DESC:FORM-2

THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 OF 1970)
and
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)

“A PROTECTIVE JACKET FOR ENCASEMENT OF CONE ICE-CREAM”

HOCCO Foods Private Limited
An Indian Company
Having address at
1201-1204 and 1301-1302,
Elanza Vertex, Bodakdev,
Ahmedabad – 380054, Gujarat, India.

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of ice cream covers. More particularly, the invention discloses a protective packaging jacket for encasement of ice-creams. Said invention aims to provide a packaging solution that maintains the shape of ice creams during supply chain and distribution operations and tackles the challenges associated with the packaging of smaller volume/sized cones by providing a cost-effective alternative.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
An ice-cream is a delicious treat that is enjoyed by all kinds of people. An ice-cream cone with its crisp, waffle-like texture and perfect cone shape along with a scoop of creamy, flavourful ice cream makes a satisfying and enjoyable experience for all. However, this joy of indulging in a delicious ice-cream cone can quickly diminish when the cone comes broken, twisted, or even ruined because of poor and inadequate packaging.
Inadequate packaging can lead to several issues with cones, including deformation such as bending, crushing, or other distortions that negatively impact their appearance and consumer appeal. There is also a risk of contamination if the packaging is not adequately secured, exposing the cones to potential threats like dust, dirt, insects, or bacteria, which can compromise their safety and quality. Furthermore, damaged cones may become unusable, resulting in product loss and a decline in revenue for both manufacturers and retailers. Additionally, inefficient packaging can lead to increased costs due to the need for extra handling, additional storage space, and potentially higher shipping fees, all of which contribute to the overall expense of the product.
These challenges can negatively impact the user experience, brand reputation, and profitability of the ice cream industry. Existing packaging solutions for cone ice-creams often use thin paper sheets for covering said ice cream. Said thin paper sheets, commonly used for covering ice cream, pose the risk of direct contact with the product, leading to potential contamination from dirt and bacteria. Additionally, these conventional packaging solutions fail to adequately protect the ice cream cones from deformation or breakage, which can result in increased costs for manufacturers. Furthermore, the lack of cost-effective options for smaller-sized ice cream cones can contribute to higher product costs.
Hence there persists a need to come up with an effective packaging solution to over-come the afore-mentioned limitations of existing packaging product, that ensure the integrity of the ice cream cones during transportation, while also providing users with a safe, high-quality, and enjoyable experience.
PRIOR ART AND ITS DISADVANTAGES
A patent application of Great Britain having patent application no. GB9801332W discloses an ice-cream holder designed to accommodate ice-cream cones within it. Said prior art invention provides a holder that can securely encase an edible ice-cream cone, effectively catching and holding any melted ice cream, thereby enhancing the overall ice cream-eating experience and reducing the potential for spills. Said invention is made from polypropylene and the like material and comprises of two main parts: a body and an inner cone-shaped ring. The cone holder has an upper aperture for the ice cream and a lower aperture for the cone. The inner ring is designed to fit snugly inside the body and can be removed for easy cleaning. When in use, the ice cream cone is placed into the holder, with the cone portion at the bottom and the ice cream portion at the top. The holder effectively catches any melted ice cream, preventing it from dripping onto the user's hands. Furthermore, said invention can also be customized in various shapes and designs for promotional branding.
While the cited prior art invention effectively addresses the issue of melted ice cream dripping onto consumers' hands, it fails to provide an adequate protective mechanism to prevent the ice-cream cone from deformation like breaking or crushing of cone or ice-cream ball, during supply chain operations. Furthermore, said cited prior art invention does not address the issue of contamination of ice-cream cone caused by environmental exposure due to inadequate packaging. Furthermore, said prior art invention also fails to offer a cost-effective solution for packaging smaller-sized ice cream cones, which can lead to increased product costs.
Another US patent application no. US73375676A relates to an appliance for use with ice cream cones which is adapted to serve both as a packing jacket to reinforce the ice-cream cone during the packing operation, and also as a holder for said cones. Said prior art invention comprises of an elongated tubular body made of a stiff material like plastic, and performs the function of a packing jacket and cone holder, one end of said tube tapers inwards, forming a smaller opening designed to snugly fit the top of an ice cream cone. The opposite ends of said tubular body flares outward, creating a wider base for stability. During packing, the cone is inserted into the tapered end of the jacket. Said jacket provides a protective covering and strength to the cone, thereby preventing it from being crushed as ice cream is packed in. Further, said appliance has an annular shelf base which helps place the jacket and cone upright on a flat surface and a cylindrical wall that acts as a support and handle for easy pick-up.
However, even though the prior art invention provides a protective mechanism to prevent the breaking of the ice-cream cones, it fails to provide a jacket mechanism to protect the ice-cream balls/scoop from deformation and contamination. Moreover, said prior art invention also fails to address the problem associated with the packaging of smaller sized cones. Additionally, said prior art invention may also increase the production cost due to the bulky structure of the apparatus.
DISADVANTAGES OF THE PRIOR ART
All of the prior arts suffer from all or at least one of the following disadvantages:
Most of the prior arts fail to provide a protective jacket that is able to encase the whole of cone ice-cream and not limited to only covering the cone.
Most of the prior arts fail to consider the issue of deformation of ice-creams by failing to provide sturdy and adequate packaging.
Most of the prior arts fail to provide a jacket for encasement of ice-cream that protects the cone ice-cream from contamination by bacteria and dirt.
Most of the prior arts fail to provide protective jacket for encasement of cone ice-cream that ensures that the ice-cream remains intact.
Most of the prior arts fail to consider the issue of product loss due to ineffective packaging which may lead to decreased revenue for manufacturers.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
The main object of the present invention is to provide a protective jacket for encasement of ice-creams.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a protective jacket for encasement of ice-creams of varied shapes and sizes that resembles the shape of the ice-cream the closest as possible.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a protective jacket for encasement of cone ice-cream which enables cost-effective packaging of even smaller-sized cones.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a protective jacket for encasement of ice-cream which maintains the integrity of ice-cream cone during supply chain and distribution operations.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a protective jacket for encasement of ice-cream that ensures safety and quality.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a protective jacket for encasement of cone ice-cream that prevents the cone ice-cream from deformation such as crushing or breaking.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a protective jacket for encasement of ice-cream that prevents ice-cream cone from exposure to the environment, thereby saving it from contamination.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a protective jacket for encasement of ice-cream that overcomes the limitations of existing packaging solutions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
Various other objects, features and attendant advantages of the present invention will become fully appreciated as the same becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and wherein:
Fig. 1a: Shows the side view for a protective jacket for encasement of cone ice-cream.
Fig. 1b: Shows the front view of the open configuration for a protective jacket for encasement of cone ice-cream.
Fig. 1c: Shows the top view of the open configuration for a protective jacket for encasement of cone ice cream.
Fig. 1d: Shows the bottom view of the open configuration for a protective jacket for encasement of cone ice-cream.
Fig. 1e: Shows the iso-metric 3D view of the open configuration for a protective jacket for encasement of cone ice-cream.
Fig. 2a: Shows the side view for a protective jacket for encasement of mango-shaped ice-cream.
Fig. 2b: Shows the front view of the open configuration for a protective jacket for encasement of mango-shaped ice-cream.
Fig. 2c: Shows the top view of the open configuration for a protective jacket for encasement of mango-shaped ice cream.
Fig. 2d: Shows the bottom view of the open configuration for a protective jacket for encasement of mango-shaped ice-cream.

List of Reference Numerals
(1) Protective jacket for ice-cream.
(3) Vertical height of jacket for cone
(4) Dome radius of jacket for cone
(5) Cone angle of jacket for cone
(6) Grooves
(7) Hinge mechanism
(8) Product length of jacket for cone
(9) Inner length of jacket for cone
(10) Dome lip radius of jacket for cone
(11) Top radius of jacket for cone
(12) Lip Size of jacket for cone
(13) Angle of opened jacket for cone
(14) Product width of jacket for cone
(15) Hinge width of jacket for cone
(16) Tray locking height of mango-shaped jacket
(17) Lid locking height of mango-shaped jacket
(18) Product length of mango-shaped jacket
(19) Product width of mango-shaped jacket
(20) Inner tray length of mango-shaped jacket
(21) Inner lid length of mango-shaped jacket
(22) Hinge length of mango-shaped jacket
(23) Hinge width of mango-shaped jacket
(24) Hinge height of mango-shaped jacket
(25) Tray bottom radius of mango-shaped jacket
(26) Lid bottom radius of mango-shaped jacket
(27) Total tray height of mango-shaped jacket
(28) Total lid height of mango-shaped jacket
(29) Height of the product when laid flat
(30) locking mechanism

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention discloses a protective jacket (1) for the encasement of ice-creams, configured to prevent deformation and damage during storage and transportation. The jacket (1) is manufactured from A-PET (amorphous polyethylene terephthalate) using a thermoforming process, and is constructed as a single piece from a single material. The jacket is configured to correspond to the shape of the ice-cream it is intended to protect.
The protective jacket comprises a first unit serving as a housing and a second unit acting as a lid. Said units are connected by an integral hinge mechanism, forming an articulated enclosure. Both units feature internal cavities that are configured to securely encase the ice-cream while maintaining its shape.
Said jacket further comprises a plurality of locking mechanisms on the flanges of both units, which facilitate a removable engagement to create a full peripheral seal. A plurality of grooves (6) with a pre-determined height are incorporated into the walls of the units to enhance structural integrity, prevent deformation, and protect the product.
The invention is described through multiple embodiments tailored for different ice-cream shapes.
Referring to an embodiment, the jacket (1) is configured for the encasement of a cone ice-cream. The first and second units are each characterized by a dome-shaped top and a conical bottom. The jacket utilizes three locking mechanisms on one side of the peripheral flanges, where protrusions from the first unit engage with depressions on the second unit to form a seal. Said jacket features eight horizontal grooves (6) that extend along the interior and exterior walls. Grooves on the dome-shaped top are embossed outwardly to protect the soft ice-cream, while grooves on the conical bottom are embossed inwardly to reinforce the brittle cone.
Referring to another embodiment, said jacket is configured for the encasement of ellipsoid-shaped ice-cream. The locking mechanism consists of a full perimeter sealing ridge, with a protruding ridge on the first unit and a complementary receiving ridge on the second unit. A 10° slant on the surface near the lock allows the two halves to wedge together securely. The grooves (6) in this embodiment radiate outwards from the central section of the units, providing both protection for the ice-cream and structural integrity to the jacket.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.
It is to be understood that the term “comprising” or “comprises” used in the specification and claims refers to the element of the invention which comprises X, Y, and Z, which means that the invention might have other elements in addition to X, Y, and Z. For example, their invention could include A, B, and/or C as long as it also has X, Y, and Z.
The dimensions of the aforementioned product are not to be construed as limiting and may be modified in accordance with specific requirements, provided that the intended functionality and desired object are effectively accomplished. Adjustments to size and structure shall be permissible to achieve optimal performance while maintaining the integrity of the invention's purpose.
It is also to be understood that the term "ice-cream" encompasses any and all items. The jacket described herein may be constructed for various item types, employing similar technical specifications. Therefore, said term is intended to be interpreted in the broadest possible context, in alignment with the principles and characteristics disclosed within this document.
The present invention discloses a protective jacket (1) for encasement of ice-creams. Said jacket (1) is made of A-PET (amorphous polyethylene terephthalate) raw material utilizing a thermoforming process and is configured to correspond to the shape of the ice-cream to be encased inside said jacket (1).
Referring to the embodiments shown, said protective jacket for the encasement of ice-creams (1) comprises:
a first unit (1A) configured as a housing for an ice-cream, and
a second unit (1B) configured as a lid to form an articulated enclosure for said ice-cream;
Said first (1A)and the second units (1B) resemble the configuration of the item to be encased inside the jacket (1) and comprise internal cavities configured to securely encase the ice-cream while maintaining its shape.
The units (1A, 1B) are connected via at least one integral hinge mechanism (7) positioned along the edges of their respective flanges such that the jacket (1) is singularly constructed from a single material piece. Said first (1A) and second unit (1B) forming the jacket (1) further comprises:
a plurality of locking mechanisms (30) configured on the flanges of each unit (1A, 1B), to facilitate the removable engagement of both units, resulting in a full peripheral seal, enabling easy opening and closing of the jacket; and

a plurality of small grooves (6) having a pre-determined height incorporated into the walls of said units to enhance structural integrity and rigidity of the units, thereby preventing deformation of the jacket (1) and the products contained inside the jacket (1), during storage and transportation.
Now, referring to the Figure. 1a to 2d, multiple embodiments of the present invention are shown, each specifying a different shape and dimension of the jacket (1), as illustrated below in detail.
Now, referring to Figure 1a – 1e, the jacket is configured for the encasement of cone ice-creams.
In accordance with the embodiments, said jacket comprises a first (1A) unit and a second unit (1B), each characterized by a dome-shaped top section and a conical bottom section. Said two units are connected via a hinge mechanism (7) configured at the flanges of said units.
Referring to Figure 1b, an open configuration of the jacket is shown. According to the embodiments, said first unit (1A) and the second unit (1B) incorporate three locking mechanisms (30) configured on one side of the peripheral flanges. The locking mechanisms configured on the second unit (1B) include protrusions that are configured to removably engage with the corresponding depression on the locking mechanism of the first unit (1A). The protrusion from one unit integrates with the depression of the other unit to facilitate a seal around the periphery of the jacket (1).
It is to be understood that the number of locking mechanisms may be varied without limitation, and these mechanisms may be positioned at any location along the periphery of the flanges.
Again, referring to the embodiments shown in Figures 1a – 1e, the jacket features eight grooves (6) running horizontally, and extending along both the interior and exterior walls of the two units (1A and 1B). As illustrated in Figure 1a, the grooves (6) on the dome-shaped top are embossed outwardly on the exterior side of the wall, while the grooves (6) on the conical bottom are embossed inwardly on the interior side of the wall. Said configuration on the top section of said jacket (1) protects the soft ice-cream top from touching the walls of the jacket (1), thus preventing deformation, while the groove (6) configuration on the bottom section of said jacket (1) acts as structural reinforcement and protects the brittle cone from crushing or breaking.
According to the embodiments, the preferred dimensions for this embodiment include a vertical height (3) of 165.98 ± 0.50 mm and a dome radius (4) of 32 mm. The conical portion has a cone angle (5) of 12°. With reference to Figure 1b, when viewed in its open configuration, the jacket has a product length (8) of 169.35±0.50 mm and a product width of 147.03±0.50 mm. The inner length (9) is 160 mm, with a dome lip radius (10) of 35 mm and a top radius (11) of 38.5 mm., along with the lip size (12) of 3 mm. When fully open, the two halves of the jacket (1) form an angle (13) of 27°. Further, as illustrated in Figures 1c and 1d, the additional dimensions of the jacket (1) include a product height (29) of approximately 36.5 mm when laid flat, a hinge width (15) of 3.5 mm, and a hinge height of 2.5 mm, as illustrated in Figures 1c and 1d.
In another embodiment, the present invention describes a protective jacket (1) for the encasement of differently shaped ice-creams. Referring to Figure 2a, the jacket (1) is configured for the encasement of an ellipsoid ice-cream.
Referring to the embodiments shown in Figure 2b, an open configuration of said jacket (1) is shown. According to the embodiments, said first unit (1A) and the second unit (1B) are connected via hinge mechanism (7). Said jacket (1) comprises a locking mechanism (30) that incorporates a full perimeter sealing ridge. One of the units is characterized by a protruding ridge along the periphery, while the other unit comprises a complementary receiving ridge configured along the periphery. Herein, said protruding ridge of the first unit (1A) removably integrates into the complementary receiving ridge of the second unit (1B), resulting in a full perimeter seal. A 10° slant is provided on the surface near the locking mechanism, allowing the two halves to wedge together securely
Again, referring to the embodiments shown in Figures 1a – 1e, the jacket features a plurality of grooves (6) that radiate outwards from the central section of said two units. Said grooves protect the soft ice-cream top from touching the walls of the jacket and also provide structural integrity to the jacket, hence preventing said ice-cream from being damaged or deformed
According to the embodiments, the preferred dimensions for this embodiment include a tray locking height (16) is 5 mm, and the lid locking height (17) is 5.1 mm. Furthermore, said jacket comprises a product length (18) of 113 mm and a product width (19) of 172 mm. The inner tray length (20) is 102 mm, while the inner lid length (21) is 101 mm. The hinge length (22) is 43 mm, the hinge width (23) is 5 mm, and the hinge height (24) is 3 mm. The jacket bottom radius (25) is 14 mm, the lid bottom radius (26) is 12 mm, and the lip size is 3 mm. Additionally, as depicted in Figure 2d, the jacket has a total tray height (27) of 33.75 mm and a total lid height (28) of 16 mm.
It is to be understood that the dimensions and shape of the product may vary depending on the application of said product. The present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments or dimensions shown but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.
Now, referring to yet another embodiment, a method of manufacturing said jacket (1) for encasement of ice-cream is disclosed. Said method is a thermoforming process and comprises of the following steps:
generating a stainless-steel plate, wherein said plate comprises of a cavity to make one half of the packaging;
generating a plastic pack through the thermoforming process so that the packaging takes the shape of the outer section of the ball top cone or the shape of a mango, wherein
said plastic sheet is heated at a temperature of 117°C to 120°C, where it becomes pliable and moldable, but not melted,
said heated plastic is then positioned over the stainless-steel plate mould,
said pliable sheet placed over the mold is then shaped by applying a vacuum pressure of about is 5 to 7 bar, to force the plastic sheet to conform to the mold's shape,
newly formed plastic part is cooled to solidify and retain its shape;
providing small grooves for locking mechanism to ensure that the ice cream stays intact inside the packaging.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
The advantages of the present invention are as follows:
enables the packaging of items of various shapes and sizes, even smaller-sized cones in a cost-effective manner.
ensures that the item encased remains intact during distribution and supply chain.
ensures safety and quality of the item by protecting it from contamination by exposure to dirt and deformation.
reduces product loss.
ensures that the item encased remains intact.
,CLAIMS:We claim,
1. A protective jacket for the encasement of ice-cream, wherein said protective jacket (1) comprises:
• a first unit (1A) configured as a housing unit for an ice-cream, and
• a second unit (1B) configured as a lid to form an articulated enclosure for said ice-cream; said units comprising
o a plurality of locking mechanisms (3) configured on the flanges of each unit, to facilitate the removable engagement of both units;
o a plurality of small grooves (6) having a pre-determined height incorporated into the walls of said units to enhance structural integrity and rigidity of the units; and
o at least one integral hinge mechanism (7) positioned along the edges of the respective flanges of said units, configured to connect the two units and enable their movement;
wherein, both the first (1A) and second units (1B) resemble the configuration of the item to be encased inside and feature internal cavities to securely encase the said while maintaining its shape.
2. The protective jacket as claimed in claim 1, wherein said jacket (1) is configured for the encasement of cone ice-cream, having a dome-shaped top section and a conical bottom, and comprises:
a. a first unit (1A) and a second unit (1B), each having peripheral flanges;
b. at least three locking mechanisms (30) configured on a side of the peripheral flanges at of the first and second units at a variable distance, wherein, the locking mechanism on one unit include protrusions adapted to engage with corresponding depressions on the locking mechanisms of the other unit to facilitate a sealed connection around the periphery of the jacket (1); and
c. eight grooves (6) arranged horizontally along both the interior and exterior walls of the first and second units (1a and 1b), wherein,
i. the grooves (6) on the dome-shaped top are embossed outwardly on the exterior wall, configured to prevent deformation of the dome-shaped top, and
ii. the grooves (6) on the conical bottom are embossed inwardly on the interior wall, thereby providing structural reinforcement to the conical bottom.

3. The protective jacket as claimed in claim 1, wherein said jacket (1) is configured for the encasement of ellipsoid-shaped ice-cream and comprises:
a. a first unit (1A) and a second unit (1B), each having peripheral flanges;
b. a locking mechanism (3) incorporating a full perimeter sealing ridge, wherein one unit features a protruding ridge along its periphery and the other unit comprises a complementary receiving ridge along its periphery for removable integration of both the units, resulting in a full perimeter seal;
c. a plurality of grooves (6) that radiate outwards from the central section of the first and second units, wherein said grooves protect the soft ice-cream from contacting the walls of the jacket and enhance the structural integrity of the jacket; and
d. at least one integral hinge mechanism (7) positioned along the edges of their respective flanges,
characterized in that, a 10° slant is provided on a surface adjacent to the locking mechanism to facilitate secure wedging of the first (1A) and second units (1B) together.

4. The protective jacket (1,2) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said jacket (1) for encasement of ice-cream is made up of amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (A-PET).

5. The protective jacket for the encasement of ice-cream as claimed in claim 1, wherein said protective jacket (1) is made through a thermoforming process comprising the following steps:
1. generating a stainless-steel plate, wherein said plate comprises of a cavity to make one half of the packaging;
2. generating a plastic pack through the thermoforming process so that the packaging takes the shape of the outer section of the ball top cone or the shape of a mango, wherein
a. said plastic sheet is heated at a temperature of 117°C to 120°C, where it becomes pliable and moldable, but not melted,
b. said heated plastic is then positioned over the stainless-steel plate mould,
c. said pliable sheet placed over the mold is then shaped by applying a vacuum pressure of about is 5 to 7 bar, to force the plastic sheet to conform to the mold's shape,
d. newly formed plastic part is cooled to solidify and retain its shape;
3. providing small grooves for locking mechanism to ensure that the ice cream stays intact inside the packaging.

Dated this 18th day of August, 2025.


_____________________
(Ms.) GOPI JATIN TRIVEDI
IN/PA- 993
Authorized agent of the applicant
To,
The Controller of Patent
The Patent Office,
At Mumbai.