UTENSILS WITH EXTENDED HANDLES

Abstract

An article of manufacture comprising a planar utensil element fabricated of an elongated foldable paperboard-like material and having a plurality of scores indicating where the planar utensil element is to be folded in order to become a usable utensil. Folding the planar utensil element about the scores produces a handle and a bowl. In some embodiments, elongated handle elements are formed in a plane and are separated by a V-shaped groove or a slit in a region where the handle elements are coupled to a bowl element. To construct the usable utensil, the handle elements are brought together, forming a three dimensional utensil having a handle and a bowl. The bowl may be conically shaped. In some embodiments, one of the handle elements is folded upon itself before being coupled to the other handle element. In some embodiments, an element of a food container, which may be fabricated of the same material as the planar utensil element, covers at least a portion of the planar utensil element. The food package may have the shape of a regular or irregular parallelepiped.

Claims

1. A planar utensil element fabricated of a foldable paperboard-like material, comprising: first and second elongated handle elements disposed generally symmetrically about a midline of the planar utensil element, each handle element comprising an open first end and an opposing second end; and coupled to the second end of each of the two handle elements, a first end of a bowl element, said bowl element having a rounded shape at an end opposite the first end of the bowl element; wherein the handle elements are connected to and merge into each other at their second ends; the handle elements are spaced apart from each other at their first ends; and joining the handle elements together forms a non-planar utensil having a handle and a bowl, corresponding to the joined handle elements and to the bowl element, respectively.

2. The utensil element of claim 1 wherein a V-shaped notch is formed in the planar utensil element in a region between the second ends of the two handle elements.

3. The utensil element of claim 1 wherein a slit is cut through the paperboard-like material in a region between the second ends of the two handle elements.

4. The utensil element of claim 1 wherein the bowl has a substantially conical shape.

5. The utensil element of claim 1 wherein the length of each of the two handle elements is greater than the diameter of the bowl element.

6. The utensil element of claim 1 wherein each handle element comprises a longitudinal score, and each handle element is bent around its longitudinal score as the handle elements are joined together to form the handle.

7. The utensil element of claim 1 wherein one of the handle elements comprises a tab and the other handle element comprises a slit, whereby the tab fits into the slit when the handle elements are joined to form the handle, thus keeping the handle together.

8. The utensil element of claim 1 wherein the handle elements are joined together by a tacky adhesive or glue, thus keeping the handle together.

9. The utensil element of claim 1 wherein the outer edge of each handle element is curved in a region where the second end of the handle element couples into the bowl element.

10. The utensil element of claim 1 wherein one handle element is longer than the other handle element.

11. The utensil element of claim 1 wherein the first ends of the handle elements are curved.

12. The utensil element of claim 1 wherein one of the handle elements is folded upon itself before being joined with the other handle element to form the handle.

13. A food container comprising: a plurality of flat surfaces joined together so as to form a cavity for holding food; a planar utensil element having a plurality of scores indicating where the utensil element is to be folded in order to become a usable utensil, wherein folding the utensil element about the scores produces a handle and a bowl; and a planar covering element covering at least a portion of the utensil element; wherein the utensil element is positioned under the covering element and is coplanar with and attached to a surface of the container; and the covering element provides physical and hygienic protection to the utensil element during transportation of the container.

14. The food container of claim 13 wherein the container is fabricated of a paperboard-like foldable material.

15. The food container of claim 13 wherein the container is fabricated of a plant-based substitute for Styrofoam.

16. The food container of claim 13 wherein wherein the container has the shape of a regular parallelepiped.

17. The food container of claim 13 wherein the container comprises a circular bottom surface and a rectangular top surface.

18. The food container of claim 13 wherein the covering element is fabricated of the same material as the utensil element.

19. The food container of claim 13 wherein the utensil element is fabricated of the same material as the surfaces of the container.

20. The food container of claim 13 wherein the utensil element is attached to an underside of an upper lid of the container.

21. The food container of claim 13 wherein: the utensil is indirectly attached to the surface of the container via the covering element; the utensil element and the covering element are pivotally attached to the surface of the container about a pivot line; and the utensil element is released from the container by unfurling the utensil element and the covering element about the pivot line, and then separating the utensil element from the covering element.

22. The food container of claim 13 wherein the covering element has the same shape as the utensil element.

23. The food container of claim 13 wherein the covering element is larger than the utensil element in the plane of the utensil element.

24. The food container of claim 13 wherein the utensil element is attached to the surface of the container by a series of perforations.

25. The food container of claim 24 wherein the utensil element comprises a bowl precursor, and the perforations do not extend along the entirety of the bowl precursor, whereby a smooth transition is made between the bowl and the handle in the usable utensil.

26. The food container of claim 13 wherein the utensil element comprises a perpendicular score, and the utensil element is folded about the perpendicular score prior to being attached to the container.

27. The food container of claim 13 comprising a first surface terminating in a tab that fits into a corresponding slit in a second surface, whereby the tab and slit provide a secure closure to the container during transit.

28. The food container of claim 13 wherein the utensil element comprises: first and second curved scores positioned generally symmetrically about a longitudinal midline running along the length of the utensil element, and indicative of where the utensil element is to be folded in order to become a usable utensil; wherein: the first and second curved scores each curve outwardly away from the longitudinal midline in a concave manner with respect to the longitudinal midline, and then curve inwardly towards the longitudinal midline in a convex manner with respect to the longitudinal midline as the utensil element is traversed from a handle end to a bowl end.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] The accompanying figures, in which like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally-similar elements throughout the separate views and which are incorporated in and form a part of the specification, further illustrate the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 1 illustrates a constructible utensil including an exterior perimeter and a score pattern configured to produce a constructible spork.

[0041] FIG. 2 illustrates a constructible taster utensil including an exterior perimeter and a score pattern configured to produce a constructible taster having a widened operative element.

[0042] FIG. 3 illustrates both an unconstructed and constructed constructible utensil including an exterior perimeter and a score pattern configured to produce a constructible utensil having a backstop.

[0043] FIG. 4 illustrates a constructible taster utensil including a perpendicular score for length-shortening folding.

[0044] FIG. 5 illustrates a construction sequence for a constructible utensil including an exterior perimeter and a score pattern configured to produce a novel spoon lid utensil.

[0045] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of the invention in which scores 605 are curved.

[0046] FIG. 7 illustrates a constructible utensil delivery system including a container with an overwrap as delivered to a prospective consumer.

[0047] FIG. 8 illustrates the constructible utensil delivery system of FIG. 7 with the overwrap partially pulled back to reveal the integrated constructible utensil.

[0048] FIG. 9 illustrates a first alternate constructible utensil delivery system including a container with an overwrap as delivered to a prospective consumer.

[0049] FIG. 10 illustrates the first alternate constructible utensil delivery system of FIG. 9 with the overwrap partially pulled back to reveal the integrated constructible utensil.

[0050] FIG. 11 illustrates a second alternate constructible utensil delivery system including a container with an overwrap as delivered to a prospective consumer.

[0051] FIG. 12 illustrates the second alternate constructible utensil delivery system of FIG. 11 with the overwrap partially pulled back to reveal the integrated constructible utensil.

[0052] FIG. 13 illustrates a pre-constructed conical constructible scoop.

[0053] FIG. 14 illustrates a constructed conical constructible scoop corresponding to FIG. 13.

[0054] FIG. 15A illustrates a first embodiment of the interconnecting elements discussed in paragraph [0069], with the invention in a pre-folded form.

[0055] FIG. 15B illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 15A, with the invention in a folded and locked form.

[0056] FIG. 16A illustrates a second embodiment of the interconnecting tabs discussed in paragraph [0069], with the invention in a partially folded and pre-locked form; the two major sections of FIG. 16A wittingly don't have a consistent perspective.

[0057] FIG. 16B illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 16A, with the invention in a locked form.

[0058] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention 100 in which food container 105 is a parallelepiped, and planar utensil element 130 and overwrap 110 are attached to a lid 1701 of the container 105.

[0059] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention 100 in which food container 105 is a parallelepiped, and planar utensil element 130 is part 1804 of a lid 1803 of the container 105.

[0060] FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention 100 in which the top lid 1901 of container 105 has a generally rectangular shape.

[0061] FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention 100 in which planar utensil element 130 has been folded about perpendicular score 201 before being affixed to container 105.

[0062] FIG. 21 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a planar utensil element 2100 of the present invention in its pre-constructed (pre-folded) planar form.

[0063] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the utensil element 2100 of FIG. 21 after said element 2100 has been constructed (folded) into a three dimensional utensil.

[0064] FIG. 23 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a planar utensil element 2300 of the present invention in its pre-constructed (pre-folded) planar form.

[0065] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the utensil element 2300 of FIG. 23 after said element 2300 has been constructed (folded) into a three dimensional utensil.

[0066] FIG. 25 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a planar utensil element 2500 of the present invention in its pre-constructed (pre-folded) planar form.

[0067] FIG. 26 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the utensil element 2300 or 2500 in an embodiment (further illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 28) in which handle element 2302 or 2502 has been folded onto itself.

[0068] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the utensil element 2300 or 2500 corresponding to FIG. 26, showing a tab 2308 and a corresponding slit 2309.

[0069] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the utensil element of 2300 or 2500 corresponding to FIG. 26 at a point in time right before handle 2401 is fully formed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0070] Embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for meeting market demand for better constructible utensils. The following description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention and is provided in the context of a patent application and its requirements.

[0071] Various modifications to the preferred embodiment and the generic principles and features described herein will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiment shown but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein.

[0072] It should be noted that the Figures include specific shapes, paths, and arrangements of scores used to facilitate formation of three dimensional bowls as a part of a body is folded. The scores have been illustrated to accurately present representative suitable score paths for the particular utensil type and application, particularly with respect to location, arrangement, and placement.

[0073] The constructible utensils disclosed herein are generally representative of a wide range of constructible utensils, some of which have been illustrated and described in related patents and patent applications. These related patents and patent applications, all of which have the same inventor, include, but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. No. 8,210,381 issued Jul. 3, 2012 (Attorney Docket ECOT 7001 US), U.S. Pat. No. 9,131,793 issued Sep. 15, 2015 (Attorney Docket ECOT 7012 US), D646,529 issued Oct. 11, 2011 (Attorney Docket ECOT 7003 DE), and D651,480 issued Jan. 2, 2012 (Attorney Docket ECOT 7004 DE); and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/357,557 filed Jan. 24, 2012 (Attorney Docket ECOT 7006 US), 61/699,808 filed Sep. 11, 2012 (Attorney Docket ECOT 7009 PR), 61/699,787 filed Sep. 11, 2012 (Attorney Docket ECOT 7010 PR), 61/712,610 filed Oct. 11, 2012 (Attorney Docket ECOT 7011 PR), 61/794,613 filed Mar. 15, 2013 (Attorney Docket ECOT 7013 PR), and 61/794,880 filed Mar. 15, 2013 (Attorney Docket ECOT 7014 PR), all of which patents and patent applications are hereby expressly incorporated by reference in their entireties into the present patent application.

[0074] In some cases, a preferred embodiment includes environmentally friendly materials, which often include paper and paper-like substances. For a utensil, it is the case that the foodstuff may have a significant moisture content. To enhance longevity in terms of preserving structural integrity and strength over the serving/portion size, moisture resistance is important in some implementations. Such utensils may be processed to enhance function (e.g., coated with environmentally appropriate material) to resist premature degradation during use (e.g., a moisture-barrier), or may be manufactured of a moisture-barrier material (e.g., calcium carbonate or the like), collectively a coating, whose inherent characteristic or other moisture protection system is referred to as moisture-barrier property.

[0075] Some preferred embodiments include a paperboard sheet material. In some of the descriptions, there are certain score lines that are specifically set forth to be close to, but spaced away from, an edge of a body or body element of a constructible utensil. For some materials, these scores break down fiber used in the body and could increase moisture absorption. Spacing a terminating end of these score lines away from the physical edge improves moisture absorption resistance.

[0076] The preferred embodiments use sustainable tree-based wood fibers due to improved material properties. In some applications, and as additional materials are developed, other materials (such as shorter fibers from other plants or mineral-based substrates) may be used in lieu of tree-based wood fibers. Additionally, the preferred embodiments describe implementations that include multiple curved scores, including multiple curved scores that bend inwardly towards each other. Some implementations may include other configurations, including a single curved implementation that produces a bowl when folded along this score.

[0077] Some of the disclosed embodiments include configuration changes to a basic constructible single-use taster.

[0078] The constructible taster includes a generally bullet shaped perimeter having a longitudinal axis about which the constructible taster is generally symmetric. The perimeter is about 1.25 inches wide and about 3.125 inches long (the bullet shaped perimeter including a generally rectangular body that is about 1.25 inchesabout 2.5625 inches and a semi-disk at one end of the rectangle having a radius of about 0.5625 inches). A handle portion is joined to a functional end with handle portion including a short handle score extending along the longitudinal axis and joining a pair of curved scores extending from lateral edges of the functional end located at a distal end (e.g., opposite of the handle portion at a proximal end). In some implementations the handle score may be omitted, its function provided by an extension of one or more of the curved scores extending towards the proximal end from the distal end. Folding/deforming the proximal end along the handle score (or handle score substitute) induces the deformation of the functional end about the one or more curved scores to create a three-dimensional structure (generally described as arched or bowl-shaped), which adds strength/rigidity and function, such as retaining low-viscosity foodstuff.

[0079] The tasters are generally small, and the constructible taster is particularly configured to reduce material use while providing efficient operation. A size and shape of a bowl formed in the constructible taster at the distal end is determined, again, by the arrangement of the scores with respect to the body and its structures. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the scores are close to lateral edges of the body near the distal end (without reaching the edge to improve mouth feel by reducing sharp edges), and converge to a central fold axis near the proximal end and produce the desired bowl shape. The scores are gentle and convex with respect to the fold axis and curve over almost the entire length of the rectilinear body and do not meet until very close to the edge. For purposes of this application in the context of a taster, the scores converge within 33% of the length of the body element from the handle end and most preferably within 10% of the length from the handle end. At the other end, the scores reach near the lateral edges at points greater than 50% of the length and most preferably at points greater than 75%.

[0080] Included with the constructible taster are informational indicia (e.g., specifically positioned dots) that identify a preferred location for squeezing/deforming the handle portion. (E.g., bend-to-touch dots, which recreate the desired deformation in the handle to help optimize formation of the functional element.) Preferably, these indicia are placed near where the scores converge, in this case, towards the proximal end of the body, so that the body gradually distorts along scores generally over the entire length.

[0081] In some embodiments, it will be desirable to provide some type of mechanism to maintain the lateral edges of the body (e.g., near the indicia) in a generally folded arrangement to preserve a desired minimum capacity/shape to the formed bowl (and to maintain those lateral edges extending upwards to be easily grasped to permit the constructible taster to be picked up from a work surface, especially with the bowl shape retained). The material selection of the body and the depth and nature of the formation of the scores are one way to provide for a retaining force resisting unfolding when a folding force is removed. In other embodiments, some type of tacky adhesive or interconnecting tabs may be used to hold the lateral edges together and the body in the folded mode. FIG. 15A illustrates a first embodiment of these interconnecting tabs (consisting of a slit formed in a big tab, plus a little tab), with the invention in a pre-folded form. FIG. 15B illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 15A, with the invention in a folded and locked form. FIG. 16A illustrates a second embodiment of these interconnecting tabs (a first tab formed by a rounded slit in one end of the utensil, plus a second tab consisting of the other end of the utensil), with the invention in a partially folded and pre-locked form. FIG. 16B illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 16A, with the utensil in a completely folded and locked form.

[0082] The incorporated patents and patent applications describe alternate score patterns and perimeter shapes for the constructible taster and other constructible utensils described herein. Those alternates may be combined with the basic taster and further modified as described herein in keeping with the present invention.

[0083] FIG. 1 illustrates a constructible utensil including an exterior perimeter and a score pattern configured to produce a constructible spork. The constructible spork of FIG. 1 is a modification of the constructible taster, and includes a bowl-producing score pattern, with the forward free curvilinear edge including 2 tines, with 2-5 tines possible with different perimeter notching. The tines of the constructible spork help to spear and catch noodles, salads, fruit salads, and the like.

[0084] FIG. 2 illustrates a constructible taster utensil including an exterior perimeter and a score pattern configured to produce a constructible taster having a widened operative element. The constructible taster utensil of FIG. 2 is a modification of the constructible taster, and includes a widened spoon end (i.e., the functional end). The constructible taster utensil of FIG. 2 aids the consumer, and can help to reduce material usage during manufacturing.

[0085] FIG. 3 illustrates both an unconstructed and constructed constructible utensil including an exterior perimeter and a score pattern configured to produce a constructible utensil having a backstop. The constructible taster utensil of FIG. 3 is a modification of the constructible taster, and includes a score pattern having backstop scores at the end of the handle portion. When needed or desired, a consumer is able to fold up the backstop along the backstop scores to create a dam that prevents contents (e.g., liquids) from spilling off the back end of the handle. The backstop scores include a pair of linear scores extending from a common point on the longitudinal axis back towards rear comers of the handle portion. Those scores, combined with a longitudinal score extending from an edge of the handle towards the functional end (which is sometimes present in certain implementation of the constructible taster), cooperate with the pair of linear scores to selectively produce the independently operable backstop. The backstop is independent from the bowl-producing scoring pattern, as the user may or may not use the backstop with a folded and constructed utensil.

[0086] FIG. 4 illustrates a constructible taster utensil including a perpendicular score for length-shortening folding. The constructible taster utensil of FIG. 4 is a modification of the constructible taster, and includes a perpendicular (e.g., to the longitudinal axis and/or the fold axis) fold to allow the constructible taster utensil to be length collapsible to fit on small packages. Even though the constructible taster is typically configured to be very short, there are applications in which it is desired to have a shortened constructible taster, such as inclusion in certain small footprint foodstuff containers (e.g., food samples and the like). Also, the constructible taster utensil frequently needs to be longer than the side or top of a container so it can reach into the container and still have length for the consumer to hold the handle end.

[0087] The perpendicular fold enables a pre-constructed length of constructible taster utensil shortened for packaging. Depending upon a location, the folded length may be shortened anywhere from 50% to 75% of the unfolded length.

[0088] FIG. 5 illustrates a construction sequence for a constructible utensil including an exterior perimeter and a score pattern configured to produce a novel spoon lid utensil. The incorporated patent documents include description and illustrations of several different spoon lids. The products can have a handle portion having a perimeter matching the container opening/lid shape and a functional extension that is foldably attached to the handle portion. Unfolding the functional extension and folding the handle portion creates an extended bowl portion suitable for reaching into the container and consuming the foodstuff contained within. Those solutions offer the advantage of a small pre-constructed footprint with the ability to have a greater length when constructed. In some instances, the folding process increases unit costs due to the folding step and addition of any releasable adhesive securing the functional extension in the folded configuration to be ready for use. And as compared to the constructible utensil illustrated in FIG. 5, such a system includes extra material that is not used by the embodiment of FIG. 5.

[0089] The constructible utensil of FIG. 5 includes a paperboard (or other suitable foundation material) blank shaped to match the intended packing location (which for this implementation is under a lid to help maintain the constructible utensil in a clean and sanitary condition, but other locations are possible). The perimeter can thus be shaped to match the container mounting/attachment location; frequently it is circular, such as for a yogurt container. Other perimeter shapes are possible and as varied as possible opening shapes.

[0090] The desired perimeter shape is cut, and a number of interior scores and cuts are formed within the blank. The cuts form a bullet-shaped functional portion that is hingedly fixed to the interior of the blank. A pair of lateral scores connecting ends of the cut to the exterior form hinges that allow the bullet-shaped functional portion to be displaced from the plane of the blank and rotated 180 degrees about the hinging lateral scores, so the functional portion now extends past the opening-shaped perimeter. Scores on the functional portion include a typical curved score pattern that are symmetric about a fold axis. That fold axis is aligned with a score on the interior portion of the blank, and thus allows the structure to be easily folded about the fold axis to produce a constructed utensil for use with the container. The constructible utensil thus saves material and folding costs as compared to the reference spoonlid system described herein.

[0091] FIG. 6 illustrates a constructible utensil 600 including an improved scoring pattern. Utensil 600 includes a pair of scores 605, which may be curved as shown but are not required to be such, that are shaped to converge when moving from a bowl-region towards the handle portion. Scores 605 do not intersect but turn at inflection points 610 in the score pattern. The scores continue from each inflection point 610 and produce parallel linear score portions 615 that extend from inflection points 610 to the rear of the handle region. Linear score portions 615 are, in preferred embodiments, parallel to the longitudinal axis and slightly offset an equal amount. A die to produce the scoring pattern of FIG. 6 is more economical to produce and can provide millions more impressions, which greatly reduces the unit/cost of the constructible utensil. Further, the scoring pattern of FIG. 6 results in a more predictable uniform bending/folding about scores 605 when the handle region is folded about the longitudinal axis.

[0092] FIG. 7 illustrates a constructible utensil delivery system 100 including a container 105 with an overwrap 110 as delivered to a prospective consumer. FIG. 8 illustrates constructible utensil delivery system 100 with overwrap 110 partially pulled back to reveal the integrated unconstructed constructible utensil. Container 105 is illustrated as an inverted regular conical frustum having a top opening, a bottom base, and a sidewall extending between the bottom base and the top opening. The sidewall defines a cavity for receipt and storage of a foodstuff, and a lid closes and seals the top opening. Container 105 is often made of a thin-walled plastic material. Container 105 is used in the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it being understood that container 105 may vary greatly in shape, length, height, and width from what is shown. Container 105 may be implemented in other regular and irregular shapes, such as for example a regular or irregular parallelepiped having rectilinear faces. For a food container, typically there is a planar base (e.g., circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, or other regular or irregular polygon having 5-8 sides), and a top opening parallel to the base, with one or more sidewalls extending from the base to the opening defining the cavity.

[0093] Overwrap 110 is a stiff yet flexible paperboard material that has the properties required of a constructible utensil (thickness, stiffness, bendability, and the like) to be delivered by constructible utensil delivery system 100. Some implementations may not be paper stock but may be paper-like (e.g., other plant fiber besides tree fiber) or a calcium carbonate or an environmentally friendly suitable material that can be biodegradable and/or compostable, the materials as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/357,557 filed Jan. 24, 2021 (attorney docket ECOT 7006 US), the contents of which are expressly incorporated in their entirety by reference into the present patent application, as mentioned above.

[0094] Overwrap 110 is sized and shaped to preferably extend more than once around a container perimeter defined as the collection of all the sidewalls. By extending more than once around the container perimeter, overwrap 110 includes a free end 115 that overlaps a fixed end 120; the magnitude (length) of an overlapping portion 125 may be adjusted as described herein. Overwrap 110 is fixed to an outside exterior of the sidewall in many different ways. For example, fixed end 120 may be adhered to the outside exterior using an adhesive that is semi-tacky or permanent. A permanent adhesive ensures that overwrap 110 remains attached to container 105. A semi-tacky adhesive allows overwrap 110 to be removed after use.

[0095] Free end 115 is releasably secured (e.g., to a section of overwrap 110) using a semi-tacky releasable adhesive. The releasable adhesive or other securing mechanism secures free end 115 to overwrap 110 in a way that holds overwrap 110 in place during shipment and distribution yet is releasable to permit free end 115 to be unsealed and opened. Some implementations may further employ a sealed plastic bag or a second level overwrap that is shrink-wrapped or the like to container 105 which secures overwrap 110 in position.

[0096] A section of overwrap 110 covered by overlapping portion 125 includes a constructible utensil 130. Constructible utensil 130 is defined in or integrated with the section of overwrap 110 that is covered over by overlapping portion 125. For constructible utensil delivery system 100, constructible utensil 130 is completely covered by overlapping portion 125, which helps maintain it in a sanitary and clean condition to properly be used for serving foodstuff to be eaten.

[0097] Constructible utensil 130 has a length and width, the length greater than the width, and with the length equal to or less than a width of overwrap 110. Constructible utensil 130 is disposed vertically (the length extending between the bottom base and the top opening, and the width extending along the container perimeter). In this way, a reduced amount of overwrap 110 may be used (e.g., the length of overwrap 110 may be just sufficient to cover constructible utensil 130 before removal and the width of overwrap 110 is just greater than the length of constructible utensil 130, giving enough perimeter around the utensil to hold it into place).

[0098] Constructible utensil 130 is preferably defined in the section of overwrap 110 to be covered up by overlapping portion 125 using a series of perforations or other defined-tear propagation technique that allows a consumer to remove constructible utensil 130 from overwrap 110. That portion of overwrap 110 defining constructible utensil 130 cannot have permanent adhesive (but may use semi-tacky adhesive) holding overwrap 110 to the sidewall, or the consumer would not be able to remove constructible utensil 130. Permanent adhesive would have to be used outside the perimeter of constructible utensil 130. Note that it is preferred, but not required, that free edges of constructible utensil 130 match, or are otherwise preformed by shaping, fixed end 120. Thus, a handle and one lateral edge do not need to be torn or removed to separate constructible utensil 130 from overwrap 110. Other implementations may have a greater extent of perforations extending around a perimeter of constructible utensil 130, requiring more removal time and effort for a consumer, which can risk inadvertent damage to constructible utensil 130 as it is removed.

[0099] In operation, the consumer lifts free end 115 and peels overlapping portion 125 off of container 105 to reveal the underlying constructible utensil 130 defined in the revealed portion of overwrap 110. The consumer separates off constructible utensil 130 from overwrap 110 to hold an independent and discrete unconstructed constructible utensil 130 in hand. The consumer, if not having already done so, exposes the foodstuff-containing cavity of container 105 (e.g., removing the lid from the top opening) and constructs constructible utensil 130 to produce a utensil that the consumer then uses to consume the foodstuff from container 105.

[0100] FIG. 9 illustrates a first alternate constructible utensil delivery system 300 including a container 305 with an overwrap 310 as delivered to a prospective consumer. FIG. 10 illustrates first alternate constructible utensil delivery system 300 with overwrap 310 partially pulled back to reveal the integrated constructible utensil 130. Except as expressly detailed, or where context clearly requires a different conclusion, components and elements of first alternate constructible utensil delivery system 300 conform to the corresponding components and elements of constructible utensil delivery system 100 described herein. Differences between first alternate constructible utensil delivery system 300 and constructible utensil delivery system 100 include orientation of constructible utensil 130 horizontally (the length extending in the direction of the container perimeter and the width extending between the bottom base and top opening) instead of vertically a free end 315 covering a greater overlapping portion 125 (at least a length of constructible utensil 130 rather than its width) and a fixed end 320 illustrating a utensil definition that can also make it easier for a consumer to identify and access constructible utensil 130 once overlapping portion 125 is peeled away.

[0101] As illustrated, fixed end 320 is notched and preformed having portions of free lateral edges of constructible utensil 130 pre-cut and exposed from fixed end 320 and a limited perforation 325 added, which reduces the amount of tearing required to remove. This is consistent with an implementation of constructible utensil delivery system 100 described herein. In some implementations, fixed end 320 is square across its entire width and would require more time and effort to remove, possibly increasing risk of inadvertent damage to constructible utensil 130 during removal.

[0102] There are reasons why a manufacturer may prefer an implementation of first alternate constructible utensil delivery system 300 over constructible utensil delivery system 100. These reasons include a height of container 305 (or a width of overwrap 310 associated with container 305) being less than a desired length of constructible utensil 130, or the manufacturer preferring a horizontal disposition of constructible utensil 130 on container 305 (such to present advertising/marketing copy using overwrap 310 or constructible utensil 130 in a particular way). U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/797,446 (attorney docket ECOT 7012 US, incorporated by reference into the present patent application as mentioned above), includes alternative shapes for constructible utensil 130, score patterns, and some discussion regarding adjustments of length of a constructible utensil 130 that could impact orientation of the utensil and dimensions of the overwrap.

[0103] FIG. 11 illustrates a second alternate constructible utensil delivery system 500 including a container 505 with an overwrap 510 as delivered to a prospective consumer. FIG. 12 illustrates second alternate constructible utensil delivery system 500 with overwrap 510 partially pulled back to reveal the integrated constructible utensil.

[0104] Except as expressly detailed, or where context clearly requires a different conclusion, components and elements of second alternate constructible utensil delivery system 500 conform to the corresponding components and elements of first alternate constructible utensil delivery system 300 described herein. Differences between second alternate constructible utensil delivery system 500 and first alternate constructible utensil delivery system 300 include a magnitude of overlapping portion 125 (i.e., it covers only a portion of constructible utensil 130, exposing a rear end of the handle portion while sealing and protecting an opposing food-contacting functional end), and fixed end 520 is illustrated completely square and therefore a perforation line 530 extends completely around the utensil perimeter (except in some cases for a very small area where the opposing food-contacting functional end aligns with fixed end 520).

[0105] As illustrated, fixed end 520 is NOT notched and preformed. More copy space is provided on overwrap 510 in this configuration (access when free end 515 is peeled away), which may be desirable in that overwrap 510 may be shorter than overwrap 310 for the same container and constructible utensil, as overlapping portion 125 is shorter in second alternate constructible utensil delivery system 500.

[0106] There are reasons why a manufacturer may prefer an implementation of second alternate constructible utensil delivery system 500 over constructible utensil delivery system 100 (similar to the reasons of selecting first alternate constructible utensil delivery system 300 over constructible utensil delivery system 100) or over first alternate constructible utensil delivery system 300. These reasons include reducing a manufacturing cost by reducing a length of overwrap 510 as compared to overwrap 310 to partially expose the horizontally disposed integrated constructible utensil 130, and/or improving consumer awareness of the availability of constructible utensil 130 prior to the consumer' s purchase of a food container. A consumer unfamiliar with constructible utensil delivery system 100 or first alternate constructible utensil delivery system 300 may not realize that a constructible utensil is available for use and may therefore forego purchase. Second alternate constructible utensil delivery system 500 may address some of those concerns of the consumer without contaminating the food-contacting end. In this sense, partially exposing a vertically disposed constructible utensil is not preferred when the associated container includes foodstuff. However as other contexts exist for a container requiring a dispensing utensil for non-foodstuff contents, in some instances a partially exposed vertically disposed constructible utensil may be implemented without the same concerns about preservation of a sanitary condition for the non-food-contacting portion of constructible utensil 130 (which is the food-contacting portion for foodstuff containers).

[0107] In some embodiments, it will be desirable to provide some type of mechanism to maintain the lateral edges of the body (e.g., near the indicia) in a generally folded arrangement to preserve a desired minimum capacity/shape to the formed bowl (and to maintain those lateral edges extending upwards to be easily grasped to permit taster 130 to be picked up from a work surface, especially with the bowl shape retained). The material selection of the body and the depth and nature of the formation of the scores are one way to provide for a retaining force resisting unfolding when a folding force is removed. In other embodiments, some type of tacky adhesive or interconnecting tabs may be used to hold the lateral edges together and the body in the folded mode.

[0108] FIG. 13 illustrates a pre-constructed constructible scoop 700, and FIG. 14 illustrates a constructed format for the scoop of FIG. 13. Constructible scoop 700 includes a body 705 that is planar and deformable (e.g., bendable, foldable, and/or otherwise transformable) made from a suitable planar stock. Body 705 includes a handle portion joined to a scoop portion, and a plurality of scores defining the portions and aiding in formation of a handle from the handle portion and a scoop at the scoop portion when constructed. Body 705 is generally circular though some embodiments may be elliptical or ovoid or the like.

[0109] The plurality of scores include a diameterial score 710 extending from a rear edge of the handle portion to a vertex 715. Diameterial score 710 extends along a diameter that divides body 705 into two generally symmetric halves. For other shapes, score 710 will not be a diameter but some other line with symmetry (e.g., a major or minor axis of an elliptical format).

[0110] The plurality of scores also include a pair of handle scores 720 that each extend from vertex 715 to an edge of body 705. Handle scores 720 form an angle less than ninety degrees with respect to diameterial score 710. The particular angle formed by these scores is related to the radius and/or length and width of body 705 as well as the placement of vertex 715 along the longitudinal axis. The length and width and placement of vertex 715 affect the defined volume of the constructed scoop made from constructible scoop 700. Note that the indicated score pattern is not necessarily reflective of which side of body 705 supports any given score. For example, different implementations may provide for any particular score to fold upwardly or downwardly (as seen from a top view such as FIG. 13). And in some cases, irrespective of which direction any particular score folds, bends, or transforms, a score, deboss, pattern, or the like may be on either side of body 705. (That is, it is not necessary that a top score requires that body 705 must fold either particular direction, but any given implementation typically has a preference for fold directions of the score patterns as implemented, in order to produce a desired configuration for the constructed utensil or implement or device.

[0111] In addition to the plurality of scores, body 705 is preferably provided with one or more optional volume indicators and/or corresponding volumetric labels for a closed volume 805 (closed in this context means closed at the bottom and sides with a top opening). Volume indicators provide a user with a visual calibration (which may be approximate) of a volume of material disposed in the scoop of a constructed scoop as shown in FIG. 14 when the material fills the scoop portion to any particular indicator. A top lateral edge of the scoop portion may be one such indicator.

[0112] The handle portion also includes a pair of construction indicia 740 (e.g., the pair of bend-to-touch dots) and a colored score identifier 745. These indicia visually guide the user on how to manipulate body 705 to construct the scoop. The indicated action, in cooperation with the arrangement of the plurality of scores, initiates the constructing action to produce the final result. Note that bend-to-touch may in some instances be an indication to touch a backside of the dots together, such as when score 710 lifts relative to the lateral edges so the lateral edges move below score 710. Formation of the score pattern and particularly longitudinal score 710 to have a predisposition to folding in an appropriate and particular direction aids in any disambiguation as to which side of the dots are to be touched. In some cases, additional instructions may be useful and/or necessary to indicate to a user how to manipulate body 705. For example, the instruction text refers to a green line which references colored (i.e., green, though any distinguishing color or pattern may be used) score identifier 745. In this case, score 710, identified by colored score indicator 745, is pushed up to bring back sides of construction indicia 40 into contact.

[0113] In operation, body 705 is manipulated by bending, folding, and the like about the score pattern in order to touch the backsides of construction indicia 740. This action propagates bending, folding, and transformation forces along the score pattern so that vertex 715 sinks relative to the lateral edges to form closed volume 805. The scoop is completely constructed when the dots are touched; however, a partially constructed scoop may be useful in some contexts. The user grips the handle (formed from the handle portion) and operates the scoop to capture a desired quantity of material within closed volume 805.

[0114] In some embodiments, a tacky adhesive or other connection mechanism may be disposed on the backsides of the dots to maintain the scoop in the constructed mode. The connection mechanism may be temporary, allowing for deconstruction and flattening, or permanent to maintain the scoop in the constructed mode between uses and after the user releases the handle portion.

[0115] In some embodiments, it will be desirable to provide some type of mechanism to maintain the lateral edges of the body (e.g., near the indicia) in a generally folded arrangement to preserve a desired minimum capacity/shape to the formed bowl (and to maintain those lateral edges extending upwards to be easily grasped to permit the constructible taster to be picked up from a work surface, especially with the bowl shape retained). The material selection of the body and the depth and nature of the formation of the scores are one way to provide for a retaining force resisting unfolding when a folding force is removed. In other embodiments, some type of tacky adhesive or interconnecting tabs may be used to hold the lateral edges together and the body in the folded mode. FIG. 15A illustrates a first embodiment of these interconnecting tabs (consisting of a slit formed in a big tab, plus a little tab), with the invention in a pre-folded form. FIG. 15B illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 15A, with the invention in a folded and locked form. FIG. 16A illustrates a second embodiment of these interconnecting tabs (a first tab formed by a rounded slit in one end of the utensil, plus a second tab consisting of the other end of the utensil), with the invention in a partially folded and pre-locked form. FIG. 16B illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 16A, with the utensil in a completely folded and locked form.

[0116] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention 100 in which food container 105 has the shape of a regular parallelepiped (the shape of a typical food box), and planar utensil element 130 and overwrap are attached to an end of a upper lid 1701 of the container 105. Alternatively, utensil element and overwrap 110 can be attached to other surfaces of container 105, e.g., one of the side flaps 1705. In the illustrated embodiment, food container 105 has a rectangular lower base (floor) 1706, four side walls 1707, two side flaps 1705, upper lid 1701, and lower lid 1702. In this embodiment, hygienic overwrap 110 may have the same shape as utensil element 130 or may be slightly larger, e.g., in the shape of a rectangle, so that overwrap 110 completely covers utensil element 130 plus a little more (safety margin). Note that in FIG. 17, the food container 105 is held together during transit by means of a tab 1708 in upper lid 1701 fitting into a slit 1709 in lower lid 1702.

[0117] FIG. 17 illustrates two different points in time (states). In state a, the first time state, element 130a is seen attached to the underside of upper lid 1701, and protected from coming into contact with the food in the container 105 by overwrap 110a. State a corresponds to those times occurring before the container 105 has been opened by the consumer, and to the time right after the consumer has opened the upper lid 1701. The second state, state b, represents subsequent times, i.e., those times occurring after the consumer has opened the upper lid 1701, and has unfurled the portion of lid 1701 containing the utensil element 130. The unfurling process comprises pivoting the 130a/110a combination in a leftward direction away from the major portion of upper lid 1701 along fold 1703, then pivoting the utensil element 130b in a leftward direction away from overwrap 110b along perforations 120. In a final step (not illustrated), the consumer separates utensil element 130b from overwrap 110b by tearing along perforations 120, freeing element 130b for use in its intended purpose as an eating utensil for consuming the food within container 105. In an embodiment, the length of the perforations 120b can be shorter than what is depicted in FIG. 17, i.e., there can be a longer space between the top of the right hand edge of element 130b and the top of the left hand edge of overwrap 110b. The purpose of this longer space in this embodiment is to provide for a smoother shape to the bowl portion of the utensil that is formed after utensil element 130b is folded into shape, which can help to insure that the consumer using the utensil does not catch a sharp edge of the utensil on his or her lip.

[0118] The food containers 105 of FIGS. 17 and 18 can have shapes other than the shapes depicted in FIGS. 17 and 18. For example, food container 105 can have the shape of a clamshell, which is a common shape used for disposable lunch trays in cafeterias. Containers 105 can be made of many different materials, such as the paperboard-like materials described above, plant-based substitutes for Styrofoam, etc. The food containers 105 may or may not be made from the same material(s) as utensil elements 130 and overwraps 110. Various combinations of shapes and materials can be used for containers 105, utensil elements 130, and overwraps 110. In all the various combinations of shapes and materials, utensil elements 130 can be protected by overwraps 110 as described herein.

[0119] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention 100 in which food container 105 has the shape of a regular parallelepiped (food box), and planar utensil element 130 and its corresponding overwrap 100 are a side appendage 1804 to an upper lid 1803 of container 105. Thus, in the FIG. 18 embodiment, utensil element 130 is attached directly to food container 105. Container 105 comprises a rectangular lower base (floor) 1806, four side walls 1807, two side flaps 1805, lower lid 1809, and upper flap 1801 foldably coupled to upper lid 1803. During transit, upper flap 1801 is secured to lower lid 1802 via a tab 1808 on upper flap 1801 fitting into a slit 1809 formed in lower lid 1802. Side appendage 1804 is coupled to upper lid 1803 via a series of tearable perforations 120. During transit, side appendage 1804 can be folded under upper lid 1803 in order to provide additional protection to utensil element 130 beyond what is provided by overwrap 110. Tearing along the perforations 120 causes utensil element 130 to separate from lid 1803, and can also result in the separation of the overwrap 110 from lid 1803.

[0120] Alternative to utensil element 130 being attached to lid 1803, element 130 can be attached to one of the two side flaps 1805, or to the lower lid 1802. In the FIG. 18 embodiment, as with the embodiment of FIG. 17, overwrap 110 can be bigger than element 130, e.g., the upper and lower edges of overwrap 110 can be colinear with the upper and lower edges of upper lid 1803, respectively. Note that in the FIG. 18 embodiment, the lower lid 1802 is larger than lower lid 1702 of FIG. 17, but in other embodiments, lower lid 1809 has the same size as lower lid 1709, or a smaller size than lower lid 1709. As with FIG. 17, the length of the perforations 120 can be shorter than what is depicted in FIG. 18, i.e., there can be a longer space between the top of the left hand edge of element 130 and the top of the right hand edge of lid 1803. The purpose of this longer space in this embodiment is to provide for a smoother shape to the bowl portion of the utensil that is formed after utensil element 130 is folded into shape, which can help to insure that the consumer using the utensil does not catch a sharp edge of the utensil on his or her lip.

[0121] In all of the embodiments discussed in this patent application, more than one utensil element 130 can be coupled to the container 105, each element protected by a corresponding overwrap 110. Also, a given overwrap 110 can protect more than one utensil element 130.

[0122] FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of an embodiment 100 of the present invention in which the bottom of food container 105 has a generally circular shape, and the upper lid 1901 of food container 105 has a generally rectangular shape. Container 105 has four side walls 1907, a lower lid 1903, and two side flaps 1902 that are held together in transit via a tab 1908 at the free end of one of the side flaps 1902 that fits into a slit 1909 in the other side flap 1902. In this embodiment, utensil element 130 is attached directly to container 105. Specifically, utensil element 130 is attached to upper lid 1901 via a series of tearable perforations 120. FIGS. 17, 18, and 19 all show overwrap 110 as being coterminous with utensil element 130; but in all the embodiments discussed in this patent application, overwrap 110 can be larger than element 130. For example, in FIG. 19 the lower edge of overwrap 110 can extend to the upper right edge of lid 1901. Prior to moving food container 105 from one place to another, the combination of element 130 and overwrap 110 can be folded under upper lid 1901 to give extra protection to element 130. Elements 130, 110 and lid 1901 can in turn be folded under lower lid 1903 during transit. Tab 1908 has a slightly different shape than the tabs 1708 and 1808 shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, respectively. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the interconnecting tabs and slits discussed in this patent application can have many different shapes and sizes, and still achieve their intended purpose of securing in a (at least temporarily) locked position two different items made of paperboard-like material. As with FIGS. 17 and 18, the length of the perforations 120 can be shorter than what is depicted in FIGS. 17 and 18, i.e., there can be a longer space between the lower right edge of element 130 and the upper right edge of lid 1901. The purpose of this longer space in this embodiment is to provide for a smoother shape to the bowl portion of the utensil that is formed after utensil element 130 is folded into shape, which can help to insure that the consumer using the utensil does not catch a sharp edge of the utensil on his or her lip.

[0123] FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention 100 in which planar utensil element 130 has been folded about a perpendicular score 201 before being affixed to container 105. Folding element 130 in this manner allows for a relatively long element 130 to be conveniently attached to the surface of a relatively short container 105.

[0124] FIG. 21 illustrates a scoop embodiment 2100 of the present invention. FIG. 21 illustrates the planar precursor of the scoop 2100, and FIG. 22 illustrates the scoop 2100 of FIG. 21 after it has been constructed (folded). Constructible scoop 2100 includes a body 2105 that is planar in the precursor form, and deformable (e.g., bendable, foldable, and/or otherwise transformable). Body 2105 is made from a paperboard-like material or any other material that is mentioned in this patent application. Body 2105 includes two generally symmetric handle portions 2109 joined to a scoop portion 2205, and a plurality of scores 2110, 2120 defining the boundaries between the handle portions 2109 and the bowl portion 2205. Scores 2110, 2120 show where the precursor is to be folded to form the constructed scoop 2100. In the illustrated embodiment, body 2105 has a complex perimeter shape, including a rounded (some cases circular) proximal end joined to a middle portion including diverging lateral edges extending to twin distal ends. A rear edge of the precursor is notched, with a notch point 2107 located at a longitudinal axis of body 2105. The notch point 2107 defines the boundary between the pair of diverging handle elements 2109.

[0125] Score 2110 extends longitudinally from notch point 2107 to vertex 2115. Score 2110 extends along the longitudinal axis that divides body 2105 into two generally symmetric halves. In some embodiments, item 2110 is not a score, but rather is a slit, i.e., the material of the precursor is completely cut through (as opposed to the embodiment where item 2110 is a score, which implies that the material is just indented to form a fold line).

[0126] The plurality of scores also include a pair of handle scores 2120 that each extend from vertex 2115 to a distal tip of handle element 2109. Handle scores 2120 each form an angle less than ninety degrees with respect to longitudinal score (or cut) 2110. The angle formed by these scores is related to the length and width of body 2105 as well as the placement of vertex 2115 along the longitudinal axis. The length and width and placement of vertex 2115 affect the defined volume of the constructed scoop 2100. Note that the indicated score pattern is not necessarily reflective of which side of body 2105 supports any given score. For example, different implementations may provide for any particular score to fold upwardly or downwardly (with respect to the plane of sheet 15). And in some cases, irrespective of which direction any particular score folds, bends, or transforms, a score, deboss, pattern, or the like may be on either side of body 2105. (That is, it is not necessary that a top score requires that body 2105 must fold either particular direction, but any given implementation typically has a preference for fold directions of the score patterns as implemented in order to produce a desired configuration for the constructed utensil (or implement or device) 2100.

[0127] In addition to the plurality of scores, body 2105 may be provided with one or more optional volume indicators and/or corresponding volumetric labels for the closed volume 2205 that is formed in the constructed utensil (see FIG. 22). Closed in this context means that volume 2205 is closed at its bottom and sides, and has a top opening). Volume indicators provide a user with a visual calibration (which may be approximate) of a volume of material disposed in the scoop 2205 when the material fills the scoop portion to a given indicator. A top lateral edge of the scoop 2205 may be considered to be one such indicator.

[0128] The handle portions 2109 may include a pair of construction indicia (e.g., the pair of bend to touch dots as elsewhere described in this written description) and/or a colored score identifier. These indicia and identifiers visually guide the user on how to manipulate body 2105 to construct the scoop 2205. The indicated action, in cooperation with the arrangement of the plurality of scores 2110, 2120, guides the constructing action to produce the final result. Note that bend to touch may in some instances be an indication to touch a backside of the dots together, such as when longitudinal score (or cut) 2110 lifts relative to the lateral edges of element 2105 so the lateral edges move below longitudinal score (or cut) 2110. Formation of the score pattern, and particularly longitudinal score (or cut) 2110 can indicate a presumption that folding element 2105 should be done in a particular direction, aiding in any disambiguation as to which side of the dots are to be touched.

[0129] In some cases, additional instructions may be useful and/or necessary to indicate to a user how to manipulate body 2105. For example, the instruction text may refer to a green line which references a certain color, i.e., green. The indicator green can indicate that the portion of element 2105 near score (or cut) 2110 should be pushed down to form the constructed utensil 2100. In other examples, any distinguishing color or pattern may be used as an identifier.

[0130] In operation, body 2105 is manipulated by bending, folding, or the like about the score pattern in order to touch the front sides of any construction indicia to each other. This action propagates bending, folding, and transformation forces along the score pattern so that vertex 2115 sinks relative to the lateral edges of element 105 to form closed volume 2205. The scoop is completely constructed when the dots or other indicia are touched or otherwise followed. In some cases, however, a partially constructed scoop may be useful in some contexts. The user grips the handle of the constructed utensil 2100, which is formed from joining together the two handle portions 2109, and uses the scoop 2205 to capture a desired quantity of material within the closed volume of the scoop 2205.

[0131] In cases where 2110 is a cut and not a score, the two handle elements 2109 slide past cut 2110 and then are joined together when the utensil 2100 is constructed.

[0132] In some embodiments, a tacky adhesive, glue, or other connection mechanism, such as an interconnecting tab and slit, may be disposed on handle elements 2109 to maintain the constructed utensil 2100 in the constructed mode. The connection mechanism may be temporary, allowing for later deconstruction and flattening of utensil 2100, or permanent, to maintain the utensil 2100 in the constructed mode between uses and after the user releases the handle of the utensil 2100.

[0133] FIG. 23 illustrates an alternative embodiment of planar utensil element 2300, in which a pair of generally symmetric handle elements 2301, 2302 merge into a semicircular bowl element 2305. In an embodiment, the outer edges (shown as lower edges in FIG. 23) of handle elements 2301, 2302 are curved in regions 2311 where elements 2301, 2302 merge into the outer edge of bowl element 2305. The lengths of handle elements 2301, 2302 can be greater than the diameter of bowl element 2305. In one embodiment, each handle element 2301, 2302 has a length of 3, and bowl element 2305 has a diameter 2.875. Each handle element 2303, 2304 typically has a score (fold line) 2303, 2304 running down its midline. The scores 2303, 2304 meet at a point 2306 that is at or near the center of the semicircular bowl element 2305. A V-shaped groove 2307 is formed in sides of the handle elements 2301, 2302 that are proximate point 2306. When the utensil element 2300 is folded to become a usable utensil 2400 (which is shown in FIG. 24), the handle elements 2303, 2304 are partially folded about their respective scores 2303, 2304 in order to form the completed handle 2401. The handle elements 2303, 2304 can be held together by a tacky adhesive, glue, or another type of locking mechanism, such as the tab 2308 and slit 2309 that are illustrated in FIG. 23. In the illustrated embodiment, tab 2308 has a pair of detents in the area where tab 2308 protrudes from score 2304; these detents assist in the locking the tab 2308 in place once the tab 2308 as been inserted into the slit 2309. Tab 2308 can be formed in the same plane as all the other parts of utensil element 2300, e.g., a score can be formed around the periphery of tab 2308; then as element 2300 is folded to become utensil 2400, tab 2308 can be punched out of the plane handle element 2302 before tab 2308 is inserted into slit 2309 to lock the two handle elements 2301, 2302 together to form handle 2401.

[0134] FIG. 24 illustrates the result of constructing finished utensil 2400 by bringing the handle elements 2301, 2302 towards each other and slightly bending elements 2301, 2302 about their respective scores 2303, 2304. (For purposes of simplicity, tab 2308 and slit 2309 are not shown in FIG. 24.) In the illustrated embodiment, element 2301 lies above element 2302, but it is equally feasible that element 2302 lies above element 2301. The resultant utensil 2400 comprises a conically shaped bowl 2305 and an extended handle 2401. Utensil 2400 can be used to scoop food (e.g., powdered food) or liquid out of a larger container. To facilitate the use of bowl 2305 as a measuring scoop, concentric rings or other indicators can be marked on the inner surface of bowl 2305 so the user can determine how much powder or liquid is in bowl 2305 at any given time.

[0135] FIG. 25 illustrates utensil element 2500, which is an alternative to utensil element 2300. Instead of V-shaped groove 2307, element 2500 comprises slit 2507. As used throughout this written description, slit means that the paperboard-like material of element 2500 is completely cut through along line 2507. Other differences between elements 2500 and 2300 include arcuate scores 2510 in element 2500 that match the curvature of the periphery of bowl element 2505, the fact that handle elements 2501 and 2502 are shorter than elements 2301 and 2302, and fact that the outer edges 2508, 2509 of elements 2501, 2502 are arcuately shaped rather than straight. In some embodiments, elements 2501, 2502 can have different lengths. Any or all of these differences can appear in any given embodiment. In other words, it is possible to mix and match any of the features that are shown in FIGS. 23 and 25, in any possible combination.

[0136] FIGS. 26 through 28 show an alternative embodiment for bringing the handle elements 2301 and 2302 (or 2501 and 2502) together to form the completed handle 2401. As shown in FIG. 26, one of the handle elements (2302 or 2502) is first folded about its longitudinal score (2304 or 2504) before being joined to the other handle element (2301 or 2501). FIG. 26 shows element 2302 (or 2502) being folded, but it is just as feasible to fold the other handle element (2301 or 2501).

[0137] FIG. 27 corresponds to the FIG. 26 embodiment, and illustrates a point in time that is midway through the construction of the constructed utensil 2400. FIG. 27 does show tab 2308, positioned along the longitudinal score line 2303 (or 2503). In this case, slit 2309 is cut through the longitudinal score line 2304 (or 2504) of handle element 2302 (or 2502). In alternative embodiments, the handle elements are not held together by a tab 2308 and slit 2309, but by some other means, such as a tacky adhesive or glue.

[0138] FIG. 28 is similar to FIG. 27, and differs mainly in that it shows a later point in time of the fabrication of constructed utensil 2400, a point in time just before the handle 2401 is fully formed. Once the handle 2401 is fully formed, a corresponding tab will fit into slit 2309 to keep the handle 2401 intact.

[0139] The system and methods above have been described in general terms as an aid to understanding details of preferred embodiments of the present invention. In the description herein, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of components and/or methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. Some features and benefits of the present invention are realized in such modes and are not required in every case. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that an embodiment of the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other apparatus, systems, assemblies, methods, components, materials, parts, and/or the like. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not specifically shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of embodiments of the present invention.

[0140] Reference throughout this specification to one embodiment, an embodiment, or a specific embodiment means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention and not necessarily in all embodiments. Thus, respective appearances of the phrases in one embodiment, in an embodiment, or in a specific embodiment in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics of any specific embodiment of the present invention may be combined in any suitable manner with one or more other embodiments. It is to be understood that other variations and modifications of the embodiments of the present invention described and illustrated herein are possible in light of the teachings herein and are to be considered as part of the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0141] It will also be appreciated that one or more of the elements depicted in the drawings/figures can also be implemented in a more separated or integrated manner, or even removed or rendered as inoperable in certain cases, as is useful in accordance with a particular application.

[0142] Additionally, any signal arrows in the drawings/Figures should be considered only as exemplary, and not limiting, unless otherwise specifically noted. Furthermore, the term or as used herein is generally intended to mean and/or unless otherwise indicated. Combinations of components or steps will also be considered as being noted, where terminology is foreseen as rendering the ability to separate or combine is unclear.

[0143] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, a, an, and the includes plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of in includes in and on unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0144] The foregoing description of illustrated embodiments of the present invention, including what is described in the Abstract, is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed herein. While specific embodiments of, and examples for, the invention are described herein for illustrative purposes only, various equivalent modifications are possible within the spirit and scope of the present invention, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate. As indicated, these modifications may be made to the present invention in light of the foregoing description of illustrated embodiments of the present invention and are to be included within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0145] Thus, while the present invention has been described herein with reference to particular embodiments thereof, a latitude of modification, various changes and substitutions are intended in the foregoing disclosures, and it will be appreciated that in some instances some features of embodiments of the invention will be employed without a corresponding use of other features without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as set forth. Therefore, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the essential scope and spirit of the present invention. It is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular terms used in following claims and/or to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include any and all embodiments and equivalents falling within the scope of the appended claims. The scope of the invention is to be determined solely by the following claims: