Abstract
A publication and product delivery package is disclosed which permits a variety of products to be packaged and displayed along the binding (or “spine”) of a publication, such as a magazine, or an object of similar size, or in other places alongside such a publication, and delivered to a purchaser of that publication in an attractive, efficient, cost effective way, utilizing standard delivery services such as the United States Postal Service. The publication package allows delivery of products which are otherwise loose, liquid, or fragile to arrive intact, despite the stresses and impacts of such packaging, display, and delivery. The publication package also allows additional high-impact and memorable marketing text and images, which providing exposure of product names and graphics, and coordinated text and images.
Claims
1. A publication package comprising: an outer package container formed to create a hollow space and having at least one open end, a length and a width; a drawer, wherein the drawer is configured to be inserted into the hollow space of the outer package container, the drawer comprising a roof wall, a bottom wall, a rear wall, a front wall, and two side walls; a backing formed of a material rigid enough to resist folding, wherein the backing is attached to the outer package container, and is parallel to the bottom wall of the drawer and a covering means that encloses the outer package container, the drawer, and the backing.
2. The publication package of claim 1, wherein the drawer comprises at least one inner package container located within the drawer.
3. The publication package of claim 1, wherein the front wall of the drawer blocks the at least one open end of the outer package container when the drawer is inserted in the outer package container.
4. The publication package of claim 1, wherein the drawer includes an insert to prevent shifting of a position of an inner package container within the drawer.
5. The publication package of claim 1, wherein the hollow space extends through the outer package container in a first direction.
6. The publication package of claim 5, wherein the backing extends away from the outer package in a second direction, wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.
7. The publication package of claim 1, further comprising a publication having a length and a width, a front cover and a back cover, wherein the back cover is positioned against the backing, wherein a length of the publication corresponds to a length of the outer package.
8. The publication package of claim 2, further comprising a strip extending along the drawer in the first direction, wherein the strip is removable.
9. The publication package of claim 8, wherein the strip includes an opening corresponding to a placement of an inner package container in the drawer.
10. The publication package of claim 2, wherein the outer package container comprises at least one window.
11. The publication package of claim 10, wherein at least one inner package container positioned within the drawer aligns with a least one window in the outer package container, when the entire drawer is inside the outer package container.
12. The publication package of claim 1, wherein the drawer is formed of a transparent plastic material.
13. The publication package of claim 1, further comprising a closure means closing at least one open end of the outer package container.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
(1) The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention, and such drawings, together with the description set forth herein, serve to explain the principles of the invention.
(2) FIG. 1 is a perspective view drawing of a first preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the front cover, with publication package poly-bagwrap covering means.
(3) FIG. 2 is a perspective view drawing of a first preferred embodiment of the publication package appearing in FIG. 1, viewed from the publication front cover and page edge sides.
(4) FIG. 3 is a perspective view closeup drawing of the first preferred embodiment of the publication package appearing in FIG. 1, viewed from the front cover and outer package container top end, with outer package container closure means in the form of a plug fitted within the end of the outer package container.
(5) FIG. 4 is a perspective view drawing of the first preferred embodiment of the publication package appearing in FIG. 1, viewed from the front cover side, in which the outer package container, with attached backing, has been partially separated from the selected publication.
(6) FIG. 5 is a perspective view drawing of the first preferred embodiment of the publication package appearing in FIG. 1, viewed from the front, in which the outer package container, with attached backing, has been fully separated from the selected publication.
(7) FIG. 6 is a perspective view drawing of the first preferred embodiment of the publication package appearing in FIG. 1, viewed from the back cover side, in which the outer package container, with attached backing, has been fully separated from the selected publication.
(8) FIG. 7 is a perspective view drawing of the first preferred embodiment of the publication package appearing in FIG. 1, viewed from the front cover side, in which the closure means of the outer package container has been removed from the top end of the outer package container, and one inner package container has been removed from the same top end of the outer package container.
(9) FIG. 8 is a perspective view drawing of three inner package containers of the first preferred embodiment of the publication package appearing in FIG. 1, after the closure means of the outer package container and all inner package containers have been removed from the now open end of the outer package container, and all inner package containers are in condition for use.
(10) FIG. 9 is a perspective view drawing of a second preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the publication front cover and outer package container bottom end, with cut-out windows under which products are aligned.
(11) FIG. 10 is a perspective view drawing of a third preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the publication front cover and outer package container bottom end, with products inserted into open ends of outer package container with cut-out windows under which products are aligned.
(12) FIG. 11 is a perspective view drawing of a fourth preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the publication front cover and outer package container bottom end and drawer bottom end with six walls in open position, which contains products that align with windows when drawer is in closed position.
(13) FIG. 12 is a perspective view drawing of a fifth preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the publication front cover and outer package container bottom end and drawer bottom end with six walls in open position, with products placed on a vertical strip displaying advertising text and materials.
(14) FIG. 13 is a perspective view drawing of a sixth preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the publication front cover and outer package container bottom end, with rigid insert inserted inside outer package container.
(15) FIG. 14 is a perspective view drawing of a seventh preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the publication front cover and outer package container bottom end, with perpendicular slit formed near bottom end of outer package container.
(16) FIG. 15A is a perspective view drawing of a eighth preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the publication front cover and outer package container bottom end, with outer package container positioned against inner spine side of double card.
(17) FIG. 15B is another perspective view drawing of the eighth preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the inside of an open double card, with outer package container positioned against inner spine side of double card.
(18) FIG. 16A is a perspective view drawing of a ninth preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the publication front cover and outer package container bottom end, with outer package containers positioned against vertical ends of bottom cover of sleeve.
(19) FIG. 16B is another perspective view drawing of the ninth preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the inside of an open sleeve, with outer package containers positioned against vertical ends of bottom cover of sleeve.
(20) FIG. 17 is a perspective view drawing of a tenth preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the publication front cover and outer package container bottom end, with a transparent, sample bag containing a sample and advertising card.
(21) FIG. 18 is a perspective view drawing of a eleventh preferred embodiment of the publication package of the present invention, viewed from the publication front cover and outer package container bottom end, with a sample pod containing a liquid-holding sample attached to the backing of the publication package.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT
First Preferred Embodiment
(22) Referring initially to FIG. 1, a first embodiment of publication package 10 of the present invention is shown in perspective, as it has been wrapped in plastic shrink-wrap covering means 11. In FIG. 1, various components of publication package 10 may be viewed through shrink-wrap covering means 11, however those components may not generally be accessed until such time as shrink-wrap covering means 11 is removed from publication package 10. Upon removal of shrink-wrap covering means 11, the consumer may separate the components of publication package 10, and also access the products to be delivered. Until delivery to the consumer is complete, all components are contained within, and protected from dirt and weather by, shrink-wrap covering means 11. In this configuration, publication package 10 may be handled by distributors just as any other publication may be handled, and stacked for storage. In this configuration, shrink-wrap covering means 11 also hold components of publication package 10 together, and in proper “register” one to the other, so that individual copies of the chosen publication may be stacked, and handled just as any other publication, shifting components of publication package 10 within shrink-wrap covering means 11, or adversely affecting their condition. However, even as shrink-wrap covering means 11 protects the contents of publication package 10, and before shrink-wrap covering means 11 is removed, the title of the chosen publication, all of the front cover of that publication, and most other components of publication package 10 contained within shrink-wrap covering means 11 are viewable by distributors and consumers.
(23) Turning now to FIG. 2, a first embodiment of publication package 10 of the present invention is shown in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. Thus, publication package 10 may now be appreciated in its condition after deliver to a consumer, and after shrink-30 wrap 11 has been removed. In FIG. 2, publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side. Selected publication 20 page opening edge 22 may be seen, along with edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. In this case, selected publication 20 is a magazine, however publication package 10 may be utilized to distribute products by accompanying a variety of publications. Outer package container 30 of publication package 10 may also be seen, formed in a regular, tubular shape, with outer package container 30 top end 31 and outer package container 30 bottom end 32. In FIG. 2, a first generally flat side (not shown) of outer package container 30 is positioned against spine edge 24 of selected publication 20. A second generally flat side 34 (shown in FIG. 3) of outer package container 30 is affixed to publication package 10 backing 40 (not fully shown), and backing 40 is positioned against the back cover 25 of selected publication 20. Outer package container 30 is formed of clear plastic in this embodiment, and three (in this embodiment) ipcs, inner package container 50, inner package container 51, and inner package container 52, may be seen through the plastic of outer package container 30. Inner package containers 50 through 52 are positioned snugly within outer package container 30 in such a way that graphics, which may appear on the exterior sides of inner package containers 50 through 52 may be viewed through the clear plastic of outer package container 30. In FIG. 2, we may not see outer package container 30 closure means, however, outer package container closure means resides within or around outer package container 30 top end 31, to close outer package container 30 top end 31 once inner package container 50 through inner package container 52 have been placed within outer package container 30.
(24) In FIG. 3, only a portion of the first embodiment of publication package 10 of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 appears in perspective, again without shrink-wrap covering means for clarity. That portion of publication package 10 which appears in FIG. 3 is outer package container 30, end-on, from outer package container 30 top end 31. Again in FIG. 3, publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side. Again, the edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20 may be seen, and again outer package container 30 of publication package 10 may be seen formed in a regular, tubular shape, with outer package container 30 top end 31 and outer package container 30 bottom end 32. Thus, FIG. 3 shows a portion of publication package 10 as it resides within shrink-wrap 11, and as it appear to a publication purchaser if she removed shrink-wrap 11 from publication package 10, and rotated outer package container 30 and selected publication 20 together to view outer package container 30 from outer package container top end 31. In FIG. 3, first generally flat side 33 of outer package container 30 may be seen positioned against spine edge 24 of selected publication 20. Second generally flat side (not shown) of outer package container 30 is affixed to publication package 10 backing 40, and backing 40 is positioned against back cover 25 of selected publication 20. While outer package container 30 is formed of clear plastic in this embodiment, inner package container 50 through 52 are omitted from FIG. 3 for clarity, along with the shrink-wrap covering means. However, in the normal course inner package container 50 through 52 (in this embodiment; additional inner package containers may be used in other embodiments) reside within outer package container 30 when the publication is in transit, being delivered to a consumer or subscriber in shrink-wrap 11. We may also see outer package container 30 closure means 35 (in this case a plug), fitted snugly within outer package container 30 top end 31, thereby closing outer package container 30 top end 31 with inner package containers 50 through 52 (not shown) residing within outer package container 30.
(25) In FIG. 4, the first embodiment of publication package 10 of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 appears again in perspective, again without shrink-wrap covering means, which has been removed by the consumer. In FIG. 4, selected publication 20 is no longer attached to outer package container 30 of publication package 10, and selected publication 20 has been separated from outer package container 30 by pulling spine edge 24 of selected publication 20 away from first generally flat side 33 of outer package container 30. Again we may see in FIG. 4 selected publication 20 front cover 21, selected publication 20 page opening edge 22, and edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. Again outer package container 30 is seen as a regular, tubular shape, with outer package container 30 top end 31 and outer package container 30 bottom end 32. Since selected publication 20 has been separated from outer package container 30, we may see in FIG. 4 first generally flat side 33 of outer package container 30 is no longer positioned against spine edge 24 of selected publication 20, and second generally flat side (not shown) of outer package container 30 affixed to backing 40.
(26) Of particular importance in FIG. 4, as backing 40 is no longer positioned against the back cover of selected publication 20, we may for the first time see text and graphics (collectively the “Front Indicia”) arrayed on the front side 41 of backing 40. The Front Indicia is broken into sections over the area of front side 41 in this embodiment in such a way as to enhance the marketing impact for consumers who purchase selected publication 20. This is accomplished through (I) the choice of materials from which backing 40 is formed, and through (ii) coordination of Indicia appearing on front side 41 with similar text and graphics on the exterior of inner package container 50 through 52, as viewed by a consumer through the clear plastic from which outer package container 30 is formed. Thus, and referring specifically to the choice of materials, backing 40 may be formed of high quality material, most suitable for printing high quality images and texts as Front Indicia, in ways which create exceptional, one-of-a-kind advertising impact. Such materials include cardstock of various thickness and finish, but such materials may also include clear and opaque plastic of suitable rigidity, or even of metal, and slick plastic or metallic finishes. So long as these materials and finishes are chosen for their suitability of high-quality printing, or their transparency in the case of partial printing of a page, the Front Indicia may be of arbitrarily high quality, and resultant attractiveness.
(27) As to the coordination of Indicia appearing on front side 41 of backing 40, the Front Indicia may be broken into sections on backing 40, and those sections coordinated with similar text and graphics on the exterior of inner package container 50, inner package container 51 and inner package container 52, as viewed by a consumer through the clear plastic from which outer package container 30 is formed, or when viewed by a consumer when outer package container 30 and backing 40 are separated from selected publication 20. More specifically, when outer package container 30 and backing 40 are first separated from selected publication 20, a consumer or subscriber is exposed to Front Indicia on front 41 of backing 40, much as she would be exposed to front 21 of selected publication 20 (and often at the same time). This allows the Indicia on front 41 of backing 40 to lead the consumer's eyes from Front Indicia on front 41 naturally to outer package container 30 and, because inner package container 50 through 52 may be viewed through the clear plastic of outer package container 30, to the similar indicia on the exterior surfaces of inner package container 50, inner package container 51, and inner package container 52. The Front Indicia on front 41 of backing 40 may be coordinated with the similar inner package container indicia on the exterior surfaces of inner package container 50 through 52, using similarity in colors and line, and using consistent trademark presentation, through similar or complimentary “look and feel,” and by other means.
(28) In this preferred embodiment of the publication package 10 of 30 the present invention, for example, backing 40 Front Indicia appearing in FIG. 4 is broken into sections “a-1” and “b-1” and “c-1,” with the borders of these sections running horizontally from outer package container 30 to backing 40 edge most distant from outer package container 30 when outer package container 30 is affixed to backing 40 during manufacture. The width of sections “a-1” through “c-1” in this embodiment as these sections run across the width of backing 40 (for clarity, only section “a” is marked in FIG. 4) may be printed to correspond to the length of each of inner package container 50 and inner package container 51 and inner package container 52 contained in outer package container 30, and the Front Indicia on front 41 of backing 40 may correspond to the same or similar text and images which have been printed on the exterior of inner package container 50 and inner package container 51 and inner package container 52, along their length at sections “a-2” and “b-2” and “c-2” (for clarity, only section “a-2” marked in FIG. 4). Accordingly, when selected publication 20 is separated from outer package container 30, and pulled away from front 41 of backing 40, the eye of the consumer may be attracted to the high impact images of the Front Indicia on front 41 of backing 40, and that eye may linger over such Front Indicia, and induce that consumer to open outer package container 30, remove inner package container 50 and inner package container 51 and inner package container 52 containing product samples, and try each of the product samples contained in inner package container 50 and inner package container 51 and inner package container 52.
(29) In FIG. 5, the first embodiment of publication package 10 of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 appears again in perspective, again without shrink-wrap covering means and, in FIG. 5, also without selected publication 20. Again outer package container 30 is seen as a regular, tubular shape, with outer package container 30 top end 31 and outer package container 30 bottom end 32. In FIG. 5, we may again see the Front Indicia arrayed on front side 41 of backing 40, and again the Front Indicia is broken into sections over the area of front side 41 in such a way as to enhance the marketing impact for consumers who purchase selected publication 20. Focusing specifically on the coordination of Front Indicia appearing on front side 41 of backing 40, the Front Indicia of FIG. 5 is broken into three sections on backing 40, and those sections are coordinated with similar text and graphics on the exterior of inner package container 50 and inner package container 51 and inner package container 52. In this preferred embodiment of the publication package 10 of the present invention, backing 40 Front Indicia is broken into three sections “a-1” and “b-1” and “c-1,” with the borders of these sections running horizontally from outer package container 30 to backing 40 edge most distant from outer package container 30 when outer package container 30 is affixed to backing 40 during manufacture. The width of sections “a-1” through “c-1” in this embodiment are now printed to correspond to the length of each corresponding inner package container 50 and inner package container 51 and inner package container 52, each of which are still contained within outer package container 30. Also, the Front Indicia on front 41 of backing 40 corresponds to the same or similar text and images which have been printed on the exterior of inner package container 50 through 52 along their length. Thus the width of section a-1 corresponds with the length of inner package container 50 within section a-2 of outer package container 30, the width of section b-1 corresponds with the length of inner package container 51 within section b-2 of outer package container 30, and the width of section c-1 corresponds with the length of inner package container 52 within section c-2 of outer package container 30.
(30) In FIG. 6, the first embodiment of publication package 10 of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 appears again in perspective, again without shrink-wrap covering means, which has been removed by the consumer. Again, publication package 10 is also shown without selected publication 20. FIG. 6 again shows outer package container 30 as a regular, tubular shape, with outer package container 30 top end 31 and outer package container 30 bottom end 32. In FIG. 6, however, we may now see the Back Indicia, which is arrayed on the back side 42 of backing 40, and again the Back Indicia is broken into sections over the area of back side 42 in such a way as to enhance the marketing impact for consumers who purchase selected publication 20. Focusing specifically on the coordination of Back Indicia appearing on back side 42 of backing 40, the Back Indicia of FIG. 6 is again broken into three sections on backing 40, and those sections are again coordinated with similar text and graphics on the exterior of each of inner package container 50, inner package container 51 and inner package container 52, as viewed by a consumer through the clear plastic from which outer package container 30 is formed. In this preferred embodiment of the publication package 10 of the present invention, backing 40 Back Indicia is again broken into three sections “a-3” and “b-3” and “c-3,” with the borders of these sections running horizontally from outer package container 30 to backing 40 edge most distant from outer package container 30 when outer package container 30 is affixed to backing 40 during manufacture. The width of sections “a-3” through “c-3” in this embodiment are now again printed to correspond to the length of each of three inner package containers 50 through 52 contained in outer package container 30 in this embodiment. Also, the Back Indicia of back 42 of backing 40 correspond to the same or similar text and images which have been printed on the exterior of inner package container 50 and inner package container 51 and inner package container 52 along their length at sections “a-2” and “b-2” and “c-2.”
(31) In FIG. 7, a portion of the first embodiment of the publication package 10 of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 appears again in perspective, again without shrink-wrap which has been removed by the consumer. Outer package container 30 is again seen as a regular, tubular shape, however only outer package container 30 top end 31 appears in FIG. 7, along with some of the length of outer package container 30, and portions of sections “a-1” and “b-1” of backing 40. For clarity, the Front Indicia shown in FIG. 5 has been removed from FIG. 7. Also inner package container 50, which may be viewed by a consumer through the clear plastic of outer package container 30 up until this point, has now been removed from outer package container 30, and is ready to be used by a consumer. In this particular example, inner package container 50 is a fragrance applicator, with spray top, by which the consumer may deploy the fragrance. Inner package container 50 can be removed from outer package container 30 by simply turning the top end 31 of outer package container 30 downward, and allowing inner package container 50 to slide out of outer package container 30. In a similar way, inner package container 51 and inner package container 52 may be removed from outer package container 30 after first removing inner package container 50. Once inner package container 50 and inner package container 51 and inner package container 52 have each been removed from outer package container 30, all inner package containers are then available for use by the consumer as seen in FIG. 8. Of course, the number of inner package containers which may be contained in outer package container 30 is limited only by the length of each inner package container, and by the length of outer package container. Accordingly, a publisher or manufacturer may place a single inner package container within outer package container 30 for delivery to a consumer, or dozens of inner package containers may be placed within outer package container 30 for delivery.
Second Preferred Embodiment
(32) In FIG. 9, a second preferred embodiment of the present invention shows outer package container 65 which may be formed to contain one or more cut-out windows 90-92 (or “windows”) under which products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers are visibly aligned, so that consumers wishing to purchase selected publication 20 or one of inner package containers 50-52 contained within outer package container 65 may view its contents. Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. 9, publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side with back cover 25 (not fully shown). Selected publication 20 page opening edge 22 may be seen, along with edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. In this case, selected publication 20 is a magazine, however publication package 10 may be utilized to distribute products by accompanying a variety of publications.
(33) Of particular importance in FIG. 9, outer package container 65 contains one or more cut-out windows 90-92 (or “windows”) under which products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers are visibly aligned, so that consumers wishing to purchase selected publication 20 or one of inner package containers 50-52 contained within outer package container 65 may view its contents. This embodiment recognizes the desirability of providing a facility for consumers to view the actual products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers, before purchase through its unique alignment under windows 90-92. Instead of asking consumers to imagine the actual appearance of the products when outer package containers have no windows, the use of windows 90-92 in outer package container 65 allows consumers to view the actual products inside outer package container 65. The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions windows 90-92 to be generally rectangular in shape. Outer package container 65 with windows 90-92 may be circular or generally rectangular (or generally square) or any other shape, so long as the consumers may view the contents within outer package container 65. Windows 90-92 can be cut out on top panel 93, side panels, or bottom panels, including the corners of outer package container 65. The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions outer package container 65 to be made from lightweight cardstock because it is rigid yet modifiable enough so that windows 90-92 can be cut out from the material of outer package container 65. However, the material from which outer package container 65 is made should be resilient enough, and durable enough, to withstand some rough treatment when selected publication 20 is injected into the hands of standard delivery services, such as the United States Postal Service. The products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers, may be seen through open windows 90-92, and even inserted through open windows 90-92, and products and containers may also be taken out of outer package container 65 through its windows 90-92 when the consumer opens publication package 10. The products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers, may attach to inside 94 of outer package container 65 through an adhesive like glue. Open windows 90-92 may remain open without any covering, or windows 90-92 may remain covered with a transparent material such as plastic (not shown). Outer package container 65 may be left open at each end 74-75 in some embodiments, and closed by suitable closure means at each end 74-75 after filling. Outer package container 65 can be supplied with an outer package closure, or formed with a closure (not shown), which may be fitted over remaining open end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65 after the products or inner package containers 50-52 containing the products (not shown) are inserted into outer package container 65. A simple means for closure is a plug (not shown), which may be fitted within end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65, or a cap (not shown) which may be fitted over end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65. Another closure consists of at least one generally flat flap (not shown) on ends 74 or 75 (top and bottom) of outer package container 65, which flap seals the contents securely inside outer package container 65 when the top and bottom flaps are folded inwardly. However, closures may be as simple as perpendicular slits (not shown) formed in the materials of outer package container 65 near its ends 74 or 75, which allow folding of the material of the ends of outer package container 65 into its interior, to hold in place the inner package containers 50-52 to prevent shifting of the containers or products during transit.
Third Preferred Embodiment
(34) In FIG. 10, a third preferred embodiment of the present invention shows outer package container 65 in which samples or inner package containers 50-52 may be inserted into open ends 74-75 of outer package container 65 to align with their respective cut-out windows 90-82. Outer package container 65 may be formed to contain one or more cut-out windows 90-92 (or “windows”) under which products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers are visibly aligned, so that consumers wishing to purchase selected publication 20 or one of inner package containers 50-52 contained within outer package container 65 may view its contents. Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. 10, publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side with back cover 25 (not fully shown). Selected publication 20 page opening edge 22 may be seen, along with edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. In this case, selected publication 20 is a magazine, however publication package 10 may be utilized to distribute products by accompanying a variety of publications. Outer package container 65 is affixed to publication package 10 backing 40 (not fully shown), and backing 40 is positioned against the back cover 25 of selected publication 20.
(35) Of particular importance in FIG. 10, outer package container 65 may be formed such that samples or inner package containers 50-52 may be inserted into open ends 74-75 of outer package container 65 to align with their respective cut-out windows 90-92. In this embodiment, windows 90-92 under which products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers are placed are visibly aligned, so that consumers wishing to purchase selected publication 20 or one of inner package containers 50-52 contained within outer package container 65 may view its contents. From the assembly standpoint, manufacturers can efficiently and quickly insert inner package containers 50-52 into open ends 74-75 of outer package container 65 instead of placing each individual sample or inner package containers 50, 51, or 52 into its respective window 90, 91, or 92. This embodiment recognizes the desirability of providing a facility for consumers to view the actual products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers, before purchase through its unique alignment under windows 90-92. Instead of asking consumers to imagine the actual appearance of the products when outer package containers have no windows, the use of windows 90-92 in outer package container 65 allows consumers to view the actual products inside outer package container 65. The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions windows 90-92 to be generally rectangular in shape. Outer package container 65 with windows 90-92 may be circular or generally rectangular (or generally square) or any other shape, so long as the consumers may view the contents within outer package container 65. Windows 90-92 can be cut out on top panel 93, side panels, or bottom panels, including the corners of outer package container 65. The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions outer package container 65 to be made from lightweight cardstock because it is rigid yet modifiable enough so that windows 90-92 can be cut out from the material of outer package container 65. However, the material from which outer package container 65 is made should be resilient enough, and durable enough, to withstand some rough treatment when selected publication 20 is injected into the hands of standard delivery services, such as the United States Postal Service. The products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers, may be seen through open windows 90-92, and even inserted through open windows 90-92, and products and containers may also be taken out of outer package container 65 through its windows 90-92 when the consumer opens publication package 10. The products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers, may attach to inside 94 of outer package container 65 through an adhesive like glue. Open windows 90-92 may remain open without any covering, or windows 90-92 may remain covered with a transparent material such as plastic (not shown). Outer package container 65 may be left open at each end 74-75 in some embodiments, and closed by suitable closure means at each end 74-75 after filling. Outer package container 65 can be supplied with an outer package closure, or formed with a closure (not shown), which may be fitted over remaining open end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65 after the products or inner package containers 50-52 containing the products (not shown) are inserted into outer package container 65. A simple means for closure is a plug (not shown), which may be fitted within end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65, or a cap (not shown) which may be fitted over end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65. Another closure consists of at least one generally flat flap (not shown) on ends 74 or 75 (top and bottom) of outer package container 65, which flap seals the contents securely inside outer package container 65 when the top and bottom flaps are folded inwardly. However, closures may be as simple as perpendicular slits (not shown) formed in the materials of outer package container 65 near its ends 74 or 75, which allow folding of the material of the ends of outer package container 65 into its interior, to hold in place the inner package containers 50-52 to prevent shifting of the containers or products during transit.
Fourth Preferred Embodiment
(36) In FIG. 11, a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention shows outer package container 65 which may be formed to create a hollow space wherein a transparent drawer 82 having six walls 83-88, and formed of plastic material, contains inner package containers 50-52 or samples which may be inserted in outer package container 65 to then align with one or more windows 90-92 when entire drawer 82 is inside outer package container 65. Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. 11, publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side with back cover 25 (not fully shown). Selected publication 20 page opening edge 22 may be seen, along with edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. In this case, selected publication 20 is a magazine, however publication package 10 may be utilized to distribute products by accompanying a variety of publications. Outer package container 65 is affixed to publication package 10 backing 40 (not fully shown), and backing 40 is positioned against the back cover 25 of selected publication 20.
(37) Of particular importance in FIG. 11, outer package container 65 which may be formed to create a hollow space wherein a transparent drawer having six sides, and formed of plastic material, contains inner package containers or samples which may be inserted in the outer package container to then align with one or more windows when the entire drawer is inside the outer package container. Drawer 82 for use in outer package container 65 may be formed as a drawer with six walls 83-88, and is moveable between an open position and a closed position. Walls 83-88 of drawer 82 provide interior support and housing of the products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers (not shown). The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions drawer 82 to be made from transparent plastic. Plastic walls 83-88 allows the consumer to view the contents inside outer package container 65. Viewed from the top, drawer 82 has roof wall 83, bottom wall 84, rear wall 85 (not shown), front wall 86, and two side walls 87-88. Roof wall 83, bottom wall 84, rear wall 85 (not shown), front wall 86 and two side walls 87-88 are attached along their peripheral edges thereof, leaving an opening above. Drawer 82 may include any of a variety of inserts (not shown), such as separators, to separate the samples and sample containers. These drawers and inserts can be made from suitably rigid material such as lightweight cardstock. Approximately matching the length of selected publication 20 and drawer 82 is desirable because movement of drawer 82 in relation to selected publication 20 is thereby reduced once outer package container 65 and selected publication 20 are “bundled” together within shrink wrap plastic or other means for holding outer package container 65 to selected publication 20. The length of drawer 82 is also generally uniform in width along its length, and generally rectangular in cross section, into which products, or inner package containers, or product containers may be inserted. Outer package container 65 may be left open at each end 74-75 in some embodiments, and closed by suitable closure means at each end 74-75 after filling. Outer package container 65 can be supplied with an outer package closure, or formed with a closure (not shown), which may be fitted over remaining open end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65 after the products or inner package containers 50-52 containing the products (not shown) are inserted into outer package container 65. A simple means for closure is a plug (not shown), which may be fitted within end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65, or a cap (not shown) which may be fitted over end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65. Another closure consists of at least one generally flat flap (not shown) on ends 74 or 75 (top and bottom) of outer package container 65, which flap seals the contents securely inside outer package container 65 when the top and bottom flaps are folded inwardly. However, closures may be as simple as perpendicular slits (not shown) formed in the materials of outer package container 65 near its ends 74 or 75, which allow folding of the material of the ends of outer package container 65 into its interior, to hold in place the inner package containers 50-52 to prevent shifting of the containers or products during transit.
Fifth Preferred Embodiment
(38) In FIG. 12, a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention shows outer package container 65 which creates a hollow space wherein a transparent drawer 82 having six walls 83-88, and formed from plastic material, may be inserted in the hollow space of outer package container 65 which contains vertical strip 93 (or “strip”) to display advertising text and materials. Products 95-96, or inner package containers, or product containers may be placed or attached to strip 93, so that consumers can easily pull out strip 93 to retrieve products 95-96 or inner package containers or samples. Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. 23, publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side. Selected publication 20 page opening edge 22 may be seen, along with edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. In this case, selected publication 20 is a magazine, however publication package 10 may be utilized to distribute products by accompanying a variety of publications. Outer package container 65 is affixed to publication package 10 backing 40 (not fully shown), and backing 40 is positioned against the back cover 25 of selected publication 20.
(39) Of particular importance in FIG. 12, outer package container 65 creates a hollow space wherein a transparent drawer having six walls 83-88, and formed from plastic material, may be inserted in the hollow space of outer package container 65 which contains vertical strip 93 to display advertising text and materials. Consumers can easily pull out strip 93 to retrieve products 95-96 or inner package containers or samples which may be placed or attached to strip 93. In this embodiment, strip 93 is an individual single sheet, which, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is made from lightweight cardstock, however all materials from which strip 93 may be made are within the scope of the present invention. Strip 93 can also attach to the interior bottom wall 84 of drawer 82 of outer package container 65 through adhesive means such glue or have no attachment at all. Products 95-96, or inner package containers, or product containers can also be attached to strip 93 through adhesive means such as glue or have no attachment at all. Strip 93 is formed about as long as the length of selected publication 20, and about as wide as the width of outer package container 65. Strip 93 can be printed with text and graphics which relate to the products 95-96 to be delivered in outer package container 65. To relate to products 95-96, the text and graphics are chosen to coordinate with text and graphics found on those products 95-96, or on the inner package container which contain those products 95-96. Drawer 82 for use in outer package container 65 may be formed as a drawer with six walls 83-88, and is moveable between an open position and a closed position. Walls 83-88 of drawer 82 provide interior support and housing of the products, or inner package containers 50-52, or product containers (not shown). The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions drawer 82 to be made from transparent plastic. Plastic walls 83-88 allows the consumer to view the contents inside outer package container 65. Viewed from the top, drawer 82 has roof wall 83, bottom wall 84, rear wall 85 (not shown), front wall 86, and two side walls 87-88. Roof wall 83, bottom wall 84, rear wall 85 (not shown), front wall 86 and two side walls 87-88 are attached along their peripheral edges thereof, leaving an opening above. Drawer 82 may include any of a variety of inserts (not shown), such as separators, to separate the samples and sample containers. These drawers and inserts can be made from suitably rigid material such as lightweight cardstock. Approximately matching the length of selected publication 20 and drawer 82 is desirable because movement of drawer 82 in relation to selected publication 20 is thereby reduced once outer package container 65 and selected publication 20 are “bundled” together within shrink wrap plastic or other means for holding outer package container 65 to selected publication 20. The length of drawer 82 is also generally uniform in width along its length, and generally rectangular in cross section, into which products, or inner package containers, or product containers may be inserted. Outer package container 65 may be left open at each end 74-75 in some embodiments, and closed by suitable closure means at each end 74-75 after filling. Outer package container 65 can be supplied with an outer package closure, or formed with a closure (not shown), which may be fitted over remaining open end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65 after the products or inner package containers 50-52 containing the products (not shown) are inserted into outer package container 65. A simple means for closure is a plug (not shown), which may be fitted within end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65, or a cap (not shown) which may be fitted over end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65. Another closure consists of at least one generally flat flap (not shown) on ends 74 or 75 (top and bottom) of outer package container 65, which flap seals the contents securely inside outer package container 65 when the top and bottom flaps are folded inwardly. However, closures may be as simple as perpendicular slits (not shown) formed in the materials of outer package container 65 near its ends 74 or 75, which allow folding of the material of the ends of outer package container 65 into its interior, to hold in place the inner package containers 50-52 to prevent shifting of the containers or products during transit.
Sixth Preferred Embodiment
(40) In FIG. 13, a sixth preferred embodiment present of invention shows rigid material (or “rigid inserts” 97-98) formed by cutting a blank of stiff, strong material such as corrugated cardboard which can be inserted inside 30 outer package container 65 to prevent any compromise or shifting of the samples and sample containers during transit. Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. 13, publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side with back cover 25 (not fully shown). Selected publication 20 page opening edge 22 may be seen, along with edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. In this case, selected publication 20 is a magazine, however publication package 10 may be utilized to distribute products by accompanying a variety of publications. Outer package container 65 is affixed to publication package 10 backing 40 (not fully shown), and backing 40 is positioned against the back cover 25 of selected publication 20.
(41) Of particular importance in FIG. 13, outer package container 65 contains at least one rigid insert 97 or 98 which are formed by cutting a blank of stiff, strong material such as corrugated cardboard to be inserted inside outer package container 65. The products, or inner package containers, or product containers is supported completely in relation to the placement of the rigid inserts inside outer package container 65. Rigid inserts 97-98 may be inserted vertical and parallel to the length of outer package container 65 or horizontal and parallel to the width of outer package container 65. Rigid inserts 97-98 exhibit adequate strength for shape and size. Other lightweight materials may be specifically selected for special purposes such as rigidity and stiffness. Materials are of sufficient rigidity to properly maintain and support the products, or inner package containers, or product containers during handling and shipment. Rigid inserts 97-98 also prevent movement of the products, or inner package containers, or product containers therein. Rigid inserts 97-98 may also preferably be about as long as selected publication 20 is long or as wide as the width of outer package container 65. The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions coplanar rigid material that is inserted perpendicular or parallel to the hollow space inside 30 outer package container 65. Approximately matching the length the selected publication 20, the rigid material is desirable to ensure all products, or inner package containers, or product containers do not shift during transit. Outer package container 65 which houses rigid inserts 97-98 may be left open at each end 74-75 in some embodiments, and closed by suitable closure means at each end 74-75 after filling. A simple means for closure is a plug (not shown), which may be fitted within end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65, or a cap (not shown) which may be fitted over end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65. Another closure consists of at least one generally flat flap (not shown) on ends 74 or 75 (top and bottom) of outer package container 65, which flap seals the contents securely inside outer package container 65 when the top and bottom flaps are folded inwardly. However, closures may be as simple as perpendicular slits (not shown) formed in the materials of outer package container 65 near its ends 74 or 75, which allow folding of the material of the ends of outer package container 65 into its interior, to hold in place the inner package containers 50-52 to prevent shifting of the containers or products during transit.
Seventh Preferred Embodiment
(42) In FIG. 14, an seventh preferred embodiment of the present invention shows perpendicular slit (“the slit” 100) which may be formed near its ends 74-75 of outer package container 65 which acts as a closure, thereby holding in place the products, inner package containers, or product containers to prevent shifting of the containers during transit. Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. 13, publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side with back cover 25 (not fully shown). Selected publication 20 page opening edge 22 may be seen, along with edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. In this case, selected publication 20 is a magazine, however publication package 10 may 30 be utilized to distribute products by accompanying a variety of publications. Outer package container 65 is affixed to publication package 10 backing 40 (not fully shown), and backing 40 is positioned against the back cover 25 of selected publication 20.
(43) Of particular importance in FIG. 14, perpendicular slit 100 which may be formed near its ends 74-75 of outer package container 65 which acts as a closure. Closures may be as simple as perpendicular slits 100 formed in the materials of outer package container 65 near its ends 74-75, which allow folding of the materials of ends 74-75 of outer package container 65 into its interior, to hold in place the products, inner package containers, or product containers to prevent shifting of the items during transit. Though a simple means for closure is a plug (not shown), which may be fitted within end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65, or a cap (not shown) which may be fitted over end 74 or 75 of outer package container 65, closures may be as simple as perpendicular slits 100 formed near its ends 74-75 of outer package container 65. Near each end 74-75 of outer package container 65, a slit 100 is made by cutting one end corner of outer package container 65. For an outer package container 65 that is folded outwardly from backing 40, slit 100 is made by cutting end corner comprising third side wall 62 and fourth side wall 63 of outer package container 65. For outer package container 65 that is folded inwardly from backing 40, slit 100 is made by cutting the corner comprising the second and third side wall of outer package container 65 (not shown). Slit 100 can be cut at any width desirable yet sufficient to hold the products, or inner package container, or product containers. Once slit 100 is made, the corners of slit 100 are folded inwardly and perpendicularly to the bottom side wall 63 of outer package container 65. Slit 200 is folded at a perpendicular angle so as to facilitate a means for holding and locking in the ends of the inner package containers or products near its ends 74-75 of outer package container 65.
Eighth Preferred Embodiment
(44) In FIG. 15, an eighth preferred embodiment of the present invention shows advertising card (or “double card” 101) which can function as a book cover and provide additional advertising space. Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. 15 26A, publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side with back cover 25 (not fully shown). Selected publication 20 page opening edge 22 may be seen, along with edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. In this case, selected publication 20 is a magazine, however publication package 10 may be utilized to distribute products by accompanying a variety of publications. Outer package container 65 is affixed to publication package 10 backing 40 (not fully shown), and backing 40 is positioned against the back cover 25 of selected publication 20.
(45) Of particular importance in FIG. 15A, double card 101 may function as a book cover and provide additional advertising space. Like the conventional structure of a book, double card 101 has three sides 102-104 which have front cover 102, spine side 103, and bottom cover 104 in this embodiment. Outer package container 30 is positioned against spine 103 inside front cover 102 and bottom cover 104 of double card 101. Outer package container 30 of publication package 10 may be formed in a regular, tubular shape, with outer package container 30 top end 31 (not shown) and outer package container 30 bottom end 32. Outer package container 30 and selected publication 20 is held in position so long as double card 101 remains. Double card 101 holds outer package container 30 and selected publication 20 in place while publication package 10 is in transit with or without attachment means. A means for adhering double card 101 to outer package container 30 and selected publication 20 can be by any means of an attachment, such as an adhesive, or staples. However, double card 31 need not be attached to outer package container 30 and selected publication 20 because outer package container 30 and selected publication 20 are held in position so long as double card 101 stays in position against front cover 21 and back cover 25 of selected publication 20. Double card 101 can be flipped opened in a right-to-left fashion, just as one would flip a book cover open from left to right. Alternatively, double card 101 can be placed on the opposite side of selected publication 20 and flipped open in a left-to-right fashion. This alternative placement of double card 101 is used in countries such as Japan, where reading materials are opened in a left-to-right fashion.
(46) The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions double card 101 to be made from lightweight cardstock, however all materials from which double card 101 may be made are within the scope of the present invention. Front cover 102, spine side 103, and back cover 104 of double card 101 can be about as long as the length of selected publication 20 or shorter, and about as wide as the width of selected publication 20, and spine edge 24 of selected publication 20. With the width about the same as spine edge 24 of selected publication 20, double card 101 will tend to stay in position against front cover 21 and back cover 25 of selected publication 20 in transit, so long as double card 101 encloses outer package container 30 and selected publication 20. Additional means to secure double card 101, selected publication 20, and outer package container 30 may include, but are not limited “poly-bagging,” or “shrink wrap,” or other outer cover means.
(47) All three sides 102-104 of double card 101 in the preferred embodiment of the present invention may bear additional marketing text and graphics which are coordinated with the graphics of inner package containers 50-52 (not shown) and backing 40. Double card 101 may also be printed with text and graphics which relate to the products or inner package containers 50-52 to be delivered in outer package container 30. To relate to those products or inner package containers 50-52, double card text and graphics may be chosen to coordinate with text and graphics down on those products, or on inner package containers 50-52 which contains those products. And since double card 101 has three sides 102-104, that consistent commercial impression, which may be chosen by the product manufacturer, may occupy space on each side of double card 101 as large as the area of back cover 25 or front cover 21 of selected publication 20. On the other hand text and graphics on the back cover 104 of double card 101 may, in some embodiments of the present invention, duplicate the text and graphics on back cover 25 of selected publication 20, thereby preserving the advertising value of back cover 25, which may already have been purchased by the advertiser. The product manufacturer can maximize advertising space with publication package 10 of the present invention. All of this advertising space is viewable from the back of publication package 20 (on bottom cover 104 of double card 101) when in transit, and on front cover 102 of double card 101.
Eighth Preferred Embodiment—Open View
(48) In FIG. 15B, the eighth preferred embodiment of the present invention of double card 101, as described above, is shown from an open view perspective. Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. 15B, publication package 10 is shown without selected publication 20, for the purpose of showing double card 102 in greater detail.
(49) Double card 101 has three sides 102-104 which have front cover 102, spine side 103, and bottom cover 104 in this embodiment. Outer package container 30 of publication package 10 may also be seen, formed in a regular, tubular shape, with outer package container 30 top end 31 and outer package container 30 bottom end 32. Outer package container 30 is positioned against spine 103 inside front cover 102 and bottom cover 104 of double card 101. A first generally flat side (not shown) of outer package container 30 is positioned against spine side 103 of double card 101. Outer package container 30 is formed of clear plastic in this embodiment, and three (in this embodiment) inner package containers, inner package container 50, inner package container 51, and inner package container 52, may be seen through the plastic of outer package container 30. Inner package containers 50 through 52 are positioned snugly within outer package container 30 in such a way that graphics, which may appear on the exterior sides of inner package containers 50 through 52 may be viewed through the clear plastic of outer package container 30. Outer package container closure means resides within or around outer package container 30 top end 31, to close outer package container 30 top end 31 once inner package container 50 through inner package container 52 have been placed within outer package container 30. Outer package container 30 and selected publication 20 (not shown, see FIG. 15A) is held in position so long as double card 101 remains. Double card 101 holds outer package container 30 and selected publication 20 in place while publication package 10 is in transit with or without attachment means. A means for adhering double card 101 to outer package container 30 and selected publication 20 can be by any means of an attachment, such as an adhesive, or staples. However, double card 31 need not be attached to outer package container 30 and selected publication 20 because outer package container 30 and selected publication 20 are held in position so long as double card 101 stays in position against front cover 21 and back cover 25 of selected publication 20. Double card 101 can be flipped opened in a right-to-left fashion, just as one would flip a book cover open from left to right. Alternatively, double card 101 can be placed on the opposite side of selected publication 20 and flipped open in a left-to-right fashion. This alternative placement of double card 101 is used in countries such as Japan, where reading materials are opened in a left-to-right fashion.
(50) The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions double card 101 to be made from lightweight cardstock, however all materials from which double card 101 may be made are within the scope of the present invention. Front cover 102, spine side 103, and back cover 104 of double card 101 can be about as long as the length of selected publication 20 (not shown) or shorter, and about as wide as the width of selected publication 20, and spine edge 24 (not shown) of selected publication 20. With the width about the same as a spine edge 24 of selected publication 20, double card 101 will tend to stay in position against front cover 21 and back cover 25 of selected publication 20 in transit, so long as double card 101 encloses outer package container 30 and selected publication 20. Additional means to secure double card 101, selected publication 20, and outer package container 30 may include, but are not limited “poly-bagging,” or “shrink wrap,” or other outer cover means.
(51) All three sides 102-104 of double card 101 in the preferred embodiment of the present invention may bear additional marketing text and graphics which are coordinated with the graphics of inner package containers 50-52 and backing 40 (not shown). Double card 101 may also be printed with text and graphics which relate to the products or inner package containers 50-52 to be delivered in outer package container 30. To relate to those products or inner package containers 50-52, double card text and graphics may be chosen to coordinate with text and graphics down on those products, or on inner package containers 50-52 which contains those products. And since double card 101 has three sides 102-104, that consistent commercial impression, which may be chosen by the product manufacturer, may occupy space on each side of double card 101 as large as the area of back cover 25 or front cover 21 of selected publication 20 (not shown). On the other hand text and graphics on the back cover 104 of double card 101 may, in some embodiments of the present invention, duplicate the text and graphics on back cover 25 of selected publication 20, thereby preserving the advertising value of back cover 25, which may already have been purchased by the advertiser. The product manufacturer can maximize advertising space with publication package 10 of the present invention. All of this advertising space is viewable from the back of publication package 20 (on bottom cover 104 of double card 101) when in transit, and on front cover 102 of double card 101.
Ninth Preferred Embodiment
(52) In FIG. 16A, a ninth preferred embodiment of the present invention shows sleeve 110 with three sides 111-113 (or “sleeve” 110) which may also function as a book cover and provide additional advertising space. Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. , publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side with back cover 25 (not fully shown). Selected publication 20 page opening edge 22 may be seen, along with edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. In this case, selected publication 20 is a magazine, however publication package 10 may be utilized to distribute products by accompanying a variety of publications. Outer package container 65 is affixed to publication package 10 backing 40 (not fully shown), and backing 40 is positioned against the back cover 25 of selected publication 20.
(53) Of particular importance in FIG. 16A, sleeve 110 with three sides 111-113 may function as a book cover and provide additional advertising space. Like the conventional structure of a book, sleeve 110 includes three sides 111-113 which have front cover 111, spine side 112, and bottom cover 113 in this embodiment. Sleeve 110 enwraps around publication package 10 comprising of selected publication 20 and outer package containers 30 and 115 placed vertically against each vertical end of bottom cover 113.
(54) Sleeve 110 holds outer package containers 30 and 115 and selected publication 20 in place while publication package 10 is in transit with or without attachment means. Front cover 111 and bottom cover 113 are formed about as long as the length of selected publication 20, and about as wide as the width of selected publication 20, including spine edge 24 of selected publication 20 if any. Sleeve 110 holds outer package containers 30 and 115 and selected publication 20 in place while publication package 10 is in transit with or without attachment means. A means for adhering sleeve 110 to outer package containers 30 and 115 and selected publication 20 can be by any means of an attachment, such as an adhesive or staples. Sleeve 110 also adequately protects the face of publication package 10 during shipping and handling. Like a book cover, sleeve 110 enwraps and embodies the structural arrangement by which sleeve 110 may be folded about publication package 10. Sleeve 110 is wrapped around publication package 10, such that front cover 111, spine side 112, bottom cover 113, and opening edge 22 of selected publication 20 are covered except for the horizontal edges of selected publication 20 and horizontal and outer vertical side walls of the outer package containers 30 and 115. Sleeve 110 is an individual single sheet, which, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is made from lightweight cardstock, however all materials from which sleeve 110 may be made are within the scope of the present invention. After sleeve 110 is folded around publication package 10, sleeve 110 can be flipped opened in a right-to-left fashion, just as one would flip a book cover open from left to right. Alternatively, sleeve 110 may be placed on the opposite side of selected publication 20 and flipped open in a left-to-right fashion. This alternative placement of sleeve 110 is used in countries such as Japan, where reading materials are opened in a left-to-right fashion.
(55) The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions sleeve 110 to be made from lightweight cardstock, however all materials from which sleeve 110 may be made are within the scope of the present invention. Front cover 111, spine side 112, and bottom cover 113 of sleeve 110 can be about as long as the length of selected publication 20 or shorter, and about as wide as the width of selected publication 20, and spine edge 24 of selected publication 20. With the width about the same as spine edge 24 of selected publication 20, sleeve 110 will tend to stay in position against front cover 21 and back cover 25 of selected publication 20 in transit, so long as sleeve 110 encloses outer package containers 30 and 115 and selected publication 20. Additional means to secure sleeve 110, selected publication 20, and outer package containers 30 and 115 may include, but are not limited “poly-bagging,” or “shrink wrap,” or other outer cover means.
(56) When wrapped around publication package 10, all three sides 112-112 of sleeve 110 are printed with text and graphics which relate to the products or inner package containers 50-52 (not shown) to be delivered in outer package container 30 or products, or inner package containers 118-120 (not shown) to be delivered in outer package container 115. To relate to those products or inner package containers 50-52 or 118-120, the text and graphics are chosen to coordinate with text and graphics found on those products, or on inner package containers 50-52 or 118-120 which contain those products. And since sleeve 110 has three sides 111-113, that consistent commercial impression, which may be chosen by the product manufacturer, may occupy space on each side of sleeve 110 as large as the area of back cover 25 or front cover 21 of selected publication 20. On the other hand text and graphics on back cover 113 of sleeve 110 may, in some embodiments of the present invention, duplicate the text and graphics on back cover 25 of selected publication 20, thereby preserving the advertising value of back cover 113, which may already have been purchased by the advertiser. The product manufacturer can maximize advertising space with publication package 10 of the present invention. With the width about the same as spine edge 24 of selected publication 20, publication package 10 will tend to stay in position while it is in enwrapped by sleeve 110 in transit, so long as sleeve 110 encloses publication package 10 without having its ends detached.
Ninth Preferred Embodiment—Open View
(57) In FIG. 16B, the ninth preferred embodiment of the present invention of double card 101, as described above, is shown from an open view perspective. Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. 16B, publication package 10 is shown without selected publication 20, for the purpose of showing double card 102 in greater detail.
(58) Sleeve 110 has three sides 111-113 which have front cover 111, spine side 112, and bottom cover 113. Sleeve 110 enwraps around publication package 10 comprising of selected publication 20 (not shown) and outer package containers 30 and 115 placed vertically against each vertical end of bottom cover 113. Outer package containers 30 and 115 of publication package 10 may be formed in a regular, tubular shape, with outer package container 30 top end 31 and outer package container 30 bottom end 32 as well as outer package container 115 top end 116 and outer package container 115 bottom end 117. With respect to outer package 30, a first generally flat side (not shown) of outer package container 30 is positioned against spine side 112 of sleeve 110. Outer package container 30 is formed of clear plastic in this embodiment, and three (in this embodiment) inner package containers, inner package container 50, inner package container 51, and inner package container 52, may be seen through the plastic of outer package container 30. Inner package containers 50 through 52 are positioned snugly within outer package container 30 in such a way that graphics, which may appear on the exterior sides of inner package containers 50 through 52 may be viewed through the clear plastic of outer package container 30. Outer package container closure means resides within or around outer package container 30 top end 31, to close outer package container 30 top end 31 once inner package container 50 through inner package container 52 have been placed within outer package container 30. With respect to outer package 115, a first generally flat side (not shown) of outer package container 115 is positioned against vertical end of sleeve 110. Outer package container 115 is formed of clear plastic in this embodiment, and three (in this embodiment) inner package containers, inner package container 118, inner package container 119, and inner package container 120, may be seen through the plastic of outer package container 115. Inner package containers 118 through 120 are positioned snugly within outer package container 115 in such a way that graphics, which may appear on the exterior sides of inner package containers 118 through 120 may be viewed through the clear plastic of outer package container 115. Outer package container closure means resides within or around outer package container 115 top end 116, to close outer package container 115 top end 31 or outer package container 115 bottom end 117 once inner package container 118 through inner package container 120 have been placed within outer package container 115. Sleeve 110 holds outer package containers 30 and 115 and selected publication 20 (not shown, see FIG. 21k) in place while publication package 10 is in transit with or without attachment means. Front cover 111 and bottom cover 113 are formed about as long as the length of selected publication 20, and about as wide as the width of selected publication 20, including spine edge 24 of selected publication 20 if any. Sleeve 110 holds outer package containers 30 and 115 and selected publication 20 in place while publication package 10 is in transit with or without attachment means. A means for adhering sleeve 110 to outer package containers 30 and 115 and selected publication 20 can be by any means of an attachment, such as an adhesive or staples. Sleeve 110 also adequately protects the face of publication package 10 during shipping and handling. Like a book cover, sleeve 110 enwraps and embodies the structural arrangement by which sleeve 110 may be folded about publication package 10. Sleeve 110 is wrapped around publication package 10, such that front cover 111, spine side 112, bottom cover 113, and opening edge 22 of selected publication 20 are covered except for the horizontal edges of selected publication 20 and horizontal and outer vertical side walls of the outer package containers 30 and 115. Sleeve 110 is an individual single sheet, which, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is made from lightweight cardstock, however all materials from which sleeve 110 may be made are within the scope of the present invention. After sleeve 110 is folded around publication package 10, sleeve 110 can be flipped opened in a right-to-left fashion, just as one would flip a book cover open from left to right. Alternatively, sleeve 110 may be placed on the opposite side of selected publication 20 and flipped open in a left-to-right fashion. This alternative placement of sleeve 110 is used in countries such as Japan, where reading materials are opened in a left-to-right fashion.
(59) The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions sleeve 110 to be made from lightweight cardstock, however all materials from which sleeve 110 may be made are within the scope of the present invention. Front cover 111, spine side 112, and bottom cover 113 of sleeve 110 can be about as long as the length of selected publication 20 or shorter, and about as wide as the width of selected publication 20 (not shown), and spine edge 24 (not shown) of selected publication 20. With the width about the same as spine edge 24 of selected publication 20, sleeve 110 will tend to stay in position against front cover 21 and back cover 25 of selected publication 20 in transit, so long as sleeve 110 encloses outer package containers 30 and 115 and selected publication 20. Additional means to secure sleeve 110, selected publication 20, and outer package containers 30 and 115 may include, but are not limited “poly-bagging,” or “shrink wrap,” or other outer cover means.
(60) When wrapped around publication package 10, all three sides 112-112 of sleeve 110 are printed with text and graphics which relate to the products or inner package containers 50-52 (not shown) to be delivered in outer package container 30 or products, or inner package containers 118-120 to be delivered in outer package container 115. To relate to those products or inner package containers 50-52 or 118-120, the text and graphics are chosen to coordinate with text and graphics found on those products, or on inner package containers 50-52 or 118-120 which contain those products. And since sleeve 110 has three sides 111-113, that consistent commercial impression, which may be chosen by the product manufacturer, may occupy space on each side of sleeve 110 as large as the area of back cover 25 or front cover 21 of selected publication 20 (not shown). On the other hand text and graphics on back cover 113 of sleeve 110 may, in some embodiments of the present invention, duplicate the text and graphics on back cover 25 of selected publication 20, thereby preserving the advertising value of back cover 113, which may already have been purchased by the advertiser. The product manufacturer can maximize advertising space with publication package 10 of the present invention. With the width about the same as spine edge 24 of selected publication 20, publication package 10 will tend to stay in position while it is in enwrapped by sleeve 110 in transit, so long as sleeve 110 encloses publication package 10 without having its ends detached.
Tenth Preferred Embodiment
(61) In FIG. 17, the tenth preferred embodiment of the present invention shows sealed sample bag 130 (“or sample bag”) containing sample 131 and advertising card 132 which may be placed along with publication package 10 and held in place by publication package covering means, such as a poly-bag or a shrink-wrap. Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. 17 28, publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side. Selected publication 20 page opening edge 22 may be seen, along with edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. In this case, selected publication 20 is a magazine, however publication package 10 may be utilized to distribute products by accompanying a variety of publications. Outer package container 65 is affixed to publication package 10 backing 40 (not fully shown), and backing 40 is positioned against the back cover 25 of selected publication 20.
(62) Of particular importance in FIG. 17, sample bag 130 containing sample 131 and advertising card 132 may be placed along with publication package 10 and held in place by publication package covering means, such as a poly-bag or a shrink-wrap. In this embodiment, sample bag 130 can also be attached to selected publication 20 by means of an attachment, such as an adhesive, or staples. The covering means maintains the position of outer package container 65, backing 40, and sample bag 130. The preferred embodiment in the present invention envisions sample bag 130 to be rectangularly-shaped and made from clear plastic, so that potential consumers wishing to purchase selected publication 20 or sample 131 or sample container inside sample bag 130 may view its contents. This embodiment may have advertising card 132 and sample 131 or sample container attached to advertising card 132 by means of an attachment, such as an adhesive or staples. Additional means to secure advertising card 132 to sample 131 or sample container may include, but are not limited “poly-bagging,” or “shrink wrap,” or other outer cover means. Advertising card 132 may be printed with text and graphics on its front which relate to sample 131 or sample container. The back of advertising card 132 may also be printed with text and graphics so as to maximize advertising space. Advertising card 132 can be of any length, width, and shape. The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions advertising card 132 to be made of lightweight cardstock, however, all materials from which advertising card 132 may be made are within the scope of the present invention.
Eleventh Preferred Embodiment
(63) In FIG. 18, the eleventh preferred embodiment of the present invention shows a thermoformed, flat back packaging sample (or “sample pod” 140). Publication package 10 of the present invention is shown again in perspective, and for clarity without shrink-wrap covering means. In FIG. 18, publication package 10 has attached to it selected publication 20, viewed from selected publication 20 front cover 21 side. Selected publication 20 page opening edge 22 may be seen, along with edges of individual pages 23 of selected publication 20. In this case, selected publication 20 is a magazine, however publication package 10 may be utilized to distribute products by accompanying a variety of publications. Outer package container 65 is affixed to publication package 10 backing 40 (not fully shown), and backing 40 is positioned against the back cover 25 of selected publication 20.
(64) Of particular importance in FIG. 18, sample pod 140 contains a liquid-holding sample 141 which may be attached to backing 40 of the publication package 10. In this embodiment, sample pod 140 can also be placed separately somewhere within publication package 10 and held in place by publication package covering means, such as a poly-bag or a shrink-wrap. The covering maintains the position of outer package container 65, backing 40, and sample pod 140. Sample pod 140 can be attached to any of backing's 40 outer vertical or horizontal edges of publication package 10 or selected publication 20 by means of an adhesive, such as glue or staples. The placement of sample pod 140 on the backing's 40 outer vertical or horizontal edge allows selected publication 20 to be held in place between outer package container 65 and sample pod 140. Sample pod 140 is made from sustainable, thermoformed material with high stiffness, good 30 compression strength and processability to withstand any leakage during heavy handling or shipment of sample pod 140. The flat back 143 packaging of sample pod 140 allows the maximal surface area to be in contact with the surface to which sample pod 140 is attached with an adhesive. Sample pod 140 can be of any length, width, and shape. The preferred embodiment in the present invention envisions sample pod 140 to be made from plastic. Sample pod 140 may also be made from transparent material, so that potential consumers wishing to purchase selected publication 20 may view sample pod's 140 contents. Sample pod 140 may be printed with text and graphics on its front which relate to liquid sample 141. Flat back 143 of sample pod 140 may also be printed with text and graphics so as to maximize advertising space. The preferred embodiment of the present invention envisions sample pod 140 to be made of plastic, however, all materials from which sample pod 140 may be made are within the scope of the present invention. The thermoformed film parts can be heat-sealed, bonded, or welded together and attached with at least one closure such as a weldspout fitment 142 or any other fitment known to those skilled in the art. A thermoforming process can include thermoforming, vacuum forming, twin sheet thermoforming, pressure forming or hot air blow forming of a film into a shaped and sculpted form.
(65) Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope of the invention being indicated by the following claims and equivalents.
