Multiple portion packaging tray and method of making same

Abstract

A multiple portion packaging tray comprising a plurality of pliable polymer containers configured in an array, each comprising a receptacle and an integral peripheral flange extending from the receptacle, the flanges integrally connecting adjacent containers to one another along perforation lines comprising a series of alternating openings and land areas wherein the land areas are sized so that the containers are separated by tearing apart the flanges without propagating cracks across the flanges. The method of making a multiple portion packaging tray in a former comprising a form station and a separate trim station comprising the steps of thermoforming the multiple portion packaging tray and cutting the perimeter and perforation lines of the multiple portion packaging tray to create a series of alternating openings and land areas.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to plastic containers for use in packaging. In particular, this invention relates to packaging comprising an array of separably connected plastic containers that are easily separated and methods of making such containers. BACKGROUND OF INVENTION [0002] Use of single serve plastic containers is well known in the food product industry. These single serve containers are sometimes manufactured and sold in a multiple portion packaging tray comprising an array of separable containers. The containers are generally connected to one another along their flanges and may be broken apart by breaking the connection at the flanges. These containers work well when made of a relatively brittle plastic. Use of less brittle or more pliable polymers makes the containers more difficult to break apart. For some foods, brittle plastics, such as polystyrene, cannot provide the necessary protection and a high moisture barrier polymer is needed, such as polypr...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005] More particularly, this invention comprises perforation lines in the flanges as a means to easily separate the containers. The perforation lines comprise a series of alternating openings and land areas wherein the land areas are sized so that the containers are easily separated by tearing apart the flanges without propagating cracks across the flanges or compromising the containers' integrity and at the same time are robust enough to survive normal handling in a distribution process with out separating incidentally.

Problems solved by technology

Use of less brittle or more pliable polymers makes the containers more difficult to break apart.

For some foods, brittle plastics, such as polystyrene, cannot provide the necessary protection and a high moisture barrier polymer is needed, such as polypropylene or polyethylene.

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