WO2007121448A1

WO2007121448A1 - Divisible carton with keel

Info

Publication number: WO2007121448A1
Application number: PCT/US2007/066808
Authority: WO
Inventors: Julien Merzeau
Original assignee: Meadwestvaco Packaging Systems Llc
Priority date: 2006-04-17
Filing date: 2007-04-17
Publication date: 2007-10-25
Also published as: US20080054053A1

Abstract

A divisible carton (200) has a keel (150/152) or partition structure. The divisible carton (200) includes access opening (A1/A2, A1/A3) in a wall (218/220) to which the keel (150/152) is hingedly connected such that the access opening (A1/A2, A1/A3) facilitates erecting the keel (150/152). The modules (M1, M2) of the divisible carton (200) are detachably connected to one another such that the access opening can also be used as a grip hand hold for pulling the modules (M1, M2) apart. The keel (150/152) is a double ply structure formed from face contacting panels (150/152) that are detachably connected to one another along a frangible line (154) or by delaminating or otherwise separable detachable sections (G1, G2).

Description

- s -

DIVISIBLE CARTON WITH KEEL

EFEREHCE TO RELATED APPLiCATIOMS

This application claims priority Io U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/744,993. fifed Aprsi 17. 2006.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates generally to cartons, and more specifically to dlvsssbie cartons thai include a keel or parmion.

Cartons that are divisible to produce individual carton modules are useful since separation of the modules from one another does not caυse either module to be opened but merely detaches the modules from one another so that the modules can be transported: displayed, or sold individually.

Certain divisible cartons include a keel or partition that extends into the divisible carton and separates the articles in one module from those in the other When the divisible carton is arranged as a tubular structure to enable loading, the keei is to be substantially perpendicular to the wail of the tubular structure to which ? is connected to allow articles to be loaded on both Sides of the Keei without being obstructed by the keel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate tnar it ss difficult to control the position of the keei and. thus, the Keel can impede the loading process. What is needed Is a divisible carton that includes elements that facilitate controlling the position of the keel. What ss further needed Is a divisible carton that includes Improved means for detachabiv oo^nectino the modules to one another. SUM:

The various embodiments of the present invention overcome the shor lcomings of the pnor an by providing a divisible carton that Includes a keel or partition structure that can be reliably positioned so ss not to impede loading of the carton. The divisible carton includes an aperture or access opening in a wall to which the keel is hingedly connected; the access openings facilitate erecting or positioning the keel For example, hnoers, elements of a packaging machine, or other members can extend through the access openings to position or erect the keei.

Fnriher, the modules of the divisible carton can be detachabiy connected to one another. In certain embodiments, means for detachabiy connecting the modules to one another ss provided by an outer layer of a composite wail. The outer layer includes « frangible hne along which the rnoduies cars be separated. The frangible line can extend to end flaps, which are hmgediy connected to the outer layer, such that portions of the end flaps are also separated from one another in order to separate the modules Another frangible line can additionally detachabiy connect the distal ends of Keel panels that define me keel.

Another means for detachabiy connecting the modules to one another Is provided by detachable glue portions The detachable glue portions are defined in surfaces of the keel panels that are in Oat face contact with one another. The detachable glue portions are secured to one another or to the other of the keei panels to form the Keei. The detachable glue portions detach from their respective keel panels to facilitate separating the modules from one another.

According to an exemplary embodiment_: A carton includes a tubular structure. The lobular structure Includes a first wall thai Includes first and second panel portions Each of the first and second panel portions includes opposing Inner and outer side edges that are adjacent to one another The carton aiso includes a keei or partition structure that Is disposed within the tubular structure. The keel includes first and second keei panels that are In flat face contact with one another The first and second keei panels include proximal ssde edges thai are hmgedly connected to the inner side edges of the first and second panel portions along fold lines. The caftan further includes at leasi one aperture or access opening that is defined in the first wail or otherwise in one of the first and second panel portions The access opensng is positioned so as to be at ieast partially dosed by rh& keel or otherwise by one of the keei panels as the keel is folded such that said one of the Keel panels ss m fiat face contact with the one of the first and second panel portions.

In certain exemplary embodiments;, the tubular structure includes a second wall rhai is opposed to the first wail and each of lhe first and second keel panels includes a distai side edge that opposes a respective proximal Side edge The dssial side edges are spaced apart from the second wall.

The first and second keel panels are detachabiy secured to one another such that the keei is divisible Fo? example, m an exemplary embodiment, distal ssde edges of lhe keel panels are detachaoiy connected ro one another along a frangible line, in another exemplary embodiment one of the keel panels includes a detachable portion that is secured to the other of the keel panels, in other exemplary embodiments, each of the keel panels includes a detachable portion and the detachable portions are secured to one another to detachebiy secure the keei panels to one another.

Further, the modules of the divisible canon can be detachably secured to one another by a composite wail that includes a frangible line in one of the layers or pϊies thereof. For example, the first wail can include an Inner ply and an outer ply such that the inner ply includes the first and second panei portions and an ouser ply Includes third and fourth panei portions that overlap the first and second panei portions. The third and fourth panel portions are detachably connected ro one another along a frangible line that is adjacent to rhe inner side edges of lhe first and second inner panel portions. In such embodiments, at least one of the third and fourth panel portions includes at least one access open-ng that aligns with the at least one access opening in the at least one of the first and second panel portions. In cerrain embodiments, the outer layer of the composite wail includes an access opening that interrupts the frangible line In certain embodiments, the tubular structure ss collapsible into flat form so that it can be conveniently stored and shipped

The foregoing has broadly outlined some of the aspects and features of the present invention, which should be construed Io be merely ϋiuslralive of various potential applications, of the invention. Other beneficial results can be obtained by applying the disclosed information in a different manner or by combining various aspects o? the disclosed embodiments. Accordingly, other aspects and a more comprehensive understanding of the invention may be obtained by referring to the detailed description of the exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in addition to the scope of the invention defined by the claims

F^G, 1 is a plan viev^/ of an exemplary blank for forming a divisible carton, according to an embodiment of the invention.

£"S are perspective views of a *ubuiar structure formed from the blank of FtG. 1 , which illustrate steps of an exemplary method of forming an end closure structure, the tubular structure being shown in partial perspective views m FIGs. 3-5.

FIGs. S and ? are partial end and perspective views of a tear strip.

FlG. 8 is a plan view of another exemplary blank for forming a divisible carton, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention

FIGs, S-II are perspective vsews of a tubular structure formed from the blank of F^δ. 8. which illustrate steps of another exemplary method of forming an end closure structure.

FIG. 12 is a plan view of an exemplary biank for forming a divisible carton, according to another alternative embodiment of the invention.

13-16 are perspective views of a tubular structure formed from the biank of FIG, 12, which sϋuslrate steps of another exemplary memod of forming an end closure structure, the tubular structure being shown in partial perspective views sn RGs. 14-16

As required, delated embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. K must De understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may De embodied in vanous and alternative forms, and combinations thereof. As, used herein, the word "exemplary^" ss used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, modeis. or patterns. THe figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minis nl?ed to show details of particular components, in other instances, weihknown components, systems, maieπals, or methods have nor been described m detail sn order to avoid obscuring the present invention, Therefore, specie structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for ϋie claims and as a representative basss for teaching one- skilled in the art so variously employ the present invention.

Refernng now ro the drawings, wherein IiKe numerals indicate like elements throughout the several views, she drawings illustrate certain of the various aspects of exemplary embodiments of a divisible carton that includes a keel or partition structure The keel is formed from a pair of keei panels that are deiachably connected to or>e another The divisible carton includes an aperture or access opening in a wall to which the Keel is hingediy connected such that the access openings facilitate erecting or positioning the keel, tor example, during the process of loading articles into the divisible carton.

Refernng to FIG. 1 , an exemplary embodiment of a blank 100 is shown that can be folded a^d secured lo form an exemplary carton 200 (shown in FtG. 5} in the embodiments described herein, the exemplary blanks can be formed from a single sheet of suitable substrate it is lo be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate ^' includes all manner of foidabie sheet mafenai including paperboard. corrugated board, cardboard, piast-c, combinations thereof, and the like. Further in the illustrated embodiments, a unitary blank ss used to form a Single canon, although A should be recognized that two or more blanks may be employed, for example, >o provide the cartons described in further detail below. Further, the blanks are designed to form cartons for packaging exemplary arrangements of articles It is envisaged that ?he blanks can be sized *o form cartons for packaging venous other articles and/or arrangements of articles.

As used heresn, the tern fold line refers to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank wsth respect to one another, or otherwise srsdsoate optional panel folding locations for the blank. Typically, means for defining a fold line include a scored line, an embossed line, or a debossed line

The ierrn severance lsne refer to ail manner of lines a^ong tha? facilitate separating portions of >he substrate from one another such as by cutting or tearing or that indicate optimal separation locations. Severance lines may include, lor example, frangible or otherwise weakened lines, cut lines, fear hnes, or slits

It should be understood that severance hnes and fold lines can each include elements tha* are formed in the substrate or the bianH For example, such elements can include perforations, a line of perforations, a Hne of short slits, a line of half -cuts, a ssngie half-cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut isne, slits, scores, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the cleared functionality. For example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed to provide different degrees of weakness and thereby define a fold ime and/or a severance line The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and iacsiifate breaking wkh more effort, or so facilitate breaking wsth httie effort.

A plan view of the outside surface of the blank 100 ;s shown sn RG. 1 , The blank 100 includes primary panels that form the walls of a tn&uia? structure of the carton 200. end slaps that form end closure structures W of the carton 200, a^d keel panels that ϊorm the keel of the carton 200, The primary panels and keel panels are aligned along a longitudinal axss of she blank 100 and are hsngedly connected one to the next along fold lines that extend transversely vyith respect to the longitudinal axis, In the exemplary embodiment the primary panels of the blank 100 include a top penes 112, first and second side panels 114, 116, an outer bottom panel 118/120 that includes first and second outer bottom panel portions 118, 129, and first and second inner bottom panel portions 156, 1S8 The blank 100 further includes parhiion panels or keel panels ISO, 162

The inner bottom panel ponsoos 156. 158 provide an Inner layer of a composite divisible bottom wall of a carton and the outer bottom panel portions I IS. 120 provide an outer layer of the composite divisible bottom wall as described in fυKher detail below The inner and outer divisible bottom wall portions 156, 1S8, 118. 120 each correspond to a module MI ₁ M2 of the divisible carton 200, In other exemplary embodiments, panel portions can define a single layer oottom wall.

The first and second side panels 114, 116 are hsngedly connected to opposing side or transverse edges of me top panel 112 along fold lines 122, 124, respectively, and the outer bottom panel 118/120 rs hingedly connected to a side edge of ?ne second side panel 116 along a fold ύne 126, The first and second outer bottom panel portions I IS 120 are detachabiy connected to one another along a frangible bne 128 The first inner bottom panel 1 S6 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 114 along a fold line 184, the first keel panel ISO ss hsngedly connected to me flr&t inner bottom panel portion 156 along a fold line 160, the first and second Reel panels ISO, 152 are hingedly and detaohab-iy connected to one another along a frangsbie line 154, and the second keel panel 150 is hsngβdiy connected to ihe second snne?^" bottom panel porϋon 158 along a fold hoe 162

End Haps are hingedly connected to opposite ends of each of Ihe pnma?'y panels and keel panels along longitudinal fold isnes. The end flaps can be folded and secured to form end closure structures W at respective open ends of the tubular structure of the carton 200, as described ;n further detail below, in the exemplary embodiment, the blank 100 ;s substantially symmetric such that the end flaps that are hingedly connected to the opposite ends of each pπmary panel and keel panel are substantially similar. Accordingly, ihe end flaps attached to the opposite ends of each primary panel and keel panel are substantially identical and like references have been used wim & sufi^'ix "a" or "b^v affixed to distinguish one end of the blank 100 from the other Thus, the description of en element or group of elements having & suffix ^"a^" is suitable for a like- numbered element or group of elements having a suffix ^"b^" in certain instances, for clarity, only one of the like elements may be described unless a description of the other or both of the like elements, is useful for understanding the invention

A top end fiap 130a is, hingediy connected to the top panel 112 aiong a fold iiπe 140s, a first Side end fiap 132a is hingediy connected the first side panel 114 aiong a fold line 142a_: a second side end flap 134a rs hingediy connected to the second side panel 116 aiong a fold line 144a, and a bottom end flap 136a/138a is hingediy connected to the outer bottom panel 118/120 along e fold line 14βa/148a. The bottom end fiap 136a/138a Includes first and second outer bottom end flap portions 136a, 138a that are detachabiy connected io one another aiong the frangible line 128 and that are hingediy connected to the first and second outer bottom panel portions 118. 120 along segments 144®. 14^βa of the fold line 144a/146a. Further, stabilizing flaps 170a, 172a are hingediy connected to the keel panels 150, 1S2 aiong fold lines IBOa. 182a, respectively, and inner bottom end flap portions 174a, 1?6a are hingediy connected to the inner bottom panel portions 156, 156 aiong fold lines 1S4a_; 18Sa, respectively. In the exemplary embodiments, the fold lines 184a, Iδ€a are interrupted by congestion relieving apertures M.

Each stabilizing flap 170a, 1?2a is operativeiy connected to an adjacent inner bottom end flap portion 1?4a, 176a by a gusset or connecting lab 188a, 190a. Specifically, one end of the each of the connecting tabs 188&. 199a is hingediy connected io a respective one of she inner bottom end flap portions 174a, 176a along a fold line 104a, 13Sa and the opposite end of each of me connecting tabs 188a, 190a Is hingediy connected to a respective one of me stabilizing flaps 17Qa, 172a aiong a fold line 192a, 19Sa. It should be understood that the fold lines that hingediy connect the opposite ends of the connecting teos to end flaps are at an acute angle with respect to one another such that the end flaps are operativeiy folded tooether, as described in further detail below. Trie blank 100 includes an arrangement of frangible lines Fi, Fo that define a detachable portion or teas' s^n^'p T Each of the frangible hnes FL Fo extends transversely between the longitudinal edges of the blank 100 across me top end (lap 130a, me top pane! 112, and the lop end flap 130b. Referring to FiGs. 6 and ?, In the exemplary embodiment, the arrangement of frangible lines Fs. Fo includes mside frangible lines Fi, which are half cuts disposed

the inside surface of the top panel 112 and the top end flaps 130a, 13Db, and outside frangible lines Fo, which are naif cuts deposed in the outside surface of me top panel 112 arid the iop e^o flaps 13δa, 130b. The in-side frangible ls^es Fr and the outside frangible lines Fo are offset from, spaced apart from, or otherwise misaligned with one another Thereby. ?he tear strip T is resistant to being broκen by an outside force on the frangsDie lsnes Fi. Fo or otherwise resists inadvertent operation due to inward pressure on the top panel 112 or top end flaps 130a, 130b when she carton 200 is erected. The tear strip T can De separated from the carton 200 by piling on an snd of tear strip T, as shown Ir* FlG. ?. such thai a tear develops between She frangible lines Fi, Fo as ss propagated along the length of the tear strip T in the exemplary embodiment, the outer bottom panel 11S/120 includes an aperture AI , which interrupts the frangible line 120 so as to be partially disposed in each of ?he outer bottom panel portions 118, 120. Each of the inner bottom panel portions IS€, 158 includes apertures Al, A3, which are disposed adjacent to a respective foid line 160, 162. As described m further detail below, the aperture At is positioned m the blank 100 such that it aligns with the combination of the apertures A2, A3 when She blank 100 ss folded and secured to form the erected divisible carton 200. In addition, the apertures AI , A2. A3 are sized, shaped, and positioned to receive machine elements, human fingers, or other members so as to facilitate erecting a keel or partition

Referring to FIGs. 1 and 2, to form tne divisible canon 200 from the blank an exemplary method ss described The keel panels 1 SO, 162 are folded along the foidable frangible line 1S4 and along the fold lines 160, 162 such that the outside surfaces of the keel panels 150. 152 are m fiat face contact With one another and such that the fold lines 160, 182 are adjacent to one another. Thereby, the keel panels ISO, 152 form a divisible separator partition or keel 160/152 that includes a distal edge? defined by the fold^'able frangible sine 154, The side edges of the inner bottom pane! portions 156, 158, which are defined by the foici lines 160, 162, are disposed adjacent ?o or are abutting one another such that the inner bottom panel poisons 156, 158 define a substantially unitary inner bottom panel 156/158 and such that the apertures A2, A3 define a substantially unitary aperture or access opening A2/A3 Thus, the proximal edge of the Keel 150/1 §2 is Nngediy connected to the inner bottom panes 156/158 because the side edges of the keel panels 150_: 152 are hingediy connected to the side edges of the inner bottom panel portions 1 Sδ, 158 along the fold lines 160, 162

To form a collapsed tubular structure, the mside surface of the outer bottom panei 118/120 is secured, using adhesive or other means for securing sheet material, to the outside surface of the inner bottom panei 156/1 §8 to define a composite divisible bottom wall 218/220. According to an exemplary method of accomplishing this step, the inner bottom panel 1 §6/158 is folded along she fold iine 164 toward sine inside surface of the first side panel 114, Thereby, the keel 150/152 is in fiat face contact with both the inner bottom panel 15671S8 and the first side pane? 114 It should be undeisiood that the keel I SO/152 can be foided in either direction such that the Keel panel I SO >s in flat face contact with the inner bottom panel portion 1S6 or such that me keel panel 152 is In Oat race contact with ine inne? bottom panei portion 158. Thereafter, the pi&nk 100 is folded along the fold fine 124 such that the outer bottom panei 110/120 overlaps the Inner bottom panel 158/158. Adhesive is applied between the overlapping bottom panels 118/120, 1 SS/158 such that the overlapping bottom panels 118/120\ 156/158 are secured to one another to form the composite bottom wall 218/220,

The outer bottom panel 118/120 and the inner bottom panel 156/158 overlap one another such that the frangible line 128 is adjacent to and aligns with the fold lines 160, 162 Respective inner and outer bottom was? portions 1 18, 120, ISO. 158 are secured to one another on opposite sides of the irangloie line 128. Further, the aperture Al aligns with the access opening A2/A3 to define access openings A1/A2, A1/A3 in the composite bottom wail 218/220 Additionally, adhesive is applied to secure the outer surface of each the inner bottom end flap portions 1?4s, 1?øa to the inside surface of a respective portion of the Outer bottom end flap 13Sa/138a to define a composite bottom end flap 236a/238® Is should be understood thai adhesive is not applied to any of ihe stabilizing flaps 170a. 1?2a_s the connecting tabs 10Ba. 190a_: or the keel panels ISO, 152.

It should be noted thai, when the tubular structure is In a collapsed form, the keel 150/152 Is collapsed so as Io be folded into fiat face contact wsih the inner bottom panel ponioπ I SS such that the access opening A1/.A3 Is at least partially obstructed or so as to be folded into fiat face contact WRh the Inner bottom panel portion 158 such thai the access opening A1/A2 ss at leasi partially obstructed

The collapsed tubular structure can be erected to form a tubular structure, as shown m FfG. 2, thai includes the div-ssbie bottom wall 218/220, a top wail defined by lop panel 112, a f srsr side wail del lned by first side panel 114, and a second side wall defined by second side panel 116. The keel I SO/152 can thereafter be erected from a collapsed condition, where the Keel 150/152 ;s in fiat face contact With the divisible bottom wail 218/220 such that one of the access openings A1/A2, A1/A3 is at least partially obstructed by the koel ISO/152. The access openings A1/A2, A1/A3 are positioned substantially adjacent to the proximal end of the keel 150/1 S2 such lhai the access openings A1/A2, A1/A3 allow access to the keel 150/152 from the outside ol the tubular structure.

Articles (not shown) are typically loaded through the open ends of the erected tubular structure when arranged as shown in FIG. 2. To load articles through the open ends, the keei 1 §0/152 ss erected so as to be substantially perpendicular to the divisible bottom wsli 218/220. The keel 150/152 can be erected as machine elements or human fingers are received in one or Doth of the access openings A1/A2, A1/A3 so as to contact one or both sides of the keel ISO/152 Articles can thereafter be properly loaded without causing damage to the carton, without causing damage to the articles, and without interrupting the packaging process. Upon, or during the process of, loading ariscϊes into the divisible carton 200, the machine elements can be removed from the access openings A1/A.2, A1/A3 and the articles themselves will contact opposite sides of the keei 150/1 §2 to maintain the keei 159/152 in an erected position. Further, the erected position of the keei 150/152 is fixed during the process of forming the end closure structures W of the divisible carton 200. as described in further detail below.

Refernπg to FIGs, 2-5. the end closure structures W of the d-vssible carton 200 are formed according to an exemplary method Referring Io FiGs. 2 and 3, the composite bottom end flap 23Sa/238a is folded outwardly so as to be substantially perpendicular to the divisible composite bottom wall 218/220 In folding the composite bottom end flap 236a/238a as such, the connecting tabs 188a. 190a . which are hingediy connected to the inner bottom end flaps 13Sa₅ 138a, position the stabilizing flaps 1?0a, 172a so as to be substantially oopianar with rhe composite bottom end flap 236a/238a and thereby partially close an open end of the divisible carton 200. in th-s position, the stabilizing flaps 1?0a. 172a are subsianhaϋy perpendicular to the keei 150/152 and function to maintain the keel 150/162 in a position that is substantially perpendicular to the divisible composite bottom wail 218/220 as she end closure structures W of the divisible carton 200 are additionally formed

Refemng to FIGs, 3 and 4. the top end flap 130a and the composite bottom end flap 236a/238a are folded inwardly so as to be substantially coplanar with one another. Respective portions of the composite bottom end flap 23βa/238a are thereby in a face contacting relationship with, and are secured to, respective ones oi the stabilizing flaps 170s. 172&. Referring to FIGs. 4 and S, the Side end flaps 132a, 134a are folded inwardly to overlap corresponding portions of the top end flap 130a and to overlap respective portions of the composite bottom end flap 23Sa/.23δa. Trie overlapping portions of the er^d Haps are secured to one another to form the end closure structure W of the divisible carton 200. it should be understood thai the side end flaps 132a, 134a do not overlap the segments of the frangible lines Fo. Fl that extend across the top end flap 130a or otherwise do not overlap the portion of the tear strip T that is defined in the top end flap 130a Thus, the tear strip T ss noi obstructed as it *s detached from the divisible carton 200. To separate the divisible carton 200 info modules t$1 _: IVI 2, the fear strip T is detached along the frangible hnes F₁, F₀ and the modules Ml _^ &12 are pulled apart to break me frangible lines 128. 1S4 and thereby separate the divisible bottom wsii 218/220, the composite bottom end flaps 236a/238a, end the keel 150/152. The access openings A1/A2, A1/A3 can be used to gπp the modules Ml , U2 of the divisible carton 200 to puil apart the modules Ml , M2. Upon separation of the moduies IVtI, M2, each module Ml , M2 includes a respective portion of the keel 250. 252, a respective portion of the composite bottom end flap 236a. 23Ba, and a respective portion of the composite bottom wall 218. 220. Since the keel portions 2SO, 252 do nor extend to me top wail 212, the articles sre displayed sn the individual modules ^l rVI2 and are accessible through openings between the keel 250. 252 and the top wail 212.

Other exemplary embodiments are illustrated in FIGs, 8-11 and FIGs, 12-16 Certain elements, in each of the embodiments are substantially ssmiiar to one another such that the description of the element with respect to the first exemplary embodiment ss sufficient for elements wirh respect to the second and third embodiments. These elements will be simiiarly numbered for each of the embodiments and will not be describee in detail for the second and third embodiments. To differentiate be-ween the embodiments, element numbers that are used in the first embodiment are increased by a factor of two hundred for the second embodiment and are increased by a factor of four hundred for the third embodiment. For example, the top panel 112 in the first embodiment ss designated as top panel 312 in the second embodiment and top panel 512 in the third embodiment. For cianty. the description of the second and third embodiments will focus on the new features fnereol. in a second exemplary embodiment shown in FIOs, 8-11 _t a blank 300 (shown in FIG. S) is illustrated that can be folded arid secured to form a carton 400 (shewn ;n FIG. 11). The blank 300 includes connecting tabs CI, C2 which are hϊngedly connected between the side end flaps 332a, 334a and a respective one of the top end flap 330a and bottom end flap portions 374a, 338a. SpeαhcaHy, a first end of each of the bottom connecting tabs Cl ss hiπgediy connected to one of the bottom end flap porπons 374a, 338a along a fold line EI and a second end of each of the bottom connecting tabs Cl Is hingediy connected Io one of the side end Haps 332«, 334a along a fold line E2 Similarly, a first end of each of the lop connecting tabs C2 is hingediy connected to the top end flap 330a along a fold line E3 end a second end of each of the top connecting tabs C2 is hingediy connected to one of the side end flaps 332a, 334a along a fold l;ne E4 The connecting tabs CI . C2 facilitate positioning the side end flaps 332a, 334a to form the end closure structures.

The olanh 300 also includes corner panels F₁ which are disposed between one of ?he side panels 314, 316 anci a respective one o-t the side end flaps 332a. 334a. Specifically each of the corner panels P is hingediy connected to one of the side panels 314, 31 S along a fold Uπe ES and is hingediy connected to a respective one of the side end flaps 332a. 334a along a fold line Eβ

A collapsible tubular structure can be formed from the blank 300 according to the method described above lor the blank 100. Thus, (he tubular structure includes a composite bottom wail 418/420 formed from the outer and Inner bottom wall portions 318, 320, 356. 358. Further, composite rx>ttom end flaps 438aM38a ere formed from the outer and inner bottom wall end flap portions 336a. 338a, 374a, 37Sa.

Referring to FIGs, 9 and 10. as the top end flap 330a and the composite bottom end flap 436a/438s are each folded outwardly to be subsianύaily perpendicular to ihe lop and bottom wails 312, 418/420 of the divisible carton 400. the connecting tabs Cl _> C2 cause the side end flaps 332a, 334a to fold inwardly to be substantially co^lar^ar with the top end flap 330a and tbe composite bottom end flap 43fSa/438a. Further, as the composite bottom end flap 43βa/438a is teided ^■)utward!y, connecting tabs 383a, 390a, which are hingediy connected to both the stabilising Haps 370a, 372s and the Inner bottom end flaps 374a, 376a, respectively, unction to ?o!d the stabilizing flaps 370®. 372a towards the open end of the divisible carton 400 such that the stabilizing flaps 370a 3?2a are substantially copianar with the top end flap 330a, the composite bottom end flap 43Sa/438a. and the side end flaps 332a, 334a, in the exemplary embodiment, a portion of each of the stabilizing fiass 370a, 372s overlaps a oortion of a respective one of the side end fiaos 332a, 14a Referring ^§o FIGs. 10 and 11 , the top end flap 330s and the composite boitorn 3δa/3?4a_: 338a/3?6a are folded inwardly to overlap the side end flaps and the stabilizing flaps 3?Ga, 372a. Overlapping portions of the end flaps are secured to one another and, thereby, rhe end closure structures W are formed.

Referring ?o RGs. 12-1δ> in another alternative embodiment, a blank SOO (shown in FIG, 12) can be folded and secured to form a divisible carton SCK) {shows^"* in FIG, 16). In this embodiment the keel panels are hingedly connected along ihe outermost longitudinal side edges of the series of primary panels. Specifically, fsrsr and second keei panels S50. S52 a?e hinged Iy connected to first and second bottom panel portions SSCk 558 along feid lines 560, 562, respectively. Stabilizing flaps §?θa, 573a are hingedly connected Io end edges ol each keel panel §50, §52 along fold iines SSOa, 582a. respectively.

Each stabilizing flap 570a, 572a is connected to an adjacent bottom flap portion 574a, $?θa by a connecting tab SSSa. 890a, respectively Opposing ends of each of the coπnecsing tab SSSa, 590a are hingedly connected Io one of the bottom flap portions 574a. 57Sa and to one of the stabilizing flaps 570a, 572a along fold lines, respectively.

Each of the keei panels 550, 552 include a detachable glue portion GI , 62 defined by a frangible line 581 , 583, respectively The frangible lines SBl , S83 are extensively weakened such as by a continuous half out or a series oi half outs which enable a layer, that is an outermost larninaϋon, of the detachable glue portion 61 , G2 to easily be lifted or peeled away from a layer that is an inner lamination. Thus, the frangible lines 581, 583 need not extend through the entire thickness of the keel panel §50. §52. Further, each bottom panel S5ø_; §58 includes an aperture AI , Al which is at least partially defined by the fold line 560, $62, respectively.

Referring to FIGs, 12 and 13, in this embodiment, a composite layer cte^ned by an outer bottom panel is not needed to hold the bottom panel portions 556, 558 togelher and is mus omsUed. A tubular structure is formed by gluing or securing the detachable qiue portions GI, G2 of me keei panels 650, 552 toqsthe? to form a keel etemenis through the apertures or access openings AI₁ A2. Refemng to F^Gs, 13- 16. the end closures of ihe divisible carton 600 are formed m subslanbaHy the same manner as described above

The dsvissbie car^on 600 ;s d'VirJed into modules 1^1. IW1.2 by detaching the teas- strip T and puiung the modules !VII ₁ M2 apart such that ooe or both of the glue portions GI ₁ 62 are detached fnorn rhe respective keei panel 5SO, 5S2 The access openings can provide e hand hold for grasping the modules and separating the panels of the keel

The above-σescnbed embodiments are merely exemplary ilkistralsons of irnpsemenlaiions set fortn for a ciea? understanding of ihe pnnclpies of the invention. Varsations. modifications, and combinations may be made to rhe above-described embodiments wsmout departing from ihe scope of the ciairns AP such vaπalionc. modihcabons, and combinations are inciuded heresπ by the scope of this disclosure and the foiiov^ino claims.

Claims

CLAfPS

1 . A tubular end loaded carton {200} thai is divisible into separate modules {Ml . M2), comprising- a first waH (218/220) formed at feast ;n part from a first pane! portion (156) and a second panel portion (158) each having inner side edges (160. 162) that are adjacent to one another. a keei (150/152) disposed within said tubular structure, said keel (150/152) comprising a first keei panei (150) and a second keei panei {152} that are m fiat face contact with one another, said first keei panei { 150} being hingediy connected along said mner side edge {160) to said first panei portion (156} and said second keei panei (152) being hingediy connected along said inner side edge (162) to said second panei portion (158); and a? least one access opening {A2, A3} for facilitating manipulation of said keel from the outside of said carton, said ar least one opening besno; defined in at least one of said first, and second panei portions {156, 158}.

2. The carton (200} of claim 1 , wherein said carton (200) further comprises a second wail {112} thai is opposed to said first wail (218/220}. and said keei (150/152) includes a distal edge ( 154) that is spaced apart from said second wail (112)

3 The carton (200) of claim 2, wherein said Orst and second keei panels (I SO. 152} are deiachaøly connected io one another such thai said keei (150/152) is divisible to at ieasi partially define one of said modules (Ml ,. MS) of she carton (200).

4 The carton (200) of claim 3, wher&tn said keel panels (150, 152) are detachable connected to oπs another along a frangible line (154} thai defines said disiai edge ⁽154) of said Reel (150/152) - I S -

5 The carton (200) of claim 3. wheresn at least one of said keel panels (I SO, 152) comprises at ieasi one deiaenable potion (Gi . G2}_s vyneresn sa>α at least one detachable portion {G1 , G2} detaohably secures said keel panels (150, 152} to o^e another.

δ. The carton {200} of clairo 3, wherein eacn of sad keel panels (15O₁ 152} comprises a detachable portion (Gi , G2), wherein said detachable portions (Gi . G2} are secured to one another to detachable secure said keel panels (150, 152} ?o one another.

7 Tne carton (200) of ciasrr: 1 . wheresn said Ursi wail (218/220) comprises an snner ply and an outer ply, said inne^ piy composing said first and second panel portions (156, 158), arid said outer ply comprising a tn^d panel portion (1 18) and fourth panel portion { 120} that overlap said first and second pane: portions (156, 158), respectively

8 The carton (200) of ciann 7, wr^eres^ said third and Fouαh panel ponsons (1 18, 120} are detachabiy connected so one another along a frangible hoe (128).

9. The cadon (200} of dairn 7. wheresn at least one of said third and fourth panel portions (118, 120) comprises at least one access opening (AI ) thas aligns with said at least one access opening {A2, A3) sn said at least one of said fifsi and second pane! portions {156. 158).

10 The carton (200) of ciasm 7, wherein said frangsQte hr*e ( 128) s-s adjacent to sa.d inner side edges (100, 1625 of said Urst and second panel portions (156, 158)

1 1 The carton {200} of claim 10, wherssn said third and fourth panel portions (1 18, 120} comprise an access opening (AI ) that interrupts said frangible line {128} and that aligns with said at ieast one access opening {A2, A3).

12. The carton (200? of claim 1 , wherein sasd tubular structure is collapsible into a let form.

13. The carton (200) oi^' claim 12, wherein in said collapsed eonoslion, said Reel (150/152) ss folded such that one of said keel paneis (15O_: 152} is in Hat face contact with said at least one of said first and second panel portions (156, 153) and a! leas^ pahialiy obstructs said ai least one access opening (A2, A3) therein

14. The carton of claim 1 , wherein said firs? and second panel portions (156, 158} are substantially coplanar

16, The carton of claim 1 , further cornpnsing, an end closure structure (W) at ieast partlaiiy enclosing an end of sa;d tubular structure, and stabilizing flaps (170a, 1?2a) toidably connected to said first keel panel (150) and to said second Reel panel (152), said stabilizing flaps {170a. i?2a) being secured to said end closure structure to retain the keel (150/ 152) in an erected position where the keel is disposed generally perpendicularly to said first ^aIi

16. A carton (200), compnsing. a tubular structure comprising a first wall (218/220) formed at least sn part from a first panel portion {156} and a second panel portion (158). said first and second panel portions Having respective inner side edges (160, 162) that are adjacent \o one another, a κeel (150/152) disposed within said tubular structure, said keel (150/152) comprising a first keel panes (150) and a second keel panel (152} that are in flat face contact wirh and are detachabiy connected to one another, said Ur§i keel panel (150) being hmgediy connected to said snner side edge ( 160) of said first panel portion ( 156) and said second keei panel ( 152) being hingealy connected to said inner side edge {162} of said second panel portion (158).

17. The carton of claim 16, wherein at least one of said keel panels (15O₁ 152) comprises a detachable portion (GI , G2) that is seeded to ihe oiher of said keel panels (150, 152) to deiachθbly secure said keel panels (150, 152} to one another.

IS. A blank, comprising: a plurality of panels h^ngedly connected to adjacent ones thereof along transverse fold lines for forming a divisible tubular structure with an inwardly extending keel, comprising. a pair oi Inner panels for providing an inner layer of a composite vval and a pair of outer panels for providing an outer layer of said composite wa and a pair of keel panels hlngediy connected to one another for forming said keel: each of said pair of keel panels capable of being hlngediy connected to one of said inner panels,

19, The blank of claim 18, wherein said keel panels are further eierachabiy connected to one another along a first severance line and said outer panels are deiachaply connected to one another βlong a frangible line.

. > ϊ „

20 The blank of ciasrn 18, wherein at least one of said Keel oaπeis nciudes a detachable portion for cietacr>abfy securing the kθei panels to one ano her, said detachable portion being defined at least in part by a half cut extending no more than partiaϋy through the thickness of said at least one keel panel