Cardboard boxes and blanks used therein

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a cardboard box for packaging multiple articles and a blank for forming a carrier. The cardboard box includes multiple walls (12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24) defining the interior of the cardboard box. The cardboard box includes a handle flap (52) hinged to at least one of the multiple walls (18) along a flap fold line (55). The handle flap (52) has multiple parallel fold lines (57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b) extending transversely to the flap fold line (55).

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 984,965, filed March 4, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to cardboard boxes and blanks for forming cardboard boxes. More specifically, but not exclusively, this invention relates to a wrap-around carrier with an improved handle structure. Background Technology

[0003] In the packaging industry, cardboard boxes for carrying multiple items are known. Cardboard boxes are well-known in the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store, and access a set of items for consumption. For cost and environmental reasons, such cardboard boxes or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible and cause as little waste as possible to the materials formed therein. Further considerations include the strength of the cardboard box and its suitability for holding and transporting heavy items. It is desirable that the contents of the cardboard box be securely held within the box.

[0004] The expectation is to produce cardboard boxes from nestable blanks, which offers environmental and economic benefits and can help increase or maximize the number of cardboard box blanks that can be obtained from cardboard or other sheet materials with standard or fixed widths.

[0005] It is also expected that cardboard boxes can be transported in bags or sacks without tearing or otherwise damaging the integrity of the bags or other items inside.

[0006] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a handle structure for carrying cardboard boxes. It is desirable to provide a robust and sturdy handle, and it is also desirable to reduce the thickness of the material used to construct the cardboard box, or the thickness of the calipers.

[0007] This invention aims to provide improvements in the field of cardboard boxes, which are typically made of paperboard and the like. Summary of the Invention

[0008] A first aspect of the invention provides a cardboard box for packaging one or more articles. The cardboard box includes a plurality of walls defining an interior of the cardboard box. The cardboard box includes a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of walls along flap fold lines. The handle flap has a plurality of parallel fold lines extending transversely to the flap fold lines.

[0009] A second aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a cardboard box. The blank includes a plurality of plates defining an internal cavity. The blank includes a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates along flap fold lines. The handle flap has a plurality of parallel fold lines extending transversely to the flap fold lines.

[0010] Optionally, the plurality of parallel broken lines may include three or more parallel broken lines.

[0011] Optionally, each of the plurality of parallel broken lines is arranged approximately perpendicular to the lobed broken line.

[0012] Optionally, each of the plurality of parallel fold lines extends from the fold line toward the free edge of the handle fold.

[0013] Optionally, at least one of the plurality of parallel broken lines extends all the way to the free edge of the handle flap.

[0014] Optionally, the handle flap has a pair of opposing side edges, each of which is parallel to the plurality of parallel fold lines.

[0015] Optionally, at least one of the plurality of plates includes a dispenser plate defined by a pair of tear lines, wherein a handle flap is disposed between the pair of tear lines at a position spaced apart from the tear lines.

[0016] Optionally, the handle flaps are positioned in the middle between the tear lines.

[0017] Optionally, the lobes are oriented such that the imaginary extension of the lobes intersects the pair of tear lines.

[0018] Optionally, the imaginary extension of the lobed fold line is approximately perpendicular to the corresponding portion of the tear line to which the imaginary extension intersects.

[0019] Optionally, the handle lobes define a central axis that is substantially perpendicular to the extension of the lobes' fold lines, and wherein the plurality of parallel fold lines are arranged symmetrically about the central axis.

[0020] Optionally, one of the plurality of parallel broken lines extends collinearly with the central axis.

[0021] Optionally, the handle lobes define a central axis that is substantially perpendicular to the extension of the lobes' fold lines, and wherein the plurality of parallel fold lines include a first pair of fold lines disposed on opposite sides of the central axis at a position equidistant from the central axis, the first pair of fold lines being spaced apart from each other by a first distance.

[0022] Optionally, the plurality of parallel broken lines further include a second pair of broken lines disposed on opposite sides of the central axis at a position equidistant from the central axis, wherein the second pair of broken lines are spaced apart from each other by a second distance, the second distance being greater than the first distance.

[0023] Optionally, the length of each of the first fold lines is greater than that of each of the second fold lines.

[0024] Optionally, each of the first pair of fold lines extends from the fold line of the petal toward the free edge of the handle petal, and each of the first fold lines terminates not far from the free edge.

[0025] Optionally, the plurality of parallel broken lines further include a central broken line extending collinearly with the central axis.

[0026] Optionally, the central fold line extends from the fold line across the handle fold line to the free edge.

[0027] Optionally, the length of the central polyline is greater than that of each of the first polylines.

[0028] Optionally, the length of the fold line of the petal should not exceed the maximum width of the handle petal.

[0029] A third aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a cardboard box. The blank includes a handle flap and a plurality of plates defining an internal cavity. The handle flap is hinged to at least one of the plurality of plates. The handle flap includes a proximal portion and a pair of distal portions. The proximal portion is hinged to the at least one of the plurality of plates along a flap fold line. Each of the pair of distal portions is hinged to the proximal portion along a corresponding fold line of the pair of distal portions. The handle flap includes a plurality of additional fold lines extending transversely to the flap fold lines.

[0030] A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a cardboard box. The blank includes a handle flap and a plurality of plates defining an internal cavity. The handle flap is hinged to at least one of the plurality of plates. The handle flap includes a proximal portion and a pair of distal portions. The proximal portion is hinged to the at least one of the plurality of plates along a flap fold line. Each of the pair of distal portions is hinged to the proximal portion along a corresponding one of the pair of distal portion fold lines. Each of the distal portion fold lines extends substantially from a free edge of the handle flap. The pair of distal portion fold lines are arranged diverging relative to each other so as to diverge toward the flap fold line. The handle flap has at least one additional fold line extending substantially from a free edge toward the flap fold line.

[0031] A fifth aspect of the invention provides a package comprising a set of articles and a cardboard box. Each container in the set of articles has a generally circular cross-section. The cardboard box is disposed at least partially around the exterior of the set of articles. The cardboard box includes a plurality of boards and handle flaps. The handle flaps are hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of boards along flap fold lines. The handle flaps include a plurality of parallel fold lines extending transversely to the flap fold lines.

[0032] A sixth aspect of the invention provides a package comprising a set of containers and a carton. Each container in the set of containers has a generally circular cross-section. The carton is disposed at least partially around the exterior of the set of containers. The carton includes a plurality of boards and a handle flap. The handle flap is hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of boards. The handle flap includes a proximal portion and a pair of distal portions. The proximal portion is hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of boards along a flap fold line. Each of the pair of distal portions is hingedly connected to the proximal portion along a corresponding one of the pair of distal portion fold lines. The handle flap has a plurality of additional fold lines extending transversely to the flap fold lines.

[0033] Within the scope of this application, it is conceivable or intended to consider or employ, independently or in any combination thereof, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features, and alternatives set forth in the preceding paragraphs, claims, and / or the following description and drawings.

[0034] Features or elements described in connection with or relating to one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless incompatibility exists. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into or combined with any other embodiment disclosed herein, and may include features or elements extracted from said one embodiment to supplement or replace one or more features or elements of said other embodiments.

[0035] Features or combinations of features of the embodiments disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, features or combinations of features of the embodiments may be omitted from that embodiment. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a top plan view of a blank for forming a cardboard box according to the first embodiment; Figure 2 It is by Figure 1 A top perspective view of the cardboard box formed from the blank; Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank; Figure 4This is a top plan view of a portion of a blank for forming a cardboard box according to the second embodiment; and Figure 5 This is a top plan view of a portion of a blank for forming a cardboard box according to the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0037] This document discloses detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packaging, blanks, and cartons. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the invention can be practiced, and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention can be embodied. As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used in a broad sense to refer to embodiments used as illustrations, samples, models, or patterns. In practice, it will be understood that the packaging, blanks, and cartons described herein can be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show detail of particular parts. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in great detail to avoid obscuring this disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to employ the invention in various ways.

[0038] refer to Figure 1 A plan view of the blank 10 capable of forming a cardboard box or carrier 90 is shown, as follows. Figure 2 As shown, the cardboard box or carrier is used to contain and carry a set of main products, such as, but not limited to, beverage cans, hereinafter referred to as Item B, such as Figure 2 As shown in the figure. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one main product container or package.

[0039] In the embodiments detailed herein, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating various features of the invention, the terms "cardboard box" and "carrier" refer to container 90 used for engaging and carrying articles B (such as main product container B). It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to a variety of product containers B, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Other exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal bottles, glass bottles, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tinware, cups, jugs, bags, boxes, and the like.

[0040] The blank 10 is formed from a suitable substrate sheet. It will be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes a wide variety of foldable sheet materials, such as cardboard, corrugated cardboard, hardboard, plastics, combinations thereof, etc. It should be appreciated that, where appropriate, one or more blanks may be used, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

[0041] The packaging structure or carton 90 described herein may be formed from sheet material (such as cardboard) that may be made of or coated with multiple materials to increase its strength. An example of such sheet material is the tear-resistant NATRALOCK® cardboard manufactured by WestRock. It should be noted that tear-resistant material may be provided in more than one layer to help improve the tear resistance of the packaging. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different properties than another surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outwards from the finished packaging may be particularly smooth and may have a coating (such as a clay coating or other surface treatment) to provide good printability. On the other hand, the inward-facing surface of the sheet material may be provided with a coating, layer, treatment, or otherwise prepared to provide one or more of the following properties: tear resistance, good adhesiveness, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, blank 10 is configured to form a cardboard box or carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary article B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is an m×n matrix or array having two rows (m=2) and three columns (n=3); in the illustrated embodiment, two rows of three articles B are provided, and these articles B are 500 ml beverage cans. Alternatively, blank 10 may be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, quantities, and sizes of articles B and / or for packaging articles B in different arrangements or configurations, such as, but not limited to, fully enclosed cardboard boxes or basket carriers, where the articles B may be bottles or cans.

[0043] Turning Figure 1 The illustration shows a method for forming a cardboard box 90 according to a first embodiment (see figure). Figure 2 The blank 10 includes a plurality of main plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 include: a first base plate 12, a first corner plate 14, a first side plate 16, a top plate 18, a second side plate 20, a second corner plate 22, and a second base plate 24. The plurality of plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 can be arranged in a linear series, hinged one after another by corresponding fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, and 23.

[0044] In an alternative embodiment, the first corner plate 14 and the second corner plate 22 may be omitted, as may the broken lines 15 and 21.

[0045] The first corner plate 14 and the second corner plate 22 may be considered to form the lower portion of the corresponding one of the first side plate 16 or the second side plate 20, or alternatively form a portion of the first base plate 12 or the second base plate 24 to which they are hingedly connected.

[0046] The blank 10 is foldable to form as follows: Figure 2 The illustrated package 90. A first base plate 12 and a second base plate 24 may be joined to each other in an overlapping relationship to form a composite base wall 12 / 24 of the cardboard box 90. The blank 10 may include a complementary locking mechanism for securing the second base plate 24 to the first base plate 12. The second base plate 24 may include at least one first portion F of the complementary locking mechanism. The first base plate 12 may include at least one second portion M of the complementary locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the second base plate 24 includes a plurality of female tabs F defining an opening in the second base plate 24. The first base plate 12 includes a plurality of male tabs M, and the opening in the second base plate 24 is configured to receive a corresponding one of the male tabs M. The female tabs F are arranged to displace out of the second base plate 24 to form an opening and to support abutment against the male tabs M when they are received in the opening. In some embodiments, the complementary locking mechanism M / F may be omitted, and the first base plate 12 and the second base plate 24 may be secured to each other by other means, such as, but not limited to, adhesives or U-shaped staples.

[0047] Optionally, the first base plate 12 and the second base plate 24 may include at least one first aperture A1. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first base plate 12 and the second base plate 24 includes two first apertures A1. Optionally, the first base plate 12 and the second base plate 24 may include at least one second aperture A2. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first base plate 12 and the second base plate 24 includes one second aperture A2. The first apertures A1 and the second apertures A2 may be used to facilitate the construction of the cardboard box 90. Packaging machine components may engage with the first apertures A1 and the second apertures A2 to allow the plurality of plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 to be tightened around a set of articles B. The first apertures A1 and the second apertures A2 may also be used to facilitate the alignment of the first base plate 12 and the second base plate 24 relative to each other or to align a first portion of a complementary locking mechanism with a second portion of a complementary locking mechanism. The illustrated and described complementary locking mechanisms are entirely optional.

[0048] The blank 10 may include at least one heel engagement structure N for engaging with the heel or lower portion of the article B. Figure 1 The blank 10 illustrated includes six heel joint structures N, each provided for joining a corresponding article B. Each of the heel joint structures N is substantially similar in construction and will be described with reference to the heel joint structure N disposed in the first side plate 16.

[0049] The heel joint structure N may include an opening. This opening is partially defined by a heel orifice A3 and partially by a heel tab 42. The heel tab 42 is hinged to the first base plate via a fold line 43. The heel tab 42 is stamped from the first corner plate 14.

[0050] The broken line 43 interrupts the broken line 13 that hinges the first base plate 12 to the first corner plate 14. The broken line 43 may be non-linear; in the illustrated embodiment, the broken line 43 is curved or arc-shaped, and in other embodiments, it may be formed by at least two linear broken lines that are arranged divergently relative to each other and connected to each other.

[0051] The heel tab 42 may include a pair of divergently arranged fold lines 45a, 45b, which may define a foldable corner portion of the heel tab 42.

[0052] The top plate 18 includes a handle structure H. The handle structure H includes at least one foldable tab 52. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of foldable finger-like tabs 52.

[0053] The pair of finger-shaped tabs 52 are spaced apart from each other. Each finger-shaped tab 52 can be arranged to align with the gaps or openings between a group of four adjacent items B within the cardboard box 90.

[0054] Each finger-shaped tab 52 is hinged to the top plate 18 via a first fold line 55 and is partially defined by a cutting line or dividing line 51. The cutting line 51 may be substantially semi-circular in shape. The cutting line or dividing line 51 includes opposing ends disposed near the opposing ends of the first fold line 55. The end portions of the cutting line or dividing line 51 may be arcuate or curved. The curved end portions of the dividing line 51 are arranged to be connected to or continuous with the first fold line 55. The first fold line 55 includes a length dimension L1, wherein the length dimension L1 may be arranged to be substantially equal to or less than the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 52. For example, the difference between the length dimension L1 and the width dimension W1 may be less than or equal to 3 mm, and in some embodiments may be approximately 2 mm.

[0055] The dividing line 51 may include a pair of linear segments 51a, 51b that at least partially define the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 52 (in Figure 3(Best shown in the diagram). Linear segments 51a, 51b may extend contiguously from each curved end portion near the first broken line 55. The pair of linear segments 51a, 51b may be connected to each other by curved segments arranged to form continuous cutting lines or dividing lines 51 from opposite ends of the first broken line 55. In some embodiments, the curved segments may be arcuate; in other embodiments, they may be a combination of linear and / or arcuate portions, for example, they may include two or more linear portions arranged divergently relative to each other, and an arcuate portion disposed therebetween.

[0056] Straight or linear dividing segments 51a, 51b are optional, but in some embodiments they may be provided to increase handle strength. Straight dividing segments 51a, 51b may be replaced by dividing segments of other shapes or configurations, such as curved or inclined dividing segments that converge toward the first fold line or petal fold line 55.

[0057] Each finger-shaped tab 52 includes a second fold line 61 that extends from the first fold line 55 across the tab 52 along its height H1 to its opposite free edge. The second fold line 61 may be perpendicular to the first fold line 55. The second fold line 61 may bisect the tab 52. The second fold line 61 may bisect the first fold line 55. In some embodiments, the second fold line 61 may extend from a location spaced apart from the first fold line 55 and / or may terminate not far from the opposite free edge E1. In some other embodiments, the second fold line 61 may be arranged laterally to the first fold line 55 and inclined relative to it. In embodiments where the second fold line 61 is inclined to the first fold line 55, the second fold line 61 may not bisect the tab 52 or the first fold line 55.

[0058] Each finger-shaped tab 52 may include a pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b. The pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b are arranged divergently relative to each other. The pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b converge to define a vertex, which may be located at or near the end of the second fold line 61 near the free edge of the tab 52. Each of the pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b extends to a corresponding one of the curved end portions of the dividing line 51. In this way, the pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b defines a "V"-shaped fold line extending across the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 52.

[0059] Each finger-shaped protrusion 52 may include additional folds extending from the first fold 55. These additional folds may extend toward the free edge of the finger-shaped protrusion 52 and / or toward one of the pair of third folds 53a, 53b.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, four zigzag lines 57a, 59a, 57b, and 59b extend from the first zigzag line 55. Zigzag lines 57a, 59a, 57b, and 59b partially extend across the finger-shaped tab 52. Zigzag lines 57a, 59a, 57b, and 59b partially extend between the first zigzag line 55 and a corresponding one of the pair of third zigzag lines 53a and 53b.

[0061] Broken lines 57a, 59a, 57b, and 59b can be located on opposite sides of the second broken line 61 and can be arranged parallel to each other. Broken lines 57a, 59a, 57b, and 59b can be arranged parallel to the second broken line 61.

[0062] Two broken lines 57a and 59a can be set on the first side of the second broken line 61; two broken lines 57b and 59b can be set on the second side of the second broken line 61.

[0063] The lengths of the inner folds 59a and 59b, which are set to be closer to the second fold 61, can be longer than those of the outer folds 57a and 57b.

[0064] The first of the finger tabs 52 is hinged to the top plate 18 in a manner opposite to the second of the finger tabs 52.

[0065] The handle arrangement can be used to distribute the load force through the load-bearing device 90. The finger-shaped tabs 52 can be used as a mandrel to limit the deformation of the top plate 18 under load.

[0066] The second zigzag line 61 and zigzag lines 57a, 59a, 57b, and 59b can guide the load force across or perpendicular to the line formed by... Figure 1 The directional arrow GR in the image indicates the direction of the texture or paper machine.

[0067] In use, the top plate 18 can be deformed or folded in a direction substantially parallel to the tubular axis of the cardboard box 90, that is, perpendicular to the grain or paper machine direction GR. This increases the rigidity and / or strength of the cardboard box 90.

[0068] The second fold line 61 and fold lines 57a, 59a, 57b, 59b may have the following function: in the region of the top plate 18 near the end of the first fold line 55 and the opposite end of the dividing line 51, reduce the load force or stress or alleviate the concentration of those forces or stresses.

[0069] The top plate 18 may include a removable portion D in the form of a tear strip. The removable portion D is defined by a first tear line or dividing line 62a and a second tear line or dividing line 62b. The first dividing line 62a and the second dividing line 62b extend generally longitudinally across the top plate 18. The second dividing line 62b is laterally spaced from the first dividing line 62a. Tear initiation devices in the form of pull tabs 60a, 60b may be provided at each end of the tear strip. The pull tabs 60a, 60b are hinged to the tear strip by corresponding fold lines 63a, 63b and may be partially defined by weakening lines that are easier to tear than the first dividing line 62a and the second dividing line 62b; that is, these weakening lines provide less tear resistance than the first dividing line 62a and the second dividing line 62b.

[0070] The removable part D allows easy access to its contents (item B) when removing the cardboard box 90.

[0071] Each of plates 12, 16, 18, 20, and 24 has a pair of cutouts or recesses. These cutouts are defined in the opposite end edges of the blank 10. These cutouts include full, primary cutouts 70, 70a, and 70c, and partial or secondary cutouts 70b.

[0072] A first cutout 70 is defined approximately midway along each of the opposite end edges of the top plate 18. A second cutout 70a is defined in each end edge of the first side plate 16. A third cutout 70c is defined in each end edge of the second side plate 20.

[0073] A partial or secondary excision 70b is defined in each of the opposite end edges of the first base plate 12 and the second base plate 24.

[0074] As a result, the blank 10 is provided with four tabs 72, 72a, 72b, 72c along any of its longitudinal edges, each tab being inserted between adjacent tabs in the cutouts 70, 70a, 70b, 70c.

[0075] like Figure 1 As illustrated, the first upper protrusion 72 is sandwiched and defined by adjacent first cutouts 70 and third cutouts 70c. The second upper protrusion 72a is sandwiched and defined by the first cutout 70 and the second cutout 70a. The first lower protrusion 72b is sandwiched and defined by the first of the second cutouts 70a and the partial cutouts 70b that are defined in the first base plate 12. The second lower protrusion 72c is sandwiched and defined by the second of the third cutouts 70c and the partial cutouts 70b that are defined in the second base plate 24.

[0076] The first upper protrusion 72 is positioned across the adjacent broken line 19. The second upper protrusion 72a is positioned across the adjacent broken line 17.

[0077] The first lower protrusion 72b is positioned across adjacent broken lines 13 and 15. The second lower protrusion 72c is positioned across adjacent broken lines 21 and 23.

[0078] The complete or main cutouts 70, 70a, 70c are capable of accommodating one of the appropriately sized tabs 72, 72a, 72c of similar or adjacently arranged blanks.

[0079] Each of the partial or secondary cutouts 70b is with a subsequent or preceding second blank (not shown) (the second blank is with Figure 1 The blank 10 shown in the figure (with end-to-end arrangement) has a partial or secondary cutout 70b that cooperates to provide a gap or cutout capable of accommodating appropriately sized tabs 72, 72a, 72b, 72c of an adjacent third blank (not shown), which cooperates with... Figure 1 The blanks 10 are arranged side by side (optionally, at least a portion of the longitudinal edge of the blank 10 may share or have common features with at least a portion of the longitudinal edge of the third blank). A first partial cutout 70b from the first blank 10 and a second partial cutout 70b from the second blank are required to accommodate the individual tabs 72, 72a, 72b, 72c of the third blank. In this way, the two partial cutouts 70b can be considered to form a complete cutout.

[0080] Each of the first upper tab 72 and the second upper tab 72a forms or helps to form an end retaining structure to prevent the contents of the cardboard box 90 from dislodging from the cardboard box 90 when the blank 10 is erected into the cardboard box 90. Each of the first upper tab 72 and the second upper tab 72a may be provided with a cutting line and a fold line to form a top joining structure when it is folded along the fold line.

[0081] More specifically, each upper tab 72, 72a may include anchoring portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b that are hingedly connected to adjacent side plates 16, 20 along fold lines 25a, 35b, 39a, 39b. Each upper tab 72, 72a may include corner plate portions 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b that are hingedly connected to anchoring portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b along fold lines 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b.

[0082] Each upper tab 72, 72a may include web portions 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b, which are hingedly connected to corner plate portions 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b along extensions 29a, 29b, 35a, 35b of a corresponding line among fold lines 17, 19. Each upper tab 72, 72a may include cover portions 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b integrally formed with the top plate 18. Each web portion 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b is hingedly connected to the corresponding cover portion 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b via fold lines 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b.

[0083] The optional orifice A4 may be punched partially from the top plate 18, partially from the first side plate 16 or the second side plate 20, and partially from the upper protrusions 72, 72a. The orifice A4 defines the endpoint of each of the following fold lines: 17, 19; 29a, 29b, 35a, 35b; 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b; 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b; 25a, 35b, 39a, 39b, and is located at the apex of the aforementioned fold lines.

[0084] The folding of each upper tab 72, 72a is achieved during the uprighting of the cardboard box. To form a top-joining structure from each upper tab 72, 72a, the anchoring portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b are folded approximately 180 degrees to make face contact with the inner surfaces of the adjacent side panels 16, 20. The anchoring portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b are held in the folded position by one of the packaged items B pressing against the adjacent side panels 16, 20. The folding of the anchoring portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b causes the corner portions 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b to fold outwards around fold lines 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b, such that the corner portions 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b extend outwards along the sidewall of the packaged item B from fold lines 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b. Simultaneously, the web portions 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b are folded downwards along fold lines 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b and thus brought to a folded position where they extend between the fold lines 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b and the outer edges of the corner portions 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b. The completed top joint structure is thus achieved in... Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure tightly joined to the top of an item B.

[0085] Each lower tab 72b, 72c is used to provide sufficient material to define the adjacent, most distal heel opening A3 therein. More specifically, the heel opening A3 adjacent to each lower tab 72b, 72c is positioned such that sufficient material surrounds the heel opening A3 even when it extends into the lower tab 72b, 72c. During the erection and packaging of the article B, the blank 10 is manipulated such that each heel opening A3 receives the bottom of the corresponding article B to hold the article B within the cardboard box 90. The heel tab 42 is also folded to help hold the article B.

[0086] Each lower tab 72b, 72c may include a deformable structure G forming a foldable corner area of ​​the cardboard box 90. The deformable structure G is arranged in a zigzag pattern and is adapted to remove sharp corners or edges of the cardboard box 90. This can be advantageous when the cardboard box 90 is transported or carried in a carrier bag (particularly, but not exclusively, a carrier bag formed of plastic, paper, or similar sheet material). The deformable structure G prevents or reduces the likelihood of the cardboard box 90 being punctured, torn, or otherwise perforated in the material forming the carrier bag. It will be understood that any puncture in the carrier bag will impair the carrier bag's load-bearing capacity, and once damaged, the tear is likely to propagate, potentially causing the cardboard box 90 or other items contained in the carrier bag to fall out and thus potentially damage them.

[0087] Each deformable structure G is substantially similar in construction and will be set by reference. Figure 1 The deformable structure G in one of the second lower tabs 72c shown is described. The second lower tab 72c is formed in part by the second side plate 20, in part by the optional second corner plate 22, and in part by the second base plate 24.

[0088] The deformable structure G may include a release tab 88, which is formed partly by the second side plate 20 and partly by the second corner plate 22. In embodiments in which the first corner plate 14 or the second corner plate 22 is omitted, the release tab 88 may be formed partly by the second side plate 20 and partly by the second base plate 24.

[0089] The release tab 88 is partially defined by a first fold line 87 provided in the second side plate 20 and partially by a second fold line 91 provided in the second corner plate 22.

[0090] The first fold line 87 is arranged diverging from the second fold line 91. The first fold line 87 and the second fold line 91 diverge toward the longitudinal or free side edge of the blank 10. The first fold line 87 and the second fold line 91 include a first end disposed close to each other and a second end disposed away from each other.

[0091] The release tab 88 is partially defined by a cutting line or divisible line 93. The cutting line 93 may extend from a first end of the first fold line 87 toward a first end of the second fold line 91. The cutting line 93 may extend substantially between the first and proximal ends of the first fold line 87 and the first and proximal ends of the second fold line 91. The cutting line 93 may connect the first end of the first fold line 87 to the first end of the second fold line 91 for connection thereto. The cutting line 93 may be arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal or free-side edge of the second lower tab 72c. The shape of the release tab 88 may be substantially trapezoidal.

[0092] The extension or portion of the fold 21 defines a third fold 89 that substantially bisects the release tab 88. In other embodiments, the third fold 89 may be off-center, such that the release tab 88 is asymmetrical relative to the third fold 89.

[0093] The release tab 88 may include a first cutout or recess R1 punched from its longitudinal or free side edge. Figure 1 In this embodiment, the recess R1 is substantially triangular to define the free edge of the "V" shape. The recess R1 interrupts the third fold line 89. The third fold line 89 terminates at the apex of the "V" shape. The recess R1 removes material across the third fold line 89 to reduce the prominence of the third fold line 89 near the free edge of the second lower tab 72c. The recess R1 provides a trimmed edge for the third fold line 89.

[0094] The release tab 88 is positioned between the longitudinal or free side edge of the second lower tab 72c and the adjacent end heel opening A3.

[0095] The deformable structure G may include a web structure comprising a pair of lobes 84, 86. The first lobe 84 is hinged to the second side plate 20 via a fourth fold line 83. The fourth fold line 83 may be collinear with the longitudinal free edge of the third main cutout 70c. The second lobe 86 is hinged to the first lobe 84 via a fifth fold line 85. The fifth fold line 83 is arranged divergently relative to the fourth fold line 83. The first lobe 84 is substantially triangular in shape. The second lobe 86 is hinged to a release tab 88 via a first fold line 87. The fifth fold line 83 is arranged divergently relative to the first fold line 87. The second lobe 86 is substantially triangular in shape.

[0096] The first lobe 84 and the second lobe 86 interconnect the release tab 88 to the second side plate 20.

[0097] The deformable structure G allows the portion of the second lower tab 72c provided by the second side plate 20 (and, when provided, by an optional second corner plate 22) to fold or deform around the end of the last adjacent article B, so that the free edge of said portion of the second lower tab 72c is closer to said last article B. This reduces the stiffness of the outer region of said portion of the second lower tab 72c, making it more easily deformable. In this way, the likelihood of the second lower tab 72c puncturing the wall of the carrier bag when positioned inside during loading or carrying of the carrier bag is reduced. This reduces the practice of "double-packing" by placing the first carrier bag inside the second carrier bag to create a double-walled structure.

[0098] The deformable structure G may include a second cutout or recess R2 stamped from its longitudinal or free side edge. Figure 1 In one embodiment, the second recess R2 is substantially triangular to define the free edge portion of the "V" shape. The second recess R2 interrupts the fold 23 connecting the second base plate 24 to the second corner plate 22. The fold 23 terminates at the apex of the "V" shape. The second recess R2 removes material across the fold 23 to reduce the protrusion of the fold 23 near the free edge of the second lower tab 72c. The second recess R2 provides a trimmed edge for the fold 23.

[0099] Steering Figure 2 The cardboard box 90 illustrated herein can be formed in a straight-line machine through a series of sequential folding operations, eliminating the need to rotate or reverse the cardboard box 90 to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and can be modified according to specific manufacturing requirements.

[0100] Assemble a set of items B; in Figure 2 In the embodiment illustrated, six items B are arranged in a 2×3 array. The top plate 18 of the blank 10 is positioned above the group of items B to provide the top wall 18 of the cardboard box 90.

[0101] The first side panel 16 and the second side panel 20 are folded around the opposite sides of the group of items B relative to the top panel 18 around fold lines 17 and 19, respectively, so that they are arranged around the opposite sides of the group of items B, thereby forming the first side wall 16 and the second side wall 20 of the cardboard box 90.

[0102] While the first side plate 16 and the second side plate 20 are folded relative to the top plate 18, the anchoring portions 26a, 26b, 36a, and 36 can be folded to form a face contact relationship with a corresponding one of the first side plate 16 and the second side plate 20 to form the top engagement structure described above.

[0103] Alternatively, a top joining structure can be formed after the cardboard box 90 is erected into a tubular form. The anchoring portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36 can be closed between the respective one of the first side plate 16 and the second side plate 20 to which they are hinged and the adjacent article B.

[0104] The first corner plate 14 and the second corner plate 22 are folded around the heel or lower part of the adjacent item B, respectively, around the fold lines 15 and 21, relative to one of the first side plate 16 and the second side plate 20.

[0105] Before folding the first corner plate 14 and the second corner plate 22 relative to one of the first side plate 16 and the second side plate 20, the heel tab 42 can be folded around the fold line 43 to form the plane of the first corner plate 14 and the second corner plate 22.

[0106] The first base plate 12 is folded around fold line 13 to be positioned adjacent to the base of the group of articles B. Then, the second base plate 24 is folded around fold line 23 to be at least partially overlapped with the first base plate 12. In doing so, each of the heel tabs 42 can engage with the base of the corresponding article B.

[0107] The first base plate 12 and the second base plate 24 are fixed together. Each of the male tabs M is displaced inward from the plane of the second base plate 24. In doing so, each of the female tabs F is displaced inward, thereby creating a corresponding opening in the first base plate 12. The male tabs M are received in their respective openings to lock the first base plate 12 and the second base plate 24 together. In this way, a tubular structure is formed around the group of articles B.

[0108] Figure 2 The image shows an assembled cardboard box 90. A handle structure H is positioned between the first tear line 62a and the second tear line 62b. The tab 52 is shown in its initial or unfurled state.

[0109] Now for reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 Additional embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated. In the second and third illustrated embodiments, similar numbers have been used to denote similar parts where possible, except that the prefixes "100" and "200" have been added to indicate that these features belong to the second and third embodiments, respectively. These additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment, and therefore will only be described in detail with respect to the first embodiment. Figures 1 to 3 The differences between the embodiments illustrated herein.

[0110] refer to Figure 4The illustration shows a portion of a blank 110 for forming a cardboard box (not shown) according to a second embodiment. The blank 110 includes a plate 118 for forming a handle plate. The handle plate 118 includes a handle structure H. The handle structure H includes at least one foldable tab 152.

[0111] The tab 152 is hinged to the handle plate 118 via a first fold line or flap fold line 155 and is partially defined by a cutting line or dividing line 151. The cutting line 151 may be substantially semi-circular in shape. The cutting line or dividing line 151 includes opposing ends located near the opposing ends of the first fold line 155. The end portions of the cutting line or dividing line 151 may be arcuate or curved. The curved end portions of the dividing line 151 are arranged to be connected to or continuous with the first fold line 155. The first fold line 155 includes a length dimension L1, which may be arranged to be substantially equal to or less than the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 152. For example, the difference between the length dimension L1 and the width dimension W1 may be less than or equal to 3 mm, and in some embodiments may be approximately 2 mm.

[0112] Optionally, the dividing line 151 may include a pair of linear segments 151a, 151b that at least partially define the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 152. The optional linear segments 151a, 151b may extend in a partially connected manner from near each curved end of the first broken line 155. The pair of linear segments 151a, 151b may be connected to each other by curved segments arranged to form a continuous cutting line or dividing line 151 from opposite ends of the first broken line 155. The straight dividing line segments 151a, 151b may be replaced by dividing line segments of other shapes or configurations.

[0113] In some embodiments, the curved segment may be arc-shaped; in other embodiments, it may be a combination of linear and / or arc-shaped portions, for example, it may include two or more linear portions arranged divergently relative to each other, and an arc-shaped portion disposed therebetween.

[0114] The tab 152 includes a second or central fold line 161 that extends from the free edge E1 of the tab 152 (opposite to the hinged edge defined by the first fold line 155) across the first fold line 155, and optionally extends across the first fold line 155 to terminate beyond the first fold line 155. In some embodiments, the second fold line 161 terminates in a handle plate 118 located outside the tab 152. In some embodiments, the second fold line 161 terminates at or on the first fold line 155. In still other embodiments, the second fold line 161 terminates before the first fold line 155, such that the terminal portion is located within the tab 152, that is, the terminal portion is spaced apart from the first fold line 155.

[0115] The second fold line 161 can be perpendicular to the first fold line 155. The second fold line 161 can bisect the protrusion 152. The second fold line 161 can bisect the first fold line 155.

[0116] The tab 152 may include a pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b. The pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b are arranged divergently relative to each other. The pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b converge to define a vertex, which may be located at or near the end of the second fold line 161 near the free edge E1 of the tab 152. Each of the pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b extends to the corresponding curved end portion of the dividing line 151. In this way, the pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b defines a "V"-shaped fold line extending across the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 152.

[0117] The tab 152 may include additional folds extending across the first fold 155. These additional folds may extend from a location outside the tab 152. The boundary of the tab 152 is defined by the first fold 155 and the dividing line 151. These additional folds may extend toward the free edge E1 of the tab 152 and / or toward one of the pair of third folds 153a, 153b. In other embodiments, either of these additional folds may include a terminal portion located on the first fold 155. In still other embodiments, both terminals of either of these additional folds may be located within and spaced apart from the boundary of the tab 152. Optionally, the arrangement of these additional folds is symmetrical (mirror symmetrical) about the central fold 161.

[0118] In the illustrated embodiment, six zigzag lines 157a, 159a, 165a, 157b, 159b, and 165b extend across the first zigzag line 155. Zigzag lines 157a, 159a, 165a, 157b, 159b, and 165b partially extend across the tab 152. Zigzag lines 157a, 159a, 165a, 157b, 159b, and 165b extend from a first end located outside the tab 152 to a second end disposed within the boundary of the tab 152. The second end may be spaced apart from a corresponding one of the pair of third zigzag lines 153a and 153b.

[0119] Broken lines 157a, 159a, 165a, 157b, 159b, and 165b can be located on opposite sides of the second broken line 161 and can be arranged parallel to each other. Broken lines 157a, 159a, 165a, 157b, 159b, and 165b can be arranged parallel to the second broken line 161.

[0120] Three broken lines 157a, 159a, and 165a can be set on the first side of the second broken line 161; three broken lines 157b, 159b, and 165b can be set on the second side of the second broken line 161.

[0121] The lengths of the inner fold lines 165a and 165b, which are set to be closest to the second fold line 161, can be longer than the outer fold lines 157a and 157b and / or the intermediate fold lines 159a and 159b. The lengths of the intermediate fold lines 159a and 159b can be longer than the outer fold lines 157a and 157b.

[0122] The handle structure can be used to distribute the load force through the load-bearing device.

[0123] refer to Figure 5 The illustration shows a portion of a blank 210 for forming a cardboard box (not shown) according to a third embodiment. The blank 210 includes a plate 218 for forming a handle plate. The handle plate 218 includes a handle structure H. The handle structure H includes at least one foldable tab 252.

[0124] The tab 252 is hinged to the handle plate 218 via a first fold line or flap fold line 255 and is partially defined by a cutting line or dividing line 251. The boundary of the tab 252 is defined by the first fold line 255 and the dividing line 251. The cutting line 251 may be substantially semi-circular in shape. The cutting line or dividing line 251 includes opposing ends disposed near the opposing ends of the first fold line 255. The end portions of the cutting line or dividing line 251 may be arcuate or curved. The curved end portions of the dividing line 251 are arranged to be connected to or continuous with the first fold line 255. The first fold line 255 includes a length dimension L1, which may be arranged to be substantially equal to or less than the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 252. For example, the difference between the length dimension L1 and the width dimension W1 may be less than or equal to 3 mm, and in some embodiments may be approximately 2 mm.

[0125] Optionally, the dividing line 251 may include a pair of linear segments 251a, 251b that at least partially define the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 252. The optional linear segments 251a, 251b may extend in a partially connected manner from near each curved end of the first broken line 255. The pair of linear segments 251a, 251b may be connected to each other by curved segments arranged to form a continuous cutting line or dividing line 251 from opposite ends of the first broken line 255. The straight dividing line segments 251a, 251b may be replaced by dividing line segments of other shapes or configurations.

[0126] In some embodiments, the curved segment may be arc-shaped; in other embodiments, it may be a combination of linear and arc-shaped portions, for example, it may include two or more linear portions arranged divergently relative to each other, and an arc-shaped portion disposed therebetween.

[0127] The tab 252 includes a second or central fold line 261 extending from a location spaced apart from a free edge E1 of the tab 252, opposite a hinged edge defined by a first fold line 255. The second fold line 261 may extend across the tab 252 along a height H1. The second fold line 261 terminates at a location on the first fold line 255. In some embodiments, the second fold line 261 may extend beyond the first fold line 255 and may terminate in a handle plate 218 located outside the tab 252. In still other embodiments, the second fold line 261 may terminate before the first fold line 255, such that a proximal end portion is located within the tab 252, that is, a proximal end portion is spaced apart from the first fold line 255. A distal end portion may be located at the free edge E1.

[0128] The second fold line 261 can be perpendicular to the first fold line 255. The second fold line 261 can bisect the protrusion 252. The second fold line 261 can bisect the first fold line 255.

[0129] The tab 252 may include a pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b. The pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b are arranged divergently relative to each other. The pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b converge to define a vertex, which may be located at or near the end of the second fold line 261 near the free edge E1 of the tab 252. Each of the pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b extends to the corresponding curved end portion of the dividing line 251. In this way, the pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b define a "V"-shaped fold line extending across the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 252.

[0130] The tab 252 may include additional folds extending from or across the first fold 255. These additional folds may extend toward the free edge E1 of the tab 252 and / or toward one of the pair of third folds 253a, 253b. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, each of these additional folds includes a terminal portion located on the first fold 255. In still other embodiments, the proximal terminal portion of any of these additional folds may be located outside or inside the boundary of the tab 252 and may be spaced apart from the first fold 255. Optionally, the arrangement of these additional folds is symmetrical (mirror symmetrical) about the central fold 261.

[0131] In the illustrated embodiment, four zigzag lines 257a, 259a, 257b, and 259b are disposed within the tab 252. Zigzag lines 257a, 259a, 257b, and 259b partially extend across the tab 252. Zigzag lines 257a, 259a, 257b, and 259b extend from their respective proximal ends (located on the first zigzag line 255) to their second distal ends. The distal ends may be spaced apart from a corresponding one of the pair of third zigzag lines 253a and 253b.

[0132] In the illustrated embodiment, these additional broken lines 257a, 259a, 257b, 259b are linear. In other embodiments, the additional broken lines 257a, 259a, 257b, 259b may be non-linear or curved.

[0133] In the illustrated embodiment, the additional broken lines 257a, 259a, 257b, and 259b are oriented at an angle relative to the central broken line 261.

[0134] In the illustrated embodiment, the additional broken lines 257a, 259a, 257b, and 259b are oriented at an angle relative to the first broken line 255.

[0135] Broken lines 257a, 259a, 257b, and 259b can be located on the opposite side of the second broken line 261. Broken lines 257a, 259a, 257b, and 259b are arranged divergently relative to the second broken line 261.

[0136] Two broken lines 257a and 259a can be set on the first side of the second broken line 261; two broken lines 257b and 259b can be set on the second side of the second broken line 261.

[0137] The inner fold lines 259a and 259b, which are closest to the second fold line 261, are arranged diverging from each other, and their length may be longer than that of the outer fold lines 257a and 257b. The outer fold lines 257a and 257b are arranged diverging from each other.

[0138] In the illustrated embodiment, the first inner fold line 259a is arranged substantially parallel to the first outer fold line 257a. In other embodiments, the first inner fold line 259a and the first outer fold line 257a may be non-parallel.

[0139] In the illustrated embodiment, the second inner fold line 259b is arranged substantially parallel to the second outer fold line 257b. In other embodiments, the second inner fold line 259b and the second outer fold line 257b may be non-parallel.

[0140] This disclosure provides a cardboard box blank 10; 110; 210, which includes a plurality of plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24; 118; 218 for defining the interior of a cardboard box 90, and at least one 18; 110 is hinged to the plurality of plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24; 118; 218 along a leaf fold line 55; 155; 255. 8; 218 handle petals 52; 152; 252, wherein the handle petals 52; 152; 252 have multiple parallel broken lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 259b, 257b.

[0141] The multiple parallel broken lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 259b, 257b may include three or more parallel broken lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b.

[0142] The multiple parallel broken lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b can be set approximately perpendicular to the petal broken line 55; 155.

[0143] The multiple parallel broken lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 259b, 257b extend from the lobed broken lines 55; 155; 255 toward the free edge E1 of the handle lobes 52; 152; 252.

[0144] At least one of the multiple parallel broken lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 259b, 257b, 61; 161; 261 extends to the free edge E1.

[0145] The handle flaps 52; 152; 252 may have a pair of opposing side edges 51a, 51b; 151a, 151b; 251a, 251b, which are parallel to at least one of the plurality of parallel broken lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 259b, 257b.

[0146] At least one 18 of the plurality of plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 includes a distribution plate D defined by a pair of tear lines 62a, 62b, wherein a handle flap 52 is disposed between the pair of tear lines 62a, 62b and at a position spaced apart from these tear lines 62a, 62b. In normal use, at least one 18 of the plurality of plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 may be a top plate 18.

[0147] The handle flap 52 can be positioned in the middle between the tear lines 62a and 62b.

[0148] The lobular fold 55 can be set in a certain orientation such that the imaginary extension x-x' of the lobular fold 55 intersects with the pair of tear lines 62a, 62b.

[0149] The imaginary extension x-x' of the petal fold line 55 is approximately perpendicular to the corresponding portions of the tear lines 62a and 62b that intersect with the imaginary extension x-x'.

[0150] Handle lobes 52; 152; 252 define a central axis y-y' that extends substantially perpendicularly to the lobe fold lines 55; 155; 255. The plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 259b, 257b can be symmetrically arranged about the central axis y-y'. The plurality of parallel broken lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 259b, 257b may include first paired broken lines 59a, 59b; 165a, 165b, which are arranged on opposite sides of the central axis y-y' at positions equidistant from the central axis y-y', and wherein the first paired broken lines 59a, 59b; 165a, 165b are arranged at a first distance D1 from each other.

[0151] One of the multiple parallel broken lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 259b, 257b, broken line 61; 161 extends collinearly with the central axis y-y'.

[0152] The plurality of parallel broken lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 259b, 257b may further include second broken lines 57a, 57b; 159a, 159b, which are arranged on opposite sides of the central axis y-y' at positions equidistant from the central axis y-y', and wherein the second broken lines 57a, 57b; 159a, 159b are arranged at a second distance D2 from each other, and wherein the second distance D2 is greater than the first distance D1.

[0153] The plurality of parallel broken lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 259b, 257b may further include a third pair of broken lines 157a, 157b, which are arranged on opposite sides of the central axis y-y' at a position equidistant from the central axis y-y', and wherein the third broken lines 157a, 157b are arranged at a third distance D3 from each other, and wherein the third distance D3 is greater than the second distance D2.

[0154] The length of each of the first fold lines 59a, 59b; 165a, 165b; 259a, 259b is greater than that of each of the second fold lines 57a, 57b; 159a, 159b; 257a, 257b.

[0155] The first pair of fold lines 59a, 59b; 259a, 259b each extend from the fold line 55; 255 toward the free edge E1 of the handle fold 52; 252, and wherein the first pair of fold lines 59a, 59b; 259a, 259b terminate not far from the free edge E1.

[0156] The handle structure H further includes central broken lines 61; 161; 261 extending collinearly with the central axis y-y'.

[0157] The central fold lines 61; 161; 261 extend at least from the fold lines 55; 155; 255 to the free edge E1.

[0158] The lengths of the central broken lines 61, 161, and 261 are greater than each of the first pair of broken lines 59a, 59b, 165a, 165b, 259a, and 259b.

[0159] The length L1 of the fold lines 55; 155; 255 is not greater than the maximum width W1 of the handle fold lines 52; 152; 252.

[0160] This disclosure also provides a cardboard box 90 for packaging article B. The cardboard box 90 is formed from a blank 10, which can be nested with the same blanks that each form the cardboard box 90.

[0161] This disclosure provides blanks 10, 110, and 210 for forming a cardboard box 90, the blanks including a plurality of plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24, 118, and 218 for defining an internal cavity, and handle flaps 52, 152, and 252 hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates 18, 118, and 218. The handle flaps 52, 152, and 252 include proximal portions 66, 166, and 266 that are hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of plates 18, 118, and 218 along flap fold lines 55, 155, and 255. Handle flaps 52; 152; 252 include a pair of distal portions 67, 68; 167, 168; 267, 268, which are hinged to proximal portions 66; 166; 266 along a pair of distal portion fold lines 53a, 53b; 153a, 153b; 253a, 253b, respectively. Handle flaps 52; 152; 252 have multiple additional fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a; 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 261, 259b, 257b.

[0162] This disclosure further provides blanks 10; 110; 210 for forming a cardboard box 90, the blanks including a plurality of plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24; 118; 218 for defining an internal cavity, and handle flaps 52; 152; 252 hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates 18; 118; 218. The handle flaps 52; 152; 252 include proximal portions 66; 166; 266 that are hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of plates 18; 118; 218 along flap fold lines 55; 155; 255. Handle flaps 52; 152; 252 include a pair of distal portions 67, 68; 167, 168; 267, 268, which are hinged to proximal portions 66; 166; 266 along a pair of distal portion fold lines 53a, 53b; 153a, 153b; 253a, 253b, respectively. The distal portion fold lines 53a, 53b; 153a, 153b; 253a, 253b extend substantially divergently from the free edge E1 of the handle flaps 52; 152; 252 toward the flap fold line 55; 155; 255. The handle flaps 52; 152; 252 have at least one additional fold line 61; 161; 261 extending substantially from the free edge E1 toward the flap fold line 55; 155; 255.

[0163] This disclosure also provides a package comprising: a set of articles or containers "B", each having a generally circular cross-section; and a cardboard box 90 disposed at least partially around the exterior of the set of containers B. The cardboard box 90 includes a plurality of boards 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24; 118; 218 and handle flaps 52; 152; 252. The handle flaps 52; 152; 252 are hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of boards 18; 118; 218 along flap fold lines 55; 155; 255. Handle lobes 52; 152; 252 have multiple parallel folds 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 261, 259b, 257b.

[0164] This disclosure also provides a package comprising: a set of containers "B", each having a generally circular cross-section; and a cardboard box 90 disposed at least partially around the exterior of the set of containers B. The cardboard box 90 includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24; 118; 218 and handle flaps 52; 152; 252. Handle flaps 52; 152; 252 are hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of panels 18; 118; 218. Handle flaps 52; 152; 252 include proximal portions 66; 166; 266 that are hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of panels 18; 118; 218 along flap fold lines 55; 155; 255. Handle flaps 52; 152; 252 include a pair of distal portions 67, 68; 167, 168; 267, 268, which are hinged to proximal portions 66; 166; 266 along a pair of distal portion fold lines 53a, 53b; 153a, 153b; 253a, 253b, respectively. Handle flaps 52; 152; 252 have multiple additional fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b; 157a, 159a; 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; 257a, 259a, 261, 259b, 257b.

[0165] The blank 10 may include longitudinal edges having a plurality of recesses defining tabs therebetween. These recesses may be arranged to allow the blank 10 to be nested with similar blanks 10. Tabs provide upper and lower corner portions of the cardboard box 90. The lower corner portion may include a deformable, foldable structure G that allows the lower corner portion to deform or fold to reduce the sharpness of the lower corner portion of the cardboard box 90. The deformable, foldable structure G allows the lower corner portion to be easily folded into an essentially rounded shape when a load is applied thereto.

[0166] It is understood that various modifications can be made within the scope of this invention. For example, the size and shape of the plate and the opening can be adjusted to accommodate articles of different sizes or shapes.

[0167] It will be recognized that, as used herein, orientation references (such as “top,” “bottom,” “base,” “front,” “rear,” “end,” “side,” “inner,” “outer,” “upper,” and “lower”) do not necessarily restrict the corresponding plates to this orientation, but may only be used to distinguish these plates from one another.

[0168] As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” refer to a variety of lines that define the hinged features of a blank, facilitate the folding of multiple portions of the blank relative to each other, or otherwise indicate the optimal plate folding position of the blank. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line; in fact, a hinged connection can be formed by two or more fold lines, each of which can be straight / linear or curved / curved. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they can be arranged parallel to each other or at a slight angle relative to each other. When curved fold lines form a hinged connection, they can intersect each other to define a shaped plate within the area enclosed by these curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arched or bow-shaped fold lines that intersect at two points, such that they define an elliptical plate therebetween. A hinged connection can be formed by one or more linear fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. Typical examples of such hinged connections may include a combination of linear broken lines and arched or bow-shaped broken lines that intersect at two points, thus defining a crescent-shaped plate between them.

[0169] As used herein, the term “zigzag line” may refer to one of the following: a notch line, a raised line, a recessed line, a row of perforations, a row of short slits, a row of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cutting line, a row of aligned slits, a row of notches, and any combination of the above options.

[0170] It should be understood that the hinged connection and the fold line may each include elements formed in the substrate of the blank, including perforations, rows of perforations, rows of short slits, rows of half-cuts, single half-cuts, cutting lines, interrupted cutting lines, slits, notches, any combination thereof, etc. These elements can be sized and arranged to provide the desired function. For example, the dimensions of a row of perforations can be set or designed to have a thinness to define the fold line and / or dividing line. The row of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breakage, facilitating folding and facilitating breakage with more effort, or facilitating breakage with little effort.

[0171] As used herein, the phrase “aligned with” refers to the alignment of two or more elements (such as an opening formed in the first of two stacked boards and a second opening formed in the second of two stacked boards) in an upright cardboard box. Those elements aligned with each other may be aligned with each other along the thickness direction of the stacked boards. For example, when an opening in the first board is “aligned” with a second opening in a second board (which is positioned to overlap with the first board), the edge of the opening may extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second opening and may be aligned with the second opening along the thickness direction of the first and second boards.

Claims

1. A cardboard box for packaging one or more articles, the cardboard box comprising a plurality of walls defining an interior of the cardboard box and a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of walls along a flap fold line, wherein, The handle petals have three or more parallel broken lines that intersect with the petal's broken line.

2. A blank for forming a cardboard box, comprising a plurality of plates defining an internal cavity and a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates along a flap fold line, wherein, The handle petals have three or more parallel broken lines that intersect with the petal's broken line.

3. The blank according to claim 2, wherein, Each of the multiple parallel broken lines is set approximately perpendicular to the petal broken line.

4. The blank according to claim 3, wherein, Each of the plurality of parallel fold lines extends from the fold line of the lobes toward the free edge of the handle lobes.

5. The blank according to claim 4, wherein, At least one of the plurality of parallel broken lines extends to the free edge of the handle flap.

6. The blank according to claim 2, wherein, The handle flap has a pair of opposing side edges, each of which is parallel to the plurality of parallel fold lines.

7. The blank according to claim 2, wherein, At least one of the plurality of plates includes a distribution plate defined by a pair of tear lines, wherein the handle flap is disposed between the pair of tear lines at a position spaced apart from the tear lines.

8. The blank according to claim 7, wherein, The handle flap is positioned in the middle between the tear lines.

9. The blank according to claim 7, wherein, The lobes are oriented such that the imaginary extension of the lobes intersects the pair of tear lines.

10. The blank according to claim 9, wherein, The imaginary extension of the lobed fold line is approximately perpendicular to the corresponding portion of the tear line to which the imaginary extension intersects.

11. The blank according to claim 2, wherein, The handle flap defines a central axis that is substantially perpendicular to the extension of the flap's fold lines, and wherein the plurality of parallel fold lines are arranged symmetrically about the central axis.

12. The blank according to claim 11, wherein, One of the multiple parallel broken lines extends collinearly with the central axis.

13. The blank according to claim 2, wherein, The handle lobes define a central axis that is substantially perpendicular to the extension of the lobes' fold lines, and wherein the plurality of parallel fold lines include a first pair of fold lines disposed on opposite sides of the central axis at a position equidistant from the central axis, the first pair of fold lines being spaced apart from each other by a first distance.

14. The blank according to claim 13, wherein, The plurality of parallel broken lines further include a second pair of broken lines, the second pair of broken lines being disposed on the opposite side of the central axis at a position equidistant from the central axis, and wherein the second pair of broken lines are disposed apart from each other by a second distance, the second distance being greater than the first distance.

15. The blank according to claim 14, wherein, The length of each of the first fold lines is greater than that of each of the second fold lines.

16. The blank according to claim 13, wherein, Each of the first fold lines extends from the fold line of the petal toward the free edge of the handle petal, and each of the first fold lines terminates not far from the free edge.

17. The blank according to claim 16, wherein, The plurality of parallel broken lines further includes a central broken line that extends collinearly with the central axis.

18. The blank according to claim 17, wherein, The central fold line extends from the petal fold line across the handle petal to the free edge.

19. The blank according to claim 18, wherein, The length of the central broken line is greater than that of each of the first broken lines.

20. The blank according to claim 2, wherein, The length of the fold line of the petal is not greater than the maximum width of the handle petal.

21. A blank for forming a cardboard box, the blank comprising: Multiple plates used to define internal chambers; as well as A handle flap is hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates, the handle flap comprising: The proximal portion, which is hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates along the lobed fold line; and A pair of distal portions, each hingedly connected to the proximal portion along a zigzag line of the pair of distal portions. The handle flap has three or more additional parallel folds that intersect the flap fold line.

22. A blank for forming a cardboard box, the blank comprising a handle flap and a plurality of plates defining an internal cavity, the handle flap being hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates, the handle flap comprising: The proximal portion is hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates along the fold line of the petals; And a pair of distal portions, which are hinged to the proximal portion along a pair of distal portion fold lines, each of the distal portion fold lines extending from the free edge of the handle lobe, the pair of distal portion fold lines being arranged divergently relative to each other to diverge toward the lobe fold line, wherein the handle lobe has at least one additional fold line intersecting the lobe fold line.

23. A package comprising: A set of containers, each with a roughly circular cross-section; as well as A cardboard box, which is at least partially disposed around the exterior of the set of containers, the cardboard box comprising a plurality of boards and a handle flap, the handle flap being hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of boards along flap fold lines, wherein the handle flap includes three or more parallel fold lines intersecting the flap fold lines.

24. A package comprising: A set of containers, each with a roughly circular cross-section; as well as A cardboard box, which is disposed at least partially around the exterior of the set of containers, the cardboard box comprising a plurality of boards and a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of boards, wherein the handle flap comprises; The proximal portion, which is hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates along the lobed fold line; and A pair of distal portions, each hingedly connected to the proximal portion along a zigzag line of the pair of distal portions, and The handle flap has three or more additional parallel folds that intersect the flap fold line.

25. A package comprising: A set of containers, each with a roughly circular cross-section; as well as A cardboard box, at least partially surrounding the exterior of the set of containers, the cardboard box comprising a plurality of boards and handle flaps hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of boards, wherein the handle flaps comprise: The proximal portion, which is hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates along the lobed fold line; and A pair of distal portions, each hingedly connected to the proximal portion along a pair of distal portion fold lines, each of the distal portion fold lines extending from the free edge of the handle lobe, the pair of distal portion fold lines being arranged divergently relative to each other so as to diverge toward the lobe fold line, and The handle petal has at least one additional fold line that intersects with the fold line of the petal.

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