U.S. patent application number 11/001274 was filed with the patent office on 2006-06-01 for wrap-type carton.
Invention is credited to Andrew W. Clements, David F. Kari.
Application Number | 20060113215 11/001274 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36566382 |
Filed Date | 2006-06-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060113215 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Clements; Andrew W. ; et
al. |
June 1, 2006 |
Wrap-type carton
Abstract
The present invention provides a carton used for packaging and
displaying goods. The carton includes a transparent, plastic blank
which is folded to encapsulate and secure the goods therein. The
carton further includes a cardboard blank which is folded and
wrapped around the plastic blank. The cardboard blank is secured to
itself by a friction fit. The cardboard blank provides a front face
of the carton such that the front face of the carton can be
dedicated to full, stylish graphics. The cardboard blank further
provides a back face of the carton and has an aperture therethrough
such that the back face of the carton provides visibility to the
plastic blank and, thus, the goods encapsulated within the plastic
blank.
Inventors: |
Clements; Andrew W.;
(Chicago, IL) ; Kari; David F.; (Carol Stream,
IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
TREXLER, BUSHNELL, GIANGIORGI,;BLACKSTONE & MARR, LTD.
105 WEST ADAMS STREET
SUITE 3600
CHICAGO
IL
60603
US
|
Family ID: |
36566382 |
Appl. No.: |
11/001274 |
Filed: |
December 1, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/779 ;
206/461 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 77/0413 20130101;
B65D 5/4204 20130101; B65D 73/0092 20130101; B65D 5/18
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/779 ;
206/461 |
International
Class: |
B65D 25/54 20060101
B65D025/54; B65D 73/00 20060101 B65D073/00 |
Claims
1. A carton for packaging goods, said carton comprising: an inner
portion formed of a transparent material, said inner portion being
configured to encapsulate and secure the goods therein; and an
outer portion formed of a non-transparent material, said outer
portion being wrapped generally around said inner portion in order
to secure said inner portion within said outer portion, said outer
portion having at least one aperture therethrough such that said
inner portion, and thus the goods packaged within said inner
portion, are visible through said at least one aperture of said
outer portion.
2. A carton as defined in claim 1, wherein said transparent
material of said inner portion is plastic.
3. A carton as defined in claim 1, wherein said non-transparent
material of said outer portion is designed to have graphics printed
thereon.
4. A carton as defined in claim 3, wherein said non-transparent
material of said outer portion is cardboard.
5. A carton as defined in claim 1, wherein said inner portion and
said outer portion each have at least one aperture provided
therethrough which are in communication with one another, said at
least one apertures of said inner and outer portions being sized
and configured to receive a member therethrough such that said
carton can be hung from the member.
6. A carton as defined in claim 1, wherein said inner and outer
portions are generally formed in the shape of triangular prisms
such that said carton is generally formed in the shape of a
triangular prism.
7. A carton as defined in claim 1, wherein said inner and outer
portions are formed from blanks.
8. A carton as defined in claim 7, wherein said blank from which
said inner portion is formed includes a base panel, a front panel
foldingly attached at a lower end thereof to said base panel, a
back panel foldingly attached at a lower end thereof to said base
panel, and means for securing an upper end of said front panel to
an upper end of said back panel.
9. A carton as defined in claim 8, wherein said back panel of said
inner portion has a portion thereof which bulges outwardly through
said at least one aperture of said outer portion.
10. A carton as defined in claim 8, wherein said securing means
includes at least one protrusion formed at said upper end of said
back panel and at least one pocket formed at said upper end of said
front panel, said at least one protrusion and said at least one
pocket being configured such that said at least one protrusion can
be inserted into said at least one pocket in order to secure same
together by a friction fit.
11. A carton as defined in claim 8, wherein said blank from which
said outer portion is formed includes a generally rectangular base
panel having first, second, third and fourth sides, a front panel
foldingly attached at a lower end thereof to said first side of
said base panel, and a back panel foldingly attached at a lower end
thereof to said third side of said base panel, said at least one
aperture of said outer portion being formed through said back panel
of said outer portion.
12. A carton as defined in claim 11, wherein said blank from which
said outer portion is formed further includes first and second side
panels, said first side panel being foldingly attached at a lower
end thereof to said second side of said base panel such that said
first side panel is configured to generally extend from said front
panel of said inner portion to said back panel of said inner
portion, said second side panel being foldingly attached at a lower
end thereof to said fourth side of said base panel such that said
second side panel is configured to generally extend from said front
panel of said inner portion to said back panel of said inner
portion.
13. A carton as defined in claim 12, wherein said blank from which
said outer portion is formed further includes first and second
front intermediate panels, said first front intermediate panel
being foldingly attached to said front panel and to said first side
panel such that said first front intermediate panel is configured
to be positioned between said front panel of said outer portion and
said front panel of said inner portion, said second front
intermediate panel being foldingly attached to said front panel and
to said second side panel such that said second front intermediate
panel is configured to be positioned between said front panel of
said outer portion and said front panel of said inner portion.
14. A carton as defined in claim 13, wherein said first front
intermediate panel has a fold line which divides said first front
intermediate panel into first and second portions such that when
said first front intermediate panel is folded along said fold line,
said first portion of said first front intermediate panel is
configured to be positioned between said front panel of said inner
portion and said second portion of said first front intermediate
panel, and wherein said second front intermediate panel has a fold
line which divides said second front intermediate panel into first
and second portions such that when said second front intermediate
panel is folded along said fold line, said first portion of said
second front intermediate panel is configured to be positioned
between said front panel of said inner portion and said second
portion of said second front intermediate panel.
15. A carton as defined in claim 14, wherein said blank from which
said outer portion is formed further includes a top panel which is
foldingly attached to said upper end of said back panel such that
said top panel is configured to be positioned between said front
panel of said outer portion and said second portions of said first
and second front intermediate panels.
16. A carton as defined in claim 13, wherein said blank from which
said outer portion is formed further includes first and second back
intermediate panels, said first back intermediate panel being
foldingly attached to said back panel and to said first side panel
such that said first back intermediate panel is configured to be
positioned between said back panel of said outer portion and said
back panel of said inner portion, said second back intermediate
panel being foldingly attached to said back panel and to said
second side panel such that said second back intermediate panel is
configured to be positioned between said back panel of said outer
portion and said back panel of said inner portion.
17. A carton as defined in claim 16, wherein said first back
intermediate panel has a fold line which divides said first back
intermediate panel into first and second portions such that when
said first back intermediate panel is folded, said first portion of
said first back intermediate panel is configured to be positioned
between said back panel of said inner portion and said second
portion of said first back intermediate panel, and wherein said
second back intermediate panel has a fold line which divides said
second back intermediate panel into first and second portions such
that when said second back intermediate panel is folded, said first
portion of said second back intermediate panel is configured to be
positioned between said back panel of said inner portion and said
second portion of said second back intermediate panel.
18. A carton for packaging goods comprising: transparent means for
encapsulating the goods therein; and non-transparent means for
wrapping said transparent encapsulating means therein, said
non-transparent wrapping means having an aperture therethrough such
that at least a portion of said transparent encapsulating means,
and thus the goods, are visible through said aperture of said
non-transparent wrapping means.
19. A carton as defined in claim 18, wherein said transparent
encapsulating means is a blank formed from plastic.
20. A carton as defined in claim 18, wherein said non-transparent
wrapping means is a blank formed from cardboard.
21. A method of packaging goods comprising the steps of: a)
providing a first blank formed from a transparent material, said
first blank including a base panel, a front panel attached at a
lower end thereof to said base panel, and a back panel attached at
a lower end thereof to said base panel; b) folding said front and
back panels of said first blank upwardly relatively to said base
panel; c) inserting the goods between said front, back and base
panels of said first blank; d) securing said front and back panels
together at upper ends thereof in order to secure the goods within
said first blank; e) providing a second blank formed from a
non-transparent material, said second blank including a base panel,
a front panel attached at a lower end thereof to said base panel of
said second blank, a back panel attached at a lower end thereof to
said base panel of said second blank, a top panel attached to an
upper end of said back panel, said back panel having an aperture
provided therethrough; f) positioning said first blank on said
second blank such that said base panel of said first blank is
positioned on said base panel of said second blank; g) folding said
front and back panels of said second blank upwardly relative to
said base panel of said second blank such that said front panel of
said second blank faces said front panel of said first blank and
such that said back panel of said second blank faces said back
panel of said first blank, said aperture provided through said back
panel of said second blank providing visibility to the goods
secured within said first blank; and h) folding said top panel
downwardly relative to said back panel of said second blank such
that said top panel is positioned between said front panel of said
first blank and said front panel of said second blank.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a carton for packaging
goods.
[0002] There are many different types of cartons which are used for
packaging goods to be sold in a store. In the case of the consumer
electronics accessories market, for example, these cartons are used
to package and display varying electronics accessories, for
example, wall mounting brackets for regular, flat screen and
projection televisions. Currently, in this market, the packaging of
choice is a clear plastic molded tray or enclosure of sorts that
contains one or more of the wall mounting brackets. Typically, in
order to advertise the contents of the packaging, a flat pad or
card is placed inside the plastic tray for graphics and print. Such
a packaging, though, does not provide for the manufacturer of the
packaged goods to provide substantial information thereon or allow
the manufacturer to package the goods in a carton which will catch
the eye of the consumer.
[0003] Also, the clear plastic tray or enclosure currently used to
package the goods are typically very difficult for the consumer to
open once the consumer has purchased the goods, such that the
consumer will generally have to use a pair or scissors or a knife
in order to open the clear plastic tray or enclosure in order to
gain access to the goods therein.
[0004] Thus, there is a need for a carton for packaging goods which
overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art cartons used for
packaging goods. The present invention provides such a new and
novel design for a carton for packaging goods.
OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] A primary object of an embodiment of the present invention
is to provide a carton for packaging goods which has cardboard
wrapped around a clear plastic portion such that one whole side of
the carton is cardboard, dedicated to full, stylish graphics, and
on the other side of the carton the plastic portion protrudes out
of a designated area of the cardboard to display the goods within
the plastic portion.
[0006] An object of an embodiment of the present invention is to
provide a carton for packaging goods which is configured to provide
substantial information regarding the packaged goods on an outer
cardboard portion thereof.
[0007] Another object of an embodiment of the present invention is
to provide a carton for packaging goods which is configured to
protect the goods therein.
[0008] Still another object of an embodiment of the present
invention is to provide a carton for packaging goods which puts the
packaged goods on display such that a consumer can readily view the
packaged goods.
[0009] Another object of an embodiment of the present invention is
to provide a carton for packaging goods which can be readily opened
after purchase without the use of some sort of tool.
[0010] Yet another object of an embodiment of the present invention
is to provide a carton for packaging goods which is configured to
be hung from a hang hook in a store.
[0011] Briefly, and in accordance with the foregoing, the present
invention provides a carton used for packaging and displaying
goods. The carton includes a transparent, plastic blank which is
folded to encapsulate and secure the goods therein. The carton
further includes a cardboard blank which is folded and wrapped
around the plastic blank. The cardboard blank is secured to itself
by a friction fit. The cardboard blank provides a front face of the
carton such that the front face of the carton can be dedicated to
full, stylish graphics. The cardboard blank further provides a back
face of the carton and has an aperture therethrough such that the
back face of the carton provides visibility to the plastic blank
and, thus, the goods encapsulated within the plastic blank.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The organization and manner of the structure and operation
of the invention, together with further objects and advantages
thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following
description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings
wherein like reference numerals identify like elements in
which:
[0013] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of an inner surface of a cardboard
blank used in forming the carton of the invention;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of an outer surface of the
cardboard blank used in forming the carton of the invention;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an outer surface of a plastic
blank used in forming the carton of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of an inner surface of the plastic
blank used in forming the carton of the invention;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the plastic blank used in
forming the carton of the invention being folded;
[0018] FIGS. 6-8 are perspective views of the cardboard blank being
folded or wrapped around the already folded plastic blank;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the formed carton of the
invention having goods packaged therein and visible through an
aperture in the cardboard blank which is wrapped around the plastic
blank; and
[0020] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the formed carton of
the invention having the goods packaged therein taken along line
10-10 of FIG. 9.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENT
[0021] While this invention may be susceptible to embodiment in
different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will be
described herein in detail, a specific embodiment with the
understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an
exemplification of the principles of the invention, and is not
intended to limit the invention to that as illustrated.
[0022] A carton 100 of the present invention is formed from a blank
102, which is typically formed from a cardboard material, and a
blank 104, which is typically formed from a transparent plastic
material and molded into shape.
[0023] The blank 102 is illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. Blank 102 has
an outer surface 106, as best illustrated in FIG. 2, and an inner
surface 108, as best illustrated in FIG. 1. The blank 102 has a
base panel 110 which is generally rectangular in configuration.
Base panel 110 is bounded at a front side thereof by fold line 112.
Base panel 110 is bounded at a back side thereof by fold line 114.
Base panel 110 is bounded at a first side thereof by fold line 116.
Base panel 110 is bounded at a second side thereof by fold line
118. Fold line 112 and fold line 114 are positioned opposite one
another, and are generally parallel to one another, and fold line
116 and fold line 118 are positioned opposite one another, and are
generally parallel to one another and generally perpendicular to
fold lines 112, 114. Thus, the connection of fold lines 112, 116
forms a first corner 120 of the base panel 110; the connection of
fold lines 114, 116 forms a second corner 122 of the base panel
110; the connection of fold lines 114, 118 forms a third corner 124
of the base panel 110; and the connection of fold lines 112, 118
forms a fourth corner 126 of the base panel 110.
[0024] The blank 102 includes a front panel 128 which is generally
trapezoidal in configuration. Front panel 128 is bounded at a
bottom side thereof by fold line 112. Front panel 128 is bounded at
a top side thereof by edge 130. Front panel 128 is bounded at a
first side thereof by fold line 132. Front panel 128 is bounded at
a second side thereof by fold line 134. Fold line 112 and edge 130
are positioned opposite one another, and are positioned generally
parallel to one another. Fold line 132 and fold line 134 are
positioned opposite one another, but are preferably not positioned
parallel to one another. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, fold line
132 extends angularly downwardly from fold line 112 at the corner
120 to the edge 130, and fold line 134 extends upwardly from fold
line 112 at the corner 126 to the edge 130. Thus, fold line 112
extends for a further distance than does edge 130.
[0025] The front panel 128 has an aperture 136 cut therethrough
proximate to the edge 130 and generally equidistant between the
fold lines 132, 134. The aperture 136 is generally configured to be
of a size and shape such that a member (not shown) can extend
therethrough such that the carton 100 can hang from the member. The
aperture 136 is generally referred to in the industry as a hang
hole. The purpose for the aperture 136 will be discussed further
hereinbelow.
[0026] The blank 102 includes a back panel 138 which is generally
trapezoidal in configuration. Back panel 138 is bounded at a bottom
side thereof by fold line 114. Back panel 138 is bounded at a top
side thereof by fold line 140. Back panel 138 is bounded at a first
side thereof by fold line 142. Back panel 138 is bounded at a
second side thereof by fold line 144. Fold line 114 and fold line
140 are positioned opposite one another, and a positioned generally
parallel to one another. Fold line 142 and fold line 144 are
positioned opposite one another, but are preferably not positioned
parallel to one another. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, fold line
142 extends angularly downwardly from fold line 114 at the corner
122 to fold line 140, and fold line 144 extends angularly upwardly
from fold line 114 at the corner 124 to fold line 140. Thus, fold
line 114 extends for a further distance than does fold line
140.
[0027] The back panel 138 has an aperture 146 cut therethrough
proximate to fold line 140 and generally equidistant between the
fold lines 142, 144. The aperture 146 is generally configured to be
of a size and shape such that a member (not shown) can extend
therethrough such that the carton 100 can hang from the member. The
aperture 146 is sized and shaped generally identically to the
aperture 136 on the front panel 128. The aperture 146 is generally
referred to in the industry as a hang hole. The purpose for the
aperture 146 will be discussed further hereinbelow.
[0028] The back panel 138 also has an aperture 148 cut therethrough
between aperture 146 and fold line 114. The aperture 148 is
generally trapezoidal in configuration, but with the corners being
generally rounded or curved rather than straight. The back panel
138, though, has a tab portion 150 which extends generally into the
aperture 148 such that the tab portion 150 defines first and second
portions 148a, 148b which extend partially around the tab portion
150. The purpose for the aperture 148 will be discussed further
hereinbelow.
[0029] The blank 102 includes a top panel 152 which is generally
trapezoidal in configuration. Top panel 152 is bounded at a bottom
side thereof by fold line 140. Top panel 152 is bounded at a first
side thereof by edge 154, which is planar with fold line 142. Top
panel 152 is bounded at a second side thereof by edge 156, which is
planar with fold line 144. Top panel 152 is bounded at a top side
thereof by edge 158. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, edge 158 has
a first portion 158a, a second portion 158b, and a third portion
158c. First portion 158a of edge 158 curves outwardly and
downwardly from edge 154 to third portion 158c of edge 158. Second
portion 158b of edge 158 curves outwardly and upwardly from edge
156 to third portion 158c of edge 158. The third portion 158c
extends between the first and second portions 158a, 158b of the
edge 158 and is generally parallel to fold line 140. A fold line
160 extends between the connection of edge 154 and the first
portion 158a and the connection of edge 156 and the second portion
158b, such that fold line 160 is positioned between, and is
generally parallel to, the third portion 158c of the edge 158 and
the fold line 160.
[0030] The top panel 152 has an aperture 162 cut therethrough along
fold line 160 and generally equidistant between the edges 154, 156.
The aperture 162 is generally configured to be of a size and shape
such that a member (not shown) can extend therethrough such that
the carton 100 can hang from the member. The aperture 162 is sized
and shaped generally identically to the apertures 136, 146 on the
front panel 128 and the back panel 138, respectively. The aperture
162 is generally referred to in the industry as a hang hole. The
purpose for the aperture 162 will be discussed further
hereinbelow.
[0031] The blank 102 includes a first side panel 164 which is
generally trapezoidal in configuration. First side panel 164 is
bounded at a bottom side thereof by fold line 116. First side panel
164 is bounded at a top side thereof by edge 166. First side panel
164 is bounded at a first side thereof by fold line 168. First side
panel 164 is bounded at a second side thereof by fold line 170.
Fold line 116 and edge 166 are positioned opposite one another, and
are positioned generally parallel to one another. Fold line 168 and
fold line 170 are positioned opposite one another, but are
preferably not positioned parallel to one another. As illustrated
in FIGS. 1 and 2, fold line 168 extends angularly upwardly and
inwardly from fold line 116 at corner 120 to the edge 166, and fold
line 170 extends angularly upwardly and inwardly from fold line 116
at the corner 122 to the edge 166. Thus, fold line 116 extends for
a further distance than does edge 166.
[0032] The blank 102 includes a second side panel 172 which is
generally trapezoidal in configuration, and which is generally
identical to first side panel 164. Second side panel 172 is bounded
at a bottom side thereof by fold line 118. Second side panel 172 is
bounded at a top side thereof by edge 174. Second side panel 172 is
bounded at a first side thereof by fold line 176. Second side panel
172 is bounded at a second side thereof by fold line 178. Fold line
118 and edge 174 are positioned opposite one another, and are
positioned generally parallel to one another. Fold line 176 and
fold line 178 are positioned opposite one another, but are
preferably not positioned parallel to one another. As illustrated
in FIGS. 1 and 2, fold line 176 extends angularly downwardly and
inwardly from fold line 118 at corner 126 to the edge 174, and fold
line 178 extends downwardly and inwardly from fold line 118 at the
corner 124 to the edge 174. Thus, fold line 118 extends for a
further distance than does edge 174.
[0033] The blank 102 includes a first front intermediate panel 180.
The first front intermediate panel 180 is bounded by the fold line
132, the fold line 168, and edges 182, 184, 186. Edge 182 extends
from edge 166 and is planar with edge 166. Edge 184 extends from
edge 130 and is planar with edge 130. Edge 186 connects edges 182,
184 together with edge 186 extending angularly downwardly and
outwardly from edge 182 to edge 184. The first front intermediate
panel 180 also has a fold line 188 which extends angularly upwardly
and outwardly from the corner 120 to the connection of edges 182,
186. The fold line 188 separates the first front intermediate panel
180 into a first portion 180a and a second portion 180b. The first
portion 180a is bounded by fold line 168, edge 182 and the fold
line 188. The second portion 180b is bounded by fold line 132, fold
line 188, edge 186 and edge 184.
[0034] The blank 102 includes a second front intermediate panel
190. The second front intermediate panel 190 is bounded by the fold
line 134, the fold line 176, and edges 192, 194, 196. Edge 192
extends from edge 174 and is planar with edge 174. Edge 194 extends
from edge 130 and is planar with edge 130. Edge 196 connects edges
192, 194 together with edge 196 extending angularly upwardly and
outwardly from edge 192 to edge 194. The second front intermediate
panel 190 also has a fold line 198 which extends angularly upwardly
and outwardly from the corner 126 to the connection of edges 192,
196. The fold line 198 separates the second front intermediate
panel 190 into a first portion 190a and a second portion 190b. The
first portion 190a is bounded by fold line 176, edge 192 and the
fold line 198. The second portion 190b is bounded by fold line 134,
fold line 198, edge 196 and edge 194.
[0035] The blank 102 includes a first back intermediate panel 200.
The first back intermediate panel 200 is bounded by the fold line
142, the fold line 170, and edges 202, 204, 206, 208. Edge 202
extends from edge 166 and is planar with edge 166, and further is
generally parallel to fold line 142. Edge 204 extends from fold
line 140 and is planar with fold line 140. Edge 206 extends
angularly upwardly and inwardly from edge 204 to edge 208. Edge 208
connects edge 202 and edge 206 together. Edge 208 has a first
portion 208a, a second portion 208b, a third portion 208c, a fourth
portion 208d, and a fifth portion 208e. The first portion 208a
extends angularly downwardly and outwardly from edge 202 to the
second portion 208b, such that the first portion 208a is generally
parallel to the fold line 170. The second portion 208b curves
downwardly and outwardly from the first portion 208a to the third
portion 208c. The third portion 208c extends angularly downwardly
and outwardly from the second portion 208b to the fourth portion
208c, such that the third portion 208c is generally parallel to the
fold line 142. The fourth portion 208d curves upwardly and
outwardly from the third portion 208c to the fifth portion 208e.
The fifth portion 208e extend upwardly from the fourth portion 208d
to the edge 206, such that the fifth portion 208e is generally
parallel to the edge 204.
[0036] The first back intermediate panel 200 also has a fold line
210 which extends angularly upwardly and outwardly from the corner
122 to the second portion 208b of the edge 208. The fold line 210
separates the first back intermediate panel 200 into a first
portion 200a and a second portion 200b. The first portion 200a is
bounded by fold line 170, edge 202, the first and second portions
208a, 208b of the edge 208, and the fold line 210. The second
portion 200b is bounded by fold line 142, fold line 210, the
second, third, fourth and fifth portions 208b, 208c, 208d, 208e of
the edge 208, the edge 206 and the edge 204.
[0037] The blank 102 includes a second back intermediate panel 212.
The second back intermediate panel 212 is bounded by the fold line
144, the fold line 178, and edges 214, 216, 218, 220. Edge 214
extends from edge 174 and is planar with edge 174, and further is
generally parallel to fold line 144. Edge 216 extends from fold
line 140 and is planar with fold line 140. Edge 218 extends
angularly downwardly and inwardly from edge 216 to edge 220. Edge
220 connects edge 214 and edge 218 together. Edge 220 has a first
portion 220a, a second portion 220b, a third portion 220c, a fourth
portion 220d, and a fifth portion 220e. The first portion 220a
extends angularly upwardly and outwardly from edge 214 to the
second portion 220b, such that the first portion 220a is generally
parallel to the fold line 178. The second portion 220b curves
upwardly and outwardly from the first portion 220a to the third
portion 220c. The third portion 220c extends angularly upwardly and
outwardly from the second portion 220b to the fourth portion 220c,
such that the third portion 220c is generally parallel to the fold
line 144. The fourth portion 220d curves downwardly and outwardly
from the third portion 220c to the fifth portion 220e. The fifth
portion 220e extend downwardly from the fourth portion 220d to the
edge 218, such that the fifth portion 220e is generally parallel to
the edge 216.
[0038] The second back intermediate panel 212 also has a fold line
222 which extends angularly downwardly and outwardly from the
corner 124 to the second portion 220b of the edge 220. The fold
line 222 separates the second back intermediate panel 212 into a
first portion 212a and a second portion 212b. The first portion
212a is bounded by fold line 178, edge 214, the first and second
portions 220a, 220b of the edge 220, and the fold line 222. The
second portion 212b is bounded by fold line 144, fold line 222, the
second, third, fourth and fifth portions 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e of
the edge 220, the edge 218 and the edge 216.
[0039] Attention is now directed to FIGS. 3 and 4 which illustrate
the blank 104. Blank 104 has an outer surface 230, as best
illustrated in FIG. 3, and an inner surface 232, as best
illustrated in FIG. 4. The blank 104 has a base panel 234 which is
generally rectangular in configuration. Base panel 234 is bounded
at a front side thereof by a folding panel 236. Base panel 234 is
bounded at a back side thereof by a folding panel 238. Base panel
234 is bounded at a first side thereof by edge 240. Base panel 234
is bounded at a second side thereof by edge 242. Folding panel 236
and folding panel 238 are positioned opposite one another, and are
generally parallel to one another, and edge 240 and edge 242 are
positioned opposite one another, and are generally parallel to one
another and generally perpendicular to folding panels 236, 238.
Thus, the connection of folding panel 236 and edge 240 forms a
first corner 244 of the base panel 234; the connection of folding
panel 236 and edge 242 forms a second corner 246 of the base panel
234; the connection of folding panel 238 and edge 242 forms a third
corner 248 of the base panel 234; and the connection of folding
panel 238 and edge 240 forms a fourth corner 250 of the base panel
234. The folding panel 236 extends along the length of the base
panel 234 from edge 240 to edge 242. The folding panel 238 extends
along the length of the base panel 234 from edge 240 to edge
242.
[0040] The base panel 234 has a first raised portion 252 proximate
to edge 240 which extends between the folding panels 236, 238. The
first raised portion 252 includes a first angled surface 254, which
is a part of the inner surface 232, which extends angularly
upwardly from the folding panel 236 toward the folding panel 238.
The first raised portion 252 includes a second angled surface 256,
which is part of the inner surface 232, which extends angularly
upwardly from the folding panel 238 toward the folding panel 236.
The first and second angled surfaces 254, 256 meet at 258 such that
the first raised portion 252 appears to be generally triangular or
pyramidal.
[0041] The base panel 234 has a second raised portion 260 proximate
to edge 242 which extends between the folding panels 236, 238. The
second raised portion 260 includes a first angled surface 262,
which is a part of the inner surface 232, which extends angularly
upwardly from the folding panel 236 toward the folding panel 238.
The second raised portion 260 includes a second angled surface 264,
which is part of the inner surface 232, which extends angularly
upwardly from the folding panel 238 toward the folding panel 236.
The first and second angled surfaces 262, 264 meet at 266 such that
the second raised portion 260 appears to be generally triangular or
pyramidal. The first and second raised portions 252, 260 are
generally identical to one another and are positioned apart from
one another on the base panel 234.
[0042] The blank 104 includes a front panel 268 which is generally
trapezoidal in configuration. Front panel 268 is bounded at a
bottom side thereof by the folding panel 236. Front panel 268 is
bounded at a top side thereof by edge 270. Front panel 268 is
bounded at a first side thereof by edge 272. Front panel 268 is
bounded at a second side thereof by edge 274. Folding panel 236 and
edge 270 are positioned opposite one another, and are positioned
generally parallel to one another. Edges 272, 274 are positioned
opposite one another, but are preferably not positioned parallel to
one another. As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, edge 272 extends
angularly upwardly and outwardly from folding panel 236 proximate
to corner 244 to the edge 270, and edge 274 extends angularly
downwardly and outwardly from folding panel 236 proximate to corner
246 to the edge 270. Thus, folding panel 236 extends for a further
distance than does edge 270. The connection of edges 270, 272 is
preferably rounded and the connection of edges 270, 274 is
preferably rounded.
[0043] The front panel 268 includes a portion 276 which is raised
off of the inner surface 232 thereof, and which is generally
U-shaped such that the raised portion 276 has a base 278 and a pair
of opposite opposing arms 280, 282. The base 278 is positioned
proximate to, and extends along, the edge 270. The arm 280 is
positioned proximate to, and generally extends along, the edge 272.
The arm 282 is positioned proximate to, and generally extends
along, the edge 274. The base 278 defines a first raised surface
284, which is part of the inner surface 232, which extends
angularly upwardly from proximate the edge 270 toward the folding
panel 236. The first raised surface 284 continues to extend along
the arms 280, 282 and, for reference purposes, is illustrated as
surfaces 284a, 284b of arms 280, 282 respectively. The first raised
surfaces 284a, 284b extend to 286a, 286b, respectively. From 286a,
286b, the arms 280, 282 extend downwardly toward the folding panel
236 and, thus, define second raised surfaces 288a, 288b of arms
280, 282 respectively.
[0044] The inner surface 232 of the front panel 268 defines a
recessed portion 290 which is generally bounded by the base 278,
the arms 280, 282, and the folding panel 236, such that it appears
that the recessed portion 290 protrudes from the outer surface 230
of the front panel 268.
[0045] The base 278 defines a recessed portion 292 proximate to the
edge 270 generally equidistant between edges 272, 274. Within the
recessed portion 292, an aperture 294 is cut therethrough. The
aperture 294 is generally configured to be of a size and shape such
that a member (not shown) can extend therethrough such that the
carton 100 can hang from the member. The aperture 294 is generally
referred to in the industry as a hang hole. The purpose for the
aperture 294 will be discussed further hereinbelow.
[0046] The base 278 further defines a pocket 296 therein between
the recessed portion 294 and the arm 280. The pocket 296 is
generally square shaped and is recessed from the inner surface 232
such that the pocket 296 appears to protrude from the outer surface
230 of the blank 104.
[0047] The base 278 further defines a pocket 298 therein between
the recessed portion 294 and the arm 282. The pocket 298 is
generally square shaped and is recessed from the inner surface 232
such that the pocket 298 appears to protrude from the outer surface
230 of the blank 104.
[0048] The blank 104 includes a back panel 300 which is generally
trapezoidal in configuration. Back panel 300 is bounded at a bottom
side thereof by the folding panel 238. Back panel 300 is bounded at
a top side thereof by edge 302. Back panel 300 is bounded at a
first side thereof by edge 304. Back panel 300 is bounded at a
second side thereof by edge 306. Folding panel 238 and edge 302 are
positioned opposite one another, and are positioned generally
parallel to one another. Edges 304, 306 are positioned opposite one
another, but are preferably not positioned parallel to one another.
As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, edge 304 extends angularly
upwardly and outwardly from folding panel 238 proximate to corner
250 to the edge 302, and edge 306 extends angularly downwardly and
outwardly from folding panel 238 proximate to corner 248 to the
edge 302. Thus, folding panel 238 extends for a further distance
than does edge 302. The connection of edges 302, 304 is preferably
rounded and the connection of edges 302, 306 is preferably
rounded.
[0049] The back panel 300 includes a portion 308 which is raised
off of the inner surface 232 thereof, and which is generally
U-shaped such that the raised portion 308 has a base 310 and a pair
of opposite opposing arms 312, 314. The base 310 is positioned
proximate to, and extends along, the edge 302. The arm 312 is
positioned proximate to, and generally extends along, the edge 304.
The arm 314 is positioned proximate to, and generally extends
along, the edge 306. The base 310 defines a first raised surface
316, which is part of the inner surface 232, which extends
angularly upwardly from proximate the edge 302 toward the folding
panel 238. The first raised surface 316 continues to extend along
the arms 312, 314 and, for reference purposes, is illustrated as
surfaces 316a, 316b of arms 312, 314 respectively. The first raised
surfaces 316a, 316b extend to 318a, 318b, respectively. From 316a,
316b, the arms 312, 314 extend downwardly toward the folding panel
238 and, thus, define second raised surfaces 320a, 320b of arms
312, 314 respectively.
[0050] The inner surface 232 of the back panel 300 defines a first
recessed portion 322 which is generally bounded by the base 310,
the arms 312, 314, and the folding panel 238, such that it appears
that the first recessed portion 322 protrudes from the outer
surface 230 of the back panel 300.
[0051] The inner surface 232 of the back panel 300 further defines
a second recessed portion 324 which is provided within the
boundaries of the first recessed portion 322, such that it appears
that the second recessed portion 324 protrudes and/or bulges from
the outer surface 230 of the back panel 300.
[0052] The base 310 defines a recessed portion 326 proximate to the
edge 302 generally equidistant between edges 304, 306. Within the
recessed portion 326, an aperture 328 is cut therethrough. The
aperture 328 is generally configured to be of a size and shape such
that a member (not shown) can extend therethrough such that the
carton 100 can hang from the member. The aperture 328 is generally
referred to in the industry as a hang hole. The purpose for the
aperture 328 will be discussed further hereinbelow.
[0053] The base 310 further defines a protrusion 330 therein
between the recessed portion 326 and the arm 312. The protrusion
330 is generally circle shaped and protrudes from the inner surface
232 such that the protrusion 330 appears to be recessed from the
outer surface 230 of the blank 104.
[0054] The base 310 further defines a protrusion 332 therein
between the recessed portion 326 and the arm 314. The protrusion
332 is generally circle shaped and protrudes from the inner surface
232 such that the protrusion 332 appears to be recessed from the
outer surface 230 of the blank 104.
[0055] Assembly of the blanks 102, 104 to form the carton 100 will
now be discussed with reference to FIGS. 5-10. Assembly of the
carton 100 begins with the folding of the blank 104. Blank 104 is
folded as illustrated in FIG. 5 by folding the front panel 268
upwardly relative to the base panel 234 along the folding panel
236. Similarly, the back panel 300 is folded upwardly relative to
the base panel 234 along the folding panel 238. Thus, the front and
back panels 268, 300 are folded upwardly toward one another.
[0056] By folding the front panel 268 upwardly, the second raised
surface 288a of arm 280 faces, and possibly contacts, the first
angled surface 254 of the first raised portion 252 of the base
panel 234, and the second raised surface 288b of arm 282 faces, and
possibly contacts, the first angled surface 262 of the second
raised portion 260 of the base panel 234. By folding the back panel
300 upwardly, the second raised surface 320a of arm 318 faces, and
possibly contacts, the second angled surface 256 of the first
raised portion 252 of the base panel 234, and the second raised
surface 320b of arm 320 faces, and possibly contacts, the second
angled surface 264 of the second raised portion 260 of the base
panel 234.
[0057] The folding of the front and back panels 268, 300 also
causes the first raised surface 284a of the arm 280 of the front
panel 268 to face, and possibly contact, the first raised surface
316a of the arm 312 of the back panel 300. Likewise, the folding of
the front and back panels 268, 300 also causes the first raised
surface 284b of the arm 282 of the front panel 268 to face, and
possibly contact, the first raised surface 316b of the arm 314 of
the back panel 300.
[0058] The folding of the front and back panels 268, 300 also cause
the base 278 of the front panel 268 to face, and possibly contact,
the base 310 of the back panel 300. The apertures 284, 328 of the
front and back panels 268, 300, respectively, also face one
another. The protrusion 330 of the back panel 300 is positioned
next to the pocket 296 of the front panel 268 and the protrusion
332 of the back panel 300 is positioned next to the pocket 298 of
the front panel 268.
[0059] When the folding of the front and back panels 268, 300 as
described hereinabove is performed, the recessed portion 290 of the
front panel 268 is placed into communication with the recessed
portions 322, 324 of the back panel 300 in order to provide a
chamber 340 within the blank 104.
[0060] Prior to the folding of the front and back panels 268, 300,
a member 342 (illustrated in FIGS. 6-10) is positioned within one
of the recessed portions 290, 322, 324 of the front and back panels
268, 300 such that upon folding of the front and back panels 268,
300, the member 342 will be encapsulated, secured and protected
within the chamber 340 and, because the blank 104 is formed of a
transparent plastic material, the member 342 is visible within the
chamber 340.
[0061] Once the member 342 is encapsulated within the chamber 340,
the blank 104 can be locked together by forcing the protrusion 330
into the pocket 296 and by forcing the protrusion 332 into the
pocket 298. By forcing the protrusions 330, 332 into the pockets
296, 298, respectively, the protrusions 330, 332 are secured or
locked into the pockets 296, 298 by a friction fit such that the
blank 104 will be held in the locked or secured position, as
illustrated in FIG. 6, for example, until a counter force is
applied to the front and back panels 268, 300 in order to overcome
the friction fit of the protrusions 330, 332 within the pockets
296, 298 and, thus, providing access to the member 342 within the
chamber 340.
[0062] After the protrusions 330, 332 of the back panel 300 are
friction fitted into the pockets 296, 298 of the front panel 268,
the folded blank 104 can then be encapsulated and secured within
the blank 102. The folded blank 104 is then positioned on the blank
102 such that the outer surface 230 of the base panel 234 of the
blank 104 is positioned against the inner surface 108 of the base
panel 110 of the blank 110, as illustrated in FIG. 6, and such that
the folding panel 236 of the blank 104 is positioned along the
folding line 112 of the blank 102, the folding panel 238 of the
blank 104 is positioned along the folding line 114 of the blank
102, the edge 240 is positioned along the folding line 116 of the
blank 102, and the edge 242 is positioned along the folding line
118 of the blank 102.
[0063] Once the blank 104 has been folded and secured as discussed
hereinabove, the blank 104 is generally in the form of a triangular
prism with edges 240, 272, 304 generally forming a triangle and
edges 242, 274, 306 generally forming a triangle.
[0064] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the blank 102 is folded upwardly
along fold lines 142, 116, 132 such that the first side panel 164
of the blank 102 faces, and possibly contacts, the edges 272, 304
of the folded blank 104.
[0065] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the blank 102 is folded upwardly
along fold lines 144, 118, 134 such that the second side panel 172
of the blank 102 faces, and possibly contacts, the edges 274, 306
of the folded blank 104.
[0066] As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the blank 102 is folded
inwardly along fold lines 188, 198. The folding of the blank 102
along fold lines 188, 198 causes a number of things to occur.
[0067] The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 188 causes the
inner surface 108 of the first portion 180a of the first front
intermediate panel 180 to face, and possibly contact, the outer
surface 230 of the front panel 268 of the blank 104 proximate to
the edge 272 of the blank 104. The first portion 180a of the first
front intermediate panel 180 is then generally parallel to the
front panel 268 of the blank 104.
[0068] The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 198 causes the
inner surface 108 of the first portion 190a of the second front
intermediate panel 190 to face, and possibly contact, the outer
surface 230 of the front panel 268 of the blank 104 proximate to
the edge 274 of the blank 104. The first portion 190a of the second
front intermediate panel 190 is then generally parallel to the
front panel 268 of the blank 104.
[0069] The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 188 also causes
the blank 102 to be further folded along fold line 132 such that
the outer surface 106 of the second portion 180b of the first front
intermediate panel 180 to face, and possibly contact, both the
outer surface 106 of the first portion 180a of the first front
intermediate panel 180 and the outer surface 230 of the front panel
268 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 272 of the blank 104.
The second portion 180b of the first front intermediate panel 180
is then generally parallel to the first portion 180a of the first
front intermediate panel 180 and to the front panel 268 of the
blank 104. The edge 184 of the second portion 180b of the first
front intermediate panel 180 is positioned proximate to the edge
270 of the blank 104.
[0070] The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 198 also causes
the blank 102 to be further folded along fold line 134 such that
the outer surface 106 of the second portion 190b of the second
front intermediate panel 190 to face, and possibly contact, both
the outer surface 106 of the first portion 190a of the second front
intermediate panel 190 and the outer surface 230 of the front panel
268 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 274 of the blank 104.
The second portion 190b of the second front intermediate panel 190
is then generally parallel to the first portion 190a of the second
front intermediate panel 190 and to the front panel 268 of the
blank 104. The edge 194 of the second portion 190b of the second
front intermediate panel 190 is positioned proximate to the edge
270 of the blank 104.
[0071] The folding of the blank 102 along the fold lines 188, 198
also causes the front panel 128 to be folded upwardly along fold
line 112 such that the inner surface 108 of the front panel 128
faces, and possibly contacts, the inner surface 108 of the second
portions 180b, 190b of the first and second front intermediate
panels 180, 190 and the outer surface 230 of the front panel 268 of
the blank 104. The front panel 128 is then generally parallel to
the second portions 180b, 190b of the first and second front
intermediate panels 180, 190. The edge 130 of the front panel 128
is positioned proximate to the edges 184, 194 of the second
portions 180b, 190b of the first and second front intermediate
panels 180, 190 and proximate to the edge 270 of the blank 104. The
aperture 136 of the front panel 128 is placed into communication
with the aperture 294 of the front panel 268 and, thus, the
aperture 328 of the back panel 300.
[0072] As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the blank 102 is folded
inwardly along fold lines 210, 222. The folding of the blank 102
along fold lines 210, 222 causes a number of things to occur.
[0073] The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 210 causes the
inner surface 108 of the first portion 200a of the first back
intermediate panel 200 to face, and possibly contact, the outer
surface 230 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104 proximate to the
edge 304 of the blank 104. The first portion 200a of the first back
intermediate panel 200 preferably does not come into contact with
the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank
104. The first portion 200a of the first back intermediate panel
200 is then generally parallel to the back panel 300 of the blank
104.
[0074] The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 222 causes the
inner surface 108 of the first portion 212a of the second back
intermediate panel 212 to face, and possibly contact, the outer
surface 230 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104 proximate to the
edge 306 of the blank 104. The first portion 212a of the second
back intermediate panel 212 preferably does not come into contact
with the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the
blank 104. The first portion 212a of the second back intermediate
panel 212 is then generally parallel to the back panel 300 of the
blank 104.
[0075] The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 210 also causes
the blank 102 to be further folded along fold line 142 such that
the outer surface 106 of the second portion 200b of the first back
intermediate panel 200 to face, and possibly contact, both the
outer surface 106 of the first portion 200a of the first back
intermediate panel 200 and the outer surface 230 of the back panel
300 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 304 of the blank 104.
The second portion 200b of the first back intermediate panel 200
preferably does not come into contact with the second recessed
portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104, but the edge
208 of the blank 102 is configured such that it generally is
positioned around the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel
300 of the blank 104. The second portion 200b of the first back
intermediate panel 200 is then generally parallel to the first
portion 200a of the first back intermediate panel 200 and to the
back panel 300 of the blank 104. The edge 204 of the second portion
200b of the first back intermediate panel 200 is positioned
proximate to the edge 302 of the blank 104.
[0076] The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 210 also causes
the blank 102 to be further folded along fold line 144 such that
the outer surface 106 of the second portion 212b of the second back
intermediate panel 212 to face, and possibly contact, both the
outer surface 106 of the first portion 212a of the second back
intermediate panel 212 and the outer surface 230 of the back panel
300 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 306 of the blank 104.
The second portion 212b of the second back intermediate panel 212
preferably does not come into contact with the second recessed
portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104, but the edge
220 of the blank 102 is configured such that it generally is
positioned around the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel
300 of the blank 104. The second portion 212b of the second back
intermediate panel 212 is then generally parallel to the first
portion 212a of the second back intermediate panel 212 and to the
back panel 300 of the blank 104. The edge 216 of the second portion
212b of the second back intermediate panel 212 is positioned
proximate to the edge 302 of the blank 104.
[0077] The folding of the blank 102 along the fold lines 210, 222
also causes the back panel 138 to be folded upwardly along fold
line 114 such that the inner surface 108 of the back panel 138
faces, and possibly contacts, the inner surface 108 of the second
portions 200b, 212b of the first and second back intermediate
panels 200, 212 and the outer surface 230 of the back panel 300 of
the blank 104. The back panel 138 is then generally parallel to the
second portions 200b, 212b of the first and second back
intermediate panels 200, 212. The fold line 140 of the back panel
138 is positioned proximate to the edges 204, 216 of the second
portions 200b, 212b of the first and second back intermediate
panels 200, 212 and proximate to the edge 302 of the blank 104. The
aperture 146 of the back panel 138 is placed into communication
with the aperture 328 of the back panel 300 and, thus, the aperture
294 of the front panel 268.
[0078] When the back panel 138 of the blank 102 is folded, the
aperture 148 of the back panel 138 is configured such that the
second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 100
protrudes through the aperture 148 of the back panel 138 of the
blank 102. The first and second portions 148a, 148b of the aperture
148 are provided to allow the second recessed portion 324 of the
back panel 300 to protrude through the aperture 148 and the tab
portion 150 of the back panel 138 is positioned against, and can
flex against, the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel
300.
[0079] The blank 102 is then folded along fold line 140 such that
the top panel 152 of the blank 102 is inserted between the second
portion 180b of the first front intermediate panel 180 of the blank
102 and the front panel 128 of the blank 102, and between the
second portion 190b of the second front intermediate panel 190 of
the blank 102 and the front panel 128 of the blank 102. The
insertion of the top panel 152 is assisted by folding the top panel
along the fold line 160 and the third portion 158c of the edge 158
is first inserted between the edges 184, 194 of the second portions
180b, 190b of the first and second front intermediate panels 180,
190 and the edge 130 of the front panel 128. Upon the top panel 152
being fully inserted, the aperture 162 of the top panel 152 is
positioned between the aperture 136 of the front panel 128 of the
blank 102 and the aperture 294 of the front panel 268 of the blank
104, such that the apertures 136, 162, 294, 328, 146 are all in
communication with one another. The insertion of the top panel 152
secures the blank 102 to itself by a friction fit.
[0080] If desired, an adhesive (not shown) could be used to secure
the outer surface 106 of the top panel 152 to the inner surface 108
of the front panel 128 to further secure the blank 102 to itself,
in addition to the friction fit.
[0081] Once the blank 102 has been folded and secured as discussed
hereinabove, the blank 102 is generally in the form of a triangular
prism, which encapsulates and secures therein the folded blank 104
which is also generally in the form of a triangular prism, with
fold lines 116, 132, 142 generally forming a triangle and fold
lines 118, 134, 144 generally forming a triangle. Thus, the carton
100, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, is generally in the form of
a triangular prism.
[0082] The folding of the blanks 102, 104 thus forms the carton 100
illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 which is utilized for packaging
goods, such as the member 342. The carton 100 has the blank 102,
which is preferably formed of a cardboard material, wrapped around
the blank 104, which is preferably formed of a clear or transparent
plastic material, such that a front side 344 of the carton 100
(which is the outer surface 106 of the front panel 128 of the blank
102) may be dedicated to full, stylish graphics, and such that on a
back side 346 of the carton 100 (which is the outer surface 106 of
the back panel 138 of the blank 102 and the outer surface 230 of
the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank
104), the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the
blank 104 protrudes or bulges out of the aperture 148 of the back
panel 138 of the blank 102 in order to display the goods, such as
the member 342, within the blank 104. The blank 102 of the carton
100 thus generally forms an outer portion of the carton 100 and the
blank 104 of the carton 100 thus generally forms an inner portion
of the carton 100.
[0083] The carton 100 thus is configured to provide substantial
information regarding the packaged goods, such as the member 342,
on the outer surface 106 of the blank 102. The carton 100 further
is configured to protect the packaged goods, such as the member
342, as the member 342 is secured within the folded blank 104
which, in turn, is secured within the folded blank 102. The carton
100 further is configured such that a consumer can view the
packaged goods, such as the member 342, which are secured within
the folded blank 104 because of the aperture 148 of the blank 102
and because of the blank 104 being formed of a clear or transparent
plastic material. The carton 100 also lends itself to be opened
with ease by a consumer once the carton 100 with the packaged goods
therein has been purchased, but is not easily opened by a consumer
at a store where the carton 100 with the packaged goods is on
display and on sale, as there are a few steps that would need to be
taken in order to access the packaged goods within the carton 100.
Finally, the carton 100 is configured such that it can easily be
hung from a hang hook in a store as the hang hook would extend
through the apertures 146, 328, 294, 162, 136 of the carton
100.
[0084] It should be noted that the configuration of the blanks 102,
104 need not be identical to that as described hereinabove as the
blanks 102, 104 can be configured in other manners in order to
achieve the objects of the invention. The blanks 102, 104 need only
be configured such that the blank 104 is capable of effectively
encapsulating and securing goods therein, such as the member 342,
such that the goods are protected from damage and such that the
blank 102 may then encapsulate and secure the blank 104 therein in
such a manner that the goods are still visible through an opening
or aperture provided in the blank 102.
[0085] While a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown and
described, it is envisioned that those skilled in the art may
devise various modifications without departing from the spirit and
scope of the foregoing description.
* * * * *