Packaging blank

Abstract

A packaging blank comprising scores for folding in assembly of a packaging product, the blank comprising: a side wall score; a front wall score; and a back wall score; the side wall score intersecting

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to packaging blanks, in particular to packaging blanks made of corrugated board. That is, the disclosure is concerned with blanks, i.e., a flat piece of material such as pieces of corrugated board, which have been cut and scored ready to be assembled, and to methods for assembling a blank into a packaging product. Background

[0002] Blanks of flat sheet material such as for packaging are well known, with cardboard being a popular choice. The material designation "corrugated packaging" is used to refer to a type of cardboard material commonly employed in this field. Corrugated packaging is made up of three layers of corrugated fibreboard. Corrugated packaging is a durable, cost-effective, and versatile packaging material that combines structural rigidity with cushioning qualified to protect heavy or fragile contents from damage. Corrugated packaging is also lightweight and therefore transport costs are reduced compared to other, heavier forms of packaging.

[0003] In many applications, corrugated packaging is initially produced as a flat piece that has been cut and scored with features to facilitate assembly into a packaging product. The flat piece is known as a blank. Scores on the blank are lines on which the blank is to be folded. Scores serve to reduce cracking from folding and provide an indication to a worker assembling the blank into a packaging product. In this way scores enable the assembled product to have clean folds and thereby give an aesthetically pleasing finish. Scores also give constancy in the assembled packaging product when assembling multiple blanks of the same product. Of comparable importance in terms of assembly, the cuts are formed to the shape and dimensions necessary to assemble the packaging product. For example, various features may be produced such as tabs, folds and cut outs. Such cuts and indeed scores are normally formed using a die, in a press or by rolling.

[0004] Once blanks have been produced to the desired dimensions and with the required cuts and scores, the blanks are then transported in flat form before they are assembled into a packaging product and then packed. Transporting the blanks when laid flat, i.e., before they are assembled, means that they occupy less space which reduces transport costs. However, even in flat form, fitting blanks with one another without gaps is an important consideration, in terms of transport cost.

[0005] After being transported the blanks are assembled into a packaging product, and then packed. These processes may take place in a factory before packed products are shipped to their next destination or may occur in a shop or similar location before the packaging product is packed and placed on display for consumers.

[0006] Current blanks that require large cutouts waste material, and do not fit well together when being transported in bulk in blank form. Similarly, the greater the required number of folding steps, and the amount of overlap of material in the finished packaging products, the higher costs due to increased amounts of time needed for assembly and materials, especially when large numbers of packaging products are being assembled.

[0007] Hence, a quick, efficient, and easy to understand method of assembling a packaging product that comprises a small number of fold steps and which is material-efficient is desirable. Summary

[0008] According to the present disclosure there are provided a packaging blank and method of assembling a packaging product as set out in the accompanying independent claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description which follows.

[0009] In one example, there is provided a packaging blank comprising scores for folding in assembly of a packaging product, the blank comprising: a side wall score; a front wall score; and a back wall score; the side wall score intersecting the front wall score and the back wall score, with a base portion of the blank, a back wall portion of the blank and a front wall portion of the blank to a first side of the side wall score, and with a folding connector to a second side of the side wall score; wherein: the folding connector comprises a first score that intersects the side wall score and the back wall score, and a second score that intersects the side wall score and the front wall score; characterised in that the first and second scores of the folding connector are angled relative to one another such that sequential folding of the first and second scores of the folding connector causes out of plane folding of the blank to form a back wall, front wall and side wall extending from the base portion of the blank.

[0010] With this arrangement, a small number of folding operations can produce a three-dimensional packaging product from the packaging blank, with effectively two corners produced, i.e. the corner between the base, front wall and side wall, and the corner between the base, back wall, and side wall.

[0011] In one example, the base portion of the blank, the backwall portion of the blank and the front wall portion of the blank are inside of the side wall score, and the folding connector is outside of the side wall score. That is, the folding connector extends from the side of the packaging blank, to form an outside edge region that is beyond the base portion to the side of the packaging blank. In one example, the folding connector is located away from the centre of the blank, on the outside thereof, for example away from a central area or centre line of the packaging blank.

[0012] With this arrangement, the folding connector can be readily manipulated for folding, and for transportation of the packaging blank a 180-degree fold made along the side wall score can bring the folding connector on top of the base portion to regularise and compact the footprint of the packaging bank for bulk transport.

[0013] In one example, the first and second scores of the folding connector are angled relative to one another such that sequential folding of the side wall score and then the first and second scores of the folding connector causes out of plane folding of the blank at the side wall score, the front wall score and backwall score to form a backwall, front wall and side wall extending from the base portion of the blank.

[0014] With this arrangement, the same first fold as is convenient for bulk transport purposes is employed when starting to assemble the packaging blank into the three-dimensional packaging product, which aids assembly.

[0015] In one example, the first and second scores of the folding connector intersect one another on the edge of the folding connector. In one example, the first and second scores of the folding connector intersect one another at an internal, re-entrant, or concave corner on the edge of the folding connector, for example a rebated internal corner.

[0016] With this arrangement, the first and second scores together fold more easily. By folding the first score and second score, the internal corner of the blank can become an external corner, for example when folds of 180-degrees are made at each of the first and second scores.

[0017] In one example, the first score of the folding connector comprises a cutout section, with a first end of the cutout section arranged toward a first end of the first score and a second end of the cutout section arranged to toward a second end of the first score, such that material between the first and second ends of the cutout section does not fold on folding of the first score. In one example the cutout section of the first score lies toward the centre of the first score. In one example, the first score is divided by the cutout section.

[0018] With this arrangement, folding along the first score is facilitated, as the material which has been removed from the cutout section is not there to resist folding.

[0019] In one example, the cutout section of the first score comprises a curved boundary, for example a smooth or continuous curved boundary. In one example, the cutout section of the first score comprises a curved shape. In one example, the cutout section of the first score comprises a shape that is curved in one direction in the plane of the packaging blank. In one example, the first score of the folding connector comprises a cutout section that is asymmetrically arranged with respect to a line of symmetry along the first score. In one example, the cutout section of the first score comprises a shape with a continuous, for example single, radius of curvature. In one example, the cutout section of the first score is C-shaped.

[0020] With this arrangement, the process of removing material from the packaging blank during manufacture is facilitated, as typical die stamping or rolling processes are more effective for curved forms, and the chance of unevenness, tearing or other undesirable distortions of the material are reduced.

[0021] In one example, the second score of the folding connector comprises a cutout section, with a first end of the cutout section arranged toward a first end of the second score and a second end of the cutout section arranged to toward a second end of the second score, such that material between the first and second ends of the cutout section does not fold on folding of the second score. In one example the cutout section of the second score lies toward the centre of the second score. In one example, the second score is divided by the cutout section.

[0022] In one example, the cutout section of the second score comprises a curved boundary, for example a smooth or continuous curved boundary. In one example, the cutout section of the second score comprises a curved shape. In one example, the cutout section of the second score comprises a shape that is curved in one direction in the plane of the packaging blank. In one example, the second score of the folding connector comprises a cutout section that is asymmetrically arranged with respect to a line of symmetry along the second score. In one example, the cutout section of the second score comprises a shape with a continuous, for example single, radius of curvature. In one example, the cutout section of the second score is C-shaped.

[0023] In one example, the cutout section of the first and second scores correspond to one another, such as in shape, and for example location on the folding connector. In one example, the cutout section of the first and second scores are the same shape as one another. In one example, the cutout sections of the first and second scores are symmetrically arranged with respect to the folding connector, for example either side of a line of symmetry that bisects the first and second scores.

[0024] In one example, the packaging blank comprises an adherent portion, by which the folding connector, when folded, adheres to the base portion.

[0025] With this arrangement, the assembled packaging product is more resilient to unwanted disassembly.

[0026] In one example, the adherent potion comprises the sole adherent connection between the folding connector, when folded, and the remainder of the packaging blank.

[0027] With this arrangement, the side wall, front wall, and back wall are adhered in place, in a manner that does not require separate application of adhesive for each side or each corner or edge where the walls meet.

[0028] In one example, the packaging blank further comprises a strain relieving cutout where the side wall score intersects the back wall score. In one example, the packaging blank further comprises a strain relieving cutout where the side wall score intersects the front wall score. In one example, the packaging blank further comprises a strain relieving cutout where the first and second scores of the folding connector intersect one another. In one example, the packaging blank further comprises a strain relieving cutout where the first score of the folding connector intersects the side wall score and the back wall score. In one example, the packaging blank further comprises a strain relieving cutout where the second score of the folding connector intersects the side wall score and the front wall score.

[0029] Strain relieving cutouts are provided such that folding at intersecting score lines is facilitated, and that neat and reliable corners and edges are formed on assembly of a packaging product from the packaging blank.

[0030] In one example, the packaging blank comprises a first side wall portion arranged between the folding connector and the back wall, for example, connecting between the folding connector and the back wall at the sidewall score and the back wall score.

[0031] With this arrangement, folding of the side wall score and / or the first score of the folding connector causes the first sidewall portion to move to extend above the base portion.

[0032] In one example, the first side wall portion is arranged between, such as lies between, the side wall score and the back wall score. In one example, the first side wall portion is bounded by the side wall score and the backwall score.

[0033] In one example, sequential folding of the side wall score and then the first score of the folding connector causes out of plane folding of the blank to form a backwall from the backwall portion, and a side wall from the first side wall portion, the back wall and first side wall extending above the base portion of the blank. In one example, sequential folding of the side wall score and then the first score of the folding connector causes out of plane folding of the blank to form a back wall from the back wall portion, and a side wall from the first side wall portion, the back wall and first side wall extending above the base portion of the blank from the backwall score.

[0034] With this arrangement, folding of the first side wall portion and the folding connector forms a back side corner for the assembled packaging product. With this arrangement, folding of the first side wall portion and the folding connector forms a back wall and a side wall for the assembled packaging product.

[0035] In one example, the sequential folding comprises inward folding of the folding connector by folding at the side wall score, and outward folding at the first score of the folding connector. In one example, inward folding of the folding connector by folding the side wall score comprises making a 180-degree fold. In one example, outward folding at the first score of the folding connector comprises making a180-degree fold.

[0036] In one example, inward folding of the folding connector by folding at the side wall score comprises bringing the folding connector into contact with the base portion of the blank, such as on to the base portion of the blank. The folding connector may for example be brought into alignment with the base portion of the blank, such as parallel to the base portion of the blank.

[0037] In one example, the sequential folding comprises inward folding of the folding connector by folding at the side wall score, and outward folding at the first score of the folding connector brings the portion of the back wall score that lies between the side wall portion and the connector portion into alignment with the side wall score.

[0038] In one example, the sequential folding comprises inward folding of the folding connector by folding at the side wall score, and outward folding at the first score of the folding connector forms the outer edge of the assembled packaging product.

[0039] In one example, the sequential folding comprises inward folding of the folding connector by folding at the side wall score, and outward folding at the first score of the folding connector forms the corner of the base, backwall, and side wall of the assembled packaging product.

[0040] In one example, the packaging blank comprises a second side wall portion arranged between the folding connector and the front wall.

[0041] In one example, the second side wall portion is arranged between, such as lies between, the side wall score and the front wall score. In one example, the second side wall portion is bounded by the side wall score and the front wall score.

[0042] In one example, sequential folding at the side wall score and then at the first score of the folding connector, followed by folding at the second score of the folding connector causes out of plane folding of the blank to form a front wall from the front wall portion, and a side wall reinforcement from the second side wall portion, the front wall and the side wall reinforcement extending above the base portion of the packaging blank.

[0043] In one example, sequential folding at the side wall score and then the first score of the folding connector followed by folding at the second score of the folding connector causes out of plane folding of the blank to form the back wall and the side wall from the respective portions, then the front wall and the side wall reinforcement from the front wall portion and the second side wall portion. In one example, sequential folding of the side wall score and then the first score of the folding connector followed by folding at the second score of the folding connector causes out of plane folding of the blank to form, sequentially, a side wall from the side wall portion, a back wall from the back wall portion, a front wall from the front wall portion, and a side wall reinforcement from the second side wall portion, wherein the backwall, side wall, front wall and side wall reinforcement extend above the base portion of the blank.

[0044] In one example, the side wall reinforcement forms a reinforcement adjacent, such as inside of, the side wall of the assembled packaging product. In one example, forming the side wall reinforcement forms a corner of the assembled packaging product, such as an exterior corner. In one example, forming the side wall reinforcement forms a corner at the base, front wall, and side of the assembled packaging product.

[0045] In one example, the sequential folding comprises inward folding of the folding connector at the side wall score, and an outward folding of the first score of the folding connector. In one example, the sequential folding comprises inward folding of the folding connector at the side wall score, an outward folding at the first score of the folding connector, and then outward folding at the second score of the folding connector.

[0046] In one example one, two or three of the sequential folds comprises a 180-degree fold.

[0047] In one example, the sequential folding brings the folding connector into contact with the base portion of the packaging blank. In one example, the sequential folding brings the folding connector into contact with the base portion of the packaging blank, then back onto itself. In one example, the sequential folding brings the folding connector into contact with the base portion of the packaging blank, then back onto itself twice.

[0048] In one example, the sequential folding brings the portion of the front wall score that lies between the front wall portion and the connector portion into alignment with the side wall score.

[0049] In one example, the sequential folding brings the folded front wall score and back wall score into alignment with one another, such as onto one another, or into parallel alignment with each other. In one example the sequential folding brings the front wall score and back wall score into alignment at, or on, an edge of the assembled packaging product, such as the edge between the base and the side wall of the assembled packaging product.

[0050] In one example, the back wall score and front wall score comprise a cooperating tab and slot arrangement, with one of the tab / slot provided on the back wall score and the other of the tab / slot provided on the front wall score. In one example the back wall score forms the slot and the front wall score forms the tab. In another example, the tab and slot is reversed such that the back wall score forms the tab and the front wall score forms the slot. In one example, sequential folding of the first and second scores of the folding connector brings the tab and slot into engagement with one another. In one example, by sequentially folding the first and second scores of the folding connector the tab projects from the line of the front wall score at 90-degrees, and engages the opening formed by the slot in the back wall score. In one, example the position and operation of the tab and slot in the arrangement is such that each is located on the edges of the folding connector such that they meet one another when the packaging product.

[0051] With this arrangement, the assembled packaging product can retain its form, as the tab / slot arrangement resists unfolding at the folded scores.

[0052] In one example, the tab / slot are provided outside of the side wall score, at a portion of the boundary of the folding connector. In one example, the tab / slot are provided along the front and back wall scores equidistant from the side wall score such that on sequential folding they come into engagement, such engagement being as a result of alignment of the portions of the boundary of the folding connector.

[0053] In one example, sequential folding of the sidewall score, and first and second first scores of the folding connector brings the tab and slot into engagement with one another to hold the folding connector in position against the base of the assembled packaging product.

[0054] With this arrangement, the assembled packaging product can retain its form, as the tab / slot arrangement resists unfolding at the folded scores of the folding connector, with back wall, front wall and first and second side wall portions in position in the assembled packaging product.

[0055] In one example, the side wall reinforcement portions comprise a tab extension which, on folding, locates in a cutout in the side wall score. The side wall reinforcement portions, in the original configuration of the packaging blank prior to assembly project outwardly, and in the assembled packaging product extend into the back wall, through the cutout to engage the cutout and resist unfolding of the second score of the folding connector.

[0056] In one example, the packaging blank further comprises a second folding connector, such second folding connector comprising the features set out for the folding connector as herein described. That is, scores and / or cutouts of the packaging blank provide a second folding connector configured such that sequential folding of the first and second scores of the second folding connector causes a corresponding out of plane folding of the blank to form the back wall, the front wall and a second side wall extending from the base portion of the blank. In one example, the front wall score of the packaging blank that is sequentially folded as part of assembly of the packaging product when folding the folding connector and the second folding connector is the same front wall score. In one example, the backwall score of the packaging blank that is sequentially folded as part of assembly of the packaging product when folding the folding connector and the second folding connector is the same back wall score. In one example, the front wall score and back wall score of the packaging blank that are sequentially folded as part of assembly of the packaging product when folding the folding connector and the second folding connector is the same front wall score and back wall score.

[0057] In one example of the packaging blank, the folding connector and the second folding connector are arranged at opposed sides of the packaging blank. In one example, the second folding connector is bounded by a second side wall score. In one example the folding connector and second folding connector are symmetrically arranged on the packaging blank, for example with reference to a centre line midway between side wall scores.

[0058] In one example, the scores are linear, such as rectilinear. In one example, the front and back wall scores are parallel to one another. In one example the front and side wall score(s) are perpendicular to one another. In one example, the back and side wall score(s) are parallel to one another. In one example, the side wall scores are parallel to one another. In one example the scores of the first and second score of the or each folding connector are perpendicular to each other. In one example, the front wall score, and / or the back wall score intersect perpendicularly with the side wall score(s), for example such that the base portion of the packaging blank comprises a rectangle.

[0059] In one example, the front wall score is parallel to a front edge of the packaging blank. In one example, the back wall score is parallel to a back edge of the packaging blank. In one example, the back wall score is further from a back edge of the packaging blank than the front wall score is from a front edge thereof. In one example the first and second scores of each of the folding connector(s) intersect one another centrally with respect to the base portion, such as centrally between the front wall score and back wall score.

[0060] In one example, the packaging blank comprises a planar sheet of material. In one example, the packaging blank comprises a semirigid material. In one example, the packaging blank comprises a cardboard material. In one example, the packaging blank comprises a corrugated cardboard. In one example, the packaging blank comprises a multilayer material, for example a three-layer material. In one example, the packaging blank comprises corrugated packaging material.

[0061] In one example, the packaging blank comprises a unitary construction. In one example, the packaging blank comprises scores and / or cutouts imparted thereon, without additional material added thereto.

[0062] In one example, there is provide a method of assembling a packaging product from the packaging blank as described herein. In one example the method comprising sequentially folding the first and second scores of the folding connector, to thereby cause out of plane folding of the blank to form a back wall, front wall and side wall extending from the base portion of the blank.

[0063] In one example, the method comprises folding the sidewall score first, then sequentially folding the first and then second scores of the folding connector.

[0064] In one example, there is provided a packaging product assembled from a blank as described herein or assembled according to a method as described herein. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0065] Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic top view of a packaging blank, according to an example embodiment; Figure 2 is a schematic top view of the packaging blank shown in Figure 1, partly folded for transportation; Figure 3 is a schematic top view of the packaging blank shown in Figure 1, folded for transportation; Figure 4 is a perspective view of the flat blank shown in Figure 1, folded during an early part of a method of assembly; Figure 5 is a perspective view of the flat blank shown in Figure 1, folded during a later part of a method of assembly; Figure 6 is a perspective view of the flat blank shown in Figure 1, further folded during a method of assembly; Figure 7 is a perspective view of the flat blank shown in Figure 1, with a folding connector fully folded, during a method of assembly; Figure 8 is a perspective view of the flat blank shown in Figure 1, assembled into a packaging product; Figure 9 is a schematic side view of the flat blank shown in Figure 1; Figure 10 is a perspective view of a packaging product according to an example embodiment; and Figure 11 is a schematic of a method according to another embodiment. Detailed Description

[0066] Figure 1 is a schematic top view of a packaging blank 100 according to an example embodiment. The packaging blank 100 comprises a planar sheet of corrugated packaging to be assembled into a packaging product, such as shown in Figure 8, or Figure 10. A side view of the corrugated packaging material is shown schematically in Figure 9, with a corrugated layer provided between outer sheets.

[0067] The central part of the packaging blank 100 comprises a base portion 10 which forms the base of the assembled packaging product. Similarly, the packaging blank 100 comprises a backwall portion 20 which forms the back wall of the assembled packaging product and a front wall portion 30 which forms the front wall of the assembled packaging product. Between the base portion 10 and the back wall portion 20 is a backwall score 12. Between the base portion 10 and the front wall portion 30 is a front wall score 13. The back wall score 12 and the front wall score 13 are parallel to one another. The base portion 10 is further bounded by side wall scores 21,22, which are at opposite sides of the base portion 10, in this example to the right and left side respectively. The side wall scores 21,22 are parallel to one another, and further are perpendicular to the back and front wall scores 12, 13 such that the base portion 10 is in the shape of a rectangle. In the example packaging blank 100 there is reflective symmetry about a centre line through the middle of the base portion 10, parallel to the side wall scores 21,22.

[0068] Outside of the side wall scores 21, 22 are folding connectors 31, 31'. In the description of the packaging blank 100, the side wall score 21 is referred to as the first side wall score and the folding connector 31 is referred to as the first folding connector. The features of the first side wall score 21 and the first folding connector 31 apply correspondingly to the second side wall score 22 and the second folding connector 31'. The folding connectors 31,31' extend from the side of the packaging blank 100, to form an outside edge region that is beyond the base portion 10, to the sides thereof.

[0069] The scores referred to on the packaging blank 100 are formed by a partial cutting method, either by pressing or rolling, and may comprise a partial depth cut and / or intermittent cut. Other methods may be employed such as laser scoring. As a result of such operations, each score forms a line of weakness at which the packaging blank 100 may be more easily folded.

[0070] The first side wall score 21 intersects the front wall score 13 and the back wall score 12, with the base portion 10, the back wall portion 20 and the front wall portion 30 to a first side of the side wall score 21. Across the packaging blank 100, to facilitate folding, where scores intersect, strain relieving cutouts 2 are provided. These, and other cutout regions of the packaging blank 100 are suitably formed in the same operation that produces the scores.

[0071] The first folding connector 31 is provided on the second side of the side wall score 21. Between the first folding connector 31 and the back wall portion 20 is a side wall portion 40. In the example shown, the first side is the left, and the second side is the right. These correspond to the inside and outside of the packaging blank 100 respectively. As will be appreciated, for the second side wall score 22 and the second folding connector 31', the inside and outside descriptions correspond, but left and right are interchanged. The elements which are common between the first and second sides of the packaging blank are labelled using the number-dash "N "and "N' "format, where there is correspondence.

[0072] The first folding connector 31 comprises a first score 311 that intersects the first side wall score 21 and the back wall score 12, and a second score 312 that intersects the first side wall score 21 and the front wall score 13. The first and second scores 311,312 of the first folding connector 31 are angled relative to one another such that sequential folding of the first and second scores 311, 312 of the first folding connector 31 causes out of plane folding of the packaging blank 100 to form the backwall portion 20, front wall portion 30 and side wall portion 40 of the packaging blank 100 into a back wall, front wall and side wall that extend from the base portion 10 of the packaging blank 100.

[0073] With this arrangement, a small number of folding operations produces a three-dimensional back, side and front wall of a packaging product from the packaging blank 100. That is, effectively two corners are produced, i.e. the corner between the base, front wall and side wall, and the corner between the base, backwall, and side wall.

[0074] Figure 4 shows the first side wall score 21 folded inwards by 180-degrees, so that the first folding connector 31, at least in the parts adjacent to the first side wall score 21, lie against the base portion 10. From this position, the first score 311 of the first folding connector 31 is folded outwards by 180-degrees, to assume the configuration shown in Figure 5. Here, the first folding connector 31 folds onto itself at the parts adjacent to the first score 311. A C-shaped cutout 321 on the blank 100 facilitates folding at the first score 311 of the first folding connector 31, by removing material along the fold line. The curved shape of the cutout 321 is also helpful in easing separation of material cut out of the packaging blank 100 to form the cutout 321, and is relatively resistant to tearing or deformation along the cutout edge. In this way, the backwall and the first side wall are formed in the assembled packaging product.

[0075] In Figure 5 the second score 312 of the first folding connector 31 is partially folded. The front wall score 31 is folded partially outwards. As the second score 312 of the first folding connector 31 is folded outwards the first folding connector 31, at least in the parts adjacent to the second score 312, folds against itself. A C-shaped cutout 322 on the blank 100 facilitates folding at the second score 312 of the first folding connector 31, as described for the cutout 321.

[0076] From this position, the second score 312 of the first folding connector 31 is folded inwards to a total of 180-degrees, to assume the configuration shown in Figure 6. Here, folding the first folding connector 31 onto itself at the parts adjacent to the second score 312 forms the front wall, and provides a reinforcement for the first side wall, inside of the first side wall.

[0077] As visible in Figures 5 and 7, amongst others, the packaging blank 100 comprises a second side wall portion 42 arranged between the first folding connector 31 and the front wall portion 30. Sequential folding at the side wall score 21 and then the first score 311 of the folding connector 31 followed by folding at the second score 312 of the folding connector 31 causes out of plane folding of the blank 100 to form the back wall and side wall from the respective portions, and to form the front wall and side wall reinforcement from the front wall portion and second side wall portion respectively. Sequential folding of the side wall score 21 and then the first score 311 of the folding connector 31 followed by folding at the second score 312 of the folding connector 31 causes out of plane folding of the blank 100 to form, sequentially, a side wall from the side wall portion 40, a back wall from the back wall portion 20, a front wall from the front wall portion 30, and a side wall reinforcement from the second side wall portion 42, wherein the back wall, side wall, front wall and side wall reinforcement extend above the base portion 10 of the blank 100.

[0078] The back wall score 12 and front wall score 13 comprise a cooperating tab and slot arrangement. The backwall score 12 forms the slot 121, and the front wall score 13 forms the tab 131. In moving to the arrangement of Figure 6 by sequential folding at the scores, the tab 131 projects from the line of the front wall score 13 at 90-degrees, and engages the opening formed by the slot 121 in the back wall score 12. As will be appreciated, the position and operation of the tab 131 and slot 121 in the arrangement is such that each is located on the edges of the folding connector 31 which meet one another when the packaging product is assembled. The tab / slot could be reversed. With the tab 131 engaged with the slot 121 along the edge of the assembled packaging product, the assembled packaging product can retain its form, as the tab / slot arrangement resists unfolding at the folded scores. That is to say when the second score 312 of the folding connector 31 is folded outward to a total of 180-degrees, the tab 131 is located such that it extends through the slot 121, securing the folding connector such that it remains folded outward at 180-degrees,

[0079] For additional security, the side wall reinforcement portions comprise a tab extension 421 which on folding locates in a cutout 211 in the side wall score 21. The side wall reinforcement portions, in the original configuration of the packaging blank 100 prior to assembly project outwardly, and in the assembled packaging product extend into the back wall, through the cutout 211 to engage the cutout 211 and resist unfolding of the second score 312 of the folding connector 31. That is to say when the second score 312 of the folding connector 31 is folded outward to a total of 180-degrees, the tab extension 421 is located such that it extends through the cutout 211, securing the folding connector such that it remains folded outward at 180-degrees,For additional security, an adhesive point 50 or line may be provided, such as on the base portion 10, or between the cutout sections 321,322 on the folding connector 31, with the side wall, front wall, and back wall effectively all adhered in place with a single application of adhesive to their interconnecting folded connector 31.

[0080] As will be appreciated, to assemble the packaging blank 100 into a packaging product as shown in Figures 8 and 10, corresponding features are provided, and operations performed for the second folding connector 31', and the related components at the second side of the packaging blank 100. Figure 10 shows the assembled packaging product, which is suitably a display packaging for items to be sold in a supermarket. As will be appreciated from Figures 8 and 10, dimensions such as the side to side width of the base portion 10 may vary in different embodiments, and the relative dimensions of the back wall portion 20, and side wall portions 40, 42 may also vary in scale between embodiments, according to a desired packaging product size after assembly. Figures 2 and 3 show folded transportation configurations which save space when transporting the packaging blanks 100 prior to assembly.

[0081] Figure 11 shows the steps of folding a side wall score, first score of the folding connector and second score of the folding connector in sequence, as an example. These operations cause out of plane folding of the blank 100 to form a back wall, front wall and side wall, each extending from the base portion of the blank as described.

[0082] By way of the features described above, a packaging blank 100 which is material-efficient, and relatively easily transported and assembled is produced, such as may be used in product display or sale in a supermarket or similar.

[0083] Although a few example embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.

[0084] Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to, this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0085] All the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and / or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0086] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0087] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. A packaging blank comprising scores for folding in assembly of a packaging product, the blank comprising:a side wall score,a front wall score, anda back wall score,the side wall score intersecting the front wall score and the back wall score, with a base portion of the blank, a back wall portion of the blank and a front wall portion of the blank to a first side of the side wall score, and with a folding connector to a second side of the side wall score; wherein:the folding connector comprises a first score that intersects the side wall score and the back wall score, and a second score that intersects the side wall score and the front wall score; characterised in that the first and second scores of the folding connector are angled relative to one another such that sequential folding of the first and second scores of the folding connector causes out of plane folding of the blank to form a back wall, front wall and side wall extending from the base portion of the blank.

2. The packaging blank of claim 1, wherein the base portion of the blank, the back wall portion of the blank and the front wall portion of the blank are inside of the side wall score, and the folding connector is outside of the side wall score.

3. The packaging blank of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second scores of the folding connector are angled relative to one another such that sequential folding of the side wall score and then the first and second scores of the folding connector causes out of plane folding of the blank at the side wall score, the front wall score and the back wall score to form a back wall, front wall and side wall extending from the base portion of the blank.

4. The packaging blank of claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the first and second scores of the folding connector intersect one another on the edge of the folding connector.

5. The packaging blank of any preceding claim 4, wherein the first and second scores of the folding connector intersect one another at an internal corner on the edge of the folding connector.

6. The packaging blank of any preceding claim, wherein the first score of the folding connector comprises a cutout section, with a first end of the cutout section arranged toward a first end of the first score and a second end of the cutout section arranged to toward a second end of the first score, such that material between the first and second ends of the cutout section does not fold on folding of the first score.

7. The packaging blank of claim 6, wherein the cutout section comprises a curved boundary, for example a smooth or continuous curved boundary.

8. The packaging blank of claim 6 or 7, wherein the first score of the folding connector comprises a cutout section that is asymmetrically arranged with respect to a line of symmetry along the first score.

9. The packaging blank of claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein the cutout section of the first score comprises a curved shape, such as a C-shape.

10. The packaging blank of any preceding claim wherein the second score of the folding connector comprises a cutout section, with a first end of the cutout section arranged toward a first end of the second score and a second end of the cutout section arranged to toward a second end of the second score, such that material between the first and second ends of the cutout section does not fold on folding of the second score.

11. The packaging blank of claim 10, wherein the cutout section of the second score comprises the features of the cutout section of the first score as defined in any one of claims 7, 8 or 9.

12. The packaging blank of any preceding claim, comprising an adherent portion, by which the folding connector, when folded, adheres the base portion.

13. The packaging blank of claim 12, wherein the adherent potion comprises the sole adherent connection between the folding connector, when folded, and the remainder of the packaging blank.

14. The packaging blank of any preceding claim, comprising one or more a strain relieving cutouts where scores meet, the strain relieving cutout(s) provided: where the side wall score intersects the back wall score; where the side wall score intersects the front wall score; where the first and second scores of the folding connector intersect one another; where the first score of the folding connector intersectsthe side wall score and the back wall score; and / or where the second score of the folding connector intersects the side wall score and the front wall score.

15. The packaging blank of any preceding claim, comprising a first side wall portion arranged between the folding connector and the back wall.

16. The packaging blank of claim 15, wherein the first side wall portion is arranged between, the side wall score and the back wall score.

17. The packaging blank of claim 15 or 16, wherein sequential folding of the side wall score and then the first score of the folding connector causes out of plane folding of the blank to form a backwall from the back wall portion, and a side wall from the first side wall portion, the back wall and the first side wall extending above the base portion of the blank.

18. The packaging blank of claim 17, wherein the sequential folding comprises inward folding of the folding connector by folding the packaging blank at the side wall score, and outward folding of the first score of the folding connector.

19. The packaging blank of any preceding claim, comprising a second side wall portion arranged between the folding connector and the front wall.

20. The packaging blank of claim 17 or claims 18 or 19 as dependent on claim 17, wherein the second side wall portion is arranged between, the side wall score and the front wall score.

21. The packaging blank of claim 17, or any one of claims 18 to 20 as dependent on claim 17, wherein sequential folding at the side wall score and then the first score of the folding connector, followed by folding of the second score of the folding connector causes further out of plane folding of the blank to form a front wall from the front wall portion, and a side wall reinforcement from the second side wall portion, the front wall and side wall reinforcement extending above the base.

22. The packaging blank of claim 17, or any one of claims 18 to 21 as dependent on claim 17, wherein the sequential folding comprises inward folding of the folding connector at the side wall score, and an outward folding at the first score of the folding connector, and then outward folding at the second score of the folding connector.

23. The packaging blank of any preceding claim, wherein the back wall score and front wall score comprise a cooperating tab and slot arrangement, with one of the tab / slot provided on the back wall score and the other of the tab / slot provided on the front wall score.

24. The packaging blank of claim 23, wherein the tab / slot are provided outside of the side wall score, on the boundary of the folding connector.

25. The packaging blank of claim 23 or 24, wherein sequential folding of folding of the first and second scores of the folding connector brings the tab and slot into engagement with one another.

26. The packaging blank of any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein sequential folding of the sidewall score, and the first and second first scores of the folding connector brings the tab and slot into engagement with one another to hold the folding connector in position against the base of the assembled packaging product.

27. A packaging blank as set out in any preceding claim, further comprising a second folding connector as set out in any preceding claim, the second folding connector configured such that sequential folding of the first and second scores of the second folding connector causes a corresponding out of plane folding of the blank to form the back wall, the front wall and a second side wall extending from the base portion of the blank.

28. The packaging blank of claim 27, wherein the folding connector and the second folding connector are arranged at opposed sides of the packaging blank.

29. A method of assembling a packaging product from the packaging blank as set out in any preceding claim, the method comprising sequentially folding the first and second scores of the folding connector, to thereby causes out of plane folding of the blank to form a back wall, front wall and side wall extending from the base portion of the blank.

30. The method of assembling of claim 29, further comprising folding the sidewall score first, then sequentially folding the first and second scores of the folding connector.

31. A packaging product assembled from the blank of any one of claims 1 to 28 or assembled according to the method of claim 29 or 30.A

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