U.S. patent application number 14/900875 was filed with the patent office on 2016-06-09 for carton and carton blank.
The applicant listed for this patent is WESTROCK PACKAGING SYSTEMS, LLC. Invention is credited to Nathaniel B. Ball.
Application Number | 20160159516 14/900875 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51205616 |
Filed Date | 2016-06-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160159516 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ball; Nathaniel B. |
June 9, 2016 |
CARTON AND CARTON BLANK
Abstract
A carton (90) for one or more articles (A) includes a tubular
structure formed from at least a top panel (12/20), a first side
wall panel (14), a second side wall panel (18) and a base panel
(16). The carton has a handle structure (H) defined at least in the
top panel that includes a handle strap (50a/50b). The carton
further includes a relief structure (R1/R2) for controlling and
directing deformation of the top panel and at least one of the side
wall panels. The relief structure includes a fold line (54b)
extending from the handle strap across the top panel and into at
least one of the side wall panels. A weakening feature interrupts
the fold line, and is formed in part in the top panel and in part
in at least one of the side wall panels.
Inventors: |
Ball; Nathaniel B.;
(Richmond, VA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
WESTROCK PACKAGING SYSTEMS, LLC |
Richmond |
VA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51205616 |
Appl. No.: |
14/900875 |
Filed: |
June 24, 2014 |
PCT Filed: |
June 24, 2014 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US14/43872 |
371 Date: |
December 22, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61839342 |
Jun 25, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
229/117.13 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 2571/00728
20130101; B65D 2571/0058 20130101; B65D 2571/00469 20130101; B65D
5/16 20130101; B65D 5/0227 20130101; B65D 5/4266 20130101; B65D
5/443 20130101; B65D 5/4208 20130101; B65D 2571/00549 20130101;
B65D 71/36 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 5/42 20060101
B65D005/42; B65D 5/16 20060101 B65D005/16; B65D 5/44 20060101
B65D005/44; B65D 5/02 20060101 B65D005/02 |
Claims
1. A carton for packaging one or more articles, comprising a
plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure including a top
panel, a first side wall panel, a second side wall panel and a base
panel, the carton comprising a handle structure defined at least in
the top panel, the handle structure comprising a handle strap,
wherein the carton comprises a relief structure for controlling and
directing deformation of the top panel and at least one of the
first and second side wall panels, the relief structure comprising
a fold line extending from the handle strap across the top panel
and into said at least one of the first and second side wall
panels, wherein a weakening feature interrupts the fold line, the
weakening feature being formed in part in the top panel and in part
in said at least one of the first and second side wall panels.
2. The carton according to claim 1 wherein the weakening feature
comprises at least one aperture.
3. The carton according to claim 2 wherein the at least one
aperture has a longitudinal axis which is collinear with the fold
line.
4. The carton according to claim 1 wherein the weakening feature
comprises one selected from the group consisting of a slit, an
interrupted slit, a half cut, an interrupted half cut, and a
combination thereof, the weakening feature extending collinear with
the fold line.
5. The carton according to claim 1 wherein the fold line is
substantially straight and is orientated substantially
perpendicular to a tubular axis of the carton.
6. The carton according to claim 1 wherein the handle strap extends
in the direction substantially parallel to a tubular axis of the
carton.
7. A carton for packaging one or more articles comprising a
plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure including a top
panel, a first side wall panel, a second side wall panel and a base
panel, the carton comprising a handle structure defined at least in
the top panel, the handle structure comprising a handle strap,
wherein the carton comprises a relief structure for controlling and
directing deformation of the top panel and at least one of the
first and second side wall panels, the relief structure comprising
a fold line extending from the handle strap across the top panel
and into said at least one of the first and second side wall
panels, the relief structure further comprising a first
substantially "V" shaped fold line defined in said at least one of
the first and second side wall panels and a second substantially
"V" shaped fold line defined in said at least one of the first and
second side wall panels, wherein the first substantially "V" shaped
fold line comprises a pair of first arms which meet each other at a
first point of intersection, and the second substantially "V"
shaped fold line comprises a pair of second arms which meet each
other at a second point of intersection, the first and second
points of intersection being disposed along the fold line and
spaced from each other.
8. The carton according to claim 7 wherein the first arms of the
first substantially "V" shaped fold line extend from a hinged
connection between the top panel and said at least one of the first
and second side wall panels and terminate at the first point of
intersection.
9. The carton according to claim 8 wherein the second arms of the
second substantially "V" shaped fold line extend from a hinged
connection between the top panel and said at least one of the first
and second side wall panels and terminate at the second point of
intersection, the second point of intersection being disposed
between the first point of intersection and the hinged connection
between the top panel and said at least one of the first and second
side wall panels.
10. The carton according to claim 7 wherein one of the first arms
and one of the second arms extend from the same location on a
hinged connection between the top panel and said at least one of
the first and second side wall panels and terminate at the first
and second points of intersection respectively, and the other of
the first arms and the other of the second arms extend from the
same location on the hinged connection and terminate at the first
and second points of intersection respectively.
11. The carton according to claim 7 wherein the first arms comprise
a pair of arcuate fold lines.
12. The carton according to claim 11 wherein the second arms
comprise a pair of arcuate fold lines.
13. The carton according to claim 7 wherein the first point of
intersection of the first arms is located at a terminal end of the
fold line.
14. The carton according to claim 13 wherein the second point of
intersection of the second arms is located substantially
equidistant from the terminal end of the fold line as it is from a
hinged connection between the top panel and said at least one of
the first and second side wall panels.
15. The carton according to claim 7 wherein the first arms of the
first substantially "V" shaped fold line extends into the top panel
such that the first arms terminate adjacent opposed ends of the
handle strap respectively.
16. The carton according to claim 7 wherein the handle strap is
defined at least in part by a pair of elongate apertures struck
from the top panel.
17. The carton according to claim 7 wherein a weakening feature
interrupts the fold line, the weakening feature being formed in
part in the top panel and in part in said at least one of the first
and second side wall panels.
18. A blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a plurality
of panels for forming a tubular structure including a top panel, a
first side wall panel, a second side wall panel and a base panel,
the blank comprising a handle structure defined at least in the top
panel, the handle structure comprising a handle strap, wherein the
blank comprises a relief structure for controlling and directing
deformation of the top panel and at least one of the first and
second side wall panels in a set-up carton, the relief structure
comprising a fold line extending from the handle strap across the
top panel and into said at least one of the first and second side
wall panels, wherein a weakening feature interrupts the fold line,
the weakening feature being formed in part in the top panel and in
part in said at least one of the first and second side wall
panels.
19. The blank according to claim 18 wherein the weakening feature
comprises one selected from the group consisting of a slit, an
interrupted slit, a half cut, an interrupted half cut, and a
combination thereof, the weakening feature extending collinear with
the fold line.
20. (canceled)
21. The blank according to claim 18 wherein the weakening feature
comprises at least one aperture.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a carton for packaging one
or more articles and a blank for forming the same, more
specifically, but not exclusively to a carton having a carrying
handle with a relief structure for controlling the deformation of
the carton when the carrying handle is employed.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In the field of packaging it is often required to provide
consumers with a package comprising multiple primary product
containers. Such multi-packs are desirable for shipping and
distribution and for display of promotional information. For cost
and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to
be formed from as little material as possible and cause as little
wastage in the materials from which they are formed as possible.
Another consideration is the strength of the packaging and its
suitability for holding and transporting large weights of
articles.
[0003] It is desirable to provide a carrying handle such that the
consumer can carry the multi-pack; it is desirable to control the
deformation of the carton when the carrying handle is employed.
[0004] The present invention seeks to overcome or at least mitigate
the problems of the prior art.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention there
is provided a carton for packaging one or more articles comprising
a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure including a
top panel, a first side wall panel, a second side wall panel and a
base panel, the carton comprising a handle structure defined at
least in the top panel, the handle structure comprising a handle
strap, wherein the carton comprises a relief structure for
controlling and directing deformation of the top panel and at least
one of the first and second side wall panels, the relief structure
comprising a fold line extending from the handle strap across the
top panel and into said at least one of the first and second side
wall panels, wherein a weakening feature, e.g., one or more
apertures or a one or more slits, interrupts the fold line, the
weakening feature being formed in part in the top panel and in part
in said at least one of the first and second side wall panels.
[0006] This is advantageous since it provides a controlled
deformation of the panels of the carton. This can improve the
appearance of the carton and/or reduce the likelihood of the panels
tearing when under load, since the load forces are directed or
controlled by the relief structure.
[0007] Preferably, the weakening feature may comprise at least one
aperture (which preferably is oval in shape) that has a
longitudinal axis collinear with the fold line.
[0008] Optionally, the weakening feature may comprise at least one
slit that is collinear with the fold line.
[0009] Optionally, the fold line may be straight and may be
disposed substantially perpendicular to the tubular axis of the
carton.
[0010] In some embodiments the handle strap may extend in the
direction substantially parallel to the tubular axis of the
carton.
[0011] According to a second aspect of the present invention there
is provided a carton for packaging one or more articles comprising
a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure including a
top panel, a first side wall panel, a second side wall panel and a
base panel, the carton comprising a handle structure defined at
least in the top panel, the handle structure comprising a handle
strap, wherein the carton comprises a relief structure for
controlling and directing deformation of the top panel and at least
one of the first and second side wall panels, the relief structure
comprising a linear fold line extending from the handle strap
across the top panel and into said at least one of the first and
second side wall panels, the relief structure comprising a first
substantially "V" shaped fold line defined in said at least one of
the first and second side wall panels, and a second substantially
"V" shaped fold line defined in said at least one of the first and
second side wall panels, wherein the first substantially "V" shaped
fold line comprises a pair of first arms which meet each other at a
first point of intersection, and the second substantially "V"
shaped fold line comprises a pair of second arms which meet each
other at a second point of intersection, the first and second
points of intersection being disposed along the fold line and
spaced from each other.
[0012] Optionally, the first arms may commence from the hinged
connection between the top panel and said at least one of the first
and second side wall panels and terminate at the first point of
intersection.
[0013] In some embodiments, the second arms may commence from the
hinged connection between the top panel and said at least one of
the first and second side wall panels and terminates at the second
point of intersection.
[0014] Preferably, one of the first arms and one of the second arms
may commence from the same location on the hinged connection
between the top panel and said at least one of the first and second
side wall panels while the other first arm and the other second arm
may commence from the same location on the hinged connection
between the top panel and said at least one of the first and second
side wall panels.
[0015] The first arms of the first substantially "V" shaped fold
line may be a pair of arcuate fold lines.
[0016] The second arms of the second substantially "V" shaped fold
line may be a pair of arcuate fold lines.
[0017] Optionally, the first point of intersection of the first
arms may be located at a terminal end of the fold line. The second
point of intersection of the second arms may be located
substantially equidistant from the terminal end of the fold line as
it is from the hinged connection between the top panel and said at
least one of the first and second side wall panels.
[0018] In some embodiments, the first arms of the first
substantially "V" shaped fold line may extend into the top panel
such that they terminate adjacent the opposed ends of the handle
strap respectively.
[0019] The handle strap may be defined at least in part by a pair
of elongate apertures struck from the top panel.
[0020] Optionally, a weakening feature such as an aperture or a
slit may interrupt the fold line. The weakening feature may be
formed in part in the top panel and in part in said at least one of
the first and second side wall panels.
[0021] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a
plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure including a top
panel, a first side wall panel, a second side wall panel and a base
panel, the blank comprising a handle structure defined at least in
the top panel, the handle structure comprising a handle strap,
wherein the blank comprises a relief structure for controlling and
directing deformation of the top panel and at least one of the
first and second side wall panels in a set-up carton, the relief
structure comprising a fold line extending from the handle strap
across the top panel and into said at least one of the first and
second side wall panels, wherein a weakening feature (e.g., one or
more apertures or one or more slits) interrupts the fold line, the
weakening feature being formed in part in the top panel and in part
in said at least one of the first and second side wall panels.
[0022] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a
plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure including a top
panel, a first side wall panel, a second side wall panel and a base
panel, the blank comprising a handle structure defined at least in
the top panel, the handle structure comprising a handle strap,
wherein the blank comprises a relief structure for controlling and
directing deformation of the top panel and at least one of the
first and second side wall panels in a set-up carton, the relief
structure comprising a linear fold line extending from the handle
strap across the top panel and into said at least one of the first
and second side wall panels, the relief structure comprising a
first substantially "V" shaped fold line defined in said at least
one of the first and second side wall panels and a second
substantially "V" shaped fold line defined in said at least one of
the first and second side wall panels, wherein the first
substantially "V" shaped fold line comprises a pair of first arms
meeting at a first intersection, and the second substantially "V"
shaped fold line comprises a pair of second arms meeting at a
second intersection, the first and second intersections being
disposed along the linear fold line and spaced apart from each
other.
[0023] Within the scope of this application it is envisaged and
intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features
and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims
and/or in the following description and drawings may be taken
independently or in any combination thereof. For example, features
described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all
embodiments unless there is incompatibility of features.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described
with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0025] FIG. 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a
carton according to a first embodiment of the invention;
[0026] FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of
the blank of FIG. 1;
[0027] FIG. 3 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed
from the blank of FIG. 1;
[0028] FIG. 4 is a perspective view from above of a portion of the
carton of FIG. 3;
[0029] FIG. 5 is a perspective view from above of the portion of
the carton FIG. 4 when the carrying handle is being employed;
and
[0030] FIG. 6 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a
carton according to a second embodiment of the invention wherein
the blank is provided with weakening features each comprises a
weakened line of severance.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0031] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the
package, blanks and cartons are disclosed herein. It will be
understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of
the way in which certain aspects of the invention can be
implemented, and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the
ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word
"exemplary" is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve
as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will
be understood that the packages, blanks and cartons described
herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The
Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be
exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components.
Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily
described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present
disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details
disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely
as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for
teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the
invention.
[0032] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank
10 capable of forming a carton as shown in FIG. 3, which carton can
accept an input of primary products such as, but not limited to,
bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as "articles".
[0033] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and
"carrier" refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the
various features of the invention, to a container for engaging,
carrying, and/or dispensing articles, such as product containers.
It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be
applied to various product containers, which may or may not be
tapered and/or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles
(for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for
example aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.
[0034] The blank 10 is formed from a sheet of suitable substrate.
It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable
substrate" includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as
paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations
thereof, and the like. It should be recognized that one or other
numbers of blanks may be employed, where suitable, for example, to
provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.
[0035] In the exemplary embodiment, the blank 10 is configured to
form a carton or carrier for packaging an exemplary arrangement of
exemplary articles. In a first illustrated exemplary embodiment,
the arrangement is a 3.times.6 matrix or array and the eighteen
articles are cans. The blank can be alternatively configured to
form a carrier for packaging other types, number and size of
article and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or
configuration.
[0036] The blank 10 comprises a plurality of main panels 12, 14,
16, 18, 20. A first top panel 12 is hinged to a first side wall
panel 14 by a fold line 13. The first side wall panel 14 is hinged
to a base panel 16 by a fold line 15. The base panel 16 is hinged
to a second side wall panel 18 by a fold line 17. The second side
wall panel 18 is hinged to a second top panel 20 by a fold line
19.
[0037] The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 form a
tubular structure in an erected form. The ends of the tubular
structure are closed by end closure structures having a plurality
of end closure panels 22a, 24a, 26a, 28a, 30a, 22b, 24b, 26b, 28b,
30b. A first end of the tubular structure is closed by a first
group of end closure panels 22a, 24a, 26a, 28a, 30a; the second end
of the tubular structure is closed by a second group of end closure
panels 22b, 24b, 26b, 28b, 30b. A first end closure panel 22a is
hinged to the first top panel 12 by a fold line 21a; a second end
closure panel 24a is hinged to the first side wall panel 14 by a
fold line 23a; a third end closure panel 26a is hinged to the base
panel 16 by a fold line 25a; a fourth end closure panel 28a is
hinged to the second side wall panel 18 by a fold line 27a and a
fifth end closure panel 30a is hinged to the second top panel 20 by
a pair of fold lines 29a, 31a.
[0038] A sixth end closure panel 22b is hinged to the first top
panel 12 by a fold line 21b; a seventh end closure panel 24b is
hinged to the first side wall panel 14 by a fold line 23b; an
eighth end closure panel 26b is hinged to the base panel 16 by a
fold line 25b; a ninth end closure panel 28b is hinged to the
second side wall panel 18 by a fold line 27b, and a tenth end
closure panel 30b is hinged to the second top panel 20 by a pair of
fold lines 29b, 31b.
[0039] The blank 10 comprises a first weakened line of severance 34
and a second weakened line of severance 32, which together form an
access means T or dispenser in a set-up carton, as shown in FIG. 3,
for facilitating access to the articles being packaged. The first
weakened line of severance 34 and the second weakened line of
severance 32 together form a continuous loop in a set-up
carton.
[0040] The first weakened line of severance 34 is provided in part
in the first side panel 14 and in part in the second end closure
panel 24a. First weakened line of severance 34 commences from a
free end edge of the second end closure panel 24a and extends
across the second end closure panel 24a into the first side panel
14. The first weakened line of severance 34 is substantially "V"
shaped. The first weakened line of severance 34 returns into the
second end closure panel 24a, extends across the second end closure
panel 24a, and terminates at the free end edge of the second end
closure panel 24a. The first side panel 14 comprises an optional
first arcuate fold line 38 which is substantially "C" shaped. Each
end of the arcuate fold line 38 intersects or meets with the first
weakened line of severance 34. First side panel 14 comprises an
optional linear fold line 36 spaced from the "C" shaped fold line
38. Each end of the linear fold line 36 intersects or meets with
the first weakened line of severance 34. Each end of the first
weakened line of severance 34 comprises a plurality of
substantially parallel weakened lines of severance 40a, 40b.
[0041] The second weakened line of severance 32 is provided in part
in the second side panel 18 and in part in the fourth end closure
panel 28a. The second weakened line of severance 32 commences from
a free end edge of the fourth end closure panel 28a and extends
across the fourth end closure panel 28a into the second side panel
18. The second weakened line of severance 32 is substantially "U"
shaped in the second side panel 18. The second weakened line of
severance 32 returns into the fourth end closure panel 28a, extends
across the fourth end closure panel 28a, and terminates at the free
end edge of the fourth end closure panel 28a. Each end of the
second weakened line of severance 32 comprises a plurality of
substantially parallel weakened lines of severance 42a, 42b for
facilitating alignment of the first weakened line of severance 34
with the second weakened line of severance 32.
[0042] The access means T defined by the first and second weakened
lines of severance 34, 32, is arranged to be in closer proximity to
the bottom panel 16 than to the composite top panel 12/20. In
alternative embodiments, the access means T may be arranged to be
in closer proximity to the composite top panel 12/20, or evenly
spaced. It will be appreciated that the access means T can be
arranged to be in closer proximity to the composite top panel 12/20
without affecting the integrity of the handle structure H.
[0043] The blank 10 comprises a handle structure denoted generally
by reference signs H1 and H2. The first top panel 12 comprises a
first part H1 of the handle structure. The first part H1 of the
handle structure comprises a first aperture 51 and a second
aperture 53. The first and second apertures 51, 53 are elongate in
shape and are disposed in a parallel, spaced-apart relationship.
The first and second apertures 51, 53 define a handle strap 50a
therebetween. The first and second apertures 51, 53 and the handle
strap 50a are orientated so as to extend in parallel to a tubular
axis of the carton when in a set-up condition.
[0044] The second top panel 20 comprises a second part H2 of the
handle structure. The second part H2 of the handle structure
comprises a third aperture 63 and a recess 61. The third aperture
63 and the recess 61 are elongate in shape and are disposed in a
parallel, spaced-apart relationship. The third aperture 63 and the
recess 61 define a reinforcing handle strap 50b therebetween. The
third aperture 63 and the recess 61 and the reinforcing handle
strap 50b are orientated so as to extend in parallel to a tubular
axis of the carton when in a set-up condition. In an alternative
embodiment, however, the handle structure may be defined not only
in the first and second top panels but also in the adjacent panels
such as panels 22a, 22b, 30a, 30b. In such an embodiment the handle
straps 50a, 50b may be extended into the respective ones of those
panels 22a, 22b, 30a, 30b.
[0045] In the set-up carton, the first aperture 51 and the third
aperture 63 are disposed in vertical registry to form a first
opening in the top wall of the carton. The second aperture 53 and
the recess 61 are disposed in vertical registry to form a second
opening in the top wall of the carton.
[0046] The handle structure comprises a first relief structure R1
and a second relief structure R2.
[0047] The first relief structure R1 comprises a plurality of score
lines or predefined fold lines. The fold lines are defined in part
in the first top panel 12 and in part in the first side wall panel
14.
[0048] The first relief structure R1 comprises a first linear or
straight fold line 54b, which extends from the second aperture 53
across the first top panel 12 into, and terminating in, the first
side wall panel 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the first linear
fold line 54b extends at least half way across the first side panel
14. In other embodiments, other arrangements are envisaged. For
example, the first linear fold line 54b may extend half way across
the first side wall panel 14, or may extend less than half way
across the first side wall panel 14. The first linear fold line 54b
is interrupted by a weakening feature in the form of a relief
aperture 58. The relief aperture 58 is defined by an endless cut
line 59 (see FIG. 2). The relief aperture 58 is defined in part in
the first top panel 12 and in part in the first side wall panel 14.
The first linear fold line 54b is located centrally with respect to
the second aperture 53. The relief aperture 58 is oval in shape,
although in other embodiments other shapes are envisaged. In some
embodiments the relief aperture 58 may be replaced with a different
type of weakening feature such as a cut line or weakened line of
severance. The relief structure R1 further comprises a pair of
first arms in the form of arcuate fold lines 52b/52c and 56b/56c.
The first arm 52b/52c is defined in part in the first top panel 12
and in part in the first side panel 14. The first arm 52b/52c
extends from a first end of the second aperture 53 across the first
top panel 12 and into the first side wall panel 14. The first arm
52b/52c terminates at the end of the first linear fold line
54b.
[0049] The other first arm 56b/56c is defined in part in the first
top panel 12 and in part in the first side panel 14. The other
first arm 56b/56c extends from a second end of the second aperture
53 across the first top panel 12 and into the first side wall panel
14. The other first arm 56b/56c terminates at the end of the first
linear fold line 54b.
[0050] The first arms 52b/52c and 56b/56c meet at a common vertex
57 disposed on the first linear fold line 54b within the first side
wall panel 14. The common vertex 57 in other words is a first point
of intersection of the first arms 52b/52c and 56b/56c. The first
arms 52b/52c and 56b/56c of the pair together provides a first
substantially "V" shaped fold line.
[0051] The first relief structure R1 further comprises a pair of
second arms in the form of arcuate fold lines 52d, 56d. The second
arms 52d, 56d extend respectively from two spaced locations along
the fold line 13, hinging the first top panel 12 to the first side
wall panel 14. The two spaced locations along the fold line 13 in
FIG. 1 coincide with the intersections of the fold line 13 and the
first arms 52b/52c, 56b/56c. The second arms 52d, 56d extend to and
terminate at a second point of intersection 55 disposed on the
first linear fold line 54b at a location between the fold line 13
and the terminal end (or the first point of intersection) 57 of the
first linear fold line 54b. The second point of intersection 55
between the second arms 52d, 56d is disposed at a substantially
equal distance from the fold line 13 to it is from the terminal end
57 of the first linear fold line 54b, although in other embodiments
other arrangements are envisaged. The second arms 52d, 56d of the
pair together provide a second substantially "V" shaped fold
line.
[0052] The first and second substantially "V" shaped fold lines
each is bisected by the first linear fold line 54b. Each of the
first and second "V" shaped fold lines point towards the base panel
16.
[0053] The first relief structure R1 further comprises a second
linear fold line 54a which is collinear with the first linear fold
line 54b. The second linear fold line 54a extends between the free
side edge of the first top panel 12 and the first handle aperture
51. A third linear fold line 52a extends between the free side edge
of the first top panel 12 and the first handle aperture 51 and is
located adjacent to a first end of the first aperture 51, and
extends transversely across the first top panel 12. The third
linear fold line 52a is collinear with an end portion 52b of the
first arm 52b/52c. The end portion 52b is substantially linear or
straight and extends transversely across the first top panel 12
between the second handle aperture 53 and the fold line 13. A
fourth linear fold line 56a extends between the free side edge of
the first top panel 12 and the first handle aperture 51 and is
located adjacent to a second end of the first aperture 51 opposite
to the first end. The fourth linear fold line 56a extends
transversely across the first top panel 12. The fourth linear fold
line 56a is collinear with an end portion 56b of the other first
arm 56b/56c. The end portion 56b is substantially linear or
straight and extends transversely across the first top panel 12
between the second handle aperture 53 and the fold line 13.
[0054] Referring now to FIG. 2, it can be seen that the first
linear fold line 54b, first and second substantially "V" shaped
fold lines 52b/52c, 56b/56c, 52d, 56d and the fold line 13 define
portions of the first side wall panel 14. A first panel portion 70
is defined by the fold line 13, the second arm 52d and the first
linear fold line 54b. A second panel portion 72 is defined by the
fold line 13, the other second arm 56d and the first linear fold
line 54b. A third panel portion 74 is defined by the second arm
52d, the first arm 52b/52c and the first linear fold line 54b. A
fourth panel portion 76 is defined by the second arm 56d, the other
first arm 56b/56c and the first linear fold line 54b. The first,
second third and fourth panel portions 70, 72, 74, 76 are each
substantially triangular in shape.
[0055] The second relief structure R2 comprises a plurality of
score lines or predefined fold lines. The fold lines are defined in
part in the second top panel 20 and in part in the second side wall
panel 18.
[0056] The second relief structure R2 comprises a fifth linear fold
line 64a which extends from the third aperture 63 across the second
top panel 20 into, and terminating in, the second side wall panel
18. In the illustrated embodiment, the fifth linear fold line 64a
extends at least half way across the second side wall panel 18. In
other embodiments, other arrangements are envisaged. For example
the fifth linear fold line 64a may extend half way across the
second side wall panel 18 or may extend less than half way across
the second side wall panel 18.
[0057] The fifth linear fold line 64a is interrupted by a second
weakening feature in the form of a second relief aperture 68. The
second relief aperture 68 is defined in part in the second top
panel 20 and in part in the second side wall panel 18. The fifth
linear fold line 64a is located centrally with respect to the third
aperture 63. The second relief aperture 68 is oval in shape,
although in other embodiments other shapes are envisaged. In some
embodiments the second relief aperture 68 may be replaced with a
different type of weakening feature such as a cut line or weakened
line of severance. The second relief structure R2 further comprises
a pair of third arms in the form of arcuate fold lines 62b/62a,
66b/66a which are defined in part in the second top panel 20 and in
part in the second side wall panel 18. The third arms 62b/62a,
66b/66a extend respectively from the first and second opposed ends
of the third aperture 63, across the second top panel 20 and into
the second side wall panel 18. The third arms 62b/62a, 66b/66a meet
and terminate at a third point of intersection 67 which is located
at the end of the fifth linear fold line 64a.
[0058] The third arms 62b/62a, 66b/66a and fifth linear fold line
64a terminate at a common vertex which is coincidental with the
third point of intersection 67 disposed within the second side wall
panel 18. Intersecting with each other at the common vertex, the
third arms 62b/62a, 66b/66a provides a third substantially "V"
shaped fold line.
[0059] The second relief structure R2 further comprises a pair of
fourth arms in the form of arcuate fold lines 62c, 66c. The fourth
arms 62c, 66c extend respectively from two spaced locations along
the fold line 19, hinging the second top panel 20 to the second
side wall panel 18. The two spaced locations coincide respectively
with the intersections between the fold line 19 and the third arms
62b/62a, 66b/66a. The fourth arms 62c, 66c extend to and terminates
at a fourth point of intersection 65 on the fifth linear fold line
64a at a location between the fold line 19 and the terminal end (or
third point of intersection) 67 of the fifth linear fold line 64a.
The fourth point of intersection 65 between the fourth arms 62c,
66c is disposed at an equal distance from the fold line 19 to it is
from the terminal end 67 of the fifth linear fold line 64a,
although in other embodiments other arrangements are envisaged. The
fourth arms 62c, 66c together provides a fourth substantially "V"
shaped fold line.
[0060] The third and fourth substantially "V" shaped fold lines
62b/62a, 66b/66a, 62c, 66c each is bisected by the fifth linear
fold line 64a. Both the "V" shaped fold lines point towards the
base panel 16.
[0061] Turning to the construction of the carton 90 as illustrated
in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, it is envisaged that the carton 90 can be
formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight
line machine so that the carton is not required to be rotated or
inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not
limited to that described below and may be altered according to
particular manufacturing requirements.
[0062] The blank 10 can be formed by folding the second top panel
20 about the fold line 19 to place the second top panel 20 in
face-contacting relationship with the second side wall panel
18.
[0063] The first side wall panel 14 and the first top panel 12 are
folded about the fold line 15. This places the first top panel 12
in overlying relationship with the second top panel 20. The first
top panel 12 is secured with glue or other suitable adhesive
treatment to the second top panel 20. The first and fifth end
closure panels 22a, 30a are secured to one another by adhesive or
other suitable treatment. The sixth and tenth end closure panels
22b, 30b are secured to one another by adhesive or other suitable
treatment. In this way a flat collapsed tubular structure is
formed. This flat collapsed tubular structure is suitable for
shipping or distribution to a convertor plant.
[0064] The flat collapsed tubular structure can be erected into a
carton by forming a tubular structure, engaging an adjacent pair of
the plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and orientating an
adjacent pair of the plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 so
as to be substantially perpendicular to each other. The tubular
structure can then be loaded with articles A by inserting the
article through one or both of the open ends of the tubular
structure. The ends of the tubular structure are closed by folding
the end closure panels 22a, 24a, 26a, 28a, 30a, 22b, 24b, 26b, 28b,
30b to be substantially perpendicular to the one of the plurality
of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 to which they are hinged.
[0065] The first and fifth end closure panels 22a, 30a are folded
to be substantially perpendicular to the top wall 12/20 formed by
the first and second top panel 12, 20. The third end closure panel
26a is folded to be substantially perpendicular to the base panel
16. The fourth end closure panel 28a is folded to be substantially
perpendicular to the second side wall panel 18 such that it is in
face contacting relationship with the first and third end closure
panels 22a, 26a. The fourth end closure panel 28a is secured to the
first and third end closure panels 22a, 26a by adhesive or other
suitable treatment. The second end closure panel 24a is folded to
be substantially perpendicular to the first side wall panel 14 and
is secured to the first and third end closure panels 22a, 26a and
to the fourth end closure panel 28a by adhesive or other suitable
treatment. The second group of end closure panels 22b, 24b, 26b,
28b, 30b is constructed in substantially the same manner to that of
the first group of end closure panels 22a, 24a, 26a, 28a, 30a
previously described.
[0066] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate the handle structure of the carton
90 in use. FIG. 4 illustrates the handle structure in a stowed or
undeployed position. FIG. 5 illustrates the handle structure in a
deployed condition.
[0067] In the stowed position, it can be seen that the panel
portions 70, 72, 74, 76 are coplanar with the rest of the first
side wall panel 14. In the deployed condition, the panel portions
70, 72, 74, 76 deform as the handle strap 50a is lifted out of the
plane of the top wall 12/20. The panel portions 70, 72, 74, 76 bow
inwardly so as to appear concave when viewed from an external
position. The portion of the top wall 12/20 disposed between the
end portion 52b of the first arcuate fold line 52b/52c and the
section of the first linear fold line 54b defined in the top wall
12/20 also bows inwardly. The portion of the top wall 12/20
disposed between the end portion 56b of the second arcuate fold
line 56b/56c and the section of the first linear fold line 54b
defined in the top wall 12/20 also bows inwardly.
[0068] This has the effect of distorting the relief aperture 58.
The distortion tends to close or reduce the size of the opening
formed by the aperture 58.
[0069] In this way, when the handle is employed by a user U, the
side wall panels 14, 18 deform in a controlled and predefined way.
This substantially preserves the appearance of the carton when the
handle is in use. It may also preserve the appearance of the carton
once the handle has been used and released. The panel portions 70,
72, 74, 76 and top wall 12/20 return at least in part to their
starting positions when the handle is no longer in use due to the
natural or inherent resilience of the material from which the
carton 90 is formed. The carton walls 14, 18 tend to buckle when
the handle structure is employed. The "V" shaped fold lines control
the direction and spread of the buckling of the carton walls 14, 18
when under the load of the articles being packaged when the handle
structure is employed. The first and fifth linear fold lines 54b,
64a provide relief to the buckling and allow the carton walls to
fold centrally. The relief apertures 58, 68 reduce the resistance
of the carton 90 to folding in this manner in the region adjacent
the fold lines 13, 19, which couple the top wall 12/20 to the first
and second side wall panels 14, 18. This further improves the
aesthetic of the carton 90. Controlling and directing the buckling
of the first and second side wall panels 14, 18 and top wall 12/20
may also improve the strength of the carton, allowing greater loads
to be carried or reducing the likelihood of tearing or other damage
as a result of employing the handle structure.
[0070] It can be appreciated that various changes may be made
within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size
and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to
accommodate articles of differing size or shape. It will be
appreciated that the top wall of the carton 90 may in alternative
embodiments be formed by a single top panel which extends between
the first and second side wall panels 14, 18 when in a set-up
condition. In such embodiments a glue flap may be provided for
securing a pair of adjacent main panels to one another. In other
embodiments the first top panel 12 and/or the second top panel 20
may extend between the first and second side wall panels 14, 18. In
such embodiments the recess 61 may be replaced with an additional
handle aperture arranged to be in vertical registry with the first
handle aperture 51 when in a set-up condition.
[0071] It should be readily understood that although the forgoing
embodiment describes the substantially "V" shaped fold lines, all
of them or at least one of them may be replaced by a substantially
"U" shaped fold line or substantially "U" shaped fold lines.
[0072] It should also be readily understood that the term
"weakening feature" as used herein refers to an aperture, an
opening, multiple apertures or openings arranged in a row, or a
weakened line of severance. The weakened line of severance may be a
cut or slit, an interrupted cut or slit, a half cut, an interrupted
half cut, a combination thereof or the like. FIG. 6 illustrates a
second embodiment of the present invention wherein the blank 110 of
a carton is provided with weakening features each comprising a
weakened line of severance 158, 168. The weakened line of severance
158 is disposed to intersect substantially perpendicularly with the
fold line 13 while the weakened line of severance 168 is disposed
to intersect substantially perpendicularly with fold line 19. The
weakened line of severance 158 extends collinear with the linear
fold line 54b and thus interrupts the fold line 54b while the
weakened line of severance 168 extends collinear with the fold line
64a and thus interrupts the fold line 64a. Those weakened lines of
severance 158, 168 function in a similar way as the relief
apertures 58, 68. The other parts of the blank 110 are identical to
those shown in FIG. 1. As such, the same reference numerals as in
FIG. 1 are used in FIG. 6 to denote those identical parts and
description thereof are being omitted. It should, however, be
understood that in a still another alternative embodiment, the
weakened lines of severance 158, 168 may be replaced by fold lines
respectively. Stated differently, the weakened features in such an
alternative embodiment may be omitted such that the linear fold
lines 58, 68, 158, 168 extend from the respective handle apertures
53, 63 continuously into the adjacent side wall panels 14, 18.
[0073] It will be recognized that as used herein, directional
references such as "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "end", "side",
"inner", "outer", "upper" and "lower" do not necessarily limit the
respective panels to such orientation, but may merely serve to
distinguish these panels from one another.
[0074] As used herein, the terms "hinged connection" and "fold
line" refer to all manner of lines that define hinge features of
the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to
one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations
for the blank. A fold line is typically a perforation, a scored
line, an embossed line, or a debossed line. Any reference to
"hinged connection" or "fold line" should not be construed as
necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed it is
envisaged that a hinged connection can be formed from any one or
more of the following: a short slit, a frangible line or a fold
line without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0075] As used herein, the term "weakened line of severance" refers
to all manner of lines that facilitate separating portions of the
substrate (e.g., paperboard or any other foldable sheet material)
from one another, or that indicate optimal separation locations.
Weakened lines of severance may be frangible or tear lines, or
otherwise may be weakened lines each formed by perforations, a line
of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a
single slit, a single half-cut, a single cut line, an interrupted
cut line, a single score line, an interrupted score lines, any
combination thereof, and the like.
[0076] It should be understood that hinged connection, weakened
lines of severance and fold lines can each include elements that
are formed in the substrate of the blank including perforations, a
line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a
single half-cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut line, slits,
scores, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be
dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For
example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with
degrees of weakness to define a fold line and/or a severance line.
The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and
resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with
more effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.
* * * * *