Patent · US Active

Method and apparatus for forming a notched hinge connection in a thermoformed container

US9340350B2 · kind B2 · utility

21Cited by
6References
6Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateAug 15, 2014
Grant dateMay 17, 2016
Priority date
Expiry dateAug 15, 2034

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB29L2031/7168
  • WIPO fieldOther special machines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Method and apparatus for forming a hinge in a thermoformed container, such as an egg carton, and the resulting container. The hinge is formed in the mold, by severing a thermoformed container along the length of a hinge line, with the exception of plurality of spaced connecting membranes that are not severed. The alternating severed portions and connecting membranes are referred to herein as a notched hinge connection. The width, depth, and location of the connecting membranes can be adjusted so the hinge area is strong enough to withstand multiple openings during use.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.