Packaging containing trays for consumer products

Abstract

The package includes an outer container including a first section and a second section, and a first tray within the outer container, the first tray defining a ridge along a periphery of the first tray, the ridge being retained between a first periphery of the first section and a second periphery of the second section when the outer container is in a closed position and the first tray is retained within the outer container.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The exemplary embodiments relate generally to packages including one or more trays for consumer products.

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

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

[0004] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the package includes an outer container including a first section and a second section and a first tray within the outer container, the first tray defining a ridge along a periphery of the first tray, the ridge being retained between a first periphery of the first section and a second periphery of the second section when the outer container is in a closed position and the first tray is retained within the outer container.

[0005] In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the outer container is in a closed position and the first tray is retained within the outer container, the first outer surface of the ridge is visible from outside the package.

[0006] In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the outer container is in a closed position and the first tray is held within the outer container, the first outer surface of the ridge is flush with the second outer surfaces of the first section and the second section.

[0007] In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the outer container is in a closed position and the first tray is retained within the outer container, the first outer surface of the ridge forms part of the overall outer surface of the package.

[0008] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the ridge extends horizontally away from the first sidewall of the first tray.

[0009] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first section and the second section each have a second sidewall extending from the end wall, and the first section and second section are identical to one another.

[0010] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first periphery and the second periphery are distal ends of the second side wall that are furthest from the end walls of the first section and the second section, respectively.

[0011] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first inner surface of the second side wall slopes outwardly from the end wall toward the first and second peripheries of the first and second sections, respectively.

[0012] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second sidewalls of each of the first section and the second section include a first pair of opposing sidewalls and a second pair of opposing sidewalls.

[0013] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second sidewall has a horizontal cross-section having a substantially rectangular shape.

[0014] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first section and the second section each define first rounded interior and exterior angles between the end wall and the second side wall, and the first section and the second section each define second rounded interior and exterior angles between each of the first pair of opposing side walls and each of the second pair of opposing side walls.

[0015] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray defines a first consumer product recess.

[0016] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray is selectively removable from the outer container.

[0017] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the package further includes a second tray within the outer container, the first lower portion of the first tray being at least partially connected to the first upper portion of the second tray.

[0018] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray and the second tray are selectively removable from the outer container.

[0019] In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the second tray is held within the outer container, the underside of the second tray contacts the end wall of the first section of the outer container.

[0020] In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the second section of the outer container is removed from the package and the first tray and second tray are retained within the first section, the first top surface of the first tray forms at least a portion of the second top surface of the package.

[0021] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second upper portion of the ridge forms part of the second upper surface.

[0022] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray includes a first sidewall extending vertically downward from the first upper surface, and the first lower portion includes at least a portion of a distal end of the first sidewall.

[0023] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray includes a first sidewall extending vertically downward from a first top surface, the first sidewall including a first lower corner that is rounded where the first sidewall is joined, and the first lower portion includes a distal end of the first lower corner of the first sidewall.

[0024] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first upper portion of the second tray defines a rounded first outer corner, and the first lower corner is configured to grip the first outer corner to couple the first tray to the second tray.

[0025] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first exterior surface of the first sidewall and the second exterior surface of the second tray are conformed to the shape of the first interior surface of the first section.

[0026] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second outer surface of the second tray, the third top surface of the second tray, and the second sidewall of the first section define a valley, and the first sidewall of the first tray fits into the valley when the first tray and the second tray are connected together and held in the first section.

[0027] In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the second tray is retained in the first section, a valley is defined along the entire periphery of the second tray.

[0028] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray defines at least one first recess for at least one first consumer product, and the second tray defines at least one second recess for at least one second consumer product.

[0029] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the package further includes at least one first consumer product contained within the at least one first recess and at least one second consumer product contained within the at least one second recess.

[0030] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the at least one first consumer product is a heat-non-flameable device and the at least one second consumer product includes an accessory for the heat-non-flameable device.

[0031] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the package further includes consumer information material, wherein the third top surface of the second tray defines a first fitting surface, and the consumer information material is retained within the first fitting surface.

[0032] In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the second section is removed from the package and the first tray is retained within the first section, at least one surface of the at least one first consumer product is visible within the at least one first recess.

[0033] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the package further includes a band that surrounds at least a portion of the outer container, the band including at least one wide panel that conforms to and directly contacts at least one major surface of the first section, the second section, or both the first and second sections.

[0034] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band defines at least one tear strip running across the width of a portion of the band, the at least one tear strip being aligned with and running in front of a portion of the ridge. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] 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 to limit 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.

[0036] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an outer container for a package according to at least one example embodiment.

[0037] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of an outer container according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0038] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a front view of an outer container according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0039] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a top view of an outer container in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0040] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an illustration of an exploded view of elements of a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0041] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a first section of an outer container of a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0042] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a side view of a first section of an outer container according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0043] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a first section of the outer container (view VIII-VIII of FIG. 6) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0044] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a first tray of a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0045] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an illustration of another perspective view of a first tray in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0046] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an illustration of a bottom view of a first tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0047] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of a first tray in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0048] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an illustration of another bottom perspective view of a first tray in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0049] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an illustration of a front view of a first tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0050] [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an illustration of a side view of a first tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0051] [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an illustration of a perspective view of a first tray for holding consumer products in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0052] [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is an illustration of a top view of a first tray holding consumer products in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0053] [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a first tray (View XVIII-XVIII of FIG. 17) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0054] [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a first tray (view XVIII-XVIII of FIG. 17) for holding consumer products, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0055] [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the first tray (FIG. XIX-XIX of FIG. 17) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0056] [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a first tray (view XIX-XIX of FIG. 17) for holding consumer products, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0057] [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating a first tray and a second tray held in a first section in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0058] [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is an illustration of a perspective view of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0059] [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is an illustration of a perspective view of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0060] [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is an illustration of a top view of a second tray in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0061] [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is an illustration of a bottom view of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0062] [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a bottom perspective view of a second tray, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0063] [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is an illustration of another bottom perspective view of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0064] [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is an illustration of a side view of a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0065] [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is an illustration of another side view of the second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0066] [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XXXI-XXXI of FIG. 25) of a second tray in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0067] [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is an illustration of another cross-sectional view of the second tray (View XXXI-XXXI of FIG. 25), with the second tray holding consumer information material, in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0068] [Figure 33] FIG. 33 is an illustration of another cross-sectional view (view XXXIII-XXXIII of FIG. 25) of the second tray, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0069] [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is an illustration of a consumer product and a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0070] [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is an illustration of consumer products in a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0071] [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is an illustration of consumer product information held on a second tray in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0072] [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is an illustration of a first tray connected to a second tray in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0073] [Figure 38] FIG. 38 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.

[0074] [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is an illustration of a first tray connected to a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0075] [Figure 40] FIG. 40 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.

[0076] [Figure 41] FIG. 41 is an illustration of 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.

[0077] [Figure 42] FIG. 42 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XLII-XLII of FIG. 1) of an outer container including a first tray and a second tray according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0078] [Figure 43] FIG. 43 is an illustration of another cross-sectional view (View XLIII-XLIII of FIG. 1) of an outer container including a first tray and a second tray, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0079] [Figure 44] FIG. 44 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an outer container including a first tray and no second tray (View XLII-XLII of FIG. 1), according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0080] [Figure 45]FIG. 45 is an illustration of another cross-sectional view (View XLIII-XLIII of FIG. 1) of an outer container including a first tray and no second tray, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0081] [Figure 46] FIG. 46 is an illustration of an exploded view of a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0082] [Figure 47] FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0083] [Figure 48] FIG. 48 is an illustration of a top perspective view of an insert in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0084] [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is a top view of the base of an insert, in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0085] [Figure 50] FIG. 50 is a side view of the base of an insert, in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0086] [Figure 51] FIG. 51 is an illustration of a bottom view of the base of an insert in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0087] [Figure 52] FIG. 52 is an illustration of a rear view of a base insert in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0088] [Figure 53] FIG. 53 is an illustration of a front view of a base insert in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0089] [Figure 54]FIG. 54 is a top perspective view of a base including a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0090] [Figure 55] FIG. 55 is an illustration of a top view of a base including a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0091] [Figure 56] FIG. 56 is a top front perspective view of a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0092] [Figure 57] FIG. 57 is a top view of a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0093] [Figure 58] FIG. 58 is a side view of a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0094] [Figure 59] FIG. 59 is a rear view of a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0095] [Figure 60] FIG. 60 is a front view of a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0096] [Figure 61] FIG. 61 is a rear view of a consumer product within a base in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0097] [Figure 62] FIG. 62 is a front view of a consumer product within a base in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0098] [Figure 63]FIG. 63 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view LXIII-LXIII of FIG. 55) in accordance with at least one example embodiment.

[0099] [Figure 64] FIG. 64 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view LXIV-LXIV of FIG. 55) in accordance with at least one example embodiment.

[0100] [Figure 65] FIG. 65 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view LXV-LXV of FIG. 55) in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0101] [Figure 66] FIG. 66 is a top perspective view of a base including a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0102] [Figure 67A] FIG. 67A is a side view of a base including a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0103] [Figure 67B] FIG. 67B is an illustration of another side view of a base including a consumer product according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0104] [Figure 68] FIG. 68 is a top perspective view of an insert containing a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0105] [Figure 69] FIG. 69 is an illustration of a bottom perspective view of an insert containing a consumer product according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0106] [Figure 70] FIG. 70 is a perspective view of a base including a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0107] [Figure 71] FIG. 71 is a top view of a base including a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0108] [Figure 72] FIG. 72 is a side view of a base including a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0109] [Figure 73] FIG. 73 is a perspective view of a base including a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0110] [Figure 74] FIG. 74 is a top view of a base including a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0111] [Figure 75] FIG. 75 is a side view of a base including a consumer product in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0112] [Figure 76] FIG. 76 is a perspective view of inserts held in a second tray, in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0113] [Figure 77A] FIG. 77A is an illustration of a blank for a band, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0114] [Figure 77B] FIG. 77B is an illustration of a band blank according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0115] [Figure 78A] FIG. 78A is an illustration of a band blank according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0116] [Figure 78B]FIG. 78B is an illustration of a band blank according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0117] [Figure 79A] FIG. 79A is an illustration of a blank for a band, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0118] [Figure 79B] FIG. 79B is an illustration of a band blank according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0119] [Figure 80A] FIG. 80A is an illustration of a tear strip for a band, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0120] [Figure 80B] FIG. 80B is an illustration of a tear strip for a band, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0121] [Figure 81] FIG. 81 is a perspective view of a band positioned to be connected to a package, in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0122] [Figure 82] FIG. 82 is a perspective view of a band positioned to be connected to a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0123] [Figure 83] FIG. 83 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0124] [Figure 84] FIG. 84 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0125] [Figure 85]FIG. 85 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0126] [Figure 86] FIG. 86 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0127] [Figure 87] FIG. 87 is a side view of a band on a package according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0128] [Figure 88] FIG. 88 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of a band positioned to be connected to a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0129] [Figure 89] FIG. 89 is a perspective view of a band positioned to be connected to a package, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0130] [Figure 90] FIG. 90 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0131] [Figure 91] FIG. 91 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0132] [Figure 92] FIG. 92 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0133] [Figure 93] FIG. 93 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0134] [Figure 94] FIG. 94 is a side view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0135] [Figure 95] FIG. 95 is a perspective view of a band arranged to be connected to a package, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0136] [Figure 96] FIG. 96 is a perspective view of a band positioned to be connected to a package, in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0137] [Figure 97] FIG. 97 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0138] [Figure 98] FIG. 98 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0139] [Figure 99] FIG. 99 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0140] [Figure 100] FIG. 100 is a perspective view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0141] [Figure 101] FIG. 101 is a side view of a band on a package in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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 cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives thereof. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0144] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected," "coupled," or "overlapping" another element or layer, it should be understood that it may be directly connected to, coupled to, or overlaying the other element or layer, or that intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly," "directly connected," or "directly coupled" to another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. 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.

[0145] It should be understood that terms such as first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layers, and / or sections, but these elements, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be 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.

[0146] For convenience of description, spatially relative terms (e.g., "below," "below," "down," "above," "above," 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 in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were turned over, 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 in other orientations (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein would be interpreted accordingly.

[0147] 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 "comprises," "comprising," and / or "comprising" 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.

[0148] When the terms "about" and "substantially" are used herein 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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 are to be expected as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Thus, example embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

[0151] package

[0152] Figure 1 is a perspective view of outer container 100, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 is a side view of outer container 100, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 is a front view of outer container 100, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 is a top view illustration of outer container 100, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0153] 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.

[0154] In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the outer container 100 is in the "closed" configuration and includes a first tray 500 (see FIGS. 1-3), a ridge 130 of the first tray 500 (see at least FIG. 9) extends between the first section 110 and the second section 120. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the ridge 130 serves to form a portion of the outer surface 150 of the package 4600 that includes the outer container 100 (see FIG. 47), and thus, when the outer container 100 is in the "closed" configuration and includes the first tray 500, the outer surface 200 of the ridge 130 is substantially visible. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the outer surface 200 of the ridge 130 is flush with the outer 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).

[0155] 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 on 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 ).

[0156] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the main elements 550 of the package 4600 (see FIG. 47) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0157] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the main elements 550 include 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 the "closed" configuration, the outer container 100 can include 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 surrounds at least a portion of the midsection of outer container 100 (as shown at least in FIG. 47).

[0158] 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.

[0159] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a perspective view of first section 110, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 7 is an illustration of a side view of first section 110, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 8 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (VIII-VIII in FIG. 6) of first section 110, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. In one embodiment, first section 110 and second section 120 are identical. Thus, the following description of first section 110 applies to second section 120 as well.

[0160] 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 than the second side wall 620 (as shown in FIG. 6), thereby causing the outer container 100 to have a rectangular shape when viewed from above (see FIG. 4). In another exemplary embodiment, the first side wall 610 and the second side wall 620 have the same longitudinal length, thereby causing the outer container 100 to have a square shape when viewed from above (not shown). Other shapes for the outer container 100 are also contemplated.

[0161] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first section 110 includes rounded corners 630 where the end wall 600 meets the first and second side walls 610, 620. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first and second side walls 610, 620 have peripheral edges 640 that are the distal-most ends of the first and second side walls 610, 620. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the peripheral edges 640 of the first and second sections 110, 120 grip the ridges 130 of the first tray 500 to accommodate the first tray 500 when the outer container 100 is in the closed position (see at least FIGS. 1 and 42-43).

[0162] 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 such that first section 110 has 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.

[0163] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second side wall 620 (and similarly the first side wall 610) flares slightly outward such that a first distance 820 across the interior longitudinal length of the first section 110 is smaller than a second distance 830 across the interior longitudinal length of the first section 110.

[0164] 9-10 are illustrations of perspective views of a first tray 500 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the first tray 500.

[0165] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray 500 includes a top wall 900. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first tray 500 includes a sidewall 917 that surrounds the periphery of the top of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a ridge 130 divides the sidewall 917 into an upper sidewall 920 and a lower sidewall 930. In at least one exemplary embodiment, an upper ledge 915 and a lower ledge 925 are the upper and lower surfaces defined by the ridge 130. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the top wall 900 defines rounded edges 945 where the sidewall 917 meets the upper (top) surface 992 of the first tray 500 along the periphery of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sidewall 917 defines four rounded corners 905 of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a lower portion 940 of the rounded corner 905, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the lower sidewall 930 defines lugs 935. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lugs 935 are substantially equally spaced along the lower sidewall 930 of the first tray 500, where the lugs are oriented vertically along the lower sidewall 930 (see at least FIGS. 12 and 13). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lugs 935 are defined by the lower sidewall 930 to include at least one lug on each of the four sides of the first tray 500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lugs 935 are positioned on the lower sidewall 930 to space the lower sidewall 930 from the first sidewall 610 and the second sidewall 620 ( FIG. 6 ) of the first section 110 when the first tray 500 is held in the first section 110, allowing the first tray 500 to be more easily removed from the first section 110 of the outer container 100 and to ensure that moisture does not otherwise collect between the lower sidewall 930 and the first sidewall 610 or the second sidewall 620.

[0166] In at least one embodiment, the top wall 900 defines a recess 970. In at least one embodiment, the recess 970 is a partial "recess" in the consumer product 1600 (see at least FIG. 16 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 970 defines a cavity for holding the consumer product 1600. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 970 includes a floor 960. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the floor 960 defines a ridge 950. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the floor 960 defines an opening 955. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the opening 955 can be used to assist in separating the first tray 500 from the second tray 510 or separating the first tray 500 from the first section 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 section 110), and the opening 955 can be grasped, for example, by fingers or a simple tool.

[0167] In at least one exemplary embodiment, recess 970 includes substantially vertical sidewalls 910. In at least one exemplary embodiment, sidewalls 910 include rounded corners 965. In at least one exemplary embodiment, recess 970 includes three recesses 990 including a first half bowl 975, a second half bowl 980, and a shelf 982. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first half bowl 975 and second half bowl 980 have semi-elliptical footprints (see at least FIGS. 9-11 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, each of recesses 990 includes sloping sidewalls 985 that flare outward from the floor of recess 990 to an upper surface 992 of top wall 900. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 970 includes rounded edges 995 along the upper periphery of the recess 970 where the sidewalls 910 / 985 meet the upper surface 992 of the top 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 and at the transition between the ridge 950 and the floor 960. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the shelf 982 includes rounded corners 998 to reduce "pinch points" for the consumer products 1600, making the consumer products 1600 easier to grasp and handle when removing the consumer products 1600 from the first tray 500 and / or when returning the consumer products 1600 to the first tray 500 (see FIGS. 9-10 and 16 ).

[0168] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first half bowl 975 includes a pair of lugs 996 on the upper side edges of the first half bowl 975 (the ends of the first half bowl 975 closest to the shelf 982). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lugs 996 extend slightly from the sloped sidewalls 985 of the first half bowl 975 and the second half bowl 980 (see FIGS. 9-10 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lugs 996 can gently contact the consumer product 1600 to assist in cradling the consumer product 1600 while allowing for clearance between the sloped sidewalls 985 and the ends of the consumer product 1600 (described in more detail in connection with FIGS. 16 and 17 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lugs 996 further serve to allow the consumer product 1600 to be more easily removed from the first tray 500.

[0169] 12-13 are illustrations of bottom perspective views of a first tray 500, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figures 14-15 are front and side views of a first tray 500, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0170] 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 a distal end 1250 of the skirt 1240 extends to different heights. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the skirt 1240 has a first depth 1200 along an end section 1400 (see FIG. 14 ) of the first tray 500, a second depth 1210 along the rounded corners 905, and a third depth 1220 along a side section 1500 (see FIG. 15 ) 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 to allow the lower portion 940 of the rounded corner 905 to be gently gripped onto the second tray 510, as discussed in more detail in connection with Figures 40-41. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first depth 1200 and the third depth 1220 are the same depth.

[0171] In at least one exemplary embodiment, and as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the ridge portion 130 extends horizontally from the side wall 917 so that the surfaces of the upper ledge 915 and the lower ledge 925 are parallel to the top surface 992 of the first tray 500.

[0172] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 , in at least one exemplary embodiment, the width of the first tray 500 is within a range of about 95 mm to 115 mm, or about 100 mm to 110 mm, or about 106 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the length 1510 of the first tray 500 is within a range of about 140 mm to 160 mm, or about 105 mm to 155 mm, or about 153 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the height 1420 of the first tray 500 is within a range of about 15 mm to 30 mm, or about 18 mm to 25 mm, or about 21 mm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the height 1430 of the ridge 130 is within a range of about 1 mm to 5 mm, or about 2 mm to 4 mm, or about 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.

[0173] 16-17 are perspective and top views of a first tray 500 holding consumer products 1600, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIGS. 18-21 are illustrations of cross-sectional views of the first tray 500 (FIGS. XVIII-XVIII and XIX-XIX of FIG. 17), according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0174] In at least one exemplary embodiment, and as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 , when the consumer products 1600 are contained in the first tray 500, the top surfaces of the consumer products 1660 are 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 products 1600 to be easily grasped and removed from the first tray 500.

[0175] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a second gap 1620 exists between the first end 1600a of the consumer product 1600 and the sloped sidewall 985 of the shelf 982. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a third gap 1630 and a fourth gap 1640 exist between the sloped sidewalls 985 of the second half bowl 980 and the first half bowl 975, respectively, due in part to the placement of lugs 996 (see FIG. 17 ), 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 to allow the consumer product 1600 to be more easily removed from the first tray 500.

[0176] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sidewalls 917 flare outwardly 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 outwardly at a gentle angle 1800 that is approximately 1-2 degrees relative to a vertical plane 1810 (i.e., relative to the direction that is perpendicular to gravity when the first tray 500 is resting on a flat surface perpendicular to gravity).

[0177] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 1600 is an electronic device, more particularly a heated non-combustion device (or alternatively, an e-vaping device). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 1600 is an accessory or component of an electronic device, more particularly a heated non-combustion device (or alternatively, an e-vaping device). In at least one exemplary embodiment, some electronic devices are configured to heat the plant material to a temperature sufficient to release constituents of the plant material while maintaining the temperature below its ignition temperature so as to avoid self-sustaining or self-sustaining combustion of the plant material (i.e., as opposed to when the plant material is lit, such as with a lit end cigarette). Such devices can be characterized as generating an aerosol of the components released by heating and may be referred to as thermal non-combustion aerosol generating devices, or thermal non-combustion devices.

[0178] It should be understood that heating plant material below its ignition 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 and produces an aerosol with no or insubstantial levels of pyrolysis by-products of the plant material. Thus, in exemplary embodiments, pyrolysis of the plant material does not occur during heating and the resulting generation of the aerosol. In other embodiments, there may be incidental pyrolysis with the production of oxidation or other pyrolysis by-products that are insignificant relative to the major components released by heating the plant material.

[0179] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the ridges 950 hold 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 is seated in the second half bowl 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.

[0180] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a portion of the recess 970 hugs the underside 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 shelf 982 and a major surface of the first half bowl 975. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the underside of the consumer product 1600 is directly contacted by the ridged ridge 950. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second end 1600c of the consumer product 1600 directly contacts the second half bowl 980.

[0181] 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 e-vaping device), and the second end 1600c is the base end (wide end) of the thermal non-combustion device (or alternatively, the e-vaping device).

[0182] FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating first tray 500 and second tray 510 held in first section 110, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0183] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lower ledge 925 of the ridge 130 of the first tray 500 (see at least FIG. 14 ) contacts the peripheral edge 640 of the first section 110 (see at least FIG. 6 ) to help 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 housed within the first section 110 (see also FIG. 42 ). In particular, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the lower ledge 925 of the first tray 500 ( FIG. 12 ) rests on and is supported by the peripheral edge 640 of the first section 110 ( FIG. 6 ), as shown in FIGS. 22 and 42 .

[0184] 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 section 120 is removed from the outer container 100 (as shown in FIG. 22 ).

[0185] 22 , when the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are in the first section 110 and the second section 120 is not on the outer container, the top surface 992, the upper sidewall 920, and the upper ledge 915, and the outer surface 200 of the ridge 130 are directly visible. That is, the top surface 992, the upper sidewall 920, and the upper ledge 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.

[0186] 23-28 are perspective, top, and bottom views of second tray 510, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0187] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the top wall 2300 of the second tray 510 defines a major top 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 top 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 height (vertical height) of the second tray 510 that is between the major top surface 2345 and the second mating surface 2370.

[0188] In at least one exemplary embodiment, opposing sidewalls 2375 flank 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 shaped footprint (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 a rounded edge 2365 along the upper periphery of the top wall 2300.

[0189] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first recess 2305 and / or the second recess 2310 have a substantially square shaped footprint (see at least FIG. 25). Other shapes for the first recess 2305 and / or the second recess 2310 are also contemplated. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first recess 2305 has a larger size (footprint) relative to the second recess 2310 (see FIG. 25).

[0190] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the top wall 2300 of the second tray 510 defines a notch 2315 having a lower surface (valley) 2335 that is 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 from the first section 110.

[0191] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the side wall 2340 extends perpendicularly and downwardly from the top wall 2300 to form a skirt 2385 along the lower periphery of the second tray 510. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the skirt 2385 has a varying depth such that the distal end 2380 of the skirt 2385 extends to different heights. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the skirt 2385 has a first depth 2720 along the side portion 2725 of the second tray 510 and a second depth 2710 along the rounded corners 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 distal end 2380 of the skirt 2385 includes a sloped distal end surface 2700 at the transition between the side portion 2725 (having a first depth 2720) and the end portion 2730 (having a second depth 2710) of the lower side wall 2340.

[0192] 29-30 are illustrations of side views of second tray 510, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 31 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XXXI-XXXI of FIG. 25) of second tray 510, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 32 is an illustration of another cross-sectional view (view XXXI-XXXI of FIG. 25) of second tray 510 holding consumer information material 3200, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 33 is an illustration of another cross-sectional view (view XXXIII-XXXIII of FIG. 25) of second tray 510, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0193] In at least one exemplary embodiment, first engaging surface 2350 of second tray 510 can support and hold consumer products or accessories for consumer products. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first engaging surface 2350 supports and holds consumer informational material 3200 (see at least FIGS. 32 and 36). In at least one exemplary embodiment, edges 3600 of main top surface 2345 contact and hold consumer informational material 3200 in place on the top of second tray 510 (see FIG. 36). In at least one embodiment, consumer informational material 3200 is material related to consumer product 1600. In at least one exemplary embodiment, edges 3600 of main top surface 2345 are on opposite sides of consumer informational material 3200 to stably hold consumer informational material 3200 on the top of second tray 510.

[0194] 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 engaging surface 2350 to the respective floors 2355 / 2360 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.

[0195] 34-36 are illustrations of additional consumer products 3400 held in the second tray 510, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0196] In at least one exemplary embodiment, second tray 510 holds added consumer products 3400. In at least one exemplary embodiment, added consumer products 3400 include consumer information 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 contain USB charger 3410 and second recess 2310 is sized to contain insert 4800. In at least one exemplary embodiment, first recess 2305 and second recess 2310 are sized to contain one or more of added consumer products 3400 while allowing consumer information material 3200 to remain supported and lie flat on first mating surface 2350. In at least one exemplary embodiment, added 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 as 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.

[0197] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the periphery of the second tray 510 fits within the interior of the first section 110 such that the second tray 510 fits snugly within the interior of the first section 110 (see FIGS. 36 and 42-43). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the top 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 top of the second tray 510 within the first section 110, the sidewalls 917 of the first tray 500 fit into the valleys 3610 to stably hold the first tray 500 (see particularly Figures 42 and 43).

[0198] 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 (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 an illustration of 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.

[0199] In at least one exemplary embodiment, and 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 connected together 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.

[0200] 39, either the first tray 500 or the second tray 510 can be rotated (specifically, rotated 180 degrees) while the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 can still be coupled 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, respectively, can be connected to one another, and the third and fourth ends 3930 and 3940 of the first and second trays 500 and 510, respectively, can be connected to one another. Alternatively, (as an example) the first tray 500 can be rotated, in which case the first end 3900 and the fourth end 3940 of the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are respectively connected to each other, and the third end 3930 and the second end 3910 of the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 are respectively connected to each other.

[0201] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 37, the combined height (stackable height) 3700 of the first tray 500 and the second tray 510 connected together is within a range of approximately 25 mm to 40 mm, or approximately 30 mm to 35 mm, or approximately 33 mm.

[0202] Figure 42 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XLII-XLII of Figure 1) of outer container 100 including a first tray 500 and a second tray 510, where second tray 510 supports consumer informational material 3200, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 43 is an illustration of another cross-sectional view (view XLIII-XLIII of Figure 1) of outer container 100 including a first tray 500 and a second tray 510, where first tray 500 contains consumer products 1600, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0203] 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 the lowest surface (lowest vertical height) of the second tray 510.

[0204] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the general shape of the first tray 500 is matched to the general shapes of the first section 110 and the second section 120. In particular, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the sidewalls 917 of the first tray 500 are matched to the inner surfaces of the first section 110 and the second section 120. In at least one exemplary embodiment, and as described above, the sidewalls 917 of the first tray 500 fit into the valleys 3610 defined by the first section 110 and the second tray 510, while the ridges 130 of the first tray 500 are gripped by the peripheral edges 640 of the first section 110 and the second section 120.

[0205] 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 the 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.

[0206] Figure 44 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view (view XLII-XLII of Figure 1) of outer container 100 including 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 outer container 100 including a first tray 500, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0207] 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 to support the first tray 500.

[0208] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the interior depth 4400 of the first tray 500 is within a range of about 10 mm to about 20 mm, or about 12.5 mm to about 17.5 mm, or about 15 mm.

[0209] Figure 46 is an illustration of an exploded view of a package 4600, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 47 is a perspective view of a package 4600 sealed "closed" using a band 520, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0210] In at least one exemplary embodiment, package 4600 includes outer container 100 with first tray 500 and second tray 510 (see FIG. 46). In at least one exemplary embodiment, first tray 500 of package 4600 includes consumer products 1600, and second tray 510 includes additional consumer products 3400. In at least one exemplary embodiment, band 520 is connected to or at least partially contained within outer container 100 to aid in sealing package 4600 (see FIG. 47). In at least one exemplary embodiment, band 520 is connected to outer container 100, and band 520 maintains outer container 100 in a closed position by preventing outer container 100 from being pried open at seam 4700 between first section 1100 and second section 120, thereby providing tamper resistance to package 4600.

[0211] Insert

[0212] FIG. 48 is an illustration of a top perspective view of an insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 49 is a top view of a base 4810 of an insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 50 is an illustration of a side view of a base 4810 of an insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 51 is an illustration of a bottom view of a base 4810 of an insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 52 is an illustration of a back view of a base 4810 of an insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 53 is an illustration of a front view of a base 4810 of an insert 4800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0213] 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 the top 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 a lower surface 5000 of the collar 4840 (FIG. 50). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the insert 4800 includes a consumer product 5400, as shown in FIG. 54. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 4820 includes a floor (lower surface) 4950 and a wall 4960 (see FIG. 49). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wall portion 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 traverses any height of the recess 4820 (see example 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 (at the second end wall 4910) to the second end (at the first end wall 4900) of the recess 4820. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 4820 has a trapezoidal shape from an overhead perspective (as shown in FIG. 49 ).

[0214] 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 collar 4840 and recess 4820 is rounded (chamfered) such that wall 4960 flares outward as recess 4820 meets collar 4840 (see at least FIGS. 49-50 and 52-53 ).

[0215] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the collar 4840 includes an upper surface 5010 and a lower surface 5000 (see FIG. 50). In at least one exemplary embodiment, a lid 4850 (FIG. 48) connects to at least a portion of the upper surface 5010. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid 4850 covers the upper surface 5010. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 4820 extends from the lower surface 5000.

[0216] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wall 4960 flares outward from a lower elevation to an upper elevation 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 elevation of the recess 4820 (FIG. 50)—just as the first width 5200 of the recess 4820 at the lower elevation is less than the second width 5210 of the recess 4820 (FIG. 52) at the upper elevation. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wall 4960 has major surfaces having a trapezoidal shape with rounded lower corners 4980 of the trapezoid, as shown in at least FIGS. 50, 52, and 53.

[0217] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 4810 and / or the lid 4850 are made from thermoformed plastic that is heated and then molded or extruded during the manufacturing process. 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.

[0218] 50, the thickness 5030 of the base 4810 is uniform across the collar 4840 and the recess 4820. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the thickness 5030 is about 0.1 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, or about 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, or about 0.4 mm. 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, is about 0.1 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, or about 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, or about 0.4 mm, and the 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 resiliency standpoint, as the thickness 5030 must not be too thin to avoid holes being formed in the base 4810 during the thermoforming manufacturing process, and the thickness 5030 must not be too large to ensure 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, must be thin enough to allow the recess 4820 to crumple when the floor 4950 of the recess 4820 is pressed against the lid 4850 in order to force the consumer product 5400 through the lid 4850, or weakened region 6800 of the lid 4850 (see discussion of FIG. 68 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the thickness of collar 4840 and the thickness of recess 4820, or a portion of recess 4820, differ from one another.

[0219] 54-55 are perspective and top views of a base 4810 including a consumer product 5400, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. 56-60 are perspective and orthogonal views of the consumer product 5400, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. 61-62 are diagrams illustrating orthogonal views of the consumer product 5400 within the cavity 4830 of the base 4810, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. 63 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a base (view LXIII-LXIII of FIG. 55) according to at least one exemplary embodiment. 64 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a base (view LXIV-LXIV of FIG. 55) according to at least one exemplary embodiment. 65 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a base (view LXV-LXV of FIG. 55) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0220] In at least one exemplary embodiment, cavity 4830 of insert 4800 contains 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 multiple consumer products, or a component or accessory 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).

[0221] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recess 4820 defines a cavity 4830 such that the cavity 4830 conforms to the contours of the consumer product 5400. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 5400 includes a nose portion 5500 having a first width 5535 that flares out at a distal end 5505 of the nose portion 5500 (see, in particular, FIGS. 55 and 57 ), such that the first width 5535 is wider than the second width 5540 near a midsection of the consumer product 5400. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the distal end 5505 of the nose portion 5500 has an oval major surface (see at least FIG. 60 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 5400 includes a frame 5410 on a back 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 surface 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 surface 5510 of the frame 5410 has a surface area that is greater than a surface area of ​​the distal end 5505 of the nose portion 5500. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer product 5400 has a minimum width 5700 and a minimum thickness 5840 near the nose portion 5500 of the consumer product 5400 (see FIGS. 57 and 58).

[0222] 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 a configuration having a first half (top) 5810 that is a mirror image of a second half (bottom) 5820, the first half 5810 and second half 5820 being separated by an imaginary horizontal plane 5800 that bisects the consumer product 5400 (see FIGS. 58 and 59).

[0223] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the walls 4960 of the recess 4820 cradle and protect the consumer product 5400 such that the consumer product 5400 is shielded 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 nose 5500 of the consumer product 5400 and the second end wall 4910 contacts the back 5510 of the consumer product 5400 to restrict 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 nose portion 5500 and frame 5410 of the consumer product 5400 to inhibit movement of the consumer product 5400 in the second direction 5530 along the width of the longitudinal length of the base 4810 (see Figures 55 and 61-62).

[0224] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the frame 5410 of the consumer product 5400 is at least partially cradled by the floor 4950, the corners 4980, the first sidewall 4920, and the second sidewall 4930 (see FIG. 63, which is view LXIII-LXIII of FIG. 55) to hold the frame 5410 in a "stabilized" position within the cavity 4830. 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 small and / or nearly negligible to further stabilize the frame 5410 within the cavity 4830. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the foot 5420 contacts the floor 4950 to further support the consumer product 5400 within the cavity 4830 (see at least FIG. 64, which is view LXIV-LXIV of FIG. 55). In at least one exemplary embodiment, a second gap 6400 is present between the outer side of the consumer product 5400 and the sidewalls 4920 / 4930 (see FIGS. 55 and 64), which allows the consumer product 5400 to be more easily grasped by the middle portion and removed from the cavity 4830. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a third gap 6500 is present between the nose portion 5500 of the consumer product 5400 and the sidewalls 4920 / 4930 (see FIG. 65, which is view LXV-LXV of FIG. 55), which allows the nose portion 5500 to shift slightly (in a second direction 5530 as shown in FIG. 55).

[0225] 66, 67A, and 67B are illustrations of perspective and orthogonal views of a base 4810 including a consumer product 5400 in at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0226] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nose portion 5500 of the consumer product 5400 remains in a horizontal (level) position where the imaginary horizontal plane 5800 is substantially parallel to the floor 4950 of the recess 4820, such that the nose portion 5500 appears to be “floating” within the cavity 4830, at least due to the feet 5420 contacting the floor 4950 and the first end wall 4900 and second end wall 4910 contacting the nose portion 5500 and the frame 5410, holding the frame 5410 in a “stabilized” position (as described above) (see at least FIG. 67A , which illustrates the consumer product 5400 held in a stabilized horizontal position with the nose “floating”). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the third gap 6500 can be negligible or non-existent to further support the nose portion 5500 and hold the consumer product 5400 in a stabilized horizontal position (as shown in FIG. 67A ).

[0227] 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 visible 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).

[0228] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 67B, the frame 5410 of the consumer product 5400 can be held less firmly (e.g., the first gap 6300 in FIGS. 63 and 67A can be at least large enough to allow the frame 5410 to shift toward or away from the first end wall 4900 and the second end wall 4910) so that the bottom of the nose portion 5500 contacts the floor 4950 of the recess 4820.

[0229] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the length 6700 of the insert 4800 is in a 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 a 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 a range of about 30 mm to 40 mm, or about 35 mm to 37.5 mm, or about 36 mm.

[0230] 68 and 69 are illustrations of perspective views of an insert 4800 including a consumer product 5400 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0231] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid 4850 is adhered onto the top surface 5010 (see FIG. 50) of the collar 4840 of the base 4810 such that the consumer product 5400 is sealed 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 otherwise degrade the consumer product 5400 or consumable materials within the consumer product 5400.

[0232] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a lid 4850 covers the top surface 5010, as shown in FIGS. 68 and 69 . In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid 4850 includes a weakened region 6800 that at least partially overlies the cavity 4830. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the weakened region 6800 is defined by a boundary line 6810. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the boundary line 6810 is a scored, embossed, perforated, or otherwise weakened line that allows the lid 4850 to be more easily torn along the boundary line 6810 to allow the consumer product 5400 to be released from the cavity 4830. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the weakened region 6800 is a thinned region of the lid 4850 that is more susceptible to tearing or puncturing than the remainder of the lid 4850, regardless of whether the weakened region 6800 includes the boundary line 6810 that is also a weakened line. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the weakened region 6800 and / or the border 6810 of the weakened region 6800 allow the consumer product 5400 to be pushed 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 composite of paper and foil), paper, cardboard, a cardboard composite, industrial starch, wood pulp, biopolymer, other suitable packaging materials, or a combination 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 weakened region 6800 of the lid 4850, is about 0.02 mm to 0.1 mm, or about 0.03 mm to 0.9 mm, or about 0.4 mm to 0.7 mm, or about 0.06 mm.

[0233] 70-72 are illustrations of perspective and orthogonal views of a base 4810 including a consumer product 5400 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0234] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 4810 includes two recesses 4820. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the recesses 4820 are in an "opposing arrangement" 7000 such that one nose portion 5500 of each of the consumer products 5400 faces one another (as shown in FIGS. 70-72). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the opposing configuration 7000 instead faces the back surfaces 5510 of each of the consumer products 5400 (not shown).

[0235] 73-75 are illustrations of perspective and orthogonal views of a base 4810 including a consumer product 5400 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0236] 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 configuration" 7300 (as shown in FIGS. 73-75 ) such that the nose 5500 of one consumer product 5400 faces the back 5510 of the other consumer product 5400.

[0237] FIG. 76 is an illustration of a perspective view of inserts 4800 held in second tray 510, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0238] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 76 , the insert 4800 is partially receivable within the second recess 2310 of the second tray 510. In at least one exemplary embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 76 , the recess 4820 of the insert 4800 can be received within the second recess 2310, while the lid 4850 and collar 4840 of the insert 4800 are at least partially supported by the first mating surface 2350 of the second tray 510.

[0239] Bands for packages

[0240] 77A and 77B are illustrations of a blank 7705 for a band 7700, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0241] In at least one exemplary embodiment, band 520 (as shown at least in 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 ) is 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.

[0242] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7705 is a single strip (web) of material. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7705 includes wide panels 7710 connected to one another. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wide panels 7710 are connected by narrow panels 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, each of the wide panels 7710 is separated from one 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.

[0243] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7705 includes two of the wide panels 7710. In at least one exemplary embodiment, one of the narrow panels 7720 of the blank 7705 is between and connects the wide panels 7710. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the terminal panels 7715 are at opposite distal ends of the blank 7705. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the terminal panel 7715 includes one of the narrow panels 7720 and one of the wide panels 7710 (as shown in FIG. 77A ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the terminal panel 7715 includes two wide panels 7710 or two narrow panels 7720. Other configurations of the wide panels 7710 and narrow panels 7720 are also contemplated.

[0244] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a first fold line 7775 separates the wide panel 7710 from the narrow panel 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a second fold line 7750 runs along some or all of the width of the narrow panel 7720, perpendicular to the longitudinal length 7725 of the blank 7705. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first fold line 7775 and the second fold line 7750 can be creases, embossed lines, score lines, etc. 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 central panel 7760 and side panels 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 chamfer in the narrow panel 7720 that conforms the shape of the band 7700 to the outer container 100 (described in more detail in connection with FIGS. 81 , 83 , and 87 ).

[0245] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7705 defines a tear strip 7730. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 runs perpendicular to the longitudinal length 7725 of the blank 7705. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 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 at least one 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.

[0246] In at least one exemplary embodiment, blank 7705 includes indicator 7770 (see FIG. 77B) on at least one major surface of blank 7705. In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicia 7770 is on a surface of blank 7705, such that when band 7700 is connected to a container, indicia 7770 is visible on at least an opposing surface of the container. In at least one exemplary embodiment, band 7700 is connected to outer container 100, such that indicator 7770 is visible on a flat major surface 140 of outer container 100, such that flat major surfaces 140 face each other on outer container 100 (see at least FIGS. 1 and 83-84). In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicia 7770 is "billboard information." In at least one exemplary embodiment, billboard information includes advertising, consumer product information and / or warnings, sales or consumer brochure information, ingredients, required state and federal government information, etc.

[0247] In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicator 7770 is on a first side (top) 7780 of blank 7705, while a second side (bottom) 7785 of blank 7705 is expected to be connected to outer container 100 and is therefore obscured (see FIG. 77B and FIGS. 83-84). In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicator 7770 is on both first side 7780 and second side 7785, thereby making blank 7705 versatile and interchangeable when connected to outer container 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicator 7770 on both first side 7780 and second side 7785 are the same type of indicator for each side 7780 / 7785 of blank 7705, or indicators 7770 are identical. In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicators 7770 on first side 7780 and second side 7785 are different types of indicators containing different information. In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicator 7770 is on a major surface of wide panel 7710 of band 7700. In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicator 7770 is on one or both wide panels 7710 and / or indicator 7770 is on narrow panel 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, instructions 7770 are on narrow panel 7720 to provide instructions and / or call attention to the presence and / or use of tear strip 7730. In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicator 7770 is on each of wide panels 7710, where indicator 7770 may be the same (redundant) on each of wide panels 7710 or indicator 7770 may be different on each of wide panels 7710 to provide flexibility or to match the needs of the consumer product display (not shown) displaying and dispensing package 4600 (see at least FIG. 83 ).

[0248] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7705 is flexible, allowing the band 7700 to be formed into a shape that conforms to the exterior surface of the outer container 100 (see at least FIG. 83). To this end, and in at least one exemplary embodiment, the shape of the wide panel 7710 and / or the shape of the narrow panel 7720 are adapted to the shape of the outer container 100 and / or to the shape of the portion of the outer container 100 to which the wide panel 7710 and the narrow panel 7720 are connected when the band 7700 is connected to the outer container 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wide panel 7710 is adapted to the shape of the flat major surface 140 of the first section 110 and / or the second section 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 example embodiment, the wide panel 7710 has a square shape. Other sizes for the wide panel 7710 are also contemplated.

[0249] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length 7726 and width 7735 of the wide panel 7710 are sized to conform the wide panel 7710 to 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 conform to the shape of the rounded corners 145 of the outer container 100, allowing the shape of the wide panel 7710 to better match 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 enables the wide panel 7710 to be properly positioned on the flat major surface 140 of the outer container 100 when the band 7700 is coupled to the outer container 100 (see at least FIG. 83).

[0250] In at least one exemplary embodiment, at least one of the terminal panels 7715 includes a tab 7765 at a distal end of the terminal panel 7715. In at least one exemplary embodiment, one of the second fold lines 7750 divides the tab 7765 from the terminal panel 7715. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tab 7765 is at a distal end of the terminal panel 7715 that is a narrow panel 7720. In another exemplary embodiment, the tab 7765 is at a distal end of the terminal 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 distal-most end 7796 of the tab 7765.

[0251] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length 7725 of the blank 7705 is within a 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 within a 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 within a 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 within a 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 ranges from about 30 mm to 45 mm, or from about 35 mm to 40 mm, or from 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 of the wide panels 7710 has the same common width 7735, and each of the narrow panels 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.

[0252] 78A and 78B are illustrations of a blank 7805 for a band 7800, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0253] The blank 7805 of Figures 78A / B is the same as the blank 7705 of Figures 77A / B, with the exceptions described herein. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7805 includes a terminal panel 7715 that is a wide panel 7810. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7805 includes a center panel 7840 that is a wide panel 7710. In at least one embodiment, the center panel 7840 is between the terminal panels 7715. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wide panel 7810 that is a terminal 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 Figure 78B). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7805 includes a straight edge 7860. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the edge 7860 includes 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.

[0254] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7805 includes a tear strip 7730 on each one of the narrow panels 7720. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear directions 7855 of the tear strips 7730 on each narrow panel 7720 are parallel and opposite to each other (as shown in FIG. 78A ). In at least another exemplary embodiment, the tear directions 7855 of the tear strips 7730 on each narrow panel 7720 are in the same direction relative to each other.

[0255] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7805 is in the form of a "sticker" having a temporary adhesive on a second side 7785 of the blank 7805 (i.e., the side of the blank that is not visible in FIG. 78B). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7805 is attached to a backing 7850 ( FIG. 78B ) prior to use. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the temporary adhesive allows the blank 7805 to be easily peeled from the 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 "tackifier" substance, such as a rosin ester. In at least one exemplary embodiment, when connecting the blank 7805 to the outer container 100 (as shown at least in FIGS. 90 and 91 ), the blank 7805 is peeled from the backing 7850 and connected to the outer container 100 using a temporary adhesive or a combination of temporary and additional adhesive (sometimes referred to herein as “adhesive”). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the added adhesive has a higher bond strength compared to the temporary adhesive. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the added adhesive includes a hot melt adhesive, a water-based adhesive, an epoxy, a two-part adhesive, a polyurethane laminating adhesive, or a combination thereof.

[0256] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length 7825 of the blank 7805 is in 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 terminal panel 7715 (wide panel 7810) of the blank 7805 is in 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 terminal panel 7715 is one-half, or less than one-half, of the longitudinal length 7726 of the wide panel 7710, which is the central panel 7840 of the blank 7805. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal length 7820 of the terminal panel 7715 is one-third (33%) of the longitudinal length 7726 of the wide panel 7726, which is the central panel 7840 of the blank 7805.

[0257] 79A and 79B are illustrations of a blank 7905 for a band 7900, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0258] 79A / B is the same as the blank 7705 of FIGS. 77A / B, with the exceptions described herein. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7905 includes a terminal panel 7715 that includes one narrow panel 7720 and one wide panel 7710. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the terminal panel 7715, which is the wide panel 7710, includes a tab 7915 at a distal end of the wide panel 7710. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tab 7915 includes side edges 7920 that are angled and taper toward each other as the side edges 7920 reach a distal-most end 7945 of the tab 7915.

[0259] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7905 defines a tear strip 7930. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7930 runs perpendicular to the longitudinal length 7925 of the blank 7905. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7905 defines a plurality of 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, allowing the tear strip 7930 to be pulled by initiating from either side of the tear strip 7930.

[0260] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the terminal 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 that runs 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 tear strips 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 notches 7910 and tear strips 7930 can be aligned along a portion of the seam 4700 of the outer container 100 to ensure that the band 7900 is properly positioned on the outer container 100 (see at least FIGS. 97-98 and 101 ).

[0261] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the length 7935 of the tab 7915 ranges from about 3 mm to 5 mm, or is about 4 mm.

[0262] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7705 / 7805 / 7905 is made from cardboard, paper, paperboard, other suitable packaging material, or a combination thereof. In another exemplary embodiment, the blank 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.

[0263] 80A and 80B are illustrations of tear strips 7730 / 7930 according to an example embodiment.

[0264] 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 blank 7705 / 7805. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 extends across one width 7745 of a narrow panel 7720 of the blank 7705 / 7805 from a first side edge 8050 to a second side edge 8060 of the portion of the blank 7705 / 7805 (see Figures 77A-78B and 80A). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 extends across one width of a wide panel 7710 of the blank 7705 / 7805 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal length 7725 / 7825 of the blank 7705 / 7805. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7730 has a tip 8035 where the tear strip 7730 is gripped and initially torn along the tear direction 7855 to tear the tear strip 7730 completely.

[0265] 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 section 8005 and a second section 8010, wherein the first section 8005 of each slit 8000 is aligned to be collinear with one another on the first side 8015 and the second side 8025 of the tear strip 7730, and the second section 8010 extends toward a centerline 8055 of the tear strip 7730. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first section 8005 of each slit 8000 extends from an apex 8070 of the slit 8000 in a direction parallel to and the same as the tear direction 7855 of the tear strip 7730. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a gap 8020 exists between the first section 8005 of each slit 8000. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the slits 8000 are evenly spaced, such that the gap 8020 is a uniform gap between each slit 8000. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a gap 8045 may exist between the first side edge 8050 of the blank 7705 / 7805 and the end 8075 of the first section 8005 of the slit 8000. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the gap 8045 is absent in some of the blanks 7705 / 7805 (see, for example, blank 7705 in FIGS. 77A / B ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, for a blank that is a "sticker" embodiment (see, e.g., blank 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., blank 7705 in Figures 77A / B).

[0266] In at least one exemplary embodiment, notches 8030 are defined by second side edges 8060 of the blank 7705 / 7805 on either side of the leading edge 8035 of the tear strip 7730 to assist in initiating tearing of the tear strip 7730.

[0267] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7930 of the blank 7905 ( FIGS. 79A / B ) is a bidirectional tear strip 7930 that can be torn in a tear direction 7955 beginning at a leading edge 8035 of either the first side edge 8050 or the second side edge 8060 of a portion of the blank 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 the first side edge 8050 and the second side edge 8060 of the blank 7705 / 7805 on the side of the tear strip 7930 to assist in initiating tearing of the tear strip 7930.

[0268] 81-82 are illustrations of perspective views of a band 7700 positioned to be connected to a package, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figures 83-87 are perspective and side views of a band 7700 on an outer container 100, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0269] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7705 is folded such that the tab 7765 reaches around and connects to the second side 7785 of the blank 7705, configuring the band 7700 to fit around the package (see at least FIGS. 83 and 84). In another exemplary embodiment, the tab 7765 is connected to the first side 7780 of the blank 7705 when the blank 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 once 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.

[0270] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the blank 7705 is formed into the band 7700 by connecting the tab 7765 to a portion of the wider panel 7710 using added adhesive (see at least FIGS. 81 and 87). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the side panel 7755 forms a chamfer in the narrow panel 7720 to allow the narrow panel 7720 to wrap around the rounded side edge 210 of the outer container 100 when the band 7700 is connected to the outer container 100 (see at least FIGS. 83, 84, and 87). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 7700 is connected to the outer container 100 such that the narrow panel 7720 covers the opening of the outer container 100 to prevent the outer container 100 from inadvertently opening. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the narrow panel 7720 overlays the seam 4700 of the outer container 100 to provide tamper resistance to the package 4600 when the band 7700 is connected to the outer container 100 (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 particularly FIGS. 83 and 87). In at least one exemplary embodiment, by overlapping and aligning the tear strip 7730 with a portion of the seam 4700, the seam 4700 allows an object or fingernail to more easily grasp the tip 8035 of the tear strip 7730 to initiate tearing of the tear strip 7730.

[0271] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 7700 runs along the longitudinal length of the outer container 100, with the narrow panel 7720 extending across the second side wall 620 of the outer container 100, the second side wall 620 being shorter than the first side wall 610 of the outer container 100 (see FIGS. 84 and 85). In another exemplary embodiment, the band 7700 runs along the width of the outer container 100, with the narrow panel 7720 extending across the first side wall 610 of the outer container 100, the first side wall 610 being longer than the second side wall 620 (see at least FIG. 47). In another exemplary embodiment, the first side wall 610 and the second side wall 620 are the same length, and the size of the band 7700 is matched to the size of the outer container 100.

[0272] 88-89 are illustrations of perspective views of a band 7800 positioned to be connected to a package, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figures 90-94 are perspective and side views of a band 7800 on an outer container 100, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0273] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 7800 connects to the outer container 100 in the same manner as the band 7700, with the following exceptions described herein. In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the band 7800 is connected to the outer container 100, a gap 9100 exists between the edges 7860 of the terminal panel 7715 of the band 7800 (see at least FIG. 91 ). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the gap 9100 allows an exposed portion 9105 of the outer container 100 to be visible when the band 7800 is attached to the outer container 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, indicia 7770 and / or consumer information can be included on the exposed portion 9105.

[0274] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second side 7785 of the band 7800 is connected to the outer container 100 using temporary and / or additional adhesive. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 7800 embraces the outer surface of the outer container 100, where the band 7800 embraces the rounded side edges 210 of the outer container 100 (see at least FIG. 94 ).

[0275] 95-96 are illustrations of perspective views of a band 7900 positioned to be connected to a package, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figures 97-101 are perspective and side views of a band 7900 on an outer container 100, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0276] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 7900 is connected to the outer container 100 in the same manner as the band 7700, with the following exceptions described herein. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tab 7765 is connected to the second side 7785 of the blank 7905 to form the band 7900 (see at least FIGS. 95 and 101). In at least another exemplary embodiment, the tab 7765 is connected to the first side of the blank 7905 to form the band 7900. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the tear strip 7930 is aligned with the seam 4700 of the outer container 100, while the wide panel 7710 is positioned to cover at least a portion of the flat major surface 140 of the outer container 100 (see at least FIGS. 97-98 and 101).

[0277] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the band 7900 is not adhesively connected to the outer container 100. In at least another exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the second side 7785 of the band 7900 is connected to the outer container 100 using a temporary adhesive and / or an 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 embraces the outer surface of the outer container 100, where the band 7900 embraces the rounded side edges 210 of the outer container 100 (see at least FIG. 101 ).

[0278] While illustrative 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 package comprising an outer container and a first tray; the outer container includes a first section and a second section; The first tray comprises: disposed within the outer container; the first tray defines a ridge along a periphery of the first tray; When the outer container is in a closed position and the first tray is retained within the outer container, the ridge is retained between a first peripheral edge of the first section and a second peripheral edge of the second section.

2. 10. The package of claim 1, a package wherein a first exterior surface of the ridge is visible from outside the package when the outer container is in the closed position and the first tray is retained within the outer container.

3. 10. The package of claim 1, When the outer container is in the closed position and the first tray is retained within the outer container, a first outer surface of the ridge is flush with second outer surfaces of the first section and the second section.

4. 10. The package of claim 1, A package wherein a first exterior surface of the ridge forms a portion of an exterior surface of the entire package when the outer container is in the closed position and the first tray is retained within the outer container.

5. 10. The package of claim 1, the ridge extending horizontally outward from a first sidewall of the first tray.

6. 10. The package of claim 1, each of the first section and the second section having a second sidewall extending from an end wall; The package, wherein the first section and the second section are identical to one another.

7. 7. The package of claim 6, The package, wherein the first periphery and the second periphery are distal ends of the second side wall furthest from the end walls of the first section and the second section, respectively.

8. 8. The package of claim 7, The package, wherein the first inner surface of the second side wall slopes outwardly from the end wall toward the first and second perimeter edges.

9. 7. The package of claim 6, the second side walls of each of the first section and the second section include a first pair of opposing side walls and a second pair of opposing side walls.

10. 10. The package of claim 9, The package wherein the second sidewall has a horizontal cross section that is substantially rectangular in shape.

11. 10. The package of claim 9, Each of the first section and the second section comprises: defining a first interior rounded angle and a first exterior rounded angle between the end wall and the second side wall; The package defines second rounded interior and exterior angles between each of the first pair of opposing side walls and each of the second pair of opposing side walls.

12. 10. The package of claim 1, The package, wherein the first tray defines a recess for a first consumer product.

13. 10. The package of claim 1, The package, wherein the first tray is selectively removable from the outer container.

14. 10. The package of claim 1, The package further comprising a second tray within the outer container, wherein a first lower portion of the first tray is at least partially connected to a first upper portion of the second tray.

15. 15. The package of claim 14, The package, wherein the first tray and the second tray are selectively removable from the outer container.

16. 15. The package of claim 14, A package wherein a lower surface of the second tray contacts an end wall of the first section of the outer container when the second tray is held within the outer container.

17. 15. The package of claim 14, the second section of the outer container is removed from the package; When the first tray and the second tray are held within the first section, A package, wherein a first top surface of the first tray forms at least a portion of a second top surface of the package.

18. 18. The package of claim 17, The second upper portion of the ridge forms part of a second upper surface of the package.

19. 18. The package of claim 17, the first tray includes a first sidewall extending vertically downward from the first top surface; The package, wherein the first lower portion includes at least a portion of a distal end of the first sidewall.

20. 18. The package of claim 17, the first tray includes a first sidewall extending vertically downward from the first top surface; the first sidewall includes a first lower corner that is rounded at a joining location; The package, wherein the first lower portion includes a distal end of the first lower corner.

21. 21. The package of claim 20, the first top of the second tray defines a first rounded outer corner; The package, wherein the first bottom corner is configured to grip the first outer corner to connect the first tray to the second tray.

22. 21. The package of claim 20, The package, wherein an outer surface of the first side wall and a second outer surface of the second tray conform to a shape of a first inner surface of the first section.

23. 23. The package of claim 22, the second outer surface of the second tray, the third top surface of the second tray, and the second sidewall of the first section define a valley; the first side wall of the first tray is fitted into the valley when connected to the first tray and the second tray and held by the first section.

24. 24. The package of claim 23, When the second tray is held in the first section, the valley being defined along the entire periphery of the second tray.

25. 15. The package of claim 14, the first tray defining at least one first recess for at least one first consumer product; The package, wherein the second tray defines at least one second recess for at least one second consumer product.

26. 26. The package of claim 25, the at least one first consumer product contained within the at least one first recess; and the at least one second consumer product contained within the at least one second recess.

27. 27. The package of claim 26, the at least one first consumer product is a heat-noncombustible device; The at least one second consumer product includes an accessory for the heat-resistant device.

28. 27. The package of claim 26, the package further comprises consumer information material; a third upper surface of the second tray defining a first mating surface; The package, wherein the consumer information material is retained within the first mating surface.

29. 27. The package of claim 26, the second section is removed from the package; When the first tray is held within the first section, the at least one surface of the at least one first consumer product is visible within the at least one first recess.

30. 15. The package of claim 14, further comprising a band surrounding at least a portion of the outer container; The band is at least one wide panel; The package, wherein the wide panel conforms to and is in direct contact with at least one major surface of either or both of the first section and the second section.

31. 31. The package of claim 30, the band defines at least one tear strip extending across a portion of the width of the band; the at least one tear strip is aligned with a portion of the ridge and extends along a front surface of a portion of the ridge.

Images