Carton with dispenser

Abstract

A carton for holding a plurality of sheets of sheet-like material includes a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carton and a dispenser extending within at least one of the plurality of panels. The dispenser includes at least a first dispenser flap and a second dispenser flap, at least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap being foldably connected to the panel, and at least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap being biased toward a closed position. The first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are configured to engage at least one of the plurality of sheets extending at least partially through the dispenser to at least partially retain the at least one sheet.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 427,652 (November 23, 2022). INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE The disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 427,652 (November 23, 2022) is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes as if set forth herein in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] Background to the disclosure This disclosure relates generally to cartons / boxes for holding and / or dispensing sheet-like materials or other types of articles. More specifically, this disclosure relates to dispensers for dispensing sheet-like materials, such as facial tissues, towels, wipes, cloths, etc., from cartons / boxes. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Disclosure Overview In general, one aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a carton for holding sheet-like materials arranged in a plurality of sheets. The carton can include a plurality of panels extending at least partially around the interior of the carton and a dispenser extending within at least one of the plurality of panels. The dispenser can include at least a first dispenser flap and a second dispenser flap, at least one of which can be foldably connected to the panel. At least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap can be biased toward a closed position. The first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap can be configured to engage at least one of the plurality of sheets extending at least partially through the dispenser to at least partially hold the at least one sheet.

[0004] In another aspect, the present disclosure is generally directed to a package including a carton and sheet-like material arranged in a plurality of sheets. The carton can include a plurality of panels extending at least partially around the interior of the carton and a dispenser extending within at least one of the plurality of panels. The dispenser can include at least a first dispenser flap and a second dispenser flap, at least one of which can be foldably connected to the panel. At least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap can be biased toward a closed position. The first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap can be configured to engage at least one of the plurality of sheets extending at least partially through the dispenser to at least partially retain the at least one sheet.

[0005] In another aspect, the present disclosure generally relates to a blank for forming a carton for holding sheet-like materials arranged in a plurality of sheets. The blank can include a plurality of panels and a dispenser mechanism extending into at least one of the plurality of panels to form a dispenser in a carton formed from the blank. The dispenser can include at least a first dispenser flap and a second dispenser flap, at least one of which can be foldably connected to the panel. At least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap can be biased toward a closed position. The first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap can be configured to engage at least one of the plurality of sheets extending at least partially through the dispenser to at least partially retain the at least one sheet when the carton is formed from the blank.

[0006] In another aspect, the present disclosure is generally directed to a method of forming a carton for holding sheet-like material arranged in a plurality of sheets. The method can include obtaining a blank including a plurality of panels and a dispenser feature extending within at least one of the plurality of panels. The dispenser feature can include at least a first dispenser flap and a second dispenser flap, and at least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap can be foldably connected to the panels. The method can further include forming the carton by folding the plurality of panels to extend at least partially around an interior of the carton. The first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap can be configured to engage at least one of the plurality of sheets extending at least partially through the dispenser to at least partially retain the at least one sheet. At least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap can be biased toward a closed position.

[0007] Those skilled in the art will appreciate these and other advantages and benefits of various additional embodiments upon reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the figures listed below.

[0008] According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the blank dispenser of FIG. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a plan view of a blank similar to that of FIG. 1 with an alternative dispenser configuration. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a package including a carton / box formed from the blank of FIG. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A illustrates the opening of the dispenser of the carton of FIG. 3 and dispensing of sheets of material from the package according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B illustrates the opening of the dispenser of the carton of FIG. 3 and dispensing of sheets of material from the package according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 illustrates the opening of the dispenser of the carton of FIG. 3 and dispensing of sheets of material from the package according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A illustrates the opening of the dispenser of the carton of FIG. 3 and dispensing of sheets of material from the package according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B illustrates the opening of the dispenser of the carton of FIG. 3 and dispensing of sheets of material from the package according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A illustrates a sheet of material in a ready position extending partially through a dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B illustrates a sheet of material in a ready position extending partially through a dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C illustrates a sheet of material in a ready position extending partially through a dispenser according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a plan view of a portion of a blank having an alternative embodiment of a dispenser. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A is a detailed view of portions of the blank of FIG. 9 showing the dispenser features of the blank. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a detailed view of portions of the blank of FIG. 9 showing the dispenser features of the blank. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A illustrates a dispenser opening of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 9 according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] 11B is a diagram illustrating a dispenser opening of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 9 according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A illustrates a sheet of material in a ready position extending partially through the dispenser of the carton of FIGS. 11A and 11B, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B illustrates a sheet of material in a ready position extending partially through the dispenser of the carton of FIGS. 11A and 11B, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14A] FIG. 14A is a detailed view of portions of the blank of FIG. 13 showing the dispenser features of the blank. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B is a detailed view of portions of the blank of FIG. 13 showing the dispenser features of the blank. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 illustrates a dispenser opening of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 13 according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 illustrates a dispenser opening of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 13 according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17A] FIG. 17A illustrates a sheet of material in a ready position extending partially through the dispenser of the carton of FIGS. 15 and 16 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17B]FIG. 17B illustrates a sheet of material in a ready position extending partially through the dispenser of the carton of FIGS. 15 and 16 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numerals throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION The present disclosure generally relates to boxes / cartons that contain items such as sheet-like materials. For purposes of illustration, and not for purposes of limiting the scope of the disclosure, the following detailed description describes sheet-like materials such as paper tissues, cloth items, wet wipes, and the like. In exemplary embodiments, the sheet-like materials can include consumer and hygiene products. The sheet-like materials can be made from materials suitable for consumer / hygiene applications, including, but not limited to, polymers / plastics such as polyester, polypropylene, and / or rayon fibers formed into sheets, natural / renewable materials such as cotton formed into sheets, wood pulp, composite materials, woven and / or nonwoven materials, and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0012] A carton according to the present disclosure can accommodate articles of any shape. For purposes of illustration, and not for purposes of limiting the scope of the present disclosure, the following detailed description describes sheeted materials (e.g., tissues, towels, wipes, etc.) that can be interleaved or singly sheeted for placement within carton embodiments. As used herein, the terms "inner," "outer," "internal," "exterior," "lower," "bottom," "upper," and "top" refer to orientations determined with respect to a fully assembled carton and an upright carton. As described herein, a carton / box can be formed from a blank by gluing together multiple panels, sections, tabs, and / or flaps. Such panels, sections, tabs, and / or flaps may be designated herein in consecutive or non-consecutive reference to one another, e.g., "first," "second," "third," etc., without departing from the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the exterior 101 of a blank, generally designated 103, used to form a carton or box 105 ( FIG. 3 ) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure). Box 105 can be used to contain multiple items, such as sheet-like material M (e.g., interleaved tissues, wipes, or towels) ( FIGS. 5 and 6B-7C ), such that box 105 and container C form package 106 ( FIGS. 3-7C ). In an embodiment, sheet-like material M can be an arrangement of multiple sheet-like materials disposed within box 105 to form package 106. As described in more detail below, box 105 has a dispenser, generally designated 107, for providing access to sheet-like material M within package 106.

[0014] The blank 103 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a transverse axis L2. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 103 includes a top panel 115 foldably connected to a first side panel 117 at a first transverse fold line 119, a bottom panel 121 foldably connected to the first side panel 117 at a second transverse fold line 123, and a second side panel 125 foldably connected to the top panel 115 at a third transverse fold line 127. And, an attachment flap 129 is foldably connected to the second side panel 115 at a fourth transverse fold line 131. Any of the top and bottom panels 115, 121 and the side panels 117, 125 may be omitted or otherwise shaped, arranged, and / or configured without departing from this disclosure. For example, the attachment flap 129 may be foldably connected to the bottom panel 121. Additionally, the blank 103 may alternatively include two top panels that cooperate to form the top of the box, two bottom panels that cooperate to form the bottom of the box, or two side panels that cooperate to form one of the sides of the box.

[0015] The top panel 115 is foldably connected to first top end flap 133 and second top end flap 135. The first side panel 117 is foldably connected to first side end flap 137 and second side end flap 139. The bottom panel 121 is foldably connected to first bottom end flap 141 and second bottom end flaps 143. The second side panel 125 is foldably connected to first side end flap 145 and second side end flaps 147. When the box 105 is assembled, the top end flaps 133 and bottom end flaps 141 and side end flaps 137 and 145 close a first end 191 a of the box 105 ( FIG. 3 ), and the top end flaps 135 and bottom end flaps 143 and side end flaps 139 and 147 close a second end 191 b of the box 105 ( FIG. 3 ). According to alternative embodiments of the present disclosure, different flap configurations can be used to at least partially close the ends 191a, 191b of the box 105.

[0016] In the illustrated embodiment, top end flap 133 and bottom end flaps 141 and side end flaps 137 and 145 extend along a first peripheral region of blank 103 and are foldably connected at a first longitudinal fold line 162 that extends along the length of the blank. Also in the illustrated embodiment, top end flap 135 and bottom end flaps 143 and side end flaps 139 and 147 extend along a second peripheral region of blank 103 and are foldably connected at a second longitudinal fold line 164 that also extends along the length of the blank. The longitudinal fold lines 162, 164 may, for example, be substantially straight or offset in one or more locations to account for blank thickness or other factors.

[0017] 1 and 2, the blank 103 can include a dispenser 107 and / or an engagement mechanism and dispenser mechanism for forming the dispenser 107 within the box 105 (FIG. 3), which can provide one or more surfaces for receiving a human hand to open the box and dispense the sheet material from the packaging. In the illustrated embodiment, the dispenser mechanism can include two outer panels or dispenser flaps 171 (e.g., a first dispenser flap and a second dispenser flap) (or any suitable number of dispenser flaps 171) and an inner panel or dispenser panel 173 extending along and removably attached to the dispenser flaps 171 to initiate opening of the dispenser 107. When the dispenser panel 173 is removed from the box 105 (FIGS. 4A and 4B), a dispenser opening 175 (FIG. 5) of the dispenser 107 is exposed, allowing the sheet material M to be selectively dispensed from the box. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the dispenser flaps 171 are defined in the blank 103 by cut or tear and fold lines. For example, the dispenser flaps 171 can be foldably connected to the top panel 115 along respective arcuate fold lines 177 and can be separable from the top panel 115 along arcuate tear lines 179. In embodiments, the fold lines 177 can be cut fold lines that are curved to be concave relative to the dispenser flaps 171, and the fold lines 177 can extend primarily in the transverse direction L2. Alternatively, the fold lines 177 can be any suitable style of fold line and / or can have any suitable shape and / or orientation. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the tear lines 179 can be in the form of cuts separated by notches, or can be any suitable style of tear or cut line. In the illustrated embodiment, the tear lines 179 may be curved (e.g., gradual radial longitudinal cut lines) and may extend from each end of the arcuate fold lines 179 such that the shape of the dispenser 107 is oval. Alternatively, the fold lines 177, tear lines 179, and / or the dispenser 107 may have any suitable shape.In embodiments, the dispenser flaps 171 may be separable from one another along a transverse cut or tear line 181 (eg, extending along the centerline of the dispenser 107).

[0018] 1 and 2, the dispenser panel 173 may be defined by two cut or tear lines 183a and two cut or tear lines 183b extending along the dispenser flap 171 such that the dispenser panel 173 is separable from the dispenser flap 171 along the tear lines 183a, 183b. In the illustrated embodiment, the tear lines 183a, 183b may be arcuate such that the dispenser panel 173 is oval and is centered in the dispenser 107 (e.g., such that the dispenser panel 173 interrupts the tear line 181). Alternatively, the dispenser panel 173 may be shaped differently and / or positioned differently within the dispenser 107. In embodiments, tear line 183a can include a cut interrupted by one or more scores (e.g., may be a gradual radial longitudinal curvilinear cut line), and tear line 183b can be a curved perforated cut line extending primarily in the transverse direction L2. Alternatively, tear lines 183a, 183b can be any suitable style of tear line and / or can have any suitable shape and / or orientation. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, dispenser 107 can further include a tab panel or access tab 185 to assist in removing dispenser panel 173 from dispenser 107, as described in more detail below. In embodiments, access flap 185 can be foldably connected to dispenser panel 173 along longitudinal fold line 187 and can be separated from dispenser panel 173 along a curved cut or tear line 189 (e.g., a cut interrupted by one or more notches). In an exemplary embodiment, tear line 189 may be a radial cut line extending from the end of longitudinal fold line 187 and rotating 110 degrees (e.g., approximately 110 degrees). Alternatively, tear line 189 may be any suitable style of tear line and / or may have any suitable shape and / or orientation.

[0019] Any of dispenser flap 171, dispenser panel 173, access flap 185, fold lines 177, 187, and / or tear lines 179, 181, 183a, 183b, 189 may be omitted or may be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and / or positioned without departing from this disclosure. For example, an alternative blank 103' is shown in FIG. 2A, which may be substantially similar to blank 103 of FIG. 1, except that dispensers 107' are oriented such that they extend primarily in a longitudinal direction L1 (e.g., rotated 90 degrees relative to the orientation of FIG. 1). In other embodiments, the dispensers may extend primarily in a diagonal direction.

[0020] In the illustrated embodiment, box 105 can be assembled from blank 103 by folding panels 115, 117, 121, 125 along transverse fold lines 119, 123, 127, 131 and adhering attachment flap 129 to bottom panel 121 to form an open-ended sleeve (not shown). One or both ends 191 a, 191 b of the open-ended sleeve can be at least partially closed by folding the end flap over each end along respective fold lines 162, 164. In the illustrated embodiment, sheet material M is loaded into the open-ended sleeve before ends 191 a, 191 b are closed. Alternatively, sheet material M can be loaded before or after either end 191 a, 191 b is closed. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end 191a can be closed by folding the side end flaps 137, 145 along the longitudinal fold line 162 over the open first end of the open-ended sleeve, and then folding the top end flap 133 and the bottom end flap 141 along the longitudinal fold line 162 to overlap the side end flaps 137, 145. The overlapping end flaps 133, 137, 141, 145 can be adhered to one another to at least partially secure the end flaps in the closed position. In alternative embodiments, the end flaps 133, 137, 141, 145 can have different overlapping arrangements without departing from this disclosure.

[0021] The second end 191b can be closed in the same manner as the first end 191a. Shown in Figure 3 is a package 106 including a box 105 assembled from a sheet of material M. The box 105 can be assembled and / or the ends 191a, 191b can be closed by other forming or folding steps as described herein without departing from this disclosure.

[0022] 4A-5, according to the exemplary method described below, dispenser 107 is opened by removing dispenser panel 173 to expose dispenser opening 175 (FIG. 5), allowing sheet material M to be selectively dispensed from box 105. In the illustrated embodiment, removal of dispenser panel 173 can be initiated by pushing access tab 185 outward, which can facilitate pulling dispenser panel 173 upward and away from dispenser flap 171 and tearing along tear lines 183a, 183b. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, access tab 185 can be pushed inward into interior 192 of box 105, such as by a user's finger (e.g., any finger of either hand). Access tab 185 is torn from dispenser panel 173 along tear line 189 and access tab 185 is folded along longitudinal fold line 187 to at least partially form access opening 193 in dispenser panel 173 (FIG. 4A). As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, a user can grasp dispenser panel 173 at access opening 193 with either hand (e.g., the tip of a finger used to press access tab 185 can be positioned inwardly under the edge of dispenser panel 173 formed by tearing radial tear line 189) and pull dispenser panel 173 upward, tearing it along tear lines 183a, 183b to at least partially remove dispenser panel 173 from dispenser 107. In some embodiments, a user can grasp dispenser panel 173 at fold line 187. Thus, a dispenser opening 175 is formed in the dispenser 107 and extends along the edge of the dispenser flap 171, with one or more sheets of material M being visible and accessible through the dispenser opening 175. The dispenser panel 173 may be otherwise removed and / or the dispenser opening 175 may be otherwise formed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0023] As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B , one or more sheets of sheet-like material M can be removed from box 105 via dispenser 107. For example, a user can reach through dispenser opening 175 (e.g., using one or more fingers and thumb) and pinch / grasp the top sheet M1 with either hand. In embodiments, as the fingers move into dispenser opening 175, they can apply pressure to dispenser flap 171 (e.g., can press the dispenser flap downward), which can break tear lines 179, 181 and cause dispenser flap 171 to fold along arcuate fold line 177 such that dispenser flaps 171 at least partially separate from one another along tear line 181 and at least partially separate from top panel 115 along tear line 179. As shown in FIG. 6B , sheet M can be pulled upward through dispenser 107 to remove sheet M1 from package 106. In the illustrated embodiment, sheet M1 can push dispenser flap 171 upward as it is pulled through dispenser opening 175, causing dispenser flap 171 to fold / pivot upward along arcuate fold line 177 and expand the size of dispenser opening 175 during removal of sheet M1. If the tear line or portions of the tear line have not previously been broken, the upward bias of dispenser flap 171 by sheet M1 can further cause dispenser flap 171 to tear along tear lines 179, 181. In embodiments, dispenser flaps 171 can be biased toward their closed position (e.g., the position shown in FIG. 5 ), as described in more detail below. Thus, dispenser flaps 171 can engage / contact and drag sheet material M as it moves through dispenser opening 175.

[0024] In embodiments, the subsequent sheet M2 can be pulled upward through the dispenser opening 175 along with the pulled sheet M1 (e.g., due to friction between sheets M1, M2, such as when sheet-like materials are interleaved), and the biased dispenser flaps 171 can help retain the subsequent sheet M2 as the pulled sheet M1 is pulled away from the dispenser 107 and box 105. In the illustrated embodiment, once the upper sheet M1 is pulled away, the pressure on the dispenser flaps 171 caused by the upward bias of the pulled sheet can be relieved, and the bias of the dispenser flaps 171 can move the dispenser flaps inward toward their closed position (e.g., return to approximately their original position). As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B , the subsequent sheet M2 can remain with the package 106, extend through the dispenser opening 175, and be at least partially retained (e.g., pinched or firmly grasped) between the biased dispenser flaps 171 in a stable, raised state. In some embodiments, the subsequent sheet M2 can be maintained in a stable, raised, or ready position by the dispenser flap 171 for easy grasping and pulling from the box 105 (FIG. 7C). Once the subsequent sheet M2 is removed, an additional subsequent sheet (not shown) can be pulled partially through the dispenser opening 175 to the same ready position as sheet M2. This process of removing sheets one by one through the dispenser 107 can be repeated until the sheet material is depleted. The sheet material M can be removed differently through the dispenser 107 without departing from this disclosure.

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, the curvature of the arcuate fold line 177, such that the arcuate fold line 177 is concave relative to the dispenser flap 171, can help bias the dispenser flap 171 toward its closed position. Thus, the dispenser flap 171 can help retain the sheet material M within the box 105 and / or at least partially close the dispenser opening 175 to help retain contaminants, such as dust, from the interior of the box 105 (e.g., protecting the interior of the box from the external environment) to the exterior. In some embodiments, the arcuate fold line 177 can cooperate with the fiber direction of the blank 103 to bias the dispenser flap 171. For example, the fiber direction can be oriented in the longitudinal direction L1 of the blank, and the arcuate fold line 177 can extend primarily in the transverse direction L2 (e.g., the arcuate fold line 177 can extend primarily in a direction perpendicular or oblique to the fiber direction of the blank 103).

[0026] In embodiments, dispenser 107 and other dispensers of the present application may offer advantages over other sheet-like material dispensers. For example, some boxes configured to dispense sheet-like materials may include a synthetic resin (e.g., a plastic film) attached to the inner surface of the top panel of the box along with an opening in the top panel (e.g., formed by removing a tear-off panel from the top panel). In embodiments, the sheet-like material may be dispensed through a slot extending through the plastic film and the opening in the top panel. The resilience and / or flexibility of the plastic film may help keep the slot at least partially closed (e.g., to help protect the sheet-like material within the box and / or to help keep contaminants out of the box), may help facilitate the smooth removal of the sheet-like material through the dispenser one sheet at a time, and may help hold one or more sheets of sheet-like material in a ready position extending at least partially through the dispenser so that the sheets can be grasped and pulled from the box. However, the dispenser of the present application can include at least these features / benefits without attaching additional materials to the blank (e.g., reducing materials, manufacturing processes, and costs) and without using plastic (e.g., reducing plastic waste from the packaging life cycle). The box of the present application can also reduce the introduction of mixed materials into the waste stream (e.g., the packaging does not include plastic attached to the paperboard, making the packaging easier to recycle). Furthermore, the dispenser of the present application allows for the inclusion of dispensing functionality in the box without adding materials used to form the box and without increasing the size of the blank's footprint. In embodiments, the dispenser features of the dispenser of the present application (e.g., dispenser flaps, dispenser panels, etc.) can help maintain at least a portion of the box's structural integrity (e.g., the box's rigidity / resistance to deformation), such as when compared to a box having an opening without the dispenser features of the present application.

[0027] FIG. 8 is a plan view of a portion (e.g., a top panel) of a blank (e.g., blank 103 of FIG. 1) for forming a carton (not shown) and package (not shown) of an additional embodiment (e.g., a second embodiment) of the present disclosure. The second embodiment is generally similar to the first embodiment, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments are given similar or similar reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 8, the top panel 115 includes a dispenser 207 having a different shape than the dispenser 107 of the first embodiment. For example, the tear line 279 has a different shape than the tear line 179, providing wider ends of the dispenser flap 271. In embodiments, the tear lines 279 at opposite ends of the dispenser flap 271 can be considered to have orthogonal portions (e.g., portions extending in the lateral direction L2 or longitudinal direction L1) connected by curved corners, as shown in FIG. 8. 8, the dispenser panel 273 is circular (e.g., circular) and the tear lines 283a, 283b extend along its circumference. The dispenser 207 may have other shapes, configurations, configurations, and / or arrangements without departing from this disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 9 is a plan view of a blank 303 for forming a carton 305 and package 306 (FIGS. 11A-12B) of an additional embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., a third embodiment of the present disclosure). The third embodiment is similar to the previously described embodiments, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments are given similar or similar reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 9, the top panel 115 can be a first top panel, and the blank 303 can include a second top panel 315 at an end of the blank 303 opposite the first top panel 115. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom panel 121 can be foldably connected to the first side panel 117 along a fold line 123 in the blank 303 and foldably connected to the second side panel 125 along a fold line 320. 9, the first top panel 115 is foldably connected to the second side panel along fold line 127, and the second top panel 315 is foldably connected to the first side panel 117 along fold line 319, with the blank 303 having top panels 115, 315 at opposite ends. In embodiments, the top panels 115, 315 can overlap (e.g., the first top panel 115 is an outer top panel and the second top panel 315 is an inner top panel) to form a top wall 316 (FIGS. 11A and 11B) when a box is formed from the blank 303. The inner top panel 315 can be glued or attached in face-to-face contact with the outer top panel 115.

[0029] As shown in FIGS. 9-10B, the blank 303 can include a dispenser mechanism in the top panels 115, 315 for forming a dispenser 307 (FIGS. 11A-12B) in the top wall of the box. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10A, the dispenser mechanism can include dispenser flaps 371 (e.g., first and second dispenser flaps) extending within the inner top panel 315. The dispenser flaps can be foldably connected to the inner top panel 315 along respective fold lines 377 (e.g., horizontal fold lines) and can be separated from the inner top panel 315 along curved cut or tear lines 379. In embodiments, the fold lines 377 can be orthogonal (e.g., can extend in the horizontal direction L2 as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10A, or in the longitudinal direction L1 in other embodiments having a different orientation of the dispenser 307 within the inner top panel 315). Further, the dispenser flaps 371 may be separable from one another along transverse tear lines 381 and may define an access opening 393 therebetween. In the illustrated embodiment, the dispenser flaps 371 may include arcuate end notches 394 at the ends of the tear lines 381, and the dispenser flaps 371 may be connected by a biasing mechanism 395 (e.g., an end connection panel). For example, each of the dispenser flaps 371 may be foldably connected to an end connection panel 395 along a respective arcuate fold line 397 (or other suitable line of weakness) having ends that intersect the tear lines 379 and the end notches 394. In the illustrated embodiment, the dispenser flaps 371 may be separable from the connection panel 395 along the arcuate notches 394, and the arcuate notches 394 may act as tear stops at the ends of the tear lines 381. In an embodiment, the end connection panel 395 can allow the dispenser flaps 371 to be folded out of the plane of the inner top panel 315 and at least partially separate after tearing at the tear lines 379, 381 (e.g., due to pressure when removing the sheet material), and can urge the dispenser flaps 371 back toward each other toward their original or closed position.

[0030] 9 and 10B, the dispenser mechanism may further include a dispenser panel 373 in the outer top panel 115 that is separable from the outer top panel 115 along tear lines 383a, 383b. The access tab 185 may extend into the dispenser panel 373. In embodiments, the dispenser panel 373 is aligned with the dispenser flap 371 such that the dispenser panel 373 overlaps the dispenser flap 371 in the top wall 316 of the molded box 305. The blank 303 and / or dispenser features may be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and / or positioned without departing from this disclosure.

[0031] In the illustrated embodiment, the carton 305 may be formed by folding the panels 115, 125, 121, 117, 315 around the interior of the carton and folding the end flaps over each end of the carton similar to the preceding embodiment, except that the outer top panel 115 is positioned to overlap the inner top panel 315 to form the top wall 316 (FIGS. 11A and 11B). In embodiments, the top panels 115, 315 may be adhered to one another (e.g., with adhesive strips and / or other suitable adhesives) such that the dispenser panel 373 is aligned and overlaps with the dispenser flap 371 (e.g., in the lateral direction L2 and longitudinal direction L1) to form the dispenser 307. In the illustrated embodiment, the dispenser panel 373 may remain unattached to the dispenser flap 371 so that the dispenser panel 373 can be removed without tearing the dispenser flap 371.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B , the dispenser panel 373 can be removed by actuating the access tab 185 and pulling the dispenser panel 373 upward, as described with respect to the first embodiment above. As the dispenser panel 373 is lifted, it tears away from the outer top panel 115 along tear lines 383 a, 383 b ( FIG. 11A ) until the dispenser panel 373 is completely removed, forming an outer dispenser opening 398 in the outer top panel 115. As shown in FIG. 11B , the dispenser flap 371 is exposed and accessible through the outer dispenser opening 398 for dispensing the sheet material M. As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B , the sheet material M can be pulled through the dispenser 307 in a manner similar to the previous embodiment. For example, the sheet material M can be grasped through the access opening 393 and pulled upward past the dispenser flap 371. As the dispenser flaps 371 are folded upward along fold lines 377, they can separate from each other along tear lines 381 and from the inner top panel 315 along tear lines 379, and can move at least partially upward through the outer dispenser opening 398 in the outer top panel 115. As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B , as the dispenser flaps 371 are folded upward, the dispenser flaps 371 can partially separate from the end connection panels 395 along the end notches 394 and can fold against the end connection panels 395 along curved fold lines 397. Additionally, the end connection panels 395 can move upward, away from the top wall 316, and separate from the outer top panel 115 along their respective tear lines 379. In embodiments, the end connection panels 395 can help prevent the dispenser flaps 371 from continuing to fold upward and outward, and can urge the dispenser flaps 371 toward each other and toward a closed position (e.g., FIG. 11B).Thus, the dispenser flaps 371 can press inwardly against a sheet of sheet material M pulled upwardly between them to help hold the sheet in its ready position (e.g., FIGS. 12A and 12B). The dispenser 307 can be actuated and operated in other manners without departing from this disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 13 is a plan view of a blank 403 for forming a carton 405 and package 406 (FIGS. 15-17B) of a further embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure). The fourth embodiment is similar to the previous embodiments, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments are given similar or similar reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 13, the dispenser feature can include a first / outer dispenser flap 471a in the outer top panel 115 and a second / inner dispenser flap 471b in the inner top panel 415. In an embodiment, the outer dispenser flap 471a can be foldably connected to the outer top panel 115 along an arcuate fold line 477a and can be separable from the outer top panel 115 along tear lines 483a, 483b (FIGS. 13 and 14B). 13 and 14B, the outer dispenser flap 471a can be foldably connected to the outer dispenser flap 471a along a curved fold line 487 and can include an access tab 485 that extends along the access opening 493. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14A, the inner dispenser flap 471b can be foldably connected to the inner top panel 415 along a fold line 477b (e.g., a curved fold line 477b) and can be separated from the inner top panel 415 along a cut or tear line 479. In an embodiment, the inner dispenser flap 471b can extend along a laterally extending edge of the inner top panel 415 and can include an access recess 496. In the illustrated embodiment, the dispenser flaps 471a, 471b are aligned such that the outer dispenser flap 471a at least partially overlaps the inner dispenser flap 471b in the top wall 416 of the assembled box 405 (FIGS. 15-17B). The blank 403 and / or dispenser features may be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and / or positioned without departing from this disclosure.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the outer dispenser flap 471a can at least partially overlap the inner dispenser flap 471b at the top wall 416 of the carton 405. As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 , the outer dispenser flap 471a can be grasped by the access tab 485 (e.g., through the access opening 493), pulled upward, folded along the arcuate fold line 477a, and separated from the outer top panel 115 along the tear lines 483b, 483a. In embodiments, the folding of the outer dispenser flap 471a can form a dispenser opening 498 in the top wall 416 and expose the inner dispenser flap 471b. As shown in FIG. 16 , a sheet of material M can be accessed via the dispenser opening 498 and the access recess 496 and pulled upward through the dispenser opening 498. Pulling the sheet-like material M upward causes the inner dispenser flap 471b to fold upward along the curved fold line 477b and tear the inner dispenser flap 471b along the tear line 479 (FIGS. 17A and 17B). Alternatively, a user can grasp the inner dispenser flap 471b (e.g., at the access recess 496) and manually fold the inner dispenser flap 471b upward. In the illustrated embodiment, at least the inner dispenser flap 471b can be biased toward its closed position to drag the sheet of sheet-like material M as the sheet is pulled through the dispenser 407 and can help hold the sheet in its ready position (e.g., FIGS. 17A and 17B). The dispenser 407 can be actuated and operated differently without departing from this disclosure.

[0035] In embodiments, the present disclosure may generally be directed to an opening for accessing sheet-like material, the opening comprising multiple panels integrated onto a top panel of a box. The dispenser may have an inner panel connected to the outer panel by notches and gaps, with at least one hole or semi-hole shape on the inside of the inner panel to assist in forcing the panels apart. The resulting inner panel gap may allow access to the sheet-like material. The outer panels, held together by the notches and gaps, may be split and may be biased inward or outward to return to their previous state. The outer panels may facilitate control of material flow through locations that engage material passing through successively split outer panels. In embodiments, the material flow is irreversible, with access to the next sheet material coming from the gap in the center section.

[0036] In embodiments, the present disclosure may be generally directed to cardboard box openings, molded boxes with at least six sides, boxes with at least one side that is opened for inserting sheet material prior to closure, boxes with at least one side closure that may or may not use glue to help seal the box, and boxes with different engineered side closures.

[0037] In embodiments, the present disclosure can be directed generally to outer panels that, when divided, mimic the same or similar function as plastic glued to a box. This action eliminates and / or reduces the need for plastic and its compounding effects on recycling and the product lifecycle. The use of primary material for the opening functions to be a complete package for the product.

[0038] Any of the features of the various embodiments of the present disclosure can be combined, substituted, or otherwise configured with other features of other embodiments of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it should be noted that the dispenser features of the various embodiments can be incorporated into boxes or cartons having any carton style or panel configuration. The above carton styles and panel configurations are included as examples.

[0039] Blanks according to any of the embodiments of the present disclosure can be formed, for example, from coated paperboard and similar materials. For example, the inside and / or outside of the blank can be coated with a clay coating. The clay coating can then be printed with product, advertising, price coding, and other information or images. The blank can then be coated with a varnish to protect any information printed on the blank. The blank can also be coated on one or both sides of the blank with, for example, a moisture barrier layer. In accordance with the above-described embodiments, the blank can be constructed of caliper paperboard so that it is heavier and more rigid than regular paper. The blank can also be constructed from other materials, such as cardboard, stiff paper, or any other material having suitable properties to enable the carton to function, at least generally, as described herein. The blank can also be laminated or coated with one or more sheet-like materials in selected panels or panel sections.

[0040] In accordance with the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, the fold line is not necessarily a straight line, but may be any substantially straight form of weakening that facilitates folding therealong. More specifically, without intending to narrow the scope of the present disclosure, fold lines include score lines, such as lines formed with a blunt scoring knife or the like, that create a crushed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness, cuts that extend partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and / or a series of cuts that extend partially into and / or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness, and various combinations of these features.

[0041] By way of example, the tear line can include a slit extending partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and / or a series of spaced slits extending partially into the material along the desired line of weakness and / or completely through the material, or various combinations of these features. As a more specific example, one type of tear line is in the form of a series of spaced slits extending completely through the material, with adjacent slits spaced slightly apart so that an incision is defined between adjacent slits to typically temporarily connect the material across the tear line (e.g., a somewhat bridge-like piece of material). The incision is broken during tearing along the tear line. The incision is typically a relatively small percentage of the tear line; alternatively, the incision can be omitted from or torn within the tear line such that the tear line is a continuous cut line. That is, it is within the scope of the present disclosure to replace each of the tear lines with a continuous slit, etc. For example, the cut line may be a continuous slit or may be wider than the slit without departing from the present disclosure.

[0042] The above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels adhesively bonded together during assembly of the carton embodiment. The term "adhesive" is intended to encompass any style of adhesive typically used to secure carton panels in place.

[0043] The foregoing description of the present disclosure illustrates and describes various exemplary embodiments. Various additions, modifications, alterations, and the like can be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. In addition, while the present disclosure illustrates and describes only selected embodiments of the present disclosure, the present disclosure can be used in various other combinations, modifications, and environments, and changes or modifications can be made consistent with the above teachings and / or within the skill or knowledge of the relevant art, within the scope of the inventive concept expressed herein. Furthermore, certain features and characteristics of each embodiment may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and unillustrated embodiments of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. 1. A carton for holding sheet-like material arranged in a plurality of sheets, comprising: a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carton; a dispenser extending into at least one of the plurality of panels, the dispenser including at least a first dispenser flap and a second dispenser flap, at least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap being foldably connected to the panel, and at least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap being biased toward a closed position; and The first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are configured to engage at least one sheet of the plurality of sheets extending at least partially through the dispenser to at least partially retain at least one sheet of the carton.

2. 2. The carton of claim 1, wherein the first dispenser flap is foldably connected to the panel along an arcuate fold line, the arcuate fold line being concave relative to the first dispenser flap to bias the first dispenser flap toward the closed position.

3. 3. The carton of claim 2, wherein the first dispenser flap is at least partially separable from the panel along one or more tear lines.

4. 4. The carton of claim 3, wherein the panel is a first panel, the arcuate fold line is a first arcuate fold line, the one or more tear lines are one or more first tear lines, the second dispenser flap is foldably connected to a second panel of the plurality of panels along a second arcuate fold line, and the second dispenser flap is at least partially separable from the second panel along one or more second tear lines.

5. 3. The carton of claim 2, wherein the arcuate fold line is a first arcuate fold line and the second dispenser flap is foldably connected to the panel along a second arcuate fold line.

6. 6. The carton of claim 5, wherein each of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap is at least partially separable from the panel along one or more tear lines.

7. 6. The carton of claim 5, wherein the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are separable from one another along a tear line, and the dispenser includes a dispenser panel extending along the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap so as to interrupt the tear line.

8. 6. The carton of claim 5, wherein the dispenser comprises a dispenser panel, the dispenser panel being at least partially separable from the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap along one or more tear lines.

9. 3. The carton of claim 2, wherein the panel is a first panel and the plurality of panels includes a second panel, the first panel at least partially overlapping the second panel, the second dispenser flap foldably connected to the second panel, and the first dispenser flap at least partially overlapping the second dispenser flap.

10. 10. The carton of claim 1, wherein the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are separable from the panel and from each other along one or more tear lines.

11. 2. The carton of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second dispenser flaps is foldably connected to the panel along a respective first and second fold line.

12. 12. The carton of claim 11, wherein the dispenser further comprises a dispenser panel configured to initiate opening of the dispenser, and an access flap foldably connected to the dispenser panel along a fold line.

13. 13. The carton of claim 12, wherein the dispenser panel extends along at least a portion of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap, and the dispenser panel is at least partially separable from the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap along one or more tear lines.

14. 13. The carton of claim 12, wherein the panel is a second panel, the plurality of panels includes a first panel at least partially overlapping the second panel, and the dispenser panel extends within the first panel and is at least partially separable from the first panel along one or more tear lines.

15. 15. The carton of claim 14, wherein the dispenser panel at least partially overlaps the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap.

16. 12. The carton of claim 11, wherein the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are connected to one another by an end connector panel for biasing the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap toward the closed position.

17. 17. The carton of claim 16, wherein the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are foldably connected to the end connection panel along respective fold lines.

18. 17. The carton of claim 16, wherein the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are separable from the end connection panel along an arcuate notch, and the first dispenser flap, the second dispenser flap, and the end connection panel are separable from the panel along at least a tear line.

19. 17. The carton of claim 16, wherein the end connection panel is a first end connection panel, the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are connected to each other by a second end connection panel, and the first end connection panel and the second end connection panel are at opposite ends of the dispenser.

20. 2. The carton of claim 1, wherein the panel is a first panel and the plurality of panels includes a second panel, the first panel at least partially overlapping the second panel, the first dispenser flap foldably connected to the first panel, the second dispenser flap foldably connected to the second panel, and the first dispenser flap at least partially overlapping the second dispenser flap.

21. 1. A package comprising a carton and a sheet material arranged in a plurality of sheets, said carton comprising: a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carton; a dispenser extending into at least one of the plurality of panels, the dispenser including at least a first dispenser flap and a second dispenser flap, at least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap being foldably connected to the panel, and at least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap being biased toward a closed position; and the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are configured to engage at least one sheet of the plurality of sheets extending at least partially through the dispenser to at least partially retain the at least one sheet; A package characterized by:

22. 22. The package of claim 21, wherein the panel is a first panel, the first dispenser flap is foldably connected to the first panel along an arcuate fold line that is concave relative to the first dispenser flap to bias the first dispenser flap toward the closed position, and the second dispenser flap is foldably connected to a second panel of the plurality of panels along a second arcuate fold line, and each of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap is at least partially separable from the respective first panel and second panel along one or more tear lines.

23. 23. The package of claim 22, wherein the first dispenser flap is foldably connected to the panel along a first arcuate fold line and the second dispenser flap is foldably connected to the panel along a second arcuate fold line, each of the first arcuate fold line and the second arcuate fold line being concave relative to the respective first dispenser flap and the respective second dispenser flap to bias the respective first dispenser flap and the respective second dispenser flap toward the closed position.

24. 24. The package of claim 23, wherein the dispenser comprises a dispenser panel, the dispenser panel being at least partially separable from the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap along one or more tear lines.

25. 22. The package of claim 21, wherein the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are separable from the panel and from each other along one or more tear lines.

26. 22. The package of claim 21, wherein each of the first and second dispenser flaps is foldably connected to the panel along a respective first and second fold line, and the dispenser further comprises a dispenser panel configured to initiate opening of the dispenser, and an access flap foldably connected to the dispenser panel along a fold line.

27. 27. The package of claim 26, wherein the dispenser panel extends along at least a portion of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap, and the dispenser panel is at least partially separable from the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap along one or more tear lines.

28. 27. The package of claim 26, wherein the panel is a second panel, the plurality of panels includes a first panel at least partially overlapping the second panel, the dispenser panel extends within the first panel and is at least partially separable from the first panel along one or more tear lines, and the dispenser panel at least partially overlaps the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap.

29. 22. The package of claim 21, wherein each of the first and second dispenser flaps is foldably connected to the panel along a respective first and second fold line, and the first and second dispenser flaps are connected to each other by an end connection panel for biasing the first and second dispenser flaps toward the closed position.

30. 22. The package of claim 21, wherein the panel is a first panel, the plurality of panels includes a second panel, the first panel at least partially overlapping the second panel, the first dispenser flap foldably connected to the first panel, the second dispenser flap foldably connected to the second panel, and the first dispenser flap at least partially overlapping the second dispenser flap.

31. 1. A blank for forming a carton for holding sheet-like material arranged in a plurality of sheets, comprising: Multiple panels and a dispenser feature extending into at least one of the plurality of panels to form a dispenser within the carton formed from the blank, the dispenser feature comprising at least a first dispenser flap and a second dispenser flap, at least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap being foldably connected to the panel, and at least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap being biased toward a closed position; and The blank is characterized in that the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are configured to engage at least one sheet of the plurality of sheets extending at least partially through the dispenser to at least partially retain the at least one sheet when the carton is formed from the blank.

32. 32. The blank of claim 31, wherein the first dispenser flap is foldably connected to the panel along an arcuate fold line, the arcuate fold line being concave relative to the first dispenser flap to bias the first dispenser flap toward the closed position.

33. 33. The blank of claim 32, wherein the first dispenser flap is at least partially separable from the panel along one or more tear lines.

34. 34. The blank of claim 33, wherein the panel is a first panel, the arcuate fold line is a first arcuate fold line, the one or more tear lines are one or more first tear lines, the second dispenser flap is foldably connected to a second panel of the plurality of panels along a second arcuate fold line, and the second dispenser flap is at least partially separable from the second panel along one or more second tear lines.

35. 32. The blank of claim 31, wherein the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are separable from the panel and from each other along one or more tear lines.

36. 32. The blank of claim 31, wherein each of the first and second dispenser flaps is foldably connected to the panel along a respective first and second fold line.

37. 37. The blank of claim 36, wherein the dispenser feature further comprises a dispenser panel configured to initiate opening of the dispenser when the carton is formed from the blank, and an access flap foldably connected to the dispenser panel along a fold line, the dispenser panel extending along at least a portion of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap, and the dispenser panel being at least partially separable from the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap along one or more tear lines.

38. 37. The blank of claim 36, wherein the panel is a second panel, the plurality of panels includes a first panel for at least partially overlapping the second panel when the carton is formed from the blank, and the dispenser feature further includes a dispenser panel configured to initiate opening of the dispenser when the carton is formed from the blank, and an access flap foldably connected to the dispenser panel along a fold line, the dispenser panel extending within the first panel and at least partially separable from the first panel along one or more tear lines.

39. 37. The blank of claim 36, wherein the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are connected to each other by an end connection panel for biasing the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap toward the closed position.

40. 40. The blank of claim 39, wherein the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are separable from the end connection panel along an arcuate notch, and the first dispenser flap, the second dispenser flap, and the end connection panel are separable from the panel at least along a tear line.

41. 40. The blank of claim 39, wherein the end connection panel is a first end connection panel, the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are connected to each other by a second end connection panel, and the first end connection panel and the second end connection panel are at opposite ends of the dispenser.

42. 32. The blank of claim 31, wherein the panel is a first panel, the plurality of panels includes a second panel, the first panel is for at least partially overlapping the second panel when the carton is formed from the blank, the first dispenser flap is foldably connected to the first panel, the second dispenser flap is foldably connected to the second panel, and the first dispenser flap is for at least partially overlapping the second dispenser flap when the carton is formed from the blank.

43. 1. A method of forming a carton for holding sheet-like material arranged in a plurality of sheets, comprising: obtaining a blank including a plurality of panels and a dispenser feature extending within at least one of the plurality of panels, the dispenser feature comprising at least a first dispenser flap and a second dispenser flap, at least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap being foldably connected to the panel; forming a carton by folding the plurality of panels to extend at least partially around an interior of the carton; and The method, characterized in that the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap are configured to engage with and at least partially retain at least one sheet of the plurality of sheets extending at least partially through the dispenser feature, and at least one of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap is biased toward a closed position.

44. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the first dispenser flap is foldably connected to the panel along an arcuate fold line, the arcuate fold line being concave relative to the first dispenser flap to bias the first dispenser flap toward the closed position.

45. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the panel is a first panel, the plurality of panels includes a second panel, the second dispenser flap is foldably connected to the second panel, and forming the carton further includes positioning the first panel and the second panel in an overlapping relationship such that the first dispenser flap at least partially overlaps the second dispenser flap.

46. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein each of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap is foldably connected to the panel along a respective first fold line and a respective second fold line, and the dispenser feature further comprises a dispenser panel configured to initiate opening of the dispenser feature.

47. 47. The method of claim 46, wherein the dispenser panel extends along at least a portion of the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap, and the dispenser panel is at least partially separable from the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap along one or more tear lines.

48. 47. The method of claim 46, wherein the panel is a second panel, the plurality of panels further includes a first panel, the dispenser panel extends within the first panel and is at least partially separable from the first panel along one or more tear lines, and forming the carton further includes positioning the first panel to at least partially overlap the second panel such that the dispenser panel at least partially overlaps the first dispenser flap and the second dispenser flap.

Images