WO2021111261A1

WO2021111261A1 - Blank for forming a package and a package

Info

Publication number: WO2021111261A1
Application number: PCT/IB2020/061188
Authority: WO
Inventors: Pär MAGNUSSON
Original assignee: Stora Enso Oyj
Priority date: 2019-12-03
Filing date: 2020-11-26
Publication date: 2021-06-10
Also published as: EP4069600A1; SE546121C2; SE1951378A1; EP4069600A4

Abstract

A blank for forming a package comprising a set of side wail panels (101, 102, 103, 104) and a set of top panels (201, 202, 203, 204), wherein a second and a fourth side wall panel (102, 104) each comprises a cut-out (214) configured to form a handle in the side wall panel (102, 104), wherein a respective second and fourth top panels (202, 204) each comprises a cut-out (212), wherein when the blank (100) is erected into a package (200), the second and fourth top panels (202, 204) are folded relative to the second and fourth side wall panels (102, 104) such that the cut-out (214) of the respective side wall panel (102, 104) and the cut-out (212) of the associated top panel (202, 204) overlap and together form a handle, wherein a third top panel (203) is configured to be folded such that it at least partly overlaps a first top panel (201), and wherein the third top panel (203) comprises two locking flaps (216), each locking flap (216) being configured to be folded into the cut-outs (214, 212) forming handles, and thereby putting the package (200) in a closed state.

Description

BLANK FOR FORMING A PACKAGE AND A PACKAGE

Field of the invention

The invention relates to a blank for forming a package. The blank is intended to form a package being especially, but not exclusively, suitable for carrying heavy loads. The invention also relates to such a package.

Backaround art

Packages formed of paperboard, cardboard or corrugated cardboard are used for protecting and facilitating transportation of a wide variety of goods. Packages made for transporting heavy products and goods are often made from corrugated cardboard or a thicker paperboard. The packages are typically produced by cutting out a blank from a flat sheet and typically also simultaneously or in direct connection therewith providing the blank with fold lines. Thereafter, the blank may be pre-glued and pre-folded into a flat-laid package before it is transported to the site where it is to be erected and filled with goods. Alternatively, the blank as such is transported to the site where it is to be erected and filled with goods.

It is often desirous that the packages are designed in such a way that several packages can be stacked upon each other in a stable way. It is further also often desirous that the packages are designed such that they can be erected without the use of glue. Packages made from cardboard are often beneficial since they do not take up much space before they are erected, such as during transport to the site of use.

It is often desirous to provide packages in a single piece and in a flat- laid, ready-to-erect state. It is often also desirous to provide a closing mechanism for the package such that the package can be locked in a closed state such as to facilitate stacking.

There exist attempts to address the above design criteria in connection to designing a package of cardboard material.

US5588585 discloses a carton blank from a one-piece blank including a floor and sidewalls, with comer posts at the comers of the carton. The package may be locked in a closed state by two top panels each comprising a locking flap for locking the two panels to the package via a cut-out of a side wall. However, the basic design makes it inefficient when it comes to handling of, and transportation of heavier goods. Moreover, it is difficult to fold and erect such a blank into an insert in a state ready to receive goods.

EP0567414 discloses a package for carrying heavy goods. The package comprises a set of wall panels configured to form a quadratical structure of the package and a top panel configured to form a lid for the package. The top panel comprises locking flaps configured to be folded relative to the wall panels such as to form a double wall adjacent to the lid when the package is in a closed state. Two wall panels comprise handles that are formed by partially cut-out holes. The handles comprise a fold line and are configured to be folded in an upward motion relative to the wall panel and overlay the locking flap of the top panel.

It may be noted that none of the prior art documents discloses a package which adequately addresses the set of design criteria that the package should make efficient use of the material, be easy to transport to the point of use, be easy to erect, and provide a stable and strong protective structure, and be able to carry heavy goods in a facilitated manner.

Summary of the invention

In view of that stated above, the object of the present invention is to provide a blank which makes efficient use of the material, which is easy to transport, and which is easy to erect into a package, and which provides a package which is mechanically stable and has a strong structure.

To achieve at least one of the above objects and also other objects that will be evident from the following description, there is according to the present invention provided a blank for forming a package, the blank comprising a set of side wall panels comprising a first, second, third and fourth side wall panel arranged consecutively one after another along a longitudinal direction and foldably connected to each other along fold lines extending in a transverse direction, a set of top panels comprising a first, second, third and fourth top panel, each top panel being foldably connected to an associated side wall panel, wherein the second and fourth side wall panels each comprises a cut- out configured to form a handle in the side wall panel, wherein the respective second and fourth top panels each comprises a cut-out, wherein, when the blank is erected into a package, the second and fourth top panels are folded relative to the second and fourth side wall panels such that the cut-out of the respective side wall panel and the cut-out of the associated top panel overlap and together form a handle, wherein the third top panel comprises two locking flaps, each locking flap being connected to a respective transversally extending side of the third top panel and being foldable relative to the third top panel along fold lines extending in the transverse direction, wherein each locking flap has a longitudinal extension from the third top panel past an extension of the fold line between the third side wall panel and the second side wall panel, respectively past an extension of the fold line between the third side wall panel and the fourth side wall panel, wherein when the blank is erected into a package, the package is configured to be put in a closed state by folding the first and third top panels such that the third top panel is configured to at least party overlap and be positioned above the first top panel, and by folding the locking flaps into the cut-outs forming the handle and thereby locking the package in a closed state, wherein a respective longitudinally extending side of the respective locking flap facing the third side wall panel is positioned at a distance from the associated side wall panel, where the distance is defined by a distance between a fold line between the third side wall panel and the third top panel and the longitudinally extending side of the locking flap facing the third side wall panel.

The third top panel is configured to be folded such that it positions a portion of the first top panel underneath it in the erected closed state, thereby forming an essentially flat top of the package. Thus, the package, when in the closed state, is provided with a flat top, such that the provided package may be easy to stack. By such a configuration of the third top panel, the risk of unintentional unfolding and opening of the package may be prevented during stacking thereof.

When the locking flaps are folded into the cut-outs of the respective second and fourth side wall panels, a smooth handle is formed that may prevent any tearing of the blank when the package is lifted.

With such a design, it is possible to provide a strong package that is easy to erect, and which is suitable for carrying heavy loads. Any unintentional tearing of the top of the package may be reduced due to the configuration of the top panels. Any unintentional unfolding of the top panels when handling the package may be reduced as a result of the locking panels being folded into the cut-outs of the side wall panels. Tearing of the handle structure and thereby also tearing of the blank during lifting or handling thereof may be reduced with the provided package. With the provided design, it is possible to provide a blank which is easy to transport between the time of use, and which is easy to erect into a package with a reduced risk of damaging the blank. Thereby, the blank and the package formed from the blank may be used a greater number of times compared to prior art designs. This is especially useful if the blank and package is used as a moving box.

Each locking flap may comprise an internal fold line having an extension in the transverse direction and being configured to, when the blank has been erected to the package, be folded inwards such that an outer part is configured to be folded into the cut-outs forming the handle and thereby locking the package in the closed state. By the provision of the internal fold line of the locking flap, erection of the package may be facilitated. By locking the outer part towards an inside of the package, any unintentional unfolding of the locking flaps may be prevented.

A first distance may be defined by the longitudinal extension of the locking flap past the extension of the fold line between the third side wall panel and the second side wall panel and the internal fold line of the locking flap, respectively the longitudinal extension of the locking flap past the extension of the fold line between the third side wall panel and the fourth side wall panel and the internal fold line of the locking flap.

A second distance may be defined by a distance between the cut-out in the second top panel and the fold line between the second side wall panel and the second top panel, respectively a distance between the cut-out of the fourth top panel and the fold line between the fourth side wall panel and the fourth top panel.

The first distance may correspond to, and may preferably be equal to, the second distance. By such a configuration, the internal fold line of the locking flap may become folded about an edge of the cut-out. Thereby, the handling of the package in the erected, and closed state, may be facilitated. Unintentional unfolding of the locking flaps and therewith the top panel may be avoided.

The distance between the fold line between the third side wall panel and the third top panel and the longitudinally extending side of the locking flap facing the third side wall panel may define a third distance.

A fourth distance may be defined by a distance between the cut-out of the second top panel and the extension of the fold line between the third side wall panel and the second side wall panel, respectively by a distance between the cut-out of the fourth top panel and the extension of the fold line between the third side wall panel and the fourth side wall panel.

The third distance may correspond to and may preferably be equal to the fourth distance. By such a configuration, when the package is about to be put in a closed state the locking flap may be snugly inserted alongside an edge, of the respective cut-out, being closest to the third top panel. The risk of unintentional unfolding of the locking flaps and therewith the top panel may thereby be reduced. Thereby, there is achieved a tight locking effect keeping the third top panel snugly in place. Moreover, the outer portion of the locking flap, preferably having a greater transversal extension than the other parts of the locking flap, may be only marginally larger than the other parts and still provide a distinct locking effect.

The blank may made of a paper-based material. Preferably the blank is made of a corrugated cardboard material. Paper-based material will provide a light weight package, yet suitable for carrying heavy loads. By the provision of a package as disclosed made of paper-based material, a mechanically stable package may be provided. The paper-based material, such as a corrugated cardboard material, may provide a blank that is easy to erect and easy to transport to the point of use. A blank of a paper-based material, such as a corrugated cardboard material, is typically environmentally friendly and can be recycled in a simple manner.

Each cut-out of the second and fourth side wall panels may have a shape corresponding to a shape of the associated cut-out of the respective second and fourth top panel. It is to be noted that by the shape of the cut-outs of the second and fourth side wall panels being corresponding to the respective cut-out of the second and fourth top panel, the width and/or height of the cut-outs may differ. By way of example, the cut-out of the respective second and fourth side wall panel may have a greater width than the cut-out of the respective second and fourth top panel. The sizes of the cut-outs may differ slightly, such that the locking flaps of the third top panel are inserted into the handles and locked in a desirous position. Thereby any unintentional unfolding of the locking flaps in the closed state may be prevented. It is to be noted that by the cut-outs having corresponding shapes but varying size, the locking flap may easily be inserted through the first cut-out and then lock relative to the second cut-out.

When cutting the blank, each locking flap may be cut from a geometrical rectangular extension of the respective second and fourth top panel. By such a configuration of the blank, the blank may be cut as a single piece blank. The amount of material needed for forming the package is reduced by the locking flaps essentially being formed by cuts of the respective second and fourth top panel. It is preferred that the locking flaps are cut such that no critical part of the respective second and fourth top panel is harmed. Thus, a package making efficient use of material may be provided while still providing mechanical stability and a strong structure.

The blank may further comprise: a first bottom panel foldably connected to the first side wall panel along a fold line extending in the longitudinal direction, a second bottom panel foldably connected to the third side wall panel along a fold line extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the second bottom panel is configured to be positioned beneath the first bottom panel when the blank has been erected into a package, and two opposing side wall portions, each being foldably connected to a respective transversally extending side of the second bottom panel, wherein the first bottom panel comprises two internal, inclined fold lines, wherein each internal, inclined fold line extends along a direction having a major component in the transverse direction, and wherein each internal, inclined fold line extends from a transversally extending side of the first bottom panel to a free, longitudinally extending side of the first bottom panel, wherein each side wall portion comprises an internal, inclined fold line extending in a direction having a major component in the longitudinal direction, each internal, inclined fold line extending from a longitudinally extending side of the side wall portion opposing the set of side wall panels to a respective free, transversally extending side of the side wall portion, and wherein the second bottom panel is configured such that, when the blank is erected into a package, the side wall portions are folded relative to the second bottom panel and form together with the respective second and fourth side wall panel two opposing double-walled side walls.

With such a design, it is possible to provide a strong package which is easy to erect, and which is suitable for carrying heavy loads. When erecting the package, the internal, inclined fold lines of the first bottom panel and of the two side wall portions allows for easy handling and reduces the risk that the bottom part being incorrectly folded or damaged. The internal, inclined fold lines create during the folding operation a space between the transversally extending side of the first bottom panel and the longitudinally extending side of each side wall portion, allowing them to fit close to each other in the erected state but with a reduced risk of them being damaged during folding. Since the transversally extending side of the first bottom panel and the longitudinally extending side of each side wall portion may fit close to each other in the erected state, the intended rectangularity of the package may be achieved with tight tolerances. Thereby, the locking effect provided by the locking flaps is further improved since they in turn may also fit with tight tolerances.

This configuration of the bottom parts makes it easier for the user to erect the package. Additionally, the bottom parts each originating at a respective one of two opposing side wall panels of the package and being folded one beneath the other allows for the bottom part to curve slightly when force is applied by the package being lifted with heavy load inside the package. This transfers some of the force from being applied to only the bottom part and its connection towards the sides solely as tearing forces, by transferring some of the force to the end walls of the package and by allowing the forces to be transmitted partly as pulling forces over the connection between the bottom parts and the side walls. This further increases the strength and decreases the risk of tearing of the bottom when force is being applied from heavy loads, which may happen if the bottom is designed such that the bottom is in one piece and no curvature of the bottom is possible, since the entire load then will be applied as tear forces at the connection between the bottom and the side walls. With the provided design, it is possible to provide a blank which is easy to transport between the time of use, and which is easy to erect into a package with a reduced risk of damaging the blank. Thereby, the blank and the package formed from the blank may be used a greater number of times compared to prior art designs. This is especially useful if the blank and package is used as a moving box.

At least one, and preferably each, of the internal, inclined fold lines of the first bottom panel may originate at a respective one of comers created by the fold line extending in the longitudinal direction connecting the first side wall panel to the first bottom panel and the respective one of the free transversally extending sides. This configuration allows each flap created between each internal, inclined fold line and each transversally extending side of the first bottom panel to extend over the entire transversally extending side, thereby providing the advantage of reduced risk of damage for the entire transversally extending side.

At least one, and preferably each, of the internal, inclined fold lines of each of the side wall portions may originate at a free, outer end of each of a respective one of fold lines between the second bottom panel and a respective one of the side wall portions. This configuration allows each flap created between the internal, inclined fold line and each longitudinally extending side of each side wall portion to extend over the respective entire longitudinally extending sides, thereby providing the advantage of reduced risk of damage for the entire longitudinally extending sides. It may be noted that during erection of the package, the internal, inclined fold line of each side wall portion meets the internal, inclined fold line of the respective side of the first bottom panel. This configuration is such that the erection of the package can be made without damaging the comers of the first bottom panel or the side wall panels.

The first bottom panel may be provided with a cut-out configured to form a handle. The cut-out preferably extends in the longitudinal direction.

The cut-out is preferably positioned across one of the internal, inclined fold lines of the first bottom panel. The cut-out is preferably positioned between a free corner of a free transversally extending side and a free longitudinally extending side and a centre point of the free longitudinally extending side.

The cut-out is preferably positioned closer to the free comer of the free transversally extending side and the free longitudinally extending side than to the centre point of the free longitudinally extending side. The provision of a cut-out configured to form a handle simplifies the folding and unfolding of the package for the user by providing the cut-out as a handle to lift the first bottom panel during folding and unfolding. The various preferred features concerning the longitudinal extension, the positioning across one of the internal fold lines, and the positioning relative to the free comer, may be provided separately, in various permutations, or altogether and aids in facilitating access to the handle.

It may further be noted that the first bottom panel may have chamfered corners. This allows for a tight overlap of the first and second bottom panels, when erected, without the comers of the first bottom panel being folded which could happen if the comers of the first bottom panel are perfectly lining the comer between the third side wall panel, the respective second and fourth side wall panel and the second bottom panel. The second bottom panel may be provided with a cut-out configured to form a handle. The cut-out preferably extends in the longitudinal direction.

The cut-out in the second bottom panel is preferably positioned between a fold line to the side wall portion and a centre point of the free longitudinally extending side of the second bottom panel. The cut-out is preferably positioned closer to the comer of the fold line to the side wall portion and the free longitudinally extending side of the bottom panel, than to the centre point of the free longitudinally extending side of the second bottom panel. It may be noted that the various preferred features may be provided separately, in various permutations, or altogether. This provision of a cut-out configured to form a handle simplifies the folding and unfolding of the package by providing the user with a handle to use for lifting the second bottom panel.

Each side wall portion may be separably connected to a respective one of the second and fourth side wall panel, preferably by a perforated separation line. The blank in this configuration will be comparably easy to keep flat and without extending parts. This allows for easy handling while transporting the blank before initial erection to form a package.

The inventive concept may in short be said to relate to a blank for forming a package comprising a set of side wall panels and a set of top panels, wherein a second and a fourth side wall panel each comprises a cutout configured to form a handle in the side wall panel, wherein a respective second and fourth top panel each comprises a cut-out, wherein when the blank is erected into a package the second and fourth top panels are folded relative to the second and fourth side wall panels such that the cut-out of the respective side wall panel and the cut-out of the associated top panel overlap and together form a handle, wherein a third top panel is configured to be folded such that it at least partly overlaps a first top panel, and wherein the third top panel comprises two locking flaps, each locking flap being configured to be folded into the cut-outs forming handles, and thereby putting the package in a closed state.

Generally, all terms used in the claims are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the technical field, unless explicitly defined otherwise herein. All references to "a/an/the" are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of said element, device, component, means, step, etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise. The steps of any method disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed, unless explicitly stated.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The above, as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the present invention, will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, with reference to the appended drawings, where the same reference numerals will be used for similar elements, wherein:

Figure 1 discloses a blank configured to form a package.

Figure 2 discloses a blank in an assembled but still flat-laid state.

Figure 3 discloses a package formed from the blank in Figures 1 and 2. Figure 4 discloses the package of Figure 3 with closed lid.

Description of Embodiments

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which currently preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness, and fully convey the scope of the invention to the skilled person.

With reference to Figures 1-2, a blank for forming a package is disclosed. It may be noted that in figures 1 -2, dashed lines typically represent fold lines and solid lines typically represents cut-lines where the material is cut and separated or perforation-lines where the material is perforated and intended to be separated.

The blank comprises a set of side wall panels; namely a first, a second, a third, and a fourth side wall panel 101 , 102, 103, 104 arranged in the blank 100 consecutively after each other along a longitudinal direction L and foldably connected to each other along fold lines extending in a transversal direction T. As shown in Figure 2, the blank 100 is configured to be folded at the fold line between the first side wall panel 101 and the second side wall panel 102 and at the fold line between the third side wall panel 103 and the fourth side wall panel 104 to be assembled into a flat-laid assembled state. A fifth wall panel 105 is provided at a transversally extending side of the fourth side wall panel 104 and is attached to the first side wall panel 101 or vice versa. It may be attached using glue, staples, or any other kind of attachment method commonly used for paper-based materials. In this assembled, but still flat-laid configuration, the blank 100 is prepared to be easy to transport and store before use. In the assembled flat laid-state of such an assembled blank, the blank is easy to erect at the point of use without requiring any adhesive.

The blank 100 comprises a set of top panels. The set of top panels comprises a first, second, third and a fourth top panel 201 , 202, 203, 204. Each top panel 201 , 202, 203, 204 is foldably connected to an associated side wall panel 101, 102, 103, 104.

The third top panel 203 comprises two locking flaps 216. Each locking flap 216 is connected to a respective transversally extending side of the third top panel 203 and is foldable relative to the third top panel 203 along fold lines extending in the transverse direction T. Each locking flap 216 has a longitudinal extension from the third top panel 203 past an extension of the fold line FL23 between the third side wall panel 103 and the second side wall panel 102, respectively past an extension of the fold line FL34 between the third side wall panel 103 and the fourth side wall panel 104.

The second and fourth side wall panels 102,104 each comprises a cutout 214 configured to form a handle in the side wall panel 102, 104. The respective second and fourth top panel 202, 204 each comprises a cut-out 212. The cut-outs 212 are preferably internal cut-outs in the sense that they are completely surrounded by remaining portions of the respective top panel 202, 204, the remaining portions forming a continuous piece of material around the cut-outs 212. When erecting the package, the second and fourth top panels 202, 204 are configured to be folded relative to the second and fourth side wall panels 102, 104 such that the cut-out 214 of the respective side wall panel 102, 104 and the cut-out 212 of the associated top panel 202, 204 overlap and together form a handle.

With reference to Figures 3-4, there is disclosed a package formed by erecting the blank 100. Figure 3 discloses the package during erection of the blank 100, and Fig 4 discloses the package 200 in the closed state. When the blank 100 is erected into a package 200, the package 200 is configured to be put in a closed state by folding the first and third top panels 201 , 203 such that the third top panel 203 is configured to at least party overlap and is positioned above the first top panel 201, and by folding the locking flaps 216 into the cut-outs 214, 212. The locking flaps 216 are folded inwards into the cut-outs, and then preferably also folded relative to the respective side wall panel 102, 104 in an upward motion. Thereby the locking flaps 216 form an upper, smooth part of the handle and also lock the package 200 in the closed state. The third top panel 203 partly overlaps the first top panel 201. It may be noted that the third top panel 203 only presents a single edge whereby an almost flat exterior of the top of the package 200 is formed when the package 200 is in the closed state. By such flat top of the package 200, the package is easily stackable, and there is a reduced risk of packages catching the flaps or panels of other packages during stacking and handling, which would increase the risk of unintentional opening of packages or unintentional damaging of packages or increase the risk of incorrect relative positioning when stacking the packages.

Each locking flap 216 may comprise an internal fold line FL216 having an extension in the transverse direction T. The internal fold line FL216 may provide the locking flap 216 with an outer part 216b. When the blank 100 has been erected into the package, the locking flap 216 is configured to be folded inwards such that the outer part 216b may be folded into the cut-outs 212,

214 forming the handle and thereby lock the package 200 in the closed state. The outer portion 216b preferably has an extension along the transverse direction T being greater than the rest of the locking flap 216, at least wider than the part of the locking flap 216 where the internal fold line FL216 is provided. The internal fold line FL216 is preferably formed of more than one parallel fold line to allow the part of the locking panel 216 being provided with the internal fold lines 216 to be folded into the cut-outs 212, 214 and to allow the outer part 216b to be folded upwardly alongside the inner side of the respective second and fourth top panel 202, 204.

When cutting the blank 100, each locking flap 216 may be cut from a geometrical rectangular extension of the respective second and fourth top panel 202, 204.

The cut-out 214 of the second and fourth side wall panels 102, 104 may each have a shape corresponding to the shape of the associated cut-out 212 of the respective second and fourth top panel 202, 204. The cut-outs 214 of the second and fourth side wall panels 102, 104 may be wider than the cutout 212 of the respective second and fourth top panel 202, 204. Hence, the outer part 216b of the locking flap can easily pass through the cut-out 214 of the respective second and fourth side wall panels 102, 104, and lock relative to the cut-out 212 of the respective second and fourth top panel 202, 204.

As is evident from Figures 1-2, the cut-outs 214 forming a handle of the side wall panels may be partially a cut-out comprising a fold line on a side facing the second respective fourth top panel 202, 204. By such a configuration, the partly cut-out 214 may be folded inwards when the package 200 is erected to form a mechanical locking mechanism between the respective second or fourth side wall panel 102, 104 and the respective second or fourth top panel 202, 204.

The longitudinal extension of the locking flap 216 past the extension of the fold line FL23 between the third side wall panel 103 and the second side wall panel 102 and the internal fold line FL216 of the locking flap 216, respectively the longitudinal extension of the locking flap 216 past the extension of the fold line FL34 between the third side wall panel 103 and the fourth side wall panel 104 and the internal fold line FL216 of the locking flap 216 may be defined as a first distance D1.

A distance between the cut-out 212 in the second top panel 202 and the fold line FL2 between the second side wall panel 102 and the second top panel 202, respectively a distance between the cut-out 212 of the fourth top panel 204 and the fold line FL4 between the fourth side wall panel 104 and the fourth top panel 204 may be defined as a second distance D2. The first distance D1 may correspond to the second distance D2. It is preferred that the first distance D1 is equal to the second distance D2. By such a design, the internal fold line FL216 of the locking flap 216 becomes folded about an edge of the cut-out 212 when erecting the package. By the first distance D1 being equal to the second distance D2, the locking mechanism of the locking flap 216 may be provided having a high mechanical stability.

A distance between the fold line FL3 between the third side wall panel 103 and the third top panel 203 and a longitudinally extending side of the locking flap 216 facing the third side wall panel 103 may define a third distance D3. The distance D3 between the fold line FL3 and the longitudinally extending side of the respective locking flap 216 allows the second and fourth top panels 202, 204 to, along the distance D3, have a complete width along the longitudinal direction L. This may be referred to as the second and fourth top panels 202, 204 being full-width panels; full-width as seen along the longitudinal direction L and with the full-width being available along the distance D3. The second and fourth top panels 202, 204 may be full-width panels along at least a portion of the distance D3. Preferably, the second and fourth top panels 202, 204 may be full-width panels along a major portion of the distance D3. Most preferably, the second and fourth top panels 202, 204 may be full-width panels along the entire distance D3.

Such a design provides a significant contribution to the mechanical stability of the package. When the blank is erected into a package, double- walled end walls are formed. The double-walled end walls are formed by the second and fourth side wall panels 102, 104 forming an outer layer and the second and fourth top panels 202, 204 being folded inwardly against the second and fourth side wall panels 102, 104 to form an inner layer. Since the provision of the distance D3 allows the second and fourth top panels 202, 204 to be full-width panels along parts of or along the entire distance D3, the second and fourth top panels 202, 204 will extend all the way from an inside surface of the first side wall panel 101 to an inside surface of the third side wall panel 103. The provision of such full-width panels 202, 204 being positioned inside the comers and spanning the complete distance between the first and third side wall panels 101 , 103 improves the mechanical strength. It aids in keeping the comers in 90 degrees angle and thereby aids in keeping the cross-section of the package in the intended rectangular shape. This is especially advantageous since the upper part of the package is otherwise prone to become non-rectangular if any goods are loaded such that it exerts an un-symmetrical load on the side walls. Such non-rectangularity would risk that the locking flaps 216 would not coincide with the cut-outs 212, 214.

Moreover, the construction with full-width top panels 202, 204 also increases the overall stiffness of the edges at the top of the package, which is beneficial as the edges represent the surface most responsive to the mechanical impact. Thus, the package is formed to be more resistant to the pressure. The package is, therefore, made robust, having stable and strong protective structure.

A distance between the cut-out 212 of the second top panel 202 and the extension of the fold line FL23 between the third side wall panel 103 and the second side wall panel 102, respectively a distance between the cut-out 212 of the fourth top panel 204 and the extension of the fold line FL34 between the third side wall panel 103 and the fourth side wall panel 104 may define a fourth distance D4.

The third distance D3 may correspond to the fourth distance D4. It is preferred that the third distance D3 is equal to the fourth distance D4. By such a configuration the locking tab 216 may be snugly inserted around an edge of the cut-outs 212 facing the third top panel 103 when the package 200 is about to be put in a closed state.

The blank 100 may be made of a paper-based material. Preferably the blank 100 is made of a corrugated cardboard material. Paper-based material will provide a light weight package, yet suitable for carrying heavy loads. By the provision of a package 200 as disclosed made of paper-based material, a mechanically stable package may be provided. The paper-based material, such as a corrugated cardboard material, may provide a blank 100 that is easy to erect and easy to transport to the point of use. A blank 100 of a paper-based material, such as a corrugated cardboard material, is typically environmentally friendly and can be recycled in a simple manner.

As is evident from Figs.1-2, the blank may comprise a first bottom panel 106 and a second bottom panel 108. Each bottom panel 106, 108 is foldably connected to the respective first side wall panel 101 and the third side wall panel 103 along fold lines extending in the longitudinal direction L.

The first bottom panel 106 comprises two internal, inclined fold lines 107a-b. The internal, inclined fold lines 107a-b extend along a direction having a major component in the transverse direction T. Further, each of the internal, inclined fold lines extend from a respective transversally extending side 106a, 106b of the first bottom panel 106 to a free, longitudinally extending side 106c of the first bottom panel 106. In a preferred embodiment, the internal, inclined fold lines originate at each of the comers created by the fold line FL16 extending in the longitudinal direction L connecting the first side wall panel 101 to the first bottom panel 106 and each of the free transversally extending sides 106a, 106b. Further, the free corners 106ac, 106bc of the free longitudinally extending side 106c of the first bottom panel 106 may be chamfered.

The first bottom panel 106 may comprise a cut-out 112a, configured to form a handle. The cut-out 112a preferably extends in the longitudinal direction L. The cut-out 112a may be positioned at a position across one of the internal, inclined fold lines 107b. The cut-out 112a may be positioned between the free comer 106ac of the free transversally extending side 106b and the free longitudinally extending side 106c and a centre point of the free longitudinally extending side 106c and is preferably positioned closer to the free comer 106ac of the free transversally extending side 106b and the free longitudinally extending side 106c than to the centre point of the free longitudinally extending side 106c.

Two opposing side wall portions 110a, 110b are each foldably connected to a respective transversally extending side of the second bottom panel 108. Each of the side wall portions 110a, 110b may be separate from or may be separably connected to the respective one of the second side wall panel 102 and fourth side wall panel 104, preferably by a perforated separation line. As shown in Figure 2, this configuration allows for the blank to be flat and facilitates securing that no parts extend from the blank 100 when the blank 100 is transported and before erection into a package 200. Further, each of the side wall portions 110a, 110b comprises an internal, inclined fold line 111a, 111b extending in a direction having a major component in the longitudinal direction L. Each of the internal, inclined fold lines 111a, 111b extends from a longitudinally extending side 110ac, 110bc of the side wall portion 110a, 110b opposing the set of side wall panels 102, 104 to a free, transversally extending side 110aa, 110bb of the side wall portion 110a, 110b. In a preferred embodiment, each of the internal, inclined fold lines

111a, 111 b of each of the side wall portion 110a, 110b originates at the free, outer end FL80a’, FL80b’ of each of the fold line FL80a, FL80b between the second bottom panel 108 and each side wall portion 110a, 110b.

The second bottom panel 108 may comprise a cut-out 112b configured to form a handle. The cut-out 112b preferably extends in the longitudinal direction L. The cut-out 112b may be positioned between a fold line FL80b to the side wall portion 110b and a centre point of a free longitudinally extending side 108c of the second bottom panel 108. The cut-out is preferably positioned closer to the fold line FL80b to the side wall portion 110b than to the centre point of the free longitudinally extending side 108c of the second bottom panel 108.

From Figure 1 , the locking flap 105 at the free transversally extending side of the fourth side wall panel 104 may be attached to the free transversally extending side of the first side wall panel 101. This may be accomplished by e.g. using glue or any other adhesive or by mechanical attachment such as by stapling. The result is a flat-laid intermediate state as shown in Figure 2.

Figure 3 shows the blank being erected to a package 200. When the blank 100 is erected so as to configure it into a package 200, the first side wall panel 101 becomes positioned opposite to the third side wall panel 103, and the second side wall panel 102 becomes positioned opposite to the fourth side wall panel 104 whereby the side wall panels 101 , 102, 103, 104 define the package volume. Using the cut-out 112a as a handle, the first bottom panel 106 is folded into the package volume relative to the first side wall panel 101. The side wall portions 110a, 110b are folded relative to the second bottom panel 108 and moved towards the volume of the package 200 by folding the second bottom panel 108 relative to the third side wall panel 103 using the cut-out 112b as a handle. The side wall portions 110a, 110b are folded relative to the second bottom panel 108 such that the side wall portions 110a, 110b becomes positioned parallel to the respective inside of the second side wall panel 102 and the fourth side wall panel 104. The first bottom panel 106 is folded back downwardly towards the second bottom panel 108, wherein each internal, inclined fold line 111 a, 111 b of the first bottom panel 106 are folded so as to form flaps created from folding pointing towards the inside of the first side wall panel 101 , thereby facilitating passage of the first bottom panel 106 between the side wall portions 110a, 110b extending alongside the insides of the second and fourth side walls 102, 104.

Folding the side wall portions 110a, 110b at their respective internal, inclined fold lines 107a, 107b such that the outer flaps created from folding are pointing towards the second side wall panel 102 and fourth side wall panel 104 facilitates folding the first bottom panel 106 down into the volume and further down to be placed on top of the second bottom panel 108.

It may be noted that the longitudinal extension of the side wall portions 110a, 110b is such that the free ends 110aa, 110bb essentially coextends with the fold lines between the first and fourth side wall panels 101 , 104 respectively between the first and second side wall panels 101 , 102. The bottom panels 106, 108 and the side wall portions 110a, 110b have free ends 106c, 108c, 110ac, 110bc extending at a transversal distance from the first, second, third and fourth side wall panels 101 , 102, 103, 104 essentially being equal to or marginally smaller than the longitudinal extension of the second and fourth side wall panels 102, 104 such that the bottom panels 106, 108 and the side wall portions 110a, 110b may be folded into the volume of the package 200 and still cover the bottom and form stable connections between the side wall panels 101 , 103. It is contemplated that there are numerous modifications of the embodiments described herein, which are still within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

The side wall portions 110a, 110b may for instance comprise a cut-out preferably extending in the transversal direction T. The cut-out may be placed centrally on the side wall portion as seen along the free transversally extending side of each side wall portion. The cut-out of the side wall portions 110a, 110b may be configured such that each coincide with the respective cut-out 214 of the second side wall panel 102 and fourth side wall panel 104. This configuration allows the bottom part to, in a sense, be locked to the side walls, thereby further increasing the strength of the package 200. The provision of such a cut-out is especially useful if the cut-out 214 is positioned fairly low on the respective side wall panel 102, 104 such that the longitudinal extension of the respective side wall portion 110a, 110b, as seen in a flat-laid state of the blank 100, is such that the side wall portions 110a, 110b will extend upwardly along the inside of the respective side wall 102, 104 to a height above the cut-outs 214 when the blank 100 is folded into a package 200. In the disclosed embodiment, the cut-outs 214 are provided fairly high compared to the longitudinal extension of the side wall portions 110a, 110b such that the side wall portions 110a, 110b will not reach the cut-outs 214 when the blank 100 is folded into a package 200.

The person skilled in the art realizes that the present invention by no means is limited to the preferred embodiments described above. On the contrary, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

Additionally, variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by the skilled person in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measured cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

1. A blank (100) for forming a package (200), the blank (100) comprising: a set of side wall panels comprising a first, second, third and fourth side wall panel (101 , 102, 103, 104) arranged consecutively one after another along a longitudinal direction (L) and foldably connected to each other along fold lines extending in a transverse direction (T), a set of top panels comprising a first, second, third and fourth top panel (201 , 202, 203, 204), each top panel (201 , 202, 203, 204) being foldably connected to an associated side wall panel (101 , 102, 103, 104), wherein the second and fourth side wall panels (102, 104) each comprises a cut-out (214) configured to form a handle in the side wall panel (102, 104), wherein the respective second and fourth top panels (202, 204) each comprises a cut-out (212), wherein, when the blank (100) is erected into a package (200), the second and fourth top panels (202, 204) are folded relative to the second and fourth side wall panels (102, 104) such that the cut-out (214) of the respective side wall panel (102, 104) and the cut-out (212) of the associated top panel (202, 204) overlap and together form a handle, wherein the third top panel (203) comprises two locking flaps (216), each locking flap (216) being connected to a respective transversally extending side of the third top panel (203) and being foldable relative to the third top panel (203) along fold lines extending in the transverse direction (T), wherein each locking flap (216) has a longitudinal extension from the third top panel (203) past an extension of the fold line (FL23) between the third side wall panel (103) and the second side wall panel (102), respectively past an extension of the fold line (FL34) between the third side wall panel (103) and the fourth side wall panel (104), wherein when the blank (100) is erected into a package (200), the package (200) is configured to be put in a closed state by folding the first and third top panels (201 , 203) such that the third top panel (203) is configured to at least party overlap and be positioned above the first top panel (201 ), and by folding the locking flaps (216) into the cut-outs (214, 212) forming the handle and thereby locking the package (200) in a closed state, characterized in that a respective longitudinally extending side of the respective locking flap (216) facing the third side wall panel (103) is positioned at a distance (D3) from the associated side wall panel (102, 104), where the distance (D3) is defined by a distance between a fold line (FL3) between the third side wall panel (103) and the third top panel (203) and the longitudinally extending side of the locking flap (216) facing the third side wall panel (103).

2. The blank (100) according to claim 1 , wherein each locking flap (216) comprises an internal fold line (FL216) having an extension in the transverse direction (T) and being configured to, when the blank (100) has been erected to the package (200), be folded inwards such that an outer part (216b) is configured to be folded into the cut-outs (214, 212) forming the handle and thereby locking the package (200) in the closed state.

3. The blank (100) according to claim 2, wherein a first distance (D1) is defined by the longitudinal extension of the locking flap (216) past the extension of the fold line (FL23) between the third side wall panel (103) and the second side wall panel (102) and the internal fold line (FL216) of the locking flap (216), respectively the longitudinal extension of the locking flap (216) past the extension of the fold line (FL34) between the third side wall panel (103) and the fourth side wall panel (104) and the internal fold line (FL216) of the locking flap (216), wherein a second distance (D2) is defined by a distance between the cut-out (212) in the second top panel (202) and the fold line (FL2) between the second side wall panel (102) and the second top panel (202), respectively a distance between the cut-out (212) of the fourth top panel (204) and the fold line (FL4) between the fourth side wall panel (104) and the fourth top panel (204), and wherein the first distance (D1 ) corresponds to, and is preferably equal to, the second distance (D2).

4. The blank (100) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the distance between the fold line (FL3) between the third side wall panel (103) and the third top panel (203) and the longitudinally extending side of the locking flap (216) facing the third side wall panel (103) defines a third distance, and wherein a fourth distance (D4) is defined by a distance between the cut-out (212) of the second top panel (202) and the extension of the fold line (FL23) between the third side wall panel (103) and the second side wall panel (102), respectively by a distance between the cut-out (212) of the fourth top panel (204) and the extension of the fold line (FL34) between the third side wall panel (103) and the fourth side wall panel (104), and wherein the third distance (D3) corresponds to, and is preferably equal to, the fourth distance (D4).

5. The blank (100) according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the blank is made of a paper-based material, preferably a corrugated cardboard material.

6. The blank (100) according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein each cut-out (214) of the second and fourth side wall panels (102, 104) each has a shape corresponding to a shape of the associated cut-out (212) of the respective second and fourth top panel (202, 204).

7. The blank (100) according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein when cutting the blank (100), each locking flap (216) is cut from a geometrical rectangular extension of the respective second and fourth top panel (202, 204).

8. The blank (100) according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the blank (100) further comprises: a first bottom panel (106) foldably connected to the first side wall panel (101) along a fold line extending in the longitudinal direction (L), a second bottom panel (108) foldably connected to the third side wall panel (103) along a fold line extending in the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the second bottom panel (108) is configured to be positioned beneath the first bottom panel (106) when the blank (100) has been erected into a package (200), and two opposing side wall portions (110a, 110b), each being foldably connected to a respective transversally extending side of the second bottom panel (108), wherein the first bottom panel (106) comprises two internal, inclined fold lines (107a, 107b), wherein each internal, inclined fold line (107a, 107b) extends along a direction having a major component in the transverse direction (T), and wherein each internal, inclined fold line (107a, 107b) extends from a transversally extending side (106a, 106b) of the first bottom panel (106) to a free, longitudinally extending side (106c) of the first bottom panel (106), wherein each side wall portion (110a, 110b) comprises an internal, inclined fold line (111a, 111b) extending in a direction having a major component in the longitudinal direction (L), each internal, inclined fold line (111a, 111b) extending from a longitudinally extending side (110ac, 110bc) of the side wall portion (110a, 110b) opposing the set of side wall panels (101- 104) to a respective free, transversally extending side (110aa, 110bb) of the respective side wall portion (110a, 110b), and wherein the second bottom panel (108) is configured such that, when the blank (100) is erected into a package (200), the side wall portions (110a, 110b) are folded relative to the second bottom panel (108) and form together with the respective second and fourth side wall panel (102, 104) two opposing double-walled side walls.

9. The blank (100) according to claim 8, wherein at least one, preferably each, of the internal, inclined fold lines (107a, 107b) of the first bottom panel (106) originates at a respective one of corners created by the fold line (FL16) extending in the longitudinal direction (L) connecting the first side wall panel (101) to the first bottom panel (106) and the respective one of the free transversally extending sides (106a, 106b).

10. The blank (100) according to any one of claims 8-9, wherein at least one, preferably each of the internal, inclined fold lines (111a, 111 b) of each of the side wall portions (110a, 110b) originates at a free, outer end (FL80a’, FL80b’) of a respective one of fold lines (FL80a, FL80b) between the second bottom panel (108) and a respective one of the side wall portions (110a, 110b).

11. The blank (100) according to any one of claims 8-10, wherein the first bottom panel (106) is provided with a cut-out (112a) configured to form a handle, the cut-out (112a) preferably extending in the longitudinal direction (L).

12. The blank (100) according to claim 11 , wherein the cut-out (112a) in the first bottom panel (106) is positioned across one of the internal, inclined fold lines (107b).

13. The blank (100) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the cut-out (112a) is positioned between a free comer (106ac) of a free transversally extending side (106b) and a free longitudinally extending side (106c) and a centre point of the free longitudinally extending side (106c), preferably closer to the free comer (106ac) than to the centre point of the free longitudinally extending side (106c).

14. The blank (100) according to any one of claims 8-13, wherein the second bottom panel (108) is provided with a cut-out (112b) configured to form a handle, the cut-out (112b) preferably extending in the longitudinal direction (L).

15. A package (200) formed by erecting the blank (100) of any one of claims 1-14 into a package (200).