CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of German Utility Model Application No.

202022104856.8, filed on August 29, 2022.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0002] The disclosure of German Utility Model Application No. 202022104856.8, which was filed on August 29, 2022, is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if presented herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to cartons/boxes for holding one or more products. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a carton with an inner construct at least partially received within an outer construct and with locking features for selectively limiting and/or resisting relative movement between the constructs of the carton.

[0004] Cartons/boxes with locking features can be used for a wide variety of different products, such as dishwashing agents, medicines, household cleaners, candles, cosmetics, tobacco, and other products that should be kept out of the hands of children, as they may put the products in their mouths, swallow them, or use them in other dangerous ways. In examples, one may want to keep certain products out of the reach of infants, toddlers, kindergarten children, and children of preschool age, i.e., up to about the age of six, for example.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] In general, one aspect of the disclosure is directed to a carton, the carton comprising an inner construct comprising a plurality of inner panels extending at least partially around a first interior of the inner construct. The inner construct comprises an inner locking tab foldably connected to at least one inner panel of the plurality of inner panels and an inner locking flap foldably connected to the at least one inner panel of the plurality of inner panels. An outer construct comprises a plurality of outer panels extending at least partially around a second interior of the outer construct. The inner construct is for being at least partially received in the second interior of the outer construct and positionable to a locked position wherein movement of the inner construct relative to the outer construct is restricted. The outer construct comprises an outer locking tab foldably connected to at least one outer panel of the plurality of outer panels, and the inner locking tab and the inner locking flap cooperate with the outer locking tab to limit movement between the inner construct and the outer construct at the locked position. An engagement feature extends in the at least one outer panel of the outer construct. The engagement feature comprises an engagement hole in the at least one outer panel. At least one of the inner locking tab and the inner locking flap of the inner construct are adjacent the engagement feature in the outer construct at the locked position so that the at least one of the inner locking tab and the inner locking is positioned for disengagement with the outer locking tab via the engagement hole for facilitating movement of the inner construct and the outer construct relative to one another from the locked position to an open position wherein the first interior of the inner construct is accessible. The inner locking flap is moveable relative to the at least one inner panel to create an audible locking sound upon positioning the inner construct to the locked position.

[0006] In another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to, in combination, a first blank and a second blank for cooperating to at least partially form a carton. The first blank comprises a plurality of inner panels, an inner locking tab foldably connected to at least one inner panel of the plurality of inner panels, and an inner locking flap foldably connected to the at least one inner panel of the plurality of inner panels. The first blank is for forming an inner construct. The second blank comprises a plurality of outer panels and an outer locking tab foldably connected to at least one outer panel of the plurality of outer panels. The second blank is for forming an outer construct for at least partially receiving the inner construct formed from the first blank when the carton is formed from the first blank and the second blank. The inner locking tab and the inner locking flap cooperate with the outer locking tab to limit movement between the inner construct formed from the first blank and the outer construct formed from the second blank in a locked position of the carton formed from the first blank and the second blank. An engagement feature extends in the at least one outer panel of the second blank. The engagement feature comprises an engagement hole in the at least one outer panel. The engagement feature is for accessing at least one of the inner locking tab and the inner locking flap for disengagement with the outer locking tab via the engagement hole for facilitating movement of the inner construct and the outer construct relative to one another from the locked position to an open position of the carton formed from the first blank and the second blank. The inner locking flap is moveable relative to the at least one inner panel to create an audible locking sound upon positioning the inner construct to locked position in the carton formed from the first blank and the second blank.

[0007] In another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a method of forming a carton. The method can include obtaining a first blank comprising a plurality of inner panels, an inner locking tab foldably connected to at least one inner panel of the plurality of inner panels, and an inner locking flap foldably connected to the at least one inner panel of the plurality of inner panels. The method comprises forming an inner construct from the first blank by folding the plurality of inner panels at least partially around a first interior of the inner construct. The method includes obtaining a second blank comprising a plurality of outer panels and an outer locking tab foldably connected to at least one outer panel of the plurality of outer panels, and an engagement feature extending in the at least one outer panel. The engagement feature comprising an engagement hole in the at least one outer panel. The method comprises forming an outer construct from the second blank by folding the plurality of outer panels at least partially around a second interior of the outer construct. The method comprises moving at least one of the inner construct and the outer construct relative to the other to assemble the carton with the inner construct at least partially received in the second interior of the outer construct and in a locked position, wherein the inner locking tab and the inner locking flap cooperate with the outer locking tab to limit movement between the inner construct and the outer construct at the locked position. At least one of the inner locking tab and the inner locking flap is accessible via the engagement hole for disengagement with the outer locking tab for facilitating movement of the inner construct and the outer construct relative to one another from the locked position to an open position. The moving the at least one of the inner construct and the outer construct relative to each other comprises the inner locking flap moving relative to the at least one inner panel to create an audible locking sound when the inner construct is moved to the locked position.

[0008] Those skilled in the art will appreciate the above stated advantages and other advantages and benefits of various additional embodiments reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the below-listed drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the disclosure.

[0010] Fig. 1 is a plan view of a first blank for forming an inner construct according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

[0011] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the first blank partially folded to form the inner construct.

[0012] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the partially formed inner construct.

[0013] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the inner construct.

[0014] Fig. 5 is a plan view of a second blank for forming an outer construct according to exemplaiy embodiments of the disclosure. [0015] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the inner construct and the outer construct arranged relative to one another for moving the outer construct onto the inner construct and/or after removing the inner construct from the outer construct according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

[0016] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the inner construct partially received in the outer construct as arranged showing the hidden features of the inner construct and the outer construct in broken lines according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

[0017] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the carton formed by assembling the inner construct and the outer construct showing the engaged locking tabs of the constructs in broken lines according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

[0018] Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numbers throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0019] The present disclosure generally relates to constructs, boxes, cartons, carriers, trays, or the like, and packages for holding one or more products or articles such as those that should be kept out of the hands of children (e.g., for safety reasons). The product or products can be cleaning products such as dishwashing agents, household cleaners, soaps, and the like; medicines; cosmetics; candles; tobacco; objects that may pose a choking hazard; any other suitable product or material; or combinations thereof.

[0020] Constructs according to the present disclosure can accommodate product or articles of any shape. In this specification, the terms “inner,” “interior,” “outer,” “exterior,” “lower,” “bottom,” “upper,” and “top” indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected and upright constructs and cartons. As described herein, constructs can be formed from blanks by being glued with multiple panels, portions, tabs, and/or flaps, which may be designated herein in terms relative to one another, e.g., “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., in sequential or nonsequential reference, without departing from the disclosure.

[0021] According to Fig. 1, a first blank 1 is used to form an inner part or inner construct 61 (Figs. 3- 8) with a first opening 65 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. The inner construct

61 can be a container used to hold one or more products (not shown). Fig. 5 illustrates a second blank 25 used to form an outer part or outer construct 60 (e.g., a cover 60) (Figs. 6-8) with a second opening

62 according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. In embodiments, the inner (interior) construct 61 and the outer (exterior) construct 60 cooperate to form a carton 68 (Fig. 8) with the outer construct 60 extending at least partially around the inner construct 61 and the inner construct being selectively movable within the outer construct between a closed/locked configuration or first position (Figs. 8) and an open configuration or second position (Fig. 6), as described in more detail below. In the illustrated embodiments, the inner construct 61 and the outer construct 60 can include locking features for cooperating to resist and/or limit movement of the inner construct 61 relative to the outer construct 60, as described in more detail below. Further, the inner construct 61 and/or the outer construct 60 can include audible features that indicate when the inner construct is in the closed/locked position of the carton 68, as described in more detail below. In exemplary embodiments, the blanks 1, 25 can be made of paperboard, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, or other suitable material.

[0022] As shown in Fig. 1, the first blank 1 has a longitudinal direction LI and a lateral direction L2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first blank 1 can have a bottom wall or panel 2 that is foldably connected at its edges to four first side walls or inner panels 3, 4, 5, 6 along respective fold lines 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4. For example, the bottom panel 2 can be foldably connected to the respective first inner side panel 3 and second inner side panel 5 along respective lateral fold lines 2.1, 2.3, and the bottom panel 2 can be foldably connected to the respective first inner end panel 4 and second inner end panel 6 along respective longitudinal fold lines 2.2, 2.4. As shown in Fig. 1, at least the bottom panel 2 and the inner end panels 4, 6 can be rectangular. Any of the bottom panel 2 and/or the inner panels 3, 4, 5, 6 could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiments, the inner side panel 3 can be foldably connected to first or inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2 at respective lateral fold lines 7.1, 7.2. Similarly, the inner side panel 5 can be foldably connected to first or inner locking tabs 10.1, 10.2 at respective lateral fold lines 8.1, 8.2. As shown in Fig. 1, each of the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2 can include a respective first/triangular portion 11.1, 11.2 and a respective second/rectangular portion 11.3, 11.4, and each of the inner locking tabs 10.1, 10.2 can include a respective first/triangular portion 12.1, 12.2 and a respective second/rectangular portion 12.3, 12.4. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portions 11.3, 11.4, of the locking tabs 9.1, 9.2 have locking edges 13.1, 13.2 spaced apart from the fold lines 7.1, 7.2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portions 12.3, 12.4 of the inner locking tabs 10.1, 10.2 have locking edges 14.1, 14.2 spaced apart from the fold lines 8.1, 8.2. The portions 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.4 of the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 could have alternative sizes and shapes as to the sizes and shaped shown and/or described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0024] As shown in Fig. 1, the first inner side panel 3 is foldably connected to an inner locking flap 19 at a lateral fold line 21 and the inner side panel 5 is foldably connected to an inner locking flap 20 at a lateral fold line 22. In one embodiment, the inner locking flap 19 is spaced apart from the adjacent inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2. and the inner locking flap 20 is spaced apart from the adjacent inner locking tabs 10.1, 10.2. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner locking flap 19 has a distal edge 19.1 that is spaced apart from the fold line 21 by a smaller distance than the locking edges 13.1, 13.2 are spaced apart from the respective fold lines 7.1, 7.2. As such, the locking flap 19 extends from the inner side panel 3 a smaller distance than the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2. Similarly, the inner locking flap 20 has a distal edge 20.1 that is spaced apart from the fold line 22 by a smaller distance than the locking edges 14.1, 14.2 are spaced apart from the respective fold lines 8.1, 8.2, and the inner locking flap 20 extends from the inner side panel 5 a smaller distance than the inner locking tabs 10.1, 10.2. The inner locking flaps 19, 20, could be otherwise shaped, arranged, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure.

[0025] As shown in Fig. 1, the first inner side panel 3 is foldably connected to respective inner dust flaps or inner side end flaps 15, 16 along respective longitudinal fold lines 3.1, 3.3. Similarly, the second inner side panel 5 is foldably connected to respective inner dust flaps or inner side end flaps 17, 18 along respective longitudinal fold lines 5.1, 5.3. In embodiments, the longitudinal fold lines 3.1, 3.3 and 5.1, 5.3 can extend along rectangular sections of the respective inner side panels 3, 5. Any of the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2, inner locking flaps 19, 20, the inner side end flaps 15, 16, 17, 18, and/or the inner side panels 3, 5 could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.

[0026] The blank 1 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.

[0027] In a first processing step for forming the inner construct 61 from the first blank 1, the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 can be folded against and secured (e.g., adhesively attached) to the outer sides of the respective inner side panels 3, 5 (Fig. 2). In exemplary embodiments, the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 can be folded and glued to the respective inner side panels 3, 5 (e.g., by a manufacturer of the packaging) and then stored and/or transported (e.g., to a packer) in a flat, glued blank configuration (not shown), such as in stacks with other similar or identical blanks.

[0028] As shown in Figs. 3 an 4, the erected inner construct 61 can be formed from the flat, glued blank 1 (e.g., by a folder-gluer system, a packer, etc.) by folding the inner side panels 3, 5 along the lateral fold lines 2.1, 2.3 to extend upwardly from the bottom panel 2, folding the inner end flaps 15, 18 and 16, 17, along the respective longitudinal fold lines 3.1, 5.3 and 3.3, 5.1 over the respective ends of the inner construct 61, and folding the inner end panels 6, 4 along the respective longitudinal fold lines 2.4, 2.2 over the respective ends of the inner construct 61. In the illustrated embodiments, the inner side end flaps 15, 16, 17, 18 can be folded to extend between the inner side panels 3, 5, perpendicular to the inner side panels 3, 5. In embodiments, the first inner end panel 4 can overlap and can be secured (e.g., adhered) to the inner side end flaps 16, 17 to form a first inner end wall, and the second inner end panel 6 can overlap and can be secured (e.g., adhered) to the inner side end flaps 15, 18 to form a second inner end wall. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom panel 2, the inner panels 3, 4, 5, 6, and the inner end flaps 15, 16, 17, 18 can extend at least partially around a first interior of the inner construct 61 for receiving items in the inner construct 61. In the illustrated embodiments, the erected inner construct 61 can have a first or inner opening 65 defined between the inner panels 3, 4, 5, 6 in relation to the bottom panel 2 (e.g., for inserting products into and removing products from the inner construct 17). As shown in Fig. 4, the folded inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1,

10.2 have the locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 spaced downward from the respective top edges of the respective inner side panels 3, 5. In the illustrated embodiments, the locking edges 13.1, 13.2,

14.1, 14.2 can face away from the inner opening 65 and toward the bottom panel 2 and can be spaced apart from the inner opening 65 and the bottom panel 2. As shown in Fig. 3, the inner locking flaps 19, 20 can be downwardly folded at respective fold lines 21, 22 to be adjacent a respective inner side panel 3, 5. In one embodiment, the inner locking flaps 19, 20 are free from attachment to the outer surface of the inner side panels so that the inner locking flaps are free to move relative to the inner side panels. The inner locking flap 19 is adjacent and spaced apart from each of the inner locking tabs

9.1, 9.2 and the inner locking flap 20 is adjacent and spaced apart from each of the inner locking tabs

10.1, 10.2. As shown in Fig. 4, the distal edges 19.1, 20.1 of the locking flaps 19, 20 are closer to the respective top edges of the respective inner side panels 3, 5 that the locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1,

14.2 of the folded and attached inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2.

[0029] The inner construct 61 could be otherwise formed without departing from the disclosure.

[0030] As shown in Fig. 5, the second blank 25 for the outer part/construct 60 can have a longitudinal direction LI and a lateral direction L2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second blank 25 can include a top wall or panel 26 that is foldably connected at its edges to four second side walls or outer panels 27, 28, 29, 30 along respective fold lines 26.1, 26.2, 26.3, 26.4. For example, the top panel 26 can be foldably connected to the respective first outer side panel 27 and second outer side panel 29 along respective lateral fold lines 26.1, 26.3, and the top panel 26 can be foldably connected to the respective first outer end panel 28 and second outer end panel 30 along respective longitudinal fold lines 26.2, 26.4. In embodiments, each of the top wall 26 and the outer panels 27, 28, 29, 30 can be rectangular. Any of the top panel 26 and/or the outer panels 27, 28, 29, 30 could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.

[0031] In the illustrated embodiments, the first outer side panel 27 can be foldably connected to respective outer dust flaps or outer side end flaps 46, 47 along respective longitudinal fold lines 27.1,

27.2, Similarly, the second outer side panel 29 can be foldably connected to respective outer dust flaps or outer side end flaps 48, 49 along respective longitudinal fold lines 29.1, 29.2. Any of the outer side end flaps 46, 47, 48, 49 and/or the outer side panels 27, 29 could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.

[0032] As shown in Fig. 5, the outer side panels 27, 29 can be foldably connected to respective second or outer locking tabs 35, 36 along respective lateral fold lines 31, 32 at opposing edges of the outer side panels 27, 29. In the illustrated embodiments, each of the outer locking tabs 35, 36 can include a respective proximal section 35.1, 36.1 (e.g., an outer or second proximal section) and a respective distal section 43, 44 (e.g., an outer or second distal section). In embodiments, the proximal sections 35.1, 36.1 are foldably connected (e.g., directly foldably connected) to the respective outer side panels 27, 29 along the respective lateral fold lines 31, 32 and are foldably connected to the respective distal sections 43, 44 along respective lateral fold lines 41, 42, which are opposite to the respective lateral fold lines 31, 32. In exemplary embodiments, each of the proximal sections 35.1, 36.1 can have two portions, wherein a respective first portion 33, 34 adjoins a respective lateral fold line 31, 32 and can be rectangular (e.g., can be defined by Ofree edges extending in the longitudinal direction LI). In embodiments, the second portions 39, 40 adjoin the respective lateral fold lines 41, 42 and are trapezoidal (e.g., can be defined by free edges that are oblique), wherein the respective second portions 39, 40 widen toward the respective first portions 33, 34. In exemplary embodiments, the distal sections 43, 44 can be rectangular and can be foldably connected to the short edges of the proximal sections 35.1, 36.1 along the lateral fold lines 41, 42. Alternatively, the sections 35.1, 43, 36.1, 44 could have any suitable shape.

[0033] In the illustrated embodiments, the second blank 25 can include engagement devices or features 50, 51 extending in the respective outer side panels 27, 29. As shown in Fig. 5, the engagement devices 50, 51 can be positioned closer to the top panel 26 than to the respective outer locking tabs 35, 36 and can have an oval shape. In embodiments, the engagement devices 50, 51 can include respective weakening lines 52, 53 (e.g., cut or tear lines) that at least partially define respective engagement covers or cover panels 54, 55. In exemplary embodiments, the weakening lines 52, 53 can be formed by mutually offset scribe lines in the outer surfaces and inner surfaces of the outer side panels 27, 29, tear lines, cut lines, or any suitable lines of weakening. As shown in Fig. 5, the engagement devices 50, 51 can include respective access openings 56, 57 (e.g., having a lens shape) extending along an edge of the respective weakening lines 52, 53 (e.g., proximate to the top panel 26). Alternatively, the access openings 56, 57 could be positioned along any portion of the respective cover panels 54, 55 or could be omitted. In embodiments, the covers 54, 55 can be removed by tearing along the weakening lines 52, 53 to form respective engagement holes 51.1, 51.2 in the respective outer side panels 27, 29. In some embodiments, the engagement devices 50, 51 can include fold lines (not shown), wherein the respective weakening lines 52, 53 extend from the ends of the respective fold lines, so that the covers 54, 55 are partially removed from the respective outer panels 27, 29 along the respective weakening lines 52, 53 and folded outwardly along the respective fold lines (not shown). Alternatively, the cover panels 54, 55 could be removed from the blank 25 exposing the engagement openings 50.1, 51.1 prior to forming the outer construct 60 from the second blank, or the cover panels 54, 55 can be eliminated and not included in the blank 25.

[0034] As shown in Fig. 5, the second blank 25 further can include engagement openings 58, 59 (e.g., in the shape of an oval). In embodiments, the opening 58 can extend in the first outer side panel 27 and the proximal portion 35.1 of the first outer locking tab 35 (e.g., with half in the outer side panel 27 and half in the proximal portion 35.1 arranged symmetrically with respect to the lateral fold line 31). Further, the engagement opening 59 extends in the second outer side panel 29 and the proximal portion 36.1 of the second outer locking tab 36 (e.g., with half in the outer side panel 29 and half in the proximal portion 36.1 arranged symmetrically with respect to the lateral fold line 32). Any of the engagement features 50, 51, 58, 59 could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure. For example, the engagement features could have any suitable shape. In another example, the covers 54, 55 could be omitted so that the engagement features 50, 51 are openings 50.1, 51.1 in the outer side panels 27, 29. Further, at least partially removable panels (not shown) (e.g., similar to the cover panels 54, 55) can be included in the blank 25 and can be removed by tearing along weakening lines (not shown) (e.g., similar to the weakening lines 52, 53) to form the engagement openings 58, 59.

[0035] The blank 25 could be otherwise shaped, arranged, and/or configured without departing from the disclosure.

[0036] In a first processing step for forming the outer construct 60 (Fig. 6) from the second blank 25, the distal sections 43, 44 of the outer locking tabs 35, 36 can be folded against and secured (e.g., adhesively bonded) to the inner sides of the respective proximal sections 35.1, 36.1 of the outer locking tabs 35, 36. Further, the outer proximal sections 35.1, 36.1 can be folded against the inner sides of the respective outer side panels 27, 29 and the distal sections 43, 44 can be secured (e.g., adhesively bonded) to the inner sides of the outer side panels 27, 29. Accordingly, the distal sections 43, 44 can be secured between the respective proximal portions 35.1, 36.1 and the respective outer side panels 27, 29. Alternatively, the proximal portions 33.1, 34.1 can be disposed between the respective outer side panels 27, 29 and the respective distal sections 43, 44 and secured to the outer side panels 27, 29. In the illustrated embodiments, the folded outer locking tabs 35, 36 can form second or outer locking edges 45.1, 45.2 along the respective lateral fold lines 41, 42 and positioned between the engagement devices 50, 51 and the respective lateral fold lines 31, 32 (Figs. 6-8). As shown in Figs. 6-8, the engagement openings 58, 59 are formed into respective engagement recesses or cutouts in the outer construct 60 when the outer locking tabs 35, 36 are folded against the inner sides of the outer side panels 27, 29. In embodiments, the engagement recesses 58, 59 can have the shape of half an oval and can extend along the lower edges of the outer side panels 27, 29. In exemplary embodiments, the outer locking tabs 35, 36 can be folded and glued to the respective outer side panels 27, 29 (e.g., by a packaging manufacturer) and then stored and/or transported (e.g., to a packer) in a flat, glued blank configuration (not shown), such as in stacks with other similar or identical blanks and/or with the first blanks 1.

[0037] As shown in Figs. 6, the erected outer construct 61 can be formed from the flat, glued blank 25 (e.g., by a folder-gluer system, a packer, etc.) by folding the outer side panels 27, 29 along the lateral fold lines 26.1, 26.3 to extend downwardly from the top panel 26, folding the outer end flaps 46, 49 and 47, 48 along the respective longitudinal fold lines 27.1, 29.1 and 27.2, 29.1 over the respective ends of the outer construct 61 , and folding the outer end panels 30, 28 along the respective longitudinal fold lines 26.4, 26.2 over the respective ends of the outer construct 61. In the illustrated embodiments, the outer side end flaps 46, 47, 48, 49 can be folded to extend between the outer side panels 27, 29 and perpendicular to the outer side panels 27, 29. In embodiments, the first outer end panel 28 can overlap and can be secured (e.g., adhered) to the outer side end flaps 47, 48 to form a first outer end wall, and the second outer end panel 30 can overlap and can be secured (e.g., adhered) to the outer side end flaps 46, 49 to form a second outer end wall. As shown in Figs. 6-8, the top panel 26, the outer panels 27, 28, 29, 30, and the outer end flaps 46, 47, 48, 49 can extend at least partially around a second interior of the outer construct 61, wherein the inner construct 60 is at least partially received in the second interior of the outer construct 61 when the carton 68 is in its closed configuration. In the illustrated embodiments, erected outer construct 61 can have a second or outer opening 62, and the inner construct 60 can be movable into and out of the second interior of the outer construct 61 through the second opening when the locking tabs are disengaged from one another as described in more detail below. As shown in Figs. 6-8, the second locking edges 45.1, 45.2 can face away from the outer opening 62 and toward the top panel 26 and can be spaced apart from the outer opening 62 and the top panel 26. The outer construct 61 could be otherwise formed without departing from the disclosure.

[0038] Fig. 6 shows the constructs 60, 61 in a separated or open configuration (e.g., so that the first opening 65 of the inner construct 61 is accessible for loading and/or removing items from the inner construct 61). In the illustrated embodiments, the second opening 62 of the outer construct 49 is aligned with the first opening 65 of the inner construct 61 in preparation for assembling the carton 68 in its closed configuration (Figs. 7-8). In embodiments, Figs. 6-8 show the internal or otherwise hidden aspects of the constructs 60, 61 in broken lines. When the outer construct 60 is moved onto the inner construct 61 to assemble the carton 68 in its closed configuration, the second locking edges 45.1, 45.2 of the outer construct 60 move past the first locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 of the inner construct so that the second locking edges 45.1, 45.2 are arranged below the first locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 (Fig. 8). As shown in Figs. 8, when the carton 68 is in its closed/locked configuration, the inner locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 face away from the top panel 26 of the outer construct 60 and are spaced apart from the top panel 26 and the outer locking edges 45.1, 45.2 face away from the bottom panel 2 of the inner construct 61 and are spaced apart from the bottom panel 27. In embodiments, the carton 68 could be assembled by moving the outer construct 60 onto the inner construct 61, moving the inner construct 61 into the outer construct 60, or moving both constructs 60, 61 together. In the present disclosure, Figs. 6-8 illustrate the engagement and disengagement of the locking features on one side of the carton 68 (e.g., the side corresponding to inner side panel 5 and outer side panel 29), with the locking features including the outer locking tab 36, outer locking edge 45.1, engagement hole 51.1, inner locking tabs 10.1, 10.2, inner locking flap 20, inner locking edges 14.1, 14.2, and distal edge 20.1, some of which may be shown in dashed lines in one or more views. The locking features on the opposite side of the carton 68 (e.g., the side corresponding to the inner side panel 3 and outer side panel 27) are not shown in detail in Figs. 6-8, but the opposite side locking features can include outer locking tab 35, outer locking edge 45.2, engagement hole 50.1, inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, inner locking flap 19, inner locking edges 13.1,

13.2, and distal edge 19.1. The opposite side locking features not shown can be identical to the locking features shown in Figs. 6-8 and can operate in the same manner described herein. Alternatively, the opposite side locking features could be otherwise configured without departing from the disclosure. Further, the locking features on both sides of the carton 68 can be engage and/or disengaged in a similar manner as described herein, with the audible locking sound being created by the inner locking flaps 19, 20 on both sides of the carton 68 without departing from the disclosure.

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the inner locking flaps 19, 20 are moveable relative to the respective inner side panels 3, 5 of the inner construct 61 to create an audible sound upon positioning the inner construct 61 to the locked position of the carton 68 wherein the inner construct is received in the outer construct 60. The locking flaps 19, 20 are spaced apart from respective adjacent locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 that are attached to the respective inner side panels 3, 5. As shown in Figs. 7 and 8, when the inner construct 61 is received in the outer construct 60, the inner locking flaps 19, 20 are pressed inward by the respective outer locking tabs 35, 36 as the inner construct is received in the outer construct. As the inner construct 61 is further inserted into the outer construct 60, the distal edges 19.1, 20.1 of the inner locking flaps 19, 20 pass the second outer locking edges 45.1, 45.2 which causes the inner locking flaps 19, 20 to press against and contact the outer side panels 27, 29 of the outer construct 60 as the inner construct is fully inserted into the outer construct. The foldable connection of the inner locking flaps 19, 20 at the fold lines 21 , 22 biases the inner locking flaps 19, 20 outwardly relative to the inner side panels 3, 5. The bias of the inner locking flaps 19, 20 causes the contact with the outer side panels 27, 29 and the resulting audible “clicking” sound that results and indicates that the carton 68 has been positioned to the locked position with the locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 of the locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 and the distal edges 19.1, 19.2 of the inner locking flaps 19, 20 being positioned above the outer locking edges 45.1, 45.2 of the outer locking tabs 35, 36. The inner locking flaps 19, 20 snap outward as the inner construct 61 is fully inserted into the outer construct 60 contacting the outer side walls 27, 29 and causing the audible sound that indicates the carton 68 is locked.

[0040] In addition, when the outer construct 60 and the inner construct 61 are pushed together, the inner locking flaps 19, 20 produces a clearly perceptible sound which clearly signals to a user that the carton 68 is locked. The sound can be referred to in this application as a locking sound and can be a clicking sound or a tapping sound. The locking sound is caused by the movement of the inner locking flaps 19, 20 against the inner surface of the outer side panels when the inner construct 61 is received in the outer construct 60. As the inner locking flaps 19, 20 no longer contact the outer locking tabs 35, 36, there is a gap between the inner locking flap 19, 20 and a respective outer side wall 27, 29. The biasing force of each of the inner locking flaps 19, 20 causes the inner locking flaps to move away from the inner side panels 3, 5 and move into the gap between the inner locking flaps 19, 20 and the outer side walls 27, 29 and contact the outer side walls thus generating the audible locking sound.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiments, the carton 68 can be locked in its closed configuration (e.g., due to the position of the second locking edges 45.1, 45.2 below the first locking edges 13.1, 13.2,

14.1, 14.2). For example, the second locking edges 45.1, 45.2 can face the first locking edges 13.1,

13.2, 14.1, 14.2 and so that attempting to move the constructs 60, 61 relative to one another can cause the first locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 and the respective outer locking edges 45.1, 45.2 to engage (e.g., contact, abut, interact, etc.). In embodiments, the abutment of the first locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 against the respective second locking edges 45.1, 45.2 can limit or prevent relative movement between the constructs 60, 61 to limit or prevent undesired extraction of the inner construct 61 from the opening 62 of the outer construct 60. Accordingly, in embodiments, the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 can engage the respective outer locking tabs 35, 36 (e.g., along the respective locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 and 45.1, 45.2) so that the locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 cooperate to limit movement of the inner construct 61 relative to the outer construct 60. Furthermore, the distal edges 19.1, 20.1 of the inner locking flaps 19, 20 also interfere/contact the second locking edges 45.1 to prevent movement of the inner construct 61 relative to the outer construct 60 in the locked position of the carton 68. The carton 55 could be otherwise formed and/or erected without departing from the disclosure.

[0042] In exemplary embodiments, the carton 68 can be manipulated to overcome the locking engagement of the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 and inner locking flaps 19, 20 with the outer locking tabs 35, 36 so that the inner construct 61 can be moved from the first (e.g., closed or locked) position (e.g., wherein the inner construct 61 is partially or fully contained within the outer construct 60 with the first opening 65 covered by the outer construct 60) to the second (e.g., open) position (e.g., wherein the inner construct 61 is removed from the outer construct 60 through the opening 62 so that the first opening 65 is accessible). For example, the covers 54, 55 of the engagement devices 50, 51 are separated from the respective outer side panels 27, 29 along the respective weakening lines 52, 53 (e.g., by grasping the covers 54, 55 at the access openings 56, 57). In embodiments, the removal of the covers 54, 55 can provide a first opening protection for the carton 68. In the illustrated embodiments, the removal of the covers 54, 55 can form engagement holes 51.1, 51.2 (Fig. 6) in the respective outer side panels 27, 29 so that the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.3 and the inner locking flaps 19, 20 of the inner construct 61 are accessible through the openings formed by the respective engagement devices 50, 51 in the outer construct 60. In the illustrated embodiments, a user can grip the engagement holes 50.1, 51.1 formed by the engagement devices 50, 51 (e.g., with the thumb and index finger of one hand) and press the inner side panels 3, 5, the inner locking tabs 9.1,

9.2, 10.1, 10.2, and/or the inner locking flaps 19, 20 inwardly, causing the first locking edges 13.1,

13.2, 14.1, 14.2 and/or the distal edges 19.1, 20.1 to move inwardly and away (out of alignment with) from the second locking edges 45.1, 45.2. When the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 and the inner locking flaps 19, 20 of the inner construct 61 are pressed inwardly in this way, the second locking edges 45.1, 45.2 of the outer construct 60 are no longer blocked by the first locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 and/or the distal edges 19.1, 19.2 of the inner construct 17. In one embodiment, a central portion of the inner side panels 3, 5 can be pressed inwardly via the engagement holes 50.1,

51.1 a sufficient amount so as to cause the first locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 and the distal edges 19.1, 19.2 to be clear of the second locking edges 45.1, 45.2 and the inner construct 61 is free to move relative to the outer construct 60.

[0043] While pressing the inner side panels 3, 5 inwardly and engaging the inner locking tabs 9.1,

9.2, 10.1, 10.2 and the inner locking flaps 19, 20 via the openings formed by the engagement devices 50, 51, the user can grip the inner construct 61 via the engagement recesses 58, 59 in the outer construct 60 (e.g., with the thumb and index finger of the other hand). The user can pull the constructs 60, 61 apart with both hands while pressing inwardly on the side panels 3, 5 via the openings formed in the outer construct 60 by the engagement devices 50, 51 causing the inner locking flaps 19, 20 and the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 to disengage with the locking edges 45.1,

45.2 and by pulling on the inner construct 61 via the engagement recesses 58, 59 in the outer construct 60. In embodiments, it is difficult or impossible for a child to carry out the unlocking and opening operation (e.g., due to limitations in hand size and/or dexterity). [0044] In the illustrated embodiments, once the constructs 60, 61 are separated (e.g., similar as shown in Fig. 6), the opening 65 of the inner construct 61 is accessible for removing or adding items. The carton 68 could be reclosed and/or reopened according to the assembling and unlocking/separating operations as described above. In embodiments, the reclosed carton 68 is again protected against unwanted opening (e.g., by children) by the locking engagement of the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 with the respective outer locking tabs 35, 36 once the inner construct 61 is fully inserted into the outer construct 60. Upon reclosing the carton 68, the audible locking sound is generated by the inner locking flaps 19, 20 in the same manner as described above for the initial closing and locking of the carton 68.

[0045] In exemplary embodiments, the shortest distance of the engagement features 50, 51 and/or the engagement recesses 58, 59 from each other along the outer sides of the carton 68 in its closed configuration is dimensioned such that it is difficult or impossible for a child (e.g., with an age of up to three years, of up to four years, of up to five years, of up to six years, etc.) to unlock the carton 68, and it is difficult or impossible to pull the outer construct 60 and inner construct 61 apart when in the locked configuration. In embodiments, this dimensioning is based on average body measurements of a child, regardless of gender, in the respective age group, in the EU or in North America, depending on the region for which the everted box is intended. I n examples, the distance between the outer sides of the second side walls can be about 50 to about 120 mm, about 70 to about 100 mm, about 60 to about 90 mm, about 80 to about 90 mm, or about 70 to about 80 mm. This can help ensure that a child's hands cannot engage in all the engagement holes simultaneously in order to unlock the folding carton, while an adult (e.g., who may have larger hands) is able to reach the locking features to unlock and open the carton 68.

[0046] In the carton 68 according to the present disclosure, the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 and the inner locking flaps 19, 20 and the outer locking tabs 35, 36 form an interlock when the inner construct 61 is moved into the outer construct 60. This is because the inner locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 and distal edges 19.1, 19.2 can bear against the outer locking edges 45.1, 45.2 so that they prevent the inner construct 61 from being pulled out of the outer construct 60. Pulling the inner construct 61 out of the outer construct 60 can require, for example, that the interlock between the outer part and the inner part be released. To do this, the user can use the thumb and index finger of one hand to engage the engagement openings of the access features 50, 51 and compress the inner side panels 3, 5 inwardly and engaging the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 and the inner locking flaps 19, 20 via the openings formed by the engagement devices 50, 51, so that the outer locking edges 45.1, 45.2 no longer block the path of the inner locking edges 13.1, 13.2, 14.1, 14.2 and distal edges 19.1, 20.1. With the thumb and index finger of the other hand, the user can grip a portion of the inner construct 61 (e.g., along or adjacent the bottom panel 2) through the second engagement openings/recesses 58, 59 and pull the inner construct 61 and outer construct 60 apart. In doing so, the inner locking flaps 19, 20 and the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 slide past the user's thumb and index finger that engage the engagement apertures of the access features 50, 51 and compress the inner locking flaps 19, 20 and the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 slightly. Unlocking by a child may be prevented or made difficult by sizing the carton 68 so that the child, due to the comparatively small size of the child’s hands, is not able to engage in the engagement openings of the access features 50, 51 in the manner described. Unlocking can require, for example, a certain understanding of the function of the latch, which is usually not yet present in a child up to the age of six, for example. As a result, a child is prevented from unlocking the carton 68 according to the disclosure and is protected from the associated dangers. In addition, the carton 68 is protected against unintentional opening, which can occur with an everting carton that does not include the locking features, for example, if it is lifted at the outer construct without supporting the inner construct so that the inner construct slips out of the outer construct in the absence of the locking features.

[0047] In exemplary embodiments, the carton 68 may have tolerances in its formation, for example, when the constructs 60, 61 are formed from the flat, glued blanks 1, 25 by a packager. These tolerances may lead to small variations in the relative sizes of the constructs 60, 61. However, the two layers of thickness of the inner locking tabs 9.1, 9.2, 10.1, 10.2 and of the outer locking tabs 45.1, 45.2 (e.g., where their respective proximal and distal portions are in overlapping relationships) can help compensate for such tolerances and variations that can occur during the production of the blanks and the erection and bonding of the inner construct and/or the outer construct. This can be advantageous for secure locking of the carton despite the tolerances.

[0048] The blanks according to any of the embodiments of the present disclosure can be, for example, formed from coated paperboard and similar materials. For example, the interior and/or exterior sides of the blank can be coated with a clay coating. The clay coating may then be printed over with product, advertising, price coding, and other information or images. The blank may then be coated with a varnish to protect any information printed on the blank. The blank may also be coated with, for example, a moisture barrier layer, on either or both sides of the blank. In accordance with the above-described embodiments, the blank may be constructed of paperboard of a caliper such that it is heavier and more rigid than ordinary paper. The blank can also be constructed of other materials, such as cardboard, hard paper, or any other material having properties suitable for enabling the carton to function at least generally as described herein. The blank can also be laminated or coated with one or more sheet-like materials at selected panels or panel sections.

[0049] In accordance with the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a fold line can be any substantially linear, although not necessarily straight, form of weakening that facilitates folding therealong. More specifically, but not for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the present disclosure, fold lines include: a score line, such as lines formed with a blunt scoring knife, or the like, which creates a crushed or depressed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness; a cut that extends partially into a material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of cuts that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness; and various combinations of these features. In situations where cutting is used to create a fold line, typically the cutting will not be overly extensive in a manner that might cause a reasonable user to incorrectly consider the fold line to be a tear line.

[0050] As an example, a tear line can include: a slit that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of spaced apart slits that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness, or various combinations of these features. As a more specific example, one type of tear line is in the form of a series of spaced apart slits that extend completely through the material, with adjacent slits being spaced apart slightly so that a nick (e.g., a small somewhat bridging-like piece of the material) is defined between the adjacent slits for typically temporarily connecting the material across the tear line. The nicks are broken during tearing along the tear line. The nicks typically are a relatively small percentage of the tear line, and alternatively the nicks can be omitted from or tom in a tear line such that the tear line is a continuous cut line. That is, it is within the scope of the present disclosure for each of the tear lines to be replaced with a continuous slit, or the like. For example, a cut line can be a continuous slit or could be wider than a slit without departing from the present disclosure.

[0051] The above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels adhered together by glue during erection of the carton embodiments. The term “glue” is intended to encompass all manner of adhesives commonly used to secure carton panels in place.

[0052] The foregoing description of the disclosure illustrates and describes various embodiments. As various changes could be made in the above construction without departing from the scope of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Furthermore, the scope of the present disclosure covers various modifications, combinations, alterations, etc., of the above-described embodiments. Additionally, the disclosure shows and describes only selected embodiments, but various other combinations, modifications, and environments are within the scope of the disclosure as expressed herein, commensurate with the above teachings, and/or within the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. Furthermore, certain features and characteristics of each embodiment may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiments of the disclosure.