PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9334101-B2
Application Number: US-201414500444-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Packaging with multiple functions after opening

Abstract:
Packaging including a base and a removable lid for the base. The lid is configured for multiple configurations including a first configuration for storing an item and a second configuration for supporting the lid in a substantially upright orientation for displaying the item. Attachment supports can be included in the base for securing the stand in the upright orientation. Lid supports can be included in the attachment support to support the lid. Alternatively or additionally, an insert having a living hinge can be used to support the lid. The base may be substantially rigid or may be configured to be collapsible or to otherwise allow for multiple configurations.

Claims:
The invention claimed is: 
     
       1. A packaging system, comprising:
 packaging comprising a peripheral sidewall disposed around and extending perpendicularly from a lower surface, the peripheral sidewall and the lower surface forming a cavity; 
 a power opening through the peripheral sidewall; 
 a charging element at least partially disposed within the cavity, where the charging element extends perpendicularly relative to the lower surface and is spaced apart from the lower surface of the cavity by a support element; 
 a power cord extending from the power opening to the charging element, for providing power to the charging element. 
 
     
     
       2. The system of  claim 1 , wherein the charging element is elevated above the lower surface by the support element. 
     
     
       3. The system of  claim 1 , further comprising an item-support surface disposed within the cavity,
 wherein the charging element is elevated above the lower surface by the support element, and 
 wherein the support element extends through the item-support surface. 
 
     
     
       4. The system of  claim 1 , further comprising an acoustic amplifier. 
     
     
       5. A packaging system, comprising:
 packaging forming a cavity for at least partially containing an electronic device; 
 an item-support surface disposed within the cavity for supporting the electronic device, wherein the item-support surface defines an opening therethrough; 
 a charging element at least partially disposed above the item-support surface, 
 a support element supporting the charging element, wherein the support element extends through the opening in the item-support surface, 
 wherein the charging element is configured to provide power to the electronic device. 
 
     
     
       6. The system of  claim 5 , wherein the charging element is configured to provide power to the electronic device through a physical connection to the electronic device. 
     
     
       7. The system of  claim 5 , wherein the charging element is configured to provide power to the electronic device through a wired connection to the electronic device. 
     
     
       8. The system of  claim 5 , wherein the charging element is configured to provide power to the electronic device by being plugged into the electronic device. 
     
     
       9. The system of  claim 5 , wherein the support element supports the charging element in an upright orientation with respect to the item-support surface. 
     
     
       10. The system of  claim 5 , further comprising an acoustic amplifier.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/099,013, filed May 2, 2011, titled “Packaging With Multiple Functions After Opening,” which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Field 
     The present invention generally relates to packaging, and more particularly, to packaging for an article of manufacture. 
     2. Background 
     Products are often enclosed in packaging for distribution and sale. Conventionally, packaging has been designed to provide benefits such as physical protection of the product, aesthetic appeal to the consumer, and convenience during distribution and handling. 
     Conventional packaging materials, such as boxes, blister packs, and clamshell packaging are typically thrown away once the product is opened. Such single use packaging can be inefficient, and such waste can have a negative environmental impact by accumulating in landfills and elsewhere in the environment. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     The present invention provides for packaging with multiple uses and functions after opening. In one embodiment, the packaging includes a base and a removable lid, wherein the lid is configured to be disposed on the base in two configurations: a first, storage configuration in which the lid and base create a cavity for storing an item, and a second, display configuration in which the lid is disposed in the attachment support to fixedly support the lid in a substantially upright orientation for displaying an item resting on the lid between the lid and base, and wherein the attachment support is configured to raise the lid above the base to create a gap under the lid when the lid is in its second configuration. 
     In another embodiment, the packaging includes a base including an interior space; and an attachment support disposed in the interior space, wherein the packaging is configured to support an item in two configurations, a first, storage configuration in which the item is securely stored within the interior space, and a second, display configuration in which the item is supported by the attachment support to fixedly support the item in a substantially upright orientation for displaying the item, and wherein the attachment support is configured to raise the item above the base to create a gap between the item and the base when the item is in its second configuration. 
     Additional features of the invention will be set forth in the description that follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
       The accompanying figures, which are incorporated herein, form part of the specification and illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Together with the description, the figures further serve to explain the principles of, and to enable a person skilled in the relevant art(s) to make and use the exemplary embodiments described herein. 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of packaging of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a packaging configuration. 
         FIG. 2  is a front perspective view of the base of the packaging of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view of the attachment support of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a front perspective view of the lid of the packaging of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a front perspective view of the packaging of  FIG. 1  in a display configuration. 
         FIG. 6  is a front perspective view of the packaging of  FIG. 1  in a display configuration with an item and a power cord disposed therein. 
         FIG. 7  is an enlarged view of a portion of the interface between the base and the lid of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8 a    is a front perspective view of an insert for use with the packaging of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 8 b    is a back perspective view of the insert of  FIG. 8   a.    
         FIG. 9  is a bottom perspective view of the packaging of  FIG. 1  in a display configuration including the insert of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  is a top view of another insert for use with the packaging of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 11  is a top view of another insert for use with another embodiment of packaging of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a front perspective view of packaging in a display configuration with the insert of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 13  is a top view of another insert for use with another embodiment of packaging of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a front perspective view of another embodiment of packaging of the present invention in a first configuration. 
         FIG. 15  is a front perspective view of the packaging of  FIG. 14  in a second configuration. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following detailed description refers to the accompanying figures, which illustrate exemplary embodiments. Other embodiments are possible. Modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the following detailed description is not meant to be limiting. The operation and behavior of the embodiments presented are described with the understanding that modifications and variations may be within the scope of the present invention. 
       FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of packaging  100  assembled in a packaging configuration. Packaging  100  comprises a lid  102  disposed on top of a base  104  to substantially enclose an interior space formed by the inner surfaces of lid  102  and base  104 . The packaging configuration is configured to allow item  106  to be securely supported within lid  102  and base  104  during transport, retail sale, or other display. In use, an individual opens packaging  100  by removing lid  102  from base  104 . Once lid  102  is removed, the individual can remove item  106  from base  104 . A display configuration, described below, is configured to support an item upright, similar to conventional docking stations. 
     Lid  102  includes a substantially planar surface  110  surrounded by a plurality of short planar side walls  112  and long planar side walls  113  at right angles to surface  108 , which together along with base  104  enclose item  106 . Lid  102  is sized to accommodate item  106 , which may, for example, be an iPhone® smart phone, or iPod Touch®, which are produced by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. One model of the iPhone® is shown in U.S. Pat. No. D618,204. Another model of an iPhone® smart phone is shown in U.S. Pat. No. D627,778. The size, shape, and weight of the item can vary widely. In particular, the dimensions of packaging  100  can alternatively be sized to accommodate portable entertainment devices such as an MP3 player or smart phone, computer tablets such as the iPad®, or any other suitable device one wishes to both package and display. 
     In addition, packaging  100  can be adapted to accommodate items much larger or much smaller than portable handheld electronic devices. For example, the lid can also be adapted to accommodate non-electronic products, such as a book, a picture frame, or any other suitable product. In particular, packaging  100  can be adapted to accommodate relatively complex shapes such as a cylinder, or other, non-geometric shapes. Lid  102  is shaped to substantially follow the form of an outside profile of the item  106 . Lid  102  can alternatively be shaped to substantially follow the form of a portion of an outside profile of item  106 , such as the bottom half of item  106 . 
     Side walls  112  of lid  102  include a step  114  configured to mate with a corresponding ledge  116  formed in base  104  when lid  102  is assembled in its packaging configuration. This step and ledge interface can provide for a relatively flush juncture  118  between the outer surface of lid  102  and base  104  when packaging  100  is assembled in its packaging configuration. The step and ledge interface additionally provides a relatively snug and stable fit between lid  102  and base  104 . 
     In other embodiments, lid  102  can be supported by an item located within base  104  in addition to or instead of by ledge  116 . In one embodiment, the width and length of lid  102  can be slightly larger than the width and length of base  104  so that lid  102  fits snugly over base  104 . In addition, or in the alternative, lid  102  can engage with base  104  via snaps, latches, spring detents, magnets, or the like. Other more permanent attachment means can be used, such as adhesive that provides for permanent or removable attachment between lid  102  and base  104 . 
     Item  106  is supported on an insert  107  in packaging  100 . Insert  107  is a substantially planar, rectangular, thin piece of plastic and is described in further detail below. Insert  107  rests on ledge  116  in base  104  but can alternatively or additionally be supported by another part of base  104  or by items disposed within base  104 . 
     Lid  102  and base  104  are shown as transparent to allow an individual to see item  106  without needing to remove lid  102  from base  104 . However, either can be transparent, translucent, opaque, or any combination or degree thereof. 
     In one embodiment, at least a portion of a front surface of lid  102  is made semitransparent or transparent so that a portion or the entire front of item  106  can be seen through lid  102  when packaging  100  is in its packaging configuration. In one embodiment, at least a portion of surface  108  as well as any other surface are made semitransparent or transparent so that a portion or the entire front and side of item  106  can be seen. In one embodiment, all sides of packaging  100  are made semitransparent or transparent. 
     The various pieces of packaging  100  can be colored or tinted, and can include design elements such as, for example, graphics or print. Transparency can be used in order to more fully display item  106  when packaging  100  is in its packaging configuration. Opacity can be used in order to hide an interior of packaging  100  or to hide a portion of item  106 . Color or design or lack thereof can be used to impact aesthetic appeal. Graphics or print can be used in order to convey information about item  106  or to impact aesthetic appeal. Alternatively or additionally, a technique such as, for example, physical vapor deposition can be used to achieve a desired surface appearance, such as, for example, a mirrored look. Any or all of these techniques can be used on only a portion of one or more parts of packaging  100  or over the entire surface of packaging  100  in order to achieve a desired look. 
     The various parts of packaging  100  can be formed of any suitable material such as rigid plastic, including polycarbonate and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), aluminum, or paper, and can be any suitable thickness. The various parts of packaging  100  can be formed through a variety of processes, including, for example, machining or thermoforming. The suitability of any particular manufacturing process can be influenced by the desired characteristics, as would be understood from the description provided herein. For example, in one embodiment, lid  102  is formed from a flat sheet of PET stock having a thickness in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm. During manufacturing, the PET stock is heated and drawn into a vacuum mold in a thermoforming process in order to form a cavity. In order to facilitate production in this manner, one or more surfaces of the lid include a draft angle θ, which can be, for example, 0.25 to 3 degrees. Openings in lid  102  can be created by a punch operation. Due to the nature of the thermoforming process, various areas of lid  102  may not have a constant thickness. For instance, side walls  112  of lid  102  may be thicker than support surface  110  of lid  102 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , base  104  is shown. Like lid  102 , base  104  includes a substantially planar surface  202  surrounded by a plurality of side walls  204  forming a cavity  206 . The dimensions of base  104  correspond to the dimensions of lid  102 . However, in alternative embodiments, base  104  can have different dimensions than lid  102 . Base  104  includes features designed to accommodate item  106  and accessories for item  106 , such as headphones, a power or data cord, or the like. For example, attachment supports  220  each include a flange  208  projecting from the sides of attachment supports  220  that allow a user to wrap headphones around attachment support  220  underneath flange  208  to prevent the cord from slipping off attachment supports  220 . This arrangement allows for relatively secure storage or transport of the headphones. 
     Base  104  includes a projection  210  which is sized to securely receive a power cord for attaching to item  106 . Base  104  also includes projection  212 , which is sized to securely receive a headphone jack, such as a ¼ inch or 3.55 mm jack. 
     Base  104  includes groove  214  which is configured to accommodate a portion of the power cord to align the cord and provide room for the cord to attach to item  106 . In other embodiments, base  104  includes tunnels or compartments through which cords or other items or accessories can be passed or stored. Base  104  also includes a cord opening  216  operatively sized to allow a cord to pass through side wall  204  of base  104  to its exterior. 
     Base  104  includes a plurality of plug supports  218  having a support surface  219  elevated above base  104  and sized to support and align a dock connector (shown for example in  FIG. 6 ) to be plugged into item  106  in a substantially upright orientation above the base and to stabilize the connection therebetween. Plug supports  218  are sized to support a 30-pin connector, which is commonly used on products produced by Apple Inc., such as the iPod®, iPhone® and iPad®. In other embodiments, plug supports are sized to support alternative plugs, such as a mini- or micro-USB connectors. Any other plug for charging, data transfer, or other suitable use, may be used. 
     Base  104  includes attachment supports  220  for supporting lid  102  when lid  102  is assembled in its display configuration. The display configuration is described in further detail with respect to  FIGS. 4 and 5 . Attachment supports  220  protrude from a central area of planar surface  202  of base  104  and can be in the form of two rectangular, solid pieces having a short side  231  and a long side  230 . Attachment supports  220  may alternatively be hollow, or any other suitable configuration. Any suitable thickness for attachment support  220  can be used. Attachment supports  220  are oriented such that long side  230  runs parallel to short side wall  205  of base  104 . In alternative embodiments, attachment supports  220  can be oriented such that long side  230  runs perpendicular or at another angle relative to short side wall  205  of base  104 . Attachment supports  220  can alternatively be in the form of a single piece of material either connected by a bridge or other piece of material, or can be in the form of a single attachment support  220  located within base  104 . In another embodiment, base  104  does not include a cavity, and attachment supports  220  are located on top planar surface  202  of base  104 . Attachment supports  220  include a hook  222 , which is described in further detail in the description of  FIG. 3 , which may be a curved or bent piece of rigid material configured to removably retain side wall  112  of lid  102  between hook  222  and recessed support surface  234 , as described below. However, any other suitable attachment means, such as a tongue-and-groove arrangement, a friction fit arrangement, snaps, latches, spring detents, magnets, or the like can alternatively or additionally be used. Other more permanent attachment means can be used, such as adhesive for example, which provides for permanent or removable attachment between attachment supports  220  and lid  102 . 
     Base  104  includes mating connection openings  226  which are configured to receive mating connections of an insert for attaching the insert to the bottom of base  104 . This configuration is described in further detail in the description of  FIG. 9 . Base  104  further includes acoustic amplifier  228 , which is described in further detail in the description of  FIG. 7 . 
     Referring now to the cross-section of one of attachment supports  220  shown in  FIG. 3 , attachment support  220  includes a support base  221  having an inclined front wall  232  and a vertical back wall  233 . Front wall  232  may alternatively be vertical or any other suitable angle or shape. Back wall  233  may alternatively be inclined or any other suitable angle or shape. Support base  221  includes two protrusions, hook  222  and lid support  224 , defining a recess  223  and recessed support surface  234  located therebetween. The first protrusion, or hook  222 , is in the form of a cantilever beam projecting from the top of support base  221 . Hook  222  extends over recessed support surface  234  creating a groove  227  between bottom surface  235  of hook  222  and recessed support surface  234 . Groove  227  is sized to securely receive short side wall  112  of lid  102 . The second protrusion, or lid support  224 , is in the form of a triangular shaped protrusion having an inclined front surface  225  for supporting the back surface  108  of lid  102  for increased stability between lid  102  and attachment support  220  to reduce pressure on hook  222 . Likewise, recessed support surface  234  is sloped to create a right angle between recessed support surface  234  and flat surface  225  of lid support  224  in order to increase the stability of lid  102  when lid  102  is supported within attachment support  220 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , lid  102  includes a cavity  302  formed by support surface  110  and side walls  112  and  113 . Lid  102  further includes an opening  304  in short side wall  112  to accommodate a dock connector when used in the display configuration. Opening  304  in particular permits item  106  to be plugged in from the bottom of item  106  when the bottom is resting on lid  102 . Opening  304  may be disposed at either side wall  112 . Lid  102  also includes an acoustic opening  306 , which is described in further detail with respect to  FIG. 7 . 
     In its display configuration, lid  102  is disposed within cavity  206  formed in base  104  and coupled to base  104  via attachment supports  220  to form a docking station for display or interaction with item  106 . In particular, lid  102  is configured to support item  106  slanted in an upright and lengthwise orientation. In another embodiment, lid  102  is configured to support item  106  in a slanted upright widthwise i.e., landscape, orientation. 
     Accessories (not shown), such as plastic or paper inserts, power cords, earphones, USB connectors, and the like, or warranties and instruction manuals can be stored inside cavity  206  of base  104  in either the display or packaging configuration. They can be marked with identifying words or pictures to convey information to the consumer about the product inside the packaging or other information. They can be shaped to conform to the shape of base  104  and sized to fit snugly in the interior thereof. In one embodiment, the items are opaque so that any items stored within are not visible when inside packaging  100 . 
       FIG. 5  is a front perspective view of the packaging of  FIG. 1  in a display configuration. In use, short side wall  112  of lid  102  is placed within groove  227  formed by hook  222  in attachment support  220 . Hook  222  serves to securely support short side wall  112 . Short side wall  112  is further supported by angled recessed support surface  234  and inclined surface  225  of lid support  224  so that lid  102  is displayed in a substantially upright orientation. Once lid  102  is supported within attachment support  220 , an individual may place item  106  within cavity  302  of lid  102  to be displayed within lid  102 . Attachment support  220  is configured to raise lid  102  above base  104  to create a gap  402  between wall  112  of lid  102 , top surface  202  of base  104 , and between attachment supports  220  to receive a plug (shown for example in  FIG. 6 ). In particular, gap  402  is sized to permit item  106  to be plugged in from the bottom of item  106  when the bottom is resting on lid  102 . 
       FIG. 6  is a front perspective view of packaging  100  in a display configuration with item  106  and a power cord  502  disposed therein. Power cord  502  is passed through cord opening  216  of base  104  and secured in place by projection  210 . Power cord  502  can be wrapped around the front of attachment supports  220  and is supported by plug support  218 . Packaging  100  can also accommodate other arrangements of power cord  502 . Dock connector  504  is located within gap  402  and plugged into item  106 . 
     As best seen in  FIG. 7 , acoustic opening  306  in lid  102  is configured to line up with a speaker  602  of item  106 . Arrows  604  show the direction of sound waves from speaker  602 , through acoustic opening  306 , and out through acoustic amplifier  228 . Acoustic amplifier  228  is in the form of a generally conically shaped projection  606  having a curved side wall  608 . However, any suitable shape for directing sound can be used. When the conically shaped projection is aligned with speaker  602 , the two pieces create a path through which sound may be passed through and amplified. Acoustic amplifier  228  is located on top of one of flanges  208 . For example, base  104  is configured to receive item  106  having a speaker located on the left end of the bottom side of item  106 . Opening  306  in lid  102  is configured to line up with the speaker on item  106 . As a result, when item  106  is placed in lid  102  and sound is produced through speaker  602 , the sound travels through acoustic opening  306  in lid  102  and is directed by acoustic amplifier  228  towards the front of lid  102 , amplifying sound from speaker  602 . 
     In another embodiment, acoustic amplifier  228  is directed towards base  104  itself, which allows the base to also serve as an acoustic amplifier. Acoustic opening  306  can serve as an opening to direct the sound or one or more additional openings can be formed in base  104  to direct sound therethrough. 
     Base  104  may additionally be configured to accommodate electrical components such as an infrared (IR) sensor, an audio “line out”, or a female-to-male plug adaptor. These components could serve to better replicate the functions of a conventional docking station. In one embodiment, a circuit board embedded into base  104  of packaging  100  includes these components. In another embodiment, a custom accessory could be integrated or otherwise added to packaging  100 . 
       FIG. 8 a    is a front perspective view of an insert  702  for use with packaging  100 . Insert  702  is a substantially planar piece of thin plastic, however, other suitable materials and shapes may be used. Insert  702  includes friction pads  704  which serve to minimize movement between packaging  100  and a support surface, such as a desk or a table or merely to elevate packaging  100  above the support surface when place on the bottom  802  of base  104 , as shown in  FIG. 9 . Insert  702  includes three friction pads  704  located on one side of insert  702 . However, a greater number or lesser number of friction pads can be used as desired. Friction pads  704  are shown as thin and substantially rectangular, however, they can be any other suitable shape and size. Additionally, friction pads  704  can be located on both sides of insert  702 , on the side of insert  702 , or any other suitable location. Insert  702  may be disposed in base  104  to support item  106  in the packaging configuration after the individual opens packaging  100 , they may choose to place insert  702  on the bottom of base  104 , as shown in  FIG. 9 , to create a relatively non-slip surface for base  104 . In other embodiments, friction pads  704  can additionally or alternatively be located directly on the bottom of base  104  or can be included in packaging  100  for a user to attach to either insert  702  or base  104 . 
       FIG. 8 b    is a back perspective view of insert  702 . Insert  702  includes mating connections  706  in the form of four rectangular protrusions that project from insert  702 . Mating connections  706  are configured to engage with corresponding mating connection openings  226  in base  104  to secure insert  702  to base  104 . In addition or in the alternative, insert  702  can engage with base  104  via snaps, latches, spring detents, magnets, or the like. Other more permanent attachment means can be used, such as adhesive, which provides for permanent or removable attachment between lid  102 , base  104 , and insert  702 . 
       FIG. 10  is a top view of insert  107  for use with packaging  100 . Insert  107  is a substantially planar, rectangular, thin piece of plastic. Insert  107  can additionally or alternatively be made of paper, thin cardboard, or any other suitable material. Insert  107  includes an attachment support opening  904  that allows insert  107  to slide over attachment supports  220  of base  104  and rest on ledge  116  of base  104  to cover cavity  206  in base  104  when in the display configuration. Insert  107  has a peripheral surface sized to fit closely within side walls  204  and  205  of base  104  and attachment support opening  904  sized to fit closely over attachment supports  220  of base  104  so that insert  107  substantially covers the interior of base  104  when insert  107  is placed on base  104 . However, attachment support opening  904  can have other suitable shapes or sizes which are compatible with attachment supports  220 . 
     Insert  107  is configured to be supported by ledge  116  of base  104  in the packaging configuration and item  106  rests on it. In another embodiment, insert  107  is configured to rest on flanges  208  of base  104 . When assembled in the dispensing configuration, insert  107  provides a cleaner look to packaging  100  by substantially covering up cavity  206  formed in base  104 . Insert  107  may serve other uses including but not limited to, limiting access to cavity  206 . 
     Insert  107  includes slots  906  which are configured to allow for packaging materials, such as cellophane, plastic wrapping, tape, or other material to pass therethrough which can serve to secure item  106  to insert  107  in the packaging configuration or for any other purpose. Insert  107  can additionally include flanges (not shown) or other protrusions or openings in order to facilitate removing insert  107  from base  104 . In some embodiments, a protrusion formed on insert  107  is sized to substantially mate with a corresponding opening in lid  102  to cover opening  304  in the display configuration or packaging configuration or both. The flanges, protrusions or openings can be located on lengthwise or widthwise ends of insert  107 . In one embodiment, insert  107  includes friction pads similar to friction pads  704  and mating connections similar to mating connections  706  of insert  702 . This configuration allows a user the option of using insert  107  for increased stability between base  104  and a support surface via friction pads  704  or using insert  107  to cover up cavity  206  in base  104 . In one embodiment, separate pieces serving one or more functions of insert  702  and insert  107  are included in the same packaging. 
       FIG. 11  is a top view of another insert  1002  configured for use with another embodiment of packaging  100 . Like insert  702 , insert  1002  is a substantially planar, rectangular, thin piece of material. Insert  1002  includes a living hinge  1004  that extends across the lengthwise, or longitudinal, dimension of insert  1002  and defines a back portion  1006  and a front portion  1008 . Alternatively, living hinge  1004  can be located diagonally across insert  1002  or any other suitable angle. Insert  1002  can be made of plastic, such as polyethylene or polypropylene, or any other suitable material, to allow insert  1002  to bend along the line of the hinge. Insert  1002  can be manufactured in an injection molding operation that creates the living hinge, back portion, and front portion at one time as a single part. Alternatively, the living hinge can be a surface coating on one or more pieces, or can be a separate piece attached to the one or more pieces. Other forms of hinge  1004  can be used, such as a barrel hinge or any other suitable configuration that allows for relative movement between portions  1006  and  1008 . 
       FIG. 12  is a front perspective view of packaging  1100  in a display configuration with insert  1002 . Packaging  1100  includes base  104  having ledge  116  and attachment supports  220 . In this configuration, back portion  1006  of insert  1002  rests on ledge  116  of base  104  and front portion  1008  can serve one or more functions of both lid  102  (described for example with respect to  FIG. 1 ) and lid support  224  (described for example with respect to  FIG. 2 ). That is, front surface  1108  of insert  1002  can support an item (not shown) disposed within packaging  1100 . If the item is removed from packaging  1100 , front portion  1008  of insert  1002  can be lowered to cover cavity  206  in base  104 . One or more additional living hinges can be included in insert  1002  to allow for additional flexure pivots in either front portion  1008  or back portion  1006 . An additional living hinge in back portion  1006 , for example, could facilitate access to the interior or inner space, such as cavity  206  of base  104  without having to remove insert  1002 . A separate cover, similar to lid  102  of  FIG. 1  can be used to cover packaging  1100  for packaging or insert  1002  itself can be used to cover packaging  1100  for packaging. In use, an individual removes item  106  from packaging  1100 . After item  106  is removed, the individual bends front portion  1008  of insert  1002  upright and towards back portion  1006  of insert  1002 . Once front portion  1008  is adjusted to a desirable angle, the individual can place item  106  on attachment supports  220  and against front surface  1108  of insert  1002 . In so doing, attachment supports  220  and front surface  1108  of insert  1002  both support item  106  in a substantially upright position. 
     Like the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 2 and 6 , attachment supports  220  of base  104  include lid supports  224 , which are configured to support the back surface of lid  102  for increased stability between lid  102  and base  104  and to reduce pressure on hooks  222 . Power cord  502  (not shown) can be passed through cord opening  216  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) of base  104  and secured in place by projection  210 . Power cord  502  can wrap around the front of attachment supports  220  and is supported by plug support  218 . Packaging  100  can also accommodate other arrangements of power cord  502 . 
     Insert  1002  is shown as a separate piece from base  104 . However, insert  1002  can combined with base  104  in a single monolithic piece, or can be attached via a tongue-and-groove arrangement, a friction fit, a fastener, snaps, latches, spring detents, magnets, or any other suitable attachment means. 
       FIG. 13  is a top view of another insert  1202  configured for use with another embodiment of packaging  100 . Like insert  1002 , insert  1202  includes a living hinge  1204 , which defines a back portion  1206  and a front portion  1208 . Living hinge  1204  extends across the widthwise dimension of insert  1202  and is configured for use with a base having attachment supports rotated to face a widthwise direction (not shown). Similar to insert  1002 , in use, an individual removes item  106  from the packaging (not shown). After item  106  is removed, the individual bends front portion  1208  of insert  1202  upright and towards back portion  1206  of insert  1202 . Once front portion  1208  is adjusted to a desirable angle, the individual can place item  106  on attachment supports (not shown) and against front surface (not shown) of insert  1202 . In so doing, the attachment supports and front surface of insert  1202  both support item  106  in a substantially upright position. 
     In another embodiment, base  104  itself may be configured to expose attachment supports  220  on which item  106  contained in packaging  100  may be displayed.  FIG. 14  is a front perspective view of packaging  1300  in a substantially upright configuration and  FIG. 15  is a front perspective view of packaging  1300  in a partially collapsed configuration. Packaging  1300  includes a lid (not shown) and attachment supports similar to attachment supports  220  shown, for example in  FIG. 2 . Attachment supports of packaging  1300  can be in the form of a solid piece of material that protrudes from bottom wall  1308  of base  104 . Attachment supports of packaging  1300  include a hook configured to removably attach to side wall  112  of lid  102  (shown, for example in  FIG. 3 ). However, any other suitable attachment means, such as a tongue-and-groove arrangement, a friction fit arrangement, snaps, latches, spring detents, magnets, or the like can alternatively or additionally be used. Other more permanent attachment means can be used, such as adhesive for example, which provides for permanent or removable attachment between attachment supports  220  and lid  102 . 
     Packaging  1300  further includes base  1302  which is able to transform into more than one configuration through the use of hinges. For example, base  1302  includes a first wall  1304  and a second wall  1306  which are flexibly attached to a bottom wall  1308 . First wall  1304  and second wall  1306  are configured to move with respect to bottom wall  1308  around a corresponding pivot (pivot  1310  for the first wall and pivot  1312  for the second wall). 
     Each of first wall  1304  and second wall  1306  include a plurality of sections, such as first section  1314 , second section  1316 , and third section  1318 . First section  1314  is flexibly attached to second section via pivot  1320 , second section  1316  is flexibly attached to third section  1318  via pivot  1322 , and second section is attached to bottom wall via pivot  1312 . First section  1314  is flexibly attached to a third wall  1324 . Third section  1318  is flexibly attached to a fourth wall  1326 . 
     Any or all of the pivots described herein can be in the form of hinges, such as a living hinge, a barrel hinge, or any other suitable configuration that allows for relative movement between the various pieces or sections. 
     Base  1302  additionally includes various magnets and ferromagnetic materials configured to engage with the magnets. For example, second section  1316  includes a magnet  1328  embedded therein and bottom wall  1308  includes a ferromagnetic material  1330  embedded therein. In another embodiment, the ferromagnetic material can be embedded in the second section and the magnet can be embedded in the bottom wall. Magnet  1328  and ferromagnetic material  1330  are positioned such that when second section  1316  is rotated around pivot  1312 , at a predetermined distance, magnet  1328  is close enough to ferromagnetic material  1330  to provide a force causing second section  1316  to collapse against bottom wall  1308 . The force of the attraction between magnet  1328  and ferromagnetic material  1330  is weak enough to allow an individual to pull second section  1316  apart from bottom wall  1308  while still securing second section  1316  to bottom wall  1308 . Second wall  1306  includes a comparable arrangement of a magnet  1332  and ferromagnetic material  1334  in order to orient packaging  1300  in an upright configuration. 
     In one embodiment, base  1302  includes additional magnets and ferromagnetic material arrangements such that base  1302  has substantially at least two relatively fixed configurations. A first configuration corresponding to a collapsed configuration (not shown) is provided wherein second section  1316  adjoins bottom wall at the location of magnet  1328  and first wall  1304 , second wall  1306 , third wall  1324 , and fourth wall  1326  lie substantially flat. 
     In the substantially upright configuration, first wall  1304 , second wall  1306 , third wall  1324 , and fourth wall  1326  can be lifted substantially upright such that base  1302  is in a substantially box-like shape. Magnets and ferromagnetic materials are arranged in suitable locations in base  1302  so that base  1302  can snap into either the first position or second position depending on an individual&#39;s preference. The magnets and ferromagnetic materials can be embedded in the various walls or can be disposed on an outside surface thereof. 
     In use, the individual can pull third wall  1324  and fourth wall  1326  away from each other, which moves first wall  1304  and second wall  1306  toward bottom wall  1308 . When first wall  1304  and second wall  1306  are a predetermined distance from bottom wall, magnet  1328  is close enough to ferromagnetic material  1330  to provide a force causing first wall  1304  and second wall  1306  to collapse against bottom wall  1308 . To put packaging  1300  in its substantially upright configuration, an individual can lift third wall  1324  and fourth wall  1326  towards each other, which likewise lifts first wall  1304  and second wall  1306 . When third wall  1324  and fourth wall  1326  are a predetermined distance from the magnets (not shown) embedded in first section  1314  and third section  1318 , the magnets are close enough to the ferromagnetic material embedded in third wall  1324  and fourth wall  1326  to provide a force causing third wall  1324  and fourth wall  1326  to snap against first wall  1304  and second wall  1306 . 
     An individual can place lid  102  within attachment support of packaging  1300  similar to the embodiment shown for example in  FIG. 5 . That is, short side wall  112  of lid  102  is placed within a groove (such as groove  227  in  FIG. 3 ) formed by a hook in attachment support of packaging  1300 . Like the embodiment of  FIG. 4 , the hook serves to securely support short side wall  112  of lid  102  so that lid  102  is displayed in a substantially upright orientation. Once lid  102  is supported within attachment support  220 , an individual may place item  106  within cavity  302  of lid  102  to be displayed within lid  102 . Like attachment support  220 , attachment support of packaging  1300  is configured to raise lid  102  above base  1302  to create a gap under lid  102  to receive a plug (such as dock connector  504  shown in  FIG. 6 ). 
     While the invention has been described in terms of several preferred embodiments, there are alterations, permutations, and equivalents, which fall within the scope of this invention. The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments or examples, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20140929
Publication Date: 20160510
Grant Date: 20160510
Priority Date: 20110502
Inventors: JANIS ANDREW J.
ROTHKOPF FLETCHER R.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "B65D5/52", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D2585/6837", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D81/36", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D2585/6837", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D2585/6837", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D81/36", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D5/52", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D5/52", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B65D81/36", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 47089512