Patent Publication Number: US-11643265-B1

Title: Corrugated offset corner elements

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/964,439, filed Apr. 27, 2018, and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/667,161 filed Oct. 18, 2018, the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/593,144 filed Feb. 6, 2017, and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/593,147, filed Feb. 6, 2017, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein in their entireties by reference. 
    
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     Not Applicable. 
     REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX 
     Not Applicable. 
     NOTICE OF COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL 
     The disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. Unless otherwise noted, all trademarks and service marks identified herein are owned by the applicant. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present disclosure relates generally to the field of packaging assemblies. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a corrugated corner element. 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     It is generally known to use various packaging assemblies to package products for storage or shipping. Typically, packaging assemblies are constructed so as to stabilize the contained item or items and provide a certain degree of cushioning against breakage, while being moved or transported. 
     Depending on the size, shape, and/or weight of the contained item or items, packaging assemblies may be placed atop one another or pallets for storage, shipping, or transportation. 
     Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles, or the like, which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     However, typical packaging assemblies and assembly components have various shortcomings. Among other things, known packaging assemblies and/or assembly components are cumbersome and have shapes that are not conducive to being packaged for shipment prior to assembly. Thus, shipping certain of the assembly components can be inefficient. 
     Among other things, the corrugated corner elements and/or corrugated offset corner elements of the present disclosure include at least one score mark formed extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the corrugated corner element. The score mark provides a line or portion along which the corrugated corner element may be bent or folded. By bending or folding the corrugated corner element along the score mark, a portion of the corrugated corner element can be urged from the formed or folded position to a more flattened position. By providing the corrugated corner elements in a more flattened position, the amount of space occupied by each corrugated corner element can be reduced and a greater number of corrugated corner elements can be packaged within a given shipment package. 
     In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the corrugated offset corner elements of the present disclosure include at least some of a portion of material extending continuously, substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis, from a first terminal end to a second terminal end, wherein the portion of material extends continuously, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, from a first corner element end to a second corner element end; a vertex extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, wherein the vertex is defined closer to the first corner element end than the second corner element end; a first corner element leg, extending laterally from the vertex, the first corner element leg having one or more alternating ridges and grooves, each of the alternating ridges and grooves of the first corner element leg extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the corrugated offset corner element; a second corner element leg, extending laterally from the vertex and away from the first corner element leg, the second corner element leg having one or more alternating ridges and grooves, each of the alternating ridges and grooves of the second corner element leg extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the corrugated offset corner element; and a score mark formed in the portion of material, extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, wherein the score mark provides a line or portion along which the corrugated offset corner element may be bent or folded such that the corrugated offset corner element may be more easily manipulated to a more flattened position. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the portion of material is a sheet material. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, a length of the first corner element leg is less than a length of the second corner element leg. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the score mark is formed along at least a portion of the vertex. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, an outer wall of the corrugated offset corner element is substantially coextensive with an inner wall of the corrugated offset corner element. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, each of the alternating ridges and grooves of the first corner element leg are alternating ridges and grooves, extending substantially parallel to the vertex. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, each of the alternating ridges and grooves of the second corner element leg are alternating ridges and grooves, extending substantially parallel to the vertex. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the first corner element leg and the second corner element leg are each curvilinear along a respective length. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, an inner wall of the first corner element leg and an inner wall of the second corner element leg comprises a sinusoidal succession of waves or curves. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the score mark is formed colinear with at least a portion of the vertex. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the score mark is formed of a complete or partial recess or depression in the portion of material. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the score mark is formed of a complete or partial perforation in the portion of material. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the score mark forms a weakened portion of the portion of material. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the score mark is formed of a compressed area of the portion of material. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the score mark is formed in a portion of an outer wall or exterior surface of the portion of material. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the portion of material comprises a single layer of material. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the portion of material comprises a multi-layer portion of material. 
     In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the corrugated offset corner elements of the present disclosure include at least some of a portion of material extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis, from a first terminal end to a second terminal end, wherein the portion of material extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, from a first corner element end to a second corner element end; a first corner element leg having one or more alternating ridges and grooves, each of the alternating ridges and grooves of the first corner element leg extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the corrugated offset corner element; a second corner element leg, extending from the first corner element leg, the second corner element leg having one or more alternating ridges and grooves, each of the alternating ridges and grooves of the second corner element leg extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the corrugated offset corner element, wherein a length of the second corner element leg is greater than a length of the first corner element leg; and a score mark formed in the portion of material, wherein the score mark is formed between the first corner element leg and the second corner element leg, and wherein the score mark provides a line or portion along which the corrugated offset corner element may be bent or folded. 
     In various other exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the score mark provides a line or portion along which the corrugated offset corner element may be more easily manipulated to a more flattened position. 
     In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the corrugated offset corner elements of the present disclosure include at least some of a portion of material extending from a first terminal end to a second terminal end and from a first corner element end to a second corner element end; a vertex extending from the first terminal end to the second terminal end; a first corner element leg having one or more alternating ridges and grooves, each of the alternating ridges and grooves of the first corner element leg extending substantially parallel to the vertex; a second corner element leg, extending from the first corner element leg, the second corner element leg having one or more alternating ridges and grooves, each of the alternating ridges and grooves of the second corner element leg extending substantially parallel to the vertex, wherein a length of the second corner element leg is greater than a length of the first corner element leg; and a score mark formed in the portion of material, extending from an area proximate the first terminal end to an area proximate the second terminal end, wherein the score mark is formed colinear with at least a portion of the vertex, and wherein the score mark provides a line or portion along which the corrugated offset corner element may be bent or folded. 
     Accordingly, the present disclosure provides corrugated offset corner elements that can be easily stored in a relatively compact configuration, awaiting assembly and use. 
     The present disclosure separately provides corrugated offset corner elements that can be easily assembled or constructed, when needed. 
     The present disclosure separately provides corrugated offset corner elements that provides lower costs for handling and storage. 
     The present disclosure separately provides corrugated offset corner elements with a high degree of compressional strength. 
     These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure are described in or are apparent from the following detailed description of the exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure and the accompanying figures. Other aspects and features of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the following description of specific, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure in concert with the figures. While features of the present disclosure may be discussed relative to certain embodiments and figures, all embodiments of the present disclosure can include one or more of the features discussed herein. 
     Further, while one or more embodiments may be discussed as having certain advantageous features, one or more of such features may also be used with the various embodiments of the systems, methods, and/or apparatuses discussed herein. In similar fashion, while exemplary embodiments may be discussed below as device, system, or method embodiments, it is to be understood that such exemplary embodiments can be implemented in various devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure. 
     Any benefits, advantages, or solutions to problems that are described herein with regard to specific embodiments are not intended to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature(s) or element(s) of the present disclosure or the claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       As required, detailed exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein. However, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms, within the scope of the present disclosure. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized to illustrate details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present disclosure. 
       The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, and wherein: 
         FIG.  1    illustrates a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated corner element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  2    illustrates a rear perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated corner element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  3    illustrates a right side view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated corner element, according to the present disclosure, the left side view of the exemplary embodiment of the corrugated corner element is a mirror image of the right side view; 
         FIG.  4    illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated corner element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated corner element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  6    illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated corner element, wherein the corrugated corner element is in a folded position, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  7    illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated corner element, wherein the corrugated corner element is in a more flattened position, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  8    illustrates a front, exploded, assembly view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  9    illustrates a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  10    illustrates a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  11    illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  12    illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  13    illustrates a bottom view of exemplary embodiments of corrugated corner elements aligned with an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  14    illustrates a bottom view of exemplary embodiments of corrugated corner elements assembled with an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  15    illustrates a front view of exemplary embodiments of corrugated corner elements assembled with exemplary embodiments of tray or endcap elements, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  16    illustrates a side view of exemplary embodiments of corrugated corner elements assembled with exemplary embodiments of tray or endcap elements, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  17    illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated offset corner element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  18    illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated offset corner element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  19    illustrates a right side view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated offset corner element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  20    illustrates a left side view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated offset corner element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  21    illustrates a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated offset corner element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  22    illustrates a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated offset corner element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  23    illustrates a front, exploded, assembly view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  24    illustrates a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  25    illustrates a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  26    illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  27    illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  28    illustrates a bottom view of exemplary embodiments of corrugated offset corner elements aligned with an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  29    illustrates a bottom view of exemplary embodiments of corrugated offset corner elements assembled with an exemplary embodiment of a tray or endcap element, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  30    illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated offset corner element, according to the present disclosure; and 
         FIG.  31    illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a corrugated offset corner element, according to the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION 
     For simplicity and clarification, the design factors and operating principles of the corrugated offset corner elements are explained with reference to various exemplary embodiments of corrugated offset corner elements according to the present disclosure. The basic explanation of the design factors and operating principles of the corrugated offset corner elements is applicable for the understanding, design, and operation of the corrugated offset corner elements of the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that the corrugated offset corner elements can be adapted to many applications where a packaging assembly can be used. 
     As used herein, the word “may” is meant to convey a permissive sense (i.e., meaning “having the potential to”), rather than a mandatory sense (i.e., meaning “must”). Unless stated otherwise, terms such as “first” and “second” are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the exemplary embodiments and/or elements such terms describe. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other prioritization of such exemplary embodiments and/or elements. 
     The term “coupled”, as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more unless stated otherwise. 
     Throughout this application, the terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), “include”, (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”) are used as open-ended linking verbs. It will be understood that these terms are meant to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer, step, or group of elements, integers, or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer, step, or group of elements, integers, or steps. As a result, a system, method, or apparatus that “comprises”, “has”, “includes”, or “contains” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Similarly, a method or process that “comprises”, “has”, “includes” or “contains” one or more operations possesses those one or more operations but is not limited to possessing only those one or more operations. 
     It should also be appreciated that the terms “packaging assembly”, “corrugated corner element”, “corrugated offset corner element”, and “scored corrugated corner element” are used for basic explanation and understanding of the operation of the systems, methods, and apparatuses of the present disclosure. Therefore, the terms “packaging assembly”, “corrugated corner element”, “corrugated offset corner element”, and “scored corrugated corner element” are not to be construed as limiting the systems, methods, and apparatuses of the present disclosure. 
     Turning now to the appended drawing figures,  FIGS.  1 - 16    illustrate certain elements and/or aspects of exemplary embodiments of corrugated corner elements  100  that may optionally be used in conjunction with tray or endcap elements  200  to form a packaging assembly  300 , according to the present disclosure.  FIGS.  17 - 31    illustrate certain elements and/or aspects of exemplary embodiments of corrugated offset corner elements  500  that may optionally be used in conjunction with tray or endcap elements  600  to form a packaging assembly  300 , according to the present disclosure. 
     In illustrative, non-limiting embodiment(s) of the present disclosure, as illustrated in  FIGS.  1 - 16   , the packaging assembly  300  comprises a plurality of corrugated corner elements  100  and typically two tray or endcap elements  200 . 
     As illustrated most clearly in  FIGS.  1 - 7   , each corrugated corner element  100  comprises an elongate portion of material or a sheet  105  that extends, extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis, A L , from a first terminal end  101  to a second terminal end  102 . In various exemplary embodiments, the corrugated corner element  100  extends continuously, in an uninterrupted manner, from the first terminal end  101  to the second terminal end  102 . Alternatively, one or more notches, recesses, or depressions may optionally be formed in one or more areas, along the corrugated corner element  100 , between the first terminal end  101  and the second terminal end  102 . 
     The portion of material or sheet  105  also extends continuously, extending substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis, A L , from a first corner element end  128  to a second corner element end  129 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, each corrugated corner element  100  is formed of a portion of material or a sheet  105 . In certain exemplary embodiments, the material used to form the sheet  105  comprises a single layer of material. Alternatively, the material used to form sheet  105  comprises multiple layers of similar or dissimilar materials joined or adhesively bonded together to form the sheet  105 . Thus, it should be appreciated that the sheet  105  may comprise a single layer of material or may be a multi-layer sheet  105  formed of a laminate of a plurality of layers of material attached or coupled by an adhesive or other means. 
     The sheet  105  may also be formed of paperboard, chipboard, container board, box board, cardboard, or corrugated fiberboard. 
     A vertex  122  is defined along the corrugated corner elements  100 . The vertex  122  generally extends, extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, A L , from the first terminal end  101  to the second terminal end  102 . The vertex  122  defines a line from which the first corner element leg  110  and the second corner element leg  112  extend. In certain exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the vertex  122  bisects the corrugated corner elements  100 , extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, A L , proximate a center of each of the corrugated corner elements  100 . Generally, the vertex  122  defines the furthest extent of the first corner element end  128  and the second corner element end  129 , when the corrugated corner elements  100  is in the folded position. 
     The first corner element leg  110  extends continuously, laterally from the vertex  122  to a first corner element end  128 , while the second corner element leg  112  extends laterally from the vertex  122  to a second corner element end  129 . The second corner element end  129  extends laterally from the vertex  122 , in a direction that is generally away from the direction that the first corner element end  128  extends laterally from the vertex  122 . 
     In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, substantially straight lines from the vertex  122  to the respective first corner element end  128  and from the vertex  122  to the second corner element end  129  are at approximately 90° relative to one another, when the corrugated corner elements  100  is in the folded position. 
     Typically, when viewed from the top or the bottom, as illustrated in  FIGS.  4  and  5   , respectively, the first corner element leg  110  includes one or more alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124 , formed along its length. Likewise, the second corner element leg  112  includes one or more alternating ridges  126  and/or grooves  124 , along its length. Each of the alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124  of the first corner element leg  110  extends, extending substantially parallel to or extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, A L , of the corrugated corner elements  100 . In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, each of the alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124  are extending substantially parallel and alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124 . 
     By including the alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124 , the first corner element leg  110  and the second corner element leg  112  is curvilinear along its respective length, from the vertex  122  to the respective first corner element end  128  and from the vertex  122  to the second corner element end  129 . The alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124  may be formed such that the first corner element leg  110  and the second corner element leg  112  each comprise a sinusoidal succession of waves or curves, along the respective lengths, from the vertex  122  to the respective first corner element end  128  and from the vertex  122  to the second corner element end  129 . 
     As illustrated, a transverse cross-section of the second corner element leg  112  forms a mirror image of a transverse cross-section of the first corner element legs  110 . However, it should be appreciated that it is not necessary for the transverse cross-section of the second corner element leg  112  to form a mirror image of a transverse cross-section of the first corner element legs  110 . Thus, a transverse cross-section of the second corner element leg  112  may have alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124  that are not mirror images of the alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124  of a transverse cross-section of the first corner element legs  110 . 
     An outer wall  120  forms an exterior surface of the corrugated corner element  100 , while an inner wall  130  forms and interior surface of the corrugated corner element  100 . As used herein, the terms “outer”, “exterior”, “inner”, and “interior” are used for reference only and are not to be viewed as limiting the present disclosure. In certain exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the outer wall  120  of the corrugated corner element  100  is substantially coextensive with the inner wall  130  of the corrugated corner element  100 . 
     Because of the inclusion of the alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124 , the corrugated corner element  100  is even better able to resist top to bottom compression, extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, A L , of the corrugated corner elements  100 . Additionally, the inclusion of the alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124  help each of the first corner element leg  110  and second corner element leg  112  to better resist crushing, when forces are applied to the outer wall  120  and/or the inner wall  130 . 
     At least the vertex  122  and possibly the alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124  allow for a degree of inward flexion and resilient recovery toward the original shape of the first corner element leg  110  relative to the second corner element leg  112 , as illustrated by the semicircular arrows in  FIG.  4   . 
     The structure or grain of the corrugated corner element  100  or the sheet  105  may make it difficult to create an even bend or fold along a portion of the corrugated corner element  100  or the sheet  105 . Providing a score mark  127  allows the material of the corrugated corner element  100  or the sheet  105  to form or more easily form a bend or fold or more easily form an even or consistent bend or fold. 
     In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, a score mark  127 , formed of a complete or partial recess or depression in the portion of material or sheet  105  or formed of a complete or partial perforation formed in the portion of material or sheet  105  extending substantially parallel to or extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, A L , of the corrugated corner element  100 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the score mark  127  may be formed of a compressed area of the corrugated corner element  100 , without creating a cut. Alternatively, the score mark  127  may be formed of a partial cut through the portion of material or sheet  105 . 
     In certain exemplary embodiments, the score mark  127  is formed in a portion of the outer wall  120  or exterior surface of the corrugated corner element  100 . Alternatively, the score mark  127  may optionally be formed in a portion of the inner wall  130  or interior surface of the corrugated corner element  100 . 
     In certain exemplary embodiments, the score mark  127  extends from the first terminal end  101  to the second terminal end  102 . Alternatively, the score mark  127  may extend from an area proximate the first terminal end  101  to an area proximate the second terminal end  102 . 
     The score mark  127  provides a line or portion along which the corrugated corner element  100  may be comparatively more easily bent or folded, whether along the grain or against the grain of the corrugated corner element  100  or the sheet  105 . Thus, the score mark  127  may optionally provide a compressed or weakened area or portion of the corrugated corner element  100 , along which the corrugated corner element  100  may be comparatively more easily bent or folded. 
     By bending or folding the corrugated corner element  100  along the score mark  127 , as illustrated by the semicircular arrows in  FIG.  6   , a portion of the corrugated corner element  100  can be more easily manipulated to the more flattened position, as illustrated in  FIG.  7   . In certain embodiments, a plurality of score marks  127  may be formed at spaced apart locations extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, A L , of the corrugated corner element  100 . 
     By optionally positioning the score mark  127  proximate the vertex  122 , a single fold of the corrugated corner element  100  can allow the corrugated corner element  100  to be manipulated to a more flattened position. Once in the more flattened position, corrugated corner elements  100  can be positioned atop one another and alternating ridges  126  of a first corrugated corner element  100  can be “nested” within at least a portion of certain alternating grooves  124  of a second corrugated corner element  100 . Thus, the area required for each corrugated corner element is altered, to allow more corrugated corner elements  100  to be more densely packaged in a particular packaging container. 
     In certain exemplary embodiments, as illustrated most clearly in  FIGS.  1 - 7   , the score mark  127  may optionally be formed proximate a center of the corrugated corner element  100 , as defined between the first corner element end  128  and the second corner element end  129 . Alternatively, the score mark  127  may optionally be formed in an area other than the proximate center of the corrugated corner element  100 , more proximate the first corner element end  128  or the second corner element end  129 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the corrugated corner element  100  is substantially rigid and is formed of cardboard. Alternate materials of construction of the corrugated corner element  100  may include one or more of the following: thick paper (of various types), pasteboard, paperboard, container board, corrugated fiberboard, box board, or chipboard. In still other exemplary embodiments, alternate materials of construction of the corrugated corner element  100  may include one or more the following: wood, steel, stainless steel aluminum, polytetrafluoroethylene, and/or other metals, as well as various alloys and composites thereof, glass-hardened polymers, polymeric composites, polymer or fiber reinforced metals, carbon fiber or glass fiber composites, continuous fibers in combination with thermoset and thermoplastic resins, chopped glass or carbon fibers used for injection molding compounds, laminate glass or carbon fiber, epoxy laminates, woven glass fiber laminates, impregnate fibers, polyester resins, epoxy resins, phenolic resins, polyimide resins, cyanate resins, high-strength plastics, nylon, glass, or polymer fiber reinforced plastics, thermoform and/or thermoset materials, and/or various combinations of the foregoing. Thus, it should be understood that the material used to form the corrugated corner element  100  is a design choice based on the desired appearance and functionality of the corrugated corner element  100  and/or the packaging assembly  300 . 
     The corrugated corner element  100  may be constructed having an any desired overall size or shape. It should also be understood that the overall size and shape of the corrugated corner element  100 , and the various portions thereof, is a design choice based upon the desired functionality, compatibility with desired articles or products and/or appearance of the corrugated corner element  100 . 
     Thus, it should be appreciated that the overall length, width, and/or height of the first corner element leg  110  and the second corner element leg  112  is a design choice, based upon the desired degree of packaging or cushioning provided by the corrugated corner element  100  and/or the size and shape of the packaged article or product  400  with which the corrugated corner element  100  is to be utilized. 
     In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, at least a portion of the outer wall  120  and/or the inner wall  130  may be textured or may include an adhesive portion to provide a surface or area having a desired degree of friction or adhesive bonding relative to a product or product packaging. Thus, at least a portion of the corrugated corner element  100  may be formed so as to resist movement of the corrugated corner element  100  relative to a surface. 
     As illustrated most clearly in  FIGS.  8 - 12   , each endcap element  200  generally comprises at least one partial tray layer  210  and/or full tray layer  220  attached or coupled to at least one support layer  230 . Each partial tray layer  210  includes an elongate portion of material having a top surface  211  and a bottom surface  212 . Each full tray layer  220  includes an elongate portion of material having a top surface  221  and a bottom surface  222 . Each support tray layer  230  includes an elongate portion of material having a top surface  231  and a bottom surface  232 . However, it should be appreciated that each endcap element  200  may be formed or built up utilizing any number and/or combination of partial tray layers  210 , full tray layers  220 , and/or support layers  230 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, adjacent surfaces of the partial tray layer  210 , full tray layer  220 , and/or support layer  230  may optionally be bonded together, such as, by adhesives, forming adhesive layers  280 . Alternatively, portions of the partial tray layer  210 , full tray layer  220 , and/or support layer  230  may optionally be attached, coupled, fastened, or secured to one another, mechanically (i.e., via nails, screws, rivets, pins, or other fasteners) or as otherwise known in the art. 
     In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, each full tray layer  220  extends to four corners. However, it should be understood that the number of corners of the full tray layer  220  is a design choice, dictated primarily by an upper or lower footprint of an article or product  400  that is to be contained or packaged within the packaging assembly  300 . 
     It should also be appreciated that certain indents, recesses, or depressions may be formed in at least portions of the partial tray layer  210 , the full tray layer  220 , and/or the support layer  230  to accommodate and/or further secure a packaged article or product  400  within the packaging assembly  300 . 
     A corner recess  225  is formed in a portion of the at least one partial tray layer  210  and/or the at least one support layer  230 . Each corner recess  225  is formed proximate each corner of the at least one partial tray layer  210  and/or full tray layer  220 . In this manner, when the partial tray layer  210 , the full tray layer  220  and/or the support layer  230  are attached or coupled to form the endcap element  200 , corner portions of at least the partial tray layer  210  extend beyond the corner recesses  225  formed in the partial tray layers  210  and/or the support layers  230 . 
     Each corner recess  225  is formed so as to mateingly engage at least a portion of the first terminal end  101  or the second terminal end  102  of one of the corrugated corner elements  100  at least partially therein. Each corner recess  225  forms a extending substantially parallel curve, mating, or matingly offset curve of the inner wall  130  of at least a first terminal end  101  or a second terminal end  102  of each of the corrugated corner elements  100  to form a mating surface for the inner wall  130  of at least a first terminal end  101  or a second terminal end  102  of each of the corrugated corner elements  100 . Generally, each corner recess  225  is formed so as to substantially abut the inner wall  130  of at least a first terminal end  101  or a second terminal end  102  of each of the corrugated corner elements  100 . Thus, each corner recess  225  includes one or more concave scallop(s) or alternating ridges and grooves cut out of the ends that allows a corrugated corner element  100  to be located planarly by interlocking with the sinusoidal or other interior shape of the accompanying corrugated corner element  100 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, one or more of the partial tray layer  210 , the full tray layer  220  and/or the support layer  230  is substantially rigid and is formed of cardboard. Alternate materials of construction of the partial tray layer  210 , the full tray layer  220  and/or the support layer  230  may include one or more of the following: thick paper (of various types), pasteboard, paperboard, container board, corrugated fiberboard, box board, or chipboard. In still other exemplary embodiments, alternate materials of construction of the partial tray layer  210 , the full tray layer  220  and/or the support layer  230  may include one or more the following: wood, steel, stainless steel aluminum, polytetrafluoroethylene, and/or other metals, as well as various alloys and composites thereof, glass-hardened polymers, polymeric composites, polymer or fiber reinforced metals, carbon fiber or glass fiber composites, continuous fibers in combination with thermoset and thermoplastic resins, chopped glass or carbon fibers used for injection molding compounds, laminate glass or carbon fiber, epoxy laminates, woven glass fiber laminates, impregnate fibers, polyester resins, epoxy resins, phenolic resins, polyimide resins, cyanate resins, high-strength plastics, nylon, glass, or polymer fiber reinforced plastics, thermoform and/or thermoset materials, and/or various combinations of the foregoing. Thus, it should be understood that the material used to form the partial tray layer  210 , the full tray layer  220  and/or the support layer  230  is a design choice based on the desired appearance and functionality of the partial tray layer  210 , the full tray layer  220  and/or the support layer  230  and/or the packaging assembly  300 . 
       FIGS.  13 - 16    illustrate the basic assembly of the packaging assembly  300 . As illustrated most clearly in  FIGS.  13 - 16   , a first tray or endcap element  200  is positioned generally below an article or product  400 . A second tray or endcap element  200  is positioned generally atop the article or product  400 . 
     In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the tray or endcap elements  200  may be constructed having an International Organization for Standardization (ISO) sanctioned pallet dimension (i.e., 40.00″×48.00″, 39.37″×47.24″, 45.9″×45.9″, 42.00″×42.00″, 43.30″×43.30″, or 31.50″×47.24″), a Grocery Manufacturers&#39; Association (GMA) pallet dimension (i.e., 40″×48″, 42″×42″, 48″×48″, 48″×40″, 48″×42″, 40″×40″, 48″×45″, 44″×44″, 36″×36″, 48″×36″, 35″×45.5″, or 48″×20″), a European pallet dimension (i.e., 31.50″×47.24″, 47.24″×39.37″, 39.37″×47.24″, 31.50″×23.62″, 23.62″×15.75″, or 15.75″×11.81″), an Australian pallet dimension (i.e., 45.87″×45.87″), or any desired size or shape. It should also be understood that the overall size and shape of the tray or endcap elements  200  (and the resulting packaging assembly  300 ), and the various portions thereof, is a design choice based upon the desired functionality, compatibility with desired articles or products, and/or appearance of the packaging assembly  300 . 
     In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, at least a bottom surface of the first tray or endcap element  200  may be textured to provide a surface having a desired degree of friction relative to a floor or other support surface. Thus, the bottom surface of the first tray or endcap element  200  (or a top surface of the second tray or endcap element  200 ) may be chosen so as to allow the packaging assembly  300  to resist movement relative to a floor or other surface or more easily slide across a floor or other surface. 
     When properly positioned, a corner portion of at least the partial tray layer  210  extends beyond at least a portion of the article or product  400 . In various exemplary embodiments, the corner recesses  225  are formed so as to generally allow the corrugated corner elements  100  to be aligned with the corners of the partial tray layer  210 . 
     The corner elements  100  are sized so as to be positioned within the corner recesses  225  of the spaced endcap elements  200 . When positioned within the corresponding corner recesses  225 . A terminal end of the second terminal end  102  abuts against the corner portion of at least a partial tray layer  210  of a bottom or first tray or endcap element  200 . Likewise, a terminal end of the first terminal end  101  abuts against the corner portion of at least a partial tray layer  210  of a top or second tray or endcap element  200 . In this manner, the terminal ends of the second terminal ends  102  of the corner elements  100  are supported by the bottom or first tray or endcap element  200  and the terminal ends of the first terminal ends  101  will the corner elements  100  support the top or second tray or endcap element  200 . Thus, the packaged article or product  400  is maintained within the spaced endcap elements  200  and the corrugated corner elements  100 . 
     Each corner recess  225  is formed so as to mateingly engage at least a portion of the first terminal end  101  or the second terminal end  102  of one of the corrugated corner elements  100  at least partially therein. Each corner recess  225  forms a extending substantially parallel curve, mating, or matingly offset curve of the inner wall  130  of at least a first terminal end  101  or a second terminal end  102  of each of the corrugated corner elements  100  to form a mating surface for the inner wall  130  of at least a first terminal end  101  or a second terminal end  102  of each of the corrugated corner elements  100 . Generally, each corner recess  225  is formed so as to substantially abut the inner wall  130  of at least a first terminal end  101  or a second terminal end  102  of each of the corrugated corner elements  100 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, opposing end portions of each corner recess  225  is formed so as to include a notch, groove, or other surface or surface preparation that allows at least a portion of the first corner element end  128  and the second corner element end  129  to be at least partially captured or frictionally engaged against the end portions of each corner recess  225 . Thus, during installation, the corrugated corner elements  100  may be flexed inward, relative to the vertex  122 , to be positioned within the respective corner recesses  225 . Once appropriately positioned within the respective corner recesses  225 , the natural resilience of the corrugated corner element  100 , causes the corrugated corner element  100  to resiliently recover to or toward the original shape of the corrugated corner element  100 . This provides frictional or captured engagement of the corrugated corner element  100  within the respective corner recess  225 . 
     Once assembled, adjacent or abutted surfaces of the corner elements  100  and tray or endcap elements  200  may optionally be bonded together, such as, by adhesives. Alternatively, portions of the corner elements  100  and tray or endcap elements  200  may optionally be attached, coupled, fastened, secured, or bonded together, mechanically (i.e., vi, upon which a nails, screws, rivets, pins, or other fasteners) or as otherwise known in the art. In still other embodiments, the packaging assembly  300  may be wrapped in plastic or other material to further secure the corner elements  100  to the tray or endcap elements  200 . 
     One or more apexes of alternating ridges  126  make contact portions of the surface of the interior of the product packaging and the packaged article or product  400  to maintain the packaged article or product  400  in a desired position relative to the product packaging and provide package cushioning or support to the packaged article or product  400  during shipping, transport, or storage. 
     During shipping, transport, or storage of the packaged article or product  400 , the corrugated corner element  100  helps to resist movement of the packaged article or product  400  within the product packaging. Additionally, if the product packaging is bumped or jarred, causing the packaged article or product  400  to shift within the product packaging, the alternating ridges  126  and grooves  124  allow for a degree of inward and/or outward flexion and resilient recovery toward the original shape of the corrugated corner element  100 . 
     It should be appreciated that the corrugated corner elements, the tray or endcap elements, and/or the packaging assembly of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments illustrated and described in  FIGS.  1 - 16   . For example,  FIGS.  17 - 31    illustrate certain components, elements, and/or aspects of certain exemplary embodiments of corrugated offset corner elements  500  and tray or endcap elements  600  that may optionally be used to form the packaging assembly  300 , according to the present disclosure. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS.  17 - 31   , the corrugated offset corner elements  500  comprise an elongate portion of material or a sheet  505 , extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis, A L , from a first terminal end  501  to a second terminal end  502  and extending substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis, A L , from a first corner element end  528  to a second corner element end  529 , a vertex  522 , a first corner element leg  510 , a second corner element leg  512 , an outer wall  520 , an inner wall  530 , one or more alternating ridges  526  and/or grooves  524 , and an optional score mark  527 . 
     It should be appreciated that these elements correspond to and operate similarly to the sheet  105 , the first terminal end  101 , the second terminal end  102 , the first corner element end  128 , the second corner element end  129 , the vertex  122 , the first corner element leg  110 , the second corner element leg  112 , the outer wall  120 , the inner wall  130 , the one or more alternating ridges  126  and/or grooves  124 , and the optional score mark  127 , as described herein, with reference to the corrugated corner elements  100 . 
     The tray or endcap elements  600  generally comprise at least one partial tray layer  610  having a top surface  611  and a bottom surface  612  and/or full tray layer  620  having a top surface  621  and a bottom surface  622 , at least one support layer  630  having a top surface  631  and a bottom surface  632 . 
     It should also be appreciated that these elements correspond to and operate similarly to the at least one partial tray layer  210 , the top surface  211 , the bottom surface  212 , the full tray layer  220 , the top surface  221 , the bottom surface  222 , the at least one support layer  230 , the top surface  231 , and the bottom surface  232 , as described herein, with reference to the tray or endcap elements  200 . 
     However, as illustrated  FIGS.  17 - 31   , the vertex  522  of the corrugated offset corner element  500  is not formed along a proximate a center of the corrugated offset corner elements  500  (defining a first corner element leg  510  having a substantially equal length as the second corner element leg  512 ). Instead, the vertex  522  is formed closer to the first corner element end  528  than the second corner element end  529 . Thus, the length of the first corner element leg  510  (as measured between the first corner element end  528  and the vertex  522 ) is less than the length of the second corner element leg  512  (as measured between the second corner element end  529  and the vertex  522 ). 
     Thus, the vertex  522  is formed offset from the center of the corrugated offset corner element  500  such that the corrugated offset corner element  500  is generally “L” shaped, while the corrugated corner element  100  is generally “V” shaped, by comparison. 
     It should also be appreciated that the corrugated offset corner elements  500  may be formed such that the vertex  522  is formed closer to the second corner element end  529  than the first corner element end  528 . Thus, the length of the first corner element leg  510  (as measured between the first corner element end  528  and the vertex  522 ) may optionally be greater than the length of the second corner element leg  512  (as measured between the second corner element end  529  and the vertex  522 ). 
     In these exemplary embodiments, the score mark  527  is formed proximate or along the vertex  522 . 
     The score mark  527  provides a line or portion along which the corrugated offset corner element  500  may be comparatively more easily bent or folded, whether along the grain or against the grain of the corrugated offset corner element  500  or the sheet  505 . Thus, the score mark  527  may optionally provide a compressed or weakened area or portion of the corrugated offset corner element  500 , along which the corrugated offset corner element  500  may be comparatively more easily bent or folded. 
     By bending or folding the corrugated offset corner element  500  along the score mark  527 , as illustrated by the semicircular arrows in  FIG.  30   , a portion of the corrugated offset corner element  500  can be more easily manipulated to the more flattened position, as illustrated in  FIG.  31   . 
     Each corner recess  625  is formed in a portion of the at least one partial tray layer  610  and/or the at least one support layer  630 . Each corner recess  625  is formed proximate each corner of the at least one partial tray layer  610  and/or full tray layer  620 . In this manner, when the partial tray layer  610 , the full tray layer  620  and/or the support layer  630  are attached or coupled to form the endcap element  600 , corner portions of at least the partial tray layer  610  extend beyond the corner recesses  625  formed in the partial tray layers  610  and/or the support layers  630 . 
     In a fashion similar to the corner recesses  225 , each corner recess  625  is formed so as to mateingly engage at least a portion of the first terminal end  501  or the second terminal end  502  of one of the corrugated offset corner elements  500  at least partially therein. Each corner recess  625  forms a extending substantially parallel curve, mating, or matingly offset curve of the inner wall  530  of at least a first terminal end  501  or a second terminal end  502  of each of the corrugated offset corner elements  500  to form a mating surface for the inner wall  530  of at least a first terminal end  501  or a second terminal end  502  of each of the corrugated offset corner elements  500 . Generally, each corner recess  625  is formed so as to substantially abut the inner wall  530  of at least a first terminal end  501  or a second terminal end  502  of each of the corrugated offset corner elements  500 . Thus, each corner recess  625  includes one or more concave scallop(s) or alternating ridges and grooves cut out of the ends that allows a corrugated offset corner element  500  to be located planarly by interlocking with the sinusoidal or other interior shape of the accompanying corrugated offset corner element  500 . 
     The corner elements  500  may be utilized in conjunction with a first tray or endcap element  600  and a second tray or endcap element  600  to create a packaging assembly  300  for an article or product  400 . 
     While the present disclosure has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments outlined above, the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting and the fundamental disclosed systems, methods, and/or apparatuses should not be considered to be necessarily so constrained. It is evident that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular variation set forth and many alternatives, adaptations modifications, and/or variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. 
     It is to be understood that the phraseology of terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. 
     In addition, it is contemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variations described herein may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein. 
     Furthermore, where a range of values or dimensions is provided, it is understood that every intervening value or dimension, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value or dimension in that stated range is encompassed within the present disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and is also encompassed within the present disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the present disclosure. 
     Accordingly, the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments will reveal the general nature of the present disclosure, such that others may, by applying current knowledge, change, vary, modify, and/or adapt these exemplary, non-limiting embodiments for various applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure and elements or methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in practicing the present disclosure. Any and all such changes, variations, modifications, and/or adaptations should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed exemplary embodiments and may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. 
     Also, it is noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “and”, “said”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Conversely, it is contemplated that the claims may be so-drafted to require singular elements or exclude any optional element indicated to be so here in the text or drawings. This statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely”, “only”, and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements or the use of a “negative” claim limitation(s).