatus 800 and thus the tortilla support device 810. The user would then have to decompress the tortilla support apparatus 810 from its space saving position illustrated in FIG. 9. When the tortilla support apparatus is fully extended and stabilized by placing tab 874 into the connection slot 872 configured into the base plate 880, the tortillas may be positioned within the fully conformed tortilla-receiving chambers 840, 842, 844 and 846, thereby providing lateral support from the lengthwise portions of the tortilla support device 810.
While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various other changes in the form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The foregoing description of the exemplary embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. It is intended that the scope of the invention be limited not with this detailed description, but rather by the claims appended hereto. [0043]

Claims

We claim:

1. An tortilla packaging box, comprising:

a base plate;

oppositely disposed first and second sidewalls, integrally coupled to a first and second end of the base plate, respectively;

oppositely disposed third and fourth sidewalls, integrally coupled to a third and fourth end of the base plate, respectively;

a top plate disposed, opposite the base plate, and integrally coupled to the first, second, third, and fourth sidewalls; and

wherein the top plate includes at least one perforated region configured to allow openings to be formed in the top plate.

2. The packaging box of claim 1, wherein the at least one perforated region of the top plate is a detachable perforated region defined by a closed set of perforations, wherein the perforations are disposed so as to generally form an elongated shape in a desired location.

3. The packaging box of claim 2, wherein the at least one perforated region of the top plate forms an elongated oval.

4. The packaging box of claim 2, wherein the at least one perforated region of the top plate further comprises a perforated tab portion, operative to provide for detachment of the entire at least one perforated region.

5. The packaging box of claim 2, wherein after the at least one perforated region of the top plate is detached, the packaging box provides at least one tortilla receiving chamber, defined by portions of the top plate which detachably engage the at least one perforated region, operative to provide support to at least one tortilla.

6. The packaging box of claim 2, wherein the at least one perforated region of the top plate wherein the first side wall comprises a singular first and second portion, hingedly coupled to the base plate and top plate, respectively, and wherein further the second portion engages the first portion to secure the second portion to the first portion.

7. The packaging box of claim 6, wherein the engagement of the first portion to the second portion is performed by a tab integrally coupled to the second portion, wherein the first portion has an adhesive applied thereto for securing the first portion to the second portion.

8. The packaging box of claim 6 wherein the engagement of the first portion to the second portion is performed by a flap integrally coupled to the second portion, wherein the first portion has a slit therein that is positioned for receiving the flap and thereby securing the second portion to the first portion.

9. A tortilla packaging and support apparatus, for providing vertical support to at least one tortilla, comprising:

a base plate;

oppositely disposed third and fourth sidewalls, integrally coupled to a third and fourth end of the base plate, respectively; and

a top plate disposed opposite the base plate and integrally coupled to the first, second, third, and fourth sidewalls;

wherein the top plate includes at least one perforated depressible region that creates a tortilla-receiving chamber when depressed, whereby a tortilla is supportably maintained.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the at least one perforated depressible region on the top plate comprises oppositely disposed first and second portions, wherein the first portion is hingedly coupled to top plate along a first edge and the second portion is hingedly coupled to top plate along a second edge, respectfully, wherein the first portion and second portions are coupled to each other along a perforated linear region and coupled to the top plate in a perforated manner along all other edges except the first edge and the second edge.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein when force is applied to the perforated linear region of the depressible region, the first and second portions hingedly deflect so as to be disposed within the tortilla housing and support apparatus, operative to provide internal, vertical support to a tortilla.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the depressible region further comprises a second perforated linear region that is perpendicularly disposed to the perforated linear region, at a first end of the perforated linear region, wherein further a third perforated linear region is perpendicularly disposed to the perforated linear region, at a second end of the perforated linear region.

13. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the depressible region is substantially an elongated oval.

14. A tortilla packaging and support apparatus, comprising:

a rectangular housing, comprising a base wall, a first, second, third and fourth sidewalls integrally coupled to the base wall, a top wall, opposite the base wall and integrally coupled to the first, second, third and fourth sidewalls, wherein the rectangular housing is configured to allow at least a portion of the top wall to be removed;

a tortilla support device, disposed within the rectangular housing, comprising opposing inner first and second walls and a first an inner top wall integrally coupled to the inner first and second walls, wherein the inner top wall is positioned opposite the base wall; and

at least one tortilla-receiving slot formed in the inner top wall for receiving and supporting a tortilla shell.

15. The tortilla packaging and support apparatus of claim 14, wherein the top wall of the rectangular housing includes a detachable region, operative to provide access to an interior of the tortilla housing and the tortilla support device.

16. The tortilla packaging and support apparatus of claim 14, wherein the top wall of the housing is configured with a perforated region, operative to allow at least a portion of the top wall to be removed.

17. The tortilla packaging and support apparatus of claim 14, wherein the inner top wall of the tortilla support device is convexly curved such that the center of the inner top wall is spaced further from the base wall than the ends of the inner top wall, the curved top wall operative to provide improved support for tortillas.

18. The tortilla packaging and support apparatus of claim 14, wherein the tortilla support device includes opposing inner third and fourth walls and an inner base wall wherein the opposing inner first and second walls and the opposing inner third and fourth walls are operatively attached to and inner base wall, wherein the inner base wall is secured to the base wall.

19. The tortilla packaging and support apparatus of claim 14, wherein the tortilla support device is collapsible to a flat storage position.

20. The tortilla packaging and support apparatus of claim 18, wherein the tortilla support device includes a flap having flap securement means mounted thereon, the flap foldably connects to a portion of the inner base, the flap securement means operative to secure the flap to the inner top wall thereby securing the tortilla support device in an upright tortilla support position.

21. The tortilla packaging and support apparatus of claim 14, wherein the tortilla support device collapses laterally.

22. The tortilla packaging and support apparatus of claim 14, wherein the top wall of the tortilla support device is pleated and provides for lateral collapsing of the tortilla support device.