Tear-open baking container

Abstract

This document describes a baking container that has one or more score lines to facilitate removal from and separation from baked food. The baking container has side walls and a flat bottom surface. One or more score lines can extend downward along the height of the side walls and across a part or all of the flat bottom surface. Score lines with uniform spacing can form strips, and the strips can have pull tabs to easily tear the side walls. The strips can be reinforced using cords or bands. The score lines can be formed by perforating or weakening areas of the baking container.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 713,294, filed on Aug. 1, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a baking container having a structure configured to tear and / or separate a portion of the baking container to facilitate removal of baked goods contained therein. Background Art

[0004] The "Background Art" description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work done by the presently named inventors within the scope of the description in this Background Art section, and aspects of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted to be prior art against the present invention.

[0005] In the baking of wet, formless doughs and batters, oven-applicable pans and dishes are used to provide shape and support to the finished baked goods. While these doughs and batters may be added in direct contact with these pans and dishes, one may alternatively add the dough or batter to a lining made of various materials (usually paper) placed within the baking ware. These linings (also referred to as baking paper) provide several advantages for baking and serving.

[0006] First, these linings facilitate removal of the baked goods from the pan because the linings tend not to adhere to the pan. Additionally, if the batter or dough is baked within the lining, the cleaning of the pan is kept to a minimum. Alternatively, some linings may be able to stand on their own without the need for support on both sides.

[0007] Second, the baking linings provide an outer packaging based on the baked goods, thus allowing for easy transportation and minimizing breakage. For some baked goods, the baking linings may reduce the amount of drying and better maintain freshness. Additionally, the baking linings allow handling of the baked goods without direct contact with the food until needed.

[0008] Third, because the baking linings can be colored or formed into different shapes, they provide a decorative style to the baked goods. The baking linings can easily carry different patterns, graphics, and advertisements as details.

[0009] Finally, the baking liner provides a means for consuming the baked food. A handheld baked good, such as a muffin or cupcake, can be held on one side through the baking liner and consumed from the opposite side. Alternatively, the baking liner can be separated from both sides of the baked good and be flat, as in a small plate used to provide an eating surface or to hold crumbs. For larger baked goods, such as cake bars, the baking liner can provide a cutting surface to a dull knife or serving utensil. For baked goods of any size, the partially consumed food can be re-wrapped with the baking liner.

[0010] To impart some of the above advantages, baked food may often adhere to the baking liner. Removing the baking liner without deforming the baked good typically involves pinching the sidewall and pulling away from the center. However, this step only separates a portion of the baking liner until its sides squeeze the baked good. Thus, another location on the sidewall must be pinched and pulled, and sometimes even another location, until the baking liner can be removed without damaging or tearing large chunks of the baked item.

[0011] Additionally, some baking liners are overfilled and the upper edge of the sidewall is buried in the cake or topping ingredients, making it difficult to directly pull from the upper edge to remove the liner. In such cases, a person may be prompted to pinch and pull from the upper portion of the sidewall. This is especially true in the case of a grooved sidewall, where the indentation at the upper portion of the sidewall is deeper and easier to pinch than the shallower indentation at the bottom portion of the sidewall. However, pinching and pulling from the upper edge of the sidewall often pulls away a portion of the overhanging cake and topping ingredients, resulting in a mess.

[0012] For people with different levels of manual dexterity skills, such as young children, it may be too difficult for them to successfully remove the packaging on their own. Even with assistance, the time taken to remove a standard baking liner can be significant. For example, parents removing the packaging from several cupcakes at a young child's birthday party may not have the luxury of time to carefully separate the packaging from the cakes.

[0013] In view of the foregoing, an object of the present invention is to provide a baking container that includes a designated tear path along one or more score lines on the sidewall and optionally extending to the bottom of the baking container. The sidewall can be reinforced with a band or cord to create a strip. A folding tab, sticker, or pull tab may be present to facilitate removal of the baking container. By allowing controlled tearing of the baking container, a person may be able to efficiently and cleanly separate the baking container from the baked good. Summary of the Invention

[0014] According to a first aspect, the present disclosure relates to a baking container. The baking container has: a planar bottom surface having a perimeter; a sidewall extending from the perimeter to an edge; and a fracture line extending from the edge to a first point on the perimeter and from the first point on the perimeter to a second point within the perimeter on the planar bottom surface. The fracture line is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal and / or consumption of the baked food contained therein.

[0015] In one embodiment, the fracture line further extends to a third point on a side of the perimeter opposite the first point.

[0016] In one embodiment, the fracture line is not centered across the planar bottom surface.

[0017] In one embodiment, the fracture line is centered across the planar bottom surface.

[0018] In one embodiment, the fracture line further extends from the third point to a fourth point on a side of the sidewall opposite the first point.

[0019] In one embodiment, the fracture line further extends from the third point to a fifth point on the edge.

[0020] In yet another embodiment, the baking container is configured to completely separate into two parts.

[0021] In yet another embodiment, one part of the baking container is configured to remain in contact with the food when the baking container completely separates into two parts.

[0022] In yet another embodiment, the part of the baking container configured to remain in contact with the food has a remaining sidewall area that is 55%-80% of the total sidewall area of the baking container.

[0023] In yet another embodiment, the part of the baking container configured to remain in contact with the food has a remaining planar bottom surface area that is 10%-40% of the total planar bottom surface area of the baking container.

[0024] In one embodiment, the fracture line follows the shortest path from the edge to the perimeter, thereby forming a substantially perpendicular angle with the perimeter.

[0025] In one embodiment, the fracture line does not follow the shortest path from the edge to the perimeter and does not form a substantially perpendicular angle with the perimeter.

[0026] In yet another embodiment, the fracture line intersects the perimeter to form a minimum angle of 20°-70°.

[0027] In one embodiment, the maximum force resisted by the sidewall or the planar bottom surface that does not form part of the fracture line is 0.2-10 times greater than the maximum force resisted at the fracture line.

[0028] In one embodiment, the fracture line is formed by weakening the material of the sidewall, the planar bottom surface, or both.

[0029] In one embodiment, the fracture line is formed by a recess or a notch.

[0030] In one embodiment, the fracture line is formed by perforations.

[0031] In yet another embodiment, the perforations are points, pinholes, or substantially circular holes.

[0032] In one embodiment, the points, pinholes, or holes have an inner diameter of 0.05 mm - 1.00 mm.

[0033] In yet another embodiment, the perforations on the sidewall, the planar bottom surface, or both are spaced 0.5 mm - 1.5 mm apart.

[0034] In one embodiment, the perforations include elongated slits having a width of 0.05 mm - 1.00 mm and an aspect ratio of 1.5:1 - 5:1.

[0035] In yet another embodiment, the elongated slits have an elongated axis along the fracture line.

[0036] In one embodiment, the elongated slits have an elongated axis that forms an angle of 20°-60° with the path of the fracture line.

[0037] In one embodiment, the fracture line is formed by strengthening adjacent sidewalls, adjacent planar bottom surfaces, or both.

[0038] In yet another embodiment, the adjacent sidewalls are strengthened by increasing their thickness.

[0039] In one embodiment, the sidewalls are grooved, folded, ribbed, wavy, or pleated.

[0040] In one embodiment, the sidewalls are smooth.

[0041] In one embodiment, the baking container further includes a string, a folding tab, a sticker, or a band positioned along the fracture line.

[0042] In one embodiment, a folding tab is present and the folding tab is configured to be pinched and pulled to break the score line.

[0043] In one embodiment, the cord, folding tab, sticker, or strap has a width or diameter of 0.5 mm - 6 mm.

[0044] In one embodiment, the cord, folding tab, sticker, or strap has a total length of 2 cm - 40 cm.

[0045] In one embodiment, the baking container further includes a pull tab located at the score line.

[0046] In one embodiment, the score line is located by different coloring or texturing.

[0047] In one embodiment, the baking container further includes a seam along the score line.

[0048] In one embodiment, the baking container further includes a lid attached to a portion of the rim.

[0049] In one embodiment, the sidewall includes two material layers.

[0050] In one embodiment, the interior of the sidewall includes decoration, advertisement, graphics, pictures, text, or coloring that is not visible from the exterior of the sidewall.

[0051] In one embodiment, the baking container further includes a second score line, wherein the score line and the second score line form a tear strip having a width that is generally constant along the length of the tear strip.

[0052] In one embodiment, the planar bottom surface is generally circular.

[0053] In yet another embodiment where the planar bottom surface is generally circular, the ratio of the diameter of the rim to the diameter of the perimeter is 1:1 - 2:1.

[0054] In one embodiment, the planar bottom surface is generally rectangular and has an aspect ratio of 1:1 - 10:1.

[0055] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a baking container. The baking container has: a planar bottom surface having a perimeter; a sidewall extending from the perimeter to an edge; and two fracture lines extending from the edge to a first pair of points on the perimeter. The two fracture lines form a strip configured to be torn along the two fracture lines, and the strip is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal of and / or access to food contained therein.

[0056] In one embodiment, the two fracture lines extend from the first pair of points to a second pair of points on the planar bottom surface, the second pair of points being within the perimeter.

[0057] In one embodiment, the two fracture lines further extend to a third pair of points on a side of the perimeter opposite the first pair of points.

[0058] In one embodiment, the two fracture lines further extend from the third pair of points to a fourth pair of points on a side of the sidewall opposite the first pair of points.

[0059] In one embodiment, the two fracture lines further extend from the third pair of points to a fifth pair of points on the edge.

[0060] In one embodiment, the strip is formed of a material having an average thickness 1.05 - 10.00 times greater than the material forming the sidewall and / or the planar bottom surface elsewhere.

[0061] In one embodiment, the strip further includes a pull tab or a fold tab configured to be pinched and pulled to tear the strip.

[0062] In one embodiment, the pull tab or the fold tab is located on a bottom side of the planar bottom surface.

[0063] In yet another embodiment, a pull tab is present and the pull tab has a width greater than the width of the strip.

[0064] According to a third aspect, the present disclosure relates to a baking container. The baking container has: a planar bottom surface having a perimeter; a sidewall extending from the perimeter to an edge; and two fracture lines extending from the edge to a first pair of points on the sidewall and extending along the circumference of the sidewall from the first pair of points. The two fracture lines form a strip configured to be torn along the two fracture lines, and the strip is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal of and / or access to food contained therein, leaving a bottom portion of the baking container in contact with the food.

[0065] In one embodiment, the bottom portion has a height that is 5%-50% of the total height of the sidewall.

[0066] According to a fourth aspect, the present disclosure relates to a baking container. The baking container has: a planar bottom surface having a perimeter; a sidewall extending from the perimeter to an edge; a first fracture line extending from the edge to a first pair of points on the sidewall; and a second fracture line and a third fracture line both extending circumferentially along the sidewall from the first pair of points. The second fracture line and the third fracture line form a strip that is configured to be torn along the two fracture lines, and the strip is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal and / or consumption of food contained therein, leaving the bottom portion of the baking container in contact with the food.

[0067] The foregoing paragraphs are provided by way of general introduction and are not intended to limit the scope of the above claims. The described embodiments, as well as additional advantages, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0068] A more complete understanding of many of the present disclosure and its attendant advantages will be readily obtained, as many of the present disclosure and its attendant advantages will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0069] Figure 1A A side view of a baking container having a fracture line terminating at the perimeter of the planar bottom surface.

[0070] Figure 1B For Figure 1A a top view of the baking container.

[0071] Figure 2A A side view of a baking container having a fracture line terminating beyond the perimeter of the planar bottom surface.

[0072] Figure 2B For Figure 2A a top view of the baking container showing a fracture line terminating within the perimeter of the planar bottom surface.

[0073] Figure 3A A side view of a baking container having a fracture line terminating beyond the perimeter of the planar bottom surface.

[0074] Figure 3B For Figure 3A a top view of the baking container showing fracture lines terminating at opposite sides of the perimeter.

[0075] Figure 4A Side view of a baking container with a fracture line that terminates at the perimeter beyond the planar bottom surface.

[0076] Figure 4B Is Figure 4A Top view of the baking container of , showing a fracture line that terminates at opposite sides of the sidewall.

[0077] Figure 5A Side view of a baking container with a fracture line that terminates at the perimeter beyond the planar bottom surface.

[0078] Figure 5B Is Figure 5A Top view of the baking container of , showing a fracture line that terminates at opposite sides of the rim.

[0079] Fig. 6A Side view of a baking container with a pull tab.

[0080] Figure 6B Is Fig. 6A Top view of the baking container of , showing a fracture line along a portion of the perimeter.

[0081] Fig. 7A Side view of a baking container with a pull tab.

[0082] Figure 7B Is Fig. 7A Top view of the baking container of , showing a fracture line along most of the perimeter.

[0083] Fig. 8A Is a baking container with a strip intersecting a circumferential fracture line.

[0084] Figure 8B Shows the Fig. 8A baking container after opening.

[0085] Fig. 9 Is a side view of a baking container with a strip in a path similar to Fig. 8A

[0086] Fig.10 Top view of a baking container showing multiple intersecting strips.

[0087] Fig.11 Another top view of a baking container showing multiple intersecting strips.

[0088] Fig.12 Top view of a baking container showing an eccentric strip with a pull tab.

[0089] Fig.13 Side view of a baking container with a pinch point at the end of the strip.

[0090] Fig.14 Side view of a baking container having a pinch point at an intermediate position on a side wall.

[0091] Fig.15 Side view of a baking container having a circumferential folding tab, a portion of which can be used as a pinch point for tearing.

[0092] Fig.16A Side view of a baking container having a fracture line starting from a bottom folding tab.

[0093] Fig. 16B Is Fig.16A Bottom view of the baking container of , showing the bottom folding tab.

[0094] Fig.17A Longitudinal sectional view of a baking container having a bottom folding tab and a recessed bottom.

[0095] Fig. 17B Is Fig.17A Bottom view of the baking container in , the baking container having a strip across the bottom from the bottom folding tab.

[0096] Fig.18 Bottom view of a baking container having an arrangement of folding tabs and fracture lines.

[0097] Fig.19 Bottom view of another baking container having an arrangement of folding tabs and fracture lines.

[0098] Fig. 20 Bottom view of another baking container having an arrangement of folding tabs and fracture lines.

[0099] Fig.21 Bottom view of a baking container having an arrangement of folding tabs and fracture lines, wherein the folding tab is a decorative part.

[0100] Fig. 22 Bottom view of a baking container having an arrangement of folding tabs and fracture lines.

[0101] Fig.23 Longitudinal sectional view of a baking container formed from a single continuous material.

[0102] Fig.24 Longitudinal sectional view of a baking container having an internally turned-up bottom portion.

[0103] Fig.25 Longitudinal sectional view of a baking container having an externally turned-up bottom portion.

[0104] Fig.26Longitudinal cross-sectional view of a baking container having side walls and an internally turned-up bottom portion and an inverted U-shaped bottom portion.

[0105] Fig. 27 Longitudinal cross-sectional view of a baking container having a recessed bottom and an internally turned-up portion.

[0106] Fig.28 Longitudinal cross-sectional view of a baking container having a recessed bottom and an inverted U-shaped bottom portion.

[0107] Fig.29 Side view of a baking container having a pull tab attached to a strip that surrounds the side wall.

[0108] Fig.30 Side view of another baking container having a pull tab attached to a strip that surrounds the side wall.

[0109] Fig.31 Side view of a baking container having a decorative pull tab and strip.

[0110] Fig.32 Side view of another baking container having a decorative pull tab and strip, the other baking container being openable from a different direction than Fig.31 the baking container.

[0111] Fig.33 Side view of a baking container having a decorative design on the side wall and two strips each having a decorative pull tab.

[0112] Fig.34 Side view of another baking container having a decorative design on the side wall and two strips each having a decorative pull tab.

[0113] Fig.35 Side view of a baking container having a decorative pull tab.

[0114] Fig.36 Side view of another baking container having a decorative pull tab.

[0115] Fig.37 Side view of a baking container having a loop attached to a strip.

[0116] Fig.38 Side view of a baking container having a corrugated edge and a folding pull tab.

[0117] Fig.39 Side view of a baking container having a pull tab and break lines spaced at varying widths.

[0118] Fig.40 Side view of a baking container having a reinforced strip of tape.

[0119] Fig.41 Side view of a baking container filled with food and having a strip and a pull tab starting at an intermediate position on the side wall.

[0120] Fig.42 Side view of a baking container having a strip reinforced by two cords on each side.

[0121] Fig.43 Side view of a baking container having a strip reinforced by a cord along the middle of the strip.

[0122] Fig.44 Side view of a baking container having a single cord with loops, the single cord creating a single fracture line.

[0123] Fig.45 Side view of a baking container having a single cord, the single cord creating a single fracture line.

[0124] Fig.46 Perspective view of a rectangular baking container having an eccentric strip.

[0125] Fig.47 Side view of a baking container having a lid.

[0126] Fig.48 Side view of a baking container having an inner side wall layer and an outer side wall layer, the outer side wall layer having a grommet.

[0127] Fig.49 Side view of a baking container having an inner side wall layer and an outer side wall layer, wherein the outer side wall layer has a circumferential folding tab.

[0128] Fig.50 Side view of a baking container having an inner side wall layer and an outer side wall layer, wherein the outer side wall layer is die-cut.

[0129] Fig.51A Top view of a baking container having an inner side wall layer and an outer side wall layer, wherein a portion of the outer side wall layer is folded outward.

[0130] Fig.51B For Fig.51A Perspective view.

[0131] Fig.52 Side view of a baking container that can be opened from a seam in the side wall.

[0132] Fig.53 Side view of another baking container that can be opened from a seam.

[0133] Fig.54Side view of a baking container configured to open from a seam, which will then tear along a tear line.

[0134] Fig.55 Side view of a baking container configured such that opening the container from the seam causes it to tear along a circumferential tear line.

[0135] Fig.56 Side view of a baking container in which the side walls are fastened by tabs and slots.

[0136] Fig.57 Side view of a baking container having side walls fastened by symmetric clasps.

[0137] Fig.58 Side view of a baking container having a wide tear strip with a pull tab.

[0138] Fig.59 Side view of a baking container having a wide tear strip with a tear line at the bottom thereof.

[0139] Fig.60 Side view of a baking container having a tear line starting from a notch in the rim.

[0140] Fig.61 Side view of a baking container having a pull tab and a notch in the rim and an eccentrically widened tear strip.

[0141] Fig.62 Side view of a baking container having an angled tear strip formed by a tear line that does not intersect the perimeter.

[0142] Fig.63 Side view of a baking container having a single tear line connected to a rim with a notch.

[0143] Fig.64 Side view of a baking container having a tear strip with a curved bottom of the tear line and a tear line connected to a notch in the rim.

[0144] Fig.65 Side view of a baking container having a wide tear strip with a textured pull tab and a hinge connecting the bottoms of two tear lines.

[0145] Fig.66 Side view of a baking container having a wide horizontal transverse tear strip with a pull tab, the tear strip being attached at a hinge.

[0146] Fig.67Side view of a baking container having a single fracture line along most of the circumference of the side wall, the single fracture line forming a wide horizontal tear strip with a pull tab.

[0147] Fig.68 Side view of a baking container having both a notch in the rim at the top of the curved fracture line and a folded tab as a pull tab.

[0148] Fig.69 Side view of a baking container having a curved fracture line that connects to a pull tab near the bottom of the side wall.

[0149] Fig.70 Side view of a baking container having a square notch in the rim and a pull tab that connects a wide tear strip with a curved bottom.

[0150] Fig.71 Side view of a baking container having a notch in the rim and a bottom pull tab attached to the tear strip by an adhesive.

[0151] Fig.72A Top view of a baking container having a pull tab similar to a tongue.

[0152] Fig.72B Is Fig.72A Perspective view.

[0153] Fig.73A Side view of a baking container having a fracture line that terminates at the perimeter of the flat bottom surface.

[0154] Fig.73B Is Fig.73A Top view of a baking container.

[0155] Fig.74A Side view of a baking container having a fracture line that terminates at the perimeter beyond the flat bottom surface.

[0156] Fig.74B Is Fig.74A Top view of a baking container showing a fracture line that terminates within the perimeter of the flat bottom surface.

[0157] Fig.75A Side view of a baking container having a fracture line that terminates at the perimeter beyond the flat bottom surface.

[0158] Fig.75B Is Fig.75A Top view of a baking container showing a fracture line that terminates at opposite sides of the perimeter.

[0159] Fig.76A Side view of a baking container having a fracture line that terminates at the perimeter beyond the flat bottom surface.

[0160] Fig.76B For Fig.76A Top view of a baking container, showing a fracture line that terminates at opposite sides of the side wall.

[0161] Fig.77A Side view of a baking container having a fracture line that terminates at the periphery beyond the planar bottom surface.

[0162] Fig.77B For Fig.77A Top view of a baking container, showing a fracture line that terminates at opposite sides of the rim.

[0163] Fig.78 Top view of a baking container having an eccentric edge-to-edge fracture line.

[0164] Fig.79 Top view of a baking container having an eccentric curved fracture line.

[0165] Fig.80 Top view of a baking container having an eccentric curved fracture line.

[0166] Fig.81 Top view of a baking container having a wavy fracture line.

[0167] Fig.82 Top view of a baking container having a fracture line with straight and curved segments on the planar bottom surface.

[0168] Fig.83 Top view of a baking container having a fracture line with segments coinciding with the periphery.

[0169] Fig.84 Top view of a baking container having intersecting fracture lines.

[0170] Fig.85 Top view of a baking container having intersecting fracture lines.

[0171] Fig.86 Top view of a baking container having multiple fracture lines on the side wall and no fracture line on the planar bottom surface.

[0172] Fig.87 Top view of a baking container having a curved fracture line segment on the side wall and a serrated fracture line segment on the planar bottom surface.

[0173] Fig.88 Top view of a baking container having a curved fracture line segment on the side wall.

[0174] Fig.89Top view of a baking container having a curved fracture line segment on a sidewall.

[0175] Fig.90 Top view of a baking container having a rectangular planar bottom surface and an edge-to-edge fracture line starting and ending at a notch in the edge.

[0176] Fig.91 Top view of a baking container having a pentagonal planar bottom surface with intersecting curved and straight fracture lines.

[0177] Fig.92 Top view of a baking container having an oval planar bottom surface and a plurality of non-intersecting edge-to-edge fracture lines.

[0178] Fig.93 Side view of a baking container having a single fracture line starting from an edge, the single fracture line resulting in a horizontal tear strip. Detailed Description

[0179] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the disclosure are shown.

[0180] The present disclosure will be better understood with reference to the following definitions. As used herein, the words "a" and "an" and the like carry the meaning of "one or more". In the description of the present disclosure, when stating numerical limits or ranges, the endpoints are included unless otherwise stated. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising", when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0181] As used herein, when describing a quantity and / or a position, the words "substantially", "about", "approximately" or "substantially similar" may be used to indicate that the described value and / or position is within a reasonably expected range of the value and / or position. For example, a numerical value may have a value of + / - 0.1% of the stated value (or value range), + / - 1% of the stated value (or value range), + / - 2% of the stated value (or value range), + / - 5% of the stated value (or value range), + / - 10% of the stated value (or value range), + / - 15% of the stated value (or value range), or + / - 20% of the stated value (or value range). Within the description of the present disclosure, in cases where numerical limits or ranges are stated, endpoints are included unless otherwise stated. As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the examples, and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word "substantially", "about" or "approximately", even if the term does not explicitly appear. Additionally, all values and sub-ranges specifically included within a numerical limit or range are as if explicitly written out.

[0182] As used herein, facilitating the removal of a baking container, facilitating the removal of food, or separating the baking container from the food (or vice versa) are considered equivalent actions. The baking container may be removed completely or partially, and the food may be edible while a portion of the baking container remains intact or attached to the food. The baking containers described herein may also be considered baking liners, muffin liners, display cups, candy cups, baking paper, cupcake papers, cupcake wrappers, pie plates, pie tins, breadstick liners, éclair liners, etc. Additionally, the terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and are not intended to be limiting of the invention.

[0183] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a baking container comprising: a planar bottom surface having a perimeter; side walls extending from the perimeter to an edge; and two score lines extending from the edge to a first pair of points on the perimeter. The two score lines form a strip configured to be torn along the two score lines. Figure 1A and Figure 1B One such embodiment is shown in

[0184] In one embodiment, the strip is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal of and / or access to the food contained therein. Thus, the strip can be considered a "tear strip". In other embodiments, the score line (and thus, the strip) can extend along the bottom and / or to the opposite side of the sidewall. These embodiments can not only allow the sidewall to be opened to facilitate removal of an item, but also split the baking container into two sides. In yet another embodiment, the two sides can be similar to two halves of the container, and opening the two sides can be similar to opening a pair of out-swinging doors (e.g., the doors of a side-by-side refrigerator).

[0185] For example, in one embodiment, two score lines further extend from a first pair of points to a second pair of points located within the perimeter of the planar bottom surface. Figure 2A and Figure 2B One such embodiment is shown in. In the case where the second pair of points is located within a generally circular perimeter, the second pair of points can be located at a position that is 10%-90%, preferably 20%-80% or 30%-75%, 30%-40%, 40%-50%, 50%-60%, 60%-70%, 70%-80% of the length of the diameter or chord. Additionally, the score line connecting the first pair of points to the second pair of points can be positioned along the diameter or radius of the generally circular planar bottom surface, as Figure 2B shown in. Alternatively, the score line connecting the first pair of points and the second pair of points can be eccentric and not positioned along the diameter or radius of the generally circular planar bottom surface, but rather along a chord that is 10%-90%, preferably 20%-80% or 30%-75%, 30%-40%, 40%-50%, 50%-60%, 60%-70%, 70%-80% of the length of the diameter. For a baking container that does not have a generally circular planar bottom surface and perimeter, the second pair of points can be located at a distance that is 10%-90%, preferably 20%-80% or 30%-75%, 30%-40%, 40%-50%, 50%-60%, 60%-70%, 70%-80% along a diagonal or other line connecting two points of the perimeter. This diagonal or other line may or may not intersect the geometric centroid of the planar bottom surface.

[0186] In yet another embodiment, two score lines further extend from the second pair of points to a third pair of points. Here, the third pair of points is located on the side of the perimeter opposite the first pair of points. Figure 3A and Figure 3B One such embodiment is shown in.

[0187] In yet another embodiment, two score lines further extend from the third pair of points to a fourth pair of points, the fourth pair of points being located on the side of the sidewall opposite the first pair of points. In Figure 4A and Figure 4B One such embodiment is shown in.

[0188] In yet another embodiment of the baking vessel, two breaking lines may extend to a fifth pair of points, the fifth pair of points being located on the side of the rim opposite to where the breaking lines initially extend. Figure 5A and Figure 5B shows one such embodiment.

[0189] In embodiments where one or more breaking lines connect two positions on the perimeter of the planar bottom face, the one or more breaking lines may be centered across the planar bottom face, for example, by intersecting the geometric centroid of the planar bottom face. For a generally circular perimeter, this would mean that the one or more breaking lines are along the diameter of the planar bottom face. Figure 3B 、 Figure 4B 、 Figure 5B 、 Fig.10 、 Fig. 17B show embodiments where one or more breaking lines or tear strips are centered across the planar bottom face. In other embodiments, the one or more breaking lines may not be centered across the planar bottom face. For example, the one or more breaking lines may not intersect the center or geometric centroid of the planar bottom face. The length of the one or more breaking lines may be 10% - 90%, preferably 20% - 80% or 30% - 75%, 30% - 40%, 40% - 50%, 50% - 60%, 60% - 70%, 70% - 80% of the length of the diameter or the longest length across the planar bottom face. Fig.12 、 Fig.46 、 Figure 78 to Figure 81 and Figure 87 to Figure 92 show embodiments where one or more breaking lines are not centered across the planar bottom face. The one or more breaking lines on the planar bottom face may be straight or linear; however, in other embodiments, the one or more breaking lines may be curved and / or angled. For example, Figure 79 to Figure 83 、 Fig.87 and Fig.91 show breaking lines on the planar bottom face that are not just a single straight line connecting two different points on the perimeter. Here, the breaking lines are curved, serrated, and wavy. In other embodiments, the one or more breaking lines on the planar bottom face may be rotationally symmetric and / or centered, such as in Figure 2B 、 Figure 3B 、 Figure 4B 、 Figure 5B 、 Fig.10 、 Fig.11 、 Fig.74B 、 Fig.75B 、 Fig.76B 、 Fig.77B and Figure 82 to Figure 85 .

[0190] Additionally, the planar bottom face may have multiple breaking lines that may or may not intersect each other. It has been contemplated that for such as Fig.92In the elongate baking container shown, the spaced-apart non-intersecting score lines enable a user to more easily control the length of the remaining baking container. A baking container having a generally circular planar bottom surface may also have a plurality of score lines across the planar bottom surface, where the plurality of score lines do not intersect one another. Examples of intersecting score lines on the planar bottom surface include Fig.10 , Fig.11 , Fig.84 , Fig.85 and Fig.91 . In one embodiment, one or more score lines or one or more strips may be torn from any direction and may be partially or fully torn. In certain embodiments, the score line may not be torn from either end but from a segment starting within the score line.

[0191] In one embodiment, the strip has a generally constant width, which means that along its length, the variation in width relative to the average width is less than 7% of the average width, preferably less than 5% of the average width. In one embodiment, the baking container may have a strip with a width of 0.5 cm - 2.5 cm, preferably 0.6 cm - 2.2 cm, more preferably 0.8 cm - 2.0 cm. In another embodiment, the baking container may have a wide strip with a width in the range of, for example, 2.0 cm - 5.5 cm, preferably 2.2 cm - 5.0 cm, preferably 2.5 cm - 4.5 cm, more preferably 2.6 cm - 4.2 cm. This wide strip may act more like a door on the sidewall and / or the planar bottom surface of the baking container in order to open a larger portion of the baking container. Additionally, in some embodiments, the strip may be considered a part of the sidewall and / or the planar bottom surface between any two score lines, and thus, the width of the strip may be considered the distance between any two score lines.

[0192] In one embodiment, one or more score lines follow the shortest path from the edge to the perimeter, thereby forming a generally perpendicular angle with the perimeter. As defined herein, a generally perpendicular angle means a minimum angle formed of 80° - 100°, preferably 85° - 95°, or about 90°.

[0193] In one embodiment, one or more score lines do not follow the shortest path from the edge to the perimeter and do not form a generally perpendicular angle with the perimeter. For example, the score line may encircle a portion of the sidewall. In one embodiment, the score line may encircle a portion of a cylindrical or frustoconical sidewall, as Fig.29 and Fig.86As shown. In yet another embodiment, the break line may completely surround the cylindrical or frustoconical sidewall. In these embodiments, the break line may intersect the perimeter to form a minimum angle of 20° - 70°, preferably 25° - 60°, more preferably 30° - 50°. However, in some embodiments, the break line may intersect the perimeter to form a minimum angle less than 20° or greater than 70°. In another embodiment, the break line may follow a curved path on the sidewall, such as Fig.64 , Figures 68 to 70 and Figure 87 to Figure 9 as shown in FIG. 8. Similarly, in some embodiments, one or more break lines do not form a substantially perpendicular angle with the edge, but rather form the angles mentioned for break lines intersecting the perimeter.

[0194] In one embodiment, one or more break lines may intersect the edge at a notch and may provide a starting point for the break line to be torn by weakening the said portion of the edge. In another embodiment, the notch may provide a visual or tactile cue for the user to locate the break line. The notch may be formed by cutting off a portion of the sidewall from the edge. The notch may have a height of 0.5 mm - 10 mm, preferably 0.8 mm - 8 mm, more preferably 1 mm - 5 mm, and may have a width of 0.2 mm - 8 mm, preferably 0.5 mm - 6 mm. The notch may have a V shape, a rectangular shape, or some other shape. A notch having a V shape may have an angle in the range of 5° - 80°, preferably 10° - 50°, more preferably 15° - 45°. Fig.60 , Fig.63 , Fig.64 , Fig.71 and Fig.90 show V-shaped notches; Fig.70 shows a rectangular notch. Two notches in the edge may form a pull tab therebetween. In other embodiments, a notch in the edge may be formed by a material absence, or a cut having a length similar to the notch, without having to remove material.

[0195] In another embodiment, the break line does not have a substantially constant width, but rather may have a width that increases closer to the perimeter. In this embodiment, the break line may intersect the sidewall at a symmetric angle or at different angles. In one embodiment, the break lines may move closer and / or farther apart in order to produce different shapes or patterns of the strip. In another related embodiment, the width of the break line may increase towards the perimeter and possibly along the planar bottom face, thus enabling a consumer means for removing a large portion of the baking container in one go. Fig.39 and Fig.61 each illustrate one such embodiment.

[0196] At the location where the break line ends within the baking container (such as Figure 1A , Figure 2A, Figure 3A and Figure 4A shown), rather than connected edge-to-edge (as in Figure 5A and Fig.12 ), in one embodiment, the tear line may or may not be connected by additional tear line segments. For example, in the case where the tear line terminates at an additional connecting tear line that is generally perpendicular (as in Figure 2B and Fig.59 ), the strip can be cleanly torn off as a rectangular block with clean edges. This additional tear line segment can be formed by perforation or by other means described for the tear line. Alternatively, the two tear lines defining the strip can be connected by bent tear line segments, as shown in Fig.64 and Fig.70 .

[0197] In other embodiments, the tear line can terminate without additional vertical tear line segments. Fig.58 One such example is shown in Fig.62 . More generally, in this particular embodiment, the strip can be separated at the tear line termination point, or depending on the material used, the tear can continue along the side wall and / or the flat bottom surface of the baking container. In related embodiments where the tear line ends at a location within the baking container, the tear lines can intersect at an angle, so that the strip is torn off and removed using a pointed end, such as the strip shown in Fig.65 and Fig.66 . This angle can be in the range of 5° - 80°, preferably 7° - 70°, more preferably 10° - 60°, and even more preferably 15° - 60°. In another embodiment, one or more tear lines can terminate at a hinge, fulcrum, or crease in the side wall and / or the flat bottom surface, as shown in Fig.65 and Fig.66 . At the hinge, the baking container can be opened by folding the hinge; however, the hinge is not intended to tear. Thus, the hinge can be formed by weakening the material, as described for forming the tear line, but not weakened to the same extent as the tear line. In embodiments where one or more tear lines are connected to the hinge, the hinge can allow a portion of the baking container to be opened like a door, similar to a mailbox, safe, or oven. In some embodiments, the hinge can be similar to the hinge described for the connection of the lid to the baking container.

[0198] In the case where the tear lines are connected edge-to-edge and are eccentric (such as in Figure 78 to Figure 81 and Figures 87 to 90In one embodiment, completely separating the baking container along the fracture line produces a smaller portion and a larger portion. In one embodiment, the smaller portion has a bottom surface area that is about 1 / 3 or about 1 / 4 of the original planar bottom surface area. In another embodiment, the smaller portion has a bottom area that is 5%-45%, preferably 15%-44%, more preferably 20%-40% of the original planar bottom surface area. In related embodiments, the fracture line on the planar bottom surface can be along an arc or a single curve, such as in Fig.79 , Fig.80 and Fig.91 . These embodiments allow consumers to leave different amounts of paper attached to the food. For example, a consumer using the baking container of Fig.80 can remove the smaller portion of the baking container from the food when completely separating along the fracture line and holding the larger portion of the baking container. This larger portion of the baking container remains in contact with the food, and in Fig.80 , the larger portion is more adapted to the shape of one or more bites of the food. In this way, the larger portion of the baking container has more sidewalls and less planar bottom surface compared to the smaller portion of the baking container. More sidewalls generally provide more surface to hold the baking container, and less planar bottom surface provides more food to be eaten.

[0199] For example, in one embodiment where the baking container is configured to separate into two parts and one part remains in contact with the food, the part in contact with the food can have a remaining sidewall area that is 55%-80%, preferably 60%-75%, more preferably 65%-70% of the total sidewall area of the baking container. In another embodiment, the part remaining in contact with the food can have a remaining planar bottom surface area that is 10%-40%, preferably 20%-38%, more preferably 25%-35%, or about 25% or about 33% of the total planar bottom surface area of the baking container.

[0200] In one embodiment, the strip is formed of a thicker material compared to the material forming the sidewalls and / or planar bottom surface elsewhere. The material of the strip can have an average thickness that is 1.05 - 10.0 times, preferably 1.1 - 5.0 times, more preferably 1.2 - 3.0 times larger.

[0201] However, in other embodiments, the strip is formed of a thinner material compared to the material forming the sidewalls and / or planar bottom surface elsewhere. For example, the strip can be thinner but stronger compared to the material forming the sidewalls and / or planar bottom surface elsewhere.

[0202] The material of the strip may comprise the same composition as the material forming the remaining part of the sidewall and / or the flat bottom surface. For example, the strip may simply be formed by a perforated score line. Alternatively, in this embodiment, the strip may be formed by folding a portion of the sidewall, the flat bottom surface, and / or the edge.

[0203] In another embodiment, the material of the strip may be similar to the material elsewhere on the sidewall and / or the flat bottom surface, but may comprise additional compounds. For example, in one embodiment, the sidewall and / or the flat bottom surface may have an overlapping seam forming the strip, where the strip further comprises an adhesive for closing the seam. Preferably, the adhesive is food-grade and heat-resistant. Similarly, the strip may be formed by folding the sidewall and / or the edge and securing the fold with an adhesive. In another embodiment, the strip may be impregnated with a synthetic polymer, plant fiber, or some other material to increase the strength of the strip.

[0204] In one embodiment, the baking container further comprises a rope, sticker, folding piece, or strap attached along a portion of the strip or alternatively near the score line. The rope, sticker, folding piece, or strap may be located within or impregnated in the strip (e.g., sandwiched between two overlapping pieces of the sidewall). The rope, sticker, folding piece, or strap may have a width or diameter of 0.5 mm - 6 mm, preferably 0.6 mm - 5 mm, more preferably 0.8 mm - 3 mm. However, in other embodiments, the rope, sticker, folding piece, or strap may have a width or diameter less than 0.5 mm or greater than 6 mm. The rope, sticker, folding piece, or strap may have a total length of 2 cm - 40 cm, preferably 3 cm - 30 cm, more preferably 4 cm - 10 cm. However, in some embodiments, the total length may be less than 2 cm or greater than 40 cm. In one embodiment, a single rope may be folded or looped back on itself. The rope may be considered a "reinforcing rope" and the strap may be considered a "reinforcing strap". In one embodiment, the strap or sticker may be a non-porous material, but in other embodiments, it may be porous, such as a strap comprising a woven material or mesh. In related embodiments, two or more ropes may be adhesively bonded adjacent to each other to form a material similar to a strap.

[0205] In embodiments where the baking container further comprises a rope, sticker, folding piece, or strap, preferably, the rope, sticker, folding piece, or strap comprises a heat-resistant food-grade material. In one embodiment, the rope, sticker, folding piece, or strap comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of plant fiber, polypropylene, crystalline polyethylene terephthalate (CPET), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA), parchment paper, silicone, metal, ceramic, polylactic acid, protein-based plastics, cellulose acetate, and silicone rubber.

[0206] In one embodiment, the string, sticker, flap, or strip may comprise a material considered to be a synthetic fiber. In another embodiment, the string, sticker, flap, or strip may comprise a material considered to be a natural fiber. In another embodiment, the string, sticker, flap, or strip may be derived from a natural fiber or natural source that has been chemically treated to yield the fiber.

[0207] In one embodiment, where the string, sticker, flap, or strip comprises a plant fiber, the plant fiber may be derived from cork, hardwood, wheat straw, rice straw, flax, esparto, reed, hemp, Indian hemp, jute, tossa jute, white jute, kenaf, ramie, roselle, crotalaria, urena, manila hemp, cantala, henequen leaves, agave, phormium tenax, New Zealand flax, sisal, akund floss, bagasse, bamboo, kapok, coir, cotton, silk floss tree, kapok, milkweed floss, or some other plant fiber.

[0208] In another embodiment, the string, sticker, flap, or strip may be attached to the outside of the baking container. In another embodiment, the string, sticker, flap, or strip may be attached to the inside of the baking container. In yet another embodiment where the string, sticker, flap, or strip may be attached to the inside of the baking container, the string, sticker, flap, or strip may be attached to the inside at one end of the string, sticker, flap, or strip, while the length of the string, sticker, flap, or strip lies within the baking container. In this embodiment, attachment at only one end may be required because once the baking container is filled with an item, the length of the string, sticker, flap, or strip will remain in place. In some embodiments, the string, sticker, flap, or strip may project from the baking container and be visible, but in other embodiments, for example, if the entire length of the string, sticker, flap, or strip is embedded within the sidewall or covered by a coating, the string, sticker, flap, or strip may be completely hidden.

[0209] As defined herein, the score line is a preferred path for tearing on the sidewall and / or planar bottom surface and may be created by weakening the path on the sidewall and / or planar bottom surface relative to the material elsewhere.

[0210] In one embodiment, the baking container is capable of resisting a maximum force applied to the sidewalls and / or the planar bottom surface until it tears along a tear line. For example, if this force is 0.5 N, a strip on the sidewall can be pulled with a force of 0.1 N or 0.4 N without tearing along the tear line. However, pulling with a force of 0.5 N or higher will cause tearing along the tear line. In one embodiment, this maximum force can be 0.05 N - 1.0 N, preferably 0.08 N - 0.9 N, more preferably 0.15 N - 0.8 N, and even more preferably 0.3 N - 0.7 N. In other embodiments, the maximum force can be less than 0.05 N or greater than 1.0 N, and can also depend on the angle of pulling.

[0211] In one embodiment, the tear line can be formed by weakening the material of the sidewalls and / or the planar bottom surface (e.g., by scraping, folding, perforating with a needle, die, or punch, rubbing with an abrasive material, irradiating, scribing, or etching). It should be noted that although the dashed line may appear similar to a perforation, the tear line 20 depicted in the drawing may or may not be formed by perforation, or may or may not be a perforation. In another embodiment, the tear line can be formed by strengthening adjacent sidewalls and / or adjacent planar bottom surfaces (e.g., by increasing the thickness of the material (as previously described), or by adding a cord or strap to the baking container). In another embodiment, the tear line can be formed by both weakening the material of the sidewalls and / or the planar bottom surface and strengthening adjacent sidewalls and / or adjacent planar bottom surfaces. In one embodiment, the maximum force that the sidewalls and / or the planar bottom surface that do not form the tear line can resist is 0.2 - 10 times greater, preferably 0.8 - 8 times greater, and more preferably 1.5 - 7 times greater than the maximum force resisted at the tear line. However, in other embodiments, this maximum force can be more than 10 times greater. In one embodiment, the larger difference between the two forces reduces the occurrence of the baking container accidentally tearing or rupturing outside the tear line.

[0212] In one embodiment, the tear line is formed by perforation. Preferably, these perforations are formed to have sizes and geometries such that the baking container does not leak liquid ingredients through the perforations. For example, in one embodiment, a needle can pierce through the sidewall all the way to create perforation holes, but due to the elasticity of the sidewall, the holes can close and seal themselves. In another related embodiment, the perforation holes can be large enough to allow air to pass through, but small enough to retain a viscous liquid such as cake batter.

[0213] In one embodiment, the perforations are dots, pinholes, or substantially circular holes. Here, the dots, pinholes, or holes may have an inner diameter of 0.05 mm - 1.00 mm, preferably 0.10 mm - 0.85 mm, more preferably 0.30 mm - 0.80 mm. However, in some embodiments, the dots, pinholes, or holes may have an inner diameter less than 0.05 mm or greater than 1.00 mm. In one embodiment, the perforations may be considered micro-perforations.

[0214] In one embodiment, the perforations may comprise slits having a width of 0.05 mm - 1.00 mm, preferably 0.10 mm - 0.85 mm, more preferably 0.30 mm - 0.80 mm, and an aspect ratio (length: width) of 1.5:1 - 5:1, preferably 1.7:1 - 4:1, more preferably 1.8:1 - 3:1. However, in some embodiments, the slits may have an aspect ratio less than 1.5:1 or greater than 5:1. As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, the slits may not be continuous openings through the sidewall and / or the planar bottom surface, but may be sealed or closed by the elasticity of the material.

[0215] In one embodiment, the perforations comprise slits having an elongated axis along a fracture line. In different embodiments, the perforations comprise slits having an elongated axis at an angle to the fracture line. For example, the slits may form an angle of 20° - 60°, preferably 30° - 55° with the path of the fracture line, where the path of the fracture line is defined by connecting the centers of each elongated slit. In other embodiments, the perforations or other structures may form fracture lines of different shapes or patterns. For example, the fracture line may be formed to have a shape similar to a sawtooth wave, sine wave, rectangular wave, trapezoidal wave, or some other variant. In one embodiment, the forms of two or more fracture lines may be symmetric or asymmetric with respect to each other.

[0216] In one embodiment, the perforations on the sidewall and / or the planar bottom surface may be spaced 0.5 mm - 1.5 mm, preferably 0.7 mm - 1.2 mm, more preferably 0.8 mm - 1.0 mm apart. However, in some embodiments, the perforations may be spaced less than 0.5 mm or greater than 1.5 mm apart.

[0217] In one embodiment, the fracture line may be formed by a shape similar to the shapes mentioned for the perforations, except that the shape is only a depression or indentation on the sidewall and / or the planar bottom surface, rather than an opening or pore that traverses the sidewall and / or the planar bottom surface and reaches the interior of the baking container. In some embodiments, the perforations, indentations, folding tabs, stickers, tapes, or cords may not be continuous along the edge of the baking container. For example, a strip may start at an intermediate position on the sidewall, such as Fig.41As shown, or may start on the flat bottom surface. In another embodiment where the perforations, score lines, tabs, stickers, straps or strings do not continue along the edge, the container may not be configured to tear at one end, or may be configured to have a relatively uncontrolled tear, which may remove a larger portion of the baking container. Depending on the mechanical properties of the material used, it may be sufficient to provide a break line for a short, controlled tear, which then results in an uncontrolled tear that connects to the opposite side of the baking container.

[0218] In another embodiment, the perforations may be a mixture of shapes, e.g., the perforations may be formed to have pinholes and slits, e.g., in a pattern of alternating dots and dashed lines. Similarly, the break line may include varying perforations or weakened areas so that varying forces are required to effect the tear. For example, the break line or strip may be easily torn to a point on the sidewall or flat bottom surface, and then a slightly greater force is required to continue the tear. This feature may provide a tactile feel for tearing the break line or strip to a certain extent (e.g., halfway across the sidewall).

[0219] In one embodiment, the baking container may have a single break line. Here, the baking container may include: a flat bottom surface having a perimeter; a sidewall extending from the perimeter to an edge; and a break line extending from the edge to a first point on the perimeter and from the first point to a second point on the perimeter. Preferably, in this embodiment, a string, sticker, tab or strap is positioned along the break line, similar to Fig.44 and Fig.45 as shown in the embodiment. Alternatively, notches, cuts, depressions, tabs or a lack of material in the edge may be present to locate the single break line, as Fig.63 , Fig.68 , 69 and Fig.90 as shown. In related embodiments, a baking liner having a single break line may have a break line along any kind of path as mentioned for the strips in other embodiments described herein. This includes its path or location on the sidewall, flat bottom surface and / or connecting different points on the baking container.

[0220] For example, a baking container may have a single fracture line that extends from an edge to a first point on a perimeter and from the first point on the perimeter to a second point within the perimeter on a planar bottom surface. Similar to a strip, the fracture line is also configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal and / or consumption of the baked food contained therein. In one embodiment, the fracture line further extends to a third point on a side of the perimeter opposite the first point. In another embodiment, the fracture line further extends from the third point to a fourth point on a side of the sidewall opposite the first point. In another embodiment, the fracture line further extends from the third point to a fifth point on the edge.

[0221] In one embodiment, a baking container has: a planar bottom surface having a perimeter; a sidewall extending from the perimeter to an edge; a first fracture line extending from the edge to a first pair of points on the sidewall; and second and third fracture lines both extending circumferentially along the sidewall from the first pair of points. The second and third fracture lines form a strip that is configured to be torn along the two fracture lines and that is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal and / or consumption of the food contained therein while leaving the bottom portion of the baking container in contact with the food.

[0222] In one embodiment, a baking container may have a combination of both a double fracture line forming a strip and a single fracture line not forming a strip. Preferably, in this embodiment, the double fracture line and the single fracture line are connected to each other, as in Fig. 8A but in other embodiments, the fracture lines may not be connected. Similarly, it has been envisioned that for any of the embodiments described herein of a baking container that mentions a single fracture line, a double fracture line forming a strip, or a combination having both, embodiments may be employed that replace the single fracture line with a double fracture line forming a strip and that replace the double fracture line or the tear strip with a single fracture line. By way of example and not limitation, as indicated by the figures, FIG. 73A to FIG. 73B 、 FIG. 74A to FIG. 74B 、 FIG. 75A to FIG. 75B 、 FIG. 76A to FIG. 76B 、 FIG. 77A to FIG. 77B having a single fracture line in a position similar to the tear strip of Figure 1A to Figure 1B 、 Figure 2A to Figure 2B 、 FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B 、 FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B 。 Fig.12 having a tear strip along a path similar to the single fracture line of Fig.78 。

[0223] In one embodiment, a baking container may include more than one strip, folding flap, sticker, strap, or cord or more than two fracture lines. Fig.10and Fig.11 illustrates examples of related embodiments. In one embodiment, a pull strip, a folding tab, a sticker, a tape, or a cord may be pulled through the interior of the baking container and thus through the inside of the food, rather than pulling the strip, folding tab, sticker, tape, or cord away from the baking container. In this embodiment, the strip, folding tab, sticker, tape, or cord is designed to cut through soft foods such as cheesecake, and multiple strips, folding tabs, stickers, tapes, or cords in this configuration may be used to create portions of the food, e.g., to divide the cake into six similar pieces. In one embodiment, a tape, folding tab, sticker, or cord may be pulled through the interior of the food to cut the food, while a strip along the original position of the tape, folding tab, sticker, or cord may be pulled away from the baking container in order to separate the container. In other embodiments, a strip with or without a reinforcing tape, folding tab, sticker, or cord may be pulled through the food to cut the food and separate the container simultaneously.

[0224] In one embodiment, the sidewall and the planar bottom surface are formed of the same material. In yet another embodiment, the sidewall and the planar bottom surface may be formed from a planar block of material that is shaped into the baking container. This shaping may involve folding, pleating, or channeling the sidewall. In another embodiment, the sidewall may be cut and adhered with an overlap to form a rim or a planar bottom surface. In other embodiments, the baking container may be formed from two or more pieces of material that are folded, glued, stapled, or otherwise attached together. For example, some baking containers may be constructed by attaching a sidewall to a planar bottom surface in a manner similar to a DIXIE cup or some other paper cup. In related embodiments where the baking container is formed by attaching a sidewall to a planar bottom surface, the planar bottom may have an edge that is turned up or down, e.g., to form a U or an inverted U shape. Figure 24 to Figure 28 illustrates different configurations of how the sidewall and the planar bottom surface may be attached together.

[0225] In one embodiment, a strip may be formed within the baking container or placed inside the baking container, as Fig.72A and Fig.72BAs shown, the strip is arranged similar to a tongue. Here, the strip is attached to the inner sidewall near the periphery within the baking container. The strip is mainly visible through a cutout in the sidewall, except along the side and bottom edges of the strip. It is envisioned that, similar to a tongue, the two sides of the strip are not attached to the sidewall. Instead, the two sides of the strip can be held in place by frictional coupling with the inner sidewall, especially in the case of food within the baking container. The top of the strip can then be pulled outwards from the top to open the baking container from the side, thus easily opening most of the sidewall. Similarly, it is envisioned that this embodiment can be adapted to attach the two sides of the strip by folding the sidewall inwards, or by gluing to the sidewall. The embodiment can be adapted to a baking container formed of a single material, and the strip may or may not have a break line along its edge.

[0226] In one embodiment, the baking container has a recessed bottom, or in other words, a bottom edge that protrudes from the periphery in a direction away from the rim. In this embodiment, the bottom edge enables the baking container to rest on a flat surface, and there is a space between the planar bottom surface and the flat surface. In one embodiment, the bottom edge can enclose a plane that is generally parallel to the planar bottom surface, but in some embodiments, the bottom edge can enclose a plane that is not generally parallel to the planar bottom surface. In an alternative embodiment, a protrusion, foot, or other support can extend from the periphery or from the planar bottom surface. The benefit of a recessed bottom is that it can prevent the bottom side of the planar bottom surface from contacting the surface, which can be greasy due to baking. Another benefit of a recessed bottom can be that a pull tab folded under the bottom of the baking container is easily accessible, as it is not lying flat against the planar bottom surface. Fig.17A An example of this situation is shown. In another variant, a baking container with a recessed bottom may not have a bottom-folded pull tab as shown in Fig. 17B but may have a part of the bottom edge of the sidewall that forms a pinch point for tearing. Or in other words, the pull tab can form part of the bottom edge of the sidewall.

[0227] In one embodiment, the recessed bottom can have a height of 1 mm - 7 mm, preferably 2 mm - 6 mm, more preferably 3 mm - 5 mm above the bottom edge of the sidewall, but in some embodiments, the height can be less than 1 mm or greater than 7 mm. A baking container with a recessed bottom does not require a continuous bottom edge of the sidewall, as there may be breakage in the bottom edge of the sidewall when providing support to the baking container.

[0228] In one embodiment, the baking container has a strip formed as a pull tab or further includes a pull tab. The pull tab may have a longest dimension or length of 1 cm - 3 cm, preferably 1.2 cm - 2.8 cm, more preferably 1.5 cm - 2.5 cm, but in some embodiments, the pull tab may have a length shorter than 1 cm or longer than 3 cm. In some embodiments, the pull tab may have a length that is less than, generally similar to, or greater than the width of the strip.

[0229] For example, the pull tab may have a width of 0.5 cm - 2.5 cm, preferably 0.6 cm - 2.2 cm, more preferably 0.8 cm - 2.0 cm, but in some embodiments, the pull tab may have a width less than 0.5 cm or greater than 2.5 cm. The pull tab may have a width that is less than, generally similar to, or greater than the width of the strip. In some embodiments, the pull tab may be generally flat (having a thickness similar to the sidewall), while in other embodiments, the pull tab may be folded into a shape or have a three - dimensional shape with a thickness greater than the sidewall.

[0230] In one embodiment, the pull tab is formed by a strip extending beyond the edge, but in other embodiments, the pull tab may be formed by adhering or attaching additional material to the strip or sidewall, such as a sticker. For example, the sticker may have an adhesive on only one segment, allowing the non - adhesive area to protrude from the surface or be easily lifted by a person's finger. Fig.71 An example of a pull tab having a protruding area and an adhesive area is shown. Additionally, the pull tab may be formed by two or more notches in the edge, such as by Fig.70 the square notch in Fig.71 and the V - shaped notch in Fig.68 shown. A pull tab formed by notches in the edge may additionally have a folding tab or a sticker, for example,

[0231] Due to the greasiness sometimes produced by baking, the pull tab may have additional texture so that the user can easily grasp the pull tab and the pull tab does not slip. The pull tab may have additional protrusions to provide more surface area for grasping, as shown in Fig.67 such as Fig.66 and Fig.69 The thin pull tab with additional texture in

[0232] In an alternative embodiment, the baking container may not have a specific tear line, but may have one or more stickers attached. In some embodiments, an adhered tab may be considered equivalent to a sticker, but in some embodiments, a sticker may be considered a more ornamental form of a tab. One or more stickers may be configured to pull the sidewall away from the baked food with or without tearing. In one embodiment, one or more stickers may be semi-circular and arcuate, similar to a bucket handle or a Saturn ring. In this alternative embodiment, the sticker may have an adhesive strength that allows the sticker to be placed anywhere on the exterior of the baking container such that the sticker can be pulled to tear the baking container or separate the baking container from the baked food.

[0233] In one embodiment, the baking container may be configured to be separated from the food by one hand when placed on a flat surface or in the palm of the other hand. In this embodiment, one or more tear lines may enable the sidewall and / or the flat bottom surface to be easily torn. It has further been contemplated that the baking container with the food can be lifted from a strip, tab, sticker, folding piece, or string, and the weight of the food may cause the strip to be completely or partially torn off. Alternatively, if the weight of the food is not sufficient to tear the sidewall, a person may shake or flick the baking container while holding the strip, folding piece, sticker, tab, or string. For certain positions of the strip and the tear line on the baking container, such as in Fig.29 and Fig.30 this shaking or flicking may cause the baking container to rotate or spin.

[0234] In a similar embodiment, the baking container may have an easily tearable end of a strip while the other end is configured to remain attached to the baking container. In this embodiment, lifting, shaking, or flicking the baking container while holding the strip, tab, or string may tear off the sidewall and remove the remaining portion of the baking container in one piece.

[0235] In one embodiment, the baking container may have more than one strip, more than one tab, and / or more than one folding piece. For example, the baking container may have more than one tab that is shaped to form a pair of ears (as in Fig.33 or Fig.34 a footrest (as in

[0236] In one embodiment, a strip or score line on the baking container may be located by different coloring or texturing, or the score line may be formed by perforations or indentations that are readily visible. In other embodiments, the pull tab may extend beyond the edge of the baking container and be readily visible, and may be further colored differently from the remainder of the container. In some embodiments, the pull tab may be noticeable due to being large, decorative, and / or protruding from a portion of the sidewall, as in Figure 35 to Figure 38 and Fig.41 . In some embodiments, the pull tab may have a width that is generally similar to the width of the strip, as shown in Fig. 6A , Figure 6B , Fig.12 , Fig.29 , Fig.38 , Figure 40 to Figure 42 , Fig.46 , Fig.58 and Fig.59 . In some embodiments, the pull tab may have a width that is less than the width of the strip, such as in Figure 60 to Figure 62 , Fig.64 , Fig.70 and Fig.71 . In other embodiments, a loop and / or string may be used in place of the pull tab, as shown in Figure 43 to Figure 45 .

[0237] In one embodiment, the baking container may have an edge or corner of the strip that forms a pinch point for pulling the strip from the baking container. In one embodiment, this pinch point may simply be a designated portion of the perimeter (with or without additional coloring or labeling), and may or may not have additional reinforcement by a string, strap, or additional material. In some embodiments, the pinch point may be formed or folded such that it protrudes and is readily visible, as shown in Fig.13 and Fig.14 . In the embodiment of Fig.13 , the strip may be torn from the perimeter, across the planar bottom surface, and up the sidewall to the rim. However, the strip may also be torn from the opposite direction and / or from multiple directions. Related pinch point variations have circumferential horizontal fold tabs with a tear strip (as shown in Fig.15 ) or without a tear strip (not shown).

[0238] In one embodiment, the baking container has a pull tab or fold tab located on the bottom side of the planar bottom surface, as depicted in FIG. 16A to FIG. 22 . The pull tab or fold tab in this arrangement may be connected to a strip or strap, or may be aligned with one or more score lines. The baking container may have any number or arrangement of fold tabs or ears on its bottom, some of which may be functional pull tabs, but in some situations, all may be functional pull tabs, as in Fig.18As shown. In one embodiment, these bottom flaps and ears can be formed in any shape or arrangement. In some preferred embodiments, the bottom flaps and ears can be arranged in a decorative pattern. In another embodiment, the pull tab can be integrally formed with the side wall adjacent to the recessed bottom.

[0239] In some embodiments, the baking container can have a seam, and the side wall can be opened, torn, or peeled from the seam. In a particular embodiment, the side wall can be formed from a flat piece of material that is wound to bond or join opposite ends, similar to the construction of a paper cup (e.g., a DIXIE cup). In these embodiments, the side wall seam can be opened from the top corner, bottom corner, and / or middle portion of the seam. The seam can have an unbonded portion such that a person can easily start peeling from it. The baking container can be opened from the seam that does not tear along one or more designated break lines or designated tear paths. However, the seam can be easily configured with Fig.54 and Fig.55 one or more break lines as shown, and configured with strips. In some situations, considering that the seam has an overlap and thus a reinforced side wall, the seam can be used as a reinforced strip for tearing, as described elsewhere. Fig.55 A baking container is provided that can be opened in a manner similar to removing a soup can label, leaving the bottom portion of the container.

[0240] In one embodiment, the seam can be held by an adhesive, but in other embodiments, the seam can be closed by a structure such as a buckle, latch, ear, twist, or other connector. The connector can be asymmetrical, such as a male and female connector ( Fig.56 ), or symmetrical, such as a yin-yang buckle ( Fig.57 ). These structures can be formed from the same material as the side wall (e.g., cut from a single sheet of paper), or can be bonded to the side wall. In additional embodiments, opening the side wall from these structures can also leave a separate bottom portion of the baking container.

[0241] In one embodiment, the height of the side wall perpendicular to the planar bottom surface varies along the perimeter. In this embodiment, the edge can enclose a planar shape (e.g., a conic section), however, the planar shape may not be parallel to the planar bottom surface. However, in another embodiment, the height of the side wall perpendicular to the planar bottom surface varies along the perimeter, and the edge does not enclose a planar shape. In this embodiment, the edge can be rolled or flanged, and / or can form a shape such as a wave, sink, point, or flower. In one embodiment, the edge comprises a different material from the side wall, or can be separately attached to the side wall. In another embodiment, the edge comprises the same material as the side wall.

[0242] In one embodiment, the average height of the sidewall can be from 1 cm to 30 cm, preferably from 1.5 cm to 20 cm, more preferably from 2 cm to 10 cm, and even more preferably from 3 cm to 8 cm. However, in other embodiments, the average height of the sidewall can be less than 1 cm or greater than 30 cm.

[0243] In one embodiment, the rim can be rolled, flanged, curled, or folded. In yet another embodiment, one or more sides of the rectangular baking container can be partially or fully folded over the opening of the baking container to allow stacking of two or more baking containers without the containers falling into each other.

[0244] In one embodiment, the flat bottom surface is generally circular, e.g., like a common cupcake or muffin liner. In another embodiment, the flat bottom surface can be rectangular and arcuate, e.g., like an oval or an ellipse. In another embodiment, the flat bottom surface can be rectangular or generally square. In alternative embodiments, the flat bottom surface can form different shapes with straight and / or curved edges, e.g., a semi - circle.

[0245] The generally circular flat bottom surface can have a diameter of from 2 cm to 25 cm, preferably from 2.5 cm to 20 cm, more preferably from 3 cm to 15 cm, and even more preferably from 3.5 cm to 10 cm. However, in other embodiments, the flat bottom surface can have a diameter less than 2 cm or greater than 25 cm.

[0246] In one embodiment where the rim and the flat bottom surface are generally circular, the ratio of the rim diameter to the bottom diameter can be from 1:1 to 2:1, preferably from 1.05:1 to 1.80:1, more preferably from 1.08:1 to 1.20:1, where a ratio of 1:1 indicates that the sidewall forms a right - cylindrical surface.

[0247] In one embodiment, a baking container having a generally circular flat bottom surface can have a shape and size similar to a common pie pan, a deep - dish pie pan, or a 9 - inch round baking pan. In other embodiments, a baking container having a generally circular flat bottom surface can have a shape and size similar to a common muffin or cupcake liner or a "mini" muffin or "mini" cupcake liner. In one embodiment, the baking container can have a shape like a bundt pan, similar to an angel food cake pan or a BUNDT cake pan.

[0248] The generally rectangular planar bottom surface may have a width of 4 cm - 30 cm, preferably 6 cm - 25 cm, more preferably 8 cm - 20 cm. The generally rectangular planar bottom surface may have an aspect ratio (length:width) of 1:1 - 10:1, preferably 1:1 - 4:1, more preferably 1:1 - 3:1, but in some embodiments, the aspect ratio may be greater than 10:1.

[0249] In one embodiment where the rim and the planar bottom surface are generally rectangular, the ratio of the diagonal of the rim to the diagonal of the planar bottom surface may be 1:1 - 2:1, preferably 1.05:1 - 1.80:1, more preferably 1.1:1 - 1.7:1. In one embodiment, a baking container having a generally rectangular planar bottom surface may have a shape and size similar to an 8-inch square baking pan, a 9×13-inch baking pan, or a casserole dish.

[0250] In an alternative embodiment, the baking container may have a rounded bottom surface (i.e., non-planar), which may be used for rounded items such as cake pops, dumplings, takoyaki, popcorn balls, or kuih bahulu.

[0251] In one embodiment, the angle formed by the sidewall and the planar bottom surface is 90° - 135°, preferably 92° - 105°, more preferably 93° - 100°, but in some embodiments, the formed angle may be less than 90° or greater than 135°. In one embodiment, the angle may be relatively constant along the sidewall, for example, the angle variation may not exceed 5° of the average sidewall angle. In other embodiments, the angle may vary more.

[0252] In an embodiment where the baking container has a rectangular planar bottom surface, the sidewalls may be in the form of four quadrilaterals (e.g., four trapezoids), each quadrilateral intersecting the planar bottom surface at an angle. This angle may be similar for all four quadrilaterals, or only two or only three quadrilaterals may share a similar angle. In an alternative embodiment, all four quadrilaterals may have different angles.

[0253] In an embodiment where the baking container has a rectangular planar bottom surface and the sidewalls are in the form of four quadrilaterals, one or more fracture lines may pass through the central region of one of the four quadrilaterals. In another embodiment, one or more fracture lines may be eccentric, for example, at one-third or one-fourth of the length of the quadrilateral. Fig.46 An exemplary embodiment of a baking container having a rectangular planar bottom surface and an eccentric fracture line is shown. Fig.90An exemplary embodiment of a baking container is shown having a rectangular planar bottom face and a single eccentric fracture line. In another embodiment, one or more fracture lines may be formed along or within the corners of the sidewalls.

[0254] In one embodiment, the baking container can be used to hold cake or muffin batter during baking. However, it is contemplated that the baking container can be successfully used with several other foods, especially foods that are liquid or viscous when added to the baking container and then retain their shape within the baking container (possibly against the inner edges) after baking, cooking, cooling, drying, or standing. For example, the baking container can be used with yeast dough (such as fruit bread), unbaked dough, grains, grain-free dough, ground meat, pizza, calzone, bar cookies, dried fruits, puddings, gelatin, kuih, custard, flan, cheesecake, baked pasta, pastries, baked egg dishes, cheese, soup dumplings, chocolate, filled or layered chocolate (such as REESE′S PEANUT BUTTER CUP), fudge, candies, cheese, ice cream, frozen desserts, puffed grain snacks (such as RICE KRISPIES TREAT), dried fruit and cheese, tofu, or some other food.

[0255] In one embodiment, raw or partially prepared food can be encapsulated in the baking container and distributed for sale. Here, the food can be raw, frozen, refrigerated, dehydrated, partially baked, or may lack one or more ingredients (such as lacking water or eggs). The consumer can then prepare the food by adding the required ingredients and baking without having to use an additional container.

[0256] In one embodiment, the baking container can include a top lid or cover attached to a portion of the rim. The top lid or cover can be integral with the sidewall or attached separately. In one embodiment, the top lid or cover can be closed during baking to contain steam. Cooking or baking with the top lid or cover closed can be similar to en papillote or al cartoccio cooking, i.e., cooking within a sealed package. In another embodiment, the top lid or cover can be closed after baking to contain steam and / or heat for a longer period of time. In one embodiment, the top lid or cover can be permanently sealed or closed such that the baking container can only be opened by pulling on a strip or a pull tab.

[0257] In another embodiment, the baking container may include a lid or cover, and have holes in the flat bottom surface for steaming buns, dumplings, cakes or puddings. In another embodiment, the baking container may be lined with a base for microwave cooking. The base may include a metallized film, metal fragments or ceramics, which absorb microwave radiation and emit heat to the food by conduction or infrared irradiation, and are functionally similar to a "rim sleeve". A baking container lined with a base may be useful for browning the crust of, for example, a pastry or pie within the baking container. The baking container may be used with any type of heat source, such as but not limited to a wood-fired oven, a convection oven and an electric oven, a gas oven, a charcoal grill, a solar oven, a smokehouse, STERNO cooking fuel, a non-combustible chemical reaction or some other heat source.

[0258] In one embodiment, one or more baking containers may be formed to be attached together. For example, instead of using a standard metal baking pan for a dozen cupcakes, one could use an array of cupcake-sized baking containers linked together. Preferably, the baking containers are linked by an attachment that can be easily torn, for example, attached by paper with a break line. In one embodiment, such attached baking containers may be sold or distributed in an array of more or less than 12 baking containers, and the consumer may remove or separate the baking containers as needed before use. In another embodiment, an array of baking containers may be formed not by attaching the baking containers to each other, but by attaching them to an additional structure, or the baking containers may be placed within an additional structure.

[0259] In one embodiment, the sidewalls and / or the flat bottom surface of the baking container have a thickness of 0.05 mm - 0.70 mm, preferably 0.10 mm - 0.50 mm, more preferably 0.15 mm - 0.40 mm, but in some embodiments, the thickness may be less than 0.05 mm or greater than 0.70 mm. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness may be 0.75 mm - 0.80 mm, 0.80 mm - 0.90 mm, 0.90 mm - 1.00 mm or greater than 1.00 mm. In one embodiment, the sidewalls and / or the flat bottom surface may include only one layer of material, such as one layer of paper, but in other embodiments, the sidewalls and / or the flat bottom surface may include two or more layers of material. The two or more layers of material may be the same or different materials, and may be bonded together or not bonded.

[0260] In one embodiment, the baking container may further include an outer layer or an outer sidewall layer. Here, another layer on the inside may be considered the inner layer. In related embodiments, the baking container may include an inner layer having its own sidewalls and a planar bottom surface and an outer layer having its own sidewalls and a planar bottom surface. The inner and outer layers may include similar or different materials and may have a structure similar to the structures described herein for the baking container. In one embodiment, the inner and outer layers may have substantially the same height, but in other embodiments, the inner layer may have a perimeter-to-edge distance that is 5%-60%, 10%-50%, or 15%-40% longer than the perimeter-to-edge distance of the outer layer. In one embodiment, one of the two layers may not be torn or substantially deformed after removal and may be used as a plate for food. In some embodiments, the inner and outer layers may be textured differently, e.g., one layer may be textured while one is smooth or substantially untextured. For example, the outer layer may be ribbed while the inner layer is smooth.

[0261] In one embodiment, the inner and outer layers may be bonded at a portion of the planar bottom surface and not bonded at any portion of the sidewalls. In yet another embodiment, the inner and outer layers may be bonded at a portion of the planar bottom surface and attached, but not bonded at the upper portion of the sidewalls or at the edge. Here, the upper portion or edge of the sidewalls may have the inner and outer layers interlaced and intertwined with a cord or a strap. The cord or strap has ends configured to be grasped and pulled, and pulling the cord or strap allows a portion or all of the inner and outer layers to separate at the sidewalls. For example, the cord or strap may be woven at an intermediate position, and pulling out the cord or strap may release a flap or tab on the outer layer for pulling the inner layer and tearing it off. The baking container having the inner and outer layers may be considered to have an inner sidewall layer and an outer sidewall layer. In some embodiments, a single planar bottom surface may be connected to two sidewalls, which may have an arrangement similar to the arrangement shown in Fig. 27 the arrangement shown.

[0262] In one embodiment, the inner sidewall layer may conform to the shape of the baked good, and the outer sidewall layer may project further from the inner sidewall layer at a particular angle or distance. In one embodiment, the outer sidewall layer may include one or more flaps or projections that fold or project from the inner sidewall layer and, in the case where the layers are partially bonded, provide a grip for someone to pull on the outer sidewall layer and tear the inner layer. The flaps may be vertical, horizontal, or at some intermediate angle. In one embodiment, the outer sidewall layer may have one or more vertical flaps. Specifically, the outer sidewall layer may have vertical flaps that each have a substantially similar shape and may be positioned rotationally symmetrically around the sidewall. For example, the outer sidewall layer may have five vertical flaps that provide an aerial view similar to that of a starfish or a five-pointed star, such as FIG. 51A to FIG. 51BThe outer wall layer shown in []. In another embodiment, the outer wall layer may have an outwardly projecting loop, similar to a belt loop, a beer glass handle, or a holster, which provides a finger grip for pulling and tearing the outer wall layer. Fig.48 Figure [] shows one such embodiment, in which the outer wall layer has a section forming a loop extending outward from the inner wall layer. In a related embodiment, the outer wall layer may instead have a recess rather than a loop to provide a finger grip. In other embodiments, the outer wall layer may fold out from the inner wall layer, thereby creating a generally horizontal flap. In one case, the horizontal flap may surround the circumference of the inner wall layer, as Fig.49 shown in [].

[0263] In one embodiment, the outer wall layer may have holes through which the inner wall layer is visible. Preferably, different colors of the inner wall layer are visible. These holes may be formed in a decorative shape or a repeating pattern and may be punched or laser cut. Fig.50 Figure [] shows one such example. In a related embodiment, part or the entire outer wall layer may form a mesh, a screen, a transparent film, or a translucent film through which the inner layer is visible.

[0264] In one embodiment, the side walls, the flat bottom surface, and / or the rim of the baking container may resemble parchment paper, wax paper, greaseproof paper, or baking release paper. However, in other embodiments, the paper may resemble different types of paper, including but not limited to amate paper, scrittapaper, blotting paper, lens paper, bond paper, cardboard, cardstock, drawing paper, construction paper, cotton paper, crepe paper, d6 paper, cellophane, India paper, hanji, kraft paper, laid paper, Manila paper, newsprint, hwangji, onionskin paper, origami paper, butcher paper, rice paper, roll paper, wrapping paper, carbon paper, thermal paper, toilet paper, tracing paper, calendar paper, washi paper, linen paper, cardboard, and xuan paper. In another embodiment, the baking container may comprise an oven-safe and food-safe non-paper material, such as crystalline PET, silicone, or a metal foil, such as aluminum. In other embodiments, the side walls, the flat bottom surface, and / or the rim may comprise the fibers or other materials listed previously for ropes and straps.

[0265] In one embodiment of the baking container, the sidewall is smooth, grooved, folded, ribbed, corrugated or pleated. In additional embodiments, these structures on the sidewall can be decorative or can serve, for example, in providing strength to the sidewall or allowing the baking container to be formed from a single piece of material.

[0266] In one embodiment, the baking container has sidewalls that enable the baking container to self-support, which means that the baking container can be placed on a flat surface and the food inside will not unfavorably deform the sidewalls. In this embodiment, the baking container does not have to be used as a liner within a flat pan. For example, a baking container in the shape of a cupcake can be placed on a cookie sheet in an oven rather than within a cupcake pan. As another example, the baking container can be used like a pie plate or pie baking pan.

[0267] In one embodiment, the baking container can be made of an edible material such that the baking container can optionally be removed prior to consumption. In this embodiment, the baking container can comprise vegetable starches from rice, potato, corn, cassava, sorghum, wheat, tapioca, arrowroot, yam, sweet potato, or from some other fruit, grain or vegetable. In related embodiments, the string, pull tab or strap of the baking container can comprise an edible material. For example, the pull tab can be made of hard candy or the strap can be made of licorice.

[0268] In one embodiment, the sidewall and / or the flat bottom surface of the baking container can have a corrugated layer between two flat layers, similar to corrugated fiberboard or boxboard. In other embodiments, the baking container can not be designed for baking or cooking but can be used as food packaging. In this embodiment, other food-safe materials can be used, which can additionally be heat-sensitive, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA) or poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA).

[0269] In one embodiment, the baking container comprises only recyclable materials, or the baking container comprises only compostable materials (such as plant fibers and PLGA). In one embodiment, the baking container comprises only natural or unchemically treated materials. For example, the baking container can comprise paper from natural sources or recycled paper. The baking container can comprise unbleached paper.

[0270] In one embodiment, the interior of the baking container can be coated and / or impregnated with a food-grade release agent. In some embodiments, the food-grade release agent can be vegetable oil or starch. In another embodiment, a barrier layer can be added, such as a film consisting of bleached kraft paper, low-density polyethylene, aluminum foil or a sealant. Alternatively, a liner can be inserted into the baking container after the baking container is fully or partially formed. In related embodiments, the interior of the baking container can be textured such that food does not adhere to the interior of the sidewall or the flat bottom surface. Alternatively, the interior can be textured to assist baking.

[0271] In one embodiment, the interior and / or exterior of the baking container may include graphic processing or decorative textures. This includes, but is not limited to, printing, spraying, dipping, staining, brushing, embossing, etching, coating, matte coating, gloss coating, high-gloss coating, irradiation, burning, embossing, and / or intaglio printing. Additionally, special inks may be used, such as thermochromic inks, photochromic inks, fluorescent inks, and / or phosphorescent inks. In related embodiments, the interior and / or exterior of the baking container may include decorations, advertisements, graphics, pictures, text, or different colors. In one embodiment, the interior of the sidewall may include coupons or customized messages that may or may not be located on the interior of a strip. In one embodiment, the interior decorations, advertisements, graphics, pictures, text, or colors are not visible from the exterior of the baking container such that they may not be revealed until the sidewall is opened. However, in another embodiment, this interior decoration may be visible from the exterior portion.

[0272] In some embodiments, the baking container may consist of a limited number of features. While several of the features described above are combinable, embodiments are possible where some features are not intentionally combined or multiplied. For example, the baking container may have only one tear strip. In another embodiment, the baking container may have only one folding tab, strap, cord, sticker, or pull tab for gripping. In another embodiment, the baking container may be made of only one type of material (such as one type of paper), and / or may have only one sidewall and a flat bottom surface (i.e., the baking container is not multi-layered).

[0273] Reference is now made to the drawings, where like reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts throughout several views.

[0274] Figure 1A 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 3A 、 Figure 4A and Figure 5A represent side views of a baking container 10 having Figure 1B 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 3B 、 Figure 4B and Figure 5B corresponding top views.

[0275] Figure 1A and Figure 1B illustrate a baking container 10 having a flat bottom surface 12 with a perimeter 14, a sidewall 16, an edge 18, and a fracture line 20 forming a strip 22. Here, the fracture line 20 extends only from the edge 18 to a first point pair 24 on the perimeter 14. The strip may be configured to be torn from either or both ends.

[0276] Figure 2A and Figure 2B illustrate a baking container similar toFigure 1A and Figure 1B a baking container 10, except that the tear line 20 extends from a first pair of points 24 on the perimeter 14 to a second pair of points 26 within the perimeter 14 of the planar bottom face 12. The strip may be configured to be torn from either or both ends.

[0277] Figure 3A and Figure 3B illustrates a baking container 10 similar to Figure 2A and Figure 2B except that the tear line 20 further extends to a third pair of points 28 located on the side of the perimeter opposite the first pair of points 24. The strip may be configured to be torn from either or both ends.

[0278] Figure 4A and Figure 4B illustrates a baking container 10 similar to Figure 3A and Figure 3B except that the tear line 20 further extends to a fourth pair of points 30 located on the side of the sidewall opposite the first pair of points 24. The strip may be configured to be torn from either or both ends. In one embodiment, the end of the strip near the third pair of points may form a pinch point from which it will be torn, similar to the pinch point 36 shown in Figure 13 .

[0279] Figure 5A and Figure 5B illustrates a baking container 10 similar to Figure 4A and Figure 4B except that the tear line 20 further extends to a fifth pair of points 32 located on the side of the rim opposite the side where the tear line initially extends. The strip may be configured to be torn from either or both ends and may be symmetrically designed so that each end is indistinguishable.

[0280] Figure 6A and Figure 6B illustrate corresponding side and top views of the baking container 10. This embodiment features a tab 34 that extends slightly beyond the rim 18. In this embodiment, the strip 22 formed by the tear line extends from the rim across to the perimeter and then continues along a portion of the perimeter. In effect, someone pulling on the tab 34 will pull out the strip 22, thereby partially separating the bottom planar face 12 from the sidewall 16. In some embodiments, the strip along the perimeter or circumference of the sidewall may be along a complete circle, major arc, or minor arc. Figures 7A to 7B and Figure 9 illustrate an embodiment where the strip is almost along a complete circle.

[0281] In one embodiment, the strip 22 may intersect a single tear line that spans the complete perimeter of the sidewall. Figure 8A One such example is shown in the baking container 10 ofFigure 8B ) where the bottom part can still be attached to the baked good or used as a plate. Figure 8B Also shown is a separated upper part of the sidewall 16 that has a printed label 38 on its inner surface. Figure 9 and Figure 55 Related embodiments are shown where the baking container 10 can be configured to tear and leave a bottom part 54 that is completely separated from the sidewall. In these embodiments, the bottom part can have a height that is 5% - 50%, preferably 10% - 45%, more preferably 15% - 40% of the total height of the sidewall, but in some embodiments, the bottom part can have a height less than 5% or greater than 50%. In some embodiments, the bottom planar surface of the baking container when completely separated can resemble an open spring - clip flat plate.

[0282] Figure 10 and 11 Different baking containers 10 are shown where two or more strips 22 are present and span across respective paths. In Figure 10 , the strips can be configured such that one strip 22 (e.g., a vertical strip) can be completely torn off without pulling the sides of the orthogonal strip 22 (e.g., a horizontal strip). In another embodiment, two strips 22 can be reinforced together such that all the strips 22 are torn off together. In Figure 11 , the strips 22 can be reinforced or connected together such that pulling one strip 22 will pull out the other two strips. However, in some embodiments, two or more strips 22 can be parallel or can be arranged in an eccentric or asymmetric pattern. In related embodiments, the baking container can have radially - arranged strips to achieve uniform cutting or portioning. For example, the baking container can be the size of a standard pie pan and can have three radially - arranged strips to form six central angles each approximately 60°, or four radially - arranged strips to form eight central angles each approximately 45°.

[0283] Figure 12 An embodiment of a baking container 10 with a strip 22 having a pull tab 34 is shown, where the strip 22 traverses the sidewall 16, reaches the planar bottom surface 12, and then traverses the sidewall at the other end. In this embodiment, the strip is not centered across the planar bottom surface 12. Since this arrangement completely separates the baking container into two parts, either of the two parts can remain on the food. In other embodiments, both ends of the strip can have pull tabs or neither end can have a pull tab.

[0284] Figure 13 A baking container 10 is shown where the fracture lines and strips are along a pattern similar to Figure 3B or Figure 4BThe path of the path. The difference here is that the end of the strip near the bottom surface 12 of the plane forms a pinch point 36, such that the strip can be easily grasped and pulled away from the portion of the baking container. In this embodiment, the pinch point 36 is designed to protrude through a folded piece, a wrinkle, or an extension, which is created by adhering additional material (e.g., like a sticker). In one embodiment, the pinch point 36 has a long and narrow sticker adhered at one end, where lifting and pulling from the other end creates a tear in a specific direction. In another embodiment, the pinch point may not be designed to protrude, but the end of the strip at that location may be easily flattened due to its position on the bottom edge of the baking container. In some embodiments, the pinch point 36 may be colored differently from the rest of the baking container, such that the consumer can more easily locate the pinch point 36. In other embodiments, the pinch point may have a roughened or treated surface to make it easier to grasp, especially in cases where the exterior of the baking container comes into contact with oil or grease.

[0285] Figure 14 A baking container 10 is shown having a pinch point 36 at an intermediate position on the sidewall 16. As Figure 13 in, the pinch point can protrude through a folded piece, a wrinkle, or a material directly attached to the sidewall. Figure 14 Allows the baking container to be torn downward and along the bottom, but this structure can also be configured with additional break lines to enable a tear upward from the pinch point.

[0286] Figure 15 A baking container 10 is shown having a circumferential folded piece 58 or a pinch point. This folded piece can extend around the baking container in a full circle, but in some embodiments, the folded piece may be along a portion of the sidewall. Figure 15 A circumferential folded piece is shown that is generally parallel to the planar bottom surface, but in other embodiments, the folded piece can be angled. In some embodiments, the circumferential folded piece can be decorated as a ring of a planet, or shaped like a petal. Figure 15 A tear strip 22 starting from the folded piece is shown, and in some embodiments, multiple tear strips can exist starting from the circumferential folded piece. In some embodiments, the circumferential folded piece may not protrude, but instead may fold down or downward along the surface of the sidewall. In some embodiments, the circumferential folded piece can be regarded as a sheath, and there can be more than one circumferential folded piece, similar to a ruffle or the neck of a flexible straw.

[0287] Figure 16A and Figure 16B A baking container 10 is shown having a bottom-folded pull tab 60 at the bottom side 62 of the planar bottom surface. Together with Figure 13 the pinch point depicted in, this bottom-folded piece configuration can provide a means of hiding the pull tab connected to the strip 22.

[0288] Figure 17A A longitudinal cross-sectional view of a baking container 10 is shown having a recessed bottom 64 with a bottom fold tab 60. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the bottom fold tab 60 does not lie flat against the bottom of the baking container, thereby enabling it to be more easily lifted by a finger. Figure 17B Shown Figure 17A A bottom view of the baking container 10. Here, the bottom fold tab 60 can first be torn across the bottom of the planar bottom surface 62 and then torn upward along the sidewall, similar to Figure 3B the path of the strip 22 shown in

[0289] Figures 18 to 22 A different embodiment of the baking container 10 is shown having a bottom fold tab 60 attached to the strip 22. Figures 19 to 22 A baking container having one strip is shown, but it is equally conceivable that more than one bottom fold tab 60 can be present and each attached to a strip. Specifically, each fold tab at the bottom 62 can be a bottom fold tab 60 attached to a strip, as depicted in Figure 18 . The bottom fold tabs on the baking container can have straight edges or curved edges. In some cases, the bottom fold tabs can be designed to resemble petals, as in Figure 20 and Figure 21 , where tearing the strip 22 can simulate plucking the petals. In some situations, additional decoration 66 can be added to the bottom side 62 of the planar bottom surface to emphasize this effect. For some baking containers, the bottom fold tabs can result from the shaping of the sidewall and the planar bottom surface itself. For example, a cylindrical or frustoconical baking container can be formed from a single sheet of parchment paper. This shaping can involve folding portions of the sidewall and the planar bottom surface, and here, one or more fold tabs on the bottom can be made at positions corresponding to the break lines.

[0290] Figures 23 to 28 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of a baking container 10 having a different sidewall construction is shown. Figure 23 For the baking container 10, the sidewall 16 and the planar bottom surface 12 are formed from a single block of material. Figure 24 , Figure 25 , Figure 27 and Figure 28 Different embodiments are shown where the baking container 10 is formed from two blocks of material connected together, for example, by adhesives and / or rolled edge fold tabs. Figure 24 and Figure 25 Show a U-shaped planar bottom portion 68 that can be enclosed by the sidewall 16 (as in Figure 24 ) or can be located outside the sidewall 16 (as in Figure 25 ).

[0291] Figures 26 to 28Depict a baking container 10 having a recessed bottom space 64, which is created by positioning a planar bottom surface at a height above the bottom edge of the sidewall 16. This configuration of the recessed bottom and Figure 24 and Figure 25 the configuration of the baking container 10 can be similar to a common paper cup, and the sidewall can be formed by rolling a flat piece of material into a cylinder.

[0292] Figure 26 Show a baking container 10 having a sidewall 16, an inverted U-shaped bottom portion 70, and a U-shaped inner portion 68. Similarly, it has been envisioned that the style of the baking container 10 can be similar to Figure 26 , but only the two U-shaped and inverted U-shaped inner portions (68, 70) are connected together.

[0293] Figure 27 Show an embodiment of the baking container 10, where the U-shaped planar bottom 68 can have sides extending upward along the inside of the sidewall from its perimeter.

[0294] Figure 28 Show another embodiment, where the planar bottom portion 70 is in an inverted U position.

[0295] Figure 29 For a baking container 10 in which a break line 20 and a strip 22 traverse the sidewall at an angle such that the break line and the strip additionally follow the curvature of the sidewall. In this embodiment, a continuous block of the sidewall can be peeled away from the food. The strip 22 can encircle less than once (e.g., cover an arc of 270° - 310°), approximately once, or more than once. In related embodiments, the break line 20 or the strip 22 can encircle the sidewall 16 of, for example, a rectangular baking container. The break lines 20 encircling the baking container 10 may or may not maintain a fixed spacing from each other. In one embodiment, the break lines 20 encircling the baking container 10 can have a varying spacing or form different patterns. In one embodiment, the baking container 10 having a circumferential break line 20 can be twisted by a user, e.g., twist the top relative to the bottom, similar to opening a wide-mouth jar. This twisting motion can break one or more segments of one or more break lines. Then it may be easier to remove the baking container 10. In related embodiments, the baking container can have a strip 22 along a zigzag path or a path having several angles and / or turns. This strip 22 may be able to cover a significant portion of the surface area of the baking container and may be more useful for removing the baking container compared to a straight strip 22. Preferably, the strip having a zigzag path or several turns and / or angles is reinforced with a cord or a strap. Figure 30 For Figure 29 a variant of the baking container 10, except that the strip 22 is configured to be pulled from a pull tab 34 at the bottom.

[0296] Figures 31 to 37The baking container 10 is shown with different designs of strips and pull tabs, some of which may be considered decorative or ornamental.

[0297] Figure 31 The baking container 10 is shown with a pull tab 34 in the shape of a zipper pull tab or having an embossed image of a zipper pull tab. A decorative print 38 may form non-functional zipper teeth.

[0298] Figure 32 Shown Figure 31 A variant of the baking container 10 depicted in, except that the pull tab 34 is configured to be pulled from the bottom.

[0299] Figure 33 The baking container 10 is shown with an enlarged pull tab 34 that forms part of a decoration with a printed design 38. In this embodiment, either or both pull tabs can be used to open the baking container. Preferably, the pull tab is sized such that a young child can easily grasp the pull tab and open the baking container by themselves.

[0300] Figure 34 A variant of the baking container 10 with decorative elements is shown. Here, one or more stickers can be attached to the bottom portion of one or more strips. These stickers can be used as decorative and / or enlarged pull tabs 34.

[0301] Figure 35 Another embodiment of the baking container 10 with an enlarged pull tab 34 is shown. It has been envisioned that the pull tab 34 can be formed in any kind of shape for different occasions. In some embodiments, the pull tab can be decorated or modified after baking. For example, a number, message, or person's name can be written on the pull tab 34. In some embodiments, the pull tab may not be flat material but can be folded or formed into a three-dimensional shape.

[0302] Figure 36 Another embodiment of the baking container 10 with an enlarged decorative pull tab 34 is shown. In this situation, the pull tab can be more easily pulled from the bottom of the baking container.

[0303] Figure 37 The pull tab is shown in the form of a loop 40. Other shaped pull tabs with holes can also be constructed to provide a grip for the pull tab 34 to facilitate tearing the strip 22 from the baking container.

[0304] Figure 38 An embodiment of the baking container with straight sides is shown, where the width of the edge 18 is approximately the same as the width of the perimeter. In this embodiment, the pull tab 34 extends from the edge but is designed to fold down or lie flat against the strip 22 or the side wall 16. Additionally, this embodiment shows an edge 18 with ridges or corrugations. In related embodiments, having a similar to Figure 38The baked container in the appearance may not have a tab extending from the edge, but may have a tab extending from the flat bottom surface or from the periphery. Additionally, the baked container may have a tab that can be folded at any angle relative to the nearest fracture line 20, for example, forming a minimum angle within the ranges of 0°-5°, 5°-10°, 10°-30°, 30°-60°, 60°-90°, 90°-120°, 120°-150°, 150°-170°, 170°-180°. In some embodiments, the ridges or corrugations in the edge can be created by grooving or curling the sidewalls. In other embodiments, the ridges or corrugations in the edge can be created by directly cutting the shape into the baked container. Other baked containers can have edges with other shapes, including but not limited to waves, lace, tears, protrusions, grooves, step functions, and serrations. In these embodiments, the tab (if present) may or may not form part of the edge pattern.

[0305] Figure 39 An embodiment of the baked container 10 with non-parallel fracture lines 20 is shown. In this particular embodiment, the fracture lines 20 have similar interior angles, but in other embodiments, the fracture lines 20 can have unequal angles and the directions can be towards or away from each other, and can form symmetric or asymmetric shapes of the strip 22. In this embodiment, where the width of the strip 22 increases towards the periphery 14, the enlarged strip can enable a person to more quickly remove most of the baked container 10 from the food, or otherwise open most of the baked container 10. In a related embodiment, the surface area of the strip 22 removed from the baked container 10 can be almost equal to the surface area of the remaining baked container. In another embodiment, the strip 22 removed from the baked container 10 can have a surface area greater than that of the remaining baked container 10. In another related embodiment, when removing the strip 22 from the baked container 10, the width of the strip can continue to increase. In other related embodiments, the fracture lines 20 can be placed to form strips 22 of different shapes. For example, the strip 22 can be enlarged to form a space for placing a logo, or the strip 22 can be enlarged to form the outline of a money sign ($), where the rectangular segment of the strip forms the vertical line in the money sign.

[0306] In another embodiment, the interior of the strip can carry decorations or markings, and the width of the strip can be sized to allow for different decorations or messages. In these embodiments, preferably, the message or decoration is not visible from outside the baked container 10. Such interior decorations on the strip can include numbers (e.g., numbers for lucky draws, games, or random group assignments), mythical beasts, good luck, cartoon characters, religious verses, mathematical equations, or customized messages. Figure 8BShows a related embodiment, where the inner part of the upper sidewall has a label 38. In some embodiments, both the interior of the strip and the inner part of the sidewall can carry decorations or markings.

[0307] Figure 40 Shows an embodiment of a baking container 10 with a reinforcing strap 42 that forms a tear line 20, where the reinforcing strap is located within the sidewall. Here, the reinforcing strap 42 adds tensile strength to the otherwise weak sidewall 16 and / or the flat bottom surface 12 of the baking container 10. In this embodiment, a weakened or perforated tear line may not be necessary because the sidewall 16 can be torn with a small amount of force. Thus, the sidewall will tear along both sides of the reinforcing strap 42.

[0308] Figure 41 Shows another baking container 10 that stores food 44. In this embodiment, the tear line 20 and the strip 22 are not connected to any part of the edge 18. Instead, the tear line 20 and the pull tab 34 are located at a mid - position on the sidewall 16. In this and similar embodiments, it has been envisioned that the baking container 10 does not require a controlled tear that starts or ends at the edge 18. Instead, using the strip 22 to tear only at a mid - position on the baking container 10 is sufficient, at which point an uncontrolled tear can easily complete the remaining path. Or, the strip 22 is only used for a controlled tear at the mid - position, and then the consumer can tear or remove the other sides of the baking container by other means. In this embodiment, preferably, the strip has a pull tab 34 or a pinch point.

[0309] Figure 42 Shows an embodiment of a baking container 10 with a tear line 20 created by a cord 46. In other words, both sides of the strip 22 or the strip itself are reinforced by the cord 46. Here, the cord is attached within the sidewall 16. In this embodiment, pulling the pull tab 34 pulls indirectly on the cord 46 and tears the strip 22 along the tear line 20. However, in other embodiments, the cord 46 itself can be pulled along the tear line 20, and the pull tab 34 may or may not be present. In some embodiments, the two tear lines 20 may not be formed by two cords 46, but by a single cord that is looped and reversed in direction. In this embodiment, the ends of the looped cord can be pulled directly to tear off the strip 22.

[0310] Figure 43An embodiment of a baking container 10 is shown, where a single cord 48 reinforces the strip 22 between two score lines. In this embodiment, the cord can be abutted against the inside of the sidewall, or can be adhered to the inside of the sidewall, or can be placed within the sidewall. In this embodiment, the sidewall is weakened along the score line, or the strip is reinforced by other materials. This score line weakening or strip reinforcement is needed to prevent the cord from tearing the sidewall directly along its contact line and instead cause a tear along the score line 20. This embodiment can be similar to using a reinforcing strap Figure 40 , but can have the advantage of lower cost or less material used overall.

[0311] Figure 44 An embodiment of a baking container 10 having a single score line 20 is shown. Here, the score line 20 is created by a cord 46 having a loop 40. The cord can be abutted against the inside of the sidewall, or can be adhered to the inside of the sidewall, or can be placed within the sidewall. In this embodiment, the score line 20 may or may not be weakened. In some embodiments, the sidewall 16 is weak enough such that pulling the cord against the sidewall will result in a controlled tear just along the path of the cord. Similar to the pull tab discussed in the earlier embodiment, the loop 40 can be ornamental or can be a piece of paper attached to the cord.

[0312] Figure 45 An embodiment of a baking container 10 having a single score line 20 is shown and is similar to Figure 44 's embodiment, except that there is no loop or other structure at the end of the cord. The cord can be abutted against the inside of the sidewall, or can be adhered to the inside of the sidewall, or can be placed within the sidewall. In this embodiment, the score line 20 may or may not be weakened. In some embodiments, the sidewall 16 is weak enough such that pulling the cord against the sidewall will result in a controlled tear just along the path of the cord. For Figure 43 , Figure 44 , and Figure 45 , it has also been envisioned that the cord can have a free end near the planar bottom surface and the cord can be pulled from said free end.

[0313] In the case where there is a single score line instead of two score lines forming a strip Figure 44 and Figure 45 , it has been envisioned that any of the baking container embodiments discussed herein can simplify a separate strip to a single score line or simplify a portion of a separate strip to a single score line. These single score lines may or may not be created by a cord.

[0314] Figure 46An embodiment of a baking container 10 is shown having a rectangular perimeter 14 and an edge 18. Here, a strip 22 wraps around from one sidewall to the opposite sidewall. Here, the strip 22 is eccentrically positioned, but in other embodiments, the strip may be centered. This type of baking container 10 can be considered a baking container 10 for a strip cake. In some embodiments, the strip 22 for this baking container 10 may traverse at an angle, or more than one strip 22 may be present to sequentially remove portions of the baking container 10 to allow for even cutting or to more easily enable the entire baking container 10 to be removed in one piece.

[0315] Figure 47 An embodiment of a baking container 10 is shown having a single break line 20 and a lid 50 attached to the edge. Here, the lid is formed as an integral block of the sidewall 16, but in other embodiments, the lid may be formed separately and attached. The lid may be connected by a living hinge, but other arrangements may be used. The ends of the lid may have folding inserts 52 to guide the closing of the lid or to lock or fasten the lid in the closed position. The insert may be inserted into a slot or other structure in the sidewall 16, and in some embodiments, this slot or other structure may form part of a strip or break line for tearing and opening the baking container 10. For example, the insert may lock the closed lid and then act as a pull tab for tearing and opening the baking container 10.

[0316] Figures 48 to 51B A different embodiment of a baking container 10 is shown having an inner sidewall layer and an outer sidewall layer. Figure 48 A baking container 10 is shown having food 44. The inner sidewall layer 72 is smooth and projects above the outer sidewall layer 74, which may be grooved. The outer sidewall forms an annulus 78 projecting from the inner sidewall layer, and the annulus is integral with the break line 20.

[0317] Figure 49 A baking container 10 is shown having a grooved inner sidewall layer 72 and a smooth outer sidewall layer 74. The outer sidewall layer has a circumferential folding tab 58, similar to Figure 15 , from which the outer sidewall layer may be torn along the break line 20.

[0318] Figure 50 A baking container 10 is shown in which the inner sidewall layer 72 and the outer sidewall layer 74 are differently colored. The outer sidewall layer 74 has a die-cut shape 76 through which the inner sidewall layer is visible. In some embodiments, the die-cut shape may form a path or part of a path for tearing or removing the baking container. However, in other embodiments, the die-cut shape may not intersect the tear path, and a printed shape (such as Figure 50 the decoration 38 in

[0319] Figure 51AA top view of the baking container 10 showing the starfish-shaped outer wall layer 74 and the cylindrical inner wall layer 72 is presented. Figure 51B A corresponding perspective view is shown. Here, the outer wall layer has a protruding tab 80 that can be grasped and pulled to remove or open the baking container 10. In some embodiments, the inner wall layer and / or the outer wall layer may include a score line. In similar embodiments, the outer wall layer may have one or any number or arrangement of protrusions protruding from the inner wall layer. In some embodiments, the protrusions may be rotationally symmetric and may form shapes such as a propeller, a marine creature, or a flower.

[0320] Figures 52 to 57 An embodiment of the baking container 10 with side walls held closed at the seam 82 is shown. The baking container 10 with a seam can be opened, peeled, and torn from the top or bottom corner 84, as Figure 52 and Figure 53 shown. In some embodiments, both the top and bottom corners 84 can be configured for tearing, or any position along the seam can be peeled open. This action of opening the baking container from the seam can be similar to turning the pages of a book or similar to peeling the label off a soup can. In some embodiments, the edges or corners of the seam for peeling may not be glued, or may have tabs, pull tabs, strings, or bands (such as the tabs, pull tabs, strings, or bands previously described) to initiate opening the baking container.

[0321] Although a baking container with side wall seams may not need to be configured with perforated score lines or designated tear paths, it is preferred. Imagine the difficulty of removing a check from a checkbook or a tissue from a tissue roll without a controlled tear path. Figure 54 and Figure 55 Each shows an embodiment where peeling from the seam can result in a controlled tear along a designated score line (e.g., a score line formed by perforations). In Figure 54 , tearing upward from the bottom seam corner will tear the side wall along the diagonal score line 20. In Figure 55 , opening from the seam 82 will result in a tear along the circumferential score line 56, and the tear may leave the bottom section 54.

[0322] A baking container with a seam can be glued, but in some embodiments, it can be closed at the seam by lugs or buttons. Figure 56 A baking container 10 closed by a lug 52 pushed through a slot 88 is shown, and Figure 57Shows the baking container 10 closed by the symmetric fastener 86. Other structures and fasteners for closing the seam may be possible. To remove the food, the consumer may unfasten the fastener, but in some embodiments, the fastener may be more ornamental than functional, and some other method of removing the food may be used, such as any of the methods described previously.

[0323] Figures 58 to 71 Shows a different embodiment of the baking container 10 having a pull tab 34 and a notch 90. Figure 58 Shows the rectangular pull tab 34 connected to the end of the wide tear strip 22. The tear line 20 is not connected at its end in the side wall, and the strip can only be pulled down to the end of the tear line or to an intermediate position. However, the strip can be pulled further down beyond the end of the tear line and around the planar bottom surface. Figure 59 Shows an embodiment of the baking container 10 having a tear line 20 that connects the ends of the tear lines defining the wide tear strip 22. Here, the strip 22 can be torn off with clean edges or folded down across the tear line.

[0324] Figure 60 and Figure 61 Each shows the baking container 10 having different arrangements of the tear line 20 that at least connects the edge and the perimeter and defines both sides of the wide tear strip 22. Figure 60 Shows how the notch 90 can define the top of the tear strip: by indicating the position of the tear line or by forming both sides of the pull tab (as in Figure 61 ) Figure 61 and Figure 62 Shows the path of the tear lines that are not parallel to each other, thus forming a strip with a varying width.

[0325] Figure 63 Shows an example of the baking container 10 having a single tear line 20 that at least connects from the edge to the perimeter and is indicated by a V-shaped notch 90 in the edge. The notch 90 can help form an initial tear by weakening the edge at the position of the tear line or can form a visual or tactile cue for the position of the tear line on the baking container.

[0326] Figure 64 and Figure 65 Shows different embodiments of the baking container 10 having different pull tabs and wide tear strips 22. In Figure 64 , the tear strip 22 is defined by a notch 90 at the top and a curved tear line 20 at the bottom. Similarly, it has been envisioned that for any baking container, any tear strip on the side wall can continue to the planar bottom surface and / or can further continue up the side wall on the opposite side of the baking container. In Figure 65In [the container], the tear strip 22 is defined by a textured and non-rectangular pull tab 92 at the top and a hinge 96 at the bottom. The tear strip 22 can be torn to an intermediate position, or all the way to the hinge, or even beyond the hinge 96.

[0327] Figure 66 and Figure 67 An embodiment of a baking container is shown having a generally vertical pull tab and a generally horizontal fracture line. However, other embodiments may have a pull tab at an angle to the vertical direction and a fracture line at an angle to the horizontal direction. In Figure 66 [the container], the textured pull tab 92 is connected to a horizontal fracture line 56 which is connected to the hinge 96. The side wall can then be opened like a door. In Figure 67 [the container], a textured pull tab 92 having an extension 94 is connected to a horizontal and circumferential fracture line 56. Opening the Figure 67 baking container 10 along the fracture line leaves a bottom portion 54.

[0328] Figure 68 and Figure 69 [the figures] each show a baking container 10 having a curved side wall fracture line 122. In Figure 68 [the container], the fracture line reaches the edge at both the notch 90 and the folding pull tab 34. In Figure 69 [the container], the textured pull tab 92 is located at the bottom of the fracture line 122 such that the baking container 10 can be opened by tearing the fracture line 122 from the bottom (i.e., the perimeter of the flat bottom surface) to the top. In other embodiments, the pull tab can be located on the flat bottom surface rather than on the side wall.

[0329] Figure 70 [the figure] shows a baking container 10 having a wide tear strip 22 defined by two fracture lines 20 which are connected by curved fracture line segments. Here, it may also be possible to describe the tear strip as being defined by a single fracture line. Additionally, in this embodiment, the edge 18 has a folding pull tab 34 with a hinge 96, and the pull tab is defined by a rectangular notch 90 in the edge.

[0330] Figure 71 [the figure] shows a baking container 10 having a tear strip 22 defined by a fracture line 20 connected to a notch 90 in the edge 18. The strip additionally has a bottom pull tab 60 with a hinge 96. The bottom pull tab can be attached by an adhesive.

[0331] Figure 72A and Figure 72BView showing the baking container 10 having a portion of the side wall in the form of a tongue 98 that can be inserted between the side wall 16 and the food and held in place. This tongue portion 98 can be regarded as similar to a tear strip and can have a pull tab. The bottom of the tongue can be connected to the inside of the side wall or to the flat bottom surface 12. Here, the bottom of the tongue is connected at the hinge portion 96 and the tongue 98 is not connected at its two sides. In other variants, the tongue can be connected by a foldable material or by an adhesive. Open Figure 72A and Figure 72B The baking containers shown in can be similar to those embodiments described for wide tear strips (such as Figure 58 and Figure 65 ).

[0332] Figure 73A 、 Figure 74A 、 Figure 75A 、 Figure 76A and Figure 77A represent side views of the baking container 10 having Figure 73B 、 Figure 74B 、 Figure 75B 、 Figure 76B and Figure 77B corresponding top views.

[0333] Figure 73A and Figure 73B show the baking container 10 having a flat bottom surface 12 with a perimeter 14, side walls 16, a rim 18, and a tear line 20. Here, the tear line 20 extends only from the rim 18 to a first point 100 on the perimeter 14. The tear line can be configured to tear from either or both ends.

[0334] Figure 74A and Figure 74B show a baking container 10 similar to Figure 73A and Figure 73B except that the tear line 20 extends from the first point 100 on the perimeter 14 to a second point 102 within the perimeter 14 of the flat bottom surface 12. The tear line can be configured to tear from either or both ends.

[0335] Figure 75A and Figure 75B show a baking container 10 similar to Figure 74A and Figure 74B except that the tear line 20 further extends to a third point 104 on the side of the perimeter opposite the first point 100. The tear line can be configured to tear from either or both ends.

[0336] Figure 76A and Figure 76B show a baking container 10 similar to Figure 75A and Figure 75BThe baking container 10, except that the fracture line 20 further extends to a fourth point 106 located on the side of the side wall opposite to the first point 100. The fracture line can be configured to tear from either or both ends.

[0337] Figure 77A and Figure 77B shows a baking container 10 similar to Figure 76A and Figure 76B except that the fracture line 20 further extends to a fifth point 108 located on the side of the edge opposite to where the fracture line initially extends. The fracture line can be configured to tear from either or both ends and can be designed symmetrically so that each end is indistinguishable. Alternatively, Figure 77A and Figure 77B can be considered similar to Figure 75A and Figure 75B except that the fracture line further extends from the third point 104 to the fifth point 108.

[0338] Figure 78 shows a baking container 10 similar to Figure 77A and Figure 77B except that the fracture line 110 across the planar bottom surface 12 does not evenly divide the area of the planar bottom surface. The fracture line on the planar bottom surface connects two points on the perimeter with a straight line, but the straight line is not a diameter.

[0339] Figures 79 to 82 shows a baking container 10 having a single fracture line that connects from the edge 18 to the planar bottom surface 12 and to the opposite edge. Figure 79 and Figure 80 more specifically shows a curved fracture line 112 that is similar to an arc or a bow, while Figure 81 shows a wavy fracture line 114. Figure 82 has a curved fracture line 112 and a straight fracture line segment on the planar bottom surface; the curved fracture line is located on concentric curves.

[0340] Figure 83 shows an embodiment of a baking container 10 having a curved fracture line 116 on the planar bottom surface that extends parallel to a portion of the perimeter 14. In some embodiments, the fracture line can extend parallel to the entire perimeter, while in other embodiments, the fracture line can extend parallel to only 5%-98%, 20%-97%, or 50%-96% of the total length of the perimeter. In other embodiments, two or more segments of the perimeter can be formed with fracture lines. Additionally, Figure 83 shows a fracture line connecting the edge to the perimeter that does not form a substantially perpendicular angle with the edge or the perimeter.

[0341] Figure 84 andFigure 85 A baking container 10 is shown having a break line 118 that intersects at the geometric centroid on the planar bottom face 12. However, intersecting break lines can intersect at the perimeter, sidewall, or any other location on the planar bottom face.

[0342] Figure 86 A baking container 10 is shown having a break line 120 that intersects other break lines but does not connect to the perimeter 14 or the planar bottom face 12.

[0343] Figures 87 to 89 Embodiments of baking containers 10 are shown each having a curved sidewall break line 122 of a certain kind. Figure 87 The curved sidewall break line intersects the rim at a small angle (less than 30°) and intersects the perimeter at a generally perpendicular angle. Figure 88 and Figure 89 The curved sidewall break line intersects the perimeter at a small angle and intersects the rim at a generally perpendicular angle. Figure 88 and Figure 89 In one aspect, it is distinguished by the curved sidewall break line bending in different directions. Although Figure 88 and Figure 89 each have a straight break line segment on the planar bottom face 12, Figure 87 has a serrated, zigzag break line on the planar bottom face. In some embodiments, the break line on the sidewall of the baking container can be serrated or zigzag.

[0344] Figure 90 A baking container 10 is shown having a rectangular planar bottom face 12 and an eccentric single break line 110 that is connected in a rim-to-rim manner at a notch 90.

[0345] Figure 91 A baking container 10 is shown having a pentagonal planar bottom face 12 and a break line having a curved segment 112 on the planar bottom face. The curved segment and the additional break line are intersecting break lines 118.

[0346] Figure 92 A baking container 10 is shown having a stadium-shaped planar bottom face 12 and a plurality of non-intersecting rim-to-rim break lines 110. It has also been envisioned that the baking container can have a planar bottom face shape that is not convex and can have sidewalls and rims with shapes different from the planar bottom face. For example, a baking container having a rectangular perimeter can have a circular or arcuate rim. A baking container having an angular rim can have a circular planar bottom face. The sidewall can additionally have protrusions, recesses, and / or pleats.

[0347] Figure 93A baking container 10 is shown having a single break line 20 extending from an edge 18 to a first point pair 126 on a sidewall 16. A horizontal and circumferential break line 56 starting from the first point pair forms a horizontal strip 22. In this embodiment, opening the baking container may leave a bottom portion 54.

[0348] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are as follows:

[0349] Embodiment 1: A baking container comprising:

[0350] A planar bottom surface having a perimeter;

[0351] A sidewall extending from the perimeter to an edge; and

[0352] A break line extending from the edge to a first point on the perimeter and from the first point on the perimeter to a second point within the perimeter on the planar bottom surface,

[0353] wherein the break line is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal and / or consumption of the baked food contained therein.

[0354] Embodiment 2: The baking container of Embodiment 1, wherein the break line further extends to a third point on a side of the perimeter opposite the first point.

[0355] Embodiment 3: The baking container of Embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the break line is not centered across the planar bottom surface.

[0356] Embodiment 4: The baking container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the break line is centered across the planar bottom surface.

[0357] Embodiment 5: The baking container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the break line further extends from the third point to a fourth point on a side of the sidewall opposite the first point.

[0358] Embodiment 6: The baking container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the break line further extends from the third point to a fifth point on the edge.

[0359] Embodiment 7: The baking container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the baking container is configured to be completely separated into two parts.

[0360] Embodiment 8: The baking container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 7, wherein one part of the baking container is configured to remain in contact with the food when the baking container is completely separated into two parts.

[0361] Embodiment 9: The baking container of any one of Embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the break line follows the shortest path from the edge to the perimeter, thereby forming a generally perpendicular angle with the perimeter.

[0362] Example 10: A baking container according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the fracture line does not follow the shortest path from the edge to the perimeter and does not form a substantially perpendicular angle with the perimeter.

[0363] Example 11: A baking container according to any one of Examples 1 to 8 or 10, wherein the fracture line intersects the perimeter, thereby forming a minimum angle of 20° - 70°.

[0364] Example 12: A baking container according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the maximum force resisted by a part of the side wall or the flat bottom surface that does not form the fracture line is 0.2 - 10 times greater than the maximum force resisted at the fracture line.

[0365] Example 13: A baking container according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the fracture line is formed by weakening the material of the side wall, the flat bottom surface, or both.

[0366] Example 14: A baking container according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the fracture line is formed by a recess or a notch.

[0367] Example 15: A baking container according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the fracture line is formed by perforations.

[0368] Example 16: The baking container of Example 15, wherein the perforations are dots, pinholes, or substantially circular holes.

[0369] Example 17: The baking container of Example 16, wherein the dots, pinholes, or holes have an inner diameter of 0.05 mm - 1.00 mm.

[0370] Example 18: A baking container according to any one of Examples 15 to 17, wherein the perforations on the side wall, the flat bottom surface, or both are spaced 0.5 mm - 1.5 mm apart.

[0371] Example 19: The baking container of Example 15 or 18, wherein the perforations include narrow slits having a width of 0.05 mm - 1.00 mm and an aspect ratio of 1.5:1 - 5:1.

[0372] Example 20: The baking container of Example 19, wherein the narrow slits have a narrow axis along the fracture line.

[0373] Example 21: The baking container of Example 19, wherein the narrow slits have a narrow axis that forms an angle of 20° - 60° with the path of the fracture line.

[0374] Example 22: A baking container according to any one of Examples 1 to 21, wherein the fracture line is formed by strengthening adjacent side walls, adjacent flat bottom surfaces, or both.

[0375] Example 23: The baking container of Example 22, wherein adjacent side walls are strengthened by increasing their thickness.

[0376] Example 24: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the side walls are grooved, folded, ribbed, corrugated or pleated.

[0377] Example 25: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 24, wherein the side walls are smooth.

[0378] Example 26: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 25, which further comprises a string, a folding tab, a sticker or a strip located along the tear line.

[0379] Example 27: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 26, wherein a folding tab is present and the folding tab is configured to be pinched and pulled to break the tear line.

[0380] Example 28: The baking container of Example 26 or 27, wherein the string, the folding tab, the sticker or the strip has a width or diameter of 0.5 mm - 6 mm.

[0381] Example 29: The baking container of any one of Examples 26 to 28, wherein the string, the folding tab, the sticker or the strip has a total length of 2 cm - 40 cm.

[0382] Example 30: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 29, which further comprises a pull tab located at the tear line.

[0383] Example 31: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 30, wherein the tear line is located by different coloring or texturing.

[0384] Example 32: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 31, which further comprises a seam along the tear line.

[0385] Example 33: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 32, which further comprises a lid attached to a part of the rim.

[0386] Example 34: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 33, wherein the side walls comprise two material layers.

[0387] Example 35: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 34, wherein the interior of the side walls contains decorations, advertisements, graphics, pictures, texts or colorings that are not visible from the outside of the side walls.

[0388] Example 36: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 35, further comprising a second score line, wherein the score line and the second score line form a tear strip having a width that is substantially constant along the length of the tear strip.

[0389] Example 37: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 36, wherein the planar bottom surface is substantially circular.

[0390] Example 38: The baking container of Example 37, wherein the ratio of the diameter of the rim to the diameter of the perimeter is 1:1 - 2:1.

[0391] Example 39: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 36, wherein the planar bottom surface is substantially rectangular with an aspect ratio of 1:1 - 10:1.

[0392] Example 40: A baking container comprising:

[0393] A planar bottom surface having a perimeter;

[0394] A sidewall extending from the perimeter to a rim; and

[0395] Two score lines extending from the rim to a first pair of points on the perimeter,

[0396] wherein the two score lines form a strip configured to be torn along the two score lines, and

[0397] wherein the strip is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal and / or consumption of food contained therein.

[0398] Example 41: The baking container of Example 40, wherein the two score lines extend from the first pair of points to a second pair of points on the planar bottom surface, the second pair of points being within the perimeter.

[0399] Example 42: The baking container of Example 40 or 41, wherein the two score lines further extend to a third pair of points on the side of the perimeter opposite the first pair of points.

[0400] Example 43: The baking container of any one of Examples 40 to 42, wherein the two score lines further extend from the third pair of points to a fourth pair of points on the side of the sidewall opposite the first pair of points.

[0401] Example 44: The baking container of any one of Examples 40 to 43, wherein the two score lines further extend from the third pair of points to a fifth pair of points on the rim.

[0402] Example 45: The baking container according to any one of Examples 40 to 44, wherein the strip is formed of a material having an average thickness 1.05 to 10.00 times greater than the material forming the sidewall and / or the flat bottom surface elsewhere.

[0403] Example 46: The baking container according to any one of Examples 40 to 45, wherein the strip further comprises a pull tab or a folding tab configured to be pinched and pulled to tear the strip.

[0404] Example 47: The baking container according to any one of Examples 40 to 46, wherein the pull tab or the folding tab is located on the bottom side of the flat bottom surface.

[0405] Example 48: The baking container according to Example 46 or 47, wherein the pull tab is present and has a width greater than the width of the strip.

[0406] Example 49: The baking container according to any one of Examples 46 to 48, wherein the pull tab is present and the pull tab is formed of a strip extending beyond the edge and / or beyond the flat bottom surface.

[0407] Example 50: The baking container according to any one of Examples 40 to 49, wherein the strip has a substantially constant width.

[0408] Example 51: The baking container according to any one of Examples 40 to 50, wherein the breaking line follows the shortest path from the edge to the perimeter, thereby forming a substantially perpendicular angle with the perimeter.

[0409] Example 52: The baking container according to any one of Examples 40 to 51, wherein the breaking line does not follow the shortest path from the edge to the perimeter and does not form a substantially perpendicular angle with the perimeter.

[0410] Example 53: The baking container according to any one of Examples 40 to 52, wherein the strip is formed of a thicker material compared to the material forming the sidewall and / or the flat bottom surface elsewhere.

[0411] Example 54: The baking container according to any one of Examples 40 to 53, further comprising a pull tab, a string, a folding tab, a sticker, or a tape attached along a part of the strip.

[0412] Example 55: The baking container according to any one of Examples 40 to 54, wherein the breaking line is formed by perforations.

[0413] Example 56: The baking container according to any one of Examples 40 to 55, further comprising an outer sidewall layer.

[0414] Example 57: The baking container of any one of Examples 40 to 56, wherein the strip further comprises one or more folding tabs configured to be pinched and pulled to tear the strip.

[0415] Example 58: The baking container of any one of Examples 40 to 57, wherein the sidewall is smooth, die-cut, grooved, folded, ribbed, corrugated, or pleated.

[0416] Example 59: The baking container of any one of Examples 40 to 58, further comprising a lid attached to a portion of the rim.

[0417] Example 60: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 59, wherein the break line is connected to the rim at the notch.

[0418] Example 61: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 36, wherein the break line on the flat bottom surface is curved.

[0419] Example 62: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 36 or 61, wherein the baking container is configured to be completely separated into two parts,

[0420] wherein one part of the baking container is configured to remain in contact with the food when the baking container is completely separated into two parts, and

[0421] wherein the part of the baking container configured to remain in contact with the food has a remaining sidewall area that is 55% - 80% of the total sidewall area of the baking container.

[0422] Example 63: The baking container of any one of Examples 1 to 36, 61 or 62, wherein the baking container is configured to be completely separated into two parts,

[0423] wherein one part of the baking container is configured to remain in contact with the food when the baking container is completely separated into two parts, and

[0424] wherein the part of the baking container configured to remain in contact with the food has a remaining flat bottom surface area that is 10% - 40% of the total flat bottom surface area of the baking container.

[0425] Example 64: A baking container comprising:

[0426] A flat bottom surface having a perimeter;

[0427] A sidewall extending from the perimeter to a rim; and

[0428] Two break lines extending from the rim to a first pair of points on the sidewall and extending along the circumference of the sidewall from the first pair of points

[0429] Two of the break lines form a strip, the strip being configured to be torn along the two break lines, and

[0430] wherein the strip is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal and / or consumption of the food contained therein, leaving the bottom portion of the baking container in contact with the food.

[0431] Example 65: The baking container of Example 64, wherein the bottom portion has a height that is 5%-50% of the total height of the sidewall.

[0432] Example 66: A baking container comprising:

[0433] A planar bottom surface having a perimeter;

[0434] A sidewall extending from the perimeter to an edge;

[0435] A first break line extending from the edge to a first pair of points on the sidewall; and

[0436] A second break line and a third break line, both extending circumferentially along the sidewall from the first pair of points,

[0437] wherein the second break line and the third break line form a strip, the strip being configured to be torn along the second break line and the third break line, and

[0438] wherein the strip is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal and / or consumption of the food contained therein, leaving the bottom portion of the baking container in contact with the food.

[0439] Example 67: The baking container of Example 66, wherein the bottom portion has a height that is 5%-50% of the total height of the sidewall.

[0440] The headings (such as "Background" and "Summary of the Invention") and subheadings used herein are intended only for general organization of the subject matter within the present invention and are not intended to limit the disclosure of the present invention or any of its aspects. Specifically, the subject matter disclosed in the "Background" may include novel technologies and may not constitute a detailed description of the prior art. The subject matter disclosed in the "Summary of the Invention" is not an exhaustive or complete disclosure of the full scope of the present technology or any of its embodiments. For convenience, materials within a portion of this specification are classified or discussed as having a particular use, and it should not be inferred that when the materials are used in any given composition, the materials must or function only in accordance with their classification herein.

[0441] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items and may be abbreviated as " / ".

[0442] As used herein, the terms "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the present technology that provide certain benefits in certain circumstances. However, in the same or other circumstances, other embodiments may also be preferred. Additionally, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are inapplicable, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present technology.

[0443] As used herein, the term "comprising" and variations thereof are intended to be non-limiting, such that the recitation of items in a list does not exclude other similar items that may be applicable to the materials, compositions, devices, and methods of the present technology. Similarly, the terms "can" and "may" and variations thereof are intended to be non-limiting, such that the recitation that an embodiment can or may include certain elements or features does not exclude other embodiments of the invention that do not include those elements or features.

[0444] Although terms such as "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various features / elements (including steps), these features / elements should not be limited by these terms unless the context otherwise indicates. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature / element from another. Thus, without departing from the teachings of the present invention, a first feature / element discussed below may be termed a second feature / element, and similarly, a second feature / element discussed below may be termed a first feature / element.

[0445] Spatial relative terms, such as "below", "beneath", "under", "above", "on", "in front of", "behind", etc., may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another (other) element or feature, as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are also intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is inverted, an element described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features will be oriented "above" those other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both an orientation above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein may be interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms "upward", "downward", "vertical", "horizontal", etc. are used herein for purposes of explanation only, unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[0446] When a feature or element is referred to herein as being "on" another feature or element, it can be directly on the other feature or element or intervening features and / or elements may also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being "directly on" another feature or element, no intervening features or elements are present. It should also be understood that when a feature or element is referred to as being "connected", "attached" or "coupled" to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element, or intervening features or elements may be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being "directly connected", "directly attached" or "directly coupled" to another feature or element, no intervening features or elements are present. Although described or shown with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or shown can be applied to other embodiments. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that a reference to a structure or feature that is "adjacent" to another feature can have portions that overlap or lie beneath the adjacent feature.

[0447] The descriptions, drawings, and specific examples, while indicating embodiments of the technology, are intended only for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the technology. Moreover, the detailed description of multiple embodiments with the stated features is not intended to exclude other embodiments with additional features or other embodiments incorporating different combinations of the stated features. Specific examples are provided for the purpose of illustrating how to make and use the compositions and methods of the technology and are not intended to represent, unless otherwise expressly stated, that a given embodiment of the technology has been or has not been made or tested.

Claims

1. A baking container, comprising: A flat bottom surface having a perimeter; A side wall extending from the perimeter to an edge; and A fracture line extending from the edge to a first point on the perimeter and from the first point on the perimeter to a second point within the perimeter on the flat bottom surface, Wherein the fracture line is configured to be torn to open the side wall to facilitate removal and / or consumption of the baked food contained therein, Wherein the fracture line is formed by perforations, Wherein the baking container is made of paper, Wherein the fracture line extends to a third point on a side of the perimeter opposite the first point, and Wherein the baking container is configured to completely separate along the fracture line into two parts of different sizes, wherein one part remains in contact with the baked food and has a larger side wall area and a smaller flat bottom surface area compared to the other part.

2. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the fracture line is curved on the flat bottom surface.

3. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the fracture line further extends from the third point to a fourth point on a side of the side wall opposite the first point.

4. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the fracture line further extends from the third point to a fifth point on the edge.

5. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the part of the baking container configured to remain in contact with the food has a remaining side wall area that is 55%-80% of the total side wall area of the baking container.

6. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the part of the baking container configured to remain in contact with the food has a remaining flat bottom surface area that is 10%-40% of the total flat bottom surface area of the baking container.

7. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the fracture line follows the shortest path from the edge to the perimeter, thereby forming a perpendicular angle with the perimeter.

8. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the fracture line does not follow the shortest path from the edge to the perimeter and does not form a substantially perpendicular angle with the perimeter.

9. The baking container according to claim 8, wherein the fracture line intersects the perimeter, thereby forming a minimum angle of 20°-70°.

10. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the maximum force resisted by the part of the side wall or flat bottom surface that does not form part of the fracture line is 1.2-11 times the maximum force resisted at the fracture line.

11. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the perforations are dots, pinholes or substantially circular holes.

12. The baking container according to claim 11, wherein the dots, pinholes or holes have an inner diameter of 0.05 mm-1.00 mm.

13. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the perforations on the side wall, the flat bottom surface or both are spaced 0.5 mm-1.5 mm apart.

14. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the perforations comprise elongated slits having a width of 0.05 mm - 1.00 mm and an aspect ratio of 1.5:1 - 5:

1.

15. The baking container according to claim 14, wherein the elongated slits have an elongated axis along the fracture line.

16. The baking container according to claim 14, wherein the elongated slits have an elongated axis forming an angle of 20° - 60° with the path of the fracture line.

17. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the sidewall is grooved, folded, ribbed, corrugated or pleated.

18. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the sidewall is smooth.

19. The baking container according to claim 1, further comprising a string, a folding tab, a sticker or a band located along the fracture line.

20. The baking container according to claim 19, wherein a folding tab is present and the folding tab is configured to be pinched and pulled to break the fracture line.

21. The baking container according to claim 19, wherein the string, the folding tab, the sticker or the band has a width or diameter of 0.5 mm - 6 mm.

22. The baking container according to claim 19, wherein the string, the folding tab, the sticker or the band has a total length of 2 cm - 40 cm.

23. The baking container according to claim 1, further comprising a pull tab located at the fracture line.

24. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the fracture line is located by different coloring or texturing.

25. The baking container according to claim 1, further comprising a seam along the fracture line.

26. The baking container according to claim 1, further comprising a lid attached to a portion of the rim.

27. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the sidewall comprises two material layers.

28. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the interior of the sidewall contains decorations, advertisements, graphics, pictures, text or coloring that are not visible from the exterior of the sidewall.

29. The baking container according to claim 1, further comprising a second fracture line, wherein the fracture line and the second fracture line form a tear strip having a width that is substantially constant along the length of the tear strip.

30. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the flat bottom surface is substantially circular.

31. The baking container according to claim 30, wherein the ratio of the diameter of the rim to the diameter of the perimeter is 1:1 - 2:

1.

32. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the flat bottom surface is substantially rectangular, having an aspect ratio of 1:1 - 10:

1.

33. The baking container according to claim 1, wherein the fracture line is connected to the rim at a notch.

34. A baking container comprising: a flat bottom surface having a perimeter; a sidewall extending from the perimeter to a rim; and Two break lines that extend from the edge to a first pair of points on the perimeter, wherein the two break lines form a strip configured to be torn along the two break lines, wherein the strip is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal and / or consumption of food contained therein, wherein the break lines are formed by perforations, wherein the baking container is made of paper, wherein the break lines extend from the first pair of points to a second pair of points on the flat bottom surface, the second pair of points being within the perimeter, wherein the break lines further extend from the second pair of points to a third pair of points located on the side of the perimeter opposite the first pair of points, and wherein the baking container is configured to completely separate along the break lines into two parts of different sizes, with one part remaining in contact with the baked food and having a larger sidewall area and a smaller flat bottom surface area compared to the other part.

35. The baking container according to claim 34, wherein the two break lines further extend from the third pair of points to a fourth pair of points located on the side of the sidewall opposite the first pair of points.

36. The baking container according to claim 34, wherein the two break lines further extend from the third pair of points to a fifth pair of points located on the edge.

37. The baking container according to claim 34, wherein the strip is formed of a material having an average thickness 1.05 - 10.00 times greater than the material forming the sidewall and / or the flat bottom surface elsewhere.

38. The baking container according to claim 34, wherein the strip further comprises a pull tab or a folding tab configured to be pinched and pulled to tear the strip.

39. The baking container according to claim 34, wherein the pull tab or the folding tab is located on the bottom side of the flat bottom surface.

40. The baking container according to claim 39, wherein a pull tab is present and the pull tab has a width greater than the width of the strip.

41. A baking container comprising: A flat bottom surface having a perimeter; A sidewall extending from the perimeter to an edge; and Two break lines that extend from the edge to a first pair of points within the sidewall and extend along the circumference of the sidewall from the first pair of points, wherein the two break lines form a strip entirely within the sidewall, the strip being configured to be torn along the two break lines, and wherein the baking container is configured to completely separate along the break lines into two parts of different sizes, with one part having a larger sidewall area and the other part being a bottom part that includes the entire flat bottom surface, wherein the strip is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal of food contained therein, leaving the bottom part of the baking container in contact with the food.

42. The baking container according to claim 41, wherein the bottom part has a height that is 10% - 45% of the total height of the sidewall.

43. A baking container comprising: A flat bottom surface having a perimeter; A sidewall extending from the perimeter to an edge; A first fracture line extending from the edge to a first pair of points within the sidewall, and a second fracture line and a third fracture line, both extending along the circumference of the sidewall from the first pair of points, wherein the second fracture line and the third fracture line form a strip that is entirely within the sidewall and is configured to be torn along the second fracture line and the third fracture line, and wherein the baking container is configured to be completely separated along the fracture lines into two parts of different sizes, one part having a larger sidewall area and the other part being a bottom part that includes the entire planar bottom surface, wherein the strip is configured to be torn to open the sidewall to facilitate removal of the food contained therein, leaving the bottom part of the baking container in contact with the food.

44. The baking container according to claim 34, wherein the part of the baking container configured to remain in contact with the food has a remaining sidewall area that is 55%-80% of the total sidewall area of the baking container.

45. The baking container according to claim 34, wherein the part of the baking container configured to remain in contact with the food has a remaining planar bottom surface area that is 10%-40% of the total planar bottom surface area of the baking container.

Images