Materials with wide and narrow panels, and packages with materials

Abstract

Material with wide and narrow panels, and package with material The blank includes two or more wide panels and at least two narrow panels attached to the two or more wide panels, each of the two or more wide panels being separated from one another by at least one of the at least two narrow panels, a first narrow panel of the at least two narrow panels defining a first tear strip, the first tear strip having a first longitudinal length spanning a first width of the first narrow panel, the first longitudinal length being perpendicular to a second longitudinal length of the blank.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The exemplary embodiments relate generally to packaging for consumer products that includes one or more trays. [Background technology]

[0002] The packaging may store and sell consumer products that may be affected by exposure to ambient air. Summary of the Invention

[0003] At least one exemplary embodiment is directed to materials.

[0004] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material includes two or more wide panels and at least two narrow panels attached to the two or more wide panels, each of the two or more wide panels separated from one another by at least one of the at least two narrow panels, a first narrow panel of the at least two narrow panels defining a first tear strip, the first tear strip having a first longitudinal length spanning a first width of the first narrow panel, the first longitudinal length being perpendicular to a second longitudinal length of the material.

[0005] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material is configured to be at least partially wrapped around an outer container, and a first shape of the two or more wide panels conforms to a second shape of two major surfaces on the outer container.

[0006] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the two or more wide panels are configured to directly contact and at least partially cover the two major surfaces, which face each other on the outer container.

[0007] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the at least two narrow panels are configured to at least partially cover an opening in the outer container, providing tamper resistance.

[0008] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tear strip is configured to align with and at least partially cover an opening in the outer container to provide tamper resistance.

[0009] In at least one exemplary embodiment, an exterior surface of the two or more wide panels includes indicia, the indicia including consumer information.

[0010] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a first exterior surface of the two or more wide panels and a second exterior surface of the at least two narrow panels include indicia, the indicia including consumer information.

[0011] In at least one exemplary embodiment, each of the two or more wide panels has a first major surface that is substantially rectangular in shape, the first major surface having first rounded corners.

[0012] In at least one exemplary embodiment, each of the two or more wider panels has a second width that is approximately twice as wide as the first width.

[0013] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the at least two narrow panels include a second narrow panel, and the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel each have a width equal to the first width.

[0014] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the substrate is a woven fabric of a single material.

[0015] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material is attached to a backing via at least one adhesive, and the material is configured to be peeled from the backing before being connected to an outer container.

[0016] In at least one exemplary embodiment, end panels at the leading end of the blank include the first narrow panel and a first wide panel of the two or more wide panels.

[0017] In at least one exemplary embodiment, an end panel at the leading end of the blank includes a second narrow panel of the at least two narrow panels and a first wide panel of the two or more wide panels.

[0018] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a tab extends from a distal end of the second narrow panel, the tab configured to be adhesively connected to the first wide panel when the material is wrapped around the outer container.

[0019] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first narrow panel is between the first wide panel and a second wide panel, the second wide panel is one of the two or more wide panels, and the first wide panel and the second wide panel are panels of equal size.

[0020] In at least one exemplary embodiment, side edges of the second narrow panel define a pair of alignment notches, the pair of alignment notches being aligned along a third width of the second narrow panel, the third width being perpendicular to the second longitudinal length.

[0021] In at least one exemplary embodiment, end panels at the leading end of the blank include a first wide panel and a second wide panel of the two or more wide panels.

[0022] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first narrow panel is between the first wide panel and a third wide panel, a second narrow panel of the at least two narrow panels is between the second wide panel and the third wide panel, and the third wide panel is one of the two or more wide panels.

[0023] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the two or more wide panels each have a second width, and the first wide panel and the second wide panel each have a third longitudinal length, the third longitudinal length being shorter than a fourth longitudinal length of the third wide panel.

[0024] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first wide panel and the second wide panel define straight edges at the most distal ends of the material, the straight edges being perpendicular to the second longitudinal extent, and the third wide panel has a first major surface that is substantially rectangular in shape.

[0025] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first major surface has a first rounded corner having a first radius of curvature, and the first wide panel and the second wide panel define second rounded corners at ends of the straight edges having a second radius of curvature, the second radius of curvature being smaller than the first radius of curvature.

[0026] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first wide panel and the second wide panel each define a pair of opposing rounded corners facing the third wide panel, the pair of opposing rounded corners having a third radius of curvature equal to the first radius of curvature.

[0027] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second narrow panel defines a second tear strip.

[0028] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tear strip is configured to tear in a first direction and the second tear strip is configured to tear in a second direction, the first direction being parallel to and opposite the second direction.

[0029] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tear strip is at least partially defined by a pair of parallel rows of slits, and the tear direction of the first tear strip is unidirectional or bidirectional.

[0030] At least one exemplary embodiment is directed to a package.

[0031] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the package includes an outer container and the material of claim 1 wrapped at least partially around the outer container.

[0032] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a first shape of the two or more wide panels conforms to at least a portion of a second shape of two major surfaces of the outer container.

[0033] In at least one exemplary embodiment, each of the two or more wide panels is configured to directly contact at least a portion of two opposing major surfaces on the outer container.

[0034] In at least one exemplary embodiment, each of the two or more wide panels is adhesively connected to at least a portion of two opposing major surfaces on the outer container.

[0035] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the two opposing major surfaces are of equal size and lie in planes that are parallel to one another.

[0036] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the outer container includes a first portion and a second portion joined at a seam, and the first tear strip is aligned with and at least partially covers a portion of the seam, providing tamper resistance to the package.

[0037] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the outer container includes a first portion and a second portion joined at a seam that surrounds the outer container, the at least two narrow panels including a second narrow panel, and the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel each straddle the seam.

[0038] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second narrow panel defines a second tear strip, and the first tear strip and the second tear strip are aligned with and at least partially cover the seam, providing tamper resistance.

[0039] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the side edges of the second narrow panel define a pair of alignment notches, and the first tear strip and the pair of alignment notches are aligned with and at least partially cover the seam, providing tamper resistance.

[0040] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material surrounds the outer container.

[0041] In at least one exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the two or more wide panels are adhesively connected to the outer container, and the material does not completely surround the outer container.

[0042] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material includes two end panels at a distal end of the material, each of the two or more wide panels being one of the two or more wide panels, and a gap between the edges of the two end panels exposes a portion of the outer container that is visible when the material is connected to the outer container.

[0043] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the outer container includes rounded side edges along first and second end walls of the first and second sections, and the first and second narrow panels include fold lines that subdivide portions of the first and second narrow panels into chamfered regions that straddle and directly contact at least a portion of the rounded side edges. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0044] Various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein will become more apparent from a consideration of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly stated. Various dimensions of the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0045] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of an outer container for a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0046] [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a side view of an outer container according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0047] [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a front view of an outer container according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0048] [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a top view of an outer container in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0049] [Figure 5] 1 is an illustration of an exploded view of elements of a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0050] [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a first portion of an outer container of a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0051] [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a side view of a first portion of an outer container according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0052] [Figure 8]8 illustrates a cross-sectional view (VIII-VIII view of FIG. 6) of a first portion of an outer container according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0053] [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a first tray of a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0054] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is another perspective view illustration of a first tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0055] [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a bottom view of a first tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0056] [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a bottom perspective view of a first tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0057] [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is another bottom perspective view illustration of a first tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0058] [Figure 14] 1 is an illustration of a front view of a first tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0059] [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a side view of a first tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0060] [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a first tray holding consumer products according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0061] [Figure 17]FIG. 1 is an illustration of a top view of a first tray holding consumer products according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0062] [Figure 18] 18 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XVIII-XVIII of FIG. 17) of a first tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0063] [Figure 19] 18 illustrates a cross-sectional view (view XVIII-XVIII of FIG. 17) of a first tray holding consumer products according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0064] [Figure 20] 19 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XIX-XIX of FIG. 17) of a first tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0065] [Figure 21] 19 illustrates a cross-sectional view (view XIX-XIX of FIG. 17) of a first tray holding consumer products according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0066] [Figure 22] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a first tray and a second tray held in a first portion according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0067] [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a perspective view of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0068] [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a perspective view of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0069] [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a top view of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0070] [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a bottom view of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0071] [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a bottom perspective view of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0072] [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is another bottom perspective view illustration of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0073] [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a side view of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0074] [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is another side view illustration of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0075] [Figure 31] FIG. 21 illustrates a cross-sectional view (view XXXI-XXXI of FIG. 25) of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0076] [Figure 32] FIG. 21 illustrates another cross-sectional view (View XXXI-XXXI of FIG. 25) of a second tray holding consumer information material according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0077] [Figure 33] FIG. 23 illustrates another cross-sectional view (view XXXIII-XXXIII of FIG. 25) of the second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0078] [Figure 34] 1 is an illustration of a consumer product and a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0079] [Figure 35] 10 is an illustration of consumer products in a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0080] [Figure 36] 10 is an illustration of consumer product information held within a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0081] [Figure 37] 1 is an illustration of a first tray connected to a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0082] [Figure 38] 23 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XXXVIII-XXXVIII of FIG. 22) of a first tray connected to a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0083] [Figure 39] 1 is an illustration of a first tray connected to a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0084] [Figure 40] FIG. 23 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XL-XL of FIG. 22) of a first tray connected to a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0085] [Figure 41] FIG. 21 illustrates another cross-sectional view (view XLI-XLI of FIG. 22) of a first tray connected to a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0086] [Figure 42] 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view (view XLII-XLII of FIG. 1) of an outer container housing a first tray and a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0087] [Figure 43]4 illustrates another cross-sectional view (view XLIII-XLIII of FIG. 1) of an outer container housing a first tray and a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0088] [Figure 44] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view (view XLII-XLII of FIG. 1) of an outer container containing a first tray but not a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0089] [Figure 45] FIG. 4 illustrates another cross-sectional view (FIG. 4-4 of FIG. 1) of an outer container containing a first tray but not a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0090] [Figure 46] 1 is an illustration of an exploded view of a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0091] [Figure 47] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0092] [Figure 48] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a top perspective view of an insert according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0093] [Figure 49] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a top view of a base of an insert in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0094] [Figure 50] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a side view of a base of an insert in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0095] [Figure 51] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a bottom view of a base of an insert in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0096] [Figure 52] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a rear view of a base of an insert according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0097] [Figure 53] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a front view of a base of an insert according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0098] [Figure 54] FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a base housing a consumer product according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0099] [Figure 55] 1 is an illustration of a top view of a base housing a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0100] [Figure 56] FIG. 1 is a top front perspective view of a consumer product according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0101] [Figure 57] FIG. 1 is a top view of a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0102] [Figure 58] FIG. 1 is a side view of a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0103] [Figure 59] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0104] [Figure 60] FIG. 1 is a front view of a consumer product according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0105] [Figure 61] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a consumer product within a base in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0106] [Figure 62] FIG. 1 is a front view of a consumer product within a base in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0107] [Figure 63] 55A-55C are cross-sectional views (views LXIII-LXIII of FIG. 55) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0108] [Figure 64] 55A-55C are cross-sectional views (LXIV-LXIV views of FIG. 55) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0109] [Figure 65] 55A-55C are cross-sectional views (view LXV-LXV of FIG. 55) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0110] [Figure 66] FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a base housing a consumer product according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0111] [Figure 67A] 1 is an illustration of a side view of a base housing a consumer product according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0112] [Figure 67B] 10 is another side view illustration of a base housing a consumer product according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0113] [Figure 68] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a top perspective view of an insert containing a consumer product according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0114] [Figure 69] FIG. 1 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an insert containing a consumer product according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0115] [Figure 70] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a base housing multiple consumer products according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0116] [Figure 71] FIG. 1 is a top view of a base housing multiple consumer products according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0117] [Figure 72] FIG. 1 is a side view of a base housing multiple consumer products according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0118] [Figure 73] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a base housing multiple consumer products according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0119] [Figure 74] FIG. 1 is a top view of a base including a plurality of consumer products according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0120] [Figure 75] FIG. 1 is a side view of a base housing multiple consumer products according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0121] [Figure 76] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an insert held within a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0122] [Figure 77A] 1 is an illustration of a material for a band in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0123] [Figure 77B] 1 is an illustration of a material for a band in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0124] [Figure 78A]1 is an illustration of a material for a band in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0125] [Figure 78B] 1 is an illustration of a material for a band in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0126] [Figure 79A] 1 is an illustration of a material for a band in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0127] [Figure 79B] 1 is an illustration of a material for a band in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0128] [Figure 80A] 1 is an illustration of a tear strip for a band according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0129] [Figure 80B] 1 is an illustration of a tear strip for a band according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0130] [Figure 81] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band arranged to be connected to a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0131] [Figure 82] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band arranged to be connected to a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0132] [Figure 83] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0133] [Figure 84] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0134] [Figure 85] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0135] [Figure 86] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0136] [Figure 87] 1 is an illustration of a side view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0137] [Figure 88] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band arranged to be connected to a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0138] [Figure 89] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band arranged to be connected to a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0139] [Figure 90] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0140] [Figure 91] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0141] [Figure 92] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0142] [Figure 93] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0143] [Figure 94] 1 is an illustration of a side view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0144] [Figure 95] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band positioned to be connected to a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0145] [Figure 96] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band positioned to be connected to a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0146] [Figure 97] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0147] [Figure 98] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0148] [Figure 99] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0149] [Figure 100] 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0150] [Figure 101] 1 is an illustration of a side view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0151] Although several detailed exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing the exemplary embodiments, however, the exemplary embodiments may be embodied in many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to only the exemplary embodiments set forth herein.

[0152] Accordingly, while example embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the example embodiments are intended to encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0153] When an element or layer is referred to as "on," "connected to," "coupled to," or "covering" another element or layer, it is understood that it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer, or that intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout this specification. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations or subcombinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0154] In this specification, terms such as first, second, and third may be used to describe various elements, regions, layers, and / or sections; however, it should be understood that these elements, regions, layers, and / or sections are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, region, layer, or section described below could be referred to as a second element, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0155] For convenience of description, spatially relative terms (e.g., "below," "belower," "lower side," "upper," "upper," etc.) may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as shown in the figures. It should be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device during use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, elements described as "below" or "below" other elements or features would now be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the term "below" may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein would be interpreted accordingly.

[0156] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be further understood that as used herein, the terms "comprise," "include," "comprises," "consist," and / or "consisting of" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0157] In this specification, when the terms "about" and "substantially" are used in connection with numerical values, unless expressly defined otherwise, the associated numerical value is intended to include a tolerance of ±10% around the stated numerical value.

[0158] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments belong. Furthermore, terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined as such in this specification.

[0159] Example embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-section illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the example embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Thus, example embodiments are not to be construed as limited to the shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

[0160] package

[0161] Figure 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of an outer container 100 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 is an illustration of a side view of an outer container 100 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 is an illustration of a front view of an outer container 100 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 is an illustration of a top view of an outer container 100 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0162] In at least one exemplary embodiment, outer container 100 includes a first section 110 and a second section 120. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first section 110 is a lower section of outer container 100 and second section 120 is an upper section of outer container 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first section 110 and second section 120 combine to form a "clamshell" type configuration of outer container 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first section 110 and second section 120 are identical to one another and are therefore interchangeable with one another.

[0163] In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the outer container 100 is in the "closed" configuration and the outer container 100 houses the first tray 500 (see FIGS. 1-3), the ridge 130 (see at least FIG. 9) of the first tray 500 extends between the first section 110 and the second section 120. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the ridge 130 helps form a portion of the exterior surface 150 of the package 4600 that includes the outer container 100 (see FIG. 47), such that the exterior surface 200 of the ridge 130 is substantially visible when the outer container 100 is in the "closed" configuration and houses the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the exterior surface 200 of the ridge 130 is flush with the exterior surfaces 205 of the first section 110 and the second section 120 when the outer container 100 is in the "closed" configuration (see FIG. 2).

[0164] In at least one exemplary embodiment, outer surfaces 205 of first section 110 and second section 120 each have a flat major surface 140 ( FIG. 1 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, flat major surfaces 140 of first section 110 and second section 120 are parallel to one another and face each other across outer container 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, flat major surfaces 140 have a rectangular shape with rounded corners 145. In at least one exemplary embodiment, outer surfaces 205 of first section 110 and second section 120 have rounded side edges 210 (see FIGS. 2 and 3 ).

[0165] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a main element 550 of a package 4600 (see FIG. 47) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0166] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the main element 550 includes the outer container 100 (first section 110 and second section 120), the first tray 500, the second tray 510, and the band 520. In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the outer container 100 is in a "closed" configuration, the outer container 100 can accommodate both the first tray 500 and the second tray 510. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are removable from the outer container 100, and the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are reinsertable into the outer container 100 after being removed from the outer container 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 520 surrounds at least a portion of the outer container 100 to form a package 4600 (see FIG. 47). In at least one exemplary embodiment, band 520 is a "belly band" that encircles at least a portion of the mid-section of outer container 100 (as shown at least in FIG. 47).

[0167] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the outer container 100, the first tray 500, and the second tray 510 are made from the same material. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the outer container 100, the first tray 500, and the second tray 510 are made from recyclable materials. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the outer container 100, the first tray 500, and the second tray 510 are made from a cardboard material or cardboard composite, PaperFoam®, industrial starch including potato or tapioca mixed with cellulose fibers, wood pulp, biopolymers, other suitable packaging materials, or combinations thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the outer container 100, the first tray 500, and the second tray 510 are made from different materials.

[0168] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a perspective view of the first portion 110 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 7 is an illustration of a side view of the first portion 110 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 8 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view VIII-VIII of FIG. 6) of the first portion 110 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. In one embodiment, the first portion 110 and the second portion 120 are identical. Thus, the following description of the first portion 110 applies equally to the second portion 120.

[0169] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first section 110 includes an end wall (floor) 600, a first side wall 610, and a second side wall 620. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first side wall 610 has a longer longitudinal length relative to the second side wall 620 (as shown in FIG. 6), thereby giving the outer container 100 a rectangular shape in perspective (see FIG. 4). In other exemplary embodiments, the first side wall 610 and the second side wall 620 have the same longitudinal length, thereby giving the outer container 100 a square shape in perspective (not shown). Other shapes for the outer container 100 are also contemplated.

[0170] In at least one exemplary embodiment, first portion 110 includes rounded corners 630 where end wall 600 meets first and second side walls 610, 620. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first and second side walls 610, 620 have peripheral edges 640 that are the extreme ends of first and second side walls 610, 620. In at least one exemplary embodiment, when outer container 100 is in the closed position and contains first tray 500, peripheral edges 640 of first and second portions 110, 120 grip ridges 130 of first tray 500 (see at least FIGS. 1 and 42-43 ).

[0171] In at least one exemplary embodiment, first thickness 800 of end wall 600 is the same as second thickness 810 of second side wall 620 and / or first side wall 610, thereby providing first portion 110 with a uniform thickness. In at least one exemplary embodiment, second side wall 620 and first side wall 610 have the same second thickness 810. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first thickness 800 is greater than second thickness 810. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first thickness 800 and second thickness 810 are both within a range of about 1.5 mm to 3.5 mm, or about 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, or about 2 mm.

[0172] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second side wall 620 (and similarly the first side wall 610) flares outward slightly such that a first distance 820 across the inner longitudinal length of the first portion 110 is less than a second distance 830 across the inner longitudinal length of the first portion 110.

[0173] 9-10 are illustrations of perspective views of first tray 500 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 11 is an illustration of a bottom view of first tray 500.

[0174] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray 500 includes an upper wall 900. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray 500 includes a side wall 917 that surrounds the periphery of an upper portion of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a ridge 130 divides the side wall 917 into an upper side wall 920 and a lower side wall 930. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the upper ridge 915 and the lower ridge 925 are the upper and lower surfaces defined by the ridge 130. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the upper wall 900 defines a rounded edge 945 where the side wall 917 meets the upper surface (top surface) 992 of the first tray 500 along the periphery of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sidewalls 917 define rounded corners 905 on the four corners of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, lower portions 940 of the rounded corners 905, and in at least one exemplary embodiment, the lower sidewall 930, define protrusions 935. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 935 are substantially equally spaced along the lower sidewall 930 of the first tray 500, and the protrusions are oriented perpendicular to the lower sidewall 930 (see at least FIGS. 12 and 13 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 935 are defined by the lower sidewall 930 and include at least one protrusion on each of the four sides of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the first tray 500 is held in the first portion 110, the protrusions 935 are positioned on the lower side wall 930 to space the lower side wall 930 away from the first side wall 610 and the second side wall 620 of the first portion 110, in order to allow the first tray 500 to be more easily removed from the first portion 110 of the outer container 100 and to prevent moisture from accumulating between the lower side wall 930 and the first side wall 610 or the second side wall 620 (FIG. 6).

[0175] In at least one exemplary embodiment, upper wall 900 defines a recess 970. In at least one exemplary embodiment, recess 970 is an offset "impression" of consumer product 1600 (see at least FIG. 16 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, recess 970 defines a cavity for holding consumer product 1600. In at least one exemplary embodiment, recess 970 includes a floor 960. In at least one exemplary embodiment, floor 960 defines a ridge 950. In at least one exemplary embodiment, floor 960 defines an opening 955. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the opening 955 can be used to assist in removing the first tray 500 from the second tray 510 or the first portion 110 of the outer container 100 (see at least FIG. 22, which shows the first tray 500 connected to both the second tray 510 and the first portion 110), and the opening 955 can be grasped, for example, by fingers or a simple tool.

[0176] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 970 includes a substantially vertical sidewall 910. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sidewall 910 includes rounded corners 965. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 970 includes three recesses 990 including a first hemisphere 975, a second hemisphere 980, and a shallow portion 982. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first hemisphere 975 and the second hemisphere 980 have semi-elliptical footprints (see at least FIGS. 9-11 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, each recess 990 includes a sloped sidewall 985 that flares outward from the floor of the recess 990 to an upper surface 992 of the upper wall 900. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 970 includes rounded edges 995 along an upper periphery of the recess 970 where the sidewall 910 / 985 meets the upper surface 992 of the upper wall 900. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 970 includes rounded lower corners 986 along the lower corner edges of the recess 970 at the transition between the ridge 950 and the floor 960. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the shallow portion 982 includes rounded corners 998 that reduce "pinch points" for the consumer products 1600 and allow the consumer products 1600 to be more easily grasped and handled when removing the consumer products 1600 from the first tray 500 and / or when placing the consumer products 1600 on the first tray 500 (see FIGS. 9-10 and 16 ).

[0177] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first hemisphere 975 includes a pair of protrusions 996 on an upper side edge of the first hemisphere 975 (the end of the first hemisphere 975 near the shallow portion 982). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 996 protrude slightly from the sloped sidewalls 985 of the first hemisphere 975 and the second hemisphere 980 (see FIGS. 9-10 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 996 can gently contact the consumer product 1600 to assist in holding the consumer product 1600 while allowing for a gap between the sloped sidewalls 985 and the edge of the consumer product 1600 (as will be described in more detail in connection with FIGS. 16 and 17 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 996 further assist in allowing for easier removal of the consumer product 1600 from the first tray 500.

[0178] 12-13 are bottom perspective views of a first tray 500 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIGS. 14-15 are front and side views of a first tray 500 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0179] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lower sidewall 930 extends vertically downward to form a skirt 1240 at the bottom of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the skirt 1240 has varying depths such that the tips 1250 of the skirt 1240 extend to different locations. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the skirt 1240 has a first depth 1200 (see FIG. 14 ) along an end region 1400 of the first tray 500, a second depth 1210 along the rounded corners 905, and a third depth 1220 (see FIG. 15 ) along a side region 1500 of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first depth 1200 and the third depth 1220 are shorter than the second depth 1210. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second depth 1210 is longer than the first depth 1200 and the third depth 1220, as described in more detail in connection with Figures 40-41, to allow the lower portion 940 of the rounded corner 905 to be gently gripped by the second tray 510. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first depth 1200 and the third depth 1220 are the same depth.

[0180] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the ridges 130 extend horizontally from the sidewall 917 such that the surfaces of the upper ridges 915 and lower ridges 925 are parallel to the upper surface 992 of the first tray 500.

[0181] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 , in at least one exemplary embodiment, the width of the first tray 500 is approximately 95 mm to 115 mm, or approximately 100 mm to 110 mm, or approximately 106 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the length 1510 of the first tray 500 is approximately 140 mm to 160 mm, or approximately 105 mm to 155 mm, or approximately 153 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the height 1420 of the first tray 500 is approximately 15 mm to 30 mm, or approximately 18 mm to 25 mm, or approximately 21 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the height 1430 of the ridge 130 is approximately 1 mm to 5 mm, or approximately 2 mm to 4 mm, or approximately 3 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the depth 1520 of the ridge 130 is in the range of about 1.5 mm to about 3.5 mm, or about 2.0 mm to about 3.0 mm, or about 2.5 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the height 1440 of the upper sidewall 920 is in the range of about 7 mm to about 15 mm, or about 10 mm to about 12 mm, or about 11 mm.

[0182] 16-17 illustrate perspective and top views of a first tray 500 holding consumer products 1600 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIGS. 18-21 illustrate cross-sectional views (FIGS. 18-18 and 19-21 of FIG. 17) of a first tray 500 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0183] 16 and 17 , when the consumer product 1600 is stored in the first tray 500, the top side of the consumer product 1660 is visible from at least an overhead view of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a first gap 1610 exists between the side of the consumer product 1600 and the side wall 910 of the recess 970. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first gap 1610 is large enough that a substantial portion of the floor 960 of the recess 970 is visible from a top view of the first tray 500 (see at least FIG. 17 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first gap 1610 allows sufficient space for the consumer product 1600 to be easily grasped and removed from the first tray 500.

[0184] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a second gap 1620 exists between the first end 1600a of the consumer product 1600 and the angled sidewall 985 of the shallow portion 982. In at least one exemplary embodiment, due in part to the placement of the protrusions 996 (see FIG. 17 ), a third gap 1630 and a fourth gap 1640 exist between the angled sidewalls 985 of the second hemisphere portion 980 and the first hemisphere portion 975, respectively, which gently grip the sides of the consumer product 1600. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first gap 1610, the second gap 1620, the third gap 1630, and / or the fourth gap 1640 help to allow the consumer product 1600 to be more easily removed from the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the rounded edges 995 along the periphery of the recess 970 and the sloped sidewalls 985 of the recess 990 also help allow the consumer product 1600 to be more easily removed from the first tray 500.

[0185] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sidewalls 917 flare outward such that a first interior width 1820 of the first tray 500 is less than a second interior width 1830 of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sidewalls 917 flare outward at a gentle angle 1800 of approximately 1-2 degrees relative to a vertical plane 1810 (i.e., relative to the direction that is plumb with gravity when the first tray 500 is on a flat surface perpendicular to gravity).

[0186] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 1600 is an electronic device, more particularly a heat-not-burn device (or, alternatively, an electronic cigarette). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 1600 is an accessory or component of an electronic device, more particularly a heat-not-burn device (or, alternatively, an electronic cigarette). In at least one exemplary embodiment, some electronic devices are configured to heat plant material to a temperature sufficient to release components of the plant material while maintaining the temperature below an ignition temperature to avoid self-sustaining combustion or self-sustaining combustion of the plant material (i.e., as opposed to igniting the plant material, such as the end of a lit cigarette). Such devices are characterized by generating an aerosol of the components released upon heating and may be referred to as thermal non-combustion aerosol-generating devices or thermal non-combustion devices.

[0187] It should be understood that heating plant material below its light-off temperature may, in some circumstances, produce incidental and insubstantial levels of oxidation or other pyrolysis by-products. However, in some embodiments, heating in an aerosol-generating device is below the pyrolysis temperature of the plant material so as to produce an aerosol having no or insubstantial levels of pyrolysis by-products of the plant material. Thus, in exemplary embodiments, no pyrolysis of the plant material occurs during heating and the resulting generation of the aerosol. In other embodiments, there may be incidental pyrolysis with production of oxidation or other pyrolysis by-products at insignificant levels relative to the primary components released by heating the plant material.

[0188] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the raised portion 950 holds the side / rear surface 1600b of the consumer product 1600 away from the floor 960 of the first tray 500 such that a gap 1900 exists between the side / rear surface 1600b and the floor 960 (see FIG. 19). In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 18-19, when the second end 1600c of the consumer product 1600 fits into the second hemisphere portion 980, the gap 1900 allows the consumer product 1600 to be more easily grasped in order to remove the consumer product 1600 from the first tray 500.

[0189] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a portion of the recess 970 cradles the backside of the consumer product 1600 along the longitudinal length of the consumer product 1600 (see FIG. 21). In this exemplary embodiment, the first end 1600a of the consumer product 1600 directly contacts the shallow portion 982 and a major surface of the first hemisphere portion 975. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the back surface of the consumer product 1600 directly contacts the raised portion 950. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second end 1600c of the consumer product 1600 directly contacts the second hemisphere portion 980.

[0190] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first end 1600a of the consumer product 1600 is the mouthpiece end of the thermal non-combustion device (or alternatively, the electronic cigarette), and the second end 1600c is the base end (wide end) of the thermal non-combustion device (or alternatively, the electronic cigarette).

[0191] FIG. 22 is an illustration of a perspective view of a first tray 500 and a second tray 510 held within a first section 110 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0192] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lower ridge 925 (see at least FIG. 14 ) of the ridge 130 of the first tray 500 contacts the periphery 640 of the first section 110 (see at least FIG. 6 ) and helps support the first tray 500 within the first section 110. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the ridge 130 supports the first tray 500 within the first section 110 regardless of whether a second tray 510 is also stored within the first section 110 (see FIG. 42 ). In particular, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the lower ridge 925 ( FIG. 12 ) of the first tray 500 rests on and is supported by the periphery 640 ( FIG. 6 ) of the first section 110, as shown in FIGS. 22 and 42 .

[0193] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the opening 955 in the first tray 500 allows the second tray 510 to be partially visible when the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are within the outer container 100 and the second portion 120 is removed from the outer container 100 (as shown in FIG. 22 ).

[0194] 22 , when the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are in the first section 110 and the second section 120 is not in the outer container, the upper surface 992, the upper sidewall 920, the upper ridge 915, and the outer surface 200 of the ridge 130 are directly visible. That is, the upper surface 992, the upper sidewall 920, the upper ridge 915, and the outer surface 200 of the ridge 130 form the visible outer surface of the package 4600 when the second section 120 is first removed from the package 4600.

[0195] 23-28 are illustrations of perspective, top, and bottom views of second tray 510 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0196] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the upper wall 2300 of the second tray 510 defines a major upper side surface 2345, a first (upper) mating surface 2350, a second (lower) mating surface 2370, a first recess 2305, and a second recess 2310. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the major upper side surface 2345 constitutes the top (highest) surface of the second tray 510. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first mating surface 2350 is at a position (vertical height) of the second tray 510 that is between the major upper side surface 2345 and the second mating surface 2370.

[0197] In at least one exemplary embodiment, opposing sidewalls 2375 bracket the sides of second mating surface 2370. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first recess 2305 is defined by sidewall 2320 and floor 2355. In at least one exemplary embodiment, second recess 2310 is defined by sidewall 2325 and floor 2360. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first recess 2305 and / or second recess 2310 have a substantially rectangular shape (see overhead view in FIG. 25 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, first recess 2305 and second recess 2310 have rounded corners 2390. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second tray 510 includes rounded lower corners 2386 along the periphery of the first mating surface 2350, the second mating surface 2370, the floor 2355 of the first recess 2305, and the floor 2360 of the second recess 2310. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first recess 2305 and the second recess 2310 have rounded upper edges 2395. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second tray 510 has rounded edges 2365 along the upper periphery of the upper wall 2300.

[0198] In at least one exemplary embodiment, first depression 2305 and / or second depression 2310 have a substantially rectangular shape (see at least FIG. 25). Other shapes for first depression 2305 and / or second depression 2310 are also contemplated. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first depression 2305 is larger in size (shape) than second depression 2310 (see FIG. 25).

[0199] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the upper wall 2300 of the second tray 510 defines a notch 2315 having an underside (valley) 2335 between the opposing angled walls 2330. In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are in the first section 110 (see FIG. 22 ), the notch 2315 of the second tray 510 is substantially below the opening 955 of the first tray 500, allowing a finger or object to be more easily inserted through the opening 955 to grasp and pull the first tray 500 out of the first section 110.

[0200] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the side wall 2340 extends vertically downward from the upper wall 2300 to form a skirt 2385 along the lower periphery of the second tray 510 . In at least one exemplary embodiment, the skirt portion 2385 has a varying depth such that the tip 2380 of the skirt portion 2385 extends to different heights. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the skirt portion 2385 has a first depth 2720 along a side portion 2725 of the second tray 510 and a second depth 2710 along the rounded corner 2398 of the second tray 510 (see at least FIGS. 27 and 29 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second depth 2710 is greater than the first depth 2720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tip 2380 of the skirt portion 2385 includes a beveled tip surface 2700 at the transition between the side portion 2725 (having the first depth 2720) and the end portion 2730 (having the second depth 2710) of the lower sidewall 2340.

[0201] 29-30 are side view illustrations of a second tray 510 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view (view XXXI-XXXI of FIG. 25) of a second tray 510 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 32 is another cross-sectional view (view XXXI-XXXI of FIG. 25) of a second tray 510 holding consumer information material 3200 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 33 is another cross-sectional view (view XXXIII-XXXIII of FIG. 25) of a second tray 510 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0202] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first mating surface 2350 of the second tray 510 can support and hold a consumer product or a consumer product accessory. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first mating surface 2350 supports and holds consumer informational material 3200 (see at least FIGS. 32 and 36). In at least one exemplary embodiment, an edge 3600 of the major upper side 2345 contacts and holds the consumer informational material 3200 in place on the top of the second tray 510 (see FIG. 36). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer informational material 3200 is material related to the consumer product 1600. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the edge 3600 of the major upper side 2345 is on the opposite side of the consumer informational material 3200 to stably hold the consumer informational material 3200 on the top of the second tray 510.

[0203] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the length 2900 of the second tray 510 is within a range of about 135 mm to 155 mm, or about 140 mm to 150 mm, or about 146 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the height 2910 of the second tray 510 is within a range of about 10 mm to 20 mm, or about 14 mm to 18 mm, or about 16 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the width 3000 of the second tray 510 is within a range of about 90 mm to 110 mm, or about 95 mm to 105 mm, or about 101 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the interior depth 3100 of the second tray 510, from the first mating surface 2350 to the respective floors 2355 / 2360, of the trays 2305 and 2310, is within a range of about 10 mm to 20 mm, or about 12 mm to 18 mm, or about 15 mm.

[0204] 34-36 are illustrations of additional consumer products 3400 held in a second tray 510 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0205] In at least one exemplary embodiment, second tray 510 holds additional consumer products 3400. In at least one exemplary embodiment, additional consumer products 3400 include consumer informational material 3200, a universal serial bus (USB) charger 3410, and an insert 4800. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first recess 2305 is sized to accommodate USB charger 3410 and second recess 2310 is sized to accommodate insert 4800. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first recess 2305 and second recess 2310 are sized to accommodate one or more additional consumer products 3400 while supporting consumer informational material 3200 and allowing it to lie flat on first mating surface 2350. In at least one exemplary embodiment, additional consumer products 3400 are accessories and / or replacements for consumer product 1600. In at least one exemplary embodiment, insert 4800 comprises an item or replacement item for consumer product 1600, as described in more detail herein. In at least one exemplary embodiment, consumer product 1600 is a mouthpiece such as that disclosed in U.S. Application No. 17 / 979,103, filed November 2, 2022 ("Replaceable Mouthpiece for Aerosol Generating Device"), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0206] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the outer periphery of the second tray 510 conforms to the inside of the first section 110 such that the second tray 510 fits perfectly within the first section 110 (see FIGS. 36 and 42-43). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the upper wall 2300 and side wall 2340 of the second tray 510 and the side walls 610 / 620 of the first section 110 combine to define a valley 3610 around the periphery of the second tray 510 when the second tray 510 is within the first section 110 (see FIGS. 36 and 42-43). In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the first tray 500 is placed on the second tray 510 within the first portion 110, the side walls 917 of the first tray 500 fit into the valley portion 3610, providing stable support for the first tray 500 (see particularly Figures 42 and 43).

[0207] FIG. 37 is an illustration of a first tray 500 connected to a second tray 510 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 38 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XXXVIII-XXXVIII of FIG. 22) of a first tray 500 connected to a second tray 510 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 39 is an illustration of a first tray 500 connected to a second tray 510 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 40 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XL-XL of FIG. 22) of a first tray 500 connected to a second tray 510 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 41 is another cross-sectional view (view XLI-XLI of FIG. 22) of a first tray 500 connected to a second tray 510 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0208] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in at least FIGS. 37 and 39 , the lower portion 940 of the rounded corner 905 of the first tray 500 can overhang and grip the rounded corner 2398 of the second tray 510. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the ability of the rounded corner 905 to grip the second tray 510 can allow the first tray 500 and second tray 510 to remain coupled when the second section 120 is removed from the top of the outer container 100 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 22 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, because the sidewall 917 of the first tray 500 flares outward (see FIGS. 18 and 20 ), the lower portion 940 of the rounded corner 905 of the first tray 500 can more easily grip the second tray 510.

[0209] 39 , either the first tray 500 or the second tray 510 can be rotated (specifically, rotated 180 degrees) and still connect to one another. That is, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the first and second ends 3900 and 3910 of the first and second trays 500 and 510 can be connected to one another, respectively, and the third and fourth ends 3930 and 3940 of the first and second trays 500 and 510 can be connected to one another. Or (by way of example), the first tray 500 can be rotated and the first and fourth ends 3900 and 3940 of the first and second trays 500 and 510 can be connected to one another, respectively.

[0210] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 37, the combined height (stack height) 3700 of the first tray 500 and second tray 510 is in the range of approximately 25 mm to 40 mm, or approximately 30 mm to 35 mm, or approximately 33 mm.

[0211] Figure 42 illustrates a cross-sectional view (view XLII-XLII of Figure 1) of an outer container 100 housing a first tray 500 and a second tray 510, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, where the second tray 510 supports consumer information material 3200. Figure 43 illustrates another cross-sectional view (view XLIII-XLIII of Figure 1) of an outer container 100 housing a first tray 500 and a second tray 510, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, where the first tray 500 houses consumer products 1600.

[0212] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the floor 2355 of the first recess 2305 and the floor 2360 of the second recess 2310 of the second tray 510 contact the end wall 600 of the first section 110 of the outer container 100 (see FIG. 42). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the floor 2355 of the first recess 2305 and the floor 2360 of the second recess 2310 of the second tray 510 are on the lowermost side (lowest vertical position) of the second tray 510.

[0213] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the overall shape of the first tray 500 matches the overall shapes of the first and second sections 110, 120. In particular, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the sidewalls 917 of the first tray 500 match the inner surfaces of the first and second sections 110, 120. In at least one exemplary embodiment, as described above, the sidewalls 917 of the first tray 500 fit into the valleys 3610 defined by the first and second sections 110, 120, and the ridges 130 of the first tray 500 are gripped by the peripheral edges 640 of the first and second sections 110, 120.

[0214] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the outer container 100 holding the first tray 500 and second tray 510 has a width 4200 in the range of about 95 mm to 115 mm, or about 100 mm to 110 mm, or about 107 mm, a height 4210 in the range of about 40 mm to 60 mm, or about 45 mm to 55 mm, or about 51 mm, and a length 4300 in the range of about 145 mm to 165 mm, or about 150 mm to 160 mm, or about 153 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the height 4220 of the first section 110 and second section 120 is in the range of about 15 mm to 30 mm, or about 20 mm to 25 mm, or about 22 mm.

[0215] Figure 44 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XLII-XLII of Figure 1) of the outer container 100 housing a first tray 500 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 45 is an illustration of another cross-sectional view (view XLIII-XLIII of Figure 1) of the outer container 100 housing a first tray 500 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0216] 44-45, the outer container 100 can hold only the first tray 500 and not the second tray 510. In this configuration, and in at least one exemplary embodiment, the second tray 510 is "suspended" within the outer container 100 when the second tray 510 is not within the outer container 100 and supports the first tray 500.

[0217] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the interior depth 4400 of the first tray 500 is in the range of about 10 mm to about 20 mm, or about 12.5 mm to about 17.5 mm, or about 15 mm.

[0218] Figure 46 is an illustration of an exploded view of a package 4600 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 47 is an illustration of a perspective view of a package 4600 sealed (closed) using a band 520 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0219] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the package 4600 includes an outer container 100 having a first tray 500 and a second tray 510 (see FIG. 46). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray 500 of the package 4600 contains the consumer products 1600, and the second tray 510 contains the additional consumer products 3400. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a band 520 is connected to or at least partially surrounds the outer container 100 and helps seal the package 4600 (see FIG. 47). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 520 is connected to the outer container 100 such that the band 520 maintains the outer container 100 in a closed position by preventing the outer container 100 from being pried open at the seam 4700 between the first portion 110 and the second portion 120, thereby rendering the package 4600 tamper-resistant.

[0220] Insert

[0221] FIG. 48 is an illustration of a top perspective view of the insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 49 is an illustration of a top view of the base 4810 of the insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 50 is an illustration of a side view of the base 4810 of the insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 51 is an illustration of a bottom view of the base 4810 of the insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 52 is an illustration of a rear view of the base 4810 of the insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 53 is an illustration of a front view of the base 4810 of the insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0222] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the insert 4800 includes a base 4810 and a lid 4850. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid 4850 is connected to a collar 4840 of the base 4810. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid 4850 covers an upper end of the base 4810. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 4810 includes a recess 4820 that defines a cavity 4830. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 4820 extends from an underside 5000 of the collar 4840 (FIG. 50). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the insert 4800 houses a consumer product 5400, as shown in FIG. 54. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 4820 includes a floor (lower side) 4950 and a wall 4960 (see FIG. 49). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wall 4960 includes a first end wall 4900, a second end wall 4910, a first side wall 4920, and a second side wall 4930. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first end wall 4900 and the second end wall 4910 are a first pair of opposing walls 5100 that are substantially parallel to one another (see FIG. 51 ). In particular, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the first end wall 4900 and the second end wall 4910 are parallel to one another within an imaginary horizontal plane that intersects any location in the recess 4820 (see an example of an imaginary horizontal plane 5020 in FIG. 50 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first side wall 4920 and the second side wall 4930 are a second pair of opposing walls 5110 (see FIG. 51 ) that taper toward each other along the longitudinal length of the recess from the first end (second end wall 4910) to the second end (first end wall 4900) of the recess 4820. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 4820 has a trapezoidal shape in overhead perspective view (as shown in FIG. 49 ).

[0223] In at least one exemplary embodiment, recess 4820 includes a corner 4940 where wall 4960 joins ( FIG. 49 ), where corner 4940 is rounded. In at least one exemplary embodiment, recess 4820 includes a corner 4980 at the transition where floor 4950 meets wall 4960, where corner 4980 is rounded (see at least FIGS. 49-50 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, seam 4970 between flange 4840 and recess 4820 is rounded (chamfered), causing wall 4960 to flare outward as recess 4820 meets flange 4840 (see at least FIGS. 49-50 and 52-53 ).

[0224] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the collar portion 4840 includes an upper surface 5010 and a lower surface 5000 (see FIG. 50). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid portion 4850 (FIG. 48) connects to at least a portion of the upper surface 5010. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid portion 4850 covers the upper surface 5010. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess portion 4820 extends from the lower surface 5000.

[0225] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wall 4960 flares outward from a lower position to an upper position of the recess 4820 (see at least FIGS. 50 and 52-53). Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, the first longitudinal length 5040 of the recess 4820 is less than the second longitudinal length 5050 of the recess 4820 at the upper position of the recess 4820 (FIG. 50). Similarly, the first width 5200 of the recess 4820 at the lower position is less than the second width 5210 of the recess 4820 at the upper position (FIG. 52). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wall 4960 has a major surface having a trapezoidal shape with rounded corners 4980 of the lower portion of the trapezoid, as shown in at least FIGS. 50, 52, and 53.

[0226] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 4810 and / or the lid 4850 are made from thermoformed plastic that is heated during the manufacturing process and then molded or extruded. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 4810 and / or the lid 4850 are made from high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), or a combination thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 4810 and / or the lid 4850 are made from recyclable materials.

[0227] 50 , thickness 5030 of base 4810 is a uniform thickness across collar 4840 and recess 4820. In at least one exemplary embodiment, thickness 5030 is about 0.1 mm to 1 mm, about 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, about 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, or about 0.4 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, thickness 5030 of base 4810, or at least the thickness of floor 4950 and walls 4960 of recess 4820, is about 0.1 mm to 1 mm, about 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, about 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, or about 0.4 mm, and base 4810 is made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the thickness 5030 of the base 4810, or at least the thickness of the floor 4950 and walls 4960 of the recess 4820, affects the performance of the base 4810 from a manufacturing and resilience standpoint. The thickness 5030 should not be too thin to avoid holes from forming in the base 4810 during the thermoforming manufacturing process, and the thickness 5030 should not be too great to ensure that the base 4810 remains malleable and resilient during use of the base 4810. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 4810, or at least the walls 4960 of the base 4810, should be thin enough so that the recess 4820 can be crushed when the floor 4950 of the recess 4820 is pressed toward the lid 4850 to compress the consumer product 5400 through the lid 4850, or the weakened area 6800 of the lid 4850 (see description of FIG. 68 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the thickness of collar portion 4840 and the thickness of recessed portion 4820, or a portion of recessed portion 4820, are different from one another.

[0228] 54-55 are perspective and top view illustrations of a base 4810 housing a consumer product 5400 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIGS. 56-60 are perspective and orthogonal views of the consumer product 5400 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIGS. 61-62 are orthogonal views of the consumer product 5400 within the cavity 4830 of the base 4810 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 63 is a cross-sectional view (view LXIII-LXIII of FIG. 55) of a base according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 64 is a cross-sectional view (view LXIV-LXIV of FIG. 55) of a base according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 65 is a cross-sectional view (view LXV-LXV of FIG. 55) of a base according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0229] In at least one exemplary embodiment, cavity 4830 of insert 4800 houses consumer product 5400. In at least one exemplary embodiment, consumer product 5400 is a single consumer product. In at least one exemplary embodiment, consumer product 5400 is one or more consumer products, or components or accessories of a consumer product. In at least one exemplary embodiment, consumer product 5400 is an accessory to consumer product 1600 (FIG. 16). In at least one exemplary embodiment, consumer product 5400 is a mouthpiece or replacement mouthpiece for consumer product 1600 (FIG. 16).

[0230] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 4820 defines a cavity 4830 such that the cavity 4830 conforms to the exterior shape of the consumer product 5400. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 5400 includes a nose 5500 having a first width 5535 that flares at a tip 5505 of the nose 5500 (see, inter alia, FIGS. 55 and 57 ), such that the first width 5535 is wider than a second width 5540 near a mid-portion of the consumer product 5400. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tip 5505 of the nose 5500 has an oval major surface (see at least FIG. 60 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 5400 includes a rim 5410 at a rear portion 5510 of the consumer product 5400. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the frame 5410 includes a third width 5545 that is wider than the first width 5535 and the second width 5540 (see FIGS. 55 and 57). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the frame 5410 includes opposing cutouts 5900 (see FIG. 59). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the rear portion 5510 of the frame 5410 has a substantially rectangular major surface with rounded corners 5910 (see at least FIG. 59). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the rear portion 5510 of the frame 5410 has a surface area that is greater than the surface area of ​​the tip 5505 of the protrusion 5500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 5400 has a minimum width 5700 and a minimum thickness 5840 near the protrusion 5500 of the consumer product 5400 (see FIGS. 57 and 58).

[0231] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 5400 includes feet 5420 on the top and bottom of the consumer product 5400 (see FIGS. 54 and 56-58). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the feet 5420 are a pair of feet. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the feet 5420 include a single foot or two or more feet. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 5400 has an exterior shape having a first half (top) 5810 that is a mirror image of a second half (bottom) 5820, the first half 5810 and the second half 5820 being separated by an imaginary horizontal plane 5800 that bisects the consumer product 5400 (see FIGS. 58 and 59).

[0232] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wall 4960 of the recess 4820 receives and protects the consumer product 5400, thereby protecting the consumer product 5400 from movement or violent accidental shaking (see FIGS. 55 and 61-62). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first end wall 4900 contacts the protruding portion 5500 of the consumer product 5400 and the second end wall 4910 contacts the rear portion 5510 of the consumer product 5400, restricting movement of the consumer product 5400 in a first direction 5520 along the longitudinal length of the base 4810 (see FIG. 55). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first side wall 4920 and the second side wall 4930 contact the sides of the protrusion 5500 and the frame 5410 of the consumer product 5400, inhibiting movement of the consumer product 5400 in a second direction 5530 along the width of the longitudinal length of the base 4810 (see Figures 55 and 61-62).

[0233] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the frame 5410 of the consumer product 5400 is at least partially received by the floor 4950, the corners 4980, the first sidewall 4920, and the second sidewall 4930 to hold the frame 5410 in a "stable" position within the cavity 4830 (see FIG. 63, view LXIII-LXIII of FIG. 55). In at least one exemplary embodiment, a first gap 6300 (see FIGS. 63 and 67A) exists between the top of the frame 5410 and the top of the recess (where the lid 4850 will be located, as shown in FIG. 68). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first gap 6300 is reduced and / or minimal to further stabilize the frame 5410 within the cavity 4830. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the foot 5420 contacts the floor 4950, further supporting the consumer product 5400 within the cavity 4830 (see at least FIG. 64, view LXIV-LXIV of FIG. 55). In at least one exemplary embodiment, a second gap 6400 exists between the outer side of the consumer product 5400 and the side walls 4920 / 4930 (see FIGS. 55 and 64), which allows the consumer product 5400 to be more easily grasped at a mid-portion and removed from the cavity 4830. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a third gap 6500 exists between the protrusion 5500 of the consumer product 5400 and the side walls 4920 / 4930 (see FIG. 65, view LXV-LXV of FIG. 55), which allows the protrusion 5500 to shift slightly (in a second direction 5530, as shown in FIG. 55).

[0234] 66, 67A, and 67B illustrate perspective and orthogonal views of a base 4810 housing a consumer product 5400 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0235] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the protrusion 5500 of the consumer product 5400 is held in a horizontal (level) position where the imaginary horizontal plane 5800 is substantially parallel to the floor 4950 of the recess 4820, thereby causing the protrusion 5500 to appear to "float" within the cavity 4830. This is due at least to the feet 5420 contacting the floor 4950 and the first and second end walls 4900, 4910 contacting the protrusion 5500 and the frame 5410, thereby holding the frame 5410 in a "stable" position (as described above) (see at least FIG. 67A , which shows the protrusion "floating" as the consumer product 5400 is held in a stable horizontal position). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the third gap 6500 can be very small or non-existent to further support the protrusion 5500 and hold the consumer product 5400 in a stable horizontal position (as shown in FIG. 67A ).

[0236] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 4810 is made from a transparent or translucent material 6600. In this exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 5400 is viewable through the walls 4960 of the recess 4820. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the transparent material is polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET).

[0237] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 67B, the frame 5410 of the consumer product 5400 is not rigidly held (e.g., is at least large enough to allow the first gap 6300 of FIGS. 63 and 67A to shift as the frame 5410 moves toward or away from the first end wall 4900 and second end wall 4910), such that the bottom of the protrusion 5500 contacts the floor 4950 of the recess 4820.

[0238] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the length 6700 of the insert 4800 is in the range of about 90 mm to 110 mm, or about 95 mm to 100 mm, or about 97 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the depth 6710 of the recess 4820 is in the range of about 8 mm to 17 mm, or about 10 mm to 15 mm, or about 13 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the width 6850 of the insert 4800 is in the range of about 30 mm to 40 mm, or about 35 mm to 37.5 mm, or about 36 mm.

[0239] 68 and 69 are illustrations of perspective views of an insert 4800 housing a consumer product 5400 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0240] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid 4850 is adhered onto the upper surface 5010 (see FIG. 50) of the collar 4840 of the base 4810, thereby sealing the consumer product 5400 within the insert 4800 (see FIG. 69). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid 4850 protects the consumer product 5400 from dust, oxygen, moisture, and other environmental elements that may degrade the consumer product 5400 or consumable materials of the consumer product 5400.

[0241] 68 and 69 , the lid portion 4850 covers the top surface 5010. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid portion 4850 includes an area of ​​weakness 6800 that is at least partially over the cavity portion 4830. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the area of ​​weakness 6800 is delineated by a boundary line 6810. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the boundary line 6810 is a score line, embossed line, perforation, or other line of weakness that allows the lid portion 4850 to tear more easily along the boundary line 6810 and release the consumer product 5400 from the cavity 4830. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the area of ​​weakness 6800 is a thinned area of ​​the lid portion 4850 that is easier to open or puncture than the remainder of the lid portion 4850, regardless of whether the area of ​​weakness 6800 includes the boundary line 6810 that is also a line of weakness. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the area of ​​weakness 6800 and / or the border 6810 of the area of ​​weakness 6800 allow pressure to be applied to the consumer product 5400 through the lid 4850 to remove the consumer product 5400 from the cavity 4830. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid 4850 is made from foil, paper-foil (a paper composite connected to foil), paper, cardboard, a cardboard composite, industrial starch, wood pulp, biopolymer, other suitable packaging materials, or combinations thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid 4850 is made from paper-foil, and the thickness of the lid 4850, or at least the thickness of the area of ​​weakness 6800 of the lid 4850, is about 0.02 mm to 0.1 mm, about 0.03 mm to 0.9 mm, about 0.4 mm to 0.7 mm, or about 0.06 mm.

[0242] 70-72 illustrate perspective and orthogonal views of a base 4810 housing a consumer product 5400 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0243] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 4810 includes two recessed portions 4820. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recessed portions 4820 are in a "face-to-face configuration" 7000 (as shown in FIGS. 70-72) such that the protruding portions 5500 of each consumer product 5400 face each other. In at least one exemplary embodiment, in an alternative face-to-face configuration 7000, the rear portions 5510 of each consumer product 5400 face each other (not shown).

[0244] 73-75 illustrate perspective and orthogonal views of a base 4810 housing a consumer product 5400 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0245] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 4810 includes two recesses 4820. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recesses 4820 are in a "non-facing arrangement" 7300 (as shown in FIGS. 73-75) such that the protrusion 5500 of one consumer product 5400 faces the rear 5510 of the other consumer product 5400.

[0246] FIG. 76 is an illustration of a perspective view of inserts 4800 held in second tray 510 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0247] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the insert 4800 can be partially received within the second recess 2310 of the second tray 510, as shown in Figure 76. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 4820 of the insert 4800 can be received within the second recess 2310, and the lid portion 4850 and collar portion 4840 of the insert 4800 are at least partially supported by the first mating surface 2350 of the second tray 510, as shown in Figure 76.

[0248] Package band

[0249] 77A and 77B are illustrations of material 7705 for band 7700 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0250] In at least one exemplary embodiment, band 520 (as shown in at least FIGS. 5 and 45) is band 7700 ( FIG. 77A ), band 7800 ( FIG. 78A ), and / or band 7900 ( FIG. 79A ). That is, in at least one exemplary embodiment, band 7700 ( FIG. 77A ), band 7800 ( FIG. 78A ), and / or band 7900 ( FIG. 79A ) are used to at least partially surround outer container 100 to form package 4600 (see at least FIGS. 47 , 83 , 90 , and 97 ), as described in more detail herein.

[0251] In at least one exemplary embodiment, material 7705 is a single strip (woven) of material. In at least one exemplary embodiment, material 7705 includes wide panels 7710 connected to one another. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wide panels 7710 are connected to one another by narrow panels 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, each wide panel 7710 is separated from another by at least one of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wide panels 7710 have a first width 7735 that is wider than the second width 7745 of the narrow panels 7720.

[0252] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material 7705 includes two wide panels 7710. In at least one exemplary embodiment, one narrow panel 7720 of the material 7705 is between the wide panels 7710 and connects the wide panels 7710 to one another. In at least one exemplary embodiment, end panels 7715 are at opposite ends of the material 7705. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the end panels 7715 include one narrow panel 7720 and one wide panel 7710 (as shown in FIG. 77A ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the end panels 7715 include two wide panels 7710 or two narrow panels 7720. Other configurations of the wide panels 7710 and narrow panels 7720 are also contemplated.

[0253] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first fold line 7775 separates the wide panel 7710 from the narrow panel 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second fold line 7750 extends along some or all of the width of the narrow panel 7720, the second fold line 7750 being perpendicular to the longitudinal length 7725 of the material 7705. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first fold line 7775 and the second fold line 7750 may be creases, embossed lines, scored lines, or the like. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first fold line 7775 and the second fold line 7750 define (subdivide) the narrow panel 7720 into a center panel 7760 and a side panel 7755. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first fold line 7775 and the second fold line 7750 allow the band 7700 to be more easily wrapped around the outer container 100 to form a package 4600 sealed by the band 7700 (see at least FIG. 83). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the side panel 7755 forms a chamfered portion of the narrow panel 7720 that conforms the shape of the band 7700 to the outer container 100 (as will be described in more detail in connection with FIGS. 81, 83, and 87).

[0254] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material 7705 defines a tear strip 7730. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal length 7725 of the material 7705. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material 7705 defines one or more tear strips 7730. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 is defined by at least one of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 is defined by at least one central panel 7760 of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 is defined by at least one of the wide panels 7710.

[0255] In at least one exemplary embodiment, material 7705 includes indicia 7770 on at least one major surface of material 7705 (see FIG. 77B). In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicia 7770 is on a surface of material 7705, allowing indicia 7770 to be visible on at least opposing surfaces of the container when band 7700 is connected to the container. In at least one exemplary embodiment, band 7700 is connected to outer container 100, and indicia 7770 is visible from above flat major surfaces 140 of outer container 100, the flat major surfaces 140 facing each other on outer container 100 (see at least FIGS. 1 and 83-84). In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicia 7770 is "signature information." In at least one exemplary embodiment, signage information includes advertising, consumer product information and / or warnings, sales or consumer brochure information, ingredients, required state and federal government information, etc.

[0256] In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicia 7770 are on a first side (top) 7780 of material 7705, and a second side (bottom) 7785 of material 7705 is expected to be connected to outer container 100 and is therefore obscured (see FIGS. 77B and 83-84). In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicia 7770 are on both first side 7780 and second side 7785, thereby making material 7705 versatile and interchangeable when connecting to outer container 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicia 7770 on both first side 7780 and second side 7785 are the same type of indicia, or indicia 7770 are the same for each side 7780 / 7785 of material 7705. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the indicia 7770 on the first side 7780 and the second side 7785 are different types of indicia containing different information. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the indicia 7770 is on a major surface of the wide panel 7710 of the band 7700. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the indicia 7770 is on one or both of the wide panels 7710 and / or the indicia 7770 is on the narrow panel 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the indicia 7770 is on the narrow panel 7720 to provide instructions and / or call attention to the presence and / or use of the tear strip 7730. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a marking 7770 is present on each wide panel 7710, and the markings 7770 may be identical (duplicate) on each wide panel 7710, or the markings 7770 may be different on each wide panel 7710 to provide flexibility and to meet the requirements of the consumer product label (not shown) displaying and distributing the package 4600 (see at least FIG. 83).

[0257] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material 7705 is flexible, allowing the band 7700 to be formed into a shape that conforms to the outer surface of the outer container 100 (see at least FIG. 83). To this end, in at least one exemplary embodiment, when the band 7700 is connected to the outer container 100, the shape of the wide panel 7710 and / or the shape of the narrow panel 7720 conforms to the shape of the outer container 100 and / or the shape of the portion of the outer container 100 to which the wide panel 7710 and the narrow panel 7720 are connected. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wide panel 7710 conforms to the shape of the flat major surface 140 of the first portion 110 and / or the second portion 120 of the outer container 100 (see at least FIGS. 1 and 83). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wide panel 7710 has a rectangular shape with rounded corners 7740 (see FIGS. 77A and 77B). In another exemplary embodiment, the wide panel 7710 has a square shape. Other sizes of the wide panel 7710 are also contemplated.

[0258] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length 7726 and width 7735 of the wide panel 7710 are designed so that the wide panel 7710 matches the length and width of the flat major surface 140 of the first section 110 and / or second section 120 of the outer container 100 (see FIGS. 77B and 83). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the rounded corners 7740 match the shape of the rounded corners 145 of the outer container 100, thereby allowing the shape of the wide panel 7710 to better fit the shape of the flat major surface 140. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the narrow panel 7720 has a longitudinal length 7790 (see FIG. 77B) that allows the wide panel 7710 to be properly positioned on the flat major surface 140 of the outer container 100 when the band 7700 is connected to the outer container 100 (see at least FIG. 83).

[0259] In at least one exemplary embodiment, at least one of the end panels 7715 includes a tab 7765 at a leading end of the end panel 7715. In at least one exemplary embodiment, one of the second fold lines 7750 divides the tab 7765 from the end panel 7715. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tab 7765 is at a leading end of an end panel 7715 that is a narrow panel 7720. In other exemplary embodiments, the tab 7765 is at a leading end of an end panel 7715 that is a wide panel 7710 (not shown). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tab 7765 includes side edges 7795 that are angled and tapered toward each other as the side edges 7795 reach a leading edge 7796 of the tab 7765.

[0260] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length 7725 of the material 7705 is in the range of about 390 mm to 410 mm, or about 395 mm to 405 mm, or about 397 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the length 7726 of the wide panel 7710 is in the range of about 120 mm to about 140 mm, or about 125 mm to about 135 mm, or about 128 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the length 7790 of the narrow panel 7720 is in the range of about 55 mm to 70 mm, or about 60 mm to 65 mm, or about 63 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the width 7735 of the wide panel 7710 is in the range of about 75 mm to 90 mm, or about 80 mm to 85 mm, or about 82 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the width 7745 of the narrow panels 7720 is in the range of about 30 mm to 45 mm, or about 35 mm to 40 mm, or about 38 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the width 7735 of the wide panels 7710 is about twice the width 7745 of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, each wide panel 7710 has the same common width 7735, and each narrow panel 7720 has the same common width 7745. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the length 7728 of the tab 7765 is in the range of about 10 mm to 15 mm, or about 13 mm.

[0261] 78A and 78B are illustrations of material 7805 for band 7800 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0262] 78A / B is identical to material 7705 of Figures 77A / B, with the exceptions noted herein. In at least one exemplary embodiment, material 7805 includes end panel 7715, which is a wide panel 7810. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material 7805 includes a center panel 7840 that is a wide panel 7710. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the center panel 7840 is between the end panels 7715. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wide panel 7810 that is an end panel 7715 is a "truncated" panel. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wide panel 7810 has a longitudinal length 7820 that is shorter than the longitudinal length 7726 of the wide panel 7710 (see FIG. 78B). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material 7805 includes straight edges 7860. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the edges 7860 include rounded corners 7865. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the rounded corners 7740 of the wide panel 7710 have a larger radius of curvature than the corners 7865 at either end of the edge 7860.

[0263] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material 7805 includes a tear strip 7730 in each narrow panel 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear directions 7855 of the tear strips 7730 in each narrow panel 7720 are parallel and opposite to each other (as shown in FIG. 78A ). In at least other exemplary embodiments, the tear directions 7855 of the tear strips 7730 in each narrow panel 7720 are parallel to each other.

[0264] In at least one exemplary embodiment, material 7805 is in the form of a "sticker" having a temporary adhesive on a second side 7785 of material 7805 (i.e., the side of the material not visible in FIG. 78B ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, material 7805 is mounted on a backing 7850 ( FIG. 78B ) prior to use. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the temporary adhesive allows material 7805 to be easily removed from backing 7850. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the temporary adhesive is a "fugitive" adhesive, a releasable adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, or a combination thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the temporary adhesive is an elastomeric compound such as an acrylic and includes a "tacktifier" substance such as a rosin ester. In at least one exemplary embodiment, when material 7805 is connected to outer container 100 (as shown at least in FIGS. 90 and 91 ), material 7805 is peeled from backing 7850 and connected to outer container 100 using a temporary adhesive or a combination of temporary and additional adhesives (also referred to herein as “adhesive”). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the additional adhesive has a higher adhesive strength compared to the temporary adhesive. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the additional adhesive includes a hot melt adhesive, a water-based adhesive, an epoxy, a two-part adhesive, a polyurethane laminating adhesive, or a combination thereof.

[0265] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length 7825 of the material 7805 is within a range of about 340 mm to 360 mm, or about 345 mm to 355 mm, or about 349 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length 7820 of the end panel 7715 (wide panel 7810) of the material 7805 is within a range of about 40 mm to 55 mm, or about 45 mm to 50 mm, or about 47 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length 7820 of the end panel 7715 is one-half or less than one-half the longitudinal length 7726 of the wide panel 7710, which is the central panel 7840 of the material 7805. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length 7820 of the end panel 7715 is one-third (33%) of the longitudinal length 7726 of the wide panel 7726, which is the central panel 7840 of the material 7805.

[0266] 79A and 79B are illustrations of material 7905 for band 7900 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0267] 79A / B is identical to the material 7705 of FIGS. 77A / B, with the exceptions described herein. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material 7905 includes end panels 7715 that include one narrow panel 7720 and one wide panel 7710. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the end panel 7715, which is the wide panel 7710, includes a tab 7915 at the leading end of the wide panel 7710. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tab 7915 includes side edges 7920 that are angled and tapered toward each other as the side edges 7920 reach a leading edge 7945 of the tab 7915.

[0268] In at least one embodiment, the material 7905 defines a tear strip 7930. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7930 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal length 7925 of the material 7905. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material 7905 defines one or more tear strips 7930. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7930 is defined by at least one of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7930 is defined by at least one of the wide panels 7710. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear direction 7955 of the tear strip 7930 is bidirectional, such that the tear strip 7930 can be pulled open starting on either side of the tear strip 7930.

[0269] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the end panel 7715, which is the narrow panel 7720, defines alignment notches on either side of the narrow panel 7720. As shown in FIG. 79B , the alignment notches 7910 are aligned with one another along a line 7950 extending perpendicular to the longitudinal length 7925 of the blank 7905. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the alignment notches 7910 are used in combination with the tear strip 7930 to position the band 7900 on the package 4600 (see at least FIGS. 97-98 and 101 ). That is, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the alignment notch 7910 and the tear strip 7930 are aligned along a portion of the seam 4700 of the outer container 100 (see at least FIGS. 97-98 and 101 ), ensuring that the band 7900 is properly positioned on the outer container 100.

[0270] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the length 7935 of the tab 7915 is in the range of about 3 mm to 5 mm, or about 4 mm.

[0271] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material 7705 / 7805 / 7905 is made from cardboard, paper, paperboard, other suitable packaging material, or a combination thereof. In other exemplary embodiments, the material 7705 / 7805 / 7905 is made from plastic, one or more polymer layers, foil, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), or other layers or combinations of layers of materials.

[0272] 80A and 80B are illustrations of tear strips 7730 / 7930 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0273] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figures 77A-78B and 80A, the tear strip 7730 extends across the width of a portion of the material 7705 / 7805. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 extends across the width 7745 of one narrow panel 7720 of the material 7705 / 7805 from a first side edge 8050 to a second side edge 8060 of the portion of the material 7705 / 7805 (see Figures 77A-78B and 80A). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 extends across the width of one wide panel 7710 of the material 7705 / 7805 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal length 7725 / 7825 of the material 7705 / 7805. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 has a leading edge 8035 such that the tear strip 7730 is grasped and initially torn along the tear direction 7855 to completely open the tear strip 7730 .

[0274] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 includes slits 8000 aligned on a first side 8015 and a second side 8025 of the tear strip 7730. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the slits 8000 are "V" shaped. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the slits 8000 include a first portion 8005 and a second portion 8010, wherein the first portion 8005 of each slit 8000 is aligned with one another on the first side 8015 and the second side 8025 of the tear strip 7730, and the second portion 8010 extends toward a centerline 8055 of the tear strip 7730. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first portion 8005 of each slit 8000 extends from an apex 8070 of the slit 8000 in a direction parallel to and in the same direction as the opening direction 7855 of the tear strip 7730. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a gap 8020 exists between the first portions 8005 of each slit 8000. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the slits 8000 are evenly spaced such that the gaps 8020 are uniform between each slit 8000. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a gap 8045 may exist between the first side edge 8050 of the material 7705 / 7805 and the end 8075 of the first portion 8005 of the slit 8000. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the gap 8045 is absent in some of the material 7705 / 7805 (see, for example, material 7705 in FIGS. 77A / B ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, for a material that is a "sticker" embodiment (see, e.g., material 7805 in Figures 78A / B), the gap 8045 may not be present, and therefore the end 8075 of the slit 8000 in the tear strip 7730 extends to the first side edge 8050 (see, e.g., material 7705 in Figures 77A / B).

[0275] In at least one exemplary embodiment, notches 8030 are defined by second side edges 8060 of material 7705 / 7805 on either side of leading end 8035 of tear strip 7730 to assist in initiating tearing of tear strip 7730.

[0276] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7930 of the material 7905 ( FIGS. 79A / B ) is a two-way tear strip 7930 that can be torn in a tear direction 7955 starting from a leading end 8035 of either the first side edge 8050 or the second side edge 8060 of a portion of the material 7905 (see FIGS. 79A / B and 80B ). In this embodiment, the tear strip 7930 is defined by aligned slits 8090 on the first side 8015 and the second side 8025 of the tear strip 7930. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a gap 8085 exists between the slits 8090 and the first side edge 8050 and / or the second side edge 8060 of the tear strip 7930. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a notch 8080 is defined by a first side edge 8050 and a second side edge 8060 of the material 7705 / 7805 on either side of the tear strip 7930 to assist in initiating tearing of the tear strip 7930.

[0277] 81-82 illustrate perspective views of a band 7700 arranged to be connected to a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figures 83-87 illustrate perspective and side views of a band 7700 on an outer container 100 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0278] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material 7705 is configured to be folded such that the tab 7765 reaches around and connects to a second side 7785 of the material 7705, attaching the band 7700 around the package (see at least FIGS. 83 and 84). In other exemplary embodiments, the tab 7765 connects to a first side 7780 of the material 7705 when the material 7705 is formed into the band 7700. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first side 7780 and the second side 7785 of the band 7700 are interchangeable such that when the band 7700 is wrapped around the outer container 100 to create the package 4600 (FIGS. 83 and 84), the first side 7780 contacts the outer container 100, rather than the second side 7785 contacting the outer container 100.

[0279] In at least one exemplary embodiment, material 7705 is formed into band 7700 by connecting tab 7765 to a portion of wide panel 7710 using additional adhesive (see at least FIGS. 81 and 87). In at least one exemplary embodiment, side panel 7755 forms a chamfered portion of narrow panel 7720 when band 7700 is connected to outer container 100, allowing narrow panel 7720 to wrap around rounded side edge 210 of outer container 100 (see at least FIGS. 83, 84, and 87). In at least one exemplary embodiment, band 7700 is connected to outer container 100 such that narrow panel 7720 covers the opening of outer container 100, ensuring that outer container 100 cannot be inadvertently opened. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the narrow panel 7720 covers the seam 4700 of the outer container 100 when the band 7700 is connected to the outer container 100, rendering the package 4600 tamper-resistant (see FIGS. 83-87). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 is aligned with the seam 4700 of the outer container 100 (see, in particular, FIGS. 83 and 87). In at least one exemplary embodiment, by covering and aligning a portion of the seam 4700, the seam 4700 allows an object or fingernail to more easily grasp the leading end 8035 of the tear strip 7730 and initiate a tear in the tear strip 7730.

[0280] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 7700 extends along the longitudinal length of the outer container 100 such that the narrow panel 7720 spans the second side wall 620 of the outer container 100, which is shorter than the first side wall 610 of the outer container 100 (see FIGS. 84 and 85). In other exemplary embodiments, the band 7700 extends along the width of the outer container 100 such that the narrow panel 7720 spans the first side wall 610 of the outer container 100, which is longer than the second side wall 620 (see at least FIG. 47). In other exemplary embodiments, the first side wall 610 and the second side wall 620 are the same length, and the size of the band 7700 matches the size of the outer container 100.

[0281] 88-89 illustrate perspective views of a band 7800 arranged to connect to a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figures 90-94 illustrate perspective and side views of a band 7800 on an outer container 100 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0282] In at least one exemplary embodiment, band 7800 is connected to outer container 100 in a manner similar to band 7700, with the following exceptions described herein. In at least one exemplary embodiment, when band 7800 is connected to outer container 100, gaps 9100 exist between edges 7860 of end panels 7715 of band 7800 (see at least FIG. 91 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, gaps 9100 allow exposed portions 9105 of outer container 100 to be visible when band 7800 is attached to outer container 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicia 7770 and / or consumer information can be included on exposed portions 9105.

[0283] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second side 7785 of the band 7800 is connected to the outer container 100 using temporary adhesive and / or additional adhesive. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 7800 hugs the outer surface of the outer container 100, and the band 7800 hugs the rounded side edges 210 of the outer container 100 (see at least FIG. 94 ).

[0284] 95-96 illustrate perspective views of a band 7900 arranged to connect to a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figures 97-101 illustrate perspective and side views of a band 7900 on an outer container 100 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0285] In at least one exemplary embodiment, band 7900 is connected to outer container 100 in a manner similar to band 7700, with the following exceptions described herein. In at least one exemplary embodiment, tab 7765 is connected to second side 7785 of material 7905 to form band 7900 (see at least FIGS. 95 and 101 ). In at least other exemplary embodiments, tab 7765 is connected to first side 7785 of material 7905 to form band 7900. In at least one exemplary embodiment, tear strip 7930 is aligned with seam 4700 of outer container 100, and wide panel 7710 is positioned to cover at least a portion of planar major surface 140 of outer container 100 (see at least FIGS. 97-98 and 101 ).

[0286] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 7900 is not adhesively connected to the outer container 100. In at least other exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the second side 7785 of the band 7900 is connected to the outer container 100 using temporary adhesive and / or additional adhesive. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first side 7780 and the second side 7785 of the band 7900 are interchangeable such that the first side 7880 of the band 7900 can be connected to the outer container 100 once the band 7900 is attached to the outer container 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 7900 hugs the outer surface of the outer container 100, and the band 7900 hugs the rounded side edges 210 of the outer container 100 (see at least FIG. 101 ).

[0287] While exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations are possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications that would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A material, Two or more wide panels; at least two narrow panels attached to the two or more wide panels, each of the two or more wide panels being separated from one another by at least one of the at least two narrow panels; a first narrow panel of the at least two narrow panels defining a first tear strip, the first tear strip having a first longitudinal length spanning a first width of the first narrow panel, the first longitudinal length being perpendicular to a second longitudinal length of the material.

2. The material according to claim 1, The material is configured to be at least partially wrapped around an outer container, and a first shape of the two or more wide panels conforms to a second shape of two major surfaces on the outer container.

3. The material according to claim 2, The two or more wide panels are configured to directly contact and at least partially cover the two major surfaces, the two major surfaces facing each other on the outer container.

4. The material according to claim 2, The at least two narrow panels are configured to at least partially cover an opening in the outer container and provide tamper resistance.

5. The material according to claim 2, The first tear strip is configured to align with and at least partially cover the opening of the outer container, providing tamper resistance.

6. The material according to claim 1, The material, wherein an exterior surface of the two or more wide panels includes indicia, the indicia including consumer information.

7. The material according to claim 1, A material, wherein a first exterior surface of the two or more wide panels and a second exterior surface of the at least two narrow panels include indicia, the indicia including consumer information.

8. The material according to claim 1, Each of the two or more wide panels has a first major surface that is substantially rectangular in shape, the first major surface having first rounded corners.

9. The material according to claim 1, Each of the two or more wider panels has a second width that is approximately twice as wide as the first width.

10. The material according to claim 9, The at least two narrow panels include a second narrow panel, and the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel each have a width equal to the first width.

11. The material according to claim 1, The material is a woven fabric of a single material.

12. The material according to claim 1, The material is attached to a backing via at least one adhesive, and the material is configured to be peeled from the backing before being connected to an outer container.

13. The material according to claim 1, A material, wherein an end panel at a leading end of the material includes the first narrow panel and a first wide panel of the two or more wide panels.

14. The material according to claim 1, A material wherein an end panel at a leading end of the material includes a second narrow panel of the at least two narrow panels and a first wide panel of the two or more wide panels.

15. The material according to claim 14, A tab extends from a distal end of the second narrow panel, the tab configured to be adhesively connected to the first wide panel when the material is wrapped around an outer container.

16. The material according to claim 14, The material, wherein the first narrow panel is between the first wide panel and a second wide panel, the second wide panel is one of the two or more wide panels, and the first wide panel and the second wide panel are equal-sized panels.

17. The material according to claim 16, side edges of the second narrow panel define a pair of alignment notches, the pair of alignment notches being aligned along a third width of the second narrow panel, the third width being perpendicular to the second longitudinal length.

18. The material according to claim 1, A material, wherein an end panel at a leading end of the material includes a first wide panel and a second wide panel of the two or more wide panels.

19. The material according to claim 18, The material, wherein the first narrow panel is between the first wide panel and a third wide panel, a second narrow panel of the at least two narrow panels is between the second wide panel and the third wide panel, and the third wide panel is one of the two or more wide panels.

20. The material according to claim 19, the two or more wide panels each have a second width, the first wide panel and the second wide panel each have a third longitudinal length, the third longitudinal length being less than a fourth longitudinal length of the third wide panel.

21. The material according to claim 20, The first wide panel and the second wide panel define straight edges at their most distal ends, the straight edges being perpendicular to the second longitudinal length, and the third wide panel has a first major surface that is substantially rectangular in shape.

22. The material according to claim 21, the first major surface has a first rounded corner having a first radius of curvature, and the first wide panel and the second wide panel define second rounded corners at ends of the straight edges having a second radius of curvature, the second radius of curvature being smaller than the first radius of curvature.

23. The material according to claim 22, the first wide panel and the second wide panel each define a pair of opposing rounded corners facing the third wide panel, the pair of opposing rounded corners having a third radius of curvature equal to the first radius of curvature.

24. The material according to claim 20, The second narrow panel defines a second tear strip.

25. The material according to claim 24, The material, wherein the first tear strip is configured to tear in a first direction and the second tear strip is configured to tear in a second direction, the first direction being parallel to and opposite the second direction.

26. The material according to claim 1, The material, wherein the first tear strip is at least partially defined by a pair of parallel rows of slits, and the tear direction of the first tear strip is unidirectional or bidirectional.

27. A package, An outer container; 10. A package comprising: the material of claim 1 at least partially wrapped around the outer container.

28. 28. The package of claim 27, A package wherein a first shape of the two or more wide panels conforms to at least a portion of a second shape of two major surfaces of the outer container.

29. 28. The package of claim 27, The package, wherein each of the two or more wide panels is configured to directly contact at least a portion of two opposing major surfaces on the outer container.

30. 30. The package of claim 29, Each of the two or more wide panels is adhesively connected to at least a portion of two opposing major surfaces of the outer container.

31. 29. The package of claim 28, The two opposing major surfaces are of equal size and lie in planes that are parallel to one another.

32. 29. The package of claim 28, The outer container includes a first portion and a second portion joined at a seam, and the first tear strip is aligned with and at least partially covers a portion of the seam, providing tamper resistance to the package.

33. 29. The package of claim 28, The package, wherein the outer container includes a first portion and a second portion joined at a seam that surrounds the outer container, the at least two narrow panels include a second narrow panel, and the first narrow panel and the second narrow panel each straddle the seam.

34. 34. The package of claim 33, the second narrow panel defines a second tear strip, the first tear strip and the second tear strip being aligned with and at least partially covering the seam to provide tamper resistance to the package.

35. 34. The package of claim 33, a side edge of the second narrow panel defining a pair of alignment notches, the first tear strip and the pair of alignment notches being aligned with and at least partially covering the seam to provide tamper resistance to the package.

36. 34. The package of claim 33, The material surrounds the outer container.

37. 29. The package of claim 28, At least a portion of the two or more wide panels are adhesively connected to the outer container, and the material does not completely surround the outer container.

38. 38. The package of claim 37, The material includes two end panels at a distal end of the material, each of the two or more wide panels being one of the two or more wide panels, and a gap existing between the edges of the two end panels exposes a portion of the outer container that is visible when the material is connected to the outer container.

39. 34. The package of claim 33, the outer container includes rounded side edges along first and second end walls of the first and second sections, and the first and second narrow panels include fold lines that subdivide portions of the first and second narrow panels into chamfered sections, the chamfered sections spanning and directly contacting at least a portion of the rounded side edges.

Images