EP3317211A1

EP3317211A1 - Package for confectionary products and method for forming same

Info

Publication number: EP3317211A1
Application number: EP16818660.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Justin Nunez
Original assignee: WM Wrigley Jr Co
Current assignee: WM Wrigley Jr Co
Priority date: 2015-06-30
Filing date: 2016-06-29
Publication date: 2018-05-09
Also published as: EP3317211A4; WO2017004170A1; CN107848695A

Abstract

A blank sheet material is used to form a package. The blank sheet of material includes a plurality of support panels coupled to a plurality of individually wrapped articles. The plurality of support panels includes a first support panel coupled to a first set of individually wrapped articles and a second support panel coupled to a second set of individually wrapped articles. The blank also includes at least a first end panel coupled between adjacent support panels. The first support panel is coupled to the first end panel at a first fold line and the second support panel is coupled to the first end panel at a second fold line. The first end panel includes a first length defined between the first and second fold lines, and the plurality of support panels are configured to at least partially overlap each other when the package is formed.

Description

PACKAGE FOR CONFECTIONARY PRODUCTS AND

METHOD FOR FORMING SAME

BACKGROUND

[0001] This invention relates generally to a package formed from a blank of sheet material, and more specifically to a package formed from a blank of sheet material and configured to be coupleable to a confectionary product. The confectionary product being releasably coupled to an inner surface of the package, and the package being movable from an open position to a closed position.

[0002] Packages fabricated from plastic, paperboard, and/or corrugated paperboard material are often used to package and display goods for retail marketing. At least some such packages are formed from blanks of sheet material that are folded along a plurality of preformed fold lines to form the package. Each such package may include a number of units of a product. At least some known packages are moveable between an open position and a closed position, such that a consumer may manipulate a portion of the package in order to access the product within and then further manipulate the package to prevent access to the remaining units in the package. However, at least some of these known packages include a housing portion for housing the product and a moveable cover that is moveable between an open position and a closed position for accessing the product within the housing portion. However, at least some of these known moveable covers are disposed solely at an end of the package, which limits consumer access to a narrow, potentially difficult to manipulate opening in the package.

[0003] Additionally, at least some of these known packages include multiple pockets or pouches for holding a product. These packages include pockets that fail to expose a substantial portion of the product to the consumer, which makes it difficult for the consumer to quickly and easily remove the product from the package. Furthermore, multiple pockets on a package may cause the package to have a relatively thick profile that may not be easily carried by the consumer. Additionally, multiple pockets require multiple panels from which to form the pockets and, therefore, additionally manufacturing time, complexity, and cost. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] In one aspect, a blank of sheet material for forming a package is provided. The blank sheet of packaging material includes a plurality of support panels coupled to a plurality of individually wrapped articles. The plurality of support panels includes a first support panel coupled to a first set of individually wrapped articles and a second support panel coupled to a second set of individually wrapped articles. The blank also includes at least a first end panel coupled between adjacent support panels of the plurality of support panels. The first support panel is coupled to the first end panel at a first fold line and the second support panel is coupled to the first end panel at a second fold line. The first end panel includes a first length defined between the first and second fold lines, and the plurality of support panels are configured to at least partially overlap each other when the package is formed.

[0005] In another aspect, a package formed from a blank of sheet material is provided. The package includes a plurality of support walls coupled to a plurality of individually wrapped articles. The plurality of support walls include a first support wall coupled to a first set of individually wrapped articles and a second support wall coupled to a first set of individually wrapped articles. The package also includes at least a first end wall coupled between adjacent support walls of the plurality of support walls. The first support wall is coupled to the first end wall at a first fold line and the second support wall is coupled to the first end wall at a second fold line. The first end wall includes a first width defined between the first and second fold lines, and the plurality of support walls are stacked on top of each other and are oriented perpendicular to the first end wall.

[0006] In another aspect, a method for forming a package from a blank of sheet material is provided. The method includes rotating a first support panel about a first fold line that separates the first support panel from a first end panel. Rotating the first support panel positions the first support panel substantially perpendicular to the first end panel. The method also includes rotating a second support panel about a second fold line such that the second support panel is substantially parallel to and at least partially overlaps the first support panel. The second fold line separates the second support panel from the first end panel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Fig. 1 is a top plan view of a first embodiment of a blank sheet of packaging material that may be used to form a package.

[0008] Fig. 2 is a side view of a package that may be formed from the blank shown in Fig. 1 in a closed configuration.

[0009] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the package shown in Fig. 2 in an open configuration.

[0010] Fig. 4 is a top plan view of a second embodiment of a blank sheet of packaging material that may be used to form a package.

[0011] Fig. 5 is a side view of a package that may be formed from the blank shown in Fig. 4 in a closed configuration.

[0012] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the package shown in Fig. 4 in a partially open configuration.

[0013] Fig. 7 is a top plan view of a third embodiment of a blank sheet of packaging material that may be used to form a package.

[0014] Fig. 8 is a side view of a package that may be formed from the blank shown in Fig. 7 in a closed configuration.

[0015] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the package shown in Fig. 7 in a partially open configuration.

[0016] Fig. 10 is a top plan view of a fourth embodiment of a blank sheet of packaging material that may be used to form a package.

[0017] Fig. 1 1 is a side view of a package that may be formed from the blank shown in Fig. 10 in a closed configuration.

[0018] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the package shown in Fig. 10 in a partially open configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0019] The packages and methods for forming packages from a blank described herein overcome the limitations of known reconfigurable packages. The packages and methods described herein include a reconfigurable lid that covers a top and, at least partially, a side portion of the package to increase ease of access into the package when the lid is open. The packages and methods described herein also include a locking mechanism for the lid that is formed as part of a single blank used to form the package. The locking mechanism enables the package to maintain a smooth, regular profile that improves a packing density and aesthetic appeal of the package.

[0020] Fig. 1 illustrates a top plan view of an example embodiment of a substantially flat blank 100 of sheet material. Fig. 2 is perspective view of an example embodiment of a package 200 formed from blank 100 in a closed configuration, and Fig. 3 is a perspective view of package 200 in an open configuration. It should be understood that blanks having shapes, sizes, and configurations different from blank 100 described and illustrated herein may be used to form package 200 shown in Figs. 2-3 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0021] With particular reference to Fig. 1 , in certain embodiments, blank 100 is fabricated from at least one of paperboard, cardboard, fiberboard, foamboard, corrugated paper, and any other suitable material known to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided. In alternative embodiments, blank 100 is fabricated from any suitable material, and therefore is not limited to a specific type of material. As shown in Fig. 1 , blank 100 has an interior surface 102 and an exterior surface 104. In certain embodiments, portions of exterior surface 104 and/or interior surface 102 of blank 100 include printed graphics, such as advertising and/or promotional materials. Blank 100 is substantially rectangular and includes a top edge 106, a bottom edge 108, a leading edge 1 10, and a trailing edge 1 12.

[0022] Blank 100 includes a plurality of aligned support panels and end panels connected together by a plurality of preformed, generally parallel, fold lines. Specifically, the support panels and end panels include, in series, a first support panel 114, a first end panel 1 16, and a second support panel 118. First support panel 1 14 extends from leading edge 1 10 to a first fold line 120 to define a length LI along top and bottom edges 106 and 108. End panel 116 extends from first fold line 120 to a second fold line 122 to define a length L2 along top and bottom edges 106 and 108. Similarly, second support panel 1 18 extends from second fold line 122 to trailing edge 1 12 to define a length LI along top and bottom edges 106 and 108. Each of support panels 114 and 1 18 and end panel 116 extends an entire height H of blank 100 between top and bottom edges 106 and 108. As such, in certain embodiments, support panels 114 and 1 18 are substantially similar in size in shape with end panel 116 positioned therebetween.

[0023] As shown in Fig. 1 , each support panel 1 14 and 118 is coupled to a plurality of individually wrapped articles 124, such as, but not limited to, confectionary products such as pad or sticks of gum. Specifically, first support panel 1 14 is coupled to a first set 126 of articles 124 and second support panel 1 18 is coupled to a second set 128 of articles 124. In certain embodiments, articles 124 are releasably coupled to support panels 114 and 118 using an adhesive. Alternatively, articles 124 are coupled to support panels 114 and 1 18 by any means that facilitates operation of package 200 as described herein. Individually wrapped articles 124 are shown in dashed lines in Figs. 1-3 for clarity.

[0024] In certain embodiments, fold lines 120 and 122 are crease lines that enable various portions of blank 100 to be rotated with respect to other portions. Alternatively, fold lines 120 are score lines that facilitate rotating various portions of blank 100 as the fold lines, but also facilitate separating a portion of blank 100 from the remainder. For example, a user may elect to share one or more articles 124 with another person. Perforated score lines enable the user to separate a desired portion of blank 100 for the purpose of giving it to another person. Furthermore, perforated score lines enable the user to separate a desired portion of blank 100 when the articles 124 from that portion have already been consumed and it is desired to dispose of the portion of blank 100 formerly coupled to the articles 124.

[0025] Referring now to Figs 2 and 3, blank 100 is folded to form package 200. Fig. 2 illustrates package 200 in a closed configuration 202, and Fig. 3 illustrates package 200 in an open configuration 204. To form package 200, first support panel 114 (shown in Fig. 1) forms a first support wall 206 and is folded over first fold line 120 such that first support wall 206 is substantially perpendicular to a first end wall 208, formed from first end panel 116 (shown in Fig. 1). Similarly, second support panel 1 18 (shown in Fig. 1) forms a second support wall 210 and is folded over second fold line 122 such that second support wall 210 is also substantially perpendicular to first end wall 208. As such, support walls 206 and 210 are substantially parallel and at least partially overlap each other such that front surfaces 102 of each face each other.

[0026] In some embodiments, package 200 includes a tab or foldable cover extending from one outer surface (top) to an opposing outer surface (bottom) configured to close package 200. For example, a tab or flap may extend from wall 210 to wall 206 and opposite from wall 208 to facilitate closing package 200. The tab or flap may couple to wall 206 using an adhesive or may fit into a slit formed in wall 206. Generally, package 200 may include any closure device that maintains package in the closed configuration 202.

[0027] In certain embodiments, each support wall 206 and 210 includes a first thickness Tl such that each support wall 206 and 210 includes a single, substantially flat, sheet of material and does not include a pocket or pouch in which to house individually wrapped articles 124. As such, each of first and second sets 126 and 128 of individually wrapped articles 126 and 128, including a thickness T2, are releasably coupled to respective support wall 206 and 210 as described above. End wall 208 includes length L2 equal to at least twice the thickness Tl of each of support walls 206 and 210 plus twice the thickness T2 of articles 124. Although Fig. 2 illustrates first and second sets 126 and 128 separated by a gap, this is for clarity only. In operation, individually wrapped articles 124 of first set 126 contact the articles 124 of second set 128 and prevent support walls 206 and 210 from contacting each other. Furthermore, each individually wrapped article 124 includes a height substantially similar to height H of walls 206 and 210 and a length substantially similar to one half the length of support walls 206 and 210. As such, each set of individually wrapped products 124 substantially covers an entirety of inner surface 102 of a respective wall 206 and 210.

[0028] Fig. 4 illustrates a top plan view of an example embodiment of a substantially flat blank 300 of sheet material. Fig. 5 is perspective view of an example embodiment of a package 400 formed from blank 300 in a closed configuration, and Fig. 6 is a perspective view of package 400 in an open configuration. It should be understood that blanks having shapes, sizes, and configurations different from blank 300 described and illustrated herein may be used to form package 400 shown in Figs. 5-6 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0029] With particular reference to Fig. 4, in certain embodiments, blank 300 is similar to blank 100 in that blank 300 fabricated from at least one of paperboard, cardboard, fiberboard, foamboard, corrugated paper, and any other suitable material known to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided. In alternative embodiments, blank 300 is fabricated from any suitable material, and therefore is not limited to a specific type of material. As shown in Fig. 4, blank 300 has an interior surface 302 and an exterior surface 304. In certain embodiments, portions of exterior surface 304 and/or interior surface 302 of blank 300 include printed graphics, such as advertising and/or promotional materials. Blank 300 is substantially rectangular and includes a top edge 306, a bottom edge 308, a leading edge 310, and a trailing edge 312.

[0030] Blank 300 includes a plurality of aligned support panels and end panels connected together by a plurality of preformed, generally parallel, fold lines. Specifically, the support panels and end panels include, in series, a first support panel 314, a first end panel 316, a second support panel 318, a second end panel 320, and a third support panel 322. First support panel 314 extends from leading edge 310 to a first fold line 324 to define a length LI along top and bottom edges 306 and 308. End panel 316 extends from first fold line 324 to a second fold line 326 to define a length L3 along top and bottom edges 306 and 308. Similarly, second support panel 318 extends from second fold line 326 to a third fold line 328 for a length LI along edges 306 and 308, and second end panel 320 extends from third fold line 328 to a fourth fold line 330 to define a length L2, which is shorter than length L3 of first end panel 316. Finally, third support panel 322 extends from fourth fold line 330 to trailing edge 312 for a length LI along top and bottom edges 306 and 308. Each of support panels 314, 318, and 322 and end panels 316 and 320 extends an entire height H of blank 300 between top and bottom edges 306 and 308. As such, in certain embodiments, support panels 314, 318, and 322 are substantially similar in size in shape with end panels 316 and 320 positioned between adjacent support panels. [0031] As shown in Fig. 4, each support panel 314, 318, and 322 is coupled to a plurality of individually wrapped articles 332, such as, but not limited to, confectionary products such as pad or sticks of gum. Specifically, first support panel 314 is coupled to a first set 334 of articles 332, second support panel 318 is coupled to a second set 336 of articles 332, and third support panel 322 is coupled to a third set 338 of articles 332. In certain embodiments, articles 332 are releasably coupled to support panels 314, 318, and 322 using an adhesive. Alternatively, articles 332 are coupled to support panels 314, 318, and 322 by any means that facilitates operation of package 400 as described herein. Individually wrapped articles 332 are shown in dashed lines in Figs. 4-6 for clarity.

[0032] In certain embodiments, fold lines 324, 326, 328, and 330 are crease lines that enable various portions of blank 300 to be rotated with respect to other portions. Alternatively, fold lines 324, 326, 328, and 330 are score lines that facilitate rotating various portions of blank 300 as the fold lines, but also facilitate separating a portion of blank 300 from the remainder. For example, a user may elect to share one or more articles 332 with another person. Perforated score lines enable the user to separate a desired portion of blank 300 for the purpose of giving it to another person. Furthermore, perforated score lines enable the user to separate a desired portion of blank 300 when the articles 332 from that portion have already been consumed and it is desired to dispose of the portion of blank 300 formerly coupled to the articles 332.

[0033] Referring now to Figs 5 and 6, blank 300 is folded to form package 400. Fig. 5 illustrates package 400 in a closed configuration 402, and Fig. 6 illustrates package 400 in an open configuration 404. To form package 400, first support panel 314 (shown in Fig. 4) forms a first support wall 406 and is folded over first fold line 324 such that first support wall 406 is substantially perpendicular to a first end wall 408, formed from first end panel 316 (shown in Fig. 4). Similarly, second support panel 318 (shown in Fig. 4) forms a second support wall 410 and is folded over second fold line 326 such that second support wall 410 is also substantially perpendicular to first end wall 408. Likewise, second end panel 320 forms second end wall 412 and is folded over third fold line 328 such that second end wall 412 is substantially perpendicular to support walls 406 and 410 and parallel to end wall 408. Finally, a third support wall 414, formed from third support panel 322, is folded over fourth fold line 330 such that third support wall 414 is substantially perpendicular to end walls 408 and 412 and parallel to support walls 406 and 410. As such, when package 400 is in the closed configuration 402, support walls 406, 410, and 414 are stacked on top of one another with third support wall 414 being positioned between first and second support walls 406 and 410.

[0034] In certain embodiments, each support wall 406, 410, and 414 includes a first thickness Tl such that each support wall 406, 410, and 414 includes a single, substantially flat, sheet of material and does not include a pocket or pouch in which to house individually wrapped articles 332. As such, each of first, second, and third sets 334, 336, and 338 of individually wrapped articles 332, including a thickness T2, are releasably coupled to a respective support wall 406, 410, and 414 as described above. End wall 408 includes length L3 equal to at least three times the thickness Tl of each of support walls 406, 410, and 414 plus three times the thickness T2 of articles 332. Although Fig. 5 illustrates first set 334 separated by a gap from rear side 304 of third support wall 414, this is for clarity only. In operation, individually wrapped articles 332 of first set 334 contact rear side 304 of third support wall 414. Similarly, although Fig. 5 illustrates second and third sets 336 and 338 of articles 332 separated by a gap, this is for clarity only. In operation, individually wrapped articles 332 of first set 334 contact articles 334 of second set 338 and prevent support walls 410 and 414 from contacting each other.

[0035] Fig. 7 illustrates a top plan view of an example embodiment of a substantially flat blank 500 of sheet material. Fig. 8 is perspective view of an example embodiment of a package 600 formed from blank 500 in a closed configuration, and Fig. 9 is a perspective view of package 600 in an open configuration. It should be understood that blanks having shapes, sizes, and configurations different from blank 500 described and illustrated herein may be used to form package 600 shown in Figs. 8-9 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0036] With particular reference to Fig. 7, in certain embodiments, blank 500 is similar to blanks 100 and 300 in that blank 500 fabricated from at least one of paperboard, cardboard, fiberboard, foamboard, corrugated paper, and any other suitable material known to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided. In alternative embodiments, blank 500 is fabricated from any suitable material, and therefore is not limited to a specific type of material. As shown in Fig. 7, blank 500 has an interior surface 502 and an exterior surface 504. In certain embodiments, portions of exterior surface 504 and/or interior surface 502 of blank 500 include printed graphics, such as advertising and/or promotional materials. Blank 500 is substantially rectangular and includes a top edge 506, a bottom edge 508, a leading edge 510, and a trailing edge 512.

[0037] Blank 500 includes a plurality of aligned support panels and end panels connected together by a plurality of preformed, generally parallel, fold lines. Specifically, the support panels and end panels include, in series, a first support panel 514, a first end panel 516, a second support panel 518, a second end panel 520, a third support panel 522, a third end panel 524, and a fourth support panel 526. First support panel 514 extends from leading edge 510 to a first fold line 528 for length LI along top and bottom edges 506 and 508. End panel 516 extends from first fold line 528 to a second fold line 530 for length L2 along top and bottom edges 506 and 508. Similarly, second support panel 518 extends from second fold line 530 to a third fold line 532 for length LI, second end panel 520 extends from third fold line 532 to a fourth fold line 534 for length L3, which is longer than length L2 of first end panel 516, and third support panel 522 extends from fourth fold line 534 to a fifth fold line 536 for length LI . Finally, third end panel 524 extends from fifth fold line 536 to a sixth fold line 538 for a length L4, which is longer than lengths L2 and L3, and fourth support panel 526 extends from sixth fold line 538 to trailing edge 512 for length LI along top and bottom edges 506 and 508. Each of support panels 514, 518, 522, and 526 and end panels 516, 520, and 524 extends an entire height H of blank 500 between top and bottom edges 506 and 508. As such, in certain embodiments, support panels 514, 518, 522, and 526 are substantially similar in size in shape with end panels 516, 520, and 524 positioned between adjacent support panels.

[0038] As shown in Fig. 7, each support panel 514, 518, 522, and 526 is coupled to a plurality of individually wrapped articles 540, such as, but not limited to, confectionary products such as pad or sticks of gum. Specifically, first support panel 514 is coupled to a first set 542 of articles 540, second support panel 518 is coupled to a second set 544 of articles 540, third support panel 522 is coupled to a third set 546 of articles 540, and fourth support panel 526 is coupled to a fourth set 548 of articles 540. In certain embodiments, articles 540 are releasably coupled to support panels 514, 518, 522, and 526 using an adhesive. Alternatively, articles 540 are coupled to support panels 514, 518, 522, and 526 by any means that facilitates operation of package 600 as described herein. Individually wrapped articles 540 are shown in dashed lines in Figs. 7-9 for clarity. [0039] In certain embodiments, fold lines 528, 530, 532, 534, 536, and 538 are crease lines that enable various portions of blank 500 to be rotated with respect to other portions. Alternatively, fold lines 528, 530, 532, 534, 536, and 538 are score lines that facilitate rotating various portions of blank 500 as the fold lines, but also facilitate separating a portion of blank 500 from the remainder. For example, a user may elect to share one or more articles 540 with another person. Perforated score lines enable the user to separate a desired portion of blank 500 for the purpose of giving it to another person. Furthermore, perforated score lines enable the user to separate a desired portion of blank 500 when the articles 540 from that portion have already been consumed and it is desired to dispose of the portion of blank 500 formerly coupled to the articles 540.

[0040] Referring now to Figs 8 and 9, blank 500 is folded to form package 600. Fig. 8 illustrates package 600 in a closed configuration 602, and Fig. 9 illustrates package 600 in a partially open configuration 604. To form package 600, first support panel 514 (shown in Fig. 7) forms a first support wall 606 and is folded over first fold line 528 such that first support wall 606 is substantially perpendicular to a first end wall 608, formed from first end panel 516 (shown in Fig. 7). Next, first end wall 608 and first support wall 606 are rotated about second fold line 530 such that first support wall 606 is stacked on top of a second support wall 610, formed from second support panel 518 (shown in Fig. 7). In combination, support walls 606 and 610 and end wall 608 form a folded sub-assembly 61 1.

[0041] Sub-assembly 61 1 is then rotated about third fold line 532 such that support walls 606 and 610 of sub-assembly 611 are oriented perpendicular to second end panel 520 (shown in Fig. 7), which forms a second end wall 612. Sub-assembly 61 1 and second end wall 612 are then rotated over fourth fold line 534 such that support walls 606 and 610 are stacked on top of and aligned with a third support wall 614, formed from third support panel 522 (shown in Fig. 7). Third support wall 614, second end wall 612, and sub-assembly 611 are then rotated about fifth fold line 536 such that support walls 606, 610, and 614are oriented perpendicular to third end panel 524 (shown in Fig. 7), which forms a third end wall 616. Finally, third end wall 616, third support wall 614, second end wall 612 and sub-assembly 611 are rotated about sixth fold line 538 such that support walls 606, 610, and 614 are stacked on top of and aligned with a fourth support wall 618, formed from fourth support panel 526 (shown in Fig. 7) to position package 600 in the closed configuration 602. More specifically, in the closed configuration 602, support walls 606, 610, 614, and 618 are aligned with and substantially overlap each other, with support walls 606 and 610 being positioned between support walls 614 and 618. Further, end walls 608, 612, and 616 are all parallel to each other and perpendicular to each of support walls 606, 610, 614, and 618.

[0042] In certain embodiments, each support wall 606, 610, 614, and 618 includes a first thickness Tl such that each support wall 606, 610, 614, and 618 includes a single, substantially flat, sheet of material and does not include a pocket or pouch in which to house individually wrapped articles 540. As such, each of first, second, third, and fourth sets 542, 544, 546, and 548 of individually wrapped articles 540, including a thickness T2, are releasably coupled to a respective support wall 606, 610, 614, and 618 as described above. End wall 612 includes length L3 equal to at least three times the thickness Tl of each of support walls 606, 610, and 614plus three times the thickness T2 of articles 540. Similarly, end wall 616 includes a length L4 equal to at least four times the thickness Tl of each of support walls 606, 610, 614, and 618 plus four times the thickness T2 of articles 540.

[0043] Although Fig. 8 illustrates first set 542 and second set 544 articles 540 separated by a gap, this is for clarity only. In operation, individually wrapped articles 540 of first set 542 contact articles 540 of second set 544 and prevent support walls 606 and 610 from contacting each other. Similarly, although Fig. 8 illustrates third set 546 and fourth set 548 articles 540 separated by a gap from respective rear sides 504 of first and second support wall 606 and 610, this is for clarity only. In operation, individually wrapped articles 540 of third set 546 contact rear side 504 of first support wall 606 and articles 540 of fourth set 548 contact rear side 504 of second support wall 610.

[0044] Fig. 10 illustrates a top plan view of an example embodiment of a substantially flat blank 700 of sheet material. Fig. 1 1 is perspective view of an example embodiment of a package 800 formed from blank 700 in a closed configuration, and Fig. 12 is a perspective view of package 800 in a partially open configuration. It should be understood that blanks having shapes, sizes, and configurations different from blank 700 described and illustrated herein may be used to form package 800 shown in Figs. 1 1 -12 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. [0045] With particular reference to Fig. 10, in certain embodiments, blank 700 is similar to blanks 100, 300, and 500 in that blank 700 fabricated from at least one of paperboard, cardboard, fiberboard, foamboard, corrugated paper, and any other suitable material known to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided. In alternative embodiments, blank 700 is fabricated from any suitable material, and therefore is not limited to a specific type of material. As shown in Fig. 10, blank 700 has an interior surface 702 and an exterior surface 704. In certain embodiments, portions of exterior surface 704 and/or interior surface 702 of blank 700 include printed graphics, such as advertising and/or promotional materials. Blank 700 is substantially rectangular and includes a top edge 706, a bottom edge 708, a leading edge 710, and a trailing edge 712.

[0046] Blank 700 includes a plurality of aligned support panels and end panels connected together by a plurality of preformed, generally parallel, fold lines. Specifically, the support panels and end panels include, in series, a first support panel 714, a first end panel 716, a second support panel 718, a second end panel 720, a third support panel 722, a third end panel 724, and a fourth support panel 726. First support panel 714 extends from leading edge 710 to a first fold line 728 for length LI along top and bottom edges 706 and 708. End panel 716 extends from first fold line 728 to a second fold line 730 for length L2 along top and bottom edges 706 and 708. Similarly, second support panel 718 extends from second fold line 730 to a third fold line 732 for length LI, second end panel 720 extends from third fold line 732 to a fourth fold line 734 for length L4, which is longer than length L2 of first end panel 716, and third support panel 722 extends from fourth fold line 734 to a fifth fold line 736 for length LI . Finally, third end panel 724 extends from fifth fold line 736 to a sixth fold line 738 for length L2, and fourth support panel 726 extends from sixth fold line 738 to trailing edge 712 for length LI along top and bottom edges 706 and 708. Each of support panels 714, 718, 722, and 726 and end panels 716, 720, and 724 extends an entire height H of blank 700 between top and bottom edges 706 and 708. As such, in certain embodiments, support panels 714, 718, 722, and 726 are substantially similar in size in shape with end panels 716, 720, and 724 positioned between adjacent support panels.

[0047] As shown in Fig. 10, each support panel 714, 718, 722, and 726 is coupled to a plurality of individually wrapped articles 740, such as, but not limited to, confectionary products such as pad or sticks of gum. Specifically, first support panel 714 is coupled to a first set 742 of articles 740, second support panel 718 is coupled to a second set 744 of articles 740, third support panel 722 is coupled to a third set 746 of articles 740, and fourth support panel 726 is coupled to a fourth set 748 of articles 740. In certain embodiments, articles 740 are releasably coupled to support panels 714, 718, 722, and 726 using an adhesive. Alternatively, articles 740 are coupled to support panels 714, 718, 722, and 726 by any means that facilitates operation of package 600 as described herein. Individually wrapped articles 740 are shown in dashed lines in Figs. 7-9 for clarity.

[0048] In certain embodiments, fold lines 728, 730, 732, 734, 736, and 738 are crease lines that enable various portions of blank 700 to be rotated with respect to other portions. Alternatively, fold lines 728, 730, 732, 734, 736, and 738 are score lines that facilitate rotating various portions of blank 700 as the fold lines, but also facilitate separating a portion of blank 700 from the remainder. For example, a user may elect to share one or more articles 740 with another person. Perforated score lines enable the user to separate a desired portion of blank 700 for the purpose of giving it to another person. Furthermore, perforated score lines enable the user to separate a desired portion of blank 700 when the articles 740 from that portion have already been consumed and it is desired to dispose of the portion of blank 700 formerly coupled to the articles 740.

[0049] Referring now to Figs 11 and 12, blank 700 is folded to form package 800. Fig. 1 1 illustrates package 800 in a closed configuration 802, and Fig. 12 illustrates package 800 in a partially open configuration 804. To form package 800, first support panel 714 (shown in Fig. 10) forms a first support wall 806 and is folded over first fold line 728 such that first support wall 806 is substantially perpendicular to a first end wall 808, formed from first end panel 716 (shown in Fig. 10). Next, first end wall 808 and first support wall 806 are rotated about second fold line 730 such that first support wall 806 is stacked on top of a second support wall 810, formed from second support panel 718 (shown in Fig. 10). In combination, support walls 806 and 810 and end wall 808 form a folded sub-assembly 81 1.

[0050] Similarly, fourth support panel 726 (shown in Fig. 10) forms a fourth support wall 818 and is folded over sixth fold line 738 such that fourth support wall 818 is substantially perpendicular to a third end wall 816, formed from third end panel 724 (shown in Fig. 10). Next, third end wall 816 and fourth support wall 818 are rotated about fifth fold line 736 such that fourth support wall 818 is stacked on top of a third support wall 814, formed from third support panel 722 (shown in Fig. 10). In combination, support walls 818 and 814 and end wall 816 form a second folded sub-assembly 819.

[0051] Sub-assembly 819 is then rotated about fourth fold line 734 such that support walls 814 and 818 of sub-assembly 819 are oriented perpendicular to second end panel 720 (shown in Fig. 10), which forms a second end wall 812. Sub-assembly 819 and second end wall 812 are then rotated over third fold line 732 such that second subassembly 819 is stacked on top of and aligned with first sub-assembly 811 to position package 800 in the closed configuration 802. More specifically, in the closed configuration 802, support walls 806, 810, 814, and 818 are aligned with and substantially overlap each other, with support walls 806 and 818 being positioned between support walls 810 and 814. Further, end walls 808, 812, and 816 are all parallel to each other and perpendicular to each of support walls 806, 810, 814, and 818.

[0052] In certain embodiments, each support wall 806, 810, 814, and 818 includes a first thickness Tl such that each support wall 806, 810, 814, and 818 includes a single, substantially flat, sheet of material and does not include a pocket or pouch in which to house individually wrapped articles 740. As such, each of first, second, third, and fourth sets 742, 744, 746, and 748 of individually wrapped articles 740, including a thickness T2, are releasably coupled to a respective support wall 806, 810, 814, and 818 as described above. End walls 808 and 816 include length L2 equal to at least twice the thickness Tl of each of support walls plus twice the thickness T2 of articles 740. Similarly, end wall 812 includes a length L4 equal to at least four times the thickness Tl of each of support walls plus four times the thickness T2 of articles 740.

[0053] Although Fig. 11 illustrates first set 742 and second set 744 articles 740 separated by a gap, this is for clarity only. In operation, individually wrapped articles 740 of first set 742 contact articles 740 of second set 744 and prevent support walls 806 and 810 from contacting each other. Similarly, although Fig. 1 1 illustrates third set 746 and fourth set 748 of articles 740 separated by a gap, this is for clarity only. In operation, individually wrapped articles 740 of third set 746 contact articles 740 of fourth set 748 and prevent support walls 814 and 818 from contacting each other. Likewise, although Fig. 1 1 illustrates a gap between rear surfaces of support walls 816 and 818, this is for clarity only. In operation, rear surfaces of support walls 816 and 818 contact each other when package 800 is in the closed configuration.

[0054] The example embodiments described herein provide a package that includes a plurality of support walls and a plurality of end walls positioned between adjacent support walls. The combination of similarly sized support walls and various numbers and sizes of end walls advantageously facilitate forming a reconfigurable book or wallet type package. A set of individually wrapped articles are releasably coupled to each of the support walls such that, when the package is in an open configuration, an entirety of the article is provided to enable ease of removal. Furthermore, each of the plurality of support walls comprises a single sheet of material. That is, the plurality of support walls comprise no pockets or pouches in which to hold the articles. As such, the example embodiments of the package are less costly, faster, and easier to manufacture and also reduce or eliminate a bulge in a rectangular profile of the package that might otherwise be caused by pocket forming materials, advantageously facilitating an improved packing density and aesthetic appeal of the package.

[0055] Example embodiments of packages and methods for forming packages from a blank are described above in detail. The packages and methods for forming packages from a blank are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather, components of systems and/or steps of the methods may be utilized independently and separately from other components and/or steps described herein. For example, the method may also be used in combination with other blanks and packages, and is not limited to practice with only the blank and package described herein.

[0056] Although specific features of various embodiments of the disclosure may be shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only. In accordance with the principles of the disclosure, any feature of a drawing may be referenced and/or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.

[0057] This written description uses examples to illustrate the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A blank of sheet material for forming a package, the blank comprising: a plurality of support panels comprising a first support panel and a second support panel, wherein each support panel is releasably coupled to a respective set of individually wrapped articles; and at least a first end panel coupled between adjacent support panels of the plurality of support panels, wherein the first support panel is coupled to the first end panel at a first fold line and the second support panel is coupled to the first end panel at a second fold line, the first end panel including a first length defined between the first and second fold lines, wherein the plurality of support panels are configured to at least partially overlap each other when the package is formed.

2. The blank of claim 1 , wherein the first and second support panels extend outward from respective first and second fold lines.

3. The blank of claim 1 , wherein each support panel is sized and shaped substantially similarly.

4. The blank of claim 1 , wherein each support panel includes a height substantially similar to a height of the first end panel.

5. The blank of claim 1, wherein the first support panel includes a leading edge and the second support panel includes a trailing edge that is configured to be aligned with the leading edge when the package is formed.

6. The blank of claim 1, further comprising: a second end panel coupled to the second support panel at a third fold line; and a third support panel coupled to the second end panel at a fourth fold line, the second end panel including a second length defined between the third and fourth fold lines.

7. The blank of claim 6, wherein the first length is substantially similar to the second length.

8. The blank of claim 6, wherein the first length is larger than the second length.

9. The blank of claim 6, wherein the third support panel is configured to be positioned between the first and second support panels when the package is formed.

10. The blank of claim 6, wherein the third support panel includes a trailing edge configured to align with the second fold line when the package is formed.

11. The blank of claim 6, wherein the plurality of support panels are configured to be parallel to each other with the package is formed, and wherein the first and second end panels are configured to be parallel to each other when the package is formed, wherein the plurality of support panels are configured to be perpendicular to the first and second end panels when the package is formed.

12. The blank of claim 6 further comprising: a third end panel coupled to the third support panel at a fifth fold line; and a fourth support panel coupled to the third end panel at a sixth fold line, the third end panel including a third length defined between the fifth and sixth fold lines.

13. The blank of claim 12, wherein the first length is smaller than the second length and the second length is smaller than the third length.

14. The blank of claim 12, wherein the first length is substantially similar to the third length and the second length is larger than the first and third lengths.

15. The blank of claim 12, wherein the first support panel is configured to be stacked on the second support panel to form a first folded sub-assembly when the package is formed.

16. The blank of claim 15, wherein the third support panel is configured to be stacked on the fourth support panel to form a second folded sub-assembly when the package is formed, wherein the first folded sub-assembly is configured to be stacked on the second folded sub-assembly when the package is formed.

17. The blank of claim 15, wherein the first folded sub-assembly is configured to be stacked on the third support panel and the fourth support panel is configured to be stacked on the first folded sub-assembly when the package is formed.

18. The blank of claim 6, wherein the third support panel is configured to couple to a third set of individually wrapped articles.

19. The blank of claim 12, wherein the fourth support panel is configured to couple to a fourth set of individually wrapped articles.

20. A package formed from a blank of sheet material, the package comprising: a plurality of support walls comprising a first support wall and a second support wall, wherein each support wall is releasably coupled to a respective set of individually wrapped articles; and at least a first end wall coupled between adj acent support walls of the plurality of support walls, wherein the first support wall is coupled to the first end wall at a first fold line and the second support wall is coupled to the first end wall at a second fold line, the first end wall including a first width defined between the first and second fold lines, wherein the plurality of support walls are stacked on top of each other and are oriented perpendicular to the first end wall.

21. A method for forming a package from a blank of sheet material, the method comprising: rotating a first support panel about a first fold line that separates the first support panel from a first end panel, wherein rotating the first support panel positions the first support panel substantially perpendicular to the first end panel; and rotating a second support panel about a second fold line such that the second support panel is substantially parallel to and at least partially overlaps the first support panel, wherein the second fold line separates the second support panel from the first end panel.