Carton for packaging a product, blank, and method for packaging a product

Abstract

A carton for packaging an article includes a longitudinal axis, a first end, a second end opposite the first end along the longitudinal axis, and a plurality of panels that form an interior volume. The interior volume is configured to receive the article. The first end is open for inserting the article into the interior volume and removing the article from the interior volume. The second end is configured to close in response to inserting the article for retaining the article within the interior volume.

Description

Docket No. 25013-WOCARTONS FOR PACKAGING PRODUCT, BLANKS, AND METHODS FOR FORMING CARTONS AND PACKAGINGPRODUCTFIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to product packaging and, more particularly, to cartons for packaging one or more articles, blanks for forming cartons, methods of forming cartons from blanks, and methods for packaging product. More particularly, though not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to cartons configured to prevent product from unintentionally sliding out and having the capacity to be displayed in a vertical orientation.B A C KG R O UND

[0002] In the field of packaging, a primary product container is often provided with an exterior carton. Such cartons are desirable for shipping and distribution, for product protection, for tamper resistant security, and for display of product identification or promotional information. However, it is common for the primary product to slide out from within the exterior carton when picked up by a customer or removed from a shelf or freezer at a retail location. It is also desirable that the end consumer be able to view product identification or promotional information when the product is displayed for sale. However, typical cartons require the product to be stacked vertically, which obscures information printed on the major surface of the carton. It is also desirable that the retailer be able to maximize the number of products for the given shelf space. However, vertical stacking limits the number of products for the given shelf space. For shipping, product protection and tamper security considerations, it is also desirable to ensure a tight fit of such cartons and for such cartons to have suitable strength for holding and transporting the product. For cost and environmental considerations, it is also desirable for such cartons be formed from as little material as possible and cause as little wastage in the materials as possible. For cost and process considerations, it is also desirable for such cartons to be formed through as simple a set of folding operations as possible to aid in automation of the carton erection and loading process. Accordingly, those skilled in the art continue with research and development efforts in the field of product packaging.Docket No. 25013-WOS UM M A R Y

[0003] Disclosed are examples of a carton for packaging an article, a blank for forming a carton, a packaging system, a method for packaging an article, and a method for forming a carton. The following is a non-exhaustive list of examples, which may or may not be claimed, of the subject matter according to the present disclosure.

[0004] In an example, the disclosed carton includes a longitudinal axis, a first end, a second end opposite the first end along the longitudinal axis, and a plurality of panels that form an interior volume. The interior volume is configured to receive an article. The first end is open for inserting the article into the interior volume and removing the article from the interior volume. The second end is configured to close in response to inserting the article for retaining the article within the interior volume.

[0005] In an example, the disclosed packaging system includes a carton and an article. The carton includes a longitudinal axis, a first end, a second end opposite the first end along the longitudinal axis that is closable, a plurality of panels that form an interior volume. The article is located within the interior volume of the carton and at least partially surrounded by the plurality of panels. The first end of the carton is open. The article is inserted into the interior volume and removed from the interior volume through the first end. The second end is closable in response to insertion of the article into the interior volume. The article is retained within the interior volume by the second end.

[0006] In an example, the blank includes a first side panel, a top panel connected to the first side panel along a first fold line, a second side panel connected to the top panel along a second fold line, a bottom panel connected to the second side panel along a third fold line, and an end panel connected to the top panel along a fourth fold line.

[0007] In an example, the disclosed method packaging includes steps of: (1) providing a blank that includes a plurality of panels; (2) manipulating the blank such that the panels form a carton including a longitudinal axis, a first end that is open, a second end that is closable opposite the first end along the longitudinal axis, and an interior volume; (3) inserting the article within theDocket No. 25013-WO interior volume such that at least a portion of the article is surrounded by the panels; (4) enclosing the second end in response to inserting the article.

[0008] In an example, the method for forming includes steps of: (1) forming a blank including comprising a series of panels connected along a plurality of fold lines; (2) manipulating the panels about the fold lines to form the carton including a longitudinal axis, a first end, a second end opposite the first end along the longitudinal axis, a bottom panel, a top panel spaced away from the bottom panel, a first side panel connecting the bottom panel and the top panel, a second side panel connecting the bottom panel and the top panel and spaced away from the first side panel, and an end panel extending between the bottom panel, the top panel, the first side panel, and the second side panel, and an interior volume; (3) folding the end panel along one of the fold lines relative to the top panel such that the end panel is positioned in the interior volume and encloses the second end in response to an article being inserted within the interior volume.

[0009] Other examples of the disclosed carton, blank, packaging system, and methods will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.B RIEF D E S C RIP TI O N O F TH E DRAWING S

[0010] Fig. 1 is a schematic, perspective view of an example of a carton;

[0011] Fig. 2 is a schematic, top view of an example of the carton;

[0012] Fig. 3 is a schematic, first end view of an example of the carton;

[0013] Fig. 4 is a schematic, second end view of an example of the carton;

[0014] Fig. 5 is a schematic, second end view of an example of the carton;

[0015] Fig. 6 is a schematic, top view of an example of the carton depicted in a flattened configuration;

[0016] Fig. 7 is a schematic, perspective view of an example of a packaging system;

[0017] Fig. 8 is a schematic, perspective view of an example of the packaging system;Docket No. 25013-WO

[0018] Fig. 9 is a schematic, plan view of an example of a blank;

[0019] Fig. 10 is a flow diagram of an example of a method for packaging product; and

[0020] Fig. 11 is a flow diagram of an example of a method for forming a carton.D ETAILED D E S C RIPTI O N

[0021] Referring to Figs. 1-6, by way of examples, the present disclosure is directed to a carton 100 for packaging an article 302. The following are examples of the carton 100, according to the present disclosure. Examples of the carton 100 include a number of elements, features, and components. Not all of the elements, features, and / or components described or illustrated in one example are required in that example. Some or all of the elements, features, and / or components described or illustrated in one example can be combined with other examples in various ways without the need to include other elements, features, and / or components described in those other examples, even though such combination or combinations are not explicitly described or illustrated by example herein.

[0022] Generally, examples of the carton 100 that includes or takes the form of a sleeve that includes a non-glued, folded-in end-flap that prevents the article 302 (e.g„ a tray) held by the carton 100 from sliding out when picked from the shelf or freezer. Generally, when the article 302 is inserted into the carton 100, the article 302 pushes the end-flap out, thereby creating a barrier that retains the article 302 from sliding out from the carton 100. Examples of the carton 100 also allows the article 302 to be displayed in an upright, or “stand-up,” position. Examples of the carton 100 also allow the carton 100 to collapse into a flattened form, thereby making it easier to ship and then form for insertion of the article 302 in fewer steps. The present disclosure recognizes that conventional packaging solutions require all flaps to be glued or have one flap that requires tucking and locking in place, which are extra steps that are eliminated using examples of the carton 100. Examples of the carton 100 can replace existing tray and sleeve combinations that use plastic in securing the two packaging components together.

[0023] As illustrated in Fig. 1-5, in one or more examples, the carton 100 includes a longitudinal axis 102 (Fig. 2). The carton 100 includes a first end 106 and a second end 108 that is opposite the first end 106 along the longitudinal axis 102. The carton 100 includes a pluralityDocket No. 25013-WO of panels 1 10 that form an interior volume 104 of the carton 100. The interior volume 104 is configured to receive the article 302. The first end 106 is open for inserting the article 302 into the interior volume 104 and removing the article 302 from the interior volume 104. The second end 108 is configured to close in response to inserting the article 302 for retaining the article 302 within the interior volume 104.

[0024] In one or more examples, the carton 100 forms an exterior packaging for the article 302. The plurality of panels 110 extend around the longitudinal axis 102 and form the interior volume 104 of the carton 100. As illustrated in Figs. 7 and 8, the article 302 is located within the interior volume 104 of the carton 100, generally between the first end 106 and the second end 108, and is at least partially surrounded by the plurality of panels 110.

[0025] In one or more examples, the second end 108 of the carton 100 is automatically closed upon or in response to insertion of the article 302 within the interior volume 104 from the first end 106 toward the second end 108. This automatic closing of the second end 108 of the carton 100 is achieved by an end panel 122 (e.g., end-flap) that is inwardly folded and is pushed outward into the closed position by the article 302.

[0026] In one or more examples, the carton 100 is self-supporting, or self-standing, on its second end 108. Accordingly, the carton 100 facilitates the carton 100 and the article 302 housed by the carton 100 (e.g., a packaging system 300 shown in Figs. 7 and 8) being displayed, such as on a store shelf, in an upright position in which the longitudinal axis 102 is oriented substantially vertically so that product identification and / or product information disposed on an exterior surface of the carton 100 is easily viewable by the consumer. In one or more examples, the carton 100 is a one-piece, wrap-around packaging formed from a blank 200 (Fig. 9) and is configured to extend at least partially around the article 302 to secure the article 302 within the boundary of the carton 100.

[0027] As best illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, in one or more examples, the second end 108 is planar. The second end 108 being planar enables the second end 108 to support the carton 100 in an upright position in which the longitudinal axis 102 is vertically oriented. In one or more examples, the second end 108 includes a second end-edge 126 formed by the panels 110. The second end-edge 126 has a closed cross-sectional shape, viewed along the longitudinal axis 102.Docket No. 25013-WOThe second end-edge 126 forms a perimeter of the second end 108. In one or more examples, the second end-edge 126 is planar. The second end-edge 126 being planar enables the second end 108 to support the carton 100 in the upright position in which the longitudinal axis 102 is vertically oriented. As an example, the second end 108 or the second end-edge 126 resides in a virtual plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 108102

[0028] As best illustrated in Figs 1 and 2, in one or more examples, the first end 106 includes a first end-edge 124 formed by at least a portion of the panels 110. The first end-edge 124 has a closed cross-sectional shape, viewed along the longitudinal axis 102. The first end-edge 124 forms a perimeter of the first end 106. In one or more examples, at least a portion of the first endedge 124 is nonplanar. As an example, at least a portion of the first end-edge 124 resides outside of a virtual plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 102. In one or more examples, at least a portion of the first end-edge 124 is planar. As an example, at least a portion of the first end-edge 124 resides outside of a virtual plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 102.

[0029] As illustrated in Figs. 1-5, in one or more examples, the panels 110 include a bottom panel 112. The panels 110 includes a top panel 114 that is spaced away from the bottom panel 112. The panels 110 include a first side panel 116 that extends between and connects the bottom panel 112 and the top panel 114. The panels 110 include a second side panel 118 that extends between and connects the bottom panel 112 and the top panel 114 and that is spaced away from the first side panel 116. The panels 110 include an end panel 122 (Figs. 3-5) that extends between the bottom panel 112, the top panel 114, the first side panel 116. and the second side panel 118 to enclose the second end 108.

[0030] As illustrated in Figs. 1-6, in one or more examples, the carton 100 includes a first sideedge 152 formed by the bottom panel 112 and the first side panel 116. The carton 100 includes a second side-edge 154 formed by the first side panel 116 and the top panel 114. The carton 100 includes a third side-edge 156 formed by the top panel 114 and the second side panel 118. The carton 100 includes a fourth side-edge 158 formed by the second side panel 118 and the bottom panel 112. Generally, each of the side-edges 152, 154, 156, 158 extend between the first endedge 124 and the second end-edge 126 of the carton 100.Docket No. 25013-WO

[0031] In one or more examples, the bottom panel 112 includes a first end-edge 132 and a second end-edge 134. The top panel 114 includes a first end-edge 136 and a second end-edge 138. The first side panel 116 includes a first end-edge 142 and a second end-edge 144. The second side panel 118 includes a first end-edge 146 and a second end-edge 148. The second endedge 134 of the bottom panel 112, the second end-edge 138 of the top panel 114, the second endedge 144 of the first side panel 116, and the second end-edge 148 of the second side panel 118 are coplanar and form the second end-edge 126 of the carton 100, which is configured to support the carton 100 in the upright position in which the longitudinal axis 102 is vertically oriented.

[0032] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 2, 7 and 8, in one or more examples, at least a portion of the first end-edge 124, such as at least a portion of a first end-edge 136 of the top panel 114 matches the contour of a portion of the article 302.

[0033] As illustrated in Figs. 1 and 3-5, in one or more examples, the end panel 122 is coupled to the top panel 114. In one or more examples, the end panel 122 extends from the second endedge 138 of the top panel 114. In one or more examples, the end panel 122 is pivotable (e.g., foldable) about the second end-edge 138 relative to the top panel 114 to enclose the second end 108. The end panel 122 is initially folded inwardly such that the end panel 122 is positioned within the interior volume 104 during construction of the carton 100. When the article 302 is inserted through the first end 106 and into the interior volume 104 toward the second end 108, the article 302 engages the end panel 122 and pushes the end panel 122 outward into a closed position or configuration.

[0034] As illustrated in Figs. 3-5, in one or more examples, the end panel 122 includes an end portion 162 that extends from the top panel 114 and that is pivotable relative to the top panel 114. The end panel 122 includes a bottom portion 164 that extends from the end portion 162 and the is pivotable relative to the end portion 162.

[0035] In one or more examples, in the inwardly folded configuration of the end panel 122, the end portion 162 is folded into an acute angular orientation relative to the top panel 114. The bottom portion 164 can be folded into an angular orientation relative to the top panel 114 and can be at least approximately parallel to the bottom panel 112. In the closed configuration of the end panel 122, the end portion 162 is folded into an at least approximately perpendicular angularDocket No. 25013-WO orientation relative to the top panel 1 14. The bottom portion 164 is folded into an at least approximately perpendicular angular orientation relative to the end portion 162 and at least approximately parallel to the bottom panel 112. In one or more examples, the bottom portion 164 of the end panel 122 is sandwiched or clamped between the article 302 and the bottom panel 112 to help hold the end panel 122 in the closed configuration.

[0036] As illustrated in Fig. 3, in one or more examples, the end panel 122 includes a first flap 166 that extends from the end portion 162 and that is pivotable relative to the end portion 162. The end panel 122 includes a second flap 168 that extends from the end portion 162 opposite the first flap 166 and that is pivotable relative to the end portion 162.

[0037] In one or more examples, the first flap 166 and the second flap 168 are folded into an angular orientation relative to the end portion 162 such that the first flap 166 engages the first side panel 116 and the second flap 168 engages the second side panel 118. In one or more examples, the first flap 166 and the second flap 168 experience a spring-back effect from folding that urges them toward an approximately parallel or coplanar relationship with the end portion 162 of the end panel 122 and into engagement with the first side panel 116 and the second side panel 118, respectively. In the closed configuration of the end panel 122, the first flap 166 is folded into an at least approximately perpendicular angular orientation relative to the end portion 162 and at least approximately parallel to the first side panel 1 16. The second flap 168 is folded into an at least approximately perpendicular angular orientation relative to the end portion 162 and at least approximately parallel to the second side panel 118. In one or more examples, the first flap 166 of the end panel 122 is sandwiched or clamped between the article 302 and the first side panel 116 and the second flap 168 of the end panel 122 is sandwiched or clamped between the article 302 and the second side panel 118 to help hold the end panel 122 in the closed configuration.

[0038] As best illustrated in Figs. 3 and 6, in one or more examples, the second side panel 118 includes a bottom portion 172 and a top portion 174. The bottom portion 172 extends from the bottom panel 112. The top portion 174 extends between the bottom portion 172 and the top panel 114. The top portion 174 is pivotable relative to the bottom portion 172. The bottom portion 172 and the top portion 174 being pivotable or foldable relative to each other and relative to theDocket No. 25013-WO bottom panel 1 12 and the top panel 114, respectively, enables the carton 100 to conform to the shape of the article 302 and / or flex during insertion of the article 302 into the interior volume 104 of the carton 100. In one or more examples, the bottom portion 172 and the top portion 174 being pivotable or foldable relative to each other and relative to the bottom panel 112 and the top panel 114, respectively, also enables the carton 100 to be converted to a flattened configuration (Fig. 6) after construction of the carton 100. such as for shipping in bulk, and then converted back into an erected configuration (Figs. 1-5) for insertion of the article 302 (Figs. 7 and 8).

[0039] As illustrated in Figs. 1, 3 and 5, in one or more examples, the carton 100 includes a tab 128 that connects the first side panel 116 and the bottom panel 112. In one or more examples, the tab 128 extends from the first side panel 116, overlaps a portion of the bottom panel 112, and is adhesively bonded to the bottom panel 112.

[0040] As illustrated in Figs. 1-6, in one or more examples, the tab 128 is foldably (e.g., hingedly or movably) connected to the first side panel 116 by a fold line. The top panel 114 is foldably connected to the first side panel 116 by a fold line. The second side panel 118 is foldably connected to top panel 114 by a fold line. The bottom panel 112 is foldably connected to second side panel 118 by a fold line. In one or more examples, the fold lines interconnecting the bottom panel 112, the top panel 114, the first side panel 116. the second side panel 118, and the tab 128 are spaced apart from each other and are at least approximately parallel to each other.

[0041] In one or more examples, certain ones of the fold lines form edges of the carton 100. As an example, the fold line between the tab 128 and the first side panel forms the first side-edge 152. The fold line between the first side panel 116 and the top panel 114 forms the second sideedge 154. The fold line between the top panel 114 and the second side panel 118 forms the third side-edge 156. The fold line between the second side panel 118 and the bottom panel 112 forms the fourth side-edge 158.

[0042] Referring to Figs. 7 and 8, by way of examples, the present disclosure is further directed to the packaging system 300. In the disclosed examples, the packaging system 300 includes the article 302 and the carton 100 used for packaging the article 302. The following are examples of the packaging system 300, according to the present disclosure. Examples of the packaging system 300 include a number of elements, features, and components. Not all of the elements,Docket No. 25013-WO features, and / or components described or illustrated in one example are required in that example. Some or all of the elements, features, and / or components described or illustrated in one example can be combined with other examples in various ways without the need to include other elements, features, and / or components described in those other examples, even though such combination or combinations are not explicitly described or illustrated by example herein.

[0043] As illustrated in Figs. 7 and 8, in one or more examples, the packaging system 300 includes the carton 100 and the article 302. In one or more examples, the carton 100 includes the longitudinal axis 102, the first end 106, the second end 108 opposite the first end 106 along the longitudinal axis 102, and the plurality of panels 110. The first end 106 is open. The second end 108 is closable. The plurality of panels 110 form the interior volume 104 of the carton 100. The article 302 is located (e.g., inserted or slid) within the interior volume 104 of the carton 100 and is at least partially surrounded by the plurality of panels 110. The article 302 is inserted into the interior volume 104 and removed from the interior volume 104 through the first end 106. The second end 108 is closable in response to insertion of the article 302 into the interior volume 104. The article 302 is retained within the interior volume 104 by the second end 108.

[0044] As illustrated in Fig. 7, in one or more examples of the packaging system 300, the second end 108 of the carton 100 is planar to support the carton 100 in the upright position in which the longitudinal axis 102 is vertically oriented.

[0045] While not explicitly described, in various examples, the packaging system 300 includes any one or more of the elements, components, and / or features of the carton 100 as described herein and illustrated in Figs. 1-6.

[0046] The article 302 may be any one of various types of primary product packaged by the carton 100. In one or more examples, the article 302 is used for packaging food products. For illustration, the article 302 is shown as a food container (e.g., a dish-shaped container). The article 302 may be made from materials suitable in composition for packaging the particular food product, such as. but not limited to, aluminum and / or other metals, glass, coated paper board, plastics (e.g., PET, LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, PP, PS, PVC, EVOH, and Nylon) and the like or any combination thereof. The carton 100, according to the present disclosure, may accommodate the article 302 having any one of various shapes.Docket No. 25013-WO

[0047] In one or more examples, the article 302 is a product container that includes a base forming an internal volume and having an opening. For example, the base can include a bottom and a sidewall (e.g., interconnected sidewalls or a continuous sidewall) that form the internal volume configured to hold a food product. The opening is opposite the bottom and is formed by an upper edge of the sidewall. The article 302 can also include a rim formed along the upper edge of base (e.g., of the sidewall). The rim forms a perimeter of the opening. In one or more examples, the rim can project outwardly from the base to form a peripheral lip. In one or more examples, the article 302 can also include a cover coupled to the base and covering the opening. For example, the cover may include a peel-away film that is secured to the base about the rim. In these examples, one of the panels 110 (e.g., the top panel 114) is configured to be positioned over the cover to protect the cover when the article 302 is inserted in the carton 100.

[0048] Referring to Fig. 9, by way of examples, the present disclosure is also directed to the blank 200. In the disclosed examples, the blank 200 is a blank of sheet material used to form (e.g., make, erect, or otherwise construct) the carton 100 (Figs. 1-8). The following are examples of the blank 200, according to the present disclosure. Examples of the blank 200 include a number of elements, features, and components. Not all of the elements, features, and / or components described or illustrated in one example are required in that example. Some or all of the elements, features, and / or components described or illustrated in one example can be combined with other examples in various ways without the need to include other elements, features, and / or components described in those other examples, even though such combination or combinations are not explicitly described or illustrated by example herein.

[0049] The blank 200 includes a linear series of panels 110 connected one to the next by respective fold lines 210. The blank 200 can be formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term “suitable substrate” includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and any other suitable material known to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings provided herein.

[0050] Any one of the fold lines and / or hinge lines described herein, may include any suitable predefined or preformed line of weakening and / or line of separation known to those skilled in theDocket No. 25013-WO art and guided by the teachings herein provided, such as a crease, a score, a perforation, or the like. Generally, the fold lines transform the blank 200 into a plurality of separate but integrals panels, flaps, tabs, and the like.

[0051] As illustrated in Fig. 9, in one or more examples, the blank 200 includes a series of the panels 110 connected along a plurality of the fold lines 210. The panels 110 are folded about respecting fold lines 210 relative to each other to form the carton 100. In one or more examples, the blank 200 (e.g., the series of panels 110) include the first side panel 116, the top panel 114, the second side panel 118, the bottom panel 112, and the end panel 122. The top panel 114 is connected to the first side panel 116 along a first fold line 254. The second side panel 118 is connected to the top panel 114 along a second fold line 256. The bottom panel 112 is connected to the second side panel 118 along a third fold line 258. The end panel 122 is connected to the top panel 114 along a fourth fold line 238.

[0052] In one or more examples of the blank 200, the end panel 122 includes the end portion 162 and the bottom portion 164. The end portion 162 is coupled to the top panel 114 along the fourth fold line 238. The bottom portion 164 is coupled to the end portion 162 along a fifth fold line 264.

[0053] In one or more examples of the blank 200, the end panel 122 includes the first flap 166 and the second flap 168. The first flap 166 is coupled to the end portion 162 along a sixth fold line 266. The second flap 168 is coupled to the end portion 162 along a seventh fold line 268.

[0054] In one or more examples of the blank 200, the first side panel 116 includes the first endedge 142 and the second end-edge 144. The top panel 114 includes the first end-edge 136 opposite the fourth fold line 238. The second side panel 118 includes the first end-edge 146 and the second end-edge 148. The bottom panel 112 includes the first end-edge 132 and the second end-edge 134. The second end-edge 144 of the first side panel 116, the fourth fold line 238, the second end-edge 148 of the second side panel 118, and the second end-edge 134 of the bottom panel 112 are coplanar.

[0055] In one or more examples, the blank 200 includes the tab 128. The tab 128 is connected to the first side panel 116 along an eighth fold line 252.Docket No. 25013-WO

[0056] In one or more examples of the blank 200, the second side panel 118 includes the top portion 174 and the bottom portion 172. The top portion 174 is connected to the top panel 114 along the second fold line 256. The bottom portion 172 is connected to the top portion 174 along a ninth fold line 272. The bottom panel 112 is connected to the bottom portion 172 along the third fold line 258.

[0057] In one or more examples, the tab 128, the first side panel 116, the top panel 114, the second side panel 118 (e.g., the top portion 174 and the bottom portion 172), and the bottom panel 112 are connected in linear series. Generally, the fold lines 210 separating the tab 128, the first side panel 116, the top panel 114, the second side panel 118 (e.g., the top portion 174 and the bottom portion 172), and the bottom panel 112 extend the width of the blank 200 and separate the tab 128, the first side panel 116, the top panel 114, the second side panel 118 (e.g., the top portion 174 and the bottom portion 172), and the bottom panel 112 from each other. The tab 128, the first side panel 116, the top panel 114, the second side panel 118 (e.g., the top portion 174 and the bottom portion 172), and the bottom panel 112 are hingedly movable (e.g., foldable) relative to each other such that the tab 128, the first side panel 116, the top panel 114, the second side panel 118 (e.g., the top portion 174 and the bottom portion 172), and the bottom panel 112 move from the flat configuration of the blank 200 (Fig. 9) to the constructed configuration of the carton 100 (Figs. 1-6).

[0058] In one or more examples, the fold lines 210 separating and connecting the tab 128, the first side panel 116, the top panel 114, the second side panel 118 (e.g., the top portion 174 and the bottom portion 172), and the bottom panel 112 are parallel to each other.

[0059] While not explicitly described, in various examples, the blank 200 includes one or more of the elements, components, and / or features corresponding to elements, components, and / or features of the carton 100 as described herein and illustrated in Figs. 1-6.

[0060] For clarity, it should be recognized that a first surface of the blank 200 is exposed (e.g., projecting towards the viewer) in Fig. 9. The first surface of the blank 200 becomes an exterior surface of the carton 100 (Figs. 1-8). The blank 200 also includes a corresponding second (e.g., underside) surface that is not seen in Fig. 9. The second surface of the blank 200 becomes an interior surface of the carton 100.Docket No. 25013-WO

[0061] In one or more examples, the first surface of the blank 200, forming the exterior surface of the carton 100, is coated. In one or more examples, at least a portion of the first surface of the blank 200, forming the exterior surface of the carton 100, is printed with various product information about the article 302. For example, the exterior surface of the top panel 114 may include branding or other product identification that is easily viewable by the consumer when the packaging system 300 is displayed in the upright orientation. In one or more examples, at least a portion of the exterior surface of the tab 128 or the bottom panel 112 is left uncoated (e.g., as shown by an uncoated area illustrated by phantom lines) to better facilitate the adhesive bond between the tab 128 and the bottom panel 112.

[0062] In one or more examples, an adhesive is applied to the exterior surface of the tab 128 to couple the tab 128 to a portion of the interior surface of the bottom panel 112 when the carton 100 is formed from the blank 200.

[0063] Referring to Fig. 10, by way of examples, present disclosure is additionally directed to a method 1000 for packaging an article 302, also referred to herein as a packaging method. The following are examples of the method 1000, according to the present disclosure. In one or more examples, the method 1000 is implemented using the blank 200 (Fig. 9) and / or the carton 100 (Figs. 1-6) and results in the packaging system 300 (Figs. 7 and 8). Examples of the method 1000 include a number of elements, steps, operations, or processes. Not all of the elements, steps, operations, or processes described or illustrated in one example are required in that example. Some or all of the elements, steps, operations, or processes described or illustrated in one example can be combined with other examples in various ways without the need to include other elements, steps, operations, or processes described in those other examples, even though such combination or combinations are not explicitly described or illustrated by example herein.

[0064] In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of providing 1002 the blank 200. The blank 200 includes the plurality of panels 110 connected together by the plurality of fold lines 210. The method 1000 includes a step of manipulating 1004 the blank 200. The blank 200 (e.g., the panels 110) are manipulated such that the panels 110 form the carton 100. The carton 100 includes the longitudinal axis 102, the first end 106, the second end 108 opposite the first end 106 along the longitudinal axis 102, and an interior volume 104. The first end 106 isDocket No. 25013-WO open. The second end 108 is closable. The method 1000 includes a step of inserting 1006 the article 302 into the carton 100. The article 302 is inserted within the interior volume 104 such that at least a portion of the article 302 is surrounded by the panels 110. The method 1000 includes a step of enclosing 1008 the second end 108. The second end 108 is closed in response to inserting the article 302.

[0065] In one or more examples, the step of enclosing 1008 the second end 108 includes a step of moving (e.g., pushing with the article 302) the end panel 122 from the inwardly folded configuration to the closed configuration in response to inserting the article 302 and moving the article 302 toward the second end 108.

[0066] In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of supporting 1010 the carton 100 in upright position. In these examples, the carton 100 is supported in the upright position on the second end 108 such that the longitudinal axis 102 is vertically oriented. In these examples, the second end 108 of the carton 100 is planar.

[0067] Referring to Fig. 11, by way of examples, present disclosure is further directed to a method 2000 for forming the carton 100, also referred to herein as a forming method. The following are examples of the method 2000. according to the present disclosure. In one or more examples, the method 2000 is implemented using the blank 200 (Fig. 9). Examples of the method 2000 include a number of elements, steps, operations, or processes. Not all of the elements, steps, operations, or processes described or illustrated in one example are required in that example. Some or all of the elements, steps, operations, or processes described or illustrated in one example can be combined with other examples in various ways without the need to include other elements, steps, operations, or processes described in those other examples, even though such combination or combinations are not explicitly described or illustrated by example herein.

[0068] In one or more examples, the method 2000 includes a step of forming 2002 the blank 200. The blank 200 includes a series of panels 110 connected along the plurality of fold lines 210. The method 2000 includes a step of manipulating 2004 the blank 200 and a step of forming 2006 the carton 100. The panels 110 of the blank 200 are manipulated or folded about the fold lines 210 to form the carton 100. The carton 100 includes the longitudinal axis 102, the first end 106, the second end 108 opposite the first end 106 along the longitudinal axis 102, the bottomDocket No. 25013-WO panel 112, the top panel 1 14 spaced away from the bottom panel 112, the first side panel 116 connecting the bottom panel 112 and the top panel 114, the second side panel 118 connecting the bottom panel 112 and the top panel 114 and spaced away from the first side panel 116, the end panel 122 extending between the bottom panel 112, the top panel 114, the first side panel 116, and the second side panel 118, and the interior volume 104. The method 2000 includes a step of folding 2008 the end panel 122. The end panel 122 is folded along one of the fold lines 210 relative to the top panel 114 such that the end panel 122 is positioned in the interior volume 104 and encloses the second end 108 in response to an article 302 being inserted within the interior volume 104.

[0069] In one or more examples, the method 2000 includes a step of flattening 2010 the carton 100.

[0070] The disclosed carton 100 provides a minimal-material solution, with comparable performance (e.g., integrity and market) to a conventional 5-sided partially enclosed carton and 6-sided fully enclosed carton. The carton 100 completely covers the top of the article 302 (e.g., the food container) to protect the cover (e.g., the film & seal area), which is more susceptible to damage and puncturing. The blank 200 and the carton 100 formed from the blank 200 includes an end panel 122 that is movable into a closed configuration or position to retain the article 302 in the carton 100, making the carton 100 and the article 302 into a single packaging unit (e.g., the packaging system 300). The blank 200 can be secured to form the carton 100 using either adhesive or mechanical locking features. The blank 200 includes a series of fold lines (e.g., creases) that facilitate the paperboard to conform and contour around the article 302. The planar second end-edge 108 (e.g., flat lower end-edge) of the carton 100 functions as a platform from which the article 302 can be stood on-end to allow the broad face of the packaging system 300 (e.g., the exterior surface of the top panel 114) to face customers when on shelves.

[0071] In one or more examples, the method 2000 for forming the carton 100 from the blank 200 and the method 1000 for packaging the article 302 using the carton 100 include a series of sequential folding operations in a straight-line machine so that the carton 100 is not required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to anyDocket No. 25013-WO particular folding process and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

[0072] The preceding detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific examples described by the present disclosure. Other examples having different structures and operations do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure. Like reference numerals may refer to the same feature, element, or component in the different drawings. Throughout the present disclosure, any one of a plurality of items may be referred to individually as the item and a plurality of items may be referred to collectively as the items and may be referred to with like reference numerals. Moreover, as used herein, a feature, element, component, or step preceded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding a plurality of features, elements, components, or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited.

[0073] Illustrative, non-exhaustive examples, which may be. but are not necessarily, claimed, of the subject matter according to the present disclosure are provided above. Reference herein to “example” means that one or more feature, structure, element, component, characteristic, and / or operational step described in connection with the example is included in at least one aspect, embodiment, and / or implementation of the subject matter according to the present disclosure. Thus, the phrases “an example,” “another example,” “one or more examples,” and similar language throughout the present disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example. Further, the subject matter characterizing any one example may, but does not necessarily, include the subject matter characterizing any other example. Moreover, the subject matter characterizing any one example may be, but is not necessarily, combined with the subject matter characterizing any other example.

[0074] As used herein, a system, apparatus, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware “configured to” perform a specified function is indeed capable of performing the specified function without any alteration, rather than merely having potential to perform the specified function after further modification. In other words, the system, apparatus, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware “configured to” perform a specified function is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed for the purpose of performing the specified function. As used herein, “configured to” denotes existingDocket No. 25013-WO characteristics of a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that enable the system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware to perform the specified function without further modification. For purposes of this disclosure, a system, apparatus, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware described as being “configured to” perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being “adapted to” and / or as being “operative to” perform that function.

[0075] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "first," "second," “third,” etc. are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a “second” item does not require or preclude the existence of, e.g., a “first” or lower-numbered item, and / or, e.g., a “third” or higher-numbered item.

[0076] As used herein, the phrase “at least one of,” when used with a list of items, means different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used and only one of each item in the list may be needed. For example, “at least one of item A, item B, and item C” may include, without limitation, item A or item A and item B. This example also may include item A, item B, and item C, or item B and item C. In other examples, “at least one of’ may be, for example, without limitation, two of item A, one of item B, and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; and other suitable combinations. As used herein, the term “and / or” and the “ / ” symbol includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0077] As used herein, the term “approximately” refers to or represents a condition that is close to. but not exactly, the stated condition that still performs the desired function or achieves the desired result. As an example, the term “approximately” refers to a condition that is within an acceptable predetermined tolerance or accuracy, such as to a condition that is within 10% of the stated condition. However, the term “approximately” does not exclude a condition that is exactly the stated condition. As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to a condition that is essentially the stated condition that performs the desired function or achieves the desired result.

[0078] For the purpose of the present disclosure, terms such as “inner,” “interior,” “outer,” “exterior,” “lower,” “upper,” “bottom,” “top,” “front,” “rear,” “side” and similar terms or other forms of such terms are relative and refer to an example of a spatial relationship betweenDocket No. 25013-WO structures, elements, items, components or features or indicate orientations determined in relation to the carton 100 (e.g., Figs. 1-6) and packaging system 300 (Figs. 7 and 8). As such, examples of the carton 100, the blank 200, and the packaging system 300, described herein and illustrated in the figures, are not intended to be limited by the specific relative terms used to describe any structure, element, item, component or feature of the carton 100, the blank 200, or the packaging system 300.

[0079] Figs. 1-9, referred to above, may represent functional elements, features, or components thereof and do not necessarily imply any particular structure. Accordingly, modifications, additions and / or omissions may be made to the illustrated structure. Additionally, those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all elements, features, and / or components described and illustrated in Figs. 1-9, referred to above, need be included in every example and not all elements, features, and / or components described herein are necessarily depicted in each illustrative example. Accordingly, some of the elements, features, and / or components described and illustrated in Figs. 1-9 may be combined in various ways without the need to include other features described and illustrated in Figs. 1-9, other drawing figures, and / or the accompanying disclosure, even though such combination or combinations are not explicitly illustrated herein. Similarly, additional features not limited to the examples presented, may be combined with some or all of the features shown and described herein. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the schematic illustrations of the examples depicted in Figs. 1 -9, referred to above, are not meant to imply structural limitations with respect to the illustrative example. Rather, although one illustrative structure is indicated, it is to be understood that the structure may be modified when appropriate. Accordingly, modifications, additions and / or omissions may be made to the illustrated structure. Furthermore, elements, features, and / or components that serve a similar, or at least substantially similar, purpose are labeled with like numbers in each of Figs. 1-9, and such elements, features, and / or components may not be discussed in detail herein with reference to each of Figs. 1-9.Similarly, all elements, features, and / or components may not be labeled in each of Figs. 1-9, but reference numerals associated therewith may be utilized herein for consistency.

[0080] In Figs. 10 and 11. referred to above, the blocks may represent operations, steps, and / or portions thereof and lines connecting the various blocks do not imply any particular order or dependency of the operations or portions thereof. It will be understood that not all dependenciesDocket No. 25013-WO among the various disclosed operations are necessarily represented. Figs. 10 and 1 1 and the accompanying disclosure describing the operations of the disclosed methods set forth herein should not be interpreted as necessarily determining a sequence in which the operations are to be performed. Rather, although one illustrative order is indicated, it is to be understood that the sequence of the operations may be modified when appropriate. Accordingly, modifications, additions and / or omissions may be made to the operations illustrated and certain operations may be performed in a different order or simultaneously. Additionally, those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all operations described need be performed.

[0081] Further, references throughout the present specification to features, advantages, or similar language used herein do not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the examples disclosed herein should be, or are in, any single example. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an example is included in at least one example. Thus, discussion of features, advantages, and similar language used throughout the present disclosure may, but does not necessarily, refer to the same example.

[0082] The described features, advantages, and characteristics of one example may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more other examples. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the examples described herein may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular example. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain examples that may not be present in all examples. Furthermore, although various examples of the carton 100, blank 200, packaging system 300, method 1000, and method 2000 have been shown and described, modifications may occur to those skilled in the art upon reading the specification. The present application includes such modifications and is limited only by the scope of the claims.

Claims

Docket No. 25013-WOWhat is claimed is:

1. A carton comprising: a longitudinal axis; a first end; a second end opposite the first end along the longitudinal axis: and a plurality of panels that form an interior volume, wherein: the interior volume is configured to receive an article; the first end is open for inserting the article into the interior volume and removing the article from the interior volume; and the second end is configured to close in response to inserting the article for retaining the article within the interior volume.

2. The carton of Claim 1, wherein the second end is planar to support the carton in an upright position in which the longitudinal axis is vertically oriented.

3. The carton of Claim 1, wherein the panels comprise: a bottom panel; a top panel spaced away from the bottom panel; a first side panel connecting the bottom panel and the top panel; a second side panel connecting the bottom panel and the top panel and spaced away from the first side panel; and an end panel extending between the bottom panel, the top panel, the first side panel, and the second side panel to enclose the second end.

4. The carton of Claim 3, wherein the end panel is coupled to the top panel.

5. The carton of Claim 3, wherein: the bottom panel comprises a first end-edge and a second end-edge; the top panel comprises a first end-edge and a second end-edge;Docket No. 25013-WO the first side panel comprises a first end-edge and a second end-edge; the second side panel comprises a first end-edge and a second end-edge; and the second end of the bottom panel, the second end-edge of the top panel, the second endedge of the first side panel, and the second end-edge of the second side panel are coplanar and form a second end-edge of the carton configured to support the carton in an upright position in which the longitudinal axis is vertically oriented.

6. The carton of Claim 5, wherein the end panel extends from the second end-edge of the top panel.

7. The carton of Claim 6, wherein the end panel is pivotable about the second end-edge relative to the top panel to enclose the second end of the carton.

8. The carton of Claim 3, further comprising a tab that connects the first side panel and the bottom panel.

9. The carton of Claim 8, wherein the tab extends from the first side panel, overlaps a portion of the bottom panel, and is adhesively bonded to the bottom panel.

10. The carton of Claim 3, wherein the end panel comprises: an end portion extending from and pivotable relative to the top panel; and a bottom portion extending from and pivotable relative to the end portion.

11. The carton of Claim 10, wherein the end panel further comprises: a first flap extending from and pivotable relative to the end portion; and a second flap extending from and pivotable relative to the end portion opposite the first flap.

12. The carton of Claim 3, wherein: the second side panel comprises: a bottom portion extending from the bottom panel; andDocket No. 25013-WO a top portion extending between the bottom portion and the top panel; and the top portion is pivotable relative to the bottom portion.

13. A blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising: a first side panel; a top panel connected to the first side panel along a first fold line; a second side panel connected to the top panel along a second fold line; a bottom panel connected to the second side panel along a third fold line; and an end panel connected to the top panel along a fourth fold line.

14. The blank of Claim 13, wherein the end panel comprises: an end portion coupled to the top panel along the fourth fold line; and a bottom portion coupled to the end portion along a fifth fold line.

15. The blank of Claim 14, wherein the end panel further comprises: a first flap coupled to the end portion along a sixth fold line; and a second flap coupled to the end portion along a seventh fold line.

16. The blank of Claim 13, wherein: the first side panel comprises a first end-edge and a second end-edge; the top panel comprises a first end-edge opposite the fourth fold line; the second side panel comprises a first end-edge and a second end-edge; the bottom panel comprises a first end-edge and a second end-edge; and the second end-edge of the first side panel, the fourth fold line, the second end-edge of the second side panel, and the second end-edge of the bottom panel are coplanar.

17. The blank of Claim 13, further comprising a tab connected to the first side panel along an eighth fold line.

18. The blank of Claim 13, wherein: the second side panel comprises:Docket No. 25013-WO a top portion connected to the top panel along the second fold line; and a bottom portion connected to the top portion along a ninth fold line; and the bottom panel is connected to the bottom portion along the third fold line.

19. A method for packaging an article, the method comprising: providing a blank comprising a plurality of panels; manipulating the blank such that the panels form a carton comprising a longitudinal axis, a first end that is open, a second end that is closable opposite the first end along the longitudinal axis, and an interior volume; inserting the article within the interior volume such that at least a portion of the article is surrounded by the panels; and enclosing the second end in response to inserting the article.

20. The method of Claim 19, further comprises supporting the carton in an upright position on the second end such that the longitudinal axis is vertically oriented, wherein the second end of the carton is planar.

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