CONSUMER PRODUCT PACKAGE AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLY

Abstract

A consumer product package is provided. The consumer product package includes a first container having a first inner wall that defines a first compartment and a first outer wall. The consumer product package also includes a second container having a second inner wall that defines a second compartment that faces the first compartment in a closed position and a second outer wall. The consumer product package also includes a first consumer product removably secured within the first compartment. The consumer product package also includes a second consumer product removably secured within the second compartment. A magnetic connection between the first consumer product and the second consumer product secures the first container to the second container in the closed position. A method of assembly of the consumer product package is also provided.

Claims

1. A consumer product package comprising: a first container having a first inner wall that defines a first compartment and a first outer wall; a second container having a second inner wall that defines a second compartment that faces the first compartment in a closed position and a second outer wall; a first consumer product removably secured within the first compartment; and a second consumer product removably secured within the second compartment, wherein a magnetic connection between the first consumer product and the second consumer product secures the first container to the second container in the closed position.

2. The consumer product package of claim 1, wherein the first consumer product is a stand for the second consumer product.

3. The consumer product package of claim 1, further comprising a hinge connecting the first container to the second container.

4. The consumer product package of claim 1, wherein the first consumer product extends into the second compartment in the closed position.

5. The consumer product package of claim 1, wherein the second consumer product extends into the first compartment in the closed position.

6. The consumer product package of claim 1, wherein the second consumer product comprises a ferromagnetic material.

7. The consumer product package of claim 1, wherein the first consumer product comprises a ferromagnetic material.

8. The consumer product package of claim 1, wherein the first consumer product is removably secured to the first compartment with a mechanical connection.

9. The consumer product package of claim 8, wherein a first removal force required to sever the mechanical connection between the first consumer product and first compartment is stronger than an attraction force of the magnetic connection between the second consumer product and the first consumer product.

10. The consumer product package of claim 1, wherein the second consumer product is removably secured within the second compartment with a mechanical connection.

11. The consumer product package of claim 10, wherein a second removal force required to sever the mechanical connection between the second consumer product and the second compartment is stronger than an attraction force of the magnetic connection between the second consumer product and the first consumer product.

12. The consumer product package of claim 1, wherein the second consumer product is spaced apart from a bottom surface of the first compartment in the closed position.

13. The consumer product package of claim 1, wherein the first consumer product is spaced apart from a bottom surface of the second compartment in the closed position.

14. The consumer product package of claim 1, wherein the second consumer product is a shaving razor.

15. A method of assembling a consumer product package: providing a first container having a first inner wall that defines a first compartment and a first outer wall; providing a second container having a second inner wall that defines a second compartment that faces the first compartment in a closed position and a second outer wall; removably securing a first consumer product within the first compartment; removably securing a second consumer product within the second compartment; and securing the first container to the second container in the closed position with a magnetic connection between the first consumer product and the second consumer product.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the first consumer product is a stand for the second consumer product.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising connecting the first container to the second container with a hinge.

18. The method of claim 15, further comprising positioning at least a portion of the first consumer product within the second compartment in the closed position; and positioning at least a portion of the second consumer product within the first compartment in the closed position.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein said removably securing the first consumer product to the first compartment comprises mechanically securing the first consumer product to the first compartment; and wherein said removably securing the second consumer product to the second compartment comprises mechanically securing the second consumer product stand to the second compartment.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein a first removal force required to sever a mechanical connection of said removably securing the first consumer product within the first compartment is greater than an attraction force of the magnetic connection of said securing the first container to the second container in the closed position; and wherein a second removal force required to sever a mechanical connection of said removably securing the second consumer product within the second compartment is greater than the attraction force of the magnetic connection of said securing the first container to the second container in the closed position.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Many aspects of this disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following figures, which illustrate examples according to various embodiments.

[0009] FIGS. 1A through 1C are views of a conventional consumer product package;

[0010] FIG. 2A is a block diagram of a consumer product package in an open position, according to various embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 2B is a block diagram of the consumer product package of FIG. 2A in a closed position, according to various embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 2C is a block diagram of a cross-sectional view of the consumer product package of FIG. 2B taken along the line 2C-2C, according to various embodiments.

[0013] FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective views of a consumer product package in an open position, according to various embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 3C is a front view of the consumer product package of FIG. 3B in the open position.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the consumer product package of FIG. 3A in a closed position, according to various embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 5A is a front view of the consumer product package of FIG. 4 in the closed position.

[0017] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the consumer product package of FIG. 5A taken along the line A-A where the consumer product stand extends into the consumer product container, according to various embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of the consumer product package of FIG. 5A taken along the line A-A where the consumer product stand extends into the consumer product container, according to various embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the consumer product package of FIG. 5A taken along the line A-A where the consumer product extends into the consumer product stand container, according to various embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of the consumer product package of FIG. 5A taken along the line A-A where the consumer product extends into the consumer product stand container and where the consumer product stand extends into the consumer product container, according to various embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a side view of the stand of the consumer product package of FIG. 3A attached to a surface and the product magnetically connected to the stand, according to various embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a flowchart that depicts an example of one or more steps of a method for assembly the consumer product package of FIG. 3A, according to various embodiments.

[0023] It should be understood that the various embodiments are not limited to the examples illustrated in the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Introduction and Definitions

[0024] Various embodiments solve the above-mentioned problems and provide methods and devices useful for packaging a product in a package where the product itself may feature magnetic material which may be used to close the package.

[0025] The previously discussed conventional consumer product packages have significant drawbacks. For example, the box 10 of the '471 Patent features magnetic material (e.g. magnets and/or an iron sheet) within the package itself. Thus, the magnetic material is not part of a product housed within the box 10 which is ultimately used by a consumer. Consequently, when the box 10 is discarded after removing the product therefrom, the magnetic material is wasted. Since magnetic material is relatively expensive, this necessarily reduces the economic efficiency of the package. It was recognized that if the magnetic material used to close the package was implemented as part of the product rather than the package, then the magnetic material may not only be used to close the package but may further be utilized by the consumer when using the product.

[0026] Additionally, since magnetic material is considered not recyclable, the inclusion of magnetic material within the box 10 itself of the '471 Patent means that the box 10 is likely not recyclable. Thus, an additional drawback of the conventional package containing magnetic material is increased environmental waste. It was recognized that if the magnetic material was implemented as part of the product rather than the package, in addition to the benefits discussed above the package may be recyclable as it excludes magnetic material. Thus, in certain embodiments of the improved consumer product package, one advantage may include enhanced package recycling and thus reduced environmental waste.

[0027] It was further recognized that it may be advantageous to develop a package which features different portions of the product within different portions of the package connected by a hinge. These different portions may be portions of a consumer product (e.g. razor blade handle and razor blade stand) that feature a magnetic connection during routine use of the product by the consumer. Thus, it was recognized that by positioning these different components within different portions of the package connected by the hinge, the same magnetic connection may be used to not only hold the package in a closed position but also during routine use of the product by the consumer (e.g. when a user mounts the razor handle to the razor stand via. the magnetic connection when not using the razor blade assembly). Thus, in some embodiments of the improved package advantages may include not only incorporation of the magnetic material into the product which is not discarded but also demonstrating to the consumer the magnetic connection between the different parts of the product at the time of purchase in a retail store. Thus, the consumer may get a firsthand experience of the magnetic connection between the different parts of the product when the product is still in the consumer package.

[0028] There may be several advantages of providing a magnet as part of the consumer product (e.g., consumer product stand). For example, the magnet within the consumer product stand may be leveraged for more than just holding the consumer product (e.g. handle of a razor blade) by providing a closing and/or securing feature for the package, which provides for a more premium package design without adding significant added cost or requiring adhesives or mechanical closure mechanisms. Furthermore, since the magnet is provided on the consumer product (e.g. stand) rather than the package, the consumer is not throwing away the most expensive part of the package (i.e., the magnet) as with conventional consumer packages made from magnet material. The container may also be more easily recycled as magnets can be difficult to recycle.

[0029] This disclosure is written to describe to a person having ordinary skill in the art, who will understand that this disclosure is not limited to the specific examples or embodiments described. The examples and embodiments are single instances of the disclosure which will make a much larger scope apparent to the person having ordinary skill in the art. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by the person having ordinary skill in the art. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing examples and embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0030] All the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features. The examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to the person having ordinary skill in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application. Many variations and modifications may be made to the embodiments of the disclosure without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure. For example, unless otherwise indicated, the present disclosure is not limited to particular materials, reagents, reaction materials, manufacturing processes, or the like, as such can vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purposes of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. It is also possible in the present disclosure that steps can be executed in different sequence where this is logically possible.

[0031] All numeric values are herein assumed to be modified by the term about, whether or not explicitly indicated. The term about generally refers to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited value (for example, having the same function or result). In many instances, the term about may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

[0032] In everyday usage, indefinite articles (like a or an) precede countable nouns and noncountable nouns almost never take indefinite articles. It must be noted, therefore, that, as used in this specification and in the claims that follow, the singular forms a, an, and the include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a support includes a plurality of supports. Particularly when a single countable noun is listed as an element in a claim, this specification will generally use a phrase such as a single. For example, a single support.

[0033] Unless otherwise specified, all percentages indicating the amount of a component in a composition represent a percent by weight of the component based on the total weight of the composition. The term mol percent or mole percent generally refers to the percentage that the moles of a particular component are of the total moles that are in a mixture. The sum of the mole fractions for each component in a solution is equal to 1.

[0034] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit (unless the context clearly dictates otherwise), between the upper and lower limit of that range, and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range, is encompassed within the disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and are also encompassed within the disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the disclosure.

[0035] In this specification and in the claims that follow, reference will be made to a number of terms that shall be defined to have the following meanings unless a contrary intention is apparent.

[0036] Ferromagnetic material refers to any material that can be attracted to a magnet, such as nickel or cobalt or their alloys, for example. In one example, the ferromagnetic material is a ferrous strip either made of a magnetic grade of stainless steel, or an ordinary grade of ferric steel or other ferric metal that is treated to impart corrosion resistance. In another example, the ferric metal may be plated. e.g., with nickel, or coated with a protective coating, such as paint or epoxy. In yet another example, the ferric metal may be molded into the magnetic receiver.

[0037] Magnet material refers to refers to any magnetic material, e.g. permanent magnets, rare earth magnets, ceramic magnets, Mn-Al alloy magnets, electromagnets, etc. In one example, the magnetic material is selected from the group consisting of ceramic magnets, rare earth magnets, or combinations thereof. In another example, the magnet material is material of a rare earth magnet selected from Neodymium Iron Boron, Samarium Cobalt, AlNiCo, and mixtures thereof.

[0038] Magnetic connection refers to a connection between two components due to magnetic attraction including a first component having magnet material and a second component having either ferromagnetic material or magnet material (e.g. opposite in polarity to the magnet material of the first component).

[0039] Consumer product refers to a product used by a consumer, such as a hygiene product (e.g. shaving razor, toothbrush, hair brush, hair dryer, etc.). The consumer product may include multiple consumer products, such as a first consumer product and a second consumer product which could be sold separately or bundled together such that they are engageable via. a magnetic connection (e.g. a razor blade assembly and a stand).

[0040] Stand refers to a consumer product, such as a component used to hold another consumer product when not in use. In one example, the stand is attached to a surface (e.g. wall of a shower or bathroom) proximate where a consumer uses the product. In one example, a magnetic connection between the stand and the consumer product holds the consumer product to the stand.

[0041] Mechanical connection refers to a physical connection between two components other than a magnetic connection.

[0042] Closed position refers to a position of two components rotatably coupled by a hinge when the two components are rotated about the hinge such that they face each other.

[0043] Open position refers to a position of two components rotatably coupled by a hinge when the two components are rotated about the hinge such that they do not face each other.

[0044] Hinge refers to a thin strip of material connecting two halves and allowing one half to fold over the other half.

Consumer Product Package

[0045] An improved consumer product package will now be discussed which overcomes the above stated drawbacks of conventional product packages. In some embodiments, the improved consumer product package may be configured to package a consumer product which employs a magnetic connection. In these example embodiments, the magnetic connection employed may be a magnetic connection between a first consumer product (e.g. a stand) and a second consumer product (e.g. portion of a hygiene product, such as a razor blade handle) so that the second consumer product can be secured to the first consumer product via. the magnetic connection. In one example embodiment, where the first consumer product may be a stand and the second consumer product may be a razor blade handle, the razor blade handle may be secured to the stand via. the magnetic connection when the razor blade is not in use. In one example embodiment, the stand may itself be secured to a surface (e.g. shower wall, bathroom wall adjacent a sink or mirror, etc.) that is adjacent an area where the consumer product is typically used. Thus, in this example embodiment, the magnetic connection between the product and the stand may conveniently secure the product to the surface in this area when the product is not in use.

[0046] As disclosed herein, the improved consumer product package may leverage this same magnetic connection to hold the package in a closed position. Thus, the consumer may directly experience the magnetic connection firsthand when making the purchasing decision of the consumer product at a retail store, e.g. as they open the closed package.

[0047] FIG. 2A is a block diagram of a consumer product package 100 in an open position, according to various embodiments. FIG. 2B is a block diagram of the consumer product package 100 of FIG. 2A in a closed position, according to various embodiments. FIG. 2C is a block diagram of a cross-sectional view of the consumer product package 100 of FIG. 2B taken along the line 2C-2C, according to various embodiments. In some aspects, the consumer product package 100 may include a first container 102 and a second container 104. The first container 102 and the second container 104 may be connected by a hinge 120 such that the first and second containers 102, 104 may be pivotable about the hinge 120 from an open position (FIG. 2A) to a closed position (FIGS. 2B and 2C). A first consumer product 122 may be secured within a first compartment 110 of the first container 102. A second consumer product 124 may be secured within a second compartment 114 of the second container 104.

[0048] As shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the first container 102 and the second container 104 are rotatable about the hinge 120 to a closed position, where the first container 102 may face the second container 104. An interface 107 may be formed between the first and second containers 102, 104 in the closed position. As shown in FIG. 2C, when the first and second containers 102, 104 are moved to the closed position, the first consumer product 122 may extend beyond the interface 107 and into the second compartment 114 of the second container 104. A magnetic connection may be formed between the first and second consumer products 122, 124 in the closed position and this magnetic connection may maintain the consumer product package 100 in the closed position. Additionally, a first mechanical connection may hold the first consumer product 122 in the first compartment 110 of the first container 102 and a second mechanical connection may hold the second consumer product 124 in the second compartment 114 of the second container 104. A first removal force required to sever the first mechanical connection and a second removal force required to sever the second mechanical connection may each be greater than the attraction force of the magnetic connection. This may advantageously ensure that the attraction force of the magnetic connection will not dislodge the first consumer product 122 from the first compartment 110 or the second consumer product 124 from the second compartment 114 upon opening the consumer product package 100 to the open position shown in FIG. 2A.

[0049] An improved consumer product package will now be discussed which may be used to package one or more components of a product (e.g., razor blade assembly). In these aspects, the first consumer product 122 may be a stand and the second consumer product 124 may be a consumer hygiene product (e.g. razor blade, electric toothbrush, hair dryer, etc.) that can be mounted to the stand via. a magnetic connection when not in use. FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective views of a consumer product package 100 in an open position, according to various embodiments. The consumer product package 100 may feature a pair of containers 102, 104 that may be rotatably connected about a hinge axis 121 via. a hinge 120 in a book-type format. However, in other embodiments the pair of containers 102, 104 may be connected in a manner other than rotatably connected via a hinge, such as a slidable connection (e.g. tongue and groove). In still other embodiments, the hinge need not be placed along the side of the containers 102, 104 and instead may be positioned along a bottom or top surface of the containers 102, 104, for example. In still other embodiments, the consumer product package 100 may not be limited to two containers rotatably connected about a single hinge and may include more than two containers rotatably connected about more than one hinge, for example.

[0050] The containers 102, 104 of the consumer product package 100 will now be discussed in more detail. As shown in FIG. 3A, the consumer product package 100 may feature a first container 102 having a first inner wall 106 that defines a first compartment 110 and a first outer wall 112. The consumer product package may also feature a second container 104 having a second inner wall 108 that defines a second compartment 114 and a second outer wall 116. A first depth 109 of the first container 102 may be defined as a spacing between the first inner wall 106 and first outer wall 112. A second depth 111 of the second container 104, may be defined as a spacing between the second inner wall 108 and the second outer wall 116.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, a first consumer product that may be a consumer product stand 122 may be removably secured within the first compartment 110 of the first container 102. Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, a second consumer product that may be a consumer product 124 (e.g. shaving razor) may be removably secured within the second compartment 114 of the second container 104. In some embodiments, the containers 102, 104 (excluding the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124) may be made from traditional cardstock material, paper blister material or pulpac form material. In other embodiments, the containers 102, 104 (excluding the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124) may not be made from any magnet material or ferromagnetic material. Although the embodiment of FIGS. 3A and 3B depict that the first consumer product may be a consumer product stand 122 and the second consumer product may be a shaving razor handle 124, it is to be appreciated that the first consumer product and the second consumer product can be any consumer products which are configured to be secured to each other via. a magnetic connection.

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the consumer product stand 122 may be removably secured within the first compartment 110 of the first container 102 with a mechanical connection. Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the consumer product 124 may be removably secured within the second compartment 114 of the second container 104 with a mechanical connection. The mechanical connection can include any of a number of types of connections.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 3B, in one example embodiment, the mechanical connection may be provided by a first form-fitting plastic barrier 125a that may removably secure the consumer product stand 122 within the first compartment 110 and a second form-fitting plastic barrier 125b that may removably secure the consumer product 124 within the second compartment 114. In this example embodiment, the consumer product stand 122 may be held within the first container 102 using the first form-fitting plastic barrier 125a that may be arranged on a side of the consumer product stand 122 facing the first inner wall 106 and may conform to an outer surface of the consumer product stand 122 facing the first inner wall 106. The first form-fitting plastic barrier 125a may be secured within the first container 102 by a friction fit along interior surfaces of the first container 102. Similarly, in this example embodiment, the consumer product 124 may be held within the second container 104 using the second form-fitting plastic barrier 125b that may be arranged on a side of the consumer product 124 facing the second inner wall 108 and may conform to an outer surface of the consumer product 124 facing the second inner wall 108. The second form-fitting plastic barrier 125b may be secured within the second container 104 by a friction fit along interior surfaces of the second container 104.

[0054] The first and second form-fitting plastic barriers 125a, 125b referenced herein may be blister wraps of the type commonly used in consumer product packaging. These blister wraps may be designed to encase products securely while allowing them to remain visible to consumers through the clear plastic. This transparency may facilitate product inspection and attractiveness on retail shelves, ensuring the item is both protected and prominently displayed. The materials used in these blister wraps may typically be durable and capable of conforming closely to the shape of the encased product, providing a snug and secure fit that enhances both product presentation and protection. Blister wraps may comprise any suitable materials, for example, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETE), and Polypropylene (PP).

[0055] However, the embodiments of the disclosure are not limited to using the first and second form-fitting plastic barriers 125a, 125b as the mechanical connection that holds the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124 within the respective first and second containers 102, 104. In other embodiments, other mechanical connections may be employed such as a cardboard cut-out, a hook and loop fastener, an adhesive, one or more ties, and any other mechanical connection appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0056] FIG. 3C is a front view of the consumer product package of FIG. 3B in the open position. As shown in FIG. 3C, the consumer product 124 may be spaced apart from a bottom surface 142 of the second compartment 114 by a spacing 140 in the open position. Additionally, the consumer product 124 may be spaced apart from a top surface 156 of the second compartment 114 by a spacing 154 in the open position. In an example embodiment, the spacing 140 may be about 11.5 mm or in a range from about 5 mm to about 15 mm In another example embodiment, the spacing 154 may be about 14 mm or in a range from about 5 mm to about 20 mm.

[0057] Similarly, the consumer product stand 122 may be spaced apart from a bottom surface 138 of the first compartment 110 by a spacing 136 in the open position. Additionally, the consumer product stand 122 may be spaced apart from a top surface 152 of the first compartment 110 by a spacing 150 in the open position. In an example embodiment, the spacing 136 may be about 45 mm or in a range from about 30 mm to about 75 mm In another example embodiment, the spacing 150 may be about 65 mm or in a range from about 30 mm to about 75 mm.

[0058] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the consumer product package of FIG. 3A in a closed position, according to various embodiments. The bottom surfaces 138, 142 of the respective first and second compartments may be aligned in a direction orthogonal to the hinge axis 121 (FIG. 3C). Thus, when the consumer product package 100 is moved to the closed position in FIG. 4, the consumer product 124 may also be spaced apart from the bottom surface 138 of the first compartment 110 by the spacing 140 and may be spaced apart from the top surface 152 of the first compartment 110 by the spacing 154. Additionally, when the consumer product package 100 is moved to the closed position in FIG. 4, the consumer product stand 122 may be spaced apart from the bottom surface 142 of the second compartment 114 by the spacing 136 and may be spaced apart from the top surface 156 of the second compartment 114 by the spacing 150. It was recognized that the values of one or more of the spacings 136, 140, 150, 154 may be selected such that when the consumer product package 100 is moved to the closed position (FIG. 4), a portion 144 of the consumer product stand 122 may be aligned with a portion 146 of the consumer product 124 so that a magnetic connection may be established between the portions 144, 146 when the consumer product package 100 is in the closed position. In an example embodiment, where the consumer product 124 may be a shaving razor, the portion 144 may be a recess defined in the consumer product stand 122 and the portion 146 may be a region along a handle of the shaving razor which may have a shape configured to fit within the recess defined by the portion 144 of the consumer product stand 122.

[0059] As further shown in FIG. 4, when the consumer product package 100 is moved to the closed position, an interface 107 may be formed between the first and second containers 102, 104 that may be due to the first inner wall 106 of the first container 102 contacting the second inner wall 108 of the second container 104.

[0060] The magnetic connection between the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124 will now be further discussed. FIG. 5A is a front view of the consumer product package of FIG. 4 in the closed position. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5A, the consumer product package 100 may include a panel 148 positioned within an opening defined by the second outer wall 116 of the second container 104. In some embodiments, the panel 148 may feature transparent material (e.g. transparent plastic) such that a consumer holding the consumer product package 100 can view the consumer product 124 magnetically connected to the consumer product stand 122 through the panel 148. However, in other embodiments the panel 148 may not be made from transparent material and/or is omitted. Thus, in these other embodiments, the second outer wall 116 may not feature a panel for the consumer to view the magnetically connected consumer product 124 and consumer product stand 122 within the consumer product package 100 in the closed position. In other embodiments, a panel that may be similar to the panel 148 can be provided in an opening defined by the first outer wall 112 of the first container 102. In these embodiments, this panel may be made from transparent material such that a consumer holding the consumer product package 100 may view the consumer product 124 magnetically connected to the consumer product stand 122 through the panel on the first outer wall 112 of the first container 102. Although the embodiment of FIGS. 5A and 5B depict that the first consumer product may be a consumer product stand 122 and the second consumer product may be a shaving razor handle 124, it is to be appreciated that the first consumer product and the second consumer product can be any consumer products which are configured to be secured to each other via. a magnetic connection.

[0061] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the consumer product package 100 of FIG. 5A taken along the line A-A where the consumer product stand 122 may extend into the consumer product container 104, according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 5B, when the consumer product package 100 is moved to the closed position, a portion 144 of the consumer product stand 122 may pass into the second compartment 114 and may form a magnetic connection 132 with the portion 146 of the consumer product 124. As further shown in FIG. 5B, when the consumer product package 100 is moved to the closed position, the consumer product stand 122 may pass the first inner wall 106 of the first container 102 and may pass the second inner wall 108 of the second container 104 to enter the second compartment 114.

[0062] The first and second depths 109, 111 (FIG. 3A) of the respective first and second containers 102, 104 may be selected such that when the consumer product package 100 is moved to the closed position, the portion 144 of the consumer product stand 122 may extend into the second compartment 114 to within a threshold distance of the portion 146 of the consumer product 124. In these embodiments, the threshold distance may be a maximum spacing between the portions 144, 146 where the magnetic connection 132 between the portions 144, 146 may be maintained. In the embodiment of FIG. 5B, the first depth 109 may be about 10 mm or in a range between about 7 mm and about 20 mm and the second depth 111 may be about 32 mm or in a range between about 25 and about 45 mm. In certain embodiments, the first depth 109 may be less than the second depth 111, as the consumer product stand 122 may have a smaller profile than the consumer product 124. In addition, the consumer product stand 122 may project out of the first container 102 and into the second container 104 to engage the consumer product 124, thus also minimizing the overall depth of the consumer product package.

[0063] In the embodiment of FIG. 5B, the consumer product 124 may comprise magnet material and/or ferromagnetic material. In an example embodiment, the portion 146 (e.g. portion of the handle of the shaving razor) may comprise the magnet material and/or the ferromagnetic material. In the embodiment of FIG. 5B, the consumer product stand 122 may comprise magnet material and/or ferromagnetic material. In an example embodiment, the portion 144 (e.g. recess defined in a convex portion of the consumer product stand 122) may comprise the magnet material and/or the ferromagnetic material. It was recognized that it may be advantageous to provide one of the portions 144, 146 with a magnet material and the other of the portions 144, 146 with a ferromagnetic material, which may save costs as magnet material is more expensive than ferromagnetic material.

[0064] The mechanical connection between the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124 and the respective first and second containers 102, 104 will now be discussed, as it relates to the magnetic connection 132 between the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124 in the closed position. It was recognized that a first removal force require to sever the mechanical connection between the consumer product stand 122 and the first container 102 and a second removal force required to sever the mechanical connection between the consumer product 124 and the second container 104 may each be stronger than an attraction force of the magnetic connection 132 between the consumer product stand 122 and the consumer product 124 when the consumer product package 100 is in the closed position. It was recognized that this may advantageously ensure that the magnetic connection 132 may not overcome the removal force of each mechanical connection which would undesirably cause one or both of the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124 to become dislodged from their respective first and second containers 102, 104. In one example embodiment, where the first and second form-fitting plastic barriers 125a, 125b form the mechanical connection, it was recognized that various parameters of the form-fitting plastic barriers (e.g. thickness of the plastic layer, extent of the friction fit of the barriers 125a, 125b within the interior surfaces of the container, etc.) may be selected to ensure that the removal forces of the mechanical connections provided by each form-fitting plastic barrier 125a, 125b is stronger than the attraction force of the magnetic connection 132. In yet another example embodiment, it was recognized that various parameters of the magnetic connection 132 (e.g. type or volume of magnet material, type, or volume of ferromagnetic material, etc.) may be selected such that the magnetic connection 132 is not stronger than the mechanical connection.

[0065] In some embodiments, such as where a mechanical connection other than the form-fitting plastic barriers 125a, 125b is employed, the magnetic connection 132 may be formed between the portion 144 (e.g. magnet material and/or ferromagnetic material) of the consumer product stand 122 which directly contacts the portion 146 (e.g. magnet material and/or ferromagnetic material) of the consumer product 124. However, for the embodiment where the form-fitting plastic barriers 125a, 125b may be employed for the mechanical connection, as shown in FIG. 5B two layers of plastic barriers 125a, 125b plastic may be provided between the portions 144, 146 of the respective consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124 undergoing the magnetic connection 132.

[0066] Although FIG. 5B depicts the consumer product stand 122 extending into the second compartment 114 of the second container 104 in the closed position, the embodiments of the disclosure are not limited to this configuration. FIGS. 6A through 6C depict three different configurations of the consumer product package in terms of how the consumer product stand 122 and/or consumer product 124 may extend into one or both of the containers 102, 104 in the closed position. For ease of illustration, in FIGS. 6A through 6C the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124 may be represented as blocks. In an example embodiment, these blocks may generally take the form of the shape of the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124 (e.g. shaving razor and shaving razor stand). Although the embodiment of FIGS. 6A through 6C depict that the first consumer product may be a consumer product stand 122 and the second consumer product may be a shaving razor handle 124, it is to be appreciated that the first consumer product and the second consumer product can be any consumer products which are configured to be secured to each other via. a magnetic connection.

[0067] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of the consumer product package 100 of FIG. 5A taken along the line A-A where the consumer product stand 122 may extend into the second container 104, according to various embodiments. This arrangement is similar to the arrangement of FIG. 5B where the portion 144 of the consumer product stand 122 may extend into the second compartment 114 of the second container 104 and may form the magnetic connection 132 with the portion 146 of the consumer product 124 within the second compartment 114 of the second container 104.

[0068] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of a consumer product package 100where the consumer product 124 may extend into the consumer product stand container 102, according to various embodiments. In this embodiment, the portion 146 of the consumer product 124 (e.g. portion along a handle of the shaving razor) may extend into the first compartment 110 of the first container 102when the consumer product package 100is in the closed position. In one example embodiment, the consumer product package 100may differ from the consumer product package 100 of FIGS. 5B and 6A as the second depth 111 of the second container 104may be reduced and/or the first depth 109 of the first container 102may be increased from their respective values in the consumer product package 100 (FIG. 3A). This may permit the portion 146 of the consumer product 124 to extend into the first compartment 110 of the first container 102in the closed position.

[0069] While FIG. 5B discusses an arrangement where the consumer product stand 122 may extend into the second container 104 and FIG. 6B discusses an arrangement where the consumer product 124 may extend into the first container 102, the embodiments of the disclosure is not limited to these arrangements. In another arrangement, the consumer product stand 122 may extend into the second container 104 and the consumer product 124 may extend into the first container 102. FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of this arrangement. In this embodiment, a portion 146of the consumer product 124 may extend into the first compartment 110 of the first container 102 and the portion 144 of the consumer product 122 may extend into the second compartment 114 of the second container 104 when the consumer product package 100 is in the closed position. For this embodiment, the portion 146 (e.g. razor cartridge) of the consumer product 124 that extends into the first container 102 may not be the same portion 146 (e.g. portion along the handle of the shaving razor) of the consumer product 124 that forms the magnetic connection 132 with the portion 144 of the consumer product 122. In some embodiments, this arrangement may be achieved by selecting values for the first depth 109 and the second depth 111 and/or mounting one or more of the consumer product stand 122 and the consumer product 124 within their respective containers 102, 104 so to be closer to the respective inner walls 106, 108 in the open position. This mounting may ensure that the consumer product stand 122 and/or the consumer product 124 are more proximate to the interface 107 in the closed position and thus may extend into the opposing container of the consumer product package 100.

[0070] The use of the consumer product stand 122 and the consumer product 124 is now discussed. FIG. 7 is a side view of the stand of the consumer product package 100 of FIG. 3A attached to a surface 160 and the product 124 magnetically connected to the stand 122, according to various embodiments. After purchasing the consumer product package 100 and removing the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124 from the consumer product package 100, the consumer may mount the consumer product 124 to the consumer product stand 122 using the very same magnetic connection 132 that may be employed to hold the consumer product package 100 in the closed position. The consumer may then mount a portion 145 of the consumer product stand 122 to a surface 160 (e.g. shower wall, bathroom wall, etc.) that may be proximate to an area where the consumer utilizes the consumer product 124. This may advantageously permit the consumer to easily remove the consumer product 124 for use and then later replace the consumer product 124 back on the consumer product stand 122. The consumer product package 100, by employing the same magnetic connection 132 between the consumer product stand 122 and the consumer product 124 during the purchase phase, may provide the consumer with a preview of how to use the consumer product stand 122 in conjunction with the consumer product 124 during the usage phase. This may advantageously enhance a consumer's decision to purchase the consumer product package 100 by demonstrating the magnetic connection 132 to the consumer before using the consumer product 124 with the consumer product stand 122. Although the embodiment of FIG. 7 depicts that the first consumer product may be a consumer product stand 122 and the second consumer product may be a shaving razor handle 124, it is to be appreciated that the first consumer product and the second consumer product can be any consumer products which are configured to be secured to each other via. a magnetic connection.

Method of Assembly

[0071] FIG. 8 is a flowchart that depicts an example of one or more steps of a method 200 for assembly of the consumer product package, according to various embodiments. Although steps are depicted in FIG. 8 as integral steps in a particular order for purposes of illustration, in other embodiments, one or more steps, or portions thereof, are performed in a different order, or overlapping in time, in series or in parallel, or are omitted, or one or more additional steps are added, or the method is changed in some combination of ways.

[0072] In step 202, a first container 102 may be provided having a first inner wall 106 that may define a first compartment 110 and a first outer wall 112. In other embodiments, in step 202 a first container 102 (FIG. 6B) may be provided that defines a first compartment and a first outer wall which may differ from the first container 102. In one example embodiment, the first container 102may differ as it has an increased first depth 111 as compared with the first container 102.

[0073] In step 204, a second container 104 may be provided having a second inner wall 108 that may define a second compartment 114 and a second outer wall 116. In other embodiments, in step 202 a second container 104 (FIG. 6B) may be provided that defines a second compartment and a second outer wall which may differ from the second container 104. In one example embodiment, the second container 104may differ as it has a reduced second depth 111 as compared with the second container 104.

[0074] In step 206, the first container 102 and the second container 104 may be connected. In one embodiment, in step 206 the first container 102 may be rotatably connected with the second container 104 with a hinge 120. In other embodiments, in step 206 the first container 102 may be connected to the second container 104 using other means, such as a tongue and grove slidable connection. The first containers 102, 102 (FIGS. 6B, 6C) may be similarly connected with the respective second containers 104, 104 with the hinge 120. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5B, when the first container 102 and/or the second container 104 are rotated about the hinge 120 until the consumer product package 100 is in a closed position, the second compartment 114 of the second container 104 may face the first compartment 110 of the first container 102.

[0075] In step 208, the consumer product stand 122 may be removably secured within the first compartment 110 of the first container 102. In one embodiment, in step 208 the consumer product stand 122 may be removably secured within the first compartment 110 using a mechanical connection. In one example embodiment, the mechanical connection may be the form-fitting plastic barrier 125a that may be shaped according to an outer surface of the consumer product stand 122 facing the interface 107 in the closed position. The form-fitting plastic barrier 125a may be removably secured within the first compartment 110 using any means known to one of ordinary skill in the art, such as a friction fit with interior surfaces of the first compartment 110. In another example embodiment, the mechanical connection may include any of a cardboard cut-out, an adhesive, one or ties to secure the consumer product stand 122 within the first compartment 110, or any other mechanical connection appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The consumer product stand 122 may be removably secured within the first compartments of the first containers 102, 102 (FIGS. 6B and 6C) using a similar mechanical connection as was utilized to removably secure the consumer product stand 122 within the first compartment 110 of the first container 102.

[0076] In step 210, the consumer product 124 may be removably secured within the second compartment 114 of the second container 104. In one embodiment, in step 210 the consumer product 124 may be removably secured within the second compartment 114 using a mechanical connection. In one example embodiment, the mechanical connection may be the form-fitting plastic barrier 125b that may be shaped according to an outer surface of the consumer product 124 facing the interface 107 in the closed position. The form-fitting plastic barrier 125b may be removably secured within the second compartment 114 using any means known to one of ordinary skill in the art, such as a friction fit with interior surfaces defining the second compartment 114. In another example embodiment, the mechanical connection may include any of a cardboard cut-out, an adhesive, one or ties to secure the consumer product 124 within the second compartment 114, or any other mechanical connection appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The consumer product 124 may be removably secured within the second compartments of the second containers 104, 104 (FIGS. 6B and 6C) using a similar mechanical connection as was utilized to removably secure the consumer product 124 within the second compartment 114 of the second container 104.

[0077] In step 212, the first container 102 may be secured to the second container 104 in the closed position with a magnetic connection 132 between the consumer product stand 122 and the consumer product 124. After steps 208 and 210 are performed such that the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124 may be removably secured within their respective containers 102, 104, one or both of the containers 102, 104 may be rotated about the hinge 120 until the containers 102, 104 face each other in the closed position. As the consumer product package 100 may be rotated to the closed position, once the portion 144 of the consumer product stand 122 reaches within a threshold distance of the portion 146 of the consumer product 124, the magnetic connection 132 between the portions 144, 146 may cause the consumer product package 100 to move to and remain in the closed position. The magnetic connection 132 may be sufficiently strong to maintain the consumer product package 100 in the closed position but not too strong such that the consumer cannot overcome the magnetic connection 132 when the consumer opens the consumer product package 100 by rotating one or both of the containers 102, 104 about the hinge 120. Additionally, the attraction force of the magnetic connection 132 may not be as strong as the first or second removal forces of the mechanical connections that removably secure each of the consumer product stand 122 and consumer product 124 in their respective containers 102, 104. This may advantageously ensure that the magnetic connection 132 does not overcome the mechanical connections and cause the consumer product stand 122 and/or consumer product 124 to become dislodged from their respective containers 102, 104.

[0078] In some embodiments, such as depicted in FIGS. 5B and 6A, upon performing step 212, a portion 144 of the consumer product stand 122 may extend into the second compartment 114 of the second container 104. In other embodiments, such as depicted in FIG. 6B, upon performing step 212, a portion 146 of the consumer product 124 may extend into the first compartment 110 of the first container 102. In still other embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 6C, upon performing step 212, both a portion 144 of the consumer product stand 122 may extend into the second compartment 114 of the second container 104 and a portion 146of the consumer product 124 may extend into the first compartment 110 of the first container 102.

Further Definitions and Cross-references

[0079] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as 40 mm is intended to mean about 40 mm.

[0080] Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any disclosure disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such disclosure. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

[0081] While particular embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this disclosure.