Telescoping twist lock package with enhanced user-friendliness and trustworthiness

Abstract

A user-friendly twist-to-lock telescoping tubular package includes a tubular package having secure visual cues to help the user properly assemble and operate the package, as well as improved engagement features that facilitate proper use of the package while preventing improper operation of the package. The improved locking features are more resistant to accidental unlocking or repositioning of the package. Support and stabilization features enhance the locking connection of the locking connectors and improve their reliability.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 168,841, filed March 31, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The field of the invention relates generally to adjustable packaging that is universal with objects of different sizes, and more particularly to a telescoping twist-lock packaging that is adjustably elongated or shortened to universally accommodate elongated objects of different lengths. BACKGROUND

[0004] Packaging technology is known that is adjustable in size to accommodate a variety of different elongated objects having different lengths. Such packaging technology generally includes a base member and a cover. The base member and cover include mating interlocking features that allow the cover to be locked in place in selected positions relative to the base member. Thus, the lockable cover can be selectively adjusted into position relative to the base to desirably accommodate different elongated objects having respective different axial lengths on the inside. The adjustable nature of the lockable cover relative to the base member is sometimes referred to as a telescoping arrangement, where a fine gradient of lockable positions for the cover can be optimally used for packaging different elongated objects having a range of varying axial lengths. Such lockable telescoping packaging can be universal with different objects having different lengths, and advantageously avoids the need to provide separate, specialized or custom packaging for objects of different lengths. Such telescoping packaging can also provide a variety of different width and depth sizes to accommodate a variety of different sized objects being packaged in addition to length.

[0005] While existing lockable telescoping packaging of the type described above has been desirably employed in the marketplace to reduce packaging technology costs and streamline packaging processes for groups of elongated objects having a range of axial lengths that are compatible with the telescoping packaging, there are certain problems and shortcomings. Improvements are therefore needed. SUMMARY

[0006] The benefits and advantages of the inventive concepts herein, in view of the disclosed exemplary embodiments, will become apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0007] An embodiment of a telescoping twist-lock package has been disclosed comprising a base member and a cover. The base member includes an elongated smaller diameter tubular portion having a circular cross-section and a first outer surface, a first set of aligned spaced-apart locking protrusions arranged in a first axial column on the first outer surface, and a second set of aligned spaced-apart locking protrusions arranged in a second axial column on the first outer surface, wherein the first and second axial columns are centered at 180° locations of the outer circumference, respectively. The cover includes an elongated larger diameter tubular portion having a circular cross-section and a second outer surface, and a first and a second contoured recessed interlocking portion extending on the second outer surface, wherein the first and second contoured recessed interlocking portions are clearly visible from a vantage point outside the cover. By means of the first and second sets of aligned spaced-apart locking protrusions and the first and second contoured recessed interlocking portions, the base member and the cover are configured to be selectively assembled to each other in a telescoping relationship adjustable with respect to each other in a plurality of staged positions, thereby forming an assembled package of a corresponding different axial length.

[0008] Optionally, the first and second contoured recessed interlocking portions can each include a series of externally facing columnar protrusions extending flush with the second outer surface, each of the externally facing columnar protrusions defining an internal locking groove to lockingly receive a selected one of the first or second sets of locking protrusions of the base member. The shape of each internal locking groove can be designed to approximate but be slightly larger than one of the locking protrusions. The first and second sets of aligned spaced-apart locking protrusions can each further include a first number of locking protrusions, and wherein the set of externally facing columnar protrusions includes a second number of externally facing columnar protrusions, wherein the second number is substantially less than the first number. The first and second contoured recessed interlocking portions can each further define an axial channel adjacent the set of externally facing columnar protrusions, the axial channel receiving a corresponding one of the first and second sets of aligned spaced-apart locking protrusions, wherein the first and second sets of aligned spaced-apart corresponding locking protrusions are slidable along the axial channel to selectively engage the base member and the cover in one of the plurality of staged positions.

[0009] As a further option, the first and second recessed interlocking portions may be defined as guide wall portions extending between a group of outwardly facing rows of protrusions and an axial channel, wherein the guide walls define a small-angle side of the axial channel. When the base member and the cover member rotate relative to each other, each guide wall may resiliently deflect along the small-angle side of the axial channel, causing the first set of aligned, spaced-apart locking protrusions and the second set of aligned, spaced-apart locking protrusions to move in the rotatable direction toward the outwardly facing series of protrusions and the internal locking groove. The first and second recessed interlocking portions may further define a large-angle side of the axial guide channel opposite the small-angle side.

[0010] Each internal locking recess may include a large-angle side to prevent accidental unlocking of the packaging. The cover may also include a pair of anti-sway protrusions extending radially inward from the second outer surface, and the pair of anti-sway protrusions may be centered at 180° positions on the second outer surface, and also located between a pair of recessed interlocking portions. The cover may also include hook portions.

[0011] The base component may optionally include at least one guide line extending on the first outer surface as a visual reference for the most credible upper limit of the axial position of the cover relative to the base component. The base component may also include a pair of anti-sway protrusions extending outward from the first outer surface, and the pair of anti-sway protrusions may be centered at 180° positions on the first outer surface, and also located between a first set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions and a second set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions.

[0012] The base component may optionally include a third set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions arranged in a third axial column on a first outer surface and a fourth set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions arranged in a third axial column on the first outer surface, wherein the third and fourth sets of aligned and spaced locking protrusions are respectively located between the first and second sets of aligned and spaced locking protrusions. The cover may also define a third and fourth recessed interlocking portion extending on the second outer surface, which receive the third and fourth sets of aligned and spaced locking protrusions. Selected locking protrusions among the third and fourth aligned and spaced locking protrusions are freely movable within the third and fourth recessed interlocking portions between a locked and unlocked position of the package without deflecting any part of the cover. The third and fourth sets of locking protrusions may also define at least one locking groove to lockably receive at least one of the locking protrusions.

[0013] The base component and cover may optionally be provided with at least one visual indicator for reference by personnel to align the base component and cover, lock the base component and cover in a desired position, or unlock the base component and cover. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments are described with reference to the following figures, wherein, unless otherwise specified, the same reference numerals in the figures denote the same parts.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a side view of an exemplary telescopic twist-lock packaging assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the assembly of the telescopic torsion lock package in its first telescopic position.

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The cross-sectional view shown is of a telescopic twist-lock package.

[0018] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram shows a three-dimensional assembly of the telescopic torsion lock package in its second telescopic position.

[0019] Figure 5 yes Figures 1 to 4 A perspective view of an exemplary base component of a telescopic twist-lock packaging.

[0020] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The side view of the base component shown.

[0021] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The cross-sectional view of the base component shown.

[0022] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A detailed image of a portion of the image.

[0023] Figure 9 yes Figures 1 to 4 A perspective view of an exemplary cover of a telescopic twist-lock packaging shown.

[0024] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The side view of the cover shown.

[0025] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The sectional view of the cover shown.

[0026] Figure 12 yes Figure 9A detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the cover shown.

[0027] Figure 13 yes Figure 4 The side view shown is of the assembled telescopic torsion lock package in a freely adjustable state, allowing selection of the desired axial length of the telescopic torsion lock package.

[0028] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 The cross-sectional view shown is of the telescopic twist-lock package in a freely adjustable state.

[0029] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A detailed image of a portion of the image.

[0030] Figure 16 yes Figure 4 The side view shown is of the assembled telescopic torsion lock package in the locked state, maintaining the selected axial length of the telescopic package.

[0031] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 The first cross-sectional view shown is of the assembled telescopic twist-lock package in the locked state.

[0032] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 The second cross-sectional view shown is of the assembled telescopic twist-lock package in the locked state.

[0033] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A detailed view of a part of the image.

[0034] Figure 20 This is a first side view of an exemplary telescopic twist-lock package in the unlocked state according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 The diagram shows an assembly of the telescopic twist-lock packaging assembly.

[0036] Figure 22 It is used for Figure 20 and Figure 21 The side view of the base component of the package shown.

[0037] Figure 23 It is used for Figure 20 and 21 The side view of the lid of the package shown.

[0038] Figure 24 yes Figure 21 The package shown is in an unlocked cross-sectional view.

[0039] Figure 25yes Figure 20 and Figure 21 The exemplary telescopic twist-lock package shown is in a second side view in the locked state.

[0040] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 The cross-sectional view shown is of the package in a locked state.

[0041] Figure 27 yes Figure 26 The first detailed image of a part of it.

[0042] Figure 28 yes Figure 26 A second detail image of a portion of the image.

[0043] Figure 29 This is a partial view of an exemplary telescopic twist-lock packaging according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0044] In order to fully understand the present invention, it is necessary to discuss some of the prior art regarding retractable packaging and certain problems in the prior art, which are therefore discussed below, followed by an exemplary embodiment of product packaging that is beneficial to overcoming the problems in the prior art.

[0045] Various types of adjustable-length product packaging are known and used as part of the solution to the unique product packaging needs of specific types of items sold at retail points. Generally, existing adjustable-length product packaging for multiple sets of elongated objects with different axial lengths faces one or more problems that make them unsatisfactory and disadvantageous in certain respects.

[0046] First, from a manufacturing perspective, some existing adjustable-length product packaging can be quite complex, resulting in undesirably high manufacturing costs. For example, such complexity might stem from the overly intricate shapes of the base component and / or lid to achieve the desired adjustability and / or locking. The complex shapes of the base and lid can also complicate assembly, especially when assembly requires complex steps and a certain level of skill, which not all end-users possess. Therefore, there is a need for low-cost packaging that simplifies assembly.

[0047] Second, some existing adjustable-length product packaging may be unnecessarily complex when used correctly. That is, the correct sequence of steps or actions required for the end user to adjust the packaging length to the desired position and securely lock the lid in place may not be intuitive for the end user. Specifically, how to assemble the components and / or how to align the mating features of the base component and the lid to position and lock the lid in place may not be obvious to the end user, especially when the mating features are inside the lid and when the mating features on the base component are partially or completely obscure to the end user.

[0048] For example, in some existing adjustable-length packages, as a general recommendation, users may not immediately understand how to correctly assemble the lid onto the base component. Consequently, users may attempt to assemble the lid into the base component at an incorrect rotational position relative to the base component. This results in interference between the internal mating features of the lid and the mating features of the base component, preventing the formation of a stretching relationship. Trial-and-error assembly steps negatively impact the efficiency of the packaging process. If a frustrated user attempts to press-fit the lid onto the base component, damage to the mating features of both the lid and base component may occur unnoticed by the end user, potentially leading to undesirable package failure or packaging reliability issues.

[0049] Furthermore, even after the telescoping relationship between the lid and the base component is established, the ambiguity of the lid's mating characteristics can still leave users unclear about how to accurately adjust the packaging to achieve the desired axial positioning and locking of the lid for a given object to be packaged. This is especially true when the packaging is provided to the user with the lid pre-assembled to the base component; users may experience initial confusion about what actions are required to achieve the desired positioning. For example, users may not understand whether it is necessary to push, pull, twist, or rotate the base component and / or lid in different directions to lock the lid in place or to unlock it to select another position. Consequently, end users may need to engage in frustrating trial and error to understand specifically how to adjust the packaging size to the most desired size and / or most effectively lock the packaging in the desired size, further reducing the efficiency of packaging products at the optimal size and potentially damaging the packaging by attempting to force the lid into the desired position. Inefficient assembly and use of packaging leads to an undesirable increase in the labor costs of completing the packaging process, and unintentional damage to the packaging results in increased waste and reliability issues. Therefore, more user-friendly packaging that can be used with improved efficiency and reliability is desired.

[0050] Third, during actual use and handling, some existing adjustable-length product packaging may experience accidental locking and unlocking, requiring further steps to unlock or relock, thus further reducing packaging efficiency. This is particularly true for the aforementioned types of non-intuitive packaging, where locking and unlocking features may not be obvious or readily understood by the end user. Users may accidentally apply force to change the package's position, whether from one axial position to another or from a locked position to an unlocked position, or vice versa. Such unintentional positional changes, especially unintentional unlocking, can be difficult to correct and detect in some cases. Especially for locking features not specifically designed to resist accidental unlocking or incorrect movement of the package and therefore movable with relatively small forces, the package may undergo unintentional repositioning during handling and use without being noticed, potentially leading to suboptimal use. Therefore, improved locking features that are less prone to accidental repositioning and unlocking are desirable.

[0051] Fourth, in addition to the issues mentioned above, some existing adjustable-length product packaging exhibits mechanical instability in multiple locking positions, which may further affect the proper use and reliability of the packaging. Specifically, certain types of adjustable-length product packaging may have mechanical gaps or looseness in the connection between the lid and the base component. These mechanical gaps can make the packaging susceptible to wobbling or tilting movements of the lid relative to the base component, and vice versa. Such wobbling or tilting may unintentionally lead end-users to question whether the packaging has been properly locked, thus creating noticeable quality problems in the packaging design, not to mention attempts to correct the mechanical gaps in ineffective but further inefficient ways in the packaging process. Such mechanical gaps in the locking connection can also lead to accidental or unintentional unlocking of the packaging.

[0052] Of course, the aforementioned problems may occur in combination in certain types of existing adjustable-length product packaging, creating cascading issues from both the manufacturer's and end-user's perspectives. This combination of problems may cumulatively hinder the achievement of meeting the long-standing demand for economical and low-cost packaging from the manufacturer's side, while simultaneously realizing user-friendly, safer, and more stable packaging, thereby achieving improved efficiency in packaging processes to overcome these issues.

[0053] The following describes exemplary embodiments of an improved telescopic twist-lock packaging that overcomes these and other problems in the prior art. The improved telescopic tubular twist-lock packaging of the present invention advantageously overcomes these and other problems in the prior art by offering the following advantages: (1) a relatively simple and low-cost tubular package with improved locking features; (2) fixed visual cues to guide users in assembling and operating the package, thereby improving packaging efficiency; (3) fixed visual markers for proper assembly and locking engagement of the package to ensure full locking engagement and improved locking reliability; (4) fixed visual cues that display the interlocking features of the cover relative to the base component in a user-friendly manner; (5) fixed stops and ramps that prevent incorrect operation of the package or relatively easily facilitate operation of the package to allow users to more intuitively understand how to rotate the locking features to a secure engagement; and (6) anti-sway support features built into each base component and cover component to enhance the mechanical support and stability of the interlocking package at multiple locations in the mating cover and base component. The various aspects of the methodology will be discussed explicitly in part and will be obvious in part in the description below.

[0054] Figure 1 This is a side view of an exemplary improved telescopic torsion-lock package 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Package 100 includes a generally hollow base member 102 (sometimes referred to as the inner part) and a generally hollow cover member 104 (sometimes referred to as the outer part). The base member 102 and the cover member 104 are each configured to assemble with each other in a telescopic relationship adjustable relative to each other at multiple graded locations, thereby forming different axial lengths of package 100 optimally suited for accommodating objects or articles (not shown) having a range of axial lengths that can be fitted inside package 100 at each respective graded location. For purposes herein, elongated articles are considered optimally fitted inside package when the internal space of the package at selected locations in the multiple graded locations is closest to, but still slightly larger than, the actual length of the object accommodated when the object is inside package 100.

[0055] In a contemplated embodiment, the objects contained in the packaging 100 can be placed substantially vertically, thus allowing for [interaction / cooperation]. Figure 1 The longitudinal axis 106 of the intermediate packaging components 102 and 104 (i.e., along) Figure 1The longitudinal axis 106 is aligned with the axial centerline of the base component 102 and the cover 104 when the package 100 is assembled. The axial length of the object contained in the package can be aligned with the longitudinal axis 106 (i.e., extending parallel to the longitudinal axis) or not aligned (i.e., extending at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis). In either case, the package 100 can be finely adjusted along the longitudinal axis 106 for use with longer or shorter objects contained inside, and this avoids the need for additional custom-made packaging with a specific length corresponding one-to-one with the different lengths of objects to be packaged.

[0056] The adjustability of the axial length of the telescopic package 100 along the longitudinal axis 106 advantageously accommodates a corresponding range of axial lengths of objects to be accommodated in a universal manner within the package 100. The range of axial lengths of the objects to be accommodated corresponds to the difference between an upper limit defined by the maximum axial length position of the cover 104 on the base member 102 and a lower limit by the minimum axial length of the cover 104 on the base member 102. Within this range, the cover 104 can be selectively positioned on the base member 102 at any of a number of intermediate steps or stages, as further described below.

[0057] Figure 2 This is an assembly diagram of the tubular twist-lock package 100, showing the end of the cover 104 simply sliding over the end of the base member 102 during initial assembly of the package 100. The corresponding directional alignment arrow 108 ( Figure 1 A directional alignment arrow 108 is provided at the distal end of each of the base component 102 and the cover component 104 as a visual cue for the user to intuitively align the cover component 104 to the base component 102 for initial assembly. When aligned, the directional alignment arrow 108 indicates the rotational position of the cover component 104 relative to the base component 102 (and vice versa), where the mating locking features of the base component 104 and the cover component 102 will not interfere with each other, and thus a simple and smooth sliding engagement of the components 104 and 102 can be easily established. Therefore, trial-and-error assembly of the package 100 is avoided, and any tendency for the user to force the assembly of the packages 102 and 104 is avoided if the mating features of the packages 102 and 104 otherwise interfere with each other during initial assembly if the packages 102 and 104 are not properly aligned.

[0058] In the intended embodiment, the directional alignment arrow 108 may be a raised molded feature fixed to the plastic base component 102 and the cover 104 of the packaging design. This fixed design ensures that the alignment arrow 108 reliably stands visually on each component 102 and 104, serving as a visual cue to guide the user to correctly assemble the packaging 100. The directional alignment arrow 108 may also be provided via applied paint or color enhancement, stickers or labels, or graphic markings in other ways known in the art, although such graphic markings not integrated or fixed to the molded packaging design may wear down over time, reducing their visual prominence and cues for intuitive assembly of the packaging 100.

[0059] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 As indicated by the directional arrow 108, the cover 104 can freely extend and retract along the outer surface of the base component 102 along the axis 106 of the packaging 100 to adjust the relative axial distance between the cover 104 and the base component 102 along the axis 106. When aligned in this way, the inner surface of the cover 104 smoothly fits onto the outer surface of the base component 102, without being affected by... Figure 2 The position shown is limited. When the desired axial position of the cover 104 is obtained relative to the base member 102, the cover 104 can be simply rotated or twisted relative to the base member 102 about the axis 106 in a first direction (and vice versa) to lock the cover 104 in place, such as... Figure 3 One of the multiple hierarchical locations is shown in the sectional view and is described in further detail below.

[0060] By rotating or twisting the cover 104 relative to the base component 102 along the axis 106 in a second direction (opposite to the first direction), the cover 104 can be unlocked from one graded position and can again freely extend and retract along the axis 106 to select another graded position. Figure 2 As shown, the cover 104 is positioned close to its maximum axial length by extending its distal end 144 as close as possible to the distal end 128 of the base member 102, where locking of the cover 104 is still possible. This maximum axial length position is sometimes referred to as the fully extended position of the telescopic packages 104, 102, and is used for the longest object to be packaged within the axial length range adapted by the package 100.

[0061] Figure 4This is a three-dimensional assembly diagram of the package 100 in its second telescopic position, which is the minimum axial length position where the distal end 144 of the cover 104 is as far as possible from the distal end 128 of the base member 102. This minimum axial length position is sometimes referred to as the fully closed or fully retracted position of the telescopic packages 104, 102, and will be used for the shortest item to be packaged within the axial length range adapted by the package 100. The cover 104 can be positioned in minute increments between the fully extended and fully closed positions for intermediate lengths of the item to be packaged between the longest and shortest lengths.

[0062] Figures 5 to 8 Various views of the base component 102 are shown, including an elongated, small-diameter tubular portion 110 having a generally circular or circular cross-section and a truncated, large-diameter polygonal or non-circular portion 112 located at one end of the tubular portion 110. The polygonal portion 112 includes multiple non-circular, straight, flat sides and advantageously provides a robust finger grip surface via flat sides that are easier for the user to grasp and rotate than a circular outer surface, while the circular outer surface of the tubular portion 110 is not polygonal, thus providing a smooth and efficient engagement surface for telescopic and locking engagement with the cover 104, as further described below. A transition segment 114 extends between the tubular portion 110 and the polygonal segment 112. The transition segment 114 is tapered to gradually increase the circular outer diameter of the tubular portion 110 to the larger diameter of the polygonal segment 112 along a short axial length along axis 106.

[0063] In a proposed embodiment, the directional arrow and lock / unlock indicator 116 are provided on the outer surface of the polygonal portion 112, and in a proposed embodiment, the arrow and lock / unlock indicator 116 may be a fixed feature of the molded protrusion of the plastic base component 102 to ensure reliable visual prominence on the base component 102 for end-user reference. The directional arrow and lock / unlock indicator 116 may also be provided via paint or color enhancement, stickers or labels, or graphic markings in other ways known in the art, although such graphic markings are more susceptible to wear over time, thus reducing visual prominence and visual cues for end-user reference.

[0064] In the example shown, the lock and unlock indicators 116 are symbolic representations of closing and opening the padlock, respectively, and thus provide visual cues that the user will intuitively understand in conjunction with directional arrows, serving as an indication of the directional rotation required to lock or unlock the package 100 when assembling the base component 102 and the cover 104. However, it should be understood that different lock or unlock indicators are possible, which may include different symbolic representations and simple letters (including, but not limited to, single-letter or multi-letter abbreviations of the words "lock and unlock" (or the entire phrase)). Similarly, other symbolic indicators or abbreviations or full use of the words other than "lock" and "unlock" may be employed, such as, for example, simply using the words "open" and "close" or "on" and "off," which will also be intuitively understood by the end user as guidance on the correct use and operation of the package 100.

[0065] In the illustrated example, pairs of aligned locking protrusions 118 are arranged in a vertical column, centered at 180° positions on the outer circular periphery of the tubular portion 110, thus facing each other directly above the directional arrows and locking / unlocking indicators 116 of the tubular portion 110. In the illustrated embodiment, each group of locking protrusions 118 includes n locking protrusions, such as 23 in the illustrated example; however, it should be understood that in additional and / or alternative embodiments, the number n of each group of locking protrusions 118 may be more or less as desired or required. Multiple locking protrusions 118 are arranged along the longitudinal axis 106 (… Figure 1 From directly above the transition section 114 to near the distal end 128 of the tubular portion 110 extending opposite the polygonal section 112, they are arranged at a consistent and uniform spacing in each column. Multiple locking protrusions 118 are spaced relatively close to each other to allow for fine incremental spacing and adjustability of the positions of adjacent protrusions of the cover 104 and the multiple locking protrusions 118. In the example shown, as... Figure 7 As shown in the cross-sectional view, adjacent protrusions of the plurality of locking protrusions 118 in each column are spaced approximately 4 mm apart from each other along the longitudinal direction (i.e., parallel to axis 106 and along axis 108), although larger or smaller spacing of the plurality of locking protrusions 118 is possible in additional and / or alternative embodiments. Similarly, while two sets of aligned locking protrusions 118 are shown and described as arranged in vertical columns, it should be appreciated that in additional and / or alternative embodiments, more than two columns of locking protrusions 118 may be provided on the circular periphery of the tubular portion 110 at various different positions and spacings relative to each other.

[0066] As in Figure 8As best seen in the cross-sectional detail view of the axial portion of the base member 102, each locking protrusion 118 generally includes a flat locking surface 120 extending radially and vertically from the circular outer surface of the tubular portion 110 and an inclined surface 122 relative to the flat locking surface 120, the inclined surface extending at an inclined angle relative to the circular outer surface of the tubular portion 110. Therefore, in Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the view, the locking protrusion 118 is generally triangular in shape. Multiple locking protrusions are also aligned along the vertical axis 106 at each 180° position on the circular outer periphery of the tubular portion 110.

[0067] In the example shown, the flat locking surfaces 120 of each of the plurality of locking protrusions 118 at each incremental step position are coplanar with respect to each other, and the flat locking surfaces 120 of adjacent locking protrusions at each 180° position extend generally in a spaced-apart but parallel manner with respect to each other. In other words, the flat locking surfaces 120 of adjacent locking protrusions at each 180° position extend in spaced-apart but parallel planes that are normal to and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 106, and also normal to and perpendicular to the circular outer surface of the tubular portion 110. Thus, the arrangement of the locking protrusions 118 with such flat and parallel locking surfaces 120 contrasts sharply with threaded locking features with a pitch around axis 106 (which is known in some types of existing adjustable-length packaging). Avoiding threaded locking features is advantageous because, from a manufacturing perspective, it often requires more complex shapes and more precise assembly of the package.

[0068] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, at each 180° position in the circular tubular portion 110, the plurality of locking protrusions 118 also occupy a very small portion of the circumference of the circular tubular portion 110 at each incremental step and elevation of the plurality of locking protrusions 118. Thus, the vast majority of the circumference of the circular tubular portion 110 is not provided with locking protrusions 118. This also allows for simpler manufacturing compared to existing adjustable packaging, which has a wider range of locking features that occupy more space and / or require more complex base component shapes. The circumferential edge of the locking protrusions 118 is also shown in these figures as having a tapered end with an inclined edge surface 124 that facilitates engagement with the cover 104. Figure 6 The shapes and geometries of the locking protrusions described and illustrated are merely exemplary, and alternative shapes and geometries with similar advantages may be used in additional and / or alternative embodiments.

[0069] A pair of anti-sway protrusions 126 extend radially outward from the circular outer surface of the tubular portion 110 near the distal end of the tubular portion 110 relative to the polygonal portion 112. The anti-sway protrusions 126 are respectively centered at 180° positions on the tubular portion 110 and thus opposite each other on the circular outer periphery of the tubular portion 110. The 180° positions of the anti-sway protrusions 126 are also located between the 180° positions of the multiple rows of locking protrusions 118. Figure 3 In optimal visibility, the 180° positions of the two rows of locking protrusions 118 are centered between the 180° positions of the pair of anti-sway protrusions 126. Thus, in Figure 3 In the view, the locking protrusions 118 in the corresponding columns are centered at 0° and 180° positions on the circular outer periphery of the tubular portion 110, while the corresponding anti-sway protrusions 126 are centered at 90° and 270° positions on the circular outer periphery of the tubular portion 110. Advantageously, due to the rotationally offset arrangement of the locking protrusions 118 and the anti-sway protrusions 126, when the locking protrusions 118 and the anti-sway protrusions 126 are engaged as further described below, structural support is provided between the base member 102 and the cover at the 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270° positions, and such relative movement, such as tilting or swaying, is substantially prevented unless the relative movement between the base member 102 and the cover 104 at the distal end 128 of the base member 102 is eliminated.

[0070] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the anti-sway protrusion 126 extends circumferentially over the tubular portion 110 by a greater distance than the locking protrusion 118, and as... Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the anti-sway protrusion 126 is rounded on its outer surface. Specifically, the outer surface of the anti-sway protrusion 126 has a raised shape with a radius of curvature that deviates from the radius of curvature of the circular tubular portion 110. The shape and geometry of the anti-sway protrusion 126 described and illustrated are merely exemplary, and alternative shapes and geometries with similar advantages may be employed in additional and / or alternative embodiments. Furthermore, although only one pair of anti-sway protrusions 126 is provided near the distal end 128 of the base member 102 in the illustrated example, more than one pair of anti-sway protrusions 126 may be provided.

[0071] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, a pair of circumferential guide lines 130 are formed on the tubular portion 110, extending generally parallel to but spaced apart from the anti-sway protrusions 126. In a contemplated embodiment, the guide lines 130 may be an inherent feature of the molded protrusions of the plastic base sheet 102 to ensure that they reliably provide visual cues for end-user reference on the base sheet 102. The guide lines 130 may also be provided via paint or color enhancement, stickers or labels, or graphic markings in other ways known in the art, although such graphic markings are more susceptible to wear over time, thus reducing visual cues and visibility for end-user reference.

[0072] During the use and operation of the packaging 100, the end user can visually reference the guide line 130 to determine the most reliable upper limit of the axial position of the cover 104 relative to the base member 102 within the packaging 100. By aligning the lower distal end of the cover 104 with the guide line 130 and twisting the cover and / or base member 102 in the locking direction, the cover 104 can be fully engaged and locked in the safest manner. A lesser degree of locking of the cover 104 can be obtained above the guide line 130, but this is not preferred because the cover 104 will only be partially engaged to the base member 102 and will therefore be more likely to disengage undesirably. Therefore, the guide line 130 ideally provides the end user with a visual reference point to determine the most reliable upper limit of the packaging extension for its safe use.

[0073] Figures 9 to 12 These are various views of the cover 104, which includes an elongated cylindrical tubular portion 140 having a generally circular or circular cross-section. The diameter of the circular tubular portion 140 is larger than the diameter of the tubular portion 110 of the base member 102 to facilitate sliding and telescopic engagement with it. Figure 9 In the view, the tubular portion 140 includes a closed end 142 located at the top and as shown in the figure. Figure 1 The distal end 144 of the opening is inserted into the distal end 128 of the base component 102. A directional arrow 108 is formed in a segmented manner on the tubular portion 140 near the distal end 144, and in the illustrated embodiment, the segmented arrow includes a pointed or spear-shaped segment, a middle trapezoidal segment directly above the pointed or spear-shaped segment, and an end trapezoidal portion directly above the middle trapezoidal segment, which together represent a large arrow pointing towards the distal end 144. During initial assembly of the package 100, the segmented arrow 108 can be easily and visually aligned with the arrow 108 on the base component 102 as described above.

[0074] The closed end 142 is formed with a hook portion 146 to allow it to be suspended from a hook in a retail product display area for the purchase of packaged items. Therefore, when package 100 is vertically suspended on the hook portion 146, the weight of package 100 and any (or more) objects in package 100 is supported by the hook portion 146. While an exemplary shape and geometry of the hook portion 146 is shown in the illustrated embodiment, other shapes and configurations are possible and may be employed in alternative embodiments. In other embodiments, the hook portion 146 may be considered optional and may be omitted.

[0075] The outer surface of the tubular portion 140 is generally smooth and cylindrical, and therefore circular (i.e., having a circular outer circumference in cross-section), but near the distal end 144 is a pair of contoured, recessed interlocking portions 148, which are clearly visible from an advantageous position on the outside of the cover 104. The interlocking portions 148 are located at 180° to the circumference of the tubular portion 140, and thus face each other on the circular outer surface of the tubular portion 140. Each interlocking portion 148 provides a visual cue to the mating features present in the cover 104 and visually conveys, in a more intuitive, transparent, and easily understood manner, how the cover 104 actually mates and interlocks with the base component 102 during use and operation of the packaging 100.

[0076] Specifically, the recessed interlocking portion 148 includes a set of outwardly facing rows of protrusions 150 that extend flush with the outer surface of the tubular portion 140, but have a strong visual similarity to a set of locking protrusions 118 on the base member 102 (i.e., similar in shape and spaced approximately the same distance from each other). Thus, in... Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the initial assembly shown, the interlocking portion 148 is rotated offset relative to the column of locking protrusions 118, so the user can easily see the relative relationship of the individual parts 102, 104, or two parts 102, 104, which is necessary for aligning and locking the parts 102, 104 together via the provided locking features. The number of protrusions 150 in the interlocking portion 148 of the illustrated example is much smaller than the number of protrusions 118 in the base part 102, and four protrusions 150 are shown in the illustrated example, although more or fewer protrusions 150 may be included in embodiments. The interlocking portion 148 including the protrusions 150 can be a single-step incremental interlock determined by the spacing of the locking protrusions 118 in the base part 102.

[0077] The protrusion 150 on the outside of the circular tubular portion 140 defines an internal groove 152 inside the tubular portion 140 of the cover 104. Figure 11 When the locking protrusion 118 of the base component 102 is received in the recess 152, the base component 102 and the cover 104 become interlocked. Figure 12As shown in the detailed diagram, in the axial direction (i.e. along) Figures 10 to 12 In the vertical direction of the cover 104, each outer protrusion 150 and inner recess 152 in the interlocking portion 148 approximates, but is slightly larger than, the locking protrusion 118 on the base member 102. Thus, each outer protrusion 150 and inner recess 152 generally includes a flat locking surface 154 extending generally radially and vertically inward from the outer periphery of the circular tubular portion 140, and an inclined surface 156 opposite the flat locking surface 154, extending at an angle relative to the outer periphery of the circular tubular portion 140. Thus, approximating the locking protrusion 118, the inner recess 152 also has a generally triangular shape. The flat locking surfaces 154, 120 are adjacent to each other and stably support the weight of the package 100 when suspended on the hook portion 146. The adjacent locking surfaces 154, 120 prevent any tendency for the package to unlock under its own weight, and prevent and thwart any attempt by the user to pull open the cover 104 and the base member 102. Therefore, once the locking protrusion 118 is accommodated in the groove 152, accidental unlocking in the axial direction (i.e., along the axis 106 of the package 100) is impossible.

[0078] like Figure 9 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 and Figure 18 As seen, the recessed interlocking portion 148 in the cover 104 also includes a guide wall 158 that defines an axial channel 160 to accommodate a row of locking protrusions 118 during assembly of the package 100. The locking protrusions 118 in the base member 102 pass through the axial channel 160, allowing the base member 102 to move freely up and down relative to the cover 104 along axis 106. The guide wall 158 has a large-angle side 162 formed on one side of the axial channel 160. Figure 14 and Figure 15 Furthermore, a small-angle side 164 is formed on the other side of the axial channel 160.

[0079] The large-angle side 162 is almost parallel to the inclined end edge 124 of the locking protrusion 118. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The cover 104 or base component extends and provides a hard stop to prevent any attempt by the user to rotate it in the wrong direction (i.e., the direction that causes the locking protrusion 118 to move away from the direction of rotation of the locking groove 152). Figure 15 In the example, by providing high initial resistance to the locking protrusion 118, the large-angle side 162 generally prevents the locking protrusion 118 from releasing clockwise from the guide channel 160. In contrast, the small-angle side 164 provides initial low resistance to the movement of the locking protrusion 118 toward the locking recess 152, thereby allowing the user to more easily lock the cover 104 to the desired position on the base member 102.

[0080] For example, such as Figure 14 As shown at the top, the large-angle side 162 and the small-angle side 164 have unequal slopes, and the opposite sides of the locking protrusion 128 have slopes that are opposite to each other. More specifically, in Figure 9 The large-angle side 162 at the top has a negative slope, while the small-angle side 164 has a positive slope. Relative to each other, the large-angle side 162 has a steep slope, while the small-angle side 164 has a gentle slope. The gentle slope of the small-angle side 162 results in a relatively long length along the slope to the outer periphery of the base member 102, while the steep slope of the large-angle side 162 results in a relatively short length along the slope to the outer periphery of the base member 102. In the illustrated example, the slope of the large-angle side 162 extends almost radially to the outer periphery of the base member 102, while the small-angle side 164 extends almost tangentially.

[0081] like Figure 15 As shown, by rotating the base component 102 counterclockwise and simultaneously rotating the cover component 104 clockwise, the small-angle side 164 can be elastically deflected until the locking protrusion 118 engages with the locking groove 152, as... Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown. In this way, the user will not easily rotate the base component and cover 102, 104 in the wrong direction, but can easily rotate them in the correct direction to visually lock the two components in the desired position. Furthermore, when the locked position is reached and the locking feature is fully engaged, the user can visually know that the packaging 100 is locked through the snap-fit ​​action of the packaging 100.

[0082] like Figure 18 and Figure 19 As seen in the example, in the circumferential direction, the angle of the locking groove 152 matches the angle of the inclined end edge of the locking protrusion 118. Thus, once the protrusion 118 is locked in the groove 152, the matched angles will largely prevent any attempt to unlock them, or at least largely eliminate accidental unlocking in the direction of rotation. In other words, as designed, the matching angles of the locking protrusion 118 and the groove 152 are intended to largely prevent unintentional and accidental forces that would otherwise tend to cause the protrusion 118 to unlock. Therefore, because the interlocking of the protrusion 118 and the groove 152 will achieve a firm and secure lock, once the protrusion 118 and the groove 152 are interlocked, simple efforts to rotate the parts in either direction will be thwarted. Thus, once the locking engagement is established, it is not easily unlocked, and therefore the correct position should be carefully chosen before parts 102 and 104 are locked together. Because the user can align the locking protrusions 118 and 150 in the base component 102 and cover component 104 before locking them in place, careful users can easily avoid accidentally locking them in the wrong position.

[0083] If the cover 104, which is already locked to the base component 102, is to be repositioned, the user must intentionally apply considerable force to unlock the protrusion 118, allowing the cover 104 to be positioned as desired on the locking protrusion 118 of the base component 102 in an additional increment. If done carefully, the intentional effort to unlock the protrusion 118 will be successful. However, care should be taken to release the protrusion 118 in a manner that it returns toward the axial channel 160, so that the small-angle side 164 can again help deflect the cover 104 to relock it in the desired position. Otherwise, difficulties in relocking the parts 102, 104 can be expected.

[0084] While an exemplary mating angle of the end edges 124 of the locking groove 152 and the locking protrusion 118 is illustrated, the mating angle can be varied in other embodiments. A smaller mating angle will allow for locking or unlocking with less force, while a larger mating angle will allow for locking or unlocking with more force to achieve the locked or unlocked position of the package 100. Similarly, the relative magnitude of the force required to lock or unlock the package can be changed by increasing or decreasing the height and depth of the locking protrusion 118 and the locking groove 124, thereby changing the amount of deflection of the cover 104 required to achieve the locked or unlocked position.

[0085] Back Figures 9 to 11 A pair of anti-sway protrusions 170 extend radially inward from the outer surface of the circular tubular portion 140 at the distal end 144 of the cover 104. The anti-sway protrusions 170 are respectively centered at 180° positions on the tubular portion 140 and thus opposite each other on the circumference of the tubular portion 140. The 180° positions of the anti-sway protrusions 170 also lie between 180° positions of a pair of interlocking portions 148. As shown, the anti-sway protrusions 170 also include circumferential and axial portions. When the locking protrusion 118 and the locking groove 152 engage, structural support is provided between the base member 102 and the cover near the distal end 144 of the cover 104 in both circumferential and axial positions. Such relative movement, such as tilting or swaying, is substantially prevented unless the relative movement between the base member 102 and the cover 104 at the distal end 144 of the cover 104 is eliminated. While exemplary shapes and geometries of the anti-shake protrusion 170 have been shown and described, other shapes and geometries are possible and can be adopted with similar advantages.

[0086] Given that the base component 102 also has the anti-shake feature described above at its distal end 128, the assembled package 100 is doubly supported by the anti-locking features of the base component 102 and the cover 104. This robust locking construction with the aforementioned anti-shake feature provides a higher quality experience for the end user and improves the reliability of the package 100 as it undergoes further processing.

[0087] The base component 102 and cover 104 described and illustrated can be formed and manufactured from known plastic materials using known molding processes, resulting in an integral or monolithic structure having all the features shown and described. The base component 102 and cover 104 can be made of the same or different plastic materials. At least the plastic material of the cover 104 appropriately exhibits a certain degree of resilience to deflect and complete the locking engagement, while still achieving a stable mechanical connection with the base component 102, wherein there is almost no mechanical clearance in the locked position. The advantageously described telescopic tubular torsion locking package 100 can be manufactured at a relatively low cost with an efficient structure and a highly intuitive way of use, allowing the end user to adjust the length of the package for optimal use of the specific object to be packaged. The improved package 100 provides highly reliable and secure locking features that resist unintentional changes in axial position, locking, or unlocking, and the improved package 100 is mechanically stable and robust to avoid wobbling problems, thereby improving the user experience and further improving package reliability.

[0088] It should be recognized that while the features of package 100 are shown in combination in the illustrated embodiments, in some embodiments, not all of the features are required to achieve meaningful benefits. For example, and by way of example only, the anti-lock feature may be considered optional and not required in some embodiments. Therefore, the features may be implemented individually and in combination to provide different degrees of the said benefits and advantages.

[0089] Figures 20 to 28 These are various views of an exemplary telescopic torsion-locking package 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Similar to the component 100 described above, the package 200 includes a base component 202 and a cover 204, which are selectively adjustable relative to each other between maximum and minimum telescopic positions. The base component 202 and the cover 204 share common features with the base component 102 and the cover 204 in... Figures 20 to 28 The same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings, and the benefits of packages 100 and 200, which have such common features, are similar.

[0090] Figure 28 A cover 204 is shown assembled to a base component 204 in an unlocked state, wherein the cover 204 engages with the base component 202 and is free to slide on the base component 202 in the unlocked state.

[0091] like Figure 21 Assembly diagram, Figure 22 Main view and Figure 24As shown in the cross-sectional view, the base component 202 includes two pairs of aligned, grouped locking protrusions 118, arranged in vertical rows on the circular outer periphery of the tubular portion 110. The first pair of locking protrusions 118 are centered at 180° positions on the outer periphery of the tubular portion 110, thus facing each other directly above the directional arrows and lock / unlock indicators 116 of the tubular portion 110. The second pair of locking protrusions 118 are also centered at 180° positions on the outer periphery of the tubular portion 110 and centered between the first pair of locking protrusions 118. In other words, the result of the two pairs of locking protrusions is that the vertical rows of locking protrusions extend at 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270° positions on the circular outer periphery of the tubular portion 110. In this arrangement, when engaged near the distal end 128 of the base member 102, the second pair of aligned grouped locking protrusions 118 stably support the cover member 204 and prevent wobbling of the assemblies 202 and 204. Thus, the second pair of aligned grouped locking protrusions 118 eliminates the need for the anti-wobbling protrusions 126 of the base member 102 as described above, thereby omitting such anti-wobbling protrusions 126 from the base member 202.

[0092] like Figure 23 Side view and Figure 24 As shown in the cross-sectional view, the cover 204 includes a first pair of recessed interlocking portions 148 and a second pair of recessed interlocking portions 210. The first pair of recessed interlocking portions is used to mate with a first pair of locking protrusions 118, while the second pair of recessed interlocking portions is used to mate with a second pair of locking protrusions 118. The first pair of recessed interlocking portions 148 includes an outwardly facing row of protrusions 150 defining an internal recess 152. Similar to the cover 102, the first pair of recessed interlocking portions 148 includes a guide wall 158, which forms a large-angle side 162 on one side of the axial channel 160. Figure 14 and Figure 15 Furthermore, a small-angle side 164 is formed on the other side of the axial channel 160.

[0093] like Figure 24 As best shown, in the unlocked position of package 200, each protrusion 118 is positioned adjacent to a relatively steep sidewall that serves as a stop surface to prevent parts 204 and 206 from rotating beyond the unlocked position. Thus, in Figure 24 In the view, it generally prevents the base component from rotating relative to the cover 204 in a clockwise direction and / or prevents the cover 204 from rotating relative to the base component 202 in a counterclockwise direction.

[0094] However, in the unlocked position, the first pair of locking protrusions 118 can slide freely in the channel 160 along the axis 106 of the package 200, while the second pair of locking protrusions can slide freely in the axial channel 212 defined by the recessed interlocking portion 210. Thus, the user can adjust the relative axial position of the base component 102 and the cover 204 to select the optimal desired position for the packaged object among multiple tiered positions. However, unlike the channel 160, the channel 212 does not include deflectable shallow sidewalls such that when components 202 and 204 rotate relative to each other (e.g., component 202 rotates counterclockwise and / or component 204 rotates clockwise), only wall 164 deflects to lock the first pair of protrusions 218 in the internal recess 252, as... Figure 26 As shown in the cross-sectional view. The second pair of locking protrusions 118 in channel 212 can move freely without deflecting any part of the cover 204. Comparison Figure 24 and Figure 26 The second pair of locking protrusions 118 move between the opposite edges of the channel 212 in the unlocked and locked positions, but neither is in a positive locking position in the locked or unlocked state.

[0095] like Figure 27 As shown in the detailed diagram, the angles on both sides of the locking protrusion 118 and the angle within the locking groove 152 can be different from each other to provide greater rotational resistance in the first rotational direction than in the second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction. This increases the degree of locking in the mating parts of the package via a steeper angle that more strongly resists unlocking of the package 200, while a shallower angle on the opposite side facilitates locking by the user applying a relatively small force.

[0096] Figure 29 This is a partial view of an exemplary telescopic twist-lock package 300 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The twist-lock package 300 is a modification of a package 200 that includes two pairs of locking protrusions 118.

[0097] Packaging assembly 300 includes a combination of a recessed interlocking portion 210 and an outwardly facing row of protrusions 150. The protrusions 150 define an internal locking recess 152 such that one of the second pair of locking protrusions 118 can be locked in place, while the remaining portions of the second pair of locking protrusions 118 are not forwardly locked. Thus, as shown and described in packages 100 and 200, multiple portions of the first pair of locking protrusions 118 and the second pair of locking protrusions 118 are forwardly locked, while only one of the second pair of protrusions is locked in place. This achieves locking in each of the four 90° positions without significantly increasing the locking force that must be applied by the user.

[0098] The benefits and advantages of the inventive concepts herein have now been fully demonstrated in light of the disclosed exemplary embodiments.

[0099] An embodiment of a telescopic torsion-locking package has been disclosed, comprising a base component and a cover. The base component includes an elongated tubular portion with a smaller diameter having a circular cross-section and a first outer surface, a first set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions arranged in a first axial column on the first outer surface, and a second set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions arranged in a second axial column on the first outer surface, wherein the first and second axial columns are respectively centered at 180° positions on the outer periphery. The cover includes an elongated tubular portion with a larger diameter having a circular cross-section and a second outer surface, and a first and second contoured recessed interlocking portions extending on the second outer surface, wherein the first and second contoured recessed interlocking portions are clearly visible from an advantageous position outside the cover. By means of a first set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions and a second set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions, as well as a first contoured recessed interlocking portion and a second contoured recessed interlocking portion, the base component and the cover component are configured to selectively assemble with each other at multiple graded positions in an adjustable telescoping relationship relative to each other, thereby forming an assembled package with correspondingly different axial lengths.

[0100] Optionally, the first and second contoured recessed interlocking portions may each include a series of outwardly facing rows of protrusions extending flush with the second outer surface. Each of the outwardly facing rows of protrusions defines an internal locking recess to securely receive a selected locking protrusion from a first or second set of locking protrusions of the base component. The shape of each internal locking recess may be designed to approximate, but slightly larger than, one of the locking protrusions. Both the first and second sets of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions may further include a first number of locking protrusions, and one set of outwardly facing rows of protrusions may include a second number of outwardly facing rows of protrusions, wherein the second number is significantly smaller than the first number. The first and second contoured recessed interlocking portions may each define an axial channel for adjacent groups of outward-facing rows of protrusions. The axial channel receives a corresponding locking protrusion from a first set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions and a second set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions. The first set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions and the second set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions may slide along the axial channel to selectively engage the base component and the cover at one of a plurality of graded positions.

[0101] As a further option, the first and second recessed interlocking portions may be defined as guide wall portions extending between a group of outwardly facing rows of protrusions and an axial channel, wherein the guide walls define a small-angle side of the axial channel. When the base member and the cover member rotate relative to each other, each guide wall may resiliently deflect along the small-angle side of the axial channel, causing the first set of aligned, spaced-apart locking protrusions and the second set of aligned, spaced-apart locking protrusions to move in the rotatable direction toward the outwardly facing series of protrusions and the internal locking groove. The first and second recessed interlocking portions may further define a large-angle side of the axial guide channel opposite the small-angle side.

[0102] Each internal locking recess may include a large-angle side to prevent accidental unlocking of the packaging. The cover may also include a pair of anti-sway protrusions extending radially inward from the second outer surface, and the pair of anti-sway protrusions may be centered at 180° positions on the second outer surface, and also located between a pair of recessed interlocking portions. The cover may also include hook portions.

[0103] The base component may optionally include at least one guide line extending on the first outer surface as a visual reference for the most credible upper limit of the axial position of the cover relative to the base component. The base component may also include a pair of anti-sway protrusions extending outward from the first outer surface, and the pair of anti-sway protrusions may be centered at 180° positions on the first outer surface, and also located between a first set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions and a second set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions.

[0104] The base component may optionally include a third set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions arranged in a third axial column on a first outer surface and a fourth set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions arranged in a third axial column on the first outer surface, wherein the third and fourth sets of aligned and spaced locking protrusions are respectively located between the first and second sets of aligned and spaced locking protrusions. The cover may also define a third and fourth recessed interlocking portion extending on the second outer surface, which receive the third and fourth sets of aligned and spaced locking protrusions. Selected locking protrusions among the third and fourth aligned and spaced locking protrusions are freely movable within the third and fourth recessed interlocking portions between a locked and unlocked position of the package without deflecting any part of the cover. The third and fourth sets of locking protrusions may also define at least one locking groove to lockably receive at least one of the locking protrusions.

[0105] The base component and cover may optionally be provided with at least one visual indicator for reference by personnel to align the base component and cover, lock the base component and cover in a desired position, or unlock the base component and cover.

[0106] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention (including the best mode) and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any combination of methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to a person skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A telescopic twist-lock packaging, comprising: The base component includes an elongated tubular portion with a smaller diameter having a circular cross-section and a first outer surface, a first set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions arranged in a first axial column on the first outer surface, and a second set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions arranged in a second axial column on the first outer surface, wherein the first axial column and the second axial column are respectively centered at a 180° position on the outer periphery. and A cover includes an elongated tubular portion of a larger diameter having a circular cross-section and a second outer surface, and a first contoured recessed interlocking portion and a second contoured recessed interlocking portion extending on the second outer surface, wherein the first contoured recessed interlocking portion and the second contoured recessed interlocking portion are clearly visible from an advantageous position outside the cover. In this configuration, the base component and the cover are configured to selectively assemble with each other at multiple graded locations in an adjustable telescoping relationship relative to each other, by means of the first set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions and the second set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions, as well as the first contoured recessed interlocking portion and the second contoured recessed interlocking portion, to form assembled packages with correspondingly different axial lengths. and The first and second contoured recessed interlocking portions each define an axial channel for adjacent, outwardly facing rows of protrusions. The axial channel receives a corresponding locking protrusion from the first set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions and the second set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions. The corresponding locking protrusion from the first set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions and the second set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions is slidable along the axial channel to selectively engage the base member and the cover member at one of the plurality of graded positions.

2. The telescopic twist-lock packaging of claim 1, wherein a group of outward-facing rows of protrusions extend flush with the second outer surface, each of the outward-facing rows of protrusions defining an internal locking groove to lockably receive a selected locking protrusion from a first group or a second group of locking protrusions of the base component.

3. The telescopic twist-lock packaging according to claim 2, wherein the shape of each internal locking groove is designed to approximate but slightly larger than one of the locking protrusions.

4. The telescopic twist-lock packaging according to claim 2, wherein the first set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions and the second set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions each include a first number of locking protrusions, and wherein the grouped outward-facing row of protrusions includes a second number of outward-facing row of protrusions, wherein the second number is much smaller than the first number.

5. The telescopic torsion locking package of claim 2, wherein the first contoured recessed interlocking portion and the second contoured recessed interlocking portion are each further defined in a guide wall portion extending between a group of outwardly facing rows of protrusions and the axial channel, the guide wall defining a small-angle side of the axial channel.

6. The telescopic torsion locking package of claim 5, wherein when the base member and the cover member rotate relative to each other, each guide wall is resiliently deflected at a small angle along the axial channel to move the first set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions and the second set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions in a rotatable direction toward the group of outward-facing row protrusions and the internal locking groove.

7. The telescopic torsion locking package according to claim 6, wherein the first contoured recessed interlocking portion and the second contoured recessed interlocking portion each further define a large-angle side of the axial channel opposite to the small-angle side.

8. The telescopic twist-lock packaging according to claim 2, wherein each internal locking groove includes a large-angle side to prevent accidental unlocking of the packaging.

9. The telescopic twist-lock packaging of claim 1, wherein the cover further comprises a pair of anti-shake protrusions extending radially inward from the second outer surface.

10. The telescopic torsion locking package according to claim 9, wherein the pair of anti-shake protrusions are respectively centered at 180° positions on the second outer surface, and are also located between the first contoured recessed interlocking portion and the second contoured recessed interlocking portion.

11. The telescopic twist-lock packaging according to claim 1, wherein the cover includes a hook portion.

12. The telescopic torsion-locking package of claim 1, wherein the base component further includes at least one guide line extending on the first outer surface as a visual reference for the most credible upper limit of the axial position of the cover relative to the base component.

13. The telescopic twist-lock packaging of claim 1, wherein the base component further includes a pair of anti-shake protrusions extending outward from the first outer surface.

14. The telescopic twist-lock packaging according to claim 13, wherein the pair of anti-shake protrusions are respectively centered at 180° positions on the first outer surface, and are also located between the first set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions and the second set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions.

15. The telescopic torsion locking package of claim 1, wherein the base component further comprises a third set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions arranged in a third axial column on the first outer surface and a fourth set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions arranged in a third axial column on the first outer surface, wherein the third set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions and the fourth set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions are respectively located between the first set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions and the second set of aligned and spaced locking protrusions.

16. The telescopic twist-lock packaging of claim 15, wherein the cover further defines a third and a fourth contoured recessed interlocking portion extending from the second outer surface, the third and fourth contoured recessed interlocking portions receiving the third set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions and the fourth set of aligned and spaced-apart locking protrusions.

17. The telescopic torsion locking package of claim 16, wherein a selected locking protrusion of the third and fourth aligned locking protrusions is movable freely between the locked and unlocked positions of the package in the third and fourth contoured recessed interlocking portions without causing any part of the cover to deflect.

18. The telescopic twist-lock packaging of claim 17, wherein the third set of locking protrusions and the fourth set of locking protrusions further define at least one locking groove to securely receive at least one of the third set of locking protrusions or the fourth set of locking protrusions.

19. The telescopic twist-lock packaging of claim 1, wherein the base component and the cover are each provided with at least one visual indicator for reference by a person to align the base component and the cover, lock the base component and the cover in a desired position, or unlock the base component and the cover.

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