GB2547098A

GB2547098A - Utensil or cutlery item

Info

Publication number: GB2547098A
Application number: GB1700295.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Vaiksaar Michael
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-01-11
Filing date: 2017-01-09
Publication date: 2017-08-09
Anticipated expiration: 2037-01-09
Also published as: GB201700295D0; GB2547098B

Abstract

A utensil or cutlery item 2 is formed from a blank of material 4 which includes a first portion 6 and a second portion 8, with at least one fold line 10 separating said portions. The first portion forms a cutlery piece 18 in use. The second portion at least partially covers the first portion prior to first use of the utensil. The utensil is initially supplied in a flat and closed configuration (fig 4, not shown) and is reconfigured into a utensil by the user (fig 6). The cutlery piece may be a scoop, spoon, knife or fork. The blank may include a third portion 12 and in the closed configuration the first portion may be positioned between the second and third portions. The utensil blank may be part of a larger blank for packaging (fig 18, not shown) and may be detachable from the packaging portions via frangible, perforated or weakened portions (108, 120, fig 18, not shown). The device finds particular application in the fast-food industry and an advantage of the closed configuration (fig 4, not shown) is the eating portion remains clean.

Description

Utensil or Cutlery Item

This invention relates to a utensil or cutlery item, to a blank for forming said utensil or cutlery item, to a method of forming said utensil or cutlery item, and/or to a method of using said utensil or cutlery item.

Although the following description refers almost exclusively to a utensil or cutlery item that is typically a single use, disposable item, it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that utensil or cutlery item need not be disposable and could be reused a number of times if required.

It is known to provide disposable cutlery for use with take away food or “food on the go” to allow a user to eat the food when not in a location where conventional cutlery is available and/or to allow a user to easily dispose of all the packaging and cutlery after food has been consumed. An example of conventional disposable cutlery is plastic knives, forks and spoons. However, the problem with plastic cutlery is that it is relatively expensive to produce. It is not biodegradable and so is not environmentally friendly. Such cutlery is often provided loose in a container for selection by a user in a retail outlet or restaurant, thereby exposing the cutlery to the air and/or to contact by other user’s hands during selection. Thus, the cutlery is not necessarily clean or sterile. The cutlery could be provided in additional plastic packaging to seal the same, but this increases the time, cost and materials for producing the same, and increases the amount of litter that needs to be disposed of after use.

In an attempt to overcome some of the abovementioned problems, it is known to provide eating utensils that are formed from cardboard. The cardboard is folded to form a scoop like device to allow a user to scoop food up with the same. The resulting utensil is biodegradeable and therefore more environmentally friendly than plastic. It is also cheaper to manufacture and produce. However, the eating utensil is not provided in any outer packaging and therefore is still exposed to the air and environmental conditions during and after manufacture. The eating utensils are also directly contactable by different users when a utensil is being selected from a container, thus the eating utensils are not sterile and may not be clean.

It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide a utensil or cutlery item that overcomes the abovementioned problems. >

It is a further aim of the present invention to provide a method of using a utensil or cutlery item that overcomes the abovementioned problems.

It is a yet further aim of the present invention to provide a blank for forming a utensil or cutlery item that overcomes the abovementioned problems.

It is a yet further aim of the present invention to provide a method of forming a utensil or cutlery item from a blank that overcomes the abovementioned problems.

It is a yet further aim of the present invention to provide packaging including a utensil or cutlery item therein, and a method of using said packaging.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a utensil or cutlery item, said utensil or cutlery item formed from a blank of material having first and at least second portions with at least one fold line separating said portions, the first portion forming a utensil or cutlery piece in use, and the at least second portion providing a cover for at least partially covering said first portion prior to at least first use of the utensil or cutlery piece.

Thus, the present invention provides a cutlery or utensil item that has a cover that covers at least part of a surface of the utensil or cutlery piece prior to at least the first use of the utensil or cutlery item. This improves the sterility and/or cleanliness of the utensil or cutlery piece. The ability to form the utensil or cutlery item from a blank reduces the cost of producing the same. Construction of the utensil or cutlery item is quick and easy and does not require any special tools. In addition, the blank provides a large surface area to provide printed matter on the same, such as for example for marketing purposes, providing instructions on how to form and/or use the cutlery item and/or the like.

Preferably the second portion and/or further portion is arranged to be movable or foldable relative to said first portion at least when use of the first portion is first required.

Preferably the first portion is arranged to be foldably movable relative to the at least second portion along the fold line between the first and second portions.

Preferably the blank of material is movable from an unassembled condtion and/or a flat, planar, substantially flat or substantially planar condition to an assembled condition in use. With the utensil or cutlery item in an assembled condition, it can be in the form of a closed package assembled condition wherein one or more portions of the blank are folded in such a manner that the first portion and/or the utensil or cutlery piece is at least partially covered or partially or wholly enclosed by the at least second portion, or it can be in the form of an assembled and erect or open package condition wherein one or more portions, or parts of portions, of the blank are folded in such a manner that at least part of first portion and/or the utensil or cutlery piece is moved clear of or is unobstructed by the at least second portion.

It is to be noted that the portions of the blank can be referred to as panels of blank if required.

Preferably the blank can be moved from or between the closed package assembled condition to/and the assembled, erect or open package condition.

Preferably the closed package assembled condition is a flat, planar, substantially flat or substantially planar condition.

With the item in the closed package assembled condition, the blank is in a first folded configuration.

Preferably the assembled and erect or open package condition provides a three dimensional structure, at least part of which forms a utensil or cutlery piece.

With the item in the assembled and erect or open package condition, the blank is in a second folded configuration.

Preferably the first folded configuration is different to the second folded configuration.

Preferably one or more or all the portions of the blank are movable by pivoting one or more of the blank portions along one or more fold lines formed in the blank to form the required structures, configurations or conditions of the item.

The blank can be formed from any or any combination of portions to provide the required structure. The portions can be the same size, shape and/or design or one or more of the portions can be of a different size, shape and/or design.

Preferably at least part of the first and/or at least second portions are capable of relative movement in use to allow at least the second portion to be moved from the assembled and closed package condition, to the assembled and erect or open package condition. Preferably the movement is about the fold line between the first and second portions.

Preferably the first portion includes one or more fold lines to allow one or more parts of the first portion to be folded or flexed in use relative to one or more other parts of the first portion to shape the same into a utensil or cutlery piece in use. Preferably these one or more fold lines are in addition to the at least one fold line between the first and second portions.

Preferably the utensil or cutlery piece has a three dimensional form when the item is in the assembled and erect or open package condition. However, the utensil or cutlery piece could have a two dimensional form when the item is in the assembled and erect condition.

In one embodiment, at least one part of the first portion can be folded or flexed relative to at least one other part of the first portion in use to move the same from a flat, planar, substantially flat or substantially planar form, to an erect, non-flat or non-planar form. The first portion could be moved in reverse, once erect, to return the first portion to the flat, planar, substantially flat or substantially planar form if required. This may be advantageous to allow the item to be used again and/or to aid in disposing of the item after use.

In a preferred embodiment the first portion is folded and/or flexed to form a scoop like or spoon like piece in use when in the assembled and erect or open package condition.

Preferably the first portion can be used to form or act as a spoon, knife, fork piece and/or the like when in use. Preferably the first portion, or at least part of the first portion, is shaped in such a manner to form the shape of a spoon, knife, fork piece and/or the like in use.

In one embodiment the first portion has a Y-shaped or substantially Y-shaped, T-shaped or substantially T-shaped fold line defined therein to allow the portion to be folded in such a manner to form a utensil or cutlery piece, a spoon piece, a fork piece and/or the like in use.

In one embodiment the first portion has a fold line provided at an acute, perpendicular or substantially perpendicular angle to one of its sides and/or to the fold line between the first and second portions, to allow the first portion to form a utensil or cutlery piece, a knife and/or the like.

Preferably the first portion includes a first fold line located along an interior, central or middle part of the first portion from a first end of the first portion to a point between the first end and a second opposite end of the first portion, the first fold line having a first end adjacent the first end of the first portion and a second end at the point between the first and second ends of the first portion.

Preferably a second fold line is located from said first fold line second end to or towards a peripheral edge or side of the first portion, and a third fold line is located from said first fold line second end to or towards another peripheral edge or side of the first portion.

Preferably the ends of the second and third fold lines adjacent or towards said peripheral edge of the first portion are a spaced distance apart from each other, and in one example are opposite or substantially opposite to each other.

Preferably the first fold line of the first portion is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the fold line between the first and second portions of the item.

In one embodiment the first portion includes at least one, and preferably a plurality, of frangible, perforated or weakened sections to allow at least one section or part of the first portion to be separated and/or broken off from at least one other section or part of the first portion in use. The frangible, perforated or weakened sections allow the sections of the first portion to be broken away or torn from each other. In this way, any adhesive or sealant that may have been used to adhere the at least second portion to the first portion prior to use of the utensil or cutlery item can be removed or moved clear of the utensil piece prior to first use of the utensil or cutlery item. The frangible, perforated or weakened sections allow the required shape of a utensil piece to be formed in one example in the first portion in use.

In one embodiment the second and/or further portions can include at least one frangible, perforated or weakened sections to allow the cutlery or utensil piece to be formed in use.

Preferably the frangible, perforated or weakened sections are arranged such that they define the outer shape, or at least part of the outer shape, of the cutlery or utensil piece formed by the first portion in use.

Preferably the one or more frangible, perforated or weakened sections are arranged such that one or more peripheral sections of the first portion can be completely or partially removed or moved clear from one or more interior sections of the first portion during erection of the cutlery or utensil item in use (i.e. when being moved from the assembled and closed package condition to the erect and assembled or open package condition.).

Preferably the one or more interior sections of the first portion are used to form the utensil or cutlery piece in use. The one or more peripheral sections of the first portion can be either discarded or folded back from the one or more interior sections in use.

In one embodiment the peripheral or outermost edge of the first portion defines the outer shape of at least part of the utensil or cutlery piece, and further preferably the “working part”, spoon or scoop portion of the utensil, in use.

In one embodiment the first portion includes at least one fold line to allow at least one section of the first portion of the blank to be folded back onto at least a second section of the first portion to form the closed and assembled condition.

In one embodiment one or more peripheral sections of the first portion are folded back to overlap with, or at least partially overlap with, the at least second portion when the cutlery or utensil item is in the assembled and erect or open package condition.

Preferably the second portion is arranged so as to cover at least a surface of an interior portion of the first portion that is to be used as the utensil piece in use when in the closed and assembled condition.

Preferably the surface of the first portion being covered by a surface of the at least second portion is opposite the same when the first portion is folded along the fold line between the first and second portions.

Preferably at least part of the at least second portion, and further preferably a whole or substantially a whole of the at least second portion, can be used as a handle or gripping element to allow a user to manipulate the first portion and/or the utensil or cutlery piece of the first portion in use when in the assembled and erect or open package condition.

Preferably the second portion includes at least one fold line provided along at least part of an interior surface of the second portion to allow the second portion to be at least partially folded or flexed to form the handle or gripping element when the item is in the assembled and erect or open package condition.

In one embodiment the second portion interior fold line is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the fold line between the first and second portions.

In one embodiment the second portion interior fold line is at an acute angle to the fold line between the first and second portions.

In one embodiment the second portion fold line is aligned, substantially aligned, co-axial, linear and/or substantially linear with a fold line in the interior of the first portion and/or in the interior of a third or further portion. Further preferably the second fold line is aligned, substantially aligned, co-axial, linear and/or substantially linear with the first fold line of a Y-shaped or T-shaped or substantially Y-shaped or substantially T-shaped fold of the first portion.

In one embodiment the blank and/or second portion forms part of an item of packaging, such as for example part of an outer packaging for an object (different to the utensil or cutlery item), or the item of packaging could be in the form of a carton, tray, container and/or the like. The object could for example be in the form of a container, carton, tray and/or the like. The object could be used to carry a food item that the utensil or cutlery may be used with in use.

The object could be in the form of a pasta pot, an ice cream container, a yoghurt pot, a snack pot and/or the like.

The blank for the cutlery or utensil item can be integral with the blank for the item of packaging or it can be joined to the same.

In one example, the item of outer packaging is in the form of a sleeve member for location on or around an object in use. The second portion and/or item blank can form part of and/or be integral with the sleeve member.

Preferably one or more frangible, perforated or weakened sections are provided in the item of packaging. The one or more frangible or weakened sections typically define the utensil or cutlery item blank and/or at least one portion of the utensil or cutlery item blank therebetween. As such, the packaging can be broken or torn along the one or more frangible or weakened sections to remove the utensil or cutlery item blank from the packaging in use.

In one embodiment the first portion is located between the second portion and/or the item of packaging and the object to which the packaging is attached to in use prior to separation of the item blank from the packaging, prior to separation of the packaging from the object and/or prior to use of the object. Thus, the object itself, the packaging and/or the at least second portion of the item blank act to cover and/or seal the first portion of the item blank prior to use.

Preferably the item of packaging is formed from a blank of material comprising two or more portions or panels separated by one or more fold lines. One or more portions or panels of the packaging blank are movable by moving the portions relative to their fold lines to form a constructed item of packaging in use.

Preferably the first portion of the cutlery or utensil item extends outwardly from a peripheral edge of the packaging blank and/or second portion.

Preferably the fold line between the first and second portions is continuous and/or aligned with a peripheral edge of the packaging blank.

In one embodiment the utensil or cutlery item includes a first portion, a second portion and at least a third portion.

In one embodiment a fold line is provided between the first and second portions and between the first and third portions.

In one embodiment a fold line is provided between the first and second portions and between the second and third portions.

Preferably the utensil or cutlery item blank can be folded in such a manner that the first portion is located between at least the second and third portions when in the closed and assembled condition. Thus, in one embodiment the second and third portions can act as covers to partially or wholly enclose the first portion prior to first use of the item.

In one embodiment the first, second and at least third portions are folded in a concertina manner or Z-like manner in order to locate the first portion between the second and the at least third portions and/or to form the assembled and closed package condition.

In one embodiment the first and at least second portions are provided in an end to end manner to form an elongated blank structure.

In one embodiment the fold line between the first and third portion includes one or more frangible or weakened sections to allow the third portion to be removed from the first portion prior to use of the utensil or cutlery item.

In one embodiment the third portion is folded in such a manner relative to at least part of the first portionso as to move the same clear of the utensil or cutlery piece of the first portion during use of the utensil or cutlery item when in the assembled, erect or open package condition.

In one embodiment the third portion is moved into overlapping arrangement with the second portion and/or the remaining part of the first portion (not used to form the utensil or cutlery piece) when in the assembled and erect or open package condition.

In one embodiment at least part of the third portion is moved into or is in overlapping engagement with at least part of the first portion when the item is in the assembled and closed package condition and/or in the assembled, erect or open package condition. Preferably in the latter case this provides the part of the first portion that is formed into the cutlery or utensil piece with greater strength as it is formed from at least two overlapping portions of the blank material.

Preferably the at least part of the first portion is engaged with the at least part of the third portion via attachment means or an attachment mechanism.

Preferably the at least part of the first portion that is engaged with the at least part of the third portion when in the assembled, erect or open package condition is of the same or substantially the same shape, size and/or design.

Preferably the fold line between two adjacent portions is parallel or substantially parallel to the fold line between at least one of the portions and a further different adjacent portion, or two other adjacent portions.

In one embodiment the fold line between the first and second portions is parallel or substantially parallel to the fold line between the first and third portions.

In one embodiment the fold line between the first and second portions is parallel or substantially parallel to the fold line between the second and third portions.

In one embodiment an attachment means or mechanism is provided to allow any or any combination of the item or blank portions to be attached together prior to use to form the closed and assembled conditions and/or to form the erect and assembled or open package condition.

Preferably an attachment means or mechanism can be used to form the item of packaging in an assembled condition.

The attachment means could include any or any combination of heat sealing, welding, adhesive, one or more clips, inter-engaging members and/or the like.

In one embodiment at least part of the first portion is attached or adhered to at least part of the second portion.

In one embodiment at least part of the third portion is attached or adhered to at least part of the first portion and/or second portion. This attachment or adhesion is separate to and in addition to the fold lines joining the first portion, second portion and/or third portion in use.

Preferably the adhesive used is of such strength that the portions which are adhered together using the adhesive can be separated relatively easily by a user applying a relatively low separating force to the same.

Preferably a relatively low tack adhesive is used to allow separation of the portions when moving the items from the closed, assembled condition to the assembled, erect or open package condition.

The adhesive could be applied at a printing stage of the item and/or after the item blank has been cut from the blank material and prior to forming the closed, assembled condition.

In one embodiment fourth and/or further portions can be provided in the blank. Preferably the fourth and/or further portions can form part of the “working part” of the item and/or can form part of the handle or gripping element of the item when in the erect, assembled or open package condition.

Preferably the blank of material is formed from a flexible or substantially flexible material.

Preferably the blank of material is formed from a sheet material or sheet like material.

Preferably the blank of material is flat, planar or substantially flat or substantially planar prior to erection of the same into the item.

Preferably the blank of material is formed from or includes any or any combination of paper, card, cardboard, board, plastic, rubber, laminated material, corrugated material and/or the like.

Preferably the blank of material includes a waterproof or water resistant coating, layer and/or the like on the same. This helps to protect the material from damage when in contact with a food item, moisture, a user’s saliva and/or the like.

In one embodiment the utensil or cutlery item is disposable and further preferably is provided for single use only.

In one embodiment the utensil or cutlery item can be reused a number of times.

Preferably printed matter, data, one or more symbols, letters, numbers, patterns, designs and/or the like can be provided on the material to provide instructions to the user on how to use the item, marketing information and/or the like.

The blank can be cut to shape as required by any suitable cutting means.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of using a utensil or cutlery item, said method including the steps of taking a blank of material having first and at least second portions with at least one fold line separating said portions, moving the first and/or the second portions such that the first portion forms a utensil or cutlery piece in use, and that at least second item forms a cover for at least partially covering said first portion prior to at least first use of the utensil or cutlery piece.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a blank for forming a utensil or cutlery item.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of forming a utensil or cutlery item from a blank.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided packaging including a utensil or cutlery item.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a utensil or cutlery item, said utensil or cutlery item formed from a blank of material having two or more walls, at least one of the walls forming a cutlery or utensil piece in use and at least one other wall providing a cover to at least partially cover or enclose the cutlery or utensil piece when not in use.

Preferably the cutlery or utensil piece is enclosed, wholly or partially between the at least one other wall of the blank when constructed.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the following figures, wherein:

Figures la and lb show a front and rear view of a blank for a cutlery item prior to assembly respectively according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 shows a front view of a blank for a cutlery item prior to assembly according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3 shows how the blank in figures la and lb is folded to form an assembled and closed condition prior to first use;

Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the cutlery item in figure 3 when in an assembled and closed condition prior to first use;

Figure 5 shows how the cutlery item in figure 4 is moved from the assembled and closed condition to an assembled and erect condition in use;

Figure 6 shows the finished assembled and erect cutlery item of figure 5;

Figures 7a and 7b show a front and rear view of a blank for a cutlery item prior to assembly respectively according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 8 shows how the blank in figures 7a and 7b is folded to form an assembled and closed condition prior to first use;

Figure 9 shows a perspective view of the cutlery item in figure 8 when in an assembled and closed condition prior to first use;

Figure 10 shows how the cutlery item in figure 9 is moved from the assembled and closed condition to an open, assembled and partially erect condition;

Figure 11 shows how the cutlery item in figure 10 is moved from the partially condition to a further partially erect condition;

Figure 12 shows the finished cutlery item of figure 11 in the erect, assembled and ready to use position;

Figures 13a and 13b show a front and rear view of a blank for a cutlery item prior to assembly respectively according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 14 shows how the blank in figures 13a and 13b is folded to form an assembled and closed condition prior to first use;

Figure 15 shows a perspective view of the cutlery item in figure 14 when in an assembled and closed condition prior to first use;

Figures 16a and 16b show a front and rear view of a blank for a cutlery item forming part of outer packaging of an object prior to assembly respectively according to a yet further embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 17 shows how the blank in figures 16a and 16b is folded to form a partially assembled and closed condition prior to application to the object;

Figure 18 shows the outer packaging of figure 17 as applied to the object;

Figure 19 shows how the cutlery item in figure 18 is removed from the object;

Figure 20 shows how the cutlery item in figure 19 is moved from a closed assembled condition to an open, assembled condition;

Figure 21 shows the finished cutlery item of figure 20 in the erect, assembled and ready to use position;

Figure 22 shows a blank for forming a cutlery item in the form of a fork according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 23 shows a blank for forming a cutlery item in the form of a knife according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 24 shows the knife of figure 23 in an erect, assembled and ready to use position;

Figures 25a and 25b show a front view and a rear view of a blank for the cutlery item in figures la and lb with the lines of adhesive shown according to one embodiment;

Figure 26 is a blank for a cutlery item forming part of outer packaging in the form of a sleeve for an object according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 27 shows the blank of figure 26 being moved to a closed and assembled position;

Figure 28 shows the sleeve of figure 27 with the cutlery item in the closed and assembled position;

Figure 29 shows the sleeve of Figure 28 as applied to an object;

Figure 30 shows how the cutlery item is removed from the sleeve in figure 29;

Figure 31 shows how the cutlery item is moved from the closed and assembled condition to an open, assembled condition;

Figure 32 shows the finished cutlery item in an assembled and erect condition;

Figure 33 is a front view of a blank according to an embodiment of the present invention prior to assembly;

Figures 34-37 show the different stages of assembly of the blank to form the assembled closed condition;

Figures 38-39 show the assembled and partially opened/erect position and the assembled and fully opened/erect condition respectively; and

Figures 40a-40e show a front view of a blank of a cutlery item according to one embodiment of the present invention; a rear view of the blank; a perspective view of the blank partially folded to form an assembled closed package condition; a perspective view of the blank as it is partially folded to form an assembled, erect or open package condition; and a perspective view of the blank in an erect and assembled or open package condition respectively.

Referring firstly to figures la, lb, 3-6, there is shown a disposable cutlery item in the form of a spoon 2 that is formed from a blank of material 4. The material in this example is typically a cardboard material provided with a waterproof coating.

The blank 4 is moved from a flat unfolded condition as shown in figures la-lb, to a closed, assembled condition as shown in figure 4. In use, the closed, assembled condition is moved to an open, assembled condition by a user and is folded, as shown by figure 5, to form a finished assembled, erect condition, as shown by figure 6.

Blank 4 comprises a first portion 6, a second portion 8 joined to first portion 6 along fold line 10, and a third portion 12 joined to first portion 6 along fold line 14.

In the illustration, each portion 6, 8, 12 is square in shape and of the same dimensions. However, the portions could be any shape or size, or any combination of different shapes or sizes, such as the substantially circular shapes shown in the embodiment in figure 2. (The same reference numerals are used to describe the same features in the different figures).

The first portion 6 includes a plurality of frangible sections, shown by dotted line 16, provided within the interior of the first portion. The frangible sections 16 define the shape of a “working part” 18 or scoop part of the spoon between the sections 16 and the fold line 10. A Y-shaped fold line is provided in the working part 18 and includes a first fold line 20 provided perpendicular to fold line 10 and ending part way along working part 18, a second fold line 22 provided from the end of first fold line 20 (mid way in working part 18) to a peripheral edge of working part 18, and a third fold line 24 provided from the end of first fold line 20 to a peripheral edge 23 of working part 18. Second and third fold lines 22, 24 are provided a spaced distance apart on the perhipheral edge of working part 18.

The section of the first portion 6 outside of the frangible sections 16 is defined as outer section 26. An adhesive coating 28 can be provided on the outer section 26 on both the front and rear surfaces of first portion 6 to allow part of second portion 8 and third portion 12 to be adhered to the same when in the closed, assembled condition. The adhesive coating is typically provided a spaced distance apart from the peripheral edges of first portion 6 so as to define an adhesive free flange 29 adjacent the peripheral edges of first portion 6. The adhesive coating is also provided a spaced distance apart from the working part 18 of the item so as not to contaminate the item. A fold line 30 is provided along second portion 8 from fold line 10 part way into the interior surface of second portion 8. Fold line 30 is perpendicular to fold line 10 and is aligned and linear with fold line 20 of first portion 6. A fold line 32 is provided along third portion 12 from fold line 14 to opposite end 34. Fold line 32 is perpendicular to fold line 14 and, although a spaced distance apart, is aligned and linear with fold line 20 and fold line 30 of the first portion and second portion respectively.

In order to move the flat and planar blank 4 to a closed and assembled position, a front surface 36 of second portion 8 is folded along fold line 10 and moved towards a front surface 38 of first portion 6, as shown by arrow 40. A rear surface 42 of third portion 12 is folded along fold line 14 and moved towards a rear surface 44 of first portion 6, as shown by arrow 46. Thus, the first, second and third portions are folded in a concertina like manner. The adhesive 28 provided on the front and rear surfaces 38, 44 of the first portion 6 adheres the second and third portions 8, 12 to the front and rear surfaces of the first portion respectively. Rear surface 48 of second portion 8 now forms one outer surface of the closed cutlery item package, and front surface 50 of third portion 12 forms another outer surface of the closed cutlery item package, as shown in figure 4.

The closed, assembled cutlery item package can be transported, stored and handled by one or more users without contaminating the cutlery piece 18 provided within the cutlery item package. The cutlery piece 18 can therefore remain sterile, or at least clean, prior to use of the cutlery item. The ability to transport the cutlery item in a flat condition reduces the costs associated with transport and/or storage.

With reference to figure 5, when a user needs to open the closed cutlery item package and gain access to the cutlery item located within the package, a user inserts a finger tip or finger nail between the adhesive free flange 29 of the first portion 6 and the second portion 8, and separates the second potion 8 from the first portion 6. The adhesive used between the portions is of sufficiently low tack to allow separation of the portions without a great deal of force being applied by a user.

The front surface 50 of second portion 8 is then folded along fold line 10 in a rearwardly direction away from working part 18, as shown by arrow 52. At the same time, outer section 26 of first portion 6, which is attached by adhesive 28 to third portion 12, is folded along fold line 10 in a rearwardly direction away from working part 18, as shown by arrow 54. The outer section 26 and third portion 12 remain adhered together and intact during this folding operation. Movement of the outer section 26 and third portion 12 facilitates breaking of the frangible sections 16 defining the working part 18. This moves the working part 18 away from the outer section 26 and third portion 12 to allow the working part 18 to protrude outwardly from the fold line 10.

The outer section 26 of first portion 6, the second portion 8 and third portion 12 are then folded along fold lines 30, 32 such that opposite side edges 56 are moved towards each other and a spaced distance above the working part 18. The folded outer section 26, second portion 8 and third portion 12 thereby form a handle portion to the finished cutlery item to allow a user to grip this portion and use the spoon shaped working portion 18 to scoop up food with the same. The finished, erect cutlery item is shown in figure 6. A second embodiment of a disposable cutlery item according to the present invention is shown in figures 7 a-12. In this embodiment the first portion 6 is located at an end of the blank 4 and is joined to second portion 8 only along fold line 10. The third portion 12 is joined to second portion 8 along fold line 58.

In order to move the blank 4 into a closed and assembled condition, as shown in figures 8 and 9, the front surface 38 of first portion 6 is folded along fold line 10 towards the front surface 36 of second portion 8, as shown by arrow 60. Front surface 50 of third portion 12 is folded along fold line 58 towards the rear surface 44 of first portion 6, as shown by arrow 62. The portions 6, 8, 12 are adhered together as previously described to form the closed, assembled package shown in figure 9.

In contrast to the embodiment shown in figures 1-6, additional fold lines 64, 66 are provided along the first, second and third portions 6, 8, 12 in figures 7a-12. The fold lines 64, 66 are a spaced distance apart and parallel to each other. Fold lines 64, 66 are also parallel and a spaced distance apart from central fold lines 20, 30, 32. When moving the cutlery item to an open and erect condition, the outer sections 68, 70 of the first, second and third portions 6, 8, 12 defined between the fold line 64 and the adjacent parallel peripheral edge 72, and between the fold line 66 and the adjacent parallel peripheral edge 74 are folded inwardly of fold lines 64, 66 in an overlapping manner with inner sections 76 provided between central fold lines 20, 30, 32 and fold line 64, and inner sections 78 provided between central fold lines 20, 30, 32 and fold line 66, as shown in figure 11. The folded sections 80, 82 either side of fold lines 30, 32 are then folded inwardly of each other to form an upright handle element 84, as shown in figure 12.

Figures 13a-15 show a similar embodiment to that shown in figures la-6, but a tab element 86 is joined to an end of third portion 12 along a frangible fold line 88. Adhesive 28 can be applied to a rear surface of tab element 86 to help secure the cutlery item in the closed, assembled form shown in figure 15. The tab element 86 is folded along fold line 88 and moved towards rear surface 48 of second portion 8 to form the closed, assembled condition. In order to open the cutlery item package, the tab element 86 can be torn along frangible fold line 88 to help open the cutlery item package.

The embodiment shown in figures 16a-21 provides the cutlery item as part of an outer packaging for a carton 100. In particular, the outer packaging forms a sleeve 102 when constructed for the carton 100. In this embodiment, the blank 104 comprises first, second and third portions 6, 8, 12 in a similar manner to that shown in figures la-6. In addition, third portion 12 is joined to a fourth portion 106 via frangible fold line 108. Fifth portion 110 is joined fourth portion 106 via fold line 112. Sixth portion 114 is joined to fifth portion 110 via fold line 116. Seventh portion 118 is joined to second portion 8 via frangible fold line 120. Eighth portion 122 is joined to seventh portion 118 via fold line 124. Ninth portion 126 is joined to eighth portion 122 via fold line 128. The fold lines 116, 112, 108, 14, 10, 120, 124, 128 are all parallel and a spaced distance apart from each other.

In fitting of the sleeve 102 to the carton 100, the first, second and third portions 6, 8, 12 are folded in a concertina manner as previously described. With the closed cutlery item package located on a top of carton 100, the remainder portions 114, 110, 106, 118, 122 , 126 of the blank are wrapped around the carton 100. The sixth portion 11 and ninth portion 126 are brought into overlapping relationship with each other at the base of carton 100 and can be adhered to each other to form a sleeve.

When a user needs to remove the sleeve 102 from the carton 100, the user breaks the frangible sections forming fold lines 108, 120, thereby releasing the closed cutlery item package from the rest of the sleeve 103. The cutlery item is opened and erected from the closed cutlery package as previously described.

Figure 22 is a further embodiment of the present invention in which the working part 18 of the cutlery item is in the form of a fork rather than a spoon. The frangible sections 16 of the first portion 6 can be shaped so as to define an outer shape of a fork element.

Figures 23 and 24 show a yet further embodiment of the present invention in which the working part 18 of the cutlery item is in the form of a knife rather than a spoon. The frangible sections 16 of the first portion 6 can be shaped so as to define an outer shape of a knife element. In contrast to figure 22 wherein the fold lines 20, 30, 32 passing through first, second and third portions 6, 8, 12 respectively are provided perpendicular to fold lines 10, 14, the fold lines 130, 132, 134 in figures 23, 24 passing through first, second and third portions 6, 8, 12 are provided at an acute angle to fold lines 10, 14. More particularly, the fold lines 130, 132 provided in third portion 12 and first portion 6 are continuous and linear with each other. The fold line 134 provided in second portion 8 is not aligned with fold lines 130, 132 and is arranged to angle in a different direction to fold lines 130, 132.

Figures 25a and 25b show how the adhesive used to seal the cutlery item package in a closed condition can be provided in different arrangements compared to earlier described embodiments.

The embodiment shown in figures 26-32 provides the cutlery item as part of an outer packaging for a carton 200. In particular, the outer packaging forms a sleeve 202 when constructed for the carton 200. In contrast to the sleeve 102 described in figures 16a-21 which is provided around the top, sides and base of the carton 100, the sleeve 202 is provided around the tapered side walls of the carton 200.

The sleeve 202 is formed from a blank 204. The second portion 8 is defined in the main sleeve wall portion 206 of blank 204 adjacent a first peripheral end edge 208. First portion 6 is joined to second portion 8 via fold line 10 which also forms part of the peripheral end edge 208 and is continuous with the same. The side edges 210, 212 and end edge 214 (opposite to fold line 10) are defined by frangible sections to allow the second portion to be separated from the main sleeve wall portion 206 in use.

First portion 6 protrudes outwardly from main sleeve wall portion 206. During construction of sleeve 202, first portion 6 is folded inwardly of sleeve 202 along fold line 10, as shown by arrow 216, such that first portion 6 sits between the second portion 8 and the carton 200 when the sleeve is located on the carton 200. In this manner, the working portion 18 of the cutlery item is protected from dirt and external conditions.

The main sleeve wall portion 206 can be applied to the outer surface of the carton 200 in a conventional manner. When a user needs to use the cutlery item, they separate the first and second portions 6, 8 from the main sleeve wall portion 206, as shown in figure 30, by breaking the frangible sections 210, 212, 214. The user then breaks the frangible sections 16 surrounding the working part 18 of the first portion. The working part 18 is lifted from the remaining section 26 of the first portion and the remaining section 26 is moved into overlapping relationship with the second portion 8 and folded in a similar manner to that described and shown in figure 6. A further embodiment of the present invention is shown in figures 33-39. The cutlery item in the form of a spoon 2 that is formed from a blank of material 300.

The blank 300 is moved from a flat unfolded condition as shown in figure 33 to a closed, assembled condition as shown in figure 37. In use, the closed, assembled condition is moved to an open, assembled condition by a user. The user moves the assembled and partially erect/open condition, as shown in figure 38, to the assembled and fully erect/open condition, as shown in figure 39.

Blank 300 comprises a first portion 6, a second portion 8 joined to first portion 6 along fold line 10, and a third portion 12 joined to second portion 8 along fold line 14. The first, second and third portions are joined in an end to end manner to form an elongate shape, as shown in figure 33.

In the illustration, first portion 6 has a first rounded free end section 6a and a second section 6b which joins section 6a to fold line 10. The peripheral edge of the first portion forms the peripheral edge of the spoon, “working part” or scoop end in use. Second and third portions 8, 12 are square in shape and of the same dimensions. However, the portions could be any shape or size, or any combination of different shapes or sizes as required. A T-shaped fold line is provided in the first portion 6 and includes a first fold line 20 provided perpendicular to fold line 10 and ending part way along first portion 6, and a second fold line 22 provided perpendicular to the end of first fold line 20 to the peripheral edges of first portion 6. The second fold line 22 is provided between first and second sections 6a, 6b and allows these sections to be moved relative to each other. A fold line 30 is provided along second portion 8 from fold line 10 to fold line 14. Fold line 30 is perpendicular to fold lines 10 and 14 and is aligned and linear with fold line 32 of third portion 12.

Fold line 32 is provided along third portion 12 from fold line 14 to opposite fold line 34. Fold line 32 is perpendicular to fold lines 14 and 34, and is aligned and linear with fold line 20 and fold line 30 of the first portion and second portion respectively. A tab portion 302 is joined to third portion 12 along fold line 34.

Frangible means in the form of a semi-circular shaped frangible line 304 is provided in third portion 12, the base of the frangible semi-circle sitting on or forming part of fold line 34.

In order to move the flat and planar blank 300 to a closed and assembled position, first portion 6 is folded along fold line 10 and moved towards and in overlapping and abutting relationship with second portion 8, as shown in figures 34 and 35. First section 6a is folded along fold line 22 so that it sits on second section 6b. Third portion 12 is then folded over first folded portion 6 and second portion 8 as shown in figure 36.

Third portion 12 has lines or areas of adhesive 306 provided on opposite peripheral edges 308, 310. A line or area of adhesive (for example, removable adhesive, peelable adhesive and/or the like) is also provided on tab 302. When third portion 12 engages with second portion 8, the adhesive adheres the third portion and second portion 8 together along their respective peripheral edges.

The tab 302 is then folded over onto third portion 12 along fold line 34, as shown in figure 37 to form a closed assembled cutlery package.

The closed, assembled cutlery item package can be transported, stored and handled by one or more users without contaminating the working cutlery piece formed from the first portion 6 provided within the cutlery item package. The cutlery piece 6 can therefore remain sterile, or at least clean, prior to use of the cutlery item.

In order to open the closed package when the cutlery item is to be used, a user opens and/or removes tab 302 and removes the frangible portion defined by lines 304 on the third portion 12. This allows a user to then insert a finger tip or finger nail between the third and second portions 12, 8 and grip and pull out first section 6a from between the third and second portions 12, 8. A user continues to apply a pulling force to first section 6a to remove first and second sections 6a, 6b from between third and second portions 12, 8, and to unfold first section 6a from second section 6b via fold line 22. First and second sections 6a, 6b then protrude outwardly in a linear manner from fold line 10, as shown in figure 38. The sections 6a and 6b are in a relatively flat condition in this partially open/erect condition.

The first portion 6 and the joined second and third portions 8, 12 are then folded along their fold lines 20, 30, 32 such that the opposite side edges 308, 310 are brought towards each other and together. In this fully erect/open condition, the opposite side edges 308, 310 are typically a spaced distance apart from and above the “working part” or scoop part 6a of the spoon 2, as shown in figure 39. The opposite side edges of the second section 6b are also raised or vertically spaced from the opposite side edges of the first section 6a to create side walls to the rear end of the working part or scoop part, thereby preventing any item contained thereon from accidentally falling off in use. The second and third portions 8, 12 form a handle portion to allow a user to grip the finished cutlery item in use. A yet further embodiment of the present invention is shown in figures 40a-40e. In this embodiment a third portion 402 of a blank 400 is adhered to a first portion 404 so that in an assembled, erect and open package condition the “working part” of the utensil item is formed from two overlapping portions. This provides greater strength to the working part of the utensil.

More particularly, blank 400 comprises a second portion 406 joined to first portion 404 along fold line 408. First portion 404 is joined to third portion 402 along fold line 410. Third portion 402 is joined to fourth portion 412 along fold line 414. Fold lines 416, 418 are provided perpendicular to fold line 410 and are provided centrally from fold line 410 to mid points in first portion 404 and third portion 402. Complementary shaped Working parts 420a are defined in first and third portions 404, 402 via frangible lines 422.

Adhesive 424 is provided on the rear surface of second portion 406 and fourth portion 412 to allow the package to be folded in a concertina like manner, as shown in figure 40c to form an assembled closed package condition. Adhesive 426 is also provided on the front surface of the working part 420a to allow the working parts 420a of the first and third portions 404, 402 to be joined together, and for the tab part 420b of the first and third portions 404, 402 to be joined together. Adhesive 428 is provided on the first and third portions in the parts surrounding the working parts 420a, 420b and separated therefrom by the frangible lines 422. This allows the second portion 406 to be adhered to the surrounding part of the first portion 404, and for the fourth portion 412 to be adhered to the surrounding part of the third portion 402, as shown in figure 4d. The partially folded blank shown in figure 40d can then be folded along fold lines 416, 418 to provide the fully erect, assembled and open packaged condition, as shown in figure 40e.

Claims

1. A utensil or cutlery item, said utensil and cutlery item formed from a blank of material having first and at least second portions with at least one fold line separating said portions, the first portion forming a utensil or cutlery piece in use, and that at least second item providing a cover for at least partially covering said first portion prior to at least first use of the utensil or cutlery piece.

2. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein the second portion and/or a further portion is arrange to be movable relative to the first portion when use of the utensil or cutlery item is required.

3. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein the blank of material is movable from an unassembled condition and/or a flat, planar or substantially flat or substantially planar condition, to an assembled condition in use.

4. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein with the utensil or cutlery item in an assembled condition, it can be in the form of a closed package assembled condition, wherein one or more portions of the blank are folded in such a manner that the first portion and/or the utensil or cutlery piece is at least partially covered or partially or wholly enclosed by the at least second portion, or it can be in the form of an assembled, erect or open package condition, wherein one or more portions, or parts of portion of the blank are folded in such a manner that at least part of the first portion and/or utensil or cutlery piece is moved clear of or is unobstructed by the at least second portion.

5. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 4 wherein the closed package assembled condition is a flat, planar, substantially flat or substantially planar condition.

6. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein the first portion includes one or more fold lines to allow one or more parts of the first portion to be folded or flexed in use relative to one or more other parts of the first portion to shape the same into a utensil or cutlery piece in use.

7. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein the first portion is folded and/or flexed in use to form a scoop or spoon like piece, a knife and/or a fork piece when in an assembled and erect or open package condition.

8. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 6 wherein the first portion has a Y-shaped, T-shaped or substantially Y or T shaped fold line defined therein.

9. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 6 wherein the first portion has a fold line provided at an acute, perpendicular or substantially perpendicular angle to one of its sides and/or to the fold line between the first and second portions.

10. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein the first portion includes at least one frangible, perforated or weakened sections to allow at least one section or part of the first portion to be separated and/or broken off from at least one other section or part of the first portion in use.

11. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein the second portion and/or a further portion of the blank includes at least one frangible, perforated or weakened sections to allow at least one section or part of the same to be separated and/or broken off from at least one other section or part of the portion(s) in use.

12. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 10 wherein the frangible, perforated or weakened sections are arranged such that they define the outer shape, or at least part of the outer shape of the cutlery or utensil piece in use.

13. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 10 wherein the frangible, perforated or weakened sections are arranged such that one or more peripheral sections of the first portion can be completely or partially removed or moved clear from one or more interior sections of the first portion during erection of the cutlery or utensil item in use.

14. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 13 wherein one or more of the peripheral sections of the first portion are folded back to overlap with, or at least partially overlap with, the at least second portion when the item is in an assembled and erect or open package condition.

15. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein a whole or substantial whole of the at least second portion forms a handle or gripping element when the item is in an assembled and erect or open package condition.

16. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein the second portion includes at least one fold line provided along an interior surface of the same to allow the second portion to be at least partially folded or flexed in use to form a handle or gripping element when thte item is in an assembled and erect or open package condition.

17. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 16 wherein the at least one fold line is perpendicular, substantially perpendicular or at an acute angle to the fold line between the first and second portions.

18. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 16 wherein the at least one fold line is aligned, co-axial, linear and/or substantially linear with a fold line provided in the interior of the first portion and/or in the interior of a third or further portion.

19. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein the blank and/or second portion forms part of an item of packaging.

20. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein the blank and/or second portion is integrally formed with a blank for packaging or is joined to a blank for an item of packaging.

21. A utensil or cutlery item according to claims 19 or 20 wherein the item of packaging is in the form of outer packaging for an object or is in the form of a sleeve member for location on or around an object in use.

22. A utensil or cutlery item according to claims 19 or 20 wherein one or more frangible, perforated or weakened sections are provided in the item of packaging to allow separation of the utensil or cutlery item therefrom in use.

23. A utensil or cutlery item according to claims 19 or 20 wherein the first portion is located between the second portion and/or the item of packaging and an object to which the packaging is attached to in use prior to separation of the utensil or cutlery item from the packaging item and/or prior to removal of the packaging item from the object in use.

24. A utensil or cutlery item according to any preceding claim wherein the item of packaging is formed from a blank of material comprising two or more portions or panels separated by one or more fold lines, one or more of the portions or panels movable to form a constructed item of packaging in use.

25. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 including a first portion, a second portion and at least a third portion.

26. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 25 wherein a fold line is provided between the first and second portions and between the second and third portions; or a fold line is provided between the first and second portions and the first and third portions.

27. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 25 wherein the utensil or cutlery item blank is folded in such a manner that the first portion is located between at least the second and third portions when in a closed and assembled condition.

28. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 25 wherein the first, second and at least third portions are folded in a concertina or Z-like manner to located the first portion between the second and the at least third portions and/or to form an assembled and closed package condition.

29. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 wherein attachment means or an attachment mechanism is provided to allow one or more of the blank portions to be attached together to form the closed and assembled condition and/or to form an erect and assembled or open package condition.

30. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 29 wherein the attachment means or mechanism includes any or any combination of heat sealing, welding, adhesive, one or more clips or inter-engaging members.

31. A utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1 formed from any or any combination of a flexible or substantially flexible material, a sheet or sheet like material, paper, card, cardboard, board, laminated material, corrugated material, plastic or rubber.

32. A method of using a utensil or cutlery item, said method including the steps of taking a blank of material having first and at least second portions with at least one fold line separating said portions, moving the first and/or the second portions such that the first portion forms a utensil or cutlery piece in use, and that at least second item forms a cover for at least partially covering said first portion prior to at least first use of the utensil or cutlery piece.

33. A blank of material for forming a utensil or cutlery item according to claim 1.