Reusable packaging

Abstract

An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a reusable product package. The reusable product package utilizes a slot and tab mechanism to hold the product package in its closed position, while also allowing the tabs to be removed from the slots to open the package. The slot and tab mechanism can make the product package inexpensive to manufacture versus other reusable solutions. Disclosed embodiments provide reliable, reusable containers that are also very environmentally friendly.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 715,693, filed Sep. 9, 2005; to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 716,037, filed Sep. 8, 2005; and to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 328,801, filed Jan. 9, 2006. The entirety of each of these patent applications is hereby incorporated by reference herein and made part of this specification.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to product packaging. More specifically, some embodiments provide for a reusable retail product package that can be manufactured efficiently and may be opened and closed to store products before and / or after use. [0004] 2. Description of the Related Art [0005] One type of packaging, a blister pack, consists of thermoformed plastic shells with cardboard. An example of this type of package is shown in U.S. Design Patent No. D438,1854. The cardboard ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010] One aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a reusable product package with a closure mechanism to allow relatively inexpensive manufacture. In some embodiments, a reusable packaging advantageously includes a substantially flat backing having at least one slot sized to receive a tab, and a cover having at least one cavity formed therein, such that the cavity and backing may come together to create a product-enclosing space. The cover can have an edge portion substantially surrounding the at least one cavity and at least one tab on the edge portion. The at least one tab can be adapted to fit into the at least one slot of the backing portion to help hold the cover and backing in proximity, preferably preventing access to the product-enclosing space.

[0013] Embodiments disclosed in this application provide for packaging that solves many of the problems encountered in the past. For example, some embodiments are inexpensive to manufacture and highly attractive. Furthermore, some embodiments provide high impact point-of-sale marketing. Various plastic materials can be used in accordance with the disclosed embodiments, including recycled and / or virgin plastics. The disclosed inventions provide for superior quality and environmentally favorable packaging with unique visual appeal.

Problems solved by technology

While many manufacturers use product packaging to draw attention to a product and provide a potential purchaser with information, this may create a bulky product storage container.

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