Package with additional message window

Abstract

A package for holding a product is provided. The package includes a package housing having an internal cavity and an end wall positionable to selectively contain the product in the internal cavity. The end wall includes a first wall member and a second wall member and at least part of the first wall member is movable relative to the second wall member between a closed position and an open position. A second wall surface of the second wall member is positioned to face the first wall member and at least a portion of the second wall surface is exposed when the first wall member is in the open position.

Description

PACKAGE WITH ADDITIONAL MESSAGE WINDOWCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONSThis application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 63 / 651,490, filed on May 24, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the art of packaging and more particularly to a package having a flap movable to reveal a hidden message.BACKGROUND

[0002] Comestible products including confections, such as chocolate and hard candies for example, are available to consumers in a variety of different formats. One of these formats includes a package or box having a removable lid and a tray of confections arranged inside. Such a format is frequently given as a gift. However, such a format requires a separate tag or card to be attached to the exterior of the package if the person giving the gift wants to write a note to the recipient.

[0003] A package that eliminates the need for a separate tag is therefore desirable.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0004] According to an embodiment, a package for holding a product is provided. The package includes a package housing having an internal cavity and an end wall positionable to selectively contain the product in the internal cavity. The end wall includes a first wall member and a second wall member and at least part of the first wall member is movable relative to the second wall member between a closed position and an open position. A second wall surface of the second wall member is positioned to face the first wall member and at least a portion of the second wall surface is exposed when the first wall member is in the open position.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first wall member includes a first portion and a second portion and the at least part of the first wall member that is movable relative to the second wall member includes the first portion.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first portion of the first wall member is a flap and the flap is arranged at a center of the first wall member.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first portion of the first wall member is a flap and the flap being offset from a center of the end wall.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the end wall has a first shape and the first portion of the first wall member has a second shape. The first shape is the same as the second shape.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the end wall has a first shape and the first portion of the first wall member has a second shape. The first shape is different from the second shape.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in the closed position, the first portion of the first wall member is flush with the second portion of the first wall member.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in the closed position, the first portion of the first wall member is vertically offset from the second portion of the first wall member.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first portion of the first wall member is separable from the second portion of the first wall member along at least one line of weakness.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one line of weakness extends about only some of a periphery of the portion of the first wall member.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least part of the first wall member movable relative to the second wall member is connected to the second wall member at a connected part in both the closed position and the open position.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the connected part defines a hinge axis about which the portion of the first wall member is rotatable relative to the second wall member.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the connected part of the first wall member has a linear configuration.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments an opening is formed at an outer surface of the end wall when the at least part of the first wall member is in the open position. The second wall surface is visible via the opening.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second wall surface does not have any markings pre-printed thereon.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second wall surface has at least one marking pre-printed thereon.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments an additional component is arranged between the part of the first wall member movable relative to the second wall member and the second wall surface. The additional component is operably coupled to the part of the first wall member.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a mechanism for retaining the at least part of the first wall member in the closed position.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the mechanism includes an adhesive.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments an engagement portion of the first wall member is engageable with a recess formed in the end wall.

[0024] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the recess is formed in the second wall surface of the second wall member.

[0025] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the engagement portion of the first wall member includes an engagement flap having a protrusion. The protrusion is receivable with the recess.

[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a notch is formed in the end wall and is associated with the part of the first wall member movable relative to the second wall member.

[0027] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments both the first wall member and the second wall member traverse the end wall.

[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodimentsBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:

[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a package in a closed configuration according to an embodiment;

[0031] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of a package in a closed configuration according to an embodiment;

[0032] FIG. 3A is a side view of a package in an open configuration with a first housing member separated from a second housing member according to an embodiment;

[0033] FIG. 3B is a side view of a package in a closed configuration according to an embodiment;

[0034] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the package of FIG. 2 according to an embodiment;

[0035] FIG. 5 is a plan view of an end wall of a package having a first wall member in a closed position according to an embodiment;

[0036] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of an end wall of a package having part of a first wall member in a closed position according to an embodiment;

[0037] FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of the package of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment;

[0038] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of an end wall of a package having a part of a first wall member in an open position according to an embodiment;

[0039] FIG. 9 is another perspective view of an end wall of a package having a part of a first wall member in an open position according to an embodiment;

[0040] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of an end wall of a package having a part of a first wall member in an open position according to an embodiment;

[0041] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of an end wall including a first wall member movable between a closed position and an open position according to an embodiment; and

[0042] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an end wall including a first wall member movable between a closed position and an open position according to another embodiment;

[0043] FIG. 13A is a perspective view of an end wall of a package having a first wall member in an open position according to an embodiment; and

[0044] FIG. 13B is a perspective view of the end wall of FIG. 13 A having a first wall member in a closed position according to an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures.

[0046] With reference now to FIGS. 1-4, an exemplary container or package 20 for storing one or more products is illustrated. As shown, the package 20 includes a package housing 21 having a first housing member 22 and a second housing member 24. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the package 20, and therefore at least part of the first and second housing members 22, 24, has a heart shape. However, it should be understood that embodiments where the package 20 is any suitable shape, such as rectangular, square, circular, oval, or polygonal for example, are also contemplated herein.

[0047] With reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the first housing member 22 includes a body having a closed first end 26, an open second end 28, and one or more sidewalls 30 extending between the first end 26 and the second end 28 to define a hollow interior or first cavity 32 of the first housing member 22. One or more products may be received within the first internal cavity 32 (FIG. 4) of the first housing member 22. The closed first end 26 may be formed by an end wall 34. In an embodiment, such as where the first housing member 22 forms a bottom of the package 20, an outwardly facing surface 35 of the end wall 34 has a substantially planar configuration such that the end wall 34 is easily positionable on a support surface.

[0048] The at least one sidewall 30 may be permanently affixed to the end wall 34, or alternatively, may be integrally formed therewith. As shown, the at least one sidewall 30 extends at an angle from an interior surface 37 of the end wall 34. Although the at least one sidewall 30 is illustrated as being oriented substantially perpendicular to the end wall 34, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the at least one sidewall 30 is arranged at another angle relative to the end wall 34 are also within the scope of the disclosure. Further, the at least one sidewall 30 may extend about a substantial entirety of a periphery of the end wall 34, or alternatively, may have a configuration different from the shape of the end wall 34. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the at least one sidewall 30 is one continuous sidewall that extends about the entire periphery of the end wall 34. However, in other embodiments, the first housing member 22 may include only a single sidewall 30 that extendsabout a portion of the periphery of the end wall 34. Alternatively, the at least one sidewall 30 may be a plurality of sidewalls. The plurality of sidewalls 30 may be coupled to one another or each sidewall 30 may be separated from the remainder of the plurality of sidewalls. In embodiments including a plurality of sidewalls 30, the plurality of sidewalls, in combination, may be configured to extend about an entire periphery of the end wall 34 or about only a portion thereof.

[0049] As shown, in an embodiment, the one or more sidewalls 30 are offset from the outer edge 36 of the end wall 34 by a distance such that a flange 38 is defined between the sidewall 30 and the outer edge 36. As will be described in more detail below, part of the second housing member 24 may be aligned with this flange 38 when the package 20 is closed.

[0050] The second housing member 24 includes an open first end 40, a closed second end 42, and at least one sidewall 44 extending between the first end 40 and the second end 42. A second cavity 46 (see FIG. 4) may be defined by the closed end 42 and the at least one sidewall 44 in combination. The shape of the second cavity 46 may but need not be substantially identical to the shape of the first cavity 32. Similar to the first housing member 22, the closed second end 42 of the second housing member 24 may be formed by an end wall 48. In embodiments where the second housing member 24 forms a top or lid of the package 20, the end wall 48 of the second housing member 24 is the uppermost portion of the package 20. Further, an outwardly facing surface 50 of the end wall 48 is visible to a user, and therefore may have information about the contents of the package 20 printed or formed thereon.

[0051] The at least one sidewall 44 of the second housing member 24 may be permanently affixed to the end wall 48, or alternatively, may be integrally formed therewith. The at least one sidewall 44 extends at an angle from the end wall 48, such as perpendicular thereto for example. However, in other embodiments, the at least one sidewall 44 may be oriented at a non-perpendicular angle. The at least one sidewall 44 may extend about a substantial entirety of a periphery of the end wall 48 or may be arranged in another configuration. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the at least one sidewall 44 is a single continuous sidewall that extends about the entire periphery of the end wall 48. However, in other embodiments, the second housing member 24 may include a single sidewall 44 that extends about only a portion of the periphery of the end wall 48. Alternatively, the at least one sidewall 44 may be a plurality of sidewalls coupled to one another or each of the plurality of sidewalls 44 may be separated from at least one of theremainder of the plurality of sidewalls. In an embodiment including a plurality of sidewalls 44, the plurality of sidewalls, in combination, may extend about an entire periphery of the end wall 48 or about only a portion thereof.

[0052] In an embodiment, shown in FIG. 3A, the one or more sidewalls 44 of the second housing member 24 are offset from the exterior edge 52 of the end wall 48 by a distance such that a flange 54 is defined between the at least one sidewall 44 and the outer edge 52. This flange 54 may allow a user to easily grasp and manipulate the package 20, or the second housing member 24. However, in other embodiments, the at least one sidewall 44 may be formed at the outer edge 52 of the end wall 48.

[0053] The package 20 is transformable between an open configuration (FIG. 3A) and a closed configuration (FIGS. 1, 2, and 3B) to selectively access the first cavity 32 and / or the at least one product contained therein. In the open configuration, the second housing member 24 is moved away from the first housing member 22 making the first cavity 32 accessible by a consumer. In an embodiment, the second housing member 24 in its entirety is separated from the first housing member 22. However, in other embodiments, a portion of the first housing member 22 and the second housing member 24 may be coupled such that at least a portion of the first housing member 22 is connected to the second housing member 24 in both the open configuration and the closed configuration.

[0054] In the closed configuration, the first housing member 22 and the second housing member 24 are arranged such that the first cavity 32 is sealed to retain a product therein. In an embodiment, the second housing member 24 is positioned in vertically overlapping arrangement with the first housing member 22 when the package 20 is in the closed configuration.

[0055] In the closed configuration, the at least one sidewall 44 of the second housing member 24 is positioned generally adjacent to the at least one sidewall 30 of the first housing member 22. In an embodiment, shown in FIGS. 3A-4, the second cavity 46 is larger is larger than the first cavity 32 and the first cavity 32 is receivable within the second cavity 46 when the first and second housing member 22, 24 are vertically overlapped. In such embodiments, the at least one sidewall 44 of the second housing member 24 is arranged adjacent to an exterior surface 60 of the at least one sidewall 30 of the first housing member 22. For example, the at least one sidewall 44 of the second housing member 24 may be vertically aligned with the flange 38 defined between the sidewall 30 and the outer edge 36 of the end wall 34 of the first housing member 22. However, in other embodiments, the second cavity 46 may be smaller in size than the first cavity 32. Accordingly, the second cavity 46 may bereceivable within the first cavity 32 when the first and second housing member 22, 24 are vertically overlapped. In such embodiments, one or more of the sidewalls 44 of the second housing member 24 may be positioned adjacent to an internal surface 62 of a sidewall 30 of the first housing member 22.

[0056] Further, when the first and second housing members 22, 24 are in a vertically overlapping arrangement, the end wall 48 of the second housing member 24 may be positioned adjacent to the distal end of the at least one sidewall 30 of the first housing member 22, thereby sealing the first cavity 32. In some embodiments, the height of the at least one sidewall 44 of the second housing member 24 is substantially equal to the height of the at least one sidewall 30 of the first housing member 22. In such embodiments, an inwardly facing surface 51 of the end wall 48 of the second housing member 24 may abut the distal end of the at least one sidewall 30 of the first housing member 22. Similarly, the distal end of the at least one sidewall 44 of the second housing member 24 may abut the inwardly facing surface 37 of the end wall 34 of the first housing member 22.

[0057] In other embodiments, the height of one or more sidewalls 30 of the first housing member 22 may be different than the height of one or more sidewalls 44 of the second housing member 24. In embodiments where the height of the at least one sidewall 44 of the second housing member 24 is greater than the height of the at least one sidewall 30 of the first housing member 22, the end wall 48 of the second housing member 24 may be offset from the distal end of the at least one sidewall 30 of the first housing member 22. However, it should be understood that in such embodiments, the distance or clearance between the inwardly facing surface 51 of the end wall 48 of the second housing member 24 and the end of at least one sidewall 30 of the first housing member 22 is sized to restrict movement of a product from the first cavity 32.

[0058] To facilitate the overlapping arrangement of the first and second housing member 22, 24, it should be appreciated that that angle of the at least one sidewall 44 relative to the end wall 48 of the second housing member 24 may be generally complementary to the angle formed between the end wall 34 and the at least one sidewall 30 of the first housing member 22. In an embodiment, the relative angle between the at least one sidewall 30 and the end wall 34 of the first housing member 22 is equal to the relative angle between the at least one sidewall 44and the end wall 48 of the second housing member 24. However, embodiments where these angles are different, but allow for the overlapping arrangement of the first and second housing members 22, 24 are contemplated herein. For example, therelative angle of the sidewall positioned closest to the exterior of the package 20 may be greater than the relative angle of the sidewall arranged at the interior of the package 20.

[0059] With continued reference to FIG. 4, at least one product 70 may be receivable within the interior of the first cavity 32 of the first housing member 22. In an embodiment, the at least one product 70 is one or more consumable products, including but not limited to gum, candy, chocolates, and other comestibles or confections. However, embodiments where the at least one product 70 is a non-consumable product are also contemplated herein. In embodiments including a plurality of products 70 arranged within the first cavity 32, the plurality of products 70 may be substantially identical, or alternatively, may be different. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one divider (not shown) is arranged within the first cavity 32 to form a plurality of separate recesses or compartments within which one or more respective products are positionable.

[0060] The housing 21 of the package 20 may be formed from any suitable material. In an embodiment, at least one of the first housing member 22 and the second housing member 24 is formed from a rigid or semirigid packaging substrate selected from cardboard, paperboard, laminate, corrugated cardboard, plastic, or any mixture thereof. However, a package formed from other suitable packaging materials is also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0061] With continued reference to FIGS. 1-4 and further reference to FIGS. 5-12, in an embodiment, the end wall 48 of the second housing member 24 is formed from a substrate. The substrate includes at least one wall member, and in some embodiments includes a plurality of vertically stacked wall members, such as a first wall member 100 and a second wall member 102 for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 11, the first wall member 100 is located upwardly adjacent to the second wall member 102 and forms the uppermost surface of the end wall 48 and the package 20. In an embodiment, each of the first wall member 100 and the second wall member 102 is a respective layer of material of the substrate. Each of the plurality of wall members, for example the first wall member 100 and the second wall member 102 may traverse the entire end wall 48. However, embodiments where one of the plurality of wall members does not extend across the entire end wall 48 are also contemplated herein. The plurality of wall members 100, 102 may be formed from different materials, or alternatively, may be discrete layers formed from the same material. However, embodiments where the first wall member 100 and the second wall member 102 are formed from the same material and are not separate or discrete layers, such as shown in FIG. 12 for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0062] At least a portion of the first wall member 100 may be movable relative to the second wall member 102 of the end wall 48. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the first wall member 100 is transformable between a closed position and an open position. In some embodiments, the first wall member 100 includes a first portion 100a and a second portion 100b, and the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 is formed as a flap that is transformable between a closed position and an open position. In some embodiments, in the closed position (see FIGS. 1 and 5), the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 may be flush or substantially flush with the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100. However, in other embodiments, the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 may be offset, such as in a vertical direction, relative to the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100. In the open position, the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 may be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the second wall member 102. As will be described in more detail below, the first portion 100a may but need not remain attached to the second portion 100b of the first wall member when in the open position.

[0063] Although the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 is illustrated as being arranged at a center of the first wall member 100, embodiments where the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 is offset from the center or arranged at another location, such as closer to the outer edge 52 of the end wall 48 for example, are also contemplated herein. In an embodiment, the shape of the first portion 100a of the of the first wall member 100 is substantially identical to the shape of the package 20; however, embodiments where the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 has a shape different from that of the package 20 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0064] Directly after manufacturing, the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 is integral with the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100. A portion of the outer periphery of the first portion 100a may be initially connected to the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 via at least one line of weakness. In an embodiment, the at least one line of weakness may employ a perforation pattern, such as conducive to application of a pulling force to the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 as will be described in more detail below. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the line of weakness arranged between the first portion 100a and the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 extends through only the first wall member 100. However, in embodiments where the end wall 48 includes more than two wall members stacked vertically, the line of weakness may extend through only the first wall member, or alternatively, through multiple wall members. The perforation may extend through any number of wall members except for the lowermostwall member of the vertical stack. For example, in embodiments including a first wall member, a second wall member, a third wall member, and a fourth wall member, the line of weakness may extend through only the first wall member, through the first and second wall member, or through the first, second, and third wall member.

[0065] As described herein, the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 is separable from the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 along the at least one line of weakness by applying a pressure to the end wall 48 at or near the line of weakness. However, the one or more lines of weakness may extend about only part of the periphery and not about the entirety thereof such that the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 remains connected to the package 20. In an embodiment, the part of the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 that remains connected to the adjacent second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 of the end wall 48, also referred to herein as a connected part, is represented by reference number 106 in the FIGS. This connected part 106 defines a hinge axis X about which the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 is pivotable, such as out of the plane of the outer surface 50 for example. In an embodiment, the part 106 of the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 that remains connected to the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 has a linear configuration.

[0066] Upon separation of the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 along its at least one line of weakness from the adjacent second portion 100b of the first wall member 100, the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 can be rotated about the pivot axis X away from the plane of the outer surface 50 to the open position. Accordingly, the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 remains connected to the package 20, such as to the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 in both the closed and the open positions.

[0067] However, in other embodiments, the line of weakness extends about an entire periphery of the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100. In such embodiments, the entirety of the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 is separated from the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 when in the open position. Alternatively, the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 may be completely separated from the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 in both the closed position and the open position. In such embodiments, the first portion 100a may be retained in the closed position via a mechanical or chemical connection with at least one of the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 and the second wall member 102. For example, an adhesive label 118 may extend over a part of the first portion 100a and the second portion 100b to selectively retainthe first portion 100a in the closed position, at least initially. However, it should be understood that such an adhesive label 118 may be positioned over the first portion 100a and the second portion 100b when the first portion 100a is separated from the second portion 100b by a line of weakness extending about the entirety or only a portion of the first portion 100a, as shown in FIG. 6.

[0068] When the first portion 100a of the first wall member 10, is transformed to the open position, an opening 108 is formed in the first wall member 100. A second wall surface 112 of the second wall member 102 is positioned adjacent to the first wall member 100. Accordingly, the second wall surface 112 may be visible at an exterior of the package 20 via the opening 108. The exposed second wall surface 112 may not have any markings preprinted thereon. For example, the surface 112 may be free of one or more colors, images, and / or writing. Alternatively, the exposed second wall surface 112 of the second wall member 102 may have at least one marking pre-printed thereon, such as a pre-printed message, image, and / or other marking formed thereon. When the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 is in the open position, a user may form one or more markings, such as a message or drawing for example, on the exposed second wall surface 112 of the second wall member 102. The markings formed by a user and / or the pre-printed markings may then be hidden from view by returning the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 to the closed position. In an embodiment, an additional component 120 (see FIG. 9) may be arranged within the opening 108. For example, the component may be a device to make noise, such as play music, or pop-up art for example. This component 120 may be arranged on top of the surface 112 of the second wall member 102, and in some embodiments, may be operably coupled to the first portion 100a. The additional component 120 arranged within the opening 108 may be activated in response to transforming the first portion 100a from the closed position to the open position. In some embodiments where such an additional component 120 is present within the opening 108, the first portion 100a may be offset from the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 when in the closed position to create additional space to accommodate the additional component 120.

[0069] With continued reference to FIG. 5-10, in an embodiment, a notch or cutout 140 is formed adjacent to the outer periphery of the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100. This notch 140 may be formed in either the first portion 100a or the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 and may be located at a portion of the outer periphery of the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 that is perforated relative to the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100. The notch or cutout 140 may be sizedto receive a user’s fingertip, thereby providing an area for a user to engage and apply a force to separate the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 from the package 20 about the perforation. As previously noted, in other embodiments an adhesive label 118 may be used to affix the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 to the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100. In such embodiments, the label 118 may be used alternatively to, or in addition to the notch 140, to facilitate separation of the first portion 100a from the second portion 100b.

[0070] In some embodiments, a fold axis Y may be formed in the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 near the notch 140 and an engagement portion, such as an engagement flap 142 for example, may be defined between the fold axis Y and the periphery of the first portion 100a including the notch 140. In such embodiments, application of an initial force to the engagement flap 142 by the user, via the notch 140, causes the engagement flap 142 to separate from the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100 about its perforated periphery and to bend about the fold axis Y. A user may then grasp the folded engagement flap 142 to manipulate the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 between the open and closed position. Inclusion of an engagement flap 142 may provide a user with an area of the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 that is easier to grasp and apply a force to than the notch 140 itself.

[0071] The movable portion of the first wall member 100 may be resealable relative to second wall member 102 of the end wall 48 and therefore is repeatedly transformable between the closed and open positions. The first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 may be retained in the closed position, such as after the perforated interface between the first portion 100a and the second portion 100b has been broken for example, using any suitable mechanism. For example, an adhesive may be disposed at an interface between the first portion 100a and the second wall surface 112 of the second wall member 102 located underneath the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100. In such embodiments, the adhesive material may be affixed to the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100, such as to the engagement flap 142 for example, to the second wall surface 112 of the second wall member 102, or to both. In an embodiment, the outer periphery of the first portion 100a may form an interference fit with the adjacent surface of the opening 108 of the end wall 48, thereby limiting unintended movement of the first portion 100a of relative to the remainder of the end wall 48.

[0072] In an embodiment, the engagement flap 142 is removably connectable to a portion of the end wall 48 to selectively retain the movable portion of the first wall member100 in the closed position. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, a portion of the engagement flap 142 may be configured to cooperate with an opening or recess 150 formed in the second wall member at a location vertically underneath the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100. However, in other embodiments, a portion of the engagement flap 142 may be engaged with an opening or recess formed in the outer surface 50 of the second portion 100b of the first wall member 100, such as adjacent to the opening 108 formed by the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the engagement flap 142 includes a protrusion 144 disposed opposite the notch 140 about the fold axis Y. Further, a periphery of the protrusion 144 may be perforated relative to the remainder of the first portion 100a. Accordingly, when the engagement flap 142 is rotated about the fold axis Y, the protrusion 144 may separate from the remainder of the first portion 100a. As the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 is rotated about the pivot axis X toward the closed position, the engagement flap 142 may be manipulated about the pivot axis X to position the protrusion 144 within the recess 150. Receipt of the protrusion 144 within the recess 150, and the resulting engagement between the protrusion 144 and the second wall member 102 of the end wall 48 adjacent to the recess 150 limits movement of the engagement flap 142, and therefore the first portion 100a of the first wall member 100 relative to the end wall 48.

[0073] Although the end wall 48 is illustrated and described herein with reference to FIGS. 5-10 as having a first wall member including a first portion 100a and a second portion 100b, in other embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the first wall member 100 may include only a single portion. In such embodiments, the first wall member 100 may be similarly movable relative to the second wall member 102 of the end wall 48. For example, the first wall member 100 may be pivotable between a closed position and an open position, and the second wall surface 112 of the second wall member 102 may be exposed when the first wall member 100 is in the open position. In the closed position, the first wall member 100 may be oriented substantially parallel to the second wall member 102 and in the open position, the first wall member 100 may be arranged at a non-parallel angle relative to the second wall member 102. Similar to the previous embodiment, the interface between the first wall member 100 and the second wall member 102 may include one or more perforated or scored lines about which the first wall member 100 may be separated from the second wall member 102. However, part of the first wall member 100, represented by reference numeral 106 may remain connected to the second wall member 102 to define an axis X about which the first wall member 100 is rotatable relative to the second wall member 102.

[0074] In such embodiments, at least a portion of the second wall member 102 is exposed when the first wall member 100 is in the open position. Accordingly, when the first wall member 100 is in the open position, a user may form one or more markings, such as a message or drawing for example, on the exposed second wall surface 112. The markings formed by a user and / or the pre-printed markings may then be hidden from view by returning the first wall member 100 to the closed position. The first wall member 100 may be resealable relative to the second wall member 102. As described in the previous embodiment, adhesive may be used to selectively couple the first wall member 100 to the second wall member 102 after a line of weakness at an interface therebetween is broken. Alternatively, or in addition, the first wall member 100 may include an engagement flap 142 configured to cooperate with an opening or recess 150 formed in the second wall member 102, such as at a location vertically underneath the first wall member 100, or another portion of the end wall 48. As shown, the engagement flap 142 includes a protrusion 144 disposed an a location offset from an edge of the first wall member 100 and a periphery of the protrusion 144 may be perforated relative to the remainder of the first wall member 100. Accordingly, when the engagement flap 142 is rotated about the fold axis Y, the protrusion 144 separates from the adjacent surface of the first wall member 100. As the first wall member 100 rotates about the pivot axis X toward the closed position, the engagement flap 142 may be manipulated about the pivot axis X to position the protrusion 144 within the recess 150. Receipt of the protrusion 144 within the recess 150, and the resulting engagement between the protrusion 144 and the second wall member 102 of the end wall 48 adjacent to the recess 150 limits movement of the engagement flap 142, and therefore the first wall member 100 relative to the end wall 48.

[0075] A package 20 as illustrated and described herein allows a purchaser to write a secret message on the second wall surface 112 of the end wall 48 underneath the first wall member 100. The package 20 may then be given to a recipient with the message initially hidden from view.

[0076] The term “about” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application.

[0077] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms“comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and / or groups thereof.

[0078] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment or embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A package for holding a product, the package including: a package housing having: an internal cavity; an end wall positionable to selectively contain the product in the internal cavity, the end wall including a first wall member and a second wall member, at least part of the first wall member being movable relative to the second wall member between a closed position and an open position; and wherein a second wall surface of the second wall member is positioned to face the first wall member, and at least a portion of the second wall surface is exposed when the first wall member is in the open position.

2. The package of claim 1, wherein the first wall member includes a first portion and a second portion, and the at least part of the first wall member that is movable relative to the second wall member includes the first portion.

3. The package of claim 2, wherein the first portion of the first wall member is a flap, the flap being arranged at a center of the first wall member.

4. The package of claim 2, wherein the first portion of the first wall member is a flap, the flap being offset from a center of the end wall.

5. The package of claim 2, wherein the end wall has a first shape and the first portion of the first wall member has a second shape, the first shape being the same as the second shape.

6. The package of claim 2, wherein the end wall has a first shape and the first portion of the first wall member has a second shape, the first shape being different from the second shape.

7. The package of claim 2, wherein in the closed position, the first portion of the first wall member is flush with the second portion of the first wall member.

8. The package of claim 2, wherein in the closed position, the first portion of the first wall member is vertically offset from the second portion of the first wall member.

9. The package of claim 2, wherein the first portion of the first wall member is separable from the second portion of the first wall member along at least one line of weakness.

10. The package of claim 9, wherein the at least one line of weakness extends about only some of a periphery of the portion of the first wall member.

11. The package of claim 1, wherein the at least part of the first wall member movable relative to the second wall member is connected to the second wall member at a connected part in both the closed position and the open position.

12. The package of claim 11, wherein the connected part defines a hinge axis about which the portion of the first wall member is rotatable relative to the second wall member.

13. The package of claim 11, wherein the connected part of the first wall member has a linear configuration.

14. The package of claim 1, wherein an opening is formed at an outer surface of the end wall when the at least part of the first wall member is in the open position, the second wall surface being visible via the opening.

15. The package of claim 14, wherein the second wall surface does not have any markings pre-printed thereon.

16. The package of claim 14, wherein the second wall surface has at least one marking pre-printed thereon.

17. The package of claim 14, further comprising an additional component arranged within the opening between the part of the first wall member movable relative to the second wall member and the second wall surface, the additional component being operably coupled to the part of the first wall member.

18. The package of claim 1, further comprising a mechanism for retaining the at least part of the first wall member in the closed position.

19. The package of claim 18, wherein the mechanism includes an adhesive.

20. The package of claim 18, wherein an engagement portion of the first wall member is engageable with a recess formed in the end wall.

21. The package of claim 20, wherein the recess is formed in the second wall surface of the second wall member.

22. The package of claim 20, wherein the engagement portion of the first wall member includes an engagement flap having a protrusion, the protrusion being receivable with the recess.

23. The package of claim 1, further comprising a notch formed in the end wall and associated with the part of the first wall member movable relative to the second wall member.

24. The package of claim 1, wherein both the first wall member and the second wall member traverse the end wall.

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