| Claims 1 ) Receptacle for waste article, such as used chewing gum or snuff, mainly constituting flexible panels of material such as paper, carton or thin plastics, constituting a back panel (2, 17) and two front panels (1 and 3, 16 and 18), whose planes, in the receptacle's unused state, are mainly parallel to one another; the receptacle exhibits an opening, through which a waste article (77) may be lead, defined by opposing opening edges (7 and 11, 22 and 25) of the two front panels, whereby the opening edges extend from and between the first and second ends of the opening edges, of which said first- and second ends of the first opening edge are arranged respectively in the same first and second areas/opening apices (12 andl3, 26 and 27) as said first- and second ends of the second opening edge; each front panel is attached to the back panel, at least partly, along a different peripheral portion of the front panel, the primary edge, which on each panel extends from and between said ends of the opening edge, whereby the receptacle exhibits a gap opening when pressure is applied onto said first- and second opening apex; further where the main portion of each panel's surface is situated on different sides of an imaginary straight line extending between said first and second opening apex (12 and 13, 26 and 27), characterized in that the entire opening edge (7 or 11, and 22 or 25) of one front panel (1 or 3, and 16 or 18) is overlapped by the overlying second front panel (3 or 1, and 18 or 16), while the receptacle is in its empty and closed state. 2) Receptacle made from flat, elastically bendable material comprising at least back panel (2, 17) and two front panels (1,3 ; 16, 18) which in the receptacle's folded and closed state lie onto one another in substantially parallel planes, whereby the entire, or close to entire, periphery/edge(s) (4, 5, 8, 9; 23) of the back panel is/are attached to front panel, further where the receptacle, in its open state, exhibits a gap opening, through where an article may be lead, defined by opposing opening edges (7, 11; 22, 25) of the two front panels, whereby the ends of the first and second front panel's opening edges are arranged in the substantially same first and second opposing areas/opening apices (12, 13; 26, 27) along the periphery of the back panel, whereby said first and second opening apices are situated such along/on the back panel's periphery that an imaginary straight line (103), which extends from the first apex (12, 26) to the second apex (13, 27), is longer than a parallel imaginary straight line (78, 79) extending between points on the back panel's periphery, in close vicinity to- and on each side of the opening apices (12, 13; 26, 27), further where the receptacle's front panels, when pressure is applied onto said opening apices, protrude concavely, up from the back panel, and away from one another such that a gap opening is exhibited between the opening edges, characterized in that the entire opening edge (7 or 11, and 22 or 25) of the one front panel (1 or 3, and 16 or 18) is overlapped by the overlying other front panel (3 or 1, and 18 or 16), while the receptacle is empty in its closed position. 3) Receptacle of claim 1 and/or 2, on which the opening edges (7, 11, 22, 25) of the front panels are curved such that, as the receptacle is brought to a closed state by a mere release of any applied pressure onto the first (12, 26) and second (13, 27) opening apices, after first having been brought to a maximal open state, the one front panel retreats into position, without obstruction, below and underneath the other front panel, such that the entire opening edge of the overlying front panel is visible when the receptacle is in its closed state. 4) Receptacle of any one of the above listed claims, in where the opening edge of the one front panel that is partly overlapped by the other, has a lower curvature than the opening edge of the one front panel that partly overlaps the other. 5) Receptacle of claim 1 and/or 2, whereby portion(s) of the first and second front panels' primary edges (4, 5, 6, 10, 21, 24) are attached to the periphery/edge(s) (23; 4, 5, 8, 9) of the back panel, through fold line (4, 5; 19, 20), whereby the first front panel's (1; 16) adjoining fold line (4; 19) is situated on such different edge/side (4; 19) of the back panel than the second front panel's (3; 18) adjoining fold line (5; 20), that the two said fold lines do not intersect, further where that portion (6; 21) of the first front panel's primary edge, that is not attached to the back panel through fold line (4; 19), is attached to the back panel, in any other approved manner, along another (portion) of the back panel's edge(s) (8; 23) that intersects with the first front panel's adjoining fold line (4; 19) and the remaining (6; 21) of the first front panel's primary edge, and where that portion (10; 24) of the second front panel's primary edge, that is not attached to the back panel through fold line (5; 20) is attached to the back panel in any other approved manner along that portion of the back panel's periphery/edges that is not attached to the first front panel's primary edge (4, 6; 21). 6) Receptacle according to any one of the other claims, of where a series of receptacles (89, 90, 91; 93, 94, 95) constitute one unitary blank (96; 97) whereby the receptacles are oriented such relative to one another that each receptacle, with the exception of the endmost receptacles in said series, adjoins to and is attached to another receptacle, through perforated line(s) (92) and/or extension flap(s) (98), along each one of those back panel edges that do not constitute a fold line (4, 5) of a front panel. 7) Receptacle of claim 1 and/or 2, whereby said receptacle, in such a tensioned/used state that its front panels are no longer substantially parallel to one another, surrounds a volume fully enclosed by its back panel (2, 17) and said two front panels (1, 3 and 18, 16). 8) Receptacle of claim 1 and/ or 2, whereby the entire opening edge of the underlying front panel, throughout the opening sequence, lies below and underneath the overlying opening edge, until a gap opening is exhibited. 9) Receptacle according to any one of the other claims, whereby at least one receptacle is attached onto a product, such as a pack of chewing gum (31, 36, 41, 46), a snuff box (55), beverage bottle (62), beverage can (63), multi-pack for beverage bottles or cans (70), or cigarette pack, for encapsulation of small waste article. 10) Receptacle of claim 1 and/or 2, whereby the opening edges (7, 11; 22, 25) of the front panels, throughout the opening sequence, gradually curve as pressure is applied onto the opening apices (12, 13; 26, 27), such that points (82) on the opening edge, that are farther from the, at any time, highest elevated point (80) on the curved opening edge, are elevated from the back panel (2), throughout the opening sequence, to a lesser extent than points (81) closer to the highest elevated point on the curved opening edge. |
The invention comprise a disposable packaging solution, primarily for small objects such as used chewing-gum, chewing tobacco and snuff (snus), that can easily be opened and closed using just one hand.
Littering of public and private spaces from small objects such as used chewing gum, snuff and cigarette butts, pose a significant and costly problem in larger cities. Due to its highly sticky nature, used chewing gum is especially difficult and costly to remove from pavements and the like. The fact that objects such as these are typically characterized by stickiness and/or a strong scent after use, make them unsuitable for carrying or storing unless they are properly wrapped and sealed. As a result, in the absence of nearby bins or trash-cans, the consumer sees few alternatives, when the need to dispose occurs, other than dropping the object onto the street. The invention addresses these issues through a disposable packaging solution that in a quick and easy way encapsulates the object so that it can securely be stored in the consumer's pocket or similar. The solution isolates the object from the environment, so that if it is dropped it will not stick to surrounding objects, hence conventional and very costly gum-removal methods are not required to remove the object.
The solution may also be used to encapsulate objects other than litter, such as nutritional supplements, pills, mints and other confectionary products. The solution may for example encapsulate a single dose of pills, so that one dose constituting different types of pills, can be stored within one packaging unit and handed to the patient for quick, convenient and easy consumption. Due to the superb functionality of the invention, the ease of use, and low costs in production, the invention is also suitable as packaging for numerous products/applications other than secure encapsulation and disposal of waste articles.
The packaging solution opens up when pressure is applied to two of its ends/corners, and closes when the pressure is released, so that an object intended for encapsulation is securely encapsulated within the packaging. The solution can be used as a separate individual unit for encapsulation of for example small waste articles such as chewing gum, cigarette butts or snuff (snus). It can also be attached to other products, preferably to products that constitute the waste source e.g. pack of chewing gum or snuff box. It may also be attached to, or placed strategically, in areas or situations where the need to dispose typically occurs, such as on cinema seats or beverage bottles.
The idea of small packaging solutions for encapsulation of used chewing gum is known as such. The idea of small pieces of paper attached to chewing gum packets for the wrapping of used chewing gum is also known.
GB2442460A presents a personal disposal solution for temporary storage of used chewing gum. The solution is small and thus suitable for carrying in a pocket until a suitable drop point is in sight. The solution constitutes several flat pieces of paper stacked together, where each piece can be wrapped around and thrown away with the used gum. The solution is not suitable for integration onto chewing gum packets; hence the solution is kept by the consumer as a separate unit until all the pieces of paper are used.
GB2409146B presents a container for temporary storing of used chewing gum. It describes a plastic bag with small pieces of paper attached to it. The bag is intended for secure storing of several pieces of used gum, and the attached paper wrappers are meant for wrapping the gum before it is stored in the bag. The bag is flame/heat resistant and is thus suitable for storing cigarette butts.
GB 2423296A describes disposable bags for encapsulation of used chewing gum. A "fold over and tuck", and "flip over flap" solution seals pieces of used gum inside the bag.
WO2006029049 describes a set of small pieces of paper for wrapping used chewing gum. The pieces are attached to chewing gum packets. Due to integration onto the gum packet itself, this solution requires less of an effort from the consumer as the gum packet and the solution can be kept and handled as one single unit. However, encapsulation of gum through manual folding/wrapping of a flat piece of paper is still not a fully satisfactory solution, as the gum is often not isolated sufficiently for the consumer to feel safe storing/carrying the wrapped gum.
US739022A describes a packaging solution made from flexible material, suitable for various different purposes or applications. The solution consists of a flat back panel with two front panels attached to it; an opening unfolds when pressure is applied to the corners of the connected panels. The solution is not considered to be fully satisfactory for the purpose of secure wrapping of (sticky) waste articles, as the solution does not self-close automatically and as it does not isolate the waste article properly.
US3183622A describes a self-closing structure that may be used as a container. The solution consists of two hollow pyramids that are connected to one another through a set of hinges. The two pyramids are connected to one another only on one panel of each pyramid, so that the other pyramid panels surround an opening that unfolds when pressure is applied to the corners of the solution. An elastic band is attached to two of the corners, on the inside of the solution, and allows it to automatically self-close when pressure is released. The solution does not provide sufficient closure/ isolation of enclosed content.
Objectives of the invention
A primary objective of the invention is to provide a disposable packaging solution that is easy in use at the same time as it provides secure and hygienic encapsulation of uneasy waste articles such as chewing gum and snuff so that waste articles, while enclosed within the solution, is completely and securely isolated from surrounding objects. To successfully diffuse the invention among the public and stimulate the consumer to use the solution on a regular basis, gaining the consumer's trust in the solution through uniform and stable functionality is key. Another important objective of the invention is to provide a fully functional solution that takes up minimal space, so that it is suitable for integration onto other products, e.g. source products such as chewing gum packets, with minimal impact/ interference with existing production lines or processes. A third objective of the invention is to provide a solution that is suitable for marketing purposes through means such as printing of logos and graphics etc, that it evokes customer interest and attention due to intriguing functionality and "fun- factor", and that it works as a strong element of differentiation with shelf impact, when attached to other products such as gum packets.
Description of the invention
The invention is a type of receptacle formed to exhibit an open and a closed position, constituting a back panel and an opening. The back panel is mainly a flat and flexible element. The back panel can be made from any material with such degree of rigidity, flexibility and elasticity, e.g. various types of paper and polymer, that the desired functionality is achieved. The back panel can be of any shape and size, such as for example square or circular.
The opening of the receptacle is defined by a first and a second front panel, of which both the first and the second front panel has at least one primary edge that is attached to the back panel on different sides/edges of the back panel along its periphery. If the back panel has a circular shape or similar, so that different sides/edges of the panel are difficult to define from one another, points along the periphery of the back panel that are situated mainly opposite of one another are considered to belong to different sides/edges of the back panel.
The entire periphery of the back panel may be attached to the primary edge of the first and/or the second front panel, in such a manner that there are no openings or gaps between back and front panels alongside the periphery of the back panel.
The first and the second front panel both have a secondary edge or opening edge that extends along another portion of the front panel's periphery than the primary edge. Secondary edges are not attached to the back panel. The first and the second front panel may partially overlap one another, when the receptacle is in its empty and closed state.
The entire opening edge of one front panel may very well be overlapped by the other overlying front panel, when the receptacle is in its empty and closed state. The term "entire" must here be understood as meaning at least 9/10 of the underlying opening edge.
The main portion of each of the two front panels may very well be situated on different sides of an imaginary straight line that extends from one end of the receptacle's opening to the other.
The receptacle is formed to exhibit a gap-opening when the receptacle is in its open state. The opening is, at least partly, defined by said opening edges when pressure is applied to the receptacle in those two areas along the back panel where both opening edges meet and connect to the back panel, hereby referred to. as the opening apices (apex). The receptacle can also be brought to an open state through pulling the first and the second front panels apart from one another. The opening edge may have any shape, but a convexly curved opening edge, as seen when the receptacle is in its closed and flat state with partly overlapping front panels, may prove beneficial in terms of the functionality of the receptacle.
The shape and size of the gap opening may vary according to the degree of pressure applied to the two opening apices. The gap opening may thus in the receptacle's widely open state take a circular or close to circular shape, hence by the general comprehension of the term gap, not any longer be a gap-opening.
The two opening apices are situated along the periphery of the back panel and are opposite of one another (on different, opposite sides of the back panel/ portions of the back panel's periphery), such that they on a small receptacle, can be pushed towards one another by for example thumb and index finger on the same hand.
When converging pressure is applied to the opening apices, or to any portions of the receptacle's periphery close to the opening apices, both the first- and the second front panel protrude up from the back panel, and the two front panels move from one another to reveal a gap opening between the opening edge of the first front panel and the opening edge of the second front panel.
The receptacle may also be brought to an open state through the means of a handle attached to one of the front panels, preferably the one that in the receptacle's empty and closed state is overlapped by the other, so that when the handle is pulled up and away from the front panel to which it is not attached, the opening edge of the attached underlying front panel is lifted up from the back panel at the same time as it lifts the overlying front panel up from the back panel so that a gap opening is revealed.
The receptacle may be formed such that an imaginary straight line, stretching from one opening apex to the other, is longer than an imaginary parallel line stretching between any two points on the periphery of the back panel, close to the opening apices, on each side of the opening apices, so that when the distance between the opening apices is reduced due to converging pressure, and because the primary edges of the front panels are attached to the back panel, the opening edges of the two front panels are lifted up from the back panel and away from one another.
The receptacle is in its open state when the gap opening is displayed. When the receptacle is in its open state, object(s) may be put through the gap opening and placed inside the receptacle.
The invention may be manufactured from any suitable material, such as paper and/or polymers, etc. Suitable materials have, without further specifications, such elasticity and stiffness that the receptacle exhibits a gap opening as described, when converging pressure is applied to the opening apices so that these are brought closer to one another, and/or when a handle attached to one of the front panels are pulled up and away from the front panel to which it is not attached. Suitable materials also have, without further specifications, such elasticity and stiffness that the receptacle is brought to its closed state when the applied pressure onto the opening apices is released and/or when said handle is released. When the receptacle is in its empty and closed state, its flat panels are mainly parallel or close to parallel to one another. Hence, the receptacle takes up minimal space and is thus suitable for integration onto other objects/products.
When the invention is configured with partly overlapping front panels, each front panel with convexly curved opening edges that together can define a gap opening, the curved opening edges of the first and the second front panel may very well have different degree of curve to them/ different radius, such that when the receptacle is brought to a closed position due to a release of applied pressure, the one front panel that has an opening edge with the stronger curve/smaller radius naturally recedes from open position back to and upon the front panel that has the least curved opening edge/ largest radius, partly overlapping this.
The invention provides a quick and easy way to securely encapsulate small objects such as pills, or small waste articles such as used chewing gum. The flat nature of the disposable receptacle makes it highly suitable for integration onto other objects/products such as chewing gum packets. The invention is easy in use, as the receptacle radically expands its internal volume when brought into open position through pressing the opening apices towards one another, and it closes when the pressure is reduced/ released. As the connection between the back panel and the two front panels can be made completely tight, through the use of for example glue along the edges of the back panel, that works as a water proof connection and barrier between the panels, the invention provides secure encapsulation of objects and/or viscous material. The fact that the two opening edges overlap one another in the receptacle's closed state, such that the two front panels are pushed towards one another, due to the elasticity of the panels and the construction of the receptacle, to create a tight seal in/around the opening area of the receptacle, also creates a barrier that prevents spillage of the content through the opening.
The receptacle may come as a separate individual unit, or it may be attached onto an object/product that constitutes the waste source, such as a pack of chewing gum, a snuff box or a pack of cigarettes. Or it may be attached to a place or situation where the need to dispose occurs, such as for example cinema seats, a beverage bottle, or an ashtray.
The receptacle is suitable for marketing purposes when decorated with logo or other printed graphics. The graphics can be printed on either the outside or the inside of the receptacle. As the inside is clearly visible when the receptacle is in its open state, the inside is highly suitable for printing of logos or advertising.
The inside of the receptacle may be coated with agents/ chemicals that react with the intended content, such as chewing gum, cigarette butt, or snuff, such that the encapsulated content is quickly decomposed. The receptacle's inside may also be coated with chemicals that engage with the intended content in other ways, such as smell absorbing chemical when the receptacle is used for the purpose of wrapping cigarette butts. When used for the encapsulation of moist objects, such as snuff or chewing gum, the receptacle may very well be coated with water absorbing agent or film, to prevent liquid from seeping out of the receptacle.
When intended for the purpose of encapsulating flammable objects such as cigarette butts, the receptacle may be made from fire resistant material.
In accordance with the claims, the description also includes:
A receptacle in which the opening edges of the first and the second front panels are curved convexly.
A receptacle, in which a gap opening is exhibited when pressure is applied to the two opening apices, and/ or when the first and the second front panels are pulled apart from one another by the means of a handle attached to at least one of the front panels.
A receptacle attached to cigarette pack for encapsulation of cigarette butt.
A receptacle attached to pack of chewing gum, for the encapsulation of used chewing gum.
A receptacle attached to snuff box, for encapsulation of used snuff/snus.
A receptacle attached to beverage bottle or can, for encapsulation of small waste article.
A receptacle attached to "Multipack" of several beverage bottles or cans, for encapsulation of small waste article.
A receptacle in which the front panels have opening edges that are curved such that when bringing the receptacle from an open state and into its closed position, through releasing the pressure applied to the opening apices, one of the front panels automatically recedes into position underneath the other front panel, such that the entire opening edge of the front panel that overlaps the other, is visible in the receptacle's closed state.
Throughout the opening sequence of the receptacle, through pressure applied to the opening apices, the receptacle's opening edges curve/protrude gradually in such a manner that points, on the opening edge, which are situated further from the highest elevated point on the opening edge, are elevated to a lesser extent than points closer to the highest elevated point on the opening edge. The opening edge of the one front panel which is overlapped by the other front panel, is formed in such a manner that any point on it, throughout the entire opening sequence, is allowed such gradual elevation from the back panel, when pressure onto the opening apices is increased, that any first point on the opening edge of the underlying front panel is elevated to the same or lesser extent/ distance from the back panel than any closely situated second point ,on the overlying front panel, that at any given time under increasing pressure to the opening apices is moving closer towards the said first point, until such degree of opening is reached that the said first point, at further increase in pressure towards the opening apices, moves further away from all points on the overlying front panel. The receptacle may very well be made from a flat blank, cut out and formed with fold lines, with such orientation of the panels that part of the primary edge, of both the first and the second front panel, is attached to the periphery of the back panel through fold line, in which the adjoining fold line of the first front panel is situated on such different part of the back panel's periphery than the fold line of the second front panel, that the two fold lines do not abut or meet one another, and further, where those portions of the first front panel's primary edge that are not attached to the back panel through fold line, are attached to the back panel in another manner, alongside another portion of the back panel's periphery that meets with both an end of the first front panel's fold line and that portion of the first front panel's primary edge that does not constitute a fold line with the back panel, such as by means of for example an adjoining additional flap with adhesive substance applied to it. Further, where that portion of the second front panel's primary edge that is not attached to the back panel through fold line, is attached to the back panel in another manner, alongside that portion of the back panel's periphery that is not attached to the first front panel's primary edge.
The receptacle, in such tensioned state that the two front panels are not any longer parallel to one another, may nevertheless fully enclose a volume that is completely surrounded by the panels of the receptacle.
The front panels of the receptacle are formed such that the entire opening edge of the underlying front panel, throughout the opening sequence, lies below the overlying opening edge, until a gap opening is exhibited.
Several units of the invention may very well be manufactured from one single unitary blank, or from a strip of material, on which several units are oriented in a row systematically next to one another. The units may very well be defined from one another, and from the remaining of the blank, through perforated lines, so that the consumer can rip off and separate each of the units from the rest, when the need to use one of the units occurs.
Such "strip manufacturing" may enable high speed mass production of the invention at a low cost, as well as eliminate the need of sorting and joining of single units, post manufacturing. Strip manufacturing enables production of several units that are joined together into a unitary strip, such that several folded adjoining units can be rolled up as a roll and easily be applied and integrated in other high-speed production lines through the means of for example labelling machines. This may give significant benefits when several units shall be applied on one and the same object/ product, for example chewing gum packs, during the production or filling of such.
When the invention is formed as a strip of several adjoining units, each unit may be placed such in relation to one another that the front panel fold lines of one unit is parallel with the front panel fold lines of the neighbouring unit. Such a series of units constitute a coherent unitary strip of several receptacles, in where each receptacle is oriented such in relation to one another that each receptacle, with the exception of the endmost receptacles in a series, meets and adjoins to another receptacle, through perforated lines and/or additional extension flap, along those portions of the back panels' periphery that do not constitute fold lines with a front panel.
The receptacles are preferably aligned such that an imaginary straight line may be drawn across and through corresponding points on different units, for example through the opening apex of one unit and at the same time through the corresponding opening apex on several different units. The receptacles may be situated somewhat from one another, but they may also very well be placed tightly next to one another so that each of the units' front panel fold lines, on corresponding sides of each receptacle, appear to be natural extensions of one another, broken or unbroken/continuous as such.
The receptacles may, when situated tightly next to one another in a strip, be defined from one another through for example fold lines, perforated lines or other types of weakened line/section, for the purpose of easy separation of one receptacle from another. Such weakened line preferably extends across what would normally (on individual units) be considered part of the back panel periphery of both two receptacles separated by said weakened line. When the invention is configured as a series of several adjoining unit blanks (the flat blank of one single receptacle) that together constitute one unitary blank/strip, the total combined periphery of said unitary blank/strip may consist merely of the front panel peripheries of all adjoining unit blanks and any back panel periphery, or portion thereof, that does not constitute either a fold line or a weakened/perforated line. The front panel fold lines, that have previously and occasionally been referred to as part of the front panel periphery, are in this setting not considered part of the front panel peripheries. The periphery, excluding fold line(s), of additional flaps attached to the front panels for connection between front and back panel when folding a unit blank into a receptacle, if any, are in this setting considered part of the front panel peripheries.
Several receptacles and/or unit blanks, that together form a unitary strip, may be situated with some distance in between them, each unit with the same orientation in relation to one another as described in previous paragraphs, such that a portion of material/ extension flap extends between two neighbouring units, from the weakened/perforated line alongside one unit's back panel and to the back panel/perforated line alongside the back panel of the closest neighbouring unit, and connects the two units together. Thus, each of the units are defined from one another by extension flaps. Each extension flap is defined from the adjoining two units by two weakened/ perforated lines.
The invention may be executed with variation from what is described above, as certain changes in the nature of mentioned fold lines, cuts, and the orientation/configuration of such, may nevertheless result in a unitary product consisting of several adjoining folded receptacles, as described, that can easily be rolled up into a roll for easy application through labelling machine.
One unitary blank of any shape and size, consisting of several unit blanks, may also be formed such that each unit on the unitary blank is defined merely from the shape/outline of the unit's front panels (including any attached additional flaps), each front panel defined from the rest of the unitary blank through cuts/edges along its opening edge and along that portion of its primary edge that is not, according to previous description of the invention, adjoining the said unit's back panel through fold line. Together, the back panels of all units on the unitary blank make up the remaining portion of the entire unitary blank.
Any additional flap, for the purpose of connecting a front panel to an adjoining back panel, attached to the one front panel that in the receptacle's folded state is the overlying front panel of the two, may preferably be shaped such that it, in the receptacle's folded and flat state, does not overlap nor is overlapped by the underlying front panel. Such configuration of said flap may provide certain benefits in high speed folding and joining/gluing of the invention, especially so when manufacturing a series of adjoining receptacles.
Individual, folded receptacles that are not attached to one another may also be sorted and arranged in any desired formation, and in a separate process be applied onto a strip, a roll or similar, such that several units (e.g. a series of three units) are attached to the same non-adhesive or self adhesive label, so that several labels with attached units can easily be rolled up into or onto a roll for easy application in an external production line through labelling machine.
The receptacle is formed such that the opening edges of the front panels curve gradually, throughout the opening sequence of the receptacle, in such a manner that points on any one opening edge, which are situated further from the highest elevated point on the same opening edge, are elevated to a lesser extent, from the back panel, than points closer to the highest elevated point on the said same opening edge.
Adhesive substance or adhesive element may be applied onto one or several receptacles for easy attachment of the receptacle onto other objects/products.
Detailed description of the drawings
Figure 1 - 6 show the basic functionality and use of the invention. Figure 1 shows an outline of the receptacle with the gap opening partially opened, as converging pressure against the two opening apices is applied such that the opening apices have been brought somewhat towards one another. Figure 2 shows an outline of the receptacle in its open state, as the two opening apices is pushed even further towards one another, so that an object, such as used chewing gum, may be put through the opening and placed inside of the receptacle. Figure 3 shows an outline of the receptacle holding an object within, as the opening gap is partially closed due to a slight reduction in/release of the applied pressure onto the opening apices. Figure 4 shows the receptacle in its closed state, as the applied pressure onto the opening apices is fully released. Figure 5 shows an outline of the receptacle before use, and figure 6 shows an outline of the receptacle with an object, i.e. a piece of used chewing gum, enclosed within.
Figure 7 - 12 shows how a square variant of the receptacle (square or close to square back panel) may be produced from folding of a flat pre-cut blank of material.
Figure 13 - 18 shows how a circular variant of the receptacle (circular or close to circular back panel) may be produced from folding of a flat pre-cut blank of material. Figure 19 - 22 shows how a circular variant of the receptacle may be used/ handled.
Figure 23 - 30 shows receptacle(s) attached onto different objects/ products; chewing gum packets, snuffbox, beverage bottle, beverage can and a "six-pack" of beverage bottles.
Even though some drawings relate mainly to encapsulation of chewing gum and snuff, it must be clear that the term object, the term waste and/ or the term waste article, in this setting do include any kind of object or substance that can be enclosed within a receptacle, both rigid- and fluid, as well as objects or material in gas-form.
Although some drawings relate mainly to the attachment of receptacle(s) onto chewing gum packet, snuff box, beverage bottle and/ or "six-pack" packaging, it must be clear that the term product, in this setting, does include any type of marketable product and/ or installation, herein such as a theatre seat.
The shape of the receptacle may deviate somewhat from what is shown in the illustrations; square and/ or circular. The receptacle may have the overall shape or appearance of other organic or geometrical shapes consisting of more or less than four sides/ edges, or an oval shape, or other asymmetric variants of these.
Figure 7 outlines an example of a suitable blank for production of square variant of the invention, of which the opening edges are curved convexly. The figure shows the one side of the blank that is normally considered the inside of the receptacle. The panels, 1, 2 and 3 are defined from one another by the straight fold lines, 4 and 5. Panel 2, which constitutes the back panel of the receptacle, is square and defined by the straight sides/edges 8 and 9 and fold lines 4 and 5. Panel 1, which constitutes the first front panel, is defined by fold line 4, straight side/edge 6 and curved side/edge 7, and panel 3, which constitutes the second front panel, is defined by straight side/edge 10, fold line 5 and curved side/edge 1 1 ; further where side/edge 1 1 and said curved side/ edge 7 curve in opposite directions. Sides/edges 6 and 10 are equally long and the curved side/edge 7 has an equal or larger radius (equal or lower curvature) than curved side/edge 1 1, such that panel 3 has an equally large or larger surface than panel 1. Edge 6 meets edge 8 to form a 180 degree angle in between them, thus the edges 6 and 8 are direct and parallel extensions of one another. Edge 10 meets edge 9 to form a 180 degree angle in between them, thus the edges 10 and 9 are direct and parallel extensions of one another.
Figure 31 outlines an example of a suitable blank for production of square variant of the invention with convexly curved opening edges, of which curved edge 7 has a lower curvature and higher radius than curved edge 1 1. The circles on the figure illustrates this by showing curved edge 7 as a segment of a larger circle, and curved edge 1 1 as a segment of a smaller circle.
As variant of the example in figure 7, shown by figure 32, the curved edge 7 may have an endmost straight portion (i.e. non-curved) 7a that is a direct and parallel extension of the straight edge 9, and the curved edge 1 1 may have an endmost straight portion 1 Ia, that is a direct and parallel extension of the straight edge 8. This may provide the receptacle with a tighter seal between the back panel and the two front panels in those areas where a tight seal is desired.
As variant of the examples provided in figures 7 and 32, shown by figures 33 and 34, the angle between the straight edge 6 of the first front panel and the straight edge 8 of the back panel, and/or the angle between the straight edge 10 of the second front panel and straight edge 9 of the back panel, may deviate from the previously said 180 degrees by 1 - 10 degrees. The example shown in figure 33 and 34 illustrates a deviation of 5 degrees, i.e the angle between said edges are here shown as either 175 degrees or 185 degrees. Consequently, front panels of such shape will, due to the tension that is created between the front and back panel, in the receptacle's flat and folded state, bulge slightly out from the back panel. This tension may ease the opening-/closing functionality of the receptacle, as less pressure against the opening apices is required for the receptacle to exhibit a gap opening.
Figure 8-9 show how the blank, as shown in figures 7 and 31-34, may be folded to create the receptacle. As shown in figure 8-9, first front panel 1 is folded along fold line 4, over and onto back panel 2, such that the one corner of the first front panel that is defined by edge 6 and 7 meets the one corner of the back panel that is defined by edge 8 and fold line 5, to form an end (positioned in the same area as the one opening apex) 12. Further, the second front panel 3 is folded along fold line 5, over and onto first front panel 1 and back panel 2, such that the one corner of the second front panel that is defined by edges 10 and 1 1 meets the one corner of the back panel that is defined by edge 9 and fold line 4, to form an end (i.e. the second opening apex) 13.
Figure 10 shows perspective outline of the receptacle in its folded and closed state. Edge 8 coincides with edge 6, and they are fixed to one another in any approved manner, such as by means of adhesive substance or similar, to form a tight seal/bond in the connection between the front panel and back panel. The connection between the two coinciding edges 9 and 10 is sealed in a similar manner. As an alternative to the example shown in figure 10, the figures 1 1-12 show a variant of the receptacle, with additional flaps 14 and 15 for the purpose of a tighter, more secure fixture or seal between the panels. Figure 1 1 outlines the shape of a blank suitable for the production of the receptacle with additional flaps 14 and 15 attached to the front panels. Figure 12 shows the receptacle with additional flaps 14 and 15 as seen on the receptacle in its folded and empty state. Improved seal between the edges 8 and 6, and between the edges 9 and 10, may be achieved through incorporating the said additional flaps 14 and 15 into the design of the receptacle, such that flap 14 extends from front panel 1 and flap 15 extends from front panel 3, such that edge 6 rather forms a fold line between the front panel 1 and the adjoining flap 14, and the edge 10 forms a fold line between the front panel 3 and the adjoining flap 15. The flaps may then be folded about and along their adjoining fold lines and onto the back panel 2, where they may be fixed onto the surface of the back panel by means of such as glue or similar. Figure 1 shows an example of how the receptacle exhibits a gap opening when converging pressure is applied onto the opening apices 12 and 13, such as by two fingers on the same hand, so that the opening apices is brought closer towards one another.
Figure 2 shows the same as in figure 1, but the degree of pressure applied to the opening apices is here higher, hence the gap opening between edges 7 and 1 1 is larger so that an object, such as a piece of used chewing gum 77 may easily be put through the gap opening and placed on the back panel 2. Figure 2 shows the receptacle in an open position.
Figure 3 shows the receptacle with a piece of used chewing gum 77 inside it, and the pressure against the opening apices 12 and 13 is reduced from what was seen in figure 2, when an object could easily be put through the gap opening. Figure 3 shows a degree of pressure against the opening apices, similar to what is seen in figure 1, thus the gap opening is here "partly closed".
Figure 4 shows a receptacle with used chewing gum in it, and the pressure against the opening apices 12 and 13 is fully released. Front panel 3 has resumed into position, overlapping front panel 1 , such that the gap opening between edges 7 and 1 1, as shown in figures 1-3, is fully closed. The receptacle is now in its closed state, enclosing an object.
Figure 5 shows side view of the receptacle in its closed position, without object enclosed in it.
Figure 6 shows side view of the receptacle in its closed state, enclosing a piece of used chewing gum. Due to the panels' elastic qualities, degree of rigidity and the way in which the receptacle is folded, the front panels of the receptacle with content enclosed are pushed towards one another, reducing the overall volume and dimensions of the receptacle to a minimum. Front panel 3 is overlying front panel 1 , as edge 7 has equal or lower curvature than edge 1 1 , and the front panel 3 has an equally large or larger surface than front panel 1 , so that no gap opening is exhibited between edge 7 and edge 1 1. When pressure is applied onto the gap opening (onto the surface of both front panels) of the receptacle containing a piece of used gum, such as by pressure from a shoe stepping on it, the front panels 1 and 3 are respectively pushed under and over one another, such that the gap opening is closed tighter. Due to this, and because of the elastic nature of the receptacle, the object contained within the receptacle is, in the receptacle's closed state, prevented from any contact with surrounding objects. When the receptacle is used for encapsulation of used chewing gum, the sticky nature of the gum itself will contribute to keeping the receptacle in a closed position.
Figure 13 shows perspective of a suitable blank for the production of a circular variant of the receptacle. The figure shows what is normally considered the inside of the folded receptacle. The panels 16, 17 and 18 are adjoining and attached to one another along fold lines 19 and 20. Back panel 17 has a mainly circular periphery which in its entirety may be considered a single unitary edge 23. The first front panel 16 is defined mainly by two curved edges, of which edge 21 resembles half the contour of a circle of same/similar overall shape and dimensions as back panel 17, and the second edge 22 is curved opposite of edge 21 and has a lower curvature/ larger radius than edge 21. Edge 21 constitutes the primary edge of front panel 16, while edge 22 constitutes the panel's secondary edge/ Figur 1 1-12 viser variant med tilleggsflater 14 og 15 for forbedret forsegling som alternativ til løsningen vist i figur 10. Figur 1 1 viser formen av materialet som emballasjen, med kvadratisk bunnplateareal med tilleggsflater 14 og 15, kan fremstilles av. Figur 12 viser emballasjeanordningen med tilleggsflater 14 og 15 ferdig brettet. Forbedret forsegling mellom sidene 8, 6 og eventuell rette del 7a av side 7 og forbedret forsegling mellom sidene 9, 10 og eventuell rett del 11a av side 1 1 kan oppnas ved tilleggsflater 14 og 15 tilknyttet flate 1 og flate 3 slik at sidene 6 og 10 blir brettekanter og flatene 14 og 15 brettes rundt flate 2 i brettekantene 6 og 10 og festes ved for eksempel Hm eller perforering pa baksiden av bunnplaten 2.
Pa figur 1 er det vist eksempel pa hvordan spalteapningen fremvises ved at spalteendenes posisjoner 12 og 13 trykkes mot hverandre med pekefinger og tommelfinger pa samme hand.
Pa figur 2 er det vist tilsvarende som figur 1, med den forskjell at pa figur 2 er pekefinger og tommelfinger trykket naermere hverandre og dermed blir spalteapningen mellom sidene 7 og 1 1 større slik at objekt, sa som brukt tyggegummi 77, kan spyttes eller pa annen mate føres inn i apningen slik at det legger seg pa flate 2. Figur 2 viser emballasjen i apen stilling
Figur 3 viser emballasjen med brukt tyggegummi 77 inni, og presset mellom pekefinger og tommelfinger mot endene 12 og 13 er løsnet noe fra da tyggegummien kunne føres inn i apningen slik som vist pa figur 2. Pa figur 3 er presset mellom pekefinger og tommelfinger tilsvarende som pa figur 1 , slik at innføringsapningen er halvveis lukket.
Pa figur 4 er emballasjen vist med brukt tyggegummi inni, og presset mot endene 12 og 13 er helt løsnet. Flate 3 har lagt seg over flate 1 slik at spalteapningen mellom sidene 7 og 1 1, slik som vist pa figur 1-3, na er helt lukket. Emballasjen er i lukket stilling med objekt inni.
Figur 5 viser sideriss av emballasjen i lukket stilling uten objekt inni.
Figur 6 viser sideriss av emballasjen i lukket stilling med brukt tyggegummi inni. Pa grunn av materialets elastisitet og stivhet og maten det er brettet pa, presses flatene mot hverandre slik at emballasjen med objektet inni tar minimal plass. Flate 3 ligger over flate 1, ettersom side 7 har IUc eller svakere krumning, større eller lik radius, enn side 1 1 og flate 3 dermed har Hk eller større overflate enn flate 1, slik at det ikke er noen spalteapning mellom side 7 og 1 1. Dersom emballasjen med objektet inni paføres press mot innføringsapningen, sa som at den trakkes pa, vil flatene 1 og 3 presses over og under hverandre slik at innføringsapningen
SUBSTITUTE SHEET additional flaps 28 may be attached to the front panels so that they can be folded onto the back panel 17 and be fixed onto the backside of this, such that both edges 21 and 24 constitute several fold lines rather than an edge. Figure 18 shows the receptacle with additional flaps 28 attached, while in a folded state.
Figure 19 shows how the circular variant of the receptacle may be used; the receptacle exhibits a gap opening when pressure is applied to the opening apices 26 and 27, and further how the gap opening closes when the applied pressure is released. The functionality, as here described, is similar to that of the square receptacle, shown by figures 1-6.
Figure 20 shows side view of circular variant of the receptacle, on which the opening apices 26 and 27 are brought towards one another, such that the gap opening between edge 22 of front panel 16 and edge 25 of front panel 18 is exhibited, enabling an object to be put through the gap opening. Figure 20 shows the receptacle in its open position.
Figures 21-22 show side view of circular variant of the receptacle in its closed state, with an object enclosed within. Front panel 18 has resumed into position overlapping front panel 16, such that the gap opening between the edges 22 and 25 is completely closed. Due to the elasticity and rigidity of the panels, and the way in which the receptacle is folded, the panels are pressing towards one another, keeping the overall volume and dimensions of the filled receptacle at a minimum. Panel 18 is overlying panel 16, as the edge 22 has a lower curvature than the edge 25 and panel 18 has a larger surface than panel 16, such that the gap opening is completely closed. If pressure is applied onto the gap opening (onto the surface of both front panels) of the receptacle containing a piece of used gum, such as by pressure from a finger 30 or a shoe stepping on it, the front panels 16 and 18 are respectively pushed under and over one another, such that the gap opening is closed tighter and the overall volume of the receptacle is reduced further. When the receptacle is used for encapsulation of used chewing gum, the sticky nature of the gum itself will also contribute to keeping the receptacle in a tightly closed position. Figure 21 shows side view of the receptacle in a closed position, with a piece of used chewing gum enclosed within. The figure shows the receptacle immediately after encapsulation of the gum, and before any further external pressure has been applied i.e. flattened it. Figure 22 shows side view of the receptacle in a closed position, with a piece of used chewing gum enclosed within. The figure shows the filled receptacle after pressure has been applied to the opening area, by a finger, to further flatten the receptacle.
As variant of the example in figures 13-22 and 35-36, as shown in figures 37-39, an additional flap 76 may be attached to/ extend from front panel 16 along the front panel's opening edge 22, to form a handle such that the front panel 16, in the receptacle's folded state, can be pulled up form the back panel 17. By pulling the handle and the adjoining front panel 16 up from the back panel, the receptacle exhibits a gap opening between the first and the second front panels.
Figure 23 shows the invention while attached onto a chewing gum pack. The chewing gum pack constitutes a container 32 in thin material such as paper, filled with several pieces of chewing gum 33. Typical for such chewing gum packaging is that parts of the packaging is gradually ripped off and removed as the chewing gum tablets are consumed. Therefore, one or more units of the invention 34 are preferably placed onto the lower end portion of the pack. In order to maximize the number of units attached onto a small surface, several units of the invention may be placed such that one unit partly overlaps 35 or is partly overlapped by the neighbouring unit. The units may bear parts of the chewing gum pack's graphics, so that the chewing gum pack has the same overall graphic appearance both with and without the invention attached.
Figure 24 shows the invention attached onto a type of chewing gum pack 36 that is often referred to as a "flip-top box" 37. Such type is typically used as packaging for pastilles and mints. The packet contains several loose tablets of chewing gum 38, and has a top that can be flipped up to bring the packet into an open position. At least one unit of the invention 39 may be attached onto the front panel of the packet for easy access to the unit. To maximize the number of units attached onto a surface, several units may be placed such that one unit partly overlaps or is partly overlapped 40 by a neighbouring unit. As attached units do not build up significantly from the panel, due to the flat and thin nature of the invention, the overall dimension of the pack is kept mainly the same even when the invention is attached. The units may bear parts of the chewing gum pack's graphics, so that the chewing gum pack has the same overall graphic appearance both with and without the invention attached.
Figure 25 shows the invention attached onto two different variants of chewing gum packaging. These are flip-top boxes 42 of a different type than the one shown in figure 24. These variants contain pieces of chewing gum 43 stacked systematically next to one another, where each piece is typically wrapped separately in a piece of thin material. At least one unit of the invention is attached onto the pack, preferably on the inside of the pack or on the inside of the flip-top of the pack, or several units may be placed in a row next to one another 45 as shown in the figure. To maximize the number of units attached onto a surface, several units may be placed such that one unit partly overlaps or is partly overlapped by a neighbouring unit. The units may bear parts of the chewing gum pack's graphics, so that the chewing gum pack has the same overall graphic appearance both with and without the invention attached.
Figure 26 shows the invention attached onto a type of chewing gum pack, often referred to as a "blister pack" 46 and typically used for packing pills on a board. The board 49 forms several small capsules 48, each containing one piece of chewing gum 47. When the pack is in its closed state, the board is surrounded by an outer casing 50 in carton, through where the board is allowed to slide back and forth. At least one unit of the invention 51 is attached onto the pack, either onto the board itself or onto the inside or outside of the outer casing. To maximize the number of units attached onto a surface, several units 52 may be placed such that one unit partly overlaps or is partly overlapped by a neighbouring unit. The units may bear parts of the chewing gum pack's graphics, so that the chewing gum pack has the same overall graphic appearance both with and without the invention attached. Figure 27 shows the invention attached onto a snuff box 55 containing loose snuff 58 or several small pouches 59 of snuff. The box consists of a circular container 56 and a lid 57. At least one unit of the invention 60 is attached onto the snuffbox, preferably onto the Hd of the box or onto the bottom of the box, on the inside or outside of the box. Several units of the invention may be put upon one another 61 and be fixed onto one another and/or to the box. As the box is circular, a circular variant of the invention is preferred.
Figure 28 shows the invention attached to a beverage bottle 62, constituting a bottle 63 and a cork 64. At least one unit 65 of the invention is attached onto the bottle, preferably onto its bottom, on the outside of the bottle, or onto the cork. Several units of the invention may be put upon 66 one another and attached to one another and/or to the bottle. As both the bottom of the bottle and the cork are circular, a circular variant of the invention is here preferred.
Figure 29 shows the invention attached onto a beverage can 67, typically made from metal such as aluminium. At least one unit 68 of the invention is attached onto the can, preferably onto its top or bottom, on the outside of the can. Several units of the invention may be put upon 69 one another and attached to one another and/or to the can. As both the top and the bottom of the can are circular, a circular variant of the invention is here preferred.
Figure 30 shows the invention attached onto a multipack of beverage bottles or cans, here exemplified by what is commonly referred to as a "six-pack" 70; a carton structure/casing 72 designed to hold six bottles 71 or cans. At least one unit 73 of the invention is attached onto the casing, preferably on the outside of the casing. Several units may be placed in a row next to one another 74. To maximize the number of units attached onto a surface, several units may be placed such that one unit partly overlaps 75 or is partly overlapped by a neighbouring unit. The units may bear parts of the casing's graphics, so that the chewing gum pack has the same overall graphic appearance both with and without the invention attached.
Figure 41 shows how the back panel 2 and the front panel's opening edge 7 or 1 1 curve during the opening sequence of the invention/receptacle. The figure shows the one point 80 on the opening edge, which is highest elevated from the back panel. Further, the figure shows another two points on the opening edge, of which the first point 82 is farther from the highest elevated point 80 than the second point 81. The figure shows that the distance 84, between the back panel and that point which is placed farther from the highest elevated point 80, is shorter than the distance 83 between the back panel and a point which is closer to the highest elevated point.
Figure 42 shows cross section of the receptacle during the opening sequence, on which the cross section stretches from and between those two corners of the receptacle that do not constitute the receptacle's opening apices. The arrow 87 in the figure illustrates the general direction of movement of the underlying front panel 1 during the opening sequence. The figure illustrates how any point 85 on the opening edge of the underlying front panel is elevated from the back panel 2, during opening of the receptacle, to the same or a lesser extent than any nearby point 86, on the overlying front panel 3, that at any time throughout the opening sequence is approaching the first said point 85. The two arrows 88 illustrate how the two said arbitrary points 85 and 86 approach one another during opening of the receptacle.
Figure 43 outlines a plan view of a suitable flat unitary blank 96 for production of several adjoining unit blanks/receptacles 89, 90 and 91. The blank constitutes three unit blanks that are oriented tightly next to one another such that they are adjoining and attached to one another through perforated lines 92 that stretch between two neighbouring unit blanks along what is normally considered part of the back panel's periphery /edge on both those unit blanks the perforated line borders. Further, the figure shows fold lines 4 and 5, which in the receptacle's folded state constitute part of the back panel's periphery /edge.
Figure 44 shows several adjoining receptacles, each in a folded state. Perforated lines between neighbouring receptacles are marked 92.
Figure 45 shows an example of a suitable unitary blank 97 for the production of several connected receptacles 93, 94 and 95. The figure shows how the unit blanks are oriented according to one another, with some distance between each unit blank, such that the unit blanks are connected to one another through perforated lines 92 and extension flaps 98 that extend from and between the back panels of neighbouring unit blanks.
Figure 46 shows several connected receptacles in a folded state, of where neighbouring receptacles are connected to one another through perforated lines 92 and extension flaps 98.
Figure 47 shows an example of how several receptacles may be positioned on a sheet of material, in order to make the most out of the material.
Figure 48 shows an example of a unitary blank suitable for the production of several connected receptacles.
Figure 49 shows plan view of the receptacle seen in its folded flat state. Additional flap 99, for the purpose of connecting front panel 3 to the back panel, is shown as a hidden detail (dotted line) on the inside of the receptacle, situated in between the front panel and the back panel. The overlying front panel's adjoining additional flap 99 is shaped such that it, in the receptacle's folded and flat state, does not overlap nor is overlapped by the underlying front panel 1 or the opening edge 7 of this.
Figure 50 shows example of how single separate receptacles, or multiple adjoining receptacles, may be attached onto adhesive label 100 or sticker on a roll/roll-strip 101.
Figure 51 shows example of how multiple receptacles 102 may be attached onto a label and rolled up into a roll 101 for easy application in the production line of another product.
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