WO1997022540A1

WO1997022540A1 - Holder for compact disc and the like having spines

Info

Publication number: WO1997022540A1
Application number: PCT/US1996/020312
Authority: WO
Inventors: William Collins
Original assignee: William Collins
Priority date: 1995-12-21
Filing date: 1996-12-20
Publication date: 1997-06-26
Also published as: AU1339097A

Abstract

A disc package (10) suitable as a mailer for discs such as compact discs and computer floppy discs. In one embodiment, the disc package has four spines (36, 37, 50, 55) at four respective side edges thereof to strengthen the disc package and to protect the disc retained in the disc package. In another embodiment, the disc package includes disc retainment tabs (561, 571, 561', 571') layed over lateral engagement sections to substantially engage a portion of a surface of a retained disc.

Description

HOLDER FOR COMPACT DISC AND THE LIKE HAVING SPINES

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a package, such as a mailer, for securely holding, storing and transporting one or more compact discs, computer floppy discs, and the like, without scratching or marring the surface of the disc and for permitting rapid insertion and removal of the disc, and full display of the entire face of the label side of the disc when the disc is retained in the package.

Discussion of Related Art

Traditionally, packages for containing a compact disc or a computer floppy disc have been constructed either partially or entirely of plastic or to include paperboard sleeves and folders which obstruct the view of all or a significant part of the label side of the disc. Some conventional packages scratch or mar the playing surface of the compact disc. Other conventional paperboard packages require a considerable amount of manual manipulation because they do not fold up flat before they are used.

U.S. Patent No. 5,289,918 to Dobias et al. recognized the need for a paperboard compact disc package to reveal decoration or information on the non-playing surface of the disc while the package is open. It further recognized the need to construct the package of recyclable materials rather than plastic and to automate the fabrication process to reduce manual labor. As a proposed solution, Dobias et al. teaches a folded container constructed from a single, unitary sheet. The sheet includes a disc holder panel having two sloped surfaces each with an elliptical diecut cutout. These elliptical diecut cutouts are shaped so that the larger of the two arcs of each ellipse is of a sufficient dimension to allow a disc to be relatively easily inserted through the top of the arc at the top of the sloped surface, while the descending portion of the arc decreases in size to snap-lock the disc in place. The smaller of the two arcs of each ellipse is sufficient to support the disc at the edges without touching any other surface of the disc. As a result, the disc holder panel locks the disc at four points along the outer periphery.

It is desirable to form the compact disc folded package starting from a single, unitary sheet of paperboard that is initially flat and then folding it to a form to contain the compact disc and yet allow full view of the label side of the disc while the package is open, but without pinching the disc at four points of its outer periphery and yet taking precaution to prevent the disc from inadvertently popping out of its retention position.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a compact disc package which can be made of paperboard and the like substantially using paperboard folding equipment and the like.

It is a further object of the present invention to produce an economical compact disc package which can hold one or more compact discs for storage and/or mailing. It is still a further object of the present invention to provide a compact disc package which is easy to use and economical to manufacture.

It is still a further object of the present invention to provide a compact disc holder wherein the compact disc is easily inserted and removed therefrom.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a compact disc holder which overcomes inherent disadvantages of known compact disc holders.

In accordance with one form of the present invention, a disc package includes a retention panel defining a plane and folded sidewall sections extending out of the plane from the retention panel. The sidewall sections have edges which face each other and which are contoured to substantially correspond to a periphery of a disc for accommodating insertion of the disc between the facing edges. The disc package also includes tabs which extend from a small portion of each of the sidewall sections toward the other of the sidewall sections. The tabs are spaced from the plane by a distance sufficient for accommodating a thickness of the disc between the plane and the tabs. The tabs extend over a surface portion of the inserted disc to retain the inserted disc.

In accordance with another form of the present invention, a disc package includes a retention panel defining a plane and folded sidewall section extending out of the plane from the retention panel. The sidewall sections have edges facing each other which are contoured to substantially correspond to a periphery of a disc for accommodating insertion of the disc between the facing edges. The disc package also includes at least one tab extending from one of the sidewall sections toward the other of the sidewall sections. The tab is spaced front the plane defined by the retention panel by a distance sufficient for accommodating a thickness of the disc.

In accordance with another form of the present invention, a disc package for retaining a disc having a side peripheral edge includes a retention panel defining a plane and folded sidewall sections extending out of the plane from the retention panel. The sidewall sections have edges facing each other which are contoured to substantially correspond to the peripheral edge of a disc for accommodating insertion of the disc between the facing edges. The sidewall sections are contoured so as to contact the side peripheral edge of a disc to frictionally retain the disc in the package.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a disc package for retaining a disc having an edge defining a radius of curvature includes a retention panel defining a plane. The retention panel includes first and second surfaces. The first surface of the retention panel is in substantial contact with a face of the disc when the disc is inserted within the disc package. The disc package also includes a plurality of lateral engagement sections superposed with respect to the first surface of the retention panel. Each of the plurality of lateral engagement sections have a curved edge which substantially corresponds to the disc edge for accommodating insertion of the disc, engagement of the disc edge, and lateral retention of the disc. The disc package also includes a disc retain ent tab which extends from at least one of the plurality of lateral engagement sections. The disc retainment tab is non-planar with respect to the retention panel plane. The disc retainment tab corresponds to one of the plurality of lateral engagement sections. At least a portion of the disc retainment tab extends over at least a portion of the first surface of the retention panel so as to substantially engage at least a portion of a surface of the inserted disc and to retain the disc therein.

In accordance with a another form of the present invention, a disc package for retaining a disc having a side peripheral edge includes a retention panel defining a plane having a first and second surface. The first surface of the retention panel is in substantial contact with a face of the disc when the disc is inserted within the disc package. A plurality of lateral engagement sections are superposed with respect to the first surface of the retention panel. Each of the plurality of lateral engagement sections has an edge which substantially corresponds to the side peripheral edge for accommodating insertion of the disc, engagement of the disc edge and lateral retention of the disc. The plurality of lateral engagement sections are contoured so as to contact the side peripheral edge of the disc so as to frictionally retain the disc in the package.

In accordance with another form of the present invention, the disc package includes a retention panel defining a plane and folded sidewall sections extending out of the plane from the retention panel. The sidewall sections have edges facing each other which are contoured to substantially correspond to a periphery of a disc for accommodating insertion of the disc between the facing edges. The disc package also includes a first tab extending from a small portion of a sidewall section to the other of said sidewall sections. The first tab is spaced from the plane by a first distance sufficient for accommodating a thickness of the disc between the plane and the first tab. The first tab extends over a surface portion of the inserted disc to retain the disc therein. The disc package also includes a second tab extending from a small portion of a sidewall section toward the other of the sidewall sections. The tab is spaced from the plane by a second distance sufficient for accommodating the thickness of the disc between the plane and the second tab. The second tab extends over a surface portion of the inserted disc to retain the inserted disc therein. The second tab includes a plurality of slits therethrough making the tab resilient such that the disc is relatively easily provided between the second tab and the plane and relatively easily removed therefrom without substantially permanently deforming said second tab.

In accordance with another form of the present invention, the disc package includes a retention panel defining a plane and folded sidewall sections extending out of the plane from the retention panel. The sidewall sections include edges which face each other and which are contoured to substantially correspond to the periphery of a disc for accommodating insertion of the disc between the facing edges. The package also includes a first tab extending from one of the sidewall sections substantially toward the other of the sidewall sections. The first tabs are spaced from the plane by a first distance sufficient for accommodating a thickness of the disc. The package also includes at least a second tab extending from one of the sidewall sections substantially toward the other of the sidewall sections. The second tab is spaced from the plane by a second distance sufficient for accommodating the thickness of the disc. The second tab includes a plurality of slits therethrough. A preferred form of the compact disc holder, as well as other embodiments, objects, features and advantages of the invention, will be apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments thereof, which is to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a compact disc package of the present invention shown in its folded, assembled, ready-to-transport condition;

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the compact disc package of FIG. 1 in its open condition for insertion or removal of a compact disc;

FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 1, with a compact disc mounted therein;

FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken along line 4-4 in

FIG 1, with a compact disc mounted therein;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along line 5-5 in FIG 2, with a compact disc mounted therein;

FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken along line 6-6 in FIG 2, with a compact disc removed from the package;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged front view of the compact disc package of FIG. 2, showing the mounting surfaces for the compact disc in detail;

FIG. 8 is an unassembled plan view showing an unfolded blank from which the compact disc package of the invention may be constructed; FIG. 9 is a front view of the compact disc mounting portion of a first alternate embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a sectional view similar to FIG. 4 of a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a sectional view, similar to FIG. 6, of said second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 is a sectional view, similar to FIG. 4 , of a third embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a sectional view, similar to FIG. 4 , of a fourth embodiment C- the invention;

FIG. 14 is a sectional view, similar to FIG. 6, of said fourth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 15 is an unassembled plan view showing an unfolded blank from which the compact disc package of the fourth embodiment of FIGS. 13 and 14 is made;

FIG. 16 is a sectional view, similar to FIG. 5, of a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a sectional view, similar to FIG. 6, of a sixth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a sectional view, similar to FIG. 4 , of a seventh embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a sectional view, similar to FIG. 6, of the embodiment of FIG. 18; FIG. 20 is a front view of the disc holding portion of the embodiment of FIGS. 18 and 19 with a compact disc mounted therein;

FIG. 21 is an unassembled plan view showing an unfolded blank from which the compact disc package of FIGS. 18 - 20 is made;

FIG. 22 is a detail showing a sectional view taken along line 22-22 in FIG. 22, but with one edge folded up;

FIG. 23 is a front view of still another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a package of the present invention configured to hold a computer floppy disc;

FIG. 24A is a partial sectional view taken along line 24A-24A in Fig. 24; and

FIG. 25 is a partial perspective view of another configuration of the package of the present invention for holding a computer floppy disc therein.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the compact disc holder of the present invention shown in its folded, assembled condition having a compact disc secured therein;

FIG. 27 is a sectional view of FIG. 26 taken along line 27-27;

FIG. 28 is a sectional view of FIG. 26 taken along line 28-28; FIG. 29 is a sectional view of FIG. 26 taken along line 29-29;

FIG. 30 is a plan view of the compact disc holder of FIG. 26 in an open pre-folded condition showing lateral engagement sections and disc retainment tabs that are folded upon a retention panel;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the compact disc holder of FIG. 30 wherein the lateral engagement sections are folded upon and secured to the retention panel;

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the compact disc holder of the present invention shown in FIG. 31 in its fully folded condition wherein the disc engagement tabs are folded upon and secured to corresponding lateral engagement sections;

FIG. 33 is an perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention wherein the compact disc holder includes a cover panel which is folded over the retention panel to protect the face of the compact disc stored therein;

FIG. 34 is a sectional view of FIG. 33 taken along line 34-34 with the cover panel closed; and

FIG. 35 is a plan view of the compact disc holder of FIG. 33 in an open pre-folded condition showing the lateral engagement sections, disc retainment tabs and cover panel that are folded upon a retention panel.

FIG. 36 is a front view of an alternate embodiment of the compact disc package shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the compact disc package of FIG. 36 in an open condition for insertion or removal of a compact disc.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 26.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Throughout the following description, a compact disc (CD) is generally referred to. However, it should be understood that the invention is equally applicable to other discs, such as computer floppy discs, data storage discs and data transfer discs and the like. The description with respect to "compact discs" should not be deemed to be limiting of the present invention. In the claims, the more generic claim "disc" is used to encompass not only compact discs, but computer floppy discs and data storage discs and data transfer discs used with electronic apparatus, and the like.

Figs. 1 and 2 show perspective views of a compact disc package 10 (i.e., compact disc holder) . Fig. 1 shows the package 10 in a folded, closed condition, and Fig. 2 shows the package 10 in an open condition. The package 10 is preferably made of paperboard or other material than can be worked and formed on a conventional carton making machine. The package 10 includes a closure flap 12 whose free end 13 is insertable into a slit 14 formed in a front panel 16

(Fig. 1) , and a retention panel 18 between the closure flap 12 and the panel 16. The panel 16 may be a pocket panel which includes two layers 16a, 16b forming a sleeve or pocket 20 therebetween, as seen in Fig. 2. The sleeve 20, as shown in Fig. 2, preferably has a recessed upper portion 20a to provide easy access for grasping the contents of the sleeve 20, which may hold promotional or other material concerning the compact disc.

As shown in Figs. 2-8, the retention panel 18 includes a rear panel 22 having folded side sections, 23, 24 at each side end thereof. The folded side sections 23, 24 each include a number of panel portions 25, 26, 27, 28 having score or fold lines therebetween, as shown in Fig. 8. Extending to the left of the rear panel 22 of retention panel 18 is a folded side section 23 having a number of panel sections 25, 26, 27, 28. The fold or score lines 30, 31 form a spine 36 therebetween when folded, which acts to make the resultant assembled configuration more rigid. The spine 36 also acts as a spacer so that additional layers of material can be located between panel 25 and rear panel 22. Similarly, fold lines 32, 33 are spaced a small distance apart to form a spine 37 therebetween. The panels are folded to form the structure shown in Figs. 1 and 2, as best seen in detail in Fig. 6. The right-side folded section 24 is similarly constructed, as shown in Fig. 8, wherein similar elements are shown by the same, but primed, reference numerals.

In the left-side folded section 23, cut-outs 40, 41 are formed between panels 25, 26 and between panels 27, 28, respectively. Similar cut-out portions 40', 41' are formed in the right-side folded section 24. The edges of the cut¬ out portions 40, 41, 40', 41' are contoured (curved) in such a manner as described hereinbelow for retaining a CD in the assembled package.

To the left and right of the front panel 16a are respective side flaps 16c, 16d, with fold or score lines 16e, 16f therebetween. The side flaps 16c, 16d and the panel 16b are optionally provided, as desired. When the side flaps 16c, 16d and panel 16b are omitted, the front panel of the package 10 comprises only panel 16a with a slit 14 therein for receiving the end member 13 of the flap 12. End portion 13 of the top flap 12 is connected to the main portion of flap 12 with a fold or score line 15 to facilitate opening and closing of the package.

When the disc package 10 is constructed as shown in Fig. 8, the flaps 16c, 16d are folded over onto panel 16a, and are secured to panel 16b by means of an adhesive (such as glue) , for example shown by 16g, 16h, on the inside of panel 16b to form the pocket 20. The pocket 20 can be used for retaining printed matter or other materials either related or non-related to the compact disc.

The folded side sections 23, 24 as shown in Figs. 1 and 2 are formed by folding, each in the manner shown in Figs. 2 and 4-6, along the fold or score lines 30-35 of Fig. 8. In this manner, the panel sections 25-28 are folded on each other to form the folded sections 23, 24 as shown in detail in Figs. 1, 2 and 4-6.

An adhesive 44, 45 is applied to the side edges of rear panel 22 that will contact the folded over panel 26, which is sufficient to keep the folded sections 25-28 in a folded condition where they are folded in the manner shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 4-6. In lieu of an adhesive, other forms of fastening may be employed such as stapling or engagable hook and loop material. Adhesive, however, is preferred.

Score lines 48, 49 are provided between the rear panel 22 and the pocket panel 16 along their commonly connected side. The score lines 48, 49 are spaced apart to provide a spine 50 therebetween which acts as a spacer and a stiffening member to make the package more rigid and to prevent damage to the CD. Score lines 53, 54 are provided between the rear panel 18 and the closure flap 12 along their commonly connected side to form a spine 55 therebetween. Spine 55 functions similarly to spine 50.

The score lines 48, 49 are spaced from each other sufficient to permit the pocket panel 16 to be folded against the folded sections 23, 24 on the rear panel 22. The score lines 53, 54 are similarly spaced from each other sufficient to permit the closure flap 12 to be folded so that its end 13 may be inserted into the slit 14 as shown in Fig. 1, which shows the compact disc package 10 in the closed condition.

The oval openings 40, 41, 40', 41' in the folded side sections 23, 24 are cut to define generally elliptical contours that generally mirror each other. The radius of curvature of contours 60 generally conform to that of the outer periphery of the compact disc, except in the regions 61, 61' (henceforth referred to as tabs) of the sections 25, 25' (see Fig. 8) that are outermost in the folded (assembled) condition (see Figs. 5 and 6) and where the radius of curvature is smaller so that the tabs 61, 61' extend inwardly (over the compact disc - Fig. 5) beyond the contour of the other panel sections 26-28 and are spaced from the rear panel 22 in a direction perpendicular to the rear panel 22 (see Figs. 4-6) .

In effect, the side sections 23, 24 project out of the plane that defines the upper or inner surface of the rear panel 22 and the spacing underneath the inwardly extending tabs 60, 60' is sufficient to accommodate the thickness of the compact disc.

The oval or elliptical openings 41, 41' have generally elliptical contours 62, (62') which are contoured such that the contour 62 does not extend beyond behind the contour 60, and does not extend beyond the contour 63. The contour 63 has a larger radius of curvature so that the edge portion of the contour 63 extends inwardly and under the CD which is placed in the package (see Fig. 4) . The inwardly extending portion 63a of contour 63 is shown in dashed lines in

Fig. 7. The projecting or inwardly extending portions 63a, 63a' of panels 26, 26' on opposite sides of the package serve as spacers behind the CD to space the rear surface of the CD off of the inner surface of rear panel 22, thereby further protecting the CD from damage. Thus, when the CD is mounted in the package, as shown in detail in Fig. 7, the outermost panels 25, 25' having the tabs 61, 61' respectively serve as retention members and also as spacer members to space the top surface of the CD from the inner surface of the front cover member 16 when the compact disc package 10 is in its closed condition as shown in Fig. 1. The projecting or inwardly extending portions 63a of panel 26 (and the projecting portions 63' of panel 26') serve as rear spacers for spacing the rear surface of the CD from the top or front facing surface of rear panel 22. In this manner, the CD is securely held in position and the front and rear flat surfaces of the CD are prevented from being damaged by contact with surface portions of the CD package 10. The contours 62 of panels 27, 28 are spaced away from the edge of the CD so as to "clear" the CD when the CD is mounted in position, as seen in Fig. 4. Similarly, the portion of the contour 60 (60') which does not have the tab 61 (61') thereon is cut so as to clear the CD when the CD is mounted as shown in Fig. 4. Preferably, the contours 62 have curvatures that generally follow the curvature of the circular peripheral edge of the CD so as to be spaced from the circular peripheral edge of the CD and to provide structural integrity to the overall CD package and to keep panels 25 and 26 positively spaced from each other by a distance at least equal to the thickness of the CD or greater. All of the cut-outs defining cut-out portions 40, 41 are preferably die-cut, in a conventional manner. The various fold lines are also formed in a conventional manner, for example using a conventional machine for forming such fold lines, for example as in a carton-making apparatus.

Referring to Fig. 2, the compact disc CD is inserted into position in the package 10 by moving it in the direction of arrow A so that two lower locations along the peripheral edge of the compact disc CD fit into position beneath the tabs 61, 61'. See also the cross sections of Fig. 5 which also illustrate this position.

After reaching this position beneath the tabs, the remainder of the disc drops into place and the CD is pushed in the direction of arrow B in Fig. 2 so as to become seated in position. The pocket panel 16 may then be swung about its score lines so that the face of its sleeve 20 faces the label side of the compact disc CD. The closure flap 12 may then be folded along its score lines to close the compact disc package 10 in the manner shown in Fig. 1.

The manner of closing the closure flap 12, i.e., through insertion into slit 14, may be replaced by other conventional fastening techniques, such as with engaging hook and loop material. Referring again to Fig. 2, the compact disc CD is removed from the package 10 by pulling the upper edge outwardly in the direction of arrow C so as to clear the inner sidewall portions 25, 25' of the folded side sections 23, 24. Then, the CD is lifted upwardly in the direction of the arrow D so as to release it from the tabs 61, 61', thereby enabling the CD to be easily removed from the package 10.

Fig. 9 shows a modified arrangement which is the same as the embodiment of Figs. 1-8, except that the tabs 61, 61' are replaced by similar tabs 71, 71' which are located in the upper portions of the panels 25, 25' of the folded side sections 23, 24, respectively. In all other respects, the embodiment of Fig. 9 is identical to the embodiment of Figs. 1-8. To remove the CD from the package of Fig. 9, the CD is moved downwardly in the direction of arrow E instead of upwardly in the direction of arrow D shown in Fig. 2. The rear spacing portions 63a, 63a' shown in Fig. 7 are also provided in the embodiment of Fig. 9.

Figs. 10 and 11 show sectional views similar to Figs. 4 and 6, respectively, of a second embodiment of the invention. The sectional views shown in Figs. 4 and 6 (and 10 and 11) are of the rear panel 22 and the folded side sections 23, 24. The main difference between Figs. 10 and 11 and the embodiment of Figs. 1-9 is that in Figs. 10 and 11, the end ost panel portion 28, 28' is omitted. The spacer portion 163a is provided similar to spacer portion 63a in the embodiment of Figs. 1-8. The tab portions 61, 61' of Figs. 1-8 are also provided in the embodiment of Figs. 10 and 11, but are not shown in Figs. 10 and 11. - 18 -

Fig. 12 shows another embodiment of the invention which is similar to the embodiment of Figs. 10 and 11, but wherein the spacer element 163a (which is a projection of panel 126) is replaced by a center spacer member 80, which is secured to the rear panel 122, for example by an adhesive. In all other respects, the embodiment of Fig. 12 is similar to that of Figs. 10 and 11, and the remaining portions not shown in Fig. 12 are the same as shown in Figs. 1-8. The spacer member 80 is preferably a soft material such as, for example, soft plastic, paper, foamed plastic or foamed rubber, cardboard, felt or other fabric, or the like.

Figs. 13, 14 and 15 illustrate still another embodiment of the invention which is similar to that of Figs. 1-8, except that an additional panel 229 (see Fig. 15) is included in the folded side sections 223, 224. In

Figs. 13-15, elements which are the same as in Figs. 1-8 are given the same reference numerals, and elements which are similar to those shown in Figs. 1-8 are given the same reference numerals incremented by 200. In Figs. 13-15, the folded end sections 223, 224 respectively include an additional panel 229, 229' which act as an additional spacer member at the middle of the folded side sections 223, 224 so as to provide more space for retaining the CD. This arrangement is suitable for use with CD's having thicker dimensions and/or where it is desired to provide additional space for retention of the CD therein and/or where thinner materials are used (since one added layer is provided, sufficient space for the CD is still provided) . As shown in Figs. 13 and 14, three layers of material are arranged (folded) between the outermost layers 225, 225' (having the tabs 61, 61' thereon) and the bottommost layers 226, 226'. Operation of the embodiment of Figs. 13-15, after being folded to the condition to form a package, is the same as described above with respect to Figs. 1-8.

Figs. 16 and 17 show still another embodiment of the invention wherein the folded side sections 323, 324 comprise only two panels 325, 326 (325', 326') interconnected by spine 337, 337' the panel sections 325, 325' being interconnected with rear panel 22 via respective spines 330, 330'. The contours 360, 363 of the oval cut-out 40 (not shown) between panels 325, 326 are preferably the same as the corresponding contours shown in Fig. 8. That is, the contour 63 defines a spacing portion 363a which extends under the CD, and the contour 360 defines a clearance with a tab 361 extending over the top of the CD. Instead of having a plurality of additional folded panel sections 27, 28 of Fig. 8, the spacer is provided by a plastic strip 350 (preferably shaped like panel 27 of Fig. 8) which is inserted between panel sections 325, 326. The insert 350 has an inner-facing surface contour similar to contour 62 of Fig. 8 so as to provide a clearance around the circular peripheral edge of the CD mounted in the package. The spacer 350 has a thickness which is at least equal to the thickness of the CD so as to space the upper tab 361 from the lower or rear spacing portions 363a, to permit the CD to be inserted therebetween. The spacer 350 is preferably made of an elastomeric material, such as a plastic material which is easily molded, and is preferably glued in position between panels 325, 326. Spacer 50 could also be retained by friction between panels 325 and 326.

As should be clear, the construction of the right side folded member 324 is identical to the above-described left side folded member 323. Figs. 18-20 illustrate another alternate embodiment of the invention wherein the side folded portions 423, 424 have only panels 425 (similar to panels 25 of Fig. 8) having a surface contour 60 with a tab 61 for retaining the CD. The rear panel 22 has a spacer member 422 adhered thereto to space the CD from the inner surface of rear panel 22 and to serve as a cushion member. Fig. 18 is a section taken on a line similar to Fig. 4.

Fig. 19 shows the embodiment of Fig. 18, taken along line 6-6 of Fig. 2, showing how the upper panel 425 is maintained spaced from the rear panel 422. More particularly, in the portions designated by fold lines 32, 33 in Fig. 8, a spine member 437 is provided above and below the opening 40, and a tab portion 470 is connected to the spine portion 430 and is adhered to the inner surface of the rear panel 422 as shown in Fig. 19.

Fig. 20 shows the embodiment of Figs. 18 and 19 with a CD mounted therein.

Fig. 21 shows an unfolded blank from which the package of Figs. 18-20 is fabricated. As seen in Figs. 18 and 19 (sectional views) , the material from which the blank of Fig. 21 is made is a plastic material, such as polyethylene or other suitable thin, foidable plastic material. Preferably, the plastic material is relatively thin so as to be die-cuttable and foidable along fold lines or V-shaped fold grooves, and is sufficiently stiff as to provide sufficient structural integrity when the folded package is assembled. The various spines 430, 437, 450, add structural rigidity to the overall device when it is folded into the assembled condition, in a manner similar to the corresponding spines shown in Figs. 1 and 2. When assembled, the panel sections 470 are preferably adhered to the inner surface of rear panel 422 using an adhesive, a solvent, or by ultrasonic welding, or the like.

The pocket portion in Fig. 20 is fabricated by having a short up-standing wall 417 (bent upwardly as shown in

Fig. 22 along fold groove 418) , and the front panel 416 is preferably folded upwardly around spine 420 (along respective fold grooves) so that the inner surfaces of the up-standing members 417 can be adhered to the side edges of panel 416. Adherence can be by means of adhesive, a solvent, ultrasonic welding or other suitable connection means. In operation, the embodiment of Figs. 18-22 operates the same way as the previously described embodiment of Figs. 1-8.

The rear spacer member 422 is preferably made of a soft cushion member such as elastomeric (foamed plastic or foamed rubber) material, felt or other suitable materials. It is preferably adhered to the rear panel 22 by means of an adhesive.

The up-standing wall portion 437 shown in Fig. 19 provides the appropriate spacing and stiffness to retain the CD in place securely between the outer tab 461 and the rear cushion member 422.

Fig. 23 illustrates another embodiment of the invention having tabs 561, 571, 561', 571' at the upper and lower portions of the side sections 523, 524. The sections 523, 524 can take the form of any of the sections 23, 24 discussed hereinabove, but instead of only having tabs at either the lower portion of the side sections (Figs. 1-8) or the upper portion of the side sections (Fig. 9) , the embodiment shown in Fig. 23 as two sets of tabs. This arrangement more securely retains the disc CD in position. In operation, the disc is slid either downwardly under tabs 561, 561' and pressed against tabs 571, 571' to "snap over" and under the tabs 571, 571', or the disc can be inserted upwardly in a direction opposite to the direction of arrow E so as to slide under the upper tabs 571, 571', and the lower portion of the disc can be pushed inwardly to snap over and under the lower tabs 561, 561'. In this embodiment, the secondary tabs over which the CD is snapped after insertion under primary tabs can be of smaller inward extension so as to facilitate snapping the CD over and under the projecting tabs.

In all of the above-described embodiments, the circular portions of the side sections 23, 24 (and their equivalents) is closely contoured so as to follow the contour of the CD so that when the CD is inserted, it is securely retained in position without inadvertently falling out of the package. For example, in the embodiment of Figs. 1 and 2, the upper portion of the circular contour of the side sections 23, 24 is preferably contoured so as to contact the side circular peripheral edge of the CD when inserted, so as to frictionally retain the upper portion of the CD in the package. Similarly, the lower portions in the embodiment of Fig. 9 are contoured so as to contact the circular peripheral portions of the CD to retain it in position, preferably by light friction.

As should be clear from the above, the shape of the cut-out portions of the side sections 23, 24 is configured so as to generally follow the shape of the article being held in the package. For example, if an oval disc is used, the shape of the opening defined by the facing portions of the side sections 23, 24 will be suitably configured in a generally oval shape. If a computer floppy disc of generally rectangular shape is to be retained or held in the package, then the contour of the facing portions of the side sections 23, 24 will be generally rectangular, as described below with respect to Figs. 24 and 25.

Fig. 24 shows a disc package configured to hold a computer floppy disc. The disc package of Fig. 24 is^' formed generally similar to the disc package described above with respect to Figs. 1-8, except that a generally straight spine 601, 602 is formed by the folded side sections 623, 624, and a cut-out tab portion 604, 605 is formed at the lower portion of the folded side section 623, 624, as shown in Figs. 24 and 24A.

In the embodiment of Fig. 24, the spines 601, 602 are substantially continuous and the folded side sections 623, 624 do not have cut-out portions at the intermediate parts thereof, except where the tabs 604, 605 are formed.

Fig. 25 shows another embodiment for holding a computer floppy disc. In the embodiment of Fig. 25, which generally corresponds to the embodiment of Figs. 1-8, rectangular cut¬ out portions are formed in the panels of the folded side sections which correspond to panels 25, 26, 27 and 28 of Fig. 8. In the embodiment of Fig. 25, instead of the cut- out portions being generally curved, they are part rectangular in shape, as clearly seen in Fig. 25.

Fig. 25 shows a tab portion 610, 611 at the lower part of the side sections 623, 624 which serves to more positively retain a computer floppy disc in place, when inserted into the package. The tab portions ^"610, 611 are located similarly to portions 61, 61' in Fig. 8, but are differently shaped, as clearly seen in Fig. 25.

All of the above embodiments of the present invention have a main feature in common. That is, all of the above embodiments of the present invention have four spines created at the respective four peripheral edge portions of the package, which spines provide the package with a high degree of structural integrity. For example, referring to Fig. 8, the four spines are spines 36, 36', 50 and 55. Similar spines are provided in the other embodiments and also in Figs. 24 and 25. As clear from the above description, the height of the respective spines can be varied to desired measurements, by varying the material gauge and/or the number of folded panels (for example, panels 25, 26, 27, 28 of Fig. 8) . The cut shape of the panels will determine which application unit the package will hold (compact disc, computer floppy disc, and the like) .

Referring now to Figs. 26 through 35 of the drawings, an alternate form of the compact disc holder 700 (i.e., compact disc package) constructed in accordance with the present invention will now be described. Fig. 26 shows the holder 700 in a folded, closed condition, and Figs. 30 and 31 show the holder 700 in an open, unfolded condition and an open, partially folded condition, respectively. The holder 700 is preferably made of paperboard or other material that can be scored and folded using conventional cardboard carton making machinery.

As shown in Figs. 26 through 35, the compact disc holder 700 comprises a retention panel 702 which is substantially preferably square having opposite first and second surfaces 704, 706. The disc holder 700 also includes lateral engagement sections 708, 710, 712, 714. Each lateral engagement section is proximate a corresponding corner of the retention panel 702. Preferably, two lateral engagement sections (708, 710 and 712, 714) are contiguous with the retention panel 702 along a common side (i.e., edge) of the retention panel 702 as shown in Fig. 30. The lateral engagement sections 708, 710, 712, 714 are preferably formed by generating a fold line 716 along the common edge between the retention panel and the respective lateral engagement section. The lateral engagement sections are thereafter capable of being rotated about the fold line and superposed upon at least a portion of the first surface 704 of the retention panel 702. While it is preferred that the lateral engagement sections are contiguous with the retention panel, it is foreseen that sections 708, 710, 712, 714 may be formed from material which is not contiguous with the retention panel 702.

Preferably, lateral engagement sections 708, 710, 712, 714 are cut to proper form (Fig. 30) during a stamping or cutting process wherein the entire paperboard layout which forms the holder is cut during a single machine operation. However, it is foreseen that each lateral engagement section may be initially square as shown in phantom in Fig. 30. Therefore during manufacturing, each section has an arc-like cutout 718 removed therefrom. The arc-like cutout 718 is removed from each section 708, 710, 712, 714 such that when the lateral engagement sections are rotated about the respective fold lines 716 and secured to retention panel 702, a substantially circular region 720 (shown in phantom in Fig. 31) of the retention panel will be evident for placement of a disc. The cutout 718 preferably defines a curved edge 722 of lateral engagement section 708, 710, 712, 714. The curved edge 722 extends from a starting point that is proximate the edge that is common with the retention panel and distally located with respect to a corner of the retention panel, to a point which is substantially diagonally opposite the starting point. The curved edge 722 of each lateral engagement section preferably has a radius of curvature which is not less than, and is substantially equal to, the radius of curvature of the disc which is to be secured within the holder. As shown in Fig. 31, the arc-like cutouts are removed such that a compact disc will substantially frictionally engage each curved edge 722 to inhibit lateral movement of the disc within the holder. The arc-like cutout 718 is preferably removed, and the curved edge 722 is correspondingly formed, using the aforementioned conventional cardboard carton making machinery.

In the preferred embodiment, the disc holder 700 also includes two disc retainment tabs 724, 726 which are preferably contiguous with the retention panel 702 such that each tab shares at least a portion of a common edge with the retention panel 702 as shown in Fig. 30. In the preferred embodiment, the tabs 724, 726 are formed along a common side (i.e., edge) of the retention panel. However, it is foreseen that the tabs may be located along different sides (i.e., edges) of the retention panel. As shown in Fig. 30, the disc retainment tabs 724, 726 are formed by fold lines 728, 730 between the retention panel and each tab. The combination of the two fold lines 728, 730 defines a spine 732 therebetween, which enables the tab to be substantially rotated and superposed over at least a portion of the retention panel 702. The distance between fold lines 728, 730 substantially corresponds to the thickness of lateral engagement sections 710, 712. Spine 732 acts as a spacer so that lateral engagement section 710, 712 can be located between the corresponding disc retainment tab 724, 726 and the retention panel 702, as will be described in detail below, as shown in Fig. 31, and more clearly shown in Fig. 32. While spine 732 has been shown in the drawings and described above, it is foreseen that each tab 724, 726 may include only one fold line. However, even without spine 732, tabs 724, 726 are capable of being superposed over at least a portion of retention panel 702.

Similar to that described above regarding the formation of lateral engagement sections 708, 710, 712 and 714, the disc retainment tabs 724, 726 are preferably cut to their required form during a single cutting process wherein the entire paperboard layout which forms the holder is cut during a machine operation. However, it is foreseen that each disc retainment tab may be initially square as shown in phantom in Fig. 30. Therefore during manufacturing, the tabs have an arc-like cutout 734 removed therefrom. The arc-like cutout 734 is removed so as to define a curved edge 736.

When the tabs are rotated about fold lines 728, 730 and spine 732, a substantially semi-circular region 738 (shown in phantom in Fig. 32) of the retention panel will be defined. The curved edge 736 of the tabs 726, 728 preferably has a radius of curvature which is less than the radius of curvature of the disc which is to be secured in the compact disc holder. The curved edge 736 extends from a starting point that is proximate the edge that is common with the retention panel and distally located with respect to a corner of the retention panel, to a point which is substantially diagonally opposite the starting point. As shown in Figs. 27 and 32, the arc-like cutouts 734 are removed from the tabs such that at least a portion of the tab defined by the curved edge 736 will extend beyond a corresponding lateral engagement section 710, 712. By extending the curved edge beyond the lateral engagement section, the tab will engage the compact disc so that it will be retained within the holder.

After the curved edges 722, 736 and fold lines 7l6, 728, 730 have been formed, the disc package 700 is constructed by substantially rotating lateral engagement sections 708, 710, 712 and 714 about corresponding fold lines 716. The lateral engagement sections are rotated onto the first surface 704 of the retention panel 702 as shown by arrows A, B, C, D in Fig. 31. The lateral engagement sections 708, 710, 712, 714 are secured to the first surface of retention panel 702 by means of an adhesive 740 (such as glue) applied on an inside surface 742 of each lateral engagement section or to the first surface of the retention panel itself. Thereafter, tabs 724, 726, preferably having adhesive applied on inside surface 744, are rotated about fold lines 728, 730 and spine 732 onto the outer surface 746 of tabs 710, 712 respectively as shown in Fig. 31 by arrows E and F. It is foreseen that the adhesive may also be applied in another manner on alternate or complementary surfaces to achieve the same result.

The adhesive 740 is of sufficient strength to maintain sections 708, 710, 712, 714 in a folded condition (and in contact with the retention panel 702) , and to maintain tabs 724, 726 in a folded condition and in substantial contact with corresponding sections 710, 712. In lieu of an adhesive, other forms of fastening may be employed such as stapling or engagable hook and loop material. However, adhesive is the preferred method of securement.

Preferably, the curved edge 722 of the lateral engagement sections 708, 710, 712, 714 have curvatures which generally follow the curvature of the circular peripheral edge of the disc. In the preferred embodiment, there is no space between the circular peripheral edge of the disc and the curved edge 722 so as to provide structural integrity to the overall disc holder when a disc is retained therein. All of the curved edges are preferably die-cut, in a conventional manner. The various fold lines are also formed in a conventional manner using a conventional machine for forming such fold lines, for example, as used in a carton- making apparatus.

While the arc-like cutout of the disc retainment tab has been described above, disc retainment tab 724, 726 need not necessarily include curved edge 736. Instead, the edge could have another shape. However, the curved edge 736 is preferred because a substantial portion of the periphery of the disc is engaged by the tabs with minimal obstruction during disc insertion and removal.

Having described the compact disc holder structure, the operation and use of the holder 700 will now be described. Referring again to Fig. 26, the compact disc is positioned adjacent to and substantially parallel to the holder. The disc is inserted into the holder 700 by moving the disc in the direction of arrow G so that the lower portion 748 of the disc fits under at least a portion of tabs 724, 726 and so that the curved edge 722 of lateral engagement section 710, 712 substantially frictionally engage the peripheral edge of the disc. Fig. 29, which is a cross-section of Fig. 26, illustrates the position of the disc in the holder after manipulation as indicated by arrow G.

After reaching the position beneath tabs 710, 712, upper portion 750 of the disc is pushed in a direction of arrow H so that the curved edge 722 of lateral engagement section 708, 714 substantially frictionally engage the peripheral edge of the disc. Fig. 28, which is a cross section of the relevant portion of Fig. 26, illustrates the position of the disc in the holder after manipulation as indicated by arrow H.

When the disc is mounted in the holder as shown in detail in Fig. 26, the lateral engagement sections which restrict a lateral movement of the disc also act as spacer members to sufficiently space the top surface of the disc from the inner surface 744 of the disc retainment tab 724,

726. It is foreseen that the disc holder 700 of the present invention may house a plurality of compact discs if the thickness of lateral engagement sections 708, 710, 712, 714 is sufficient to accommodate more than one disc. However, the holder is preferably designed to retain only one disc.

The compact disc is removed from the holder 700 by forcing the upper portion 750 of the disc outward in the direction of arrow I so as to disengage the curved edge 722 of lateral engagement sections 708, 714. Then, the disc is lifted upward in a direction of arrow J so as to release the disc from retainment behind tabs 724, 726, thereby enabling the disc to be easily removed from the package 26.

Referring now to Figs. 33 through 35 a modified arrangement of the compact disc holder 700 is shown. The modified disc holder is substantially the same as the embodiment shown in Figs. 26 through 32, expect that the holder further comprises a cover panel 752. The cover panel is preferably contiguous with retention panel 702. The cover panel 752 is preferably substantially the same size as retention panel 702. The cover panel and retention panel preferably share a common edge as shown in Figs. 33 through 35. The cover panel is preferably formed by the generation of fold lines 754, 756 between the cover panel 752 and the retention panel 702 along their commonly connected edge. The fold lines 754, 756 are spaced apart to define a spine 758 therebetween which acts as a spacer and a stiffening member to make the package more rigid and to prevent damage to the disc stored therein. The spine 758 is formed to provide sufficient spacing to permit the cover panel to be folded and contact the outer surface 760 of tabs 724, 726 when the panel is rotated as indicated by arrow K in Fig. 33.

As is clear from the above description, the height of the respective spines for forming the cover panel and the disc retainment tabs can be varied to desired measurements corresponding to the thickness and number of layers of material, and as the material gauge varies. However, while spine 758 has been shown in Figs. 33-35 and described above, it is foreseen that the cover panel 752 may include only one fold line. However, even without spine 758, cover panel 752 is capable of being rotated and superposed over retention panel 702.

The compact disc holder of the present invention enables a user to easily insert and remove a compact disc. The disc, while having its label exposed, is securely protected even though the holder is made of paperboard or similar materials using conventional carton making machinery.

Referring now to Fig. 36, an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown. Fig. 36 shows a modified arrangement which is substantially similar to the embodiment of Figs. 1-8, and specifically Fig. 7. The similarities between the embodiments of Figs. 7 and 36 will not be repeated here. Only the features of Fig. 36 which are not shown in Fig. 7 will be described.

In addition to that discussed above in connection with

Figs. 1-8 and particularly Fig. 7, the alternate embodiment of the disc package 800 shown in Fig. 36 includes two tabs (i.e., disc retainment tabs) 802, 802' which respectively extend from folded side sections 23, 24 of the disc package. The tabs 802, 802' are preferably respectively contiguous with the folded side sections 23, 24 such that each tab 802, 802' shares at least a portion of a common edge with sections 23, 24 as shown in Fig. 36. In the preferred embodiment, the tabs 802, 802' are formed at approximately the same location on corresponding folded side sections 23, 24' as shown in Fig. 36. Preferably the tab 802 extends from section 23 toward section 24, while tab 802' extends from section 24 toward section 23. Tabs 802, 802' are spaced from rear panel 22 a sufficient distance to accommodate insertion of at least one disc, therein. In a preferred embodiment, the distance between the rear panel and the tabs 802, 802' is equivalent to the distance between the rear panel and the tabs 61, 61'. However, it is foreseen that the distance between the rear panel and tabs 802, 802' may be greater than or less than the distance between the rear panel and the tabs 61, 61'. The tabs 802, 802' preferably have a plurality of slits 804, 804' which are substantially perpendicular to an edge 806, 806' of respective tabs 802, 802'. The tabs 802, 802' extend over a surface portion of an inserted disc to retain the inserted disc within the disc package 800. The slits 804, 804' enable the disc to be more easily positioned (i.e., "snapped" in place) under the tabs 802, 802'. The slits provide more flexibility to the tabs and provide more "give" than tabs which do not have slits. This allows the disc to be more easily inserted. In addition, the slits provide more flexibility to the tabs without substantial permanent deformation of the tabs when the disc is inserted into and removed from the disc package.

Referring now to Fig. 37, the insertion and removal of a disc is shown. The compact disc CD is inserted into position in the package 800 by moving the disc in the direction of arrow A so that two lower locations along the peripheral edge of the compact disc CD fit into position beneath the tabs 61, 61'. After reaching this position beneath tabs 61, 61', the remainder of the disc is pushed in the direction of arrow B so as to contact tabs 802, 802' whereby the tabs 802, 802' flex and the disc snaps into place beneath tabs 802, 802' so as to become seated in position as shown in Fig. 37. The slits 804, 804' in the tabs 802, 802' enable the tabs to flex when the disc is pressed thereon, and to substantially return to an original position without deformation. The pocket panel 16 may then be swung about its score lines so that the face of its sleeve 20 faces the label side of the compact disc CD. The closure flap 12 may then be folded along its score lines to close the compact disc package 800 in a manner similar to that shown in Fig. 1. The manner of closing the closure flap 12, i.e., through insertion into slit 14, may be replaced by other conventional fastening techniques, such as with engaging hook and loop material, velcro and the like.

Referring again to Fig. 37, the compact disc CD is removed from the package 800 by pulling the upper edge of the CD outwardly in the direction of arrow C so as to contact tabs 802, 802'. When the disc is further moved in the direction of arrow C, the disc will "snap" over the tabs such that the tabs are interposed between the disc and the rear panel 22. Movement of the disc in the direction of arrow C is continued such that the peripheral edges of the disc clear the inner sidewall portions 25, 25' of the folded side sections 23, 24. Then, the CD is lifted upwardly in the direction of the arrow D so as to release the CD from the tabs 61, 61', thereby enabling the CD to be easily removed from the package 800.

With the addition of the tabs having slits, the compact disc can be easily inserted, retained and removed from the compact disc package with less deformation of the package (i.e., tabs) than if the tabs did not have slits. It is foreseen that more than two tabs 902, 902' could be included in the invention and that tabs 902, 902' could replace or be combined with tabs 61, 61'. It is also foreseen that the tabs 902, 902' could be added to any of the embodiments of

Figs. 1-25 and specifically to the embodiment which includes the computer floppy shown in Figs. 24-25.

Referring now to Fig. 38, an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown. Fig. 38 shows a modified arrangement which is substantially similar to the embodiment of Figs. 26-35, and specifically Fig. 26. The similarities between the embodiments of Figs. 38 and 26 will not be repeated here. Only the features of Fig. 38 which are not shown in Fig. 26 will be described.

In addition to that discussed above in connection with Figs. 26-35 and particularly Fig. 26, the alternative embodiment of the disc package 900 shown in Fig. 38 includes two tabs (i.e., disc retainment tabs) 902, 902' which are preferably contiguous with lateral engagement sections 714, 708 respectively. The tabs 902, 902' preferably extend from a respective lateral engagement section such that each tab 902, 902' shares at least a portion of a common edge with a respective lateral engagement section as shown in Fig. 38. In the preferred embodiment, the tabs 902, 902' are formed at approximately the same location on corresponding lateral engagement sections as shown in Fig. 38. However, it is foreseen that the tabs may be located at different positions along corresponding edges of a respective lateral engagement section. Preferably, tab 902 extends from lateral engagement section 714 toward section 710, while tab 902' extends from section 708 toward section 712. Tab 902, 902' are spaced from the retention panel 702 a sufficient distance to accommodate insertion of at least one disc, and preferably a plurality of discs therein. In a preferred embodiment, the distance between the retention panel 702 and the tabs 902, 902' is equivalent to the distance between the rear panel and the disc retainment tabs 724, 726. However, it is foreseen that the distance between the retention panel 702 and the tabs 902, 902' may be greater than or less than the distance between the retention panel and the disc retainment tabs 724, 726.

The tabs 902, 902' preferably have a plurality of slits 904, 904' which are substantially perpendicular to an edge 906, 906' of respective tabs 902, 902'. The tabs 902, 902' extend over a surface portion of an inserted disc to retain the inserted disc within the disc package 900. The slits 904, 904' enable the disc to be more easily positioned (i.e., "snapped" in place) under the tabs 902, 902'. The slits provide more flexibility to the tabs and provide more "give" than tabs which do not have slits. This allows the disc to be more easily inserted. In addition, the slits provide more flexibility to the tabs without substantial permanent deformation of the tabs when the disc is inserted into and removed from the disc package.

Having described the structure of the compact disc holder 900, the operation and use of the holder 900 will now be described. Referring again to Fig. 38, the compact disc is positioned adjacent to and substantially parallel to the holder. The disc is inserted into the holder 900 by moving the disc in the direction of arrow G so that the lower portion 748 of the disc fits under at least a portion of tabs 724, 726 and so that the curved edge 722 of lateral engagement sections 710, 712 substantially frictionally engage the peripheral edge of the disc.

After reaching a position beneath tabs 710, 712, upper portion 750 of the disc is pushed in the direction of arrow H so as to contact tabs 902, 902'. The disc is then further pushed in the direction of arrow H, such that tabs 902, 902' flex and then the disc "snaps" into place beneath discs 902, 902' so as to become seated in position as shown in Fig. 38. The slits 904, 904' in the tabs 902, 902' enable the tabs to flex when the disc is pressed thereon, and to substantially return to an original position without deformation. After reaching the position beneath tabs 902, 902', the upper portions 750 of the disc is retained in the package by the tabs 902, 902'. In addition, the curved edge 722 of lateral engagement sections 708, 714 preferably substantially frictionally engage the peripheral edge of the upper portions 750 of the disc.

The compact disc is removed from the package 900 by forcing the upper portion 720 of the disc outward in the direction of arrow I so as to disengage the curved edge 722 of lateral engagement sections 708, 714. The disc is further forced in the direction of arrow I so as to engage tabs 904, 904' and then "snap" over the tabs such that the tabs are interposed between the disc and the retention panel 702. Thereafter, the CD is lifted upwardly in the direction of arrow J so as to release the CD from frictional engagement with curved edges 722 of lateral engagement sections 710, 712 behind tabs 724, 726 thereby enabling the disc to be easily removed from the package 900.

Although illustrative embodiments of the present invention have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various other changes and modifications may be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A disc package, comprising: a retention panel defining a plane; folded sidewall sections extending out of said plane from said retention panel, said sidewall sections having edges facing each other and contoured to substantially correspond to a periphery of a disc for accommodating insertion of the disc between said facing edges; and tabs extending from a small portion of each of said sidewall sections toward the other of said sidewall sections, and being spaced from said plane by a distance sufficient for accommodating a thickness of the disc between said plane and said tabs, said tabs extending over a surface portion of the inserted disc to retain the inserted disc.

2. A package as in claim 1, further comprising a pocket panel sharing a common side with said retention panel, said pocket panel having a sleeve that defines a pocket into which material may be removably contained, said common side having a score line for folding said sleeve about said score line and into contact with said sidewall sections.

3. A package as in claim 2, wherein said sidewall sections each have two ends, a first of said two ends being closer to said common side than that of a second of said r.wo ends, said tabs extending only from respective ones of s-,_d first of said two ends.

4. A package as in claim 2, wherein said sidewalls each have two ends, a first of said two ends being closer to said common side than that of a second of said two ends, said tabs extending only from respective ones of said second of said two ends.

5. A package as in claim 4, wherein said sidewalls each have two ends, a first of said two ends being closer to said common side than that of a second of said two ends, said tabs extending only from respective ones of said second of said two ends.

6. A package as in claim 1, wherein said tabs have an edge defining a curved contour having a radius of curvature, a remainder of said sidewalls having a curved contour whose radius of curvature substantially conforms to that of the periphery of the disc and which is greater in magnitude than that of said radius of curvature of said tabs.

7. A package as in claim 2, further comprising a closure flap sharing with said retention panel a different common side and having score lines which permit said closure flap to fold onto said pocket panel after said sleeve contacts said sidewalls, further comprising means for fastening said closure flap into position on said pocket panel for keeping said sleeve in contact with said sidewalls.

8. A package as in claim 1, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least three folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

9. A package as in claim 1, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least four folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

10. A package as in claim 1, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least five folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

11. A package as in claim 1, further comprising: a cover panel sharing a common side with said retention panel for covering at least a portion of a disc retained in the disc package, a spine being formed between said cover panel and said retention panel at said common side; and a closure flap sharing with said retention panel a different common side and having a further spine formed between said retention panel and said closure flap, said closure flap engaging said cover flap to close the disc package; and wherein said folded side wall sections define respective spines extending out from said plane of said retention panel, whereby the resulting package has four spines at four respective sides of said disc package for strengthening said disc package and protecting a disc retained in said disc package.

12. A disc package, comprising: a retention panel defining a plane; folded sidewall sections extending out of said plane from said retention panel, said sidewall sections having edges acing each other and contoured to substantially correspond to a periphery of a disc for accommodating insertion of the disc between said facing edges; and at least one tab extending from one of said sidewall sections toward the other of said sidewall sections and being spaced from said plane by a distance sufficient for accommodating a thickness of the disc.

13. A package as in claim 12, further comprising a pocket panel sharing a common side with said retention panel, said pocket panel having a sleeve that defines a pocket into which promotional material may be removably contained, said common side having a score line for folding said sleeve about said score line and into contact with said sidewall sections.

14. A package as in claim 13, wherein said sidewall sections each have two ends, a first of said two ends being closer to said common side than that of a second of said two ends, said tab extending from said first of said two ends of at least one of said one sidewall sections.

15. A package as in claim 13, wherein said sidewall sections each have two ends, a first of said two ends being closer to said common side than that of a second of said two ends, said tab extending from said second of said two ends of at least one of said sidewall sections.

16. A package as in claim 13, wherein said sidewall sections each have two ends, a first of said two ends being closer to said common side than that of a second of said two ends, said tab extending from both of said ends of at least one of said sidewall sections.

17. A package as in claim 12, wherein said tab has an edge defining a curved contour having a radius of curvature, a remainder of said one sidewall having a curved contour whose radius of curvature substantially conforms to that of the periphery of the disc and which is greater in magnitude than that of said radius of curvature of said tab.

18. A package as in claim 13, further comprising a closure flap sharing with said retention panel a different common side and having score lines which permit said closure flap to fold onto said pocket panel after said sleeve contacts said sidewalls, and further comprising means for fastening said closure flap into position on said pocket panel for keeping said sleeve in contact with said sidewalls.

19. A package as in claim 12, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least three folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

20. A package as in claim 12, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least four folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

21. A package as in claim 12, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least five folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

22. A package as in claim 12, further comprising: a cover panel sharing a common side with said retention panel for covering at least a portion of a disc retained in the disc package, a spine being formed between said cover panel and said retention panel at said common side; and a closure flap sharing with said retention panel a different common side and having a further spine formed between said retention panel and said closure flap, said closure flap engaging said cover flap to close the disc package; and wherein said folded side wall sections define respective spines extending out from said plane of said retention panel, whereby the resulting package has four spines at four respective sides of said disc package for strengthening said disc package and protecting a disc retained in said disc package.

23. A disc package for retaining a disc having a side peripheral edge, comprising: a retention panel defining a plane; folded sidewall sections extending out of said plane from said retention panel, said sidewall sections having edges facing each other and contoured to substantially correspond to the peripheral edge of a disc for accommodating insertion of the disc between said facing edges, the sidewall sections being contoured so as to contact the side peripheral edge of the disc so as to frictionally retain the disc in the package.

24. A package as in claim 23, further comprising a pocket panel sharing a common side with said retention panel, said pocket panel having a sleeve that defines a pocket into which material may be removably contained, said common side having a score line for folding said sleeve about said score line and into contact with said sidewall sections.

25. A package as in claim 23, wherein said sidewall sections each have two ends, a first of said two ends being closer to said common side than that of a second of said two ends.

26. A package as in claim 23, further comprising a closure flap sharing with said retention panel a different common side and having score lines which permit said closure flap to fold onto said pocket panel after said sleeve contacts said sidewalls, further comprising means for fastening said closure flap into position on said pocket panel for keeping said sleeve in contact with said sidewalls.

27. A package as in claim 23, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least three folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

28. A package as in claim 23, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least four folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

29. A package as in claim 23, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least five folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

30. A package as in claim 23, further comprising: a cover panel sharing a common side with said retention panel for covering at least a portion of a disc retained in the disc package, a spine being formed between said cover panel and said retention panel at said common side; and a closure flap sharing with said retention panel a different common side and having a further spine formed between said retention panel and said closure flap, said closure flap engaging said cover flap to close the disc package; and wherein said folded side wall sections define respective spines extending out from said plane of said retention panel, whereby the resulting package has four spines at four respective sides of said disc package for strengthening said disc package and protecting a disc retained in said disc package.

31. A package as in claim 23, further comprising: tabs extending from a small portion of each of said sidewall sections toward the other of said sidewall sections, and being spaced from said plane by a distance sufficient for accommodating a thickness of the disc, said tabs contacting the inserted disc to frictionally retain the inserted disc.

32. A disc package for retaining a disc having an edge defining a radius of curvature, comprising: a retention panel defining a plane having first and second surfaces, the first surface of said retention panel being in substantial contact with a face of said disc when the disc is inserted within said disc package; a plurality of lateral engagement sections superposed with respect to the first surface of the retention panel, each of the plurality of lateral engagement sections having a curved edge which substantially corresponds to said disc edge for accommodating insertion of said disc, engagement of said disc edge and lateral retention of said disc; and disc retainment tab extending from at least one of said plurality of lateral engagement sections, the disc retainment tab being non-planar with respect to the retention panel plane, the disc retainment tab corresponding one of said plurality of lateral engagement sections, at least a portion of said disc retainment tab extending over at least a portion of the first surface of the retention panel to substantially engage at least a portion of a surface of said inserted disc and retain the disc therein.

33. A disc package as defined by claim 32, wherein the plurality of lateral engagement sections are contiguous with the retention panel.

34. A disc package as defined by claim 33, wherein the plurality of lateral engagement sections share at least a portion of a common edge with said retention panel, said common edge having a fold line for folding the lateral engagement section into substantial contact with said retention panel first surface.

35. A disc package as defined by claim 32, wherein the disc retainment tab is contiguous with the retention panel.

36. A disc package as defined by claim 35, wherein the disc retainment tab shares at least a portion of a common edge with said retention panel, said common edge having a fold line for folding the disc retainment tab into substantial engagement with at least one of said lateral engagement sections.

37. A disc package as defined by claim 36, the disc retainment tab having an edge, wherein the portion of said disc retainment tab which extends over the first surface of the retention panel includes said edge.

38. A disc package as defined by claim 37, wherein said edge of said disc retainment tab is curved, and wherein the curved edge has a radius of curvature which is less than the radius of curvature of said disc edge.

39. A disc package as defined by claim 32 further comprising: a cover panel being contiguous with said retention panel and sharing with said retention panel a common edge, said common edge having a fold line for folding the cover panel into substantial superposition with said retention panel, said cover panel covering at least a portion of the disc retained in the package.

40. A disc package as defined by claim 32, wherein one of said plurality of lateral engagement sections is interposed between the retention panel and the disc retainment tab.

41. A disc package as defined by claim 32, wherein the disc package comprises four lateral engagement sections and two disc retainment tabs.

42. A disc package for retaining a disc having a side peripheral edge, comprising: a retention panel defining a plane having first and second surfaces, the first surface of said retention panel being in substantial contact with a face of said disc when the disc is inserted within said disc package; a plurality of lateral engagement sections superposed with respect to the first surface of the retention panel, each of the plurality of lateral engagement sections having an edge which substantially corresponds to said side peripheral edge for accommodating insertion of said disc, engagement of said disc edge and lateral retention of said disc, the plurality of lateral engagement sections being contoured so as to contact the side peripheral edge of the disc so as to frictionally retain the disc in the package.

43. A disc package as defined in claim 42, further comprising: disc retainment tab extending from at least one of said plurality of lateral engagement sections, the disc retainment tab being non-planar with respect to the retention panel plane, the disc retainment tab corresponding one of said plurality of lateral engagement sections, at least a portion of said disc retainment tab contacting the inserted disc to substantially engage at least a portion of said inserted disc to retain the disc therein.

44. A disc package as defined by claim 42, wherein the plurality of lateral engagement sections are contiguous with the retention panel.

45. A disc package as defined by claim 42, wherein the plurality of lateral engagement sections share at least a portion of a common edge with said retention panel, said common edge having a fold line for folding the lateral engagement section into substantial contact with said retention panel first surface.

46. A disc package as defined by claim 42 further comprising: a cover panel being contiguous with said retention panel and sharing with said retention panel a common edge, said common edge having a fold line for folding the cover panel into substantial superposition with said retention panel, said cover panel covering at least a portion of the disc retained in the package.

47. A disc package as defined by claim 42, wherein the disc package comprises four lateral engagement sections and two disc retainment tabs.

48. A disc package, comprising: a retention panel defining a plane; folded sidewall sections extending out of said plane from said retention panel, said folded sidewall sections having edges facing each other and contoured to substantially correspond to a periphery of a disc for accommodating insertion of the disc between said facing edges; a first tab extending from a small portion of at least one of said sidewall sections toward the other of said sidewall sections, and being spaced from said plane by a first distance sufficient for accommodating a thickness of the disc between said plane and said first tab, said first tab extending over a surface portion of the inserted disc to retain the inserted disc; and a second tab extending from a small portion of at least one of said sidewall sections toward the other of said sidewall sections, and being spaced from said plane by a second distance sufficient for accommodating the thickness of the disc between said plane and said second tab, said second tab extending over a surface portion of the inserted disc to retain the inserted disc, said second tab having a plurality of slits therethrough making the second tab resilient such that said disc is relatively easily provided between said second tab and said plane and relatively easily removed therefrom.

49. A package as in claim 48, further comprising a pocket panel sharing a common side with said retention panel, said pocket panel having a sleeve that defines a pocket into which material may be removably contained, said common side having a score line for folding said sleeve about said score line and into contact with said sidewall sections.

50. A package as in claim 49, further comprising a closure flap sharing with said retention panel a different common side and having score lines which permit said closure flap to fold onto said pocket panel after said sleeve contacts said sidewalls, further comprising means for fastening said closure flap into position on said pocket panel for keeping said sleeve in contact with said sidewalls.

51. A package as in claim 48, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least three folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

52. A package as in claim 48, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least four folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

53. A package as in claim 48, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least five folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

54. A package as in claim 48, further comprising: a cover panel sharing a common side with said retention panel for covering at least a portion of a disc retained in the disc package, a spine being formed between said cover panel and said retention panel at said common side; and a closure flap sharing with said retention panel a different common side and having a further spine formed between said retention panel and said closure flap, said closure flap engaging said cover flap to close the disc package; and wherein said folded side wall sections define respective spines extending out from said plane of said retention panel, whereby the resulting package has four spines at four respective sides of said disc package for strengthening said disc package and protecting a disc retained in said disc package.

55. A package as in claim 48 wherein the first distance is substantially equivalent to the second distance.

56. A package as in claim 48 wherein the first distance is not equivalent to the second distance.

57. A disc package, comprising: a retention panel defining a plane; folded sidewall sections extending out of said plane from said retention panel, said sidewall sections having edges facing each other and contoured to substantially correspond to a periphery of a disc for accommodating insertion of the disc between said facing edges; at least a first tab extending from one of said sidewall sections substantially toward the other of said sidewall sections and being spaced from said plane by a first distance sufficient for accommodating a thickness of the disc; and at least a second tab extending from one of the sidewall sections substantially toward the other of said sidewall sections and being spaced from said plane by a second distance sufficient for accommodating the thickness of the disc, the at least a second tab having a plurality of slits therethrough.

58. A package as in claim 57, further comprising a pocket panel sharing a common side with said retention panel, said pocket panel having a sleeve that defines a pocket into which promotional material may be removably contained, said common side having a score line for folding said sleeve about said score line and into contact with said sidewall sections.

59. A package as in claim 58, further comprising a closure flap sharing with said retention panel a different common side and having score lines which permit said closure flap to fold onto said pocket panel after said sleeve contacts said sidewalls, and further comprising means for fastening said closure flap into position on said pocket panel for keeping said sleeve in contact with said sidewalls.

60. A package as in claim 57, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least three folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

61. A package as in claim 57, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least four folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

62. A package as in claim 57, wherein said folded sidewall sections each comprise at least five folded panels separated one from the other by at least one respective fold line, said panels each being folded at said fold lines and arranged so that at least one of said panels is nested between two others of said panels, said sidewall sections each sharing with said retention panel a respective common side having a fold line in a folded condition.

63. A package as in claim 57, further comprising: a cover panel sharing a common side with said retention panel for covering at least a portion of a disc retained in the disc package, a spine being formed between said cover panel and said retention panel at said common side; and a closure flap sharing with said retention panel a different common side and having a further spine formed between said retention panel and said closure flap, said closure flap engaging said cover flap to close the disc package; and wherein said folded side wall sections define respective spines extending out from said plane of said retention panel, whereby the resulting package has four spines at four respective sides of said disc package for strengthening said disc package and protecting a disc retained in said disc package.

64. A package as in claim 57, wherein the first distance is substantially equivalent to the second distance.

65. A package as in claim 57, wherein the first distance is not equivalent to the second distance.