JP2014514219A - Panel interlock structure - Google Patents

Abstract

  In the panel interlock structure, the first panel (146) and the second panel (148) are fixed to each other in an overlapping relationship. The structure includes a female fixation tab (F) formed in the first panel and a male fixation tab (M) formed in the second panel. The female fixation tab can be displaced to define a first opening (O) in the first panel for receiving both the male fixation tab and the female fixation tab. The female fixation tab includes a neck portion (220) for connecting the female fixation tab to the first panel, and a head portion (222, 224) foldably connected to the neck portion by a fold line (228). The male fixation tab can be displaced to define a second opening in the second panel for receiving the female fixation tab.

Description

  The present invention relates generally to cartons, and more particularly to a panel interlock structure for ensuring a rigid connection between panels that are secured together in a superimposed structure.

  Wrap-around cartons and hand-pack top-loaded cartons are known, effective, attractive and useful for holding, storing and transporting multiple items And it has been used for a long time as a convenient secondary package. For example, such cartons are useful for carrying a plurality of beverage containers in groups and exposing these beverage containers for visibility and economy of material use.

  Wrap-around cartons and top-load cartons are usually top-grip, that is, they can be lifted from above using a handle component. Cartons often include interlocking assemblies that mechanically secure the overlapping panels together because the bottom wall of the carton typically must support the weight of the contents without reinforcement. Thus, the carton panels are reliably and reliably secured to each other to prevent separation of the overlapping panels on the bottom wall or to prevent unwanted movement of the container group while carrying the carton. Must.

  Although many panel interlock structures have been implemented in the art, most of them do not completely limit the relative motion between overlapping panels. In fact, some structures have successfully limited the movement of panels moving away from each other along a virtual plane defined between overlapping panels, but in a direction facing each other along the virtual plane. The movement of the moving panel or the movement of the panels moving away from each other in the direction perpendicular to the imaginary plane is not strictly limited, and the lateral movement between the panels is not prevented.

  The disadvantages of the prior art are addressed by various aspects of the present invention that provide a panel interlock structure in which two panels are secured together in a superimposed structure. According to this panel interlock structure, the movement of these two panels in the direction away from each other along the virtual plane defined between the overlapping panels is restricted, and the directions of these panels facing each other along the virtual plane are limited. Movement of these panels is restricted, lateral movement of these panels relative to each other is restricted, and movement of these panels away from each other in a direction perpendicular to the virtual plane defined between these panels is restricted. In that respect, a very rigid connection between the two panels is provided.

  Specifically, according to the present invention in one aspect, the pair of the first panel and the second panel arranged in a superimposed relationship and the first panel and the second panel in a superimposed relationship in cooperation with each other. A panel interlock structure is provided that includes a pair of male and female fixing tabs that are secured together. The female locking tab is stamped out of the first panel and its proximal portion so that the first opening is defined in the first panel when the female locking tab is folded out of the plane of the first panel. It is foldably connected to the first panel at the edge. The female securing tab includes a neck portion and a head portion hinged to the neck portion by a fold line. The neck portion extends between the fold line and the proximal end edge of the female fixation tab, while the head portion extends between the fold line and the distal end edge of the female fixation tab. The male securing tab is stamped out of the second panel and its proximal portion so that when the male securing tab is folded out of the plane of the second panel, a second opening is defined in the second panel. It is foldably connected to the second panel at the edge. The proximal end edge of the male securing tab is disposed substantially parallel to the free edge of the second panel, with the second opening located therebetween. The first panel and the second panel are substantially aligned with the first opening and the second opening, and a portion along the free edge of the second panel is the first opening and the female fixing tab. It arrange | positions so that it may arrange | position between the neck parts. The male securing tab is folded out of the plane of the second panel and is received within the first opening of the first panel for taking the folded position. The female locking tab is such that the head portion of the female locking tab is received in the first opening and the second opening, and the head portion is in mutual bracing engagement with the male locking tab, whereby the male locking tab and the female locking tab. The tabs are folded along the folding line so that the tabs are arranged at the holding positions held at the folding position and the holding position, respectively.

  In a preferred embodiment, the distal edge of the male fixation tab and the female fixation tab can be located on one side of the first panel.

  In another preferred embodiment, the free edge of the second panel is positioned against the female fixation tab such that the free edge of the second panel and the proximal edge of the female fixation tab are substantially aligned. Can do.

  In other preferred embodiments, the portion of the second panel along the free edge of the second panel can include a portion between the second opening and the free edge of the second panel.

  In yet another preferred embodiment, the first opening of the first panel can have an inner end to which the proximal end edge of the female securing tab is foldably connected and located in the folded position. The male securing tab can engage the outer end of the first opening opposite to the inner end of the first opening.

  In yet another preferred embodiment, the second opening of the second panel can have an inner end to which the proximal end edge of the male securing tab is foldably connected and is located in the holding position. The head portion of the female locking tab can engage the outer end of the second opening opposite to the inner end of the second opening.

  In yet another preferred embodiment, the head portion of the female fixation tab located in the holding position can rest against and support the male fixation tab. In such an embodiment, the male locking tab can lean against the distal edge of the head portion of the female locking tab.

  In yet another preferred embodiment, the male securing tab located in the folded position can rest against and support the head portion of the female securing tab. In such an embodiment, the head portion of the female fixation tab can lean against the distal edge of the male fixation tab.

  In other preferred embodiments, at least one of the male and female fixation tabs may include a shoulder portion that is substantially wider than the remaining portion of at least one of the male and female fixation tabs.

  In yet another preferred embodiment, one of the male fixation tab and the female fixation tab can include an expansion tab that projects from the distal edge of the fixation tab, and the other fixation tab is A complementary cutout can be provided for receiving the expansion tab.

  According to the present invention in a second aspect, a blank for forming a panel interlock structure is provided. The blank overlaps the first panel and the second panel in cooperation with each other with a pair of the first panel and the second panel that are arranged in a superimposed relationship when the panel interlock structure is formed. A pair of male and female fixation tabs that are secured together in relation. The female locking tab is stamped out of the first panel, and when the female locking tab is folded out of the plane of the first panel, a first opening for receiving both the male locking tab and the female locking tab is provided. It is foldably connected to the first panel at its proximal end, as defined in the first panel. The female securing tab includes a neck portion and a head portion hinged to the neck portion by a fold line. The neck portion extends between the fold line and the proximal end edge of the female fixation tab, while the head portion extends between the fold line and the distal end edge of the female fixation tab. The male securing tab is stamped out of the second panel, and when the male securing tab is folded out of the plane of the second panel, a second opening for receiving the female securing tab is in the second panel. As defined, it is foldably connected to the second panel at its proximal edge. The proximal end edge of the male securing tab is disposed substantially parallel to the free edge of the second panel, with the second opening located therebetween.

  According to the invention in a third aspect, a carton is provided that includes the panel interlock structure referred to above.

  While some of the aspects and features of the present invention have been outlined broadly, they should be construed as merely illustrative of the various possible uses of the present invention. Other advantageous results can be obtained by applying the disclosed information in different ways or by modifying the disclosed embodiments. Accordingly, other aspects and a more comprehensive understanding of the invention may be obtained by reference to the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in addition to the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Can be obtained by reference.

1 is a plan view of an exemplary blank for forming a carton including a panel interlock structure of the present invention. FIG. It is an enlarged view of the component of a panel interlock structure. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary carton formed from the blank of FIG. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. It is the elements on larger scale of the panel interlock structure in the operation state. FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the carton of FIG. 3 with two pairs of male and female fixation tabs according to the present invention securing the bottom panels of the carton together. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing another exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing another exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing another exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing another exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view showing another exemplary method for operating a panel interlock structure. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view showing folding of the bottom panel of the carton of FIG. 2 to illustrate yet another exemplary method for manipulating the panel interlock structure. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view showing folding of the bottom panel of the carton of FIG. 2 to illustrate yet another exemplary method for manipulating the panel interlock structure. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view showing folding of the bottom panel of the carton of FIG. 2 to illustrate yet another exemplary method for manipulating the panel interlock structure. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view showing folding of the bottom panel of the carton of FIG. 2 to illustrate yet another exemplary method for manipulating the panel interlock structure. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view showing folding of the bottom panel of the carton of FIG. 2 to illustrate yet another exemplary method for manipulating the panel interlock structure. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view showing folding of the bottom panel of the carton of FIG. 2 to illustrate yet another exemplary method for manipulating the panel interlock structure. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view showing folding of the bottom panel of the carton of FIG. 2 to illustrate yet another exemplary method for manipulating the panel interlock structure. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view showing folding of the bottom panel of the carton of FIG. 2 to illustrate yet another exemplary method for manipulating the panel interlock structure. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view showing folding of the bottom panel of the carton of FIG. 2 to illustrate yet another exemplary method for manipulating the panel interlock structure. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view showing folding of the bottom panel of the carton of FIG. 2 to illustrate yet another exemplary method for manipulating the panel interlock structure.

  In the present specification, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed as necessary. It should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that can be embodied in various alternatives and combinations thereof. As used herein, the word “exemplary” is used extensively to mean an embodiment that serves as an illustration, sample, model or pattern. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. In other instances, well-known components, systems, materials or methods have not been described in detail in order to clarify the invention. Accordingly, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting the invention, but merely as a basis for claims and various uses of the invention. It should be construed as a typical basis for teaching those skilled in the art.

  Referring now to the drawings, wherein like numerals represent like elements throughout the several views, these drawings illustrate certain aspects of the various aspects of the exemplary embodiment of the carton. Yes. In the embodiments described in detail herein, the term carton contains, transports and transports articles, such as clear plastic bottles, for non-limiting purposes to illustrate various features of the invention. Means a container for dispensing. However, the teachings of the present invention can be applied to a variety of containers that may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical or non-cylindrical. Is contemplated. Other exemplary articles include metal or glass bottles, aluminum cans, boring pins, candles, and the like.

  In order to teach various aspects of the invention, not to limit the invention, the panel interlock structure L is in the context of an exemplary top load carton-type package for a plurality of cylindrical cans or bottles. explain. Male locking tabs M and female locking tabs F (best shown in FIG. 2) of individual panel interlock structures L (best shown in FIG. 16) are defined in the blank 10, The blank 10 can be constructed from a single sheet of suitable substrate on which multiple hinge connection panels are defined. The inner surface of the blank 10 is shown in FIG.

  With reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary blank 10 includes a series of panels that will define the perimeter of a carton 20, the series of panels comprising an end flap 100, a first side panel 102, and a second side panel 104. A first end panel 106 and a second end panel 108. The upper edges of these peripheral panels define the top edge 110 of the transport compartment of the carton 20. The lower edges of these peripheral panels define the bottom edge 112 of the transport compartment of the carton 20.

  The end flap 100 is hinged to the first side panel 102 along the fold line 114, and the first side panel 102 is hinged to the first end panel 106 along the fold line 116, The end panel 106 is hinged to the second side panel 104 along the fold line 118, and the second side panel 104 is hinged to the second end panel 108 along the fold line 120.

  The carton 20 (FIG. 3) includes a synthetic handle panel H, which is formed from a number of other panels defined within the blank 10. Specifically, the blank 10 includes a central panel 122 with finger holding openings A, a handle reinforcement panel 124 with complementary finger holding openings A, and a divider panel that can also include one or more finger holding openings A. 126. Center panel 122 is hinged to handle reinforcement panel 124 along fold line 128 and hinged to end flap 100 along fold line 130. The center panel 122 is hinged to the divider panel 126 at the bottom edge along the fold line 132. The edge flap 134 is hinged to the central panel 122 along the fold line 136 and is used to assemble the central panel 122 when assembling the carton 20 as will be described in more detail below. Affixed to the end panel 106.

  A number of divider strips are hinged to the central panel 122 and the divider panel 126 and are at least partially stamped from the central panel 122 and the divider panel 126. Specifically, the first divider strip 138 and the second divider strip 140 are hinged to the central panel 122 along corresponding individual fold lines 139 and 141, and the individual divider strip 138 and 140 are equally spaced from each other and equally spaced from the fold lines 136 and 130 that define the side edges of the central panel 122. The first divider strip 138 extends from the fold line 139 toward the second divider strip 140 and traverses the fold line 141 connecting the second divider strip 140 to the central panel 122. Extending thereby defining a tab T at its distal edge. The second divider strip 140 extends from the fold line 141 toward the end flap 100 and extends over the end flap 100 by traversing the fold line 130 and thereby at its distal edge. A tab T is defined. The blank 10 includes a third divider strip 142 and a fourth divider strip 144, the third divider strip 142 being hinged to the divider panel 126 along a fold line 143, The fourth divider strip 144 is hinged to the divider panel 126 along the fold line 145. A tab T is defined at the distal edge of the third divider strip 142. The fourth divider strip 144 extends from the fold line 145 toward the third divider strip 142 and crosses the fold line 143 for connecting the third divider strip 142 to the divider panel 126. Extending thereby defining a tab T.

  The blank 10 includes corresponding individual first bottom panels 146 and second bottom panels 148 that are hinged along fold lines 150 and 152 that extend along the bottom edge 112 of the carton 20. . The first bottom panel 146 and the second bottom panel 148 are configured to be secured together in a superimposed manner using two panel interlock structures L according to the present invention. The female locking tabs F of the two panel interlock structures L are formed in the first bottom panel 146 near the free edge 154, and the complementary male fixing tabs M of the two panel interlock structures L are It is formed in the second bottom panel 148 in the vicinity of the free edge 156. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that any number of panel interlock structures L may be desirable in some cases, for example, depending on the characteristics of the substrate on which the carton 20 is formed, the characteristics of the article being conveyed, and the structural design of the carton 20 Let's be done. The carton 20 shown in FIG. 3 is designed to carry items such as cans or bottles in a 2 × 3 configuration, and the panel interlock structure L can be used with the bottom panels 146, 148 alone or The number and arrangement of the panel interlock structures L can be fixed together in combination with an adhesive, so the number and arrangement of the panel interlock structures L are design choices selected accordingly. As will be described in more detail below, the arrangement of the panel interlock structure L can be selected to cooperate with the arrangement of articles and divider strips in the carton 20, whereby the panel interlock structure L Failure can be prevented.

  Next, the fixing tabs F and M of the panel interlock structure L will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. More particularly, the male securing tab M defines a complementary opening in the second bottom panel 148 when displaced from the imaginary plane of the second bottom panel 148. The male securing tab M is segmented to include a neck portion 202, a shoulder portion 204, and a tongue 206, although certain segments of these segments are substantially contiguous with each other, and The other segments are hinged along the fold line or can simply be folded relative to each other without being joined by a completely separate fold line. In the illustrated embodiment, the neck portion 202 is a partially separated portion that is continuous with the second bottom panel 148, is centered along the fold line 208, and The shoulder portion 204 along the fold line 208 is interrupted by a substantially semicircular first arcuate separation line (ie, cutting line) 210 that extends across the fold line 208 and onto the shoulder portion 204. Is connected to the hinge. In some embodiments of the present invention, the neck portion 202 can be omitted so that the shoulder portion 204 is directly connected to the second bottom panel 148 or has a fold line therebetween. The shoulder portion 204 is substantially wider than the neck portion 202 and has a convexly rounded “wing” defining the profile of its side edges. The tongue 206 defines the distal end of the male securing tab M and is substantially narrower than the shoulder portion 204, but may have a width that is approximately the same as the width of the neck portion 202. Therefore, the width W1 of the shoulder portion 204 is wider than the width W2 of the neck portion 202 and the width W3 of the tongue 206. The width W2 of the neck portion 202 can be substantially equivalent to the width W3 of the tongue 206. The tongue 206 includes a substantially semi-circular second convex retention tab 212 formed along the distal edge 214 of the male fixation tab M.

  The female locking tab F defines a complementary opening in the first bottom panel 146. The female securing tab F is also segmented to include a neck portion 220, a shoulder portion 222 having curved side edges, and a bracing portion 224, although certain of these segments are substantially relative to each other. Are continuous, and certain other segments are hinged along the fold line, or are not joined by a completely separate fold line and / or pre-knotted fold line Can be simply folded against each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the neck portion 220 is hinged to the first bottom panel 146 along the fold line 226 and hinged to the shoulder portion 222 along the fold line 228. The fold line 228 is interrupted by a substantially semicircular convex retention tab 230 that is centrally located along the fold line 228 and extends over the shoulder portion 222. The shoulder portion 222 is continuous with the bracing portion 224 that defines the distal edge of the female fixation tab F. The bracing portion 224 includes a substantially semi-circular concave notch portion 231 along the distal end edge 236 of the female locking tab F, which concave notch portion 231 includes a corresponding substantially semi-circular shape. A convex retention tab 232 is defined in the first bottom panel 146. The bracing portion 224 and the shoulder portion 222 are sometimes collectively referred to as the “head portion”.

  The bracing portion 224 defines the distal end of the female fixation tab F and is substantially narrower than the shoulder portion 222, but may have a width that is approximately the same as the width of the neck portion 220. Accordingly, the width W4 of the shoulder portion 222 is wider than the width W5 of the neck portion 220 and the width W6 of the bracing portion 224. The width W5 of the neck portion 220 can be substantially equivalent to the width W6 of the bracing portion 224. The bracing portion 224 includes a substantially semicircular second concave cutout portion 231 formed along the distal end edge 236 of the female fixation tab F.

  The convex retaining tabs 210, 212, 232 and the concave cutout portion 231 are substantially semicircular, but those skilled in the art will recognize that alternative shapes can function in the same way. Similarly, the curved wing-like sides of shoulder portions 204, 222 can have alternative contours consistent with the teachings of the present invention.

  One exemplary method for folding the blank 10 and assembling the carton 20 is as follows, but the folding operations shown and described in the figures may be exaggerated for teaching. The inner surface of the divider panel 126 is folded into surface contact with the inner surface of the central panel 122 and the inner surface of the divider panel 126 can be secured within its structure using a suitable adhesive. The handle reinforcement panel 124 is folded along the fold line 128 and its inner surface is placed in a surface contact relationship on the still exposed portion of the outer surface of the divider panel 126 and the inner surface of the central panel 122. The center panel 122 and the handle reinforcement panel 124 can be secured in place using a suitable adhesive. In either case, application of adhesive to the surfaces of the divider strips 138, 140, 142, 144 is preferably avoided to allow them to be deployed. A composite handle panel H is formed by securing the center panel 122 to the handle reinforcement panel 124 and partially placing the divider panel 126 therebetween. Finger holding openings A drilled in each of these panels are arranged in substantial alignment, thereby forming two openings in the handle panel H to facilitate carrying the carton 20. One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the handle panel H can have only a single opening, or more than two openings. Alternatively, other transport means may be used including, but not limited to, external straps, T-bars, foldover portions, etc.

  Continuing the exemplary method for assembling the carton 20, once the handle panel is formed, the outer perimeter P (FIG. 16) of the carton 20 is constructed. The end flap 100, the first side panel 102, the first end panel 106, the second side panel 104, and the second end panel 108 are substantially perpendicular to each other, and inside the second end panel 108 The blank 10 is folded out of the plane of FIG. 1 along the fold lines 114, 116, 118, 120 so that a portion of the surface is in surface contact with the outer surface of the end flap 100. According to this method, the first side panel 102, the first end panel 106, the second side panel 104, and the second end panel 108 define an outer perimeter of the carton 20, a top edge 110 and a bottom edge 112. The outer periphery P is fixed by attaching the end flap 100 to the inner surface of the second end panel 108. The composite handle panel H is hinged to the end flap 100 and is located inside the outer perimeter P of the carton 20 at this point. The free side edge of the composite handle panel H is secured near the center of the first end panel 106 using an edge flap 134. Accordingly, the composite handle panel H bisects the interior of the carton 20 and extends between the center of the first end panel 106 and the center of each of the second end panels 108, and the first side panel 102 and the second panel 102. The second side panel 104 is spaced apart. The divider strips 138, 140 are connected to the second side panel 104 either before or after securing the first bottom panel 146 to the second bottom panel 148 using the panel interlock structure L of the present invention. And are secured using tabs T at their distal ends, and divider strips 142, 144 are folded toward first side panel 102 and Fastened using tabs T at the distal end. Before securing first side panel 102 and second side panel 104 and divider strips 138, 140, 142, 144 to storage or other equipment for final assembly and loading of articles, for example. The carton 20 can be flattened for shipping.

  Finally, as shown in FIG. 16, the bottom of the carton 20 is formed by securing the first bottom panel 146 to the second bottom panel 148 in a superimposed structure. The first bottom panel 146 is folded upward along the fold line 150 at a right angle to the first side panel 102 and the second bottom panel 148 is folded along the fold line 152 to the second side. Folded upward at a right angle to the panel 104 so that they are brought in substantially the same horizontal plane as shown in FIG. 4, and their individual free edges 154, 156 are in close proximity to each other To do.

  The overlapping structure of the first bottom panel 146 and the second bottom panel 148 uses the panel interlock structure L of the present invention as shown in the series of partial perspective views and side views of FIGS. To be fixed. For clarity of teaching, each of the series of figures shows various stages of engagement of one component of the panel interlock structure L that secures the bottom panel of the carton 20. The relative positions of the bottom panel 146 and the second bottom panel 148, or the relative positions of their individual components, are sometimes exaggerated. 4, 5, 8, 9, 11 and 13 are partial perspective views as seen from a virtual advantageous point inside the carton 20, and FIG. 15 as seen from a virtual advantageous point outside the carton 20. FIG. 6, 7, 10, 12, and 14 are partial side views.

  Referring now to FIG. 4, the male fixation tab M and the female fixation tab F are initially coplanar with the first bottom panel 146 and the second bottom panel 148. Next, as shown in FIG. 5 where a first opening O for receiving the male fixation tab M is shown, the female fixation tab F is located at the proximal edge of the female fixation tab F. It is folded outward along the folding line 226. The first opening O extends from the fold line 226 to the outer end 238. The height of the first bottom panel 146 is slightly higher than the height of the second bottom panel 148 as shown in FIG. 6, and as shown in FIGS. The free edge 156 of the two bottom panels 148 abuts the neck portion 220 at the base (and near the proximal edge) of the female locking tab F and is substantially aligned with the fold line 226. A portion of the male securing tab M and the second bottom panel 148 (the portion extending between the male securing tab M and the free edge 156) is still co-located with the outer surface of the first bottom panel 146. And the fold line 208 is substantially aligned with the outer end 238 of the first opening O in the vicinity of the free edge 154 of the first bottom panel 146. In FIG. 8, these male fixing tabs M and a part of the second bottom panel 148 can be seen through the opening O. Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the shoulder portion 204 of the male securing tab M is folded inward along the fold line 208 to provide the shoulder portion 204 and tongue 206 through the first opening O. The outer end 238 of the first opening O is narrower than the shoulder portion 204, so that the convexly curved wing-like side edge of the shoulder portion 204 bites into the edge of the first opening O. When the shoulder portion 204 of the male securing tab M is folded out of the plane of the second bottom panel 148, the semi-circular convex retaining tab 232 in the first bottom panel 146 is located above and the arcuate separation line While substantially aligned with 210, a second opening (shown in FIG. 9 aligned substantially perpendicular to the first opening O) appears in the second bottom panel 148. To do. The protrusion defined by the semi-circular convex retaining tab 232 and the arcuate separation line 210 engages the cavity 240 defined in the male securing tab M when the male securing tab M is folded upward through the opening O. Match.

  Referring now to FIG. 12, the female locking tab F is folded along the fold line 226 below the free edge 156 of the second bottom panel 148. By this means, the neck portion 220 of the female securing tab F is positioned between the first opening O and the neck portion 220 of the female securing tab F so that the neck portion 220 of the female securing tab F is located in the second bottom panel. It is in surface contact with the lower or outer surface of the 148 visible "portion". Next, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the head portion 222, 224 of the female fixation tab F is along a fold line 228 around the outer end 214 of the second opening in the second bottom panel 148. Folded upwards. By this means, the head portion of the female fixation tab F such that the individual distal edges 214, 236 of the male fixation tab and female fixation tabs M, F are located on the top or inner surface of the first bottom panel 146. 222, 224 are inserted into both the first opening and the second opening, and are thereby received in both of these openings. This condition is best shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, where a male securing tab M is shown in the folded position and a female securing tab F is shown in the holding position. When the male fixing tab and the female fixing tabs M and F are folded into the respective positions and are held in that position, the male fixing tab and the female fixing tabs M and F are positioned in their mutual bracing positions, They fold back to their respective original positions in which the male and female fixation tabs M, F are located in the respective planes of the second and first bottom panels 148, 146, respectively. To prevent. In the mutual bracing position, the head portions 222, 224 of the female fixation tab F can rest against and support the male fixation tab M so that the male fixation tab M rests against the distal edge 236 of the female fixation tab F. . In the alternative inter-bracing position, the male locking tab M rests on the head portion 222, 224 of the female locking tab F such that the head portion 222, 224 of the female locking tab F rests on the distal edge 214 of the male locking tab M. You can lean and support. However, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the male and female fixation tabs M, F are in another alternative bracing engagement relationship, with the concave shape of the distal edge 236 of the female fixation tab F being The notch portion 231 engages with a convex fixing tab 212 protruding from the distal end edge 214 of the male fixing tab M. FIG. 15 is a view from a hypothetical advantageous point below the carton 20 and shows the male and female locking tabs M and F engaged in this way. In this state, the panel interlock structure L is completely engaged.

  Note that the female locking tab F need not be folded into the 90 degree position shown in FIGS. FIG. 17 illustrates an alternative method in which the female fixation tab F has the free edge 156 of the second bottom panel 148 above the female fixation tab F and below the free edge 154 of the first bottom panel 146. It is pushed out of the plane of the first bottom panel 146 by an angle sufficient to slide and align the male securing tab M with the opening O. Next, both the female fixation tab F and the male fixation tab M can be forced upward through the opening O in a single action, such as by a single punch action for an automatic packaging facility. With particular reference to FIGS. 19-21, a punching action by applying a force (shown by an arrow) to drive the female fixing tab F upward through the opening O is shown. The female fixing tab F presses the male fixing tab M by this force, and the male fixing tab M is pushed upward as shown in FIG. When the female locking tab F is fully deployed, the concave notch 231 of the distal end edge 236 of the female locking tab F is brought upward, as shown in FIG. Engage with the convex locking tab 212 along the distal edge 214.

  Another exemplary method is illustrated as a series of steps shown in the partial perspective views of FIGS. When performing the folding operation described above in connection with the carton 20, the first bottom panel 146 and the second bottom panel 148 are initially each of the first side as shown in FIG. It may be arranged to extend downward from the panel 102 and the second side panel 104 (none of the side panels are shown in FIGS. 22-31). In FIG. 23, the female locking tab F is folded out of the plane of the first bottom panel 146 by an automatic packaging facility such as a punch or folding wheel, thereby defining an opening O. Next, in FIG. 24, the first bottom panel 146 is folded upward toward the inside of the carton 20 (not shown). After the first bottom panel 146 has moved to the substantially horizontal position shown in FIG. 25, or moved, the second bottom panel 148 is folded upward as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 27, the male fixing tab M is aligned with the opening O with the surface contact structure positioned below the first bottom panel 146. This method now proceeds as shown in FIGS. 19-21, with the female fixing tab F folded upward and positioned below the male fixing tab M. 28 and 29, when a force is applied below the female fixing tab F, the male driving tab M is driven through the opening O by this force, and thereby the tongue 206 and the shoulder portion 204 of the male fixing tab M. Through the opening O. 29 and 30, the male fixing tab M is subsequently forced upward through the opening O until the female fixing tab F is also driven through the opening O. As described above, the female fixation tab F and the male fixation tab M can support each other and engage each other along the notch portion 232 and the convex retaining tab 212.

  The present invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments that are not intended to be limiting in all respects but are intended to illustrate the present invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is capable of many modifications and variations without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, as used herein, references to directions such as top, bottom, bottom, end, side, interior, exterior, top, center, bottom, front and back, refer to the individual walls of the carton in this way. It is not limited to a simple orientation, it merely serves to distinguish these walls from each other. Any reference to a hinge connection must not be construed to mean a joint that includes only a single hinge; in fact, a hinge connection is potentially one or more potential for hinge connection materials. It is envisioned that it can be formed from entirely different means.

  The embodiments described above are merely illustrative examples of implementations shown for a clear understanding of the principles of the invention. Modifications, changes, and combinations thereof may be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the claims. All such changes, modifications and combinations thereof are encompassed herein by the scope of this disclosure and the following claims.

10 blank 20 carton 100 end flap 102 first side panel 104 second side panel 106 first end panel 108 second end panel 110 top edge of the carton transport compartment 112 bottom edge of the carton transport compartment 114, 116 118, 120, 128, 130, 132, 136, 139, 141, 143, 145, 150, 152, 208, 226, 228 Folding line 122 Central panel 124 Handle reinforcement panel 126 Divider panel 134 Edge flap 138 First divider Strip 140 Second divider strip 142 Third divider strip 144 Fourth divider strip 146 First bottom panel 148 Second bottom panel 154, 156 Free edge 202 Neck portion of male fixing tab 204 Male fixing Bed shoulder portions 206 male locking tab tongue 210 first arcuate separation line (convex retention tabs)
212 Second convex holding tab 214 Male fixing tab distal end 220 Female fixing tab neck portion 222 Female fixing tab shoulder portion 224 Female fixing tab bracing portion 230, 232 Convex holding tab 231 Concave notch Portion 236 Distal edge of female locking tab 238 External end of first opening O 240 Cavity defined in male locking tab

Claims (20)

A pair of first and second panels arranged in a superimposed relationship;
A pair of male and female fixing tabs that cooperate with each other to secure the first panel and the second panel together in the superimposed relationship;
A panel interlock structure comprising:
The female fixing tab is stamped out from the first panel, and a first opening is defined in the first panel when the female fixing tab is folded out of the plane of the first panel. Foldably connected to the first panel at its proximal edge,
The female securing tab includes a neck portion and a head portion hinged to the neck portion by a fold line, the neck portion extending between the fold line and the proximal end edge of the female securing tab. The head portion extends between the fold line and the distal edge of the female securing tab;
The male fixing tab is punched out of the second panel, and a second opening is defined in the second panel when the male fixing tab is folded out of the plane of the second panel. Foldably connected to the second panel at its proximal edge, the proximal edge of the male securing tab being disposed substantially parallel to the free edge of the second panel, and The second opening is located between
The first panel and the second panel have the first opening and the second opening substantially aligned, and a portion along the free edge of the second panel is the first panel. 1 is disposed so as to be disposed between the opening of 1 and the neck portion of the female fixing tab,
The male securing tab is folded out of the plane of the second panel and received within the first opening of the first panel to assume a folded position;
The female locking tab is configured such that the head portion of the female locking tab is received in the first opening and the second opening, and the head portion is in mutual bracing engagement with the male locking tab, A panel interlock structure in which the male fixing tab and the female fixing tab are folded along the folding line so that the male fixing tab and the female fixing tab are arranged at the holding position held at the folding position and the holding position, respectively. The distal edge of the female locking tab is opposite the proximal edge;
The male fixation tab has a distal edge opposite the proximal edge of the male fixation tab;
The panel interlock structure according to claim 1, wherein the distal end edges of the male fixing tab and the female fixing tab are disposed on one surface of the first panel.   The free edge of the second panel is disposed against the female securing tab such that the free edge of the second panel and the proximal edge of the female securing tab are substantially aligned. The panel interlock structure according to claim 1.   The panel interlock structure of claim 1, wherein a portion along the free edge of the second panel comprises a portion between the second opening and the free edge of the second panel. . The first opening of the first panel has an inner end to which the proximal end edge of the female securing tab is foldably connected;
The panel interlock structure according to claim 1, wherein the male fixing tab located in the folded position engages with an outer end of the first opening opposite to the inner end. The second opening of the second panel has an inner end to which the proximal end edge of the male securing tab is foldably connected;
2. The panel interlock structure according to claim 1, wherein the head portion of the female fixing tab located in the holding position engages with an outer end of the second opening opposite to the inner end thereof. .   The panel interlock structure according to claim 2, wherein the head portion of the female fixing tab located at the holding position leans against and supports the male fixing tab.   The panel interlock structure of claim 7, wherein the male securing tab rests against the distal edge of the head portion of the female securing tab.   The panel interlock structure according to claim 2, wherein the male fixing tab positioned at the folding position is supported by leaning against the head portion of the female fixing tab.   The panel interlock structure of claim 9, wherein the head portion of the female locking tab rests against the distal edge of the male locking tab.   The panel interface according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the male fixing tab and the female fixing tab includes a shoulder portion that is substantially wider than a remaining portion of at least one of the male fixing tab and the female fixing tab. Lock structure. One of the male and female fixation tabs comprises an extension tab protruding from the distal edge of one of the male and female fixation tabs;
The panel interlock structure according to claim 2, wherein the other fixing tab of the male fixing tab and the female fixing tab includes a complementary cutout portion for receiving the expansion tab. A blank for forming a panel interlock structure,
When the panel interlock structure is formed, a pair of a first panel and a second panel that are arranged in an overlapping relationship;
A pair of male and female fixing tabs that cooperate with each other to secure the first panel and the second panel together in the superimposed relationship;
In a blank comprising
The female fixation tab is punched out of the first panel and receives both the male fixation tab and the female fixation tab when the female fixation tab is folded out of the plane of the first panel. Foldably connected to the first panel at its proximal edge so that a first opening is defined in the first panel;
The female securing tab includes a neck portion and a head portion hinged to the neck portion by a fold line, the neck portion extending between the fold line and the proximal end edge of the female securing tab. The head portion extends between the fold line and the distal edge of the female securing tab;
The male fixing tab is punched out of the second panel, and when the male fixing tab is folded out of the plane of the second panel, a second opening for receiving the female fixing tab is provided in the first panel. Foldably connected to the second panel at its proximal edge as defined in the two panels;
The blank, wherein the proximal end edge of the male securing tab is disposed substantially parallel to the free edge of the second panel and the second opening is located therebetween.   The at least one of the male fixation tab and the female fixation tab comprises a shoulder portion that is substantially wider than a remaining portion of at least one of the male fixation tab and the female fixation tab. blank. One of the male fixation tab and the female fixation tab comprises an extension tab protruding from a distal edge of one of the male fixation tab and the female fixation tab;
14. The blank of claim 13, wherein the other securing tab of the male securing tab and the female securing tab comprises a complementary cut-out portion for receiving the expansion tab. A pair of first and second panels arranged in a superimposed relationship;
A pair of male and female fixing tabs that cooperate with each other to secure the first panel and the second panel together in the superimposed relationship;
A carton with
The female fixing tab is punched out of the first panel, and a first opening is defined in the first panel when the female fixing tab is folded out of the plane of the first panel. Foldably connected to the first panel at its proximal edge,
The female securing tab includes a neck portion and a head portion hinged to the neck portion by a fold line, the neck portion extending between the fold line and the proximal end edge of the female securing tab. The head portion extends between the fold line and the distal edge of the female securing tab;
The male fixing tab is punched out of the second panel, and a second opening is defined in the second panel when the male fixing tab is folded out of the plane of the second panel. Foldably connected to the second panel at its proximal edge,
The proximal end edge of the male securing tab is disposed substantially parallel to the free edge of the second panel, with the second opening positioned therebetween;
The first panel and the second panel have the first opening and the second opening substantially aligned, and a portion along the free edge of the second panel is the first panel. Disposed so as to be disposed between the opening of 1 and the neck portion of the female fixing tab;
The male securing tab is folded out of the plane of the second panel and received within the first opening of the first panel to assume a folded position;
The female locking tab is configured such that the head portion of the female locking tab is received in the first opening and the second opening, and the head portion is in mutual bracing engagement with the male locking tab, The carton is folded along the folding line so that the male fixing tab and the female fixing tab are arranged at the holding position held at the folding position and the holding position, respectively. The distal edge of the female securing tab is opposite the proximal edge;
The male fixation tab has a distal edge opposite the proximal edge of the male fixation tab;
The carton of claim 16, wherein the distal edges of the male and female fixation tabs are disposed on one side of the first panel.   The free edge of the second panel is disposed against the female fixation tab such that the free edge of the second panel and the proximal edge of the female fixation tab are substantially aligned. The carton according to claim 16. The first opening of the first panel has an inner end to which the proximal end edge of the female securing tab is foldably connected;
The carton of claim 16, wherein the male securing tab located in the folded position engages an outer end of the first opening opposite to the inner end thereof. The second opening of the second panel has an inner end to which the proximal end edge of the male securing tab is foldably connected;
The carton of claim 16, wherein the head portion of the female securing tab located in the holding position engages an outer end of the second opening opposite to the inner end thereof.

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