BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present disclosure relates generally to a display tray and its supporting elements, and specifically to a display tray systems providing improved visibility and stacking abilities.
2. Description of Related Art
Pallet displays are used in club stores such as Costco, BJ's, and Sam's Club since a large amount of product can be merchandised in one location without having to be re-stocked often. These pallet displays typically incorporate a full depth “X” or similar divider insert that separates each tray into quadrants and provides critical stacking support for the multiple tray layers. However, the “X” dividers tend to obstruct the customer's view of the product when the primary customer facing side of the display has been emptied and product in the remaining quadrants are difficult to see or cannot be seen entirely by the customer because the insert blocks their view. Further, the dividers cannot be removed without affecting the integrity of the tray stack and the trays are hard to or impossible to rotate by the staff in order to show what product is located in the other quadrants.
Thus a clear need exists for display trays having improved stacking abilities and visibility to various sections of the tray from various vantage points. The present disclosure provides a solution for this need.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A display tray formed of a continuous blank having a plurality of hingedly coupled panels and sub-panels is disclosed. The display tray includes a first sidewall, defined at least partially by a first panel, a front wall, defined by at least partially by a second panel, hingedly attached to the first panel sidewall, a second sidewall, defined at least partially by the first panel, sidewall a rear wall defined at least partially by a third panel hingedly attached to the first panel for adjoining the display tray to a second display tray a sidewall, a first corner at a junction of the front wall and the first sidewall, and a second corner at a junction of the front wall and the second sidewall, wherein each of the first and second corners are defined by at least three hingedly attached sub-panels of the second panel.
It is also conceived that each of the corners can include a main upright having a triangular cross section. Each of the corners can include a vertical sub-panel adjacent to the main upright. Each of the corners can include an overhang defining a horizontal plane. Each of the corners can be defined by an inner layer comprising three panels arranged in a convex direction toward an inner portion of the tray, and by an outer layer comprising two panels arranged in a convex direction toward the inner portion of the tray. A base of each of the corners can include an aperture for receiving a portion of a corner of a second display tray. Each of the corners can include a vertical protrusion for connecting to a second display tray. It is also conceived that a floor of the tray can include at least a pair of apertures for receiving a support structure of a second display tray. The rear wall can include at least a slit for receiving a joining or a support member for coupling the display tray to a second tray.
A joining member for coupling adjacent display trays is also disclosed. The joining member is formed of a continuous blank having a plurality of hingedly coupled panels and sub-panels including a first support sheet, defined at least partially by a first panel and vertically aligned, a second support sheet, defined at least partially by a second panel, vertically aligned, and hingedly coupled to the first support sheet, a first plurality of support wings hingedly attached to the first support sheet across respective vertical hinge lines, wherein each wing of the first plurality of wings is defined by at least a sub-panel of the first panel, and a second plurality of support wings hingedly attached to the second support sheet across respective vertical hinge lines, wherein each wing of the second plurality of wings is defined by at least a sub-panel of the second panel.
It is also considered that a planar sheet can be used for connecting the first support sheet and the second support sheet. The first support sheet and the second support sheet can be at least partially split at a corresponding centerline. The first support sheet and the second support sheet can each include a vertical tab for coupling to a second display tray.
It is also considered that each of the pluralities of wings can include at least one panel coupled thereto across a vertical hinge line. The at least one panel can join a corresponding wing and include a plurality of panels forming a conduit. The conduit can include a triangular cross section. The at least one panel can include a locking feature for locking the panel to its respective wing.
A continuous blank for forming a display tray is also disclosed. The blank includes a first panel, having a first plurality of sub-panels, extended along a longitudinal axis defining at least a portion of a joining wall of the tray when erected, a second panel, having a second plurality of subpanels, hingedly coupled to the first panel, and defining a floor of the tray and at least portions of two side walls of the tray when erected, a third panel hingedly coupled to the second panel for defining at least a portion of the outer wall of the tray, wherein the third panel includes a first plurality of sub-panels hingedly attached to each other and hingedly attached to a first end of the third panel for defining a first corner post when erected and a second plurality of sub-panels hingedly attached to each other and hingedly attached to a second end of the third panel for defining a second corner post when erected.
Each of the sub-panels of the plurality of sub-panels can extend across the longitudinal axis. A first end of one of the sub-panels of the plurality of sub-panels can define a gap with a side edge of the second panel. At least one of the sub-panels can include a tab to provide locking support to a second display tray, wherein the tab can be defined by two adjacent sub-panels of the plurality of sub-panels. The tab can extend across the longitudinal axis away from the second panel or the tab can project from one of the sub-panels in a longitudinal direction.
It is also considered that one of the sub-panels of the plurality of sub-panels is L-shaped. A first sub-panel of the plurality of sub-panels can be attached to a second sub-panel along a longitudinal hinge line.
A continuous blank including panels and sub-panels for forming a support member for a display tray is also disclosed. The blank includes a first panel extended along a longitudinal axis including a first end sub-panel hingedly attached to a first end of the first panel and a second end sub-panel hingedly attached to a second end of the first panel, a second panel hingedly coupled to the first panel including a first end subpanel hingedly attached to the first end of the second panel and a second end sub-panel hingedly attached to the second end of the second panel. Each sub-panel can include at least two hingedly attached sections, wherein one of the at least two sections includes a locking feature for coupling to a mating feature of a corresponding panel. The locking feature can be on an end section of the at least two sub-panels of each corresponding panel, or the locking feature is on an intermediate section of the at least two sub-panels of each corresponding panel.
It is also considered that a central panel between the first panel and the second panel for defining a roof of the support member when erected. The central panel can be bisected into two equal halves and each of the panels can be bisected into two equal halves. The first end sub-panel and the second end sub-panel of the first panel can be hingedly attached and wherein the first end sub-panel and the second end sub-panel of the second panel are hingedly attached. The central panel can include at least one locking means for locking to a second display tray above the display tray of the support member.
These and other features of the systems and methods of the subject disclosure will become more readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
So that those skilled in the art to which the subject disclosure appertains will readily understand how to make and use the devices and methods of the subject disclosure without undue experimentation, embodiments thereof will be described in detail herein below with reference to certain figures, wherein:
FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray system according to the disclosure;
FIG. 1B is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray system according to the disclosure;
FIG. 1C is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray system according to the disclosure showing a window between the middle support and the joining wall;
FIG. 2 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a pair of trays of the tray system of FIG. 1A;
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pair of trays of the tray system of FIG. 1A showing an attachment of the joining member;
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a single tray of the tray system of FIG. 1A;
FIG. 4 is a plan view of a blank for constructing the single tray of FIG. 3B;
FIG. 5A is a front view of a tray of an exemplary embodiment of a tray system according to the disclosure;
FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the system of FIG. 5A;
FIG. 5C is a side view of a tray system of FIG. 5A showing a window between the middle support and the joining wall;
FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pair of trays of the tray system of FIG. 5A showing an attachment of the joining member;
FIG. 6B is a Side view of an exemplary embodiment of a pair of trays of the tray system of FIG. 5A;
FIG. 7 is a plan view of a blank for constructing the single tray of FIG. 6B;
FIG. 8 is a plan view of a blank for constructing the joining member of FIGS. 1A and 5A;
FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray system according to the disclosure;
FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the tray system of FIG. 9A with a joining member being placed in place;
FIG. 9C is a perspective view of the tray system of FIG. 9A with an alternative joining member being placed in place;
FIG. 9D is a perspective view of a tray system of FIG. 9A with the alternative joining member of FIG. 9C;
FIG. 9E is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a tray system employing a divider showing in 9D;
FIG. 10A is a perspective view of an open corner post with stacking tabs;
FIG. 10B is a plan view of a blank for constructing the corner post of FIG. 10A;
FIG. 10C is a perspective view of an open corner post without stacking tabs;
FIG. 10D is a plan view of a blank for constructing the corner post of FIG. 10C;
FIG. 10E is a perspective view of a closed corner post with stacking tabs;
FIG. 10F is a plan view of a blank for constructing the closed corner post of FIG. 10E;
FIG. 10G is a perspective view of an “L” corner post:
FIG. 10H is a plan view of a blank for constructing the corner post of FIG. 10G;
FIG. 10I is a perspective view of a five-panel “complex” corner post;
FIG. 10J is a plan view of a blank for constructing the “complex” corner post of FIG. 10I;
FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a tray;
FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the tray of FIG. 11A showing a reverse side of the tray;
FIG. 11C is a plan view of the a blank for constructing the tray of FIG. 11A;
FIGS. 12A and 12B are perspective views of the trays of FIG. 1A showing being filled with products;
FIG. 13A is a plan view of a blank for constructing a tray having an open post corner;
FIG. 13B is a tray that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 13A having an open post corner;
FIG. 14A is a plan view of a blank for constructing a tray having a triangular corner post;
FIG. 14B is a tray that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 14A with a triangular corner post;
FIG. 15A is a plan view of a blank for constructing another tray having a triangular corner post;
FIG. 15B is a tray that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 15A having triangular corner post with a tab in a second location;
FIG. 16A is a plan view of a blank for constructing a tray with overhanging corners;
FIG. 16B is a tray that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 16A having bent and overhanging corners;
FIG. 17A is a plan view of a blank for constructing another tray with overhanging corners;
FIG. 17B is a tray that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 17A having bent and overhanging corners;
FIG. 18A is a plan view of a blank for constructing a tray with overhanging corners;
FIG. 18B is a tray that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 18A;
FIG. 19A is a plan view of a blank for constructing another tray with overhanging corners;
FIG. 19B is a tray that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 19A;
FIG. 20A is a plan view of a blank for a support member having a flat top;
FIG. 20B is a support member that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 20A having a flat top connecting the supporting wings;
FIG. 21A is a plan view of a blank for a support member having a flat top with multiple support wings;
FIG. 21B is a support member that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 21A having multiple support wings hingedly attached to the support wings;
FIG. 22A is a plan view of a blank for a support member having a flat top with triangular support wings;
FIG. 22B is a support member that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 22A having support wings with a triangular cross-section;
FIG. 23A is a plan view of a blank for another support member having a flat top with triangular support wings;
FIG. 23B is a support member that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 23A having triangular support wings with an alternate locking feature;
FIG. 24A is a plan view of a blank for a support member having a flat top with rectangular support wings;
FIG. 24B is a support member that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 24A with rectangular support wings;
FIG. 25A is a plan view of a blank for a two-layer support member having support wings;
FIG. 25B is a support member that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 25A;
FIG. 26A is a plan view of a blank for a two-layer support member having triangular support wings;
FIG. 26B is a support member that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 26A;
FIG. 27A is a plan view of a blank for a two-layer support member having rectangular support wings;
FIG. 27B is a support member that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 27A;
FIG. 28A is a plan view of a blank for a split support member having connected support wings;
FIG. 28B is a support member that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 28A;
FIG. 29A is a plan view of a blank for a connected support member having connected support wings;
FIG. 29B is a support member that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 29A;
FIG. 30A is a tray that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 18A;
FIG. 30B is a support member tray that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 25A;
FIG. 30C shows four trays f FIG. 30A coupled together with a support member of FIG. 30B;
FIG. 31A is a tray that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 19A having overhanging corners;
FIG. 31B is a support member tray that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 25A;
FIG. 31C shows two trays of FIG. 31A coupled together with a support member of FIG. 31B;
FIG. 32A shows two trays of FIG. 31A coupled together with a support member of FIG. 21B;
FIG. 32B shows four trays of FIG. 31A coupled together with a support member of FIG. 21B;
FIG. 33A shows two trays of FIG. 13B coupled together with a support member of FIG. 21B;
FIG. 33B shows four trays of FIG. 13B coupled together with a support member of FIG. 21B;
FIG. 34 shows four trays of FIG. 13B coupled together with a support member of FIG. 24B;
FIG. 35 shows four trays of FIG. 13B coupled together with a support member of FIG. 22B;
FIG. 36A is a tray of FIG. 31A having overhanging corners;
FIG. 36B is a support member of FIG. 28B;
FIG. 36C shows four trays of FIG. 36A coupled together with a support member of FIG. 36B;
FIG. 37A is a tray of FIG. 13B constructing a tray having an open post corner;
FIG. 37B is a support member of FIG. 29B;
FIG. 37C shows four trays of FIG. 37A coupled together with a support member of FIG. 37B;
FIG. 38A is a tray of FIG. 31A having overhanging corners;
FIG. 38B is a support member of FIG. 28B; and
FIG. 38C shows two trays of FIG. 38A coupled together with a support member of FIG. 38B.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Reference will now be made to the drawings wherein like reference numerals identify similar structural features or aspects of the subject disclosure. For purposes of explanation and illustration, and not limitation, a partial view of an exemplary tray system in accordance with the disclosure is shown in FIG. 1 and is designated generally by reference character 100. Other embodiments of the tray system, methods of constructing trays in accordance with the disclosure, or aspects thereof, are provided in FIGS. 2-38C, as will be described. The tray systems presented and described below improve product visibility in a display unit common in Club and other large format point of purchase applications, and improve stacking performance and reduce cost to use.
FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views of an exemplary embodiment of a tray system 100 according to the disclosure. The tray system 100 shows a first tray 102 having three outer walls 104, 106, 108, a first corner 110 which can have a first height (H1) at a junction of two of the outer walls 104/106, a second corner 112 having at a junction of two other outer walls 106/108, a joining wall 114 defining an inner border with a second tray 116, a third corner 118 at a junction of the joining wall 114 and outer wall 104, a fourth corner 120 at a junction of the joining wall 114 and outer wall 108. The second tray 116 similarly includes three outer walls 122, 124, 126, a first corner 128, a second corner 130, a joining wall 132, a third corner 134, and a fourth corner 136. A joining member 138 coupled to the joining wall of the first tray 114 and coupled to the joining wall of the second tray 132 to couple the first 102 and second 116 trays and provide vertical support to the tray system 100 when other trays loaded with product are stacked on top. It is also considered that four trays can be combined with a joining member joining them all together and supported by a single joining member or a system of joining members.
FIG. 1C is a side view the tray system 100. The joining member 138 includes a flat upper wall 142 which can be level to the height of the first corners 110 and second corners 112 of the first tray 102. The upper wall 142 of the saddle shaped joining member 138 joins a first support 144 and a second support 146. The first support 144 and the second support 146 each straddle the joining walls 114/132 of each of the trays and are partially within the first tray 102 and partially within the second tray 116. Each of the supports 146/144 includes a pair of support wings 146a/146b and 144a/144b respectively hingedly attached thereto. The supports wings 146a/146b and 144a/144b allow for better stability and flexibility in filling the trays with product. The support wings 146a/146b and 144a/144b can be positioned at a variety of angles in order to accommodate packages of various shapes and sizes while still providing support against vertical pressures. Joining member 138 can be self-locking or pre-glued. It is also considered that the joining member can join four quarter trays together using various slit combinations. The supports 146/144 can also include rolled-up 3D self-locked or glued supports that will give further vertical support.
FIG. 1C further shows a window 140 between the joining wall 114 and joining member 138. An underside of the upper wall 146 of the joining member 138 and the upper edge 146 of the joining walls 114/132 of the first tray 114 and the second tray 132 define a top and a bottom of the window 140. The window 140 allows a user to see from one side of the tray system to the other. Not only can a customer see around the joining member 138 to see what is in the back of the tray, but the customer can also see through the joining member 138 to see what is on the other side of the tray, and if needed extract product from that side over the abutting tray walls. Another feature improving sight lines across the tray is having the joining walls 114/132 along with the third corner 118 and fourth corner 120 which are shown below the heights of the first corner 110 and second corner 112.
As seen in FIG. 2, the upper wall 142 includes a plurality of tabs 148 which couple to slots 150 of a floor 152 of a tray 154 above the first tray 102 and the second tray 116. The tabs 148 provide further stability to the tray system seen in FIGS. 1A-1C. The joining member 138 extends 60% or less into the width of each of the trays This combination allows for the desired staging of products shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B.
FIGS. 3A and 3B show a single tray 102 of the tray system of FIGS. 1A-1C. The tray 102 is coupled with the joining member 138 by matching the slots of the joining member 160 with the slots 162 of the joining walls 114/132. FIG. 4 is a plan view of a blank 400 for constructing the single tray shown in FIG. 3B. The blank 400 includes a first panel 402 which defines the joining wall 114 of tray 102. A second panel 406 is hingedly attached to the first panel 402 which defines a floor 152 of tray 102 and outer walls 104 and 108 of tray 102. A third panel 408 is hingedly attached to the second panel 406 and defines the third outer wall 106 of tray 102. The third panel 408 includes a first foursome 410 of sections extended across the third panel 408 hingedly attached to each other and to a first end 412 of the third panel 408. The first foursome 410 defines a first corner post 110 of tray 102. A second foursome of sections 414 at a second end 416 define the second corner post 112. It should be understood to one of ordinary skill in the art that multiple variations and combinations of corners. Details of possible corners are shown and discussed in FIGS. 10A-10J.
The second panel 406 includes a first tab 418 hingedly attached at a first end 420 and a second tab 422 hingedly attached at a second end 424. Each tab includes a respective fold-out portion 422a/418a to partially detach from the respective tab 422/418 and fold inwards in order to define a portion of a respective outer wall 104/108 and to support the outer wall. The second panel 406 is generally wider than the first panel 402, and the second panel 406 is generally wider than the third panel 408. However, it should be understood that various configurations and dimensional combinations can be used to create a desired tray. The third panel 408 includes a fold-out tab 426 hingedly attached at a first edge 428 to partially detach from the third panel 408 and fold inwards in order to define a portion of outer wall 406 and to provide added thickness to outer wall 406. Panel 408 also defines a window or lowest point of visibility of the product within the tray.
FIG. 5A-6B show another possible features of the previously discussed tray system. It should be understood that the tray system 500 shown here includes all of the features previously discussed but adds height to the third corner post 518 and the fourth corner post 520. The height of the third corner 518 and fourth corner 520 can be equal to the height of the first corner 510 and the second corner 512. In sacrificing visibility and lines of sight the higher corner posts 518 allows for greater weight support in the tray system 500. The added stability also allows the joining member 538 to forgo tabs that get placed within the above tray.
FIG. 7 shows a plan view of a blank 700 for constructing the single tray of FIGS. 5A-6B. Similarly to the previously discussed blank 400, the blank 700 includes a first panel 702 which defines the joining wall 514 of tray 502. A second panel 706 is hingedly attached to the first panel 702 which defines a floor 552 of tray 502 and outer walls 504 and 508 of tray 502. A third panel 708 is hingedly attached to the second panel 706 and defines the third outer wall 506 of tray 502. The first panel 702 and third panel 708 each includes a respective foursome 710/711 of sections extended across the respective panels hingedly attached to each other and to a first end 712. The first foursomes 710/711 define the first corner post 510 and third corner post 518 of tray 502. A second foursome of sections 714/715 at a second end 716 define the second corner post 512 and fourth corner post 520.
FIG. 8 is a plan view of a blank 800 for constructing the joining member previously shown in FIGS. 1A and 5A. The blank 800 includes a first panel 802 forming the first support 144 of tray 102, a first end tab 804 hingedly attached to the first end 806 forming the first support wing 144a and a second end tab 808 hingedly attached to the second end 810 forming the second support wing 144b, a second panel 812 hingedly attached to the first panel defining the upper wall 142 of joining member 138 of tray 102. A third panel 814 includes a first end tab 816 defining the first support wing 146a hingedly attached to the first end 818 and a second end tab 820 defining the second support wing 146b hingedly attached to the second end 822. The second panel 812 includes a plurality of tabs 824 which bend in and out of the page to create the tabs 148 of tray 102. The first panel 802 and the second panel 814 each include a respective slot 802a/814a partially bisecting the respective panel in order to couple to the joining walls of tray 102.
FIG. 9A-9E are perspective views of an exemplary embodiment of a tray system according to the disclosure showing a variety of joining members being placed. FIG. 9B shows a two panel joining member 938 being folded over the joining walls 914 of the trays 902 and 904. Joining member 938 further includes a slit 908 placed in the middle of the panels not reaching the end, that slides over the joining walls 914 of trays 904 and 902. FIGS. 9C and 9D show joining member being placed over the joining walls 914. FIG. 9E shows a tray stack, with each tray having the joining member 938.
FIGS. 10A-10J shows a variety of corner posts that can be used with each of the tray systems discussed previously. FIG. 10A is a perspective view of an open corner post 1010 with stacking tab 1012 and FIG. 10B is a plan view of a blank 1020 for constructing the corner post of FIG. 10A. The outermost panel 1022 with the stacking tab 1012 folds inwards and attaches to the portion of the panel 1024 responsible for creating an outer wall of the tray in an inner-to-inner relationship. FIG. 10C is a perspective view of an open corner post 1032 and FIG. 10D is a plan view of a blank for constructing the corner post of FIG. 10C. Similarly, the outermost panel 1042 folds inwards and attaches to the portion of the panel 1044 responsible for creating an outer wall of the tray. FIG. 10E shows a perspective view of a closed corner post 1060 with stacking tabs 1062 and FIG. 10F is a plan view of a blank 1064 for constructing the corner post of FIG. 10E wherein the outermost panel 1066 folds inward and attaches to the main panel 1068, in an outer to inner relationship. FIG. 10G shows a perspective view of an “L” corner post 1070 and FIG. 10H is a plan view of a blank 1072 for constructing the corner post of FIG. 10G. Here the two outer most panels 1074 and 1076 both fold inward to form an inner-to-inner side relationship with the inner most panel 1078 and the main panel 1079. FIG. 10I shows a perspective view of a five-panel corner post 1080 and FIG. 10J is a plan view of a blank 1082 for constructing the corner post 1080 of FIG. 10I. This corner post 1080 employs five panels with the middle panels 1084 being in mitered position.
FIGS. 11a and 11B are perspective views of a tray 1100. The tray 1100 is similar to tray 102 shown previously, but all of the folding is secured by tabs being placed into slots as a locking feature. FIG. 11C is a plan view of a blank for constructing the tray of FIGS. 11A and 11B. The tabs 1102 are meant to be placed into slots 1104 when the blank is folded in a manner similar to that of blank 102.
Referring now to FIGS. 12A and 12B, a staging of products is shown with bagged products being placed within a display tray previously shown and described in FIGS. 11A-11C, and a support member previously shown and described in FIGS. 5A-5C. The products are shown surrounding the support member, as well as the support member covering a number of products.
Referring now to FIGS. 13A and 13B, a plan view of a blank 1300 for constructing a tray having a five-panelpost corner and a display tray 1350 that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 13A are respectively shown. The display tray 1350 formed of the continuous blank 1300 includes a plurality of hingedly coupled panels and sub-panels. The display tray 1350 includes a first sidewall 1352. The first sidewall 1352 can have a first height (H1). The display tray 1350 has a front wall 1354 which is partially defined by a second panel 1304 of the blank 1300 which is hingedly, but indirectly, attached to the first panel 1302 and has a second height (H2) which can be equal to the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1352. A second sidewall 1356, defined at least partially by the first panel 1302 and a third panel 1306, has a third height (H3), when erected can equal to the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1352. A rear wall 1358 is defined at least partially by a third panel 1306 and is hingedly attached to the first panel 1302. The first panel 1302 is extended along a longitudinal axis 1301, and the second panel 1304, hingedly coupled to the first panel 1302, also defines a floor 1357 of the tray 1350. The third panel 1306 is hingedly coupled to the second panel 1304. The rear wall 1358 can be used adjoining the display tray 1300 to a second display tray. The rear wall 1358 includes a fourth height (H4), which is shown as greater than the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1352.
Referring further to FIGS. 13A and 13B display tray 1350 includes a first corner 1360 having a fifth height (H5) which can be greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1358 at a junction of the front wall 1354 and the first sidewall 1352. A second corner 1362 includes a sixth height (H6) which is also shown as greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1358 at the junction of the front wall 1354 and the second sidewall 1356. The first and second corners 1360/1362 are each defined by at four hingedly attached sub-panels 1308(a-e) and 1310(a-e), respectively, of the second panel 1304. Each of the corners 1360/1362 are open corners facing the inner portion of the tray 1350. Each of the corners 1360/1362 include a tabs 1364/1366 respectively for joining and locking into a respective corner of a tray placed above tray 1350. The tabs 1364/1366 are each located on the respective subpanel 1308a/b/1310a/b which are bent at the crease line between respective member a/b to create the corner.
Referring now to FIGS. 14A and 14B, a plan view of a blank 1400 for constructing a tray having a triangular post corner and a display tray 1450 that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 14A are respectively shown. The display tray 1450 formed of the continuous blank 1400 includes a three of hingedly coupled panels 1402, 1404, and 1406. The first panel 1402 includes two sub panels 1403a and 1403b. The third panel 1406 includes five subpanels on opposite sides, 1408(a-e) and 1410(a-e). The display tray 1450 includes a first sidewall 1452, defined at least partially by a first panel 1402. The first sidewall 1452 has a first height (H1). The display tray 1450 has a front wall 1454 which is partially defined by a second panel 1404 of the blank 1400 which is hingedly attached to the first panel 1402 and has a second height (H2) can be equal to the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1452. A second sidewall 1456, defined at least partially by the first panel 1402, has a third height (H3), when erected can be equal to the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1452. A rear wall 1458 is defined at least partially by a third panel 1406 and is hingedly attached to the first panel 1402. The rear wall 1458 can be used adjoining the display tray 1400 to a second display tray. The rear wall 1458 includes a fourth height (H4), which can be greater than the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1452. The first panel 1402 further includes a pair of tabs 1402a and 1402b extending along the longitudinal axis and pointing in opposite directions. Tabs 1402a and 1402b help lock the tray 1450 by being locked under respective panels 1404a and 1404b when the tray is erected.
Referring further to FIGS. 14A and 14B display tray 1450 includes a first corner 1460 having a fifth height (H5) greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1458 at a junction of the front wall 1454 and the first sidewall 1452. A second corner 1462 includes a sixth height (H6) which can be also greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1458 at the junction of the front wall 1454 and the second sidewall 1456. The first and second corners 1460/1462 are each defined by at five hingedly attached sub-panels 1408(a-e) and 1410(a-e), respectively, of the second panel 1404. The sub panels wrap around to lock respective panels ‘e’ to panel ‘c’ in order to create a corner with a triangular cross section, with each respective subpanel ‘d’ having a vertical tab protruding up to connect to a display tray above the display tray 1450. These tabs help stabilize the structure when stacked with other display trays.
Referring now to FIGS. 15A and 15B, a plan view of a blank 1500 for constructing a self-locking tray having an triangular post and a self-locking display tray 1550 that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 15A are respectively shown. The display tray 1550 formed of the continuous blank 1500 includes a three hingedly coupled panels 1502, 1504, and 1506. The first panel 1502 includes two sub panels 1503a and 1503b. The third panel 1506 includes five subpanels on opposite sides, 1508(a-e) and 1510(a-e). The display tray 1550 includes a first sidewall 1552, defined at least partially by a first panel 1502. The first sidewall 1552 has two heights (H1a and H1b). The display tray 1550 has a front wall 1554 which is partially defined by a second panel 1504 of the blank 1500 which is hingedly attached to the first panel 1502 and has a second height (H2) equal to the first height (H1a) of the first sidewall 1552. A second sidewall 1556, defined at least partially by the first panel 1502, has two heights (H3a and H3b), when erected equal to the first heights (H1a and H1b) of the first sidewall 1552. The higher section (H1b and H3b) allow for more strength, while the lower sections (H1a and H3a) allow for more visibility to the shoppers. A rear wall 1558 is defined at least partially by the third panel 1506 and is hingedly attached to the first panel 1502. The rear wall 1558 can be used adjoining the display tray 1500 to a second display tray. The rear wall 1558 includes a fourth height (H4), which can be greater than the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1552.
Referring further to FIGS. 15A and 15B display tray 1550 includes a first corner 1560 having a fifth height (H5) which can be greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1558 at a junction of the front wall 1554 and the first sidewall 1552. A second corner 1562 includes a sixth height (H6) which can also greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1558 at the junction of the front wall 1554 and the second sidewall 1556. The first and second corners 1560/1562 are each defined by the five hingedly attached sub-panels 1508(a-e) and 1510(a-e), respectively, of the second panel 1504. The sub panels wrap around to lock respective panels ‘e’ to panel ‘c’ in order to create a corner with a triangular cross section, with each respective subpanel ‘d’ having a vertical tab protruding up to connect to a display tray above the display tray 1550. Having more bends within the corner allows for a stronger support.
Referring now to FIGS. 16A and 16B, a plan view of a blank 1600 for constructing a tray having an overhanging corner and a display tray 1650 that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 16A are respectively shown. The two display trays 1650 are each formed of the continuous blank 1600 includes a three of hingedly coupled panels 1602, 1604, and 1606. The first panel 1602 includes three sub panels on each side 1603(a-c) and 1605(a-c). The third panel 1606 includes three subpanels on opposite sides, 1608(a-c) and 1610(a-c). The display tray 1650 includes a first sidewall 1652, defined at least partially by a first panel 1602. The first sidewall 1652 has a first height (H1). The display tray 1650 has a front wall 1654 which is partially defined by a second panel 1604 of the blank 1600 which is hingedly attached to the first panel 1602 and has a second height (H2) which can be equal to the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1652. A second sidewall 1656, defined at least partially by the first panel 1602, has a third height (H3), when erected can be equal to the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1652. A rear wall 1658 is defined at least partially by a third panel 1606 and is hingedly attached to the first panel 1602. The rear wall 1658 can be used adjoining the display tray 1600 to a second display tray. The rear wall 1658 includes a fourth height (H4), which can be greater than the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1652.
Referring further to FIGS. 16A and 16B display tray 1650 includes a first corner 1660 having a fifth height (H5) which can be greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1658 at a junction of the front wall 1654 and the first sidewall 1652. A second corner 1662 includes a sixth height (H6) which can be also greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1658 at the junction of the front wall 1654 and the second sidewall 1656. A third corner 1664 includes a seventh height (H7) at the junction of the rear wall and the second sidewall 1656. A fourth corner 1666 includes an eighth height (H8) at the junction of the rear wall and the first sidewall 1652. The corners 1660/1662/1664/1666 are each defined by three hingedly attached sub-panels 1603/1605/1608/1610(a-c). The middle sub-panel of the three sub-panels includes a tab for locking to a second display tray above display tray 1650, and the inner most sub-panel (a) includes an L-shape for bending into the inner portion of the display tray 1650 in order to provide further stacking support. Each middle sub-panel (b) includes a tab 1612 for coupling with a second display tray in order to provide further stacking support.
Referring now to FIGS. 17A and 17B, a plan view of a blank 1700 for constructing a tray having an overhanging post corner and a display tray 1750 that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 17A are respectively shown. The two display trays 1750 shown are each formed of the continuous blank 1700 includes a three of hingedly coupled panels 1702, 1704, and 1706. The third panel 1706 includes two sub panels on each side 1703(a/b) and 1705(a/b) extending along the longitudinal axis. The first panel 1702 includes individual subpanels 1708/1710 on respective ends thereof.
The display tray 1750 includes a first sidewall 1752, defined at least partially by a first panel 1702. The first sidewall 1752 includes two heights (H1a and H1b). The display tray 1750 has a front wall 1754 which is partially defined by a second panel 1704 of the blank 1700 which is hingedly attached to the first panel 1702 and has a second height (H2) which can be equal to the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1752. A second sidewall 1756, defined at least partially by the first panel 1702, has two heights (H3a and H3b), when erected can be equal to the corresponding heights of the first sidewall 1752. A rear wall 1758 is defined at least partially by a third panel 1706 and is hingedly attached to the first panel 1702. The rear wall 1758 can be used adjoining the display tray 1700 to a second display tray. The rear wall 1758 includes a fourth height (H4), which can be greater than the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1752.
Referring further to FIGS. 17A and 17B display tray 1750 includes a first corner 1760 having a fifth height (H5) which can be greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1758 at a junction of the front wall 1754 and the first sidewall 1752. A second corner 1762 includes a sixth height (H6) which can be also greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1758 at the junction of the front wall 1754 and the second sidewall 1756. The corners 1760/1762 are each defined by two hingedly attached sub-panels (1703a/b and 1705a/b). The lower sub-panel (a) of the two sub-panels includes a tab 1770 for locking to an indentation 1772 of second display tray above display tray 1750. The second panel 1704 includes sub-panels 1704a/b on each end thereof having an L-shape for bending into the inner portion of the display tray 1750 in order to provide further stacking support to the display tray.
Referring now to FIGS. 18A and 18B, a plan view of a blank 1800 for constructing a tray having an overhanging corner and a display tray 1850 that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 18A are respectively shown. The display trays 1850 is formed of the continuous blank 1800 includes a three of hingedly coupled panels 1802, 1804, and 1806. The first panel 1802 includes three sub panels on each side 1803(a-c) and 1805(a-c) extending across the longitudinal axis. The third panel 1806 includes three subpanels on opposite sides, 1808(a-c) and 1810(a-c) also extending across the longitudinal axis.
The display tray 1850 includes a first sidewall 1852, defined at least partially by a first panel 1802. The first sidewall 1852 has a first height (H1). The display tray 1850 has a front wall 1854 which is partially defined by a second panel 1804 of the blank 1800 which is hingedly attached to the first panel 1802 and has a second height (H2) which can be equal to the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1852. A second sidewall 1856, defined at least partially by the first panel 1802, has a third height (H3), when erected can be equal to the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1852. A rear wall 1858 is defined at least partially by a third panel 1806 and is hingedly attached to the first panel 1802. The rear wall 1858 can be used adjoining the display tray 1800 to a second display tray. The rear wall 1858 includes a fourth height (H4), which can be greater than the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1852. The rear wall 1858 is defined by a sub-panel 1812 of the second panel 1804.
Referring further to FIGS. 18A and 18B display tray 1850 includes a first corner 1860 having a fifth height (H5) which can be greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1858 at a junction of the front wall 1854 and the first sidewall 1852. A second corner 1862 includes a sixth height (H6) which can be greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1858 at the junction of the front wall 1854 and the second sidewall 1856. A third corner 1864 includes a seventh height (H7) at the junction of the rear wall and the second sidewall 1856. A fourth corner 1866 includes an eighth height (H8) at the junction of the rear wall and the first sidewall 1852. The overhang 1870 of each of the corners of each of the corners is defined by a diagonally cut portion 1816 of the subpanels 1812 and 1814 of the second panel.
Referring now to FIGS. 19A and 19B, a plan view of a blank 1900 for constructing a self-locking tray having an overhanging post corner and a self-locking display tray 1950 that is constructed from the blank of FIG. 19A are respectively shown. The display tray 1950 shown is formed of the continuous blank 1900 includes a three of hingedly coupled panels 1902, 1904, and 1906. The first panel 1902 includes individual sub panels on each side 1903 and 1905 extending across the longitudinal axis. The third panel 1906 includes two subpanels 1908(b-c) and 1910(b-c) on each end of the third panel 1906 extending along the longitudinal axis, with subpanels 1908a and 1910c being hingedly attached to the middle panel 1904.
The display tray 1950 includes a first sidewall 1952, defined at least partially by a first panel 1902. The first sidewall 1952 includes two heights (H1a and H1b). The display tray 1950 has a front wall 1954 which is partially defined by a second panel 1904 of the blank 1900 which is hingedly attached to the first panel 1902 and has a second height (H2) which can be equal to the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1952. A second sidewall 1956, defined at least partially by the first panel 1902, has two heights (H3a and H3b), when erected can be equal to the corresponding heights of the first sidewall 1952. A rear wall 1958 is defined at least partially by a third panel 1906 and is hingedly attached to the first panel 1902. The rear wall 1958 can be used adjoining the display tray 1900 to a second display tray. The rear wall 1958 includes a fourth height (H4), which can be greater than the first height (H1) of the first sidewall 1952.
Referring further to FIGS. 19A and 19B display tray 1950 includes a first corner 1960 having a fifth height (H5) which can be greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1958 at a junction of the front wall 1954 and the first sidewall 1952. A second corner 1962 includes a sixth height (H6) which can be greater than the fourth height (H4) of the rear wall 1958 at the junction of the front wall 1954 and the second sidewall 1956. The corners 1960/1962 are each defined by three hingedly attached sub-panels of the third panel 1906. The overhang 1970 of each of the corners of each of the corners is defined by the diagonally cut portions 1916 of the third panel 1906.
Each of the trays described above provide improved product visibility in a display unit common in Club and other large format point of purchase applications, and improve stacking performance and reduce cost to use. Each of the trays described above can be coupled to other trays with the aid of a support member as described below. The support member help hold each of the trays together and provide stacking assistance to tray placed above.
Referring now to FIGS. 20A and 20B, the figures show is a plan view of a blank 2000 for a support member having a flat top and the support member 2050 that is constructed from the blank 2000 of FIG. 20A. The joining member is used for coupling adjacent display trays, were described previously and formed of the continuous blank 2000 which is made up of two hingedly coupled panels 2002 and 2004 and sub-panels 2002a/2002b and 2004a/2004b with an intermediate panel 2003 placed between panels 2002 and 2004. When erected, the support member 2050 includes a first support sheet 2052 which is vertically aligned, a second support sheet 2054 which is vertically aligned, and a flat horizontal sheet 2056 hingedly connecting the first support sheet 2052 and the second support sheet 2054. Each of the support sheets 2052/2054 includes a two support wings 2058/2060 and 2062/2064 hingedly attached to the respective support sheet 2052/2054 across vertical hinge lines. Each of the support sheets 2052/2054 includes a partial cutout 2066/2068 at the base for straddling two adjacent rear walls of adjacent display trays discussed above. The support member 2050 is able to provide support vertically to display trays placed above and horizontally to hold a pair of display trays together.
Referring now to FIGS. 21A and 21B, the figures show is a plan view of a blank 2100 for a support member having a flat top and the support member 2150 that is constructed from the blank 2100 of FIG. 21A. The joining member is formed of the continuous blank 2100 which is made up of two hingedly coupled panels 2102 and 2104 with an intermediate panel 2103 placed between panels 2102 and 2104.
When erected, the support member 2150 includes a first support sheet 2152 which is vertically aligned, a second support sheet 2154 which is vertically aligned, and a flat horizontal sheet 2156 hingedly connecting the first support sheet 2152 and the second support sheet 2154. The flat horizontal sheet 2156 is narrower than each of the support sheets 2152/2154. Each of the support sheets 2152/2154 includes a two support wings 2158/2160 and 2162/2164 hingedly attached to the respective support sheet 2152/2154 across vertical hinge lines. Each of the support wings is made up of two subpanels (a/b) that are hingedly attached to each other. The hingedly attached subpanels of each support wing provide further lateral and vertical support to a stack of display trays. Each of the support sheets 2152/2154 includes a partial cutout 2166/2168 at the base for straddling two adjacent rear walls of adjacent display trays discussed above.
Referring now to FIGS. 22A and 22B, the figures show is a plan view of a blank 2200 for a support member having a flat top and the support member 2250 that is constructed from the blank 2200 of FIG. 22A. The joining member is formed of the continuous blank 2200 which is made up of two hingedly coupled panels 2202 and 2204 with an intermediate panel 2203 placed between panels 2202 and 2204.
When erected, the support member 2250 includes a first support sheet 2252 which is vertically aligned, a second support sheet 2254 which is vertically aligned, and a flat horizontal sheet 2256 hingedly connecting the first support sheet 2252 and the second support sheet 2254. The flat horizontal sheet 2256 includes four tabs 2272 for locking into a display tray placed above the support member 2250, further improving lateral support of the structure. Each of the support sheets 2252/2254 includes a two support wings 2258/2260 and 2262/2264 hingedly attached to the respective support sheet 2252/2254 across vertical hinge lines. Each of the support wings is made up of two subpanels (a/b) that are hingedly attached to each other. The outer subpanel (a) of each support wing includes a locking key 2268 that fits into an opening 2270 of its respective support sheet 2254, resulting in an upright support with a triangular cross-section. Each of the support sheets 2252/2254 includes a slit 2280/2282 at the base for straddling two adjacent rear walls of adjacent display trays discussed above.
Referring now to FIGS. 23A and 23B, the figures show is a plan view of a blank 2300 for a support member having a flat top and the support member 2350 that is constructed from the blank 2300 of FIG. 23A. The joining member is formed of the continuous blank 2300 which is made up of two hingedly coupled panels 2302 and 2304 with an intermediate panel 2303 placed between panels 2302 and 2304.
When erected, the support member 2350 includes a first support sheet 2352 which is vertically aligned, a second support sheet 2354 which is vertically aligned, and a flat horizontal sheet 2356 hingedly connecting the first support sheet 2352 and the second support sheet 2354. The horizontal sheet 2356 includes four tabs 2372 for locking into a display tray placed above the support member 2350, further improving lateral support of the structure. The horizontal sheet in this case includes four obtuse angles (a), to allow for easier folding and erecting, specifically such that support wings 2358/2360 and 2362/2364 do not contact the edges of the intermediate panel 2303. Each of the support sheets 2352/2354 includes a two support wings 2358/2360 and 2362/2364 hingedly attached to the respective support sheet 2352/2354 across vertical hinge lines. Each of the support wings is made up of three subpanels (a-c) that are hingedly attached to each other. The outer subpanel (a) of each support wing includes a locking key 2368 that is pressed in and fits into an opening 2370 of its respective support sheet 2354 and into an openings 2374 of the horizontal sheet 2356, resulting in an upright support with a triangular cross-section with the outer subpanel positioned flush against a corresponding support sheet 2352/2354. Each of the support sheets 2352/2354 includes a slit 2366/2368 at the base for straddling two adjacent rear walls of adjacent display trays discussed above.
Referring now to FIGS. 24A and 24B, the figures show is a plan view of a blank 2400 for a support member having a flat top and the support member 2450 that is constructed from the blank 2400 of FIG. 24A. The joining member is formed of the continuous blank 2400 which is made up of two hingedly coupled panels 2402 and 2404 with an intermediate panel 2403 placed between panels 2402 and 2404.
When erected, the support member 2450 includes a first support sheet 2452 which is vertically aligned, a second support sheet 2454 which is vertically aligned, and a flat horizontal sheet 2456 hingedly connecting the first support sheet 2452 and the second support sheet 2454. The horizontal sheet 2456 includes four tabs 2472 for locking into a display tray placed above the support member 2450, further improving lateral support of the structure. The horizontal sheet in this case includes four obtuse angles (a). Each of the support sheets 2452/2454 includes a two support wings 2458/2460 and 2462/2464 hingedly attached to the respective support sheet 2452/2454 across vertical hinge lines. Each of the support wings is made up of four subpanels (a-d) that are hingedly attached to each other. The outer subpanel (a) of each support wing includes a locking key 2468 that fits into an opening 2470 of its respective support sheet 2454 and into an openings 2474 of the horizontal sheet 2456, resulting in an upright support with a rectangular cross-section with the outer subpanel positioned flush against a corresponding support sheet 2452/2454. Each of the support sheets 2452/2454 includes a slit 2466/2468 at the base for straddling two adjacent rear walls of adjacent display trays discussed above.
Referring now to FIGS. 25A and 25B, the figures show is a plan view of a blank 2500 for the support member 2550 of FIG. 25B. The joining member is used for coupling adjacent display trays, were described previously and formed of the continuous blank 2500 which is made up of two panels 2502 and 2504 hingedly directly to each other coupled and sub-panels 2502a/2502b and 2504a/2504b, and without an intermediate panel placed between panels 2502 and 2504. When erected, the support member 2550 includes a first support sheet 2552 which is vertically aligned and a second support sheet 2554 which is vertically aligned. Each of the support sheets 2552/2554 includes a two support wings 2558/2560 and 2562/2564 hingedly attached to the respective support sheet 2552/2554 across vertical hinge lines. Each of the support sheets 2552/2554 includes a partial cutout 2566/2568 at the base for straddling two adjacent rear walls of adjacent display trays discussed above. The support member 2550 is able to provide support vertically to display trays placed above and horizontally to hold a pair of display trays together.
Referring now to FIGS. 26A and 26B, the figures show is a plan view of a blank 2600 for the support member 2650 of FIG. 26B. The joining member is formed of the continuous blank 2600 which is made up of two hingedly coupled panels 2602 and 2604.
When erected, the support member 2650 includes a first support sheet 2652 which is vertically aligned and a second support sheet 2654 which is vertically aligned. Each of the support sheets 2652/2654 include a two support wings 2658/2660 and 2662/2664 hingedly attached to the respective support sheet 2652/2654 across vertical hinge lines. Each of the support wings is made up of three subpanels (a-c) that are hingedly attached to each other. The outer subpanel (a) of each support wing includes a locking key 2668 that fits into an opening 2670 of the inner subpanel (c), resulting in an upright support with a triangular cross-section. Each of the support sheets 2652/2654 includes a slit 2666/2668 at the base for straddling two adjacent rear walls of adjacent display trays discussed above.
Referring now to FIGS. 27A and 27B, the figures show is a plan view of a blank 2700 for a support member and the support member 2750 that is constructed from the blank 2700 of FIG. 27A. The joining member is formed of the continuous blank 2700 which is made up of two hingedly coupled panels 2702 and 2704.
When erected, the support member 2750 includes a first support sheet 2752 which is vertically aligned and second support sheet 2754 which is vertically aligned. Each of the support sheets 2752/2754 includes a two support wings 2758/2760 and 2762/2764 hingedly attached to the respective support sheet 2752/2754 across vertical hinge lines. Each of the support wings is made up of five subpanels (a-e) that are hingedly attached to each other. The outer subpanel (a) of each support wing includes a locking key 2768 that fits into an opening 2770 the innermost subpanel (e), resulting in an upright support with a rectangular cross-section with the outer subpanel positioned flush against a corresponding support sheet 2752/2754. Each of the support sheets 2752/2754 includes a slit 2770/2772 at the base for straddling two adjacent rear walls of adjacent display trays discussed above.
Referring now to FIGS. 28A and 28B, the figures show is a plan view of a blank 2800 for a support member 2850 that is constructed from the blank 2800 of FIG. 28A having two enclosed cavities 2870 and 2872. The joining member is formed of the continuous blank 2800 which is made up of two hingedly coupled panels 2802 and 2804 with an intermediate panel 2803 placed between panels 2802 and 2804. The intermediate panel 2803 fully split down the middle by a slit 2812 bisecting the intermediate panel 2803 into two portions (a/b). The center of the intermediate panel 2803 also includes a rectangular cutout 2805. Each of the panels 2802 and 2804 also include rectangular cutouts 2808 in their respective centers and are bisected by respective slits 2810 which are connected to the slit 2812 of the intermediate panel. Each of the panels 2802 and 2804 include two subpanels (a/b). The subpanels a/b are hingedly connected to each other and are hingedly connected to their respective panels 2802/2804 forming a “C”-shape on each respective end of the blank 2800.
When erected, the support member 2850 includes a front wall 2852 and a back wall 2854 each including a partial slit 2856/2858 for straddling walls of adjacent display trays discussed above. The front wall 2852 and the back wall 2854 are defined by the two portions 2803a/2803b of the intermediate panel of the blank 2800. The support member 2850 further includes a first sidewall 2856 and a second sidewall 2858 which connect the front wall 2852 and back wall 2854. Each of the sidewalls 2856/2858 are defined by the panels 2802 and 2804 of the blank 2800. A central double wall 2860 connects the sidewalls 2856/2858 at their respective midpoints and creates the two cavities 2870 and 2872 within the perimeter defined by the sidewalls 2856/2858, the front wall 2852, and the back wall 2854. The central double wall 2860 is defined by the subpanels 2802a/b and 2804a/b. The central double wall 2860 is also split in the center, allowing the support member 2850 to straddle two display trays.
Referring now to FIGS. 29A and 29B, the figures show is a plan view of a blank 2900 for a support member 2950 that is constructed from the blank 2900 of FIG. 29A having two enclosed cavities 2970 and 2972. The joining member is formed of the continuous blank 2900 which is made up of two hingedly coupled panels 2902 and 2904 with an intermediate panel 2903 placed between panels 2902 and 2904, and end panel 2905 hingedly coupled to the panel 2904 and an end tab 2907 hingedly coupled to panel 2902. The center of the intermediate panel 2903 and end panel 2905 include rectangular cutouts 2911 and 2913 respectively extending along the length of the blank and the panels 2902 and 2904 also include rectangular cutouts 2908 in their respective centers extending along the width of the blank 2900. The panels 2902 and 2904 are fully bisected on one edge (a) and hingedly attached at a second edge (b).
When erected, the support member 2950 includes a front wall 2952 and a back wall 2954 each including a partial slit 2956/2958 for straddling walls of adjacent display tray discussed above. The front wall 2952 and the back wall 2954 are defined by panel 2904 of the blank 2900. A central double wall 2960 connects the sidewalls at their respective midpoints and creates the two cavities 2970 and 2972 within the perimeter defined by the sidewalls 2980 and 2982, the front wall 2952, and the back wall 2954. The central double wall 2960 is defined by the panel 2902 of the blank 2900. The wall 2960 is partially split in the center, allowing the support member 2950 to straddle two display trays.
Referring now to FIGS. 30A-30C, four trays 3002 that are also shown in FIG. 18B are coupled by a pair of support members 3004 that don't include a flat top that were also shown in FIG. 25B form a system 3000 for displaying product in a Club format. The benefit of this format is the ability to see around the support to the edges of the rear tray, allowing the system to be set up in any direction. Referring now to FIGS. 31A-31C, two trays 3102 that are also shown in FIG. 19B are coupled by a pair of support members 3104 that were also shown in FIG. 25B form a system 3100 for displaying product in a Club format. Referring now to FIGS. 32A and 32B, two trays 3202 that are also shown in FIG. 18B are coupled by support member 3204 that were also shown in FIG. 20B form a system 3200 are shown in FIG. 32A; four trays 3202 that are shown in FIG. 18B are coupled by two support members 3204 that were shown in FIG. 20B form a system 3250 are shown in FIG. 32B. Referring now to FIG. 33A, two trays 3302 of FIG. 13B coupled together with a support member 3304 of FIG. 21B, and FIG. 33B shows four trays 3302 of FIG. 13B coupled together with two support members 3304 of FIG. 21B. Referring now to FIG. 34, shows four trays 3402 of FIG. 13B coupled together with a single support members 3404 of FIG. 24B. Referring now to FIG. 35, shows four trays 3502 of FIG. 13B coupled together with a single support members 3504 of FIG. 22B.
Referring now to FIGS. 36A-36C, two trays 3602 that are also shown in FIG. 31A are coupled by a pair of support members 3604 that include two internal cavities that were also shown in FIG. 28B form a system of trays 3600. Referring now to FIGS. 37A-37C, four trays 3702 that are also shown in FIG. 13B are coupled by a single support member 3704 that include two internal cavities that were also shown in FIG. 29B form a system 3700. Referring now to FIGS. 38A-37C, four trays 3802 that are also shown in FIG. 31B are coupled by a single support member 3804 that include two internal cavities that were also shown in FIG. 28B form a system of trays 3800.
The methods and systems of the present disclosure, as described above and shown in the drawings, provide for a tray system and components thereof that allow for better stacking of trays and visibility within the trays. While the apparatus and methods of the subject disclosure have been shown and described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that changes and/or modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the subject disclosure.
Patent Application
20220257011
