EP3863942A1

EP3863942A1 - A package for sheet products

Info

Publication number: EP3863942A1
Application number: EP18786298.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Franziska Meyer; Yim PENG CHEE; Alessandro Galata
Original assignee: Essity Hygiene and Health AB
Current assignee: Essity Hygiene and Health AB
Priority date: 2018-10-11
Filing date: 2018-10-11
Publication date: 2021-08-18
Anticipated expiration: 2038-10-11
Also published as: EP3863942B1; CN110282258B; CN110282258A; ES2931306T3; WO2020074086A1

Abstract

There is provided a package for sheet products. The package comprises a covering which defines an internal space of the package. The internal space is configured to hold the sheet products within the internal space. The covering defines a releasable tab. The releasable tab is configured to be only partially releasable from the covering so as to open a dispensing aperture in the covering. The dispensing aperture is configured to allow dispensing of the sheet products from the package. The releasable tab, once released, is configured such that a first, fixed portion of the releasable tab remains fixed to the covering. The releasable tab, once released, is configured such that a second, releasable portion of the releasable tab is attachable to a portion of the covering such that the releasable tab forms a handle between the first, fixed portion and the second, releasable portion for carrying the package.

Description

A PACKAGE FOR SHEET PRODUCTS

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a package for sheet products, and particularly to a package for sheet products comprising a releasable tab which forms a handle for carrying the package. The present invention also relates to a package for sheet products comprising a closure flap.

Background

Typically, packages for sheet products do not comprise any convenient means for handling the package. Accordingly, in typical packages for sheet products, the user is not provided with any convenient means of holding the package, for example, when removing sheet products therefrom.

In the art, this issue has been partially solved by providing a package for sheet products with an additional handle. Such handles may be used by the user to carry the package in a convenient manner, or for conveniently hanging the package from a fixed structure, for example, a hook attached to a wall or a piece of furniture.

However, in these known packages with handles, the handles are separate structures from the package. Therefore, these handles must be provided with the package, for example, by using additional packaging that stores both the package and the separate handle therein. Accordingly, the user must then remove the additional packaging and thereafter install the handle to the packaging so as to carry the packaging, which requires additional steps and is inconvenient. In view of the above, there is a need for an improved package for sheet products which allows the user to carry the package using a convenient-to-form handle.

Additionally, in typical packages for sheet products, the dispensing aperture through which the sheet products may be removed from the package is closed using a reusable adhesive adjacent to the dispensing aperture and/or on a closure flap which closes the dispensing aperture.

However, in such known packages, the reusable adhesive tends to gather dirt which results in the effectiveness of the adhesive reducing over time. Therefore, with such typical packages, after repeated opening and closing of the closure flap, the adhesive becomes ineffective and the dispensing aperture cannot be securely closed.

In view of the above, there is also a need for an improved package for sheet products which allows for reliable closure of the dispensing aperture even after a large number of uses.

Summary of the Invention

In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a package for sheet products. The package comprises a covering which defines an internal space of the package. The internal space is configured to hold the sheet products within the internal space. The covering defines a releasable tab. The releasable tab is configured to be only partially releasable from the covering so as to open a dispensing aperture in the covering. The dispensing aperture is configured to allow dispensing of the sheet products from the package. The releasable tab, once released, is configured such that a first, fixed portion of the releasable tab remains fixed to the covering. The releasable tab, once released, is configured such that a second, releasable portion of the releasable tab is attachable to a portion of the covering such that the releasable tab forms a handle between the first, fixed portion and the second, releasable portion for carrying the package.

Throughout this disclosure, the term 'covering' is to be interpreted as any element that is suitable for covering at least a portion of the sheet products.

Throughout this disclosure, reference to a handle for carrying the package is a reference to an element which is suitable for carrying the entire weight of the package including the sheet products.

With the above configuration, before the releasable tab is released, the dispensing aperture is closed by the releasable tab .

Accordingly, for the user to access the sheet products, the user is naturally required to release the releasable tab so as to open the dispensing aperture, which thereafter allows the user to dispense the sheet products from the package. As the releasable tab is only partially releasable from the covering, even after release, the releasable tab does not completely detach from the rest of the covering. Specifically, with the above configuration, once the releasable tab is released, the first, fixed portion of the releasable tab remains fixed to the covering, and the second, releasable portion is then attachable to a portion of the covering such that the releasable tab forms a handle between the first, fixed portion and the second, releasable portion for carrying the package.

Therefore, with the above configuration, the releasable tab, which must be released to open the dispensing aperture, naturally also functions to form a handle for carrying the package without requiring any additional, separate components .

Hence, with such a configuration, it is possible to provide an improved package for sheet products which allows the user to carry the package using a convenient-to-form handle.

In one embodiment, the covering is configured to cover the majority or substantially all of the outer surface of the sheet products.

In one embodiment, the covering is formed of a single layer.

In one embodiment, the covering comprises two or more layers.

In one embodiment, the covering comprises a first layer and a second layer disposed on top of the first layer. In one embodiment, the second layer is disposed only on a portion of the first layer. In one embodiment, the portion of the first layer defines the dispensing aperture. In one embodiment, the second layer comprises the releasable tab which is releasable to expose the dispensing opening defined in the first layer. In one embodiment, the second layer is permanently attached to the first layer. In one embodiment, the second layer defines the dispensing aperture. In one embodiment, the first layer and the second layer together define the dispensing aperture .

Throughout this disclosure, reference to the first, fixed portion being fixed to the covering may refer to the first, fixed portion being permanently or securely attached to the covering. In other words, the first, fixed portion cannot be removed from the rest of the covering without irreversibly damaging the package.

In one embodiment, the first, fixed portion is integral with the covering. In one embodiment, the first, fixed portion of the releasable tab and the neighbouring portion of the rest of the covering are formed from the same piece of material.

In one embodiment, the first, fixed portion of the releasable tab and the neighbouring portion of the rest of the covering are formed from a continuous piece of material.

In one embodiment, the releasable tab and the surrounding portion of the rest of the covering are formed from the same piece of material. In one embodiment, the releasable tab and the rest of the covering are formed from the same piece of material .

In one embodiment, the handle forms a loop. In one embodiment, the loop is defined by the releasable tab between the first, fixed portion, the second, releasable portion and the portion of the covering between the first, fixed portion and the second, releasable portion.

In one embodiment, the handle forms an arc-like shape. In one embodiment, the arc-like shape is defined by the releasable tab between the first, fixed portion and the second, releasable portion.

In one embodiment, the covering is formed from plastic. In one embodiment, the covering is formed from polyalkylene such as polyethylene or polypropylene. In one embodiment, the covering is formed from polyester, such as polyethylene terephthalate . In one embodiment, the covering is formed from paper. In one embodiment, the covering is formed from a plastic and paper laminate. In one embodiment, the plastic in the plastic and paper laminate comprises a polyalkylene such as polyethylene or polypropylene; and/or a polyester, such as polyethylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, the second, releasable portion of the releasable tab comprises a first attachment component. The portion of the covering comprises a second attachment component. The first attachment component and the second attachment component are configured to attach to each other such that the releasable tab forms the handle for carrying the package.

With such a configuration, the user is naturally motivated to securely attach the second, releasable portion of the releasable tab to a specific portion of the covering due to the placement of the second attachment component. This results in different users repeatedly creating the same, predetermined form of handle in a secure manner.

In one embodiment, the first attachment component and the second attachment component are configured to be reversibly or reusably attachable and removable to each other.

In one embodiment, the first attachment component is an element disposed on a layer of the covering.

In one embodiment, the second attachment component is an element disposed on a layer of the covering.

In one embodiment, the second attachment component is positioned on a generally flat area of a surface of the covering .

In one embodiment, the portion is a portion of the releasable tab. In one embodiment, the handle comprises a closed loop defined by the releasable tab. In one embodiment, the releasable tab comprises the second attachment component. In one embodiment, the first, fixed portion of the releasable tab comprises the second attachment component. In one embodiment, the first attachment component is disposed on the outer side of the releasable tab of the covering.

Throughout this disclosure, reference to the outer side of the releasable tab is a reference to the side of the releasable tab, before the releasable tab is released, which is opposite to the inner side of the covering which defines the internal space.

Throughout this disclosure, reference to the outer side of the covering is a reference to the side of the covering which is opposite to the inner side of the covering which defines the internal space.

With such a configuration, the orientation of the first attachment component allows for a natural, convenient-to-use handle to be formed between the first, fixed portion and the second, releasable portion of the releasable tab.

The second attachment component is formed on the outer side of the covering.

In one embodiment, the dispensing aperture is defined in a first surface of the covering. The second attachment component is defined in a second surface of the covering. The first surface and the second surface are different surfaces of the covering.

Throughout this disclosure, reference to a 'surface' of the covering is a reference to an area of the covering which has its perimeter delimited by edges of the three-dimensional shape of the covering. According to its usual meaning, the edges of the three-dimensional shape of the covering refer to the lines along which differently-oriented surfaces of the covering meet each other. With such a configuration, by having the dispensing aperture being defined in the first surface, the first, fixed portion of the releasable tab extends from the first surface of the covering. Therefore, as the second attachment component is defined on the second surface of the covering, the resulting handle is formed between different surfaces of the covering, which allows for the formation of a convenient-to-use handle for carrying the package.

In one embodiment, the handle is configured to extend from a first surface of the covering to a second surface of the covering, the first surface and the second surface being different surfaces of the covering.

In one embodiment, the first surface is opposite to the second surface.

Throughout this disclosure, reference to 'opposite' surfaces is a reference to surfaces which are opposed to each other along an axis of the covering.

As the first surface is opposite to the second surface, the resulting handle is formed between opposite surfaces of the covering, which allows for the formation of a convenient-to- use handle for carrying the package.

In one embodiment, the first surface and the second surface are opposed to each other along an axis of the covering which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the covering.

In one embodiment, the handle is configured to extend between opposite surfaces or ends of the covering.

In one embodiment, the covering is generally cuboid-shaped. In one embodiment, the first surface is generally oblong shaped. In one embodiment, the second surface is generally oblong-shaped . With such a configuration, the covering is particularly suited for carrying sheet products in the form of a stack of sheet products which define a generally cuboid shape.

In one embodiment, the covering is generally rectangular cuboid-shaped .

In one embodiment, the first surface is generally square shaped. In one embodiment, the second surface is generally square-shaped .

In one embodiment, the second attachment component is on the same end of the covering as the first, fixed portion of the releasable tab.

Throughout this disclosure, reference to an 'end' of the covering is a reference to a half of the covering along an axis of the covering. For example, an end of the covering may be a reference to a half of the covering along the longitudinal axis of the covering.

With such a configuration, as the first, fixed portion of the releasable tab and the second attachment component are located on the same end of the covering, the resulting handle is formed on the same end of the covering, which allows for the formation of a convenient-to-use handle for carrying the package especially whilst attempting to dispense the sheet products .

In one embodiment, the second attachment component and the first, fixed portion of the releasable tab are on the same distal-most end section of the covering.

In one embodiment, the handle is configured to extend between the same end of the covering. In one embodiment, the handle is configured to extend between the same distal-most end section of the covering.

In one embodiment, the first attachment component is a hook- type fastener and the second attachment component is a loop- type fastener. In one embodiment, the first attachment component is a loop-type fastener and the second attachment component is a hook-type fastener.

With such a configuration, the first component and the second component may be easily formed as parts of the covering whilst maintaining a low profile of the covering.

In one embodiment, the first attachment component and the second attachment component are corresponding snap-type button fasteners.

In one embodiment, the first attachment component comprises adhesive. Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, the second attachment component comprises adhesive.

In one embodiment, the adhesive of the first attachment component is covered by a protective removable tab. Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, the adhesive of the second attachment component is covered by a protective removable tab.

With such a configuration, the adhesives are protected until use, which ensures that the strength of the adhesive does not deteriorate before use.

In one embodiment, the releasable tab has an elongate shape defining a longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, the first, fixed portion and the second, releasable portion are opposite longitudinal ends of the releasable tab.

Throughout this disclosure, reference to a 'longitudinal end' of the releasable tab is a reference to a longitudinally outermost part of the releasable tab.

With such a configuration, the resulting handle is conveniently-shaped for carrying the package.

Moreover, with such a configuration, as the first, fixed portion and the second, releasable portion are opposite longitudinal ends of the releasable tab, the handle is formed using substantially the entire length of the releasable tab, which results in a convenient-to-use handle.

In one embodiment, the covering defines a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis of the releasable tab is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the covering.

Throughout this disclosure, reference to a 'longitudinal axis' of an element implies that the element is elongate, and, therefore, defines a longitudinal axis along the direction in which the element is elongate.

In one embodiment, the covering is generally elongate.

In one embodiment, the covering is generally cuboid-shaped. In one embodiment, the covering is generally rectangular cuboid-shaped. In one embodiment, the covering defines a longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment, the releasable tab is elongate and defines a longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, the longitudinal axis of the releasable tab and the longitudinal axis of the covering are generally parallel .

In one embodiment, the releasable tab extends across substantially an entire dimension of the covering. In one embodiment, the covering is cuboid-shaped with oblong sides. The dimension is the longitudinal length of the covering.

With such a configuration, as the releasable tab extends across substantially an entire dimension of the covering, the length of the resulting handle can be maximised so as to form a convenient-to-use handle.

In one embodiment, the releasable tab is configured to be released by the breaking of one or more lines of weakness in the covering. In one embodiment, the one or more lines of weakness are perforations in the covering.

With such a configuration, the releasable tab may be conveniently and reliably released from the covering by the user so as to form a well-defined, predetermined shape of the resulting handle which is comfortable to hold.

Throughout this disclosure, in certain embodiments, the one or more lines of weakness may be lines of reduced thickness in the covering.

Throughout this disclosure, in certain embodiments, the one or more lines of weakness are chemically weakened portions of the covering.

In one embodiment, the covering comprises one or more lines of weakness which substantially entirely surround the releasable tab apart from the first, fixed portion. In one embodiment, the one or more lines of weakness are perforations in the covering. With such a configuration, as the one or more lines of weakness substantially entirely surround the releasable tab apart from the first, fixed portion, the second, releasable portion of the releasable tab may be conveniently and reliably released from the covering by the user so as to form a well-defined, predetermined shape of the resulting handle which is comfortable to hold.

In one embodiment, the covering comprises one or more lines of weakness which substantially entirely surround the releasable tab apart from the first, fixed portion and a free, grippable section of the second, releasable portion. In one embodiment, the free, grippable section is not attached to the portions of the covering neighbouring the releasable tab. In one embodiment, the one or more lines of weakness are perforations in the covering.

With such a configuration, as the releasable tab has a free, grippable section, the user may conveniently release the releasable tab.

In one embodiment, the first, fixed end of the releasable tab coincides with an edge of the covering.

According to its usual meaning, an edge of the three- dimensional shape of the covering refers to a line along which differently-oriented surfaces of the covering meet each other .

With such a configuration, as the first, fixed end of the releasable tab coincides with an edge of the covering, the resulting handle forms from an edge of the covering which means that the resulting handle forms in a natural shape which is convenient for holding the package, especially when attempting to dispense the sheet products. In one embodiment, the covering is generally cuboid-shaped and the edge generally defines a right angle.

In one embodiment, the handle extends from an edge of the covering. In one embodiment, the handle extends from a generally flat area of a surface of the covering. In one embodiment, the handle extends between an edge of the covering and a generally flat area of a surface of the covering .

In one embodiment, the package further comprises a closure flap pivotally connected to the covering, wherein the closure flap is configured to close the dispensing aperture.

Throughout this disclosure, reference to the closure flap being 'connected' to the covering does not necessarily require that the closure flap and the covering are formed from separate pieces of material.

With such a configuration, the closure flap may be used to close the dispensing aperture once the releasable tab is released, which prevents the sheet products from being removed even when the handle is formed.

In one embodiment, the closure flap and the covering are integrally formed.

In one embodiment, the closure flap and the covering are formed from the same piece of material.

In one embodiment, the closure flap and the covering are formed from a continuous piece of material.

In one embodiment, the closure flap is configured to close the dispensing aperture by being inserted into the dispensing aperture such that the distal portion of the closure flap is disposed on the inside of the covering. With such a configuration, the dispensing aperture may be closed by the closure flap without the use of any adhesive. Therefore, with such a configuration, an improved package is provided which allows for reliable closure of the dispensing aperture even after a large number uses.

In one embodiment, the distal portion is configured to be disposed between the inside surface of the covering and the surface of the sheet products.

In one embodiment, the width of the distal portion of the closure flap tapers.

With such a configuration, the distal portion of the closure may be easily inserted into the dispensing aperture.

In one embodiment, before use, the closure flap is temporarily anchored to the covering so as to prevent pivoting of the closure flap. In one embodiment, the closure flap covers the dispensing aperture.

Throughout this disclosure, 'temporarily anchored' should be interpreted to mean that an element is removably attached to another element and may be easily removed by the end user using normal use of the product and without requiring any tools .

With such a configuration, as the closure flap is temporarily anchored to the covering, the closure flap may be arranged to lie flush with the covering such that the package has a low profile before use.

In one embodiment, the closure flap is temporarily anchored to the covering by one or more lines of weakness. In, one embodiment, the one or more lines of weakness are perforation lines . With such a configuration, the closure flap may be conveniently and reliably released from the covering by the user so as to form a well-defined, predetermined shape of the closure flap which results in a more reliable closure of the dispensing aperture.

In one embodiment, the closure flap is configured to pivot about an edge of the closure flap which is connected to the covering. The one or more lines of weakness are two lines of weakness which extend from the edge.

In one embodiment, before use, the distal portion of the closure flap is not connected to the covering.

With such a configuration, as the distal portion of the closure flap is not connected to the covering, the user may conveniently grip the closure flap so as to pivot the closure flap relative to the covering.

In one embodiment, the releasable tab, once released, is configured such that the second, releasable portion of the releasable tab is attachable to another portion of the covering such that the releasable tab lies substantially flush with the covering.

As used throughout this disclosure, the 'another portion' does not refer to the 'portion' to which the second, releasable portion is also attachable. With such a configuration, if a user does not require a handle, the releasable tab, once released, may be attached in a manner which does not interfere with the other, typical usage of the package.

In one embodiment, the another portion of the covering comprises a third attachment component. The first attachment component and the third attachment component are configured to attach to each other.

In one embodiment, the first attachment component and the third attachment component are configured reversibly and/or reusably attach to each other.

In one embodiment, the third attachment component may include any suitable fastener (s) attachable to the first attachment component. In one embodiment, the third attachment component includes a hook-type fastener, loop-type fastener, snap-type button fastener and/or adhesive. In one embodiment, the adhesive is covered by a protective removable tab.

In one embodiment, the releasable tab, once released, is configured such that the second, releasable portion of the releasable tab is attachable to another portion of the covering such that the releasable tab does not form a handle.

In one embodiment, the another portion of the covering is included in a surface of the covering which is not the surface of the covering which includes the releasable tab before release.

In one embodiment, the portion and the another portion are included in the same surface of the covering. In one embodiment, the portion and the another portion are located at opposite ends of the covering. In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a package for sheet products. The package comprises a covering configured to hold the sheet products. The covering defines a dispensing aperture. The package comprises a closure flap pivotally connected to the covering. The closure flap is configured to close the dispensing aperture.

With such a configuration, the closure flap may be used to close the dispensing aperture.

In one embodiment, the closure flap and the covering are integrally formed.

In one embodiment, the covering defines an internal space of the package. The internal space is configured to hold the sheet products within the internal space.

In one embodiment, the closure flap is configured to close the dispensing aperture by being inserted into the dispensing aperture such that the distal portion of the closure flap is disposed on the inside of the covering.

With such a configuration, the dispensing aperture may be closed by the closure flap without the use of any adhesive. Therefore, with such a configuration, an improved package is provided which allows for reliable closure of the dispensing aperture even after a large number uses.

In one embodiment, the distal portion is configured to be disposed between the inside surface of the covering and the surface of the sheet products. In one embodiment, the width of the distal portion of the closure flap tapers.

In one embodiment, the closure flap is temporarily anchored to the covering by one or more lines of weakness. In, one embodiment, the one or more lines of weakness are perforation lines .

With such a configuration, the closure flap may be conveniently and reliably released from the covering by the user so as to form a well-defined, predetermined shape of the closure flap which results in a more reliable closure of the dispensing aperture.

In one embodiment, the covering defines a releasable tab. The releasable tab is configured to be releasable from the covering so as to open the dispensing aperture in the covering .

The features of the second aspect of the present invention may be combined with any of the features of the first aspect of the present invention.

In a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembly comprising: any of the packages disclosed herein; and the sheet products, wherein the sheet products are disposed within the internal space.

Brief Description of the Drawings

For a better understanding of the present invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a package for sheet products;

Figure 2 shows the package in a configuration in which a closure flap of the package has been opened;

Figure 3 shows the package in a configuration in which a releasable tab of the package is in the process of being released;

Figure 4 shows the package in a configuration in which the releasable tab has been released to its full extent; Figure 5 shows the configuration of the package once a second, releasable portion of the releasable tab has been attached to a second attachment component of the covering of the package; and

Figure 6 show the package in a configuration in which the closure flap has been arranged to close a dispensing aperture of the package.

Detailed Description

Figure 1 shows a package 10 for sheet products (not shown) . In Figure 1, the package 10 is shown in an initial configuration .

The package 10 comprises a covering 11 which defines an internal space (not shown) of the package 10. The internal space of the package is configured to hold the sheet products therein. As shown in Figure 1, the covering 11 entirely covers and surrounds the sheet products.

In the embodiment of Figure 1, the sheet products are in the form of a stack of sheet products. The stack of sheet products defines a generally rectangular cuboid shape with six rectangular sides.

The inner sides of the covering 11 are configured to abut respective surfaces of the stack of sheet products. The covering 11 is therefore generally rectangular cuboid-shaped with six rectangular surfaces and defines a longitudinal axis. In Figure 1, only three of the six surfaces are shown, namely, top surface 11a, first side surface lib and second side surface 11c. However, the covering 11 further defines a bottom surface lid (see Figures 4 and 5) which is opposite to the top surface 11a, a third side surface lie (see Figures 4 and 5) and a fourth side surface (not shown) . As can be seen in Figure 1, the package 10 further comprises a closure flap 12. The closure flap 12 extends from the top surface 11a of the covering 11.

The closure flap 12 is pivotally connected at a proximal portion of the closure flap 12 to the top surface 11a of the covering 11 such that the closure flap 12 may be pivoted with respect to the top surface 11a of the covering 11.

The closure flap 12 defines a distal portion 12a which is opposite to the proximal portion of the closure flap 12.

In the initial configuration, the closure flap 12 is temporarily anchored to the covering 11 by closure flap perforations 12b. As can be seen in Figure 1, closure flap perforations 12b connect the ends of the closure flap 12 to the covering 11. The closure flap perforations 12b define two lines which extend from respective ends of the edge of the proximal portion of the closure flap 12 which is pivotally connected to the covering 11.

The edge of the distal portion 12a which is opposite to the pivotally connected edge of the proximal portion is not attached to the covering 11 in the embodiment shown in Figure 1. Accordingly, the user may easily separate the distal portion 12a of the closure flap 12 from the underlying covering 11 by inserting a finger therebetween.

Figure 2 shows the package 10 in a configuration in which the closure flap 12 has been opened.

Specifically, the closure flap 12 has been pivoted with respect to the covering 11 by movement of the closure flap 12 in the direction of the arrows 0. This movement results in the breaking of the closure flap perforations 12b such that the closure flap 12 is freely pivotable with respect to the covering 11 about the edge of the proximal portion which is connected to the covering 11. The edge of the proximal portion which is connected to the covering 11 remains permanently connected to the covering 11.

Movement of the closure flap 12 to the configuration shown in Figure 2 reveals the underlying area of the covering 11. As can be seen in Figure 2, the underlying area of the covering 11 defines a releasable tab 13.

The releasable tab 13 is defined in the top surface 11a of the covering 11. The releasable tab 13 is entirely covered by the closure flap 12 when the closure flap 12 is temporarily anchored to the covering 11 (i.e. in the initial configuration of the package) .

In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the releasable tab 13 is in the form of an elongate strip which has its longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis defined by the covering 11.

The releasable tab 13 extends substantially across the entire length of the covering 11, and, in particular, the top surface 11a of the covering 11.

In some embodiments, the releasable tab 13 and the surrounding portion of the top surface 11a are formed from the same piece of material.

The releasable tab 13 is configured to be only partially releasable from the rest of the covering 11. Specifically, the releasable tab 13 has a first, fixed portion 13a which is configured to remain fixed to the rest of the covering 11. In other words, the first, fixed portion 13a is permanently or securely fixed to the rest of the covering 11. As shown in Figure 2, the first, fixed portion 13a is one longitudinally outermost section of the releasable tab 13 (i.e. one longitudinal end of the releasable tab 13) . The releasable tab 13 also has a second, releasable portion 13b which is configured to be released from the rest of the covering 11 so as to partially release the releasable tab 13.

In the configuration shown in Figure 2, releasable tab perforations 13c temporarily connect the second, releasable tab 13b to the rest of the top surface 11a of the covering 11. In this configuration, the releasable tab 13 is substantially prevented from separating from the rest of the covering 11 such that the releasable tab 13b lies in the same plane as the rest of the top surface 11a.

Referring to Figure 2, the releasable tab perforations 13c substantially entirely surround the releasable tab 13 apart from the first, fixed portion 13a and a free, grippable section of the second, releasable portion 13b. As shown in Figure 2, the free, grippable section is not connected to the rest of the top surface 11a of the covering 11 and may be used by the user to release the releasable tab 13. In Figure 2, the free, grippable section is the longitudinally outermost section of the releasable tab 13 opposite to the first, fixed portion 13a (i.e. the longitudinal end of the releasable tab 13 opposite to the first, fixed portion 13a) . The releasable tab 13 may be only partially releasable from the covering 11 by the breaking of the releasable tab perforations 13c. However, even upon releasing of the releasable tab 13, the releasable tab 13 remains fixed to the rest of the covering 11 at the first, fixed portion 13a.

The releasable tab 13 comprises a first attachment component 13b ' . The first attachment component 13b ' is on the outer side of the covering 11. The first attachment component 13b ' may be located in the second, releasable portion 13b, and, optionally, in the free, grippable section of the releasable tab 13. The first attachment component 13b may include any suitable fastener (s), such as a hook-type fastener, loop-type fastener, snap-type button fastener and/or adhesive, where the adhesive may optionally be covered by a protective removable tab.

Figure 3 shows the package 10 in a configuration in which the releasable tab 13 is in the process of being released.

Specifically, the releasable tab 13 is released by movement of the releasable tab 13 in the direction shown by the arrow R. In the configuration shown in Figure 3, only a portion of the releasable tab perforations 13c have been broken, however, further movement in the direction shown by the arrow R will result in all of the releasable tab perforations 13c being broken and the releasable tab 13 being released to its full extent, this full extent still having the first, fixed portion 13a remaining fixed to the rest of the covering 11 as described above.

The release of the releasable tab 13 opens a dispensing aperture 14 in the top surface 11a of the covering 11. The dispensing aperture 14 is configured to allow dispensing of the sheet products from the package 10. For example, the dispensing aperture 14 is configured to allow a user to grip a top sheet of the stack of sheet products and remove the top sheet from the package 10.

As can be seen in Figure 3, the shape of the dispensing aperture 14 directly corresponds to the shape of the releasable tab 13 which is released from the rest of the covering 11.

The dispensing aperture 14 is in the form of an elongate strip which has its longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis defined by the covering 11. The dispensing aperture 14 extends substantially across the entire length of the covering 11, and, in particular, the top surface 11a of the covering 11.

Figure 4 shows the package 10 in a configuration in which the releasable tab 13 has been released to its full extent. In Figure 4, the package 10 has been rotated 180° about its longitudinal axis with respect to orientation shown in Figures 1 to 3. In particular, as noted above, Figure 4 shows the bottom surface lid of the covering 11.

As shown in Figure 4, the bottom surface lid comprises a second attachment component 15. The second attachment component 15 is disposed on a generally flat area of the bottom surface lid.

The second attachment component 15 may include any suitable fastener (s) attachable to the first attachment component 13b' , such as a hook-type fastener, loop-type fastener, snap- type button fastener and/or adhesive, where the adhesive may optionally be covered by a protective removable tab.

The first attachment component 13b' (not visible in Figure 4) and the second attachment component 15 are configured to attach to each other such that the second, releasable portion 13b is connectable to the bottom surface lid. Specifically, once the releasable tab 13 has been released as in the configuration shown in Figure 4, the first attachment component 13b may be attached to the second attachment component 15 by pressing along the direction shown by the arrow A.

Figure 5 shows the configuration of the package 10 once the second, releasable portion 13b of the releasable tab 13 has been attached to the second attachment component 15 of the covering 11. In this configuration, the releasable tab 13 forms a handle H between the first, fixed portion 13a and the second, releasable portion 13b. The handle H is for carrying the package 10. Specifically, the handle H is configured to be grasped by the user. The handle H is configured to have such a strength (for example, at the connection between the second, releasable portion 13b and the second attachment component 15) so that it is able to carry the entire weight of the package including the sheet products.

The handle H extends between the top surface 11a and the bottom surface lid and defines an arc-like shape therebetween .

Figure 6 show the package 10 in a configuration in which the closure flap 12 has been arranged to close the dispensing aperture 14. The orientation of the package 10 shown in Figure 6 is the same orientation of the package 10 shown in each of Figures 1 to 3.

In the configuration shown in Figure 6, by movement of the closure flap 12 in the manner shown by the arrows C, the distal portion 12a of the closure flap 12 has been inserted into the dispensing opening 14 such that the distal portion 12a of the closure flap 12 is disposed on the inside of the covering 11. In this configuration, the distal portion 12a abuts the inner side of the covering 11. Specifically, the distal portion 12a of the closure flap 12 is disposed between the inner side of the covering 11 and the top surface of the stack of sheet products.

In the configuration shown in Figure 6, the closure flap 12 closes the dispensing aperture 14. The closure flap 12 may be translated in a manner opposite to the manner shown by the arrows C so as to open/expose the dispensing aperture 14. As can be seen in Figure 6, even after closure of the closure flap 12, the handle H is still accessible such that the package 10 may be carried by the user whilst the closure flap 12 is closed.

Although the above explanation is considered to fully clarify how the present invention may straightforwardly be put into effect by those skilled in the art, it is to be regarded as purely exemplary.

For example, in the above embodiment described in relation to Figures 1 to 6, the package comprises both the features relating to the closure flap 12 and the releasable tab 13 to form a handle H. However, these features of the package may be taken independently. For example, the closure flap 12 is not essential in the first aspect of the present invention, whereas the releasable tab 13 to form a handle H is not essential in the second aspect of the present invention.

Furthermore, even though in the above, the handle H extends between the top surface 11a and the bottom surface lid, other configurations are contemplated. For example, the handle H may be configured to extend between the top surface 11a and any one of the side surfaces (i.e. first side surface lib, second side surface 11c, third side surface lie or fourth side surface) . For example, the second attachment component may be disposed on any one of the side surfaces instead of the bottom surface lid.

As a further example, one embodiment, the releasable tab 13 comprises the second attachment component 15. In one embodiment, the handle H comprises a closed loop defined by the releasable tab 13 itself. In one embodiment, the first, fixed portion 13a of the releasable tab comprises the second attachment component 15. In one embodiment, the first attachment component is configured to attach to the releasable tab, and, optionally, in particular, the first, fixed portion of the releasable tab.

Additionally, even though in the above, the package 10 has specific first and second attachment components 13b' , 15, such specific elements are not required so long as the second, releasable portion of the releasable tab is attachable by any means to a portion of the covering such that the releasable tab forms a handle between the first, fixed portion and the second, releasable portion for carrying the package.

Furthermore, in Figures 1 to 6, the package 10 is configured to hold a stack of sheet products, however, other shapes of the package are contemplated for holding other forms of sheet products, for example, a roll of sheet product.

All of the above are fully within the scope of the present invention, and are considered to form the basis for alternative embodiments in which one or more combinations of the above-described features are applied, without limitation to the specific combinations disclosed above.

In light of this, there will be many alternatives which implement the teaching of the present invention. It is expected that one skilled in the art will be able to modify and adapt the above disclosure to suite its own circumstances and requirements within the scope of the present invention, while retaining some or all technical effects of the same, either disclosed or derivable from the above, in light of his common general knowledge in this art. All such equivalents, modifications or adaptations fall within the scope of the invention hereby defined and claimed.

Claims

CLAIMS :

1. A package for sheet products, comprising:

a covering which defines an internal space of the package, the internal space being configured to hold the sheet products within the internal space, wherein:

the covering defines a releasable tab;

the releasable tab is configured to be only partially releasable from the covering so as to open a dispensing aperture in the covering, the dispensing aperture configured to allow dispensing of the sheet products from the package;

the releasable tab, once released, is configured such that a first, fixed portion of the releasable tab remains fixed to the covering; and

the releasable tab, once released, is configured such that a second, releasable portion of the releasable tab is attachable to a portion of the covering such that the releasable tab forms a handle between the first, fixed portion and the second, releasable portion for carrying the package.

2. The package of Claim 1, wherein the second, releasable portion of the releasable tab comprises a first attachment component, wherein the portion of the covering comprises a second attachment component, and wherein the first attachment component and the second attachment component are configured to attach to each other such that the releasable tab forms the handle for carrying the package.

3. The package of Claim 2, wherein the first attachment component is disposed on the outer side of the releasable tab of the covering.

4. The package of Claim 2 or 3, wherein the dispensing aperture is defined in a first surface of the covering, and wherein the second attachment component is defined in a second surface of the covering, the first surface and the second surface being different surfaces of the covering.

5. The package of Claim 4, wherein the first surface is opposite to the second surface.

6. The package of Claim 5, wherein the covering is generally cuboid-shaped, and, optionally, wherein the first surface is generally oblong-shaped and wherein the second surface is generally oblong-shaped.

7. The package of any one of Claims 2 to 6, wherein the second attachment component is on the same end of the covering as the first, fixed portion of the releasable tab.

8. The package of any one of Claims 2 to 7, wherein the first attachment component is a hook-type fastener and the second attachment component is a loop-type fastener, or wherein the first attachment component is a loop-type fastener and the second attachment component is a hook-type fastener .

9. The package of any one of Claims 2 to 7, wherein the first attachment component and the second attachment component are corresponding snap-type button fasteners.

10. The package of any one of Claims 2 to 9, wherein the first attachment component and/or the second attachment component comprises adhesive.

11. The package of Claim 10, wherein the adhesive of the first attachment component and/or the adhesive of the second attachment component is covered by a protective removable tab .

12. The package of any preceding claim, wherein the releasable tab has an elongate shape defining a longitudinal axis, and, optionally, wherein the first, fixed portion and the second, releasable portion are opposite longitudinal ends of the releasable tab.

13. The package of Claim 12, wherein the covering defines a longitudinal axis, and wherein the longitudinal axis of the releasable tab is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the covering .

14. The package of any preceding claim, wherein the releasable tab extends across substantially an entire dimension of the covering, and, optionally: wherein the covering is cuboid-shaped with oblong sides, and wherein the dimension is the longitudinal length of the covering.

15. The package of any preceding claim, wherein the releasable tab is configured to be released by the breaking of one or more lines of weakness in the covering, and, optionally, wherein the one or more lines of weakness are perforations in the covering.

16. The package of any preceding claim, wherein the covering comprises one or more lines of weakness which substantially entirely surround the releasable tab apart from the first, fixed portion, and, optionally, wherein the one or more lines of weakness are perforations in the covering.

17. The package of any one of Claims 1 to 15, wherein the covering comprises one or more lines of weakness which substantially entirely surround the releasable tab apart from the first, fixed portion and a free, grippable section of the second, releasable portion, and, optionally: wherein the free, grippable section is not attached to the portions of the covering neighbouring the releasable tab; and/or wherein the one or more lines of weakness are perforations in the covering .

18. The package of any preceding claim, wherein the first, fixed end of the releasable tab coincides with an edge of the covering .

19. The package of any preceding claim, further comprising a closure flap pivotally connected to the covering, wherein the closure flap is configured to close the dispensing aperture.

20. The package of Claim 19, wherein the closure flap is configured to close the dispensing aperture by being inserted into the dispensing aperture such that the distal portion of the closure flap is disposed on the inside of the covering.

21. The package of Claim 20, wherein the width of the distal portion of the closure flap tapers.

22. The package of Claim 19, 20 or 21, wherein, before use, the closure flap is temporarily anchored to the covering so as to prevent pivoting of the closure flap, and, optionally, wherein the closure flap covers the dispensing aperture.

23. The package of Claim 22, wherein the closure flap is temporarily anchored to the covering by one or more lines of weakness, and, optionally, wherein the one or more lines of weakness are perforation lines.

24. The package of Claim 22 or 23, wherein the closure flap is configured to pivot about an edge of the closure flap which is connected to the covering, and wherein the one or more lines of weakness are two lines of weakness which extend from the edge.

25. The package of any one of Claims 22 to 24, wherein, before use, the distal portion of the closure flap is not connected to the covering.

26. The package of any preceding claim, wherein the releasable tab, once released, is configured such that the second, releasable portion of the releasable tab is attachable to another portion of the covering such that the releasable tab lies substantially flush with the covering.