U.S. patent application number 11/261326 was filed with the patent office on 2006-05-04 for carton with multiple closure formations.
Invention is credited to Dave Nikolai.
Application Number | 20060091190 11/261326 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35788440 |
Filed Date | 2006-05-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060091190 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Nikolai; Dave |
May 4, 2006 |
Carton with multiple closure formations
Abstract
A blank capable of being formed into a carton with multiple
closure formations that includes combinations of closure features
that enable formation of the carton into different enclosed
arrangements. These arrangements include a traditional gable top
formation, a closed-end, flat-top formation with ends tucked in for
stacking, and a handle insertable into an opposing flap, a
closed-end, flat-top formation with ends tucked into end walls and
an exposed handle, and a closed carton with end flaps tucked into
end walls in flat-top formation with handle flap inserted into an
opposing flap for stacking. The carton can also include internal
fold-flap auto-bottom features.
Inventors: |
Nikolai; Dave; (Wausau,
WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WOMBLE CARLYLE SANDRIDGE & RICE, PLLC
ATTN: PATENT DOCKETING 32ND FLOOR
P.O. BOX 7037
ATLANTA
GA
30357-0037
US
|
Family ID: |
35788440 |
Appl. No.: |
11/261326 |
Filed: |
October 28, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60623767 |
Oct 28, 2004 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
229/117.14 ;
229/117.22; 229/140 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 5/46096 20130101;
B65D 5/067 20130101; B65D 5/064 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
229/117.14 ;
229/117.22; 229/140 |
International
Class: |
B65D 5/46 20060101
B65D005/46; B65D 5/08 20060101 B65D005/08 |
Claims
1. A blank for forming a carton with multiple closure formations,
the blank comprising: a first side panel connected to a second side
panel at a first fold line; the second side panel connected to a
third side panel at a second fold line; the third side panel
connected to a fourth side panel at a third fold line; the fourth
side panel connected to an adhesive flap at a fourth fold line; the
first and third side panels having locking means disposed in a
portion thereof; a plurality of top folding panels capable of being
articulated about top folding panel fold lines into a multiplicity
of closure configurations; four end flaps each respectively
attached to one of the side panels.
2. The blank of claim 1, wherein the locking means are capable of
receiving a portion of the top folding panels in at least one
closure configuration.
3. The blank of claim 1, wherein three triangular top folding
panels are disposed adjacent the first side panel and wherein three
triangular top folding panels are disposed adjacent the third side
panel.
4. The blank of claim 3, wherein portions of each of the three
triangular top folding panels disposed adjacent the first side
panel and portion of each of the three triangular top folding
panels disposed adjacent the third side panel are foldable about
second top panel fold lines.
5. The blank of claim 1, wherein a second top folding panel is
disposed adjacent and above the second side panel and a fourth top
folding panel is disposed adjacent and above the fourth side
panel.
6. The blank of claim 5, further including a first handle means
disposed adjacent and above the second top folding panel and a
second handle means disposed adjacent and above the fourth top
folding panel.
7. The blank of claim 6, wherein the first and second handle means
include handholds formed therein.
8. The blank of claim 1, wherein the second top folding panel and
the fourth top folding panel include vent holes formed therein.
9. In combination, a substantially parallelepipedal carton formed
from the blank of claim 1 and at least one article enclosed within
the carton.
10. A carton capable of being formed with multiple closure
formations, the carton comprising: a first side panel connected to
a second side panel at a first fold line; the second side panel
connected to a third side panel at a second fold line; the third
side panel connected to a fourth side panel at a third fold line;
the fourth side panel connected to an adhesive flap at a fourth
fold line; the first and third side panels having locking means
disposed in a portion thereof; a plurality of top folding panels
capable of being articulated about top folding panel fold lines
into a multiplicity of closure configurations; four end flaps each
respectively attached to one of the side panels; wherein the four
end flaps are foldable to create a bottom portion; and wherein at
least a portion of at least one top folding panel can be received
in the locking means in at least one of the multiplicity of closure
configurations.
11. The carton of claim 10, wherein three triangular top folding
panels are disposed adjacent the first side panel and wherein three
triangular top folding panels are disposed adjacent the third side
panel.
12. The carton of claim 1 1, wherein portions of each of the three
triangular top folding panels disposed adjacent the first side
panel and portion of each of the three triangular top folding
panels disposed adjacent the third side panel are foldable about
second top panel fold lines.
13. The carton of claim 10, wherein a second top folding panel is
disposed adjacent and above the second side panel and a fourth top
folding panel is disposed adjacent and above the fourth side
panel.
14. The blank of claim 13, further including a first handle means
disposed adjacent and above the second top folding panel and a
second handle means disposed adjacent and above the fourth top
folding panel.
15. The blank of claim 14, wherein the first and second handle
means include handholds formed therein.
16. The blank of claim 10, wherein the second top folding panel and
the fourth top folding panel include vent holes formed therein.
17. In combination, a substantially parallelepipedal carton formed
from the blank of claim 10 and at least one article enclosed within
the carton.
18. A method of erecting a carton from a blank that includes a
first side panel connected to a second side panel at a first fold
line, the second side panel connected to a third side panel at a
second fold line, the third side panel connected to a fourth side
panel at a third fold line, the fourth side panel connected to an
adhesive flap at a fourth fold line, a plurality of top folding
panels capable of being articulated about top folding panel fold
lines into a multiplicity of closure configurations, four end flaps
each respectively attached to one of the side panels, wherein a
second top folding panel is disposed adjacent and above the second
side panel and a fourth top folding panel is disposed adjacent and
above the fourth side panel, a first handle means disposed adjacent
and above the second top folding panel, and a second handle means
disposed adjacent and above the fourth top folding panel, the
method comprising: folding the four end flaps into a bottom
portion; adhering the adhesive flap to the first side panel; and,
folding the top folding panels inwardly with the first handle means
and the second handle means meeting to form a two part handle
portion.
19. A method of erecting a carton from a blank that includes a
first side panel connected to a second side panel at a first fold
line, the second side panel connected to a third side panel at a
second fold line, the third side panel connected to a fourth side
panel at a third fold line, the fourth side panel connected to an
adhesive flap at a fourth fold line, a plurality of top folding
panels capable of being articulated about top folding panel fold
lines into a multiplicity of closure configurations, four end flaps
each respectively attached to one of the side panels, wherein a
second top folding panel is disposed adjacent and above the second
side panel and a fourth top folding panel is disposed adjacent and
above the fourth side panel, a first handle means disposed adjacent
and above the second top folding panel, and a second handle means
disposed adjacent and above the fourth top folding panel, the
method comprising: folding the four end flaps into a bottom
portion; adhering the adhesive flap to the first side panel; and,
folding the top folding panels inwardly and inserting one of the
first handle means or second handle means into an internal cavity
below the opposing handle flap.
20. A method of erecting a carton from a blank that includes a
first side panel connected to a second side panel at a first fold
line, the second side panel connected to a third side panel at a
second fold line, the third side panel connected to a fourth side
panel at a third fold line, the fourth side panel connected to an
adhesive flap at a fourth fold line, the first and third side
panels having locking means disposed in a central portion thereof,
a plurality of top folding panels capable of being articulated
about top folding panel fold lines into a multiplicity of closure
configurations, four end flaps each respectively attached to one of
the side panels, wherein a second top folding panel is disposed
adjacent and above the second side panel and a fourth top folding
panel is disposed adjacent and above the fourth side panel, a first
handle means disposed adjacent and above the second top folding
panel, and a second handle means disposed adjacent and above the
fourth top folding panel, the method comprising: folding the four
end flaps into a bottom portion; adhering the adhesive flap to the
first side panel; and, folding the top folding panels outwardly and
tucking at least a portion of the top folding panels into the first
locking means.
21. The method of claim 20, further comprising tucking at least a
portion of the top folding panels into the second locking
means.
22. A method of erecting a carton from a blank that includes a
first side panel connected to a second side panel at a first fold
line, the second side panel connected to a third side panel at a
second fold line, the third side panel connected to a fourth side
panel at a third fold line, the fourth side panel connected to an
adhesive flap at a fourth fold line, the first and third side
panels having locking means disposed in a central portion thereof,
a plurality of top folding panels capable of being articulated
about top folding panel fold lines into a multiplicity of closure
configurations, four end flaps each respectively attached to one of
the side panels, wherein a second top folding panel is disposed
adjacent and above the second side panel and a fourth top folding
panel is disposed adjacent and above the fourth side panel, a first
handle means disposed adjacent and above the second top folding
panel, and a second handle means disposed adjacent and above the
fourth top folding panel, the method comprising: folding the four
end flaps into a bottom portion; adhering the adhesive flap to the
first side panel; and, folding the top folding panels outwardly and
inserting one of the first handle means or second handle means into
an internal cavity below the opposing handle flap.
23. A blank for forming a carton with multiple closure formations,
the blank comprising: a plurality of side panels connected at fold
lines; locking means disposed in at least one side panel; a
plurality of top folding panels capable of being articulated about
fold lines into one of a multiplicity of closure configurations; at
least one end flap attached to at least one of the side panels.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/623,767, filed Oct. 28, 2004, the
entire contents of this application being hereby incorporated by
reference as if repeated in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to cartons for
holding and packaging articles. More specifically, the present
invention relates to cartons with multiple closure formations.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Several formations for enclosing cartons have been used in
the past. These formations have been used in various applications,
ranging from gift-wrapping boxes to containers for hazardous waste
products. However, such prior cartons typically include only one
possible folding arrangement. What is needed is a carton that
incorporates multiple combinations of closure arrangements capable
of being used in several applications.
SUMMARY
[0004] The present invention generally relates to a carton with
multiple closure formations, including combinations of closure
features that allow the carton to be formed in different enclosed
arrangements. These arrangements combine, for example, a
traditional gable top formation, a closed-end, flat-top formation
with ends tucked in for stacking and a handle insertable into an
opposing flap, a closed-end, flat-top formation with ends tucked
into end walls and an exposed handle, and closed with end flaps
tucked into end walls in flat-top formation with handle flap and
inserted into opposing flap for stacking. The present carton can
also be combined with internal fold-flap auto-bottom features.
[0005] As discussed herein, the present invention includes carton
blanks that are foldable and/or closable into a number of different
orientations to provide enclosed cartons of varying shapes, sizes,
and orientations. Specifically, in one embodiment, the enclosure
forms a closed-end traditional gable top formation. In another
embodiment, the enclosed carton forms a closed-end, flat-top
formation with ends tucked in for stacking and with a handle
inserted into the internal carton cavity below the opposing handle
flap. In yet another embodiment, the closed carton forms a
closed-end, flat-top carton with end flaps folded outward and
tucked into end walls with the handles exposed for easy carrying.
In still another embodiment, the carton blank forms a closed carton
with end flaps folded outwardly and tucked into end walls in a
flat-top formation with a handle flap inserted into opposing flaps
for easy stacking. These and other embodiments generally can be
configured in any size carton, e.g. 5 pound, 10 pound, or larger
barn-type cartons. The closure formations as detailed above, and
combinations of the features of these closures, can be used to form
a variety of other, similar designs of carton blank arrangements.
The present carton blanks alternatively can include additional
folding orientations and/or to modify the features and/or folding
requirements of each closure formation for the enclosed
cartons.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blank.
[0007] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an alternate embodiment of a blank
from which a carton according to the present information can be
formed.
[0008] FIG. 3 is a plan view of another alternate embodiment of a
blank from which a carton according to the present information can
be formed.
[0009] FIG. 4 is an example of a carton that can be formed from the
blank of FIG. 1.
[0010] FIG. 5 shows the carton of FIG. 4 formed with a traditional
gable top formation with exposed handles.
[0011] FIG. 6 shows the carton of FIG. 4 with a handle flap
inserted into an opposing flap for stacking.
[0012] FIG. 7 shows an enclosed carton with the ends tucked into
the end walls and a handle exposed for carrying.
[0013] FIG. 8 shows the carton of FIG. 7 with the handle flap
folded for stacking.
[0014] FIG. 9 is a plan view of the blank of FIG. 1 with example
dimensions.
[0015] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the blank of FIG. 2 with example
dimensions.
[0016] FIG. 11 is a plan view of the blank of FIG. 3 with example
dimensions.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] For a more complete understanding of the present invention,
reference should be made to the following detailed description and
accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate
corresponding parts throughout the figures. The invention also
includes carton blanks, such as paperboard blanks, which are cut to
a specific shape, and creased, scored, cut, or perforated in
specific areas. The carton blanks define elongate panels between
the creases or fold lines, and include flaps at respective ends of
the panels. The blanks form cartons when fully assembled, so that
when generally all flaps are closed, the assembled cartons have a
series of sidewalls, e.g. four side walls, one or more top panels,
one or more top side panels, and a bottom. For ease of
nomenclature, the lines of folding, perforation, creasing, scoring,
or other separation between panels are referred to herein generally
as fold lines. In several places herein, these fold lines are shown
in the figures as a series of non-continuous cuts interspersed by
nicks. This shorthand is not intended to constitute the composition
of the fold lines or of only fold lines and is intended to
encompass any number or arrangement of spaces, nicks, cuts,
creases, scores, cut scores, solid scores, other inclusions or
spaced areas, or any combinations of these. For example, the fold
lines could include substantially continuous fold lines as desired
(not shown).
[0018] To facilitate understanding and explanation of the blanks
and cartons formed therefrom, the elements and numerals described
herein utilize the terms "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom,"
"front," "back," "north" "south," "east," and "west" to distinguish
portions of the carton and of the blank. These conventions are
included merely for ease of explanation and understanding of the
present description, however, and should not be limiting in any
manner. The descriptions of the panels and the elements as "upper,"
"lower," etc., also can be referred to as "first," "second,"
etc.
[0019] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blank 10 from which a carton can
be formed. The blank 10 includes side panels 12, 16, 20, 24
attached respectively to each other along fold lines 14, 18, 22. A
glue flap or panel 28 is attached to side panel 24 at fold line 26
and is capable of receiving an adhesive during formation of the
carton from the blank 10. The blank 10 includes top folding panels
30, 34,38, 42, 46, 50, 58, 62, 66, 70, 74, 78, which are capable of
being articulated into several positions to form multiple closure
formations.
[0020] Top folding panel 30 is connected to panel 34 by fold line
32, top folding panel 38 is connected to panel 42 by fold line 40,
and top folding panel 46 is connected to panel 50 by fold line 48.
Top folding panels 30 and 34 are respectively connected to top
folding panels 38 and 42 by fold line 36, and top folding panels 42
and 38 are respectively connected to top folding panels 50 and 46
by fold line 44. Top folding panel 46 is connected to top panel 54
by fold line 52. Top panel 54 is connected to top folding panel 58
by fold line 56. Top folding panel 58 is connected to panel 62 by
fold line 60, top folding panel 66 is connected to panel 70 by fold
line 68, and top folding panel 74 is connected to panel 78 by fold
line 76. Fold lines 32, 40, 48, 60, 68, and 76 can be spaced or
located as needed for forming substantially any size or shape top
folding panels, but are shown for purposes of illustration only in
FIG. 1 with fold lines 32, 48, 60 and 70 extending inwardly, within
a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at one
inch, from the top edge of the blank 10 and with fold lines 40 and
68 extending inwardly, within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at two inches, across a mid or
intermediate portion of their respective top folding panels. All
dimensions referred to in the present disclosure are provided for
example purposes only and should not be limiting in any manner.
[0021] Top folding panels 58 and 62 are respectively connected to
top folding panels 66 and 70 by fold line 64, while top folding
panels 70 and 66 are respectively connected to top folding panels
78 and 74 by fold line 72. Top folding panel 74 is connected to top
panel 82 by fold line 80, while top panel 82 in turn is connected
to--glue flap 86 by fold line 84. Glue flap 86 operates similarly
to glue flap 28 and is capable of receiving glue or other adhesive
material during formation of the carton from the blank 10. As
further indicated in FIG. 1, side panels 12, 16, 20, and 24
generally are connected to panels 38, 54, 66, and 82 by fold line
29.
[0022] Handle 88 is connected to top panel 54 by a fold line 89 and
has a handhold or slot 90 formed therein. As shown in FIG. 1, the
handhold 90 generally is formed at line 91, extends into the handle
88, within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such
as at one inch, and can have rounded corners formed with radius
cuts, within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches,
such as at 0.5-inch. Handhold 90 can comprise either a void formed
in the blank 10, or can include a perimeter defined by the fold
line 89, with one or more nicks formed therein to allow the handle
slot to be formed in the carton by folding inward, hinging outward,
or by detaching and removing part of or substantially all of any
flap portion to form an opening. The handhold 90 generally includes
a portion wide enough to receive a user's finger or fingers and is
shown in FIG. 1 with width scores, within a range between
approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 3-inches, at an
upper portion and with a width within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 4-inches, at a lower portion.
[0023] Handle 92 is similarly connected to top panel 82 by a fold
line 93 and has a handhold 94 formed therein. As shown in FIG. 1,
the handhold 94 generally is formed at line 95, extends into the
handle 92, within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to
5-inches, such as at one inch, and can have rounded corners formed
with radius cuts, within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to
5-inches, such as at 0.5-inch. Handhold 94 can comprise either a
void formed in the blank 10, or can include a perimeter defined by
the fold line 93, with one or more nicks formed therein to allow
the handhold 94 to be formed in the carton by folding inward,
hinging outward, or by removing part of, or substantially all of,
any flap portion to form an opening. The handhold 94 generally
includes a portion wide enough to receive a user's finger or
fingers and is shown in FIG. 1 with a width score, within a range
between approximately 0.1-inch to 10-inches, such as at 3-inches,
at an upper portion and a width, within a range between
approximately 0.1-inch to 10-inches, such as at 4-inches, at a
lower portion.
[0024] Locks or slots 114 and 116 are formed in side panels 12 and
20, respectively and provide recessed areas capable of receiving
top folding panel sections of the formed carton for a closure
configuration that receives top folding panel sections in side
panels 12 and 20. Generally, lock 114 includes a formation geometry
capable of receiving portions of top folding panels 34, 42, and 50,
and lock 116 includes a formation geometry capable of receiving
portions of top folding panels 62, 70, and 78, when folded therein.
The locks 114 and 116 are shown in FIG. 1 with a depth within a
range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at
0.5-inch, and a width, within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 1-inch at their lower portions,
although other varying dimensions also can be used. The locks 114,
116 also are shown with a rectangular portion and a bulbous portion
although other designs or configurations also can be used. The
rectangular portions of locks 114 and 116 further are shown in FIG.
1 for purposes of illustration with depths, within a range between
approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at 0.281-inches and
widths, within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches,
such as at 0.75-inches, with variations in such dimensions being
made thereto as needed. The locks 114 and 116 generally are formed
in the middle portions of the panels 12 and 20, respectively, but
can be formed slightly off-center to accommodate the panels 34, 42,
50 and 62, 70, 78, respectively, as constructed. In FIG. 1, the
locks 114 and 116 are spaced from the periphery 8 and the fold line
18, respectively, a distance, within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 2-3 inches. Locks 114 and 116 also
are spaced from the fold lines 14 and 22, respectively, a similar
distance, within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to
5-inches, such as at 2-3 inches, indicated for illustration in FIG.
1, within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such
as at 2.359 inches. The bottom of the bulbous portions of locks 114
and 116 are shown in FIG. 1 a distance within a range between
approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 1-1.3 inches, from
fold line 99.
[0025] The lower or bottom part of the blank 10 generally includes
several bottom panels such as panels 96, 104, 108, and 112. Bottom
panel 96 is connected to side panel 12 by fold line 99, bottom
panel 104 is connected to side panel 16 by fold line 99, bottom
panel 108 is connected to side panel 20 by fold line 99, and bottom
panel 112 is connected to side panel 24 by fold line 99. Although
the bottom of the blank 10 can be formed in any configuration
desired, generally the bottom of the blank 10 will include foldable
features that which are capable of receiving glue or other adhesive
and are capable of providing support to the formed carton. As shown
in FIG. 1, bottom panels 96, 104, and 112 include portions 98, 106,
110, with corresponding surfaces capable of receiving adhesive to
secure the panels into a formed carton.
[0026] The bottom panels 96, 104, 108, and 112 also can be formed
in specific orientations to facilitate ease of constructing a
carton from the blank 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, bottom
panels 96, 104, and 108 extend within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 2.688 inches, from fold line 99,
while bottom panel 112 extends within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 10-inches, such as at 5.066 inches, from fold line 99.
Bottom panels 96 and 104 include end portions that extend at
angles, within a range between approximately 1 to 85-degrees, such
as at 5-degrees (5.degree.), from a plane perpendicular to fold
line 99. Further, bottom panel 104 includes a portion 100 on the
opposite end as the adhesive receiving surface 106. Portion 100
extends from bottom panel 104 as defined by a line 102, which
includes combinations of fold lines, cut lines, and nicks. The line
102 extends at angles, within a range between approximately 1 to
85-degrees, such as at 45-degrees, from fold line 99. Additionally,
bottom panel 108 includes a portion 109 defined by a fold line 107
and bottom panel 112 includes a cutout formed in the adhesive
receiving surface 110 that extends within a range between
approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 1.25-inches, from
the lower end of the panel 112 and that has a curved cutout with a
radius within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches,
such as at 0.798-inches.
[0027] Side panels 12, 16, 20, and 24 further are connected to
bottom panels 96, 104, 108, and 112 by a fold line 99, while the
bottom panels 96, 104, 108, and 112 generally have end portions
that are cutout during manufacture and that allow spaces between
the intersections of the bottom panels at fold line 99. As shown in
FIG. 1, a space within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to
5-inches, such as at 0.028-inches, is defined between bottom panels
96 and 104 and fold line 99, a space within a range between
approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at 0.063-inches, is
defined between bottom panels 104 and 108 and fold line 99, and a
space within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches,
such as at 0.032-inches, is defined between bottom panels 108 and
112 and fold line 99. These features can provide auto bottom
aspects and benefits, such as ease of folding, to the carton and to
the methods of forming the cartons from the blanks.
[0028] Top panels 54 and 82 each include knife cuts 118 that extend
north, south, east, and west and form slots or other opening
capable of venting the contents of the formed carton as desired.
The cuts 118 allow venting of, for instance, heat or moisture, such
as from hot, moist food, without exposing a large amount of the
contents of the carton to the exterior environment. The
configurations of the cuts 118 also can allow receipt of graphics
and the cuts, while provided in the carton, do not have to be
utilized unless desired. As shown in FIG. 1, the cuts 118 typically
have centers that are disposed within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 2-inches, from fold lines 56 and
84 in panels 54 and 82, respectively, and within a range between
approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 1.312-inches, from
fold line 29, with the cuts 118 being within a range between
approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 1-inch, in total
width, within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches,
such as at 0.5-inch, disposed in each direction from the
centers.
[0029] The fold lines, as shown in several places in FIG. 1, can
include any number or arrangement of spaces, nicks, cuts, creases,
scores, cut scoring, solid scoring, spacing, or other inclusions or
spaces, or any combination of these, to aid in the formation of a
carton from the blank 10 and/or to aid in the formation of the
multiple closures defined herein. For example, the nicks shown in
FIG. 1 can be spaced from each other, for example as shown in
bottom panel 104, extending approximately 100% through, for
example, two places along line 102 and being spaced within a range
between approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at
0.142-inches. The nicks can also be formed in any size, such as
within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, for
example, 0.125-inch cuts with 0.125-inch spaces in the bottom
panels. For example, at 0.25-inch cuts with 0.25-inch creases cut
within a range between approximately 10-100%, such as between
70-90%, through, for example, eight places in fold line 29. For
example, at 0.125-inch cuts with 0.063-inch spaces cut, such as
between 70 to 90%, a through cut in a channel at, for example,
eight places in the long fold lines in the top folding panels. For
example, at 0.125-inch cuts with 0.125-inch spaces cut
approximately, such as between 70-90%, through a channel in, for
example, six places in the short fold lines in the top folding
panels. Further, several other cuts/nicks/spaces/creases as shown
in FIG. 1 (including nicks in the locks 114 and 116, such as at
0.031-inch, nicks in the long fold lines in the top folding panels,
such as at 0.132-inch, and numerous others) can be included. These
cuts or other inclusions along the fold lines and otherwise can
vary according to the blank size, according to the formed carton
size, the substrate used to form the carton (e.g. SBS in lieu of
paperboard), or other factors.
[0030] The dimensions of the various elements shown in FIG. 1 are
disclosed for example purposes only. One of skill in the art will
realize that the dimensions shown provide a blank capable of being
formed into a carton to more readily hold specific sized items, and
thus the blank can be formed with different dimensions than those
shown in FIG. 1 without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. Further, FIGS. 2 and 3 provide additional examples of
cartons with different dimensions than those shown and described in
FIG. 1. Specifically, FIG. 2 is a plan view of a blank from which a
medium-sized carton according to the present information can be
formed. FIG. 3 is a plan view of a blank from which a larger-sized
carton according to the present information can be formed. One of
ordinary skill will recognize that the size of the constructed
carton can vary as desired or necessitated and yet include the
multiple closure formations available for the present carton.
[0031] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a blank 210 from which a carton can
be formed. The blank 210 includes side panels 212, 216, 220, 224
attached respectively to each other along fold lines 214, 218,222.
A glue flap or panel 228 is attached to side panel 224 at fold line
226 and is capable of receiving glue or other adhesive during
formation of the carton from the blank 210. The blank 210 includes
top folding panels 230, 234, 238, 242, 246, 250, 258, 262, 266,
270, 274, 278, which are capable of being articulated into several
positions to form multiple closure formations. Side panels 212,
216, 220, and 224 are connected to panels 238, 254, 266, and 282 by
fold line 229.
[0032] Top folding panel 230 is connected to panel 234 by fold line
232, top folding panel 238 is connected to panel 242 by fold line
240, and top folding panel 246 is connected to panel 250 by fold
line 248. Top folding panels 230 and 234 further are respectively
connected to top folding panels 238 and 242 by fold line 236, while
top folding panels 242 and 238 are respectively connected to top
folding panels 250 and 246 by fold line 244, and top folding panel
246 is connected to top panel 254 by fold line 252. Top panel 254
is connected to top folding panel 258 by fold line 256. Top folding
panel 258 is connected to panel 262 by fold line 260, top folding
panel 266 is connected to panel 270 by fold line 268, and top
folding panel 274 is connected to panel 278 by fold line 276. Top
folding panels 258 and 262 are respectively connected to top
folding panels 266 and 270 by fold line 264 and top folding panels
270 and 266 are respectively connected to top folding panels 278
and 274 by fold line 272. Top folding panel 274 is connected to top
panel 282 by fold line 280. Top panel 282 is connected to glue flap
286 by fold line 284. Glue flap 286 operates similarly to glue flap
228 and is capable of receiving glue or other adhesive during
formation of the carton from the blank 210. It will be understood
that the fold lines 232, 240, 248, 260, 268, and 276 can be of any
size or shape in the top folding panels, but are shown for
illustration in FIG. 2 as extending within a range between
approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at one inch, from the
top edge of the blank 210 and at a width across within a range
between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at two
inches.
[0033] A handle 288 is connected to top panel 254 by a fold line
289 and has a handhold or slot 290 formed therein. As shown in FIG.
2, the handhold 290 generally is formed at line 291, extends into
the handle 288 within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to
5-inches, such as at 1-2 inches, and can have rounded corners
formed with radius cuts, within a range between approximately
0.01-inch to 5-inches, inches, such as between 0.5 and 0.75 inch.
Handhold 290 also can comprise either a void formed in the blank
210, or can include a perimeter defined by the fold line 289 and a
nick formed therein to allow the handle slot to be formed in the
carton by folding inward, hinging outward, or by removing any flap
portion entirely to form an opening. The handhold 290 generally
includes a portion wide enough to receive a user's finger or
fingers and is shown in FIG. 2 at a width within a range between
approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 2.937-inch, at an
upper portion and within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to
5-inches, such as at 3.937 inches, at a lower portion.
[0034] Handle 292 is connected to top panel 282 by fold line 293
and has a handhold 294 formed therein. As shown in FIG. 2, the
handhold 294 generally is formed at line 295, extends into the
handle 292 within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to
5-inches, such as at 1-2 inches, and can have rounded corners
formed within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches,
such as between 0.5 and 0.75-inch, radius cuts. Handhold 294 can
comprise either a void formed in the blank 210, or can include a
perimeter defined by the fold line 293 and a nick formed therein to
allow the handhold 294 to be formed in the carton by folding
inward, hinging outward, or by removing any flap portion entirely
to form an opening. The handhold 294 generally includes a portion
wide enough to receive a user's finger or fingers and is shown in
FIG. 2 with a width score within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 2.937-inch, at an upper portion
and a width score within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to
5-inches, such as at 3.937-inches, at a lower portion.
[0035] Locks or slots 314 and 316 are formed in side panels 212 and
220, respectively and provide recessed areas capable of receiving
top folding panel sections of the formed carton for a closure
configuration that receives top folding panel sections in side
panels 212 and 220. Generally, lock 314 includes any formation
geometry capable of receiving portions of top folding panels 234,
242, and 250 and lock 316 includes any formation geometry capable
of receiving portions of top folding panels 262, 270, and 278, when
folded therein. The locks 314 and 316 are shown in FIG. 2 with a
depth within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches,
such as at 0.5-inch, and a width within a range between
approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 1-inch, at their
lower portions. The locks 314, 316 are shown with a rectangular
portion and a bulbous portion. The rectangular portions of locks
314 and 316 are shown in FIG. 2 with depths within a range between
approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at 0.281-inches, and
widths within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches,
such as at 0.75-inch. The locks 314 and 316 generally are formed in
the middle portions of the panels 212 and 220, respectively, but
can be formed slightly off-center to accommodate the panels 234,
242, 250 and 262, 270, 278, respectively, as constructed. In FIG.
2, locks 314 and 316 are spaced from the periphery 208 and fold
line 218, respectively, within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 2.375 inches. Locks 314 and 316
also are spaced from the fold lines 214 and 222, respectively,
within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as
at 2.625-inches. The bottom of the bulbous portions of locks 314
and 316 are shown in FIG. 2 within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 3.938-inches, from fold line
299.
[0036] Side panels 212, 216, 220, and 224 are connected to bottom
panels 296, 304, 308, and 312 by a fold line 299. In addition, the
lower or bottom part of the blank 210 includes bottom panels 296,
304, 308, and 312. Bottom panel 296 is connected to side panel 212
by fold line 299, bottom panel 304 is connected to side panel 216
by fold line 299, bottom panel 308 is connected to side panel 220
by fold line 299, and bottom panel 312 is connected to side panel
224 by fold line 299. Although the bottom of the blank 210 can be
any configuration desired, generally the bottom of the blank 210
can include easily foldable features capable of receiving glue or
other adhesive and capable of providing support to the carton when
formed from the blank 210. Bottom panels 296, 304, and 312 include
portions 298, 306, 310, with corresponding surfaces capable of
receiving adhesive to secure the panels into a formed carton.
Additionally, the bottom panels 296, 304, 308, and 312 can be
formed in specific orientations designed to facilitate ease of
constructing a carton from blank 210. For example, as shown in FIG.
2, bottom panels 296, 304, and 308 can extend within a range
between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at
3.187-inches, from fold line 299, while bottom panel 312 extends
within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 10-inches, such as
at 5.562-inches, from fold line 299. Further, bottom panels 296 and
304 can include end portions that extend at an angle within a range
between approximately 1 to 85-degrees, such as at approximately
5-degrees, from a plane perpendicular to fold line 299.
[0037] As also indicated in FIG. 2, bottom panel 304 typically
includes a portion 300 on the opposite end as the adhesive
receiving surface 306. The portion 300 extends from bottom panel
304 defined by a line 302, which includes combinations of fold
lines, cut lines, and nicks, and extends approximately 45-degrees
from fold line 299. Additionally, bottom panel 308 includes a
portion 309 defined by a fold line 307 and bottom panel 312
includes a cutout formed in the adhesive receiving surface 310 that
extends within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches,
such as at 1.75-inches, from the lower end of the panel 312 and has
a curved cutout. The bottom panels 296, 304, 308, and 312 generally
have end portions that are cutout during manufacture and that
provide spaces between the intersections of the bottom panels at
fold line 299. As shown in FIG. 2, a space within a range between
approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at 0.028-inches, is
defined between bottom panels 296 and 304 and fold line 299, a
space within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches,
such as at 0.063-inches, is defined between bottom panels 304 and
308 and fold line 299, and a space within a range between
approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at 0.032-inches, is
defined between bottom panels 308 and 312 and fold line 299.
[0038] Top panels 254 and 282 each include knife cuts 318 that
extend north, south, east, and west and form slots or other holes
capable of venting the contents of the formed carton as desired.
The cuts 318 allow venting of, for instance, heat or moisture, such
as from hot, moist food without exposing a large amount of the
contents of the carton to the exterior environment. The
configuration of the cuts 318 can allow receipt of graphics, and
while the cuts can be provided in the carton, they do not have to
be utilized for opening/venting the carton unless desired. As shown
in FIG. 2, the knife cuts 318 have centers that are disposed within
a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at
2-inches, from fold lines 256 and 284 in panels 254 and 282,
respectively, and approximately 1.312 inches from fold line 229.
The cuts 318 are within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to
5-inches, such as at 1-inch, in total width, within a range between
approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at approximately
0.5-inches, disposed in each direction from the centers.
[0039] The fold lines, as shown in several places in FIG. 2, can
include any number or arrangement of spaces, nicks, cuts, creases,
scores, cut scores, solid scores, or other inclusions or spaces, or
any combination of these, to aid in the formation of a carton from
the blank 210 and/or to aid in the formation of the multiple
closures defined herein. Additionally, these nicks can be spaced
from each other, for example as shown in bottom panel 304,
extending approximately 100% through, for example, 2 places along
line 302, spaced within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to
5-inches, such as at for example 0.1-0.124-inches apart. The nicks
can also be formed in any size, such as within a range between
approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at, for example,
0.065-inch spaces or 0.125-inch cuts with 0.125-inch spaces in the
bottom panels. For example, at 0.25-inch cuts with 0.25-inch
creases cut within a range between approximately 10 to 100%, such
as between 70-90% through, for example, twelve places in fold line
229. For example, at 0.125-inch cuts with 0.125-inch spaces cut,
such as approximately 70-90%, a through cut in a channel at, for
example, fourteen places in the short fold lines in the top folding
panels. Further, several other cuts/nicks/spaces/creases as shown
in FIG. 2 (including nicks in, for example, two places in the locks
314 and 316, such as at 0.031-inch, nicks in, for example, two
places in the long fold lines in the top folding panels, such as at
0.132-inch and several others) can be included. These cuts or other
inclusions along the fold lines and otherwise can vary according to
the blank size, according to the formed carton size, the substrate
used to form the carton (e.g. SBS in lieu of paperboard), or other
factors.
[0040] FIG. 3 is a plan view of a blank 410 from which a carton can
be formed. The blank 410 includes side panels 412, 416, 420, 424
attached respectively to each other along fold lines 414, 418, 422.
A glue flap or panel 428 is attached to side panel 424 at fold line
426 and is capable of receiving an adhesive during formation of the
carton from the blank 410. The blank 410 includes top folding
panels 430, 434, 438, 442, 446, 450, 458, 462, 466, 470, 474, 478,
which are capable of being articulated into several positions to
form multiple closure formations.
[0041] Top folding panel 430 is connected to panel 434 by fold line
432, top folding panel 438 is connected to panel 442 by fold line
440, and top folding panel 446 is connected to panel 450 by fold
line 448. Top folding panels 430 and 434 are respectively connected
to top folding panels 438 and 442 by fold line 436, and top folding
panels 442 and 438 are respectively connected to top folding panels
450 and 446 by fold line 444. Top folding panel 446 is connected to
top panel 454 by fold line 452. Top panel 454 is connected to top
folding panel 458 by fold line 456. Top folding panel 458 is
connected to panel 462 by fold line 460, top folding panel 466 is
connected to panel 470 by fold line 468, and top folding panel 474
is connected to panel 478 by fold line 476. Side panels 412, 416,
420, and 424 generally are connected to panels 438, 454, 466, and
482 by fold line 429.
[0042] Top folding panels 458 and 462 are respectively connected to
top folding panels 466 and 470 by fold line 464, while top folding
panels 470 and 466 are respectively connected to top folding panels
478 and 474 by fold line 472. Top folding panel 474 is connected to
top panel 482 by fold line 480, while top panel 482 in turn is
connected to glue flap 486 by fold line 484. Glue flap 486 operates
similarly to glue flap 428 and is capable of receiving glue or
other adhesive material during formation of the carton from the
blank 410. Fold lines 432, 440, 448, 460, 468, and 476 can be
spaced or located as need for forming substantially any size or
shape top folding panels, but are shown for purposes of
illustration only in FIG. 3 with fold lines 432, 448, 460, and 470
extending inwardly within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to
5-inches, such as at one inch, from the top edge of the blank 410
and with fold lines 40 and 68 extending within a range between
approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at two inches, across a
mid or intermediate portion of their respective top folding
panels.
[0043] Handle 488 is connected to top panel 454 by fold line 489,
and has a handhold or slot 490 formed therein. As shown in FIG. 3,
the handhold 490 generally is formed at line 491, extends into the
handle 488 approximately one inch, and can have rounded corners
formed with radius cuts within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 0.5-inch. Handhold 490 can
comprise either a void formed in the blank 410, or can include a
perimeter defined by the fold line 489, with one or more nicks
formed therein to allow the handle slot to be formed in the carton
by folding inward, hinging outward, or by removing part of or
substantially all of any flap portion to form an opening. The
handhold 490 generally includes a portion wide enough to receive a
user's finger or fingers and is shown in FIG. 3 with width scores
within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as
at 2.937 inches, at an upper portion and with width scores within a
range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at
3.937-inches, at a lower portion.
[0044] Handle 492 is similarly connected to top panel 482 by fold
line 493, and has a handhold 494 formed therein. As shown in FIG.
3, the handhold 494 generally is formed at line 495, extends into
the handle 492 within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to
5-inches, such as at one inch, and can have rounded corners formed
with radius cuts within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to
5-inches, such as at approximately 0.5-inch. Handhold 494 can
comprise either a void formed in the blank 410, or can include a
perimeter defined by the fold line 493, with one or more nicks
formed therein to allow the handhold 494 to be formed in the carton
by folding inward, hinging outward, or by removing part of or
substantially all of any flap portion to form an opening. The
handhold 494 generally includes a portion wide enough to receive a
user's finger or hands and is shown in FIG. 3 with width scores
within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as
at 2.397-inches, at an upper portion, and width scores within a
range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at
3.937-inches, at a lower portion.
[0045] Locks or slots 514 and 516 are formed in side panels 412 and
420, respectively and provide recessed areas capable of receiving
top folding panel sections of the formed carton for a closure
configuration that receives top folding panel sections in side
panels 412 and 420. Generally, lock 514 includes a formation
geometry capable of receiving portions of top folding panels 434,
442, and 450, and lock 516 includes a formation geometry capable of
receiving portions of top folding panels 462, 470, and 478, when
folded therein. The locks 514 and 516 are shown in FIG. 3 with a
depth within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches,
such as at 0.5-inch, and a width within a range between
approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 1-inch, at their
lower portions, although other varying dimensions also can be used.
The locks 314, 316 also are shown with a rectangular portion and a
bulbous portion although other designs or configurations also can
be used. The rectangular portions of locks 514 and 516 have depths
within a range between approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as
at 0.281 inches, and widths within a range between approximately
0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at 0.75-inch, with variations in
such dimensions being made thereto as needed. The locks 514 and 516
generally are formed in the middle portions of the panels 412 and
420, respectively, but can be formed slightly off-center to
accommodate the panels 434, 442, 450 and 462, 470, 478,
respectively, as constructed. In FIG. 3, the locks 514 and 516 are
spaced from the periphery 408 and fold line 418, respectively,
within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as
between 2-3 inches. The bottom of the bulbous portions of locks 514
and 516 are shown in FIG. 3 within a range between approximately
0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at 2.75-inches, from fold line
499.
[0046] The lower or bottom part of the blank 410 generally includes
several bottom panels such as panels 496, 504, 508, and 512. Bottom
panel 496 is connected to side panel 412 by fold line 499, bottom
panel 504 is connected to side panel 416 by fold line 499, bottom
panel 508 is connected to side panel 420 by fold line 499, and
bottom panel 512 is connected to side panel 424 by fold line 499.
Although the bottom of the blank 410 can be any configuration
desired, generally the bottom of the blank 410 will include easily
foldable features that are capable of receiving glue or other
adhesive and capable of providing support to the carton when formed
from the blank 410. As shown in FIG. 3, bottom panels 496, 504, and
512 include portions 498, 506, 510, with corresponding surfaces
capable of receiving adhesive to secure the panels into a formed
carton. Additionally, the bottom panels 496, 504, 508, and 512 also
can be formed in specific orientations to facilitate ease of
constructing a carton from the blank 410. For example, as shown in
FIG. 3, bottom panels 496, 504, and 508 extend within a range
between approximately 1-inch to 10-inches, such as at 5-inches,
from fold line 499, while bottom panel 512 extends within a range
between approximately 1-inch to 20-inches, such as at 9.188-inches
from fold line 499. Further, bottom panels 496 and 504 include end
portions that extend at 5-degrees, from a plane perpendicular to
fold line 499. Further, bottom panel 504 includes a portion 500 on
the opposite end as the adhesive receiving surface 506. The portion
500 extends from bottom panel 504 defined by a line 502, which
includes combinations of fold lines, cut lines, and nicks. The line
502 extends at an angle within a range between approximately 1 to
85-degrees, such as 45-degrees, from fold line 499. Additionally,
bottom panel 508 includes a portion 509 defined by a fold line 507
and bottom panel 512 includes a cutout formed in the adhesive
receiving surface 510 that extends approximately 1.75-inches from
the lower end of the panel 512 and that has a curved cutout with a
radius within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches,
such as at 1.25-inches.
[0047] Side panels 412, 416, 420, and 424 further are connected to
bottoms panels 496, 504, 508, and 512 by a fold line 99, while the
bottom panels 496, 504, 508, and 512 generally have end portions
that are cutout during manufacture and that provide spaces between
the intersections of the bottom panels at fold line 499. As shown
in FIG. 3, a space within a range between approximately 0.01-inch
to 5-inches, such as at 0.028-inches, is defined between bottom
panels 496 and 504 and fold line 499, a space within a range
between approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at
0.063-inches, is defined between bottom panels 504 and 508 and fold
line 499, and a space within a range between approximately
0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at 0.032-inches, is defined between
bottom panels 508 and 512 and fold line 499.
[0048] Top panels 454 and 482 each include knife cuts 518 that
extend north, south, east, and west and form slots or other holes
capable of venting the contents of the formed carton as desired.
The cuts 518 allow venting of, for instance, heat or moisture, such
as from hot, moist food, without exposing a large amount of the
contents of the carton to the exterior environment. The
configurations of the cuts 518 also can allow receipt of graphics
and do not have to be utilized unless desired. As shown in FIG. 3,
the cuts 518 typically have centers that are disposed within a
range between approximately 0.1-inch to 5-inches, such as at
2.5-inches, from fold lines 456 and 484 in panels 454 and 482,
respectively, and within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to
5-inches, such as at 2-inches, from fold line 429, with the cuts
518 being within a range between approximately 0.1-inch to
5-inches, such as at 1-inch, in total width, within a range between
approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at 0.5-inches,
disposed in each direction from the centers.
[0049] The fold lines, as shown in several places in FIG. 3, can
include any number or arrangement of spaces, nicks, cuts, creases,
scores, cut scoring, solid scoring, spacing, or other inclusions or
spaces, or any combination of these, to aid in the formation of a
carton from the blank 410 and/or to aid in the formation of the
multiple closures defined herein. Additionally, these nicks can be
spaced from each other, for example as shown in bottom panel 504,
extending approximately 100% through, for example, 2 places along
line 502 with spaces within a range between approximately 0.01-inch
to 5-inches, such as at for example, 0.125-inches. The nicks can
also be formed in any size, such as within a range between
approximately 0.01-inch to 5-inches, such as at, for example,
0.125-inch cuts with 0.222-inch spaces in the bottom panels. For
example, at 0.25-inch cuts with 0.25-inch creases cut within a
range between approximately 10 to 100%, such as between 70-90%,
through, for example, 8 places in fold line 429. For example, at
0.125-inch cuts with 0.0125-inch spaces cut, such as between 70 to
90%, a through cut in a channel at, for example, eighteen places in
the long fold lines in the top folding panels. For example, at
0.125-inch cuts with 0.125-inch spaces cut, such as between 70-90%,
through a channel in, for example, 6 places in the short fold lines
in the top folding panels. Further, several other
cuts/nicks/spaces/creases as shown in FIG. 3 (including nicks in
the locks 514 and 516, such as at 0.031-inch, nicks in the long
fold lines in the top folding panels, such as between 0.187 and
1.53-inches, 0.5-inch cut with 0.5-inch creases cut, such as
between 70-90%, through, for example, in four places along line 499
and several others) can be included. These cuts or other inclusions
along the fold lines and otherwise can vary according to the blank
size, according to the formed carton size, the substrate used to
form the carton (e.g. SBS in lieu of paperboard), or other
factors.
[0050] The blanks as shown in FIGS. 1-3 also are shown as including
bleed-area lines for illustration. The actual size of the cartons
is better represented by the interior of the double lined edges,
with the interior forming the actual perimeter of the blanks. The
outside line is the bleed-area limit shown for graphics and
graphical illustrations on the formed carton. Likewise, the
hash-marked areas on the blank indicate generally areas that are
not exposed when the carton is fully formed.
[0051] For purposes of illustration of the use of the present
invention, FIG. 4 shows an example of a carton formed according to
the invention, for example, from the blank of FIG. 1. In
constructing the carton from the blank 10, the bottom panels 96,
104, 108, and 112 are folded upwardly along fold line 99. For
example, panel 109 is folded inwardly and attached by glue or other
adhesive to portion 110 of panel 112, portion 106 tucks under
bottom panel 108 and receives adhesive, portion 100 folds inwardly
and attaches to portion 106 by glue or other adhesive, and panel 96
covers part of portion 110, with a glue or other adhesive attaching
these two panel portions. Once the bottom panels are folded along
line 99, the side panels 12, 16, 20, and 24 and glue flap 28 are
folded along respective fold lines, 14, 18, 22, and 26.
Simultaneously, the top folding panels 46, 58, and 74 and top
panels 54 and 82 are folded along respective fold lines 52, 56, and
80. Glue or other adhesive is provided onto glue flaps 28 and 86
and the carton is formed. During construction of the carton, the
flat blank 10 is fed into the gluer, the bottom portion is folded
upwardly, the diagonals are folded, the glue is applied, and the
scores 14, 18, 22, 26, 52, 56, 80, 84 generally will be folded
over, with glue being applied to glue flaps 28 and 86 to complete
the formation of the carton.
[0052] The resultant formed carton shown in FIG. 4 further can be
folded into several closure configurations. Examples of four such
potential closure configurations are shown in FIGS. 5-8. FIG. 5
shows the carton of FIG. 4 formed with a traditional gable top
formation with exposed handles. FIG. 6 shows the carton of FIG. 4
with a handle flap inserted into an opposing flap for easy
stacking. FIG. 7 shows an enclosed carton with the ends tucked into
the end walls and a handle exposed for easy carrying. FIG. 8 shows
the carton of FIG. 7 with the handle flap folded for easy
stacking.
[0053] To form the closure shown in FIG. 5, the top folding panels
30, 34, 38, 42, 46, 48, 58, 62, 66, 70, 74, and 78 are folded
inwardly, with handles 88 and 92 meeting to form a two part handle
portion. To arrange the carton in an easy stacking arrangement as
shown in FIG. 6 and with the top folding panels folded inwardly,
one section of the handle, 88 or 92, is inserted into an opposing
flap. The handle is inserted into the internal carton cavity below
the opposing handle flap.
[0054] To form the closure shown in FIG. 7, the top folding panels
30, 34, 38, 42, 46, and 48 are folded outwardly and tucked into
lock 114 and top folding panels 58, 62, 66, 70, 74, and 78 are
folded outwardly and tucked into lock 116. Here, the handle
portions 88 and 92 meet to form a two part handle. To arrange the
carton in an easy stacking arrangement as shown in FIG. 8 and with
the top folding panels folded outwardly, one section of the handle,
88 or 92, is inserted into an opposing flap. In FIG. 8, the end
flaps are folded outward and tucked into end walls with the handles
exposed for easy carrying.
[0055] FIG. 9 is a plan view of the blank of FIG. 1 with example
dimensions. FIG. 10 is a plan view of the blank of FIG. 2 with
example dimensions. FIG. 11 is a plan view of the blank of FIG. 3
with example dimensions.
[0056] While the invention has been disclosed in its preferred
forms, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many
modifications, additions, and deletions can be made therein without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and
equivalents as set forth in the following claims.
* * * * *