Box, method for assembling box, and packaging container

Abstract

Provided are: a box that can be transported and stored in a flat form, that is simple to assemble in a three-dimensional form in which the box is ready for use, and that can be used repeatedly and over a long term; a method for assembling the box; and a packaging container including the box. This box comprises: a flat section 10 forming a bottom surface or a top surface; a flexible outer section 20 linked to the flat section 10, surrounding the flat section 10; an inner section 30 linked to the outer section 20 in a manner that allows the inner section 30 to be folded over toward the flat section 10; and a shape retention member 40 configured to maintain the inner section 30 in an upright position with the inner section 30 folded over toward the flat section 10, wherein the shape retention member 40 is configured to be removalby attached to the inner section 30.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a box that can switch between a flat form and a three-dimensional form, a method for assembling the box, and a packaging container comprising the box.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Among boxes made of paper is, for example, a thomson box (e.g., a die-cut box) (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The thomson box is fabricated by punching through a sheet-shaped material using a thomson die (e.g., a clicker die) to obtain a blank, which is an unfolded sheet that will form a box, and forming the blank into a three-dimensional form by, for example, folding the blank. The blank for the thomson box before assembly is a thin sheet, and therefore, a lot of blanks can be piled up, advantageously leading to a reduction in cost of transport and storage.

[0003] Aside from thomson boxes, there are paper-covered boxes (see, for example, Patent Document 2). The paper-covered box is fabricated by forming a core material obtained by a punching process or the like into a three-dimensional form, and attaching decorative paper to the outer surface. The paper-covered box has glamorous and attractive appearance and provides luxurious feel.

[0004] There are typically difficulties in assembling a thomson box using a machine, and therefore, manual work is required. Thus, assembly of a thomson box may take a lot of time and effort. Meanwhile, paper-covered boxes need to be transported or stored in a three-dimensional assembled state, disadvantageously leading to an increase in cost of transport and storage.

[0005] With the above in mind, the present applicant has invented a box that can switch between a flat form and a three-dimensional form (see Patent Document 3). The box disclosed in Patent Document 3 has: a flat section that forms a bottom surface or top surface; flexible, film-like side sections that are linked to the flat section, surrounding the flat section; and shape retention members that are linked to the side sections. The shape retention member is linked to the side section in a manner that allows the shape retention member to be folded over toward the flat section. The shape retention member is put in an upright position by an operation of folding the shape retention member over toward the flat section.

[0006] The box disclosed in Patent Document 3 can be assembled in a three-dimensional form in which the box is ready for use, by folding the shape retention members over toward the flat section, which is a simple operation. In addition, in the state in which the shape retention members are not in an upright position, the flexible, film-like side sections linked to the flat section are in a flat form. Therefore, the entire box can be transported and stored in a flat form.CITATION LISTPATENT LITERATURE

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. S58-41318 Patent Document 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2005-212800 Patent Document 3: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-99395 SUMMARY OF INVENTIONTECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0008] However, the box disclosed in Patent Document 3 is supposed to be disposable. Repeated use and long-term use have not particularly been assumed. For the box disclosed in Patent Document 3, the shape retention member is attached and fixed to the side section using a double-sided adhesive tape, adhesive, or the like. Therefore, for example, when the shape retention member on a single face is bent or becomes weak, the box is discarded even if the shape retention members on the other faces and the side sections remain intact. Thus, there is room for improvement in environmentally friendliness and cost.

[0009] With the above in mind, the present invention has been made. It is an object of the present invention to provide a box that can be transported and stored in a flat form, that is simple to assemble in a three-dimensional form in which the box is ready for use, and that can be used repeatedly and over a long term, a method for assembling the box, and a packaging container comprising the box.SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

[0010] To solve the above problem, a box according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: a flat section forming a bottom surface or a top surface; a flexible outer section linked to the flat section, surrounding the flat section; an inner section linked to the outer section in a manner that allows the inner section to be folded over toward the flat section; and a shape retention member configured to maintain the inner section in an upright position with the inner section folded over toward the flat section, wherein the shape retention member is configured to be removalby attached to the inner section.

[0011] In this configuration of the box, when the shape retention member is not in an upright position, the flexible outer section linked to the flat section and the inner section linked to the outer section in a manner that allows the inner section to be folded over toward the flat section are in a flat form. Therefore, the entire box can be transported and stored in a flat form. The shape retention member is configured to be removably attached to the inner section. The shape retention member is attached to the inner section before being put in an upright position by an operation of folding the inner section over toward the flat section. The inner section and the outer section are maintained in an upright position by the shape retention member in an upright position. Therefore, the box can be assembled in a three-dimensional form in which the box is ready for use, by a simple operation of attaching the shape retention member to the inner section and folding the inner section over toward the flat section. Furthermore, because the shape retention member is attachable and detachable, only the shape retention member may be replaced if the shape retention member is bent or becomes weak. Therefore, the box thus configured is environmentally friendly and costs low due to a reduction in waste. Furthermore, the box itself can be washed after all of the shape retention members are removed. Therefore, the box can be used repeatedly and over a long term. It should be noted that as used herein, the term "box" means both a box that is in a flat form in which the shape retention member is not in an upright position and a box that is in a three-dimensional form in which the shape retention member is in an upright position.

[0012] The box according to the present invention is preferably further characterized in that the inner section has a holding section configured to hold the shape retention member.

[0013] In this configuration of the box, the inner section has a holding section configured to hold the shape retention member. Therefore, the shape retention member can be prevented from being dislodged from the inner section. In addition, the shape retention member can be held without an adhesive tape, adhesive, or the like, and therefore, can be easily removed.

[0014] The box according to the present invention is preferably further characterized in that the holding section is configured as a bag body, wherein the shape retention member is allowed to be inserted into or removed from the bag body.

[0015] In this configuration of the box, the holding section is configured as a bag body, wherein the shape retention member is allowed to be inserted into or removed from the bag body. Therefore, the shape retention member can be easily inserted into and removed from the inner section. In addition, when the shape retention member is inserted into the bag body, and the inner section is put in an upright position by an operation of folding the inner section over toward the flat section, the opening of the bag is brought into contact with the inside of the box and is thereby blocked. As a result, the shape retention member is prevented from being dislodged from the inner section. Furthermore, in this case, the shape retention member is not seen from the outside, resulting in an improvement in design properties.

[0016] The box according to the present invention is preferably further characterized in that the box comprises a reinforcing member configured to be put on top of the flat section.

[0017] In this configuration of the box, the shape of the bottom surface or top surface formed by the flat section can be reliably maintained by the reinforcing member even when a load is applied to the flat section, and therefore, the function of protecting contents in the box can be improved. In addition, when the reinforcing member is put on top of the flat section after the shape retention member is folded over toward the flat section to be in an upright position, the outer and inner sections, surrounding the flat section, are pushed and expanded by the reinforcing member, so that the entire box becomes tight, resulting in an increase in the strength of the box.

[0018] The box according to the present invention is preferably further characterized in that the reinforcing member has a recessed portion or a protruding portion formed at an outer peripheral edge thereof, and the shape retention member has a protruding portion or a recessed portion configured to be engaged with the recessed portion or the protruding portion of the reinforcing member when the shape retention member is in an upright position (provided that the box configured such that the inner section completely covers the shape retention member is excluded).

[0019] In this configuration of the box, the reinforcing member and the shape retention member are locked by the recessed portion or the protruding portion of the reinforcing member being engaged with the protruding portion or the recessed portion of the shape retention member, and therefore, the relative movement of the shape retention member along an outer peripheral edge of the reinforcing member can be prevented. Therefore, the box can be inhibited from being deformed due to the effect of an external force, and therefore, the function of protecting contents in the box can be further improved. In addition, the entire box becomes tight, and therefore, the strength of the box itself can be further enhanced.

[0020] The box according to the present invention is preferably further characterized in that the bag body is formed as a bag, wherein one end of the bag is closed.

[0021] In this configuration of the box, the bag body is formed as a bag one end of which is closed. Therefore, when the shape retention member is inserted into the bag body, the shape retention member is stopped at the closed deep end of the bag body. As a result, the shape retention member can be attached to the inner section at a correct position.

[0022] The box according to the present invention is preferably further characterized in that the box is configured to be allowed to be folded up within an outline of the flat section as viewed from above.

[0023] In this configuration of the box, the box is configured to be allowed to be folded up within an outline of the flat section as viewed from above. Therefore, the entire box can be transported and stored in a flat form. In addition, when all of the shape retention members are removed, the box can be further folded up from the flat form, and therefore, can be folded up into a predetermined smaller size.

[0024] The box according to the present invention is preferably further characterized in that the inner section is provided with a pocket part, wherein a functional member is allowed to be inserted into and removed from the pocket part.

[0025] In this configuration of the box, the inner section is provided with a pocket part into which a functional member is allowed to be removably inserted. Therefore, the functional member can be easily replaced, depending on an article contained in the box.

[0026] The box according to the present invention is preferably further characterized in that the shape retention member has a base member configured to determine a shape thereof, and a subsidiary member configured to reinforce the base member.

[0027] In this configuration of the box, the functions of the shape retention member can be shared out by the base member configured to determine a shape thereof and the subsidiary member configured to reinforce the base member. Therefore, even if a member that has functionality such as heat insulating properties but low strength is used as the base member, the subsidiary member can compensate for the low strength of the base member. Therefore, the shape retention member that has both strength and functionality can be provided.

[0028] Next, a method for assembling a box according to the present invention for solving the above problem is characterized in that it is a method for assembling any of the above boxes, and by comprising: an attachment step of attaching the shape retention member to the inner section; and a raising step of folding the inner section over toward the flat section to put the inner section in an upright position.

[0029] In this configuration of the method for assembling a box, when the shape retention member is not in an upright position, the flexible outer section linked to the flat section and the inner section linked to the outer section in a manner that allows the inner section to be folded over toward the flat section are in a flat form. Therefore, the entire box can be transported and stored in a flat form. The shape retention member is configured to be removably attached to the inner section. When the attachment step of attaching the shape retention member to the inner section is performed, and thereafter, the raising step of folding the inner section over toward the flat section to put the inner section in an upright position is performed, the inner section is put in an upright position. The inner section and the outer section are maintained in an upright position by the shape retention member. Therefore, the box can be assembled in a three-dimensional form in which the box is ready for use, by a simple operation of attaching the shape retention member to the inner section and folding the inner section over toward the flat section. Furthermore, because the shape retention member is attachable and detachable, only the shape retention member may be replaced if the shape retention member is bent or becomes weak. Therefore, the box assembling method thus configured is environmentally friendly and costs low due to a reduction in waste. Furthermore, the box itself can be washed after all of the shape retention members are removed. Therefore, the box can be used repeatedly and over a long term.

[0030] Next, a packaging container according to the present invention for solving the above problem is characterized by comprising: a first box that is any of the above boxes; and a second box configured to be combined with the first box.

[0031] In this configuration of the packaging container, at least one of a body box and a lid box constituting the packaging container can be transported and stored with the entirety thereof in a flat form in which the shape retention member is not in an upright position, and in addition, can be assembled in a three-dimensional form in which the box is ready for use, by an operation of folding the shape retention members over toward the flat section. Therefore, the packaging container is convenient for transport and storage, and is easy to assemble.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0032] [FIG. 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a box according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1(a) is an overall perspective view. FIG. 1(b) is an exploded perspective view. FIG. 1(c) is a front view. FIG. 1(d) is a right side view. FIG. 1(e) is a top view. FIG. 1(f) is a bottom view. [FIG. 2] FIG. 2 illustrates a flat form of a box body in which inner sections are closed together with shape retention members. FIG. 2(a) is an overall perspective view. FIG. 2(b) is a front view. FIG. 2(c) is a right side view. FIG. 2(d) is a top view. FIG. 2(e) is a bottom view. [FIG. 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a flat form of a box body in which inner sections are opened together with shape retention members. FIG. 3(a) is a partially cut-away overall perspective view. FIG. 3(b) is a front view. FIG. 3(c) is a right side view. FIG. 3(d) is a top view. FIG. 3(e) is a bottom view. [FIG. 4] FIG. 4 illustrates an unfolded state of a box body. FIG. 4(a) is an overall perspective view. FIG. 4(b) is a partially deformed overall perspective view of FIG. 4(a). FIG. 4(c) illustrates another embodiment of a shape retention member used in a box. [FIG. 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram for describing the structure of a fixing means for fixing adjacent outer sections together in the box of FIG. 1. [FIG. 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram for describing assembly of a box body. FIG. 6(a) is a diagram illustrating a state before shape retention members are attached. FIG. 6(b) is a diagram illustrating a state after shape retention members are attached. FIG. 6(c) is a diagram illustrating a state after a pair of inner sections are folded over. [FIG. 7] FIG. 7 illustrates a packaging container including a box according to the present invention. FIG. 7(a) illustrates the case where both of a body box and a lid box are the box of the present invention. FIG. 7(b) illustrates the case where a body box is the box of the present invention and a lid box is a thomson box. FIG. 7(c) illustrates the case where a body box is a thomson box and a lid box is the box of the present invention. FIG. 7(d) illustrates the case where a body box that is different from that of 7(c) is a thomson box and a lid box is the box of the present invention. [FIG. 8] FIG. 8 is a partially enlarged view of a main portion of an inner section of a box according to the present invention. FIG. 8(a) illustrates a bag one end of which is closed (first other embodiment). FIG. 8(b) illustrates a bag both ends of which are closed (second other embodiment). FIG. 8(c) illustrates belt-like holding sections (third other embodiment). FIG. 8(d) illustrates belt-like holding sections different from those of FIG. 8(c) (fourth other embodiment). FIG. 8(e) illustrates holding sections provided at four corners (fifth other embodiment). FIG. 8(f) illustrates a holding section both ends of which are in a flap shape (sixth other embodiment). [FIG. 9] FIG. 9 illustrates a locking structure of a reinforcing member and a shape retention member of a box according to a seventh other embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9(a) is a diagram for describing a locking structure in which a recessed portion of the reinforcing member is engaged with a protruding portion of the shape retention member. FIG. 9(b) is a diagram for describing a locking structure in which a protruding portion of the reinforcing member is engaged with a recessed portion of the shape retention member. [FIG. 10] FIG. 10 illustrates a fixing means according to an eighth other embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10(a) is a perspective view of a main portion of a box body in an unfolded state. FIG. 10(b) is a perspective view of a main portion of a box body with outer sections in an upright position. [FIG. 11] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a main portion of an angular portion of a box body in the middle of assembly, illustrating a covering structure according to a ninth other embodiment of the present invention. [FIG. 12] FIG. 12 is an overall perspective view of a box according to a tenth other embodiment of the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0033] The present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not intended to be limited to embodiments described below or configurations illustrated in the drawings. In the drawings, the shape, size, thickness, and the like of each part are exaggerated or simplified as necessary for the sake of simplicity. The size and thickness of each part in the drawings are not to scale.[Overall Configuration]

[0034] FIG. 1 illustrates a box 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1(a) is an overall perspective view. FIG. 1(b) is an exploded perspective view. FIG. 1(c) is a front view. FIG. 1(d) is a right side view. FIG. 1(e) is a top view. FIG. 1(f) is a bottom view. As illustrated in FIGS. 1(a) to 1(f), the box 1 includes a box body 5, and an optional reinforcing member 50 that is provided inside the box body 5. The box body 5 includes a flat section 10 that forms a bottom surface or top surface (in the example of FIG. 1, a bottom surface), and double sidewall sections 80 that are provided in an upright position and linked to the flat section 10, surrounding the flat section 10.

[0035] FIG. 2 illustrates a flat form of the box body 5 in which inner sections 30 are closed together with shape retention members 40. FIG. 2(a) is an overall perspective view. FIG. 2(b) is a front view. FIG. 2(c) is a right side view. FIG. 2(d) is a top view. FIG. 2(e) is a bottom view. FIG. 3 illustrates a flat form of the box body 5 in which the inner sections 30 are opened together with the shape retention members 40. FIG. 3(a) is a partially cut-away overall perspective view. FIG. 3(b) is a front view. FIG. 3(c) is a right side view. FIG. 3(d) is a top view. FIG. 3(e) is a bottom view. As illustrated in FIGS. 2(a) to 2(e) and FIGS. 3(a) to 3(e), the box body 5 is configured to be able to be folded up in a flat form.<Box Body>

[0036] FIG. 4 illustrates an unfolded state of the box body 5. FIG. 4(a) is an overall perspective view. FIG. 4(b) is a partially deformed overall perspective view of FIG. 4(a). FIG. 4(c) illustrates another embodiment of the shape retention member used in the box. The box body 5 includes a main material sheet 55, and shape retention members 40. The box body 5 is assembled by joining predetermined portions of the main material sheet 55 together as described below, attaching the shape retention members 40 to the inner sections 30 as illustrated in FIG. 4(b), and folding predetermined portions by a predetermined operation described below.

[0037] The main material sheet 55 is formed in a shape corresponding to the unfolded state of the box body 5 as illustrated in FIG. 4(a), from a raw material sheet, by a predetermined punching or cutting process or the like. It should be noted that the main material sheet 55 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the unfolded state of the box by attaching a plurality of raw material sheet parts together.

[0038] The main material sheet 55 is not particularly limited, as long as the main material sheet 55 is a flexible material. Examples of the main material sheet 55 include: cloths, such as woven materials, knitted materials, nonwoven fabrics, and multilayer cloths that are a cloth overlaid with metal foil, resin, or the like; resin films; paper laminates; composite films of metal and resin; and leathers, such as artificial leathers, synthetic leathers, and natural leathers. In the case where the box 1 is used as a paper-covered box, the main material sheet 55 that is decorated by attractive colors, patterns, or the like is employed. In the case in which an aluminum multilayer cloth that is a cloth overlaid with aluminum foil is employed as the main material sheet 55, the box 1 has excellent heat insulating properties, and therefore, is capable of exhibiting the function of keeping its contents hot and cool.

[0039] As illustrated in FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b), the main material sheet 55 includes a flat section 10, outer sections 20, inner sections 30, and fixing means 25. The outer sections 20 are linked to the rectangular flat section 10 with fold lines 26 interposed therebetween, surrounding the flat section 10. The inner sections 30 are linked to the outer sections 20 with fold lines 27 interposed therebetween.

[0040] The fold lines 26 and 27 may be provided to the main material sheet 55 for ease of manufacture, or alternatively, may not be provided to the main material sheet 55, if there is no problem with manufacture. In the present specification, for example, in order to clearly illustrate different sections, a description is given, assuming that the main material sheet 55 is provided with the fold lines 26 and 27 (this also holds true for fold lines 28, 29, 78-79, and 88 described below).<Flat Section>

[0041] The flat section 10 is preferably formed in the shape of a square or rectangle in terms of the ease of use and manufacturing cost of the box. In this embodiment, the flat section 10 is formed in the shape of a rectangle. It should be noted that the term "flat" with respect to a surface means both that the surface is completely flat and smooth and that the surface has, for example, roughness due to embossing, debossing, or the like for providing design properties, and the depth and height of the roughness are negligible with respect to the magnitude of the area of the surface, so that the surface is substantially flat.<Outer Section>

[0042] The outer sections 20 are linked to the flat section 10, surrounding the flat section 10. A pair of linking flaps 21 are linked, as the fixing means 25, to both end portions of an outer section 20 with a pair of fold lines 29 interposed therebetween. A pair of linking flaps 21 are linked only to a pair of outer sections 20 that are provided, corresponding to a pair of two opposite sides of the four sides of the flat section 10.<Inner Section>

[0043] The inner section 30 is linked to the outer section 20 in a manner that allows the inner section 30 to be folded over toward the flat section 10. The inner section 30 preferably has a holding section capable of holding the shape retention member 40. If the inner section 30 has a holding section capable of holding the shape retention member 40, the shape retention member 40 can be prevented from being dislodged from the inner section 30. In this embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b), the inner section 30 has a main surface section 31, and a folding section 61 as the holding section. The main surface section 31 is linked to the outer section 20 with the fold line 27 interposed therebetween. The folding section 61 is linked to the main surface section 31 with a fold line 28 interposed therebetween.

[0044] The size of the folding section 61 is set such that when the folding section 61 is folded over toward the flat section 10 with reference to the fold line 28, the folding section 61 lies on the main surface section 31, covering the entire main surface section 31. The folding section 61 has an adhesion portion 33. As illustrated in FIG. 4(b), the folding section 61 is folded over toward the flat section 10 with reference to the fold line 28, and for example, an adhesive is applied to the adhesion portion 33, and the folding section 61 is joined to a portion which the adhesion portion 33 lies on, so that a bag body that is linked to the outer section 20 in a manner that allows the bag body to be folded over toward the flat section 10 is formed on the inner section 30. A means for joining the adhesion portion 33 is not limited to an adhesive, and may, for example, be a stitch made by sewing.

[0045] In this embodiment, as described above, a bag body that the shape retention member 40 can be inserted into and remove from is formed by folding the folding section 61 over to lie on the main surface section 31. If a bag body such as that illustrated in FIG. 4(b) is formed on the inner section 30, the shape retention member 40 can be easily inserted into and removed from the inner section 30.

[0046] In this embodiment, the folding section 61 is provided, and a bag body into which that the shape retention member 40 can be removably inserted is formed, as the holding section, by folding the folding section 61 over to lie on the main surface section 31. The shape of the holding section is not limited to a bag body, and is configured such that the shape retention member 40 is held so as to be prevented from moving in the assembled box as described below.<Fixing Means>

[0047] FIG. 5 is a diagram for describing the structure of the fixing means 25 for fixing adjacent outer sections 20 together in the box 1 of FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the fixing means 25 includes a linking flap 21 that is linked to one of adjacent outer sections 20 (in FIG. 5, the left outer section 20), and an adhesive layer 22 as a joining means for joining the linking flap 21 to the other outer section 20 (in FIG. 5, the right outer section 20). The fixing means 25 is configured such that adjacent outer sections 20 are pulled to meet each other, an adhesive or the like is applied to the linking flap 21 linked to one of the outer sections 20 and / or the other outer section 20 to form the adhesive layer 22 between the linking flap 21 and the other outer section 20, and is cured with the linking flap 21 and the other outer section 20 put on top of each other with the adhesive layer 22 interposed therebetween, so that the linking flap 21 and the other outer section 20 are fixed together. It should be noted that a double-sided adhesive tape may be used instead of an adhesive. By thus fixing adjacent ones of the four outer sections 20 together by the fixing means 25, the outer sections 20, which are flexible and linked to the flat section 10, can be easily formed so as to surround the flat section 10.

[0048] The joining means for joining the linking flap 21 to the other outer section 20 is not limited to the use of the adhesive layer 22. The joining means may be a hook-and-loop fastener, which includes a loop part and a hook part that are configured to engage with each other to perform joining, a snap fastener, which includes a male and a female member that are configured to engage with each other to perform joining, or the like. Alternatively, the joining means may be a stitch that is configured to join the linking flap 21 to the other outer section 20 by sewing.<Shape Retention Member>

[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 4(b), the shape retention member 40 is configured to be removably attached to the inner section 30. When the inner section 30 is folded over toward the flat section 10 with reference to the fold line 27 to entirely lie on the outer section 20 with the shape retention member 40 attached to the inner section 30, the inner section 30 is maintained in an upright position. Thus, the shape retention member 40 maintains the inner section 30 and the outer section 20 in an upright position, so that the double sidewall section 80 of the box body 5 is formed. In this embodiment, the inner section 30 is formed to have a bag, and therefore, when the inner section 30 is put in an upright position by an operation of folding the inner section 30 over toward the flat section 10, the opening of the bag is brought into contact with the inside of the box and is thereby blocked. As a result, the shape retention member 40 is prevented from being dislodged from the inner section 30. Furthermore, in this case, the shape retention member 40 is not seen from the outside, resulting in an improvement in design properties.

[0050] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the inner section 30 is configured to cover the entire shape retention member 40. Therefore, when the inner section 30 is put in an upright position by an operation of folding the inner section 30 over toward the flat section 10, an end portion of the inner section 30 is in contact with the flat section 10, so that the upright position of the inner section 30 is maintained by friction.

[0051] The shape retention member 40 is not particularly limited, as long as the shape retention member 40 is rigid enough to maintain the inner section 30 and the outer section 20 in the shape of a plate when these sections are in an upright position. Examples of the shape retention member 40 include corrugated fiberboard sheets, plastic corrugated fiberboard, cardboard, resin plates, metal plates, insulating plates made of foamed polystyrene or the like, diatomaceous earth plates, and activated carbon plates. Because the shape retention member 40 is configured to be attachable and detachable, if the shape retention member 40 is bent or becomes weak, only the shape retention member 40 may be replaced. Therefore, the box 1 of this embodiment is environmentally friendly and costs low due to a reduction in waste. It should be noted that the thickness of the shape retention member 40 is not particularly limited, and may be set, as appropriate, depending on the application of the box 1 or the material strength of the shape retention member 40.

[0052] The shape retention member 40 may be made of a plurality of materials. For example, the shape retention member 40 of FIG. 4(c) has a base member 45 that determines the shape, and a subsidiary member 46 that reinforces the base member 45. In this embodiment, the shape retention member 40 is formed by layering the base member 45 and the subsidiary member 46. The shape retention member 40, which has the two-layer structure, is inserted into and removed from the bag body formed on the inner section 30. If the shape retention member 40 thus made of a plurality of materials is used, the functions of the shape retention member 40 can be shared out. For example, if foamed polystyrene is used as the base member 45, then when plastic corrugated fiberboard is used as the subsidiary member 46, the box 1 has the effect of keeping its contents hot and cool and a sufficient level of strength. Therefore, even if a member that has functionality but low strength is used as the base member 45, the subsidiary member 46 can compensate for the low strength of the base member 45. Therefore, the shape retention member 40 that has both strength and functionality can be provided.

[0053] A material that can exhibit a predetermined effect can be used as the shape retention member 40 (the base member 45). For example, if an insulating plate made of foamed polystyrene or the like is used as the shape retention member 40 (the base member 45), the box 1 has excellent heat insulating properties, and therefore, can exhibit the effect of keeping its contents hot and cool. Alternatively, if a diatomaceous earth plate and an activated carbon plate are used as the shape retention member 40 (the base member 45), the box 1 has excellent air freshening properties and dehumidifying properties. Furthermore, by applying a chemical agent to the shape retention member 40, the shape retention member 40 may be configured to exhibit a predetermined effect. For example, if the shape retention member 40 (the base member 45) to which an insect repellent is applied is used, insects can be prevented from entering the box 1.<Reinforcing Member>

[0054] As illustrated in FIG. 1(b), the reinforcing member 50 is formed in the shape of a square or rectangular (in this example, rectangular) plate having a predetermined thickness that can cover the entire flat section 10 when the reinforcing member 50 is put on top of the flat section 10. The reinforcing member 50 is not particularly limited, as long as the reinforcing member 50 has the function of imparting rigidity to the flat section 10. Like the shape retention member 40, examples of the reinforcing member 50 includes corrugated fiberboard sheets, plastic corrugated fiberboard, cardboard, resin plates, and metal plates. By providing the reinforcing member 50 thus put on top of the flat section 10, the shape of the bottom surface or top surface (in this example, the bottom surface) formed by the flat section 10 can be reliably maintained by the reinforcing member 50 even when a load is applied to the flat section 10. Therefore, the function of protecting contents in the box body 5 can be improved. In addition, when the reinforcing member 50 is put on top of the flat section 10 after the shape retention members 40 are folded over toward the flat section 10 to be in an upright position, the double sidewall sections 80, surrounding the flat section 10, are pushed and expanded by the reinforcing member 50, so that the entire box 1 becomes tight, resulting in an increase in the strength of the box 1.[Form of Box during Transport and Storage]

[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 2(d), the box 1 is configured to be able to be folded up within the outline of the flat section 10 as viewed from above. When the box 1 is transported or stored, a large number of box bodies 5 are piled up, each in the flat form, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, and a large number of reinforcing members 50 of FIG. 1(b) are also piled up, and a set of the two piles is made ready for shipment. In addition, the box 1 may be made ready for shipment with all of the shape retention members 40 removed. In that case, the box 1 can be further folded up from the flat form to a predetermined smaller size.

[0056] In the case of the flat form of FIG. 2(a), neither the four inner sections 30 of the box body 5 to which the shape retention members 40 are attached nor the shape retention members 40 are in an upright position, a pair of inner sections 30 facing each other of the four inner sections 30, together with the shape retention members 40, are folded over to lie on the flat section 10, and a pair of the remaining inner sections 30, together with the shape retention members 40, are folded over to lie on the pair of inner sections 30 that, together with the shape retention members 40, have been folded over to lie on the flat section 10, whereby the overall height of the box body 5 is reduced. Meanwhile, in the case of the flat form of FIG. 3(a), none of the four inner sections 30 of the box body 5 to which the shape retention members 40 are attached is in an upright position, and the four inner sections 30, together with the shape retention members 40, are opened and made flat outside the flat section 10, whereby the overall height of the box body 5 is reduced.

[0057] In the case of the flat form of FIG. 2(a), the four inner sections 30, together with the shape retention members 40, are closed and folded over to lie on the flat section 10, and therefore, the footprint of the box body 5 when placed in the flat form at a loading site or storage site during transport or storage is smaller than that of the flat form of FIG. 3(a). Therefore, the flat form of FIG. 2(a) is suitable for the case where the footprint of the box body 5 when placed needs to be reduced at a loading site or storage site during transport or storage.

[0058] In the case of the flat form of FIG. 3(a), the four inner sections 30, together with the shape retention members 40, are opened and made flat outside the flat section 10, and therefore, the overall thickness is smaller than that of the flat form of FIG. 2(a). Therefore, the flat form of FIG. 3(a) is suitable for the case where the height of the pile of box bodies 5 needs to be further reduced during transport or storage, or the case where as many box bodies 5 as possible need to be piled up within predetermined height restrictions.

[0059] Of the flat form of FIG. 2(a), the flat form FIG. 3(a), and the form in which the box body 5 is further folded up with the shape retention members 40 removed, any one may be employed, or one may be selected as appropriate, taking into account not only the area and height of a loading site or storage site but also other circumstances.[Method for Assembling Box]

[0060] FIG. 6 is a diagram for describing assembly of the box body 5. FIG. 6(a) is a diagram illustrating a state before the shape retention members 40 are attached. FIG. 6(b) is a diagram illustrating a state after the shape retention members 40 are attached. FIG. 6(c) is a diagram illustrating a state after a pair of inner sections 30 are folded over. Initially, as illustrated in FIG. 6(a), the shape retention members 40 are attached to the inner sections 30. The shape retention member 40 is attached to each of all the inner sections 30, and all of the four inner sections 30 are made flat outside the flat section 10 to be in the flat form of FIG. 3(a). In the flat form of FIG. 3(a), as illustrated in FIG. 6(b), the flat section 10 is pushed down with respect to the flexible outer sections 20 in the folded-up state, so that the outer sections 20 are put in an upright position with respect to the flat section 10. Thereafter, for example, a pair of inner sections 30 facing each other, together with the shape retention members 40, are folded over toward the flat section 10, and the inner sections 30 and the shape retention members 40 are moved toward the outer sections 20 so as to be brought into contact with the outer sections 20, facing the outer sections 20, while edges of the inner sections 30 slide on the flat section 10. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 6(c), the pair of inner sections 30 facting each other, together with the shape retention members 40, lie on the outer sections 20 while being in an upright position. Following this, as illustrated in FIG. 6(c), a pair of the remaining inner sections 30 facing each other, together with the shape retention members 40, are similarly folded over to lie on the outer sections 20 while being in an upright position. When the shape retention members 40 are thus put in an upright position by the operation of folding the shape retention members 40 and the inner sections 30 over toward the flat section 10, the upright position of the outer sections 20 is maintained by the shape retention members 40 in an upright position, so that the double sidewall sections 80 of the box body 5 are formed. Therefore, the box body 5 can be converted into a three-dimensional form in which the box body 5 is ready for use, by a simple operation of folding the shape retention members 40 together with the inner sections 30 over toward the flat section 10.

[0061] Although in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the box body 5 is assembled by two steps that are a step of attaching the shape retention members 40 to the inner sections 30 (attachment step), and a step of folding the inner sections 30 over toward the flat section 10 to put the inner sections 30 in an upright position (raising step), the present invention is not limited to this. A step of attaching a shape retention member 40 to an inner section 30 and then folding the inner section 30 over toward the flat section 10 may be performed for the four inner sections 30 in sequence, the step for each inner section 30, so that the box body 5 is assembled in a three-dimensional form. Thus, any procedure for folding all of the inner sections 30, together with the shape retention members 40, over toward the flat section 10 can be used to convert the box body 5 into a three-dimensional form in which the box body 5 is ready for use.

[0062] The reinforcing member 50 is put on top of the flat section 10 of the box body 5 that has been assembled in a three-dimensional form as described above (see FIGS. 1(a) and 1(b)). Thus, the box 1 is completely assembled.[Packaging Container]

[0063] FIG. 7 illustrates a packaging container including the box 1 of the present invention. FIG. 7(a) illustrates the case where both of a body box 1A and a lid box 1B are the box 1 of the present invention. FIG. 7(b) illustrates the case where a body box 1A is the box 1 of the present invention and a lid box 201 is a thomson box. FIG. 7(c) illustrates the case where a body box 301 is a thomson box and a lid box 1B is the box 1 of the present invention. FIG. 7(d) illustrates the case where a body box 301 that is different from that of FIG. 7(c) is a thomson box and a lid box 1B is the box 1 of the present invention.

[0064] In the case of a packaging container 100 illustrated in FIG. 7(a), the box 1 is used as a body box 1A for storing an article to be packaged, and a box that has a structure basically similar to that of the box 1 and is suitable for use as a lid, is used as a lid box 1B that is combined with the body box 1A. The flat section 10 of the lid box 1B serves as a top surface and is large enough to cover the entire opening of the body box 1A. In addition, the opening sizes, height dimensions, and the like of the double sidewall sections 80 of the lid box 1B are set such that the double sidewall sections 80 can externally surround an upper end portion of the double sidewall sections 80 of the body box 1A. Except for these differences, the lid box 1B is basically similar to the box 1.

[0065] In the case of a packaging container 200 illustrated in FIG. 7(b), the box 1 is used as a body box 1A for containing an article to be packaged, and a thomson box, which is obtained by forming a blank, which is an unfolded sheet that will form a box, into a three-dimensional form by folding or the like, and is suitable for use as a lid, is used as a lid box 201 that is combined with the body box 1A.

[0066] In the case of a packaging container 300 illustrated in FIG. 7(c), a thomson box, which is obtained by forming a blank, which is an unfolded sheet that will form a box, into a three-dimensional form by folding and the like, and is suitable for use as a lid, is used as a body box 301, and a box that has a structure basically similar to that of the box 1 and is suitable for use as a lid is used as a lid box 1B that is combined with the body box 301.

[0067] In the case of a packaging container 400 illustrated in FIG. 7(d), a body box 301 and a lid box 1B are combined with each other as in FIG. 7(c). The double sidewall sections 80 of the lid box 1B has such a height dimension as to cover the entire side sections of the body box 301 when the body box 301 is closed by putting the lid box 1B thereon. As a result, the body box 301 is covered by the lid box 1B, so that the body box 301 is not seen from the outside, and therefore, the appearance of the packaging container 400 is the appearance of the lid box 1B. Therefore, if, although the body box 301 is a thomson box, the lid box 1B is a paper-covered box (the box of the present invention), the appearance of the packaging container 400 is the appearance of the paper-covered box. Thus, the packaging container 400 can have glamorous and attractive appearance and provide luxurious feel, and cost lower because a thomson box, which costs relatively low, is used as the body box.

[0068] The packaging containers 100, 200, 300, and 400 are thus configured such that at least one (1A, 1B) of a body box and a lid box constituting each of the packaging containers 100, 200, 300, and 400 can be transported and stored with the entirety thereof in a flat form in which the shape retention members 40 are not in an upright position, and in addition, can be converted into a three-dimensional form in which the box is ready for use, by an operation of folding the inner sections 30, together with the shape retention members 40, over toward the flat section 10. Therefore, the packaging containers 100, 200, 300, and 400 can be transported and stored in a flat form, and are easy to assemble.[Other Embodiments]

[0069] In the foregoing, the box, the method for assembling the box, and the packaging container according to the present invention have been described by way of embodiments. The present invention is not limited to the configurations described in the above embodiments. Changes and modifications can be made to the embodiment as appropriate without departing the scope of the present invention. Such variations will be described as first to tenth other embodiments. In the first to tenth other embodiments, like parts are indicated by like reference characters in the drawings and will not be redundantly described in detail. In the description that follows, parts different from those described in the above embodiments will be mainly described.<Inner Section>

[0070] FIG. 8 is a partially enlarged view of a main portion of an inner section of a box according to the present invention. FIG. 8(a) illustrates a bag one end of which is closed (first other embodiment). FIG. 8(b) illustrates a bag both ends of which are closed (second other embodiment). FIG. 8(c) illustrates belt-like holding sections (third other embodiment). FIG. 8(d) illustrates belt-like holding sections different from those of FIG. 8(c) (fourth other embodiment). FIG. 8(e) illustrates holding sections provided at four corners (fifth other embodiment). FIG. 8(f) illustrates a holding section both ends of which are in a flap shape (sixth other embodiment). The inner section preferably has a holding section capable of holding the shape retention member 40. Because the inner section has a holding section capable of holding the shape retention member 40, the shape retention member 40 can be prevented from being dislodged from the inner section. In addition, the shape retention member 40 can be held without the need of an adhesive tape, adhesive, or the like, and therefore, can be easily removed.

[0071] In the case of an inner section 30a of the first other embodiment of FIG. 8(a), a bag an end of which is closed is formed. As illustrated in FIG. 8(a), in the inner section 30a, a folding section 61 is linked as a holding section to a main surface section 31. When the folding section 61 is folded over to be joined to the main surface section 31 at an adhesion portion 33, a bag is formed. Furthermore, an end of the bag body is joined at an adhesion portion 34. A joining means for joining at the adhesion portions 33 and 34 is not particularly limited, and may, for example, be an adhesive, or a stitch made by sewing. The joining shape of the adhesion portions 33 and 34 are not limited to a linear shape, and may be partially joined. Because the inner section 30a has a bag an end of which is closed, when the shape retention member 40 is inserted through the opening of the bag, the shape retention member 40 is stopped at the closed deep end. As a result, the shape retention member 40 can be attached to the inner section 30a at a correct position.

[0072] In the case of an inner section 30b according to the second other embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8(b), a bag is formed as in FIG. 8(a). However, no folding section 61 is linked as a holding section to a main surface section 31. A section 61 is joined to the main surface section 31 at adhesion portions 33 to 35 with one end thereof left open.

[0073] In the case of an inner section 30c according to the third other embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8(c), belt sections 62 are linked as a holding section to a main surface section 31, and hold the shape retention member 40. In the case of the inner section 30c, when a box is assembled, the belt sections 62 are folded over toward the outer section 20, so that the shape retention member 40 is not seen, and therefore, design properties are not impaired.

[0074] In the case of an inner section 30d according to the fourth other embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8(d), belt-like holding sections are provided as in FIG. 8(c). However, no main surface section 31 is provided, and belt sections 62 are linked as a holding section to an outer section 20, so that the shape retention member 40 is held.

[0075] In the case of an inner section 30e according to the fifth other embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8(e), a corner piece 63 is linked as a holding section to each of the four corners of a main surface section 31, so that the shape retention member 40 is held.

[0076] In the case of an inner section 30f according to the sixth other embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8(f), a flap 64 is linked as a holding section to either side of a main surface section 31, so that the shape retention member 40 is held.<Locking Structure>

[0077] FIG. 9 illustrates a locking structure of a reinforcing member 50 and a shape retention member 40 of a box according to the seventh other embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9(a) is a diagram for describing a locking structure in which a recessed portion 51 of the reinforcing member is engaged with a protruding portion 41 of the shape retention member. FIG. 9(b) is a diagram for describing a locking structure in which a protruding portion 52 of the reinforcing member is engaged with a recessed portion 42 of the shape retention member. In FIG. 9, the inner section 30 is not illustrated. The reinforcing member 50 preferably has the recessed portion 51 or the protruding portion 52, which is formed at an outer peripheral edge thereof. The shape retention member 40 preferably has the protruding portion 41 or the recessed portion 42, which is engaged with the recessed portion 51 or the protruding portion 52, which is formed in the reinforcing member 50, when the shape retention member 40 is in an upright position. It should be noted that in the case where the inner section 30 is configured to entirely contain and cover the shape retention member 40 with a bag formed thereon, the protruding portion 41 of the shape retention member 40 is blocked by the bag and is not allowed to be engaged with the recessed portion 51 of the reinforcing member 50. In this case, the locking structure cannot be provided. Meanwhile, if a portion of the bag is cut, the protruding portion 41 of the shape retention member 40 can be exposed through the cut portion, so that the protruding portion 41 of the shape retention member 40 can be engaged with the recessed portion 51 of the reinforcing member 50. Therefore, in that case, the locking structure can be configured.

[0078] As illustrated in FIG. 9(a), the recessed portion 51 is formed at an outer peripheral edge of the reinforcing member 50 corresponding to each of the four sides of the reinforcing member 50. The recessed portion 51 is formed in the shape of a rectangular notch having a predetermined length in an outer peripheral portion of the reinforcing member 50 at a center in the length direction of each side of the reinforcing member 50. The shape retention member 40 is provided with the protruding portion 41 that is engaged with the recessed portion 51 of the reinforcing member 50, which is put on top of the flat section 10, when the shape retention member 40, together with the inner section 30, is put in an upright position by a folding operation.

[0079] Alternatively, the reinforcing member 50 may be engaged with the shape retention member 40 by a locking structure illustrated in FIG. 9(b). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 9(b), a protruding portion 52 is formed at an outer peripheral edge of the reinforcing member 50, corresponding to each of the four sides of the reinforcing member 50. The protruding portion 52 is formed, at an outer peripheral portion of the reinforcing member 50, in the shape of a rectangle protruding in a direction away from an outer peripheral surface of the reinforcing member 50 and having a predetermined length at a center in the length direction of each side of the reinforcing member 50. The shape retention member 40 is provided with a recessed portion 42 that is engaged with the protruding portion 52 of the reinforcing member 50, which is put on top of the flat section 10, when the shape retention member 40, together with the inner section 30, is put in an upright position by a folding operation described below.

[0080] Thus, when the reinforcing member 50 and the shape retention member 40 are locked by the recessed portion 51 or the protruding portion 52 of the reinforcing member 50 being engaged with the protruding portion 41 or the recessed portion 42 of the shape retention member 40, the relative movement of the shape retention member 40 along the outer peripheral edge of the reinforcing member 50 can be prevented. Therefore, the box body 5 can be inhibited from being deformed due to the effect of an external force, and therefore, the function of protecting contents in the box body 5 can be further improved. In addition, the entire box becomes tight, and therefore, the strength of the box itself can be further enhanced.<Fixing Means>

[0081] FIG. 10 illustrates a fixing means 75 according to the eighth other embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10(a) is a perspective view of a main portion of a box body 5 in an unfolded state. FIG. 10(b) is a perspective view of a main portion of a box body 5 with outer sections 20 in an upright position. As illustrated in FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b), the fixing means 75 includes a rhombic linking flap 71 for linking one of adjacent outer sections 20 (in FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b), the left outer section 20) to the other outer section 20 (in FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b), the right outer section 20), and an adhesive layer 72 that is a joining means for joining the linking flap 71 to, for example, the other outer section 20 (in FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b), the right outer section 20).

[0082] As illustrated in FIG. 10(a), the linking flap 71 is integrally linked to one outer section 20 with a fold line 77 interposed therebetween, and is integrally linked to the other outer section 20 with a fold line 78 interposed therebetweeen. The linking flap 71 has a fold line 79 that is positioned on a diagonal at the middle between one outer section 20 and the other outer section 20 so as to divide the linking flap 71 in half. Thus, the linking flap 71 prevents a gap from occurring between adjacent outer sections 20. The linking flap 71 can also be folded in half along the fold line 79, protruding inward, so as to make a mountain crease 70 inside the outer sections 20.

[0083] As illustrated in FIG. 10(b), the fixing means 75 is configured such that: the linking flap 71 is folded in half along a fold line 79, protruding inward, so as to make a mountain crease 70 inside the outer sections 20; for example, an adhesive is applied to the linking flap 71 folded in half and / or the other outer section 20 to form an adhesive layer 72 between the linking flap 71 folded in half and the other outer section 20; and the linking flap 71 folded in half and the other outer section 20 are put on top of each other with the adhesive layer 72 made of the adhesive interposed therebetween, which is then cured, so that the linking flap 71 folded in half and the other outer section 20 are fixed together. Thus, adjacent ones of the four outer sections 20 are fixed together by the fixing means 75, and therefore, the outer sections 20, which are flexible and are linked to the flat section 10, surrounding the flat section 10, can be easily formed. It should be noted that the two half surfaces facing each other of the linking flap 71 folded in half may optionally be fixed together by another adhesive layer.<Covering Structure>

[0084] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a main portion of an angular portion of a box body 5 in the middle of assembly, illustrating a covering structure according to the ninth other embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the box body 5 further includes an interior angle covering section 95 for covering an interior angle portion where adjacent outer sections 20 meet each other when the shape retention members 40, together with the inner sections 30, are put in an upright position by a folding operation (FIG. 11 illustrates a state before the interior angle covering section 95 is put in an upright position for the sake of convenience). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the box body 5 is configured such that the interior angle covering section 95 is provided between the inner section 30 linked to one of adjacent outer sections 20 (in FIG. 11, the left outer section 20) and the other outer section 20 (in FIG. 11, the right outer section 20).

[0085] The interior angle covering section 95 includes a webbing-like member that extends from the inner section 30 linked to one of adjacent outer sections 20 (in FIG. 11, the left outer section 20) to the other outer section 20 (in FIG. 11, the right outer section 20) along the inner surface. One side of the interior angle covering section 95 (in FIG. 11, the left side) is linked to the inner section 30 with a fold line 88 interposed therebetween, and the other side (in FIG. 11, the right side) is joined to an inner surface of the outer section 20 with an adhesive layer (not illustrated) interposed therebetween.

[0086] According to the ninth other embodiment, the interior angle covering section 95 is provided. Therefore, when the inner sections 30, together with the shape retention members 40, are folded over toward the flat section 10 to be put in an upright position, the interior angle covering section 95 covers an interior angle portion at which one of adjacent outer sections 20 (in FIG. 11, the left outer section 20) meets the other outer section 20 (in FIG. 11, the right outer section 20), i.e., an inner linking portion between one outer section 20 and the other outer section 20, and a portion therearound. As a result, the interior angle portion of the box body 5 has neat finished appearance, and if the interior angle covering section 95 is decorated with attractive colors, patterns, or the like, design properties can be improved.<Pocket Part>

[0087] FIG. 12 is an overall perspective view of a box according to the tenth other embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the inner section 30 is preferably provided with a pocket part 36 into which a functional member 37 is removably inserted. In this embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the pocket part 36 is provided on a side surface of the inner section 30. The functional member 37 can be inserted into the pocket part 36 as illustrated by an arrow in FIG. 12. Therefore, the pocket part 36 allows the functional member 37 to be easily replaced, depending on an article contained in the box 1. In this embodiment, the pocket part 36 is configured to be open upward when the inner section 30 is in an upright position. Alternatively, the pocket part 36 may be configured to be open sideways. In addition, a plurality of pocket parts 36 may be provided, and functional members 37 having different functions may be put in different pocket parts 36.

[0088] At least a portion of the pocket part 36 may be preferably made of mesh cloth. If the pocket part 36 has mesh cloth, then when, for example, a member containing a volatile substance is used as the functional member 37, the function of the volatile substance can be more effectively exhibited. In addition, if the pocket part 36 has mesh cloth, then when the functional member 37 is put in the pocket part 36, the pocket part 36 is stretched or contracted to closely fit the shape of the functional member 37, and therefore, the functional member 37 can be appropriately fixed to the inner section 30.

[0089] The functional member 37 is not particularly limited, as long as the functional member 37 has an effect suitable for an article contained in the box 1. Examples of the functional member 37 include ice packs, insect repellents, dehumidifying agents, and antifungal agents. In addition, if the functional member 37 is combined with a material for the shape retention member 40, a function of the box 1 can be further improved. For example, if a material having excellent heat insulating properties such as foamed polystyrene is used as the shape retention member 40, then when an ice pack is put as the functional member 37 in the pocket part 36, the box 1 can have the effect of excellently keeping its contents cool.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0090] The box and packaging container of the present invention are useful in fields such as the logistics industry, food industry, warehouse industry, travel industry, moving industry, package delivery industry, food delivery industry, and delivery involved in electronic commerce.REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

[0091] 1BOX 1ABODY BOX 1BLID BOX 10FLAT SECTION 20OUTER SECTION 30, 30a to 30fINNER SECTION 36POCKET PART 37FUNCTIONAL MEMBER 40SHAPE RETENTION MEMBER 41PROTRUDING PORTION OF SHAPE RETENTION MEMBER 42RECESSED PORTION OF SHAPE RETENTION MEMBER 45BASE MEMBER 46SUBSIDIARY MEMBER 50REINFORCING MEMBER 51RECESSED PORTION OF REINFORCING MEMBER 52PROTRUDING PORTION OF REINFORCING MEMBER 61FOLDING SECTION (HOLDING SECTION) 62BELT SECTION (HOLDING SECTION) 63CORNER PIECE (HOLDING SECTION) 64FLAP (HOLDING SECTION) 100, 200PACKAGING CONTAINER 201LID BOX (ANOTHER BOX) 300, 400PACKAGING CONTAINER 301BODY BOX (ANOTHER BOX)

Claims

1. A box comprising: a flat section forming a bottom surface or a top surface; a flexible outer section linked to the flat section, surrounding the flat section; an inner section linked to the outer section in a manner that allows the inner section to be folded over toward the flat section; and a shape retention member configured to maintain the inner section in an upright position with the inner section folded over toward the flat section, wherein the shape retention member is configured to be removalby attached to the inner section.

2. The box according to claim 1, wherein the inner section has a holding section configured to hold the shape retention member.

3. The box according to claim 2, wherein the holding section is configured as a bag body, wherein the shape retention member is allowed to be inserted into or removed from the bag body.

4. The box according to any one of clams 1 to 3, comprising a reinforcing member configured to be put on top of the flat section.

5. The box according to claim 4, wherein the reinforcing member has a recessed portion or a protruding portion formed at an outer peripheral edge thereof, and the shape retention member has a protruding portion or a recessed portion configured to be engaged with the recessed portion or the protruding portion of the reinforcing member when the shape retention member is in an upright position (provided that the box configured such that the inner section completely covers the shape retention member is excluded).

6. The box according to claim 3, wherein the bag body is formed as a bag, wherein one end of the bag is closed.

7. The box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the box is configured to be allowed to be folded up within an outline of the flat section as viewed from above.

8. The box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the inner section is provided with a pocket part, wherein a functional member is allowed to be inserted into and removed from the pocket part.

9. The box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the shape retention member has a base member configured to determine a shape thereof, and a subsidiary member configured to reinforce the base member.

10. A method for assembling the box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising: an attachment step of attaching the shape retention member to the inner section; and a raising step of folding the inner section over toward the flat section to put the inner section in an upright position.

11. A packaging container comprising: a first box that is the box according to any one of claims 1 to 3; and a second box configured to be combined with the first box.

Images