US20030111521A1

US20030111521A1 - Gift packaging and method of manufacture thereof

Info

Publication number: US20030111521A1
Application number: US10/015,766
Authority: US
Inventors: Gordon Holmes
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2001-12-17
Filing date: 2001-12-17
Publication date: 2003-06-19

Abstract

A package that is movable between a collapsed position and an uncollapsed position is formed from at least three panels coupled to one another to form a panel assembly. A series of lower flaps are coupled the lower edges of the panels and interlock to form a permanent closure at a lower end of the panel assembly. A foldable flap coupled to one of the panels and interlocking with another of the panels to form an openable closure at the upper end of the panel assembly. The enclosure formed by the panels, the lower flaps and the upper flaps is foldable into a generally flat collapsed configuration in a plane containing a folding axis that is provided in the permanent closure.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates in general to packaging, and more particularly to new and useful package design and method of manufacture thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Over the years, it has been traditional on various gift giving occasions to place a gift in a two-piece box having a tray and lid configuration, and then overwrap the box with ornamental gift wrap, ribbons, bows, gift card, etc. Set-up or rigid boxes were in common use years ago but have largely been replaced by folding boxes of a two-piece construction, or varying combinations thereof, wherein the box and lid are hinged together as one entity. It has been found that the complex design of such prior art folded boxes causes difficulties for the unskilled consumer in assembling the box and wrapping it.

Various types of preformed or pre-wrapped gift packages have been attempted in the past with minor success due to their complexity, high cost or laborious assembly requirements or display problems. One such prior art pre-wrapped gift package is in the form of a hand-made gift bag, usually made in the orient. This gift bag design has enjoyed considerable success over a 15 year period. The bag is available with fine floral reproductions and full colour graphics, film lamination, and silk cords with eyelet reinforcements. This form of gift package requires simply the opening of the bag, insertion of the gift and then a pull on the silk cord of the bag to provide a carrying handle. The major disadvantage of such prior art gift bags is the cost, since such bags are of hand-made construction. As a result, prior art hand-made gift bags continue to be somewhat of a “carriage-trade” item.

The other disadvantage with the bag is that most are made with two handles on either side of the bag top and the gift is ‘open’ for view, which removes the fun and surprise elements of receiving a gift, particularly for children but also for adults. If the gift is stored in a gift bag, children usually discover what they are getting even before the gift occasion arrives.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides a package that is openable from a flat, collapsed form into a form in which a gift, or other item, can be placed. The package is sealable and has a decorative appearance, which alleviates the need for wrapping or decoration of the box. Other applications for the package include storage of consumer products, commercial products or novelty items, for retail sale.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a package that is movable between a collapsed position and an uncollapsed position, said package comprising: at least three panels, each of said panels having a pair of opposing side edges, an upper edge and a lower edge, said panels being coupled to one another along said side edges in series to form a panel assembly; a series of lower flaps coupled to at least two of said lower edges of said at least three panels, said lower flaps interlocking to form a permanent closure at a lower end of said panel assembly; said permanent closure having a folding axis; a foldable flap coupled to at least one of said upper edges of said at least three panels, said foldable flap being interlockable with at least one of said at least three panels to form an openable closure at an upper end of said panel assembly; an enclosure formed by said panel assembly, said series of lower flaps and said series of upper flaps, said enclosure being foldable into a generally flat collapsed configuration; and wherein said package is collapsed into a plane containing said folding axis of said permanent closure

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a package that is movable between a collapsed position and an uncollapsed position, said package comprising: a front panel, a rear panel and two side panels, each panel having a pair of opposing side edges, an upper edge and a lower edge, said side panels being coupled between said front panel and said rear panel to form a panel assembly; a first flap extending along said lower edges of said side panels and said front panel, said first flap comprising a central portion coupled to said lower edge of said front panel and end tabs coupled to said lower edges of said side panels; a second flap coupled to said rear panel, said first and second flaps interlocking to form a closure at a lower end of said panel assembly; a third flap coupled to said upper edge of said front panel, a fourth flap coupled to said rear panel, said third and fourth flaps interlocking to form a second closure at an upper end of said panel assembly; an enclosure formed by said panel assembly, said first flap, said second flap, said third flap and said fourth flap, said enclosure being foldable into a generally flat collapsed configuration.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a package that is movable between a collapsed position and an uncollapsed position, said package comprising: at least three panels, each of said panels having a pair of opposing side edges, an upper edge and a lower edge, said panels being coupled to one another along said side edges in series to form a panel assembly; a series of lower flaps coupled to said lower edges of said at least three panels, said lower flaps interlocking to form a permanent closure at a lower end of said panel assembly; said permanent closure having at least one folding axis; a series of upper flaps coupled to said upper edges of said at least three panels, said series of upper flaps being interlockable to form an openable closure at an upper end of said panel assembly; an enclosure formed by said panel assembly, said series of lower flaps and said series of upper flaps, said enclosure being foldable into a generally flat collapsed configuration; and wherein said package is collapsable into a plane containing said at least one folding axis of said permanent closure.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a package that is movable between a collapsed position and an uncollapsed position, said package comprising: at least three panels, each of said panels having a pair of opposing side edges, a first edge and an opposing second edge, said panels being coupled to one another along said side edges in series to form a panel assembly; a first series of flaps coupled to said first edges of said at least three panels, said first series of flaps interlocking to form a first openable closure at a first end of said panel assembly; a second series of flaps coupled to said second edges of said at least three panels, said second series of flaps being interlockable to form a second openable closure at a second end of said panel assembly; an enclosure formed by said panel assembly, said first series of flaps and said second series of flaps, said enclosure being foldable into a generally flat collapsed configuration; and wherein when said package is in said uncollapsed position said side edges of said panels are maintained in a generally horizontal orientation.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a card for attaching to a panel of a package, said card comprising: a card panel having a first edge; a flap being coupled to said first edge of said card panel; said flap being rotatable about said first edge; said flap having locking portions sized to overhang both ends of said first edge; wherein said flap is insertable into a slot formed in said panel of said package with said locking portions of said flap abut an opposing side of said panel to secure said card to said package.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a securing closure for a box having at least four side panels, said securing closure comprising: a first flap coupled to a first upper edge of a first of said at least four side panels, said first flap tapering between said first upper edge and a free end; an enlarged portion located at said free end of said first flap; an aperture formed in said flap adjacent said first upper edge, said first flap being split into two individual flaps between said aperture and said free end; said two individual flaps being movable to partially overlap one another to form a reduced enlarged portion having a maximum width; a second flap coupled to a second upper edge of a second side panel, said second panel being located on an opposite side of said box from said first of said at least four side panels; a slot formed in said second flap, said slot being located adjacent said second upper edge; said slot being sized to receive said reduced enlarged portion; wherein to secure said securing closure said two individual flaps are overlapped and said reduced enlarged portion is inserted through said slot, once through said slot, said two individual flaps return to an non-overlapping configuration and said enlarged portion secures said first flap in a closed position.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a securing closure for a box having at least four side panels, said securing closure comprising: a locking flap coupled to a first upper edge of a first of said at least four side panels and foldable relative thereto; a tab located at a free end of said locking flap, said width of said tab being adjustable between a minimum width and a maximum width; a second flap coupled to a second upper edge of a second of said at least four side panels and foldable relative thereto; a slot formed in said second flap and located adjacent said second upper edge; said slot being sized to receive said minimum width of said tab; wherein to secure said securing closure said width of said tab is adjusted to said minimum width and is inserted through said slot, once through said slot, said width of said tab returns to said maximum width said tab secures said locking flap in a closed position.

It is an advantage of an aspect of the present invention that a package having a unique shape and style is provided.

It is a further advantage of an aspect of the present invention that a package can be sold in a collapsed position and can be quickly and easily erected by a user so that a gift can be inserted into the package.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A detailed description of embodiments of the invention is provided below with reference to the following drawings in which: [0015]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a satchel shaped package according to the preferred embodiment; [0016]
FIG. 2 is a plan view of the package shown in FIG. 1 prior to assembly; [0017]
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the package of FIG. 1 in an assembled and collapsed form; [0018]
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the package of FIG. 1 in an assembled and uncollapsed form; [0019]
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a satchel shaped package according to a first alternative embodiment; [0020]
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a satchel shaped package according to a second alternative embodiment; [0021]
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a satchel shaped package according to a third alternative embodiment; [0022]
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a satchel shaped package according to a fourth alternative embodiment; [0023]
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a satchel shaped package according to a fifth alternative embodiment; [0024]
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a satchel shaped package according to a sixth alternative embodiment; [0025]
FIG. 11 is a plan view of two FIG. 10 packages of prior to assembly; [0026]
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of two satchel shaped packages according to seventh and eighth alternative embodiments; [0027]
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of two satchel shaped packages according to ninth and tenth alternative embodiments; [0028]
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of three satchel shaped packages according to eleventh, twelfth and thirteenth alternative embodiments; [0029]
FIG. 15[0030] a is a plan view of the package shown in FIG. 5 prior to assembly;
FIG. 15[0031] b is a plan view of the fifth alternate embodiment of the package shown in FIG. 9 prior to assembly;
FIG. 16 is a plan view of package shown in FIG. 10 prior to assembly; [0032]
FIG. 17 is a bottom view of the package of FIG. 16 in the assembled condition; [0033]
FIG. 18 is a partial side view of the fifth alternative embodiment of FIG. 9; [0034]
FIG. 19([0035] a) is a plan view of a first embodiment of a gift card of the present invention;
FIG. 19([0036] b) is a plan view of a second embodiment of a gift card according to the present invention,
FIG. 19([0037] c) is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a gift card of the present invention;
FIG. 19([0038] d) is a plan view of a fourth embodiment of a gift card of the present invention.
FIG. 19([0039] e) is a perspective view of the gift card of FIG. 19(d) being inserted into a slot of a package;
FIG. 19([0040] f) is a front view of the gift card of FIG. 19(d) assembled in a slot of a package;
FIG. 19([0041] g) is a front view of a slot of a package;
FIG. 19([0042] f) is an enlarged perspective view of the gift card of FIG. 19(d) assembled in a slot of a package;
FIG. 20 is a plan view of a first embodiment of a package having a box shape with rectangular ends of the present invention prior to assembly; [0043]
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the package of FIG. 20 in an open condition; [0044]
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the package of FIG. 20 in a partially assembled condition; [0045]
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the package of FIG. 20 in a further partially assembled condition; [0046]
FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the package of FIG. 20 in the assembled condition; [0047]
FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing the fully assembled package according to the embodiment of FIGS. [0048] 20 to 24;
FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a gift card for use with the package embodiment of FIGS. [0049] 20 to 25.
FIG. 27 is a plan view of a second embodiment of a package having a box shape with rectangular ends of the present invention prior to assembly; [0050]
FIG. 28 is a plan view of a third embodiment of a package having a box shape with rectangular ends of the present invention prior to assembly; [0051]
FIG. 29 is also a plan view of a third embodiment of a box shaped package of the present invention prior to assembly; [0052]
FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a package having a box shape with square ends of the present invention; [0053]
FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a package having a box shape with square ends of the present invention; [0054]
FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a package having a box shape with square ends of the present invention; [0055]
FIG. 32[0056] b is an inside perspective view of the inside of the package of FIG. 30;
FIG. 33 is a plan view of the package of FIG. 30 prior to assembly; [0057]
FIG. 34 is also a plan view of the package of FIG. 30 prior to assembly; [0058]
FIG. 34[0059] a is a further embodiment of an edge of the package of FIGS. 30, 31 and 32.
FIG. 34[0060] b is yet a further embodiment of an edge of the package of FIGS. 30, 31 and 32.
FIG. 34[0061] c is a blank of an alternate embodiment of a package having a box shape with square ends of the present invention;
FIG. 34[0062] d is an inside perspective view of the package of FIG. 34c;
FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a package having triangular ends of the present invention; [0063]
FIG. 36 is a plan view of the package of FIG. 35 prior to assembly; [0064]
FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a package having triangular shaped ends of the present invention; [0065]
FIG. 38 is a plan view of the package of FIG. 37 prior to assembly; [0066]
FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a package having hexagonal shaped ends of the present invention; [0067]
FIG. 40 is a plan view of the package of FIG. 39 prior to assembly; [0068]
FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a mailing box of the present invention in a partially closed condition; [0069]
FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the mailing box of FIG. 41 in second partially closed condition; [0070]
FIG. 43 is a top view of the mailing box of FIG. 41; [0071]
FIG. 44 is a top perspective view of the mailing box of FIG. 41; [0072]
FIG. 45 is a plan view of the mailing box of FIG. 41 prior to assembly; [0073]
FIG. 46 is a plan view of a second embodiment of a mailing box of the present invention; [0074]
FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a mailing box of the present invention in a partially closed position; and [0075]
FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the mailing box of FIG. 47 in a closed position.[0076]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Turning to FIG. 1, a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown in the form of a [0077] package 1. The package 1 is shaped like a satchel and is typically used to carry gift items. The package 1 comprises a front panel 3, a rear panel 5, side panels 7, a top portion 9, and a bottom panel. The right side and bottom panels are not shown in FIG. 1. A handle is formed in the top portion 9, by a generally trapezoidal aperture 11 and top folded flap 13. Each side panel incorporates a pair of gussets 15 and 17 such that when both gussets are open, as shown in FIG. 1, the package 1 assumes a wide shape for carrying bulky items such as coffee mugs, for example. As discussed in greater detail below with reference to FIG. 9, the top gusset 17 may be collapsed such that the package assumes a more tapered appearance for carrying less bulky items. A unique elongated aperture 19 is provided in the front panel 3 for receiving a gift card 21 and locking the card in position, the gift card 21 will be described in detail later in reference to FIGS. 19(a) to 19(h).
With reference to FIG. 2, a paperboard blank is shown for the [0078] package 1 of FIG. 1. An important aspect of the preferred embodiment is the construction of a securing closure. A strengthened bottom of the securing closure comprises inner panel 23 which extends the full width of the bottom and is supported from below by three glued flaps 25, 27 and 29 corresponding to the three remaining sides of the package. Specifically, flaps 25 and 29 are each shown with perforated fold lines. The distal portions of flaps 25 and 29 beyond the perforated fold lines are glued to flap 27 and inner panel 23, respectively. The plurality of “X” marks indicates portions of the blank to which glue is applied during the manufacturing steps in the production of the package 1. In the cases where the “X” marks are shown with dashed lines, this indicates that the glue is applied to the opposite side of the blank.
To assemble the securing closure, all of the [0079] flaps 25, 27 and 29 are folded up against the inside of the package 1. The distal portions of flaps 25 and 29 are then reverse folded and glue is applied to the printed side thereof. The package is then assembled so that a side flap 24 is glued to the side panel 7 adjacent the free edge thereof and flap 29 is glued to inner panel 23 and flap 25 is glued to flap 27. The un-glued side of flap 25 is received between the un-glued portion of flap 29 and inner panel 23, such that the full inner panel 23 is supported from below by all three flaps 25, 27 and 29. The areas on flaps 25 and 29 that receive the glue are typically un-printed in order to improve adhesion.
The package is movable between a flat state, shown in FIG. 3, and an open state, shown in FIG. 4. No user assembly is required. [0080]
Another unique feature of this invention is the use of the simple-to-[0081] close handle 11, which is integral to the construction of the package 1. As discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the handle comprises a foldable flap 13 in combination with aperture 11. As shown in FIG. 2, the aperture 11 is formed in each of the front and rear panels of the package 1, and the two apertures 11 also include folding tongues 31 and 33. The flap 13 also includes a folding tongue 35.
In use, the handle is formed by folding [0082] flap 13 over the front panel 3 and inserting tongue portion 35 through both apertures 11 so as to tuck the additional tongue portions 31 and 33 inwardly. The aperture 11 is preferably made wide at the bottom and narrow at the top so that it is generally trapezoidal shaped. The tongue portion 35 is constructed to be of a width corresponding to the width of the bottom portion aperture 11, such that upon inserting the tongue portion 35 into the aperture 11, the tongue 35, along with tongue portions 31 and 33, enter into locking engagement within the aperture 11. The handle is sized to fit a user's hand so that the package 1 can be carried comfortably.
As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cut out [0083] apertures 11 may be rounded adjacent folding tongues 31 and 33 so as to reduce the likelihood of the tongue portion 35 ripping the package due to notch effect at the joinder of the folding tongues 31 and 33 with respective apertures 11. Thus, in the final folded form of FIG. 1, the handle is reinforced by the flap 13, the portions of the front and rear panels which lie above each of the apertures 11 and the overlapped tongue portions 31, 33 and 35. The three folded tongue portions 31, 33 and 35 result in a strong handle that resists accidental breakage when in use. Furthermore, the triangular or A-framed side profile of the package, which can be seen in FIG. 1, results in the folding tongue 35 resting against a flat surface (i.e. rear panel of the package) rather than pulling against the rear panel at the joinder between tongue 33 and respective aperture 11.
As shown in FIG. 2, additional [0084] elongated apertures 37 and 39 may be provided on the front panel 3 for receiving additional tongue portions 41 and 43 which serve to prevent distal edges of the panel 13 from spreading open as a result of spring action due to the gusset 15 and 17 on each side when the package is closed.
Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4. the [0085] package 1 is movable between a collapsed position, shown in FIG. 3, and an uncollapsed position, shown in FIG. 4.
FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the [0086] package 1 according to the present invention without the aperture 19 on the front panel 3, but with a gift card 21 secured to the front panel 3 by a pressure sensitive glue strip, for example. Furthermore, the embodiment of FIG. 5 does not include a handle.
FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of the invention without an accompanying [0087] gift card 21.
FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the invention with thinner dimensions than the embodiment of FIGS. [0088] 1 to 6. No handle is provided, due to size limitations, the flap 13 merely folds into an elongated aperture 11 that is located in the front panel 3.
FIG. 8 shows a further embodiment having intermediate dimensions between the embodiment of FIGS. [0089] 1 to 6 and the embodiment of FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 shows an embodiment having festive decoration applied thereto, and in which the [0090] gussets 17 are collapsed to form a tapered appearance for carrying compressible articles such as socks, ties, or underwear, for example.
According to the embodiment of FIG. 10, no additional side flaps [0091] 41 and 43, shown in FIG. 2, are provided on the top panel 13.
FIG. 11 shows two packages of the variety shown in FIG. 10, and a [0092] single gift card 21 intermediate the two packages. The packages and gift card 21 are arranged in an economical manner intended to conserve paperboard. Several packages may be included on one paperboard. The number of packages is limited by the size of the press.
Further embodiments of the [0093] package 1 are shown in FIGS. 12, 13 and 14, some of which include handles or cords. VELCRO™ pads 48 and 50 are provided in trapezoidal configuration so as to prevent delamination of the VELCRO™ strips during the pulling action which occurs when opening the flap 13.
FIG. 15[0094] a shows a blank cut-out, or die line, for the embodiment of FIG. 5. FIG. 15b shows a blank cut-out for the embodiment of FIG. 9.
FIG. 16 shows a single blank cut-out corresponding to the die-cutting arrangement of FIG. 11. [0095]
FIG. 17 is a bottom view showing the configuration of the three [0096] inner flaps 25, 27 an 29, and the full width flap 23 when fully assembled.
FIG. 18 shows a detail of a handle and [0097] gift card 21 portion of the embodiment of FIG. 1.
FIGS. [0098] 19(a), (b) and (c) show various alternative embodiments of the gift card 21. In the embodiment of FIG. 19(a), the card is rectangular and folded in half along the shorter side, whereas in FIG. 19(c), the gift card is rectangular but folded along the larger dimension. FIG. 19(c) also shows a peel-off adhesive section 51. In the embodiment of FIG. 19(b), the card 29 is not folded in half, however an elongated locking head portion 53 is provided for insertion into the elongated aperture 19 of front panel 3.
FIG. 19([0099] d) shows a further alternative embodiment of the gift card 21. The gift card 21 has an elongated locking head portion 53 having locking portions 55 and a more rounded shape than that shown in FIG. 19(b). In addition, the gift card 21 has a trapezoidal shaped tab 54 extending from a message panel 56 of the gift card 21. The tab 54 is cut from the elongated locking head portion 53 so that a matching cut out 57 is formed therein. Referring to FIGS. 19(e) and 19(f), the tab 54 abuts the front panel 3 when the gift card 21 is inserted into the elongated aperture 19 and serves to prevent the gift card 21 from lifting off the front panel 3.
Referring to FIG. 19([0100] g), an alternative embodiment of the elongated aperture 19 is shown. The slot is typically approximately ⅛ inches wide and between 1 and 1.25 inches long. The elongated aperture 19 includes a receiving tab 58 that is located approximately midway along a bottom edge of the elongated aperture 19 and extends upwardly therefrom. Referring to FIG. 19(h), the receiving tab 58 extends through cut out 57 to secure the gift card 21 in the correct position on the front panel 3.
The [0101] gift card 21 is typically matched to the graphics and colours of the package 1 that it is attached to. Additionally, if the package has a decorative pattern, the decorative pattern of the gift card 21 could be aligned so as blend into the package.
It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the [0102] gift card 21 could be replaced with a card having a different purpose. For example, if the package 1 is used to carry a consumer product, such as cosmetics, the gift card 21 may be a price card or a card that describes the contents of the package to a consumer.
According to an aspect of the invention, gift wrap design may be applied via lamination to the paperboard substrate prior to die-cutting of the paperboard. The resulting product therefore is provided with an attractive outer appearance. For retail use, the substrate may be in the form of paperboard (e.g. c.c.n.b. or s.b.s. in callipers ranging from 0.12″ to 0.20″). Fine lithography gift wrap may be printed directly onto the paperboard in from one to six colours and varnish may be added to enhance the finish. Furthermore, embossing, hot stamping, silk screening, UV coatings, film, and laminated foil, for example, may all be applied for special visual effects and enhanced appearance. [0103]
Normal lamination of paper to paperboard is almost useless because of cracking which would occur on almost all of the creases. The addition of a lamination of clear plastic film (e.g. approximately 0.0003″ clear polypropylene or mylar) adds strength and prevents cracking on the creases. The lamination also improves the anti-tear characteristics of the paperboard. [0104]
A novel methodology has been utilized to apply the gift wrap coating via lamination to the paperboard. Specifically, in order to die-cut paperboard which has gift wrapped paper laminated thereto, the sheet must be capable of withstanding tons of pressure applied along the creasing rule and cutting rule on the die press. When folding the substrate along the creases when assembling the package, some creases will bend 90° or 180°. In so doing, laminated paper is forced to stretch beyond its limit and it is possible that the dry, thin outer paper skin will crack and become discoloured. Therefore, a third lamination is applied to the top of the gift wrap paper. A strong, transparent film is used for the lamination. The film has sufficient strength and resilience to withstand the heavy pressures of the die-cutting and subsequent fabricating steps and can bend around the die-cut creases (up to 180°) without cracking or splitting. [0105]
The triple laminate can be applied by sheet lamination onto the paperboard or preferably on a high speed, roll to roll laminator. The allows new or existing rolls of gift wrap to be used, which obviates the need for highly priced art work, films and printing plates. Additionally, the roll to roll lamination saves time particularly when numerous patterns are needed for a full package range. [0106]
According to the preferred embodiment, three rolls of material (i.e. paperboard substrate, gift wrap paper and clear durable film) are simultaneously laminated in a single run and sheeted at the delivery end of the laminator. [0107]
The paperboard substrate may in many cases be in the form of 0.010″ to 0.015″ s.b.s or c.c.n.b., in roll form. The gift wrap paper is laminated to the paperboard substrate, and is also provided in roll stock. The final clear film layer, which is typically polyester or polypropylene, is also laminated to the gift wrap layer to a thickness of 0.002″ to 0.003″. When using p.c.n.b., it is preferable to laminate the newsback side of the paperboard so that the resulting package is provided with a snow white interior. [0108]
By changing the rolls of gift wrap during the three-roll lamination run, at least two or three dozen gift wrap designs may be provided, yet at the die-cutting and finishing stage all the resulting die-cut packages are die-cut and glued as one single production run of finished boxes. The final result has the benefits of one large production run. Thus, it is possible to supply gift shops, or card counters, for example, with a wide range of different package designs and colours and in several sizes, with gift cards to match, all produced at the same time in the same colourful, high gloss selection of gift wrap material. [0109]
According to another alternative embodiment, a clear polyester film may be reverse printed with the gift wrap design and then laminated to 0.015 c.c.n.b. paperboard. This results in a package that has gift wrap graphics, high gloss sparkle and with tremendous strength and durability. This is used in place of the gift wrap paper and provides a unique look to the packages. [0110]
The type of finish used for the packages is determined largely by the number of packages that are to be produced. For smaller volumes, it is more economical to use a triple lamination finish or, alternatively, print directly on the paperboard and add an UV coating for protection and high-gloss shine. The reverse printing embodiment is more suited to large volume package production. The quality of finish is approximately the same and each of the finishes can be cleaned with a damp cloth. [0111]
Turning to FIGS. [0112] 20 to 27, an embodiment of the invention is shown in which the overall “satchel shape” of the prior discussed embodiments is replaced with a box shape having rectangular ends. The method of manufacture of the triple laminated die cut paperboard for creating the package is the same.
FIG. 20 shows a package blank [0113] 60 having projecting end tabs 63 and 65, and a first central folding tab 67 including a tongue portion 69 and triangular portions 71 and 73. The corners of the triangular end portions 71 and 73 are cropped adjacent the central folding tab 67 so that tongue portion 69 can move more easily. The identical construction is provided on an opposite side of the front panel. On the rear panel, centrally disposed tongues 75 are provided on opposite sides, each with a central circular finger hole 77, locking portion 79, and elongated slots 81. Central circular finger hole 77 is provided to facilitate opening of the end closure for gift removal.
During initial assembly, glue is applied to a [0114] side flap 83 and the blank 60 is folded over for glue bonding to opposite side flap 85. This is known in the industry as straight line gluing.
As shown in FIG. 21, one end of the box is closed and the other end is opened, ready for assembly. The assembly step is shown in FIG. 22, by which [0115] triangular portions 71 and 73 are pressed inwardly and the side tabs 63 and 65 are folded downwardly. Next, with reference to FIG. 23, the panel 75 is folded firmly downward and opposite ends of the locking member 79 are firmly engaged underneath side tabs 63 and 65. The finger hole 77 provides an easy opening feature for removal of the gift. Finally, with reference to FIG. 24, the tab 67 is folded downwardly and tongue portion 69 is inserted into the slot 81 for self-locking.
Oval cut [0116] outs 91′ are provided for reducing the bulk and spring action on the 180 degree fold of flaps 63 and 65. The oval cut outs 91′ allow the package 1 to be easier to open and close. The single oval cut out 91′ is typically a ⅛ inch slot.
The final product is shown with reference to FIG. 25. As discussed above, the gift wrap decoration along with ribbon design, is applied to the paperboard prior to die-cutting. Thus, the final product has the appearance of a gift wrapped box yet no tape, ribbon, or gift wrapping is required. The final product overcomes the prior art disadvantage of buying or locating plain boxes, buying wrapping paper, tags, ribbon and bows, cutting paper to correct size, buying and finding the scotch tape and slowly completing the job which otherwise could be finished in seconds with the invention as described. [0117]
Furthermore, the gift wrapped box of the present invention locks more neatly and more securely than in the prior art with less danger of popping open. FIG. 26 shows a [0118] gift card 21 having adhesive strip 51 for use with the package 1 shown in FIGS. 20 to 26. The gift card 21 of FIG. 26 is similar to the gift card of FIG. 19(c), which has been previously described.
FIG. 27 illustrates the use of two [0119] slots 81′ in place of a single long slot. This type of closure is useful in cases where the box is relatively wide. Double tongue portions or tuck tabs 69′ extend from the flap 67 for mating with the slots 81′. Two properly spaced tuck tabs 69′ provide a stronger and neater closure than a single tongue portion 69. A series of oval cut outs 91 are provided, instead of the single oval cut out 91′ of FIG. 20, for reducing the bulk and spring action on the 180 degree fold of flaps 63 and 65. The single oval cut out 91′ is preferred because it is less bulky than the series of cut outs 91.
Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, a further alternative embodiment of the [0120] package 1 of FIGS. 20 to 26 is shown. In this embodiment, tuck tabs 69′′ are rounded in order to facilitate insertion into slots 81′. In addition, elongated slot 19 is shown on the front panel of the package 1.
Turning to FIGS. [0121] 30 to 34, an embodiment of the invention is shown in which the box shape having rectangular ends of the prior discussed embodiments is replaced with a box shape having square ends. The method of manufacture of the triple laminated die cut paperboard for creating the package is the same as was previously described for the satchel shaped package.
FIG. 30 shows a cube shaped package having a panel assembly comprising a [0122] front panel 92, a rear panel 94 (shown in FIGS. 33 and 34) and two foldable side panels 96. The package comprises die cut scores 100 formed in the side edges thereof. The scores 100 are sculpted in the shape of ellipses. Two false creases 102 and 104 are formed on opposite sides of each score 100 in order to allow a flat blank to be used. The creases 102, 104 are produced by the die, which is programmed to penetrate about ⅓ of the depth of the paperboard in order to form the creases 102, 104.
Referring to FIGS. 33 and 34, blanks for the [0123] package 1 of FIG. 30 are shown. The blank of FIG. 34 includes a gift card 21. A permanent closure is formed from a flap assembly 10. Flap assembly 110 comprises a front flap 112, a rear flap 114, and side tabs 116. Side flaps 116 are separated by a single long slot 118 at the location between the front and rear flaps 112 and 114. Side flaps 116 are divided along a folding axis 120 into a free portion 122 and a securing portion 124.
To assemble the [0124] package 1, front flap 112 is glued to rear flap 114 and is folded 180 degrees along a folding axis 126 so that an inner surface of rear flap 114. The securing portions 124 of the side flaps 116 are folded 180 degrees along lower edge 128 and glued to the lower portion of the foldable side panel 96 that is adjacent thereto. The flaps 112 and 116 are glued at high speed using traditional carton gluing machines in the industry. FIG. 32b shows permanent closure from the interior of the package 1. The full double bottom panel provides additional strength to the permanent closure at the bottom of the package 1.
The [0125] package 1 further comprises apertures 130 located at the corners of side flaps 116 to facilitate folding thereof and to reduce corner stress. In addition, tabs 115 extend from side edges of the rear flap 114 to abut the side panels 96 near the bottom edge 128 thereof in order to help form a rigid bottom for the package 1 when it is in the uncollapsed position. In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 32b, the tabs 115 may extend from the forward free edge of the front flap 112. It is also possible to combine the embodiments in order to include two sets of tabs.
The user can move the [0126] package 1 from a collapsed position, in which the package is flattened with the side panels 96 folded in half about folding edges 97, to an uncollapsed position in which the package 1 is cuboid shaped. To do this, the user simply squeezes opposing folding edges 97 of foldable side panels 96 and the package 1 snaps into cuboid form ready for a gift to be placed in the package 1.
Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, two further embodiments of rectangular shaped [0127] packages 1 having square ends are shown. FIG. 31 shows the scores 100 being printed with a contrasting colour. The scores 100 can be printed with contrasting colours or with gold ink, gold bronzing or gold stamping, for example. The elliptical scores 100 of the embodiment of FIG. 32 are more elongated than the scores of FIGS. 30 and 31. The package of FIG. 32 further includes a bow 106 that may be secured to the top or a side thereof. It is also possible to have more than one score 100 per edge. Referring to FIGS. 34a and 34 b, further embodiments of scores 100 are shown. FIG. 34a shows a diamond shaped score and FIG. 34b shows two circular scores 100 on either side of an elliptical shaped score 100.
Referring to FIG. 34[0128] c, a further embodiment of a package 1 in the shape of a box having square ends is shown. The package 1 is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 30 with the exception that the permanent closure on the bottom is simpler in construction. Where the embodiments are similar, like reference numerals will be used to denote like parts.
The [0129] flap assembly 110′ of FIG. 34c includes a front flap 112′ and a rear flap 114′. Rear flap 114′ further includes wings 117 that extend from the side edges thereof. The wings 117 extend between the lower edge 128 of the rear panel 94 and the forward free edge of the rear flap 114′ and are tapered in shape. Tabs 115′ extend from the forward free edge of the rear flap 114′. The front flap 112′ includes slots 119 that receive the tabs 115′ when the package 1 is in the assembled, uncollapsed position.
The panels of the [0130] package 1 are assembled and glued as has been previously described. The securing closure is assembled by gluing the front flap 112′ to the rear flap 114′, so that the rear flap 114′ and wings 117 are folded up into the package 1. When the front flap 112′ is moved from a collapsed and an uncollapsed position, the front flap 112′ unfolds 180 degrees along a folding axis 126′ to form a flat bottom. The rear flap 114′ abuts the front flap 112′ to form the inner portion of the double bottom and the slots 119 receive the tabs 115′ of the rear flap 114′. The interior of the package 1 in the uncollapsed position is shown in FIG. 34d.
Turning to FIGS. 35 and 36, an embodiment of the invention is shown in which the box shape having square ends of the prior discussed embodiments is replaced with a package having triangular ends. The method of manufacture of the triple laminated die cut paperboard for creating the package is the same as was previously described for the satchel shaped package. [0131]
Referring to FIGS. 35 and 36, an assembled [0132] package 1 and a blank for forming the package 1 are shown. The package 1 comprises three panels 140, 142 and 144 coupled to one another along side edges thereof to form a panel assembly having a triangular shape. The panel assembly is assembled by wrapping end panel 140 over an inner panel 146 and gluing the end panel thereto. The package of this embodiment is for use in the horizontal position so that the inner panel 146 forms a full bottom on the inside of the package 1. End panel 140 further includes a false crease 164.
A first series of [0133] flaps 150, 152 and 154 is foldable about a first end of the panel assembly. A second series of flaps 158, 160 and 162, is foldable about a second end of the panel assembly. All of the flaps 150, 152, 154, 158, 160 and 162 are generally trapezoidal in shape with a narrower end being located at the distal end of each flap. Flaps 150 and 158 include false crease 164. When manually folded inside the triangular panel assembly, the first series of flaps 150, 152 and 154 are interlockable to form a first openable closure and the second series of flaps 158, 160, 162 are interlockable in a similar manner to form a second openable closure at first and second ends of the package 1 respectively. The flaps 150, 152, 154, 158, 160 and 162 are identically shaped so that the flaps may be closed in any order. In addition, either end of the package 1 may be opened in order to place a gift or other item therein. The package 1 further comprises a slot 19 for securing a gift card 21 to a panel 140 thereof.
The [0134] package 1 is machine folded and glued from the die cut blank, shown in FIG. 36. The package 1 is shipped and sold in a flattened, collapsed position. The package is then movable by a user from the collapsed position, in which the package 1 was purchased, to an uncollapsed position by unfolding end panel 140 outwardly along false crease 164. The flaps 150, 152, 154, 158, 160 and 162 may extend outwardly in the collapsed position, alternatively, they may be tucked inside the panel assembly.
FIGS. 37 and 38 show a second triangular shaped embodiment. The second embodiment is identical to the first embodiment with the exception that the second end includes a permanent closure. The permanent closure is formed at the bottom end of the [0135] package 1.
The permanent closure comprises an [0136] inner flap 170 foldable about the lower edge of panel 144, an outer flap 172 foldable about the lower edge of panel 142, and first and second flaps 174 and 176 foldable about the lower edges of panels 146 and 140 respectively. Panel 140 is secured to panel 146 and is foldable generally in half so that first and second flaps 174 and 176 are located on either side of the folding axis 160. The first flap 174 is divided along a folding axis 178 into a free portion 180 and a securing portion 182. The second flap 176 is divided along a folding axis 184 into a free portion 186 and a securing portion 188. Securing portions 182 and 188 are located at the distal ends of the first and second flaps 174 and 176 respectively.
To assemble the permanent closure, the securing [0137] portions 180 and 188 of the first and second flaps 174 and 176 are glued to the inner flap 170 and outer flap 172 respectively. The glued securing portions 182 and 188 are secured in a manner that allows a generally flat bottom surface to be formed when the package 1 is in the uncollapsed position. The inner flap 170 further includes friction tabs 171 that extend from the free edges of the inner panel 170 and abut panels 146 and 142 when the package is in the uncollapsed position.
The [0138] package 1 is fabricated and preglued by the manufacturer so that it is ready for set up by the user. To move the package from the uncollapsed position to the collapsed position, the first and second flaps 174 and 176 are folded inwardly along folding axes 178 and 184 respectively and panel 140 is folded inwardly along false crease 164.
In a further embodiment, the packages shown in FIGS. 35 and 37 are used as desk calendars. For a one year calendar, for example, four months would be printed on each side of the package and the package would be rotated every four months by the user. [0139]
Turning to FIGS. 39 and 40, an embodiment of the invention is shown in which the package having triangular ends of the prior discussed embodiments is replaced with a package having hexagonal shaped ends. The method of manufacture of the triple laminated die cut paperboard for creating the package is the same as was previously described for the satchel shaped package. [0140]
Referring to FIGS. 39 and 40, an assembled [0141] package 1 and a blank for forming the package 1 are shown. The package 1 comprises six generally identical panels 190, 192, 194, 196, 198 and 200. First panel 190 is glued to an inner panel 202 to form a hexagonal shaped panel assembly. The inner panel 202 is shown, in FIG. 40, as being full sized, however, it may be also be a partial panel.
The [0142] package 1 further comprises an openable closure located at a first end thereof and a permanent closure located at a second end thereof. The openable closure covers an upper opening of the package 1 and includes a top inner flap 204, a pair of upper tabs 206 and a cover flap 208 having a second pair of upper tabs 210. The top inner flap 204 is foldable about an upper edge of panel 190 and is sized to cover the upper opening of the package 1. The pair of upper tabs 206 is foldable about panels 194 and 198. The cover flap 208 is foldable about panel 196 and is sized to cover the entire upper opening of the package 1. The second pair of upper tabs 210 is coupled to the cover flap 208 is foldable about the cover flap 208. The second pair of tabs 210 is inserted into the upper opening adjacent panels 192 and 200 to form the openable closure for the upper opening.
The permanent closure of the [0143] package 1 comprises first, second and third generally flat surfaces, which combine to form a complete bottom panel for the package 1. The first and second generally flat surfaces are formed by first and second pairs of tabs 220 and 222. The first pair of tabs 220 includes a first foldable tab 224 and a first triangular tab 226. The first foldable tab 224 is divided along a folding axis 232 into a securing portion 228 and a free portion 230. The securing portion 228 is glued to the first triangular tab 226 to form a first gusset that forms the first generally flat lower surface for the package 1, when the package 1 is in the uncollapsed position. Similar to the first pair of tabs 220, the second pair of tabs 222 includes a second foldable tab 234 and a second triangular tab 236. The second foldable tab 234 is divided along a folding axis 236 into a securing portion 238 and a free portion 240. The securing portion 238 is glued to the second triangular tab 236 to form a second gusset that forms the second generally flat lower surface for the package 1, when the package 1 is in the uncollapsed position.
The first and second generally flat surfaces are formed between [0144] adjacent panels 192 and 194 and adjacent panels 198 and 200 that are located on the opposite side of the package 1. The third generally flat surface extends between the first and second generally flat surfaces and overlaps a portion of each surface. The third generally flat surface comprises an outer lower flap 242 and an inner lower flap 244. The outer lower flap 242 is glued to a lower surface of the inner lower flap 244 and is foldable along a folding axis 246. The outer and inner lower flaps 242 and 244 are die cut in an outwardly arcuate shape to frictionally engage with the side panels of the carton when fully opened by the user.
To move the package from the uncollapsed position to the collapsed position, the outer lower flap [0145] 242 folds inwardly along folding axis 246, and first and second foldable tabs 224 and 234 fold inwardly along first and second folding axes 232 and 236.
The hexagonal shaped [0146] package 1 provides a permanent closure on a bottom panel thereof. The user simply squeezes the collapsed package and the full, re-enforced bottom instantly forms. The package 1 of this embodiment is capable of withstanding a great deal of weight and is ideal for gift items such as wine bottles, for example. Since the package 1 is very strong and moves easily from the collapsed position to the uncollapsed position, the package 1 is ideal for re-using many times. The snap open package of this embodiment is very convenient, quick and troublefree to use.
Turning to FIGS. [0147] 41 to 44, a package in the form of a mailing box 250 is generally shown. A blank for forming the mailing box 250 is shown in FIG. 45.
Referring to FIG. 41, the [0148] mailing box 250 generally comprises a front panel 252, a rear panel 256 and opposing side panels 254 and 258. The rear panel 256 and side panel 258 can be seen in FIG. 45. Side panels 254 and 258 are foldable about folding axis 255. A securing closure generally indicated at 260 covers an upper opening of the mailing box 250.
The [0149] securing closure 260 comprises a front flap 262 that is foldable about an upper edge of the front panel 252. Front flap 262 has a slot 264 located therein. Side flaps 266 and 268 are foldable about upper edges of side panels 254 and 258. When the securing closure is in a closed position, the side flaps 266, 268 are tucked under the front flap 262. A locking flap 270 is foldable about an upper edge of the rear panel 256 to cover the upper end of the mailing box 250. The locking flap 270 has an enlarged end portion 272 located at a free end thereof and an aperture 274 located adjacent the upper edge of the rear panel 252. In a preferred embodiment, the aperture 274 is circular and 0.125″ in diameter. The locking flap 270 is split into two individual flaps 276 and 278 about a cut line 280. The locking flap is tapered between the upper edge of the rear panel 252 and the free end thereof.
To close the securing [0150] closure 260, as shown in FIG. 42, the individual flaps 276 and 278 are partially overlapped so that enlarged end portion 272 has a reduced width. The individual flaps 276 and 278 are then rotated in the direction indicated by arrow 280 so as to overlap one another and inserted in the slot 264 of the front flap 262. The slot 264 is sized to receive the reduced width of the enlarged end portion 272. In a preferred embodiment, the slot 264 is only slightly larger than the width of each individual end portion 272′. Once the reduced width of the enlarged end portion 272 has passed through the slot 264, the individual flaps 276 and 278 return to their original positions in which they are no longer overlapping. The individual flaps 276 and 278 spring back to their original positions without any coaxing required by the user. Thus a lock is formed between the locking flap 270 and the slot 264. Once the lock has been formed, the mailing box 250 must be deliberately cut open in order to remove the contents within.
Alternatively, it is possible to close the securing closure by rotating the [0151] individual flaps 276 and 278 separately and inserting each end portion 272′ one at a time through the slot 264.
As shown in FIG. 43, the [0152] rear panel 256 deforms slightly to allow for the rotation of the individual flaps 276 and 278. The aperture 274 accommodates the rotation of the individual flaps 276 and 278 relative to one another during the locking procedure and reduces the possibility of ripping occurring at the location of the aperture 274.
The bottom of the [0153] mailing box 250 should have a permanent closure located thereon. Referring to FIG. 45, the permanent closure shown in FIGS. 30 to 34 is used. Alternatively, referring to FIG. 46, a permanent closure having the configuration shown in FIGS. 34a and 34 b is used. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that any suitable permanent closure can be used. The mailing box 250 is movable from a collapsed position to an uncollapsed position in a similar manner as has been described in relation to FIGS. 30 to 34.
The [0154] mailing box 250 is very simple to form and lock. Once the user has closed the box 250, it is ready to ship by mail or courier, for example. The user does not need to apply multiple layers of mylar tape. The mailing box 250 can be made from folding chip, cylinder kraft or corrugated depending on size and weight desired.
Referring to FIGS. 47 and 48, another embodiment of a [0155] mailing box 250 having an alternate securing closure 260′ shown. Front flap 262′ has a slot 264′ located therein. The slot 264′ is generally U shaped. Side flaps (not shown) are tucked under the front flap 262′. The side flaps are sized and/or shaped so that they do not interfere with the U shaped slot 264′. The locking flap 270′ has an enlarged end portion 272′, which includes foldable tabs 282 located on the sides thereof.
To move the securing [0156] closure 260′ into the closed position of FIG. 48, the tabs 282 are folded toward the rear panel 256 so that the enlarged end portion 272′ forms a U shaped profile. The tabs 282 must be held in this position by the user because the tabs 282 are biased to return to an unfolded position. The enlarged end portion 272′ is then inserted into the U shaped slot 264′. Once the tabs 282 have passed through the slot 264′, they return to the unfolded position, thus, locking the securing closure 260′ of the mailing box 250 in the closed position.
The rounded corners at the forward free end of the [0157] locking flap 272′ protect the tabs 282 from being tampered with once the securing closure 260′ is locked.
It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the packages shown may be used for various applications in addition to functioning as gift packages with a decorative pattern. For example, the packages may be used to store commercial products or consumer items such as toiletries or cosmetics, for example. [0158]
Other embodiments and variations of the invention are possible within the sphere and scope of the description herein above. [0159]

Claims

What I claim is:

1. A package that is movable between a collapsed position and an uncollapsed position, said package comprising:

at least three panels, each of said panels having a pair of opposing side edges, an upper edge and a lower edge, said panels being coupled to one another along said side edges in series to form a panel assembly;

a series of lower flaps coupled to at least two of said lower edges of said at least three panels, said lower flaps interlocking to form a permanent closure at a lower end of said panel assembly; said permanent closure having a folding axis;

a foldable flap coupled to at least one of said upper edges of said at least three panels, said foldable flap being interlockable with at least one of said at least three panels to form an openable closure at an upper end of said panel assembly;

an enclosure formed by said panel assembly, said series of lower flaps and said series of upper flaps, said enclosure being foldable into a generally flat collapsed configuration; and

wherein said package is collapsed into a plane containing said folding axis of said permanent closure.

2. The package of claim 1 wherein said at least three panels are comprised of a single blank that is folded at said side edges of said panels.

3. The package of claim 2 further comprising a side panel flap coupled to a first free edge of said single blank, said side panel flap being glued to a second free edge of said single blank to form said panel assembly.

4. The package of claim 1 comprising four panels.

5. The package of claim 4 wherein said four panels include a front panel, a rear panel and two opposing side panels.

6. The package of claim 5 wherein said side panels include at least one gusset, said at least one gusset being collapsible so that said enclosure is movable between a wide position and a tapered position.

7. The package of claim 6 wherein said series of lower flaps comprises an inner panel coupled to said front panel, an outer flap panel coupled to said rear panel, and side flaps coupled to said side panels, a portion of each of said side flaps being folded and glued to one of said inner panel and said outer flap so that said folding axis extends between said side panels.

8. The package of claim 6 further comprising a handle located at an upper end of said package.

9. The package of claim 8 wherein said handle comprises an aperture formed in an upper portion of said front panel and a matching aperture formed in an upper portion of said rear panel, said aperture being aligned with said matching aperture when said package is in said uncollapsed position.

10. The package of claim 9 wherein said handle further comprises said openable closure and is formed by said foldable flap being coupled to said rear panel and folding over said front panel to engage said aperture of said front panel.

11. The package of claim 10 wherein said aperture is generally trapezoidal in shape with a narrow end being located adjacent said upper edge of said front panel and said matching aperture being similarly shaped and oriented on said rear panel.

12. The package of claim 10 wherein said foldable flap further comprises a folding tongue located at a free end of said foldable flap, said foldable flap being sized for insertion into a wide end of said aperture of said front panel and said folding tongue engaging said narrow end of said aperture to lock said foldable flap in position.

13. The package of claim 12 further comprising two elongated apertures located on either sides of said matching aperture on said rear panel, two tabs extending from the free edge of said foldable flap and being located on either side of said folding tongue, wherein said tabs engage said elongated apertures to further maintain said foldable flap in position.

14. A package as claimed in claim 1 further comprising an elongated aperture formed in one of said at least three panels for receiving a gift card.

15. A package as claimed in claim 14 wherein said elongated aperture further comprises a tab, said tab partially covering a portion of said elongated aperture and securing said gift card within said elongated aperture.

16. A package as claimed in claim 1, wherein said package comprises paperboard having a decorative coating.

17. A package as claimed in claim 16, wherein said package further comprises paperboard coated with three layers of lamination.

18. A package as claimed in claim 16, wherein said package further comprises paperboard coated with reverse printed film.

19. A package that is movable between a collapsed position and an uncollapsed position, said package comprising:

a front panel, a rear panel and two side panels, each panel having a pair of opposing side edges, an upper edge and a lower edge, said side panels being coupled between said front panel and said rear panel to form a panel assembly;

a first flap extending along said lower edges of said side panels and said front panel, said first flap comprising a central portion coupled to said lower edge of said front panel and end tabs coupled to said lower edges of said side panels;

a second flap coupled to said rear panel, said first and second flaps interlocking to form a closure at a lower end of said panel assembly;

a third flap coupled to said upper edge of said front panel, a fourth flap coupled to said rear panel, said third and fourth flaps interlocking to form a second closure at an upper end of said panel assembly;

an enclosure formed by said panel assembly, said first flap, said second flap, said third flap and said fourth flap, said enclosure being foldable into a generally flat collapsed configuration.

20. A package as claimed in claim 19 further comprising a tongue portion located at a free end of said central portion of said first flap, an elongated slot formed in said second flap and being located adjacent said upper edge of said opposing panel, wherein said elongated slot is sized to receive said tongue portion and form an openable closure therebetween.

21. A package as claimed in claim 20 wherein said first flap further comprises two triangular portions located between said central portion and said end tabs, said triangular portion being foldable to abut an inner surface of said central portion to allow said end tabs to fold toward a plane defined by said lower edges of said panels.

22. A package as claimed in claim 21 wherein said third flap is generally identical to said first flap and said fourth flap is generally identical to said second flap and wherein said second closure is generally identical to said closure.

23. A package as claimed in claim 19 further comprising an elongated aperture formed in one of said at least three panels for receiving a gift card.

24. A package as claimed in claim 23 wherein said elongated aperture further comprises a tab, said tab partially covering a portion of said elongated aperture and securing said gift card within said elongated aperture.

25. A package as claimed in claim 19, wherein said package comprises paperboard having a decorative coating.

26. A package as claimed in claim 25, wherein said package further comprises paperboard coated with three layers of lamination.

27. A package as claimed in claim 25, wherein said package further comprises paperboard coated with reverse printed film.

28. A package that is movable between a collapsed position and an uncollapsed position, said package comprising:

a series of lower flaps coupled to said lower edges of said at least three panels, said lower flaps interlocking to form a permanent closure at a lower end of said panel assembly; said permanent closure having at least one folding axis;

a series of upper flaps coupled to said upper edges of said at least three panels, said series of upper flaps being interlockable to form an openable closure at an upper end of said panel assembly;

wherein said package is collapsable into a plane containing said at least one folding axis of said permanent closure.

29. A package as claimed in claim 28 wherein said permanent closure comprises:

an inner flap coupled to a lower edge of a first panel;

an outer flap coupled to a lower edge of a second panel;

a first flap coupled to a first portion of a lower edge of a third panel, a first securing portion of said first flap being secured to said inner flap;

a second flap coupled to a second portion of said third panel, a second securing portion of said second flap being secured to said outer flap.

30. A package as claimed in claim 29 wherein said first flap comprises a first folding axis dividing said first flap into a first free portion and said first securing portion and said second flap comprises a second folding axis dividing said second flap into a second free portion and said second securing portion, and wherein said first folding axis and said second folding axis extend from opposing corners of said third panel generally towards a central axis of said enclosure.

31. A package as claimed in claim 30 wherein said third panel is foldable along an axis located between said first flap and said second flap and extending along the length thereof, wherein in said collapsed position, said third panel is folded along said axis.

32. A package as claimed in claim 28 wherein at least one of said side edges of said panel assembly comprise a depression.

33. A package as claimed in claim 32 wherein said depression is curved.

34. A package as claimed in claim 33 further comprising four panels including a front panel, a rear panel and two side panels, said four panels being of equal width.

35. A package as claimed in claim 34 wherein said permanent closure comprises:

a first flap assembly coupled to a lower edge of a front panel and a first portion of a lower edge of each of said side panels, said first flap assembly comprising a front flap and a pair of integral side tabs extending from opposite edges of said front flap;

a second flap assembly coupled to a lower edge of a rear panel and a second portion of said lower edge of each of said side panels, said second flap assembly comprising a rear flap and a second pair of integral side tabs extending from opposite edges of said rear flap;

a first folding axis dividing each of said side tabs into a free portion and a securing portion, said securing portion being foldable independently from said lower edge of said side panel and being secured to an inner surface of said side panel so that two securing portions are secured to each of side panels;

said front flap and said rear flap being secured to one another along a second folding axis; and

wherein each of said side panels is foldable in half and said enclosure collapses into a plane containing said second folding axis.

36. A package as claimed in claim 35 wherein said enclosure is generally cube shaped.

37. A package as claimed in claim 28 comprising six panels.

38. A package as claimed in claim 37 wherein said permanent closure comprises:

two pairs of tabs coupled to lower edges of two pairs of adjacent panels, said pairs of adjacent panels being located on opposite sides of said panel assembly, each of said two pairs of tabs being secured together to form first and second generally flat lower surfaces;

a pair of flaps extending from lower edges of opposing panels, said opposing panels being located between said two pairs of adjacent panels, said pair of flaps being secured together to form a third generally flat lower surface;

a common folding axis extending through each of first and second generally flat lower surfaces and said third generally flat lower surface.

39. A package as claimed in claim 28 further comprising an elongated aperture formed in one of said at least three panels for receiving a gift card.

40. A package as claimed in claim 39 wherein said elongated aperture further comprises a tab, said tab partially covering a portion of said elongated aperture and securing said gift card within said elongated aperture.

41. A package as claimed in claim 28, wherein said package comprises paperboard having a decorative coating.

42. A package as claimed in claim 41, wherein said package further comprises paperboard coated with three layers of lamination.

43. A package as claimed in claim 42, wherein said package further comprises paperboard coated with reverse printed film.

44. A package that is movable between a collapsed position and an uncollapsed position, said package comprising:

at least three panels, each of said panels having a pair of opposing side edges, a first edge and an opposing second edge, said panels being coupled to one another along said side edges in series to form a panel assembly;

a first series of flaps coupled to said first edges of said at least three panels, said first series of flaps interlocking to form a first openable closure at a first end of said panel assembly;

a second series of flaps coupled to said second edges of said at least three panels, said second series of flaps being interlockable to form a second openable closure at a second end of said panel assembly;

an enclosure formed by said panel assembly, said first series of flaps and said second series of flaps, said enclosure being foldable into a generally flat collapsed configuration; and

wherein when said package is in said uncollapsed position said side edges of said panels are maintained in a generally horizontal orientation.

45. A package as claimed in claim 44, wherein said package comprises paperboard having a decorative coating.

46. A package as claimed in claim 45, wherein said package further comprises paperboard coated with three layers of lamination.

47. A package as claimed in claim 45, wherein said package further comprises paperboard coated with reverse printed film.

48. A card for attaching to a panel of a package, said card comprising:

a card panel having a first edge;

a flap being coupled to said first edge of said card panel;

said flap being rotatable about said first edge;

said flap having locking portions sized to overhang both ends of said first edge;

wherein said flap is insertable into a slot formed in said panel of said package with said locking portions of said flap abut an opposing side of said panel to secure said card to said package.

49. A card as claimed in claim 48, wherein said card comprises paperboard having a decorative coating.

50. A card as claimed in claim 49, wherein said card further comprises paperboard coated with three layers of lamination.

51. A card as claimed in claim 49, wherein said card further comprises paperboard coated with reverse printed film.

52. A card as claimed in claim 48 further comprising:

a tab extending from said first edge of said card panel, said tab being generally coplanar with said card panel; and

wherein said tab of said card panel abuts said panel of said package to prevent said card panel from rotating in a manner that lifts said card panel from said package.

53. A securing closure for a box having at least four side panels, said securing closure comprising:

a first flap coupled to a first upper edge of a first of said at least four side panels, said first flap tapering between said first upper edge and a free end;

an enlarged portion located at said free end of said first flap;

an aperture formed in said flap adjacent said first upper edge, said first flap being split into two individual flaps between said aperture and said free end; said two individual flaps being movable to partially overlap one another to form a reduced enlarged portion having a maximum width;

a second flap coupled to a second upper edge of a second side panel, said second panel being located on an opposite side of said box from said first of said at least four side panels;

a slot formed in said second flap, said slot being located adjacent said second upper edge; said slot being sized to receive said reduced enlarged portion;

wherein to secure said securing closure said two individual flaps are overlapped and said reduced enlarged portion is inserted through said slot, once through said slot, said two individual flaps return to an non-overlapping configuration and said enlarged portion secures said first flap in a closed position.

54. A securing closure for a box having at least four side panels, said securing closure comprising:

a locking flap coupled to a first upper edge of a first of said at least four side panels and foldable relative thereto;

a tab located at a free end of said locking flap, said width of said tab being adjustable between a minimum width and a maximum width;

a second flap coupled to a second upper edge of a second of said at least four side panels and foldable relative thereto;

a slot formed in said second flap and located adjacent said second upper edge; said slot being sized to receive said minimum width of said tab;

wherein to secure said securing closure said width of said tab is adjusted to said minimum width and is inserted through said slot, once through said slot, said width of said tab returns to said maximum width said tab secures said locking flap in a closed position.