Carton with locking features

Abstract

A carton for containing one or more products. The carton can include a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carton. Further, the carton can include a closure for at least partially closing an end of the carton. The closure can include a locking feature configured to at least partially retain the closure in a closed position when the locking feature is in a locked configuration, and an opening feature for selectively opening the closure. The opening feature can include a pull tab and a push tab configured to at least partially open the closure when actuated.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 570,415, filed on March 27, 2024.

[0003] References

[0004] The publication of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 570,415, filed March 27, 2024, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety as if it were presented herein. Technical Field

[0005] This disclosure generally relates to cartons having locking features for restricting access to products inside the carton. For example, cartons in this disclosure may include closure features with locking features for selectively restricting and / or resisting opening of the carton.

[0006] Cardboard boxes with locking features can be used for a variety of products, such as detergents, medicines, household cleaners, candles, cosmetics, tobacco and / or other products that should be kept out of reach of children and / or other unauthorized persons, in order to help, for example, avoid the use of these products in a dangerous manner. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Generally, one aspect of this disclosure relates to a cardboard box for containing one or more products. The cardboard box may include a plurality of panels extending at least partially around the interior of the cardboard box. Furthermore, the cardboard box may include closures for at least partially closing an end of the cardboard box. The closure may include a locking feature and an opening feature, the locking feature being configured to at least partially hold the closure in a closed position when the locking feature is in a locked configuration, and the opening feature being used to selectively open the closure. The opening feature may include a pull tab and a push tab, the pull tab and push tab being configured to at least partially open the closure when actuated.

[0008] In another aspect, this disclosure generally relates to blanks for forming cartons for containing one or more products. The blank may include a plurality of plates extending at least partially around the interior of the carton and closures for at least partially closing the ends of the carton formed from the blank. The closure may include a locking feature and an opening feature. The locking feature may be configured to, when in a locked configuration, at least partially hold the closure in a closed position when the carton is formed from the blank. The opening feature is used to selectively open the closure when the carton is formed from the blank. The opening feature may include a pull tab and a push tab, configured to be actuated when the carton is formed from the blank to at least partially open the closure.

[0009] In another aspect, this disclosure generally relates to a method of forming a carton for containing one or more products. The method may include obtaining a blank comprising a plurality of plates and a closure. The closure may include a locking feature and an opening feature. The method may further include forming the carton by positioning one of the plurality of plates to extend at least partially around the interior of the carton. The locking feature may be configured to at least partially hold the closure in a closed position when the locking feature is in a locked configuration, and the opening feature is configured to selectively open the closure.

[0010] On the other hand, this disclosure generally relates to cardboard boxes for containing one or more products. The cardboard box may include a plurality of panels extending at least partially around the interior of the cardboard box and closures for at least partially closing the ends of the cardboard box. The closures may include locking features configured to at least partially retain the closures in a closed position. When the closures are in the closed position, the locking features are at least partially prevented from being approached to resist opening of the closures.

[0011] Those skilled in the art will understand the above and other advantages, as well as the benefits of various additional embodiments, by reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0012] As is customary, the various features in the accompanying drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. The dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be enlarged or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a plan view of a blank used to form a paper box according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 2A Based on embodiments of this disclosure Figure 1 A plan view of the partially formed structure of the blank.

[0015] Figure 2B Based on embodiments of this disclosure Figure 2A Partially molded structures and / or Figure 1 A plan view of a paper box formed from the blank material, with the paper box in an open and flattened configuration.

[0016] Figure 3A and Figure 3B It is in a vertical configuration according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2B The bottom perspective view of the cardboard box shows the closure at the bottom of the box.

[0017] Figure 4 According to embodiments of this disclosure Figure 3A and Figure 3B The bottom perspective view of the cardboard box shows that the bottom of the box is in a closed configuration.

[0018] Figure 5 According to embodiments of this disclosure Figure 4 The rear view of the cardboard box shows the bottom locking feature that engages with a hidden line.

[0019] Figure 6A and Figure 6B According to embodiments of this disclosure Figure 3A-5 The top perspective view of the cardboard box shows the closure at the top.

[0020] Figure 7 According to embodiments of this disclosure Figure 6A and Figure 6B The top perspective view of the cardboard box shows the closed configuration of the top of the cardboard box inside the box.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a partial perspective view of the closed top of a cardboard box according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the engaged locking features.

[0022] Figure 9A and Figure 9B According to embodiments of this disclosure Figure 8 The top perspective view of the cardboard box shows the actuation of the opening feature and the opening of the top of the cardboard box.

[0023] Figure 9C According to embodiments of this disclosure Figure 9B A partial perspective view of the cardboard box shows the actuation of the opening feature and the disengagement of the locking feature inside the cardboard box.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a top perspective view of a cardboard box according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the top in a partially open configuration.

[0025] The corresponding parts can be specified by the corresponding reference numerals throughout the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0026] This disclosure generally relates to structural components, boxes, cartons, carriers, pallets, etc., and packaging for containing one or more products or articles (such as products that should be kept out of reach of children (e.g., for safety reasons)). The products or products may be cleaning products, such as detergents, household cleaners, soaps, etc.; pharmaceuticals; cosmetics; candles; tobacco; objects that may pose a choking hazard; one or more glass containers; any other suitable products or materials; or combinations thereof.

[0027] The construction according to this disclosure can accommodate products or articles of any shape. In this specification, the terms “inner,” “internal,” “outer,” “external,” “lower,” “bottom,” “upper,” and “top” indicate orientations determined by a fully upright construction and carton. As described herein, the construction can be formed from a blank by bonding multiple plates, sections, labels, flaps, creases, cuts, and / or other aspects, which may be designated herein by terms relative to each other, such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., and may be referenced sequentially or non-sequentially without departing from this disclosure.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a plan view of the outer side 101 of a blank (generally designated 103) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the blank being used to form a cardboard box 105 for accommodating one or more products or articles (not shown). Figure 2B-10 Paper box 105 may have a top 107 (). Figure 2B and 6A -10) and bottom 109 ( Figure 2B-5 In an embodiment, the cardboard box 105 may include a top closure 111 for at least partially closing the top end 107 and a bottom closure 113 for at least partially closing the bottom end 109. As described below, the top closure 111 and the bottom closure 113 may include locking features for preventing and / or resisting opening of the respective closures 111, 113 when at least partially locked in the closed configuration.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the blank 103 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a transverse axis L2. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 103 includes a front plate 121 foldably connected to a first side plate 123 at a first longitudinal fold line 125, a second side plate 127 foldably connected to the front plate 121 at a second longitudinal fold line 129, and a rear plate 131 foldably connected to the second side plate 127 at a third longitudinal fold line 133. In an embodiment, the blank 103 may include an attachment flap 135 foldably connected to the first side plate 123 at a fourth longitudinal fold line 137. Alternatively, the attachment flap 135 may be foldably connected to the rear plate 131 or may be omitted without departing from this disclosure.

[0030] like Figure 1As shown, the top closure feature 138 and the bottom closure feature 140 can be foldably connected along the respective top (first) edge portion and bottom (second) edge portion of the blank 103 to form a respective top closure 111 and bottom closure 113 in the carton 105. In the illustrated embodiment, the front panel 121 is foldably connected to the top panel 139 and the bottom panel 141. The first side panel 123 is foldably connected to the first side top structure 143 and the first side bottom flap 145. The second side panel 127 is foldably connected to the second side top structure 151 and the second side bottom flap 153. Each of the side top structures 143, 151 may include multiple panels (e.g., a near panel, a middle panel, and a far panel) and end attachment flaps foldably connected along the respective transverse fold lines. Figure 1 As shown, the side top structures 143, 151 may include corresponding retaining shoulders or extensions 155 extending along corresponding portions of the corresponding proximal plates. The top plate 139 and the side top structures 143, 151 may be foldably connected to the corresponding front plate 121, first side plate 123, and second side plate 127 along a first lateral extension fold line 162 extending along at least a portion of the blank 103. The bottom plate 141 and bottom flaps 145, 153 may be foldably connected to the corresponding plates 121, 123, 127 along a second lateral extension fold line 164 extending along at least a portion of the blank 103. In embodiments, the lateral fold lines 162, 164 may be, for example, substantially straight, or offset at one or more locations to account for blank thickness or other factors. In an exemplary embodiment, the second laterally extending fold line 164 may include: a bottom fold line 164a that connects the bottom end plate 141 to the front plate 121; and bottom fold lines 164b and 164c that connect the side bottom end flaps 145 and 153 to the corresponding side plates 123 and 127. The bottom fold line 164a may be recessed into the blank relative to the bottom fold lines 164b and 164c.

[0031] In the illustrated embodiment, the top closure feature 138 may include a top locking feature for at least partially retaining the top closure 111 formed by the top closure feature 138 in a closed configuration. Figure 7 and Figure 8 ) and an unlocking / opening feature for selectively unlocking the locking feature and opening the top closure 111 ( Figures 9A-10 For example, the top locking feature may include: a top closure plate 161 foldably connected to the top end plate 139 along a transverse fold line 163; a top locking plate 165 foldably connected to the closure plate 161 along a transverse fold line 167; and a distal spacer flap 169 foldably connected to the top locking plate along a transverse fold line 170. Figure 1As shown, the top closure feature 138 may also include a rear flap 171, which is foldably connected to the rear plate 131 along a transverse fold line 173 extending along the top edge portion of the blank 103.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the top closure feature 138 may include an unlocking / opening feature comprising a pull tab 175 extending from the distal edge of the top locking plate 165, the pull tab 175 being in an opening 176 in the distal spacer flap 169. In this embodiment, the transverse fold line 170 may be interrupted by the pull tab 175 and / or the opening 176. Figure 1 As shown, the slot 177 may extend in the top plate 139 along at least a portion of the top closure plate 161 so as to form the top closure 111 by the top closure feature 138 (e.g., Figures 6B-9C The pull tab 175 is received at least partially. In an embodiment, the unlocking / unlocking feature may include: a push tab 179 extending in the rear plate 131; and an opening 181 extending in the rear flap 171 to provide clearance for the push tab 179 when it is actuated. Figures 9B-10 ).like Figure 1 As shown, the pusher tab 179 can be foldably connected to the rear plate 131 along the arcuate fold line 183, and can be at least partially separated from the rear plate 131 along the arcuate cut line or tear line 185. Any of the top closure features 138 may be omitted or may be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned and / or configured without departing from this disclosure.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, the bottom closure feature 140 may include a bottom locking feature for at least partially retaining the bottom closure 113 formed by the bottom closure feature 140 in a closed configuration. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom locking feature may include: a bottom closure plate 191 foldably connected to a bottom end plate 141 along a transverse fold line 193; and a bottom locking flap 195 foldably connected to the bottom closure plate 191 along a transverse fold line 197. In an embodiment, the bottom locking flap 195 may have a distal bottom locking edge 198 opposite to the transverse fold line 197. Figure 1As shown, the retaining flap 199 can be foldably attached to the rear plate 131 along a transverse fold line 201 along the bottom edge portion of the blank 103, and the retaining flap 199 can have a distal bottom retaining edge 202 opposite to the transverse fold line 201. In the illustrated embodiment, the transverse fold line 201 can be offset from both bottom edges 203 in a recess 204. The bottom edges 203 can be aligned (e.g., substantially aligned) with the transverse fold lines 164b, 164c. In an embodiment, the bottom closure feature 140 can include: a partition 205 foldably attached to the rear plate 131 along a longitudinal fold line 207; and a distal attachment flap 209 foldably attached to the partition 205 along a longitudinal fold line 211. Figure 1 As shown, the distal attachment flap 209 may include a recess 213 for at least partially receiving the bottom locking flap 195 and the retaining flap 199, as described in more detail below. Any of the bottom closure features 140 may be omitted or may be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and / or configured without departing from this disclosure.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, each of the side-top structures 143, 151 may include: a proximal plate 221 foldably connected to the corresponding side plate 123, 127 along a transverse fold line 162; an intermediate plate 223 foldably connected to the proximal plate 221 along a transverse fold line 225; and a distal plate 227 foldably connected to the intermediate plate 223 along a transverse fold line 229. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the side-top structures 143, 151 may include an end attachment flap 231 foldably connected to the corresponding distal plate 227 along a corresponding transverse fold line 233. In an embodiment, the proximal plate 221 may be separated from the top plate 139 along a corresponding longitudinal cut line or tear line 235. Alternatively, at least a portion of the proximal plate 221 may be spaced apart from the top plate 139. Any portion of the side-top structures 143, 151 may be omitted or may be otherwise shaped, arranged, positioned, and / or configured without departing from this disclosure. The blank 103 may be shaped, arranged, positioned and / or configured in other ways without departing from this disclosure.

[0035] According to the exemplary construction method, the cardboard box 105 can be erected by folding and gluing or otherwise securing the blank 103, such as... Figure 2AAs shown. For example, blank 103 can be positioned with its inner surface 241 facing upwards, and side top structures 143, 151 can be folded along transverse fold lines 225 to fold the intermediate plate 223, distal plate 227, and end attachment flaps 231 to overlap with the inner surfaces of the corresponding proximal plate 221 and the corresponding side plates 123, 127. In embodiments, end attachment flaps 231 can be attached to the corresponding side plates 123, 127 in face-to-face contact (e.g., adhesive and / or otherwise secured). Figure 2A As shown, the bottom side flaps 145 and 153 can be folded along bottom fold lines 164b and 164c to overlap with the corresponding side panels 123 and 127, and in embodiments, the bottom flaps 145 and 153 can be attached to the corresponding side panels 123 and 127 face-to-face (e.g., glued and / or otherwise secured). In the illustrated embodiment, the distal spacer flap 169 can be folded along the transverse fold line 170 to overlap with the top locking plate 165. For example, the distal spacer flap 169 can be attached to the top locking plate 165 face-to-face (e.g., glued and / or otherwise secured). Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the edge formed along the transverse fold line 170 can be the top locking edge 243 of the top closure 111.

[0036] like Figure 2A As shown, the rear flap 171 and retaining flap 199 can be folded along corresponding transverse fold lines 173, 201 to overlap with the rear panel 131. In some embodiments, the rear flap 171 and retaining flap 199 can be attached to the rear panel 131 face-to-face (e.g., glued and / or otherwise secured). In the illustrated embodiment, the distal attachment flap 209 can be folded along longitudinal fold line 211 to overlap with the partition 205 (e.g., face-to-face with the inner surface of the partition 205), and after the retaining flap 199 is folded, the partition 205 can be folded along longitudinal fold line 207 to overlap with the rear panel 131, with the distal attachment flap 209 positioned (e.g., sandwiched) between the partition 205 and the rear panel 131 (e.g., such that the partition 205, the rear panel 131, and the distal attachment flap 209 are in an overlapping relationship). In some embodiments, the distal attachment flap 209 may be attached to the rear panel 131 in face-to-face contact (e.g., adhesive and / or otherwise secured).

[0037] like Figure 2B As shown, Figure 2APartially formed components can be folded and glued and / or otherwise secured to at least partially form a sleeve with end openings. For example, the rear plate 131 can be folded along longitudinal fold line 133 to overlap with the second side plate 127 and the front plate 121, and the first side plate 123 can be folded along longitudinal fold line 125 such that the first side plate 123 overlaps with the front plate 121 and the attachment flap 135 overlaps with the rear plate 131. In some embodiments, the attachment flap 135 can be attached to the rear plate 131 face-to-face (e.g., glued and / or otherwise secured). Figure 2B As shown, the sleeve with open ends can be folded flat (e.g., for transport and / or storage), providing a pre-glued carton 105 ready to be erected, packed / loaded, and closed (e.g., by manual and / or mechanical systems). For example, carton 105 can be... Figure 2B The flattened configuration is erected as follows Figure 3A The sleeve with an open end shown, wherein the cardboard box 105 is folded along longitudinal fold lines 125, 129, 133, 137 such that the front panel 121 and the rear panel 131 are spaced apart from each other and arranged opposite each other, and the side panels 123, 127 are spaced apart from each other and arranged opposite each other. Figure 3A As shown, a plurality of panels, including at least a front panel 121, a rear panel 131, and side panels 123, 127, may extend at least partially around the interior 251 of the carton 105. The carton 105 may be otherwise formed and / or erected without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0038] like Figure 3A and Figure 3BAs shown, the bottom end 109 can be closed with the bottom closure 113. For example, the bottom locking flap 195 can be folded outward relative to the bottom closure plate 191 along the transverse fold line 197, and both the bottom closure plate 191 and the bottom locking flap 195 can be folded toward the interior 251 of the carton 105 along the transverse fold line 193 and can be inserted into the gap 253 between the divider 205 and the back plate 131. For example, as the bottom end plate 141 is folded onto the bottom end 109 of the carton 105 to at least partially close the bottom end 109, the bottom locking flap 195 and the bottom closure plate 191 can be inserted into the gap 253, with the transverse fold line 197 entering the gap 253 first, and the bottom closure plate 191 and the bottom locking flap 195 in at least a partial overlap relationship. Thus, the bottom locking flap 195 and the bottom closure plate 191 can be positioned (e.g., sandwiched) between the divider 205 and the retaining flap 199 when they are inserted into the gap 253. In some embodiments, as the bottom locking flap 195 and the bottom closure plate 191 further move into the gap 253, the bottom locking flap 195 can slide along the retaining flap 199 until the bottom locking edge 198 slides past the bottom retaining edge 202 of the retaining flap 199. In the illustrated embodiment, the natural elastic return of the blank material can at least partially bias the bottom locking flap 195 outward, away from the bottom closure plate 191 and toward the rear plate 131. Therefore, as the bottom locking edge 198 moves past the retaining edge 202, the bottom locking flap 195 can move outward (e.g., pop out) to abut against the inner surface of the rear plate 131. The outward movement of the bottom locking flap 195 can align the bottom locking flap 195 with the retaining flap 199, such that the bottom locking edge 198 and the retaining edge 202 are aligned and opposite to each other.

[0039] As described above, the bottom closure 113 can fold toward the interior 251 of the carton 105, and the bottom locking flap 195 can slide past the retaining flap 199 until the bottom locking flap 195 and the retaining flap 199 become engaged (e.g., locked). For example, the elastic return of the blank material can bias the bottom locking flap 195 outward, such that the bottom locking flap 195 folds outward against the inner surface of the back panel 131 as it moves past the retaining flap 199. Therefore, the bottom locking edge 198 of the bottom locking flap 195 can engage the retaining edge 202 of the retaining flap 199, such that the bottom locking edge 198 and the retaining edge 202 are at least partially aligned. For example, the bottom locking edge 198 may engage and / or contact the retaining edge 202 such that if the force applied to the bottom end plate 141 may otherwise cause the bottom closure 113 to fold outward from the inside of the carton 105 (e.g., if an attempt is made to pull open the bottom closure 113), the retaining flap 199 blocks the bottom locking flap 195 and prevents the bottom locking flap 195 and the remainder of the bottom closure 113 from moving outward (e.g., opening).

[0040] The closed and locked bottom 109 is shown Figure 4 and Figure 5 middle. Figure 5 The bottom locking feature that engages inside the cardboard box 105 is shown; for example, the hidden feature is shown in dashed lines. Figure 5 As shown, when the bottom closure 113 is closed and the distal attachment flap 209, retaining flap 199, and bottom locking flap 195 are at least partially coplanar in the gap 253 between the partition plate 205 and the rear plate 131, the recess 213 in the distal attachment flap 209 can at least partially accommodate the bottom locking flap 195 and the retaining flap 199. In some embodiments, the closed bottom closure 113 may be at least partially recessed at the bottom 109 (e.g., relative to the rear plate 131 and side plates 123, 127). For example, the bottom edge 203 and bottom fold lines 164b and 164c of the rear plate 131 may be spaced apart below the bottom plate 141 and the remainder of the bottom closure 113. In some embodiments, the bottom closure 113 may also be without any pull tabs or other entry points, so that once the bottom 109 is closed and locked, it is difficult or impossible to open the bottom closure 113 (e.g., without cutting or tearing the carton). The bottom end 109 may be closed and / or locked in other ways without departing from this disclosure.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the top end 107 can be closed and locked, such as... Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown. For example, the side top structures 143, 151 can be folded along the transverse fold line 162 and inserted into the interior 251 of the cardboard box 105. Figure 6AIn some embodiments, the side top structures 143, 151 can be folded along fold lines 225, 229, 233, and as the side top structures 143, 151 are folded into the interior 251, the distal plate 227 can be separated from and arranged opposite the corresponding proximal plate 221, with the intermediate plate 223 extending between the corresponding proximal plate 221 and the distal plate 227. Figure 6B As shown, the proximal plate 221 of the side-top structure 151 can extend horizontally (e.g., substantially horizontally and / or essentially horizontally) from the side plate 127 at the top 107, and, in the example, as Figure 8 As shown schematically in a partially disconnected view, the distal plate 227 extends horizontally (e.g., generally horizontally and / or substantially horizontally) into the interior 251 from the side plate 127 and the end attachment flap 231, while the intermediate plate extends vertically (e.g., generally vertically and / or substantially vertically) between the proximal portion 221 and the distal portion 227. Figure 6B and Figure 8 As shown, for example, when the side top structures 143, 151 are in place in the interior 251 at the top 107, the shoulder 155 can be maintained to extend outward from the proximal plate 221 toward the rear plate 131.

[0042] like Figure 6A As shown, the top locking plate 165 can be folded along the fold line 167 and overlaps with the top closing plate 161, with the distal spacer flap 169 sandwiched between them. Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the pull tab 175 can be inserted and at least partially passes through the slot 177. (As indicated...) Figure 6B As shown, the top closure 111 can be folded toward the interior of the carton 105 such that the top plate 139 at least partially closes the top 107, and the top locking plate 165 and the top closure plate 161 are inserted between the top side end structures 143, 151 and the rear flap 171 (which can be glued face-to-face with the rear plate 131). As the top closure 111 moves to the closed position, the top locking plate 165 can slide along the outer edge of the shoulder 155 until the top locking plate 165 and the top locking edge 243 move past (e.g., below) the shoulder 155, wherein the elastic return of the carton material can bias the top locking plate 165 away from the top closure plate 161 into the interior 251, such that the top locking plate 165 and the top locking edge 243 move below the shoulder 155. In the illustrated embodiment, the shoulders 155 may be spaced apart to define recesses or gaps therebetween, and as the top locking plate 165 moves below the shoulders 155, a pull tab 175 extending upward from the top locking edge 243 may be at least partially received in the recesses or gaps between the shoulders 155. Figure 8As schematically shown, the top locking plate 165 may contact the edge of the intermediate plate 223, and / or the pull tab 175 may contact the edge of the top plate 139 extending along the slot 177 and / or the edge near plate 221 to resist and / or prevent further movement of the top locking plate 165 away from the top closure plate 161. The top closure 111 may be otherwise actuated to at least partially close the top 107 and / or may be otherwise locked without disengaging from this disclosure. Furthermore, the ends 107, 109 may be closed in any order and may be packaged / loaded before and / or after closing one end.

[0043] exist Figure 7 and Figure 8 The diagram shows a closed and locked top closure 111, wherein a pull tab 175 extends upward through a slot 177 and an unactuated push tab 179 extends in the rear plate 131. Figure 9A ).like Figure 8 As shown schematically in a partially disconnected view, a top locking plate 165 may extend below the shoulder 155 of the top end structures 143, 151 to lock the top closure 111 in a closed configuration. For example, the elastic return of the blank material may bias the top locking plate 165 away from the rear flap 171 and the rear plate 131. Forces that may move the top closure 111 upward away from the interior of the carton 105 may cause the top locking edge 243 of the top locking plate 165 to contact the proximal plate 221 of the side end structures 141, 151 (below the shoulder 155), which prevents further folding of the top closure 111 and holds the top closure 111 in the closed position.

[0044] like Figures 9A-10 As shown, the top closure 111 can be selectively unlocked and opened by actuating the pull tab 175 and push tab 179. For example, a user can pull the pull tab 175 (e.g., in the direction of arrow A1) to move the pull tab 175 toward the rear plate 131 against the bias of the elastic return force of the blank / carton material. In an embodiment, this can move the top locking plate 165 toward the rear plate 131. Figure 9C As shown schematically in the partially disconnected view, the top locking plate 165 and the top locking edge 243 move outward toward the shoulder 155, thereby, as... Figures 9A-9C When the pull tab 175 is actuated, the shoulder 155 does not interfere with the movement of the top locking plate 165. In an exemplary embodiment, the push tab 179 can be actuated (e.g., pushed inward through the opening 181) such that the push tab 179 folds upward along the fold line 183 within the interior 251 of the carton 105 (e.g., as shown by arrow A2), thereby at least partially forming an entry opening 255 in the rear plate 131. Figure 9B and Figure 9C ).like Figure 9CAs shown schematically in the partially disconnected view, the actuated pusher 179 can push upward on the top closure plate 161 and the top locking plate 165 in the direction of arrow A3 (e.g., on the fold line 167 connecting the top closure plate 161 and the top locking plate 165) to push the top closure 111 such that the top closure 111 folds away from the interior of the carton 105 along the transverse fold line 162. Figure 9B and Figure 9C ), to open the top 107 ( Figure 10 In one embodiment, once the top closure edge 243 has moved past the shoulder 155, the user can continue to open the top closure 111 by pulling upward on the pull tab 175 and / or other portions of the top closure, causing the top plate 139 to pivot away from the top 107. Once the top closure 111 is opened, the side top structures 143, 151 can pivot upward outward from the interior 251 to access the interior 251 of the cardboard box 105 and / or the contents of the cardboard box 105 (not shown).

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, such as Figures 6A-8 As shown, the top closure 111 can be reclosed (e.g., as described above). In an exemplary embodiment, when the top 107 is closed and the locking feature is engaged, the locking feature can emit an audible sound (e.g., a click) to indicate to the user that the carton 105 is locked in a closed configuration. The carton 105 can be otherwise formed and / or closed without departing from this disclosure.

[0046] In this embodiment, the top end structures 143, 151 not only help protect one or more products (e.g., glass jars or other suitable items) inside the carton 105, but also form an integrated locking mechanism, at least partially, with insert flaps (e.g., formed by the top locking plate 165 and the top closing plate 161). In this embodiment, the elastic return force of the blank material can aid in locking the top closing plate 111. As described above, the top end 107 of the carton 105 can be opened using a two-step process by pulling on the pull tab 175 and pushing on the push tab 179. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom end 109 may also include locking features that, for example, are difficult or impossible to open once closed and locked (due to a lack of accessible area). In this embodiment, this configuration of the blank 103 and the carton 105 allows the carton 105 to be erected (e.g., from...). Figure 2B (Pre-glued end-opening sleeve configuration), loaded and closed without additional adhesives or machines. For example, the carton can be filled and securely closed by hand without additional adhesives. Thus, the carton 105 can provide a child-protected and / or child-proof package that can be filled and closed / locked by hand without additional gluing processes or investment in machinery, etc.

[0047] Any of the features of the various embodiments of this disclosure may be combined, substituted, or otherwise configured with other features of other embodiments of this disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, plates, flaps, and / or other features shown and described by way of example in conjunction with blanks, cartons, and / or packages of the above embodiments are included. Alternatively, the closure features and / or other features of this disclosure may be associated with any suitable carton or blank having any plate and flap construction.

[0048] The cardboard box according to this disclosure can be formed, for example, from a blank made of coated cardboard and similar materials. For example, a clay coating can be applied to the inside and / or outside of the blank. Product information, advertisements, price codes, and other information or images can then be printed on the clay coating. The blank can then be coated with a varnish to protect any information printed on it. The blank can also be coated with a moisture-proof layer, for example, on one or both sides. According to the above embodiments, the blank can be made of cardboard of such thickness that it is heavier and stiffer than ordinary paper. The blank can also be made of other materials, such as cardboard, cardboard, or any other material with properties suitable for making the cardboard box function at least generally as described herein. The blank can also be laminated or coated with one or more sheet materials at selected board or board portions.

[0049] According to the embodiments described above in this disclosure, the fold line can be any substantially linear (though not necessarily straight) weakening form that facilitates folding along it. More specifically (but not in an attempt to narrow the scope of the invention), the fold line includes: a notch line, such as a line formed with a blunt notch tool that creates a collapsed portion in the material along the desired weakening line; a cut that partially extends into the material along the desired weakening line; and / or a series of cuts that partially extend into the material along the desired weakening line and / or completely penetrate the material; and various combinations of these features.

[0050] As an example, a tear line may include: a slit that extends partially into the material along a desired weakening line; and / or a series of spaced-apart slits that extend partially into the material along a desired weakening line and / or completely through the material; or a combination of these features. As a more specific example, a tear line takes the form of a series of spaced-apart slits that extend completely through the material, with adjacent slits slightly spaced apart to define a notch (e.g., a smaller, slightly bridging piece of material) between adjacent slits, typically used to temporarily connect materials across the tear line. The notch breaks along the tear line during the tearing process. The notch is typically a relatively small percentage of the tear line; alternatively, the notch may be omitted from the tear line or torn within the tear line, thus making the tear line a continuous cut line. That is, individual tear lines may be replaced by continuous slits, etc., also within the scope of the invention. For example, the cut line may be a continuous slit, or it may be wider than a slit without departing from the invention.

[0051] The above embodiments can be described as bonding one or more panels, flaps, or features together with adhesive during the erection of the cardboard box embodiment. The term "adhesive" will include all adhesive methods commonly used to secure cardboard box panels in place.

[0052] The foregoing description of this disclosure illustrates and describes various embodiments. Since various changes can be made to the above constructions without departing from the scope of this disclosure, all matters contained in the foregoing description or shown in the accompanying drawings are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Furthermore, the scope of this disclosure covers various variations, combinations, modifications, etc., of the above embodiments, which are within the scope of the claims. Additionally, this disclosure only illustrates and describes selected embodiments; however, this disclosure is applicable to various other combinations, modifications, and environments, and can be modified or altered within the scope of the inventive concept expressed herein, consistent with the foregoing teachings, and / or within the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. Moreover, certain features and characteristics of each embodiment may be optionally interchanged and applied to other embodiments shown and not shown in this disclosure.

Claims

1. A cardboard box for containing one or more products, the cardboard box comprising: Multiple plates, the multiple plates extending at least partially around the interior of the cardboard box; A closure for at least partially closing an end of the carton, the closure including a locking feature and an opening feature, the locking feature being configured to at least partially hold the closure in a closed position when the locking feature is in a locked configuration, and the opening feature for selectively opening the closure, wherein the opening feature includes a pull tab and a push tab, the pull tab and push tab being configured to at least partially open the closure when actuated.

2. The cardboard box according to claim 1, wherein, The locking feature includes a retaining shoulder extending inside the carton, and the closure includes a locking plate extending inside the carton when the closure is in the closed position, and at least a portion of the locking plate engages below the retaining shoulder when the locking feature is in the locked configuration to at least partially retain the closure in the closed position.

3. The cardboard box according to claim 2, further comprising a side-top structure, the side-top structure being foldably connected to a side panel among the plurality of panels, wherein, When the closure is in the closed position, the side top structure extends at least partially into the interior of the carton, and the side top structure includes at least one proximal plate extending from the side plate and an end attachment flap at least partially fixed to the side plate, wherein the retaining shoulder extends from the proximal plate.

4. The cardboard box according to claim 3, wherein, The locking plate includes a locking edge that engages the retaining shoulder when the locking feature is in the locking configuration. The locking edge is spaced inwardly from the rear plate of the plurality of plates, and wherein the pull tab extends from the locking plate, and the push tab is located in the rear plate to engage the locking plate opposite to the locking edge.

5. The cardboard box according to claim 2, wherein, The locking plate includes a locking edge that engages the retaining shoulder when the locking feature is in the locking configuration. The locking edge is spaced inwardly from the rear plate of the plurality of plates. The pull tab extends from the locking plate through the shoulder, and the push tab is foldably connected to the rear plate along a fold line such that when the push tab is pressed into the interior of the carton, the push tab engages the locking plate and pushes the locking plate upward, pivoting along the fold line.

6. The cardboard box according to claim 5, wherein, The pull tab is configured to be actuated to move the locking plate out of alignment with the shoulder, such that when the push tab pushes the locking plate, the locking plate moves upward past the shoulder at least once.

7. The cardboard box according to claim 2, wherein, The closure includes an end plate and a closure plate, the closure plate being foldably connected to the end plate. When the closure is in the closed position, the end plate at least partially closes the end of the carton, and the closure plate extends from the end plate into the interior of the carton. A locking plate is foldably connected to the closure plate opposite to the end plate, and the locking plate extends at least partially from the closure plate toward the end plate.

8. The cardboard box according to claim 7, wherein, The pull tab extends from the locking plate and passes at least partially through a slot defined in at least the end plate.

9. The cardboard box according to claim 7, wherein, The retaining shoulder extends from the proximal plate, which is foldably connected to the side plate of the plurality of plates, and the end plate at least partially overlaps the proximal plate when the closure is in the closed position.

10. The cardboard box of claim 1, further comprising a side-top structure foldably connected to a side panel of the plurality of panels, wherein, The side-top structure includes at least a proximal plate extending from the side plate, an intermediate plate extending downward from the proximal plate relative to the side plate, a distal plate extending from the intermediate plate toward the side plate, and an end attachment flap that is at least partially overlapping the side plate, wherein the locking feature includes a retaining shoulder extending from the proximal plate.

11. The cardboard box according to claim 10, wherein, The closure includes an end plate and a locking plate. When the locking feature is in the locking configuration, the end plate at least partially closes the end of the carton, and at least a portion of the locking plate engages the retaining shoulder inside the carton to at least partially hold the closure in the closed position, wherein the end plate at least partially overlaps the proximal plate.

12. The cardboard box of claim 1, further comprising a first side top structure and a second side top structure, the first side top structure being foldably connected to a first side panel of the plurality of panels, and the second side top structure being foldably connected to a second side panel of the plurality of panels, wherein, The locking feature includes a first retaining shoulder and a second retaining shoulder extending from the corresponding first side top structure and second side top structure toward a rear plate extending from the first side plate to the second side plate.

13. The cardboard box according to claim 1, wherein, The end is the top, and the closure is the top closure, wherein the carton also includes a bottom end and a bottom closure, the bottom closure being used to at least partially close the bottom end of the carton, and wherein the bottom closure includes a bottom locking feature configured to at least partially hold the bottom closure in a closed position.

14. The cardboard box according to claim 13, wherein, The bottom locking feature includes a bottom locking flap of the bottom closure and a retaining flap foldably connected to the rear panel of the plurality of panels, wherein the bottom locking flap and the retaining flap are at least partially aligned such that the retaining flap restricts movement of the bottom locking flap in at least one direction when the bottom locking feature is in a locked configuration.

15. The cardboard box according to claim 14, wherein, The partition extends along at least a portion of the rear plate, and wherein, when the bottom locking feature is in the locking configuration, the retaining flap and the bottom locking flap extend at least partially in the gap between the partition and the rear plate.

16. The cardboard box according to claim 15, wherein, The bottom closure includes a bottom end plate and a bottom closure plate, the bottom end plate being foldably connected to the front plate of the plurality of plates, and the bottom closure plate being foldably connected to the bottom end plate, wherein the bottom locking flap is foldably connected to the bottom closure plate opposite to the bottom end flap, and when the bottom closure is in the closed position, the bottom closure plate is at least partially overlapping the bottom locking flap in the gap between the partition plate and the rear plate.

17. The cardboard box according to claim 13, wherein, The bottom closure is recessed relative to the bottom edge of the cardboard box.

18. A blank for forming a paper box for containing one or more products, the blank comprising: Multiple plates for extending at least partially around the interior of the cardboard box; A closure for at least partially closing an end of a carton formed from the blank, the closure including a locking feature and an opening feature, the locking feature being configured to at least partially hold the closure in a closed position when the locking feature is in a locked configuration and when the carton is formed from the blank, and the opening feature being configured to selectively open the closure when the carton is formed from the blank, wherein the opening feature includes a pull tab and a push tab, the pull tab and the push tab being configured to be actuated to at least partially open the closure when the carton is formed from the blank.

19. The billet according to claim 18, wherein, The locking feature includes a retaining shoulder for extending inside a carton formed from the blank, the closure includes a locking plate, and at least a portion of the locking plate is used to engage below the retaining shoulder when the locking feature is in a locked configuration to at least partially retain the closure in the closed position.

20. The blank according to claim 19, further comprising a side top structure foldably connected to the side plates of the plurality of plates, wherein, The side top structure includes at least a proximal plate extending from the side plate and an end attachment flap at least partially fixed to the side plate, wherein the retaining shoulder extends from the proximal plate.

21. The billet according to claim 19, wherein, The locking plate includes a locking edge for inwardly spaced from the rear plate of the plurality of plates when the carton is formed from the blank, wherein the pull tab extends from the locking edge of the locking plate, and the push tab extends in the rear plate at a position for engaging the locking plate when the carton is formed from the blank.

22. The billet according to claim 19, wherein, The closure includes an end plate and a closure plate foldably connected to the end plate, the end plate being used to at least partially close the end of the carton formed from the blank, and wherein the locking plate is foldably connected to the closure plate opposite to the end plate.

23. The billet according to claim 22, wherein, The pull tab extends from the locking plate and is configured to be received at least partially through a slot defined at least in the end plate when the carton is formed from the blank.

24. The billet according to claim 22, wherein, The retaining shoulder extends from a proximal plate that is foldably connected to a side plate among the plurality of plates, and when the box is formed from the blank, the end plate at least partially overlaps the proximal plate when the closure is in the closed position.

25. The blank according to claim 18, further comprising a side top structure foldably connected to the side plates of the plurality of plates, wherein, The side-top structure includes at least: a proximal plate foldably connected to the side plate along a first fold line; an intermediate plate foldably connected to the proximal plate opposite to the side plate along a second fold line; a distal plate foldably connected to the intermediate plate along a third fold line; and an end attachment flap foldably connected to the distal plate along a fourth fold line, wherein the locking feature includes a retaining shoulder extending from the proximal plate.

26. The blank according to claim 18, further comprising a first side top structure foldably connected to a first side plate of the plurality of plates and a second side top structure foldably connected to a second side plate of the plurality of plates, wherein, The locking feature includes a first retaining shoulder and a second retaining shoulder extending from the corresponding first side top structure and second side top structure.

27. The billet according to claim 18, wherein, The closure is a top closure for at least partially closing the top of the carton formed from the blank, wherein the blank also includes a bottom closure for at least partially closing the bottom of the carton formed from the blank, and wherein the bottom closure includes a bottom locking feature configured to at least partially hold the bottom closure in a closed position when the carton is formed from the blank.

28. The billet according to claim 27, wherein, The bottom locking feature includes a bottom locking flap of the bottom closure and a retaining flap foldably connected to the rear plate of the plurality of plates, wherein the bottom locking flap and the retaining flap are at least partially engaged with each other when the carton is formed from the blank to at least partially retain the bottom closure in the closed position.

29. The billet according to claim 28, wherein, The partition is foldably connected to the back plate, the partition being configured to at least partially overlap the back plate when the carton is formed from the blank, and wherein the retaining flap and the bottom locking flap are configured to extend at least partially in the gap between the partition and the back plate when the carton is formed from the blank.

30. The billet according to claim 29, wherein, The bottom closure includes a bottom end plate foldably connected to the front plate of the plurality of plates and a bottom closure plate foldably connected to the bottom end plate, wherein the bottom locking flap is foldably connected to the bottom closure plate opposite to the bottom end flap.

31. A method for forming a cardboard box for containing one or more products, the method comprising: Obtain a blank comprising multiple plates and a closure, wherein the closure includes a locking feature and an opening feature; The cardboard box is formed by positioning one of the plurality of boards to extend at least partially around the interior of the cardboard box; The locking feature is configured to at least partially hold the closure in a closed position when the locking feature is in a locked configuration, and the opening feature is used to selectively open the closure. The opening feature includes a pull tab and a push tab, which are configured to be actuated when the carton is formed from the blank to at least partially open the closure.

32. The method according to claim 31, wherein, The locking feature includes a retaining shoulder, and the closure includes a locking plate. The method further includes: at least partially closing the end portion, wherein closing the end portion includes: positioning the retaining shoulder and the locking plate to extend within the interior of the carton such that at least a portion of the locking plate engages below the retaining shoulder, thereby at least partially retaining the closure in the closed position when the locking feature is in a locked configuration.

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein, The blank also includes a side top structure that is foldably connected to the side panels of the plurality of plates, wherein closing the end includes positioning the side top structure to extend at least partially into the interior of the carton.

34. The method according to claim 33, wherein, The side top structure includes at least a proximal plate and an end attachment flap, wherein the retaining shoulder extends from the proximal plate, and wherein forming the carton includes: folding the side top structure and securing the end attachment flap to the side plate.

35. The method according to claim 32, wherein, The closure includes an end plate and a closure plate foldably connected to the end plate, wherein closing the end includes positioning the end plate to at least partially close the end of the carton and positioning the closure plate to extend from the end plate into the interior of the carton.

36. The method according to claim 35, wherein, The locking plate is foldably connected to the closure plate opposite to the end plate, and the pull tab extends from the locking plate, wherein forming the carton includes: folding the locking plate relative to the closure plate such that the locking plate extends at least partially from the closure plate toward the end plate, and positioning the pull tab to extend at least partially through a slot defined in at least the end plates.

37. A cardboard box for containing one or more products, the cardboard box comprising: Multiple plates, the multiple plates extending at least partially around the interior of the cardboard box; A closure for at least partially closing an end of the carton, the closure including a locking feature configured to at least partially hold the closure in a closed position, wherein, when the closure is in the closed position, the locking feature is at least partially protected from approach to resist opening the closure.

38. The cardboard box according to claim 37, wherein, The locking feature includes a locking flap of the closure and a retaining flap foldably connected to the rear plate of the plurality of plates, wherein the locking flap and the retaining flap are at least partially aligned such that the retaining flap restricts movement of the locking flap in at least one direction when the locking feature is in a locked configuration.

39. The cardboard box according to claim 38, wherein, The partition extends along at least a portion of the rear plate, and wherein, when the locking feature is in the locked configuration, the retaining flap and the locking flap extend at least partially in the gap between the partition and the rear plate.

40. The cardboard box according to claim 39, wherein, The closure includes an end plate foldably connected to the front plate of the plurality of plates and a closure plate foldably connected to the end plate, wherein the locking flap is foldably connected to the closure plate opposite to the end flap, and when the closure is in the closed position, the closure plate is at least partially located in the gap between the partition plate and the rear plate, and is at least partially overlapping the locking flap.

41. The cardboard box according to claim 37, wherein, The end is the bottom end of the cardboard box, and the closure is recessed relative to the bottom edge of the cardboard box.

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