Carton, blank, and method of folding

Abstract

A carton defines a bottom wall, a first side wall coupled to the bottom wall, a second side wall disposed opposite the first side wall and coupled to the bottom wall, a first end wall coupled to both the bottom wall and first and second side walls, and a second end wall disposed opposite the first end wall and coupled to both the bottom wall and the first and second side walls. The carton is formed from a blank having a first side and a second side disposed opposite said first side. The first side defines the interior surface of the bottom wall and the interior and exterior surfaces of the first and second side walls and the first and second end walls.

Description

BACKGROUND1. Field[0001]The present invention relates to a carton, to a blank and method for forming the carton, and more particularly to a carton formed from a blank having a first side and a second side, the first side defining the interior surface of the carton's bottom wall and the interior and exterior surfaces of the carton's side and end walls.2. Description of Related Art[0002]Reusable plastic crates (RPCs) are widely-used in the grocery industry for transporting, storing, and distributing foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables. Advantages of RPCs include a stackable interlocking design, a “display ready” design that can significantly reduce stocking time, and a foldable design that reduces storage space and transport costs by allowing the containers to be folded when not in use. Disadvantages of RPCs include the risk of loss / theft and a relatively high cost resulting from the need to wash and sanitize the RPCs after each use and transport them to a facility for that purp...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a carton design for holding multiple articles. The carton has a bottom wall, side walls, and end walls. The carton is formed from a blank with a plurality of main panels hingedly connected together. The main panels include inner and outer side panels, as well as bottom panels. The blank can also have additional flaps and corner panels. The technical effects of this design include improved protection for the articles, a more stable carton structure, and a more efficient use of space.

Problems solved by technology

Disadvantages of RPCs include the risk of loss / theft and a relatively high cost resulting from the need to wash and sanitize the RPCs after each use and transport them to a facility for that purpose.

First, the carton 300 does not provide a smooth or visually clean interior as a result of the inwardly-folded stacking tabs and inner end flaps.

The irregularities in the interior surface of the carton 300 caused by these structures may also increase the risk of damage to the carton's contents.

These irregularities may also interfere with the visibility and / or clarity of any content printed on the interior side and end walls.

This configuration may be considered aesthetically unappealing and / or represent a missed opportunity to present branding or other promotional content to customers.

Finally, the configuration of the handles, which extend completely through the carton's end walls, may increase the risk of “finger poke” damage to the carton's contents.

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