PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-10081485-B2
Application Number: US-201615063897-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Product packaging

Abstract:
A product packaging is disclosed, including a rear panel, a front panel coupled to the rear panel, and an intermediate panel between the front panel and the rear panel. The intermediate panel may include a spacing segment that spaces a lip portion of the front panel away from the rear panel, and the intermediate panel may define a product-receiving recess of the packaging.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. Product packaging, comprising:
 a rear panel; 
 a front panel coupled to the rear panel; and 
 an intermediate panel disposed between the front panel and the rear panel, 
 wherein the intermediate panel comprises a spacing segment that spaces a lip portion of the front panel away from the rear panel, 
 wherein the intermediate panel defines a product-receiving recess, 
 wherein the front panel comprises an opening over a majority of the product-receiving recess, and 
 wherein the lip portion overhangs the product-receiving recess. 
 
     
     
       2. The product packaging of  claim 1 , wherein the lip portion overhangs the spacing segment. 
     
     
       3. The product packaging of  claim 1 , wherein the opening exposes a majority of the product-receiving recess when the product-receiving recess does not contain a product. 
     
     
       4. The product packaging of  claim 1 , wherein the intermediate panel is formed at least in part by removing material along fold lines thereof. 
     
     
       5. The product packaging of  claim 1 , wherein the intermediate panel is formed at least in part by mitre cuts extending along fold lines thereof. 
     
     
       6. The product packaging of  claim 1 , wherein corners of the spacing segment are formed at least in part along mitre cuts in material of the intermediate panel. 
     
     
       7. The product packaging of  claim 6 , wherein the mitre cuts do not extend through the entirety of the intermediate panel. 
     
     
       8. The product packaging of  claim 1 , further comprising at least one retention member formed of and protruding from the rear panel. 
     
     
       9. The product packaging of  claim 8 , wherein the retention member forms an arm that includes an undercut portion. 
     
     
       10. The product packaging of  claim 8 , wherein the at least one retention member comprises a portion of an adhesive film that extends onto the rear panel. 
     
     
       11. The product packaging of  claim 1 , wherein the rear panel is flat,
 wherein the front panel is curved, and 
 wherein the front panel and the rear panel are attached along their peripheries. 
 
     
     
       12. The product packaging of  claim 1 , further comprising a pull tab adhered within the product-receiving recess. 
     
     
       13. The product packaging of  claim 12 , further comprising a dual-layer adhesive,
 wherein the pull tab is adhered to the rear panel by the dual-layer adhesive, and 
 wherein the dual-layer adhesive is covered in part by an adhesive deadening. 
 
     
     
       14. The product packaging of  claim 12 , further comprising a cushioning layer disposed on the spacing segment. 
     
     
       15. The product packaging of  claim 14 , wherein the cushioning layer is silicone. 
     
     
       16. The product packaging of  claim 12 , wherein ends of the spacing segment are rounded. 
     
     
       17. The product packaging of  claim 1 , wherein each panel is formed entirely from a flat sheet of paper. 
     
     
       18. The product packaging of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a second rear panel; 
 a second front panel coupled to the second rear panel; and 
 a second intermediate panel disposed between the second front panel and the second rear panel, 
 wherein the second intermediate panel comprises a spacing segment that spaces a lip portion of the second front panel away from the second rear panel, 
 wherein the intermediate panel defines a second product-receiving recess, and 
 wherein the rear panel and the second rear panel are rotatably coupled to each other along edges thereof. 
 
     
     
       19. The product packaging of  claim 1 , wherein the front panel is rigidly coupled to the rear panel. 
     
     
       20. Product packaging, comprising:
 two segments, each formed by one or more sheets, each segment comprising:
 a pocket for retaining and displaying a product, the pocket including an opening sized and dimensioned to receive the product, 
 wherein the opening has a lip that overhangs a perimeter of the pocket in order to retain the product within the pocket, and 
 wherein the first segment and the second segment are rotatably coupled to each other along edges thereof. 
 
 
     
     
       21. The product packaging of  claim 20 , further comprising at least one retention member disposed in the pocket. 
     
     
       22. The product packaging of  claim 20 , wherein each sheet is formed entirely from a flat sheet of paper. 
     
     
       23. The product packaging of  claim 20 , wherein the opening exposes a majority of the pocket. 
     
     
       24. Product packaging, comprising:
 a rear panel; 
 a front panel coupled to the rear panel; 
 an intermediate panel disposed between the rear panel and the front panel, the intermediate panel forming a product-receiving recess; and 
 a retention member disposed within the product-receiving recess, 
 wherein the retention member forms an arm that includes an undercut portion. 
 
     
     
       25. The product packaging of  claim 24 , wherein the retention members are formed from a fold in the first rear panel. 
     
     
       26. The product packaging of  claim 24 , further comprising:
 a second front panel coupled to the rear panel; and 
 a second intermediate panel disposed between the rear panel and the second front panel, 
 wherein the rear panel forms a connector panel that connects the front panel to the second front panel. 
 
     
     
       27. The product packaging of  claim 26  wherein the rear panel is formed from a single film or sheet. 
     
     
       28. The product packaging of  claim 26 , further comprising a cover panel, wherein the rear panel forms a second connector panel that connects the second front panel to the cover panel. 
     
     
       29. The product packaging of  claim 24 , wherein the rear panel is flat,
 wherein the front panel is curved, and 
 wherein the front panel and the rear panel are attached along their peripheries. 
 
     
     
       30. The product packaging of  claim 24 , wherein each panel is formed entirely of paper. 
     
     
       31. The product packaging of  claim 24 , wherein the front panel comprises an opening over a majority of the product-receiving recess.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/130,486, filed Mar. 9, 2015, titled “Packaging System,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/151,766, filed Apr. 23, 2015, titled “Packaging System,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/130,529, filed Mar. 9, 2015, titled “Packaging,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/145,311, filed Apr. 9, 2015, titled “Packaging,” all of which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference thereto. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to packaging. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention relate to product packaging. In some embodiments the packaging includes a rear panel, a front panel coupled to the rear panel, and an intermediate panel disposed between the front panel and the rear panel. The intermediate panel may include a spacing segment that spaces a lip portion of the front panel away from the rear panel. Thus, the intermediate panel may define a product-receiving recess. 
     In some embodiments the packaging includes a first rear panel, a first front panel coupled to the first rear panel, and a first intermediate panel disposed between the first rear panel and the first front panel. The product packaging may also include a second rear panel, a second front panel coupled to the second rear panel, and a second intermediate panel disposed between the second rear panel and the second rear panel. Finally the product packaging may include a cover panel, a first connector panel, and a second connector panel, with the first connector panel coupled to the first rear panel and the second rear panel, and the second connector panel coupled to the second rear panel and the cover panel. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is an exploded view showing a packaging system according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  shows a product insert and packaging components according to some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  show front and rear sides of a product insert according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 4  shows product insert components according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 5  shows a product insert and item according to some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 6A and 6B  show front and rear sides of a product insert according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 7  shows product insert components according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 8  shows a product insert and items according to some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 9A and 9B  show front and rear sides of a product insert according to some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C  show a product insert in a folded configuration according to some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C  show a product insert transitioning to a folded configuration according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 12  shows product insert components according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 13  shows a detailed view of a product insert according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 14  shows a detailed view of a product insert according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 15  shows a product insert component according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 16  shows a sectional view of a product insert according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 17  shows a sectional view of a product insert according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 18  shows a sectional view of a product insert according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 19  shows a product packaging film with a product and product insert according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 20  shows a product packaging film according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 21  shows a product packaging film according to some embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     The following disclosure relates to a packaging system. Packaging systems according to embodiments of the present invention may be used for packaging items/products such as, for example, watches and watch bands (including smart watches and smart watch bands). Packaging systems as described herein may include a sleeve or elongated recess that forms a pocket into which an elongated item (like a watch band) may be slid, and retained therein. The item may be retained therein by, for example, a portion of the packaging around the perimeter of the recess that overlaps a portion of the item. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to the figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  is an exploded view showing a packaging system  10 . Packaging system  10  includes an upper box  12  and a lower box  18  that cooperate together to enclose the remaining parts. The lower box  18  includes a tray assembly having cavities that receive various accessory parts including for example cables and power adapters  16 . The lower box also forms an area for receiving a document folder  20  and a product jewel case  14 . Product jewel case  14  may for example include a product such as a watch. Document folder  20  may include various catalogs and information books about the product. It also may include a product insert  22  that slides into an opening  24  in document folder  20 . Product insert  22  may carry one or more additional accessories (e.g., accessories that work with the product contained in the product jewel case  14 ). For example, in the case of a watch, product insert  22  may include an accessory  28  such as a watch band. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , product insert  22  may include a recess  26  configured to receive accessory  28 . Recess  26  may include a lip  27  that helps retain accessory  28  in recess  26  by overlapping a portion of accessory  28  when accessory  28  is received within recess  26 . For example, lip  27  may extend over a peripheral edge of accessory  28 . Lip  27  may for example be sized smaller than accessory  28  such that lip  27  retains accessory  28  within recess  26 . In one example, lip  27  forms a flange or undercut area. 
     Recess  26  may additionally include retention members  29 , as shown in  FIG. 3A . Retention members  29  are configured to further aid in retaining accessory  28  within recess  26 . For example, they may form a side surface for trapping accessory  28  within a defined space. Retention members  29  may fold up and form arms and the arms may additionally include a shape or undercut for holding accessory  28 . In some embodiments, retention members  29  may include an adhesive layer  298 . Adhesive layer  298  may add rigidity to retention members  29  when retention members  29  are folded up to form arms. In some embodiments, adhesive layer  298  may extend from retention members  29  onto areas of rear panel  200  that surround retention member  29 , to increase integrity between retention members  29  and their surrounding areas. Adhesive layer  298  may be transparent. In some embodiments, product insert  22  is formed from a film or sheet. For example, but not limited to, paper sheets or cardboard. In some embodiments product insert is formed entirely of paper (with the potential exception of adhesive). In this way, product insert  22  can be entirely recyclable. All product inserts described herein may be formed entirely of paper, and which can provide the same benefits. 
     In some embodiments, product insert  22  may be formed from multiple sheets that are stacked together. As shown in  FIG. 3 , for example, in some embodiments the product insert may include a front panel  30  and a rear panel  32 . Front panel  30  may include a cut out  26  that forms an opening and lip  27  used to retain accessory  28  in product insert  22 , while still displaying a majority of accessory  28  through the opening (i.e., the majority of the viewable surface of accessory  28  from the perspective of the opening). Front and rear panels  30  and  32  may be adhered together. For example, an adhesive may be used between the panels. 
     In some embodiments, product insert  22  may additionally include an intermediate layer such as intermediate panel  38  as shown in  FIG. 4 . In some embodiments, intermediate panel  38  may include one or more features that helps form recess  26 . For example, intermediate panel  38  may include openings  40  and  42 , and may further include depression  44 . Depression  44  may be formed by scoring first and second score lines  45  and creating a bend at a central portion. To allow first and second score lines  45  to bend, intermediate panel  38  may be cut along a center line  46  between pairs of first and second score lines  45 . In this way, areas between pairs of first and second score lines  45  may form side walls of recess  26 . 
     The three-part structure may come together to form product insert  22 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 4 , intermediate panel  38  may be attached to rear panel  32 , and front panel  30  may be attached to intermediate panel  38 . In some examples, an adhesive may be placed between each of the layers. In some cases, the adhesive is placed around the perimeter and/or in areas that do not form part of recess  26  for receiving accessory  28 . The recess portion of intermediate panel  38  is shaped to receive accessory  28  and lip  27  of front panel  30  is shaped to form a flange that extends inward of the recess portion. That is, the inner recess is wider than the distance between opposing sides of lip  27 .  FIGS. 16 and 17  show an example of this flange arrangement.  FIGS. 2, 3A, and 3B  show an embodiment of the product insert constructed from the three part structure shown in  FIG. 4 . 
       FIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B  show another embodiment of a product insert. While  FIG. 3  shows a longitudinally extending configuration (e.g., rectangular),  FIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B  show a square version  50 . This embodiment has a similar construction as  FIG. 2  including recess  58 , lip  59 , and retention features  60 . It additionally includes an open area  62  at the end of recess  58 . This helps a consumer remove accessory  56  from recess  58  (i.e., bend down on the corner thereby leaving the end of accessory  56  exposed). As shown in  FIG. 7 , in some embodiments, product insert having a square configuration has a three-part structure that forms a square version  50  of product insert.  FIG. 7  shows a front panel  64 , an intermediate panel  68 , and a rear panel  66 , which may be arranged together in a stacked configuration to form product insert  50 . Front panel  64 , intermediate panel  68 , and rear panel  66  may have characteristics similar to those described above for product insert  22 . In some embodiments, rear panel  66  is optional.  FIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B  show an embodiment of an assembled square version product insert  50 . 
       FIG. 8  shows another embodiment of a product insert  74 . In this embodiment, product insert  74  includes multiple segments. The multiple segments are configured to fold relative to one another. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 8 , product insert  74  includes three segments and may be considered a trifold. It should be appreciated, however, that any number of segments can be used, for example, a bi-fold. In some embodiments, product insert  74  has at least two states. The first state is an unfolded state which exposes the accessory retained therein, and the second state is a folded state that hides and contains the accessory therein (see, e.g.  FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C ). When folded, product insert  74  can be slid into a box (e.g., document folder  20 , see  FIG. 1 ). 
       FIG. 8  shows an exemplary embodiment of product insert  74 . As shown, product insert  74  includes segments  86 ,  88 , and  90 , which are separated by sections  92  and  94 . Sections  92  and  94  are configured to allow the segments  86 ,  88  and  90  to bend relative to each other. For example, they can be folded over one another to form a stacked configuration. Segments  86 ,  88 , and  90  may or may not include a recess for receiving an accessory. In the illustrated example, the segment  86  includes a recess  78  and the segment  88  includes a recess  80 . The two recesses can be similar or different. In the illustrated example, the recesses  78  and  80  are different. Recess  78  includes space for a first accessory and recess  80  includes space for a second accessory. In the case of a watch for example, the first recess  78  may include a short band  82  and the second recess  80  may include a long band  84 . Product insert  74  may include additional features such as tab  96  and tab  98 , which can be folded over the other segments to enclose the assembly or used to remove product insert  74  from document folder  20 . 
       FIG. 8  an exemplary embodiment of a tri-fold structure of a product insert  74  with long band  84 , short band  82 , and protrusion  95 . Opening  99  may receive protrusion  95  when the product insert is in the closed configuration. Opening  99  may include an adhesive or cushioning material such as silicone to hold the protruding metal portion  95  of item  82 ,  84 . In some embodiments, product insert  74  includes an opening  99  in front panel  400 . Opening  99  may be used to receive, for example, a protruding portion of item  82 ,  84 , which may be, for example, a protruding metal part of a watch band (e.g., protrusion  95 ). To help minimize tarnishing in the case where protrusion  95  is a metal part formed of a precious metal, such as gold or silver (or any other material that may be susceptible to tarnishing) the inner surface of rear panel  200  exposed through opening  99  may have microfiber applied to it, to provide a soft, non-marring material for the protruding part of item  82 ,  84  to contact. Also, between front panel  400  and rear panel  200  an intercept compound may be applied that absorbs sulfur and other chemicals in the air that could promote tarnishing of the protruding metal portion of item  82 ,  84 , thereby minimizing their free presence within product insert  74 , particularly around protrusion  95  of item  82 ,  84 . For example, the intercept compound may be applied to the inner surface of front panel  400  around opening  99 . Further, opening  99  may include an adhesive or cushioning material such as silicone to hold the protruding metal portion  95  of item  82 ,  84 . 
       FIG. 9A  shows an exemplary embodiment of a tri-fold structure of product insert  74  with long band  84  and short band  82  secured in the tri-fold structure. Retention members  29  may be die cut from the rear panel and may fold up and form arms together to secure products in the tri-fold product insert.  FIG. 9B  shows a rear view of the tri-fold structure of  FIG. 8  with retention members  29  deployed. Retention members  29  may include adhesive layer  298  as shown in  FIG. 9B . Adhesive layer  298  may make retention members  29  more rigid when folded to better secure item  82 ,  84 . 
     In some embodiments, rear panel  200  may be continuous, and may include score lines  210  at which rear panel  200  may fold, as shown in  FIG. 9B . By folding at score lines  210 , rear panel  200  can create the tri-fold structure of product insert  74 . Score lines  210  may be formed by compressing and/or deforming the material of rear panel  200  along score lines  210  to create a localized area that is less resistive to folding than its surrounding area. This promotes clean folds along score lines  210 . An example score cross-section is shown in  FIG. 18 . In some embodiments front panel  400  and intermediate panel  300  may be formed in discrete sections, corresponding to one or more of segments  86 ,  88 , and  90 . When assembled together, the discrete sections of front panel  400  and intermediate panel  300  may be linked together by connection to rear panel  200  and each other. 
       FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C  show tri-fold insert  74  in the folded configuration.  FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C  demonstrate a method of folding the insert. In some embodiments, the method begins by folding segment  86  on to segment  88 . Tab  98  aligns with tab  94  to make tri-fold insert  74  more rigid. Next, segment  90  is folded onto the rear of segment  86 . In this way, intermediate panels  94  and  92  are exposed as shown in  FIGS. 10A and 10C . 
     In some embodiments, product insert  74  is formed in a layered structure, having, for example, three panels layered together: rear panel  200 , intermediate panels  300  (e.g.,  300   a  and  300   b ), and front panels  400  (e.g.,  400   a  and  400   b ) (see, e.g.,  FIG. 12 ). Each of rear panel  200 , intermediate panels  300 , and front panels  400  may be formed of a paper-based material, such as cardstock or paper.  FIGS. 12-18  show embodiments of the present invention assembled using multiple sections.  FIG. 12  shows rear panel  200 , two intermediate panels  300   a  and  300   b,  and two front panels  400   a  and  400   b.  With reference to the three panels used to assemble the second segment  88  of tri-fold insert  74 , panel  300   a  is located between panels  400   a  and  88  in the assembled product. Panel  300   a  may include folded features to create recess  26 .  FIG. 13  presents a detailed view of one end of intermediate panel  300   a.  Recess  26  is created by folding tabs  43  under intermediate panel  300   a.  This creates recess  26  having side walls  350  terminating at ends  41 . In some embodiments, the contours of tabs  43  mirror the contours of recess  609  to create a smooth edge. In some embodiments ends  41  are rounded to provide a soft, non-marring surface contacting item  82 ,  84  when item  82 ,  84  is inserted into recess  26 . Once intermediate panel  300   a  is assembled, front panel  400   a  may be secured to rear panel  200  with intermediate panel  300   a  secured in between to form second segment  88 . 
     In some embodiments, first segment  86  may also include intermediate panel  300   b  and front panel  400   b.  Intermediate panel  300   b  may be assembled in a similar manner as intermediate panel  300   a.  Right intermediate panel  300   b  may further include tab  47  (see  FIG. 14 ). Tab  47  may be folded under intermediate panel  300   b  before intermediate panel  300   b  is placed between rear panel  200  and right front panel  400   b  to form first segment  86 . In this way, tab  47  may elevate front panel  400   b.  When product insert  74  is folded, the additional elevation of front panel  400   b  may provide additional cushioning of item  82 ,  84  contained in the product-recess  26  on panel  88 . For example, item  82 ,  84  may include a metal clasp for a watch band. This clasp may include two metallic parts. The additional cushioning provided by the elevation of front intermediate panel  400   b  may reduce the movement of the metallic parts to reduce the potential for surface marring. 
       FIGS. 12  also shows a method of assembling a product insert  74  according to some embodiments. In  FIG. 12  the three panels of product insert  74  are shown: rear panels  200  is shown face up, front panels  400   a  and  400   b  are shown face down, and intermediate panels  300   a  and  300   b  are shown face down. Each of these panels is die cut into a rough outer shape. Front panels  400   a  and  400   b  and intermediate panels  300   a  and  300   b  may also be die-cut to form one or more finished inner shapes  604 . Adhesive strips  500  may be applied to the rear of intermediate panels  300   a  and  300   b.  Adhesive may also be applied to front panels  400   a  and  400   b  and rear panel  200  in areas where the panels will connect to each other, intermediate panels  300 , or themselves. Adhesive (e.g., adhesive strips  500 ) may be applied before or after die-cutting. Adhesive may be, for example, tape (e.g., double-sided tape), and may have a release liner on one side that can remain in place to minimize unintended adhesion until the tape is ready to be used, at which point the release liner can be removed. 
     Rear panel  200 , intermediate panels  300   a  and  300   b,  and front panels  400   a  and  400   b  may be scored and/or partially cut (e.g., mitre cut, such as the V-mitre cut described above) along lines along which they will be folded, as described above. For example, score lines or V-mitre cut lines  310  are shown in an embodiment of intermediate panel  300  in  FIG. 15 . The scores and cuts will facilitate clean, accurate, and precise folds later in the assembly process. 
     To prepare intermediate panel  300 , its flaps  320  are folded along mitre-cut lines  310  and adhered back on other portions of intermediate panel  300  to form the spacing segment  350 , as shown in  FIG. 16 . Prepared intermediate panel  300  may then be adhered to front panel  400 . Intermediate panel  300  may be placed over front panel  400  and adhered thereto, such that inner portions of front panel  400  inner openings overlap openings of intermediate panel  300  as described above, particularly along spacing segments  350  (e.g., by lip  27 ,  59  overhanging spacing segment  350  as shown in  FIG. 16 ). 
     Adhered-together intermediate panel  300  and front panel  400  may then be adhered to rear panel  200 . This may be done by adhesive, and/or by a welding operation along the intended periphery of the finished product insert  74 . In some embodiments, centrally-located adhesive strips  500  (that is, adhesive strips not at a boundary of the intended finished product insert  74 ) are used to fix adhered-together intermediate panel  300  to front panel  400 , and then portions of the rear panel  200 -intermediate panel  300 -front panel  400  assembly that are intended to form a periphery  430  of the laminated segments of the finished product insert  74  may be welded together (e.g., by a high-frequency welding operation). 
     The welded-together assembly of rear panel  200 , intermediate panel  300 , and front panel  400  may then be die cut together around the periphery of product insert  74  to give product insert  74  its final shape. The die cuts may be at the outer edge of the welded portion, so that the outer edges of product insert  74  are welded, thereby minimizing the susceptibility of the welds to delaminate, and providing a crisp, clean edge. 
     In some embodiments assembled rear panel  200  may be flat, while front panel  400  may be curved, so that rear panel  200  and front panel  400  are separated within their outer borders. This is represented in the cross-sectional view in  FIG. 16 , taken along line  16 - 16  of  FIG. 9A . This separation may provide space within which item  82 ,  84  may be retained. To maintain and promote this separation, intermediate panel  300  may form spacing segments  350 , which also may act as bumpers inhibiting lateral movement of an item (e.g., accessory  82  or  84 ) retained within recess  78  or  80 . Spacing segments  350  may be formed between and by two closely-spaced fold lines  310 .  FIG. 17  is an enlarged view of portion  24  of  FIG. 16 . 
     Additionally, in some embodiments an additive  360  may be placed between item  82 ,  84  and rear panel  200 , spacing segments  350 , or front panel  400 , to further secure or protect item  82 ,  84 . For example, an adhesive layer may be applied to prevent the lateral movement of item  82 ,  84  in product insert  22 . Additive  360  may also include a shock-absorbing material such as silicone to protect item  82 ,  84  from excessive vibration. Additive  360  may protect item  82 ,  84  by providing a soft, non-marring surface against which to rest, and may help maintain item  82 ,  84  in position by providing a frictional or adhesive force against item  82 ,  84 . 
     In some embodiments, the maximum distance between front panel  400  and rear panel  200  is small (e.g., less than 2 millimeters). This may be to more closely constrain movement of an item  82 ,  84  retained therebetween. To accurately maintain such small distances, in some embodiments fold lines  310  that form spacing segments  350  therebetween are formed as cuts  310  (e.g., V-mitre cuts) that remove some, but not all, material along fold line  310  (see, e.g.  FIG. 15 ). Cuts  310  remove material from intermediate panel  300  (as opposed, for example, to compressing or deforming it, as with a score line). Removing material for cuts  310  helps to form a clean, accurate fold, and minimizes or eliminates bunching up of material that may be attendant to simply folding without a cut, or along a score line. Since fold lines  310  may be close together, bunching or other imprecise deformations may interfere with each other or have more of a visual or operative impact on intermediate panel  300  than may be present in folds spaced farther apart. Removing material for cuts  310  helps minimize or eliminate such bunching or other imprecise deformations, to result in a clean, consistent look and operation. As shown in  FIGS. 16-18 , in some embodiments, cuts  310  create fold lines which enable intermediate panel  300  to be folded back on itself. Adhesives  322  may also be applied to the fold areas to secure the flaps. 
     Cuts  310  may be formed in a V-shape, to form V-mitre cuts  310 . For example,  FIG. 18  shows a cross-section of a portion of intermediate panel  300  in an unfolded configuration, including a pair of V-mitre cuts  310 .  FIG. 17  shows this portion in a folded configuration assembled within a portion of product insert  74 . When folded, opposing sides of the V-shape come together to form a clean corner, as shown in  FIG. 17 . This provides a flat, consistent spacing segment  350 , which can help promote consistent retention of item  82 ,  84 , and smooth sliding of item  82 ,  84  into and out of recess  78 ,  80 , avoiding sticking, misalignment, or a fit that is too tight or too loose. 
     In some embodiments, cuts  310  may not extend continuously across the entirety of intermediate panel  300 ; they may be selectively cut (e.g., selectively V-mitred). For example, as shown in  FIG. 15 , cuts  310  extend only along portions of intermediate panel  300  (e.g., along the sides of areas corresponding to recesses  78 ,  80  of product insert  74 , where they are used to form spacing segments  350 . To achieve this, a cutting tool may be lowered into intermediate panel  200 , may travel along intermediate panel  300  for only the length of fold line  310  to thereby form cut  310 , and may be raised from intermediate panel  300 . 
     To maintain the folded positions of spacing segment  350 , intermediate panel  300  may be adhered to itself. For example, to form spacing segment  350 , a flap portion  320  of intermediate panel  300  adjacent to spacing segment  350  may be folded over and adhered to a portion of intermediate panel  300  on the other side of spacing segment  350 . This may form a three-sided, triangular cross-sectional shape (see, e.g.,  FIG. 17 ).  FIG. 15  shows flap portions  320  in an unfolded configuration along with and adhesives  322 . In some embodiments, instead of or in addition to being adhered to other parts of intermediate panel  300 , flaps  320  may be adhered to other panels (e.g., front panel  400  or rear panel  200 ). For example, flaps  320  may be adhered to rear panel  200  where they contact. Elements of product insert  74  may be adhered together by, for example, tape (e.g., double-sided tape) or glue, or by high-frequency welding. High-frequency welding provides a strong bond and a clean edge, avoiding potential exposed tape or glue. 
     In some embodiments rear panel  200  and front panel  400  (and optionally intermediate panel  300 ) are adhered together about the peripheries  430  of front panel  400  portions. Front panel  400  and rear panel  200  may be adhered together by, for example, tape or glue, or by high-frequency welding. High-frequency welding provides a strong bond and a clean edge, avoiding potential exposed tape or glue. In some embodiments the panels are adhered together by a 2-millimeter-wide weld about their shared peripheries. To facilitate welding, one or more of rear panel  200 , intermediate panel  300 , and front panel  400  may be coated with a BOPP (biaxially oriented polypropylene) film at least in the areas to be welded together. Thus, when assembled, rear panel  200 , intermediate panel  300 , and front panel  400  together form recesses (e.g., recesses  26 ,  58 ,  78 ,  80 ) within which items (e.g., accessories  82 ,  84 ) may be securely retained, and easily inserted or removed, without relying on permanent or difficult-to-remove securing methods such as tape, straps, clamshells, ties, or other separate securing mechanisms. 
     Further, in some embodiments portions of a packaged product may be protected with films disposed around or between portions of the packaged product. For example, as shown in  FIG. 19  such films may be positioned at areas where the packaged product may contact the packaging, other portions of the packaged product, or other items. Some embodiments described herein include one or more protective films  1200  disposed between such parts, to minimize movement and direct contact therebetween. In some embodiments, protective films  1200  may include a tab pull tab  1204 . Pull tab  1204  may be used to remove item  82 ,  84  from product insert  22  as well as to protect its surface while within product insert  22 . Protective films (e.g., protective film  1200 , pull tab  1204 ) may be used similarly in other packaging embodiments described herein, such as product insert  74 . Protective films  1200  as described herein may be formed of a relatively soft material, such as, for example, a polycarbonate (e.g., Lexan®), silicone, polypropylene, or as Mylar®. This can help keep the packaged product in optimum conditions by protecting its surface. 
       FIG. 19  shows item  82 ,  84  in recess  26  of product insert  22 . Protective film  1200  is wrapped around item  82 ,  84  and is also attached to pull tab  1204 . Pull tab  1204  may be adhered to rear panel  200  with adhesive  1232 . Adhesive  1232  may be a dual-layer adhesive. The layer of adhesive  1232  in contact with pull tab  1204  may be a high tack adhesive while the layer of adhesive  1232  in contact with rear panel  200  may be a low tack adhesive. Using a low tack adhesive for rear panel  200  and a high tack adhesive for pull tab  1204  promotes clean removal of adhesive  1232  from product insert  22  when pull tab  1204  is pulled and removed. Further, the shape of the adhesive area may be controlled by using adhesive deadening  1238 . Adhesive deadening  1238  inhibits adherence of the adhesive to surfaces covered with adhesive deadening  1238 . Precise control of the both the area and shape of the adhesive can ensure that a tailored amount of force is required to remove pull tab  1204 . Additionally, the character of the adhesive, including the shape of the adhesion, may contribute to a more pleasing sound as pull tab  1204  is removed. 
     Protective films  1200  may adhere to item  82 ,  84  by, for example, an applied adhesive, a static attraction, or a natural tackiness of protective film  1200 . As shown in  FIG. 21 , protective films  1200  may include wings  1202  that can be used to wrap around portions of item  82 ,  84 , to better secure film  1200  to item  82 ,  84  (e.g., by contacting more surface area, by attaching to more planes of item  400  extending in different directions). 
     Protective film  1200  can cover multiple disparate surfaces of item  500  with a single protective film  1200 . This can help promote proper alignment when applying protective films  1200 , can help retain protective films  1200  on item  82 ,  84 , and can help minimize the number of protective films  1200  used when otherwise multiple protective layers would be applied. For example, as shown in  FIG. 20 , protective film wings  1202  can sequentially wrap around item  82   a  to protect it from contacting item  82   b.    
     In some embodiments, protective films  1200  may include a pad  1220  to provide an increased barrier and cushioning between parts of item  82 ,  84 , relative to that which would be provided by base film  1210  alone (see  FIG. 21 ). In some embodiments, pad  1220  is compression molded (e.g., formed of compression-molded silicone that is compression-molded into a void or discontinuity in base film  1210 ). In some embodiments base film  1210  is a polycarbonate film (e.g., Lexan®). In some embodiments, pad  1220  is injection-molded into a void in base film  1210 . 
     In some embodiments, pad  1220  is positioned so that when protective film  1200  is applied to item  82 ,  84 , pad  1220  is positioned between a magnet of item  82 ,  84  and another portion of item  82 ,  84  (e.g., between a magnet of a watch band and another part of the band itself). This can help to allow the magnet to attract portions of the band through pad  1220 , while protecting the attracted portions of the band from direct contact with the magnetic portion, thereby minimizing potential for marring or other surface imperfections. 
       FIG. 20  shows an exemplary use of protective film  1200  of  FIG. 21 . As shown, one side of pad  1220  may be applied to item  82 ,  84  located on for example, a magnetic portion thereof. Another item or portion of item  82 ,  84  can be positioned on the other side of pad  1220 . In some embodiments magnetic attraction between item  82 ,  84  and the other item or portion of item  82 ,  84  may hold protective film  1200  in place by magnetic attraction through pad  1220 . Protective film  1200  may then be wrapped around item(s)  82 ,  84  and adhered to item(s)  82 ,  84  and itself. A portion of protective film  1200  may be creased so as to protrude away from item  82 ,  84 , providing a convenient pull tab for a user to pull to remove protective film  1200 . One of skill in the art will recognize that the product inserts described herein can be used in a variety of packaging systems, including those disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/519,821, filed Mar. 9, 2015, titled “Packaging with Accessories,” which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto. Further, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/519,936, filed Mar. 9, 2015, titled “Packaging with Accessory,” discloses packaging inserts in accordance with the present invention, and is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto. 
     The foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. These exemplary embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. All specific details described are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. 
     It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings, and that by applying knowledge within the skill of the art, one may readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from the general concept of the present invention. Such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. 
     The detailed description section is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The abstract section may set forth one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of the present invention as contemplated by the inventor(s), and thus, are not intended to limit the present invention and the appended claims. 
     The present invention has been described above with the aid of functional building blocks illustrating the implementation of specified functions and relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternate boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. 
     The phraseology or terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan. 
     The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined in accordance with the claims and their equivalents.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20160308
Publication Date: 20180925
Grant Date: 20180925
Priority Date: 20150309
Inventors: CERNOKUS, EVAN
TANG, Lorraine Y.
DELLE CESE, Francesca Amor
UYEDA, Mark T.
WATSON, THOMAS BRANTON
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "B65D85/40", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D85/40", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D5/5061", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D5/5035", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D5/38", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D5/5061", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D5/5035", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D5/38", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D5/5035", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D85/40", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D5/38", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D5/5061", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 56887373