HK1252833A1 - Packaging container having a secure closure mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

A packaging container having a secure closure includes a base section and a cover section, with the cover section adapted to cover said base section when in a closed state. The closure mechanism includes a first aperture formed within an inner wall segment of the base section and a second aperture formed within an outer wall segment of the base section. A projection extends inwardly from a side wall portion of the cover section for engaging the first and second apertures of the base section, wherein the closure mechanism retains the cover section over the base section and securing the packaging container in a closed position.

Description

Packaging container with a secure closure mechanism

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a packaging container, and more particularly, to a flip-type packaging container. Clamshell packages are used to securely hold or store items.

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application No. 13/844,669 filed on 3, 15, 2013, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, and claims priority thereto.

Disclosure of Invention

The packaging container includes a base portion defining a chamber with spaced apart inner and outer wall sections, wherein the outer wall section includes at least one aperture formed therein and a laterally extending flange extending therefrom. At least one recess is formed in the outer wall section, wherein at least one aperture is formed in the at least one recess.

The packaging container further comprises a lid portion having a side wall portion defining a lid; the cover is pivotally coupled to the base and configured to pivot between an open state and a closed state. At least one inward projection is formed in the side wall portion of the cover portion and is shaped to correspond to at least one recess formed in the outer wall section of the base portion. At least one projection is formed within the at least one inward projection and extends inwardly from the wall section of the lid portion for engaging at least one aperture formed within the outer wall section of the base portion, thereby retaining the lid portion over the base portion and securing the packaging container in the closed position.

The concave surface formed in the lid portion extends toward the at least one first aperture formed in the inner wall section of the base portion when the package container is in the closed position such that when the deformable flange is depressed, movement of the inner wall section is impeded by the concave surface preventing release of the protrusion from the at least one first aperture and the at least one second aperture.

Drawings

Fig. 1A is a perspective view of a packaging container with the packaging container opened according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 1B is a front view of the packaging container of fig. 1A in an open configuration.

Fig. 1C is an end view of the packaging container of fig. 1A in an open configuration.

Fig. 1D is a front view of the packaging container of fig. 1A with the packaging container closed.

Fig. 1E is a side view of the packaging container of fig. 1A in a closed state.

Fig. 1F is an end view of the packaging container of fig. 1A in a closed state.

Fig. 1G is an end view of the packaging container of fig. 1A in a closed state with the flange depressed.

Fig. 1H shows a plurality of packaging containers in a stacked configuration.

Fig. 2A is a front view of an alternative embodiment of a packaging container according to the invention in an open configuration.

Fig. 2B is an end view of the packaging container of fig. 2A in an open configuration.

Fig. 2C is a front view of the packaging container of fig. 2A, with the packaging container closed.

Fig. 2D is a side view of the packaging container of fig. 2A in a closed state.

Fig. 2E is an end view of the packaging container of fig. 2A in a closed state.

Fig. 2F is a view of an alternative embodiment of the packaging container of fig. 2A in an open configuration.

Fig. 3A is a perspective view of a packaging container according to another embodiment of the present invention, in which the packaging container is opened.

Fig. 3B is a front view of the packaging container of fig. 3A in an open configuration.

Fig. 3C is an end view of the packaging container of fig. 3A in an open configuration.

Fig. 3D is a front view of the packaging container of fig. 3A with the packaging container closed.

Fig. 3E is a side view of the packaging container of fig. 3A in a closed state.

Fig. 3F is an end view of the packaging container of fig. 3A in a closed state.

Fig. 4A to 4D show an assembled view, a bottom view, a lid view and an assembled top view of an alternative embodiment of the packaging container.

Fig. 5A to 5B show a side view and an enlarged side view of a locked packaging container according to additional embodiments.

Fig. 5C to 5D show perspective and side views of an alternative locked packaging container according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 5E to 5F show enlarged views of the locking mechanism of the packaging container.

Fig. 6A to 6C show a perspective view of the packaging assembly with the separator plate in an open state, a perspective view of the packaging assembly with the separator plate in a partially closed state, and a side view of the packaging assembly in a closed state.

Fig. 7A-7C show top open, perspective open and closed views of a package assembly having a plurality of compartments.

Fig. 8A-8C show an open perspective, side and side view of the packaging assembly with the bracket.

Figures 9A to 9C show an open perspective, side open and side closed view of the package assembly.

Fig. 10A-10C show an open perspective, side open and side elevational view of a packaging assembly with compartments and a bracket.

Detailed Description

Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Fig. 1A shows a perspective view of a packaging container 10 according to this embodiment of the packaging container, wherein the packaging container 10 is opened to contain the desired contents. Fig. 1B is a front view of the packaging container of fig. 1A in an open configuration. Fig. 1C is an end view of the packaging container of fig. 1A in an open configuration. Fig. 1D, 1E and 1F are front, side and end views of the packaging container 10 in the closed state. Fig. 1H shows a plurality of packaging containers 10 in a stacked configuration.

The packaging container 10 includes a base 20 having a compartment 25 defined by a peripheral wall 30. The peripheral wall 30 forms the periphery of the chamber 25 and is integrally formed by spaced apart inner wall segments 30a and outer wall segments 30b that are adjoined by a top flange 30 c.

To facilitate secure closure of the packaging container 10, the outer wall section 30b comprises at least one recess 40 formed therein. At least one aperture 42 is formed in the recess 40 for engaging an inwardly projecting portion formed on the cover 50, as will be discussed in detail below. In some embodiments, a plurality of holes 42 may be included. At least one additional aperture 43 aligned with aperture 42 may also be formed in the inner wall segment 30a of the peripheral wall 30. The top rim 30c also includes a scalloped area 44 formed therein adjacent the recess 40 formed in the outer wall section 30b to facilitate release of the cover portion 50. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a laterally extending flange 45 extends from the outer wall section 30 b.

The packaging container 10 further includes a lid portion 50 pivotally coupled to the base portion 20 at a hinge 52. The lid portion 50 is configured to pivot about a hinge 52 between an open state and a closed state. Specifically, the cover portion 50 includes a top surface having a concave surface 77 and a side wall portion 54 integrally formed by the first and second side walls 55, 57 and the first and second end walls 58, 59. The side wall portion 54 defines a compartment cover 60 that fits over the base 20. The first sidewall 55 includes at least one inwardly projecting portion 65 shaped to correspond to the recess 40 formed in the outer wall section 30b of the peripheral wall 30. In addition, a post 67 projects from the inward projection 65. In one embodiment, post 67 includes an angled edge 67a and a top edge 67 b. The posts 67 are adapted to engage the corresponding holes 42 and 43. The peripheral flange 70 extends horizontally from the periphery of the lid portion 50 such that the peripheral flange 70 abuts the flange 45 of the base portion 20 when the packaging container 10 is in the closed position. The peripheral flange 70 includes a cut-out region 71 adjacent the inward projection 65, as will be discussed below.

To provide a securely closed, yet user-friendly container, the packaging container 10 includes features that allow for easy one-handed opening. Specifically, laterally extending flange 45 is deformable such that when flange 45 is pressed in region 75 adjacent recess 40 of outer wall section 30b, outer wall section 30b and inner wall section 30a move inwardly, as shown in fig. 1G, thereby releasing posts 67 from holes 42 and 43 and opening packaging container 10. The peripheral flange 70 comprises a cut-out area 71 at the inwardly projecting portion 65 of the side wall portion 54 so as to provide an unobstructed passage at an area 75 of the base portion 20 for depressing the deformable flange 45 for opening the packaging container 10. The scallops 44 facilitate inward movement of the outer wall sections 30b and inner wall sections 30a by ensuring that movement is not impeded by the concave surface 76 of the top surface.

Flanges 45 and 70 each include a hang opening 72a, 72b formed at one side so that packaging container 10 may be hung and held in a display stand for storage or sale of the articles contained in packaging container 10. When the packaging container 10 is in the closed position, the suspension openings 72a and 72b are aligned with each other. The hanging openings 72a and 72b are formed by circular holes, linear grooves or a combination so that the packaging container 10 can be hung on any display shelf having a circular shelf bar or a thin plate-like shelf bar. Thus, the packaging container 10 can be hung on a display rack through the hanging openings 72a and 72 b. In an alternative embodiment, the packaging container may comprise only one suspension opening 72 a.

As shown in fig. 1H, the packaging container 10 includes a concave surface 76 serving as a receiving area formed in the top surface of the cover portion 50. The recessed surface 76 receives and holds the bottom 77 of another packaging container 10 to allow a stable stacking arrangement.

Fig. 2A to 2E show additional embodiments of the packaging container 10. In this embodiment the packaging container is elongate in order to accommodate items such as fishing lures. For example, the packaging container may be about 4.5' x 1 "x", about 5.75 "x 1, or about 7 x 1 in size. Fig. 2A is a front view of the packaging container 10 in the open position. Fig. 2B is an end view of the packaging container 10, wherein the packaging container 10 is opened to contain the contents. Fig. 2C, 2D and 2E are front, side and end views of the packaging container 10 in the closed position.

For simplicity, fig. 2A to 2E include reference numerals corresponding to those described in fig. 1A to 1H. Similar elements designated by corresponding reference numerals will not be described in detail. However, as further shown in fig. 2E, the packaging container 10 may include mating features such as an O-shaped recess 172 formed in the base 20 and a corresponding protrusion 173 formed in the lid 50. The shape or configuration of the mating features may vary and are surrounded by a space 174 so that a portion of the article may be held in place by the mating components when the article is in the container 10.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 3A-3F, the packaging container 110 is shown as a base 120 having a compartment 125 defined by a peripheral wall 130. The peripheral wall 130 forms the periphery of the chamber 125 and is integrally formed by spaced apart inner wall segments 130a and outer wall segments 130b that are adjoined by a top flange 130 c. The peripheral wall 130 extends along three sides of the base 120 and includes an open end 132. Further, the compartment 125 includes a plurality of wells 123 formed in the bottom surface 126 for receiving items to be stored within the packaging container 110.

Similar to the previously described embodiments, to facilitate secure closure of the packaging container 110, the outer wall section 130b comprises at least one recess 140 formed therein. An aperture 142 is formed in the recess 140 for engaging a protrusion formed on the cover portion, as will be discussed in detail below. At least one additional aperture 143 aligned with aperture 142 may also be formed in inner wall section 130a of peripheral wall 130. A laterally extending flange 145 extends from the outer wall section 130 b.

The packaging container 110 also includes a panel 146 pivotally attached to the base 120 at a hinge or pivot axis 151. The plate 146 includes a plurality of holes 148 formed therein for alignment with the plurality of wells 123 formed in the bottom surface 126. Plate 146 is adapted to secure items located in well 123. When the plate 146 is in the open position, items may be placed in the wells 123. Plate 146 may then be pivoted about hinge or pivot axis 151 such that the plate is parallel to floor 126 and aperture 148 is aligned with well 123. Alternatively, the plate 146 may be closed first, allowing an item, such as a long cylindrical item, to be placed through the hole 148 and into the well 123. The plate 146 and the aperture 148 may provide support for holding these items within the well 123. Plate 146 includes a ledge 149 that abuts ribs 124 of chamber 125, thereby holding plate 146 in a position parallel to the bottom surface of chamber 125. Once the panels are in the closed position, the cover 150 may be pivoted over the base 120, as described below.

The cover 150 is pivotally coupled to the base 120 at a hinge 152. The lid 150 is configured to pivot about a hinge 152 between an open state and a closed state. Specifically, the cover 150 includes a side wall portion 154 integrally formed by first and second side walls 155, 157 and first and second end walls 158, 159. The sidewall portion 154 defines a compartment cover 160 that fits over the base 120. The first sidewall 155 includes at least one inward projection 165 shaped to correspond to the recess 140 formed in the outer wall segment 130b of the peripheral wall 130. In addition, a post 167 projects from the inward projection 165. The posts 167 are adapted to engage the corresponding apertures 142. The peripheral flange 170 extends horizontally from the periphery of the cover 150 such that the peripheral flange 170 abuts the flange 145 of the base 120 when the packaging container 110 is in the closed position. The peripheral flange 170 includes a cut-out region 171 adjacent the inward projection 165, as will be discussed below.

As discussed with respect to the embodiment of fig. 1A-2E, to provide a securely closed but user-openable container, the packaging container 110 includes features that allow for easy one-handed opening. Specifically, referring to fig. 3B, the laterally extending flange 145 is deformable such that when the flange 145 is pressed in the area 175 adjacent the recess 140 of the outer wall segment 130B, the outer wall segment 130B moves inwardly, thereby releasing the posts 167 from the apertures 142 and/or 143 and opening the packaging container 110. The peripheral flange 170 of the cover portion 150 includes a cut-out region 171 at the inward projection 165 of the side wall portion 154 to provide unobstructed access for depressing the deformable flange 145 of the base portion 120 for opening the packaging container 110 in the closed position. A scalloped area 144 is also formed adjacent to the recess 140 formed in the outer wall section 130b to facilitate release of the cover portion 150, as shown in fig. 3A.

Fig. 4A to 4D show additional embodiments, wherein the packaging container 210 comprises a base part 220 and a separate cover part 250. Fig. 4A to 4D show an assembled view, a bottom view, a lid view and an assembled top view of the packaging container 210. To facilitate secure closure of the packaging container 210, the base 220 includes at least one recess 240 formed therein. An aperture 242 is formed in the recess 240 for engaging a protrusion formed on the cover 250, as will be discussed in detail below. At least one additional hole aligned with the hole 242 may also be formed in the base 220. A laterally extending flange 245 is also provided. The cover 250 includes a sidewall portion 254 having at least one inwardly projecting portion 265 that is shaped to correspond to the recess 240 formed in the peripheral wall 230 of the base 220. Additionally, a post 267 protrudes from the inward projection 265. The posts 267 are adapted to engage corresponding apertures 242. The peripheral flange 270 extends horizontally from the periphery of the lid 250 such that the peripheral flange 270 abuts the flange 245 of the base 220 when the packaging container 210 is in the closed position. The peripheral flange 270 includes a cut-out region 271 adjacent the inward projection 265, as shown in FIG. 4D.

The laterally extending flange 245 is deformable such that when the flange 245 is pressed in the region 275 adjacent the recess 240, the outer and inner segments of the peripheral wall 230 move inwardly, thereby releasing the post 267 from the aperture 242 (and any additional apertures) and opening the packaging container 210. The peripheral flange 270 of the cover 250 includes a cut-out region 271 at the inward projection 265 of the side wall portion 254 to provide an unobstructed passage for depressing the deformable flange 245 of the base 220 for opening the packaging container 210. As shown in fig. 4D, the packaging container 210 comprises corresponding elements on each side thereof such that the cover part 250 is released from the base part 220 when both the first and second areas 275 are depressed.

Fig. 5A-5B show side and enlarged side views of a lockable packaging container 310 according to additional embodiments. The packaging container 310 includes a locking mechanism that is not easily opened. Specifically, the packaging container 310 includes elements corresponding to those of the packaging container 10. Further, the packaging container 310 comprises at least one blocking member for preventing the packaging container 310 from being opened. In particular, the packaging container 310 comprises a blocking member in the form of a concave surface 376 formed in the cover portion 350, which extends towards the hole 343 formed in the inner wall section 330a of the base portion 320 when the packaging container 310 is in the closed position. The laterally extending flange 345 is deformable such that when the flange 345 is pressed in a region 375 of the outer wall segment 330b adjacent the recess 340, the outer wall segment 330b moves inwardly toward the inner wall segment 330 a. However, since the concave surface 376 is formed in the top surface and extends adjacent to the aperture 342 of the inner wall section 330a, movement of the inner wall section 330a is impeded by the concave surface 376. Thus, the post 367 is not released from the holes 342 and 343, and the cover 350 remains secured in the closed position over the base 320.

As shown in fig. 5C-5F, the lockable packaging container 310 can additionally include a blocking member in the form of a tab 312 extending from a top or recessed surface 376 adjacent to the post 367 of the cover portion 350. In particular, fig. 5C to 5D show perspective and side views of a locked packaging container 310 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5E to 5F show enlarged views of the locking mechanism of the packaging container 310. As discussed above, the laterally extending flange 345 is deformable such that when the flange 345 is pressed in the region 375 of the outer wall segment 330b, the outer wall segment 330b moves inwardly toward the inner wall segment 330 a. However, since the concave surface 376 and the protrusion 312 extend adjacent to the aperture 343 of the inner wall section 330a, movement of the inner wall section 330a is impeded by the concave surface 312. Thus, the post 367 is not released from the holes 342 and 343, and the cover 350 remains secured in the closed position over the base 320. In the embodiment shown in fig. 5F, post 367 is longer to further restrict movement of inner wall section 330a and prevent opening of packaging container 310.

Fig. 6A to 6C show perspective views of additional embodiments of packaging containers 410 in an open state, a partially closed state and a closed state. The packaging container 410 includes a base 420 having a chamber 425 defined by a peripheral wall 430. The peripheral wall 430 forms the perimeter of the chamber 425 and is integrally formed by spaced apart inner wall segments 430a and outer wall segments 430b that are adjoined by a top flange 430 c. The peripheral wall 430 extends along three sides of the base 420 and includes an open end 432. In addition, chamber 425 includes ribs 424 formed within inner wall section 430a of packaging container 410. Divider plate 446 having windows 448 formed therein is pivotally attached to base 420 at pivot shafts 447. When the plate 446 is in the open position, an article may be placed in the chamber 425. The plate 446 may then be pivoted about the pivot axis 447 such that the plate is parallel to the bottom surface 426 of the chamber 425, as shown in FIG. 6B. Alternatively, the plate 446 may be closed first, allowing items to be placed into the chamber 425 through the window 448. Plate 446 includes a rib 449 that abuts rib 424 of chamber 425, thereby maintaining plate 446 in a position parallel to the bottom surface of chamber 425. Once the panels are in the closed position, the cover 450 may be pivoted over the base 420 at the shaft 452. As shown in fig. 6C, panel 446 creates first and second chambers 471 and 472 within packaging container 410. To facilitate a secure closure and easy opening of the packaging container 410, the packaging container 410 comprises elements corresponding to the elements discussed in relation to fig. 1A to 1F. The closing and releasing operate in a corresponding manner as described previously.

Specifically, to facilitate secure closure of packaging container 410, outer wall segment 430b includes at least one recess 440 formed therein. An aperture 442 is formed in the recess 440 for engaging an inward projection formed on the cover 450. At least one additional aperture 443 aligned with the aperture 442 may also be formed in the inner wall section 430 a. A scallop 444 is also formed therein adjacent to the recess 440 formed in the outer wall section 430b to facilitate release of the cover 450. The cover 450 includes at least one inwardly projecting section 465 shaped to correspond to the recess 440 formed in the outer wall section 430 b. Additionally, a post 467 projects from the inward projection 465 for engaging the corresponding apertures 442 and 443. The peripheral flange 470 extends horizontally from the periphery of the cover 450 such that the peripheral flange 470 abuts the flange 445 of the base 420 when the packaging container 410 is in the closed position.

Similar to the embodiment discussed in fig. 1A, to provide a securely closed but user-openable container, packaging container 410 includes features that allow for easy one-handed opening. In particular, the laterally extending flange 445 is deformable such that when the flange 445 is pressed in the region 475 adjacent the recess 440 of the outer wall section 430b, the outer wall section 430b and the inner wall section 430a move inwardly, thereby releasing the post 467 from the apertures 442 and 443 and opening the packaging container 410.

As shown in fig. 7A to 7C, the packaging container 510 may include a plurality of compartments. In particular, fig. 7A-7C illustrate top open, side open, end open and closed views of a package assembly having a plurality of compartments. The packaging container 510 includes a base 520 having a rib 524. The perimeter wall 530 extends along three sides of the base 520 and includes an open end 532. A compartment 546 having a bottom surface 551 and a lid 560 hinged thereto at an axis 548 is pivotally attached to the base 520 at a pivot axis 547. The compartment 546 includes a flange 549 that abuts the rim 524 of the base 520, thereby maintaining the compartment 546 in a position parallel to the bottom surface 526 of the base 520. Once the compartment 546 is in the closed position, the cover 550 can be pivoted over the base 520 at the shaft 520. As shown in fig. 7C, first and second chambers 571 and 572 are created above and below the compartment 546 within the packaging container 510. To facilitate a secure closure and easy opening of the packaging container 510, the packaging container 510 comprises elements corresponding to the elements discussed in relation to fig. 1A to 1F. The closing and releasing operate in a corresponding manner as described previously.

In particular, to facilitate secure closure of the packaging container 510, the outer wall section 530b comprises at least one recess 540 formed therein. Apertures 542 are formed in the recess 540 for engaging inward projections 565 formed on the cover 550. At least one additional aperture 543 aligned with aperture 542 may also be formed in the inner wall section 530 a. A scallop 544 is also formed therein adjacent to the recess 540 formed in the outer wall section 530b to facilitate release of the cover 550. The cover 550 includes at least one inward projection 565 shaped to correspond to the recess 540 formed in the outer wall section 530 b. Additionally, posts 567 project from the inward projections 565 for engaging corresponding holes 542 and 543. The peripheral flange 570 extends horizontally from the periphery of the cover 550 such that the peripheral flange 570 abuts the flange 545 of the base 520 when the packaging container 510 is in the closed position.

Similar to the embodiment discussed in fig. 1A, to provide a securely closed but user-openable container, the packaging container 510 includes features that allow for easy one-handed opening. Specifically, the laterally extending flange 545 is deformable such that when the flange 545 is pressed in a region 575 adjacent the recess 540 of the outer wall segment 530b, the outer wall segment 530b and the inner wall segment 530a move inwardly, thereby releasing the posts 567 from the holes 542 and 543 and opening the packaging container 510.

Fig. 8A to 8C each show an embodiment of a packaging container 610 with a holder 615 for supporting the packaging container 610. Specifically, fig. 8A to 8C show an open perspective view, a side view, and a side view of the packaging container 610. The elements of the packaging container 610 correspond to the elements described in connection with fig. 1A to 1G. Specifically, the packaging container 610 includes a base 620 and a lid 650 configured to pivot about a hinge 652 between an open state and a closed state. To provide a securely closed, yet user-friendly container, the packaging container 610 includes features that allow for easy one-handed opening. The laterally extending flange 645 is deformable such that when the flange 645 is pressed in the area 675 adjacent the recess 640 of the outer wall segment 630b, the outer wall segment 630b and the inner wall segment 630a (shown in FIG. 8A) move inwardly, thereby releasing the posts 667 from the apertures 642 and 643 and opening the packaging container 610. The peripheral flange 670 of the cover 650 includes an inward projection 665 that couples with the recess 640 of the base 620. The scallops 644 facilitate inward movement of the outer wall section 630b and the inner wall section 630a by ensuring that movement is not impeded by the concave surface 676 formed in the top surface.

The packaging container 610 further includes a bracket 615 extending from and pivotally coupled to the laterally extending flange 645 of the base 620 at a hinge 647. The bracket 615 includes a C-shaped portion 617 for engaging the notch 618 extending from the bottom surface 626 of the base 620. When the packaging container 610 is in the closed position, the holder 615 is rotated about the hinge 647 such that the notch 618 of the packaging container 610 fits within the C-shaped portion 617 of the holder 615. The flange 619 extends around the perimeter of the stent 615, thereby creating a stable base for the stent 615. Thus, the packaging container 610 is supported in an upright position by the stand 615.

Fig. 9A-9C show an open perspective view, a side open view, and a side closed view of a packaging assembly 710 having a bracket 715. The packaging container 710 comprises similar elements as described in connection with the embodiment shown in fig. 6A-6C. Specifically, packaging container 710 includes a chamber 725 having ribs 724 formed therein. The divider plate 746 is pivotally attached to the base 720 at pivot axis 747. In some embodiments, the divider 746 may include a window formed therein. When the plate 746 is in the open position, items may be placed in the chamber 725. Plate 746 can then be pivoted about pivot axis 747 so that the plate is parallel to bottom surface 726 of chamber 725. Alternatively, plate 746 may be closed first, allowing items to be placed into chamber 725 through the window. Plate 746 includes a flange 749 that abuts rib 724 of chamber 725, thereby holding plate 746 in a position parallel to the bottom surface of chamber 725. Once the panels are in the closed position, the cover 750 may be pivoted over the base 720 at the shaft 752. As shown in fig. 9C, the plate 746 creates first and second chambers 771 and 772 within the packaging container 710. To facilitate a secure closure and easy opening of the packaging container 710, the packaging container 710 comprises elements corresponding to the elements discussed in relation to fig. 1A to 1F. The closing and releasing operate in a corresponding manner as described previously.

Specifically, to facilitate secure closure of the packaging container 710, the outer wall section 730b includes at least one recess 740 formed therein. A hole 742 is formed in the recess 740 for engaging an inward projection formed on the cap 750. At least one additional aperture 743 aligned with aperture 742 may also be formed in the inner wall section 730 a. A scalloped portion 744 is also formed therein adjacent to the recess 740 formed in the outer wall section 730b to facilitate release of the cover 750. The cap 750 includes at least one inwardly projecting portion 765 shaped to correspond to the recess 740 formed in the outer wall section 730 b. Additionally, a post 767 projects from the inward projection 765 for engaging the corresponding apertures 742 and 743. The peripheral flange 770 extends horizontally from the periphery of the cover 750 such that the peripheral flange 770 abuts the flange 745 of the base 720 when the packaging container 710 is in the closed position.

To provide a securely closed, yet user-friendly container, the packaging container 710 includes features that allow for easy one-handed opening. In particular, the laterally extending flange 745 is deformable such that when the flange 745 is pressed in the region 775 adjacent the recess 740 of the outer wall section 730b, the outer wall section 730b and the inner wall section 730a move inwardly, thereby releasing the posts 767 from the holes 742 and 743 and opening the packaging container 710.

Further, at an end opposite the divider plate 746, the bracket 715 extends from and is pivotally coupled to a laterally extending flange 745 of the base 720 at a hinge 748. The bracket 715 includes a C-shaped portion 717 for engaging a notch 718 extending from a bottom surface 726 of the base 720. As described above, when plate 746 is in the open position, items may be placed in chamber 725. Plate 746 may then be pivoted about pivot axis 747 so that the plate is parallel to the floor of chamber 725. Plate 746 includes a flange 749 that abuts rib 724 of chamber 725, thereby holding plate 746 in a position parallel to the bottom surface of chamber 725. Once the panels are in the closed position, the cover 750 may be pivoted over the base 720 at the shaft 710, securing the packaging container in the closed position. The bracket 715 may then be rotated about the hinge 748 such that the notch 718 of the packaging container 710 fits within the C-shaped portion 717 of the bracket 715. A flange 719 extends around the perimeter of the support 615, thereby creating a stable base for the support 715. Thus, the packaging container 710 is securely supported in an upright position by the stand 715, as shown in fig. 9C.

Fig. 10A-10C show open perspective, side open and side views of additional embodiments of a packaging container 810 having a compartment 816 formed therein and including a stand 815. The elements of the packaging container 810 correspond to those described in connection with fig. 1A to 1G. Specifically, the packaging container 810 includes a base 820 and a cover 850 configured to pivot about a hinge 852 between an open state and a closed state. To provide a securely closed, yet user-friendly container, the packaging container 810 includes features that allow for easy one-handed opening. The laterally extending flange 845 is deformable such that when the flange 845 is pressed in the area 875 adjacent to the recess 840 of the outer wall segment 830b, the outer wall segment 830b and the inner wall segment 830a move inwardly, thereby releasing the posts 867 from the apertures 842 and 843 and opening the packaging container 810. The peripheral flange 870 of the cover 850 includes an inward projection 865 that couples with the recess 840 of the base 820. Sector 844 facilitates inward movement of outer wall section 830b and inner wall section 830a by ensuring that movement is not obstructed by concave surface 876.

The packaging container 810 also includes a bracket 815 that extends from and is pivotally coupled to the laterally extending flange 845 of the base 820 at a hinge 847. The bracket 815 includes a C-shaped portion 817 for engaging a notch 818 extending from a bottom surface 826 of the base 820. In addition, the bracket 815 includes a hollow interior portion forming a chamber 816 covered by a cover 812 pivotally coupled thereto. The lid portion 812 includes a recessed surface portion 827 for mating with the perimeter 828 of the chamber 816 to provide secure closure of the chamber 816. When the packaging container 810 and the compartment 815 are in the closed position, the stand 815 rotates about the hinge 847 such that the notch 818 of the packaging container 810 fits within the C-shaped portion 817 of the stand 815. A flange 819 extends around the perimeter of the chamber 815 and the cover 812, thereby creating a stable base for the stand 815. Thus, the packaging container 810 is supported in an upright position by a stand 815 that also includes a compartment 816 for storing additional items.

Hereinafter, a manufacturing process of the packaging container according to an embodiment of the present invention is described. The process will be described with reference to the embodiment of fig. 1A to 1G. However, it should be understood that the process is applicable to all embodiments disclosed herein. The packaging container 10 may be formed wholly or partially of a transparent material to allow a user to see into the packaging container. In particular, the packaging container 10 is manufactured using a thermoforming process. To create a protrusion such as a post 67 or other shape protrusion in the vertical or near vertical sidewall of a thermoformed package, a retractable tool component is incorporated into the tool that forms the package. These features may have various shapes and sizes.

The packaging container 10 is formed from a preheated sheet of thermoplastic material which is drawn into or over a mould to create the desired shape of the final product. After the material reaches a stable set point that is sufficiently rigid to be removed from the mold without losing the shape formed according to the mold, the sheet is withdrawn in the opposite direction from its entry into the mold. Typically, the sheet enters the mold and is removed from the mold in a vertical manner. The post 67 is formed using a retractable member, such as a cylinder or pin. The posts are in an extended position when the heated plastic sheet is drawn into the mold. Plastic is formed around the post, taking its shape. The post is then retracted until the surface of the post is flush with the sidewall of the mold. Thus, the post is removed so that the plastic product can be removed from the mold. Mechanical linkages and drive mechanisms may be used. Alternatively, a magnet, a cylinder, or the like may be employed. The time at which the protrusion of the component exits the side wall of the mould may be fine-tuned by being in a fully extended position before the heated material enters the mould and being activated just after entering the mould, but before the material cools beyond the point at which it can form around the component.

The apertures 42 and 43 are formed in the vertical or near vertical outer wall section 30b and inner wall section 30a of the wall 30. A punch and die mechanism is used to form the holes 42 and 43. The punch and die may mimic the profile of the formed post 67, but have a slightly larger profile to allow clearance and ease of insertion of the formed post 67 into the holes 42 and 43. Alternatively, the cut-outs may take on a different shape than the formed protrusions. For example, the formed protrusion may be a simple post, but the cutout may be oval. The function of the projections or posts 67 and the cut-outs or apertures 42, 43 is to prevent vertical opening of the lid portion 50 of the packaging container 10. Similarly, the holes 42, 43 may be circular and the protrusions may be star-shaped, octagonal, etc. The holes 42 and 43 are formed after the packaging container 10 is formed. Thus, the plastic is formed in a mold, which has been demolded and then cut to form the holes. In high volume production, cutting of the hole features occurs in a station between the forming station and the die cutting station. In the die cutting station, the flat surface of the plastic container is trimmed from the surrounding web of material so that the container can be removed from the remaining peripheral piece (leftover perimeter sheet).

The holes 42 and 43 may also be formed after the die cutting step, i.e. after removing the formed and die cut plastic parts from the surrounding remaining plastic sheet. The final step in the process is therefore to place the formed and die-cut packages in a mechanical device and then punch the holes. The holes may be formed by punching one hole at a time by a manually actuated device or by automatically loading and unloading the package in a punching mechanism by a fully automated system, punching all the holes in the package at one time. The holes can also be cut in the same station as the planar die cutting where the peripheral plastic takes place.

In use, an article is placed in the chamber 25 of the base 20. The cover 50 is then rotated to cover the base 20. At this point, the posts 67 and inward projections 65 engage the recesses 40 and corresponding apertures 42. Specifically, the posts 67 of the cover 50 pass through the holes 42 of the base 20, thereby securing the cover 50 to the base 20. Post 67 includes angled edge 67a and top edge 67 b. The posts 67 pass through the corresponding holes 42 to prevent the base 20 from being pivoted open. The aperture 43 is provided in the inner wall section 30a such that if the first side wall 55 is squeezed inwardly, the post 67 can pass through the aperture 43. Thus, inward deflection of the sidewall 55 does not cause the post 67 to disengage from the hole 42. To open the packaging container 10, the outer wall section 30b has to be deflected such that the posts 67 disengage from the corresponding apertures 42. In particular, the application of downward pressure to the deformable flange 45 in the region adjacent to the recess 40 causes such deflection of the outer wall section 30b, so that the posts 67 disengage from the corresponding apertures 42 and the container 10 is opened.

Typically, the post and hole engagement forms a locking feature that uses the shear strength of the post against which the wall of material forming the hole engages. The force required to separate the post from the hole is a function of the shear strength of the formed post and/or the tear strength of the punched hole, rather than a function of friction.

The downward force of the lid 50 over the closed base 20 drives the beveled or angled edge 67a down the wall of the package through the outer wall section 30b until the post "snaps" into the aperture. Since the posts and holes are formed in a 90 degree vertical wall, no additional material is required to form a secure closure of the packaging container 10.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments and the drawings, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and the drawings. It is to be understood that various modifications and changes may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (14)

1. A packaging container with a secure closure comprising:

a base having a bottom surface and spaced apart inner and outer wall sections, the outer wall section having a deformable flange extending laterally therefrom;

a cover portion having a top surface and a side wall portion, the cover portion adapted to cover the base portion in a closed state; and

a closure mechanism including at least one first aperture formed in an inner wall segment of the base and at least one second aperture formed in an outer wall segment of the base aligned with the at least one first aperture; at least one projection extending inwardly from a side wall portion of the lid portion for engaging at least one first aperture of the base portion and adapted to engage at least one second aperture of the base portion, the closure mechanism retaining the lid portion over the base portion and securing the packaging container in a closed position; and

a blocking member formed within the lid portion extending toward at least one first aperture formed within an inner wall segment of the base portion when the packaging container is in the closed position such that movement of the inner wall segment is impeded by the blocking member when the deformable flange is depressed, preventing release of the projection from the at least one first aperture and the at least one second aperture.

2. The packaging container of claim 1, wherein the blocking member is a concave surface formed in a top surface of the cover portion.

3. The packaging container according to claim 2, further comprising: at least one protrusion extending from the concave surface adjacent the at least one protrusion of the cover portion for further impeding movement of the inner wall segment.

4. The packaging container according to claim 1, further comprising: at least one recess formed within the outer wall section, wherein the at least one aperture is formed within the at least one recess.

5. The packaging container according to claim 4, further comprising: at least one inward projection formed in a side wall portion of the cover portion shaped to correspond to at least one recess formed in an outer wall section of the base portion, wherein the at least one protrusion is formed within the at least one inward projection.

6. The packaging container according to claim 5, further comprising: a peripheral flange extending laterally from a side wall portion of the lid portion, the peripheral flange adapted to contact the laterally extending flange of the base portion when the packaging container is in the closed position.

7. The packaging container of claim 1, wherein the at least one protrusion formed in the base is a post having an angled edge.

8. The packaging container according to claim 1, further comprising: a stand pivotally connected to the base, the stand providing support for supporting the packaging container.

9. The packaging container of claim 1 wherein the base includes a plurality of wells formed in a bottom surface of the base.

10. The packaging container according to claim 9, further comprising: a plate pivotally attached to the base, the plate including a plurality of holes formed therein for alignment with a plurality of wells formed in the bottom surface, the plate adapted to secure items located in the wells.

11. The packaging container according to claim 2, wherein the concave surface formed in the top surface of the lid portion forms a receiving area for holding a bottom wall of a base portion of a second packaging container, thereby allowing stacking of the packaging containers.

12. A closure mechanism for a packaging container, the packaging container having: a base having a bottom surface and spaced apart inner and outer wall sections, the outer wall section having a deformable flange extending laterally therefrom; a cover portion having a top surface, a side wall portion, and a blocking member formed therein, the cover portion adapted to cover the base portion in a closed state, the closing mechanism comprising:

at least one first aperture formed in the inner wall section of the base and at least one second aperture formed in the outer wall section of the base aligned with the at least one first aperture; at least one projection extending inwardly from a side wall portion of the cover portion for engaging the at least one first aperture of the base portion and adapted to engage the at least one second aperture of the base portion, the closure mechanism retaining the cover portion over the base portion and securing the packaging container in a closed position such that when the deformable flange is depressed, movement of the inner wall segment is impeded by the blocking member preventing release of the projection from the at least one first aperture and the at least one second aperture.

13. The closure mechanism of claim 12, wherein the blocking member is a concave surface formed within a top surface of the cover portion.

14. The closure mechanism of claim 13, further comprising: at least one protrusion extending from the concave surface adjacent the at least one protrusion of the cover portion for further impeding movement of the inner wall segment.