Panel interlocking device

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to panel interlocking devices, cartons, and blanks for forming cartons. A carton blank includes a panel interlocking device for securing first and second panels together in a superimposed relationship. The panel interlocking device includes a locking tab stamped from the first panel and a retaining tab defining a locking aperture stamped from the second panel. In use, the retaining tab is moved out of the plane of the second panel to receive the locking tab to be engaged with the retaining tab through the locking aperture. The retaining tab has opposing side edges that are each concavely curved when viewed from the outside of the retaining tab.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to cartons and blanks for forming cartons. More specifically, but not exclusively, this invention relates to panel interlocking devices for cartons, used to secure a pair of panels (e.g., adjacent stacked panels of a cardboard box) together. In some cases, these panels are provided by opposite ends of packaging material blanks, said opposite ends being stacked together and interlocked. This application is a divisional application, with parent application number 202080028365.9, filed on February 6, 2020, entitled "Panel Interlocking Device". Background Technology

[0002] In the packaging industry, it is known to provide cardboard boxes for carrying multiple items. Cardboard boxes are well-known in the art and are used to enable consumers to transport, store, and access a set of items for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cardboard boxes or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible, with minimal waste of the material used to form them. Also considered are 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 remain secure within it.

[0003] A well-known type is the locking tab, which is stamped from one end of the carton packaging material and arranged to force it through a corresponding hole defined by a retaining tab, which is stamped from the opposite end of the packaging material. Examples of such locks are shown in... Figure 1 It is in Chinese and basically corresponds to GB 1 598 367.

[0004] Further examples are described in GB 2 156 785 and are the property of the applicant of this invention. This document describes a wrap-around carton with a panel interlocking device, the panel interlocking device including a locking tab that needs to be driven through a hole.

[0005] The present invention seeks to provide an improved panel interlocking device that overcomes or at least mitigates the problems of the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to an aspect of the invention, a panel interlocking device is provided, comprising a male protrusion and a female protrusion, the female protrusion having opposing side edges, each side edge being concave and curved when viewed from the outside of the female protrusion.

[0007] According to another aspect of the invention, a panel interlocking device is provided for securing a first panel and a second panel together in a stacked relationship. The panel interlocking device includes a locking tab stamped from the first panel and a retaining tab stamped from the second panel defining a locking hole, wherein the retaining tab is moved out of the plane of the second panel to receive the locking tab to be engaged with the retaining tab through the locking hole. The retaining tab is characterized in that the retaining tab has opposing side edges, at least one of which is concavely curved when viewed from the outside of the retaining tab.

[0008] According to another aspect of the invention, a panel interlocking device is provided for securing a first panel and a second panel together in a stacked relationship. The panel interlocking device includes a locking tab stamped from the first panel and a retaining tab stamped from the second panel defining a locking hole, wherein the retaining tab is moved out of the plane of the second panel to receive the locking tab to be engaged with the retaining tab through the locking hole. The locking hole is characterized in that the locking hole has opposing side edges, each side edge being concave and curved when viewed from the outside of the locking hole.

[0009] Optionally, the center of curvature of each curved side edge is located on the outside of the retaining tab.

[0010] Optionally, the minimum width F4 of the locking hole is located between the distal end and the proximal end of the locking hole, such that the width F5 at the distal end and the width F2 at the proximal end are both greater than the minimum width F4, (F5>F4), (F2>F4).

[0011] Optionally, the width F2 at the proximal end is the maximum width.

[0012] Optionally, the radius of curvature r3 of each side edge is approximately two-thirds of the maximum width F2 of the negative convex piece.

[0013] Optionally, the male protrusion includes a single-position protrusion, the single-position protrusion comprising: Main part; Neck; and Shoulder portion; wherein the neck portion is narrower in width than the shoulder portion to define at least one locking edge formed along the lower part of the shoulder portion; Furthermore, the maximum width F2 of the female protrusion is greater than the maximum width M2 of the protrusion at a single position (F2>M2).

[0014] Optionally, the width F5 at the distal end of the female protrusion is less than the maximum width M2 of the protrusion at a single location (F5 < M2).

[0015] Optionally, the female tab is connected to the mother panel by a non-linear folding line.

[0016] Optionally, the nonlinear fold line includes a curved fold line.

[0017] Optionally, the center of curvature of the curved fold line is located closer to the distal end of the female protrusion than to the curved fold line.

[0018] Optionally, the fold line has a length F1, which is less than the maximum width F2 of the female convex piece (F1 < F2).

[0019] Optionally, the length F1 is less than the minimum width F4 of the female convex piece (F1 < F4).

[0020] Optionally, the fold line has a length F1, which is approximately equal to the minimum width M1 / M4 of the male protrusion.

[0021] Optionally, the male tab includes a multi-position tab with a plurality of recesses along at least one side edge thereon, each recess providing an engagement or locking edge for abutting a panel portion of the mother panel, the female tab being stamped from the mother panel, and wherein the maximum width F2 of the female tab is greater than the maximum width M5 of the multi-position tab.

[0022] Optionally, the width F5 at the distal end of the female protrusion is less than the maximum width M5 of the multi-position protrusion (F5 < M5).

[0023] Optionally, when viewed from the outside of the female protrusion, the female protrusion has a protruding, curved distal end edge.

[0024] Optionally, when viewed from the outside of the locking hole, the locking hole has a protruding, curved distal end edge.

[0025] Optionally, the center of curvature of the curved distal end edge is located closer to the proximal end of the female protrusion than to the distal end.

[0026] Optionally, the radius of curvature r2 of the distal end edge is greater than the radius of curvature r3 of each of the curved side edges (r2 > r3).

[0027] Optionally, the radius of curvature r2 of the distal end edge is approximately equal to the maximum width F2 of the female protrusion.

[0028] According to another aspect of the invention, a carton blank including a panel interlocking device is provided, the carton blank having a first panel and a second panel, the panel interlocking device including a locking tab stamped from the first panel and a retaining tab stamped from the second panel defining a locking hole, wherein the retaining tab can be moved out of the plane of the second panel to receive the locking tab to be engaged with the retaining tab through the locking hole, characterized in that the retaining tab has opposing side edges, each side edge being concave and curved when viewed from the outside of the retaining tab.

[0029] Within the scope of this application, it is contemplated or intended that the aspects, embodiments, examples, features, and alternatives set forth in the foregoing paragraphs, claims, and / or the following description and drawings may be considered or employed independently or in any combination thereof.

[0030] Features or elements described in connection with or related to one embodiment may be applied to all embodiments unless there is feature incompatibility. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into or combined with any other embodiment disclosed herein; one or more features or elements appended to or replacing the other embodiments may include the features or elements extracted from the one embodiment.

[0031] Features or combinations of features of the embodiments disclosed herein may be extracted and separated from other features of the embodiments. Alternatively, features or combinations of features of the embodiments may be omitted from the embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A locking device substantially corresponding to patent number GB 1 598 367 is shown; Figure 2 A wrap-around carton blank including a panel interlocking device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 3A A portion of a pair of closely adjacent panels is shown, which includes a panel interlocking device according to one aspect of the invention; Figure 3B An enlarged view of a locking tab for forming a panel interlocking device according to one aspect of the present invention is shown; Figure 3C An enlarged view of a retaining tab for forming a panel interlocking device according to one aspect of the present invention is shown; Figure 4 and Figure 5 yes Figure 3A The diagram shows a perspective view of a panel interlocking device, in which a pair of panels are fixed together. Figure 6 A portion of a pair of closely adjacent panels is shown, which includes a panel interlocking device according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 It is by Figure 6 The diagram shows a perspective view of the panel interlocking device maintaining the panel inside or on the top side in a stacked relationship; and Figure 8 and Figure 9 Examples of panel interlocking devices formed by a pair of panels according to the third and fourth embodiments of the present invention are shown, the pair of panels being closely adjacent opposite ends of a wrap-around carton blank. Detailed Implementation

[0033] This document discloses detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of panel interlocking devices, packaging, blanks, and cartons. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the invention may be implemented and are not an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention may be implemented. As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to embodiments used as illustrations, samples, models, or patterns. More precisely, it will be understood that the panel interlocking devices, packaging, blanks, and cartons described herein can be implemented in a variety of forms and alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be enlarged or minimized to show detail of particular components. 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 should not be construed as limiting but are merely intended as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to utilize the invention in various ways.

[0034] refer to Figure 2 The diagram shows a plan view of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton or carrier (not shown) for containing and carrying a set of primary products, such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles (not shown). The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0035] In the embodiments described in detail herein, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating various features of the invention, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to containers used for joining and carrying articles (such as primary product containers). It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to a variety of product containers, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal bottles, glass bottles, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), metal containers, bags, pouches, and the like.

[0036] The blank 10 is formed from a suitable substrate sheet. It should be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes all forms of foldable sheet materials, such as cardboard, corrugated cardboard, hardboard, plastics, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognized that, where appropriate, for example, one or more blanks may be used to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

[0037] The packaging structures or cartons described herein may be formed from sheet materials (such as cardboard), which may be made from materials or coated with materials to increase their strength. An example of such sheet materials is a tear-resistant material made by WestRock Company. Cardboard. It should be noted that tear-resistant material can be provided in more than one layer to help improve the tear resistance of the packaging. Typically, one surface of the sheet material can have different properties than the other. For example, the outward-facing surface of the sheet material from the finished packaging side can 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 coated, layered, treated, or otherwise prepared to provide one or more of the following properties: tear resistance, good adhesiveness, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0038] Refer to the attached diagram. Figure 2 and Figure 3A A pair of panels 20, 12 are adapted to interlock and are formed of cardboard or similar foldable sheet material. For example, the pair of panels 20, 12 may be located at opposite ends of the same wrap-around carton blank 10. The pair of panels 20, 12 includes a first panel 20 and a second panel 12. Figure 2 As shown, blank 10 is arranged to form a carton sleeve including opposing sidewalls 14, 16 and a top panel 18, wherein the first and second panels 20, 12 provide the bottom panel of the carton. The carton can be used to package multiple items, such as yogurt cartons, cans, or bottles.

[0039] The second panel 12, the first sidewall panel 14, the top panel 18, the second sidewall panel 16, and the first panel 20 may be arranged to be hinged to each other in a linear series.

[0040] The first panel 20 can form the outer bottom panel of the carton and the second panel 12 can form the inner bottom panel of the carton.

[0041] Special Reference Figure 3AThe first and second panels 20, 12 include panel interlocking devices L for securing the panels together in a stacked relationship. Panel interlocking device L includes a locking tab 22 (also referred to herein as a male tab 22) stamped from or defined within the first panel 20. Panel interlocking device L also includes a retaining tab 42 (also referred herein as a female tab 42) stamped from or defined within the second panel 12. The pair of panels 20, 12 are also referred to herein as mother panels because the male tab 22 and female tab 42 are stamped from a material that would otherwise form the first or second panels 20, 12, respectively.

[0042] The locking tab 22 is hingedly connected to the first panel 20 via a fold line 24. The fold line 24 is spaced apart from the end edge 26 of the first panel 20.

[0043] The fold line 24 can be non-linear, arc-shaped, or curved in shape. Figure 3A In the illustrated embodiment, the fold line 24 is concave and curved relative to the end edge 26 of the first panel 20, that is, when viewed from the end edge 26 of the first panel 20, the fold line 24 appears concave.

[0044] The locking tab 22 includes a neck portion 28 and a main portion 30, the main portion 30 including a shoulder portion 32 that connects to the neck portion 28.

[0045] The main portion 30 extends toward the free edge 26 beyond the neck portion 28 and is separated from the first panel 20 by a first cutting line 38, which connects to or intersects with each of a pair of opposing cutting lines 34, 36. The first cutting line 38 defines the shape of the main portion 30, which may optionally be "arrowhead" shaped. The neck portion 28 may be narrower in width than the adjacent portion of the shoulder portion 32 to define at least one locking edge 40 formed along the lower portion of the shoulder portion 32.

[0046] The opposing cutting lines 34 and 36 define the side edges of the neck portion 28.

[0047] In this way, the locking tab 22 is at least partially defined by the cutting lines 34 / 38 / 36, which are formed by a first cutting line 38 arranged in contact with each other and a pair of opposite cutting lines 34, 36.

[0048] Folding line 24 is offset from and embedded at the first end of neck portion 28. The first end of neck portion 28 is defined by the terminal ends of cutting lines 34 / 38 / 36.

[0049] Optionally, the fold line 24 is partially defined by at least one cutting line 25 to make the locking tab 22 easier to fold.

[0050] like Figure 3A As shown, the retaining tab 42 (also referred to herein as the female tab 42) is stamped from or defined within the second panel 12. Figure 4 As shown, the retaining tab 42 at least partially defines the locking hole 43, which is spaced apart from the end edge 11 of the second panel 12.

[0051] The retaining tab 42 includes opposing side edges, a free end edge or a distal end, and a hinged end edge or a proximal end. A second cutting line 50 defines the distal edge of the retaining tab 42. Opposing side edges are defined by a second pair of opposing cutting lines 46, 48 extending from a corresponding end of the second cutting line 50. The proximal end is partially defined by a cutting line 47. The cutting line 47 is disposed between and spaced apart from each of the second pair of opposing cutting lines 46, 48 to define a hinged portion 49 therebetween.

[0052] The tab 42 is kept generally wider at the proximal end than at the distal end.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, cutting lines 46, 48, and 50 define the three edges of the locking hole 43, as shown. Figure 4 As shown in the image.

[0054] The cutting line 47 is curved in shape and appears concave when viewed from the end edge 11 of the second panel 12. The cutting line 47 includes a first radius of curvature r1 centered at the first point C1.

[0055] Cutting line 47 can be bent relative to the second cutting line 50.

[0056] The first curvature center C1 can be set closer to the end edge 11 of the second panel 12 than the cutting line 47.

[0057] The first curvature center C1 can be set closer to the end edge 11 of the second panel 12 than the second cutting line 50. The first curvature center C1 can be located outside the retaining tab 42.

[0058] like Figure 3A As shown, the first curvature center C1 may be located on the second cutting line 50.

[0059] The first curvature center C1 may be located inside or on the retaining tab 42.

[0060] The second cutting line 50 is curved in shape, and when viewed from the end edge 11 of the second panel 12, the second cutting line 50 is convex and curved. The second cutting line 50 includes a second radius of curvature r2 centered at the second point C2.

[0061] The second curvature center C2 can be set to be farther from the end edge 11 of the second panel 12 than the second cutting line 50.

[0062] The second curvature center C2 can be set to be farther from the end edge 11 of the second panel 12 than the cutting line 47.

[0063] The second curvature center C2 can be located outside the retaining tab 42.

[0064] Each of the second pair of opposing cutting lines 46, 48 is curved in shape. When viewed from the outside of the retaining tab 42, each of the second pair of opposing cutting lines 46, 48 is convexly curved when viewed from the inside of the retaining tab 42 and concavely curved (towards its opposing cutting line) when viewed from the outside of the retaining tab 42. The first 46 of the second pair of opposing cutting lines 46, 48 includes a third radius of curvature r3 centered at a third point C3. The third radius of curvature C3 is located outside the retaining tab 42. The second 48 of the second pair of opposing cutting lines 46, 48 includes a fourth radius of curvature r4 centered at a fourth point C4. The fourth radius of curvature C4 is located outside the retaining tab 42.

[0065] The third curvature center C3 and the fourth curvature center C4 are located on opposite sides of the retaining tab 42.

[0066] The third curvature center C3 and the fourth curvature center C4 are positioned at the end edge 11 of the second panel 12, which is farther away from the second cutting line 50.

[0067] refer to Figure 3C The locking tab 22 includes a length dimension M3 defined between the fold line 24 and the opposite end or tip. The locking tab 22 includes a first width dimension M2 defined between the outer edges of the shoulder portion 32. The neck portion 28 of the locking tab 22 includes a second width dimension M1 defined between the cut lines 34, 36.

[0068] refer to Figure 3B The retaining tab 42 includes a length dimension F3 defined between the proximal end (defined by the cutting line 47) and the distal end (defined by the second cutting line 50).

[0069] The length dimension F3 of the protrusion 42 can be equal to the first radius of curvature r1, (F3 = r1).

[0070] The retaining tab 42 includes a waist, that is, it is narrower in the middle region than it is at the distal end and the proximal end.

[0071] The waist of the retainer 42 includes the waist width dimension F4.

[0072] The opposite ends of the second cutting line 50 define the width of the distal end of the retaining tab 42, the distal end of the retaining tab 42 including the distal end width dimension F5.

[0073] The width dimension F5 at the distal end is greater than the width dimension F4 at the waist (F5 > F4).

[0074] The opposing ends of the cutting line 47 define a linear dimension F1 between them. The linear dimension is defined by a chord of an imaginary circle with a radius equal to the radius of curvature r1 of the cutting line 47. The chord extends between the terminal ends of the cutting line 47.

[0075] The second pair of opposing cutting lines 46 and 48 define the width dimension F2 of the proximal end of the retaining tab 42. The proximal end of the retaining tab 42 is wider than the distal end and waist of the retaining tab 42 (F2>F5>F4).

[0076] The waist (minimum width F4) of the retaining tab 42 can be positioned more closely adjacent to the distal end of the retaining tab 42 than the proximal end of the retaining tab 42.

[0077] The width dimension F2 of the proximal end of the tab 42 can be substantially equal to the second radius of curvature r2 (F2 = r2).

[0078] The third radius of curvature r3 and the fourth radius of curvature r4 can be substantially equal to two-thirds of the width dimension F2 of the proximal end of the retaining tab 42 (r3 = r4 = 2 / 3 F2).

[0079] The linear dimension F1 of the cutting line 47 can be equal to the width dimension M1 of the neck portion 28 of the locking tab 22 (F1 = M1).

[0080] The length dimension F3 of the tab 42 is kept approximately equal to the length dimension M3 of the locking tab 22.

[0081] The width dimension M2 of the shoulder portion 32 of the locking tab 22 can be equal to the width dimension F2 of the proximal end of the retaining tab 42 minus 1mm (M2=F2-1mm).

[0082] The waist width dimension F4 can be equal to the linear dimension F1 of the cutting line 47 plus 0.5mm, (F4=F1+0.5mm).

[0083] The width dimension F5 at the distal end can be equal to the linear dimension F1 of the cutting line 47 plus 1mm, (F5=F1+1mm).

[0084] In some embodiments, the linear dimension F1 of the cutting line 47 may be in the range of 4 mm to 8 mm (4 mm < F1 < 8 mm), and in some embodiments may be equal to 6 mm (F1 = 6 mm).

[0085] In some embodiments, the width dimension F2 of the proximal end of the tab 42 can be in the range of 10 mm to 14 mm (10 mm < F2 < 14 mm), and in some embodiments it can be equal to 12 mm (F2 = 12 mm).

[0086] In some embodiments, the length dimension F3 of the tab 42 can be in the range of 7 mm to 11 mm (7 mm < F3 < 11 mm), and in some embodiments it can be equal to 9 mm (F3 = 9 mm).

[0087] In some embodiments, the first radius of curvature r1 may be in the range of 7 mm to 11 mm (7 mm < r1 < 11 mm), and in some embodiments may be equal to 9 mm (r1 = 9 mm).

[0088] In some embodiments, the second radius of curvature r2 may be in the range of 10 mm to 14 mm (10 mm < r2 < 14 mm), and in some embodiments may be equal to 12 mm (r2 = 12 mm).

[0089] In some embodiments, the third radius of curvature r3 may be in the range of 6 mm to 10 mm (6 mm < r3 < 10 mm), and in some embodiments may be equal to 8 mm (r3 = 8 mm).

[0090] It is envisioned that the carton may be provided with a plurality of locking tabs and retaining tabs substantially identical to locking tab 22 and retaining tab 42, in order to lock the two panels together, and therefore no further detailed description is required. Furthermore, it is envisioned that the panel interlocking device may include a “half-lock”: the locking tabs, retaining tabs, and locking holes are formed only in… Figure 3A One side of the imaginary center line X is shown. In such embodiments, one or both sides of the retaining tab and / or locking hole may be concave and curved in shape. The general principle of applying the invention of panel interlocking devices to half-locks is known in the art. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention includes half-locks incorporating those relevant features of the present invention.

[0091] To lock the first panel 20 and the second panel 12 together, so that they are stacked on top of each other, and to fold the locking tab 22 so that it is not aligned with the first panel 20, as follows: Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in the figure. The retaining tab 42 is folded so that it is not aligned with the first panel 12 and the locking tab 22 passes through the hole 43, which in this embodiment is defined by the retaining tab 42.

[0092] When the locking tab 22 passes through the hole 43 ( Figure 4As shown in the diagram, the locking tab 22 continues to fold around the fold line 24 and is substantially perpendicular to the first and second panels 20, 12, such that the locking tab 22 is pushed beyond the distal edge 50 of the retaining tab 42. Figure 5 (As shown in the diagram). Therefore, the locking tab 22 remains in place because the retaining tab 42 abuts against one side of the locking tab 22 to prevent it from springing back to its original position. The locking tab 22 may abut against the edge of the hole 43 corresponding to the distal edge 50 of the retaining tab 42, thereby holding the locking tab 22 in a substantially perpendicular relationship with respect to the first and second panels 20, 12.

[0093] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in the diagram, the base of the shoulder portion 32 is held in place by the abutment between the locking edge 40 and the panel portion of the second panel 12, because the shoulder portion is wider than the locking hole 43 in the vertical or inclined position.

[0094] Tension can be applied to the first and second panels 20, 12 in a direction opposite to the locking direction; that is, tension is applied in a direction that tends to move the first and second panels 20, 12 apart. Therefore, the mating engagement between the locking tab 22 and the retaining tab 42 keeps the locking tab 22 in its locked state. The first and second panels 20, 12 remain interlocked because the leading edge of the hole 43 abuts or contacts the fold line 24 of the first panel 20, and as explained above, the locking edge 40 of the locking tab 22 is supported by the panel portion of the second panel 12.

[0095] Due to the shape and arrangement of the second pair of opposing cutting lines 46, 48, the hole 43 includes a waist. In some embodiments, the width dimension F4 of the waist may be smaller than the width dimension M1 of the neck portion 28 of the locking tab 22 (F4 < M1).

[0096] The waist of the hole 43 thus inhibits movement of the locking tab 22, which may need to deform or bend to pass through the waist. In this way, the waist increases resistance and improves the security of the locking tab 22 when it is received at the distal end of the hole 43.

[0097] The distal end of the hole 43, defined by the cutting line 50, may be arranged to receive the neck portion of the locking tab 22. When the locking tab 22 is positioned adjacent to the distal end of the hole 43, the locking tab 22 may take on a curved shape similar to the distal end of the hole 43. Maintaining the curved distal end of the tab 42 may facilitate or promote deformation of the locking tab 22.

[0098] The locking tab 22 is hinged to the fold line 24 of the first panel 20 and can be shaped to resemble the curved shape of the distal end of the hole 43 and the curved distal end of the retaining tab 42.

[0099] The curved arrangement of the fold line 24, the distal end of the hole 43, and the distal end of the retaining tab 42 allows the locking tab 22 to be biased toward engaging with the distal end of the hole 43.

[0100] For reference Figures 6 to 9 Alternative embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated therein. In the illustrated second, third, and fourth embodiments, similar reference numerals are used to indicate similar parts where possible, although prefixes "100", "200", and "300" are added to indicate that these features belong to the second, third, and fourth embodiments, respectively. Alternative embodiments and Figures 1 to 5 The embodiments share many common features, therefore they will only be described in more detail with Figures 1 to 5 The differences are shown in the embodiments illustrated in the figure.

[0101] Figure 6 and Figure 7 The second embodiment is shown in the figure, with reference to Figure 6 The illustration shows a pair of panels 120, 112, each adapted to interlock and formed of cardboard or similar foldable sheet material. As in the first embodiment, for example, panels 120, 112 may be located at opposite ends of the same wrap-around carton blank, which will be formed as a carton sleeve including opposing sidewalls and a top panel, wherein panels 120, 112 provide the bottom panel of the carton. Cartons are used to package multiple items, such as yogurt, boxes, cans, or bottles.

[0102] The first and second panels 120, 112 include a pair of panel interlocking devices L for securing the panels together in a stacked relationship. Each of the panel interlocking devices L includes a locking tab 122, which is stamped from the first panel 120 and hingedly connected to the first panel 120. In this embodiment, the locking tab 122 is defined by a pair of opposing cut lines 134, 136 to define the side edges of the main portion 130.

[0103] In the second embodiment, the locking tab 122 (male tab 122) forms a multi-position locking tab; while Figures 1 to 5 In the embodiment illustrated in the figure, the locking tab 22 (male tab 22) forms a single-position locking tab.

[0104] The locking tab 122 terminates at an end edge 126 and is separated from the first panel 120 by a cutting line connecting cutting lines 134 and 136, defining the shape of the main portion. Preferably, the locking tab 122 is generally elongated in shape. In this embodiment, the cutting lines 134, 136 are non-linear to define at least one recess 129. More preferably, the cutting lines 134, 136 are serrated, wherein the recess 129, or each recess 129, is defined between adjacent teeth 128 and provides an engagement edge. Thus, the tab 122 can engage in multiple locations depending on the degree to which the panels need to be stacked.

[0105] The locking tab 122 includes a minimum width dimension M4 defined between a recess 129 on one side of the main portion 130 and a recess 129 disposed on the opposite side. In some embodiments, the minimum width dimension M4 of the locking tab 122 is substantially equal to the linear dimension F1 of the cutting line 147 plus 1 mm.

[0106] The locking tab 122 includes a maximum width dimension M5, defined between teeth 128 on one side of the main portion 130 and teeth 128 disposed on the opposite side. In some embodiments, the maximum width dimension M5 of the locking tab 122 is substantially equal to the maximum width dimension F2 of the retaining tab 142 minus 0.5 mm.

[0107] The locking tab 122 includes a length dimension M6 defined between an end edge 126 and the terminal ends of cut lines 134 and 136, the terminal ends of which define the proximal end of the main portion 130. In some embodiments, the length dimension M6 of the locking tab 122 is substantially equal to the maximum width dimension F2 of the retaining tab 142 plus 7 mm.

[0108] The teeth 128 are arranged with a pitch or periodicity having a linear dimension M7, and adjacent recesses 129 are similarly spaced apart with a linear dimension M7. In some embodiments, the pitch dimension M7 is substantially equal to the linear dimension F1 of the cutting line 147 minus 1 mm.

[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, the first locking tab 122 of the panel interlocking device L is spaced apart from the second locking tab 122 of the panel interlocking device L by a distance M8. In some embodiments, the distance M8 is substantially equal to the length F3 of the retaining tab 142 minus 0.5 mm.

[0110] like Figure 6As shown, the retaining tab 142 is stamped from the second panel 112 and extends into the locking hole 143. Figure 7 Preferably, the tab 142 is configured to be consistent with... Figures 1 to 5 The retaining tab 42 of the embodiment is substantially similar and will not be described in further detail.

[0111] Those skilled in the art will understand that the carton may be provided with a plurality of locking tabs and retaining tabs that are substantially the same as the locking tab 122 and retaining tab 142 in order to lock the two panels together, and therefore no further description is required.

[0112] The process of locking the first panel 120 and the second panel 112 together is substantially the same as the process of locking the panels 10 and 12 together in the first embodiment, and therefore will not be discussed in further detail.

[0113] refer to Figure 7 Once panels 120 and 112 are locked together, and locking tab 122 is folded to be substantially perpendicular to panels 120 and 112, locking tab 122 remains in place because retaining tab 142 abuts against one of the faces of locking tab 122 to prevent it from springing back to its original position, and the corresponding edge of hole 143 engages the opposing recess 129 of locking tab 122. In embodiments where the teeth 128 of opposing side edges are offset from each other, locking tab 122 may tend to twist or deform to retain locking tab 122.

[0114] The locking tab 122 is held in place by abutting against the second panel by the teeth 128, because the teeth are wider than the narrow portion of the locking hole 143 in the vertical or inclined position.

[0115] Figure 8 The third embodiment is shown in the figure, and the third embodiment is related to Figures 1 to 5 The embodiments are basically similar. In the third embodiment, the cutting line 47 has been replaced by a fold line, a notch line, or a crease line 245. The crease line 245 may be formed by 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, or any combination thereof.

[0116] Figure 9 The fourth embodiment is shown in the figure, and the fourth embodiment is related to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The embodiments are basically similar. In the fourth embodiment, the cutting line 147 has been replaced by a fold line, a notch line, or a crease line 345. The crease line 345 may be formed by 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, or any combination thereof.

[0117] The panel interlocking devices of the third and fourth embodiments are formed by a method similar to that described above, and therefore will not be described in any further detail.

[0118] This invention and its exemplary embodiments relate to a device for locking two adjacent panels of a cardboard box, and the device is shaped to provide satisfactory strength in the locked position. The carrier can be formed manually or mechanically. It is anticipated that the invention can be applied to a variety of carriers, and is not limited to those of the wrap-around type.

[0119] It is understood that various modifications can be made within the scope of this invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and holes can be adjusted to accommodate articles of different sizes or shapes.

[0120] It will be recognized that directional designations such as “top,” “bottom,” “base,” “front,” “back,” “end,” “side,” “inner,” “outer,” “upper,” and “lower,” as used herein, do not necessarily restrict the corresponding panels to such orientation, but may only be used to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0121] As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” refer to all forms of lines that define the hinged features of a blank, facilitate the folding of portions of the blank relative to each other, or otherwise indicate the optimal panel folding position for the blank. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to only a single fold line; more precisely, a hinged connection can be formed by two or more fold lines, each of which may be straight / linear or curved / curved in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be set parallel to each other or slightly angled relative to each other. When curved fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a panel of a defined shape within the area enclosed by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arched or curved fold lines that intersect at two points, such that the pair of arched or curved fold lines define an elliptical panel between them. A hinged connection may 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 fold lines and arched or curved fold lines that intersect at two points, such that the linear fold lines and arched or curved fold lines define a crescent-shaped panel between them.

[0122] As used herein, the term "fold 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 seams, a row of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cut line, a row of aligned seams, a row of notches, and any combination of the above options.

[0123] It should be understood that the hinged connection and fold line may each include an element formed in the substrate of the blank, which includes 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, and the like. Elements may be sized and arranged to provide the desired function. For example, a row of perforations may be sized or designed to have a degree of weakness to define fold lines and / or break lines. A row of perforations may be designed to facilitate folding and resist breakage, to facilitate folding and breakage with greater force, or to facilitate breakage with less force.

[0124] As used herein, the phrase “aligned with” refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an upright carton (such as a hole formed in a first of two stacked panels and a second hole formed in a second of two stacked panels). Those elements aligned with each other may be aligned with each other in the thickness direction of the stacked panels. For example, when a hole in a first panel is “aligned” with a second hole in a second panel placed to stack with the first panel, the edge of the hole may extend at least a portion of the edge of the second hole and may be aligned with the second hole in the thickness direction of both the first and second panels.

Claims

1. A panel interlocking device for engaging a first panel and a second panel, the panel interlocking device comprising: A male protrusion on the first panel; and The second panel has a recessed tab with opposing side edges. Each of the opposing side edges of the female protrusion is formed by a cutting line, such that when viewed from the outside of the female protrusion, at least one of the opposing side edges is concave and curved. Furthermore, the minimum width of the female protrusion is located between the distal end and the proximal end of the female protrusion.

2. The panel interlocking device according to claim 1, wherein, The width of the distal end of the female protrusion is smaller than the width of the proximal end of the female protrusion.

3. The panel interlocking device according to claim 1, wherein, The male protrusion includes a neck portion and a shoulder portion, wherein the neck portion is narrower in width than the shoulder portion to define the maximum width of the male protrusion, and wherein the maximum width of the female protrusion is greater than the maximum width of the male protrusion.

4. The panel interlocking device according to claim 3, wherein, The width at the distal end of the female protrusion is less than the maximum width of the male protrusion.

5. The panel interlocking device according to claim 1, wherein, The male tab includes a multi-position tab, the multi-position tab including a plurality of recesses along at least one side edge thereon, each recess providing an engagement edge for abutting against a panel portion of the second panel, and wherein the maximum width of the female tab is greater than the maximum width of the male tab.

6. The panel interlocking device according to claim 5, wherein, The width at the distal end of the female protrusion is less than the maximum width of the male protrusion.

7. The panel interlocking device according to claim 1, wherein, When viewed from the outside of the female protrusion, the female protrusion has a convex, curved distal end.

8. The panel interlocking device according to claim 7, wherein, The center of curvature of the curved distal end is located closer to the proximal end of the female protrusion than to the distal end of the female protrusion.

9. A panel interlocking device for engaging a first panel and a second panel, the panel interlocking device comprising: A male protrusion on the first panel; and The second panel has a recessed tab with opposing side edges. Each of the opposing side edges of the female protrusion is formed by a cutting line, such that when viewed from the outside of the female protrusion, at least one of the opposing side edges is concave and curved. The protruding tab is connected to the second panel at its proximal end via a non-linear fold line. Furthermore, the minimum width of the female protrusion is located between the distal end and the proximal end of the female protrusion.

10. The panel interlocking device according to claim 9, wherein, When viewed from the outside of the female protrusion, the female protrusion has a convex, curved distal end.

11. The panel interlocking device according to claim 10, wherein, The center of curvature of the curved distal end is located closer to the proximal end of the female protrusion than to the distal end of the female protrusion.

12. The panel interlocking device according to claim 10, wherein, The radius of curvature of the distal end is greater than the radius of curvature of the at least one concave side edge.

13. The panel interlocking device according to claim 9, wherein, The nonlinear fold line includes a curved fold line, the center of curvature of which is located closer to the distal end of the female protrusion than to the location near the curved fold line.

14. A panel interlocking device for engaging a first panel and a second panel, the panel interlocking device comprising: A male protrusion on the first panel; and The second panel has a recessed tab, the recessed tab having a pair of opposing distal ends and proximal ends. The minimum width of the female protrusion is located between the distal end and the proximal end of the female protrusion, and the width of the distal end of the female protrusion is smaller than the width of the proximal end of the female protrusion.

15. The panel interlocking device according to claim 14, wherein, The female tab is connected to the second panel at its proximal end via a non-linear fold line.

16. The panel interlocking device according to claim 15, wherein, The nonlinear fold line includes a curved fold line, wherein the center of curvature of the curved fold line is located closer to the distal end of the tab than to the location near the curved fold line.

17. A panel interlocking device for fixing a first panel and a second panel together in a stacked relationship, the panel interlocking device comprising: A male protrusion on the first panel; And a female protrusion stamped from the second panel and defining a locking hole in the second panel, wherein the female protrusion is connected to the second panel such that the female protrusion can be moved out of the plane of the second panel to receive the male protrusion through the locking hole, wherein the female protrusion has at least one of its opposing side edges that is concavely curved when viewed from the outside of the female protrusion, and wherein the minimum width of the female protrusion is located between the distal end of the female protrusion and the proximal end of the female protrusion.

18. The panel interlocking device according to claim 17, wherein, The curvature center of at least one side edge is located outside the locking hole.

19. The panel interlocking device according to claim 17, wherein, The width of the locking hole at the distal end is smaller than the width of the locking hole at the proximal end.

20. The panel interlocking device according to claim 17, wherein, The maximum width of the male protrusion is less than the maximum width of the locking hole.

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