Play box with multiple configuration capability

Abstract

A play box made of corrugated sheet material, comprising a plurality of body panels connected to one another by fold lines, a plurality of end panels, two of the plurality of end panels coupled to ends of each of the body panels, four of the end panels attached to opposite panels of the box, and having a shape governing a pitch of each end of the box. A plurality of connectors is attached to the end panels and the body panels permitting assembly of the box into multiple configurations.

Description

FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to a play box, preferably of cardboard, having the capability of being folded and attached in different configurations with labels that represent various articles. BACKGROUND [0002] Cardboard boxes have long been a favourite toy for young children. Invariably when large cardboard boxes are left in a house after a move or the purchase of large items such as television sets, young children begin to investigate the possibilities of converting these boxes into play items. Generally a large cardboard box is turned over and an entrance opening is carved in one end. Frequently, several such boxes are used in combination to provide a greater complexity and variety to such an assembly. The use of cardboard boxes by young children and the challenge of developing various types of assemblies stimulates the creativity and imagination. However, even though such boxes are popular and provide an ideal product for stimulating the creativity of a child, they...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is a play box made of corrugated sheet material that can be assembled into different configurations. It consists of body panels, end panels, and connectors that allow for the assembly of the box into different forms. The shape of the box is triangular, which allows for optional assembly of pitched ends. The connectors are tabs and slots that can be engaged with each other to connect the panels. The technical effect of this invention is a versatile and customizable play box that can be easily assembled into different forms."

Problems solved by technology

However, even though such boxes are popular and provide an ideal product for stimulating the creativity of a child, they have a number of practical problems.

Firstly, they are not easily stored and reused.

Secondly, such boxes are generally available in the house only during the rare occasions of a move or after the purchase of a large item.

Thirdly, there is a limitation to the multiplicity of configurations available for each cardboard box.

Cutting cardboard is dangerous as it is very easy to self-inflict serious cuts.

Finally, large cardboard boxes (as well as smaller ones) are often dirty and may entail a health hazard for younger children.

The origin of such boxes is often uncertain and, particularly in the present environment of potential bio-hazards, proper inspection of the box before use is mandatory.

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