DIVIDER CONSTRUCT FOR TRAYS, RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of each of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/400,901, filed on August 25, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/400,905, filed on August 25, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/400,908, filed on August 25, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/400,913, filed on August 25, 2022.

INCORPORTATION BY REFERENCE

[0002] The entire disclosures of each of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/400,901, filed on August 25, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/400,905, filed on August 25, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/400,908, filed on August 25, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/400,913, filed on August 25, 2022, are incorporated by reference for all purposes as if set forth in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to containers for holding at least one article. In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to constructs for providing divider features in the interior of a tray for holding at least one article.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] According to one aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a construct for providing divider features in the interior of a tray, the construct comprising a plurality of panels comprising at least one bottom panel and at least one divider panel extending upwardly from the at least one bottom panel, and divider features comprising at least one divider wall, the at least one divider wall comprising the at least one divider panel.

[0005] According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a blank for forming a construct for providing divider features in the interior of a tray, the blank comprising: a plurality of panels comprising at least one botom panel and at least one divider panel, and divider features for forming divider features of the construct formed from the blank, the divider features comprising the at least one divider panel for being positioned extending upwardly from the at least one botom panel when the construct is formed from the blank to form at least one divider wall. [0006] According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a method of forming a construct for providing divider features in the interior of a tray, the method comprising obtaining a blank, the blank comprising a plurality of panels comprising at least one bottom panel, at least one divider panel, and divider features, and positioning the at least one divider panel extending upwardly from the at least one bottom panel to form at least one divider wall.

[0007] According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a system, the system comprising a tray comprising a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the tray, and a construct providing divider features in the interior of the tray, the construct comprising a plurality of panels comprising at least one bottom panel and at least one divider panel extending upwardly from the at least one bottom panel, and divider features comprising at least one divider wall, the at least one divider wall comprising the at least one divider panel.

[0008] Those skilled in the art will appreciate the above stated advantages and other advantages and benefits of various additional embodiments reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the below-listed drawing figures. It is within the scope of the present disclosure that the above-discussed aspects be provided both individually and in various combinations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the disclosure.

[0010] Fig. 1 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a construct according to a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0011] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a tray for at least partially receiving a construct according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a partial formation of a construct from the blank of Fig. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0013] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a construct formed from the blank of Fig. 1 according to the first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. [0014] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a system including the construct of Fig. 4 at least partially received in the tray of Fig. 2 according to the first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0015] Fig. 6 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a construct according to a second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0016] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a partial formation of a construct from the blank of Fig. 6 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0017] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a construct formed from the blank of Fig. 6 according to the second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0018] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a system including the construct of Fig. 8 at least partially received in the tray of Fig. 2 according to the second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0019] Fig. 10 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a construct according to a third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0020] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a partial formation of a construct from the blank of Fig. 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0021] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a construct formed from the blank of Fig. 10 according to the third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0022] Fig. 13 is a perspective view ofa system including the construct of Fig. 12 at least partially received in the tray of Fig. 2 according to the third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0023] Fig. 14 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a construct according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0024] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a tray for at least partially receiving a construct according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a partial formation of a construct from the blank of Fig. 14 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0026] Fig. 17 is a perspective view of a construct formed from the blank of Fig. 14 according to the fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. [0027] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a system including the construct of Fig. 17 at least partially received in the tray of Fig. 15 according to the fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0028] Fig. 19 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a construct according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0029] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of a construct formed from the blank of Fig. 19 according to the fifth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0030] Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a system including the construct of Fig. 20 at least partially received in the tray of Fig. 15 according to the fifth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0031 ] Fig. 22 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a construct according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0032] Fig. 23 is a perspective view of a partial formation of a construct from the blank of Fig. 22 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0033] Fig. 24 is a perspective view of a construct formed from the blank of Fig. 22 according to the sixth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0034] Fig. 25 is a perspective view of a system including the construct of Fig. 24 at least partially received in the tray of Fig. 15 according to the sixth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0035] Fig. 26 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a construct according to a seventh exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0036] Fig. 27 is a perspective view of a partial formation of a construct from the blank of Fig. 26 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0037] Fig. 28 is a perspective view of a construct formed from the blank of Fig. 26 according to the seventh exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0038] Fig. 29 is a perspective view of a system including the construct of Fig. 28 at least partially received in the tray of Fig. 15 according to the seventh exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0039] Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numbers throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0040] Containers and constructs according to the present disclosure can accommodate articles of numerous different shapes. In this specification, the terms “lower,” “bottom,” “upper,” “top,” “front,” and “back” indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected containers. As described herein, containers may be formed by multiple overlapping panels, portions, and/or end flaps. Such panels, portions, and/or end flaps may be designated in relative terms to one another, e.g., “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., in sequential or non-sequential reference, without departing from the disclosure.

[0041] According to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, Fig. 1 illustrates an exterior surface 101 of a blank 103 for forming a construct 105 (Fig. 3) according to a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The construct 105 can be configured to form a divider insert, to provide divider features in the interior of another container such as tray or other container. In this regard, the construct 105 can be provided together with a tray or other container to form a system 110 (Fig. 5).

[0042] With momentary reference to Fig. 2, a tray T for use with the constructs herein according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. The tray T can include a bottom B and side walls SI, S2, S3, S4 extending upwardly from the bottom B so as to define an interior N of the tray T. It will be understood that one or more of the bottom B and side walls S 1 , S2, S3, S4 of the tray T can be formed from one or more panels and/or end flaps. In some embodiments, the side walls SI, S2, S3, S4 can be formed from respective side panels that are foldably connected to a bottom panel forming the bottom B of the tray T at respective fold lines, with adjacent side panels attached to one another via one or more respective end flaps.

[0043] Trays that can be used to form the system 110, e.g., the tray T or another container, can be used for holding one or more articles such as food products, e.g., portioned retail food products that can include one or more of cookies, crackers, cakes, pastries, candies, nuts, popcorn, trail mix, gum, etc. In some embodiments, the articles can include frozen or non-frozen food products that can be provided in discrete portions, for example, chicken nuggets, French fries, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, chips, popcorn, other finger foods, etc. In embodiments, other types of articles that can include food products and/or non-food products can be placed in a tray for service to a customer, for example, at a quick service restaurant or vendor. In some embodiments, such products can be contained in additional packaging and then placed in a tray. Such trays could be otherwise shaped and arranged and could be used to hold other products and/or articles in similar or different environments without departing from the disclosure. [0044] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to provide articles in a tray in at least partial separation from one another, e.g., to avoid commingling of different food products, for ease of service of use, to more prominently display such different articles to a customer, etc. In this regard, it can be desirable to provide divider features in the tray to provide at least partial separation between such articles, as described further herein.

[0045] With continued reference to Fig. 1, the blank 103 has a lateral axis LI and a longitudinal axis L2. The blank 103 can have a plurality of panels that include a bottom panel 121 and a first hinge panel 123 foldably connected to the bottom panel 121 at an oblique fold line 125. The oblique fold line 125 can be interrupted by a curved cut 127 along which the hinge panel 123 is separably connected to the bottom panel 121.

[0046] Similarly, a second hinge panel 129 can be foldably connected to the bottom panel 121 at an oblique fold line 131 that is interrupted by a curved cut 133 along which the hinge panel 129 is at least partially separable from the bottom panel 121.

[0047] The plurality of panels of the blank 103 and construct 105 formed therefrom can also include a first divider end flap or first divider panel 135 foldably connected to the hinge panel 123 at a lateral fold line or lateral line of weakening 137. The divider panel 135 can include a first portion 139 foldably connected to the hinge panel 123 at the lateral line of weakening 137 and a second portion 141 foldably connected to the first portion 139 at an oblique fold line or oblique line of weakening 143.

[0048] A second divider end flap or second divider panel 145 can be foldably connected to the hinge panel 123 at a longitudinal fold line or longitudinal line of weakening 147.

[0049] The plurality of panels can further include a third divider end flap or third divider panel 149 foldably connected to the hinge panel 129 at a lateral fold line or lateral line of weakening 151. The divider panel 149 can include a first portion 153 foldably connected to the hinge panel 129 at the line of weakening 151, and a second portion 155 foldably connected to the first portion 153 at an oblique fold line or oblique line of weakening 157.

[0050] A fourth divider end flap or a fourth divider panel 159 can be foldably connected to the hinge panel 129 at a longitudinal fold line or longitudinal line of weakening 161. [0051 ] The blank 103 and construct 105 formed therefrom can also include a plurality of end flaps foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels. The plurality of end flaps can include a first end flap 163 foldably connected to the second divider panel 145 at a lateral fold line 165 and separable from the second portion 141 of the first divider panel 135 at a generally longitudinal cut 167.

[0052] Similarly, a second end flap 169 can be foldably connected to the fourth divider panel 157 at a longitudinal fold line 171 and separable from the second portion 155 of the third divider panel 149 at a generally longitudinal cut 173.

[0053] It will be understood that the blank 103 and construct 105 formed therefrom can include a different number, arrangement, and/or configuration of panels, end flaps, and/or associated features without departing from the disclosure.

[0054] With additional reference to Figs. 3 and 4, formation of the construct 105 from the blank 103 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. It will be understood that intermediate configurations between the blank 103 illustrated in Fig. 1 and the construct 105 illustrated in Fig. 4 can optionally be considered a further folded configuration of the blank 103 or a partially erected configuration of the construct 105.

[0055] The blank 103 can be positioned with the exterior surface 101 facing downwardly on a supporting surface and with an interior surface of the blank 103 facing upwardly. The end flaps 163 , 169 can be folded at the respective fold lines 165, 171 into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the interior surface of the respective panels 145, 159.

[0056] The panels 135, 149 can be folded at the respective lines of weakening 137, 151 into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the respective hinge panels 123, 129.

[0057] Simultaneously or thereafter, the distal portion 141 of the of the panel 135 can be folded at the fold line such that the distal portion 141 of the panel 135 is positioned in overlapping and/or at least partial face- to-face contact with the base portion 139 of the panel 135 and such that an interior surface of the distal portion 141 of the panel 135 is positioned facing away from the interior surface of the bottom panel 121.

[0058] Similarly, the distal portion 155 of the of the panel 149 can be folded at the fold line 157 such that the distal portion 155 of the panel 149 is positioned in overlapping and/or at least partial face-to-face contact with the base portion 153 of the panel 149 and such that an interior surface of the distal portion 155 of the panel 149 is positioned facing away from the interior surface of the bottom panel 121. [0059] The panels 145, 159 can then be folded at the respective lines of weakening 147, 161 such that the panels 145, 159 are positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective hinge panels 123, 129, with the end flaps 163, 169 carried thereon positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the panels 135, 149, e.g., the respective interior surfaces of the respective distal portions 141, 155 thereof.

[0060] Such an arrangement can be at least partially maintained with an adhesive such as glue. In one embodiment, one or more applications of adhesive can be provided on the exterior surfaces of the respective end flaps 163, 169 such that the end flaps 163, 169 can be adhered to respective portions of the respective panels 135, 149.

[0061] In one embodiment, the aforementioned can be a collapsed configuration of the construct 105 that has a generally flattened profile, for example, for shipping, storage, stacking, etc., in a minimized or spacesaving arrangement.

[0062] Thereafter, the panels 135, 145 can be folded at the respective lines of weakening 137, 147 to extend in generally upright relation to the hinge panel 123, with the panels 135, 145 joined via the end flap 163. Similarly, the panels 149, 159 can be folded upwardly at the respective lines of weakening 151, 161 to extend in generally upright relation to the hinge panel 129, with the panels 149, 159 joined via the end flap 169.

[0063] Simultaneously or thereafter, the hinge panel 123, with the panels 135, 145 extending upwardly therefrom (or overlapped thereon) and attached to one another via the end flap 163, can be at least partially separated from the bottom panel 121 at the cut 127 and folded at the fold line 125 in the direction of the arrow Al such that a portion of the exterior surface of the hinge panel 123 is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the exterior surface of the bottom panel 121.

[0064] Similarly, the hinge panel 129, with the panels 149, 159 extending upwardly therefrom (or overlapped thereon) and attached to each other via the end flap 169, can be at least partially separated from the bottom panel 121 at the cut 133 and folded at the fold line 131 in the direction of the arrow A2 such that a portion of the exterior surface of the hinge panel 129 is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the exterior surface of the bottom panel 121.

[0065] The aforementioned arrangement of the hinge panel 123 and divider panels 135, 145 joined via the end flap 163 can be a first hingeable portion 175 of the blank 103/construct 105, and the arrangement of the hinge panel 129 and divider panels 149, 159 joined via the end flap 169 can be a second hingeable portion 177 of the blank 103/construct 105. As described herein the hingeable portions 175, 177 are moveable relative to the bottom panel 121 to form divider features of the construct 105.

[0066] The aforementioned arrangement of the construct 105, as shown in Fig. 4, can be configured as a divider insert that provides divider features for another container such as the tray T. As described herein, the divider features of the construct 105 can include a plurality of divider walls extending upwardly from the bottom panel 121.

[0067] As shown, the divider features of the construct 105 can include a first divider wall 181 at least partially formed by the divider panel 145, a second divider wall 183 at least partially formed by the divider panel 135 and the end flap 163, a third divider wall 185 at least partially formed by the divider panel 159, and a fourth divider wall 187 at least partially formed by the divider panel 149 and the end flap 169.

[0068] With additional reference to Fig. 5, the construct 105 can be at least partially received in the interior N of the tray T to form a system 110. In the system 110, the divider walls 181, 183, 185, 187 are arranged extending upwardly from the bottom B of the tray T to form a plurality of compartment spaces or compartments 189, 191, 193, 195 that are each a respective portion of the interior N of the tray T, e.g., to provide separated receiving spaces for articles or products in the system 110.

[0069] In this regard, the construct 105 can be provided separately from trays T or other containers to provide an optional divider insert for an existing supply of trays or other containers, e.g., for use in situations in which a compartmented interior for a given tray or container is desired. In some embodiments, the construct(s) 105 can be provided together with trays T or other systems as a kit or package for forming compartmented trays (e.g., the system 110).

[0070] It will be understood that the construct 105, the tray T, and/or one or more respective features thereof can have a different arrangement or configuration without departing from the disclosure.

[0071] Turning to Fig. 6, the exterior surface 201 of a tray 203 for forming a construct 205 (Fig. 8) is illustrated according to a second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The construct 205 can be configured to form a divider insert, to provide divider features in the interior of another container such as tray or other container. In this regard, the construct 105 can be provided together with the tray T or other container to form a system 210 (Fig. 9). [0072] As shown, the blank 203 has the longitudinal axis LI and the lateral axis L2. The blank 203 can have a plurality of panels that include a bottom panel 221 and a first hinge panel 223 foldably connected to the bottom panel 221 at an oblique line of weakening of oblique fold line 225. Similarly, a second hinge panel 227 can be foldably connected to the bottom panel 221 at an oblique line of weakening or oblique fold line 229.

[0073] The plurality of panels of the blank 203 and construct 205 formed therefrom can also include a first divider end flap or first divider panel 231 foldably connected to the hinge panel 223 at a lateral line of weakening or lateral fold line 233. The divider panel 231 can include a first portion 235 foldably connected to the hinge panel 223 at the lateral fold line 233 and a second portion 237 foldably connected to the first portion 235 at an oblique fold line or oblique line of weakening 239.

[0074] A second divider end flap or second divider panel 241 can be foldably connected to the hinge panel 223 at a longitudinal fold line or longitudinal line of weakening 243.

[0075] The plurality of panels can further include a third divider end flap or third divider panel 245 foldably connected to the hinge panel 227 at a lateral fold line or lateral line of weakening 247. The divider panel 245 can include a first portion 249 foldably connected to the hinge panel 227 at the line of weakening 247, and a second portion 251 foldably connected to the first portion 249 at an oblique fold line or oblique line of weakening 253.

[0076] A fourth divider end flap or a fourth divider panel 255 can be foldably connected to the hinge panel 227 at a longitudinal fold line or longitudinal line of weakening 257.

[0077] The blank 203 and construct 205 formed therefrom can also include a plurality of end flaps foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels. The plurality of end flaps can include a first end flap 259 foldably connected to the second divider panel 241 at a lateral fold line 261 and separable from the second portion 237 of the first divider panel 231 at a generally longitudinal cut 263.

[0078] Similarly, a second end flap 265 can be foldably connected to the fourth divider panel 255 at a longitudinal fold line 267 and separable from the second portion 251 of the third divider panel 245 at a generally longitudinal cut 269.

[0079] It will be understood that the blank 203 and construct 205 formed therefrom can include a different number, arrangement, and/or configuration of panels, end flaps, and/or associated features without departing from the disclosure. [0080] With additional reference to Figs. 7 and 8, formation of the construct 205 from the blank 203 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. It will be understood that intermediate configurations between the blank 203 illustrated in Fig. 6 and the construct 205 illustrated in Fig. 8 can optionally be considered a further folded configuration of the blank 203 or a partially erected configuration of the construct 205.

[0081 ] The blank 203 can be positioned with the exterior surface 201 facing downwardly on a supporting surface and with an interior surface of the blank 203 facing upwardly. The end flaps 259, 265 can be folded at the respective fold lines 261, 267 into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the interior surface of the respective panels 241, 255.

[0082] The panels 231, 245 can be folded at the respective lines of weakening 233, 247 into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the respective hinge panels 223, 227.

[0083] Simultaneously or thereafter, the distal portion 237 of the of the panel 231 can be folded at the fold line 239 such that the distal portion 237 of the panel 231 is positioned in overlapping and/or at least partial face-to-face contact with the base portion 235 of the panel 231 and such that an interior surface of the distal portion 237 of the panel 231 is positioned facing away from the interior surface of the hinge panel 223.

[0084] Similarly, the distal portion 251 of the of the panel 245 can be folded at the fold line 253 such that the distal portion 251 of the panel 245 is positioned in overlapping and/or at least partial face-to-face contact with the base portion 249 of the panel 245 and such that an interior surface of the distal portion 251 of the panel 245 is positioned facing away from the interior surface of the hinge panel 227.

[0085] The panels 241, 255 can then be folded at the respective lines of weakening 243, 257 such that the panels 241, 255 are positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective hinge panels 223, 227, with the end flaps 259, 265 carried thereon positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the panels 231, 245, e.g., the respective interior surfaces of the respective distal portions 237, 251 thereof.

[0086] Such an arrangement can be at least partially maintained with an adhesive such as glue. In one embodiment, one or more applications of adhesive can be provided on the exterior surfaces of the respective end flaps 259, 265 such that the end flaps 259, 265 can be adhered to respective portions of the respective panels 231, 245. [0087] In one embodiment, the aforementioned arrangement can be a collapsed configuration of the construct 205 that has a generally flattened profile, for example, for shipping, storage, stacking, etc., in a minimized or space-saving arrangement.

[0088] Thereafter, the panels 231, 241 can be folded at the respective lines of weakening 233, 243 to extend in generally upright relation to the hinge panel 223, with the panels 233, 243 joined via the end flap 259. Similarly, the panels 245, 254 can be folded upwardly at the respective lines of weakening 247, 257 to extend in generally upright relation to the hinge panel 227, with the panels 245, 255 joined via the end flap 265.

[0089] Simultaneously or thereafter, the hinge panel 223, with the panels 231, 241 extending upwardly therefrom (or overlapped thereon) and attached to one another via the end flap 259, can be folded at the fold line 225 in the direction of the arrow A3 such that a portion of the exterior surface of the hinge panel 223 is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the exterior surface of the bottom panel 221.

[0090] Similarly, the hinge panel 227, with the panels 245, 255 extending upwardly therefrom (or overlapped thereon) and atached to each other via the end flap 265, can be folded at the fold line 229 in the direction of the arrow A4 such that a portion of the exterior surface of the hinge panel 227 is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the exterior surface of the botom panel 221.

[0091] The aforementioned arrangement of the hinge panel 223 and divider panels 231 , 241 j oined via the end flap 259 can be a first hingeable portion 271 of the blank 203/construct 205, and the arrangement of the hinge panel 227 and divider panels 245, 255 joined via the end flap 265 can be a second hingeable portion 273 of the blank 203/construct 205. As described herein the hingeable portions 271, 273 are moveable relative to the botom panel 221 to form divider features of the construct 205.

[0092] The aforementioned arrangement of the construct 205, as shown in Fig. 8, can be configured as a divider insert that provides divider features for another container such as the tray T. As described herein, the divider features of the construct 205 can include a plurality of divider walls extending upwardly from the botom panel 221. [0093] As shown, the divider features of the construct 205 can include a first divider wall 275 at least partially formed by the divider panel 241, a second divider wall 277 at least partially formed by the divider panel 231 and the end flap 259, a third divider wall 279 at least partially formed by the divider panel 255, and a fourth divider wall 281 at least partially formed by the divider panel 245 and the end flap 265.

[0094] With additional reference to Fig. 9, the construct 205 can be at least partially received in the interior N of the tray T to form a system 210. In the system 210, the divider walls 275, 277, 279, 281 are arranged extending upwardly from the bottom B of the tray T to form a plurality of compartment spaces or compartments 283, 285, 287, 289 that are each a respective portion of the interior N of the tray T, e.g., to provide separated receiving spaces for articles or products in the system 210.

[0095] In this regard, the construct 205 can be provided separately from trays T or other containers to provide an optional divider insert for an existing supply of trays or other containers, e.g., for use in situations in which a compartmented interior for a given tray or container is desired. In some embodiments, the construct(s) 205 can be provided together with trays T or other systems as a kit or package for forming compartmented trays (e.g., the system 210).

[0096] It will be understood that the construct 205, the tray T, and/or one or more respective features thereof can have a different arrangement or configuration without departing from the disclosure.

[0097] Turning to Fig. 10, the exterior surface 301 of a blank 303 for forming a construct 305 (Fig. 12) is illustrated according to a third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The construct 305 can be configured to form a divider insert, to provide divider features in the interior of another container such as the tray T or another container. In this regard, the construct 305 can be provided together with a tray or other container to form a system 310 (Fig. 13).

[0098] Trays that can be used to form the system 310, e.g., the tray T or another container, can be used for holding one or more articles such as food products, e.g., portioned retail food products that can include one or more of cookies, crackers, cakes, pastries, candies, nuts, popcorn, trail mix, gum, etc. In some embodiments, the articles can include frozen or non-frozen food products that can be provided in discrete portions, for example, chicken nuggets, French fries, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, chips, popcorn, other finger foods, etc. In embodiments, other types of articles that can include food products and/or non-food products can be placed in a tray for service to a customer, for example, at a quick service restaurant or vendor. In some embodiments, such products can be contained in additional packaging and then placed in a tray. Such trays could be otherwise shaped and arranged and could be used to hold other products and/or articles in similar or different environments without departing from the disclosure. [0099] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to provide articles in a tray in at least partial separation from one another, e.g., to avoid commingling of different food products, for ease of service of use, to more prominently display such different articles to a customer, etc. In this regard, it can be desirable to provide divider features in the tray to provide at least partial separation between such articles, as described further herein.

[00100] With continued reference to Fig. 10, the blank 303 has the longitudinal axis LI and the lateral axis L2. The blank 303 can have a plurality of panels that include a bottom panel 321, a first hinge panel 323 foldably connected to the bottom panel 321 at an oblique line of weakening or oblique fold line 325, a second hinge panel 327 foldably connected to the bottom panel 321 at an oblique line of weakening or oblique fold line 329, a third hinge panel 331 foldably connected to the bottom panel 321 at an oblique line of weakening or oblique fold line 333, and a fourth hinge panel 335 foldably connected to the bottom panel 321 at an oblique line of weakening or oblique fold line 337.

[00101] The plurality of panels of the blank 303 and construct 305 formed therefrom can also include a first divider end flap or first divider panel 339 foldably connected to the hinge panel 323 at a lateral line of weakening or lateral fold line 341. The divider panel 339 can include a first portion 343 foldably connected to the hinge panel 323 at the lateral fold line 341 and a second portion 345 foldably connected to the first portion 343 at an oblique fold line or oblique line of weakening 347.

[00102] A second divider end flap or second divider panel 349 can be foldably connected to the hinge panel 323 at a longitudinal fold line or longitudinal line of weakening 351.

[00103] The plurality of panels can further include a third divider end flap or third divider panel

353 foldably connected to the hinge panel 327 at a lateral fold line or lateral line of weakening 355. The divider panel 353 can include a first portion 357 foldably connected to the hinge panel 327 at the line of weakening 355, and a second portion 359 foldably connected to the first portion 357 at an oblique fold line or oblique line of weakening 361.

[00104] A fourth divider end flap or a fourth divider panel 363 can be foldably connected to the hinge panel 327 at a longitudinal fold line or longitudinal line of weakening 365.

[00105] The plurality of panels can also include a fifth divider end flap or fifth divider panel 367 foldably connected to the hinge panel 331 at a lateral fold line or lateral line of weakening 369. The divider panel 367 can include a first portion 371 foldably connected to the hinge panel 331 at the line of weakening 369, and a second portion 373 foldably connected to the first portion 371 at an oblique fold line or oblique line of weakening 375.

[00106] A sixth divider end flap or a sixth divider panel 377 can be foldably connected to the hinge panel 331 at a longitudinal fold line or longitudinal line of weakening 379.

[00107] The plurality of panels can further include a seventh divider end flap or seventh divider panel 381 foldably connected to the hinge panel 335 at a lateral fold line or lateral line of weakening 383. The divider panel 381 can include a first portion 385 foldably connected to the hinge panel 335 at the line of weakening 383, and a second portion 387 foldably connected to the first portion 385 at an oblique fold line or oblique line of weakening 389.

[00108] An eighth divider end flap or an eighth divider panel 391 can be foldably connected to the hinge panel 335 at a longitudinal fold line or longitudinal line of weakening 393.

[00109] In the illustrated arrangement, the first divider panel 339 can be separably connected to the seventh divider panel 381 at a longitudinal tear line 395, the second divider panel 349 can be separably connected to the fourth divider panel 363 at a lateral tear line 397, the third divider panel 353 can be separably connected to the fifth divider panel 367 at a longitudinal tear line 399, and the sixth divider panel 377 can be separably connected to the eighth divider panel 391 at a lateral tear line 401.

[00110] The blank 303 and construct 305 formed therefrom can also include a plurality of end flaps foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels. The plurality of end flaps can include a first end flap 403 foldably connected to the second divider panel 349 at a lateral fold line 405, a second end flap 407 foldably connected to the fourth divider panel 363 at a lateral fold line 409, a third end flap 411 foldably connected to the sixth divider panel 377 at a lateral fold line 413, and a fourth end flap 415 foldably connected to the eighth divider panel 391 at a lateral fold line 417.

[00111] It will be understood that the blank 303 and construct 305 formed therefrom can include a different number, arrangement, and/or configuration of panels, end flaps, and/or associated features without departing from the disclosure.

[00112] With additional reference to Figs. 11 and 12, formation of the construct 305 from the blank 303 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. It will be understood that intermediate configurations between the blank 303 illustrated in Fig. 10 and the construct 305 illustrated in Fig. 12 can optionally be considered a further folded configuration of the blank 303 or a partially erected configuration of the construct 305.

[00113] The blank 303 can be positioned with the exterior surface 301 facing downwardly on a supporting surface and with an interior surface of the blank 303 facing upwardly. The end flaps 403, 407, 411, 415 can be folded at the respective fold lines 405, 409, 413, 417 and into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the interior surface of the respective panels 349, 363, 377, 391.

[00114] Simultaneously or thereafter, the panel 339 can be folded at the fold line 341 into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the bottom panel 321 and the hinge panel 323, the panel 353 can be folded at the fold line 355 into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the bottom panel 321 and the hinge panel 327, the panel 367 can be folded at the fold line 369 into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the bottom panel 321 and the hinge panel 331, and the panel 381 can be folded at the fold line 383 into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the bottom panel 321 and the hinge panel 335.

[00115] The second portion 345 of the panel 339 can then be folded at the fold line 347, the second portion 359 of the panel 353 can be folded at the fold line 361, the second portion 373 of the panel 367 can be folded at the fold line 375, and the second portion 387 of the panel 381 can be folded at the fold line 389.

[00116] In some embodiments, one or more of the respective second portions 345, 359, 373, 387 can be positioned in at least partial face to face contact with the respective first portion 343, 357, 371, 385.

[00117] The panel 349 can then be folded at the fold line 351 such that the end flap 403 carried thereon is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the interior surface of the second portion 345 of the panel 339, the panel 363 can be folded at the fold line 365 such that the end flap 407 carried thereon is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the interior surface of the second portion 359 of the panel 353, the panel 377 can be folded at the fold line 379 such that the end flap 411 carried thereon is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the interior surface of the second portion 373 of the panel 367, and the panel 391 can be folded at the fold line 393 such that the end flap 415 carried thereon is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the interior surface of the second portion 387 of the panel 381. [00118] Such an arrangement can be at least partially maintained with an adhesive such as glue. In one embodiment, one or more applications of adhesive can be provided on the exterior surfaces of the respective end flaps 403, 407, 411, 415 such that the end flaps 349, 363, 377, 391 can be adhered to respective portions of the respective panels 338, 353, 367, 381.

[00119] In one embodiment, the aforementioned arrangement can be a collapsed configuration of the construct 305 that has a generally flattened profile, for example, for shipping, storage, stacking, etc., in a minimized or space-saving arrangement.

[00120] With continued reference to Figs. 11 and 12, the panel 339 can be folded at the fold line 341 into generally upright relation with the hinge panel 323 and bottom panel 321, the panel 349 can be folded at the fold line 351 into generally upright relation with the hinge panel 323 and bottom panel 321, the panel 353 can be folded at the fold line 355 into generally upright relation with the hinge panel 327 and the bottom panel 321, the panel 363 can be folded at the fold line 365 into generally upright relation with the hinge panel 327 and the bottom panel 321, the panel 367 can be folded at the fold line 369 into generally upright relation with the hinge panel 331 and the bottom panel 321, the panel 377 can be folded at the fold line 379 into generally upright relation with the hinge panel 331 and the bottom panel 321, the panel 381 can be folded at the fold line 383 into generally upright relation with the hinge panel 335 and the bottom panel 321, and the panel 391 can be folded at the fold line 393 into generally upright relation with the hinge panel 335 and the bottom panel 321.

[00121] It will be understood that the aforementioned movement of one of more of the panels 339, 349, 353, 363, 367, 377, 381, 391 can at least partially cause the aforementioned of one or more respective adjacent panel via a respective attachment at a respective end flap 403, 407, 411, 415 and/or via connection at a respective tear line 395, 397, 399, 401.

[00122] Furthermore, the aforementioned movement of the panel 339, 353, 367, 381 can include relative folding of the second portion 345 of the panel 339 and the first portion 343 of the panel 339 at the fold line 347, relative folding of the second portion 359 of the panel 353 and the first portion 357 of the panel 353 at the fold line 361, relative folding of the second portion 373 of the panel 367 and the first portion 371 of the panel 367 at the fold line 375, and relative folding of the second portion 387 of the panel 381 and the first portion 385 of the panel 381 at the fold line 381. Such relative movement can position the portions 343, 345 of the panel 339 in generally planar relation, the portions 357, 359 of the panel 353 in generally planar relation, the portions 371, 373 of the panel 367 in generally planar relation, and the portions 385, 387 of the panel 381 in generally planar relation. [00123] The hinge panel 323, with the panels 339, 349 extending upwardly therefrom (and attached to one another via the end flap 403, can be folded at the fold line 325 in the direction of the arrow A5 such that a portion of the exterior surface of the hinge panel 323 is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the exterior surface of the bottom panel 321.

[00124] Similarly, the hinge panel 327, with the panels 353, 363 extending upwardly therefrom and attached to each other via the end flap 407, can be folded at the fold line 329 in the direction of the arrow A6 such that a portion of the exterior surface of the hinge panel 327 is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the exterior surface of the bottom panel 321.

[00125] The hinge panel 331, with the panels 367, 377 extending upwardly therefrom and attached to each other via the end flap 411, can be folded at the fold line 333 in the direction of the arrow A7 such that a portion of the exterior surface of the hinge panel 331 is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the exterior surface of the bottom panel 321.

[00126] The hinge panel 335, with the panels 381, 391 extending upwardly therefrom and attached to each other via the end flap 415, can be folded at the fold line 337 in the direction of the arrow A8 such that a portion of the exterior surface of the hinge panel 335 is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the exterior surface of the bottom panel 321.

[00127] Such movement of the hinge panels 323, 327, 331, 335 and the panels/end flaps extending therefrom can include the separation of the panel 343 from the panel 381 at the tear line 395, the separation of the panel 349 from the panel 363 at the tear line 397, the separation of the panel 353 from the panel 371 at the tear line 399, and the separation of the panel 377 from the panel 391 at the tear line 401.

[00128] The aforementioned arrangement of the hinge panel 323 and panels 339, 349 joined via the end flap 403 can be a first hingeable portion 419 of the blank 303/construct 305, the arrangement of the hinge panel 327 and the panels 353, 363 joined via the end flap 407 can be a second hingeable portion 421 of the blank 303/construct 305, the arrangement of the hinge panel 331 and the panels 367, 377 joined via that end flap 411 can be a third hingeable portion 423 of the blank 303/construct 305, and the arrangement of the hinge panel 335 and the panels 381, 391 joined via the end flap 415 can be a fourth hingeable portion 425 of the blank 303/construct 305 . As described herein the hingeable portions 419, 421, 423, 425, are moveable relative to the bottom panel 321 to form divider features of the construct 305. [00129] The aforementioned arrangement of the construct 305, as shown in Fig. 12, can be configured as a divider insert that provides divider features for another container such as the tray T. As described herein, the divider features of the construct 305 can include a plurality of divider walls extending upwardly from the bottom panel 321.

[00130] As shown, the divider features of the construct 305 can include a first divider wall 429 at least partially formed by the panels 339, 381 and end flaps 403, 415, a second divider wall 431 at least partially formed by the panels 349, 363, a third divider wall 433 at least partially formed by the panels 353, 367 and the end flaps 407, 411 and a fourth divider wall 435 at least partially formed by the panels 377, 391.

[00131] With additional reference to Fig. 13, the construct 305 can be at least partially received in the interior N of the tray T to form a system 310. In the system 310, the divider walls 429, 431, 433, 435 are arranged extending upwardly from the botom B of the tray T to form a plurality of compartment spaces or compartments 437, 439, 441, 443 that are each a respective portion of the interior N of the tray T, e.g., to provide separated receiving spaces for articles or products in the system 310.

[00132] As shown, an additional compartment space 445 can be formed in the interior N of the tray T, defined between respective portions of the panels 329, 363, 367, 391 proximate a central portion of the tray T along which the bottom panel 321 of the construct 305 is exposed, e.g., such that no portion of the hinge panels 323, 327, 331, 335 is overlapped thereupon.

[00133] In this regard, the construct 305 can be provided separately from trays T or other containers to provide an optional divider insert for an existing supply of trays or other containers, e.g., for use in situations in which a compartmented interior for a given tray or container is desired. In some embodiments, the construct(s) 305 can be provided together with trays T or other systems as a kit or package for forming compartmented trays (e.g., the system 310).

[00134] It will be understood that the construct 305, the tray T, and/or one or more respective features thereof can have a different arrangement or configuration without departing from the disclosure.

[00135] Turning to Fig. 14, an exterior surface 501 of a blank 503 for forming a construct 505 (Fig. 17) according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The construct 505 can be configured to form a divider insert, to provide divider features in the interior of another container such as a tray or other container. In this regard, the construct 505 can be provided together with a tray or other container to form a system 510 (Fig. 8). [00136] With momentary reference to Fig. 15, a tray T1 for use with the construct 505 according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. The tray T1 can include a bottom Bl and side walls S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S10, Si l, S12 extending upwardly from the bottom Bl so as to define an interior N1 of the tray Tl. It will be understood that one or more of the bottom Bl and side walls S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S10, Si l, S12 of the tray Tl can be formed from one or more panels and/or end flaps. In some embodiments, the side panels S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S10, Si l, S12 can be formed from respective side panels that are foldably connected to a bottom panel forming the bottom Bl of the tray Tl at respective fold lines, with one or more adjacent side panels attached to one another via one or more respective end flaps and/or via lines of weakening. While the tray Tl is illustrated as having a generally octagonal profile, it will be understood that the tray Tl can have a different arrangement without departing from the disclosure.

[00137] In some embodiments, the tray T 1 can incorporate a lid U foldably connected to one or more panels of the tray and for being positioned at least partially overlying the interior N1 of the tray Tl .

[00138] Trays that can be used to form the system 510, e.g., the tray Tl or another container, can be used for holding one or more articles such as food products, e.g., portioned retail food products that can include one or more of cookies, crackers, cakes, pastries, candies, nuts, popcorn, trail mix, gum, etc. In some embodiments, the articles can include frozen or non-frozen food products that can be provided in discrete portions, for example, chicken nuggets, French fries, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, pizza, chips, popcorn, other finger foods, etc. In embodiments, other types of articles that can include food products and/or nonfood products can be placed in a tray for service to a customer, for example, at a quick service restaurant or vendor. In some embodiments, such products can be contained in additional packaging and then placed in a tray. Such trays could be otherwise shaped and arranged and could be used to hold other products and/or articles in similar or different environments without departing from the disclosure.

[00139] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to provide articles in a tray in at least partial separation from one another, e.g., to avoid commingling of different food products, for ease of service of use, to more prominently display such different articles to a customer, etc. In this regard, it can be desirable to provide divider features in the tray to provide at least partial separation between such articles, as described further herein.

[00140] With continued reference to Fig. 14, the blank 503 has the longitudinal axis LI and the lateral axis L2, and the blank 503 can include a first portion 507 for forming a first portion 509 of the construct 505, and a second portion 511 for forming a second portion 513 of the construct 505. As shown, the first portion 507 of the blank 503/first portion 509 of the construct 505 can be foldably connected to the second portion 511 of the blank 503/second portion 513 of the construct 505.

[00141] The blank 503 can have a plurality of panels that include a first bottom panel 521a and a second bottom panel 523a. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom panel 521a can have a generally triangular profile and the bottom panel 523 a can have a generally trapezoidal profile, though one or both of the bottom panels 521a, 523a can have a different configuration without departing from the disclosure.

[00142] The plurality of panels can further include a divider panel 525a (broadly, “first divider panel” or “second divider panel” or “third divider panel” or “fourth divider panel”) foldably connected to the first bottom panel 521a at an oblique fold line 527a, a divider panel 529a (broadly, “first divider panel” or “second divider panel” or “third divider panel” or “fourth divider panel”) foldably connected to the bottom panel 521a at an oblique fold line 53 la, and a side panel 533a foldably connected to the bottom panel 521a at a lateral fold line 535a.

[00143] The panels can further include a side panel 537a foldably connected to the bottom panel 523a at a lateral fold line 539a, a side panel 541a (broadly, “first divider panel” or “second divider panel” or “third divider panel” or “fourth divider panel”) foldably connected to the bottom panel 523a at an oblique fold line 543a, a divider panel 545a (broadly, “first divider panel” or “second divider panel” or “third divider panel” or “fourth divider panel”) foldably connected to the bottom panel 523a at a lateral fold line 547a, and a side panel 549a foldably connected to the bottom panel 523a at an oblique fold line 551a. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel 537a can be foldably connected to the panel 535a at a lateral fold line 553a.

[00144] In some embodiments, the plurality of panels can include a plurality of gusset panels foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels. As shown, a gusset panel 555a can be foldably connected to the divider panel 545a at an oblique fold line 557a, and a gusset panel 559a can be foldably connected to the divider panel 545a at an oblique fold line 561a.

[00145] The blank 503 and construct 505 formed therefrom can also include a plurality of end flaps foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels. In the illustrated embodiment, the end flaps can include an end flap 563a foldably connected to the side panel 541a at an oblique fold line 565a, an end flap 567a foldably connected to the side panel 549a at an oblique fold line 569a, an end flap 571a foldably connected to the gusset panel 555a at a longitudinal fold line 573a, and an end flap 575a foldably connected to the gusset panel 559a at a longitudinal fold line 577a. [00146] In the illustrated embodiment, the back portion 511 of the blank 503/back portion 513 of the construct 505 is generally a mirror- image of the corresponding portions of the front portion 507 of the blank 503/front portion 509 of the construct 505. Corresponding components (e.g., panels, flaps, fold lines, cuts, etc.) have been designated by corresponding reference numbers that differ by the “a” or “b” suffix, with the “a” components corresponding to the front portion 507 of the blank 503/front portion 509 of the construct 505 and the “b” components corresponding to the back portion 511 of the blank 503/back portion 513 of the construct 505. As shown, the divider panel 545b can be foldably connected to the divider panel 545a at a lateral fold line 579, such that the front portion 507 of the blank 503/front portion 509 of the construct 505 is foldably connected to the back portion 511 of the blank 503/back portion 513 of the construct 505 at the fold line 579.

[00147] It will be understood that the blank 503 and construct 505 formed therefrom can include a different number, arrangement, and/or configuration of panels, end flaps, and/or associated features without departing from the disclosure.

[00148] With additional reference to Figs. 16 and 17, formation of the construct 505 from the blank 503 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. It will be understood that intermediate configurations between the blank 503 illustrated in Fig. 15 and the construct 505 illustrated in Fig. 17 can optionally be considered a further folded configuration of the blank 503 or a partially erected configuration of the construct 505.

[00149] The blank 503 can be positioned with the exterior surface 501 facing downwardly on a supporting surface and with an interior surface of the blank 503 facing upwardly. The gusset panel 555a can be folded at the fold line 557a into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the divider panel 545a, the gusset panel 555b can be folded at the fold line 557a into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the divider panel 545b, the gusset panel 559a can be folded at the fold line 561a into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the divider panel 545a, and the gusset panel 559b can be folded at the fold line 561b into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the divider panel 545b.

[00150] Such movement of the gusset panels 555a, 555b, 559a, 559b can position the respective end flaps 571a, 571b, 575a, 575b foldably connected thereto into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the respective bottom panels 523a, 523b. [00151] The side panel 541a can then be folded at the fold line 543a into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the bottom panel 523a and the end flap 571a, the side panel 541b can be folded at the fold line 543b into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the bottom panel 523b and the end flap 571b, the side panel 549a can be folded at the fold line 551a into at least partial face- to-face contact with a respective portion of the bottom panel 523a and the end flap 575a, and the side panel 549b can be folded at the fold line 551b into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the bottom panel 523b and the end flap 575b.

[00152] The aforementioned movement of the side panels 541a, 541b, 549a, 549b can carry the respective end flaps 563a, 563b, 567a, 567b foldably connected thereto into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the side panels 537a, 537b.

[00153] The divider panels 545a, 545b can then be obliquely arranged relative to one another, for example, via relative folding at the fold lines 547a, 547b, 579, such that the divider panels 545a, 545b extend obliquely downwardly from the fold line 579 away from each other and toward a supporting surface.

[00154] Simultaneously or thereafter, the side panel 541a can be folded at the fold line 543a into generally upright relation to the bottom panel 523a, the side panel 541b can be folded at the fold line 543b into generally upright relation to the bottom panel 523b, the side panel 549a can be folded at the fold line 551a into generally upright relation to the bottom panel 523a, and the side panel 549b can be folded at the fold line 551b into generally upright relation to the bottom panel 523b.

[00155] The side panel 537a can be folded at the fold line 539a into generally upright relation to the bottom panel 523 a, and the side panel 537b can be folded at the fold line 539b into generally upright relation to the bottom panel 523b.

[00156] Thereafter, the side panel 533a can be folded downwardly at the fold line 553a such that the side panels 533a, 537a are positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the end flaps 563a, 567a positioned therebetween. Similarly, the side panel 533b can be folded downwardly at the fold line 553b such that the side panels 533b, 537b are positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the end flaps 563b, 567b positioned therebetween.

[00157] In such an arrangement the bottom panels 521a, 521b can be positioned in at least partial face-to- face contact with the respective bottom panels 523a, 523b. Simultaneously or thereafter, the divider panels 525a, 529a can be folded at the respective fold lines 527a, 531a into generally upright relation with the bottom panel 521a, and the divider panels 525b, 529b can be folded at the respective fold lines 527b, 53 lb into generally upright relation with the bottom panel 521b.

[00158] Such an arrangement can be at least partially maintained with an adhesive such as glue. In one embodiment, one or more applications of adhesive can be provided on the exterior surfaces of the respective end flaps 563a, 567a, 571a, 575a, 563b, 567b, 571b, 575b such that the end flaps 563a, 567a, 571a, 575a, 563b, 567b, 571b, 575b can be adhered to respective portions of the respective panels 537a, 541a, 549a, 537b, 541b, 549b.

[00159] The aforementioned arrangement of the construct 505, as shown in Fig. 17, can be configured as a divider insert that provides divider features for another container such as the tray T1. As described herein, the divider features of the construct 505 can include a plurality of divider walls extending upwardly from the bottom panels 523a, 523b.

[00160] As shown, the divider features of the construct 505 can include a first divider wall 581 at least partially formed by the divider panel 525a, a second divider wall 582 at least partially formed by respective portions of the divider panels 545a, 545b, a third divider wall 583 at least partially formed by the divider panel 529b, a fourth divider wall 584 at least partially formed by the divider panel 525b, a fifth divider wall 585 at least partially formed by respective portions of the divider panels 545a, 545b, and a sixth divider wall 586 at least partially formed by the divider panel 529a.

[00161] With additional reference to Fig. 18, the construct 505 can be at least partially received in the interior N1 of the tray T1 to form a system 510. In the system 510, the divider walls 581, 582, 583, 584, 585, 586 are arranged extending upwardly from the bottom Bl of the tray T1 to form a plurality of compartment spaces or compartments 587, 588, 589, 590, 591, 592 that are each a respective portion of the interior N1 of the tray Tl, e.g., to provide separated receiving spaces for articles or products in the system 510.

[00162] In the illustrated embodiment, compartments in the interior N1 of the tray Tl can be arranged as follows: the compartment 587 can be at least partially defined between the side panel 533a, the divider panels 525a, 529a, and the bottom panel 521a; the compartment 588 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 529a, 545a, the side panel 549a, and the bottom panel 523a; the compartment 589 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 545b, 529b, the side panel 549b, and the bottom panel 523b; the compartment 590 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 529b, 525b, the side panel 533b, and the bottom panel 521b; the compartment 591 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 525b, 545b, the side panel 541b, and the bottom panel 523b; and the compartment 592 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 545a, 525a, the side panel 541a, and the bottom panel 523a.

[00163] As shown, the construct 505 can be inserted into the interior N1 of the tray T1 to form the compartments 588, 589, 590, 591, 592. In some embodiments, the compartments can be for at least partially receiving one or more slices of pizza therein, with the tray Tl having the general form of a pizza box or container.

[00164] In this regard, the construct 505 can be provided separately from trays T1 or other containers to provide an optional divider insert for an existing supply of trays or other containers, e.g., for use in situations in which a compartmented interior for a given tray or container is desired. In some embodiments, the construct(s) 505 can be provided together with trays T1 or other systems as a kit or package for forming compartmented trays (e.g., the system 510).

[00165] It will be understood that the construct 505, the tray Tl, and/or one or more respective features thereof can have a different arrangement or configuration without departing from the disclosure. For example, while the tray Tl has been illustrated as having an octagonal profile, it will be understood that the tray Tl can be provided in a different configuration, e.g., square/rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc., without departing from the disclosure. Further, while the construct 505 has been illustrated as having a configuration defining six compartments, it will be understood that the construct 505 can be arranged to form more or less compartments without departing from the disclosure.

[00166] Turning to Fig. 19, the exterior surface 601 of a blank 603 for forming a construct 605 (Fig. 20) according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 603 and the construct 605 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blank 503 and construct 505, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The construct 605 can be provided together with a tray such as the tray Tl to form a system 610 (Fig. 21).

[00167] As shown, the blank 603 has the longitudinal axis LI and the lateral axis L2, and can generally have the form of the front portion 507 of the blank 503 described above. In this regard, the blank 603 can have panels, end flaps, and associated features corresponding to those described above with regard to the front portion 507 of the blank 503 without the “a” suffix. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 603 can have gusset panels 655, 659 foldably connected to the respective side panels 541, 549 at respective longitudinal fold lines 657, 661 instead of the gusset panels 555, 559 described above. [00168] Accordingly, and with additional reference to Fig. 10, the blank 603 can be formed into the construct 605 in a manner similar to that described above with regard to the formation of the front portion 511 of the construct 505 from the front portion 507 of the blank 503.

[00169] The formed construct 605, as shown in Fig. 20, can be configured as a divider insert that provides divider features for another container such as the tray Tl. As described herein, the divider features of the construct 605 can include a plurality of divider walls extending upwardly from the bottom panel 523.

[00170] As shown, the divider features of the construct 605 can include a first divider wall 681 at least partially formed by the divider panel 525, a second divider wall 682 at least partially formed by the divider panel 529, and a third divider wall 683 at least partially defined by the divider panel 545.

[00171] With additional reference to Fig. 21, the construct 605 can be at least partially received in the interior N1 of the tray Tl to form the system 610. In the system 610, the divider walls 681, 682, 683 are arranged extending upwardly from the bottom Bl of the tray Tl to form a plurality of compartment spaces or compartments 687, 688, 689 that are each a respective portion of the interior N1 of the tray Tl, e.g., to provide separated receiving spaces for articles or products in the system 610.

[00172] In the illustrated embodiment, compartments in the interior N1 of the tray Tl can be arranged as follows: the compartment 687 can be at least partially defined between the side panel 533, the divider panels 525, 529, and the bottom panel 521; the compartment 688 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 529, 545, the side panel 549, and the bottom panel 523; and the compartment 689 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 545, 525, the side panel 541, and the bottom panel 523.

[00173] As also shown, an additional compartment 690 can be formed between the divider panel 545, the bottom Bl of the tray Tl, and the sides of the tray Tl that are not in overlapping relation with the construct 605.

[00174] In this regard, the construct 605 can be inserted into the interior N1 of the tray Tl to form the compartments 687, 688, 689, 690. In some embodiments, the compartments 687, 688, 689 can be for at least partially receiving one or more slices of pizza therein, with the tray Tl having the general form of a pizza box or container. The compartment 690 can be used to hold a larger quantity of pizza, e.g., larger slices or sections of a pizza and/or a greater quantity of slices of pizza. In some embodiments, the compartment 690 can be used to hold one or more food items other than pizza, e.g., calzones, breads, mozzarella sticks, nachos, French fries, wings, condiments or sauces, etc. [00175] In this regard, the construct 605 can be provided separately from trays T1 or other containers to provide an optional divider insert for an existing supply of trays or other containers, e.g., for use in situations in which a compartmented interior for a given tray or container is desired. In some embodiments, the construct(s) 605 can be provided together with trays T1 or other systems as a kit or package for forming compartmented trays (e.g., the system 610).

[00176] Turning to Fig. 22, the exterior surface 701 of a blank 703 for forming a construct 705 (Fig. 24) according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 703 and the construct 705 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 503, 603 and constructs 505, 605 and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The construct 705 can be provided together with a tray such as the tray T1 to form a system 710 (Fig. 25).

[00177] As shown, the blank 703 has the longitudinal axis LI and the lateral axis L2, a front portion 707 for forming a front portion 709 of the construct 705, and the blank 703 can have a back portion 711 for forming a back portion 713 of the construct 705.

[00178] The front portion 707 of the blank 703 can include the bottom panel 521a, the divider panel 525a foldably connected to the bottom panel 521 a at the fold line 527a, the divider panel 529a foldably connected to the bottom panel 521a at the fold line 531a, the bottom panel 523a, the side panel 541a foldably connected to the bottom panel 523a at the fold line 543a, the side panel 549a foldably connected to the bottom panel 523a at the fold line 551a, the divider panel 545a foldably connected to the bottom panel 523a at the fold line 547a, the gusset panels 555a, 559a foldably connected to the divider panel 545a at the respective fold lines 557a, 561a, and the end flaps 571a, 575a foldably connected to the respective gusset panels 555a, 559a at the respective fold lines 573a, 577a.

[00179] In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom panel 521a can be foldably connected to the bottom panel

523a at a lateral fold line 739a, the divider panel 525a can be foldably connected to the side panel 541a at an oblique fold line or line of weakening 765a, and the divider panel 529a can be foldably connected to the side panel 549a at an oblique fold line or line of weakening 769a.

[00180] The blank 703 and construct 705 formed therefrom can also include locking features including a locking tab 721a protruding from the bottom panel 521a and for being at least partially received in a locking cut or locking opening 723a interrupting the fold line 547a. [00181] In the illustrated embodiment, the back portion 711 of the blank 703/back portion 713 of the construct 705 is generally a mirror- image of the corresponding portions of the front portion 707 of the blank 703/front portion 709 of the construct 705. Corresponding components (e.g., panels, flaps, fold lines, cuts, etc.) have been designated by corresponding reference numbers that differ by the “a” or “b” suffix, with the “a” components corresponding to the front portion 707 of the blank 703/front portion 709 of the construct 705 and the “b” components corresponding to the back portion 711 of the blank 703/back portion 713 of the construct 705. As shown, the divider panel 545b can be foldably connected to the divider panel 545a at the lateral fold line 579, such that the front portion 707 of the blank 703/front portion 709 of the construct 705 is foldably connected to the back portion 711 of the blank 703/back portion 713 of the construct 705 at the fold line 579.

[00182] With additional reference to Figs. 23 and 24, formation of the construct 705 from the blank 703 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. It will be understood that intermediate configurations between the blank 703 illustrated in Fig. 22 and the construct 705 illustrated in Fig. 24 can optionally be considered a further folded configuration of the blank 703 or a partially erected configuration of the construct 705.

[00183] The blank 703 can be positioned with the exterior surface 701 facing downwardly on a supporting surface and with an interior surface of the blank 703 facing upwardly. The gusset panel 555a can be folded at the fold line 557a into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the divider panel 545a, the gusset panel 555b can be folded at the fold line 557a into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the divider panel 545b, the gusset panel 559a can be folded at the fold line 561a into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the divider panel 545a, and the gusset panel 559b can be folded at the fold line 561b into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the divider panel 545b.

[00184] Such movement of the gusset panels 555a, 555b, 559a, 559b can position the respective end flaps

571a, 571b, 575a, 575b foldably connected thereto into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the respective bottom panels 523a, 523b.

[00185] The side panel 541a can then be folded at the fold line 543a into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the bottom panel 523a and the end flap 571a, the side panel 541b can be folded at the fold line 543b into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the bottom panel 523b and the end flap 571b, the side panel 549a can be folded at the fold line 551a into at least partial face- to-face contact with a respective portion of the bottom panel 523a and the end flap 575a, and the side panel 549b can be folded at the fold line 551a into at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the bottom panel 523b and the end flap 575b.

[00186] The aforementioned movement of the panels 541a, 549a, 541b, 549b can carry the panels 525a, 529a, 525b, 529b attached thereto into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the respective bottom panels 521a, 521b.

[00187] The divider panels 545a, 545b can then be obliquely arranged relative to one another, for example, via relative folding at the fold lines 547a, 547b, 579, such that the divider panels 545a, 545b extend obliquely downwardly from the fold line 579 away from each other and toward a supporting surface.

[00188] Simultaneously or thereafter, the side panel 541a can be folded at the fold line 543a into generally upright relation to the bottom panel 523a, the side panel 541b can be folded at the fold line 543b into generally upright relation to the bottom panel 523b, the side panel 549a can be folded at the fold line 551a into generally upright relation to the bottom panel 523a, and the side panel 549b can be folded at the fold line 551b into generally upright relation to the bottom panel 523b.

[00189] The aforementioned movement of the panels 541a, 549a, 541b, 549b can cause the respective panels 525a, 529a, 525b, 529b attached thereto to fold upwardly at the respective fold lines 543a, 551a, 543b, 551b into generally upright relation to respective portions of the respective bottom panels 521a, 521b.

[00190] The bottom panel 521a can then be folded at the fold line 739a into at least partial face-to-face contract with the bottom panel 523a, and the bottom panel 521b can be folded at the fold line 739b into at least partial face-to-face contact with the bottom panel 523b.

[00191] Such movement of the bottom panel 521a can cause the divider panel 525a to fold relative to the side panel 541a at the fold line 765a and can cause the divider panel 529a to fold relative to the side panel 549a at the fold line 769a. Similarly, the divider panel 525b can fold relative to the side panel 541b at the fold line 765a and the divider panel 529b can fold relative to the side panel 549b.

[00192] The aforementioned movement of the panels 525a, 525b, 529a, 529b, 541a, 541b, 549a, 549b can cause the divider panel 525a to at least partially separate from the side panel 541a at the line of weakening 765a, can cause the divider panel 529a to at least partially separate from the side panel 549a at the line of weakening 769a, can cause the divider panel 525b to at least partially separate from the side panel 541b at the line of weakening 765b, and can cause the divider panel 529b to at least partially separate from the side panel 549b at the line of weakening 769b.

[00193] The locking tab 721a can be at least partially inserted through a locking opening formed by the cut 723a and the locking tab 721b can be at least partially inserted through a locking opening formed by the cut 723b to at least partially maintain the aforementioned arrangement of the construct 705.

[00194] The formed configuration of the construct 705, as shown in Fig. 24, can be configured as a divider insert that provides divider features for another container such as the tray Tl. As described herein, the divider features of the construct 705 can include a plurality of divider walls extending upwardly from the bottom panels 523a, 523b.

[00195] As shown, the divider features of the construct 705 can include a first divider wall 781 at least partially formed by the divider panel 525a, a second divider wall 782 at least partially formed by respective portions of the divider panels 545a, 545b, a third divider wall 783 at least partially formed by the divider panel 529b, a fourth divider wall 784 at least partially formed by the divider panel 525b, a fifth divider wall 785 at least partially formed by respective portions of the divider panels 545a, 545b, and a sixth divider wall 786 at least partially formed by the divider panel 529a.

[00196] With additional reference to Fig. 25, the construct 705 can be at least partially received in the interior N1 of the tray Tl to form a system 710. In the system 710, the divider walls 781, 782, 783, 784, 785, 786 are arranged extending upwardly from the bottom Bl of the tray Tl to form a plurality of compartment spaces or compartments 787, 788, 789, 790, 791, 792 that are each a respective portion of the interior N1 of the tray Tl, e.g., to provide separated receiving spaces for articles or products in the system 710.

[00197] In the illustrated embodiment, compartments in the interior N1 of the tray Tl can be arranged as follows: the compartment 787 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 525a, 529a, the bottom panel 521a, and a respective side(s) of the tray Tl; the compartment 788 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 529a, 545a, the side panel 549a, and the bottom panel 523a; the compartment 789 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 545b, 529b, the side panel 549b, and the bottom panel 523b; the compartment 790 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 529b, 525b, the bottom panel 521b, and a respective side(s) of the tray Tl; the compartment 791 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 525b, 545b, the side panel 541b, and the bottom panel 523b; and the compartment 792 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 545a,

525a, the side panel 541a, and the bottom panel 523a. [00198] As shown, the construct 705 can be inserted into the interior N1 of the tray T1 to form the compartments 787, 788, 789, 790, 791, 792. In some embodiments, the compartments can be for at least partially receiving one or more slices of pizza therein, with the tray T1 having the general form of a pizza box or container.

[00199] In this regard, the construct 705 can be provided separately from trays T1 or other containers to provide an optional divider insert for an existing supply of trays or other containers, e.g., for use in situations in which a compartmented interior for a given tray or container is desired. In some embodiments, the construct(s) 705 can be provided together with trays T1 or other systems as a kit or package for forming compartmented trays (e.g., the system 710).

[00200] Turning to Fig. 26, the exterior surface 801 of a blank 803 for forming a construct 805 (Fig. 28) according to a seventh exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 803 and the construct 805 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 503, 603, 703 and constructs 505, 605, 705, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The construct 805 can be provided together with a tray such as the tray T1 to form a system 810 (Fig. 29).

[00201] As shown, the blank 803 has the longitudinal axis LI and the lateral axis L2, and can generally have the form of the front portion 707 of the blank 703 described above. In this regard, the blank 803 can have panels, end flaps, and associated features corresponding to those described above with regard to the front portion 707 of the blank 703 without the “a” suffix. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 803 can have gusset panels 855, 859 foldably connected to the respective side panels 541, 549 at respective longitudinal fold lines 857, 861 instead of the gusset panels 555, 559 described above.

[00202] Accordingly, and with additional reference to Figs. 27 and 28, the blank 803 can be formed into the construct 805 in a manner similar to that described above with regard to the formation of the front portion 711 of the construct 705 from the front portion 707 of the blank 703.

[00203] The formed construct 805, as shown in Fig. 28, can be configured as a divider insert that provides divider features for another container such as the tray Tl. As described herein, the divider features of the construct 805 can include a plurality of divider walls extending upwardly from the bottom panel 523. [00204] As shown, the divider features of the construct 805 can include a first divider wall 881 at least partially formed by the divider panel 525, a second divider wall 882 at least partially formed by the divider panel 529, and a third divider wall 883 at least partially defined by respective portions of the divider panel 545.

[00205] With additional reference to Fig. 29, the construct 805 can be at least partially received in the interior N1 of the tray T1 to form the system 810. In the system 810, the divider walls 881, 882, 883 are arranged extending upwardly from the bottom Bl of the tray T1 to form a plurality of compartment spaces or compartments 887, 888, 889 that are each a respective portion of the interior N of the tray T, e.g., to provide separated receiving spaces for articles or products in the system 810.

[00206] In the illustrated embodiment, compartments in the interior N1 of the tray T1 can be arranged as follows: the compartment 887 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 525, 529, and the bottom panel 521; the compartment 888 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 529, 545, and the bottom panel 523; and the compartment 889 can be at least partially defined between the divider panels 545, 525 and the bottom panel 523.

[00207] As also shown, an additional compartment 890 can be formed between the divider panel 545, the bottom Bl of the tray Tl, and the sides of the tray T1 that are not in overlapping relation with the construct 805.

[00208] In this regard, the construct 805 can be inserted into the interior N1 of the tray Tl to form the compartments 887, 888, 889, 890. In some embodiments, the compartments 887, 888, 889 can be for at least partially receiving one or more slices of pizza therein, with the tray Tl having the general form of a pizza box or container. The compartment 890 can be used to hold a larger quantity of pizza, e.g., larger slices or sections of a pizza and/or a greater quantity of slices of pizza. In some embodiments, the compartment 890 can be used to hold one or more food items other than pizza, e.g., calzones, breads, mozzarella sticks, nachos, French fries, wings, condiments or sauces, etc.

[00209] In this regard, the construct 805 can be provided separately from trays Tl or other containers to provide an optional divider insert for an existing supply of trays or other containers, e.g., for use in situations in which a compartmented interior for a given tray or container is desired. In some embodiments, the construct(s) 805 can be provided together with trays Tl or other systems as a kit or package for forming compartmented trays (e.g., the system 810). [00210] It will be understood that blanks and trays according to the present disclosure can have a different number, arrangement, and/or configuration of features without departing from the disclosure.

[00211] In general, the blanks described herein may be constructed from paperboard having a caliper so that it is heavier and more rigid than ordinary paper. The blanks can also be constructed of other materials, such as cardboard, sheet plastics or any other material having properties suitable for enabling the container to function at least generally as described above. The blanks can be coated with, for example, a clay coating. The clay coating may then be printed over with product, advertising, and other information or images. The blanks may then be coated with a varnish to protect information printed on the blanks. The blanks may also be coated with, for example, a moisture barrier layer, on either or both sides of the blanks. The blanks can also be laminated to or coated with one or more sheet-like materials at selected panels or panel sections.

[00212] As an example, a tear line can include: a slit that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of spaced apart slits that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness, or various combinations of these features. As a more specific example, one type of tear line is in the form of a series of spaced apart slits that extend completely through the material, with adjacent slits being spaced apart slightly so that a nick (e.g., a small somewhat bridging-like piece of the material) is defined between the adjacent slits for typically temporarily connecting the material across the tear line. The nicks are broken during tearing along the tear line. The nicks typically are a relatively small percentage of the tear line, and alternatively the nicks can be omitted from or tom in a tear line such that the tear line is a continuous cut line. That is, it is within the scope of the present disclosure for each of the tear lines to be replaced with a continuous slit, or the like. For example, a cut line can be a continuous slit or could be wider than a slit without departing from the present disclosure.

[00213] In accordance with the exemplary embodiments, a fold line can be any substantially linear, although not necessarily straight, form of weakening that facilitates folding therealong. More specifically, but not for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the present disclosure, fold lines include: a score line, such as lines formed with a blunt scoring knife, or the like, which creates a crushed or depressed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness; a cut that extends partially into a material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of cuts that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness; and various combinations of these features. In situations where cutting is used to create a fold line, typically the cutting will not be overly extensive in a manner that might cause a reasonable user to incorrectly consider the fold line to be a tear line. [00214] The above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels adhered together by glue during erection of the container embodiments. The term “glue” is intended to encompass all manner of adhesives commonly used to secure container panels in place, and is not intended to exclude heat, chemical, or frequency bonding techniques.

[00215] The foregoing description of the disclosure illustrates and describes various embodiments. As various changes could be made in the above construction without departing from the scope of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Furthermore, the scope of the present disclosure covers various modifications, combinations, alterations, etc., of the above-described embodiments. Additionally, the disclosure shows and describes only selected embodiments, but various other combinations, modifications, and environments are within the scope of the disclosure as expressed herein, commensurate with the above teachings, and/or within the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. Furthermore, certain features and characteristics of each embodiment may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiments of the disclosure.