CONTAINERS, BLANKS, AND METHODS FOR DISPENSING WEB MATERIAL

BACKGROUND
Field of the Disclosed Subject Matter

The disclosed subject matter relates to containers, blanks, and methods for storing and dispensing a web material packaged on a roll, such as parchment paper, greaseproof paper or other such products.

Description of Related Art

Various web materials are available in roll form, such as products used to cover or wrap items. For example, parchment paper is often used to cover baking surfaces to prevent adhesion and clinging of cooked foods, or to improve heat distribution and reduce spreading of raw food preparations during baking. Often web material is packaged in a roll for ease of commercialization and use.

However, storing web material in a roll can create challenges for users of the web material. For example, web material can have a memory, and the web material can tend to revert to a rolled or curled configuration after being dispensed. Curled web material can be challenging to use and can create frustration for the user. For example, a baker may desire a flat piece of parchment paper to line a baking sheet.

Containers can be used to hold rolls of web material, such as coated paper, parchment paper, wax paper, plastic film wrap, aluminum foil, and the like. However, conventional containers generally are not configured to uncurl and straighten web material as it is dispensed from the roll. It is therefore desirable to provide containers, blanks, and methods of dispensing web material that can uncurl and straighten the web material during dispensing.

SUMMARY

The purpose and advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be set forth in and apparent from the description that follows, as well as will be learned by practice of the disclosed subject matter. For purpose of illustration and not limitation, the various embodiments described herein relate to containers, blanks, and methods for dispensing web material from a roll. Additional advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be realized and attained by the containers, blanks, and methods particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof, as well as from the appended drawings.

To achieve these and other advantages, and in accordance with the purpose of the disclosed subject matter, as embodied and broadly described, one aspect of the disclosed subject matter includes a container having a base portion defining a compartment. The base portion includes a bottom panel defining a bottom of the compartment. A front base panel extends upwardly from the bottom panel to define a front of the compartment. A back panel extends from the bottom panel to define a back of the compartment. First and second base side tabs extend between the bottom panel, the front base panel, and the back panel at opposing sides thereof to define opposing sides of the compartment.

The container further includes a lid portion. The lid portion is moveable between an open position for access to the compartment and a dispensing position. The lid portion includes a top panel defining a top of the lid portion, and the top panel is hingedly-coupled to the back panel. A front lid panel extends from the top panel, the front lid panel having a front lid panel pressure edge opposite the top panel. The front lid panel includes a first portion and a second portion folded along a fold line behind the first portion to define the front lid panel pressure edge along the fold line. The front lid panel is configured in the dispensing position to extend within the compartment along the front base panel to pinch a web material to be dispensed from the compartment between the front lid panel pressure edge and the bottom panel. The web material to be dispensed from the compartment is dispensed between the front lid panel and the front base panel when the lid portion is in the dispensing position.

The front lid panel can have a front lid panel height defined between the top panel and the front lid panel pressure edge. The front base panel can have a front base panel height defined between the bottom panel and a front base panel free edge. The front lid panel height can have greater than the front base panel height. The front lid panel height can be between approximately 3 percent and approximately 5 percent greater than the front base panel height. The front base panel height can be approximately 1.7 inches and the front lid panel height is approximately 1.75 inches. The first portion and the second portion of the front lid panel can be adhered together. A cutter can be disposed on the front base panel disposed proximate a front base panel free edge. The front lid panel can be further moveable to a closed position, the front lid panel extending outside the compartment along the front base panel in the closed position. A roll of web material can be contained within the compartment. The web material can be parchment paper, greaseproof paper and/or papers of the like. The first and second base side tabs can include first and second front base panel side tabs extending from respective opposing sides of the front base panel, and first and second back panel side tabs extending from respective opposing sides of the back panel. The first and second front base panel side tabs and the first and second back panel side tabs can be attached to the respective first and second base side tabs defining the opposing sides of the compartment. First and second retainer tabs can extend from the first and second base side tabs, respectively, configured to retain a roll of web material within the compartment.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a method of dispensing web material from a roll is provided. The method includes providing a container in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter, and disposing a roll of web material in the container in an overhand arrangement, with the web material extending over a top of the roll toward the front base panel. The method further includes dispensing web material from the roll with the lid portion in the dispensing position, the web material being directed between the front lid panel pressure edge and the bottom panel, the web material being further directed between the front lid panel and the front base panel.

Dispensing web material from the roll can include applying pressure to the lid portion to pinch the web material between the front lid panel pressure edge and the bottom panel. The web material can be parchment paper, greaseproof paper, and/or papers of the like. The dispensed web material can have a dispensed web curvature, the dispensed web curvature measured as a distance between a high point on the dispensed web material and a flat surface on which the dispensed web material is placed. A length of the dispensed web material can be between approximately 6 inches and approximately 60 inches.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter a blank is provided. The blank of the disclosed subject matter includes a base portion having a front base panel including a front base panel free edge and a front base panel fold line opposite the front base panel free edge. A bottom panel extends from the front base panel fold line to a bottom panel fold line. The bottom panel includes opposing first and second bottom side fold lines. First and second bottom panel side tabs extend from the first and second bottom side fold lines, respectively. A back panel extends from the bottom panel fold line to a base-lid hinge line.

The blank of the disclosed subject matter includes a lid portion having a top panel extending from the base-lid hinge line to a top front fold line. A first front lid panel extends from the top front fold line to front lid panel fold line. A second front lid panel extends from the front lid panel fold line to a front lid panel free edge.

The blank can be formed from a cardstock material having a weight of about 350-400 grams per square meter. A front base panel width can be defined between the front base panel free edge and the front base panel fold line and a front lid panel width can be defined between the top front fold line and the front lid panel fold line. The front lid panel width can be greater than the front base panel width. The front lid panel width can be between approximately 3 percent and approximately 5 percent greater than the front base panel width. The front base panel width can be approximately 1.7 inches and the front lid panel width is approximately 1.75 inches.

The top front fold line can include score lines along its length. The first and second base side tabs each can include a side tab fold line and a first and second retainer tab extending from each respective side tab fold line. Each side tab fold line can include score lines along its length. The front base panel can include opposing first and second front base panel side fold lines. The blank can further include first and second front base panel side tabs extending from the first and second front base panel side fold lines, respectively. The back panel can include opposing first and second back panel side fold lines and the blank can further include first and second back panel side tabs extending from the first and second back panel side fold lines, respectively.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and are intended to provide further explanation of the disclosed subject matter claimed.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, are included to illustrate and provide a further understanding of the systems and methods of the disclosed subject matter. Together with the description, the drawings serve to explain the principles of the disclosed subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front, left perspective view of an embodiment of a container in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter, shown with the lid portion in the open position and a roll of web material disposed in the container.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a left side view of the container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a back view of the container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a top view of the container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a front, right perspective view of the container of FIG. 1, shown with the roll of web material removed from the compartment.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of the container of FIG. 1 taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 2, shown with the lid portion in an open position.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the container of FIG. 1 taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 2, shown with the lid portion in an intermediate position having the front lid panel extending into the compartment.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of the container of FIG. 1 taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 2, shown in a dispensing position.

FIG. 11 is a front, left perspective view of the container of FIG. 1, shown with a user applying pressure to the lid portion and dispensing web material from the container.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side view of the container of FIG. 1 taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 2, shown with the lid portion in a closed position.

FIG. 13 is a plan view of an exemplary blank in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the blank configured to form a container as depicted in FIGS. 1-12.

FIGS. 14A-14B are perspective views of an embodiment of a container in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, shown with a pre-folded web material.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional side view of the container of FIG. 14A.

FIGS. 16A-16H are perspective views of a pre-folded web material, shown in a trifold configuration.

FIG. 17 is a plan view of an exemplary blank in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the blank configured to form a container as depicted in FIG. 14A.

FIGS. 18A-18C are perspective views of an embodiment of a container in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, shown with an access recess and lid portion having locking tabs.

FIGS. 19A-19G are cross-sectional side views of the container of FIG. 18, shown transitioning from a closed position to a dispensing position.

FIG. 20 is a plan view of an exemplary blank in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the blank configured to form a container as depicted in FIGS. 18-19.

FIGS. 21A-21B are perspective views of an embodiment of a container in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the container including a tapered front lid panel.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a container in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the container including a tapered front lid panel having a blunt tip.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional side view of the container of FIG. 21A.

FIG. 24 is a plan view of an exemplary blank in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the blank configured to form a container as depicted in FIG. 21A.

FIGS. 25A-25B are perspective views of an embodiment of a container in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the container including a dowel in the compartment.

FIGS. 26A-26B are cross-sectional side views of the container of FIG. 25A.

FIG. 27 is a plan view of an exemplary blank in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the blank configured to form a container as depicted in FIG. 25A.

FIGS. 28A-28B are perspective views of an embodiment of a container in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the container including a slit in a reinforced front base panel.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a container in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the container including a slit in a reinforced front base panel.

FIGS. 30A-30B are cross-sectional side views of the container of FIG. 28A.

FIG. 31 is a plan view of an exemplary blank in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the blank configured to form a container as depicted in FIG. 28A.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a container in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the container including a crescent flap extending from the front base panel into the compartment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the various exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The structure and corresponding method of operation of the disclosed subject matter will be described in conjunction with the detailed description of the system. The accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, serve to further illustrate various embodiments and to explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

The contains, blanks, and methods presented herein can be used to store, dispense, and uncurl web material from a roll. Rolling web material for storage and commercialization can impact the properties of the web material as it is dispensed. For example, web material can have a memory and can maintain a curvature or curl once dispensed. The various containers, blanks and methods of the disclosed subject matter can reduce the curvature or curl of dispensed material. For example, by applying a shear force to the web material as it is dispensed.

The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout separate views, serve to further illustrate various embodiments and to explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. For purpose of explanation and illustration, and not limitation, exemplary embodiments of the container, as well as a blank and various methods for dispensing web material in accordance with the disclosed subject matter, are shown in FIGS. 1-32. The containers, blanks, and methods are suitable for use with a wide variety of products packaged on a roll, including but not limited to paper, aluminum, tape, plastic, and fabric. For example, containers in accordance with the disclosed subject matter can be used to dispense thin sheets of material, such as coated paper, parchment paper, wax paper, plastic film wrap, aluminum foil, and the like.

For purpose of illustration, and not limitation, reference will be made to an exemplary embodiment of a container, or dispensing container, for a rolled product. As used herein, the terms “front,” “end,” “side,” “top,” and “bottom” are used for the purpose of illustration only, and not limitation. That is, it is recognizable that the terms “front,” “end,” “side,” “top,” and “bottom” are interchangeable and are merely used herein as a point of reference. Additionally, as used herein, the term “score line” includes a line incised or otherwise cut into, either partially or entirely through, the surface of the container or the blank used to form the container of the disclosed subject matter, and the term “fold line” includes a line of weakness or bending formed in the surface of the container or the blank used to form the container of the disclosed subject matter.

The disclosed subject matter is generally directed to containers and methods for dispensing web material, and blanks. Containers for dispensing web material in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter generally include a base portion defining a compartment. The base portion includes a bottom panel defining a bottom of the compartment. A front base panel extends upwardly from the bottom panel to define a front of the compartment. A back panel extends from the bottom panel to define a back of the compartment. First and second base side tabs extend between the bottom panel, the front base panel, and the back panel at opposing sides thereof to define opposing sides of the compartment.

For the purpose of illustration, and not limitation, reference is made to the exemplary container 100 shown in FIGS. 1-12. Additionally, for purpose of understanding, reference is made in conjunction to the blank 200 of FIG. 13, which can be used to form the container 100 of exemplary FIGS. 1-12.

With reference to FIGS. 1-12, the container 100 includes a base portion 102 and a lid portion 104. The base portion 102 includes a bottom panel 110, front base panel 108, back panel 112, and first and second base side tabs 130, 132. The bottom panel 110 defines a bottom of the compartment 103. The compartment 103 can hold a roll 115 of web material 101 (e.g., a roll of parchment paper). As embodied herein, first and second bottom panel side tabs 133, 134 can extend from the bottom panel 110. The first and second bottom panel side tabs 133, 134 can define at least a portion of first and second base side tabs 130, 132.

The front base panel 108 extends upwardly from the bottom panel 110 to define a front of the compartment 103. As embodied herein, first and second front base panel side tabs 120, 122 can extend from respective opposing sides of the front base panel 108. The front base panel 108 can have a front base panel height H₁defined between the bottom panel 110 and a front base panel free edge 105. The front base panel height Hi can be within a range of about 1 to 6 inches, and as embodied herein can be about 1.7 inches.

The back panel 112 extends from the bottom panel 110 to define a back of the compartment 103. First and second back panel side tabs 140, 142 can extend from respective opposing sides of the back panel 112.

The container 100 includes first and second base side tabs 130, 132 extending between the bottom panel 110, the front base panel 108, and the back panel 112 at opposing sides thereof to define opposing sides of the compartment 103. As embodied herein, first and second base side tabs 130, 132 can include one or more of the first and second bottom panel side tabs 133, 134, the first and second front base panel side tabs 120, 122, and the first and second back panel side tabs 140, 142 to define the opposing sides of the compartment 103.

Additionally or alternatively, the container 100 can have first and second retainer tabs 131, 133. By way of example, and not limitation, the first and second retainer tabs 131, 133 can extend from the first and second base side tabs 130, 132, respectively, to retain the roll 115 of web material 101 within the compartment 103.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a cutter 106 can be disposed on the base portion 102. For example and as embodied herein, cutter 106 can be disposed proximate the front base panel free edge 105.

With reference to FIGS. 1-12, and as embodied herein for illustration and not limitation, the lid portion 104 can be moveable between an open position, intermediate position, dispensing position and closed position. The lid portion 104 of the container 100 includes a top panel 114 defining a top of the lid portion 104, the top panel 114 hingedly-coupled to the back panel 112. The top panel 114 can be hingedly coupled to the back panel 112 about a back panel upper edge 154. For example, the top panel 114 can extend from the back panel upper edge 154. To form a hinged connection with the lid portion 104, the back panel upper edge 154 can include score lines along its length (not shown). Alternative hinge configurations likewise can be used.

The lid portion 104 includes a front lid panel 116 extending from the top panel 114, the front lid panel 116 having a front lid panel pressure edge 158 opposite the top panel 114. The front lid panel 116 can further include a first portion 117 and a second portion 118 folded along a fold line (not shown) behind the first portion 117 to define the front lid panel pressure edge 158 along the fold line. The first portion 117 and the second portion 118 of the front lid panel 116 can be adhered together. The front lid panel 116 can have a front lid panel height H₂defined between the top panel 114 and the front lid panel pressure edge 158. The front lid panel height H₂can be within a range of about 1 to 6 inches, and as embodied herein can be about 1.75 inches.

When lowering the lid portion 104, for purpose of illustration and not limitation, the lid portion 104 can be hindgedly moveable relative to the base portion 102 between the open position as shown in FIG. 8 for access to the compartment 103, to the dispensing position as shown in FIG. 10 for simultaneously dispensing and uncurling web material 101.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the front lid panel height H₂can be greater than the front base panel height H₁. As illustrated by way of example, and not limitation, the front lid panel height H₂can be between approximately 3 percent and approximately 5 percent greater than the front base panel height H₁. Providing a front lid panel height H₂greater than the front base panel height H₁can allow the top panel 114 of lid portion 104 to rest slightly above the front base panel free edge 105 when the lid portion is in the dispensing position, and can facilitate more effective application of downward pressure onto the web material 101, as will be further described below.

According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a method of dispensing web material from a roll is provided. The method of the disclosed subject matter includes providing a container as embodied herein. The container can include any, or all of the features described above.

Additionally, the method includes disposing a roll of web material in the container in an overhand arrangement, the web material extending over a top of the roll toward the front base panel. Additionally, the method includes dispensing web material from the roll with the lid portion in the dispensing position, the web material being directed between the front lid panel pressure edge and the bottom panel, the web material being further directed between the front lid panel and the front base panel.

Methods in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter include dispensing web material 101 from a roll 115. As embodied herein, the method includes providing a container 100 in accordance an aspect of the disclosed subject matter. Further, the method includes disposing a roll 115 of web material 101 in the container 100 in an overhand or inverted arrangement as shown in exemplary FIGS. 8-11, such that the web material 101 extends over a top of the roll 115 towards the front base panel 108.

The method further includes dispensing web material 101 from the roll 115 with the lid portion 104 in the dispensing position, the web material 101 being directed between the front lid panel pressure edge 158 and the bottom panel 110, the web material 101 being further directed between the front lid panel 116 and the front base panel 108.

With reference to FIGS. 8-11, when the container 100 is provided in the open position as shown in FIG. 8, the roll 115 of web material 101 is disposed in the compartment 103 in an overhand arrangement. In the overhand arrangement, web material 101 extends over a top of the roll 115 toward the front base panel 108. A user can dispense an initial amount of web material from the roll 115 up and over the front base panel free edge 105 and cutter 106. The initial amount of web material dispensed by the user from the roll 115 can be used to grip the web material 101.

With reference to FIG. 9, the lid portion 104 of the exemplary container 100 is depicted in an intermediate position. In the intermediate position, the lid portion 104 is disposed between the open position and the dispensing position. Lid portion 104 can be rotated about the hinged connection such that the front lid panel 116 can partially extend within the compartment 103. With continued reference to FIG. 9, the front lid panel pressure edge 158 can contact a top surface of the initial amount of web material 101 dispensed from the roll 115.

With reference to FIG. 10, the lid portion 104 of the exemplary container 100 is depicted in a dispensing position. In the dispensing position, the front lid panel 116 extends into the compartment 103 along front base panel 108. Front lid panel 116 pinches the web material 101 between the front lid panel pressure edge 158 and the bottom panel 110 when the lid portion is in the dispensing position. For example, and with reference to FIG. 11, pressure can be applied to the lid portion as the web material 101 is dispensed to pinch the web material 101 between the front lid panel pressure edge 158 and the bottom panel 110. As embodied herein, the top panel 114 can optionally be labeled with an arrow, text or other symbol 117 to indicate where to apply the downward pressure to the lid portion.

Pinching the web material 101 between the front lid panel pressure edge 158 and bottom panel 110 while dispensing the web material from compartment 103 can reverse the curvature in the web material 101 as it is dispensed from the compartment 103, with the web material assuming a generally planar, straightened condition once dispensed. For example, pinching the web material 101 between the front lid panel pressure edge 158 and bottom panel 110 while dispensing the web material from compartment 103 can apply a shear force to the top surface of the web material 101. The shear force applied by front lid panel pressure edge 158 can cause the curved web material to straighten as the web material is dispensed from the roll 115. For example, application of a reverse sheer stress to web material can reduce, or eliminate the shape memory effect caused by the prolonged storage of the web material in a roll.

As embodied herein, the dispensed web material can be separated from the roll 115 using cutter 106. As described above, the dispensed web material advantageously can be uncurled and straightened with the ability to generally lie flat on an intended surface.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the dispensed web material can have a dispensed web curvature. The dispensed web curvature can be measured as a distance between a high point on the dispensed web material and a flat surface on which the dispensed web material is placed. As embodied herein, the dispensed web material can further have a length of between approximately 6 inches and approximately 60 inches.

The lid portion 104 is further movable between the open position as shown in FIG. 8, and the closed position as shown in FIG. 12. For example, after dispensing is complete the container may be placed in storage. As shown in exemplary FIG. 12, when the container 100 is in the closed position, the lid portion 104 can be disposed over the compartment 103 of the base portion 102. In the closed position, the lid portion 104 protects the roll 115 and the cutter 106 further allowing for safe transportation and storage of the web material 101. When closing the container 100, for purpose of illustration and not limitation, the front lid panel 116 can extend outside of the compartment 103 along the front base panel 108 in the closed position.

According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a blank is provided. As embodied herein, the blank can be used to form a container. The blank of the disclosed subject matter includes a base portion having a front base panel including a front base panel free edge and a front base panel fold line opposite the front base panel free edge. A bottom panel extends from the front base panel fold line to a bottom panel fold line, the bottom panel having opposing first and second bottom side fold lines. First and second bottom panel side tabs extend from the first and second bottom side fold lines, respectively. A back panel extends from the bottom panel fold line to a base-lid hinge line.

Additionally, the blank of the disclosed subject matter includes a lid portion having a top panel extending from the base-lid hinge line to a top front fold line. A first front lid panel extends from the top front fold line to a front lid panel fold line, and a second front lid panel extends from the front lid panel fold line to a front lid panel free edge.

Referring now to the blank 200 of FIG. 13, the container 100 can be formed from a base portion 202 having a bottom panel 210 and a lid portion 204 having a top panel 214. To form the base portion 202 of the container 100 from blank 200, the bottom panel 210 can include opposing front base panel and bottom panel fold lines 246, 248 and opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 264, 266. Opposing first and second bottom panel side tabs 233, 234 can extend from the bottom panel 210 along corresponding opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 264, 266. Opposing first and second retainer tabs 231, 232 can extend from the first and second bottom panel side tabs 233, 234 along corresponding opposing first and second side tab fold lines 265, 267. Each of the first and second side tab fold lines 265, 267 can include score lines along its length.

A front base panel 208 extends from the bottom panel 210 along the front base panel fold line 246. The front base panel 208 can extend from the front base panel fold line 246 to a front base panel free edge 205. Opposing first and second front base panel side tabs 220, 222 can extend from the front base panel 208 along corresponding opposing first and second front base panel side fold lines 260, 262.

A back panel 212 extends from the bottom panel 210 along the bottom panel fold line 248. The back panel 212 extends from the bottom panel fold line 248 to a base-lid hinge line 250. Opposing first and second back panel side tabs 240, 242 can extend from back panel 212 along corresponding first and second back panel side fold lines 268, 270. The base-lid hinge line 250 can include score lines along its length.

To form the lid portion 204 of the container 100 from the blank 200, the lid portion can include the top panel 214. The top panel 214 can be coextensive with the back panel 212 and extends from the base-lid hinge line 250. The top panel 214 extends from the base-lid hinge line 250 to a top front fold line 252.

A first front lid panel 216 extends from top panel 214 along the top front fold line 252. The first front lid panel 216 extends from the top front fold line 252 to a front lid panel fold line 258. The top front fold line 252 can include score lines along its length. A second front lid panel 218 extends from the first front lid panel 216 along the front lid panel fold line 258. The second front lid panel 218 extends from the front lid panel fold line 258 to a front lid panel free edge 260. When the blank 200 is formed into a container, the second front lid panel 218 can be configured to be secured to the first front lid panel 216 with adhesive, or any other securing means.

The front base panel 208 and first front lid panel 216 of the blank 200 can each define a respective width. As shown in FIG. 13, the front base panel 208 can have a front base panel width w₁defined between the front base panel free edge 205 and the front base panel fold line 246. The first front lid panel 216 can have a front lid panel width w₂defined between the top front fold line 252 and the front lid panel fold line 258.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, the front lid panel width w₂can be greater than the front base panel width w₁. For example and as embodied herein, the front lid panel width w₂is between approximately 3 percent and approximately 5 percent greater than the front base panel width w₁. By way of another example, and as embodied herein, the front base panel width w₁is approximately 1.7 inches and the front lid panel width w₂is approximately 1.75 inches. As described above, having a front lid panel width w₂greater than the front base panel width w₁can facilitate more effective application of downward pressure onto web material, once the blank 200 has been formed into a container.

The side tabs and portions of the blank 200 can be configured to be arranged in a manner to structurally support the container 100. Regarding the base portion 202 of the container, when the blank 200 is formed into the container 100 the first and second front base panel side tabs 220, 222 and the first and second back panel side tabs 240, 242 can be arranged between the first and second bottom panel side tabs 233, 234 along their inner surface. Accordingly, the container 100 can have sides of the base portion 202 defined by the first and second front base panel side tabs 220, 222, first and second back panel side tabs 240, 242, and first and second bottom panel side tabs 233, 234. These tabs and panels can be adhered to one another using adhesive, or any other securing means.

Regarding the lid portion 104 of the container, when the blank 200 is formed into the container 100, the second front lid panel 218 can be adhered to the inside surface of the first front lid panel 216 after folding along the front lid panel fold line 258. Accordingly, the container can have a front lid panel 116 defined by the first front lid panel 216 and second front lid panel 218.

The container 100 and blank 200 disclosed herein are preferably disposable, but the containers can be recycled or reused as desired. Additionally, the materials from which the container is made need not be the same throughout. The container and blank described herein can be manufactured from any suitable material, including but not limited to cardstock, pulp board, paperboard, micro-flute corrugated material, expanded polystyrene foam, oriented polystyrene (OPS), polypropylene, mineral filled polypropylene, amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET), thermoplastics, paper, recycled board, virgin board, or any other suitable material. As embodied herein, the container and blank can be manufactured from cardstock with about 18 to 22 points thickness or cardstock with a weight of about 350-450 grams per square meter. The blank of the disclosed subject matter can be retained in the assembled configuration, for example and without limitation, by adhesive bonding. Additionally or alternatively, the blank can be retained in the assembled configuration by tucking projecting portions of blank into slits provided and configured to clasp or otherwise engage such projecting portions. Additionally or alternatively, the container can be formed without the use of a blank, such as with an injection molded container. Other suitable additional or alternative retention means are within the scope of the disclosed subject matter.

It is to be recognized that the relative proportions of container 100 or blank 200 will vary according to the exact size and intended use of the container or blank. While an essentially rectangular container formed by a blank is herein described, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that any suitable shape and depth of the container and corresponding blank can be employed and the disclosed subject matter is not so limited. Other suitable shapes include cylinders, ovals, various polygons, etc., having any suitable relative proportions.

Additional exemplary container and blank configurations are provided in accordance with additional aspects of the disclosed subject matter. As described above, the various containers and blanks can reduce the curvature or curl of dispensed web material. For example, by applying a shear force to the web material as it is dispensed.

An exemplary container 300 in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter is depicted in FIGS. 14A-14B. The container 300 can dispense web material which is pre-folded on a roll 315. Pre-folded web material 301 can be folded along first and second fold lines 304, 305 in a first trifold configuration as shown in FIG. 14B. In the first trifold configuration, opposing ends 302, 303 of the web material can be symmetrically folded towards a longitudinal axis 306 of the web material such that the opposing ends 302, 303 do not overlap. With reference to FIG. 14B, the pre-folded web material 301 may be stored on the roll 315 in an overhand configuration. FIG. 15 depicts a cross-section view of the exemplary container 300.

In accordance with another aspect, pre-folded web material 301 can be prepared by the folding opposing ends 302, 303 along first and second fold lines 304, 305 to create the pre-folded web material 301 in a second trifold configuration as shown in FIGS. 16A-16H. FIGS. 16A-16D are a planar view of the web material being folded in the second trifold configuration in which opposing ends 302, 303 overlap each other. FIGS. 16E-16H are a perspective view of the web material being folded in the second trifold configuration in which opposing ends 302, 303 overlap each other.

Pre-folding web material before rolling the web material can reduce the tendency of the web material to curl when dispensed. For example, first and second fold lines 304, 305 in the pre-folded web material 301 can act as structural ribs in the web material once dispensed, which can reduce the tendency of the pre-folded web material 301 to curl during dispensing.

According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a blank 380 is provided as shown in FIG. 17. As embodied herein, the blank 380 can be used to form the container 300.

Referring now to the blank 310 of FIG. 17, the container 300 can be formed from a front base panel 308, a bottom panel 310, a back panel 312, a top panel 314, and a front lid panel 316. The bottom panel 310 can include opposing front base panel and back panel fold lines 346, 348 and opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 364, 366. Opposing first and second bottom panel side tabs 333, 334 can extend from the bottom panel 310 along corresponding opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 364, 366.

A front base panel 308 extends from the bottom panel 310 along the front base panel fold line 346. The front base panel 308 can extend from the front base panel fold line 346 to a front base panel free edge 305. Opposing first and second front base panel side tabs 320, 322 can extend from the front base panel 308 along corresponding opposing first and second front base panel side fold lines 360, 362.

A back panel 312 extends from the bottom panel 310 along the bottom panel fold line 348. The back panel 312 extends from the bottom panel fold line 348 to a base-lid hinge line 350. Opposing first and second back panel side tabs 340, 342 can extend from back panel 312 along corresponding first and second back panel side fold lines 368, 370. The base-lid hinge line 350 can include score lines along its length.

A top panel 314 can be coextensive with the back panel 312 and extends from the base-lid hinge line 350. The top panel 314 extends from the base-lid hinge line 350 to a top front fold line 352.

A front lid panel 316 extends from top panel 314 along the top front fold line 352. The front lid panel 316 extends from the top front fold line 352 to a front lid panel free edge 354. The front base panel 308 and the front lid panel 316 of the blank 300 can each define a respective width. For purpose illustration not limitation, the front base panel 308 can have a front base panel width w1 defined between the front base panel free edge 305 and the front base panel fold line 346. As embodied herein, w1 can be approximately 1.67 inches. The front lid panel 316 can have a front lid panel width w2 defined between the top front fold line 352 and the front lid panel free edge 354. As embodied herein, w1 can be approximately 1.19 inches.

An exemplary container 400 in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter is depicted in FIGS. 18A-19G. The container 400 can have a lid portion 404 and a base portion 405. Base portion 405 can have a front base panel 401 and bottom panel 402 provided with an access recess 403. Access recess 403 can be defined in the front base panel 401 and bottom panel 402 and can provide access for a user to grip an end of the web material 406 for dispensing the web material. Lid portion 404 can have first and second locking tabs 410, 412. In FIGS. 18A-18C, the container 400 is depicted in a dispensing position, with the container 400 inverted, having the lid portion 404 of the container 400 located beneath the base portion 405. With reference to FIG. 18B, a web material 406 can be dispensed from the container between front base panel 401 and the lid portion 404 while the container 400 is in the dispensing position. As described further herein, the lid portion 404 can pinch the web material 406 against the front base panel 401 as the web material 406 is dispensed, which can apply a shear force to the web material 406 and reduce the curvature or curl of the web material 406 once dispensed.

With reference to FIGS. 19A-19G, cross-sectional views of the exemplary container 400 are depicted illustrating use of the exemplary container 400. With reference to FIG. 19A, the container 400 is depicted with the lid portion 404 in a closed position. As embodied herein, the lid portion 404 can be disposed within the base portion 405 in the closed position. With reference to FIGS. 19B-19D, the lid portion 404 can be moved from the closed position of FIG. 19A to an open position for access to a roll 415 of web material 406 disposed in compartment 407. With reference to FIG. 19D, a portion of the web material 406 can be dispensed between the base portion 405 and the lid portion 404 with the lid portion 404 in the open position. With reference to FIG. 19E, the lid portion 404 can be moved to a dispensing position with the lid portion 404 outside of the base portion 405 and the web material 406 disposed between the lid portion 404 and the base portion 405. As embodied herein, and with reference to FIGS. 19E and 19F, first and second locking tabs 410, 412 can be folded into the compartment to lock the lid portion 404 in a closed position.

With reference to FIG. 19G, the container 400 can be inverted with the lid portion 404 in the dispensing position and web material disposed between the lid portion 404 and the base portion 405. Web material 406 can be dispensed from the container 400 with the container inverted. For example, web material can be disposed upward and outwardly from between the lid portion 404 and the base portion 405. As embodied herein, and with reference to FIG. 19G, the web material 406 can be dispensed at an angle of approximately 90 degrees from the lid portion 404. Pressure can be applied to the lid portion 404 to pinch the web material 406 between the lid portion 404 and the base portion 405 as the web material is dispensed. Pinching the web material 406 between the lid portion 404 and the base portion 405 can apply a shear force to the web material 406 as the web material is dispensed, which can cause the web material to straighten as the web material is dispensed from the roll 415. For example, application of a reverse sheer stress to web material can reduce, or eliminate the shape memory effect caused by the prolonged storage of the web material in a roll. As embodied herein the lid portion 404 can include a double layer of material to increase the rigidity of the lid portion and facilitate application of additional shear stress to the web material as the web material is dispensed. Significant pressure can be applied by a user squeezing downward on the top panel 402 of container 400 to pinch the web material 406.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, an exemplary blank 500 is provided as shown in FIG. 20. As embodied herein, the blank 500 can be configured to form the container 400. The blank 500 can include an access recess 503 formed in a bottom panel 502 and a front base panel 501.

Referring now to the blank 500 of FIG. 20, the container 400 can be formed from a front base panel 501, a bottom panel 502, a back panel 504, a top panel 505, a first front lid panel 506, and a second front lid panel 507. The bottom panel 502 can include opposing front base panel and back panel fold lines 518, 520 and opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 536, 538. Opposing first and second bottom panel side tabs 564, 566 can extend from the bottom panel 502 along corresponding opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 536, 538 to opposing third and fourth bottom side fold lines 544, 546. The opposing first and second bottom side panel side tabs 564, 566 can include first and second slits 582, 584, respectively. Opposing retainer side tabs 568, 570 can extend from the first and second bottom panel side tabs 564, 566 along corresponding opposing third and fourth bottom side fold lines 544, 546.

A front base panel 501 extends from the bottom panel 502 along the front base panel fold line 518. The front base panel 501 can extend from the front base panel fold line 518 to a front base panel free edge 510. Opposing first and second front base panel side tabs 560, 562 can extend from the front base panel 501 along corresponding opposing first and second front base panel side fold lines 532, 534.

A back panel 504 extends from the bottom panel 502 along the bottom panel fold line 520. The back panel 504 extends from the bottom panel fold line 520 to a base-lid hinge line 522. Opposing first and second back panel side tabs 572, 574 can extend from back panel 504 along corresponding first and second back panel side fold lines 540, 542. The base-lid hinge line 522 can include score lines along its length.

A top panel 505 can be coextensive with the back panel 504 and extends from the base-lid hinge line 522. The top panel 505 extends from the base-lid hinge line 522 to a top front fold line 524.

A first front lid panel 506 extends from top panel 505 along the top front fold line 524 to a front lid fold line 526. The first front lid panel 506 can include opposing first and second front lid side fold lines 548, 550. Opposing first and second front lid panel side tabs 576, 578 can extend from the first front lid panel 506 along corresponding opposing first and second front lid side fold lines 548, 550 to opposing third and fourth front lid side fold lines 552, 554. Opposing first and second front lid locking side tabs 580, 582 extend from the first and second front lid panel side tabs 576, 578 along the third and fourth front lid side fold lines 552, 554. A second front lid panel 507 extends from the first front lid panel 506 along the front lid fold line 526 to a front lid free edge 528. The opposing first and second front lid locking side tabs 580, 582 can be inserted into the slits 582, 584 in bottom panel side tabs when folded together.

An exemplary container 600 in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter is depicted in FIGS. 21A-24. The container can have a lid portion 610 with a top panel 607 and front lid panel 606. The front lid panel 606 may have a tapered edge 603. As embodied herein, the tapered edge 603 can define a crease 604 in web material 605 as the web material is dispensed from the container. As embodied herein, front lid panel 606 can be disposed outside compartment 612 for dispensing web material from the compartment. As described above, crease 604 in the web material can act as a structural rib in the dispensed web material, which can reduce the tendency of the web material 605 to curl once dispensed.

In accordance with another aspect, and with reference to the exemplary container depicted in FIG. 22, lid portion 710 can include a blunt tip 703 with first and second chamfered corners 704, 705. First and second chamfered corners 704, 705 can generate first and second creases 714, 715 in the web material 705 during dispensing. FIG. 23 depicts a cross-section view of the exemplary container 600. For purpose of illustration not limitation, as embodied herein, a cutter 630 is disposed on top of its front base panel. Alternatively, depending on the dispensed materials, the containers do not need to have cutters.

According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, an exemplary blank 800 is provided as shown in FIG. 24. As embodied herein, the blank 800 can be used to form the container 600. The blank 800 can have a tapered tip 864 extending from a front lid panel 810.

Referring now to the blank 800 of FIG. 24, the container 600 can be formed from a front base panel 802, a bottom panel 804, a back panel 806, a top panel 808, and a front lid panel 810. The bottom panel 804 can include opposing front base panel and back panel fold lines 814, 816 and opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 830, 832. Opposing first and second bottom panel side tabs 854, 856 can extend from the bottom panel 804 along corresponding opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 830, 832.

A front base panel 802 extends from the bottom panel 804 along the front base panel fold line 814. The front base panel 802 can extend from the front base panel fold line 814 to a front base panel free edge 812. Opposing first and second front base panel side tabs 850, 852 can extend from the front base panel 802 along corresponding opposing first and second front base panel side fold lines 826, 828.

A back panel 806 extends from the bottom panel 804 along the bottom panel fold line 816. The back panel 806 extends from the bottom panel fold line 816 to a base-lid hinge line 818. Opposing first and second back panel side tabs 858, 860 can extend from back panel 806 along corresponding first and second back panel side fold lines 834, 836. The base-lid hinge line 818 can include score lines along its length.

A top panel 808 can be coextensive with the back panel 806 and extends from the base-lid hinge line 818. The top panel 808 extends from the base-lid hinge line 818 to a top front fold line 820. A front lid panel 810 extends from top panel 808 along the top front fold line 820. The front lid panel 810 extends from the top front fold line 820 to a front lid panel free edge 822.

An exemplary container 900 in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter is depicted in FIGS. 25A-26B. The container 900 can have a dowel 910 within the compartment 903. The dowel 910 can apply a shear force to the web material during dispensing. For example, a roll of web material can be disposed in the compartment 903 in an overhand configuration, and the web material can be guided around the dowel 910 within the compartment. As described above, application of shear force to the web material during dispensing can reduce the tendency of the web material to curl once dispensed. With reference to FIGS. 26A-26B, lid portion 920 can extend outside compartment 903. For purpose of illustration not limitation, as embodied herein, a cutter 930 is disposed on top of the front base panel. Alternatively, depending on the dispensed materials, the containers do not need to have cutters.

According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, an exemplary blank 1000 is provided as shown in FIG. 27. As embodied herein, the blank 1000 can be used to form the container 900.

Referring now to the blank 1000 of FIG. 27, the container 900 can be formed from a front base panel 1002, a bottom panel 1004, a back panel 1006, a top panel 1008, and a front lid panel 1010. The bottom panel 1004 can include opposing front base panel and back panel fold lines 1014, 1016 and opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 1028, 1030. Opposing first and second bottom panel side tabs 1054, 1056 can extend from the bottom panel 1004 along corresponding opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 1028, 1030. Opposing first and second bottom panel side tabs 1054, 1056 can include built-in holes 1074, 1076 to contain a dowel pin.

A front base panel 1002 extends from the bottom panel 1004 along the front base panel fold line 1014. The front base panel 1002 can extend from the front base panel fold line 1014 to a front base panel free edge 1012. Opposing first and second front base panel side tabs 1050, 1052 can extend from the front base panel 1002 along corresponding opposing first and second front base panel side fold lines 1024, 1026. Opposing first and second front base panel side tabs 1050, 1052 can include built-in holes 1070, 1072 to contain a dowel pin.

A back panel 1006 extends from the bottom panel 1004 along the bottom panel fold line 1016. The back panel 1006 extends from the bottom panel fold line 1016 to a base-lid hinge line 1018. Opposing first and second back panel side tabs 1058, 1060 can extend from back panel 1006 along corresponding first and second back panel side fold lines 1032, 1034. The base-lid hinge line 1018 can include score lines along its length.

A top panel 1008 can be coextensive with the back panel 1006 and extends from the base-lid hinge line 1018. The top panel 1008 extends from the base-lid hinge line 1018 to a top front fold line 1020. A front lid panel 1010 extends from top panel 1008 along the top front fold line 1020. The front lid panel 1010 extends from the top front fold line 1020 to a front lid panel free edge 1022.

An exemplary container 1100 in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed subject matter is depicted in FIGS. 28A-30B. The container 1100 can have a front base panel 1130 with an extended slit or channel 1120 passing through the front base panel 1110. Extended slit or channel 1120 may have first and second blunt corners 1122, 1124 to engage a web material 1101 as it is fed through the extended slit or channel 1120. First and second blunt corners 1122, 1124 can generate first and second creases 1126, 1128 in the web material 1102 during dispensing. As described above, creasing web material during dispensing can create structural ribs along the length of the dispensed web material which can reduce the tendency of the web material 1101 to curl once dispensed.

Front base panel 1130 can have a reinforced layer 1140 to provide increased structural integrity to the front base panel during dispensing as shown in cross-sectional side view of FIG. 30B. For purpose of illustration not limitation, as embodied herein, a cutter 1130 is disposed on top of the front base panel in FIGS. 30A and 30B. Alternatively, depending on the dispensed materials, the containers do not need to have cutters.

According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, an exemplary blank 1200 is provided as shown in FIG. 31. As embodied herein, the blank 1200 can be used to form the container 1100. Poly reinforcement 1240 can provide additional strength to the front base panel, as described above.

Referring now to the blank 1200 of FIG. 31, the container 1100 can be formed from a front base panel 1202, a bottom panel 1204, a back panel 1206, a top panel 1208, and a front lid panel 1210. The bottom panel 1204 can include opposing front base panel and back panel fold lines 1214, 1216 and opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 1228, 1230. Opposing first and second bottom panel side tabs 1254, 1256 can extend from the bottom panel 1204 along corresponding opposing first and second bottom side fold lines 1228, 1230.

A front base panel 1202 extends from the bottom panel 1204 along the front base panel fold line 1214. The front base panel 1202 can extend from the front base panel fold line 1214 to a front base panel free edge 1212. Opposing first and second front base panel side tabs 1250, 1252 can extend from the front base panel 1202 along corresponding opposing first and second front base panel side fold lines 1224, 1226.

A back panel 1206 extends from the bottom panel 1204 along the bottom panel fold line 1216. The back panel 1206 extends from the bottom panel fold line 1216 to a base-lid hinge line 1218. Opposing first and second back panel side tabs 1258, 1260 can extend from back panel 1206 along corresponding first and second back panel side fold lines 1232, 1234. The base-lid hinge line 1218 can include score lines along its length.

A top panel 1208 can be coextensive with the back panel 1206 and extends from the base-lid hinge line 1218. The top panel 1208 extends from the base-lid hinge line 1018 to a top front fold line 1220. A front lid panel 1210 extends from top panel 1208 along the top front fold line 1220. The front lid panel 1210 extends from the top front fold line 1220 to a front lid panel free edge 1222.

An exemplary container 1300 in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed subject matter is depicted in FIG. 32. Container 1300 can have a front base panel 1310 provided with an inwardly facing crescent flap 1320 to scorch the paper upwards to reverse the curl in the center of the dispensed material, for example, a paper material.

In addition to the specific embodiments claimed below, the disclosed subject matter is also directed to other embodiments having any other possible combination of the dependent features claimed below and those disclosed above. As such, the particular features presented in the dependent claims and disclosed above can be combined with each other in other manners within the scope of the disclosed subject matter such that the disclosed subject matter should be recognized as also specifically directed to other embodiments having any other possible combinations. Thus, the foregoing description of specific embodiments of the disclosed subject matter has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosed subject matter to those embodiments disclosed.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the method and system of the disclosed subject matter without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosed subject matter. Thus, it is intended that the disclosed subject matter include modifications and variations that are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

CONTAINERS, BLANKS, AND METHODS FOR DISPENSING WEB MATERIAL

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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Provisional Applications (1)