Spool assembly and assembly method

Abstract

To provide a spool for an environmentally friendly filament product.SOLUTION: A spool (100) is constructed to support a roll of material. The spool comprises an arbor (102), a first flange (104) and a second flange (106). The first flange has a first plurality of flange panels (118a or the like) rotatably coupled to each arbor panel (110) of the arbor at a first arbor edge of the arbor. A second flange is coupled to a second arbor edge of the arbor. The first flange is constructed to shift between a retention configuration and an open configuration. In the retention configuration, removal of the roll of material from the arbor along an arbor axis is substantially prevented by the first and second flanges. In the open configuration, the roll of material can be removed from the arbor and can be received on the arbor in an arbor direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure (the present invention) generally relates to spool packaging assemblies, particularly to cardboard spools configured to transition between a holding position and an open position.

Background Art

[0002] Filament products may be supplied to end users while attached to storage spools. Filament products may include unused and / or used filaments that are intended to remain wound on a reel for any length of time. Storage spools can protect filament products during transportation, handling, and general use.

[0003] In conventional storage spools, two general methods are used to supply filament products. The filament is either wound directly onto the spool or wound in a loose coil and hung on the spool. Typically, fly fishing lines are packaged based on the latter method. The spool has a mandrel for supporting the filament and two flanges for holding the filament on the mandrel. To allow a loose coil to be hung on the mandrel, the spool may be separated into at least two parts, and the flanges may be separated from each other to allow the coil to be hung on the mandrel. Sufficient clearance must be provided between the inner circumference of the coil and the outer circumference of the spool mandrel to allow the coil to be loaded onto the mandrel.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, spools made of numerous parts have drawbacks. For example, there is a potential risk of the filament being crushed between the mating surfaces of the spool parts, which can ruin the filament product. Furthermore, the numerous parts can accidentally separate during use, especially at high speeds, leading to filament entanglement, bending, or other damage. Also, many conventional storage spools are made of plastic and are discarded after the filament has been fed out.

[0005] The above explanation of the technical background is intended solely to assist the reader. This explanation is not intended to limit the technically novel technologies described herein. Thus, the above explanation should not be considered to indicate that any particular element of a prior system is unsuitable for use in the novel technologies described herein, nor does it indicate that any element is essential for realizing the novel technologies described herein. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The above requirements are met to a considerable extent by the spool assembly disclosed herein. There is a growing global movement to reduce single-use plastic products. The spool assembly described herein consists of a single piece of cardboard spool, which is environmentally friendly and solves the drawbacks of spool designs consisting of multiple parts.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention provides a spool for supporting a roll of an object. The spool comprises a spindle, a first flange, and a second flange. The spindle extends about a spindle axis, and the spindle comprises a plurality of spindle panels that are connected to each other and spaced apart about the spindle axis. The first and second spindle panels of the plurality each have a first spindle edge, and the third spindle panel of the plurality has a second spindle edge. The first spindle edges of the first and second spindle panels are spaced apart from the second spindle edge of the third spindle panel in the spindle direction, and the spindle direction is substantially parallel to the spindle axis.

[0008] The first flange includes a plurality of first flange panels. The first flange panel of the plurality of first flange panels is rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the first spindle panel, and the second flange panel of the plurality of first flange panels is rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the second spindle panel. The second flange is connected to the second spindle edge of the third spindle panel.

[0009] The first flange is configured to transition between a retaining configuration and an open configuration. In the retaining configuration, the first and second flange panels of the first plurality of flange panels extend from their respective first spindle edges to the retaining height. In the open configuration, the first and second flange panels of the first plurality of flange panels extend from their respective first spindle edges to the open configuration. The retaining height and the open configuration extend from the spindle axis in the flange direction. The flange direction is substantially perpendicular to the spindle axis. The retaining height is greater than the open configuration, and in the retaining configuration, the object roll is substantially prevented from being removed from the spindle along the spindle axis by the first and second flanges, while in the open configuration, the object roll is removable from the spindle in the spindle direction.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for assembling a cardboard spool from a one-piece cardboard blank. The method includes the step of connecting a first cardboard panel of a plurality of cardboard panels to a second cardboard panel of a plurality of cardboard panels, wherein the first and second cardboard panels form at least a portion of a cardboard extending around a cardboard axis, and the method further includes the step of forming a first flange panel fold line between the first cardboard panel and a first flange panel of a first plurality of flange panels so that the first flange panel is rotatable with respect to the first cardboard panel, and forming a second flange panel fold line between the second cardboard panel and a second flange panel of the first plurality of flange panels so that the second flange panel is rotatable with respect to the second cardboard panel.

[0011] The first set of flange panels constitutes a first flange configured to transition between a retained configuration and an open configuration. In the retained configuration, the first and second flange panels of the first set of flange panels extend from their respective first and second spindle edges to the retained height. In the open configuration, the first and second flange panels of the first set of flange panels extend from their respective first and second spindle edges to the open height. The retained height is higher than the open height.

[0012] Another aspect of the present invention provides a spool for holding items that are preferably coiled. The spool has a body or cylindrical body and flanges spaced apart from each other. The items to be supported by the spool are placed on the body between the flanges. One of the flanges is crushable so that an already coiled item can be loaded onto the body. In the crushed state, the crushable flange is substantially the same size as the body in cross-section. In one configuration example, the crushable spool tapers in cross-section as it moves away from the body to facilitate loading coiled items onto the spool.

[0013] Another aspect of the present invention provides a spool made of a foldable material, such as cardboard or polymer board. The spool is provided as a flat blank with notched, cut, or embossed folding lines. The spool is made upright and an adhesive and interlocking elements are provided to maintain this upright state. In one configuration, the spool can be partially upright, in an intermediate state, in which the spool is flat and convenient for storage and transport. In this configuration, no additional adhesive is required to complete the uprighting of the spool in the final uprighting step.

[0014] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for loading a coiled item onto a spool, the method comprising the steps of: crushing the flange of the spool to a cross-section no larger than the cross-section of the body; sliding the coiled item along the crushed flange to fit it onto the body; and then unfolding the crushed flange to an expanded state, in which the flange holds the coiled item on the body.

[0015] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for forming a spool, in which a blank is prepared and placed upright in a flattened intermediate state with several parts fixed together with adhesive. Later, after the adhesive has cured, the spool is placed upright using only an adhesive-free interlocking connection method.

[0016] Another aspect of the present invention provides a cardboard spool for fly fishing line, in which the spool can be made upright from a flattened blank. The spool has a body made of four walls. Two flanges protrude outward from the outer circumference of the body. The spool provides a crushable flange that collapses when loaded, in which the crushed flange takes the form of a pyramidal frustum formed by folding the corner webs inward. The spool has an intermediate state during its upright operation, in which all adhesive joints are made and the spool can be made substantially flattened, and the body walls are folded so that they are parallel to each other and substantially parallel to the flanges.

[0017] The Summary section of this invention is provided to introduce a set of technical ideas in a simplified form, which will be further described below in the Detailed Description section. The Summary section does not identify any important or essential features of the claimed invention, nor is it used to limit the scope of the claimed invention. Furthermore, the claimed invention is not limited to features that resolve any or all of the defects noted in any part of this disclosure.

[0018] The following detailed description of the summary of the invention and the exemplary embodiments of this application will be best understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For illustrative purposes, the drawings show exemplary embodiments of the invention. However, this application is not limited to the illustrated configuration and operation itself. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0019] [Figure 1] This is a top-down perspective view of a spool according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a side view of the spool. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a plan view of the spool. [Figure 4A]A first top perspective view of the spool shown in FIG. 1 in an open configuration. [Figure 4B] A second top perspective view of the spool shown in FIG. 1 in an open configuration. [Figure 5] A top perspective view of the spool shown in FIG. 1 in an open configuration, showing the state where the roll of an object is positioned on the spool. [Figure 6] A top perspective view of the spool shown in FIG. 1 in a holding configuration, showing the state where the roll of an object is positioned on the spool. [Figure 7] A top perspective view of the spool according to another aspect of the present invention. [Figure 8] A side view of the spool shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] A plan view of the spool shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 10] A top perspective view of the spool shown in FIG. 7 in an open configuration. [Figure 11] A top perspective view of the spool shown in FIG. 7 in an open configuration, showing the state where the object roll is positioned on the spool. [Figure 12] A top perspective view of the spool shown in FIG. 7 in a holding configuration, showing the state where the object roll is positioned on the spool. [Figure 13] A top perspective view of the spool shown in FIG. 7 in an open configuration. [Figure 14] A top perspective view of the spool according to another aspect of the present invention. [Figure 15] A side view of the spool shown in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] A plan view of the spool shown in FIG. 14. [Figure 17] A top perspective view of the spool shown in FIG. 14 in an open configuration. [Figure 18] A top perspective view of the spool according to another aspect of the present invention. [Figure 19]Figure 18 is a side view of the spool shown. [Figure 20] Figure 18 is a plan view of the spool shown. [Figure 21] This is a top-down perspective view of the spool shown in Figure 18, which is in the open configuration. [Figure 22] This is a plan view of an unassembled spool according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 23] This is a plan view of a spool blank according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 24] This is a plan view of the spool shown in Figure 23, which is in a substantially flattened intermediate position. [Figure 25] Figure 23 is a perspective view of the spool in an upright position. [Figure 26] Figure 25 is a side view of the spool shown. [Figure 27] Figure 25 is a perspective view of the spool in a compressed state. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020] Certain terms used herein are for convenience only and do not limit the invention. The terms “axial,” “radial,” “circumferential,” “outward,” “inward,” “upward,” and “downward” indicate directions in the referenced drawings. The term “substantially” and its derivatives, as used herein, and terms with similar meanings, when used to describe dimensions, shapes, orientations, distances, spatial relationships, or other parameters, include the stated dimensions, shapes, orientations, distances, spatial relationships, or other parameters, and may further include ranges up to 10% greater and 10% less than the stated parameters, with such ranges including ±5%, ±3%, and ±1% of the parameters. All ranges disclosed herein include the listed endpoints and can be combined separately and independently (for example, the range “from 2 grams to 10 grams” includes the endpoints 2 grams and 10 grams, and all intermediate values). Terms include the terms described above, their derivatives, and terms with similar meanings.

[0021] Figures 1 to 6 show a spool 100 according to one aspect of the present invention. The spool 100 has a spindle 102, a first flange 104, and a second flange 106. The spindle 102 is configured to support a roll or coil 108 of an object on the spindle. The spool 100 is preferably made of cardboard material, which is foldable and bendable so as to form fold lines and / or creasing lines on the spool 100. In one aspect, the spool 100 consists of a single piece of cardboard material. The single-piece spool 100 is configured such that one or both of the first and second flanges 104, 106 can transition between a holding configuration and an open configuration, as further described below. In the holding configuration, the object roll 108 is held on the spindle 102 (see Figure 6). In the open configuration, the object roll 108 is detachable from the spindle 102 (see Figure 5).

[0022] The spindle 102 extends around a spindle axis 90. In one view, the spindle axis 90 passes through the radial center of the spindle 102. The spindle 102 includes a plurality of spindle panels 110. Each of the spindle panels 110 is continuously connected to each of the other spindle panels 110. For example, the first spindle panel 110a is connected to the second spindle panel 110b. In one view, the plurality of spindle panels 110 consist of four panels (as shown in the figure), and as a result, the spindle 102 has a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape when viewed along the spindle axis A. As can be understood, the spindle 102 may consist of a different number of panels. For example, the spindle 102 may consist of three panels or five or more panels.

[0023] Each of the spindle panels 110 has a first spindle edge 112 and a second spindle edge 114. Each of the first spindle edges 112 is spaced apart from each of the second spindle edges 114 in the spindle direction A. The spindle direction A is substantially parallel to the spindle axis 90. Each of the spindle panels 110 further has a third spindle edge 115 and a fourth spindle edge 117. The third spindle edge 115 of a spindle panel 110 is connected to the corresponding fourth spindle edge 117 of an adjacent spindle panel 110. For example, the third spindle edge 115 of the first spindle panel 110a is connected to the fourth spindle edge 117 of the second spindle panel 110b. Similarly, the third spindle edge 115 of the second spindle panel 110b is connected to the fourth spindle edge 117 of the third spindle panel 110c (see Figure 4A).

[0024] In one view, the third and fourth bar edges 115, 117 of each bar panel 110 extend in a direction substantially parallel to the bar axis 90. The first, second, third, and fourth bar edges 112, 114, 115, and 117 can define a substantially rectangular bar panel 110. In another view, the third bar edge 115 and the fourth bar edge 117 are angularly offset from each other (e.g., not substantially parallel to each other), and as a result, each bar panel 110 includes a trapezoidal shape, a rhombus shape, a combination thereof, or other quadrilateral shapes. In another variation, each bar panel 110 may have three or fewer or five or more bar edges, and may take the shape of a triangle, a hexagon, a combination thereof, or other shapes. From one perspective, each core panel 110 is substantially flat such that each core edge (e.g., edges 112, 114, 115, 117) extends along substantially the same plane.

[0025] The connecting portions between the third and fourth spindle edges 115, 117 of adjacent spindle panels 110 may include a fold line. The fold line may include a folding or bending portion provided in the material of the spool 100. The fold line allows each spindle panel 110 to rotate around the fold line relative to the adjacent spindle panel 110. As understood, the connecting portion between each third spindle edge 115 and fourth spindle edge 117 may consist of another type of rotatable connecting portion that allows the spindle panel 110 to rotate relative to the adjacent spindle panel 110.

[0026] The first spindle edge 112 of each spindle panel 110 is rotatably connected to the first flange 104. The rotatable connection between each first spindle edge 112 and the first flange 104 may include a fold line. The fold line may include a folding or bending portion provided in the material of the spool 100. In one view, the first spindle edge 112 of every spindle panel 110 is rotatably connected to the first flange 104. In a variation, a number of first spindle edges 112 of not all of each spindle panel 110 are connected to the first flange 104. For example, a spindle 102 including four spindle panels 110 may have two first spindle edges 112 on two of the spindle panels 110 connected to the first flange 104, while the first spindle edges 112 on the other two spindle panels 110 are not connected to the first flange 104.

[0027] The second spindle edge 114 of each spindle panel 110 is rotatably connected to the second flange 106. The rotatable connection between each second spindle edge 114 and the second flange 106 may include a fold line. The fold line may include a folding or bending portion provided in the material of the spool 100. In one view, the second spindle edge 114 of every spindle panel 110 is rotatably connected to the second flange 106. In a modified example, a number of second spindle edges 114 of not all of each spindle panel 110 are connected to the second flange 106. For example, a spindle 102 including four spindle panels 110 may have two second spindle edges 114 on two of the spindle panels 110 connected to a second flange 106, while the second spindle edges 114 on the other two spindle panels 110 are not connected to the second flange 106.

[0028] The connections between the first spindle edge 112 and the first flange 104 of each spindle panel 110, and the connections between the second spindle edge 114 and the second flange 106 of each spindle panel 110, are preferably substantially symmetrical when viewed in a direction substantially perpendicular to the spindle axis 90. For example, each first spindle edge 112 and each second spindle edge 114 are preferably connected to their respective first and second flanges 104 and 106 in substantially similar ways. In another view, each spindle panel 110 having a first spindle edge 112 connected to the first flange 104 has a second spindle edge 114 that is not connected to the second flange 106. Also, each spindle panel 110 having a second spindle edge 114 connected to the second flange 106 has a first spindle edge 112 that is not connected to the first flange 104. In this view, the first flange 104 and the second flange 106 are circumferentially offset from each other when viewed along the spindle axis 90. As understood, other deformed joints between the spindle panel 110 and the first and second flanges 104, 106 may be considered joints consistent with the view described herein.

[0029] The first flange 104 has a plurality of first flange panels 116. The plurality of first flange panels 116 consists of a plurality of first inner flange panels 118 and a plurality of first outer flange panels 120. The plurality of first inner flange panels 118 extend from the spindle 102 to the plurality of first outer flange panels 120. The plurality of first outer flange panels 120 extend to the end 121 of the first flange 104.

[0030] Each of the first spindle edges 112 of the spindle panel 110 is rotatably connected to each of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 in a corresponding relationship. For example, the first spindle panel 110a is rotatably connected to the first inner flange panel 118a. Similarly, the second spindle panel 110b is rotatably connected to the second inner flange panel 118b. Each of the first plurality of outer flange panels 120 is rotatably connected to each edge of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118. The rotatable connections between each of the panels 110, 118, and 120 preferably include fold lines formed in the material constituting the spool 100.

[0031] The rotatable connection between each first spindle edge 112 of the spindle panel 110 and each corresponding of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 is preferably extended in a direction substantially perpendicular to the spindle axis 90. Each of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 can be rotated at least 90° to 180° relative to the spindle panel 110 to which the inner flange panel 118 is connected. For example, if one of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 is rotated approximately 90° relative to the corresponding spindle panel 110 to which it is connected, the inner flange panel 118 extends in a direction away from the spindle axis 90 (e.g., radially outward), and as a result, the flange panel 118 is substantially perpendicular to the spindle axis 90. When one of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 is rotated by approximately 180° relative to the corresponding spindle panel 110 to which it is connected, the inner flange panel 118 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the spindle axis 90. In this orientation (e.g., 180° rotation), it is preferable that the inner flange panel 118 be substantially planar with the corresponding spindle panel 110 to which it is connected (e.g., aligned along the same plane). As can be seen, each of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 can be rotated by an angle greater than 180° and less than 90° relative to the corresponding spindle panel 110 to which it is connected, thereby facilitating the acceptance and retention of the object roll 108 on the spindle 102, as will be further described below.

[0032] Referring to Figures 4A and 4B, each of the first plurality of outer flange panels 120 is connected to a corresponding edge 122 of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118. Each of the first plurality of outer flange panels 120 is rotatable in correspondence with each of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 about the edge 122. In one view, it is preferable that the edge 122 is substantially perpendicular to the spindle axis 90. For example, if one of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118a is positioned at 90° with respect to the corresponding spindle panel 110a, the edge 122a extends substantially perpendicular to the spindle axis 90. As can be understood, if the first flange panel is positioned at more than 90°, it is preferable that the edge 122 extends at an angle other than substantially perpendicular to the spindle axis 90. For example, if the first inner flange panel 118a is positioned at approximately 180° relative to the corresponding spindle panel 110, the edge 122a is preferably extended at an angle other than substantially perpendicular to the spindle axis 90.

[0033] The first set of flange panels 116 further includes a second inner flange panel 118b and a second outer flange panel 120b rotatably connected to the second inner flange panel 118b at the edge 122b. The second inner flange panel 118b is preferably connected to the second outer flange panel 120b in substantially the same manner as the first inner flange panel 118a is connected to the first outer flange panel 120a as described above. In one view, the first outer flange panel 120a is rotatably connected to the second outer flange panel 120b. In one view, the rotatable connection between the first outer flange panel 120a and the second outer flange panel 120b is defined by a fold line 124. As can be understood, the rotatable connection between the first outer flange panel 120a and the second outer flange panel 120b may be defined by another structure, for example, a number of fold lines 124, a flexible panel, a combination thereof, or yet another structure. The first and second inner flange panels 118a, 118b and the first and second outer flange panels 120a, 120b are preferably configured such that the first inner flange panel 118a and the first outer flange panel 120a are mirror images of the second inner flange panel 118b and the second outer flange panel 120b.

[0034] Referring to Figure 2, the rotatable connecting portion between the first and second outer flange panels 120a, 120b is preferably extended at an angle offset from the edges 122a, 122b. For example, when the first and second outer flange panels 120a, 120b are aligned with each other so that they are both substantially on the same plane, the fold line 124 is preferably angle-off from edge 122a by an angle A of approximately 45°. Similarly, the fold line 124 is preferably angle-off from edge 122b by an angle B of approximately 45° in the opposite direction to the angle offset between edge 122a and the fold line 124.

[0035] The first set of flange panels 116 may further include a third inner flange panel 118c, a fourth inner flange panel 118d, a third outer flange panel 120c, and a fourth outer flange panel 120d. The third and fourth inner flange panels 118c, 118d and the third and fourth outer flange panels 120c, 120d may each be substantially identical in configuration to the first and second inner flange panels 118a, 118b and the first and second outer flange panels 120a, 120b, respectively. Each of the third and fourth inner flange panels 118c, 118d may extend from the corresponding first spindle edge 112 of the spindle. Each of the third and fourth outer flange panels 120c, 120d may extend from the corresponding third and fourth inner flange panels 118c, 118d.

[0036] Referring to Figure 2, it is preferable that the first and second outer flange panels 120a, 120b are configured to be connected to the third and fourth outer flange panels 120c, 120d. In one view, it is preferable that one or both of the first and second outer flange panels 120a, 120b have a first connecting element 126. It is preferable that one or both of the third and fourth outer flange panels 120c, 120d have a second connecting element 128. The first and second connecting elements 126, 128 are configured to be connected to each other in such a way that they selectively hold the first flange 104 in a retained position. The first and second connecting elements 126, 128 may have, for example, Velcro® connectors, protruding / slotted connectors, snap connectors, or other types of connectors for selectively connecting the first and second outer flange panels 120a, 120b to the third and fourth outer flange panels 120c, 120d.

[0037] From another or additional viewpoint, it is preferable that at least one of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 is configured to connect to one of the corresponding first plurality of outer flange panels 120. The connection between at least one of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 and one of the corresponding first plurality of outer flange panels 120 can selectively hold the first flange 104 in a retaining configuration, as will be further described below.

[0038] The first flange 104 is configured to transition between a retained configuration (see Figures 2 and 6) and an open configuration (see Figures 4A, 4B, and 5). In the retained configuration, the first and second inner flange panels 118a, 118b extend from the corresponding first spindle edge 112 to the retained height R. In the open configuration, the first and second inner flange panels 118a, 118b extend from the corresponding first spindle edge 112 to the open height. The retained height and open height extend from the spindle axis 90 in the flange direction B. The flange direction B is substantially perpendicular to the spindle axis 90.

[0039] The holding height is greater than the opening height that allows the object roll 108 to be inserted onto and around the spindle 102 (see Figure 5). For example, in the open configuration of the first flange 104, the outer cross-sectional dimensions of the first plurality of flange panels 116 are smaller than the inner cross-sectional dimensions of the object roll 108. In the open configuration, at least one of the first plurality of flange panels 118 is positioned at an angle of less than approximately 90° with respect to the corresponding spindle panel to which it is connected. In one embodiment, in the fully open position, each of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 is positioned at an angle of approximately 180° with respect to the corresponding spindle panel to which it is connected. In the open configuration, the object roll 108 is removable from the spindle 102 in the spindle direction A along the spindle axis 90.

[0040] In the holding configuration, the object roll 108 is substantially prevented from being removed from the spindle 102 along the spindle axis 90 by the first and second flanges 104, 106 (see Figure 6). For example, in the holding configuration of the first flange 104, the outer cross-sectional dimensions of the first plurality of flange panels 116 are greater than the inner cross-sectional dimensions of the object roll 108. In the holding configuration, at least one of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 is positioned at an angle of approximately 90° with respect to the corresponding spindle panel to which it is connected. As can be understood, the object roll 108 can be held on the spindle 102 if the outer cross-sectional dimensions of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 are greater than the inner cross-sectional dimensions of the object roll 108, when at least one of the first plurality of inner flange panels 118 is positioned at an angle of less than approximately 90° with respect to the spindle panel 110 to which it is connected.

[0041] The first flange 104 can be transitioned from a retained state to an open state by rotating one or more of the first multiple flange panels 116. For example, the first and second inner flange panels 118a, 118b can be rotated to an angle greater than approximately 90° relative to the corresponding spindle edge 112. From one perspective, the first and second inner flange panels 118a, 118b can be rotated to approximately 180°. The rotation of the first and second inner flange panels 118a, 118b causes the corresponding first and second outer flange panels 120a, 120b to rotate around their respective edges 122a, 122b. As the first and second inner flange panels 118a, 118b and the first and second outer flange panels 120a, 120b rotate from 90° to 180° relative to the spindle 102, the first flange 104 extends axially outward from the spindle 102 in the spindle direction A. When the first and second inner flange panels 118a, 118b reach their open height, the object roll can be positioned on the spindle 102 by moving the object roll along the spindle axis 90.

[0042] To transition the first flange from an open state to a retained state, the first and second inner flange panels 118a and 118b are rotated toward a 90° position relative to the corresponding spindle panel 110. When the first and second inner flange panels 118a and 118b and the first and second outer flange panels 120a and 120b are rotated 90° relative to the spindle 102, the first flange 104 retracts axially inward toward the spindle 102 in the opposite direction to the spindle direction A. After the first and second inner flange panels 118a and 118b reach the retaining height R, the object roll 108 is retained on the spindle 102.

[0043] The first flange 102 can be selectively held in a retained configuration by connecting the first connecting element 126 to the second connecting element 128. In one view, in the retained configuration of the first flange 104, the surface of the first outer flange panel 120a abuts against the surface of the first inner flange panel 118a, and the surface of the second outer flange panel 120b abuts against the surface of the second inner flange panel 118b. Preferably, one or both of the pairs of abutting surfaces of the first inner and outer flange panels 118a, 120a and the second inner and outer flange panels 118b, 120b have a connecting element (see, for example, Figure 22 - snap feature) that selectively connects the abutting surfaces to each other. The selective connecting portion between the abutting surfaces can selectively hold the first flange 104 in a retained configuration.

[0044] As can be understood, the third and fourth inner flange panels 118c, 118d and the third and fourth outer flange panels 120c, 120d can be moved and / or transitioned substantially in the same manner as the first and second inner flange panels 118a, 118b and the first and second outer flange panels 120a, 120b, thereby allowing the first flange 104 to be transitioned between a retained and an open configuration.

[0045] It will be understood that the second flange 106 is preferably configured substantially similarly to the first flange 104. For example, the second flange 106 may have a second set of flange panels 132. The second set of flange panels 132 can transition the second flange 106 between a retaining configuration for holding the object roll 108 on the spindle 102 and an open configuration that allows the spindle 102 to receive the object roll 108 and to remove the object roll 108 from the spindle 102. It will be understood that the first and second flanges 104, 106 are preferably configured differently from each other. For example, the second flange 106 may be configured such that the second flange is held or locked in a retaining position. The first flange 104 is selectively transitioned between a retaining configuration and an open configuration to receive the object roll 108 and to remove it from the spindle 102.

[0046] The appearance and structure of the spool 100 can be modified without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the connecting elements 126, 128 may be positioned on different panels of either the first or second flanges 104, 106. In another modification, the spool 100 may have a small or large number of inner panels and / or a small or large number of outer panels configured to transition between a retained and an open configuration. In view of another modification, each of the outer flange panels 120 may be connected to each of the adjacent outer flange panels 120.

[0047] Figures 7 to 13 show a spool 200 according to another aspect of the present invention. It will be understood that the spool 200 can be moved, aligned, and configured in substantially the same manner as the spool 100 described herein. The spool 200 has a spindle 202, a first flange 204, and a second flange 206. The spindle member 202 and the first and second flanges 204, 206 can be formed integrally as a single piece. For example, the first and / or second flanges 204, 206 can be moved between an open position and a retained position without removing either the first or second flange 204, 206 from the spindle 202. The spool 200 is preferably made of cardboard material.

[0048] Referring to Figures 8 to 10, the first outer panel 220a of the plurality of first flange panels 216 has a first connecting element 226. A first hole 230 is provided extending through the first connecting element 226. The third outer panel 220c of the plurality of first flange panels 216 has a second connecting element 228, and a second hole 232 is provided passing through this second connecting element. In the holding configuration of the first flange 204, the first hole 230 can be substantially aligned with the second hole 232 along the spindle axis 190. In one view, the spool 200 may have a aligning pin member (not shown). The aligning pin member may be configured to pass through the spindle 202, the first hole 230, and the second hole 232 along the spindle axis 190 when the first flange 204 is in the holding configuration. From one perspective, it is preferable that the second flange 206 be substantially identical in configuration to the first flange 204. The alignment pin member is preferable to further penetrate the first and second holes (not shown) of the second flange 206. The alignment pin member allows the spool to rotate about the spindle axis 190, and as a result, the object roll 208 can be wound around the spindle 202 by rotating the spool 200 about the spindle axis 190 in the coil direction. Similarly, the object roll 208 can be unwound from the spindle 202 by rotating the spool 200 about the spindle axis 190 in the opposite direction to the coil direction.

[0049] Figures 14 to 17 show a spool 300 according to another aspect of the present invention. It will be understood that the spool 300 can be moved, aligned, and configured in substantially the same manner as any of the spools 100 and 200 described herein. The spool 300 has a spindle 302, a first flange 304, and a second flange 306.

[0050] The spindle 302 has a plurality of spindle panels 310. Each of the spindle panels 310 is substantially triangular in shape. Each of the spindle panels 310 is continuously connected to each adjacent spindle panel 310 around the spindle axis 290. In one view, every other spindle panel 310 spaced apart around the spindle axis 290 has a first spindle edge connected to a first flange 304. Each of the other every other spindle panels 310 spaced apart around the spindle axis 290 has a second spindle edge connected to a second flange 306. For example, the first spindle panel 310a and the third spindle panel 310c of the plurality of spindle panels 310 each have a first spindle edge. The first spindle edges of both the first spindle panel 310a and the third spindle panel 310c are connected to corresponding flange panels of the plurality of flange panels 316. The second spindle panel 310b of the plurality of spindle panels 310 is circumferentially positioned between the first spindle panel 310a and the third spindle panel 310c. The second spindle panel 310b has a second spindle edge connected to the second flange 306. The configuration of the plurality of spindle panels 310 allows the first flange 304 to be circumferentially offset from the second flange 306 when viewed along the spindle axis 290 (see Figure 15).

[0051] Figures 18 to 21 show a spool 400 according to another aspect of the present invention. It will be understood that the spool 400 can be moved, aligned, and configured in substantially the same manner as any of the spools 100, 200, and 300 described herein. The spool 400 has a core 402 made of a single piece of cardboard material, a first flange 404, and a second flange 406.

[0052] Figure 22 is a plan view of the spool 500 in an unassembled form according to one aspect of the present invention. It will be understood that the spool 500 can be moved, aligned, and configured in substantially the same manner as any of the spools 100, 200, 300, and 400 described herein. The spool 500 consists of a one-piece cardboard blank 501. The blank 501 is assembled to form a core 502, a first flange 504, and a second flange 506.

[0053] A method for assembling the spool 500 includes the step of forming crease lines 511 in the blank 501 between each of the multiple spindle panels 510. Each of the crease lines 511 allows each spindle panel 510 to rotate relative to an adjacent spindle panel 510. It is preferable to form crease lines 513 between each of the multiple spindle panels 510 and the corresponding inner flange panels of the multiple inner flange panels 518. Each of the crease lines 513 allows each of the multiple inner flange panels 518 to rotate in correspondence with each of the multiple spindle panels 510. It is preferable to form crease lines 515 between each of the multiple inner flange panels 518 and the corresponding outer flange panels of the multiple outer flange panels 520. Each of the crease lines 515 allows each of the multiple outer flange panels 520 to rotate relative to each of the multiple inner flange panels 518. It is preferable to form fold lines (see, for example, fold line 124 in Figure 2) between adjacent outer flange panels 520 so that adjacent outer flange panels 520 can rotate relative to each other. After forming the fold lines on the blank 501, it is preferable to connect the first spindle panel 510a of the multiple spindle panels 510 to the second spindle panel 510b of the multiple spindle panels 510. After connecting the first spindle panel 510a to the second spindle panel 510b, the spool 500 can transition between an open state and a held state.

[0054] Figures 23 to 27 show a spool 2 relating to another modification of the present invention. The spool 2 generally has a body 4 (e.g., a spindle), a fixed flange 6, and a crumple flange 8. The crumple flange 8 is preferably configured in a crumpled state, as shown in Figure 27, so that a coiled item can slide along it on the flange 8 and fit into the body 4. The coiled item may be a coil of thread, cord, wire, rope, or line. A fishing line, such as a fly fishing line, can be wound onto the spool 2 for storage. The spool 2 has a central opening 10 so that the spool 2 is rotatable when mounted on or stored in a hanger. In another view, the spool 2 may have a number of crumple flanges. For example, both the fixed flange 6 and the crumple flange 8 may be configured to transition into a crumpled state to receive a coiled item to slide along it on the corresponding flange.

[0055] Spool 2 can be folded from the flattened state in Figure 23 to the intermediate state in Figure 24, and then to the upright position in Figures 25 and 26. The flattened state in Figure 23 can be cut and formed from a flat piece of material, such as paper, cardboard, or polymer board. In the exemplary embodiment, the foldable material is 0.018 Solid Bleached Sulphate (SBS) cardboard. It is preferable to make notches where the material will be folded and cut open or serrated. Adhesive is used to join several parts together as shown by the wavy lines and marked in Figure 23. It will be understood that spool 2 can be held together by a method other than adhesive (e.g., snap fasteners, interlocking fasteners, mechanical locking, etc.). Spool 2 is preferably made from recyclable paper or polymer material. In other embodiments, the elements of spool 2 can be formed separately and then joined together.

[0056] The spool 2 can be raised from the flattened state shown in Figure 23 to the intermediate state shown in Figure 24, in which all the connecting parts (e.g., adhesive joints) are formed, but the body 4 is not yet complete. In this state, the walls used to form the body 4 are arranged as two parallel members, thereby allowing the crushable flange 8 to rotate downward until parts of its inner surface engage with parts of the inner surface of the fixed flange 6. In this state, the spool 2 is in a substantially flattened state, which is desirable for storage and transport. From this intermediate state, the user completes the upright position of the spool 2 by rotating the crushable flange 8 upward away from the fixed flange 6, until the walls used to form the body 4 are substantially perpendicular to the flanges 6,8. The walls of the body halves are folded toward each other, and these ends interlock to complete the upright position of the spool 2.

[0057] Once in an upright position, it is preferable to load the coiled item onto the spool 2 by winding the item onto the body or by sliding the coiled item along the collapsible flange 8. It is undesirable to coil a certain coiled item, such as a fly fishing line, during manufacturing and then unwind the line and wind it again onto the body 4. Therefore, the collapsible flange 8 can be changed to its collapsed state as shown in Figure 27, thereby allowing the coiled item to slide along the collapsed flange 8 and fit onto the body 4. When collapsed, the flange 8 has a cross-section smaller than the cross-section of the body 4 (taken perpendicular to the rotation axis of the spool 2). The collapsed flange 8 tapers along its length, allowing for easier loading of the coiled item. After loading the coiled item onto the body 4, the collapsible flange 8 is returned to its upright position as shown in Figures 25 and 26 to hold the coiled item on the spool 2.

[0058] The body 4 has four walls 20, 22, 24, and 26, the walls 22 and 26 being formed by body half walls 28 having mechanically interlocking end portions 30. In some configurations, the user may optionally fix the interlocking end portions 30 using adhesive. The interlocking end portions 30 may, for example, have corresponding snap-fits, interlocking fits, or other corresponding connecting or interlocking portions. The walls 20 and 24 are parallel to each other and are hinged at or to the flanges 6 and 8. These hinges allow the flanges 8 and the body 4 to rotate downward to a substantially flattened state when they are in an intermediate position.

[0059] The fixed flange 6 has a mounting flange 32 used to fix two main layers and the shell wall 24. The mounting flange is bonded to a portion of the inner surface of the flange 6 located inside the shell 4. The two main layers of the flange 6 have an outer panel 34 (which constitutes part of the opening 10) and a first inner panel 36 and a second inner panel 38, which are folded against the outer panel 34 and bonded to it. The first inner panel overlaps with and defines part of the opening 10. The barrel wall 20 is connected to the inner end of the second inner panel 38. The flange 6 is preferably polygonal.

[0060] The crushable flange 8 has two main layers, consisting of an outer panel 44 and a first inner panel 46 and a second inner panel 48, the inner panels being bonded to the outer panel. The first inner panel 46 is connected to the top of the shell wall 20, and the second inner panel 48 is connected to the top of the shell wall 24.

[0061] The crushable flange 8 may have a rectangular or square central portion 50 from which four tapered subpanels 52 extend. Fewer or more subpanels 52 may extend from the central portion 50. Figures 23 and 24 show the tapered edges of the subpanels 52. The tapered edges of the subpanels 52 facilitate the insertion of the fishing line when the spool 2 is in a crushed state. Foldable corner panels 54 connect the side edges of the subpanels 52 to each other to form a corner relief. When the flange 8 is crushed, the foldable corner panels 54 fold inward as shown in Figure 27, so that the subpanels are positioned around or within the cross-section of the body 4. The foldable corner panels minimize entanglement, bending, or other damage to the filaments positioned around the body 4.

[0062] The spool assemblies disclosed herein preferably include a single-piece cardboard spool that is environmentally friendly and solves the shortcomings of spool designs consisting of multiple pieces.

[0063] It will be understood that the above description provides embodiments of the disclosed systems and methods. However, it is assumed that other embodiments of the invention may differ in detail from the embodiments described above. For example, any embodiment disclosed herein may include features disclosed for any other embodiment disclosed herein. All references to the invention and its embodiments refer to the specific embodiment described at that time and do not imply any limitation on the scope of the invention more generally. Any distinctions or disparagements regarding certain features suggest a lack of preference for such features, but do not exclude such features from the scope of the invention unless otherwise indicated.

[0064] As will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, processes, machines, manufacturing methods, compositions of objects, means, methods, or steps that currently exist or will be developed in the future may be used in accordance with the present invention to perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same results as the corresponding embodiments described herein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0065] 2,100,200,300,400,500 spools 4. Body or cylindrical body 6 Fixed flange 8. Crushable flange 90,190,290 Mandrel axis 102,202,302,402,502 Mandrel 104,204,304,404,504 First flange 106, 206, 306, 406, 506 Second flange 108,208 rolls of objects 110 Core Panel 110a First core panel 110b Second core panel 112,115 First spindle edge 114,117 Second spindle edge 118 Inner flange panel 118a First inner flange panel 118b Second inner flange panel 120 Outer flange panel

Claims

1. A spool that supports a roll of an object, wherein the spool is Having a spindle extending around a spindle axis, the spindle includes a plurality of spindle panels connected to each other and spaced apart around the spindle axis, the first and second spindle panels of the plurality of spindle panels each having a first spindle edge, the third spindle panel of the plurality of spindle panels having a second spindle edge, the first spindle edges of the first and second spindle panels being spaced apart from the second spindle edge of the third spindle panel in the spindle direction, and the spindle direction being substantially parallel to the spindle axis. Having a first flange comprising a plurality of first flange panels, the first flange panel of the plurality of first flange panels is rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the first spindle panel, and the second flange panel of the plurality of first flange panels is rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the second spindle panel, The third spindle panel has a second flange connected to the second spindle edge, The first flange is configured to transition between a retained state and an open state, and in the retained state, the first and second flanges of the first plurality of flange panels A spool wherein each panel extends from the first spindle edge to a retaining height, and in the open configuration, the first and second flange panels of the first plurality of flange panels extend from the first spindle edge to an open height, the retaining height and the open height extend in the flange direction, the flange direction is substantially perpendicular to the spindle axis, the retaining height is higher than the open height, and in the retaining configuration, the roll of the object is substantially prevented from being removed from the spindle along the spindle axis by the first and second flanges, and in the open configuration, the roll of the object is removable from the spindle in the spindle direction.

2. The spool according to claim 1, wherein the first, second, and third spindle panels are substantially flat, and the first and second flange panels of the first plurality of flange panels are substantially flat.

3. The spool according to claim 2, wherein the spindle further includes a fourth spindle panel among the plurality of spindle panels, and the first, second, third, and fourth spindle panels are continuously connected to one another around the spindle axis, thereby forming a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape when viewed along the spindle axis.

4. The spool according to claim 2, wherein each of the first, second, and third spindle panels is substantially triangular in shape, the third spindle panel is circumferentially positioned between the first and second spindle panels, and the third spindle panel further has a first inner edge and a second inner edge, the first inner edge being connected to the first spindle panel and the second inner edge being connected to the second spindle panel.

5. The spool according to claim 1, wherein the first flange is transitionable between the holding configuration and the open configuration by rotating the first and second flange panels among the first plurality of flange panels around the first spindle edges of the first and second spindle panels, respectively.

6. The spool according to claim 1, wherein the spool is made of a cardboard material.

7. The spool according to claim 6, wherein the rotatable connecting portion between the first flange panel of the first plurality of flange panels and the first spindle edge of the first spindle panel consists of a fold line made in the cardboard material, and the rotatable connecting portion between the second flange panel of the first plurality of flange panels and the first spindle edge of the second spindle panel consists of a fold line made in the cardboard material.

8. The first flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels is the first inner flange panel, the second flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels is the second inner flange panel, and the spool is A first outer flange panel among a plurality of first flange panels rotatably connected to the edge of the first inner flange panel, The present invention further comprises a second outer flange panel from among the first plurality of flange panels, which is rotatably connected to the edge of the second inner flange panel, The spool according to claim 1, wherein the first outer flange panel is rotatably connected to the second outer flange panel.

9. The spool according to claim 8, wherein in the holding configuration of the first flange, 1) the surface of the first outer flange panel abuts against the surface of the first inner flange panel, 2) the surface of the second outer flange panel abuts against the surface of the second inner flange panel, and 3) the rotatable connecting portion between the first outer flange panel and the second outer flange panel extends along a line that makes an angle of approximately 45° with respect to the first spindle edge.

10. The spindle further includes a fourth spindle panel among the plurality of spindle panels, the first, second, third, and fourth spindle panels are continuously connected to each other around the spindle axis, and the spool is A third inner flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the third spindle panel, A fourth inner flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the fourth spindle panel, A third outer flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels rotatably connected to the edge of the third inner flange panel, The fourth outer flange panel is rotatably connected to the edge of the fourth inner flange panel, The spool according to claim 8, wherein the third outer flange panel is rotatably connected to the fourth outer flange panel.

11. The spool according to claim 8, wherein the first outer flange panel has a first connecting element, and the second outer flange panel has a second connecting element, and in the holding configuration of the first flange, the first connecting element is configured to connect to the second connecting element so as to selectively hold the first flange in the holding configuration.

12. The spool according to claim 10, wherein at least one of the first and second outer flange panels is provided with a first hole, and at least one of the third and fourth outer flange panels is provided with a second hole, and in the holding configuration of the first flange, the first hole is substantially aligned with the second hole along the spindle axis.

13. The spool according to claim 12, further comprising a aligning pin member configured to penetrate the spindle, the first hole, and the second hole along the axis of the spindle when the first flange is in the holding configuration.

14. The second flange has a second plurality of flange panels, the first flange panel of the second plurality of flange panels is rotatably connected to the second spindle edge of the first spindle panel, the second flange panel of the second plurality of flange panels is rotatably connected to the second spindle edge of the second spindle panel, and the third flange panel of the second plurality of flange panels is rotatably connected to the second spindle edge of the third spindle panel. The spool according to claim 1, wherein the second flange is configured to transition between a retaining configuration and an open configuration, and in the retaining configuration of the second flange, the first, second, and third flange panels of the second plurality of flange panels extend from their respective second spindle edges to the retaining height, and in the open configuration, the first, second, and third flange panels of the second plurality of flange panels extend from their respective second spindle edges to the open height.

15. A method for assembling a cardboard spool from a one-piece cardboard blank, wherein the method is The process includes the step of connecting a first spindle panel among a plurality of spindle panels to a second spindle panel among the plurality of spindle panels, wherein the first and second spindle panels form at least a portion of a spindle extending around a spindle axis. The process includes the step of forming a first flange panel fold line between the first spindle panel and the first flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels so that the first flange panel is rotatable relative to the first spindle panel. The process includes the step of forming a second flange panel fold line between the second spindle panel and the second flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels so that the second flange panel is rotatable relative to the second spindle panel. The first plurality of flange panels constitute a first flange configured to transition between a retained configuration and an open configuration, wherein in the retained configuration, the first and second flange panels of the first plurality of flange panels extend from their respective first and second spindle edges to the retained height, and in the open configuration, the first and second flange panels of the first plurality of flange panels extend from their respective first and second spindle edges to the open height, the retained height and the open height extend from the spindle axis in the flange direction, and the flange direction is substantially perpendicular to the spindle axis. A method wherein the holding height is greater than the opening height, and in the holding configuration, the roll of the object is substantially prevented from being removed from the spindle along the spindle axis by the first flange and the second flange, the first flange is spaced apart from the second flange along the spindle direction substantially parallel to the spindle axis, and in the opening configuration, the roll of the object is removable from the spindle along the spindle axis in the spindle direction.

16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising the step of forming a first spindle fold line between the second spindle panel and a third spindle panel among the plurality of spindle panels, wherein the first, second, and third spindle panels form at least a portion of the spindle.

17. The process further includes the step of forming a second spindle fold line between the third spindle panel and a fourth spindle panel among the plurality of spindle panels, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth spindle panels form at least a portion of the spindle. The method according to claim 16, further comprising the step of forming a third spindle fold line between the fourth spindle panel and the first spindle panel.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth spindle panels extend around the spindle axis, thereby forming a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape when viewed along the spindle axis.

19. The first flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels is a first inner flange panel, and the second flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels is a second inner flange panel, and the method is The steps include forming a third flange panel fold line between the first inner flange panel and the first outer flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels so that the first outer flange panel is rotatable relative to the first inner flange panel, The method according to claim 15, further comprising the step of forming a fourth flange panel fold line between the second inner flange panel and the second outer flange panel of the first plurality of flange panels so that the second outer flange panel is rotatable with respect to the second inner flange panel.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising the step of forming a fifth flange panel fold line between the first outer flange panel and the second outer flange panel so that the first outer flange panel is rotatable relative to the second outer flange panel.

21. A spool that supports a roll of an object, wherein the spool is Having a spindle extending around a spindle axis, the spindle includes a plurality of spindle panels spaced apart around the spindle axis, each of the plurality of spindle panels includes a first spindle edge and a second spindle edge spaced apart from the first spindle edge via the spindle along the spindle axis, Having a first flange connected to the aforementioned spindle, It has a second flange connected to the spindle, and the first and second flanges are spaced apart from each other along the axis of the spindle via the spindle. The first flange is configured to transition between a retained state and an open state. The plurality of spindle panels comprise substantially triangular first, second, and third spindle panels, the third spindle panel being circumferentially positioned between the first and second spindle panels, and the third spindle panel further comprising a first inner edge and a second inner edge, the first inner edge being connected to the first spindle panel and the second inner edge being connected to the second spindle panel, in a spool.

22. The spool according to claim 21, wherein the plurality of core panels are substantially flat.

23. The spool according to claim 21, wherein the plurality of spindle panels are continuously connected to one another around the spindle axis and have first, second, third, and fourth spindle panels that form a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape when viewed along the spindle axis.

24. The spool according to claim 21, wherein the first flange is transitionable between the holding configuration and the open configuration by rotating (1) a first flange panel rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the first spindle panel among the plurality of spindle panels, and (2) a second flange panel rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the second spindle panel among the plurality of spindle panels, around their respective first spindle edges.

25. The spool according to claim 21, wherein the spool is made of a cardboard material.

26. The first flange has a plurality of first flange panels, The first flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels is rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the first spindle panel among the plurality of spindle panels, The second flange panel of the first plurality of flange panels is rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the second spindle panel of the plurality of spindle panels, The spool according to claim 25, wherein both of the rotatable connecting portions have fold lines of the cardboard material.

27. The first flange has a plurality of first flange panels, The first flange panel among the multiple flange panels of the first series is the first inner flange panel, The second flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels is a second inner flange panel, The aforementioned spool is A first outer flange panel among a plurality of first flange panels, rotatably connected to the edge of the first inner flange panel, The present invention further comprises a second outer flange panel among a plurality of first flange panels, which is rotatably connected to the edge of the second inner flange panel, The spool according to claim 21, wherein the first outer flange panel is rotatably connected to the second outer flange panel.

28. The spool according to claim 27, wherein in the first flange holding configuration, (1) the surface of the first outer flange panel abuts against the surface of the first inner flange panel, (2) the surface of the second outer flange panel abuts against the surface of the second inner flange panel, and (3) the rotatable connecting portion between the first outer flange panel and the second outer flange panel extends along a line that makes an angle of about 45 degrees with respect to the first spindle edge.

29. The plurality of spindle panels have first, second, third, and fourth spindle panels that are continuously connected to each other around the spindle axis. The aforementioned spool is A third inner flange panel of the first plurality of flange panels, rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the third spindle panel, A fourth inner flange panel of the first plurality of flange panels, rotatably connected to the first spindle edge of the fourth spindle panel, A third outer flange panel of the first plurality of flange panels, rotatably connected to the edge of the third inner flange panel, The fourth outer flange panel of the first plurality of flange panels is rotatably connected to the edge of the fourth inner flange panel, The spool according to claim 27, wherein the third outer flange panel is rotatably connected to the fourth outer flange panel.

30. The spool according to claim 29, wherein at least one of the first outer flange panel and the second outer flange panel is provided with a first hole, and at least one of the third outer flange panel and the fourth outer flange panel is provided with a second hole, and in the holding configuration of the first flange, the first hole is substantially aligned with the second hole along the spindle axis.

31. The spool according to claim 30, further comprising a aligning pin member configured to penetrate the spindle, the first hole, and the second hole along the spindle axis when the first flange is in the holding configuration.

32. The first outer flange panel includes a first connecting element, The second outer flange panel includes a second connecting element. The spool according to claim 27, wherein in the holding configuration of the first flange, the first connecting element is configured to be connected to the second connecting element to selectively hold the first flange in the holding configuration.

33. The spool according to claim 21, wherein the second flange is configured to transition between a retaining state and an open state.

34. A method for assembling a cardboard spool from a one-piece cardboard blank, wherein the method is A step of connecting a first spindle panel among a plurality of spindle panels to a second spindle panel among a plurality of spindle panels, wherein the first and second spindle panels form at least a portion of a spindle extending around a spindle axis, The steps include forming a first flange panel fold line between the first spindle panel and the first flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels so that the first flange panel is rotatable relative to the first spindle panel, The steps include forming a second flange panel fold line between the second spindle panel and the second flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels so that the second flange panel is rotatable relative to the second spindle panel, A step of forming a first spindle fold line between the second spindle panel and a third spindle panel among the plurality of spindle panels, wherein the first, second, and third spindle panels form at least a portion of the spindle, A method wherein a first flange having a plurality of first flange panels is connected to the spindle and configured to transition between a retained state and an open state, and a second flange is connected to the spindle and positioned at a distance from the first flange via the spindle along the axis of the spindle.

35. A step of forming a second spindle fold line between the third spindle panel and the fourth spindle panel among the plurality of spindle panels, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth spindle panels form at least a portion of the spindle; The method according to claim 34, further comprising the step of forming a third spindle fold line between the fourth spindle panel and the first spindle panel.

36. The method according to claim 35, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth spindle panels extend around the spindle axis and form a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape when viewed along the spindle axis.

37. The first flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels is a first inner flange panel, and the second flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels is a second inner flange panel, and the method is A step of forming a third flange panel fold line between the first inner flange panel and the first outer flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels so that the first outer flange panel is rotatable relative to the first inner flange panel, The method according to claim 34, further comprising the step of forming a fourth flange panel fold line between the second inner flange panel and the second outer flange panel of the first plurality of flange panels so that the second outer flange panel is rotatable with respect to the second inner flange panel.

38. The method according to claim 37, further comprising the step of forming a fifth flange panel fold line between the first outer flange panel and the second outer flange panel so that the first outer flange panel is rotatable relative to the second outer flange panel.

39. A spool that supports a roll of an object, wherein the spool is Having a spindle extending around a spindle axis, the spindle includes a plurality of spindle panels spaced apart around the spindle axis, each of the plurality of spindle panels includes a first spindle edge and a second spindle edge spaced apart from the first spindle edge via the spindle along the spindle axis, Having a first flange connected to the aforementioned spindle, It has a second flange connected to the spindle, and the first and second flanges are spaced apart from each other along the axis of the spindle via the spindle. The first flange is configured to transition between a retained state and an open state. The first flange has a first plurality of flange panels, the first flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels is a first inner flange panel, the second flange panel among the first plurality of flange panels is a second inner flange panel, and the spool is A first outer flange panel among a plurality of first flange panels, rotatably connected to the edge of the first inner flange panel, The second outer flange panel of the first plurality of flange panels is rotatably connected to the edge of the second inner flange panel, The first outer flange panel is rotatably connected to the second outer flange panel, forming a spool.

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