LI, Edwin (Lihe Block，140-505 #, Cang Lang DistrictSuzhou, Jiangsu, Jiangsu, CN)
| WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. A cosmetic packaging system (1), comprising: a base (10) comprising: a bottom wall (37); and a bearing surface (17); a removable tray (7) containing a cosmetic product (P,), the removable tray comprising: one or more latches (23); and a pivot portion (11) configured to bear on the bearing surface (17) to enable a pivoting of the removable tray in relation to the base; wherein the one or more latches (23) is operable from a location (47) on the bottom wall (37), and wherein the latch, the bearing surface, and the pivot portion act to retain the removable tray within the base. 2. The cosmetic packaging system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the bearing surface (17) comprises a curve configured to cooperate with the pivot portion (11) allowing pivoting of the tray from a side opposite the bearing surface (17) when the latch (23) is released. 3. The cosmetic packaging system (1) according to either of the preceding claims, wherein the bearing surface (17) includes a convex portion (42) configured to interface a corresponding concave portion (41) of the pivot portion (11). 4. The cosmetic packaging system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more latches comprise a pawl (58) configured to engage a pawl catch (48) associated with the base (10). 5. The cosmetic packaging system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, the removable tray further comprising a flange portion (67). 6. The cosmetic packaging system (1) of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a cover (15) configured to cover a top face of the removable tray (7). |
TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present disclosure relates generally to cosmetic packaging. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to cosmetic packaging having
interchangeable and/or reusable components.
BACKGROUND
[002] Conservation and recycling of various products has become desirable for many consumers for various reasons, including a general concern for the environment and in some cases, government regulations. For example, metals, plastics, papers, and cardboards are all widely recycled in today's market. Therefore, there is a desire among many consumers to minimize waste and to reuse, when possible, such things as personal product packaging (e.g., soap dispensers, shampoo bottles, detergent bottles, etc.)
[003] Traditionally, cosmetic products have been made available in a number of different packaging systems, many of which have not been reusable. For example, cosmetics have been provided via a "compact" in which a compacted cake or powder is provided along with an applicator within a closable case. When a user has exhausted a supply of cosmetic within the closable case, a new package may be purchased by the user, and the previous closable case may be disposed of, e.g., thrown away. In some instances, a user may not exhaust the cosmetic supply prior to disposal, because, for example, the user may desire a new formulation, color, fragrance, texture, etc. The user may thus dispose of the cosmetic package because it has become undesirable to save it. Such configurations may lead to waste of resources and undesirable additions to landfills and other disposal areas.
[004] In addition, packaging associated with cosmetics may add substantial cost to the price of the cosmetic product. This may be so based on the manufacturer's costs associated with providing such packaging and the desire to recover such costs. Where a user disposes of said packaging, particularly when additional life may be available within the packaging, economic resources may be wasted.
[005] When designing cosmetic packaging for the market, numerous factors may be considered. For example, it has generally been desirable to produce an aesthetically pleasing package, with a desired level of functionality. In other words, where a design has specific performance requirements (e.g., contain an applicator and four coloring products), aesthetics as well as function may be considered. This may lead to a less than desirable package design aesthetically, but possessing the desired functionality. This may be so because packaging is often intended to be primarily functional by nature. Thus, when seeking to incorporate reusability into a design in addition to functional parameters, aesthetics may suffer further.
[006] Therefore, it may be desirable to produce a reusable cosmetic packaging allowing a user to recycle and interchange components of the package as desired, while maintaining a common and pleasing aesthetic for the package.
[007] U.S. Patent No. 4,863,034 describes a container with a removable and replaceable storage tray configured to receive cosmetic inserts. Two members are also provided on the removable storage tray, the members being configured to engage with a top or side portion of a case. Such a system may result in at least the visible presence of the members, thereby providing additional challenges for aesthetic design, among others.
[008] U.S. Patent No. 5,161 ,556 described a makeup box configured to position a platform containing makeup products in a "position of use" and alternatively a "position of display. In order to position the tray in either of the positions, a user aligns parallel guiding tongues with guiding grooves and slides the platform into position to effect a retaining of the platform within the box. Such a design may cause difficulties for less agile users who may encounter trouble aligning the tongues and grooves.
[009] U.S. Patent No. 5,605,167 describes a cosmetic compact having replaceable product trays, along with a plurality of locking elements in the form of studs and mating elements. Such packaging may be expensive to produce, and difficult for some users to manipulate, among other things.
[010] U.S. Patent No. 5,655,553 describes a cosmetic compact having a removable platform and removable cosmetic pans within the platform. Further a plurality of openings perforate a bottom wall of the compact to enable access to a series of article ejector buttons installed between the bottom wall and the removable tray. A user actuating these buttons may thus eject the cosmetic pans. Such a configuration may result in loss of a desired aesthetic due, at least in part, to the openings perforating the bottom wall. Moreover, assembly and cost of the device may be more complex based on installation of the article ejector buttons which are installed between the removable tray and the bottom wall.
[011] It is accordingly an object of the present disclosure to provide a reusable cosmetic packaging, enabling a user to selectively, and easily, remove and replace various cosmetic components within the packaging. Moreover, it is desirable to provide such a packaging with pleasing and consistent aesthetic qualities.
SUMMARY
[012] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a cosmetic packaging system is provided. The cosmetic packaging includes a base comprising a bottom wall and a bearing surface. The cosmetic packaging further includes a removable tray containing at least one cosmetic product, the removable tray comprising one or more latches and a pivot portion configured to bear on the bearing surface to enable a pivoting of the removable tray in relation to the base. The one or more latches is operable from a location on the bottom wall, and the latch, the bearing surface, and the pivot portion act to retain the removable tray within the base.
[013] Using such a system it may be possible to provide a cosmetic packaging enabling a tray containing one or more cosmetic products to be interchangeably removed and replaced while maintaining a desired aesthetic. Further, embodiments of present disclosure enable a user to quickly change the removable trays and/or individual cosmetic products therein with reduced waste.
[014] According to some embodiments, the bearing surface can include a curve configured to cooperate with the pivot portion allowing pivoting of the tray from a side opposite the bearing surface when the latch is released. The curve may include a convex portion configured to interface a corresponding concave portion of the pivot portion.
[015] The one or more latches can include a pawl configured to engage a pawl catch associated with the base and the bottom wall can be void of openings except for openings corresponding to the one or more latches.
[016] The removable tray can include one or more ejection points, the ejection points having one or more through holes in a bottom surface of the removable tray.
[017] The removable tray can have two latches and the bottom wall has two openings, each opening of the two openings associated with one of the two latches. The removable tray can include a plurality of repositories, each configured to contain a cosmetic product.
[018] The base can have four side walls, each affixed to the bottom wall, and configured to surround the removable tray when the latch is positioned within the corresponding opening. The side walls may be void of any openings.
[019] The removable tray further comprising a flanged portion. [020] The bottom wall and/or the removable tray can be rigid. The base and/or the removable tray can include an injection molded thermoplastic material. A cover configured to cover a top face of the removable tray may also be provided, which may include a reflective surface.
[021] The removable tray may include an applicator repository configured to store one or more applicators.
[022] The cosmetic product can be contained in a cup, the cup being configured to be inserted into the removable tray.
[023] According to some embodiments, a spring may be implemented between the removable tray and the base. The spring may be affixed to the tray, the base, or may be unaffixed.
[024] According to some embodiments, a design having projecting portions and/or portions in relief may be present within an interior portion of the base. The design may include any combination of graphics, alphanumeric characters, and special characters, among other things. Portions of the design may contact and provide support for the removable tray in some embodiments.
[025] According to some embodiments, a method for using a cosmetic packaging system as described above is provided. The method may include engaging the pivot portion with the bearing surface, pivoting the removable tray toward the base, and engaging the latch with the base.
[026] According to further embodiments a method for using a cosmetic packaging system as described above is provided. The method may include
disengaging the latch from the base via the bottom surface, pivoting the removable tray away from the base about the bearing surface, and removing the removable tray from the base.
[027] According to yet further embodiments, a cosmetic packaging system is provided. The cosmetic packaging system may include a base including a bottom wall and a bearing surface. The cosmetic packaging system may further include a removable tray containing a cosmetic product, the removable tray comprising one or more latches and a pivot portion configured to cooperate with the bearing surface, and a cover configured to cover the base and hinged to the base at a side opposite to the bearing surface.
[028] According to yet further embodiments, a cosmetic packaging system is provided. The cosmetic packaging system may include a base including a bottom wall and a bearing surface located on a side of the base, the bearing surface extending over half the width of the side. The cosmetic packaging system may further include a removable tray containing a cosmetic product, the removable tray including one or more latches, and a pivot portion configured to bear on the bearing surface to enable a pivoting of the removable tray. The latch, the bearing surface, and the pivot portion act to retain the removable tray within the base.
[029] According to yet further embodiments, a removable tray for cosmetic products is provided. The removable tray may include a top face having a peripheral flange presenting a bottom surface, a repository for containing the cosmetic products, a resilient latch extending at a first side from the bottom surface of the peripheral flange, and a pivot portion extending a second side opposite the first side from the bottom surface of the peripheral flange the pivot portion presenting an at least partially crescent shaped profile, the crescent shaped profile extending from the bottom surface of the peripheral flange.
[030] Additional objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows.
[031] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the present disclosure, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[032] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate a number of exemplary features of non-limiting embodiments of the disclosure and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. In the drawings,
[033] Figure 1 A is an exemplary cosmetic packaging configured to receive a removable tray, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[034] Figure 1B is an illustration of an exemplary bearing surface associated with an exemplary base, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[035] Figure 1C is an illustration of an exemplary latch opening and latch catch associated with an exemplary base, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[036] Figure 1D is an illustration of a portion of an exemplary base including a design located within an interior portion;
[037] Figure 2A is a top view illustration of an exemplary removable tray containing cosmetic products, according to embodiments of the present disclosure; [038] Figure 2B is a bottom view illustration of the exemplary removable tray of Figure 2A;
[039] Figure 2C is a profile illustration of an exemplary removable tray presenting a spring;
[040] Figure 3A is an illustration of an exemplary pivot portion associated with an exemplary removable tray, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[041] Figure 3B is an illustration of exemplary latches associated with an exemplary removable tray, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
Figure 3C is an illustration of an exemplary latch associated with an exemplary removable tray in relation to a cover and portions of a hinge system, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[042] Figure 4 is an illustration of exemplary base and removable tray separated from one another, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[043] Figure 5 is an illustration of exemplary base and removable tray
removably affixed to one another, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[044] Figure 6A is an illustration of an exemplary pivot portion of an exemplary removable tray engaged with an exemplary bearing surface of an exemplary base, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[045] Figure 6B is an illustration of an exemplary latch engaged with an exemplary latch catch, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[046] Figure 6C is a bottom-view illustration of the exemplary latch engaged with the exemplary latch catch of Figure 6B;
[047] Figure 6D is an illustration of an another exemplary latch engaged with an exemplary latch catch, including a step according to embodiments of the present disclosure;
[048] Figure 6E is a bottom-view illustration of the exemplary latch of Figure 6D with a latch pawl resting on the stepped portion;
[049] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of using embodiments of the present disclosure; and
[050] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating another exemplary method of using embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[051] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the present disclosure, as claimed.
[052] Figure 1 A is an exemplary cosmetic packaging 1 configured to receive a removable tray 7 (shown in Figures 2A and 2B), according to embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, a cover 15, may be operably affixed (e.g., pivotally) to a base 10, with base 10 comprising a bottom wall 37, side walls 39, and an interior portion 21 configured to receive removable tray 7, among other things.
[053] Packaging 1 may be configured to contain and package any type of cosmetic product and/or associated applicators, particularly those maintained within removable tray 7. For example, packaging 1 may be configured to contain one or more liquids, gels, powders, pressed powders, compacted cakes, and/or any combination thereof, among other things. Such cosmetic products may include, for example, care products and/or make-up products configured for application to a user's skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes, as desired.
[054] Base 10 may be fabricated from any suitable material, for example plastics, metals, paper products, and any desirable combination thereof, and may include one or more bearing surfaces 17 and portions of a hinge system 50. For example, in some embodiments, base 10 may comprise an injection molded plastic material (e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polystyrene, etc.) presenting a substantially rigid wall structure (e.g., rigid bottom wall 37 and side walls 39) and bearing surface 17. According to some embodiments, hinge system 50 may be located on a side S' of base 10 opposite to a side S presenting bearing surfaces 17.
[055] According to some embodiments, for example, as shown in Figure 1 D, a design 93, for example logos, pictures, graphics, alphanumeric characters, script, instructions, and/or part numbers (e.g., for refills) may be located, for example, as a raised portion and/or portion in relief within interior portion 21 of base 10. Portions of design 93 (e.g., raised portions) may be configured to contact removable tray 7 (e.g., at bottom surface 25), thereby enabling support of removable tray 7. Further, information may be communicated to a consumer via design 93, e.g., upon removal of removable tray 7. Portions of design 93 may be formed monolithically with base 10 (e.g., injection molded, extruded, etc.) and/or portions may be affixed within interior portion 21 following fabrication of base 10, for example, via adhesives or other suitable methods. [056] Fig. 1 B is an illustration of an exemplary bearing surface 17 associated with base 10, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Bearing surface 17 may be configured to interface with portions of removable tray 7 (e.g., pivot portions 11) to enable pivoting and retention of removable tray 7. Therefore, at least a portion of bearing surface 17 may present a concave or convex curve (e.g., a quarter circle) exposed toward interior portion 21 , or another suitable shape for enabling such interfacing. In some embodiments, bearing surface 17 may include a cavity 37 configured to enable insertion of a magnetic material (e.g., ferrous material, permanent magnet, etc.) or other suitable material within base 10 to act as a clasp with elements of cover 15, for example.
[057] Where bearing surface is configured as a concave or convex surface, a radius of curvature R associated with bearing surface 17 may be constant or may be varied as desired to enable a desired pivoting motion and removable retention of removable tray 7. For example, radius of curvature R may be substantially constant throughout the concave or convex curve of bearing surface 17, and may terminate near bottom wall 37 of base 10, thereby creating a channel between bearing surface 17 and bottom wall 37. In other embodiments, radius of curvature R may begin at a first value, the value subsequently decreasing as the curve approaches termination at the bottom wall 37 of base 10, for example, to create a hook effect between bearing surface 17 and pivot portion 1 1.
[058] According to some embodiments, bearing surface 17 may be located on a side S of base 10, side S being opposite to a side S' on which hinge system 50 is located. Further, bearing surface 17 may extend over half the width W of the side S on which it is located. For example, bearing surface 17 may be formed on an internal side portion of base 10 (e.g., toward interior portion 21) so as to remain substantially hidden following insertion of removable tray 7. Bearing surface 17 may extend up to 100 percent of the width W of the side, for example, thereby enabling interaction with additional and/or extended pivot portions 11.
[059] Bearing surface 17 may be integrally molded (i.e., monolithic) with base 10, or where desired, may be placed and secured following manufacture of base 10 (e.g., using adhesives and/or fasteners). Such a configuration may enable bearing surface 17 to comprise materials other than those used in preparation of base 10, and further, to replace bearing surface 17 when, and if desired.
[060] Figure 1 C is an illustration of an exemplary latch opening and latch catch 48 associated with an exemplary base 10, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. According to some embodiments, bottom wall 37 of base 10 may include only latch opening 47 (i.e., void of any other opening other than those corresponding to a latch 23), which may be configured to enable interaction with one or more latches 23 associated with removable tray 7 to retain and/or release removable tray 7 from base 10.
[061] Latch openings 47 may be configured to enable access to one or more latches 23 associated with removable tray 7 via bottom wall 37. For example, access to one or more latches 23 may be obtained via a user's finger or a tool, for example.
Therefore, latch openings 47 may extend from a top portion of bottom wall 37 to a bottom portion of bottom wall 38 (e.g., a through hole) and may present any suitable shape on bottom wall 37, which may enable one or more latches 23 to extend from removable tray 7 through bottom wall 37. According to some embodiments, it may be desirable to minimize visibility of latch openings 47, for example, by adjusting a shape of latch opening 47 based on a common viewing angle.
[062] In some embodiments, bottom wall 37 may be void of any openings, except for latch openings 47 corresponding to the one or more latches 23 associated with removable tray 7. For example, bottom wall 37 may be substantially smooth or may have a consistent texture over a substantial portion of its surface. Minimizing openings on bottom wall 37 may enable a consistent aesthetic to be maintained for packaging 1 , for example.
[063] Latch catch 48 may be configured to cooperate with portions of removable tray 7 to cause a retention of removable tray 7 within base 10. Therefore, latch catch 48 may include, for example, one or more recessed or protruding portions associated with a section of base 10, configured to cooperate with one or more protruding or recessed portions of latch 23 (e.g., pawl 58) and, according to some embodiments, such as that shown in Figures 6D and 6E, a step 94 configured to interact with pawl 58. Function of latches 23, latch catch 48, and step 94 will be described in greater detail below.
[064] Latch catch 48 may be formed in a portion of base 10 and/or portions of hinge system 50, and/or any suitable location associated with packaging 1. For example, portions of latch catch 48 may be formed in a wall associated with base 10 and/or on a hinge wing of hinge system 50 (e.g., where a hinge wing is formed integrally with base 10). According to some embodiments, latch catch 48 may be located near a wall S' opposite wall S where bearing surface 17 is located. Such a configuration may be helpful in causing a retention of removable tray 7 to base 10, and may also facilitate actuation of latch 23, and pivoting and removal of removable tray 7. [065] Cover 15, may be configured to cover and protect cosmetic products within packaging 1 (e.g., when closed) and may include a reflective surface (e.g., a mirror, an electronic screen, etc.). Further, cover 15 may be operably mounted to base 10 via hinge system 50, for example. The operable connection between cover 15 and base 10 may enable a pivoting of cover 15 about a first axis relative to base 10 and a rotation of cover 15 about a second axis relative to base 10, perpendicular to the first axis.
[066] While discussed herein primarily in the context of a rectangular shape, base 10, cover 15, and removable tray 7 may be fabricated in any desirable shape to provide a desired aesthetic quality. For example, when viewed perpendicularly and from a location above packaging 1 , cover 15, base 10, and tray 7 may have an outline shaped as a polygon, a circle, an oval, or a scallop. Further, it may be possible to combine one or more shapes in selecting a desired aesthetic (e.g., half rectangle half oval). Moreover, it may be possible to, for example, provide a base 10 having one shape, while removable tray 7 may have another, e.g., a round base 10 and cover 15 with a rectangular portion 21 within base 10 configured to receive removable tray 7. One of skill in the art will understand that any such configuration is intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
[067] Figure 2A is an illustration of a top face 20 of an exemplary removable tray 7 having a flanged portion 67 about its periphery, while Figure 2B is an illustration of bottom surface 25 and a bottom surface 68 of flanged portion 67 of the exemplary removable tray 7, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Removable tray 7 may be configured to be retained within base 10 and further to contain one or more cosmetic products P,, for example, within one or more repositories 14 present on top face 20 of removable tray 7. Therefore, removable tray 7 may include a top surface 20, a bottom surface 25, flanged portion 67, one or more repositories 14, one or more pivot portions 11 , and one or more latches 23.
[068] Flanged portion 67 may be present around a periphery of removable tray 7 as shown in Figures 2A and 2B and may present a bottom surface 68 configured to overhang and/or bear against a top surface of base 10 when removable tray 7 is inserted within base 10. Flange portion 67 may be formed from the same material as removable tray 7. In some embodiments, flanged portion 67 may not completely surround a periphery of tray 7, and may be present, for example, at only predetermined locations (e.g., one, two, or three sides of a rectangular removable tray 7). [069] Cosmetic products P, may initially be provided in individual containers (e.g., cups, tins, or any other desirable container) configured to be received within repositories 14 of removable tray 7. Or, where desired, cosmetic products P, may be placed directly into selected repositories 14, without the presence of any other container. Further each repository 14, and/or selected repositories 14, may include an ejection point 9, enabling ejection and removal of a cosmetic product present in the respective repository 14. Ejection points 9 may include a through hole, a button, a substantially flexible portion of bottom surface 25, or other suitable configuration. For example, a user may utilize an ejection point 9 associated with a repository 14 comprising a through hole, by inserting a tool through the hole to eject a cup of a colored cosmetic product located within repository 14. In some embodiments the user may then, as desired, replace the ejected cosmetic product with a more desirable cosmetic product (e.g., a different colored product).
[070] Any arrangement and/or configuration (e.g., shape, location, and type) of cosmetic products Pj of cosmetic products P, may be implemented within removable tray 7 as desired. For example, a series of repositories 14 including cosmetic products such as round, rectangular, and oval, and may include compacted cakes, powders, gels, and creams, etc. may be laid out within removable tray 7 in any desired arrangement.
Further, a user may be enabled to pick and choose which cosmetic products should go into which repositories 14 (e.g., by providing standardized cosmetic cups and repository shapes).
[071] Removable tray 7 may also be configured to retain or store one or more applicators, for example, at applicator repository 45. Similar to repositories 14, applicator repository 45 may be located, for example, on top surface 20 of removable tray 7, such that, upon opening of cover 15, a user may have access to applicator repository 45. Such applicators may be particularly selected for use with one or more provided cosmetic products Pj and may comprise, for example, a brush, a pad, a flocked element, etc. Alternatively, no applicators may be provided, and space allocated for applicator repository 45 may be dedicated to additional cosmetic products
[072] Removable tray 7 may be flexible, semi-flexible, rigid, or a combination thereof (e.g., by section, flexible bottom surface 25, rigid top face 20 and rigid pivot portion 1 1 , etc.) and may be fabricated from any suitable material, for example plastics, metals, paper products, or any desirable combination thereof. For example, in some embodiments, removable tray 7 may comprise an injection molded plastic material (e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polystyrene, etc.) presenting a substantially rigid structure. In another example, removable tray 7 may comprise a polymer presenting semi-rigid characteristics (e.g., polyaryl ether ether ketone (PEEK), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalenate (PEN), etc.)
[073] In some embodiments, such as that shown at Figure 2C, removable tray 7 may include a spring 92 associated with bottom surface 25, for example. Spring 92 may include a leaf spring, a coil spring, or any suitable type of spring. Further, spring 92 may be configured to be compressed upon insertion of removable tray 7 into base 10, thereby providing a force on removable tray 7 and base 10 while removable tray 7 is installed. Such a force may operate to cause at least a partial pivoting of removable tray 7 away from base 10 upon disengagement of latch 23, e.g., to expose surfaces of flange portion 67 and enable gripping of removable tray 7. Spring 92 may alternatively be associated with a inside portion 21 of base 10, for example, positioned near a latch opening 47. In addition, more than one spring 92 (e.g., two, three, etc.) may be implemented as desired.
[074] Figure 3A is an illustration of an exemplary pivot portion 11 associated with removable tray 7, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Pivot portion 11 may Pivot portion 11 may be configured to cooperate with bearing surface 17 to enable pivoting and retention of removable tray 7 relative to base 10. Therefore, pivot portion 11 may extend from bottom surface 68 of flanged portion 67, or other suitable location (e.g., a bottom surface of top face 20). Pivot portion 11 may, for example, extend in a direction toward bottom surface 25 and may be positioned at one end of removable tray 7 (e.g., opposite to one or more latches 23). Additionally, one or more pivot portions 11 may be provided extending from, for example, bottom surface 68 along a width of side S as desired.
[075] Further, pivot portion 11 may comprise a curved surface 41 (e.g., convex or concave toward bearing surface 17) configured to engage bearing surface 17. In other words, where bearing surface 17 has a curve 42 that is configured as a convex surface toward interior portion 21 , pivot portion 11 is configured with a curved surface 41 being concave. Where bearing surface 17 has a curve 42 that is configured as a concave surface, pivot portion 11 is configured with a curved surface 41 being convex. In some embodiments, pivot portion 11 may present a profile with at least a portion shaped like a crescent. For purposes of the present disclosure, the term "crescent" means a shape produced when a circular disk has a segment of another circle removed from its edge, such that the remaining shape appears as two circular arcs of different diameters which intersect at at least one point. Particularly, a crescent is not a half, semi, or quarter circle, nor is it a circle segment (i.e., a region bounded by a chord and an arc lying between the chord's endpoints). As shown in Figure 4, curved surface 41 may be concave toward bearing surface 17. Further, depending on a length and a radius of curvature associated with pivot portion 11 , portions of pivot portion (e.g., a tip) may extend beyond a periphery of top surface 20 and/or beyond a periphery of flanged portion 67. Particularly, portions of pivot portion 11 (e.g., a tip) may extend ahead of a front edge of flanged portion 67.
[076] According to some embodiments, a radius of curvature associated with pivot portion 11 may be such that, upon engaging pivot portion 11 with bearing surface 17 and pivoting removable tray 7 into base 10, bearing surface 17 and pivot portion 11 may cooperate to cause retention of removable tray 7 within base 10, particularly at side S. Thus, once rotated into place (e.g., as shown at Figure 5) and based on radii of curvature associated with bearing surface 17 and pivot portion 11 , it may be possible to cause a retention of pivot portion 11 where no counter pivoting about bearing surface occurs (e.g., when latch 23 is engaged).
[077] Pivot portion 11 may be formed integrally with walls associated with removable tray 7. According to some embodiments, pivot portion 11 may comprise tabs also called wings, formed with and extending from any suitable location of removable tray 7 (e.g., bottom surface 68 of flanged portion 67, bottom surface 25, etc.), with such wings being spaced from walls of repository 14. Alternatively pivot portion 11 may be associated with one or more structures that may be affixed to removable tray 7 following fabrication (e.g., pivot tabs affixed via adhesives and/or fasteners as desired).
[078] Pivot portion 11 and its supporting structure (e.g., walls of removable tray 7) may comprise rigid, semi-rigid, and/or flexible materials to result in a desired rigidity of pivot portion 11 , for example to result in desired pivoting and retention characteristics. For example, where pivot portion 11 is formed integrally with removable tray 7, pivot portion 11 may comprise the same materials as those associated with removable tray 7.
[079] Figures 3B and 3C are illustrations of an exemplary latch 23, one or more of which may be associated with removable tray 7, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Latch 23 may be positioned on a side of removable tray 7 (e.g., side S' near hinge system 50) and may extend away from a surface associated with removable tray 7 (e.g., bottom surface 68 of flanged portion 67). Latch 23 may be spaced away from repository 14 and may be configured to engage latch catch 48 following insertion of latch 23 through latch openings 47. Therefore, latch 43 may comprise an elongate section 57 configured to protrude within latch openings 47, and one or more protruding or recessed portions corresponding to latch catch 48. In other words, where latch catch 48 comprises a recessed section, latch 23 may comprise a corresponding protruding section. Likewise, where latch catch 48 comprises a
protruding section, latch 23 may comprise a recessed section.
[080] Elongate section 57 may be molded from or otherwise affixed to a bottom surface 68 of flanged portion 67, for example, and may be resiliently flexible, such that upon application and removal of a displacing force, elongate section 57 may
substantially return to its position prior to application of the displacing force. Further, elongate section 57 may possess a desired rigidity, such that during engagement with latch catch 48, latch 23 may remain in a locked position (i.e., engaged with latch catch 48), for example, to prevent inadvertent release of removable tray 7 (e.g., during transit).
[081] According to some embodiments, for example as shown in Figure 6B, a latch pawl 58 may be formed integrally with elongate section 57 or otherwise affixed thereon. Latch pawl 58 may be tapered along one side, e.g., relative to elongate section 57, while being substantially perpendicular to elongate section 57 on a second side. Latch pawl 58 may therefore be configured for sliding in a first direction through latch opening 47 based on the tapered side, while sliding in a direction opposite the first direction may be impeded or prevented by engagement of the perpendicular side within, for example, latch catch 48, similar to a snap fastening arrangement.
[082] Figures 4 and 5 are illustrations of base 10 and removable tray 7 in a separated and engaged position, respectively, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Further, Figures 6A-C highlight various portions of packaging 1 following engagement of removable tray 7 within base 10. These Figures will be discussed in greater detail with regard to Figures 7 and 8.
[083] Figure 7 is a flowchart 700 illustrating an exemplary method for engaging removable tray 7 within base 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In such a method, removable tray 7 is assumed to have been loaded with one or more cosmetic products. For example, a user may eject undesired cosmetic products from removable tray 7 (e.g., via ejection points 9), and replace said products with desired cosmetic products (e.g., in repositories 14). The removable tray 7 may then be prepared for insertion into base 10.
[084] Pivot portion 1 1 may be engaged with bearing surface 17 (step 705). For example, removable tray 7 may initially be aligned as shown at Figure 4, and a user may then cause pivot portion 11 to contact bearing surface 17, while maintaining a desired angle between base 10 and removable tray 7 (e.g., between 10 and 60 degrees).
[085] Once pivot portion 11 and bearing surface 17 have been engaged, removable tray 7 may be pivoted toward base 10 (step 707). For example, a user may, while maintaining engagement of pivot portion 11 and bearing surface 17, pivot an end of removable tray 7 opposite to pivot portion 11 toward base 10, thereby closing the angle described with regard to step 705, and when present, compressing spring 92. This pivoting may be performed such that each of one or more latches 23 is brought within its corresponding latch opening 47. According to some embodiments, a spring 92 may extend, for example, from a surface (e.g., bottom surface 25) of removable tray 7, and/or from base 10 within interior portion 21. During pivoting of removable tray 7 toward base 10, such a spring may be compressed, tending to generate a pressing force against removable tray 7 away from base 10.
[086] Following insertion of each of the one or more latches 23 through a respective latch opening 47, each of the one or more latches 23 may be engaged (e.g., snap fastened) with a corresponding latch catch 48 (step 710). For example, during insertion of a latch 23 through a latch opening 47, a tapered side of latch pawl 58 may contact an inner surface associated with latch opening 47, thereby causing elongate section 57 to deflect away from the inner surface of latch opening 47. Once latch pawl 58 reaches a potion within latch opening 47 allowing engagement with latch catch 48, elongate section 57 may resiliently return to its previous location, thereby causing engagement of latch pawl 58 within latch catch 48. A portion of elongate section 57 extending, for example, below latch pawl 58, may then be accessible via latch opening 47 at bottom wall 37.
[087] Figure 6A is an illustration pivot portion 11 engaged with bearing surface
17 following such a pivoting and latching as described with regard to Figure 7. Further, Figure 6B is an illustration of latch 23 having a latch pawl 58 engaged with latch catch 48. Figure 6C is a bottom-view illustration of a portion 59 of elongate section 57 of latch 23 extending through latch opening 47 to be accessible from bottom wall 37, e.g., as a release button.
[088] Figure 8 is a flowchart 800 illustrating another exemplary method of operating embodiments of the present disclosure, for example to remove removable tray 7 from base 10. Such a method may be implemented, for example, where a user desires to replace removable tray 7 and/or a cosmetic product P, with another configuration. Therefore, a user may first disengage one or more latches 23 via bottom wall 37 (step 805). For example, a user may insert a tool or digit (e.g., thumb, forefinger, etc.) within a portion of latch opening 47 on bottom wall 37 to exert a force (e.g., a displacing force) on portion 59 of elongate section 57 extending within latch opening 47. In some embodiments, for example, where two latches 23 are present, a user may actuate the two latches 23 substantially simultaneously as desired, using a thumb on each hand. By exerting such a force, elongate section 57 may deflect away from latch catch 48, thereby enabling latch pawl 58 to disengage from latch catch 48. According to some embodiments, based on the force applied, latch 23 may be driven slightly upward away from base 10, enabling removable tray 7 to be gripped by flanged portion 67.
According to some embodiments, where spring 92 is provided between base 10 and removable tray 7, force associated with the spring may assist in pivoting removable tray away from base 10.
[089] Further, according to some embodiments where step 94 is provided, following disengagement of latch 23, latch pawl 58 and or portion 59 may come to rest in a position on step 94. Such a configuration may facilitate removal of the tray by, for example, reducing and/or eliminating interference with base 10 during removal operations.
[090] A user may then pivot removable tray 7 away from base 10 (step 807). For example, a user may take hold of flanged portion 67 and exert a force (e.g., a pulling force) to cause removable tray 7 to pivot about pivot portion 11 and bearing surface 17. Upon reaching a desired angle, the user may disengage pivot portion 11 from bearing surface 17 (step 810) and remove the tray from base 10 (step 815).
[091] Following such action, a user may utilize, for example, ejection points 9 to eject various cosmetic products P, and replace with other desired cosmetic products. Alternatively, a user may replace removable tray 7 with a different removable tray 7 containing a different color palette, for example.
[092] Throughout the description, including the claims, the term "comprising a" should be understood as being synonymous with "comprising at least one" unless otherwise stated. In addition, any range set forth in the description, including the claims should be understood as including its end value(s) unless otherwise stated. Specific measurement values for described elements should be understood to be within generally accepted manufacturing or industry tolerances, and any use of the terms substantially and/or approximately should be understood to mean falling within such generally accepted tolerances. [093] Although the present disclosure herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present disclosure. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative
embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
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