WO2007030579A2

WO2007030579A2 - Shirt box

Info

Publication number: WO2007030579A2
Application number: PCT/US2006/034793
Authority: WO
Inventors: Cin Kim
Original assignee: Peacock Apparel Group, Inc.
Priority date: 2005-09-07
Filing date: 2006-09-06
Publication date: 2007-03-15
Also published as: CA2659228C; CA2621029A1; WO2007030579A3; KR20080052613A; KR101353150B1; CA2659228A1; CA2621029C

Abstract

A shirt box includes a substrate having a plurality of fold lines including a first set of generally parallel fold lines and a second set of generally parallel fold lines. Notches extend through the substrate in a first direction. First and second sets of panels are separated from one another by fold lines. The panels are foldable along respective fold lines to define a hollow central cavity for the shirt box and peripheral ends of the shirt box. A bond permanently connects two non-adjacent panels in the first set while double-sided tape members are in adhesive contact with panels in the second set. Removable strips overlie a second side of the double-sided tape members while the shirt box is in a collapsible state, and are removable so as to size the hollow central cavity to receive a shirt or a shirt and tie combination.

Description

SHIRT BOX

Cross-Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims priority to U.S. patent application Nos. 11/222,040,

filed September 7, 2005; 11/435,830, filed May 16, 2006; and 11/470,149, filed September

5, 2006, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to retail packaging and in particular, to a shirt box for

displaying a shirt in an assembled state and being constructed to fold flat to permit easy

bundling and shipping of a number of boxes.

Background

In the retail sale of dress shirts and dress shirts and tie combinations, it is desirable

to present the merchandise in a manner that permits potential customers to have a good look

at the product. On the other hand, it is important for retailers to keep the product clean and

free of any soil or stains that may result from handling, to protect against theft, and to

maintain the shirts in an orderly and well-folded condition so that their displays remains

attractive to passers by.

It is also desirable that the packaging that is used be economical to manufacturer,

that it be made from a recyclable material, and that it be made with minimal waste. It is also desirable to have a packaging that addresses the foregoing needs and which

permits shirts to be stacked in great number to promote efficient shelf and display space

usage.

The present invention satisfies these and other needs.

Summary

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a combination of clothing

articles and a substantially transparent box is constructed and arranged to include a collared

shirt, a necktie supported by the shirt, and a single sheet of substantially transparent plastic

having a series of first panels each defined by a respective fold in a series of first folds and

a set of second panels each defined by a respective fold in a set of second folds in the

plastic sheet. A bond permanently connects one of the first panels to another of the first

panels so as to define a hollow central cavity for the box. The hollow cavity is sized to

receive the shirt and necktie. The second panels are folded to define first and second

peripheral ends of the box. The plastic sheet comprising the box includes a hole positioned

relative to the clothing articles such that the outline of the hole overlies a portion of the

articles.

In a further aspect, the invention includes the combination as described above

having the necktie folded intermediate its ends and seated relative to the folded shirt by an

elastic band which passes transversely to a length of necktie, within the fold. The band can

comprise a loop and can be sized to be stretchably received about the shirt collar.

Optionally, a clip can engage with the fabric of the necktie proximate to the fold to pinch

the fabric and thereby emulate the appearance of a tie knot. In a still further aspect, the invention as described above can include a band or loop

disposed about the folded shirt, and a channel adjacent the loop. The necktie can be

disposed within the channel.

In yet another aspect, the invention as described above has the bond connecting the

first panels defined by a plurality of individual bond sites which are intermittently spaced

apart. Optionally, the individual bond sites can be arranged in at least one line.

In still another aspect, the invention as defined above can further have double-sided

tape members with opposing sides in adhesive contact with respective second panels to

permit ready closing of the box once filled with a shirt and tie.

articles.

In a further aspect, the invention includes the combination as described above

comprise a loop and can be sized to be stretchably received about the shirt collar. Optionally, a clip can engage with the fabric of the necktie proximate to the fold to pinch

the fabric and thereby emulate the appearance of a tie knot.

In a still further aspect, the invention as described above can include a band or loop

disposed within the channel.

permit ready closing of the box once filled with a shirt and tie.

A shirt box suitable for receiving one or more shirts includes a single sheet of

substantially transparent plastic that has a plurality of fold lines formed therein including a

first set of generally parallel fold lines and a second set of generally parallel fold lines. The

box includes a series of first panels, each being separated from a next panel in the series by

a respective fold line in the first set of fold lines. The first panels are foldable along the

respective fold lines in a first direction to define a hollow central cavity for the shirt box.

The box also includes a set of second panels each having a boundary along a respective fold

line in the second set of fold lines to a respective first panel. The second panels are

foldable along the respective fold lines in a second direction which is substantially

perpendicular to the first direction to define first and second peripheral ends of the shirt box.

In this embodiment, the box includes first and second fastening panels that are part

of the set of first panels are attached to another along a fastening region to connect the set

of first panels in series and define the central cavity. The shirt box has a collapsible (collapsed) state in which the sides of the collapsed box are defined by first and second fold

lines that are part of the first set of fold lines and in the fully assembled (closed) state, the

box has a substantially trapezoidal shape the sides of which are defined by a third fold line

that is different from the first fold line and a fourth fold line that is different from the

second fold line.

These and other aspects, features and advantages shall be apparent from the

accompanying Drawings and description of certain embodiments of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Fig. 1 is a top plan view of a first embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the embodiment of Fig. 1 showing the shirt box in a

partially folded position;

Fig. 3 is a detailed end view of the embodiment of Fig. 1 showing a securement for

securing the box in a closed state;

Fig. 4 shows the box of Fig. 3 in the closed state;

Fig. 5 is a cross-section through lines 5-5 of Fig 4;

Fig. 6 is a top plan view of a second embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 7 is a cross-section of the second embodiment taken along the same lines as that

of Fig. 5;

Fig. 8 shows the shirt and tie combination disposed within the box;

Fig. 9 is a front view of the shirt and tie combination;

Fig. 10 shows a clip useful in configuring the tie to appear knotted;

Fig. 11 shows an elongated body useful in holding the shirt and tie combination in a

preferred alignment; Fig. 12 shows the elongated body being folded;

Fig. 13 shows the elongated body in a folded state and disposed around the shirt;

Fig. 14 shows a second embodiment of the elongated body in a folded state and

disposed around the shirt;

Fig. 15 is a top plan view of a third embodiment of the invention in an unfolded

substrate form;

Fig. 16 is a partial top plan view of the embodiment of Fig. 15 showing the box in a

partially folded collapsed state;

Fig. 17 is perspective view of one end of the embodiment of Fig. 15 in a first

partially folded state;

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of one end of the embodiment of Fig. 15 in a second

partially folded state;

Fig. 19 is a perspective view of one end of the embodiment of Fig. 15 in a closed

state showing securement of an end panel;

Fig. 20 is a perspective view of the box of the embodiment of Fig. 15 in the closed

state with a pair of shirts contained therein;

Fig. 21 is a top plan view of the box of Fig. 15 with a tuxedo arrangement

contained therein;

Fig. 22 is a bottom plan view of the embodiment of Fig. 21;

Fig. 23 is an exploded top perspective view of a shirt box according to embodiment

of the present invention;

Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the shirt box of Fig. 23 in a fully assembled

state; Fig. 25 is a partial rear plan view of the shirt box of Fig. 23 with a box cover being

moved to a rear position; and

Fig. 26 is cross-sectional taken along the line 26-26 of Fig. 25.

Detailed Description of Certain Embodiments of the Invention

Referring to Fig. 1, a shirt box container 10 includes a substrate 20 in the form of a

transparent plastic sheet having fold lines generally designated Fl and F2. The fold lines

Fl are generally parallel and preferably are parallel to one another. The fold lines F2 are

also generally parallel and preferably are parallel to one another. The fold lines Fl, F2

define boundaries of respective panels of the substrate 20. A series of first panels 30 all

fold in a first direction and include panels 32, 34, and 36. Each of the panels in the series

30 is disposed adjacent another panel in the series and is separated from a next panel by one

of the fold lines Fl.

As shown in Fig. 2, the first series of panels 30 is foldable along the fold lines

Fl along a common, parallel direction to define a hollow central cavity for the shirt box.

Referring now to Figs. 1 and 2, a set of second panels 40 have a boundary along the

fold lines F2 to respective panels in the first series 30. Thus, panels 42 are bounded along

one margin at the fold lines F2 to panel 34 and flaps 44 are bounded along fold lines F2 to

panels 32. In the embodiment of Fig. 1, the second set of panels 40 further includes end

flaps 46 which fold about fold line F2 and which are joined to a free end of panels 42.

Each of the panels 42 and 44 has a free end, opposite its bounded end and each is adjacent

to a notch 50, which separate a portion of the panels 42, 44 from the remainder of the

substrate 20. As can be appreciated from Fig. 2, the panels in the second set 40 are

foldable along their respective fold lines F2 in a direction which is substantially W 2 perpendicular to the direction of fold lines Fl. In folding the second set of panels 40,

peripheral ends of the shirt box 10 are defined.

The notches 50 are generally oriented to extend in the same direction as the fold

lines Fl, and preferably are axially aligned with the fold lines Fl.

In accordance with a salient aspect of the present invention, the shirt box 10 can be

configured in a partially assembled state in which a hollow central cavity for containing a

shirt or a shirt and tie combination is defined, yet which is collapsible into a generally flat

state until such time that a shirt (or a shirt and tie combination) is to be inserted into the box.

When the shirt box 10 is to be filled, it is brought to an uncollapsed state, the shirt is

introduced into the hollow cavity, and the peripheral ends of the shirt box are bonded so as

to define a substantially rectangular and sealed shirt box construction.

With further reference to Figs. 1 and 2, a securement 50 extends along an inner

margin of the panel 36 for permanently connecting panel 36 to another panel in the series,

preferably one of the panels 32. As shown in Fig. 3, the securement 50 comprises a bond

(e.g., thermal or adhesive) which is made between panels 36 and 32 so as permanently

connect those panels and secure the shirt box 10 in a rectangular configuration. The bonds

preferably comprise a contact cement; however, the bond can comprise other generally

permanent connections as understood by those skilled in the art. Preferably, the bond is

"permanent" in that it is of such character that it is not readily opened by a consumer, and

yet is sufficiently strong to permit the box to be collapsed laterally, so that the panels of the

first series 30 can be folded along fold lines Fl to define the shirt cavity while the

peripheral ends remain unattached to thereby permit the shirt box to assume a flat condition.

Optionally, the bond includes a series of individual bond sites intermittently spaced

apart and arranged (e.g. linearly, evenly spaced, or both) along the length of panel 32 to define the securement. Each such bond site can be formed by applying heat and pressure

such that the panels are adhered to one another. The resulting bond site can be indented on

one side and bulged on the opposite side. Each individual bond site can therefore have the

appearance of the two panels having been crimped together.

The shirt box 10 further includes a first and second double sided tape member 60

having a first side in adhesive contact with a respective panel in the second set of panels 40.

As illustrated in Figs. 1-3, the double-sided tape member is disposed on end panel 42. A

second side of the double-sided tape member 60 includes a removable strip 62 (best seen in

Fig. 3) which overlies the second side of the tape member 60. The removable strip

maintains the second side of the tape member 60 free of tackiness so that shirt boxes 10 can

be stacked in a collapsed state without sticking to one another. However, the removable

strip 62 can be separated from the second side of the tape member 60 by releasing it in the

direction of arrow A so as to expose an adhesive surface which permits engagement of one

panel 42 with another panel 42 (see Fig. 4). Once the panels 42 have been adhesively

joined by the tape member 60, the shirt box 10 is in the second state in which the hollow

central cavity is sized to receive the shirt or shirt and tie combination.

Preferably, the material of the substrate has a thickness so that, in combination with

the fold lines Fl and F2, a stable, second state results in which the shirt boxes 10 can be

stacked in great number, one upon another, to promote efficient shelf and display space

usage.

In order to facilitate folding of the shirt box, in a preferred form, the end panels 46

have chamfered corners adjacent their respective free ends. The chamfered corners reduce

interference of one panel member with another as the box is folded. As illustrated in Figs. 1-4, it is preferred that the panels in the second set 40 extend

symmetrically from the margins of the panels in the first series 30.

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view through the folded box in accordance with first the

embodiment described above. Fig. 5 shows the relative relationship of the different panels

with the shirt box 10 in the fully folded configuration.

Referring now to Fig. 6, a second embodiment of shirt box 10' is illustrated in

^■ which like reference numbers are used to refer to corresponding features. In relevant part,

the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it has been specially

configured in order to minimize waste material as the substrate 20 is stamped from a web

of material by providing an overall rectangular configuration free of cut-outs. As in the

first embodiment, it is preferred that a single sheet of substantially transparent plastic is

used to define the panels of the shirt box 10'; however, in order to minimize waste material,

the end flaps 46 have been eliminated, and new flaps 48a and 48b are included in the

second set of panels 40. The flaps 48 A, 48B are folded about fold line F2 when the

substrate 20 is folded to define the shirt box 10'. Thus, as shown in Fig. 7, the folded shirt

box lacks the end panel 46, so the top and bottom margins of the folded box have the same

thickness throughout the length of the shirt box. The additional flap 48a is accommodated

within the folded box , as illustrated in Fig. 7.

The fold lines Fl and F2 can be continuous or discontinuous, but preferably are

continuous and more preferably comprise score lines in the substrate 10. Depending on the

material chosen for the substrate, fold lines can be defined by material at locations that are

axially aligned with the notches 50. Also, at least one of the notches 50 preferably has a

depth (that is, in a direction parallel to the axis of the fold lines Fl) which is equal to the width of the flaps 44. By so-constructing at least some of the notches 50, a substantially

rectangular shirt box 10, 10' can result.

Referring to Fig. 8, a shirt and tie combination 80 is disposed within the hollow

central cavity of shirt box 10. Preferably, shirt box 10 is formed with a hole 90 in one of

the panels that forms the box. Hole 90 is positioned such that the outline of the hole

overlies a portion of the shirt and tie combination 80. This arrangement provides access to

the garments inside the shirt box 10 so that consumers can touch and feel the garments yet

does not compromise the structural integrity of the box 10.

Fig. 9 is a front view of the shirt and tie combination 80. The shirt 100 is

preferably folded as shown. The shirt 100 includes a collar 101. A necktie 102 is located

proximate to the collar. The necktie essentially comprises a length of fabric. It may be any

suitable fabric such as silk. The necktie may also comprise a combination of fabrics. The

fabric of the necktie generally extends in the vertical direction (along line A-A') as shown

in Fig. 9. The necktie has a first end 104 and a second end 105.

The necktie 102 is folded between the first and second ends to create a fold 103.

The fold is horizontal in Fig. 9, thus being in a direction transverse to that of the fabric of

the necktie (namely, transverse to line A-A'). An elastic band 106 is placed within the fold,

or within at least one of the several folds if several are present. The elastic band 106 is

preferably manufactured from rubber, but may be manufactured from an elastic fabric, or a

flexible elastic plastic material. The elastic band 106 passes through the fold in a generally

horizontal direction, i.e. direction transverse to that in which the necktie extends. The

elastic end is resiliently stretched upward and preferably around the collar 101. Preferably,

the elastic band comprises a loop which is slightly shorter than the circumference of the

collar, thus necessitating it to be stretched when wrapped around the collar. A clip 107 is placed on the necktie in a position proximate to the fold. The clip 107

is preferably placed about 1-1.5 inches below the fold. The clip pinches the necktie in

order to create the appearance of a knot, as shown in Fig. 9. If a knot is already present,

the clip is not required. As can be seen in Fig 10, the clip 107 is preferably U-shaped.

Additional details concerning the arrangement of the necktie, elastic band and clip

are disclosed in the currently co-pending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10/763,410 of

Kim, filed January 23, 2004, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Referring to Figs. 11 and 12, an elongated body 200 is shown in Fig. 11 in an

unfolded state and in Fig. 12 being brought to the folded state. The elongated body has

first and second ends 201 and 202, and first and second attachment points 203 and 204

intermediate of the ends but positioned, as will be apparent, to secure the body in a closed-

loop configuration while simultaneously defining a channel for receiving a necktie. The

end 202 is brought into engagement with attachment point 203 whereas end 201 is brought

into engagement with attachment point 202.

The elongated body 200 is used in conjunction with the shirt (100 in Fig. 13 ) with

the necktie tie (102 in Fig. 12 ) attached to the shirt. When folded, the elongated body can

be made to wrap around the shirt, as shown in Fig. 13.

Fig. 13 shows an end view of the elongated body 200 wrapped around a folded shirt

100. There it can be seen that when end 201 is connected to attachment point 204 and when

end 202 is connected to attachment point 203, a channel 300, suitable for the insertion of

the tie 102 therein, is defined. When the elongated body 200 is plastic, these attachment

joints may be defined by cooperation of a lock-tab and a lock-joint, as disclosed in the

currently co-pending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/166,913 of Kim, filed June 23,

2005, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference, or by any other method, such as, for example, the use of glue, tape, staples, heat-seal, sewing, etc. Sewing is a

particularly preferred approach for achieving the engagement at the attachment points then

when the elongated body 200 is made from fabric.

A second embodiment the elongated body of the present invention is depicted in Fig.

14. In this embodiment an elongated body 400 is used. The elongated body is made to form

a main loop by attaching its ends 401 and 402. The main loop is suitable for the placement

of a folded shirt 100 therein. An additional wall 405, composed, preferably of the same

material as the elongated body 400, is attached to the elongated body 400 at two attachment

points 403 and 404. A channel 406 is formed between the elongated body 400, the wall 405

and the attachment points 403 and 404 using any of the foregoing attachment methods noted

above. The channel 406 is suitable for the placement of a tie therein. Additional reference

concerning the use of an elongated body in connection with a shirt and tie is disclosed in

U.S. Patent No. 6,901,636, to Kim, issued June 7, 2005.

Referring to Figs. 15-20, a shirt box container 500 is made from a substrate 510 in

the form of a transparent plastic sheet having a series of fold lines generally designated Fl

and F2. The fold lines Fl are generally parallel and preferably are parallel to one another

and can be characterized as being vertical fold lines that run from one end of the container

to the opposite other end. The fold lines F2 are also generally parallel and preferably are

parallel to one another and can be characterized as being horizontal fold lines. The fold

lines Fl, F2 define boundaries of respective panels of the substrate 510.

More specifically, the substrate 510 is divided into a number of different panels that

define particular segments or regions of the substrate 510. A series of first panels 512 all

fold in a first direction and include panels 520, 522, 524, and 526. Each of these panels

520, 522, 524, 526 is disposed adjacent another panel in the series and is separated from a next panel by one of the fold lines Fl. As shown in Figs. 15-20, the first series of panels

512 is foldable along the fold lines Fl along a common, parallel direction to define a

hollow central cavity for the shirt box. Two of these panels, namely, panels 520, 524,

form a top wall (panel 524) and a bottom wall (panel 520), as well a pair of side walls that

are defines by panels 522, 526. As shown in Fig. 20, when the box 500 is assembled, the

box 500 has a trapezoidal shape in that it is a quadrilateral with two sides parallel.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the panels 520, 524 has a generally

rectangular shape and the widths of the panels 520, 524 are preferably equal. In addition,

the panels 522, 526 also have a generally rectangular shape, with the panel 522 being

disposed between the panels 520, 524 and the panel 526 being formed on the other side of

the panel 524. The panels 522, 526 have widths that are preferably equal to one another

but are less than the width of the panels 520, 524.

Referring now to Fig. 15, the second series of panels 514 includes a pair of end

panels 530 that have a boundary along the fold lines F2 to the panel 520. The end panel

530 is defined by two parallel edges 532, one of which defines the fold line F2, and a first

end edge 534 that is perpendicular to edges 532 and a beveled end edge 536 that is formed

at an angle to the edges 532. The end edge 536 is formed at an angle other than 90 degrees

and therefore it is not parallel to the first end edge 534. The outer edge 534 has a greater

width than the inner edge 534 as illustrated.

On one side of each end panel 530, a flap 560 is provided. The flaps 560 are

bounded along one margin at the fold lines F2 to the panel 522. The flap 560 thus folds

about fold line F2 and is generally in the shape of a trapezoid in that it includes two non-

parallel side edges 562. It will be appreciated from Fig. 15, that the distance that the flap

560 extends from fold line F2 (the inner edge of the flap) is less than the distance that the W 2 end panel 530 extends from fold line F2. In other words, the outer edge of the end panel

530 is at a greater distance from the fold line F2 than the outer edge of the flap 560 as

illustrated.

The panel 522 is bounded at its ends by the flaps 560 and along its sides by panel

520 and 524. In other words, the panel 522 is disposed between the panels 520 and 524

and is joined thereto along fold lines Fl.

On the other side of the panel 520 and the end panel 530, a first fastening panel 550

is formed and includes a main section 552 that extends between fold lines F2 and thus has a

general rectangular shape and end sections 554 that extend from the fold lines F2 to the

outer edge of the end panel 530. The end sections 554 thus extend the same distance from

the fold lines F2 as the end panels 530; however, each end section 554 has a generally

triangular shape, with the hypotenuse of the triangle being defined by an edge 556. The

other two sides of the end section 554 are defined by the end edge 534 and the edge 532

that defines the fold line F2.

A free edge 558 of the fastening panel 550 and in particular, of the panel 520,

represents a free edge that is used to construct and configure the substrate 510 into its

sealed folded construction shown in Fig. 20. This aspect will be described in greater detail

below. The free edge 558 includes first fastening elements 551 that serve to fasten and

securely attach the substrate 510 into its assembled but folded collapsed state.

A pair of end panels 540 is also provided and is constructed to have a boundary

along the fold lines F2 to the panel 524 which is located between panels 522 and 526 and is

joined thereof along fold lines Fl. The end panel 540 is defined by two parallel edges 542,

one (inner edge) of which defines the fold line F2 and the other is an outer edge of the end

panel 540. The end panel 540 has a trapezoid shape and is therefore, also defined by a pair W 2 of angled edges 544. The angled edges 544 are tapered inward toward the fold line F2 so

as to cause the inner edge (the fold line F2) to have a lesser width than the outer edge 542.

In the embodiment of Figs. 15-20, the panels 540 further includes end flaps 580

which fold about fold line F2 and which are joined to the outer edges (outer edge 542) of

the panels 540. The end flap 580 similarly has a trapezoid shape and is defined by the edge

542 at fold line F2 and an outer edge 582, with a pair of angled edges 584 extending

between edges 542, 582. In an opposite manner relative to the end panel 540, the end flap

580 is constructed so that the outer edge 582 has a less width than the width of the inner

edge (F2 fold line/edge 542).

As can be seen, a slit 561 separates the flap 560 and the adjacent panel 540 and

therefore, permits folding of the flap 560. There is a gap between the other side edge 562

of the flap 560 and the adjacent panel 530 and therefore, there is no slit present in this

location.

As illustrated in Fig. 15, each of the panels 520, 522, 524 and 526 has a rectangular

shape, with the width of the panels 522, 526 being less than a width of the panels 520, 524.

The panels 520, 524 can have the same dimensions and shapes and the panels 522, 526 can

have the same dimensions and shapes.

On one side of each panel 540, a flap 570 is provided. The flaps 570 are bounded

along one margin at the fold lines F2 to the panel 526. The flap 570 thus folds about fold

line F2 and is generally in the shape of a trapezoid in that includes two non-parallel side

edges 572 and an outer edge 574. It will be appreciated from Fig. 15, that the distance that

the flap 570 extends from fold line F2 (the inner edge of the flap) is less than the distance

that the outer edge 542 of the end panel 540 extends from fold line F2. In other words, the

outer edge 542 of the end panel 540 is at a greater distance from the fold line F2 than the outer edge 574 of the flap 570 as illustrated. Preferably, the distances that the flaps 560,

570 extend from the panels 522, 526, respectively, are equal and therefore, the outer free

edges of the lie in the same plane.

Similar to the flap 560, the flap 570 is defined by the pair of side edges 572 that are

angled with respect to the fold lines F2 and outer edge 574, with one of the side edges 572

being formed by a slit or cut that also defines one of the edges 542 of the panel 540.

One the other side of the panel 526 and the flaps 570, a second fastening panel 590

is formed and includes a main section 592 that extends between fold lines F2 and extends

from the fold line Fl. The main section 592 can generally have a trapezoid shape and is

defined by an inner edge 594 (fold line Fl), an outer edge 596 that is parallel to the inner

edge 594 and has a lesser length, and a pair of end edges 598 that extend between the inner

edge 594 and the outer edge 596. The edges 598 are angled relative to the edges 594, 596.

The second fastening panel 590 is similar to and complementary to the first

fastening panel 550 with the exception that the second fastening panel 590 does not include

the end sections 554 that are present as part of the first fastening panel 550.

The outer edge 596 of the fastening panel 590 represents a free edge that is used to

construct and configure the substrate 510 into its sealed folded construction shown in Fig.

16. This aspect will be described in greater detail below. The free edge 596 includes

second fastening elements 591 that are complementary to the first fastening elements 551

and serve to fasten and securely attach the substrate 510 into its assembled but folded state

shown in Fig. 16.

As can be appreciated from Figs. 15-20, the panels 530, 540 and flaps 560, 570,

580 are foldable along their respective fold lines F2 in a direction which is substantially perpendicular to the direction of fold lines Fl . In folding the above panels, peripheral ends

of the shirt box 500 are defined.

In accordance with a salient aspect of the present invention, the shirt box 500 can be

configured in a partially assembled state in which a hollow central cavity for containing one

or more shirts or one or more shirt and tie combinations is defined, yet which is collapsible

into a generally flat state until such time that one or more shirts (or a shirt and tie

combination) are to be inserted into the box. When the shirt box 500 is to be filled, it is

brought to an uncollapsed state, the shirt is introduced into the hollow cavity, and the

peripheral ends of the shirt box are bonded so as to define a substantially rectangular and

sealed shirt box construction.

The first and second fastening elements 551, 591 are designed to interlockingly mate

together for permanently connecting the panel 590 to the panel 550. According to one

embodiment and as illustrated, the fastening elements 551, 591 are in the form of an

interlocking based structure or a crimped based structure where the two panels 550, 590 are

securely connected to one another so as to form a closed box blank that and be stored flat

prior to use. When the securement technique is an interlocking based structure, the

elements 551, 591 when pressed together interlock with one another. The elements 551,

591 can thus be a snap-fit based system that interlocks with one another when mated

together.

With further reference to Figs. 15-20, the shirt box 500 can further include first and

second double sided tape members 600 that have a first side in adhesive contact with a

respective panel in the second set of panels. As illustrated in Fig. 15, the double-sided tape

member 600 is disposed on end panel 580. A second side of the double-sided tape member

600 includes a removable strip 612 (best seen in Fig. 18) which overlies the second side of the tape member 600. The removable strip 612 maintains the second side of the tape

member 600 free of tackiness so that shirt boxes 500 can be stacked in a collapsed state

without sticking to one another. However, the removable strip 612 can be separated from

the second side of the tape member 600 by releasing it in the direction of arrow A so as to

expose an adhesive surface which permits engagement of one panel 580 with another panel

520 (see Figs. 18-19). Once the panels 580, 520 have been adhesively joined by the tape

member 600, the shirt box 500 is in the state in which the hollow central cavity is sized to

receive one or more shirts.

the fold lines Fl and F2, a stable, second state results in which the shirt boxes 500 can be

usage.

In order to facilitate folding of the shirt box, in a preferred form, the end panels 530,

540, 580 can have chamfered corners adjacent their respective free ends. The chamfered

corners reduce interference of one panel member with another as the box 500 is folded.

In the assembled, folded state, the angled sides of the trapezoidal shape box 500 are

defined by panels 522, 526 and the top is defined by panel 524 and the bottom is defined by

panel 520. In the assembled state, the ends of the box 500 are defined by the folded panels

530, 540 and flaps 560, 570. When the box 500 is fully assembled into the folded state of

Figs. 19-20, the panel 530 and the corresponding end section 554 of the first fastening

panel 550 lie in the same plane.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the side edges of the partially folded,

collapsed box 500 shown in Fig. 16 are defined by side edges that are different than the

side edges that define the sides of the fully assembled box 500 as shown in Fig. 20. More W specifically, in the partially folded, collapsed state, one side edge of the box 500 is defined

by the fold line Fl between panels 522, 524, while the other side edge of the box 500 is

defined by the fold line Fl between the first fastening panel 550 and the panel 520. In

contrast, when the box 500 is further folded from the collapsed state of Fig. 16 to the

assembled, fully folded, closed state of Fig. 20, both of the side edges of the box 500 are

different than the two side edges in the collapsed state. In particular, one of the side edges

is defined by the free edge 558 of the first fastening panel 550 which is joined to the edge

596 of the second fastening panel 590, and the other side edge of the box 500 is defined by

the fold line Fl between the panels 520, 522. It will therefore be appreciated both fold

lines Fl associated with the first fastening panel 550 define the side edges of the box 500 in

both the collapsed state of Fig. 16 and the assembled, closed state of Fig. 19. This is due

to the fact that the first fastening panel 550 is folded over the panel 520 in the collapsed

state and is then folded so that it is in the same plane as the panel 550 in the closed state of

Fig. 19.

In the flat storage position (collapsed state) that allows a number of boxes 500 to be

easily stacked on top of one another, the box 500 is folded about the fold line Fl between

the panels 522, 524 so that the panel 524 is disposed above and lies across a portion of the

panel 520 and a portion of the panel 522 and both panels 526, 590 lie above the panel 520.

The outer edge 596 of the fastening panel 590 does not extend all the way to the fold line

Fl that is formed between the panel 520 and the fastening panel 550. In this orientation,

the flaps 570 lie above the end panel 530 but do not extend all the way to the outer edge of

the end panel 530. Each end panel 540 is disposed over a portion of the end panel 530 and

one flap 560. The outer edge 542 of the end panel 540 preferably overlies the outer edge

532 of the underlying end panel 530 in this folded construction. The outer edge of the W 2 underlying flap 560 does not extend to the fold line F2 that is defined by the overlying

outer edges of the end panels 530, 540.

One angled edge 544 of the end panel 540 that is adjacent the flap 570 is disposed

over the end panel 530, while the other angled edge 544 does not overlie any structure and

is angled outwardly from the fold line Fl between the panels 522, 524 and therefore, the tip

where the angled edges 544 and 584 intersect represents the furthest point of one side of the

unassembled, folded, collapsed box 500.

In the unassembled, folded, collapsed position of Fig. 16, the two side edges of the

folded box are defined by the fold line Fl defined between the panels 522, 524 and the fold

line Fl defined between the fastening panel 550 and the panel 520.

In the folded, closed position of Fig. 20, the fastening panel 550 is folded about the

fold line Fl between the fastening panel 550 and the panel 520 and the end sections 554 are

thus folded over the end panel 530. The free edge 558 of the fastening panel 550 is

positioned proximate the fold line Fl between the fastening panel 590 and the panel 526.

When the fastening panel 550 is folded over, as shown, the first and second fastening

elements 551, 591 generally align with one another in an overlying manner to permit the

interconnection/fastening thereof. As discussed above, when the fastening elements 551,

591 are in the form of interlocking structures, the elements 551, 591 are joined together

using appropriate tools. In the case of snap-fit elements, the elements 551, 591 are joined

and mated to form an interlocking snap-fit connection between the elements 551, 591 or in

the case of a crimp, using crimping tools.

To construct and assemble the box 500 into its normal condition for use as shown in

Fig. 20, the box 500 is first formed by cutting a plastic sheet to have the shapes and cuts

shown in Fig. 15 and is then folded about the fold line Fl between the panels 522, 524 and the fastening panel 550 is folded and the fastening elements 551, 591 are joined to yield,

the folded construction described above and shown in Fig. 16. Next, the folded box 500 is

manipulated by raising the panels 526, 526 relative to panel 520 by folding the structure

about the fold line Fl between the panels 520, 522 as shown in Fig. 17. As the panel 524

is raised in the manner, the panel 522 no longer lies flat but starts to pivot upward at an

increasing angle relative to the panel 520 and simultaneously, the panel 526 begins to lift

away from its initially flat position by pivoting about the fold line Fl between the fastening

panel 550 and the panel 520 (the side edge of the folded box).

As the panel 524 continues to be raised and the panels 522, 526 pivot upwardly

toward an axis that is normal to the panel 520, the end panels 540 are also raised and

assume a position above the end panels 530, with the flaps 560, 570 being positioned

between the end panels 530, 540. As the panel 524 is raised, the flaps 560, 570 move in

direction that causes them to become more normal relative to the underlying panel 520. In

this initial movement, the end sections 554 begin to pivot upwardly about the first end edge

534 (Fl fold line between the end section 554 and the end panel 530).

In this intermediate position, the end sections 554 are close to or even in a

perpendicular orientation relative to the end panel 530 and the panel 522 can likewise be in

position where the panel 522 is substantially perpendicular to the panels 520, 524 as shown

in Fig. 17. When the ends sections 554 and the panel 522 are in perpendicular orientations,

the panel 526 is at an angle other than 90° relative to the panel 520.

To go from the intermediate position to the final, closed position of Fig. 20, the box

500 is manipulated to cause the free edge 558 of the fastening panel 550 and the fold line

Fl between the panel 526 and the fastening panel 590 to become the side edge of the

complete, assembled box 500 structure. This is done by pushing down on in the area where the fastening panels 550, 590 are joined (i.e., near or along the joined fastening

elements 551, 591) and then tucking the fastening panel 550 underneath the panel 526 by

causing the first fastening panel 550 to lie flat and in the same plane as the panel 520 (as

well as the same plane as the end panel 130 prior to its folding) as shown in Fig. 18. This

is accomplished by folding the first fastening panel 550 about the fold line Fl between the

first fastening panel 550 and the panel 520. In other words, the original side edge of the

folded box construction, namely, the fold line Fl between the end panel 550 and the panel

520 no longer is the side edge of the assembled box 500 shown in Fig. 19. Similarly, the

other side edge of the box 500 is different in the collapsed and closed states in that in the

collapsed state, the side edge is defined by the fold line Fl between the panels 522, 524 and

in the closed state, the side edge is defined by the fold line Fl between the panels 520, 522.

As a result of folding the first fastening panel 550 in this manner into a position

where it lies in the same plane as the panel 520, the two panels 522, 526 of the box 500

form and define the two angled sides of the trapezoid shaped box 500. The assembly of the

box 500 is then completed by bending the flaps 560, 570 inwardly towards the interior

compartment of the box 500 (e.g., folded over towards the panels 522, 526, respectively)

and then the end panels 530, including the end sections 554, are folded up towards the

folded flaps 560, 570 and brought into contact therewith to close off the interior

compartment of the box 500. As shown, the combination of the end section 554 and the

adjoining end panel 530 itself defines a trapezoid shaped end.

The final sealing of the box 500 is performed by folding down the end panel 540, at

the fold line F2 between panels 540, 524 so as to fold the panel 540 over the folded end

panel 530 so that the trapezoidal shaped end panel 540 lies over the complementary

trapezoidal shaped end panel 530, with one angled edge 544 being generally aligned with and overlying the edge 556 associated with the end section 554 and the other angled edge

544 being aligned with and overlying the edge 536. The end flap 580 is then folded about

the fold line F2 so as to position the end flap 580 on an underside (bottom surface) of the

panel 520. To secure the end flap 580 to this underside surface of the panel 520, the

removable strip of the double-sided tape member 600 is removed so as to expose the second

side of the tape member 600, thereby exposing an adhesive surface which permits the

engagement of the end panel 580 with the underside of the panel 520. Once the panels 580

have been adhesively joined by the tape member 600, the shirt box 500 is in the second

state, namely, the assembled state, in which the hollow central cavity is sized to receive one

or more shirts.

It will be appreciated that the area of the end section 554 and the end panel 530 is

about equal to the area of the end panel 540 which, unlike the end panel 530 does not

include a fold line Fl since these two structures mate together as described herein. In

addition, the bottom of the box 500 is defined by the panel 520 and the first fastening panel

550, while the top of the box 500 is defined by the panel 524.

The fold lines Fl and F2 can be continuous or discontinuous, but preferably are

continuous and more preferably comprise score lines in the substrate 520.

The set of first panels of the shirt box 500 thus includes a bottom panel 520, a top

panel 524 and a pair of side panels 522, 526 that extend between the bottom and top panels

510, 524, each of the first and second side panels 522, 526 being formed at an angle other

than 90 degrees with respect to the top panel 524 and the bottom panel 520. In the

collapsed box, one side panel 522 lies adjacent and in the same plane as the bottom panel

520, while the other side panel 526 lies above the bottom panel 520 and in a different plane.

The first fold line is formed between the first fastening panel 550 and the bottom panel 520 that is part of the first set of panels, wherein in the collapsed box 500, the first fastening

panel 550 is folded over the bottom panel 520, while in the assembled state, the first

fastening panel 550 and the bottom panel 520 lie at least substantially in the same plane.

It will be appreciated that the box 500 is constructed to receive and display one or

more shirts. For example, when displaying two shirts, the shirts are arranged side by side

and one shirt can at least partially overlie the other shirt so that both collars of the shirts are

spaced apart and fully visible. It is also possible for one or more of the shirts to include a

tie as described above with reference to previous embodiments.

Now referring to Figs. 21-22 in which a new application for the shirt box 500 is

shown. In this embodiment, the shirt box 500 contains a tuxedo shirt arrangement 700 that

includes a tuxedo shirt 710 that is arranged in a folded manner so that a collar 712 thereof

is visible through the top panel 524 and sleeves 714 of the shirt 710 are folded over the

front of the shirt 710 so that cuff links 716 that are already inserted and secured through

button holes of the sleeves 714 are visible through the top panel 524. The shirt 710 has a

bow tie 720 that is arranged around the collar 712 in the standard position and manner of

wear so that once again, the consumer is shown how the bow tie 720 looks in its standard

location. A clip or the like can be used to attach the bow tie 720 to the shirt 710 so that the

bow tie 720 does not move relative to the shirt 710 during transportation or display.

The shirt 710, along with the attached bow tie 720 and cuff links 716, occupy a first

section of the central cavity of the box 500, while a cummerbund 730 is disposed in and

occupies a second section of the central cavity that is adjacent the first section. The

cummerbund 730 can be folded so that its folded length is about the same as the length of

the folded shirt 710. As is well known, the cummerbund 730 has a pair of free ends or

straps 732, 734 that are releasably attached to one another, as by a hook or buckle type mechanism. In one aspect of the invention, a support structure 740, such as a piece of

cardboard, is provided to support the folded cummerbund 730 and help locate and confine

the cummerbund 730 to the second section of the box 500. The support structure 740 thus

has a length that is about the same as the length of the folded shirt 710. The folded

cummerbund 730 can be further secured to the support structure 740 by any number of

different means, including, the use of a clip or the like (this further ensures that the

cummerbund 730 will not move excessively relative to the support structure 740). By

placing the cummerbund 730 in the second section of the box next to the folded shirt 710 in

the first section, the consumer can view the cummerbund 730 directly next to the folded

shirt 710. The consumer can thus view the complete tuxedo shirt arrangement prior to

purchase to select the desired tuxedo shirt design.

In one aspect of this embodiment, one of the panels 540 contains a hanger 750 that

has a hook member 752 to permit the box 500, with the tuxedo shirt arrangement 700

contained therein for display to the consumer. The hanger 750 includes a body portion 754

from which the hook member 752 extends and the hanger 750 is preferably attached to the

panel 540 by securely attaching an underside of the body portion 754 to the outer face of

the panel 540. The hanger 750 can be attached using any number of different techniques,

including using an adhesive (e.g., glue or cement) or by otherwise bonding or welding the

hanger 750 to the panel 540.

It will also be appreciated that the tuxedo arrangement 700 does not have to include

the cummerbund 730 and support structure 740 but instead, the shirt box 500 can contain

only the folded shirt 710, along with the bow tie 720 and cuff links 716.

As with the earlier embodiment, the shirt box 500 can be formed with hole 90 in

one of the panels that forms the box 500. Hole 90 is positioned such that the outline of the hole overlies a portion, of the shirt or the tuxedo arrangement. This arrangement provides

access to the garments inside the shirt box 500 so that consumers can touch and feel the

garments yet does not compromise the structural integrity of the box 500.

Referring to Fig. 23, a shirt box 800 is formed of a base or bottom box portion 820,

a removable box cover 830 that mates with the box portion 820, and an intermediate

transparent shirt cover or protector 840 that is received within and is removable from the

base 820 and between the box cover 830 and the base 820. While the box 800 can be

formed of any number of different materials, including synthetic materials, one exemplary

box 800, as illustrated, is formed of a combination of paper material (e.g., reinforced

cardboard, etc.) and synthetic material (e.g., a plastic) in the case of the shirt cover 40.

The base or box bottom 820 can be formed to have any number of different shapes,

such as a square, oval, circle, triangle, rectangle (as shown), etc. The base 820 is defined

by a bottom wall or floor 822 and a plurality of upstanding walls that extend upwardly from

the floor 822. In the case of a rectangular shaped base 820, the upstanding walls consist of

a pair of opposite end walls 824 and a pair of opposite side walls 826. The end walls 824

and side walls 826 are joined to one another to completely surround the floor 822 and form

a bounded structure. The ends walls 824 and side walls 826 preferably are formed at or

about at right angles to the floor 822. The floor 822 thus has an inner surface 823 on

which a shirt or some other object rests, and an opposite outer surface or face 825 which

represents the bottom surface of the entire box 800. The ends walls 824 have

corresponding inner surfaces or faces 827 and the side walls 826 have corresponding inner

surfaces or faces 829. The base 800 is preferably formed from paper materials, such as rigid cardboard,

and is constructed using conventional box making techniques so as to form a rigid, robust

structure.

The box cover 830 includes a top wall or ceiling 832 and a plurality of walls that are

arranged around and are integrally attached to the top wall 832 and in the illustrated

embodiment, where the box cover 830 has a rectangular shape, the cover 830 includes a

pair of opposing end walls 834 and a pair of opposing side walls 836. The end walls 834

and side walls 836 are joined to one another to completely surround the top wall 832 and

form a bounded structure. The end walls 834 and side walls 836 preferably are formed at

or about at right angles to the top wall 832. The top wall 832 thus has an inner surface 833

(an underside) that faces the floor 822 and an opposite outer surface or face 835 which

represents the top surface of the entire box 810. The ends walls 834 have corresponding

inner surfaces or faces 837 and the side walls 836 have corresponding inner surfaces or

faces 839.

The box cover 830 is preferably formed from paper materials, such as rigid

cardboard, and is constructed using conventional box making techniques so as to form a

rigid, robust structure.

According to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the box cover

830 and more particularly, the top wall 832 thereof, includes an opening, window or cutout

850 formed therein to permit the item (e.g. , shirt) contained in the box base 820 to be

easily viewed. The formation of the opening 850 defines a peripheral edge 852 that defines

the boundaries of the opening 850. It will be appreciated that the location, size and shape

of the opening 850 can be varied and can be chosen from a great number of different sizes and shapes so long as a substantial portion of the object (shirt) in the base 820 can be easily

viewed through the opening 850.

In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 850 has a rectangular shape and is

centrally located within the top wall 832 so as to define top border portions represent

portions of the top wall 832 that are formed around the opening 850. In other words, the

opening 850 is preferably formed at a location such that the distance between the top edges

of the opening 850 and wall 832 and the bottom edges of the opening 850 and wall 832 is

about equal and the distance between the side edges of the opening 850 and the wall 832 is

about equal. The illustrated opening 850 has rounded corners 54 to give a smoother,

flowing appearance.

The mating of box cover 830 to the base 820 is similar to standard box design in

that the end walls 832 and side walls 834 of the box cover 830 are received over the

corresponding end walls 822 and side walls 824 of the base 820. The distance between the

opposing side walls and end walls in each structure are thus selected so that a snug fit

results between the box cover 830 and the base 820 when the box cover 830 is mated to the

base 820. As shown in the Figures, the top wall 832 of the cover 830 extends inwardly

from the end and side walls 822, 824 of the base 820 so as to conceal the end and side

walls 822, 824 and thus, position the opening 850 over the floor 822 of the base to permit

clear viewing of the object (shirt). The sections of the top wall 832 around the opening 840

are in the form of flange-like sections of the box cover 830 that extend inwardly over a

cavity or compartment 860 that is defined in the base 820 for receiving the shirt.

In contrast to conventional box designs where any transparent window portion is in

the form of a flat sheet of transparent plastic that is adhered to an underside of wall sections

formed around an opening formed in the box cover, the transparent portion of the box 800 W 2 of the present invention is in the form of a member that is separate and independent from

both the base 800 and the box cover 830, and in particular, the transparent window section

of the box 800 is provided by the shirt protector or cover 840.

The shirt cover 840 is a self-supporting, free standing, upstanding structure that is

received within the compartment 860 and stands upright therein around the shirt or other

object that is resting on the floor 822 of the base 820. The shirt cover 840 is defined by a

top wall or panel 842 and a number of upstanding walls and more particularly, the shirt

cover 840 has a pair of opposing end panels 844 and a pair of opposing side panels 846.

The shirt cover 840 is transparent or semi-transparent in nature and is typically formed of a

plastic material and in particular, can be manufactured as a substrate that is folded along

fold lines to form a folded structure. For example, the shirt cover can have a pair of end

fold lines 870 that are formed between the top panel 842 and each of the end panels 844

and a pair of side fold lines 872 that are formed between the top panel 842 and each of the

side panels 846. The fold lines 870 are parallel to one another and the fold lines 872 are

parallel to one another, with the fold lines 870 being perpendicular to the fold lines 872 and

vice versa.

To form the upstanding, free standing structure 840, the side panels 846 are folded

along the fold lines 872 and the end panels 844 are folded along the fold lines 870. It will

therefore be appreciated that the individual end panels 844 are not directly attached to the

side panels 846 and vice versa but instead, slots 847 are formed between adjacent panels.

The slots 847 permit each panel 844, 846 to have a degree of freedom or movement or

flexing to permit the end panels 844 and side panels 846 to flex and be received within the

adjacent and complementary end walls 824 and side walls 826. The height of the shirt cover 840 is selected such that when the shirt cover 840 is

placed in the compartment 860 on the floor 822, the top panel 842 is generally in the same

plane as the top edges of the end panels 824 and side panels 826 of the base 820. When the

shirt cover 840 is in its self supported, freely upstanding position, the distance from the top

panel 842 to floor 822 is sufficient to permit the shirt or other object to be received therein

such that when the shirt (object) sits on the floor 822, the top of the shirt is close to or even

in slight contact with the top panel 842 of the shirt cover 840. The transparent or even

semi-transparent nature of the protective shirt cover 840 permits the consumer to easily

view the contents (e.g., a shirt) contained in the compartment 860 without manipulation of

the box 800 and more particularly, without any manipulation of the box cover 830.

Since the protective shirt cover 840 is totally independent from the base 820 and the

box cover 830, it can be easily removed from the base 820 to permit reception of the shirt

on the floor 822 of the base 820. In addition, since the shirt cover 40 is totally independent

from the box cover 830, the box cover 830 can easily be removed from the base 820

without worrying about the integrity of the transparent window portion of the box 800, in

this case, the protective shirt cover 840.

By folding the end panels 844 and side panels 846 about the fold lines 870, 872, a

free standing, self-supported, upright structure is formed that can stand on the floor 822

without collapsing or otherwise deform due in part to the presence of the walls 824, 826

which serve to restrict any outward movement of the end panels 844 and the side panels

846 and retain the generally rectangular shape of the protective shirt cover 840.

The width of the top panel 842 is therefore about equal to or slightly less than the

distance between the side walls 826 of the base 820 to permit reception of the protective

shirt cover 840 into the compartment 860. The dimensions of the end panels 844 and side panels 846 are therefore complementary to the corresponding walls 824, 826 of the base

820 so that when the protective shirt cover 840 is received in the compartment 860, the

protective shirt cover 840 at least substantially occupies the area of the compartment 860.

Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the box 800 in an assembled condition where the

protective shirt cover 840 is inserted into the compartment 860 of the base 820, where it

remains as an independent, free-standing structure, and then the box cover 830 is inserted

over the base 820 and the protective shirt cover 840 so that an underside of the top wall 832

of the box cover 830 seats against the top surface of the top panel 842 of the protective shirt

cover 840. In this position, there is an appearance that the protective shirt cover 840 and

the box cover 830 are an integral single structure since when the consumer views the top of

the box cover 830, the underlying protective shirt cover 840 extends across and occupies

the entire window/opening 850 and since the box cover 830 is securely held on the base

820, the flange-like structure of the top wall 832 of the box cover 830 serves to apply a

force to the protective shirt cover 840 and prevent it from upward movement out of the

compartment 860. In this manner, the protective shirt cover 840 is securely held in place

and the appearance of the protective shirt cover 840 relative to the box cover 830 is one of

a taut nature.

It will be appreciated and as illustrated, at least the opposing side panels 846 seat

against the floor 822 of the base 820; however, the shorter end panels 844 do not

necessarily have to seat against the floor 822 and as shown in Fig. 24, the end panels 844

can have a height that is slightly less than the height of the side panels 846 and therefore,

the end panels 844 do not seat against the floor 822. However, even in this embodiment,

the height of the end panel 844 is selected so that the end panel 844 extends a substantial length of the end wall 824 of the base 820 as illustrated. The longer side panels 46 extend

completely to the floor 822.

However, it will be appreciated that the end panels 844 can be formed so that they

extend completely to the floor 822 in the same manner as the side panels 846.

As mentioned earlier, one of the disadvantages to having a protective plastic sheet

directly attached to the underside of the box cover is that this type of arrangement is much

more prone to fracture since a force applied directly to the top of the plastic sheet in the

area of the window can easily cause a local dislodgment of the plastic sheet from the

underside of the box cover. Not only does this create an unsightly appearance since the

tautness of the plastic sheet is lost but it also jeopardizes the integrity of the object (e.g., a

shirt) that is contained within the box since a person could easily insert a finger or other

object into the area of dislodgment and come into direct contact with the object. In the case

of a shirt contained in the compartment, the shirt could become soiled by such contact.

Preferably and as shown in the Fig, 23, the shirt box 800 is formed with an opening

870 in one of the surfaces (e.g., the floor 822) that forms the box. Opening 870 is

positioned such that the outline of the hole overlies a portion of the article, such as a shirt,

that is contained in the box 800. This arrangement provides access to the garments inside

the shirt box 800 so that consumers can touch and feel the garments yet does not

compromise the structural integrity of the box 800, especially, the integrity of the

transparent protective shirt cover 840.

Figs 25 and 26 illustrate a second position of the components of the box 800 and

more specifically, the box cover 830 has been removed from its position where it is inserted

over the base 820 and instead, is placed on an underside or bottom of the base 820. In

other words, the box cover 830 is removed and lifted off the base 820 so as to expose the protective shirt cover 840 and then is inverted and mated with the base 820 by receiving the

base 820 within an interior space 831 that is defined by the end walls 832 and side walls

834 of the box cover 830. In this manner, the base 820 is received within the box cover

830 so that the end and side walls 834, 836 of the box cover 830 are received over and

exterior to the corresponding end and side walls 824, 826 of the base 820 as is shown in

Fig. 26. Once again, even in this arrangement, the top panel 842 of the protective shirt

cover 840 lies generally in the same plane as the top edges of the upstanding walls of both

the base 820 and the box cover 830.

It will be appreciated that even in this second position when the box cover 830 is

inverted and mated with the bottom of the base 820, the opening 870 is still accessible and

the article in the box can be touched since the opening or window 850 is in registration with

the opening 870 and the window 850 is free of any transparent, protective plastic sheet

since, according to the present invention, the protective shirt cover 840 is completely

separate from the box cover 830. The ability to access the opening 870 would not be

possible with conventional box design where the window of the box cover is formed by

adhering a transparent plastic sheet around a cutout formed in the box cover since the

plastic sheet is permanently attached across the cutout and therefore, it would prevent a

person from accessing the opening 870 in the floor 822 if the box cover was placed in the

second position shown in Figs. 25 and 26.

It will also be appreciated that the arrangement of the protective shirt cover 840

relative to the box cover 830 in the box 800 of the present invention provides improved

stacking capability since the stacking of boxes applies a force, due its weight, to the

underlying box and therefore, in the standard box cover design, in which the transparent

plastic sheet is attached directly the box cover, the weight of one box can puncture and W 2 locally separate the plastic sheet from its point of attachment to the shirt box since the mass

of the top box can not be borne by thin plastic sheet that is only attached along its

peripheral edges to the underside of the box cover. Not only does this damage the integrity

of the box but it also blemishes the appearance of the box. In contrast, since the protective

shirt cover 840 is a separate, self-supported, upstanding structure, relative to the box cover

830, the shirt cover 840 is able to better support the weight of the top stacked box, which is

also supported by the flange sections of the box cover 830. Since there is no direct

attachment between the protective shirt cover 840 and the box cover 830, the weight of the

top stacked box cannot cause detachment of the protective shirt cover from the box cover.

Instead, the self-supporting, free standing protective shirt cover 840 offers improved weight

bearing capabilities.

While the invention has been described in connection with certain embodiments

thereof, the invention is capable of being practiced in other forms and using other materials

and structures. Accordingly, the invention is defined by the recitations in the claims

appended hereto and equivalents thereof.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A shirt box suitable for receiving a shirt or shirt and tie combination, comprising: a single sheet of substantially transparent plastic; a plurality of fold lines in the plastic sheet including a first set of generally parallel fold lines and a second set of generally parallel fold lines; a plurality of notches through the plastic sheet generally extending in a first direction; a series of first panels each being separated from a next panel in the series by a respective fold line in the first set of fold lines, the first panels being foldable along said respective fold lines in the first direction to define a hollow central cavity for the shirt box; a set of second panels each having a boundary along a respective fold line in the second set of fold lines to a respective first panel, each having a free end opposite the boundary, and each being adjacent at least one of the notches, the second panels being foldable along said respective fold lines in a second direction which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction to define first and second peripheral ends of the shirt box; a bond permanently connecting one of the first panels to another of the first panels, wherein the another panel is after at least the next panel in the series of first panels; a first and second double-sided tape member, each tape member having a first side in adhesive contact with a respective second panel and having a second side; and first and second removable strips overlying the second side of the first and second double-sided tape members, respectively, wherein the shirt box has a collapsible state in which first and second removable strips

overlie the first and second tape members, and a second state in which the second side of at least one of the tape members is in adhesive contact with one of the panels and in which the hollow central cavity is sized to receive the shirt or shirt and tie combination.

2. The shirt box of claim 1 , wherein a stable second state comprises both of the first and second tape members being in contact with a respective first panel and wherein the plastic material has a stiffness to support a weight of a plurality of said short boxes containing respective shirts or shirt and tie combinations.

3. The shirt box of claim 1, further comprising chamfered corners on at least a portion of the free ends.

4. The shirt box of claim 1, wherein the second panels extend symmetrically from opposing margins of the first panels.

5. The shirt box of claim 1, wherein the fold line is continuous.

6. The shirt box of claim 1 , wherein the fold line comprises a score line in the plastic sheet.

7. The shirt box of claim 1 , wherein the bond comprises an adhesive glue.

8. The shirt box of claim 1 , wherein the bond comprises a weld joining said one first panel to said another first panel

9. The shirt box of claim 1, wherein at least one notch has a depth equal to width of at least one of said first panels.

10. A shirt box suitable for receiving a shirt or shirt and tie combination, consisting of: a single sheet of substantially transparent plastic; a plurality of fold lines in the plastic sheet including a first set of generally parallel fold lines and a second set of generally parallel fold lines; a plurality of notches through the plastic sheet generally extending in a first direction; a series of first panels each being separated from a next panel in the series by a respective fold line in the first set of fold lines, the first panels being foldable along said respective fold lines in the first direction to define a hollow central cavity for the shirt box; a set of second panels each having a boundary along a respective fold line in the second set of fold lines to a respective first panel, each having a free end opposite the boundary, and each being adjacent at least one of the notches, the second panels being foldable along said respective fold lines in a second direction which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction to define first and second peripheral ends of the shirt box; a bond permanently connecting one of the first panels to another of the first panels, wherein the another panel is after at least the next panel in the series of first panels; a first and second double-sided tape member, each tape member having a first side in adhesive contact with a respective second panel and having a second side; and first and second removable strips overlying the second side of the first and second double-sided tape members, respectively,

wherein the shirt box has a collapsible state in which first and second removable strips overlie the first and second tape members, and a stable, second state in which the second side of at least one of the tape members is in adhesive contact with one of the panels and in which the hollow central cavity is sized to receive the shirt or shirt and tie combination.

11. The shirt box of claim 10, wherein a stable second state comprises both of the first and second tape members being in contact with a respective first panel and wherein the plastic material has a stiffness sufficient to support a weight of a plurality of said shirt boxes containing respective shirts or shirt and tie combinations.

12. The shirt box of claim 10, wherein the second panels extend symmetrically from opposing margins of the first panels.

13. The shirt box of claim 10, wherein the fold line is continuous.

14. The shirt box of claim 10, wherein the fold line comprises a score line in the plastic sheet.

15. The shirt box of claim 10, wherein the bond comprises an adhesive glue.

16. The shirt box of claim 10, wherein the bond comprises a weld joining said one first panel to said another first panel.

17. The shirt box of claim 10, wherein at least one notch has a depth equal to width of at least one of said first panels.

18. A combination of clothing articles packaged for sale within a substantially transparent box comprising; a folded shirt having a collar; a necktie supported by the shirt; a substantially transparent box comprising a single sheet of plastic having a series of first panels each defined by a respective fold in a series of first folds in the plastic sheet and a set of second panels each defined by a respective fold in a set of second folds in the plastic sheet, the second panels being folded to define first and second peripheral ends of the box; and a bond permanently connecting one of the first panels to another of the first panels, wherein the panels are connected to define a hollow central cavity for the box, the hollow cavity being sized to receive the shirt and necktie; wherein the plastic sheet includes a hole positioned relative to the clothing articles such tihat the outline of the hole overlies a portion of the articles.

19. The combination of packaged clothing articles of claim 18, wherein the necktie comprises a length of fabric having first and second ends and at least one fold intermediate the first and second ends; further including: an elastic band passing transversely to the length of fabric within the fold and sized to be stretchably received about the shirt collar.

20. The combination of packaged clothing articles of claim 19, further comprising: a clip engaged with the fabric proximate to the fold, the clip pinching the fabric so as to emulate the appearance of a tie knot. _t

21. The combination of packaged clothing articles of claim 18, further comprising a loop disposed about the folded shirt and a channel adjacent the loop, wherein the necktie is disposed in the channel.

22. The combination of packaged clothing articles of claim 18, wherein the bond comprises a plurality of individual bond sites intermittently spaced apart.

23. The combination of packaged clothing articles of claim 22, wherein the individual bond sites are arranged in at least one line.

24. The combination of packaged clothing articles of claim 18, further comprising: a first and second double-sided tape member, each tape member having opposing sides

\ in adhesive contact with respective second panels.

25. The combination of packaged clothing articles of claim 24, wherein the necktie is disposed about the shirt collar and comprises a length of fabric having first and second ends and at least one fold intermediate the first and second ends; further including: an elastic band passing transversely to the length of fabric within the fold and sized to be stretchably received about the shirt collar.

26. The combination of packaged clothing articles of claim 25, further comprising: a clip engaged with the fabric proximate to the fold, the clip pinching the fabric so as to emulate the appearance of a tie knot.

27. The combination of packaged clothing articles of claim 24, further comprising a loop disposed about the folded shirt and a channel adjacent the loop wherein the necktie is disposed in the channel.

28. The combination of packaged clothing articles of claim 24, wherein the bond comprises a plurality of individual bond sites intermittently spaced apart.

29. The combination of packaged clothing articles of claim 28, wherein the individual bond sites are arranged in at least one line.

30. A shirt box suitable for receiving one or more shirts comprising: a single sheet of substantially transparent plastic; a plurality of fold lines in the plastic sheet including a first set of generally parallel fold lines and a second set of generally parallel fold lines; a series of first panels each being separated from a next panel in the series by a respective fold line in the first set of fold lines, the first panels being foldable along said respective fold lines in a first direction to define a hollow central cavity for the shirt box; and a set of second panels each having a boundary along a respective fold line in the second set of fold lines to a respective first panel, the second panels being foldable along said respective fold lines in a second direction which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction to define first and second peripheral ends of the shirt box; wherein first and second fastening panels that are part of the set of first panels are attached to another along a fastening region to connect the set of first panels in series and define the central cavity; wherein the shirt box has a collapsible state in which the sides of the collapsed box are defined by first and second fold lines that are part of the first set of fold lines and in the assembled state, the box has a substantially trapezoidal shape the sides of which are defined by a third fold line that is different from the first fold line and a fourth fold line that is different from the second fold line, wherein the first fastening panel is defined by the first and third fold lines.

31. The shirt box of claim 30, wherein the third fold line comprises the fastening region and defines one side of the box in the assembled state.

32. The shirt box of claim 30, wherein the second set of panels includes a first end panel and a second end panel that are bounded along the second set of fold lines to a bottom panel that is part of the first set of panels and defines a bottom of the shirt box in the assembled state, wherein each of the first and second end panels is intersected and partitioned into first and second sections by one fold line of the first set of fold lines.

33. The shirt box of claim 32, wherein the one fold line defines an inner edge of the first fastening panel.

34. The shirt box of claim 32, wherein the first section has a triangular shape.

35. The shirt box of claim 34, wherein a hypotenuse of the triangle intersects one end of the fastening region and one edge of the end panel.

36. The shirt box of claim 34, wherein each of the first and second end panels has a trapezoidal shape with one beveled side edge being a free edge of the first section and another beveled side edge being a free edge of the second section.

37. The shirt box of claim 32, wherein in the collapsed box, the first section is folded over a portion of the second section.

38. The shirt box of claim 36, wherein in the collapsed box, the pair of beveled edges that define the trapezoidal shape of the end panel when the box is assembled are substantially parallel to one another.

39. The shirt box of claim 30, wherein the first and second fastening panels are attached to one another by a crimped structure.

40. The shirt box of claim 30, wherein the set of first panels includes a bottom panel, a top panel and a pair of side panels that extend between the bottom and top panels, each of the first and second side panels being formed at an angle other than 90 degrees with respect to the top panel and the bottom panel.

41. The shirt box of claim 40, wherein in the collapsed box, one side panel lies adjacent and in the same plane as the bottom panel, while the other side panel lies above the bottom panel and in a different plane.

42. The shirt box of claim 30, wherein the first fold line is formed between the first fastening panel and a bottom panel that is part of the first set of panels, wherein in the collapsed box, the first fastening panel is folded over the bottom panel, while in the assembled state, the first fastening panel and the bottom panel lie at least substantially in the same plane.

43. The shirt box of claim 30, further including first and second double-sided tape members, each tape member having a first side in adhesive contact with a respective second panel and having a second side; and

first and second removable strips overlying the second side of the first and second double-sided tape members, respectively,

wherein in a first state, the first and second removable strips overlie the first and second tape members, and a second state in which the second side of at least one of the tape members is in adhesive contact with one of the panels and in which the hollow central cavity is sized to receive one or more shirts.

44. A shirt box suitable for receiving one or more shirts comprising:

a single sheet of substantially transparent plastic; a plurality of fold lines in the plastic sheet including a first set of generally parallel fold lines and a second set of generally parallel fold lines; a series of first panels each being separated from a next panel in the series by a respective fold line in the first set of fold lines, the first panels being foldable along said respective fold lines in a first direction to define a hollow central cavity for the shirt box; and a set of second panels each having a boundary along a respective fold line in the second set of fold lines to a respective first panel, the second panels being foldable along said respective fold lines in a second direction which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction to define first and second peripheral ends of the shirt box, the set of second panels including a pair of first end panels; wherein first and second fastening panels that are part of the set of first panels are attached to another along a fastening region to connect the set of first panels in series and define the central cavity, the first fastening panel being defined by an inner edge that is included in the first set of fold lines and intersects and partitions each of the first end panels into two sections; wherein the shirt box has a collapsed state in which the first fastening panel is folded about its inner edge so as to fold one section of the first end panel over the other section thereof, while in the assembled state, the box has a substantially trapezoidal shape and the first fastening panel is unfolded so that the two sections have a trapezoidal shape.

45. A combination of tuxedo clothing articles packaged for sale within a substantially transparent box comprising; a folded shirt having a collar; a necktie supported by the shirt; a folded cummerbund supported by a support structure; the transparent box of claim 30, wherein the folded shirt and necktie are disposed in a first section of the central cavity of the box and the folded cummerbund and the support structure are disposed in a second section of the central cavity that is adjacent the first section.

46. The combination of claim 45, wherein the support structure comprises a piece of cardboard.

47. A shirt box suitable for receiving a shirt, comprising: a base having a floor and a plurality of upstanding walls that define an interior compartment; a cover having a top wall and a plurality of walls that surround the top wall, wherein the top surface has a first opening formed therein; and a transparent protective member that has a top surface and a plurality of peripheral walls that surround the top surface so as to define a structure that is free standing and independent from both the base and the cover; wherein in an assembled state, the protective member is inserted into the interior compartment so that the first opening is positioned over a portion of the top surface of the protective member to permit a clear view of the underlying shirt, the peripheral walls of the protective member being supported by the floor of the base and being disposed adjacent the upstanding walls of the base and wherein the cover is mated with the base such that the walls of the cover frictionally seat against the upstanding walls of the base so as to securely hold the cover on the base and retain the protective member within the interior compartment.

48. A shirt box suitable for receiving a shirt, comprising: a base having a floor and a plurality of upstanding walls integral with the floor that define an interior compartment; a cover having a top wall and a plurality of walls that are integrally attached to the top wall around a periphery thereof, wherein the top surface has a first opening formed therein; and a transparent flexible plastic protective insert that has a top surface and a plurality of foldable panels that are attached to the top surface along fold line, wherein when the insert is disposed within the interior compartment for covering the shirt, the panels are folded about the fold lines to form a free standing structure that is independent and free of attachment to both the base and the cover, the free standing structure being supported by the floor of the base, with the folded panels being disposed adjacent the upstanding walls of the base; wherein the cover is mated with the base such that the walls of the cover frictionally seat against the upstanding walls of the base so as to securely hold the cover on the base and retain the protective member within the interior compartment.