US20090321503A1 - Foldable Container for Picnics - Google Patents
Foldable Container for Picnics Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20090321503A1 US20090321503A1 US12/226,032 US22603207A US2009321503A1 US 20090321503 A1 US20090321503 A1 US 20090321503A1 US 22603207 A US22603207 A US 22603207A US 2009321503 A1 US2009321503 A1 US 2009321503A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- blank
- container according
- sheet
- folded
- container
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
- A45F3/46—Picnic sets
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C11/00—Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups A45C1/00-A45C9/00
- A45C11/20—Lunch or picnic boxes or the like
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C3/00—Flexible luggage; Handbags
- A45C3/10—Beach-bags; Watertight beach-bags
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C7/00—Collapsible or extensible purses, luggage, bags or the like
- A45C7/0059—Flexible luggage; Hand bags
- A45C7/0095—Flexible luggage; Hand bags comprising a plurality of hinged panels to be unfolded in one plane for access purposes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G9/00—Bed-covers; Counterpanes; Travelling rugs; Sleeping rugs; Sleeping bags; Pillows
- A47G9/06—Travelling rugs; Sleeping rugs
- A47G9/062—Travelling rugs; Sleeping rugs for covering the ground, e.g. picnic or beach blankets
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/44—Integral, inserted or attached portions forming internal or external fittings
- B65D5/46—Handles
- B65D5/46072—Handles integral with the container
- B65D5/4612—Handles integral with the container formed by extensions of side flaps or by side flaps of a container formed by folding-up portions connected to a central panel from all sides
- B65D5/46128—Handles integral with the container formed by extensions of side flaps or by side flaps of a container formed by folding-up portions connected to a central panel from all sides two opposite closure flaps being provided with handle elements which are in contact with each other
- B65D5/46144—Handles integral with the container formed by extensions of side flaps or by side flaps of a container formed by folding-up portions connected to a central panel from all sides two opposite closure flaps being provided with handle elements which are in contact with each other either the handle elements being formed with lugs which engage with the other side walls or closure flaps, or the other closure flaps folding over a part of the handle to maintain the handle in position
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/56—Linings or internal coatings, e.g. pre-formed trays provided with a blow- or thermoformed layer
- B65D5/60—Loose, or loosely attached, linings
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/56—Linings or internal coatings, e.g. pre-formed trays provided with a blow- or thermoformed layer
- B65D5/60—Loose, or loosely attached, linings
- B65D5/603—Flexible linings loosely glued to the wall of the container
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/36—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C7/00—Collapsible or extensible purses, luggage, bags or the like
- A45C7/0018—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage
- A45C7/0054—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage comprising a plurality of hinged panels to be unfolded in one plane for access purposes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F4/00—Travelling or camp articles which may be converted into other articles or into objects for other use; Sacks or packs carried on the body and convertible into other articles or into objects for other use
- A45F4/02—Sacks or packs convertible into other articles or into objects for other use
- A45F4/06—Sacks or packs convertible into other articles or into objects for other use into beds or mattresses
Definitions
- the present invention relates to foldable containers, in particular for carrying picnics.
- the invention provides a foldable container comprising a foldable blank which in a folded position thereof comprises a housing and in an unfolded position comprises a substantially flat surface, a sheet of material being connected to the foldable blank for covering the blank when in its unfolded position.
- the invention further provides a foldable container comprising a foldable blank which in a folded position thereof comprises a box having a base and one or more side walls and in an unfolded position the blank is substantially flat, a sheet of material being connected to the foldable blank, at least part of the sheet being foldable independently of the blank for covering the blank when in its unfolded position.
- the container according to the invention by utilising a foldable blank and a connected sheet of material provides a very convenient way to enjoy picnics.
- the housing can be pre-packed with various picnic items including foodstuffs, and when it is desired to consume the picnic, the user simply unfolds the blank, removes its contents and spreads the sheet of material out to cover the unfolded blank.
- the outspread sheet can then be used in the normal manner as a picnic rug/cloth.
- the blank acts as an anchor when the sheet and blank are unfolded, helping to prevent the sheet from blowing away. Since the blank is substantially flat when unfolded, the eating surface defined by the sheet is also substantially flat.
- the present invention provides a cheap and disposable container for picnics. At the end of a picnic, the user can thus simply throw away the whole container and avoid having to carry a used basket.
- the blank is made of a cheap material such as card and the sheet can be made of paper, cloth and/or plastics for example.
- the container will be especially useful for events, due to its convenience and disposability, and information regarding the event and/or sponsors can be printed on the exterior of the housing.
- the sheet is situated in the housing and is folded, whereby the sheet is kept clean and out of the way until the container is opened.
- the blank can comprise a base portion, which forms the base of the box, having foldably connected thereto first and second side walls and first and second end walls, which can be folded to form a cuboidal housing.
- Various sizes of housing can be provided.
- At least one of the side walls can include a lid portion foldably connected thereto and at least one of the end walls can include closure means for holding the lid portion closed and holding the blank in the folded position.
- the container can be provided with a securely closeable lid to protect the contents of the housing.
- the closure means has a latch for engaging with a corresponding latch on-the lid portion.
- FIG. 1 shows a container with a blank in an unfolded position
- FIG. 2 shows the container unfolded and in use
- FIG. 3 shows the container with its lid open
- FIG. 4 shows the open container of FIG. 3 and its contents
- FIG. 5 shows the container with the blank in a folded position
- FIG. 6 shows an alternative blank in an unfolded position
- FIG. 7 shows a further alternative blank in an unfolded position.
- a container 1 in an unfolded state comprising a blank 2 and a sheet 3 , both of which are unfolded.
- the blank 2 is made from card and comprises a rectangular base portion 7 foldably connected at its edges to first and second side walls 4 and first and second end walls 5 .
- the foldable connections can be formed by scoring the card.
- At each of the four corners of the base portion 7 is a web portion 6 connected along one edge to an end wall 5 and connected along another edge to a side wall 4 .
- Each web portion 6 is scored along its middle to allow it to fold when the side and end walls are folded together.
- the web portions 6 add strength to the blank and provide a degree of sealing of the housing formed when the blank is folded.
- the web portions are dispensed with, which advantageously results in a lighter construction of blank. Additionally, space that would otherwise be occupied by the web portions is thereby left free, so more room can be provided inside the housing.
- Each side wall 4 has a lid portion 8 foldably connected along an edge thereof.
- a handle 9 is connected to each lid portion 8 .
- closure means comprising a flap 10 with latching means 11 , 12 provided thereon.
- the latching means 11 , 12 engage with corresponding latching means (shown in FIGS. 3 and 5 ) on the lid portions 8 .
- the base portion 7 is provided with a layer of adhesive between it and the sheet 3 , which adhesive layer can be of the same area as the base portion 7 .
- the blank 2 lies under the sheet and acts as an anchor for the sheet 3 .
- the sheet can be octagonal, although other shapes such as oval, round or hexagonal for example can be used.
- FIG. 3 shows the container 1 with the lid portions 8 and the closure means in the open position.
- the latching means on the lid portions 8 can be seen to comprise a slit 31 spaced away from the edges of the lid 8 .
- the closure means can be brought to bear against the edges of the lid portions and the latching means 11 , 12 can be folded over the lid portions 8 until a flap 12 of the latching means engages through the slit 31 , thereby holding the blank in its folded position with the lid closed.
- the lid portions 8 and the flaps 10 of the closure means are configured so as to define, in their closed positions, sloping roof sections on top of the housing.
- FIG. 4 it is shown that when the blank 2 is folded with the sheet 3 therein, the sheet 3 is also folded to match the interior profile of the housing 2 .
- three food containers 42 made from PET can fit into the housing 2 along with two plates 41 , two cups 43 and a cup holder 44 , which can also be made from PET.
- Alternative materials such as paper, cardboard, polystyrene and/or metal foil may be used for the contents of the container.
- Other utensils such as knives, forks and spoons (not shown) that can be made from wood or plastics materials for example are also included in the housing.
- FIG. 5 shows the container in a fully folded position with the lid portions 8 and closure means closed.
- Information about events and sponsors etc. can be printed on any of the side walls 4 , end walls 5 , lid portions 8 or closure means and the handle 9 .
- the handle 9 has an especially simple structure comprising an aperture 51 suitably sized to receive a user's hand.
- the folded blank defines a cuboidal housing with the lid portions 8 and the flaps 10 of the closure means slanting relative to the side and end walls 4 , 5 .
- the blank 2 is generally to be made of card, but any suitable material including plastics or wood could also be used. Moisture impermeable card (also known as chill-proof card) is particularly preferred.
- the sheet 3 is generally to be made of cloth but can also be made from plastics or paper for an advantageous cost reduction. The use of environmentally friendly materials such as biodegradable ones is preferred with all aspects of the invention.
- FIG. 6 an alternative form of blank 60 is shown in its unfolded position.
- the alternative blank 60 comprises a rectangular base portion 61 , first and second side walls 62 being connected along their lower edges to the base portion 61 .
- First and second end walls 63 are also connected along their lower edges to the base portion 61 .
- Dashed lines in FIG. 6 represent folding axes of the blank 60 .
- First and second side roof sections 64 are connected along the upper edges of the side walls 62 .
- first and second end roof sections 65 are connected along the upper edges of the end walls 63 .
- the angle ⁇ defined between a side edge of the end wall 63 and an adjacent side edge of the side wall 62 is acute, whereby when the blank 60 is folded, the side 62 and end 63 walls slant outwardly relative to one another.
- a web portion 69 is provided at each of the four corners of the base portion 61 , between the side edges of the end walls 63 and side walls 62 , each web portion 69 comprising a generally wedge-shaped section 70 connected to a trapezoidal band 72 .
- a folding axis 71 is situated where the wedge-shaped section 70 and the band 72 meet.
- a latching tab 73 of mushroom shape is provided at a corner of the wedge-shaped portion 70 , distal from the base portion 61 , the tab being insertable into an inclined slot 74 in the end wall 63 , thereby to hold the blank 60 in its folded position.
- the web portions 69 are folded outwardly to lie flat against the end walls 63 on the exterior of the housing and the tabs 73 are inserted inwardly through the slots 74 .
- the user can open and unfold the picnic hamper with ease, because the web portions 69 can be grasped from outside the hamper and the tabs 73 pulled out of the slots 74 , whereas if the web portions 69 are inside the hamper the user may need to remove some of the contents thereof in order to gain access to the web portions 69 .
- the side roof sections 64 of the blank 60 are to be folded over the top of the housing whereby a pair of apex sections 66 come into contact with one another.
- Each apex section 66 includes a gripping aperture 75 for receiving the user's hand.
- each apex section 66 has first and second latching means 67 located towards either end thereof, and the end roof sections 65 each include a centrally located slit 68 , which in the folded position of the blank 60 engages over the latching means 67 at one end of the apex sections 66 , thereby holding the side and end roof sections securely in place.
- the latching means 67 comprise notches cut out of the apex sections 66 .
- FIG. 7 shows another alternative form of blank 80 , which in most respects is the same as the blank 60 shown in FIG. 6 , but has a different form of web portion 81 .
- the web portion 81 in distinction to the web portion 69 is detached from the side edge of the end wall 63 .
- the web portion 81 comprises a triangular section 82 which extends along the side edge of the side wall 62 and a quadrilateral latching tab 83 is disposed towards a distal corner of the triangular section 82 , on a side of the triangular section opposite the side wall 62 .
- the triangular section 82 When the blank is being folded, the triangular section 82 is folded to lie against the exterior side of the end wall 63 , the latching tab 83 being inserted through an inclined slot 84 on the end wall 63 to the interior of the housing.
- a second, smaller slot 85 is situated at the edge of the side wall 62 and is arranged to receive a tip 86 of the latching tab 83 , thereby helping to secure the blank in its folded position.
- each embodiment of blank is combinable with one another, e.g., the web portions 69 , 81 according to FIGS. 6 and 7 could be utilised with the lid closure means shown in FIG. 7 , and so on.
- the container is generally to be distirubbed in flat-pack form, i.e. with the blank unfolded, to save space, and the sheet folded and secured to the base.
- the side and end walls are folded upwardly until they meet one another, and the latching tabs 73 ; 83 are pushed through the slots 74 ; 48 .
- the wedge-shaped section 70 and the triangular section 82 can be inside or outside the box. Objects, such as picnic items can be placed in the box on top of the sheet.
- the side roof sections 64 are folded inwardly and the apex sections 66 brought together to form the handle.
- the end roof sections 65 are then folded over, whereby the latching means 67 latch with the slits 68 in the end roof sections, thereby locking the structure of the container and forming a secure, self-contained picnic box with a carry handle.
- this procedure is reversed and the sheet is unfolded and spread out over the unfolded blank, thereby forming the picnic surface on which items can be laid out.
- the box can be refolded and the rubbish can be put therein, for convenient disposal.
- the assembled box has the folded sheet located at the bottom, and the picnic items are stored on top of the sheet. This leads to the need to remove the picnic items before unfolding the sheet.
- the sheet can be so arranged that it is unfoldable without first moving the picnic items. This can be achieved, e.g. by wrapping the sheet around the picnic items.
- the foldable blank having a sheet of material connected thereto for forming a picnic surface
- This embodiment can be used e.g. for lunchboxes and so on, which are to be eaten indoors or at a table, when a sheet of material may not be needed.
Abstract
A foldable container (1) for picnics comprising a foldable blank (2) connected to a sheet of material (3). When the blank (2) is folded it is used to carry a picnic, and when unfolded, the sheet (3) can be spread out to allow users to eat the picnic.
Description
- The invention provides a foldable container comprising a foldable blank which in a folded position thereof comprises a housing and in an unfolded position comprises a substantially flat surface, a sheet of material being connected to the foldable blank for covering the blank when in its unfolded position.
- The invention further provides a foldable container comprising a foldable blank which in a folded position thereof comprises a box having a base and one or more side walls and in an unfolded position the blank is substantially flat, a sheet of material being connected to the foldable blank, at least part of the sheet being foldable independently of the blank for covering the blank when in its unfolded position.
- Advantageously, the container according to the invention, by utilising a foldable blank and a connected sheet of material provides a very convenient way to enjoy picnics. The housing can be pre-packed with various picnic items including foodstuffs, and when it is desired to consume the picnic, the user simply unfolds the blank, removes its contents and spreads the sheet of material out to cover the unfolded blank. The outspread sheet can then be used in the normal manner as a picnic rug/cloth. By virtue of the sheet being connected to the blank, the blank acts as an anchor when the sheet and blank are unfolded, helping to prevent the sheet from blowing away. Since the blank is substantially flat when unfolded, the eating surface defined by the sheet is also substantially flat.
- By avoiding the use of a traditional picnic basket, e.g. a wicker basket, and utilising instead a foldable blank, the present invention provides a cheap and disposable container for picnics. At the end of a picnic, the user can thus simply throw away the whole container and avoid having to carry a used basket. In this regard, it is preferred that the blank is made of a cheap material such as card and the sheet can be made of paper, cloth and/or plastics for example.
- It is anticipated that the container will be especially useful for events, due to its convenience and disposability, and information regarding the event and/or sponsors can be printed on the exterior of the housing.
- When the blank is in the folded position, it is preferred that the sheet is situated in the housing and is folded, whereby the sheet is kept clean and out of the way until the container is opened.
- The blank can comprise a base portion, which forms the base of the box, having foldably connected thereto first and second side walls and first and second end walls, which can be folded to form a cuboidal housing. Various sizes of housing can be provided. At least one of the side walls can include a lid portion foldably connected thereto and at least one of the end walls can include closure means for holding the lid portion closed and holding the blank in the folded position. Thereby, the container can be provided with a securely closeable lid to protect the contents of the housing. Preferably, the closure means has a latch for engaging with a corresponding latch on-the lid portion.
- Other advantageous features of the invention are set out in the sub claims.
- There follows a detailed description of an embodiment of the invention, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which
-
FIG. 1 shows a container with a blank in an unfolded position; -
FIG. 2 shows the container unfolded and in use; -
FIG. 3 shows the container with its lid open; -
FIG. 4 shows the open container ofFIG. 3 and its contents; -
FIG. 5 shows the container with the blank in a folded position; -
FIG. 6 shows an alternative blank in an unfolded position; and -
FIG. 7 shows a further alternative blank in an unfolded position. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , there is shown acontainer 1 in an unfolded state comprising a blank 2 and asheet 3, both of which are unfolded. The blank 2 is made from card and comprises a rectangular base portion 7 foldably connected at its edges to first andsecond side walls 4 and first andsecond end walls 5. The foldable connections can be formed by scoring the card. At each of the four corners of the base portion 7 is aweb portion 6 connected along one edge to anend wall 5 and connected along another edge to aside wall 4. Eachweb portion 6 is scored along its middle to allow it to fold when the side and end walls are folded together. Theweb portions 6 add strength to the blank and provide a degree of sealing of the housing formed when the blank is folded. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the web portions are dispensed with, which advantageously results in a lighter construction of blank. Additionally, space that would otherwise be occupied by the web portions is thereby left free, so more room can be provided inside the housing. - Each
side wall 4 has alid portion 8 foldably connected along an edge thereof. Ahandle 9 is connected to eachlid portion 8. Connected to eachend wall 5 along a peripheral edge thereof are closure means comprising aflap 10 with latching means 11, 12 provided thereon. The latching means 11, 12 engage with corresponding latching means (shown inFIGS. 3 and 5 ) on thelid portions 8. - The base portion 7 is provided with a layer of adhesive between it and the
sheet 3, which adhesive layer can be of the same area as the base portion 7. When theunfolded container 1 is oriented as shown inFIG. 2 , the blank 2 lies under the sheet and acts as an anchor for thesheet 3. It will also be appreciated fromFIG. 2 that the sheet can be octagonal, although other shapes such as oval, round or hexagonal for example can be used. Further, there are shown a number of plates, cups, a cup holder and packages of prepared food laid out on thesheet 3. -
FIG. 3 shows thecontainer 1 with thelid portions 8 and the closure means in the open position. The latching means on thelid portions 8 can be seen to comprise aslit 31 spaced away from the edges of thelid 8. When thelid portions 8 are folded into their closed positions, the closure means can be brought to bear against the edges of the lid portions and the latching means 11, 12 can be folded over thelid portions 8 until aflap 12 of the latching means engages through theslit 31, thereby holding the blank in its folded position with the lid closed. Thelid portions 8 and theflaps 10 of the closure means are configured so as to define, in their closed positions, sloping roof sections on top of the housing. - In
FIG. 4 it is shown that when the blank 2 is folded with thesheet 3 therein, thesheet 3 is also folded to match the interior profile of thehousing 2. This saves space within the housing, maximising the amount of room available for food and utensils. In the example shown, threefood containers 42 made from PET can fit into thehousing 2 along with twoplates 41, twocups 43 and acup holder 44, which can also be made from PET. Alternative materials such as paper, cardboard, polystyrene and/or metal foil may be used for the contents of the container. Other utensils such as knives, forks and spoons (not shown) that can be made from wood or plastics materials for example are also included in the housing. -
FIG. 5 shows the container in a fully folded position with thelid portions 8 and closure means closed. Information about events and sponsors etc. can be printed on any of theside walls 4,end walls 5,lid portions 8 or closure means and thehandle 9. Thehandle 9 has an especially simple structure comprising anaperture 51 suitably sized to receive a user's hand. The folded blank defines a cuboidal housing with thelid portions 8 and theflaps 10 of the closure means slanting relative to the side andend walls - The blank 2 is generally to be made of card, but any suitable material including plastics or wood could also be used. Moisture impermeable card (also known as chill-proof card) is particularly preferred. The
sheet 3 is generally to be made of cloth but can also be made from plastics or paper for an advantageous cost reduction. The use of environmentally friendly materials such as biodegradable ones is preferred with all aspects of the invention. - Referring to
FIG. 6 , an alternative form of blank 60 is shown in its unfolded position. Similarly to the blank shown inFIG. 1 , the alternative blank 60 comprises arectangular base portion 61, first andsecond side walls 62 being connected along their lower edges to thebase portion 61. First andsecond end walls 63 are also connected along their lower edges to thebase portion 61. Dashed lines inFIG. 6 represent folding axes of the blank 60. First and secondside roof sections 64 are connected along the upper edges of theside walls 62. Additionally, first and secondend roof sections 65 are connected along the upper edges of theend walls 63. The angle θ defined between a side edge of theend wall 63 and an adjacent side edge of theside wall 62 is acute, whereby when the blank 60 is folded, theside 62 and end 63 walls slant outwardly relative to one another. - A
web portion 69 is provided at each of the four corners of thebase portion 61, between the side edges of theend walls 63 andside walls 62, eachweb portion 69 comprising a generally wedge-shapedsection 70 connected to atrapezoidal band 72. A foldingaxis 71 is situated where the wedge-shapedsection 70 and theband 72 meet. A latchingtab 73, of mushroom shape is provided at a corner of the wedge-shapedportion 70, distal from thebase portion 61, the tab being insertable into an inclined slot 74 in theend wall 63, thereby to hold the blank 60 in its folded position. Preferably, when the blank 60 is being folded up, theweb portions 69 are folded outwardly to lie flat against theend walls 63 on the exterior of the housing and thetabs 73 are inserted inwardly through the slots 74. In this way, the user can open and unfold the picnic hamper with ease, because theweb portions 69 can be grasped from outside the hamper and thetabs 73 pulled out of the slots 74, whereas if theweb portions 69 are inside the hamper the user may need to remove some of the contents thereof in order to gain access to theweb portions 69. - However, given the construction of the blank 60, it is entirely possible for the
web portions 69 to be folded to the interior of the housing, if desired. - The
side roof sections 64 of the blank 60 are to be folded over the top of the housing whereby a pair ofapex sections 66 come into contact with one another. Eachapex section 66 includes a grippingaperture 75 for receiving the user's hand. Further eachapex section 66 has first and second latching means 67 located towards either end thereof, and theend roof sections 65 each include a centrally located slit 68, which in the folded position of the blank 60 engages over the latching means 67 at one end of theapex sections 66, thereby holding the side and end roof sections securely in place. The latching means 67 comprise notches cut out of theapex sections 66. -
FIG. 7 shows another alternative form of blank 80, which in most respects is the same as the blank 60 shown inFIG. 6 , but has a different form ofweb portion 81. Theweb portion 81 in distinction to theweb portion 69 is detached from the side edge of theend wall 63. Theweb portion 81 comprises atriangular section 82 which extends along the side edge of theside wall 62 and a quadrilateral latching tab 83 is disposed towards a distal corner of thetriangular section 82, on a side of the triangular section opposite theside wall 62. - When the blank is being folded, the
triangular section 82 is folded to lie against the exterior side of theend wall 63, the latching tab 83 being inserted through aninclined slot 84 on theend wall 63 to the interior of the housing. A second,smaller slot 85 is situated at the edge of theside wall 62 and is arranged to receive atip 86 of the latching tab 83, thereby helping to secure the blank in its folded position. Similarly to the previous embodiment, it would alternatively be possible to arrange thetriangular section 82 on the interior of the housing with the latching tab 83 folding along the exterior side of theend wall 63 and folding around a corner of the housing so that thetip 86 can be inserted through thesmaller slot 85. This may require a slightly longer latchingtab 86. - With reference to
FIGS. 6 and 7 , instead of having theslots 74, 84 in theend walls 63 of the blank 60, 80, it would also be possible to arrange the slots in theside walls 62, with a corresponding re-arrangement of theweb portions tabs 73, 83 face in the opposite direction to that shown inFIGS. 6 and 7 , and other corresponding features of the blank being suitably modified. - The features particular to each embodiment of blank are combinable with one another, e.g., the
web portions FIGS. 6 and 7 could be utilised with the lid closure means shown inFIG. 7 , and so on. - The container is generally to be distirbuted in flat-pack form, i.e. with the blank unfolded, to save space, and the sheet folded and secured to the base. When it is desired to erect the container, the side and end walls are folded upwardly until they meet one another, and the latching
tabs 73; 83 are pushed through the slots 74; 48. The wedge-shapedsection 70 and thetriangular section 82 can be inside or outside the box. Objects, such as picnic items can be placed in the box on top of the sheet. Theside roof sections 64 are folded inwardly and theapex sections 66 brought together to form the handle. Theend roof sections 65 are then folded over, whereby the latching means 67 latch with theslits 68 in the end roof sections, thereby locking the structure of the container and forming a secure, self-contained picnic box with a carry handle. To use the container for a picnic, this procedure is reversed and the sheet is unfolded and spread out over the unfolded blank, thereby forming the picnic surface on which items can be laid out. After the picnic, the box can be refolded and the rubbish can be put therein, for convenient disposal. - In the embodiments shown in the drawings, the assembled box has the folded sheet located at the bottom, and the picnic items are stored on top of the sheet. This leads to the need to remove the picnic items before unfolding the sheet. In an alternative embodiment, the sheet can be so arranged that it is unfoldable without first moving the picnic items. This can be achieved, e.g. by wrapping the sheet around the picnic items.
- Instead of the foldable blank having a sheet of material connected thereto for forming a picnic surface, it is possible to dispense with the sheet, so that the blank can be folded and simply used as a box. This embodiment can be used e.g. for lunchboxes and so on, which are to be eaten indoors or at a table, when a sheet of material may not be needed.
Claims (21)
1. A foldable container comprising a foldable blank which in a folded position thereof comprises a box having a base and one or more side walls and in an unfolded position the blank is substantially flat, a sheet of material being connected to the foldable blank, at least part of the sheet being foldable independently of the blank for covering the blank when in its unfolded position.
2. The container according to claim 1 , wherein in the folded position of the blank, the sheet of material is situated in the box and is folded.
3. The container according to claim 2 , wherein the sheet of material is sized to completely cover the blank in the unfolded position of the blank and the unfolded position of the sheet of material.
4. The container according to claim 1 , wherein the sheet of material is connected to the blank by adhesive.
5. The container according to claim 1 , wherein the sheet of material comprises cloth.
6. The container according to claim 1 , wherein first and second side walls and first and second end walls are foldably connected to the base.
7. The container according to claim 6 , wherein a web is provided between each of the first and second side and end walls.
8. The container according to claim 7 , wherein the web comprises a generally wedge-shaped section which extends along an edge of the side wall, and which is connected to an edge of the end wall by means of a band, a latching tab being provided towards a distal corner of the wedge-shaped section for insertion through a slot in the end wall.
9. The container according to claim 8 , wherein the wedge-shaped section is arranged on the exterior of the housing when the blank is folded.
10. The container according to claim 9 , wherein an acute angle is defined between adjacent edges of the side and end walls when the blank is in the unfolded position.
11. The container according to claim 10 , wherein at least one of the first and second side walls includes a lid portion foldably connected thereto.
12. The container according to claim 11 , wherein at least one of the first and second end walls includes closure means for holding the lid portion closed and holding the blank in the folded position.
13. The container according to claim 12 , wherein the closure means comprises a flap foldably connected to an end wall, including latching means for engaging with corresponding latching means on the lid portion.
14. The container according to claim 11 , wherein the lid portion comprises at least one handle for carrying the container.
15. The container according to claim 1 , containing culinary equipment and/or food stuffs.
16. The container according to claim 15 , wherein the culinary equipment is plastic.
17. The container according to claim 1 , wherein the sheet of material is octagonal when unfolded.
18. The container according to claim 1 , wherein the sheet of material and the blank are connected together at a central point of the sheet of material.
19. The container according to claim 6 , wherein the whole area of the base portion is adhered to the sheet of material.
20. The container according to claim 1 , wherein the blank comprises card.
21. (canceled)
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB0606879.5 | 2006-04-05 | ||
GBGB0606879.5A GB0606879D0 (en) | 2006-04-05 | 2006-04-05 | Foldable container for picnics |
PCT/GB2007/001282 WO2007113577A1 (en) | 2006-04-05 | 2007-04-05 | Foldable container for picnics |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090321503A1 true US20090321503A1 (en) | 2009-12-31 |
Family
ID=36539394
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/226,032 Abandoned US20090321503A1 (en) | 2006-04-05 | 2007-05-04 | Foldable Container for Picnics |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20090321503A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2010019A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2007232361A1 (en) |
GB (2) | GB0606879D0 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2007113577A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10292515B2 (en) | 2013-05-22 | 2019-05-21 | Tablebox Aps | Transport box |
US11116297B1 (en) * | 2020-06-12 | 2021-09-14 | Social Studies 101, Llc | Modular tablescape carrying case |
US11357346B1 (en) * | 2021-09-10 | 2022-06-14 | Sandy Bumz, LLC | Collapsible ground sheet |
IT202100012500A1 (en) * | 2021-05-14 | 2022-11-14 | W H In S R L | Multifunctional, biodegradable and compostable food container, optionally provided with an antimicrobial coating |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP2805647A1 (en) * | 2013-05-22 | 2014-11-26 | Sonny Petersen | Transport box |
IT201600079189A1 (en) * | 2016-07-28 | 2018-01-28 | Top Srl | Modular bag structure. |
IT201700035574A1 (en) * | 2017-03-31 | 2018-10-01 | Novagraphica Bags Srl | BOX FOR FOODS FROM EXPECTED REMOVAL |
US11492168B2 (en) * | 2019-10-09 | 2022-11-08 | Ariel Diaz | Interchangeable food box tray |
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2006
- 2006-04-05 GB GBGB0606879.5A patent/GB0606879D0/en not_active Ceased
- 2006-07-03 GB GB0613210A patent/GB2436791A/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2007
- 2007-04-05 AU AU2007232361A patent/AU2007232361A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2007-04-05 EP EP07732326A patent/EP2010019A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2007-04-05 WO PCT/GB2007/001282 patent/WO2007113577A1/en active Application Filing
- 2007-05-04 US US12/226,032 patent/US20090321503A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US567649A (en) * | 1896-09-15 | Paper receptacle | ||
US4260004A (en) * | 1978-10-27 | 1981-04-07 | Domke James G | Camera and accessory case |
US4238069A (en) * | 1979-08-09 | 1980-12-09 | Morris George A Jr | One-piece corrugated container |
US4856912A (en) * | 1988-05-03 | 1989-08-15 | Diane Damus | Combination beach towel and tote bag |
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US5533653A (en) * | 1994-05-20 | 1996-07-09 | Kaufman; Mark S. | Combination totebag and towel having an advertising medium and method of making the same |
US6059179A (en) * | 1998-04-17 | 2000-05-09 | Giampapa; Debbie L. | Multi-use configurable container |
US6837420B2 (en) * | 2001-11-16 | 2005-01-04 | Wes Pak, Inc. | Foldable portable cooler with enhanced over-center locking handle |
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Cited By (6)
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US10292515B2 (en) | 2013-05-22 | 2019-05-21 | Tablebox Aps | Transport box |
US11116297B1 (en) * | 2020-06-12 | 2021-09-14 | Social Studies 101, Llc | Modular tablescape carrying case |
US20210386167A1 (en) * | 2020-06-12 | 2021-12-16 | Social Studies 101, Llc | Modular tablescape carrying case |
IT202100012500A1 (en) * | 2021-05-14 | 2022-11-14 | W H In S R L | Multifunctional, biodegradable and compostable food container, optionally provided with an antimicrobial coating |
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US11357346B1 (en) * | 2021-09-10 | 2022-06-14 | Sandy Bumz, LLC | Collapsible ground sheet |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB2436791A (en) | 2007-10-10 |
EP2010019A1 (en) | 2009-01-07 |
WO2007113577A1 (en) | 2007-10-11 |
AU2007232361A1 (en) | 2007-10-11 |
GB0613210D0 (en) | 2006-08-09 |
GB0606879D0 (en) | 2006-05-17 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |