Package having product clamping for card-like products

Abstract

A package for one or a plurality of card-like items is provided, having a protective outer shell and an inner insert into which the card-like items may be placed. The shell and insert may be a monolithic structure, or they may be produced separately, possibly of different materials--although both are typically corrugated cardboard. The insert has front, bottom, and rear articulated panels, each having a fold line along the length thereof so that each panel protrudes inwardly into the interior of the shell at the fold line, and a cover panel. At least one and usually a plurality of slots is formed in each of the articulated panels, so that an edge of any card-like item to be placed into the package is inserted into the slots. In general, as the edge of each card-like item intrudes into the slot in the bottom articulated panel, and the cover panel is closed over the top edge, at least the rear articulated panel tends to protrude further into the shell to secure the item. Compression tabs are provided to co-operate with the cover panel and the top of the shell, so as to enhance the clamping action for each card-like item. The spaces formed outside the insert and within the shell provide a measure of crush protection for the products, and the articulation of the panels of the insert provide a measure of shock absorption for each card-like item secured within the package.