US20170197770A1 - Carton and carton blank - Google Patents

Carton and carton blank Download PDF

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Publication number
US20170197770A1
US20170197770A1 US15/326,092 US201515326092A US2017197770A1 US 20170197770 A1 US20170197770 A1 US 20170197770A1 US 201515326092 A US201515326092 A US 201515326092A US 2017197770 A1 US2017197770 A1 US 2017197770A1
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US
United States
Prior art keywords
panel
hand
flaps
handle
hinged
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US15/326,092
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Andrew T. Peeler
Caleb S. Loftin
Bradford J. Walling
Nathaniel B. Ball
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Original Assignee
WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by WestRock Packaging Systems LLC filed Critical WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Priority to US15/326,092 priority Critical patent/US20170197770A1/en
Assigned to WESTROCK PACKAGING SYSTEMS, LLC reassignment WESTROCK PACKAGING SYSTEMS, LLC CHANGE OF NAME (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: MEADWESTVACO PACKAGING SYSTEMS, LLC
Assigned to MEADWESTVACO PACKAGING SYSTEMS, LLC reassignment MEADWESTVACO PACKAGING SYSTEMS, LLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: BALL, NATHANIEL B., WALLING, BRADFORD J., LOFTIN, CALEB S., PEELER, ANDREW T.
Publication of US20170197770A1 publication Critical patent/US20170197770A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D71/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans or pop bottles; Bales of material
    • B65D71/06—Packaging elements holding or encircling completely or almost completely the bundle of articles, e.g. wrappers
    • B65D71/12—Packaging elements holding or encircling completely or almost completely the bundle of articles, e.g. wrappers the packaging elements, e.g. wrappers being formed by folding a single blank
    • B65D71/36—Packaging elements holding or encircling completely or almost completely the bundle of articles, e.g. wrappers the packaging elements, e.g. wrappers being formed by folding a single blank having a tubular shape, e.g. tubular wrappers, with end walls
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
    • B65D5/02—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper by folding or erecting a single blank to form a tubular body with or without subsequent folding operations, or the addition of separate elements, to close the ends of the body
    • B65D5/0227—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper by folding or erecting a single blank to form a tubular body with or without subsequent folding operations, or the addition of separate elements, to close the ends of the body with end closures formed by inward folding of flaps and securing them by heat-sealing, by applying adhesive to the flaps or by staples
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
    • B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
    • B65D5/44—Integral, inserted or attached portions forming internal or external fittings
    • B65D5/46—Handles
    • B65D5/46072—Handles integral with the container
    • B65D5/4608—Handgrip holes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2571/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans, pop bottles; Bales of material
    • B65D2571/00123—Bundling wrappers or trays
    • B65D2571/00129—Wrapper locking means
    • B65D2571/00135—Wrapper locking means integral with the wrapper
    • B65D2571/00141—Wrapper locking means integral with the wrapper glued
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2571/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans, pop bottles; Bales of material
    • B65D2571/00123—Bundling wrappers or trays
    • B65D2571/00432—Handles or suspending means
    • B65D2571/00438—Holes
    • B65D2571/0045—Holes for hands
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2571/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans, pop bottles; Bales of material
    • B65D2571/00123—Bundling wrappers or trays
    • B65D2571/00555—Wrapper opening devices
    • B65D2571/00561—Lines of weakness
    • B65D2571/00574—Lines of weakness whereby contents can still be carried after the line has been torn
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2571/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans, pop bottles; Bales of material
    • B65D2571/00123—Bundling wrappers or trays
    • B65D2571/00648—Elements used to form the wrapper
    • B65D2571/00654—Blanks
    • B65D2571/0066—Blanks formed from one single sheet
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2571/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans, pop bottles; Bales of material
    • B65D2571/00123—Bundling wrappers or trays
    • B65D2571/00709—Shape of the formed wrapper, i.e. shape of each formed element if the wrapper is made from more than one element
    • B65D2571/00722—Shape of the formed wrapper, i.e. shape of each formed element if the wrapper is made from more than one element tubular with end walls, e.g. walls not extending on the whole end surface
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2571/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans, pop bottles; Bales of material
    • B65D2571/00123—Bundling wrappers or trays
    • B65D2571/00709—Shape of the formed wrapper, i.e. shape of each formed element if the wrapper is made from more than one element
    • B65D2571/00722—Shape of the formed wrapper, i.e. shape of each formed element if the wrapper is made from more than one element tubular with end walls, e.g. walls not extending on the whole end surface
    • B65D2571/00728—Shape of the formed wrapper, i.e. shape of each formed element if the wrapper is made from more than one element tubular with end walls, e.g. walls not extending on the whole end surface the end walls being closed by gluing

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a carton and to a blank for forming the carton more specifically, but not exclusively, to a carton having a carrying handle for carrying the carton.
  • the present invention seeks to overcome or at least mitigate the problems of the prior art.
  • a handle structure for a carton comprising a pair of adjoining hand flaps hingedly connected to a handle panel by a pair of hinged connections, each hinged connection having a longitudinal axis disposed at an acute angle with respect to the vertical, the longitudinal axes of the hinged connections defining an obtuse angle therebetween and extending divergently downwards.
  • a first one of the pair of adjoining hand flaps is separated from a second one of the pair of adjoining hand flaps by a severance line.
  • the handle panel is a unitary, substantially upright handle panel.
  • each hinged connection comprises at least one linear fold line.
  • each longitudinal axis extends coincidentally with one of the at least one linear fold lines.
  • each hinged connection comprises a pair of opposed arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween.
  • each longitudinal axis extends through each of two intersecting points of a respective one of the elliptical panels.
  • each longitudinal axis extends through each of two pointed ends of a respective one of the elliptical panels.
  • each hand flap comprises a flap fold line therein for facilitating folding of a first portion of the hand flap with respect to a second portion of the handle flap.
  • the flap fold lines in the hand flaps together define an inverted V shape.
  • a first hand flap comprises a first fold line therein for facilitating folding of a first portion of the first hand flap with respect to a second portion of the first handle flap and a second hand flap comprises a second fold line therein for facilitating folding of a first portion of the second hand flap with respect to a second portion of the second handle flap.
  • the first portion of the first hand flap is disposed adjacent to the first portion of the second hand flap.
  • the handle structure comprises an aperture defining in part at least a portion of each of the pair of adjoining hand flaps.
  • the handle structure comprises at least one inner panel, the at least one inner panel comprising a cutaway or recess configured and arranged to be in registry with at least a portion of a hand opening defined at least in part by the pair of adjoining hand flaps.
  • the at least one inner panel comprises at least one inner flap hinged thereto by an inner hinged connection and the at least one inner flap defining at least a portion of the cutaway.
  • the handle structure comprises a pair of inner flaps each having an inner hinged connection.
  • each of the pair of inner flaps partially overlaps with a respective one of the pair of adjoining hand flaps.
  • each of the pair of inner flaps is disposed above the hinged connection of the respective one of the pair of adjoining hand flaps with which it is in partially overlapping relationship.
  • each of the pair of inner flaps is spaced apart from the hinged connection of the respective one of the pair of adjoining hand flaps with which it is in partially overlapping relationship.
  • each of the pair of inner flaps is convergently arranged with respect to the hinged connection of the respective one of the pair of adjoining hand flaps with which it is in partially overlapping relationship, so as to define an acute angle therebetween.
  • the handle structure comprises a pair of inner flaps provided by at least one inner panel.
  • the handle structure comprises a pair of inner flaps each having pair of lobes configured and arranged for facilitating folding of the elliptical panel substantially transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis.
  • each elliptical panel comprises a fold line for facilitating folding of the elliptical panel substantially transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis.
  • a carton for packaging one or more articles comprising a plurality of panels including a top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel and a second side panel forming a tubular structure, a first end panel for at least partially closing a first end of the tubular structure, a second end panel for at least partially closing a second end of the tubular structure, wherein the carton comprises a handle structure comprising a handle panel formed by one of said plurality of panels, the handle structure comprising a pair of adjoining hand flaps hingedly connected to the handle panel by a pair of hinged connections, each hinged connection having a longitudinal axis disposed at an acute angle with respect to the vertical, the longitudinal axes of the hinged connections defining an obtuse angle therebetween and extending divergently downwards.
  • the handle panel is a unitary, substantially upright handle panel.
  • each hinged connection comprises at least one linear fold line.
  • each longitudinal axis extends coincidentally with one of the at least one linear fold lines.
  • each hinged connection comprises a pair of opposed arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween.
  • each longitudinal axis extends through each of two intersecting points of a respective one of the elliptical panels.
  • each longitudinal axis extends through each of two pointed ends of a respective one of the elliptical panels.
  • a blank for forming a carton comprising a plurality of panels including a top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel and a second side panel for forming a tubular structure, a first end panel for at least partially closing a first end of the tubular structure, a second end panel for at least partially closing a second end of the tubular structure, wherein the blank comprises a handle structure comprising a handle panel formed by one of said plurality of panels, the handle structure comprising a pair of adjoining hand flaps hingedly connected to the handle panel by a pair of hinged connections, each hinged connection having a longitudinal axis disposed at an acute angle with respect to the vertical, the longitudinal axes of the hinged connections defining an obtuse angle therebetween and extending divergently downwards in a set-up carton.
  • FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a first embodiment
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 is an internal elevation, partially cut away, of an end portion of the carton of FIG. 2 ;
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view, from above, of an end of the carton of FIG. 3 showing the carrying handle in a deployed condition;
  • FIG. 5 is an internal elevation, partially cut away, of an end portion of the carton of FIG. 2 showing the carrying handle in a deployed condition;
  • FIG. 6 is a plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a second embodiment
  • FIG. 7A is a fragmentary external elevation of a carrying handle of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 6 showing the carrying handle in a first stowed position;
  • FIG. 7B is a fragmentary external elevation of a carrying handle of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 6 showing the outer cushioning tabs of the carrying handle folded outwardly of the carton so as to illustrate the position of the inner tabs with respect thereto;
  • FIG. 8 is a plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a third embodiment
  • FIG. 9 is a perspective view, from above, of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 8 ;
  • FIG. 9A is a fragmentary enlarged perspective view of a carrying handle of the carton of FIG. 9 ;
  • FIG. 10 is a fragmentary internal elevation of an end portion of the carton of FIG. 9 , showing the carrying handle in a stowed or undeployed condition;
  • FIG. 11 is a fragmentary internal elevation of the carrying handle of the carton of FIG. 9 , showing the carrying handle in a deployed condition;
  • FIG. 12 is a plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a fourth embodiment
  • FIG. 13 is an end elevation of a carton showing a carrying handle according to a fifth embodiment
  • FIG. 14 is a fragmentally internal elevation of a carrying handle of a carton according to a sixth embodiment.
  • FIG. 15 is a fragmentally internal elevation of a carrying handle of a carton according to a seventh embodiment.
  • FIG. 1 shows a plan view of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton 90 , as shown in FIG. 2 , for primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles B.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • the blanks are configured to form a carton or carrier for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles.
  • the arrangement is a 3 ⁇ 4 matrix or array and the articles are bottles.
  • 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.
  • the blank 10 comprises a plurality of main panels 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 hinged one to the next in a linear series.
  • the blank 10 comprises a glue panel 12 hinged to a top panel 14 by a fold line 13 .
  • the top panel 14 is hinged to a first side panel 16 by a fold line 15 .
  • the first side panel 16 is hinged to a bottom panel 18 by a fold line 17 .
  • the bottom panel 18 is hinged to a second side panel 20 by a fold line 19 .
  • the plurality of main panels 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 of the blank 10 form an open-ended tubular structure when in a set-up condition.
  • Each of the ends of the tubular structure is at least partially closed by end closure panels.
  • the ends of the tubular structure are fully closed by end closure panels 26 A, 28 A, 30 A, 32 A, 26 b, 28 B, 30 B, 32 B.
  • End closure panels 26 A, 28 A, 30 A, 32 A are configured to close a first end of the tubular structure and end panels 26 b, 28 B, 30 B, 32 B are configured to close a second end of the tubular structure.
  • a first top end closure panel 26 A is hinged to a first end of top panel 14 by a fold line 27 a.
  • a first side end closure panel 28 A is hinged to a first end of first side panel 16 by a pair of fold lines 29 a, 29 B.
  • a first bottom end closure panel 30 A is hinged to a first end of bottom panel 18 by a fold line 31 A.
  • a second side end closure panel 32 A is hinged to a first end of the second side panel 20 by a pair of fold lines 33 A, 33 B.
  • the pair of fold lines 29 a, 29 B define a first corner panel 16 A disposed between the first side panel 16 and the first side end closure panel 28 A.
  • the pair of fold lines 33 A, 33 B define a second corner panel 20 A disposed between the second side panel 20 and the second side end closure panel 32 A.
  • a second top end closure panel 26 b is hinged to a second end of top panel 14 by a fold line 27 B.
  • a third side end closure panel 28 B is hinged to a second end of the first side panel 16 by a pair of fold lines 29 c, 29 d.
  • a second bottom end closure panel 30 B is hinged to a second end of bottom panel 18 by a fold line 31 B.
  • a fourth side end closure panel 32 B is hinged to a second end of second side panel 20 by a pair of fold lines 33 c, 33 d.
  • the pair of fold lines 29 c, 29 d define a third corner panel 16 B disposed between the first side panel 16 and the third side end closure panel 28 B.
  • the pair of fold lines 33 c, 33 d define a fourth corner panel 20 B disposed between the second side panel 20 and the fourth side end closure panel 32 B.
  • the first side end closure panel 28 A and the second side end closure panel 32 A each form a minor side end closure panel.
  • the third side end closure panel 28 B and the fourth side end closure panel 32 B form a minor side end closure panel.
  • the first top end closure panel 26 A and the second top end closure panel 26 B each form a major upper end closure panel.
  • the first bottom end closure panel 30 A and the second bottom end closure panel 30 B each form a major lower end closure panel.
  • the first side end closure panel 28 A comprises a fold line 21 A extending between fold line 29 a and a free end edge of the first side end closure panel 28 A.
  • the first side end closure panel 28 A can be folded about fold line 21 A when closing the end of the carton 90 .
  • the second side end closure panel 32 A comprises a fold line 25 A extending between fold line 33 A and a free end edge of the second side end closure panel 32 A.
  • the second side end closure panel 32 A can be folded about fold line 25 A when closing the end of the carton 90 .
  • the third side end closure panel 28 B comprises a fold line 21 B extending between fold line 29 d and a free end edge of the third side end closure panel 28 B.
  • the third side end closure panel 28 B can be folded about fold line 21 B when closing the end of the carton 90 .
  • the fourth side end closure panel 32 B comprises a fold line 25 B extending between fold line 33 d and a free end edge of the fourth side end closure panel 32 B.
  • the fourth side end closure panel 32 B can be folded about fold line 25 B when closing the end of the carton 90 .
  • the top panel 14 comprises an access device Z.
  • the access device Z comprises a first gate panel 24 A and a second gate panel 24 B.
  • the first gate panel 24 A is hinged to the top panel 14 by a fold line 23 A.
  • the second gate panel 24 B is hinged to the top panel 14 by a fold line 23 B.
  • the first and second gate panels 24 A, 24 B are arranged in opposition to one another.
  • the first and second gate panels 24 A, 24 B are severably coupled to one another; the first and second gate panels 24 A, 24 B share a common inner edge defined by a severance line 23 c.
  • the first gate panel 24 A and the second gate panel 24 B are further defined by a first severance line 23 d and a second severance line 23 e.
  • the first severance line 23 d extends between a first end of the fold line 23 A and a first end of the fold line 23 B.
  • the second severance line 23 e extends between a second end of the fold line 23 A and a second end of the fold line 23 B.
  • the common severance line 23 c extends between the first severance line 23 d and the second severance line 23 e.
  • the blank 10 comprises a first handle structure H 1 in the first top end closure panel 26 A, and a second handle structure H 2 in the second top end closure panel 26 B.
  • Each of the handle structures H 1 , H 2 is substantially the same in construction, and comprises a pair of adjoining hand flaps or tabs; a first hand tab 42 A and a second hand tab 42 B are struck from the respective one of the first top end closure panel 26 A or second top end closure panel 26 B.
  • the first top end closure panel 26 A and/or second top end closure panel 26 B each form a substantially upright handle panel.
  • the first hand tab 42 A is hinged along an upper edge to the respective one of the first top end closure panel 26 A or second top end closure panel 26 B by a hinged connection in the form of a first fold line 41 A.
  • the second hand tab 42 B is hinged along an upper edge to the respective one of the first top end closure panel 26 A or second top end closure panel 26 B by a hinged connection in the form of a second fold line 41 B.
  • the first and second fold lines 41 A, 41 B are arranged to form an inverted V shape.
  • the first and second fold lines 41 A, 41 B are convergently arranged with respect to one another and define an obtuse angle therebetween.
  • Each of the first and second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B is defined in part by a portion of a U-shaped cutline or severance line 48 .
  • the first hand tab 42 A is disposed adjacent to the second hand tab 42 B.
  • the first hand tab 42 A and the second hand tab 42 B share a common edge defined by a severance line or cut line 43 .
  • Each of the hinged connections, first and second fold lines 41 A, 41 B have a longitudinal axis which, in the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1-5 , is coincidental with that fold line.
  • the longitudinal axis of each hinged connection 41 A, 41 B is disposed at an acute angle ( ⁇ + ⁇ ), less than 90°, with respect to a notional vertical axis N 2 ( FIG. 3 ).
  • the longitudinal axes of the hinged connections define an obtuse angle ⁇ therebetween and extend divergently downwards from the converging point of the hinged connections 41 A, 41 B ( FIG. 2 ).
  • the first hand tab 42 A comprises a first flap fold line 45 A and the second hand tab 42 B comprises a second flap fold line 45 B.
  • the first and second flap fold lines 45 A, 45 B facilitate folding of a first portion of the respective first or second hand tab 42 A, 42 B with respect to a second portion of the first or second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B.
  • the first and second flap fold lines 45 A, 45 B are arranged to form an inverted V shape.
  • the first and second flap fold lines 45 A, 45 B are convergently arranged with respect to one another and define an acute or obtuse angle therebetween.
  • the first and second flap fold lines 45 A, 45 B provide that adjacent lower corners of the first and second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B can be folded with respect to the rest of the respective one of the first or second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B.
  • first hand tab 42 A and the second hand tab 42 B together define a single hand opening HA ( FIGS. 4 and 5 ) when the first and second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B are folded inward of the carton, out of the plane of the first top end closure panel 26 A or the second top end closure panel 26 B.
  • the hand opening HA provides a carrying handle for a user to insert their hand into the carton 90 .
  • the first and second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B provide cushioning flaps when folded internally of the carton 90 so as to provide a comfortable handle.
  • the first side end closure panel 28 A comprises a first inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 1 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the first recess R 1 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the second hand tab 42 B of the first handle structure H 1 or the hand opening HA of the first handle structure H 1 .
  • the first recess R 1 is defined in part by a first inner tab 52 A hinged to the first side end closure panel 28 A by a fold line 51 A.
  • the second side end closure panel 32 A comprises a second inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 2 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the second recess R 2 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the first hand tab 42 A of the first handle structure H 1 , or the hand opening HA of the first handle structure H 1 .
  • the second recess R 2 is defined in part by a second inner tab 52 B hinged to the second side end closure panel 32 A by a fold line 51 B.
  • the third side end closure panel 28 B comprises a third inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 3 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the third recess R 3 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the second hand tab 42 B of the second handle structure H 2 , or the hand opening HA of the second handle structure H 2 .
  • the third recess R 3 is defined in part by a first inner tab 52 A hinged to the third side end closure panel 28 B by a fold line 51 A.
  • the fourth side end closure panel 32 B comprises a fourth inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 4 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the fourth recess R 4 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the first hand tab 42 A of the second handle structure H 2 , or the hand opening HA of the second handle structure H 2 .
  • the fourth recess R 4 is defined in part by a second inner tab 52 B hinged to the fourth side end closure panel 32 B by a fold line 51 B.
  • the carton 90 may be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight line machine such that the carton 90 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.
  • the blank 10 is folded about fold line 15 , such that the glue panel 12 and top panel 14 are folded thereabouts.
  • the top panel 14 is brought into face contacting relationship with the first side panel 16 ; the glue panel 12 is brought into face contacting relationship with the first side panel 16 and/or bottom panel 18 .
  • Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the glue panel 12 or, in alternative embodiments, to a corresponding portion of the second side panel 20 .
  • the second side panel 20 is folded about the fold line 19 such that the second side panel 20 overlies the glue panel 12 .
  • the second side panel 20 is secured to the glue panel 12 to form a flat collapsed carton.
  • the carton may be shipped or distributed in this flat collapsed form.
  • the second side panel 20 may be secured to the glue panel 12 by alternative securing means for example, but not limited to, staples or other mechanical fixing means.
  • the flat collapsed carton may be erected into a tubular structure by separating the top panel 14 from the bottom panel 18 .
  • the carton 90 in its open-ended tubular form, may be loaded with articles B through one or both open ends. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments one of the open ends of the carton 90 may be closed before loading the carton 90 with articles B through the remaining open end.
  • one or more of the end closure panels 26 A, 28 A, 30 A, 32 A, 26 B, 28 B, 30 B, 32 B are folded outwardly so as to create a funnel at one or both of the open ends of the tubular structure for facilitating loading of the carton with articles B.
  • a first end of the tubular structure is closed by folding the second and second side end closure panels 28 A, 32 A about fold lines 29 A, 33 A respectively.
  • Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the first side end closure panel 28 A, or in alternative embodiments, to a corresponding portion of the first top end closure panel 26 A.
  • Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the second side end closure panel 32 A, or in alternative embodiments, to a corresponding portion of the first top end closure panel 26 A.
  • the first top end closure panel 26 A is then folded about the fold line 27 A to be brought into contact with the second and second side end closure panels 28 A, 32 A and optionally secured thereto.
  • Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the first side end closure panel 28 A, or in alternative embodiments, to a corresponding portion of the first bottom end closure panel 30 A.
  • Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the second side end closure panel 32 A, or in alternative embodiments, to a corresponding portion of the first bottom end closure panel 30 A.
  • Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to an inner surface of the first bottom end closure panel 30 A, or in alternative embodiments, to an outer surface of the first top end closure panel 26 A.
  • the first bottom end closure panel 30 A is then folded about the fold line 31 A to be brought into contact with the second and second side end closure panels 28 A, 32 A and the first top end closure panel 26 A.
  • the first bottom end closure panel 30 A is secured to the first top end closure panel 26 A.
  • the first bottom end closure panel 30 A is secured to the second and second side end closure panels 28 A, 32 A.
  • first bottom end closure panel 30 A may be folded about fold line 31 A prior to folding the first top end closure panel 26 A about fold line 27 A. It will be appreciated that in such embodiments the first top end closure panel 26 A is disposed outermost.
  • a second end of the tubular structure is closed by folding the sixth and fourth side end closure panels 28 B, 32 B about fold lines 29 d, 33 d respectively.
  • Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the third side end closure panel 28 B, or in alternative embodiments, to a corresponding portion of the second top end closure panel 26 B.
  • Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the fourth side end closure panel 32 B, or in alternative embodiments, to a corresponding portion of the second top end closure panel 26 B.
  • the second top end closure panel 26 B is then folded about the fold line 27 B to be brought into contact with the sixth and fourth side end closure panels 28 B, 32 B and optionally secured thereto.
  • Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the third side end closure panel 28 B, or in alternative embodiments, to a corresponding portion of the second bottom end closure panel 30 B.
  • Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the fourth side end closure panel 32 B, or in alternative embodiments to a corresponding portion of the second bottom end closure panel 30 B.
  • Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to an inner surface of the second bottom end closure panel 30 B, or in alternative embodiments, to an outer surface of the second top end closure panel 26 B.
  • the second bottom end closure panel 30 B is then folded about the fold line 31 B to be brought into contact with the sixth and fourth side end closure panels 28 B, 32 B and the second top end closure panel 26 B.
  • the second bottom end closure panel 30 B is secured to the second top end closure panel 26 B.
  • the second bottom end closure panel 30 B is secured to the sixth and fourth side end closure panels 28 B, 32 B.
  • the second bottom end closure panel 30 B may be folded about fold line 31 B prior to folding the second top end closure panel 26 B about fold line 27 B. It will be appreciated that in such embodiments the second top end closure panel 26 B is disposed outermost.
  • a user inserts at least a portion of their hand into a hand opening HA created by folding the first and second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B of the first handle structure H 1 and/or second handle structure H 2 internally of the carton 90 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 .
  • the first and second inner tabs 52 A, 52 B of the respective one of the first and second handle structures H 1 , H 2 are folded internally of the carton about fold lines 51 A, 51 B.
  • the fold line 51 A and the fold line 41 A are arranged divergently with respect to each other.
  • the fold line 51 A is arranged such that it does not overlie, or intersect with, the fold line 41 A.
  • the fold line 51 A is disposed above the fold line 41 A with their respective lower ends positioned on a notional horizontal line N 1 and spaced from each other.
  • the fold lines 51 A, 41 A extend upwardly divergently from their respective lower ends toward the top panel 14 .
  • the fold line 51 A and the fold line 41 A are arranged to define an acute angle ⁇ with respect to each other.
  • the fold line 51 A is arranged to define an acute angle ⁇ with respect to the notional horizontal line N 1 .
  • the acute angle ⁇ is substantially greater than the acute angle ⁇ .
  • the fold line 51 A is arranged to define an acute angle ⁇ with respect to a notional vertical line N 2 perpendicular to the notional horizontal line N 1 .
  • the fold line 41 A is arranged to define an acute angle ⁇ with respect to the notional horizontal line N 1 .
  • the angle ⁇ is less than the angle ⁇ and may optionally be less than angle ⁇ .
  • the angle ⁇ may be between approximately 25° to 30°; for example, in one embodiment the angle ⁇ is approximately 28.5°.
  • the angle ⁇ may be between approximately 40° to 60°; for example, in one embodiment the angle ⁇ is approximately 50°.
  • the angle ⁇ may be between approximately 10° to 35°; for example, in one embodiment the angle ⁇ is approximately 21.5°.
  • the first hand tab 42 A is arranged in a partially overlapping or overlying relationship with the first inner tab 52 A.
  • the second hand tab 42 B is arranged in a partially overlapping or overlying relationship with the second inner tab 52 B.
  • the fold line 51 A is disposed above the fold line 41 A.
  • the fold line 51 B is disposed above the fold line 41 B.
  • the arrangement of the second hand tab 42 B with respect to the second inner tab 52 B is substantially the same as the arrangement of the first hand tab 42 A with respect to the first inner tab 52 A described above, albeit a mirror image of the arrangement of the first hand tab 42 A and the first inner tab 52 A.
  • the fold line 51 B and the fold line 41 B are arranged divergently with respect to each other.
  • the fold line 51 B is arranged such that it does not overlie, or intersect with, the fold line 41 B.
  • the fold line 51 B is disposed above the fold line 41 B with their respective lower ends positioned on a notional horizontal line and spaced from each other.
  • the fold lines 51 B, 41 B extend upwardly divergently from their respective lower ends toward the top panel 14 .
  • the fold line 51 B and the fold line 41 B are arranged to define an acute angle with respect to each other, as shown in FIG. 3 .
  • the fold line 51 B is arranged to define an acute angle with respect to a notional horizontal line.
  • the fold line 51 B is arranged to define an acute angle with respect to a notional horizontal line.
  • the fold line 41 B is arranged to define an acute angle with respect to a notional horizontal line.
  • the carton 90 comprises rows of articles B, optionally three articles B.
  • a central article B is disposed substantially in the middle of the carton 90
  • the handle structures H 1 , H 2 are also disposed centrally between the side walls 16 , 20 .
  • an article B is disposed centrally with respect to the hand opening HA created by folding the first and second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B.
  • the arrangement of the handle structures H 1 , H 2 allows the first and second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B to be folded on opposing sides of the centrally located article B.
  • FIG. 5 shows an internal view of the carton 90 ; a user U has partially inserted a hand through the hand opening HA created by folding the first and second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B of the first handle structure H 1 .
  • the fold lines 45 A, 45 B facilitate folding of the first and second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B respectively about the central article B.
  • the corner portions C 1 , C 2 of the first and second hand tabs 42 A, 42 B fold about fold lines 45 A, 45 B when the corner portions C 1 , C 2 come into contact with the central article B, best shown in the internal view of FIG. 5 , in which the articles B have been omitted for clarity.
  • FIGS. 6 to 15 there is shown alternative embodiments of the present invention.
  • like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100”, “200”, “300”, “400”, “500” or “600” to indicate that these features belong to the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth or seventh embodiments, respectively.
  • the alternative embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5 will be described in any greater detail.
  • FIG. 6 shows a plan view of a blank 110 according to a second embodiment.
  • the blank 110 comprises a plurality of main panels 112 , 114 , 116 , 118 , 120 hinged one to the next in a linear series.
  • the blank 110 comprises a glue panel 112 hinged to a top panel 114 by a fold line 113 .
  • the top panel 114 is hinged to a first side panel 116 by a fold line 115 .
  • the first side panel 116 is hinged to a bottom panel 118 by a fold line 117 .
  • the bottom panel 118 is hinged to a second side panel 120 by a fold line 119 .
  • the plurality of main panels 112 , 114 , 116 , 118 , 120 of the blank 110 form an open-ended tubular structure when in a set-up condition.
  • Each of the ends of the tubular structure is at least partially closed by end closure panels.
  • the ends of the tubular structure are fully closed by end closure panels 126 A, 128 A, 130 A, 132 A, 126 B, 128 B, 130 B, 132 B.
  • End closure panels 126 A, 128 A, 130 A, 132 A are configured to close a first end of the tubular structure and end panels 126 B, 128 B, 130 B, 132 B are configured to close a second end of the tubular structure.
  • the blank 110 comprises a first handle structure H 1 in a first top end closure panel 126 A, and a second handle structure H 2 in a second top end closure panel 126 B.
  • Each of the handle structures H 1 , H 2 is substantially the same in construction, and comprises a first hand tab 142 A and a second hand tab 142 B struck from the respective one of the first top end closure panel 126 A or second top end closure panel 126 B.
  • the first hand tab 142 A is hinged along an upper edge to the respective one of the first top end closure panel 126 A or second top end closure panel 126 B by a first fold line 141 A.
  • the second hand tab 142 B is hinged along an upper edge to the respective one of the first top end closure panel 126 A or second top end closure panel 126 B by a second fold line 141 B.
  • the first and second fold lines 141 A, 141 B are arranged to form an inverted V-shape.
  • the first and second fold lines 141 A, 141 B are convergently arranged with respect to one another and define an obtuse angle therebetween.
  • Each of the first and second hand tabs 142 A, 142 B is defined in part by cut lines or severance lines 148 A, 148 B and in part by an aperture A 1 .
  • the aperture A 1 is substantially triangular in shape, although other shapes may be employed in alternative embodiments.
  • the first hand tab 142 A is disposed adjacent to the second hand tab 142 B.
  • the first hand tab 142 A and the second hand tab 142 B share a common edge defined by a severance line or cut line 143 .
  • the common severance line or cut line 143 extends from the aperture A 1 to a vertex at which first and second fold lines 141 A, 141 B meet.
  • first hand tab 142 A, second hand tab 142 B and aperture A 1 define a hand opening HA when the first and second hand tabs 142 A, 142 B are folded out of the plane of the first top end closure panel 126 A or the second top end closure panel 126 B.
  • the hand opening HA provides a carrying handle for a user to insert their hand into a carton 190 , see FIG. 7A .
  • the first and second hand tabs 142 A, 142 B provide cushioning flaps when folded internally of the carton 190 so as to provide a comfortable handle.
  • the first side end closure panel 128 A comprises a first inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 1 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the first recess R 1 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the second hand tab 142 B of the first handle structure H 1 or the hand opening defined by the tabs 142 A, 142 B of the first handle structure H 1 .
  • the first recess R 1 is defined in part by a first inner tab 152 A hinged to the first side end closure panel 128 A by a fold line 151 A.
  • the second side end closure panel 132 A comprises a second inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 2 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the second recess R 2 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the first hand tab 142 A of the first handle structure H 1 , or the hand opening HA ( FIG. 7B ) defined by the tabs 142 A, 142 B of the first handle structure H 1 .
  • the second recess R 2 is defined in part by a second inner tab 152 B hinged to the second side end closure panel 132 A by a fold line 151 B.
  • the third side end closure panel 128 B comprises a third inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 3 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the third recess R 3 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the second hand tab 142 B of the second handle structure H 2 , or the hand opening HA defined by the tabs 142 A, 142 B of the second handle structure H 2 .
  • the third recess R 3 is defined in part by a first inner tab 152 A hinged to the third side end closure panel 128 B by a fold line 151 A.
  • the fourth side end closure panel 132 B comprises a fourth inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 4 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the fourth recess R 4 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the first hand tab 142 A of the second handle structure H 2 or the hand opening HA defined by the tabs 142 A, 142 B of the second handle structure H 2 .
  • the fourth recess R 4 is defined in part by a second inner tab 152 B hinged to the fourth side end closure panel 132 B by a fold line 151 B.
  • FIG. 7A shows a partial view of an end of a carton 190 in which the carrying handle is in a stowed or undeployed condition.
  • FIG. 7B shows a partial view of an end of the carton 190 in which the first and second hand tabs 142 A, 142 B of the carrying handle have been folded outwardly of the carton 190 as indicated by direction arrows D 1 , D 2 respectively.
  • the first and second hand tabs 142 A, 142 B have been folded outwardly for illustrative purposes only; in use the first and second hand tabs 142 A, 142 B of the carrying handle will be folded internally or inwardly of the carton 190 .
  • FIG. 7B illustrates the position and orientation of the first and second inner tabs 152 A, 152 B.
  • the first and second inner tabs 152 A, 152 B are located internally with respect to first and second inner tabs 152 A, 152 B. It will be appreciated from FIG. 7B that the first hand tab 142 A partially overlaps or overlays the first inner tab 152 A, and that the second hand tab 142 B partially overlaps or overlays the second inner tab 152 B.
  • FIG. 8 shows a plan view of a blank 210 according to a third embodiment.
  • the blank 210 comprises a plurality of main panels 212 , 214 , 216 , 218 , 220 hinged one to the next in a linear series.
  • the blank 210 comprises a glue panel 212 hinged to a top panel 214 by a fold line 213 .
  • the top panel 214 is hinged to a first side panel 216 by a fold line 215 .
  • the first side panel 216 is hinged to a bottom panel 218 by a fold line 217 .
  • the bottom panel 218 is hinged to a second side panel 220 by a fold line 219 .
  • the plurality of main panels 212 , 214 , 216 , 218 , 220 of the blank 210 form an open-ended tubular structure when in a set-up condition.
  • Each of the ends of the tubular structure is at least partially closed by end closure panels.
  • the ends of the tubular structure are fully closed by end closure panels 226 A, 228 A, 230 A, 232 A, 226 B, 228 B, 230 B, 232 B.
  • End closure panels 226 A, 228 A, 230 A, 232 A are configured to close a first end of the tubular structure and end panels 226 B, 228 B, 230 B, 232 B are configured to close a second end of the tubular structure.
  • the blank 210 comprises a first handle structure H 1 in a first top end closure panel 226 A and a second handle structure H 2 in a second top end closure panel 226 B.
  • Each of the handle structures H 1 , H 2 is substantially the same in construction, and comprises a first hand tab 242 A and a second hand tab 242 B struck from the respective one of the first top end closure panel 226 A or second top end closure panel 226 B.
  • the first hand tab 242 A is hinged to the respective one of the first top end closure panel 226 A or second top end closure panel 226 B by a pair of fold lines 270 A, 270 B.
  • the second hand tab 242 B is hinged the respective one of the first top end closure panel 226 A or second top end closure panel 226 B by a pair of fold lines 270 A, 270 B.
  • the pairs of fold lines 270 A, 270 B are non-linear in shape; in the illustrated embodiment the fold lines 270 A, 270 B are arcuate in shape.
  • the fold lines 270 A, 207 B converge towards each other at both ends thereof to form a vertex or point of intersection at each end.
  • the fold lines 270 A, 207 B together define web panel 276 which in the illustrated embodiment has a pointed oval or pointed elliptical shape.
  • the web panel 276 comprises a fold line 272 which bisects the web panel 276 into a first part 274 A and a second part 274 B.
  • the web panel 276 comprises a first vertex defined by first ends of the fold lines 270 A, 270 B.
  • the web panel 276 comprises a second vertex defined by second ends of the fold lines 270 A, 270 B.
  • the first and second vertices of the web panel 276 hinged to the first hand tab 242 A define a first notional linear line L 1 as shown in FIG. 9 .
  • the first and second vertices of the web panel 276 hinged to the second hand tab 242 B define a second notional linear line L 2 .
  • the first and second notional linear lines L 1 , L 2 are arranged to form an inverted V-shape.
  • the first and second notional linear lines L 1 , L 2 define an obtuse angle ⁇ therebetween.
  • the first hand tab 242 A is defined in part by cut lines or severance lines 248 A, 248 c, fold line 270 B and in part by an aperture A 1 .
  • the second hand tab 242 B is defined in part by cut lines or severance lines 248 B, 248 d, fold line 270 B and in part by an aperture A 1 .
  • the aperture A 1 is substantially triangular in shape, although other shapes may be employed in alternative embodiments.
  • the first hand tab 242 A is disposed adjacent to the second hand tab 242 B.
  • the first hand tab 242 A and the second hand tab 242 B share a common edge defined by a severance line or cut line 243 .
  • the common severance line or cut line 243 extends from the aperture A 1 to a vertex at which first and second fold lines 241 A, 241 B meet.
  • the cut lines or severance lines 248 A, 248 B are interrupted by nick portions or connecting portions N 1 , N 2 respectively.
  • the connecting portions N 1 , N 2 facilitate maintenance of the first and second hand tabs 242 A, 242 B in the plane of the first top end closure panel 226 A or second top end closure panel 226 B until the carrying handle is employed.
  • the web panel 276 and the fold lines 270 A, 270 B are substantially equivalent to the linear fold lines 41 A, 41 B; 141 A, 141 B used in the previously described embodiments, providing means for the first and second hand tabs 242 A, 242 B to fold when the carrying handle is employed.
  • the first and second hand tabs 242 A, 242 B are foldable about the first and second notional linear lines L 1 , L 2 .
  • the area occupied by the first hand tab 242 A, second hand tab 242 B and aperture A 1 defines a hand opening HA when the first and second hand tabs 242 A, 242 B are folded out of the plane of the first top end closure panel 226 A or the second top end closure panel 226 B.
  • the hand opening HA provides a carrying handle for a user to insert their hand into a carton 290 .
  • the first and second hand tabs 242 A, 242 B provide cushioning flaps when folded internally of the carton 290 so as to provide a comfortable handle.
  • the first side end closure panel 228 A comprises a first inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 1 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the first recess R 1 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the second hand tab 242 B of the first handle structure H 1 , or the hand opening HA the first handle structure H 1 .
  • the first recess R 1 is defined in part by a pair of conjoined first inner tabs 262 A, 264 A which are hinged to the first side end closure panel 228 A by a common fold line 261 A.
  • the fold line 261 A is non-linear in shape, and may, for example as illustrated, be arcuate or curvilinear in shape.
  • the two first hand tabs 262 A, 264 A as best shown in FIG. 11 , are joined together through a narrowed portion having a concaved outline which is spaced apart from the common fold line 261 A.
  • the concaved outline of the narrowed portion may in contact or intersect with the fold line 261 A to divide the inner tabs 262 A, 264 A into two substantially separated tabs.
  • the second side end closure panel 232 A comprises a second inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 2 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the second recess R 2 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the first hand tab 242 A of the first handle structure H 1 , or the hand opening HA of the first handle structure H 1 .
  • the second recess R 2 is defined in part by a pair of second inner tabs 262 B, 264 B which are hinged to the first side end closure panel 232 A by a common fold line 261 B.
  • the fold lines 261 B is non-linear in shape, and may, for example as illustrated, be arcuate or curvilinear in shape.
  • the two first hand tabs 262 B, 264 B as best shown in FIG.
  • the concaved outline of the narrowed portion may contact or intersect with the fold line 261 B to divide the inner tabs 262 B, 264 B into two substantially separated tabs.
  • the third side end closure panel 228 B comprises a third inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 3 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the third recess R 3 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the second hand tab 242 B of the second handle structure H 2 , or the hand opening HA of the second handle structure H 2 .
  • the third recess R 3 is defined in part by a pair of first inner tabs 262 A, 264 A which are hinged to the first side end closure panel 228 B by a common fold line 261 A.
  • the fold line 261 A is non-linear in shape, and may, for example as illustrated, be arcuate or curvilinear in shape.
  • the two first hand tabs 262 A, 264 A of the second handle structure H 2 are joined together through a narrowed portion having a concaved outline which is spaced apart from the common fold line 261 A.
  • the concaved outline of the narrowed portion may contact or intersect with the fold line 261 A 6 to divide the inner tabs 262 A, 264 A into two substantially separated tabs.
  • the fourth side end closure panel 232 B comprises a fourth inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 4 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the fourth recess R 4 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the first hand tab 242 A of the second handle structure H 2 , or the hand opening HA of the second handle structure H 2 .
  • the fourth recess R 4 is defined in part by a pair of second inner tabs 262 B, 264 B which is hinged to the first side end closure panel 232 B by a common fold line 261 B.
  • the fold line 261 B is non-linear in shape, and may, for example as illustrated, be arcuate or curvilinear in shape.
  • the two first hand tabs 262 B, 264 B of the second handle structure H 2 are joined together through a narrowed portion having a concaved outline which is spaced apart from the common fold line 261 B.
  • the concaved outline of the narrowed portion may contact or intersect with the fold lines 261 B to divide the inner tabs 262 B, 264 B into two substantially separated tabs.
  • each of the pair of first inner tabs 262 A, 264 A comprises a substantially oval shape having one pointed end as best shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , although in other embodiments other shapes may be employed.
  • each of the first inner tabs 262 A, 264 A may have a substantially oval shape having a pair of opposed pointed ends such that the first inner tabs 262 A, 264 A are not coupled together but in contact with each other at their adjacent pointed ends.
  • the pair of the first inner tabs 262 A, 264 A together form a single tab having a pair of lobes 262 A, 264 A, each of the lobes having a substantially oval shape having one pointed end.
  • each of the pair of second inner tabs 262 B, 264 B comprises a substantially oval shape having one pointed end as best shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , although in other embodiments other shapes may be employed.
  • each of the first inner tabs 262 B, 264 B may have a substantially oval shape having a pair of opposed pointed ends such that the second inner tabs 262 B, 264 B are not coupled together but in contact with each other at their adjacent pointed ends.
  • the pair of the second inner tabs 262 B, 264 B form a single tab having a pair of lobes 262 B, 264 B, each of the lobes having a substantially oval shape having one pointed end.
  • FIG. 10 shows an internal view of the carrying handle structure.
  • the pair of second inner tabs 262 B, 264 B are in overlapping or overlaying relationship with the web panel 276 hinged to the first hand tab 242 A.
  • the pair of first inner tabs 262 A, 264 A is in overlapping or overlaying relationship with the web panel 276 hinged to the first hand tab 242 B.
  • the pair of first inner tabs 262 A, 264 A and the pair of second inner tabs 262 B, 264 B each provide a mandrel for guiding or facilitating folding of the respective web panel 276 when the carrying handle is deployed.
  • the first inner tabs 262 A, 264 A and the second inner tabs 262 B, 264 B encourage the web panel 276 to bend about the fold line 272 such that it takes a convex shape when viewed from an internal vantage point above the carrying handle structure, as shown in FIG. 11 .
  • the web panel 276 adopts a non-planar form.
  • the web panel 276 When viewing the outer external surface of the sheet material from which the carton 290 is formed, the web panel 276 will have a concave shape; the web panel 276 may, in some embodiments, be valley shaped, that is to say forming a trough having a “V”-shaped cross section. This enhances the strength of the web panel 276 and prevents or mitigates against the web panel 276 folding about itself about a longitudinal axis of the web panel 276 defined by the first or second linear notional line L 1 , L 2 .
  • FIG. 12 shows a plan view of a blank 310 according to a third embodiment.
  • the blank 310 comprises a plurality of main panels 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 hinged one to the next in a linear series.
  • the blank 310 comprises a glue panel 312 hinged to a top panel 314 by a fold line 313 .
  • the top panel 314 is hinged to a first side panel 316 by a fold line 315 .
  • the first side panel 316 is hinged to a bottom panel 318 by a fold line 317 .
  • the bottom panel 318 is hinged to a second side panel 320 by a fold line 319 .
  • the plurality of main panels 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 of the blank 310 form an open-ended tubular structure when in a set-up condition.
  • Each of the ends of the tubular structure is at least partially closed by end closure panels.
  • the ends of the tubular structure are fully closed by end closure panels 326 A, 328 A, 330 A, 332 A, 326 B, 328 B, 330 B, 332 B.
  • End closure panels 326 A, 328 A, 330 A, 332 A are configured to close a first end of the tubular structure and end panels 326 B, 328 B, 330 B, 332 B are configured to close a second end of the tubular structure.
  • the blank 310 comprises a first handle structure H 1 in a first top end closure panel 326 A and a second handle structure H 2 in a second top end closure panel 326 B.
  • Each of the handle structures H 1 , H 2 is substantially the same in construction, and comprises a first hand tab 342 A and a second hand tab 342 B struck from the respective one of the first top end closure panel 326 A or second top end closure panel 326 B.
  • the first hand tab 342 A is hinged to the respective one of the first top end closure panel 326 A or second top end closure panel 326 B by a first pair of fold lines 381 A, 383 A.
  • the second hand tab 342 B is hinged to the respective one of the first top end closure panel 326 A or second top end closure panel 326 B by a second pair of fold lines 381 B, 383 B.
  • Each of the first pair of fold lines 381 A, 383 A are non-linear in shape; in the illustrated embodiment the fold lines 381 A, 383 A are arcuate in shape.
  • the fold lines 381 A, 383 A converge towards each other at both ends thereof to form a vertex or point of intersection at each end.
  • the fold lines 381 A, 383 A together define first web panel 376 A which in the illustrated embodiment has a pointed oval shape.
  • the first web panel 376 A comprises a first vertex defined by first ends of the fold lines 381 A, 383 A.
  • the first web panel 376 A comprises a second vertex defined by second ends of the fold lines 381 A, 383 A.
  • the first and second vertices of the first web panel 376 A hinged to the first hand tab 342 A define a first notional linear line L 1 .
  • Each of the second pair of fold lines 381 B, 383 B are non-linear in shape; in the illustrated embodiment the fold lines 381 B, 383 B are arcuate in shape.
  • the fold lines 381 B, 383 B converge towards each other at both ends thereof to form a vertex or point of intersection at each end.
  • the fold lines 381 B, 383 B together define second web panel 376 B which in the illustrated embodiment has a pointed oval shape.
  • the second web panel 376 B comprises a first vertex defined by first ends of the fold lines 381 B, 383 B.
  • the second web panel 376 B comprises a second vertex defined by second ends of the fold lines 381 B, 383 B.
  • the first and second vertices of the second web panel 376 B hinged to the second hand tab 342 B define a second notional linear line L 2 .
  • the first and second notional linear lines L 1 , L 2 are arranged to form an inverted V shape.
  • the first and second notional linear lines L 1 , L 2 define an obtuse angle ⁇ therebetween.
  • the first hand tab 342 A is defined in part by fold line 383 A and in part by a portion of a U-shaped cut line or severance line 348 .
  • the second hand tab 342 B is defined in part by fold line 383 B and in part by a portion of the U-shaped cut line or severance line 348 .
  • the first hand tab 342 A is disposed adjacent to the second hand tab 342 B.
  • the first hand tab 342 A and the second hand tab 342 B share a common edge defined by a severance line or cut line 343 .
  • the common severance line or cut line 343 extends from the U-shaped cut line or severance line 348 to a vertex at which fold line 383 A meets fold line 383 B.
  • the first hand tab 342 A comprises a first flap fold line 345 A and the second hand tab 342 B comprises a second flap fold line 345 B.
  • the first and second flap fold lines 345 A, 345 B facilitate folding of a first portion of the respective first or second hand tab 342 A, 342 B with respect to a second portion of the first or second hand tab 342 A, 342 B.
  • the first flap fold line 345 A extends between the fold line 383 A and the U-shaped cutline 348 .
  • the second flap fold line 345 B extends between the fold line 383 B and the U-shaped cutline 348 .
  • the first and second flap fold lines 345 A, 345 B are divergently arranged with respect to one another and define an acute angle therebetween.
  • the first and second flap fold lines 345 A, 345 B provide that outermost portions of the first and second hand tabs 342 A, 342 B can be folded with respect to the rest of the respective one of the first or second hand tab 342 A, 342 B.
  • first hand tab 342 A and the second hand tab 342 B together define a hand opening when the first and second hand tabs 342 A, 342 B are folded out of the plane of the first top end closure panel 326 A or the second top end closure panel 326 B.
  • the hand opening provides a carrying handle for a user to insert their hand into the carton.
  • the first and second hand tabs 342 A, 342 B provide cushioning flaps when folded internally of the carton so as to provide a comfortable handle.
  • the first side end closure panel 328 A comprises a first inner cut away such as a cutaway or recess R 1 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the first recess R 1 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the second hand tab 342 B of the first handle structure H 1 , or the hand opening HA of the first handle structure H 1 .
  • the second side end closure panel 332 A comprises a second inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 2 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the second recess R 2 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the first hand tab 342 A of the first handle structure H 1 , or the hand opening HA of the first handle structure H 1 .
  • the third side end closure panel 328 B comprises a third inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 3 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the third recess R 3 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the second hand tab 342 B of the second handle structure H 2 , or the hand opening HA of the second handle structure H 2 .
  • the fourth side end closure panel 332 B comprises a fourth inner opening such as a cutaway or recess R 4 struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the fourth recess R 4 is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the first hand tab 342 A of the second handle structure H 2 , or the hand opening HA of the second handle structure H 2 .
  • the inner tabs such as 52 A, 52 B, have been omitted from the first, second, third and fourth recesses R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , R 4 .
  • FIG. 13 shows an end view of a carton 490 according to a fifth embodiment.
  • the carton 490 comprises a plurality of main panels forming a tubular structure.
  • the tubular structure is closed at each end by end closure panels 416 A, 420 A, 426 A, 430 A.
  • the carton 490 comprises an upper end closure panel 426 A having a handle structure defined therein.
  • the handle structure comprises a first hand tab 442 A and a second hand tab 442 B.
  • the first hand tab 442 A is hinged to the upper end closure panel 426 A by a pair of non-linear fold lines 491 A, 493 A.
  • the fold lines 491 A, 493 A are arcuate in shape.
  • the fold lines 491 A, 493 A converge towards each other at both ends thereof to form a vertex or point of intersection at each end.
  • the fold lines 491 A, 493 A together define web panel 476 A which, in the illustrated embodiment, has a pointed oval shape.
  • the web panel 476 A comprises a first vertex defined by first ends of the fold lines 491 A, 493 A.
  • the web panel 476 A comprises a second vertex defined by second ends of the fold lines 491 A, 493 A.
  • the first and second vertices of the web panel 476 A hinged to the first hand tab 442 A define a first notional linear line L 1 .
  • the second hand tab 442 B is hinged to the upper end closure panel 426 A by a pair of non-linear fold lines 491 B, 493 B.
  • the fold lines 491 B, 493 B are arcuate in shape.
  • the fold lines 491 B, 493 B converge towards each other at both ends thereof to form a vertex or point of intersection at each end.
  • the fold lines 491 B, 493 B together define web panel 476 B which, in the illustrated embodiment, has a pointed oval shape.
  • the web panel 476 B comprises a first vertex defined by first ends of the fold lines 491 B, 493 B.
  • the web panel 476 B comprises a second vertex defined by second ends of the fold lines 491 B, 493 B.
  • the first and second vertices of the web panel 476 B hinged to the second hand tab 442 B define a second notional linear line L 2 .
  • the first and second notional linear lines L 1 , L 2 are arranged to form an inverted V-shape.
  • the first and second notional linear lines L 1 , L 2 define an obtuse angle ⁇ therebetween.
  • the first hand tab 442 A is separated from the second hand tab 442 B by a portion of an aperture A 3 , which portion has an inverted “V” shape.
  • a first side end closure panel 416 A comprises a first inner opening such as a cutaway or recess (not shown) struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the first recess is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with a portion of a hand opening defined by the first hand tab 442 A, second hand tab 442 B and the aperture A 3 .
  • a second side end closure panel 420 A comprises a second inner opening such as a cutaway or recess (not shown) struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the second recess is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with a portion of the hand opening defined by the first hand tab 442 A, second hand tab 442 B and the aperture A 3 .
  • FIG. 14 shows a fragmentary internal end elevation of a carton according to a sixth embodiment.
  • the carton of the sixth embodiment shares many common features with that of the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-5 and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5 will be described in any greater detail.
  • like numerals, where possible, are used to denote like parts which are also present in FIGS. 1-5 , albeit with the addition of the prefix “500” to indicate that these features belong to the sixth embodiment, respectively.
  • the carton of the sixth embodiment includes a top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel and a second side panel forming a tubular structure.
  • FIG. 14 shows a third side end closure panel 528 B hingedly connected to the first side panel and a fourth side end closure panel 532 B hingedly connected to the second side panel.
  • the third and fourth side end closure panels 528 B, 532 B close a second end of the tubular structure in cooperation with the second top and bottom end closure panels. Stated differently, the third and fourth side end closure panels 528 B, 532 B and the second top and bottom end closure panels together provide an upright, composite end wall of the carton, which closes the second end of the tubular structure.
  • FIG. 14 shows a third side end closure panel 528 B hingedly connected to the first side panel and a fourth side end closure panel 532 B hingedly connected to the second side panel.
  • the third and fourth side end closure panels 528 B, 532 B close a second end of the tubular structure in cooperation with the second top and bottom
  • the third side end closure panel 528 B is the innermost layer of the composite end wall while the fourth side end closure panel 532 B is the second innermost layer of the composite end wall wherein the respective free end portions of the third and fourth side end closure panels 528 B, 532 B are shown as overlapping with each other.
  • the top end closure panel provides either the outermost or second outermost layer of the composite wall in the manner similar to what are illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 .
  • a handle structure is provided by a pair of adjoining hand flaps 542 A, 542 B which are hingedly connected to the top end closure panel by a pair of hinged connections 541 A, 541 B such that the hand flaps 542 A, 542 B together define a single hand opening in the top end closure panel when the hand flaps 542 A, 542 B are folded out of the plane of the top end closure panel.
  • Each of the hinged connections 541 A, 541 B in this embodiment is provided by a linear fold line.
  • the longitudinal axis of each hinged connection is disposed at an acute angle with respect to a notional horizontal line. Such longitudinal axes of the hinged connections are coincidental with the fold lines 541 A, 541 B, respectively.
  • the fold lines 541 A, 541 B meet at their common upper end and downwardly extend from the common upper end divergently from each other. An obtuse angle is defined between the fold lines 541 A, 541 B.
  • the first hand tab 542 A is defined in part by fold line 541 A and in part by a portion of a U-shaped cut line or severance line 548 .
  • the second hand tab 542 B is defined in part by fold line 541 B and in part by a portion of the U-shaped cut line or severance line 548 .
  • the first hand tab 542 A is disposed adjacent to the second hand tab 542 B.
  • the first hand tab 542 A and the second hand tab 542 B share a common edge defined by a severance line or cut line 543 .
  • the severance line or cut line 543 extends from the U-shaped cut line or severance line 548 to a vertex at which fold line 541 A meets fold line 541 B.
  • the first hand tab 542 A comprises a first flap fold line 545 A while the second hand tab 542 B comprises a second flap fold line 545 B.
  • the first and second flap fold lines 545 A, 545 B facilitate folding of a first portion of the respective first or second hand tab 542 A, 542 B with respect to a second portion of the first or second hand tab 542 A, 542 B.
  • the first flap fold line 545 A extends between the severance line 543 and the U-shaped cutline 548 .
  • the second flap fold line 545 B extends between the severance line 543 and the U-shaped cutline 548 .
  • the first and second flap fold lines 545 A, 545 B converge on the severance line 453 and define an obtuse angle therebetween.
  • the first and second flap fold lines 545 A, 545 B an apex on the severance line 543 from which the flap fold lines 545 A, 545 B downwardly extend divergently from each other.
  • the hand opening defined by the hand flaps 542 A, 542 B provides a carrying handle for a user to insert their hand into the carton.
  • the first and second hand tabs 542 A, 542 B provide cushioning flaps when folded internally of the carton so as to provide a comfortable handle.
  • the third side end closure panel 528 B comprises a third inner opening such as a cutaway or recess struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the third inner opening is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the first hand tab 542 A, or the hand opening of the handle structure.
  • the fourth side end closure panel 532 B comprises a fourth inner opening such as a cutaway or recess struck from an end edge thereof.
  • the fourth inner opening is configured such that it is in alignment or registry with the second hand tab 542 B, or the hand opening of the handle structure.
  • the third inner opening is defined in part by a first inner tab 552 A hinged to the third side end closure panel 528 B by a fold line 551 A.
  • the fourth inner opening is defined in part by a second inner tab 552 B hinged to the fourth side end closure panel 532 B by a fold line 551 B.
  • the lower end of the inner flap fold line 551 A is located below the lower end of the flap fold line 541 A.
  • the inner flap fold line 551 A extends upward from its lower end, intersects with the flap fold line 541 A of the hand flap 542 A and extends above the flap fold line 541 A.
  • the fold lines 551 A, 541 A are arranged to define an acute angle with respect to each other.
  • the inner flap fold line 551 A is arranged to define an acute angle with respect to a notional horizontal line.
  • the flap fold line 541 A is arranged to define an acute angle with respect to a notional horizontal line.
  • the acute angle between the flap fold line 541 A and the notional horizontal line is less than that between the inner flap fold line 551 A and the notional horizontal line.
  • the flap fold line 541 A is arranged to define an acute angle with respect to a notional vertical line.
  • the first hand tab 542 A is arranged in a partially overlapping or overlying relationship with the first inner tab 552 A.
  • the second hand tab 542 B is arranged in a partially overlapping or overlying relationship with the second inner tab 552 B.
  • the arrangement of the second hand tab 542 B with respect to the second inner tab 552 B is substantially the same as the arrangement of the first hand tab 542 A with respect to the first inner tab 552 A described above, albeit a mirror image of the arrangement of the first hand tab 542 A and the first inner tab 552 A.
  • FIG. 15 shows a fragmentary internal end elevation of a carton according to a seventh embodiment.
  • the carton of the seventh embodiment shares many common features with that of the first and sixth embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 and 14 and therefore only the differences from the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5 and 14 will be described in any greater detail.
  • like numerals, where possible, are used to denote like parts which are also present in FIG. 14 , albeit with the addition of the prefix “600” to indicate that these features belong to the seventh embodiment, respectively.
  • the lower end of the inner flap fold line 651 A is located below the lower end of the flap fold line 641 A.
  • the inner flap fold line 651 A extends upward from its lower end, passes through the lower end of the flap fold line 641 A of the hand flap 642 A and extends above the flap fold line 641 A.
  • the lower end of the flap fold line 641 A is located on the inner flap fold line 651 A such that the flap fold line 641 A extends upwardly and divergently from the inner flap fold line 651 A.
  • the fold lines 651 A, 641 A are arranged to define an acute angle with respect to each other.
  • the inner flap fold line 651 A is arranged to define an acute angle with respect to a notional horizontal line.
  • the flap fold line 641 A is arranged to define an acute angle with respect to a notional horizontal line.
  • the acute angle between the flap fold line 641 A and the notional horizontal line is less than that between the inner flap fold line and the notional horizontal line.
  • the flap fold line 641 A is arranged to define an acute angle with respect to a notional vertical line.
  • the first hand tab 642 A is arranged in a partially overlapping or overlying relationship with the first inner tab 652 A.
  • the second hand tab 642 B is arranged in a partially overlapping or overlying relationship with the second inner tab 652 B.
  • the arrangement of the second hand tab 642 B with respect to the second inner tab 652 B is substantially the same as the arrangement of the first hand tab 642 A with respect to the first inner tab 652 A described above, albeit a mirror image of the arrangement of the first hand tab 642 A and the first inner tab 652 A.
  • the handle structures disclosed herein may be used in a variety of carton styles and are not limited to use in end-loading cartons as shown in the illustrated embodiments.
  • the handle structures may be employed in bottom or top loading cartons or any carton style including a vertical/upright handle panel in which a hand opening may be defined; the handle structure of the invention may be employed in a basket carrier, a wraparound carrier or a top engaging carrier having upright handle panels.
  • each of the foregoing described and/or illustrated embodiments may be employed on a single panel wall or on a double panel wall (two at least partially overlapping panels).
  • the hand flaps are formed from the outer panel while the inner panel wall may be provided with inner hand flaps or no hand flaps.
  • at least one inner hand flap is associated with a respective one of the outer hand flaps of the outer panel.
  • the term “inner opening” refers to all manner of openings including holes and apertures which may be a part of the handle structure of the invention. More particularly, the term “inner opening” may refer to one of the following: a cutaway, a recess, a notch, a hole and an aperture. A cutaway, recess or notch may be formed along the free end edge of an end closure panel while a hole or aperture may be formed within an end closure panel, such as shown at “ 28 A”, “ 28 B, “ 32 A” or “ 32 B” in FIG. 1 , such that the hole or aperture is surrounded entirely by the material of the end closure panel which provides an endless perimeter of the hole or aperture.
  • a hinged connection refers to all manner of lines that define hinge features in a substrate of sheet material, for facilitating folding portions of the substrate with respect to one another, or otherwise for indicating optimal folding locations in the substrate.
  • a hinged connection should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only: indeed a hinged connection can be formed from two or more fold lines wherein each of the two or more fold lines may be either straight/linear or curved/curvilinear in shape.
  • linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with each other or slightly angled with respect to each other.
  • curvilinear fold lines When curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear fold lines.
  • a typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween.
  • a hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines.
  • a typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold line which intersect at two points such that they define a half moon-shaped panel therebetween.
  • fold line may refer to one of the following: a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cut line, a line of aligned slits, a line of scores and any combination of the aforesaid options.
  • severance line refers to all manner of lines formed in a substrate of sheet material which facilitate separating portions of the substrate on the opposite sides of that line from one another, or otherwise indicate optimal separation locations on the substrate.
  • a severance line in a substrate of sheet material is predisposed to allow a tear to propagate there along.
  • a severance line may be one of the following: a single cut, a single half-cut, a single slit, an interrupted cut, a score line, an interrupted score line, a line of perforations, a line of short cuts, a line of short slits, a line of short half cuts, and any combination of the aforementioned options.
  • a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line or a severance line.
  • the line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking to provide a fold line, or to facilitate breaking with little effort to provide a severance line.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Cartons (AREA)
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US15/326,092 2014-07-16 2015-06-19 Carton and carton blank Abandoned US20170197770A1 (en)

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US15/326,092 US20170197770A1 (en) 2014-07-16 2015-06-19 Carton and carton blank
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JP2021160815A (ja) * 2020-04-01 2021-10-11 王子ホールディングス株式会社 包装箱
JP2022095519A (ja) * 2020-12-16 2022-06-28 王子ホールディングス株式会社 包装箱
USD980069S1 (en) 2020-07-14 2023-03-07 Ball Corporation Metallic dispensing lid
CN116018306A (zh) * 2020-06-23 2023-04-25 维实洛克包装系统有限公司 物品承载器及其坯件
US12168551B2 (en) 2021-03-01 2024-12-17 Ball Corporation Metal container and end closure with seal

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WO2018204569A1 (en) * 2017-05-03 2018-11-08 Westrock Packaging Systems, Llc Carton and blank therefor
AU2018269586A1 (en) * 2017-05-18 2019-11-14 Westrock Packaging Systems, Llc Carton and blank therefor
AU2018295288A1 (en) * 2017-06-30 2020-01-16 Westrock Packaging Systems, Llc Carton and blank therefor

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US20100044420A1 (en) * 2008-08-22 2010-02-25 Kirsten Laura Brand Carton with insert
US20130092725A1 (en) * 2011-10-17 2013-04-18 Graphic Packaging International, Inc. Carton With Handle

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MX352577B (es) * 2012-07-17 2017-11-29 Graphic Packaging Int Llc Caja de cartón con inserto.

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US4706846A (en) * 1986-07-28 1987-11-17 Bernard Engelhardt Tag dispenser
US5106014A (en) * 1990-09-12 1992-04-21 The C. W. Zumbiel Co. Carton carrying handle
US20100044420A1 (en) * 2008-08-22 2010-02-25 Kirsten Laura Brand Carton with insert
US20130092725A1 (en) * 2011-10-17 2013-04-18 Graphic Packaging International, Inc. Carton With Handle

Cited By (7)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2021160815A (ja) * 2020-04-01 2021-10-11 王子ホールディングス株式会社 包装箱
JP7516824B2 (ja) 2020-04-01 2024-07-17 王子ホールディングス株式会社 包装箱
CN116018306A (zh) * 2020-06-23 2023-04-25 维实洛克包装系统有限公司 物品承载器及其坯件
JP2023531708A (ja) * 2020-06-23 2023-07-25 ウエストロック・パッケージング・システムズ・エルエルシー 物品キャリアおよび物品キャリア用のブランク
USD980069S1 (en) 2020-07-14 2023-03-07 Ball Corporation Metallic dispensing lid
JP2022095519A (ja) * 2020-12-16 2022-06-28 王子ホールディングス株式会社 包装箱
US12168551B2 (en) 2021-03-01 2024-12-17 Ball Corporation Metal container and end closure with seal

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CA2955162A1 (en) 2016-03-03
MX378345B (es) 2025-03-10
TW201604093A (zh) 2016-02-01
EP3169602A1 (de) 2017-05-24
WO2016032601A1 (en) 2016-03-03
MX2017000649A (es) 2017-04-27

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Owner name: WESTROCK PACKAGING SYSTEMS, LLC, GEORGIA

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