A blank for a spoilage retarding box

Abstract

A blank for a spoilage retarding box including: first and second end blanks; a body blank including: a planar base panel hingedly connected to opposing planar first and second wall panels; and a lid panel hingedly connected to the first wall panel; wherein when the blanks are formed into the box, the box includes at least one airflow channel that facilitates airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes, thereby retarding the spoilage of goods contained therein.

Description

[0001] A BLANK FOR A SPOILAGE RETARDING BOX

[0002] Technical Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a blank for a spoilage retarding box.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] Boxes for holding perishable foodstuffs, such as fruit, must be capable of not only holding and protecting the foodstuffs from physical damage during storage and / or transport, but must also aid in reducing the rate or extent of spoilage of the held foodstuffs. Existing solutions comprise a box, usually made from a folded cardboard blank and a plastic bag placed therein, usually referred to as a polybag. The box offers structural rigidity to both hold the foodstuffs but also enable the stacking of boxes on one another, while the plastic bag helps the foodstuffs to retain moisture and protect the fruit from the effects of shrivel. The use of the plastic bag can be wasteful, add additional cost to the box and contributes to environmental waste.

[0006] Further, some existing boxes, to allow for airflow around and through the boxes to facilitate adequate cooling of the boxes when they are palletized may include a plurality of holes. Without the poly bag disposed inside the box to shield the goods, these holes allow for moisture inside the box (such as within foodstuffs stored within the box) to escape, leading to spoilage of the foodstuffs. Accordingly, existing boxes may not be capable of providing adequate sealing of the box (to retard spoilage) and adequate airflow around / through the box for cooling purposes, without the use of the poly bag, which as previously stated, is wasteful, adds additional cost to the box and contributes to environmental waste.

[0007] It is generally desirable to overcome or ameliorate one or more of the above-mentioned difficulties, or at least provide a useful alternative.

[0008] Summary of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, there is provided a blank for a spoilage retarding box including:

[0010] first and second end blanks;a body blank including:

[0011] a planar base panel hingedly connected to opposing planar first and second wall panels; and

[0012] a lid panel hingedly connected to the first wall panel;

[0013] wherein when the blanks are formed into the box, the box includes at least one airflow channel that facilitates airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes, thereby retarding the spoilage of goods contained therein.

[0014] According to some embodiments the base panel is hingedly connected to the first and second wall panels by respective base airflow panels.

[0015] According to some embodiments when the body blank is formed into the box the base airflow panels define transitional zones between the base panel and the respective first and second wall panels.

[0016] According to some embodiments the lid panel is a first lid panel, and the base blank further includes a second lid panel hingedly connected to the second wall panel.

[0017] According to some embodiments an edge of the first lid panel includes a lid locating feature and an opposing edge of the second lid panel includes a corresponding lid locating feature.

[0018] According to some embodiments the formed box is a first box, and when the first box is placed end to end with a second box, the lid locating features cause a lid joining seam of the first box to be offset relative to a lid joining seam of the second box.

[0019] According to some embodiments the first lid panel and the second lid panel are hingedly connected to the respective first and second wall panels by respective lid airflow panels.

[0020] According to some embodiments when the body blank is formed into the box the lid airflow panels define transitional zones between the first and second wall panels and the respective first and second lid panels when the lid panels are in a closed position.

[0021] According to some embodiments the first and second end blanks each include a first panel hingedly connected to a second panel.According to some embodiments the first end blank further includes a third panel hingedly connected to the first panel.

[0022] According to some embodiments the first end blank includes one or more locating projection receiving slots, and when the first blank is folded about the hinged connection between the first panel and the third panel, the third panel substantially blocks at least one of the one or more locating projection receiving slots.

[0023] According to some embodiments the lid panel includes at least one airflow channel substantially extending from one edge of the lid panel to an opposing edge of the lid panel to facilitate airflow when the lid panel is in a closed position and the box is palletised with other similar boxes.

[0024] According to some embodiments the first and second end blanks are configured to substantial resist the majority of forces applied to the box compared to the wall panels.

[0025] According to some embodiments the base panel further includes at least one base securing flap; the first wall panel includes at least one wall securing flap; and wherein when the box is formed, the at least one base securing flap and the at least one wall securing flap define a first end airflow channel that facilitates airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes.

[0026] According to some embodiments the first end airflow channel is defined by a first edge of the base securing flap and a first edge of the wall securing flap, wherein the first edge of the base securing flap and the first edge of the wall securing flap form an angle that is transverse to the planes defined by the base panel and the lid panel.

[0027] According to some embodiments a first edge of the first lid panel includes at least one slot projection; and wherein when the box is formed, the at least one slot projection and the at least one wall securing flap define a second end airflow channel that facilitates airflow around the box when the lid is in a closed position and when the box is palletised with other similar boxes.

[0028] According to some embodiments a first edge of the first lid panel includes a first slotprojection and a second slot projection, and the first slot projection and the second slot projection define a slot therebetween.

[0029] According to some embodiments the first end blank defines at least one locating projection that when the box is formed extends through the slot defined by the first and second slot projections of the first lid panel.

[0030] According to some embodiments the at least one locating projection includes the at least one hinged connection between the first and second panels of the first end blank.

[0031] According to some embodiments the base panel and at least one of the first end blank or the second end blank include a locating projection receiving slot, configured to receive a locating projection of another similar box.

[0032] According to some embodiments when the box is formed, the lid panel extends to cover at least one exposed edge of each of the first and second end blanks, thereby reducing moisture loss from the interior of the box.

[0033] According to some embodiments the lid panel extending to cover at least one exposed edge of each of the first and second end blanks further protects the at least one exposed edge of the first and second end blanks from damage.

[0034] According to some embodiments at least one corner of the first lid panel is configured to sit inside a corresponding first corner defined by the first wall blank, the second wall blank and / or the body blank.

[0035] According to some embodiments the at least one corner of the first lid panel includes a slit that allows for an interference fit between the at least one corner of the first lid panel and the corresponding first corner defined by the first wall blank, the second wall blank and / or the body blank.

[0036] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a box formed from:

[0037] a body blank according to any of the present disclosures;

[0038] a first end blank according to any of the present disclosures; and

[0039] a second end blank according to any of the present disclosures.According to some embodiments, the first end blank comprises two panels or three panels, and the second end blank comprises two panels or three panels.

[0040] One or more embodiments provide a kit of blanks for a spoilage retarding box including:

[0041] (a) a body blank including:

[0042] (i) a planar base panel;

[0043] (ii) planar first and second side wall panels hingedly coupled to respective opposing sides of the planar base panel by respective first and second base airflow panels hingedly coupled therebetween; and

[0044] (iii) planar first and second lid panels hingedly coupled to respective first and second side wall panels;

[0045] (b) first and second end blanks, including:

[0046] (i) a planar first end wall panel including two locating projections extending from a common side of the first end wall panel; and (ii) a planar second end wall panel including two locating projections extending from a common side of the second end wall panel; wherein the first and second end wall panels (3024, 3032) are coupled together by hinge) located between opposed locating projections,

[0047] wherein the kit is formed into the box when:

[0048] (a) the first and second side wall panels are arranged substantially normal to the base panel;

[0049] (b) the first and second end blanks are each folded about respective hinges so that first end wall panels overly and abut respective second end wall panels;

[0050] (c) arranging the first and second end blanks to extend normally from other opposed sides of the body blank; and

[0051] (d) the first and second lid panels are closed over the first and second end blanks so that the locating projections extend through slots formed in respective sections of the lid panels,

[0052] wherein the lid panels are at least partially secured in a closed position by way of frictional engagement between the locating projections and respective slots; and wherein the first and second base airflow panels are transverse to the respective first and second side wall panels when then the box is formed so as to facilitate airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes.Preferably, each slot defines a locking tab arranged for frictional engagement with respective locating projections extending therethrough. Preferably, the locating projections of the planar first end panels each include apertures shaped to at least partially receive locking tabs of slots of the lid panels to secure the box in a closed condition of use.

[0053] One or more embodiments provide a box formed from the above described kit.

[0054] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0055] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are hereafter described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0056] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a body blank for forming a box;

[0057] Figure IB is a planar view of the body blank of Figure 1A

[0058] Figure 2A is a perspective view of an end blank for forming a box;

[0059] Figure 2B is a planar view of the end blank of Figure 2A;

[0060] Figure 2C is a perspective view of the end blank of Figure 2A in a partially folded configuration;

[0061] Figure 3A is a perspective view of an end blank for forming a box;

[0062] Figure 3B is a planar view of the end blank of Figure 3A;

[0063] Figure 3C is a perspective view of the end blank of Figure 3A in a partially folded configuration;

[0064] Figure 4A is a perspective view of a box formed from the body blank as shown in Figure 1A and the end blanks of Figure 2A and / or Figure 2B in a closed configuration; Figure 4B is a perspective view of the box of Figure 4A in an open configuration;

[0065] Figure 4C is a top view of the box of Figure 4A;

[0066] Figure 4D is a side view of the box of Figure 4A;

[0067] Figure 4E is an end view of the box of Figure 4A;

[0068] Figure 4F is a bottom view of the box of Figure 4A;

[0069] Figure 5A is a perspective view of a body blank for forming a box;

[0070] Figure 5B is a planar view of the body blank of Figure 5A;

[0071] Figure 6A is a perspective view of an end blank for forming a box;

[0072] Figure 6B is a planar view of the end blank of Figure 6A;

[0073] Figure 7A is a perspective view of a box formed from the body blank of Figure 5A andthe end blank of Figure 6A in a closed configuration;

[0074] Figure 7B is a perspective view of the box of Figure 7A in an open configuration;

[0075] Figure 7C is a top view of the box of Figure 7A;

[0076] Figure 7D is a side view of the box of Figure 7A;

[0077] Figure 7E is an end view of the box of Figure 7A;

[0078] Figure 7F is a bottom view of the box of Figure 7A;

[0079] Figure 8A is an image of airflow channels defined by the box of Figure 4A;

[0080] Figure 8B is an image of airflow channels defined by the box of Figure 4A;

[0081] Figure 9 is an image of airflow channels defined by the box of Figure 4A;

[0082] Figure 10 is an image of airflow channels of the box of Figure 4A when the box is palletised;

[0083] Figure 11 is an image of airflow channels of the box of Figure 4A when the box is palletised;

[0084] Figure 12 is an image of airflow channels of the box of Figure 4A when the box is palletised;

[0085] Figure 13 is an image of airflow channels of the box of Figure 4A when the box is palletised;

[0086] Figure 14 is an image of airflow channels of the box of Figure 4A when the box is palletised;

[0087] Figure 15 is an image of airflow channels of the box of Figure 4A when the box is palletised;

[0088] Figure 16 is an image of the lid panel of the box of Figure 4A;

[0089] Figure 17 is an image of the lid panels of the box of Figure 4A;

[0090] Figure 18 is an image of airflow channels of the box of Figure 7A;

[0091] Figures 19A to 19D are images showing a forming process of the box of Figure 4; Figures 20A and 20B are images of a barrier that may be applied to the blanks of any one or more of Figures 1A to 3C and Figures 5A to 6B;

[0092] Figures 21A to 21D are images showing a forming process of the box of Figure 7A; Figure 22A is a perspective view of a body blank for forming a box;

[0093] Figure 22B is a planar view of the body blank of Figure 22A;

[0094] Figure 23A is a perspective view of a box formed from the body blank as shown in Figure 22A and the end blank of Figures 6A in a closed configuration;

[0095] Figure 23B is a perspective view of the box of Figure 23A in an open configuration; Figure 23C is a top view of the box of Figure 23A;

[0096] Figure 23D is a side view of the box of Figure 23A;

[0097] Figure 23E is an end view of the box of Figure 23A;Figure 23F is a bottom view of the box of Figure 23A;

[0098] Figures 24A to 24D are images showing a forming process of the box of Figure 23A; Figure 25A is a planar view of a kit including a body blank and first and second end blanks;

[0099] Figure 25B is a perspective view of a box formed from the kit of Figure 25A in a closed configuration;

[0100] Figure 25C is a perspective view of the box of Figure 25B in an open configuration; Figure 25D is a perspective view of the box of Figure 25B in a partially open configuration;

[0101] Figure 26A is a planar view of the body blank;

[0102] Figure 26B is a perspective view of the body blank;

[0103] Figure 27A is a planar view of the first end blank;

[0104] Figure 27B is a perspective view of the first end blank;

[0105] Figure 27C is a perspective view of the first end blank in a partially folded configuration;

[0106] Figure 28A is a planar view of the second end blank;

[0107] Figure 28B is a perspective view of the second end blank;

[0108] Figure 28C is a perspective view of the second end blank in a partially folded configuration;

[0109] Figures 29A to 29D are images showing a forming process of the box of Figure 25B. Figure 30A is a planar view of another kit including a body blank and first and second end blanks;

[0110] Figure 30B is a perspective view of a box formed from the kit of Figure 30A in a closed configuration;

[0111] Figure 30C is a perspective view of the box of Figure 30B in an open configuration; Figure 31A is a planar view of a further kit including a body blank and first and second end blanks; and

[0112] Figure 32B is a perspective view of a box formed from the kit of Figure 30A in a closed configuration.

[0113] Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments of the Invention

[0114] The blanks 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 and 2200 for a container (and also a formed container) shown in Figures 1A to 3C and 5A to 6B are configured to provide a sealed interior without the use of an internal removeable plastic liner (e.g. a poly bag). The blanks 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 and 2200 provide one or more airflow channelsaround the container when the container is palletised. The blanks 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 and 2200, through the sealed interior of the container restricts the loss of moisture from inside the box or other causes of spoilage of goods (e.g. foodstuffs contained therein). Further, through the provision of the airflow channels, the blanks 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 and 2200 enable the more efficient, more complete and more rapid cooling of containers when they are palletised. This improved cooling has multiple benefits including but not limited to: more consistent cooling throughout a pallet of containers; faster cooling of boxes once they are refrigerated, and improved energy use (e.g. by refrigeration means) due to the more efficient cooling of the containers, thereby leading to both cost and energy savings.

[0115] The blanks 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 and 2200 for a spoilage retarding box include: first and second end blanks; a body blank including: a planar base panel hingedly connected to opposing planar first and second wall panels; and a lid panel hingedly connected to the first wall panel; wherein when the blanks are formed into the box, the box includes at least one airflow channel that facilitates airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes. When a box is palletised, it may be placed in close proximity or in contact with one or more other similar boxes, one or more other different boxes or in close contact with the ground, a ceiling, and / or one or more walls. An airflow channel may also be referred to as an airflow conduit or a conduit.

[0116] By including at least one airflow channel that facilitates airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes the boxes enable the efficient, rapid and substantially thorough cooling of the palletised boxes. By facilitating the improved cooling, foodstuffs or other perishable goods stored within the boxes when they are palletised do not spoil as fast and / or to such an extent when compared to existing boxes.

[0117] According to some examples the base panel is hingedly connected to the first and second wall panels by respective base airflow panels. The base airflow panels create airflow channels around the particular formed box when it is palletised with other similar boxes by creating a gap between the floor, or another box placed beneath the particular box, and any other surface (such as a wall or another box) placed next to the particular box.In this example, when the body blank is formed into the box the base airflow panels define transitional zones between the base panel and the respective first and second wall panels. The transitional zones between the base panel and the respective first and second wall panels may also be referred to as chamfers. These chamfers create the airflow channels around the particular box. The chamfers also aid in the handling of the box, making it easier for a person or machine to lift the box off a surface by enabling hands, fingers or other appendages (such as a robot appendage) to get underneath the box to facilitate ease of lifting.

[0118] In some examples, the lid panel is a first lid panel, and the base blank further includes a second lid panel hingedly connected to the second wall panel. This enables the lid of the box to split in half when opened thus reducing the amount of clearance required to open the box.

[0119] In this example, an edge of the first lid panel includes a lid locating feature and an opposing edge of the second lid panel includes a corresponding lid locating feature. The corresponding lid locating features enable the first and second lid panels to interlock together, thereby sealing the box, keeping the moisture from the goods stored within inside the box, thereby stopping or slowing the spoilage of the goods.

[0120] In this example, the formed box is a first box, and when the first box is placed end to end with a second box, the lid locating features cause a lid joining seam of the first box to be offset relative to a lid joining seam of the second box. By offsetting the lid joining seams, the lid panels of adjacent boxes are stopped from abutting each other in such a way as to potentially lift each other thus allowing internal moisture to escape. This helps to keep the goods fresh.

[0121] In this example the first lid panel and the second lid panel are hingedly connected to the respective first and second wall panels by respective lid airflow panels. The lid airflow panels create airflow channels around the particular formed box when it is palletised with other similar boxes by creating a gap between the ceiling, or another box placed on top of the particular box, and any other surface (such as a wall or another box) placed next to the particular box.

[0122] Further in this example, when the body blank is formed into the box the lid airflow panels define transitional zones between the first and second wall panels and therespective first and second lid panels when the lid panels are in a closed position. The transitional zones between the wall panels and the respective first and second lid panels may also be referred to as chamfers. These chamfers create the airflow channels around the particular box.

[0123] According to some examples, the first and second end blanks each include a first panel hingedly connected to a second panel. By including two panels in the end blanks the structural strength of the end panels may be increased, thereby allowing the transition zones between the base and the walls and / or the walls and the lid panels to be included, as the added structural strength of the double layered end blanks enables the weakening of the wall panels, caused by the transitional zones, without weakening the box's overall structural strength. Further, the increased strength of the end blanks reduces wall panel bulge when a particular box has a large force applied to it, such as when it is palletised.

[0124] In some examples, the first end blank further includes a third panel hingedly connected to the first panel. By adding a third panel, the structural strength of the end blank may be even further increased even compared to the two panel embodiment. Further, by using a triple panel configuration, the blank may be overall thinner but provide the same amount of structural strength as a thicker material. In some examples, the third panel may be configured to block one or more apertures of the end blank, thereby further sealing the box and preventing spoilage of the goods.

[0125] Further in this example, the first end blank includes one or more locating projection receiving slots, and when the first blank is folded about the hinged connection between the first panel and the third panel, the third panel substantially blocks at least one of the one or more locating projection receiving slots.

[0126] By sealing the locating projection receiving slot, the interior of the box may be sealed to stop moisture from within the box escaping, thereby stopping or slowing the spoilage of the goods inside the box.

[0127] In some examples, the lid panel includes at least one airflow channel extending from one edge the lid panel to an opposing edge of the lid panel to facilitate airflow when the lid panel is in a closed position and the box is palletised with other similar boxes. The airflow channels create gaps between the surfaces of the lid panel and the box orceiling above the particular box, thereby facilitating improved airflow around the box.

[0128] In some examples the first and second end blanks are configured to substantial resist the majority of forces applied to the box compared to the wall panels. Or in other words, the end blanks are configured to provide the majority of the structural strength, support and / or rigidity to the formed box. By configuring the end blanks to provide the majority of the structural strength to the formed box, the removal of material and / or the shape of the body blank (and by extension the formed box) can be specifically adapted / configured to facilitate maximum airflow around the box.

[0129] In some examples the base panel further includes at least one base securing flap; the first wall panel includes at least one wall securing flap; and wherein when the box is formed, the at least one base securing flap and the at least one wall securing flap define a first end airflow channel that facilitates airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes.

[0130] This airflow channels enables air to flow between the end blank (or end wall) of the formed box and any surface that the end blank may be placed up against (such as a wall, or another box such as when the box is palletised).

[0131] In this example the first end airflow channel is defined by a first edge of the base securing flap and a first edge of the wall securing flap, wherein the first edge of the base securing flap and the first edge of the wall securing flap form an angle that is transverse to the planes defined by the base panel and the lid panel.

[0132] The base securing flaps and the wall securing flaps may include an angled edge such that when the box is formed, the angled edges of

[0133] In some examples, a first edge of the first lid panel includes at least one slot projection; and wherein when the box is formed, the at least one slot projection and the at least one wall securing flap define a second end airflow channel that facilitates airflow around the box when the lid is in a closed position and when the box is palletised with other similar boxes. This airflow channel enables air to flow between the end blank (or end wall) of the formed box and any surface that the end blank may be placed up against (such as a wall, or another box such as when the box is palletised).In some examples, a first edge of the first lid panel includes a first slot projection and a second slot projection, and the first slot projection and the second slot projection define a slot therebetween.

[0134] The slot provides for an additional airflow conduit when the box is palletised with other similar boxes. The slot also functions as a locating feature for one or more locating lugs of the first or second end blank when the box is formed, and / or one or more locating lugs of another box that the particular box is palletised with.

[0135] In this example, the first end blank defines at least one locating projection that when the box is formed extends through the slot defined by the first and second slot projections of the first lid panel. The locating projection enables the accurate stacking of additional boxes on top of the particular box when the particular box is palletised. This alignment enables the airflow channels to align properly such that they provide maximum airflow effectiveness.

[0136] Further in this example, the at least one locating projection includes the at least one hinged connection between the first and second panels of the first end blank. By including the hinged connection between at least the first and second panels of the first or second end blank, the locating projections are dual function, which reduces the blanks' complexity thereby enabling them to be produced more easily.

[0137] In some examples the base panel and at least one of the first end blank or the second end blank include a locating projection receiving slot, configured to receive a locating projection of another similar box.

[0138] The locating projection receiving slots enable the boxes to be stacked accurately when they are palletised, thereby enabling the properly alignment of the airflow channels, ensuring the airflow channels are enabling efficient airflow around the boxes.

[0139] In some examples, when the box is formed, the lid panel extends to cover at least one exposed edge of each of the first and second end blanks. This provides the benefit of further sealing the box, thereby reducing moisture loss from the interior of the box.

[0140] In this example, the lid panel extending to cover at least one exposed edge of each ofthe first and second end blanks further protects the at least one exposed edge of the first and second end blanks from damage. This enables the integrity of the end blank, and thereby the formed box to remain intact, inhibiting or stopping the goods inside from being damaged, spilling out or spoiling prematurely.

[0141] According to some examples, at least one corner of the first lid panel is configured to sit inside a corresponding first corner defined by the first wall blank, the second wall blank and / or the body blank. This further seals the box, inhibiting or preventing spoilage of the goods inside.

[0142] In this example, the at least one corner of the first lid panel includes a slit that allows for an interference fit between the at least one corner of the first lid panel and the corresponding first corner defined by the first wall blank, the second wall blank and / or the body blank. The interference fit ensures a tight seal of the box, slowing or stopping spoilage of the goods inside the box.

[0143] In some examples there is included a box formed from: a body blank according to any one or more of the present disclosures; a first end blank according to any one or more of the present disclosures; and a second end blank according to any one or more of the present disclosures. The formed box enables the more efficient cooling of stored goods by enabling effective airflow around the boxes when they are palletised. The formed box also keeps goods from spoiling by creating a well-sealed environment that, among other things, helps in keeping moisture inside the box.

[0144] In some examples, the first end blank of the formed box comprises two panels or three panels, and the second end blank of the formed box comprises two panels or three panels. By enabling the use of two or three panels end blanks, the attributes of the formed box, including strength and / or number of sealed apertures, may be varied depending on the particular use of the box.

[0145] According to some embodiments, the blanks 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 and 2200 may be made from, comprised of or otherwise include cardboard. In some other embodiments, the blanks 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 and 2200 may be made from corrugated board. In yet other embodiments, the blanks 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 and 2200 may be formed from solid fibre paperboard. The blanks 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 and 2200 may additionally or alternatively be made from any other suitablematerial.

[0146] A more in-depth description of the present disclosures will now be made with reference to the figures.

[0147] Figures 1A to 3C depict blanks that when appropriately erected and / or formed make the box 400 as depicted in Figures 4A to 4F.

[0148] As shown in Figure 1A, the body blank 100 may include base panel 105, first wall panel 110, second wall panel 112, first lid panel 115 and second lid panel 117. In some embodiments the body blank 100 may not include second lid panel 117 and may only include first lid panel 115. The body blank 100 may be folded or otherwise erected to form at least part of the box 400, as depicted in Figures 4A to 4F.

[0149] The base panel 105 is hingedly connected to the first wall panel 110 and the second wall panel 112. The first wall panel is hingedly connected to both the base panel 105 and the first lid panel 115. The second wall panel 112 is hingedly connected to the base panel 105. In some embodiments wherein the body blank includes the second lid panel 117, the second wall 112 panel is hingedly connected to the second lid panel 117.

[0150] The base panel 105, as shown in Figure IB includes base securing flap 120 and locating projection receiving slots 135. The base securing flap 120 is hingedly attached to the base panel 105. The base securing flap 120 may be foldable to lie at an approximate right angle (90 degrees) to the base panel 105. When folded into the substantially right-angle position, the base securing flap 120 may be secured to an end blank 200, 300 as part of the box forming process.

[0151] The base securing flaps 120 may include one or more angled edges that are transverse to the plane defined by the hinged connection between the base securing flap 120 and the base panel 105 and the plane defined by an unconnected edge (free edge) of the base securing flap 120. When the base securing flap 120 is folded to sit at a substantially right angle to the base panel 105, the one or more angled edges of the base securing flap 120 may be transverse to the plane defined by the base panel 105 and the plane defined by the unconnected edge (free edge) of the base securing flap 120.The locating projection receiving slots 135 may each be configured to receive a respective locating projection 405, such as when the formed box 400 is placed on top of another similar box (e.g. another formed box 400).

[0152] Disposed between the first wall panel 110 and the base panel 105 and / or the second wall panel 112 and the base panel 105 are base airflow panels 140. The base airflow panels 140 are hingedly connected to the first wall panel 110 and the base panel 105 and the second wall panel 112 and the base panel 105. When the body blank 100 is folded to be incorporated into the formed box 400, the base airflow panels 140 define transitional zones between the base panel 105 and the respective first and second wall panels 110, 112. In other words, when the body blank 100 is folded to be incorporated into the formed box 400, the base airflow panels 140 define chamfers at the edges of the box 400 proximal to the base panel 100. The chamfers effectively remove material from the edges of the box 400 such that space can be created between the box 400 and other structures, such as when the box 400 is palletised with other boxes 400, or other types of boxes, air can flow more easily between said palletised boxes.

[0153] Further, the chamfers formed by the base airflow panels 140 also aid in easy picking up of the formed box 400, as the raised edge of the box allows the box to be gripped more easily.

[0154] Disposed between the first wall panel 110 and the first lid panel 115 is airflow panel 145. In some embodiments wherein the body blank 100 includes the second lid panel 117, another lid airflow panel 145 is disposed between the second wall panel 112 and the second lid panel 117.

[0155] The lid airflow panels 145 are hingedly connected to the first wall panel 110 and the lid panel 115, and the second wall panel 112 and the second lid panel 117. When the body blank 100 is folded to be incorporated into the formed box 400, the lid airflow panels 145 define transitional zones between the lid panels 115, 117 and the respective first and second wall panels 110, 112. In other words, when the body blank 100 is folded to be incorporated into the formed box 400, the lid airflow panels 145 define chamfers at the edges of the box 400 proximal to the lid panels 115, 117. The chamfers effectively remove material from the edges of the box 400 such that spacecan be created between the box 400 and other structures, such as when the box 400 is palletised with other boxes 400, or other types of boxes, air can flow more easily between said palletised boxes.

[0156] The first wall panel 110 and the second wall panel 112 include wall securing flaps 125, According to some embodiments, the wall securing flaps 125 are hingedly attached to opposing ends of the wall panels 110, 112. The wall securing flaps 125 are hingedly connected such that they may be folded in to place during the forming of the box 400. In some embodiments, the wall securing flaps 125 are folded to form a substantially right angle with the respective wall panels 110, 112 during erection of the box 400. The wall securing flaps 125 may be configured to be affixed to a wall blank 410 during assembly of the box 400.

[0157] The first lid panel 115, and in some embodiments the second lid panel 117, include(s) at least one first slot projection 150. In some embodiments the first lid panel 115 and / or the second lid panel 117 include a second slot projection 152. In some embodiments, the first slot projection 150 and the second slot projection 152 define a slot 155 therebetween. In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figure IB, the slot 155 may be an open slot. In some embodiments, the slot 155 may be a closed slot. In some embodiments, wherein the slot 155 is open, it may facilitate extraction / removal of waste material created when the slot 155 is cut from the blank 100. This can reduce unwanted waste, such as when the box 400 is delivered to a customer, or waste that may cause malfunctions in forming machinery.

[0158] According to some embodiments, the first lid panel 115 may include a lid locating feature 160 and the second lid panel 117 may include a corresponding lid locating feature 162. The lid locating features 160, 162 may be corresponding such that when the lid panels 115, 117 are in a closed position, the lid locating features 160, 162 align with each other to aid in sealing the box 400 or aid in keeping the lid closed, thereby keeping moisture within the box 400, preventing or slowing spoilage of goods inside the box.

[0159] The end blank 200, as shown in Figure 2A, is configured to engage with the body blank 100 to at least partially form the box 400. The end blank 200 may include first panel 205. In some embodiments, the end blank 200 may include second panel 210. The first panel 205 and the second panel 210 may be hingedly attached by hingedconnection 225. As shown in Figure 2A the hinged connections 225 may define one or more slots and / or apertures in the blank 200. In some embodiments, the hinged connections 225 may be formed by cutting one or more aperture or slots into (or out of) the blank 200.

[0160] The end blank 200, as shown in Figure 2B, may include end locating projection receiving slots 230 configured to each receive a respective locating projection 405, such as when the box 400 is palletised with other similar boxes.

[0161] The end blank 200, as shown in Figure 2C may be folded along the hinged connections 225 during the forming process of box 400. When the blank 200 is folded, the first panel 205 and the second panel 210 are brought into close proximity with each other, or in some embodiments, abut against each other. When the end blank 200 is folded, the locating projection receiving slots 230 of the first panel 205 align with the locating projection receiving slots 230 of the second panel 210.

[0162] The end blank 300, as shown in Figure 3A, is configured to engage with the body blank 100 to at least partially form the box 400. The end blank 300 may include the first panel 305. In some embodiments, the end blank 300 may include the second panel 310. In some embodiments, the end blank 300 may include the third panel 315. The first panel 305 may be hingedly connected to the second panel 310 by hinged connections 330. The hinged connections 330, as shown in Figure 3A, may define one or more slots and / or apertures in the end blank 300. In some embodiments, the hinged connections 330 may be formed by cutting one or more aperture or slots into (or out of) the end blank 300. According to some embodiments, the first panel 305 may be hingedly connected to the third panel 315 by hinged connection 345.

[0163] The end blank 300 may include locating projection receiving slots 350, 355. The locating projection receiving slots 350 may be located on an edge of the second panel 310 that is distal to or opposing the edge that includes the hinged connections 330. The locating projection receiving slots 355 may be located on the same edge of the first panel 305 as the hinged connection 345 between the first panel 305 and the third panel 315.

[0164] The end blank 300, as shown in Figure 3C may be folded during the forming process of the box 400. According to some embodiments, the end blank 300 may be foldedalong the hinged connections 330 and 345 allowing the second panel 310 and the third panel 315 to be brought into close proximity or to abut against opposing faces of the first panel 305. The locating projection receiving slots 350 and 355 may be brought into alignment when the end blank 300 is folded along the hinged connections 330, 345. In some embodiments, the third panel 315 may not include corresponding locating projection receiving slots, such that the locating projection receiving slots 350, 355 are caused to be blocked by the third panel 315, thereby helping to seal the box 400.

[0165] The formed box 400, as shown in Figures 4A to 4F, may include box body 430 and end panels 410, 420. In some embodiments box body 430 includes or is formed from body blank 100. In some embodiments, end blank 410 is a first end blank. In some embodiments, end blank 420 is a second end blank. In some embodiments, end blank 410 is a second end blank. In some embodiments, end blank 420 is a first end blank.

[0166] In some embodiments, end blank 410 may include end blank 200. In some embodiments end blank 410 may include end blank 300. In some embodiments, end blank 420 may include end blank 200. In some embodiments end blank 420 may include end blank 300.

[0167] The process by which the formed box 400 is erected is described in greater detail below at Figures 19A to 19D.

[0168] When formed, the locating projections 405 (formed from the hinged panels 225 of end blank 200 or the hinged panels 330 of end blank 300), extend through the closed lid panels 115, 117. The slot projections 150, 152 may be configured to engage with the locating projections 405 so as to secure the lid panels 115, 117 in a closed position.

[0169] The locating projection receiving slots 230 are configured to receive the locating projections 405 of another box 400 when the boxes are stacked or palletised so as to both seal the inside of the box to prevent or slow the spoilage of any goods stored therein, and / or to properly align the stacked or palletised boxes.

[0170] The slot projections 150, 152 (that form or define slot 155), as shown in Figure 4C, may abut against locating projection 405 so as to secure the lid panels 115, 117 when the lid panels 115, 117 are in a closed position. As also shown in Figure 4C, the lidpanels 115, 117 extend to overlap or cover the edge of the end blanks 410 so as to seal the box 400. Additionally or alternatively, the lid panels 115, 117 extend to overlap or cover the edge of the end blanks 410 so as to protect the edge of the blanks 410 from damage (e.g. physical damage and / or moisture ingress), that may affect the structural integrity of the box 400 as a whole.

[0171] The locating projection receiving slots 135 and the locating projection receiving slots 230, 350 and / or 355, as shown in Figure 4F, align such that they may receive respective locating projections 405 when two or more boxes are stacked or palletised.

[0172] Figures 5A to 6B depict blanks that when appropriately erected and / or formed make the box 700 as depicted in Figures 7A to 7F.

[0173] As shown in Figure 5A, the body blank 500 may include base panel 505, first wall panel 510, second wall panel 512, first lid panel 515 and second lid panel 517. In some embodiments the body blank 500 may not include second lid panel 517 and may only include first lid panel 515. The body blank 500 may be folded or otherwise erected to form at least part of the box 400, as depicted in Figures 4A to 4F. In some embodiments the body blank 500 is folded to create the box body 720.

[0174] The base panel 505 is hingedly connected to the first wall panel 510 and the second wall panel 512. The first wall panel 510 is hingedly connected to both the base panel 505 and the first lid panel 515. The second wall panel 512 is hingedly connected to the base panel 505. In some embodiments wherein the body blank 500 includes the second lid panel 517, the second wall panel 512 is hingedly connected to the second lid panel 117.

[0175] The base panel 505, as shown in Figure 5B includes base securing flap 520 and locating projection receiving slots 535. The base securing flap 520 is hingedly attached to the base panel 505. The base securing flap 520 may be foldable to lie at an approximate right angle (90 degrees) to the base panel 505. When folded into the substantially right-angle position, the base securing flap 520 may be secured to an end panel 710 as part of the box 700 forming process.

[0176] The base securing flaps 520 may include one or more angled edges that are transverse to the plane defined by the hinged connection between the base securingflap 520 and the plane defined by the base panel 505 and an unconnected edge (free edge) of the base securing flap 520. When the base securing flap 520 is folded to sit at a substantially right-angle to the base panel 505, the one or more angled edges may be transverse to the plane defined by the base panel 505 and the plane defined by the unconnected edge (free edge) of the base securing flap 520.

[0177] The locating projection receiving slots 135 may each be configured to receive a respective locating projection 620, such as when the formed box 700 is placed on top of another similar box (e.g. another formed box 700).

[0178] The first wall panel 510 and the second wall panel 512 include wall securing flaps 525. According to some embodiments, the wall securing flaps 525 are hingedly attached to opposing ends of the wall panels 510, 512. The wall securing flaps 525 are hingedly connected such that they may be folded in to place during the forming of the box 700. In some embodiments, the wall securing flaps 525 are folded to form a substantially right angle with the respective wall panels 510, 512 during erection of the box 500. The wall securing flaps 525 may be configured to be affixed to an end panel 710 during assembly of the box 700.

[0179] The first lid panel 515, and in some embodiments the second lid panel 517 includes at least one first slot projection 550. In some embodiments the first lid panel 515 and / or the second lid panel 517 include a second slot projection 552. In some embodiments, the first slot projection 550 and the second slot projection 552 define a slot 555 therebetween. In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figure 5B, the slot 555 may be an open slot. In some embodiments, the slot 555 may be a closed slot (not shown). In some embodiments wherein the slot 555 is open, it may facilitate extraction / removal of waste material created when the slot 555 is cut from the blank 500. This can reduce unwanted waste, such as when the box 700 is delivered to a customer, or waste that may cause malfunctions if caught in forming machinery.

[0180] According to some embodiments the blank 500 may include at least one sealing corner 560, configured to correspond with an internal corner 730 of the formed box 700. The sealing corner 560 may be sized such as to be substantially the same dimensions as the corresponding internal corner 730 formed by the formed box 700. In some embodiments the sealing corner 560 may be slightly oversized when compared to the dimensions of the corresponding internal corner 730 of the formedbox 700 so as to provide a tight seal with the sealing corner 560 when the lid panel 515, 517 are in a closed position, so as to effectively seal the box 700 to stop internal moisture from escaping. The internal corner 730 of the box 700 may be formed by one or more of the end blank 600, and the body blank 500.

[0181] In some embodiments the sealing corner 560 may be proximal to the hinged connection between the lid panel 515, 517. In some embodiments the sealing corner 560 is proximal to the first slot projection 550.

[0182] According to some embodiments, the sealing corner 560 may include one or more slits such that the sealing corner 560 is flexible and / or deformable to fit within the internal corner 730 of the formed box 700. In some embodiments, the slit 580 may allow for the sealing corner 560 to sit within the internal corner 730 in an interference type fit. The interference type fit may facilitate the secure sealing of the formed box 700.

[0183] The blank 500 may, additionally or alternatively include one or more airflow channels 565. The one or more airflow channels 565 may be formed in or by the first lid panel 515. In some embodiments, the airflow channels 565 may extend across the external surface of the first lid panel 515 from one edge of the first lid panel 515 to the opposing edge of the first lid panel 515. In some embodiments, the one or more airflow channels 565 may extend partially across the surface of the first lid panel 515. The one or more airflow channels 565 may be formed in or by the second lid panel 517. The one or more airflow channels 565 may extend across the external surface of the second lid panel 517 from one edge of the second lid panel 517 to the opposing edge of the second lid panel 517. In some embodiments, the one or more airflow channels 565 may extend partially across the surface of the second lid panel 517. The one or more airflow channels 565 may facilitate the flow of air between the boxes 700 when the boxes are palletised. According to some embodiments, the airflow channels 565, as shown in Figure 18, are channels formed into the surface of the first and / or second lid panels 515, 517. The formed boxes 400, 2300 may additionally include airflow channels similar to the airflow channels 565 described above.

[0184] According to some embodiments, the first lid panel 515 may include a lid locating feature 570 and the second lid panel 517 may include a corresponding lid locating feature 575. The lid locating features may be corresponding such that when the lid panels 515, 517 are in a closed position, the lid locating features 560, 562 align witheach other to aid in sealing the box 700 and / or lid closed, thereby keeping moisture within the box 700.

[0185] The end blank 600, as shown in Figures 6A and 6B, is configured to engage with the body blank 500 to at least partially form the box 700. The end blank 600 may include main panel 605. The end blank 600 may additionally include one or more end securing flaps 610. The one or more securing flaps 610 may be hingedly attached to the main panel 605. The end securing flaps 610 may be configured to be affixed to the body blank during assembly of the box 700. The end blank 600 may additionally or alternatively include locating projections 620. In some embodiments, the end blank 600 may include one or more locating projection receiving slots 615 configured to receive respective locating projections 620 of another box when the box 700 is palletised with one or more other similar boxes.

[0186] The formed box 700, as shown in Figure 7A to 7F, may include the end panel 710 and the box body 720. The end panel 710 may be formed from the end blank 600. The box body 720 may be formed from the body blank 500. In some embodiments, the end panel 710 may be formed from end blank 200 and / or end blank 300.

[0187] When formed, the locating projections 620 extend through the closed lid panels 515, 517. The slot projections 150, 152 may be configured to engage with the locating projections 620 so as to secure the lid panels 115, 117 in a closed potion.

[0188] The locating projection receiving slots 615 are configured to receive the locating projections 620 of another box when the boxes are stacked or palletised so as to both seal the inside of the box 700 to prevent spoilage of any goods stored therein, and / or to properly align the stacked or palletised boxes 700.

[0189] The slot projections 550, 552 (that form or define slot 555), as shown in Figure 7C, may abut against locating projection 620 so as to secure the lid panels 515, 517 when the lid panels 115, 117 are in a closed position. As also shown in Figure 7C, the lid panels 515, 517 extend to overlap or cover the edge of the end blanks 710 so as to seal the box 700. Additionally or alternatively, the lid panels 515, 517 extend to overlap or cover the edge of the end panel 710 so as to protect the edge of the end blank 710 from damage (e.g. physical damage and / or moisture ingress), that may affect the structural integrity of the box 700 as a whole.The locating projection receiving slots 535 and the locating projection receiving slots 615, as shown in Figure 7F, align such that they may receive respective locating projections 620 when two or more boxes are stacked or palletised.

[0190] The box 400, as shown in Figure 8A, includes one or more airflow channels. Or more specifically, the end blank 410 (or otherwise an end of the box 400) may include one or more airflow channels formed, made or otherwise defined by the end blank 410 and the base blank 100. The base panel securing tab 120 may include edge 805. In some embodiments, edge 805 may form an angle with the base panel 105 substantially between 0 and 90 degrees. In some embodiments, edge 805 may form an angle with the base panel 105 of substantially 45 degrees.

[0191] Additionally or alternatively, the wall securing flap 130 may include edge 810. In some embodiments, edge 810 may form an angle with the respective first or second wall panel 110, 112 substantially between 0 and 90 degrees. In some embodiments, edge 810 may form an angle with the respective first or second wall panel 110, 112 of substantially 45 degrees.

[0192] When the box 400 is formed (when the base securing flap 120 and at least one of the wall securing flaps 130 are secured to the end blank 410), the edges 805, 810 form airflow channel 815, as shown in Figures 8A and 8B. The airflow channel 815 may enable or facilitate the flow of air (as shown by the dashed line A) around the box 400 to facilitate rapid and thorough cooling of the box 400 and the contents therein.

[0193] Additionally or alternatively, the wall securing tab 130 may include edge 820. At least one dimension of the wall securing tab 130 may be smaller than at least one dimension of the end blank 410 such that when the wall securing flap 130 is secured to the end blank 410, the wall securing flap 130 may only partially cover the edge of the wall blank 410 the wall securing flap 130 is affixed to. Accordingly, the edge 820 and slot projection 150 may define airflow channel 825, as shown in Figures 8B and 9. The airflow channel 825 may enable or facilitate the flow of air (as shown by the dashed line B) around the box 400 to facilitate rapid and thorough cooling of the box 400 and the contents therein. In some embodiments, airflow channels 815, 820 may facilitate horizontal airflow flow through a layer of boxes 400 when they are palletised.When the end of the box 400 (e.g. the end defined by the end blank 410) is brought into close proximity with another corresponding end of another box 400, as shown in Figure 10, the airflow channels 825 of each respective box 400 may form air flow channel 1005. The airflow channel 1005 may facilitate the circulation of air around and specifically between the boxes to promote cooling of the boxes and thereby the goods stored therein.

[0194] Additionally or alternatively, when the end of the box 400 (e.g. the end defined by the end blank 410) is brought into close proximity with another, corresponding end of another box 400, the airflow channels 815 of each respective box 400 may form air flow channel 1010. The airflow channel 1010 may facilitate the circulation of air around and specifically between the boxes to promote cooling of the boxes and thereby the goods stored therein.

[0195] When the wall of the box 400 (e.g. the wall defined by first or second wall panel 110, 112) is brought into close proximity or into contact with a corresponding wall of another box 400, as shown in Figure 11, the airflow panels 140 of each box 400 defines airflow channel 1105. The airflow channel 1105 creates a space between a surface the boxes may be resting on (e.g. a floor, or another box) that runs substantially along the length of the boxes 400.

[0196] Additionally or alternatively, when the wall of the box 400 (e.g. the wall defined by first or second wall panel 110, 112) is brought into close proximity or into contact with a corresponding wall of another box 400, the airflow panels 145 of each box creates airflow channel 1110.

[0197] The airflow channels 1105, 1110 facilitate airflow around and between the boxes such that when the boxes are palletised air is permitted to flow through a stack of boxes, such that the air may cool at least some of the boxes directly.

[0198] As also shown in Figure 11, when the wall of the box 400 (e.g. the wall defined by first or second wall panel 110, 112) is brought into close proximity or into contact with a corresponding wall of another box 400, the airflow channels 815 form airflow channel 1115 that enables the flow of air between the ends of adjacent boxes when they are palletised.Additionally or alternatively, when the wall of the box 400 (e.g. the wall defined by first or second wall panel 110, 112) is brought into close proximity or into contact with a corresponding wall of another box 400, the airflow channels 825 of each box 400 form airflow channel 1120 that enables the flow of air between the ends of adjacent boxes when they are palletised.

[0199] When the end of the box 400 (e.g. the end defined by the end blank 410) is brought into close proximity with another, corresponding end of another box 400, as shown in Figure 12, the first slot projection 150 and the second slot projection 152 of each respective box 400 forms, creates or defines airflow channel 1205. Airflow channel 1205 may facilitate airflow between the boxes 400 when the boxes 400 are palletised. In some embodiments, the airflow channel 1205 may facilitate vertical airflow through a stack of boxes.

[0200] When the end of the box 400 (e.g. the end defined by the end panel 410) is brought into close proximity with the wall of the box 400 (e.g. the wall defined by first or second wall panel 110, 112), as shown in Figure 13, the airflow channel 815 of each respective box may create airflow channel 1305. Additionally or alternatively, when the end of the box 400 (e.g. the end defined by the end panels 410, 420) is brought into close proximity with the wall of the box 400 (e.g. the wall defined by first or second wall panel 110, 112), the airflow channel 825 of each box 400 may create the airflow channel 1310. The airflow channels 1305 and 1310 may facilitate airflow around the boxes aiding in the cooling process.

[0201] When at least four boxes 400 are palletised, such as when the wall of a first box 400 (e.g. the wall defined by first or second wall panel 110, 112) is placed in close proximity or contact with the corresponding wall of a second box, and when the first and second box are stacked on top of a third and fourth box arranged in the same manner as the first and second box, as shown in Figure 14, the airflow panels 140 of the first and second boxes and the airflow panels 145 of the third and forth boxes form airflow channel 1405. In other words, the airflow channel 1105, as formed by the first and second boxes, and the air flow channel 1110 as formed by the third and fourth boxes form airflow channel 1405.

[0202] When at least four boxes are palletised, such as when the end of a first box 400 (e.g. the end defined by the end panels 410, 420) is brought into close proximity or contactwith the wall of the box 400 (e.g. the wall defined by first or second wall panel 110, 112), and the first and second boxes are stacked on top of a third and fourth box arranged in the same manner as the first and second box, as shown in figure 15, the airflow channel 1305 formed by the first and second boxes and the airflow channel 1310 formed by the third and forth boxes may form airflow channel 1505.

[0203] In some embodiments, any one or more of the airflow channels 815, 825, 1005, 1010, 1105, 1110, 1115, 1120, 1205, 1305, 1310, 1405 and / or 1505 may intersect with one or more other airflow channels 815, 825, 1005, 1010, 1105, 1110, 1115, 1120, 1205, 1305, 1310, 1405 and / or 1505 to create a network of airflow channels between the boxes when they are palletised to improve the cooling of the boxes.

[0204] It would also be understood by the person skilled in the art that a plurality of boxes 400 may be arranged in a number of different configurations to create a number of different airflow channels that all function to facilitate effective airflow around the boxes when they are palletised.

[0205] In some embodiments, the first and or second lid panels 115, 117 may extend to overlap with or otherwise cover the edge 1605 of the end panels 410, 420, as shown in Figure 16.

[0206] As shown in Figure 17, when the first and second lid panels 115, 117 are in a closed position the lid locating feature 160 may engage with the corresponding lid locating feature 162 to close and seal the box. As is also shown in Figure 17, the lid locating features 160, 162 may create an offset of the lid join 1710 where the first lid panel 115 abuts the second lid panel 117. This offset may then create an inter-lid offset 1705 when a box 400 is placed end to end with another box 400, as marked by the circle A in Figure 17. The inter-lid offset 1705 may break-up unintentional inter-box airflow paths (e.g. caused by the lid join 1710 of one box aligning or interfering with the lid join of 1710 of the other box), that may cause the boxes to lose internal moisture undesirably.

[0207] According to some embodiments, the box 700 may include the same or at least some of the same features and airflow channels as described above.

[0208] In some embodiments, thew box 700 may include one or more of airflow channels815, 825, 1005, and / or 1205 or any other airflow channel formed or defined by the box 700 and / or the blanks that are erected to form the box 700.

[0209] According to some embodiments, the box 2300 may include the same or at least some of the same features and airflow channels as described above.

[0210] In some embodiments, the box 2300, as described in greater detail below, may include one or more of the airflow channels 815, 825, 1005, 1110, 1205, 1310, 1405, and / or 1505 or any other airflow channel formed or defined by the box 2300 and / or the blanks that are erected to form the box 2300.

[0211] The body blank 100 and the end panels 410, 420 (e.g. the end blank 200 and / or the end blank 300) may be folded and combined to form the box 400 in a forming or erecting process, as depicted by Figures 19A to 19D.

[0212] At step 1900 of the forming process, as shown in Figure 19A, the end panels 410 are folded along their hinged connections to form the end of ends of the box 400. For example, if the box 400 includes at least one end blank 200, the end blank 200 is folded along the hinged connection(s) 225. In some embodiments wherein the box 400 includes at least one end blank 300, the end blank 300 may be folded along the hinged connections 330 and the hinged connection 345.

[0213] At step 1910 of the forming process, as shown in Figure 19B, the body blank 100 is folded along the respective hinged connections between the base panel 105, and the respective first and second wall panels 110, 112. In some embodiments, the body blank 100 is folded along the hinged connections between the base panel 105 and the airflow panels 140, and also folded along the hinged connections between the respective airflow panels 140 and the respective first and second wall panels 110, 112. In this embodiments, the airflow panels 140 create a transitional zone between the base panel and the respective first and second wall panels 110, 112. In some embodiments, the airflow panels 140 create chamfers in the box 400.

[0214] At step 1910, the planes defined by the first and second wall panels 110, 112 are arranged to be substantially orthogonal to the plane defined by the base panel 105. In some embodiments, the distance between the opposing walls of the body blank when the wall panels 110, 112 are substantially orthogonal to the base panel corresponds toat least one dimension of the end panel 410 or end panel 420, such that at least two opposing ends of the end panel 410, 420 contact respective wall panels 110, 112 when the end panel is seated within the box body 420.

[0215] At step 1920, as shown in Figure 19C, the base securing flap 120 is bent or folded along its hinged connection to the base panel. In some embodiments, the base securing flap 120 is bent to be substantially orthogonal to the plane defined by the base panel 105. Further and also at step 1920 the respective wall securing flaps 125 of the first and second wall panels 110, 112 are bent or folded along their hinged connection to their respective wall panels. In some embodiments the wall securing flaps 125 are bent to be substantially orthogonal to the plane defined by the wall panels 110, 112. By positioning the securing flaps 120, 125 in this way the securing flaps are able to contact and be affixed or otherwise attached to the end panel 410 at step 1930. In some embodiments, once step 1920 is completed the body blank may be referred to as the box body 420.

[0216] At step 1930 of the forming process the end panels 410, 420 are inserted within the folded body blank 100, and the base securing flaps 120 and the wall securing flaps 125 are affixed or otherwise attached to the respective end panels 410, 420. The securing flaps 120,125 are attached to the end panel 410, 420 using any suitable material, substance or method. For example, the securing flaps 120,125 are attached to the end panel 410 using any suitable adhesive such as [examples]. In some examples the securing flaps 120,125 are attached to the end panel 410 using stables, nails, screws, bolts or any other suitable means of affixing.

[0217] The blanks 100, 200, 300, 500, 600 and / or 2200 and / or the formed box 400, 700, 2300 may, in some embodiments include a barrier lining or barrier coating, as depicted in Figures 20A and 20B. The barrier 2020 may be applied to any one or more panels 2010 or blanks of the box 400, 700. The barrier 2020 may include an aqueous dispersion coating or a laminated polymer film. In some embodiments, the barrier 2020 may include an aqueous polymer dispersion coating. The polymers used in the coating or film 2020 may include polyethylene (PE) derivatives but may also include any other suitable polymers (e.g. polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) or any other suitable biopolymers). The barrier's 2020 function is to provide a water vapour barrier. In some embodiments, the barrier 2020 may provide a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) of less than 100 g / m2 / day (at 38°C and 50%RH). In some embodiments, thebarrier 2020 may provide an MVTR of less than 50 g / m2 / day (at 38°C and 50%RH). In some embodiments, the barrier 2020 may provide an MVTR of less than 100 g / m2 / day (at 38°C and 50%RH).

[0218] In some embodiments, the lining 2020 may include the barrier layer 2030 and one or more additional layers, such as additional layer 2040 or additional layer 2050. In some embodiments the barrier layer 2030 may be sandwiched between the additional layers 2040, 2050. The barrier 2020 may be affixed or otherwise applied to an inside face of the panel 2010, as shown in Figure 20B.

[0219] According to some embodiments, the lining 2020 may be applied to or otherwise included in an outside of the box 400, 700 and / or an outside of the blanks 100, 200, 300, 500, 600 and 2200.

[0220] According to another or an alternative embodiment, any layer / surface (e.g. paper layer(s) or cardboard layer(s)) of the box 400, 700 and 2300 and / or blanks 100, 200, 300, 500, 600 and 2200 may include a barrier 2020.

[0221] The body blank 500 and two end blanks 600 may be folded and combined to form the box 700 in a forming or erecting process, as depicted by Figures 21A to 21D.

[0222] At step 2100 of the forming process, as shown in Figure 21A, the end securing flaps 610 are folded to form substantially right angles with the main body 605 of the end blank 600.

[0223] At step 2010 of the forming process, as shown in Figure 21B, the body blank 500 is folded along the respective hinged connections between the base panel 505, and the respective first and second wall panels 510, 512. At step 2110, the planes defined by the first and second wall panels 510, 512 are arranged to be substantially orthogonal to the plane defined by the base panel 505. In some embodiments, the distance between the opposing walls of the body blank 505 when the wall panels 510, 512 are substantially orthogonal to the base panel corresponds to at least one dimension of the end panel 710, such that at least two opposing ends of the end panel 710 contact respective wall panels 510, 512 when the end panel is seated within the box body 520.At step 2120, as shown in Figure 21C, the base securing flap 520 is bent or folded along its hinged connection to the base panel 505. In some embodiments, the base securing flap 520 is bent so as to be substantially orthogonal to the plane defined by the base panel 505. Further and also at step 2120 the respective wall securing flaps 525 of the first and second wall panels 510, 512 are bent or folded along their hinged connection to their respective wall panels. In some embodiments the wall securing flaps 525 are bent to be substantially orthogonal to the plane defined by the wall panels 510, 512. By positioning the securing flaps 520,525 in this way the securing flaps are able to contact and be affixed or otherwise attached to the end panel 710 at step 2130. In some embodiments, once step 2120 is completed the body blank 500 may be referred to as the box body 720.

[0224] At step 2130 of the forming process, the end panels 710 are inserted within the folded body blank 500 (box body 710), and the base securing flaps 520 and the wall securing flaps 525 are affixed or otherwise attached to the respective end panels 710. The securing flaps 520,525 are attached to the end panel 710 using any suitable material, substance or method. For example, the securing flaps 520, 525 are attached to the end panel 710 using any suitable adhesive. In some examples the securing flaps 520, 525 are attached to the end panel 710 using staples, nails, screws, bolts or any other suitable means of affixing.

[0225] Also at step 2130, the end panels 610 are affixed or otherwise attached to the respective wall panels 510, 512.

[0226] The end securing flaps 610 are attached to the wall panels 510, 512 using any suitable material, substance or method. For example, the end securing flaps 610 are attached to the wall panels 710 using any suitable adhesive. In some examples the end securing flaps 610 are attached to the wall panels 510, 512 using staples, nails, screws, bolts or any other suitable means of affixing.

[0227] As shown in Figure 22A, the body blank 2200 may include base panel 2205, first wall panel 2210, second wall panel 2212, first lid panel 2215 and second lid panel 2217. In some embodiments the body blank 2200 may not include second lid panel 2217 and may only include first lid panel 2215. The body blank 2200 may be folded or otherwise erected to form at least part of the box 2300, as depicted in Figures 23A to 23F.The base panel 2205 is hingedly connected to the first wall panel 2210 and the second wall panel 2212. The first wall panel 2210 is hingedly connected to both the base panel 2205 and the first lid panel 2215. The second wall panel 2212 is hingedly connected to the base panel 2205. In some embodiments wherein the body blank 2200 includes the second lid panel 2217, the second wall panel 2212 is hingedly connected to the second lid panel 2217.

[0228] The base panel 2205, as shown in Figure 22B includes base securing flap 2220 and locating projection receiving slots 2235. The base securing flap 2220 is hingedly attached to the base panel 2205. The base securing flap 2220 may be foldable to be at an approximate right angle (90 degrees) to the base panel 2205. When folded into the substantially right-angle position, the base securing flap 2220 may be secured to an end blank 600 as part of the box forming process.

[0229] The base securing flaps 2220 may include one or more angled edges that are transverse to the hinged connection between the base securing flap 2220 and the base panel 2205 and an unconnected edge (free edge) of the base securing flap 2220. When the base securing flap 2220 is folded to be at a substantially right angle to the base panel 2205, the one or more angled edges of the base securing flap 2220 may be transverse to the plane defined by the base panel 2205 and the plane defined by the unconnected edge (free edge) of the base securing flap 2220.

[0230] The locating projection receiving slots 2235 may each be configured to receive a respective locating projection 620, such as when the formed box 2300 is placed on top of another similar box (e.g. another formed box 2300).

[0231] Disposed between the first wall panel 2210 and the first lid panel 2215 is lid airflow panel 2245. In some embodiments wherein the body blank 2200 includes the second lid panel 2217, another lid airflow panel 2245 is disposed between the second wall panel 2212 and the second lid panel 2217.

[0232] The lid airflow panels 2245 are hingedly connected to the first wall panel 2210 and the lid panel 2215. In some embodiments, the airflow panels 2245 are hingedly connected to the second wall panel 2212 and the second lid panel 2217. When the body blank 2200 is folded to be incorporated into the formed box 2300, the lid airflow panels 2245 define transitional zones between the base panel 2205 and the respective firstwall panel 2210 and / or the second wall panel 2212. In other words, when the body blank 2200 is folded to be incorporated into the formed box 2300, the lid airflow panels 2245 define chamfers at the edges of the box 2300 proximal to the lid panels 2215, 2217. The chamfers effectively remove material from the edges of the box 2300 such that space can be created between the box 2300 and other structures, such as when the box 2300 is palletised with other boxes 2300, or other types of boxes, air can flow more easily between said palletised boxes.

[0233] The first wall panel 2210 and the second wall panel 2212 include wall securing flaps 2225, According to some embodiments, the wall securing flaps 2225 are hingedly attached to opposing ends of the wall panels 2210, 2212. The wall securing flaps 2225 are hingedly connected such that they may be folded in to place during the forming of the box 2300. In some embodiments, the wall securing flaps 2225 are folded to form a substantially right angle with the respective wall panels 2210, 2212 during erection of the box 2300. The wall securing flaps 2225 may be configured to be affixed to an end panel 2310 (e.g. end blank 600) during assembly of the box 2300.

[0234] The first lid panel 2215, and in some embodiments the second lid panel 2217 includes at least one first slot projection 2250. In some embodiments the first lid panel 2215 and / or the second lid panel 2217 include a second slot projection 2252. In some embodiments, the first slot projection 2250 and the second slot projection 2252 define a slot 2255 therebetween. In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figure 22B, the slot 2255 may be an open slot. In some embodiments, the slot 2255 may be a closed slot (not shown). In some embodiments wherein the slot 2255 is open, it may facilitate extraction / removal of waste material created when the slot 2255 is cut or punched from the blank 2200. This can reduce unwanted waste, such as when the box 2300 is delivered to a customer, or waste that may cause malfunctions if caught in forming machinery.

[0235] According to some embodiments the body blank 2200 may include at least one sealing corner 2260, configured to correspond with an internal corner 2330 of the formed box 2300. The sealing corner 2260 may be sized such as to be substantially the same dimensions as the corresponding internal corner 2330 formed by the formed box 2300. In some embodiments the sealing corner 2260 may be slightly oversized when compared to the dimensions of the corresponding internal corner 2330 of the formed box 2300 so as to provide a tight seal with the sealing corner 2260 when the lid panel2215, 2217 are in a closed position, so as to effectively seal the box 2300 to stop internal moisture from escaping. The internal corner 2330 of the box 2300 may be formed by one or more of the end blank 600, and the body blank 2200.

[0236] In some embodiments the sealing corner 2260 may be proximal to the hinged connection between the lid panel 2215, 2217. In some embodiments the sealing corner 2260 is proximal to the first slot projection 2250.

[0237] According to some embodiments, the sealing corner 2260 may include one or more slits such that the sealing corner 2260 is flexible and / or deformable to fit within the internal corner 2330 of the formed box 2300. In some embodiments, the slit 2280 may allow for the sealing corner 2260 to sit within the internal corner 2330 in an interference type fit. The interference type fit may facilitate the secure sealing of the formed box 2300.

[0238] The blank 2200 may, additionally or alternatively include one or more airflow channels 2265. The one or more airflow channels 2265 may be formed in or by the first lid panel 2215. In some embodiments, the airflow channels 2265 may extend across the external surface of the first lid panel 2215 from one edge of the first lid panel 2215 to the opposing edge of the first lid panel 2215. In some embodiments, the one or more airflow channels 2265 may extend partially across the surface of the first lid panel 2215. The one or more airflow channels 2265 may be formed in or by the second lid panel 2217. The one or more airflow channels 2265 may extend across the external surface of the second lid panel 2217 from one edge of the second lid panel 2217 to the opposing edge of the second lid panel 2217. In some embodiments, the one or more airflow channels 2265 may extend partially across the surface of the second lid panel 2217. The one or more airflow channels 225 may facilitate the flow of air between the boxes 2300 when the boxes are palletised. According to some embodiments, the airflow channels 2265, as shown in Figure 23A, are channels formed into the surface of the first and / or second lid panels 2215, 2217.

[0239] According to some embodiments, the first lid panel 2215 may include a lid locating feature 2270 and the second lid panel 2217 may include a corresponding lid locating feature 2275. The lid locating features may be corresponding such that when the lid panels 2215, 2217 are in a closed position, the lid locating features 2260, 2262 align with each other to aid in sealing the box 2300 and / or lid closed, thereby keepingmoisture within the box 2300.

[0240] The formed box 2300, as shown in Figures 23A to 23F, may include the end panel 2310 and the box body 2320. The end panel 2310 may be formed from the end blank 600. The box body 2320 may be formed from the body blank 2200.

[0241] When formed, the locating projections 620 extend through a closed lid panels 2215, 2217. The slot projections 2250, 2252 may be configured to engage with the locating projections 620 so as to secure the lid panels 2215, 2217 in a closed potion.

[0242] As can be seen in Figure 23B, the locating projection receiving slots 615 are externally covered by base securing flap 2220. Additionally, the locating projection receiving slots 615 are open from the inside of the box 2300. In this way, the locating projections 2220 of another box 2300 may be inserted into the locating projection receiving slots 2215 when the boxes are stacked or palletised so as to both seal the inside of the box 2300 to prevent spoilage of any goods stored therein, and / or to properly align the stacked or palletised boxes 2300.

[0243] The slot projections 2250, 2252 (that form or define slot 2255), as shown in Figure 23C, may abut against locating projection 620 so as to secure the lid panels 2215, 2217 when the lid panels 2215, 2217 are in a closed position. As also shown in Figure 23C, the lid panels 2215, 2217 extend to overlap or cover the edge of the end blanks 2310 so as to seal the box 2300. Additionally or alternatively, the lid panels 2215, 2217 extend to overlap or cover the edge of the end panel 2310 so as to protect the edge of the end blank 2310 from damage (e.g. physical damage and / or moisture ingress), that may affect the structural integrity of the box 2300 as a whole.

[0244] The locating projection receiving slots 2235 and the locating projection receiving slots 615, as shown in Figure 23F, align such that they may receive respective locating projections 620 when two or more boxes are stacked or palletised.

[0245] The body blank 2200 and two end blanks 600 may be folded and combined to form the box 2300 in a forming or erecting process, as depicted by Figures 23A to 23D.

[0246] At step 2400 of the forming process, as shown in Figure 23A, the end securing flaps 610 are folded to form substantially right angles with the main body 605 of the endblank 600.

[0247] At step 2410 of the forming process, as shown in Figure 23B, the body blank 2200 is folded along the respective hinged connections between the base panel 2205, and the respective first and second wall panels 2210, 2212. Additionally at step 2410, the planes defined by the first and second wall panels 2210, 2212 are arranged to be substantially orthogonal to the plane defined by the base panel 2205. In some embodiments, the distance between the opposing walls of the body blank 2205 when the wall panels 2210, 2212 are substantially orthogonal to the base panel 2205 corresponds to at least one dimension of the end panel 2310, such that at least two opposing ends of the end panel 2310 contact respective wall panels 2210, 2212 when the end panel is seated within the box body 2220.

[0248] At step 2420, as shown in Figure 23C, the base securing flap 2220 is bent or folded along its hinged connection to the base panel 2205. In some embodiments, the base securing flap 2220 is bent so as to be substantially orthogonal to the plane defined by the base panel 2205. Further, and also at step 2420 the respective wall securing flaps 2225 of the first and second wall panels 2210, 2212 are bent or folded along their hinged connection to their respective wall panels. In some embodiments the wall securing flaps 2225 are bent to be substantially orthogonal to the plane defined by the wall panels 2210, 2212. By positioning the securing flaps 2220, 2225 in this way the securing flaps are able to contact and be affixed or otherwise attached to the end panel 2310 at step 2430. In some embodiments, once step 2420 is completed the body blank 2200 may be referred to as the box body 2320.

[0249] At step 2430 of the forming process, the end panels 2310 are inserted within the folded body blank 2200 (box body 2310), and the base securing flaps 2220 and the wall securing flaps 2225 are affixed or otherwise attached to the respective end panels 2310. The securing flaps 2220, 2225 are attached to the end panel 2310 using any suitable material, substance or method. For example, the securing flaps 2220, 2225 are attached to the end panel 2310 using any suitable adhesive. In some examples the securing flaps 2220, 2225 are attached to the end panel 2310 using staples, nails, screws, bolts or any other suitable means of affixing.

[0250] Also at step 2430, the end panels 2310 are affixed or otherwise attached to the respective wall panels 2210, 2212.The end securing flaps 610 are attached to the wall panels 510, 512 using any suitable material, substance or method. For example, the end securing flaps 610 are attached to the wall panels 710 using any suitable adhesive. In some examples the end securing flaps 610 are attached to the wall panels 510, 512 using staples, nails, screws, bolts or any other suitable means of affixing.

[0251] According to some embodiments, and as discussed above, the boxes 400, 700 and / or 2300 may include a single lid panel. In some embodiments, the single lid panel may be hingedly attached or connected to the first wall panel 110, 510 and / or 2210. Alternatively, the single lid panel may be hingedly attached or connected to the second wall panel 112, 512 and / or 2212.

[0252] In some embodiments, the single lid panel may comprise one or more of the elements or components of the first lid panels 115, 515 and / or 2215. In some embodiments, the single lid panel may comprise one or more of the elements or components of the second lid panels 117, 517 and / or 2217.

[0253] In some embodiments, the single lid panel may include at least one first slot projection. In some embodiments, the single lid panel may include at least one second slot projection. In some embodiments the at least one first slot projection and the at least one second slot projection may define or otherwise form at least one corresponding slot, as described above. In some embodiments, each respective first slot projection, second slot projection and corresponding slot may be located at a respective corner of the single lid panel.

[0254] Disposed between the first wall panel 110, 510, 2210 (or the second wall panel 112, 512, 2212) and the single lid portion is lid airflow panel.

[0255] In some embodiments, the lid airflow panel is hingedly connected to the first wall panel 110, 510, 2210 and the single lid panel. In some embodiments, the lid airflow panel is hingedly connected to the second wall panel 112, 512, 2212 and the single lid panel.

[0256] When the body blank 100, 500, 2200 is folded to be incorporated into the formed box 400, 700, 2300, the lid airflow panel defines a transitional zone between the wallpanel and the single lid panel. In other words, when the body blank 100, 500, 2200 is folded to be incorporated into the formed box 400, 700, 2300, the lid airflow panel defines a chamfer at the edge of the box 400, 700, 2300. The chamfer effectively removes material from the edge of the box 400, 700, 2300 such that space can be created between the box 400, 500 2300 and other structures, such as when the box 100, 400, 2300 is palletised with other boxes 100, 400, 2300, or other types of boxes, air can flow more easily between said palletised boxes.

[0257] In some embodiments, an edge of the single lid panel that opposes the hinged connection to the lid airflow panel may include an angled lid panel. The angled lid panel may be hingedly connected to the single lid panel.

[0258] The angled lid panel may be configured, when the box 400, 700, 2300 is formed, to be folded to engage with an edge of the first wall panel 110, 510, 2210 or second wall panel 112, 512, 2212 so as to form a transitional zone between the respective wall panel and the single lid panel. This transitional zone may have the sae or similar effect as the lid airflow panel described above.

[0259] The angled lid panel may be configured to abut against the first wall panel 110, 510, 2210 or second wall panel 112, 512, 2212 when in a closed position, so as to provide structural rigidity to the formed box 400, 700, 2300.

[0260] The single lid panel and / or the angled lid panel, according to some embodiments, may include one or more sealing structures. Additionally, the single lid panel and / or the angled lid panel include one or more sealing structures the first wall panel 110, 510, 2210 or the second wall panel 112, 512, 2212 may include one or more corresponding sealing structures, configured to engage with the one or more sealing structures so as to secure the single lid panel when in a closed position.

[0261] According to some embodiments, the single lid panel may include at least one sealing corner such as those described above.

[0262] According to some embodiments, the single lid panel may include one or more airflow channels similar to the airflow channels 565 described above.

[0263] Kit 3000The kit of blanks 3000 shown in Figure 25A can be arranged to form the spoilage retarding box 3001 shown in Figures 25B to 25D.

[0264] The kit 3000 includes the body blank 3002 shown in Figures 26A and 25B having a planar base panel 3004, planar first and second side wall panels 3006, 3008 hingedly coupled to respective opposing sides 3010 of the base panel 3004 by respective first and second base airflow panels 3012, 3014 hingedly coupled therebetween, and planar first and second lid panels 3016, 3018 hingedly coupled to the respective side wall panels 3006, 3008.

[0265] The kit 3000 further includes a first end blank 3020 shown in Figures 27A to 27C and a second end blank 3022 shown in Figures 28A to 28C. The first end blank 3020 includes a planar first end wall panel 3024 having two locating projections 3026, 3028 extending from a common side 3030 of the first end wall panel 3024. The second end blank 3022 includes a planar second end wall panel 3032 having two locating projections 3034, 3036 extending from a common side 3038 of the second end wall panel 3032. The first and second end wall panels 3024, 3032 are coupled together by hinges 3040 located between opposed locating projections 3028, 3036 and 3026, 3034.

[0266] As shown in Figures 29A to 29E, the kit 3000 is formed into a box 3001 when the side wall panels 3006, 3008 are arranged substantially normal to the base panel 3004, the end blanks 3020, 3022 are folded about the hinges 3040 so that the first end wall panels overlie and abut respective second end wall panels, the end blanks 3020, 3022 are arranged to extend normally from other opposed sides of the body blank 3002, and the lid panels 3016, 3018 are closed over the end blanks so that the locating projections extend through slots 3042 formed in respective sections of the lid panels.

[0267] As particularly shown in Figures 25B and 25D, the lid panels 3016, 3018 are at least partially secured in a closed position by frictional engagement between the locating projections and the slots 3042.

[0268] When the box 3001 is formed, the first and second base airflow panels 3012, 3014 are transverse to the respective first and second side wall panels 3006, 3008 so as to facilitate airflow around the box 3001 when the box 3001 is palletised with othersimilar boxes.

[0269] As shown in Figure 25C, each slot 3042 defines a locking tab 3044 arranged for frictional engagement with a locating projection extending therethrough. Tthe locating projections 3026, 3028 of the planar first end panels 3020, 3022 each include apertures 3046 shaped to at least partially receive locking tabs 3044 of slots 3042 of the lid panels 3016, 3018 to secure the box 3001 in a closed condition of use shown in Figure 25B.

[0270] The base airflow panels 3012, 3014 are implemented as chamfered structures that create airflow conduits 3056 when adjacent boxes 3001 are stacked in close proximity.

[0271] The lid panels 3016, 3018 preferably extend over upper end sections of the first and second end blanks 3020, 3022 to thereby inhibit ingress of moisture and / or contaminants into core sections of the first and second end blanks 3020, 3022.

[0272] In an alternative embodiment each slot 3042 is defined between a first slot-defining edge 3048 and a second slot-defining edge 3050 of an outer edge 3051 of a respective one of the lid panels 3016, 3018. In this embodiment, only the first slotdefining edges 3048 extend over the upper sections of the end blanks 3020, 3022. In this embodiment, ventilation apertures 3049 are formed between the second slotdefining edges 3050 and the upper sections of end blanks 3020, 3022. The ventilation apertures 3049 promoting inter-box airflow when closed boxes 3001 are palletised with other similar boxes 3001. Advantageously, this airflow assists with cooling of contents of the boxes 3001.

[0273] As shown in Figure 25A, the base panel 3004 includes first and second base securing flaps 3052 hingedly coupled to respective other opposed sides of the base panel 3004. Further, the side wall panels 3006, 3008 respectively include first and second wall securing flaps 3054 hingedly coupled to respective other opposed sides thereof. As shown in Figure 25B, when the box 3001 is formed, the base securing flaps 3052 are arranged to at least partially wrap around and secure respective end wall panels 3032 in fixed positions. When the box 3001 is formed the wall securing flaps 3054 are arranged to at least partially wrap around and secure respective end wall panels 3032 in fixed positions. When so arranged, a first one of the base securing flaps 3052together with a corresponding one of the wall securing flaps 3054 define a first end airflow channel 3056 configured to facilitate airflow around the box 3001 when the box is palletised with other similar boxes. Advantageously, this airflow assists with cooling of contents of the boxes 3001.

[0274] In some embodiments, when the box 3001 is formed, the folding and securing of the base securing flaps 3052 and the wall securing flaps 3054 to retain an end wall panels 3032 in position causes the base airflow panels 3012, 3014 to be arranged transverse to the respective side wall panels 3006, 3008. When so arranged, the base airflow panels 3012, 3014 facilitate airflow around the box 3001 when the box is palletised with other similar boxes. Advantageously, this airflow assists with cooling of contents of the boxes 3001.

[0275] In some embodiments, one or both of the end blanks 3020, 3022 further includes a third end wall panel 3062 hingedly coupled to the first end wall panel 3024 from an opposed side of the first end wall panel 3024. The third end panel 3062 add additional strength to the box 3001 for stackability. The first, second and third end wall panels of each end blank 3020, 3022 are configured to overlie one another when folded in the manner shown in Figure 27C to increase end-wall rigidity and sealing performance.

[0276] The body blank 3002 and the first and second end blanks 3020, 3022 may be folded and combined to form the box 3001 in a forming or erecting process, as depicted by Figures 29A to 29E.

[0277] At step 2900 of the forming process, as shown in Figure 29A, the first and second end blanks 3020, 3022 are folded about respective hinges 3040 such that the first end wall panels 3024 overlie and abut the second end wall panels 3032, as shown in Figure 29B. In some embodiments, this folding provides a doubled wall thickness for increased strength at the ends of the formed box.

[0278] At step 2902 of the forming process, as shown in Figure 29B, the body blank 3002 is unfolded to a substantially planar condition, and the folded end blanks 3020, 3022 are positioned adjacent respective opposed ends of the body blank 3002. The locating projections 3026, 3028, 3034, 3036 of the folded end blanks 3020, 3022 are oriented upwardly to later engage slots 3042 of lid panels 3016, 3018.At step 2904 of the forming process, as shown in Figure 29C, the body blank 3002 is folded along its respective hinged connections between the base panel 3004, side wall panels 3006, 3008, and base airflow panels 3012, 3014 so that the side wall panels 3006, 3008 extend substantially normal to the base panel 3004. At this stage, the folded end blanks 3020, 3022 are inserted into position at opposed ends of the body blank 3002, such that the end blanks extend substantially normal to the plane of the base panel 3004.

[0279] At step 2906 of the forming process, as shown in Figure 29D, the base securing flaps 3052 and wall securing flaps 3054 of the body blank 3002 are folded inwardly and affixed to corresponding regions of the end blanks 3020, 3022. The securing flaps 3052, 3054 are attached by a fastener such as a suitable adhesive or a staples. This affixation secures the end blanks 3020, 3022 in fixed positions in relation to the body blank 3004 and defines airflow channels 3056 between the securing flaps 3052, 3054.

[0280] At step 2908 of the forming process, as shown in Figure 29E, the lid panels 3016, 3018 are closed over the upper sections 3061 of the end blanks 3020, 3022 such that the locating projections 3026, 3028, 3034, 3036 extend through respective slots 3042 defined in the lid panels. In some embodiments, locking tabs 3044 of the slots engage with apertures 3046 of the locating projections, thereby securing the lid panels in a closed position of use. The second slot-defining edges 3050 of the slots may remain spaced from the end blanks to define ventilation apertures promoting inter-box airflow when the box is palletised with other similar boxes.

[0281] Once step 2908 is completed, the body blank 3002 together with the end blanks 3020, 3022 may be referred to as the box 3001.

[0282] Kit 4000

[0283] The Kit 4000 shown in Figures 30A to 30C operates in an analogous manner to the Kit 3000 and like parts are labelled with like reference numbers. In the kit 4000, the lid panels 3016, 3018 are configured such that, in the closed position, a distal portion of the first lid panel 3016 overlaps a distal portion of the second lid panel 3018. This forms an overlapping-lid seam. The overlap creates a substantially continuous cover over the seam, which inhibits upward moisture egress during storage and transport. The base airflow panels 3012, 3014 and end airflow channels 3056 remain operativewhen the box is palletised. Once the Kit 4000 has been assembled, it may be referred to as the box 4001.

[0284] Kit 5000

[0285] The Kit 5000 shown in Figures 31A and 31B includes body blank 5002 and end blanks 600. The Kit 5000 operates in an analogous manner to the box 700 and like parts are labelled with like reference numbers. In the kit 5000, the lid panels of the body blank 5002 are configured such that, in the closed position, a distal portion of the first lid panel overlaps a distal portion of the second lid panel. This forms an overlapping-lid seam. The overlap creates a substantially continuous cover over the seam, which inhibits upward moisture egress during storage and transport. The base airflow panels and end airflow channels remain operative when the box is palletised. Once the Kit 5000 has been assembled, it may be referred to as the box 5001.

[0286] Many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention

[0287] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in Australia.

[0288] In this specification and the claims that follow, unless stated otherwise, the word "comprise" and its variations, such as "comprises" and "comprising", imply the inclusion of a stated integer, step, or group of integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0289] References in this specification to any prior publication, information derived from any said prior publication, or any known matter are not and should not be taken as an acknowledgement, admission or suggestion that said prior publication, or any information derived from this prior publication or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which the specification relates.

Claims

Claims Defininq the Invention1. A blank for a spoilage retarding box including:first and second end blanks;a body blank including:a planar base panel hingedly connected to opposing planar first and second wall panels; anda lid panel hingedly connected to the first wall panel;wherein when the blanks are formed into the box, the box includes at least one airflow channel that facilitates airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes, thereby retarding the spoilage of goods contained therein.

2. The blank of claim 1, wherein, the base panel is hingedly connected to the first and second wall panels by respective base airflow panels.

3. The blank of claim 2, wherein when the body blank is formed into the box the base airflow panels define transitional zones between the base panel and the respective first and second wall panels.

4. The blank of claim 1, wherein, the lid panel is a first lid panel, and the base blank further includes a second lid panel hingedly connected to the second wall panel.

5. The blank of claim 4, wherein an edge of the first lid panel includes a lid locating feature and an opposing edge of the second lid panel includes a corresponding lid locating feature.

6. The blank of claim 5, wherein the formed box is a first box, and when the first box is placed end to end with a second box, the lid locating features cause a lid joining seam of the first box to be offset relative to a lid joining seam of the second box.

7. The blank of claim 4, wherein the first lid panel and the second lid panel are hingedly connected to the respective first and second wall panels by respective lid airflow panels.

8. The blank of claim 7, wherein when the body blank is formed into the box the lid airflow panels define transitional zones between the first and second wall panels and the respective first and second lid panels when the lid panels are in a closed position.

9. The blank of claim 1 wherein, the first and second end blanks each include a first panel hingedly connected to a second panel.

10. The blank of claim 9, wherein the first end blank further includes a third panel hingedly connected to the first panel.

11. The blank of claim 10, wherein the first end blank includes one or more locating projection receiving slots, and when the first blank is folded about the hinged connection between the first panel and the third panel, the third panel substantially blocks at least one of the one or more locating projection receiving slots.

12. The blank of claim 1, wherein the lid panel includes at least one airflow channel substantially extending from one edge of the lid panel to an opposing edge of the lid panel to facilitate airflow when the lid panel is in a closed position and the box is palletised with other similar boxes.

13. The blank of claim 1, wherein the first and second end blanks are configured to substantial resist the majority of forces applied to the box compared to the wall panels.

14. The blank of claim 1, wherein, the base panel further includes at least one base securing flap;the first wall panel includes at least one wall securing flap; andwherein when the box is formed, the at least one base securing flap and the at least one wall securing flap define a first end airflow channel that facilitates airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes.

15. The blank of claim 14, wherein, the first end airflow channel is defined by a first edge of the base securing flap and a first edge of the wall securing flap,wherein the first edge of the base securing flap and the first edge of the wall securing flap form an angle that is transverse to the planes defined by the base panel and the lid panel.

16. The blank of claim 1 wherein, a first edge of the first lid panel includes at least one slot projection; andwherein when the box is formed, the at least one slot projection and the at least one wall securing flap define a second end airflow channel that facilitates airflow around the box when the lid is in the closed position and when the box is palletised with other similar boxes.

17. The blank of claim 1 wherein, a first edge of the first lid panel includes a first slot projection and a second slot projection, and the first slot projection and the second slot projection define a slot therebetween.

18. The blank of claim 17, wherein, the first end blank defines at least one locating projection that when the box is formed extends through the slot defined by the first and second slot projections of the first lid panel.

19. The blank of claim 17, wherein the at least one locating projection includes the at least one hinged connection between the first and second panels of the first end blank.

20. The blank of claim 1, wherein the base panel and at least one of the first end blank or the second end blank include a locating projection receiving slot, configured to receive a locating projection of another similar box.

21. The blank of claim 1 wherein when the box is formed, the lid panel extends to cover at least one exposed edge of each of the first and second end blanks, thereby reducing moisture loss from the interior of the box.

22. The blank of claim 21, wherein the lid panel extending to cover at least one exposed edge of each of the first and second end blanks further protects the at least one exposed edge of the first and second end blanks from damage.

23. The blank of claim 1, wherein at least one corner of the first lid panel isconfigured to sit inside a corresponding first corner defined by the first wall blank, the second wall blank and / or the body blank.

24. The blank of claim 23, wherein the at least one corner of the first lid panel includes a slit that allows for an interference fit between the at least one corner of the first lid panel and the corresponding first corner defined by the first wall blank, the second wall blank and / or the body blank.

25. A spoilage retarding box formed from:a body blank according to any one or more of the preceding claims;a first end blank according to any one or more of the preceding claims; and a second end blank according to any one or more of the preceding claims.

26. The box of claim 25, wherein, the first end blank comprises two panels or three panels, and the second end blank comprises two panels or three panels.

27. A kit of blanks for a spoilage retarding box including:(a) a body blank including:(i) a planar base panel;(ii) planar first and second side wall panels hingedly coupled to respective opposing sides of the planar base panel by respective first and second base airflow panels hingedly coupled therebetween; and(iii) planar first and second lid panels hingedly coupled to respective first and second side wall panels;(b) first and second end blanks, including:(i) a planar first end wall panel including two locating projections extending from a common side of the first end wall panel; and (ii) a planar second end wall panel including two locating projections extending from a common side of the second end wall panel; wherein the first and second end wall panels (3024, 3032) are coupled together by hinge) located between opposed locating projections,wherein the kit is formed into the box when:(a) the first and second side wall panels are arranged substantially normal to the base panel;(b) the first and second end blanks are each folded about respective hingesso that first end wall panels overly and abut respective second end wall panels;(c) arranging the first and second end blanks to extend normally from other opposed sides of the body blank; and(d) the first and second lid panels are closed over the first and second end blanks so that the locating projections extend through slots formed in respective sections of the lid panels,wherein the lid panels are at least partially secured in a closed position by way of frictional engagement between the locating projections and respective slots; and wherein the first and second base airflow panels are transverse to the respective first and second side wall panels when then the box is formed so as to facilitate airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes.

28. The kit claimed in claim 27, wherein each slot defines a locking tab arranged for frictional engagement with respective locating projections extending therethrough.

29. The kit claimed in claim 28, wherein the locating projections of the planar first end panels each include apertures shaped to at least partially receive locking tabs of slots of the lid panels to secure the box in a closed condition of use.

30. The kit claimed in any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein when the lid panels are configured to extend over upper end sections of the first and second end blanks to thereby inhibit ingress of moisture and / or contaminants into core sections of first and second end blanks.

31. The kit claimed in claim 30, wherein each slot is defined between a first slotdefining edge and a second slot-defining edge of an outer edge of a respective one of said lid panels, wherein only the first slot-defining edge extends over said upper sections of the first and second end blanks.

32. The kit claimed in claim 31, wherein for each slot, a ventilation aperture is formed between the second slot-defining edge and said upper section of a respective one of said first and second end blanks, wherein the ventilation aperture promotes inter-box airflow when closed boxes are palletised with other similar boxes.

33. The kit claimed in claim 27 , wherein the base panel further includes:a first and second base securing flaps hingedly coupled to respective other opposed side of the base panel; anda first and second wall securing flaps hingedly coupled to other opposed sides of respective first and second side wall panels,wherein, when the box is formed, the first and second base securing flaps are arranged to at least partially wrap around and secure respective end wall panels in fixed positions;wherein, when the box is formed, the first and second wall securing flaps are arranged to at least partially wrap around and secure respective end wall panels in fixed positions;wherein a first one of the base securing flaps together with a corresponding one of the wall securing flaps define a first end airflow channel configured to facilitate airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes.

34. The kit claimed in claim 33, wherein:the first end airflow channel is defined by a first edge of the first base securing flap and a first edge of the corresponding wall securing flap; andthe first edge of the first base securing flap and the first edge of the corresponding wall securing flap are angled relative to one another so as to form the first end airflow channel transverse to planes defined by the base panel and the lid panels.

35. The kit claimed in claim 33, wherein, when the box is formed:the first base securing flap and the corresponding first wall securing flap are folded to secure a first end wall panel in position; andthe folding and securing of the base securing flap and wall securing flap causes the first and second base airflow panels to be arranged transverse to the respective first and second side wall panels,wherein the base airflow panels thereby facilitate airflow around the box when the box is palletised with other similar boxes.

36. The kit claimed in claim 27, wherein at least one of the first or second end blanks further includes a third end wall panel hingedly coupled to the first end wall panel from an opposed side of the first end wall panel.

37. A box formed from the kit claimed in any one of claims 27 to 36.

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